50 Things You Learn Binge-Watching Every WWE Royal Rumble
25. Mr. Perfect’s 2002 Return = Legit Surprise
Back injuries had taken their toll on another superworker by the turn of the new millennium. Curt Hennig wrestled his last match for WCW in May 2000, and only took select bookings for groups like All Japan and on the indy scene in 2001. He was never really a name that came up amongst fans when discussing WCW workers who could play a part in the WWF's invasion angle either.
That's why it was so pleasing to see Curt return to his Mr. Perfect roots during the 2002 Rumble. His iconic entrance music blasted out and everyone cheered. Some returns seem dumb but work out, but this wasn't one of those; fans in Atlanta were only too happy to welcome Hennig "home". He entered the match as #25, and rolled back the years to enter a fine 15-minute performance that took everyone by surprise. Speaking of which, Perfect even made it to the final four of the match and helped eliminate Steve Austin before being punted by Triple H.
What a lofty spot for someone the WWF didn't have concrete plans for. Nobody actually knew just how well Hennig's body would hold up to a rigorous road schedule, or how many more matches he had left in the tank full stop. Fellow favourites like Goldust and The Godfather also had their say during '02's Rumble, but nothing came close to matching Curt's comeback and showing.
He looked like he hadn't missed a step. It was like 1991 all over again, and federation fans clearly loved it. You will too - that's true even when knowing precisely when Perfect is coming through that curtain in all his gum-spitting, cocky glory.