Former WWE Champion Dolph Ziggler Makes Surprise Return to 'RAW' After One Year... MSG Fans Go Wild

Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler made a surprise return to Monday Night Raw at Madison Square Garden (MSG) in New York on November 17 (local time), thrilling the fans. It was his first appearance in the WWE ring under the name 'Dolph Ziggler' in about 1 year and 2 months since being released from WWE in September 2023.

'Last Time Is Now' Tournament Mystery Participant

Ziggler appeared as a mystery participant in the 'Last Time Is Now' tournament, which determines the opponent for John Cena in his retirement match.

On that day, with the identity of Solo Sikoa's opponent unknown, the familiar theme song of Ziggler echoed through MSG, filling it with tremendous cheers. After leaving WWE, he had been performing under his real name, Nic Nemeth, but on this day he returned to using the ring name 'Dolph Ziggler.'

In the match, Ziggler showcased his dazzling skills and signature move, Zig Zag, demonstrating that he still has it. However, he unfortunately lost after being hit by Sikoa's Samoan Spike, eliminating him from the tournament.

Achieving 'Triple Crown' Outside WWE

Even after leaving WWE, Ziggler has been active on the indie scene and in major promotions as 'Nic Nemeth.'

• TNA Wrestling: After debuting in TNA in January 2024, he won the TNA World Championship at Slammiversary in July of the same year.

• NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling): In February 2024, he defeated David Finlay to capture the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship.

• AAA: In April, he won the AAA Mega Championship at TripleMania XXXII, achieving the remarkable feat of holding titles from all three major promotions outside WWE.

It is reported that he maintained a tight schedule, including TNA's Turning Point special, right up until his WWE return.

High Possibility of Short-Term Appearances... Attention Focused on Future Moves

Born in 1980, Ziggler has been active in WWE for 19 years since his re-debut as 'Dolph Ziggler' in 2008, winning multiple titles including the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

It is still unclear whether this return is a one-time event or a long-term contract. According to industry sources like Fightful Select, Ziggler is currently not under a formal contract with WWE and is likely to be making short-term appearances, similar to Matt Cardona (Zack Ryder), who appeared on SmackDown a week ago. He is known to prefer a flexible schedule on the indie scene, including TNA.

Following Ziggler's return, new merchandise was released at the WWE Shop, receiving a warm response from fans. John Cena's retirement match is set to be determined at the 'Saturday Night Main Event' on December 13, and fans are focusing their attention on Ziggler's future moves in WWE.