5 WWE legends who need to return soon

WWE legends having a spot on any major card has been a subject of much debate over the last decade. While they undeniably help in ticket sales, television viewership, and growth in the general interest, fans have criticized WWE's reliance on the "part-timers" and glorification of the past eras as they feel it's at the expense of the current roster.

There's also no denying that WWE has compromised the momentum of full-time Superstars in favor of part-timers. Regardless, legends play a big role in the legacy of the company and industry and while we agree that WWE should focus on investing in the present and the future, there's always a place for a legend to return and hopefully, put over younger stars.

While the unprecedented pandemic era is unlikely to see the return of many legends (for the simple reason that WWE isn't splashing money right now), there is going to be a time when the crowds return and subsequently, the legends will return for big events as well.

Here are five WWE legends who need to return the most:

#5. Shane McMahon

Shane McMahon at WWE Super ShowDown 2019

Shane McMahon is a name that we haven't seen in nearly a year now. He had a three-and-a-half-year return run in WWE - one where he was the babyface commissioner of SmackDown Live, up until WrestleMania season in 2019, where he turned heel.

Following that, he would have the remainder of his run as a heel, up until Kevin Owens beat him on the SmackDown on FOX premiere to officially end his run in WWE. Despite this, Shane McMahon has reportedly had a backstage presence and we could see a point later this year where he returns for a big match.

He doesn't necessarily need to have a long run like he did last time.

#4. Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar is one Superstar on this list expected back sooner than most. Normally, Lesnar takes a hiatus between WrestleMania and SummerSlam time, but 2019 saw him return early to win the Money in the Bank briefcase, beat Seth Rollins for the Universal Championship, and then lose it back to him in the next PPV - SummerSlam.

While we're not sure whether Lesnar fits into the WWE Championship plans at SummerSlam, Tom Colohue revealed that WWE officials are 'desperate' to book a match between him and Bobby Lashley at The Biggest Party of the Summer.

It would be great to have him back sooner, but given the empty arena situation and the fact that WWE is reportedly only hoping for the return of crowds by the end of summer means that SummerSlam could be the earliest we see Brock Lesnar.

One can't deny the lack of star power on the WWE roster right now. Adding Lesnar to the mix would be big for programming, especially if he's in a non-title feud.

#3. Triple H

Triple H hasn't been seen competing in a ring since Super ShowDown 2019, where he lost to former Evolution stablemate Randy Orton. Just a couple of months before, he retired another Evolution member and old rival Batista, ending his legendary career in a No Holds Barred Match.

While there was no crowd at WrestleMania 36, Triple H would have been absent from the crowd regardless, simply because it appears as if he isn't "needed" as a marquee name on the card anymore.

We respect Triple H's stance, as he's been more invested in the future with NXT. Despite this, he's always going to have a place on whichever card he's a part of. He's done a great job in helping establish multiple stars on the roster and that would be his best role in the remaining years as well.

The question is how long Triple H plans to stick around as an in-ring performer. He seems to be getting busier in the office, which gives him lesser time to perform. Regardless, he'd be a great name to have back.

#2. John Cena

John Cena entering the Firefly Fun House

John Cena's "polarizing" status left him years ago when he decided to transition into a part-timer. While fans will always love to sing "John Cena sucks" as he enters, it's become a sign of endearment rather than malice.

Cena's appearances have significantly decreased over the years, with the 16-time World Champion seemingly busier by the year. His career as an actor has taken off, but he's made it no secret that he still loves WWE and will continue to appear until they tell him that he's not needed.

Either way, John Cena is the kind of Superstar who always proves that there are levels to the game. When it comes to being an all-round Superstar, he's on top of the totem pole as one of the greatest of all time.

His presence would make a big difference to WWE programming.

#1. The Undertaker

This may have been an unusual entry to this list anytime pre-April. However, The Undertaker's change in gimmick and excellent Boneyard match against AJ Styles meant that fans were hyped about seeing The Undertaker again.

In all honesty, a change in character was desperately needed for The Undertaker. While The Deadman gimmick will always be the biggest part of his legacy, the change in character was something that needed to be done a long time ago.

Instead, he had a few years where he hardly had any memorable moments or matches and had to deal with several nagging injuries. The documentary The Last Ride on the WWE Network gives a great insight into why he continued despite all the physical struggle and constant criticism.

Ultimately, it looks like he could be sticking around for a while longer and if he's continuing with this new gimmick, then there's no doubt that he'll make a big difference with his appearances. The anticipation of seeing the "new" Undertaker along would create enough hype for his match.