What’s the story?
Bulgarian wrestler Rusev made the switch to Smackdown LIVE as a part of the Superstar Shakeup but he hasn’t made an appearance for the blue brand yet. Two weeks ago, Rusev stated that he will appear on Tuesday nights but only if he is given a championship match at the Money in the Bank PPV.
There has been no official response to that demand from either Shane McMahon or Daniel Bryan.
In case you didn’t know...
Rusev found himself on the shelf after injuring his shoulder in March. He underwent surgery and was expected to return within 2-4 months. Rusev's last match was against Big Show at Fastlane.
On April 25, Rusev stated in a video that he is not very fond of Daniel Bryan or Shane McMahon and will go to Smackdown only if he receives a title shot at the Money in the Bank PPV. He further threatened that if he doesn’t get what he desires, he will pack his bags and leave for Bulgaria.
The heart of the matter
The former United States Champion stated in a recent tweet that he didn’t like the nonchalant attitude of Shane McMahon towards his demand of a championship match and will return to Smackdown LIVE to fetch an answer for the same.
What’s next?
It looks like Rusev has recovered from his injury and is ready to return in a wrestling capacity. It will be interesting to see where the Bulgarian Brute’s quest for a championship match will lead him.
Author’s Take
Rusev could prove to be the biggest beneficiary coming out of the Superstar Shakeup. The face turn of AJ Styles and departure of Bray Wyatt has left Smackdown LIVE craving for top tier heels. Though the blue brand is in possession of Kevin Owens and they are also trying to transform Jinder Mahal into a bigger name, they still need more heels to feud with a wide array of babyfaces.
Rusev could be just the solution for Smackdown. He is coming out of an injury which means he is fresh, and with Lana no longer accompanying him for his matches, this provides scope to reinvent his gimmick.
I am also of the opinion that Rusev should win the WWE Championship at least once before the upcoming Wrestlemania as he has proven his mettle both in and out of the ring. Putting the title on the Bulgarian would also provide WWE a top level pure heel superstar which is so rare nowadays.
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