5 Unlikely stars who could return to WWE in 2026

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#5. Tessa Blanchard

Tessa Blanchard’s last appearance in the Stamford-based promotion was on July 13, 2017. She returned as part of the Mae Young Classic, but was eliminated by Kairi Sane in the first round of the tournament.

However, there’s a possibility that Blanchard might return in 2026. Since she is currently working with TNA, the ongoing talent exchange program between WWE and the Nashville-based promotion makes her potential return to the global juggernaut more likely.

#4. Alberto Del Rio

This is perhaps the most polarizing name on this list. While authorities have historically been adamant about not rehiring Alberto Del Rio due to past legal troubles and backstage friction, 2025 changed the math.

With WWE’s acquisition of AAA Lucha Libre, the company effectively inherited Del Rio’s (now Alberto El Patrón) contract. However, he soon left the Mexican promotion after the aforementioned acquisition.

While he remains a “persona non grata” to many fans, his veteran presence and established history as a multi-time WWE Champion make him a valuable backup option. It’s unlikely, but in the Triple H era, even the possibility of the controversial star returning is not out of question.

#3. Wes Lee

NXT fans were heartbroken when Wes Lee was surprisingly released in October this year. Following this release, The Kardiac Kid wasted no time returning to his roots, appearing in TNA to reunite with The Rascalz.

However, Lee’s departure felt more like a “see you later” than a “goodbye.” With the WWE-TNA partnership now a multi-year deal, 2026 could see Wes Lee return for a crossover program, or even a full-time re-signing.

A story where he invades NXT, representing TNA, would write itself.

#2. Frankie Kazarian

As AJ Styles prepares for his final year in the ring in 2026, The Phenomenal One has made it clear that he wants to settle old scores. One name at the top of that list is Frankie Kazarian.

Kazarian is currently a top player in TNA, but both he and Styles have publicly lobbied for a final encounter to celebrate their several decade-long friendship and rivalry.

Given the TNA crossover, Kazarian appearing on a WWE PLE and running it back with The Phenomenal One is a dream that is now realistically possible.

#1. Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler could be back for a WWE retirement match

At 76 years old and having survived several health scares in recent years, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler is likely to return in 2026.

He suffered a third stroke in September this year, having previously suffered the same ordeal in 2023 and in 2012 during an edition of Monday Night RAW. Despite his health setbacks, The King recently told fans he still feels he has one more match left in him.

The company often brings back stars for nostalgic moments that make fans feel good, and Lawler is the soul of Memphis wrestling. Whether it’s a surprise entry in the 2026 Royal Rumble or a short, protected cinematic match, seeing the crown and the cape one last time would be the ultimate tribute to a career that has spanned over half a century.

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