Top six WWE stars who could return on SmackDown after Clash in Paris; AJ Lee, Cody Rhodes & more

WWE SmackDown after Clash in Paris can be the sight of some shocking returns

The events leading up to the WWE Clash in Paris PLE and the aftermath have hinted at a major shift in the company’s landscape.

One of the top shifts could be the shocking returns of top WWE superstars on this week’s episode of SmackDown in Chicago, Illinois. Here is a look at the top six possibilities who could shock the audience with their resurgence:

6. Chad Gable

Chad Gable had been captivating the audience with his ‘El Grande Americano’ and ‘Leader of the American Made’ personas simultaneously.

However, he took a hiatus to deal with a shoulder injury. A few months have passed, and there could be a chance for Gable to don his mask once again and make a return, this time on SmackDown, as RAW already has an El Grande Americano of its own right now.

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5. Rey Mysterio

Rey Mysterio suffered a groin injury, which led to Rey Fenix replacing him for his WrestleMania 41 match. While Mysterio has made outside appearances in AAA, this week’s SmackDown after Clash in Paris could see his comeback to the ring for a match to captivate the fans like only he can.

4. Ilja Dragunov

Ilja Dragunov’s rise on the WWE main roster was derailed by an unfortunate ACL injury at a live event last year. However, recent reports have hinted at the fact that The Mad Dragon has been cleared for in-ring action.

Should that be true, he could re-emerge on the scene as soon as this week’s edition of SmackDown to begin his journey once again.

3. Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes was assaulted by Drew McIntyre a few weeks ago on SmackDown, writing him off television to film for the upcoming Street Fighter film.

With reports of his title match against McIntyre set for Wrestlepalooza, Rhodes could make his return to the blue brand this week to begin their feud leading up to the event.

Also Read: All superstars confirmed for WWE SmackDown (September 5, 2025): John Cena, CM Punk & more

2. Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar has been rumored to battle John Cena at Wrestlepalooza. With Cena appearing on this week’s episode of SmackDown, he could turn his attention to The Beast. This could lead to an unannounced and shocking return this week that would garner a huge pop and be a memorable sight to witness.

1. AJ Lee

One of the biggest and most shocking returns in WWE history, rumored for SmackDown in Chicago, is AJ Lee. Ever since the conclusion of WWE Clash in Paris and the aftermath on RAW, there have been major hints pointing to her comeback after a decade.

With Lee’s husband and hometown hero, CM Punk‘s appearance confirmed, there is a huge possibility that he brings back his wife to counter his rivals, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch.

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