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Huge WWE Name Returns on 'Monday Night Raw' After Brief Absence

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Fernando Quiles Jr. | Last updated May 5, 2025 10:51 PM ET

A massive former WWE champion made his return to "Monday Night Raw."

The go-home edition of "WWE Raw" prior to "Backlash 2025" featured a backstage segment with Grayson Waller, Adam Pearce, and Austin Theory. Waller wasn't pleased with being booked against a certain star who initially wasn't revealed to the audience. Theory accepted the match instead without knowing who he'd go up against.

When Theory was in the ring, he heard a familiar theme song. Theory's mystery opponent was none other than Sheamus, who returned to action after being inactive since a live event in late March. This marked Sheamus' first match on "Monday Night Raw" since January.

He's BACK, fella!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/cDQyuoY8Gs
— WWE (@WWE) May 6, 2025

Sheamus was in control for most of the match. He dove onto Theory outside of the ring before popping him with a knee strike. The former world champion then connected with a Brogue Kick for the victory.

The big story coming out of the match is the continued turmoil between Theory and Waller. Ever since losing the WWE Tag Team Championship, Waller and Theory haven't been on the same page. While Theory wants to be embraced by the fans, Waller continues to pull him away from the WWE Universe.

Waller has also used Theory to avoid putting himself in bad situations. Many fans feel a split between the two has been long overdue. Theory hasn't enjoyed singles success since his second run as the WWE United States Champion ended.

Time will tell when WWE's creative team will go through with dissolving the team of Theory and Waller. For now, the two continue to argue on a weekly basis.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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