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'This Is So Surreal': Former WWE Star Zach Gowen Makes His AEW Debut

Originally posted on The Sportster | By Ethan Schlabaugh | Last updated May 15, 2025 9:36 AM ET

Ricochet got himself into a match with Zach Gowen.
This was Gowen's return to television after 22 years.
Fans show love for Gowen's performance.

Ricochet's heel work in AEW has seen him become hated by not just the wrestlers on the AEW roster, but also the live audience in the crowd. Most recently, one of those viewers Ricochet got some heat with was none other than Zach Gowen, known for his work in WWE from the early 2000s. Gowen would have an interaction with Ricochet on-screen, leading to AEW announcing Gowen getting into the ring and facing Ricochet on Dynamite tonight.

While Zach hasn't made a television appearance since his work in the WWE from 2003, he has been consistent in the ring over the many years, mostly wrestling for JCW and other independent promotions.

Ricochet Vs. Gowen

Zach Gowen with his prosthetic leg!Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & MAX@KingRicochet | @ZachGowen pic.twitter.com/Kn7gSj6JcV— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 15, 2025

Ricochet would come out to the ring holding Zach Gowen's prosthetic leg, with Gowen coming out to a pretty big pop from the crowd. The match wasn't too long, but it gave fans a good chance to see how Gowen is in the ring for anyone who hasn't been keeping up with his career.

There were a few spots that made it seem like Gowen was going to sneak the win, getting the fans pretty excited. He and Ricochet would go seven minutes and Ricochet was able to secure a pin after some referee mishaps happened. Mark Briscoe ran out to the ring afterward, stopping Ricochet from doing anything after the match.

Fans Seem To Have Missed Zach

I haven’t been on a national tv wrestling program in 22 years. Thank you to those that remembered me!!! I haven’t forgotten about yall either. The magic of professional wrestling is still very much alive in my soul and I’m so grateful I get to share that once again — Zach Gowen (@ZachGowen) May 9, 2025

As mentioned, the crowd reaction to Gowen's entrance and any of the hope spots he had during the match were pretty loud, and it looks as if fan reception online isn't much different. Some posts would make jabs at the other major promotion's World Heavyweight Champion, saying that Gowen at his age and with one leg is a better wrestler than the champion.

Other posts didn't trash anyone else, but just instead talked about how great Gowen looked and that for such a short match, it was still a fun performance and great to see Zach in the ring after so long.

This article first appeared on The Sportster and was syndicated with permission.

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