Cody Rhodes' potential WWE return and 4 other unexpected stories of 2022 so far

#4: Mickie James storms through one of the biggest forbidden doors in all of professional wrestling

Professional wrestling as a whole was set abuzz on the January 7 2022 episode of Smackdown. WWE announced that IMPACT Knockouts World Champion Mickie James would compete in the 2022 Women's Royal Rumble. This news was especially surprising since James' previous spell with the company ended contentiously.

In the weeks that followed, her appearance was promoted in both promotions, leaving fans wondering if any other talent would cross the divide. Although none eventually did, the hype around the appearance and the crowd reaction she received made it a memorable crossover.

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#3: Shane McMahon is released by WWE much to the shock of professional wrestling fans

The McMahons are majority owners of WWE, and are considered by many to be the first family of professional wrestling. They have been involved in the business for almost 110 years, dating all the way back to Jess McMahon.

Shane McMahon has been an on-screen presence for the better part of 30 years, serving as a referee, authority figure and wrestler. He entered the 2022 Royal Rumble at number 28, making it to the final three before being eliminated by eventual winner Brock Lesnar.

McMahon was set to be heavily featured on the road to WrestleMania 38 before news broke of his quiet release from the company just days after the Rumble. This unexpected development sent the rumor mill swirling with speculation about his next destination.

The former World Champion's next move has not yet been revealed, but if he stays in the business, whatever he decides is sure to be huge news.