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Since Triple H took over WWE creative, the company has brought back many previously released stars. Some of the top names who returned include Bray Wyatt, Braun Strowman, Karrion Kross, Shawn Spears, Bronson Reed, Johnny Gargano, and Chelsea Green, among others.
We're only three months into 2025, and there have been plenty of comebacks. On that note, let's look at five stars who recently returned to the company:
#1. & #2. The Hardy Boyz
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Matt and Jeff Hardy are certified legends and future Hall of Famers. They are currently signed to TNA Wrestling and are the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions. They surprised the wrestling world last month when they accepted a challenge from No Quarter Catch Crew.
The Hardy Boyz successfully defended their titles against NQCC on the February 25th episode of NXT. They also defeated NXT Tag Team Champions Axiom and Nathan Frazer to retain their championship at Roadblock earlier this month. Although they haven't officially signed up with the Stamford-based promotion and only returned through the partnership between WWE and TNA, it was still great to see The Hardy Boyz back in a WWE ring.
#3. WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella
Nikki Bella retired in October 2018 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame two years later alongside her twin sister Brie Bella. The Bellas returned as surprise entrants in the 2022 Women's Royal Rumble and continued to serve as ambassadors for the company until March 2023.
Nikki made another surprise appearance at the 2025 Royal Rumble. She was the final entrant, lasting three minutes as part of the final four with Nia Jax, Charlotte Flair, and Roxanne Perez.
#4. Santino Marella
Just like The Hardy Boyz, Santino Marella is signed with TNA Wrestling. Marella serves as the on-screen director authority under his real name, Anthony Carelli. His daughter, Arianna Grace, is part of the NXT roster.
Due to WWE and TNA's recent partnership, Marella was able to return in a segment at NXT Vengeance Day. He shared the screen with Arianna and NXT General Manager Ava. The former Intercontinental Champion also made the match between Fraxiom and The Hardys official for Roadblock.
#5. Timothy Thatcher
Timothy Thatcher technically returned to the company late last year as a trainer under the WWE ID program. Thatcher wrestled in the company from 2020 to 2022, mainly performing on the NXT brand. Since then, he has appeared for Pro Wrestling Noah, Major League Wrestling, and All Elite Wrestling.
However, it would take him four months to return to television. He wrestled on the March 26 episode of Evolve, losing to "Super" Sean Legacy. It's unclear if he'll be a trainer or make his way back to the ring under his new deal.
