6 Former WWE stars who are surprisingly open to a return

Over the past year, WWE has released in excess of 80 wrestlers due to budget cuts. Being let go isn't the end for these performers as they can always make a name for themselves in the thriving professional wrestling landscape and return to the world's biggest promotion with a fresh coat of paint.

Several superstars have been enticed to jump ship to AEW, which has played an integral role in revitalizing the industry. However, once their contracts are done, they may be tempted to return to WWE. The presence of two massive companies is a boon for wrestlers, who can leverage them against each other.

Moving back and forth will not only keep the performers fresh but also create a sense of intrigue around both products.

With that being said, here are 5 former WWE Superstars who are open to returning:

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#6 Could Jon Moxley make a surprise return to WWE?

Jon Moxley -- who previously wrestled as Dean Ambrose -- is a significant part of WWE history due to his days as a member of The Shield. The Hounds of Justice were incredibly popular during their run, and all three members of the group went on to become world champions.

However, Moxley's run as a singles act was underwhelming. Despite showing glimpses of promise, he left WWE in 2019 after growing weary of playing a character that couldn't be taken seriously. He also felt shackled by the overly-scripted product.

He seems to be much happier in AEW, where he's afforded more creative leeway and is one of the biggest stars in the promotion. But, much to everyone's surprise, Moxley refused to rule out a return to WWE during an interview with Bleacher Report.

“You gotta say never say never, because you don’t want to run back what you said years later because you don’t know what’ll happen. Just the creation of AEW was so vital to the wrestling industry, and that’s part of the reason why I’m so proud to be a part of it. I wouldn’t rule out ever doing business with them again, we had a mutually beneficial relationship for a long time.”

Once he finishes his stint with AEW, a return to WWE might just be the best thing for Jon Moxley. Roman Reigns, his old buddy from The Shield, might just be the biggest star in professional wrestling today, and the two of them could draw a lot of money in a high-profile feud.

#5 Santino Marella wants to become a WWE commentator

Santino Marella's run as a full-time WWE Superstar came to an end in 2016, when he was released by the company. He's returned for a few appearances since then, most notably as the Santina Marella character in the 2020 Women's Royal Rumble.

The Milan Miracle now wants to try his hand at being a commentator, with the caveat being that he wants to use his real name -- Anthony Carelli. He added that WWE would be his company of choice during an interview with Back Page Sports.

“I do want to go back into the business but as a commentator. I would have to be Anthony Carelli because I don’t want to do commentary as Santino. I think there are going to be opportunities for me post-COVID with one of the major companies. I always want to go to WWE first because they changed my life and I’m loyal, but if they don’t have an opportunity, I’ll go somewhere else," said Marella.

Marella might need to prove himself as a commentator for other promotions before he lands a gig with WWE.

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#4 Mark Henry has plenty to offer behind the scenes

Mark Henry joined AEW as a coach and analyst after not receiving the backstage role he was looking for in WWE. During an episode of Busted Open Radio, The World's Strongest Man revealed that Vince McMahon might be interested in re-signing him after three years.

"I was like, 'Vince, I'm tired of waiting, I'm gonna take this job. I want to get experience, and I want to prove to you and everybody else that I can do this.' And he said, 'You know what, Mark, I believe you will, and I'm sure we'll come looking for you in three years, " said Henry.

Henry's experience is invaluable, and he can be a great influence on young wrestlers. WWE could possibly look to bring him back when the opportunity arises.

#3 and #2 Is a WWE return on the cards for Mike and Maria Kanellis?

Mike and Maria Kanellis were released from WWE in April 2020, shortly after the birth of their second child.

Even though they'd be forgiven for having hard feelings, Maria Kanellis surprisingly stated that she and her husband would be open to a WWE return, provided her contract had a bigger guarantee.

"I'm sure that Mike will at some point. That’s just how that company rolls. For me, there would have to be some guaranteed money. I've always done the contracts where it's like you know, there's a downside but that's not guaranteed and two tiny ones. With how many years I've spent in this industry and I gave WWE over 8 years of my life. I think there'd have to be some guaranteed money. I don't know. I'm open to anything, wrestling wise. It's not at the forefront of my mind," said Kanellis.

Maria Kanellis has also said that she's done with in-ring competition, but she could still find a place on television as a manager.

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#1 Bryan Danielson is an asset to any promotion

Arguably the most beloved WWE Superstar since Stone Cold Steve Austin, Bryan Danielson parted ways with the company this year after a legendary run. He joined AEW and debuted at the All Out pay-per-view, returning to his roots as The American Dragon.

Even though Danielson is enjoying the opportunity to play a different character and wrestle a new set of opponents, he's admitted that he has a great relationship with Vince McMahon. It wouldn't come as a surprise to anyone if he returned to WWE one day.

"Thank you to the Big Man, who I know hates to be acknowledged. I won’t say much, but thank you for the conversations, the life lessons [about both what to do and what not to do], and the best hug I’ve ever received. I wish more people could see you how I see you," wrote Danielson.

Danielson handled his departure from WWE in a smooth and professional manner. A report from Fightul Select stated that the promotion would love to have him back.