This week in WWE history (Jan 17-23) - Batista Returns, Ric Flair wins The WWE Championship in The Royal Rumble 

#3. Batista returns to WWE - January 20th, 2014

Batista made his triumphant return to WWE on Monday Night RAW back in January 2014, and he quickly declared himself for the Royal Rumble Match.

The Animal left the company in 2010, but he was back with a vengeance. In 2014, he was hoping to win the annual Royal Rumble Match and punch his ticket to WrestleMania. That's exactly what The Animal did; he won the match and went on to main-event the biggest show of the year alongside Randy Orton and Daniel Bryan.

The crowd's negative reaction forced Batista to turn heel. During a brief Evolution reunion, Batista, Orton and Triple H feuded with The Shield. But it wasn't long before The Aminal opted to quit the company once again. Batista has since found success outside of the company, as he is one of many former wrestlers who have transitioned into Hollywood.

Also on this day, Triple H won the 2002 Royal Rumble Match by last eliminating Kurt Angle. The Game entered at number 22 and lasted 23 minutes before he clinched the victory for the first time in his career.

It's also worth noting that at almost 70 minutes, the 2002 Royal Rumble Match is still the longest 30-man bout in WWE history.