Rob Van Dam shocked the wrestling world with a surprise return at MLW Battle Riot VII, but his big comeback didnt end on a high note. The former WWE and ECW legend entered the 40-man Rumble-style match at No. 40 to a massive reactionbut he left the ring limping.
During the closing stretch of the match, Van Dam teamed with MLW World Champion Matt Riddle to eliminate newcomers Dijak and Bishop Dyer. But after landing a Rolling Thunder and heading to the top rope for a Five Star Frog Splash, RVD was shoved off the turnbuckle by Riddle and hit the floormarking the end of his night and a painful exit.
The landing did more than just cost him the match. RVD reportedly suffered an ankle injury during the spot and looked visibly shaken after the fall. While fans feared the worst, word coming out of MLW is that he was feeling significantly better by the following day.
Despite the setback, Van Dams appearance was one of the biggest moments of the night. It marked his first time competing in MLW and capped off a chaotic Battle Riot that saw Matt Riddle not only enter at No. 25 but also successfully defend his MLW World Title to become the first-ever back-to-back winner.
The match also featured debuts from former WWE stars Chris Adonis and Raj Dhesi (formerly Jinder Mahal), and a surprise return from Alex Hammerstone, who entered at No. 1. Elsewhere on the card, Shoko Nakajima captured the MLW Featherweight Title, and Mistico vacated the Middleweight Championship before Ikuro Kwon attacked Cesar Duran and stole the belt.
Still, it was RVDs surprise appearanceand painful exitthat has fans talking today. The wrestling legend may have walked out of MLW hurt, but he reminded everyone that even at this stage of his career, he can still bring the energyand take the bumps.
Were you surprised to see RVD show up in MLW? Do you think hell stick around after the injury? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
