In a significant development within the wrestling world, WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley has openly expressed his interest in returning to WWE, specifically under the new leadership regime of Triple H. This interest comes at a pivotal time for WWE, as the company undergoes transformative changes following the departure of its long-standing leader, Vince McMahon.
In a revealing interview with WhatCulture, D-Von Dudley detailed his thoughts on the current shifts happening within WWE. Dudley, a seasoned veteran of the ring and a respected former producer, reminisced about his experiences during the Vince McMahon era, acknowledging its challenges but also the fulfillment it brought. “Yes, but I haven’t done the Triple H era. I’ve been through the Vince era, but I would love to get a crack at…maybe even possibly doing the Triple H era, so to speak. You never know. I had fun when I was there, even during the Vince era. At times, it was extremely stressful, but we got through it and did what we had to do. But I never just got a chance to feel that new era,” Dudley stated.
The timing of Dudley’s potential return is influenced heavily by recent events within WWE. Vince McMahon resigned from all duties within WWE and its parent company, TKO, on January 26th, amid serious allegations and a lawsuit that seeks to void a previous NDA and claim financial damages. This resignation marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter led by Triple H, McMahon’s son-in-law and the newly minted Chief Content Officer.
Dudley’s contemplation of a return underlines a broader sentiment echoed by several prominent figures in the wrestling community, who have praised Triple H’s leadership style. His longtime tag team partner Bully Ray referred to the post-McMahon period as a time when a “black cloud” was lifted from the company. Similarly, WWE commentator Corey Graves found Triple H’s approach “refreshing,” particularly in how it grants performers more creative freedom.
Moreover, the legendary Undertaker has also commented positively on the change in WWE’s atmosphere since Triple H assumed official control, further legitimizing the positive outlook on the new leadership.
When asked about his willingness to return to the wrestling giant, Dudley was open and optimistic, stating, “It’s an opportunity that, if it presents itself, so be it. I’m not gonna sit here and not listen and make a business decision. There is no beef on my part with WWE. I went on Twitter and I announced that, this and that. I had fun with everybody that I worked with, whether it was in the ring or outside the ring, had no issues with management or anything. It was just time to part ways and we did.”
Currently, D-Von Dudley remains affiliated with WWE under a Legends contract, which he renewed in September 2023. This contractual tie keeps him connected to WWE, potentially smoothing the path should he decide to re-engage more directly with the company’s operations or talent development under Triple H’s leadership.
As WWE continues to navigate its new trajectory, the interest of revered veterans like D-Von Dudley in rejoining the company not only speaks volumes about the perceived shifts in leadership quality but also hints at an exciting future for the company and its legions of fans worldwide.