
With the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble fast approaching, Cody Rhodes has made it clear he would love to see a WWE legend step back into the ring for the highly anticipated match. The American Nightmare recently expressed his desire to see Michelle McCool make a surprise return at the event.
Cody Rhodes Believes Michelle McCool “Still Got It”
In a backstage video posted by Jackie Redmond on Instagram, Rhodes was asked which superstar he would like to see enter the Women’s Royal Rumble this year. Without hesitation, he named Michelle McCool, a former WWE Women’s Champion and Divas Champion, praising her in-ring ability:
“Michelle McCool. [She looks like she can still go, right?] Yeah, she’s got it. She’s mean. She’s mean.”
With stars like Liv Morgan, Bianca Belair, and Charlotte Flair already confirmed for the match, WWE could be planning additional surprises. Reports have hinted at possible returns from legends like Trish Stratus, but Cody Rhodes seems to believe McCool would be a perfect addition.
Michelle McCool Addresses Potential WWE Return
McCool has competed in three Women’s Royal Rumble matches over the past seven years, with her most recent appearance in 2023, where she lasted nearly 14 minutes before being eliminated by Rhea Ripley.
While the 45-year-old hasn’t had any “serious talks” with WWE about a return, she recently stated on X (formerly Twitter) that she is confident she could still compete at a high level.
REAL TALK – since retiring, I’ve never been in any “serious talks” with anyone about another run….not saying it wouldn’t be nice?!?! Confident I can go, so here’s my question:
— McCool (@McCoolMichelleL) January 26, 2025
All ya gotta do is “declare yourself these days for the Rumble?!?” #FLAWLESS 😂💙😂
Sorry y’all, saw… pic.twitter.com/5NMm1pzbYg
With Triple H leading creative and past legends making surprise returns, could McCool be a last-minute entrant in this year’s Royal Rumble? Fans will have to wait until Saturday to find out!