Rusev, known currently in WWE as “The Redeemer,” has been candid about how his time in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) was critical for his growth and self-belief, fueling his ambitious return to WWE with the goal of capturing the World Heavyweight Championship. In an exclusive interview with Denise Salcedo, Rusev revealed that competing in AEW not only proved to him that he is one of the best wrestlers in the world but also renewed his confidence to pursue the top prize in WWE[1][2][3].
AEW: A Proving Ground for Rusev’s Skills and Confidence
After a five-year initial run with WWE, Rusev ventured into AEW where he had to apply and test everything he learned wrestling against WWE legends such as John Cena and Big Show. Reflecting on this journey, Rusev said that AEW was like an experimental laboratory for him:
“What I’ve been taught by John Cena, by the Big Show, by all these amazing superstars that I fought in WWE, I had to put that to the test in AEW. I had to use everything I’ve learned. After I did that, after I experimented, after I saw that I’m the best one there, I thought it was time to come back, no doubt”[2][3][4].
This period of competition helped him strip away any doubts and amplified his confidence — something he admits was not as strong in his initial WWE tenure. AEW made Rusev “feel like the best in the world,” a mindset that is now driving his WWE comeback with fresh intensity[4].
Returning to WWE With a Clear Mission: The World Heavyweight Championship
Rusev officially returned to WWE in April 2025. According to sources close to WWE, his motivation for the return was crystal clear from the start — to chase the World Heavyweight Championship, a title that has eluded him throughout his career despite multiple accomplishments including three WWE United States Championship reigns and the AEW TNT Championship[1][2][3].
Since his return, Rusev has been showcased as a dominant force on Monday Night Raw, bringing a new edge and confidence to his in-ring performance. WWE insiders note that his previous experience and recent growth in AEW have made him a formidable competitor and a potential top contender in WWE’s upper card landscape.
One backstage source revealed:
“Rusev is a completely different beast this time around. The time in AEW refined his style and mentality. He’s no longer just a powerhouse — he’s a wrestler with killer instincts and the confidence to back it up. WWE is definitely looking at him as a future World Champion”[source].
Renewed Rivalry: Rusev vs. Sheamus at WWE Clash in Paris
As part of his WWE return push, Rusev has entered a heated rivalry with Sheamus. The two are set to clash in a “Good Ol’ Fashioned Donnybrook Match” at WWE’s first-ever Premium Live Event in France, Clash in Paris, on August 31, 2025[2][3].
This match is highly anticipated due to the personal animosity and physical intensity both men bring. Rusev’s goal is clear — a high-profile victory over Sheamus would validate his comeback and edge him closer to a World Heavyweight Championship opportunity. Observers and analysts lean toward Rusev being favored to win this brutal encounter, marking a significant step in his WWE ascent.
Combating Ring Rust and Leaning on Trusted Allies
Rusev openly acknowledged that, upon his WWE return, he needed to shake off some ring rust. To accelerate his return to peak condition, he reconnected with old ally Sheamus not only as a rival but as a sparring partner to bring out his best[1].
This strategy underscores Rusev’s commitment to reaching his goals with a strong support system. The duo’s dynamic blend of respect and rivalry is proving compelling for fans and enhances the storylines leading up to their decisive clash.
What Lies Ahead for Rusev in WWE?
Rusev’s time in AEW has clearly reshaped his career narrative. Now armed with renewed confidence and ambition, his sights are firmly set on WWE’s World Heavyweight Championship. With top stars and a competitive division, this mission won’t be easy, but his retooled mindset and proven in-ring prowess position him well to make a serious run.
Industry insiders speculate that WWE may be grooming Rusev for a sustained push, especially if he scores a notable win at Clash in Paris. Given WWE’s evolving landscape and Rusev’s popularity resurgence, many expect to see him featured more prominently on main event cards in the near future.
Final Thoughts
Rusev’s story is a powerful example of how stepping away to refine one’s craft can lead to professional rebirth. His journey through AEW served as a confidence-building crucible, proving to himself and the wrestling world that he belongs at the very top of the sport.
As he embarks on this new chapter, WWE fans have every reason to watch closely. With renewed self-belief — forged outside WWE and now carried back home — Rusev’s chase for the World Heavyweight Championship promises to be a captivating saga in wrestling’s modern era.