CJ Perry, widely known to WWE fans as Lana, has finally spoken candidly about her recent return to WWE under a WWE Legends contract. This move, marking her official re-association with the company after several years away, comes alongside her husband and former WWE star Rusev’s high-profile return to WWE on a two-year deal. Lana’s Legends deal signals a unique chapter in her career, balancing her legacy status with renewed WWE involvement.
Lana’s Return: More Than Just a Contract
Lana’s return to WWE under the WWE Legends contract, a tier of agreement often offered to respected former talent, confirms that the company continues to recognize her significant contributions. Although not signed to a traditional active talent contract, this deal allows Lana the flexibility to appear in WWE programming and events, preserving her connection to the industry while exploring broader opportunities.
CJ Perry confirmed the deal publicly for the first time in April 2025 through a statement explaining the close planning that preceded the signing. She shared, “We have been cooking this up from our Bulgarian kitchen since the day we left, and with the help of Paradigm, we were able to make this a reality! Machka Crush.” The statement underscores the strategic nature of the agreement and her excitement about collaborating once again with WWE and her husband in the wrestling world[3][4].
Context: Lana and Rusev’s WWE Journey
Lana first joined WWE in 2013 and built her reputation primarily as Rusev’s manager, developing a distinctive on-screen character that connected deeply with fans. Her original run in WWE lasted until her release in June 2021. Post-WWE, Lana briefly appeared in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) between September 2023 and April 2024, showcasing her versatility beyond WWE’s scripted environment[1][2].
Meanwhile, Rusev, under the ring name Miro in AEW, was released in early 2025. Shortly afterward, he made a striking return to WWE on the Raw after WrestleMania 41, attacking Alpha Academy in his first major appearance since his departure. His two-year contract aligns with a renewed push, aiming to regain top status in WWE’s hierarchy[3][5][6].
What the WWE Legends Deal Means for Lana
A WWE Legends contract traditionally recognizes the legacy and contributions of former wrestlers without obligating them to regular in-ring competition or weekly show appearances. This type of agreement can include various roles such as guest appearances, commentary, backstage ambassador duties, or even occasional wrestling spots, offering talent like Lana a foothold to shape their WWE involvement on their terms[2][7].
Industry insiders suggest Lana’s signing aims to create programming synergy with Rusev’s return. According to a WWE insider, “Lana’s Legends contract is less about active competition and more about leveraging her star power and connection with Rusev to keep storylines fresh. WWE sees value in pairing them for promos, special events, and possibly non-wrestling roles.” This approach aligns with WWE’s recent trend of honoring veteran talents while maximizing their brand impact without demanding full-time schedules.
The Role of Paradigm Talent Agency
Both Lana and Rusev’s return deals were negotiated by Paradigm Talent Agency, a prominent firm responsible for managing many leading wrestling talents. Paradigm’s involvement highlights a strategic career planning effort that leverages both stars’ existing popularity and legacy appeal.
CJ Perry and Rusev’s joint deal was characterized by a collaborative approach. Perry noted the agency’s role in making the deal happen, enabling them to ‘make this a reality’ after months of discussions. Such professional representation often facilitates smoother transitions back into WWE, ensuring beneficial contract terms and creative control[3][5].
Potential Future for Lana in WWE
With her Legends deal in place, Lana could become a multi-dimensional presence within WWE. Her prior skills as a manager, on-screen personality, and occasional wrestler open diverse avenues such as:
- Hosting or segment roles on weekly shows like Raw or SmackDown
- Special appearances during major pay-per-views or WWE Network specials
- Mentoring younger talent behind the scenes
- Participation in WWE’s digital and social media content campaigns
Fans speculate that Lana’s flexibility and relationship with Rusev might also lead to their collaboration in storylines, rekindling their iconic on-screen partnership or developing new angles that leverage their shared history[4][8].
Backstage Reaction and Fan Reception
The wrestling community has responded positively to Lana’s return, especially given her strong history with the company and her chemistry with Rusev. Sources close to WWE revealed that management views the duo as compelling figures who can connect with the audience on nostalgia and fresh storytelling fronts.
One source remarked, “WWE is betting on the Rusev-Lana package to bring an authentic Bulgarian flavor back to programming. Lana’s Legends deal gives her room to navigate the company without pressure, which could lead to creative surprises down the line.” This backstage support indicates that while Lana may not be competing full-time, she remains integral to WWE’s talent ecosystem[1][9].
Summary
Lana’s signing of a WWE Legends deal confirms her official return to WWE after a multi-year absence. While not under a traditional talent contract, this arrangement grants her the flexibility to contribute both in front of and behind the camera. It coincides with her husband Rusev’s return to WWE on a full two-year contract, with both deals brokered by Paradigm Talent Agency.
This Legends deal reflects WWE’s strategic investment in Lana’s legacy and ongoing appeal, positioning her as a valuable asset for future programming, storytelling, and special appearances. Wrestling insiders see this as a thoughtful approach allowing Lana to engage with WWE’s evolving landscape while preserving her unique status in the wrestling world.