WWE loves nostalgia, and they love their big anniversary shows. The next big one coming up is Smackdown 1000, the thousandth episode of Smackdown Live, which airs on USA in its regular time slot on October 16, a week from tomorrow. Naturally, lots of Smackdown Superstars are returning for the big event, and there are even more rumors about other, perhaps bigger, returns.
The big one that we’ve been anticipating for most of this year is Rey Mysterio, who WWE has now confirmed will be a part of the show. Their announcement is vague about whether he’s sticking around afterward, but considering the widespread and persistent rumors that he was returning to WWE that have permeated since his appearance at the Royal Rumble in January, it’ll be surprising if he doesn’t hang out for a while.
Other stars confirmed to be returning for Smackdown 1000 include The Undertaker, Michelle McCool, Vickie Guerrero, Teddy Long and Torrie Wilson. The faction known as Evolution is also reuniting, which means Batista will appear alongside Ric Flair, Randy Orton, and Triple H. Bringing back an all-male faction at the go-home show for an all women’s PPV with the same name as that faction may seem like a weird and confusing move to some, but WWE’s going for it.
The Big Show is returning to in-ring action on Smackdown Live this week, so it seems likely he’ll also be around for the big show next week. How could he miss it?
There are also rumors that Edge will appear, as well as persistent chatter that WWE is trying to get the Rock to come back for the event. Further news is likely to emerge this week, especially on Smackdown tomorrow night.
