WWE: Cody Rhodes on The Rock & CM Punk WWE Returns, Rey Mysterio Injury Update, Early Surprise Entrants Plans for Royal Rumble

Cody Rhodes Comments on Not Being Bothered by The Rock & CM Punk’s Recent WWE Returns

Sports Illustrated held a recent interview with Cody Rhodes. One of the topics discussed included Rhodes’ thoughts about Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and CM Punk’s recent returns to WWE and if their returns affects his mission for his own return to the company.

“The Rock is The Great One–he’s still electrifying. CM Punk is one of the greatest stars in the history of wrestling. I know what I’m up against. Look at the roster–it’s loaded with stars. But that doesn’t bother me. I’m not flinching. I’m not rooting against anyone else, I’m just working to make it happen.

No run lasts forever. I know that. I’ve seen that. So I’m savoring every moment–and I’m working toward accomplishing what’s never been before.“

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Rey Mysterio Knee Injury Status Update

As noted before, Rey Mysterio underwent knee surgery this past November for an injury that Mysterio confirmed to be a meniscus tear.

A recent episode of the Bakers Bantering podcast featured Mysterio as the guest. One of the topics discussed included Mysterio’s thoughts about him currently being hopeful of being able to return in time for WWE’s Royal Rumble 2024 event later this month.

“I’m really working hard on my physical therapy. I just had knee surgery, thanks to Santos Escobar, and his time will come eventually. I do hope that I can return for the Rumble, if not shortly after that. I am working very hard to make my return as soon as possible.”

Transcript h/t: Fightful.com

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WWE’s Early Plans for Potential Surprise Entrants for Men’s & Women’s Royal Rumble Matches at Royal Rumble 2024

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that his sources stated that WWE officials currently have early plans for WWE Hall of Famer Sean “X-Pac” Waltman to be a potential surprise entrant for this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match at their Royal Rumble 2024 event on January 27th.

In regards to the Women’s Royal Rumble match, Johnson reported that WWE officials also currently have early plans for Naomi, also known as Trinity, to make her official return to the company as a potential surprise entrant for this year’s Women’s Royal Rumble match. Johnson also reported that Naomi is currently set to finish up with Impact/TNA Wrestling this month and WWE officials are currently expecting her to return soon.

Besides Trinity/Naomi, WWE officials reportedly also currently have plans for Liv Morgan to also be a potential surprise entrance for the Women’s Royal Rumble match. Morgan has been out of action for WWE since this past July due to a right shoulder injury.