Major ex-WWE champion to finally return after 287 days on SmackDown? Exploring the possibility

Apollo Crews has not been since on WWE TV since the January 24, 2025, episode of SmackDown, where he defeated Johnny Gargano in a singles match. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn pectoral muscle during the battle and underwent surgery soon after, which led to his absence from TV.

Since then, Crews has been out of action, focusing on recovery and rehab. The star shared updates on social media confirming that his stitches were removed and that he was healing well. Back in August, reports indicated that the former Intercontinental Champion had resumed in-ring training ahead of his WWE return.

Although still officially part of the SmackDown roster, Crews hasn’t yet made his televised return, and WWE has not announced a specific return date. However, considering his progress, the wait might be over, and the star might make his comeback this week on the blue brand, marking the end of his absence of 287 days.

Apollo Crews could return to answer Ilja Dragunov’s United States Championship open challenge on SmackDown this week. This could not only mark his comeback, but give him the opportunity to enter the title picture and face one of the best in-ring performers in WWE today.

Further, a match like this could make headlines all around the globe and end up being one of the most physical matches in recent memory as well. Time will now tell if Apollo Crews is ready to make his comeback or needs more time in rehab before making his grand return to WWE.

Apollo Crews addressed bringing back his old persona following his WWE return

The former United States Champion once portrayed himself as a Nigerian royalty, and was accompanied by the Nigerian Giant, Omos, on the blue brand. Fans around the world enjoyed his character, and the star addressed bringing the gimmick back recently.

In a recent Instagram post, the star teased bringing back the gimmick in which he got to make his presence felt at WrestleMania as well. The star stated that he enjoyed the gimmick, which allowed him to dig deep and deliver some memorable in-ring performances.

"I was initially hesitant, but embracing this character became some of the most fun I've had throughout my wrestling career. I committed not only to performing to the best of my ability, but taking my physique to a different level as well." he wrote.

Fans will have to wait and see if Crews returns with his old gimmick or something fresh.

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Edited by Ishaan Rathi