The forbidden door between WWE and TNA has swung wide open once again, as TNA’s Director of Authority, Santino Marella, made a shocking return to WWE on last night’s episode of NXT. The former Intercontinental Champion is now set to compete in his first official WWE match in over a decade—and it will be for a championship.
During the July 22nd broadcast of NXT, newly crowned North American Champion Ethan Page came to the ring and unveiled a customized version of the title belt featuring a Canadian flag strap. He then cut a scathing promo, denouncing the United States and praising his home country, Canada.
Marella interrupted Page’s promo with a surprise arrival, cutting it short. The TNA authority figure, also a proud Canadian, took exception to Page’s attitude and challenged him to a championship match, which officials later confirmed for the following week. On the July 29th episode of NXT, Marella will face All Ego for the NXT North American Championship, following their heated confrontation.
Marella last wrestled in WWE five years ago, appearing as “Santina Marella” in the Women’s Royal Rumble, where he self-eliminated after just one minute. Meanwhile, Page recently defended his NXT North American Title against Ricky Saints in a brutal Falls Count Anywhere match at The Great American Bash.
Fans Reacted to the News of Santino Marella Wrestling in WWE After a decade
Fans were surprised to learn that Santino Marella would wrestle one more time. While some welcomed his return to WWE as a pleasant surprise, others felt it didn’t make sense. Many expressed that NXT was at an all-time low.
One fan thought it would be funny if The Milan Miracle went on to dethrone Page. Another was confused, thinking Marella was Italian. Some fans wanted popular Mexican star Mr. Iguana to be included in the match, while others preferred current stars on the show over a legend from the past taking their spot. Here are some of the top fan reactions:
One user hoped Page would lose so he could move up to the main roster. Another asked whether Marella still used his iconic Cobra finisher. Some fans discussed the possibility of all TNA titles appearing in NXT and vice versa, while others expressed disappointment over WWE’s continued humiliation of TNA.