WWE wrestler Rusev has denied a report that the company plans to place him in a new faction alongside Ethan Page and Big Cass. Speaking on TMZ’s "Inside the Ring," Rusev said no one in WWE has informed him of such a plan and expressed reluctance about the idea.
“It’s very internet booking. We have one, two, three bad guys, let’s put them together. I have not heard anything about this, but also, I don’t know if I’m okay with that either,” Rusev said. He added that Page moved on to align with Big Cass during Rusev’s absence due to injury and illness, and he did not appreciate not being contacted.
Rusev acknowledged that plans can change quickly. “Someone said that they could have been greenlit on Tuesday, but by the time Wednesday night comes, everything could be scrapped. Everything is changing by the hour and day,” he said.
Before his time off, Rusev had been teaming with Page on Raw and participated in a number one contender’s gauntlet for the Intercontinental Championship in July. With the faction rumor dismissed, several alternative directions for his return have been suggested.
Potential Feud with Ethan Page
Rusev’s comments set up a personal rivalry with Page, who replaced him with Big Cass. Turning this into a televised feud would give Rusev an immediate storyline upon return and could turn him into a fan favorite, reminiscent of his popular “Rusev Day” run in 2017‑2018.
Chase the Intercontinental Championship
Chad Gable has held the Intercontinental Championship since defeating Penta at SummerSlam in August. Rusev was in the gauntlet that determined Gable’s title shot but has not received a singles opportunity. A program between Rusev and Gable would contrast styles, with Rusev providing a size and power challenge.
Move to SmackDown for a United States Title Run
Rusev is a former three‑time United States Champion. The title is currently held by Trick Williams on SmackDown. A brand switch would offer fresh opponents and a clear goal, positioning Rusev as a top midcard star rather than a faction member.
Program with Rising Star Oba Femi
Oba Femi, a top rising star on Raw, is not advertised for Crown Jewel. A series of matches with Rusev would give Femi a credible opponent on his path toward a reported match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 43, while delivering hard‑hitting heavyweight bouts.
