Je’Von Evans, a rising star from NXT, made a surprising return to WWE SmackDown on the September 26th episode after being absent for 121 days. The 21-year-old appeared during Sami Zayn’s United States Championship open challenge, immediately stepping up to challenge Zayn for the title, marking a notable moment in Evans’ career.
Known for his impressive aerial skills and popularity among fans worldwide, Evans’ comeback energized the SmackDown roster. Despite ultimately losing the match, Evans delivered a strong performance that earned respect from Zayn by the end of the contest. The bout also featured interference from Evans’ rival Josh Briggs, who is scheduled to face him at the upcoming No Mercy event.
Evans last competed on SmackDown on May 30th, 2025, teaming with Rey Fenix against Loz Garza. Though still early in his career, Evans is widely regarded as having the potential to pursue championship success if given time and further experience.
Shotzi Reflects on Relationship with WWE and Triple H Before Departure
Earlier this year, former NXT star Shotzi was among 17 wrestlers released from WWE contracts. In a candid conversation on Saraya’s Rulebreakers podcast, Shotzi expressed feelings of disappointment toward WWE’s leadership, particularly Triple H, whom she believed had lost faith in her just before her release.
“I had just come back from an ACL tear. So, coming back from a huge injury and not being on TV for almost a year, I was kind of not surprised. They’re just like we lasted a year without you, so we’ll just let you go now that your contract is up. In that aspect, I wasn’t really surprised. I don’t know, I always thought that Hunter really believed in me, so it was a little disappointing. Yeah, I just felt like, dang, they gave up on me. I was in such a bad space for a few years with everything that I was going through and I was coming back from injury so much stronger, not just physically but mentally too. I was just ready to kill it coming back and I didn’t even get the opportunity to. So, I felt like they left a lot of meat on the bone, I was coming back on fire and ready to give them me, like the real me. I didn’t get the chance to show it.”
Shotzi described the period following her injury and absence from television as difficult, yet she felt mentally and physically prepared to return strongly. Her remarks reveal frustration over missing the chance to prove herself on a larger stage despite being ready for a comeback.
Recent Changes in SmackDown Lineup Include Booker T’s New Role
In other developments on SmackDown, Booker T has taken on a new position stepping in to replace a top star in the current roster. This reshuffling indicates ongoing shifts within the brand as WWE continues to manage talent dynamics post-contract releases and returns.
Significance and Prospects for WWE Talent
Je’Von Evans’ reappearance on SmackDown reinforces WWE’s ongoing investment in cultivating young talent with high potential, particularly as the company prepares for future championship storylines. His matchup against Sami Zayn, though unsuccessful, placed him in the spotlight and set the stage for future opportunities, especially with the looming rivalry involving Josh Briggs at No Mercy.
Conversely, Shotzi’s reflections highlight the challenges some wrestlers face behind the scenes, including contract uncertainties and management decisions that can abruptly alter career trajectories. These personal accounts add depth to the understanding of life within WWE’s competitive environment.
As WWE navigates these roster changes, the combined narratives of emerging talents like Evans and veterans like Shotzi underline the evolving nature of professional wrestling entertainment, where perseverance and readiness often dictate long-term success.
.@WWEJeVonEvans and @SamiZayn are already putting on a show! 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/UwEdbwjN14
— WWE (@WWE) September 27, 2025
