Former persona reappears in surprise Men’s Rumble moment
Summary
– Chad Gable returned during the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble as El Grande Americano
– He entered at number 13 and confronted Ludwig Kaiser in the ring
– The appearance marked Gable’s return after a 2025 shoulder injury
Chad Gable made his return to WWE television during the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble, reprising his role as the original El Grande Americano.
Gable entered the Royal Rumble match at the number 13 position and immediately came face-to-face with Ludwig Kaiser, who had been portraying the El Grande Americano character in Gable’s absence. The encounter created a tense moment as both versions of the persona faced off in the ring.
Gable had been sidelined since June 2025 due to a shoulder injury. During his recovery, Kaiser assumed the El Grande Americano role, continuing the character’s presence on WWE programming.
Gable originally introduced the El Grande Americano persona in March 2025. The run led to a milestone moment when Gable competed in his first singles match at WrestleMania, facing Rey Fenix after Rey Mysterio was ruled out with an injury.
Gable’s return at Royal Rumble reopens questions about the future of the El Grande Americano character and sets the stage for a potential rivalry moving forward.
