In a shocking turn of events, Chris Jericho has been roped in to replace Rusev in a Casket Match against The Undertaker at Greatest Royal Rumble to be held in Saudi Arabia on April 27.
WWE had originally announced a Casket Match between Rusev and The Undertaker in what will be The Deadman’s 2nd match after his ‘retirement’ following a loss to Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania 33 last year. Taker defeated John Cena last Sunday at Wrestlemania 34 in his return match.
WWE broke the news about the replacement a few hours ago on their official website.
“In a stunning turn of events, The Undertaker will battle Chris Jericho in a Casket Match at the Greatest Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia on Friday, April 27.
Originally, the Casket Match was to be between The Deadman and Rusev.”
Before the official announcement, Lana tweeted that she has spoken to the WWE officials to change the match.
All over the world, little boys and girls are celebrating #RusevDay, they smile for the greatest Superstar ever ! I’ve already spoke with @WWE officials to change that match because I REFUSE to let my husband @RusevBUL compete in a Casket Match at #WWEGRR! Happy #RusevDay
— Lana Day (@LanaWWE) April 12, 2018
Even though this match-up could have been a huge boost in Rusev’s career, it is unclear as to why was Lana unhappy about the match stipulation, as she clearly mentioned she did not want a Casket Match for her husband. Although Rusev seemed happy about the match with Taker as he was already hyping it on social media.
In a recent interview with TMZ, The Bulgarian Brute was confident about the possibility of defeating The Deadman and might have pushed the boundary a bit too much.
WWE's Rusev & Lana Say Rusev's Gonna Retire The Undertaker, Crush His Old Ass! https://t.co/5kmDJzBwAh
— TMZ (@TMZ) April 12, 2018
One person who was definitely not happy with Rusev’s smack talk was Michelle McCool, Taker’s wife.
Had to listen to see if “crush his old a$$” was ACTUALLY said! Guess some people are smarter than others…??? https://t.co/avOLWKORV8
— Michelle McCool (@McCoolMichelleL) April 12, 2018
Did Lana just end Rusev’s career? Or is this just kayfabe?
Whatever the case may be, April 27th will not be RusevDay.