Dolph Ziggler Returns For ‘Last Time Is Now Tournament’ During WWE RAW!

In a stunning twist that electrified Madison Square Garden, Dolph Ziggler made his long-awaited WWE return on the November 17 episode of Monday Night Raw. The former World Heavyweight Champion emerged as the mystery opponent for Solo Sikoa in the opening round of John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now” Tournament. Fans erupted as Ziggler’s iconic theme blared through the arena, marking his first WWE appearance since May 2023.

The tournament, designed to crown Cena’s final opponent for his retirement match at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13, has been a highlight of WWE’s fall programming. Cena, announcing his in-ring farewell after over two decades, promised a bracket filled with surprises. Ziggler’s entry as the 16th and final competitor added instant legitimacy, drawing from his storied history of stealing shows and defying odds.

Ziggler, released by WWE in September 2023, has thrived independently as Nic Nemeth in TNA Wrestling. There, he captured the TNA World Championship and tag titles with his brother Ryan Nemeth, solidifying his status as a global draw. Yet, stepping back into the WWE ring under his Dolph Ziggler persona felt like destiny, especially amid whispers of cross-promotional collaborations between WWE and TNA.

The match against Sikoa, the imposing Bloodline enforcer, began with ferocious intensity. Sikoa dominated early, using his raw power to ground the agile Ziggler. The crowd chanted “Let’s go, Ziggler!” as he absorbed punishing strikes, showcasing the resilience that defined his 19-year career. Ziggler’s underdog fire ignited when he reversed a Samoan charge into a blistering dropkick, sending Sikoa tumbling over the top rope.

Action spilled outside the ring, where Ziggler hurled Sikoa into the announce table with authority. Back inside, he unleashed a top-rope elbow drop that echoed through the Garden, followed by a near-fall STF submission. Sikoa’s rope break only fueled Ziggler’s momentum; he connected with a superkick that wobbled the Samoan powerhouse, reminiscent of Ziggler’s classic bouts against Cena himself.

The drama peaked as Ziggler hoisted Sikoa for the Zig Zag, planting him face-first for a thunderous two-count. The Garden faithful believed an upset was imminent, but Sikoa kicked out at the last millisecond. In a heartbeat, the tide turned—Sikoa caught Ziggler’s follow-up superkick attempt, countering with a devastating Samoan Spike. The pinfall was academic; Sikoa advanced, leaving Ziggler valiant in defeat.

This wasn’t just a match; it was a masterclass in storytelling. Ziggler’s performance elevated Sikoa, positioning the young star as a credible threat in the tournament’s quarterfinals against the winner of Big Bronson Reed versus Carmelo Hayes. Analysts praised how Ziggler’s near-victory built sympathy and hype, ensuring Sikoa’s progression felt earned rather than handed.

Ziggler’s return echoes last week’s SmackDown surprise, where Zack Ryder resurfaced to challenge LA Knight, only to fall short. Both cameos from the indie scene underscore WWE’s evolving strategy: tapping external talent to refresh brackets without overcommitting. Ryder’s post-match merchandise surge hints at untapped nostalgia; Ziggler’s classic “Showoff” tees are already climbing WWE Shop charts.

Reflecting on Ziggler’s WWE legacy, it’s a tapestry of triumphs and heartbreaks. From his 2013 cash-in on Alberto Del Rio to multiple Intercontinental reigns, he’s the ultimate entertainer—flamboyant yet gritty. His 2023 release shocked many, but Nemeth’s TNA run proved his timeless appeal. This one-night stand reignites debates: Is a full-time comeback on the horizon, or does it honor his independent grind?

WWE officials remain coy, with Raw General Manager Adam Pearce teasing “more crossovers to come.” For Cena, the tournament’s architect, Ziggler’s nod feels poetic. The 16-time champion once buried Ziggler in a controversial 2013 angle, only for Ziggler to rise repeatedly. Now, as Cena exits, elevating past foes like Ziggler cements his GOAT status.

Social media exploded post-match, with #ZigglerReturns trending worldwide. Fans lauded the Garden’s atmosphere, calling it a “homecoming for the ages.” TNA peers like Josh Alexander tweeted support, blurring lines between rivals and allies. Even Cena chimed in on X, posting a cryptic “The Showoff steals the spotlight—again,” fueling speculation of future intersections.

As the tournament marches on, upcoming clashes promise fireworks. Finn Bálor faces Penta El Zero Miedo on SmackDown, while Gunther awaits the Sikoa-Reed/Hayes victor. With Sikoa through, the bracket tightens toward December 13’s climax at Capital One Arena. Will Cena face a monster like Sikoa, or will an underdog upend the field?

Ziggler’s Raw appearance transcends wrestling; it’s a reminder of passion’s endurance. In an industry of reinvention, he embodies adaptability— from Spirit Squad heel to championship sage. Though eliminated, his impact lingers, proving one Zig Zag can still shake the squared circle.

For WWE Universe members, this return injects urgency into Cena’s farewell saga. Subscriptions on Peacock spiked, with highlights replayed endlessly. As 2025 unfolds, Ziggler’s tease leaves doors ajar: a Hall of Fame induction? A mentorship role? Or simply a thank-you to the fans who never forgot.

In the end, Dolph Ziggler’s “last time” felt anything but final. His Raw resurrection honors wrestling’s cyclical nature—heroes fall, only to rise when spotlights call. Solo Sikoa marches forward, but Ziggler’s spark ensures Cena’s tournament burns brighter. The Garden’s roar? A collective vow: We want more.