
Chad Gable Returns as Original El Grande Americano in Royal Rumble – Chad Gable made his long-awaited return during the men’s Royal Rumble, reappearing as the original El Grande Americano and immediately creating one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
Gable entered the match at number 13 and did not need much time to make his presence felt. As soon as he stepped into the ring, he came face-to-face with the current El Grande Americano, Ludwig Kaiser, setting the tone for what looks to be a major storyline heading into WrestleMania season.
Gable’s return carried added significance due to his extended absence. He suffered a shoulder injury in June 2025, which forced him off WWE programming for months. During that time, Kaiser assumed the El Grande Americano role, keeping the masked persona active while Gable recovered. The Royal Rumble confrontation marked the first time the two versions of El Grande Americano shared the ring, and the visual alone told a clear story without the need for commentary.
The El Grande Americano character has been closely tied to Gable’s recent career resurgence. He originally adopted the persona in March 2025, reinventing himself and gaining momentum almost immediately. That run led to a major milestone, as Gable competed in his first singles match at WrestleMania. He was originally set to face Rey Mysterio, but Rey Fenix ultimately stepped in due to Mysterio’s injury. The match helped cement El Grande Americano as more than a one-off gimmick and established Gable as a serious singles threat.
Kaiser’s involvement adds a different dynamic. By taking over the role during Gable’s injury, Kaiser effectively made El Grande Americano his own, which made their Royal Rumble stare-down feel personal rather than symbolic. The moment suggested unresolved issues that go beyond a simple character handoff.
Expect the two to feud until WrestleMania 42, with the Royal Rumble encounter serving as the opening chapter. With Gable now healthy and reclaiming his identity, the clash between the original and the replacement El Grande Americano appears far from over.
Chad Gable Returns as Original El Grande Americano in Royal Rumble


