WWE Hall of Famer makes first appearance in 82 days

Each year, WWE inducts several of its unforgettable talented members into the Hall of Fame. Some inductees part ways later and join other promotions or completely retire from pro wrestling. However, several of them stay connected with the Stamford-based promotion and keep helping it both on and off-screen.

Interestingly, one such Hall of Famer returned to WWE after 82 days following a key appearance. Theodore ‘Teddy’ Long is one of the company’s most remembered and legendary referees and managers, who later made his way into management. Interestingly, he was seen in the July 16, 2024, episode of NXT as part of Joe Hendry’s opening video promo.

Long was shown in one of the moments on the big screen as the Stamford-based promotion showcased key ‘I believe in Joe Hendry’ moments. The Hall of Famer was last seen on April 26, 2024, as one of personalities who were part of the decision making team and announced selections during the WWE Draft 2024.

Thus, he was part of a highly important team for the NXT division that helped Carmelo Hayes, Lyra Valkyria, and more move to the main roster. Interestingly, while Long was seen as being helpful behind the promotion of several NXT names, he recently reacted to a new debutant on the main roster who made a direct entry into WWE’s biggest faction.

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Teddy Long gives his take on the WWE debut of Jacob Fatu

The June 21, 2024, episode of Friday Night SmackDown saw the first appearance of the feared Jacob Fatu. The newest recruit of The Bloodline singlehandedly demolished Cody Rhodes, along with Kevin Owens and Randy Orton. Speaking to Sportskeeda Wrestling’s The Wrestling Time Machine with host Mac Davis, Teddy Long commented on the impact Fatu made with his appearance.

"I thought it was one of the greatest entrances I've seen in a long, long time," Long said. "He came in and he did business. He did exactly what he was supposed to do. Not only do you show up, you show out, and that's exactly what he did." [1:53 - 2:09]

Jacob Fatu’s addition has elevated Solo Sikoa’s status from looking like a small-time mob boss to a feared heel on WWE SmackDown. Moreover, his entry has also given the new Bloodline a strong edge for the first time since the departure of Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL.

It would be interesting to see how the villainous faction expand its domination and take back the Undisputed WWE Title.