Sheamus Shades Rusev’s AEW Booking During 6/2 WWE RAW

WWE didn’t say “AEW” by name on RAW—but Sheamus had no problem throwing shade at Rusev’s time away from the company.

The June 2, 2025 episode of Monday Night RAW featured a subtle but unmistakable jab at the former Miro’s AEW run, and fans definitely caught it.

During a backstage segment, Sheamus offered some encouragement to Akira Tozawa, who had just come off a loss to Rusev the previous week. But when the conversation turned toward Rusev’s return to WWE, Sheamus didn’t hold back.

“His time away from WWE was over faster than Rusev Day—24 hours,” Sheamus quipped, mocking the quick flameout of Rusev’s AEW run without naming the rival promotion.

It’s a line that hits harder than it seems. After being released by WWE in 2020, Rusev debuted in AEW as “Miro” and showed initial promise. But despite a brief run with the TNT Championship, his presence on AEW programming gradually vanished. Fans repeatedly questioned Tony Khan’s lack of creative direction for the former Intercontinental Champion, who was sidelined for extended periods with little explanation.

Now that he’s back under the WWE banner, Rusev appears poised to rebuild what was once one of the hottest gimmicks in the company. WWE isn’t ignoring his time away—but they’re certainly having fun at its expense.