Rusev born in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Rusev is born in Plovdiv, Bulgaria despite being billed from Russia during his WWE career. Rusev develops an early interest in sports and attends a sporting school where he pursues interest in rowing and power lifting.
WWE return
Johnson returns to WWE on Monday Night Raw to confront Rusev and Lana in the midst of their anti-American promo. Johnson attacks Rusev, forcing him to flee from the ring.
Rusev vs Swagger – U.S. title
Rusev defeats Swagger in singles competition at WWE TLC on pay-per-view to retain the United States Championship. Rusev picks up the submission victory at four minutes and fifty seconds.
Guest hosts RAW
Jericho returns to WWE to guest host Monday Night RAW live on the USA Network. WWE announces Jericho will host his talk segment “The Highlight Reel” with guest Rusev.