WWE Rumors: Santino Marella Will Compete In WWE Royal Rumble This Sunday

We’ve been seeing his signature move in what appears to be the pre-game ritual of the Milwaukee Bucks with Robin Lopez as the frequent victim of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Wesley Matthews. This coming Sunday, the fans may see the originator of the maneuver himself on the ring after a long break.

Two-time Intercontinental Champion Santino Marella is reportedly one of the surprise entrants for this year’s edition of Royal Rumble. Per PWInsider reports posted on WrestlingNews.co, Marella will be reportedly flying to Houston to be part of the said PPV event.

If the 45-year old Marella won’t be competing in the 30-men free-for-all-event, there is also a chance that he will be in Texas for a taping of a WWE Network program since the promotion usually films their content during weekends following a big event.

Marella, Anthony Carelli in real life, has not competed in the WWE ring after announcing his retirement in 2004 in his hometown in Ontario, Canada. He was a two-time WWE Intercontinental champion, with the first one was won on his very first day in the WWE where he volunteered as a challenger from the audience in Italy and face then IC champ Umaga. He was knocked out by the Samoan Bulldozer before Bobby Lashley came in to help Marella win the title and the victory was considered as one of the greatest WWE debuts in history.

Unfortunately, he is best known for his infamous Royal Rumble appearance where he only lasted for a second as the 28^th entrant after being eliminated by Kane.

He mostly performed comical acts during his stint with the WWE that spanned for 11 years, including his tenure with the Ohio Valley Wrestling. He’s also won a tag team title with Vladimir Kozlov and a WWE United States Champion under his professional wrestling resume.

Carelli is the owner and president of Battle Arts Academy in Mississauga, ON, a mixed martial arts facility that offers lessons in combat sports such as Judo, Boxing, Wrestling, and more.