A shocking event occurred on WWE SmackDown on the night of March 27, 2025, when Goldust, a legendary figure played by Dustin Rhodes, suddenly returned to the stage after more than a year of absence, with a clear objective: to avenge his younger brother, Cody Rhodes, after the brutal attack by Kevin Owens. The event took place in Atlanta, Georgia, and caused an explosion of emotion in the audience when Goldust, with his characteristic golden face and peculiar style, emerged from the backstage just after Owens finished a provocative promo. Owens, who put Cody in the hospital with a prohibited piledriver in the main event of Saturday night in December 2024, was unable to react when Goldust arrived and delivered a Shattered Dreams right into the danger zone, causing “The Prizefighter” to collapse in pain.
Goldust’s return is not only a huge surprise, but it also marked his first WWE appearance since leaving the company in 2019 to join AEW. Dustin, who is currently in charge of training at AEW and runs a wrestling school, appears to have been invited by WWE to continue the Rhodes family storyline, which is always one of the most emotional stories in wrestling history. Cody, who is just returning from a serious neck injury with symptoms of “cervical compression” caused by Owens’ Piledriver, was not present at the event, but a video was broadcast on the giant screen showing him watching from the hospital, with proud eyes, as his brother stood up to protect the family honor.
Fans on social media immediately exploded with the hashtag #Goldustreturns, praising this dramatic return. “Goldust is still at his best! Owens deserves to be like this!” one writer, while others were moved: “The Rhodes family always has each other’s backs, it’s very emotional.” However, some suggested that WWE is overusing the family storyline to boost ratings, especially given that Owens has become a “destructive” villain, full of danger, ready to push the boundaries.
After defeating Owens, Goldust took the microphone and declared, “This is just the beginning, Kevin! The Rhodes family never forgets!” This statement seems to indicate a long-term battle, one that could extend all the way to WrestleMania 41. With Goldust’s return, Cody’s temporary absence, and Owens’ carefree attitude, WWE is gearing up for a story filled with drama and violence. Will Dustin be able to protect his brother and get his revenge, or will Owens continue to be the Rhodes family’s nightmare? The answer will be revealed in the coming weeks!
