WWE Plans Jelly Roll Return, Major SummerSlam Storyline

WWE is gearing up for a major storyline on SmackDown leading into SummerSlam 2025, featuring the return of a 40-year-old star, music sensation Jelly Roll, who may not compete in the ring but has strong ties to WWE and its legends like The Rock. Meanwhile, former WWE Champion Kevin Nash, retired for nearly seven years, confirmed he has no interest in returning to in-ring action, though he will attend SummerSlam. Former NXT star Elayna Black, previously known as Cora Jade, has expressed no desire to return to WWE despite considering it her dream job, choosing instead to pursue opportunities in independent promotions and other ventures; she also named Mercedes Mone and AJ Lee as her dream opponents. Carlito, having recently departed WWE, is set to wrestle Matt Riddle in an independent event, marking a new chapter in his career after his WWE contract expired in June 2025. WWE Hall of Famer Sting is also making appearances outside WWE, highlighting a trend of former stars seeking new paths post-WWE. These developments reflect a dynamic period in professional wrestling with notable talent exploring opportunities beyond WWE while the company prepares significant storylines involving returning stars.