Shinsuke Nakamura Returns To WWE TV, Attacks LA Knight

Former Intercontinental & United States Champion Shinsuke Nakamura has been absent from WWE programming for the better part of 2024, with his last on-screen appearance coming all the way back in April of this year when he lost to Sheamus on an episode of Monday Night RAW. In the many months since, Nakamura has solely competed on WWE Live Events, frequently challenging for the United States Championship. 

On last night’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Nakamura surprisingly showed up, continuing his pursuit of the gold. LA Knight successfully defended the United States Title against Berto on the show, but his celebration was halted by Nakamura, who attacked the champion from behind, marking his official return to television. 

WWE’s recent tour of the UK & Ireland saw Knight and Nakamura go at it in singles matches, so they are familiar with one another. It was reported a couple of months back that Nakamura’s absence from WWE TV was simply due to the company having no plans to use him. Last month it was revealed that Nakamura will be returning to Pro Wrestling NOAH for another one off match on January 1.