Rusev Smackdown Live Return Backstage
WWE/YouTube

Former champion reportedly returning to WWE television Tuesday

It's about time.

Former WWE United States champion Rusev is reportedly backstage at Tuesday night's Smackdown Live taping in Dayton, OH, according to a report from PWInsider.com.

The site hasn't confirmed whether or not he will be appearing on tonight's episode, but he is there and backstage, so it seems likely this is the night for his return following Sunday's Money in the Bank PPV.

Rusev, of course, has been out of action since March due to a shoulder injury that required surgery. He has, however, been seen on WWE television since his injury, as he hyped his return on a Smackdown Live video where he demanded a title shot from Smackdown Live commissioner Shane McMahon.

Although Rusev has been away, his longtime and real-life partner Lana has returned to television, even getting a WWE Smackdown Live Women's title shot against Naomi at Money in the Bank. Although, the Ravishing Russian came up short.

Still, it should be interesting to see how WWE handles both Rusev and Lana being on the same brand and whether or not they'll be split up going forward.