Wrestling fans around the globe have reason to rejoice, as the legendary tag team, the Dudley Boyz, familiar to many as Team 3D, gear up for a much-anticipated return to the ring.
Coming together for the 1000th episode taping of Impact Wrestling, their upcoming reunion promises nostalgia and a testament to their lasting impact on professional wrestling.
A recent report from Sports Illustrated caught everyone’s attention, revealing that both Bully Ray and D-Von have just signed WWE Legends contracts. This move aligns the Dudley Boyz more closely with WWE, even as they prepare for a significant match outside of it.
Historically, these Legends contracts have served primarily for merchandising and likeness rights. With the duo’s storied past in WWE, Impact Wrestling, and even ECW, the move to ink these contracts likely indicates new merchandise on the horizon, perhaps in the form of action figures or even a potential appearance in WWE 2K24.
Bubba Ray Dudley, also known as Bully Ray, and D-Von Dudley, have enjoyed a near-30-year career, having worked with top wrestling promotions. The Dudley Boyz left an indelible mark in each of their appearances, but both wrestlers see their time in Impact Wrestling as the best showcase of their most comprehensive body of work. Bully Ray even highlighted their tenure at Impact, stating, “We spent more time in Impact than in ECW or WWE.”
The duo’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. After their last WWE match in 2016, D-Von faced health issues. He had a stroke in 2019 and subsequently underwent back surgery. D-Von’s health complications, combined with the demands of serving as a backstage producer for WWE, took a toll on him. However, D-Von’s resilience is nothing short of admirable.
Discussing his journey back to the ring, he shared:
At my wrestling school, I started getting into the ring with my students. Then I got the call from Bubba about doing the thousandth episode of Impact! He asked if I could get into ring shape, and I said, ‘Hell yeah.’ I’ve been working so hard to prove I haven’t lost a step. I’m ready for another 3D.
Bully Ray and D-Von have always showcased immense synergy and chemistry, elevating the Dudley Boyz gimmick, which was initially conceptualized as a joke, to legendary status. Their tale serves as a quintessential example of taking an opportunity and maximizing its potential. Reflecting on their journey, D-Von remarked, “Paul Heyman believed in us, and we decided to take the tag team to the next level.
The WWE Legends contract, while a nod to their past accomplishments, is also a testament to the industry’s recognition of their worth. This type of agreement is multifaceted, sometimes restricting appearances on other companies shows or PPVs, but often focusing on merchandise. As WWE looks forward to WrestleMania in Philadelphia, there’s buzz about an ECW-themed event, and locking down talent like the Dudley Boyz makes perfect sense.
The world of wrestling has evolved, but some things remain timeless. The Dudley Boyz, with their unparalleled tag team dynamics, are just as relevant today. Their upcoming appearance at Impact’s 1000th episode is not just a bout; it’s a celebration of wrestling history, resilience, and the enduring legacy of two of its finest talents.
