WWE confirm Batista will make sensational return at Smackdown 1,000 after four years out of wrestling
David Bautista quit in 2014 to focus on acting career, flourishing in Hollywood hit Guardians of the Galaxy
BATISTA is set to make a sensational return to WWE, it has been confirmed.
The wrestler, real name Dave Bautista, quit in 2014 to focus on his acting career.
He has flourished in Hollywood with roles in both Guardians of the Galaxy movies as Drax the Destroyer, plus his latest film Final Score, which was set at West Ham's old Upton Park ground.
But he has now been pencilled in for the 1,000th episode of Smackdown on October 16.
Batista, 49, will be reuniting with former Evolution cohort Triple H, Ric Flair and Randy Orton.
It appeared his much-anticipated comeback was in doubt when Batista last month revealed he was yet to receive an invite.
Batista had made clear his desire to return to wrestling but was made to sweat.
A WWE statement read: "The band is back together.
"At SmackDown 1000 on Tuesday, Oct. 16, Evolution reunites – Triple H, Batista, Randy Orton and Ric Flair will be in Washington, D.C. for the historic event.
"Evolution is comprised of some of the most successful Superstars in history – there are 49 world championship reigns between the four members, who ran roughshod through WWE from 2002 to 2005, then rode again for a vicious rivalry with The Shield in 2014.
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"What does Evolution have in store as they make their first-ever appearance on the blue brand during this groundbreaking night? Find out during SmackDown’s 1000th episode, Tuesday Oct. 16".
Former champion Batista insists he is not done with wrestling just yet.
He said last month: "They know that I'm always open to going back, it just has to be on the right conditions. I have to be available.
"As long as that makes sense, I'd love to go back because I miss it. I miss the audience, the immediate feedback, the adrenaline rush of the physical performance.
"It's just something that's still in me, wrestling.”
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