WWE SmackDown Live: Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns Shock Return in Shield Gear, Seth Rollins Voted Out

In a jaw-dropping moment that sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe, the June 1, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown Live delivered an unforgettable reunion as Dean Ambrose (now known as Jon Moxley in AEW) and Roman Reigns made a surprise return, donning their iconic Shield gear. The nostalgic sight of the black tactical vests and the signature entrance music sent fans into a frenzy, but the night took an even more unexpected turn when Seth Rollins, the third member of the legendary faction, was dramatically “voted out” in a shocking twist.

The evening began with Seth Rollins addressing the crowd, hyping his ongoing rivalry with Roman Reigns and CM Punk ahead of their anticipated clashes. As Rollins recounted the storied history of The Shield, the lights dimmed, and the unmistakable “Sierra, Hotel, India, Echo, Lima, Delta” blared through the arena. The crowd erupted as Roman Reigns emerged, followed by a figure no one expected: Dean Ambrose. The WWE Universe was left speechless as Ambrose, who left WWE in 2019 to join AEW, stepped back into a WWE ring for the first time in six years.

Reigns and Ambrose, united in their iconic Shield attire, confronted Rollins in a tense standoff. Reigns took the microphone, accusing Rollins of betraying The Shield’s legacy with his recent actions, particularly his alliance with Paul Heyman at WrestleMania 41, where Heyman turned on both Reigns and Punk to side with Rollins. Ambrose echoed Reigns, calling Rollins a “traitor” who had strayed from the brotherhood that once defined them. The tension escalated when Reigns announced a “vote” to determine Rollins’ place in The Shield, a nod to their shared history and Rollins’ infamous 2014 betrayal when he attacked his teammates with a steel chair.

In a dramatic moment, Reigns and Ambrose raised their fists, symbolically voting Rollins out of The Shield. The crowd roared with a mix of cheers and boos as Rollins stood stunned, his face a mixture of anger and disbelief. Ambrose sealed the moment with a fiery promo, declaring, “The Shield is about loyalty, and you, Seth, broke that a long time ago. We’re taking it back.” The segment ended with Reigns and Ambrose executing their signature triple powerbomb on Rollins through the announce table, cementing their reunion and sending a clear message to the WWE roster.

This shocking return has sparked rampant speculation about Ambrose’s status with AEW, where he remains the reigning World Champion. Reports suggest his WWE appearance could be a one-off, possibly facilitated by a special agreement, given his contract with AEW extends until 2027. Meanwhile, the WWE Universe is buzzing with questions: Is this the start of a new Shield era? Will Rollins seek revenge? With WrestleMania 42 on the horizon, the stage is set for an explosive chapter in this storied rivalry.