Rusev – The Rise, Legacy, and Where He Is Now

Who is Rusev?

Rusev, born Miroslav Barnyashev, is a professional wrestler best known for his powerful presence in WWE, where he performed under the ring name Rusev. Nicknamed “The Bulgarian Brute”, Rusev gained popularity for his intense strength, dominant in-ring style, and his portrayal of a proud, anti-American character—especially during his early WWE career.

He was born on December 25, 1984, in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and is the first Bulgarian to wrestle for WWE. His journey from Eastern Europe to wrestling’s biggest stage is one of determination, hard work, and raw talent.

Rusev’s WWE Debut and Rise to Fame

Rusev made his main roster debut on WWE Raw in 2014, accompanied by his real-life wife and on-screen manager Lana. His early run in WWE was marked by an undefeated streak that lasted nearly a year. During this time, he feuded with big names like John Cena, Big Show, and Mark Henry, presenting himself as a dominant foreign heel.

One of Rusev’s biggest moments came when he captured the WWE United States Championship. His feud with Cena at WrestleMania 31, where he entered the arena in a tank, is still one of the most iconic entrances in WrestleMania history.

Key Achievements in WWE

United States Champion (3 times)

Participated in multiple WrestleMania events

Known for popular catchphrases like “Rusev Day”, which became a fan-favorite movement

Feuded with top-tier superstars including AJ Styles, Roman Reigns, and Randy Orton

The Rusev Day gimmick in particular skyrocketed his popularity. Even though he was a heel initially, the audience embraced his charisma and comedic timing, turning him into an unlikely fan-favorite.

Rusev’s Exit From WWE

Despite his popularity, Rusev was released from WWE in April 2020 as part of a series of budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His departure shocked many fans, especially considering how well “Rusev Day” was received by the WWE Universe.

Where is Rusev Now?

After leaving WWE, Rusev rebranded himself as Miro and signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in September 2020. In AEW, he introduced a new persona—“The Redeemer”—a dominant, no-nonsense fighter seeking redemption and vengeance.

Miro quickly made an impact in AEW by winning the TNT Championship and delivering brutal promos and dominant matches. His transformation into a darker, more serious character earned praise from fans and critics alike.

Personal Life and Interesting Facts

Married to C.J. Perry (known as Lana in WWE)

He’s an avid gamer and streams regularly on Twitch

Rusev is passionate about fitness and health, often sharing workout tips with fans

He became a U.S. citizen in 2019, making his “foreign heel” WWE gimmick even more ironic

Why Fans Still Love Rusev (Miro)

Rusev’s appeal wasn’t just his strength or in-ring skills. Fans connected with his authenticity, his sense of humor, and his ability to reinvent himself. Whether it was crushing opponents as the Bulgarian Brute, making fans laugh during the Rusev Day era, or showing intensity as The Redeemer in AEW—he proved that he’s not a one-dimensional character.

Conclusion

From his humble beginnings in Bulgaria to becoming a global wrestling star, Rusev (now Miro) has carved out a unique legacy in professional wrestling. Whether in WWE or AEW, one thing is clear—he’s a force to be reckoned with. As fans, we can only wait to see what the next chapter holds for this dynamic and ever-evolving superstar.