During the WWE Clash in Paris premium live event on August 31, 2025, commentator Michael Cole made a direct reference to an active All Elite Wrestling talent. The moment occurred during the marquee singles match between Logan Paul and John Cena.
While on commentary, Cole acknowledged a running uppercut delivered by Paul to Cena in the corner, comparing it to a signature move of former WWE superstar Cesaro, who now competes in AEW under his real name, Claudio Castagnoli.
“Big uppercut, running uppercut, a Cesaro like uppercut from Logan Paul,” Cole stated on the broadcast.
The reference was a nod to the wrestler’s extensive history with WWE, where he performed as Cesaro from 2011 to 2022. Throughout his tenure, Castagnoli became well-known for his in-ring strength and technical skill, with the running European uppercut being a staple of his moveset. He is currently a member of the Death Riders faction in AEW.
Castagnoli’s time in WWE included a 239-day reign as United States Champion, which he won in 2012. He also achieved a career-defining moment at WrestleMania XXX in 2014 when he won the inaugural André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal by body-slamming Big Show over the top rope. He later became a seven-time tag team champion, most notably as part of “The Bar” with Sheamus, before his contract expired in February 2022.