Editing Rob Van Dam (section)

== Professional wrestling career ==

=== Early career (1990–1992) ===
{{Professional wrestling sidebar}}Szatkowski began training as a wrestler under [[The Sheik (wrestler)|The Sheik]] in 1989.<ref name="Dunn"/> He made his wrestling debut in 1990, defeating Dango Nguyen.<ref name="SLAM">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/vandam.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519202857/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/vandam.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 19, 2015| title=Rob Van Dam Bio|access-date=April 28, 2008|publisher=Slam! Sports}}</ref> He wrestled in many independent promotions across [[Michigan]], including the [[United States Wrestling Association]] (USWA) and [[South Atlantic Pro Wrestling]] (SAPW). In SAPW, he won his first wrestling [[Championship (professional wrestling)|championship]], the [[SAPW Tag Team Championship]], in July 1992 with Chaz Rocco.<ref name="biouswa">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#uswa|title=Rob Van Dam|website=www.accelerator3359.com}}</ref> He also wrestled in several independent promotions across America, and in [[All Japan Pro Wrestling]], where he challenged for the [[World Junior Heavyweight Championship (AJPW)|World Junior Heavyweight Championship]] on several occasions.<ref name="rvdindies">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#indy|title=Rob Van Dam|website=www.accelerator3359.com}}</ref> In the [[World Wrestling Federation]] in 1992 he wrestled as an enhancement talent against [[Jacques Rougeau|The Mountie]] under the ring name Matt Burn.<ref name="auto"/>

=== World Championship Wrestling (1992–1993) ===
Szatkowski signed with [[World Championship Wrestling]] (WCW) in 1992, and was dubbed "Robbie V" by [[booker (professional wrestling)|booker]] [[Ron Slinker]] upon his arrival since [[Bill Watts]] did not like the name Rob Van Dam.<ref name="biowcw">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#wcw|title=Rob Van Dam|website=www.accelerator3359.com}}</ref> Robbie V made his WCW debut on the January 23, 1993, episode of ''[[WCW Saturday Night]]'' as a [[Face (professional wrestling)|fan favorite]], defeating [[Job (professional wrestling)|enhancement talent]] [[Pat Rose]]. The following month, Robbie V entered a tournament for the vacant [[WCW World Television Championship]], defeating [[Henry O. Godwinn|Shanghai Pierce]] in the first round but losing to [[Vinnie Vegas]] in the second round, which aired on the March 20 episode of ''[[WCW WorldWide]]''. His last televised match was on the May 22 episode of ''Saturday Night'', a [[Professional wrestling tag team match types|tag team]] loss with [[Erik Watts]] against [[Shanghai Pierce and Tex Slazenger]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehistoryofwwe.com/wcw93.htm|title=WCW Ring Results 1993|work=The History of WWE|access-date=March 2, 2017}}</ref> In February and March 1993, Szatkowski wrestled in Japan for [[All Japan Pro Wrestling]]; upon his return to WCW, [[Ole Anderson]] had replaced Bill Watts as booker. Szatkowski left WCW in May 1993, feeling he was "lost in the shuffle".<ref name="Fisher">{{cite web |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1455319/rvd-details-issues-working-under-bill-watts-wcw/ |title=RVD details issues working under Bill Watts and Ole Anderson in WCW |access-date=March 7, 2024 |first=Kieran |last=Fisher |website=WrestlingInc.com |date=November 27, 2023 }}</ref> and being "[[jobbed out]]".<ref name="Dunn">{{cite web |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/dark-pegasus-video-review-rob-van-dam-one-of-a-kind-2-disc/ |title=Dark Pegasus video review: Rob Van Dam: One of a Kind 2-disc |access-date=November 29, 2024 |first=J.D. |last=Dunn |website=411Mania.com |date=February 11, 2005 }}</ref>

=== All Japan Pro Wrestling (1993–1997) ===
{{see also|	Rob Van Dam and Sabu}}

From 1993 to 1997, Van Dam made 10 tours of Japan with [[All Japan Pro Wrestling]] (AJPW).<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW"/> While wrestling for AJPW, he was advised by promoter [[Giant Baba]] to make himself stand out, which inspired Van Dam to begin [[airbrushing]] his singlets.<ref name="Dunn"/> His first tour took place in February and March 1993 as part of the annual Excite Series, where his opponents included [[Dory Funk Jr.]], [[Mighty Inoue]] and members of the famed Super Generation Army stable such as [[Mitsuharu Misawa]], [[Toshiaki Kawada]], [[Kenta Kobashi]] and [[Tsuyoshi Kikuchi]]

. Van Dam returned to AJPW in February and March 1994 as part of that year's Excite Series, facing opponents including [[Jun Akiyama]], [[Yoshinari Ogawa]], [[Masao Inoue (wrestler)|Masao Inoue]], [[Mighty Inoue]], [[Tamon Honda]] and the aforementioned members of the Super Generation Army.<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW"/>

Van Dam made a third tour with AJPW in February and March 1995, again as part of the Excite Series, facing opponents including the [[Can-Am Express]], the [[Holy Demon Army]], and the Super Generation Army; during this tour, he teamed with Bobby Bradley as "Aerial Assault". Van Dam returned to AJPW in May and June 1995 as part of the Super Power Series, again facing the Can-Am Express and the Super Generation Army in a series of tag team matches. In his final match of the tour, he unsuccessfully challenged [[World Junior Heavyweight Championship (AJPW)|World Junior Heavyweight Champion]] Danny Kroffat in the [[Nippon Budokan]]. He wrestled his fourth tour with AJPW in October 1995 as part of the October Giant Series. Van Dam wrestled his fifth tour of the year with AJPW in November and December 1995 as part of the [[World's Strongest Tag Determination League#1995|World's Strongest Tag Determination League]], where he teamed with [[Johnny Smith (wrestler)|Johnny Smith]]. Van Dam and Smith finished last out of 10 teams, defeating [[Jun Akiyama]] and [[Takao Omori]] but losing their other eight matches.<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW"/> He'd also compete in singles matches against opponents like [[Satoru Asako]] and [[Kentaro Shiga]]

Van Dam returned to AJPW for a sixth tour in February and March 1996 as part of the annual Excite series, again facing the Can-Am Express, Holy Demon Army, and Super Generation Army. He returned for a seventh tour in June and July 1996 as part of the Summer Action Series; during this tour, he teamed with [[Maunakea Mossman]] to unsuccessfully challenge Jun Akiyama and Takao Omori for the [[All Asia Tag Team Championship]]. In September and October 1996, he made an eighth tour as part of the October Giant Series; during this tour, he unsuccessfully challenged World Junior Heavyweight Champion [[Tsuyoshi Kikuchi]].<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW"/>

Van Dam returned to AJPW for a ninth tour in January 1997 as part of the New Year Giant Series, during which he mainly teamed with Sabu; towards the end of the tour, Van Dam and Sabu unsuccessfully challenged Akiyama and Omori for the All Asia Tag Team Championship in [[Korakuen Hall]]. In May and June 1997, Van Dam returned to AJPW for a tenth tour as part of the Super Power Series, during which he unsuccessfully challenged World Junior Heavyweight Champion [[Yoshinari Ogawa]].<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW"/>

=== Extreme Championship Wrestling (1996–2001) ===

==== Rivalry and alliance with Sabu (1996–1998) ====
{{Main|Rob Van Dam and Sabu}}
[[File:Rob Van Dam in ECW.jpg|thumb|upright=1.13|Van Dam as both [[ECW World Tag Team Championship|ECW World Tag Team Champion]] with [[Sabu (wrestler)|Sabu]] behind him, and [[ECW World Television Championship|ECW World Television Champion]], 1998]]

In early 1996, Van Dam signed with promoter [[Paul Heyman]]'s [[Philadelphia]]-based promotion [[Extreme Championship Wrestling]] (ECW), defeating [[Axl Rotten]] in his debut match at [[House Party (1996)|House Party]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996a.html#010596|title=Extreme Championship Wrestling January - March 1996|website=www.prowrestlinghistory.com}}</ref> Van Dam's mannerisms were those of a [[Drug subculture|stoner]], and he became a [[Face (professional wrestling)|face]] due to his laid-back attitude and unorthodox style. On March 30, he faced [[2 Cold Scorpio]] in a match for the [[ECW World Television Championship|World Television Championship]]. The match ended in a draw with 2 Cold Scorpio retaining the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996a.html#033096|title=ECW results - March 30, 1996|date= March 30, 1996|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref name="bioecw">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#ecw|title=Rob Van Dam's ECW Career (1996)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref>

Van Dam gained attention following a series of matches with long-time rival [[Sabu (wrestler)|Sabu]], which began with a match at [[Hostile City Showdown#1996|Hostile City Showdown]], won by Sabu.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996b.html#042096|title=Hostile City Showdown 1996 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> After the match, Van Dam declined to show proper respect for his opponent, leading to a rematch at [[ECW A Matter of Respect#1996|A Matter of Respect]], which was won by Van Dam.<ref name="bioecw"/> Per the pre-match stipulation, Sabu then offered Van Dam a handshake, but was again ignored. Instead, Van Dam left the ring and [[List of professional wrestling terms#Turn|turned]] [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] under the management of [[Bill Alfonso]].<ref name="bioecw"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996b.html#051196|title=A Matter of Respect results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[Hardcore Heaven#1996|Hardcore Heaven]], Van Dam faced his rival Sabu once again, in a match to prove who was the better man, but Sabu won the match.<ref name="bioecw"/><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996b.html#062296|title=Hardcore Heaven 1996 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> The two faced each other yet again in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|stretcher match]] at [[ECW The Doctor Is In|The Doctor Is In]]. Van Dam lost the match after missing a [[Professional wrestling aerial techniques#Plancha|Plancha]] to the outside, hitting the railing and falling onto the stretcher.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996c.html#080396|title=The Doctor is In results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> He was quickly rolled out.<ref name="bioecw"/>

At [[ECW Natural Born Killaz|Natural Born Killaz]], Van Dam defeated [[Doug Furnas]] in a match. Post-match, Van Dam offered Furnas a handshake, but Furnas instead hit Van Dam with a short-arm [[clothesline]], starting a rivalry between the two.<ref name="bioecw"/> After his rivalry with Furnas expanded to also include [[Philip Lafond|Dan Kroffat]], Van Dam wanted a [[tag team]] partner of his own. After losing to long-time rival Sabu once again at [[Unlucky Lottery]], the two united and formed what was to become one of the most successful tag teams in ECW history.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996c.html#091396|title=Unlucky Lottery results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> They feuded with Furnas and Kroffat defeating them at [[When Worlds Collide II]] and [[High Incident]].<ref name="bioecw"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996c.html#091496|title=When Worlds Collide II results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996d.html#102696|title=High Incident results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

Van Dam and Sabu next feuded with [[The Eliminators]], [[John Kronus]] and [[Perry Saturn]]. On November 1, the two teams fought to a draw.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996d.html#110196|title=ECW results - November 1, 1996|date=November 1, 1996|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam then feuded with [[Taz (wrestler)|Taz]], to whom he lost at [[Holiday Hell#1995|Holiday Hell]] via knockout.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1996d.html#120796|title=Holiday Hell results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Sabu and Van Dam continued to feud with The Eliminators for the [[ECW World Tag Team Championship|World Tag Team Championship]] into 1997. At [[Crossing the Line Again]] and [[ECW CyberSlam#1997|Cyberslam]], the teams faced off for the ECW World Tag Team Championship in a pair of matches, both of which were won by The Eliminators.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997a.html#020197|title=Crossing the Line Again results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997a.html#022197|title=Cyberslam 1997 (February 21, 1997) results|date=February 21, 1997|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref name="ECW97">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#97|title=RVD's ECW Career (1997)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> At CyberSlam, the two teams faced each other for the title in a [[Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match]], in which The Eliminators again retained their title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997a.html#022297|title=Cyberslam 1997 (February 22, 1997) results|date=February 22, 1997|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

At ECW's first pay-per-view event [[ECW Barely Legal|Barely Legal]], Van Dam defeated [[Lance Storm]] as a last-minute replacement for the injured [[Chris Candido]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997b.html#041397|title=Barely Legal results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Immediately following the match, Van Dam expressed his distaste for being chosen as a back-up for "some guy who couldn't even lace his boots." Van Dam delivered a speech directed towards Paul Heyman, and not being originally booked on the show was a point of contention between Van Dam and Heyman for a time.<ref name="ECW97"/>

In May 1997, ECW "invaded" the [[WWE|World Wrestling Federation]]'s (WWF) ''[[Monday Night Raw]]'' television show, drawing the ire of color commentator [[Jerry Lawler]]. Lawler then promised he would show up at an ECW show in order to gain revenge, and when he did show up, he had ECW mainstays Van Dam (who turned heel) and Sabu with him. Van Dam made [[List of professional wrestling terms#P|speeches]] about how he was too good for ECW and deserved to be in one of the "Big Two" (WWF or [[World Championship Wrestling|WCW]]) on one of their Monday night programs (''Monday Night Raw'' or ''[[WCW Monday Nitro|Monday Nitro]]''). Lawler began to call Van Dam "Mr. Monday Night" on an episode of ''Monday Night Raw'' which became a moniker that would stay with Van Dam, changing to suit the day of the week of whichever program was being broadcast. Despite his arrogance and "betrayal" of ECW, over time Van Dam became applauded by fans recognizing his athleticism and unique maneuvers.<ref name="rvdwwf">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#wwf|title=RVD: Mr. Monday Night|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> On the May 12 episode of ''Monday Night Raw'', Van Dam defeated [[Jeff Hardy]]. On June 6, Van Dam defeated [[Flash Funk]] on ''Monday Night Raw'' and teamed with Lawler to defeat [[the Headbangers]] on ''[[Shotgun Saturday Night]]''. On the June 16 episode of ''Monday Night Raw'' , Van Dam and Lawler lost to the Headbangers in a tournament for the vacant [[WWF World Tag Team Championship]].

Van Dam continued to team up with Sabu upon his return to ECW on June 13.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997b.html#061397|title=ECW results - June 13, 1997|date=June 13, 1997|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> [[Taz (wrestler)|Taz]]'s manager Bill Alfonso betrayed Taz and joined Sabu and Van Dam. Van Dam started a new rivalry with [[Tommy Dreamer]], who wanted to gain revenge on Van Dam for his betrayal of ECW.<ref name="rvdwwf"/><ref name="ecwreturn">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#ecw2|title=RVD - Return to ECW (1997)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> On June 21, Van Dam and Sabu earned a victory over Dreamer and [[The Sandman (wrestler)|The Sandman]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997b.html#062197|title=ECW results - June 21, 1997|date=June 21, 1997|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam and Sabu emerged victorious against Dreamer and Sandman again at [[Orgy of Violence]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997b.html#062897|title=Orgy of Violence results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[ECW Heat Wave#1997|Heat Wave]], Van Dam, Sabu, and WWF's Jerry "The King" Lawler fought Dreamer, Sandman, and [[Rick Rude]] to a no contest.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997c.html#071997|title=Heat Wave 1997 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam and Dreamer faced each other in a hardcore match at [[Born to Be Wired]], won by Van Dam after he performed a [[leg drop]] on Dreamer with a trashcan.<ref name="ecwreturn"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997c.html#080997|title=Born to Be Wired results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam and Sabu became partners while Dreamer teamed up with Taz.<ref name="ecwreturn"/> At Fright Fight, Van Dam lost to Dreamer in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Flag match|flag match]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997d.html#103197|title=Fright Fight results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[Ultimate Jeopardy#1997|Ultimate Jeopardy]], Van Dam and Sabu faced Dreamer and Taz, a match won by Taz and Dreamer after Dreamer pinned Van Dam. At [[November to Remember (1997)|November to Remember]], Van Dam faced Dreamer in another flag match which went to a no contest.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997d.html#113097|title=November to Remember 1997 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[ECW Better Than Ever|Better Than Ever]], Van Dam and Sabu faced Dreamer and Taz in a rematch. This time, Van Dam pinned Dreamer to give the victory to his team and to settle their rivalry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997d.html#120697|title=Better Than Ever results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam's final encounter with Dreamer came on January 5, when Dreamer teamed up with Taz, [[Al Snow]], and Sandman to take on Van Dam, Sabu, Doug Furnas, and Phil Lafon. Van Dam's team lost the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1997d.html#122697|title=ECW results - January 5, 1998|date=December 26, 1997|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

In 1998, Van Dam turned [[Face (professional wrestling)|face]] and started a feud with [[The Triple Threat]] ([[Shane Douglas]], [[Bam Bam Bigelow]], and [[Chris Candido]]).<ref name="ecw98">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#98|title=RVD's ECW Career (1998)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> At [[House Party (1998)|House Party]], Van Dam defeated Bam Bam Bigelow.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998a.html#011098|title=House Party 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[Hostile City Showdown (1998)|Hostile City Showdown]], Van Dam and Sabu defeated Axl Rotten and [[Balls Mahoney]] by disqualification.<ref name="hostilecity98">{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998a.html#013198|title=Hostile City Showdown 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> The two went on to win a [[Professional wrestling tag team match types#Elimination tag team matches|fatal four-way elimination tag team match]] later that night.<ref name="hostilecity98"/> At [[ECW CyberSlam#1998|CyberSlam]], Van Dam and Sabu lost to [[ECW World Heavyweight Championship|World Heavyweight Champion]] Shane Douglas and Bam Bam Bigelow.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998a.html#022198|title=Cyberslam 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

Van Dam's popularity increased when he got his first taste of ECW gold, on April 4 when he defeated Bam Bam Bigelow to win the World Television Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998b.html#040498|title=ECW results - April 4, 1998|date=April 4, 1998|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref name="ecwtv">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/ecwtvtitlehistory/|title=History Of The ECW Television Championship|access-date=December 29, 2007|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Van Dam retained the belt in his first title defense on April 10 against Doug Furnas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998b.html#041098|title=ECW results - April 10, 1998|date=April 10, 1998|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Sabu also expressed interest in Van Dam's championship, leading to a title match between the two at [[Wrestlepalooza#1998|Wrestlepalooza]]. Van Dam retained the title as the match ended in a time limit draw.<ref name="ecw98"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998b.html#050398|title=Wrestlepalooza 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

At [[A Matter of Respect]], Van Dam and Sabu were forced to face each other in a tag team match as they both teamed up with World Tag Team Champions. Van Dam teamed with the one half of the champions, Lance Storm, while Sabu teamed with the other half, Chris Candido. Van Dam and Sabu reconciled and instead took out Storm and Candido making it a no contest.<ref name="ecw98"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998b.html#051698|title=A Matter of Respect 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam and Sabu started a feud with Storm and Candido in the next month for the tag team title.<ref name="ecw98"/> On June 29, Van Dam and Sabu beat Storm and Candido to win the World Tag Team Championship,<ref name="ecwtagteam">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/ecw/history/ecwtaghistory/|title=History Of The ECW Tag Team Championship|access-date=December 29, 2007|publisher=WWE}}</ref> which made Van Dam a double champion.<ref name="ecw98"/> On October 24, Sabu and Van Dam lost the title to the [[Dudley Boyz]] ([[Bubba Ray Dudley|Buh Buh Ray]] and [[D-Von Dudley|D-Von]]) after interference from Triple Threat.<ref name="ecw98"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998d.html#102498|title=ECW results - October 24, 1998|date=October 24, 1998|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam sought revenge and at [[November to Remember (1998)|November to Remember]], Van Dam and Sabu teamed with Taz to defeat Triple Threat.<ref name="ecw98"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1998d.html#110198|title=November to Remember 1998 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> On December 13, Van Dam and Sabu won the World Tag Team Championship for a second time by beating the Dudley Boyz in [[Japan]] at a [[Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling]] [[ECW/FMW Supershow#II|ECW/FMW Supershow]].<ref name="ecw98"/><ref name="ecwtagteam"/>

==== Longest-reigning World Television Champion (1998–2000) ====
Van Dam remained the World Television Champion for the rest of 1998, and he started 1999 by making successful title defenses against the likes of [[Spike Dudley]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999a.html#010299|title=ECW results - January 2, 1999|date=January 2, 1999|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Lance Storm at [[Guilty as Charged (1999)|Guilty as Charged]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999a.html#011099|title=Guilty as Charged 1999 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> [[Jerry Lynn]] at [[Crossing the Line '99]], Balls Mahoney at [[Anarchy Rulz (1999)|Anarchy Rulz]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999a.html#011599|title=ECW results - January 15, 1999|date=January 15, 1999|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> and 2 Cold Scorpio at [[ECW CyberSlam#1999|CyberSlam]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999b.html#040399|title=CyberSlam 1999 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref name="ecw99">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#99|title=RVD's ECW Career (1999)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref>

Van Dam and Sabu were scheduled to make a title defense on April 17, but Sabu was suspended by ECW before the match occurred.<ref name="ecw99"/> Instead, Van Dam faced D-Von Dudley in a singles match and as a result of losing the match, Van Dam also lost the ECW World Tag Team Championship to the Dudleyz.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999b.html#041799|title=ECW results - April 17, 1999|date=April 17, 1999|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> After losing the tag team titles, Van Dam focused on defending the Television title.<ref name="ecw99"/> He entered into a rivalry with Jerry Lynn against whom he defended the Television title at [[Hardcore Heaven (1999)|Hardcore Heaven]] in a "no time limit" match.<ref name="hardcoreheaven">{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/1999b.html#051699|title=Hardcore Heaven 1999 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam retained the title, and the match was deemed so good that [[Paul Heyman]] aired it on [[ECW on TNN|ECW]]'s debut on [[Spike (TV channel)|TNN]] in place of a [[Shoot (professional wrestling)|shoot promo]] about TNN that he was planning, but was not allowed to air.<ref name="hardcoreheaven"/> Van Dam continued to defend the ECW World Television Championship for the remainder of the year.

Van Dam began a feud with [[Rhyno|Rhino]] in the beginning of 2000. Van Dam successfully defended the ECW World Television Championship against Rhino on January 7.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000a.html#010700|title=ECW results - January 7, 2000|date=January 7, 2000|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam got a victory during a title defense against Sabu at [[Guilty as Charged (2000)|Guilty as Charged]] which was Sabu's last match in the promotion.<ref name="ecw2000">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#00|title=RVD's ECW Career (2000)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000a.html#010900|title=Guilty as Charged 2000 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam was scheduled to perform in a "champion vs. champion" pay-per-view main event against the ECW World Heavyweight Champion [[Mike Awesome]]. This match potentially could have been ECW's most lucrative pay-per-view main event, and Heyman was depending on it to bring an influx of badly needed finances, but the match never occurred because Van Dam suffered a broken ankle during a successful title defense against Rhino on January 29.<ref name="ecw2000"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000a.html#012900|title=ECW results - January 29, 2000|date=January 29, 2000|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> The injury also forced Van Dam to vacate the ECW World Television Championship.

==== Final appearances (2000–2001) ====
Van Dam returned to ECW at [[Hardcore Heaven (2000)|Hardcore Heaven]] on May 14 and faced long-time rival Jerry Lynn. Van Dam was supported by his [[Legit (professional wrestling)|real-life]] friend [[Scotty Riggs|Scotty Anton]] who eventually [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#T|turned]] on him when Van Dam was going to perform a [[Professional wrestling aerial techniques#Frog splash|Five-Star Frog Splash]] on Lynn. Anton pushed him from the top rope, which helped Lynn win the match.<ref name="ecw2000"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000b.html#051400|title=Hardcore Heaven 2000 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam feuded with Anton and took his revenge at [[Heat Wave (2000)|Heat Wave]] on July 16 by defeating Anton after debuting his new finisher called the "[[Dropkick#Corner-to-corner missile dropkick|Van Terminator]]".<ref name="ecw2000"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000c.html#071600|title=Heat Wave 2000 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> Van Dam then attempted to exact revenge on Rhino for forcing his injury. He received many opportunities to win the ECW World Television Championship back from Rhino, but Rhino's allies usually attacked Van Dam, causing disqualifications and allowing Rhino to retain the title.<ref name="ecw2000"/> At [[Anarchy Rulz (2000)|Anarchy Rulz]] on October 1, Van Dam faced Rhino for the ECW World Television Championship but was [[List of professional wrestling terms#S|screwed]] when a heel referee made a fast count during a pinfall attempt made by Rhino.<ref name="ecw2000"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2000d.html#100100|title=Anarchy Rulz 2000 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

Van Dam was not advertised and did not show for a large number of ECW events due to the large sum of money owed to him.<ref name="ecw2000"/> He appeared at ECW's final pay-per-view event [[Guilty as Charged (2001)|Guilty as Charged]] on January 7, 2001, where he defeated Jerry Lynn.<ref name="ecw2001">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#01|title=RVD's ECW Career (2001)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/ecw/results/2001.html#010701|title=Guilty as Charged 2001 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> This was Van Dam's last appearance in ECW, as ECW only held two more shows after the pay-per-view.

=== All Japan Pro Wrestling (2001) ===
In February and March 2001, Van Dam returned to All Japan Pro Wrestling for an eleventh tour as part of its "Excite Series". During the tour, Van Dam primarily wrestled in tag team matches, teaming with partners including [[Danny Kroffat]] and [[Gran Naniwa]]. His opponents during the tour included Giant Kimala and Sabu.<ref name="KreikenbohmAJPW">{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=866&view=&page=4&gimmick=&year=&promotion=6&region=&location=&arena=&showtype=&constellationType=&worker=|title=Rob Van Dam - matches - All Japan Pro Wrestling|access-date=November 18, 2024|website=Cagematch.net|first=Philip|last=Kreikenbohm}}</ref>

=== World Wrestling Federation / World Wrestling Entertainment (2001–2007) ===

==== The Invasion (2001) ====
{{Main|The Invasion (professional wrestling)|l1=The Invasion|The Alliance (professional wrestling)|l2=The Alliance}}

Several months after the closure of ECW, Van Dam was signed to a short-term contract by the [[World Wrestling Federation]] (WWF). Along with fellow ECW alumnus Tommy Dreamer, Van Dam returned to WWF television on the July 9, 2001, episode of ''Raw is War'' in [[Atlanta, Georgia]] as a [[Heel (wrestling)|heel]], and attacking WWF wrestlers [[Glenn Jacobs|Kane]] and [[Chris Jericho]].<ref name="alliance">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#alliance|title=Rob Van Dam's Character In Alliance Storyline|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref name="Raw - July 9, 2001">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/010709.html|title=Raw results - July 9, 2001|date=July 9, 2001|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> Later that night, five wrestlers from WWF and five wrestlers from WCW took on ten ECW wrestlers, including Van Dam. The match never took place as instead the WCW wrestlers aligned themselves with the ECW wrestlers.<ref name="alliance"/><ref name="Raw - July 9, 2001"/>

Despite being presented as a heel, Van Dam was popular with the WWF fans, who were aware of his reputation in ECW. After defeating [[Jeff Hardy]] for the [[WWF Hardcore Championship]] at [[WWF Invasion]] on July 22,<ref name="alliance"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/miscppvs2000s.html|title=WWF Invasion results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref><ref name="hardcore">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/hard/|title=History Of The WWE Hardcore Championship|access-date=December 31, 2007|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2001/mainevent/|title=No Mercy 2001 main event|publisher=WWE|access-date=February 9, 2009|archive-date=February 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090202083213/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2001/mainevent/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Van Dam lost the Hardcore Championship to Hardy on the August 13 episode of ''Raw is War'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/010813.html|title=Raw results - August 13, 2001|date=August 13, 2001|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> but regained it at [[SummerSlam (2001)|SummerSlam]] on August 19 in a ladder match. During this time Van Dam had defeated wrestlers such as Kane, [[The Undertaker]], [[Kurt Angle]], Chris Jericho, [[Dwayne Johnson|The Rock]] and even Alliance leader [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]] in singles and tag team matches.<ref name="hardcore"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2001/results/|title=SummerSlam 2001 official results|publisher=WWE|access-date=February 9, 2009|archive-date=March 5, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090305202318/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2001/results/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Van Dam became one of the most popular members of [[The Alliance (professional wrestling)|the Alliance]] who faced The Rock for the [[WCW World Heavyweight Championship|WCW Championship]] on multiple occasions, and even challenged Alliance leader Stone Cold Steve Austin for the [[WWE World Championship|WWF Championship]] including a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|triple threat match]] at [[No Mercy (2001)|No Mercy]] on October 21 also involving [[Kurt Angle]], but did not win. At [[Survivor Series (2001)|Survivor Series]] on November 18, Van Dam and four other Alliance members faced five WWF wrestlers in a ''Winner Take All'' match. Team WWF won, and the members of the Alliance were fired; however, as he held the [[WWE Hardcore Championship|Hardcore Championship]], Van Dam was able to retain his job.<ref name="alliance"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2001/results/ |title=Survivor Series 2001 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071103130418/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2001/results/ |archive-date=November 3, 2007 }}</ref>

==== Intercontinental Champion and Championship Unifications (2001–2002) ====
Van Dam became a face, but lost the Hardcore Championship to The Undertaker at [[Vengeance (2001)|Vengeance]] on December 9.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/history/vengeance2001/results/|title=Vengeance 2001 official results|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#wwf2|title=RVD's WWF Career (2001)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> He then entered into a rivalry with [[William Regal]] over Regal's [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|WWF Intercontinental Championship]].<ref name="wwf2002">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#02|title=RVD's WWF Career (2002)|publisher=Acclerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref> On the February 25, 2002 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam defeated Lance Storm and [[Big Show]] in a triple threat match to become the #1 contender to the Intercontinental Championship.<ref name="wwf2002"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020225.html|title=Raw results - February 25, 2002|date=February 25, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania X8]] on March 17, Van Dam faced Regal for the Intercontinental Championship and won the match after he hit Regal with a Five-Star Frog Splash.<ref name="wwf2002"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm18/ |title=WrestleMania X-8 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080319101052/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm18/ |archive-date=March 19, 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322704|title=History Of The Intercontinental Championship - Rob Van Dam(1)|access-date=January 1, 2008|publisher=WWE|archive-date=December 15, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071215085628/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322704|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[File:Rvdwmx8@Commons.jpg|left|thumb|upright=0.9|Van Dam after winning the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|WWF Intercontinental Championship]] at [[WrestleMania X8]]]]

When the WWF was divided into two "[[WWE brand extension|brands]]", [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] and [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown!]] in 2002, Van Dam was [[WWE brand extension#Superstar selections|drafted]] to the Raw brand as the fourth pick, thus bringing the Intercontinental Championship to ''Raw''.<ref name="rvdraw02">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#raw1|title=RVD's Raw Career (2002)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref name="2002 Draft">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020325.html|title=Raw results - March 25, 2002|date=March 25, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the April 1 episode of ''Raw'', after Van Dam defended his title successfully against [[Booker T (wrestler)|Booker T]], [[Eddie Guerrero]] returned to the WWF and attacked Van Dam.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020401.html|title=Raw results - April 1, 2002|date=April 1, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> He started a feud with Guerrero over the Intercontinental Championship. At [[Backlash (2002)|Backlash]] on April 21, Van Dam lost the Intercontinental Championship to Guerrero.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2002/results/|title=Backlash 2002 official results|publisher=WWE}}</ref> At [[Insurrextion (2002)|Insurrextion]] on May 4, Van Dam and Guerrero had a rematch for the Intercontinental Championship. Guerrero was disqualified after hitting the referee with the Intercontinental Championship; as a result, Van Dam won the match but not the title because a title cannot change hands by disqualification.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/ins.html#2002|title=Insurrextion 2002 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> At [[Judgment Day (2002)|Judgment Day]] on May 19, Van Dam failed to win the Intercontinental title from Guerrero in another rematch.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/judgmentday2002/results/ |title=Judgment Day 2002 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080215114025/http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/judgmentday2002/results/ |archive-date=February 15, 2008 }}</ref> The following night he defeated The Undertaker for the [[WWE Championship|WWE Undisputed Championship]] but Raw owner [[Ric Flair]] restarted the match (due to The Undertaker's foot being on the bottom rope), which Van Dam then lost negating the title win.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020520.html|title=Raw results - May 20, 2002|date=May 20, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the May 27 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam defeated Guerrero in a [[ladder match]] for his second Intercontinental Championship.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020527.html|title=Raw results - May 27, 2002|date=May 27, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322712 |title=History Of the Intercontinental Championship - Rob Van Dam (2) |access-date=January 1, 2008 |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421232701/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322712 |archive-date=April 21, 2007 }}</ref>

After facing each other in the final round of the [[King of the Ring (2002)|2002]] [[King of the Ring tournament]] (which he lost), Van Dam and [[Brock Lesnar]] began feuding with each other. Van Dam defended his Intercontinental Championship against Lesnar twice and retained his title both times by disqualification on the June 24 episode of ''Raw'' and at [[Vengeance (2002)|Vengeance]] on July 21.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020624.html|title=Raw results - June 24, 2002|date=June 24, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/history/vengeance2002/results/|title=Vengeance 2002 official results|publisher=WWE}}</ref> On the July 22 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam won the [[WWE European Championship]] for the first and only time{{refn|group=note|name=first}} after he defeated then-European Champion Jeff Hardy in a [[championship unification]] [[ladder match]]. As a result, the European Championship was deactivated upon being unified with the Intercontinental Championship. On the July 29 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam lost the Intercontinental Championship to [[Chris Benoit]].<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020729.html|title=Raw results - July 29, 2002|date=July 29, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

[[File:RVDCampeonIC.JPG|thumb|Van Dam as Intercontinental Champion]]
At [[SummerSlam (2002)|SummerSlam]] on August 25, Van Dam won his third Intercontinental Championship by defeating Benoit in a rematch for the title.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2002/results/|title=SummerSlam 2002 official results|publisher=WWE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322720 |title=History Of The Intercontinental Championship - Rob Van Dam(3) |access-date=January 1, 2008 |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070422143034/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322720 |archive-date=April 22, 2007 }}</ref> As Benoit brought the title to ''SmackDown!'' when he switched brands shortly after winning it, Van Dam brought the title back to ''Raw''.<ref name="rvdraw02"/> On the August 26 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam won the Hardcore Championship for the fourth and final time after he defeated then-Hardcore Champion Tommy Dreamer in a championship unification [[hardcore match]]. As a result, the Hardcore Championship was deactivated upon being unified with the Intercontinental Championship.<ref name="hardcore"/><ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020826.html|title=Raw results - August 26, 2002|date=August 26, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the September 9 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam became the number one contender to the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] by defeating Chris Jericho, [[Jeff Hardy]], and [[Big Show]] in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic elimination matches|fatal four-way elimination match]].<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020909.html|title=Raw results - September 9, 2002|date=September 9, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

Van Dam started feuding with the World Heavyweight Champion [[Triple H]]. On the September 16 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam lost the Intercontinental Championship to Chris Jericho after interference by Triple H.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/020916.html|title=Raw results - September 16, 2002|date=September 16, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> At [[Unforgiven (2002)|Unforgiven]] on September 22, Van Dam faced Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship. Due to [[Ric Flair]]'s interference, Van Dam lost the match.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>[http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/history/2002/rawmainevent/ Unforgiven 2002 main event] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100921081355/http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/history/2002/rawmainevent/ |date=September 21, 2010 }}</ref> At [[No Mercy (2002)|No Mercy]] on October 20, Van Dam got his revenge on Flair by defeating him.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2002/results/ |title=No Mercy 2002 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071126081749/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2002/results/ |archive-date=November 26, 2007 }}</ref> At [[Survivor Series (2002)|Survivor Series]] on November 17, Van Dam participated in the first-ever [[WWE Elimination Chamber|Elimination Chamber]] match for Triple H's World Heavyweight Championship, but it was won by [[Shawn Michaels]]. During the match, Van Dam performed a Five-Star Frog Splash off of one of the pods/chambers onto Triple H, and accidentally landed his knee onto Triple H's throat.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2002/mainevent/ |title=Survivor Series 2002 main event |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080221171201/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2002/mainevent/ |archive-date=February 21, 2008 }}</ref>

==== Teaming and feuding with Kane (2002–2003) ====
Van Dam appeared on the World Heavyweight Championship scene and also formed a tag team with Kane in October.<ref name="rvdraw02"/> Van Dam defeated Jericho and Booker T in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|Triple Threat match]] to become the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/021118.html|title=Raw results - November 18, 2002|date=November 18, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the November 25 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam faced Michaels for the World Heavyweight Championship. Michaels was disqualified after Triple H hit Van Dam with a [[Facebuster#Double underhook facebuster|Pedigree]].<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/021125.html|title=Raw results - November 25, 2002|date=November 25, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the December 2 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam lost to Triple H in a #1 contender's match with World Heavyweight Champion Shawn Michaels acting as the [[Professional wrestling match types#Special referee|special guest referee]].<ref name="rvdraw02"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/021202.html|title=Raw results - December 2, 2002|date=December 2, 2002|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

Van Dam continued to team up with Kane. Van Dam participated in the [[Royal Rumble (2003)|Royal Rumble]] on January 19, 2003, and was one of the final five participants before being tricked and eliminated by Kane. The two faced Lance Storm and William Regal at [[No Way Out (2003)|No Way Out]] on February 23 for the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] but failed to win the titles when Kane mistakenly [[chokeslam]]med Van Dam.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2003/results/|title=No Way Out 2003 official results|publisher=WWE}}</ref> On the March 31 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam and Kane defeated World Tag Team Champions Lance Storm and [[Sean Morley|Chief Morley]] and The Dudley Boyz in a [[Professional wrestling tag team match types#Elimination tag team matches|3-way elimination tag team match]] to win the World Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/030331.html|title=Raw results - March 31, 2003|date=March 31, 2003|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/304454132112211 |title=History Of The World Tag Team Championship - Kane and Rob Van Dam(1) |access-date=January 2, 2008 |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051123033305/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/304454132112211 |archive-date=November 23, 2005 }}</ref> At [[Backlash (2003)|Backlash]] on April 27, Van Dam and Kane retained the titles against The Dudley Boyz with Morley as the special guest referee.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2003/results/ |title=Backlash 2003 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080224033139/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2003/results/ |archive-date=February 24, 2008 }}</ref> At [[Insurrextion (2003)|Insurrextion]] on June 7, Van Dam and Kane defended the World Tag Team Championship successfully against La Résistance,<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/ins.html#03|title=Insurrextion 2003 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref> before losing the titles to La Résistance at [[WWE Bad Blood (2003)|Bad Blood]] on June 15.<ref name="rvdraw03">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#03|title=RVD's Raw Career (2003)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/supercards/usa/wwf/badd.html#2003|title=Badd Blood 2003 results|publisher=Pro Wrestling History}}</ref>

After Kane was forced to take his mask off when he lost a World Heavyweight Championship match to Triple H on the June 23 episode of ''Raw'', he [[List of professional wrestling terms#T|turned]] heel by chokeslamming Van Dam, and the team dissolved. The two then started feuding with each other.<ref name="rvdraw03"/> On the August 18 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam faced [[Christian Cage|Christian]] for the WWE Intercontinental Championship, but Kane interfered in the match and knocked Van Dam out after hitting him with a chair. Kane then took Van Dam to the backstage area and was about to set him on fire. Kane changed his mind at the last minute, however, and said that he was not going to do what "they" wanted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/030818.html|title=Raw results - August 18, 2003|date=August 18, 2003|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> Their rivalry led to a [[Professional wrestling match types#No Disqualification match/No Holds Barred match|No Holds Barred match]] at [[SummerSlam (2003)|SummerSlam]] on August 24, which Kane won.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2003/results/ |title=SummerSlam 2003 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070619060949/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2003/results/ |archive-date=June 19, 2007 }}</ref> On the September 8 episode of ''Raw'', the rivalry ended when Kane defeated Van Dam in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Cages|steel cage match]]. Kane threw Van Dam through the steel cage by mistake (causing Van Dam to win), but [[Eric Bischoff]] came out and restarted the match, saying Van Dam did not escape through the door or climb out of the cage and ordered the referees to put Van Dam back inside the cage where Kane eventually hit a chokeslam from the side of the cage to pick up the victory.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/030908.html|title=Raw results - September 8, 2003|date=September 8, 2003|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

==== Championship reigns (2003–2005) ====
In September, Van Dam started feuding with both Christian and Chris Jericho over Christian's Intercontinental Championship. On the September 15 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam faced Jericho in a number one contender's match for the title. The match ended in a double disqualification when Intercontinental Champion Christian interfered and hit both men with the title belt.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/030915.html|title=Raw results - September 15, 2003|date=September 15, 2003|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> At [[Unforgiven (2003)|Unforgiven]] on September 21 in a triple threat match between Jericho, Christian, and Van Dam, Christian retained his title.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref name="rvdoww">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/r/rob-van-dam.html|title=Rob Van Dam's OWW Profile|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/history/2003/results/ |title=Unforgiven 2003 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080331203746/http://www.wwe.com/shows/unforgiven/history/2003/results/ |archive-date=March 31, 2008 }}</ref> Van Dam, however, defeated Christian in a ladder match on the September 29 episode of ''Raw'' to win the Intercontinental Championship for a fourth time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322748 |title=History Of The Intercontinental Championship - Rob Van Dam(4) |access-date=January 2, 2008 |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070410194446/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322748 |archive-date=April 10, 2007 }}</ref> Van Dam entered into a rivalry with Chris Jericho in October, and the two faced each other in several tag team matches.<ref name="rvdoww"/> On the October 27 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam lost the Intercontinental Championship to Jericho. Van Dam reached the ropes when the challenger had him in the [[Boston crab#Elevated Boston crab|Walls of Jericho]], but Raw Co-General Manager Eric Bischoff distracted the referee while Jericho dragged Van Dam back into the middle of the ring. Van Dam submitted and Jericho became the new champion.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref name="rvdoww"/><ref name="Raw - RVD vs Jericho">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/031027.html|title=Raw results - October 27, 2003|date=October 27, 2003|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> Raw Co-General Manager Stone Cold Steve Austin came out and immediately ordered Jericho to face Van Dam in a rematch inside the Steel Cage for the title. Van Dam won the rematch and his fifth Intercontinental Championship.<ref name="rvdoww"/><ref name="Raw - RVD vs Jericho"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322756 |title=History Of the Intercontinental Championship - Rob Van Dam (5) |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070422142210/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/322756 |archive-date=April 22, 2007 }}</ref>

At [[Survivor Series (2003)|Survivor Series]] on November 16, Van Dam was pinned by [[Randy Orton]] during the traditional elimination match between Team Austin and Team Bischoff that Van Dam's team would lose.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2003/results/ |title=Survivor Series 2003 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080102150217/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2003/results/ |archive-date=January 2, 2008 }}</ref> As a result, Orton and Van Dam started feuding with each other over Van Dam's Intercontinental title.<ref name="rvdraw03"/> Van Dam lost the Intercontinental Championship to Orton at [[Armageddon (2003)|Armageddon]] on December 14 after interference from Ric Flair.<ref name="rvdraw03"/><ref name="rvdoww"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/history/2003/results/ |title=Armageddon 2003 official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071130160822/http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/history/2003/results/ |archive-date=November 30, 2007 }}</ref> Van Dam went on to feud with both Orton and Evolution. On the January 12, 2004, episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam faced Orton in a rematch for the Intercontinental Championship but lost the match.<ref name="rvdraw04">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#04|title=RVD's Raw Career (2004)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/040112.html|title=Raw results - January 12, 2004|date=January 12, 2004|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

Van Dam formed a tag team with [[Booker T (wrestler)|Booker T]]. The two teamed for the first time on the January 19 episode of ''Raw'' when they defeated Christian and [[Matt Hardy]] to qualify for a battle royal where the winner of the Battle Royal would get the #30 spot in the [[Royal Rumble (2004)|2004 Royal Rumble]] match on January 25.<ref name="rvdraw04"/><ref name="2004 Royal Rumble #30">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/040112.html|title=Raw results - January 19, 2004|date=January 19, 2004|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref> On the February 16 episode of ''Raw'', Booker T and Van Dam defeated [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]] members Ric Flair and [[Dave Bautista|Batista]] to win the World Tag Team Championship.<ref name="rvdraw04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/3044541321331 |title=History Of The World Tag Team Championship - Rob Van Dam and Booker T(1) |access-date=February 17, 2008 |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050706011939/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/3044541321331 |archive-date=July 6, 2005 }}</ref> At [[WrestleMania XX]] on March 14, Booker T and Van Dam defended the World Tag Team Championship in a fatal four-way elimination tag team match against the Dudley Boyz, La Résistance, and the team of [[Mark Jindrak]] and [[Lance Cade|Garrison Cade]].<ref name="rvdraw04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm20/results/ |title=WrestleMania XX official results |publisher=WWE |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080319101057/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm20/results/ |archive-date=March 19, 2008 }}</ref> On the March 22 episode of ''Raw'', Booker T and Van Dam lost the World Tag Team Championship back to [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]].<ref name="rvdraw04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/040322.html|title=Raw results - March 22, 2004|date=March 22, 2004|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

On March 22, Van Dam was [[2004 WWE Draft Lottery|drafted]] to the SmackDown! brand.<ref name="rvdsd04">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#sd|title=RVD's SmackDown! Career (2004)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref> He made his ''SmackDown!'' debut on March 25 defeating [[Charlie Haas]]. Van Dam and [[Rey Mysterio, Jr.|Rey Mysterio]] began a feud with the Dudley Boyz, defeating them at [[Judgment Day (2004)|Judgment Day]] on May 16.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/judgmentday2004/results/ |title=Judgment Day 2004 official results |publisher=WWE |access-date=February 18, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080323114358/http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/judgmentday2004/results/ |archive-date=March 23, 2008 }}</ref> In June, Van Dam left the tag team division and began a pursuit for the [[WWE United States Championship|United States Championship]]. At [[The Great American Bash (2004)|The Great American Bash]] on June 27, [[John Cena]] defended the title against Van Dam, Booker T, and [[René Goguen|René Duprée]] in a Fatal Four-Way match and retained his championship.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2004/results/ |title=The Great American Bash 2004 official results |publisher=WWE |access-date=February 18, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071211021856/http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2004/results/ |archive-date=December 11, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref> On the July 1 episode of ''SmackDown!'', Van Dam and Duprée lost to Booker T in a number one contender's Triple Threat match.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040701.html|title=SmackDown! results - July 1, 2004|date=July 1, 2004|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref> Four weeks later, Van Dam participated in an [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic elimination matches|8-way elimination match]] for the vacant United States Championship, and was the last man to be eliminated by eventual winner Booker T.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/040729.html|title=SmackDown! results - July 29, 2004|date=July 29, 2004|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref>

Van Dam began teaming up with Mysterio again in the summer and feuded with René Duprée and [[Kenzo Suzuki]]. At [[No Mercy (2004)|No Mercy]] on October 3, Van Dam and Mysterio failed to win the [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Championship]] from Dupree and Suzuki.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2004/results/ |title=No Mercy 2004 official results |publisher=WWE |access-date=February 18, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219171744/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2004/results/ |archive-date=February 19, 2008 }}</ref> On the December 9 episode of ''SmackDown!'', Van Dam and Mysterio defeated Duprée and Suzuki to win the WWE Tag Team Championship,<ref name=wwetag>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/raw-tag-team-championship|title=Raw Tag Team Championship|website=WWE}}</ref> and retained the title in a rematch at [[Armageddon (2004)|Armageddon]] on December 12.<ref name="rvdsd04"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/history/2004/results/ |title=Armageddon 2004 official results |publisher=WWE |access-date=February 18, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080323114147/http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/history/2004/results/ |archive-date=March 23, 2008 }}</ref> In January 2005, Van Dam suffered a knee injury. To explain his absence, the [[Basham Brothers]] ([[Doug Basham|Doug]] and [[Daniel Hollie|Danny]]) defeated Mysterio and Van Dam for the WWE Tag Team Championship, in a Fatal Four-Way elimination tag team match on the January 13 episode of ''SmackDown!'', "injuring" Van Dam in the process.<ref name="rvdsd05">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#05|title=RVD's SmackDown! Career (2005)|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/smackdown/050113.html|title=SmackDown! results - January 13, 2005|date=January 13, 2005|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref> On January 27, Van Dam underwent reconstructive knee surgery under Dr. James Andrews to repair a torn [[anterior cruciate ligament]] and [[Meniscus (anatomy)|meniscus]].<ref name="rvdoww"/><ref name="rvdsd05"/>

==== WWE Champion and ECW Champion (2005–2006) ====
[[File:Rob Van Dam RVD thumbs.jpg|thumb|Van Dam during his ring entrance at [[WrestleMania 23]]]]

While recuperating, Van Dam made an appearance at the ECW reunion pay-per-view [[ECW One Night Stand (2005)|ECW One Night Stand]] on June 12. Accompanied by his former manager Bill Alfonso and sporting a knee brace, Van Dam delivered a [[Shoot (professional wrestling)#Worked shoots|worked shoot]] [[List of professional wrestling terms#P|promo]], standing up for ECW and criticizing the way he had been [[List of professional wrestling terms#B|booked]] in WWE, until he was attacked by [[Terry Gerin|Rhyno]]. He was saved by Sabu, who defeated Rhyno in an impromptu match. Despite his injury, Van Dam got physically involved in the match, hitting Rhyno with a chairshot and giving him a [[#In wrestling|Chair Surf]].<ref name="raw05">{{cite web|url=http://www.accelerator3359.com/Wrestling/bios/vandam.html#raw3|title=RVD's Raw Career (2005)|publisher=Accelerator's Wrestling Rollercoaster|access-date=February 18, 2008}}</ref> On the June 27 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam, while still healing, was drafted to the Raw brand in the [[2005 WWE draft lottery|2005 draft lottery]]. He was introduced to ''Raw'' by [[Carly Colón|Carlito]], who insulted Van Dam before attacking him and assaulting his knee. Van Dam made his return to the ring over seven months later at the [[Royal Rumble (2006)|Royal Rumble]] on January 29, 2006. He gained revenge on Carlito by eliminating him, but was in turn inadvertently eliminated by Rey Mysterio in the final moments. On the February 6 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam defeated Carlito in the first round of the Road to WrestleMania Tournament to determine the number one contender to the WWE Championship, but lost in the final round to Triple H, in a triple threat match, which also featured Big Show. Later, Van Dam defeated [[Trevor Murdoch]] to qualify for the [[Money in the Bank ladder match]] at [[WrestleMania 22]] on April 2. Van Dam went on to win the match, thus earning himself a guaranteed shot at either the WWE Championship or World Heavyweight Championship at any time within the subsequent year.<ref name= MitB>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wrestlemania22/matches/2220322/results/|date=February 4, 2006|title=RVD wins the "Money in the Bank" Ladder Match|publisher=WWE}}</ref>

Following the ladder match, [[Shelton Benjamin]] challenged Van Dam to put his Money in the Bank opportunity on the line in a match. Van Dam countered by requesting a match for Benjamin's Intercontinental Championship. One week later, both Van Dam and Benjamin picked mystery opponents for one another, with the loser placing their respective prize on the line in a bout at [[Backlash (2006)|Backlash]] on April 30. Benjamin lost to the returning [[Charlie Haas]], while Van Dam was defeated by all five members of the [[Spirit Squad]]. As a result, both the Intercontinental Championship and the Money in the Bank title shot were contested at Backlash. Van Dam went on to win the former, before dropping the Intercontinental Championship back to Benjamin on the May 15 episode of ''Raw''.

[[File:RobVD5.jpg|thumb|left|Van Dam facing Hardcore Holly in the [[Elimination Chamber#Variations|Extreme Elimination Chamber]] at [[December to Dismember (2006)|December to Dismember]]]]
On May 29, Van Dam was selected by Paul Heyman to be [[2006 WWE brand extension draft|drafted]] to WWE's new [[ECW (WWE brand)|ECW]] brand. At [[ECW One Night Stand (2006)|ECW One Night Stand]] on June 11, Van Dam cashed in his Money in the Bank contract and defeated John Cena to win the WWE Championship. After two referees were knocked out, [[Adam Copeland|Edge]] appeared from underneath the ring to attack Cena, [[Professional wrestling attacks#Spear|spearing]] him through a table. Van Dam then hit a [[Professional wrestling aerial techniques#Frog splash|Five Star Frog Splash]] and the pinfall was counted by Paul Heyman, who suddenly ran down the aisle. On the following episode of ''Raw'', [[Vince McMahon]] confirmed that the title change was official due to the match being held under "extreme rules". For the past few weeks, Heyman had hinted that the WWE Championship would be "rechristened" the ECW World Heavyweight Championship when Van Dam won. On the debut of ''[[WWE ECW|ECW]]'', Van Dam was awarded the reinstated [[ECW World Heavyweight Championship]] by Heyman and decided to defend the WWE Championship separately and simultaneously, joking that "this one spins", becoming the first wrestler in history to hold both the WWE Championship and the ECW World Heavyweight Championship as well as the only one to hold them at the same time, making him a double world champion. He would become the 15th WWE [[Triple Crown (professional wrestling)#WWE|Triple Crown Champion]] as a result of his WWE Championship win.

At [[Vengeance (2006)|Vengeance]] on June 25, Van Dam defeated Edge to retain the WWE Championship. Two nights later on ''ECW'', Van Dam defeated Kurt Angle to retain the ECW World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ecw-wwe/060627.html|title=Online World of Wrestling|website=www.onlineworldofwrestling.com}}</ref> On the July 3 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam lost the WWE Championship to Edge in a triple threat match that also featured John Cena. The next night on the July 4 episode of ''ECW'', he lost the ECW World Heavyweight Championship to Big Show after Heyman [[List of professional wrestling terms#T|turned]] on him. Later on WWE.com, Heyman suspended Van Dam for 30 days without giving a reason ([[Legit (professional wrestling)|in reality]], WWE suspended Van Dam for 30 days as a result of [[#2006 arrest|his recent drug possession arrest]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/ecw/news/rvdsuspended|title=RVD Suspended|publisher=WWE|access-date=July 4, 2006}}</ref>

He returned to television on the August 8 episode of ''ECW'', attacking both Sabu and [[Kurt Angle]] during a match. His return to the ring came a week later, in a losing effort to Sabu in a [[ladder match]] for number one contendership to the now renamed ECW World Championship. Van Dam slowly worked his way back into the championship picture. In October, Van Dam defeated Big Show in a non-title match to regain the number one contendership. Having the option to pick a date for the title, Van Dam announced the title match would occur at [[December to Dismember (2006)|December to Dismember]] on December 3. However, Heyman had the option of picking the match type and announced that the main event would be a six-man [[Elimination Chamber#Variations|Extreme Elimination Chamber]] match. At December to Dismember, Van Dam was the third participant eliminated. Later in December, Van Dam once again earned the number one contendership to the ECW World Championship, but this time by a fan poll. Van Dam got three matches against ECW World Champion [[Bobby Lashley]], coming up short each time.

==== The ECW Originals (2006–2007) ====
{{Main|ECW Originals}}
[[File:ECW originals313.jpg|upright=0.9|thumb|[[Sabu (wrestler)|Sabu]], [[Tommy Dreamer]], Van Dam and [[The Sandman (wrestler)|The Sandman]] ([[ECW Originals]]) performing their signature poses]]

Rob Van Dam later joined the [[ECW Originals]] along with Sabu, Tommy Dreamer, and [[The Sandman (wrestler)|The Sandman]]. The ECW Originals began a feud with the [[New Breed (ECW)|New Breed]] ([[Elijah Burke]], [[Kevin Thorn]], [[Monty Brown|Marcus Cor Von]], and [[Matthew Kaye|Matt Striker]]). The two teams faced off at [[WrestleMania 23]] on April 1, 2007 in a match which the ECW Originals won. After Vince McMahon won the ECW World Championship at [[Backlash (2007)|Backlash]] on April 29, Van Dam and the other ECW Originals made statements on WWE.com about McMahon killing ECW. On the May 1 episode of ''ECW'', the ECW Originals all competed in a fatal four-way match to decide who would take on McMahon the next week in a title match, which Van Dam won after a five-star frog splash on Sandman. Van Dam, however, had to face McMahon, [[Shane McMahon]], and [[Eddie Fatu|Umaga]] in a 3-on-1 handicap match, which Van Dam was unable to win.

Van Dam received a concussion during a match with [[Randy Orton]] on the May 28 episode of ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/articles/3960574/rvdupdate|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070531083102/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/articles/3960574/rvdupdate|archive-date=May 31, 2007|title=RVD injury update}}</ref> Orton further attacked Van Dam after the match due to the comments Van Dam made on WWE.com about the lack of respect Orton displayed towards [[Shawn Michaels]], who also suffered a concussion at the hands of Orton. Van Dam once again faced Orton at [[One Night Stand (2007)|One Night Stand]] on June 3, this time in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|Stretcher match]]. Although it looked as if Orton was going to win again, Van Dam gave him a [[roundhouse kick]] to the head and was able to push the stretcher across the line for the win. Despite winning the match, Orton continued to attack Van Dam, ending with an [[DDT (professional wrestling)#Elevated DDT|elevated DDT]] off the barricade and onto the concrete floor, in which Van Dam was carried out on a stretcher. After the match, Van Dam left WWE due to being burnt out and needing time away.

=== Return to the independent circuit (2007–2010) ===
The day after Van Dam's WWE contract expired, he was in the United Kingdom on a promotional tour and to record scenes for the wrestling documentary, ''[[Bloodstained Memoirs]]''. He also took part in interviews for the [[BBC]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestling.com/article/news/8474 |title=prowrestling.com |author=pw |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090327214246/http://www.prowrestling.com/article/news/8474 |archive-date=March 27, 2009 }}</ref>

Van Dam defeated [[Booker T (wrestler)|Booker T]] at Pro Wrestling Alliance Christmas Chaos on December 28, 2007, in Pasadena, Texas.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=866&page=4&year=2007&promotion=304|title=Rob Van Dam - Matches |website=CageMatch}}</ref>

[[File:Rob Van Dam AWR 2009.JPG|upright|thumb|right|Van Dam as No Limits Wrestling (NLW) Champion at ''American Wrestling Rampage'']]
In an interview with the ''Baltimore Sun'', Van Dam stated that while WWE would be the first choice and that he would definitely talk to them, he would definitely consider [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]] (TNA) if he returned full-time to pro wrestling.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tnawrestlingnews.com/headlines/203136810.shtml |title=TNA News: RVD On TNA: 'I Definitely Would Consider Them', More|publisher=TNAWrestlingNews|date=January 23, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080127100933/http://www.tnawrestlingnews.com/headlines/203136810.shtml|archive-date=January 27, 2008}}</ref> While not under contract, Van Dam made an unannounced return on WWE's ''[[WWE Raw#Special episodes|15th Anniversary Raw]]'' in December 2007, [[List of professional wrestling terms#squash|squashing]] [[Santino Marella]] with a Five-Star Frog Splash.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/12102007/|title=Rhodes and Holly golden on Raw's 15th Anniversary|date=December 10, 2007|last=Clayton|first=Corey|access-date=January 9, 2008|publisher=WWE}}</ref> He made a similarly unannounced appearance as a participant in the [[Royal Rumble (2009)|2009 Royal Rumble]], which he failed to win as he was eliminated by [[Chris Jericho]].<ref>{{cite web|title=2009 Royal Rumble Statistics and Eliminations|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/2009/participants09/|date=January 25, 2009|access-date=January 19, 2011|publisher=WWE}}</ref>

He returned to the [[independent circuit]] by competing for Associação Portuguesa de Wrestling (APW) in February 2008. He then also appeared for Nu-Wrestling Evolution (NWE) throughout countries such as [[Spain]]. On August 14, 2008, he won a triple threat match at the [[Inoki Genome Federation]] (IGF) in [[Japan]] after defeating [[Kendo Kashin]] and [[Necro Butcher]].<ref name="OWOW">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/r/rob-van-dam.html| title=OWOW profile|access-date=April 28, 2008|publisher=Online World Of Wrestling}}</ref>

On March 9, 2009, it was announced that Van Dam would be competing in American Wrestling Rampage (AWR) on their European Tour, during which he won the promotion's No Limits Wrestling (NLW) Championship in a three way bout versus Sabu and former champion Shawn Maxer.<ref name="wrestlezone.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/article/rob-van-dam-wins-a-world-title-in-paris-france-60083|title=Rob Van Dam Wins A World Title In Paris, France|date=March 20, 2009|author=Wz Bill Behrens|access-date=March 20, 2009|archive-date=March 22, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090322023032/http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/article/rob-van-dam-wins-a-world-title-in-paris-france-60083|url-status=dead}}</ref> He lost the title to [[René Goguen|René Duprée]] after three successful defenses. In November he regained the title, renamed the AWR World Heavyweight Championship at this point, from Duprée on November 29 winning two decisions in a Two Out of Three Falls match. On September 11, 2009, in the World Stars of Wrestling (WSW) European Championship events in [[Portimão|Portimão, Portugal]], Van Dam won the WSW World Championship, by defeating [[Joe Hitchen|Joe E. Legend]]. On the following night he defended his newly won title against [[Lance Cade]].

On January 30, 2010, Van Dam made his debut for [[Pro Wrestling Guerrilla]] (PWG) as part of [[WrestleReunion#WrestleReunion 4|WrestleReunion 4]], defeating [[Chris Hero]] and [[Roderick Strong]] in a "Sky High" three-way match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/44720/pro-wrestling-guerrilla-kurt-russellmania-in-los-angeles-ca-live-report.html?p=1|title=PWG Kurt Russellmania in Los Angeles Live Report: RVD, London, Kendrick, Hero, Liger, Muta, Strong and much more|date=January 30, 2010|last=Johnson|first=Mike|access-date=January 31, 2010|publisher=PWInsider}}</ref>

=== Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2010–2013) ===

==== TNA World Heavyweight Champion and EV 2.0 (2010–2011) ====

On March 8, 2010, Van Dam made his debut for [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]] (TNA) at the promotion's [[TNA Impact!'s move to Monday nights|Monday night episode]] of ''[[Impact! (TV series)|Impact!]]'', defeating [[Sting (wrestler)|Sting]]. Then just seconds after his debut victory Sting attacked him and later [[Hulk Hogan]] with his signature baseball bat.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_39660.shtml|title=TNA Impact Results 3/8: Keller's live ongoing report covering the historic beginning of Monday Night War II|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=March 8, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=March 9, 2010}}</ref> Van Dam got his revenge on Sting the following week by attacking him during his entrance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_39854.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Report 3/15: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV show - A.J. Styles vs. Jeff Hardy|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 15, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=March 24, 2010}}</ref> Van Dam teamed with [[Jeff Hardy]] in a tag team match, where they defeated [[Beer Money, Inc.]] ([[Bobby Roode|Robert Roode]] and [[James Storm]]) on the March 22 episode of ''Impact!''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_40040.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact Report 3/22: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast|last=Wilkenfeld|first=Daniel|date=October 22, 2009|access-date=October 24, 2009|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following week the two of them teamed with [[Eric Young (wrestler)|Eric Young]] and defeated [[New World Order (professional wrestling)|The Band]] ([[Kevin Nash]], [[Scott Hall (wrestler)|Scott Hall]] and [[Sean Waltman|Syxx-Pac]]) in a six-man tag team steel cage match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1269919705|title=Impact Results - 3/29/10|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=March 29, 2010|publisher=WrestleView|access-date=March 30, 2010}}</ref>  At [[Lockdown (2010)|Lockdown]] on April 18, both Van Dam and Hardy became members of Team Hogan (joining [[Abyss (wrestler)|Abyss]] and [[Jeff Jarrett]]) for the annual [[Lethal Lockdown match]], where they defeated Team Flair (Sting, [[Nigel McGuinness|Desmond Wolfe]], Robert Roode and James Storm).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_40725.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Lockdown Results 4/18: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of PPV - Styles vs. The Pope, Team Hogan vs. Team Flair, Angle vs. Anderson|first=James|last=Caldwell|date=April 18, 2010|access-date=April 18, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

The night after Lockdown he first defeated Jeff Hardy in a number one contender's match and then, in the main event of the evening, [[A.J. Styles]] to become the new [[TNA World Heavyweight Championship|TNA World Heavyweight Champion]].<ref name=Impact04192010>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_40756.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact Report 4/19: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast--Whole F'n New Champion|first=Daniel|last=Wilkenfeld|date=April 19, 2010|access-date=April 20, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> After succeeding in his first televised title defense against Desmond Wolfe, Styles attacked Van Dam, announcing the invocation of the rematch clause for [[TNA Sacrifice (2010)|Sacrifice]] on May 16.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41070.shtml|title=TNA Impact Results 5/3: Keller's ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live show from Orlando|first=Wade|last=Keller|author-link=Wade Keller|date=May 3, 2010|access-date=May 8, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At Sacrifice Van Dam defeated Styles in a rematch.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_41360.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Sacrifice results 5/16: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of PPV - RVD vs. Styles, Jeff Hardy vs. Mr. Anderson|date=May 16, 2010|access-date=May 16, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following month at [[Slammiversary VIII]] on June 13 Van Dam retained his title against Sting in a rematch of his TNA debut.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_41923.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Slammiversary results 6/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - RVD vs. Sting, Hardy & Anderson, "nice surprise"|date=June 13, 2010|access-date=June 13, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam defeated Abyss, Jeff Hardy and [[Mr. Kennedy|Mr. Anderson]] in a four-way match to retain the TNA World Heavyweight Championship at [[Victory Road (2010)|Victory Road]] on July 11.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_42443.shtml|title=TNA Victory Road results 7/11: Keller's ongoing "virtual time" coveage [sic] of live PPV event|date=July 11, 2010|access-date=July 11, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Impact!'' Van Dam aligned himself with fellow ECW alumni Tommy Dreamer, [[Raven (wrestler)|Raven]], [[Stevie Richards]], [[Terry Gerin|Rhino]], [[Devon Hughes|Brother Devon]], [[Pat Kenney]], [[Al Snow]] and [[Mick Foley]], who saved him from a beating at the hands of Abyss.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_42456.shtml|title=TNA News: TNA Impact TV taping "virtual-time coverage" for Thursday's episode|date=July 12, 2010|access-date=July 13, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279001038 |title=Spoilers: TNA Impact for this Thursday |date=July 13, 2010 |access-date=July 13, 2010 |last=Martin |first=Adam |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428050636/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279001038 |archive-date=April 28, 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279252015 |title=Impact Results - 7/15/10 |date=July 15, 2010 |last=Martin |first=Adam |work=WrestleView |access-date=July 16, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100719090613/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279252015 |archive-date=July 19, 2010 }}</ref>

The following week, TNA president [[Dixie Carter (wrestling)|Dixie Carter]] agreed to give the ECW alumni their own reunion pay–per–view event, [[Hardcore Justice (2010)|Hardcore Justice]] on August 8.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42665.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact report 7/22: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast|date=July 22, 2010|access-date=August 5, 2010|last=Wilkenfeld|first=Daniel|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At Hardcore Justice, Van Dam defeated former tag team partner and rival Sabu in a non-title Hardcore Rules match, after his originally planned match with Jerry Lynn was scrapped due to Lynn suffering a back injury.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_42979.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Hardcore Justice PPV results 8/8: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of ECW-themed PPV headlined by RVD vs. Sabu|first=James|last=Caldwell|date=August 8, 2010|access-date=August 8, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> After successfully defending the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Abyss in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Weapon-based variations|Stairway to Janice match]] on the following special edition of ''Impact!'', named ''[[The Whole F'n Show]]'', Van Dam and the other former ECW wrestlers were assaulted by Abyss and {{Not a typo|[[Fortune (professional wrestling)|Fourtune]]}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_43008.shtml|title=TNA News: Spoilers - detailed Impact TV taping report for "Whole F'n Show" featuring new angle, MOTY candidate?, three title matches|first=Kevin|last=Tomich|date=August 9, 2010|access-date=August 10, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/08/12/15010951.html|title=TNA's 'The Whole F'n Show': Beer Money, Machine Guns put on match of year candidate; Fortune makes statement|first=Matt|last=Bishop|date=August 12, 2010|access-date=August 13, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629172343/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/08/12/15010951.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> In the attack Van Dam suffered multiple serious [[Kayfabe|storyline]] injuries at the hands of Abyss including the need for stitches, spinal trauma and possible acute brain damage, which would force him to vacate the TNA World Heavyweight Championship on August 10 at the taping of the August 19 episode of ''Impact!''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/content/view/17074/|title=TNA title vacated - spoiler|date=August 10, 2010|access-date=August 10, 2010|work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_43030.shtml|title=TNA News: Spoilers - big news & notes from today's Impact TV taping for Aug. 19 episode, management's reaction to EV2.0 angle|date=August 10, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=August 11, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_43238.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact report 8/19: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast|first=Daniel|last=Wilkenfeld|date=August 19, 2010|access-date=August 19, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> In reality, Van Dam was running out of dates per year on his contract and was therefore taken off television.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1282779729|title=Update on RVD's contractual status with TNA|last=Gerweck|first=Steve|date=August 25, 2010|access-date=August 26, 2010|work=WrestleView|archive-date=August 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805171859/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1282779729|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[File:Matt Hardy v RVD.jpg|thumb|right|upright=1.13|Van Dam (left) taking on [[Matt Hardy]] in 2011]]
Van Dam returned via telephone interview on the September 16 episode of ''Impact!'' and announced that he would return to the Impact! Zone the following week, against his doctor's orders.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_43829.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact report 9/16: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV show with Jeff Hardy vs. Kurt Angle|last=Keller|first=Wade|date=September 16, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 17, 2010}}</ref> Van Dam returned the following week, confronting Abyss and demanding a match against him at [[Bound for Glory (2010)|Bound for Glory]] on October 10, which Eric Bischoff agreed to give him.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44002.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact report 9/23: Ongoing coverage of Spike TV cablecast including Bound for Glory hype|last=Keller|first=Wade|date=September 23, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 24, 2010}}</ref> At Bound for Glory Van Dam defeated Abyss in a [[Monster's Ball match]]. At the end of Bound for Glory it was revealed that [[Hulk Hogan]] and Eric Bischoff had sent Abyss after Van Dam in order to get the TNA World Heavyweight Championship on their own representative, Jeff Hardy. Van Dam confronted the group, later named [[Immortal (professional wrestling)|Immortal]], after Hardy had won the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, only to get hit with the title belt.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_44417.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Bound for Glory PPV results 10-10-10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Angle vs. Anderson vs. Hardy, "they" reveal|date=October 10, 2010|access-date=October 10, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the October 21 episode of ''Impact!'' Bischoff claimed that someone from EV 2.0 had been calling him, trying to get to be a part of Immortal, which led to Van Dam getting paranoid about his stablemates, first accusing Raven of being the traitor. Later, he and Sabu were defeated in a tag team match by Beer Money, Inc., after Sabu accidentally hit him with a chair. After the match Van Dam and Sabu began shoving each other and had to be separated from each other by the rest of EV 2.0.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44696.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact report 10/21: Complete "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV's live broadcast|date=October 21, 2010|access-date=October 22, 2010|last=Wilkenfeld|first=Daniel|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> After two more weeks of dissension between Van Dam and the rest of EV 2.0, Tommy Dreamer challenged him to a match at [[Turning Point (2010 wrestling)|Turning Point]] on November 7.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44882.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact report 10/28: Complete "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV's live broadcast|date=October 28, 2010|access-date=November 4, 2010|last=Wilkenfeld|first=Daniel|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45047.shtml|title=Wilkenfeld's TNA Impact report 11/4: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Spike TV broadcast|date=November 4, 2010|access-date=November 4, 2010|last=Wilkenfeld|first=Daniel|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At Turning Point Van Dam defeated Dreamer and afterwards made peace with him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_45110.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Turning Point PPV results 11/7: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Hardy vs. Morgan, EV2 vs. Fortune, Team 3D "retirement" match|date=November 7, 2010|access-date=November 7, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Impact!'' Rhino turned heel by attacking Van Dam and Dreamer, revealing himself as the traitor Van Dam had been looking for.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45232.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact results 11/11: Styles vs. Stevie, Turning Point fallout, New TNA belt introduced by Hogan|date=November 11, 2010|access-date=November 12, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At [[Final Resolution (2010)|Final Resolution]] on December 5 Van Dam defeated Rhino in a [[Professional wrestling match types#First Blood match|First Blood match]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_45809.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Final Resolution PPV results 12/5: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Hardy vs. Morgan II, several title and stipulation matches|first=James|last=Caldwell|date=December 5, 2010|access-date=December 5, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

==== Championship pursuits (2011–2012) ====
On January 4, 2011, Van Dam traveled to Japan with other TNA wrestlers to take part [[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]]'s (NJPW) fifth annual ''[[January 4 Dome Show#Wrestle Kingdom V in Tokyo Dome|Wrestle Kingdom in Tokyo Dome]]'', where he defeated [[Toru Yano]] in a hardcore match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=132|script-title=ja:レッスルキングダムV ｉｎ 東京ドーム|work=[[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]]|access-date=January 4, 2011|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_46511.shtml|title=TNA News: Tokyo Dome Show results - Jeff Hardy defends TNA World Title, Beer Money challenges for IWGP Tag Titles, RVD vs. Yano|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=January 4, 2011|access-date=January 4, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At [[Genesis (2011)|Genesis]] on January 9, Van Dam was defeated by Immortal's surprise opponent, the debuting Matt Hardy, when referee [[Garett Bischoff|Jackson James]] missed Van Dam's foot under the ropes, thus failing to earn a shot at his brother Jeff's TNA World Heavyweight Championship. During the main event Van Dam prevented Matt from interfering in Jeff's match with Mr. Anderson, which led to Jeff losing the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_46645.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Genesis PPV results 1/9: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Morgan vs. Anderson #1 contender, four title matches, RVD mystery opponent|date=January 9, 2011|access-date=January 9, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following month at [[TNA Against All Odds (2011)|Against All Odds]] on February 13, Van Dam defeated Matt Hardy in a rematch.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_47702.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Against All Odds PPV results 2/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Anderson vs. Hardy, Genesis re-matches, fluid X Division situation|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=February 13, 2011|access-date=February 13, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Impact!'', Van Dam finally received his shot at Jeff Hardy and the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, but was unable to regain the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_47818.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact report 2/17: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Impact on Spike TV - Against All Odds fall-out, Flair's TV return, TNA World Title match|date=February 17, 2011|access-date=February 18, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On March 13 at [[Victory Road (2011)|Victory Road]], Van Dam wrestled Mr. Anderson to a double countout in a TNA World Heavyweight Championship number one contender's match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_48441.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Victory Road PPV results 3/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Sting vs. Hardy TNA Title match|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 13, 2011|access-date=March 13, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On April 17 at [[Lockdown (2011)|Lockdown]], Van Dam failed in his attempt to regain the TNA World Heavyweight Championship from Sting in a three–way steel cage match, which also included Anderson.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_49368.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Lockdown PPV results 4/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live all-cage match PPV - Sting vs. Anderson vs. RVD, Angle vs. Jarrett|first=James|last=Caldwell|date=April 17, 2011|access-date=April 17, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following month at [[TNA Sacrifice (2011)|Sacrifice]] on May 15, Van Dam again failed to regain the title, this time in a singles match with Sting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_50080.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Sacrifice PPV results 5/15: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Sting vs. RVD, four title matches, Chyna PPV return|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 15, 2011|access-date=May 15, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

Van Dam represented TNA at Mexican promotion [[Lucha Libre AAA World Wide|AAA]]'s [[Triplemanía XIX]] pay-per-view on June 18, 2011. In the main event of the show, Van Dam was defeated by [[Dr. Wagner, Jr.]] in a match to determine the first ever [[AAA Latin American Championship|AAA Latin American Champion]].<ref>{{cite web | url= http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/3-news/21056-full-aaa-triplemania-results-from-last-night-courtesy-kris-zellner | title= Full AAA TripleMania results from last night courtesy Kris Zellner | author=Zellner, Kris | date=June 19, 2011 | access-date= June 19, 2011 | work=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> At [[Destination X (2011)|Destination X]] on July 10, Van Dam defeated longtime rival Jerry Lynn in a singles match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51335.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Destination X PPV results 7/10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Styles vs. Daniels, Ultimate X, RVD vs. Lynn|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=July 10, 2011|access-date=July 11, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On August 7 at [[Hardcore Justice (2011)|Hardcore Justice]], Van Dam, at the time ranked number two in the [[Bound for Glory Series#2011|Bound for Glory Series]], faced [[Tommy Mercer|Crimson]], ranked number one, in a tournament match. Van Dam lost the match via disqualification, when Jerry Lynn entered the ring, costing him not only the match, but also several places in the tournament's standings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51958.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Hardcore Justice PPV results 8/7: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Sting vs. Angle, five title matches, BFG Series matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 7, 2011|access-date=August 7, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Lynn cost Van Dam another Bound for Glory Series match against A.J. Styles in similar fashion on the August 18 ''Impact Wrestling''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/18/18573331.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629070454/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/18/18573331.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Impact: Flair finally returns to show|date=August 18, 2011|access-date=August 19, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Lynn turned on Van Dam on the September 1 ''Impact Wrestling'', costing him his match with [[Gunner (wrestler)|Gunner]] and, in the process, eliminating him from the finals of the Bound for Glory Series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_52654.shtml|title=TNA News: Impact Wrestling spoilers 9/1 - Bax's in-person results for next Thursday's episode|date=August 27, 2011|access-date=September 2, 2011|last=Baxendell|first=Matt|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following week Lynn explained his turn by claiming that he was tired of being in Van Dam's shadow.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_53099.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact report 9/8: Jeff Hardy returns, Anderson gets his title rematch against Angle, No Surrender final hype|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=September 9, 2011|access-date=September 9, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam defeated Lynn in a [[Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match#Total Nonstop Action Wrestling|Full Metal Mayhem match]] at [[Bound for Glory (2011)|Bound for Glory]] on October 16.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_54312.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Bound for Glory PPV results 10/16: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Angle-Roode, Hogan-Sting |date=October 16, 2011|access-date=October 16, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

On the October 27 episode of ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam defeated [[Christopher Daniels]] by disqualification after Daniels hit him with a toolbox.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article10021526.shtml|title=10/27 Kester's TNA Impact Wrestling Live Coverage Review: James Storms' first night as TNA Champion, number one contender's match for the TNA title, Jeff Hardy vs. Bully Ray, Christopher Daniels vs. Rob Van Dam, and more|website=prowrestling.net}}</ref> Two weeks later, Van Dam prevented Daniels from using a screwdriver to illegally defeat A.J. Styles in a singles match which would cost Daniels the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_55052.shtml|title=Keller's TNA Impact Wrestling report 11/10: Sting grants Storm a rematch against gloating heel Roode, plus Ronnie from Jersey Shore wrestles|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=November 10, 2011|access-date=December 14, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At [[Turning Point (2011 wrestling)|Turning Point]] on November 13, Van Dam defeated Daniels in a No Disqualification match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_55119.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Turning Point PPV results 11/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode-Styles, five title matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=November 13, 2011|access-date=December 14, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> In retaliation, Daniels cost him his match for the [[TNA Television Championship]] against [[Rob Strauss|Robbie E]] on the December 1 episode of ''Impact Wrestling''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_55657.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling report 12/1: Roode vs. Hardy vs. Styles main event, TV Title match, Consequences|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=December 1, 2011|access-date=December 14, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam defeated Daniels at [[Final Resolution (2011)|Final Resolution]] on December 11 again to end their feud.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_55904.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Final Resolution PPV results 12/11: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode-Styles, five title matches|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=December 11, 2011|access-date=December 11, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

After wrestling to a double countout on the January 5, 2012, edition of ''Impact Wrestling'', Gunner made a failed attempt to piledrive Van Dam into the concrete floor after Van Dam back body dropped him onto it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_56657.shtml|title=McQuade's TNA Impact Wrestling report 1/5: Review of final Genesis PPV hype, six-man tag main event, tournament finals|last=McQuade|first=Jay|date=January 5, 2012|access-date=January 8, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On January 8 at [[Genesis (2012)|Genesis]], Van Dam was defeated by Gunner and was afterwards stretchered backstage, after taking a DDT onto the concrete floor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_56739.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Genesis PPV results 1/8: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode-Hardy, Angle-Storm|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=January 8, 2012|access-date=January 8, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> After a near three-month absence Van Dam resumed working live events in late March.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_59324.shtml|title=RVD returning to TNA on weekend tour|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 20, 2012|access-date=March 27, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_59433.shtml|title=TNA News: Weekend Tour preview - RVD returns, Storm & G. Bischoff main event, two title matches, Reports Wanted|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 23, 2012|access-date=March 27, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam returned to ''Impact Wrestling'' on April 12, being revealed as the fifth member of [[Garett Bischoff]]'s team at [[Lockdown (2012)|Lockdown]] on April 15.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_60330.shtml|title=Turner's TNA Impact Wrestling results 4/12: Storm-Roode confrontation, ODB & Eric Young married in steel cage, final Lockdown hype|last=Turner|first=Scott|date=April 13, 2012|access-date=April 15, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At Lockdown, Team Garett defeated a team led by Eric Bischoff.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_60411.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Lockdown PPV results 4/15: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode-Storm main event, Angle-Hardy, Lethal Lockdown opener|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=April 15, 2012|access-date=April 15, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam defeated Jeff Hardy and Mr. Anderson in a three-way match to become the number one contender to the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_60315.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 4/19: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of Lockdown fall-out, Hogan's "big announcement"|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=April 19, 2012|access-date=April 20, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam received his title opportunity in a ladder match on May 13 at [[TNA Sacrifice (2012)|Sacrifice]], but was defeated by the defending champion, Bobby Roode.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_61356.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Sacrifice PPV results 5/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode-RVD main event, Angle-Styles, Hardy-Anderson |last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 13, 2012|access-date=May 13, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At [[Slammiversary (2012)|Slammiversary]] on June 10, Van Dam was defeated by Mr. Anderson in a three-way number one contender's match, also involving Jeff Hardy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_62289.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Slammiversary PPV results 6/10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Roode vs. Sting headlines 10th Anniv. PPV|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 10, 2012|access-date=June 10, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Later that week on ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam entered the [[Bound for Glory Series#2012|2012 Bound for Glory Series]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62447.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact Wrestling results 6/14: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - TNA World Title match, Ultimate X starts the show|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 14, 2012|access-date=June 14, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> At [[Hardcore Justice (2012)|Hardcore Justice]] on August 12, Van Dam defeated [[Magnus (wrestler)|Magnus]] and [[Ken Anderson (wrestler)|Mr. Anderson]] in a Falls Count Anywhere match. He wrestled his final match in the tournament on the September 6 ''Impact Wrestling'', losing to [[Mark LoMonaco|Bully Ray]], thus finishing fifth and narrowly missing the semifinals of the tournament.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_64933.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 9/6: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - BFG Series finale, "Championship Thursday" launch|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=September 6, 2012|access-date=September 6, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the October 4 episode of ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam unsuccessfully challenged [[Samoa Joe]] for the TNA Television Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_65719.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 10/4: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - King Mo's TV debut, Aries-Hardy latest PPV hype|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 4, 2012|access-date=October 4, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

==== X Division Champion (2012–2013) ====

The following week, Van Dam was allowed to pick his opponent for [[Bound for Glory (2012)|Bound for Glory]] on October 14 and opted to challenge [[Zema Ion]] for the [[TNA X Division Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_65888.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 10/11/12: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - final PPV hype, triple main event|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 11, 2012|access-date=October 11, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Van Dam defeated Ion to win the X Division Championship for the first time at Bound for Glory.<ref name=BFG2012>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_65938.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Bound for Glory PPV results 10/14: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV - Aries vs. Hardy, Storm vs. Roode|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=October 14, 2012|access-date=October 14, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the October 25 ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam made his first successful title defense, defeating Ion in a rematch. Following the win, he would be attacked by [[Matt Morgan (wrestler)|Matt Morgan]] and [[Joey Ryan (wrestler)|Joey Ryan]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1351217787 |title=Impact Results - 10/25/2012 |last=Boutwell |first=Josh |date=October 25, 2012 |access-date=October 25, 2012 |work=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028214716/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1351217787 |archive-date=October 28, 2012 }}</ref> The following week, Van Dam was defeated by Ryan in a non-title match after an interference from Matt Morgan. Afterwards, he would again be attacked by Morgan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_66341.shtml|title=Caldwell's TNA Impact results 11/1: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - Open Fight Night|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=November 1, 2012|access-date=November 1, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On November 11 at [[Turning Point (2012 wrestling)|Turning Point]], Van Dam defeated Ryan to retain the X Division Championship, after which, he would be attacked by Matt Morgan for the third consecutive time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_66565.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA TURNING POINT PPV RESULTS 11/11: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Hardy-Aries, top titles at-stake|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> Four days later on ''Impact Wrestling'', he successfully defended the title against [[Kid Kash]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_66663.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 11/15: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of post-PPV episode - Storm vs. Roode|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> Van Dam retained the X Division Championship against [[Austin Aries]] on November 29 after losing to him via disqualification, following interference from Bully Ray.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_66909.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 11/29: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Championship Thursday - X Title in main event, Hogan Knows Best?|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref>

Van Dam made another successful title defense on December 9 at [[Final Resolution (2012)|Final Resolution]], defeating [[Kenny King (wrestler)|Kenny King]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_67111.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA FINAL RESOLUTION PPV RESULTS 12/9: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Hardy vs. Roode in the main event, Aries vs. Bully|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam lost a non-title match to King, when King pinned him with his feet on the ropes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_67224.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 12/13: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of PPV fall-out episode|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> On January 13, 2013, at [[Genesis (2013)|Genesis]], Van Dam defeated [[Christian York]] to retain the X Division Championship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_67844.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA GENESIS PPV RESULTS 1/13: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV - Hardy defends TNA Title against two foes, two title matches, #1 contender matches|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> On the February 7 episode of ''Impact Wrestling'', Van Dam successfully defended the X Division Championship against Kenny King and Zema Ion in a three-way match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_68494.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 2/7: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Impact in the U.K. - Tag Title change, Sting & Bully main event, Aces & Eights lose again, Nash weighs in|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> Two weeks later, Van Dam defeated King again to retain his title.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_68834.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT REPORT 2/21: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Impact in the U.K. - new KO champ, Hogan's "decision" early contender for worst angle of the year (updated w/Box Score)|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> Van Dam lost the X Division Championship to King on the February 28 ''Impact Wrestling'', ending Van Dam's reign at 137 days.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_68961.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S TNA IMPACT RESULTS 2/28: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Impact - TNA & Jeff Hardy return to Orlando; Angle unmasks A&E member, but cameraman misses the shot|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> In March 2013, Van Dam's TNA contract expired and he did an interview about his future with TNA, stating that he would return to television in WWE or TNA, saying that he was negotiating with both companies.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_69393.shtml|title=TNA NEWS: Update on RVD's TNA standing, talks TNA vs. WWE|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> According to Van Dam, he lost his passion for professional wrestling during his work in TNA due to the attitude of his coworkers.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rob Van Dam: 'He perdido la pasión y la ambición que tenía por el wrestling' |url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/56167-rob-van-dam-he-perdido-la-pasion-y-la-ambicion-que-tenia-por-el-wrestling |access-date=September 29, 2020 |work=Solowrestling |date=October 26, 2016 |language=es}}</ref>

=== Return to WWE (2013−2014) ===
On June 16, 2013, at [[Payback (2013)|Payback]], it was announced that Van Dam would be returning at [[Money in the Bank (2013)|Money in the Bank]] as one of the participants in the [[Money in the Bank ladder match|WWE Championship Money in the Bank ladder match]] along with Christian, [[CM Punk]], [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]], Randy Orton, and [[Sheamus]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71316.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE PAYBACK PPV RESULTS 6/16 (Hour 1): Axel captures IC Title in opening match, A.J. captures Divas Title, RVD returning to WWE|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_71502.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 6/24 (Hour 3): Punk in singles action, MITB match participants announced, Bryan vs. Orton main event represents major career moment for Bryan|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> however, the match was ultimately won by Orton on July 14.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71944.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE MITB PPV RESULTS 7/14 (Hour 3): Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV - Cena vs. Henry, MITB All-Stars|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref> In his first singles match for the company since 2007, Van Dam defeated [[Chris Jericho]] the following night on ''Raw''. He would then go on a short winning streak defeating the likes of [[Darren Young]], [[Fandango (wrestler)|Fandango]] and [[Wade Barrett]] which would lead to a United States Championship opportunity against [[Dean Ambrose]] on the [[SummerSlam (2013)|SummerSlam]] pre-show on August 18 which Van Dam would win via disqualification which meant Ambrose retained the title. Van Dam was then put in a feud with the then-[[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Champion]] [[Alberto Del Rio]], including Del Rio's personal announcer Ricardo Rodriguez becoming Van Dam's announcer, facing Del Rio at [[Night of Champions (2013)|Night of Champions]] on September 15 (winning via disqualification) and [[Battleground (2013)|Battleground]] on October 6, but he could not win the title.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_73320.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE NOC PPV RESULTS 9/15 (Hour 1): Del Rio vs. RVD World Title match, plus IC & Divas Title matches, Hunter-Heyman opens the PPV|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_73741.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - BATTLEGROUND PPV RESULTS 10/6 (Hour 1): World Title match opens the PPV, plus IC Title & Divas Title matches|website=www.pwtorch.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/node/26153180/is-rob-van-dam-going-to-take-time-off-from-wwe-26154024|title=Raw: October 7, 2013|website=WWE}}{{Dead link|date=October 2022 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> After this match, Van Dam took a sabbatical from television.

[[File:Rob van dam 2014.jpg|thumb|upright|Van Dam in April 2014]]
Van Dam returned to WWE on the April 7, 2014, episode of ''Raw'', defeating [[Damien Sandow]] and would later defeat him once more in a rematch on the following ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_77571.shtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715105830/https://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_77571.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/7: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - WM30 fall-out, WWE Title match teaser, Bryan's first night as champ, Warrior, more|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=James|last=Caldwell|date=April 7, 2014|archive-date=July 15, 2014|access-date=February 7, 2019}}</ref> Shortly after, he entered into an [[List of WWE tournaments#WWE Intercontinental Championship|WWE Intercontinental Championship tournament]], defeating [[Alberto Del Rio]] in the first round and [[Antonio Cesaro|Cesaro]] in the semifinals but lost in the final round to [[Wade Barrett|Bad News Barrett]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tucker|first1=Ben|title=Instant Reaction - Raw: 4/21: Daniel Bryan returns under tough circumstances, and more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/The_Specialists_34/article_77916.shtml|website=PWTorch.com|access-date=January 22, 2015}}</ref> Following this he entered into a feud with Cesaro and Jack Swagger, having gained pinfall victories over both men in the lead up to [[Extreme Rules (2014)|Extreme Rules]] on May 4, where Van Dam would go on to lose to Cesaro and [[Jack Swagger]] in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Non-elimination matches with three competitors|Triple Threat Elimination match]], which was won by Cesaro after pinning Van Dam last, who had pinned Swagger first. Following Extreme Rules, Van Dam would once more go on to defeat Cesaro and Jack Swagger on separate occasions in rematches on both ''Raw'' and ''SmackDown''. On the May 19 edition of ''Raw'', Van Dam won a [[Professional wrestling match types#Beat the Clock challenge|Beat the Clock challenge match]] by defeating Alberto Del Rio in the fastest time, to become the top contender for the Intercontinental Championship at [[Payback (2014)|Payback]] on June 1,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_78499.shtml#.VTOPWSGeDGc |title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 5/19: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of London Raw - fate of WWE World Title announced, Batista vs. Rollins, Beat the Clock, Wyatts-Cena, more |publisher=PWTorch.com |date=May 19, 2014 |access-date=April 24, 2015}}</ref> although he lost to Barrett at Payback. On the June 16 episode of ''Raw'', Van Dam competed in a Battle Royal with the winner gaining a WWE World Heavyweight Championship opportunity, the match was won by [[Roman Reigns]].<ref>{{cite web| url = http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_78756.shtml| title = CALDWELL'S WWE PAYBACK PPV RESULTS 6/1: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV - Bryan's Decision, Shield vs. Evolution "Final Battle," Cena vs. Wyatt| last = Caldwell| first = James| date = June 1, 2014| website = Pro Wrestling Torch| access-date = December 23, 2015}}</ref> At [[Money in the Bank (2014)|Money in the Bank]] on June 29, Van Dam took part in the Money in the Bank Ladder match for the briefcase, but was won by Seth Rollins.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Linder|first1=Zach|title=Seth Rollins won the Money in the Bank Contract Ladder Match|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2014/money-in-the-bank-contract-ladder-match|publisher=WWE|access-date=June 11, 2017}}</ref> At [[SummerSlam (2014)|SummerSlam]] on August 17, Van Dam defeated Cesaro during the pre-show.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Clapp|first1=John|title=Rob Van Dam vs. Cesaro (Kickoff Match)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2014/rob-van-dam-cesaro-kickoff-26571861|publisher=WWE|access-date=August 16, 2014}}</ref> Following SummerSlam, Van Dam would go on to team with Roman Reigns and Sheamus in a six-man tag team match in a winning effort against [[Randy Orton]], [[Ryback]] and [[Curtis Axel]] on the August 18 episode of ''Raw''. After defeating Seth Rollins by countout on the August 26 edition of ''Main Event'', Van Dam's final match with WWE was on the August 29 episode of ''SmackDown'', where he faced Rollins in a losing effort.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/50476-wwe-smackdown-results-8-29-14-six-man-tag-match/|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 8/29/14 (Six Man Tag Match)|publisher=WrestleView|first=Paul|last=Nemer|date=August 30, 2014|access-date=February 24, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/87861/rob-van-damwwe-update.html?p=1|title=ROB VAN DAM-WWE UPDATE {{pipe}} PWInsider.com|website=www.pwinsider.com}}</ref> He made an appearance at the [[Slammy Award#2014 Slammy Awards|2014 Slammy Awards]] to present the Slammy Award for Extreme Moment of the Year.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2015/12/21/wwe-raw-flashback-the-2014-slammy-awards-charlotte-debuts/|title=WWE Raw Flashback: The 2014 Slammy Awards, Charlotte debuts|date=December 21, 2015|access-date=April 28, 2018|website=ProWrestling.net|publisher=Last Row Media LLC.}}</ref>

=== Second return to the independent circuit (2015–present) ===
In 2015, Van Dam appeared at many circuit shows including one night appearances at [[House of Hardcore]]. On June 7, 2015, Van Dam performed at [[Citi Field]] for the Legends of Wrestling and defeated [[Scott Steiner]] by pinfall. During a post match attacked by Steiner and [[Doc Gallows]], [[Bill Goldberg|Goldberg]] would come to his aid and spear Steiner.<ref name=Wrestlezone>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/585763-gallery-goldberg-hits-the-ring-at-legends-of-wrestling-photos-of-ric-flair-rvd-dreamer-steiner-bret-hart-more-from-this-weekends-event|title=Goldberg hits the ring at Lengends of Wrestling|date=June 7, 2015|access-date=June 7, 2015}}</ref> Van Dam faced [[John Morrison (wrestler)|John Morrison]] at Pro Wrestling Syndicate in Rahway, New Jersey, on October 24, 2015, in a losing effort. After the match, Morrison shook hands with Van Dam and led the crowd in an "RVD" chant.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Clark|first1=Ryan|title=Rob Van Dam vs. John 'Morrison' Hennigan Booked For PWS Event|url=http://www.prowrestling.com/rob-van-dam-vs-john-morrison-hennigan-booked-for-pws-event/|website=ProWrestling.com|access-date=December 7, 2015|date=September 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Paglino|first1=Nick|title=Who Won the First Ever RVD vs John Morrison Match?, 16 Ugly Landings (Video), WWE Breaking Ground Premiering Today|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/634123-rvd-vs-john-morrison-match-result|website=Wrestlezone|access-date=December 7, 2015|date=October 25, 2015}}</ref> Van Dam would compete for [[Pro Wrestling Pride]] (PWP) in June 2016, defeating then [[PWP Catch Division Championship|PWP Catch Division Champion]] Scotty Essex in [[Taunton]], [[England]]. Van Dam faced [[Pentagón Jr.]] for PCW Heavyweight Championship at [[PCW Ultra]] in Torrance, California, on November 11, 2016, in a winning effort, it was his first championship after he left WWE in 2014. Van Dam was scheduled to compete in a 128-man tournament starting from June 10, 2017, hosted by [[5 Star Wrestling]], which was later postponed to February 2018. On July 30, Van Dam was announced to compete at [[Insane Championship Wrestling]] (ICW) Fear & Loathing X against [[Lionheart (UK wrestler)|Lionheart]].

=== Return to Impact Wrestling (2019–2020) ===
[[File:Rob van dam 2019.jpg|thumb|In 2019, Van Dam made his return to Impact Wrestling.]]
On February 8, 2019, it was revealed that Van Dam would return to TNA, now named [[Impact Wrestling]] at their [[WrestleMania 35]]-weekend show, [[United We Stand (2019)|United We Stand]]. At United We Stand on April 4, 2019, he teamed with Sabu and faced [[Lucha Brothers|Lucha Bros]] (Pentagón Jr. and [[Fénix (wrestler)|Fénix]]) in a hardcore match.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://impactwrestling.com/rvd-and-sabu-return-to-impact-at-united-we-stand/|title=RVD and Sabu Return to IMPACT at United We Stand|date=February 9, 2019|access-date=February 9, 2019|work=Impact Wrestling|archive-date=September 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190906075538/https://impactwrestling.com/rvd-and-sabu-return-to-impact-at-united-we-stand/|url-status=dead}}</ref> After indicating in interviews that he would be working with the company more, on April 3, Van Dam announced that he had signed a short-term deal with Impact and would be appearing on their programming following United We Stand.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/rob-van-dam-signs-deal-impact-wrestling|title=Rob Van Dam Signs Deal With IMPACT Wrestling {{pipe}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com}}</ref> His contract initially ran through [[Bound for Glory (2019)|Bound for Glory]] in October.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/rob-van-dam-makes-cameo-wwe-raw-reunion-contract-impact-runs-through-bound-glory|title=Rob Van Dam Makes Cameo At WWE Raw Reunion; Contract With IMPACT Runs Through Bound For Glory {{pipe}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com}}</ref> His return to Impact television occurred in late-April, where he defeated [[Ethan Page]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/spoilers-impact-wrestling-tv-taping-toronto-429-rob-van-dam-returns-lucha-bros-more|title=SPOILERS: IMPACT Wrestling TV Taping From Toronto (4/29): Rob Van Dam Returns, Lucha Bros, More {{pipe}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com}}</ref> Van Dam then formed an alliance with ECW alumni [[Tommy Dreamer]] and [[Sabu (wrestler)|Sabu]] to feud with Page, [[Josh Alexander (wrestler)|Josh Alexander]] and [[Moose (wrestler)|Moose]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/rob-van-dam-tommy-dreamer-sabu-battle-moose-north-531-impact-wrestling|title=Rob Van Dam, Tommy Dreamer, & Sabu Battle Moose & The North On 5/31 IMPACT Wrestling {{pipe}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com}}</ref> The trio would defeat Moose, Page and Alexander in a six-man tag.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/tna-news/impact-wrestling-tv-taping-spoilers-rvd-teams-sabu-dreamer-283106|title=Impact Wrestling TV taping spoilers: RVD teams with Sabu & Dreamer|date=May 5, 2019|website=WON/F4W - WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, UFC News, UFC results}}</ref> At [[Bash at the Brewery]] in July, Van Dam defeated [[Sami Callihan]] in an Extreme Rules match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/tna-results/impact-bash-brewery-results-rvd-vs-sami-callihan-287366|title=Impact Bash at the Brewery results: RVD vs. Sami Callihan|date=July 6, 2019|website=WON/F4W - WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, UFC News, UFC results}}</ref> A few days later, the storyline between Moose and Van Dam came to a close, as Moose defeated Van Dam at [[Slammiversary XVII]].<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://impactwrestling.com/impact-wrestling-results-aftermath-of-slammiversary/|title = IMPACT Wrestling Results - Aftermath of Slammiversary|date = July 13, 2019|access-date = July 24, 2019|archive-date = July 21, 2019|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190721043133/https://impactwrestling.com/impact-wrestling-results-aftermath-of-slammiversary/|url-status = dead}}</ref>
On October 20, 2019, on [[Bound for Glory (2019)|Bound for Glory]], Van Dam teamed with [[Rhyno (wrestler)|Rhino]] where they challenged for the [[Impact World Tag Team Championship]]. At the climax of the match, Van Dam turned heel for the first time in his Impact Wrestling career, as well as his first heel turn since being a member of the Alliance during his WWF/E career, by attacking Rhino, [[Willie Mack]], and [[Rich Swann]], losing the match in the process.<ref name="BFG2019">{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=10/20 Powell's Impact Wrestling Bound For Glory live review: Brian Cage vs. Sami Callihan for the Impact World Championship, Ken Shamrock vs. Moose, Taya Valkyrie vs. Tenille Dashwood for the Knockouts Championship, The North vs. RVD and Rhino vs. Rich Swann and Willie Mack for the Impact Tag Titles|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/10/20/10-20-powells-impact-wrestling-bound-for-glory-live-review-brian-cage-vs-sami-callihan-for-the-impact-world-championship-ken-shamrock-vs-moose-taya-valkyrie-vs-tenille-dashwood-for-the-knockou/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=October 20, 2019|access-date=October 20, 2019}}</ref> During early 2020, Van Dam was part of a censorious heel stable called "Cancel Culture" along with [[Joey Ryan (wrestler)|Joey Ryan]] and [[Jake Crist]]. However, this story abruptly ended when Ryan's contract was terminated amid over a dozen allegations of sexual assault. His last storyline with Impact Wrestling was with Sami Callihan, whom Van Dam defeated in his final match for the promotion which aired on September 22, 2020, edition of ''Impact!''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/impact-results/168012-impact-results-september-22-2020/|title = IMPACT Results - 9/22/20 (Tenille Dashwood vs. Jordynne Grace, Victory Road announced) -|date = September 23, 2020}}</ref> before leaving the promotion in September 2020.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Johnson |first1=Mike |title=Stars Depart Impact Wrestling |url=https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=139936 |access-date=December 28, 2020 |work=www.pwinsider.com |date=September 28, 2020}}</ref>

=== Second return to WWE and sporadic appearances (2019–2023, 2024) ===
Despite his association with Impact Wrestling, Van Dam made a one-night return to WWE for the special [[List of WWE Raw special episodes|Raw Reunion]] episode of ''Raw'' on July 22, 2019.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sescoops.com/rvd-makes-appearance-alongside-legends-on-wwe-raw-reunion/|title=RVD Makes Appearance Alongside Legends On WWE RAW Reunion|newspaper=Se Scoops &#124; Wrestling News, Results & Interviews |date=July 23, 2019}}</ref>

Following heavy speculation, it was announced by WWE and [[Fox Sports (United States)|Fox Sports]] on March 29 that Van Dam would be an inductee into the [[WWE Hall of Fame (2021)|2021]] [[WWE Hall of Fame]] class.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-hall-of-fame/wwe-hall-of-fame-2021/article/rob-van-dam-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-2021|title = Rob van Dam to be inducted into WWE Hall of Fame}}</ref> He later made an appearance at the 2022 Hall of Fame ceremony.

On April 28, 2023, Van Dam appeared on Friday Night SmackDown to announce second round WWE draft picks for RAW. He would appear the next week on RAW, May 1, to announce the fourth round draft picks for Friday Night SmackDown.

On September 13, 2024, Van Dam was shown in attendance for SmackDown's return to the [[USA Network]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nash |first=Anthony |date=September 14, 2024 |title=Vickie Guerrero, Rob Van Dam, William Regal, More Attend WWE SmackDown |url=https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/1504654-vickie-guerrero-rob-van-dam-william-regal-more-attend-wwe-smackdown |access-date=September 14, 2024 |website=Wrestlezone |language=en-US}}</ref>

Van Dam appeared on the October 29, 2024 episode of ''[[WWE NXT|NXT]]'' to say that he would be appearing at [[NXT 2300|''NXT'' 2300]].<ref name="f921">{{cite web | last=DeFelice | first=Robert | title=Rob Van Dam Tells Ava He Wants To Participate In NXT Show At The ECW Arena | website=Fightful News | date=October 29, 2024 | url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/rob-van-dam-tells-ava-he-wants-participate-nxt-show-ecw-arena | access-date=October 29, 2024}}</ref>

=== Pro Wrestling Noah (2022) ===
On April 30, 2022, it was announced that Van Dam would make his in-ring debut in [[CyberFight]]'s [[Pro Wrestling Noah]] on June 12, at the [[CyberFight Festival 2022]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=April 30, 2022 |title=ROB VAN DAM HEADING TO PRO WRESTLING NOAH |url=https://pwinsider.com/article/158421/rob-van-dam-heading-to-pro-wrestling-noah.html?p=1 |access-date=May 10, 2022 |website=[[PWInsider]]}}</ref> He was scheduled to team with the [[Stinger (professional wrestling)|Stinger]] duo of [[Hayata (wrestler)|Hayata]] and [[Yoshinari Ogawa]] to face [[Kaito Kiyomiya]], [[Daisuke Harada]] and [[Yo-Hey]].

===All Elite Wrestling (2023–2024)===
On August 2, 2023, Van Dam made his debut in [[All Elite Wrestling]] (AEW), appearing on ''[[AEW Dynamite]]'' to challenge [[FTW Champion]] [["Jungle Boy" Jack Perry|Jack Perry]] on behalf of longtime rival [[Jerry Lynn]]. On the following week's ''Dynamite'', Van Dam unsuccessfully challenged Perry for his championship title in an [[Professional wrestling match types#No Disqualification match|FTW Rules match]]. Van Dam then made several further appearances teaming with [[Hook (wrestler)|Hook]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rose |first1=Bryan|date=September 23, 2023 |title=RVD & Hook vs. Angelo Parker & Matt Menard added to AEW Collision |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/rvd-hook-vs-angelo-parker-matt-menard-added-to-aew-collision |work=WON/F4W |access-date=December 8, 2023}}</ref>

On the January 31, 2024, episode of ''Dynamite'', Van Dam returned to AEW in a losing effort against [[Swerve Strickland]] in a [[hardcore match]]. Van Dam would later slate fans who had questioned whether or not he could "still go" at his age against Strickland.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Skudder |first=Jake |date=February 1, 2024 |title=AEW News: Rob Van Dam Addresses Haters After Dynamite |url=https://fightfans.co.uk/aew/aew-news/rob-van-dam-dynamite-haters-still-go-aew-news/ |access-date=February 1, 2024 |website=FightFans |language=en-GB}}</ref> On the February 21 episode of ''Dynamite'', Van Dam teamed with Hook and [["Hangman" Adam Page]] in a losing effort against [[AEW World Championship|AEW World Champion]] [[Samoa Joe]] and [[Mogul Embassy]] (Strickland and [[Brian Cage]]). On the April 20 episode of ''[[AEW Rampage]]'', Van Dam picked up his first singles victory in AEW, defeating [[Isiah Kassidy]], [[Komander]], and [[Lee Johnson (wrestler)|Lee Johnson]] in a "High Flying [[4/20 (cannabis culture)|4/20]]" [[Four-Way Elimination match|four-way elimination match]].