Could Carlito Return to the WWE Soon?

We all remember Carlito—the apple-biting, colorful trunks wearing, Caribbean King of Cool from his stint in the WWE between 2004 and 2010.

When Carlito, real name Carly Colon, was released from his contract for a "violation of the company's drug testing program and subsequent refusal to attend a rehabilitation facility for a reported addiction to painkillers," many doubted the possibility we'd see his lively character back in a WWE ring any time soon (via Wrestling Inc).

But according to a new report in Power Slam magazine, perhaps a return to the company may be on the cards for Colon in the near future (via Wrestling Inc).

The story claims that "Carlito has an open offer to return to WWE, whenever he desires."

Before fans of the Bad Apple get their hopes up though, it is also noted that Colon is enjoying his time wrestling independent circuits and may persist with his individual aspirations.

But with Vince McMahon seemingly interested in bringing the second generation wrestler back to the WWE, anything is surely possible.

Carlito debuted for the company in 2004, defeating John Cena for the United States Championship in his very first match.

Though he never ascended to the top of the WWE ladder, he was a regular feature on the midcard also winning the Intercontinental Championship during his stint.

In 2006 he was named the 27th best wrestler in the world in the annual Pro Wrestling Illustrated Top 500, one place behind Sting and in front of the likes of CM Punk and Randy Orton.

Since leaving the WWE, Colon has wrestled for the World Wrestling Council and in Japan for the Wrestling New Classic promotion.

But with the 2013 Royal Rumble pay-per-view only a few months away, fans of the WWE will be eagerly awaiting the next high profile return in one of the biggest events of the calendar year.

What do you think of the news that Carlito could return to the WWE? Would you welcome him back?