ITV Emmerdale fans predict dark twist for villager as Ross Barton's return plot 'exposed'

Emmerdale fans believe they've uncovered Ross Barton's return plot after identifying a possible connection to another resident.

The ITV soap confirmed last month that the notorious Ross (played by Michael Parr) is set to return to the well-known village six years after his departure. Michael first appeared on the popular ITV soap in 2013 and was recognised for his stormy relationships with characters like Debbie Dingle (portrayed by Charley Webb).

In 2018, Ross left the village alongside Rebecca White (Emily Head) and her son, Sebastian White, to start afresh in Liverpool. Ross has frequently been referenced off-screen due to his son Moses with Charity (Emma Atkins).

However, Ross is now heading back to the village, as teased by the ITV soap: "With old wounds still to heal, his presence in the village is likely to stir up feelings and ignite some new rivalries."

Meanwhile, Billy Fletcher (Jay Kontzle) has been participating in underground boxing to earn quick money, reports the Manchester Evening News.

A shady match left Billy severely injured, requiring medical help from local paramedic John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth), called upon by concerned friend Mackenzie Boyd (Lawrence Robb).

Mackenzie cautioned Billy that he was "digging himself a hole" with all the deceit towards Dawn (Olivia Bromley), and hinted he could end up being more injured if he continued.

While Billy was contemplating retiring his boxing gloves, promoter Jade (Twinnie-Lee Moore) made an unexpected visit and urged him to participate in more fights.

Later, Billy and Dawn were seen grappling with their financial struggles as their infant son faces a battle with leukaemia. With their finances falling short for the mounting bills, Billy found himself cornered into rejoining Jade's boxing enterprise.

Intriguingly, Billy was overheard on the phone asking, "What was that you said about an offer I can't refuse?" while Dawn remained oblivious to her spouse's clandestine efforts to earn cash.

Billy's risky move has set tongues wagging among Emmerdale enthusiasts who speculate his next rival in the ring could be Ross Barton, Dawn's ex-flame.

An avid Emmerdale viewer speculated on Facebook: "Just had a thought, Ross Barton left Emmerdale and in real life started a fighting career, Billy in Emmerdale now is currently fighting for money in secret. I reckon maybe the Ross Barton come back storyline is that he ends up being one of Billy's opponents?"

Another fan responded: "You could be on to something here," and a third added: "Good theory. Will we get to see him semi-naked?"

Highlighting the romantic entanglement, a viewer remarked: "I like it...also an ex of Billy's missus Dawn."

Meanwhile, another fan recalled: "Ross used to do the bare-knuckle fighting too. I'm sure Aaron and Pete stopped him once."

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV and ITVX