On June 30, 1997, Levy made his return to WCW as Raven. He was seen sitting in the front row at "Monday Nitro" where the commentators acknowledged him as "a man who has been a champion with other organizations". On August 21, 1997 at "Clash of the Champions XXXV", Raven defeated Stevie Richards in an "unsanctioned" match and then took a seat in the front row. The storyline continued that Raven would frequently appear in the front row for the next few months with his lackeys, slowly forming what would be known as The Flock. Raven was an "unsigned free agent", but eventually accepted a contract with WCW Commissioner James J. Dillon which stipulated that he could wrestle only when he wanted and under his own rules. The Flock was a stable of in the same vein as the Raven's Nest group in ECW. With The Flock, however, Raven was more openly abusive and controlling, which eventually led to dissension and rebellion. The group's matches were held under "Raven's Rules", which meant no disqualifications — weapon usage, double teaming, and outside interference were rampant.