Known for his troubled past and complicated relationships with various villagers, Ross has always been a character who shakes things up.

This time, it appears that he’ll be teaming up with Cain Dingle, one of his former allies and sometimes adversaries, to take on a particular villain who has been causing problems.

The burning question on everyone’s mind is: who could this villain be, and why is Ross stepping back into the fray to help Cain?

When considering who the villain in question might be, it’s important to reflect on the various enemies Cain Dingle has accumulated over the years. Cain, as one of the most feared and complex characters in Emmerdale, has no shortage of rivals, many of whom are deeply entwined in the ongoing storylines of the village. Ross Barton’s decision to return and stand by Cain’s side indicates that the threat posed by this particular villain must be substantial enough to unite these two tough, often lone-wolf characters.

One strong contender for the villain is Caleb Milligan, Cain’s newly-discovered half-brother. Since his arrival in the village, Caleb has quickly made a name for himself as a cunning and ambitious character. Initially, he seemed like a family man interested in connecting with his roots, but it soon became clear that his motivations were far more complex—and dangerous. Caleb has been embroiled in various underhanded schemes, particularly related to Home Farm and Kim Tate, and his ruthless attitude has rubbed many characters the wrong way. His relationship with Cain has become increasingly fraught with tension, especially after Caleb’s manipulative actions and Cain’s constant suspicion that Caleb is hiding something bigger. The brothers have come to blows multiple times, and while Cain has tried to keep his distance, it’s clear that Caleb poses a serious threat, not only to Cain but potentially to the entire Dingle family.

Ross Barton stepping in to help Cain could suggest that Caleb is up to something particularly dangerous—perhaps even threatening the Dingles or targeting Cain in a way that requires outside intervention. Ross and Cain have always had a complicated dynamic, with moments of camaraderie mixed with deep mistrust, especially after Ross discovered that Cain had been involved in the attack that left him scarred. However, both men share a certain loyalty to their families, and if Caleb were to cross a line that endangered Cain’s loved ones or even the village as a whole, Ross could easily be pulled back into Cain’s orbit to help take down this new enemy.

Another possibility for the villain Ross might be targeting is Kim Tate, one of the longest-standing and most powerful antagonists in Emmerdale. Kim’s reign over Home Farm has seen her cross paths with almost every major player in the village, including Cain and the Dingles. While Kim has softened slightly in recent years due to her relationship with Will Taylor and her growing bond with her son, Jamie, she remains a formidable force. Kim has never been afraid to use manipulation, blackmail, and outright intimidation to get what she wants. Cain and Kim have a rocky history, with each character seeing the other as an obstacle to their ambitions. If Kim were to threaten Cain’s position or his family, Ross could see this as an opportunity to return and take her down, especially given that he has his own history with the Tates. Kim’s control over Home Farm and her vast resources make her a difficult opponent, but with Ross and Cain working together, she could finally meet her match.

Another possible candidate for the villain is Will Taylor, Kim’s estranged husband. Will’s descent into darker dealings and his complicated relationship with Kim could position him as a dangerous wildcard. If Will feels betrayed by Kim or seeks revenge, he might go after her in a way that also threatens Cain, especially considering Cain and Kim’s mutual animosity. Will’s military background and capacity for violence, coupled with his increasing emotional instability, could make him a formidable threat. If Cain gets involved in protecting Kim or finds himself caught in the crossfire, Ross might see this as an opportunity to help out—whether for personal reasons or because of a renewed sense of loyalty to Cain.

It’s also worth considering the possibility of a new or lesser-known villain entering the picture—perhaps someone from Ross’s past or a criminal force that has ties to Cain’s shady dealings. Given Cain’s long history of involvement in illegal activities, it wouldn’t be surprising if an old enemy resurfaced, someone with the means to destabilize both Cain’s and Ross’s lives. This would make Ross’s return all the more urgent, as he and Cain would have to confront a mutual threat together.

Whoever the villain may be, Ross Barton’s return is certain to bring tension, conflict, and unexpected alliances to Emmerdale. His decision to help Cain signals that the stakes are high, and the village could be on the brink of another major upheaval. Whether they’re up against Caleb, Kim, Will, or another dark force entirely, the combined strength of Ross and Cain is sure to make for gripping drama. Fans can look forward to explosive confrontations, long-buried secrets, and perhaps even a redemption arc for Ross as he steps back into the heart of the village’s most dangerous conflicts.