Hi...
I do remember a video I saw about two guys who raised a lion from a cub (and mostly indoors, apparently).
When it just got too big to be considered a 'pet' anymore, they arranged to bring it to Africa, where a gamekeeper gradually acclimated it to the area, where it was then set free.
A year or two later, the guys who raised it came back for a visit. Cautiously entering the area where the lion was last seen, the lion spoted them, cantered toward them...then ran full speed toward them, leaped upon them...and HUGGED them...!! It was an amazing reunion...!! The lion had recognized them instantly!
Perhaps some of you have seen that video also. I think that a movie was made about it as well.