Britt Baker was the first woman signed to an AEW talent contract in 2019 and for a while, was the top star of the women’s division. Baker’s days on top are now a distant memory, and her recent social media activity may have teased a bold move.
Baker has removed all references to AEW in her Instagram bio, distancing herself from the All-Elite promotion. On X, Baker’s bio is similarly AEW-free and makes reference to her role as a wrestler and a dentist.
Baker’s alterations come amid an interesting time in the DMD’s career. Baker hasn’t competed since November 2024, and has competed just five times over the past year. Baker remains active on social media though rarely makes reference to AEW.
Interestingly, her latest reference to AEW on social media saw her throw support behind Saraya following the British wrestler’s exit from AEW.
— Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. (@RealBrittBaker) March 26, 2025
Baker’s absence has left fans wondering as to whether her time with AEW may also be coming to an end. In January, Chris Jericho cast doubt on the idea that Baker will leave AEW, following reports of alleged heat on the former Women’s World Champion.
If Baker does end her time with AEW, fans can expect WWE to make an effort to sign Baker who could also see interest from promotions overseas such as STARDOM. Whatever’s next, Britt Baker remains a talking point among wrestling fans, even with her hiatus from AEW growing day-by-day.
WWE Raw General Manager Adam Pearce has announced a stacked lineup for this Monday’s SummerSlam go-home episode of WWE Raw, emanating live from Detroit, Michigan on Netflix.
The July 28 broadcast will feature live appearances from three of WWE’s biggest stars: WWE World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER, “The Best in the World” CM Punk, and “OTC1” Roman Reigns. With SummerSlam 2025 just days away, these appearances promise to deliver significant momentum heading into “The Biggest Party of the Summer.”
Championship Match Headlines Card
The evening’s main championship attraction features LWO challenging Judgment Day for the WWE Tag Team Championships. This match carries significant implications as both factions look to establish dominance heading into SummerSlam weekend.
The Judgment Day defends the World Tag Team Championship against the LWO tomorrow night on #WWERaw!
Additionally, “Main Event” Jey Uso will square off against “Big” Bronson Reed in what promises to be a hard-hitting encounter between two powerhouse performers.
The women’s division will be prominently featured with a massive eight-woman tag team match. The contest will pit Rhea Ripley, IYO SKY, Stephanie Vaquer, and Nikki Bella against the team of Naomi, Chelsea Green, Alba Fyre, and Piper Niven.
This showcase match highlights the depth and talent of WWE’s women’s roster while potentially setting up storylines that could extend into SummerSlam and beyond. With such a diverse mix of competitors, fans can expect high-energy action and potential surprises.
Monday’s Raw from Detroit promises to deliver the excitement and star power befitting a SummerSlam go-home show, with championship gold on the line and WWE’s top talent making their presence felt.
WWE’s second SuperShow Mexico event concluded in Monterrey with multiple championship defenses and international talent showcases. The July 27 event featured a mix of WWE stars and Mexican wrestlers in high-stakes competition.
Championship Highlights
Tiffany Stratton successfully defended her WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax in a brutal Street Fight, showcasing the hardcore stipulation that allowed both competitors to utilize the no-disqualification environment. The match demonstrated Stratton’s resilience as champion while continuing her dominant reign.
World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER defeated PENTA in what marked a significant international showcase for both competitors. The Austrian powerhouse maintained his championship status against the lucha libre veteran, adding another successful defense to his impressive title run.
Dominik Mysterio defended his Intercontinental Championship in Mexico, defeating both El Grande Americano and R-Truth in a triple threat match. The victory on Mexican soil holds special significance for Mysterio, whose family heritage connects deeply with lucha libre culture.
Tag Team and Featured Action
The Bloodline storyline continued with mixed results as Cody Rhodes teamed with Jimmy Uso and Jacob Fatu to defeat Solo Sikoa, JC Mateo, and Tonga Loa. The match highlighted the ongoing family dynamics within the Samoan wrestling dynasty.
Sami Zayn and Jey Uso combined forces to defeat the powerhouse team of Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker, while WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Roxanne Perez and Raquel Rodriguez successfully defended against Michin and B-Fab.
The event also featured Andrade and Rey Fenix defeating the Creed Brothers, and Stephanie Vaquer’s victory over Chelsea Green, demonstrating WWE’s commitment to showcasing diverse international talent.
International Wrestling Showcase
The SuperShow Mexico format continues to highlight WWE’s global reach, blending established WWE storylines with local wrestling culture. The event featured Mexican wrestlers including Mr. Iguana, Pagano, and Psycho Clown, who defeated Legado Del Fantasma in a showcase of lucha libre talent.
These results position WWE’s Mexican events as significant stops on the international wrestling calendar, providing unique matchups and championship opportunities outside traditional WWE venues.
WWE superstar Dominik Mysterio has revealed he’s planning a significant visual overhaul, with new gear designs already in development. Appearing for WWE’s ‘Break It Down’ series on YouTube, the reigning Intercontinental Champion shared his plans.
“I’ve had someone draw it out for me of, like, the next evolution of what I want my gear to be… and change it up a little bit, because it always has. I always got to keep, you know, people on their toes, but I can’t tell you guys. All I can say is just, you know, keep an eye out. There might be some stuff here and there.”
Despite the teased changed, the Judgment Day member confirmed he’ll continue wearing his current attire, which he says was inspired “La Parka” and “OG Dom,” for the time being. With that said, changes are coming for the Intercontinental Champion.
“I’m gonna rock the La Parka and the OG Dom stuff for a little bit more, but I got some stuff in the works that’s, like, super cool.”
It’s not just his attire that Mysterio is thinking about changing. On the show, Dominik teased going with a bleach-blond look, one similar to his WWE debut in 2005. The look, juxtaposed with Dominik keeping his moustache dark, would certainly prove ‘toyetic’ according to Dirty Dom.
“I’ve been thinking about bleaching my hair again and just fully like, because I think in my head I think I’d look cool but also like insane if I just bleached my whole head like bleach blonde exactly like this and leave my mustache just dark. I think it’d be a hell of an action figure.”
Mysterio has undergone several transformations throughout his WWE run, including changing attires as well as getting tattoos honoring some of wrestling’s greatest luchadors. With new designs already commissioned and a potential change to his hair, Mysterio is poised for the next evolution of his WWE character.
El Grande Americano is no friend to the AAA roster, as made clear during a recent backstage segment. Behind the scenes at WWE live event in Mexico City, several names associated with the brand attacked a pinata of the WWE Speed Champion. Psycho Clown, Pagano, and the ever-popular Mr. Iguana annihilated the pinata, all while the real El Grande Americano watched on in horror.
Americano has made a number of appearances for AAA in recent weeks, though now portrayed by Ludwig Kaiser instead of Chad Gable. While the roster is hardly on board with the masked sensation, the fans seem to be fully behind El Grande Americano.
El Grande Americano’s next high-profile match will see him compete for the AAA Mega Championship. This was originally a three-way between himself, Dragon Lee, and Mega Champion El Hijo del Vikingo. That was until Dominik Mysterio made his presence felt in AAA with an assault on Lee and Vikingo. The WWE Intercontinental Champion has now been added to the AAA Mega Championship match.
MJF has a golden opportunity to become AEW World Champion again, but is keeping quiet about when he intends to cash in. At AEW All In: Texas, MJF won the Men’s Casino Gauntlet match by pinning Roderick Strong to earn himself a shot at the AEW World Title.
Speaking with TMZ Sports, MJF, a former AEW World Champion addressed speculation about his future title shot. While he refused to give a definitive timeline, he took the opportunity to fire a shot at ‘Hangman’ Page, who won the gold in Texas.
“First of all, when am I going to execute the contract? I can’t answer that. But what I will say is this—I know I can beat Hangman Adam Page in the middle of the ring easy. I don’t need to cash this thing in. So, I’m looking forward to wrestling him because when I do, the Triple B is going back around my waist. Because my name is Maxwell Jacob Friedman… and I’m better than you, and you know it.”
MJF is seemingly going the route of the majority of wrestlers to have held WWE’s Money in the Bank briefcase. Rather than announce when he will cash in, MJF will let fans wait and speculate before making his move when the timing is most in his favor.
MJF’s comments come just days after tensions flared within the Hurt Syndicate on AEW Dynamite, and Boby Lashley wants him out of the faction. Losing the back-up of Lashley, Benjamin, and MVP, threatens to cause problems for any potential cash-in plan the ‘Scumbag’ has planned.
Whether MJF is soon on his own again, time will tell. Nevertheless, he remains confident that his next title reign isn’t a question of if, but when.
Alberto El Patron has a complicated legacy in WWE, but that didn’t stop fans at a recent event rallying behid him. During WWE’s Live Event at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, the former WWE Champion received an overwhelming show of support from the local crowd.
Though El Patron wasn’t on the card, the fans cleatly wanted to see him. chants erupted during a promo from Rey Mysterio, Alberto’s first opponent upon his debut in WWE. Mysterio remained silent during the moment, letting the reaction speak for itself as the crowd continued to demand to see Alberto.
The chants came just one day after Del Rio’s storyline loss to El Mesias on the July 25 edition of AAA Alianzas. As per the stipulation of the match, El Paton has been forced to leave AAA, ending the run of one of the company’s biggest stars.
While fans in Mexico City may want El Patron back, that seemingly won’t be happening. According to insiders, Del Rio has not been contacted by WWE and is not being considered for any future creative or talent-related roles. WWE has also distanced themselves from El Patron since announcing its acquisition of AAA.
With both AAA and WWE seemingly out of the picture, El Patron’s next move remains uncertain. Nevertheless, there are clealy fans who hope to see him in a WWE ring again.
Catch As Catch Can (CACC) made wrestling history on July 27, 2025, staging its inaugural “Show sur l’Eau” event on a floating ring in Proville, Nord, France. The spectacle took place on the waters of Canal de Saint-Quentin as part of a riverside community festival.
Catch As Catch Can (CACC) made wrestling history on July 27, 2025, staging its inaugural “Show sur l’Eau” event on a floating ring in Proville, Nord, France. The unprecedented spectacle took place on the waters of Canal de Saint-Quentin as part of a riverside community festival, marking a groundbreaking first for professional wrestling.
The northern France-based promotion, known for its traditional catch-style wrestling and technical grappling expertise, drew an enthusiastic crowd to Rue Lucien Sampaix under clear skies. CACC has established itself as the premier independent wrestling organization in the Douai region since around 2018, regularly showcasing the CACC France Championship.
Floating Ring Delivers Unique Wrestling Experience
The card featured an impressive roster including Léon Vigoureux, Isaac Machado, Agathe Ariès, Calypso, MBM, and Joseph Fenech Jr. The Agathe Ariès versus Calypso bout was praised by fans on social media.
Catch-as-Catch-Can wrestling, rooted in early 20th-century British and American grappling traditions, emphasizes submissions, pins, and holds with fewer restrictions than modern wrestling styles. This technical foundation proved ideal for the unique water-based venue, allowing wrestlers to showcase their skills while adapting to the distinctive floating environment.
Chad Gable made a surprising script-breaking comment during a recent appearance at a Minnesota Twins baseball game, publicly acknowledging his masked performance at WrestleMania 41.
Speaking candidly to Twins TV, Gable stated he “wrestled his first singles match at WrestleMania back in April,” directly confirming what WWE programming has kept separate – that he performed as the masked El Grande Americano at the premium live event.
This admission breaks kayfabe, as Gable’s on-screen character has consistently denied any connection to El Grande Americano. The masked persona appeared at WrestleMania 41 on April 19-20, 2025, marking a significant moment in Gable’s transition from tag team specialist to singles competitor.
The Raw superstar has been recovering from rotator cuff surgery following an active period that included winning the WWE Speed Championship as El Grande Americano against Dragon Lee on June 11, and challenging for the AAA Mega Championship against Nic Nemeth on June 15. He also competed in the Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match on July 6.
“I’m looking at the silver lining here. I got a little injury to my rotator cuff, but what it did do was buy me some time off the road to be home with my family and do stuff like this. Come to a baseball game on a Sunday, which I never get to do. So, find the bright side, right?”
Gable’s baseball game appearance comes during his injury recovery period, with the wrestler previously indicating optimism about a quicker-than-expected return to WWE programming.
WWE Superstar Drew McIntyre finds himself stuck in Great Britain after encountering unexpected travel complications following a wedding this weekend.
The Scottish Warrior revealed he was denied boarding on his return flight due to passport documentation issues. McIntyre had traveled to the UK with only his British passport, but was told he needed his U.S. passport to board his flight back to America.
“McIntyre announced he was denied the chance to board his flight back due to the fact he didn’t have his U.S. passport with him, just his UK one.”
According to PWInsider, WWE sources have confirmed this is a legitimate issue the company is currently dealing with. The travel complications come at an inconvenient time for the former WWE Champion, who maintains a busy schedule with the company.
McIntyre, who holds dual citizenship in both the United Kingdom and United States, apparently ran into bureaucratic red tape regarding which passport documentation was required for his specific travel circumstances.
It remains unclear when McIntyre will be able to resolve the documentation issues and return to the United States.
McIntyre is scheduled to be wrestling in a tag team match this coming weekend at SummerSlam 2025, teaming up with Logan Paul to face Randy Orton and Jelly Roll. The match is officially listed on the Saturday, August?2 night card at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Drew McIntyre could miss SummerSlam if he can’t board a flight in time for the upcoming PLE, and the Scottish Warrior is pointing the finger of blame directly at Jelly Roll. On X, McIntyre shared that he was stuck in the UK after being refused the chance to board his flight.
The reason for McIntyre’s travel woes? He lacks a U.S. passport. McIntyre shared that even though the staff at the airport know of him and know he lives in the U.S., they could not allow him to board. Despite McIntyre’s pleas, pointing out that he and his wife have pets that need caring for, he remains in the UK at this time.
McIntyre has travelled countless times, but shared that this is the first time something like this has happened. The three-time former World Champion shared his suspicion that Jelly Roll, one of the men he’s set to face at SummerSlam, is to blame.
“Jelly Roll. You know somebody, got your connections. You’ve got your 15 minutes of fame right now, you can get away with some stuff… You realized when I took off my shirt on SmackDown, you thought ‘All that aura, I’m screwed.'”
Why am I stranded? Why am I cutting a promo with cows?
Despite Jelly Roll’s supposed actions, McIntyre vowed to make it back to the U.S. in time for SummerSlam. The music artist will make his WWE in-ring debut by teaming with Randy Orton to face McIntyre and Logan Paul.
Mercedes Moné has reached a historic milestone in professional wrestling, expanding her championship collection to an unprecedented eight belts after capturing two inaugural titles at Prime Time Wrestling’s “All About The Moné” event in Poland on July 27, 2025.
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) July 27, 2025
The former WWE and current AEW star defeated Diana Strong at Szafirowy Dwór in the small Polish village of Koz?ów to become both the inaugural Prime Time Wrestling Women’s Champion and inaugural BestYa Wrestling Women’s Champion. Moné secured victory by hitting her signature backstabber before transitioning into the Bank Statement submission, forcing Strong to tap out.
With these latest victories, Moné now holds an extraordinary collection of eight championships across multiple promotions worldwide. Her current title portfolio includes the AEW TBS Championship, RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, CMLL World Women’s Championship, EWA Women’s Championship, 2025 Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament Championship, Queen of Southside Championship, and her two newly captured Polish titles.
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) July 27, 2025
This championship expansion represents a remarkable bounce-back for Moné, whose 16-month undefeated streak in singles competition was recently ended by Toni Storm at AEW All In. Rather than slowing down, the “CEO” has continued her international dominance, having previously captured the EWA Women’s Championship in Austria just last month.
Moné’s eight-belt collection establishes her as one of the most accomplished champions in modern professional wrestling, showcasing her ability to succeed across different promotions and wrestling styles on a global scale.
WWE brought its SuperShow Mexico tour to Arena CDMX in Mexico City on July 26, featuring multiple championship defenses and cross-brand talent in an action-packed international event.
The evening’s main events featured three championship defenses, headlined by WWE World Champion GUNTHER successfully retaining his title against former AEW star Penta. The Austrian powerhouse continues his dominant reign as he adapted to the high-energy Mexico City crowd.
WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton overcame former champion Nia Jax in a hard-fought contest, while Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio defended against both El Grande Americano and R-Truth in a unique triple threat format that showcased local Mexican talent alongside established WWE stars.
International Talent Integration
The card prominently featured Mexican wrestling culture, with local luchadores Mr. Iguana, Pagano, and Psycho Clown defeating the Latino World Order trio of Santos Escobar, Angel, and Berto in the opening contest. This cross-cultural approach demonstrated WWE’s commitment to honoring Mexican wrestling traditions.
Rey Fenix, performing in front of his home country audience, teamed with Andrade to defeat the Creed Brothers in a match that highlighted technical wrestling excellence. Women’s Tag Team Champions Roxanne Perez and Raquel Rodriguez also successfully retained their titles against Michin and B Fab.
Bloodline Saga Continues
The ongoing Bloodline storyline reached Mexico as Cody Rhodes, Jimmy Uso, and Jacob Fatu defeated Solo Sikoa, JC Mateo, and Tonga Loa in the co-main event. This faction warfare continues to be a driving force in WWE programming, even on international stages.
Additional action saw Jey Uso and Sami Zayn overcome the powerhouse team of Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker, while Stephanie Vaquer defeated Chelsea Green in women’s singles competition. The SuperShow Mexico tour continues Sunday in Monterrey, bringing WWE’s international expansion efforts to another major Mexican market.
On July 23, 2025, news broke that Hulk Hogan had passed. At 71 years of age and having been the most famous professional wrestler who ever lived, he unsurprisingly drew an outpouring of tributes on social media and in the press. It was also noteworthy, however, how many critics spoke up too, not bowing to the impulse to lionize and whitewash the history of the recently deceased, but rather pointing out that the man may have worn out his welcome on the mortal plane.
Such is the legacy of Hulk Hogan, chock full of complicated, contradictory feelings around a major celebrity who helped shape a business and was such an inspiration for generations, while also suffering a profound fall from grace on record over the course of the last decade of his life.
Hulk Hogan Was The Most Important Star In Pro Wrestling History
Photo: WWE
From the late 1970s to early 1980s, Hulk Hogan was a pro wrestling star, making waves in WWE, the AWA, and for New Japan. Despite representing a different style than promoters tended to push on top at the time, it nonetheless wouldn’t have been shocking, even then, to learn that he’d one day be a world champion.
When Hogan did win his first world title in January 1984 it marked a shift for not just his career but the wrestling business. Vince McMahon had the vision to take WWE national; Hogan was the primary vehicle to make that happen. A larger than life superhero, Hogan became the business’s defining champion and babyface in a run that launched WrestleMania and took WWE into the stratosphere.
It’s all the more remarkable that Hogan’s time on top had a second act. In 1994, he became the face of WCW. More importantly, 1996 saw Hogan’s heel turn elevate WCW in very similar ways to how the original Hulkamania run elevated WWE. The New World Order became an enormous draw that allowed WCW to beat WWE in TV ratings for a year and a half and remain competitive for some time to follow.
Though nothing should have surprised fans by that point, Hogan even had one more trick up his sleeve. When he returned to WWE in 2002, he briefly burned bright one last time as a nostalgia act, capturing the imagination in a run that led to his dream match opposite The Rock at WrestleMania 18 and one last world title run to follow.
It may well have been this run that fueled WWE leaning into nostalgia with returning legends and such emphasis on its Hall of Fame for decades to come. That’s not to mention Hogan’s own periodic returns to the company and his run with TNA.
Hulk Hogan Crossed Over To The Mainstream
Ask the average person who has never followed pro wrestling to name five wrestlers. If the person at hand can complete the task, the odds are Hulk Hogan’s name made the list.
Hogan entered pop culture as the face of WWE at its hottest. He appeared on MTV and late night talk shows, main evented seven out of the first eight WrestleManias, and became the subject of an unprecedented volume of toys and merchandise. All of that’s before the nWo became a pop culture phenomenon in its own right.
So it is that, for all his baggage, The Hulkster remains one of a very small handful of wrestlers who could die and make the entire world take notice.
Hulk Hogan’s Backstage Reputation Took A Hit
The era of tell-all books, documentaries, and podcasts was not kind to Hulk Hogan’s public image. He’d been WWE’s top babyface and WCW’s top heel, and though plenty of “smart” fans may have cooled on him, it was difficult to deny his sheer importance to the wrestling business.
However, one-by-one, accounts fleshed out an unflattering portrait of Hogan. Bret Hart’s book may have offered the most compelling, well-rounded accounting.
The Hitman recalled himself and his contemporaries loving Hogan for what a draw he was—the rising tide that lifted all their ships to financial prosperity. However, Hart also recalled a double-talking, politicking Hogan who contributed to a booking mess at the top of the card in WWE in 1993. From there came the version of Hogan who ran roughshod over WCW, holding down talents, abusing creative control, and strategically choosing when to and not to appear on television to take credit for ratings spikes.
While Hogan has spun his own version of events—looking out for his and his family’s financial well being in a tumultuous business where his body wouldn’t allow him to compete forever—a murkier picture of how and why Hulkamania ran wild so long took shape.
Hulk Hogan Fell From Grace
Image credit: Ariel Helwani Show
The narrative of Hulk Hogan as egotistical, self-serving, and a backstage politician was just the tip of the iceberg. A sex tape would follow and then, most damning, recordings of him issuing a racist rant in 2015.
Hogan’s words themselves were bad enough. He compounded them with his failure to take accountability. Rather than issue a meaningful apology, he equivocated around the way people talked when he was growing up and later lecturing the WWE roster about being careful not to get caught saying regrettable things on tape in place of actually apologizing.
Add on Hogan continually getting caught telling a range of lies like that he was almost a part of Metallica, that Andre the Giant weighed 600-plus pounds when Hogan body slammed him, or that he was offered the grill endorsement deal that George Foreman capitalized on. Add on the polarizing choice for Hogan to appear at the 2024 Republican National Convention and offer a full-throated endorsement of Donald Trump.
In the end, The Hulkster had alienated a significant portion of his fan base. He went from a largely cherished icon of the 1980s to alternately a punchline or an outright villain depending on one’s perspective.
The Legacy Of Hulk Hogan
Image credit: WWE
Hulk Hogan has one of the most complicated legacies in wrestling. For devout fans of certain eras of the business, it remains difficult to fully disavow him (and that’s doubly true for those who also aligned with his political views). Nonetheless, the racist sentiments in particular position him among those figures one had to—to put it kindly—parse the art from artist for.
Unlike Chris Benoit whose final acts and means of death were what condemned his reputation as a wrestler Hulk Hogan’s story had played out before he passed—greatest triumphs, warts, and all. It will be interesting to see if his importance to wrestling history or his public blunders “win” in the end as the lasting memories associated with him. It seems certain, though, for better or worse, Hogan will never be forgotten.
TNA Wrestling held a set of television tapings on Friday, July 25, in Kingston, Rhode Island, featuring significant developments, including the return of a former champion and a serious injury announcement. The spoilers below will air in August.
The following matches were taped for an upcoming episode of TNA Xplosion:
Jody Threat defeated Arianna Grace
Home Town Man defeated The Mecca Brian Johnson
The following matches and segments were taped for the August 7 episode of TNA iMPACT:
The show opened with Mustafa Ali and Order 4. Ali spoke about outsiders holding TNA championships and was interrupted by Joe Hendry. After a verbal exchange and a video mocking Order 4’s John Skylar, Ali accepted a challenge from Hendry for a match later in the night.
TNA World Champion Trick Williams came to the ring to discuss his upcoming match against Moose at Emergence. Moose interrupted, leading to a brief physical confrontation before Williams retreated.
International Championship Match: Steve Maclin (champion) vs. Jake Something ended in a double countout. The two continued to brawl after the match, with Maclin diving onto a group of security guards who were holding Something back.
Mike Santana cut a promo from the crowd, reflecting on his loss at Slammiversary and promising his daughter that he will eventually defeat Trick Williams for the TNA World Championship.
Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Lee defeated M & Heather By Elegance.
First Class (AJ Francis & Rich Swann) hosted an episode of the First Class Penthouse. It was announced that their stablemate, KC Navarro, suffered a torn ACL and will require surgery. AJ Francis then introduced the returning Rich Swann as the newest member of the group, before kicking Navarro out of the faction. Swann then attacked Navarro with his crutch.
Mara Sade defeated Vicious Vicki in a quick match.
TNA Knockouts World Championship Match: Ash By Elegance defeated Jacy Jayne (champion) by disqualification after Masha Slamovich interfered. The match was followed by a large brawl involving The Elegance Brand, Fatal Influence, and The IInspiration.
Santino Marella announced several matches for the TNA Emergence event: Steve Maclin vs. Jake Something in a No Disqualification, No Countout match; Mike Santana vs. Sami Callihan; and a four-way match for the Knockouts World Tag Team Championships between The Elegance Brand, Xia Brookside & Lei Ying Lee, Fatal Influence, and The IInspiration. He also suspended The Nemeths for their recent actions, but after being threatened with a lawsuit, he booked Ryan Nemeth vs. Home Town Man for Emergence.
Mustafa Ali defeated Joe Hendry in the main event after interference from his entire Order 4 entourage.
The following matches and segments were taped for the August 14 episode of TNA iMPACT:
The show opened with Moose laid out backstage. This led to a six-man tag team match where Trick Williams & First Class (AJ Francis & Rich Swann) defeated The System (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers & JDC).
Dani Luna and Indi Hartwell defeated Harley Hudson and Myla Grace. After the match, Rosemary appeared from the crowd and sprayed mist in Indi Hartwell’s face.
Matt Cardona defeated John Skylar. After the match, Cardona was attacked by Mustafa Ali and Order 4.
A “Knockouts Tag Team Summit” was held featuring the four teams competing at Emergence. The segment ended in a brawl.
Mike Santana defeated Eric Young. After the match, Young’s partners in The Northern Armory attacked Santana before Sami Callihan made the save.
Frankie Kazarian hosted a “King’s Speech” talk show segment with his guests, Steve Maclin and Jake Something. The two brawled, ending with Something laying out Maclin with a Black Hole Slam.
The Rascalz & Cedric Alexander defeated Leon Slater & The Hardys.
The tapings concluded with a non-televised concert featuring Joe Hendry and Jeff Hardy.
Nick Hogan has spoken publicly for the first time since the passing of his father Hulk Hogan, who died at 71 of a reported cardiac arrest. In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on July 27, 2025, Nick thanked those who reached out in the days following his father’s death.
Though Nick never became a wrestler like his father, he has a connection to the business Hulk played a pivotal role in. In 2005, it was reported that Nick had been training at Rikishi’s school, and Nick would tease interest in wrestling during his role on Hogan Knows Best. In 2023, Hulk claimed that there had been talks within WWE of Nick facing Shane McMahon at WrestleMania 39, though WWE sources refuted the claim.
Hulk Hogan’s role in wrestling can never be understated, and tributes continue to pur in, our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and fans at this sad time.
Alberto El Patron lost a match to El Mesias in AAA on July 25, and as per the stipulation of the match, must leave AAA for good. This departure has led some to speculate on a return to WWE, but fans shouldn’t expect ‘Alberto Del Rio’ anytime soon.,
Per Fightful Select, Alberto’s status with WWE “has not changed,” even after his storyline exit from AAA. WWE has no plans to bring Alberto back, despite him allegedly telling members of the AAA locker room that WWE has reached out to him. According to El Patron, WWE is interested in a potential Royal Rumble return, though one higher-up reportedly stated:
“If we wanted Alberto at all, much less in the Royal Rumble, he’d be here… [There is] never any difference or change to his status.”
The report also notes that WWE deliberately distanced itself from the former World Champion, especially after announcing its acquisition of AAA. El Patron was not present during the announcement that took place during WrestleMania weekend. WWE wasted no time in taking the AAA Mega Title off El Patron in a match with El Hijo del Vikingo. Though WWE sources told Fightful that this move may have drawn some backlash in Mexico it was considered a “long-term benefit.”
Así es como Alberto El Patrón cerró su etapa en AAA, la cual cumplió con creces, convirtiéndose no sólo en el rudo más rudo, también en un ídolo que se marchó ovacionado por el público.
Earlier this year, it was reported that WWE had signed El Patron, leaving some to theorize that a return was happening. It was later clarified that WWE had simply acquired Alberto’s pre-existing AAA contract. An incident with a fan at an AAA event in May would result in Alberto being suspended from competition in Tijiuana, hardly a good look for someone trying to get a third chance in WWE.
This report adds that El Patron is “legitimately done in AAA” and that “no plans” exist for a future in WWE. El Patron was fired from WWE in 2014 after a backstage altercation, and after being rehired the next year, was cut in 2016. While he may continue to talk of a WWE future as a certainty, it appears that this simply isn’t in the cards.
‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio made an explosive arrival in AAA, attacking El Hijo del Vikingo and Dragon Lee at a recent event. Now, fans have been given a new perspective of the arrival of the reignign WWE Intercontinental Champion.
The video, posted directly by WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, shows the climax of a segment where a masked individual ambushed Lee and Vikingo. When the masked figure revealed himself to be Dominik, the crowd erupted, a moment that Levesque’s video captured perfectly.
In the caption accompanying the video, Triple H praised Mysterio, stating he proves he’s “a STAR” no matter where he performs. The endorsement certainly carries weight coming from one of WWE’s biggest stars, and more importantly, one of the promotion’s top executives making decisions to this day.
Wall-to-wall action from every match, a sing-along with El Grande Americano, and proof that no matter where he is … @DomMysterio35 is a STAR.#TripleMania streams on YouTube August 16 from Mexico City…are you ready?… pic.twitter.com/4vHvCfHJoK
Mysterio’s shocking appearance led to a major announcement: he will now compete in the AAA Mega Championship match at TripleManía on August 16, joining Dragon Lee, El Grande Americano and champion El Hijo del Vikingo. The show will stream live on YouTube from Mexico City, where Mysterio plans on leaving a dpouble champion.
Before TripleMania though, Dominik will defend his WWE Intercontinental Title against AJ Styles at SummerSlam, taking place August 2–3. No matter where he goes, expect loud reactions for ‘Dirty Dom.’
Former WWE developmental and TNA star Trenesha Biggers, known by fans as Rhaka Khan, was arrested in New York City on July 26 for criminal trespass. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that Biggers was escorted out of her former Midtown apartment around 11:30?AM, having remained on the premises despite being served an eviction order. Neighbors had reportedly grown frustrated by ongoing issues at the residence.
Biggers was taken into custody at the 17th Precinct and remained there as of Saturday afternoon. This incident adds to a long history of legal battles for Biggers. In October 2023, a federal judge dismissed her second amended lawsuit, which sought $3 billion in damages. The suit had named nearly 500 defendants—ranging from The Rock, Nikki Bella, and The Miz to multiple government agencies—alleging conspiracy and wrongful seizure of her children. U.S. District Court Judge Laura Taylor Swain rejected the filing for failure to state valid claims and improper venue.
Previously, Biggers had faced serious charges in Texas, including interference with child custody and aggravated kidnapping facilitate, which led to her being placed on El Paso’s Most Wanted list in 2019 after failing to appear in court. She was later arrested and arraigned, with bench warrants issued and revoked multiple times.
In wrestling, Khan competed in the 2005 WWE Diva Search which was won by Ashley Massaro. Though she didn’t win, she was signed to a developmental contract, though she was released on May 4, 2006. In 2008, Khan debuted for TNA at Against All Odds, and would join the ‘Kongtourage’ that same year. She was released from TNA on October 1, 2009.
Trenesha Biggers’s arrest for criminal trespass represents the latest chapter in a complex post-wrestling life. Stay tuned to SEScoops for updates on her case.
Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71, marking the end of the life of arguably the biggest star in all of professional wrestling. While several promotions paid tribute after his death, AEW did not, earning the ire of fans.
@TonyKhan BAD PERSON! WONT ACKNOWLEDGE HULH HOGAN BECAUSE TONY HAS TO MUCH OF A EGO
You have to be a real asshole if you don't pay any respect to Hulk Hogan. That's why you're the worst promoter in pro wrestling. Punk was right about you.
On the July 26, episode of AEW Collisision, veteran broadcaster Tony Schiavone addressed the loss in an emotional on-air tribute. The tribute came after the opening match during Schiavone’s weekly address to the audience.
“It was quite a week for all of us who have been in professional wrestling for a long time with the unexpected death of Hulk Hogan. Hulk Hogan was the man who brought professional wrestling into the mainstream in the ’80s and in the ’90s, right here on this network, right here on TNT almost 30 years ago. Hulk Hogan lit the fire that began the Monday Night Wars, and he also put WCW on the cable TV map right here on TNT.”
Schiavone then shifted to addressing Hogan’s family, including his wife Sky, and his children Nick and Brooke.
“And, you know, sometimes we take a look at these stars that are bigger than life and we forget that they are just like us—human. And we forget they have families that care about them. Our condolences go out to Hulk’s family, his children Brooke and Nick, his wife Sky. And if you’ve never lost a member of your family, you have no idea what the pain they are going through right now. And believe you me, it is intense. From all of us here at All Elite Wrestling—RIP, brother.”
Schiavone’s tribute comes despite AEW having a heated stance on Hogan. In 2020, Tony Khan shared that Hogan was banned from AEW events due to his several controversies. After Hulk’s ex-wife Linda made some racially charged comments that same year, she too earned a lifetime ban from AEW events.
Khan has not publicaly acknowledged Hogan’s passing in interviews or on social media, and it remains to be seen if he ever will. As for AEW, Schiavone’s tribute shows how the Hulkster had an impact on the wrestling world, even in promotions he never performed for.
WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley has come to the defense of Hulk Hogan, calling out wrestling industry figures and fans as “hypocrites” for criticizing the wrestling legend over past controversial comments.
Speaking on his podcast with The Duke, D-Von acknowledged the hurt caused by Hogan’s previous remarks while emphasizing the wrestling icon’s immense contributions to the business.
“We all are guilty in one way, shape, or form of saying something or doing something that wouldn’t be considered appropriate. If it wasn’t for Hulk Hogan, there would be no WWE, there would be no AEW, there would be no TNA. We wouldn’t even be having this platform right now.”
D-Von revealed that Hogan personally apologized to him, sharing details of their private conversation where the wrestling legend expressed his love and respect.
“He apologized to me. He pulled me aside and said, ‘Devon, I’m not that type of person. I’m not.’ He said, ‘They’re killing me on social media. They’re making me feel like I am. Brother, I love you.'”
The tag team legend didn’t hold back in criticizing those who condemned Hogan, suggesting many critics have their own skeletons in the closet.
“I also know these same people have done things that, if brought to light, fans wouldn’t be happy with. You’re being hypocrites about it. Don’t say good things about him now that he’s gone.”
D-Von emphasized the biblical principle of forgiveness while acknowledging his own hurt as an African-American over Hogan’s past comments, ultimately calling for understanding and redemption in the wrestling community.
Current Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena will bring his legal expertise to the big screen when “Coyote vs. Acme” hits theaters worldwide on August 28, 2026. The announcement came during a triumphant Comic-Con panel for the rescued Looney Tunes film, where fans celebrated the movie’s journey from Warner Bros. cancellation to theatrical release.
Cena stars as Buddy Crane, the intimidating corporate defense attorney representing Acme Corporation against Wile E. Coyote’s product liability lawsuit. The live-action/animated hybrid follows the classic cartoon character as he finally fights back against the company whose faulty products have tormented him for decades, with Will Forte playing Coyote’s scrappy personal injury lawyer.
“What I will prove to this jury is that this man, Wile E Coyote, he is reckless,” Cena declares in exclusive Comic-Con footage, showcasing his commanding courtroom presence as the film’s primary antagonist.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect for Cena’s corporate villain role. Fresh off his shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2025, where he aligned with The Rock and berated WWE fans, the “Never Seen 17” brings that same ruthless energy to defending Acme’s questionable business practices. His character serves as the former boss to Forte’s underdog attorney, adding personal stakes to the legal battle.
Director Dave Green spent six years developing the project based on Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker humor piece, with James Gunn producing alongside his collaborations with Cena on “The Suicide Squad” and “Peacemaker.” The $70 million film was completed in 2022 but became a casualty of Warner Bros. Discovery’s cost-cutting measures, leading to its controversial shelving in November 2023.
Ketchup Entertainment rescued the film in a $50 million deal, with Will Forte praising fans at Comic-Con: “The real hero of this movie is all of you guys sitting in those seats. Like Wile E. Coyote, you guys were an underdog who fought against a major corporation, and because you never gave up, this movie is now going to come out in wide global release.”
For wrestling fans, “Coyote vs. Acme” represents another evolution in Cena’s entertainment empire. With Peacemaker Season 2 premiering on HBO Max just one week before the film’s release, and his announced 2025 WWE farewell tour underway, Cena continues balancing his championship reign with his expanding Hollywood presence. The animated courtroom comedy proves that whether he’s defending titles in the ring or corporations in court, John Cena remains an unstoppable force in entertainment.
AJ Lee and CM Punk, married for over 12 years, have differing views on working together. While Punk believes their relationship thrives on keeping work and home separate, AJ hinted at being open to collaborating with Punk if the right opportunity arises.
“There are really two things me and my wife don’t do together. One is to work out and the other is to work together. It’s really the perfect relationship.”
– CM Punk
During her appearance at San Diego Comic-Con, AJ joked about the longevity of their marriage being due to them not working together, but she also expressed openness to future collaboration, praising Punk’s writing and artistic abilities.
“Oh my gosh, I think the key to being married for 12 years is that we don’t work together. [Laughs] But yeah, it’d be really cool. ‘Never say never’ is what I say to all the things when people ask me where I’m going to work. But yeah, he’s a really good writer and a really good artist — acting and wrestling.”
San Diego Comic-Con
Although there is currently no confirmed project, AJ’s comments have left fans hopeful for a potential collaboration. You can see footage of her comments from SDCC 2025 courtesy of BrockLesnarGuy:
AJ speaks about if she’d work with Punk in any capacity and gives shoutout to Larry getting an action figure yesterday. pic.twitter.com/mij7CXSkCM
Bayley’s frustration boiled over during a dark match following the July 25 SmackDown episode, as the former Women’s Champion expressed her disappointment over missing SummerSlam 2025. The Role Model lost a crucial 2-out-of-3 falls match to Lyra Valkyria on the July 14 WWE RAW, costing her a shot at Becky Lynch’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship at “the Biggest Party of the Summer.”
Before her dark match against Valkyria began, Bayley grabbed the microphone to air her grievances with Cleveland’s audience. Despite being positioned as a babyface, her recent actions continue to hint at a potential heel turn.
“I have a bone to pick with the first ever women’s IC champion, Lyra Valkyria, okay? I tried to do something out of the good of my heart put us in a tag team title match. Why? To get us to SummerSlam because I am out of a match at SummerSlam, thanks to you!” – Bayley
The July 14 RAW match saw Bayley secure the first fall against Valkyria, but ultimately lose after being pinned twice consecutively. The winner was set to challenge Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam, leaving Bayley without a spot on the premium live event card.
Bayley’s frustration continued into the dark match, where she again fell to Valkyria via pinfall. This marks a significant contrast to SummerSlam 2024, where Bayley defended the WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax, ultimately losing the title after interference from Tiffany Stratton.
With SummerSlam 2025 approaching, Bayley’s exclusion from the card and her increasingly aggressive demeanor suggest potential storyline developments that could reshape her character moving forward.
CM Punk has told the story of how he got unbanned on WWE’s extra talent list.
The Straight Edge star was part of the WWE’s SDCC 2025 panel, where they unveiled many new action figures. One of the figures featured Punk in a look from his 2003 SmackDown Dark match against The Road Warriors.
When asked about it, the former WWE champion told a story about the bout. He mentioned that he had been ‘banned’ from the list of extras only days before but he showed up to the show anyway:
“That particular guy is a person who wrestled the night before on a Monday Night Raw, was put on the ban list. Then I went to SmackDown anyway cuz I was like ‘Well all right, might as well get my money.’ The Road Warriors were supposed to do a dark match.”
CM Punk recalled WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter offering him a match at the show. While the former AEW star accepted the offer, the match did not go as he would have hoped as his partner knocked out one of their opponents:
“No offense to anybody else that was in attendance but all the rest of the extra talent were so rotten that Sgt. Slaughter came up to me and just said ‘You got your gear right kid? And I was like ‘Yes sir.’
[He said] ‘How would you like to work the Road Warriors?’ And I just said ‘Yes sir.’ I didn’t add ‘So I’m not banned anymore?’ It’s the fastest turnaround on a ban. I got to work the Road Warriors.
I think they just released that in the vault. So you got to see that match. My tag partner knocked Hawk unconscious. So that action figure might come with like a heart attack because that’s what I had on the apron watching this all unfold.”
WWE recently released the footage of this dark match including an introduction from CM Punk where he goes into more details of why he was banned and more. You can check it out below:
WWE SummerSlam 2025 will be a stacked event, with the Biggest Party of the Summer playing out over two-nights for the first time ever. Despite the show being bigger, not everyone has made it on the card, resulting in one fomer champion to share her grievances.
After the July 25, edition of WWE SmackDown, Bayley competed in a dark match against Lyra Valkyria. The Role Model made clear that she’s furious that she won’t be part of SummerSlam, and blamed her absence on Valkyria.
Bayley didn’t have the best of look at last year’s SummerSlam, where her WWE Women’s Title reign was ended by Nia Jax. Still, that show at least saw Bayley on the card, which is more than can be said in 2025.
It remains to be seen when Bayley will next have a role on a Premium Live Event, but it won’t be at SummerSlam.
