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FOX, USA Network Not Thrilled WWE Is Working With ESPN

Andrew Ravens
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0

A new report has surfaced online regarding WWE having serious talks with ESPN that dates back to last year involving WrestleMania 35.

Sports Illustrated reports that ESPN wanted to up their coverage of WrestleMania 35 and the network was in a “deep discussion” to have a desk at WrestleMania, and to air WrestleMania SportsCenter breaks all weekend.

However, as WrestleMania week approached, the talks died the week before. The reason for it not happening was due to WWE Chairman Vince McMahon not wanting to reveal the behind-the-scenes aspects of WWE. This would include moments after the show ended.

This is interesting considering that WWE shows this type of footage on various programs such as Total Bellas, Total Divas, WWE 24 and WWE Chronicle. 

Per the report, this type of footage could have been acquired by ESPN for a significant price. However, this footage is far more valuable to WWE than it would be to ESPN.

Fast forward a year later, it’s been reported that WWE was in talks with ESPN to air the pay-per-view on the ESPN+ pay-per-view service. This type of deal didn’t happen when the coronavirus pandemic started in the United States. 

ESPN did not want to spend such a high price on any event that was surrounded by uncertainty. 

WWE executives questioned whether this type of deal would’ve led to a mass decrease of WWE Network subscribers. Finally, FOX and the USA Network were “less than enthused” with WWE making a deal to air replays of past WrestleMania events including from 2014, 2016, and 2019. 

The broadcast of WrestleMania 35 will serve as a lead-in for Night Two of WrestleMania 36, which FOX was especially not thrilled with.

Originally, FOX hoped that some of the WrestleMania encore presentations would air on FS1, but WWE made the decision to air them on ESPN because that network draws significantly more viewers. 

WWE Cracking Down On Leaks & Spoilers Ahead Of WrestleMania

Andrew Ravens
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0

On a weekly basis, WWE has to deal with spoilers from leaking and WrestleMania 36 was no different. 

The company taped episodes of RAW, NXT, and SmackDown in addition to both nights of WrestleMania 36 last week. These tapings were different, according to a new report from Sports Illustrated.

WWE had to move WrestleMania 36 from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay to the empty WWE Performance Center. This was done due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. 

Per the report, leaking WWE information is a fireable offense. With WrestleMania being WWE’s biggest event of the year, WWE wanted to present it in the best way possible despite it being a taped show. 

It was noted that the tapings for WrestleMania 36 ran overnight from 11pm until 5am.

Also, there were only a limited number of people present for the set of WWE TV and pay-per-view tapings held last week. People like WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, Kevin Dunn, Paul Heyman, and Bruce Prichard were in attendance. 

Also, the majority of the producers or agents were not present for the matches. The agents that helped put the matches together were the likes of Adam Pearce, and WWE Hall of Famers Shawn Michaels, and “Road Dogg” Brian James.

These producers are considered to be the unlikeliest of candidates to leak spoilers. So far, no leaks regarding the outcome of the matches taped have been revealed. 

https://youtu.be/J9vO7QpHpeg

AJ Styles Thinks WWE Should Address Length Of WrestleMania Next Year

Andrew Ravens
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1

AJ Styles recently did an interview with Newsweek where he spoke about a wide range of topics including WWE’s decision to split WrestleMania 36 into a two-night event. 

The first night will take place on Saturday and the second night the following day. He was asked if WWE should make the event a two-night show going forward. 

“I think we’ve got to do something, as a company. There are a lot of matches in one night, too many if you ask me. Either we cut down on the matches or have two nights. Either way is fine with me.

At the end of the day, it’s up to the fans and whether they are willing to show up. And at the same time, maybe give someone a chance who can’t afford two days they can see one day or pick the night and the matches they want to see. I don’t think it’s a bad thing. Next year, we’ll see what happens.”

Since the launch of WWE’s streaming service, WWE Network, the length of these pay-per-view events have been extended. 

The big four shows – Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, Survivor Series, and SummerSlam – can last anywhere from four to six hours long. 

This year’s WrestleMania is expected to have a four-hour main card with a one-hour pre-show.

AJ Styles Comments On “Boneyard Match” Name & Rules

CM Punk: “It’s Completely Strange’ For WWE To Hold WrestleMania Right Now

Andrew Ravens
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2

CM Punk recently did an interview with No Sports Report where he talked about WWE’s decision to push forward with WrestleMania 36.

WWE had to make the change to the location of the event due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, which has been impacting their event schedule. It was moved to the Performance Center and held in front of no fans. It’ll also be a two-night event. 

“Even from a business standpoint, a fan standpoint, you gotta push the date, reschedule, have it in June/July. What is the silver lining in that? Maybe you can have it in an open-air arena in the midwest when it’s warm. 

Punk says the situation is almost as if WrestleMania is cancelled, but they’re moving forward anyways. He also revealed that there’s buzz behind the scenes that certain performers are sick.

“Yeah, I think it’s completely strange. You know, I hear all the rumors of who’s sick.”

– CM Punk

Then you’ve got all these guys that are whether the culture there has changed or not, are going to be job scared so they’re going to show up and then they get somebody else sick. Obviously, that’s how the virus works.”

Punk continued by noting that he thought the decision was just so obtuse and the wrong decision. He stated that he wouldn’t have made a two-night event. He then brought up how they pre-taped segments and questioned the insanity of watching it come Sunday if there are spoilers. 

Punk also talked about how it must suck for the performers to work in front of no fans under these conditions. 

It is not entirely surprising that CM Punk is outspoken about WWE’s practices. He is known for speaking his mind almost as much as his ring work. He is also not on very good terms with WWE, despite occasional appearances on the FS1 Backstage show.

You can listen listen to CM Punk’s comment about WWE moving forward with WrestleMania below.

https://youtu.be/xoQAZ0mTKbE?t=694

Triple H Fires Back At Critics Who Say WrestleMania 36 Should Be Postponed

Jon Fuentes
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13

Triple H has responded to the criticism WWE has received for going through with WrestleMania 36 despite the current coronavirus pandemic.

Former WWE Champion “The Game” was recently a guest on “The Ariel Helwani MMA Show” to discuss “The Show Of Shows.” Triple H noted that WWE believes they’re putting on an essential service of entertaining fans during this hectic time.

“Look, there’s going to be critics of everything. I think we’re doing this to provide what we believe is an essential service in entertaining our fans, entertaining people around the world, and I think you see that with ESPN picking up past WrestleManias, and FOX, NBC and that partnership, we can put out content… even our historic content is evergreen in nature because of the storytelling aspect of what we do, and I say this a lot, we’re more akin to the ‘Rocky’ movie than we are actual boxing.

“Once the event takes place live in boxing, you’re kind of done with it. With us, you’ll watch it over and over again, because it’s the story, and the characters, and the emotion that you feel. You’ll go back and relive those epic moments — Hogan slamming Andre the Giant at WrestleMania 3, or whatever connects with you from the past.

He went on to note that WWE is working very closely with government officials, and taking all the necessary precautions to protect all involved.

“We’re working with the government officials very closely. We’re taking all of the precautions, we’re screening our talent. Anybody that’s uncomfortable doing this doesn’t have to. The crew and the staff is very, very limited.

“We’re working the talent waves, where we bring them in for their particular stuff and then they can leave, and keeping people as separated as possible, trying to do this in as safe a way as possible, while still being able to perform a vital service. We’re following CDC recommendations, as well as Dr. Joseph Maroon and Dr. Jeffrey Dugas.”

WrestleMania 36 was initially scheduled to take place from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida on April 5. However, after the coronavirus outbreak, the event was canceled due to gathering bans. WrestleMania was expected to attract over 70,000 people. Now, the event has been relocated to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Also, the show will take place over the span of two nights. Day one of WrestleMania 36 begins tomorrow, Saturday, April 4 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

The action continues on Sunday, April 5 at 6:00 p.m. ET as well. Aside from the location and date changes, some of the matches have also been affected. One of the biggest changes being Roman Reigns’ removal from his Universal Title match with Goldberg. Goldberg will now face a replacement opponent on the show.

H/T POST Wrestling for the transcriptions

WrestleMania 36: Backstage Notes On Two-Night Lineup Structure

Jon Fuentes
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0

WrestleMania 36 kicks off tomorrow, and for the first time ever, it will take place over the span of two days.

Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, no fans will be in attendance for Wrestlemania, another first-ever for the WWE. According to a recent report from the WrestleVotes Twitter account, we have some more details to pass along regarding the two-night lineup. WWE officials were still working on the lineup for the event as of this week. It’s likely the two gimmick matches will air on separate days.

Those being the Boneyard match between The Undertaker and AJ Styles, and the Firefly Funhouse match between John Cena and Bray Wyatt. Also, it’s believed that the two World Title matches will also air on separate nights. Goldberg will defend his Universal Championship against Roman Reigns’ replacement opponent, after Reigns pulled from the card due to health concerns.

Also, Brock Lesnar will defend his WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre. The same is expected for the two Women’s Championship matches. Charlotte Flair challenged Rhea Ripley for the NXT Women’s Championship. Becky Lynch will also be defending her Raw Women’s Championship against Shayna Baszler. SEScoops will be providing you with live coverage of WrestleMania 36 both nights.

Coverage on Saturday and Sunday will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Ronda Rousey Comments On Possible WWE Return

Chris Stephens
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0

Ronda Rousey recently uploaded a rather interesting video to her official YouTube channel. The video features her answering questions from fans. One of the questions Ronda answered was in regard to when she’ll be coming back to WWE. Ronda initially said she was taking an “impregnation vacation” from the company and according to recent comments, she is still on said vacation.

“Well, Trav and I are still working on that mommy/daddy time if you know what I mean?” Ronda said when asked when she’ll be returning to WWE.

“I won’t be at WrestleMania this year…or will I?” Ronda responded to another question. “I’m just kidding, I’m not going to be at WrestleMania.”

Ronda then went on to answer several questions about her feet…

Ronda Rousey Answers Feet Related Questions

Midway through the video, Ronda becomes concerned about the growing amount of questions in her inbox from fans regarding her feet. She called Travis Browne over to investigate.

“There’s like 8000 emails here and they all talk about feet,” Ronda lamented. “These people need help.”

A montage is then shown of Travis and Ronda answering emails and taking pictures of Travis’ feet, goats feet, and more. Ronda also plays the saxophone for a bit. You can view this rather unique video in the player below:

Update On Thursday’s AEW Dynamite Tapings, Future Programming

Chris Stephens
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0

As more restrictions are taking place across the United States due to the ongoing global pandemic, many wrestling fans are wondering how much longer AEW will be able to air new content on Wednesday nights. According to a report from PWTorch, AEW has weeks, if not months, of content already filmed.

The promotion is reported to have been filming content at QT Marshall’s gym in Norcross, GA up until the midnight deadline last night when all non-essential businesses in the state were ordered to close. They are said to have filmed enough “storyline-advancing” matches for several episodes of Dynamite.

The next few episodes will intersperse matches filmed from Daily’s Place in Jacksonville and those filmed from the Georgia location.

Some of the matches filmed recently might end up airing on episodes of Dark if restrictions are lessened in the coming weeks. If, however, restrictions are not lessons those matches could be used on Dynamite.

It is also being reported that a Georgia state official attended the tapings to ensure AEW was adhering to regulations. AEW did have the proper paperwork filed and had notified local officials before filming commenced.

The majority of wrestlers used for the tapings either live nearby and were able to drive to the shows or they have been staying nearby even if they don’t live there. One or two wrestlers not from areas hard hit by the virus did fly in for the shows.

All wrestlers are being asked to go into isolation for 2 weeks. They are then hoping to be able to tape again later this month or in May if it is possible to do so.

AEW TNT Championship Tournament Has Been Filmed

The TNT Championship tournament is said to have been filmed up to the finals, which will take place at the Double or Nothing PPV.

The TNT Championship tournament will begin airing next week and an AEW World Championship match between champion Jon Moxley and challenger Jake Hager will air in 2 weeks time.

WWE SmackDown Preview: Roman Reigns Situation, John Cena To Address Bray Wyatt

Andrew Ravens
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0

A new episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown is here and it’s slated to be an important show. 

The reason for that is due to it serving as the final show before WrestleMania 36. With just hours until bell time, it’s time to look ahead starting with tonight’s episode of SmackDown.

Despite the known changes, WWE is still hyping up John Morrison and The Miz defending the SmackDown Tag Team Titles against The Usos and The New Day at WrestleMania 36. 

In fact, the company is hyping that all three teams will be on Miz TV. WWE will have to announce the changes to this match due to one of the stars not being able to work the contest. 

As usual, fans should expect more matches and segments to be revealed this afternoon for SmackDown. 

WWE holds this show from Orlando, Florida at the WWE Performance Center. WWE is advertising the following items for tonight’s broadcast:

  • John Cena will appear to respond to Bray Wyatt’s challenge for a Firefly Funhouse match
  • The Usos and The New Day stop by “Miz TV” ahead of WrestleMania championship showdown
  • WWE to address Roman Reigns vs. WWE Universal Champion Goldberg at WrestleMania
  • WrestleMania 36 match order to be revealed
  • Final WrestleMania 36 build

Join us here later tonight for our post-show WWE SmackDown Results and Takeaways feature.

WWE 24: Edge: The Second Mountain To Premiere After WrestleMania

Steve Russell
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1

A new WWE Network special looking at Edge’s return to the ring will premiere this weekend.

WWE 24: Edge: The Second Mountain will air Sunday night, April 5th immediately following the conclusion of WrestleMania 36 (Night 2).

The documentary will apparently give the WWE Universe an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Edge’s triumphant return to in-ring action. “The Rated R Superstar” made a comeback to WWE at January’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view. He was the 21st entrant in the 30-man Royal Rumble matchup. The matchup was eventually won by Drew McIntyre.

Here is the official trailer for WWE 24: Edge: The Second Mountain:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erZ8fAKT69o

Edge’s Retirement, WrestleMania Feud

Edge was unfortunately forced to retire back in 2011. He had been diagnosed with cervical spinal stenosis. This led him to retire from pro wrestling and pursue a new career in acting.

Following his return at Royal Rumble, Edge has been involved in a personal grudge match with his former Rated RKO teammate, Randy Orton. The two will clash at this weekend’s WrestleMania 36 weekender in a Last Man Standing matchup.

The show, originally intended to take place on April 5 from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, will now take place on April 4 and 5. It has been pre-recorded from multiple locations out of concern of the current coronavirus pandemic.

Brandi Rhodes Talks About Critics And Expecting Backlash

Steve Russell
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1

All Elite Wrestling’s Chief Brand Officer Brandi Rhodes recently joined Tony Schiavone and Aubrey Edwards on AEW’s official podcast, Unrestricted. During their conversation, Brandi addressed her detractors and what it’s like to personally anticipate a negative backlash.

Acknowledging that there are those who are critical of her because her husband is AEW’s Executive Vice President Cody, Brandi said:

“I mean the the only hesitation that I ever had was the hesitation that a lot of women are made to have positions like this” Brandi began. “Which is that people would say, ‘well, the only reason you’re doing this job is because of who you’re married to.'”

She continued, “Sure, it is tough being married to your business partner? You know, more so in the creative element than in the business sense. We’re very like minded, we both are very organised. We annoy people because we show up dressed up!”

Brandi Rhodes On Backlash

Brandi Rhodes confessed that she has seen negative comments regarding her position within AEW and her relationship with Cody. She admitted that it’s difficult to want something for yourself knowing there may be a backlash for pursuing or accepting an opportunity.

She also spoke about she is enjoying her current on-screen role. Having left the Nightmare Collective behind, Brandi Rhodes has since been managing the Natural Nightmares, Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall. 

Triple H On What His Life Would Be Like If He Hadn’t Married Stephanie McMahon

Steve Russell
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7

During Ariel Helwani’s MMA Show, Triple H was asked what he might be doing had he never met or married Stephanie McMahon. He explained how he’s always had a fascination with how things work behind-the-scenes, regardless of his relationship with Stephanie. He noted that this interest is how he first started working with Vince McMahon. According to him, they started working together during the beginning of the Attitude Era.

“I had never even met Steph at that point,” Triple H explained. “He and I were working creatively when a bunch of writers left us and Vince was kind of doing everything solo. He kind of tagged me in to help him in a manner and riff ideas off and bounce ideas off of and then I started sitting in production meetings and it became more and more my involvement.”

“The Game” continued, “Even for stuff that had zero to do with me, which I tended to prefer. I didn’t like to weigh on the stuff that had to do with me nearly as much because I felt like it was wrong to do and your vision can get warped in that but to weigh in on other people’s things and to weigh in on other shows, I was always as fascinated with that side of the business.”

Triple H believes that even if he had never met or married Stephanie McMahon, he would still be involved in behind-the-scenes activity. He noted how his relationship with her is the best thing that ever happened to him.

However, from a business perspective, “I like to think I’d be doing the same thing because of the relationship that I had with Vince and the creative relationship that we had long before any of that.”

Booker T Talks Potential ‘Theatrics’ of Edge vs Randy Orton

Jake Skudder
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0

WWE Hall of Famer and co-host of the Hall of Fame podcast Booker T recently commented on the upcoming WrestleMania 36 bout between Edge and Randy Orton. With the unique nature of this year’s ‘Mania, Booker T believes that a ‘theatrical’ element to the match will be able to push it beyond the confines of standard wrestling fare.

Booker T on Edge vs Randy Orton

“This is a moment man, this is a moment that these guys can actually be able to go out here and really tap into their creativeness” Booker T began. “Looking at guys like Edge, he’s perfect for this moment, because he’s a guy who not only loves the wrestling business; but as soon as he got out to the wrestling business he went right into acting.”

“I like the analogy, it [WWE] is Rocky, it is Shakespeare, it is Romeo and Juliet.”

Booker T

Booker T would elaborate further, discussing Triple H’s recent comments that WWE is more “like the Rocky movie and not boxing.” “I like the analogy, it [WWE] is Rocky, it is Shakespeare, it is Romeo and Juliet. It seemed like these guys have said ‘hey man, we’re gonna be in this [coronavirus] state for a while, why don’t you let us be creative? You don’t write anything for us. and just let us go out here and talk about it. Let us feel it?’ It actually looks that way to be. When I watched The Undertaker go out and cut a promo? That was as real as I’ve ever seen The Undertaker.”

Final Hype for Edge vs Orton

Booker T would finish by discussing the history between Edge and Orton. “And now [for Randy] to go out and dance with Edge? A guy who he’s got history with? These guys know each other very very well and respect each other, a whole lot. And now they’re gonna get a chance to go out and you know create magic for the world, in front of an empty arena. Mano a mano and now it’s going to be, you know, a fight that we got to create like we never have before, just because of the circumstances that we’re in. We’re really gonna get a chance to see Shakespeare.”

Edge vs Randy Orton will be taking place this weekend at WrestleMania 36. The show will be available to purchase on PPV, FITE TV as well as the WWE Network.

Are you looking forward to the match between Edge and Orton? Do you think it will have a ‘theatrical’ element? Let us know in the comments

Booker T

Also Check Out:

Rob Gronkowski Talks About Signing With WWE

Steve Russell
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1

New WWE signing Rob Gronkowski has opened up about signing with the company in a recent interview with Newshub. Looking back to his time in the NFL, Gronkowski shared how those experiences helped prepare him for WWE.

“Playing football in the NFL and being around the best of the best has definitely prepared me for WrestleMania. You can’t just walk out on the field and expect to be ready to compete – you have to practice, work out and know your plays.”

Gronkowski continued, “It’s the same thing for WrestleMania. I can’t expect to go out there, and jump off the top rope or cut a promo. Everything is about practice and that’s what I’ve taken from my time in the NFL. If you want to be great in any industry, you have to do the work and prepare. In the time I have been with WWE, I can see the superstars are the same way and they want it just as bad.”

The former NFL player shared how it’s an honor to be a part of WWE and experience the atmosphere he grew up watching. He added how working with his friend Mojo Rawley is a dream come true for him. Rob Gronkowski made his WWE television debut as a talent on the March 20 episode of SmackDown.

Rob Gronkowski will serve as Host for this weekend’s WrestleMania 36. The pre-recorded event will air on the WWE Network on April 4 and April 5.

Edge Wants To Make Sure His WrestleMania Match Is “Tough To Follow”

Steve Russell
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0

Edge has acknowledged Drew McIntyre’s recent comments where he stated Edge’s Last Man Standing matchup should headline a night of WrestleMania 36. Talking with USA Today, Edge opened up about his intentions for the match, sharing that he wants to make sure it’s difficult to follow.

“My mindset is our match is going to be tough to follow. It really is, and that’s what my job is, is to make it tough to follow,” Edge explained. “So if you want to put it on in the middle, if you want to put it on in the beginning, good luck following it.”

Edge explained that their match placement doesn’t bother him. Instead, it’s all about delivering the best story possible, especially as it’s his first singles match in 9 years. “The Rated R Superstar” was sadly forced to retire back in 2011 before his return at this January’s Royal Rumble event.

“If it’s on last, great, but that doesn’t change my mindset going into it. My mindset is to continue to tell this story, and for my first singles match back in nine years, I want to start this second chapter since coming back at the Royal Rumble, I want to keep that momentum going. I want to show people I’ve taken this craft to a different level than I did it before.”

Edge will compete against Randy Orton this weekend at WrestleMania 36. The “Show of Shows” will air on the WWE Network on April 4 and April 5.

The Big Show Addresses Critics Of Roman Reigns’ WrestleMania Decision

Steve Russell
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0

WWE Superstar The Big Show has shared his thoughts on fans who have been critical of Roman Reigns’ decision to pull out of WrestleMania 36. Reigns was set to face Goldberg for the WWE Universal Championship. Unfortunately, “The Big Dog” has a lowered immune system after two battles with leukemia. This concern amidst the coronavirus pandemic led him to pull out of their match. Speaking on The Gorilla Position Podcast, Big Show labeled Reigns’ detractors as both ignorant and selfish.

“I think anyone that was to give anyone grief or something like that? It’s really very selfish,” Big Show explained. “[It’s an] almost ignorant point of view. Roman Reigns has had his battles with leukaemia. This is an illness that, you know, own his own he has fought, repressed and got into remission. This guy’s literally got his life in his hands and he’s also got two new kids who are extremely vulnerable.”

The Big Show On Roman Reigns’ Position

Big Show believes Reigns’ decision was a difficult one to make. He added how the only right decision to make in this situation is the one that protects himself and his family. “So you can’t begrudge someone for making that choice. I don’t think there’s not one person out there that wouldn’t have made the same choices as Roman. When you look at the facts, every talent has to weigh, you know, risk reward factor.”

He doesn’t believe this will be much of a set back for Reigns. When he is able to, Big Show thinks Reigns will be ready to get back into the ring and pick up where he left off. He acknowledged how the coronavirus concerns are “bigger than Roman Reigns” and that he understands his decision.

“He has to take the precautions that he thinks are right. I’m proud of him for doing that. That’s the thing about WWE, they’re not going to ask you to do anything you’re uncomfortable with,” Big Show said. “As much as people like to talk trash or portray things of what goes on backstage. I’ve been with Vince McMahon 20 plus years, he’s never asked me to do one thing I’m not comfortable with. Even wearing 40 yards of silk up my butt to wrestle sumo wrestlers, Believe it or not, I was comfortable with that.”

WrestleMania 36 airs this weekend on April 4 and April 5. 

Triple H: Roman Reigns’ WrestleMania Story Will “Unfold In A Unique Way”

Steve Russell
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1

Triple H has teased that Roman Reigns’ WrestleMania story will pan out in a “unique manner.” Reigns recently pulled out of his WrestleMania 36 matchup. He was due to face Goldberg for the WWE Universal Championship. Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Triple H addressed Reigns’ decision, noting how there are different ways for fans to engage with the pro wrestling industry.

“Well, it’s a funny thing. You know, I think you can watch our business in multiple different ways,” Triple H said. “One of them is the storyline aspect of and [following] the storyline. Another way is the online component of it. And the reality of it behind it, Roman has is his situation and his reasons for doing the things that he’s doing.”

Triple H suggested that there are still plans in place for where Reigns can go from a narrative perspective. He added that he doesn’t want to go into too much detail, as he didn’t want to “give away the ending of the movie.”

He continued, “But I will say from our standpoint and the storyline standpoint, it’s going to play out in a unique manner. And we wanted it to play out that way. And, you know, it’s not necessarily putting me in an awkward position. It’s just me saying I don’t want to give away the ending of the movie before the movie takes place.”

“So I think everybody just has to watch and kind of see how this unfolds. But it will unfold in a unique way. And I think it will be meaningful, you know, for everybody. And again, there’ll always be critics and we’re doing the best we can.”

WrestleMania 36 airs on the WWE Network this weekend on April 4 and April 5.

Edge Discusses WrestleMania Relocating To The WWE Performance Center

Steve Russell
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0

WWE Hall of Famer Edge will be facing off against Randy Orton during this weekend’s WrestleMania event. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, WrestleMania 36 was set to take place at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Because of the outbreak, however, WWE was forced to relocate the show. The pre-recorded event now takes place from multiple places, including the WWE Performance Center. In an interview with USA Today, Edge opened up about the venue change and whether it has affected his approach to the match.

“I think we’re at a time where… everything’s so in flux and everything’s so strange right now. I guess if I’m looking at it purely from a performance aspect, you go ‘ahh.’ Because you love being able to be in front of an audience, feed of that, the adrenaline of that and all those things.”

Edge On Rolling With The Current “Normal”

Edge explained how he has been adjusting to this new “normal.” In doing so, he has embraced the challenges it brings and adapted as best he could to deliver in the run-up to his match.

“Then I started looking at ‘OK, well this is where we are. This is normal for now. So what are the challenges here, and how can you adapt and still make a compelling story?'” Edge explained. “I get off on the challenging aspect of it, and that’s how I started looking at it. So if I’m cutting a promo, well now I’m doing theater. I’m doing a monologue to a camera. And that was fun! That lets me explore my acting chops. So that’s how I tried to recalibrate my brain with it.”

Edge clashes with his formed Rated RKO tag team partner Randy Orton this weekend. The two will compete in a Last Man Standing match.

Stephanie McMahon On Delivering WrestleMania 36, Coronavirus Safety Measures

Steve Russell
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0

During a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Stephanie McMahon discussed if there was ever doubt WrestleMania 36 would go ahead. The “Show of Shows” has been forced to pivot and change due to the coronavirus pandemic. She stressed how this is an unprecedented time and that WWE was monitoring the situation closely on a day-to-day basis. 

“Ultimately, as brands and leagues and companies are reinventing themselves, it’s important to stay true to your mission,” she explained. “And our mission is to put smiles on people’s faces. We’re a fan-first company, we always want to provide an experience that is worthy of our fans’ passion.”

She continued, “We’re constantly looking at what other leagues are doing, what other providers are doing, assessing the landscape–can we make it as safe as possible? Where can we shoot the content? All of these different factors have come into play. We’re working with local, regional, and global agencies, we’re putting in the best possible testing measures that we can [and] all of the safety precautions that we’re taking to take this very seriously.” 

Stephanie McMahon then noted how their decision to deliver WrestleMania 36 isn’t “bullheaded” stubbornness. According to her, every aspect has been a “thought-through effort” in order to entertain the WWE Universe.

“It won’t feel and look like our biggest show of the year, but certainly from a content standpoint and a match standpoint, we’re trying to deliver.”

Stephanie McMahon Details WWE’s Coronavirus Safety Measures

Stephanie McMahon then her attention to the safety measures WWE has put in place to protect its staff and talent. She stressed how “every performance is voluntary for our performers and crew,” adding that this was a crucially important note to highlight. 

“[…] the Performance Center itself is a closed set. We’re shooting in waves. No one person, regardless of who they are, is allowed to enter if they have a temperature of over 100.4, or if they have been out of the country or been in touch with someone who has been out of the country.” 

She explained how they do “pandemic-level cleaning,” which includes fogging and ultraviolet light. Admitting that could be viewed as overkill, she isn’t concerned as safety is paramount. 

WrestleMania 36 airs on the WWE Network this weekend on April 4 and April 5.

Triple H On Why He Was Sent Back To Commentary During The First Empty Arena SmackDown

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE Vice President Triple H recently had an interview with Pat McAfee on The Pat McAfee Show where he discussed things like the coronavirus pandemic and more.

The Game’s special appearance on commentary during the March 13 episode of SmackDown created a lot of buzz on social media, though reports had later revealed that the original plans only called for him to be part of the opening segment of the show.

During the interview, Triple H talked about this change and revealed that the blowing fan reaction of his first appearance on the show made them alter things:

“I get on commentary for Cole to continue the reset but by the time I get off commentary in that first segment it’s blowing up and as I’m walking off to the side, everybody is pulling me back going, ‘Don’t take the headset off! Man, you gotta go back out there, do the rest of the show.’

I was like, ‘I don’t want to do the rest of the show.’ They talked me into it, so I went back out there” recalled Triple H. “and for me, it was just, ‘Alright, like, I’m not gonna be very good at this, so I’m just going to play the idiot.'”

The former World Champion then praised Michael Cole for his job and said that while he takes a lot of criticism, the man is gifted at what he does.

Triple H continued by recalling how Cole did not know that he was going to be back on the announcers’ desk and praised him for keeping the show together while also dealing with the ‘butt of his jokes’.

Quotes via WrestlingInc

AEW Held Another Round Of Tapings Thursday Night

Anutosh Bajpai
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It appears that AEW ran into some trouble while taping the latest set of their TV programs which included this week’s episode of Dynamite as well.

The latest set of TV tapings took place from QT Marshall’s Gym in Norcross, GA after the previous venues were closed. However, the city officials tried to intervene and attempted to shut down their operations.

Though the company had proper paperwork in place to allow the shooting to go forward and after being shown the documents, the officials stuck around to ensure that proper codes were followed throughout the tapings.

The original location for empty arena shows of AEW was the Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida but they had to relocate because the city officials had started using a parking lot near the venue as a major coronavirus testing center.

This development forced AEW to move its tapings to the Nightmare Factory in Norcross, Georgia, though it was also shut down temporarily due to a shelter-in-place order that was recently signed by Governor Brian Kemp.

Material they have taped will be used for shows until mid-May, although it’s unclear whether they have taped full shows or they will be mixing fresh content with older segments to fill out episodes like WWE.

It seems that WWE will also be affected by a new stay at home order issued by the Florida government and they might not be able to produce shows post-WrestleMania. You can check out a report on the matter here.

AEW Dynamite & NXT TV Viewership (4/1)

Andrew Ravens
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Viewership data is in for this week’s battle in the WWE NXT vs. AEW Dynamite Wednesday Night War. AEW won in total viewers. Both shows were down from last week. 

Here is the breakdown of the live and same-night DVR viewership, courtesy of ShowbuzzDaily:

WWE NXT Viewership

NXT on the USA Network averaged 590,000 viewers, which is down from 669,000 last week. In the 18-49 demo, they drew a 0.15 rating, down from the 0.20 rating that the show did last week. 

The episode featured a Second Chance Gauntlet Match to qualify for #1 contender Ladder Match, Dexter Lumis vs. Jake Atlas, Kushida vs. Joaquin Wilde, The Velveteen Dream vs. Bobby Fish, and NXT North American Champion Keith Lee vs. Damian Priest vs. Dominik Dijakovic.

AEW Dynamite Viewership

AEW Dynamite on TNT was watched by 685,000 viewers, down from the 819,000 viewers last week. In the 18-49 demo, Dynamite pulled in a 0.25 rating, down from the 0.34 rating that the show did last week. 

AEW Dynamite featured such as Kenny Omega vs. Trent, Lance Archer’s in-ring debut, Cody and Darby Allin vs. Sammy Guevara and Shawn Spears. There was also a segment with Chris Jericho at his home where he tried to get Vanguard 1 to join the Innercircle by offering him a t-shirt. 

Details On WWE Not Announcing WrestleMania 36 Match Order Yet

Andrew Ravens
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With WrestleMania 36 still being days away, the company has yet to release the match order for both nights of the show. 

This has caused fans to wonder as to what’s the hold up with the match order. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio shed some light on the situation. 

It turns out that WWE officials are still deciding which matches will air on which nights. However, the belief is that the decision should be finalized by Friday, which is the day before the first night. 

WWE filmed each match individually last week and there wasn’t an order in which those matches were taped.

Now, WWE is taking the time to edit the footage, add special effects, and then put it in an order based on the star power they have on their rosters. This is being done to put on the most exciting matches for each night. 

WWE presents the WrestleMania 36 pay-per-view event as a two-night event on Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5 in Orlando, Florida at the WWE Performance Center. Both nights start at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT will air on the WWE Network. 

There will be no fans in attendance due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming days. 

  • Triple H Discusses WWE Adapting To Changes Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

Chris Jericho Comments On A Possible WWE Hall Of Fame Induction

Chris Stephens
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Chris Jericho debuted for WWE in 1999. He wouldn’t work for another company for nearly two decades before working an angle with Kenny Omega in NJPW. Now, Jericho is one of the top-stars of AEW. Jericho recently took part in an interview with the Tampa Bay Times and commented on the possibility of one day going into the WWE Hall of Fame. According to Jericho, he’s not sure if that door will be open to him in the future.

“If I continue to work for the Khan family for the rest of my life, I’ll never go into the WWE Hall of Fame,” Jericho said. “Does that bother me? No. I mean, the Sex Pistols didn’t show up for theirs. I always kind of liked that.”

Jericho continued to say he’s a Hall of Famer in the minds of fans and in his own opinion.

“I’m a hall of famer in the minds of the people who want me to be in the hall of fame,” he adds. “I’m a hall of famer in my mind. That’s all that matters.”

Jericho also added that he has more creative freedom now in AEW than he did in WWE.

“After 30 years, I actually know what I’m doing,” he said. “In WWE I had that freedom, but there’s a process you have to go through there. There’s a lot of approvals and different heads of state that you have to go through before the idea is approved.”

The full interview with the Tampa Bay Times can be read here.

Rhea Ripley Comments On WrestleMania With No Fans

Chris Stephens
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Rhea Ripley is scheduled to face Charlotte Flair for the NXT Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 36 this weekend. The match was supposed to take place inside Raymond James Stadium in front of a packed crowd. Instead, the match has already been filmed in front of no live crowd at the WWE Performance Center.

During an interview with Fox Sports Australia, Ripley admitted to being disappointed about the change.

“The main reason I was bummed was that I knew my family wasn’t going to be there. It made me really sad to think I wasn’t going to be able to share that special moment with them and not see them at all, because I haven’t seen them for a long time,” she said.

“So to not have them there with me on the day, it made me really sad, and I had to remind myself that they’d be watching from home and cheering me on.”

Ripley would continue to say, however, that she knows fans will be watching from home as well and that provides motivation for her to do well.

“Even with the zero people in attendance, there’s still a crowd that’ll be cheering us on, and even if we can put a smile on someone’s face in this critical time, that’s me doing my job.”

She also commented on how even though WrestleMania this year is taking place at the WWE Performance Center, it’s still WrestleMania.

“So I need to think of the bigger picture sometimes. It’s still WrestleMania, and it’s still an amazing accomplishment. Even if it is at the Performance Center, it doesn’t take away the fact that it’s WrestleMania.”

The full interview with Ripley from Fox Sports Australia can be found here.

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