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WWE NXT Preview: Cruiserweight Title Match, TakeOver: Portland Fallout

Andrew Ravens
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WWE NXT is back for another episode and the fallout from the latest special for the brand, NXT TakeOver: Portland, will be on tap. 

The biggest thing to come out of NXT TakeOver: Portland was NXT Champion Adam Cole making his latest title defense over Tommaso Ciampa in the headliner. He did so when Johnny Gargano turned heel by hitting Ciampa in the face with the title. 

How Ciampa will respond to this and who’s next in line for Cole will be something to follow. 

The company is building up this show up around a few different matches including NXT Cruiserweight Champion Jordan Devlin defending against Lio Rush. 

WWE holds this show in Winter Park, Florida at Full Sail University. WWE is advertising the following items for tonight’s broadcast:

The Velveteen Dream vs. Roderick Strong – Singles Match

NXT Cruiserweight Champion Jordan Devlin defends against Lio Rush

Kayden Carter vs. Chelsea Green – Singles Match

NXT TakeOver: Portland fallout

WWE will also be creating new programs and building on the hype for existing feuds. 

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

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

AEW Dynamite & NXT TV Viewership (2/12)

Colonel Parker Returning To MLW

Chris Stephens
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0

Colonel Parker is returning to Major League Wrestling. The famed-manager hasn’t been seen in the promotion since 2018 when his Stud Stable came up short in that year’s Battle Riot event. Parker will be at MLW’s Intimidation Games from Chicago’s Cicero Stadium on April 18th, 2020.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1229994040982196225

“Having managed the likes of Steve Austin, Big Van Vader and Harlem Heat as well as promoting wrestling throughout the south, Colonel Parker has a stellar track record for success in the sport,” an MLW press release for Colonel Parker’s return reads.

MLW Signs Zachary Cooper

MLW has also recently announced the signing of Zachary Cooper:

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1230016714684993539

MLW is touting that the following names will also be in attendance in Chicago on April 18th, 2020:

  • LA Park
  • World Heavyweight Champion Jacob Fatu
  • El Hijo de LA Park
  • Gino “El Intocable” Medina
  • Laredo Kid
  • Puma King
  • “Filthy” Tom Lawlor
  • World Tag Team Champions The Von Erichs
  • Brian Pillman Jr.
  • CONTRA Unit
  • National Openweight Champion Alex Hammerstone
  • Richard Holliday
  • Mance Warner
  • Konnan
  • Septimo Dragon
  • Injustice
  • Dominic Garrini
  • Alicia Atout
  • Chris Dickinson

No matches have been announced as of yet for Intimidation Games. The event will be a taping for future episodes of MLW Fusion.

NWA Announces Crockett Cup 2020 Date & Location

Chris Stephens
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1

The National Wrestling Alliance announced earlier this year that the Crockett Cup would return in April. An exact date or venue for the show was not immediately revealed, however. Already scheduled for the card is a rematch from the 2019 Crockett Cup event between Nick Aldis and Marty Scurll.

The NWA revealed to its email subscribers yesterday that the 2020 version of the Crockett Cup will take place on April 19th, 2020 from the Gateway Arena in College Park, Georgia. The venue is the home arena for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream. The arena is also roughly a 30-minute drive from the GPB Studios that the promotion tapes NWA Powerrr in.

Last year’s winners of the tournament were PCO & Brody King.

Crockett Cup 2020

Marty Scurll and Nick Aldis will once again square off for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship at the Crockett Cup this year. There is a new stipulation added to their match this year, however. If Scurll should lose and is not able to win the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, he will have to cut Aldis a cheque for $500,000.

Aldis originally wanted Scurll to pay to refund the cost of tickets for everyone who attends the event. Scurll later offered the stipulation that he would cut Aldis a cheque for $500,000 instead.

Adam Cole On Possibly Retiring Triple H

Anutosh Bajpai
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2

The NXT Champion Adam Cole recently had an interview with Steel Chair magazine where he talked about things like the difference between working taped vs. live shows and more.

Discussing Shawn Michaels’ influence on his career, Cole recalled how Michaels was an inspiration for him growing up and how working with him in NXT is a dream come true.

He was then asked a very interesting question when the interviewer asked him about potentially facing and retiring his mentor and the Godfather of NXT Triple H. Replying to which, Adam Cole said that it’s something he would love do:

 “Anybody on our roster would agree. We all idolized Triple H or Shawn Michaels as kids, and now we’ve grown up” said Adam Cole. “we’re working together with them.

We’re really getting to see their minds and not only how smart they are, but how much they absolutely love this job. I wouldn’t pass that up for the world, that absolutely is something that I would love to do. I know many NXT talents feel the same way, and I definitely know a bunch of fans would love it.”

Later in the interview, Adam Cole talked about being at the Royal Rumble PPV and getting the chance to witness Edge’s return live during the show.

Cole said that it’s stuff that you dream about when you are a performer and as a fan, getting to see the former World Champion return to the ring was absolutely incredible.

Apart from this, Adam Cole also discussed his WrestleMania dream match, the evolution of his character and making the transition from the independent circuit to WWE.

Finn Balor Announced For NXT UK Tapings In March

Chris Stephens
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1

WWE has announced that Finn Balor will take part in the NXT UK tapings scheduled for Coventry SkyDome Arena in Coventry, England on the 6th and 7th of March. Balor’s scheduled appearance for the NXT UK brand comes on the heels of the promotion announcing NXT UK TakeOver: Dublin will take place on April 26th, 2020 from the 3Arena.

WWE announced Balor’s special appearance on both nights of the tapings on social media:

https://twitter.com/WWEUK/status/1229793564336455680?s=20

WWE NXT UK TakeOver: Dublin Announced

“The stage has been set for another epic event across the pond as NXT UK TakeOver: Dublin is slated for April 26 at 3Arena and on the award-winning WWE Network,” a WWE press release for the event reads.

Jordan Devlin On Friendship With Finn Balor

NXT Cruiserweight Champion Jordan Devlin is likely looking forward to competing on the Dublin event from his home country of Ireland. He spoke to TV Insider recently about his friendship with Balor.

“He was the best wrestler in Ireland then and probably now,” Devlin shared.” He was the person I most aspired to be like. He was always the guy I wanted to measure up to and up with. He went from Ireland to Japan to train, as did I. He went to New Japan Pro Wrestling. I went to Zero-One. He went to the States and WWE. I was a couple of years behind him when WWE signed me. We’ve been running the same path for a long time.”

Shelton Benjamin Reflects On His Friendship With Brock Lesnar

Steve Russell
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RAW Superstar Shelton Benjamin has opened up about his long-time friendship with WWE Champion Brock Lesnar. Joining Lilian Garcia on her podcast Chasing Glory, he detailed how he first met Lesnar and how the two became friends and training partners.

Reflecting on his senior year, Benjamin recalled seeing Lesnar at an amateur wrestling tournament. Whereas Benjamin ended up losing his match, taking third place, Lesnar wound up winning the tournament. He remembered his first impression on seeing “The Beast Incarnate,” sharing “when you see Brock it’s like, ‘holy cow.’ [University of] Minnesota coaches swarmed him…”

“I was a heavyweight. Even though I was a small heavyweight, I was a heavyweight all through high school and college, so basically me and Brock were in the same weight class,” Benjamin explained.

“So basically, when Brock finally transferred in, I had stayed on as a coach/I still had another year of my scholarship so I was a coach/sparring partner – so there were only two guys that could give Brock a match in practice, but there was only one full-time guy. So for about, anywhere from three to four hours a day, like with practice, me and Brock would just go at it.”

Shelton Benjamin’s Finer Points

Benjamin then recalled their training routine, noting how the first time they wrestled, he went to grab onto Lesnar’s leg. Lesnar would react by thrusting his hip and sending Benjamin flying “halfway across the room.” 

Benjamin knew at that point that he would have to help Lesnar refine his technique and teach him the “finer points.” Thankfully, Lesnar was ready to learn. Benjamin shared how he was like a sponge from day one. He stressed how some days he would be able to wrestle and wouldn’t be able to do anything to Lesnar. Other days Lesnar wouldn’t be able to successfully wrestle him. He then noted how there were occasions where, for two and a half hours, they were “two bulls locking horns, but that was my life and I loved it.”

WWE recently referenced their long-term friendship during January’s Royal Rumble event. Shelton Benjamin would be eliminated by Brock Lesnar.

H/T to WrestleZone for the transcription. 

AEW Dynamite Preview (2/19): Cody vs. Wardlow Cage Match, Moxley vs. Cobb

Andrew Ravens
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5

Another week, another stacked episode of AEW’s weekly television show, Dynamite. 

With bell time just hours away. It’s time to look ahead to tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite on TNT. The promotion has announced four big matches thus far. 

The show is expected to start with AEW World Team Champions Kenny Omega and Hangman Page vs. Luca Bros. Although not confirmed, the belief is that Cody Rhodes vs. Wardlow in a Steel Cage Match will serve as the headliner. If Cody wins this match then he’ll face MJF at the AEW Revolution event. 

AEW holds this show in Atlanta, GA at the State Farm Arena on TNT at 8 p.m. ET. AEW is advertising the following items for tonight’s broadcast:

  • Cody Rhodes vs. Wardlow in the first-ever Steel Cage Match in AEW history. As per Arn Anderson, this match will be “No Escape” with only pinfall or submission to determine the winner.
  • Jeff Cobb vs. Jon Moxley
  • AEW World Team Champions Kenny Omega and Hangman Page vs. The Luca Bros.
  • #1 Contenders’ Tag Team Battle Royal: The Young Bucks vs. SCU vs. Private Party vs. Jungle Boy & Luchasaurus vs. Best Friends vs. Santana & Ortiz vs. The Butcher & The Blade vs. Jack Evans & Angelico vs. Alex Reynolds & John Silver vs. Cima & Michael Nakazawa

AEW will also be creating new programs and building on the hype for existing feuds as the promotion gets closer to their next pay-per-view event, Revolution, that takes place next weekend.

Join us here later tonight for AEW Dynamite Results and our post-show Takeaways feature.

AEW Steel Cage

Here is a first-look at the steel cage to be used at tonight’s AEW Dynamite, courtesy of Reddit user @AimarEraFutebol:

TJP Reflects On Competing In NJPW’s Super J-Cup Tournament

Steve Russell
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0

TJP has opened up about how important New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Super J-Cup tournament is to him, calling it his own “WrestleMania moment.” He also reflected on his time in NJPW’s training dojo, and praised their resident “Ace”, Hiroshi Tanahashi, who he believes is the Babe Ruth of the promotion.

“The Junior division is why I started wrestling in the first place. The J-Cup, that was my WrestleMania moment,” he confessed during an interview with WrestleZone. “I joke with people, but I’m being serious, I never had a Mania moment. Like when I went to WWE, I never cared when I would see ‘Oh, I’m not on the card this year.’ That was fine, I never cared about a Mania moment but I always thought, ‘Man! I’ll never get the J-Cup. There’s only been like five of them in history,’ so when that came up this year and they were like, ‘We’d like you to be part of it,’ it’s like, ‘Man, this does not come up every year.’”

TJP explained how being in contention for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship has always been a goal of his. He juxtaposed it to WWE’s Intercontinental Championship, explaining how it’s the “[…] most important title for like ‘wrestlers’ wrestlers.’”

TJP On Hiroshi Tanahashi

TJP then spoke about Tanahashi, a man he clearly has a lot of respect for. He noted how, when he was training with the promotion as a young boy, Tanahashi was just ahead of him as a Young Lion. To him, Tanahashi is akin to John Cena and Babe Ruth.

“He was the class right ahead of me when I was a young boy so he was a Young Lion graduating when I came in the dojo. It’s really cool now at this stage to be back a part of the organization,” TJP said, “and he’s been like their John Cena for so long. He’s been the Babe Ruth over there and arguably the greatest babyface of all time.”

TJP competed during last year’s Super J-Cup. He advanced through to the second round. He was eliminated by El Phantasmo.

H/T to WrestleZone for the transcription.

Rhea Ripley Opens Up About Nearly Quitting, Trades Words With Charlotte Flair

Steve Russell
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2

Charlotte Flair and NXT Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley are set to compete for the gold at WrestleMania 36. Following Flair’s recent promo on Monday Night RAW, Ripley responded to “The Queen” via Twitter, with their feud spilling over onto social media. During their exchange, Ripley revealed how she had considered quitting pro wrestling several times before finally finding success. 

“I didn’t scratch, claw, and fall down as many times as you did to gain respect?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!” Ripley wrote on her account. “I’ve made my name from absolutely nothing. I didn’t get my WWE contract handed to me on a golden platter because of my last name!”

Flair responded, dismissing her argument and calling her delusional: “Sweetie, that’s your problem. You’re delusional enough to believe that you’ve ‘made your name’.”

“So… What you’re saying is that a no named so and so went toe to toe with yourself and Sasha Banks, pinned the self proclaimed “Queen” of WWE for a victory, and then went on to win the women’s Survivor Series match,” Ripley wrote, before adding, “Says a lot about you then…”

Her WrestleMania challenger replied, saying how her attempts stand toe-to-toe with her “looks an awful lot like rolling up a crucifix from behind while the grownups were wrestling. But yeah, sure. Congrats on that…”

Rhea Ripley then opened up about how she nearly quit multiple times over the years. She stressed how she’s not a quitter before highlighting it’s taken her seven and a half years to earn her opportunity. Now that she has, she refuses to “stand down to anyone.”

Drew McIntyre Wants A Match With AJ Styles

Steve Russell
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The winner of the 2020 Men’s Royal Rumble match is set to face off against WWE Champion Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 36. However, in a recent interview with Adi Kft & EGO Total from Israel, Drew McIntyre revealed which other Superstar he would love to have a one-on-one match with: “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles.

When asked whom he’d like to compete against, Drew McIntyre admitted there were several Superstars he’d love to clash with. For him, however, it’s AJ Styles. He noted how, for some reason, they’ve been like ships passing in the night.

“[…] but the number one guy who I keep missing over the years – we are like ships crossing each other over the night – we missed the chance on IMPACT and the independent scene. Promoters are trying to book this match for a long time, but for some reason or another I couldn’t make it, he couldn’t make it.”

McIntyre continued, “When I came back to Raw he was on SmackDown. Now we are both on Raw, and that would be AJ Styles. I don’t think, I know we could have great matches and do a lot of cool things together. It’s been years coming so I am looking forward for it.”

Drew McIntyre challenges Brock Lesnar for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 36. The event takes place on April 5th from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

H/T to WrestlingNews for the transcription.

ABC’s Black-ish References NJPW, Name-drops Top Stars (Video)

Steve Russell
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2

Pro wrestling continues to once again become more integrated into the general tapestry of pop culture. WWE was at one time pretty much the only promotion to be referenced by most mainstream shows. That’s no longer the case. Turns out that New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) has fans amongst the writers of ABC’s comedy sitcom Black-ish.

The show uploaded a clip yesterday to promote last night’s episode. In it, the scene features a nod to The Shawshank Redemption. It also directly references New Japan’s premiere event, Wrestle Kingdom. It even name-drops two of the promotion’s top stars: Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada.

Black-ish x NJPW

After throwing his video game controller at the wall in frustration, Andre Johnson Sr. approaches the wall. He then tears away at a poster that had been hiding a hole. Understandably, he demands an explanation. He’s then informed how Junior and his brother were trying to recreate “the classic Wrestle Kingdom Okada-Tanahashi match.”

After attempting a Rain Maker, Junior accidentally threw his brother into the wall. The result was the unfortunate damage.

It didn’t take long for Okada to see the clip. He retweeted it, thanking the show for the “shout out.”

The promotion’s Twitter account, NJPW Global, also shared the clip, writing “Can’t be helped” alongside a shrugging emoji. 

Tommaso Ciampa Reveals He Is Taking A “Hiatus” From Social Media

Steve Russell
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0

NXT Superstar Tommaso Ciampa has revealed he is taking a hiatus from social media. The former NXT Champion shared his intentions via his Instagram account alongside a black-and-white image from last Sunday’s NXT TakeOver: Portland event. The photo showcases Ciampa staring at his former DIY tag team partner, Johnny Gargano. They both grasp at the NXT Championship during a pivotal moment during Ciampa’s matchup against Adam Cole.

Opening up about his decision, Ciampa explained his decision. Although grateful for the support from the WWE Universe during his surgery and rehab, he admitted that it was time to “block out the noise.”

“Time to block out the noise. I will be taking a hiatus from social media for the time being. Thank you all for your support during surgery and rehab, and for the incredible reception during my return and throughout the journey to Portland. #WeAreNXT“

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8tyE3cJnYY/?utm_source=ig_embed

Following their grappling for the title, Gargano would end up turning on his friend, striking Ciampa with the belt. Gargano’s actions ended up costing Tommaso Ciampa his chance at finally reclaiming his beloved “Goldie.”

This came after Cole’s stalemates from the Undisputed Era had also impacted the match, attempting to help their leader hold onto his championship gold.

Keith Lee Reveals What Roman Reigns Told Him After Their Survivor Series Encounter

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Survivor Series was the first official introduction of Keith Lee for the casual WWE fans and it’s safe to say that the NXT star left a lasting impression on the fans with his performance during the night.

Lee was the special guest for this week’s episode of WWE Backstage. During the episode, the current Champion talked about a number of things and also reflected on his big moment at the PPV last year.

The NXT North American Champion also talked about coming face to face with Roman Reigns during the last segment of the elimination match they were competing in and Keith revealed what The Big Dog told him after the bout:

“He speared me out of my boots on to my neck but after that, that moment right there set a tone for me” recalled Keith Lee. “And after that was over with he then told me straight up ‘I want a one on one match with you.'”

Keith Lee also revealed his dream match during the episode and said that since Kurt Angle is retired now, his #1 dream opponent at the moment is the former US Champion Cesaro.

Apart from this, Keith Lee talked about his encounter with Brock Lesnar during the Royal Rumble PPV and responded to CM Punk’s praise for him.

Latest Update On The Big Show’s Status

Anutosh Bajpai
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1

It appears that WWE is planning to use former World Champion The Big Show a bit more extensively in the coming weeks as he is booked for a number of upcoming WWE events.

Per reports from PWinsider, the Monster Sized Athlete was backstage for this week’s episode of Raw but he wasn’t used on the show. He is now booked for the following episodes of Red Branded Show:

  • February 24 from Winnipeg
  • March 2 from Brooklyn
  • March 9 from Washington, DC
  • March 16 from Pittsburgh

The Big Show is also expected to be backstage for the upcoming Super Showdown event from Saudi Arabia on February 27 but it’s not known what he will be doing at the event.

The former World Champion returned to WWE programming after a two-year hiatus last month and he got involved in the feud between Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins.

Show competed in the first-ever Fist Fight during the January 13 episode of Monday Night Raw. He was once again taken off of the WWE programming after this but Kevin Owens had announced that the Attitude Era star will return eventually.

Big Show is currently being advertised to face Seth Rollins at the mentioned shows so while there is no update on the plans for his future, it’s likely that he will continue his rivalry with the Architect and his crew when he returns to WWE TV.

Brock Lesnar Advertised For Upcoming Raw Episodes

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

WWE Champion ‘The Beast’ Brock Lesnar and his advocate Paul Heyman have been confirmed for appearances at the upcoming two episodes of Monday Night Raw.

Both the MTS Place in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York which are the venues for February 24 and March 2 episode of Raw have recently announced Lesnar for the respective events.

The February 24 episode will be the go-home show for the Super Showdown event where the WWE Champion is set to defend his title against Ricochet in a one on one match.

So it’s likely that he will have a confrontation with the One and Only before their championship match in the Middle Eastern country on Thursday, February 27.

On the other hand, the March 2 episode will be the ideal place to start hyping his WrestleMania match and it would make sense for Brock Lesnar to have a showdown with his WrestleMania opponent Drew McIntyre during the episode.

The arena in Winnipeg is also advertising Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton and Big Show vs. Raw Tag Team Champion Seth Rollins for the upcoming episode of the Red Branded Show.

Though it’s most likely that one of these matches will end up being the dark main event for the show with the other one being changed to fit the script of the episode.

JBL Reportedly Set To Be Inducted In Hall Of Fame

Anutosh Bajpai
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After it was confirmed that the Hart Foundation member Davey Boy Smith will be going into Hall Of Fame, a new report has revealed another interesting name for this year’s class.

Former World Champion John “Bradshaw” Layfield or JBL is set to be inducted into Hall Of Fame during the WrestleMania weekend this year, according to WrestlingInc.

The former WWE Champion started his career way back in September 1992. He wrestled for NWA and toured the world to compete in countries like Mexico and Japan before joining WWE in January 1996.

The company ended up being his home for the rest of his career. Layfield stayed active in the promotion for almost 14 years and won over half a dozen championships during his tenure as an active wrestler.

While JBL went through many character tweaks during his career, his run with Faarooq as a tag team known as Acolytes Protection Agency or APA is one of the periods most fondly remembered by the fans.

John announced his retirement from active competition after losing an Intercontinental Championship match to Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania XXV and he has been making sporadic appearances for the company ever since.

If these reports are true then JBL will be joining Batista, nWo, The Bella Twins, Jushin “Thunder” Liger and The British Bulldog in the Hall Of Fame class of 2020.

Potential Title Match For WrestleMania 36

Andrew Ravens
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12

A new match has been revealed for the upcoming WWE WrestleMania 36 PPV.

It was noted by Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live that the current plan is for SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley to defend the title against Naomi at the biggest event of the year for WWE. 

WWE has already announced Carmella vs. Naomi for Friday’s episode of SmackDown on FOX. The winner of this contest will then challenge Bayley for the strap at the Super ShowDown show in Saudi Arabia on February 27.

As of this writing, there’s no word yet on whether this currently planned match at WrestleMania will have an impact on Bayley’s title defense at Super ShowDown. 

There’s no word yet on if they plan to do Carmella vs. Bayley in Saudi Arabia, and then Naomi vs. Bayley at WrestleMania.

WWE presents the WrestleMania 36 pay-per-view event on Sunday, April 5, 2020 in Tampa, Florida at the Raymond James Stadium that will air on the WWE Network. WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming weeks. 

Updated WWE WrestleMania 36 Card

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar vs. Drew McIntyre

WWE NXT Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair

What are your thoughts on this match being added to the card? Sound off in the comment section.

Final WWE Friday Night SmackDown Viewership (2/14)

Andrew Ravens
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0

The viewership numbers are in for Friday’s edition of WWE SmackDown on FOX from Vancouver, CA at the Rogers Arena.

SmackDown averaged 2.464 million viewers, according to ShowbuzzDaily. This is down from the 2.538 viewers that the show did for last week’s episode of SmackDown on FOX. 

The show averaged 2.482 million viewers in the fast nationals, which was down from the 2.547 million viewers a week ago. This number measured the top metered markets. 

WWE SmackDown Viewership

The first hour drew 2.521 million viewers while the second hour did 2.442 million viewers. For comparison, the first show of last week’s show did 2.555 million viewers while the second hour did 2.539 million viewers. 

SmackDown pulled in a 0.70 rating in the 18-49 demos, down from the 0.80 rating as last week’s show.

This episode was expected to see its viewership stay steady and it did so due to it featuring an appearance by WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan to do a segment with Universal Champion Bray Wyatt. 

Matches

Matches that took place on this show included SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley vs. Carmella, Sheamus defeats Apollo Crews & Shorty G in a Two On One Handicap Match and Daniel Bryan & Roman Reigns vs. John Morrison & The Miz in a tag team match that served as the main event. 

In case you missed the show, you can check out the 5 takeaways from it here.

WWE is expecting to see an increase in viewership for the following episode this coming Friday night as the show will be setting up feuds for the Super ShowDown event in a few weeks. 

Watch: Top 10 Moments from Friday Night SmackDown (2.14.20)

Eves Torres Says Donald Trump Forcefully Grabbed Her In 2009

Chris Stephens
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20

Eve Torres was discovered by WWE in the 2007 Diva Search. After winning the competition, she became a member of the smackdown brand in 2008. In 2009, Torres was at a WWE event taking pictures when she says she was forcefully grabbed by Donald Trump.

Torres took to Instagram to post a lengthy statement on the matter along with photos from the event.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8sfLTPlsB9/?utm_source=ig_embed

“Happy Presidents Day.
I look forward to having a president who doesn’t grope or objectify women. I have taken pictures with thousands of men at military bases, at WWE events, and signings, and very few have grabbed me and pulled me in as forcefully as he did without knowing me. Of course, at the time I believed it was my job to be eye candy in a photo for this supposed billionaire, and play along. It is actually hard for me to see that photo because it reminds me of my beliefs about my worth at the time. Swipe to see what I mean. Swipe again for a brush up on Creepy Hug Defenses including the Inappropriate Photo Squeeze.
PS The pregnancy announcement is old so no I’m not pregnant again. Also, this was scary for me to post but it’s been on my mind. We haven’t forgotten about your p+$$y grabbing, Mr. President.”

“This is so helpful, thankful,” wrote Sasha Banks.

“So sorry you had to endure that,” wrote Terry Crews.

“Thank you for saying this,” wrote Gail Kim.

“Wow! Crazy! Sorry you had to go through that crap. Funny, that trumpers will still defend & support him,” wrote Chavo Guerrero Jr.

Eves Torres & The Divas Championship

Torres is a former three-time WWE Divas champion. Only AJ Lee had won the Divas Championship as many times as Torres did throughout her career. Torres ranks fourth on the list of total days spent with the Divas championship with 260.

WWE Divas Championship Stats:

  1. AJ Lee (3x) 406 combined days spent as champion.
  2. Nikki Bella (2x) 307 combined days spent as champion.
  3. Maryse (2x) 265 combined days spent as champion.
  4. Eves Torres (3x) 260 combined days spent as champion.
  5. Michelle McCool (2x) 218 combined days spent as champion.
  6. Beth Phoenix (1x) 204 combined days spent as champion.
  7. Charlotte Flair (1x) 196 combined days spent as champion.
  8. Kaitlyn (1x) 153 combined days spent as champion.
  9. Layla (1x) 140 combined days spent as champion.
  10. Paige (2x) 119 combined days spent as champion.
  11. Melina (2x) 119 combined days spent as champion.
  12. Kelly Kelly (1x) 104 combined days spent as champion.

Cody Rhodes On Using WCW PPV Names, Jeff Cobb, & More

Chris Stephens
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0

Cody Rhodes recently took part in a media call to promote tomorrow night’s episode of Dynamite from Atlanta. Rhodes noted during the call that this week’s Dynamite is from his hometown and the show will carry a special significance for him. Cody is scheduled to face Wardlow in the first-ever AEW steel cage match on the card.

During the interview, Cody was asked about the trademarking of WCW Pay-Per-View names and if we will see any more of those in the future. Cody noted that we likely won’t see many more WCW Pay-Per-View names used though he made a point of noting there is one former WCW PPV that we might see return, though he would not say which one.

“I’d actually say it’s unlikely you see many more of those, maybe one *wink wink wink,*” Cody said during the call.

“That’s more about protecting (Dusty’s) legacy for my mother,” Cody continued to say about the WCW PPV trademarks.

Cody also addressed Jeff Cobb’s status while on the call. Cobb made a surprise appearance on last week’s episode of Dynamite and is scheduled to face Jon Moxley on this week’s. Cody would not go into too much detail regarding Jeff Cobb, noting that he is signed for more shows but that he hopes Cobb will sign a longer deal in the future.

Cody named Jack Evans as an underrated guy in AEW. He noted that several other names came to his mind as being underrated as well. Cody also said that he and Taz will be scouting some NCAA wrestling events for talent.

The interview with Cody can be heard in the player below:

Billy Corgan Talks Helping To Create The “Broken” Universe In TNA

Chris Stephens
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Billy Corgan’s National Wrestling Alliance is preparing for the 2020 version of the Crockett Cup this April. The promotion has taken big strides in the last few months with the debut of NWA Powerrr last fall. Billy Corgan spoke to Chris Van Vliet recently about what he learned during his time with Impact Wrestling.

“I was intimately involved and happily so with the whole Deletion angle, Broken Universe, got to shoot a lot of great stuff with Matt & Jeff,” Corgan said during the interview. “Shot on the Hardys property for the one crazy segment, drones, I mean we did it all. I can’t believe the fire marshalls didn’t show up.”

“Wrestling is 100+ years old and like music, a cynicism can creep in that tells you there’s really nothing new,” Corgan continued. “And kids and great ideas can prove over and over again that’s not true, you can always rewrite the rules of gravity.”

Corgan continued to talk about the Deletion angle. He explained how the angle taught him you can do new things in an old business.

“So being intimately involved with the Deletion angle told me that if you got a cool idea and you have great talented people like Matt and Jeff and the other people that were involved with that – Rosemary comes to mind, and Abyss, and Crazzy Steve – you can change the world. You can turn it upside down on its head. If you remember during that period of time, that was the most talked about thing in professional wrestling. Good and bad, as it should be.”

Corgan’s comments can be heard in the player below:

Randy Orton Sends Message To Matt Riddle, Riddle Responds

Chris Stephens
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Randy Orton seemed conflicted on RAW this Monday when he apologized to and then attacked Matt Hardy. He sent out a Twitter message to Matt Riddle recently which seemed to be just as conflicted.

Orton sent out the following to his followers on Twitter recently:

Matt Riddle then responded with the following:

Matt Riddle also put out what he is referring to as an official statement regarding Johnny Gargano’s actions from TakeOver: Portland. Gargano turned on Tommaso Ciampa in the main event, costing Ciampa the title in his match against Adam Cole.

Riddle and Pete Dunne are currently celebrating winning the NXT Tag Team Championships from Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish. Riddle and Dunne are the 17th team to win the NXT tag team championships. They enter the title’s 20th reign in its lineage.

https://twitter.com/SuperKingofBros/status/1229614976547119104

Kyle O’Reilly wrote the following about Undisputed Era dropping championships lately:

Triple H recently addressed Matt Riddle’s possible heat with Vince McMahon at a press event for TakeOver: Portland.

“To be honest with you, I haven’t asked anybody about it. Vince didn’t express his disapproval of anything that was said, and I’m sure if there were an issue, he would’ve called me directly. He’s not shy about that.”

Tammy Lynn Sytch (Sunny) Parole Hearing Scheduled

Chris Stephens
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Tammy Lynn Sytch (aka Sunny) has been in prison for almost a year stemming from legal problems catching up with her in early 2019. Sytch’s legal troubles are a result of multiple DUI offenses and various dangerous driving charges. Sytch has also had bail revoked in recent years for failing to report her whereabouts, or what the courts refer to as “failing to maintain a stable residence.” She also has failed to pay court-ordered payments of $120 to remain out on bail.

There could be some good news coming for Sunny soon, however. According to PW Insider, she has a hearing on February 20th, 2020 as part of a parole petition filed by her new attorneys last month.

Tammy Lynn Sytch In Wrestling

Sunny was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011 and has been referred to as the original Diva. Her role with the company in the 1990s in many ways helped kickstart the Attitude Era. In addition to her Hall of Fame induction, Sunny has been honored by the Cauliflower Alley Club and is a 2x Slammy Award winner.

Report: Davey Boy Smith To Be Inducted Into Hall Of Fame This Year

Anutosh Bajpai
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So far WWE has only announced a couple of entries into the Hall Of Fame 2020 but reports have revealed other names for this year’s class.

Two such entries that were revealed last week were the induction of the Bella Twins, Nikki Bella & Brie Bella and Japanese wrestling legend Jushin “Thunder” Liger. Now another name has been added to this list.

The rumors for it were first heard last week and Dave Meltzer confirmed on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Live that “The British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith will be going into Hall Of Fame this year:

“So obviously they announced Batista and the nWo, these are confirmed. The Bella Twins people know about them, that was out last week along with Jushin Liger and the other one is Dave Boy Smith. Dave Boy Smith will be going into the Hall Of Fame.”

Davey Boy Smith had numerous stints with WWE including his initial run with the promotion from 1984 to 1988. Though probably his most notable tenure was when he signed with the company in 1994.

It was during this time when he formed a tag team with Owen Hart and they were later joined by Bret Hart, Jim Neidhart, and Brian Pillman to form a new version of the Hart Foundation. This run ended shortly after the Montreal Screwjob.

If this report is true then Davey Boy Smith will be joining ‘The Animal’ Batista and the members of nWo in Kevin Nash, Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall, and Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman into the Hall Of Fame class of 2020.

Jeff Jarrett Praises Elias: “He’s Got An Aura About Him, A Charisma”

Steve Russell
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WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett has shared high praise for modern-day musical Superstar, Elias. Speaking with Metro.co.uk, Jarrett stated how Elias is set for big things in WWE thanks to his charisma and aura. 

“He’s got a huge upside,” Jarrett said. “His injury last year was unfortunate, because he was really starting to get on a roll.”

He continued, “He’s got something that you can’t teach, that you can’t coach, that you can’t manufacture. He’s got a unique set of skills. He’s got an aura about him, a charisma about him that’s very unique. The fact that he can play, and sing, and wrestle, and write music, and tie it all together – it makes him a very entertaining character.”

Elias’ WrestleMania Matchup

Elias is reportedly set for a big match at this year’s WrestleMania against none other than John Cena. It’s speculated that WWE will begin to build towards a match between them when Cena returns to WWE television. He is currently scheduled to appear on the February 28th episode of SmackDown. The belief is that Elias would be able to get the rub from Cena, even in a losing effort. 

WWE presents the WrestleMania 36 pay-per-view event on Sunday, April 5th, 2020 in Tampa, Florida at the Raymond James Stadium that will air on the WWE Network. WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming months. 

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