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Jerry Lawler Recalls Vince McMahon Not Wanting To Miss Lana-Lashley Wedding On RAW

Andrew Ravens
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Vince McMahon really wanted to see the wedding angle that the company presented, according to the story that Jerry Lawler recalled. 

The legendary pro wrestler told the story on the latest episode of his podcast about the WWE Chairman and CEO this past Monday. 

WWE held the wedding segment featuring Lana and Bobby Lashley on Monday Night RAW. Although McMahon left the XL Center in Hartford, CT on Monday afternoon before RAW went on the air, he came back around 5:30pm ET because he didn’t want to miss the ceremony.

“This thing was so good, it was gonna be so highly anticipated by everybody backstage. Vince had some very important meetings.”

Lawler noted how McMahon doesn’t miss show often but lately, he has due to all of the XFL commitments and decisions that need to be made. He called McMahon being torn in many different directions these days. 

“He actually left Hartford, CT at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, and everybody thought he was gone. Vince has his own office there, and he told everybody he had to leave. He left, the limousines took him out.”

Lawler recalled how he dressed in the Talent Relations office with Mark Carrano and they moved it into McMahon’s office because it’s a bigger and nicer room. They unpacked and sitting around until someone came in there to tell them the boss was back. 

“Somebody comes in and says, ‘Hey, Vince is on his way back, he doesn’t want to miss the wedding!'”

Lawler continued by noting that they were scrambling in the room trying to get their stuff together and his office back to how it was so McMahon wouldn’t notice. 

“Vince came back just to make sure he was there for the wedding. So, it was great.”

The wedding segment was hyped throughout the entire broadcast. Even though the overall rating of the show saw a big increase from last week, the third hour was the lowest viewed out of the three-hour show. 

Jerry Lawler Talks Online ‘Hate’ For Lana/Rusev Storyline

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcription

Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev Get Engaged

Andrew Ravens
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Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev shared some happy news to the world this week through the power of social media. 

The former WWE Divas Champion took to her official Instagram account where she announced that she is now engaged to Chigvintsev.

Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev Engaged

Nikki and Artem went public with their relationship in March 2019. She wrote the following: 

“Excited for 2020 and the next decade with you @theartemc. I said yes in France in November! We have been trying to keep it a secret but really wanted to share our excitement for the New Year!”

Artem also shared the news on his Instagram account when he wrote, “You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. So excited for what’s to come I love you more then anything and thank you for saying Yes.”

Congratulations to the happy couple. As of this writing, there’s no word yet on when the wedding will take place. 

Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev met in 2017 when they were partners on ABC’s hit dancing show, Dancing With The Stars, where they were eliminated on the seventh episode. 

Nikki had been a longterm relationship with John Cena. The couple announced their separation in 2018 after dating since 2012 and being engaged for a year. Prior to their split, John Cena and Nikki were scheduled to get married in May 2018.

Nikki was last seen in action on WWE programming in September 2018 where she challenged Ronda Rousey for the WWE RAW Women’s Title at the Evolution pay-per-view.

WWE Friday Night SmackDown Results & Live Coverage (1/3)

Eric Lynch
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The January 3rd, 2020 edition of WWE Friday Night SmackDown aired live on FOX from the FedExForum in Memphis, TN.

– This week’s show opens up with The Miz approaching Daniel Bryan backstage. He talks about The Fiend invading his home and violating his family, and there’s nothing he wants more than to get his hands on him. But, Bryan won the match against The Fiend, so he asks Bryan to kick his ass at Royal Rumble.

– The intro video rolls and we see a big fireworks display inside the arena to kick off the show. Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcome us on commentary. They hype up tonight’s main event: Roman Reigns & Daniel Bryan vs. Baron Corbin & Dolph Ziggler.

– Sasha Banks and Bayley come out to the ring with microphones. They talk about their plans for a big 2020, and Bayley says they will still set the standard and be role models. Lacey Evans and Dana Brooke interrupt, and Lacey takes issue with Sasha’s treatment of her daughter. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross interrupt next, and we have a match.

– Dana Brooke & Lacey Evans vs. Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross vs. Sasha Banks & Bayley: Lots of tags are traded in the opening moments of this one. Alexa and Nikki start getting some momentum, and Alexa starts beating down Dana Brooke. Sasha tags herself in and goes at it with Alexa now. Alexa fires up with a series of strikes, then Bayley tags herself in for the double team on Alexa. Dana tags herself in and starts going at it with both Bayley and Sasha. Dana hits a suplex on both Bayley, then one on Sasha. Alexa breaks up a pin attempt, then the aprons clear and everyone starts going at it in the ring. Bayley ends up hitting a cheap shot on Dana, then Sasha pins her for a two count. Bayley tags in for the double team for another two count on Dana. Lacey finally gets the hot tag and starts cleaning house. Dana ends up pulling Bayley out to the floor, while Lacey hits the Women’s Right on Sasha in the ring. Dana tags in and hits a Swanton Bomb on Sasha for the three count.

Winners: Dana Brooke & Lacey Evans

– Otis is shown backstage warming up when Mandy Rose walks in. Otis says his momma saw Dolph Ziggler destroying his fruit cake last week that he gave Mandy. Tucker comes to get Otis to get ready for their match.

– The Miz runs into The New Day backstage and they exchange words, leading to The Miz slapping their pancake tray down to the floor. It looks like they’ll settle it in the ring later tonight.

– Elias comes out to the ring and sings a song trashing Sami Zayn, The Revival, and Dolph Ziggler, among others.

– We see footage of The Revival backstage complaining about the Miracle on 34th Street Fight they had to do. They say SmackDown needs to put some respect on their name, and they worked too hard for this company to be made clowns of. Shorty G interrupts and tells them not to let what people say bother them. Shorty G says he embraced who he is, and it was the best decision he ever made. The Revival shuts down Shorty G, and G will face Wilder in singles action tonight.

– Dash Wilder vs. Shorty G: Scott Dawson is on commentary. Wilder and Shorty go back and forth in the opening moments until Wilder hits a big suplex and takes control. Shorty fights up and hits a suplex of his own, then he tackles Wilder out to ringside. Back in the ring, Shorty G steals the win out of nowhere, then Dawson hits the ring and attacks.

Winner: Shorty G

– Wilder and Dawson beat down Shorty G until Sheamus comes out to interrupt and make his return. Sheamus hits the ring, and The Revival leaves. Sheamus still wants to hit someone, so he hits a big boot on Shorty G. Sheamus poses for the crowd then leaves.

– The Miz vs. Kofi Kingston: Big E is at ringside for this one. Kofi starts off strong and frustrates Miz in the opening moments. The Miz rolls outside for a breather. Back in the ring, Miz turns it around and hits a series of running knee strikes on Kofi. Kofi blocks a shot, and he rolls up Miz for the upset victory out of nowhere.

Winner: Kofi Kingston

– The Miz can’t believe it, and he throws a tantrum all the way up the ramp.

– Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns are backstage for an interview. Reigns tells Bryan how important this is to him. They ask each other if they’re ready. Reigns says the only ones not ready are Corbin and Ziggler.

– John Morrison walks out of The Miz’s locker room backstage. He informs us that The Miz doesn’t have anything else to say tonight.

– Drew Gulak comes out for his match with Otis. Gulak cuts a promo on Otis saying Mandy Rose would never date someone who looks like he’s leaking butter, she wants to date someone like Dolph Ziggler or Gulak. Gulak has a powerpoint presentation on the big screen, but Otis interrupts and slams Drew on the mat.

– Otis vs. Drew Gulak: Gulak gets back to his feet and the ref calls for the opening bell. Tucker is at ringside. Otis hits another big slams on Gulak, and we see Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville watching on a monitor backstage. Gulak tries to roll up Otis, but Otis picks him up and puts him down with a vertical suplex. Otis with a Gorilla press slam now. We go backstage again, and now we see Ziggler talking to Mandy. Gulak starts fighting back, but Otis hulks up and shuts him down again. Otis hits a splash in the corner, and Drew is down. Otis hits the Caterpillar now. Otis goes to the middle rope and hits the Vader Bomb for the three count.

Winner: Otis

– Tucker celebrates with Otis as we go to replays.

– Braun Strowman is shown walking through the hallways of the arena.

– We see a promo for the Royal Rumble pay-per-view later this month.

– Braun Strowman vs. Cesaro: Sami Zayn and Shinsuke Nakamura are at ringside in Cesaro’s corner. Strowman starts off in control and hits a big splash in the corner. Nakamura is able to hit a cheap shot behind the ref’s back, and Cesaro starts fighting back. Braun overpowers Cesaro again, then Braun knocks Nakamua off the apron. The distraction leads to Cesaro getting the jump on Braun, but Braun slams him down again. Cesaro rolls out to ringside for a breather, and Braun follows. Braun runs around the ring and tackles Cesaro, Nakamura, then Cesaro again as Sami Zayn hides. Back in the ring, Sami causes a distraction, leading to Cesaro dropping Braun. Cesaro looks for the Neutralizer, but Braun reverses it into the running powerslam for the three count.

Winner: Braun Strowman

– Immediately after the bell, Nakamura hits the ring and knees Strowman in the face. Nakamura, Sami and Cesaro retreat up the ramp as Braun gets back to his feet.

– We see replays of the brawls between Roman Reigns and Baron Corbin last week.

– Roman Reigns & Daniel Bryan vs. Baron Corbin & Dolph Ziggler: The opening bell sounds and Reigns comes out swinging, but Corbin and Ziggler double team him early on. Ziggler starts going at it with Reigns now, but Reigns drops him with a boot to the face. Bryan tags in and continues brawling with Ziggler. Bryan kicks Corbin off the apron, then he throws Ziggler out to ringside. The lights start flickering and we hear Bray Wyatt laughing over the speakers. Reigns and Corbin tag in now. Reigns misses a shot and hits the Deep Six. Ziggler tags in and wastes some time talking trash. Reigns starts trading strikes with Ziggler now until Ziggler drops him with a neckbreaker. Corbin tags back in the for the double team. Reigns fights back with a Superman punch, then Bryan and Ziggler tag in. Ziggler misses a few shots, then Bryan takes Ziggler down with an elbow. Bryan hits a dropkick, then follows up with a series of kicks to the body. Bryan takes Ziggler up top and hits a Frankensteiner. Bryan hits the Yes Kicks now. Ziggler tries to roll up Bryan, but Bryan reverses it into the Yes Lock. Corbin interrupts, but Reigns takes him out with a spear. Ziggler superkicks Reigns. Ziggler misses a Zig Zag attempt on Bryan, and Bryan answers with a running knee to Ziggler’s face. Before Bryan can pin, the lights in the arena start going out. The Fiend appears and starts going at it with Bryan. He puts Bryan in the Mandible Claw at ringside, and he slams Bryan through the fan barricade. The lights go out, and when they come back on, The Fiend is gone. Trainers come out to check on Bryan. Reigns comes to check on him too, but Corbin and Ziggler ambush Reigns from behind. Corbin and Ziggler have handcuffs and dog food cans again. They cuff Reigns inside the ring and hold up the dog food cans, but then The Usos return to make the save. The Usos take out Ziggler on the ramp, then they give Corbin a double superkick in the ring. The Usos follow up with suicide dives on Corbin and Ziggler at ringside. They get back in the ring and help up Reigns.

Winners via DQ: Roman Reigns and Daniel Bryan

– The Usos undo Reigns’ handcuffs and raise his arms in the ring as SmackDown goes off the air.

Kane Appearing On ‘Steve Austin: The Broken Skull Sessions’

Andrew Ravens
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1

The guest for the third episode of WWE Hall of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s WWE Network show is set and it’s Kane who will be appearing. 

The guest for the show, “Steve Austin: The Broken Skull Sessions,” was recently announced. 

It’s Gotta Be Kane Appearing

On Friday, WWE confirmed via a post on Twitter that Austin’s third guest will be none other than the future WWE Hall of Famer. The episode premieres on WWE’s streaming service immediately following the NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool special next Sunday. 

WWE Reportedly Wants Steve Austin To Interview CM Punk

The first episode featured a 90-minute interview with The Undertaker that was largely praised by fans. WWE also aired this episode after a main roster pay-per-view event, which was Survivor Series in November. 

Last month, Austin had the chance to interview WWE Hall of Famer Goldberg, which marked the second episode. Now, the third installment will see Kane appearing.

Austin has stated in previous interviews that he has already filmed a few episodes of the show. So far, WWE has aired one episode with one interview featuring a legend each month. 

NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool II goes down on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at the Empress Ballroom and will air on their streaming service, the WWE Network. 

NXT UK Champion WALTER will make his next title defense against Joe Coffey in the main event of the show. 

WWE Hall of Famer Says The ‘Sky Is The Limit’ For Darby Allin

Jake Skudder
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WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray recently heaped a huge amount of praise on AEW star Darby Allin. During the latest episode of the Busted Open Radio Podcast the former Dudley Boy claimed that Allin is a star for the future.

“They start off with Cody and Darby and I think that was a really great first match,” Bully began. This whilst discussing the AEW Homecoming event that took place on New Year’s Day. “That kicked that night off really hot and that crowd was super into that show. They were a perfect example of how a hot crowd can help to make or break an event.”

“Twice I saw him at my friend’s house he has on a Darby Allin shirt”

Bully then claimed that Allin is going to be a major player for AEW going forward. “Darby Allin is going to be a major star for AEW. This guy is super over already. I loved his vignette before his entrance.”

Ray also discussed how Allin is appealing to younger fans, even below the mythical 18-34 demographic that AEW is attempting to hook. “It resonates with younger viewers. I have a good friend who has a nine or ten year old son and I’ve seen the kid now probably three different times. Twice I saw him at my friend’s house he has on a Darby Allin shirt. And once I saw him at a local indie show and he was painted up like Darby Allin. So if I’m seeing a ten year old on three different occasions and all three different occasions he’s wearing Darby Allin stuff it’s a pretty good indicator that not only is Darby connecting with the eighteen to thirty four year olds; but it’s clear that is connected with the younger audience.”

“…the sky is the limit for guys like Darby Allin”

Ray finished by saying that the sky is the limit for the young star. “I think between his unique look, his style, and the vignettes that they’ve been doing with him; man the sky is the limit for guys like Darby Allin. I look at Darby and I look at MJF. They’re so young. They’re so talented. When they get true polish on them week after week after week they are going to be unstoppable.”

Bully also went on to say that he believed that Darby Allin was this generation’s Jeff Hardy.

WWE Friday Night SmackDown Preview: Women’s Match, Royal Rumble Build

Andrew Ravens
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0

A new episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown is here, so let’s take a look at a preview for the show. 

With just hours until bell time, it’s time to look ahead to the show, which doesn’t have much announced to get fans excited about it. The company has yet to release the official preview article for the show on their website. 

There are also no dark matches locally advertised for the show either. What we do know is a match that was confirmed this morning by the promotion. 

WWE Friday Night SmackDown Preview

A Women’s Triple Threat Tag Team Match will see Sasha Banks and Bayley team up against Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross and Lacey Evans & Dana Brooke. No other matches or segments have been announced thus far for this show.

WWE holds this show from Memphis, TN at the FedExForum on FOX. Here’s what fans should expect to see on tonight’s broadcast in the form of a WWE Friday Night SmackDown preview:

  • Sasha Banks and Bayley team up against Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross and Lacey Evans & Dana Brooke in a Women’s Triple Threat Tag Team Match
  • More build for the Daniel Bryan-Bray Wyatt feud
  • Announcing more matches for the Royal Rumble pay-per-view 

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

WWE will also be announcing matches for existing feuds that will take place heading into the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event Sunday, January 26, 2020 Houston, Texas at the Minute Maid Park and airs on the WWE Network. 

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

Brian Pillman Jr To Face Jacob Fatu For MLW World Title

Chris Stephens
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0

The biggest match yet in the young career of Brian Pillman Jr. will take place in 8 days at MLW: Zero Hour in Dallas, Texas. MLW has just announced that Pillman will take on Jacob Fatu for the MLW World Championship at the event.

“Major League Wrestling today announced a World Heavyweight Title Fight: Jacob Fatu vs. Brian Pillman Jr. for MLW: Zero Hour at the NYTEX Sports Centre in the greater Dallas/Ft. Worth area on Saturday, January 11. The event will be a MLW FUSION TV taping for beIN SPORTS,” an MLW Press Release for the match reads.

Josef Samael from Fatu’s Contra Unit faction recently burned Teddy Hart with a fireball and sent Pillman’s Hart Foundation stablemate right out of the territory. Pillman will be looking for revenge in addition to the title.

MLW matchmakers stated that Pillman has earned the shot at the title due to his strong performance at the recent Opera Cup event.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1213123786003927041

MLW: Zero Hour Lineup – January 11th, 2020

  • MLW World Championship
    Jacob Fatu (c) vs Brian Pillman Jr.
  • Barbed Wire Match
    Mance Warner vs Jimmy Havoc
  • Ross Von Erich vs Tom Lawlor
  • Marshall Von Erich vs Maxwell Jacob Friedman
  • National Openweight Championship
    Alex Hammerstone (c) vs Aerostar
  • Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs Simon Gotch
  • Richard Holliday vs Savio Vega
  • Puma King & Drago vs Hijo de LA Park & Taurus vs Kotto Brazil & Jordan Oliver (Injustice)

AEW Dynamite & NXT TV Viewership (1/1/20)

Michael Reichlin
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Viewership data is in for the January 1st editions of AEW Dynamite and NXT TV. AEW had a strong showing up against NXT, which aired a “2019 Year-End Awards” highlights show for the New Year’s Day holiday. The ‘Wednesday Night War’ resumes next week when both shows are live head-to-head once again.

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

NXT TV Viewership:

NXT on the USA Network averaged 548,000 viewers this week, down from 831,000 on Christmas Day. That show ran unopposed. NXT drew did a 0.15 rating in the coveted 18-49 demographic, down from 0.22.

AEW Dynamite Viewership:

AEW Dynamite on TNT averaged 967,000 viewers with a 0.36 rating in the 18-49 demo, way up from 683,000 viewers and a 0.25 demo rating back on December 18th.

This week’s Dynamite was touted as a “Homecoming” for AEW and the 2020 Season Premiere. It was a stacked show that was widely very well-received. Highlights included Cody Rhodes vs. Darby Allin, a 4-way match for the AEW Women’s Championship, Jon Moxley in action and a red-hot main event that saw The Elite vs. PAC and the Lucha Bros.

Check out our detailed recap of the top happenings from AEW Dynamite:

Arn Anderson On Why WWE Never Got Behind Cesaro

Chris Stephens
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Arn Anderson recently discussed why WWE has never gotten behind Cesaro in a big way. Anderson commented on Cesaro in WWE during a recent episode of “the Arn Show.”

“He was probably outspoken, probably stood up for himself which is not taken lightly or very well,” Anderson said regarding why WWE has failed to pull the trigger on Cesaro.

“This is a guy who did a giant swing on Khali for god’s sake,” he continued. “If you didn’t see it, pull it up, find it.”

“Had it not been for Big Show having a bad knee or a bad hip, I can’t remember which, it might have been a bad hip. He had the wherewithal to giant swing Big Show. His hip being bad is the only thing that prevented it. Now, put that visual in your head. The guy is super-human strong.”

Anderson also said that Cesaro suffered as a result of working as a heel. This prevented him from doing some of his more crowd-pleasing moves.

“All the things that he had done to get himself over as a single when he became partners with Sheamus, these guys were heels, you didn’t want to do all the pretty stuff.”

Anderson’s comments regarding Cesaro can be heard in the player below:

Update On Why NJPW Is No Longer Airing On AXS TV

Chris Stephens
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New Japan Pro Wrestling events are no longer airing on AXS TV. There are also no plans for NJPW events to air on American television at any point in 2020. According to comments made recently on Wrestling Observer Radio, the reason NJPW is no longer on AXS TV has to do with them not agreeing to enter into a working relationship with Impact Wrestling.

“What ended up happening was that Impact and AXS basically said that you can stay on the station if we get a working relationship going and New Japan turned down the working relationship,” said Dave Meltzer on the show.

Dave Meltzer, Fumi Saito, and Jim Valley would continue to talk about how not having American television will impact NJPW’s attempts to run shows in the United States in 2020.

The Toronto-based company, Anthem Sports and Entertainment, owns both AXS TV and Impact Wrestling. They purchased AXS TV in 2019 and Impact in early 2017.

NJPW recently revealed on social media that there are no plans to air NJPW events on American television in 2020. Events continue to air live and on-demand on NJPW World with English commentary, however.

NJPW of America

New Japan announced in 2019 the formation of an American subsidiary, NJPW of America with the plan to run events in American cities.

BJ Whitmer Announces He And Kelly Klein Are Divorcing

Chris Stephens
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BJ Whitmer and Kelly Klein are getting divorced. Whitmer works backstage for AEW after having left Ring of Honor. Klein is still technically the reigning WOH World Champion despite her contract with ROH not being renewed.

Whitmer released the following statement recently on social media:

“I have a personal statement to make. My wife Kelly Klein and I are divorcing. This is happening because Kelly breached the trust in our relationship by stepping outside of our marriage. This is the only thing I have to say about the matter. This has been a very difficult time for myself and my family. News or our split was already spreading around the business and I wanted to make a statement before it made it to social media or wrestling media.”

The couple had been married since 2017.

Whitmer has since deleted or deactivated his Twitter account. Klein has not been active on social media in the last few days.

Kelly Klein Gone From Ring of Honor

Whitmer and Klein were both involved recently in a public conflict with their former employer, Ring of Honor. Klein’s contract with the company was not renewed following the conflict. A representative from ROH sent the following statement to media in regards to Klein’s departure from the company:

“We normally don’t discuss these matters but since it seems to have been made public — We did not fire Kelly but we did notify her that we would not be re-signing her when her current agreement expires. She is still under contract through the end of the year.”

Tetsuya Naito Discusses Double Gold Dash Opportunity

Steve Russell
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0

Ahead of his IWGP Intercontinental Championship clash against Bullet Club leader Jay White, Tetsuya Naito sat down with njpw1972.com to discuss his Double Dash Gold opportunity. Naito was clear about why he wanted to be the one to walk away on Sunday with both titles: to make history.

Naito was the first in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) to begin openly talking about being a double champion last year. For him, it’s all about making history and breaking old records.

“But when you’re the first to do something, that stays forever,” he explained. “I was trying to think of something that’s never been done before, that I could be first at. And then it hit me; double IWGP champion.”

He explained how “[…] there’s always been a distinction between the two titles; people wrestling for the Intercontinental Championship haven’t mixed with the Heavyweight contenders. So rather than have people think that I’ve gone back to just wrestling for the IC title, I wanted to say, no, I’m going to have this and wrestle for the heavyweight title as well.”

Tetsuya Naito’s Day One Ambition

The Los Ingobernables de Japon leader shared how he wanted to get rid of the idea that those competing for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship never move away from that scene. He reiterated how he’s never had any genuine interest in that championship, with the IWGP Heavyweight Championship always being his “number one belt.”

For Naito, defeating Jay White and once again becoming Intercontinental Champion is a means to an end. That end being the Heavyweight gold. Despite his goal, however, Naito stressed how “[…] the thing that I want the absolute most right now is the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Remember, that’s what I’ve said since day one: I want to win the IWGP Heavyweight Championship while holding the Intercontinental.”

Tetsuya Naito faces off against Jay White this Saturday on Night One of Wrestle Kingdom 14. The winner of their championship bout will go on to face the winner of Kazuchika Okada and Kota Ibushi for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship on Night Two.

Wrestle Kingdom 14 takes place this weekend on 1/4 and 1/5 from the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

Elias On His Championship Ambitions, The WWE Universe

Steve Russell
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4

WWE Superstar Elias took part in an interview with The Commercial Appeal ahead of tonight’s episode of Friday Night SmackDown, which takes place from the FedExForum in Memphis.

The former WWE 24/7 Champion looked to the year ahead, detailing his plans and championship aspirations. Elias has set his eyes on one title, in particular: the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Once he has claimed that gold, Elias would then like to eventually be in contention for the WWE Universal Championship. 

“I’ve got every tool you could imagine to get there, so it’s just a matter of opportunity and timing, as far as I’m concerned,” Elias said.

Elias And The WWE Universe

Elias returned to WWE programming in late November. He explained how his time away from the ring was spent travelling the world, noting how he spent time reflecting about what he has to do in order to get to the top of WWE. Elias came to an epiphany when he realized he wanted the support of those he has rejected over the years: the WWE Universe.

“They need to be on your side, and it just so happens I’ve got the power to manipulate people with my music, with my words, with everything I do, and it looks like that is the approach I am going to have to take moving forward,” Elias confessed.

When it comes to his music, Elias admitted that for most “the truth can hurt.” He is confident, however, that his return to Memphis won’t be ruined by previous things he may have said or sung. Instead, he believes that this time his truth will be accepted on a much grander level by those in attendance. 

MJF Discusses His Influences, Being Hated “For The Right Reasons”

Steve Russell
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1

All Elite Wrestling’s Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) was recently interviewed by local Florida newspaper, News Chief. During the interview, MJF took the opportunity to discuss his mentality when it comes to pro wrestling, portraying a loathsome heel, and which wrestling legends he has drawn inspiration from.

MJF recalled how, growing up, he loved all of the performers that most people hated. From Ric Flair, Tully Blanchard, Buddy Landel to “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. He highlighted how his “biggest inspiration would be the Hot Rod.”

Like those that pushed the envelope before him, MFJ is willing to throw himself wholeheartedly into being hated. He explained how, “If there’s a line that people make, I hop over it as far as I can.”

He continued, “No one can tell me how to do my job. I’ve had people jump guardrails, try to stab me, throw (urine) on me, throw batteries. All that means is I’m being myself. The issue isn’t me, it’s everybody else.”

MJF Wants To Be Hated “For The Right Reasons”

Despite not caring if fans boo him, MJF is adamant that people should dislike him for the “right reasons,” pointing to his former mentor, Cody Rhodes, claiming that Rhodes is a “sociopathic monster.”

“I want them to boo me for the right reasons,” he said. “Cody is a sociopathic monster. He’s been on a blood rage since AEW started by trying to make himself the face of AEW. I saved them from a Ghengis Khan, and I gave them a face everybody could love.”

“When They Die I Will Not Care”

One legend that MJF is eager to learn from is Ring of Honor’s Bully Ray. Despite his willingness to listen to Bully Ray, however, that doesn’t mean MJF is open to advice from just anybody. MJF likened some veterans to old dogs, saying “They want to be fed treats to feel important.”

When it comes to those few he does regard, he noted how he simply wants to “use them” and “when they die I will not care, and I’m going to make sure the business is in good hands.”

Lance Archer Wasn’t Sure He Would Stay With NJPW In 2019

Steve Russell
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1

The start of Lance Archer’s 2020 is remarkably different from the beginning of his 2019. Currently the IWGP United States Champion, Archer will face off against former champion Jon Moxley this Saturday at Wrestle Kingdom 14. The two will compete for the belt in a Texas Death Match. In an interview with Fightful, Archer recalled how he wasn’t even sure he would remain a part of NJPW in 2019.

“I had no idea (where I’d be in 2019). Legitimately, there’s no knock to anywhere else or anyone else, there was thought of leaving New Japan just for the simple fact that I didn’t know what was happening. I didn’t know what was going to continue to move forward or what was going to happen. But, it wasn’t a situation where I was actively looking to leave the company. It was just a point of actively looking to further my career.”

He continued, “At the time, starting in 2019, I didn’t know if that was gonna be in New Japan. Obviously the business has changed even drastically since the beginning of 2019. So, I was just looking to see what was going to be the next best avenue for myself.”

Lance Archer’s 2019 Upswing

Archer’s 2019 turned out to be transformative for the wrestler. Not only did he play a notable role in last summer’s G1 Climax tournament, he would eventually claim the vacated IWGP US Championship.

This victory marked what he referred to as his “first major singles title” in his career. In the run-up to their matchup on Saturday, Archer recently delivered an unsettling warning to Moxley. The winner of their match will compete the following day during Night Two of Wrestle Kingdom 14 against Juice Robinson.

H/T to Fightful for the transcription.

Wrestle Kingdom 14 takes place this weekend on 1/4 and 1/5 from the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

Charlotte Flair On How She And Andrade Began Dating

Steve Russell
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4

WWE Superstar Charlotte Flair recently took part in a Twitter Q&A session with her fans, utilizing the hashtag “#HappyWooYear.” Flair, who recently announced her engagement to RAW Superstar Andrade, answered questions regarding her relationship. She also addressed who she would like to compete against in 2020 and recalled Ric Flair’s impressions of her new fiancee when they first met.

When a fan asked her how their relationship first began, Flair confessed that she was the one who made the first move, asking Karl Anderson if Andrade was his friend. She also revealed that their first date was at catering during a WWE show and that the first time she realized she was in love with him was when she almost “accidentally said it on our first boat trip!”

As for her father’s impressions of Andrade when they first met, Charlotte recalled Ric saying “He’s a good wrestler!” Flair also took to Twitter to share his feelings on the engagement news.

Charlotte Flair also engaged with questions over who she’d like to face in the coming year. When asked to name the one person she hoped to have more matches with, Flair was succinct with her response, naming Alexa Bliss. She also expressed her interest in wrestling against WWE veteran Mickie James, declaring that they “need to have a match.”

Gene Snitsky Recalls His Time In TNA Wrestling

Steve Russell
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0

Former WWE Superstar Gene Snitsky was, at one point, a part of TNA Wrestling. Recalling his time with the company back in 2014 during a recent interview with Hannibal TV, Snitsky divulged why he ultimately left the promotion. For him, it was a case of not being paid what he felt he was worth. 

“At the time, they said it was going to lead to something and that whole deal,” Snitsky explained. “That never really materialized because of the money aspect. I was like ‘Well, do I really want to do this and not get paid what I think I should get paid or just nip it in the bud?’ I’m not one of those guys who are just along for the ride. I think very highly for myself, I know I’m a good athlete, I know I have charisma.”

Gene Snitsky On Dixie Carter

When asked if he had any opportunities to engage and interact with Dixie Carter, Snitsky confessed he didn’t. He explained how he shot a few vignettes with her, but that was the extent of their interactions.

Snitsky noted how Carter would be present and ready for when they needed to shoot their segment and, once completed, she left, leaving no time or opportunity for any real face time between them. 

H/T to Wrestlezone for the transcription. 

Joaquin Wilde Reflects On Decade-Long Journey To WWE

Steve Russell
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0

NXT Superstar Joaquin Wilde has reflected on his decade-long journey in getting signed to WWE. The Superstar shared his journey via Twitter, detailing his accomplishments, as well as his failures, as he continued to grind towards his ultimate goal.

A Wilde Decade

Looking back to 2010, Wilde shared how he had been invited to a WWE/FCW tryout camp but was ultimately rejected. The next year, he would sign with TNA. 2012 saw him win his first TNA X-Division Championship before he began DJ’ing in 2013. Wilde confessed that he only began DJ’ing as he believed it would make him “more interesting to WWE.”

His 2014 saw him DJ live on Sway in the Morning before he began training with Skayde in 2015. He then reached out to WWE, only to be rejected again. Despite this further setback, 2016 saw him continue to grow and improve, with Wilde earning his second X-Division championship. Unfortunately, this was the year he also suffered his first injury, breaking his wrist.

2017 would see him invited for a WWE Performance Center tryout. A near-death experience in Mexico, however, would force him to miss out on the opportunity. So, in 2018, he began wrestling for EVOLVE in the hope it would get him “closer” to WWE. He once again tried reaching out, only to be rejected once more.

In 2019, however, Wilde finally signed with WWE. He competed on WWE’s black-and-gold brand as well as 205 Live. He also competed in the NXT Breakout Tournament, losing in the first round to Angel Garza.

“It took me literally the entire decade to make it to WWE,” he wrote. “I never lost hope at any point, despite several rejections and setbacks throughout the journey. And after 10 years, the journey is still just getting started.”

After suffering an injury, Wilde revealed in November that he had been medically cleared by WWE to return to in-ring action.

The Revival Promise To “Change Everything” In 2020

Steve Russell
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0

Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson are ready to embrace the new year, and all that 2020 might offer them as a team. Taking to Twitter, Wilder reflected on The Revival’s success over the past few years, highlighting how 2020 is the year in which they “change everything.

“2017 was a wash. 2018 we got our groove back. 2019 we took control back. 2020 we change everything.”

Wilder and Dawson’s WWE contracts allegedly expire at some point this coming April. The team have frequently teased their interest in All Elite Wrestling. At one point, The Revival’s temporary partner, Randy Orton, also hinted at his interest in the promotion. Orton would subsequently sign a new multi-year deal with WWE. A 10-week extension was reportedly added to Wilder’s contract. This was due to time missed with the company thanks to a broken jaw he suffered in 2017.

The Revival Versus Harlem Heat

The Revival has recently continued their pursuit for a match against WWE Hall of Famers Harlem Heat.

The team disrespected Booker T during WWE’s TLC Kickoff show last year. Booker T recently addressed his interest in The Revival’s challenge, admitting that he and his brother, Stevie Ray, have spoken about the matchup. He added how he has “one more left in me” before lobbying another warning at The Revival, telling them not to “get jacked up, sucka!”

Tetsuya Naito Opens Up About Considering Leaving Pro Wrestling

Steve Russell
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This Saturday, during Night One of New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Wrestling Kingdom 14 event, Tetsuya Naito gets his opportunity at reclaiming the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. He faces Bullet Club leader Jay White for the gold.

Despite his Double Gold Dash opportunity, the Los Ingobernables de Japon leader revealed in an interview with njpw1972.com that for approximately six months he considered ending his wrestling career.

“I don’t want to go into specifics, but for a while, I thought I couldn’t wrestle anymore,” Naito stated. “Truth is for about six months, maybe since May, I had this kind of crisis of confidence.”

He continued, “From about May, I’d felt something was up, and I couldn’t put my finger on it. I thought I could cover it up, but I think the result was that it did come through. I was constantly wrestling in that state of unease. I hate going to the hospital, but I really wasn’t myself for a time.”

Tetsuya Naito’s Mental Strain

Reflecting on that time, Naito compared his mindset to having an injury. He noted how “things don’t get back to 100%”. When it comes to this particular issue he’s managed to recover thanks to some time off. He stressed that, 100% or not, he felt he was close to zero due to the mental strain, believing he might not be able to get into a ring again.

If successful in his match against White, Naito would go on to compete against the IWGP Heavyweight Champion on Night Two of Wrestle Kingdom 14. Kazuchika Okada and Kota Ibush clash for that title on Night One.

Wrestle Kingdom 14 takes place this weekend on 1/4 and 1/5 from the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan.

WWE Backstage Viewership Drops For New Year’s Eve Episode

Andrew Ravens
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1

The viewership numbers are in for the latest and final episode of WWE Backstage, a weekly talk show, in 2019. 

The show that aired on FS1 at 11pm ET drew 97,000 viewers. This is down from last week’s 153,000 viewers, according to Showbuzz Daily. 

In the 18-49 demographic, WWE Backstage drew a .03 rating this week, which is down as the previous rating last week of .05. Regarding the Cable Top 150, the episode ranked #124, the same ranking as last week. 

WWE Backstage drew a total of 1.060 million viewers after nine episodes had aired. The show averaged 117,777 viewers per episode.

It’s an interesting number as the show aired on New Year’s Eve and last week’s show aired on Christmas Eve. Many people thought both the shows would drop in viewership as a result.

It should be noted that former WWE Champion CM Punk didn’t make an appearance on the show. He confirmed earlier this year that his next appearance on the television show will be on January 21st. 

Instead, Renee Young, Christian and WWE Hall of Famer Booker T were featured on the show. 

WWE Backstage Viewership Numbers In 2019

WWE only has one more show of the weekly television series as it will air next Tuesday, which is New Year’s Eve. Here is how the viewership numbers look like since its premiere: 

  • November 5: 49,000 viewers
  • November 12: 100,000 viewers
  • November 19: 180,000 viewers
  • November 26: 121,000 viewers
  • December 3: 138,000 viewers
  • December 10: 127,000 viewers 
  • December 17: 95,000 viewers 
  • December 24: 153,000 viewers
  • December 21: 97,000 viewers  

AJ Lee Not Interested In Appearing On WWE Backstage

Chris Jericho Addresses If He Joined AEW Over Promise Of World Title Run

Andrew Ravens
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Chris Jericho addressed some interesting questions in a recent interview with The Aquarian. 

One of the questions was his decision to join AEW (All Elite Wrestling) and whether there was a condition that they’d make him AEW World Heavyweight Champion. Jericho ruled out this theory. 

“It doesn’t work that way. I would never say that. The belt is just a prop anyway. The important thing is how you conduct yourself, how you work in the ring, and how you connect with the audience. That’s much more important than having a title.”

Jericho became the inaugural AEW World Heavyweight Champion when he beat Hangman Page in the headliner of the All Out pay-per-view event back in August.

Chris Jericho Addresses WWE Question

Jericho had previously stated that he wouldn’t work for another promotion in the United States. However, things changed and he left the company that he had a relationship which was WWE after two decades of working for them and being a top star for the promotion.

Chris Jericho also addressed his decision to leave the WWE, which he stated that he did all he could in WWE and that he’s in a company (AEW) that he’s bringing up from scratch.

“That appeals to me. I could go back to WWE tomorrow and I know exactly where I’d stand. I prefer being here. There’s no limits. It’s uncharted waters. We don’t even know what’s going to happen from day to day at AEW. Also I think the fans like an alternative. Wednesday nights on TV rock now.”

Jericho is expected to make his next title defense on pay-per-view against Jon Moxley on Saturday, February 29, 2020 in Chicago, IL from the Sears Center. As of this writing, the promotion has yet to confirm this match.

Renee Young Talks ‘Wanting Out’ of WWE RAW Commentary

Jake Skudder
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WWE commentator Renee Young recently made some interesting comments during Corey Graves‘ After The Bell podcast. Renee was the first ever full time Women’s commentator on WWE programming back in 2019. The podcast show is part of WWE’s official podcast lineup in conjunction with Endeavour audio.

During Young’s interview with Graves he mentioned how she was now back in her ‘wheelhouse’ with her new role as the host of WWE Backstage on FS1.

“You know what, this is so simple,” said Young. “I think that I do best when I’m allowed to laugh at stuff and make things fun. I felt like I was not really able to do that as much on commentary. So to be back in a studio setting and just talk about wrestling as a fan. That’s something that couldn’t come across when I was on commentary. Now I can shoot the sh*t with Booker [T], we’ve got Paige on there, we’ve got Punk. I like to be able to talk not in soundbytes. That’s really the thing here.”

Renee Young “truly just being [herself] with no filter”

Renee then discussed how she found it difficult to adapt to the commentary booth on Monday nights. “I come from being on camera far more than just doing audio stuff. And even just sitting calling a match and trying to find the right spots to get in…and also just trying to ‘be myself,’ whatever that meant in that capacity. I feel like now doing [WWE] Backstage I am truly just being myself with no filter, no being ‘produced’ and whatnot. That makes me very happy.”

Second-Guessing Herself

Renee Young also added that she has her confidence back and is no longer second guessing herself. “When the commentary thing came up I was like ‘hell yeah I’ll try it.’ I think that I could find a way to try and make something work. But it’s definitely nice to not have to second guess myself anymore. I felt like I was second guessing myself on commentary all the time. Now I’m just like ‘cool I know what I’m doing.’ My confidence is back up at 100, it’s a world of difference.”

Renee Young co-hossts WWE Backstage Tuesday nights on Fox Sports 1.

Corey Graves Wants Jon Moxley Back in WWE, Predicts WrestleMania Main Event

Jake Skudder
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WWE commentator Corey Graves recently made some interesting comments about Jon Moxley on the latest episode of WWE’s After The Bell podcast. The show is part of WWE’s official podcast lineup in conjunction with Endeavour audio.

“I respect the hell out of what Jon Moxley is doing”

Graves was answering mailbag questions at the start of the show and one of the bigger questions posed to the SmackDown commentator surrounded former WWE Superstar Jon Moxley/Dean Ambrose.

“‘Do I believe that Jon Moxley/Dean Ambrose will return to WWE?’ I hope so” Graves began, “I respect the hell out of what Jon’s doing, he’s happy. I still keep in touch with him, even though that is ‘against all the rules.’ This is all part of his journey, but ultimately I think that the Lunatic Fringe needs to come back home at some point in the future.”

Moxley challenges Lance Archer for the IWGP United States Championship this weekend as part of New Japan’s Wrestle Kingdom 14 event.

WrestleMania Main Event

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The main event of WrestleMania 36 was another topic discussed during the Q&A portion of the podcast. When asked who he thinks will headline the show, Graves gave an interesting pick that might surprise people.

“My prediction for the main event of WrestleMania this year. The Universal Championship [will be] on the line…The Fiend, the reigning champion will defend against…Big E from The New Day.”

This is not the first time Corey Graves has pushed for Big E to get a run as a main event singles star. In fact, regular listeners of the show know that Graves has been touting Big E as a potential breakout member of the New Day faction.

“I’ve said it here on After The Bell, it’s about damn time for Big E to get his just do and have his opportunity at a big time singles run,” said Graves. “I think that Big E versus The Fiend under the bright lights of Tampa, Florida would be truly memorable.”

Killer Kross Applies To Trademark His Ring Name

Chris Stephens
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1

Killer Kross has applied to trademark his wrestling name. He’s wrestled in several promotions under the name, including with Impact Wrestling and AAA Lucha Libre in Mexico. Kross is scheduled to make his MLW debut on February 1st in Philadelphia.

Real name Kevin Kesar, the 34-year-old has also wrestled under the name Kevin Kross. He also wrestled as the White Rabbit briefly in Lucha Underground.

According to documents publicly available via the US Patents and Trademarks office, Kross applied to trademark the name “Killer Kross” for wrestling purposes on December 24th, 2019.

The documents filed state Kross may use the name for MMA events in addition to pro-wrestling.

“Entertainment services in the nature of live mixed martial arts (MMA) events; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer.”

Release From Impact Wrestling, MLW Debut

Kross has spent much of 2019 dealing with contractual issues relating to his former deal with Impact Wrestling. He was finally released from his deal last month. Shortly after his release, Kross was announced for MLW’s return to Philadelphia in February.

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