Home Blog Page 1879

WWE RAW Recap & Reaction (7/17)

Robert Lentini
-
20

Dean Ambrose kicked off this week’s episode of RAW. Ambrose came down to the ring with a steel chair and stated that he was feeling bent out of shape because of The Miz. Ambrose called out The Miztourage and then took a seat on the chair in the middle of the ring. Seth Rollins then came down to the ring and joined Ambrose.

Rollins asked Ambrose why he was picking a fight he cannot win on his own. Rollins told Ambrose that he appreciated his toughness but he should calm down and come up with a better plan. Ambrose said that this was his battle and told Rollins to go away. Seth asked Ambrose if he will be standing in his way or by his side when he takes the fight to The Miz.

Dean hasn’t forgotten about Rollins turning his back on The Shield. Rollins got in Dean’s face and said that was three years ago and apologized. Seth stated that he has lived with that every single day of his life. Rollins said that he remembers Dean cashing in his MITB contract and defeating him for the WWE Championship. Rollins asked Ambrose if he will ever be able to move on from it.

Rollins then dared Ambrose to hit Rollins with the chair. Ambrose stared at Rollins for a bit and then threw the chair out of the ring. The Miz interrupted and was joined by Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel. The Miz said Rollins and Ambrose were wasting their time because Ambrose will never forgive Rollins. The Miz went on to boast about getting the best of Ambrose for the past few months.

The Miztourage walked towards the ring and The Miz stopped on the entrance ramp as Bo and Axel surrounded the ring. The Miz, Bo and Axel all grabbed chairs and surrounded the ring. The crowd started chanting “Roman” as Rollins and Ambrose were beaten down. The Miz slammed Ambrose into the steel steps outside the ring. The Miz then joined Bo and Axel in the ring. Miz hit Rollins with a Skull Crushing Finale onto the chair in the ring. The Miz hit Ambrose with the chair one more time and The Miztourage celebrated on the entrance ramp by raising the chairs in the air.

Reaction: I don’t know why The Miz and Ambrose still need to be in a feud. The inclusion of Rollins, Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel makes things a little more interesting, but I’d prefer to see The Miz feuding with someone else for the Intercontinental Championship. Dean Ambrose absolutely needs this mini-Shield reunion to work. He is as boring as it gets right now.

The Miztourage were shown exiting the arena in a hurry to avoid any type of retaliation from Ambrose and Rollins.

Bayley vs Alexa Bliss

Bayley beatdown Alexa in the corner to start off the match. Nia Jax came down to the ring and RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Alexa was in control of the match and Nia was ringside. Bayley fought back as the crowd chanted her name. Bayley bounced Alexa’s head off the turnbuckle and followed it up with a Clothesline that knocked Bliss to the mat.

Bayley connected with a Flying Elbow but clutched her injured arm after hitting the move. Bayley climbed to the second rope and hit an Elbow Drop. Alexa rolled out of the ring and Bayley chased her out there. Nia Jax got in Bayley’s way and Alexa capitalized. Sasha Banks then sprinted to the ring and hit Nia with a Dropkick. Back in the ring, Bayley planted Bliss with a Bayley to Belly for the victory.

Winner: Bayley

Kurt Angle was backstage with Corey Graves. Angle said he was having second thoughts about revealing his secrets tonight. Graves told Angle that the story will eventually get out and his reputation will go down the toilet. Graves said that the best way to handle this would be for Angle to tell the world himself. Angle agreed and stated that Graves’ friendship means the world to “both of us” and walked away.

Drew Gulak & Brian Kendrick vs Mustafa Ali & Jack Gallagher

Gulak and Kendrick beatdown Gallagher early, but Gallagher fought back with a series of headbutts. Gallagher then tagged in Ali and he then hit the inverted 450 Splash on Kendrick for the quick victory.

Winners: Mustafa Ali & Jack Gallagher

Enzo Amore came down to the ring to cut a promo. Enzo stated that their isn’t a man in the wrestling business that can elicit a reaction like himself. Enzo said that you always have to fight for what you believe in and brought up Big Cass. Amore said that Cass was the only one left standing during most of their matches and Cass being 7 feet tall never won them any championships. Big Cass finally interrupted after Enzo went on for several more minutes. Cass got into the ring and Enzo escaped and hopped over the barricade. Enzo then pulled up a chair and a child fan joined him. Enzo said he was going to sit back and enjoy this and Big Show came down to the ring.

Cass charged at Big Show while he was on the ring apron. Big Show shrugged it off and then beatdown Cass outside the ring. Big Show slammed Cass against the barricade as the crowd chanted “how you doin?”. Big Show slapped Cass across the chest and the sound echoed throughout the arena. Cass drove Big Show into the ring post and then focuses his attack on Big Show’s ribs. Enzo ran into the ring and Cass hit him with big boot. Cass then left the ring as Big Show and Amore were laid out in the ring.

Reaction: Enzo’s promo went on a bit too long in my opinion, but I didn’t dislike this segment. I’m assuming that Big Show will face Cass at SummerSlam. The entire purpose of this feud is to help get Big Cass over with the WWE Universe. He looked dominant tonight.

Roman Reigns was interviewed backstage about his #1 contenders match later tonight with Samoa Joe. Reigns said that he was going to defeat Joe and move onto to Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam. Reigns stated that he is the big dog around here and this is his yard.

Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins were arguing backstage. RAW GM Kurt Angle showed up and said that next week Rollins and Ambrose will face any two members of The Miztourage. Ambrose wanted to face all three members and Rollins agreed. Next week it will be Rollins and Ambrose versus The Miztourage.

Elias Samson started performing a song in the ring and the crowd chanted “we want Balor”. Samson insulted Nashville and the crowd and was quickly interrupted by Finn Balor.

Finn Balor vs Elias Samson

Samson started out the match in control. Balor battled back and connected with a kick that sent both Superstars to the mat. Balor connected with a Dropkick and then a series of jabs to Samson in the corner. Samson planted Balor with a Powerbomb for a two count. Samson climbed to the second rope and Balor connected with a kick that knocked Samson out of the ring. Balor hit a Dropkick and then punted Samson’s face while he was on the ring apron. Balor then connected with another Dropkick that knocked Samson to the barricade. Samson grabbed his guitar ringside and bashed Balor over the head with it. Balor’s head was busted open a bit by the guitar shot.

After the match, Bray Wyatt appeared on the screen and started laughing. Bray stated that the look of pain on Balor’s face ignites his soul. Wyatt told Balor that he was going to summon all the power’s of the devil and reign them down on Balor. Wyatt then cackled again.

Winner via DQ: Finn Balor

Reaction: Samson and Balor had a solid match. Bray Wyatt and Balor will probably have a match at SummerSlam and Balor will come down to the ring as “The Demon King”. It should make for an interesting feud. I thought Wyatt’s feud with Rollins lacked any momentum and I never really understand what they were fighting for. I hope WWE has a better storyline for this feud.

Bayley and Sasha Banks had a conversation with Angle backstage. Both Sasha Banks and Bayley thought they should be the #1 contender for the RAW Women’s Championship. Angle announced that Bayley will face Sasha Banks next week and the winner of that match will face Alexa Bliss for the RAW Women’s Championship at SummerSlam.

The Revival were interviewed backstage about their attack on The Hardy Boyz. Dash and Dawson said that they don’t care about The Hardys, but guaranteed that after their match with them tonight, The Hardys will care about The Revival.

Akira Tozawa vs Ariya Daivari

Daivari controlled the match early as Titus O’Neil was ringside. Daivari slammed Tozawa’s shoulder into the turnbuckle for a two count. Daivari continued to attack Tozawa’s injured shoulder for the next couple of minutes. Titus O’Neil then hopped up on the ring apron and told the referee to stop the match. Tozawa was pissed off at Titus for stopping the match and screamed that he never quits.

Winner: Ariya Daivari

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/887128767528747008

RAW GM Kurt Angle came down to the ring to reveal his secret. Angle revealed that he dated a young lady in college and that she gave birth to a baby boy. The boy was then put up for adoption. Angle talked about his son pursuing his dream of becoming a WWE Superstar. Angle then announced that Jason Jordan was his son. Jason Jordan then came down to the ring and hugged Angle as the crowd didn’t react at all.

Reaction:  I honestly don’t know what to make of this storyline. I think it is idiotic right now, but hopefully something entertaining comes of this in the future. This segment somehow felt uneventful after all of the times Graves and Angle were shown getting text messages. I’m also disappointed that American Alpha is likely going to be broken up because of this. Time will tell if this storyline becomes a success, but it started out with a thud. The crowd’s reaction tonight said it all.

The Revival vs The Hardy Boyz

The Hardys attacked The Revival before the match started as the crowd chanted “Brother Nero!”. Matt Hardy and Dawson started off the match. Matt got the upper-hand and tagged in Jeff. Jeff continued the beatdown and then Matt got back into the match. Matt wrestled Dawson down to the mat as Gallows and Anderson were shown backstage watching the match.

The Revival took control of the match and isolated Matt in the corner. Dawson booted Matt in the midsection and then connected with a couple of chops in the corner. Matt then bashed Dawson’s head off of every turnbuckle. Matt followed it up with a Bulldog for a two count. Jeff was tagged and Dash and Dawson were knocked out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, The Revival were back in control. Dawson focused his attack on Matt’s leg and hung him up on the turnbuckle. Dash was tagged in and Jeff Hardy ran into the ring and shoved him to the mat. Dash and Dawson beatdown Matt in the corner while the referee forced Jeff back out of the ring. Dash continued to focus on Matt’s knee for the next couple of minutes and then tagged Dawson back in.

Matt Hardy finally tagged in Jeff and Dash was tagged in at the same time. Jeff connected with a Dropkick for a one count. Jeff booted Dash in the face and then hit a Splash off the second rope for a two count. Dawson distracted Jeff and Dash hit Jeff in the back of the head. Dawson was tagged back in and Jeff Hardy planted him with a Twist of Fate but Dash broke up the pinfall. Jeff went to the top rope but Dash shoved him off and Jeff landed crotch-first on the top rope. Dawson then pinned Jeff while using grabbing Jeff’s pants for leverage.

Winners: The Revival

Reaction: I thought that this was a solid match. The Revival are a terrific tag team. One can only hope that they get over with the WWE Universe soon. If they don’t, Dash Wilder may be announced to be Triple H’s son in a couple of months.

Samoa Joe was interviewed backstage and guaranteed a victory over Roman Reigns tonight.

Titus O’Neil told Tozawa backstage that he stopped the match to protect Tozawa’s future. Tozawa then demanded a match with Daivari on 205 Live tomorrow night. A No DQ match between Elias Samson and Finn Balor was also announced for next week’s episode of RAW.

Samoa Joe vs Roman Reigns (Winner Faces Brock Lesnar For Universal Championship At SummerSlam)

Joe slapped Reigns in the face and Reigns knocked him down with a shoulder tackle. Joe then rolled out of the ring to regroup. Reigns kept punching Joe in the face as he climbed up on the ring apron. RAW went to a commercial break with Reigns in control of the match. When RAW returned, Joe was in control and connected with a kick to Reigns’ head.

Reigns knocked Joe to the mat with a Clothesline. Reigns connected with a boot to Joe’s face that sent him to the mat. Reigns geared up for the Superman Punch but Joe rolled out of the ring. Roman followed him to the outside but Joe connected with a massive Clothesline. Joe then charged at Roman again but Reigns was ready and connected with a Clothesline of his own and both Superstars fell to the floor outside the ring. RAW then went to another commercial break.

When RAW returned, Reigns planted Joe with a Samoan Drop for a two count. Reigns went for a Superman Punch but Joe caught him and kicked him in the face. Joe then connected with a Senton for a two count. Reigns connected with the Superman Punch but Joe kicked out at two. Braun Strowman’s music hit and Strowman charged towards the ring.

Reigns hit Strowman with a right hand and knocked Strowman off the ring apron. Braun bashed Reigns into the barricade and then threw him through the second and top rope back in the ring. Joe and Strowman started brawling outside the ring. Braun leveled Joe with a Clothesline. Braun got back into the ring and beatdown Reigns in the corner. Joe got back into the ring and Braun beat him down in the corner as well.

Joe locked in the Coquina Clutch but Roman hit him with a Superman Punch. Reigns then went for a Superman Punch onto Strowman but Braun caught him and planted him with a Spinebuster. Strowman slammed Joe to the mat. Braun lifted Reigns up and hit him with a Running Powerslam. Strowman picked Reigns up once again and planted him with another Running Powerslam.

Reaction: Samoa Joe and Roman Reigns put on a very good match to close out the show. The Universal Championship at SummerSlam is going to be very interesting no matter what it turns out to be. It amazes me how easily Strowman can lift up Superstars like Joe and Reigns. RAW was bizarre tonight, but at the very least there are things to talk about. Kurt Angle’s secret turned out to be that Jason Jordan was his son. It just sounds ridiculous, but the storyline’s success will come down to what WWE does in the next few weeks. The SummerSlam main-event is still up in the air on who gets to face Brock Lesnar for the Universal Championship. I think the best case scenario would be a Fatal 4-Way match and it clearly seems like WWE is heading in that direction.

What did you think of this week’s RAW? Let us know in the comments below.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (7/17)

Eric Lynch
-
621

The July 17th, 2017 edition of WWE RAW aired live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN on the USA Network.

– The broadcast kicks off with a video highlighting the Kurt Angle mystery storyline with Corey Graves. It shows clips of Kurt Angle winning the Olympic gold medals, and also getting married, with Angle saying the secret could cost him his career, his marriage, and his kids.

– Dean Ambrose is out to the ring to kick off RAW, and he’s got a steel chair. Ambrose calls out The Miz, but he gets Seth Rollins instead. Rollins takes issue with Ambrose interfering in his match last week. Ambrose gets in Rollin’ face over his betrayal of him three years ago, and Rollins apologizes. Rollins apologizes a second time and says he’s moved on, and asks what it will take for Ambrose to move on too. Rollins turns his back to Ambrose and tells Ambrose to hit him with the chair to make things even. Ambrose contemplates it, but throws the chair out of the ring instead. Rollins turns to face Ambrose, and The Miz interrupts. Miz comes out to the stage and says Ambrose won’t forgive Rollins, but he also needs Rollins in order to beat Miz. Miz says he’s brought a welcoming party out for them, and with that Miz, Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel surround the ring with steel chairs. The Miztourage gets the better of Rollins and Ambrose with the steel chairs. Miz takes Ambrose outside and throws him into the ring steps, then rolls in the ring. Dallas and Axel hand Rollins over to Miz, and Miz hits the Skull Crushing Finale on Rollins into a steel chair. Miz delivers another chair shot to Ambrose at ringside, then The Miztourage leaves with Ambrose and Rollin both laid out.

– Bayley vs. Alexa Bliss is up next.

– The Miz is seen backstage walking away from an interviewer and exiting the arena.

– Bayley def. Alexa Bliss: This one is a non-title match. Bayley hugs a crying kid at ringside on her way to the ring. Alexa starts things off with a slap to the face, and Alexa answers with a spinebuster into the corner and some knee strikes. Alexa and Bayley trade kids until Bayley drops her with a flying forearm and pummels on her. Nia Jax’s music hits and she makes her way down to the ring to interrupt. Nia comes down to ringside and the distraction leads to Bliss laying out Bayley. Bayley dodges a splash in the corner and comes back with a flying back elbow off the middle rope. Bayley follows up with a back suplex and a leg drop. Bliss rolls outside and Bayley follows. Nia gets in Bayley’s face, which leads to Bliss sneaking around and hitting the cheap shot on Bayley. Bliss takes Bayley back in the ring, then Sasha Banks comes out and drops Nia at ringside. The distraction leads to Bayley hitting the belly to belly suplex on Bliss in the ring for the win. Nia and Alexa head up the ramp together while Bayley and Sasha celebrate in the ring.

– We go to the announce table where Cole introduces an ESPY Awards highlight reel with clips of John Cena and The Miz at the award show. Corey Graves checks his phone abruptly leaves the table.

– Kurt Angle is backstage looking nervous with Corey Graves. Angle is having second thoughts about going public tonight, and Graves reminds Angle that we live in the age of social media and the secret will get out anyways. Angle agrees, and says we should hear this from Angle himself. Angle thanks Graves and says his friendship means a lot to Angle and the mystery person.

– Tozawa is backstage with Titus O’Neil and Apollo Crews. Ariya Daivari interrupts and asks where Tozawa’s honor has gone. Daivari demands a rematch and walks off.

– Jack Gallagher & Mustafa Ali def. Brian Kendrick & Drew Gulak: Kendrick looks to start the match, but hten he tags in Gulak before doing anything. Gallagher gets lots of offense in on Gulak early. Gulak breaks free and drops Ali from the apron, then sweeps Gallagher and pummels on him. Gallagher starts mounting a comeback until Kendrick gets the tag. Kendrick immediately goes to work on Gallagher, but Gallagher comes back with a headbutt and tags in Ali. Ali hits the inverted 450 splash on Kendrick for the win after a short match.

– Enzo Amore is backstage getting ready to come out to the ring.

– Enzo comes out to the ring with a mic and puts himself over for cutting better promos than Cass. He says Cass being 7 feet tall never wont them any title belts. Enzo says Cass tried to throw him out of is life, but he’s still in it. He shows us a clip from last week’s segment with Cass and Big Show, and says Cass wrote a check he couldn’t cash and he sucks. Enzo says Cass has a foot and 100 pounds on him, but that Cass folded like a lawn chair when someone his own size got in his face. Cass comes out to interrupt with his new entrance music. Cass says Enzo is always running his mouth and hasn’t learned his lesson, so he’s going to beat some sense into Enzo. Cass hits the ring and Enzo runs outside. Enzo hops into the crowd and tells a fan to watch what’s about to happen, then The Big Show’s music hits. Big Show hits the ring and immediately him and Cass start brawling out of he ring and all around ringside. Show throws Cass into the fan barricade multiple times before Cass fights back with right hands. Big Show fights back and powerslams Cass onto the floor as Enzo watches. Show brings Cass into the ring and hits some chops. Cass comes back with a shot into the ring post and delivers several big boots and punches to Big Show. Enzo runs in but Cass drops him with a big boot. Cass heads to the back as Big Show and Enzo recover.

– Roman Reigns does an interview backstage where he says the stakes are high tonight against Samoa Joe, but that he’s at his best when the stakes are high. Reigns says he will beat Joe tonight, then beat Lesnar at SummerSlam.

– Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose are backstage arguing about what happened earlier with The Mistourage, when Kurt Angle interrupts. Angle tells them next week they can have any two members of The Miztourage in a tag match. Ambose says he wants all three members and Rollins agrees, so Angle gives them a handicap tag match next week.

– Finn Balor def. Elias Samson via DQ: Samson cuts a promo about his history in Nashville and music, but gets interrupted by Balor. Balor strikes first but Samson quickly shuts him down and slams him to the mat. Balor mounts a comeback and takes things out to ringside where he hits the running dropkick. Samson senses the end is near and he grabs the guitar and smashes it over Balor’s head for the disqualification. Trainers check on Balor after the match as he appears to be busted open.

– Bray Wyatt appears on the big screen and laughs at Balor, who is still being tended to by trainers. Wyatt says that in order to satisfy his soul, he needs to inflict pain on Balor. Wyatt says he feels the need to punish Balor, and will enjoy it.

– Kurt Angle is backstage preparing for his announcement later, when Sasha and Bayley interrupt. Sasha and Bayley argue over who deserves a title shot more, so Angle books them in a singles match for next week. The winner determines who will face Alexa Bliss at SummerSlam for the Women’s Title.

– We briefly go to the announce table where Cole, Graves and Booker T promote WWE Battleground and the WWE Network.

– We see footage of The Revival attacking The Hardys last week. Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder do an interview where they says they’re going to get the Hardys again this week too.

– Ariya Daivari def. Akira Tozawa: Titus is at ringside in Tozawa’s corner. Tozawa takes control early on, but starts selling a shoulder injury and Daivari capitalizes on it. Daivari tries to keep Tozawa grounded as Titus cheers on Tozawa from ringside. Tozawa tries to fight back, but Daivari keeps going after the shoulder. Tozawa mounts some offense with some kicks and a back suplex. He goes up top but misses and Daivari capitalizes with a running knee to the head. Daivari stomps away on Tozawa. Titus gets on the apron and the ref calls for the bell. It appears that Titus called for the ref to end the match, which leads to arguing between Titus and Tozawa after the bell.

– Kurt Angle is backstage getting ready for his announcement.

– RAW GM Kurt Angle makes his way down to the ring and gets on the mic. Angle apologizes for being such a distraction in the past few weeks, and says he’s glad to say that his family and employer both support his announcement tonight. Angle says while he was in college he dated a woman and stopped, but recently found out that woman gave birth to a baby 9 month after their last date. The boy was put up for adoption, and it was discovered that the boy is currently on the WWE roster. With that, Angle welcomes the newest member of the RAW roster, and his son, Jason Jordan of American Alpha. Angle starts crying as the American Alpha music hits and Jordan comes out to the ring. Jordan steps into the ring and he and Angle hug. Angle and Jordan share the moment then head to the back together.

The Revival def. The Hardys: The Hardys attack before the match starts. The ref separates them and calls for the opening bell. Matt starts off with Dawson and unloads on him with offense in the corner. Jeff and Matt trade quick tags and double team Dawson. Gallows and Anderson are shown backstage watching. Matt and Jeff continue the offense on Dawson until Wilder runs in, but they take Wilder down too and knock The Revival down to the ringside floor. The Revival takes control after a double team on Matt. Jeff finally gets the hot tag and gets a close 2-count on Wilder, but Dash breaks it up. Matt gets Dash out of the ring, then they hit the Whisper In The Wind on Dawson. Jeff goes for the Swanton, but Dash pushes him down form the turnbuckle when the ref isn’t looking. Dawson covers after the cheap shot for the win.

– Samoa Joe is backstage where he says he showed the world last month that he doesn’t fear Brock Lesnar, and came within inches of beating him. He gives Roman Reigns his props but says Reigns will learn too that Joe is more than an obstacle. Joe guarantees that the third time against Reigns will be a charm tonight.

– Cole introduces a video package about the Special Olympics, featuring Dana Warrior interviewing a powerlifter named Norris Peterson. Norris is in the front row at RAW tonight and gets a big pop from the crowd.

– Titus is backstage with Tozawa and he apologizes for getting the match called earlier. Titus says he was just thinking of Tozawa’s future. Tozawa says he wants Titus to get him a rematch with Daivari for 205 Live.

– Samson vs. Balor in a no DQ match is announced for next week’s show.

– Roman Reigns vs. Samoa Joe – No Contest: The winner of this one gets a shot at Brock Lesnar’s Universal Title at SummerSlam. Joe slaps Reigns across the face early on but Reigns comes back with right hands and floors Joe. Reigns sends Joe to the outside and Joe regroups. Back in the ring, Joe comes back and mounts some offense, then drops Reigns with a suplex for a two count. Reigns comes back with strikes in the corner and drops Joe with a big boot. Reigns sets up for a Superman punch, but Joe rolls out to the floor to recover. Reigns follows Joe outside and attempts a Drive By kick, but Joe avoids it and drops Reigns with a clothesline. Reigns comes back with a clothesline of his own and drops Joe on the floor. Back in the ring, Joe rocks Reigns with headbutts until Reigns fights back with a Samoan Drop. Reigns blocks a kick from Joe and hits the Superman punch for a 2 count. Both men are down when Braun Strowman’s music hits and he comes down to the ring.

Strowman pulls Joe off the apron, then turns his attention to Reigns. Reigns hits Strowman with a right hand that sends Strowman off the apron. Reigns throws more strikes at Braun until Braun grabs him and throws him into the barrier. Braun throws Reigns back in the ring, then turns his attention to Joe at ringside. Joe and Braun start brawling all over ringside until Braun drops Joe then cimbs back into the ring. Braun beats down Reigns, but Reigns comes back with a big boot. Reigns knocks Braun into Joe, and Joe locks Braun into the Coquina Clutch. Reigns hits a big boot on Braun then a Superman punch, which breaks the Coquina Clutch. Reigns goes for another Superman punch but Braun catches him and slams him with a spinebuster.

Braun beats down Joe and Reigns then goes to leave. Braun stops and turns back around and grabs Reigns as security approaches. Braun scares off the security and hits a powerslam on Reigns. STrowman leaves and heads backstage as Reigns and Joe are laid out in the ring. Referees check on Joe and Braun in the ring.

– We see Renee Young backstage setting up for an interview with Kurt Angle and Jason Jordan on the WWE Network as RAW goes off the air.

Justin Roberts Reveals if Daniel Bryan Really Was Choking Him During Tie Incident

Jon Fuentes
-
9

Ex-WWE ring announcer Justin Roberts recently did an interview with Cult Of Whatever to talk about his time with the company. Roberts talked about a variety of topics, however, the real eye-grabber was Roberts’ comments on whether or not he was actually being choked by Daniel Bryan with his tie during the Nexus invasion segment on Monday Night RAW years ago. Here’s what Roberts had to say about what happened:

“That was crazy, every week for years I would look around and the people around me would get beat down but they never got me. They would always get the timekeeper and I was always safe. On that night when the Nexus invaded Monday Night Raw Arn Anderson told me before hand I may not be safe and that is when we found out what was going on.

“As far as the tie is concerned it wasn’t planned like Daniel came up to me and said he was going to get a tie and do this to me. He had a general idea of what was going to happen and Daniel Bryan is very smart, he is great at what he does and when he saw my laying there with my shirt off and tie around my neck instinct just took over and he saw an opportunity to get the job done which he was supposed to get done. They were told to go out there and cause havoc, nobody said don’t do this or don’t do that, they were told to make an impact.

“He really did strangle me and people still to this day ask me if I was acting and I wasn’t acting, I was legitimately getting choked. I tried to get my finger in-between me neck and the tie but I just couldn’t get it to go in, I was choked for a short amount of time but I was fine and when I got to the back everybody was happy with the way the segment went. Vince was happy, I was happy, Nexus were happy, the fallout came afterwards when one of the sponsors wasn’t pleased.”

You can read Roberts’ full interview with Cult Of Whatever by clicking this link here.

Quote: I Think All The Guys Are Jealous of Roman Reigns

Jon Fuentes
-
13

It’s no secret that former Shield member Roman Reigns is one of the most hated Superstars on the WWE’s roster right now, but that doesn’t change the fact that “The Big Dog” has had a tremendous amount of success during his time with the company – something former RAW Women’s Champion Sasha Banks is able to recognize.

Banks recently did a few media appearances in Australia and found herself visiting the Victoria Zoo during one of them. During her visit, “The Boss” was asked to name who she believes was the best male wrestler on the roster. Banks broke the rules a bit and named three, however, she placed Roman Reigns at the top of her list and claimed that ‘all the guys are jealous of him’:

“I love Roman Reigns. Whether you guys love him, boo him, hate him – I think all the guys are jealous of him. He is an incredible athlete. He’s one to watch. He does it and kills it every single week”

“Of course, I have to say Cesaro. I watch his stuff and I go, “How do you think of that?” He’s so strong… Let me choose someone on SmackDown… of course, AJ Styles. He is legit phenomenal, I’m just like in awe every time I see him wrestle. He’s so sweet… he’s my Uncle Allen. What’s up, Unc? You good?”

H/T IWNerd for the transcriptions  

Kenny Omega Takes a Shot at Kota Ibushi & The WWE Cruiserweight Classic Tournament

Jon Fuentes
-
4

Last year, New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) star Kota Ibushi missed out on the G1 Climax tournament in favor of working the WWE’s inaugural Cruiserweight Classic Tournament (CWC). Ibushi had a fair amount of success in the tournament as he made it to the semi-finals before losing to eventual winner TJ Perkins.

Ibushi will be back this year to participate in the G1 Climax tournament, but it seems as though he has some beef with fellow star Kenny Omega who feels Ibushi abandoned him last year in favor of chasing his ‘pipe dream’ in the WWE:

“After you left me all alone. To fend for myself. I never stopped training. I never stopped sacrificing. I never stopped feeling the pain, I never ran away like you did. So if you can make it to the finals, that’s where I’ll be waiting. And then finally I’ll make you feel the pain, Ibushi. And I’ll show you through my actions, everything that I felt while you were away – after you threw me away – to accomplish your own dream. Your own pipe dream of becoming a world famous CWC participant.”

https://twitter.com/UnderhookDDT/status/885541019348946944

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions 

Sasha Banks Posts Cryptic Message on Social Media

Jon Fuentes
-
15

Many fans are beginning to worry about the future of “The Boss” in WWE after a recent Tumblr post she made this past weekend. Banks is arguably the biggest female fan-favorite on the WWE’s roster and has held the RAW Women’s Title multiple times since making her main roster debut, with more title reigns certainly in her future.

Despite all this, fans believe Banks’ time in the professional wrestling industry could be short lived, as she posted the following on Tumblr yesterday (Sun. July 16, 2017):

“Two more years left! New beginnings coming”

Discussion: What do you think Banks could be referring to in this post?

Kurt Angle Reveals The One Reason He Almost Never Signed With WWE

Jon Fuentes
-
1

After over a decade away from WWE, Kurt Angle has finally returned home where he belongs. The former Olympic Gold Medal winner was brought back back in April as he was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame just prior to WrestleMania 33. Soon after, Vince McMahon officially announced angle as the new General Manager of Monday Night RAW, bringing Angle back to weekly WWE programming once again.

Recently, a WWE Network special entitled WWE 24 – Kurt Angle: Homecoming revealed some of the backstory behind the former WWE Champion and Vince McMahon’s relationship, and how Angle’s entrance into the world of professional wrestling came about. Per Angle, just after his Olympic Gold Medal win in 1996 he was contacted by Vince McMahon for a possible signing. Angle initially turned the contract offer down and almost ruined his chances of ever being a WWE Superstar because he refused to lose to who he was brought up to believe were ‘fake’ wrestlers:

“In 1996, after I won the gold medal, Vince McMahon said he’d like to meet with me. He threw a contract at me right away. It was a 10-year deal. It was more money than I ever saw in my lifetime at that time. I looked at the contract and stared back at Vince and said, ‘Mr. McMahon, thank you for the offer. I hope you know I’m an Olympic gold medalist, so I could never lose.’ I didn’t hear from Vince McMahon after that. I didn’t get it. I didn’t understand what this was. As a kid, I was taught by my brothers and coaches, ‘don’t watch that stuff. It’s fake. You’re real.’ So I never did.”

After a while Angle seemed to have a change of heart and contacted then-head of WWE Talent Relations Jim Ross, who told him the contract offer from he and McMahon’s previous meeting was no longer available but he was more than welcome to come down and try out just like everyone else. Although he almost quite halfway through the first day of training, Angle impressed WWE officials so much he was offered a contract on day three of his tryout.

Despite having dropped the idea of never losing in a WWE ring, Angle still was hesitant when it came to hearing some of Vince McMahon’s ideas for his character:

“I said, ‘look, you’re this hero. At the same time, when we bring you into WWE, you’re going to be a heel, so to speak, because you’re so good. You’ve accomplished so much. You’re above the business. ‘I’m a real wrestler.'” McMahon continued, “and I said, ‘what’s going to happen is people are really going to boo the hell out of you.’ ‘Oh no, Vince, that’s not going to happen.'”

Screen Shot 2017 06 14 at 2.56.51 PM
Kurt Angle and Triple H at WWE Hall of Fame 2017 ceremony.

After hearing the negative reception Angle received from not only WWE fans around the world, but fans of his own hometown of Pittsburgh, Angle was finally able to admit McMahon knew what he was talking about:

“I doubted Vince McMahon the whole time. I doubted him from Day One. I said, ‘there’s no way in hell they’re going to boo me. There’s no way in hell they’re going to disrespect me. I’m an Olympic gold medalist. These people are going to love me.’ And he said, ‘no, they’re going to be the opposite.’ And he was right.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

Watch: Kurt Angle Arrives For Tonight’s RAW, Kevin Owens Reacts to Talking Smack Cancellation, Alexa Bliss Teases New Tag Team?

Jon Fuentes
-
1

– In the video below, check out Monday Night RAW General Manager Kurt Angle arrive for tonight’s episode of RAW in which he is set to reveal a big secret that has had WWE fans scratching their heads for the past few weeks. Angle is set to make a ‘big announcement’ alongside a loved one tonight, that could possibly taint his Hall Of Fame career:

– As we’ve previously reported, the WWE has cancelled Talking Smack as a weekly program on the WWE Network. The news has seemed to sadden a lot within the WWE Universe, however, former United States Champion Kevin Owens is not one of those sympathizers. “KO” took to Twitter to express his approval for the WWE’s move to no longer give Renee Young and SmackDown Live General Manager Daniel Bryan’s ‘nonsense’ a platform:

https://twitter.com/FightOwensFight/status/887016703485513729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iwnerd.com%2Fkevin-owens-responds-talking-smack-getting-cancelled%2F

– After a recent house show win alongside partner and friend Nia Jax, RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss took to Instagram to celebrate her and Jax’s victory. In the post “Little Miss Bliss” used the hashtag ‘#TeamRude’ making some WWE fans wonder if a tag team between the pair is on the horizon:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWoOx2jnDe4/

ROH War of the Worlds Liverpool Show to Air as PPV

Chris Stephens
-
0

Ring of Honor is off to Europe in mid-August for a 3 night tour.. The company visits London on August 18th, Liverpool on August 19th, and then Edinburgh on the 20th.

The company has just announced that the show from Liverpool on the 19th will air as a PPV on the FITE app. The main event for the show is scheduled to be Cody defending the ROH championship against SANADA from Los Ingobernables.

For those unfamiliar with the FITE app, the streaming service carries free and PPV shows from various companies around the world. ROH TV streams a new episode on FITE every Monday and also hosts their PPV shows.

Ring of Honor Press Release

ROH WAR OF THE WORLDS UK – LIVERPOOL EXCLUSIVELY  ON ROHWRESTLING.COM AND THE FITE TV DIGITAL PPV PLATFORM AUGUST 19TH

“New York, NY (July 17, 2017)? – FITE TV and Ring of Honor Wrestling announced today that, that FITE TV will be the exclusive digital PPV broadcast platform for Ring of Honor’s War of the Worlds UK – Liverpool which takes place Saturday August 19th at 1:00PM EDT live from Liverpool, England. This event will be available in the United States and Canada only on the FITE app, www.FITE.tv and on FITE through the ROHWrestling.com website at a $19.99 price point.

This marks the first time that Ring of Honor will broadcast a live event from outside of North America as a digital pay-per-view. ROH continues to bring the best wrestling on the planet to its fans and the War of the Worlds UK Tour will be no exception. Furthermore, ROH officials have chosen Liverpool to be the site of its pay-per-view with some major match announcements to come this week, including a change to the rematch between Dalton Castle and Marty Scurll. Both of these ROH stars are at the top of their game and certainly deserve their share of gold, but NJPW’s Kushida still holds the ROH World Television championship from the War of the Worlds Tour in the US. Also, former IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion and arch rival to Kushida, Hiromu Takahashi has made his claim that he should be next in line for this ROH title. Officials from both companies got together and decided that this match will be now be a 4-corner survival match for the ROH World Television Championship! Fans will not want to miss this one live or on the FITE App.

Fans can also watch the Facebook Live Pre-Show on the Ring of Honor Facebook page with special guest and FITE TV personality SoCal Val as she brings you analysis and previews of all the matchups.

“We are ecstatic that we have the opportunity to continue to work with Ring of Honor and to help make the programming available on a continued basis.  Live PPV events always bring the best out of the wrestlers and we can’t wait to see this event in-front of loyal ROH UK fans.”  said Michael Weber, COO of FITE TV.

“Anytime we can deliver more ROH to our passionate fans, it is a good thing,” said Greg Gilleland , ROH General Manager. “Along with FITE, I am very happy in being able to make this event a little more special, with a card that our fans in North America definitely won’t want to, and now don’t have to miss.”

ROH Wrestling’s weekly shows debut on FITE TV everyone Monday night at 7:00pm ET.  Make sure you tune in each week to keep up with the latest from ROH.  The FITE app can be downloaded at your Google Play or Apple app stores.”

Alberto El Patron Stripped Of WAW World Championship Owned By Paige’s Family

Eric Lynch
-
18

Alberto El Patron has been stripped of the Undisputed World Heavyweight Title In the WAW promotion, owned by Paige’s family. This is the top championship belt in the promotion, which is lead by Paige’s father Ricky Knight.

WAW issued the below statement on the World Title vacancy, which doesn’t mention the former champion Alberto by name.

“The WAW Undisputed World Heavyweight Championship has been declared vacant at last night’s Academy Show in Costessey, following a unanimous decision by the WAW Championship Committee. The WAWCC’s decision was announced by Zak Knight but no information was revealed regarding the crowning of a new champion. Since the announcement several individuals have announced their desire to compete for the title. Both European Heavyweight Champion Robin Lekime and British Heavyweight Champion Aaron Sharp have already revealed their desire to add more gold to their repertoire, as well as former World Heavyweight Champion Brad Slayer and former European Heavyweight Champion King Kendo. With four of WAW’s top competitors already eyeing up the most prestigious title will anyone else step forward in the hope of gaining public support?

A 32 man tournament has been announced to determine a new Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion over the course of the rest of 2017 with the final taking place at Epic Studios, Norwich in December. The entrants into this tournament will be deliberated by the WAWCC over the coming weeks before brackets are announced.”

The announcement comes about a week after an incident at the Orlando International Airport between Alberto and Paige made headlines all over the web. Paige’s brother Zak wrote on his Facebook that he’s worried about his sister and accused Alberto of domestic violence. Del Rio is also currently suspended indefinitely by Global Force Wrestling.

TMZ reported that there was some sort of domestic disturbance between the two at the airport. A witness claimed to Heavy.com that Paige yelled out loud that Alberto had been doing cocaine for “two days straight,” and Alberto allegedly replied that she was the one with the drugs in her bag.

GFW and Pro Wrestling NOAH Announce More Talent Exchanges

Chris Stephens
-
2

Global Force Wrestling and Pro Wrestling NOAH announced further talent exchanges between the two companies earlier today.

Moose and Eddie Edwards will be heading to Japan in October for a tour with NOAH, while GHC Jr. Heavyweight champion, Taiji Ishimori, will compete at Destination-X on August 17th.  

GFW and Pro-Wrestling NOAH Press Release

“Nashville – Global Force Wrestling (GFW), a subsidiary of Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp., announced today that it is expanding its talent exchange with Tokyo-based Pro Wrestling NOAH.

Taiji Ishimori, the three-time and reigning Global Honored Crown (GHC) Junior Heavyweight Champion from Pro Wrestling NOAH, returns to IMPACT Wrestling on Thursday, Aug. 17, to participate in Destination-X, live on Pop TV and broadcast to more than 120 countries worldwide.  Ishimori was a show-stealer in his GFW debut on July 2, at Slammiversary 15, originating from The Impact Zone on the backlot of Universal Studios Florida.

Ishimori was joined at Slammiversary by Naomichi Marufuji.

“All of us at GFW are excited to continue to grow our relationship with Pro Wrestling NOAH,” said GFW Vice President of International Relations Scott D’Amore.  “Having Ishimori back competing in the six-sided GFW ring at Destination-X shows our commitment to showcasing the very best athletes from around the world.”

There is no confirmation yet on additional Pro Wrestling NOAH talent that will be in Orlando for Destination-X and the ensuing TV tapings for IMPACT Wrestling, D’Amore said.

GFW stars also will be heading to Japan later this year to participate in Great Voyage 2017, vol. 2 from Pro Wrestling NOAH on Sunday, Oct. 1.  GFW stars Moose and Eddie Edwards will be competing in Japan.  Edwards was in Japan earlier this year, along with “Cowboy” James Storm.

“GFW is excited and honored to be part of the Great Voyage from Pro Wrestling NOAH,” D’Amore said.  “Moose and Eddie Edwards are two amazing athletes who will be great representatives for GFW and IMPACT Wrestling.

“These talent collaborations are examples of how GFW and its international promotional partners continue to work together on an unprecedented level to provide a truly global audience with the very best action in the wrestling business.”

Kurt Angle Comments On Tonight’s Big Reveal On RAW

Eric Lynch
-
29

As noted, tonight’s episode of WWE RAW from Nashville will feature the big reveal of Kurt Angle’s mystery storyline.

The RAW GM has been seen on TV with Corey Graves in recent weeks discussing a highly sensitive personal matter that Angle thinks could ruin him. Angle is bringing a loved one with him to RAW tonight to help him make the big announcement.

Angle sent out the below message on Twitter earlier today, writing that the announcement will change his “life and career” forever.

Join us tonight at 8 PM ET for live play-by-play RAW coverage and discussion.

  • What do you think the Olympic gold medalist’s announcement will be on RAW tonight? Who will be with him? Comment with your predictions!

Preview For WWE RAW (7/17): Kurt Angle’s Secret To Be Revealed

Eric Lynch
-
8

The July 17th, 2017 edition of WWE RAW airs live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN. Join us tonight at 8 PM ET for live coverage and discussion of RAW all night.

Here’s what WWE is promoting for tonight’s show on their official website:

Universal Champion Brock Lesnar’s SummerSlam challenger to be determined
With a Universal Championship opportunity on the line, Reigns vs. Joe will undoubtedly turn up the volume in this Music City melee.

Kurt Angle to expose controversy to the world
For the past several weeks, Corey Graves and Raw General Manager Kurt Angle have been secretly discussing some sensitive information that could not only threaten The Olympic Hero’s career, but might just tear his family apart. On Raw, Angle will reveal the details to the world. The Raw GM will make the revelation alongside a loved one, whose identity has yet to be disclosed. Who is Angle bringing to Raw, and what will they have to say?

Dean Ambrose to kick off Raw
One week after Dean Ambrose helped Seth Rollins turn back a 3-on-1 attack by The Miz and his Miztourage, The Lunatic Fringe will open Raw, live in Nashville, Tenn.

The Hardy Boyz gain new enemies
Seeking to make names for themselves on Raw, the returning Revival attacked The Hardy Boyz immediately after the brothers’ defeat at the hands of Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson this past Monday night. Matt & Jeff have refused to “fade away” and become “obsolete” after failing to recapture the Raw Tag Team Titles at WWE Great Balls of Fire and have said they’ll scratch and claw their way back to those championships no matter who gets in their way. Have Dash Wilder & Scott Dawson made a mistake in provoking The Hardys?

Will Bayley continue to gain momentum?
One week after Nia Jax rendered Bayley unable to compete when The Huggable One teamed with Sasha Banks against the juggernaut and Raw Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss, Bayley pinned the self-proclaimed “Goddess of WWE” in an intense rematch this past Monday night. Based on that victory, it seems Bayley is back in the fight. Is the beloved Superstar inching toward a championship opportunity after pinning the titleholder?

Big Cass has a big problem with Big Show
Following a colossal brawl, The World’s Largest Athlete told WWE.com that Cass “is on the wrong path” and that he “might have bit off more than he can chew.” What will happen if these two goliaths cross paths Monday night?

  • Comment with your predictions for tonight’s show!

Battleground Tickets Not Selling Well, Price Reduced

Chris Stephens
-
44

Tickets for the upcoming Battleground PPV at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, are reportedly not selling well. WWE sent out an email blast recently, letting fans in the area know ticket prices have been reduced.

Tickets which once cost $55 are now slashed all the way to $25. 2nd and 3rd row tickets are still available as well.

Why Isn’t Battleground Selling Well?

The famed hotbed of ECW, has been one of the hottest pro-wrestling markets in North American seemingly forever. The fans will turn on a show however, as was demonstrated by the 2015 Royal Rumble (and several other events).

WWE runs Philadelphia frequently throughout the year, but evidently there is something about this card which isn’t resonating with fans in the area.

The match lineup for the show is currently:

  • AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens – US Championship
  • Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin
  • Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch vs. Natalya vs. Tamina vs. Lana – #1 contender match
  • John Cena vs. Rusev – Flag Match
  • the Usos vs. New Day – Tag Title Match
  • Jinder Mahal vs. Randy Orton – Punjabi Prison match for the WWE championship.

Rey Mysterio Jr’s Pending Free Agency, WWE and GFW Interested

Chris Stephens
-
20

According to a report from Sports Illustrated, both WWE and GFW are making a play to sign soon-to-be-free agent Rey Mysterio Jr.

Mysterio is signed to Lucha Underground up until Season 3 finishes airing in September. He also has a “First Look Contract” with the El Rey Network which is believed to expire this summer.

He will then have to complete a 90-day no compete clause before  performing for another promotion.

Could Rey Mysterio Be Back in WWE?

There is still no word given on when Lucha Underground plans to shoot a 4th season, leaving many on their roster frustrated. Should LU announce continued funding and future taping dates soon, the promotion might still be in a position to re-sign Mysterio.

GFW is said to really want Mysterio, especially considering what has been going on with the company’s current top star, Alberto El Patron, at the moment.

Another factor which could impact where Mysterio lands, is his son Dominic’s future training. Dominic has begun training to be a pro-wrestler, and a developmental deal for him could be part of Mysterio’s contract negotiations with WWE.

Earl Hebner Comments on When He Found Out About the Montreal Screwjob

Chris Stephens
-
10

Famed referee Earl Hebner sat down with ring announcer David Penzer recently, for Penzer’s “Sitting Ringside” podcast. Hebner spoke on the Montreal Screwjob, and when he found out about it, and what working for WWE was like.

Earl Hebner Interview Highlights

When he found out about what his role would be in the finish to the Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels Match at Survivor Series:

“I found out walking to the gorilla position, I was pulled to the side and was told Vince wants you to do this, and this and this. I thought, Oh my God!'”

His thoughts on what it was like working in WWF/WWE:

“There was so much stress down there (WWE), it was miserable it was like you were in prison.”

The “Twin Referees” Storyline Screwjob of Hulk Hogan in 1988:

“I did count 1,2,3, with Hogan’s shoulders about four feet off the mat, and then my brother came down and there was two of us! We had our little battle royal there and then Hogan figured out that I was the evil one, so he picks me up and tosses me out of the ring over Andre and Virgil. It hurt bad. I injured my rotator cuff, I couldn’t move my arm. That was my first day there. After that night, I had to spend six to eight weeks in rehab.”

Sexy Star Resigns with AAA/LU, Taya Threatens to Leave

Chris Stephens
-
6

There is some drama going on in AAA at the moment. The company has re-signed popular women’s wrestler, Sexy Star, which has rubbed some in the company the wrong way.

The 34-year old whose real name is Dulce Maria García Rivas, is a big draw in Mexico, but has been the subject of criticism amongst some of her colleagues for being difficult to work with. Evidently her signing represents the end of the line for Taya, who had been the company’s top women’s wrestlers since 2014.

https://twitter.com/TheTayaValkyrie/status/886764300253118464

Taya and Sexy Star

Last year, Sexy Star left lucha libra to begin a career as a professional boxer. She won her debut fight back in April.

On July 1st, AAA talent director, Vampiro, stripped Taya of the Reina de Reinas title, stating she had used an illegal choke in her last title victory and hadn’t defended the title in months. This was met with a fair amount of surprise as Taya had been the perennial champion for going on 3 years (she had recently lost and regained the title).

Yesterday Sexy Star beat 5 other performers in Monterey to win the vacated title. After finding out, Taya let it be known she no longer plans to wrestle for AAA.

Sexy Star’s resigning with AAA, also opens the door for her return to Lucha Underground for a potential season 4. Currently Sexy Star and Taya are building up a rivalry on the show, which may have strengthened the animosity between the two in real life, however that is just speculation.

https://twitter.com/TheTayaValkyrie/status/886766012292517889

Dana Warrior Responds To Ryback, Perry Saturn In New Wrestling Documentary

Robert Lentini
-
29

Perry Saturn to be featured in new documentary

INFLUX Pictures is working on a documentary featuring Perry Saturn and the highs and lows of the wrestling business. Below are some photos of Saturn in the documentary.

https://www.facebook.com/INFLUXPicturesllc/posts/506097533061475#

Dana Warrior responds to Ryback

Ryback recently claimed on his podcast that a match between himself and the Ultimate Warrior was scheduled for WrestleMania XXX. Ryback stated that it was WWE’s Mark Carrano that showed him the idea for the card and that he was skeptical of it because he didn’t know what kind of condition Warrior would be in. He are Ryback’s comments on his Conversations With The Big Guy podcast:

“Mark Carrano actually had showed me the WrestleMania card early. They kind of have an idea of what they want to do, obviously, ahead of time, and they had on it Ryback versus Ultimate Warrior. And I just said, ‘cool.’ But, in my head, at the time, it was during my heel deal, that first one, where it probably wasn’t gonna be a favorable position for me as far as all that. But I was excited, because I figured it was his one last moment in WWE. So, I thought it would be really cool. I didn’t think I would necessarily be the right guy for that, because I didn’t know anything… I didn’t know what kind of shape he was in, if he could wrestle or not, but I 100 percent would have done it, because I did everything that they asked me there.”

Dana Warrior denied Ryback’s claims in the following tweet:

Ryback then responded and tweeted the timestamp of the podcast when he discussed a potential match with Ultimate Warrior:

Dana responded with the following tweet:

Paige & Alberto El Patron Attend Soccer Game Together (Video), Talking Smack Petition

Robert Lentini
-
12

Alberto El Patron and Paige attend soccer game together

A PWInsider reader sent them a video of Paige and GFW Champion Alberto El Patron attending a soccer game today in San Antonio, Texas. This is the couple’s first appearance in public since their incident at an airport in Orlando on July 9th. Patron is still under investigation for the incident and remains suspended from GFW.

Max Landis creates petition to bring “Talking Smack” back to the WWE Network as a weekly show

Filmmaker Max Landis, writer and director of “Wrestling Isn’t Wrestling”, created a petition to bring “Talking Smack” back to the WWE Network on a weekly basis. As of now, the petition has 12,126 signatures with a 15,000 signature goal. Below is Landis’ statement on the petition and you can sign it by clicking here.

“Talking Smack,” the Smackdown Post show, was announced as cancelled today.  This is a huge loss for the WWE.

“Talking Smack” was an innovative, engaging, compelling and reliably hilariously funny closer look at the characters and world of the WWE.  It drove deeper interest in characters who often didn’t get time to speak on television, and was home to some of the best segments in recent history.

The informal style, spearheaded by the grounded, friendly conversational performance of host Renee Young and bolstered by Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon, who act like real people, shows a side of the wild storylines that makes even the most silly and ridiculous situation on Smackdown suddenly seem remarkably real, fun, and complex.

Shows like “Talking Smack,” that broaden the world of the WWE Universe and give a looser-structured but tighter-focused look at the Superstars within it, are integral to growing interest in story-lines and characters; they are not just frosting.  I know this, because due to Talking Smack, I am a fan with a more vested and profound appreciation for Erick Rowan, The Usos, Alexa Bliss, and even more prominent characters like AJ Styles.

WWE prides itself on hearing the voice of the WWE Universe, so let’s speak up.  Sign this petition, and let’s make it clear that WE, the WWE Universe, the $9.99ers and the crowds on Youtube who make WWE’s channel the second most watched content IN THE WORLD, want “Talking Smack” BACK.

Stand up and shout loud for an uncommon, and uncommonly smart show.

Kurt Angle Wants CM Punk To Return To Wrestling, Randy Orton Update, Sasha Banks Pokes Fun At Alexa Bliss

Robert Lentini
-
21

Kurt Angle on CM Punk returning to wrestling in the future

RAW GM Kurt Angle answered a few questions on his Facebook page a couple of days ago. A fan asked Angle about CM Punk’s MMA future and a possible return to professional wrestling. Angle responded with the following:

“I hope he comes back. I think his MMA career is over. He needs to go back to what he does best!”

Randy Orton returning to SmackDown on Tuesday

WWE Superstar Randy Orton has not been seen on SmackDown since July 4th because he was filming the new WWE Studios movie “Changeland”. Orton will make his return to SmackDown this week in the final episode before WWE Battleground. Orton will face Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship in a Punjabi Prison match at the PPV.

Sasha Banks pokes fun at Alexa Bliss on Instagram

WWE posted a photo of Alexa Bliss on their Instagram account earlier today that stated that “#LittleMissBliss always has something up her sleeve”. Sasha Banks left this comment on the photo, “Yeah Paige’s jacket pfpfpfp”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWncxEYAV2g/

sasha banks comment

News On Some WWE Officials Unhappy With Mae Young Classic, Beth Phoenix On Promo Omission

Robert Lentini
-
36

Some WWE officials were unhappy with the first two nights of the Mae Young Classic 

According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there were some WWE officials that weren’t happy with the first two fights of the Mae Young Classic. The first two nights of the 32 competitor tournament concluded on Friday night. The latest edition of the newsletter noted that some people in WWE were unhappy with the tournament because of the way some of the women looked. There are those in WWE “who believe that WWE women all have to be hot” and felt that many of the women in the tournament weren’t good looking enough for WWE’s standards. It seems that there are some officials in WWE that are stuck in the past and are still incapable of accepting female Superstars as equal to their male counterparts.

Beth Phoenix comments on not being included in the promo for the tournament

WWE aired a video package for the tournament and showed several Superstars that held gold in WWE. The video showed Mae Young, Trish Stratus, Sensational Sherri, Lita, Jacqueline and more. A fan pointed out on Twitter that WWE Hall of Famer Beth Phoenix was not included in the video. Beth Phoenix responded to the fan with the following tweet:

Kevin Owens Corrects Fan (Video), Jeff Hardy Brings Back Old Look (Photo), Superstar Ink

Robert Lentini
-
14

Kevin Owens responds to fan at WWE Live event

A fan recently taunted Kevin Owens at a WWE Live event as he made his way to the ring and asked Owens “where his belt was?”. Owens lost his United States Championship at a WWE Live event at Madison Square Garden a little over a week ago. Owens responded to the fan and stated “it is not a belt, it’s a title dumbass”. The use of the term “belt” is banned in WWE.

Jeff Hardy brings back an old look

Since returning to WWE at WrestleMania 33, Jeff Hardy hasn’t worn face paint. During a recent WWE Live event in Virginia, Hardy came down to the ring with face paint on.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWjFsOggKZx/

Corey Graves discusses working security for Deftones

WWE uploaded a clip from the most recent episode of Superstar Ink of Corey Graves discussing the time he worked security for a Deftones performance. Graves and his friend were invited to party with the Deftones after the concert but they couldn’t go because his friend had to work the next morning.

Sasha Banks On Women’s Division, Big E Responds To Fan’s Tattoo, Dusty Rhodes Tribute (Video)

Robert Lentini
-
5

Big E responds to fan’s ridiculous tattoo

A fan sent in a photo of his friend’s ridiculous New Day/unicorn themed tattoo on his leg. Big E responded and simply asked why the friend would let this happen.

Sasha Banks on the evolution of the women’s division in WWE

Sasha Banks spoke with Stuff while WWE was touring in New Zealand recently. Banks discussed the women’s division and how it has evolved over the past five years. Here are Banks’ comments:

“Five years ago we weren’t given this opportunity that we’re having now to be equal to the men. Just two years ago we were considered Divas, that was our brand name, and we had a championship that was in the shape of a butterfly. I was like ‘this is not us, we’re not divas, we’re superstars’. And so two years ago we changed that.

We have all different shapes, sizes, all different looks, and it’s so beautiful to see, because legit five years ago it was all models. Now, the sky’s the limit.”

New Canvas 2 Canvas with Dusty Rhodes

Dusty Rhodes was the subject for this week’s episode of Canvas 2 Canvas. WWE artist Rob Schamberger discussed Rhodes’ legacy while creating the artwork. Dusty Rhodes will be inducted into the 2017 National Wrestling Hall of Fame on July 20-22 and this week’s episode was done as a tribute to him.

Dean Ambrose To Kick Off Tomorrow Night’s WWE RAW, Top 10 Superstar Reactions (Video)

Robert Lentini
-
11

Dean Ambrose to kick off WWE RAW

WWE has announced that Dean Ambrose will open tomorrow night’s episode of WWE RAW. Ambrose has been locked in a feud with The Miz for some time now, but Seth Rollins has now been introduced to the storyline. During “The Mizzies” on this past week’s episode of RAW, The Miz called Rollins a fraud for failing to defeat Bray Wyatt even though he said he could. Rollins then once again lost to Wyatt in RAW’s main event and was then surrounding by The Miztourage (The Miz, Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas). Dean Ambrose came down to the ring to save his former teammate in The Shield from the attack. Rollins helped out Ambrose earlier in the night after The Miztourage attacked him.

WWE posted the following preview about Ambrose kicking off tomorrow night’s RAW:

“One week after Dean Ambrose helped Seth Rollins turn back a 3-on-1 attack by The Miz and his Miztourage, The Lunatic Fringe will open Raw, live in Nashville, Tenn.

Despite having mutual nemeses in The A-Lister and his “co-stars,” a distrustful Ambrose made it clear to The Kingslayer last Monday night that they’re far from friends and that he hasn’t forgotten or forgiven Rollins for what he did to dismantle The Shield back in 2014. What will Ambrose get off his chest when Raw goes live at 8/7 C on USA Network, and how will Rollins — and The Miz — respond?”

Top 10 wildest Superstar facial reactions

WWE has posted a new list of Superstars reacting in the ring. The list includes The Undertaker and Brock Lesnar sharing a laugh at SummerSlam, Vince McMahon reacting to Shane McMahon showing up on WCW Nitro and more. You can check out the entire list in the video below.

WWE Cancelling Talking Smack Is A Mistake (Editorial)

Robert Lentini
-
17

The cancellation of Talking Smack represents everything that is wrong with WWE’s product right now. Talking Smack was a weekly show hosted by Renee Young and SmackDown GM Daniel Bryan. It was essentially WWE’s version of a post-game show but with a twist. The show sometimes would feature an attack or altercation between WWE Superstars. I thought the show was much more effective when it aired immediately following SmackDown. Unfortunately, it was bumped back an hour and 205 Live is now aired directly after SmackDown. It has now been reported that Vince McMahon is unhappy with the product and doesn’t believe it is in the company’s best interest to continue to produce it on a weekly basis. Apparently, McMahon also wants to phase out Talking Smack completely in the near future.

I really enjoyed Talking Smack. I thought it was the only place, other than podcasts not affiliated with WWE, where Superstars could be themselves. They could say things off the top of their heads, instead of relying on a script that 40,000 writers created for them. They could speak naturally and avoid the awkward pause we see so much on WWE television when a Superstar tries to remember their lines. They could actually speak words they use in real life, instead of desperately trying to make their way through a corny written promo carefully sculpted by folks that have bored the WWE Universe to tears for years now.

Take a look at a Superstar like Baron Corbin. He clearly possesses talent and looks like a badass. There is absolutely no reason that he shouldn’t be a star in WWE and should have the ability to bring in money just based on his look alone. Corbin is also a good performer in the ring and his End of Days finisher is just awesome. His only issue right now on the main roster is promos. He speaks like a robot and half the time he is rocking back and forth while cutting a promo. He doesn’t look comfortable with the scripted words he is given. However, when you watched Corbin on Talking Smack he came off way better than he does on SmackDown every week. WWE is obviously banking on Corbin being a star as he is currently holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. I could be wrong, but I don’t think having Corbin utter phrases like “sayonara Nakamura” like he did on this past week’s SmackDown, is going to help him all that much in the future.

If you convince a friend that hasn’t watched wrestling for some time to check out the current product, one of the first things they will notice is the poor promos. Obviously the PG rating limits what Superstars can say, but it shouldn’t prevent them from being entertaining. It is hard to be entertaining when you are performing a promo that is not in your own words and is something you do not believe in. Every week I see Superstars just trying to get through a promo. I don’t see intensity or passion for the material, I just see employees trying not to screw up what their bosses have given to them. The Miz is now hosting fake award shows and beating up random people in bear costumes. I’ll take The Miz flipping out on Talking Smack over that any day of the week.

1...1,8781,8791,880...3,403Page 1,879 of 3,403