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WWE Extreme Rules: Main Event & 4 Title Matches Confirmed

Scott Lazara
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10

Following Monday’s RAW, the card for WWE’s upcoming Extreme Rules pay-per-view is taking shape. As of this writing, there are now five confirmed matches for the show:

– Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, Finn Balor, Samoa Joe and Bray Wyatt battle in a Fatal 5 Way to determine the new #1 contender to WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar

– RAW Tag Team Champions The Hardys defend against Cesaro and Sheamus

– RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss defends against Bayley in a “Kendo Stick On A Pole” match

– Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose defends against The Miz and can lose the title on a count-out

– Cruiserweight Champion Neville gives one more shot to Austin Aries.

WWE Extreme Rules takes place on Sunday, June 4th from Baltimore, MD. As always, join us here for our live PPV results and discussion.

NJPW Best of the Super Juniors Day 1 to be shown FREE on NJPWWorld.com

Jake Skudder
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1

 

New Japan has announced that Day 1 of this year’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament will be airing live and for FREE on their NJPWworld.com streaming service.

The Best of the Super Juniors (also known as BOSJ) is essentially the Junior Heavyweight version of the G1 Climax tournament that takes place in July. Competitors are split into two Blocks and must compete with every wrestler in their block round robin style. Points are awarded for victories and the eventual winners of the two groups face off in a final match to determine the winner.

Here are the announced matches for Day 1 of the tournament:

May 17 (Live on NJPW World @ 2:30am PDT / 5:30am EDT / 10:30am BST / 6:30pm JST)

  • A-Block: Jushin Thunder Liger vs. TAKA Michinoku
  • B-Block: Tiger Mask IV vs. Volador Jr.
  • A-Block: Ricochet vs. Taichi
  • B-Block: ACH vs. BUSHI
  • B-Block: KUSHIDA vs. El Desperado
  • A-Block: Will Ospreay vs. Marty Scurll
  • B-Block: Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Yoshinobu Kanemaru
  • A-Block: Hiromu Takahashi vs. Dragon Lee

For more information on how to watch the tournament please check out the tweet below from the English language NJPW Twitter account.

WWE RAW Recap & Reaction (5/15)

Robert Lentini
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15

RAW GM Kurt Angle kicked off this week’s episode of RAW and was greeted by cheers and “you suck!” chants from the crowd. Angle stated that Strowman underwent surgery and may be out of action for up to six months. Angle announced an Extreme Rules Fatal 5-Way match at Extreme Rules to determine the #1 contender for the Universal Championship. It will be Seth Rollins vs Samoa Joe vs Finn Balor vs Bray Wyatt vs Roman Reigns at Extreme Rules.

Angle was about to leave the ring but was interrupted by Roman Reigns. Reigns got his usual reaction as he made his way down the entrance ramp. Reigns was still selling his shoulder injury from last months attack by Braun Strowman. Reigns confronted Angle in the ring and said that he should be the #1 contender. Reigns called RAW “his yard” and bragged about defeating The Undertaker at Wrestlemania and taking Strowman out.

Finn Balor joined the party. Balor boasted about defeating Roman Reigns on his way to becoming the first Universal Champion. Reigns told Balor that he doesn’t have the killer instinct to beat Brock Lesnar. Samoa Joe came down to the ring and bragged about applying the Coquina Clutch on Seth Rollins and knocking him out. Joe claimed that he was going to win the Fatal 5-Way and go to face Brock Lesnar. Bray Wyatt then appeared in the middle of the ring before the lights went out. Seth Rollins came down to the ring and attacked Joe.

A brawl then broke out and Rollins took out Joe’s knee. Bray Wyatt then knocked Rollins out of the ring. Reigns hit Wyatt with a Superman Punch and knocked him out of the ring. Balor then hit a Dropkick on Rollins and Wyatt outside the ring. Balor then hit Reigns with a Slingblade and knocked Roman out of the ring. The segment ended with Balor flipping onto Rollins and Reigns and then standing tall in the ring.

Reaction: Extreme Rules already has one hell of a main-event. Braun Strowman’s injury came at the worst possible time for him, as he was about to go into the biggest feud of his life with Brock Lesnar. If I had to pick now, I’d say either Balor or Roman Reigns will win the Fatal 5-Way at Extreme Rules.

Kurt Angle made two matches backstage. Seth Rollins will face Bray Wyatt for the first time ever tonight and Roman Reigns will face Finn Balor. It was also announced that The Hardys will defend the RAW Tag Team Championships against Sheamus & Cesaro at Extreme Rules.

Jeff Hardy vs Sheamus

Sheamus controlled the match early and sent Jeff Hardy into the barricade outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. The action returned to the ring and Sheamus planted Hardy with a Powerslam for a two count. Jeff Hardy took control of the match and Cesaro hopped up on the ring apron but Matt Hardy knocked him off. Sheamus went for a Brogue Kick but Jeff got out of the way and Sheamus almost hit Matt. Jeff then hit the Twist of Fate and followed it up with a Swanton Bomb for the victory.

Winner: Jeff Hardy

Reaction: The Hardys and Sheamus & Cesaro work well together. I’m looking forward to seeing them have another match for the tag titles at Extreme Rules.

Sasha Banks vs Alicia Fox

Sasha Banks controlled the match early and connected with Double Knees. Fox connected with a scissors kick for the victory. After the match, Fox celebrated with Noam Dar.

Winner: Alicia Fox

Reaction: I didn’t see this one coming. I feel like Sasha Banks would have benefited from the Superstar Shake-Up. I’ve been waiting for WWE to turn her heel and I don’t understand why that hasn’t happened yet.

Intercontinental Championship Match: Dean Ambrose (c) vs The Miz

Miz went for the Skull Crushing Finale early but Ambrose was able to block it. Ambrose then connected with a Swinging Neckbreaker. Ambrose connected with a Suicide Dive on The Miz who was outside the ring. RAW went to a commercial break with Ambrose in control and the crowd behind him.

When RAW returned from the break, The Miz was in control. Miz slammed Ambrose into the steel steps during the commercial break. Ambrose fought back and went for the Dirty Deeds but Miz blocked it. The match went back and forth for a minute and Miz once again went for a Skull Crushing Finale but couldn’t connect. Ambrose climbed to the top rope but Maryse stood in front of Miz. Ambrose jumped anyway and Maryse got out of the way. Ambrose struck Miz and he fell over the barricade. Back in the ring, Miz went for a low blow but Ambrose blocked it. Dean then hit a low blow of his own and was disqualified.

Winner via DQ: The Miz

Reaction: This match was decent. I was hoping that tonight would be the end of this feud so that Ambrose and Miz could move onto something new. That will not be the case as it was announced later in the show that Ambrose will once again defend his IC Title against Miz at Extreme Rules.

Alexa Bliss came down to the ring and started insulting the crowd. Alexa bragged about being the only Superstar to become the RAW and SmackDown Women’s Champion. Alexa again referred to herself as a goddess and was interrupted by Bayley. Bayley announced that she has a rematch for the RAW Women’s Championship at Extreme Rules. Bliss told Bayley to leave the titles to the adults and to go sit at the kid’s table. Bayley attacked Bliss and knocked her outside the ring. Bliss grabbed a kendo stick from under the ring and struck Bayley in the back. Alexa then stood over Bayley and taunted her as the segment ended.

Reaction: I’m looking forward to see what stipulation is added to this match at Extreme Rules. On paper, the Extreme Rules card looks good. My only issue with it so far is that it is a lot of the matches we have already seen before. Alexa Bliss will face Bayley again. Neville will face Austin Aries again. The Hardys will face Sheamus & Cesaro again. Dean Ambrose will once again face The Miz. I guess a bunch of stipulations can help make this card more interesting.

RAW GM Kurt Angle was confronted by The Miz and Maryse backstage. The Miz demanded a rematch for the title since Ambrose hit him with a low blow earlier in the night. Angle gave him the rematch at Extreme Rules. The Miz then said that the title should be able to change hands if the match ends with Ambrose getting disqualified. Angle reluctantly agreed and then told Miz to watch his tone next time he tries to speak to him. Maryse then yelled at Angle in French but was interrupted by The Drifter strumming his acoustic guitar nearby.

Jack Gallagher & Austin Aries vs Neville & TJP

Neville immediately tagged in Perkins to avoid Austin Aries in the ring. The match went back and forth for several minutes. Neville distracted the referee as Perkins beatdown Aries outside the ring. TJP and Gallagher battled in the ring while Aries attacked Neville outside the ring. The match ended with TJP hitting the Detonation Kick on Gallagher for the victory.

Winners: Neville & TJP

It was announced that the match between Bayley and Alexa Bliss at Extreme Rules will be a Kendo Stick On A Pole match.

Golden Truth were shown backstage. R-Truth apologized for Goldust and said that he cost them the win in the Tag Team Turmoil Match last week on RAW. Goldust said that was nonsense and that they will begin their journey back to the top tonight in their match against Gallows & Anderson.

Finn Balor vs Roman Reigns

The match started out with Reigns and Balor trading punches in the corner. Reigns got the upper-hand and connected with a Samoan Drop. Balor connected with a series of kicks and then a chop to Reigns in the corner. Roman shook his head as if it had no effect on him and leveled Balor with a right hand. Roman charged at Balor in the corner but Finn dodged it and Reigns rammed his injured shoulder into the ring post. Reigns spilled to the floor outside the ring and Balor exited through the ropes onto the ring apron. Balor connected with a kicked to Reigns’ head and then knocked Reigns to the floor as RAW went to a commercial.

When RAW returned, Reigns slammed Balor into the ring post outside the ring. Reigns followed it up with a Drive By on the ring apron and brought Balor back to the ring. Reigns went for the pinfall but Balor kicked out at two. Reigns went for a Powerbomb but could not go through with it due to his injured shoulder. Balor hit a Slingblade and Reigns connected with a Superman Punch for a two count. Balor hit another Slingblade and made his way to the top rope. Balor took to long and Reigns knocked him to the mat. Reigns then planted Balor with a Spear for the victory.

Winner: Roman Reigns

Reaction: I enjoyed this match. It was very physical and both Superstars performed well. I also enjoyed Reigns’ work to kick off RAW during the promo. He wasn’t cracking jokes, he just got right to the point and stated that he deserved to be #1 contender.

Bray Wyatt warned Seth Rollins before their match tonight and said that he will become Universal Champion in a video promo.

Golden Truth vs Gallows & Anderson

R-Truth and Goldust came down to the ring. R-Truth was doing his typical promo and was asking the crowd “what’s up?!”. Goldust then attacked R-Truth from behind and grabbed the microphone. Goldust said “that is what’s up” and left R-Truth laying in the ring.  The crowd chanted “yes!” after Goldust attacked R-Truth.

Reaction: This was a great moment simply because it meant the end of Golden Truth.

Titus O’Neil vs Big Cass

Enzo, Cass, Apollo Crews and Titus O’Neil were in the ring. Titus mocked both Enzo and Cass. Titus then mocked Enzo’s dance routine and the crowd booed and chanted “a**hole!”. Titus O’Neil wound up wrestling in his suite and quickly lost to Big Cass. After the match, Apollo Crews kicked Enzo in the head after he tried to take a selfie while O’Neil was on the ground.

Winner: Big Cass

Bray Wyatt vs Seth Rollins

Wyatt started out the match in control and posed in the ring. Rollins battled back and sent Wyatt out of the ring. Rollins followed him and slammed him into the barricade. Rollins hopped up onto the barricade and leaped onto Wyatt but Bray caught him. Wyatt then slammed Rollins into the barricade and RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Bray Wyatt planted Rollins with a massive Superplex. The action spilled outside the ring and Rollins went for a Suicide Dive but Wyatt blocked it. Back in the ring, Rollins hit a Blockbuster for a two count. The match continued back and forth for a couple of minutes and then both Superstars battled outside the ring. Samoa Joe appeared and attacked Rollins and the match ended in a DQ.

After the match, Joe brought Rollins into the ring and continued the beatdown. Bray Wyatt then joined Samoa Joe and stomped on Rollins. Wyatt then hit the Sister Abigail on both Samoa Joe and Seth Rollins. RAW went off the air with Bray Wyatt posing in the ring.

Winner via DQ: Seth Rollins

Reaction: The main-event was decent but the ending was predictable. Samoa Joe has attacked Rollins before and will certainly attack him again. I can’t help but feeling that I’m watching the same show every week while watching RAW and SmackDown. There aren’t any real great storylines here, it is just Superstars fighting. I thought WWE would capitalize more on the Rollins and Joe feud by focusing more on Joe injuring Rollins. The feud doesn’t feel personal enough. I enjoyed the match between Rollins and Joe last week on RAW, but the feud doesn’t seem to be escalating. Like almost all the feuds in WWE, it is just lacking buzz. There are matches on the Extreme Rules card that I’m looking forward to, but there is nothing I’m overly excited about.

As for Bray Wyatt, I’ve lost interest in the character. Wyatt’s feud with Randy Orton left a lot to be desired and his title reign was a disappointment. Since joining RAW, Wyatt hasn’t done anything for me to get back invested in the character. It is the same exact thing. Wyatt cuts an ominous promo and fails to win matches. I don’t understand why nothing new is being tried with a character as different and charismatic as Bray Wyatt. It is frustrating to watch someone with that match talent fritter away on a weekly basis. I thought the best parts of the show were the opening promo, the match between Roman Reigns and Balor, and Goldust attacking R-Truth.

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

Bully Ray Shoots on Issues With Randy Orton, Orton’s Shots at Him, Twitter Beef

Jon Fuentes
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14

As we previously reported, WWE Champion Randy Orton and former WWE Superstar Bully Ray got into a Twitter exchange over Orton’s recent criticism of the professional wrestling indie scene. Ray took to a recent episode of Busted Open Radio to comment on the incident, and you can check out the highlights below:

Orton’s response to his #Dive photo on Twitter:

“The part about Randy Tweeting me is where things get wonky and I don’t understand. Because here’s the deal, that diatribe that you just read, somebody texted that to me about two days ago and I hadn’t read it. I did not read it on Rip Rodgers Twitter or Randy Orton’s Twitter or wherever it came from because I don’t follow either one of them. When I read that I thought it was funny, and I saw the last word and it said ‘dive.’ I was like ‘Oh I have that picture of me diving.’ I was kind of laughing saying to myself ‘I look like the Hindenburg falling.’

“I was making fun of myself, so the post that I put up there of ‘dive’ was kind of a tongue in cheek joke at myself because here I am the veteran and I’m doing a dive. I had no idea about anybody else’s stuff, but I guess it was coincidental. This had nothing to do with Rip Rodgers. As a matter of fact, if you go back a month ago you can see that me and Rip Rodgers, we actually have some really good back-and-forth on Twitter, where we basically agree almost one hundred percent of the time when it comes to wrestling and wrestling psychology, and that old school mantra. Rip Rodgers even went as far to Tweet me ‘Are you sure you’re not my son?’ That’ show much me and him are on the same page.

“So I would not even be talking about Rip Rodgers or taking a shot at him. If I was talking about him I would hit the little ‘@’ symbol so Rick knew I was talking about him. Now, Randy gets in on it. If I was referring to Randy, which I would not be doing at all, I would’ve added Randy. Because I’m a man and I will tell you if I am talking about you or taking a shot at you. So my Tweet had nothing to do with those people. But I did feel the need to fire back and I did. I’m sure you have that Tweet ready to go.”

Ray on his response back to Orton on Twitter:

“And the reason why I said Randy Orton is wrong again, is because me and Randy actually have a very long history. People may or may not know the story, and I’ll try to give you the cliff notes version of what happened – About 15 years ago there was a live event between me and D-Von and Randy Orton and Batista. It was just one of those matches that just did not go the right way. It was a snake bitten match. I wound up hurting my back, Randy wound up hurting his leg and his shoulder, Dave wound up hurting his tricep – it was just one of those bad nights. Those guys held a little bit of a grudge from that night, and it went on for a long long long time. Well fast forward 10 years later, I was back in the WWE.

“Me and Randy saw each other and within an instant, we shook hands, we hugged, sat down, talked about it, and within five minutes we had exchanged apologies. Randy said ‘Bubba I’m sorry, I was young, I was immature, I should’ve never been saying those things I said about you.’ I said ‘Randy, I’m sorry too. I was a bit of a hot head back then, I’m sorry if I yelled at you for anything.’ We totally buried the hatchet. My last year in WWE with Randy couldn’t have been any better. We exchanged funny stories, we talked, we talked about doing the super 3-D together, it was a great time. He was one of the last people I said goodbye to at WWE. We both expressed to each other how happy we were that we were able to bury the hatchet. I still consider him one of the best workers in the world, okay? So I have zero clue why he needed to take that shot at me. But you know what? It’s all fine and good because me and Randy’s paths will cross again.”

The apology Orton sent out soon after:

“Now, he mentioned ‘old timer’ in there right? So he’s probably addressing me as the old timer right? Well, he talks about the money and the 13 titles and everything like that – yeah man, I got to agree with you. Because as far as the money’s concerned, I’ve made a boatload of it Randy, just like you. So counting that money and looking at your bank statement is freaking awesome. As far as your 13 titles are concerned, man, I’m on the same page as you, because I have 24 of them. So I’m on board with you Randy, I totally get it, brother!”

If this is jealousy related due to fans being more interested in what’s happening outside WWE:

“I don’t know if jealousy is the right word. I really don’t know what the right word is. Here’s what I know, I’ve experienced both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. I’ve wrestled in front of seven people in the Polish-American club in Piscataway, and 100 thousand people at WrestleMania, I’ve done the Tokyo Dome, Madison Square Garden, I’ve main evented all over the world, I’ve been in ECW, I’ve been in Ring of Honor, TNA, Hustle, Old Japan, New Japan, you name it. I’ve seen all the different promotions, I’ve seen all the different styles, and I appreciate all them for what they’re worth. I understand when it comes to wrestling psychology, I understand what the perfect wrestling psychology is.

“But I also know that there are different genres and that most people like this new style of wrestling. People enjoy it. Just like people enjoy movies like Fast And Furious. You buy a ticket to go see Fast And Furious, just because you want to see everybody crash and burn. You’re not paying because you want to invest in the story. Some people want to invest in Sports Entertainment, and some people want to invest in an entertaining sport. And everything in between. And I think that’s what you’re getting in the world of pro wrestling right now, and I can’t understand why people are upset by 10 dives and 20 super-kicks because half of the roster right now in the WWE got their start doing that style.”

H/T to WrestlingINC for the transcribed quotes.

ROH TV Report: Bully Ray & the Briscoes Defend Titles

Chris Stephens
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0

ROH TV
airdate May 15th 2017 (Fite App)
Baltimore, MD (taped before War of the Worlds PPV)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PoAoqbUQ3k

1. Will Ferrara & Cheeseburger vs. Chris Sabin & Jonathan Gresham (Search & Destroy)

Alex Shelley cut a promo before the match, talking about how Jonathan “the Octopus” Gresham is one of the best up-and-coming wrestlers in ROH. Gresham would get the win for his team here as well, forcing Cheeseburger to tap to an octopus stretch.

After the match, there was a little teased dissension between Cheeseburger and Ferrara, as Ferrara stormed to the back without his partner.

Winners: Chris Sabin & Jonathan Gresham

  • We are shown a segment of Jay Lethal in the back being given a script for an upcoming commercial. Silas Young took offence to this and beat Lethal up, injuring his leg against a locker.

2. Bobby Fish vs. Silas Young w/Beer City Bruiser

Silas Young pulled off a big upset here, but under dubious circumstances. The Beer City Bruiser distracted the referee, and Young hit Fish with his knee brace (which he took of earlier in the match) and pinned him. We should get a rematch from this in the not-too-distant future.

Winner: Silas Young

  • Dalton Castle cut a promo backstage about how much it hurt to lose his ROH championship match to Christopher Daniels. Evidently, it reminded him of a blind date that went terribly wrong while in Dubai. He promised to come back stronger and work towards winning the title.

3. 6-Man Tag Team Championships
Bully Ray & the Briscoes (c) vs. the Rebellion (Shane Taylor, Caprice Coleman, Rhett Titus)

Commentary played up how the Briscoes used to ask their Dad to take them to the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, so they could see Bully Ray wrestle. Bully will turn on them eventually, but for right now they are a fun team.

Bully Ray got a hot tag to start the closing moments of the match. He took out everyone and got a big pop. He then tagged in Mark Briscoe who did his Redneck Kung Fu on everyone. Mark took out each member of the Rebellion with a moonsault on the floor, then Jay followed with a suicide dive….dive.

Titus blocked the Froggy-bow from Mark, then missed his own frog splash. Mark then tagged in Jay, they did the 3-D with Bully and pinned Rhett. Commentary mentioned that we never got to see Shane Taylor and Bully Ray go at it, which probably means we will eventually see just that.

Winners: Bully Ray & the Briscoes (retain championships)

After the match, the Briscoes brought out a table, and Bully powerbombed Coleman through it from the 2nd rope. Bully led the crowd in “ROH!” chants, and the 3 held up their titles to close the show.

John Cena on Having a Second Career in Film, Secret Behind His Drive, Playing a Superhero

Jon Fuentes
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7

WWE Superstar John Cena did an interview with The Toronto Sun to promote his new movie “The Wall”, which hit select theaters last week. You can check out some of the highlights from their conversation here:

So do you now have a whole second career in the movies?

“Man, that would be great if it could happen. [Laughs] I’m certainly more comfortable now with the roles I have than I was 10 years ago. Anyway, I’m glad if you think so — hopefully it means I can make some more movies!”

What’s the secret behind your drive, your motivation, your success?

“I show up on time, I try to work really, really hard, and I approach everything like it’s the first day on the job. Also, I have a saying: ‘Don’t be an A-hole’ and I’m guided by that. [Laughs]. I just try to be a nice person, treat everyone with respect, and work hard.”

You’ve described your wrestling persona as, ‘Goodie-Two-Shoes Superman’ and you’re a major role model to kids. Is that job one?

“I don’t consider that a job. I consider that a privilege, that I have a message powerful enough to get young people to listen — ‘Never give up.’ And to get them to pay attention to stuff like the impression they leave on people. And sometimes it doesn’t make me the coolest kid in school, but I’m very happy with the message I have to send. Very happy to be a role model.”

As your movie career continues, should we expect to see you in a superhero’s cape and tights one day?

“I do my cape wearing for the WWE.”

First WWE Extreme Rules PPV Match Announced

Jon Fuentes
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5

WWE has released a video in which WWE RAW Tag Team Champions Matt and Jeff Hardy announce that they will be defending their titles against No. 1-contenders Sheamus and Cesaro at the WWE Extreme Rules pay-per-view (PPV) next month.

A stipulation for the match was not mentioned directly, however, Jeff mentioned that he’d like to take on Sheamus and Cesaro in a No DQ Match. As of this writing, no other matches have been announced for the PPV. Extreme Rules goes down from the Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore, Maryland on June 4, 2017.

You can check the video out here below:

How Did John Cena & The WWE Locker Room’s React to “The Final Deletion” ?

Jon Fuentes
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8

Recently released WWE Superstar Simon Gotch was a guest on the latest episode of Journey Of A Frontman to talk about his time in the WWE prior to his release. During the interview, Gotch spoke on he and the WWE locker room’s reaction to “The Final Deletion” which Chris Jericho obtained a copy of from Matt Hardy after he did his podcast.

You can check out what Gotch had to say about he and the locker room’s (including John Cena) reaction to the segment here (quotes via WrestleZone):

“Chris Jericho had actually been given an advanced copy of it because Matt had done his podcast and he gave him a copy of it. So when we were over in Japan for a couple days, he was showing it to us. He was telling us that this video’s insane, it’s insane, it’s insane, it’s insane. So we had a viewing and Cena sees everybody laughing and asks what’s going on. And we were like, “Oh, we’re watching this Matt Hardy video.”

“And he asked how it was. I said, “Try and imagine the worst thing you’ve ever seen WWE do. Then imagine if somehow it was good.” And he looks at me for a second and he goes, “I don’t want to come in halfway. Please tell me when it is over. I would like to watch it.” So it finishes and we’re all dying laughing because it’s just the most insane thing anyone’s ever seen. I actually brought it up to Chris and found out he ended up bringing it up to Matt at Mania. If you watch the video when he lights the fire, Matt actually gets engulfed in a ball of flame for a second.

“If you watch it closely when he throws the fire down, pay attention to Matt. Don’t look at Jeff, don’t look at the fire. Look at Matt. The fire comes up and engulfs him. And he was like, “Yeah! No one noticed that! We were doing it, it took all day and we were losing the gasoline. They were like you just gotta go, just do it. And we just went and did it. It got all over me!” And so it was just one of those where it was just a complete accident, but apparently not a lot of people noticed it. I came back in later, Cena was watching the video, he looked at me and said, “You are absolutely right.””

John Cena Comments on His Simple Diet And Workout Routine

Jon Fuentes
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3

16-time WWE World Champion John Cena did an interview with Business Insider to talk about his diet and workout routine, and what “The Leader Of The Cenation” revealed was that his lifestyle is actually shockingly simple:

What’s his weekly workout routine:

“Weekly workout routine, there is no day-by-day because the travel is crazy. The days very, there’s no daily schedule.

“Four days on, three days off usually. Two days of compound strength movements, which is like, multiple joint stuff. Two days of push-pull, with the goal of being stronger every day.”

How is his daily diet:

“My daily diet – Stay away from the junk. If it breathes or if it’s green, eat it. And just overall make good decisions.”

John Morrison Opens Up on WWE Departure & His ‘Completely Unrealistic’ Expectations After

Jon Fuentes
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7

Former WWE Superstar and current Lucha Underground talent John Morrison (a.k.a Johnny Mundo) recently did an interview with Colt Cabana on The Art Of Wrestling podcast to talk about his time in the WWE. You can check out some of what he had to say here below (quotes via Wrestling Inc.):

Morrison says he wasn’t released from WWE, but just decided not to re-sign his contract:

“I wouldn’t say I quit or was released. At the end of 2011, I just didn’t resign. I let my contract run out. They offered me a couple of things. They didn’t offer me what I wanted.” Morrison continued, “I wanted to make a movie and I didn’t want to work 250 days a year.”

Being tired of not having any “creative autonomy”:

“That’s one of the reasons I left. I was tired of just kind of being on that express train, whatever you want to call it, so to speak. It just sort of shoots forward and you have no creative autonomy, no control over your time, and there’s not much time for side projects or family and friends.”

Believing he’d take a year off from wrestling to do movies after leaving WWE:

“When you leave WWE, like, when I left I was thinking, ‘maybe I’ll take, like, a year off, and in that year, I’ll probably do a Marvel movie, maybe a couple of movies. I don’t know.’ And, obviously, completely unrealistic.”

“I was thinking with the TV exposure I had with WWE, and it’s kind of hard to explain to people sometimes how many countless hours you are on television when you’ve been on the road with WWE. I was thinking that was going to open doors, get me auditions, and get me into a lot of high profile roles. The thing that I didn’t take into consideration is that acting, like wrestling, is a skill. And, as many people are fans of wrestling that are going to be excited to meet you, talk about what The Undertaker and John Cena were like, there [are] a lot of people out there who are movie producers and casting directors who are not impressed with wrestling on your resume.”

Gail Kim Talks Which Female She Thinks Is The Best In The Industry Today

Jon Fuentes
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5

Six-time TNA Knockouts Champion and former WWE Women’s Champion Gail Kim recently spoke to Busted Open Radio with Bully Ray and Dave LaGreca to discuss her time in the industry of professional wrestling. You can check out some of what Kim had to say in the highlights below (quotes via Wrestling Inc.):

Who she believes is the best female competitor in pro wrestling today:

“Charlotte Flair definitely. I don’t watch a lot of wrestling right now because number one there’s an overabundance of it, I can’t keep up. I pretty much keep track of all wrestling through social media, which has been great, and so I watch bits and pieces. If I talk about people having a great match then I have to go watch it. That started happening when the NXT girls were doing their thing, you know The Four Horsewomen, and I remember watching a four way with those girls and thinking ‘Who stands out to me?’ And Charlotte actually didn’t stand out to me back then.

“I thought she was solid, I thought she was athletic, and then the way that she’s progressed over the years just in her confidence, her year, everything is just now the complete package. And mind you, since we’re in the business we hear about people and their work ethic, their personality, whether they’re well liked or respected, and that usually factors into everything. And Charlotte, everyone will tell me she’s the hardest worker. And I can respect that. I met her for the first time maybe two months ago, so sweet, really great girl. I love that she has hard shoes to fill. The people that come from, especially successful, second-generation talent, it’s just hard to fill those shoes of their fathers or mothers. She has done an awesome job. That would be a dream match for me as well.”

If she were to wrestle Charlotte today, would it be her best match of her career:

“It could be, yeah. It definitely has the potential to be. I’m not gonna like, I’m a little old. There are some girls that I would love to work with up there and Charlotte is definitely one of the. But I don’t know if that’s a possibility at this point. Where I am and where she is, so that’s too bad. I would love for that to happen, I think that’d be great. Her Figure Four, my Figure Four in the post. Who knows who’d win?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOVBjLeOnNA&t=24s

What’s next for her in her career:

“My ultimate goal is always to make magic. I’m not retired, everyone always thinks I’m retired, I was injured. But hey, I’m 40-years-old, I don’t wanna be decrepit, I don’t want the fans to think of me in any way of being slowed down, which I’m not. That’s why I’ve taken my time coming back. I’m sure at some point I’ll retire but I don’t know when that is. Then, I’m already at the point where I’m helping the girls and I feel that’ll be my natural transition. I don’t know, we’ll see. I’ve always been that spontaneous, go with the flow, I don’t turn any great opportunities down whether it’s in our out of wrestling. I’m an opportunity grabber.”

Would she ever return to WWE:

“I will say never say never. Number two, my loyalty is always with Impact Wrestling to tell you the truth. But never say never, and if that was the case, if I ever had to or did go back and get that opportunity, I would be myself. Because at this point you have nothing to lose, it’s like whatever. If you can’t accept me for who I am, f*ck it.”

You can listen to Kim’s full interview on Busted Open Radio here.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (5/15)

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The May 15th, 2017 episode of WWE RAW aired live on the USA Network from the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

– RAW GM Kurt Angle is out to the ring first to open up tonight’s show. The Olympic Gold Medalist announces Braun Strowman’s injury, and says there will be a Fatal Five-Way match at Extreme Rules to determine the new #1 contender for Brock Lesnar’s Universal Title. The competitors will be Seth Rollins, Samoa Joe, Finn Balor, Bray Wyatt and Roman Reigns. Angle is interrupted by Reigns, who comes out to the ring and tells Kurt they don’t need a Fatal Five-Way match because he’s the #1 contender. Finn Balor interrupts next and says he’s the rightful #1 contender because he never lost the Universal Title belt to begin with. Reigns tells Balor he lacks the killer instinct to beat Lesnar, and Balor reminds Reigns that he beat Reigns before. Samoa Joe is out to the ring to interrupt next, then Wyatt and Rollins follow. Rollins says he’s here to fight Joe tonight and he runs towards the ring. Joe meets Rollins at ringside and they brawl around the ramp. All of the men in the ring (aside from Angle) start brawling as all Hell breaks loose. Joe retreats up the ramp and Wyatt lays out Rollins from behind. Reigns hits a Superman punch on Wyatt that sends him outside. Balor hits a running dropkick on both Wyatt and Rollins at ringside, then he slides in the ring and hits the Sling Blade on Reigns. Reigns rolls outside and Balor hits a suicide dive on Reigns, then rolls back in the ring to celebrate.

– RAW Tag Team Champions Matt & Jeff Hardy are backstage preparing to come out to the ring.

– Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns and Finn Balor are arguing backstage about who has the best shot at beating Lesnar. Kurt Angle runs in and tells them to take out their aggression in the ring. Angle books Rollins in a match against Wyatt tonight, then books Reigns and Balor in a match against each other.

– Jeff Hardy def. Sheamus: Hardy jump starts things and pummels on Sheamus in the corner. Sheamus misses a big boot and Hardy throws him outside. Hardy goes for a suicide plancha but Sheamus grabs Hardy in mid-air and throws him into the fan barricade. Sheamus takes things back in the ring and hits a spinning powerslam for a two count. Jeff comes back with some kicks and an inverted atomic drop. Jeff attempts a Twist of Fate but Sheamus fights out and hits a knee to the face for another two count. Sheamus comes off the top rope but Jeff catches him with a neckbreaker in mid-air for a two count. Sheamus gets on the apron so Matt shoves him off. Sheamus then kicks Matt off the apron, and Sheamus turns around into a Twist of Fate from Jeff. Jeff follows up with the Swanton Bomb for the win.

– Alicia Fox def. Sasha Banks: Sasha hits a spinning headscissor takedown early on. She follows up with a double knee strike in the corner, but Alica comes back with an elbow and a sunset flip for a two count. Alicia throws Sasha outside then takes her back in. Sasha goes for a small package pin as soon as they get back in the ring, but Alica gets out. Alicia follows up with a leg drop for the win. She celebrates with Noam Dar after the match.

– The Miz def. Dean Ambrose (c) via DQ: Ambrose’s Intercontinental Championship is on the line in this one. Ambrose starts things off in control and sends The Miz rolling out to ringside early on. Back in the ring, the Miz comes back with a series of kicks on Ambrose, but Ambrose throws him back outside and this time hits a suicide dive on him. Back in the ring. Ambrose hits a flying elbow for a two count. The Miz comes back shortly after with a Skull Crushing Finale for a near-fall. Ambrose dumps Miz outside and follows up with a flying elbow on him. Miz attempts a low blow, but Ambrose blocks him and delivers one of his own. The referee saw Ambrose’s low blow, so the ref DQ’s him and the IC Title belt doesn’t change hands.

– Finn Balor does a brief backstage interview where he says WWE may be Roman Reigns’ yard, but it’s Balor’s universe.

– Alexa Bliss comes out to the ring and cuts a heel promo on the New Jersey crowd and Bayley. Bayley comes out to interrupt which leads to a brawl. Alexa ends things when she grabs a kendo stick from under the ring and nails Bayley.

– The Miz approaches Kurt Angle backstage and demands a match with Ambrose where the title can still change in the event of a DQ. Angle and Maryse get into a war of words in French.

– Neville & TJ Perkins def. Austin Aries & Jack Gallagher: Neville and Perkins use frequent tags and control the opening moments of this one against Aries. Gallagher gets the tag and works on TJ with kicks. Aries and Neville hit the ring and brawl all the way to the outside while Gallagher and Perkins are still the legal men. TJ goes for a Detonation Kick but Gallagher escapes and hits a headbutt. Neville grabs Gallagher’s leg from the floor, which leads to TJ hitting the Detonation Kick for the win.

– Bayley is backstage being checked on by a trainer. Kurt Angle walks in and lets Bayley know “those kendo sticks are no joke.” Bayley wants her championship back, and she wants it back in an Extreme Rules match. Angle says they’ll give Alexa a taste of her own medicine in a Women’s Title match in a Kendo Stick On A Pole match at Extreme Rules.

– Roman Reigns def. Finn Balor: Reigns controls things early on but Balor is able to come back with some kicks. Balor dodges a spear attempt and Reigns crashes into the ring post and falls out to the floor. Balor follows up with a kick to the head of Reigns off the apron. Reigns comes back with a Drive By and hits a series of 10 clotheslines on Balor up against the turnbuckle back in the ring. Balor ducks a big boot from Reigns, but Reigns comes back with a sit-out powerbomb. Reigns gears up for a Superman Punch, but Balor blocks with a kick. Balor comes back with another kick and a double stomp on Reigns. Balor hits the Sling Blade, but Reigns comes back with a Superman Punch for a two count. Reigns goes for a spear but Balor blocks with a knee to the face and hits another Sling Blade. Balor hits a running dropkick then slowly makes his way to the top rope. Reigns knocks Balor down then hits a spear for the win.

– The lights go out in the arena and Bray Wyatt appears on the big screen to cut a promo on Rollins. Wyatt says Rollins is gutless and that “The Kingslayer” doesn’t have a chance against Wyatt tonight.

– Back from commercial, Rollins cuts a promo backstage in response to Wyatt. Wyatt says if anyone is going to slay “the beast” tonight, it’s him.

– R-Truth and Goldust come out to the ring to their usual “What’s Up” song. R-Truth starts to talk to the crowd, but then Goldust attacks R-Truth from behind. R-Truth looks shocked as Goldust continues to kick Truth while he’s down. There’s an audible “Thank you Goldust” chant as he continues to beat down Truth and throw him outside. Goldust throws Truth into the fan barricade then throws Truth back in the ring. Goldust crawls on the mat like he used to years ago and does his old taunt before kicking Truth in the head. Goldust gets a mic and tells truth “That’s what’s up.”

– Enzo and Cass come out to the ring to cut their usual promos, but they’re quickly interrupted by Titus and Apollo Crews. Crews mocks Enzo, and says he can’t face Cass tonight because he’s wearing an expensive suit. Cass says this match is going down anyways, and the bell rings.

– Big Cass def. Titus O’Neal: Titus starts off with kicks on Cass and he beats him down into the corner. Titus continues to beat down Cass in the corner then he takes off his belt to whip him Hogan-style. Enzo distracts Titus from the apron, which allows Cass to hit a big boot on Titus for the win after a very short match. Enzo takes a selfie in front of Titus before leaving the ring. Crews takes offense and hits Enzo with a dropkick to the head that sends Enzo rolling outside. Enzo and Cass head back up the ramp as Apollo helps up Titus in the ring.

– Neville and TJ Perkins are in the locker room discussing their Austin Aries problem. Perkins says all he does is win “like a walking festival.” Neville says Aries’ knee is hanging on by a thread, and they’re going to end Aries once and for all on 205 Live this week.

– Seth Rollins def. Bray Wyatt via DQ: Rollins starts off strong and takes Wyatt outside to throw him into the fan barricade. Back in the ring, Wyatt hits a superplex and takes control of things. Wyatt goes for a Rock Bottom but Rollins gets out and throws Wyatt back outside. Rollins goes for a suicide dive but Wyatt stops him with a right hand through the ropes. Wyatt goes for a splash in the corner but Rollins blocks it with a boot and follows up with a Blockbuster off the middle rope. Rollins throws Wyatt outside again and this time successfully hits a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Rollins hits a springboard clothesline on Wyatt for a two count. Rollins hits a kick to the head but Wyatt comes back with a lariat for a two count. Rollins comes back with some more strikes but Bray stops him with a Rock Bottom for a two count. Wyatt goes for the Sister Abigail but Rollins escapes and rolls up Wyatt for a two count. Rollins hits a superkick then a Falcon Arrow for another near fall. Wyatt rolls outside, and Rollins comes all the way off the top rope down onto Bray with a splash. Samoa Joe runs in and attacks Rollins from behind, causing the referee to call for the bell. Joe brings Rollins in the ring for a splash in the corner and a kick to the head. Joe hits a Rock Bottom next then continues stomping on Rollins. Joe and Wyatt comes face to face, and they both start stomping on Rollins together. Wyatt then grabs Joe and hits the Sister Abigail on him. Wyatt hits the Sister Abigail on Rollins next, then poses in the ring as RAW goes off the air.

Matt Riddle Announced for PROGRESS Super Strong Style 16, Full Participants Revealed

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PROGRESS has announced the final names for this year’s Super Strong Style 16 tournament. The tournament is held annually and is one of the few times that PROGRESS heavily features ‘imported’ performers from the United States, Japan and beyond. One of the biggest announcements is that PROGRESS Atlas Champion Matt Riddle will be entering the tournament.

The winner of the tournament becomes the number 1 contender to the PROGRESS Championship, likely getting their title shot at the September Super Show against Pete Dunne. The SSS16 takes place this year on May 27th, 28th and 29th.

The full field for the tournament is now as follows:

  • Matt Riddle
  • Jeff Cobb
  • Mark Andrews
  • Mark Haskins
  • WWE UK Champion Tyler Bate
  • EVOLVE Champion and NJPW star Zack Sabre Jr
  • Zack Gibson
  • Dragon Gate’s Flamita
  • Jimmy Havoc
  • Lucha Underground’s Jeff Cobb
  • Jack Sexsmith
  • Pastor William Eaver
  • Travis Banks
  • WWE UK Star Trent Seven
  • Nathan Cruz
  • ‘Flash’ Morgan Webster

Never seen a PROGRESS show before? Check out their on demand service for only $7.49 per month and get access to every Chapter show, Freedom’s Road taping and select PPV events from Canada’s SMASH Promotion.

https://twitter.com/MrLARIATO/status/864210347426820097

Braun Strowman To Miss “Up To 6 Months” Following Elbow Surgery

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Last week, Braun Strowman posted a message on Instagram confirming that he was undergoing surgery and vowed to return stronger and meaner than ever.

On Monday, WWE.com confirmed that Strowman underwent successful elbow surgery on Thursday in Birmingham, Ala. with Dr. Jeffrey Dugas. According to that report,

“During the procedure it was revealed, among his other injuries, that Strowman’s elbow had been shattered, and he is expected to miss up to six months of action as a result.”

The article states that Strowman’s injury took place last Monday night when Roman Reigns attacked him, but Strowman had been dealing with the injury for several weeks. Initial estimates had Strowman missing 1-2 months, so his actual recovery time is probably somewhere in between.

Either way, it’s a big setback for the monster, who was in the midst of the biggest push of his career and rumored to be main eventing July’s Great Balls of Fire PPV against RAW Universal champion Brock Lesnar.

New Logo For July’s WWE Great Balls of Fire PPV

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In July, the RAW brand will play host to the first-ever Great Balls of Fire pay-per-view. The event takes place on Sunday, July 9th from Dallas, Texas. On Monday, the American Airlines Center unveiled a new logo for the oddly-titled event.

This was the original logo:

Great Balls of Fire

Great Balls of Fire will see the first title defense of RAW Universal Champion Brock Lesnar, who defeated Goldberg at WrestleMania to capture the gold. Braun Strowman had been rumored for Lesnar’s opponent at ‘Great Balls’ but WWE just reported that Strowman will be out for up to 6 months after undergoing elbow surgery last week.

Finn Balor or Seth Rollins are now the most likely Superstars to receive the championship opportunity against Lesnar.

Kane Says Seth Rollins Is The ‘Second-Coming’ Of Shawn Michaels

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Kane was Edge and Christian’s latest guest on the E&C Pod of Awesomeness. The WWE Superstar turned politician spoke about a variety of WWE-related topics and his campaign to become the Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee in 2018.

One of the highlights of the interview was Kane’s praise for Seth Rollins. As you’ll recall, both Rollins and Kane were aligned with The Authority. They have also wrestled each other on numerous occasions. Kane says Rollins is one of the best performers he’s ever been in the ring with. “I am a huge Seth Rollins fan,” Kane said. “Anyone that has ever been in the ring with Seth, he really is the second-coming of Shawn Michaels… He is that good.”

Kane also had very positive things to say about Cesaro and his ability to work with anybody on any given night. “He can go out one night and have a match with me and then go out the next night and have a match with Jericho. Two completely different styles and still have the best match of the night because he is that good.”

You can listen to the full podcast below:

https://art19.com/shows/ecs-pod-of-awesomeness

Jim Ross Calling UK Championship Match at NXT Takeover: Chicago

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Jim Ross returned to WWE for the first time since 2013 at WrestleMania this year. Ross called the main event match between Roman Reigns and the Undertaker, which would turn out to be the Undertaker’s last.

Ross has also been announced as a commentator for WWE’s new UK division/program. As the voice of the UK brand, Ross will also be on hand at NXT Takeover: Chicago to call the UK Championship match.

Pete Dunne Challenges Tyler Bate

Arguably the most talked about member of WWE’s UK territory, Pete Dunne, will challenge the winner of the UK tournament, and inaugural UK champion, Tyler Bate Saturday night in Chicago.

The bout will be a rematch from the tournament finals.

Kurt Angle Q&A: Roman Reigns, Mid-Carder With Main Event Potential, Who Belongs In HOF

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WWE Hall of Famer and RAW General Manager Kurt Angle recently did a Q&A on his Facebook page. Here are the highlights of what Angle said about:

If he expects to wrestle again:

“Yes. I don’t know when, but I will wrestle again. It’s true!”

Roman Reigns’ potential:

“Yes, Roman is fine. He has a huge future too. Roman has potential to be “the face” of WWE. Let’s see how he pans out.”

His worst moment as a WWE wrestler:

“Continuously breaking my neck. 4 times in 2 1/2 years. I kept rushing back to WWE by convincing my own doctor to clear me and that I was ready to return. I wasn’t. That was tough. Kudos to WWE for not allowing that anymore. Now you have to be cleared by a WWE doctor and they are strict.”

Which mid-card Superstar could be a WWE main eventer:

“I really like Neville. He has the ability to cross over from the 205 division to the HWT division. He’s so talented as a wrestler, and his character is strong. He can speak very well and his style will mesh well with the heavyweights. Almost like Rey Mysterio was able to mesh with the big boys. Neville is very talented.”

Who he wants to see n the WWE Hall of Fame:

“Christian. Very underrated. He has consistently had the best matches, was a multi world champ and entertaining as hell. I love that guy.”

Will Ospreay Says He & Marty Scurll Will “Take It To A Whole New Stratosphere” At NJPW BOSJ 2017

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2016 winner of the Best of the Super Juniors, Will Ospreay, will face the newest member of Bullet Club, Marty Scurll, on the opening night of the 2017 tournament. Ospreay was the first UK born competitor to win the event last year, and will kickstart this year’s event on Wednesday in Tokyo. BOSJ 2017 will live stream on NJPWWorld.com.

Will Ospreay on the Best of the Super Juniors 2017

Ospreay earned an IWGP Jr. Heavyweight championship match against Kushida for winning the 2016 BOSJ. Unfortunately for Ospreay, he was not able to turn his BOSJ victory into championship gold.

As for Kushida, he fell out of the title picture recently after losses to current champion, Los Ingobernables’ Hiromu Takahashi. If Kushida is going to get back into the title picture, he will need to a strong showing in the round-robin based tournament this year.

In speaking with NJPW’s english language site, njpw1972.com, Ospreay had this to say:

On his first tournament opponent Marty Scurrll:

“He’s in Best of the Super Juniors? Excellent! He’s so different. Like a comic book super villain. I have a lot of respect for Marty because we’ve travelled up and down the UK and around the world. To bring the Villain against the Aerial Assassin in New Japan is hugely exciting. We’ll take it to a whole new stratosphere.”

On how another match with Ricochet in this year’s tournament will go:

“The same way I did the first time. I go there, I be me, and we show wrestling is an art form. But the result will be the same. I walk in, and walk out a winner.”

On facing Jushin Liger in possibly his last BOSJ:

“Last year we faced each other in England and I dressed up as Liger, Liger versus Dark Liger. I have so much respect and admiration for him. If I could aspire to be anyone, it’s him. He’s a legend, but legends slowly fade out and slowly die. Best of the Super Juniors is a young man’s game and it’s my tournament. I’ll show him what happened last year wasn’t a fluke and I will hit him with the Os Cutter one more time.”

AJ Styles Explains Why All New WWE Talent Should Go Through NXT (Video)

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Former WWE Champion AJ Styles was interviewed by Inside the Ropes last week when WWE was in Glasgow, Scotland. Last week we covered Styles comments about The Undertaker’s “heartbreaking” retirement at WrestleMania 33, which you can read about here.

The Phenomenal One also spoke about NXT and why he feels it’s essential for new talent signed to WWE to spend time in the company’s developmental promotion. Styles skipped NXT and went straight to the main roster as a surprise entrant in the 2016 Royal Rumble. However, Styles admits he’s actually jealous of the NXT talent and anybody who gets that experience .

“Well I gotta tell you, I’m very jealous of the performers who’ve come up through NXT,” Styles admitted. “They are like family. They know each other by their given names, their birth names. And so when they talk about each other I’m like ‘Who is that? Who are you talking to?’ So I’m like ‘Don’t call them by their birth name, call them by their WWE name.’ So I’m jealous of that, they have that family atmosphere, that’s the great thing about NXT”

He continued, “And I’ve said this also, back in – you know, way back then, years and years ago, there were people getting stabbed in the back so others can climb to the top. That’s not the way it’s done in NXT because you can actually care about the guy across from you. You know them, you know what they went through, you see them train, you’ve seen how hard they work. So you have a passion for each other and love man, so you want to see them do well. They love each other, and I think that’s the most important thing in the WWE right now.”

“I’ve seen guys work so hard together because they love each other like family. They see how hard each other has worked through NXT and made their way finally to the main roster. I think that’s really important. For WWE alone. When you got some of the guys I care about most in this business, my best friends, are the guys I have the best matches with. That hopefully never changes in the WWE, because of NXT.”

Randy Orton Buries Indy Wrestling: Matt Hardy, CM Punk & More React

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Randy Orton has been causing a stir on Twitter recently, stemming from a shot he took at Independent wrestlers and wrestling fans. While Orton is currently the focal point of the controversy, it was actually started by Rip Rogers, current head trainer at Ohio Valley Wrestling.

Things got rolling when Orton responded to the following tweet sent out by Rip Rogers:

https://twitter.com/Hustler2754/status/863340857281445888

Rogers’ sentiment seems to have struck a chord with Orton. Speculation is that Orton is not the only wrestler to come up through the WWE system who is not in favour of an independent wrestling scene which they feel is too focussed on high spots. Miz has expressed similar sentiment, albeit while performing on “Talking Smack”.

WWE Style vs. Indy Wrestling

Bully Ray, one of the newest additions to Ring of Honor, responded with the following:

Currently Randy Orton has the following tweet pinned on his profile:

Responses To Orton:

Naturally, many indy and WWE talents have responded to Orton:

The Young Bucks responding in the only way they possibly could:

https://twitter.com/MattJackson13/status/863995218089082880

https://twitter.com/Goldust/status/863927692562923520

https://twitter.com/adsryansmile/status/864118033874399233

Matt Hardy just recently chimed in on his feelings in-regards to high-spot focussed independent wrestling:

CM Punk and Ricochet:

https://twitter.com/KingRicochet/status/864012861831389184

Ron Simmons On His Historic WCW Title Win, Working With JBL, Attitude Era & More

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Wrestling and college football legend Ron Simmons was a recent guest on the Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling. Simmons discussed a wide variety of topics, from his days at Florida State University to his rise up the ladder in WCW and his long run in the WWE as a member of the APA along with JBL. You can listen to the full episode at Podomatic.com. Here are some highlights:

Approaching the 25th anniversary of his historic WCW Title win and becoming first African American World Champion:

“First, I like to phrase it like this. I have no ill-respect for the country or nation of Africa but I label myself as the first Black American Heavyweight Champion. As far as I’m concerned my ancestry is here in this country and that is the way I look at it and of course that holds a special meaning and interest in my heart and I can’t tell you that I don’t relive it every day of the month. Anybody that has been in this business whether it be male or female strive to get to the pinnacle in their career and that is becoming World Champion. It will always hold a special place in my heart and who better than to be in the ring with like somebody like Vader where you know it is going to be a brawl and it was. It continues to this day to resonate with me like it happened last week and not only because it holds a special place and meaning and even more than just becoming World Champion is to have others come up to me now and say; “Hey Ron, thank you for inspiring me not only to get into this business but inspiring me to go on to do things that I had reservations about doing.” You cannot ask for a better compliment than that.”

The overwhelming crowd reaction to his win that night in Baltimore, MD: 

“People often ask me about that. That came across like it was a real moment in professional wrestling history. People think that it was a pre-planned thing well it wasn’t. Ron Simmons had no knowledge that was going to take place until he got to the arena and I think it did come across like that. I had no knowledge of it, Vader had no knowledge of it and obviously the crowd had no knowledge of it. It was special and no only special for me and I hope for Vader as well but it was special for the people and that is why you saw such a positive reaction of people crying and the adulation that came across when that match was over. It was I believe was one of the best moments in professional wrestling history and certainly for myself.”

What led to the success of the APA and JBL’s personality outside the ring: 

“I can’t even express it into words what it was like to be tagged up with someone like Bradshaw. It was just like a natural and like a hand to glove. It had no other way than to go than to be a success. He and I were like two peas in a pod, we shared the same things out of the ring and since we came from similar background since he was football player and an athlete with a college scholarship and all of these things plus all of the out of the ring antics were similar to each other and we had a natural feel for each other as well in the ring and our personalities. There didn’t have to be a lot of verbal conversations between us and it is that way sometimes with tag teams when you get a mixture of people together sometimes it doesn’t come across on the screen if they don’t work together and there was a natural flow with us. We absolutely loved and cared for one another and I think that what resonated the most when people would watch us on the screen.”

The Attitude Era vs. today’s wrestling: 

“I am a little prejudice towards that era back then. I believed about the in the ring wrestling over spending times with out of the ring shenanigans and talking and all of these things. Our stuff was settled in the ring and I think people want to see more of that if you ask me. But times change and I am just prejudice towards that era because guys got in the ring and actually wrestled and that is what the people liked to see.”

The physical style of the APA: 

“You have to make what you are doing as believable as possible and I’ll tell you right now that was our intentions in doing exactly what we did. We have come across and like I said we are both football players so obviously contact was no big deal to us and professional wrestling is all contact since you are using your body. I always prided myself on being the best at whatever I had done (football or professional wrestling) if you are gonna do stuff, do it to the best of your ability and that is what myself and Bradshaw had intentions of doing for the people since that is what they wanted to see. That is exactly what I like to think we did and that is why I think it continues to give me something that works in my favor when I continue to get praised today and it is the highest compliment to be removed from your business and still have people say thank you for all the memorable moments. You can’t get any better compliment than that. ”

For this and every other episode of The Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling, you can subscribe on iTunes, Podomatic, Player FM, Earpeeler and Tune In Radio. 

UK Championship Special This Friday On WWE Network Hosted by Jim Ross & Nigel McGuinness

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WWE sent us a press release on Monday announcing a WWE United Kingdom Championship Special is airing on the WWE Network this Friday night (5/19).

The special will feature matches from last week’s UK Championship Live shows from Norwich, England. The action will be called by WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross and color analyst Nigel McGuiness.

WWE® NETWORK SPOTLIGHTS U.K. SUPERSTARS WITH NEW SPECIAL

STAMFORD, Conn., May 15, 2017 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) announced today that WWE Network will stream the WWE United Kingdom Championship Special this Friday, May 19 at 3 p.m. ET, with a re-air in primetime at 8 p.m. ET. The action will be called by WWE Hall-of-Fame announcer Jim Ross, who will be joined by color analyst Nigel McGuinness.

Emanating from Norwich, UK, WWE United Kingdom Champion Tyler Bate defends his title against the high-flying Mark Andrews; Pete Dunne and Trent Seven battle to become the number one contender to face the UK Champion at NXT TakeOver: Chicago this Saturday; Wolfgang faces Joseph Conners; and Rich Swann and Dan Moloney take on TJP and The Brian Kendrick in a tag team match.

“The WWE United Kingdom Championship Special will showcase some of the best talent from the U.K.,” said Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events and Creative. “This is an opportunity to super-serve our fans in the U.K. as well as fans anywhere who appreciate the U.K. style.”

Fans can stream the WWE United Kingdom Championship Special by signing up at WWENetwork.com.

Adam Cole Says Farewell To Ring Of Honor (Video)

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At Sunday’s ROH TV tapings from Philadelphia, PA, Adam Cole gave a farewell address to the fans of Ring of Honor. Cole recently became a free agent and has been doing interviews discussing what might be next for him.  Big thanks for SEScoops correspondent Michael Hottle for sending in this recap of Adam Cole’s speech that took place after the tapings:

“Thank you Adam”, “Please Don’t Go”, & “Speech” chants filled The 2300 Arena as Adam Cole asks, “Who’s ready for story time with Adam Cole baybay?” A “We will miss you” rang out. Cole then delivered his farewell address to the ROH crowd.

“I fell in love with pro wrestling at the young age of nine years old and I was infatuated with guys like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and The Rock and all the countless superstars that I saw. But what really made me decide that I wanted to be a professional wrestler was Ring of Honor.

I’ve said this countless times and it’s the truth, this place- not just the locker room, not just the camera men, not just the referees, but all of you, we are one big, giant family. The love and respect that each and every one of you have shown me is the reason I can stand before you here today nine years a pro wrestler, three times a world champion traveling the globe because you guys thought I was good enough. No matter what happens going forward, I just want each and every one of you to know that I deeply love you and Ring of Honor will always be my home. And I’ll end it with this, since she’s here, Mom- Happy Mother’s Day!”

Cole’s music hits as the crowd applauded. Cole held up his index finger indicating “one more time”. Cole bent down and throws ‘em up as the crowd let out a thunderous, “ADAM COLE BAYBAY!!!” The crowd chants “Thank you Adam” as he departs.

ROH War of the Worlds TV Tapings Results from Philadelphia (5/14)

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Thanks to SEScoops correspondent Michael Hottle for sending in the following results from Sunday’s ROH War of the Worlds TV tapings from the former ECW Arena in Philadelphia, PA:

Dark Match

The Tempura Boyz (Sho & Yohei) defeated Coast 2 Coast (Leon St. Giovanni & Shaheem Ali) by pinfall

Episode 1

The show opens with a promo from The Young Bucks and Hangman Page. They announce it’s a new era in the Bullet Club and welcome Marty Scurll to the ring. Marty talked about how stupid Adam Cole was at the War of the Worlds PPV. He continues and asks, “Who’s ready to have tea time with Marty?” Adam Cole interrupted asking, “Why have a tea party with Marty when you can have story time with Adam Cole?” Cole declares himself as the franchise player in the company. Page then says he’s going to run Adam Cole out of the company.

Match 1) Josh Woods defeated David Starr by submission with a rolling knee bar

Silas Young and The Beer City Bruiser come to the ring for a promo. Silas mocked Jay Lethal for being the franchise and asks what makes him special or better than him? Silas says he beat him clean in the ring in Milwaukee and claims he has his number. Lethal interrupted, walking down to the ring, saying this isn’t a company where we talk about our problems. This is a company where we fight. Silas informs Lethal, “You don’t get what you want. You get what I give you” as the Bruiser sneaks up on Lethal from behind and the next match begins. Silas joins the commentary team.

Match 2) Beer City Bruiser v. Jay Lethal

Lethal wins by DQ after Silas interferes. A beat down from both men commences on Lethal as Bobby Fish runs in for the save.

Cody comes to the ring and blames ROH management for not wanting a guy like him, a guy without an ROH contract, to be their world champion. Kazarian comes out, presumably early and by accident, as Cody continues his lengthy rant. He turns his attention to Colt Cabana on commentary asking what he said at the War of the Worlds PPV. Eventually Cody points out that Colt stated Lethal’s shoulders were down flat on the mat when Cody had him in the figure four and the referee didn’t do his job ignoring a pin.

TV Main Event

Match 3) Cody defeated Kazarian with Crossroads

Hangman Page comes down and they double team Kazarian. Christopher Daniels runs in for the save.

Women of Honor

Gabi Ortiz & Sumi Sakai defeated Tasha Steelz & “Bonesaw” Jessie Brooks after Sumi pinned Tasha following a northern lights suplex

Episode 2

Match 1) War Machine defeated Will Ferrera & Cheeseburger by pinfall

War Machine cut a promo talking about their IWGP tag title reign and then challenged The Young Bucks.

Match 2) BUSHI, Sanada, EVIL, & Naito defeated Mark & Jay Briscoe, Bully Ray, & Dalton Castle after Bushi nailed Mark Briscoe in the face with mist and Naito capitalized for the win.

TV Main Event

Match 3) Hangman Page defeated Adam Cole by pinfall following two reverse Tombstone Piledrivers

Lots of “Thank you Adam” chants before the bell. Following the match Page pushes referee Todd Sinclair down, takes his belt, and begins whipping Cole. Kazarian runs in for the save. Page & Kazarian quickly vacant the ring area. “Thank you Adam” chants break out again throughout the arena. As Cole raises his hand thanking the fans Marty Scurll attacks Cole from behind. Marty says he just stole his moment like he did at the War of the Worlds PPV.  It is then announced that the non-televised main event of the evening will be Marty Scurll v. Adam Cole in a Philadelphia Street Fight.

Intermission

Women of Honor

Kelly Klein defeated Jenny Rose by submission with a dragon sleeper

Episode 3

Match 1) Roppongi Vice & “The Kentucky Gentleman” Chuckie T (Chuck Taylor) defeated Hangman Page & The Young Bucks when Taylor pinned Matt Jackson

Match 2) The Rebellion (Rhett Titus & Shane Taylor) w/ Caprice Coleman v. Jay White & Jonathan Gresham

The match appeared to be a no contest after Kenny King and the Motor City Machine Guns interfered. King attacked Gresham first directly in front of the ref but let the action go. There was no official announcement. After the melee, the babyfaces stood in the ring and challenged The Rebellion to a match at the next ROH PPV on June 23rd. They declared that the losing team must disband. So the match is set- Search & Destroy v. The Rebellion at ROH Best in the World.

TV Main Event for the ROH Television Title

Match 3) Kushida defeated Marty Scurll by pinfall after Adam Cole came to the ring dressed as Marty Scurll, distracted Marty, and Kushida capitalized for the win becoming the new ROH TV champ.

Episode 4 (TV Episode 300)

Match 1) Silas Young & The Beer City Bruiser defeated Bobby Fish & Jay Lethal after Silas scored the pin on Lethal

Match 2) The Kingdom (Vinny Marseglia & Matt Taven w/TK O’Ryan) defeated Dalton Castle’s Boys

Following the match Mark Briscoe enters the ring and confronts Castle in what was a heated verbal exchange. Jay Briscoe comes down to intervene followed by Bully Ray. After talking him down, Mark then leaves through the crowd.

Match 3) Punishment Martinez destroys Joey “Diesel” Daddiego in under two minutes

Cody comes out to join the commentary team

TV Main Event

Match 4) The Addiction (Christopher Daniels & Kazarian) & Tanahashi defeated Gedo, Goto, & Will Ospreay after Daniels nails Gedo with the Best Moonsault Ever

Following the match Tanahashi vacants the area and Hangman Page and Cody attack Daniels & Kazarian


ROH Web Exclusive – Philadelphia Street Fight

Marty Scurll defeated Adam Cole with the chicken wing after countless interference from The Bullet Club

“Thank you Adam”, “Please Don’t Go”, & “Speech” chants filled The 2300 Arena as Adam Cole asks, “Who’s ready for story time with Adam Cole baybay?” A “We will miss you” rang out. Cole then delivered his farewell address to the ROH crowd.

“I fell in love with pro wrestling at the young age of nine years old and I was infatuated with guys like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and The Rock and all the countless superstars that I saw. But what really made me decide that I wanted to be a professional wrestler was Ring of Honor. [applause]

I’ve said this countless times and it’s the truth, this place- not just the locker room, not just the camera men, not just the referees, but all of you, we are one big, giant family. The love and respect that each and every one of you have shown me is the reason I can stand before you here today nine years a pro wrestler, three times a world champion traveling the globe because you guys thought I was good enough. No matter what happens going forward, I just want each and every one of you to know that I deeply love you and Ring of Honor will always be my home. And I’ll end it with this, since she’s here, Mom- Happy Mother’s Day!”

Cole’s music hits as the crowd applauded. Cole held up his index finger indicating “one more time”. Cole bent down and throws ‘em up as the crowd let out a thunderous, “ADAM COLE BAYBAY!!!” The crowd chants “Thank you Adam” as he departs.

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