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Eric Bischoff Talks About Turning Down WWE’s First Offer, His Biggest Contributions & Mistakes

Staff
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Eric Bischoff was the latest guest on Lilian Garcia’s Making Their Way to the Ring podcast, powered by AfterbuzzTV. In this candid interview, the former WCW President opens up about his father who was paralyzed, his history with Vince McMahon and WWE, why he didn’t want his son to wrestle, his last interaction with Matt Anoa’i and more. You can listen to the full episode here:

AfterbuzzTV sent int he following highlights of what Eric Bischoff said about:

His Last Interaction with Matt Anoa’i

“The last time I saw Matt was about I think about a year and a half ago he and I were on a, we made a personal appearance together, small little signing somewhere on the east coast, and we rode together in a car and it had been the first time I had seen him in a long time probably five to seven years, and we didn’t talk about wrestling, we didn’t talk about our experiences in the WWE—although they were all good ones and positive ones, we just talked about family and food because we both loved to eat, and we talked about our families and I think that that’s to me what I’ll remember, yes he was in the WWE, he was a superstar, he comes from a long, you know lineage of phenomenal talent in our industry but the guy was a family guy that just loved his spare time spend time with his family and cooking and enjoying life.”

His Biggest Contributions to Wrestling:

“The overall contribution I like to think I made was changing the way the business worked, we wouldn’t be watching three hours of Monday Night Raw live if it wouldn’t have been for the stuff I did when I was at WCW, we wouldn’t have had the attitude if it weren’t for some of those things I did in WCW that kind of created the need for that kind of content, there’s so many, we wouldn’t be watching Cruiserweights right now on 205 Live if it wasn’t for some of the things that I brought to the table back in the 90s so I think there were a lot of contributions that I made not directly to WWE but indirectly that we still enjoy very much to this day and has led to some of their success.”

Why He Turned Down WWE’s First Attempt at Bringing Him In:

“They had called about a year before and people don’t know this ya they called me about a year before you know Vince called me in whatever it was 2002. In 2001 I was in Wyoming in the summer and I got a call from JR, and JR wasn’t exactly excited to call me at the time you know he still had a chip on his shoulder a little bit and he called me and said, “hey you wanna come in and work a program?” and I said, “well, whats the program?” and he said, “well we’re working on it” and I said, “well sure, when would you want me to start?” “you gotta be here Monday” well this is like Friday and I had a house full of people, it was over the 4th of July, I had like twenty five or thirty people, friends and relatives that had driven in from all over the country for a family reunion and I’m thinking ya I’m not just gonna pick up go up there for a Monday Night Raw to participate in something what they’re not really sure what it is quite yet, it wasn’t right you know, so I politely passed and when I did I thought well that will be the last time they call me.”

How Vince McMahon Convinced Him To Join WWE:

“We got on the phone and the first thing he said to me, and I’m paraphrasing this okay so it’s not exact words, but he basically said right out of the shoot he goes you know Eric I would like to think that if the situation would have turned out differently and you would’ve come out on top, that you would reach out to me for an opportunity to step back in…what a gracious, elegant, classy, humble thing to say.”

The One Question Vince Asked Him Before Joining WWE:

“The one thing he did ask me, he said, well is there anything you won’t do? I said, ya I won’t move to Connecticut, other than that I’m your guy and I guess that’s all he wanted to hear is that I didn’t, I wasn’t bringing any stipulations, I wasn’t coming in with a list of things I would and wouldn’t do.”

Not Wanting His Son To Wrestle:

“I didn’t want him to get into professional wrestling…I tried hard to talk him out of it…because I knew the hand writing on the wall, I knew that the business was becoming more and more difficult, there were less and less opportunities than there were you know, there’s really only one company to work for and it was the WWE and unfortunately for my son you know his last name is Bischoff and that comes with a certain amount of baggage, it comes with a certain amount of opportunity too don’t get me wrong, but you know when you’re the second generation of a wrestling personality even though I’m not a wrestler, the name is kind of there.”

Mistakes He Has Made:

“Certain people have, especially in the industry have a perception of me and they think they know how I think and how I’m going to react and I’ve gone into meetings before with other wrestling organizations I’ll leave unnamed and groups of people that I won’t name and they’re expecting me to tell them what I think they should do based on my success because I’ve had some success, and the first thing I tell them is look I am worth way more to you as consultant or as an executive producer not because of the successes I’ve had, but because of the mistakes I’ve made. I’ve learned I’m way way way more valuable because of the depth and breath of failures and mistakes than I am from my successes.”

Kenny Omega Comments on Seth Rollins’ New Signature Move

Jake Skudder
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Seth Rollins recently debuted a new finishing/signature manoeuvre that bears a striking resemblance to Kenny Omega’s High Knee. He used it last night on RAW, as seen here:

Omega posted some tongue in cheek comments on Twitter today commenting on the ‘blatant thievery’ that he believes is rampant in Pro Wrestling currently.

The irony of Kenny Omega complaining about thievery whilst being a member of Bullet Club is not lost on this writer….

Becky Lynch: “Charlotte and I Have Barely Scratched the Surface”

Jake Skudder
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Smackdown Live competitor Becky Lynch recently spoke to the UK’s Mirror newspaper on a number of topics including the Superstar Shakeup and Charlotte making her way to the Smackdown Live women’s roster. Here are some highlights of what Becky Lynch said about:

What Charlotte brings to Smackdown Live:

“She is amazing. She is spectacular and unbelievable in her role, she really is. I think she will bring that extra X factor onto SmackDown. There’s nobody that gets under people’s skin quite like Charlotte. So it will be interesting to see what she does and how much she shakes up the women’s division.”

On a potential feud with Charlotte for SD Live:

“Absolutely. I think we only barely scratched the surface. I think one of the turning points in the women’s revolution was actually myself and Charlotte going into our feud. Before then there had been lots of women’s matches, which was great, and we were getting to see the rewards, but there wasn’t really any depth behind it.

Then once we started our feud that went into the Royal Rumble last year, I think that was really a turning point because we were able to see a friendship falling apart and that is something people can get into, as opposed to ‘okay, here’s women, there’s a revolution apparently, watch there matches’. This was something that people could relate to because it was one friend being ruthless and doing anything she could to win and screwing her best friend. Then it went off in a different direction but I would like to pick up where we left off.”

Head over to Mirror.co.uk to check out the full interview.

WWE UK Competitor to Challenge for ICW World Heavyweight Title

Jake Skudder
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WWE UK Division competitor Pete Dunne will be challenging for Insane Championship Wrestling’s World Heavyweight title this Sunday.

Dunne will be taking on current champion and WOS roster member Joe Coffey. Coffey won the belt back at ICW’s Barramania event against Pete Dunne’s British Strong Style stable mate Trent Seven.

Expect this to be a knock down, drag out brawl between two of the UK’s most hard hitting competitors. It also holds extra significance as Coffey is a member of the World of Sport roster and rumours continue to persist of an ICW/WWE partnership on the WWE Network.

PROGRESS: Several Departures and the First names announced for Super Strong Style 16 Tournament

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS’ latest Chapter event took place this past Sunday and featured the last bouts in the company for at least 3 acts.

  • Paul Robinson has unfortunately had to retire due to a hereditary blood condition, he wrestled his final match against Jack Sexsmith.
  • Dahlia Black and TK Cooper have temporarily said goodbye to the PROGRESS faithful while they work through their Visa issues, the New Zealand natives are hoping to work in the UK scene going forward.
  • Axel Dieter Jr wrestled in the main event against British Strong Style, he is expected to join the NXT roster soon and PROGRESS has officially revealed that this was his last match for the company.

  • Jack Sexsmith and Pastor William Eaver are the first two competitors in this year’s Super Strong Style 16 Tournament. SSS16 is one of the biggest tournaments in Europe and features top International as well as British talent.

 

Roderick Strong And Former Ronda Rousey Teammate Welcome Baby Boy

Chris Stephens
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Current NXT star Roderick Strong and fiancee Marina “the SuperNova from Moldova” Shafir are now the proud parents of a baby boy. WWE congratulated the couple on Twitter earlier today.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTStgOEh-p2/

Who Is Marina Shafir?

The SuperNova from Moldova was the nickname given to MMA fighter, Marina Shafir.  The 29-year old was also a member of Ronda Rousey’s “4 Horsewoman” stable that trained out of the Arizona Fight Club in Glendale. Current indy wrestler Shayna Baszler and Jessamyn Duke being the other 2 non-Ronda Rousey members of the group.

Like most other members of the stable, her MMA career is assumed to be over following a string of losses. After going 5-0 as an amateur, and then winning her first pro bout, Shafir was knocked out in just seconds her last two fights. She hasn’t fought in close to 2 years.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTIiXS7hQSZ/?taken-by=marinashafir&hl=en

SmackDown Live Preview (4/25): Women’s Title Defense, Orton In No DQ Match, AJ Styles vs. Corbin

Eric Lynch
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The April 25th edition of WWE SmackDown airs live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa and is the go-home show for Payback on Sunday. Join us at 8 PM ET tonight for live play-by-play SmackDown results and discussion.

This week’s episode of also marks the date that Randy Orton made his SmackDown debut back in 2002. On April 25th, 2002 a young Randy Orton made his WWE TV debut in a singles match against Hardcore Holly.

Here’s what WWE is promoting for tonight’s show:

– Naomi is scheduled to defend her SmackDown Women’s Championship in a singles match against Charlotte.

– American Alpha, Breezango, The Colons and The Ascension will compete in a “Tag Team Beat The Clock Challenge” to determine the new #1 contenders for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships.

– An exclusive interview with Shinsuke Nakamura.

– Randy Orton will face Erick Rowan in a No DQ match.

– AJ Styles will square off against Baron Corbin in a singles match.

Updated WWE Payback Lineup: Bayley and Bliss To Headline Show?

Chris Stephens
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Last night was the go-home show for Sunday’s Payback PPV. The show is a Raw-exclusive event, however Kevin Owens and Randy Orton (both from Smackdown) each have matches scheduled.

WWE Payback (Raw)
SAP Centre
San Jose, CA
April 30th, 2017
Kickoff Show:
  • Enzo Amore and Big Cass vs. Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows
    Winner of this match is most likely the next in line to challenge for the tag titles, depending on what happens with the Hardyz vs. Cesaro & Sheamus later.
  • MizTV Segment: w/ Finn Balor
    Balor doesn’t get a match on the PPV, possibly a cautionary move due to his concussion 3 weeks ago.
Main Show:
  • WWE Raw Tag Team Championship Match
    the Hardy Boyz (c) vs. Cesaro & Sheamus
    This will be the Hardyz 2nd title defence, their first coming the night after WrestleMania. Matt beat Sheamus, and Jeff beat Cesaro in the last 2 weeks on Raw.
  • US Championship Match
    Kevin Owens (c) vs. Chris Jericho
    Probably the final match in a storyline which started before SummerSlam last year.
  • House of Horrors Match
    Randy Orton vs. Bray Wyatt
    It is not altogether clear if the WWE championship is on the line in this match. WWE.com does not specifically mention the Orton’s championship being up for grabs, though that doesn’t necessarily mean it isn’t. None of the storytelling leading up to the match has indicated the title is on the line either.
  • Cruiserweight Championship
    Neville (c) vs. Austin Aries
    Rematch from WrestleMania. Neville won the first bout after raking Aries’ surgically corrected eye to gain an advantage.
  • Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman
    This will be the 2nd PPV match between the two, with Roman having won the first at Fastlane.
  • Seth Rollins vs. Samoa Joe
    Joe made Jericho tap out 2 weeks ago on Raw, and has looked strong ever since debuting on the main roster. If Joe is beating top-level guys clean as a heel on Raw, it means they are high on him.
  • WWE Raw Women’s Championship
    Bayley (c) vs. Alexa Bliss
    As Payback is in Bayley’s hometown, and no Universal title on the line, there is a high probability that this match goes on last. There’s no guarantee Bayley wins however, as Charlotte beat Sasha Banks in the main event of a PPV which was in Banks’ hometown, so all bets are off.
    Alexa Bliss has been a success story since arriving on the main roster. Bliss rarely wrestled in NXT and served more as a manager.

Match Announced For 205 Live Tonight

Chris Stephens
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WWE has announced that Neville will face “Gentleman” Jack Gallagher on 205 Live tonight. The two were on opposing sides of a tag team match this week on Raw, when Gallagher and Austin Aries defeated Neville and TJ Perkins (Aries made TJ tap).

State of 205 Live

205 Live is said to be struggling on the WWE Network at the moment. The brand has yet to find an audience of fans that connect with it in the same way NXT has done. With the recent additions to the division of Neville and Austin Aries however, the cruiserweight division is more visible now than it was initially.

At the moment, WWE seems to be going with Neville, Aries, Gallagher and Perkins as the top 4 on the brand. Behind them there are the mid-card programs involving Rich Swann and Noam Dar (Alicia Fox is probably just on Raw now), as well as the Brian Kendrick and Tozawa. Additionally, Dru Gulak looks to be starting a program with Mustafa Ali.

WWE RAW Recap & Reaction (4/24)

Robert Lentini
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Highlight Reel w/ Chris Jericho

This week’s RAW opened up with Chris Jericho and a Highlight Reel segment. Jericho claimed that this was the last Highlight Reel on RAW because he is going to defeat Kevin Owens for the United States Championship at WWE Payback. If Jericho wins, he will then join the roster of SmackDown Live. Jericho then announced that his guest tonight was himself. Jericho cut a promo on Kevin Owens referring to himself as “the face of America”. Jericho then called Owens the “hemorrhoid of America”.

The Miz and Maryse then interrupted and the crowd booed. Miz stated that RAW is no longer Jericho and it hasn’t been since he and Maryse arrived. The crowd chanted “you suck!” as Miz and Maryse got into the ring. Miz then made a joke about Kansas City and the crowd once again booed. Miz announced that the Highlight Reel has been officially been canceled and that it will be replaced with Miz TV. WWE employees then came down to the ring and removed the rug from the ring and brought in new chairs. The Jeritron 6000 was also raised out of the ring.

Dean Ambrose then joined the party and called Miz a “stupid idiot”. Ambrose then instructed the employees to change up the set and it was now the Ambrose Asylum. Ambrose informed Jericho that he will be rooting for him at Payback even though he smashed his potted plant. Jericho informed Ambrose that he still owed him $15,000 for destroying his light up jacket. Ambrose then gave Jericho a new jacket which was just a jacket with Christmas lights attached to it. Jericho put the jacket on and Miz called it hideous.

The Miz called Ambrose a slacker and stated that Ambrose devalues the Intercontinental Championship. Miz claimed that everyone should be thankful for Miz joining RAW and saving them from the mediocrity that is Jericho and Ambrose. Dean then gave Miz a Dirty Deeds and exited backstage. Jericho then added Maryse to the list for being married to The Miz.

Reaction: This segment was entertaining for a bit and then it dragged on and on. It wound up being a twenty minute promo that was just full of corny jokes. I’ve been bored with Dean Ambrose for a while now and this promo didn’t help that. I think Ambrose is very charismatic and talented. However, he hasn’t  done anything new for some time. His character just isn’t entertaining to me anymore.

Matt Hardy vs Sheamus

Sheamus connected with a shoulder tackle but was quickly planted with a Neckbreaker from Matt Hardy. Matt then hit Sheamus with a Leg Drop for a one count. Matt Hardy hit a Side Effect on Sheamus on the ring apron and RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Sheamus was in control and had Hardy locked in a Chinlock. Matt battled out of the hold but Sheamus hung him up on the ropes and clubbed him across the chest ten times.

Sheamus climbed to the top rope and hit Hardy with a Clothesline for a two count. Sheamus charged at Matt in the corner but Hardy got out of the way and Sheamus slammed into the ring post. Hardy then hit a Tornado DDT from the second rope. Matt then slammed Sheamus’ head into the turnbuckle several times as the crowd chanted “delete!”. Hardy planted Sheamus with a Running Bulldog and then climbed to the second rope. Hardy hit an Elbow Drop for a two count.

Hardy went for the Twist of Fate but Sheamus blocked it and hit him with a knee to the head. Hardy rolled out of the ring and Sheamus followed him. Sheamus planted Hardy with a Rolling Senton outside the ring. Jeff checked on Matt and Sheamus shoved Jeff away. Cesaro and Jeff Hardy started arguing outside the ring and Sheamus was distracted by it. Matt Hardy then connected with the Twist of Fate for the victory.

After the match, Cesaro got in the ring and started screaming at Jeff Hardy. Sheamus once again extended his hand for a handshake. The two teams shook hands for the second week in a row.

Winner: Matt Hardy

Reaction: I thought this was a good match. I’m really looking forward to the RAW Tag Team Championship match at Payback this Sunday. I think the sportsmanship between the two teams will come to an end at Payback.

RAW GM Kurt Angle was on the phone backstage and was discussing the Dumpster Match between Kalisto and Braun Strowman. The Miz then hung up the phone and complained about what happened earlier in the night. Angle then told Miz to find a partner because he has a match against Ambrose and Jericho later tonight.

Neville & TJ Perkins vs Jack Gallagher & Austin Aries

All four Superstars battled in the ring to start off the match. Aries and Gallagher launched Neville and Perkins out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Neville and Perkins had Gallagher isolated in the corner. Perkins hit Gallagher with a Dropkick and tagged in Neville. Neville controlled the match for a minute and tagged back in Perkins. Gallagher slammed Neville into the turnbuckle and then launched Perkins into him.

Aries was then tagged in and Aries cleaned house. Aries launched Neville and Perkins out of the ring and hit a Suicide Dive onto both of them. Back in the ring, Aries tried to pin Perkins but TJ kicked out at two. Aries then locked in the Last Chancery but Neville broke up the hold. Gallagher charged at Neville but Neville hit him with a series of kicks. Gallagher then leveled Neville with a headbutt. Aries then hit Perkins with the Discus Firearm for the victory.

Winners: Jack Gallagher & Austin Aries

Reaction: The match was solid and I think Perkins is much better as a heel. I wouldn’t mind if Perkins had his entrance music changed. It is just bizarre to have happy-go-lucky video game music playing while a heel walks down to the ring. When Neville returned as a heel, his Break Orbit music was altered and slowed down. It is a small thing that most people don’t care about, but I just don’t think his music fits right now.

Dumpster Match: Braun Strowman vs Kalisto

Strowman cut a promo before the match and stated that he considered everyone in the arena trash. Strowman claimed that when he stuffs Kalisto in the dumpster, it will be like he is stuffing everyone in the crowd in the dumpster as well. Kurt Angle was then shown backstage with Kalisto. Angle asked Kalisto if he was sure he wanted to go through with this match. Kalisto said that he does and wanted to fight for his pride.

Kalisto kicked Braun in the leg and Strowman just stared at him. Braun then grabbed Kalisto and threw him over the ropes onto the apron. Kalisto kicked Braun in the face and then connected with a Dropkick. Kalisto then hit a Jawbreaker and climbed to the top rope. Kalisto leaped onto Strowman but Braun caught him and threw him across the ring. Strowman then stepped on Kalisto’s back and posed for the crowd.

Strowman tried to put Kalisto in the dumpster ringside but Kalisto blocked it. Kalisto almost dragged Strowman over the ropes and into the dumpster but Strowman picked him up and tossed him back into the ring. Braun beatdown Kalisto for the next few minutes and once again tried to put Kalisto into the dumpster but Kalisto avoided it. Kalisto then hit a Dropkick to Braun’s leg and Strowman fell into the dumpster.

Winner: Kalisto

After the match, Strowman attacked Kalisto and slammed him to the mat several times. Braun then slammed Kalisto into the barricade as the crowd chanted “we want Roman!” and “Roman sucks!”. Strowman then threw Kalisto into the dumpster and shut the door. Braun then dragged the dumpster up the entrance ramp. WWE security then came out and tried to stop Braun from pushing the dumpster off the ramp. Braun then locked Kalisto in the dumpster and shoved it off the ramp. Kalisto was then placed onto a stretcher after the match. Kalisto was then shown being loaded into an ambulance as Kurt Angle looked on.

Reaction: The ramp was about four feet off the ground. It was pretty anticlimactic once I realized that the drop wouldn’t be that high at all. It got even more goofy looking when WWE replayed it 10 ten times from a bunch of different angles.

A Bray Wyatt promo was shown. Wyatt claimed that his mind was infected by Randy Orton’s actions. Wyatt stated that he will inflict pain and suffering on Orton during the House of Horrors Match this Sunday at WWE Payback. Bray said that the House of Horrors will become an eternal prison for Orton’s mind and soul.

Reaction: I hope that the House of Horrors match is entertaining at Payback. I have almost no expectations for the match.

Dana Brooke vs Alicia Fox

Fox hit a Northern Lights Suplex for a two count. Emma then came down to the ring as Dana leveled Fox with a Clothesline. Dana then slammed Fox to the mat and won the match. Emma smiled ringside as Dana Brooke celebrated in the ring. Emma then hugged Dana in the ring and Dana looked disgusted. Emma then walked away as Dana once again flexed in the ring.

Winner: Dana Brooke

Samoa Joe, Gallows and Anderson were interviewed backstage. Joe, Gallows and Anderson will face Enzo, Case and Seth Rollins later tonight. Gallows, Anderson and Joe stated that they will destroy Enzo, Cass and Rollins in the match. Karl Anderson referred to Enzo as a “butt nugget”. Joe stated that he is going to destroy Rollins for what he did to Stephanie McMahon and Triple H at Wrestlemania 33.

Gallows, Anderson & Samoa Joe vs Finn Balor, Big Cass & Seth Rollins

Anderson and Gallows attacked Enzo and Cass before the match. Samoa Joe dragged Big Cass over the barricade and beat him down. Anderson and Gallows then hit Enzo with a Magic Killer outside the ring. Rollins then stormed to the ring and traded punches with Samoa Joe in the ring. Big Cass got back in the ring and knocked Gallows, Anderson and Joe out of the ring. RAW went to a commercial break as security was checking on Enzo outside the ring.

RAW returned and Kurt Angle introduced a new tag team partner as Enzo Amore was unable to compete. Finn Balor was introduced as Enzo’s replacement. Cass, Rollins and Balor took turns beating down Gallows. Gallows tagged in Anderson and Balor leveled him with a Dropkick. Joe was then tagged in and he launched Balor into the turnbuckle. Joe then leveled Balor with a kick to the head.

Anderson then was tagged in and he connected with a Backbreaker to Balor for a two count. Gallows entered the match and hit several punches on Balor in the corner. Gallows locked in an Arm Bar in the middle of the ring. Balor fought out of it but Gallows planted him with a Side Slam. Balor finally tagged in Rollins and he hit Anderson with a Blockbuster. Rollins then connected with a Sling Blade to Anderson. Rollins hit a Suicide Dive onto Joe and Anderson outside the ring.

Balor leveled Joe with a Dropkick outside the ring. Back in the ring, Rollins hit Anderson with a Clothesline off the top rope. Rollins was about to hit the Pedigree but opted not to. Rollins then slung Anderson around and hit him with a knee to the face for the victory.

Winners: Finn Balor, Big Cass & Seth Rollins

Reaction: I hope that this is Rollins’ new finishing move. Rollins versus Samoa Joe is one of the matches I’m looking forward to at Payback. I wonder how much longer WWE is going to keep Enzo and Cass together. Enzo was taken out of the match tonight and they have yet to win a Championship in WWE as a team.

Alexa Bliss came down to the ring and cut a promo. Alexa poked fun at Bayley always talking about her childhood and wanting to be in WWE. Alexa then claimed that she didn’t come to RAW to talk, she came to RAW to win. Bayley then came down to the ring and stated that she knew Alexa was making fun of her. Bayley claimed that she will walk out of her hometown this Sunday still RAW Women’s Champion. Alexa then said that she is going to take her title, beat her down and humiliate Bayley in front of her own father. Bliss then called Bayley a “pathetic, sheltered child” and insinuated that Bayley had never kissed a boy.

Sasha Banks then came down to the ring. Bliss asked if Sasha puts love letters in her lunch bag. Banks called Bliss “a little troll wannabe”. Sasha said that Bayley is going to shut Alexa up this Sunday at Payback. Sasha then challenged Alexa to a match. Bliss stated that Sasha Banks was unhinged and that she didn’t feel safe being in a ring with her. Sasha then punched Alexa in the face and RAW went to a commercial break.

Sasha Banks vs Alexa Bliss

Bayley joined commentary for the match. Sasha controlled the match early and hit Double Knees while Alexa was hung up on the second rope. Sasha applied the Bank Statement but Alexa quickly got to the ropes. Alexa then rolled out of the ring and was counted out. After the match, Bayley chased after Alexa but Bliss retreated backstage. Bayley then turned around and Alexa attacked her from behind. Sasha Banks then chased Alexa away.

Winner via Count Out: Sasha Banks

Reaction: Alexa Bliss and Sasha Banks traded a few great insults during the promo. Bayley was pretty much lifeless during the promo before the match. The match itself was a throwaway, but I think Bayley and Bliss will put on a solid match at Payback.

Dean Ambrose asked Jericho to take him off the list backstage. Jericho agreed because Ambrose gave him a new jacket. Ambrose then slapped Jericho in the back several times and got pumped up about their tag team match later tonight. Ambrose then walked away and Jericho re-added him to the last for slapping his back.

Heath Slater, Curtis Axel, The Miz and Maryse were backstage promoting The Marine 5. Miz asked Slater to be his partner tonight but Slater stated that he already had a partner. Rhyno then showed up with his crackers and cheese. Maryse slapped the crackers out of Rhyno’s hands and they went flying everywhere. Someone then handed Miz a note and Miz stated that he has an awesome tag team partner for the match later tonight.

Apollo Crews vs Curt Hawkins

Crews dominated and won the match easily with a Powerbomb. After the match, Titus O’Neil showed up and raised Crews’ hand. O’Neil then pulled out his cell phone and took a selfie with Crews.

Winner: Apollo Crews

Reaction: Honestly, I don’t hate this. Apollo Crews is a charisma vacuum but is very talented in the ring. If Titus O’Neil is going to become some sort of manager character for Crews, I’m all for it. That means no more Titus O’Neil matches and maybe Crews will finally get some sort of reaction from the WWE Universe. I just think Crews is a great in-ring performer and I’d hate to see him fail on RAW after accomplishing very little on SmackDown.

Michael Cole revealed that Kalisto has suffered “hip and cervical trauma” from the dumpster fall earlier in the evening.

https://twitter.com/turnheelsite/status/856698837334872064

Kurt Angle was talking to The Miz backstage. The Miz informed Angle that when his tag team partner shows up, Angle is going to feel sorry for Jericho and Ambrose. The Drifter then walked by while strumming his guitar.

https://twitter.com/WWEDemonDiva/status/856700613098438656

Dean Ambrose & Chris Jericho vs The Miz & Bray Wyatt

The Miz asked his partner to come down to the ring and nobody came out. Angle then came down to the entrance ramp and started the match. Jericho and Ambrose beatdown The Miz for a minute and then Clotheslined him out of the ring. RAW went to a commercial break with Jericho and Ambrose in control. When RAW returned, Ambrose hit Miz with a Suplex and tagged in Jericho.

Jericho beatdown Miz for a minute and tagged Ambrose back in the match. Miz begged for mercy and demanded that Ambrose shake his hand. The Miz then slapped Ambrose and rolled out of the ring. Ambrose chased him but Maryse got in the way. Miz then took advantage of that and slammed Ambrose into the barricade. Back in the ring, Miz booted Ambrose in the face for a two count.

Miz planted Ambrose with a Neckbreaker and went for the pinfall but Ambrose kicked out. Miz then connected with a few Yes! Kicks as the crowd chanted “no!”. Ambrose connected with a Lunatic Lariat and tagged in Jericho. Jericho hit a Lionsault and went for a Codebreaker but Miz blocked it. Jericho Dropkicked Miz out of the ring and Miz started walking up the entrance ramp.

Ambrose chased him and smashed  Miz’s head into the announce table. Ambrose cleared off the table and was about to hit Miz with the Dirty Deeds but the lights went out. When they came back on, Bray Wyatt was standing on the table. Bray hit Ambrose with a Sister Abigail into the screen. The Miz and Bray then brought Jericho to the ring. Jericho planted Miz with a Codebreaker. Wyatt connected with a Sister Abigail to Jericho. Bray then delivered a Sister Abigail to Miz and posed in the ring as RAW went off the air.

Reaction: It was the final episode before Payback, so it makes sense that Bray Wyatt would show up. He is a part of the RAW roster now, but he is fighting for the WWE Championship at Payback this Sunday. The WWE Championship is featured on SmackDown and it feels obvious that Orton will defeat Wyatt at Payback. Overall, RAW wasn’t anything special tonight. The build to Payback has been bizarre because of the Superstar Shake-Up. It just feels disorganized and thrown together at the last second.

Correction: Pwnez in the comments pointed out that the House of Horrors match between Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt at Payback is no longer for the WWE Championship. WWE is no longer advertising it as a WWE Championship match in articles leading up to Payback. In other words, Bray Wyatt may actually have a chance now.

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

ROH TV Report: Marty Scurll vs. Kazarian For The ROH TV Title

Chris Stephens
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Ring of Honor TV
airdate: April 24th 2017 (FITE app)
Baltimore, MD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyX33tPtQyk

Christopher Daniels and Cody (Rhodes) Segment
Daniels cut a promo about Cody jumping him from behind. He says to Cody that if he wanted a title shot he just had to come and ask for one.
This brings out Cody who wants to face Daniels at War of the Worlds in the Hammerstein Ballroom, but that’s already scheduled to be Daniels defending against the winner of a 4-way match taking place next week. Cody indicates that Daniels and ROH don’t want him to win the title because he’s a part-timer and it would look bad.

1. Lio Rush (Search and Destroy) vs. Shane Taylor (the Rebellion)
Shane Taylor recently joined the Rebellion by attacking Lio Rush, so this was Rush’s chance at revenge. Caprice Coleman cut a promo on Rush before the match, just saying Rush should have joined them when he had the chance.
Taylor dominated early, but Rush battled back. In mid-comeback Rush turned his attention to Caprice Coleman however, which allowed Taylor to hit a spine buster for the pin.
After the match Sabin and Shelley came out to attend to Rush but were attacked by Coleman and Taylor from behind.
Winner: Shane Taylor

2. 2017 Top Prospects Tournament Final:
Josh Woods vs. John Skyler
Back and forth match with equal offence between the two. Woods worked his MMA gimmick quite a bit. Skyler ended up tapping to an armbar, earning Woods the victory. Woods now earns an ROH contract and a shot at the TV title.
After the match David Starr attacked Woods from behind. Starr claimed he was the top international star in wrestling (wrestles in Europe a lot but is from Philly). So looks like we’ll get David Starr vs. Josh Woods on ROH TV sometime soon.
Winner: Josh Woods (earns ROH contract)

Adam Cole does a pre-recorded interview asking the Young Bucks for forgiveness. Says they need to go back to being Bullet Club.

3. ROH TV Championship:
Marty Scurll (c) vs. Frankie Kazarian
Scurll went to throw powder in the eyes of Kazarian but got the ref instead. Kazarian then hit the Ace of Spades but there was no ref to count the 3. This brought out Hangman Page who eventually hit Kazarian with a chair, allowing Scurll to get the pin.
After the match Scurll cut a promo about how he was out of competition. This brought out Matt Sydal who indicated he wanted a shot at the ROH TV title. Scurll seemed less than pleased with this and left the ring area.
Winner: Marty Scurll

WWE To Hold Tryouts In Dubai

Robert Lentini
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WWE sent out the following on Monday evening announcing that they will be holding tryouts in Dubai from April 26th to April 29th:

DUBAI, UAE and STAMFORD, Conn., APRIL 24, 2017 – WWE® (NYSE: WWE) today announced that it will visit the United Arab Emirates this week in search of the next generation of WWE Superstars by holding a four-day talent tryout in Dubai from April 26-29.

The event, which will be hosted at the newly constructed Dubai Opera House, will give 40 men and women from the Middle East and India the opportunity to showcase their abilities in the hopes of being recruited to begin training at the state-of-the-art WWE Performance Center in the United States. The talent pool will comprise elite performers with a diverse background in sports and athletics, including power lifters, body builders, martial artists and fitness experts.

“WWE is dedicated to finding the most talented athletes and entertainers from around the world,” said Paul “Triple H®” Levesque, WWE Executive Vice President, Talent, Live Events and Creative. “Not only are the Middle East and India important markets to grow our business and reach new fans, but they are also key regions from which to recruit premier athletes who want to pursue the dream of becoming a WWE Superstar.”

The Dubai tryout is the latest example of WWE’s global talent recruiting efforts. In recent years, WWE has scouted rugby and soccer players from Europe, Kabaddi and Kushti athletes from India, and martial artists and boxers from China. In 2016, WWE held a talent tryout in Shanghai, which resulted in the signing of eight Chinese recruits, including Tian Bing, the company’s first-ever Chinese Superstar.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (4/24)

Eric Lynch
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The April 24th edition of WWE RAW aired live from the Sprint Center Arena in Kansas City, MO on the USA Network and was the final episode before WWE Payback on Sunday.

– This week’s broadcast on the USA Network kicks off with a highlight video of Braun Strowman destroying Roman Reigns, Kalisto and others backstage. The video also covers Strowman’s match against The Big Show where a big superplex caused the ring to collapse.

– We are welcomed to RAW inside the Sprint Center by a big pyro display, and Michael Cole with Corey Graves promoting the “dumpster match” between Braun Strowman and Kalisto. Booker T is filling in for Dave Otunga again tonight.

– Chris Jericho is out to the ring with The List for a new edition of The Hightlight Reel. Jericho says he’s going to beat his former friend Kevin Owens on Sunday, and thanks the fans for being his friends. Jericho says Owens’ new “face of America” nickname doesn’t fit him, and calls him the hemorrhoid of America. The Miz and Maryse interrupt next, and Miz tells the fans to shut their mouths. They get in the ring and tell Chris that “RAW is no longer Jericho.” The Miz says he and Maryse are the “it couple” on RAW, and Jericho tells him to “watch…….. it.” The Miz says The Highlight Reel has been cancelled, and will be replaced with Miz TV. The Miz orders the Highlight Reel set to be taken down, and the Miz TV set to be put up. The Miz beings to welcome everyone to “Miz TV,” but he’s interrupted by Dean Ambrose. Ambrose tears down the Miz TV set and has his Ambrose Asylum set brought into the ring. Ambrose says he’s rooting for Jericho in his match against Owens on Sunday, despite Ambrose’s history with Jericho. Jericho reminds Ambrose that he still owes him $15,000 for ruining his jacket. Ambrose says he doesn’t have the cash because he lost it playing blackjack, but he has a gift for Jericho. Ambrose presents Jericho with a jacket with Christmas lights stapled to it. Jericho looks like he’s about to try it on, but The Miz interrupts and says the jacket looks horrible. Jericho tries it on anyways, and The Miz cuts a promo on him and Ambrose. The Miz says he’s the one who should be getting gifts, so Ambrose gives him one: The Dirty Deeds in the middle of the ring. Ambrose leaves, then puts Maryse on The List for being married to a stupid idiot.

– We see Matt and Jeff Hardy backstage getting ready to head to the ring. Matt is in action up next.

– Matt Hardy def. Sheamus: Matt attempts a rollup on Sheamus very early, but Sheamus gets out. Hardy hits a swinging neckbreaker on Sheamus and follows up with a series of three leg drops for a two count. They brawl out to the ring apron and Hardy hits the side-effect on Sheamus onto the corner of the apron. Back in the ring, Sheamus mounts a comeback and hits the Ten Beats of the Baron on Matt. Sheamus hits a flying forearm off the top for a near-fall. Matt fires up and hits a clothesline on Sheamus in the corner, followed up by a running bulldog. Matt comes off the middle rope with a flying elbow on Sheamus for a two count. Sheamus hits a knee to the face of Matt and the two men brawl out to ringside. Jeff checks on Matt and Sheamus pushes Jeff away. Jeff gets heated and confronts Sheamus from the apron, then gets in a verbal altercation with Cesaro. Meanwhile in the ring, Sheamus turns around into Matt who hits the Twist of Fate for the win. After the bell, Cesaro confronts Jeff again and blames him for the loss. Sheamus tells Cesaro to calm down, but Cesaro’s still heated. Sheamus extends his hand to Matt, then Cesaro extends his to Jeff. They reluctantly shake hands and leave.

– We see Kurt Angle backstage telling someone on the phone that he’s going to make sure Kalisto wants to go through with his “dumpster match” against Strowman tonight. The Miz interrupts and complains about Ambrose and Jericho destroying Miz TV earlier. Angle says he doesn’t care, and if Miz has a problem he’ll have to solve it in the ring. Angle tells Miz to start looking for a partner, because he’s going to face both Jericho and Ambrose tonight. Maryse yells at Kurt in French, and Angle tells her “right back at ya.”

– Austin Aries & Jack Gallagher def. Neville & TJ Perkins: All four men brawl before the bell, with Aries and Gallagher eventually throwing Neville and Perkins to he outside. The match finally officially starts back in the ring and Neville takes control of things against Gallagher early on. Perkins tags in, and before Neville leaves Gallagher drops him into the turnbuckle then throws Perkins into him. Aries gets the hot tag and unloads on Neville and Perkins. Aries hits the pendulum elbow drop on Perkins, then a springboard senton bomb on Neville. Aries throws both Neville and Perkins to the outside and hits a suicide dive on both of them. Aries puts Perkins in the Last Chancery, but Neville breaks it up. Gallagher and Neville mix it up until Gallagher headbutts him down. Aries hits the discus forearm on Perkins for the win.

– The second hour of RAW kicks off with Braun Strowman coming out to the ring. The dumpster is next to the ring, and Strowman starts cutting a promo. He says all of the fans are trash to him, and when he throws Kalisto into the dumpster it’ll be just like he’s throwing all of the fans and Roman Reigns in there too.

– We cut backstage where Kurt Angle tries to talk Kalisto out of this match. Kalisto says if he doesn’t fight for his pride, he doesn’t stand for anything. Kalisto heads out to the ramp and Kurt looks impressed.

– Kalisto def. Braun Strowman: Kalisto hits some fast kicks on Braun early on. Kalisto hits a spinning jawbreaker on Strowman then heads to the top rope. Kalisto jumps, but Strowman catches him and tosses him across the ring. Strowman picks up Kalisto and heads towards the dumpster, but Kalisto latches on to Strowman and starts trying to pull Strowman over the ropes into the dumpster. Strowman throws Kalisto back into the ring and lays into him with kicks. Strowman hits a running splash on Kalisto in the corner, then hits some more strikes on him. Strowman throws Kalisto towards the dumpster but Kalisto latches onto the ropes. Strowman goes out to the apron with Kalisto and picks him up again. This time Kalisto falls into the ring and dropkicks Strowman’s knees out from under him, causing Strowman to fall into the dumpster. Strowman is not happy. Strowman climbs back into the ring and starts stomping on Kalisto. Strowman follows up with a series of chokeslams, then takes Kalisto out to the ringside for more punishment. Strowman throws Kalisto into the fan barricade, then throws him into the dumpster. Strowman closes the dumpster and starts hauling the dumpster up the ramp. Fit Finlay and Jamie Noble come out to try talking Strowman out of doing any more damage, but Strowman chases them off. Strowman ties the dumpster lid shut then shoves the dumpster off the side of the stage. Kalisto gets put in a neck brace and strapped to a stretcher as Michael Cole puts over the fall. We go backstage where Kurt Angle walks with Kalisto as they put him into the ambulance.

– WWE airs a promotional video for Roman Reigns featuring shots of fan signs in favor of Reigns.

– In the latest video from Bray Wyatt, we see more highlights from Orton burning down Wyatt’s house. Wyatt says he won’t forget what Orton did and some wounds never heal. Wyatt says that “ever room [Orton] enters” in their “House of Horrors” match will be worse than the one before. Wyatt shows illustrations of people being tortured, and continues to warn Orton about the House of Horrors match.

– Dana Brooke def. Alicia Fox: Alicia hits a Northern Lights suplex on Dana early on for a two count. Emma comes out to ringside early on during the match. Dana comes back with some clotheslines and a powerslam. Alicia goes for a scissor kick but Dana blocks it and hits a fireman’s carry into a piledriver for the win. Emma goes in the ring and hugs Dana after the match, and Dana looks confused.

– Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson are joined by Samoa Joe backstage for an interview. Joe says his strategy is always the same, strike first and annihilate completely. Gallows and Anderson say they’ve known Joe a long time and have exchanged ideas on how to torture people. Anderson says they have some ideas for how to punish that “butt-nugget” Enzo. Joe adds that he’s going to break Rollins for his crimes against Triple H and Stephanie McMahon.

– Seth Rollins, Enzo Amore & Big Cass vs. Samoa Joe, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson – No Contest: Joe, Gallows & Anderson attack Enzo & Cass from behind before the match. Rollins comes out to make the save, and fights off the heels with Cass. Enzo is still down at ringside and referees run out to check on him. Kurt Angle comes out and announces that Enzo is unable to compete tonight, so he’ll be replaced by Finn Balor.

– Seth Rollins, Finn Balor & Big Cass def. Samoa Joe, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson: Balor hits the ring and everyone starts brawling before he bell. The ring clears except for Cass and Gallows, so the referee calls for the opening bell. Cass works on Gallows in the corner and hits a running splash. Cass follows up with a fallaway slam on Gallows. Joe and Balor come in and they exchange strikes until Joe drops Balor with a Pele kick. Joe follows up with elbows and headbutts, then tags in Anderson who starts working on Balor’s left arm. Anderson hits a backbreaker and tags in Gallows who continues the offense. Gallows superkicks Cass off the apron, then misses a splash on Balor. Balors tags in Rollins who cleans house. Anderson tags in and Rollins hits the Sling Blade. Cass hits a big boot on Gallows that sends both men to ringside. Rollins tosses Anderson outside with Joe and hits a suicide dive on both of them. Balor takes out Joe at ringside, and Rollins hits a flying clothesline on Anderson back in the ring. Rollins looks like he’s going for a Pedigree, but he decides against it and hits a knee to the face of Anderson for the win. Joe stares down Rollins after the match.

– Alexa Bliss comes out to the ring and cuts a promo on Bayley. Alexa says she’ll take the Women’s Title from Bayley on Sunday at Payback, which brings out Bayley to interrupt. Bayley says she knows everyone is trying to take her Women’s Championship, but she’ll do anything to keep it. Bayley mentions that Payback is in her hometown, and Alexa says she’s going to beat her in front of Bayley’s family. Alexa says Bayley is a sheltered child and her story is done on Sunday. Sasha Banks interrupts next and calls Alexa a troll doll, and says Bayley will shut her up on Sunday. Sasha says she’s going to shut her up tonight, but Alexa says Sasha is out of control and will get their match tonight cancelled. Alexa starts to leave but Sasha stops her with a right hand, and we have a match.

– Sasha Banks def. Alexa Bliss via countout: Bayley is on commentary for this one. Alexa gets in lots of offense early on and controls the majority of the opening minutes. Sasha starts to fire up and goes for the Banks Statement, but Alexa quickly reaches the ropes. Alexa rolls outside and appears to be allowing the referee to count her out. Alexa backs up the ramp and the referee counts her out. Alexa starts to head backstage, but Bayley runs up and grabs her. Alexa breaks free and runs off, but then comes back and attacks Bayley from behind. Sasha starts running up the ramp and Alexa runs away again.

– We go backstage where Dean Ambrose is requesting to be taken off of Chris Jericho’s list. Jericho says no one gets removed from the list, and that Ambrose not only still owes him $15,000, but Ambrose also slammed him into thumbtacks. Ambrose promises he won’t do it again, and Jericho admits that he does like the homemade jacket Ambrose gave him. Jericho says that due to Ambrose’s peace offering, he just un-made The List. Ambrose walks off and Jericho appears to add him back to The List.

– Enzo & Cass vs. Gallows & Anderson, and Miz TV with Finn Balor are added to the Payback Kickoff Show on Sunday.

– Heath Slater, Curtis Axel and The Miz are backstage doing a promotional interview for The Marine 5. Miz asks one of them to be his tag partner tonight, but they both decline. Rhyno walks in and offers Maryse some crackers from his plate, but Maryse slaps the plate into Rhyno. Someone hands The Miz a note, and he says he now has an awesome partner for tonight.

– Apollo Crews def. Curt Hawkins: Hawkins takes control of things early on after a back suplex. Crews comes back with a running boot to the face and a kick to the midsection. Crews kicks Hawkins in the head again then hits a flying clothesline. Another kick to the head from Crews, then a spin-out powerbomb for the win after a very short match. After the match, Titus O’Neal comes out to congratulate Crews on his win and celebrate with him. Titus takes a selfie with Crews in the ring.

– We see Kurt Angle talking to Austin Aries backstage when they run into The Miz. Aries leaves and Angle asks The Miz if he found a tag partner for tonight. The Miz says one found him instead. The Drifter walks by, but Miz says it’s not him. Angle wishes Miz luck tonight and leaves.

– Dean Ambrose & Chris Jericho vs. The Miz & Bray Wyatt – No Contest: Before the match, Miz attempts to introduce his partner but no one comes out. Miz says the match is postponed until he figures this out, and he gets out of the ring. Kurt Angle’s music hits and the RAW GM comes out and reminds Miz that he told him he better find a partner, because whether his partner shows up or not he’s got a match right now. The Miz turns around and Jericho starts laying into him with chops to the chest. Ambrose hits a running bulldog on Miz, and then they throw Miz out to ringside. Miz gets back in the ring and the referee makes Jericho stay out on the apron. The Miz mounts some offense against Ambrose now that it’s one-on-one and takes control of the match. Ambrose tags in Jericho who’s still fresh. Jericho hits a flying axe handle off the top rope and a running bulldog. Jericho follows up with a Lionsault. Jericho goes for the Codebreaker, but Miz blocks it and rolls out of the ring. The Miz starts retreating up the ramp, but Ambrose follows him and beats him down around the announce table. Ambrose is about to put Miz through the table when the lights go out. When the lights come back on, Bray Wyatt is on the table with Ambrose and he punches Ambrose off. Wyatt hits the Sister Abigail on Ambrose face-first into the screen on the stage. Jericho runs in and starts punching Wyatt, but Wyatt and Miz double team Jericho. They carry Jericho down to the ring, and Miz tells Wyatt to let him handle it. Back in the ring, Jericho hits the Codebreaker on Miz. Wyatt runs in and hits the Sister Abigail on Jericho, then poses and stares into the camera. The Miz comes up behind Wyatt and pats him on the back, which earns him a Sister Abigail from Bray too. Bray drops to his knees and yells “Follow the buzzards” as RAW goes off the air.

AJ Styles & HBK Discuss ‘Dream Match’ Rumors On Table For 3 Tonight After RAW

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Immediately following tonight’s WWE RAW, a new episode of Table For 3 premieres on the WWE Network. The featured diners on this installment will be Shawn Michaels, AJ Styles and Kevin Nash.

In this teaser video posted on WWE’s Youtube channel, Styles, Michaels and Nash discuss how speculation of The Phenomenal One and HBK’s dream match began.

WrestlingDVDNetwork.com is reporting that the WWE project Sean Mooney was filming with Charly Caruso is a DVD titled “WWE Unreleased & Unseen: 1986-1995.” The project synopsis reads:

“WWE unlocks the vault and brings you never-before-seen matches from 1986-1995. Check out these unreleased hidden gems featuring some of the greatest Superstars in WWE history.”

WWE Unreleased & Unseen is scheduled to be released in August in the United States and in September in the UK.

Shaq Explains Why He Didn’t Wrestle Big Show At WrestleMania

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WrestleMania 33 came and went earlier this month without the much talked about Shaquille O’Neal vs. Big Show match ever taking place. On the 100th episode of Shaq’s The Big Podcast, Shaq gave his side of the story regarding what transpired during his negotiations with WWE.

Shaq maintains that he wanted to wrestle Big Show in Orlando, but WWE dropped the ball and failed to make a deal with his team. When asked by his co-hosts why we didn’t see him at WrestleMania, Shaq said,

“Because they kept playing. First, they said it was me and Big Show. Then, they said it was going to be 3 and 3. Then, they cancelled it so when they cancelled it, I made other arrangements. then they tried to call back and tried to get it done, and I just said, ‘I’m not going to do it.’ They messed it up.”

Shaq’s podcast co-host Kinkade said he didn’t think Shaq would agree to wrestle Big Show if it meant losing on WWE’s biggest stage. Shaq scoffed at that idea, saying he’d have no problem losing if it meant putting on a good show and entertaining the kids. “So you’re saying I didn’t want to lose? It’s for the kids, John. I would have lost for the kids. For the kids.”

You can listen to The Big Podcast with Shaq on iTunes and PodcastOne.com.

CM Punk Joining The Cast Of MTV Series ‘Champs Vs. Pros’

Chris Stephens
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CM Punk is set to star on the MTV series: Champs vs. Pros starting this May.  Punk will be on the “Pro” side and is listed as a professional UFC fighter, not a former professional wrestler. The “Champs” will be contestants who have won on previous seasons of the long-running reality show.

Other “Pros” booked for the series include Lolo Jones, Shawne Merriman, and Candice Wiggins. They will face the Champs in a series of athletic contests over the course of a 6 week run. The show will kickoff with a reunion special for the Champs on May 9th.

MTV’s official release can be read here.

CM Punk’s Next Fight?

CM Punk is said to be training for his next bout, though the UFC has given no indication as to when that will be, or even if they are interested in promoting his next fight. While Punk’s debut on PPV at UFC 203 did well for the company, his performance was so abysmal that MMA purists were left in an uproar about him competing in the company at all.

Punk has hinted that a return to pro-wrestling could be in his future however. On numerous occasions, Punk has made it clear he is a fan of the Young Bucks and others who have made a name for themselves in smaller promotions or the indies in recent years.

Cody Rhodes Talks About WWE’s Plans For Him After The Brand Split, JBL’s Alleged Bullying

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Cody Rhodes recently appeared on The Other Guys podcast and spoke to  Baby Huey and Bimbo Jimbo about the JBL bullying allegations, his time on the independent wrestling scene and a proposed WWE storyline that would have seen him compete on both RAW and SmackDown as Cody Rhodes and Stardust. Here are some highlights of what Cody said about:

The Young Bucks Setting The Standard For Independent Wrestlers:

“They created a world where guys didn’t need WWE, or to be part of WWE…the venues might be smaller, but the crowds are full. The energy is the same level if not higher…the level of talent is at an absolute high. 

Plans WWE Had For Him With The Brand Split: 

“At one point the plan was for me to be Stardust on one brand, and Cody Rhodes on another brand. I thought that was a really great idea. Absolutely wanted to do it! Everybody wanted to do it except for one person who will remain nameless, but that one person has the main vote.”

If He Ever Saw JBL Bully Anybody:

“I’ve known JBL since I first got there ya know in 2007…I never encountered that with John at all. Wrestling isn’t for everybody though. It’s not bullying sometimes when it’s just playful ribbing… I never personally saw any bullying the entire time, and I was there for 11 years, and in every locker room.”

You can listen to the full interview here:

Crazzy Steve Reportedly WWE Bound

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After working last Thursday’s Impact Wrestling tapings from Orlando, news got out that Crazzy Steve of The Decay was leaving the company. Shortly after, he tweeted an appreciative message to everyone and tagged @ImpactWrestling.

According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Crazzy Steve decided to leave Impact Wrestling because he received and accepted a job offer from WWE.

Crazzy Steve made his Impact Wrestling debut back in April of 2014 as part of The Menagerie. He’d later go on to capture the Impact Wrestling tag titles with Abyss as part of The Decay.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3to9TwcByac

Crazzy Steve joins a long list of performers who have exited Impact Wrestling over the past several years in favor of WWE. In addition to legends such as Sting, Kurt Angle and the Hardy Boys, WWE has acquired countless TNA mainstays including AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Bobby Roode, Eric Young and Drew McIntyre. Just last week, Wade Keller of PWTorch.com reported that Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis are also headed to WWE soon.

WCPW Announces Partnerships With New Japan Pro Wrestling & Revolution Pro

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What Culture Pro Wrestling (WCPW) has announced partnerships with New Japan Pro Wrestling and the UK’s Revolution Pro Wrestling.

The three companies will co-present the Japanese qualifying leg of the Pro Wrestling World Cup on July 7th at Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Manchester, England. NJPW will provide 8 competitors for the qualifier to compete in a one night tournament. The two finalists determined that evening will advance to the World Cup Finals in August,.

The first name announced for the Pro Wrestling World Cup bracket is Jushin Thunder Liger.

For more details on the Pro Wrestling World Cup and this new alliance with NJPW & RPW, visit WC.PW and check out the official announcement below:

Adam Rose Says Vince McMahon Was Almost Revealed As The Bunny

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Former WWE Superstar Adam Rose recently spoke with Chris Van Vliet and revealed that his fellow Rosebud “The Bunny” was almost revealed to be portrayed by WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. He also commented on the breakout success of Braun Strowman, who also got his start in WWE as a Rosebud. Here are some highlights of what Adam Rose said about:

Vince McMahon as The Bunny:

“Road Dogg was in a meeting for two hours before Raw to figure out who the bunny was going to be and they couldn’t decide. I wanted [Justin] Gabriel to do it because he was my friend since I was 15 and he was 16. His dad trained me and we’ve know each other our whole lives. I said let him do it and they said well no one really knows him anymore and they won’t get the reaction they want.

Then there was a suggestion that Vince McMahon do it and I was like ‘What’s the payoff? I don’t get it.’ They were like ‘We don’t know where to go, so why not have a crazy billionaire do it?’

Braun Strowman working as a Rosebud:

“Braun is the nicest person in the world, people don’t know that. And he has this voice, this country voice. If he sings country music you’ll fall in love with him. He can sing a country song like no other. He has this amazing voice and at one point he was my Rosebud general because he used to control the others. I still remember at Raw this one time and Braun was yelling ‘Everyone listen up. This is about Mr. Rose, this is not about you!’ and I was like ‘Braun, calm down there’s no need to be so hard about the whole thing.’

rosebuds
Braun Strowman, Becky Lynch, Carmella, Simon Gotch & The Drifter as Rosebuds

That’s the one Rosebud people remember. They’ll never let him live it down. I still remember being in Gorilla Position and Vince McMahon seeing him in his Rosebud costume and looking at Hunter like ‘What are you doing to us?'”

You can check out the full interview here:

WWE RAW Preview (4/24): Dumpster Match, Road To Payback Continues

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With just 6 days to go until Sunday’s Payback pay-per-view, WWE RAW rolls through Kansas City, Missouri tonight for a live 3-hour broadcast at the Sprint Center Arena.

WWE.com is advertising the following items for tonight:

  • Braun Strowman to battle Kalisto in a Dumpster Match after Kalitso challenged the Monster Amongst Men.
  • Alexa Bliss closes in on the Raw Women’s Title. She challenges Bayley this Sunday.
  • Will The Miz retaliate against Dean Ambrose?
  • Bray Wyatt brings true “Horror” to Raw
  • Business gets “personal” between Seth Rollins and Samoa Joe

Join us here later tonight for our weekly WWE RAW Results & Live Coverage.

Ahead of tonight’s RAW, catch up on the Top 10 moments from last week:

Sin Cara Shows Off New Ring Gear

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Sin Cara, whose last match on WWE programming was in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania, debuted new ring gear at house shows over the weekend.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTREO-RgYsC/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTPriarAQJq/?taken-by=wwe

Sin Cara in WWE

Formerly known as Hunico, 39-year old Jorge Arias had a long run to WWE. He wrestled in AAA Lucha Libre, and briefly in TNA as a member of Team Mexico in the World X Cup competition. He was signed to WWE in 2009.

Arias toiled in developmental until problems began to arise with the original Sin Cara played by the former Mistico from CMLL. After feuding with the original version of the character, Hunico took over the role on a full-time basis in 2013.

Rey Mysterio Comments On Son Training To Wrestle

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You might remember Rey’s son Dominic from the 2010 CM Punk vs. Rey rivalry. It’s now 7 years later and Dominic is about twice the size of his father, and is training for a pro-wrestling career.

The 20 year old, who could go by Rey Mysterio III, started training in early 2017.

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

Rey Mysterio Comments On Son’s Training

Reporters caught up with Rey at a comic convention this weekend, and asked him about his son’s training and how is father’s legacy will impact his career.

“I don’t think it’s hit him yet. That will eventually come, and I hope he understands exactly what he’s going through. My kid is a very smart individual” … “I wanted him to continue with the legacy, so now that he’s here, I just gotta do my job. I just gotta make sure that I prepare him right. Once I do that, I’m sure that he’ll be bigger and better than his old man.”

Dominic Gutierrez is currently training at the Battle U Pro Wrestling school in San Diego.

Jack Swagger Signs With House of Hardcore

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Former WWE heavyweight champion, Jack Swagger, has announced on Twitter he will be joining Tommy Dreamer’s House of Hardcore promotion. Swagger will be touring Australia with the promotion this June.

He announced his signing on Twitter earlier:

Jack Swagger Post-WWE

The 35 year-old Donald Jacob Hager Jr. singed with WWE in 2006, making his main roster debut on the ECW brand in 2008. Jack Swagger won the world heavyweight championship in 2009, but would fall down the card in later years.

He appears to still be using the Jack Swagger name outside of WWE, which is interesting. Swagger was signed out of college where he was a wrestling and football standout from Oklahoma. He never wrestled on the independents or any non WWE event prior to signing with the company.

Swagger asked for and received his release from WWE in March of 2017.

Scott Steiner Returns To Impact Wrestling, Will Wrestle At Slammiversary (Photos)

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Scott Steiner made his return to Impact Wrestling tonight during their TV tapings. Steiner showed up to assist Josh Mathews in his feud with Jeremy Borash. It was announced that Mathews & Steiner will face Jeremy Borash and Joseph Park at Slammiversary.

Scott Steiner was released from TNA in 2011. Steiner has been working with Jeff Jarrett’s promotion Global Force Wrestling since it was created. GFW and TNA have merged so that may have led to Steiner showing up. TNA also sued Steiner for a breach of contract, but that case was dismissed on February 22, 2016. Steiner also owns a Shoney’s restaurant in Acworth, Georgia. He witnessed a shooting near the restaurant last year. 

https://twitter.com/randyperkins65/status/720429021851480064

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