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Second NXT Superstar Announced For WrestleMania 33

Scott Lazara
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22

WWE has announced that NXT Superstar Killian Dain of SAnitY will be competing in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania 33 tomorrow.

Dain joins Chinese recruit Tian Bing as the only NXT Superstars announced for the battle royal. Dain teamed with his SAnitY partners at TakeOver: Orlando tonight to defeat Ruby Riot, Kassius Ohno, Roderick Strong and Tye Dillinger.

The announcement on Dain’s WrestleMania role was made in this video by Cathy Kelley:

NXT TakeOver: Orlando Recap & Reaction

Robert Lentini
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SAnitY vs Tye Dillinger, Roderick Strong, Kassius Ohno & Ruby Riot

No Way Jose was attacked by SAnitY during Axxess and was ruled out of this match. Kassius Ohno replaced No Way Jose in this match. Kassius beatdown Wolfe to start off the match. Eric Young distracted Kassius and Wolfe knocked him to the mat. Eric Young then enterered the match and isolated Kassius in the corner. Wolfe got back into the match and missed an Elbow Drop. Kassius then tagged in Roderick Strong and he immediately connected with a Dropkick that sent Wolfe to the mat. Strong got distracted with Killian Dain on the ring apron and Wolfe connected with a Suplex.

Dain then entered the match and connected with a series of Elbow Drops to Roderick Strong. Dain hit a Dropkick and Strong bounced off of the turnbuckle. Strong spend the next few minutes getting beatdown by Dain, Wolfe and Young. Eric Young hit an Elbow Drop off the top rope to the back of Strong. Eric Young charged at Strong in the corner but Roderick got out of the way and tagged in Tye Dillinger. Tye planted Wolfe with a DDT and launched Eric Young out of the ring. Dillinger connected with a Crossbody to Wolfe and then hit a Suicide Dive onto Young outside the ring.

Back in the ring, Dillinger connected with several punches to Young in the corner. Young hit a Neckbreaker on Ohno in the ring. Roderick Strong hit the Sick Kick on Eric Young and knocked him out of the ring. Nikki Cross leaped on Strong’s back and attacked him. Ruby Riot then jumped on Dain’s back and attacked him. Ruby then threw Nikki Cross out of the ring and then hit her with a Dropkick. Killian Dain then planted Dillinger with the Ulster Plantation for the victory.

Winners: SAnitY

Reaction: This match started out slow but really picked up towards the end. The crowd was heavily behind Tye Dillinger but he once again was the one to take the pinfall at a TakeOver event.

Aleister Black vs Andrade “Cien” Almas

Aleister Black had an awesome entrance before the match started. Almas decided to pose in the ring a few times at the beginning of the match and didn’t seem to be taking things too seriously. That didn’t work out too well for him as Black knocked him out of the ring. Almas got back in the ring, took control of the match and slapped Black across the face. Almas then posed in the ring again and went for a Suplex but Black blocked it. Almas locked in an Arm Bar on the ropes and the hold was quickly broken. Almas then connected with a Dropkick off the top rope and applied another Arm Bar in the center of the ring.

The crowd got behind Aleister Black and he booted Almas in the face to break the hold. Almas went for a punch but Black caught him and connected with a knee to the the chest of Almas. Black then knocked Almas out of the ring and followed it up with a Moonsault off the ring apron. An “NXT!” chant broke out as the action returned to the ring. Both Superstars connected with a kick at the same time and they both fell to the mat. Almas flipped across the ring and connected with another kick for a two count. Almas followed it up with the Double Knees and followed it up with a snap German Suplex for a two count. Aleister then hit a spinning kick (Black Mass) for the pinfall victory.

Winner: Aleister Black

Reaction: Both Almas and Black performed very well in this match. There were some clunky moments, but overall this match was very solid. Aleister Black has a lot of potential and could be on of NXT’s bigger stars once some of the current talent makes their way to the main roster.

NXT Tag Team Championship Match: The Authors of Pain (c) vs The Revival vs DIY

DIY and Revival started off the match and on the same page and attacked The Authors of Pain. Gargano and Ciampa sent Akam into the barricade outside the ring. DIY then grabbed a table from under the ring and set it up outside the ring. DIY then slammed Akam into the steel steps. The Revival took out Rezar outside the ring as well. DIY and Revival then battled in the ring.

Akam tagged himself in and Clotheslined Gargano and Ciampa. Rezar was tagged in and he continued to beatdown Ciampa as Gargano made his way to the ring apron. Ciampa went for a Crossbody off the second rope but Rezar caught him. Ciampa connected with a kick to Rezar and went to tag in either Dash or Dawson. Both members of The Revival then hopped down from the ring apron and refused to be tagged in.

DIY returned the favor by hopping down from the ring apron when Dawson looked for a tag. Akam went for a Clothesline on Dawson but missed and went tumbling out of the ring.  DIY then took out both members of The Authors of Pain outside the ring. A “Johnny Wrestling!” chant broke out as Gargano and Dawson battled in the ring. Gargano leaped onto Rezar and Akam outside the ring but they caught him and threw him into Wilder outside the ring.

Back in the ring, Akam and Rezar took turns beating the hell out of Gargano. Ciampa pleaded for a tag but Akam prevented it. Ciampa was eventually tagged in and he connected with a snap German Suplex on Akam. Ciampa then connected with a series of knees and hit a second snap German Suplex. Ciampa and Gargano tried to Powerbomb Rezar off the ring apron through the table but he held onto the ropes. The Revival then hit Rezar in the face and DIY were finally able to Powerbomb Rezar through the table.

DIY and The Revival then surrounded Akam  in the ring. Dawson applied the reverse Figure Four and Gargano applied the Crossface at the same time. Ciampa and Dash tried to fight off Rezar but he powered through and all three men fell on top of Dawson, Akam and Gargano to break the hold. Gargano connected with a Superkick that knocked Rezar to the mat. Dawson and Gargano then hit the Meeting in the Middle. Wilder and Ciampa followed it up with a double team move of their own.

Wilder and Gargano then hit dueling Suicide Dives onto Akam and Rezar outside the ring. Ciampa then climbed to the top rope but Dawson attacked met him there. Dawson then hit an absurd Superplex off the top rope to the outside of the ring and the two men landed on everyone else competing in the match. Back in the ring, The Authors of Pain hit The Last Chapter on Ciampa and DIY was eliminated.

Dash hit an uppercut on Rezar and Dawson then planted him with a German Suplex for a two count. Rezar got back up and slammed Dawson to the mat with a Chokeslam. Rezar and Akam then Powerbombed Dawson and Wilder as the crowd booed. Rezar and Akam then smashed Dawson and Wilder into each other and hit the Super Collider for the victory.

Winners & Still NXT Tag Team Champions: The Authors of Pain

Reaction: It is going to be difficult for any match to top this one during Wrestlemania weekend. Honestly, this match was that damn good. Rezar and Akam are incredible athletes for their size. DIY are consistently great and The Revival are as close to a perfect tag team as you can get. This is one of those matches you will be watching over and over again.

NXT Women’s Championship: Asuka (c) vs Ember Moon

The match started off back and forth. Asuka and Ember Moon quite literally ran into each other a couple of times and then started screaming at each other. Moon then connected with a kick and taunted Asuka. Moon then hit a spinning kick and knocked Asuka out of the ring. Back in the ring, Asuka took back control of the match. Asuka tried to apply the Asuka Lock but Ember Moon blocked it and connected with a forearm to Asuka’s head. Moon then hit a Crossbody off the top rope onto Asuka outside the ring.

The action returned to the ring and Asuka once again took control of the match. Ember Moon powered out of the Asuka Lock and slammed Asuka to the mat. Asuka charged at Ember Moon but Moon moved out of the way and connected with a Superkick. Moon then hit a Fallaway Slam. Asuka caught Moon as she tried to springboard off the second rope and hit a German Suplex for a two count. Ember fought back and climbed to the top turnbuckle.

Asuka joined Moon on the top turnbuckle, but Moon knocked her to the mat. Ember Moon was gearing up for the Eclipse but Asuka shoved the referee into the turnbuckle. Ember Moon then fell off the top rope and slammed to the mat. Asuka then connected with a kick to Moon’s head for the victory.

Winner & Still NXT Women’s Champion: Asuka

Reaction: The finish to this match was a bit odd because the referee didn’t just immediately disqualify Asuka. I guess he somehow thought the obvious shove was a mistake. Other than that, this match was good. I would have preferred if it was given some more time but it was still entertaining. Ember Moon will definitely be holding that NXT Women’s Championship in the near future. Asuka had to resort to shoving a referee to defeat her.

Drew McIntyre was shown in the crowd with a guy that is not Seth Rogen seated behind him. McIntyre recently left Impact Wrestling and may be making his return to NXT or WWE in the near future.

NXT Championship Match: Bobby Roode (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura

Dueling “Nakamura!” and “Bobby Roode!” chants echoed throughout the arena as the match started. Shinsuke taunted Roode in the beginning of the match and Roode laughed it off. Nakamura kicked Roode in the chest a couple of times and once again taunted him. Nakamura then threw Roode to the mat and hit him with a knee in the face. The match went back and forth for the next few minutes. Roode connected with a Dropkick and then knocked Nakamura out of the ring.

Back in the ring, Roode continued to control the match and did so with a grin on his face. Roode stomped on Nakamura in the corner and posed for the crowd. Roode then connected with a chop to Nakamura’s chest that could be heard in the bleachers. Roode followed it up with a Neckbreaker for a two count. Roode controlled the next few minutes of the match by applying submission holds.

Nakamura finally connected with a kick and both Superstars fell to the mat. Nakamura propped Roode up across the top rope and connected with a knee to the midsection. Nakamura then hit a Dropkick that sent Roode to the ring apron. Nakamura then hit two knees to the back of Roode’s head while he was laying on the ring apron. The action returned to the ring and Roode hit a massive Clothesline.

Shinsuke connected with a kick to the face and set up for the Kinshasa. Roode avoided it and focused his attack on Nakamura’s injured knee. Roode slammed Nakamura’s knee into the ring post and followed it up by applying the Figure Four in the middle of the ring. Shinsuke reversed the hold but Roode immediately grabbed the ropes and the hold was broken.

Roode once again targeted Shinsuke’s knee and stomped on it a couple of times. Roode went for the Figure Four but Nakamura reversed it into an Arm Bar. Roode was able to reach the bottom rope to break the hold. Shinsuke then beatdown Roode in the corner and connected with several kicks. Roode battled back and hit a Backstabber for a two count. Roode hit the Glorious DDT for a two count. Roode took a few seconds to attempt the pin and it cost him.

Roode rolled out of the ring and grabbed the ring bell. Roode brought the bell in the ring and the referee grabbed it. Roode demanded to be disqualified. The referee didn’t comply and simply took the bell from him. Nakamura went for the Kinshasa but Roode countered it into a Spinebuster for a two count. Roode once attacked Shinsuke’s knee and climbed to the second turnbuckle. Roode then leaped down while holding Nakamura and planted him head first into the mat with a massive Glorious DDT for the victory.

Winner & Still NXT Champion: Bobby Roode

Reaction: There have been rumors going around that Shinsuke Nakamura will be heading to the main roster soon. If that is the case, his last NXT match was a great one. Wrestlemania 33 is tomorrow night and it will be a spectacle. There will be musical performances and the atmosphere will be electric. However, from a pure wrestling standpoint it will be very difficult for Wrestlemania to be better than this show. There wasn’t a bad match on the card. The NXT Tag Team Championship match was the best match of the night in my opinion.

What did you think of NXT TakeOver: Orlando? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Drew Galloway Ringside For NXT Takeover: Orlando

Scott Lazara
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It appears Drew Galloway is headed to NXT as the former Impact World Champion was shown sitting ringside at tonight’s NXT TakeOver: Orlando event. Drew was mentioned by his former WWE name, Drew McIntyre.

Galloway left WWE back in 2014 and recently finished up with Impact Wrestling in February of this year.

Below are photos of Galloway in attendance tonight:


https://twitter.com/ClassicCatch84/status/848350629282144257

NXT TakeOver: Orlando Results & Discussion (4/1)

Eric Lynch
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WWE’s NXT TakeOver: Orlando aired live on Saturday, April 1st on the WWE Network at from the Amway Center.

– TakeOver: Orlando opens up with a shot of the arena, and we hear Triple H cutting a promo over the speakers. Triple H says the entire world is watching Orlando tonight, and tonight “we are home.”

– Eric Young, Killian Dain, Alexander Wolfe and Nikki Cross def. Tye Dillinger, Roderick Strong, Kassius Ohno and Ruby Riot: Ohno is replacing No Way Jose. Things start off with all eight competitors brawling through the ring. It comes down to Ruby and Nikki, and Nikki grabs her by the hair and slams her on the ring repeatedly. Ohno and Wolfe tag in, and Ohno drops him with a stiff right hand. Strong tags in and hits a series of suplexes and slams on Wolfe and Young. Dain tags in and turns the tides on Strong. Eric Young tags in and gets Strong in a Dragon Sleeper on the turnbuckle. Young follows up with a flying elbow off the middle rope for a two count. Young hits another flying elbow, this time off the top, but then Tye breaks up the pin. Young punches Dillinger off the apron, then punches Ohno off too. The aprons clear with everyone brawling, and Dillinger gets Young to himself in the ring and rains down on him with punches in the corner. Dillinger drops Young with a back body drop, then superkicks Dain. Cross jumps on the back of Dillinger, and Riot jumps on the back of Dain. Eventually Cross gets off and grabs Riot, and they brawl to the outside. Young hits a lariat on Strong at ringside, and in the ring Wolfe hits a big boot on Dillinger. Wolfe is the legal man, and he immediately follows up on the big boot and pins for the win.

– WWE Hall of Famers Edge and Beth Phoenix are shown sitting at ringside.

– Aleister Black def. Andrade “Cien” Almas: Black and Almas start off with a textbook collar-and-elbow tie up and go move-for-move on the mat in the opening minutes. Black whips Cien into the ropes and Cien takes the chance to relax for a minute. Black goes for a suicide dive, but changes his mind and waits for Cien to come back in the ring. Black hits a spinning heel kick and follows up with a side headlock. Cien backs Black up in the corner and follows up with chops and stomps. Cien controls the next few moments with offense until Black takes things outside and hits a moonsault onto Cien on the floor. Back in the ring, Cien comes back with several elbows and a boot in the face. Cien hits an armbar hanging over the top rope until the ref breaks it up. Cien comes off the top but Black catches him with a powerbomb for a two count. Cien comes back with another armbar, and follows up with some elbow strikes in the corner. Almas and Black are evenly matched offensively for the next few moments as they trade kicks, but Almas gets the upper hand and hits some running knee strikes in the corner. Almas hits a snap German suplex for a near-fall. Black comes back with a boot to the face, and follows up with a stiff spinning heel kick for the win.

– We get a look at Ember Moon backstage preparing for her match tonight.

– The Authors of Pain def. DIY & The Revival: This one is a triple threat elimination match for the Tag Team Titles. DIY sets up a table at ringside early on. The three teams are very evenly matched offensively in the opening minutes until The Authors appear to take control of things. Akam puts Gargano in a rack, until Gargano is able to get out and hit an enziguri on Akam. Gargano knocks Rezar off the apron, then tags in Ciampa. Ciampa unloads with offense and hits two German suplexes on Akam. Ciampa follows up with a running knee strike for a two count. Ciampa continues fighting both of the Authors, and eventually DIY assists them in putting Rezar through a table at ringside. Akam comes back and fights off his four opponents until Ciampa counters and powerbomb and tags in Dawson. Dawson and Gargano get Akam in a double submission hold, but Rezar finally gets up and breaks it up. The Revival ends up briefly joining forces with with DIY to take out the Authors, and then they quickly start brawling against each other. It comes down to Gargano and Dash in the ring, and they stop to hit double suicide dives on Akam and Rezar on the floor. A big superplex off the apron onto everyone on the ringside floor leads to The Authors hitting The Last Chapter on Ciampa in the ring for the elimination. The Authors double team Dash until The Revival comes back with assisted German suplexes. The Authors attempts to come back with a Last Chapter, but it gets reversed. The Authors powerbomb the Revival members in unison, an then hit the Super Collider shortly after for the win. The Authors and Paul Ellering celebrate with the Tag Titles after the bell.

– Asuka def. Ember Moon: Things start off with a back-and-forth striking sequence after the opening bell, and Ember gets the upper hand shortly after with an elbow that sends Asuka to the outside. Ember follows up with a splash off the turnbuckle on the floor, then throws Asuka back in the ring. Asuka dodges a cross body off the top and capitalizes with a Shining Wizard for a two count. Asuka follows up with kicks and attempts the Asuka Lock. Ember fights out and back drops Asuka. Asuka goes for the hip attack but Ember dodges it and hits a kick to the face. Ember follows up with a hurricanrana and a neckbreaker. Ember hits a dropkick and several more kicks before a knee to the face. Ember hits a fallaway slam, but Asuka comes back with palm strikes and they exchange blows in the middle of the ring. Ember drops Asuka, and Asuka gets back up and attempts a kick, but Ember catches her leg and hits a t-bone suplex for a two count. Ember goes up top but Asuka pushes the referee into the ropes and Ember falls down. Asuka follows up with a kick to the head for the win to retain the NXT Women’s Title.

– Drew McIntyre is shown sitting at ringside and he gets a nice pop from the crowd.

– We get a look at Shinsuka Nakamura backstage preparing for his title match up next.

– Bobby Roode def. Shinsuka Nakamura: Roode’s NXT Championship is on the line in this one. Roode and Nakamura start off cautiously, trading leg kicks. Nakamura tees off with some strikes early on and stomps on Roode in the corner, but Roode comes back with a bump off the apron that sends Nakamura crashing into the guard rail. Back in the ring, Roode takes control of things and keeps Nakamura grounded. Roode rains down elbows on Nakamura and puts him in another neck hold until the challenger fights his way up. Roode attempts a sleeper, but Nakamura gets out and drops Roode with a spinning heel kick. Nakamura lays into Roode with punches and kicks, then drapes Roode over the corner ropes for a running knee. Nakamura lays Roode down with his head hanging off the apron and hits a knee drop onto Roode that sends them both to the ringside floor. Back in the ring, Nakamura goes for a suplex but Roode elbows his way out. The trade strikes until Roode drops him with an elbow and both men are down. Roode is up first and starts working on Nakamura’s bad knee. Roode gets Nakamura in the Figure Four, but Nakamura gets out and attempts an armbar on Roode. Nakamura transitions Roode into a triangle choke, then back into an armbar as Roode tries to fight out. Roode finally reaches the ropes, but his arm is hurt bad. Roode recovers around ringside, and gets back in the ring to trade strikes with Nakamura. Roode gets frustrated and grabs the ring bell from ringside. The referee holds Roode back and Nakamura hits him with a kick to the head. Nakamura follows up with a suplex, but Roode comes back with one of his own. The crowd is really getting into the back-and-forth action. Roode goes for an implant DDT, but Nakamura spears him into the corner. Roode gets Nakamura in a front face lock and hops up on the turnbuckle, then hits a huge tornado implant DDT on Nakamura. Roode pins for the win to retain the NXT Championship. After the bell, Roode celebrates with his brand new NXT Title belt and shows it off all the way up the ramp. Roode yells “I told you” towards the ring as TakeOver: Orlando goes off the air.

The Miz Talks About Fan Reaction To His Wrestlemania Match Changing Since It Was Announced

Robert Lentini
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19

The Associated Press obtained a quote from The Miz during their yearly Wrestlemania story.  When rumors came out about the mixed-tag match between John Cena & Nikki Bella versus The Miz & Maryse, the reaction was overwhelmingly negative. There was speculation on who The Undertaker would face at Wrestlemania 33 in the months leading up to the event. Many thought that the best option would be for The Undertaker to face John Cena at Wrestlemania 33. During a promo on the February 28th episode of Smackdown, Cena even acknowledged this and said that he would rather be facing The Undertaker than The Miz at Wrestlemania 33.

The build to this year’s Wrestlemania has been one that has lacked a lot of buzz. Everyone gets excited for Wrestlemania, but many of the feuds felt like they were missing something. As things progressed, it turned out that the mixed-tag match was actually one of the more entertaining feuds on WWE programming. The perception towards the match has completely changed from when it was announced till now. John Cena, Nikki Bella, The Miz and Maryse have done a terrific job getting the WWE Universe invested in this storyline during the past several episodes of Smackdown.

The Miz on the fan’s reaction changing since the match was announced:

“I do whenever something is there and people are talking about it and making noise about it. Why deny the magic,” he asked. “It’s funny, when it was announced as a mixed-tag match, people were like, you’re kidding me. Cena deserves to go against the Undertaker, Miz deserves to go against the WWE champion. This is below them. And then, once it started, people started going, ‘Oh wait a second,’ people are telling me this is the match people are looking forward to most. People care.”

Chris Jericho’s Current WWE Run Is Coming To An End Soon

Robert Lentini
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Chris Jericho was interviewed by Chris Smith of Forbes recently. During the interview, Jericho commented on how much longer his current WWE run will last:

“We’re getting ready to put out a new Fozzy record, and I can’t do wrestling and music at the same time. So I think this [wrestling] run is pretty much winding down at this point.” That shouldn’t be too much of a surprise – Jericho announced Fozzy’s May tour dates three weeks ago – but Jericho makes it sound like this next break could be a long one: “It’s time to take a break from wrestling and work on some of these other things that have been on the back burner and are starting to come to fruition.”

Jericho also added that he is willing to come back to the WWE in the future:

“If there’s a tour of Japan or a tour of Australia, I’ll go if I’m free. If there’s a weekend I’m free, I’ll do it in Peoria or Lakeland, Florida. It doesn’t matter to me how big or small the shows are, because they all count. I still enjoy it, and when it’s time for me to come back, if that time comes and when that time comes, then I’ll come back the same way I always do.”

Jericho is also working on his fourth autobiography and still hosts his podcast Talk Is Jericho. Jericho has made a bunch of returns to the WWE and some of them have only been for house shows. While always excellent, Jericho’s current WWE runs has included some of his best work. Time will tell when Jericho’s current run comes to an end, but hopefully we get to see another one of his triumphant returns to the WWE in the near future.

Preview For Raw Women’s Championship Match, Footage Of Bayley Announcing Women’s Tournament

Robert Lentini
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3

WWE uploaded a preview of Raw Women’s Championship Fatal 4-Way Elimination Match that is taking place tomorrow night at Wrestlemania 33. Bayley will defend her title against Charlotte, Sasha Banks and Nia Jax.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcz1d_bJp6Q

The WWE has also uploaded a video of Bayley leading up to her match at Wrestlemania 33. In the video, Bayley informs Asuka that she has a signing during NXT TakeOver: Orlando and will unable to watch the event. Bayley assured Asuka that she will be rooting for her and will watch the event on her phone. Also in the video, footage was shown of Bayley announcing the 32-competitor Women’s Tournament that will air on the WWE Network this summer.

Goldberg Reveals Why He’s Been ‘Absolutely Miserable’ Since Returning To WWE

Staff
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RAW Universal Champion Bill Goldberg has had a memorable run with WWE since returning to the ring back at Survivor Series, but he told Edge & Christian this past week that he’s been “absolutely miserable” ever since.

Goldberg appeared on the first episode of the E&C Pod of Awesomeness podcast and said he doesn’t sleep well, always feels bloated and is stressed 24 hours a day. He said,

 

“I’ll be honest, I’m miserable. I’m absolutely miserable. Nobody get me wrong when I say I’ve been miserable throughout this, but I am. I’m miserable. I’m bloated 24 hours a day. I’m stressed 24 hours a day. I don’t sleep, but it’s a small price to pay.”

At 50 years old, it’s not easy staying in ‘Goldberg’ shape. He made the decision to wrestle again so his wife and son could see him perform in person, but he pays a high price to compete at the highest level in WWE and admits that it’s stressful living up to the expectation of fans expecting to see him looking like his WCW prime.

“I am nothing but a machine now. I get up in the morning. I eat. I train. I eat. It’s the toughest thing I ever embarked upon, guys,” he said, “I’m 13 years removed from the business. I can’t name a power wrestler who has come back 13 freaking years afterwards. And then, within 20 pounds of what he was back then.”

After a 12 year hiatus from the ring, Goldberg said he’s also had a hard time executing his legendary ring entrance.

“Well, I mean, let’s be honest, man. I forgot how to go through my pyro! I honestly, I swear to God, I actively, when I came back to the WWE, each and every time I went through Gorilla [position], I would remember another thing that I had forgotten in my preparation,” he said. “I throw my punches. I throw my kicks. I pull my hamstring throwing a kick! Throwing a kick! It’s ridiculous.”

Goldberg will defend the Universal Championship against Brock Lesnar this Sunday at WrestleMania 33 from Orlando, Florida.

Bobby Roode Talks About His Time In NXT & TNA

Robert Lentini
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4

Bobby Roode was recently interviewed by Ryan Dilbert of Bleacher Report. Roode was asked about his stint with the WWE in the early 2000’s. His first run with the WWE was unsuccessful, as he was relegated to untelevised matches and matches that aired on Sunday Night Heat or Velocity.

Roode on his first go around with the WWE:

“I was working hard to be noticed and to be seen,” Roode recalled of those days. “For whatever reason, it just wasn’t my time there. Instead of quitting or being discouraged, I went somewhere else and continued to try to live my dream. I was able to do that and make a name for myself in the process.”

Roode has spent the majority of his career in TNA wrestling. For those that watched TNA while he was there, it was obvious that he was star. However, TNA never had the audience that the WWE has and TNA never fully capitalized on his talent.

Roode on his time with TNA Wrestling:

“I got an opportunity there to work with a lot of great guys, to be in the ring with a lot of veterans, to just open my eyes and open my ears to learn from guys like Kurt Angle and Bully Ray and the Hardys,” Roode said. “You get five or 10 minutes or possibly jump in the car with them to ride to the next town for two to three hours and pick their brains. I used that opportunity a lot.”

Bobby Roode is now NXT Champion. He has his sights set on joining the main roster in the near future. Roode is defending his NXT Championship tonight at NXT TakeOver: Orlando against Shinsuke Nakamura. Many in the WWE Universe feel that the NXT events are often better than WWE PPVs. Roode wants to continue that tonight at NXT TakeOver: Orlando.

Roode on tonight’s NXT TakeOver:

“The NXT motto is to go out there and steal the show,” The Glorious One said. “That’s our goal—to go out there and open eyes and challenge the main-roster guys to try to do better than we did the night before. The NXT TakeOver: Orlando card has the opportunity to be the best TakeOver of all time. The challenge is there. Hopefully, we go in there and set the bar pretty high.”

You can check out the entire Bobby Roode interview on Bleacher Report by clicking here.

Nikki Bella Confirms She Is Taking Time Off After WrestleMania

Staff
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Nikki Bella has confirmed that she will be taking time off from WWE after Sunday’s WrestleMania 33 pay-per-view.

During a media interview on Saturday morning, Nikki revealed that she has a slight herniation in her neck and will be taking time to recover. For the past several weeks it’s been rumored that she will be working a very limited schedule in the future due to her ongoing neck issues.

Nikki Bella will team with longtime boyfriend John Cena against The Miz and Mayrse in one of the most anticipated matches on the card. Cena will also be on Hiatus after WrestleMania to film another movie (The Pact).

Here’s the footage of Nikki talking about her upcoming WWE hiatus:

New NXT Championship Belts To Be Unveiled At Takeover, Mauro Ranallo Update, Jericho Trolls

Staff
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– NXT General Manager William Regal has announced that new NXT Championship belts will be unveiled later tonight at Takeover: Orlando.

– SmackDown Live announcer Mauro Ranallo confirmed that he will not be at WrestleMania 33 this Sunday, but congratulated Jim Ross on the news that JR will be calling at least one match on the show.

https://twitter.com/mauroranallo/status/848208562228674560

– Chris Jericho announced on social media that his WrestleMania match with Kevin Owens is jeopardy due to an ankle injury. It’s April Fool’s Day, so appreciate the Jeritroll and drink it in, man.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSWJNXPlTTX/?taken-by=chrisjerichofozzy

Roman Reigns’ Fans Overflow Into Samoa Joe Signing Area At WrestleMania Axxess (Video/Photos)

Eric Lynch
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Roman Reigns’ VIP autograph signing event at WrestleMania Axxess in Orlando reportedly had fans lining up an hour and a half early. Recent RAW signee Samoa Joe didn’t attract as many fans at Axxess, and Reigns’ lines were so long that they used Samoa Joe’s autograph area for the overflow. Joe’s signing ended a half-hour early. Nikki Bella’s line also reportedly had fans waiting over an hour in advance.

The autograph sessions were at 8 AM on Saturday, just one day out from WrestleMania 33.

As previously noted, Reigns is currently the top merchandise seller of WWE’s full-time performers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSWBU7qDnKZ/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BSWYbXulS-Z/

Braun Strowman Says He Wants to Feud With The Undertaker & is Jealous of Roman Reigns

Staff
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Braun Strowman talked to The Observer News Enterprise recently. He spoke about being in his first ever WrestleMania match, being envious of Roman Reigns’ feud with The Undertaker and how he feels about Bray Wyatt’s run with the WWE Championship.

Here are some highlights of what Strowman said about:

Being in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal:

“I had no idea exactly 100 percent what was going to happen this past Monday. I’m excited to be a part of [the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal]. Any opportunity this company gives me, I take the ball and run with it. Any opportunity you get, you need to make the most of it, and that’s what I plan on doing.”

Wanting a program with The Undertaker:

“Being in the ring with The Undertaker — I don’t know how to put it in words. When his music hits, it makes every hair on your body stand up, and everyone in the arena stands up. I definitely want to see more of Taker. I want a program with Taker. I’m going to be selfish. I’m envious of Roman Reigns. That’s The Undertaker. That’s his yard. Who doesn’t want to have an opportunity to have to work with The Undertaker? There’s nothing like it. He’s the Phenom. I’m really hoping he wants to come back and do one more [match at WrestleMania]. The people want it, and I want it.”

Bray Wyatt’s WWE Championship run:

“He deserves it so much. That guy has worked so hard. He’s such an unbelievable talent, character and wrestler. He has everything. It’s about time they did that for him and let him run with the strap and let him be Bray Wyatt. He’s a main event talent and has been one ever since he walked in the door. When I was with the Wyatt family, I’ll hold that near and dear to my heart. They helped me get to where I am now with my wrestling ability, my talking ability and how I carry myself.”

WWE Announces 32-Competitor Women’s Tournament For This Summer

Robert Lentini
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WWE announced on Saturday that the first ever Women’s Tournament is taking place this summer. The announcement was made at the “WWE Reimagined” presentation held at a business partner summit in Orlando, Florida.  Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, Bayley, Alexa Bliss and Asuka were on hand for the presentation.

32 female competitors from 17 countries are set to compete in the tournament, which will air exclusively on the WWE Network.

Last year WWE saw tremendous success with the Cruiserweight Classic and the United Kingdom Championship tournament, both of which aired on the Network. Those events led to the creation of two new championship titles and the acquisition of many talented performers from across the globe.

More to come on this developing story.

Looking At Roman Reigns’ Strong Merchandise Sales

Robert Lentini
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The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has noted that Roman Reigns has been the top merchandise seller of all of the full time talent on the WWE roster and that there is nobody ready to take his place. There has been speculation about the WWE possibly turning Roman Reigns heel due to the negative reaction he has been receiving from WWE crowds. Even though the crowd reaction to Reigns is mostly negative, the WWE also believes that he gets the biggest reaction out of anyone in the locker room. Triple H recently did an interview with Sports Illustrated and discussed the fan reaction to Roman Reigns. It doesn’t appear that the WWE has any plans to turn Reigns heel and Triple H argues that he already is a heel.

Triple H on Roman Reigns turning heel:

“People can look at Roman Reigns and say, ‘The failed attempt that is Roman Reigns,’ but Roman Reigns sells tickets,” said Levesque. “Roman Reigns gets one of the loudest reactions every night, whether that reaction is a boo or whether that reaction is a cheer. The fans who say, ‘I don’t understand why they don’t turn Roman Reigns heel!’ Isn’t he already?

“If you believe what you believe, and you’re saying, ‘How can they not turn him heel? There is 70 percent of the crowd booing him out of the building!’ If that’s your belief, then isn’t he already the biggest heel we have? If 70 percent of that crowd is booing him, then he’s a heel. We’re just presenting him to you in a different way that makes you hate him.”

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

Discussion: What Is Your Favorite Wrestlemania Moment?

Robert Lentini
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There have been countless memorable moments that have taken place at Wrestlemania throughout out the years. 30 years ago, Hulk Hogan Body Slammed Andre the Giant. It is a moment that wrestling fans of that generation will never forget.

8 years ago Shawn Michaels wrestled The Undertaker in an all-time classic match. The following year at Wrestlemania 26, the two did it again and Shawn Michaels called it a career. For fans of Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker, the match between the two at Wrestlemania 25 will be something they always remember.

For younger fans, Daniel Bryan finally overcoming The Authority at Wrestlemania 30 is something they will never forget. Daniel Bryan defeated Triple H in the first match of Wrestlemania 30 and then went on to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in a Triple Threat match against Batista and Randy Orton. While the match might not have been anything memorable, the moment when Bryan won was incredible. Daniel Bryan connected with the WWE Universe in a way that I hadn’t seen since the days of the Attitude Era.

The Wrestlemania moment I will always remember was Bret Hart versus Stone Cold at Wrestlemania 13. I was almost 8 years old and I could barely comprehend what was going on. I just remember where I was when I watched that match and how I felt when the match was over. Bret Hart won the match, but Austin elected to pass out in a pool of his own blood rather than submit. I’ve since watched that match countless times.

There are tons of moments to choose from. When Shawn Michaels got his leg caught in the ropes during the ladder match between Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels at Wrestlemania X. When Owen Hart defeated Bret Hart at that same Wrestlemania. Some people believe that the match between Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat and the Macho Man Randy Savage was the best Wrestlemania match at Wrestlemania III.

Discussion: Everyone has a Wrestlemania moment or match that they always go back and watch. What is yours?

Diamond Dallas Page Remembers Dusty Rhodes During His Hall of Fame Speech

Robert Lentini
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Last night during the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, Diamond Dallas Page took some time to speak about the impact “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes had on his life. Page became emotional during the speech but was still able to deliver an excellent Dusty Rhodes impression.

Page was also interviewed after his speech and spoke more about how much Dusty Rhodes helped him throughout his wrestling career.

Big Week For Cheap Heat Podcast, New Bring It To The Table (Video)

Robert Lentini
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ESPN’s Cheap Heat podcast has some big names on their podcast this week live from Wrestlemania 33. Bray Wyatt, The Club, Carmella, Roman Reigns, Paul Heyman, Charlotte Nikki Bella and more were all guests on the podcast. You can check out the show by clicking here or subscribing to them on iTunes.

As you know, Peter Rosenberg hosts Bring It to The Table as well as the Cheap Heat podcast. WWE has uploaded a new episode of It to The Table filmed from the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, FL, site of Sunday’s WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV.

Seth Rollins Gets Support From Fans At Wrestlemania Axxess, Preview Video For Tonight’s NXT TakeOver: Orlando

Robert Lentini
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Seth Rollins was a part of Wrestlemania Axxess this week and signed some autographs for WWE fans. Rollins stated that he enjoys spending time with fans, even if it is only for a few seconds. Rollins also met Bayley’s biggest fan, Izzy at Axxess and you can check that out by clicking here. 

NXT TakeOver: Orlando airs tonight on the WWE Network. Below are the matches currently listed on the card.

Aleister Black vs Andrade “Cien” Almas

Tye Dillinger, No Way Jose, Roderick Strong & Ruby Riot vs SAnItY

NXT Tag Team Championship Match: The Authors of Pain (c) vs The Revival vs DIY

NXT Women’s Championship Match: Asuka (c) vs Ember Moon

NXT Championship Match: Bobby Roode (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura

The WWE uploaded a video preview for tonight’s NXT TakeOver.

New Tag Team Champions Crowned On Impact Wrestling (Videos)

Scott Lazara
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The Latin American Xchange captured the vacant Impact Tag Team Championships on tonight’s Impact Wrestling episode, winning a Fatal 4 Way over The Decay, Garza Jr. & Laredo Kid and Reno Scum.

LAX was represented by Santana and Ortiz. The current version of the stable includes Homicide and Diamante as wrestlers, plus manager Konnan.

The Impact Tag Team Championships were declared vacant earlier this month after The Hardys left the promotion while champions.

Below are photos and video from the match on Impact:

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

Paul Heyman’s Agency Signs Deal With Music Label, Cena & Bella Backstage Video At WWE Hall of Fame

Robert Lentini
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Complex Sports is reporting that Paul Heyman’s agency, Looking4Larry, has signed a deal with independent record label Reviver Entertainment Group. Reviver Entertainment Group is headed by second generation music impresario David Ross. Heyman and his Looking4Larry partners will produce and direct music videos for Reviver artists. They will also handle introducing them to the public and promoting them.

On The Bella Twins YouTube channel, a video was uploaded of John Cena and Nikki Bella sharing a moment backstage during the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony. Cena and Bella will face The Miz & Maryse tomorrow night at Wrestlemania 33.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzQzSDJbnf0

WWE Hall of Fame Backstage Videos w/ Jim Cornette, DDP, Teddy Long & Eric Bischoff

Robert Lentini
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Jim Cornette is ready to induct The Rock’n’ Roll Express into the Hall of Fame

Diamond Dallas Page feel unstoppable before the Hall of Fame ceremony:

Teddy Long is speechless before being inducted into the the WWE Hall of Fame:

Eric Bischoff is happy to share in Diamond Dallas Page’s big Night:

Beth Phoenix Backstage Videos During WWE Hall of Fame, Tony Chimel Interrupts Her Speech

Robert Lentini
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Beth Phoenix was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Saturday night from Orlando. WWE has uploaded a few backstage videos of Beth Phoenix and current WWE Superstars discussing the impact she made on the wrestling business. WWE Superstar Natalya inducted Beth Phoenix into the Hall of Fame during the ceremony.

Beth Phoenix also offered up a tribute to her husband, former WWE Superstar and Hall of Famer Edge. Tony Chimel made a cameo appearance and announced the Rated-R Suuuuuuuuperstar’s name like only he can.

New Day Reveals Wrestlemania 33 Set (Video), Kurt Angle Highlights From WWE HOF Speech

Robert Lentini
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The WWE has uploaded a video previewing the pyro and set for Wrestlemania 33. Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods and Big E introduced the set. The New Day are the official hosts of Wrestlemania 33 which airs tomorrow night.

Last night, Kurt Angle was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2017. Angle broke out all the hits during his speech. The WWE uploaded a video highlighting some of the best moments from Kurt Angle during the Hall of Fame ceremony.

PROGRESS: Orlando Results

Jake Skudder
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Here are the results from PROGRESS’ United States debut event: #ProgressOrlando. The show took place at the Orlando Live Events Centre to a crowd of around 1,200 fans.

Zack Sabre Jr b. Jimmy Havoc – Zack Sabre Jr took the win via pinfall against longtime friend and longest reigning PROGRESS Champion in company history; Jimmy Havoc

James Drake b. Spud – Drake records his third straight win in a PROGRESS ring, after the match he continued to attack Spud 

Jinny b. Toni Storm – Natural Progression Series finalist Jinny took the win to give her the momentum heading in to the final to crown the first ever PROGRESS Women’s Champion

South Pacific Power Trip (TK Cooper & Travis Banks) w/ Dahlia Black b. Shane Strickland & Sami Callihan – The SPPT continue their dominant form with an impressive win over Strickland/Callihan. Travis Banks looks set to have his biggest year ever and there is a good chance that he wins the Super Strong Style 16 tournament in July/August

PROGRESS Atlas Championship Match – Matt Riddle b. Trent Seven – Riddle applied the Bromission in something of an upset. Many were predicting that Trent take the ATLAS title as the British Strong Style stable look to dominate the PROGRESS title scenes.

WWE United Kingdom Championship Match – Tyler Bate b. Mark Andrews – Bate records his first championship defence outside of a WWE/NXT ring against an impressive Mark Andrews, certainly one for the history books

PROGRESS Championship Match – Pete Dunne b. Mark Haskins – Who is left for Pete Dunne to defeat? After this submission win against Mark Haskins the well has run pretty dry in the PROGRESS Championship scene, possibly a chance for a new main eventer to rise?

 

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