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“Beyond Proud To Be Here” – Johnny Gargano on WWE Return

Robert Lentini
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Johnny Gargano made his shocking return to WWE on tonight’s RAW after leaving the promotion in late 2021. His promo was interrupted by Theory, who was in “The Way” faction with Gargano in NXT.

Theory was disrespectful towards Johnny and suggested that he carry his bags now that he is a part of the main roster. The 25-year-old wanted a high-five from Johnny Wrestling but got a Superkick to the face instead.

Gargano Comments on WWE Return

Following this week’s edition of RAW, Gargano was interviewed backstage in a WWE Digital Exclusive. The former NXT Champion said that he was still at a loss for words following his return and was concerned that people weren’t going to remember him after being away for so long.

Gargano added that even though he accomplished a lot in NXT, there was still a part of him that was a nervous wreck leading up to his return. Gargano also discussed why he chose to return to the company after he stepped away nine months ago:

“I said that I came back for a lot of different reasons, but first of all I wanted to be Intercontinental Champion, United States Champion, WWE Champion, and I want to wrestle at WrestleMania. There is only one place you can do that, and that is here in WWE. That is why I came back. That is why I am beyond proud to be here.”

Bonus: ‘Baby Wrestling’ Also Reacts

Johnny noted that there was a “Baby Wrestling!” chant during his promo from the WWE Universe and that his son will appreciate that when he gets older.

Kayla Braxton Blasts Gay Ex-WWE Employee who Mocked her Coming Out

Thomas Lowson
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In March last year, Kayla Braxton came out as bisexual, saying that she chooses being over having to choose between men and women.

In response, Braxton received a ton of support from those both in the industry and from fans, who accepted who she is.

Not everyone was as supportive however, including someone who worked for WWE at the time.

The Ex-Superstar

Not long after her public coming out, Braxton deactivated her Twitter account, with many believing it was due to harassment.

It turns out that it wasn’t just some fans who had an issue with her coming out, but an ex-Superstar decided that it was a point of ridicule.

Taking to Twitter this week, Braxton said that an ex-WWE employee, who is also gay, mocked her announcement and “made jokes about my revelation.”

Braxton would get the last laugh though, as she added that the ex-Superstar not only has been released but is “the main character in my new fav movie airing on TMZ.”

Braxton’s tweet, which has since been deleted, read:

“A little over a year ago, I came out publicly about my sexuality. (For those who are just tuning in, I like both) Around the time I came out, a former coworker who’s also gay, made jokes about my revelation. Anyway – he’s now the main character in my new fav movie airing on TMZ.”

Jake Atlas

Braxton didn’t name who she was referring to, but many people believe it is Jake Atlas.

In February 2018, Atlas came out as gay, and was released by WWE last year.

This week, TMZ shared footage from Atlas’ arrest in May after an incident with his boyfriend that led to the ex-Superstar being charged with battery.

The charges against Atlas were dropped in June.

Jake Atlas Insults Boyfriend in Bizarre Arrest Video

WWE Official Adam Pearce Requests Information About Kidnapped RAW Star

Robert Lentini
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WWE official Adam Pearce is determined to find a WWE Superstar that was kidnapped during this week’s episode of RAW.

The Miz and Ciampa battled United States Champion Bobby Lashley and AJ Styles in a tag team match tonight on the red brand. The action spilled out of the ring and AJ connected with a Phenomenal Forearm and leaned against the barricade for a breather. A mysterious man appeared behind AJ and grabbed him but security quickly broke it. The man was then escorted out of the arena and the match continued.

The Miz capitalized on the distraction and beat down Styles outside the ring. He then leaned up against the barricade for a moment and Dexter Lumis showed up. With a crazed look in his eyes, Dexter dragged The Miz all the way up the stairs and out of the Scotiabank Arena. The tag team match ended in a no contest, but Lashley opted to level Ciampa with a Spear anyway.

After RAW went off the air, Adam Pearce took to Twitter to get the word out that The Miz is nowhere to be found. If you or anyone close to you have seen The Miz, please contract WWE official Adam Pearce with the information.

Backstage Update On Johnny Gargano’s Return To WWE On RAW

Robert Lentini
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Johnny Gargano made his surprising return to WWE on this week’s edition of RAW.

He appeared during the final hour of RAW, just a few moments after The Miz was kidnapped by another returning NXT star, Dexter Lumis. Johnny Wrestling made his way to the ring to a great reaction from the Toronto crowd and delivered a promo on he decided to return to the company after nine months away.

The 35-year-old stated that he wanted to become the Intercontinental Champion, the United States Champion, the WWE Champion, and perform at WrestleMania. He added that he wanted to teach his newborn son to chase after his dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. Money in the Bank winner Theory then interrupted and Johnny hit him with a Superkick to the face to end the segment.

In a new report from Fightful Select, Johnny’s name did not appear on any rundowns before the show as WWE wanted to keep the return a secret. Most of the talent was unaware Johnny was in the Scotiabank Arena until a few minutes before he made his way to the ring.

Fightful added that WWE was patient and respected Gargano’s wishes for time off. Johnny’s wife, former NXT Superstar Candice LeRae, gave birth to their son six months ago. WWE felt they had a significantly higher chance of bringing Johnny back to the promotion after Vince McMahon departed the company and Triple H took over creative.

There were no “advanced conversations” between Johnny and All Elite Wrestling during his free agency, despite several people pushing for the promotion to sign him. IMPACT Wrestling was reportedly never seriously considered as a potential landing spot for Gargano.

Watch: Edge Makes Massive Career Announcement After Raw In Toronto

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE Hall of Famer Edge has made a big career announcement and revealed the intention to take retirement from in ring action next year.

This week’s episode of Raw was held in Toronto. It saw the Rated R Superstar battling against Damian Priest in a one-on-one match in the main event of the show.

Edge picked up the victory in this match with a spear. The rest of the Judgement day then attacked the wrestling veteran. Beth Phoenix made the save to end the show.

After the broadcast ended, the former world champion addressed the fans. He first mentioned how his comeback started in Toronto when he hit a spear on Elias during SummerSlam 2019.

Edge Confirms Plans For His Retirement

The Hall of Famer thanked all the fans. Edge then revealed his intention to retire from in ring action when WWE visits Toronto again:

“I can’t wait to hopefully come back one last time here in Toronto. I’ve been looking at the calendar, we usually come here in August. So next August I plan on seeing each and every one of you. And in a perfect world, we all say goodbye to each other that night”

Things can obviously change between now and then but Edge has made it clear that he isn’t planning to continue his wrestling career for long.

Edge made a surprise return to WWE at the 2020 Royal Rumble after nearly nine years away from the ring.

Former Raw General Manager Returning Next Week

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE Hall of Famer and former Raw General Manager Kurt Angle has been announced for an appearance on next week’s episode of the Monday night show.

Next week’s episode of the Red Branded Show will be held from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh. It’s the hometown of the Olympic Gold Medallist.

There is no word yet on what Angle will be doing on the show. It’s likely that he gets involved in a storyline similar to how a returning Trish Stratus was confronted by Bayley and her stable on Raw tonight.

The former world champion was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017. He was then appointed the new General Manager of Raw.

Kurt Angle also made his in-ring return for the company during this run. He originally replaced Roman Reigns in a match and teamed with Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose during the 2017 TLC event.

The veteran went on to have multiple matches after this. He competed in bouts such as the traditional Survivor Series elimination match and more.

This run ended with Angle competing in a retirement match at WrestleMania 35. He faced Baron Corbin and lost the bout.

His last WWE TV appearance came earlier this year when Kurt sent a video message to John Cena congratulating him on the 20th anniversary of his WWE debut in June.

Johnny Gargano Returns to WWE on Raw

Andrew Ravens
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In the third hour of Monday’s WWE Raw, Johnny Gargano walked out to the ring to a big ovation. 

Gargano cut a promo about his accomplishments in NXT before telling a story about how he wondered for a long time if he even wanted to do this still. Gargano recalled having big dreams as a kid and becoming the Intercontinental and WWE Champion. He said he can never fail if he bets on himself, and that’s what he is doing. He said that he’s back in WWE and just getting started. 

The Way Reunion

gargano theory

Theory walked out and said a lot has happened in the last nine months. Gargano said it’s great to see how much Theory has changed. Theory said he’s on his way to becoming the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and brought up everything he’s accomplished. Theory said everything he’s done is everything Gargano has dreamed of doing. Theory thanked him for what he did for him in NXT, but noted that he’s now the veteran, and Gargano is now the rookie. Theory said Gargano can get behind him or go away. Theory wanted a high five, and Gargano super kicked him to end the segment. 

Following an assault by Grayson Waller intended to put Gargano out of commission on television, he ended his tenure in WWE NXT in December of last year as he decided to not re-sign with the company. 

Ahead of the birth of his first child, Quill, Gargano took time off to be with his wife, Candice LeRae. He had previously teased that he “caught the itch” to pick up wrestling once more and has participated in meet-and-greet events.

Gargano previously stated that he still had unfinished business with the WWE, but he also believed that all of his options are open to him. Therefore, he had not yet made up his mind about what to do next and had remained a free agent. 

It was recently reported that following Triple H being put into charge of talent relations and creative, he wanted to bring Gargano back and put Shawn Michaels up to the task to get it done. 

WWE RAW Results (8/22/22): Johnny Gargano Arrives, Bayley Returns To The Ring, Edge vs. Damian Priest

Robert Lentini
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This week’s WWE RAW aired live from the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada. The Rated-R Superstar battled Damian Priest in the main event. In addition to the takeaways below, WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle was announced for next week’s edition of RAW live from Pittsburgh.

WWE RAW Results (8/22)

  • IYO SKY & Dakota Kai def. Asuka & Alexa Bliss to advance to the finals of the Women’s Tag Team Tournament
  • Finn Balor def. Dolph Ziggler
  • Kevin Owens def. Chad Gable
  • Bayley def. Aliyah
  • AJ Styles & Bobby Lashley vs. The Miz & Ciampa ended in a no contest
  • Edge def. Damian Priest

Here are the takeaways from this week’s WWE RAW:

Riddle & Rollins Brawled

Riddle and Seth Rollins were shown brawling backstage to kick off the show. The brawl went through the crowd and all the way to the ringside area. Riddle leaped off the barricade and knocked Rollins and a bunch of security down. The brawl continued up the entrance ramp until WWE security broke it up.

Trish Stratus Returned

Trish Stratus made her way to the ring to a great reaction from the crowd. She thanked the crowd as they chanted “welcome back!”. Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY interrupted as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Bayley asked why Trish was at RAW and she said she was there to support Edge. IYO then cartoonishly laughed at Trish and said she didn’t like her after claiming to be a fan. RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair joined the party and trash talk continued. Bianca said that Bayley should be thanking Trish instead of insulting her. Alexa Bliss and Asuka interrupted and it led to the Women’s Tag Team Championship tournmament match.

IYO SKY & Dakota Kai Advanced In The Women’s Tag Team Championship Tournament

Alexa Bliss & Asuka battled Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky in the semifinals of the Women’s Tag Team Championship Tournament. Asuka and Alexa controlled the action early and sent Kai and Sky out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial.

When RAW returned, Alexa hit a Senton on Iyo for a two count. Asuka tagged and had a stare down with Iyo before the two WWE Superstars circled each other in the ring. Dakota tagged in and beat The Empress of Tomorrow down and unloaded several kicks to the face.

Asuka responded with some kicks of her own and tagged in Alexa. Asuka hit Dakota with a Running Bulldog and Alexa went for the cover but Kai kicked out at the last moment. Alexa knocked Dakota out of the ring and then leaped onto her off the ring apron. Tamina and Dana Brooke were shown watching backstage. They were eliminated from the tournament in the first round. Kai and Sky battled back and isolated Alexa in the ring as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Bliss tagged in and climbed to the top rope. Alexa went for Twisted Bliss but Dakota got her knees up. Iyo followed it up with a Dropkick to the face that knocked Bliss out of the ring. Asuka tagged in and Kai went for her finishing kick but The Empress of tomorrow dodged it. Asuka applied the Asuka Lock but didn’t realize that Iyo tagged herself in. Iyo broke the hold on Dakota and rolled Asuka up for the pinfall victory. Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai advanced to the finals of the Women’s Tag Team Championship tournament.

Finn Balor def. Dolph Ziggler

The Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and Rhea Ripley approached Dolph Ziggler backstage. Balor accused Dolph of latching himself onto younger superstars to get ahead. Dolph slapped him in the face and called him a little bitch before making his way to the ring. Rhea Ripley accompanied Balor to the ring for the match and Finn had new entrance music. Finn controlled the action early as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Dolph connected with an elbow to the midsection for a two count. Balor connected with a Powerbomb and went for the cover but Ziggler kicked out at two. Rhea shouted at the referee to count faster as the match continued. Dolph responded with a Fameasser but Finn kicked out at two. Rhea hit Ziggler with a cheap shot and Finn followed it up with the 1916. Balor delivered the Coup de Grace for the pinfall victory.

Kevin Owens vs. Chad Gable

Chad Gable battled Kevin Owens tonight on RAW and Otis was ringside. Gable issued an Open Challenge and KO answered. The action started off back and forth. Owens looked to deliver a Powerbomb on the ring apron but Gable countered into a Back Body Drop. Owens crashed to the floor outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Owens sent Gable to a corner with a German Suplex and followed it up with a Cannonball against the turnbuckle. Owens connected with a Pop-Up Powerbomb for the pinfall victory. After the match, Otis tried to attack but KO fought him off. Owens hit Otis with a Stunner and then Powerbombed Gable on top of him.

Bayley def. Aliyah

Aliyah got a great reaction from her hometown crowd and got emotional. Bayley returned to the ring in her first TV match in over a year. She performed at a live event over the weekend. Aliyah got in some offense early but The Role Model quickly took control of the match. Aliyah launched Bayley out of the ring and posed for the crowd. Aliyah responded with a flurry of punches in the corner of the ring. Bayley battled back and hit the Rose Plant for the pinfall victory in a sloppy match.

Dexter Lumis Kidnapped The Miz

AJ Styles and Bobby Lashley battled The Miz and Ciampa in a tag team match. Styles and Lashley dominated the action early. Bobby showed off his power and launched Ciampa onto The Miz outside the ring. The Miz grabbed his knee in pain as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Ciampa and The Miz were back in control. Ciampa connected with a slam and Miz tagged in. The Miz got AJ in a Headlock in the middle of the ring as Lashley pleaded for a tag on the ring apron. Ciampa launched AJ into the barricade outside the ring. Miz and Ciampa gave themselves a round of applause on the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Ciampa got Styles in another Headlock. AJ escaped and tagged in the United States Champion. Lashley sent Miz and Ciampa to opposite corners of the ring and delivered a couple of Splashes. Bobby brought Ciampa to the outside and launched him into the ring post.

Lashley set up for the Spear but Miz dragged Ciampa away. Bobby chased after them and decked Miz with a Clothesline. As Bobby was getting back into the ring, Ciampa caught him in the ropes and hit a DDT. Ciampa went for the Fairytale Ending but Lashley blocked it. Bobby then delivered a Spear and went for the cover but Miz broke it up.

AJ knocked Miz out of the ring and leveled him with a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles leaned up against the barricade and someone grabbed him. Security took the person away before The Miz then leaned up against the barricade. Dexter Lumis showed up with a helmet on. He took the helmet off and dragged The Miz away with a psychotic look on his face. Ciampa then got hit with a Spear after the match ended in a no contest.

Johnny Gargano Arrives On WWE RAW, Theory Confronts Him

Johnny Gargano made his WWE return tonight on RAW. He made his way to the ring to a great reaction from the Toronto crowd. They chanted “Johnny Wrestling!” as he stood in the ring. Johnny noted that it has been 9 months since he’s been in a wrestling ring and he needs to remind himself how to do this.

Gargano introduced himself as a former NXT Champion, three-time North American Champion, and former tag champion. Johnny noted that he won the tag titles in this building. Johnny claimed that he wondered if he even wanted to do this anymore for a bit. He said he wanted to become IC Champ, US Champ, WWE Champ and wrestle at WrestleMania, and wanted to teach his son that even impossible dreams come true. Theory interrupted and we a The Way reunion from NXT.

Theory boasted about already accomplishing all of Gargano’s dreams as the crowd gave him the “what?!” treatment. Theory called the fans idiots and suggested that Johnny carry his bags for him. Johnny leveled Theory with a Superkick and posed for the crowd on the entrance ramp to end the segment.

Edge def. Damian Priest

Edge battled Damian Priest in the main event of this week’s episode of WWE RAW. Beth Phoenix was in the front row for the match. The Rated-R Superstar knocked Damian out of the ring to start off the action. Priest responded with a shoulder tackle but Edge sent him flying out of the ring once again. Damian paced around ringside for a bit as the crowd loudly chanted for the hometown hero Edge.

Back in the ring, Edge sent Damian to the corner and beat him down. The action spilled to the outside once again and Edge connected with a Powerbomb on top of the barricade. Damian then fell into the timekeeper’s area as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Edge and Damian went for a big boot at the same time. They both connected and collapsed the canvas. Damian brought Edge out of the ring and Powerbombed him on the ring apron. Damian followed it up with a Razor’s Edge through the announce table as RAW went to a break.

Back from the commercial break, Edge hit a Hurricanrana off the top rope and sent Damian down to the canvas. Edge went for a Spear but Damian countered with a big boot to the face for a near fall. Priest followed it up with an elbow to the face but Edge responded with the Impaler for a near fall.

Edge accidentally knocked into referee Charles Robinson and he took a big bump out of the ring. Edge broke off a piece of a steel chair and locked in a Crossface but there was no referee. The Rated-R hit an insane Canadian Destroyer and followed it up with a Spear for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Edge went to hit Damian with the con-chair-to but Rhea broke it up with a low blow. Finn Balor then delivered the Coup de Grace to Edge. Finn went to hit Edge with the con-chair-to but Beth Phoenix ripped the chair out of his hands. Beth dared Rhea and Balor to come at her but Judgment Day retreated to close the show.

Road Dogg Returns To WWE, Key NXT Figure May Be Back As Well

Andrew Ravens
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Road Dogg is back in the saddle in WWE.Brian James is returning to an executive position, as first reported by PWinsider. The Attitude Era legend and DX alum is backstage at Monday’s Raw from Toronto.

Road Dogg will take over as Senior Vice President of Live Events, a position held by Jeff Jarrett until this week, per Wrestlevotes.

There is said to be another key hire in the works.

Triple H’s Team Continues To Expand

Triple H

According to Fightful, WWE has had an interest in bringing Katz back into the fold after he was let go this past January. While with the company, he was an integral figure creatively for the NXT brand for almost seven years. 

The report noted they’ve “heard that Katz is expected back if he isn’t already, and had remained close with several in NXT. There were some rumors last month that he could already have been back in the fold, but if not, the interest was already there on WWE’s end.”

Katz has been hosting a podcast with Road Dogg since being let go by WWE. He appeared in Wrestling Society X as Fabian Kaelin, and in TNA as Minion. He was also part of Kane and Daniel Bryan’s anger management skits. 

image 36

Road Dogg had been working as the head of creative for SmackDown until he resigned from that role because, in his words, Vince McMahon’s work ethic “tapped me out.” Road Dogg then went to NXT, where he worked under Triple H before being let go this past January.

Kevin Nash Tried To Get The Undertaker To Join the nWo

Joey Galizia
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Kevin Nash reveals what WWE legend he wanted to jump ship to WCW, and join the now deceased company’s top faction, the New World Order (nWo).

The Hall of Famer was a guest on his old boss Eric Bischoff’s 83 Weeks podcast to discuss all things WCW, which is where the former world champion revealed how he had talks with the Undertaker about changing sides during the height of the Monday Night Wars.

Nash states that his pitch to Taker was that he had no bargaining power in WWE as long as he remained under the Deadman gimmick.

“The Undertaker was the one that I was trying to get. That was the one and I’m not saying – I just told him ‘You gotta switch up your gimmick man.’ I said ‘You’ve got no bargaining power whatsoever as long as you stay in that Undertaker gimmick.”

After a temporary hiatus Undertaker would return to WWE as the iconic American Badass character, a completely different tase from the Phenom. Nash says he doesn’t credit himself for Taker’s gimmick change, but does acknowledge that the character was more likely to succeed outside of WWE.

“I’m not saying that made him turn into the American Badass, I’m just saying that American Badass you can take pretty much wherever you wanna go. They had to pay those guys money, if they wanted to keep them they had to pay them.”

On the same episode Bischoff revealed his fantasy booking plans for Undertaker had he joined WCW, which would have seen him oppose the nWo rather than join it. You can read about that here.

Nash also discussed this topic on the latest edition of his Kliq This podcast. The big man was asked about Shawn Michaels potentially being the third-man, an idea that Nash couldn’t even really wrap his head around due to Shawn being the world champion in WWE at the time.

“Shawn just got the world title in the WWE so he’s not coming f***ing anywhere. Two years in after he had dropped it I made a push to get him in but by then they were giving guaranteed money. I thought Taker was a great one. I tried to get Mark to come over.”

He then explained how Bischoff wanted it to look like WWE was invading WCW, so Hulk Hogan being the third-man was the perfect option.

“The thing with Hulk was that Eric’s idea was that he wanted it to look like the WWE was invading Turner. We’re going back and forth with the skits and all this other sh*t…there was nobody that was more branded as WWF (WWE) than the yellow and red Hulk Hogan. “

You can check out Nash’s full quotes below.

(Please credit Sescoops if any quotes are used)

Road Dogg Calls AEW TV Production ‘Horrible’

Jon Fuentes
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Road Dogg is not a fan of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and their TV production style.

The WWE Hall Of Famer was a guest on Konnan’s “Keepin’ It 100” podcast recently, where he discussed AEW and their progress as a young promotion. Specifically, Road Dogg talked about AEW’s production style, which he called “horrible.”

“The production of the show, not how you produce and execute the creative, but the production of the show is horrible. I have been very, very open to saying that.

“From a television point of view, and you can not like me for saying it, you can not like me for whatever you want to not like me for, but WWE is good TV.

“I think you could bring, I know I could bring, that good TV and execute it from a production and a camera standpoint to them. I just think they have too many people.

“I lose track of who all they are, They don’t focus on one. They tell the long term story, but the only reason they do that is because each guy’s only on TV every four weeks.”

Road Dogg

Road Dogg, real name Brian James, isn’t the only professional wrestling veteran to have some harsh criticisms for AEW. Eric Bischoff’s relationship with president Tony Khan has soured over the past several months for his own criticisms.

However, James seems to be approaching his analysis of AEW from a different perspective. He seems to be open to bringing his talents to the company as an official, helping it grow and improve.

James has said numerous times, he’s surprised that Khan hasn’t reached out to him for a job yet. With over 30 years of experience in the industry as a competitor, producer, and writer, James would certainly bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

https://youtu.be/of67CpXv2TA

Quotes via WrestlingNews.Co

Spoiler on a Big Angle Planned for Tonight’s WWE Raw

Andrew Ravens
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Triple H has a notable angle planned for tonight’s episode of WWE Raw as Fightful Select has learned of some additional early plans for the event.

It was said that WWE has brought in several extras for an angle that will feature riot police. This is believed to be something for Dexter Lumis as he continues to invade Raw. It was said the angle is for the police to keep him out. 

Dexter Lumis’ Push

Dexter Lumis on Raw

Since returning to WWE a few weeks ago, Lumis tried to jump the barricade and attack AJ Styles but was stopped by security. There was also a car wreck backstage at the arena. 

Riddle, Lashley, Theory, Miz, Street Profits, MVP, Omos, and Alpha Academy are all set to at least be in town for the show but haven’t been announced yet.

WWE has previously announced Damian Priest vs. Edge, WWE Hall Of Famer Trish Stratus appearing, and YO Sky & Dakota Kai vs. Alexa Bliss & Asuka in the semifinal match of the Women’s Tag Team Title Tournament.

It should be noted Bryan Alvarez of F4Wonline.com reports WWE is making another change to the Women’s Tag Team Title tournament.

PWInsider reports that Beth Phoenix is in town for Raw so she could make an appearance to aid her husband, Edge, in his match if there is outside interference by Finn Balor and Rhea Ripley. 

Hip-Hop Superstar Cardi B Tweets About Her Love For Edge and Lita

Joey Galizia
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Cardi B is a big fan of WWE, and an even bigger fan of two WWE Hall of Famers.

The 29-year-old rap sensation took to Twitter to shout out two of the company’s greatest superstars, Edge and Lita. The duo’s relationship was covered on the A&E biography about Edge that recently aired over the weekend.

Cardi writes, “I used to love them….they was such a sexy ass couple …This was truly my wwe era …even tho I was a Trish Stratus girl I used to love this couple.”

Edge and Lita’s relationship on-screen included a live-sex celebration that scored WWE one of their biggest television ratings of the year. However, the relationship quietly ended as their on-screen appearances together eventually faded away.

As for Cardi, this isn’t the first time she has tweeted about her love of pro-wrestling, specifically WWE. Her recent hit “Hot Sh*t” pays homage to the late Jimmy Superfly Snuka, and got her conversing online with Snuka’s daughter Tamina, as well as Natalya. Another of Cardi’s hit songs, “Up,” was used as the theme for SummerSlam 2021 from Las Vegas.

Jake Atlas Insults Boyfriend in Bizarre Arrest Video

Thomas Lowson
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In May this year, former WWE SUperstar Jake Atlas was arrested and charged with assault following an incident with his boyfriend. 

At the time, it was reported that Atlas had been drinking and his partner had arrived to collect him, and refused Atlas’ offer to stay out and drink with him. 

Atlas was also said to be enraged that his boyfriend has been showing “half more attention” to a mutual female friend of the couple.

The Arrest

This week, TMZ Sports released the police video from the time of Atlas’ arrest. 

In the video, the wrestler calls himself an “international trained Superstar” and that he has worked “across the world.”

Speaking about his boyfriend, Atlas said that he is a “nobody,” and that he is “terrible at sex.”

“He is a nobody. He is a f***ing b**ch ass. A f***ing p**sy.”

Jake Atlas.

The domestic violence case against Atlas was dropped in June. 

In a statement after his arrest, Atlas said he was “100% not proud of” his actions and admitted to alcohol abuse. 

Atlas After WWE

Atlas signed with WWE in October 2019, but wouldn’t make his in-ring debut until the April 1, 2020, NXT, in a loss to Dexter Lumis. 

On August 6, 2021, Atlas was among several released by NXT as part of ‘budget cuts.’

The following month, Atlas competed at Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor XII, losing to fellow NXT-alum Taylor Rest.

On the January 7, 2022 AEW Rampage, Atlas made his televised debut for the promotion in a loss to Adam Cole. 

Atlas would suffer a knee injury during the match and was terminated from his AEW contract in June.

Jake Atlas Arrested, Charged With Domestic Assault

Eddie Kingston On His Feud With Chris Jericho: “I Learned What It Was To Be A Snake Backstage”

Joey Galizia
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For the last two years Eddie Kingston has been rising to the top of the AEW card. The Mad King recently finished up a feud with former world champion Chris Jericho, one that carried over for months and ultimately ended with a barbed wire everywhere match that received mixed reviews from fans and analysts.

Kingston and Jericho’s rivalry was the main subject of his latest interview with Under The Ring. The New York native was not shy of giving himself some criticism for his work against the Demo God, nor did he hold back on his experience working with the future hall of famer.

“Oh I hated them all, I hated every single one of them,” said Kingston on his matches with Jericho. “I don’t like any of my work plus I don’t like Chris. Being in the ring with him was a headache, it was seven months of a headache but I’m proud that it’s over, for now. Knowing Chris, [he’ll] probably do something to get me mad and we’ll probably get back in there.”

It should be noted that Kingston always enjoys blurring the lines of reality in his interviews, but he also isn’t someone who tells too many lies. He continued taking shots at Jericho by saying that all he learned from the feud was how to be a snake backstage.

“Did I learn a lot? Yeah, I learned what it was to be a snake backstage like Chris. I learned to avoid people like Chris and his group, so I did learn from it but it was seven months of my life that I can’t have back so thanks a lot Chris.”

Kingston has since moved on to feuding with another member of the Jericho Appreciation Society, Sammy Guevara. He recently challenged the Sex-God to a grudge matchup at the September 4th ALL OUT pay-per-view in Chicago. AEW has yet to officially confirm the bout.

(Quotes via Fightful)

WWE Hall Of Famer Backstage at RAW Tonight

Jon Fuentes
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Another WWE Hall Of Famer is backstage for tonight’s Monday Night RAW.

Beth Phoenix is in Toronto and backstage for Monday Night RAW tonight, according to PWInsider. Phoenix’s husband, fellow WWE Hall Of Famer Edge, is set to compete against Damian Priest tonight in singles action.

It remains to be seen if Phoenix will actually be a part of the show. She could simply be ringside for Edge’s match tonight, or she could get physically involved. Rhea Ripley could certainly play a factor in the match tonight, prompting Phoenix to get involved on her husband’s behalf.

Beth Phoenix at RAW in Toronto

Edge Beth Phoenix

Regardless, the match between Priest and Edge has been weeks in the making after Priest led an assault on “The Rated-R Superstar” to kick him out of The Judgement Day. They’ll finally settle their differences in Edge’s hometown tonight.

Phoenix isn’t the only Hall Of Famer slated for RAW tonight. As previously reported, former WWE Women’s Champion Trish Stratus is also set to appear on RAW tonight. Her appearance was confirmed on last week’s episode of SmackDown Live.

Stratus retired from professional wrestling back in 2006, but has made sporadic appearances for WWE over the years since. She did return to the ring in 2019 for a match with Charlotte Flair at SummerSlam in a losing effort.

Nikkita Lyons Shuts Down Rumor About Missing SmackDown

Jon Fuentes
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0

Nikkita Lyons has shut down a rumor about her recent removal from SmackDown Live.

Initially, Lyons and Zoey Stark vs. Natalya & Sonya Deville was advertised for last week’s SmackDown in a Women’s Tag Team Title Tournament bout. However, that bout did not happen, as Natalya and Deville instead took on the NTX duo of Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin & Jacy Jayne).

Dolin and Jayne actually won the match, advancing in the tournament. They’ll now compete in a semi-finals bout next week. It should be noted that Stark suffered an injury during her match against NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose last week at NXT Heatwave.

Nikkita Lyons
(via WWE)

A subsequent report suggested that Lyons was actually pulled from SmackDown after she wasn’t allowed into Canada for the show. Canada has strict immigration policies on those traveling to the country, and Lyons is not vaccinated against COVID-19.

Canada requires proof of vaccination upon entrance to the country. However, Lyons has since denied that her vaccination status had anything to do with her removal from the show, responding to a fan on Twitter.

Lyons assured fans her removal had nothing to do with COVID-19, but seemed reluctant to give the true reason at this current point in time. However, she did tease potentially revealing the real reason behind her removal soon.

Ex-WWE Star Hospitalized in Puerto Rico

Jon Fuentes
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0

A former WWE star has reportedly been hospitalized in Puerto Rico.

IWA Puerto Rico announced on their Twitter page that ex-WWE star Savio Vega was rushed to the hospital on Saturday. The veteran is said to be in stable condition at the moment and is still undergoing various tests.

There’s no exact indication as to what Vega is being hospitalized for, but he appears to be conscious and alert in photos.

Savio Vega Hospitalized

Savio Vega Hospitalized

Here’s the news from IWA Puerto Rico (translated):

“Yesterday, Saturday, Savio Vega had to be transferred to a hospital in an emergency. He is still under treatment. You need to rest to recover as soon as possible. He has his phone at hand to communicate only with his relatives.

“We request space. Thanks. In an update for our fans, Savio Vega is still in the hospital and undergoing a series of treatments. We wish him a speedy recovery. http://iwapuertorico.com.”

The 58-year-old Vega began his professional wrestling career back in 1987. He was with WWE from 1994 to 1999. Although he was a member of The Nation Of Domination during his run with WWE, he never was able to record a title victory with the promotion.

Since, Vega has competed all around the independent circuit, as well as a brief run with IMPACT Wrestling.

WWE Legend: Wrestling is Littered With Meaningless Titles

Michael Reichlin
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Championships are meant to signify greatness in pro wrestling. In a sport focused around in-ring exhibitions, title belts are the ultimate goal of every competitor. When used effectively, they can draw huge money and spark business. When a company has too many championships, their value diminishes.

Wrestling legend Bully Ray knows a thing or two about having gold around his waist. As one half of the Dudley Boyz, he’s one of the most decorated tag team wrestlers in history. He’s seen championships booked correctly and he’s seen opportunities squandered due to poor planning.

Bully Ray recently spoke with SEScoops correspondent Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston. During a discussion about whether or not the NWA should add a secondary Women’s Championship, Bully Ray spoke about the broader topic of championships in wrestling.

Make Them Matter

WWE and AEW, the top wrestling promotions in the United States, feature so many sanctioned titles that it’s difficult to keep track of them all.

Does WWE need two world champions, two sets of tag champions, two mid-card titles, a comedy title, in addition to all the belts in NXT and NXT UK?

Does AEW need two mid-card men’s titles (TNT and All-Atlantic), an unsanctioned FTW title and new Trios titles?

According to Bully Ray, we’ve got a problem on our hands.

“I think the wrestling industry is littered with championships that don’t mean a damn thing.”

– Bully Ray

Thankfully, there are some glimmers of hope. Bully Ray pointed out that WWE has done a phenomenal job re-establishing the Intercontinental and United States Championships in recent weeks. Those belts had been watered down to be nothing more than props, but Triple H has given fans a reason to understand and appreciate their lineage.

Bully Ray said it would be great for the NWA to create a Women’s TV Championship, as a ‘workhorse’ title, and would be open to the idea of Women’s Tag titles, if they have enough women to warrant them.

Watch Bully Ray’s interview with Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston:

AEW Fight Forever Playable Demo Coming to Gamescom This Week

Michael Reichlin
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The first playable demo for the AEW Fight Forever video game will be featured at this week’s Gamescom convention from Cologne, Germany.

This will be the first time that AEW’s in-development console video game can be played by the general public. The game is due out this year, although the release date has yet to be confirmed.

Amazon.com lists December 31st, 2022 as the release date for AEW Fight for the Fallen, but that is a placeholder until the actual date is announced.

AEW Fight Forever Screenshot

AEW at Gamescom

In addition to the AEW Fight Forever playable demo, All Elite Wrestling is also sending talent to the convention for a series of live exhibition matches.

From Thursday to Sunday, THQ Nordic will host the first-ever AEW matches from Cologne, Germany. A press release sent in from THQ Nordic reads:

“Watch famous AEW talents fighting forever (well, maybe not forever) in our very own ring and bring incredible wrestling action right to you.”

If you can’t make it to Cologne, Germany, don’t sweat it. THQ Nordic will be streaming live from the convention center from Wednesday through Sunday live at Twitch.tv/thqnordic.

Watch Roman Reigns Break Character For Young WWE Fan

Michael Reichlin
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0

Roman Reigns portrays the most dominant villain in WWE, but the Tribal Chief still goes out of his way to create special moments for young fans.

Reigns was back in action this past weekend during WWE’s weekend tour of Canada. He does not appear at many non-televised live events these days. However, he did compete at Saturday Night’s Main Event from the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Canada.

Reigns successfully retained the Undisputed Universal Championship against Drew McIntyre and Sheamus in a triple threat match.

After the match, he was making his way backstage when a fan got his attention.

Reigns Breaks Character for a Good Cause

As seen below, a father told Roman Reigns that his son loves him and it’s his birthday. Reigns stopped in his tracks, embraced the child, shook his hand and wished him a happy birthday. The father couldn’t contain himself and screamed, “holy sh*t” in excitement.

The Reigns vs. McIntyre vs. Sheamus bout was a tune-up for Reigns’ upcoming showdown with McIntyre at WWE Clash at the Castle.

The heavyweight Superstars are scheduled to headline the upcoming Clash At The Castle premium live event from Cardiff, Wales on September 3rd. This will be WWE’s first UK stadium show in thirty years.

WWE Saturday Night Slam Results

August 20, 2022, Ottawa, Canada, Canadian Tire Centre

  • Los Lotharios defeated Butch & Ridge Holland
  • Natalya defeated Shotzi
  • Gunther retained the Intercontinental championship against Shinsuke Nakamura
  • Ricochet defeated Happy Corbin in a No DQ Match
  • Sami Zayn defeated Madcap Moss
  • Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler defeated Smackdown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan & Aliyah
  • Roman Reigns defended the Undisputed Universal Championship against Drew McIntyre and Sheamus

Big E Health Update 5 Months After Breaking His Neck

Michael Reichlin
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Big E has provided an update on his health five months after breaking his neck.

The former WWE Champion was Ryan Satin’s latest guest on the Out of Character podcast for Fox Sports. During their discussion, he spoke about his health over the last few months and what the road to recovery looks like.

At this stage, he’s feeling good. More than anything, he’s grateful. When he fractured the C1 and C4 vertebrae in his neck, he could have been paralyzed. He could have died. He’s not experiencing any pain or weakness, which is nothing short of a miracle.

He’s unsure if he’ll ever be cleared to wrestle again. The next big update will come in March 2023, one year after the injury. His C1 is not completely ossifying (the bone is not reforming), which could prevent him from getting back in the ring.

Big E Injury Update

Big E is says his neck is ‘good enough’ that doctors aren’t worried about his ability to live a normal life. Here’s the word straight from Big E:

“For right now, I’m cleared to live a normal life and I do live a normal life. But, I’m not cleared to be taking off and hitting suicide spears and be to be taking back bumps. The nature of what we do is very physical, it involves your neck and your spine, and I’d like to keep that as in tact as possible.

So, for me right now, kind of the next step, is they want to take a look at it again after a year, get some more scans, so we’re talking about March 2023 to see whats doing. We might also along the way, at the 6 and 9 month mark, look it again. But, the upside is that right now, I have no nerve issues, there’s no tingling, no weakness.”

I’ve been in the gym since 2 weeks after breaking my neck. They told me, ‘As long as your neck is in the brace, as long as you stay in the brace, you’re good for that.’

So, yeah i’ve been working out, I feel great, I’m just really grateful. Honestly, it feels like a bullet whizzed by my face. I felt the wind of the bullet go by my head and I’m very grateful to still be here, to have use of my limbs, to still feel good. That’s really my biggest takeaway, is just gratitude. I try to be grateful that I’m still here. I’m still kicking.”

Being an Introvert, Dating

Elsewhere in the conversation, Big E spoke about being introverted. On television, he’s gyrating his hips and riling up the crowd. Some fans might be surprised to learn that when the cameras stop rolling, he likes to relax and have quiet time.

Big E was asked about his dating life. He joked, “It’s a mess out here” and said, “It’s a mine field, don’t do it man!” He tends to be interested in women that don’t live anywhere near him. “I don’t know what I’m doing,” he said. “I don’t have it figured out.”

He’s open to sharing his life with someone, but never felt the drive to settle down and start a family. He loves working, loves traveling and fears a partner would have a problem with his lifestyle.

Catch Big E’s chat with Ryan Satin on the Out of Character podcast:

Superstars & Referee Win 24/7 Championship at WWE Live Event

Thomas Lowson
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0

In WWE, title changes are usually reserved for Premium Live Events and TV shows but that’s not always the case.

On rare occasions, WWE will have titles change hands at untelevised live events to give the fans in attendance an extra special moment.

Title Changes

At a WWE Live event in London, Ontario, Canada, the 24/7 Championship changed hands several times.

Dana Brooke walked into the event as Champion but lost the title to Tamina Snuka.

Snuka’s reign, her fifth reign overall, ended in seconds when she was pinned by Nikki A.S.H, marking the Scottish wrestler’s third reign as champion.

WWE referee Shawn Bennett had his own brief moment of glory, pinning Nikki to win the title, marking the first time an active referee had become champion in WWE.

Bennett’s history-making victory was also short-lived, as he lost the title an estimated ten seconds later to Snuka.

Snuka’s sixth reign ended shortly after, being pinned by Brooke, who left the show with the 24/7 Title, now an eight-time holder of the gold.

The 24/7 Championship

Introduced by Mick Foley in 2019, the 24/7 Championship is WWE’s answer to the Hardcore Championship of the Attitude Era.

Unlike its predecessor, the 24/7 title focuses on comedy rather than violent wrestling.

While the title faced criticism from fans at first, thanks in part to its design, the championship would later win over audiences due who appreciated the comedic aspect of the title changes.

Jeff Hardy Felt “Ashamed” Chasing the WWE 24/7 Championship

Alexa Bliss is Confident She is WWE Hall of Famer Material

Thomas Lowson
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0

For the past two years, Alexa Bliss has been one of WWE’s most prominently featured Superstars.

In mid-2020, Bliss became part of Bray Wyatt’s ‘The Fiend’ storyline, which she kept going after the former Universal Champion’s release in July 2021.

Before being involved with The Fiend, Bliss saw success in both singles and tag-team action.

The first woman to hold both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships, Bliss is a former Women’s Tag Team Champion and captured the 24/7 Championship earlier this year.

Hall of Famer

With her memorable storylines and championship reigns, it’s easy for Bliss to be considered a future WWE Hall of Famer.

Speaking on the MackMania podcast, Alexa was asked whether she thinks she deserves to join the likes of Chyna, Mae Young, Trish Stratus, and Lita (via Sportskeeda.)

“I think on paper, yes. On paper, I could be a Hall of Famer, 100%. You know, I’ve been very fortunate with the opportunities I’ve had in WWE, especially in my first couple of years on the roster.”

Bliss gave no indication as to who could induct her when she becomes a WWE Hall of Famer.

An Entire Class

Alexa Bliss sees herself as a future WWE Hall of Famer, but she’s not the only current Superstar worthy of the honor.

In that same interview, the former Women’s Champion also praised WWE’s current women’s roster.

“On paper our whole women’s division technically yes, could be Hall of Famers.”

Alexa Bliss on the current WWE’s Women’s division.

WWE boasts an impressive women’s roster, including Charlotte Flair, who holds the record for the most Women’s Title reigns ever, as well as Becky Lynch, the first (and to-date only) woman to hold the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships simultaneously.

Alexa Bliss Just Won her First Championship in Over Two Years

Edge on his Wrestling Career: “The End is in Sight”

Thomas Lowson
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0

At the 2020 Royal Rumble Pay Per View, Edge made his in-ring return, almost nine years after his last match.

It was on the post-WrestleMania 27 Raw in 2011 that Edge announced his in-ring retirement due to neck issues, and it was believed he’d never wrestle again.

Since returning, Edge has feuded with some of WWE’s biggest stars including AJ Styles, Roman Reigns, Randy Orton and Seth Rollins.

The End is Near

Edge’s return to wrestling is nothing short of a miracle, but the WWE Hall of Famer will one-day have to retire all over again.

Speaking with Bleacher Report for a new interview, Edge made it clear he’s well aware that he is on borrowed time.

“I am enjoying and soaking in every moment with the complete realization that it’s going to end soon. I know the end is in sight and I can see it, and because of that, it makes me enjoy it more.”

“I know the end is in sight and I can see it.”

Edge on his return to pro-wrestling.

What’s Left for Edge?

Edge has accomplished plenty throughout his wrestling career, but there are some accolades left for the Rated-R Superstar to tick off his proverbial bucket list.

The WWE Hall of Famer has headlined WrestleMania twice (24 and 37) but is yet to win the final match on WWE’s biggest event of the year.

Edge is also yet to become Universal Champion, something he tried to do in 2021.

More immediately, Edge will compete on tonight’s Raw in his native Toronto, facing Damian Priest.

It is expected that he will compete at next month’s Clash at the Castle.

Edge Confirms Reports About Judgement Day
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