Join us as we run down The Good, The Bad and What The Heck?! moments from this week’s Raw.
Plus, we’ll name the show’s MVE (Most Valuable Entertainer).
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What Happened After May 23 WWE Raw Went Off The Air
The May 23 episode of WWE Raw is in the books but some important movement took place after the USA Network airing.
In the main event of Raw, Asuka took on Becky Lynch in a rematch. The stipulation was that if Becky won, then she’d be added to the Raw Women’s Title match at Hell in a Cell on June 5.
Asuka ended up accidentally kicking Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair in the head, causing a distraction. Asuka almost got counted out but it didn’t matter as Becky rolled up Asuka for the pinfall.
It’ll now be Belair vs. Asuka vs. Becky at Hell in a Cell.
MVP’s Stipulation Revealed After Raw
Fans also witnessed MVP defeat Bobby Lashley thanks to interference from Omos. As a result, MVP got to lay down the stipulation for Lashley vs. Omos at Hell in a Cell.
Before MVP could get a word out, however, Lashley got him in the Hurt Lock.
When the show went off the air, WWE held its Raw Talk show. During the show, MVP announced that it’ll be him and Omos vs. Bobby Lashley in a handicap match.
Cody Rhodes Addresses WWE Universe
As far as the live crowd post-show is concerned, Cody Rhodes spoke to the fans in attendance. This was after he had a dark match in which he pinned Seth Rollins. He took pics with as many people as he could after the match.
Corey Graves Teases Joining The Judgment Day
The Judgment Day has been trying to find its next member and Corey Graves is considering joining the faction.
The faction is led by Edge and he’s aligned himself with Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley. The group is currently in a feud with AJ Styles, Finn Balor, and Liv Morgan.
Edge has been trying to recruit all of them but the one name who seems to stand out to him is AJ.
With that said, the former “Rated-R Superstar” has namedropped several others. One of those names he has mentioned is WWE Raw commentator Corey Graves.
Graves used to be an active competitor before concussions forced him to retire. Graves has been cleared to compete since that time but he’s remained at the commentary desk given his success over the years.
With that said, during the May 23 episode of Raw, Corey Graves admitted joining Edge’s stable is something he has to consider.
Following Raw, Graves took to his Twitter account and teased joining The Judgment Day with a single image.
WWE Returning To Saudi Arabia This November For Crown Jewel
WWE has confirmed the return date for their next premium live event in Saudi Arabia as they will hold the Crown Jewel show on Saturday, November 5th from Riyadh.
WWE has a 10-year partnership with the Saudi General Sports Authority where they’re paid big money to host two events in the country per year except for a fourth-quarter 2020 show as well as the first quarter of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Their previous show took place this past February for the Elimination Chamber event. In the main event, Brock Lesnar won the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber Match. The company also held a women’s chamber match and the card also included a match featuring Ronda Rousey as well as WWE Hall Of Famer Lita challenging Becky Lynch for the Raw Women’s Title.
Updated 2022 WWE Event Schedule
- Sunday, June 5 – Hell In A Cell Pay-Per-View at Allstate Arena in Chicago, IL
- Saturday, July 2 – Money In The Bank at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas
- Saturday, July 30 – SummerSlam at Nissan Stadium in Nashville
- Saturday, September 3 – Clash at the Castle UK PPV at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales
- Saturday, November 5 – WWE Crown Jewel from Saudi Arabia
- Saturday, November 26 – Survivor Series at TD Garden in Boston
Riddle Hints At The End Of RK-Bro Amid Randy Orton’s Absence
Riddle opened the May 23 episode of WWE Raw with an emotional promo.
He told the WWE Universe that Randy Orton had back problems going into the tag team title unification match, which was held on the May 20 episode of SmackDown. The Usos ended up winning all the gold thanks to assistance from Roman Reigns.
Riddle went as far as to say Orton was barely able to walk ahead of the match. He then said he doesn’t know about the future of RK-Bro due to Orton’s lingering issues.
“Randy’s been having a really hard time with his back lately. Before our Tag Team Title Match, he could barely walk. I knew Randy wouldn’t let me down because he knew how much it went to me. And he knew how much it meant to you.”
Of course, this could be a part of the storyline between The Bloodline and RK-Bro. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer had reported last week that Roman Reigns is expected to take on Randy Orton either at Money in The Bank or Summerslam.
Reigns is also internally set to meet Riddle one-on-one at some point in July. It’s important to note that these plans are not set in stone.
Kyle O’Reilly Gives Details On His AEW Contract: “I Signed A Five-Year Deal”
Looks like Kyle O’Reilly will be with AEW for a lengthy run.
The former multi-time NXT tag champion revealed during an interview on the Toddcast that he has signed a five year deal with the promotion, stating that he’s excited to continue living his dream.
“For me, in five years, I’ll still be with AEW. I signed a five-year deal with them. Hopefully, by then, champion of the company or several time tag champion, just having fun and never losing that love I have for the business.”
O’Reilly debuted for AEW back in December of 2021, which means his deal won’t expire until the end of 2026 or potentially early 2027 depending on when he actually signed. Regardless…he says he’s adamant about continuing to put on marquee in-ring performances much like the one he just had against Rey Fenix in the Owen Hart Memorial tournament.
“Hopefully, having kick ass matches because that’s what it’s about for me. Getting in the ring. That’s where Kyle O’Reilly is best suited, between those ropes, just trying to have good matches with guys.”
O’Reilly will be taking on current Ring of Honor Television champion Samoa Joe in the semifinals of the Owen Hart Memorial on this week’s AEW Dynamite from Las Vegas. If he were to win, he will be facing fellow Undisputed Elite member Adam Cole in the finals, which take place at Sunday’s Double or Nothing pay-per-view.
(Quotes via Fightful)
Unannounced Match Listed Internally For AEW Double Or Nothing
It looks like AEW’s upcoming Double Or Nothing PPV will be getting another match.
Double or Nothing is scheduled for May 29. It’ll be held inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The main event is expected to be the AEW World Title match between champion Hangman Adam Page and CM Punk.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer is reporting that there is one match that hasn’t been announced for the card but is listed internally.
That is a mixed tag team match, as it’ll be Sammy Guevara and Tay Conti taking on either Ethan Page or Scorpio Sky and Paige VanZant.
The match is being described as “tentatively planned” for the show. Of course, plans can change.
WWE RAW Results (5/23/22): Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch vs. Asuka, Judgement Day
WWE RAW aired live from the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. Becky Lynch and Asuka battled again in tonight’s main event. If Lynch won the match, she would be added to the RAW Women’s Championship match at Hell in a Cell. Cody Rhodes squared off against The Miz on tonight’s RAW.
RAW Results
- Riddle & Street Profits def. Sami Zayn & The Usos
- Damian Priest & Rhea Ripley def. AJ Styles & Liv Morgan
- Alexa Bliss def. Nikki A.S.H.
- Ezekiel def. Chad Gable
- MVP def. Lashley via count out and will pick the stipulations at Hell in a Cell
- Becky Lynch def. Asuka & is now in the RAW Women’s Championship match at Hell in a Cell
Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:
Street Profits & Riddle def. The Usos & Sami Zayn
Riddle came down to the ring and was emotional. Riddle said Randy Orton has had a tough couple of months but he laid it all on the line for the fans. He got pissed about how The Usos won last week and called Roman Reigns a “Tribal piece of trash”.
Riddle said he doesn’t know if RK-Bro will ever be a thing again and started a chant with the crowd. He then pointed at the camera and said “thats for you Randy”. Riddle & Street Profits then battled The Usos & Sami Zayn in a 6-man tag team match.
Sami Zayn made his way to the ring in a Bloodline shirt and was followed by Undisputed Tag Team Champions The Usos. Street Profits and Riddle attacked during The Uso’s entrance and brawl broke out as SmackDown went to a commercial break.
When RAW returned, Angelo Dawkins and Sami Zayn started off the action. Dawkins sent Sami to the corner and hit a Splash. Riddle tagged in and Sami beat him down before tagging in Jey Uso as RAW went to a break.
When RAW returned, Zayn and Riddle tagged in. Riddle hit Jimmy Uso with a Ripcord Knee and sent Sami to the corner. Riddle hit Jimmy with an Exploder Suplex and then delivered another one to Sami. Riddle followed it up with a Senton as Dawkins took out The Usos. Montez then flipped onto The Usos outside the ring.
Riddle planted Sami with the draping DDT and geared up for the RKO. The Usos hopped on the ring apron for a distraction before leaving Sami Zayn alone in the ring. Riddle planted Sami with an RKO for the pinfall victory.
Lashley Will Face MVP Later Tonight
Lashley said he survived the Steel Cage match against Omos last week and saw the anger in that giant’s eyes. MVP interrupted and claimed that the whole world saw the Nigerian Giant beat Lashley’s ass all over that cage. Lashley suggested a match against MVP tonight and the winner will pick the stipulations for Lashley vs. Omos at Hell in a Cell.
Judgement Day Picked Up A Win
Judgement Day made its way to the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. Damian Priest asked the crowd to rise and began shouting at them to show the proper respect. Priest thanked Edge for showing him the way and called everyone else in the back sheep. Rhea thanked Edge as well before he grabbed the microphone.
Edge claimed that Judgement Day was a chance to rewrite their career under his learning tree. He noted that he wasn’t handpicked to sit at the top of the mountain like John Cena, he’s at the top because of his own hard work and success followed. Edge mocked the crowd for not working hard before wondering who will join Judgement Day next.
Edge rattled off Tommaso Ciampa, Corey Graves, Drew McIntyre, Liv Morgan, Finn Balor, and AJ Styles. He claimed that it was better for AJ’s health to join the group and that his kids can start calling him “Uncle Edge”. Damian Priest & Rhea Ripley then battled AJ Styles & Liv Morgan in a mixed tag match.
Damian and AJ started off the action as Edge was ringside for the match. Liv tagged in and sent Ripley to the corner. Liv went for a roll-up but Rhea blocked it and launched Morgan across the ring. Rhea went for a Suplex but Liv escaped and hit a Backstabber. Ripley rolled out of the ring and Liv leveled her with a Crossbody. AJ Styles hit Damian with a running kick to the face and posed with Liv in the ring.
Liv connected with a Hurricanrana and went for the cover but Rhea kicked out at two. Damian Priest and AJ Styles tagged in and traded punches. Styles hit a Clothesline and Priest rolled out of the ring. AJ got distracted by Rhea and Damian knocked him out of the ring. Priest bounced Styles’ head off the ring apron as RAW went to a break.
Morgan and Ripley traded punches when RAW returned. Liv hit a running knee to the face and followed it up with a Dropkick off the middle turnbuckle. Morgan hit Double Knees and went for the cover but Edge put Rhea’s boot on the rope to break it up. Styles attacked Edge outside the ring and then battled with Priest. Edge interfered again and Rhea capitalized for the pinfall victory. After the match, Edge hit Styles with a Spear as Rhea beat Liv down some more.
The Mysterios Got Revenge On Veer Mahaan
Jerry Lawler returned for an edition of King’s Court. Jerry welcomed Veer Mahaan as his guest and wondered what is the secret to Veer’s success. Veer wouldn’t answer and Jerry kept asking questions. Mahaan finally answered and boasted about taking The Mysterios (or The Domonik’s as Lawler called them) out. Veery was about to attack Lawler before Rey Mysterio and Dominik made the save. The Mysterios knocked Veer out of the ring and he retreated to end the segment.
Alexa Bliss def. Nikki A.S.H.
Former tag teammates Alexa Bliss & Nikki A.S.H. battled tonight in a singles match. Doudrop accompanied Nikki to the ring. Alexa sent Nikki to the outside and she regrouped with Doudrop. Back in the ring, Nikki tackled Bliss to the canvas and unloaded some punches. Alexa battled back with a Dropkick and followed it up with Twisted Bliss for the pinfall victory.
Seth Rollins Attacked Cody Rhodes
Cody Rhodes battled The Miz to begin the final hour of this week’s RAW. The Miz controlled the action early but Cody rolled Miz up out of nowhere for a two count. Rhodes followed it up with a Dropkick that knocked Miz to the outside. Back in the ring, Cody hit a Suplex and followed it up with a running knee to the face for a near fall. The Miz hung up Rhodes on the ropes and booted him to the outside as RAW went to a break. w
When RAW returned, Cody connected with a Powerslam and followed it up with the Cody Cutter. Rhodes applied the Figure Four in the middle of the ring but Miz was able to reach the ropes to break the hold. Seth Rollins then attacked to end the match in a DQ. The Miz and Seth beat Cody down and whipped him with his belt. Cody limped his way backstage but gave the belt back to the kid he originally gave it to.
Kevin Owens Will Battle Ezekiel At Hell In A Cell
Ezekiel faced Chad Gable tonight in a singles match. Otis and Kevin Owens were ringside for the match. Ezekiel dominated early but Otis tripped him up while the referee was distracted. Gable capitalized with a Dragon Screw and posed for the crowd. Gable followed it up with a Northern Lights Suplex and climbed to the top rope. Chad went for a Moonsault but Ezekiel got his legs up.
Otis hopped on the ring apron for a distraction but the referee caught him and kicked him out. Kevin Owens hopped in the ring and the referee kicked him out as well. Ezekiel then rolled up Gable for the pinfall victory and escaped through the crowd. Owens grabbed the microphone and wanted a match at Hell in a Cell and Ezekiel accepted.
MVP Won via Count Out
Bobby Lashley battled MVP tonight. The winner of the match will get to pick the stipulations for the match between Lashley and Omos at Hell in a Cell. Omos was ringside for tonight’s match. MVP spent the first minute of the match avoiding Lashley until Bobby finally caught him with a Clothesline. Lashley then bashed MVP into the ring post and high fived a fan before rolling MVP back inside the ring.
Omos went for a Clothesline but Lashley ducked. Lashley then sent Omos over the barricade into the timekeeper’s area. However, Lashley was unable to make it back into the ring in time and MVP won via countout. MVP will pick the stipulations for the Lashley vs. Omos at Hell in a Cell. Lashley got MVP in the Hurt Lock after the match.
Becky Lynch Is Added To The RAW Women’s Title Match At Hell In A Cell
Asuka battled Becky Lynch in tonight’s main event. RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair was ringside for the match. If Becky won the match, she will be added to the title match between Belair and Asuka at Hell in a Cell, making it a Triple Threat match. Asuka defeated Becky Lynch in last week’s main event to earn the title shot. RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair was ringside last week as well.
Asuka controlled the match early and applied a submission hold. Lynch reached the ropes and rolled out of the ring. Asuka followed and Becky shoved her into the ring post as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Asuka and Becky connected with a Clothesline at the same time and both superstars fell to the canvas. Asuka connected with a knee strike to the face for a close two count.
Becky battled back and climbed to the top rope but leaped into a Codebreaker for a near fall. Asuka applied an armbar but Lynch quickly reached the ropes to break the hold. Lynch and Asuka battled on the top turnbuckle and the Empress of Tomorrow planted Becky with a Superplex for a near fall.
Asuka went for a Hip Attack but Lynch dodged it and applied a Dis-Arm-Her in the ropes for a few seconds before the referee broke it up. Asuka then hit the Hip Attack and Becky fell to the floor. Asuka went for a kick but Lynch ducked and Asuka booted Belair in the face. Becky returned to the ring and rolled Asuka up for the pinfall victory. Bianca Belair will now defend the RAW Women’s Championship against Becky Lynch & Asuka in a Triple Threat match at Hell in a Cell.
NJPW To Lift Restrictions On Crowd Noise By The End Of May?
A notable change could be coming to NJPW. Since bringing back fans for their events, the crowd hasn’t been able to be vocal whether that’s cheering or booing.
This has both been criticized by fans. However, it appears the restrictions will be lifted in time for the Battle Of The Super Juniors finals as NJPW commentator Kevin Kelly took to Twitter to pass on the news:
“I’m hearing that the restrictions on NJPW crowds vocally cheering could be lifted by the end of May. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear your voices for #njBOSJ final on June 3?”
Tokyo Sports has a feature story about people not being able to verbally make noise at wrestling shows in Japan. Takaaki Kidani, Bushiroad founder and President was quoted on the matter.
“I don’t know whether we will open up the entire venue or just an area [for verbal crowd noise], but if it is possible, I think New Japan could do it at the upcoming Nippon Budokan show (June 3). If it is possible, I would consider introducing it as soon as possible.”
Bryan Danielson has made past comments regarding being hesitant to come to Japan until people are allowed to verbally make noise again at shows. There are several AEW stars that have expressed interest in working in Japan for the promotion.
AEW Double Or Nothing Betting Odds
The final betting odds have been released for the AEW Double Or Nothing as the card for the show that takes place this Sunday is nearly finalized.
So far, four normal AEW titles are on the line with only one expected to change hands as CM Punk is favored to win the World Heavyweight Title. Some of the more notable odds include The Young Bucks favored to beat The Hardys and Wardlow over MJF.
There are no odds for AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill vs Anna Jay or the Owen Hart Tournament matches.
AEW Double Or Nothing Odds
As a reminder, we will be providing coverage of the show this Sunday. The favorites to win are listed as – while the underdogs are listed with +. Here are the final betting odds, courtesy of BetOnline:
AEW World Champion Hangman Page +110 vs. CM Punk -150
AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa -600 vs. Serena Deeb +340
AEW World Tag Team Champions Jungle Boy & Luchasaurus -150 vs. Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland +250 vs. Ricky Starks & Powerhouse Hobbs +250
Chris Jericho, Jake Hager, Daniel Garcia, Matt Menard & Jeff Parker +110 vs. Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, Eddie Kingston, Santana & Ortiz -150 – Anarchy in the Arena Match
Young Bucks -200 vs. The Hardys +150
MJF +340 vs. Wardlow -600
House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, and Buddy Matthews) -140 vs. Death Triangle (Pac, Penta, and Rey Fenix) +100
Pre-show: Hook & Danhausen-1200 vs. Tony Nese & Mark Sterling +500
WWE Planning To Use NXT Stars For Women’s Tag Team Title Tournament
When WWE stripped Sasha Banks and Naomi of the Women’s Tag Team Titles last Friday night on SmackDown after they walked out, the company announced they would hold a tournament to crown Women’s Tag Team Champions.
It left some to wonder how WWE is going to fill out the tournament because there are not many women’s tag teams on the main roster.
Bryan Alvarez noted on Wrestling Observer Live today that the company will turn to NXT and use some wrestlers from the developmental roster to fill in some spots in the tournament.
“They have sent word down to NXT to think about some women that might be able to be a team,” Alvarez said. “That’s where we’re at right now so yea you might see Kacy and Kayden called up because ‘we need teams.’”
It was pointed out how WWE hasn’t put a lot of focus on the division and they only have a couple of actual teams including Doudrop & Nikki A.S.H. and Shayna Baszler & Natalya.
It was speculated that the NXT teams would only be used for the tournament and would not be officially part of the main roster. It’s still unclear when this tournament will take place.
H/T to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription
WWE Has Zero Plans For Naomi & Sasha Banks To Return (Report)
It’s been one week since Naomi and Sasha Banks walked out of WWE Raw due to creative differences. WWE has stripped them of the Women’s Tag Team Titles, suspended them indefinitely, pulled their Facebook pages, and removed them from the intro video package.
During today’s Wrestling Observer Live, Bryan Alvarez recapped the situation and noted that creative is not working on anything for Banks and Naomi right now as WWE doesn’t have plans for them to return. Ringside News first reported the news.
“There are at this point zero plans for them to return, there is zero talk whatsoever about the two of them as it pertains to creative,” Alvarez said.
As previously reported, Naomi and Banks were upset with WWE planning to have them wrestle in the six-pack challenge match on Raw with Naomi going over to challenge Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair at Hell in a Cell while Banks was supposed to challenge SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey at this same show.
This would’ve put the Women’s Tag Titles on ice for the next month. As of this writing, Banks nor Naomi has publicly commented on the situation, leaving fans waiting to hear their side of the story.
H/T to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription
Pat McAfee Had No Clue Sasha Banks & Naomi Would Be Suspended
Pat McAfee’s reaction to Michael Cole announcing the suspensions of Sasha Banks and Naomi was genuine.
Just before the main event of the May 20 episode of WWE SmackDown, Cole addressed the situation involving the former Women’s Tag Team Champions. Sasha and Naomi had left the May 16 episode of Raw mid-show despite being booked for a match.
Cole announced that Sasha Banks and Naomi have been suspended indefinitely. He also said there will be a tournament to crown the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.
Pat McAfee Caught By Surprise
Fans watching at home quickly took notice of Pat McAfee’s facial expressions as Cole was talking.
During the latest edition of The Pat McAfee Show, the SmackDown color commentator said nobody told him that Cole would be announcing the suspensions of Sasha and Naomi.
“The Sasha-Naomi thing, that was my first time hearing what Cole was saying live there. I have no idea what to think there.
“I have no clue.
“This is a very fascinating thing. She’s [Sasha] a superstar, they were our champions. What’s happening? I honestly have no idea what to believe in this whole thing, they keep me out of the loop on everything.
“I have no f**king idea while Cole was doing his thing I was very fascinated. What is going on right now? I wish I had more answers for people. A couple of people asked me during my chat with Pat on Saturday what was going on.
“It’s like f**k I feel like you know more than I do literally as it was happening.”
Quotes via WrestlingNews.co
Lance Archer Suggests Massive Faction Match at AEW-NJPW Forbidden Door
Lance Archer has suggested that the House of Black should face Suzuki-Gun at the upcoming AEW-NJPW crossover event ‘Forbidden Door.’
Forbidden Door will mark the first crossover show between the two promotions and will take place on June 26, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Speaking to Steve Fall from NBC Sports Boston’s Ten Count podcast, Archer put forward the match.
“I’ll throw out a fun possibility dream match because the two guys just fought this last week. Brody King fought [Minoru] Suzuki at New Japan’s Capital Punishment [Capital Collision]… So they had a battle so why not Suzuki-Gun versus House of Black? That’d be cool.”
What we know about AEW-NJPW Forbidden Door
AEW-NJPW Forbidden Door was announced by Tony Khan last month and has already proven to be a hit with fans.
When pre-sale tickets went on sale earlier this month, the 11,000 available tickets sold out immediately.
The show sold out when tickets went on sale to the general public just one day later, leaving AEW and NJPW to open up more of the venue for fans.
So far, no matches have been confirmed by either promotion for AEW-NJPW Forbidden Door 2022.
Credit to Steve Fall of NBC Sports Boston for the interview.
Update On WWE Unifying Tag Team Championships
WWE has unified the Tag Team Championships despite initial reports.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer had reported that WWE was going to inevitably do a tag team title unification match with The Usos and RK-Bro but that things wouldn’t end with undisputed champions.
To Bryan Alvarez’s credit, he did say there was a possibility that the titles could be unified but expected it to be short-lived.
Ultimately, The Usos defeated Riddle and Randy Orton on the May 20 episode of WWE SmackDown to unify the gold.
Meltzer took to Wrestling Observer Radio to say that the decision to have The Usos win the undisputed gold was a last-minute move.
He said that ultimately, the feeling was that it had been built up for so long that a winner had to be crowned.
Dave also noted that the post-match attack The Bloodline dished out on RK-Bro was always part of the plan.
Jake Roberts Issues Apology To Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
Jake “The Snake” Roberts has regret after jumping the gun with claims regarding Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat’s health.
Back in April, Roberts took to the DDP Snake Pit and expressed grief over the infamous headbutt that he landed on Steamboat back in 1986. Jake claimed that Steamboat was going through health issues and hoped that his DDT wasn’t the cause of it.
Thankfully, Steamboat refuted Jake’s claim during a fan signing with Highspots. Ricky Steamboat said he gets regular medical checkups and he’s feeling great.
An Apology
On a new episode of the DDP Snake Pit, Jake Roberts apologized for getting ahead of himself and said he hopes he didn’t ruin his friendship with Steamboat (h/t WrestlingNews.co).
“I have a heavy heart today. Last week, we were talking about someone who I hold in the highest regard. Nobody higher. I value our friendship as much as I do Dallas. He’s just a lovely, lovely man. Last week, out of concern, I brought up something that I had no business bringing up because I didn’t check who said it.
“Number one, you should never talk about someone unless you check the facts. I said that I had heard Ricky was having problems with the mental aspect. I did it out of concern and love and fear, fear that I had been the reason, maybe, that he was having problems.
“The good news is he isn’t having any problems. I repeated something that I heard from what I thought was a very good source, someone who spends time with him, and I was totally wrong in doing it. I’m ashamed that I did it.
“But man, I am so scared that I’m going to lose my friendship with him. I’ve reached out with no luck, and Ricky, I certainly understand that you have the right to ream my butt, kick my butt, whatever, but just don’t shut the door on our friendship. That’s all I ask because I would really miss that.
“He’s a number one talent.
“There isn’t anybody better selling. He’s a phenomenal talent and a phenomenal man, a great human being.
“Please let me come back in.”
Jake recently had to dismiss a claim about his own health. Jim Ross said that Jake wasn’t in good health and he took to social media to say that isn’t the case.
Nia Jax Doesn’t Think Becky Lynch Has Any Friends In WWE
Nia Jax doesn’t think Becky Lynch actually has any friends in WWE.
Jax recently took part in a Q&A on her Instagram, when one fan asked if she and Becky Lynch were good friends. Jax responded by laughing, saying she doesn’t think Lynch has a good friendship with anyone in WWE.
This isn’t the first time Nia Jax has spoken out against Superstars or WWE in general. She recently noted she has received calls from people still there regarding how “miserable” they are working for the promotion.
Jax was released from WWE in November of 2021. During her time with the company, she was a one-time RAW Women’s Champion and a two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion alongside Shayna Baszler.
After her release, Jax didn’t do much in regards to professional wrestling, however, she’s currently slated to renew her rivalry with Lana (CJ Perry) at the upcoming inaugural Wrestling Entertainment Series (WES) event on June 4 from Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.
As for Lynch, she recently dropped the RAW Women’s Title to Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 38 in Dallas earlier this year. In her attempt to regain the title, Lynch actually lost a No. 1 contenders match to Asuka on Monday Night RAW last week.
Now, Asuka will face Belair for the RAW Women’s Title at the upcoming Hell In A Cell event. As for Lynch, it remains to be seen what’s next for her, as she was devastated as RAW went off-air last week, following her loss.
Lynch attempted to hit Asuka with her umbrella while the referee was distracted, but Asuka countered with a green mist attack, subsequently pinning Lynch for the win.
Steve Austin Welcomes WWE HOF’er For Next ‘Broken Skull Sessions’
Stone Cold Steve Austin will welcome a WWE Hall Of Famer on the next episode of “Broken Skull Sessions.”
WWE has confirmed that Jeff Jarrett will be joining Austin on an episode that will air on June 3 on Peacock TV. Jarrett joins a plethora of big names who have already been guests on the show; including The Undertaker, Bret Hart, Kane, Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes, and so many more.
Jarrett was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2018. During his time with WWE, Jarrett was a six-time Intercontinental Champion, WWE Tag Team Champion, and European Champion. Aside from his WWE accolades, Jarrett has done a ton in the professional wrestling business.
In WCW, Jarrett won the World Heavyweight Title four times, and was also a three-time WCW United States Champion. One of his World Title wins in WCW came as a result of winning the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament in 2000.
Jarrett also helped found and create TNA, which is known today as IMPACT Wrestling. This provided the groundwork for stars such as AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Bobby Roode, Austin Aries, Bully Ray, and so many more.
With all that being said, there will be no shortage of topics for Austin and Jarrett to touch on during their conversation.
Theory Reveals Instructions From Stone Cold Steve Austin During WrestleMania 38
Theory was given instructions by WWE Hall of Famer Stone Cold Steve Austin before taking one of the best Stunners we’ve ever seen.
On night two of WrestleMania 38, Theory went one-on-one with Pat McAfee. While Theory ended up falling short, he and Vince McMahon got a measure of revenge with Vince ultimately pinning the SmackDown color commentator.
While Theory and Vince thought they had the last laugh, Stone Cold marched down the ring and gave them both Stunners.
Instructions From Texas Rattlesnake
Theory spoke to Corey Graves on the WWE After the Bell podcast. During his appearance, the reigning WWE United States Champion detailed the instructions given to him by Stone Cold (h/t 411Mania.com).
“I remember him telling me when I was standing in the corner and he was arguing with Mr. McMahon. He’s like, ‘I’ll give you this look, and when I give you this look, start throwing. Come at me and start throwing some punches.’
“I remember standing in there, and I could feel my heart ready to go because I just knew what was about to happen. As soon as he looked at me, I was like oh hell yeah. It was so fun. It’s so cool just enjoying those moments.
“You’re standing there, and you’re in the ring with Mr. McMahon and Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania. I’m just like ‘wow.’ It’s speechless sometimes. I don’t even have words for that.”
Snoop Dogg Shows Support For Sasha Banks Amid WWE Suspension
Legendary rapper Snoop Dogg has shown his cousin, Sasha Banks, some love in the midst of her issues with WWE.
Sasha and her tag team partner Naomi have been suspended indefinitely by WWE. The punishment was handed down as a result of the former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions walking out of the May 16 episode of Raw mid-show.
In addition to the suspension, WWE has pulled all online merchandise for Sasha and Naomi. The company has also removed them from its TV intro.
Amid all the drama, Snoop Doog is showing “The Boss” some family love.
It was reported by PWInsider that creative differences were to blame for the incident. Sasha and Naomi were set to compete in a six-pack challenge to determine the number one contender for Bianca Belair’s WWE Raw Women’s Championship.
Naomi was scheduled to win the match and face Belair at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha Banks was going to challenge Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Championship.
Both were expected to lose their singles title matches.
The issue seems to be that Sasha and Naomi felt the work they had done as a tag team was being tainted.
It had also been reported by former WWE writer Kazeem Famuyide that contracts for both Sasha and Naomi are coming due in the near future.
Roman Reigns Says He May Be Done Working WWE Live Events (Video)
Roman Reigns says he does not expect to be working many more live events moving forward.
As we’ve been covering, Reigns will be working a lighter schedule for WWE in the months ahead. He’s also been talking about a future when he’s not a full-time WWE Superstar.
At Sunday’s live event from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Reigns defended the Undisputed Universal Championship against Drew McIntyre in the main event. Reigns was victorious.
After the match, he broke character and showed appreciation to the fans for supporting him.
Roman Reigns’ WWE Future
Once again, Reigns let people know he does not plan on being a full-time WWE Superstar for much longer.
“I honestly don’t know if I’m going to be doing too many more live events like this, on a Sunday, going forward.”
– Roman Reigns
The fans began jeering when Reigns spoke about his career wining down. He continued, but Reigns added, “So, this could be my last one and I want y’all to know that it was very special for me and I had an incredible time.”
You can see footage of Reigns’ comments below:
Reigns is expected to wrestle far fewer dates in the months ahead. He’s not retiring, but he will be cutting back on live events and even premium live events.
The Tribal Chief is not scheduled to compete at the upcoming WWE Hell in a Cell show. He is, however, scheduled to work Money in the Bank, SummerSlam and Clash at the Castle.
For details on who Reigns will be working with in the months ahead, check out our report below:
Chris Jericho’s Niece Bullied & Attacked At School
Bullying and school fights have long been a problem and the niece of Chris Jericho was a recent victim.
Jericho has had enough of the Hillsborough County Public Schools district as he claims they have ignored his family’s concern over his niece being bullied.
Jericho believes it led to a recent incident where his niece was attacked at Mulrennan Middle School.
The AEW star took to his Twitter account to post footage of the incident and has threatened to address the situation with ABC Action News and WFLA.
Hey @HillsboroughSch– My niece has been incessantly bullied at #MulrennanMiddleSchool for months. Despite my families pleas, nobody did anything to help…and this was the result a few days ago. If u won’t take action, I’d love to discuss this on @abcactionnews & @wfla ANYTIME! pic.twitter.com/mTUVzbdwuP
— Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho) May 23, 2022
“Hey @HillsboroughSch- My niece has been incessantly bullied at #MulrennanMiddleSchool for months. Despite my family’s pleas, nobody did anything to help…and this was the result a few days ago. If u won’t take action, I’d love to discuss this on @abcactionnews & @wfla ANYTIME!”
Johnny Gargano Reveals Original Creative Plans for The Way in WWE NXT
Former WWE NXT Superstar Johnny Gargano has said that The Way was meant to be much more serious than what fans saw.
The Way, comprising of Gargano, Candice LeRae, Indi Hartwell, and Theory was a dominant force in NXT, capturing both the North American and NXT Women’s Championships.
Dexter Lumis joined the stable in late 2021 after marrying Hartwell in the premiere episode of WWE NXT 2.0.
Speaking to The Bob Culture Podcast on YouTube, Gargano said that factors outside of WWE made the group become much more fun than first planned.
“That was never going to be the way that character was supposed to be. It was going to be a lot more serious, but I just kind of felt like with everything going on with the pandemic and with COVID and things like that, I felt like NXT just needed a little bit of levity, a little bit of funniness, silliness, goofiness, and I was happy that I was able to provide that.”
The Way disbanded in late 2021 following Gargano’s departure from WWE.
Lumis was released from WWE earlier this year, ending his on-screen relationship to Hartwell, with the explanation on TV being that Lumis left her.
Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.
Kelly Kelly Names Dream Opponents for Final WWE Match
Former WWE Superstar Kelly Kelly has said she’d love to get back in the ring if given the chance to wrestle Sasha Banks or Charlotte Flair.
Kelly joined WWE programming in 2006 and left in 2012, but has made sporadic appearances for the company in recent years.
The former Divas and 24/7 Champion has competed in three of the five Women’s Royal Rumble matches.
Sitting down with the Dropkick Podcast, Kelly was asked about this year’s Rumble match and who she’d like to face in her final bout.
“I always wanted to work with Sasha so it was really cool to be able to do that… I would say either Sasha or Charlotte Flair for sure.”
Kelly Kelly on who she’d like to face in her final wrestling match
Unfortunately for Kelly, neither match is possible at this time, as both women are away from WWE.
Flair is taking a hiatus from TV after losing the SmackDown Women’s Championship to Ronda Rousey at WrestleMania Backlash, and plans to marry her partner Andrade El Idolo soon.
Sasha Banks has been indefinitely suspended by WWE after she and Naomi walked out of last week’s Raw, with the pair being stripped of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.
Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.
Kevin Owens & Former WWE Rival Hug It Out During Fan Signing
Who says enemies can’t hash things out?
Kevin Owens attended MegaCon in Orlando this past weekend. He was in attendance for a fan signing. Also appearing during the festivities was a former WWE Universal Champion.
That person was none other than Adam Scherr, formerly known as Braun Strowman in WWE.
Here’s an image of Kevin Owens and Scherr sharing a fun moment when they ran into each other. The pic is courtesy of Reddit user CenturionElite.
Back in 2018, Owens and Scherr had a feud on WWE TV. At one point, Scherr tipped over a portable toilet with KO still in it. The aftermath wasn’t pretty.
Scherr was released by WWE back in June 2021. Budget cuts were used as a reason for his walking papers.
Owens has remained on the WWE roster and even headlined night one of WrestleMania 38 against Stone Cold Steve Austin.