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Kay Lee Ray & Io Shirai Crowned 2022 Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Winners

Andrew Ravens
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Io Shirai and Kay Lee Ray are the winners of the second Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic.

It happened when Wendy Choo and Dakota Kai vs. Io and Lee Ray was booked on Tuesday’s episode of WWE NXT 2.0. It headlined the show. Io hit her moonsault finisher for the win. 

As a result of this win, they’ve earned the right to challenge Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin & Jacy Jayne) for the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships. However, Kay had a different plan, At Stand & Deliver, Lee Ray and Io will join Rose and Cora Jade in a fatal 4-way match for the titles. 

https://twitter.com/WWENXT/status/1506450850276941826

First Round Results

  • Io Shirai & Kay Lee Ray defeated Amari Miller & Lash Legend
  • Kayden Carter & Kacy Catanzaro defeated Ivy Nile & Tatum Paxley 
  • Dakota Kai & Wendy Choo defeated Indi Hartwell & Persia Pirotta
  • Raquel González & Cora Jade defeated Yulisa Leon & Valentina Feroz 

In the semi-finals of the tournament, Shrai and Ray defeated Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter while Choo and Kai defeated Raquel Gonzalez and Cora Jade.

Dakota Kai and Raquel Gonzalez beat Shotzi Blackheart and Ember Moon at the NXT TakeOver: Vengeance Day special last year to become the first-ever winners of the Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. 

The Dusty Rhodes tag team classic tournament was established in 2015 as a tribute to the legendary pro wrestler.

NWA Powerrr Results (3/22)

Tyriece Simon
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NWA premiered their new season of NWA Powerrr on Mar. 22 at Skyway Studios in Nashville, Tennessee.

The main event saw the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Champion Homicide defend the title against Austin Aries. The latest episode also had the OGK challenge The Briscoes in a tag team non-title match. The episode is available on video on demand on FITE and will premiere on Youtube on Friday.

NWA Powerrr Quick Results

  • Matt Cardona started the program with Mike Knox and VSK to recap the Crockett Cup. He refutes that he tapped to Nick Aldis and said that a rematch would not happen. He ends by saying that he and his faction are the saviors of the NWA.
  • The Briscoes defeated OGK
  • NWA Tag Team Champions La Rebellion did a backstage promo. During the promo, they teased a potential feud with The Briscoes.
  • Trevor Murdoch defeated Brett Buffshay
  • After the match, Murdoch cut a heel promo and promised if NWA continues to feed him hacks, the blood will be on their hands, not his.
  • The NWA showed a taped backstage promo with Nick Aldis and Mickie James talking about the finish at The Crockett Cup Night 2. Aldis declares that the feud with Cardona isn’t over.
  • Tyrus and Austin Idol cut a promo and makes a challenge that if anyone bodyslam Tyrus they will get an opportunity to challenge for the NWA Television Championship.
  • The Hex defeated Paola Blaze and Jennacide with Taryn Terrell to retain the NWA Women’s Tag Team Championship. Blaze and Jennacide split up after the match.
  • Thom Latimar and Kamille cut a promo. Latimar shared that he ended his relationship with Chris Adonis. Kamille called Adonis “dead weight.”
  • Homicide defeated Austin Aries to retain the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship

The commentators congratulated Homicide to end the show.

Ethan Page Excited To See Tony Khan’s Plan For ROH

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Ethan Page puts his trust in Tony Khan’s plan for ROH.

In early March, Khan announced that he purchased Ring of Honor from Sinclair Broadcast Group. The AEW boss later revealed to reporters that he plans to be the booker of ROH.

Ethan Page Trusts The Process

Appearing as a guest on the Sports Guys Talking Wrestling podcast, Ethan Page explained how he believes Tony Khan’s purchase of ROH will be beneficial (via Fightful).

“It’s incredible because it offers more opportunities for the giant roster that AEW has. I want to say there are over 100 professional wrestlers under the AEW banner, as far as talent. Now we’re going to have more chances for guys, especially the younger guys, to get in-ring experience and mingle with even more wrestlers.

“So if you’re a fan, this is even crazier for you. Because there’s going to be more live events, there’s going to be more content for you to consume, there’s gonna be more dream matches and possibilities. It’s just very exciting.”

Page went on to say that he feels Khan’s vision for ROH will be exciting.

“I can’t wait to see what Tony does with it. This is a guy who put me and Sky together. That’s not an idea or thing I even thought was possible and it turned out to be my absolute favorite thing in my career so far.

“So I have an unrivaled trust in Tony Khan for his vision and goals and I can’t wait to see what he does with Ring of Honor.”

SEScoops exclusively reported that current ROH employees were told that the consensus is that Khan isn’t interested in retaining them. SEScoops was also the first to report that Khan planned to produce Supercard of Honor along with his AEW team.

Johnny Gargano Set to Make First Post-WWE Appearance

Rayan Sayyed
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Johnny Gargano is set to make his first public appearance outside of WWE since his departure from the company back in December.

Johnny Wrestling will appear at the annual WrestleCon convention during WrestleMania 38 weekend in Dallas, TX.

The former NXT Champion took to Twitter to announce his appearance at the wrestling convention. Gargano wrote: “Doing signings at Axxess was one of my favorite parts of WrestleMania weekend (so much so that I would always ask to do extra sessions if someone couldn’t do it) Believe it or not.. I’ve never done a @wrestlecon! So it felt like a good time.. Excited to see all of you in Dallas!”

Gargano let his WWE contract expire, which made him a free agent. He had chose to allow his contract expire so that he could be at home with his wife, Candice LeRae, as they were expecting their first child. Their son, Quill Lewis Gargano, was born in February 2022.

As far as the wrestling ring goes, there is no update on where and when he will be seen in it. However, Gargano seems to be focused on spending his time with his wife and his son for now. With him making a public appearance for the first time, it’s likely that we would hear about his plans soon.

Johnny Gargano was one half of the tag team DIY in NXT with Tommaso Ciampa. They won the NXT Tag Team Championships once. The both would go on to feud with each other, and fans would remember it as one of the most entertaining feuds on the brand. “The Heart and Soul of NXT” also captured the NXT Championship and the NXT North American Championship a record three times, making him the first ever NXT Triple Crown winner.

Veer Mahaan Comments on WWE Finally Announcing His Debut Date

Rayan Sayyed
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Veer Mahaan’s arrival on Raw has been teased by WWE since November, even featuring vignettes and segments on the show telling us that Veer is coming. We never got to know exactly when, and the “Veer Is Coming” or “coming soon to Raw” caption used by the company repeatedly even became somewhat of a joke online that the debut will never come to fruition. This, fortunately, has changed as WWE have actually included the exact date for when Veer will make his debut in the latest promo on this week’s Raw.

The package revealed that Veer will debut on the April 4 edition of Raw, which would be the first show after WrestleMania 38. Veer took to Twitter to thank fans for waiting for his debut in support: “Dedicated to the optimistic and positive of my fans that kept their fists raised high in support. I heard you. Yeah, the man is coming. He always was. I’m clearing that path ahead. Don’t stand in the way. Better yet….please try!”

Veer Mahaan made his debut on WWE programming on NXT in March of 2020. He used his real name, Rinku Singh, forming the tag team Indus Sher with Saurav Gurjar. He then debuted on the main roster in May last year on Raw where he teamed up with Shanky as backup for Jinder Mahal. He was then pulled from TV after Mahal and Shanky were drafted to SmackDown last October. Since then, he was repackaged, and has been wrestling on WWE Main Event for a few weeks now.

Veer was a baseball player before and his story was made into the movie Million Dollar Arm, released in 2014. He won a competition in cricket-obsessed India which aimed to find the fastest and the most accurate baseball pitcher in the country. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2009, making him the first Indian to play baseball professionally in the US. Veer would quit baseball in 2016, and sign a deal with WWE in 2018.

CM Punk Returns to AEW Dynamite This Week

Rayan Sayyed
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CM Punk has been off television since defeating MJF in a Dog Collar Match at AEW Revolution back on March 6th.

His absence was attributed to him reprising his role as fiction heel wrestler Ricky Rabies in the upcoming second season of the Starz series, Heels.

Punk announced on Monday night that he’s coming to Austin, TX for Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite. AEW has since confirmed the news.

Punk and MJF started their feud after Full Gear in November. Punk went through the majority of Pinnacle to get to MJF. They first met each other in the ring in Chicago in February in the main event of Dynamite, which MJF won by hitting Punk in the face with a diamond ring which was handed to him by Wardlow. Punk had come up with the Dog Collar Match gimmick from MJF’s frequent references to Roddy Piper, who famously had a Dog Collar Match with Greg “The Hammer” Valentine.

Now that Punk’s feud with MJF has come to an end, it will be interesting to see what’s next in store for him. Punk has teased that he would go after Hangman Page for the AEW Championship. Page is currently feuding with Adam Cole, which will likely reach its climax before Double or Nothing which is just two months away. It’s possible that Punk will also get involved in the title picture.

The Undertaker Says “Grit” Is Missing From Current Wrestling

Rayan Sayyed
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The Undertaker is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by Vince McMahon in his home state of Texas. Being in the industry for such a long time, the Undertaker has seen many changes in the WWE over the years. He spoke about those changes and revealed his thoughts about the current generation of wrestlers. He described what changes the current product in the era of social media has seen.

Speaking on the True Geordie podcast, “The Deadman” said that the bad habits prevalent in the locker rooms in the ’80s and ’90s is no longer seen but courage and resolve is missing from current wrestling.

“Things have changed. I can’t just say that it’s changed in wrestling. In all sports, it’s a different generation. Call it evolution if you want. One, I don’t think the guys are leading the same lifestyles that guys in the past did. One, they can’t, because everything they do, there is somebody, somewhere [pulling out a cell phone]. I feel bad for them because they can’t go and blow off steam somewhere after they work because they are constantly under some type of surveillance, where I didn’t have to worry about that because there wasn’t cell phones and all that,” The Undertaker said (h/t Fightful).

The Undertaker recalled his own past and how the locker rooms back then were different. He also revealed how a few wrestlers would carry knives and guns in their bags, and disagreements were “settled in the showers”. He said that the current talent is missing a certain level of grit.

“I feel like there is a level of grit that is missing from today’s product. I don’t know that it’s anybody’s fault. We all aged out. That new group has come up. When you watch Brock wrestle, you’re interested because you know, he has this background as an amateur wrestler, professional wrestler, mixed martial artist.”

The superstars from this generation that do possess this “grit”, according to The Undertaker, are Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, and Roman Reigns.

Undertaker will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 1. He recently revealed that he turned down the offer to be inducted before and could have been inducted sooner.

The Hardys Recall Working With Scott Hall Early in Their Careers

Michael Reichlin
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The wrestling world lost an icon last week with the tragic passing of Scott Hall.

The Hardys, Matt and Jeff, shared memories of working with Hall on the latest episode of The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy podcast.

Matt Hardy began by saying it’s extremely sad how Scott Hall’s death seemingly came out of left field. It is difficult to make sense of things when somebody passes away unexpectedly, but Matt feels that it’s important to make the most of each day. The Hardys have always “lived for the moment” but Hall’s passing is a reminder that you never really know how much time you have left in life.

Matt told host Jon Alba that Scott Hall was good to the Hardys when they worked together in the early days of their WWE careers.

“Scott was very cool to us,” he said. “We had a lot of good fun stories with him. I’ll never forget the second day I was with WWE, obviously the first day Jeff wrestled him, he was 16 years old and it was under very strange circumstances where the match was very frustrating with Scott Hall because the guy he was supposed to wrestle said he couldn’t take his finish. He was a little frustrated wrestling with Jeff and that ended up working in Jeff’s favor because he formed a little bond with him after that.”

Matt continued, “The next night, I was wrestling with him and I remember he said, ‘When I’m in the corner, poke me in the eyes, give me three or four chops, I’ll turn around and give you some,’ and I got two really good ones in that rang out loud in the arena. I hit a second one and he stopped me right then and there and turned me around and said, ‘Easy kid, you had two really good ones, I couldn’t let you outshine me out there though.’”

Jeff Hardy Remembers Scott Hall

Jeff Hardy says Razor Ramon was a huge inspiration on their careers. However, that match against Hall had him reconsidering his love for pro wrestling.

Not only were the WWE rings “terrible” back then (very stiff to take bumps on), but Scott Hall also roughed him up a bit.

“Even that first match, and that hard-ass WWE ring back in the day, you had to be like Andre the Giant to make it move, it was terrible,” said Jeff. “Him being real stiff and roughing me up, I totally second-guessed my love for pro wrestling. ‘I don’t know if I’m cut out to do this.’ I didn’t like it, I didn’t like that match at all, it really hurt. It wasn’t fun.”

That first match against Razor was tough, but he remembers Scott Hall took him under his wing and looked out for him behind the scenes.

“Then moving forward Scott Hall was so kind because he thought I looked like Vanilla Ice, and the Kliq started calling me Ice and I’ll never forget one time he told Pat Patterson, I was like 16 or 17 too, ‘Let’s get this kid on the road, get him seasoned.’ I’m not even legal yet. There’s something very special to what he saw, he saw my future through whatever it was and he believed in us every step of the way, and that’s rare, man.”

Listen to Matt and Jeff Hardy on the latest episode of The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy:

Trey Miguel Claims Impact Wrestling Stars Aren’t Invited To Walk Through “Forbidden Door”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Trey Miguel believes Impact Wrestling stars aren’t exactly feeling the love from other promotions.

Trey has demonstrated loyalty to Impact. One example of this is when his former Rascalz teammates, Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz left to form MSK on WWE’s NXT brand. Miguel remains on Impact citing personal reasons for not accepting WWE’s offer:

“I feel like it is worth mentioning AGAIN that a month and a half ago my Nephew was born prematurely and is in isolated care until what would have been his actual due date. Meeting a healthy baby boy is more important to me than anything else. I’m sure you all can respect that.”

Outside of WWE, cross-promotion is typically embraced in the wrestling industry. WWE actually did business with Impact back in January, leading to Mickie James entering the Royal Rumble wearing the Knockouts Championship.

While AEW and NJPW have also done business with Impact, Trey thinks that other promotions aren’t itching to bring in talent from the Anthem-owned company.

No Love For Impact Stars, Says Trey Miguel

Appearing on the Out of Focus podcast, Trey Miguel shared his opinion that other promotions simply aren’t willing to bring in Impact Wrestling stars (h/t Fightful).

“The main thing that makes today’s wrestling so special is how willing companies are to work with each other. You see AEW popping up at New Japan, New Japan popping up at IMPACT. You don’t really see IMPACT guys popping up anywhere else, people don’t f*ck with us like that. It’s cool. People want to drop in on us, but we don’t get to go nowhere.”

Miguel went on to say that it’s not an issue of Impact stars not being allowed to branch out.

“That’s not it. You’ll see a tweet go out, ‘Oh, anyone is invited,’ but no one is invited [from IMPACT]. There’s a list this big of guys, Sami Callihan went there, Moose went there, and the Good Brothers, but that’s it, but the list is huge from guys that have come in.”

William Regal Recalls His Time In NXT & Scouting Talent for WWE

Michael Reichlin
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William Regal had a lot to share with Chris Jericho during his recent appearance on the Talk Is Jericho podcast.

Last week, we covered Regal’s revelation that doctors gave him 24 hours to live at one point, as well as him being partially blind in his left eye.

The former NXT General Manager also spoke in-depth about his time in WWE’s developmental brand. In addition to being NXT’s on-screen authority figure, Regal reveals he also had a lot to do with developing the NXT brand to be the success it once was.

“NXT had started, I was the first person, as far as I know, that [Triple H] pulled in and said, ‘What’s your vision for this?'” he recalls. “We did what we did and it was a great thing for a lot of people. It was a great success, and I have no ill will at all for anyone. I am really happy. Because it needed some kind of change because things had changed. This place had come along and different things, so it needed [change].”

Scouting Talent for WWE & NXT

William Regal worked closely with former WWE executive Canyon Ceman to make NXT a legitimate third brand for the company. He says he had the eye for scouting and developing talent, while Ceman managed the logistics like contracts.

“Canyon Ceman, who I worked for and with, is a hell of a fella, a wonderful fella, said Regal. “When he came onboard, Triple H said, ‘Can you just look after him?’ I said, ‘Right.’ And I said, ‘Let’s start off on the right foot, let me take care of the wrestling and you take care of everything else. You take care of the athletes and the contracts and that. I don’t need to know anything else.”

Regal and Ceman worked together to scout talent and hold WWE tryouts across the world. He added, “I was looking at everybody, everywhere. That’s what I did. I studied everybody from everywhere, paid attention to everything. I would just turn up at whatever country, do this tryout.”

Listen to William Regal on Talk Is Jericho:

Paige VanZant on Why She Chose AEW over WWE

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling talent Paige VanZant has shared what made her join the company over the WWE.

The former UFC Strawweight has begun to start her professional wrestling career. Wrestling fans have wondered if she would transition to wrestling after her MMA career hit a snag. Although, it came as a surprise that VanZant chose not to sign with WWE.

In an interview with Renee Paquette and Miesha Tate, VanZant explains what led her to pro wrestling and join AEW.

“…I did know that my career would take me to pro wrestling eventually. I wasn’t sure what venue that would be if that would be the WWE. If that would be AEW,” said VanZant. She explained, “I have been a fan of both, so I actually did make it out about a year ago to WWE headquarters, and they had a different plan for what they wanted for me. Whereas with AEW, I’m so excited that they were happy to partner with me and let me continue to fight MMA continue to do BareKnuckle Boxing. They are really honestly on board to just build my career., build me as a wrestler and let me be myself.”

AEW Willingness to work with Active MMA Fighters

VanZant shared with Chris Van Vliet she spoke with WWE. During that time, she was still committed to being an active fighter. Unlike VanZant, former MMA fighters have retired and later joined WWE to wrestle like Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler. However, AEW allows MMA fighters to wrestle and still compete in their sport.

AEW’s willingness to sign active MMA fighters could help attract big-name athletes like Colby Covington. The company also has a working relationship with American Top Team Founder Dan Lambert. Last year fighters like Jorge Masvidal, Junior Dos Santos, and Andrei Arlovski have appeared on AEW TV.

VanZant is the second active MMA fighter to sign with the company. If AEW continues to allow fighters to wrestle and fight, you could see more popular athletes join AEW over WWE.

For more on Paige VanZant’s MMA career, visit MMA News.

WWE Smackadillas Virtual Restaurant Launches

Michael Reichlin
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WWE fans in the Dallas area have a chance to experience the first-ever “WWE-themed virtual restaurant.”

WWE Smackadillas is a delivery-only virtual restaurant featuring a unique menu of quesadillas. The limited-edition virtual restaurant is presented in partnership with Nextbite.

Hungry fans can order the WWE Smackadillas now through April 11th via Grubhub, Uber Eats and DoorDash.

In a press release issued via Business Wire, Nextbite Chief Growth Officer Geoff Madding spoke about the unique offering.

“WWE is one of the premier sports and entertainment organizations in the world and is known for giving their passionate fan base exactly what they want,” said Madding.

“Whether you order WWE Smackadillas from the comfort of your couch or on your way home from WrestleMania, we look forward to amping up the total WWE experience with these delicious quesadillas for all the hungry fans in the Dallas area.”

In addition to serving up WWE-themed quesadillas, WWE Smackadillas is also doing a bunch of promotions in the Dallas area during WrestleMania week, including ticket giveaways and WWE merchandise.

For more information on WWE Smackadillas, visit WWESmackadillas.com.

Injury Updates on Two Top Stars Headed into WrestleMania

Michael Reichlin
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We have injury updates for two top WWE Superstars less than two weeks out from WrestleMania 38.

Former WWE Champion Bobby Lashley has been dealing with a legitimate shoulder injury since January. Bianca Belair has been off television following a recent attack by her WrestleMania opponent, Becky Lynch.

Bianca Belair Injury Update

Bianca Belair is scheduled to challenge Becky Lynch for the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania Saturday.

Last week on Raw, Lynch viciously attacked Belair by wrapping a chair around her head and ramming her into a ring post.

WWE.com ran an article stating that Belair would be out of action for an unspecified amoutn of time after suffering a “fractured hyoid bone” in her throat.

Belair did not appear at this week’s Raw, but fans can rest assured that she will be “healthy” in time for WrestleMania. The injury is purely a storyline. She was kept off Raw to sell the injury. She will be back in time for WrestleMania, where she hopes to avenge a stunning loss to Big Time Becks last year at SummerSlam.

Bobby Lashley Injury Update

The Almighty Bobby Lashley’s injury is legitimate. He’s been dealing with a shoulder injury since January when he wrestled Brock Lesnar at the Royal Rumble.

Lashley was in Dallas at AT&T Stadium last week (according to Pwinsider) and WWE officials are hopeful that he’ll be healthy in time for WrestleMania. Lashley does not have a match booked for the show, but it’s rumored that he’ll be facing Omos.

Final WWE Raw Before WrestleMania 38 is Looking Stacked

Michael Reichlin
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WWE wants fans to know that next week’s edition of Monday Night Raw is a can’t miss show. The company has announced several big matches and segments for the “go home” edition of Raw before WrestleMania 38.

Here’s a look at what’s in store when WWE Raw rolls into the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburg, PA:

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and Universal Champion Roman Reigns will go face to face ahead of their Winner Takes All Championship Unification match at WrestleMania.

There are three matches signed for the show. The card serves as a true preview for WrestleMania, since each match involves competitors who will be opponents at AT&T Stadium just 6 days later:

  • The Miz (with Logan Paul) vs. Rey Mysterio (with Dominik)
  • The Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy
  • 8-Woman Tag Match: Sasha Banks, Naomi, Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley vs. Shayna Baszler, Natalya, Carmella and Zelina Vega

Plus, Seth Rollins still has nothing to do at WWE’s biggest show of the year. Next week, we’ll find out what WWE has in store for him. Will Rollins have a match at WrestleMania, some sort of interview segment, or will he be left off the card entirely?

WWE RAW Results (3/21): Kevin Owens Mocks Stone Cold, Rollins’ Last WrestleMania Chance

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the Allstate Arena in Chicago. AJ Styles returned tonight to address being attacked by Edge after accepting his WrestleMania challenge a couple weeks back. In addition to the takeaways below, it was announced that Veer Mahaan will finally be coming to RAW on April 4th (the RAW after WrestleMania).

RAW Results (3/21)

  1. The Mysterios def. Robert Roode & Dolph Ziggler
  2. Omos def. Apollo Crews & Commander Azeez in a Handicap Match
  3. Shayna Baszler & Natalya def. Rhea Ripley & Liv Morgan
  4. Finn Balor def. Austin Theory
  5. Dana Brooke & Reggie def. Akira Tozawa & Tamina
  6. AJ Styles def. Seth Rollins via DQ

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Kevin Owens Mocked Stone Cold

Stone Cold’s theme hit to begin RAW and the crowd went insane. However, Kevin Owens emerged with a bald cap on and jean shorts. Owens mocked Austin some more and asked the crowd to give him a “hell yeah!?”. Kevin called Austin a sorry son of a bitch and asked for another hell yeah. The crowd booed and Owens started doing the “what?!” chant.

He continued to speak as if he was Stone Cold and that he was pathetic for responding to Owens in front of his golf cart. The crowd chanted “we want Austin” as Owens called them stupid. Austin’s theme hit again but it was another trick from Owens.

Kevin laughed into the microphone as the crowd booed. Owens called the crowd idiots and asked for some beers. Owens dropped the beer cans and demanded that the music be stopped. Owens blamed on the guy throwing the beers to him and asked the man to bring it to him. The stagehand gave Owens the beer and went to leave but Kevin dropped him with a Stunner. Owens cracked open the beers and poured it on the worker. Owens didn’t take a sip of Austin’s Broken Skull beer and decided to launch the can out of the ring.

The Miz Stole Rey Mysterio’s Mask

The Mysterios faced Robert Roode & Dolph Ziggler tonight on RAW. The Miz joined commentary for the match.Before the match, Seth Rollins came to the ring and demanded a spot at WrestleMania. Rollins wanted a spot that was going to live forever. Rollins microphone kept cutting off during the promo.

When RAW returned from a break, the match began and Rey connected with a Dropkick on Ziggler. Roode tagged in and Rey greeted him with a Tornado DDT. Dominik tagged in and connected with a Neckbreaker on Roode for a two count. Roode responded with a Spinebuster for a near fall. Rey sent Ziggler out of the ring and hit Roode with the 619. Dominik made his way to the top turnbuckle and followed it up with a Frog Splash on Roode for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Ziggler hit Dominik with a Superkick. The Miz attacked Rey and planted him with the Skull Crushing Finale. Miz then stole Mysterio’s mask and ran backstage. Rollins was backstage with Deville & Pearce. Adam told Seth to stop disrupting the show and Rollins laughed before walking away.

The Miz then was interviewed backstage and boasted about stealing the mask. Miz dared Logan Paul to wear the mask next week on the final RAW before WrestleMania. Miz & Logan Paul will face The Mysterios at the biggest show of the year. It was later announced that The Miz will face Rey in a singles match next week on RAW.

Omos Dominated & Made A Challenge For WrestleMania

Omos made his way to the ring for a Handicap match against Apollo Crews and Commander Azeez. Omos sent Apollo to the canvas and battled with Azeez outside the ring. Apollo joined in again and Azeez sent Omos into the ring post.

The action returned to the ring and Omos quickly took control. Omos beat Crews down and then Azeez tagged in. Omos showed off his power and planted Azeez with a a Body Slam. Omos followed it up with a kick to Azeez’s face and followed it up by Chokeslamming Crews on top of him. Omos then covered Azeez and Crews at the same time for the pinfall victory. After the match, Omos grabbed the microphone and challenged anyone that has the balls to face him at WrestleMania.

Seth Rollins Will Face AJ Styles For A Spot On WrestleMania

AJ Styles made his return to begin the 2nd hour of RAW. Styles said he watched the clip of Edge hitting him with the con-chair-to over and over to the point where he almost went crazy. AJ called Edge’s explanation nonsense and that the truth is that he doesn’t he care. Styles said he was here to kick Edge’s teeth down his throat and dared the Rated R Superstar to come to the ring.

Edge didn’t come down to the ring and AJ called him a coward. Seth Rollins’ theme hit and he danced around on the entrance ramp. The crowd chanted “Cody!” and Rollins told them to simmer down. Styles told Rollins to cut the crap and asked what he wanted. Rollins laughed and told Styles that he is concerned about AJ’s health and safety.

Seth wondered if AJ was physically and emotionally capable of fighting Edge at WrestleMania. Rollins told AJ to go home to spend some time with his family, get 100% and come back after WrestleMania. Styles stated that as long as he able to walk he is fighting Edge at WrestleMania.

Rollins wondered if he were then to take out Styles he would get his spot at WrestleMania. Adam Pearce & Sonya Deville interrupted and announced that Rollins will get one last shot. If Rollins beats Styles later tonight, he will replace him in the match against Edge at WrestleMania.

Baszler & Natalya def. Morgan & Ripley

Liv Morgan & Rhea Ripley faced Natalya & Shayna Baszler tonight on RAW. Shayna and Rhea started off the match by locking up in the middle of the ring. Baszler controlled the action but Ripley was able to tag in Liv Morgan. Natalya tagged in and Liv beat her down. Shayna provided a distraction and Natalya capitalized with an Atomic Drop. Carmella made her way ringside and chatted with Corey Graves. Baszler pulled Rhea off the apron and sent her into the barricade. Back in the ring, Natalya and Shayna hit Hart Attack on Liv for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Zelina Vega rushed the ring and bashed Rhea Ripley with the scepter. Women’s Tag Team Champions Carmella and Zelina then shared a hug after having argued backstage earlier on the show.

Becky Lynch Warned Bianca Belair

RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch took a seat in the ring on the chair she attacked Bianca Belair with last week. Lynch spoke about having to drop her title for fifteen months and that it is the only thing that matters inside and outside the ropes. Becky blamed the crowd for choosing Bianca Belair over her when she came back.

Becky claimed that Belair doesn’t have what it takes to get the title back at WrestleMania. She added that she meant to injure Bianca last week and that is the difference between them. Lynch said she sold her soul to get the title back and will take Bianca’s. The champion asked “what does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?” and said she will show everyone at WrestleMania.

Pat McAfee Helped Finn Balor def. Austin Theory

United States Champion Finn Balor faced Austin Theory tonight on a non-title match. Pat McAfee joined commentary for the match and will face Austin Theory at WrestleMania 38. Balor dominated early and stomped Theory to the mat. Austin Theory rolled out of the ring to regroup and McAfee took the opportunity to taunt him. Balor capitalized on the distraction and hit Theory with a Suicide Dive as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Austin Theory took control and set up for the ATL. Balor blocked it and went for a Slingblade. Theory countered into a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Finn powered out at two. Austin made his way to the ring apron and Pat McAfee tried to trip him up. Balor capitalized on the distraction and rolled Theory up for the pinfall victory. Balor celebrated with Pat McAfee on the entrance ramp after the match.

Street Profits Sent A Message Ahead Of The RAW Tag Title Match At WrestleMania

RK-Bro faced Alpha Academy in a non-title match to begin the final hour of RAW. Alpha Academy isolated Riddle in the ring to start off the match. Riddle battled back and hit Gable with an Exploder Suplex. Gable rolled out of the ring and Riddle went after him. Gable slammed Riddle on the ring apron and Otis followed it up with a shoulder tackle that sent Riddle flying as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Otis and Orton were battling in the corner of the ring. Orton sent Otis out of the ring and then booted Gable in the face. Randy planted Gable with the draping DDT and posed for the crowd. Orton went for an RKO but Gable countered into a German Suplex. Riddle tagged in and Gable went for a Northern Lights Suplex but Riddle landed on his feet.

Riddle hit the Bro Derek on Gable for the pinfall victory. After the match, Otis launched Orton over the barricade and attacked Riddle. Otis climbed to the middle turnbuckle but Street Profits broke it up. Street Profits sent Alpha Academy out of the ring. Angelo Dawkins then planted Riddle with a Spinebuster and Ford followed it up with a Frog Splash.

Dana Brooke & Reggie Picked Up A Win

Dana Brooke & Reggie faced Akira Tozawa & Tamina tonight on RAW. Before the match, Reggie & 24/7 Champion Dana Brooke shared a kiss backstage. Tamina and Tozawa then awkwardly kissed before heading to the ring. This was a comedy match that saw Tamina falling onto Tozawa’s groin during it. Dana Brooke & Reggie got the quick win and Tozawa was embarrassed by Tamina carrying him backstage after the match.

Edge Attacked AJ Styles, Seth Rollins Flipped Out

AJ Styles squared off against Seth Rollins tonight on RAW. The winner of the match will face Edge at WrestleMania. Styles went for a wrist lock but Rollins escaped and the two locked up again. Styles went for a headlock this time and brought Rollins down to the mat.

Seth escaped and planted Styles with a Slingblade. Styles hit a Back Body Drop and went for a Splash in the corner but Seth dodged it. AJ sent Seth flying out of the ring and delivered a Phenomenal Forearm on the floor outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Seth was in control and stomped Styles down in the corner of the ring. Rollins followed that up with a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Styles kicked out at two. Seth hung up AJ in the Tree of Woe and delivered a Dropkick to the face for another near fall. Rollins sent Styles out of the ring and hit him with a Suicide Dive through the ropes. Seth had a crazed look in his eyes and stared at the WrestleMania sign as RAW went to the final commercial break of the night.

Rollins had a headlock applied when RAW returned from the break. Styles battled to his feet and broke the hold but Rollins stomped him down to the mat. Rollins started taunting AJ before bashing him with a bunch of forearms to the face. Styles shrugged it off and leveled Seth with a big Clothesline.

AJ followed it up with a sliding forearm to the face and Rollins backed to the corner. Styles hit a Clothesline and a Neckbreaker for a close two count. AJ set up for the Styles Clash but Rollins countered into a cradle flor a near fall. Styles then slammed Rollins face first to the mat and went for the cover but Seth kicked out and the match continued.

Seth connected with the Falcon Arrow and went for the cover but Styles was able to kick out at the last moment. Rollins took another look at the WrestleMania sign before setting up for the Stomp. Styles blocked it and Suplexed Rollins into the turnbuckle. Both superstars were down for a bit before AJ Styles started pulling himself up.

AJ climbed to the top turnbuckle but Seth caught him with a punch to the face. Rollins went for a Superplex but Styles blocked it. AJ tripped Seth up and he tweaked his knee. Styles capitalized and got Rollins up in the Torture Rack and into a Blue Thunder Bomb for a near fall.

Styles set up for the Phenomenal Forearm but Rollins saw it coming. Seth hit a Superkick and then followed it up with a Buckle Bomb. Rollins quickly climbed to the top rope and went for a Frog Splash but Styles got his knees up. AJ then set up for the Phenomenal Forearm but Edge hit Styles in the back with the steel chair. AJ Styles won the match via DQ and Rollins once again lost his chance at a match at WrestleMania.

Seth Rollins flipped out after the match and grabbed a microphone. Rollins took a look at the WrestleMania sign and shouted “this is bullsh*t!”. Seth claimed that RAW will not happen unless he gets what he deserves, a WrestleMania moment. Rollins started destroying the barricade and the RAW set as the show went off the air.

Spoiler: Omos To Face Former WWE Champion At WrestleMania 38

Andrew Ravens
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WWE has some big plans for Omos at WrestleMania 38 next month as WrestleVotes initially reported that Omos will face an opponent that might “surprise” people at the event in Dallas, Texas at AT&T Stadium. 

The current plan calls for Omos to face Bobby Lashley at WrestleMania (via Fightful). Lashley has been out of action since WWE Elimination Chamber where he suffered a storyline concussion, which was done to cover up his shoulder injury with the expectation that he would need surgery. 

He dropped the WWE Title in the Elimination Chamber match. Initial reports estimated that Lashley would require four months to recover from the surgery, but it looks like he is coming back sooner than expected.  As of this writing, it has yet to be confirmed that Lashley is cleared to compete. 

WWE has been pushing him since he made his main roster arrival as he had a successful run as a tag team with AJ Styles and since the split, he has been picking up squash wins on Monday Night Raw in recent weeks.

Brandi Rhodes Teams With DIGA Studios To Take Cooking Series To TV

Andrew Ravens
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Brandi Rhodes has her first post-AEW project lined up as after hosting her cooking show, Shot of Brandi, on YouTube for the last four years, she is hopeful to move to television. 

Deadline reported today Rhodes has partnered with Scream and Teen Wolf producer DIGA Studios to achieve that as she to bring the online show to a TV partner. 

“I started shooting this show in my kitchen four years ago with two iPhone cameras and a cocktail,” said Rhodes. “I am excited to see the show evolve and thankful for the fans who have followed along.  I assure you, now that I’m working with DIGA the best is yet to come.”

DIGA Studios will look to sell the half-hour television series to broadcasters and streamers.

Cody and Brandi Rhodes left AEW last month with Cody returning to WWE at WrestleMania 38 for a match with Seth Rollins. The couple previously starred in the TNT reality series Rhodes To The Top.

Rhodes also previously appeared on WAGS Atlanta. DIGA Studios, the company run by Tony DiSanto, has been behind shows such as Hot Ones: The Game Show for truTV and Discovery+’s Selling The Hamptons.

Jeff Hardy Details Meeting Darby Allin For The First Time

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Jeff Hardy is now All Elite and he and Darby Allin have already gotten to meet each other.

Hardy made his AEW debut on the March 9 episode of Dynamite. Jeff saved his brother, Matt, along with Darby and Sting from a beatdown at the hands of the Andrade Family Office. After Jeff cleaned house, he and Matt had a lengthy staredown with Darby and Sting.

Jeff Hardy Meets Darby Allin

During an appearance on The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy podcast, Jeff Hardy revealed he got to introduce himself to Darby Allin outside of the ring (h/t Wrestling Inc).

“It was so cool meeting him. We talked about skateboarding, motocross, he showed me the thing he did for the video with the car, like this is so cool. We were talking about if a pro wrestler has ever backflipped a dirt bike and maybe you could be the first one.

“I think I could do it if I came into a foam pit and had some training. Yeah, we had a great conversation about extreme sports and he is one of the fastest guys I’ve ever seen. The way he does that suicide dive.

“Matt’s told me how it feels to take it, it’s like a bullet coming at you.”

On the March 23 episode of Dynamite, Matt and Jeff will team with Darby and Sting to take on The Blade, The Butcher, and Private Party.

Austin Theory Reveals Biggest Misconception About Vince McMahon

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Austin Theory has shared what he believes is the biggest misconception about Vince McMahon.

Theory has aligned with Vince on WWE TV. He’s scheduled to wrestle Pat McAfee on night two (April 3) of WrestleMania 38.

Misconceptions

During an interview with TV Insider, Austin Theory discussed what he believes people get wrong about the WWE Chairman.

“For me, there has always been the stigma of Vince McMahon that he is not nice or one-way about stuff. That it’s his way or no way. From what I’ve seen and my experience, he is on another level. All the hats he wears.

“He is so invested in everybody and somehow makes everything work. I think that’s so crazy to see him doing it for that long and staying that sharp. If I have a question or see anybody have a question, and they want to talk to him, they always get an answer. They always get a conversation.

“I think that is so cool to really see the passion he still has for what he does. It hasn’t left him at all. For me personally, it is cool to know this man’s a billionaire and still working like he has a grand in his bank account.”

What Austin Theory Learned From Vince

Theory also discussed what he’s been able to learn from Vince McMahon. He claims to have learned “respectful aggressiveness” thanks to Vince’s guidance. Theory says it has allowed him to get ahead as a WWE performer.

“I’m in a position that anyone who aspired to do anything in WWE would be so honored to have. I understand just how big a deal the position I am in is. Just how crazy it is for me as a lifelong fan who grew up watching Mr. McMahon and the crazy things he did.

“It’s cool to be put in a position to perform live television with him. The one thing I’ve learned from him is this respectful aggressiveness. Showing you have that respect, but if you have an idea and are passionate about something, you have to use that aggressiveness to go after it.

“There are little tips as we perform that I take away from for sure.”

WWE WrestleMania 38 Match Card, Date & Time, How To Watch

Michael Reichlin
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This year’s WrestleMania premium live event will take place place over two nights. Breaking from the previous format of Night 1 and Night 2, WWE has dubbed the two nights WrestleMania Saturday and WrestleMania Sunday.

The following is an updated look at the lineups for WrestleMania 38 weekend:

WrestleMania Saturday

  • SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey
  • WWE Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair
  • The Miz & Logan Paul vs. Rey & Dominik Mysterio
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Happy Corbin
  • The KO Show with special guest Stone Cold Steve Austin
  • SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Rick Boogs

WrestleMania Sunday

  • Winner Take All Unification Match: Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. WWE Champion Brock Lesnar
  • Edge vs. AJ Styles
  • Pat McAfee vs. Austin Theory
  • Sami Zayn vs. Johnny Knoxville
  • Raw Tag Team Champions RK-Bro vs. The Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy
  • Women’s Tag Team Champions Carmella & Queen Zelina vs Sasha Banks & Naomi vs Rhea Ripley & Liv Morgan

Date, Time & How to Watch

WWE WrestleMania 38 is scheduled to take place over two nights at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

WrestleMania Saturday takes place Saturday, April 2nd. WrestleMania Sunday takes place Sunday, April 3rd.

You can watch WWE WrestleMania 38 on Peacock in the United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

Big E Speaks Candidly About His Battle With Depression

Michael Reichlin
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Big E is speaking out about his battle with depression.

The former WWE Champion is one of the most beloved figures in all of professional wrestling. He’s known for projecting a positive attitude on television, but he has contemplated suicide in the past.

On Monday, Ohio State University football star Harry Miller appeared on the Today to discuss his decision to step away from football to focus on mental health. Big E saw a clip of Miller’s appearance and felt compelled to share his own experience with depression.

On Monday afternoon, Big E wrote on Twitter:

“In my early 20s, I wanted to be famous so that when I committed suicide, someone would care. I never thought I could be free of the sheer weight of my depression but here I am—alive and truly happy.”

You might look at Big E and ask, what does he have to be depressed about? Unfortunately, depression is like addiction: It can affect people no matter your age, gender, race or socioeconomic status. If it comes for you, it can be deadly.

Get Help If You Need It

If you or someone you know is battling depression, seek help. Suicide is never the answer. Below are some resources for coping with depression and suicide prevention:

Gable Steveson Says He’ll Be At WrestleMania 38

Michael Reichlin
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Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson is headed to WrestleMania.

Steveson won his second NCAA wrestling championship for the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Saturday. He left his boots on the mat after the match, indicating the end of his storied amateur wrestling career.

Gable Steveson

Steveson has confirmed to Sports Illustrated that he’ll be in attendance for WrestleMania 38.

“I plan on going to WrestleMania,” he said. “That’s the first time WWE fans will see me and what I’m about. I’m going to put my heart out there.”

Steveson says there are a few people in WWE who reach out to check in on him, including Paul Heyman, Triple H and Brock Lesnar.

“Paul Heyman is always like the first one to text, and that means a lot. He always reaches out and makes sure I’m good. Paul “Triple H” Levesque checks up on me, and so does Brock Lesnar. They’ve shown me a lot of love and respect.”

Gable Steveson in WWE

The 21-year-old wrestling machine will be joining WWE as a full-time Superstar very soon. He signed with WWE in September 2021 and was drafted to the Raw brand a few months ago in the 2021 WWE Draft.

Expect to see Gable Steveson’s latest NCAA tournament win mentioned on tonight’s episode of Monday Night Raw.

Steveson has already made several appearances on WWE television, including SummerSlam 2021 and an episode of WWE Raw December 13th.

Two-Night WrestleManias Are Probably Here To Stay

Michael Reichlin
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Wrestling fans should expect WrestleMania to be held over two nights for the foreseeable future.

WWE expanded WrestleMania to two nights at WrestleMania 36 back in 2020. The trend has continued since then with no signs of slowing down.

Over the weekend, Dave Meltzer addressed the future of WrestleMania on the Sunday Night’s Main Event podcast.

“I talked to people [in WWE] and they certainly gave me the impression that the idea is 2 days going forward,” said Meltzer. “They always can change their mind based on what happens. I think that they all thought that 7-hour show just doesn’t work. That’s more tiring than the 2 days.”

WrestleMania 36 was held without fans at the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Last year’s WrestleMania from Tampa Bay had a limited capacity, also due to the pandemic.

The Future of WrestleMania

WrestleMania Dallas
(Photo: SEScoops)

WWE has used WrestleMania 38 as a barometer to determine if a two-night event was viable. Ticket sales have been strong thus far.

According to WrestleTix, approximately 58,000 tickets have been distributed for each night. The stadium will be set up to accommodate 63,438. This is a far cry from 101,763, the attendance figure WWE boasted for WrestleMania 32 from the same venue. However, the event will still be incredibly profitable.

Next year’s WrestleMania 39 will take place from the new SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. WWE has yet to announce if the two-night trend will continue, but that’s a safe bet.

“It’s just the nature of what WrestleMania has become,” said Meltzer. “There’s more money to be made and it’s better for the shows.”

Latest on Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania, “Dusty Would Be Beaming”

Michael Reichlin
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Cody Rhodes is reportedly signed with WWE and will face Seth Rollins in less than two weeks at WrestleMania 38.

WWE has been teasing Cody’s arrival on recent episodes of Raw. The American Nightmare could reappear on WWE television as soon as tonight’s Raw from Chicago’s Allstate Arena.

Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins hasn’t been announced just yet, but we know when it will take place. Reddit user u/kerrmit125, a verified insider, has provided new information regarding WWE’s scheduling for the biggest 2-night event of the year.

Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins is scheduled to take place at WrestleMania Sunday (“Night 2”).

It was also revealed that Becky Lynch vs Bianca Belair is booked to open WrestleMania Saturday. The ‘main event’ of WrestleMania Saturday won’t be Ronda Rousey challenging Charlotte Flair for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. In fact, it won’t be a match at all. Steve Austin’s appearance on the KO Show is slated to close WrestleMania Saturday.

WrestleMania 38 takes place April 2nd & 3rd from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

‘Dusty Would be So Proud’

Cody Rhodes’ sister Teil says their late father Dusty Rhodes would be “beaming with pride” over what’s about to happen.

She shared a photo over the weekend of Dusty and Cody together. She wrote, “I knew my old man best and I know he would be beaming with pride if he could see what’s next.”

WrestleMania is jam-packed with special attractions, but Cody Rhodes’ triumphant return has the potential to steal the spotlight from Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns, Steve Austin, Ronda Rousey, Jake Paul and Johnny Knoxville.

Bron Breakker Will Face Robert Roode at Tuesday’s NXT

Michael Reichlin
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0

As we covered last week, WWE plans to send more main roster talent to NXT 2.0. The company wants to spike viewership on the developmental brand, while also giving the younger talent the experience of working television matches agains veterans.

WWE has announced Robert Roode will compete against Bron Breakker this Tuesday night in a battle of former NXT Champions.

Roode is directly responsible for Breakker being a former champion. As the tag team partner of Dolph Ziggler, Roode interfered in the match that saw Ziggler capture the gold just weeks ago.

Breakker has a rematch against Ziggler scheduled for NXT Stand & Deliver on April 2nd. First, he’ll have to go through Ziggler’s Dirty Dawg partner.

The following is an updated preview for Tuesday’s NXT 2.0 on the USA Network:

  • Bron Breakker vs Robert Roode
  • Grizzled Young Veterans vs Creed Brothers
  • North American Fatal 5-Way Qualifier: A-Kid vs Grayson Waller
  • North American Fatal 5-Way Qualifier: Roderick Strong vs Solo Sikoa
  • Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Final: Dakota Kai & Wendy Choo vs Kay Lee Ray & Io Shirai
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