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Bully Ray: WWE Championship Could Not Mean Any Less To Me

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Bully Ray believes the WWE Championship hasn’t been treated with the same dignity as the Universal Title.

Brock Lesnar walked into the Royal Rumble event this year as the WWE Champion. He put his gold on the line against Bobby Lashley.

Paul Heyman turned on Brock by handing Roman Reigns the WWE Title. “The Tribal Chief” blasted Brock with the gold, allowing Lashley to score the pinfall and win the championship.

Shortly after Roman nailed Brock with the WWE Championship, he looked at the title in disgust and tossed it to the side. Reigns is the current WWE Universal Champion.

No Love For WWE Title

During an episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray expressed his belief that the WWE Championship has been treated as a secondary championship.

“No matter how great Bobby Lashley looks, no matter how great of a wrestler Bobby Lashley is, Bobby Lashley has been getting verbally punked out by Brock Lesnar.

“It happened a little bit again last night, and then in the package seeing Roman just discard the championship and throw it to the side tells me that the WWE looks at that Universal Championship as the end all and be all.

“There’s gonna be a WWE Championship match at WrestleMania but it’s not gonna feel nearly as important unless Brock Lesnar is the one holding that championship. So, I don’t know what a lot of people wanna see.

“This is me as a fan, that WWE Championship could not mean any less to me.”

Brock will get a chance to win back the WWE Title on Feb. 19. He will be competing in an Elimination Chamber match in Saudi Arabia. He’ll share the ring with Lashley, AJ Styles, Seth Rollins, Riddle, and Austin Theory.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat Booked For MLW Event

Chris Stephens
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Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat has been booked for MLW’s February 26th, 2022 show in Charlotte, North Carolina. Steamboat will play the role as MLW match-maker for the event as well.

“The legend returns to the hallowed grounds of the Grady Cole Center where “The Dragon” emerged as a main eventer and forever became a part of Charlotte’s rich wrestling history,” reads an MLW press release.

“Celebrated as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Ricky Steamboat has signed on as the matchmaker for MLW’s big Charlotte card.”

MLW’s current match-maker is Cesar Duran. He is the former Dario Cueto from Lucha Underground and plays a very similar role in MLW. The promotion is currently airing episodes of “MLW Azteca”. These episodes feature matches taped during their show in Tijuana, Mexico on December 3rd.

One match already booked for the show in Charlotte will see Alexander Hammerstone defend his MLW World Championship. Hammerstone will face the winner of the 2021 Opera Cup, Davey Richards.

The 68-year-old Steamboat is a 1x NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame Class of 2009. Additionally, Steamboat was a 4x NWA United States Champion, 1x WWE Intercontinental Champion, 2x Mid-Atlantic NWA Heavyweight Champion.

Keith Lee Becomes a Free Agent: “My Chains Are Broken”

Michael Reichlin
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Keith Lee is a free man. 90 days after WWE released him on November 4th, 2021, the Limitless one is able to work anywhere he pleases.

On Wednesday, Keith Lee wrote on Twitter:

Through Victory… My Chains are Broken.

Time…. has freed me. And now… the Force shall guide me.

– Keith Lee

Keith Lee sounds hungry to get back in the ring, wherever “the force” takes him.

In the weeks following his WWE release, Keith Lee has assured fans that he will return in some capacity. He told his followers on social media, “patience is key.”

Lee recently applied to trademark his “Limitless” moniker, for entertainment services and merchandising.

Now that Keith Lee is no longer bound by a WWE non-compete clause, it’s only a matter of time before fans bask in his glory once again.

For more details on the (many) former WWE Superstars who are also free agents as of today, check out this article:

Hit up the comments and let us know where you want to see Keith Lee next.

Shane McMahon Departs WWE After Royal Rumble Chaos

Chris Stephens
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WWE has scrapped plans for Shane McMahon to wrestle at Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania.

Vince McMahon’s only son was a surprise entrant in the 2022 Men’s Royal Rumble match. In the days following the Rumble, we learned Shane McMahon was heavily involved in the booking the men’s Rumble match. The planning of that match was said to be very chaotic and McMahon had “backstage heat” as a result.

Steve Carrier of RingsideNews is reporting that all bets are off and Shane ‘o Mac is effectively gone from the company.

“There is a lot going on with Shane McMahon. He is now off RAW, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania,” Carrier tweeted. “A tenured source within the company told us that Vince McMahon is also quietly using the term ‘let go’ to describe the situation.”

https://twitter.com/steve_carrier/status/1488860957115834369

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has since confirmed the Ringside News report.

Shane McMahon & the Royal Rumble

McMahon worked as a producer on the men’s Royal Rumble match. It is something he also did for the 2020 and 2021 Rumble matches as well. Previous reports stated that McMahon attempted to make this year’s Rumble match all about himself, however.

Dave Meltzer addressed the situation recently on Wrestling Observer Radio.

“There was a lot of heat on Shane because Shane was one of the producers,” Meltzer said. “In fact he was kind of the head producer of the Rumble.”

A previous report from Ringside News stated that “A tenured member of the creative team told us that Shane McMahon ‘openly buried Jamie Noble’ and he ‘tried to book the Rumble around himself.’” 

Click below for more details on Shane McMahon’s chaotic week:

Heat on Shane McMahon From Royal Rumble Booking (Report)

Killer Kross on Free Agency: “A New Tale Has Begun”

Michael Reichlin
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Killer Kross is now a free agent. He was one of nearly 20 people released by WWE on November 4th, 2022. His 90-day non-compete clause has expired, paving the way for whatever comes next.

To commemorate his freedom, Kross released a new vignette titled, Midnight. In the video, he makes a clear distinction between Killer Kross and Karrion Kross, the character he portrayed in WWE and NXT.

“When they called, they said, ‘We are releasing you.’ And how ironic, because they said that to the man who put me away. And at the same time they were releasing him, it was actually they who released me, which is exactly what I needed the entire time. And now, I have such sights to show you. Stay tuned. Tick-tock.”

Karrion Kross in WWE

Killer Kross joined WWE in February 2020. Over the next two years, he would wreak havoc on NXT, WWE’s developmental brand. He was booked as a maniacal killer and captured the NXT Championship on two separate occasions.

It seemed like Karrion Kross was destined for big things when he was called up to the main roster, but that was not the case. He made his WWE Raw debut on July 19th, 2021. Despite holding the NXT Championship at the time, he was pinned by Jeff Hardy in less than two minutes.

Kross officially joined the Raw brand a month later. His character received a complete overhaul, including a gladiator helmet and suspenders. His fiancée, Scarlett Bordeaux, was no longer part of his act. Kross didn’t do much on the Raw brand from there. He and Scarlett were both released a few months later.

In addition to Karrion Kross, other former WWE Superstars who are now free agents include Keith Lee, Nia Jax, Ember Moon, Scarlett Bordeaux and Eva Marie.

Many Released WWE Superstars Now Free Agents

Michael Reichlin
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Over a dozen former WWE Superstars are now free agents.

As part of WWE’s ongoing effort to aggressively cut costs, the company held another round of mass layoffs on November 4th, 2021. Talent from NXT had 30-day non-compete clauses, while the main roster stars were bound by 90-day restrictions.

We are 90 days removed from November 4th, which means all of the following stars are now free agents and able to work anywhere:

  • B-Fab
  • Davey Boy Smith Jr
  • Ember Moon
  • Eva Marie
  • Gran Metalik
  • Karrion Kross
  • Keith Lee
  • Lince Dorado
  • Mia Yim
  • Nia Jax
  • Scarlett Bordeaux

In two more weeks, another batch of wrestlers will join the free agency market from the releases that took place on November 18th:

  • John Morrison
  • Top Dolla
  • Ashante Adonis
  • Isaiah “Swerve” Scott
  • Tegan Nox
  • Drake Maverick
  • Shane Thorne
  • Jaxson Ryker

It remains to be seen how many of these performers join the ranks of AEW, Impact, New Japan Pro Wrestling, MLW and the independent scene.

Sami Zayn Calls Out Johnny Knoxville At Jackass Forever Premiere

Chris Stephens
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Sami Zayn crashed the premiere of the “Jackass Forever” movie. He used the event as an opportunity to call out his current rival on Smackdown, Johnny Knoxville. The two also came to blows on Saturday night in the 2022 men’s Royal Rumble match.

After Zayn berated the Jackass cast and attending media for awhile, he was led away by security.

“‘Look at him, Johnny Knoxville, the man of the hour! Let’s hear it for Johnny Knoxville,” Zayn shouted. “Are you getting this, Entertainment Tonight? I’m the bad guy for coming and trying to show respect!”

Video of Zayn being kicked out of the event was posted to WWE’s social media accounts:

Zayn entered the Royal Rumble on Saturday in the #8 position. Johnny Knoxville would enter immediately after him in the #9 spot. Zayn eliminated Knoxville from the Rumble but was then eliminated himself shortly after by AJ Styles.

The 37-year-old recently re-signed with WWE. Zayn would later tell Pat Laprade that he is happy with his role in the company.

“It’s not the first time I’ve said it, but I’m really happy with my role with the company in recent years, especially the last year, year and a half,” a translation of Zayn’s comments read. “I’m doing the best job of my career, especially in terms of my character. I don’t know why people were really surprised. They have an idea in their heads that everyone in WWE is unhappy being there, unhappy with their role, that they want more or feel oppressed, or I don’t know what. For me, I’m really happy with my role and I can’t wait to see what I’m going to be able to do in the next few years.”

WWE NXT 2.0 Results (2/1/22): Ciampa & Breakker Team-Up, Six-Man Tag Match

Andrew Ravens
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The February 1, 2022 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

WWE NXT Results 

  •  
  • Imperium (GUNTHER, Fabian Aichner & Marcel Barthel) def. Diamond Mine (Roderick Strong, Brutus Creed & Julius Creed).
  • Raquel Gonzalez def. Cora Jade.
  • Sarray def. Kayla Inlay.
  • Joe Gacy def. LA Knight.
  • Wendy Choo def. Amari Miller.
  • Andre Chase def. Draco Anthony.
  • Bron Breakker & Tommaso Ciampa def. Legado del Fantasma (Joaquin Wilde & Raul Mendoza) (w/Santos Escobar & Elektra Lopez).

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Joe Gacy vs. LA Knight

04NXT

Joe Gacy wrestled LA Knight in a singles bout, which was set up in a video that WWE released on social media this afternoon. In the clip, Knight was cutting a promo about his issues with Grayson Waller backstage only for him to be interrupted by acy and Harland showed up. Gacy stated that he could help Knight, who didn’t want his help and said after tonight, he would have more restraining orders and told Gacy he would see him in the ring. 

The match was back and forth until Waller came out to hit a cutter to Knight on the floor, which resulted in Knight getting back into the ring so Gacy hit a clothesline for the win. Post-match, Waller said if Knight can beat Sanga next week then maybe he would consider lifting the restraining order. 

Cora Jade vs. Raquel Gonzalez

0NXT

Cora Jade vs. Raquel Gonzalez in a singles match took place. 

These two had a segment last week in the gym as Jade wanted to team with Gonzalez in the Dusty Classic, but Gonzalez doubted Jade’s ability to win. Raquel brought up how Dakota Kai used to do anything to win and did just that when they teamed together. The two ended up getting into a fight that had to be stopped.

The match was pretty much one-sided with Raquel dominating until she hit her finisher for the win. Post-match, Raquel agreed to team with her in the tournament. 

Six-Man Tag Team Match

2nxt

Imperium (Gunther, NXT Tag Team Champions Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner) went up against The Diamond Mine (Roderick Strong, The Creed Brothers).

Last week, Malcolm Bivens said in a promo  that Gunther was a dumb name and challenged Imperium to a six-man tag match. Julius Creed called Imperium “European pretty boys”, while Strong told Gunther to enjoy the win from the previous week as it will never happen again.

The match opened the show and was very good. WALTER pinned one of the Creed Brothers with a powerbomb after Strong was tossed into the steel steps. 

Handicap Match 

1nxt

Tommaso Ciampa and Bron Breakker vs. Raul Mendoza and Joaquin Wilde in a tag match was booked as the headliner. 

The match was set up last week when Escobar called out Bron to tell him he despised him for finding success fast in NXT. Breakker said he earned everything and Escobar was insecure and that if he wanted to face him then make the challenge. Escobar said he would do it on his own time, which is Vengancy Day. 

At the end of the show, the rest of Legado Del Fantasma made the match for next week. Ciampa showed up when Legado Del Fantasma tried to jump Breakker outside of the venue. 

The match was saved for the main event. After the babyfaces got the early advantage, the heels took over. Raul did hit a spring board dive off the top rope. After a few minutes of Bron selling, Bron fought back. Wilde went for a dive, but was pushed off the top rope and crashed through a table. Bron with his finisher to Raul for the win. 

Closer

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Finally, Kay Lee Ray hunted down Mandy Rose and demanded that Rose put her Women’s Title on the line next week. Rose agreed and Ray laid her out with her finisher to close the show. Earlier in the night, Ray had kidnapped the rest of Toxic Extraction. 

Brian Kendrick To Make AEW Debut on this week’s Dynamite

Andrew Ravens
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Former WWE Cruiserweight champion Brian Kendrick will debut for All Elite Wrestling on Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite.

Kendrick requested his release from WWE in December, as first reported by PWInsider. Over a month later, AEW’s latest match announcement shows that Kendrick is in fact gone from WWE.

Brian Kendrick is jumping right into the deep end of AEW. He’ll battle former AEW World Champion Jon Moxley when AEW returns to Chicago, IL.

Kendrick was last seen in action for WWE on the 205 Live brand in 2020. Aside from those bouts, he did work a few Saudi Arabia battle royal matches. He hasn’t wrestled on WWE Raw or Smackdown since December 2017, but did briefly appear on NXT 2.0 for a storyline with Harland that was supposed to lead to a match, but never happened. 

Behind the scenes, Kendrick had been serving as a producer with the company. He has yet to publicly comment on his departure from WWE. 

Nyla Rose on Transphobic Fan Sign Incident at AEW Dynamite

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling first signed trans wrestler Nyla Rose, shares her thoughts regarding a wrestling fan offensive sign aimed towards her.

On Dec. 22, 2021, Rose wrestled Ruby Soho on AEW Dynamite. A fan hoisted a transphobic sign for the AEW camera to see during the match. Rose responded by giving the middle finger, and her employers removed the male fan from the event. Sports Illustrated Justin Barrasso spoke with Rose about the incident that upset those that supported her and diversity.

Barrasso also transcribed the following quotes.

“For the most part, people understood why that sign was wrong,” Rose said. She continued, “Maybe that person didn’t quite understand the gravity of what they were doing. You want to boo, that’s cool. But there is a line. People might feel it’s a conflict of their beliefs by simply respecting someone else, but it’s not. You don’t have to understand or even agree with somebody’s situation to show them simple respect and kindness, like respecting their pronouns and respecting their way of life. I’d love for people to be cool with it, but if that’s not your thing, it’s not your thing. But shouldn’t people want to treat their fellow humans with a little respect and kindness?”

Nyla Rose’s on her Influence in AEW

As an African and Native American transgender wrestler in AEW, Rose is a role model for others. Although the article notes that Rose believes she is a wrestler and not a pioneer, the former AEW Women’s World Champion recognizes how influential she is.

“People from so many different walks of life have connected with me, and I think that’s wild,” Rose said. She continued, “I grew up a wrestling fan, and I found inspiration in my life from the things the wrestlers did. I’m going out there thinking, I’m just performing and putting on a show, but people have told me I’m a beacon for them. Black families have said they see me as someone who is so strong. As a Native person, I’ve heard from families that tell me it makes them so proud of their heritage that they’ve broken down in joy when they see themselves reflected in the Iroquois flag. The LGBTQ community has such a prominent figure [in Nyla Rose], and I understand the importance of that.”

Rose isn’t the only AEW wrestler from the LGBTQ community that had to deal with an offensive spectator. On Dec. 8, 2021, at AEW Dynamite, an instigator called Anthony Bowen a homophobic slur during his match. Like Rose, Bowens hopes to continue ignoring the hate and positively influence those who look up to him.

AJ Styles Doubles Down On Wanting To Face Edge At WrestleMania

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AJ Styles continues to call for a showdown with Edge.

Edge has said on WWE TV that he doesn’t have much time left in his career. It was a big talking point during his feud with The Miz before Maryse and Beth Phoenix entered the fray.

If Edge is indeed winding down the clock, retiring without having that big one-on-one match with Styles would be seen as a bummer to many fans. Styles remains optimistic.

Styles vs. Edge?

AJ Styles recently told WWE’s The Bump that he thinks we’re close to seeing him share the ring with Edge one-on-one. Speaking to DAZN, “The Phenomenal One” doubled down on those comments.

“I want Edge. I feel like it’s one of the last dream matches I have left. And the fact that it wasn’t possible a couple of years ago due to him not being cleared is something I really want. The fact he came back now makes that match a definite possibility, and I’d like to have it at WrestleMania.”

For many, Styles vs. Edge is just one of those matches that feels special. Not only are the two well-respected veterans but they’re also future Hall of Famers. Their names will be etched in history and a match between the two is the cherry on top.

Styles recently qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match. He isn’t expected to win it and if that hunch comes to fruition, it could open the door to that big WrestleMania match with Edge.

Killer Kross Says Fans May Be Disturbed With What He Does Next

Andrew Ravens
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Killer Kross, formerly known as Karrion Kriss, is plotting his return to pro wrestling. He will become a free agent this week, when his WWE non-compete clause expires.

The former NXT Champion star took to Instagram to reflect on the last two years of his career. Kross says wrestling fans have motivated him over the past few years, but they might be disturbed by what comes next.

I will not return in peace

– Killer Kross

“Much on my mind as of late as I come to a close on this final period,” Kross said. “In short; man, this was an incredible chapter of my life. Nothing but gratitude for every second. Thank you to everyone who came for the ride, and thank you for letting me take you on one as well. 2020 to now has been a challenging period in human history. I hope I was able to cast some relief for people during these times. You all brought me to life everyday and motivated me to find the best version of myself for YOU. As for the future…what you see next may disturb you, as I will not return in peace.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZa8D9luAtz/

After making a name for himself by working for various promotions such as Impact Wrestling, Lucha Libre AAA, and Lucha Underground, Killer Kross joined WWE in late 2020.

As Karrion Kross, he rose up the ranks quickly in NXT. He won the NXT Championship twice. He was called up to the main roster last year only to be later released.

It’s been reported that AAA is interested in bringing in Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux.

Top Dolla Believes He’ll Return To WWE At Some Point

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Top Dolla (AJ Francis) is no longer on the WWE roster, but he believes a return to the company isn’t far-fetched.

Dolla was a member of Hit Row along with Isiah “Swerve” Scott, Ashante “Thee” Adonis, and B-Fab. The group was praised for standing out within the WWE bubble but soon, everyone in the faction would be released.

Appearing on One-On-One With Jon Alba, Top Dolla said he’s got a lot of avenues he can explore but he isn’t closing the door on a WWE comeback.

“What I can actually do is go out and get opportunities on television elsewhere. I’ve been in Super Bowl commercials. I made the Super Bowl song for the Chiefs. I’m ready to tackle all aspects of what’s coming next by being able to do things that I love that my schedule limited before.”

“Do I think I’m done with WWE forever? No, just from some personal conversations I’ve had with people, I don’t. Do I think that I need to focus on myself right now? Absolutely. To be honest with you, I’ve been focusing on myself my whole life, so that isn’t anything new.”

Top Dolla can go in many directions now that he isn’t with WWE. He’s a former NFL nose tackle who has expressed interest in joining the XFL.

He also wrote the official Super Bowl song for the Kansas City Chiefs last year and is still very much involved in making music.

There had been reports of Top Dolla receiving backstage heat during his time in WWE. He responded to the reports by saying he was the one who was being disrespected.

Watch Top Dolla (AJ Francis) on One-on-One with Jon Alba:

H/T to WrestlingNewsCo for the transcribed quotes

Jade Cargill On Being Compared To Goldberg, Chyna’s Influence

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling superstar Jade Cargill appreciates fans comparing her to wrestling legend Goldberg.

The State of Florida Sports Podcast’s Tim Walters interviewed Cargill about her successful run in AEW. She kept her undefeated streak alive and won her 26th match on Jan. 28 against Julia Hart. The booking of Cargill reminds fans of Goldberg’s undefeated streak in WCW. The AEW TBS Champion finds it flattering when asked about the Goldberg comparisons.

“It’s amazing. It feels great. Being that I have no type of wrestling background prior to my first match Mar. 3. It’s breathtaking. It feels amazing for me to be compared to somebody with such a stature, and I’m blessed. Our owner Tony Khan put me in a remarkable position, and I’m grateful. I work hard, but I’m very grateful,” said Cargill.

Jade Cargill’s Undefeated Streak

AEW has treated Cargill as a dominant force in the women’s division since her first match. She teamed with NBA legend Shaquille O’ Neal to defeat Cody Rhodes and Red Velvet in her debut match on Mar. 3, 2020. Since winning the tag team match, Cargill has defeated the likes of Santana Garrett, Leyla Hirsch, and Thunder Rosa. To become the TBS Champion, Cargill also defeated Ruby Soho at AEW Dynamite on Jan. 5. At 26-0, it is unclear how long her employers will extend her winning streak.

How Chyna Influenced Jade Cargill

Later in the interview, Cargill revealed that WWE legend Chyna inspired her before getting into professional wrestling. She praised Chyna for her presence on TV and making her feel comfortable about her body, as Cargill loved to exercise and be fit growing up.

“…Chyna made you put down whatever you were doing and watch her. Her presence was unmatched. I don’t think anybody else to me, to this day, made me sit down and focus on what she was doing,” said Cargill. She continued, “…She made me love my body more than anything. She was different. She looked different than everybody else that was in the divas’ era. So she looked totally different, her build was different, her confidence was different, and I grew up very muscular, and the fact that she loved herself, she loved what she was doing, she loved her body, it made me love myself more than anything. If anything, she helped my confidence rise to a remarkable chunk, and I felt good about myself growing up.”

The AEW TBS Champion hopes to continue her success and influence young girls as Chyna did.

Dolph Ziggler Teases Match with NXT Champion Bron Breakker

Tyriece Simon
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Veteran Dolph Ziggler has an interest in challenging NXT Champion Bron Breakker.

After his loss against Angelo Dawkins on Monday Night Raw, Ziggler shared that he is unfazed by his defeat. He also commented on Breakker’s tweet poking fun at his elimination in the Men’s Royal Rumble match on Jan. 29. Ziggler threatened to confront the NXT rookie and defeat him for the NXT Championship.

“…There’s a lot of people online, who, if you saw them in real life, they wouldn’t say exactly the same thing. I mean, I think it’s Tyson or somebody, Mike Tyson probably has said, everyone runs their mouth until you see him in person. And they shut the hell up, or you punch him in the face, and that changes everything,” said Ziggler.

He continued, “…A lot of people ask me after matches like this, ‘Dolph, you good’? And I go, not good. I’m the best MFer we got. So maybe one of these days, those people that run their mouths online have to deal with me in person. So maybe, Breakker and his title, maybe I take it away from him. Maybe I stop by. Who’s to say?”

Dolph Ziggler Teasing NXT Appearance

Ziggler comments about Breakker isn’t the first time WWE teased his appearance on NXT 2.0. Alongside Bobby Roode, Ziggler confronted NXT 2.0 superstar LA Knight and hinted at competing on the developmental brand.

Ziggler isn’t the only WWE veteran that wanted to challenge an NXT 2.0 rookie. The company had AJ Styles involved in a quick feud with Grayson Waller and make appearances on NXT 2.0. Waller also showed up on Raw to promote his feud with the veteran and get fans interested in watching their match. The feud ended with Styles defeating Waller at NXT 2.0 on Jan.11.

It’s unclear if WWE will allow Ziggler to challenge Breakker for the NXT Championship. However, the company hints that Ziggler will appear on NXT 2.0 at some point.

Ronda Rousey Scheduled For Upcoming WWE Live Event

Chris Stephens
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WWE is advertising that Royal Rumble winner Ronda Rousey will compete at the March 6th live event from Laval, Quebec. This event had originally been scheduled for late December, but was postponed due to increased restrictions due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Rousey will team with former rival Sasha Banks against Charlotte Flair and Rousey’s training partner, Shayna Baszler. At the Royal Rumble on Saturday, Rousey seemed pleased to see Baszler when she entered in at the #30 position.

Sasha Banks and Rousey worked a program leading up to the 2019 Royal Rumble. Rousey then successfully defended the RAW Women’s Championship against Banks on that show.

Rousey is reportedly under contract with WWE through WrestleMania 39. She will be working a full schedule and it appears as though this includes working the house show tours, unless the show in Laval is an anomaly.

She’s is expected to be part of the Smackdown brand moving forward, with her likely choosing Charlotte Flair as her WrestleMania 38 opponent.

Rousey said on Monday’s RAW that she’ll make her decision regarding which championship she’ll challenge for this Friday on Smackdown. Friday’s show will take place in Oklahoma City.

Nia Jax on WWE Wanting Her in the Royal Rumble, Concussing Becky Lynch in 2018

Chris Stephens
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Nia Jax says WWE asked her to be in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match despite having been released from the company on November 4th. She also commented on what happened before Survivor Series 2018 when she concussed Becky Lynch in a segment on RAW.

WWE was doing the Smackdown vs RAW angle leading up to the Survivor Series 2018 PPV, and Lynch joined several Smackdown Superstars in an invasion segment on RAW. During a melee with the RAW roster, Lynch was concussed by a strike thrown by Nia Jax.

Jax recently appeared on Renee Paquette’s The Sessions podcast and addressed the incident.

“The producer of that match, I won’t name names, basically was like, ‘This needs to look real. Say sorry, later.’ We were all like, okay, cool,” Nia said. “Being the larger person, I feel as though people feel, ‘Oh, we can hit the shit out of her. She’ll be fine’, which is true. Like for the most part, like I get wailed and whatever. I’m okay.”

“I didn’t punch her. But it did connect. I didn’t even realize it was Becky. I honestly thought it was Lana,” Nia continued. “Then I look around and I’m like, Oh my gosh, there’s blood everywhere. Then I look and I’m like, Oh crap, Becky’s down.”

She added that Vince shrugged off the incident when she went to him. He reportedly just said, “Well, it’s not ballet.”

The incident ended up having a big impact on the build-up to WrestleMania 35. At Survivor Series, Lynch had been planned to face Ronda Rousey. With Lynch out, Ronda ended up facing Charlotte Flair on the show. It had at one point been Flair vs Ronda scheduled for the Mania main event. After Lynch returned, the main event of WM35 was changed to a triple threat.

Nia Jax Offered a Spot in the Women’s Royal Rumble

Jax also commented on being offered a spot in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match after having been released from the company last year. She detailed what happened when a WWE employee called and asked her about being in the match.

“I was like, ‘Fu*k no, I’m not coming back.’ and he was like, ‘Oh, well, we’d like to offer you this.’ I said, ‘First of all, I already know I’m still under my 90 days. You’re still going to be paying me anyway, so you’re not offering me anything. No, I’m not fu**ing coming back. I was like, absolutely fu**ing not.’ I was like, ‘Is this all this was?’ and he was like, ‘Yes.’ I’m like, ‘Okay, bye.’”

H/T to WrestlingNewsCO for the above transcriptions.

 

Impact Does Its Best TV Ratings In Close To A Year

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling pulled in the best ratings its done since February 2021 last week. On the heels of Mickie James being announced for the Royal Rumble match, Impact’s 1/27 show drew 182,000 fans and a 0.05 in the 18-49 demo. It’s the best rating Impact has done since the February 16th, 2021 show.

The 2/16 show last year featured the debut of Juice Robinson and David Finlay. It was also the first show since the No Surrender 2021 show that had taken place that weekend. The promotion was about 2 months into the storyline that saw Kenny Omega invade the promotion. Omega would win the Impact World Championship from Rich Swann that April.

In addition to the Mickie James “Forbidden Door” bump, Impact also has a storyline right now featuring several members of Ring of Honor invading the promotion. The Honor No More stable consists of Vincent, PCO, Mike Bennett, Matt Taven, and Maria Kanellis. Jonathan Gresham has also defended the ROH World Championship on recent Impact shows.

In the world title picture right now in Impact, Moose is gearing up to defend his championship against W. Morrissey next. They will face off for the belt on February 19th’s No Surrender 2022 show. Mickie James will also defend the Knockouts World Championship on that show against Tasha Steelz.

Ric Flair Says He & Wendy Barlow Were Not Legally Married

Michael Reichlin
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Ric Flair has announced he and Wendy Barlow are going their separate ways. On Monday, Flair issued a brief statement announcing their separation. He wrote on Twitter:

“After taking some time apart, Wendy and I have decided to go our separate ways. Please respect our privacy & our families during this time!

I will love & cherish all of our memories together forever, and I will forever be thankful for all she has done to make my life better!”

Ric Flair & Wendy Barlow

Was Ric Flair ever married to Wendy Barlow? News of their separation led to some confusion about their legal marital status.

They had a lavish wedding ceremony in September 2018 at the Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach, Florida. High-profile guests included The Undertaker, Dolph Ziggler and Dennis Rodman.

Flair regularly referred to Barlow as his wife. However, Flair now says they were never legally married In a statement to People on Monday, Flair set the record straight:

“It was just a ceremony. We were never married.”

– Ric Flair to People

Barlow told People they never applied for a marriage license.

The two have been living apart for the past six months.

Ric Flair’s Wives

Ric Flair was has been married four times. He married Leslie Goodman in August 1971. They had two children (Megan and David) before divorcing in 1983.

He married Elizabeth Harrell later that year. The marriage produced two children, Ashley (Charlotte Flair) and Reid. They divorced in 2006. He married Tiffany VanDemark in 2006. They divorced in in 2009.

Later tat year, he married Jacqueline Beems. They filed for divorce in 2012.

Riddle Was Originally Scheduled to Win the Royal Rumble (Report)

Chris Stephens
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Brock Lesnar won the men’s 2022 WWE Royal Rumble, but that was not the original plan. Just days after WWE’s latest premium live event, details are leaking out regarding the chaotic planning leading up to the Rumble.

Before WWE settled on Brock Lesnar winning, Matt Riddle and Randy Orton were each slated to be the last man standing, according to PWInsider.

In light of WWE ultimately going with Brock Lesnar, it remains to be seen if Riddle will still be in line for a main event push headed into WrestleMania.

Riddle qualified for the Elimination Chamber match last night on RAW by defeating Otis in a qualifying match. Meanwhile, his RK-Bro teammate Randy Orton was not at the show last night.

With Riddle having qualified for the Elimination Chamber match, it does not appear as though Riddle and Orton will challenge the Alpha Academy on the event for the RAW tag team titles.

It’s also worth noting that Orton did not appear in any of the backstage videos involving the scooter race between Riddle and Chad Gable on Raw.

No word yet on why Orton missed Raw. He was only in the Royal Rumble match for 2 minutes and 21 seconds after entering in at the #29 position.

He received a big ovation from his hometown St. Louis fans but was eliminated by Brock Lesnar after he and Riddle had eliminated Otis and Big E.

Heat on Shane McMahon From Royal Rumble Booking (Report)

Chris Stephens
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Shane McMahon worked as a producer for the men’s Royal Rumble match on Saturday. It’s a role that reportedly has gained him some detractors backstage in WWE.

According to a report from the Wrestling Observer, people backstage were upset with how hands-on McMahon was in booking this year’s Rumble.

“There was a lot of heat on Shane because Shane was one of the producers. In fact he was kind of the head producer of the Rumble. Then he had an idea of what the Rumble was going to be and a lot of that ended up being changed.”

Ringside News had earlier reported that, “A tenured member of the creative team told us that Shane McMahon ‘openly buried Jamie Noble’ and he ‘tried to book the Rumble around himself.'” 

McMahon had worked as a producer for the Rumble matches in 2020 and 2021. Reports are he was far more involved this year, however.

Shane McMahon WrestleMania Plans

The plans for Shane McMahon at WrestleMania currently are for him to have a match with Seth Rollins. Shane reportedly wanted Seth to appear in the Rumble match so they could kickstart their rivalry.

“Both Rumbles were changed over and over again,” said Dave Meltzer. “In fact, the Seth match with Roman was changed several times too. Essentially, the original finish was Roman Reigns was going to beat Seth Rollins.”

Shane McMahon at one point had been scheduled to be in the Elimination Chamber match as well. This would have furthered his rivalry with Rollins but that appears to have changed as well now.

PW Insider has reported that Shane McMahon will be a regular on the RAW roster.

Kofi Kingston on Royal Rumble Botch: ‘I’d Change Nothing’

Ryan Droste
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Kofi Kingston has become known over the years for his miraculous saves from Royal Rumble elimination. Walking barricades. Walking on his hands. Kingstons has truly done it all.

However, this year’s Royal Rumble saw Kingston attempt to save himself by falling from the ring into the ringside barrier. He was tossed off the ring by Kevin Owens and tried catching himself on the outside barrier without letting both feet touch the floor. However, his feet did touch (as shown on replay during the broadcast) and Kingston was eliminated from the match practically before he ever got started.

It was later confirmed that Kingston was indeed supposed to be in the match for much longer, including some big spots planned with Big E.

Kingston took to Instagram on Monday to comment on what went down. The comments were attached to a video clip showing his elimination.

Kingston wrote, “The past couple days on social media, I’ve gotten a lot of ‘Why would you think that was even possible?’ and ‘Why would you even try that?’ The answer to that question is quite easy: because of the potential reward. What if you were to succeed in overcoming what is deemed ‘impossible’?

“The sense of accomplishment felt when you beat the odds and brazenly defy the probabilities is purely ecstatic. Peoples questions then morph into ‘How in the world did you do that?!’ and ‘I never thought that would be possible!’

“But alas, it was not to be…this time…”

Kofi Kingston Royal Rumble 2022
Kofi Kingston at the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble

Kingston continued to expand on what happened, turning his experience into an example of how one can learn from failure.

“However, even in failure there is also a reward; one that may be more valuable than success,” he wrote. “That reward is: Self learning and growth. True strength. Failure forces you to take look within and learn about yourself. Do you mope around and sulk? Do you hide and feel sorry for yourself? Maybe for a little while. I think that’s natural. But then you use those emotions as a catalyst to push yourself and to drive yourself to be better.

“The castles of success are built in part from keystones of failure…

“Anyway, this isn’t a cry for sympathetic messages in the comments or anything lol. I just saw this as a great opportunity to encourage people out there who might be on the fence about trying something because it’s too risky or because they are afraid. Push yourself to try, even when you know the risks.

“I JUST SAW THIS AS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE OUT THERE WHO MIGHT BE ON THE FENCE ABOUT TRYING SOMETHING BECAUSE IT’S TOO RISKY OR BECAUSE THEY ARE AFRAID. PUSH YOURSELF TO TRY, EVEN WHEN YOU KNOW THE RISKS.”

Kofi Kingston on his WWE Royal Rumble botched spot

Kingston finished up his comments by writing, “In my case, all the possible risks became a reality: physical injury, the emotional weight of letting people down by literally falling short of delivering on their expectations, the risk of being laughed at and ridiculed for deciding to try the impossible.

“And still if given another chance in choosing whether or not to make the attempt…I’d change nothing. No guts, no glory. No risk it, no biscuit. No pressure, no diamonds. You gotta bet it to get it. All the quotes…

“Many great rewards come to those who push the limits…”

In the moment, it was curious that WWE even showed Kingston’s botch on replay. They could have ignored the fact that both of his feet touched the floor and moved on with whatever was planned.

However, it’s good to see Kingston using this moment to encourage others to try to accomplish things in spite of possible challenges. Kingston’s entire career has been a master class on how to achieve despite hurdles being placed in one’s way — culminating, of course, with an amazing WWE Championship victory at WrestleMania 35 over Daniel Bryan back in 2019. One of the best matches of the year and, so far, the peak of Kingston’s career.

Check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.

WWE RAW Results (1/31): Ronda Rousey Returns, Matches Set For Elimination Chamber

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the Heritage Bank Center in Cincinnati, OH. Ronda Rousey celebrated her Royal Rumble victory and Brock Lesnar picked his WrestleMania 38 opponent after winning the men’s Royal Rumble match. There were three Elimination Chamber Qualifier matches tonight on RAW.

RAW Results

  1. Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.
  2. The Miz def. Dominik Mysterio
  3. Austin Theory def. Kevin Owens to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match
  4. Angelo Dawkins def. Dolph Ziggler
  5. Riddle def. Otis to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match
  6. Bianca Belair def. Carmella
  7. AJ Styles def. Rey Mysterio to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Brock Lesnar Will Face Roman Reigns At WrestleMania & Will Be In The Elimination Chamber Match

Adam Pearce kicked off the show and announced that we are on the Road to WrestleMania. Pearce noted that Lashley will defend the WWE Championship inside the Elimination Chamber next month. WWE Champion Lashley interrupted and came to the ring with MVP.

Lashley claimed that he was a better mixed martial artist than Brock and a better WWE Champion. Bobby boasted about pinning Lesnar but left out the interference from Roman Reigns. Brock Lesnar then interrupted in his wrestling gear and strutted to the ring while laughing.

Brock grabbed a microphone and told MVP he will stick the cane right up his ass if he doesn’t shut up. Lesnar wondered what the pride in winning the title was for Lashley when he only won because of Reigns & Heyman. Brock told Lashley that he isn’t mad at him and it is all good. Lesnar added that it was a good contest and gave Lashley kudos. Brock spoke in 3rd person and said he now gets to choose his opponent at WrestleMania because he won the rumble.

Lesnar announced that he is going to face Roman Reigns but it is going to be title versus title and challenged Lashley to a WWE Championship match tonight. MVP tried to talk Lashley out of it as Lesnar taunted him. Lesnar called Lashley a chicken shit and Lashley stared at Brock but still left the ring. Brock continued to shout at him and call him a chicken shit again. Adam Pearce announced that Lesnar will be in the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match.

Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.

Rhea Ripley faced Nikki A. S.H. in the first match of the night. Nikki charged but Rhea showed off her power and launched Nikki across the ring. Ripley held Nikki up for a bit before planting her with a Suplex. Nikki rolled out of the ring to regroup and held her lower back in pain. Ripley chased Nikki out of the ring and she ran back inside. Nikki trapped Rhea in the ring apron and stomped her down as RAW went to a break.

Ripley battled back when RAW returned and leveled Nikki with a Clothesline. Rhea followed it up with a Dropkick and went for a Splash in the corner but Nikki got out of the way. Ripley crashed into the turnbuckle but shrugged it off and hit a Northern Lights Suplex for a near fall.

Rhea perched Nikki up on the top turnbuckle but Nikki caught her with a punch. Nikki followed it up with a Tornado DDT and went for the cover but Rhea kicked out at two. Rhea took back control and quickly put Nikki away with the Riptide for the pinfall victory.

Alexa Bliss’ Journey Back To RAW Continued

Alexa Bliss had another therapy session this week. Bliss said Lilly loved watching scary movies and we always had so much fun. The therapist gave Alexa a Lilly replica doll and told Alexa that this shouldn’t mean anything to her.

Another therapy segment aired in the third hour of the show. The therapist told Bliss that this was a replica Lilly doll bought on WWE Shop. Alexa held the doll and started getting emotional.

The Miz Outsmarted The Mysterios

The Miz faced Dominik Mysterio tonight. Rey Mysterio accompanied Dominik to the ring for the match. Miz taunted Dominik and didn’t take him seriously. Dominik responded by knocking Miz on his ass with a punch to the face. Miz went for a Clothesline but Dominik countered and sent him to the ropes.

Dominik went for the 619 but Miz rolled out of the ring. Miz shoved Rey to the floor and hit Dominik with a knee to the face. Miz pretended that Rey tripped him up and the referee kicked him out from ringside. Dominik was distracted and Miz capitalized with the Skull Crushing Finale for the pinfall victory.

Seth Rollins & Austin Theory Will Be In The Elimination Chamber Match

Kevin Owens came to the ring for an episode of the KO Show. Owens said we are on the road for the most “stupendous two nights of WrestleMania”. Kevin vowed to beat the “protected, wannabe superstar Austin Theory” tonight and qualify for the Elimination Chamber. Owens introduced Seth Rollins as his guest.

Rollins complimented Cincinnati and a “who dey!” chant broke out for the Super Bowl bound Bengals. Owens rolled footage of Roman Reigns getting himself disqualified and beating Rollins down at Royal Rumble. Kevin told Seth that he was “the Universal Champion of his heart” and Rollins thanked him. Seth turned his attention to Bobby Lashley and said he will be in the Elimination Chamber match.

Owens and Theory competed in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier match. Kevin Owens dominated the match early and lit up Theory’s chest with some chops. Theory battled back with a beautiful Dropkick and went for the cover but Owens kicked out at two. Owens set Theory up for a Cannonball but he rolled out of the ring. Owens chased after him and launched Austin into the barricade. Owens then hit the Cannonball and brought Theory into the ring.

Austin rolled back outside and regrouped against the barricade. Owens followed him again but Theory caught him with a boot to the face. Theory smashed Owens’ head into the steel steps and Owens screamed in agony as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Owens hit an Enziguri and followed it up with a DDT. Owens climbed to the top turnbuckle but Theory hit him with a forearm to the face. Owens hit a headbutt and went for a springboard Moonsault but Theory got out of the way. Austin connected with an awesome standing Blockbuster for a near fall.

Owens battled back with a Superkick and then a Swanton off the top rope for a near fall. Both superstars battled on the turnbuckle once again. Theory went for a Superplex but Owens countered into one of his own. Owens went for the cover but Austin Theory got his boot on the bottom rope at two.

Owens brought Austin out of the ring and went for a Powerbomb. Austin escaped into the ring and booted Owens in the face while he was in the ropes. Theory followed it up with the ATL for the pinfall victory. Austin Theory has qualified for the Elimination Chamber match for the WWE Championship and took a selfie to celebrate.

Angelo Dawkins def. Dolph Ziggler

Angelo Dawkins faced Dolph Ziggler tonight. Ziggler connected with a Superkick to start off the action and went for the cover but Dawkins kicked out. Angelo connected with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Splash. Ziggler connected with a DDT for a two count. Dawkins ducked under a Superkick and connected with Drill Bit for the pinfall victory.

Bianca Belair def. Carmella

Carmella faced Bianca Belair this week on RAW. Carmella rolled out of the ring right away to put on her mask. Bianca chased Carmella around the outside of the ring. Carmella stomped on Belair on the ring apron and beat her down for a bit. Carmella applied a Headlock in the middle of the ring but Bianca battled to her feet.

Bianca broke free and went for a Body Slam but Carmella escaped and slammed Belair to the mat before going back to the Headlock. Belair escaped again and connected with a Suplex. Bianca followed it up with the KOD for the pinfall victory.

Riddle Qualified For The Elimination Chamber Match

Riddle and Chad Gable had a scooter race tonight. Before the race, Riddle and Gable argued and Chad said it was a joke that a scooter race has been included in this competition. They then had a 50 lap race throughout the evening. Otis knocked Riddle over at the finish line and Gable won the race.

Otis battled Riddle following the scooter race. Adam Pearce announced that it will be an Elimination Chamber Qualifier. Otis sent Riddle to the corner and hit him with a flurry of punches. Otis followed it up with a Splash for a near fall. Otis beat Riddle down some more and knocked him out of the ring. Riddle got back in the ring but Otis hit him with a shoulder tackle and Riddle flew across the ring. Otis connected with a Body Slam and an Elbow Drop. Riddle battled back and unloaded some forearm strikes to the face.

Otis shrugged them off and dropped Riddle with a Clothesline. Riddle got in some kicks but Otis sent him across the ring with a Fallaway Slam. Riddle ducked under a Clothesline and connected with the Ripcord Knee. Riddle hit another knee strike and made his way to the top turnbuckle. Riddle hit a Floating Bro that landed on Otis’ knee and geared up for an RKO. Otis blocked it but Riddle hit another Floating Bro on Otis for the pinfall victory. Riddle has qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match.

The third competition will be a Quiz Bowl next week when RAW airs on SyFy Network.

AJ Styles Qualified For The Elimination Chamber Match

AJ Styles battled Rey Mysterio in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier match. The winner will join Lashley, Lesnar, Seth Rollins, Austin Theory, and Riddle in the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match. Styles and Rey locked up to start off the action. Rey rolled up Styles for a near fall and AJ applied a Headlock.

Rey escaped but Styles hit him with a shoulder tackle. Rey responded with a Hurricanrana that sent AJ to the corner. Mysterio hit another Hurricanrana off the middle turnbuckle but Styles responded with a Backbreaker. AJ went to throw Mysterio out of the ring but Mysterio landed on his stomach on the ring and on his feet on the floor. Styles couldn’t believe it and chased after him. Mysterio set AJ up for the sliding Splash but Styles got his knees up. AJ’s momentum was short-lived and Mysterio sent Styles into the barricade as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Styles was back in control and had Mysterio in a Headlock in the center of the ring. Mysterio escaped and connected with a Tornado DDT that sent both superstars to the mat. Rey hit another Hurricanrana and followed it up with a springboard Splash for a two count. Rey went for a Dropkick but AJ held onto the ropes and Mysterio crashed to the canvas. AJ quickly hit a Michinoku Driver and went for the cover but Mysterio kicked out.

Rey went for the 619 but Styles dodged it. Mysterio ducked the Phenomenal Forearm and connected with a kick to AJ’s face. Rey took a bit to go for the cover and Styles kicked out at two. Mysterio perched AJ up on the top turnbuckle and went for a Hurricanrana but AJ blocked it. AJ went for a Styles Clash off the top rope but Mysterio escaped. Rey hit the 619 and made his way back up to the top turnbuckle. Rey went for a Splash but AJ got out of the way. Mysterio still rolled up Styles but AJ kicked out at two and leveled Rey with a Pele Kick.

Mysterio countered a Powerbomb into a Senton and went back up to the top rope. Rey went for another Senton but AJ rolled through and connected with the Styles Clash for the pinfall victory. AJ Styles has qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match on Saturday, February 19th.

Ronda Rousey Will Pick WrestleMania Opponent On SmackDown, Lita Will Face Becky Lynch At Elimination Chamber

Ronda Rousey made her way to the ring in the final segment of the show and got a great reaction from the crowd. Rousey took a look at the WrestleMania sign and wondered if she should face Charlotte or “Rebecca”. Ronda said the biggest fight with any woman is always with her and that Rebecca is on her undercard.

RAW women’s Champion Becky Lynch said it was funny that Ronda said that she is on her undercard when she is only one that has been able to beat Rousey. Lynch joked that she wouldn’t blame Ronda for starting with an appetizer like Charlotte Flair in her first WrestleMania back. Lynch said she wanted to know who she is going to beat next and wanted an answer from Rousey. Ronda took Becky down and didn’t apply an Armbar, instead told Becky that she will get her answer this Friday on SmackDown.

Lynch got back on the microphone and started claiming Rousey was running away. Lita showed up and joked about how rude Ronda Rousey was before getting in the ring with Big Time Becks. Lita told Becky that she knew right when she met her that she would be right here in the main event. Lynch joked that she might have gotten in trouble a time or two for wearing her thong outside her pants like Lita and that she idolized her growing up. Lita then challenged Becky to a match at Elimination Chamber and Lynch declined.

Lita noted that Becky claims to never backdown from a challenge and Lynch started to make excuses as the crowd booed. Lita told Becky to just say she is scared and Becky accepted the challenge out of anger. Lita exited the ring as Becky was distraught that she just accepted a match with Lita.

Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns Confirmed For WWE WrestleMania 38

Andrew Ravens
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As expected, WWE will have Brock Lesnar challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Title at WrestleMania 38 in April. It’s unclear which night the match will take place on – April 2nd or 3rd. 

Lesnar ended up winning the 2022 Men’s Royal Rumble match to earn the right to this bout. Earlier in the night of the Royal Rumble event, Lesnar dropped the WWE Title to Bobby Lashley after Paul Heyman turned on his former client and helped Reigns’ attack on Lesnar when the referee was down as “The Tribal Chief” grabbed the title from Heyman to hit Lesnar with it. 

During the opening segment of Monday Night Raw, Lesnar interrupted the newly crowned WWE Champion. He announced the match with Reigns since it was his choice. However, since he was dressed to fight, he wanted a rematch with Lashley. He said the match with Reigns should be title vs. title. 

After MVP declined the challenge, Lesnar called Lashley a “chicken sh*t.” As a result, WWE on-screen authority figure Adam Pearce announced that Lesnar would be one of those 5 Superstars to be in the Elimination Chamber match where Lashley will defend his title on February 19th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

There will be qualifying matches including Rey Mysterio vs. AJ Styles and Kevin Owens vs. Austin Theory taking place on Raw to fill out the remaining spots in the match. 

Matt Hardy Confirms WWE Reached Out To Jeff About Returning for HOF Induction

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Matt Hardy has confirmed a report that WWE recently reached out to his brother Jeff about returning for a Hall of Fame induction.

Late in 2021, WWE released Jeff Hardy following a situation that occurred at a house show event. Jeff had competed alongside Drew McIntyre and Xavier Woods in the main event of a show in Edinburg, Texas.

Speculation ran rampant as Jeff appeared to be lethargic and exited into the crowd after giving McIntyre the hot tag. Jeff took pictures with fans and made his exit before the match finished. Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful broke the news that Jeff was let go after turning down WWE’s offer to enter a rehabilitation program. Last week, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that John Laurinaitis called Jeff about being part of this year’s Hall of Fame class.

According to Matt Hardy, the Observer report about Hardy hearing from WWE is true. During his latest Twitch stream, Matt says WWE calling Jeff about returning is a “real thing” that actually happened. Jeff wasn’t interested, but did request the results of the drug test he took around his WWE release. Lawyers had to get involved before Jeff got his hands on the results – but they came back clean.

Jeff Hardy & WWE

“He got a call, which this has been reported online, from John Laurinaitis and they had offered to induct him into the Hall of Fame and they said they wanted to do this. I know people have seen this online and that’s not made up.

“That’s a real thing that happened and he [Jeff] just asked for his drug test at the very end of the conversation and said, ‘No, I just want my drug test. I want the clean result,’ kind of the clearest thing if that makes sense and I think it should, especially given his history.

“So, after my brother and his wife dealt with WWE and the drug testing company quite a bit they actually spoke with a lawyer and kinda had them help them out a little bit. Just a couple of days ago he got the drug test back and the drug test is compliant. Everything was a negative, it passed on all levels.”

Matt later revealed that Jeff told him he simply knew his run in WWE had reached its end by the time he entered the crowd.

“I feel like Jeff was just kinda stressed out in many different ways about several different things. He just told me, confessed to me, said whenever he went over that guardrail he said he just knew he was done there.”

Reby, Matt’s wife, played devil’s advocate on behalf of some fans asking and brought up the theory that Jeff tried to get himself fired intentionally. Matt doesn’t believe that is the case.

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Jeff Hardy Released By WWE
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