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Tony Khan On AEW’s Live Event Schedule, Outdrawing Pro Sports

Chris Stephens
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Tony Khan recently sat down to talk with Wade Keller for an interview on PW Torch and during the discussion spoke about AEW’s live event schedule. He noted the process the company goes through to determine which cities to visit and how often they do so. Khan also spoke about how AEW’s live events regularly outdraw major sporting events.

“It’s not the most scientific process but it involves picking our best markets and looking where we’ve done good numbers and trying to make sure we cover some new markets,” Khan said of how the company determines which markets to visit.

He would continue to speak about the challenge of booking big arenas, noting that Rampages and PPVs are harder to book than Dynamite because they take place on weekends.

“We try to find the best venues, look at available dates at the big arenas, which is a big challenge,” Khan continued. “Wednesdays are sometimes a little bit easier to get the dates compared to Fridays for Rampage or a weekend for a PPV. Those weekend dates can be really challenging to find if they are booked way in advance at most of the arenas.”

Tony Khan On Visiting Markets Multiple Times

Keller asked Khan about going to markets a 2nd and 3rd time. Khan responded that AEW has had a great response when visiting their biggest markets, such as Chicago, Boston, and Philadelphia, multiple times.

“We did start to hit some markets twice through [before the pandemic]. In 2019, we were the #1 wrestling company in the world in tickets sold per event. In 2020, we were off to a great start and doing even better numbers before the pandemic hit,” Tony Khan continued.

“We had actually gone in early 2020 to some markets again and done really well coming back to Chicago and also we were coming back to Boston and Philly and had great advances there. So, it looked like it was really very strong. We had done a sellout again in Boston for our 2nd time through, and pretty close to a sellout in Philly.”

“We were seeing even before the pandemic the markets were ready to see us again and then after we spent over a year in Daily’s Place there was so much pent up demand for our shows.”

On Outdrawing Major Sporting Events

The AEW President also noted that they often draw better than major sporting events in leagues such as the NBA and NHL.

“There’s really a lot of top sports leagues right now that we outdraw and people talk about these big hot sports leagues and right now AEW outdraws a lot of major sporting events on a regular basis,” Khan continued.

If you use any of the above quotes please credit PW Torch with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcriptions.

AEW Rampage Results (11/5): CM Punk & Eddie Kingston, Adam Cole & Bryan Danielson In Action

Robert Lentini
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AEW Rampage aired from the Cable Dahmer Arena in Independence, Missouri. CM Punk and Eddie Kingston met face-to-face. Adam Cole squared off against John Silver and Bryan Danielson battled Anthony Bowens on tonight’s show.

Rampage Results (11/5)

  1. Bryan Danielson def. Anthony Bowens
  2. Red Velvet def. The Bunny to advance in the TBS Championship tournament
  3. Adam Cole def. John Silver

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Bryan Danielson def. Anthony Bowens

Bryan Danielson faced Anthony Bowens tonight on Rampage. Tony Khan booked the match after The Acclaimed complained about him being a bad boss.

Bowens got in some offense early and leveled Danielson with a shoulder tackle. Bowens followed it up with some chops to the chest but Danielson shrugged them off and applied an Armbreaker. Anthony escaped and Max Caster hit Danielson with a cheap shot as Rampage went to a commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Danielson unloaded some kicks for a near fall. Bowens connected with the Arrival DDT but Danielson battled back. Danielson sent Bowens out of the ring and then leaped onto both members of The Acclaimed with a Crossbody. Back in the ring, Bryan applied the LeBell Lock for the submission victory.

Eddie Kingston & CM Punk Had A Great Promo, Will Battle At Full Gear

CM Punk came down to the ring to a great reaction from the crowd. Punk invited Eddie Kingston out to “my ring” and Kingston’s theme hit. The music stopped and Kingston didn’t come out. Punk said maybe he just needs to talk some more because Kingston feels more comfortable being rude and interrupting. Kingston made his way to the ring and mocked CM Punk. Eddie mocked Punk asking for an apology and said he missed the show because he had to get tested for Covid. Kingston stated that Punk, Samoa Joe, Homicide, Amazing Red, were heroes of his. Eddie called CM Punk a low life scumbag for judging him and burying others to get his stuff in.

Punk added that it wasn’t just him that judged Eddie and Kingston was the one who fell short of the mark. Punk said he is not a fool for seeing the greatness in Eddie Kingston 15 years ago, but he is a fool for expecting it now because Kingston is a bum. Kingston got in Punk’s face and told him to stop smirking at him.

Eddie challenged Punk to a match at Full Gear and CM suggested a match at Elevation or Dark because it more of Eddie’s speed. Kingston called Punk a coward and got right in his face. Punk asked the crowd if they wanted the match and he accepted. Punk went to leave but Kingston stopped him. Eddie said he doesn’t care about winning at Full Gear, he just wants to beat CM Punk up. Eddie added that Punk should quit and leave again after the match and Punk lost it. CM Punk headbutted Eddie and AEW officials rushed the ring. They kept breaking free and jumping on each other until more officials rushed the ring to separate them.

Red Velvet Advanced In The TBS Championship Tournament

Red Velvet faced The Bunny tonight on Rampage in a TBS Championship Tournament match. Red Velvet ran down to the ring and attacked The Bunny right away. The Bunny rolled out of the ring to regroup and Red Velvet caught her with a Clothesline. Red Velvet started arguing with Jade Cargill in the front row and The Bunny capitalized.

The Bunny bashed Red Velvet into the steel steps and rolled her back into the ring. The Bunny connected with a slam and went for the cover but Red Velvet kicked out at two. The Bunny slapped herself a few times out of frustration before delivering a kick to Red Velvet’s face. Red Velvet connected with Final Slice for the pinfall victory. Red Velvet will face Jade Cargill next in the tournament.

Adam Cole def. John Silver

Adam Cole faced John Silver in the main event. Cole and The Young Bucks will battle Christian Cage and Jurassic Express in a Falls Count Anywhere match at Full Gear. Christian Cage hit Adam Cole with a Con-Chair-To 48 hours ago but apparently Cole has already recovered as if it never happened.

John Silver and Adam Cole locked up to start off the action. Silver showed off his strength and threw Cole across the ring a couple times as Rampage went to a break. When Rampage returned, Adam Cole connected with a Neckbreaker over his knee for a two count. Cole set up for the Last Shot but Silver was ready for it and countered with a Clothesline.

Silver connected with a German Suplex as Young Bucks and Dark Order argued outside the ring. Cole went for a low blow but Silver was ready and blocked it. Silver connected with a Powerbomb and went for the cover but Cole kicked out at two. Cole went for Panama Sunrise but Silver blocked it. Silver hit a couple Splashes before Cole hit a Superkick. Cole followed it up the Last Shot (Shining Wizard) for the pinfall victory.

WWE SmackDown Results (11/5): King Woods vs. Jimmy Uso, Roman Reigns Attacks

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana. King Woods faced Jimmy Uso tonight in the main event. Drew McIntyre issued an Open Challenge and Universal Champion Roman Reigns returned to SmackDown after a week away.

SmackDown Results (11/5)

  1. Shayna Baszler def. Naomi
  2. Los Lotharios def. Cesaro & Mansoor
  3. Drew McIntyre def. Ricochet
  4. Viking Raiders def. Madcap Moss & Happy Corbin via countout
  5. King Woods def. Jimmy Uso

Here are the takeaways from this week’s SmackDown:

New Day Interrupted The Bloodline

Universal Champion Roman Reigns and SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos kicked off this week’s show. Paul Heyman accompanied The Bloodline to the ring. Reigns said he was running around naked with his wife on an island and had a great week. Roman called Lesnar a dumbass for being suspended and brought up The Usos losing to New Day last week. Reigns said that New Day is not better than The Bloodline and gave Jimmy and Jey grief for losing. Roman noted that Jimmy got pinned and wondered how Jimmy was going to fix this issue. Jimmy went on a rant about how he is going to kick the crown off of Woods’ head and make him acknowledge the true Tribal Chief is.

New Day interrupted and Kofi Kingston told the crowd to lend them their ears so they can hear the creed of King Woods. Xavier said that he will make Jimmy Uso bend the knee in their match later tonight.

Sonya Deville Cost Naomi A Win

Naomi faced Shayna Baszler tonight on SmackDown. Kayla Braxton interviewed Sonya Deville backstage and she claimed that Naomi has confidence right now because she lit a fire under her. Shayna and Naomi locked up to start off the action. Naomi tacked Shayna to the mat and unloaded some punches. Shayna escaped and went for a Half Crab but Naomi booted her away.

Naomi connected with a Dropkick and followed it up with a Clothesline. Baszler planted Naomi with a release German Suplex but Naomi battled back with a Dropkick. Shayna and Naomi then seemed to have no idea what each other were doing and had awkward minute of shoving outside the ring. Shayna eventually slammed Naomi on the floor as SmackDown went to a commercial break. Naomi quickly rolled up Baszler when SmackDown returned for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Sonya Deville marched to the ring and claimed that Naomi grabbed the rope before the pinfall. Deville said it should have been a rope break and the win shouldn’t count. Sonya stated that she had no choice but to restart the match. Shayna then choked Naomi out with the Kirifuda Clutch. There were a smattering of boos but the crowd was most dead for this angle.

Los Lotharios Picked Up A Win

Los Lotharios (Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo) faced Cesaro and Mansoor. Garza and Carrillo dominated the action early and kept Mansoor isolated in the corner of the ring. Garza connected with a Back Body Drop and ripped off his pants to reveal his ring trunks. Angel focused his attack on Mansoor’s leg and applied a Half Crab in the middle of the ring. Mansoor battled to his feet and connected with an Enziguri to break the hold.

Mansoor hit a DDT and finally was able to tag in Cesaro. Carrillo tagged in and Cesaro greeted him with some uppercuts in the corner of the ring. Cesaro hit a Clothesline and then delivered an uppercut to Garza outside the ring. Back in the ring, Cesaro hit a springboard uppercut on Humberto and went for The Swing. Garza broke it up but Cesaro got him in the Swing. Carrillo broke it up and hit a Superkick. Garza tagged in and delivered a Dropkick to Cesaro’s face for the pinfall victory.

Drew McIntyre def. Ricochet

Drew McIntyre came to the ring and issued an Open Challenge. McIntyre asked who wanted to fight him and Ricochet accepted the challenge. Ricochet slapped McIntyre in the face before the match. Drew stared at him and beat the hell out of him in the corner when the bell rang. McIntyre hurled Ricochet across the ring and then bounced his face off the turnbuckle. Drew charged but Ricochet ducked and McIntyre tumbled to the outside. McIntyre slammed Ricochet on top of the apron and rolled him back into the ring.

Drew hit a Splash in the corner and launched Ricochet across the ring again. Mustafa Ali was briefly interviewed backstage during the match and said he has a lot in common with Ricochet. McIntyre hit Ricochet with a chop and went for a Clothesline but missed. Ricochet hit a springboard Crossbody and followed it up with a Moonsault. McIntyre hit a Suplex for a one count and sent Ricochet to the corner. Drew went for an Alabama Slam but Ricochet countered into a roll-up for a two count. Ricochet hit a Superkick and went for a Moonsault but McIntyre hit a Claymore in midair for the pinfall victory.

Viking Raiders Picked Up A Win

Happy Corbin & Madcap Moss welcomed the Viking Raiders as guests for an episode of Happy Talk. Madcap Moss and Happy Corbin controlled the action early and isolated Erik in the ring. Corbin hit a Clothesline and went for the cover but Ivar broke it up. Corbin hit Deep Six on Erik for a near fall. Madcap tagged in and Erik hit him with a knee to the face. Ivar tagged in and Clotheslined Corbin out of the ring.

Ivar hit Madcap with a Crossbody and then punched Corbin in the face. Ivar connected with a Senton and tagged Erik in. Erik hit Corbin with a Suplex and then slammed Ivar on top of Madcap in the corner. Ivar tagged in and Erik botched a slam on Madcap. Ivar climbed to the top rope and Happy Corbin dragged Madcap out of the ring. They then just left and got counted out.

Sami Zayn Showed Hit Row How To Make An Entrance

Sami Zayn ran into Hit Row backstage and said their entrance sucked. Sami wanted to show them how a proper entrance is done and they followed him. Sami rocked out and shouted that is how you do it into a microphone. Zayn said that is called being fearless and being in the present. Sami introduced Hit Row and Top Dolla said Sami pressed his luck and that he sucks. Hit Row surrounded Sami but ultimately let him go.

Roman Reigns Attacked New Day

King Woods faced Jimmy Uso in the week’s main event. Woods dominated the action early and Jimmy rolled out of the ring to regroup. Jey tried to fire Jimmy up but Woods caught him with a Dropkick. King Woods hit some chops to the chest and went for a Suplex but Uso blocked it. Jimmy bounced Xavier’s face off the top turnbuckle and slid him out of the ring. Woods got hung up on the bottom rope before falling to the floor as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Jimmy was in control and hit Woods with a knee to the face. Uso went for the cover but Xavier was able to kick out at two. Woods battled back and hit Jimmy with a knee to the face. Jimmy rolled out of the ring and Woods caught him with a Dropkick through the ropes.

Back in the ring, Woods made his way to the top turnbuckle. King Woods hit a massive Leg Drop and went for the cover but Jimmy somehow was able to kick out at two. Woods climbed to the top rope again but Jey distracted him. Jimmy crotched Woods on the top turnbuckle and lifted him up on his shoulders. Jimmy hit a Samoan Drop off the middle rope for a near fall.

Jimmy went for a Splash but Woods countered with a boot to the face. Jimmy rolled up Woods but Kofi had the referee distracted. Jimmy then tried to interfere but the referee caught him. Woods then rolled Jimmy up and used the tights for leverage for the pinfall victory.

After the match, King Woods told Jimmy to bend the knee and pointed his scepter at the mat. Roman Reigns attacked Xavier Woods and beat him down. The Usos beat Kofi Kingston down in the corner of the ring as Woods unloaded some punches on Reigns. Roman shoved him away and The Usos hit a couple Superkicks. Reigns then leveled Kofi Kingston with a Spear and told Jey to stomp on his leg. Roman then forced Woods to watch as Jimmy hit Kofi with a Splash on the leg. Reigns posed with the Universal Championship to close the show.

Why Hasn’t WWE Started Promoting This Year’s Survivor Series?

Andrew Ravens
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Fans have noticed that WWE has yet to fully start the build for the Survivor Series pay-per-view event, which is just a few weeks away from happening. 

The speculation is the card will feature WWE Champion Big E against Universal Champion Roman Reigns and SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair against Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch. As of this writing, WWE has yet to make those bouts official. 

There’s also been very little talk about those matches on television as the women’s bout was briefly mentioned during the Title Exchange segment a few weeks ago. A few weeks ago, there was a brief face-to-face between Big E and Reigns a few weeks ago.

Dave Meltzer reported in the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that the mentality in the company was to push Crown Jewel as hard as possible as that was the most important thing at the time. Now that the show has passed, the focus has been on the new rosters to settle in on television before eventually pushing the pay-per-view in the final weeks.

Big E is in a feud with Seth Rollins and Kevin Owens right now while Reigns hasn’t mentioned Big E at all. Historically, WWE does a Raw vs. SmackDown theme for the show. 

WWE presents the Survivor Series pay-per-view event on Saturday, November 21, 2021 in Brooklyn, New York at the Barclays Center that will air on Peacock. 

Booker T On WWE Roster Cuts: ‘I Hate To See It’

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Booker T isn’t happy with the latest wave of WWE roster cuts.

WWE made the dreaded announcement of a new crop of talent getting the ax on Nov. 4. Among those names were Keith Lee, Nia Jax, Karrion Kross, Scarlett Bourdeaux, Ember Moon, Franky Monet, and others.

Booker T On WWE Roster Cuts

Booker T discussed the WWE roster cuts during an episode of the Hall of Fame podcast.

“I hate to see it. Ember Moon, she’s one of mine so definitely I hate to see her get released. But one thing I always teach my girls is if you’re talented, cream always rises to the top, you’ll find a spot somewhere. Ember, she’s going to be okay. The business decisions as far as Scarlett, I don’t know the behind the scenes dealing that go on with stuff like that. Franky Monet, I know she was talented, I thought she was money and I thought she fit right in and she was doing a great job. She was one of the girls that I thought you could do pretty much anything with as far as title picture, angle wise, working with and bringing somebody up.”

Booker T went on to say that the business has changed over the last few years. Booker believes job security in the industry is vastly different from what it was when he was in the ring. He also expressed his belief that some of the names released didn’t reach a level to where they were almost bulletproof.

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcribed quotes

“I Don’t Think Cody Rhodes Cares About Being Booed”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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One AEW star doesn’t believe Cody Rhodes is bothered by fans booing him.

Cody insists he has no plans of turning heel in AEW but the fans haven’t taken too kindly to him. The boos rained down on Cody during his AEW Grand Slam match with Malakai Black. It wasn’t just the New York City crowd who turned on Cody Rhodes, however.

QT Marshall, the heel leader of The Factory, appeared on the Battleground Podcast and expressed his belief that Cody Rhodes doesn’t actually care whether or not fans boo him. 

“Yeah, I mean, well, it depends,” said Marshall. “I think they were booing him because, like, especially right now with Malakai, Malakai is cool. He’s fresh, he’s from the other place. So it’s like, we’re in the honeymoon phase of Malakai. So, I did expect that.”

It is hard, on the surface, to like him

QT Marshall Cody Rhodes
(Photo: AEW)

Marshall understands that Cody Rhodes can be a polarizing figure. Aside from his in-ring career, he’s a successful businessman and television star. This may rub some people the wrong way.

“On top of that, Cody is like a very polarizing figure, right? He’s got his own tour bus that suits. He’s rich. He says, he has a reality show. I mean, it is hard, on the surface, to like him, but at the same time, what has he done to deserve to get booed?

“I don’t know. You know, I punched Arn Anderson in the face. So I deserve to get booed. You know, Malakai kicked Arn’s head off, he deserves to get booed. I’m trying to think of one thing that Cody’s done that deserves booing from the fans. At the same time, as long as they’re making noise, I don’t think he really cares one way or the other.”

Rhodes ended up defeating Black in their third outing. He recently took on Andrade El Idolo on the Nov. 3 episode of Dynamite. A run-in from FTR cost Cody the match.

H/T to Fightful for the transcribed quotes

Adam Cole Shares Positive Message To Released WWE & ROH Talent

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Adam Cole has an uplifting message for those who are no longer employed by WWE and ROH.

It’s been a rough few days in the wrestling industry. First, word broke that Ring of Honor is going through a “reconceptualization” phase and has released all of its wrestlers. Then, a new wave of WWE roster cuts was announced.

Adam Cole Speaks On WWE & ROH Releases

Adam Cole appeared on Busted Open Radio and showed support for those who no longer have a wrestling company to call home. He also shared some words of encouragement.

“First of all, it always breaks my heart to hear stuff, whether it be a company like Ring of Honor, which I love dearly, going on hiatus for a little while, I hope they come back strong, hope they have the chance to. Like you said with the releases, pretty much to everybody who is in that boat right now where they’re not too sure what they’re gonna do going forward, I’m sure there’s a lot of stress going through their minds, but I wanna remind everybody that there’s a reason that they got to where they did.

“Ring of Honor’s an incredible company and the people who were in WWE who got let go, again your talent it spoke for itself. There’s a reason you were able to advance so far within the industry and get so far because a lot of people saw a lot of talent in you and a lot of people still do see a lot of talent in you. It doesn’t matter how long it takes. Again, if these people continue to have patience and continue to show the world how good they are, trust me when I tell ya it’s gonna work out.”

Adam Cole was in a situation where he could’ve either signed a long-term extension with WWE or take his talents elsewhere. Ultimately, Cole decided to sign with AEW. He has realigned with Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks.

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

Franky Monet (Taya Valkyrie) Releases Statement On WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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Franky Monet, who will very likely be returning to the name Taya Valkyrie shortly, has released a statement on her release from WWE. She offered thanks to Triple H and Shawn Michaels specifically.

“Well that didn’t go as planned! First and foremost I would like to thank WWE for allowing me to live my dream, even if it was cut short. To say I am disappointed would be an understatement, I’m confused, hurt, sad and honestly mad. I came there as one of the top luchadoras of our era and honestly leaving there a little broken,” Monet began her statement.

“I LOVED everyday when I got to go to work, being around the greatest minds in this business, getting to train in the BEST pro wrestling training facility in the world and see my friends everyday. I was completely enveloped in the industry. Thank you to Triple H, Shawn Michaels and the entire PC staff for welcoming me with open arms and allowing me to learn from you.”

The former Taya Valkyrie continued:

“I know who I am, I know what I’ve done and I know I have more to give. This is just another swerve in my journey that I didn’t expect but to be honest, my life has always been filled with those. Im a fighter, im stubborn and I am a very, very good pro wrestler.”

“Thank you to everyone that’s supported me through this chapter and thank you to everyone that will continue to support me into the next one. Time to let la WERA LOCA loose. Let’s make magic.”

Taya Valkyrie To Return Shortly

Kira Foster, aka Franky Monet, aka Taya Valkyrie, was trained by Lance Storm at the Storm Wrestling Academy in 2010. Although she had discussions with WWE about coming in early in her career, they never materialized. Instead she went to Mexico where she became a big star with AAA as Taya Valkyrie aka Wera Loca. She was part of the Los Perros del Mal stable led by the late Perro Aguayo Jr.

Valkyrie holds the record for the longest-single reign and most combined days spent with AAA’s Reina de Reinas Championship.

In 2016, she would debut in Lucha Underground as part of the World Wide Underground stable. That is where she would meet her now-husband, John Morrison.

In 2017, Valkyrie would debut with Impact Wrestling. She holds the record for the longest single-reign with the Knockouts Championship. In storyline, Valkyrie was arrested for the attempted murder of John E. Bravo which was meant to explain her departure from the company.

Vic Joseph and McKenzie Mitchell Announce Engagement

Chris Stephens
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Vic Joseph and McKenzie Mitchell have announced their engagement. Mitchell posted to social media to announce the news.

Joseph, real name Victor Travagliante, is the current play-by-play commentator for NXT and the 205 brands in WWE. Previously he has worked on NXT UK, RAW and Main Event as well. Before WWE, Joseph worked for the Cleveland Browns Radio Network covering Cleveland Browns games. He started with WWE in 2017.

McKenzie Mitchell was with Impact Wrestling from 2016 until 2019 when she signed with WWE. She works on the NXT broadcast team in addition to numerous digital media hosting roles with the company.

The couple went public with their relationship a year ago on social media.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CICsLQup27i/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=8486b59a-6ecc-4683-ac7f-de3fd005c0a2

Earlier this year, Jospeh appeared on After the Bell and spoke about advice John Cena gave him on his commentary.

“I happen to see Cena and I went up and said, ‘Mr. Cena, I’m Vic Joseph, I’m new and I’m doing 205 Live tonight and I wanted to introduce myself.’ He goes, ‘You’re new? I’m going to watch the show.’ I’m thinking he’s not going to watch the show. We do the show and I’m leaving, he’s still in the locker room area or wherever and I walk by and I said, ‘John, nice to meet you.’ He says, ‘Vic, come here.’ He walked me over and sat and talked with me about what I did for that hour. ‘Know the stories, know the transitions, you had this, don’t say this, lay out here.’ He ran through it all.”

Nia Jax Issues Statement Regarding WWE Release

Michael Reichlin
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Nia Jax has issued a statement following her release from WWE. Jax was among 18 wrestlers let go by the company on Thursday.

Amid reports that her vaccination status was a factor behind her departure, Jax says WWE did not mention vaccinations when informing her that her services would no longer be needed.

Nia Jax reveals that she was on a “mental health break” when WWE released her. She recently requested an extension to the mental health break, because she is still dealing with personal issues. “The next thing I heard, I was being released.”

Nia Jax wrote on Instagram:

“I usually keep my personal life private, but yesterday’s reports leave me with no option but to clarify matters. I recently took a short leave of absence from WWE for a mental health break. I’ve been working through so much – more than I can share – and so I took some time, with the full support of the company, to take care of myself.

Earlier this week, after WWE sent me my schedule to return to the ring for the November 15 show, I asked for an extension to my mental health break, feeling that I needed more time, and hoping I would have the ongoing support of the company I have given my all to for the past 7 years. I did not receive a response. The next thing I heard, I was being released. My vaccination status was never mentioned. I wasn’t given any choice or options.

It breaks my heart to be so abruptly let go, without consultation, when dealing with so much privately. I loved my career at WWE, I love the men and women I worked with, and I am going to need time to process this huge loss. I appreciate those people who have shown understanding and compassion during an incredibly difficult time.”

Nia Jax’s story is unfortunate, but its not unique. She is just one of 71 wrestlers released by WWE this year:

https://www.sescoops.com/news/staggering-tally-wwe-releases-2021/

Sabu Is Done Wrestling, But Would Return To Fight Brock Lesnar

Michael Reichlin
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Wrestling legend Sabu says he’s been forced into retirement due to injuries. After a lengthy career of putting his body on the line during each and every match, he’ll probably stick to autograph signings moving forward.

Sabu was a guest on this week’s edition of Wrestling Shoot Interviews. During his discussion with WSI, he admitted that he’s probably wrestled his final match.

“I’m not doing real good,” said Sabu. “I hurt my back about a year ago and it’s still been hurting. I wrestled a couple of weeks ago but I shouldn’t have. I’ve only wrestled like twice in the last year. I only went to the gym a couple of times the last year ’cause I hurt my back. I’m probably not gonna wrestle no more… I’m probably just gonna do autograph signings and personal appearance-type stuff.”

I’d definitely get back in the ring for…

Sabu
Sabu

Of course, this is professional wrestling. Fans are quite familiar with the phrase, “never say never.” So, what would it take to lure Sabu back into the ring?

“I’d definitely get back in the ring for Brock Lesnar, I’d love to wrestle him. Especially if it was my final match, I’d love to wrestle him.”

Sabu heaped praise on Brock Lesnar, saying that he’s “my kind of opponent.”

“He’s the best, he’s a shooter, he’s a good worker, he’s my kind of opponent. I like big guys, I like wrestling big guys. I don’t like wrestling guys like me because it’s not that interesting. It’s more interesting wrestling a guy like me against a guy like Brock Lesnar.”

Sabu also named Big Show and Mike Awesome as two of the best ‘big men’ he’s ever worked with.

Check out the Wrestling Shoot Interviews YouTube channel for more of their videos.

Kyle O’Reilly & Johnny Gargano To Work Dark Match At Smackdown Tonight

Chris Stephens
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2 of NXT’s biggest stars are scheduled to be at Smackdown tonight. According to a Tweet from John Pollock of Post Wrestling, Kyle O’Reilly and Johnny Gargano are both scheduled to work a dark match on the show from the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana.

“Per sources – Johnny Gargano and Kyle O’Reilly are scheduled for a dark match tonight in Evansville at the Smackdown tapings,” Pollock Tweeted.

It was reported back in September that Gargano’s contract with WWE was up on December 3rd. As for O’Reilly, earlier this month it was reported that his contract expires sometime next month as well.

Gargano first started working for WWE in 2015, with him officially signing with the promotion the following year. He is the first-ever NXT triple crown champion, having won the NXT Championship (1x), the North American title (3x) and the tag-team titles (1x with Tommaso Ciampa).

Kyle O’Reilly has been with WWE since 2017. He is a 3x NXT tag-team champion along with other members of the Undisputed Era. Along with Bobby Fish, he is also a 3x ROH World Tag Team Champion and 2x IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion in NJPW. O’Reilly is also a former ROH World Champion.

Bray Wyatt Teases His Next Move

Chris Stephens
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Bray Wyatt, Windham Rotunda, took to Twitter late last night. In typical fashion for him, the Tweet asked more questions than it answered about his next move. It’s possible that Wyatt was referring to the recent WWE roster cuts as well.

“What do we do now? We wait for the right place. We wait for the right time. Then we turn Rome to Ashes. “Groveling in the muck of avarice” I believe in you too,” Rotunda wrote on Twitter.

This is just speculation, but Wyatt used a snake emoji next to the line “Grovelling in the muck of avarice” which is very similar to a line from a famous Jake “the Snake” Roberts promo. Roberts was feuding with “The Million Dollar Man” Ted Dibiase at the time. The word avarice means “extreme greed for wealth or material gain.”

“I’m going to make you beg, Dibiase. You are going to get down on your hands and knees. This time you’ll be the one that’s humbled, this time you’ll be the one who is humiliated, and this time you’ll be the one that grovels for the money. And how appropriate that the money you grovel for is your very own. A victim of your own greed, wallowing in the muck of avarice,” Roberts said in a backstage interview from WrestleMania VI.

Update On Karrion Kross, Harry Smith & Other WWE Releases

Chris Stephens
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WWE released another 18 wrestlers on Thursday. Talent were told that budget cuts were to blame, but according to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there were other factors at play.

Karrion Kross & Scarlett

In the case of Karrion Kross, Vince McMahon reportedly had pulled him from television due the feeling that he wasn’t getting over. They were in the process of repackaging him again when the decision was made to cut both him and Scarlett.

“Vince McMahon had just pulled Kross from television, saying that he hadn’t gotten over and within the company they were told they were going to repackage him a third time,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

Harry Smith

Harry Smith, aka Davey Boy Smith Jr., was released after wrestling one dark match earlier this summer. The original plan for him was to be a star on the NXT UK brand but at the time he was signed, travel wasn’t opened up and so the decision was made for him to be on the main roster.

He got COVID shortly after his dark match and was told to keep quiet about it. Then they just did nothing with him and released him yesterday.

Franky Monet, B-Fab, Lucha House Party & Others

The NXT talent will all have 30-day no-compete clauses although Ember Moon was under a main roster deal and may have a 90-day clause.

All main roster talent will have 90-day no-compete clauses including Hit Row’s B-Fab who just signed a main roster deal last week.

In the case of Franky Monet, aka Taya Valkyrie, she had been pushed heavily on the old NXT but she had not been featured following the re-brand into NXT 2.0.

Age was also a likely factor in several releases. It was noted that WWE’s directive is to hire women under the age of 25 to attract the male 12-34 demographic.

“The new directives on hiring new women is the recommendations are 25 or younger,” Meltzer wrote.

Both Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado are said to have asked for their releases and were expected to be cut.

It was noted that all veteran talent on NXT were discussed as being possible cuts. There is also talk that some talent could be signed to 60-day tryout contracts moving forward.

As of this writing, WWE has released 71 wrestlers this year.

https://www.sescoops.com/news/staggering-tally-wwe-releases-2021/

Why was Bronson Reed’s Impact Wrestling debut delayed?

Chris Stephens
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Bronson Reed was expected to debut for Impact Wrestling at Bound For Glory. He ended up not being on the show, however. According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Reed is expected to sign with Impact. The reason he wasn’t on the PPV and hasn’t debuted yet is that he was still dealing with visa issues.

“Jonah Rock, the former Bronson Reed, was scheduled to debut here for Bound for Glory but he hadn’t gotten his visa. But this is the company he is expecting to sign with,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

According to comments he made recently to Wrestling Inc, it appears Reed has his visa issues handled now and he could debut for Impact soon.

“Well, I’m not at liberty to say exactly what’s going to happen, but I am at the moment, this week, getting everything confirmed with immigration, so everything should be good to go, wherever I do go,” Reed said.

The 33-year-old Australian had been with WWE from January 2019 until being released on August 6th this year. He wrestled two dark matches on the main roster in June and then lost the North American title to Isaiah Scott later that month. His final match in WWE was a loss to Adam Cole on the 7/21 NXT show.

Bronson Reed Explains Why He Missed Bound For Glory

Impact Results (11/4): Minoru Suzuki’s In-Ring Debut

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling on 11/4 continued the build to Turning Point later this month. The main event featured the in-ring promotional debut for Minoru Suzuki.

Impact 11/4 Quick Results:

  1. X-Division #1 Contendership
    Fatal 4-way
    Laredo Kid defeated Rohit Raju, Black Taurus, Steve Maclin
  2. Eric Young defeated Jai Vidal
  3. The Good Brothers vs FinJuice – No Contest
  4. Knockouts Championship
    Mickie James (c) defeated Madison Rayne
  5. Chris Sabin defeated Madman Fulton w/Ace Austin
  6. Moose, W. Morrissey & Minoru Suzuki defeated Josh Alexander, Eddie Edwards, & Matt Cardona

Laredo Kid Earns Title Match Against Trey Miguel

Laredo Kid picked up a victory in the #1 contendership match for Trey Miguel’s X-Division Championship in this week’s opening contest. After Steve Maclin took Taurus out with a suicide dive to the outside, it left Laredo and Raju in the ring together. Raju tried to roll him up and grab the tights but Laredo Kid kicked out and sent Raju crashing into Maclin on the ring apron. This allowed him to hit a Michinoku Driver for the win.

After the match, Miguel came out to congratulate his next challenger but both were attacked from behind by Steve Maclin. Miguel and Laredo Kid then worked together to fight off Maclin and sent him to the outside with a double dropkick to end the segment.

Eric Young Wins Squash Match

Eric Young cut a promo before making his in-ring return after 6 months this week. He said that Rhino made the wrong decision at Bound for Glory. He also said that his opponent, Jai Vidal, has the “disease” and Young has the “cure.”

Young then won quick with a piledriver in convincing fashion.

Bullet Club Cause No-Contest In Good Brothers vs FinJuice Match

The Good Brothers faced FinJuice this week in a non-title match. The match was later ruled a no-contest after all 3 members of Impact’s Bullet Club faction interfered. Hikuleo, El Phantasmo, and Chris Bey hit the ring as all 4 wrestlers were down. They hit low-blows and belt shots on all 4 and posed with the Good Brothers Impact tag-team titles to end the segment.

Later in the show, Juice Robinson and David Finlay complained in the back about Bullet Club’s interference. Scott D’Amore then made a match for next week between them and Bullet Club with the winner to face the Good Brothers for the tag titles.

Mickie James Retains Title Against Madison Rayne, Mercedes Martinez Next In Line

Some veterans of the Knockouts division squared off once again with the title on the line here. These two met 4x for the Knockouts belt in 2011, each winning twice. The finish of this match here came when James took out Kaleb with a K on the outside and then hit Rayne with a diving attack from the top rope for the win.

After the match, the winner of the Knockouts Knockdown tournament Mercedes Martinez came to the ring to confront the champion. Martinez respectfully addressed James but said that she was not there to praise the champion, she’s there to challenge her at Turning Point.

The Iinspiration Recruit Undead Bridesmaids To Take On Decay

It was an interesting week for the new Knockouts tag team champions, the Iinspiration. A show long angle took place involving them and former Knockouts tag champs, Decay. First, the new champs were scheduled for an appearance on Locker Room talk but the members of Decay haunted the set.

They later decided that they needed to recruit the Undead Bridesmaids to take on Decay. Cassie Lee and Jessica McKay seemed a little disturbed by all the spookiness going on. It looks as though the Undead Bridesmaids are willing to take on Decay for them, however. That match was later made official for next week.

Chris Sabin Defeats Madman Fulton

Ace Austin was seen wearing a “I Beat Chris Sabin” t-shirt backstage after defeating him last week. This week, Sabin took on Austin’s ally, Madman Fulton and won with a small package. Austin tried to attack him after the match but Sabin quickly escaped to the outside.

W. Morrissey Pins Eddie Edwards In The Main Event

The main event saw several potential feuds and angles take place. Minoru Suzuki and Josh Alexander appear to be on a collision course as Suzuki took him out with a Gotch-style piledriver near the end of the match. The finish came when Morrissey hit Edwards with a big boot followed by a power bomb for the win. The heels celebrated in the ring to close the show.

Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

Turning Point – November 20th

  • Knockouts Tag Team Championships
    The Iinspiration (Jessie McKay & Cassie Lee) (c) vs Decay (Rosemary & Havok)
  • X-Division Championship
    Trey Miguel (c) vs Laredo Kid
  • Knockouts Championship
    Mickie James (c) vs Mercedes Martinez

Next Week:

  • Digital Media Championship (BTI)
    Jordynne Grace (c) vs John Skyler
  • Undead Bridesmaids (Kimber Lee & Brandi Lauren) vs Decay (Rosemary & Havok)
  • Bullet Club (Chris Bey & Hikuleo) vs FinJuice (David Finlay & Juice Robinson)

Kristina Salen Departs As WWE’s Chief Financial Officer

Michael Reichlin
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WWE has announced Frank A. Riddick III has been named as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer & Chief Administrative Officer.

Riddick, a longtime member of WWE’s Board of Directors, will report directly to Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon.

Riddick replaces Kristina Salen, who participated on WWE’s Q3 earnings call on Thursday.

Salen posted the following message on her LinkedIn page regarding the departure:

“Today I’m tagging out at WWE. I started at WWE in the midst of the global pandemic and I am proud of what I accomplished with Vince McMahon’s leadership and the tremendous team. We returned to live event touring, exceeded expectations, raised guidance for 2021 and laid a strong foundation for the future. I look forward to WWE’s continued success in and out of the ring!”

WWE Team Executive Shakeup

WWE Conference Room
WWE Conference Room rendering (Mike Van Tassell)

Vince McMahon issued the following statement regarding Kristina Salen’s departure:

“I want to thank Kristina for her contributions to WWE and wish her well in her future pursuits.”

He also had this to say about Frank Riddick III, the new CFO & CAO:

“Working closely with Frank for many years, we have great confidence in his ability to execute our company’s strategy to increase revenues and drive shareholder value by engaging our global fanbase with phenomenal content,” said McMahon.

Riddick started with WWE during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a press release posted on the WWE Corporate website, he said, “We returned to live event touring, exceeded expectations, raised guidance for the year, and have laid a strong foundation for the future. I look forward to WWE’s continued success.”

Kristina Salen is not the only high-profile departure from WWE’s executive team. Earlier this week, it became public that Stan Stanski was out as Senior Vice President of Creative Services. This shocked a lot of people behind the scenes, as Stanski was well-liked and had been with the company for around 15 years.

More on that story here:

WWE Releases Senior Vice President Of Creative Services

H/T to Brandon Thurston and Lavie Margolin for surfacing this story

Update On Repercussions For Charlotte Flair Following Title-Exchange

Chris Stephens
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Charlotte Flair was reportedly escorted out of the building following backstage altercations with Becky Lynch and Sonya Deville after the title-exchange segment on Smackdown recently.

Flair reportedly went off-script by dropping the title belt rather than handing it over. She is said to have felt that the scripting of the segment made her and the championship “look weak.”

Flair will not face any further discipline for the incident, according to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

“Discipline her and you have to discipline quite a few people.”

Dave Meltzer wrote that a source told him her situation is difficult for a few reasons.

“Charlotte is a tricky situation,” the source reportedly said. “Not just because she’s a star in a division with very few stars. But because she’s not the only guilty party. Discipline her and you have to discipline quite a few people.”

Following the segment, Flair is said to have been confronted by both Becky Lynch and Sonya Deville backstage. PW Insider confirmed that Sonya Deville was quite upset by Flair going against the script in the segment.

“Two different sources described Sonya Deville as ‘mad enough to want to fight Flair’ and at one point, also having an argument with Flair backstage at Smackdown,” wrote Mike Johnson. 

Vaccination Status A Factor With Several WWE Releases

Chris Stephens
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WWE released 18 wrestlers on Thursday. We’re now getting word that some people’s refusal to get the COVID-19 vaccination played a direct impact on their departures.

The NY Post was first to report that Nia Jax was among the handful of people let go due to their vaccination status.

“A source with knowledge of WWE’s operations told The Post that one of the reasons Nia Jax, a former WWE Raw women’s champion, was released is that she is unvaccinated,” wrote Ryan Glasspiegel.

Update: Nia Jax issued a statement about her WWE release and says the company did not mention vaccination status when informing her she’s being let go.

Clearly it was not all budget cuts

Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline.com corroborated this story on Thursday’s episode of the Bryan and Lance Show. Alvarez says he heard some of the cuts were due to wrestlers being unwilling to get vaccinated.

“Yes, it is true. I’ve heard this from multiple sources, that there were individuals that were cut because they refused to get vaccinated,” Alvarez said on the show.

“So, clearly it was not all budget cuts. There were at least a small handful of names on that list that just weren’t going to get vaccinated and the company didn’t want to deal with it.”

The issue was also addressed by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

“Some of the talent released was due to them refusing to get vaccinated and not being big enough stars to get away with that,” wrote Dave Meltzer. He noted that it is believed 5 of the 18 were cut for this reason. One source noted the number could be larger than that, however.

A fully tally of everyone released from the company this year is available in the link below:

https://www.sescoops.com/news/staggering-tally-wwe-releases-2021/

WWE Releases: Staggering Tally For 2021

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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WWE is having an extremely profitable year thanks to lucrative television contracts and the longterm deal with Saudi Arabia. Despite more money rolling in than ever, the company has been firing wrestlers at a pace that has been difficult to keep up with.

Adding insult to injury, the company has been the party line that “budget cuts” are to blame. Former Champions, main eventers, announcers, referees and legends have all been let go. Some have found opportunities elsewhere, while others have yet to resurface in the wrestling business.

We’ve compiled a list of the wrestlers released by WWE in 2021. Sadly, this list has been updated many times. The running tally currently stands at over 80 people.

February

  • Lars Sullivan
  • Steve Cutler

March

  • Andrade

April

  • Billie Kay
  • Bo Dallas
  • Chelsea Green
  • Kalisto
  • Mickie James
  • Peyton Royce
  • Samoa Joe
  • Tucker
  • Wesley Blake

May

  • Alexander Wolfe
  • Drake Wuertz
  • Ezra Judge
  • Jake Clemons
  • Jessamyn Duke
  • Kavita Devi
  • Skyler Story
  • Vanessa Borne
  • Velveteen Dream

June

  • Aleister Black
  • Ariya Daivari
  • Arturo Ruas
  • August Grey
  • Braun Strowman
  • Buddy Murphy
  • Curt Stallion
  • Ever-Rise
  • Fandango
  • Killian Dain
  • Lana
  • Marina Shafir
  • Ruby Riott
  • Santana Garrett
  • The Bollywood Boyz
  • Tino Sabbatelli
  • Tony Nese
  • Tyler Breeze

July

  • Bray Wyatt

August

  • Ari Sterling
  • Asher Hale
  • Bobby Fish
  • Bronson Reed
  • Desmond Troy
  • Giant Zanjeer
  • Jake Atlas
  • Kona Reeves
  • Leon Ruff
  • Mercedes Martinez
  • Ric Flair
  • Stephon Smith
  • Tyler Rust
  • Zechariah Smith

November

  • Ashante “Thee” Adonis
  • B-Fab
  • Drake Maverick
  • Ember Moon
  • Eva Marie
  • Franky Monet
  • Gran Metalik
  • Harry Smith
  • Isaiah “Swerve” Scott
  • Jaxson Ryker
  • Jeet Rama
  • Jessi Kamea
  • John Morrison
  • Karrion Kross
  • Katrina Cortez
  • Keith Lee
  • Lince Dorado
  • Mia Yim
  • Nia Jax
  • Oney Lorcan
  • Scarlett Boudreaux
  • Shane Thorne
  • Tegan Nox
  • Top Dolla
  • Trey Baxter
  • Zayda Ramier

WWE Releases Keith Lee, Nia Jax, Karrion Kross, Eva Marie & More

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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WWE released a large group of popular Superstars on Thursday.

The company has severed business ties with the following list of performers, As first reported by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful:

  • Keith Lee
  • Nia Jax
  • Karrion Kross
  • Eva Marie
  • Ember Moon
  • Scarlett Bordeaux
  • Franky Monet
  • Mia Yim
  • Harry Smith
  • Oney Lorcan
  • B-Fab
  • Jessi Kamea
  • Zayda Ramier
  • Trey Baxter
  • Katrina Cortez
  • Jeet Rama
  • Gran Metalik
  • Lince Dorado

Budget cuts were once again cited as the reason for the releases. Sapp says the wrestlers received an email from John Laurinaitis, head of Talent Relations.

Earlier in the day, the company Q3 financial results and touted revenue of $256 million for the quarter.

Once again, the talent and fans are left stunned and wonder how WWE can drop the ball on so much potential.

https://www.sescoops.com/news/staggering-tally-of-wwe-wrestlers-released-in-2021/

Reactions

Several of the released performers took to social media to address their followers:

We will update this post as more details become available.

Additional reactions from the wrestling world

https://twitter.com/RealPaigeWWE/status/1456408582849662978

Michael Cole Shares He’s Suffering From Hearing Loss

Tyriece Simon
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WWE Smackdown Announcer Michael Cole revealed today that he has 65 percent hearing loss.

He appeared on The Pat McAfee Show with Pat McAfee to discuss sports. After a commercial break, McAfee joked with Cole about being deaf, and Cole acknowledged that he had lost partial hearing. He and McAfee also briefly discussed if his hearing loss resulted from his career in WWE or years as a news reporter before WWE.

“…I’m actually like 65 percent hearing loss, said Cole. He continued, “But that’s why they make these special in-ear pieces that go under my headsets on air, so I can actually hear.”

Michael Cole on The Pat McAfee Show

His appearance on The Pat McAfee Show gave a different look at Cole that Wrestling fans don’t see in WWE. Dressed in a Sweatsuit and flip-flops, he discussed his love for New York sports teams, particularly the New York Jets. He also spoke candidly about his career in the WWE and how he presently deals with the workload.

He discussed the challenge of covering Monday Night Raw, Smackdown, Pay-Per-Views, and NXT. Last year, WWE also promoted Cole to Vice President of Announcing. While he completed his tasks, Cole admitted that it was overwhelming for him. Now Cole focuses on Smackdown and PPV’s while also helping other announcers at their job. However, he shared that he has trouble keeping track of what’s going on in the WWE.

“…I don’t remember last Friday night. Until tomorrow when I can actually sit down and review what happened on the show last week,” said Cole. He explained that he has so much happening during the week, he’ll review last week’s Smackdown hours before a new episode.

Next June, it will be Cole’s 25th year as a WWE Announcer. He shared that his goal is to make it to 25 years with the company regarding his future. He also wants to help other announcers grow in their roles.

“June will be 25 years on the air here. I want to make 25 years because I don’t think there is anybody at least in our line of work that’s been on the air for 52 weeks a year for 25 straight years,” said Cole.

It’s unclear what Cole will do after next year’s anniversary. For now, He wants to be the best announcer he can be, even with his hearing loss.

Corey Graves Reflects On Biggest Commentary Flub

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Corey Graves has taken a look back at his biggest misstep as a color commentator.

Graves has been a key member of the broadcast team for WWE’s main roster since 2016. Since then, he has shared the booth with the likes of Mauro Ranallo, Michael Cole, Byron Saxton, and Jimmy Smith.

During an appearance on the Out of Character Podcast with Ryan Satin, Corey Graves discusses a mistake he regretted immediately during The Undertaker’s sendoff.

“Michael Cole and I were back at the kickoff desk doing the voiceover for whatever was happening in the ring and they were talking about The Undertaker’s history. I believe it was with Diesel when Kevin Nash came out. And Michael Cole said ‘It was this WrestleMania… that this happened,’ and I corrected Cole because I was so sure that that wasn’t the year that it happened. And I went oh no, we’re live, I said that and I just realized I’m wrong and Twitter let me know instantly that I was wrong.”

“It’s Michael Cole, He’s Usually Not Wrong”

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Graves continued, “It was in that particular instance, just because of the admiration and respect I have for Undertaker that I wanted everything to be perfect. That’s why I almost looked at Cole like Cole you idiot that wasn’t the year, and then I realized it’s Michael Cole, he’s usually not wrong. I should’ve just trusted the boss in that instance but yeah, that one I wish I could take back but I think they edited it out so it’s not the end of the world.”

Graves recently got some flak over his comments on Dana Brooke. During an episode of Monday Night Raw, Graves said that Brooke hasn’t accomplished much of anything and should cut her losses. Graves responded to the backlash, saying his comments were not a shoot.

WWE star Carmella recently announced that she and Graves are engaged.

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcribed quotes

AEW Star Potentially Close To Making His Return

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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One AEW star may be closing in on making his way back to the ring.

Since splitting from the Nightmare Family, The Factory has been ruffling the feathers of other AEW talent. That includes Paul Wight, although Wight got his revenge on QT Marshall at the All Out PPV event. There has been one member of The Factory who has been out of action for a while, however.

Anthony Ogogo Close To Making Return?

Back in July, it was revealed that Anthony Ogogo was taking time off due to having his tenth eye surgery. Ogogo is a former boxer who suffered damage to his left eye and has had to undergo numerous procedures. Back in March 2017, Ogogo was registered blind in his left eye.

In an interview with Daily DDT, QT Marshall delivered the good news that Anthony Ogogo is back in the United States and is ready to return at any time.

“He just came back. He was overseas getting everything taken care of, so we’ll see. I think it’s about right place, right time, and trying to figure out the right story as well. Just to throw someone out there is… my biggest thing for me personally, after 17 years, the last thing I want to do is go in there and take random bumps for no reason.

“I try to explain that to Anthony and everyone’s itching to get back. Right now, we have a huge roster of huge stars, so it’s just one of those things of going back to the drawing board and figuring it out. But in the meantime, he’s been training and working out and doing what he does. He’ll be ready when that call comes.”

Ogogo was last seen feuding with the Gunn Club. Since then, Gunn Club has turned heel so we aren’t likely to see Ogogo wrap up his issues with Billy Gunn.

Bobby Fish Teasing Animosity With Adam Cole

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Could Bobby Fish and Adam Cole be on a collision course at some point in AEW?

Fish and Cole were a part of the Undisputed Era faction in NXT. The two started the group along with Kyle O’Reilly. Eventually, Roderick Strong joined them. All four members of Undisputed Era made a name for themselves in Ring of Honor and dabbled into wrestling in Japan with NJPW prior to joining NXT.

Bobby Fish & Adam Cole No Longer Chummy?

Fish and Cole may have been tight as members of the Undisputed Era but things appear different now. Fish was released from his WWE deal back in August, while Cole decided not to re-sign with the promotion.

Both men now compete under the AEW banner but Bobby Fish claims he and Cole have yet to communicate. Here’s what he had to say on the AEW Unrestricted podcast.

“He didn’t say anything to me. We haven’t talked yet.”

When host Aubrey Edwards pointed out that a lot of people in AEW are busy backstage, Fish had his own theory.

“Yeah, Adam acts like he doesn’t know me.”

Fish went on to say that he still speaks with Kyle O’Reilly, whose WWE deal is reportedly expiring soon.

“Kyle and I still talk. We are definitely still close. Like we said at the top of this conversation, pro wrestling is strange in that way where you see some of the same people daily or weekly for X number of years and then things shift, and you don’t see that person anymore for a little while, but you never know when you’re going to cross paths again and what that frequency is going to be. And we’ll see. I feel like Kyle, Adam, Roddy, myself, however many years we’ve all had in the wrestling industry, we’ve all found a way to cross paths repeatedly.”

Given Adam Cole’s reputation for being one of the nicest people in the business, it’s likely that Fish’s comments are kayfabe. Many feel that Fish and Cole will inevitably cross paths on AEW TV. Whether they realign or go to war remains to be seen.

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcribed quotes

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