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Date For Next WWE Saudi Arabia Event Revealed

Anutosh Bajpai
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The next WWE event in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia called Crown Jewel 2021 will be held on Thursday, October 21 from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

According to reports from PWinsider, the decision for the schedule was made last week. There was talk of the event being held in the first Thursday of November as well but the officials ultimately settled for October 21.

The last WWE event in Saudi Arabia was the Super ShowDown PPV in February 2020. It took place from the Mohammed Abdu Arena in Riyadh with the Fiend defending his Universal title against Goldberg in the main event.

The company and the Saudi General Sports Authority had announced a 10-year partnership in 2018. Though they had to halt the deal after the Super ShowDown last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The officials have already started planning the card for the event. Reports suggest that WWE is planning to hold the King Of The Ring and Queen Of The Ring tournaments later this year.

The tournaments are expected to begin on Raw and SmackDown in early October. The finals are being planned for the upcoming event in Saudi Arabia.

There is no word on what other matches are being discussed for the event but we will keep you posted on the plans as more details about the show come to light.

Vince McMahon, Triple H & Stephanie Named In Lawsuit Against WWE Over Saudi TV Deal

Keith Lee Works Another Dark Match Before Raw

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Keith Lee was seen working a dark match again just before the Aug. 16 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

Lee went one-on-one with an enhancement talent inside the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. As one would imagine, this was a squash match that saw Lee nab the pinfall easily. Lee has been competing in dark matches since getting his win back over Karrion Kross on the Aug. 2 edition of Raw.

Keith Lee’s Absence Explained

Lee had been out of action for five months. While Lee teased an explanation for a while, nothing had come to light for quite a while. In a YouTube video, Lee broke his silence and revealed that he suffered from inflammation of the heart following a COVID-19 diagnosis (h/t Comic Book).

“I got a call saying there was something off with my blood. Some people might have experienced this thing where there’s an inflammation in the heart or lungs, for me it was the heart. And that led to very scary times. I was basically forbidden or any training outside of a light walk. So there was a fear that doing more than that there was a chance that I could up and pass away. So, for three or four months this was kind of the case and I had several MRIs on my heart.”

“Very fortunately, even though it took a long time we waited that amount of time, that allowed for the inflammation in my heart to eventually go down to normal. Even though the first MRI was bad and the second MRI was worse, over time things got better here and there. Eventually, after that visit, I was cleared to try and get back into some sort of shape. That’s where the real struggle is. But it took some time, and to be honest it wasn’t even certain that I was going to show up in Dallas (where he returned and challenged Lashley to a non-title match) in terms of on TV.”

Some have speculated that WWE could be testing the waters with Keith Lee to see if he’s truly 100 percent. Others believe that since he isn’t factored into SummerSlam plans this year, he’ll just stay active through dark matches. In his video, Lee admitted that getting back in ring shape has been his toughest task.

WWE RAW Results (8/16): Goldberg & Lashley, Title Match Set For SummerSlam, RK-Bro

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. It was the final episode of RAW before WWE SummerSlam this Saturday night. WWE Champion Bobby Lashley came face-to-face with Goldberg one final time before the PPV. A couple of vignettes for Elias were shown during tonight’s show. Elias walked away from a gravestone that read “Elias 2017-2021”.

RAW Results

  1. AJ Styles def. Riddle
  2. Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.
  3. Drew McIntyre def. Shanky & Veer in a Handicap match
  4. Damian Priest def. The Miz
  5. Mansoor def. Mace
  6. Randy Orton def. Omos via DQ
  7. Karrion Kross def. Jeff Hardy
  8. Charlotte Flair & Nia Jax def. Rhea Ripley & Nikki A.S.H.

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

AJ Styles def. Riddle

Randy Orton kicked off the show by saying that people have been asking him all week why he dropped Riddle with an RKO. He knows that Riddle just wants to be friends but he doesn’t need friends. Orton added that he would have defeated AJ Styles by himself last week and did not need Riddle’s help.

Orton said that he is facing Omos tonight and while he is a giant, he is also a bit of a jackass. Randy said he is going to hit Omos with the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment, R-K… Riddle interrupted and made his way to the ring. Riddle said that he knows Orton was just teaching him the proper way to hit an RKO last week and that Orton doesn’t have to explain himself.

Riddle said that Orton needs him in his corner for his match against Omos and suggested that they give RK-Bro another shot. RAW Tag Team Champions AJ Styles and Omos interrupted. Styles said that nobody cares why Orton hit Riddle with an RKO but he enjoyed it and wouldn’t mind seeing it again. Styles claimed that Omos was going to de-fang The Viper tonight.

AJ added that he doesn’t want Omos to have all the fun and challenged Riddle to a match. Riddle accepted and wanted Orton to say ringside. Orton stuck around for a bit before heading backstage. Styles and Riddle traded shots early with Riddle taking control with a Floating Bro outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Styles missed with a Splash and Riddle capitalized with a flying forearm to the face. Riddle connected with a German Suplex and bridged into a cover for a two count. Styles hit a series of kicks and connected with a Neckbreaker for a near fall. Riddle battled back and went for a Broton but Styles got his knees up. AJ locked in the Calf Crusher in the middle of the ring but Riddle was able to fight through the pain and reach the bottom rope to break the hold.

Riddle hit a knee to the face and then sent Styles into the turnbuckle with an Exploder Suplex. Riddle hobbled to the top rope but got distracted by Omos. AJ tripped Riddle up and planted him with the Styles Clash for the pinfall victory. Randy Orton will square off against Omos later tonight. Riddle was interviewed after the match and said he was just sad, man.

Rhea Ripley Pinned The Champ

RAW Women’s Champion Nikki ASH faced Rhea Ripley tonight with Charlotte Flair on commentary. Nikki will defend the RAW Women’s Championship against Charlotte and Rhea Ripley in a Triple Threat match this Saturday night at SummerSlam. Nikki connected with a Crossbody and fired up the crowd as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, ASH connected with a Tornado DDT and went for the cover but Ripley powered out at one. Nikki went for another Crossbody but Rhea caught her. Rhea hit a Northern Lights Suplex for a near fall and then followed it up with the Riptide for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Nikki attacked Charlotte at the announce table. Nikki rolled Charlotte into the ring and Rhea greeted her with a Clothesline. They then booted Charlotte around and out of the ring to end the segment. Later on RAW, Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce suggested that Charlotte Flair find a partner and they will sanction a tag match later tonight. Flair didn’t seem interested in that idea and angrily walked away.

McIntyre Warned Mahal Ahead Of SummerSlam

Drew McIntyre battled Shanky & Veer in a Handicap Match. McIntyre will face Jinder Mahal this Saturday at SummerSlam. McIntyre brought Angela (the sword) to the ring with him. Shanky and Veer controlled the action briefly but McIntyre soon took control. McIntyre hit Veer with a Neckbreaker and then delivered a Michinoku Driver to Shanky. Drew followed it up with the Claymore for the easy pinfall victory.

After the match, McIntyre vowed to embarrass Jinder Mahal at SummerSlam in a moment that will live forever. Drew asked the crowd if they think he will beat Mahal and they agreed with him. Shanky & Veer are banned ringside from the match at SummerSlam.

Damian Priest def. The Miz By Using The Brogue Kick, Morrison Left Miz Behind

John Morrison came to the ring for an episode of “Moist TV”. The Miz was his guest.

Morrison seemed to think that The Miz was faking his injury and Miz said he was not a liar. Damian Priest interrupted and said that before he beats Sheamus at SummerSlam he wants to know why Miz has had Morrison push him around in a wheel chair if he has been cleared for weeks.

Miz told Morrison that Priest was just trying to spin everything around and turn them against each other. John Morrison suggested that Damian Priest face Miz tonight. Miz complained that he wasn’t fully ready for this and Priest shoved him in a kiddie pool that was in the ring.

United States Champion Sheamus joined commentary for the match. The Miz tried to give Sheamus a high five but the Celtic Warrior declined. Damian brought Miz back into the ring and Miz immediately began faking another injury. Priest send Miz to the ropes but he collapsed to the apron. Miz tripped up Damian and hit a double axe handle off the top rope.

The Miz danced around the ring and hit a few It Kicks. Priest punched Miz in his injured leg and hit him with some kicks to the chest. Damien leveled Miz with a kick to the face but Miz responded with a boot of his own. Miz asked Morrison for the drip stick but Morrison pulled it away. Morrison then walked to the top of the ramp and watched as Priest mocked Sheamus by beating his chest. Damian leveled Miz with a Brogue Kick for the pinfall victory.

Sheamus flipped out and called Damian a disrespectful scumbag. Sheamus shouted that this is his gold around his waist and it will never touch Damian’s grubby little paws. Sheamus noted that he may have a broken face but vowed to kick Damian’s head off of his shoulders this Saturday at SummerSlam. Miz and Morrison had a conversation backstage. Morrison said he was hurt and wanted to show Miz what it is like when someone you are relying on turns on you. The Miz told John that he gets it and wants to move on. Morrison agreed and Miz wondered what they should do at SummerSlam. John said “the wetter the better”. New Day were dancing around in the background during the conversation.

Mansoor def. Mace

Mace squared off with Mansoor tonight on RAW. T-Bar and Mustafa Ali were ringside for the match. Mace dominated the action early and hit a Chokeslam. Mansoor battled back and connected with a flying forearm. Mustafa Ali hit Mace with a Dropkick and Mansoor capitalized with a cover for the victory.

Eva Marie Slapped Doudrop

Eva Marie was rude to Doudrop backstage before an Alexa’s Playground segment. Eva said that Doudrop blew it last week. She told Doudrop to go to Alexa’s Playground and take Lilly the doll. Bliss was with Lilly in the playground and said she was excited to put an end to the Eva-Lution this Saturday at SummerSlam. Doudrop showed up and grabbed Lilly despite Alexa warning her. Doudrop stared at the doll before handing it back to Alexa and walking away.

Later on the show, Eva Marie got pissed that Doudrop didn’t bring back the doll. Eva said that this was like Doudrop showing up and slapping her in the face. Eva slapped Doudrop in the face twice and walked away.

Riddle Saved Randy Orton, RK-Bro Will Challenge For The RAW Tag Titles

Randy Orton faced Omos to begin the third hour of RAW. AJ Styles was ringside for the match. Orton went for the RKO right away but Omos blocked it. Omos connected with a Body Slam and posed in the ring as Styles cheered him on. Omos beat Orton down for a couple minutes and then launched him to the corner.

Omos charged but Orton was ready and slammed him into the turnbuckle. Randy got in some shots but the big man knocked him back down with a punch. Omos threw Orton to the corner again and went for a Splash but once again Orton got out of the way.

Orton went for the RKO again but Omos blocked it and sent Orton out of the ring. Omos distracted the referee and AJ Styles got in a cheap shot. The referee caught it and the match ended in a DQ. After the match, Styles rolled Orton into the ring and instructed Omos to beat him down some more.

Omos threw Orton out of the ring and followed him out there. Omos hurled Orton over the barricade and onto the concrete floor. He lifted Orton back up and carried him back to the ring. Styles paced around the ring before setting up for the Phenomenal Forearm. Riddle’s music hit and he rushed the ring. Riddle hit Omos with a Dropkick and Clotheslined Styles out of the ring. Omos climbed back to the apron as Styles stumbled around. Omos opted to carry AJ Styles backstage instead of getting into the ring with Riddle.

Riddle offered to help Orton up and Randy took him up on it. Orton asked for a microphone and told Riddle that respect is something that is earned. Randy stated that Riddle has had his back after everything he has done to him and has earned his respect. Orton laughed and said RK-Bro is back and shook Riddle’s hand. Randy then gave Riddle a hug and Riddle took the microphone. Riddle told Randy that he made him so happy and announced that they will challenge Styles & Omos for the RAW Tag Team Championships at SummerSlam.

Karrion Kross def. Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy faced Karrion Kross again tonight. Before the match, Karrion Kross attacked Jeff Hardy during a backstage interview. Hardy still controlled the beginning of the match and connected with an inverted Atomic Drop. Jeff went for the Twist of Fate but Karrion countered into the Kross Jacket in the middle of the ring. Jeff tried to get out of it and reached for the ropes but ultimately tapped out. Karrion Kross will defend the NXT Championship against Samoa Joe this Sunday night at NXT TakeOver.

Charlotte & Nia Jax def. Rhea Ripley & Nikki A.S.H.

Rhea Ripley & RAW Women’s Champion Nikki A.S.H. teamed up to face Charlotte Flair & Nia Jax. Nia and Nikki started off the match in the ring. Jax shoved Nikki to the corner and trapped her there. Nikki escaped but Nia shoved her tot he canvas. Jax lifted Nikki up but she countered into a Sleeper Hold.

Jax broke free by bashing Nikki into the turnbuckle and then gave Nikki a stink face in the corner. Charlotte leveled Nikki with a boot to the face outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Nikki connected with a slam and tagged in Rhea Ripley.

Rhea hit Charlotte with a Clothesline and followed it up with a headbutt. Ripley knocked Jax off the apron and delivered a Dropkick to Charlotte’s face. Rhea followed it up with a Northern Lights Suplex for a two count. Ripley hopped to the top turnbuckle and went for a missile Dropkick but Flair jumped out of the way. Shayna Baszler was shown watching backstage shuffling a deck of cards as Nia pleaded for a tag. Nia got the tag and hit Ripley with a Samoan Drop. Flair tagged herself back in and hit Natural Selection on Rhea for the pinfall victory.

Goldberg Hit Lashley With The Spear

Goldberg made his way to the ring for a face-to-face with WWE Champion Bobby Lashley. Goldberg said that there was something important that he needs to address, and brought up Lashley & MVP talking all day about fatherhood last week during their promo. Goldberg’s son was shown in the crowd and he introduced him. The crowd gave a nice reaction to Gage. He claimed that his son was the reason he came out of retirement and that he wants him to see who Goldberg really is.

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley interrupted with MVP and walked to the entrance ramp. MVP stated that normally Goldberg lets his actions do the talking and wondered if Goldberg has realized he is outmatched. MVP added that Goldberg saw that it was going to be different this time when he locked eyes with Lashley. MVP claimed that Lashley was more dangerous, explosive, and dominant than Goldberg.

Lashley got into the ring with Goldberg as MVP stayed on the ring apron. Bobby stated that Goldberg is playing with house rules and the house always wins. Lashley told Goldberg that he will leave him with just enough so that he can tell his family and friends that he had the privilege of Lashley ending his career. The WWE Champion added that when you step into the ring, you step in “the house of the All Mighty”. Goldberg shouted that is “bullshit” and dropped the microphone. Lashley took a swing but Goldberg ducked and hit a Spear. Goldberg posed with his son on the ramp to close the show.

AEW Makes Good With Indie Promotion After Daniel Garcia Removal

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AEW has received praise for reimbursing an independent promotion.

Daniel Garcia recently appeared on AEW Dynamite on Aug. 11. He went one-on-one with Darby Allin. Despite the loss to Darby, Garcia showcased his technical skill and showed AEW fans what he has to bring to the table.

Garcia had been scheduled to wrestle for St. Louis Anarchy on Aug. 20. He has been pulled from the event. While losing Garcia isn’t ideal for the promotion, St. Louis Anarchy expressed gratitude to AEW for reimbursing them for the travel money they spent.

“Shout out to AEW for reimbursing us on travel we had bought Garcia for Friday. Not a lot of bigger companies would of done that. The purpose of us is to get talent ready for them. We wish Garcia the best and hopefully we see him in Anarchy soon.”

Garcia apologized to St. Louis Anarchy and vowed to make it up to them by appearing at an event in the “near future.” It’s important to note that there wasn’t a reason given for Garcia’s absence from the card. This Friday night will be the second episode of Rampage, so time will tell if AEW needs Garcia for that show.

Garcia has been emerging as one of wrestling’s feel-good comeback stories despite playing a heel on television. Garcia’s life was nearly taken in a car accident back in January 2019. Garcia ended up walking out of the crash with a broken femur, fibula, and tibia.

Daniel Garcia made his first appearance for AEW earlier this month.

Royal Rumble Might Move To February, Possible Location

Andrew Ravens
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WWE recently announced over 30 new live events that included house shows, TV events, and pay-per-view shows for the rest of 2021. The company has even started early discussions about the early 2022 schedule of shows. 

WWE has already confirmed that they will hold a pay-per-view event on January 1, 2022. Fightful Select reported the front runner to host the Royal Rumble next year, which is St. Louis, Missouri. 

As of a month ago, those in WWE were under the impression that this city would be the end game, and until the venue and city are officially announced, it isn’t a guarantee.  Some in WWE have speculated that WWE could end up hosting this show in Seattle, which had been considered, but that’s not confirmed. 

WWE did confirm today that this year’s Survivor Series will take place in Brooklyn, NY this November then a soon-to-be-announced themed PPV, likely TLC, is set for December. 

Per the report, there has been significant internal discussion about next year’s Royal Rumble could actually happen in early February for the first time in history. WWE has always held the show in January with it kicking off the road to WrestleMania. 

WWE presents the SummerSlam pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 21 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada at Allegiant Stadium.

Sting Hypes His First Wrestling Match On TNT In 20 Years

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Wrestling legend Sting is set to compete on TNT for the first time in 20 years.

Sting will be teaming with Darby Allin to take on 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match on the Aug. 18 edition of AEW Dynamite. While Sting has been a regular character on AEW since his promotional debut back in Dec. 2020, this will be his first match on TNT since March 26, 2001.

In a press release, Sting discussed making his in-ring return to TNT.

“My relationship with TNT goes back more than 25 years, so having the opportunity to wrestle on the network that housed some of my most important moments is pretty surreal. The return of crowds has already been electric enough over the past month and a half, but there’s going to be an extra surge of adrenaline in Houston knowing that we’re live on TNT on Wednesday night.”

AEW head honcho, Tony Khan, also chimed in.

“When we first launched AEW, I was ecstatic to bring professional wrestling back to TNT after such a long absence. So many wrestling fans, myself included, watched Sting defeat the legendary Ric Flair 20 years ago in that last match on TNT, and now it’s such a thrill that Sting will finally return to the ring on Wednesday Night Dynamite to team with Darby Allin against 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match. This historic match on Wednesday in Houston is just another example of AEW’s commitment to bring wrestling fans the great moments that they deserve.”

Sting has played a vital role in AEW since debuting for the company. He has aligned himself with Darby Allin. Sting is often seen at ringside during Darby’s matches. Sting has only had two matches with AEW, both tag team matches that resulted in victory.

What are you expecting for Sting’s in-ring TNT return?

Fuego Del Sol On AEW Contract: ‘I Didn’t See It Coming’

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Fuego Del Sol has revealed what he knew about his big AEW Rampage segment.

On the debut episode of Rampage. Del Sol battled AEW TNT Champion Miro. The stipulation was that if Del Sol won, then not only would he take the gold but he’d also be offered a contract with AEW.

Del Sol was unable to defeat Miro. After getting the early jump on the champion, Del Sol was stopped in his tracks after eating a Machka Kick. Miro then applied Game Over and Del Sol was forced to tap. Miro then ripped up Del Sol’s contract, or at least he thought he did.

Following a commercial break, Sammy Guevara, Del Sol’s close friend, walked out and AEW President Tony Khan handed him a contract. Guevara entered the ring and revealed that Del Sol is All Elite.

During a Twitch stream, Del Sol revealed that he was unaware that he’d be getting a contract on television.

“They told me to lay there and after commercial comes back, get your standing ovation. ‘Hey, these people love you,’ Bryce (Remsburg) was getting it in his ear, ‘Hey, lay here, after commercial break, stand up, get your standing ovation, these people love you. I stood up, I thought, ‘Hell of a match, fun night.’ Sammy Guevara’s music hit, my heart dropped into my stomach because I knew what was happening in that moment. I was overwhelmed with emotion.

“I get goosebumps. I enjoyed the match so much. I was so amped all day about the match. I had this vision in my mind. Three DDTs. I was on cloud nine all day. We filmed the package they aired before the match, the night before, and it felt big, but I had no idea that they were going to do that after the match. Sammy was dressed nice and I didn’t even think about it. I was so focused on the match that everything else was white noise. I was laser-focused on Miro. It was perfect because I didn’t see it coming.”

Del Sol’s comments confirm what Tony Khan told Sports Illustrated. The AEW boss said the moment that Del Sol received his AEW contract on television was a “complete shoot.”

Fuego Del Sol only has one win in AEW. That victory was a tag team match so he remains winless in singles competition. With a fresh contract in hand, however, that figures to change soon.

CM Punk Shares Cryptic Message Ahead Of AEW Rampage

Andrew Ravens
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After waiting a few weeks, fans are just days away from the heavily speculated AEW debut of CM Punk on Friday’s episode of Rampage. 

Punk seems to be having fun teasing the fans on social media as he dropped an “All Elite” reference during commentary at the CFFC fight over the weekend and then posted a cryptic message on his Instagram Stories. 

The post had the numbers: 05, 11, 21. Fans quickly picked up on how the first two numbers are from Punk’s hottest years in the wrestling business. It also references the three times he signed a full-time wrestling contract.

2005 would’ve marked Punk’s time in ROH while the second number was when he re-signed with WWE and had a huge run that summer that included his famous pipebomb promo. Obviously, 2021 would be the year when he signed with AEW.

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It was reported several weeks ago that Punk had been in talks about an in-ring return with AEW being the most likely landing spot. It was all but confirmed when they announced a special edition of Rampage on August 20th from Chicago, Illinois at the United Center, which sold out right away.

CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast

First Post-All Out Dynamite in Cincinnati ‘Closing In On Sellout’

BJ Bethel
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All-Elite Wrestling Dynamite at Fifth-Third Arena in Cincinnati has sold around 8,000 tickets three weeks prior to the Wednesday Sept. 8, 2021 event, according to a staff member at UC’s ticket office this morning. The arena’s capacity for the show will be near 10,000

It will be AEW’s first TV after the All Out PPV on Sept. 5 and its first show in Cincinnati. The show will be a homecoming for Jon Moxley and Karl “Machine Gun” Anderson. Moxley is from Cincinnati while Anderson grew up in Northern Kentucky.

AEW has 3,756 ticket for Dynamite in Houston on Wednesday, according to WrestleTix. Friday’s “The First Dance” Rampage show at the United Center in Chicago is sold out as is the Sept. 5 All Out PPV at NOW Arena. According to Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, 5,000 tickets (around 50 percent capacity) remain for both Rampage and Dynamite shows prior to the PPV at the same venue.

Moxley and Anderson grew up in the area and trained in Cincinnati. Moxley trained under Cody Hawk and Les Thatcher at former WCW and WWE developmental territory Heartland Wrestling Association in Cincinnati. Anderson trained with Thatcher at the HWA and later with Roger Ruffen at Cincinnati’s Northern Wrestling Federation’s BoneKrushers wrestling school before moving to the New Japan Pro Wrestling Dojo in Los Angeles in the mid-2000s.

AEW tried to book the Heritage Center (Cincinnati’s former US Bank Arena) early in its touring days, but the venue has an exclusivity agreement with World Wrestling Entertainment.

The arena, which is located on the UC campus, will have capacity of around 10,000 according to the university. The UC ticket office told SEScoops.com it expects the event to be sold out. This will be the first major wrestling show at the arena since it underwent renovations in 2018. AEW will tape the Friday, Sept. 10 episode of Rampage the same night.

Roman Reigns Reacts To Jimmy Uso’s DUI Arrests

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Roman Reigns has spoken out on Jimmy Uso’s history with DUI arrests.

Jimmy is currently involved in the biggest storyline of his pro wrestling career. He has aligned himself with his cousin, Reigns, who is known as “The Head of the Table” on SmackDown. Despite the opportunity, Jimmy once again found himself in legal trouble.

On July 5, Jimmy was arrested in Pensacola, Florida. Jimmy had been speeding and police administered a breathalyzer. Jimmy was well above Florida’s legal drinking limit, which led to his arrest. It wasn’t the first time Jimmy was busted for DUI as he was caught in 2011 and 2019. There was also an incident in 2019 where he was arrested in Detroit for disorderly conduct and obstruction of justice.

During an interview with the New York Post, Reigns discussed Jimmy’s history of legal issues.

“[I don’t] condone that kind of behavior or decision-making. [It’s] not a great light to be shining [on WWE].

“We’re all human, we’re all cynics, we all make mistakes. Instead of what some people might feel you should give up on somebody or maybe turn your back on that type of behavior, that’s one way to do it. But I don’t think that’s the way to push through and gain experience or make progressive movements of becoming a better man or a better human. So for me, it was diving into it with great attention, great love and very thorough communication to make sure my family is continually bettering themselves and putting themselves in a position to make better decisions.”

Jimmy is currently one-half of the SmackDown Tag Team Champions along with his brother, Jey. The two very well could be involved in the main event of SummerSlam, which will feature a Universal Title match between Reigns and John Cena.

Riddle Talks Whether Or Not Adam Cole Can Succeed On Main Roster

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Riddle has weighed in on whether or not he believes Adam Cole can succeed on the main roster.

The WWE future of Adam Cole has been a hot topic in the world of pro wrestling. Cole has been a top star on the NXT brand since 2017. As of late, however, NXT has reportedly been in the process of major changes. On top of that, Cole’s brief contract extension is set to run out soon and as of now, he has not re-signed long-term.

The general consensus is that if Cole decides to stick around with WWE, he’ll be brought up to the main roster. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Riddle discussed whether or not Cole can shatter the glass ceiling.

“Adam Cole is amazing at what he does. He’s one of the best wrestlers in the world, in my personal opinion. He’s very charismatic, has a good look, everything else. I don’t know, the main roster’s the main roster. A lot of people dread going up there because they don’t know what’s gonna happen to them and as they should be. The indies is like a small pond, and then NXT is like a small ocean, and then when you get to the main roster, you are in the ocean with all the wild animals and the currents and everything else. It’s just a different beast, and sometimes you get lost in the shuffle.

“You really do because there’s so many people, and it’s not like nobody’s talented. Everybody at this level is somebody. Adam Cole will be successful wherever he goes. He’s too good not to be. He cares too much. He’s too passionate. If he goes to RAW, he’ll be successful. If he goes to SmackDown, he’ll be successful. If he stays at NXT, he’ll be successful. He can do whatever he wants.”

Riddle has been able to find success on the main roster. In fact, he’s currently involved in his most high-profile angle to date. Riddle is teaming with future Hall of Famer Randy Orton and fans of Raw and SmackDown have taken a liking to him.

How do you think Adam Cole would fare on the main roster?

Ember Moon Update: “I Am Not Injured”

Chris Stephens
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NXT star Ember Moon says she is not injured, despite a report that was circulating online last week.

Moon last appeared on NXT TV on July 13th, when she lost to Dakota Kai. She was scheduled to face Sarray on last week’s episode of NXT. Prior to bell time, however, WWE sent out a notice that she would be replaced by Dakota Kai in the match.

Moon commented on having to be pulled from the match, revealing that she’s been dealing with an “extremely rough month.” She was “angry and gutted” to miss last week’s NXT, but hopes to be back soon.

News site PWInsider ran a report that Ember Moon was dealing with an injury, but she’s setting the record straight. She tweeted on Monday:

Last fall, Moon was interviewed by Daily DDT and spoke about returning to NXT.

“I was like, ‘Man, I’m really digging this NXT vibe right now.’ Raw and SmackDown are doing great, but I’m sitting here thinking, ‘I don’t know if I fit in there anymore.’ I didn’t know if Ember Moon still belonged on Raw and SmackDown. I was looking at NXT and all my friends from the indies were there killing it. Not that any of the other girls weren’t, I’m just saying that when you’ve traveled the road for a hot dog and a handshake, you have a different friendship and admiration for those people than you do with coworkers.”

Jon Moxley Files Trademarks For Team With Sami Callihan

Chris Stephens
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Jonathan Good, better known to wrestling fans as Jon Moxley, filed some interesting trademarks on August 11th. Moxley filed to trademark the terms “The Switchblades” and “Switchblade Conspiracy” for wrestling purposes.

The terms are former team names used by Jon Moxley and Sami Callihan. Joe Gacy has also been associated with them in the past. In 2010, Moxley and Callihan held the WXW tag-team titles for 310 days. They defended the titles for months in Germany before dropping them to the American Wolves on a show from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Moxley and Callihan are set to team up for the first time in years this October. They will reform the Switchblade Conspiracy on a show for Callihan’s Pro Wrestling Revolver promotion.

In 2019, Callihan spoke about his relationship with Moxley on the WINCLY podcast.

“It’s a weird relationship of ‘little brother, big brother’ and it’s always the two of us striving to see who’s better. We’re both weird human beings and messed-up individuals. One day we’re gonna get back in the ring together as grown-ass adults and see who’s better.”

Some thought Moxley may have chosen Sami Callihan as his partner at NJPW Resurgence. Moxley teamed with Yuji Nagata on the show and lost to the Good Brothers, however.

Multiple Wrestlers Pulled From NJPW Shows Due To COVID-19 Protocols

Chris Stephens
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New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced that multiple wrestlers have been pulled from upcoming shows due to COVID-19 protocols. IWGP World Champion Shingo Takagi and BUSHI were both pulled after presenting with fevers. They are awaiting the results of PCR testing for COVID-19.

It was originally reported that the 6 wrestlers who were in the same match as Bushi and Takagi on Saturday would miss upcoming shows as well. Those 6 wrestlers are Tetsuya Naito, SANADA, EVIL, Yujiro Takahashi, Gedo and Dick Togo. Naito, SANADA, EVIL and Takahashi all ended up working the Sunday show despite this, however.

Will Ospreay returned to NJPW at Resurgence in Los Angeles on Saturday. He commented on Takagi missing a show while he is now cleared to return.

“REAL champ returns. Interim champ has to miss a show. Coincidence. Just say the word NJPW,” Ospreay Tweeted. ““Interim” I’ll be on the first flight over.”

At NJPW Resurgence, Ospreay criticized NJPW for stripping him of the title when he only needed 4 months off. He unveiled his IWGP World Championship belt and claimed to still be the champion. He referred to Shingo Takagi as an “interim” title holder. Ospreay also announced he will not be participating in the G1 Climax tournament this year.

Lance Archer Says He Would “Happily” Put Nick Gage Through Glass

Jake Skudder
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AEW star and the former IWGP United States Champion Lance Archer recently spoke to Nick Hausman on The Wrestling Inc. Daily. The former champion discussed several topics during the interview, including Deathmatch King, Nick Gage.

“I’ll gladly put him through some broken glass and kick his ass,” Lance Archer revealed. “I’m good with that.”

Archer would also discuss the ‘forbidden door’ angle that has seen performers from several companies cross the borders over the past year. NJPW, NWA, AEW, IMPACT and more have seen wrestlers from around the globe perform on their cards.

Lance Archer on The Forbidden Door

“I think it intrigues everybody,” Archer noted. “I think that’s the fun part. Again, we keep going back and forth on the Forbidden Door, and the fact that we have a working relationship with New Japan right now, we have a working relationship with Impact.”

“And whatever it is, the different people that are coming in and out of AEW on a consistent basis” Lance Archer added. “I think that would be interesting for anybody. The fact if there was some kind of supershow  that involved several different companies with talents from every one of them, fighting each other, fighting for their championships, whatever the case may be. I think that’s the perfect element for a place like MSG.”

Gisele Shaw Wins PROGRESS Women’s Championship

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS Wrestling star Gisele Shaw won the company’s Women’s Championship over the weekend.

Former Champion Kanji had to relinquish her title due to injury. The former Champion confirmed that she had re-injured her arm following a devastating near career-ending injury a few years ago.

The planned triple threat match for the night between Alexxis Falcon, Mercedez Blaze and Gisele Shaw then became a contest with the Women’s Championship on the line.

Gisele Shaw Wins The PROGRESS Title

Shaw would win the match to solidify her career on the British wrestling stage, with the Lance Storm trained star also holding the Rev Pro Women’s Championship.

The ‘Quintessential Diva’ appeared on WWE’s The Bump a few months ago and called out the likes of Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch.

Gisele’s next challenger has yet to be revealed by the company, although the company are likely to announce if she will appear at the next Chapter show in the coming week.

Shaw has been one of the bigger stars coming out of the new era of PROGRESS Wrestling, with the Canadian/Filipino performer having main evented a large number of shows since the company began running from the Theatre Peckham.

Here are the full results from the show which is available to watch on Peacock, WWE Network or demandPROGRESS:

  • Big Guns Joe b. Kid Lykos II
  • Chris Ridgeway b. KEINEN
  • Nick Riley b. LK Mezinger
  • Man Like DeReiss b. Danny Black
  • Taonga b. Ronnie Knocks
  • Hari Singh b. Spike Trivet
  • Dean Allmark b. Ethan Allen
  • Charlie Sterling b. Kid Lykos
  • Warren Banks b. Luke Jacobs
  • PROGRESS Women’s Championship Match – Gisele Shaw b. Alexxis Falcon and Mercedez Blaze to win the vacant title

Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair Pulled from Consecutive Live Events

Alex Laybourne
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Last-minute changes happen all the time in wrestling. However, this past week both Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks failed to appear at two consecutive WWE Live events. This is despite both being advertised. Their absences were only announced as the crowd entered the arena.

Currently, no reason has been given for the absence of both superstars. Sasha Banks is due to challenge Belair for her Smackdown Women’s Championship in just seven days at Summerslam. The fight will be the anticipated rematch of their Wrestlemania classic which saw Belair defeat Banks and claim her first WWE title.

The first fight between the pair won Banks and Belair an ESPN ESPY award in July this year for the Best WWE Moment.

Bianca Belair has established herself as a dominant character on Smackdown ever since Wrestlemania. While Sasha Banks took a break from wrestling, until her July return. The return was widely celebrated by fans who were eager to see the pair clash once more.

Could WWE Be Protecting Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair Ahead of Summerslam

We are living in a world where Covid is the first word to our tongues whenever something is cancelled, or someone is sick. However, another valid reason for their collective absence could be far simpler. With Summerslam around the corner, WWE will not want anything unfortunate to befall their two stars. Both Sasha Banks and Belair are two of the biggest draws of Summerslam. Arguably the second biggest match on the card behind Reigns and Cena.

It makes sense therefore for WWE to limit their unnecessary action in the ring for fear of injury. This close to the biggest pay-per-view of the company calendar, it could also be seen as a sensible move to protect their talent and preserve the integrity of their feud. While this doesn’t necessarily explain why they were advertised for the shows in the first place, that could be explained by business minds want to sell tickets.

While there is every chance the pair could be stricken with Covid, or isolating for some reason, it is purely speculation. Everybody in the wrestling world will have their eyes on the ring as these two women take centre stage. If Sasha Banks can reclaim her crown remains to be seen. One thing that is for sure, they are going to tear the house down doing it.

Kurt Angle Praises Christian Cage, Thinks He’s Underappreciated

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Kurt Angle believes Christian Cage is world-class.

Cage has had quite a career. He’s made his mark for WWE, TNA Wrestling, and now AEW. Cage is fresh off an Impact World Championship victory over Kenny Omega on the debut episode of Rampage. It is actually his first Impact World Title run as he had only won the NWA gold twice under the TNA banner.

During an edition of The Kurt Angle Show, the former Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time world champion in WWE and TNA expressed his belief that Cage is a special talent.

“Every once in a while we touch base. He’s such a good guy. We were best friends, you know, Edge, Christian, myself, and Rhyno. We really were best friends. We spent a lot of time together and that time was so valuable. I’ll never forget what he did for me. What he did for the business. Christian is one of the most underrated professional wrestlers of all time. This guy should actually already be in the Hall of Fame. That’s how good he was and, I don’t know, I mean, I think someday he will be. I just think that he’s been underappreciated.

“He could have very well been the best professional wrestler of all time. That’s how good he was. He was creative putting the matches together. His timing was impeccable. He was one of the absolute best I’ve ever worked with.”

Cage is set to take on Omega a second time on Sept. 5. This time, it’ll be for the AEW World Title. The match is penciled in to serve as the main event of All Out.

Earlier this year, Christian Cage appeared in the Royal Rumble PPV. It was his first appearance as an active competitor since 2014 as he hadn’t been medically cleared to return. Cage wouldn’t stick around with WWE, however, as he ended up signing a full-time deal with AEW.

NXT Getting A New Look Soon, Will Be Taped After TakeOver 36

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Times are changing in the land of NXT. Earlier this month, PW Insider reported that fans can soon expect changes to the brand. The changes noted in the report were a new logo, lighting, and a new feel to the show.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reports that those changes will be coming this week. In addition, Fightful is reporting that NXT shows will be taped after TakeOver 36, which is set to take place on Aug. 22.

Recently, 12 stars who once worked under the brand were released. Among those names were Bronson Reed and Bobby Fish. It was later reported that WWE no longer looks at NXT as the third brand due to “losing the war” to AEW in terms of television viewership. The idea is that the brand will now focus on talent who are bigger in size and younger than 30.

It’s a far cry from what NXT had been known for years prior. There was a time when WWE scooped up some of the hottest stars on the independent scene in an attempt to make the NXT brand profitable. We’ve seen former indie and international stars such as Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, Sami Zayn, and more get their start on NXT before going onto the main roster to win titles.

At TakeOver 36, Samoa Joe is scheduled to challenge Karrion Kross for the brand’s main title. Plus, Raquel González puts her women’s gold on the line against Dakota Kai. We’ll also get to see UK Champion WALTER defend his gold in a rematch with Ilja Dragunov.

Tony Khan: Fuego Del Sol’s AEW Contract Was A ‘Complete Shoot’

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Tony Khan claims that when Fuego Del Sol was offered his AEW contract on the debut episode of Rampage, it was a total shoot.

This past Friday night (Aug. 13), Del Sol challenged Miro for the TNT Championship. The stipulation was that if Del Sol won then not only would he become a titleholder but he’d also be offered an AEW contract. Despite getting off to a blazing start, nailing Miro with three tornado DDTs, Del Sol was crushed by the Machka Kick and was forced to tap out to the Game Over.

After the match, Miro seemingly tore up Del Sol’s contract. When Rampage returned from commercial break, Del Sol was in the ring and received cheers from the Pittsburgh crowd. Sammy Guevara then made his entrance and was handed a contract by Khan. He then presented it to Del Sol, revealing his best friend is now All Elite.

“Fuego, Fuego man you lost but sometimes there’s victory in defeat. I mean, you’ve been coming here for the past year, you’re like 1-50 but who cares cause these people love you. And Fuego, whether you know it a lot of guys love you back there too. Tony Khan thought it was only right for me to be the one to come out here, since you’re my best friend, to say officially Fuego Del Sol is All Elite.”

During an interview with Sports Illustrated, Khan revealed that the moment Del Sol received his contract was a legit shoot.

“That was a complete shoot. Fuego had no idea that was going to happen. Sammy was the only person I told, and Fuego was legitimately surprised to receive the contract he’s been dreaming of and chasing.”

Fuego Del Sol has yet to have a singles victory under the AEW banner. His only win with the promotion was a tag team match.

Renee Paquette: Watching Jon Moxley In Deathmatches Isn’t Easy

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Renee Paquette admits it can be difficult to see her husband, Jon Moxley, in hardcore matches.

Moxley has been taking full advantage of the freedom afforded to him since his WWE departure. We’ve seen Moxley participate in deathmatches post-WWE. One of those deathmatches took place back in July against Lance Archer. Moxley lost the IWGP United States Title after being driven into a barbed wire table.

Paquette spoke to Wrestling Inc. and gave her reaction to Moxley’s string of violence inside the ring.

“I know how that feels to be sitting there going like ‘Oh, my God!’ It can be very stressful. Especially when it’s somebody like Nick Gage across the ring from your significant other. It’s not easy to watch.”

“When Jon and I started dating, yes we were in WWE, but I got caught up very, very quickly on who Jon Moxley was before ‘Dean Ambrose’ became a thing.”

Renee Paquette also said sometimes she’s taken aback by how Moxley can quickly transition from a traditional pro wrestling match to a deathmatch.

“Now watching Jon Moxley re-submerge into the world. I know how difficult it can be to be like, ‘Wait! I saw you wrestle this other way, and now you’re getting involved in this other chaos! What is happening?!?’”

Moxley has also dabbled into the world of GCW. He’s even confronted Nick Gage in the promotion. Gage is known for his violent matches and he even wrestled Chris Jericho on an episode of AEW Dynamite.

Do you like seeing Jon Moxley in deathmatches?

Kurt Angle On How Much Choice WWE Wrestlers Have With Entrance Music

Rayan Sayyed
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Kurt Angle’s WWE entrance music is iconic among wrestling fans. The accompanying “you suck!” chants have become a fan-favorite ritual to participate in, which evolved to being used affectionately for Angle as opposed to showing hatred for his character.

On a recent episode of The Kurt Angle Show, Angle gave his opinion about his theme song and revealed what he initially thought of it. He said it took him some time for him to warm up to his theme when it was first introduced, and once he started using it, the song became part of his identity as a wrestler.

“I listened to it beforehand but I didn’t like it so much at first. The more I listened to it, the catchier it got. I love my theme song. I love how catchy it is. It’s a really cool song, it definitely represents who I was and I wouldn’t change it. It’s the best entrance theme that I could ever imagine possible (for me),” Angle said.

Fans are always fascinated about musical side of wrestling. Angle was asked if WWE shows wrestlers a few songs and asks them to pick which one they liked the best, or if they even have any say at all regarding their themes. Angle revealed that the company would make a song for a wrestler on their own and show it to them when the wrestler is present at the arena. The music is not going to change drastically even if the wrestler doesn’t like it, as according to Angle once the track is made they would barely change it much.

“Well they make a song for you, and then you’ll show up at the arena and they’ll play it out loud in the arena. And you decide if you like it or if you don’t. But for the most part, they’re basically saying, ‘Hey, this is the music we made for you, this is the music you’re gonna have to use.’ You can say you don’t like it, they’ll go back and re-edit it, but for the most part it’s gonna be identical to the first one they made.”

Read more: Kurt Angle Wanted a Retirement Match Against John Cena

CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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CM Punk continues to get the wrestling world talking with another AEW hint.

Back in July, it was reported by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful that Punk is looking to make his return to the pro wrestling industry. The report also noted that the likely candidate to scoop Punk up is AEW.

AEW hasn’t been shy in dropping references either. Darby Allin recently cut a promo where he said anyone looking to prove themselves has to compete in AEW, even if they think they’re the “Best in the World.” That, of course, is CM Punk’s catchphrase.

Punk, who serves as a color commentator for the CFFC promotion, dropped a big hint regarding his future inside the ring during an event. Take a listen below.

https://twitter.com/joedaddy85/status/1426760880293883904

This isn’t the first time Punk has dropped an AEW hint. He recently took to his Instagram Stories to post a quote that is tattooed on Darby Allin’s chest.

CM Punk hasn’t been seen inside a wrestling ring since 2014. He made his final appearance for WWE at the Royal Rumble PPV. Punk says he was due to face and defeat Triple H at WrestleMania but he grew tired of what he claims to have been broken promises, a misdiagnosis of his staph infection, lack of time off, and creative differences.

It was reported by Fightful Select that Punk has looked as if he hasn’t missed a beat when it comes to training. Punk had to do some in-ring work for the Heels show starring Stephen Amell. Those who were on set say Punk looked so fresh in the ring that they believe he has been training for a while now.

How big of an impact do you think CM Punk would make if he does indeed return?

Bianca Belair Explains Why She Uses Her Hair As In-Ring Weapon

Rayan Sayyed
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Bianca Belair, who is the current WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion is known for using her hair as a “whip” as her iconic braid helps her stand out in the roster. Belair explained why she decided to use her hair as part of her in-ring style in an interview with Metro.

Belair said that she’s always wanted to incorporate her hair as part of her moveset in the ring, and she thinks it makes her unique. “That’s something that I’ve always wanted to – when people look at me and look at my braid, that’s my superpower, that’s my weapon,” she said.

Belair added that she wanted to make it clear that her braid is her weapon and if anyone tries to go for it, it’s gonna end up backfiring on them. It’s something that cannot be used against her like a regular weapon, and that’s one of her strong suits. “I don’t want that being used against me. I definitely wanted to put out there that it’s my weapon, and if you touch it, it’s gonna backfire on you. You can’t use it against me, and that’s the way it’s been since I started wearing in 2017, 16?”

Back in June, Bianca Belair faced Bayley inside Hell In A Cell to defend her SmackDown Women’s Championship. In the match, Bayley tried to use Belair’s hair against her in an unsuccessful attempt by tying it to the bottom rope. Speaking about it, the ‘EST of WWE’ said that Bayley and her were on the same page with that and wanted to tell a story in the ring.

“I think we were on the same page with that. We wanted to be innovative and use the cell to our advantage and disadvantage but also just make it unique. I think we did that with the story that was told, the whole hair thing,” said Belair about the match. “Every time she tried to use my hair I had something to come back with and it actually ended up backfiring on her. Just putting the message out there to not use my hair!”

Bianca Belair will defend her women’s title against Sasha Banks at SummerSlam on August 21 in what would be a WrestleMania 37 re-match where Belair defeated Banks to win the title.

Read More: Bianca Belair Wants Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair Matches

Charlotte Attends TripleMania, Original Plan For Omega vs. Andrade

Michael Reichlin
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AAA’s TripleMania XXIX event took place Saturday night from Mexico City, Mexico. One of the top matches saw Kenny Omega retain the Mega Championship against Andrade El Idolo.

Wrestling legend Ric Flair was in attendance. He accompanied Andrade to the ring and roughed up Kenny Omega, as seen below.

On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer revealed that the original plan was for Andrade to win the match and win the title. AEW reached out to AAA officials and requested they delay the title switch until a further date.

Omega dropped the Impact World Championship to Christian the prior night on AEW Rampage, which was likely a factor in the decision.

Kenny Omega Reacts To Ric Flair (Video), Omega-Andrade Trash Talk

Charlotte Flair at TripleMania

Charlotte Flair missed a WWE live event in her hometown to attend TripleMania in Mexico City with Ric Flair and Andrade.

The Queen of WWE was advertised for Saturday night’s live event from Charlotte, North Carolina. Konnan, who was put in a figure four by Andrade El Idolo during TripleMania, posted this photo with Ric and Charlotte Flair backstage.

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