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WWE Smackdown 9/17 Show In Atlanta Canceled

Chris Stephens
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The State Farm Arena in Atlanta has posted that the scheduled WWE Smackdown show from the venue on 9/17 has been canceled.

“Friday Night Smackdown on September 17 will no longer take place in Atlanta. Refunds are available at all points of purchase,” the website’s update reads.

WWE Ticket Sales News

WWE ticket sales for the company’s return to the road have not been selling as well as expected. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, some shows do have good numbers, however. For tonight’s show in the Toyota Center, the venue is sold out and 14,000 fans are expected. Money in the Bank has almost 10,000 tickets sold. The RAW show in Dallas on July 19th has 7300 tickets sold as of this writing.

In a recent interview with Variety, Stephanie McMahon spoke about WWE going back out on the road.

“I think I can speak for everybody that touches the WWE Universe — whether it is our fans, our Superstars, our employees, or our partners — we absolutely cannot wait to get back together and come back home where we belong,” she said. “And even though we never went off the air and we continue to produce our content, even though we brought in nearly a million virtual fans over this time period through the ThunderDome with over 70 plus live shows, there’s still just such a huge component missing without fans physically in attendance.”

First Look At The New Set For WWE Smackdown

Chris Stephens
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WWE will be revealing a new set for Smackdown tonight. The company’s first show back on the road will take place tonight from Houston’s Toyota Center. An image of the new set that will debut tonight is below:

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WWE Hyping New Sets

According to comments Stephanie McMahon made recently to Variety, the new set for RAW will be the same as Smackdown’s. She also went into greater detail regarding what fans can expect from the new set up.

“We’re going to have a new set design, a new presentation of our talents, different locations, and arena setups,” McMahon said. “We’re going to be utilizing augmented reality in a way that we never have before. We experimented with it a lot during Thunderdome, but it is now going to be incorporated into our talent entrances. There’s also going to be animated graphics. It’s going to be so exciting and so different than anything we’ve done before.”

3 matches have been announced for tonight’s Smackdown. Bianca Belair will defend the Smackdown Women’s Championship against Carmella. Edge will team with the Mysterios to take on Roman Reigns and the Usos. Also Shinsuke Nakamura will team with Kevin Owens to take on Seth Rollins and Big E.

Dr Britt Baker Talks the Trial and Error Success of AEW’s Women’s Division

Alex Laybourne
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Current AEW Women’s Champion Dr Britt Baker has spoken to Daily Star Online about the evolution of the women’s division in AEW. The current champion has been with AEW since the very beginning and has grown and evolved as a performer each and every week ever since.

Talking candidly about AEW and its first three years, Dr Britt Baker openly admits that the AEW women’s roster were inexperienced when it comes to working live television.

“I came in and was pushed as one of the top girls [but] I’d never wrestled a match on live TV, I had no idea what a hard cam was and had never cut a live promo.” Dr Britt Baker said, speaking humbly, leaving her character at the door. “Now I humbly dub myself one of the faces of the whole company, and that has been a very challenging yet rewarding growth process.”

Dr Britt Baker Admits the NXT Women’s Division is Impressive

During the interview, talk turned towards WWE, specifically NXT. The black and gold brand was AEW’s biggest rival. Branded the Wednesday Night Wars, Dr Britt Baker stood at the forefront of the women’s division.

Baker was eager to point out that she has no hard feelings towards her competitors and is very close with many of them. “I love the NXT women’s division and am friends with so many of those girls.”

However, Dr Britt Baker was also keen to point out that WWE stars have an entire training complex to rely on. While the women of AEW did that in the ring before a live audience week in and week out. Honing their craft thanks to trial and error and the unwavering support of Tony Khan.

“But they have a Performance Center. My Performance Center was AEW Dynamite, live on Wednesday nights. I was learning as we go… you train in the ring, you cut promos and practice as much as you can, but I don’t have a wrestling ring in my back yard, a television set-up or a hard cam to pan to. So, a lot of what you see on tv was just trial and error because, again, we don’t have that Performance Center.”

During her time in AEW, Dr Britt Baker has defined herself as the ultimate professional. Earning fans respect the hard way, the organic way. By busting her butt each week, refining her promos and competing in matches. From squash matches to her record-setting unsanctioned match against Thunder Rosa.

With gold now around her waist, Dr Britt Baker is eager to lead the charge. Repaying Tony Khan for the faith he instilled in everyone on the AEW women’s roster.

Matt Cardona To Team With Mystery Partner At Slammiversary

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling has added a second match with a mystery participant to Slammiversary on Saturday.

On Thursday’s go-home edition of Impact on AXS TV, Tenille Dashwood hit Cardona with a low blow and appears to have aligned with Brian Myers. Scott D’Amore later announced a new match for Slammiversary that will see Myers and Dashwood against Cardona and a mystery partner of his choosing.

Chelsea Green might be the obvious choice for Cardona. It’s not clear if she will be medically fit come Saturday, however.

The other match with a mystery participant for Slammiversary is the Knockouts title match. 2 weeks ago, Gail Kim informed Purrazzo that she will not know who her Slammiversary opponent is ahead of time. Scott D’Amore teased several names for Purrazzo’s possible opponent in a backstage segment this week.

Final Card for Impact Slammiversary

  1. Impact World Championship
    No Disqualification
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Sami Callihan
  2. Knockouts Championship
    Deonna Purrazzo (c) vs A Mystery Opponent
  3. Impact Tag Team Championships
    Violent By Design (c) vs The Good Brothers vs Willie Mack & Rich Swann vs TJP & Fallah Bah
  4. Knockouts Tag Team Championships
    Fire N Flava (c) vs Rosemary & Havok
  5. X-Division Championship
    Ultimate-X
    Josh Alexander (c) vs Rohit Raju vs Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel vs Ace Austin vs Petey Williams
  6. Moose vs Chris Sabin
  7. Eddie Edwards vs W. Morrissey
  8. Matt Cardona & ??? vs Brian Myers & Tenille Dashwood

Kalisto Has One Major Regret From His Time With WWE

Alex Laybourne
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Recently released WWE wrestler Kalisto has spoken up about the single biggest regret he has from his time in WWE. Regrets can be haunting things, especially when they were within our own control the entire time.

For Kalisto, the regret was not something he did or something that was planned and then scrapped. Rather, it was something he wanted to propose but never felt bold enough to do. Despite having the approval of the wrestler involved.

The plan? A mask versus mask match with Rey Mysterio. Kalisto detailed the plan during an interview with Chris Van Vliet for his Insight podcast.

Kalisto was released from WWE after an 8 year run with the company. He was a solid performer and held several championships during his time. Yet sadly, never felt bold enough to suggest his idea. That was until just before his release. He had his entire idea mapped out in a storyboard, and was finally ready to give the pitch to Mr McMahon but was released before he had the chance.

Everybody Was On-Board with Kalisto’s Mask vs Mask Idea

As he talked, Kalisto explained how he had taken his idea to many of his colleagues, including Daniel Bryan, Edge and of course, Rey Mysterio. All of them thought his idea was fantastic. Paul Heyman going so far as to brand it a work of genius, urging the young star to pitch his idea.

Sadly, we never got to see Kalisto go up against Re Mysterio in a WWE ring. That is something that he openly admits his own fault.

 The man formerly known as Kalisto has not yet made any announcements about his ring return. However, he has already confirmed that he will revert to his old ring name of Samuray del Sol and has two new t-shirts available through his website or via Pro-Wrestling Tees.

Impact Results (7/15): Slammiversary Go-Home Show

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling on 7/15 was the go-home show for the Slammiversary PPV this weekend.

Impact Wrestling 7/15 Quick Results:

  1. Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering defeated Tenille Dashwood & Kaleb
  2. Havok defeated Tasha Steelz
  3. Steve Maclin defeated Kal Herro
  4. Josh Alexander, Chris Bey, Trey Miguel & Petey Williams defeated Ace Austin, Madman Fulton, Rohit Raju & Shera
  5. Moose defeated Hernandez
  6. Joe Doering w/ Violent By Design defeated Willie Mack w/ Rich Swann, Fallah Bahh w/ TJP & Doc Gallows w/ Karl Anderson

Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering Pick Up Measure Of Revenge On Tenille Dashwood & Kaleb

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFXgd7SwiZ0

The team of Jordynne Grace and Rachel Ellering appear to be back on the same page. Last week on Impact, Tennille Dashwood attacked Jazz on the “All About Me” show. This led to the former knockouts tag team champions challenging her and her personal photographer to a match this week.

Ellering and Grace didn’t show any signs of the dissension that had previously broken up their team and got the victory after a double team assisted slam on Kaleb.

Havok Defeats Tasha Steelz Before Slammiversary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_gFv6ZQvAE

At Slammiversary on Saturday, Havok and Rosemary will challenge Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz for the Knockouts tag titles. Ahead of the title clash on PPV, Havok picked up a win over Steelz this week, finishing her off with a tombstone pilediver.

Later in the show, Rosemary spoke with James Mitchell about making Havok a full-fledged member of Decay before Slammiversary.

Susan Has Known All Along?

Was it Su Yung all along? Kimber Lee had previously sought out Father James Mitchell to assist in bringing Su Yung back out of Susan. This week, Kimber ran into Susan in the back and the frequently disgruntled woman revealed that she’s known about Su Yung all along. Susan then grabbed Kimber by the hair and tossed her into a room when the segment ended.

Steve Maclin Picks Up Another Win

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNK3HA1AIuk

Steve Maclin picked up another win in squash match style this week. He then cut a promo about “being done waiting” after.

Chris Bey Is Back To Not Having Picked A Side

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LE4fOJFxPs

For weeks, Chris Bey has been refusing to choose a side between the babyfaces and heels in the X-Division. He finally sided with the babyfaces last week but that wouldn’t last long. Bey picked up the win this week for the good guys after scoring a roll-up on Shera. After the match, however, Bey made it clear there will be no sides on Saturday at Slammiversary. it will be every man for himself in Ultimate X. Bey demonstrated this by attacked Trey and Alexander with a chair.

Tenille Dashwood Helps Brian Myers In Beatdown of Matt Cardona

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y-AgXNFMFk

Someone Matt Cardona has a history with, Tenille Dashwood, helped Brian Myers attack Matt Cardona this week. Myers and Sam Beale were out to adhere to the stipulation of the match last week and refer to Something as “a professional.” Myers said that Something might be professional but he’s not a star. Things then got physical between the 4 men when Tenille Dashwood appeared and gave a low blow to Cardona.

Following this, Cardona cut a promo in the back on Myers. Scott D’Amore then cut in and announced a match at Slammiversary pitting Myers and Dashwood against Cardona and a mystery female wrestler.

Chris Sabin Saves Hernandez From Moose

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR3140UWQyc

Moose defeated Hernandez in singles action this week. After the match, he wrapped Super Mex’s leg in a steel chair but Moose’s Slammiversary opponent Chris Sabin made the save. Sabin then wrapped Moose’s leg in a chair but Moose was able to escape.

Joe Doering and Violent By Design Build Momentum For Slammiversary

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMAHlQ4a4ko

In a 4-way match this week, Joe Doering pinned Fallah Bah, giving Violent By Design the edge leading to the tag title match at Slammiversary on Saturday. Eric Young’s faction stood tall to end the show.

Slammiversary Lineup

  1. Impact World Championship
    No Disqualification
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Sami Callihan
  2. Knockouts Championship
    Deonna Purrazzo (c) vs A Mystery Opponent
  3. Impact Tag Team Championships
    Violent By Design (c) vs The Good Brothers vs Willie Mack & Rich Swann vs TJP & Fallah Bah
  4. Knockouts Tag Team Championships
    Fire N Flava (c) vs Rosemary & Havok
  5. X-Division Championship
    Ultimate-X
    Josh Alexander (c) vs Rohit Raju vs Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel vs Ace Austin vs Petey Williams
  6. Moose vs Chris Sabin
  7. Eddie Edwards vs W. Morrissey
  8. Matt Cardona & ??? vs Brian Myers & Tenille Dashwood

Sean Waltman Confirms WWE Is Creating a Post 9/11 Documentary

Alex Laybourne
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Two-time Hall of Fame inductee Sean Waltman has broken the news that WWE are currently working on a new documentary. This will focus on the first show they held immediately after the 9/11 terrorist attack.

While talking during an appearance on the Pro Wrestling 4 Life podcast, Sean Waltman spoke about the recent anniversary of the NWO formation. It was much celebrated on the WWE network. It was then, during that conversation that Waltman let the details slip.

“I sat down for some talking head stuff. They’re doing a documentary on the SmackDown after 9/11. I have vivid memories of all that. We were the first ones to do anything after that happened.” Sean Waltman revealed.

He didn’t have any more details that he was able to divulge, but the announcement is newsworthy in and of itself.

WWE was the first company to hold a live event with a crowd after the attacks. It was a special night that carries with it more than a little historical significance.

Sean Waltman Wil Likely Feature in the New WWE Documentary

While many people are highly critical of the WWE in-ring product right now, one fact remains unshakable. They make fantastic documentaries and behind the scenes shows. A documentary detailing the events leading up to and surrounding their show immediately following the 9/11 attacks would be a very emotional affair. Sean Waltman was there that night and will surely play a part in the final documentary.

While Sean Waltman was unable to give any more specifics about the show, he was clearly given the all-clear to mention it. With the 20th anniversary of the attack this year, it is likely that the documentary will air sometime around then.

There is something even more haunting about a documentary regarding the terrorist attacks, as we stand at the end of a pandemic that saw crowds removed from wrestling shows for over eighteen months. Wrestling is entertainment, but it is something that has been there for some of the largest moments of our generation. For many, it is the lifeline that gets us through the tough times that life throws our way.

Bray Wyatt Reaches Out to the WWE Universe “I Miss You Guys”

Alex Laybourne
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The RAW after Wrestlemania was the last time anybody saw Bray Wyatt on WWE television. Missing since then, little has been said about him or the Fiend. The reasons for his absence have been documented and are not due to any problems or squabbles behind the scenes.

However, it has left the WWE universe wondering when we will see Bray Wyatt back on your screens. Whatever character he plays, his pull with the fans has always been nothing short of spectacular.

So much so that a fan recently took to Twitter to express how much they miss Bray. Little did they know, but the superstar would answer, proclaiming he missed the WWE universe just as much as they missed him.

There is no word when Bray Wyatt is set to return, however, his image has been used recently for some upcoming live events.

Would We See Bray Wyatt Return at Money in the Bank?

WWE have a long history of springing surprise returns in the main event of PPV matches. With both the WWE and Universal Championships being defended at Money in the Bank this Sunday, there is every chance that we will see Bray Wyatt make a sudden return.

Bray is a former WWE champion, and will surely want to get himself back into the title hunt. Interfering in a title match would be a great way to start a feud with whoever emerges victorious.

That is, of course, pure speculation. However, with Bray Watt being advertised for RAW on August 9th, you have to expect WWE to at least have some video packages ready to go. These could make a wonderful little distraction to change the tide of a title fight.

There is also the unanswered story of Bray Wyatt and Alexa Bliss, who is competing in the MITB ladder match. The more you look at it, the more plausible angles you can find for the fiend to return this Sunday.

Edge Brings Relevance to the WWE 24/7 Title Drawing R-Truths Ire

Alex Laybourne
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Edge has returned to WWE with a renewed vigor and attitude. His feud with Roman Reigns over the Universal Championship has been running since his victory at the Royal Rumble. However, talking on a recent episode of Talking Smack, he threw shade at another WWE champion. The 24/7 champion, R-Truth.

Talking to the show’s presenters, Edge referenced his accolades in WWE and then shot down the 24/7 belt. This dig did not sit well with R-Truth.

“But I’ve been there, done that. I’ve won 31 championships; that’s more than anyone else in this company, and I’m sorry I don’t count the 24/7 Championships.” Edge ranted.

The comments drew fire from R-Truth, who is the current 24/7 champion with a record-setting 52 reigns. Truth, who wasn’t on the show, took to Twitter to settle to score with Edge and make it clear which title he feels the more important.

Edge Making the 24/7 Title Relevant

The majority of professional wrestling is scripted in some way. All wrestlers are playing characters, and their words and thoughts belong to that character rather than them. Very few are better at this than R-Truth, whose goofball character never fails to win over the crowd.

Everybody knows that the 24/7 title is not a ‘real’ title. However, with Edge mentioning it on Talking Smack, you do have to wonder if there is an angle being planned. Something to either add relevance to the title or to give R-Truth a feud of his own. Coincidences are not often accidental in professional wrestling. While they make an odd pairing, it would be a fun feud to watch however long it lasts.

It’s hard to think of a wrestler more liked than R-Truth, and while not the youngest, he is entertaining and certain still has ‘it.’  Very few fans would begrudge him being given an interesting storyline, whether it ends with a more legitimate title or not. With Edge’s feud with Roman surely coming to a head this weekend, one way or another he will be looking for a new direction.

Bayley Undergoes Successful Surgery on Torn ACL

Alex Laybourne
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WWE superstar Bayley has undergone successful surgery to repair her torn ACL. The injury occurred during a training session at the performance centre. Training sessions were imposed by Vince McMahon ahead of the return of live crowds.

Bayley’s injury could not have come at a worse time as she was preparing to face off against WWE Smackdown Women’s champion Bianca Belair in an I Quit match at Money in the Bank. Injuries are a part of wrestling and plans often need to change last minute. However, for Bayley who was enjoying a good push after being largely marginalized during Wrestlemania it will be a big blow.

The title match that was set for Money in the Bank has since been pulled from the card. Instead, Belair will defend against Camella on the go home edition of Smackdown.

Tweeting from her hospital bed, Bayley remained in her heel character, blaming the fans for her injury. “Can’t wait to miss the first show in front of fans again. I blame YOU for this. Thanks a lot,” she wrote.

Bayley Has Come a Long Way

Bayley has been a mainstay in WWE ever since her time in NXT. Her character and in-ring abilities have evolved over the years and she is not one of the more interesting heels on the roster. While the character she is building doesn’t always appear to be fully understood by the creative minds driving it, she has great potential is allowed to explore it fully.

This injury will be a blow, and nine months is a long time to miss. Hopefully, though she will be back on programming before then, in a non-competitive role. It would suit her heel persona, allowing her time to build on it during her time out of the ring.

One thing is for sure, Bayley will be back. She will be eager to get her hands on WWE gold once more.

Spoiler On Goldberg’s Return To WWE Television

Andrew Ravens
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WWE is tapping into legacy talent to ensure the road to SummerSlam generates as much buzz as possible. In the weeks ahead, we’ll see the returns of John Cena and Becky Lynch. Another box office attraction set to return soon is one Bill Goldberg.

The 54-year-old star is scheduled to appear at Monday’s WWE Raw from Dallas, Texas at the American Airlines Center. The news was first reported at Fightful Select. This is the first WWE Raw “on the road” with fans since March 2020.

WWE is planning for Goldberg to challenge WWE Champion Bobby Lashley at SummerSlam on Sunday, August 21st.

Goldberg’s WWE contract runs through 2022 and calls for two matches per year.

In 2019, he lost to The Undertaker at Super ShowDown in Saudi Arabia in June before defeating Dolph Ziggler at SummerSlam in Toronto.

Last year, the legendary pro wrestler beat The Fiend for the Universal title at Super ShowDown in Saudi Arabia in February only to drop it a few months later to Braun Strowman on night one of WrestleMania 36. 

Goldberg was last seen in action back in January at the Royal Rumble. That match was also for the WWE Championship. He came up short against Drew McIntyre.

WALTER Injured, WWE NXT UK Title Match Delayed

Andrew Ravens
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Fans will have to wait to see WALTER vs. Ilja Dragunov II a bit longer than next week on WWE NXT UK. 

WWE announced today that WALTER has suffered an injury to his left hand and is unable to defend his NXT United Kingdom Championship against the challenger on the show. 

WWE did a storyline where they blamed the injury on a backstage altercation between WALTER and Dragunov that wasn’t shown. The company said that details about the injury are sketchy at this point, but the medical staff has deemed the injury to be “severe” and WALTER isn’t fit to compete next week. 

It was added that more information on the situation will be revealed on next Thursday’s NXT UK. During the latest episode of NXT UK, there was an in-ring press conference segment with WALTER and Dragunov shown before the news of WALTER’s injury. 

Fans were looking forward to this match as the original bout was one of the best to take place in 2020. That title contest went down last October that saw WALTER go over to retain the title. Since that time, Dragunov has struggled with temper issues in storyline but continued to progress in order to get it under control. 

Dragunov became the number one contender to WALTER’s title when he defeated Rampage Brown and Joe Coffey in a triple threat match on NXT UK in June.

WWE Money In The Bank Betting Odds

Andrew Ravens
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The betting odds for most of the matches that will take place at the WWE Money in the Bank pay-per-view event have been released.

The card for the show that takes place this Sunday (July 18, 2021) from Fort Worth, Texas at Dickies Arena is close to being finalized as only 6 matches have been announced with WWE expected to likely confirm a pre-show contest and perhaps more matches on SmackDown this Friday.

Roman Reigns is a major favorite to retain the Universal Title over Edge while Bobby Lashley is favored to retain his WWE Title against Kofi Kingston. There are no odds available just yet for the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match, but Big E is the favorite to win the men’s match. 

There are no titles favored to change hands. The favorites to win are listed as – while the underdogs are listed with +. Odds call for all three titles to change. Here are the betting odds, courtesy of Bet Online: 

WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns (-500) vs. Edge (+300) 

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley (-1100) vs. Kofi Kingston (+700) 

Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match – Ricochet (16/1) vs. Matt Riddle (11/2) vs. John Morrison (16/1) vs. Drew McIntyre (4/1) vs. Big E (7/4) vs. Kevin Owens (8/1) vs. Seth Rollins (5/2) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (12/1) 

WWE Raw Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley (-140) vs. Charlotte Flair (even) 

WWE Raw Tag Team Champions AJ Styles and Omos (-400) vs. The Viking Raiders (+250)

Malakai Black is Enjoying the Creative Freedom Offered by AEW

Alex Laybourne
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Malakai Black shocked the world when he appeared on AEW Dynamite just a month after his WWE release. Since his release, Black has taken to the popular streaming platform Twitch, using it as a platform to air his thoughts and feelings.

Talking on his wife’s (WWE’s Zelina Vega) channel he talked about how Malaki Black was a character a long time in development. Black elaborated, explaining that this was the vision he had from the very start. He even went as far as pitching the idea of Triple H ahead of his NXT debut.

“It’s funny. The reason I did this is because this is actually how I wanted the WWE version to be,” Malakai Black explained. “When I started, I wanted to come in as a heel. Hunter [Triple H] wanted me face. If anyone has ever seen any work of me on the independents, you would know that the gimmick I was portraying in the WWE was an amplified version of what I did on the indies. That’s why they wanted me. But I wanted to be a heel because I was coming off a heel run on the independents. But then Hunter had this idea of making me face, a stoic face character.”

Malakai Black Has Room to Grow in AEW

Malakai Black then went on to explain how he is enjoying the creative freedom afforded to him by AEW.

“It feels really good that I’m in a place now where my creative mind can be utilized versus stopped, and controlled, and being presented in things that I know are not gonna work. Because, no offense, I knew a lot of the stuff wasn’t going to work. I said that to them as well back in the day. Lo and behold it didn’t work.”

The level of frustration behind the words speaks volumes and echoes the thoughts and sentiments of other released superstars. However, WWE’s loss is AEW’s gain, and Malakai Black is now free to unleash his full creative force on the world. We have already seen glimpses of Black’s creativity. The wrestling world now waits with bated breath to see where he goes from here.

Impact, NWA, & ROH All Tease “Forbidden Door” Talent Exchanges

Chris Stephens
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Several wrestling companies are now walking through wrestling’s “Forbidden Door.” The term used recently to describe talent exchanges between promotions was coined shortly after “Winter is Coming” in December. Kenny Omega won the AEW World Championship and Don Callis promptly announced he would be taking the title with him to Impact’s weekly show.

Promotions such as Impact, the NWA, and Ring of Honor have all been teasing new forbidden door type exchanges online.

AEW’s FTR and The NWA

As for the NWA and AEW’s “forbidden door” relationship, the NWA recently took part in a Twitter exchange with FTR.

The NWA also responded to a fan who brought up the Crockett Cup.

Everyone Wants To Wrestle Deonna Purrazzo, Deonna Purrazzo Wants To Wrestle Everyone

Ring of Honor doesn’t appear to be out of this game either. Purrazzo appears to be teasing possibly wrestling in the NWA and Ring of Honor.

If Purrazzo didn’t have enough on her plate, the AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker appears motivated to face her as well. Scott D’Amore recently mentioned on Vickie Guerrero’s podcast that Baker cornered him regarding a match with the Knockouts Champ.

“I got cornered by Britt Baker down in Jacksonville a few weeks ago and she’s like, ‘When do I get Deonna?’ I said, ‘Hey, Britt oh, come on. We’ve always said we have an open-door policy and we’re open to doing it,’” D’Amore said on the show. 

Impact, the NWA, and Kylie Rae

According to a report from Fightful, Pat Kenney was a key person in the deal that allowed Kylie Rae out of her Impact contract in order to sign with the NWA. The former Simon Diamond was employed by TNA/Impact from 2003 to 2017 and keeps a good relationship with Scott D’Amore. Additionally, Impact is said to be planning further talent-hopping relationships with other promotions in the future.

ROH, NWA, and Impact All Tweeting At Each Other

ROH’s Ian Riccaboni pointed out that upcoming shows in St. Louis (NWA), Baltimore (ROH), and Nashville (Impact) can fit tidily into one road trip.

https://twitter.com/IanRiccaboni/status/1415416209298894850

He continued to say that Jacksonville (AEW) would be another potential stop on the tour but that some cities do appear to be off limits.

https://twitter.com/IanRiccaboni/status/1415417563488694273

Chelsea Green recently debuted for Ring of Honor. She has a history already with Impact and has made no secret of wanting on the NWA Empowerrr show.

Chris Jericho Compares Hiroshi Tanahashi to The Undertaker

Alex Laybourne
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There can be no denying that Chris Jericho is a man who has been there and done it all. One of the greatest of all time in a ring. A multiple-time champion the world over and known for some of the best fights we have seen.

Talking during a recent interview with Busted Open Radio the G.O.A.T of professional wrestling discussed his time wrestling in Japan for New Japan Pro Wrestling. Many will think of his iconic match with Kenny Omega from WrestleKingdom 13. Yet it was a match the following year that Jericho spoke about. Likening his match with Hiroshi Tanahashi to the first time he fought the Undertaker.

“When you get in the ring with him (Tanahashi), wow,” Chris Jericho said. “He is so good, I’m smiling just thinking about it. What it actually reminded me of was the first time I ever worked with Undertaker, who I did not work with until I had been in the WWE for about ten, twelve years. We just never were on the same show and never really crossed paths. And to be in there with a guy like that was just unbelievable, like ‘oh my gosh it’s all true. It’s true! Everything you hear about The Undertaker is true! He’s really that good.’ And that was the same way I felt about Tanahashi. We just had so much fun being in there together and it was such a blast.”

Chris Jericho Understands the Importance of Chemistry

Chemistry is essential in wrestling. You can have two of the best wrestlers around but if they have no chemistry with each other, the audience will pick up on it in a heartbeat. There are a lot of parallels that could be drawn between Chris Jericho and Tanahashi. They both hold legendary status in their individual promotions and in the eyes of fans around the world.

“He’s so smooth. People think that the Japanese style is dumping each other on each other’s heads and all that stuff, it’s not the case at all. It was really just a great match and as I said, it helped sell out the Tokyo Dome that year. When we did the two nights in Tokyo, it was the second night My last match in New Japan, maybe ever. Who knows if we’ll ever go back. But if that’s the last one, what a way to go out.”

With the pandemic slowly ebbing away, and the forbidden door well and truly open, we can all hope that we will get another chance to see Chris Jericho and Tanahashi square off once more. The G.O.A.T versus the Ace, just one more time.

Potential Spoiler On Becky Lynch’s Return To WWE

Chris Stephens
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Becky Lynch has been gone from WWE since the night after Money in the Bank last year. After Asuka won the MITB match, her and Lynch stood in the ring together the following night on RAW. Lynch revealed that the women’s MITB briefcase actually contained her RAW Women’s Championship. She told Asuka that she’s the new champion as Lynch leaves to become a mother.

According to a report from PW Insider, Lynch is scheduled to be at Money in the Bank on Sunday. This does not necessarily mean she’ll appear on camera but WWE is planning on her being there. There is still one open spot left in the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match as well.

Lynch was also heavily rumoured to appear at WrestleMania this year as well but it didn’t end up happening. Her return not taking place at Mania this year was later addressed in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

“Lynch wasn’t used at WrestleMania as first talked about and teased by her because they were waiting for her to sign a new deal, which is now in effect and because they felt it was too early to debut her before she would be back wrestling,” wrote Dave Meltzer. 

It had been reported at one point that Lynch was to take part in a “Ding Dong Hello” segment hosted by Bayley on the show.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CRPHDmLszF7/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=5f799402-b74b-4ca3-b3d4-26544ccd1827

Lynch had also teased returning before the Royal Rumble.

https://twitter.com/BeckyLynchWWE/status/1356056206973034500

Willie Mack Interview: Impact Slammiversary, Teaming With Rich Swann & More

Michael Reichlin
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SEScoops correspondent Ella Jay recently spoke with Impact Wrestling star Willie Mack to promote this weekend’s Slammiversary PPV. Mack and Rich Swann are competing in the Tag Title Fatal 4-Way match at the event.

You can order Impact Wrestling Slammiversary at FITE.TV now for $39.99.

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Willie Mack SEScoops Interview

Topics discussed during this 17+ minute discussion include:

  • His strategy for the to win the tag titles at Slammiversary: “Just look around and start swinging! Whatever hits, hits.”
  • His partnership with Rich Swann, how they linked up and how their styles mesh
  • How they plan to celebrate if they win the Impact tag titles this weekend
  • The wildest match he’s ever participated in
  • His pick to win the Ultimate X match at Slammiversary (“As long as I’m not in it, I’m happy.”)
  • Summer movie picks & more

Check out Ella Jay’s full interview with Willie Mack:

Aliyah Reportedly Being Called Up To WWE’s Main Roster

Chris Stephens
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Aliyah was not pleased with Robert Stone following her team’s loss to Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter on NXT this week. She stormed off on her former team and appears to be gone from the Robert Stone Brand.

According to multiple reports, Aliyah is headed to the main roster. According to a report from Fightful, the 26-year-old from Toronto impressed the right people when they scouted her at the WWE Performance Center recently. Vince McMahon, Bruce Prichard and John Laurinaitis were reported to have been scouting talent at the PC at the end of June.

Another report from the WrestleVotes Twitter account is stating that Aliyah is headed to the RAW brand. This may have been part of a straight-up trade involving Mandy Rose heading to NXT.

Aliyah started training with Squared Circle Training in Toronto. Her first trainer was Impact Wrestling’s Taylor Wilde. She would later train with Rob Fuego as well. She signed a developmental deal with WWE in 2015 and reported to the Performance Center.

In an interview with WWE.com in 2016, she spoke about being a huge wrestling fan growing up.

“Growing up, I would not miss Raw, SmackDown or a pay-per-view. Every time WWE would come to Toronto, I’d go to the events at the Air Canada Centre or Ricoh Coliseum. I was a huge fangirl.”

“My favorites are Edge, obviously, because he’s Canadian, and Jeff Hardy. For the Divas (it was still Divas then), Trish Stratus, Lita and Mickie James.”

Trent Injury Update Following Spinal Fusion Surgery

Chris Stephens
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AEW’s Trent is looking at a long stretch on the injured list. The popular member of the Best Friends underwent spinal fusion recently. According to a report on Wrestling Observer Radio, the surgery went well but he’s going to be out of action for quite awhile.

“He had his surgery, they fused 2 vertebrae in his neck. It went well but he’s going to be out for quite awhile. But the surgery went well,” said Dave Meltzer.

Trent’s doctor, Michael J Sampson, took to Twitter yesterday to share an X-Ray from Trent’s surgery:

Trent was out of action due to a torn pec from last December to this April as well. His injuries have prevented the Best Friends from remaining in the top-5 rankings.

The last time the Best Friends appeared in the top-5 was on January 6th, 2021. They challenged for the AEW World tag team titles most recently last October.

The Best Friends accompanied Wheeler Yuta the ring for his match on Dynamite this week. Yuta was defeated by Sammy Guevara in singles action. It was said on the broadcast that Yuta is something of a protege for Orange Cassidy and Chuck Taylor.

Miro Debuts Personalized TNT Championship Belt at Fyter Fest

Alex Laybourne
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On night one of AEW Fyter Fest, current TNT champion Miro showed off his brand new, customized TNT Championship belt. In its brief existence within AEW, the TNT title has already gained a prestige that some could argue runs deeper than the AEW Championship. This is largely thanks to the legacy of Brodie Lee and the crowd-endearing fearlessness of Darby Allin.

Now, the TNT Championship is in the hands of God’s Greatest champion Miro. A wrestler who is relishing the creative freedom offered in AEW and is becoming the brutal warrior everybody always knew he could be.

The new TNT title design is one that has been fully customized for the new champion. It carries a deep and personal meaning for Miro, who was born and raised in Bulgaria. The belt, designed from white leather has a green ribbon replacing the red running across the center. This has been done to represent the Bulgarian flag. The missing component of which in the design is the lower red section which will be completed by Miro’s trunks.

Miro is an old school champion and wears the TNT Championship around his waist. This is a clever design that goes deeper than just the belt but incorporates the champion wearing it also.

The belt also has the traditional customized side plates which include the Bulgarian flag at the Bulgarian crest.

Will We See a Customized TNT Championship for Every Champion?

This is the third TNT Championship design so far. The first was retired and awarded to Negative One after Brodie Lee passed. The second was held by Darby Allin. The highly personal nature of this design would indicate that AEW is going to give all of its champions a customized belt.

Changing the side plates of a belt is standard practice for a new champion, but there are easily interchangeable parts. To design an entirely new belt for each holder is an investment in the champion and a wonderful touch to make each reign mean something to said wrestler.

It could be that this design is a once-off, and Miro is going to be given a good run with the belt, after which it will revert to its standard design. However, that seems counterintuitive to the way AEW have conducted their business thus far.

The effort and thought that has gone into this new TNT Championship belt is further proof of AEW’s investment in their wrestlers. Not only from a financial standpoint but from every angle.

AEW Dynamite Fyter Fest Night 1 Results: Coffin Match, Cody & Malakai Black

Robert Lentini
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Night 1 of Fyter Fest aired live from the HEB Center in Cedar Park, Texas. Darby Allin faced Ethan Page in a Coffin Match in the main event. A new promo for AEW new show Rampage also aired during tonight’s show.

Fyter Fest Night 1 Results:

  1. Jon Moxley def. Karl Anderson to retain the IWGP US Championship
  2. Ricky Starks def. Brian Cage for the FTW Championship
  3. Christian Cage def. Matt Hardy
  4. Yuka Sakazaki def. Penelope Ford
  5. Darby Allin def. Ethan Page in a Coffin Match

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Moxley Retained & Will Face Lance Archer In A Texas Death Match Next Week

Jon Moxley defended the IWGP US Championship against Karl Anderson. Eddie Kingston attacked Doc Gallows outside the ring before the match. Moxley beat Anderson down to start off the match but Karl battled back with an uppercut. Anderson shoved Moxley to the corner and him with with a chop across the chest.

Anderson sent Moxley to the apron and leveled him with a boot to the face that knocked the champ out of the ring. Moxley got back in and connected with a massive Superplex. Jon took back control and connected with the Paradigm Shift for the pinfall victory. After the match, Lance Archer cut a promo and it was announced that he will face Moxley next week in a Texas Death match.

Later on the show, Moxley said that there is only one boogeyman in NJPW and AEW. Moxley added that Archer will be Texas dead next week in Dallas.

Team Taz Betrayed Brian Cage

Brian Cage defended the FTW Championship against Ricky Starks. Cage sent Starks to the corner and charged but Ricky hopped to the apron. Cage crashed into the turnbuckle and Starks made his way to the top rope. Starks hit a Dropkick and posed in the ring as Dynamite went to a break.

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Starks grabbed the FTW Championship outside the ring but Cage attacked him. Rickey connected with a Clothesline and the action returned to the ring. Cage hit a Falcon Arrow and went for the cover but Starks got his boot on the bottom rope. Brian followed it up with a massive Powerbomb for a near fall. Team Taz interfered and Powerhouse Hobbs hit Cage with the FTW Championship. Starks hit a Spear for the pinfall victory.

Cody Called Out Malakai Black

Cody showed up at the announce table and yelled about Malakai Black kicking Arn Anderson last week. Cody demanded Malakai come to the ring but he showed up on the screen. Malaki said he looked in Cody’s eyes last week and the intensity wasn’t there. Cody dared him to come to the ring and get a better look and the lights went out. Malakai Black arrived in the ring and traded punches. AEW security rushed the ring and broke it up to end the segment.

Hangman Page Confronted Kenny Omega

Tony Schiavone interviewed Hangman Page tonight. Hangman said the Dark Order is right and he still needs that AEW Championship and the crowd popped. Hangman said he was here to challenge for the title and Don Callis interrupted with The Elite. They got in some insults and Matt Jackson made his way to the ring.

Matt said that Hangman abandoned his best friends and it blows his mind that he left them for a bunch of losers (Dark Order). Matt added that he could smell the booze on Hangman’s breath and claimed that Page doesn’t have the balls to hit him. Hangman knocked Matt out of the ring and Kenny Omega slid into the ring. Dark Order rushed the ring for the save and The Elite retreated as the crowd chanted AEW.

Omega suggested a 5 vs. 5 Elimination match and Hangman said if they win he gets a title shot and Dark Order gets a tag title match. Kenny said that if The Elite wins, Hangman loses his title shot and so does the Dark Order. A “cowboy sh*t!” shit broke out and Kenny told them to shut up. Hangman accepted the stipulations to end the promo.

Christian Cage def. Matt Hardy

Christian Cage battled Matt Hardy tonight on Dynamite. Christian dominated early and brought Matt out of the ring. Cage sent Hardy into the barricade and then made his way to the top rope. Christian hit a Crossbody and both men fell to the floor.

When Dynamite returned from a break, Christian brought Matt to the corner and went for a Tornado DDT but Matt blocked it. Hardy unloaded some punches and hit Cage with a chop to the chest. Matt connected with a Superplex and then hit Christian with a low blow while the referee was distracted.

Matt hit the Twist of Fate and went for the cover but Christian kicked out at two. Matt applied a Sleeper Hold outside the ring and rolled back inside as the referee started counting. Christian got back in the ring and hit the Killswitch for the pinfall victory. After the match, Private Party rushed the ring but Jurassic Express made the save. Luchasaurus lifted Christian up on his shoulders to celebrate.

Sammy Guevara Picked Up A Win

Sammy Guevara faced Wheeler Yuta tonight. Sammy got a great reaction from the crowd. Yuta connected with a Splash and went for the cover but Sammy kicked out at two. Guevara connected with an awesome springboard Cutter and then the GTH for the pinfall victory.

Yuka Sakazaki def. Penelope Ford

Yuka Sakazaki squared off against Penelope Ford on this week’s show. Sakazaki controlled the match early and sent Penelope out of the ring. Back in the ring, Penelope hit a Suplex and followed it up with a Clothesline for a near fall. Yuka hit the Magical Girl Splash for the pinfall victory.

Nyla Rose Vowed To Take The Title From Britt Baker Next Week

Britt Baker was interviewed by Tony Schiavone. Tony asked if she was alright after Nyla Rose recently put her through a table. Britt said she has dealt with worse and her wounds healed because she is the baddest b*tch on the block. Baker noted that Nyla has beaten her before but Britt is in a league of her own right now. Britt added that she knows Vickie is listening backstage and said that she has a last name that will keep her relevant forever in wrestling, but Nyla Rose doesn’t. Nyla needs the title to be relevant. Vickie and Nyla responded in a backstage promo and Rose vowed to beat Baker next week for the title.

Darby Allin Won AEW’s First Coffin Match

Darby Allin battled Ethan Page in a Coffin Match in the main event. Scorpio Sky interfered as it was revealed he was hiding in the coffin. Sky attacked Darby and sent him flying over the steel steps. Sting made his way to the ring to a massive pop and battled with Scorpio Sky in the crowd. Sting hit the Stinger Splash as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, Page and Allin were still battling in the crowd. They returned to the ring and Page bounced Darby’s face off the steel steps. Ethan removed the turnbuckle and slammed Allin to the mat. Darby hit Page with the exposed steel and Dropkicked the steel steps onto Page.

Ethan and Allin started trading punches inside the coffin. Page connected with a Back Body Drop on the floor. Page lifted Darby up in a Fireman’s Carry and walked up the steel steps but Allin escaped. Darby slammed Page onto the steps and made his way to the top rope.

Page got up and crotched Allin on the top turnbuckle and hit Ego’s Edge on top of the steel steps. Allin used his skateboard and leaped off the top rope. Allin kicked Page with the skateboard and Page fell into the coffin. Allin closed it to win the match. After the match, Darby climbed to the top rope and hit a Coffin Drop through the coffin to close the show.

The IIconics, Now Free Agents, Bid Farewell To WWE Personas

Kristen Ashly
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The duo formerly known as The IIconics said goodbye to “Peyton Royce” and “Billie Kay”, Wednesday.

Jessica McKay and Cassie Lee took to Twitter to say farewell to their old WWE gimmicks, expressing gratitude towards the opportunity to portray and create the personalities.

As pointed out by Reddit user u/braincloud215 on r/SquaredCircle, the pair’s WWE 90-day non-compete clause expires on the same day they announce their separation from the names.

Similarly, Tommy End, formerly Aleister Black, posted a video on his Instagram account in which he escapes from an “insane asylum” the same day he debuted for AEW.

In June, The IIconics appeared on Renee Paquette’s Oral Sessions podcast and revealed they were unable to work in the US, due to issues with their visa status after leaving WWE.

Though it stands as mere speculation, it is interesting to note that the two former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions say “adios” to their old gimmicks on a Wednesday—the same day AEW Dynamite airs.

https://twitter.com/JessicaMcKay/status/1415363670549405711?s=20
https://twitter.com/CassieLee/status/1415333863258267652?s=20

EJ Nduka On Why He Signed With MLW, Battle Riot III & More

Samira
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Major League Wrestling returned to live wrestling Saturday night for their Battle Riot III from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

I was on-hand at the Battle Riot as a correspondent for SEScoops and I spoke with a few MLW wrestlers. One being MLW’s newest signee, EJ “The Judge” Nduka.

When I asked why he chose to sign with MLW after becoming a free agent, Nduka answered that he likes what MLW does and feels like he’s a great fit to the company.

“MLW has been the most transparent and authentic. I love what they’re doing. I love what they continue to do and I just feel like I’m a great fit here,” said Nduka.

The discussion then moved onto me asking “The Judge” what his strategy was for the Battle Riot. “To shock the world,” Nduka stated.

Other topics discussed include the famous 2300 Arena, who he would like to wrestle with in MLW, and more.

You can watch MLW’s Battle Riot III for free on July 24th with beIN SPORTS at 10 p.m. EST.

Watch my full interview with EJ “The Judge” Nduka here:

Michael Elgin Arrested For Violating Protective Order

Chris Stephens
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Aaron Frobel, better known to wrestling fans as Michael Elgin, has been arrested for violating a protective order. He was arrested on June 29th, 2021.

His ex-fiancée alleges that Elgin violated her protective order as many as 60 times. She filed for the protective order on May 21st.

“I had a plan to leave a few times before but always backed out from fear,” an excerpt of the protective order reads (obtained by WrestlingNewsCo). “Since I left I have received hundreds of phone calls, hundreds of text messages, numerous videos, and suicide threats from him. He has also reached out to my friends and family.”

“Whenever I or someone he has reached out to block him, he uses the free text/calling apps to make a fake number and continues calling and texting. Sometimes saying it is him, sometimes pretending to be other people. I have asked him not to contact me numerous times.”

Elgin’s ex-fiance says she left the home the two shared on April 21st. She stated “I was being abused physically, mentally, verbally, and emotionally.”

A copy of the incident report obtained by WrestlingNewsCo is below:

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Elgin is a former IWGP Intercontinental Champion, NEVER Openweight Champion, and ROH World Champion. Last summer, Impact announced Elgin would no longer appear on their programming. This followed allegations made against him as part of the #SpeakingOut movement.

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