Home Blog

Gronkowski Compares WWE and NFL: “Wrestling Fans Are Truer Fans”

0

Rob Gronkowski praised WWE’s audience engagement during his interview with Steph McMahon, drawing sharp contrasts with NFL fan behavior based on his WrestleMania experience. The former Patriots star found wrestling crowds more consistently invested in the action.

“NFL fans sometimes grabbing beer if their team’s not on offense… WWE fans, they’re ready at all times, truer fans.. energy is kinetic, nothing like it,” Gronkowski said.

Behind-the-Scenes Wrestling Mishap

Gronkowski shared details of a security miscommunication during his WrestleMania involvement that created unscripted drama.

“My favorite was the security guy didn’t know I was part of the show. She looked at me, grabbed me, and I could tell she wasn’t tipped off,” he recalled.

The confusion led to improvised moments that enhanced the segment.

“So I played back—it was fixed, but I wasn’t going to fight her. Eventually, she realized, and I got to level [Jinder] Mahal. Wasn’t supposed to kick him—did it anyway.”

Attitude Era Influence

Gronkowski referenced wrestling’s cultural impact through his DX tribute at recent events.

“I chose to do a DX crotch chop entrance at Fanatics Fest—’Can’t really do that anymore, but I can’… Attitude Era, best era—kids sent home for crotch chops.”

His foundation work includes gifting equipment to youth organizations, continuing his philosophy of turning opportunities into positive outcomes for others.

Gronk Nation Youth Foundation

Beyond the gridiron and the ring, Rob Gronkowski’s passion for giving back is embodied in the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation. Established with his family, the foundation is dedicated to supporting youth through sports, education, fitness, and community engagement.

Recent initiatives include a $315,000 donation to the Tampa Bay Resiliency Fund for regional disaster relief, as well as numerous community sports equipment drives and regular visits to children’s hospitals. Gronkowski’s foundation also partners with organizations such as Kids 2 Camp to provide scholarships and memorable camp experiences for disadvantaged youth.

Readers can learn more about these ongoing efforts or support the mission directly at the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation’s official website.

Ongoing Charity Work

Gronkowski’s commitment to philanthropy extends far beyond his own organization. In 2025, he participated in charity pickleball events to raise funds for cancer research, and he frequently lends his voice to causes close to his heart, including The Jimmy Fund and ALS awareness.

Rob Gronkowski’s WWE Career Highlights

Gronkowski’s journey from NFL superstar to WWE personality is marked by several memorable moments that underscore his genuine love for professional wrestling. Gronkowski made his WWE debut at WrestleMania 33 in 2017, storming the ring to help longtime friend Mojo Rawley claim victory in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

Three years later, Gronkowski officially signed with WWE and was named the host of WrestleMania 36, where he stunned fans by capturing the WWE 24/7 Championship in a daring on-screen leap – reportedly only after WWE Chairman Vince McMahon demonstrated the jump himself to boost Gronk’s confidence.

New MLW World Champion Crowned at Fightland 2025, MJF Returns

0

Mads Krugger was crowned the new MLW World Heavyweight Champion at Saturday’s MLW Fightland 2025 event. He clinched the title in dramatic fashion, cashing in his Gravity Gamble contract to make the main event a triple threat match against then-champion Matt Riddle and challenger Donovan Dijak. The bout was originally set as Riddle vs. Dijak, but Kruger’s surprise move changed the stakes.

Riddle hit his signature Brostone Piledriver on Dijak and looked poised to retain. Kruger broke up the pin, delivered a full nelson face slam to Riddle, and pinned him to win the championship. After the bell, Kruger and Dijak brawled around the arena, with Alex Hammerstone joining in the fray by attacking Kruger with a chair outside the ring.

MJF’s Return to MLW:

AEW star MJF (Maxwell Jacob Friedman) made a buzzworthy return to MLW during the show, appearing in a backstage segment with former Dynasty teammate Hammerstone. MJF delivered a promo reflecting on their shared history and encouraging Hammerstone to reclaim his former dominance. The reunion tease left fans speculating about a build to future storylines between these stars.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1967055347832811862

MLW Fightland 2025 Results:

  • Opera Cup First Round: Último Guerrero def. Esfinge
  • Opera Cup First Round: Zandokan Jr. def. Blue Panther Jr.
  • MLW Women’s Featherweight Title: Shoko Nakajima (c) def. Yuki Kamifuku
  • Texas Deathmatch: Alex Hammerstone def. Matthew Justice
  • MLW World Middleweight Title: Templario def. Ikuro Kwon to win the vacant championship
  • MLW World Championship: Mads Krule Krugger def. Matt Riddle (c) & Donovan Dijak to win the title.

Major League Wrestling returns on October 4 with MLW Slaughterhouse 2025 from Los Angeles.

Watch MLW Fightland 2025 (Full Event)

Rhea Ripley ‘Killed’ By Art The Clown In Dream Come True

0

Rhea Ripley has been brutally ‘killed’ by Art the Clown, in a dream come true for the former WWE Women’s World Champion. Appearing at Silver Scream Con, Ripley shared the stage with the star of the Terrifier film series, played in the films David Howard Thornton.

After some tensions between the two when Art grabbed Ripley’s Labubu toy, Ripley slapped Art, only to be slapped in return. This sent Ripley to the floor and a cleaver shot to the WWE Superstar finished her off. Individuals dressed as medical staff would carry away Ripley’s lifeless body

But Ripley’s untimely demise didn’t stop her from taking to social media. Shortly after the convention stunt, the WWE Superstar posted on X to share her excitement about the moment, calling it a dream come true.

Ripley has long been vocal about her love for the Terrifier franchise and its villain, Art the Clown. She has even expressed interest in being killed by Art in a future film. Recently, Ripley and Art collaborated on exclusive merchandise, with themed shirts available at Hot Topic.

Despite taking a cleaver to the head, fans won’t have to wait long to see Ripley again. She remains a key part of WWE Raw, where she’s been feuding with another face-painted demon — Asuka. Her appearance at Silver Scream Con is the latest reminder that Ripley’s popularity extends far beyond the wrestling ring.

Jillian Hall Denies Claim WWE Gimmick Parodied Brooke Hogan

0

In WWE, Jillian Hall is best remembered for her over-the-top gimmick as a terrible singer who believed she was destined for pop stardom. For years, many assumed the character was a jab at Brooke Hogan, who was pursuing a music career at the time with support from her father, Hulk Hogan.

While speaking on Ring the Belle, Jillian was asked about how the gimmick came about. The former WWE Divas Champion refuted the notion that the character was any sort of swipe at Brooke.

“I don’t know where all these people get that I was making fun of Brooke Hogan. That is so ridiculous. Untrue. Rumor. Bye.”

Instead, Hall explained that the gimmick originated at a WWE house show during a planned “best body” contest. Backstage, Ashley Massaro and Michelle McCool overheard her singing and encouraged her to turn it into a way to rile up the crowd. With the approval of agent Fit Finlay, Hall put the idea to the test.

I took the mic and I did my thing. I said, ‘I didn’t come here to take off my clothes. I came here to sing.’ And I got the biggest boo of the night.

From that point on, Hall’s “pop star” persona became a staple of her WWE career. She even reprised the character in the 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble match, once again belting out off-key notes to the dismay of fans. Now, Hall has made it clear: the infamous gimmick wasn’t aimed at Brooke Hogan — it was all in the name of entertainment.

Shawn Michaels Rules Out Return, Reveals Upcoming Surgery

0

Shawn Michaels’ in-ring career is long behind him — and now the two-time WWE Hall of Famer is preparing for major surgery. Speaking on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, Michaels was asked about the possibility of one more match. His answer was blunt: “Not a chance.”

Michaels, now the head of WWE NXT, recalled his years of injuries, including a fused back and a replaced shoulder. HBK also revealed that a double knee replacement surgery is scheduled within weeks.

 “I got two knees that I’m getting replaced in, probably a month.”

Despite the toll wrestling has taken on his body, Michaels has no regrets about his career. Michaels acknowledged that “I knew the price that was going to come along with it” but that he enjoyed every minute of being an active pro wrestler.

With WWE expected to bring in major names for WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh, fans should not expect HBK to be among them. Instead, Michaels’ focus remains on shaping the next generation of WWE talent through NXT — the latest chapter in a legendary career.

Thunder Rosa: WWE in Saudi Arabia Won’t Change Society

0

WrestleMania 43 is officially headed to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the biggest step yet in WWE’s partnership with the kingdom. At the press conference announcing the event, Bianca Belair offered her perspective on what the move means for women in wrestling.

“[Saudi Arabia is] a space specifically for women to make amazing moments.”

The role of women’s wrestling in Saudi Arabia has often been a hot-button topic, and AEW star Thunder Rosa weighed in with a much more critical take. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Rosa argued that WWE’s deal with Saudi Arabia ultimately comes down to money.

“They give them money. We’re gonna give you a show. That’s it. The stakeholders are calling the shots. And you have to go for what they tell you to do.”

While Rosa acknowledged the progress WWE’s women have made by competing in Saudi Arabia, she questioned whether those milestones create any lasting societal change.

“You’re not gonna change how society looks at women in these countries. This is part of historical religions and everything else.”

The announcement of WrestleMania 43 has already been met with backlash online, with many fans echoing Rosa’s belief that money is the driving factor. With less than two years to go before WWE’s biggest event of the year lights up Riyadh, the company faces an uphill battle convincing parts of its fanbase that the move is more than financial.

Anthony Bowens Says Lack of AEW TV Time Leaves Him Overlooked

0

Anthony Bowens has spoken out about what he sees as a lack of television time in AEW, saying it has left him “overlooked” by many. Responding to a supporter who called him underrated and urged AEW to “let him run with it,” Bowens explained why he feels overlooked. The former Tag Team Champion argued that his absence from longer matches has prevented him from fully showcasing his ability in the ring.

Bowens signed a five-year contract with AEW in November 2020 alongside Max Caster. Together, The Acclaimed captured the AEW Tag Team Championships in 2022 before later teaming with “Daddy Ass” Billy Gunn to win the AEW Trios Championships. Their trios title reign lasted 238 days — still the longest in company history.

His recent comments arrive at a pivotal point in his career. On the September 13 episode of Collision, Bowens and Caster crossed paths backstage for the first time in months. A fight broke out, ending only after Jerry Lynn intervened, reminding both men they were stronger as a team than as rivals.

Whether this moment sparks a reunion remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Anthony Bowens wants more opportunities — and longer matches — to prove his worth in AEW.

Details Behind Andrade’s WWE Exit After 2024 Return

0

Andrade is gone from WWE once again, with his second stint ending less than two years after his January 2024 return. New details have now emerged about the circumstances surrounding his departure.

According to The Takedown on SI, Andrade was effectively released by WWE, and the decision was not mutual. Sources indicated he had not been backstage at TV tapings for nearly a month, and by Saturday afternoon multiple talents had been informed that he had been let go.

Unlike many past roster cuts, Andrade’s release was not tied to budget reductions. PW Insider’s Mike Johnson also confirmed the news, reporting that it was WWE’s decision to part ways. The Takedown on SI reached out to the company for comment but did not receive a response.

Andrade rejoined WWE as part of the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match following a turbulent run in AEW. During this second tenure, he captured the WWE Speed Championship and nearly won the 2025 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Carmelo Hayes.

His final WWE appearance came at SummerSlam 2025, where he competed in the six-team TLC match for the Tag Team Championships, ultimately won by the Wyatt Sicks. At the show, Andrade teamed with Rey Fenix, who joined WWE this year.

With his WWE run now over and AEW potentially hesitant to bring him back, questions remain about Andrade’s next move. Whether he heads back to Mexico, explores opportunities in Japan, or takes time away from wrestling, the future of El Idolo is once again uncertain.

Andrade Gone From WWE, Profile Moved to Alumni Section

0

Andrade has parted ways with WWE once again, officially ending his second stint with the company. Fightful Select first reported the news, and fans can now see Andrade’s profile moved from the active roster to the “Alumni” section of WWE.com.

This marks the second time Andrade has left WWE. Originally released in 2021, he made a surprise comeback in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match. During his latest run, Andrade captured the WWE Speed Championship and came close to victory in the 2025 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Carmelo Hayes.

With Andrade’s departure, speculation immediately turns to what’s next. From 2021 to 2023, he wrestled in AEW but never won a championship. His run there was marred by inconsistency and a backstage altercation with Sammy Guevara in 2022, which took place shortly after the infamous “Brawl Out” incident. That history may make AEW hesitant to bring him back following his latest WWE exit.

Andrade’s final WWE appearance came at SummerSlam 2025, competing in the six-team TLC match for the Tag Team Championships, which was ultimately won by the Wyatt Sicks. For now, Andrade’s future remains uncertain. Whether he resurfaces in AEW, returns to CMLL, or pursues opportunities elsewhere, his time inside a WWE ring has come to a close once again.

New WWE Performance Center Under Construction in Orlando, FL

0

A new WWE Performance Center is in the works, in the promotion’s latest effort to hone its Superstars of the future. During his appearance on Nightcap with Unc & Ocho, Triple H revealed that WWE is in the process of building a brand-new Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

“It’s in Orlando. We’re in the process of building a new one now in Orlando. It’ll be even bigger and better. Our main offices are in Connecticut and L.A., but Orlando’s the developmental.”

The current WWE Performance Center, located at 5055 Forsyth Commerce Road in Orlando, opened its doors in July 2013. Some of WWE’s current top stars honed their skills in the Performance Center including Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, and many more.

In July of this year, WWE and AAA shared plans for a Performance Center in Mexico, which will hone lucha talent and give them a taste of the WWE style of doing things. With another PC planned for Orlando, WWE again demonstrates that it is ready to stack the deck with young talent to hone for the future.

Time will tell how long it’ll take for the second Orlando Performance Center to go from idea to opening day. What is clear is that WWE is sparing no expense with the development of stars.

Backstage News On WrestleMania 43 Heading To Saudi Arabia

0

WWE is still figuring everything out about WrestleMania 43.

The company made the game-changing announcement of the Show of Shows moving outside of the North American continent for the first time early on Friday. They held an online press conference revealing that Saudi Arabia will be holding the biggest wrestling event of the year in 2027.

From the amount of money involved to names being expected to appear at this show, all kinds of rumors have been going around about WrestleMania 43 since this announcement was made.

Fightful Select provided some backstage updates on the whole thing. They noted how the news was leaked by General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh earlier in the week, and some in the company wish that he hadn’t done so.

On the rumors that The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin have been made big money offers for wrestling at the PLE, a higher up in the company said that none of the rumored names have yet been approached for any such talks.

The officials are yet to finalise a date for the show. It’s something that will depend on the venue plan and WWE is expected to start developing it soon.

Regarding previous reports that the company was hoping to hold a WrestleMania-branded event in the country while still doing a Mania in North America, it’s said that the Saudi government made it clear that they wanted an actual WrestleMania and not just an event with the same name.

Nikki Bella: Asuka Match Shows How The Industry Has Changed

0

WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella battled Asuka during the September 8, episode of WWE Raw, in a match that did far more than showcase two female talents. Speaking on her Nikki and Brie Show podcast, Nikki shared how the match demonstrated how wrestling has changed, allowing older women to demonstrate their skills, in stark contrast to how things used to be.

“When you look at Asuka and I’s match, you have two women in their 40s, moms – this used to only be men they would let at this stage doing things.”

Nikki added that she was “truly honored” to share the ring with Asuka, who recently marked a decade since singing with WWE in September 2015.

WWE, and the wider wrestling world has, more so in the past, taken an issue with women growing older. Women in their late 30s and 40s have often been cast aside, while the same isn’t the case for their male counterparts of the same age. Earlier this year, Charlotte Flair told the Players Tribune that this age gap remains an issue.

“There are people in this industry who already consider me old. Nevermind that I’m literally younger than Cody, who is considered the face of the company, and Roman, who is probably our biggest star.”

For Nikki Bella, she is grateful that she was given time in the ring with Asuka, as both women proved that age is often just a number in the ring. While many believe there is still more work to be done, Nikki is ready to prove herself as a mom and as a professional wrestler.

Watch: Saudi WrestleMania Graphic Met With ‘You Sold Out’ Chants At Worlds Collide

0

Fans are letting WWE know what they think about a Saudi WrestleMania.

The Endeavor-owned promotion held an online press conference early on Friday with top names such as Triple H, Undertaker and more, announcing that the Middle Eastern country will be hosting the Show of Shows in 2027.

This marks the first time WrestleMania will be held outside of the North American continent, and fans were not happy with the company making this move to please the Saudi authorities.

People have been expressing their anger with the decision online since the announcement was made, and they also made their stance clear at the WWE/AAA Worlds Collide event.

Fans React To Saudi WrestleMania

The event held in Las Vegas after the broadcast of SmackDown featured Dominik Mysterio, Wyatt Sicks and a number of other big names.

When the company ran a video package about their WrestleMania announcement, however, loud boos were heard from the crowd, and ‘you sold out’ chants were clearly audible in the arena:

While a number of big names are rumored to appear at the Saudi Arabian show in 2027, the company has not announced many official details of the event.

With not even the date being announced for the upcoming show, it seems the deal came together quickly and the officials are still figuring things out. Stay tuned for more updates on the PLE.

Xavier Woods Recovering After Head Surgery

0

WWE’s Xavier Woods is on the road to recovery after a surgery forced him to miss competing at WWE x AAA Worlds Collide. Woods was supposed to team with Kofi Kingston to challenge AAA Tag Team Champions Pagano and Psycho Clown at the event. Instead, Grayson Waller teamed with Kingston and before the match, Woods shared that he was not medically cleared.

Taking to X, Woods shared that the concept of him not being medically cleared was no joke, and that a mass was “carved out of the back of my head” during surgery. Remaining in character, Woods blamed the lymphoma on Adam Pearce, who, according to Woods, instructed Penta to injury the former King of the Ring.

Woods later clarified that it was a lipoma (a fatty lump, usually non-cancerous), not lymphoma (cancer).

Kingston and Waller came up short in their efforts to bring the AAA Tag Team Titles to the New Day, but Pagano and Psycho Clown’s victory was short-lived. After the match, the pair were laid out by the Wyatt Sicks, who have set their sights on the AAA Tag Team Gold.

With Woods’ surgery, it remains to be seen how long he will be out of action for. In the meantime, Kingston and Waller will hold the fort for the New Day as the group continue to try and ‘revive’ the tag team division on WWE Raw.

Bo Dallas Teases A Lot More For Wyatt Sicks, Talks Bray’s Influence

0

The Wyatt Sicks has been part of WWE’s main roster for over a year and urrently hold the WWE Tag Team Championships. Now, the group has set its sights on the AAA Tag Team Titles, and even more is coming for the faction, according to its leader.

Speaking to TV Insider, Bo Dallas reflected on the group’s work so far. Looking to the future, the man behind Uncle Howdy’s mask shared that much is coming.

“A lot is coming in the near future. Stories and character development being told out of the mind of my brother and coming to actual TV screens. Using actual stories we wanted to tell in the past and unfolding.”

These ideas have been “in the works for years” according to Bo, and include ideas and angles from the mind of his late brother Windham ‘Bray Wyatt’ Rotunda. While big things may be coming, Bo doesn’t see the group growing in numbers, at least at this time.

“There are always possibilities of other people coming in the future, but right now the core and our direction and what we want to get done is going to stay as it is.”

The Wyatt Sicks’ dominance comes as the wrestling world enters Halloween, a time that is obviously linked to the macabre and menacing Bray Wyatt, for Bo, the spooky season is always a great time and he and Windham enjoyed plenty of past Halloweens.

“Me and my brother loved Halloween growing up. We were addicted to horror, different or weird or something you shouldn’t like, that was probably what we were attracted to. We had a lot of fun growing up.”

Bo plans to watch a scary movie each day in the run-up to Halloween. When asked if the Wyatt Sicks could soon find themselves on the big screen, Dallas didn’t bawk at the idea.

“I’d say the sky is the limit. I’ve taken what has been given to me and built on that. What we have been doing recently has been mind-blowing, so I’m just trying to keep the train rolling.”

The Wyatt Sicks has already been featured with the own horror event from Universal Studios, meaning fans shouldn’t count out a movie or similar project. For now, the Wyatt Sicks continues to deliver chills and thrills on WWE SmackDown.

WWE Alum Gable Steveson Dominates MMA Debut With First-Round Win

0

Olympic Gold Medalist and former WWE Superstar Gable Steveson may have finally found his place after dominating his MMA debut with a first-round victory. Steveson defeated Braden Peterson to go 1-0 in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. Steveson’s debut was part of LFA 217 and aired on UFC Fight Pass.

The win was much-needed for Steveson who has had a shaky handful of years following his Olympic Gold Medal win at the 2021 Tokyo Summer Games. That same year, Steveson signed with WWE and despite much hype, the Olympian failed to deliver in the ring. His only televised match was a double count-out draw in 2023 before he was released the following year.

Post-WWE, Steveson signed with the Buffalo Bills, though his time ias a football player also fizzled out without much to show. In March of this year, Steveson returned to wrestling in the NCAA, only to lose what was dubbed ‘the biggest upset in history’ to Wyatt Hendrickson.

Now, Steveson has won his MMA debut, and questions remain as to what his next fight will look like. Was this win a return to form for the Olympic Champion, or beginner’s luck? Time will tell…

Keep up to date with the latest, breaking news from the world of MMA at MMANews.com

Fans Rally Behind UK WrestleMania After Riyadh Announcement

0

WrestleMania will leave North America for the first time ever in 2027, though the choice of location has left fans angry. WrestleMania 43 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in two years time, the latest move as part of WWE’s lucrative partnership with Saudi Arabia that continues to frustrate fans close to a decade after launching in 2018.

Many fans feel the honor of the first international WrestleMania should have gone to the UK, a territory that has proven time and again to have an electric atmosphere. On X, Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque tried to drum up excitement for WrestleMania in Riyadh, only to be met by a wave of pro-UK responses.

It was at Money in the Bank 2023 that John Cena said he intended to bring WrestleMania to London, likely inside Wembley Stadium. While fans at the time were thrilled at the prospect, there’s been no developments publicly on this happening.

With WWE heading to Riyadh in 2027, questions remain as to how much longer fans will have to wait for a UK WrestleMania, if it comes at all. With less than two years before the lights go on in Riyadh, WWE has quite the task ahead of them promoting WrestleMania 43 after this immediate backlash.

Dominik Mysterio Wins AAA Mega Title, Berates Rey Mysterio

0

Dominik Mysterio has added more gold to his collection after capturing the AAA Mega Championship at the AAA x WWE Worlds Collide event. In the show’s main event, Dominik ended the reign of El Hijo del Vikingo to become new champion.

After the match, WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio put the title around his son’s waist. Rather than take this as a humbling moment from his legendary father, Dominik berated his father, ordering him out of the ring and miming that he’d kicked him to the proverbial curb.

Dominik’s victory as the new AAA Mega Champion marks the latest title to come to the Judgment Day. The group also holds the Intercontinental Championship thanks to Dominik as well as the World Tag Team Titles (Finn Balor & JD McDonagh.) 2025 has also seen the faction hold the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships as well as the WWE Women’s World Championship.

Now, Dominik will have to juggle his time between WWE and AAA, though the 28-year-old seems more than up to the challenge. After declaring himself the greatest Intercontinental Champion within minutes of his win earlier this year, fans can expect plenty of boasting and bravado from the new AAA Mega Champion.

Maria Kanellis-Bennett Reveals Skin Cancer Diagnosis After Surgery

0

Former WWE star Maria Kanellis-Bennett is urging fans to take skin cancer seriously after revealing she underwent surgery to remove a cancerous mole from her leg. On X, the former 24/7 Champion shared photos from her hospital bed and revealed the area where the procedure was performed.

PSA: get your moles checked!!! I had type 0 skin cancer removed today after a previous biopsy came back cancerous. Feeling very blessed they caught it so early but definitely exhausted. I will have a beautiful 3 inch scar on my leg. It’s been an interesting few years. They marked it with an eye before surgery to apparently to keep away bad spirits.

Maria is the latest name from wrestling to have to go one-on-one with a kind of cancer. Earlier this year, Ric Flair confirmed that he’d been diagnosed with cancer, marking the second time in three years that he’s been diagnosed with the disease. His comment came after previously denying he had cancer, and after saying that Jim Ross was attention seeking amid his own cancer battle.

Maria’s scary ordeal shows the importance of getting checked early, as her situation could’ve gone much worse if she had delayed. We here at SEScoops are continuing to wish her the absolute best at this time.

The Wyatt Sicks Target AAA Tag Team Gold At Worlds Collide

0

The Wyatt Sicks proved once again that they can’t be controlled after a dominant appearance at the WWE x AAA Worlds Collide event.

The New Day’s Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston were set to challenge for the AAA World Tag Team Titles, but, the bout was altered after Woods was unable to compete. Instead, it was Kofi Kingston & Grayson Waller who challenged Pagano & Psycho Clown for the good which saw the AAA stars retain.

The champions’ celebration was short lived as the lights dimmed and The Wyatt Sicks made their eerie entrance. The group then destroyed Pagano and Psycho Clown before posing with the AAA Tag Team Championships. The group already holds the WWE Tag Team Titles andd clearly wants more gold.

This appearance marked the AAA debut of the Wyatt Sicks, who left a last impression during their brief appearance. While Pagano and Psycho Clown retained on this night, their days with the gold may be numbered.

Watch: Brock Lesnar Suffers Hilarious Accident On SmackDown

0

Brock Lesnar’s latest WWE appearance did not go as planned.

The Beast Incarnate came out on this week’s episode of SmackDown coming live from the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. He was there to build his upcoming WrestlePalooza match with John Cena.

Before Lesnar could say anything about the bout, however, R-Truth made his entrance. He came out as his usual cheery self, interacting with the fans and rapping his way to the ring.

Truth said that he was here to welcome Brock before declaring that he ain’t scared of the former UFC star anymore. Lesnar claimed that he doesn’t know who Truth is.

Brock Lesnar Suffers A Wardrobe Malfunction

The former K-Kwik got the Beast to break character at one point when he told Brock that he was the brother of John Cena and introduced himself as Ron Cena.

After some more back and forth, Brock Lesnar ended up hitting Ron with an F5. The former world champion unexpectedly got his pants ripped open during this spot. Though Lesnar played it cool and even acknowledged the accident while making his way to the back.

Tonight’s show also featured the return of Cody Rhodes who issued a challenge to Drew McIntyre for WrestlePalooza. You can check out what happened with Rhodes after SmackDown went off air here.

Watch: What Happened With Cody Rhodes After SmackDown Went Off Air

0

Cody Rhodes talked about his time away after SmackDown went off air.

This week’s episode of the Blue Branded show came live from Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. The main event of the show saw Drew McIntyre taking on Randy Orton in a singles bout.

The two former world champions did not go easy on each other and The Viper got busted open the hard way during the bout. In the end, McIntyre was able to defeat Orton with a Claymore for the pin.

The Scottish Psychopath did not stop there, however, and he brought Randy out of the ring. Drew lined him up next to the announce desk to take him out for good. Before he could do so however, Cody Rhodes’ music hit and the Undisputed WWE Champion made his return.

What Happened After SmackDown

The American Nightmare fought off McIntyre with some punches and a Cody Cutter. As Drew retreated, the former AEW star took the mic and challenged the Scottish star for a match at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza PPV.

The show ended with Cody issuing the challenge but the WWE champion stayed around for a little bit longer. He cut a short promo talking about the birth of his new baby girl as well as his street fighter role.

The new face of WWE kissed the company’s logo on the mat after finishing his promo, and then hyped up the crowd for a bit before finally leaving.

Backstage Details On WWE’s Move To Bring WrestleMania To Saudi Arabia

0

It is now official: WrestleMania 43 will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the country’s “Riyadh Season.” A new report from Fightful Select has provided backstage details on the announcement, the premature leaks that preceded it, and the internal discussions surrounding the historic international event.

The news was first unofficially released via a Snapchat video from Turki Al-Sheikh, the Chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, well before WWE had planned to make the announcement. This premature leak reportedly caused a stir, with some in the industry even believing it was a fake because it was so early. A press release in Saudi Arabia also briefly went out before being pulled. The report notes that there were mixed feelings within WWE about the early announcement, with some wishing it hadn’t been tipped off, while others believed it was an intentional move to create buzz.

WWE staff had been prepared for a major announcement to be made in Las Vegas during the weekend of the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford boxing fight, but most were not told what the announcement would be. The official reveal was a private affair, with no media or public permitted. A number of WWE superstars were in town for media appearances related to the TKO-promoted fight, but they were not a part of the announcement itself.

Following the news, reports began to circulate that the Saudi partners were pushing for a “star-studded” show, with names like The Rock and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin being discussed for potential matches. However, the Fightful Select report has pumped the brakes on those rumors for now. A WWE higher-up stated that any talk of who will or won’t be on the show is “purely hypothetical at this point.” The source also noted that reports of a record-breaking payday for The Rock had “not even been broached, much less negotiated,” and that neither Austin nor The Rock have been approached about potential matches for the 2027 event.

The report also provided some logistical details. A firm date for the event has not yet been set, as it will depend on the venue plan, which could include a custom-built structure for a show of WrestleMania’s scale. The event concepts are set to begin development in the coming weeks. The report also clarified that the Saudi government made it clear they wanted an “actual WrestleMania,” not a “WrestleMania branded” event. This is reportedly one of the reasons why WWE has been so heavily promoting its new Wrestlepalooza premium live event as a major U.S.-based show.

Finally, the report touched on the perspective of the talent. While the trips to Saudi Arabia have been a source of controversy in the past, particularly after a travel incident in 2019, wrestlers who were spoken to for the report stated that the trips now “largely felt like it was safe for them to compete.” It was also noted that the majority of WWE talent are no longer specifically bonused for working the Saudi shows, as it is now simply a part of their standard contracts.

Official Date For 2026 WWE Royal Rumble Announced

0

The official date for the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble premium live event has been announced. During a special presentation on Friday where it was confirmed that WrestleMania will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027, the company also revealed that the 2026 Royal Rumble will emanate from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, January 31.

The move to hold one of its most popular and important annual events in Saudi Arabia is a major one for WWE. The Royal Rumble is traditionally considered one of the “big four” premium live events, alongside WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series, and it officially kicks off the “Road to WrestleMania” each year. This will be the first time the event has been held outside of North America and the first time it has taken place outside of the United States since the inaugural event in 1988, which was held in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

The discussion of bringing the Royal Rumble to Saudi Arabia was first reported in May 2024, and the rumors intensified in January of this year with reports that a deal had been finalized. The official announcement on Friday now confirms those reports. While a specific start time for the event was not revealed, it is expected that the show will have an early start time for fans in the United States, which has been the case for all previous WWE premium live events held in the country.

WWE’s partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia began in 2018 and has seen the company hold two premium live events in the country annually, with the exception of the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. These events have been a lucrative part of WWE’s business, with the company reportedly receiving a significant site fee for each show. Over the years, events such as the Greatest Royal Rumble, Crown Jewel, King & Queen of the Ring, Elimination Chamber, and Night of Champions have all been held in the country.

The January 31st date for the Royal Rumble is just one part of WWE’s growing commitment to its partners in Saudi Arabia. During the same presentation, it was also officially confirmed that WrestleMania will be held in the country in 2027.

WWE WrestleMania 43 Confirmed For Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

0

WrestleMania 43 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, it has been confirmed, ending much speculation about the future of WWE’s grandest show. In a much-hyped special announcement, WWE confirmed that the 2027 event will take place in Riyadh, marking the third WrestleMania outside the United States and the first outside North America.

At a press conference where he shared the ring with WWE names past and present, Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque made the announcement official. Levesque, serving as WWE’s Chief Content Officer, shared that the event will take place as part of Riyadh Season before reflecting on what WrestleMania in Riyadh means for WWE.

“History will undoubtably be made again… We could not be more excited for this opportunity. This is an opportunity for WWE to show the world what I think most people already know, that WWE is a global brand that reaches every corner of the world and excites fans from everywhere.”

Levesque’s excitement for the event was not matched by those watching live as fans shared their negative responses to the news. This reaction is the latest in a history of hostility towards WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia which many feel is more about making money and high-profile deals than about providing compelling content for fans.

WrestleMania 43 will be historic but is already proving divisive in the wrestling world. With just under two years before the lights turn on in Riyadh, it remains to be seen what kind of show awaits those traveling to Riyadh in 2027.