Britt Baker was the first woman signed to an AEW talent contract in 2019 and for a while, was the top star of the women’s division. Baker’s days on top are now a distant memory, and her recent social media activity may have teased a bold move.
Baker has removed all references to AEW in her Instagram bio, distancing herself from the All-Elite promotion. On X, Baker’s bio is similarly AEW-free and makes reference to her role as a wrestler and a dentist.
Baker’s alterations come amid an interesting time in the DMD’s career. Baker hasn’t competed since November 2024, and has competed just five times over the past year. Baker remains active on social media though rarely makes reference to AEW.
Interestingly, her latest reference to AEW on social media saw her throw support behind Saraya following the British wrestler’s exit from AEW.
— Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. (@RealBrittBaker) March 26, 2025
Baker’s absence has left fans wondering as to whether her time with AEW may also be coming to an end. In January, Chris Jericho cast doubt on the idea that Baker will leave AEW, following reports of alleged heat on the former Women’s World Champion.
If Baker does end her time with AEW, fans can expect WWE to make an effort to sign Baker who could also see interest from promotions overseas such as STARDOM. Whatever’s next, Britt Baker remains a talking point among wrestling fans, even with her hiatus from AEW growing day-by-day.
Jakara Jackson, recently released from WWE and now wrestling under the new in-ring name Mara Sadè, is set for the first match in her post-WWE career.
Jersey Championship Wrestling (JCW) announced on Wednesday that Sadè will challenge Masha Slamovich for the JCW World Championship at their Born (Almost) on the Fourth of July event in Asbury Park, New Jersey, on July 6th.
She quickly published a YouTube video addressing her future, stating her intent to continue wrestling. “Do I wish that I could have shown the world what I can do on my own? Hell yes,” Sadè declared. “And the way I see it, I’m still going to get that opportunity, just in a different way… keep your eyes peeled and stay tuned because the transformation is going to be something serious.”
*JCW BIRTHDAY UPDATE*
*JCW World Title Match*
MASHA SLAMOVICH (if still champ) vs MARA SADE (fka Jakara Jackson)
— Jersey Championship Wrestling (@JerseyCW) May 28, 2025
Initially indicating she might use “Miss Jackson,” she has since switched to Mara Sadè on social media. She also mentioned in her video that winning a title is a “bucket list” goal.
This JCW World Championship opportunity comes just over a month after her WWE departure. Sadè, a former Meta-Four talent on NXT TV, was released by WWE on May 2nd. She first signed with them in 2021.
Aleister Black is back in WWE, and is ready to deal with ‘unfinished business’ between himself and Cody Rhodes. Speaking candidly on the Battleground Podcast, Black expressed his enthusiasm for rekindling the feud that captivated audiences during their previous encounters in AEW.
“I think having run my storylines with him has made me so much more hungry for more of it because I feel that there was a lot more that we could have tapped into.
There was so much left in the table both verbally and stuff that was written down that we never got to that hopefully now we can kind of like pivot because the contrast between the two characters is so vast.”
Rhodes and Black are indee contrasting characters, as there’s a clear difference between Rhodes’ heroic American Dream narrative and Black’s darker, more cerebral persona. It was this contrast that made their matches so compelling when they feuded shortly after Black’s AEW debut.
“The fact that for those brief months that him and me have our history it immediately sparks up that conversation. The second the opportunity arises, people immediately go, ‘Well hey, what about Aleister and Cody Rhodes?’
That says a lot and that makes me think that the work that we did previously was appreciated to the point where people would like to see more of it.”
Black is eager to feud with Rhodes, but believes he can be patient enough for when the time is right. When asked directly about a potential WrestleMania match between the two, Black didn’t hesitate.
“I’m game. If you guys are game, I’ll do it. Either way, let’s do it.”
Rhodes is currently occupied with John Cena, the man who took the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41. But while Rhodes continues to close in on the ‘Unseen Seventeen,’ Aleister Black is waiting for the American Nightmare.
WWE Hall of Famer JBL has weighed in on the ongoing debate about John Cena’s eventual retirement, directly contradicting Jim Cornette’s prediction that the current Undisputed WWE Champion and record-breaking 17-time World Champion will end his career as a heel. During a recent episode of “Something to Wrestle,” JBL made a compelling case for why fan appreciation will ultimately triumph over any villainous persona.
When asked about Cornette’s belief that Cena will retire as a heel because “he doesn’t see a way back for him as a face after eviscerating the fans,” JBL was emphatic in his disagreement.
“I don’t see it. No. No. And I love Corny, but I disagree with that.”
The former WWE Champion believes that regardless of the reigning WWE Champion’s character alignment leading up to his retirement, the emotional weight of his final appearance will automatically turn him into a beloved figure. For JBL, the question of Cena turning face before his retirement isn’t a question of if it’ll happen, but when.
“I think he’s I think, you know, it’s one of these things where they want him to come back to be seen so so badly that when it’s all said and done, if he just comes out the next night as a baby face, the place will go nuts. They’re going to thank him. They’re going to thank him for everything.”
JBL painted a vivid scenario to illustrate his point. He believes that even if Cena were to have his last match as a heel, the emotional resonance from his next appearance after his final match couldn’t be anything but a face response.
“If he stays a heel, let’s say, and his last match is on a Sunday, he comes out on Monday Night Raw the next night, and you know, you know that that’s the last time you’re going to see him, and he comes out, that place is going to go crazy cheering for him because they’re going to be so thankful for what he’s done.”
JBL was part of WWE during Cena’s rise to the top, giving him a front row seat to fans turning on John for being ‘overpushed.’ Now, Cena is a respected figure cheered by fans, despite his on-screen heel persona.
“It’s amazing how the fans have changed. You know, at first they kind of resented him. First they kind of, you know, half liked him, half didn’t like him. Then after a while, I just got where were everybody loved the guy, you know, and it’s and it’s an appreciation, I believe, of years of service is what it is.”
JBL’s analysis reflects how wrestling retirement moments have evolved into celebrations of legacy rather than adherence to character work, particularly relevant given Cena’s recent heel turn after winning his record 17th championship at WrestleMania 41. His prediction suggests that John Cena’s retirement will be defined by gratitude rather than heel heat, with years of service ultimately mattering more than any final storyline.
At just four years old, Liberty “Libby” Rhodes is already displaying the natural charisma and crowd instincts that have made the Rhodes family wrestling legends, according to her parents’ revealing podcast discussion. The daughter of Cody and Brandi Rhodes has caught attention for her remarkable ability to read rooms and connect with people, particularly during high-profile wrestling events and celebrity encounters.
The most striking example occurred during the family’s VIP experience at The Rock’s Moana 2 premiere in Hawaii in November 2024. While initially reserved around other celebrities and refusing photos on the red carpet, Liberty’s entire demeanor shifted when she recognized Dwayne Johnson’s star power.
“And as he does it, my daughter, who is only not even four yet, turns around and waves. And she welcomed him in for a hug, full smile.”
Cody Rhodes was amazed by his daughter’s intuitive understanding of the moment and The Rock’s significance.
“It was what it took me from 18 to 25 to garner, she has it all. She gets it.”
Speaking on the What Do You Wanna Talk About? podcast, Brandi observed that Liberty possesses what wrestling families call “the carny bone” – an innate understanding of entertainment, crowd psychology, and when moments matter most. Cody recalled his daughter being well aware during WWE events, and gave her reaction to his victory at WrestleMania 40 as a prime example.
“When I walked out there, she looked at me as if I was the greatest thing ever. That is not how Libby looks at me on a daily basis. I’m the guy stomping, I made the waffle wrong, whatever.”
Liberty’s natural instincts extend beyond celebrity encounters to everyday situations where she shows remarkable emotional intelligence and performance awareness for her age. Her parents noted that she can distinguish between casual family time and special occasions, adjusting her behavior and energy accordingly – a skill that typically takes performers years to develop.
“She don’t wanna, it’s allowed, kids, it’s allowed. There’s stuff blowing up. When I walked out there, she looked at me as if I was the greatest thing ever.”
While Liberty is obviously years away from any potential wrestling involvement, her natural charisma and crowd awareness suggest the Rhodes wrestling dynasty may continue into another generation.The combination of her father’s championship pedigree and her mother’s executive experience provides Liberty with unique exposure to wrestling’s entertainment aspects from multiple perspectives.
Mark Copani remains open to a potential WWE return but maintains strict conditions about reviving his controversial Muhammad Hassan character. During an appearance on Ten Count Media with Steve Fall, the former wrestler addressed speculation about future WWE involvement
“I would be open to it depending on what they had in mind. I don’t think that there’s any interest in them as far as marketability to bring back the guy who played Muhammad Hassan, but that would be pretty much all they could do.”
The Hassan character was killed off by The Undertaker in 2005 following intense real-world controversy, and Copani believes both sides understand it should remain buried. His current career as Director of Human Resources in a city school district adds another layer of complexity to any potential return to the pro wrestling juggernaut.
“Don’t forget I am the director of human resources in a city school district. So, it would be inappropriate, insensitive, and honestly, I would never do it to begin with.
“That character is dead and was killed by the Undertaker in 2005 viciously on television. But in spirit, you know, that is 2005, this is 2025. To try to do that again would be insensitive.”
While Copani misses the crowd reactions and performing aspects of wrestling, any potential WWE return would require completely separating him from the Muhammad Hassan persona. His willingness to return as Mark Copani suggests a possible return to wrestling exists, but only under very specific circumstances that respect both cultural sensitivity and his current professional obligations.
AEW star Shelton Benjamin recently addressed a fan on X who claimed his perceived lack of charisma and inability to “get over with the crowd” were reasons he never won a world title during his WWE tenure.
Benjamin, who had notable runs with WWE (2000-2010, 2017-2023) before joining AEW in late 2024, fired back at this claim. The fan commented that Benjamin “didn’t have charisma and he couldn’t get over with the crowd although he was a great in-ring wrestler,” comparing him to others.
Benjamin responded, “I don’t think you’re old enough to look back far enough so I’ll cut you some slack but Being over with the fans was the one thing I’ve never lacked.” When the fan followed up, calling Benjamin one of their “favorite mid-card wrestlers growing up I just never seen you as a world champion,” Benjamin further clarified his stance.
“So again, you were a fan, but also according to you I never got over with the Fans, you being among them,” he pointed out. “Being over & being champ are not synonymous. You not seeing me as champ material I can only respect, so can you answer my question now, we are all still waiting.”
Benjamin, currently an AEW World Tag Team Champion, made it clear he disputed the fan’s premise about his connection with audiences.
So again, you were a fan, but also according to you I never got over with the Fans, you being among them. Being over & being champ are not synonymous. You not seeing me as champ material I can only respect, so can you answer my question now, we are all still waiting pic.twitter.com/tMEeRBPUtW
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria is open to inflict more pain on her former mentor Becky Lynch.
Valkyria is already 2-0 against ‘The Man’ but their heated rivalry seems to be far from over. The first-ever WWE Women’s Intercontinenal Champ was betrayed by her mentor Becky Lynch during the ‘Raw After WrestleMania 41.’ Lynch had attacked Valkyria after the pair lost the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships. They went on to face each other at WWE Backlash PLE where Lyra Valkyria prevailed.
Speaking with Dublin Live, Lyra Valkyria was asked where this feud is heading, and where she draws the line. The 28-year-old wrestler doesn’t seem to stop anytime soon. She said:
“Oh, no, there is no line. Really. I’ve kicked Becky in the head a lot of times, but she still doesn’t seem to have gotten the message. I’ve now beaten her twice. So, the next thing to do is… I suppose I could beat her with some weaponry.”
As WWE is heading to Dublin for WWE SmackDown in August, Lyra was pitched about possibly facing Becky Lynch in a Dublin Street Fight match and she replied:
“How good would that be? It’s Smackdown that’s coming to Dublin on August 22 [Lyra is part of the Raw lineup] but I really hope I get to be a part of that one. You know, it’s the first televised event coming live from Ireland. I’d love to be a part of it!”
Lyra Valkyria has been on a meteoric rise and she has come a long way. It is needless to mention that she thrives on the constant challenges, but her feud with Becky Lynch has given a massive boost to her career. Lyra Valkyria has showcased her incredible in-ring skills and she has brought out her best with the mic in exchanges with ‘The Man.’
WWE SmackDown will take place in Dublin on August 22nd and it will mark the first-ever televised SmackDown to emanate from Dublin. We will have to wait and see if the street fight takes place at the show. But before that, the Irish brawlers will go head to head for the title at WWE Money In The Bank on June 7th.
Deonna Purrazzo made her AEW debut in 2024, but her appearances on television have been few and far between. Now, The Virtuosa has taken a swing at AEW by sharing her frustrations in a subtle post. On X, a fan asked if Purrazzo will be “pulling up to Dynamite” ahead of the May 28, episode. Purrazzo responded with a passive-aggressive jab: “During picture in picture, probably.”
The comment was widely interpreted as shade toward AEW, and it didn’t go unnoticed—Thunder Rosa reacted with a string of laughing emojis, signaling she got the joke.
Purrazzo’s comment comes amid reports that she has previously pitched ideas to AEW management, though no creative plans have surfaced. In March, Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select shared that no creative plans were in place for Purrazzo at the time.
Her last televised appearance came on the February 26 episode of AEW Dynamite, where she lost to Harley Cameron. While she remains under contract, it remains to be seen when Purrazzo, a former TNA Knockouts Champion, will be back on TV.
John Laurinaitis, the former World Wrestling Entertainment Head of Talent Relations, agreed to cooperate with attorneys for Janel Grant in her federal civil suit against Vince McMahon and WWE, according to a statement from attorneys on Wednesday.
In a filing on Wednesday morning, attorneys for Grant filed a stipulation of dismissal against Laurinaitis in the case, dropping him as a defendant “with prejudice.”
A statement from representatives for Grant and Laurinaitis said he agreed to a confidential settlement with Grant.
“John Laurinaitis has agreed to cooperate and provide evidence in Janel Grant’s lawsuit against Vince McMahon and WWE,” the statement said. “His agreement to a confidential settlement is a pivotal next step toward holding McMahon and WWE accountable and bringing justice to Ms. Grant after years of sexual abuse and trafficking. Mr. Laurinaitis looks forward to moving on with his life. We cannot provide any additional details at this time.”
Laurinaitis was fired by WWE around the time Grant filed her lawsuit. Laurinaitis originally claimed he was a sex assault victim of McMahon when the complaint was originally filed in Connecticut federal court in January 2024. Laurinaitis later recanted and began cooperating with other defendants in the case, McMahon and WWE.
In a statement to SEScoops, Jessica T. Rosenberg, an attorney for Vince McMahon, provided a statement on Laurinaitis being dismissed from the suit.
“Today’s dismissal of John Laurinaitis as a defendant doesn’t alter the facts of this case in any way,” Rosenberg said. “Vince McMahon never mistreated Janel Grant. No matter how many press releases her team issues, the truth remains unchanged. As Mr. Laurinaitis’s lawyer previously said: ‘Mr. Laurinaitis corroborates Mr. McMahon in publicly declaring that Ms. Grant’s allegations of sexual abuse and coercion in her Complaint are completely unfounded.’”
Representatives for Grant had no comment on whether Laurinaitis’s cooperation in the case had been communicated to federal prosecutors. According to a Wall Street Journal article last year, federal prosecutors were investigating McMahon for sex trafficking and sex assault and had taken his phone as evidence for a grand jury.
Representatives for McMahon said the federal criminal case ended in January when they announced McMahon had settled his case with the Securities and Exchange Commission for undisclosed million dollar settlements. Grant’s settlement was one of those McMahon paid fined for not disclosing.
At the time, reps for Grant said they had never heard from the Department of Justice or investigators that the case against McMahon had been closed. A federal ruling over evidence submitted by McMahon and his attorney Jerry McDevitt earlier this year said the case was still ongoing.
Prior to Laurinaitis settlement and agreement with Grant, defendants in the case were expected to file a motion to compel arbitration in the case. Defendants have until June 13 to file the motion.
Former AEW executive and wrestling personality Brandi Rhodes delivered pointed criticism of wrestling industry politics during a revealing appearance on her husband Cody Rhodes’ brand new podcast, exposing the behind-the-scenes maneuvering that often shapes careers in pro wrestling.
The wife of former WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes didn’t hold back when discussing her approach to industry relationships and the price of maintaining integrity over political positioning.
“I don’t need approval from somebody I don’t approve of myself, ever. And so if the Internet will ever think, well, maybe this, maybe that, that’s fine, I don’t know you, I can’t take it personally, but I do know those people personally and I don’t need their accolades.”
Speaking on “What Do You Wanna Talk About,” Brandi addressed long-standing perceptions about her contributions to wrestling and revealed her deliberate decision to distance herself from certain power players despite potential career consequences.
The former WWE announcer and first African-American woman to hold an executive position in a North American wrestling promotion explained how her approach differed from others seeking advancement through strategic alliances.
“Some people choose to get in with people because they want that person’s voice going forward, or they hope they have that person’s voice going forward. I didn’t want that, I wanted to do what I knew was right.”
Her comments represent rare public commentary on wrestling’s corporate culture from someone who held executive positions and worked closely with top-tier talent across multiple promotions.
Cody Rhodes praised his wife’s often-overlooked contributions to the wrestling industry, noting how she advocated for other performers and established infrastructure that continues to benefit wrestlers today. However, Brandi acknowledged that her principled stance came with professional costs.
“I contributed in ways that I felt were the right ways for me to contribute. And then in the ways that I did not feel were right for me to contribute, I just didn’t.”
Now focused on her successful Naked Mind Yoga + Pilates studio in Roswell, Georgia, Brandi’s selective wrestling appearances suggest she’s found peace with her decision to prioritize personal values over industry politics.
Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena is currently portraying a heel persona during his 2025 retirement tour, recently credited Stephanie McMahon as a key influence on his portrayal of a heel.
Cena, who shocked WWE fans by turning heel at Elimination Chamber earlier this year and aligning with The Rock, has historically been WWE’s ultimate babyface for two decades. Speaking to Stephanie McMahon on her ESPN+ show, Stephanie’s Places, Cena acknowledged learning from her performances.
“Can I just say I had some really good people to learn from. You are on a very short list of names that falls into [that category],” Cena stated. He then directly admitted, “I flat out steal a lot from you. So, thanks for helping me through this.”
He is next scheduled to team with United States Champion Logan Paul against Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes at the Money in the Bank premium live event on June 7th in Los Angeles, California.
Eric Bischoff has made his biggest signing yet for Real American Freestyle Wrestling, bringing in MMA veteran and master entertainer Chael Sonnen as the league’s lead color commentator in a move that could revolutionize how amateur wrestling is presented to mainstream audiences.
Speaking on the 83 Weeks podcast with host Conrad Thompson, Bischoff couldn’t contain his excitement about landing Sonnen for the venture he’s launching with Hulk Hogan.
“Chael’s coming on as our color commentator and certainly has got a tremendous background in amateur wrestling. Knows freestyle inside and out, the MMA equation. He’ll be our I don’t know maybe kind of Jesse Ventura Joe Rogan-ish type of color commentator,” Bischoff announced.
The signing addresses what Bischoff sees as amateur wrestling’s fundamental challenge in reaching broader audiences.
“Amateur wrestling is the original sport. It’s been around forever. People that have friends or family that are involved in amateur wrestling, freestyle wrestling, you know, they know what’s up. But the other 98 or 99% of the country don’t. And Chael is going to be able to bring so much insight in an entertaining way to the property and really, like I said, educate and entertain all at the same time.”
Bischoff’s enthusiasm for Sonnen extends beyond just his technical knowledge. When Thompson suggested that “in an alternate universe, Chael Sonnen could have been a top drawing pro wrestler,” Bischoff immediately agreed, adding “And that’s what I’m so excited about with Chael for Real American Freestyle because he brings, you know, we know what the challenge is.”
The former WCW president described Sonnen as “perfect” for their vision after weeks of negotiations.
“Chael brings a lot of knowledge, experience, credibility, and entertainment to the table and can’t wait to work with him,” Bischoff said, emphasizing that Sonnen’s combination of legitimate wrestling background and proven entertainment ability makes him uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between sport and spectacle.
Real American Freestyle Wrestling plans to announce ticket sales for their Cleveland launch event within the next 10 days, with Sonnen’s commentary expected to be a centerpiece of their presentation strategy.
Earl Hebner is making waves with his passionate call for WWE to finally recognize referees as worthy of the WWE Hall of Fame. During a recent interview on Muscle Memory with MuscleManMalcolm, the iconic official didn’t hold back when discussing what he sees as a glaring oversight by WWE.
“We belong in the WWE Hall of Fame. You know, and I could give names like Mike Chioda, Nick Patrick, Teddy Long, Joey Marella, and you know, the guys that, old school, not young school, old school, sir. Guys that work their ass off and knows what’s going on in there. We deserve it.”
Hebner is already a first-ballot Hall of Famer in the eyes of many fans. Earl was part of some of WWE’s most memorable matches including the infamous Montreal Screwjob in November 1997. Hebner’s frustrations stems from years of watching wrestlers, managers, and announcers receive Hall of Fame recognition while referees remain largely ignored.
Only one referee has been inducted, that being Tim White who was posthumously honored as the Warrior Award Recipient in 2003. Now, Earl Hebner is ready to see a major change.
Former WWE superstar Mark Copani believes his Muhammad Hassan character served as a catalyst that fundamentally changed World Wrestling Entertainment’s approach to controversial storylines. Speaking with Steve Fall on Ten Count Media ahead of his Dark Side of the Ring episode, Copani argued his character marked a pivotal moment in wrestling history.
“It was the end of the attitude era and they had to really rethink their portrayal of different nationalities and different circumstances,” Copani explained. “And I think it was kind of an eye opener for them as well that they couldn’t just do what you wanted on TV anymore.”
The Muhammad Hassan character, which debuted three years after 9/11, generated unprecedented real-world controversy that transcended typical wrestling heat. Unlike previous foreign antagonists, Hassan’s storylines touched raw nerves in post-9/11 America, creating reactions WWE wasn’t prepared to handle.
“I think it might have been too late because the world was changing around the WWE and suddenly things like that weren’t looked at as entertainment anymore. They became too raw, too real,” Copani reflected.
“It was kind of cancel culture. It was really kind of early on like there was no opportunity to change that character or to change what he was saying. It was get this character off of television.”
The character’s abrupt removal in 2005 forced WWE to reconsider how cultural sensitivity intersects with entertainment, establishing new boundaries that continue influencing content decisions today.
Mark Copani found unexpected wisdom in the words of his youngest child, transforming how he views his controversial WWE career as Muhammad Hassan. During an interview with Steve Fall on Ten Count Media, the former wrestler revealed a profound moment that reshaped his perspective on professional disappointment.
“My son had said to me not too long after we watched it and he’s my youngest and he just turned 11,” Copani explained about watching the Dark Side of the Ring episode featuring his story. “And he said, you know, if that would have happened, I wouldn’t be here. And I think that’s what he was thinking is if you lived this different life, like we wouldn’t be here. And I said, well, that’s right. And that’s why I don’t regret anything that happened and I’m glad it happened that way.”
The observation from his son crystallized Copani’s evolution from wrestling disappointment to family fulfillment. Now serving as Director of Human Resources in a city school district, he’s embraced a completely different life path raising four athletic children.
“I am where I am and I’m happy where I am and I’m proud of where I am. And, you know, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I wouldn’t change anything I have,” Copani stated. “Anybody could say anything about my career in the WWE. And I honestly, excuse my language, could give a damn. It doesn’t have that effect on me like it might have in the past.”
His transformation from wrestling’s most controversial character to devoted father demonstrates how personal fulfillment can provide perspective on professional setbacks.
Following his groundbreaking victory over Joe Hendry at WWE Battleground 2025, Trick Williams now stands as wrestling’s most unique champion. As the first active WWE-contracted wrestler to hold the TNA World Championship, Williams’ reign represents far more than a title change—it symbolizes a revolutionary new era in professional wrestling where traditional promotional boundaries no longer exist.
The Revolutionary Champion: Trick Williams Breaks Wrestling Barriers
Trick Williams’ championship victory at the Yuengling Center delivered intense action that culminated in a historic moment for the wrestling industry. The match showcased the strengthened partnership between WWE and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling that has dominated wrestling headlines throughout 2025, with Williams emerging as the central figure in this cross-promotional evolution.
Match Breakdown: How Trick Williams Defeated Joe Hendry
The TNA World Championship match delivered intense action from bell to bell. Both competitors exchanged devastating signature moves and multiple near-fall sequences that kept the Tampa crowd on their feet.
In the match’s climactic moments, Williams attempted to weaponize the TNA World Championship belt, but the referee’s intervention prevented the illegal tactic. Hendry capitalized with a surprise roll-up that nearly ended Williams’ championship dreams, earning a dramatic two-count.
The turning point came when Hendry positioned himself for his finishing maneuver, the Standing Ovation. Williams countered with an eye rake, followed by a perfectly executed flapjack that drove Hendry face-first into the championship belt lying on the canvas. Williams immediately connected with his devastating Trick Shot finisher to secure the three-count and wrestling immortality.
As TNA World Champion, Williams now occupies a unique position in professional wrestling history. His championship reign challenges traditional notions of brand loyalty and territorial boundaries that have defined the industry for decades. Unlike previous cross-promotional champions who held titles while contracted elsewhere, Williams actively represents WWE while carrying TNA’s most prestigious championship.
What Trick Williams’ TNA Championship Means for Wrestling
Williams’ reign as TNA World Champion creates unique dynamics for both wrestling promotions. For WWE, having one of their rising stars hold another company’s top championship elevates NXT’s profile and demonstrates the strength of their talent development system. For TNA, placing their championship on a WWE star generates unprecedented mainstream attention and validates their position as a legitimate wrestling promotion worthy of partnership with sports entertainment’s biggest company.
The championship reign also establishes Williams as wrestling’s most compelling crossover star, someone who must navigate representing both brands while maintaining authentic storylines that serve each promotion’s interests.
Joe Hendry’s Championship Reign Comes to an End
Hendry’s TNA World Championship reign concluded at 126 days, ending a successful title run that began when he defeated Nic Nemeth at TNA Genesis. During his championship tenure, Hendry gained significant mainstream attention, including a high-profile WrestleMania 41 appearance against Randy Orton.
The Williams-Hendry rivalry had been building momentum for weeks, with both wrestlers interfering in each other’s matches and championship opportunities, creating the perfect storm for their Battleground showdown.
The Road Ahead: Williams’ Championship Challenges
The newly crowned champion faces immediate challenges that will define his historic reign. Williams must defend the TNA World Championship against Mike Santana on WWE NXT, creating a scenario where TNA’s top title is defended on WWE programming—further blurring the lines between promotions.
This championship defense represents more than a single match; it showcases how both companies are integrating their top talent and storylines for maximum impact while maintaining their distinct identities. Williams’ success or failure as champion could determine the future direction of WWE-TNA collaboration.
Trick Williams: Wrestling’s Most Intriguing Champion
Williams’ position as TNA World Champion while remaining an active WWE superstar creates unprecedented storytelling opportunities. His championship reign forces both promotions to collaborate more deeply than ever before, with storylines that must satisfy audiences of both companies while maintaining the integrity of each brand.
The success of Williams’ championship tenure could reshape how wrestling promotions approach partnerships, potentially leading to more cross-promotional championship reigns and collaborative storytelling that benefits the entire wrestling industry. Williams now carries the responsibility of proving that inter-promotional cooperation can enhance rather than diminish the value of professional wrestling championships.
Here’s the preview for tonight’s AEW Dynamite, broadcasting live at 8/7c on TBS and MAX from the El Paso County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas.
This episode marks the first Dynamite following Double or Nothing and sets the stage for next week’s Fyter Fest, as well as the road to All In Texas and other major summer events.
AEW International Title No. 1 Contender Tournament: Brody King vs. Josh Alexander These two heavyweights collide in a high-stakes qualifier, with the winner advancing toward a shot at Kenny Omega’s AEW International Championship at Fyter Fest next week. Their previous encounter ended in a time-limit draw, adding extra intrigue to tonight’s rematch.
Face-to-Face: Mercedes Moné and Toni Storm Fresh off her Women’s Owen Hart Cup victory at Double or Nothing, Mercedes Moné meets AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm in the ring. With their championship clash looming, expect fireworks as these two top stars share the spotlight just weeks before their anticipated showdown.
Hangman Adam Page addresses the AEW fans The 2025 Men’s Owen Hart Cup Champion, Hangman Page, speaks for the first time since his dramatic win over Will Ospreay at Double or Nothing. With an AEW World Title match against Jon Moxley set for All In Texas on July 12, all eyes will be on what Page has to say about his future.
Catch up on the big happenings from AEW Double or Nothing 2025:
Two top stars from WWE’s NXT brand, Stephanie Vaquer and Jordynne Grace, are reportedly expected for WWE main roster call-ups. This news came out following the May 27, 2025, NXT episode where Vaquer shockingly lost the NXT Women’s Championship to Jacy Jayne.
According to Cory Hays of PW Nexus on X, following Vaquer’s title loss, an update on her future indicates both she and Grace are expected to be called up to WWE’s main roster. The report further specified Vaquer is slated for Raw, with Grace expected for SmackDown.
It is unclear if these main roster moves will be part of a yet-to-be-announced 2025 WWE Draft. Alternatively, General Managers Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis could directly sign them to their new brands, mirroring the recent arrivals of Roxanne Perez and Giulia.
Vaquer and Grace previously battled for Vaquer’s then-NXT Women’s Title at the NXT Battleground premium live event on May 25th. Vaquer previously appeared on Raw in April, challenging Women’s World Champion IYO SKY, while Grace has made two prior WWE appearances in Women’s Royal Rumble matches.
Chelsea Green has never been quiet about her love for Kelly Kelly, often citing her as an inspiration for her own in-ring career. Speaking to Tyler Breeze on Topps’ Ripping Packs, Green gushed about Kelly Kelly when handed a card of the former Divas Champion.
“She’s my favorite woman in the history of all wrestling because she’s the most amazing beautiful talented girl ever. Let me tell you something, when she did her back hamstring elbow and she was wearing a purple outfit, I’ll never forget that day. She’s perfect and look at it [shows off card,] she looked perfect right there too.”
Kelly Kelly hasn’t regularly competed in WWE since 2012 but has appeared in three Royal Rumble matches, the most recent of which was in 2022. Green would make her return to WWE the following year and has since gone on to become the first-ever Women’s United States Champion.
For Chelsea Green, Kelly Kelly was more than a popular name of her era, but a true inspiration to the Canadian. It remains to be seen if Chelsea ever gets the chance to share the ring with her idol in WWE, either as allies or as opponents.
Mariah May is setting the record straight, making clear she’s not gone from AEW, but she’s merely enjoying a vacation. When a fan on X made reference to calling May ‘jobless,’ the former AEW Women’s World Champion responded.
Despite this clarification, some still argued that May was jobless, which one telling her to “Stop being unemployed and wrestle.” This earned another response from the Glamor.
May’s comments come after weeks of online chatter about her AEW status. Speculation ramped up after her loss to Toni Storm at AEW Revolution, her most recent match for AEW. In the months since her recent match, May has shared some social media posts which some fans have interpreted as signs she might be on the way out of the company.
As for when May will return, time will tell. With this reportedly being a contract year for the Glamour, big things could be coming, but for now, May is enjoying her vacation.
Chelsea Green has fought Michin several times in WWE, but their journey dates back long before either was known as a fully-branded ‘Superstar.’ Speaking to Tyler Breeze on ‘Ripping Packs.’ Green explained her connection to Michin after pulling a card of hers from a Topps trading card pack.
“Michin is like the story that never ends. I just can’t get rid of her she just keeps coming back but, you know, it’s been like that for eleven years, we’ve been like this. It’s crazy, every single time one of us goes somewhere then the other is there within months. It’s a wrestling marriage.”
Green and Michin battled for the first time in 2016 as part of TNA Xplosion, according to data provided by Cagematch. Since then, the pair have competed over a dozen times against one another in both TNA and WWE. The pair’s most high-profile match came at Saturday Night’s Main Event in December 2024, where Green bested Michin to become the first-ever Women’s United States Champion.
A rematch between Michin and Green is likely a question of when, not if. Close to a decade after their first-ever encounter, this is a ‘marriage’ that remains as strong as ever.
Jacy Jayne shocked the NXT Universe on May 27 by defeating Stephanie Vaquer in the main event of WWE NXT to become the new NXT Women’s Champion. Shortly after the broadcast concluded, Jayne took to X to address her critics directly.
“To everyone who ever doubted me, called me the third wheel, said I’d never make it… HAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!! Never doubt me again.”
To everyone who ever doubted me, called me the third wheel, said I’d never make it…
Jayne’s post followed a chaotic, interference-laden title match that ultimately saw Fallon Henley play a pivotal role. After Vaquer connected with her signature Devil’s Kiss, Henley struck with a surprise kick, giving Jayne the opening she needed to secure the pinfall. On X, Henley mocked those who had argued that there had been tensions within Fatal Influence.
Vaquer had only just defended the title against Jordynne Grace at WWE Battleground, adding to the shock of her sudden loss. Now, Vaquer may not be finished chasing championship gold, but for now, NXT has a new queen.
A Stephanie Vaquer match has been announced for the NXTxAAA Worlds Collide event set for next month.
WWE presented the NXT exclusive Battleground PPV this past weekend, which featured the NXT Women’s Champion successfully defending her title against Jordynne Grace. In a backstage segment after this bout, Vaquer was confronted by AAA stars Chik Tormenta and Dalys la Caribeña.
The confrontation turned physical when Jacy Jayne of Fatal Influence showed up and slapped Vaquer. A championship match was then made official between Vaquer and Jayne on this week’s NXT. To everyone’s surprise, Jacy was able to defeat Stephanie and become the new champion with some help from her Fatal Influence partners Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyx.
After this title change, Shawn Michaels took to X and announced that Stephanie Vaquer will be teaming up with Lola Vice to face the duo of Chik Tormenta and Dalys at the upcoming show. It was also announced that Ethan Page will be part of the show defending his newly won NA Championship.
The 2025 Worlds Collide event is set to take place at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on June 7. The show will feature stars from WWE, AAA, and TNA. Below is the current card for the show:
Six Men Tag Team Match: Legado Del Fantasma (Santos Escobar, Angel, and Berto) vs. El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr., Pagano, and Psycho Clown
AAA Mega Championship Match: Chad Gable vs. El Hijo del Vikingo
NXT North American Championship Match: Ethan Page (c) vs. Je’Von Evans vs. Laredo Kid vs. Rey Fénix
Tag Team Match: Stephanie Vaquer and Lola Vice vs. Chik Tormenta and Dalys
We’ll have to see where Vaquer ends up after this event. It wouldn’t be a surprise if she follows the footsteps of Giulia and is called up to the main roster after this due to her increased popularity in recent times.
In May 2025, WWE released several Superstars from the main roster and WWE NXT, greatly affecting several storylines at the time of the cuts. While talent won’t be seeing these released wrestlers on WWE TV anymore, unless one or some of them are rehired, they’re not gone from programming completely.
During the May 27, edition of WWE NXT, Tatum Paxley made her entrance clutching two dolls. Eagle-eyed fans will have spotted that these were dolls of Gigi Dolin and Shotzi, both of whom were released by WWE. Prior to being cut, the pair had been on-screen allies of Paxley.
This isn’t the first time the pair have been released on WWE NXT. While not mentioned by name, it was the releases of Shotzi and Dolin which recently led to Paxley turning heel and attacking Thea Hail. Paxley defeated Hail in a match on the May 13 edition of WWE NXT and continued to claw at the face of Thea Hail after the match.
While releases are rarely a good thing, it has led to a major character development for Tatum Paxley, and we’ll have to see if WWE can keep the momentum going forward.
The May 27 episode of WWE NXT delivered a standout night of action, kicking off with a high-stakes title change. In the show’s opener, Ricky Saints defended his NXT North American Championship against Ethan Page in an intense bout. NXT General Manager Ava appeared early in the segment, insisting that the match must produce a clear winner.
The contest spilled over into a commercial break, with the action escalating around the announce table. As the referee urged the competitors back into the ring, Ethan Page hit an RKO onto a steel chair at ringside, targeting Ricky Saints’ throat.
Page continued targeting Ricky’s throat, eventually snapping the top rope into him before delivering his finisher. That final sequence secured the victory and crowned Ethan Page as the new NXT North American Champion.
Later in the show, Page appeared once again and gloated with his title. It was then announced that a huge title match is coming for the new North American Champion.
This marks the latest piece of gold for Page, who is already a former NXT Champion. After capturing NXT’s two top titles for men, all within a year of his arrival in NXT on May 28, 2024, the future looks bright for the ‘All Ego’ Superstar.
