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.
WWE is always on the hunt for new talent, and now the company has brought in three athletes with Olympic pedigree, and hope to mould them into being future WWE Superstars. Shady Elnahas, Francois Prinsloo, and Aaron Fara have all joined WWE and on Twitter, the WWE NXT account shared a photo of the three signings.
Shady Elnahas, 27, is no stranger to winning as the Canadian judo fighter snagged gold at the Pan-American games in 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024. He also represented Canada at the 2021 Tokyo Summer Games as well as in the Paris Olympics last year, so comes with a wealth of combat experience.
Francois Prinsloo, 23, has been making a name as a discus thrower and represented South Africa in Paris, so his arm strength will be undeniable as a WWE recruit.
Aaron Fara, 27, hails from Austria and represented the country in Judo at the Paris Olympics, where he competed in the men’s 100kg as well as the mixed team event.
Now, all three have jumped from the Olympics to WWE and will they see similar success to fellow Olympians like Kurt Angle, Ronda Rousey, and Chad Gable? Only time will tell…
One WWE fan marked a major milestone by graduating and made his devotion to pro wrestling loud and clear during the ceremony. In footage that has since gone viral on TikTok, the fan accepted their diploma while holding a replica of the ‘Big Eagle’ version of the WWE Championship used from 1998 to 2002. In case that wasn’t enough of a clue, the fan celebrated after receiving their diploma with IYO SKY’s signature pointing gesture.
SKY is the reigning WWE Women’s World Champion after winning the gold from Rhea Ripley during the March 3, episode of WWE Raw. Despite being overlooked by Ripley and Bianca Belair on the road to WrestleMania 41, SKY proved why she shouldn’t be underestimated when she beat both women in Allegiant Stadium.
SKY has since found herself facing NXT’s Roxanne Perez and Giulia, leading to speculation that the duo are poised for a call-up. Whether on the main roster or in WWE NXT, IYO SKY continues to impress and has earned herself a legion of fans.
WWE made major cuts to its roster in May 2025, with both the main roster and those in WWE NXT being affected. While over a dozen Superstars are now facing a future outside WWE, some are still appearing on programming for now.
On the latest episode of WWE EVOLVE , Gallus (Joe Coffey and Mark Coffey) defeated Keanu Carver and Harlem Lewis. This is despite the fact that Gallus, which also includes Wolfgang, were released from WWE.
Later in the show, Javier Bernal was in action, despite also recently being released. Bernal debuted a new metalcore gimmick which consisted of headbanging and a mesh shirt, suggesting that there had been plans for a new gimmick before he was cut. This week’s WWE EVOLVE was taped in advance, explaining why talent are being used who are no longer part of WWE.
This isn’t the first time that Superstars have been presented after being given the pink slip. In 2024, Indi Hartwell competed on a pre-taped episode of SmackDown after being released. Hartwell has since signed with TNA Wrestling, and is open to a WWE return.
As for Gallus and Bernal, they will have to wait out a 30-day non-compete clause before they work elsewhere. With four talented individuals, it remains to be seen where they land next in the pro wrestling world.
Jim Ross has been diagnosed with colon cancer, in the latest health battle for the man many consider the greatest commentator of all time. On X, Vince Russo shared a heartfelt message to Ross, a man who Russo holds an immense amount of respect for.
“I will pray with everything I have in my being for the health and speedy recovery of @JRsBBQ. With the hundreds of people I worked with in the wrestling business for over 30 years—there is no one I respect more than JR.
“He’s a man’s man. A straight shooter. If he had something to say he said it TO YOU. To be in the position of power that he was in–and NOT play politics– tells you all about his character.
“I love you, JR, and I will never forget the years that I worked with you. You are one of a kind and there will never be another.
“God Bless You, Sir.”
I will pray with everything I have in my being for the health and speedy recovery of @JRsBBQ.
With the hundreds of people I worked with in the wrestling business for over 30 years—there is no one I respect more than JR.
This isn’t Ross’ first battle with cancer, as he was diagnosed with skin cancer in late 2021. That same year, Ross shared that he was cancer free. We here at SEScoops are continuing to send Jim our very best amid this latest battle with cancer.
Mina Shirakawa and Kairi Sane may be on opposite sides of the AEW-WWE ‘war’ but came together to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with former WWE Superstar Matt Riddle. The pair trained with Riddle at the RUDOS Brazilian Jiu Jitsu facility, run by the former WWE United States Champion.
Riddle is not the only notable name who helps train fighters at the facility. Shayna Baszler, who was recently released from WWE, also works as a ‘professor’ at RUDOS, as does WWE Raw Superstar Karrion Kross. The facility offers “World Class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu led by experienced and accomplished instructors” for novices and professional fighters, according to the company’s website.
Back in the ring, Shirakawa recently earned herself a Women’s World Title match, a contest that will put her back in the ring with ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm. While Sane has yet to compete for WWE this year, fans can expect a hard-hitting style from the Pirate Princess thanks to her training.
Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev’s tumultuous split is now officially behind them, as the former WWE star has finalized her divorce from the Dancing with the Stars pro. According to legal documents obtained by TMZ, Nikki will pay Artem $3,500 per month in child support for their son, Matteo. The financial settlement also includes two lump-sum payments totaling $200,000—$100,000 upfront and another $100,000 due by the end of 2025.
Nikki will also cover the full cost of Matteo’s speech therapy, while both parents will share expenses for extracurricular activities. Nikki, who has teased returning to WWE, will remain full control of her business ventures including her wine label, Bonita Bonita. Custody arrangements stipulate that the exes will alternate major holidays with Matteo each year.
The couple married in 2022 but Artem was arrested in August 2024 following claims of domestic violence. Artem, however, countered by alleging Nikki was the aggressor and the couple reached a settlement in November 2024. Now, the court has finalized their agreement.
With this marriage behind her, Nikki is ready to do more in wrestling after appearing at this year’s Royal Rumble PLE. With Chelsea Green being open about a potential hair vs. hair match, it appears to be just a matter of time before fans see the longest-reigning WWE Divas Champion in the ring again.
The Motor City Machine Guns may be a part of WWE, but their future in the ring could lead Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin back to TNA Wrestling. Speaking to Metro UK, Shelley recalled coming close to facing the wrestling brothers when both teams were in TNA.
“It was scheduled once. Maybe 2011, there was a UK tour TNA had booked that match on in particular. And I can’t remember where it was gonna be. It was gonna be somewhere in England.”
Ultimately plans changed and the match never came to pass. While both teams have seen plenty of success both in and out of WWE and TNA, a tag-team match pitting the two teams against one another is yet to happen.
“We’ve somehow managed to evade the Hardy Boyz our entire career, and it’s probably time that we get that match.”
WWE’s ongoing partnership with TNA Wrestling makes this match a genuine possibility. After competing in a TLC match on SmackDown only recently, Shelley and Sabin are ready to face the innovators of the stipulation.
Five years after his WWE release, Matt Cardona has achieved something remarkable in professional wrestling: relevance without television. In an industry where visibility typically correlates with weekly TV exposure, Cardona has not only maintained his profile but amplified it, becoming more successful than during his 14-year WWE tenure as Zack Ryder.
Speaking candidly on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Cardona reveals the strategic thinking behind his character evolution that has led to unprecedented independent success.
The Death of Zack Ryder
“Zack Ryder’s dead,” Cardona states matter-of-factly. “And I don’t mean that in a negative way. Zack Ryder set me up for Matt Cardona.”
This clear-eyed assessment of his former persona reveals Cardona’s pragmatic approach to wrestling identity. Rather than clinging to past glories or resenting his release, he recognized the opportunity for reinvention.
“I think Zack Ryder set me up for Matt Cardona,” he explains. “That intercell title, I’m grateful for it. What a moment that was. It was my Wrestlemania moment that I will never forget.”
This perspective – appreciating the past while focusing on the future – has allowed Cardona to leverage his WWE history without being defined by it.
At wrestling conventions, he estimates “75% Matt, 25% Zack” when it comes to autograph requests, showing his successful transition while maintaining the marketability of his previous character.
The Indie God and Death Match King: Creating Perception
Perhaps Cardona’s most brilliant character work came with his transformation into the self-proclaimed “Death Match King” – despite having only one actual death match.
“People say all the time, ‘Oh, man. I love all your death matches.’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, thanks, bro. The one, but I’ve worked the whole wrestling world into thinking I’m this deathmatch wrestler because I had one,'” Cardona reveals with a knowing laugh.
This sleight of hand – creating a perception larger than reality – demonstrates Cardona’s understanding of wrestling psychology. By leaning completely into the character, wearing a crown, and repeatedly claiming the title, he made it real in fans’ minds.
“Perception is reality,” Cardona notes. “I used to hate that saying, but it’s true. It is so true.”
The Complete Matt Cardona: Building a Character with Layers
Following a pectoral injury that sidelined him in 2023, Cardona needed yet another reinvention.
“I can’t just come back wearing that crown or that indie god hat again,” he explains. “I needed a fresh coat of paint.”
The solution became “The Complete” Matt Cardona – a nickname with multiple layers of meaning that encapsulates his entire wrestling journey.
“It means so many things,” Cardona explains. “Like the total package like Lex Luger, like I can do it all. I looked apart. I wrestled apart. I talked apart. Or the complete like everything that led to this point in my career, whether it be the major brothers or the YouTube broski stuff or winning the IC title or getting fired, then the death match king, the indie guy, everything wrapped into one, is the complete Matt Cardona.”
This approach to character building – creating a nickname with multiple interpretations and layers of meaning – shows a deeper understanding of wrestling psychology than the one-dimensional characters often seen on television.
The Heel Turn WWE Never Gave Him
Central to Cardona’s independent success has been his transformation into a heel – something he longed for but never received in WWE.
“I would have loved the opportunity to show the different side, the heel side, if you will, but in WWE, like you could pitch all day. They’re not necessarily going to do it,” Cardona explains. “On the Independence can do whatever I want.”
This creative freedom allowed Cardona to “organically turn heel” on the indies, finding a character space that resonates both with his natural talents and audience expectations.
“I love that the fans hate me now,” he says. “I think they’re starting to love to hate me, which is fine, too, because they’re still buying my merch.”
Creating Through-Lines in Fragmented Indies
Independent wrestling presents unique challenges for character continuity. Unlike WWE’s controlled weekly narrative, independent shows are isolated events, often with completely different audiences.
“There’s so rarely a through line in independent wrestling,” the interviewer notes. “You can work as a baby face on Saturday, go to another town on Sunday, you’re working as a heel.”
Cardona overcomes this fragmentation through social media and streaming platforms.
“Independent wrestling 10 years ago, if it happened in New Jersey, it happened that night in New Jersey,” he explains. “Now it’s streaming. People can watch all over the world.”
By aggressively promoting events before and after on social media, Cardona creates continuity between otherwise disconnected shows. This modern approach solves a traditional problem of independent wrestling – the difficulty of building coherent character arcs across different promotions.
The Psychology of Entrance and Reintroduction
Cardona’s understanding of wrestling psychology extends to his approach to entering unfamiliar markets. He credits William Regal with a crucial lesson:
“Every time you walk through the curtain, you have to pretend that they don’t know who you are,” Cardona recounts. “You need to reintroduce yourself and tell that story in the ring.”
This principle informs how Cardona approaches performances in different markets. Rather than assuming name recognition, he reestablishes his character in the opening moments of every match.
“For me, it’s just so easy because I’m this chicken [expletive] heel,” he explains. “It’s as simple as like ding ding ding, like we’re about to lock up. I just roll out of the ring.”
These simple but effective heel tactics – avoiding contact, breaking high-five promises, ripping signs – allow Cardona to quickly establish character regardless of the audience’s familiarity with his work.
Being Uncool: The Secret to Effective Heel Work
Perhaps most significantly, Cardona understands something many modern heels miss: the willingness to be genuinely uncool.
“I feel like these bad guys now, they don’t want to be uncool. I have no problem being uncool, you know?” he says.
This commitment to genuine heel work – eschewing the “cool heel” phenomenon that often undermines true heat – has allowed Cardona to generate authentic negative reactions rather than the performative boos often directed at popular villains.
Moments Over Moves
Cardona’s character-first approach extends to his ring philosophy.
“I tell people on the indies when they ask for advice, it’s not about the moves. It’s about the moments,” he explains.
This philosophy prioritizes emotional connection over athletic spectacle – understanding that wrestling’s most memorable elements are rarely the moves themselves but the moments that give them meaning.
Cardona illustrates this with a perfect example: “Rock-Hogan, right? Arguably the best match of all time. If you have two indie guys, random guys do that match move for move at some random show, it’s going to be the worst match ever. But the people were invested in those two men, those two characters, the story.”
The Complete Package
Five years after his WWE release, Matt Cardona has demonstrated mastery of the art of wrestling reinvention. Through strategic character development, psychological understanding, and adaptation to modern media landscapes, he’s crafted a character with greater depth and profitability than his television predecessor.
“This is the most successful I’ve ever been in my career as Matt Cardona,” he states with conviction.
For wrestlers, fans, and students of character development, Cardona’s post-WWE evolution offers a masterclass in the art of reinvention – proving that in wrestling, perception is reality, and a wrestler with control of their narrative is never truly constrained.
WWE will be well-represented at the 2025 Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards.
Today, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson earned three nominations: Favorite Movie Actor for “Red One,” Favorite Male Animated Voice for “Moana 2,” and Favorite Song from a Movie for “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” from “Moana 2.” Additionally, “Moana 2” received a nomination for Favorite Animated Movie.
The Bella Twins’ podcast “The Nikki & Brie Show” was nominated for Favorite Podcast.
Several WWE celebrity guests also received nominations:
Cardi B (Favorite Female Artist)
Bad Bunny (Favorite Male Artist)
Jelly Roll (Favorite Male Artist, Favorite Album, and Favorite Song from a Movie)
The Weeknd (Favorite Male Artist, Favorite Song, and Favorite Album)
Travis Scott (Favorite Male Artist)
IShowSpeed (Favorite Gamer)
Kai Cenat (Favorite Gamer)
The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards 2025 will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The ceremony will be broadcast live from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, starting at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), with Tyla serving as the host.
As one of the most decorated luchadors to recently join WWE, Penta brings a uniquely qualified perspective on the company’s newly announced partnership with Mexican wrestling promotion AAA – and he couldn’t be more enthusiastic about what it means for wrestlers from his home country.
“It’s good for the business, it’s good for the trans you, I think it’s a very very good opportunity for the Mexican wrestler, the jungle wrestlers and in general the Mexican Brother,” Penta explained during a recent appearance on WWE Raw Talk. “Because this door bigger. That’s what any other opportunity in the world.”
The landmark partnership between WWE and AAA was announced less than a month ago, creating a potential talent pipeline between the two organizations that have historically operated in separate wrestling ecosystems. Penta, who built much of his international reputation in AAA before making the jump to WWE earlier this year, emphasized the significance of this new relationship.
“I don’t know exactly what is the form. I don’t know exactly how will be the Mexican, I don’t know,” he admitted, acknowledging that specific details about the partnership implementation remain unclear. “But I’m sure this is the best opportunity for all Mexican wrestlers, brother. I hope that I wanna see more wrestler here in WWE, you know, like Luchados, obviously.”
Penta’s enthusiasm underscores the potential industry-shifting implications of this deal. While WWE has featured notable Mexican stars throughout its history – from Rey Mysterio to Alberto Del Rio to Santos Escobar – the AAA partnership could accelerate talent exchange and create new cross-promotional opportunities previously unavailable.
“To be honest, man, and serious, I think it’s good for the business, bro,” Penta concluded on the partnership.
“I don’t know when to start. I don’t know how the real formula for this project, but just I feel in my heart this is a good business.”
With Penta already making waves on Raw and the WWE-AAA partnership just beginning to take shape, wrestling fans could soon see an unprecedented influx of Mexican wrestling talent and style that fundamentally reshapes WWE programming in the months and years ahead.
Dave Bautista’s latest action movie, “Trap House,” is slated to be the first theatrical release from the newly launched film distribution company Aura Entertainment.
According to a report from Deadline, the film is scheduled to hit theaters on November 14, 2025.Deadline describes the movie as being “centered on a team of elite DEA agents whose rebellious teenage children use their parents’ own tactics—surveillance, infiltration, and non-lethal weapons—to rob a ruthless drug cartel.”
Bautista, the former WWE Champion turned Hollywood star, is expected to feature prominently in the action. Adding to his involvement, Bautista’s own production company, Dogbone Entertainment, is listed among the producers for the film.
This project marks a significant debut for Aura Entertainment, which is entering the film distribution landscape with a star-powered action vehicle. Bautista starred in “In the Lost Lands,” a fantasy adventure released around March 2025.
In the film, which merges post-apocalyptic, western, and fantasy themes, Bautista plays Boyce, a guide escorting a sorceress (Milla Jovovich) through a treacherous wilderness.
For Zelina Vega, the April 25, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown will always be remembered. Not only did she win the WWE Women’s U.S. Title, her first taste of singles gold, but also witnessed her husband Alistar Black make his surprise return to the company after years away. Speaking to Steve Fall on Ten Cont, Vega gushed about the special night.
“I’ve had so many dreams of like ‘It’ll be so great to become champion, it’ll be so great if he came back’… and you always wake up from those dreams, but this one I didn’t wake up from.”
The surreal experience began before SmackDown when Vega learned of her impending title win. Even with mere hours between learning of her victory and the win itself, Vega was surprisingly subdued as she awaited her moment of glory.
“I actually didn’t know until maybe 3 hours before the show started. I wasn’t nervous surprisingly. Normally I’m always nervous… I get like hawks. I’m very much a nervous person.”
The reason for her calm? Her mind was elsewhere, namely with her husband.
“My husband was coming back and I think I was so fixated on that, seeing him at work again and traveling with him again. I think my brain was just so focused on that that I didn’t have time to get nervous.”
The double celebration created what she describes as a dreamlike experience which Vegas added was “mind-blowing.” Now, the reunited couple is traveling together again, restoring their routines that were in place prior to Black’s previous exit from WWE.
“Even now still, sitting next to him on the plane, I’m like ‘You’re really here right now? That’s really a thing?’ So I’m still getting used to it, but in the best of ways.”
As Vega settles into her role as champion and the couple reestablishes their travel routines, including their “car ritual” of listening to City and Color while driving between venues. With her title and her husband, Vega concluded that everything feels right in her world again—a perfect alignment of personal and professional dreams realized on a single, unforgettable night.
WWE legend Tatanka has announced he will be attending WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24, 2025, alongside his wife Michelle and their two sons, Joseph and Jeremiah Chavis.
Sharing his excitement on Instagram, Tatanka thanked WWE and expressed pride in his family’s Native American heritage, declaring, “The #NativeAmerican Dynasty Begins!”
Tatanka, known for his iconic run in the 1990s (and sporadic WWE appearances in the mid-2010s) remains a beloved figure among wrestling fans.
His sons, Joseph and Jeremiah, are following in his footsteps, with Jeremiah already gaining experience in wrestling training and appearances.
Saturday Night’s Main Event (5/24) will feature Logan Paul challenging Jey Uso for the World Heavyweight Championship and CM Punk teaming with Sami Zayn against Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker.
Former professional wrestling star Billy Jack Haynes, who recently appeared on Vice’s documentary series “Dark Side of the Ring,” has been deemed unfit to stand trial for the alleged murder of 85-year-old Janette Becraft.
Court Orders Mental Health Treatment
On Wednesday, Multnomah County Judge Angela Lucero ordered William Albert Haynes (known professionally as Billy Jack Haynes) to be committed to the Oregon State Hospital after ruling he is unable to assist in his own defense.
According to reporting by KATU News, the Portland ABC Affiliate, the decision came after a certified evaluator examined Haynes’ behavior during court proceedings, along with statements from his attorneys and stipulations from both the defense and prosecution confirming his mental unfitness.
Serious Charges
Haynes was arrested in February 2024 and faces charges of second-degree murder with a domestic violence enhancement and unlawful use of a weapon in connection with Becraft’s death. Few details about the alleged killing have been made public, as the case involves a secret grand jury indictment with no publicly filed probable cause affidavit.
The former wrestler waived his right to a preventative detention hearing (similar to a bail hearing) twice in April and May 2024, which might have revealed more information about the case.
Extended Timeline
The court has scheduled another hearing regarding Haynes’ fitness for May 20, though his trial—currently set for December 2025—remains in doubt. According to court records, Haynes could be committed to the Oregon State Hospital for anywhere from one to three years while undergoing treatment.
Wrestling Background
Haynes gained fame as a professional wrestler in the Portland area and beyond, with his career spanning multiple wrestling promotions in the 1980s. His story was recently featured on Vice TV’s documentary series “Dark Side of the Ring,” which explores controversial and tragic stories from professional wrestling history.
The case represents a dramatic fall for the once-prominent athlete, now facing serious criminal charges while undergoing court-mandated psychiatric evaluation and treatment.
Recently released WWE NXT Superstar Jakara Jackson is embarking on a new chapter in her professional wrestling career, unveiling her new ring name as she prepares to enter the free-agent market. The performer will now be known as Mara Sadè.
Jackson announced the change by updating her name on her X social media profile. This move comes shortly after she confirmed earlier this week that she has no intention of retiring from wrestling following her WWE release. She has also come up with a new banner for her Twitter.
Jackson was one of 17 WWE talents confirmed to have departed the company in early May 2025, among 11 stars from the NXT brand. Her release occurred alongside that of her former Meta-Four stablemate, Oro Mensah.
During her time in NXT, Jackson was a prominent member of the Meta-Four faction, showcasing her athletic abilities and charisma. Her adoption of the new ring name Mara Sadè signals a fresh start as she looks to make her mark on the independent wrestling scene and beyond. She is still waiting out her 30-day non-compete.
Ross has faced several significant health challenges in recent years, including two bouts of skin cancer in 2021 and 2024, and other hospitalizations he’s mentioned on social media.
SEScoops wishes Jim Ross a full and speedy recovery.
Legendary ring announcer Lilian Garcia recently let her fans know that she is set to return at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24th.
Taking to Instagram, Garcia revealed that she will back on mic in front of fans:
“9 more days until I’m back on the mic inside a wrestling ring in front of the best fans in the world!”
Lilian Garcia previously returned to the company last year after Samantha Irvin departed the company. She worked on WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown until March before finishing up with the company full-time after the SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain.
During an interview withInsight with Chris Van Vliet, Lilian Garcia stated that her initial return to WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown led to her involvement in Saturday Night’s Main Event. She loves what she does and said:
“But what was so beautiful that has evolved from it is that even though I’m not going to do the full-time SmackDown announcer anymore, they said, ‘You know what? We love having you [be a] part of this. We want to extend. We want you to Saturday Night’s Main Event. We think you’re a perfect fit for that.’
“I love it, I get to wear gowns for that, we dress up a little bit…Then they’re like, look, we’ve got a lot of other shows that we know we’re in talks right now on what we can do. So I’m like, whatever you guys need. Again, whatever you need. Just put me in coach, I’m here.”
Saturday Night’s Main Event will emanate from the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. A couple of matches have been announced for the event. Jey Uso will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Logan Paul, while CM Punk and Sami Zayn will join forces to face Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker.
Lexis King has made an impact during his time with WWE NXT, and the former Brian Pillman Jr. isn’t holding back about his former employer: AEW. On X, King hyped up his main event appearance on WWE Evolve, calling it a major moment for the brand.
Tonight #WWEEvolve has the glorious privilege of hosting the King in its main event!
While I don’t foresee the competition to be steep I will say this…
Evolve is not a downgrade, it is not a demotion, it is fresh green land to be conquered by none other than myself!!!#LLLK ?
While many were excited to see King in action, one fan made clear that they’d be watching AEW Dynamite instead. While the fan mocked King for being on Evolve, calling it “developmental for the developmental” King had some choice words of his own.
So you’ll be watching the developmental for the developmental for the developmental?
While considered as WWE’s developmental territory, WWE NXT is home to plenty of AEW alum. Alongside King, fans can watch NXT North American Champion Ricky Saints, Ethan Page, and Shawn Spears, all of whom were once ‘All-Elite.’
King is already a former NXT Heritage Cup holder, and winning a title is beyond what he accomplished in AEW. As fans wait and see what’s next for King, the second-generation star is pleased to be out of the developmental for developmental for developmental.
CM Punk’s potential involvement in WWE Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia on June 28 is drawing attention given his previous criticisms of WWE’s partnership with the kingdom. Punk has since shared that he doesn’t hate Saudi Arabia, renewing the hopes of fans in the country wishing to see him live.
According to an update from Mike Johnson of PWInsider, while the card remains subject to change, he would “certainly believe” that Punk will appear at the upcoming Premium Live Event. Currently, no matches have been confirmed for Night of Champions, though title matches are expected at the upcoming event.
Punk’s current stance on Saudi Arabia is a notable shift from his infamous 2020 jab at The Miz, where he said, “Go suck a blood money covered d** in Saudi Arabia you f*****g dork.” WWE has faced criticism for years for its partnership with Saudi Arabia which has proven to be one of the promotion’s biggest money makers.
As for who Punk will face in his Saudi debut, time will tell, but all signs point to the Best in the World heading to Riyadh next month.
Say his name and he appears. Well, TNA World Champion Joe Hendry recently showed up at the Edinburgh’s Tynecastle stadium on Wednesday, May 14th.
Joe Hendry returned to his hometown and cheered on for Heart of Midlothian FC in their match against St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership. He appeared during half-time and came out to his iconic entrance music.
Joe Hendry also joined in for an on-pitch interview and revealed that his family is a lifelong Hearts fans. The Scotsman then said that the Edinburgh-based club would win the big one, similar to his TNA title victory in January. Hendry had a great time watching the clash as Heart of Midlothian FC indeed won the game with 2-1 score.
Hendry surprised fans last month when he turned up to answer Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41. Though he faced ‘The Viper’ in a losing effort, he had his WrestleMania moment. The appearance in Edinburgh marks his first apperance in his hometown after WrestleMania 41.
In March, he also competed in the city for Discovery Wrestling’s Year 10 event. At the show, he defeated Man Like DeReiss. He is currently in a feud with NXT’s Trick Williams and has been making regular appearances on NXT alongside TNA Wrestling.
In the modern professional wrestling landscape, power couples typically follow similar career trajectories – both signed to the same promotion, often appearing on-screen together, leveraging their real-life relationship for storyline purposes. Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green have charted a different path, creating a unique dynamic that spans the industry’s largest promotion and its thriving independent scene.
During a candid conversation on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Cardona opens up about this unconventional wrestling partnership. While Green enjoys her most successful WWE run to date, Cardona has built an empire outside the corporate wrestling structure, creating a relationship that bridges wrestling’s often disconnected worlds.
Chelsea Green’s WWE Renaissance
Cardona’s pride in his wife’s WWE success radiates throughout his discussion of Green’s career.
“So proud of her,” he beams. “Like I’m her biggest fan. Rooting her on, you know? I get all her trading cards, all her action figures, all her shirts.”
Green’s current WWE run represents a vindication after her previous tenure ended with what Cardona describes as a missed opportunity:
“I knew when she got released the first time they missed the boat, you know, and she was killing it on the indies.”
When WWE called Green back, Cardona supported her return despite it separating their working lives.
“When she got the call to go back, she had to go back,” he explains, acknowledging the opportunity’s significance.
What differentiates this WWE run from Green’s previous one, according to Cardona, is opportunity:
“She’s always had the talent, but she didn’t get the opportunity. And that’s fine. Not everyone always gets an opportunity. But she did this time around and she is making the most of it.”
The Opportunity Maximizer
Cardona particularly admires Green’s ability to maximize limited screen time – a skill he cultivated during his own WWE tenure.
“She’s the epitome of that phrase you always hear in wrestling, maximize your minutes,” Cardona explains. “If she has 20 seconds in a backstage promo with six other people, you’ll remember that Chelsea Green was there.”
This talent for memorability in brief appearances has been central to Green’s character development. Rather than requiring extended segments, she creates viral moments within the constraints she’s given – a challenging skill in WWE’s ensemble cast environment.
The Independent Entrepreneur and WWE Star
The couple’s unique professional arrangement creates an interesting dynamic – Cardona thriving in the independent wrestling world while Green excels within WWE’s corporate structure.
This arrangement provides both with unique advantages. Green benefits from the stability, exposure, and resources of WWE, while Cardona enjoys the creative freedom, entrepreneurial opportunities, and schedule flexibility of independence.
Van Vliet asked Cardona if he expected to get a call from WWE when Chelsea returned.
“When all those people got rehired, I’m not sure what the prerequisite to getting rehired was,” Cardona responded. “It is what it is. It’s just everyone has a different path, everyone has a different journey.”
The Financial Reality
Interestingly, their unconventional arrangement has proven financially beneficial. While many might assume WWE represents the pinnacle of wrestling earnings, Cardona reveals he now makes more than during his WWE tenure.
When asked if he makes more money now than his best year in WWE – “100%,” Cardona responds without hesitation.
This financial reality challenges conventional wisdom about wrestling careers. Through his diversified income streams – wrestling bookings, merchandise, podcast, toy company, conventions – Cardona has built a more lucrative career outside the industry leader than within it.
Meanwhile, Green benefits from WWE’s increasingly substantial contracts, creating a household with income from both wrestling’s corporate and entrepreneurial worlds.
Balancing Life and Wrestling
The couple’s career dichotomy extends to their personal planning as well. When asked about starting a family, Cardona explains:
“Chelsea and I want to start a family, but that, you know, our careers are thriving right now, especially hers. So, there’s there’s no time to press the pause button.”
This career-focused approach prioritizes their current momentum while acknowledging future family aspirations. The recognition of Green’s particularly significant career moment shows Cardona’s support for her professional trajectory.
The Injured Superstar Support System
When Cardona tore his pectoral muscle, his independent status meant no automatic medical support.
“I had to have Chelsea ask WWE to get me in with a surgeon,” he reveals, explaining how his civilian status left him struggling to get timely care.
“WWE got me with their doctor in Orlando. I had surgery in a couple days,” Cardona explains, contrasting his experience with what might have happened without those connections:
“If you just have a normal job, you’re you’re an accountant or you work in retail. I think you’re screwed.”
A Model for Modern Wrestling Couples
Cardona and Green represent a new model for wrestling relationships – one that spans the industry’s often divided worlds and leverages the advantages of both. Their partnership demonstrates how wrestlers can support each other’s distinct paths while creating a household with diversified income streams and career security.
“We should be doing something on television, whether it be in wrestling or like some sort of reality driven thing,” Cardona muses about their dynamic. “It just writes itself.”
Whether that joint project materializes or not, Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green have already created something unprecedented in wrestling – a power couple whose influence spans from WWE arenas to independent gymnasiums, from corporate wrestling to entrepreneurial ventures.
In doing so, they’ve charted a new blueprint for wrestling couples – one where individual career fulfillment doesn’t require identical journeys, and where supporting each other’s distinct paths creates something greater than either could achieve alone.
When WWE announces a round of talent releases, dreams shatter, careers hang in limbo, and performers face a crossroads. Recently released talents find themselves suddenly without the platform, paycheck, and infrastructure they’ve grown accustomed to – often with little preparation for life outside the WWE system.
Five years after his own release, Matt Cardona (formerly Zack Ryder) has emerged as both counselor and blueprint for wrestlers navigating this transition. In a revealing conversation on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Cardona details his post-WWE journey and the lessons learned along the way.
A recent tweet addressing newly released WWE talent has resonated throughout the industry with its unflinching clarity: you have three options, and only one leads to sustainable success.
The Three Paths Forward
With characteristic bluntness, Cardona outlines the three options available to released WWE talent:
“You have three options,” Cardona explains. “You can fade into obscurity, feel bad for yourself, have a pity party, never be seen again, or be delusional with your prices, never get booked again. Or you can coast off your WWE name – and I don’t just mean your literal name, I mean the fact that you’re in WWE. Just coast off that. Do a couple indies here and there, some autograph signings. You can probably do that forever.”
The third option, however, requires significantly more effort:
“Work your ass off, reinvent yourself, have a lot of [expletive] fun and make a lot of [expletive] money.”
Cardona concludes:
“You have three options. You choose. It’s not… The third one’s not easy, but it’s possible.”
Option 1: Fading Into Obscurity
The first path—disappearing from the wrestling landscape—happens more often than fans realize. Wrestlers who built their entire identities around being WWE Superstars sometimes struggle to find purpose outside that structure.
Some talents retreat from wrestling entirely, embarrassed by the perceived failure of release or unwilling to work smaller venues after performing in arenas. Others price themselves out of bookings, overestimating their market value without WWE’s platform.
“You’re going from tens of thousands of people in the audience to sometimes tens, hopefully not, but literally sometimes tens of people,” Cardona acknowledges of the adjustment.
This dramatic shift breaks some performers psychologically, their egos unable to handle the perceived downgrade. Rather than adapting, they withdraw, their careers effectively ending with their WWE departure.
Option 2: Coasting on Past Reputation
The second path—coasting on WWE fame—represents the most common trajectory according to Cardona:
“I think history shows that they fall into number two.”
This approach involves minimal reinvention, relying instead on WWE name recognition to secure occasional bookings and convention appearances. These wrestlers may work sporadically, mainly trading on nostalgia rather than creating new memorable moments.
While financially viable in the short term, this approach rarely leads to creative fulfillment or sustained relevance. Bookings eventually diminish as WWE fame fades without new accomplishments to replenish interest.
Option 3: Reinvention Through Hard Work
The third path—Cardona’s chosen route—demands relentless effort, creative reinvention, and entrepreneurial thinking. More than just accepting bookings, it requires completely reimagining one’s wrestling identity and business approach.
“It’s not easy out there on the independence, especially because a lot of these guys and girls don’t know what it’s like to do the independence,” Cardona acknowledges. “I didn’t know, and I had to just dive in head first and I had to teach myself.”
For Cardona, this meant:
Character Reinvention: Developing “The Death Match King” and later “The Complete” Matt Cardona personas, distinct from Zack Ryder
Embracing the Grind: Working shows of all sizes, from major independents to small fairs
Business Development: Treating wrestling as a business with multiple revenue streams
Social Media Dominance: Posting 10-20 times daily across platforms
Merchandising Innovation: Creating unique merchandise items beyond standard t-shirts
The Ego Challenge
According to Cardona, the primary obstacle isn’t talent but ego. Many wrestlers struggle to accept the reality shift that independence requires.
“I think you just got to embrace it,” Cardona advises. “When I’m doing push-ups out there on the street, or pissing in between the two dumpsters, I’m like, ‘This is it, baby. Here we go.’ I’m not doing it with a boo-boo face. I’m doing it with a smile.”
This attitude adjustment doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Cardona admits, “I’m not naturally positive. I don’t wake up like today’s a great day. No, I wake up and like, ‘Oh, that glass is half empty’ naturally. And I have to force and condition myself to be positive.”
Learning from Predecessors
Cardona didn’t forge this path alone. He studied those who had successfully transitioned before him.
“I stole things from Cody, from Drew McIntyre, the guys who had left and had made their names even bigger,” Cardona admits. “And then I created my own blueprint.”
This willingness to learn from others’ success models, rather than trying to reinvent the wheel entirely, accelerated Cardona’s post-WWE growth. By analyzing what worked for others while adapting strategies to his unique strengths, he created a customized approach to independence.
Financial Reality: Making More Money
Perhaps most surprisingly, Cardona reveals that his financial success has exceeded his WWE earnings.
When asked directly if he makes more money now than during his best WWE year, Cardona responds without hesitation: “100%.”
He clarifies: “The WWE guys now and girls, they have those big deals. I didn’t have those giant deals. So if I got released now making some of the money some of those people are making, maybe I wouldn’t be making the same amount of money. But for what I was making then, yes, I’m making more now.”
This financial success comes through diversification: “It’s the wrestling, it’s the podcast, it’s the conventions, the autograph signings, the pro wrestling tees, the figure business. It’s everything all combined.”
The Mentorship Role
Now five years into his post-WWE career, Cardona has become a resource for newly released talent seeking guidance.
“I got calls yesterday,” Cardona mentions, referring to recently released wrestlers. “Some people knew me, some people don’t know me. Some people reached out saying, ‘Thank you for that post. It really lit a fire under my ass.'”
Cardona embraces this mentorship role: “I’m not a gatekeeper. Anybody, whether they’re released or still or never got to WWE, I will answer any question they have. I’m not saying it’s the right answer. It’s just what has worked for me.”
The Path Forward
For wrestlers facing release in today’s wrestling landscape, Cardona’s third path offers not just survival but potential thriving. With more independent promotions running, streaming services providing visibility, and social media offering direct fan connection, the opportunity for post-WWE success has never been greater.
“Don’t quit,” Cardona advises simply. “It’s not over until you quit. When you quit, then it’s over.”
Five years after his own release, Matt Cardona stands as living proof that WWE departure can be the beginning rather than the end – if you’re willing to work harder than ever before.
“I’m going to keep working my ass off,” Cardona affirms, embodying the mindset that has transformed him from released talent to independent wrestling success story.
For today’s released wrestlers, the choice is clear: fade away, coast along, or reinvent yourself through relentless effort. According to Cardona, only one path leads to both financial success and creative fulfillment – and it begins with embracing the grind.
In April 2020, as the world grappled with the early stages of a global pandemic, Matt Cardona (formerly Zack Ryder) was among several WWE talents released in what would become the first of many roster cuts. For many released wrestlers, this scenario represents career catastrophe. For Cardona, it became the foundation of unprecedented success.
“I don’t care how you define success,” Cardona states with resolute confidence during his appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet. “This is the most successful I’ve ever been in my career as Matt Cardona.”
It’s a bold claim from someone who once enjoyed WrestleMania moments and championship victories in the world’s largest wrestling promotion. Even more surprising: it’s demonstrably true.
Multiple Revenue Streams: The Crumb Cake Business Model
When asked directly if he makes more money now than during his best financial year in WWE, Cardona’s answer comes without hesitation: “100%.” He describes his approach as a “crumbs make crumb cake situation,” combining multiple revenue sources into a thriving enterprise.
“It’s the wrestling, it’s the podcast, it’s the conventions, the autograph signings, the Pro Wrestling Tees, the figure business. It’s everything all combined,” Cardona explains.
This diversified business approach has proven more lucrative than his WWE salary, though Cardona acknowledges the landscape has changed.
“The WWE guys now and girls, they have those big deals. I didn’t have those giant deals.”
Unlike many former WWE talents who either fade away or coast on their previous reputation, Cardona transformed his release into an opportunity to build a wrestling business empire with multiple revenue streams:
Wrestling Bookings: Cardona maintains a rigorous independent wrestling schedule, accepting bookings at various price points that meet his rate.
Major Wrestling Figure Podcast: Co-hosted with Brian Myers (formerly Curt Hawkins), the podcast has grown from hobby to business.
Major Wrestling Figure Company: What began as a podcast expanded into a legitimate toy company producing licensed wrestling figures.
Merchandise and Digital Content: Cardona’s merchandise operation extends beyond traditional t-shirts to innovative items.
Whatnot Live Auctions: Every Monday at 6:30 PM, Cardona conducts live auctions selling memorabilia, signed items, and wrestling collectibles.
Convention Appearances: Leveraging both his Zack Ryder history and Matt Cardona present, he commands significant fees at wrestling conventions.
The Business Mindset: Wrestling as Enterprise
Central to Cardona’s success is his approach to wrestling as a business rather than merely a creative pursuit.
“If you treat it like a hobby, it’s going to pay like a hobby. Treat it like a business, it’s going to pay like a business,” Cardona explains. This mindset extends beyond just showing up for bookings.
Cardona operates through “Always Ready, Inc.” – his formal business entity – and approaches every aspect of his career with entrepreneurial thinking. From maximizing social media presence to strategic character development, each decision filters through a business lens.
“In the indies, I [expletive] control everything,” Cardona says, contrasting his current autonomy with WWE’s structured environment. “I literally control every little thing.”
This control extends to his merchandise strategy. “Not everything’s going to work,” he admits, discussing merchandise missteps like Death Match King crowns that underperformed. Yet these failures inform future business decisions rather than discouraging his entrepreneurial spirit.
The Social Media Machine: Constant Content Creation
Cardona’s approach to social media would exhaust most content creators. He advises posting “10-20 times” daily across platforms, an approach he follows religiously.
“If I’m not doing it, I can’t rely on anyone else to do it,” Cardona explains. “I’m literally forcing it down their throats. It’s going to come up in their feed. They’re going to see it.”
This relentless content strategy maintains visibility in a crowded wrestling landscape. When someone asked about his social media schedule, Cardona checked their phone and found they’d only posted “three or four times” in several days – unacceptable by his standards.
Creating Through-Lines in a Fragmented Industry
Independent wrestling presents unique challenges for character consistency. Unlike WWE’s controlled narrative across all shows, independent promotions operate independently.
“Independent wrestling 10 years ago, if it happened in New Jersey, it happened that night in New Jersey,” Cardona explains. “Now it’s streaming. People can watch all over the world.”
Cardona leverages social media to create consistency across his bookings, posting content before and after events to establish continuity. This approach allows his heel character to maintain coherence across diverse independent promotions.
The Blueprint for Others
Cardona’s success has made him a resource for recently released WWE talent. When wrestlers are cut, his phone rings with questions about navigating the independent scene.
His transparent documentation of his journey provides a template for others. From his merchandise strategies to his business structuring, Cardona openly shares his successes and failures as a roadmap for colleagues.
Beyond Wrestling: The Figure Empire
Perhaps most impressively, Cardona has translated his childhood passion for wrestling figures into a legitimate business venture. Major Wrestling Figure Podcast began as two wrestling friends discussing collectibles but evolved into a manufacturing operation creating licensed figures.
“We’re not just doing wrestling now,” Cardona notes, referencing expanding into figures for Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo and Jean-Claude Van Damme’s Kickboxer.
The operation benefits both Cardona and the wrestlers whose likenesses he licenses. He describes convincing Bubba Ray Dudley to sign a WWE Legends deal by explaining the complete financial picture:
“You’ll get paid for Mattel and then you’ll go to these conventions and the fans will bring it to you and you make even more money.”
Living the Dream
Five years after his WWE release, Matt Cardona embodies a new model of wrestling success – one that relies not on a single employer but on entrepreneurial spirit, diversified revenue streams, and complete creative control.
“I’ve been doing this for 21 years,” Cardona reflects. “I’ve never had a real job in my life. I worked at a deli slicing meats… I was a personal trainer at Gold’s Gym with no clients and a pro wrestler… This is my life.”
For wrestlers contemplating life after WWE or fans interested in the business of professional wrestling, Matt Cardona’s post-WWE career offers both inspiration and practical blueprint for success on your own terms.
“I don’t want to prove people wrong,” Cardona emphasizes. “I want to prove myself right.”
Willow Nightingale has secured her future with All Elite Wrestling, signing a new multi-year contract according to a Fightful report (May 14, 2025). The deal comes as the fan-favorite competitor was reportedly in her contract year, with AEW viewing her retention as a priority.
The 31-year-old “Babe With The Power” has been a cornerstone of AEW’s women’s division since officially joining in October 2022, following initial appearances in 2021. Nightingale’s accomplishments include a notable 35-day reign as AEW TBS Champion in 2024, capturing the title from Julia Hart at Dynasty before dropping it to Mercedes Moné at Double or Nothing.
"I've already been a problem for you guys. And now, I'm going to be the BIGGEST problem."
While representing AEW internationally, Nightingale has also collected championship gold in multiple promotions, holding the NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship for 45 days in 2023 and the CMLL Women’s Championship for 62 days in 2024.
