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Wardlow Injured Again After AEW Return (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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Wardlow Injured Again After AEW Return (Report)

AEW’s Wardlow only recently returned to programming, but fans may not see him in the ring anytime soon. According to Fightful Select, sources within AEW believe Wardlow may have sustained a torn pectoral muscle during or shortly after his comeback angle. An injury such as this could keep the former TNT Champion out for several months.

Wardlow has had his fair share of injuries and setbacks but had been medically cleared for months before his recent return. During that time, he filmed for American Gladiators, though any more filming will similarly hinge on his reported injury. Fightful adds that despite this setback, “There is the possibility he could remain on TV in an enforcer role.”

A number of AEW talents are said to be “bummed out” about Wardlow’s reported injury, given how hard he has battled through injuries to get back. Wardlow returned during the at the 2025 Forbidden Door PPV event where he aligned himself with the Don Callis family.

Whatever AEW may have planned for Wardlow, it will seemingly have to be put on the back burner for now. Once again, the former TNT Champion will have to work on bouncing back from this latest setback.

Bryan Danielson On YES! Vs. ‘What’, Favorite Crowd

Thomas Lowson
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Bryan Danielson On YES! Vs. ‘What’, Favorite Crowd

For years, one word was synonymous with Bryan Danielson, ‘YES.’ First introduced during Bryan’s slow heel turn in late 2011 and early 2012, the monosyballic chant would become a staple for the remainder of Bryan’s career both in and out of WWE.

Bryan isn’t the first wrestler to use a one-word chant, and ‘YES’ has often been compared to Stone Cold’s ‘What?’ Speaking to Nick Stav, Bryan argued that Austin’s chant would do damage to the efforts of those in the ring.

“It’s not like What. The What thing was really hard [to deal with.] Still hard to this day when a crowd really starts doing it. Somebody’s out there doing an interview and they’re trying to do their thing, but the crowd keeps interjecting at any pause….  I don’t feel like the Yes is like that. People do it when they’re excited about something.”

The crowd were certainly screaming ‘YES’ at AEW All In: London 2024, where Bryan captured the AEW World Championship, his first title in over five years. When asked about his favorite crowd, those in Wembley immediately came to mind.

“This amazing crowd reaction in front of 50 plus thousand people but my kids are there and they get to see it and then they get to get in the ring with me and then they get to experience the crowd reaction and so as a family we’re all experiencing this together.”

Starting this week, Bryan will serve as an AEW commentator as questions continue to loom about his in-ring future. While the American Dragon will be on the sidelines moving forward, don’t be surprised if there’s a YES! chant from rabid crowds, a testament to the support of Bryan Danielson.

Bryan Danielson Has Completed His Wrestling Bucket List

Wrestling Icon Sting Extending His 2025 Farewell Tour

Michael Reichlin
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Wrestling Icon Sting Extending His 2025 Farewell Tour

Wrestling fans will have a few more opportunities to meet Sting before the icon rides off into the sunset for good. Following his in-ring retirement match at AEW Revolution 2024, the WCW legend announced he’d embark on his ‘2025 or Never’ meet and greet tour, which has been in full swing.

More Appearances

During a conversation with The Wrestling Classic, Sting revealed that he’s adding “many, many” more dates to his appearance schedule. Despite not providing specifics, Sting assured fans that details are forthcoming, and we haven’t seen the last of him.

“I’m getting a lot of responses from the fans, yes. And, you know, the common question is, ‘Are you sure this is it? I mean, you’re never going to be in the face paint again? What about if you did Surfer Sting?’

It’s like, I can’t pull off Surfer Sting anymore. so yeah, I’m not… It’s not a goodbye, okay?”

– Sting talks about his future in wrestling

This news is significant for wrestling fans eager to see Sting one last time and marks the end of an era as Sting confirmed that he will not return to his previous personas, including ‘Surfer Sting.’ The face paint, synonymous with Sting’s illustrious career, is officially retired, signaling the end of a legendary chapter in professional wrestling.

Check out Sting’s complete interview on Casual Conversations:

AJ Styles Explored Options Outside WWE Before Re-Signing (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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AJ Styles Explored Options Outside WWE Before Re-Signing (Report)

This coming January will mark a decade of the WWE tenure of AJ Styles, a man many once-believed would never be a ‘Superstar.’ In 2025, Styles re-signed with the promotion, ending speculation about his future, but not before the two-time former WWE World Champion considered his options.

According to Jon Alba of Sports Illustrated, multiple sources told The Takedown that before Styles signed his latest WWE contract extension, he put feelerss out there. These feelers were to gauge potential options outside WWE, and promoters were reportedly very interested in working with him. There were some early discussions, the report adds, before Styles re-signed with WWE.

Styles’ new deal is reportedly set to expire in February 2026, meaning fans could see a huge departure during the road to WrestleMania 42. In 2019, Styles revealed that he had spoken to the Young Bucks about a move to AEW, before re-signing with WWE.

While Styles’ career in WWE has been the run most wrestlers could only dream of, there’s no shortage of people ready to see something fresh. Ajay Jones, the son of Styles, recently shared that he gets angry with his Triple H books his father, seeing it as a tantamount to disrespect.

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While Styles remains committed to WWE for now, fans know to never say never in wrestling. Similar to how there was a time when AJ Styles in WWE seemed impossible, fans shouldn’t count out a Phenomenal future in another promotion.

John Cena On Styles Clash: I Had To Say Thank-You To AJ

AJ Lee Dedicates WWE Return to her “Wonderful Weirdos”

Michael Reichlin
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AJ Lee Dedicates WWE Return to her “Wonderful Weirdos”

AJ Lee made a triumphant return to WWE on last Friday’s episode of SmackDown, marking her first appearance in the company in nearly a decade. The former Divas Champion addressed her loyal supporters on Monday via social media, dedicating this run to the “weirdos” who never forgot about her during the time away.

“You’ve had my back for a decade. This run is for you, my wonderful weirdos,” in a nod to the fans who have stood by her throughout her career.

Lee is set to appear on tonight’s episode of WWE Raw, where she is expected to continue building momentum following her comeback.

Wrestlepalooza

AJ Lee’s WWE return match is expected to take place next weekend at WWE Wrestlepalooza, where she’ll team up with CM Punk to face Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch in a high-profile mixed tag team match. As of this writing, the confirmed matches include:

  • John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar: Billed as their final encounter.
  • IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer for the vacant Women’s World Championship: Naomi vacated the title due to pregnancy, and Raw GM Adam Pearce set up this match between IYO SKY (the original #1 contender) and Stephanie Vaquer (who earned her shot via a battle royal) to determine the new champion.

WWE Wrestlepalooza takes place next Saturday, September 20, 2025 and will be the first WWE premium live event streaming on ESPN+.

Toni Storm Says She Was “Very Lost” Creatively In WWE

Andrew Ravens
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0
Toni Storm Says She Was “Very Lost” Creatively In WWE

Former AEW Women’s World Champion “Timeless” Toni Storm has opened up about her time in WWE, offering a complex and somewhat contradictory assessment of the creative freedom she was given during her run with the company from 2017 to 2021. While she stated that she had “complete creative freedom,” she also admitted that she felt she “wasn’t told what to do enough” and was often “very lost” when it came to her character’s direction.

Speaking on the “Marking Out” podcast, Storm was asked about the level of creative freedom she had in WWE. She explained the nuance of the situation. “Well here’s the thing, this is where I get stuck on it. If the WWE- I don’t think I was told what to do enough. I wasn’t told to do anything actually,” she said. “But overall like, I don’t feel like I was told what to do enough. I was very lost.”

She elaborated on the differences between production direction and character direction. “I mean like I knew there was direction in things like ‘this is how you do it, this is what you do on television, cameras.’ As in regards to a character? No, I was never like, I mean they write promos but like I was- I just did it,” Storm explained. “Wasn’t really told “do this, today you’re a cat and your names Tori bloody Smith. No one told me anything and I kept my name the whole time and it was like I had complete creative freedom to be honest, some where others didn’t and others were given things. It’s so much so a very difficult thing to grasp.”

Storm’s comments suggest that the lack of a defined character direction left her feeling creatively adrift at times. She even stated that she would have been open to a more outlandish gimmick if it had been presented to her, as it would have given her something concrete to work with. The creative freedom, in her case, was almost a double-edged sword, leaving her to navigate her own path without a clear map.

“I wish they would, I would have done anything to be honest. That’s the weird thing about this if they had just given me some mad off the wall thing, I would have 100% gone with it. This is like therapy!” she said.

https://player.fm/series/marking-out-with-mvp-dwayne-swayze/ep-18-toni-storm-unfiltered-pies-promos-the-reality-of-wrestling-stardom

AEW Dynamite Preview: 2300 Arena Residency Wraps

Michael Reichlin
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AEW Dynamite Preview: 2300 Arena Residency Wraps

AEW Dynamite returns this Wednesday night (September 10) from the legendary 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. AEW wraps up its residency at the storied venue with plenty to look forward to.

AEW World Champion Hangman Page collides with Josh Alexander in a heated non-title grudge match, while the women’s division takes center stage with a no-holds-barred Philly Street Fight between Toni Storm and Skye Blue. Plus, Shelton Benjamin faces Ricochet in their first singles clash in six years, and Mercedes Moné teams up with Emi Sakura to take on Riho and Alex Windsor in tag action that could shift the TBS title picture.

AEW Dynamite Announced Matches and Segments:

  • Hangman Adam Page vs. Josh Alexander – Non-title Grudge Match
    After Page handed Alexander a hard loss in his AEW debut, the challenger is out for redemption. Can the World Champion hold his ground, or will Alexander get the last laugh?
  • Toni Storm vs. Skye Blue – Philly Street Fight
    Expect chaos as these fierce rivals compete under street fight rules—with Philadelphia’s hardcore wrestling legacy looming large.
  • Shelton Benjamin vs. Ricochet
    Six years since their last singles meeting, two of wrestling’s most athletic competitors look to settle the score and gain momentum ahead of All Out.
  • Mercedes Moné & Emi Sakura vs. Riho & Alex Windsor
    With the TBS title scene at a boiling point, Moné enlists Emi Sakura to help take on Riho (making her return) and Windsor, both seeking vengeance after recent attacks.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest AEW news on the road to All Out 2025 next weekend on Saturday, September 20.

Sting On His Retirement: “It Was Exactly As I Envisioned It Being”

Andrew Ravens
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Sting On His Retirement: “It Was Exactly As I Envisioned It Being”

AEW legend and WWE Hall of Famer Sting has reflected on his emotional and chaotic final match, which took place at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view in 2024. In a new interview, “The Icon” stated that the moment he shared in the ring with his two sons, who were dressed as different versions of his iconic character, was the absolute “highlight” of his incredible 40-year career in professional wrestling.

Speaking with Justin Dhillon of The Wrestling Classic, Sting looked back on the night. His final match was a Tornado Tag Team match for the AEW World Tag Team Championships, where he and Darby Allin, successfully defended their titles against The Young Bucks. The bout featured glass, ladders, and even interference from his longtime rival, Ric Flair. However, it was the deeply personal moment with his sons, Garrett and Steven Borden, that stood out the most to him.

“It was exactly as I envisioned it being. It was like a dream, a surreal kind of situation to actually witness it, even though I pictured it happening exactly the way it did,” Sting said. “But an amazing night, and that’s why it just is going to be etched in my mind forever. It’s probably the highlight of 40 years for me.” His comments show just how much the moment meant to him, placing it above all the world championships and iconic moments from his legendary career.

The involvement of his sons was a full-circle moment, as they represented two of the most famous eras of his career. Garrett Borden was dressed as “Surfer” Sting from the late 1980s and early 1990s in WCW, while Steven Borden donned the black and red of the nWo Wolfpac version of his character. It was a visual tribute that resonated with multiple generations of wrestling fans.

WWE NXT Preview: High Stakes, Title Matches & Surprises Ahead of No Mercy

Michael Reichlin
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WWE NXT Preview: High Stakes, Title Matches & Surprises Ahead of No Mercy

WWE NXT returns to the Performance Center in Orlando, FL, this Tuesday night at 8 PM ET on CW Network (and streaming on Netflix worldwide), as the brand shifts into high gear on the road to NXT No Mercy.

North American Champion Ethan Page puts his pride on the line in a Flag Match against Tavion Heights, while Tag Team Champions DarkState (Dion Lennox & Osiris Griffin) defend against powerhouses Hank Walker & Tank Ledger in a can’t-miss clash.

The women’s roster spotlights a triple threat elimination match for the next shot at the NXT Women’s Tag Team Titles, with Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley & Jazmyn Nyx), The Culling (Izzi Dame & Tatum Paxley), and Sol Ruca & Zaria battling it out for supremacy. Plus, Faby Apache collides with Lainey Reid in the first round of the Women’s Speed Championship tournament.

Meanwhile, Je’Von Evans and Josh Briggs look to settle their heated rivalry after last week’s wild brawl, and Trick Williams will call out #DIY following their dramatic confrontation.

WWE NXT Announced Matches and Segments:

  • Ethan Page vs. Tavion Heights – Flag Match
  • DarkState (c) vs. Hank & Tank – NXT Tag Team Championship match
  • Fatal Influence vs. The Culling vs. Sol Ruca & Zaria – Women’s Tag Team Title #1 Contenders Elimination Match
  • Faby Apache vs. Lainey Reid – Women’s Speed Championship Tournament First Round Match
  • Je’Von Evans vs. Josh Briggs
  • Trick Williams calls out #DIY

Expect additional appearances and surprises as NXT continues its march toward No Mercy. Don’t miss what promises to be a monumental episode with championship implications and unresolved vendettas coming to a head.

Ronda Rousey Says WWE Did Not Contact Her For Evolution II

Andrew Ravens
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0
Ronda Rousey Says WWE Did Not Contact Her For Evolution II

Former WWE Women’s World Champion Ronda Rousey has revealed that she was not contacted by WWE to be a part of the recent all-women’s Evolution II premium live event. In a new interview, the UFC Hall of Famer, who headlined the inaugural Evolution event in 2018, explained that while the company has an “open door” policy for her, she did not receive an invitation to appear at the historic show in July.

The first-ever Evolution pay-per-view in 2018 was a landmark event for women’s wrestling, and it was main evented by Ronda Rousey defending the Raw Women’s Championship against Nikki Bella. When WWE brought back the all-women’s PLE for a second installment on July 13, 2025, many fans were surprised that Rousey was not in attendance, especially given her role in the first show’s main event. Her former opponent, Nikki Bella, was a part of the show, competing in a 20-woman battle royal.

Speaking with Raj Prashad of Yahoo’s Uncrowned, Rousey was asked about her absence from the event. She confirmed that she was not invited to be a part of the show, but that she left the company on good terms. “I didn’t hear from anybody. It was more of the way we left it was, they were like, ‘There’s always an open door; if you ever want to come back, let us know,’” Rousey said. Her statement clarifies that her absence was not a case of her turning down an offer, but rather that an offer was never made.

Rousey’s final match in WWE took place at the SummerSlam premium live event in August 2023, where she lost an “MMA Rules” match to her real-life friend, Shayna Baszler. While she made a few appearances on the independent circuit and for Ring of Honor after her WWE exit to team with her friend Marina Shafir, she has been away from the ring since then.

In other recent interviews, Rousey has stated that she is “pretty much” retired from professional wrestling. She has cited frustration with the creative process during her WWE run and wanting to focus on her family and her writing career as the primary reasons for her decision to step away from the business.

Ronda Rousey Explains Why She Refused To Tap To Becky Lynch

WWE Raw Preview: AJ Lee Returns, Wrestlepalooza Contract Signing

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Raw Preview: AJ Lee Returns, Wrestlepalooza Contract Signing

WWE Raw heads to Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum tonight for what promises to be a pivotal episode in the road to Wrestlepalooza. The show streams live on Netflix at 8 PM ET, featuring the highly anticipated return of AJ Lee to Monday Night Raw for the first time in over a decade.

Following her memorable SmackDown appearance, AJ Lee is expected to confront Becky Lynch tonight, with speculation mounting about a potential power couples tag team match at Wrestlepalooza featuring AJ Lee and CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins.

The women’s championship picture takes center stage as IYO SKY and Stephanie Vaquer will officially sign their contract for the Women’s World Championship match at Wrestlepalooza. Meanwhile, AJ Styles seeks redemption against El Grande Americano after losing his Intercontinental Title due to interference.

The Usos story continues to evolve as Jimmy and Jey, now reunited after Jimmy’s dramatic save last week, will address their future and ongoing feud with The Vision. The eight-time tag team champions are expected to make a significant announcement regarding their next chapter.

Tonight’s Announced Matches and Segments:

  • AJ Lee returns: Her first Raw appearance in over 10 years, Becky Lynch confrontation expected
  • Contract signing: IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer for Women’s World Championship at Wrestlepalooza
  • AJ Styles vs. El Grande Americano: Styles seeks payback for Intercontinental Title interference
  • Lyra Valkyria vs. Raquel Rodriguez: Valkyria returns to action following SummerSlam
  • The Usos reunion announcement: Jimmy and Jey address their future and The Vision feud

Additional appearances confirmed for Seth Rollins, CM Punk, Rhea Ripley, Penta, and Jey Uso, with more matches likely to be announced throughout the evening as Wrestlepalooza anticipation builds.

NXT Returns to Michigan and Ohio After 5-Year Absence

Michael Reichlin
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NXT Returns to Michigan and Ohio After 5-Year Absence

WWE has announced three NXT live events across Michigan and Ohio, marking the developmental brand’s first return to these markets in over five years. The tour will span three consecutive nights from October 9-11, 2025.

The tour kicks off Thursday, October 9 at KEMBA Live! in Columbus, Ohio, followed by Friday, October 10 at Detroit’s historic Masonic Temple, and concludes Saturday, October 11 at The Agora Theatre in Cleveland.

The events will showcase NXT’s current championship lineup, including NXT Champion Oba Femi, NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne, NXT North American Champion Ethan Page, NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca, and TNA Champion Trick Williams.

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, September 10 at 10am ET through AXS.com. Wrestling fans can access an exclusive presale beginning Tuesday, September 9 at 10am ET using code “WWENXT” on AXS.com, with presale access running until 11:59pm ET the same day.

The announcement represents a significant return for NXT to these Midwest markets, where the brand hasn’t held live events since before 2020.

Injury Fears In AAA After ‘X’ Thrown For Hurt Wrestler

Thomas Lowson
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Injury Fears In AAA After ‘X’ Thrown For Hurt Wrestler

Fans may not be seeing AAA’s Octagon Jr. in the ring any time soon as it appears that the luchador is out with a genuine injury. Octagon Jr. was part of the recent AAA Alianzas, event, where he and Laredo Kid were part of a three-way tag-team match for the AAA Tag Team Championships. Despite a valiant effort, it was Pagano and Psycho Clown who retained the titles in the match that included WWE’s Angel and Berto.

As the champions celebrated, a medical team checked on Octagon Jr. While Laredo Kid checked on his tag team partner, a member of the medical staff through up an ‘X’, signifying that Octagon was dealing with a legitimate injury. Reports from the show add that Octagon was taken out on a stretcher due to a bad fall, in another worrying sign for the masked star.

This is the third wrestler to work as Octagon Jr. and previously worked under the name ‘Golden Magic.’ Like many luchadors, his real identity is not known to the public. He is a former AAA World Trios Champion and a former AAA Latin American Champion.

Octagon Jr. made his WWE debut in June as part oft the Worlds Collide event, and would compete against Dominik Mysterio the next night at Money in the Bank. Now though, his in-ring future remains in question, and we wish him the best in this scary situation.

Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias Reveals Role for WWE x AAA Worlds Collide

Dakota Kai Says Wrestling Return Will Come, Appreciating Break For Now

Thomas Lowson
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0
Dakota Kai Says Wrestling Return Will Come, Appreciating Break For Now

Dakota Kai’s time with WWE came to an end in early 2025, ending the Kiwi Superstar’s second run as part of the promotion. Kai hasn’t competed since being cut from WWE, but she plans on changing that when the time is right.

During a live stream, Kai reflected on her wrestling journey. The former NXT and WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion admitted that she misses being in the ring, though she does like being able to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the wrestling industry.

“I miss wrestling, you guys! I got to get back into it. It’s just one of those things where it has been nice to have a little bit of a break. I have been doing it for a long time. Longer than the last seven years that I was in WWE. You know what I mean? It is nice to take a step back for a while, but I really do miss it.”

Kai’s release came as a surprise to many given that she was a part of Damage CTRL at the time. While the group would continue for a period of time without her, the group has since gone its separate ways. Kai was praised by Damage CTRL sister IYO SKY after her release while Bayley has also praised the work of her former colleague.

Within days of her release, Kai had attracted the attention of AEW, but has yet to make a move to the All-Elite promotion. With her also receiving an invitation to join TNA Wrestling, it seems that Kai won’t be out of work for long when she’s ready to get back in the ring.

Mercedes Moné Backs Female Talent After Latest WWE Releases

Christian Cage On Cope Reunion: AEW Gives Fans What They Want

Thomas Lowson
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0
Christian Cage On Cope Reunion: AEW Gives Fans What They Want

Christian Cage will team with Cope, (aka Adam ‘Edge’ Copeland) at AEW All Out, reuniting one of the most popular and successful tag teams of all time. Speaking to Uncrowned, Cage was well aware that seeing the pair as a team once more is something fans have been wanting for a very long time.

“I think that people have wanted this since [Cope] debuted in AEW, and were maybe hoping it would happen… It’s a big moment for the fans and I think they’re excited about it. I know it means a lot.”

Cope returned to action in 2020 as part of WWE, though his only reunion with Cage would last mere minutes as part of the 2021 Royal Rumble. Now, AEW is ready to give fans a full tag-team match between the two, with the prospect of much more on the horizon.

“The cool thing about AEW in some instances — they’re very much for the pro wrestling fan, and try to give what they want to the fan.”

While Cage and Cope will team at All Out, both still have eyes on the AEW World Championship. Though some fans hope to see this start a fully-fledged reunion of the former WWE Tag Team Champions, there’s no promises from Cage.

“Cope and I agreed to help each other with our issues. Part of the agreement was we’ll get through this, and there’s no promises beyond that.”

AEW All Out will take place on September 20, though earlier in the day to avoid competition with WWE WrestlePalooza. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Cage’s AEW role and whether he and Cope can still co-exist.

Christian Cage: ‘I’m Not Sorry For Dead Father Comments, It’s Allowed Me To Stand Out’

Ronda Rousey Rules Out WWE Return, Wants To Grow Family

Thomas Lowson
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0
Ronda Rousey Rules Out WWE Return, Wants To Grow Family

Ronda Rousey parted ways with WWE in August 2023 and put her friend Shayna Baszler over on her way out at that year’s SummerSlam. Since then, fans have speculated about whether she might return to the company, but that doesn’t appear to be in the cards.

Speaking with Yahoo Sports, Rousey revealed that when she departed, WWE told her the door would always be open for a return. Two years later though, Rousey doesn’t see herself leaving her family at home to be on the road.

“I just don’t think I could ever be on the road with the company again. I have two girls now, and hopefully we can have some more soon, I’d love that. And there’s just no room in my life to be able to maintain that lifestyle and a family at the same time.”

Rousey added that she has no reason to go back, as the only thing that’d win her back would be the prospect of doing more with the Four Horsewomen of MMA. With Shafir, Duke, and Baszler all gone from WWE, Rousey struggles to see herself making a return to a WWE ring.

“I feel like I’ve already accomplished everything that I wanted to in WWE and all that’s really left for me is to go there and have fun with my friends, and none of my friends are there anymore.”

Rousey recently shared that she believes WWE will downplay her legacy, a legacy that includes being one of the first women to headline WrestleMania. Beyond WWE’s biggest show, Rousey was a multi-time Women’s Champion, won the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble, and unified the NXT and WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles in 2023.

Now, Rousey is enjoying life after wrestling. With her family taking priority, and the possibility of more children coming, fans likely have seen the last of her in the ring.

Ronda Rousey Impressing As Screenwriter For Netflix Biopic

Indie Wrestler Jonathan ‘Jaka’ Echevarria Dies After Heart Attack

Thomas Lowson
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0
Indie Wrestler Jonathan ‘Jaka’ Echevarria Dies After Heart Attack

Independent wrestler Jaka (real name Jonathan Echevarria) has died after being hospitalised earlier this month following a heart attack. Beyond Wrestling was the first to share the news, stating “The original Ace. RIP Jaka.”

Jaka was taken to the ICU in critical condition after his heart attack, according to a GoFundMe page created by his family. In their plea for help, they discussed what Jaka was like.

“Jonathan is the kind of person who brings laughter and energy wherever he goes—a fun, lovable pain in the butt who means the world to us. Seeing him in this state has been incredibly difficult, but we are staying strong for him and for each other.”

Jaka’s death has resulted in a wave of condolences online. On X, Mike Santana, who had aligned with Jaka during his time as part of LAX, shared his sadness over Jaka’s death.

Jaka debuted in pro wrestling in 2007 and was a featured part of Beyond Wrestling. His biggest match came in 2018 when he defended the EVOLVE Tag Team Championships during WrestleMania Axxess. He later competed on AEW Dark: Elevation in 2021.

We here at SEScoops would like to extend our condolences to Jaka’s family at this incredibly sad time.


Dwayne Johnson’s The Smashing Machine Wins At Venice Film Festival

Thomas Lowson
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0
Dwayne Johnson’s The Smashing Machine Wins At Venice Film Festival

The Smashing Machine starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson won big at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, ahead of the film’s theatrical release on October 3. At the event in Italy, the film’s director Benny Safdie took home the Silver Lion award for Best Director. Johnson confirmed the news on Instagram, promising his co-worker and friend big hugs and tequila to celebrate.

The film will tell the real-life story of Mark Kerr, a pivotal name in the early days of the UFC, as played by Johnson. The biopic sees Johnson reunite with Jungle Cruise co-star Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s then-wife Dawn Staples.

Safdie’s award is the latest success story for The Smashing Machine. Critics have praised the film with Johnson earning acclaim for proving himself outside of his usual blockbuster schtick. The former WWE World Champion has spoken openly about being typecast in the past and is ready for the world to see a different side to his acting prowess.

While audiences won’t get to see The Smashine Machine until next month, the film is garnering a lot of attention. After the success of The Iron Claw, it remains to be seen if A24 and their team can deliver another home run in the world of combat sports movies.

Dwayne Johnson Sobs At The Smashing Machine 15-Minute Ovation

Latest On AEW’s Pay-Per-View Future On HBO Max

Thomas Lowson
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0
Latest On AEW’s Pay-Per-View Future On HBO Max

AEW pay-per-views are coming to the HBO Max platform, giving fans of the All-Elite promotion a new way to enjoy the show. Starting with AEW All Out on September 20, fans will be able to enjoy the show, and all AEW pay-per-view events going forward, through HBO Max.

AEW’s flagship evvents will be broadcast HDRF10 and Dolby Atmos, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports. The idea is that the shows will be enjoyed with a better picture and sound quality than the event had when live, or has experienced in subsequent replays.

Thsoe who purchase pay-per-views can watch the shows on Max as often as they want through the replay function. The Observer adds that shows can be purchased up to six months after they take place.

AEW All Out will air the same day as WWE WrestlePalooza and the All-Elite event has moved to an earlier timeslot. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on AEW’s growing role with HBO as the promotion’s future will reside on Max.

AEW Expands HBO Max Library with PPV’s from 2019-2024

Ken Anderson On What’s Next After Surprise TNA Wrestling Return

Thomas Lowson
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0
Ken Anderson On What’s Next After Surprise TNA Wrestling Return

Ken Anderson, also known to WWE fans as Mr. Kennedy, stunned fans with his TNA return during the latest TV tapings in Minneapolis. A former TNA World Champion who was with the promotion for years, fans have been left wondering what’s to come for the Green Bay loudmouth.

While speaking on his Mic Check podcast, Anderson was asked about his future in TNA. While some may be excited at the prospect of seeing Ken in TNA more often, that isn’t in the cards, at least for the time being.

“I can’t say anything other than, as far as I’m concerned—and as far as anyone is concerned—it was a one-off. It was an opportunity.“

Anderson’s appearance marked his first time appearing for TNA since 2016. He was introduced by Frankie Kazarian, whose work getting Ken on the show extended beyond introducing him for the cameras.

“Friends of mine like Nic Nemeth, Matt Hardy, Frankie Kazarian, and Tommy Dreamer put in a word and said, ‘Hey, we’re in Ken’s town—maybe we should do something with him.’“

Anderson added that Ross Forman, who runs TNA’s meet and greets, got in touch with him a few weeks ago and had Matt and Jeff Hardy do a guest seminar for Ken’s wrestling academy. Summing up his experience, Anderson shared that it was about a week and a half between Kazarian pitching the idea of a TNA return, to him being part of the show.

Anderson may not be lacing up his boots, but his exciting return to TNA has shown the adage of ‘anything can happen’ in wrestling. Though this was a one-off, fans know not to count out more from the former WWE United States Champion.

Ted DiBiase Recovering After Fall Leaves Him Bruised & Black-Eyed

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Ted DiBiase Recovering After Fall Leaves Him Bruised & Black-Eyed

WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase Sr. is recovering after a fall at an airport left him bloodied and with a black eye. On his “Everybody’s Got A Pod” poddcast, DiBiase shared that he fell when rushing through the airport and tripping over a child that had fallen while playing.

On the pod, DiBiase shared his black eye and added that there’s still plenty of bruising down his right side. DiBiase was grateful to not suffer any broken ribs, an injury that the Million Dollar Man has suffered in the past.

The former WWE World Champion was also grateful for a gate attendant that offered a rag to help clean his bleeding face. Summing up the unfortunate experience, Ted tried to see the funny side of things. Saying that the incident was an “embarrassment,” DiBiase found it ironic that a former wrestler “takes a bump in the Atlanta airport.”

DiBiase is certainly going to be sore for some time, but this situation could have been much worse. Now, the WWE Hall of Famer will need to focus on his recovery, and watching his footing the next time he’s at the airport.

Judge Withdraws From Ted DiBiase Jr. Welfare Fraud Case, Jury Trial Pushed Back

Roxanne Perez: AJ Lee Is Wrestling’s Greatest Return

Thomas Lowson
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Roxanne Perez: AJ Lee Is Wrestling’s Greatest Return

AJ Lee is finally back in WWE over a decade after parting ways with the promotion in 2015. Fans and Superstars alike to see the three-time former Divas Champion back in the promotion, and perhaps none are more excited than Roxanne Perez.

On X, a post claimed that Lee’s return during the September 5, episode of WWE SmackDown marked the greatest return in the history of women’s wrestling. This caught the attention of Perez, who argued that Lee’s return is the best return period, regardless of sex.

It’s hardly a surprise that Perez is excited by Lee’s return. The Prodigy has often heralded AJ as an inspiration for her own wrestling career. Perez has even said that she can’t retire until she gets a match with AJ Lee, a match that is now a genuine possibility. During her youth, Roxanne would show her support for Lee at events and dress as AJ for Halloween, as seen in the images below.

Perez and Lee have yet to interact on WWE TV, but with AJ expected at the upcoming Raw, their interaction may be mere days away. As fans eagerly await what’s next for AJ Lee, Roxanne Perez is grateful to have been able to witness what she considers the greatest wrestling return of all time.

AJ Lee’s WWE Legacy: Career Highlights & Wrestling Impact

AJPW’s Taishin Nagao Dead Age 21 After Being Hit By Bus

Thomas Lowson
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AJPW’s Taishin Nagao Dead Age 21 After Being Hit By Bus

AJPW’s Taishin Nagao has passed away at the tragically young age of 21 after being struck by a tour bus earlier this year. All-Japan confirmed the sad news in a statement, sharing that Nagao was hit by a tour bus on May 31. The incident resulted in “traumatic shock due to abdominal compression” and he was treated in an intensive care unit. Unfortunately, Nagao passed on September 7, at the hospital he was admitted to.

An investigation is underway with police involvement. All-Japan expressed their gratitude to all those who have shown support and encouragement for Nagao. Condolences were also offered to those affected by the death of the late wrestler.

Nagao began his wrestling training in December 2023 and made his in-ring debut in October 2024 in a loss to Ryo Inoue. We at SEScoops would like to share our deepest condolences to those affected by his death at this incredible sad time.

WWE Main Roster Stars Stack NXT Spartanburg Live Event

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Main Roster Stars Stack NXT Spartanburg Live Event

A recent NXT live event in South Carolina certainly gave fans their money’s worth as several main-roster talents returned to the silver brand for the show. The September 6, 2025, event took place from Spartanburg, SC and kicked off with South Carolina’s own TNA World Champion Trick Williams beating Shiloh Hill.

With the opening match firing up the crowd, it was time for the main roster stars to make their return. Roxanne Perez and Raquel Rodriguez were in tag team action, as were American Made. Rusev returned to WWE NXT for the first time since 2013 while the LWO were in action for the NXT Tag Team Gold. Dragon Lee was also in a championship match while Maxxine Dupri was part of a six-woman tag match. In the main event, NXT Champion Oba Femi put the gold on the line against Raw’s Grayson Waller.

The results for the full show are as follows:

  • Trick Willams beat Shiloh Hill.
  • Roxanne Perez and Raquel Rodriguez beat Sol Ruca and Zaria
  • American Made: Julius and Brutus Creed / Ivy Nile beat The Culling: Shawn Spears / Niko Vance / Izzi Dame (with Tatum Paxley)
  • Ricky Saints beat Rusev
  • The Dark State: Dion Lennox and Osiris Griffin (c) (with Cutler James and Saquon Shugars) beat The LWO: Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro and Hank Walker and Tank Ledger (NXT Tag Team Championships)
  • Dragon Lee beat Ethan Page (c) by DQ (NXT North American Championship, Page retains)
  • Fatal Influence: NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne / Fallon Henley / Jazmyn Nyx beat Kelani Jordan / Lash Legend / Maxxine Dupri
  • Oba Femi (c) beat Grayson Waller (WWE NXT Championship)

This stacked show highlighted WWE NXT both past and present, showing the capabilities of the silver brand. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from WWE NXT.

Trick Williams Teases Backup After #DIY Attack on WWE NXT

Mercedes Moné Eyes NJPW & STARDOM Gold For Belt Collection

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Mercedes Moné Eyes NJPW & STARDOM Gold For Belt Collection

Mercedes Moné already holds nine championship titles in wrestling, but The CEO of AEW is always on the hunt for more. Recently, it was confirmed that STARDOM’S Saya Kamitani and AZM will battle in Korakuen Hall on September 27. This match will see the winner take home the World of STARDOM Championship (held by Kamitani) and the NJPW Strong Women’s Title (held by AZM.)

Moné would react in a post on X with a simple eyeballs emoji. While she didn’t say any words, the CEO’s message was clear: She has eyes on both belts.

Moné has yet to hold gold for STARDOM but is a former NJPW Strong Women’s Champion. The CEO held the gold earlier this year and lost the title to AZM in a triple-threat match which included Mina Shirakawa.

Moné is on the hunt for her tenth and eleventh championship title in wrestling. With Mercedes’ efforts for gold already taking her worldwide, it may be just a matter before fans see her competing for some of the top titles in Japan.

Nyla Rose Wins Gold, Blocks Mercedes Moné to Avoid Defense
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