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NXT Star ‘Shoots His Shot’ With Bayley After On-Screen Breakup

Michael Reichlin
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NXT Star ‘Shoots His Shot’ With Bayley After On-Screen Breakup

Ashante is already teasing his next move following the end of his on-screen relationship with Karmen Petrovic on WWE NXT.

During this week’s episode, Petrovic suffered a non-title loss to NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca. In a surprising turn, she lashed out at Ashante post-match with a kick, signaling the abrupt end of their storyline.

Shortly after the segment aired, Ashante took to social media to address Bayley, referencing her recent comments during an interview with Chris Van Vliet. Bayley had expressed a willingness to take on any role WWE presents to her, including romantic storylines.

“Hey @itsBayleyWWE, I heard you are looking for romance,” Ashante wrote on X, hinting at a potential new angle.

Bayley has not publicly responded to the message. With Ashante already moving in a new direction, attention now turns to how Petrovic may react in the weeks ahead.

Before the Idol Killer Strikes: What to Know About Thekla

Michael Reichlin
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Before the Idol Killer Strikes: What to Know About Thekla

Fresh off a highly successful stint in Japan, Austrian sensation Thekla is poised to spin her web stateside – drawing serious interest from WWE, AEW, and other leading promotions. Before the “Toxic Spider” makes her North American debut, here are a few key things every fan should know about one of the most intriguing gaijin to emerge from the Joshi scene in years:

Toxic Spider

Thekla is an Austrian wrestler known for her aggressive, acrobatic style and “Toxic Spider” persona, making her a standout gaijin (foreigner) in Japan’s top women’s promotions. She is recognized for her unique look and in-ring psychology, often playing a villainous “idol killer” character that contrasts with the typical “idol” image of Japanese women’s wrestling.

Accolades

She is a decorated former champion in Japan, having held the Goddesses of Stardom and Artist of Stardom titles in World Wonder Ring Stardom, and the Triangle Ribbon Championship in Ice Ribbon. Thekla was a core member of the Donna del Mondo (DDM) stable alongside Giulia, a name familiar to American fans through her own rising international profile. Thekla and Giulia, as part of the “Baribari Bombers,” were ranked among PWI’s top 100 tag teams in 2023.

What’s Next

Thekla is reportedly drawing interest from both WWE and AEW after finishing her run in Japan, setting the stage for a high-profile debut in the U.S. She has worked with and against top names from the Japanese scene, including Giulia, Suzu Suzuki, and Mayu Iwatani, and is known for her adaptability and strong presence in both singles and tag competition-qualities that could make her a breakout star in American promotions.

With championship pedigree, a distinctive villainous edge, and the versatility to thrive in singles or tag competition, Thekla arrives on U.S. soil as far more than a curiosity—she’s a breakout star in waiting. Whether she lands in WWE, AEW, or elsewhere, expect the “idol killer” to inject fresh venom into the women’s division and capture global attention the moment the bell rings.

Hulk Hogan Teases Donald Trump Appearance at Real American Wrestling’s Inaugural Event

Michael Reichlin
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Hulk Hogan Teases Donald Trump Appearance at Real American Wrestling’s Inaugural Event

Hulk Hogan’s new freestyle wrestling league is already generating buzz—but now there’s a political twist. In a recent interview, Hogan hinted that none other than former President Donald Trump may appear at the league’s debut event in Cleveland on August 30.

“We were way ahead of the game… but to see our president step up and be involved, I said, I think I know who’s going to be at our August 30th event in Cleveland,” Hogan said. “I might know somebody. I’d say so. The big man himself.”

Hogan and Trump have a longstanding relationship, dating back to their shared ties with WWE and appearances at WrestleMania. Trump recently drew headlines for attending the NCAA Wrestling Championships, a moment Hogan says “definitely factored in” to the timing and positioning of his new league.

The comment adds a new layer of intrigue to Hogan’s Real American Wrestling launch, which has already positioned itself as a disruptor by offering elite amateur wrestlers paid opportunities outside traditional promotions.

While no official confirmation has been made, Hogan’s playful yet pointed comments suggest fans and media should expect more than just athletic fireworks when the league makes its debut.

What to Watch: Will Trump’s presence turn the launch into a political spectacle? All eyes are now on Cleveland, August 30.

More Details About Real American Freestyle Wrestling

Thekla Exits Stardom, Teases U.S. Move Amid AEW and WWE Interest

Michael Reichlin
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Thekla Exits Stardom, Teases U.S. Move Amid AEW and WWE Interest

Thekla has concluded her time with Stardom, ending a three-year tenure with the Japanese promotion as she prepares for the next chapter in her wrestling career. Thekla’s contract with Stardom has expired, and her planned relocation to the United States is now underway.

Her free-agent status has already attracted strong attention from major companies, with both AEW and WWE monitoring her closely. Sources indicated that WWE had taken interest in Thekla during the period surrounding Giulia’s signing, while AEW’s interest intensified toward the end of 2024.

Independent promotions have also reached out regarding bookings. However, Fightful reports that sources within AEW believe Thekla is expected to join their company—marking AEW as her likely next destination.

Thekla’s Next Chapter

Thekla has been keeping fans apprised of her status on social media. Most recently, she posted a photo on Thursday of herself holding her passport with the caption, “Off to new lands.”

With her Stardom chapter officially closed and a move to the U.S. confirmed, Thekla is poised to make an impact in WWE, AEW, or other top US-based promotions very soon.

Before the Idol Killer Strikes: What to Know About Thekla

TNA Impact Preview: Special Start Time, Live from Irvine, CA

Michael Reichlin
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TNA Impact Preview: Special Start Time, Live from Irvine, CA

Show Details & How to Watch

  • Live from Bren Events Center, Irvine, California
  • Special start time: 10/9c on AXS TV (US), Sportsnet+ (Canada), TNA+ (worldwide)

Featured Matches & Segments

  • Six-Man Tag Team Main Event:
    TNA World Champion Joe Hendry teams with The Hardys (Matt & Jeff Hardy) to face the new TNA World Tag Team Champions, The Nemeths (Nic & Ryan Nemeth), and Frankie Kazarian. This follows the Nemeths stealing the tag titles at Rebellion, promising high-stakes chaos.
  • Indi Hartwell Speaks:
    After her shocking debut at Rebellion, the newest Knockout, Indi Hartwell, addresses the TNA audience for the first time.
  • X-Division Title Match:
    Zachary Wentz, who pinned Moose in six-man action at Rebellion, challenges Moose for the X-Division Championship. Will Wentz capitalize on his momentum or will Moose retain?
  • Singles Match:
    KC Navarro (with AJ Francis) battles Leon Slater in a one-on-one bout after both impressed in the Ultimate X match. This is expected to be a show-stealer.
  • Mike Santana in Action:
    Fresh off a brutal Falls Count Anywhere victory over Mustafa Ali, Mike Santana returns to the ring. His opponent has not been announced.
  • Steve Maclin Speaks:
    Still International Champion after surviving Eric Young and an attack by the Northern Armory, Steve Maclin will address the TNA audience live.
  • Jody Threat vs. Maggie Lee:
    Jody Threat seeks redemption against Maggie Lee, the Elegance brand’s newest weapon, after choosing honor over brutality at Rebellion.

Tune in for the fallout from Rebellion and several high-stakes matches and segments, all live at a special time.

TNA Rebellion 2025 Fallout

  • Joe Hendry retained the TNA World Championship in a triple threat match but was attacked post-match by Trick Williams, setting up a new rivalry.
  • The Nemeth Brothers (Nic & Ryan Nemeth) defeated The Hardys to become new TNA World Tag Team Champions, using underhanded tactics to secure the win.
  • Moose retained the X-Division Championship in an Ultimate X match, overcoming multiple challengers in a chaotic bout.
  • Steve Maclin successfully defended the International Championship against Eric Young, but was attacked and left laying by The Armory after the match.
  • Indi Hartwell made her debut as the newest Knockout, officially joining the TNA Knockouts division and promising to shake up the women’s roster.

WWE Star Dakota Kai Reveals New Natural Look

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Star Dakota Kai Reveals New Natural Look

Dakota Kai has revealed a striking new hairstyle while remaining away from in-ring action. Known for frequently changing her look, the WWE Raw star showcased her natural curls in a recent Instagram post, departing from her usual straightened styles.

Opening up about her hair transformation, Kai shared that she previously damaged her hair through years of straightening and bleaching, which led her to cut it down to an inch in 2020. She admitted to struggling with her natural texture due to teasing and lack of care knowledge growing up.

“Surprise haha,” Kai wrote. “In 2020, I had to cut all my natural hair to an inch. I had been straightening and bleaching the s**t out of my hair since high school and it took its toll. I never loved my curly hair because I didn’t know how to look after it and I got teased for it growing up.”

She credited Kendra Simmons of Her Hand Styles for helping restore her hair’s health, adding, “@herhandstyles played the biggest part of helping it get healthy. I love her sm for that and I’m learning to love my hair too.”

Kai last competed on the March 24 WWE Main Event taping, which aired March 27, where she scored a win over Ivy Nile. Her most recent Raw appearance also featured a victory against Nile on the March 17 episode.

Injured AEW Star Back In Action After 8 Months On Dynamite

Anutosh Bajpai
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Injured AEW Star Back In Action After 8 Months On Dynamite

An AEW star has returned to the ring after long hiatus.

This week’s episode of AEW Dynamite saw the new Trios Champions Samoa Joe, Katsuyori Shibata, & Powerhouse Hobbs competing in a six-man tag match. Their opponents were Rhett Titus & Myles Hawkins, and a returning Nick Comoroto.

Comoroto had been out of action since last August. The 34-year-old had announced back then that he was undergoing hip resurfacing surgery, revealing that he had been wrestling on one leg for almost two years.

The returning star ended up losing the match however, after Powerhouse Hobbs pinned Myles Hawkins with a spinebuster for the win.

Trained by Q. T. Marshall and Dustin Rhodes, Nick Comoroto made his wrestling debut in 2013. He had a short WWE run in 2019 after being signed to a development contract, but Comoroto ended up being one of the names released during the early 2020 pandemic budget cuts.

The wrestling star then made his AEW debut later that year, mostly appearing on Dark the next couple of years. Nick made his ROH debut in 2023 and had been a regular for the promotion before his injury.

The Death Riders showed up after Comoroto’s match tonight to attack the Trios Champions. This attack led to a stipulation being announced for the upcoming Samoa Joe vs. Jon Moxley title match which you can check out here.

Stipulation Added To Samoa Joe vs. Jon Moxley Spring Break Title Match

Anutosh Bajpai
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Stipulation Added To Samoa Joe vs. Jon Moxley Spring Break Title Match

A stipulation has been added to the upcoming match between Jon Moxley and Samoa Joe for the AEW World Heavyweight Championship.

The April 30 episode of Dynamite featured the Trio Champions Joe, Katsuyori Shibata, & ‘Powerhouse’ Will Hobbs facing the team of Myles Hawkins, Nick Comoroto, & Rhett Titus in a tag match.

The Death Riders hit the ring after Hobbs won the match for his team. The group led by Mox targeted Shibata, taking him out with a slam on an upturned chair. The faction then quickly retreated out of sight.

Samoa Joe picked up the mic to address Mox after this, calling him a ‘little bitch.’ The Samoan Submission Machine discussed how Moxley always brings his goon squad with him and said that he wants their title match to be inside the steel cage.

The AEW Champion didn’t reply to Joe, but the company made the stipulation official with a graphic on X after the show went off air.

The World title match is the only bout confirmed for the upcoming Dynamite special so far, taking place on May 15 from Now Arena in Chicago.

Apart from this, tonight’s episode also featured the last semi-final for the ongoing Owen Hart Cup tournament. You can check out the result of the match here.

Men’s Owen Hart Cup Finals Confirmed On Dynamite

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Men’s Owen Hart Cup Finals Confirmed On Dynamite

The second Owen Hart Cup final is now set.

The April 30 episode of Dynamite featured the second semifinals of the ongoing tournament on the men’s side, with Hangman Adam Page and Kyle Fletcher going at it in the main event of the show.

The ending of this match saw Fletcher getting a couple of near-falls. Hangman Page then got the upper hand, delivering a moonsault on the outside. Page got Fletcher back into the ring and got ready for the Buckshot Lariat.

Fletcher, however, shoved the referee at the last second and countered Hangman with a kick between the legs. Kyle went for the pin after a brainbuster, but Page somehow still kicked out.

Kyle Fletcher then got the former AEW Champion up on the turnbuckle, aiming for another brainbuster, but Page shoved him down and delivered a Lariat from the top of the corner. Adam Page managed to deliver the Buckshot Lariat from his usual spot at the apron and finally got the pin.

Will Ospreay already made his way into the finals of the tournament by defeating Konosuke Takeshita at the April 16 episode of Dynamite.

Jamie Hayter meanwhile earned the spot in the finals on the women’s side last week. She is now set to face Mercedes Mone with both the finals set for Double or Nothing on May 25.

AEW Dynamite Results & Fallout – April 30, 2025

Michael Reichlin
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AEW Dynamite Results & Fallout – April 30, 2025

Steel Cage World-Title Match Headlines Beach Break

Moments after the Death Riders ambushed reigning Trios Champions The Opps, Samoa Joe strode onto the stage and challenged AEW World Champion Jon Moxley to defend the title inside a steel cage at Beach Break on May 14 in Chicago. Moxley—still seething from the post-match brawl—accepted immediately. The bout will be the first singles meeting between the two since Moxley captured the championship.

Owen Hart Cup Finals Finalized for Double or Nothing

Both tournament brackets reached their conclusions tonight, completing the card for the annual Owen Hart Cup Finals at Double or Nothing on May 25:

  • Men’s Final – “Hangman” Adam Page vs. Will Ospreay
  • Page punched his ticket by defeating Kyle Fletcher with the Buckshot Lariat, setting up a first-ever singles showdown with Ospreay.
  • Women’s Final – Mercedes Moné vs. Jamie Hayter
  • Although the bracket wrapped last week, Mercedes Moné’s post-match confrontation with Women’s World Champion Toni Storm and Hayter’s surprise assault on Moné reignited hostilities. Commentary confirmed the winner will earn a future championship opportunity.

Women’s Division Turmoil

Toni Storm survived a stiff non-title test from Japan’s Miyu Yamashita, but her celebration was cut short when Mercedes Moné confronted her in the aisle. Before Moné could issue a formal challenge, Jamie Hayter blindsided the CEO, turning the title picture into a three-way collision course. Storm now faces Hayter’s ally Lady Frost in an eliminator match this Saturday on Collision—a bout AEW officials note could vault Frost into title contention.

The Hurt Syndicate’s Ultimatum to MJF

In a tense backstage segment, Bobby Lashley informed MJF that his long-teased entry into The Hurt Syndicate hinges on a “trial by fire” next week. MJF must “prove himself in blood” on the May 7 Dynamite; failure means the invitation is off the table. The opponent—and stipulation—will be revealed live.

Other Key Results & Angles

  • All-Star Eight-Man Tag: Kazuchika Okada and the Young Bucks joined Ricochet to defeat Kenny Omega, Leon Slater, Mike Bailey and Mark Briscoe. Okada stole the pin on Briscoe, then locked eyes with Omega—a clear signal that their rivalry is far from over.
  • ROH World Television Championship: Nick Wayne retained against Jay Lethal after a hard-fought House Call, marking his first successful defense since capturing the belt.
  • The Opps vs. Titus/Comoroto/Hawkins: The champions rolled, but were attacked post-match by the Death Riders, escalating the factions’ bad blood.

Newly Announced Matches

AEW Collision – Saturday, May 3

  • Toni Storm (non-title) vs. Lady Frost – Women’s World Title Eliminator
  • Brody King vs. Josh Alexander – First-time ever singles encounter

AEW Dynamite – Wednesday, May 7

  • MJF’s Hurt Syndicate “trial by fire” (opponent TBA)

Beach Break – Tuesday, May 14

  • Jon Moxley (c) vs. Samoa Joe – AEW World Championship, Steel Cage

Double or Nothing – Sunday, May 25

  • Owen Hart Cup Men’s Final: “Hangman” Adam Page vs. Will Ospreay
  • Owen Hart Cup Women’s Final: Mercedes Moné vs. Jamie Hayter
  • Women’s World Title Match – Date and challenger to be determined following the Owen Hart Final and Toni Storm’s eliminator bouts

Looking Ahead

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With the World Title now locked inside a cage and both Owen Hart Cup finals set in stone, AEW’s route to Double or Nothing suddenly looks crystal clear—but hardly calm. Next week will reveal whether MJF can survive the Hurt Syndicate’s gauntlet and whether Toni Storm can navigate a division coming at her from two directions. One thing is certain after tonight’s fireworks in Norfolk: May is going to be a brutal, unmissable month on the road to Las Vegas.????????????????

Liv Morgan’s Big Hollywood Movie Role Revealed

Andrew Ravens
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Liv Morgan’s Big Hollywood Movie Role Revealed

WWE Superstar Liv Morgan is set for another acting role, joining the cast of Neon Pictures’ upcoming film, “Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo.” Deadline first reported the news about Morgan’s involvement in the project.

Acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Takeshi Miike will direct the movie and also stars Lily James, known for “Baby Driver” and “Pam & Tommy.” Early plot details reveal the story follows a corrupt Tokyo police officer (Shun Oguri) caught in a high-stakes case. James portrays an FBI agent investigating the disappearance of a politician’s daughter, played by Morgan, while a sinister yakuza-connected killer looms over their investigation.

Production for the thriller is expected to begin in Japan within the next week. Neon Pictures, the distributor behind the recent Best Picture Oscar winner “Anora,” is backing the film, signaling significant expectations. This role represents a major step for Morgan into the film industry, after reports suggest the official announcement might be planned for next week.

Morgan has already made notable appearances in both television and film. She played herself in a 2022 episode of the “Chucky” television series, where the title character famously killed her. Additionally, she took on the role of Emma in the 2023 dark comedy thriller film “The Kill Room,” sharing screen time with Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, and Joe Manganiello.

AEW All In: Texas Title Match Plans Remain Under Wraps

Andrew Ravens
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AEW All In: Texas Title Match Plans Remain Under Wraps

Fightful Select has an on update AEW All In: Texas 2025, scheduled for this July. A key match planned for the event features the reigning AEW World Champion defending against the Owen Hart Foundation Cup tournament winner. 

Currently, Jon Moxley holds the AEW World Championship. The finals of the men’s Owen Hart Cup tournament are set for AEW Double or Nothing 2025, where Will Ospreay will compete against the winner of the Hangman Page vs. Kyle Fletcher match.

According to the Fightful report, AEW is keeping the identity of the eventual tournament winner, who will challenge for the title at All In, highly confidential. This secrecy also extends to the planned main event for the Texas show. Sources suggest details surrounding the challenger and the main event matchup are closely guarded secrets.

It’s currently unclear if this tight-lipped approach is because AEW officials are still finalizing creative decisions for the significant event or if the primary goal is to prevent spoilers from leaking beforehand.

AEW’s next pay-per-view event, AEW Double or Nothing 2025, is scheduled for Sunday, May 25th, starting at 7:00 PM CDT, live from the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

AEW Moves All In Texas Start Time to Avoid WWE Conflict

Steve Austin On WWE Without Vince McMahon: That Era Is Gone And New One Has Begun

Andrew Ravens
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Steve Austin On WWE Without Vince McMahon: That Era Is Gone And New One Has Begun

Stone Cold Steve Austin shared his thoughts on Vince McMahon’s no longer being affiliated with WWE. During a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, he recounted a past conversation in which he questioned McMahon’s desire to take the company public.

Asked if he ever thought he’d see a time when McMahon wasn’t associated with WWE while still alive, Austin acknowledged the shift.

“It seems weird, but I mean, only for a minute, because, you know, when they sold the company to TKO or whatever the deal is, you know, it was like, okay, it was kind of like the end of an era, and now that we’ve taken a breath, okay, we digested that the era’s over, and it is what it is,” Austin said.

He then recalled advising McMahon against taking WWE public many years ago, puzzled by the chairman’s reasoning.

“So I remember talking to Vince 100 years ago when he wanted to take the company public. And I told him, I said, dude… I said, why do you want to go public? He goes, Steve, [to] be more legitimate. I was like, man, what the hell? be more legitimate? He owned the whole damn thing, you know, it was worth a shit ton of money, you know, how much do you want? So I never understood to begin with, you know.”

Despite past disagreements, Austin spoke positively about his time working under McMahon and for WWE.

“And I love working with Vince… and I’ve had a tremendous time working with WWE, and we haven’t always seen eye to eye on everything, but, you know, and I gave him all my blood, sweat and tears, and they gave me a bunch of opportunities to go out there… We had a great time together.”

Austin ended by noting the change in leadership and the company’s current positive trajectory.

“But you know that era is gone and a new one has… begun, and it’s taken off, and it’s seemed like it’s going good.”

Logan Paul Rejects ‘YouTuber’ Label, Eyes the WWE Championship

Michael Reichlin
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Logan Paul Rejects ‘YouTuber’ Label, Eyes the WWE Championship

Logan Paul joined the Raw Recap podcast directly from his private jet, fresh off his backstage attack on World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso. The social media star turned WWE Superstar made it clear he’s moved beyond his digital content origins and is fully committed to wrestling success.

Cutting the YouTuber Narrative in Half

When addressing Jey Uso’s “punk ass YouTuber” comments from Monday Night Raw, Paul didn’t hold back:

“Yeah, he’s mistaken. I don’t blame him. He’s just a headline hunter. I’m not a YouTuber anymore. And I’m cutting that narrative in half right now. That’s not the case. And I prove that every time I wrestle. When I’m in there, if I’m a YouTuber, why am I looking better than my peers who do this full time, who’ve done this 15 years?”

Paul pointed to his match with Roman Reigns – just his third WWE contest – as evidence of his natural wrestling ability.

Despite taking an unconventional path to WWE, Paul believes his performances speak for themselves and deserve respect from both fans and locker room veterans.

Championship Aspirations

Paul made no secret of his championship ambitions, stating the World Heavyweight Championship is just one of many titles he feels he should possess:

“For sure. And that’s, by the way, one of the many titles I think I should be holding. If they were up to me, I’d be holding all of them. I think when it comes to box office, views, capability, everything, I’m the full package. Anyone who denies that is just oblivious.”

The controversial Superstar has clearly set his sights on Jey Uso’s recently-won championship, seemingly unbothered by the traditional path most wrestlers take to reach title contention.

Is Logan Paul The Challenger Jey Uso Needs As WWE World Heavyweight Champion?

Big E Breaks Down Gunther vs Pat McAfee, Logan Paul vs Jey Uso

Michael Reichlin
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Big E Breaks Down Gunther vs Pat McAfee, Logan Paul vs Jey Uso

During his appearance on Raw Recap, Big E provided expert analysis on two significant matchups taking shape in WWE – Pat McAfee vs. Gunther at Backlash and the brewing conflict between Logan Paul and World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso.

Gunther’s Dangerous Potential

Big E expressed genuine concern for commentator Pat McAfee as he prepares to face the recently dethroned Gunther at WWE Backlash:

“Of all the guys that I’ve seen since I have been out that I have watched come up on the main roster that I thought were real forces that I imagine myself in the ring with. Gunther is gonna put it on you, Gunther is gonna, if you end up winning that match, you are going to leave hurting. I am worried about Pat, I think his family should be worried about Pat.”

The former champion noted that Gunther’s frustration after losing his title makes him particularly dangerous, comparing him to old-school wrestlers who would return from injuries still in casts just to seek revenge.

Logan Paul’s Legitimate Threat

Despite his unconventional background, Big E acknowledged Logan Paul represents a genuine threat to Jey Uso’s championship:

“He’s a guy who is obviously very athletically gifted. He’s someone that so many of us don’t wanna root for, we don’t wanna see him do well. But then he goes out there and he beats AJ Styles and he goes out there and he has incredible matches with Roman Reigns, with so many people on the roster, the dude is very talented.”

Big E noted that just three weeks into Jey’s hard-earned championship reign, he’s already facing an opponent who has demonstrated the ability to compete with top WWE talent. The former champion cautioned that regardless of how fans feel about Paul personally, his capabilities in the ring make him a legitimate championship contender.

Steve Austin Explains What Went Wrong With His WrestleMania 41 ATV Mishap

Michael Reichlin
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Steve Austin Explains What Went Wrong With His WrestleMania 41 ATV Mishap

When the glass shattered at WrestleMania 41 Night 2, fans expected “Stone Cold” Steve Austin to roar down the aisle on his trademark ATV, raise a few fists (and a few beers), and deliver the evening’s attendance figure. Instead, the WWE Hall of Famer gave Las Vegas a moment he’d rather forget: on his second lap around the ring, Austin clipped the ringside barricade, sending both himself and a front-row fan sprawling.

What Went Wrong?

Chatting with Ariel Helwani on The Ariel Helwani Show today, April 30, 2025, Austin explained that the stunt vehicle wasn’t the familiar rig he’s been tearing up arenas with since the Attitude Era.

“Different throttle set-up than what I’m used to. Long story short, just a different throttle system. I’m pretty dang handy on a four-wheeler,” he laughed.

Seconds later, his confidence overruled the new controls—and the barricade won. WWE President Nick Khan rushed over to check on the startled fan, while Austin—ever the pro—made sure the attendee was okay before climbing between the ropes to handle his duties. After the segment, the Texas Rattlesnake circled back a second time to apologize in person.

The Rattlesnake’s Reaction

Despite everyone walking away unscathed, Austin admits the mishap stung more than a Stunner gone wrong:

“I was embarrassed by it. You go out there on the biggest night in wrestling and you end up like that—it’s not the greatest day at the office. You want to give people the best show you can, and when you fall short of that, it’s not great.”

A Hall of Fame Weekend—With a Bump

The ATV snafu came just 24 hours after Austin and Bret Hart jointly received WrestleMania’s inaugural “Immortal Moment” Hall of Fame honor for their legendary WrestleMania 13 bout. One embarrassing spill won’t tarnish that legacy, but it did remind the six-time WWE Champion that even icons can hit the brakes—literally—on the grandest stage.

Bottom Line

Accident or not, Austin still delivered his signature swagger (and the attendance number) to 60,000-plus fans in Allegiant Stadium. As for the unlucky speed bump in the front row? They’ve now got a once-in-a-lifetime tale to tell—and maybe a souvenir handshake from the toughest SOB in the business.

Steve Austin On John Cena’s Heel Run: ‘It’s Warranted And Deserved’

John Cena vs. Randy Orton at Backlash: Officially Billed as Their Final Showdown

Thomas Lowson
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John Cena vs. Randy Orton at Backlash: Officially Billed as Their Final Showdown

Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena will face Randy Orton at Backlash on May 10 in what WWE is now promoting as the final encounter between these two legendary competitors. According to recent promotional materials, this will be the “last time” fans witness these megastars compete one-on-one—a significant declaration that was notably absent from earlier marketing.

As Cena progresses toward his scheduled retirement at the end of 2025, this match represents one of several career milestones fans can anticipate from the WWE icon. He has already participated in his final Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber matches, while triumphantly concluding his WrestleMania legacy with a victory in his farewell appearance.

Randy Orton Vs. John Cena
Image credit: WWE

Throughout their storied rivalry, Cena and Orton have clashed 21 times on WWE programming across various stipulations, including Hell in a Cell, TLC, and an “I Quit” match. Cena currently dominates the series with a 13-7-1 record and has prevailed in their four most recent encounters, dating back to their last confrontation on WWE SmackDown in 2017.

In his controversial championship run, John Cena has boldly declared his intention to “ruin wrestling” by retiring with the WWE Championship, effectively removing 62 years of prestigious title lineage. Should he succeed, his departure would necessitate WWE creating an entirely new championship—one that Cena has dismissively characterized as a mere “toy” lacking both legacy and prestige.

WWE Backlash will stream live on Peacock in the United States and on Netflix for international viewers, broadcasting from St. Louis at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

Zelina Vega Basks In Response to Title Win, Names First Challenger

Thomas Lowson
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Zelina Vega Basks In Response to Title Win, Names First Challenger

Zelina Vega captured the WWE Women’s United States Championship on SmackDown by defeating Chelsea Green, becoming only the second woman ever to hold the prestigious title. The new champion has already demonstrated her commitment to being an active titleholder, revealing her first potential challenger in a recent interview.

Rather than simply celebrating her victory on the blue brand, Vega is already looking ahead to competition—specifically eyeing her close friend Dakota Kai from RAW as her inaugural challenger.

“I would love to give her the first shot… Dakota Kai gets first shot. I would love that. She has become like a sister to me.”

Their bond extends beyond the wrestling ring, as the duo co-hosts a popular weekly podcast embraced by fans of both Superstars. Now, Vega is eager to offer her friend an opportunity to showcase her talents in competition, with championship gold potentially at stake.

This championship victory represents Vega’s first singles title in WWE—an achievement fans have long anticipated. Reflecting on the audience’s reaction to her triumphant moment, the Women’s U.S. Champion shared her experience with evident enthusiasm.

“You started to feel that energy building and once the pin came shortly after, it was just like, it blew the roof off. It was so crazy.”

Vega was overwhelmed not just by her championship win, but by the passionate response from the WWE Universe. After enduring a lengthy title drought and a prolonged period without significant victories, she had concerns that “fans had given up on me.”

As she begins her reign, Zelina Vega is clearly focused on establishing herself as a worthy champion. Rather than waiting for management to assign her next opponent, she’s proactively seeking competition against someone she genuinely respects.

Zelina Vega On WWE Women’s U.S. Title Win: ‘It Doesn’t Feel Real’

Backstage Response to Zelina Vega’s WWE Women’s U.S. Title Win

Thomas Lowson
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Backstage Response to Zelina Vega’s WWE Women’s U.S. Title Win

Zelina Vega is the new Women’s United States Champion after dethroning Chelsea Green during the April 25 edition of WWE SmackDown. This victory marks not only a significant milestone for Vega herself but also created a genuine surprise for those watching backstage.

According to PW Insider, WWE personnel were legitimately caught off guard when Vega captured the championship from Green. Most talent watching from behind the curtain had no indication the title would change hands until the referee’s hand struck the mat for the decisive three-count.

One particularly interested observer of Vega’s triumph was her husband, Aleister Black, who made his own dramatic return to WWE during the same episode of SmackDown. With Black’s spectacular comeback and assault on The Miz, coupled with Vega’s championship victory, this episode certainly delivered a memorable night for the couple.

The focus now shifts to Vega’s championship reign. Will she establish herself with a substantial title run, or will the challenges of being a singles champion prove overwhelming? Only time will tell…

Zelina Vega On WWE Women’s U.S. Title Win: ‘It Doesn’t Feel Real’

Steve Austin On John Cena’s Heel Run: ‘It’s Warranted And Deserved’

Andrew Ravens
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Steve Austin On John Cena’s Heel Run: ‘It’s Warranted And Deserved’

Steve Austin revisited one of the most debated moments of his career, his WWE WrestleMania 17 heel turn, and offered his perspective on why he believes John Cena won’t share similar regrets about his own recent turn to the dark side.

Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Austin confirmed his long-held feelings about the 2001 decision.Austin wished he hadn’t turned heel by aligning with Vince McMahon to defeat The Rock.

“Yeah, man, if I could go back in a time machine, I would have told Vince, ‘Hey, man, we used him. He helped me interfere, beat the hell out of Rock with that chair’,” Austin recalled. “It was very physical… I’d have called that audible, and I told Vince, after it’s all said and done, ‘watch a stunner.’ I’d have dropped him on that stack of dimes he called a neck. And I would have stayed a baby face.”

However, Austin offered a different prediction when host Helwani asked if Cena might eventually regret his WrestleMania 41 heel turn.

“Regarding John Cena. Man. I love what Cena is doing. I love the way a guy talks his promos, where he’s going with it,” Austin stated. “I know some people think differently, but I like the ride that he’s taken me on because I’m invested in John Cena. I’ve watched him for a long time. He’s a class act.”

Austin believes Cena’s motivations differ from his own back in 2001. He attributes Cena’s current run to a passion for the business at this stage of his successful career.

“I think he’s going to look back and love what he’s doing, because he loves the business, and I think he truly enjoys it,” Austin continued. “He loves it so much that at this stage of his life… he’s only doing this because he loves it that much, and he wants to take the people on another ride and a ride that they haven’t been on yet, and it’s warranted and deserved.”

WWE President Nick Khan Shares Insights on Hiring, Culture Building and Failure

Andrew Ravens
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WWE President Nick Khan Shares Insights on Hiring, Culture Building and Failure

In a notable session focused on building successful enterprises at this week’s CAA World Congress of Sports (hosted by Sports Business Journal) in Nashville, WWE President Nick Khan provided valuable insights into his philosophy on organizational culture that has helped shape one of entertainment’s most recognizable brands.

Khan, who has been instrumental in WWE’s continued evolution, emphasized three key principles that guide his approach to leadership and company culture (all quotes in this article via SJB):

“No. 1, in our hiring practice, never hire people who do out-of-office replies,” Khan stated frankly during the session. “Not a fan. Message a person back, ‘Hey, I’m out of the office for the rest of the week. Do we need to talk now?'”

This seemingly small detail reveals Khan’s emphasis on responsiveness and availability in a fast-paced industry where opportunities and challenges can emerge at any moment.

Perhaps more significantly, Khan highlighted the critical importance of honest feedback within an organization, particularly as executives climb the corporate ladder.

“When you do have a vision for something and you’re going after it, if it’s not going well, you have to have people who work with you who can tell you that,” Khan explained.

“Sometimes as you grow in an organization and you get more towards the top, there’s a lot of people who say, ‘It’s great!’ ‘It’s great!’ But if it’s not great, you got to make sure that you have the key people in place who will tell you, ‘I don’t think this is going well.’ And at that moment you got to pivot out of it.”

This philosophy underscores Khan’s belief in creating an environment where candid communication takes precedence over performance flattery – a challenge many organizations face as leadership becomes more isolated.

How WWE Approaches Failure

Khan also addressed how WWE approaches failure, offering a refreshingly pragmatic perspective that acknowledges the inevitability of missteps in any business venture.

“We fail every day, multiple times every day, throughout the day. Don’t mistake that,” Khan acknowledged. “The clock strikes midnight and resets for a reason. No matter how good the day was, how bad the day was, it’s over. So, the key employees are the ones who wake up the next morning with a fresh look on their face and have a fresh start.”

This resilient mindset has likely contributed to WWE’s ability to adapt and evolve in a constantly changing entertainment landscape, allowing the organization to learn from setbacks rather than being defined by them.

Khan’s perspectives were shared alongside other industry leaders during the event, including Fenway Sports Group partner and CEO Sam Kennedy, who offered complementary insights on organizational culture, emphasizing the importance of surrounding yourself with “energy givers” rather than “energy takers.”

As WWE continues its global expansion and integration with UFC under TKO Group Holdings, Khan’s cultural philosophy offers valuable lessons for executives across the sports and entertainment landscape who aim to build resilient, honest, and forward-looking organizations.

More Details About Real American Freestyle Wrestling

Michael Reichlin
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More Details About Real American Freestyle Wrestling

In a bold move that merges Olympic-style grappling with professional wrestling spectacle, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff have officially announced elite coach Israel “Izzy” Martinez as the third partner in their new venture: Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW). The announcement came via an nWo-inspired teaser video that has already generated significant buzz in both the wrestling and combat sports communities.

During the announcement, Bischoff highlighted Martinez’s impressive credentials, describing him as a “nine-time state high-school champion” and “coach of eight UFC champions.” Hogan promised fans a “black-and-blue” fight scene where athletes “get paid to beat people up.”

Martinez himself addressed viewers directly: “You’ve seen what these two have done before. We’ve got the cash, we got the talent, we got real American freestyle wrestling.”

A Groundbreaking Concept

According to a press release, Real American Freestyle is being positioned as “an unscripted freestyle wrestling league injected with storytelling and colorful characters” that aims to “blend the drama of pro wrestling and reality shows with the unscripted competition of freestyle wrestling.” This represents a significant departure from traditional freestyle wrestling competitions, which typically lack the entertainment elements that make professional wrestling so popular.

Hogan explained their mission in the official press release:

“Real American wrestlers are some of the most disciplined, elite athletes in the world — but until now, they haven’t had a true professional stage to showcase their greatness. Eric and I know how to build the kind of heat that grabs attention and we’re going to make Real American Freestyle wrestling a must-see for fans.”

The Elite Partnership

The partnership brings together three individuals with complementary expertise and official roles:

Hulk Hogan will serve as Commissioner of Real American Freestyle, bringing his decades of experience in professional wrestling entertainment and global name recognition.

Eric Bischoff takes on the role of Chief Media Officer, contributing his extensive business acumen and experience in wrestling production. In the press release, Bischoff stated:

“I intimately understand and appreciate what it takes to perform at the level these athletes do, and I was always curious why this sport wasn’t recognized for the potential it has.”

Israel “Izzy” Martinez joins as Chief Operating Officer, providing the technical wrestling expertise and coaching prowess that gives RAFW its competitive legitimacy. Martinez expressed in the press release:

“I’ve been an athlete and a coach in the sport of wrestling, and couldn’t be more proud of what the Real American Freestyle team has built.”

Martinez’s Wrestling Pedigree

Martinez brings over two decades of elite wrestling coaching experience to the partnership. As the founder of Izzy Style Wrestling in Illinois, he has developed numerous NCAA All-Americans through his program.

He currently serves as the head wrestling coach at Jackson-Wink MMA, where he helped shape the career of Jon Jones, who captured eight UFC titles under his guidance. Martinez has also worked with other MMA champions including Holly Holm and top contender Yair Rodríguez.

His coaching philosophy blends traditional folkstyle fundamentals with freestyle techniques—an approach that forms “the backbone of RAFW.”

Competition Format and Roster

Real American Freestyle has already announced an impressive roster of talent. Former UFC fighter Ben Askren, former Olympian and world champion Kennedy Blades, and former national champion Zahid Valencia have all signed on to compete.

When asked about the ideal athlete for RAFW in an interview with Alfred Konuwa for Forbes, Hogan emphasized their approach:

“We went to Ohio, Wisconsin, hung around some of the colleges… and it wasn’t like just plain white toast. It wasn’t flat. It was like these guys have a Conor McGregor swagger already. They know about branding. They’re smartened up way ahead of their time.”

Bischoff added during the same interview:

“Wrestling in particular, you’ve got to be wired a little differently to reach the elite level that some of our athletes have. And part of that is just really, really interesting individual personalities and characters, and the things that these people have to overcome.”

Business Model and Media Approach

RAFW will receive venture capital investment from Left Lane Capital, backers of Gerard Piqué’s Kings League, Shaun White’s Snow League, and League One Volleyball. This significant financial backing suggests a serious commitment to building the promotion as a long-term venture.

Regarding their media approach, Bischoff explained to Forbes:

“It is about, as Hulk said, much like The Voice on NBC, it is a show about singers… You don’t really care until you find out what it took for them to get there. And you learn about their families, you learn about the history… Those are the stories that matter the most. Much more than something a Hollywood writer could come up with.”

While no TV deals have been announced yet, Bischoff noted in his Forbes interview:

“We know that right now the market for sports rights, television rights. It’s a very healthy market and we’re glad to be in it, but we’ve got our work to do.”

The Future of RAFW

The promotion aims to create a unique format that bridges the gap between amateur wrestling and professional entertainment. According to Hogan in the Forbes interview: “I think with this amateur wrestling, the storytelling is going to be so organic, that once these guys get in that gladiator arena and they start tugging and pulling for position… their whole life is on the line, I think the storytelling is going to get really crazy as to how far these guys are going to go to win.”

Bischoff emphasized to Forbes that: “These are not sports entertainment stories. These are not crafted by writers… You learn about their families, you learn about the history. You learn about the people in their church who inspired them and kept them going.”

According to Martinez in the press release, this new venture represents a significant opportunity for amateur wrestlers: “Until now, wrestlers have not had the opportunity to seek a professional career as there was not adequate funding or attention being paid to it. This league will provide them with a platform to not only do that, but build their skills, brand, and legacy.”

As RAFW continues to develop its roster, ruleset, and media presence, the wrestling world will be watching closely. With the combined industry expertise of these three figures, RAFW’s debut could represent one of the most significant innovations in wrestling entertainment in recent memory.

Hulk Hogan Critical of John Cena’s WWE Heel Turn: ‘I Just Got Disconnected’

Michael Reichlin
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Hulk Hogan Critical of John Cena’s WWE Heel Turn: ‘I Just Got Disconnected’

Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has offered candid thoughts on John Cena’s recent heel turn while discussing his new venture with longtime collaborator Eric Bischoff. In a wide-ranging interview with Forbes published on April 30, 2025, Hogan didn’t hold back when comparing Cena’s character switch to his own historic 1996 heel turn that launched the nWo.

When asked to compare John Cena’s heel turn to his own historic turn, Hogan initially deflected, saying: “I’m going to let Eric comment on that, because if I talk first, I could say something that’s [not appropriate].”

This hesitation suggested Hogan had strong opinions about the execution of Cena’s character change, which he later elaborated on after Bischoff shared his thoughts.

Respect for Cena as a Performer

Despite his criticisms, Hogan expressed genuine respect for Cena, stating:

“Well, first off, John Cena was my favorite wrestler. Let me start there. Because I grinded for years, brother, and there was no Rock, no Stone Cold. There was only me for 20-plus years. I saw all the Make-A-Wish kids… So John stepped up and really ran with the ball and he did a really great job.”

The acknowledgment of Cena’s charitable work and his role in carrying WWE during his era demonstrated Hogan’s appreciation for Cena’s contributions to professional wrestling.

Criticism of Cena’s Heel Turn Execution

However, Hogan criticized how Cena’s heel turn was executed compared to the nWo storyline:

“We set it up, we set up, we set up, then we delivered. And then not only did we deliver, we rolled out with me, Hall and Nash. And that story kept snowballing and snowballing, and we kept getting more evil and evil.”

Continuing his critique, Hogan added:

“And so for me, watching that story with John Cena, when The Rock did the throat thing, cut his throat, and John Cena turned heel, I expected more of the same. And then John Cena came out and there was no Rock, and I just got disconnected at that point, ’cause I was expecting the characters to keep rolling out like we did.”

Comparing the Impact of Both Turns

Hogan emphasized the greater impact of his nWo turn:

“Like when the nWo took over, man, I even hate to say the word, we just cleaned house and beat everybody’s ass, and we just killed it. All the babyfaces were crying and complaining, and it got really ugly. We were so powerful with that trio.”

The wrestling icon clearly believes the follow-through and long-term storytelling behind his own heel turn created a more significant impact than what he’s seen from Cena’s character change so far.

Real American Freestyle Wrestling

The interview was conducted as part of Hogan and Bischoff’s promotion of their new venture called “Real American Freestyle,” an unscripted freestyle wrestling league that aims to combine legitimate wrestling competition with the storytelling elements that made professional wrestling successful.

Real American Freestyle Wrestling: Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff Unveil Izzy Martinez

JBL on WWE’s AAA Acquisition: ‘Don’t WWE It, Preserve Lucha Libre’s Heritage’

Michael Reichlin
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JBL on WWE’s AAA Acquisition: ‘Don’t WWE It, Preserve Lucha Libre’s Heritage’

WWE legend JBL has enthusiastically endorsed WWE’s acquisition of Mexican wrestling promotion AAA, calling it a “fantastic partnership” while emphasizing the importance of preserving lucha libre’s unique cultural identity.

Speaking on Conrad Thompson’s Something to Wrestle podcast, JBL expressed excitement about the business move while cautioning against completely transforming the product as WWE has done with past territory acquisitions.

“I’m excited about them with Triple A. I think it’s great,” JBL said during the interview. “I always thought that WWE should have done this maybe back in the day where you acquire a territory like Mexico that is completely different that wants their own culture and wants their own heritage and wants their own history, but wants to be a part also.”

The former WWE Champion elaborated on his vision for the partnership, emphasizing cultural preservation.

“Not where you WWE it… but where you buy it and you have a WWE influx into it, but you leave the culture and heritage the same with Lucha Libre,” he stated, highlighting a key concern among wrestling fans about corporate acquisitions.

JBL also used the opportunity to spotlight rising talent he’s observed through his visits to Triple A events.

“That [Vikingo], I think that’s how you say his name. I watched him have a match down there with Del Rio. That kid is freaking amazing,” he raved.

This acquisition, scheduled to close later this year, represents a significant step in WWE’s global strategy under Triple H’s leadership.

The first AAA event under the WWE banners is taking place in less than six weeks at WWE NXT x AAA: Worlds Collide on June 7, 2025.

Triple H Reveals Intentions Behind WWE’s AAA Acquisition

JBL: Paul Heyman-Seth Rollins Alliance ‘Perfect’ Move for WWE’s Future

Michael Reichlin
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JBL: Paul Heyman-Seth Rollins Alliance ‘Perfect’ Move for WWE’s Future

WWE Hall of Famer JBL has given his emphatic approval of Paul Heyman’s shocking alliance with Seth Rollins at WrestleMania, calling it the “perfect” creative direction for everyone involved.

Speaking on Conrad Thompson’s Something to Wrestle podcast, JBL explained why pairing Heyman with Rollins makes strategic sense, especially with Roman Reigns and CM Punk currently positioned as fan favorites.

“Seth Rollins was the right choice. I thought that was the way… that was 100% the way I would go,” JBL stated firmly. “Paul Heyman, I think is a separate issue. But if you want to put a fresh coat of paint on Paul, which is really hard to do after 30, 40 years in the business of being constantly in main events, all of a sudden now Paul Heyman is just as rejuvenated as ever.”

The former World Champion further praised Heyman’s legendary career while noting how this new alliance continues his unprecedented success as a manager.

“He’s got the greatest run of a manager in the history of the world and he’s done it again and he’s on fire again with a new guy that went over two incredible legends,” JBL added.

This alliance could significantly impact WWE’s main event scene moving forward, with Heyman once again positioned to influence championship storylines despite his decades-long career already being considered the most successful managerial run in wrestling history. The move gives Heyman a fresh start after his iconic pairings Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns and The Bloodline.

Karrion Kross Teases Joining Seth Rollins’ New Power Alliance After Sami Zayn’s Rejection
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