Home Blog Page 1013

CM Punk Reveals If He Watches NXT

Anutosh Bajpai
-
0

Former WWE champion CM Punk took on his Twitter yesterday to offer some high praise to two members of the current NXT roster, while also revealing if he watches the show.

The Leader Of The Straight Edge Society made a tweet and said that everyone else on the show should feel embarrassment at the fact that Pat McAfee is a better promo than everyone else on the NXT roster.

A fan replied to these comments from Punk and asked what he thinks is the ceiling for the former NFL player if he fully commits himself to wrestling.

Interestingly Punk responded by claiming that there is zero reason for Pat to commit to the sport full time because he is already the best thing on the show apart from Rhea Ripley.

This exchange led many to wonder if the former WWE star watches the Black And Yellow brand responding to which, the former UFC star said ‘Not always.’ You can check out the full exchange below:

Neither of the NXT stars have responded to this praise from the wrestling veteran so far and it would be interesting to know what they think about Punk’s comments.

Eric Bischoff Reveals The One Thing He Hated About Triple H’s Character

Anutosh Bajpai
-
0

Eric Bischoff has stayed active in the wrestling business even after the folding of WCW and the former WCW President has worked backstage roles for different promotions, including a couple of runs with WWE.

His first run with the company came in the early 2000s, a time which many consider to be the peak of Triple H’s in-ring career. On the latest episode of his 83 Weeks podcast, the former WCW official talked about Triple H’s reign in detail.

During the interview, Eric Bischoff also revealed the one thing he hated about Triple H’s character, calling him out for never changing his entrance:

“So here is the infamous Triple H entrance that never changed, whether he was a heel or a babyface, I f–king hate it. I hate it. I mean, if you’re going to be a heel, damn it, be a heel! Don’t be a hero. Don’t come out there like someone doing a Marvel audition for the next Thor movie. If you’re a heel, you’re a heel. Jesus Christ.”

Bischoff continued the explanation saying that the reason Triple H never got heat from fans as a heel was because he never really wanted to be one:

“And you wonder why he never really got any heat, because he wasn’t really a heel, he didn’t want to be a heel. He’d wrestle like a heel. He would do the chicken s–t things that were requisite to be a heel within the body of a match, but the character would never change. He’s out there spitting his water, and oh my God.”

Though later in the interview, Eric Bischoff confirmed that he has no personal heat with the WWE Vice President and he is just having fun with the comments.

WWE SmackDown Results (12/4): Roman Reigns Attacks Jey, Title Matches Set For TLC

Robert Lentini
-
0

WWE SmackDown aired live from the ThunderDome in the Amway Center. Roman Reigns & Jey Uso battled Kevin Owns & Otis in the main event. SmackDown opened with a ten bell salute to the late Pat Patterson.

SmackDown Results (12/4)

  1. Natalya def. Bayley via submission
  2. Daniel Bryan, Rey Mysterio, Big E def. Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler, Shinsuke Nakamura
  3. King Corbin def. Murphy
  4. Kevin Owens & Otis def. Roman Reigns & Jey Uso via DQ

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Kevin Owens Challenged Roman Reigns

Universal Champion Roman Reigns came down to the ring with Paul Heyman and Jey Uso to begin the show. Kayla Braxton said Kevin Owens has made it clear that he does not fear Roman and asked Reigns if he feared Kevin. Reigns laughed and told Kayla that this is probably the most relevant thing that she has ever done and she comes in here and asks stupid questions.

Reigns said that Michael Cole is more experienced and Kayla blew it with a stupid question. Braxston asked if Reigns is using Jey as a pawn and manipulating him. Roman stated those are stupid words for stupid people and claimed that he is a protector and a provider. Roman called Kayla an amateur and asked Paul to respond. Heyman noted that Jey has main evented SmackDown several times and SmackDown has had its highest ratings in some time.

Kevin Owens interrupted and said he doesn’t see the point in waiting until later tonight. Owens got into the ring and Heyman went to respond but Jey ripped the microphone away. Jey accepted the challenge for a fight but Owens said he wasn’t talking to the busboy, he was talking to the Head of the Table.

Owens suggested that Roman Reigns put the Universal Championship on the line in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match at the WWE TLC PPV later this month. Reigns said that they do not fear anyone and accepted Owens’ challenge. Roman added that there is a time and a place for everything and the time is not right for a fight now. Reigns noted that there is a lady in the ring and Owens needs to grow up. Reigns, Jey, and Heyman then left the ring but Owens grabbed the microphone again. Owens said he will grow up when Reigns grows some balls and called the Universal Champion a bitch.

It was then made official following the commercial break. Roman Reigns will put the Universal Championship on the line against Kevin Owens in a TLC match on December 20th at the PPV.

Natalya Tapped Out Bayley

Bayley squared off against Natalya in the first match of the night. Bianca Belair joined commentary for the match. Natalya took Bayley to the mat to start of fthe match. Bayley battled back and unloaded several punches to Natalya against the ropes.

Bayley knocked Natalya out of the ring and started taunting Belair. Bayley leveled Natalya with a Dropkick and continued to yell at Bianca. Natalya capitalized and sent Bayley into the steel steps as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Bayley tried to get Natalya in the Sharpshooter but she escaped. Bayley caught Natalya with a knee to the face and followed it up with a Clothesline. Bayley went for another knee but Natalya got out of the way and Bayley hit the turnbuckle. Natalya applied the Sharpshooter and Bayley tapped out as Bianca Belair clapped ringside.

Daniel Bryan, Mysterio, Big E Picked Up A Win

Daniel Bryan, Rey Mysterio, Big E faced Dolph Ziggler, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Sami Zayn in a 6-man tag team match.

Mysterio hit Nakamura with a Hurricanrana and then tagged in Big E. Ziggler tagged in and Big E greeted him with a slam. Daniel Bryan tagged in and hit Dolph with an uppercut. Sami tripped up Bryan and Ziggler capitalized with a forearm to the back of Daniel’s head.

Bryan hit Sami with a Suicide Dive and then knocked Nakamura off the ring apron. Ziggler sent Bryan to the floor outside the ring as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Ziggler and Bryan collided and both superstars crashed to the canvas.

Big E and Nakamura tagged in and Big E connected with three Belly to Belly Suplexes. Big E followed it up with a Splash but Nakamura sent him to the corner with a boot to the face. Nakamura charged at Big E but he was ready and planted Shinsuke with a Uranage.

Sami Zayn and Rey Mysterio tagged in and traded shots in the middle of the ring. Zayn connected with the Blue Thunder Bomb and went for the cover but Rey was able to kick out at the last moment. Dolph and Bryan tagged back in and Daniel connected with a Dropkick in the corner of the ring.

Bryan unloaded some Yes Kicks and perched Ziggler up on the top turnbuckle. Bryan joined him up there and went for a Hurricanrana but Dolph countered into a roll-up for a two count. Ziggler planted Bryan with the Fameasser and went for the cover but Big E broke it up.

Mysterio hit Nakamura with a Senton but Sami quickly launched Rey into the barricade. Zayn tagged himself in as Bryan hit Dolph with the Running Knee. Zayn got into the ring and rolled up Bryan but Daniel countered into the Yes Lock in the middle of the ring. Sami got his foot on the bottom rope to break up the hold. Sami connected with a Brainbuster and went for the cover but Bryan kicked out at two. Bryan rolled up Sami for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Big E and Rey sent Nakamura and Sami out of the ring. Ziggler pleaded for mercy and Daniel hit him with an Atomic Drop. Rey followed it up with the 619 and then Big E hit the Big Ending on Ziggler.

Sasha Banks Will Battle Carmella At TLC

SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks and Carmella were interviewed in separate locations tonight on SmackDown. Cole was about to ask Carmella a question but Sasha quickly interrupted.

Banks stated that Carmella wishes she could be like her and Carmella called Sasha a Nicki Minaj wannabe. Sasha noted that Carmella needed help to win the first two women’s MITB matches and Carmella joked that she cannot help that men are obsessed with her.

Sasha said that Carmella isn’t in her league and that is why they have never faced one on one. Carmella claimed that Banks was jealous of her because she walked into the WWE Performance Center and everything came so easy to her. Carmella added that she held onto the SmackDown Women’s Championship longer than Sasha’s title reigns combined. Banks said it was embarrassing that Carmella thinks she has a chance against her. Sasha told Carmella that she has her title shot at TLC.

Cutler & Blake Returned As Corbin’s Henchmen

Murphy once again battled King Corbin tonight on SmackDown. The Mysterio family accompanied Murphy to the ring and the Forgotten Sons (Cutler & Blake) came to the ring with King Corbin.

Corbin slammed Murphy into the turnbuckle and launched him across the ring. Murphy went for a Sunset Flip but Corbin blocked it. Murphy sent Corbin out of the ring but got distracted by Cutler & Blake. Corbin capitalized on the distraction and launched Murphy over the announce table as SmackDown went to a break.

When SmackDown returned, Corbin planted Murphy with a Side Slam for a two count. Murphy connected with a Dropkick off the middle turnbuckle and then a knee to the face that sent Corbin tumbling out of the ring. Murphy climbed to the top rope as Blake and Cutler attacked Dominik & Rey. Corbin capitalized on the distraction and hit End of Days on Murphy for the pinfall victory.

Reigns Attacked Owens & Jey Uso

Kevin Owens and Otis faced Roman Reigns and Jey Uso in the main event. Roman Reigns told Jey that there would be consequences for his actions and didn’t come down to the ring with him.

Otis beat Jey down in the corner of the ring to start off the match. Jey hit Otis with a couple strikes to the face but Otis responded with a massive Clothesline. Owens tagged in and Jey connected with a Samoan Drop. Universal Champion Roman Reigns then made his way down the entrance ramp and hopped on the ring apron.

Owens dropped Jey with an Enziguri and Reigns hopped into the ring. Roman hit Otis with a Superman Punch and slammed him into the ring post. Reigns then launched Otis into the steel steps and then bashed then on Otis’ midsection several times. Kevin attacked Reigns but Jey took him out with a Suicide Dive as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Reigns hit Owens with a Clothesline and tagged Jey in. Jey taunted Owens and said he talked too much as he punched him in the face in the corner of the ring. Owens battled back and hit Jey with a Cannonball as Roman Reigns got frustrated on the ring apron.

Owens hit Jey with a couple chops to the chest and followed it up with a Clothesline. Kevin connected with a Senton and then planted Jey with a DDT for a two count. Owens planted Jey with a Samoan Drop and stared at Reigns on the apron. Owens shouted at Reigns to get into the ring and he did. Roman hit Kevin with an uppercut and Jey followed it up with a Superkick.

Jey climbed to the top rope and set up for the Uso Splash but Roman demanded that the get down and come tag him. Owens hit Reigns off the ring apron and then connected with a Stunner on Jey. Reigns got into the ring and locked in the Guillotine choke on Owens and the match ended in a DQ. Reigns told Jey to grab a steel chair and chased the referee out of the ring.

Reigns and Jey took turns beating the hell out of Kevin Owens with steel chairs as Heyman shouted “oh my God!” from ringside. Jey put the steel chair on top of Owens and hit him with the Uso Splash. Roman then betrayed Jey Uso and beat him down with the chair. Reigns grabbed Owens’ and said that he is trying to make him a monster in front of the whole world. Roman vowed to take everything that Owens loves away at TLC. Reigns added that Owens and his family will now fear him as the show went off the air.

Opinion: SmackDown has been very good as of late and this week’s show delivered once again. Roman Reigns is must watch television right now because everything he is doing is flawless. I loved the opening promo and just what a pompous jerk Reigns was during it. If there was a crowd everyone would have been chanting “a**hole!” at Roman at the beginning and at the end of the show. It will be interesting to see if this another lesson for Jey Uso or Roman is done with him.

There hasn’t been anything interesting in the feud between Banks and Carmella but I really enjoyed their interview segment tonight. I thought each superstar got in some good shots at each other and provided some material to get excited for the title match at TLC.

Big Matches Added To WWE TLC, Updated Card

Andrew Ravens
-
0

WWE announced a few new matches on Friday night for the upcoming WWE TLC pay-per-view event. 

First up is Bray Wyatt’s The Fiend character taking on Randy Orton in a singles match. Because WWE likes to have TLC themed stipulations for the top matches on the card, it’s possible that this bout receives a stipulation. 

The second match will see WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler vs. Asuka & Lana. 

This bout comes days after Asuka and Lana beat Jax and Bazler in a non-title match this past Monday night on RAW. 

WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks vs. Carmella was also added.

Last but not least is Roman Reigns defending his WWE Universal Title against Kevin Owens in an actual TLC Match. This looks to be the main event of TLC although that has yet to be confirmed. 

WWE presents the TLC pay-per-view event on December 20, 2020 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida that will air on the WWE Network. 

WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming weeks. The company has already a big match for this show that will see WWE Champion Drew McIntyre vs. AJ Styles.

Booker T Reflects On The Undertaker’s ‘Final Farewell’ At Survivor Series

WWE NXT TakeOver: WarGames Betting Odds

Andrew Ravens
-
0

The final betting odds have been released for the WWE NXT TakeOver: WarGames event.

The card for the show that takes place this Sunday appears to be finalized as only 5 matches have been announced. It’s possible that a sixth match is added whether that be on the main card or pre-show. 

Some of the more notable odds include The Undisputed Era is favored to win the Men’s WarGames Match while Shotzi Blackheart, Ember Moon, Rhea Ripley, and Io Shirai are favored to win the Women’s WarGames Match

There are no titles expected to change, according to the odds.

WWE NXT TakeOver: WarGames Odds

As a reminder, we will be providing coverage of the show this Sunday. The favorites to win are listed as – while the underdogs are listed with +. Here are the final betting odds:

WWE NXT North American Champion Leon Ruff 1/2 vs. Johnny Gargano 3/2 vs. Damien Priest 9/4- Triple Threat Match

Cameron Grimes +200 vs. Dexter Lumis -250 – Strap Match

WarGames Match: The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, Kyle O’Reilly, Bobby Fish) -300 vs. The Kings of NXT +240 (Pat McAfee, Pete Dunne, NXT Tag Team Champions Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch)

WarGames Match: Shotzi Blackheart, Ember Moon, Rhea Ripley, and Io Shirai -200 vs. Candice LeRae, Toni Storm, Raquel Gonzalez, Indie Heartwell, and Dakota Kai +150

Keith Lee Opens Up On Feeling Like He Abandoned WWE NXT

Melina Responds To Fan Asking About Reports She Signed With WWE

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Melina has further commented on reports that she had signed with WWE. 

It was first reported by PWinsider.com back in September that she had come to terms with the company to make a return. There was even talk of her being part of the RAW roster when she did come back as a full-time performer on WWE television. 

A few days after the initial report came out, she expressed her frustration with wrestling news websites about it. 

She responded to a fan on Twitter asking what happened to her WWE return. She wrote the following:

“The dirt sheets lie about stuff like that for clicks. That’s why I was upset a few months back. The dirt sheets lie about so much & fans deserve better. Best to follow the promotions & the wrestlers, along with people like @VickieGuerrero, @LilianGarcia & @ChrisVanVliet.”

It has to be noted that while Melina is denying that she signed with WWE and perhaps that is indeed the case, there have been past instances of wrestlers not always telling the truth as a way to keep things a surprise such as WALTER.

https://twitter.com/WalterAUT/status/969265942705434624

Her last appearance on WWE television came in July 2019 when she made a cameo on the RAW Reunion edition.

Melina Denies Reports She’s Signed With WWE

AEW Dynamite To Be Preempted Christmas Week

Andrew Ravens
-
0

It appears that the AEW Dynamite episode to air during Christmas week will have to change dates thanks to the NBA, which released its regular season schedule on Friday. 

During the reveal of the schedule, it was confirmed that the Milwaukee Bucks vs. the Boston Celtics will take place on Wednesday, December 23 at 7:30 pm ET and live air on TNT. AEW usually airs at 8 pm ET every Wednesday night. As a result, the show will have to be moved.

This also means that WWE NXT will go unopposed on this night. The good news for AEW, this will be the only time that they’ll have to deal with this issue until the NBA playoffs start. 

As of this writing, AEW has not announced a new date for the December 23 show, but that will likely change in the near future. 

AEW has already announced several matches and segments for next week’s episode of Dynamite. 

Among things set for the show include FTR facing The Varsity Blondes (Griff Garrison and Brian Pillman Jr), Orange Cassidy vs. MJF for the Dynamite Diamond Ring, and Sting speaking for the first time about his promotional debut. 

Chris Jericho Talks Working With Dean Malenko in AEW, Changing ‘Coach’

Handicap Match & Firefly Fun House Set For Monday’s WWE RAW

Andrew Ravens
-
0

WWE has announced two things ahead of Monday’s episode of RAW. 

Last week on RAW, AJ Styles became the number 1 contender for the WWE Championship after beating Keith Lee and Riddle in a Triple Threat Match to earn the shot at the WWE Title. Before he does, he will face McIntyre in a handicap match.

The WWE Champion is slated to team up with Sheamus to take on Styles, John Morrison and Money In The Bank holder The Miz in a Handicap Match. In the weeks leading up to this match, Miz has been teasing cashing in his MITB case. There’s also been teases of Sheamus turning heel again and going after McIntyre’s title. 

The segment announced for the show is Randy Orton inviting himself into the FireFly Fun House. Based on angles done in recent weeks, it appears that WWE is building towards Orton taking on Bray Wyatt in a stipulation match at the WWE TLC pay-per-view. 

Orton recently brought up how he’s faced Wyatt in the past, which he has most notably in 2017 that saw them wrestle for the WWE Title at WrestleMania 33, but he has yet to face The Fiend.

Styles will challenge McIntyre for the WWE Title at TLC, which takes place on December 20th. 

WWE Bringing Back The Slammy Awards

Bully Ray Compares McIntyre/Sheamus to Orton/Edge

Jake Skudder
-
0

WWE Hall of Famer and co-host of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio Bully Ray recently discussed the RAW interactions between Drew McIntyre and Sheamus. Ray would compare the two British Superstars to Randy Orton and Edge; saying how their real life history gives the potential upcoming storyline feud ‘real life’ legitimacy.

Bully Ray on Orton vs Edge

“Randy [Orton] and Edge have characters and personalities that are carved out” Bully Ray began on Busted Open. “That’s why you will stay invested in their story. They had a history, that’s why you will stay invested in that story. They talked about real life relationships, but their real life relationship? That’s why you will stay invested in that story.”

Edge and Randy Orton had a run of bouts earlier in the year. These would include the Last Man Standing match at WrestleMania and ‘The Greatest Wrestling Match Ever’ at Backlash.

“Sheamus and Drew [McIntyre] are very similar” Bully Ray would continue. “They’re friends in real life. They have story, characters and personalities that are carved out and definitive. That’s why you’ll be invested.”

Drew McIntyre and Sheamus go back an extremely long way. The two men were featured members of the Irish Whip Wrestling promotion, back in

Bully Ray would then use a movie analogy to finish and elaborate on the point. “This is why being into the character or the personality first? Is so important. When you watch a movie, what’s the most important thing a movie can do within the first half hour or so? Build the characters.”

Do you agree with Bully Ray? Do you think that Sheamus vs Drew McIntyre could be a strong feud given their British/Irish links? Let us know in the comments

Chris Jericho Talks Working With Dean Malenko in AEW, Changing ‘Coach’

Jake Skudder
-
0

Former AEW Champion Chris Jericho recently discussed Dean Malenko and the role of an agent/coach on his Talk Is Jericho podcast. This week’s episode featured AEW star QT Marshall, who himself has apparently been working with Chris Jericho to ‘agent’ some of his matches.

“Dean [Malenko] was always my coach, agent, producer, until finally recently I was like, ‘he’s being wasted with me'” Jericho began on the podcast. “Because I put together my stuff and I’ll always ask Dean his opinion. But [AEW should] put him with some guys that he can really be helping with.”

Jericho and Malenko are of course two stars who are very well aware of each other’s in-ring capabilities. Chris Jericho’s famous ‘man of 1,004 holds’ promo (including the armbar) came during the duo’s feud in WCW. During the late nineties both Jericho and Malenko were an integral part of WCW’s Cruiserweight division. Both men would end up leaving to join the then WWF at different points.

Chris Jericho on QT Marshall

“I said just put QT with me” Chris Jericho would continue. “Because the few times when I had a question for QT or I said ‘do you have any suggestions?’ He came up with a couple of things. That’s like what Jamie Noble was like [as an agent], it didn’t have to be a lot.”

Jericho would finish by saying how he is at a point in his career where he wants to get pointers and ideas, whereas someone the calibre of Malenko can be helping younger talent on a more 50/50 basis.

“Dean did it last week with me and Max’s [MJF] match. Sometimes one idea is all you need to fit everything together you know? I was like ‘just put QT with me, let me bounce off my 99%. if he has 1%? Great. Let Dean go do 50/50 with the younger guys, you know?”

Do you think that Chris Jericho will move into a ‘coaching’ role when he finishes in-ring with AEW? Let us know in the comments

The Great Khali Joins Farmer Protests In India

Chris Stephens
-
0

Former World Heavyweight Champion, the Great Khali, has joined the ongoing mass farmer protests in India. Khali is urging Indians to support their farmers and oppose new regulations brought in this September by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Khali is fairly easy to notice at the protests as he stands a foot taller than anyone else.

https://twitter.com/manwinder98/status/1333828991191457794

Additional footage of The Great Khali at the protests can be viewed in the player below:

205 Live’s Bollywood Boyz also posted about the protests:

What Are The Farmers In India Protesting?

58% of Indians rely on farming for their livelihoods. New laws passed this September have eliminated mandatory minimum prices for their products, however, which many feel will open up the doors for corporations to undercut their competition. This could be devastating for individual and smaller-scale farmers.

Tens of thousands of farmers have flocked to New Delhi to protest the new laws. They have been met with police resistance.

The protests have caused a bit of an international incident between India and Canada, where 1.37 million people with Indian heritage live (including Jinder Mahal & the Bollywood Boyz). Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a statement supporting the farmers’ right to protest and was more or less told to stay out of it by the Indian government. Trudeau’s response is below:

https://twitter.com/NatashaFatah/status/1334907563159265282

WWE Bringing Back The Slammy Awards

Chris Stephens
-
0

After a 5-year hiatus, the Slammy Awards are returning to WWE. The last time the awards were held was on December 21st, 2015.

WWE released a Tweet recently that lists the “2020 Slammy Awards” as being added to the WWE Network in December. Other content being added to the Network this month includes a Q&A session between Drew McIntyre and Matthew McConaughey, an episode of WWE Untold on Goldberg’s streak, a Broken Skulls Session with Drew McIntyre, and something listed as “WWE Superstar Gaming Series.”

EoLVu2OXYAc9BYW

Slammy Award Winners

The awards ran most recently from 2008-2015. Previous awards were given out twice during the 80s and 3 times during the 90s.

Superstar of the Year Slammy Award Winners:

  • 2015: Seth Rollins
  • 2014: Roman Reigns
  • 2013: Daniel Bryan
  • 2012: John Cena
  • 2011: CM Punk
  • 2010: John Cena
  • 2009: John Cena
  • 2008: Chris Jericho
  • 1997: The Undertaker (Star of the Highest Magnitude)
  • 1996: Shawn Michaels (Leader of the New Generation)
  • 1994: Diesel (MVP)
  • 1987: “Superstar” Billy Graham (Hulk Hogan “Real American” Award)
  • 1986: Junkyard Dog (Best Single Performer)

Other notable award-winners from 2015 included the Usos being named Tag Team of the Year. Nikki Bella won “Diva of the Year” and Brock Lesnar vs The Undertaker from Hell in a Cell won Match of the Year.

Court Bauer Teases A Wrestling ‘World War’ Is Brewing

Michael Reichlin
-
0

MLW boss Court Bauer is teasing that a “world war” of sorts could be brewing that would have far reaching effects across the entire wrestling industry.

MLW worked with AAA earlier this year and recently announced a partnership with IWA Puerto Rico. In a tweet sent out on 11/28, Bauer teased that he just got off the phone with another major international promotion.

https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1332862189015855105

During a media call held earlier this week, Court Bauer teased that MLW is in talks with more than one promotion about working together. He mentioned a ‘world war’ brewing and says we should know more about this before the year is over.

“In all seriousness, I think we all see a world war of sorts brewing,” said Bauer. “I can’t say anything right now but hope to be able to say a lot more before the end of the year. We’ll see.”

This news comes as AEW has established a working relationship with Impact Wrestling. Even WWE sounds more open to partnering with other promotions, the biggest indication yet that the landscape is shifting before our very eyes.

Update On Trey Miguel’s Free Agency

Chris Stephens
-
0

The Rascalz finished up with Impact Wrestling earlier this month. Two members of the group, Zachary Wentz and Desmond Xavier, have already reported to WWE’s Performance Center. WWE announced they are two of the latest recruits who have begun training at the facility.

As for Trey Miguel, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that he is weighing his options and has interest from both WWE and AEW. “Trey Miguel, the third member of the team, was at last word considering both WWE and AEW,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

Wentz and Xavier were a team before Miguel was added to the group. They started teaming together in the winter of 2015/16 for promotions such as Combat Zone Wrestling and Rockstar Pro. Myron Reed and Trey Miguel were added to the CZW version of the stable in 2018. In PWG, Wentz and Xavier debuted as a tag-team and would eventually win the promotion’s tag titles twice.

The faction debuted in Impact Wrestling during the fall of 2018. This version was a three-man group consisting of Zachary Wentz, Trey Miguel, and Dezmond Xavier.

Trey Miguel is also the current champion for Chicago’s Warrior Wrestling promotion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3pf0gsr6UY

Eric Bischoff On Sting In AEW: ‘A Motivated Steve Borden Can Be A Powerful Addition’

Steve Russell
-
0

Former WCW President Eric Bischoff has commented on Sting’s recent AEW debut at Winter is Coming. Bischoff responded to fans commenting on the debut on Twitter. He shared his excitement over what Sting’s signing means for AEW and “The Icon” himself.

Bischoff discussed the future storyline potential that would include the former WCW World Champion. He explained how AEW has so far “[…] over delivered on one very important story element and have laid an intriguing foundation for another.” As far as Bischoff is concerned, he’s all in on Sting’s involvement with the promotion.

In response to another fan commenting on Sting’s WCW ‘Crow’ gimmick, Bischoff reflected on how it was an “amazing story/arc” that helped redefine his character. He added how a “motivated Steve Borden can be a powerful addition to the cast.”

Sting Debuts

“The Icon” debuted during this Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite. The Winter is Coming special not only saw the surprise debut of Sting, it also saw Kenny Omega dethrone Jon Moxley to become the new AEW World Champion.

AEW has hyped up Sting’s appearance on next week’s episode of Dynamite. “The Icon” is set to speak about his actions at Winter is Coming and will no doubt hint towards his future intentions.

MJF Named In The New York Times’ Best Performances of 2020

Michael Reichlin
-
0

The New York Times has named its Best Performances of 2020.

Alongside distinguished actors and actresses in big budget dramas by Netflix and HBO sits Maxwell Jacob Friedman for his performance in Le Dinner Debonair.

Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Wesley Morris gushes about MJF’s talent, stating that nobody in WWE matches what he brings to the table.

“Some weeks the athleticism at this professional wrestling start-up [AEW] is more exciting than anything happening in Vince McMahon’s empire. And no one in the WWE has this kid’s combination of diction (Juilliard by way of Long Island), intensity or cheesiness, either.”

The critic continued, “Even when Friedman’s lost his cool (his nom de ring is MJF), he still has astounding control. The character is part heel, part tool (hair gel, loafers, Burberry bling — tacky, tacky, tacky) and part goodfella wannabe; his mouth does more running than he does.”

Morris said that Jericho & MJF’s rendition of Me and My Shadow was ‘less than spectacular,’ but credits MJF for making it so memorable.

“He wasn’t embarrassed at all. He was smooth in a way that should worry Ric Flair. This kid makes you wanna say, ‘Woo!'”

MJF defends his Dynamite Diamond Ring against Orange Cassidy next week on AEW Dynamite.

You can read the full feature at the New York Times. 

Sting’s AEW T-Shirt Sets Pro Wrestling Tees Sales Record

Steve Russell
-
0

Sting made his All Elite Wrestling debut during this week’s episode of Dynamite. The appearance of “The Icon” shocked wrestling fans across the world and has already helped to set a new record.

Pro Wrestling Tees has shared that Sting’s debut has helped set a new record for the store. Following Wednesday’s special episode, Winter is Coming, Sting’s new shirt on Pro Wrestling Tees set a new record for the most shirts sold in 24 hours.

Although they hyped the accomplishment, the Instagram caption highlighted that it hadn’t even been 24 hours at the time of the post. The total number of shirts sold by the end of the actual 24 hours would, in theory, easily surpass previous records for the popular t-shirt company.

Following his debut, Pro Wrestling Tee’s released a brand new t-shirt, baseball cap and hoody, all adorned with Sting’s new AEW logo. “The Icon” sported the t-shirt himself during his debut on the show.

EoV3qEXXEAEUynE?format=jpg&name=small

Sting in AEW

Sting came out following the tag team match between Cody Rhodes and Darby Allin versus Team Taz representatives Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs.

“The Icon” would make his way into the ring and stare down Nightmare Family members Arn Anderson, Dustin Rhodes and Cody Rhodes. He then stared down Darby Allin before leaving the ring.

Sting will speak for the first time live on AEW next week on Dynamite.

Update On AEW’s Potential Interest In Tessa Blanchard

Chris Stephens
-
0

Tessa Blanchard has wrestled just one match since leaving Impact Wrestling this year. She never returned to the promotion following the onset of the global pandemic. Impact ultimately stripped her of the world title as a result.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW is not interested in bringing her in, despite her immense talent. “Based on what we were told, when her name came up, the feeling was that while nobody will deny her talent and from that standpoint they know she’d be very valuable, especially with the nature of their women’s division, the decision was made to not pursue her,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

In September, Blanchard released a statement addressing her hiatus from wrestling in 2020 and future plans.

“I’ve been away for a while, the main reason for that is to focus on my wedding & honeymoon. The past few months I’ve gotten back to the basics & been focusing on the relationships I have with family, friends & myself,” Blanchard wrote. 

“The point of this post is because I’m taking back the control of my narrative. I’ve had people weigh in on what I should do, what I should say, what interview to do, where to go.. now, I want to listen to what I want and what’s in my heart.”

Kenny Omega Impact Wrestling Appearance Details

Steve Russell
-
0

Kenny Omega defeated Jon Moxley during this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite to become the new AEW World Champion. Omega secured the gold after assistance from Impact Wrestling’s Don Callis. He will now appear on next Tuesday’s episode of Impact Wrestling.

It turns out that Omega was not present for Impact Wrestling’s last set of tapings. The promotion has reportedly already pre-recorded their shows up until the end of 2020.

Mike Johnson of PWInsiderElite.com recently discussed the forthcoming appearance. He explained how “Kenny Omega was not at the last set of IMPACT Wrestling tapings, they are done, they have filmed all their TV for the year.”

“I was told that the plan is this coming week Don Callis and Kenny Omega will be filming something, I assume in Canada, I don’t know for sure, for IMPACT that will inserted into the TV show.”

Kenny Omega On Impact Wrestling

Don Callis revealed how wrestling fans will first hear from the new AEW World Champion on Impact Wrestling. Callis shared the news as he and Omega fled from Daily’s Place, the current resident home of AEW Dynamite at the end of Winter is Coming.

This was followed up by a tweet from Impact Wrestling’s official account. The message hyped Omega’s appearance, proclaiming that “Tuesdays are the new Wednesdays!“

AEW’s working relationship with Impact Wrestling adds to their pre-existing partnership with the National Wrestling Alliance.

Wardlow Talks WWE Tryout, Says “I’m a Wrestler. I’m Not an Entertainer.”

Michael Reichlin
-
0


Wardlow is the latest guest on the AEW Unrestricted podcast. The ‘muscle’ of Chris Jericho’s Inner Circle spoke to Aubrey Edwards and Tony Schiavone about his journey to AEW, his tryout with WWE and more.

Wardlow was introduced to AEW as the bodyguard of MJF. The 32-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio’s first match for the company took place on February 19th. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as he faced Cody Rhodes inside a steel cage. Wardlow says he has virtually no memory of that night, despite the effect it had to solidify him as a devastating force inside the ring.

“It’s like that whole evening and match is like a blackout. I don’t remember the entrance. The only thing I really remember is when I was standing in the ring, and Cody and I were squaring off when the bell rang.”

Wardlow’s WWE Tryout

Prior to joining AEW, Wardlow had a tryout for WWE. He believes he “smoked” the tryout and could not believe how unprofessional and disinterested some of the other participants were.

“I was literally the only dude there in a suit. It was mind blowing. Dudes are there in shorts and t-shirts. That’s because they’re not recruiting wrestlers. They’re recruiting ex-NFL athletes or college wrestlers, people that have never watched wrestling.”

He felt sick to his stomach knowing that some of these guys were getting multiple tryouts with WWE and didn’t even like the sport. Wardlow was so confident WWE would hire him that he sold his house, motorcycle and possessions expecting to move to Florida for training. He was floored when they decided against signing him.

“I’m Not An Entertainer”

Wardlow ultimately signed with All Elite Wrestling and hasn’t looked back. He knows exactly who he is and what he is capable of. He is still hovering in the background of MJF and Chris Jericho, but it’s only a matter of time before he takes center stage.

“Wrestling for me, you know, this is what I do. This is what I know. This is very real to me. When I get out there, I’m competing. I’m an athlete. I’m a wrestler. I’m not an entertainer. I’m not an artist. You know, when I’m out there, am I entertaining? Absolutely. Do I create art? Art of war, sure. I’ll create a painting with their blood.”

You can listen to Wardlow’s appearance on AEW Unrestricted at Omny.fm or in the player embedded below:

Update On AEW’s Efforts To Work With NJPW

Chris Stephens
-
0

AEW’s Winter is Coming show ended with Impact Wrestling executive Don Callis telling fans to tune into his show Tuesday night on AXS TV. According to a recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW is open to working with all wrestling companies right now and is still hoping to create a working relationship with New Japan Pro Wrestling.

“Khan has been speaking to Rocky Romero regularly of late to try and open doors to New Japan, feeling the odds are better to do something with Harold Meij gone,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

Earlier reports stated that Tony Khan was cautiously optimistic about what Harold Meij leaving NJPW would do for a potential working relationship.

“I’m not sure yet,” was Tony Khan’s reaction to Meij’s departure in the Wrestling Observer in October. “But my initial gut feeling is it could be good.”

Khan also spoke about wanting a relationship with New Japan during a media scrum after AEW Revolution.

“We all definitely watch a lot of New Japan in this room. I think they are a great company and a lot of my people have worked shows there and I have no problem with guys – as long as its not interfering on a regular basis with what we do on Wednesdays and with our PPVs, guys working there. That’s some of the flexibility we have. Can’t have it all the time but I think it’s been fine for me, it doesn’t really bother me.”

Triple H On Promotional Relationships: WWE Is ‘Open For Business’

Steve Russell
-
0

WWE’s Executive Vice President of Global Talent Strategy & Development Triple H has claimed WWE is “open for business” to potential promotional working relationships.

Triple H broached the subject during a recent media call to promote this Sunday’s NXT TakeOver: WarGames event. He explained how WWE is open to “the right business opportunities.”

Triple H Discusses People’s “Misperceptions”

Triple H noted how people have “misperceptions” on WWE’s attitudes towards promotional working relationships.

He added how “their perceived knowledge” of how WWE considers partnerships is often “greatly misinterpreted and not accurate.”

“Are we open to the right business opportunities? Yeah, at any given time we’re open to things. It just depends on what they are and if they’re beneficial to us in the long-term.”

Triple H explained how WWE’s definition of long-term doesn’t mean three months. According to him, WWE’s idea of long-term can be as long as ten years.

“Open for business, I think Vince says that a lot and I’ve been around him long enough that if it’s the right thing and meaningful to business, he’s open to anything.”

Working Relationships

Triple H’s comments come in the wake of AEW’s Winter is Coming. Following the main event, it was revealed that AEW had apparently developed a working relationship with Impact Wrestling.

This is in conjuncture with AEW’s already pre-existing working relationship with the National Wrestling Alliance.

Newly crowned AEW World Champion Kenny Omega will make an appearance on next Tuesday’s episode of Impact Wrestling.

The Young Bucks Discuss Sting’s AEW Debut

Steve Russell
-
0

All Elite Wrestling’s Young Bucks have opened up about Sting’s AEW debut on this week’s episode of Dynamite. The special episode, entitled Winter is Coming, saw the former WCW World Champion make his debut for the promotion.

Speaking with the Living the Gimmick podcast, The Young Bucks explained how Sting was hidden backstage throughout the day. When it came time for him to make his debut, Sting was accompanied by a member of Atlas Security.

He reportedly walked through the backstage area with an intense tunnel vision. Members of AEW’s staff and roster all turned their heads “like it was the Exorcist” to watch the Icon walk by.

The Young Bucks described the shock the AEW roster collectively experienced as Sting prepared to debut. According to the Young Bucks, it was a lot of fun to see the locker room have a “mark out” moment like that.

Witnessing the way the AEW talent reacted to Sting helped build their personal excitement for his on-screen reveal. This is because The Young Bucks were confident it would be an “even bigger moment on television.”

Sting debuted following a tag team matchup between Cody Rhodes and Darby Allin versus Team Taz’s Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs. Upon entering the ring, he stood face-to-face with Arn Anderson before leveling intense looks at Dustin Rhodes, Cody Rhodes, and, finally, Darby Allin.

Sting remained silent throughout his first appearance. He is set to speak for the first time on next week’s episode of AEW Dynamite.

speaks

The Young Bucks interview on the Living the Gimmick podcast drops next week, but you can listen early at the show’s Patreon page.

Young Bucks Talk About AEW Working With Impact & Other Companies

Michael Reichlin
-
0

Don Callis dropped a bombshell at the conclusion of this week’s AEW Dynamite. Kenny Omega’s first comments as new AEW World Champion will not take place on next week’s Dynamite, but on Tuesday’s edition of Impact Wrestling. It was a huge development that signals a working relationship between the two organizations. Wrestling fans are excited at the prospect of inter-promotional matches, especially in the women’s and tag team divisions.

AEW Executive Vice Presidents Nick and Matt Jackson have revealed interesting details about how the AEW-Impact situation came together. The Young Bucks spoke with Jon Alba and Doug McDonald this week for the Living The Gimmick Podcast. According to Matt, the working relationship has been in the works for nearly two years

“Two years ago, this is something Nick and I actually brought up and we wanted to get this going,” Matt said. “And for whatever reason, it just didn’t work out. I don’t know if that was more on our side or what, but we just couldn’t get everyone to agree on what the creative would be.”

This is something we’ve been whispering in Tony Khan’s ear for two years. So we’re all about collaboration and partnering with everyone and working together .. This is something that we truly wanted to do for a very, very long time. And I guess the timing was right and we got done.”

Collaborating With Other Promotions

In the lead-up to the launch of AEW, the Bucks made surprise appearances at independent wrestling shows across the United States. The All In pay-per-view was a “super show” of independent wrestling that showed the benefits of companies working together for a greater good. Matt thinks this attitude is “what wrestling needs” and will help AEW further transforming the landscape.

“I just think [working with other promotions] makes things unpredictable when you’re working with companies,” he said. “That’s what wrestling needs. It gets stuck in the same formula for so long it gets boring. It’s too easy to predict at times and you don’t want that to happen. So when you can make it different and change things up a bit, make it unpredictable, the fans like it more. It’s almost an easy formula when you explain it that way.”

Nick agrees that inter-promotional matches makes wrestling interesting. The entire industry benefits when companies ‘relax their borders’ to present the most compelling storylines and matches that are possible.

“This is a way to make things interesting, and if you do it right it can be very good for business,” said Nick. “We’ve done it, like Matt said earlier, it worked well when we’ve done it in the past.”

Both men talked about their feud with The Hardy Boyz doing massive business for Ring of Honor.

AEW & Impact Wrestling

So, what will a working relationship between AEW & Impact look like? Nick says it’s still so early, he doesn’t think they know exactly how things will play out. They’re dipping their toes in the water, but already have some big picture plans in place.

“There are immediate plans that I can’t exactly just give away right now. But my dream, if I had it my way, I just think about the possible dream matches. People are already hitting me up like, ‘Oh my god, can you imagine if it was the Young Bucks and the Motor City Machine Guns 10 years later?’ How can you not jump ahead and fantasize and fantasy book?”

AEW has the strongest tag team division in the world. In addition to established acts like the Young Bucks, FTR, the Lucha Bros. and Dark Order, they are still introducing exciting young talent, like Top Flight and The Acclaimed. The Bucks know fans are eager to see AEW’s top teams work The North, the Good Brothers and the Motor City Machine Guns. Matt once again hinted that there are some big surprises coming that fans are sure to enjoy.

“Are we going to do that stuff? I’m not sure yet, we’re still in the beginning of this. But there are some big surprises coming and I’m really excited about it,” Matt said.

The Young Bucks interview on the Living the Gimmick podcast drops next week, but you can listen early at the show’s Patreon page.

AEW Dynamite & NXT Viewership For December 2nd

Michael Reichlin
-
0

Sting’s AEW debut, Jon Moxley’s World title defense against Kenny Omega and the shocking conclusion of last night’s Dynamite helped Winter is Coming score a decisive win over WWE NXT. Here’s the breakdown, courtesy of PWTorch.com:

  • AEW: 913,000 viewers, 0.42 rating (Adults 18-49)
  • NXT: 658,000 viewers, 0.16 rating (Adults 18-49)

In the Men 18-34 demographic, AEW crushed NXT .29 to .04.

For comparison, Monday’s WWE Raw averaged 1,741,000 viewers and did a 0.53 rating in the key demo.

This week’s Impact Wrestling data is available this week, since they made the Top 150 shows on cable. Tuesday’s Impact on AXS-TV did 166,000 viewers with a 0.05 in the Adults 18-49 demographic. It ranked 121 on cable for the night.

With new AEW World Champion Kenny Omega appearing on Impact next week, it’s going to be interesting to see how much of a boost Impact gets from this appearance.

AEW President Tony Khan thanked the great fans who helped make the ‘biggest Dynamite of all time’ a viewership success.

Check out our results and takeaways from this week’s AEW and NXT:

1...1,0121,0131,014...3,409Page 1,013 of 3,409