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Kenny Omega Wins AEW Return Match, Attacked By Don Callis Family

Andrew Ravens
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Kenny Omega Wins AEW Return Match, Attacked By Don Callis Family

Kenny Omega made his highly anticipated return to AEW in-ring action on the January 15th episode of Dynamite, following a battle with diverticulitis and subsequent surgery. Omega defeated Brian Cage in the opening match with the One-Winged Angel, despite interference from The Don Callis Family.

The match incorporated storytelling around Omega’s health struggles, with Cage targeting his abdomen to highlight his past issues. After the match, the Don Callis Family jumped Omega, only for Will Ospreay to run down to make the save.

Omega helped Ospreay take out the heels before turning around and locking eyes with both guys, talking trash to each other. AEW International Champ Konosuke Takeshita came out to take out Omega. The numbers got the best of Omega and Ospreay. 

This marked Omega’s first AEW match since December 2023, when he defeated Ethan Page on Collision. While recovering from his health setbacks, Omega briefly re-entered the ring on January 5th at Wrestle Dynasty, defeating Gabe Kidd after executing a Kamigoye and the One-Winged Angel.

Omega’s return to AEW programming came earlier at Worlds End, where he presented the Continental Championship to Kazuchika Okada, the winner of the Continental Classic. The moment teased a potential future clash between Omega and Okada, possibly at All In: Texas.

NXT’s Jaida Parker Faces Backlash for Supporting Transgender Athlete Ban

Michael Reichlin
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NXT’s Jaida Parker Faces Backlash for Supporting Transgender Athlete Ban

NXT wrestler Jaida Parker is facing backlash after liking an Instagram post advocating for a ban on transgender athletes in women’s and girls’ sports at federally funded educational institutions.

The Instagram post from @Spiritualword highlighted the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the “Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.” This legislation seeks to bar transgender athletes, specifically those assigned male at birth, from competing in sports teams designated for women and girls under Title IX.

img 7052 1

The bill frames sex as determined by “reproductive biology and genetics at birth” when addressing athletic participation in schools and colleges receiving federal funding.

The reaction to Parker’s apparent support of the post has been largely negative, with fans and commentators divided over her perceived stance on the highly debated issue.

Jaida Parker addressed the situation in this reply:

The Rock to Rhea Ripley: “Thank You For Carrying The Company”

Michael Reichlin
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The Rock to Rhea Ripley: “Thank You For Carrying The Company”

Rhea Ripley received a major endorsement from none other than The Rock just before her big match at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere on January 6.

WWE’s YouTube channel released a video that gives fans a backstage look at the monumental event, featuring iconic personalities such as The Rock, Logan Paul, CM Punk, Paul Heyman, Triple H, and Stephanie McMahon.

A standout moment captured in the video showcases The Rock approaching Ripley as she prepared for her title match against Liv Morgan. After offering a warm hug, he told her,

“Sorry, I don’t want to bother you. I just want to say good luck, do your thing.

Thank you for everything you do. Thank you for carrying the company.”

The Rock to Rhea Ripley (Backstage at WWE Raw Netflix Debut – 1/6/25)

The heartfelt compliment left Ripley visibly moved. As a legendary performer and executive of WWE’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings, The Rock’s endorsement carries a lot weight. After the encounter, Ripley went to the ring and delivered a stellar performance, reclaiming her WWE Women’s Championship from Liv Morgan.

The moment underscored the respect she commands from both WWE’s past and present, further cementing her status as one of the company’s premier talents. For fans, this behind-the-scenes footage provides a rare glimpse into the camaraderie and respect shared by WWE’s stars, both in and out of the ring.

Logan Paul Envisions John Cena Greeting People at the Gates of Heaven

Michael Reichlin
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Logan Paul Envisions John Cena Greeting People at the Gates of Heaven

WWE Shares Behind-the-Scenes Footage from Netflix Premiere, Logan Paul Talks John Cena and The Rock

In a new video released on WWE’s YouTube channel, behind-the-scenes moments from the Netflix premiere of WWE RAW were showcased, featuring appearances by top stars. One highlight came when Logan Paul shared his admiration for John Cena and made bold comments about potential future matches.

Speaking about Cena’s presence at the event, Paul praised the 16-time world champion.

“Bro, John Cena is the best guy in the world, actually. He’s a guy who everyone meets and says, ‘That guy is the best guy in the world.’

If I go to heaven, God willing, I’m pretty sure John Cena will be there like, ‘Come on, buddy! Welcome to the club.’”

Logan Paul envisions John Cena welcoming him into the gates of heaven

Logan Paul vs. John Cena

When asked about the possibility of facing Cena in the ring, Paul expressed his respect but suggested he wanted a greater challenge.

“I think I’d hurt John, to be honest with you,” Paul said. “If I get in the ring with him, it’d be an honor. But I’m tired of beating up these legends, to be honest with you. I beat up on Roman.

I beat up on Cody. If I gotta beat up on John, I’ll do it, but I’d prefer a challenge, bro.”

The social media star-turned-WWE competitor also took a jab at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, calling him the ultimate opponent. “Talk about Dwayne Johnson here, Final Boss? I’m the new boss. There’s a new man in town, bro, and his name’s Logan Paul.”

Paul’s comments, mixing confidence and reverence, continue to stir speculation about potential blockbuster matches, including showdowns with WWE legends like Cena or even The Rock.

AEW Presents ‘Maximum Carnage’ Dynamite Tonight from Cincinnati

Michael Reichlin
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AEW Presents ‘Maximum Carnage’ Dynamite Tonight from Cincinnati

AEW Dynamite kicks off its two-part Maximum Carnage event tonight, broadcasting live from the Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, at 8 PM ET on TBS. Fans can expect a night packed with high-stakes matches, long-awaited returns, and exciting developments in AEW storylines.

AEW Dynamite Preview (January 15, 2025)

Confirmed Matches and Segments for Tonight’s AEW Dynamite:

AEW World Championship Match: Jon Moxley defends his AEW World Championship against Powerhouse Hobbs in his hometown. This clash revisits their intense rivalry, which peaked in 2024 during a battle for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, where Moxley triumphed.

Kenny Omega vs. Brian Cage: Kenny Omega returns to AEW after more than a year to face Brian Cage. This grudge match stems from Cage’s recent ambush attempt on Omega, thwarted by Will Ospreay. Will Omega’s return mark a triumphant new chapter, or will Cage spoil his comeback?

Christian Cage vs. HOOK: HOOK steps into the ring with Christian Cage in a long-anticipated singles match. This bout comes after months of animosity, including Christian’s shocking revelation as Taz’s attacker alongside The Patriarchy. HOOK aims for retribution against the cunning veteran.

Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match: The first-ever Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match will determine Mariah May’s challenger for the AEW Women’s Championship at Grand Slam Australia next month. Kris Statlander, fresh off a January 8th victory, starts the match as the first entrant. Who will outlast the competition?

Six-Man Tag Team Match: The Hurt Syndicate (MVP, Bobby Lashley, and Shelton Benjamin) debut as a trio, taking on Mark Briscoe and AEW Tag Team Champions Private Party (Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen). This encounter could mark the start of the Hurt Syndicate’s quest for tag team gold.

Special Appearance: Ricochet is scheduled to appear live, though his role remains under wraps. Fans are speculating about his potential impact on tonight’s proceedings.

Maximum Carnage continues tomorrow night on January 16, 2025. Tune in tonight on TBS or stream on Max for all the action and surprises AEW Dynamite has in store.

Stay connected to SEScoops for the latest updates and analysis from Cincinnati.

AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage

Charlotte Flair Backstage at NXT: What It Means For Her WWE Return

Michael Reichlin
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Charlotte Flair Backstage at NXT: What It Means For Her WWE Return

WWE Superstar Charlotte Flair was backstage during Tuesday’s WWE NXT television broadcast at the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

Flair has been absent from WWE television since December 2023 due to a severe knee injury. She sustained the injury during a match against Asuka on the December 8, 2023, episode of SmackDown, where she tore her ACL, MCL, and meniscus.

Following surgery in January 2024, Flair has been focused on rehabilitation and has shared her recovery journey with fans through social media, often posting training videos and photos.

The 14-time World Champion shared a photo on social media alongside NXT Tag Team Champions Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend, captioned,

“Some girls want to be a princess when they grow up, I wanted to be in a bad b**ch girl gang.”

Charlotte Flair

This caption has sparked speculation among fans about the possibility of Flair leading a faction upon her return to WWE television. While Flair is widely recognized as a standout singles competitor, she was part of a faction during her early days in NXT over a decade ago.

Most wrestling fans know about the (unofficial) Four Horsewomen, but real ones remember the Beautiful, Fierce Females. In November 2013, Charlotte joined The BFFs alongside Sasha Banks and Summer Rae, turning heel after attacking her former tag team partner, Bayley. The BFFs became one of NXT’s most successful factions before disbanding when Summer Rae was called up to the main roster.

Though WWE has not officially announced when Charlotte Flair will return to television, her appearance at this week’s NXT broadcast suggests her return is imminent.

Ethan Page Thrives in NXT: A Brand Run by Wrestlers

Michael Reichlin
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Ethan Page Thrives in NXT: A Brand Run by Wrestlers

Ethan Page’s transition to NXT has marked a significant turning point in his career, with the wrestler not only capturing the NXT Championship but also sharing the spotlight with The Rock in a backstage segment. This new chapter comes after a period of limited opportunities in AEW, where Page saw minimal TV time before moving to ROH. There, he engaged in a prolonged feud with Tony Nese but eventually found himself off television once more.

In an appearance on Busted Open After Dark with Bully Ray, Page shed light on the difference in how he has been utilized in NXT versus AEW. When asked why AEW failed to capitalize on his potential while NXT has embraced him, Page attributed it to the leadership.

“This company is run by wrestlers.”

Ethan Page on NXT

Highlighting the wrestler-centric approach in NXT. Elaborating further, Page explained,

“[AEW] didn’t know what they had, and now they do. I’m gone. These guys have me. They have the ability to do whatever it is that they want, and they have chosen to open a door for Ethan Page to absolutely kick wide open.”

Ethan Page

Since joining NXT, Page has showcased his talent in high-profile matches, defeating notable opponents like Je’Von Evans, Cedric Alexander, and Dante Chen. His performances have not only elevated his status but also brought a new energy to the NXT roster, with Page visibly thriving in his new environment.


“Busted Open After Dark” is the late-night wrestling podcast, where Dave LaGreca and his rotating co-hosts dive deep into the hottest topics and biggest moments in pro wrestling.

Ethan Page’s NXT Championship Reign

Ethan Page’s reign as NXT Champion stands out as one of the most remarkable in the brand’s history due to its rapid ascent, record-breaking achievements, and notable title defenses.

Page captured the championship on July 7, 2024, at NXT Heatwave, emerging victorious in a fatal four-way match against Trick Williams, Je’Von Evans, and Shawn Spears. The match ended dramatically when Page secured the pinfall on Evans after inadvertently landing on him following Williams’ Trick Shot finisher. This victory made history, as Page clinched the NXT Championship a mere 40 days after his debut, the fastest climb to the title in the brand’s history.

Throughout his 86-day reign, which lasted until October 1, 2024, Page successfully defended the championship against formidable competitors such as Dante Chen, Oro Mensah, and Joe Hendry. His reign concluded during NXT’s premiere on The CW Network, where he dropped the title back to Trick Williams in a highly anticipated rematch, with CM Punk serving as the special guest referee.

Tony Schiavone Explains Absence from AEW Dynamite Amid Suspension Rumors

Michael Reichlin
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Tony Schiavone Explains Absence from AEW Dynamite Amid Suspension Rumors

Tony Schiavone has addressed his recent absence from AEW Dynamite, which had fueled fan speculation about a potential suspension following a social media incident involving NJPW announcer Chris Charlton.

During the January 8 episode of Dynamite, Schiavone was notably missing from the commentary desk. Excalibur was joined by Matt Menard and Ian Riccaboni instead. This absence came after a contentious week in wrestling circles, as Charlton was reportedly suspended for calling Tony Khan a “money mark” and criticizing AEW’s booking of NJPW stars like Jay White, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay.

Schiavone defend TK on social media, posting a sharp response telling Charlton to “GFY” and suggesting he shower more often.

The post was quickly deleted, but the timing of Schiavone’s disappearance led to rumors that he had been disciplined for his remarks.

Why Has Tony Schiavone Been Off AEW TV?

Schiavone addressed the situation on his What Happened When podcast, explaining that his absence was due to a family matter. Adding his trademark humor, he playfully dismissed the rumors. Schiavone shared that his wife had undergone hip surgery and was discharged from the hospital the same day as Dynamite. In his characteristic joking style, he quipped about prioritizing work over family:

“As a matter of fact, she got out of the hospital on Wednesday, so I just let her walk home from the hospital instead of picking her up, and I went to TV and got suspended. But she made it home about six hours later with her walker on 285 in Atlanta.”

Tony Schiavone explains his absense from AEW

Schiavone’s clarification ends speculation about any disciplinary action, confirming that his absence was entirely unrelated to backstage drama. The veteran announcer continues to manage his personal commitments alongside his role at AEW.

“What Happened When” is a comedy-packed retro wrestling podcast hosted by Tony Schiavone and Conrad Thompson. Catch new episodes every Wednesday at 6 a.m. ET on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or the Cumulus Podcast Network.

Chelsea Green Feels Safe, Supported & Equal In Triple H’s WWE

Thomas Lowson
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Chelsea Green Feels Safe, Supported & Equal In Triple H’s WWE

Chelsea Green is pleased to see the steps WWE has taken to promote equality among its male and female rosters, and believes Triple H has played a large role in facilitating that change. Speaking to the Sports Agents, Green acknowledged the efforts of WWE’s Chief Content Officer.

“I love my job. I feel safe, I feel supported. Triple H makes women specifically feel absolutely equal to men. Thats why I love to come to work. That’s why I feel so supported.”

Green highlighted just some of the changes, including women headling WrestleMania twice, a feat that would not have seemed possible in previous eras. While Green is pleased that things have progressed, she made sure to reflect on those who paved the way.

“We would not be here without that side of things. We in 2025 would not have the success we had if not for the Attitude Era.”

Green recently made history by becoming the first-ever Women’s U.S. Champion at WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event, another step in the ongoing journey toward gender equality in professional wrestling. More recently, WWE crowned its inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion, Lyra Valkyria. Additionally, the eighth annual Women’s Royal Rumble match is set to take place next month, further showcasing the company’s commitment to elevating its women’s division.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE and its changes as the company’s approach to women continues to adapt in this post-Vince McMahon era of the promotion.

For the use of quotes, please h/t SEScoops.

Chelsea Green Open to Rematch With Penta In WWE: “Never Say Never”

Thomas Lowson
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Chelsea Green Open to Rematch With Penta In WWE: “Never Say Never”

Chelsea Green isn’t ruling out a rematch with WWE’s newest arrival, Penta, following the AEW alum’s debut on this week’s Monday Night Raw. In an interview with Cultaholic, Green was asked about the possibility of stepping back into the ring with Penta.

“Well look, never say never as Justin Bieber once said. Never say never. However, that was one of the craziest matches I’ve ever had in my entire entire life.”

– Chelsea Green on wrestling Penta again in WWE (Cultaholic)

The match in question occurred during their time in Lucha Underground, where Green competed as Reklusa. During Penta’s match with Chad Gable on Raw, commentator Michael Cole referenced the masked star’s history in the lucha-based promotion.

Chelsea Green vs. Penta (Lucha Underground)

Green “owes everything” to Penta for the match they had, as he “held my hand and wrestled me through that 15-minute match.” Even years later, the match is brought up by fans, demonstrating how significant the contest was for the reigning WWE Women’s United States Champion.

“It’s really interesting to see it kind of keep popping up and making a resurgence. Now that Penta’s with WWE I can’t wait to beat him up.”

While Green seems eager for a rematch, WWE’s stance on intergender wrestling could pose challenges. Historically, WWE’s intergender bouts often feature a weak or cowardly male wrestler being easily overpowered by their female counterpart. With Penta’s impressive debut on Raw, WWE is clearly positioning him as a dominant star, making a comedic match with Green unlikely.

Penta Arrives: Meet WWE’s New Dark Luchador

Jonathan Coachman On Corey Graves: ‘It Happens, Playing Nice Might Help’

Thomas Lowson
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Jonathan Coachman On Corey Graves: ‘It Happens, Playing Nice Might Help’

Corey Graves recently sparked discussion on X after voicing his frustration over being moved from WWE’s main roster commentary team to NXT. In his post, Graves took issue at “not being famous enough for your own job,” in what many have seen at a dig at Pat McAfee and Joe Tessitore.

Former WWE commentator Jonathan Coachman weighed in on X with a post of his own. Coachman, who held many roles in WWE, including as a commentator, suggested that Graves could have handled things better and ‘played nice’ with others.

“So Corey is upset for being bumped from the main announce roster. Happened to JR 5 times. Happened to Cole multiple times. Happened to me multiple times. He is right, he is really good at his job. But playing in the sandbox a little bit better might not hurt next time. Embrace whatever role you have and understand that you are lucky to have it. There are only 3-5 of these jobs at the highest level. Who knows, maybe they asked him to be a part of a 3-man booth. We know he doesn’t like that. Lol. Sorry had to. Last line a joke. The rest, it’s the wrestling business. It happens.”

Following his outburst, Graves teased that he’d have plenty more to say on this week’s WWE NXT though that didn’t transpire. Instead, Graves was seen heading to Orlando aiport and this week’s edition of the silver brand went ahead without the veteran broadcaster. Stay tuned to SEScoops as the situation with Graves continues to develop, even with his on-screen future currently unclear.

Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

John Cena Explains Importance Of His Super Cena Era

Anutosh Bajpai
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John Cena Explains Importance Of His Super Cena Era

John Cena has explained the importance of his super Cena run.

At the height of his WWE run, The Cenation leader was defeating opponents left and right. Despite not having a strong showing through the match John would end up winning all the major contests. A lot of the hardcore fans detested the fact that the end goal for any talents the company pushed at the time was to put over the 16-time world champion. Most of them got lost in the shuffle afterward as the creative didn’t really have any solid direction for them.

The wrestling veteran talked about this period of his career in a new interview with Collider while promoting his upcoming project What Drives You.

Being a 16-time world champion means Cena also lost the world title 16 times and he expressed the importance of his losses in elevating other talents and surprising fans. When asked which losses meant the most to him as a storyteller, John picked three from different periods of his career:

“Some of the ones that come to mind are certainly The Rock in Miami (at WrestleMania 28) was a fantastic loss; Kevin Owens’ debut (at Elimination Chamber 2015) was another great one that I thought was a really fun one; Rob Van Dam at Hammerstein Ballroom (at ECW One Night Stand in 2006). Anytime you can surprise people.”

Sometimes You Got To Win A Lot: John Cena

Whenever Cena defied the odds and picked up another big victory, hardcore fans took to social media to vent their frustrations. The phrase ‘Cena Wins LOL’ became a synonym to everything the fans hated about his run.

During the interview, the Peacemaker star admitted that this was one of the ‘biggest hang-ups’ of his career. Though John Cena explained that his wins were important because he was in it for the ‘long haul’ and it made his losses that much more impactful:

“The way you make those losses impactful is sometimes you’ve got to win, and sometimes you’ve got to win a lot. Any time you can pass energy on to somebody, that’s kind of the life cycle of the business.

You come in an unknown and, hopefully, you get the flywheel spinning, you create all this energy on your way out, you pay it forward, you pass it off.”

John Cena kicked off his retirement tour by announcing his Royal Rumble entry at Raw’s Netflix premiere. You can check out the reported WrestleMania 41 plans for the wrestling veteran here.

Kevin Nash Questions if WWE Intended For Fans To Boo Hulk Hogan

Thomas Lowson
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Kevin Nash Questions if WWE Intended For Fans To Boo Hulk Hogan

Kevin Nash couldn’t help but feel bad for Hulk Hogan, and has questioned if the frosty reception he received was WWE’s plan all along. Taking to his Kliq This podcast, Nash admitted his surprise at the response the LA crowd gave the Hulkster.

“I did not think that they would s*** on him. Because the last time he came out was a couple years ago, and he blew the roof off.”

Nash questioned if Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque was aware of the response Hogan would receive, and went ahead with it anyway. Nash, who like Hogan is a two-time WWE Hall of Famer, pointed out that the response to Hogan received mainstream attention and that “Nothing got more coverage than Hulk being booed.”

“Who’s to say that they weren’t smart enough to know that that’s exactly what they were going to get?”

Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

Kevin Nash felt bad for Hogan, though not just for the response he received. On the podcast, Nash shared his knowledge about the health issues of the Hulkster, who was noticeably limping in the Intuit Dome.

“Hulk is beat to f***… I know he’s in pain like a motherf******. I watched it. I felt bad for him. But at the same time for him, it’s like, man, I’d rather get a response than none.”

Hogan will reportedly be a part of this month’s WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event show, where he hopes to receive a warmer welcome by the crowd in San Antonio, Texas, a state that like Hogan, backed Donald Trump in last November’s election. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on the Hulk Hogan, who continues to make an impression with fans, both positive and negative.

Bully Ray Impressed By Penta’s WWE Debut: ‘This Is How You Do It’

Anutosh Bajpai
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Bully Ray Impressed By Penta’s WWE Debut: ‘This Is How You Do It’

Bully Ray was very impressed by Penta’s WWE debut.

The company had originally teased the Luchador debuting in a tag team match with Rey Mysterio against New Day at Raw’s Netflix premiere. The officials, however, changed the plans at the last minute.

Putting him in a singles match against Chad Gable on the second week of Raw on Netflix instead allowed Penta’s debut to stand out. The change of plans paid out in the form of the whole segment becoming a huge viral topic on the internet.

The Hardcore Veteran discussed the effort WWE put in the former AEW star’s debut on the latest Busted Open. Bully Ray praised all aspects of Penta’s presentation, saying that the company captured lightning in a bottle with it:

“The way he was presented, the worst kept secret, the merchandise, having the masks ready to go. The entrance, the music, the pyro, the allowing him to take his time to get to the ring, the match time, the finish, the promo afterwards. The WWE told the entire world, ‘This is Penta. We’re giving him all the time he needs to get over on this night.’ WWE Universe, welcome Penta, Yada, Yada, Yada.

And oh, by the way, dear rest of the wrestling world, this is how it’s done. Do not underestimate the WWE telling the rest of the world, including one company in particular, this is how you do it. This is how you get somebody, right. This is how you help capture somebody’s lightning in a bottle in all aspects of their character, not just the moves.”

Bully Ray also said that Penta reminds him of both Rey Mysterio and LA Parka because he can not only do the high-flying moves but he is also a very entertaining star.

The ECW original wasn’t the only one who was impressed by Penta’s arrival. Both Rey Mysterio and Rey Fenix also praised his first showing in WWE. You can check out the latter’s reaction here.

TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich Makes Surprise NXT Appearance

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich Makes Surprise NXT Appearance

It appears that the TNA-NXT partnership is about to resume.

2024 saw the two brands surprising the wrestling world with a lengthy partnership. This resulted in a number of big names crossing over the ‘Forbidden Door’ and making appearances at the other show, including talents such as Jordynne Grace, Joe Hendry, and Arianna Grace.

Things had cooled down in recent weeks however as WWE got busy trying to adjust to the new TV deals with all three of their brands finding new homes.

Though the latest episode of NXT signaled a change in this status, with a surprise on-screen appearance from the new TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich:

Slamovich won the title from Jordynne Grace at Bound For Glory in October. She was not only shown in the crowd during the January 14 show but the commentators also mentioned her upcoming title defence against Rosemary at TNA Genesis on January 19.

If past events are any indication, we can assume that Slamovich won’t be the only name to cross over and there will be more surprise appearances from both sides in coming times.

With the WWE Royal Rumble fast approaching, this appearance is sure to ignite rumors about potential TNA entries into the Rumble. It’d be interesting to see if any current TNA champions continue the tradition of Rumble appearances at the February 1 show.

Watch: Bayley Brawls Roxanne Perez In Surprise NXT Return

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Watch: Bayley Brawls Roxanne Perez In Surprise NXT Return

Bayley has returned to NXT.

The January 14 episode of the Black & Silver show featured Roxanne Perez in the main event. The former NXT Women’s Champion talked about her title loss to Giulia at last week’s episode of the show and claimed that NXT did not deserve her.

This is when Bayley’s music hit and the main roster star came out to confront the 23-year-old. She tried to advise Perez on her future but the developmental star said that she didn’t ask for advice.

The two women then went back and forth on the mic talking about Bayley’s achievements in NXT. Roxanne finally lost her cool when Bayley referenced Cora Jade helping her retain her title before. The NXT star ended up attacking the Horsewoman and the two stars brawled as the episode went off air.

Bayley is set to challenge Tiffany Stratton for the Women’s Championship on this Friday’s SmackDown. After this bout was brought up in the promo today, it’s extremely likely that Perez will make her presence felt on the Blue Branded Show this week.

The announced ‘Transfer Window’ between all three of WWE’s brands is still open and it’d be interesting to see if this rivalry proves to be the catalyst for Perez’s move to the main roster.

Tom Pestock Faces Josh Barnett in GCW Debut at The People vs. GCW (1/19)

Michael Reichlin
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Tom Pestock Faces Josh Barnett in GCW Debut at The People vs. GCW (1/19)

Tom Pestock, formerly known as Baron Corbin in WWE, is set to make his GCW debut against Josh “The Warmaster” Barnett in a Bloodsport rules match at The People vs. GCW on January 19, 2025, at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.

This match marks Pestock’s first appearance since leaving WWE in November 2024. Known for his impressive combat sports background, Pestock recently captured gold at the IBJJF Tampa International Jiu-Jitsu Tournament and holds accolades as a Golden Gloves boxing champion.

His opponent, Josh Barnett, is a seasoned combat sports veteran, boasting a resume that includes being a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and an accomplished catch wrestler.

In addition to Pestock vs. Barnett, The People vs. GCW features:

  • GCW World Title Match: Mance Warner (c) vs. Winner of Effy/Allie Katch
  • GCW Tag Team Title Match: Violence Is Forever vs. Gahbage Daddies
  • El Hijo del Vikingo vs. Sidney Akeem
IMG 1904

Corey Graves NXT Appearance Canceled: “Not a Work”

Michael Reichlin
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WWE broadcaster Corey Graves will no longer appear on tonight’s episode of NXT to address recent frustrations, as he had announced.

Graves took to social media last night, expressing anger over being told he wasn’t “famous enough” to join the new Raw and SmackDown broadcast teams. Following the post, he claimed he would clear the air during tonight’s NXT.

However, PWInsider reports that Graves was seen boarding a flight at Orlando Airport on Tuesday afternoon and will not be present for the broadcast. Sources indicate that Graves felt genuinely insulted by being relegated to the NXT commentary team as the ‘third wheel’ alongside Vic Joseph and Booker T.

Adding legitimacy to the situation, Graves’ brother, Sam Adonis, confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the matter is “not a work,” suggesting it’s not part of a WWE storyline.

https://twitter.com/realsamadonis/status/1879220916523336173?s=46

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

Michael Reichlin
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Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

There’s growing speculation that Corey Graves, the former NXT Tag Team Champion turned WWE commentator, may be preparing to step back into the ring. Graves, who was forced to retire from wrestling in 2014 due to a series of concussions, hinted at having “a lot to say” on tonight’s episode of WWE NXT, sparking excitement among fans about his potential future in professional wrestling.

From the Ring to the Announce Table

Graves retired in December 2014 following NXT TakeOver: R Evolution, marking the end of a promising in-ring career cut short by medical concerns. Despite the setback, he transitioned seamlessly into commentary, quickly becoming one of WWE’s most prominent voices. Over the years, Graves has lent his sharp wit and insight to Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and countless premium live events, cementing his place as a cornerstone of WWE broadcasting.

Corey Graves and Michael Cole on commentary
WWE tapped Corey Graves and Michael Cole when WWE SmackDown moved to FOX

Frustration in His Current Role

On Monday night, Graves expressed frustration on social media, revealing his disappointment over being sidelined from WWE’s main commentary teams on Raw and SmackDown. In a pointed message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Graves wrote:

“Imagine chasing your dream. Then being TOLD (not deciding) that you’re no longer physically able to pursue your dream. Then you dedicate your life to something ‘dream adjacent’ and being pretty awesome at it. And then, when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, being told you’re not famous enough for your own job.”

Corey Graves

His candid remarks have fueled speculation about a possible return to active competition, especially given that he received medical clearance to wrestle again in 2022.

A Precedent for Comebacks

Bryan Danielson
Bryan Danielson returned to wrestling after several years on the sidelines due to concussions

Graves wouldn’t be the first WWE superstar to defy the odds and return to the ring after a career-ending injury. Bryan Danielson, Edge, and Christian Cage—each sidelined by serious injuries, including concussion-related issues—successfully made their way back to competition after years away, thanks to advancements in medical science. With his prior clearance and years of experience, Graves could follow in their footsteps.

What to Expect Tonight

Graves has previously expressed interest in dream matchups with some of WWE’s biggest names, including Seth Rollins and CM Punk. Both were pivotal figures in his early career, and potential showdowns with either would make for compelling storytelling and fanfare.

As fans eagerly await WWE NXT, many are speculating that Graves will shed light on his plans. Whether it’s a return to in-ring competition, a shakeup in his current role, or simply a response to recent frustrations, tonight’s episode promises to be must-see television.

Will Corey Graves make a comeback after nearly a decade away from active competition? Tune in to WWE NXT to find out what’s next for the former champion turned commentator.

Wrestler with Most Eliminations from Every WWE Royal Rumble from 1988 to 2024

Jake Skudder
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Wrestler with Most Eliminations from Every WWE Royal Rumble from 1988 to 2024

The WWE Royal Rumble is one of the most iconic annual events in wrestling, featuring over-the-top-rope eliminations. Each Rumble showcases standout performers who dominate the match with record-breaking eliminations.

Here’s a comprehensive year-by-year breakdown of the wrestlers who achieved the most eliminations in every WWE Royal Rumble from 1988 to 2024.

What is the Royal Rumble Match?

The Royal Rumble, created by WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson, debuted in 1988. This event sees 30 participants enter the ring at timed intervals.

Wrestlers are eliminated by being thrown over the top rope, with both feet hitting the floor. The last competitor standing wins and, since 1993, earns a title match at WrestleMania.

1988-1999: The Early Years

  • 1988: One Man Gang (6 eliminations)
  • 1989: Hulk Hogan (10 eliminations)
  • 1990: Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior (6 eliminations)
  • 1991: Hulk Hogan (7 eliminations)
  • 1992: Sid Justice (6 eliminations)
  • 1993: Yokozuna (7 eliminations)
  • 1994: Diesel (7 eliminations)
  • 1995: Shawn Michaels (8 eliminations)
  • 1996: Shawn Michaels (8 eliminations)
  • 1997: Steve Austin (10 eliminations)
  • 1998: Steve Austin (7 eliminations)
  • 1999: Steve Austin (8 eliminations)

The 1990s solidified the Royal Rumble as a staple event, with stars like Diesel (1994) and Kane (1999) making their mark.

2000–2009: Rise of the Powerhouses

  • 2000: Rikishi (7 eliminations)
  • 2001: Kane (11 eliminations)
  • 2002: Steve Austin & The Undertaker (7 eliminations each)
  • 2003: Chris Jericho (6 eliminations)
  • 2004: Chris Benoit (6 eliminations)
  • 2005: Batista (6 eliminations)
  • 2006: Rey Mysterio & Triple H (6 eliminations each)
  • 2007: The Great Khali (7 eliminations)
  • 2008: Triple H (6 eliminations)
  • 2009: Big Show & Triple H (6 eliminations each)

2010–2019: The PG Era

  • 2010: Shawn Michaels (6 eliminations)
  • 2011: CM Punk & John Cena (7 eliminations each)
  • 2012: Cody Rhodes (6 eliminations)
  • 2013: Ryback & Sheamus (5 eliminations each)
  • 2014: Roman Reigns (12 eliminations)
  • 2015: Bray Wyatt (7 eliminations)
  • 2016: Braun Strowman & Roman Reigns (5 eliminations each)
  • 2017: Braun Strowman (7 eliminations)
  • 2018 (Men): Finn Balor & Roman Reigns (4 eliminations each)
  • 2018 (Greatest Royal Rumble): Braun Strowman (13 eliminations)
  • 2019: Braun Strowman (5 eliminations)

The era highlighted emerging stars like Seth Rollins (2019) and the endurance of veterans like Randy Orton (2017).

2020–2024: Recent Dominance

  • 2020: Brock Lesnar bulldozed through the competition with an awe-inspiring 13 eliminations.
  • 2023: Gunther and Cody Rhodes each scored 5 eliminations, showcasing a new generation of wrestlers.
  • 2024: Bron Breakker and Cody Rhodes dominated the men’s match in 2024 with 4 eliminations each.

This era reflects WWE’s dedication to elevating fresh talent while keeping legends in the mix.

Key Trends in Rumble History

Over the years, the Royal Rumble has highlighted consistent patterns:

  • Dominant big men like Kane, Braun Strowman, and Brock Lesnar excel in eliminations.
  • Multi-time Rumble participants like Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels leave lasting legacies.
  • Recent matches show greater parity, with multiple stars achieving elimination milestones.

Chelsea Green and Tessa Blanchard Controversy Explained: The Full Story

Jake Skudder
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Chelsea Green and Tessa Blanchard Controversy Explained: The Full Story

The professional wrestling world has been abuzz with the ongoing controversy surrounding Tessa Blanchard and the recent comments made by WWE star Chelsea Green.

This long-standing dispute has its roots in allegations of bullying and racism that surfaced in early 2020, leading to significant career setbacks for Blanchard and sparking a broader conversation about accountability in the wrestling industry.

Read More – Chelsea Green Hits Out At “Racist Bully” Tessa Blanchard

The Rise and Fall of Tessa Blanchard

Tessa Blanchard was once considered a rising star in professional wrestling. In January 2020, she reached a career milestone by becoming the first woman to capture the IMPACT World Championship. However, her ascent was abruptly halted when several female wrestlers accused her of bullying and racist behavior behind the scenes.

These allegations led to severe consequences for Blanchard:

  • She was stripped of her IMPACT World Championship title
  • IMPACT Wrestling (formerly TNA) terminated her contract
  • Major wrestling promotions distanced themselves from her

In a recent interview with Straight Talk Wrestling, Blanchard opened up about the personal struggles she faced during this tumultuous period. She revealed that there were days when she “didn’t even have the strength to live” and would spend entire days in bed. The sudden loss of career opportunities and the public scrutiny took a significant toll on her mental health.

Chelsea Green’s Response and Call for Accountability

WWE superstar Chelsea Green, who was among those who initially accused Blanchard of bullying, responded to Blanchard’s interview. Green acknowledged the severity of Blanchard’s struggles but emphasized the importance of accountability.

Green stated on social media: “I don’t wish self-harm or thoughts of suicide on anyone and hope she has found peace. However, a simple ‘I am sorry’ goes a long way. We haven’t heard that yet. Accountability matters, and a redemption tour of interviews won’t erase the actions of an egotistical bully.”

The Original Allegations and Industry Reaction

The controversy began in January 2020 when Blanchard posted a message on Twitter about female wrestlers supporting one another. This prompted several wrestlers to come forward with accusations:

These allegations significantly impacted Blanchard’s career trajectory. From being courted by major promotions with lucrative contract offers, she suddenly found herself without opportunities in top-tier wrestling companies.

Blanchard’s Perspective and Lack of Apology

In her recent interviews, Blanchard has focused on her personal growth and the challenges she faced. She stated that she wouldn’t change anything about her career path, as it has made her the person and wrestler she is today

However, many in the wrestling community, including Chelsea Green, have noted that Blanchard has yet to offer a clear apology for her alleged actions. This lack of accountability has been a sticking point for those seeking resolution to the controversy.

The Future for Blanchard and Lessons for the Industry

As of 2025, Tessa Blanchard continues to wrestle, having recently returned to TNA in a high-profile programme with Jordynne Grace.

While she hasn’t regained the prominence she once had in larger U.S.-based companies, her story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of professional conduct and the potential consequences of one’s actions in the wrestling industry.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding this controversy highlights the wrestling community’s evolving standards regarding behavior, accountability, and the path to redemption for those who have faced serious allegations.

WWE 2K25 Roster: Confirmed Superstars, DLC, and Screenshots

Michael Reichlin
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WWE 2K25 Roster: Confirmed Superstars, DLC, and Screenshots

WWE 2K25, the upcoming installment in the popular wrestling video game series, is set to feature an extensive roster of current WWE superstars and legends. While the full roster has not yet been officially revealed, several key wrestlers have been confirmed for the game.

This article will be updated when additional information is available, expected January 28.

Confirmed Roster

The following characters have been officially announced for WWE 2K25:

Active Superstars

  • Bayley
  • CM Punk
  • Cody Rhodes
  • Damian Priest
  • Liv Morgan
  • Roman Reigns

Managers

  • Paul Heyman (Manager)

First WWE 2K25 Screenshots

WWE 2K25 Roster: Bayley
WWE 2K25 Roster: Cody Rhodes
WWE 2K25 Roster: Liv Morgan
WWE 2K25 Roster: CM Punk
WWE 2K25 Roster: Damian Priest

DLC Plans

While specific DLC plans have not been announced, WWE 2K25 is likely to follow the pattern of previous installments by offering additional wrestlers and legends as downloadable content throughout the year.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for our ongoing coverage of WWE 2K25 in the lead-up to the game’s official releases.

Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

Michael Reichlin
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Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

Controversial professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan is in a celebratory mood one week after getting booed out of the Intuit Dome at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere.

Hogan appeared on Jesse Watters Primetime on FOX News last night to share his thoughts on the state of the country and his excitement for Donald Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Hogan pounded a beer and declared, “We’re already celebrating the inauguration, even before it happens because we know we’re getting our country back!”

According to Hogan, it now feels like a “dark cloud” has been lifted since Trump’s re-election. He says the “whiners and criers” brought the United States to the brink of destruction, but things will get back on track, jack, next week when Trump is inaugurated. When pressed about his plans for the event, Hogan replied:

“Well, there’s a little birdie that says I might just be there pulling a few shenanigans, brother.”

“I’ve got my ‘Trump Pump’ back on and I’m gonna be ridin’ dirty all the way to that inauguration. I cannot wait for him to be sworn in, brother!

It’s a new day, it’s a new country, and we’re gonna make America great again because we’ve got a real American President, brother!”

Hulk Hogan teases attending Donald Trump’s Second United States Presidential Inauguration

The 60th Presidential Inauguration is set to take place on Monday, January 20th, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Mark Henry Claims Hulk Hogan’s Made No Effort to Address Racist Comments

Catch Hulk Hogan’s appearance on Jesse Watters Live (January 13, 2025):

New Era Begins Tonight on WWE NXT (1/14)

Michael Reichlin
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New Era Begins Tonight on WWE NXT (1/14)

WWE NXT returns tonight from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, broadcasting live at 8 PM ET on the CW Network.

This show serves as the fallout from last week’s New Year’s Evil premium live event. Fans can expect fallout, including reactions from new NXT Women’s Champion Giulia and new NXT Champion Oba Femi. We’ll also see the NXT tag titles on the line and two #1 contender’s matches.

WWE NXT Preview (January 14, 2025)

Confirmed matches and segments for tonight’s WWE NXT include:

  • NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Nathan Frazer and Axiom, collectively known as Fraxiom, will defend their NXT Tag Team Championship against the formidable duo of Bronco Nima and Lucien Price from OTM (Out The Mud). OTM earned this opportunity by winning a Christmas Chaos Fatal Four Way match on December 24th
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship #1 Contender’s Match: The Unholy Union (Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn) will face off against Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend to determine the next challengers for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship. The winners of this match will earn a shot at the current champions, Bianca Belair and Naomi.
  • NXT Women’s North American Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Shotzi will battle Stephanie Vaquer for a chance to challenge Fallon Henley for the NXT Women’s North American Championship. This match was set up after some controversy, with Shotzi arguing she deserved a title shot after pinning Henley in a recent six-woman tag team match.
  • Corey Graves Complains: After getting bounced from main roster commentary in favor of his more-famous co-workers, Graves says he’s headed to NXT with a lot to say.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest NXT news and catch up on everything that went down at New Year’s Evil 2025:

Chrissy Teigen Celebrates Daughter’s Birthday with John Cena Cake

Thomas Lowson
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Chrissy Teigen Celebrates Daughter’s Birthday with John Cena Cake

Chrissy Teigen marked a return to her kitchen with a special John Cena-themed birthday cake to celebrate her daughter Esti’s second birthday. Teigen shared a photo of the WWE-themed cake, complete with two figures of the Cena, Esti’s favorite pro wrestler.

“I’m feeling grateful to be back home, she wrote on Instagram. “This is all I could muster up for Esti’s birthday.”

John Cena Birthday Cake
Chrissy Teigen’s daughter Esti celebrated her second birthday with a John Cena birthday cake (via IG @ChrissyTeigen)

Teigen and her family had to flee their home on January 8 due to the wildfires that have devastated Los Angeles. The family, consisting of Teigen, Legend, their four children, four dogs, and a bearded dragon, had been staying at a hotel before returning home on January 13.

Esti’s love of John Cena is no secret, with Teigen ssharing last month that her daughter couldn’t “do anything” without a figure of the WWE icon nearby. Teigen added that Esti’s love for Cena seems to have come out of nowhere, calling it a “mystery.”

The Teigen/Legend household will be among those watching Cena’s farewell from in-ring competition, which kicked off during last week’s debut of Raw on Netflix. Cena has vowed to win the Men’s Royal Rumble on February 1, a victory that’d earn the iconic star the opportunity to become a record-breaking WWE World Champion.

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