CM Punk is set to compete for the WWE World Heavyweight Title in a highly anticipated dream match against GUNTHER. The match is scheduled for the December 29th WWE house show at the Allstate Arena in Chicago.
Punk remains a major draw in the Chicago market, owing to his deep connection with the city. Notably, he captured the WWE Championship at the Allstate Arena during the iconic Money in the Bank pay-per-view in 2011.
In 2024, Punk’s return to prominence has been marked by memorable feuds with Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins. Meanwhile, GUNTHER has established himself as a dominant force in WWE this year as World Heavyweight Champion, with high-profile victories over stars like Damian Priest and Randy Orton, since winning the title at SummerSlam.
Initially, the December 29th main event was set to feature GUNTHER vs. Damian Priest. However, the lineup has since shifted to include Punk in what promises to be a marquee matchup.
Other highlights of the event include Sami Zayn challenging Bron Breakker for the Intercontinental Title. Seth Rollins, who has been facing Dominik Mysterio at recent house shows, is also expected to appear. Additionally, Rey Mysterio, Wyatt Sicks, Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, and more are advertised for the show.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star Max Caster recently voiced his frustration with AEW’s decision to heavily edit his entrance rap during the recent episode of AEW Rampage.
The rapper and wrestler called the move disrespectful to both his artistry and hip-hop culture.
What Happened on AEW Rampage?
During the match where Anthony Bowens faced Chris Jericho, fans noticed that Caster’s trademark rap introduction was unusually brief. This raised eyebrows, leading to speculation that the segment had been altered. Caster later confirmed on social media that the rap had indeed been cut, describing the move as an affront to his craft.
In a fiery Instagram post, later shared on X (formerly Twitter), Caster revealed the full lyrics of the edited rap. The original lines contained witty jabs at Jericho and references to Luigi Mangione.
Caster did not hold back, accusing AEW of lacking respect for his creative contributions and the broader hip-hop culture. His lyrics, as posted online, carried his usual sharp humor and biting commentary, which has become a hallmark of The Acclaimed’s appeal.
He wrote: “Since they cut my rap again, here’s what I said. Whoever decided to chop it up is a huge p**y and has no respect for what I do and no respect for hip-hop.”*
AEW recently uploaded a video to X/Twitter showing how excited Toni Storm is for her “first” All Elite Wrestling PPV appearance tonight at Worlds End. Storm is technically not even going to be on the PPV as she is facing Leila Grey on the Zero Hour Pre-Show.
This is of course all part of her ongoing storyline where she either appears to have amnesia or is playing mindgames with Mariah May. Storm has been indicating that she is completely unaware of her previous exploits in AEW, constantly saying that she is a “rookie” in the promotion and has to earn her way up to the upper end of the card (despite her being a big star and former Women’s Champion).
Toni Storm is excited for her match up TONIGHT on #AEWWorldsEnd Zero Hour!
Why is Toni Storm wrestling on the Worlds End Pre-Show?
Toni Storm isn’t wrestling in a high-profile match at Worlds End because she is a “rookie.” At least, that’s what she either believes in storyline or she is playing some mind games with her rival Mariah May, who defeated her back at All In London.
Having Storm now working her way back up the roster whilst seemingly having no idea what is going on has added a fantastic dynamic to the Mariah/Toni feud. There’s no indication as to when this will play off, but it’s going to be fun seeing it play off.
NJPW and AEW are set to run their first Wrestle Dynasty show on Sunday, January 5th, a day after the iconic Tokyo Dome Wrestle Kingdom show on January 4th. There are already some pretty big matches confirmed for that show, but it appears as though New Japan actually wanted more talent from All Elite that they couldn’t get a hold of.
According to a new report from Fightful Select, NJPW wanted to bring more talent in for the event, but due to Collision taking place on the Saturday night, the talent wouldn’t be able to appear at both:
“There were a number of talent that NJPW wanted for Wrestle Dynasty, but were already planned for Collision the same day.”
Fightful Select
We do not currently know how the talents are, but there will probably be some more indication when Collision takes place on January 4th when the show goes live.
Wrestle Dynasty Card
Here are the matches that have been confirmed for Wrestle Dynasty:
Kenny Omega vs. Gabe Kidd
Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Ricochet
Claudio Castagnoli vs. Shota Umio
David Finlay vs. Brody King
Jack Perry vs. Yota Tsuji
NEVER Openweight Championship Match – Shingo Takagi or Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Tomohiro Ishii
IWGP Tag Team Championship Decider Match – Great-O-Khan and a Mystery Partner vs. The Young Bucks (Matthew Jackson and Nicholas Jackson)
NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship and RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship Match – “The CEO” Mercedes Moné (c) [NJPW STRONG Women’s Champion] vs. Mina Shirakawa (c) [RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Champion]
Lucha Gauntlet Match – Four NJPW Stars and Four CMLL Stars Will Compete
Kickoff Match #1 – International Women’s Cup Fatal Four Way Match: Momo Watanabe (STARDOM) vs. Willow Nightingale (AEW) vs. Persephone (CMLL) vs. Athena (ROH)
Kickoff Match #2 – ROH World Tag Team Championship Match: The Sons Of Texas (Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara) (c) vs. House Of Torture (Yoshinobu Kanemaru and SHO)
All Elite Wrestling’s final pay-per-view of the year, AEW Worlds End 2024, is set to take place on Saturday, December 28, at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida.
Before the main event kicks off, fans can tune in to the Zero Hour pre-show for some exciting prelims action. Here’s everything you need to know about watching the AEW Worlds End 2024 Zero Hour Pre Show live stream.
You can watch the AEW Worlds End Zero Hour kickoff show right here at SEScoops at the top of this article, starting at 6:30pm ET.
Wrestling fans have several other options to watch:
AEW YouTube channel: The pre-show will be streamed live for free on AEW’s YouTube channel
AEW social media platforms: Fans can also catch the Zero Hour pre-show on AEW’s official social media accounts
TrillerTV: The entire event, including the Zero Hour pre-show, will be available on TrillerTV for fans in the United States, Canada, and select international markets.
PPV.com: Another option for streaming the event, including the pre-show, is PPV.com.
What to expect during AEW Worlds End 2024 Zero Hour
While the full card for the Zero Hour pre-show hasn’t been announced yet, fans can typically expect:
A 20-man battle royale: This high-energy match often features up-and-coming talent and established stars vying for a spot on the main card.
Title matches: Previous Zero Hour pre-shows have included championship bouts, such as the FTW Title match.
Preview segments: Hosts like Renee Paquette and RJ City often provide insights and predictions for the main card matches.
Video packages: Expect to see promotional videos highlighting the key storylines and feuds leading into the main event.
By tuning in to the AEW Worlds End 2024 Zero Hour pre-show, fans can get hyped for the main event and potentially witness some surprising moments that set the stage for an unforgettable night of professional wrestling action.
A new report from Fightful Select has revealed that Bryan Danielson is backstage at AEW Worlds End 2024. This appearance is fueling speculation about his role in the event and the broader trajectory of his AEW career.
Fans last saw Bryan Danielson actively involved with AEW during the AEW All In Dallas ticketing event, where he played a role in promoting upcoming events.
Despite his ‘forced retirement’ earlier this year, Danielson remains committed to AEW, contributing in various capacities even when not actively wrestling.
What Could Bryan Danielson’s Role Be at Worlds End?
Given his immense influence in AEW both in and out of the ring, speculation abounds about Bryan Danielson’s potential involvement at Worlds End 2024.
While his physical condition might limit in-ring action, and he very likely will not be appearing on-camera, his creative input and on-screen charisma COULD set the stage for major storylines as AEW gears up for the new year.
We do not expect Danielson to appear on the show tonight, but it’s interesting that he is still at some of these bigger events backstage.
Kenny Omega’s anticipated return to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been a hot topic among wrestling fans. With the Worlds End 2024 pay-per-view scheduled for tonight (December 28), speculation is rampant about whether Omega will make his comeback at this significant event.
Omega has been sidelined for most of 2024 due to a severe case of diverticulitis, which required extensive recovery and rehabilitation. His last appearance in the ring was over a year ago, and since then, he has been focused on healing and training for a return to action.
Recently, he made headlines by announcing a match against Gabe Kidd at New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025, signaling his readiness to compete again.
Hints of a Return at Worlds End
Reports indicate that Omega’s return to AEW might coincide with the Worlds End event. A vignette promoting his comeback aired during the December 18 episode of AEW Dynamite, hinting at his imminent return.
According to sources speaking to Fightful Select, there is an “active plan” for Omega to appear at Worlds End, although the specifics of his role remain unclear. This has led fans to wonder if he will participate in a match or perhaps kick off a new storyline.
The Importance of Omega’s Return
Kenny Omega is considered one of the top stars in AEW, and his return could significantly impact the promotion as it wraps up the year. His presence is expected to generate excitement and potentially shift the dynamics within various ongoing storylines. Notably, the event will also feature high-stakes matches, including a four-way contest for the AEW World Championship in the main event slot, making it an ideal time for Omega to re-enter the fray.
As fans eagerly await confirmation of Omega’s participation at Worlds End 2024, his return promises to be a pivotal moment for AEW, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter as the company heads into 2025.
Mariah May will be defending her AEW Women’s World Championship at the AEW Worlds End 2024 PPV event tonight. May will be putting her belt on the line against former champion Thunder Rosa in a Tijuana Street Fight, and both women have traded shots online ahead of the contest.
A Tijuana Street Fight is a type of match characterized by its chaotic and extreme nature. This match format often includes the use of weapons, no disqualifications, and a general lack of rules, allowing for a more brutal and unpredictable contest.
Key Features of a Tijuana Street Fight
No Disqualifications: Wrestlers can use weapons and engage in any form of combat without the risk of disqualification.
Weapons Allowed: Common items used in these matches may include chairs, tables, and other objects that can enhance the physicality of the fight.
Brawling Style: The match typically emphasizes brawling over technical wrestling, leading to a more intense atmosphere.
Cultural Reference: The name “Tijuana” suggests a connection to the vibrant and sometimes chaotic wrestling culture found in Tijuana, Mexico, known for its Lucha Libre style.
Check out the back and forth between both women below:
The AEW Continental Classic (C2) is a prestigious annual tournament organized by All Elite Wrestling (AEW). The winner of this high-stakes competition earns not only the coveted AEW Continental Championship but also recognition as a top-tier competitor All Elite.
What is the AEW Continental Championship?
The AEW Continental Championship is a unique title introduced in November 2023. The championship is contested under Continental Rules, which emphasize fair play by banning outside interference and ringside presence during matches of managers or faction members. The title is designed to showcase wrestling skill and strategy in its purest form.
How Does the Tournament Work?
The Continental Classic is a round-robin tournament, with matches spanning AEW’s flagship shows: Dynamite and Collision. The competition culminates at the Worlds End Pay-Per-View event, where the finals decide the champion.
Continental Rules
Matches held in the AEW Continental Classic adhere to “Continental Rules,” which prioritize integrity and sportsmanship. These include:
No Outside Interference: Wrestlers are prohibited from having managers, teammates, or anyone else at ringside. This ensures that the outcomes are determined strictly by the competitors’ efforts.
Strict Prohibition of Interference: Any attempt by external parties to influence the match results in immediate disqualification, safeguarding the legitimacy of the competition.
Time Limit for Matches: Each match has a 20-minute time limit, which adds urgency and encourages a fast-paced, decisive style of wrestling. If no winner is determined within the time limit, the match ends in a draw.
Round-Robin Format
The tournament uses a round-robin structure, with participants divided into groups. Each wrestler competes against every other member of their group, earning points based on their performance:
Win: 2 points
Draw: 1 point
Loss: 0 points
At the end of the group stage, the top competitors from each group advance to the finals.
Tiebreakers in Standings
If wrestlers are tied in points at the end of the group stage, tiebreakers are applied to determine who advances. This might include:
Head-to-Head Results: Performance in matches between the tied wrestlers.
Additional Matches: A tiebreaker match may be scheduled if necessary.
The Finals at Worlds End
The tournament culminates in a high-stakes match at AEW’s Worlds End Pay-Per-View event. The winner of the final not only claims victory in the Continental Classic but also becomes or remains the AEW Continental Champion.
What Does the Winner Gain?
The AEW Continental Championship The primary prize of the C2 tournament is the AEW Continental Championship, making the winner the reigning champion of this prestigious title.
Prestige and Legacy Winning the tournament cements the wrestler’s status in AEW’s history books. Eddie Kingston, the inaugural winner, was also crowned the American Triple Crown Champion for simultaneously holding titles in AEW and its partner promotions.
Future Opportunities The winner of the tournament often finds themselves positioned for further main-event opportunities, boosting their career trajectory in AEW and beyond.
The reigning champion at the time of the C2 is automatically entered into the tournament and must defend their title throughout the event, adding an extra layer of intensity to the competition.
As All Elite Wrestling prepares to close out another exciting year, fans eagerly anticipate the matchups set for AEW Worlds End 2024. This pay-per-view event promises to deliver high-stakes battles and potentially game-changing outcomes. Let’s dive into some predictions for the most anticipated matches of the night.
The main event features Jon Moxley defending his AEW World Championship against Orange Cassidy, Jay White, and Hangman Page in a four-way contest.
Despite facing three opponents, Moxley is favored to retain his title. The champion thrives in chaotic environments, and his ability to capitalise on the discord among his challengers may prove crucial.
However, with the odds stacked against him, an upset is always possible in such a volatile match-up.
Continental Classic Tournament Finals
The Continental Classic tournament reaches its climax at Worlds End, with Kazuchika Okada expected to face Will Ospreay in the finals. This clash of former NJPW stars could steal the show, given their history of exceptional matches.
Okada is predicted to emerge victorious to claim the tournament win and retain his AEW Continental Championship.
Dynamite Diamond Ring Match
MJF puts his prized Dynamite Diamond Ring on the line against former friend turned bitter rival, Adam Cole.
After five years of MJF’s dominance, Cole is likely to claim the Dynamite Diamond Ring, marking a significant victory that could reestablish him as a top player in AEW and set the stage for a strong 2025 campaign.
AEW International Championship Match
Konosuke Takeshita is set to defend his AEW International Championship against Powerhouse Hobbs.
The odds heavily favor Takeshita to retain his title and continue his impressive reign into the new year. Takeshita is expected to successfully defend his championship at Worlds End.
TBS Championship Rematch
Mercedes Moné defends her TBS Championship in a rematch against Kris Statlander. This bout could go either way, as both competitors have shown tremendous skill and determination throughout their rivalry.
Moné is predicted to retain her TBS Championship, but fans should prepare for a fiercely contested match.
AEW World’s End 2024 is AEW’s final pay-per-view event of the year, happening tonight, December 28, 2024, at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida. Wrestling fans around the world will witness the culmination of bitter feuds, high-stakes championship matches, and the finals of the prestigious Continental Classic tournament.
With a stacked card featuring eight main event matches, plus exciting Zero Hour kickoff bouts, World’s End 2024 promises to be a can’t-miss event for wrestling enthusiasts.
How to Watch
Wrestling fans can watch AEW World’s End live on pay-per-view starting at 8 PM ET on these platforms:
TrillerTV: Available in the US, Canada, and select international markets.
PPV.com: Accessible in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, and Ireland.
YouTube: Available in the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Italy, France, UK, and South Korea.
Main PPV Match Card
AEW World Championship Four-Way Match Jon Moxley (c) vs. Orange Cassidy vs. ‘Hangman’ Adam Page vs. Jay White
Women’s World Championship Tijuana Street Fight Mariah May (c) vs. Thunder Rosa
TBS Championship Match Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Kris Statlander
International Championship Match Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Powerhouse Hobbs
Dynamite Dozen Ring Match: MJF vs. Adam Cole
Continental Classic Semi-Final Match 1: Will Ospreay vs. Kyle Fletcher
Continental Classic Semi-Final Match 2: Ricochet vs. Kazuchika Okada
Continental Classic Finals: TBD vs. TBD
AEW Continental Championship
The winner of the annual AEW Continental Classic tournament receives the AEW Continental Championship, which has some unique attributes.
It’s defended throughout the year under Continental Rules. The reigning champion automatically qualifies the incumbent champion for the next tournament, and defends the title throughout the tournament.
90 minutes before AEW Worlds End begins, AEW presents the Zero Hour kickoff show at 6:30pm ET. How to Watch
The three scheduled matches include:
Singles Match: Toni Storm vs. Leila Grey
Eight-Man Tag Team Match: The Outrunners & Top Flight vs. Lance Archer & Brian Cage of The Don Callis Family, and Action Andretti & Lio Rush
Singles Match: QT Marshall vs. Jeff Jarrett
Post-Show Backstage Media Scrum
Immediately after the pay-per-view concludes, fans can stream the AEW Worlds End Post Show Media Scrum with candid questions with the top stars who wrestled earlier in the evening.
AEW World’s End 2024 Preview
Let’s break down the matches on the main PPV card for this highly anticipated event.
World Championship Four-Way Match
The main event of the evening will see Jon Moxley defend his AEW World Championship against three formidable challengers: ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, Orange Cassidy, and Jay White.
This high-stakes match is sure to be a thrilling conclusion to the show, with each competitor bringing their unique style and motivation to the ring.
Continental Classic Tournament Finals
The Continental Classic tournament will reach its climax at World’s End, with two semifinal matches and the final all taking place on the same night. Will Ospreay faces Kyle Fletcher in one semifinal, while Ricochet takes on Kazuchika Okada in the other. The winners will then compete in the tournament final to crown the ultimate victor and the new AEW Continental Champion
Women’s World Championship Tijuana Street Fight
In what promises to be a brutal encounter, Mariah May will put her AEW Women’s World Championship on the line against Thunder Rosa in a Tijuana Street Fight. This no-holds-barred match will test both competitors’ toughness and creativity.
TBS and International Championship Matches
Mercedes Moné will defend her TBS Championship against the always dangerous Kris Statlander.
In another title bout, Konosuke Takeshita puts his International Championship on the line against Powerhouse Hobbs.
MJF vs. Adam Cole
In a highly personal grudge match, MJF will face his former friend Adam Cole. This contest has been building for a year and will see the two bitter rivals finally settle their differences in the ring. The winner will also claim the coveted Dynamite Diamond Ring.
With eight matches confirmed for the main card, World’s End 2024 is shaping up to be a strong event to round out the year for AEW. The combination of championship bouts, tournament action, and personal rivalries ensures that there will be something for everyone on this stacked card. Enjoy the show!
AEW Worlds End 2024 Potential Debuts: The Latest RumorsAs AEW prepares for its final pay-per-view event of the year, Worlds End 2024, set to take place on December 28th in Orlando, Florida, the wrestling world is abuzz with speculation about potential debuts and surprises.
With the event marking the end of AEW’s current streaming partnership before moving to MAX in January 2025, fans are expecting some major shakeups and new faces to appear.
Several former WWE talents are rumored to be making their AEW debuts at Worlds End 2024. Among the most talked-about potential arrivals are:
Raj Deshi (formerly Jinder Mahal), Veer Mahan, and Sanga: This trio of former WWE superstars could potentially form a new faction in AEW, bringing a fresh dynamic to the men’s roster.
Baron Corbin: Released by WWE in November 2024, Corbin’s strengths and potential make him a strong candidate for an AEW debut.
Shane McMahon: Long-standing rumors suggest Shane McMahon might finally make his AEW debut, potentially joining Jon Moxley’s Death Riders faction or taking on a creative role within the company.
Potential Impact on AEW World Championship Picture
The AEW World Championship scene could see some significant changes at Worlds End 2024. Jon Moxley is set to defend his title in a four-way match against Orange Cassidy, Hangman Adam Page, and Jay White.
However, there are whispers of a possible debut that could threaten Moxley and the Death Riders’ dominance.
Surprise Female Talent Debut
While much of the focus has been on male wrestlers, there’s also speculation about potential female talent debuts.
One intriguing rumor involves former WWE alum Samantha Irvin possibly making a shocking appearance at Worlds End.
All Elite Wrestling’s weekly TV series, AEW Rampage, aired its final episode on Friday, December 27, 2024, marking the end of an era for the promotion. The show, which debuted on August 13, 2021, ran for over three years and produced a total of 177 episodes. Its conclusion comes as part of AEW’s new media rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, which aims to reorganize the company’s programming lineup.
Rampage began as a one-hour supplementary show to Dynamite, showcasing AEW’s roster and delivering memorable moments in its late-night Friday slot. While it primarily highlighted younger talent and midcard feuds, it occasionally became the stage for monumental events.
The debut episode set the tone for its legacy with Christian Cage defeating Kenny Omega to win the Impact World Championship. Another milestone followed on August 20, 2021, when CM Punk made his long-awaited return to wrestling after a seven-year hiatus, delivering an unforgettable moment that reverberated through the industry.
Unforgettable Matches
Throughout its run, Rampage delivered numerous standout matches that earned acclaim from fans and critics alike. Some of the best include:
Kenny Omega vs. Christian Cage (August 13, 2021) – Christian Cage captures the Impact World title from Omega in a classic AEW battle.
Andrade El Idolo vs. PAC (September 10, 2021) – A high-octane bout that showcased elite athleticism and storytelling.
The Young Bucks vs. Lucha Brothers (March 18, 2022) – A tag team spectacle full of breathtaking spots.
Jon Moxley vs. Darby Allin (June 16, 2023) – A hard-hitting clash that highlighted the intense chemistry between the two fan favorites.
While Rampage never matched the ratings of its predecessor, Dynamite, it succeeded in carving out a niche as a platform for bold matchups and historic moments.
The Future of AEW Programming
With Rampage now retired, AEW is reportedly focusing on bolstering its flagship programming and expanding into new formats under its partnership with WBD.
Starting in January 2025 here’s what AEW fans can expect:
AEW Dynamite: Will air live on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on both TBS and Max.
AEW Collision: Will air live on Saturdays at 8 p.m. ET on both TNT and Max.
AEW PPV Events will be distributed on Max later in 2025, with pricing and additional details to be announced in the coming months
Over 700 hours of AEW content, including past episodes and pay-per-views, will be available on Max, with regular updates throughout 2025.
AEW Rampage was the setting for classic matches and iconic moments throughout its run. Its legacy lives on as a chapter of AEW’s early years and evolution.
Oba Femi says he appreciated his experience working with Otis.
The longest reigning NXT North American Champion of all time recently spoke to Adam Barnard of The Takedown. He discussed things such as NXT’s partnership with TNA, his feud with Tony D’Angelo and more.
He was also asked about working with Otis during his championship reign and what it was like being on the receiving end of the Caterpillar. Responding to it, Oba Femi claimed that the Caterpillar is a memory his brain had buried deep into his mind:
“That is a lot of human being. You don’t know what you just did there. You just unlocked a hidden something my brain tried to bury and you just excavated it from the ground. That’s a lot of man coming down on you. Pause. But yeah, he’s a big man.
I enjoyed working with Otis. He’s a very entertaining fellow. I like how he makes the smallest of things mean the most. He’s a star definitely so. [He] definitely pushed me into my limits as well. Just moving him around was difficult and when something is difficult, I embrace the challenge. So I appreciated my experience working with Otis.”
Unfortunately for the 26-year-old, the match for New Year’s Evil on January 7 has been converted into a triple threat after Eddy Thorpe also laid claim on a title rematch following a chaotic end to his last fight with Williams.
You can check out Oba Femi’s match with Otis below:
Nick Gage says he is not sure where his relationship with GCW stands.
The Hardcore star was once the center figure of the indie promotion. Till date, he remains the only person the company ever signed to a contract. Gage however has not made an appearance for the New Jersey based promotion in a while.
He last wrestled for the promotion at the August 2, 2024, GCW Now And Forever show. Nick Gage was then pulled from the announced August 24 Homecoming event and he has not been booked for any appearances ever since. In the meantime, the 44-year-old confirmed that he checked himself in rehab but did not provide any further details.
Gage was recently interviewed by MuscleManMalcolm while he was visiting an Arrival Wrestling show. When asked about his relationship with the company that he once had such close ties with, Nick noted that he still exchanges texts with the promoter Brett Lauderdale but that’s the extent of it:
“My current relationship with GCW is…I don’t know man. You know, I really don’t know Malcolm. I text, I get answers. We hit a little bit back and forth but that’s it. Am I sorting out to please and begging and all? None of that and vice versa from him. None of that coming my way.
I feel like in time, it will heal wounds and we’ll get back on track. The way we’re supposed to be, the right way. I just think it will happen organically and natural, to where the time would be right and me and him would be fucking cool as we should be and probably have a sit down to dinner and discuss what it is. Who knows when it’s going to happen.”
Nick Gage also praised Lauderdale for helping him out during his jail term and revealed that Brett made the mugshot shirt for him during the time so he could earn money while serving his sentence.
Gage had taken a break from wrestling in August and he recently returned to the ring for a BCW event in the 2300 Arena. The December 14 show saw him fighting Drake Younger for the Philadelphia Street Fight Title.
Matt Hardy has picked Drew McIntyre as his heel of the year.
The wrestling veteran reflected on 2024 on the latest episode of his podcast and gave out awards in various categories. He picked Cody Rhodes as his babyface of the year.
When it came to picking heel of the year, Hardy gave mentions to people like Hangman Page and Gunther but said that The Scottish Warrior was head and shoulder above everyone else:
“Drew McIntyre is head and shoulders above the rest I almost feel like. Everybody was great but just Drew McIntyre had an extremely amazing year. 2024 was a year of Drew McIntyre no doubt.”
Matt Hardy picked the former World Champion as his talker of the year as well, explaining how McIntyre has completely committed to his character. The Attitude Era star recalled the viral moment of McIntyre walking out of his Busted Open interview and revealed that it was all the WWE star’s idea:
“My favorite this year, especially because he really embraced his heel role and he went so through with the shtick is Drew McIntyre. One thing that I wanted to say about Drew McIntyre, about committing to the schtick.
So I had just learned from talking to Tommy Dreamer and Dave LaGreca. Whenever he did that bit with Busted Open, he was out there and he gave that heart….It was really a from-the-heart type spill as he was saying, which he kind of sounded like a dickhead for saying, but obviously, some of it rang true.
He dropped the mic and he left, and none of those guys were in the know. I mean, that was all done on his own. Nobody had any idea that was coming. That was all him working his character.”
Jordynne Grace is another name whose TNA deal is set to expire soon.
Wrestling Veteran Rhino was the first to announce the end of his TNA run earlier this month, confirming that the December 14 taping was his last scheduled date with the company after a 5-year tenure.
Fightful Select later confirmed that roster members including Aiden Prince, Trent Seven, AJ Francis, and KUSHIDA all had their contracts expiring by the end of this year.
The site is now reporting that the former Knockouts Champion is another name whose deal is coming to an end soon. Though unlike the other roster members, Grace’s contract actually extends a few weeks into 2025 and her last contracted date for the company will be around the TNA Genesis weekend.
Genesis PPV is set to take place on January 19, 2025 and Jordynne Grace will be facing former TNA Champion Tessa Blanchard at the show. Grace herself previously hinted at this being her last show with a tweet earlier in the month.
The timeframe will allow Grace to sign with WWE and make an appearance at the upcoming Royal Rumble PPV on February 1 if she chooses to leave TNA.
Grace apparently pushed back on working with Blanchard before her return and the outcome of their PPV match will tell us if she’ll be sticking around after the show.
Jon Moxley brought AEW Rampage to a dramatic close this week, signaling the end of the Friday night show for the time being. In the chaotic finale of AEW Rampage: New Year’s Smash, the Death Riders clashed with other wrestlers, and Moxley, joined by Marina Shafir, stormed into the production room.
interrogated the production staff, questioning how any work could get done amid AEW’s ongoing chaos. Declaring his intent to restore order at Worlds End, Moxley took a decisive step by calling for the end of Rampage. The AEW World Champion shouted for the live feed to be cut, and the terrified producers complied.
AEW World Champion Jon Moxley is putting an END to Rampage as we know it!
This marked not only the conclusion of the latest episode of Rampage but also the show’s suspension as a whole. During the recent taping of AEW Dynamite, Tony Khan confirmed that Rampage would be going off the air “for the foreseeable future.”
Rampage premiered in 2021 with a strong debut, highlighted by CM Punk’s much-anticipated return to wrestling during its second episode. However, the show has since lost prominence in AEW’s storytelling, with key narratives shifting to Dynamite and Collision. When AEW announced its updated deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, fans observed that while the agreement secured the futures of Dynamite and Collision, it did not mention Rampage.
Chelsea Green was oozing Americana during this week’s SmackDown, where she relished in becoming the first-ever Women’s U.S. Champion.
On the December 27 show, Green made her entrance dressed as the Statue of Liberty to commemorate her historic achievement while Piper Niven also dressed to impress for the occasion. In her speech, Green vowed to bring pride and sexiness to her championship reign. The champ playfully paraphrased John F. Kennedy by urging fans to think about what they could do for her. She also declared her intentions to transform the blue brand into a “Green House.”
The festivities didn’t last long, as Michin, the woman Green defeated at Saturday Night’s Main Event to capture the championship, interrupted the celebration. Armed with a kendo stick, Michin attacked Niven and chased Green out of the ring.
Zelina Vega is out of action for the time being, halting the LWO star’s quest for the WWE Speed Women’s Championship. During the latest episode of WWE’s X-exclusive program, Vega was scheduled to face Natalya. However, B-Fab stepped in as a replacement, taking on the Canadian veteran instead.
Corey Graves explained on commentary that B-Fab replaced Vega due to an injury. The match ended with Natalya defeating B-Fab with just 22 seconds remaining, advancing her to the next round of the tournament to determine Candice LeRae’s next challenger.
This marks a significant setback for the 34-year-old Vega, who celebrated her birthday earlier this week. She last competed for a championship on July 1, when she challenged Liv Morgan for the Women’s World Championship on WWE Raw. While Vega has yet to claim singles championship gold in WWE, she held the Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside Carmella from November 2021 to April 2022.
WWE has not yet provided details on Vega’s injury or a timeline for her return, leaving fans eager for updates on the popular Superstar. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest news on Zelina Vega and her status in the WWE Speed Women’s Title Tournament.
Cody Rhodes promised to kick Kevin Owens’ ass after tonight’s SmackDown from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida went off air.
The American Nightmare confronted his former friend in the main event of tonight’s show. After an exchange of words, Nick Aldis confirmed that the two will face each other in a ladder match at Royal Rumble.
The segment ended with Owens shoving Aldis into Cody and beating up the WWE Champion until the officials made the save. Kevin then left with the Winged Eagle title still in his possession.
Rhodes on the other hand, stayed in the ring after the show went off air. He cut a short promo mentioning how his mother is from Tampa as well and promised to make KO pay for his actions before finally leaving.
The night continued with dark matches after the WWE Champion’s promo. The first dark match of the night saw Bianca Belair teaming up with Dakota Kai to defeat Pure Fusion Collective. This was Bianca’s second match of the night as she also competed in a six-women tag on SmackDown.
Jey Uso came out for the second dark match of the night. He faced Chad Gable in the bout and the OG Bloodline member picked up the victory. The New Bloodline attacked the Yeet man after the bell, however, prompting Braun Strowman and Sami Zayn to make the save.
WWE has officially confirmed that SmackDown will be expanding from its current two-hour format to a three-hour broadcast starting in 2025. This significant change is set to take effect on January 3, 2025, with the first extended episode airing live from Phoenix, Arizona.
Starting next week, WWE SmackDown airs Friday nights on the USA Network from 8-11pm ET. Two championship matches are set for the broadcast:
Andrade vs Shinsuke Nakamura (c) for the United States Championship
Naomi challenges Naomi for the WWE Women’s Championship
SmackDown made its return to the USA Network on Friday, September 13, 2024, after a five-year stint on Fox. The return to USA Network was part of a new multi-year partnership between WWE and NBCUniversal, reportedly valued at $1.4 billion over five years. This deal not only brought SmackDown back to cable television but also included plans for WWE to produce four annual Saturday Night’s Main Event primetime specials for NBC.
WWE SmackDown results for December 27, 2024:
Six-Woman Tag Team Match: Bianca Belair, Naomi, and Bayley defeated Nia Jax, Tiffany Stratton, and Candice LeRae. Naomi pinned LeRae after a roll-up.
Singles Match: Braun Strowman defeated Austin Theory with Grayson Waller. Strowman won with a running powerslam.
Women’s United States Championship Celebration: Chelsea Green celebrated her title win, but was interrupted by Michin, who attacked Piper Niven with a kendo stick.
Tag Team Match: The Street Profits defeated Los Garza (Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo) with Elektra Lopez. The Street Profits won with the Doomsday Blockbuster.
Singles Match: Sami Zayn vs. Carmelo Hayes ended in a no contest. The match was disrupted by Braun Strowman chasing Hayes away, and then The New Bloodline attacked Zayn.
Jade Cargill Saga: Nia Jax denied involvement in Jade Cargill’s injury and accused Bianca Belair of being the top suspect
Cody Rhodes vs. Kevin Owens for the Undisputed WWE Championship and the Winged Eagle Championship has been officially set for the 2025 Royal Rumble. The high-stakes encounter will be contested in a ladder match, with both titles suspended above the ring. The winner will be the first to climb the ladder and retrieve both championships.
This blockbuster match was confirmed on the final SmackDown episode of 2024, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
This is the third match confirmed for the upcoming premium live event. In addition to this ladder match, we’ll see the annual Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble matches.
The 2025 WWE Royal Rumble is scheduled to take place on February 1 in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Karl Anderson revealed in November that he underwent surgery, sidelining him for the foreseeable future. Speaking on Talk N Shop, Anderson confirmed the procedure was necessary to repair a torn rotator cuff tendon and a partially torn labrum.
The injury initially occurred during a match, but Anderson didn’t think much of it until it worsened during another match the following week. After competing in three or four more matches, the pain became unbearable, causing sleepless nights due to constant aching and throbbing. At the time, Anderson estimated his recovery would take six to nine months.
Providing a recent update on Talk N Shop, Anderson shared, “I’m at home now, obviously with my injured shoulder. I am out indefinitely for at least six or seven more months with a torn rotator cuff and a torn labrum. The labrum…I think before you wondered if that was an old injury, and I have to say, it was not. It’s coming back. I’m able to [move] a little,” he explained.
Anderson, one half of the tag team The OC alongside Luke Gallows, has been absent from television since the September 24 episode of NXT, where they lost to Hank Walker and Tank Ledger. The duo later appeared in a dark match at an NXT event in Chicago the following week.
All Elite Wrestling’s final pay-per-view event of the year, AEW Worlds End 2024, is set to take place tonight at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida. As anticipation builds for this exciting event, let’s take a look at the current betting odds and favorites for the main matches from BetOnline.
The main event of the evening features a Fatal 4-Way match for the AEW World Heavyweight Championship. Current champion Jon Moxley is the heavy favorite to retain his title, with odds of -2000.
His challengers face an uphill battle, with Jay White at -900, Orange Cassidy at +500, and “Hangman” Adam Page as the longshot at +1100.
AEW Women’s World Championship Match
In the women’s division, champion Mariah May is expected to successfully defend her title against Thunder Rosa. May is a substantial favorite with odds of -3000, while Rosa is the underdog at +900.
AEW International Championship Match
Konosuke Takeshita is heavily favored to retain his AEW International Championship against Powerhouse Hobbs. Takeshita’s odds stand at -3000, with Hobbs as the underdog at +900.
Other Notable Matches
The Dynamite Diamond Ring Match between MJF and Adam Cole is shaping up to be a closer contest. MJF is favored at -225, while Cole sits at +160.
Betting Trends and Implications
These early betting odds suggest that oddsmakers expect most champions to retain their titles at Worlds End 2024. However, it’s important to note that in professional wrestling, surprises can always happen, and these odds may shift as the event draws closer.
The closest match, according to the odds, is the MJF vs. Adam Cole bout, which could potentially be a show-stealer given the relatively even odds.
