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Taz on AEW vs. WWE: “You’re Comparing Dogs & Cats!”

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AEW commentator and wrestling veteran Taz recently shared his thoughts on fans comparing wrestlers from AEW and WWE. In a tweet, he acknowledged that fans enjoy making these comparisons but emphasized that it’s ultimately an unfair evaluation.

“I know fans like to compare wrestlers in AEW & WWE the past several years. I know as fans that’s fun to do! I get that, but PLEASE realize is it’s an unfair comparison. It’s too completely different organizations, with different goals creatively. With differing visions. Guys, u r comparing DOGS & CATS! And most of you don’t even realize that.” Taz wrote.

Taz’s perspective aligns with ongoing discussions in the wrestling community about the differences between AEW and WWE. While both companies feature elite talent and compelling storylines, their creative approaches, presentation styles, and business models vary significantly.

As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, comparisons between AEW and WWE are inevitable. However, Taz’s comments serve as a reminder that each company offers its own unique brand of entertainment.

Ricky Saints Reunites with CM Punk Before WWE NXT In-Ring Debut

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Ricky Saints quickly became part of NXT after debuting on the February 11 episode following his AEW exit. He has already made an impact with his presence, and it appears he reunited with CM Punk before this week’s NXT episode.

The Second City Saint took to his Instagram story and uploaded a photo of himself alongside Ricky Saints, marking their reunion ahead of the February 25 edition of NXT. Punk and Saints appeared happy together, with Punk humorously referencing their shared moniker by captioning the post, “Couple of Saints.”

CM Punk and Ricky Saints
Couple of Saints: The “Second City Saint” CM Punk and Ricky Saints
(Photo: CM Punk / Instagram)

Ricky Saints and CM Punk developed a close bond from their time working together in AEW, where they had a notable feud on AEW Collision in 2023. Despite Punk’s departure from AEW, the two have remained close.

As for Ricky Saints, he is set to team up with Je’Von Evans to face Ethan Page and Wes Lee in tag team action during the February 25 edition of NXT. Given this photo, Punk will likely be watching closely as Saints makes his WWE in-ring debut.

Shipping Date on WWE’s New Hardy Boyz Shirt Raises Questions Ahead of NXT Return

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WWE Shop has launched WWE has launched a new t-shirt for The Hardy Boyz just in time for Matt and Jeff Hardy’s highly anticipated return to NXT tonight on the CW.

The shirt is listed as a “special event item” and is expected to ship no later than Friday, March 28, 2025. While the merchandise release does not confirm a full-time return for the Hardys in WWE, it adds to the excitement surrounding their appearance.

Maybe they’re just returning for one night, but it could also be the start of something more.

mens black the hardy boyz nxt t shirt ss5 p 202920255pv 1u vcuqtpwxxuuocskprzqsv dgds28dtnb6h2dgbvog3

The product description highlights the brothers’ signature style, referencing their high-flying moves and energetic presence in the ring. Notably, this is a t-shirt for The Hardy Boyz, not “The Hardys” as they’re known in TNA Wrestling.

The Hardy Boyz are set to face No Quarter Catch Crew tonight, marking Matt Hardy’s first NXT match in 15 years—an event that carries historical significance for the former tag team champions.

Roman Reigns Names The Funniest Bloodline Family Member

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The Bloodline may be one of the most dominant factions in WWE history, but behind the scenes, there’s no shortage of laughs. According to Roman Reigns, Jimmy Uso is the funniest member of the group – by far.

In a recent interview with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri ahead of the release of WWE 2K25, the “Tribal Chief” opened up about The Bloodline’s real-life chemistry – and why Jimmy stands out as the natural entertainer.

“I would say, and I think we all agree, Big Jim is by far the funniest of all of us,” Reigns said.

He explained that his brother always had a magnetic personality and shined in social situations.

“Way back in the day, we’d be in a bar or something—me and Jey keeping to ourselves—and then like, ‘Where’s your brother at?’ Look around and you see Jim over there making best friends.”

Reigns praised Jimmy for his charisma, positive energy, and ability to make connections with ease.

“Nobody makes best friends like Jim, but that’s because he’s funny, he’s personable, he’s got great energy, he’s super positive, and he’s always having a good time,” he explained. “Jimmy is by far our best greatest entertainer and funny guy.”

The acknowledgment from Reigns only solidifies what many WWE fans already knew—Jimmy Uso’s infectious energy isn’t just an on-screen persona, but a core part of who he is.

With WWE 2K25 on the horizon, fans will soon get to experience The Bloodline’s dominance (and maybe some of Jimmy’s humor) in the virtual ring.

Fox Denies Involvement in Vince McMahon’s Alleged New Wrestling Venture

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Fox has officially denied reports that it is collaborating with Vince McMahon on a new wrestling promotion. The clarification comes amid speculation about McMahon’s next move following his resignation from WWE in January 2024.

According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, a Fox spokesperson confirmed that the network has no involvement with McMahon in any wrestling-related capacity.

The denial counters speculation that McMahon, who left WWE and its parent company, TKO Group Holdings, might be working on a new venture with Fox as a potential broadcast partner.

McMahon’s resignation came after Janel Grant filed a lawsuit accusing him of sexual misconduct. The lawsuit added to previous controversies, including hush-money payments that had already drawn regulatory scrutiny. While McMahon has remained silent on his future plans, the Fox statement makes it clear that the network is not involved in any such efforts.

Ric Flair Guards the Throne: ‘I Don’t Want Cena at 17’

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Wrestling legend Ric Flair appeared on Busted Open to discuss his daughter Charlotte Flair’s 2025 Royal Rumble victory, WWE’s direction under Triple H, and who he believes should break his championship record.

Charlotte Flair’s Confidence and Growth

Flair couldn’t be prouder of Charlotte’s evolution as a performer, emphasizing her confidence and work ethic.

“She just oozes confidence,” Flair said. “She knows she’s got it. She can sit there, think about it, and then go out there and knock it out.”

Despite WWE positioning her as a babyface, Charlotte was met with a mixed reaction on RAW. Rather than resisting it, she leaned into the moment.

“That is a confident human being,” Flair noted. “She can change it up and give the crowd whatever they want. That comes with time, but she’s got it now.”

Who Should Break Ric Flair’s Record?

Flair Cena

Flair holds the record for most world title reigns at 16, a mark John Cena has tied. When asked who he’d prefer to break it, his answer was clear.

“I’d like it to be one of three people—Randy, Charlotte, or John,” Flair said. “My first pick would be Charlotte.”

Though he admires Cena, he admitted he isn’t rooting for him to take the top spot.

“I don’t want Cena at 17,” he admitted. “But I have so much time for John. He’s truly one of the greats.”

Flair on Triple H’s Leadership

Since Triple H took over WWE’s creative direction, the backstage atmosphere has shifted for the better, according to Flair.

“I haven’t heard one negative thing about him,” Flair said. “He’s much better at delegating authority. Vince had to see every vignette and pre-tape, but Hunter trusts the people around him. That’s made a huge difference.”

With record-breaking ticket sales and a rejuvenated roster, Flair believes WWE is in a great place under Triple H’s guidance.

“They’re running as smooth as I’ve ever seen,” he said.

With Charlotte back in the title picture and WrestleMania on the horizon, the Nature Boy is more excited than ever about what’s next for WWE.

Asuka Calls Out ‘Worthless, Garbage Reviews,’ Urges WWE Fans to Think Independently

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Asuka has never been one to shy away from letting her feelings be known on social media. Recently, she hit back at a fan who harshly criticized her 2016 NXT TakeOver: Toronto match with Mickie James.

Initially, Asuka responded to a video clip of the match, commenting on how proud she was of her and James’ work, calling it a “great match.” However, one fan responded to Asuka’s comment, instead saying the bout was “boilerplate hardcam WWE slop.”

Asuka took the opportunity to send a message out to fans. Encouraging them not to allow “worthless, garbage reviews” to dictate their choices, the “Empress” of WWE suggested that fans think for themselves instead of relying on critics and online opinions.

Asuka and James went head-to-head back on November 19, 2016 at NXT TakeOver: Toronto. It was Asuka defending her then-NXT Women’s Championship against the veteran, who she eventually defeated via submission when it was all said and done. Now, years later, Asuka has established herself as one of the cornerstones of the WWE main roster.

She holds accolades such as being the winner of the first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble, a three-time WWE Women’s Champion, and a former Women’s Money In The Bank winner, amongst others.

Asuka is currently out-of-action nursing a knee injury.

Kayla Becker on Roman Reigns: ‘He Just Blows You Off’

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Kayla Becker didn’t hold back when discussing Roman Reigns during her appearance on After We Wrap, a podcast hosted by actress Gabriella Ortiz. When the topic of Reigns came up, Becker had a playful but pointed response.

“Oh, we’ll deal with him, girlfriend, because he just blows you off anytime you ask him an intelligent question—just like a man,” she joked.

As a backstage interviewer for WWE, Becker frequently interacted with Reigns, especially during the years-long Bloodline storyline.

She also shared her appreciation for Reigns’ on-screen advisor, Paul Heyman, adding with a laugh,

“His little sidekick Paul Heyman can get it too.”

Becker’s comments offer a lighthearted glimpse into the dynamics behind WWE’s biggest stars and those who work with them. While Reigns remains one of WWE’s most dominant figures, it seems he may not always be the most cooperative interview subject.

Though she has left WWE, Becker remains closely connected to the industry, often reflecting on her experiences and friendships built along the way. Whether or not she’ll cross paths with Reigns again remains to be seen, but for now, she’s enjoying life outside the wrestling bubble.

Nia Jax Wants Ava as WWE General Manager on RAW or SmackDown

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In an interview with Scott Fishman of TV Insider, Nia Jax expressed her pride in Ava’s progress and shared her hopes of seeing her move up to the main roster.

Ava, the daughter of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, began training at the WWE Performance Center in 2020. Formerly a member of Schism in NXT, she transitioned into an authority role, becoming the General Manager of WWE NXT in January 2024. Since then, she has been a prominent figure on NXT programming.

“I’m so proud of her. She has really come into her own. Who would have thought just being the NXT general manager she would just shine in?

I even said to her the other day, ‘This year has been so good for you.’ I feel her confidence has gotten bigger. She is running that show and with ease. I can’t wait to see where it goes.

I want to see her up here on the main roster, possibly doing a similar role as well,” Jax said.

Jax is set for an in-ring appearance at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025 this Saturday, teaming with Candice LeRae to face Tiffany Stratton and Trish Stratus.

The Rock Teases “Disruptive Moves” Ahead Of WWE Elimination Chamber: Toronto

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The Rock is coming to Elimination Chamber: Toronto, and the Final Boss is ready to disrupt the status quo. On X, fka Twitter, The Rock promised “disruptive moves” coming soon.

Rock’s bold comment comes after he appeared on the February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown, where he confronted Cody Rhodes. Rather than come to blows with his nemesis, The Rock expressed his desire for Cody to be his champion. The Final Boss wants Cody’s ‘soul’ and is awaiting the Undisputed WWE Champion’s answer at Elimination Chamber: Toronto.

The return of the Brahma Bull in the midst of WrestleMania season has led to speculation of what role The Rock will play this April in Las Vegas. While Cody’s WrestleMania 41 challenger should be determined in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, fans can’t count out The Rock disrupting plans to fuel his own agenda. Whatever’s coming, The Rock is ready to make some serious waveson March 1, in Toronto.

Kurt Angle Explains Why He Doesn’t Shy Away From His Dark Past

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Many wrestlers from the Attitude Era battled with issues like addiction but a lot of them do not like to talk about it. Kurt Angle is different, however, as the Olympic Gold Medallist does not shy away from discussing his past mistakes. He is very open about his pill and alcohol addiction through his early WWE and TNA days.

The WWE Hall of Famer recently had an interview with TribLive to talk about a new movie about his life that is in the works. The film will focus on Angle’s journey from his childhood through his victory in the Olympics.

During the interview, Kurt Angle also talked about his past demons and explained that he always talks about it in hopes that people will learn from his mistakes:

“It is important I use that platform to be able to talk about my life story and hopefully help people out by talking about mistakes I’ve made about my addiction, how I overcame that, and what I had to do to make that happen,”

I’m Happy To Motivate People: Kurt Angle

Kurt Angle explained that he wants people dealing with similar issues to take inspiration from his own journey and know that they can also get their life in order if they try:

“I am a pretty open book about my life. I want to share that with people to hopefully give them motivation to go ahead and get their lives in order if it has turned into a mess.

I tell them my story and how I have been clean and sober for more than 14 years. I get a lot of great responses. I am just happy to be able to motivate people to better their lives.”

The wrestling legend had recently detailed his mindset during those times and opened up about the passing of his sister due to drug overdose. You can check out his comments on the matter here.

Drew McIntyre Provides Update On His Knee Before Elimination Chamber

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Drew McIntyre has opened up about getting his knee drained and his status for Elimination Chamber this Saturday.

The Scottish Warrior wrestled a singles match against Jimmy Uso on this past Friday’s SmackDown. In an Instagram story, the WWE star revealed that he had to get his knee drained 45 minutes before the bout that opened the show.

The former World Champion was asked if he has any concerns about the knee during a media call to promote Saturday’s PLE. McIntyre noted that the doctor was not thrilled about the whole thing but he does not have a lot of concerns:

“I mean, I have no concerns with the knee personally. I couldn’t bend it fully, unfortunately, and I told the doctor, ‘Listen, like let’s get this fluid out.’ He wasn’t exactly over the moon about it, but medically it was safe or I wouldn’t have done it in the first place. But it was legitimately 45 minutes before the match. I told him, ‘This is going to hinder me in the match.'”

You Don’t Have To Hand Me A Thing: Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre unfortunately ended up losing the bout against Jimmy Uso. He then brutally attacked the Bloodline member after the bell. Talking about his post-match actions and the upcoming Elimination Chamber match, he said that he wouldn’t miss the PPV even if he had to duct tape himself together for it:

“I’m not one to make excuses, I’m not going to say that’s why Jimmy got himself the biggest victory of his damn career and had his WrestleMania moment at my expense, but yeah, to put it simply, I’m not a pussy. A lot of the guys are now.

I said get that out. I’ve got a show to put on. I’ve got a performance to do and this is affecting me, so we took that fluid out. I got in the ring and I did my job. I left Jimmy not looking like a winner, that’s for sure. I’ll be good by Elimination Chamber.

If I have to tape myself together to get in the ring with the likes of Punk, Seth, and John Cena, people I really want to be in there with. Show the world that Drew McIntyre belongs on top. You don’t have to hand me a thing, I’ll keep taking and taking and taking and showing why I belong on top. That’s a match I’m not going to miss, if I have to hold myself together with duct tape.”

Drew McIntyre will be entering the Elimination Chamber cage hoping to win a shot at Cody Rhodes’ WWE Championship at WrestleMania. You can check out more details about the show here.

Vince McMahon Plotting WWE Rival Promotion While Fox ‘Holds Spot’ for Potential Return (Rumor)

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Vince McMahon may have plans to launch a new entertainment production company, once his legal matters with Janel Grant are behind him. Now, new revelations have suggested that McMahon could be looking at stepping back in the ring with a new wrestling promotion. UPDATE –

On the 83 Weeks podcast with Eric Bischoff, Conrad Thompson shared that he’d heard rumors of McMahon rehiring former WWE execs as well as speaking with experienced wrestling camera operators. Bischoff shared that he’s heard similar rumblings.

Thompson explained that he’s heard that FOX may be “holding a spot” for McMahon and his hypotehtical wrestling promotion. He pointed out, however, that FOX and wrestling have a complicated relationship, with FOX execs reportedly unhappy with how SmackDown fared on the network from 2019 to 2024. Thompson cast doubt over the idea of McMahon re-enterinng the wrestling world, he wasn’t prepared to ignore “these whispers in the background.”

When pondering if McMahon would like to return to the world of wrestling promotion, Bischoff believes McMahon’s answer would be an emphatic “F*** yeah!” While Bischoff believes that McMahon’s ideology to “conquer” whatever he wishes has never waned, he shared that this doesn’t necessarily mean the 79-year-old billionaire will try and launch a new promotion.

All plans for McMahon in the entertainment world could hinge on the Janel Grant lawsuit, which continues to loom over McMahon, WWE, and former Head of Talent John Laurinaitis. With McMahon’s past in business, one can’t count out a promotion by the former WWE chief, no matter how unlikely it may seem.

WWE NXT Preview for Tonight: The Hardys, Moose & Title Matches

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WWE NXT rolls into Cincinnati, Ohio, tonight with championship stakes, legendary returns, and fresh rivalries igniting the Andrew J. Brady Music Center.

The February 25, 2025, episode, airing live at 8 PM ET on The CW, promises a night of memorable action. Headlining the show, NXT Women’s North American Champion Stephanie Vaquer defends her title for the first time against Karmen Petrovic. After Petrovic outlasted the competition to earn her shot, she’ll look to topple “The Dark Angel” in a high-energy showdown.

Meanwhile, TNA X-Division Champion Moose crosses over to NXT, putting his gold on the line against NXT Heritage Cup Champion Lexis King in a clash of titans that’s sure to steal the spotlight.

The Hardy Boyz—Matt and Jeff Hardy—bring their iconic legacy back to a WWE ring, facing off against No Quarter Catch Crew’s Tavion Heights and Myles Borne. This tag team collision blends nostalgia with hard-hitting action.

Plus, newcomer Ricky Saints makes his in-ring debut alongside Je’Von Evans, taking on the dangerous duo of Ethan Page and Wes Lee in a match ripe with tension and potential fireworks.

WWE NXT Preview: February 25, 2025

Confirmed matches and segments:

  • NXT Women’s North American Championship: Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Karmen Petrovic
  • TNA X-Division Championship: Moose (c) vs. Lexis King
  • The Hardy Boyz (Matt & Jeff Hardy) vs. Tavion Heights & Myles Borne
  • Ricky Saints & Je’Von Evans vs. Ethan Page & Wes Lee

What Happened Last Week?

Ahead of tonight’s WWE NXT, here’s a quick recap of last week’s show:

  • Karmen Petrovic won a Triple Threat match to become No. 1 Contender for the NXT Women’s North American Championship
  • Lexis King called out Moose, setting the stage for their title clash
  • Ethan Page and Wes Lee ambushed Je’Von Evans backstage
  • Ricky Saints signed his NXT contract in a celebratory segment

Mick Foley: WWE’s Matches Are Better Today Than Ever

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Mick Foley is known among fans as the Hardcore Legend, but the former WWE Champion has no problem with WWE’s modern-day, more safety-driven era. Speaking to SportingTalk, Foley shared why the introduction of PG, a gripe among countless fans, was necessary.

“Wrestling is always evolving and we have to for survival.”

Foley highlighted how WWE changed the wrestling world in the 1980s in a manner that upset “purists” at the time. Not only does Foley not have an issue with how the industry has changed since his days in the ring, but he believes things have improved since then.

 “I think the matches are better on a whole than they’ve ever been, and I see danger in a different way.”

Foley highlighted how the much quicker style of wrestling today can be just as dangerous for wrestlers, even without the use of hardcore weapons of gallons of blood being lost. Reflecting on the Attitude Era many fans hold dear to this day, Foley pointed out how the violent, risque nature of programming at the time created its own problems.

“I know how frustrated we were in the Attitude Era that our ratings were through the roof and we couldn’t get sponsors like nobody would touch us yes and so I definitely understand why WWE moved in the direction they did they.”

While many fans still hold the Attitude Era near to their hearts, wrestling’s constant evolution led to changes that have proved beneficial to WWE and its parent company TKO. While Foley’s days in the ring are over, the legend is pleased that the business is still going strong to this day.

Dwayne Johnson Shares Sad Passing Of Pet Dog Hobbs

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Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson recently made a blockbuster return to WWE, but the Final Boss is now mourning the loss of his beloved pooch Hobbs. On Instragram, Johnson shared that Hobbs, named after his Fast & Furious franchise character, passed away this week. Though Johnson and his family have been left “numb over this loss,” they are grateful for the love Hobbs gave them and that “he didn’t suffer long” before passing away “quietly and bravely in the night.”

Johnson’s comments reflect the deep connection he had with the dog and is sadly not the only name in wrestling to have loved a furry family member. In October 2024, Cora Jade shared that her dog Stitch had died after previously going missing. Mere months earlier, ‘Joe Gacy ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin shared that his cat Lefty had passed away, leaving Pancho, another pet, upset. Austin rectified this by adopting a kitten named Macho, with the moniker coming from fellow WWE Hall of Famer ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage.

The Rock will be a part of this weekend’s Elimination Chamber PLE in Toronto, where he hopes to get the ‘right answer’ from Cody Rhodes. During the February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown, The Rock confronted Rhodes, who he hopes will agree to be the Final Boss’ Champion.

We here at SEScoops would like to share our condolences to Johnson and his family over the passing of Hobbs.

Ludwig Kaiser: Penta Has Been Stealing Attention From Me In WWE

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On the February 24, edition of WWE Raw, Ludwig Kaiser handed Penta his first loss on the red brand by winning a triple-threat that included Pete Dunne. The finish of the match saw Kaiser push Penta out of the ring so that he could captalize and pin the Bruiserweight.

In a WWE Digital Exclusive, Cathy Kelley alluded to Kaiser ‘stealing’ the win from Penta, an accusation the German rejected.

“Penta has been stealing attention from Ludwig Kaiser since the day he walked into this company, isn’t that right? And you’re standing here talking to me like I was stealing anything, no. I wasn’t stealing anything.”

Not only did Kaiser reject the idea that he ‘stole the win,’ but he shared to Kelley what he actually has been doing throughout his singles run.

“What I’ve been doing is working hard, being humble, going out there, hitting every ball they’re throwing at me out the park, that’s what I’ve been doing, I have not been stealing anything.”

Amidst all he’s been doing, Kaiser “punished” Penta this week by taking what Ludwig believes Penta cares about most, the attention that has been on the masked star since his arrival. Kaiser concluded by vowing that 2025 will be his year and that Penta will soon be “no more.”

Kayla Braxton Recalls Her Disastrous Bump Class Experience In WWE

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Kayla Braxton has detailed her reaction to her only bump in WWE.

The former WWE broadcaster recently had an interview with After We Wrap podcast. She talked about things such as working with Roman Reigns in WWE, her love for horror movies, and more.

During the interview, Braxton also told the story of her only bump in WWE. She revealed that announcers used to have to take bump classes to protect themselves from any unforeseen incidents in the ring:

“The announcers used to have to take a bump class just in case we’re in the ring and something went wrong we had to learn how to fall without getting hurt, in our high heels.

So I put on, I don’t know if you ever saw tough enough, but I had a tough enough helmet to make sure I was all locked in. Michael Cole was watching me with his camera because he thought it would be really funny to show everybody.”

They Make It Look Easy: Kayla Braxton

Unfortunately for Kayla Braxton, she forgot the basic rule for taking bumps and ended up getting the wind knocked out of her:

“Then I fell on my back and I didn’t tuck, you have to tuck your chin and I didn’t tuck my chin so my neck snaps back. Felt like I got hit by a truck. I crawled away whimpering.

That was the only time I ever took a bump. Anytime someone’s like, ‘Would you ever consider getting in the ring and wrestling?’ ‘No, absolutely not.’ It’s terrible. But they make it look easy.”

Kayla Braxton ended her 8-year-long WWE run in July last year. According to her, she had outgrown her role in the company and decided to end her tenure to be able to pursue other projects.

GUNTHER Vows To End Jey Uso’s Career At WrestleMania 41

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World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER plans to not only beat Jey Uso at WWE WrestleMania 41 but also end the career of the ‘Main Event’ talent. Taking to X (fka Twitter) after defeating Akira Tozawa on the February 24, edition of WWE Raw, GUNTHER compared the man he beat to the man he’ll face this April.

“Last week, I let the people know that they’re not smart enough to understand my art. So today, I had to send an official example to a person that is exactly like Jey Uso. [Akira] Tozawa is a clown. So much potential, just like Jey but they both made the wrong decision. Tozawa paid for it today. Jey is going to pay for it at WrestleMania.”

GUNTHER ended by threatening to end Jey Uso’s wrestling career when they battle in April and had another job propspect lined up for former Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion.

“[Facing me is] the greatest mistake he’s ever made. His career is going to end at WrestleMania, and he can look into a future as a server at his favorite Waffle House.”

Jey earned his title shot against GUNTHER by winning the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match, shockingly eliminating John Cena in the WWE icon’s final Rumble match. While the vast majority of the WWE Universe are behind Jey heading into WrestleMania, GUNTHER is prepared to spoil the party for the YEET army, and end Jey Uso’s career in the process.

LA Knight Battles WWE Grand Slam Champion After Raw In Cincinnati

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The action didn’t stop after the February 24, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw went off the air as LA Knight wowed the crowd in Cincinnati, Ohio. In a dark match, Knight faced off with Ohio’s own The Miz in singles competiton. Despite the match coming in Miz’s home-state, the Cincinnati crowd were firmly behind Knight, who got the win to send the crowd home happy.

Though Knight is a SmackDown Superstar, his appearance after Raw wasn’t entirely a surprise. Shortly before the show went life, it was reported that Knight had been spotted in Cincinatti. Though this left some speculating he’d appear on the broadcast, his role was only for those live in the arena.

WWE Raw – February 24, 2024

WWE Raw served as the final episode of the red brand ahead of Elimination Chamber 2025, with several storylines connecting into the show. On Raw, Cody Rhodes addressed The Rock’s offer to be his champion, and admitted that he has to think about what’s best for his family. Raw also saw Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez win the WWE Women’s Tag Titles, with the duo becoming the first-ever team to win the gold on three occasions.

TKO Nearly Doubles In Value In Latest Win For Ari Emanuel

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Ari Emanuel, the corporate powerhouse who serves as CEO and executive chairman of TKO Group Holdings, has reached billionaire status for the first time of his life. Emanuel was added to the Bloomberg Billionaire index for his personal wealth, signifying his vast fortune. In addition to his role with TKO, Emanuel serves as the CEO of Endeavor Group Holdings, who launched TKO (which consists of WWE and UFC) in September 2023.

TKO has nearly doubled in value over the past 12 months, with the share price increasing by 48% over the last year. The company is now valued at over $27 billion, and recently added Professional Bull Riders to its portfolio. While Emanuel isn’t an on-screen figure for WWE, he has been referenced on programming by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who serves as part of TKO’s Board of Directors.

While Emanuel’s fortunes continue to soar, many in TKO have been left feeling drained. This week, it was reported that there are several backstage issues, including an increased workload that can reach up to 60 hours a week. Reducing employee perks has also led to staff members increasingly feeling undervalued. WWE has ditched its previous policy allowing employees to purchase stock with a 15% reduction in price. Complimentary WWE tickets have also been nixed, in another blow to company morale.

With WWE’s female Superstars also having concerns, morale has taken a turn in WWE on the road to WrestleMania 41. Nevertheless, the success of TKO can’t be ignored, while Ari Emanuel will be more than pleased to have reached billionaire status.

WWE Employees Gutted About Stalling Compensations As CEO Ari Emanuel Reaches Billionaire Status

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WWE has been experiencing a period of record growth and posting unprecedented profits but the benefits of this boom do not seem to be far-reaching within the organization. A new report from Wrestlenomics has chronicled multiple issues that have led to a decline in employee morale behind the scenes since the WWE-UFC merger in September 2023.

A big reason for this merger was to consolidate services under the branding of Endeavor, which resulted in significant layoffs in multiple departments at the time.  Since then, the workload for the remaining employees has increased significantly with some people saying that they’re working 50 to 60 hours per week, particularly during the WrestleMania season. In addition to the responsibility in their WWE role, many have also been assigned additional UFC-related tasks.

The compensation for employees has not kept up with the increased workload, however, with multiple staff members saying that they’ve received a meagre 3% cost-of-living raise this year. Many with strong performance reviews, have been told they would not be receiving comparable raises due to budget constraints set by upper management.

The same constraints do not seem to apply to the top brass, however. In addition to bonuses received by top executives at the time of the merger, the nearly 50% increase in Endeavor Group Holdings shares since the time has helped people in administrative positions amass more wealth. The TKO Group Holdings CEO Ari Emanuel has reached billionaire status for the first time thanks to this significant increase in share values this month. This is in stark contrast to the cost-of-living raises given to employees which many argue hardly keeps pace with the rising living costs around the areas of WWE Headquarters in Connecticut and New York

In addition to the limited increase in pay, reducing employee perks has also led to staff members increasingly feeling undervalued, while the management continues to emphasize the value of its workforce in town hall meetings. Some significant perks that have been discontinued include the removal of the peer-recognition initiative called ‘WWE Superstar’, as well as the elimination of complimentary live event tickets for employees.

This decline is in addition to frustration within the talent side, specifically among the female roster members. It’s been reported recently that female talents have been frustrated with their WrestleMania build and a recent WWE departure has left many feeling insecure about their position. You can check out more about it here.

Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez Win WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles

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Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez are the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions after winning the gold in the main event of the February 24, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw. The finish of the match saw Raquel prevent Naomi from hitting the split legged moonsault and then ram Naomi head into the post. With Naomi out cold, Morgan got the pinfall to end the reign of the Glow and Bianca Belair.

Belair and Naomi had been recognized as tag team champions since November 2024. Belair had held the gold since August’s Bash In Berlin PLE, where she won the gold since Jade Cargill. After Cargill was taken out by a mystery assailant, Naomi replaced her in the tag team.

This loss raises questions as to how Cargill will respond once she’s back, as she has lost a title in WWE without even being a part of the match. Many fans predict that either Belair or Naomi were behind the attack, an act that would turn either woman heel. Both have accused Liv and Raquel of being the attackers, though they have denied the claim.

This victory makes Liv Morgan a record-tying four-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, while Raquel Rodriguez is now a three-time champion. As a team, this is the third reign for the Judgment Day members.

How Did The Rock’s Appearance Affect SmackDown TV Ratings

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The Rock returned to WWE last week to cut an awkward promo on Cody Rhodes and help kick the SmackDown ratings into the WrestleMania gear.

The months after Royal Rumble is usually the period that sees an increased interest in WWE programming as the company builds storylines for the Show of Shows. This hadn’t been the case for SmackDown whose ratings had more or less been steady in the past few weeks but it changed with the February 21 show.

Despite The Rock’s WWE return coming together very quickly, the Great One’s comeback generated enough buzz for The Blue Branded show to garner 1,736,000 viewers overnight per Programming Insider.

This is a huge increase for the show from last week’s 1,384,000 overnight viewers, which featured multiple qualifying matches for the Elimination Chamber and an appearance from Cody Rhodes.

The show also saw an increase in the key 18-49 demo which rose up to 0.51. This is a significant increase from last week’s 0.42 rating.

The Rock is not advertised for this week’s episode of SmackDown but the company will continue to unravel the meaning of his promo on the show.

The People’s Champion will return to WWE programming the night after. The Hollywood star has been announced for the Elimination Chamber PPV on March 1, where he will expect an answer from The American Nightmare on his proposal.

Carmella Breaks Silence After Unceremonious End To WWE Run

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Carmella has broken her silence for the first time since the unceremonious end of her 12-year run with WWE earlier this month.

The former Women’s Champion posted a short video on Instagram thanking fans who have reached out and shown their appreciation since the news broke. She also mentioned how there’s a lot of uncertainty around her future. The female star noted that she has ‘a lot’ to say and promised to jump on a podcast this week to address her WWE departure in more detail:

“Hi guys. I am aware I’ve been MIA for the last week. If you can’t tell I’m so sick. I’ve been sick for over a week now. There’s also obviously been a lot happening. Some news broke last week and I just wanted to let you know that I’ve seen all of your texts and tweets and messages and DMs and like oh my god, you guys are just the best.

I’m so grateful for you and everything that you’ve been saying about Carmella and my career and I’m so blessed. So thank you. I know there’s a lot of questions and uncertainty around everything. I will be going on a podcast later this week, answering some of those questions and telling my side because I have a lot to say about the situation. So yes, stay tuned, I’ll give you the details later when I can and I can’t wait to fill you guys in.”

The news of Carmella’s WWE deal expiring first broke out earlier last week. The company then moved her to the alumni section of their website. The former champion herself also changed her name on various social platforms to essentially confirm that the two parties were no longer working together.

The Staten Island Princess had not been active in the ring since March 2023, when she took maternity leave from the company. She gave birth to a son in November 2023, but health complications arising from childbirth have prevented the wrestling veteran from making an in ring return.