WWE Superstar The Big Show recently appeared on the Gorilla Position podcast. During the interview the 7 foot 2 giant would discuss a litany of topics from his career; including the brand new ‘The Big Show Show’ that is coming to Netflix.
This is arguably the biggest out of the ring opportunity that Paul Wright/The Big Show has had in his career. Big Show has previously appeared in motion pictures, such as Adam Sandler’s The Waterboy, but this is the first ‘vehicle’ for the WWE Superstar that has seen him be the main focus.
Big Show on Joining WCW
Show would start the interview with Gorilla Position by describing how different opportunities are now as opposed to when he first joined WCW in 1995. “No, I’m not even close to being were I was when I first started” Big Show began. “I was a kid from South Carolina, and I’m still [then] blown away that I’m working in the same ring with Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Ric Flair and Arn Anderson. It’s like I should get an autograph before they figure out that I shouldn’t be here and kick me out!”
The Chance To Appear on Netflix
Big Show
Big Show elaborated further, saying “to understand where our business has grown since then and the opportunities are available now for for all the talent across the board. So many different avenues of being able to build their brand, to build a worldwide brand. And a lot of talents are doing that now, [even] for me to end up with my own TV show in partnership with Netflix. Big Show would also reveal that he has been pushing for this sort of opportunity for years. Although he had no idea that it would lead to such a slot on a massive streaming service.
“I think he probably knew that if he didn’t let me have this opportunity I was gonna like come into his office and throw things out of the window”
Big Show
“I drove Vince [McMahon] nuts for years, about trying to get me a vehicle like this” Big Show revealed. “From trying to have my own segment on RAW or Smackdown. Even something like when we got the WWE Network like ‘hey, I should have my own show I could do this, I could do that.’ And when this partnership came up with Netflix and WWE; I’m so thankful and grateful that Vince let me lead the charge on this opportunity. I think he probably knew that if he didn’t let me have this opportunity I was gonna like come into his office and throw things out of the window.”
‘The Big Show Show’ premieres only on Netflix on April 6th, check out the trailer for the new series below:
All Elite Wrestling’s Jim Ross has been missing from the promotion’s announce team in recent weeks. The decision to minimize his travel was made to protect him from potential unnecessary exposure to the coronavirus. During an interview with WrestlingInc.com, Ross explained how he and AEW President Tony Khan had a long conversation before coming to the decision.
“Tony Khan and I had a very long and thoughtful talk that he initiated. I’m an asset for that company in his view, and mine too, and he said I’ve got to protect you because he knows I won’t protect myself,” Ross explained.
“So, the decision was to stay home for a couple of days and I’m not gonna be on Dynamite this week or next until we see where this thing is headed. If it gets worse, I’m 68 and in a high-risk group. I don’t wanna die. I don’t wanna get the flu because my ego says I’ve gotta be on TV. ‘Oh I can’t lose my spot, because then I won’t get my push!’ Stop. Please.”
Jim Ross On Maintaining Growth
Jim Ross stressed how pro wrestling isn’t the same as the NFL, NBA, or MLB. He noted how what they do is a “theatrical presentation and a TV show.” He added how it’s not about selling tickets right now.
Instead, delivering Dynamite is a means to give their fanbase a break from the “insanity” the world is dealing with. “It’s an entertainment show and I applaud all of those guys that are braving the elements and challenges of the coronavirus to put on an entertaining show on Wednesday nights.”
He talked about the importance of maintaining continuity before commenting on how it’s an “interesting time in our lives.” Ross then stressed how he believes pro wrestling isn’t in danger, but the industry needs to maintain its continual growth under the circumstances. “We’ve got to be smart and take into consideration what this virus is. We can never lose sight of what we’re facing right now.”
Although not present for Dynamite shows, Jim Ross has been providing a post-show breakdown. These are uploaded to AEW’s official YouTube channel. Ross has been doing these alongside fellow commentary members Taz and Excalibur.
AEW Dynamite aired live tonight from an undisclosed location. The remaining four wrestlers in the TNT Championship tournament revealed tonight.Kip Sabian, Dustin Rhodes, Colt Cabana, and Lance Archer completed the bracket and the tournament will begin next week.
Kenny Omega squared off against Trent in the first match of the night. Chuck Taylor and Orange Cassidy accompanied Trent to the ring. AEW wrestlers were once again back in the crowd for tonight’s episode.
Match Recap: Omega took Trent down to start things off and applied a Headlock. Trent broke free and caught him with a knee to the face. Kenny sent Trent to the corner and shoved his boot in his face. Omega unloaded a chop to Trent’s chest but Trent battled back with a Double Stomp that sent Kenny rolling out of the ring.
Trent connected with a Moonsault and shared a hug with Orange Cassidy and Chuck. Omega sprinted across the ring and flipped onto everyone on the outside. Back in the ring, Omega slammed Trent to the canvas and went for a cover but Trent kicked out at two.
Kenny connected with a Backbreaker and followed it up with two more of them for a near fall. Trent went to work on Kenny’s injured hand for the next few minutes of the match. Kenny battled back and Powerbombed Trent in a steel beam in the arena. The action returned to the ring and Kenny hit a Neckbreaker over his knee for a two count.
Trent connected with a Tornado DDT and followed it up with a Splash in the corner. Trent hung up Kenny in the ropes and planted him with a Baseball Slide German Suplex as Dynamite went to a break. When Dynamite returned, Kenny and Trent were trading chops with five minutes remaining.
Omega hit a knee to the face but Trent shrugged it off and hit a Piledriver for a near fall. Trent went for another Tornado DDT but Omega escaped and connected with a beautiful Snap Dragon Suplex. Kenny followed it up with a V-Trigger with two minutes remaining. Trent hit a Belly to Back Suplex off the top rope and Omega landed awkwardly. Omega then hit the One Winged Angel for the pinfall victory.
Opinion: Kenny Omega and Trent had a great match to start this week’s Dynamite. I really like how many minutes are left in the time limit throughout the match. It adds tension and made the last part of the match that much more intense. Hopefully Omega is alright after it appeared he landed on his neck. Trent has had several great singles matches in AEW already. He had a very good match with Jon Moxley and an awesome one with Omega tonight.
Lance Archer made his in-ring AEW debut tonight. Before the match, Jake Roberts claimed that Cody is afraid of Archer and Brandi Rhodes must wear the pants in the relationship. Archer then faced Marko Stunt.
Match Recap: Archer took out a worker on the way to the ring. Archer then leveled Stunt with a Clothesline and beat him down in the corner. Marko tried to fight back but Lance Archer sent him flying across the ring with a Release Suplex. Marko ran away and then hit Lance with a few Dropkicks in the corner.
Archer leveled Stunt with a shoulder tackle and sent him flying out of the ring. Lance then hit a massive Chokeslam and followed it up with the Blackout for the pinfall victory. After the match, Archer Chokeslammed Marko onto Billy and Austin Gunn.
Another vignette for the Exalted One aired this week. Brodie Lee stood in front of a TV with static and demanded that members of Dark Order refer to him as “Mr. Brodie”.
One of the members of Dark Order yawned and Brodie scolded him. Brodie said he looked weak and he cannot have that in Dark Order. Lee asked that he never yawn in his presence again and asked him to leave the room.
8 & 9 of Dark Order then faced Natural Nightmares (Dustin Rhodes & QT Marshall).
Match Recap: QT Marshall threw the mask that Brodie presented him last week in the air as a distraction to start things off. QT hit a couple of punches before Dustin tagged in. Rhodes hit an Arm Drag as a couple wrestlers chanted “you still got it!”.
Marshall tagged in and 8 & 9 took turns beating him down in the corner. QT battled back with a Suplex and tagged Dustin back in. Rhodes hit an Atomic Drop and followed it up with a Bulldog. Dustin planted #9 with a Powerslam and followed it up with a Cannonball off the apron. Back in the ring, Natural Nightmares hit a Flapjack for the pinfall victory.
After the match, Brodie Lee came down to the ring and Powerbombed the member of Dark Order that took the pinfall. Lee then stared at the other member of Dark Order before he left the ring.
Jericho cut a promo from in his hot tub and went on a rant about everyone in The Elite being morons. Vanguard 1 showed up behind Jericho as Chris turned his attention towards Matt Hardy.
Chris got up and said “Vanguard 1, I knew you’d come”. Jericho couldn’t bring himself to say the word “sorry” and once again tried to recruit Vanguard 1 to Inner Circle. Jericho presented Vanguard 1 with a tiny Inner Circle shirt.
Vanguard took off once again and Jericho whipped a bottle of bubbly at him. Jericho then shouted “release the hounds!” and his dogs then chased Vanguard 1 away to end the segment.
Opinion: This entire segment was hilarious but I think the most underrated part is that Jericho was apparently in the hot tub with pants and a belt on.
Sammy Guevara and Shawn Spears faced Cody and Darby Allin in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.
Match Recap: Spears started off the match in control and hit Cody with a shoulder tackle. Cody battled back with a boot to the face and tagged in Darby. Spears hit him with a punch to the face and tagged in Sammy. Guevara wanted to vlog instead and approached Brandi by the barricade. Sammy asked for a kiss and Brandi took his phone again. Darby leveled Sammy with a shoulder tackle and sent him flying into the barricade. Cody and Darby connected with dueling Suicide Dives as Dynamite went to a break.
When Dynamite returned, Sammy hit Darby with a knee to the face and knocked him out of the ring. Back in the ring, Guevara hit Allin with a Double Stomp and tagged Spears back in. Spears hit Darby with a chop to the chest. Sammy bet Shawn that he couldn’t hold up Darby in a stalling Suplex. Spears accepted the challenge, hung Darby up for ten seconds and won the money.
Spears then bet Sammy that he couldn’t do it for 15 seconds. Sammy accepted the bet and won. Shawn then went all in and tried to do it for 20 seconds but Darby rolled him up for a two count. Allin then planted Spears with a Suplex of his own as Cody pleaded for a tag in the corner.
Sammy missed with a Shooting Star Press and Cody tagged in. Cody hit Spears with an Enziguri and then delivered a Powerslam to Sammy for a near fall. Cody followed that up with a Cutter for another two count. Cody locked in the Sharpshooter but Spears broke it up. Cody then trapped Spears in a Figure Four but Sammy broke it up with a Shooting Star Press.
Guevara went for a Cutter but Cody countered into a Cross Rhodes. Spears dragged Spears out of the ring and threw him over the barricade. The heels in the crowd started beating Cody down as Dynamite went to a commercial.
Back from the break, Spears and Sammy had Cody trapped in the corner. Cody connected with a Moonsault and tagged in Darby. Allin took out Sammy and Spears with a Dropkick and followed it up a springboard Coffin Drop. Allin leveled Sammy with a Suicide Dive and went for one on Spears but he caught him.
Spears launched Darby into the barricade and placed him on top of it. Guevara hit Allin with a Dropkick and then turned around into a Splash from Cody. Back in the ring, Spears hit C4 and rolled Cody back to the outside. Allin climbed up the steel beam and hit a Coffin Drop onto Spears and Guevara.
Darby and Sammy then battled on the top turnbuckle. Sammy threw Darby into the barricade once again. Cody hit Sammy with a Reverse Suplex but Spears immediately hit Cody with a Frog Splash. Guevara slid a chair into the ring and Darby ripped it away. As Allin tossed the chair out of the ring, Spears capitalized on the distraction and rolled up Allin for the victory. After the match, Cody tried to help Allin up but Darby leveled him with a right hand. Allin then got pissed off and walked backstage to close the show.
— AUTHORS OF WRESTLING (@authofwrestling) April 2, 2020
Opinion: I loved that Darby Allin leveled Cody after the match because both men are in the upcoming tournament to crown the first TNT Championship. I do not think it was Darby turning heel, I believe it was supposed to signify that he was sick of losing and was frustrated.The tag match tonight was also solid and I enjoyed the mid-match gambling by Sammy and Spears.
Overall, this week’s episode of Dynamite was a very entertaining show with a couple of great matches. It was also announced that Moxley will defend his AEW Championship against Jake Hager in two weeks in an No Holds Barred Empty Arena match. You can check out a video package that aired to hype the match below.
The April 1, 2020 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from the Winter Park, Florida at Full Sail University.
The show was headlined by a Triple Threat Match for the NXT North American Title with Keith Lee defending against Damian Priest and Dominik Dijakovic.
WWE NXT Results (4/1)
The Velveteen Dream def. Bobby Fish
Dexter Lumis def. Jake Atlas
Dakota Kai def. Shotzi Blackheart, Deonna Purrazzo, Xia Li, Aliyah and Kayden Carter
KUSHIDA def. Joaquin Wilde
NXT North American Champion Keith Lee def. Damian Priest & Dominik Dijakovic
Here are the 4 takeaways from this week’s NXT show:
Second Chance Gauntlet Match
Dakota Kai
WWE held a Second Chance Gauntlet Match in order to determine who will get the final spot for the six-woman Ladder Match.
The Gauntlet featured Aliyah, Kayden Carter, Deonna Purrazzo, Shotzi Blackheart, Dakota Kai, and Xia Li. As seen in the contest, Kai ended up going over.
Other competitors in the Ladder Match include Io Shirai, Candice LeRae, Chelsea Green, Mia Yim, and Tegan Nox. The winner of the match will become the new #1 contender to the NXT Women’s Championship, which is currently held by Rhea Ripley.
The new #1 contender will earn a future title shot in a match that will take place after WrestleMania 36 due to Ripley defending the title against Charlotte Flair at this show.
Dexter Lumis, formerly known as Samuel Shaw, took on Jake Atlas in a singles match which marked the second contest of the night.
Lumis went over in the contest. This marked the television debut for Atlas.
Lumis was under contract with TNA (now known as Impact Wrestling) from 2010 – 2015 where he won the Gut Check competition.
He was announced as part of the Performance Center recruits by the WWE that started training at the facility in Orlando, Florida back in March 2019.
Trevor Lee, 3.0, Elliott Sexton, Nick Comoroto, Rachael Ellering, Karen Q, Jonah Rock, Ricardo Miller and Omari Palmer were also part of this class.
This comes a week after a vignette aired promoting Lumis’ return was aired on the program.
Lumis competed in a tournament named NXT Breakout Tournament last July. This marked his TV debut but he lost in the first round of the tournament to Bronson Reed.
The Velveteen Dream vs. Bobby Fish in a singles match is in the books as the match took place on this show.
It was a fine match but not as good as Dream’s bout with Roderick Strong that also took place on NXT TV. Dream went over in the contest.
Since Dream came back from being on the shelf with an injury, he hasn’t found his groove that he was in regarding his in-ring work for whatever reason. Perhaps, he’s not 100%.
Either way, he makes up for that with his character and promo work, which has always been fanatic.
Clearly, WWE is building up to Dream challenging NXT Champion Adam Cole for the strap. When that exactly happens is up in the air due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
A Triple Threat for the NXT North American Title with Keith Lee defending against Damian Priest and Dominik Dijakovic took place. This was the biggest match on the show.
As seen in the match, Lee went over in his latest successful title defense. This was the right call.
Not only due to Lee still having somewhat of a short reign thus far but no titles should change hands in front of no fans in attendance.
WWE has been building up this match involving these stars for a few months now. Lee has had his good share of matches with both stars within this time. Also, Priest and Dijakovic have battled as well.
Perhaps, WWE will move forward with Lee feuding with someone else following this match considering that they don’t have anything to back up as to why they should get another crack at the men’s secondary title on the NXT brand.
As expected, Jon Moxley vs. Jake Hager has been confirmed by All Elite Wrestling.
The promotion announced on Wednesday night that Moxley will make his next title defense as the AEW World Heavyweight Champion against Hager on the April 15th episode of Dynamite on TNT.
News of this contest was first broken by WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross while doing an interview with Dave Meltzer and Jim Valley on Wrestling Observer Radio earlier this week.
Also, the promotion has confirmed that this contest will be an Empty Arena No Holds Barred Match. The bout was taped last week.
This was expected to happen not only due to Ross’ comments but also because Hager has been climbing up the men’s rankings.
AEW Men’s Division
World Champion: Jon Moxley (8-0)
Chris Jericho (0-1)
Jake Hager (4-0) (+2)
Cody Rhodes (5-1)
Kenny Omega (2-0) (+1)
Darby Allin (4-2) (previously unranked)
Hager made his AEW in-ring debut against Dustin Rhodes which saw the enforcing for the Inner Circle go over at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view event in Chicago, IL back in February.
As of this writing, no other matches have been announced for this show but that is expected to change as it gets closer.
AEW has announced the full bracket for the TNT Title tournament.
There will be 8 competitors in the tournament. Originally, AEW hyped that the single-elimination tournament would feature the biggest names in AEW all vying for the inaugural TNT championship belt and they lived up to the expectation set.
All Elite Wrestling previously announced on Tuesday evening that Cody vs. Shawn Spears and Darby Allin vs. Sammy Guevara would be on the left side of the tournament.
Fans have picked up on the fact that both of these matches are rematches from previous AEW pay-per-view event events. Darby Allin defeated Sammy Guevara at AEW Revolution in February while Cody defeated Shawn Spears at AEW All Out in August.
On Wednesday before the episode of Dynamite on TNT, the promotion confirmed Kip Sabian vs. Dustin Rhodes and Lance Archer vs. Colt Cabana for the right side of the bracket.
The finals of the tournament will take place at the Double or Nothing pay-per-view event on Saturday, May 23, in Las Vegas.
Whether this event actually takes place remains to be seen as the outbreak of the coronavirus continues. In fact, the venue is not currently running shows as a result.
Triple H did an interview with Pwinsider.com to talk about a wide range of topics including the decisions made by WWE regarding the coronavirus and running shows.
More specifically, NXT, which did take a week off in mid-March with no matches or in-ring talking segments but rather aired three video packages. Since then, WWE has taped several episodes of the weekly show on the USA Network.
“There is that intimacy with NXT, but no matter what brand it is, Smackdown, NXT, whether it’s WrestleMania or whether it’s Takeover. You’re working for that reaction, and that is really what the performance is about. I think the shifting of that in some way, it’s a totally different mindset working in an empty arena.”
Triple H continued by noting how performers have talked about their performance and they go bigger in this direction because of that reaction. In this situation, they don’t have that reaction from fans so they’re trying to pull their best feelings out, for what those reactions would be and timing of things.
Despite those challenges, he thinks the talent has done a phenomenal job in this situation as they’ve all stepped up together as a team and helped each other out. By seeing them looking out for each other and giving each other advice, it’s inspiring to see.
“I think we all believe right now, and nobody is being required to do any of this, the talent aren’t required to do this, if they have a problem, they don’t perform. And nothing is going to be held against them.”
Triple H stated that while everybody has their own feelings on this and for the most part, their talent, crew, and staff want to do this. He called seeing their talent wanting to perform despite the circumstances is inspiring.
While at these tapings, Triple H brought up seeing the people there and everybody is having fun.
“They’re all banding together, feeling like they’re in this together and they’re in this challenging situation, but they’re all doing their best to make it work out.”
He brought up how it reminds him of when WWE used to go over to Iraq and Afghanistan under trying circumstances performing shows for the troops. He thinks it’s the same thing as there is a bond and a sense of camaraderie. He added that he’s all proud of them.
Seth Rollins spoke with Sports Illustrated to talk about a wide range of topics including WWE taping television from an empty Performance Center due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
There has been much of a debate over WWE holding WrestleMania 36 despite the problems around the world with the virus. The majority of fans think WWE made the wrong call regarding this event and believe the company should’ve postponed it.
While Rollins isn’t sure as he’s not a medical expert, he is glad to give some entertainment for the fans.
“Obviously the airports are still open. Should they close? I don’t know. I wish I had answers. I’m sure a lot of people do. Right now, I’m just trying to stay as hygienic as possible, keep my distance from as many people as I can.
As of now, I feel great. Knock on wood, I’ve been able to avoid this thing. I know a lot of families and people who have been affected by it. It’s extremely contagious and it’s very dangerous. I wish I had more answers. I wish I knew what was the right thing to do. After WrestleMania, we’re gonna recollect and see where we’re gonna go from here.”
Rollins continued by noting he’s very humble and grateful that he still has a job that still needs him. He understands that a lot of Americans are not in that boat and their futures are uncertain.
Thus, if providing them with some entertainment can help them out, then he feels like the company is being productive in doing something right.
WWE faces yet another hurdle due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
On Wednesday, the governor of Florida announced a statewide stay-at-home order that goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time on Friday, April 3 and will expire on April 30.
It could be extended by a subsequent order. The issue of the order is done to take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to the coronavirus for its citizens. Especially for senior citizens and those with underlying medical conditions.
This order also means that “all persons in Florida shall limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities.”
We’ve noted on the site before that WWE has already taped this Friday’s SmackDown, both nights of WrestleMania 36, and next Monday’s Raw. Also, NXT taped multiple episodes on March 22.
This comes after Orange County, Florida had already put a stay-at-home order into effect from March 26 to April 9.
There’s no word yet on what WWE plans to do about next week’s episode of Smackdown and TV episodes of all programming going forward aside from the dates mentioned above.
AEW has released its weekly rankings for April 1st, 2020. The promotion releases new top-5 rankings every Wednesday for its men’s, women’s and tag team divisions.
AEW Men’s Division
World Champion: Jon Moxley (8-0)
Chris Jericho (0-1)
Jake Hager (4-0) (+2)
Cody Rhodes (5-1)
Kenny Omega (2-0) (+1)
Darby Allin (4-2) (previously unranked)
There was quite a bit of movement in the men’s single’s division this week. Jake Hager moves up to the #2 spot after picking up a victory over Chico Adams on Dynamite.
Maxwell Jacob Friedman drops all the way out of the rankings this week likely due to inactivity. He had been ranked #2 last week. MJF wrestled just once in March after his victory over Cody at Revolution. He teamed with the Butcher and the Blade in a win over Jurassic Express on March 11th.
Kenny Omega moved up one spot this week after defeating Sammy Guevara in a AAA Mega Championship defense on Dynamite last week.
Darby Allin scored victories over Kip Sabian on Dynamite and over Preston Vance on Dark. The two wins move him into the top-5 rankings in the #5 spot.
Cody defeated Jimmy Havoc on Dynamite this week to move to 5-1 and retain his #3 ranking.
AEW Women’s Division
Champion: Nyla Rose (4-1)
Hikaru Shida (5-1)
Kris Statlander (2-3)
Yuka Sakazaki (1-1)
Britt Baker (2-2)
Riho (3-3)
There was no movement in the AEW Women’s division this week. There actually weren’t any matches in the division this week on either Dark or Dynamite likely due to travel restrictions.
AEW Tag Team Division
Champions: Kenny Omega & Hangman Page (6-0)
The Dark Order (5-0)
The Young Bucks (2-2)
SCU (2-3)
Lucha Bros (1-2)
Best Friends (3-3)
There was no movement in the tag-team division this week. There weren’t any tag-team matches on either Dynamite or Dark this week.
Impact Wrestling presented two shows on AXS TV last night. After the company’s regular weekly 2-hour show a special 1-hour TNA One-Night-Only special aired.
Impact Wrestling 3/31/20 Quick Results:
Josh Alexander defeated Eddie Edwards
Kylie Rae defeated Cassandra Golden
Moose defeated Kid Kash
Old School Rules Sami Callihan defeated Tommy Dreamer
Cody Deaner defeated Joey Ryan
Tessa Blanchard defeated Ethan Page
TNA Cross The Line 3/31/20 Quick Results:
Hernandez defeated Chase Stevens
Suicide & Manik defeated Kid Kash & Johnny Swinger
Rhino defeated Madman Fulton via DQ
Building To Tessa Blanchard vs Michael Elgin vs Eddie Edwards
In the main event this week, Tessa Blanchard defeated Ethan Page. Eddie Edwards came out to ringside and prevented Josh Alexander from getting involved in the match. This allowed Blanchard to hit Magnum on Page for the win. Earlier in the evening, Page had helped Alexander score the upset victory over Edwards but then Blanchard came out to prevent the 2-on-1 attack from the North. Edwards then repaid the favor to her in this match here.
After the match, however, Michael Elgin hit the ring and took out both Blanchard and Edwards with a clothesline. Elgin attempted to powerbomb Blanchard but Edwards hit him with a kick and the two babyfaces stood tall in the ring while Elgin stared at them from the outside to end the show.
It’s not clear when we will get this match but when we do, Michael Elgin will likely stop at nothing to come away with the belt.
Raven Attacks Tommy Dreamer As Rivalry Will Never Die
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hC_mIbmJSE
Rhino was just about to finish off Madman Fulton with a Gore in the main event of TNA Cross the Line this week. OVE came out and caused the disqualification, however. This brought out Tommy Dreamer who attempted to make the save but OVE still held the numbers advantage until the lights in the arena went out. When the lights came back on Raven was in the ring with a kendo stick and he promptly took out OVE leaving him alone in the ring with his rival Tommy Dreamer.
While it looked as though Raven was going to help his old rival, he then hit him in the head with a kendo stick and left the arena. This allowed OVE to go back on the attack against the babyfaces. The locker room then spilled out with TNA stars as they cleared OVE from the ring.
The TNA No Place Like Home event has been postponed. There is currently no word on when or where the event will take place but Impact is said to be looking into alternative ways to produce both it and the Rebellion PPV as well as other postponed shows. A disclaimer on the show this week directed fans to ImpactWrestling.com for more details.
Big Proper Pump? Scott Steiner Has No Time For Cancel Culture
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv864iNsfBc
On the TNA special following Impact this week, Scott Steiner cut a promo about how he is not very politically incorrect. This brought out Joseph Ryan who said that Steiner should have been canceled along time ago and offered him a spot in Cancel Culture. Ryan suggested he go by the name “Big Proper Pump.”
Steiner promptly tossed Ryan out of the ring and rejected his offer, however.
Sami Callihan and Tommy Dreamer Get Hardcore
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb2MFRlZSmM
Sami Callihan cut a promo this week on Impact saying that Ken Shamrock doesn’t get to cut the line here in this company. This brought out Tommy Dreamer who took umbrage with Callihan hitting Shamrock with a fireball recently. They then went at it in an old-school rules match which in Impact is a hardcore match or a street fight.
Callihan would pick up the victory but things continued after the match was over. Rhino came out to save Dreamer but that brought out the members of OVE who then had the numbers advantage over the extreme legends. It appears that Callihan might not be as aligned with his former cronies as much these days as instead of celebrating in the ring with the faction, the lights went out and when they went back on Callihan was gone and the rest of OVE was left alone standing in the ring.
Cody Deaner Avoids Cancellation via Cancel Culture
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj_qbAzjCe0
Rob Van Dam and Katie Forbes didn’t join their Cancel Culture stablemate “Joseph Ryan” at ringside this week. Josh Mathews explained that the pair did not want to be around the Deaners’ “toxic masculinity.”
Deaner was able to pick up the victory after Cousin Jake got involved on the outside. Jake poured beer into the mouth of Ryan which set up a DDT from Deaner for the win. On commentary, they mentioned that Ryan may not be doing himself any favors by choosing not to use his “powers.”
Suzie’s Back, Realizes She’s Su Yung and Has Stabbed People…Which Is Wrong
"I realize I'm @realsuyung – Su Yung stabbed people and put them in coffins. That's bad."
Suzie is back. Su Yung’s less murderous persona appeared in a backstage segment this week after Su Yung and Havok went on an epic journey through the undead realm last week. Havok ultimately stabbed, killed, and sent James Mitchell to heaven in the segment. This week, Suzie was seen making the Deaners uncomfortable in the back. She mentioned that she now realizes that she is Su Yung as well but likes being just Suzie.
Kylie Rae Signs With Impact Wrestling
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHzp80tjWLM
Popular Chicago-based wrestler Kylie Rae has signed a long-term contract with Impact Wrestling. She announced her signing in a backstage segment this week after having disposed of Cassandra Golden in single’s competition.
“I’m going to tell you how it feels, it feels amazing,” Kylie Rae said backstage. “You know what? It’s been one emotional year. We’ve had highs, we’ve had lows, we’ve had ups, we’ve had downs. But I knew from the moment that I stepped in this Impact wrestling ring, the arena, this is my home. I felt that, I felt that. That’s why I’m very proud to announce Kylie Rae just signed a long-term wrestling contract with Impact Wrestling baby!”
Reno Scum Attack Rich Swann On Behalf Of Ace Austin
Rich Swann is still on the injured list but was interviewed from his home this week. Swann said that he feels Mack will defeat Austin for the X-division title but the current champ interrupted the interview. Austin tried to sow the seeds of dissension between Mack and Swann, telling Swann that Mack seemed quite happy to move on without him. There was then a knock at Swann’s door and Austin informed him that he sent Reno Scum after him. Mack then tried to get at Austin later in a backstage segment.
Moose Takes Out TNA Alumni Kid Kash
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGTxwmscsVQ
Moose has been vocally critical of the former TNA Wrestling. This week, he faced former X-Division champion Kid Kash. Before the match, Kash cut a promo telling Moose he wouldn’t have cut it in the original TNA. Moose’s trash-talking of TNA probably won’t decrease after this match, however, as he was able to put away Kash with the No-Jackhammer-Needed spear.
Next Week On Impact Wrestling
The following matches were announced for next week’s episode of Impact Wrestling:
WWE Hall of Famer and co-host of Busted Open Radio Bully Ray recently discussed the events of the Monday Night RAW. This week’s episode was once again filmed with no live audience, and a lot of the promo work was shot ‘backstage.’
Bully would compare the work between the ‘big 4’ promos on the show; notably Kevin Owens, Edge, Undertaker and Paul Heyman.
Bully Ray on Edge and Undertaker
“‘Takers promo was good, Edge’s promo was great,” Bully Ray began. “They were all [the big four], you know, all of them did a phenomenal job. But there was a reason why Edge’s was better. But man, all of these people talking to us. Edge made me want to put my hands in my pocket and pull out money to plop down on a pay per view.”
This will of course be Edge’s first singles match back in a WWE ring since 2011, following his return from a neck injury that kept him out of action. It was originally believed that Edge would never be able to return, but seemingly he has the fire and passion to cut some of the best promo work of his career over the past few months.
Selling Fans on a PPV
“And whenever I’m teaching students at the Team 3d Academy, and I’m teaching them about the art of the promo? I say I tell them you have one job at the end of this promo” Bully Ray elaborated.
“That one job is that when you’re done talking, no matter what you say, and no matter how long you say it for. Whether that’s one second, one minute, or five minutes. The idea is to make the fan want to put their hands in their pocket and plunk down 20 bucks for a T shirt. Plunk down 50 bucks for a pay per view, plunk down whatever for a ticket. And those four promos last night from ‘Taker, Edge. Owens and Paul? They all made me want to do it.”
“The only part I don’t think I liked? Is when ‘Taker said: ‘you mentioned her.'”
– Bully Ray
Bully Ray would then go into why he felt Edge’s promo was better, citing the fact that Undertaker’s may have felt a little bit more ‘scripted’ in execution. “Taker had me hook line and sinker” Bully began. “The only part I don’t think I liked? Is when ‘Taker said: ‘you mentioned her.’ [He] was telling AJ ‘you mentioned her,’ I knew that he was talking about his wife Michelle. But then when he had to go ahead and say her whole name Michelle McCool? I went, ‘Ah, don’t tell me her whole name I know her whole name already!’ that felt a little forced to me.”
Styles Clash vs Faithbreaker
Ray would then move on to the fact that Undertaker was trying to bring the Styles Clash vs Faithbreaker conversation into the story. With Michelle McCool seemingly ‘borrowing’ AJ’s move in the early 2010’s.
“Bringing up the name of the finish that Michelle McCool used, which is basically the styles clash, I guess she had given another name? That felt a little bit forced.”
“I personally never saw Michelle McCool use the finish. I know they showed me maybe footage once of it. I’m really not associating Michelle McCool with the Styles Clash, so it almost came across to me like Undertaker was really pushing his wife. To get over her. That part right there felt like a little bit of a round peg in a square hole. So that’s why I said his stuff was good because I loved everything that he did. And I especially loved his holy trinity line.”
The overwhelming feeling from both Bully Ray and co-host Dave LaGreca was that the promos from Monday Night RAW were more than enough to convince people to purchase WrestleMania 36 this weekend. For the first time ever the event is being held over two nights, and will now be available to purchase on FITE TV.
Do you feel that Edge’s and Undertaker’s promos were enough to get you to watch WrestleMania this weekend? Let us know in the comments
AEW announced half of the brackets for the upcoming TNT Championship tournament last night on Dark. The other half of the bracket will be announced tonight on Dynamite. The 8-wrestler single-elimination tournament is set to begin on April 8th and is scheduled to conclude at Double or Nothing.
The left-side of the bracket is as follows:
Cody vs Shawn Spears
Darby Allin vs Sammy Guevara
Both matches are rematches from previous AEW PPV events. Darby Allin defeated Sammy Guevara at AEW Revolution. Cody defeated Shawn Spears at AEW All Out.
Tony Khan was quoted in a press release announcing the tournament.
“It’s been a privilege working with Kevin Reilly and TNT to bring fans the best live wrestling show week after week on AEW: DYNAMITE, especially during these tumultuous times,” said Tony Khan, president and CEO of AEW.
“I’m glad we’re now able to announce the TNT CHAMPIONSHIP. The first ever titleholder will be determined by an unforgettable tournament that fans will not want to miss, and that our wrestlers will be desperate to win. I’m excited for the announcement of the full bracket live on Dynamite this week. And, it’s only fitting that the champion and the title belt will carry the logo of the globally-respected TNT brand, and that they’ll represent not only AEW but also the great quality programming, massive reach, and storied history in the wrestling business that are all associated with TNT.”
Kylie Rae was announced as having signed a long-term contract with Impact Wrestling on AXS TV last night. The often-smiling wrestling has appeared on Impact shows in the past but after a single’s victory last night Rae announced in a backstage segment that she had signed with the promotion long-term.
“I’m going to tell you how it feels, it feels amazing,” Kylie Rae said backstage. “You know what? It’s been one emotional year. We’ve had highs, we’ve had lows, we’ve had ups, we’ve had downs. But I knew from the moment that I stepped in this Impact wrestling ring, the arena, this is my home. I felt that, I felt that. That’s why I’m very proud to announce Kylie Rae just signed a long-term wrestling contract with Impact Wrestling baby!”
Kylie defeated Cassandra Golden in single’s action last night on Impact Wrestling.
Rae was briefly a member of the AEW roster, having competed at the first AEW Double or Nothing. AEW President Tony Khan stated in a media scrum at All Out that she had requested her release from the company and was departing under “amicable” terms.
27-year-old Kylie Rae is from the Chicago area where she has been a fixture on the independent scene. She is a 3x Diamonds Division Champion for Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling promotion, a former Phoenix of RISE Champion, and AAW Women’s Champion.
AEW Dynamite returns tonight on TNT. AEW has been holding ’empty arena’ editions of Dynamite the past few weeks at Daily’s Place Amphitheater in Jacksonville, FL. This is due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
As the situation grows more dire, additional restrictions have been placed on public gatherings. It is believed AEW held tapings over the past several days from an undisclosed location somewhere in the southeast United States.
AEW Dynamite Preview (4/1)
AEW TNT Championship Tournament Announcement
AEW will soon introduce a new championship title, the AEW TNT Championship. An 8-man tournament has been announced to crown the first champion. As announced on AEW Dark, the ‘left’ side of the brackets will feature the following matches in the quarterfinals:
Cody vs. Shawn Spears
Sammy Guevara vs. Darby Allin
Tonight on Dynamite, AEW will reveal the 4 men who will populate the other two quarterfinal matches.
Cody and Darby Allin vs Sammy Guevara and Shawn Spears
Fourif of the TNT Championship tournament participants will be in tag team action. Fan favorites Cody and Darby Allin will square off against Sammy Guevara and Shawn Spears.
Kenny Omega vs. Trent
Kenny Omega, one half of the AEW World tag team champions, will face Trent of the Best Friends.
The Murderhawk Monster Debuts
Lance Archer, the Murderhawk, will make his AEW in-ring debut. He’s managed by Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Archer has his sights set on an eventual showdown with Cody. You can be sure he’s looking to send a message with his first outing in an AEW ring
AEW Dynamite Post Show
Immediately after Dynamite goes off the air, AEW will sent the Dynamite Post Show live on the company’s YouTube channel. Jim Ross, Excalibur and Taz will host.
Join us here after the show for our weekly AEW Dynamite Results & Takeaways.
Kevin Sullivan will be appearing on Jim Cornette’s podcast, Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru, to give his perspective of Nancy Benoit’s story. He will also be interviewed about how the tragedy and its fallout have affected him.
Cornette announced the news during a recent episode of his show. He stressed how he wanted to give Sullivan a platform to address the situation. He believes that the recent episode of Dark Side of the Ring unintentionally painted Sullivan in a negative light. The show premiered with a two-hour special on the Benoit family tragedy.
“The glaring exception was Kevin Sullivan and because he was not there to tell his story, he came off badly, undeservedly so I thought because a lot of us in wrestling know a lot of the backgrounds and more of the personalities and more of the stories than just these knuckleheads that think they know everything on the internet.”
Kevin Sullivan’s Untold Story
Jim Cornette shared how he brought up this issue with the show’s producer Evan Husney and director Jason Eisener. According to Cornette, Kevin Sullivan’s absence from the show can be attributed to either miscommunication or a lack of communication between the parties. Cornette promised that this would be a topic of conversation between himself and Sullivan.
“He didn’t know what the thing was gonna be like and he didn’t know how big this thing was going to become and he didn’t want to upset Nancy’s parents, but anyway now that Evan and Jason was kind of feeling bad that his story was not in there and as both you and I talked, we thought that he undeservedly came off badly because he wasn’t there to talk and just one line saying ‘Kevin Sullivan declined to be interviewed for this show’ made it sound like he had something to hide or he was trying to protect himself, when in actuality it was lot of case it was the other way around.”
Cornette explained that he’s not doing the episode for a “big ratings deal.”
Instead, he hopes that everyone will listen with an open mind in order to hear Kevin Sullivan’s unheard side of the story.
“[…] that’s the one [story] that has not been told, of all of this, that’s the one that hasn’t been told because of Kevin’s desire basically not to hurt the family anymore than they’ve already hurt by all of this…”
WWE is back with a new episode of NXT for the second straight week. Thus, it’s time to look ahead starting with tonight’s episode of NXT.
The company is building up this show around the Second Chance Gauntlet Match featuring Aliyah, Kayden Carter, Deonna Purrazzo, Shotzi Blackheart, Dakota Kai, and Xia Li.
The winner of this contest will earn the final spot for the six-woman Ladder Match that will determine the new #1 contender for the NXT Women’s Title.
In the likely main event, Keith Lee makes his next title defense against Damian Priest vs. Dominik Dijakovic in a Triple Threat Match.
WWE holds this show in Winter Park, Florida at Full Sail University. WWE is advertising the following items for tonight’s broadcast:
The final spot for the six-woman Ladder Match will be filled with a Second Chance Gauntlet Match featuring Aliyah, Kayden Carter, Deonna Purrazzo, Shotzi Blackheart, Dakota Kai, and Xia Li.
The Velveteen Dream vs. Bobby Fish – Singles Match
NXT North American Champion Keith Lee vs. Damian Priest vs. Dominik Dijakovic – Triple Threat Match
Join us here later tonight for our WWE NXT Results and post-show Takeaways feature.
Aleister Black has revealed his personal motivation heading into his WrestleMania 36 matchup against Bobby Lashley. Following his quick victory this week over Jason Cade on Monday Night RAW, Black was interviewed backstage in a WWE.com Exclusive.
“See, I expected you to give me a question along the lines of ‘Why?’ There seems to be no rhyme or reason for Aleister Black and Bobby Lashley to collide because the world teaches us that sometimes there is no reason or rhyme for conflict,” Black said.
“But if we push beyond the surface of Mr. Lashley, we see a powerful individual. Someone who I’ve witnessed and seen decimate people in mere seconds. As have I. So, in the natural order things, would it not make sense for us to find out who decimates who the quickest?”
Aleister Black Vs Bobby Lashley
Bobby Lashley has not been present on RAW as he has been quarantined following a trip to South Africa. He was in the country to do promotional work for a tour WWE had planned. The tour was set to take place between April 29 to May 2. It has since been rescheduled to September due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Lashley was due to be a part of the March 16 episode of RAW to begin building a storyline with Aleister Black. The quarantine, however, ensured that it wasn’t possible. Despite this setback, the two will seemingly still have their matchup. WrestleMania 36 has already been pre-recorded and will air this weekend on April 4 and April 5.
If you use any quotes from this article, please provide a H/T to SEScoops.
WWE SmackDown Superstar Sonya Deville has confessed how acting is where her passion lies. Deville pointed to WWE Superstars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena as inspirations. She noted how they were both “super successful” in transitioning over to acting, and how she would love to be their female equivalent.
“Acting is definitely where my heart’s at. Recently I’ve been going out to LA and trying to just dive into Hollywood,” Deville explained to Digital Spy. “It’s something that coincides well with WWE with the likes of John Cena and The Rock being super successful in both and I would love to be a female that can do the same. That’s definitely my goal and that’s going to be what I’m focusing on, on top of wrestling, over the next few years.”
Sonya Deville’s Current Storyline
Sonya Deville is currently involved in a storyline involving Mandy Rose and Otis. She recently referred to the soap opera-esque narrative as the most fun storyline she’s ever been a part of.
“People just love Otis and I think it’s just because he’s just so unapologetically himself and he’s always so happy. I think he’s very relatable in a sense and Mandy and I have just had such a good time being part of the storyline for sure. It’s been probably the most fun storyline I’ve ever been a part of in WWE.”
Despite her involvement, Sonya Deville will seemingly not be a part of Otis’ matchup against Dolph Ziggler at WrestleMania 36. Mandy Rose will apparently be ringside. “The Show of Shows” will air on the WWE Network this weekend on April 4 and April 5.
In the run-up to this weekend’s WrestleMania 36, WWE has been frequently referring to Shayna Baszler as a “Cage Fighter.” Baszler, who is a former MMA fighter, recently discussed the differences between competing in MMA and pro wrestling.
“Obviously there is a familiarity with making that walk to the ring, or a cage, or whatever it may be, to face someone in one on one personal combat,” Baszler informed SuperSport. “Someone is there to stop you, you are there to stop them. Being in that situation and also in front of a large live audience, and all the lights and stuff that comes with [being on]TV, that is a very familiar feeling for me.”
Baszler continued, “There was no adjustment time as far as that happened… I’ve been in every situation you can think of in a contest like that… The ‘submission magician’ isn’t just an invented name. Mauro called me that when he was calling one of my MMA fights. Never feeling lost or stressed out is the biggest advantage I have coming from Mixed Martial Arts.”
Shayna Baszler has previously fought in several MMA promotions. Her experiences include Elite XC, Strikeforce, Invicta Fight Championships, and even a short stint in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. She is set to face off against Becky Lynch for the RAW Women’s Championship this weekend at WrestleMania 36.
IMPACT star Moose has discussed the growth of the promotion during a recent interview with Wrestlezone. Reflecting on the company’s live event success prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Moose noted how he’s happy to be a part of it. Despite this growth, however, he noted how IMPACT needs to begin to keep their talent signed to long-term deals, allowing them to develop deeper storylines over time.
“IMPACT has been growing steadily in the past year and a half, two years, and it’s all been great. You mentioned we’re doing house shows,” Moose said, “and you can see yourself we’ve been great on TV, and it’s only going to get better. I’m happy I’m a part of it.”
He continued, “The wrestling business, in general, is great, it’s just a weird place. A guy will be here for a year, then you’ll see him on AEW TV, or a guy will be here for two years and end up going to WWE or Ring Of Honor. It’s just how the wrestling industry is. You can’t expect a guy to be in one company forever, you know? Part of the struggle we have is keeping guys here long-term, but we’re not the only company that has those struggles. Every other company faces that.”
Moose wasn’t concerned over a lack of championship opportunities. He shared how it’s not something he’s losing sleep over, believing that if he wanted a world title shot, he could “easily get one.” Moose confessed that there are a lot of things he’s trying to improve and build on before he wants to step back into title contention.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has revealed he has suffered an unfortunate bicep injury. He shared the news via his Twitter account.
Hogan accompanied the news with a photograph. The image showcases he is now sporting a full beard rather than his iconic handlebar mustache and five o’clock shadow. In his post, he joked how this injury makes him and WWE Superstar Rusev “long lost brothers!”
“Both of my biceps have been torn at the insertions for 25yrs,today I tore my right bicep where it goes in at my front deltoid,well I guess Rusev and I are long lost brothers! BROTHER. HH damn it burns!!!”
Both of my biceps have been torn at the insertions for 25yrs,today I tore my right bicep where it goes in at my front deltoid,well I guess Rusev and I are long lost brothers! BROTHER. HH damn it burns!!! pic.twitter.com/JREZd784Ih
Rusev saw Hulk Hogan’s message and responded, writing, “We are just a couple of Real [American Flag Emoji].” The Superstar recently debuted a new look himself having shaved his head and grown a full beard.
Hulk Hogan’s nWo Hall Of Fame Induction
Hulk Hogan will once again be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. He joins as part of the nWo alongside Kevin Nash, Scott Hall and Sean Waltman. The nWo joins Jushin “Thunder” Liger, Batista, The Bella Twins, JBL and The British Bulldog in the Class of 2020.
The Hall of Fame ceremony was due to take place during WrestleMania week leading into the show this weekend. The coronavirus pandemic, however, has forced WWE to cancel and reschedule several events related to ‘Mania. The Hall of Fame will reportedly now take place during SummerSlam weekend.
Current WWE RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch doesn’t believe she can change the minds of fans who “hate” her. More importantly, trying to do so isn’t something that interests her.
Addressing how she might change to appeal to subsections of the WWE Universe, Lynch told the NotSam Wrestling Podcast, “I think a lot of that is listening and knowing your audience. But also knowing the people are entitled to change their opinion. That they might turn on you and you might not be for them anymore. They might want somebody fresh and might want somebody new. Knowing that, that’s okay.”
Becky Lynch Won’t Waste Her Time On Haters
Becky Lynch explained how altering yourself to appeal isn’t the right reason to adjust. She noted how it has to “feel right” from a narrative and character perspective. She also added how it’s important to entertain and serve the people who enjoy what you do, rather than chasing the validation of those that don’t.
“[…] it has to feel like ‘okay is this where I am going?’ Is this the purpose that I want to follow? And, is this the story that I want to tell? Then you have to think of ‘okay there’s the people who love me and they’re gonna love me whatever I do, and let me serve them. What is, the best way that I can entertain them?’”
She continued, “Instead of the people that are going to hate me, how can I entertain them? ‘Oh can I make them love me?’ That’s just a waste of time, you’re not. That’s like chasing after the boy you just know never liked you, you know?”
Becky Lynch attempts to defend her RAW Women’s Championship this weekend at WrestleMania 36 against Shayna Baszler. “The Show of Shows” will be available to watch on the WWE Network on April 4 and April 5.
WWE Hall of Famer Arn Anderson has spoken about why WWE decided to push John Cena as their top Superstar. He broached the subject during a recent episode of The ARN Podcast while talking about WWE’s Ruthless Aggression era.
“There was a meeting Vince [McMahon] had” Arn began. “I don’t remember what year it was, but it was time to make some changes. We were coming out of the Austin and Rock era, and those guys were going to be moving on doing their own thing. You had to fill a huge gaping hole, as far as personalities and talents. That were, not only bigger than life, they were bigger than the business at the time. They had exceeded everything that had ever been done before, you know Rock and Austin, when they were at their peak.”
Anderson explained how Vince McMahon talked about WWE’s need to move on from past Superstars during a production meeting. He recalled how Vince spotlighted three guys he wanted the team to look at: Batista, John Cena and Randy Orton. According to Anderson, it was stressed that “it needs to be one of these guys, or all of these guys.”
Arn Anderson On Vince McMahon’s Superstar Selection
Arn Anderson shared how he felt that all three were great choices to push. He pointed to Orton was a natural in the ring. He also noted how, when Batista was the face of SmackDown, he was “red hot” during that time.
“But Cena you know, they finally decided he was going to be the guy. Because, he wasn’t going anywhere. He wasn’t, you know. There were no negotiation [type] issues with him, he was going to be there as long as they wanted him to be there. And he ended up being the face of the company. Being a babyface and staying a babyface.”
Anderson continued, “Randy’s character took some trips back and forth. And Dave would go on and do some other things [in Hollywood]. So, You know, they decided on him [Cena]. We went with him and every week it was a conscious decision on what was done with all of his content. Whenever he was doing on the show or backstage or whatever. There was a lot of thought given to that.”
John Cena returns to WWE this weekend for WrestleMania 36. He will wrestle against “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt in a Firefly Fun House matchup.
Returning WWE Hall of Famer Edge has discussed his in-ring plans following this weekend’s WrestleMania event. During an interview with ESPN, Edge shared how he’s not physically capable of committing to a full-time WWE schedule. He noted how he’s put in his time and is ready to help teach the next generation of Superstars.
“Physically, I wouldn’t be able to keep up with that grind that all the young ‘uns are doing right now. I put in my 15 years of that, so now I can come back, and honestly, more than anything, I just want to help teach. And the best way for me to teach is to be in there in the ring with you and show you how to listen.”
Edge On Owning His Story
Edge divulged how, when it comes time for him to retire on his own terms, he wants the WWE Universe to think his current run was even better than his last tenure in the ring.
“When it is time to walk away, I want people to say, ‘Oh, my God, I think he was better this time.’ That’s the challenge. This story has never been written before. No one has ever taken nine years off. No one has ever come back from a triple-fusion. It’s a blank canvas, and the story I want to try and tell, I just want it to be compelling. I want it to be fun for everybody.”
Edge returned earlier this year at January’s Royal Rumble event. It has been reported that he signed a three-year deal that requires him to wrestle three times a year, though he is committed to five matches. He may also make approximately 25 appearances per year, in a deal similar to current WWE Champion, Brock Lesnar.
Edge faces off against Randy Orton in a Last Man Standing matchup this weekend at WrestleMania 36.
