Mercedes Moné has reached a historic milestone in professional wrestling, expanding her championship collection to an unprecedented eight belts after capturing two inaugural titles at Prime Time Wrestling’s “All About The Moné” event in Poland on July 27, 2025.
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) July 27, 2025
The former WWE and current AEW star defeated Diana Strong at Szafirowy Dwór in the small Polish village of Koz?ów to become both the inaugural Prime Time Wrestling Women’s Champion and inaugural BestYa Wrestling Women’s Champion. Moné secured victory by hitting her signature backstabber before transitioning into the Bank Statement submission, forcing Strong to tap out.
With these latest victories, Moné now holds an extraordinary collection of eight championships across multiple promotions worldwide. Her current title portfolio includes the AEW TBS Championship, RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, CMLL World Women’s Championship, EWA Women’s Championship, 2025 Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament Championship, Queen of Southside Championship, and her two newly captured Polish titles.
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) July 27, 2025
This championship expansion represents a remarkable bounce-back for Moné, whose 16-month undefeated streak in singles competition was recently ended by Toni Storm at AEW All In. Rather than slowing down, the “CEO” has continued her international dominance, having previously captured the EWA Women’s Championship in Austria just last month.
Moné’s eight-belt collection establishes her as one of the most accomplished champions in modern professional wrestling, showcasing her ability to succeed across different promotions and wrestling styles on a global scale.
WWE brought its SuperShow Mexico tour to Arena CDMX in Mexico City on July 26, featuring multiple championship defenses and cross-brand talent in an action-packed international event.
The evening’s main events featured three championship defenses, headlined by WWE World Champion GUNTHER successfully retaining his title against former AEW star Penta. The Austrian powerhouse continues his dominant reign as he adapted to the high-energy Mexico City crowd.
WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton overcame former champion Nia Jax in a hard-fought contest, while Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio defended against both El Grande Americano and R-Truth in a unique triple threat format that showcased local Mexican talent alongside established WWE stars.
International Talent Integration
The card prominently featured Mexican wrestling culture, with local luchadores Mr. Iguana, Pagano, and Psycho Clown defeating the Latino World Order trio of Santos Escobar, Angel, and Berto in the opening contest. This cross-cultural approach demonstrated WWE’s commitment to honoring Mexican wrestling traditions.
Rey Fenix, performing in front of his home country audience, teamed with Andrade to defeat the Creed Brothers in a match that highlighted technical wrestling excellence. Women’s Tag Team Champions Roxanne Perez and Raquel Rodriguez also successfully retained their titles against Michin and B Fab.
Bloodline Saga Continues
The ongoing Bloodline storyline reached Mexico as Cody Rhodes, Jimmy Uso, and Jacob Fatu defeated Solo Sikoa, JC Mateo, and Tonga Loa in the co-main event. This faction warfare continues to be a driving force in WWE programming, even on international stages.
Additional action saw Jey Uso and Sami Zayn overcome the powerhouse team of Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker, while Stephanie Vaquer defeated Chelsea Green in women’s singles competition. The SuperShow Mexico tour continues Sunday in Monterrey, bringing WWE’s international expansion efforts to another major Mexican market.
On July 23, 2025, news broke that Hulk Hogan had passed. At 71 years of age and having been the most famous professional wrestler who ever lived, he unsurprisingly drew an outpouring of tributes on social media and in the press. It was also noteworthy, however, how many critics spoke up too, not bowing to the impulse to lionize and whitewash the history of the recently deceased, but rather pointing out that the man may have worn out his welcome on the mortal plane.
Such is the legacy of Hulk Hogan, chock full of complicated, contradictory feelings around a major celebrity who helped shape a business and was such an inspiration for generations, while also suffering a profound fall from grace on record over the course of the last decade of his life.
Hulk Hogan Was The Most Important Star In Pro Wrestling History
Photo: WWE
From the late 1970s to early 1980s, Hulk Hogan was a pro wrestling star, making waves in WWE, the AWA, and for New Japan. Despite representing a different style than promoters tended to push on top at the time, it nonetheless wouldn’t have been shocking, even then, to learn that he’d one day be a world champion.
When Hogan did win his first world title in January 1984 it marked a shift for not just his career but the wrestling business. Vince McMahon had the vision to take WWE national; Hogan was the primary vehicle to make that happen. A larger than life superhero, Hogan became the business’s defining champion and babyface in a run that launched WrestleMania and took WWE into the stratosphere.
It’s all the more remarkable that Hogan’s time on top had a second act. In 1994, he became the face of WCW. More importantly, 1996 saw Hogan’s heel turn elevate WCW in very similar ways to how the original Hulkamania run elevated WWE. The New World Order became an enormous draw that allowed WCW to beat WWE in TV ratings for a year and a half and remain competitive for some time to follow.
Though nothing should have surprised fans by that point, Hogan even had one more trick up his sleeve. When he returned to WWE in 2002, he briefly burned bright one last time as a nostalgia act, capturing the imagination in a run that led to his dream match opposite The Rock at WrestleMania 18 and one last world title run to follow.
It may well have been this run that fueled WWE leaning into nostalgia with returning legends and such emphasis on its Hall of Fame for decades to come. That’s not to mention Hogan’s own periodic returns to the company and his run with TNA.
Hulk Hogan Crossed Over To The Mainstream
Ask the average person who has never followed pro wrestling to name five wrestlers. If the person at hand can complete the task, the odds are Hulk Hogan’s name made the list.
Hogan entered pop culture as the face of WWE at its hottest. He appeared on MTV and late night talk shows, main evented seven out of the first eight WrestleManias, and became the subject of an unprecedented volume of toys and merchandise. All of that’s before the nWo became a pop culture phenomenon in its own right.
So it is that, for all his baggage, The Hulkster remains one of a very small handful of wrestlers who could die and make the entire world take notice.
Hulk Hogan’s Backstage Reputation Took A Hit
The era of tell-all books, documentaries, and podcasts was not kind to Hulk Hogan’s public image. He’d been WWE’s top babyface and WCW’s top heel, and though plenty of “smart” fans may have cooled on him, it was difficult to deny his sheer importance to the wrestling business.
However, one-by-one, accounts fleshed out an unflattering portrait of Hogan. Bret Hart’s book may have offered the most compelling, well-rounded accounting.
The Hitman recalled himself and his contemporaries loving Hogan for what a draw he was—the rising tide that lifted all their ships to financial prosperity. However, Hart also recalled a double-talking, politicking Hogan who contributed to a booking mess at the top of the card in WWE in 1993. From there came the version of Hogan who ran roughshod over WCW, holding down talents, abusing creative control, and strategically choosing when to and not to appear on television to take credit for ratings spikes.
While Hogan has spun his own version of events—looking out for his and his family’s financial well being in a tumultuous business where his body wouldn’t allow him to compete forever—a murkier picture of how and why Hulkamania ran wild so long took shape.
Hulk Hogan Fell From Grace
Image credit: Ariel Helwani Show
The narrative of Hulk Hogan as egotistical, self-serving, and a backstage politician was just the tip of the iceberg. A sex tape would follow and then, most damning, recordings of him issuing a racist rant in 2015.
Hogan’s words themselves were bad enough. He compounded them with his failure to take accountability. Rather than issue a meaningful apology, he equivocated around the way people talked when he was growing up and later lecturing the WWE roster about being careful not to get caught saying regrettable things on tape in place of actually apologizing.
Add on Hogan continually getting caught telling a range of lies like that he was almost a part of Metallica, that Andre the Giant weighed 600-plus pounds when Hogan body slammed him, or that he was offered the grill endorsement deal that George Foreman capitalized on. Add on the polarizing choice for Hogan to appear at the 2024 Republican National Convention and offer a full-throated endorsement of Donald Trump.
In the end, The Hulkster had alienated a significant portion of his fan base. He went from a largely cherished icon of the 1980s to alternately a punchline or an outright villain depending on one’s perspective.
The Legacy Of Hulk Hogan
Image credit: WWE
Hulk Hogan has one of the most complicated legacies in wrestling. For devout fans of certain eras of the business, it remains difficult to fully disavow him (and that’s doubly true for those who also aligned with his political views). Nonetheless, the racist sentiments in particular position him among those figures one had to—to put it kindly—parse the art from artist for.
Unlike Chris Benoit whose final acts and means of death were what condemned his reputation as a wrestler Hulk Hogan’s story had played out before he passed—greatest triumphs, warts, and all. It will be interesting to see if his importance to wrestling history or his public blunders “win” in the end as the lasting memories associated with him. It seems certain, though, for better or worse, Hogan will never be forgotten.
TNA Wrestling held a set of television tapings on Friday, July 25, in Kingston, Rhode Island, featuring significant developments, including the return of a former champion and a serious injury announcement. The spoilers below will air in August.
The following matches were taped for an upcoming episode of TNA Xplosion:
Jody Threat defeated Arianna Grace
Home Town Man defeated The Mecca Brian Johnson
The following matches and segments were taped for the August 7 episode of TNA iMPACT:
The show opened with Mustafa Ali and Order 4. Ali spoke about outsiders holding TNA championships and was interrupted by Joe Hendry. After a verbal exchange and a video mocking Order 4’s John Skylar, Ali accepted a challenge from Hendry for a match later in the night.
TNA World Champion Trick Williams came to the ring to discuss his upcoming match against Moose at Emergence. Moose interrupted, leading to a brief physical confrontation before Williams retreated.
International Championship Match: Steve Maclin (champion) vs. Jake Something ended in a double countout. The two continued to brawl after the match, with Maclin diving onto a group of security guards who were holding Something back.
Mike Santana cut a promo from the crowd, reflecting on his loss at Slammiversary and promising his daughter that he will eventually defeat Trick Williams for the TNA World Championship.
Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Lee defeated M & Heather By Elegance.
First Class (AJ Francis & Rich Swann) hosted an episode of the First Class Penthouse. It was announced that their stablemate, KC Navarro, suffered a torn ACL and will require surgery. AJ Francis then introduced the returning Rich Swann as the newest member of the group, before kicking Navarro out of the faction. Swann then attacked Navarro with his crutch.
Mara Sade defeated Vicious Vicki in a quick match.
TNA Knockouts World Championship Match: Ash By Elegance defeated Jacy Jayne (champion) by disqualification after Masha Slamovich interfered. The match was followed by a large brawl involving The Elegance Brand, Fatal Influence, and The IInspiration.
Santino Marella announced several matches for the TNA Emergence event: Steve Maclin vs. Jake Something in a No Disqualification, No Countout match; Mike Santana vs. Sami Callihan; and a four-way match for the Knockouts World Tag Team Championships between The Elegance Brand, Xia Brookside & Lei Ying Lee, Fatal Influence, and The IInspiration. He also suspended The Nemeths for their recent actions, but after being threatened with a lawsuit, he booked Ryan Nemeth vs. Home Town Man for Emergence.
Mustafa Ali defeated Joe Hendry in the main event after interference from his entire Order 4 entourage.
The following matches and segments were taped for the August 14 episode of TNA iMPACT:
The show opened with Moose laid out backstage. This led to a six-man tag team match where Trick Williams & First Class (AJ Francis & Rich Swann) defeated The System (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers & JDC).
Dani Luna and Indi Hartwell defeated Harley Hudson and Myla Grace. After the match, Rosemary appeared from the crowd and sprayed mist in Indi Hartwell’s face.
Matt Cardona defeated John Skylar. After the match, Cardona was attacked by Mustafa Ali and Order 4.
A “Knockouts Tag Team Summit” was held featuring the four teams competing at Emergence. The segment ended in a brawl.
Mike Santana defeated Eric Young. After the match, Young’s partners in The Northern Armory attacked Santana before Sami Callihan made the save.
Frankie Kazarian hosted a “King’s Speech” talk show segment with his guests, Steve Maclin and Jake Something. The two brawled, ending with Something laying out Maclin with a Black Hole Slam.
The Rascalz & Cedric Alexander defeated Leon Slater & The Hardys.
The tapings concluded with a non-televised concert featuring Joe Hendry and Jeff Hardy.
Nick Hogan has spoken publicly for the first time since the passing of his father Hulk Hogan, who died at 71 of a reported cardiac arrest. In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on July 27, 2025, Nick thanked those who reached out in the days following his father’s death.
Though Nick never became a wrestler like his father, he has a connection to the business Hulk played a pivotal role in. In 2005, it was reported that Nick had been training at Rikishi’s school, and Nick would tease interest in wrestling during his role on Hogan Knows Best. In 2023, Hulk claimed that there had been talks within WWE of Nick facing Shane McMahon at WrestleMania 39, though WWE sources refuted the claim.
Hulk Hogan’s role in wrestling can never be understated, and tributes continue to pur in, our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and fans at this sad time.
Alberto El Patron lost a match to El Mesias in AAA on July 25, and as per the stipulation of the match, must leave AAA for good. This departure has led some to speculate on a return to WWE, but fans shouldn’t expect ‘Alberto Del Rio’ anytime soon.,
Per Fightful Select, Alberto’s status with WWE “has not changed,” even after his storyline exit from AAA. WWE has no plans to bring Alberto back, despite him allegedly telling members of the AAA locker room that WWE has reached out to him. According to El Patron, WWE is interested in a potential Royal Rumble return, though one higher-up reportedly stated:
“If we wanted Alberto at all, much less in the Royal Rumble, he’d be here… [There is] never any difference or change to his status.”
The report also notes that WWE deliberately distanced itself from the former World Champion, especially after announcing its acquisition of AAA. El Patron was not present during the announcement that took place during WrestleMania weekend. WWE wasted no time in taking the AAA Mega Title off El Patron in a match with El Hijo del Vikingo. Though WWE sources told Fightful that this move may have drawn some backlash in Mexico it was considered a “long-term benefit.”
Así es como Alberto El Patrón cerró su etapa en AAA, la cual cumplió con creces, convirtiéndose no sólo en el rudo más rudo, también en un ídolo que se marchó ovacionado por el público.
Earlier this year, it was reported that WWE had signed El Patron, leaving some to theorize that a return was happening. It was later clarified that WWE had simply acquired Alberto’s pre-existing AAA contract. An incident with a fan at an AAA event in May would result in Alberto being suspended from competition in Tijiuana, hardly a good look for someone trying to get a third chance in WWE.
This report adds that El Patron is “legitimately done in AAA” and that “no plans” exist for a future in WWE. El Patron was fired from WWE in 2014 after a backstage altercation, and after being rehired the next year, was cut in 2016. While he may continue to talk of a WWE future as a certainty, it appears that this simply isn’t in the cards.
‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio made an explosive arrival in AAA, attacking El Hijo del Vikingo and Dragon Lee at a recent event. Now, fans have been given a new perspective of the arrival of the reignign WWE Intercontinental Champion.
The video, posted directly by WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, shows the climax of a segment where a masked individual ambushed Lee and Vikingo. When the masked figure revealed himself to be Dominik, the crowd erupted, a moment that Levesque’s video captured perfectly.
In the caption accompanying the video, Triple H praised Mysterio, stating he proves he’s “a STAR” no matter where he performs. The endorsement certainly carries weight coming from one of WWE’s biggest stars, and more importantly, one of the promotion’s top executives making decisions to this day.
Wall-to-wall action from every match, a sing-along with El Grande Americano, and proof that no matter where he is … @DomMysterio35 is a STAR.#TripleMania streams on YouTube August 16 from Mexico City…are you ready?… pic.twitter.com/4vHvCfHJoK
Mysterio’s shocking appearance led to a major announcement: he will now compete in the AAA Mega Championship match at TripleManía on August 16, joining Dragon Lee, El Grande Americano and champion El Hijo del Vikingo. The show will stream live on YouTube from Mexico City, where Mysterio plans on leaving a dpouble champion.
Before TripleMania though, Dominik will defend his WWE Intercontinental Title against AJ Styles at SummerSlam, taking place August 2–3. No matter where he goes, expect loud reactions for ‘Dirty Dom.’
Former WWE developmental and TNA star Trenesha Biggers, known by fans as Rhaka Khan, was arrested in New York City on July 26 for criminal trespass. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that Biggers was escorted out of her former Midtown apartment around 11:30?AM, having remained on the premises despite being served an eviction order. Neighbors had reportedly grown frustrated by ongoing issues at the residence.
Biggers was taken into custody at the 17th Precinct and remained there as of Saturday afternoon. This incident adds to a long history of legal battles for Biggers. In October 2023, a federal judge dismissed her second amended lawsuit, which sought $3 billion in damages. The suit had named nearly 500 defendants—ranging from The Rock, Nikki Bella, and The Miz to multiple government agencies—alleging conspiracy and wrongful seizure of her children. U.S. District Court Judge Laura Taylor Swain rejected the filing for failure to state valid claims and improper venue.
Previously, Biggers had faced serious charges in Texas, including interference with child custody and aggravated kidnapping facilitate, which led to her being placed on El Paso’s Most Wanted list in 2019 after failing to appear in court. She was later arrested and arraigned, with bench warrants issued and revoked multiple times.
In wrestling, Khan competed in the 2005 WWE Diva Search which was won by Ashley Massaro. Though she didn’t win, she was signed to a developmental contract, though she was released on May 4, 2006. In 2008, Khan debuted for TNA at Against All Odds, and would join the ‘Kongtourage’ that same year. She was released from TNA on October 1, 2009.
Trenesha Biggers’s arrest for criminal trespass represents the latest chapter in a complex post-wrestling life. Stay tuned to SEScoops for updates on her case.
Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71, marking the end of the life of arguably the biggest star in all of professional wrestling. While several promotions paid tribute after his death, AEW did not, earning the ire of fans.
@TonyKhan BAD PERSON! WONT ACKNOWLEDGE HULH HOGAN BECAUSE TONY HAS TO MUCH OF A EGO
You have to be a real asshole if you don't pay any respect to Hulk Hogan. That's why you're the worst promoter in pro wrestling. Punk was right about you.
On the July 26, episode of AEW Collisision, veteran broadcaster Tony Schiavone addressed the loss in an emotional on-air tribute. The tribute came after the opening match during Schiavone’s weekly address to the audience.
“It was quite a week for all of us who have been in professional wrestling for a long time with the unexpected death of Hulk Hogan. Hulk Hogan was the man who brought professional wrestling into the mainstream in the ’80s and in the ’90s, right here on this network, right here on TNT almost 30 years ago. Hulk Hogan lit the fire that began the Monday Night Wars, and he also put WCW on the cable TV map right here on TNT.”
Schiavone then shifted to addressing Hogan’s family, including his wife Sky, and his children Nick and Brooke.
“And, you know, sometimes we take a look at these stars that are bigger than life and we forget that they are just like us—human. And we forget they have families that care about them. Our condolences go out to Hulk’s family, his children Brooke and Nick, his wife Sky. And if you’ve never lost a member of your family, you have no idea what the pain they are going through right now. And believe you me, it is intense. From all of us here at All Elite Wrestling—RIP, brother.”
Schiavone’s tribute comes despite AEW having a heated stance on Hogan. In 2020, Tony Khan shared that Hogan was banned from AEW events due to his several controversies. After Hulk’s ex-wife Linda made some racially charged comments that same year, she too earned a lifetime ban from AEW events.
Khan has not publicaly acknowledged Hogan’s passing in interviews or on social media, and it remains to be seen if he ever will. As for AEW, Schiavone’s tribute shows how the Hulkster had an impact on the wrestling world, even in promotions he never performed for.
WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley has come to the defense of Hulk Hogan, calling out wrestling industry figures and fans as “hypocrites” for criticizing the wrestling legend over past controversial comments.
Speaking on his podcast with The Duke, D-Von acknowledged the hurt caused by Hogan’s previous remarks while emphasizing the wrestling icon’s immense contributions to the business.
“We all are guilty in one way, shape, or form of saying something or doing something that wouldn’t be considered appropriate. If it wasn’t for Hulk Hogan, there would be no WWE, there would be no AEW, there would be no TNA. We wouldn’t even be having this platform right now.”
D-Von revealed that Hogan personally apologized to him, sharing details of their private conversation where the wrestling legend expressed his love and respect.
“He apologized to me. He pulled me aside and said, ‘Devon, I’m not that type of person. I’m not.’ He said, ‘They’re killing me on social media. They’re making me feel like I am. Brother, I love you.'”
The tag team legend didn’t hold back in criticizing those who condemned Hogan, suggesting many critics have their own skeletons in the closet.
“I also know these same people have done things that, if brought to light, fans wouldn’t be happy with. You’re being hypocrites about it. Don’t say good things about him now that he’s gone.”
D-Von emphasized the biblical principle of forgiveness while acknowledging his own hurt as an African-American over Hogan’s past comments, ultimately calling for understanding and redemption in the wrestling community.
Current Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena will bring his legal expertise to the big screen when “Coyote vs. Acme” hits theaters worldwide on August 28, 2026. The announcement came during a triumphant Comic-Con panel for the rescued Looney Tunes film, where fans celebrated the movie’s journey from Warner Bros. cancellation to theatrical release.
Cena stars as Buddy Crane, the intimidating corporate defense attorney representing Acme Corporation against Wile E. Coyote’s product liability lawsuit. The live-action/animated hybrid follows the classic cartoon character as he finally fights back against the company whose faulty products have tormented him for decades, with Will Forte playing Coyote’s scrappy personal injury lawyer.
“What I will prove to this jury is that this man, Wile E Coyote, he is reckless,” Cena declares in exclusive Comic-Con footage, showcasing his commanding courtroom presence as the film’s primary antagonist.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect for Cena’s corporate villain role. Fresh off his shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2025, where he aligned with The Rock and berated WWE fans, the “Never Seen 17” brings that same ruthless energy to defending Acme’s questionable business practices. His character serves as the former boss to Forte’s underdog attorney, adding personal stakes to the legal battle.
Director Dave Green spent six years developing the project based on Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker humor piece, with James Gunn producing alongside his collaborations with Cena on “The Suicide Squad” and “Peacemaker.” The $70 million film was completed in 2022 but became a casualty of Warner Bros. Discovery’s cost-cutting measures, leading to its controversial shelving in November 2023.
Ketchup Entertainment rescued the film in a $50 million deal, with Will Forte praising fans at Comic-Con: “The real hero of this movie is all of you guys sitting in those seats. Like Wile E. Coyote, you guys were an underdog who fought against a major corporation, and because you never gave up, this movie is now going to come out in wide global release.”
For wrestling fans, “Coyote vs. Acme” represents another evolution in Cena’s entertainment empire. With Peacemaker Season 2 premiering on HBO Max just one week before the film’s release, and his announced 2025 WWE farewell tour underway, Cena continues balancing his championship reign with his expanding Hollywood presence. The animated courtroom comedy proves that whether he’s defending titles in the ring or corporations in court, John Cena remains an unstoppable force in entertainment.
AJ Lee and CM Punk, married for over 12 years, have differing views on working together. While Punk believes their relationship thrives on keeping work and home separate, AJ hinted at being open to collaborating with Punk if the right opportunity arises.
“There are really two things me and my wife don’t do together. One is to work out and the other is to work together. It’s really the perfect relationship.”
– CM Punk
During her appearance at San Diego Comic-Con, AJ joked about the longevity of their marriage being due to them not working together, but she also expressed openness to future collaboration, praising Punk’s writing and artistic abilities.
“Oh my gosh, I think the key to being married for 12 years is that we don’t work together. [Laughs] But yeah, it’d be really cool. ‘Never say never’ is what I say to all the things when people ask me where I’m going to work. But yeah, he’s a really good writer and a really good artist — acting and wrestling.”
San Diego Comic-Con
Although there is currently no confirmed project, AJ’s comments have left fans hopeful for a potential collaboration. You can see footage of her comments from SDCC 2025 courtesy of BrockLesnarGuy:
AJ speaks about if she’d work with Punk in any capacity and gives shoutout to Larry getting an action figure yesterday. pic.twitter.com/mij7CXSkCM
Bayley’s frustration boiled over during a dark match following the July 25 SmackDown episode, as the former Women’s Champion expressed her disappointment over missing SummerSlam 2025. The Role Model lost a crucial 2-out-of-3 falls match to Lyra Valkyria on the July 14 WWE RAW, costing her a shot at Becky Lynch’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship at “the Biggest Party of the Summer.”
Before her dark match against Valkyria began, Bayley grabbed the microphone to air her grievances with Cleveland’s audience. Despite being positioned as a babyface, her recent actions continue to hint at a potential heel turn.
“I have a bone to pick with the first ever women’s IC champion, Lyra Valkyria, okay? I tried to do something out of the good of my heart put us in a tag team title match. Why? To get us to SummerSlam because I am out of a match at SummerSlam, thanks to you!” – Bayley
The July 14 RAW match saw Bayley secure the first fall against Valkyria, but ultimately lose after being pinned twice consecutively. The winner was set to challenge Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam, leaving Bayley without a spot on the premium live event card.
Bayley’s frustration continued into the dark match, where she again fell to Valkyria via pinfall. This marks a significant contrast to SummerSlam 2024, where Bayley defended the WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax, ultimately losing the title after interference from Tiffany Stratton.
With SummerSlam 2025 approaching, Bayley’s exclusion from the card and her increasingly aggressive demeanor suggest potential storyline developments that could reshape her character moving forward.
CM Punk has told the story of how he got unbanned on WWE’s extra talent list.
The Straight Edge star was part of the WWE’s SDCC 2025 panel, where they unveiled many new action figures. One of the figures featured Punk in a look from his 2003 SmackDown Dark match against The Road Warriors.
When asked about it, the former WWE champion told a story about the bout. He mentioned that he had been ‘banned’ from the list of extras only days before but he showed up to the show anyway:
“That particular guy is a person who wrestled the night before on a Monday Night Raw, was put on the ban list. Then I went to SmackDown anyway cuz I was like ‘Well all right, might as well get my money.’ The Road Warriors were supposed to do a dark match.”
CM Punk recalled WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter offering him a match at the show. While the former AEW star accepted the offer, the match did not go as he would have hoped as his partner knocked out one of their opponents:
“No offense to anybody else that was in attendance but all the rest of the extra talent were so rotten that Sgt. Slaughter came up to me and just said ‘You got your gear right kid? And I was like ‘Yes sir.’
[He said] ‘How would you like to work the Road Warriors?’ And I just said ‘Yes sir.’ I didn’t add ‘So I’m not banned anymore?’ It’s the fastest turnaround on a ban. I got to work the Road Warriors.
I think they just released that in the vault. So you got to see that match. My tag partner knocked Hawk unconscious. So that action figure might come with like a heart attack because that’s what I had on the apron watching this all unfold.”
WWE recently released the footage of this dark match including an introduction from CM Punk where he goes into more details of why he was banned and more. You can check it out below:
WWE SummerSlam 2025 will be a stacked event, with the Biggest Party of the Summer playing out over two-nights for the first time ever. Despite the show being bigger, not everyone has made it on the card, resulting in one fomer champion to share her grievances.
After the July 25, edition of WWE SmackDown, Bayley competed in a dark match against Lyra Valkyria. The Role Model made clear that she’s furious that she won’t be part of SummerSlam, and blamed her absence on Valkyria.
Bayley didn’t have the best of look at last year’s SummerSlam, where her WWE Women’s Title reign was ended by Nia Jax. Still, that show at least saw Bayley on the card, which is more than can be said in 2025.
It remains to be seen when Bayley will next have a role on a Premium Live Event, but it won’t be at SummerSlam.
WWE superstar Chelsea Green announced she is stepping away from social media following intense backlash and harassment over her comments about Hulk Hogan’s death during a CBS News interview.
The Breaking Point
Green posted an emotional message to her followers on Friday, revealing the toll the controversy has taken:
“Social media was supposed to be a fun place and it hasn’t been for a while. It’s been overwhelming and I need to step away for a little bit.”
She described facing name-calling, death threats, and attacks from anonymous accounts.
The Original Controversy
The backlash began after Green appeared on CBS News 24/7 on Thursday to discuss Hogan’s passing. During the live interview, she stated “polarizing political views aside, he was an absolute icon.” She also posted a since-deleted tweet praising Hogan’s influence on wrestling while acknowledging his controversial nature.
Wrestling fans criticized Green for not directly addressing Hogan’s problematic history, particularly the racist remarks that led to his temporary WWE removal in 2015. Many felt her comments dismissed valid concerns about his legacy, especially given Green’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
Green’s Response and Apology
On Friday, Green issued a public apology clarifying her position: “Let me be clear: my stance on racism is unwavering. I do not condone it—period.” She explained that media engagement is part of her WWE role and emphasized she was attempting to handle a “complicated legacy” respectfully.
“If my response seemed dismissive of real concerns, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention,” Green added, acknowledging she is still learning how to navigate such sensitive topics in public forums.
I’ve tried to keep my page positive and comedic, but today, a lot changed… and it hit harder than I expected. The name calling, the death threats, the faceless accounts. Social media was supposed to be a fun place and it hasn’t been for a while. It’s been overwhelming and I…
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within the wrestling community about how to honor legendary figures while acknowledging their problematic histories. Green’s decision to step away from social media also underscores the mental health impact of online harassment on public figures.
Before signing off, Green thanked her supporters, writing “Love my PatriHOTS!” using her affectionate nickname for her fanbase.
Dominik Mysterio made himself known in a major way at AAA’s July 25 event in Mexico City. In his unannounced appearance Mysterio stunned fans by attacking Dragon Lee and Hijo del Vikingo immediately after their match.
Grabbing a microphone after the ambush, Dominik made it clear he wasn’t in Mexico just to cause trouble—he came for championship gold. His challenge led to a major announcement: Mysterio is now officially part of the AAA Mega Championship match at TripleManía.
The high-stakes bout will see Hijo del Vikingo defend his title against Dragon Lee, El Grande Americano, and now, Dominik Mysterio. The showdown will come on August 16, where the reigning WWE Intercontinental Champion plans on leaving as a double champion.
Before then, Dominik will be at SummerSlam, where he’s set to defend the Intercontinental Title against AJ Styles. The Judgment Day star is certainly making an impression in wrestling, both in and out of WWE.
The July 25, episode of WWE SmackDown saw the return of a star who’s been out injured for over a year, though they won’t be competing just yet. On the show, Kiana James made her long-awaited return, but as the advocate of Women’s U.S. Champion Giulia.
Backstage, Zelina Vega was addressing another shot at the WWE Women’s United States Championship, but Giulia didn’t have to speak. Instead, James spoke on behalf of the Beautiful Madness, and berated Vega. In the end, this culminated with a title match being made for the go-home SmackDown before WWE SummerSlam.
While the pairing may seem odd, it makes sense that Giulia is partnered with a native English language speaker on TV. While Giulia has made strides in learning the language, WWE clearly feels that having a native speaker is the right call at this time.
James will have the chance to test herself as Giulia’s advocate next week when the Women’s U.S Title is on the line. It remains to be seen if this paring proves to be a successful endeavor.
The go-home SmackDown before WWE SummerSlam will see a major titlte match as non-WWE gold will be on the line. In a new announcement shared across WWE’s social media platforms, it was confirmed that Los Garza—Angel and Berto—will put their AAA World Tag Team Titles on the line in an open challenge on next Friday’s show.
EXCLUSIVE: AAA World Tag Team Champions Los Garza throw down an open challenge for any team to challenge them next week on SmackDown for their titles. pic.twitter.com/5ln9N8oKma
This match will mark the first time AAA gold will be defended on an WWE TV show, and the first time in a long time that non-WWE gold has been defended on the main roster. The move marks WWE’s continuing efforts with AAA following the company’s announcement of its acquisition back in April 2025.
The go-home SmackDown before SummerSlam will also see Damian Priest will go one-on-one with Aleister Black. In title action, Giulia will defend the WWE Women’s United States Championship against former titleholder Zelina Vega.
The August 1 SmackDown will air live from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, and is shaping up to be a stacked final stop before WWE’s biggest event of the summer.
WWE has reportedly canceled its planned late-night comedy event for SummerSlam weekend which was to feature comedian Tony Hinchcliffe. The show was originally set for Saturday, August 2, at 11 PM ET, at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey.
According to PWInsider.com, WWE made the decision to pull the event. A venue source confirmed that ticket sales had been weak, with interest described as light in the days leading up to the cancellation. The show was meant to be a comedy night showcasing WWE Superstars, entertainers, and surprise guests.
Hinchcliffe served as the host for ‘The Roast of WrestleMania’ in April, an event that received mixed reviews by fans. While some saw it as a fun way to end the WrestleMania festivities, others argued that some comments went too far, and that Hinchcliffe himself was a poor choice as host.
Inside WWE, the reaction to Hinchcliffe’s return was reportedly muted. Some staff expressed relief that the company was not repeating the roast format. Now though, the entire planned return of Hinchcliffe is reportedly finished.
Faced with slow ticket sales and limited internal excitement, WWE chose to cancel the event rather than proceed without strong momentum. WWE SummerSlam will take place on August 2, and August 3, from Rutherford, New Jersey.
Cody Rhodes didn’t shy away from the proverbial elephant in the room in his tribute to Hulk Hogan during the July 25, SmackDown. WWE honored Hulk Hogan following his death at age 71 with a ten-bell salute, tribute video, and speech by Triple H to open the show.
In his own promo, Rhodes discussed Hogan’s death and admitted that there were “complicated details” to Hogan’s legacy. Though Hogan didn’t address ‘complications’ including Hogan’s racist remarks of several lies, what he said remained clear.
“Yesterday, WWE and pro wrestling lost one of its giant names, like Hulk Hogan. I know there are complicated details here, but what is not complicated are his contributions to WWE. That is undeniable. Thank you, Hulk Hogan.”
WWE has avoided bringing up Hogan’s racist remarks since his passing, with a statement by Chelsea Green being the closest an active talent has gotten to facing the topic head on. Rhodes’ tribute marked one of the night’s most nuanced moments—balancing respect for Hogan’s profound influence with an honest nod to the complexity surrounding his history.
The July 25 episode of WWE SmackDown was the promotion’s first TV event following the death of Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24 at the age of 71. The show opened with the entire SmackDown roster, along with several WWE legends, gathered on the entrance ramp in Cleveland.
Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque stood at the forefront with a microphone in hand and addressed the WWE Universe. Levesque said how without Hulk Hogan, “none of us would be standing on this ramp.” He paid tribute to Hogan’s role in propelling WWE into the mainstream, noting how Hulkamania helped elevate the company to global prominence.
A ‘Hogan’ chant broke out among fans as WWE aired an emotional video package celebrating the two-time Hall of Famer. The video ended with WWE honoring Hogan with a 10-bell salute, a staple of wrestling events to pay tribute to a deceased wrestler.
Triple H’s tribute and the extended video package were fitting honors for a man who helped define professional wrestling for generations. Hogan’s legacy continues to live on through the performers he inspired and the fans who chanted his name one last time.
Tables, ladders, and chairs will return to SummerSlam 2025 as SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis announced a massive six-team TLC match for the WWE Tag Team Championships. The hardcore stipulation will see defending champions WYATT SICKS battle five other teams in one of the most unpredictable matches on the card.
The defending champions Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis will face their toughest challenge yet when they take on DIY, FRAXIOM, Andrade and Rey Fenix, the Street Profits, and Motor City Machine Guns in the hardcore stipulation match. This marks the first major title defense for the WYATT SICKS since capturing the gold from the Street Profits on July 11th.
The announcement comes as SummerSlam 2025 prepares to make history as the first-ever two-night edition of The Biggest Party of the Summer, taking place August 2-3 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The TLC format adds an extra layer of unpredictability to what is already a stacked championship match. Each team brings compelling storylines into the match. DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) are former champions looking to reclaim their spot atop the division. FRAXIOM (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) have been frequent targets of the WYATT SICKS attacks since their main roster call-up. The newly-formed partnership of Andrade and Rey Fenix represents fresh blood in the title picture. Meanwhile, the Street Profits will be seeking revenge after losing their championship to the sinister faction through controversial means involving interference from Erick Rowan. Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) bring decades of tag team experience and championship pedigree to the chaotic match environment.
The TLC stipulation ensures that tables, ladders, and chairs will all be legal weapons, with the championship belts suspended high above the ring. The first team to retrieve the titles will be crowned the new WWE Tag Team Champions, making this one of the most unpredictable matches on the SummerSlam card.
The match was part of an ongoing feud, and Bliss is still scheduled to compete at SummerSlam.
WWE has not released an official update on her condition.
Charlotte Flair consoles Alexa Bliss following her loss tonight, saying they need to be on track and ready for SummerSlam.#SmackDownpic.twitter.com/bkkfvAvrrs
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) July 26, 2025
Female wrestlers are increasingly viewing WWE television exposure as a strategic launching pad for lucrative OnlyFans careers, according to a Wrestling Observer Newsletter industry source. The business model has proven so successful that multiple wrestlers are actively planning their exits from traditional wrestling to capitalize on adult content platforms.
“Learn to wrestle, make it to WWE TV, build a fan base & start OF. There are women already planning their exits and others know it’s an option,” the Wrestling Observer Newsletter source noted.
The strategy appears to be proving successful, with multiple wrestlers making the transition in 2025 alone. Mandy Rose continues leading the trend, maintaining significant revenue streams while expanding her content offerings on the platform.
Recent WWE releases have followed this blueprint with notable success. Elayna Black launched her OnlyFans account in June 2025 at $15.99 per month following her WWE departure, confirming the venture “has paid off.” According to Wrestling Observer, Black has been telling people in wrestling what she’s earning, and it was reportedly more money than any woman wrestler made in the last month. Tegan Nox similarly launched her account in June after her November 2024 release, while Blair Davenport started her platform in May following her February WWE exit.
The trend extends beyond WWE departures, with AEW’s Toni Storm successfully balancing an active wrestling career alongside her OnlyFans presence since 2022, demonstrating the viability of dual career paths.
This strategic approach represents a significant shift in how wrestlers view their careers, transforming WWE television exposure from an end goal into a stepping stone for alternative revenue streams and financial independence.
