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Backstage Upate on Corey Graves’ Status with WWE

Thomas Lowson
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Corey Graves has found himself in the spotlight following a post on X earlier this week, where he expressed frustration about being moved to the NXT commentary team. In a follow-up post, Graves stated he would have more to say during this week’s NXT, but he did not appear as promised. His brother, Sam Adonis, later clarified in his own post that the situation is not part of a storyline.

According to Wrestling Observer Radio, Graves learned weeks ago that Wade Barrett would be replacing him on SmackDown. Sources backstage have reported that Graves was unhappy when informed of this decision.

Some within WWE speculate that Graves’ recent post, which has since been deleted, may be an attempt to get himself fired. However, insiders suggest that if this is Graves’ goal, WWE is unlikely to comply with this tactic.

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

What Did Corey Graves Say?

In his post, Graves recalled being told that he could no longer wrestle, and dedicating his life to his “dream adjacent” and becoming a “pretty f***ing awesome” commentator. Graves shared that he was told “you’re not famous enough for your job,” that some have seen as a nod to Joe Tessitore and Pat McAfee. Both Tessitore and McAfee had established high-profile careers outside WWE before joining, unlike Graves, who has been a dedicated part of WWE but now feels relegated to NXT.

With Graves being replaced as the commentator of this week’s WWE Speed, questions remain about the future of the man once considered the heir apparent to Michael Cole. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Corey Graves as his role with WWE remains unclear.

Oba Femi Clears Up Accent Controversy After NXT Promo

Michael Reichlin
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Oba Femi Clears Up Accent Controversy After NXT Promo

Oba Femi, the newly crowned NXT Champion, addressed accusations of faking his accent during his promo on the January 14th edition of NXT. Speaking on the No-Contest Wrestling podcast, Femi clarified that his accent stems from his upbringing in Nigeria, where he lived for 19 years. While acknowledging that his accent may appear exaggerated on television, he emphasized that it is authentic.

Femi explained to hosts O’Shea Jackson and TJ Jefferson that his ability to code-switch, a skill he developed after living in the United States for seven years. He shared how he switches between accents depending on the context, such as speaking casually in public. “Both accents are real for me,” he said, adding that he intentionally used this ability during his promo to engage fans and give them “something to talk about.”

“It’s played up on TV for sure, but this is how I talk. I can also code-switch because I’ve been in the States, it’s played up on TV for sure, but this is how I talk. I can also code-switch because I’ve been in the States for like seven years. So if I go to the store and I’m like, ‘Hey man, you put that thing in the bag,’ I can do both.

People think, ‘Oh, one is real, one is fake.’ But no, both are me. I just have the ability to code-switch.  for like seven years. So if I go to the store and I’m like, ‘Hey man, you put that thing in the bag,’ I can do both. People think, ‘Oh, one is real, one is fake.’ But no, both are me. I just have the ability to code-switch.”

Femi also discussed his mindset as a champion, noting that while he didn’t grow up dreaming of his current position, he always believed he could achieve it. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to entertain fans and clarified that his promo decisions were deliberate.

Now holding the NXT Championship, Femi has become a prominent target in the division. Fans have praised his honesty and ability to connect with the audience. As WWE continues to develop storylines around him, Femi’s unique personality and skills will likely play a key role in his championship reign.

Final TNA Impact Before Genesis: The Hardys in Action Tonight

Staff
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Final TNA Impact Before Genesis: The Hardys in Action Tonight

TNA Impact returns tonight at 8/7c on AXS TV, Sportsnet 360, and TNA+. This episode is the final stop before this weekend’s TNA Genesis 2025 pay-per-view (Sunday, January 19), where Joe Hendry is set to challenge Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship.

In a high-stakes main event, PCO and Sami Callihan will face TNA World Tag Team Champions Matt and Jeff Hardy in a non-title match. If PCO and Callihan secure a victory, they will be added to the World Tag Team title match at Genesis, joining The Hardys and The Rascalz.

TNA Impact Preview: January 16, 2025

  • The Hardys vs. PCO and Sami Callihan
  • Trent Seven vs. Leon Slater
  • Laredo Kid vs. Jake Something
  • Eric Young & Steve Maclin vs. First Class (AJ Francis & KC Navarro)

The show will also feature a Pre-Launch Championship Celebration by Ash By Elegance and Heather By Elegance.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest TNA Wrestling news.

Catch up on the moments from last week’s TNA Impact:

Matt Hardy Wants To Bring TNA World Tag Titles to WWE

Thomas Lowson
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Matt Hardy Wants To Bring TNA World Tag Titles to WWE

Fans can expect to see TNA’s Matt Hardy as part of WWE programming soon, including a genuine possibility of an in-ring return. On the latest edition of the Insight podcast, Hardy shared that he has filmed content for the Sports Entertainment juggernaut that will be dropping soon.

“We filmed some content for WWE that’ll probably be dropping pretty soon. I saw the Dudleys did it the day before us, and I know theirs just dropped recently.”

Matt parted ways with WWE in 2020 but the “perfect storm arose” that has allowed him to work with the company recently. Matt also believes that WWE’s ongoing partnership with TNA could make an in-ring return possible.

“I feel good about that… I think you could see us pop up even as TNA champs on some WWE show.”

Matt and Jeff are currently in their third reign as TNA World Tag Team Champions after capturing the gold from The System at Bound for Glory in October 2024. Though the champs have yet to resurface in WWE, TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich was spotted at the January 14, edition of WWE NXT.

Masha Slamovich Teases Future WWE NXT Role After Surprise Appearance

Decades after debuting in WWE in the mid 1990s, there’s still no shortage of love for Matt and Jeff Hardy among fans. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on the Hardy Boyz, and whether a TNA World Tag Title defense in a WWE ring is in store for the iconic duo.

Masha Slamovich Teases Future WWE NXT Role After Surprise Appearance

Thomas Lowson
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Masha Slamovich Teases Future WWE NXT Role After Surprise Appearance

The January 15 edition of WWE NXT may not mark the last appearance of TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich on the brand. During the episode, Slamovich, who captured the title by defeating Jordynne Grace at October’s Bound For Glory, was seen in the crowd ahead of Cora Jade’s match against Kelani Jordan.

After the show, WWE’s cameras caught Slamovich in conversation with NXT head Shawn Michaels. Slamovich expressed her gratitude for the invitation and hinted that a return to NXT could involve stepping into the ring.

“I said that I was going to bring this title around the world and find the best people to defend it, and so far, I like what I see.”

Michaels responded by saying that he’s only a phone call away, teasing that fans could see much more of Slamovich in WWE. On X, Slamovich continued to suggest that her appearance wasn’t a one-off with a heated interaction with Cora Jade.

Slamovich’s appearance is the latest example of the talent-exchange between WWE NXT and TNA Wrestling. In 2024, several stars crossed the line, including Jordynne Grace. Grace not only competed for the NXT Women’s Title but also defended the TNA Knockouts World Championship on the September 10 edition of WWE NXT against Sol Ruca.

It remains to be seen if Slamovich will put the title on the line in a WWE NXT ring, but this partnership guarantees that it’s a possibility. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Slamovich who is proving to be a fighting champion in and out of TNA Wrestling.

Shawn Michaels Hopes For “Long-Standing Relationship” Between NXT & TNA Wrestling

AEW Grand Slam: Australia to Air on TNT and MAX for Free

Thomas Lowson
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AEW Grand Slam: Australia, the promotion’s first event in the country, will not be a pay-per-view, but instead a TV special by Tony Khan’s promotion.

The show will air on TNT and stream for free on MAX at 8pm EST on Saturday, February 15. The show will replace that week’s edition of AEW Collision. The show will take place in Brisbane, Australia at 5:30pm local time, which is equivalent to 2:30 AM Eastern Time, meaning the show will air on a tape delay. On AEW Dynamite: Maximum Carnage, Toni Storm punched her ticket to Australia by winning the Casino Gauntlet Match. The AEW ‘rookie’ will challenge Women’s World Champion Mariah May in a rematch from All In: London 2024.

AEW Grand Slam: Australia will take place inside the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, though this wasn’t the show’s original venue. AEW first announced the show for Suncorp Stadium before moving the event in November 2024. Though AEW has not publicly stated why the show was moved, it is believed that underperforming ticket sales forced the change to the smaller venue.

AEW’s Australian event won’t be the only wrestling show on February 15. That same night, WWE NXT will host its Vengeance Day event from the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Later in 2025, WWE and AEW will clash again when WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12 coincides with AEW All In: Texas, the promotion’s first U.S. stadium-sized event.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on AEW Grand Slam: Australia, as the promotion’s first event in the country continues to take shape.

Thunder Rosa Highlights Penta’s Struggles After Raw Debut

Anutosh Bajpai
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Thunder Rosa Highlights Penta’s Struggles After Raw Debut

Thunder Rosa got emotional talking about Penta’s WWE debut.

The masked star defeated Chad Gable in his debut match on this week’s episode of Raw. The wrestling star’s whole family was at the ringside for this moment and their emotion showed what the night meant for the 39-year-old.

Thunder Rosa who has worked with the high-flying star in multiple different companies talked about the whole thing on Busted Open Radio recently. The former AEW Women’s Champion first highlighted the struggles of both Penta and his brother Rey Fenix from a very early age:

“Penta’s been a friend of mine for a while. I got really close once he came to AEW, I’ve worked with him since Lucha Underground. So I’ve seen his rise to every platform that he’s worked. Seeing him with his family, like his daughters, I met his daughters, I hang out with his daughters, his wife. It was very special, because he started working.

And his place of birth, which is Ecatepec de Morelos, which is one of the most dangerous places in Mexico City. Him and his brother worked so hard from, you know, carrying things in Mercado De Abastos [Farmer’s market], five, six days a week. Then they were training, and they were getting paid, literally, they call it Luchadores Moleros, which is they get paid by a soda and a plate of food.”

It Means A Lot: Thunder Rosa

Thunder Rosa herself got emotional discussing the importance of representation for the Hispanic community. She proclaimed that Penta’s debut is a proud moment for her:

“So just imagine that. That was like probably 20 years ago, when they both, both of them started. Seeing them how they have been able to transcend barriers in everything, because they both had to learn English at a older age.

Seeing what he said like it really got in my heart, because I’ve seen his struggles, and I sat with him and he’s all about business. He has a great influence in me, personally. I get a little emotional because at a time in where things are changing so quickly, seeing someone like that being an example of hard work takes you to places, and you will utilize every platform that you can to become successful, it means a lot.

Representation means everything. This is a beautiful moment for Hispanics in professional wrestling, because finally, we are seeing some change, and we’re seeing that they’re respecting our traditions and that we’re given a space where we can be ourselves. So that’s why I was so proud.”

Corey Graves Misses WWE Speed After Social Media Outburst

Thomas Lowson
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Corey Graves Misses WWE Speed After Social Media Outburst

Corey Graves has been a crucial voice on WWE programming for years, but his future with the promotion continues to remain uncertain. This week, Graves took to X to share his frustrations with his current position in WWE, and has now missed multiple events.

Graves was missing from the latest episode of WWE Speed, which saw Chad Gable facing NXT star Charlie Dempsey. Though Graves has been the sole voice of the X-exclusive show since its launch last year, Blake Howard filled in as the play-by-play commentator for the match. His absence comes after he missed this week’s WWE NXT, a show that Graves had previously stated he’d be a part of.

Graves posted on X on Tuesday, January 14, that he’d spent years working hard only to be told “you’re not famous enough for your own job.” Though the Savior of Misbehavior didn’t name names, many saw this line as a dig at Joe Tessitore and Pat McAfee, both of whom are established names in broadcasting outside WWE. McAfee was brought back as a Raw commentator last week while Tessitore has replaced Graves on SmackDown. Graves has since deleted his post.

WWE has yet to give a public update on Graves’ standing with the company but fans are eager to learn what the future looks like for him and if a return to the main roster is viable. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Corey Graves and his journey in WWE.

MJF Evokes Owen Hart In Fiery Promo With Jeff Jarrett

Thomas Lowson
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MJF Evokes Owen Hart In Fiery Promo With Jeff Jarrett

AEW Dynamite took an emotional turn this week, as MJF evoked Owen Hart during his in-ring segment with Jeff Jarrett. During a tense promo, MJF suggested that Jarrett was leveraging his friendship with the late Owen Hart to maintain relevance on screen.

“What really makes me mad is that just because you were best friends with Owen Hart, you think you’re owed a grand finale.”

Jarrett had remained calm against MJF’s earlier barbs but this comment rattled the WWE Hall of Famer. However, this time, Jarrett snapped, landing a decisive right hand on MJF. Security and Jarrett’s crew rushed to separate the two, with MJF narrowly escaping the ring and nearly coming face-to-face with Karen Jarrett.

Jarrett had some choice words of his own for MJF in their promo, including labelling the former AEW World Champion a leech and stating that “I was MJF before you were MJF.” Jarrett recently shared that he is on his final contract as an in-ring talent, and plans to capture the AEW World Championship before he retires from competition.

Owen Hart’s tragic passing at WWF Over the Edge 1999 remains one of wrestling’s darkest moments, over 25 years after his fall. Nevertheless, the legacy of the Rocket carries on, with AEW hosting its annual Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Jeff Jarrett and his bitter feud with MJF.

Toni Storm Earns AEW Women’s World Title Shot, Megan Bayne Arrives

Andrew Ravens
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Toni Storm Earns AEW Women’s World Title Shot, Megan Bayne Arrives

Toni Storm is set to challenge for the AEW Women’s World Championship, currently held by Mariah May, in a highly anticipated matchup. Storm earned her #1 contender spot on this week’s episode of Dynamite, held at Broadbent Arena in Louisville, KY, by winning the Casino Gauntlet Match. The bout featured a strong lineup, including rising star Megan Bayne, but Storm emerged victorious to secure her place at the top.

This storyline adds an intriguing layer, as Storm has reverted to a past gimmick as part of a narrative where she is portrayed as having dementia, with no memory of her prior accomplishments. The history between Storm and May adds further drama, as Storm previously lost the AEW Women’s World Championship to May at All In: London before taking a hiatus.

With her victory, Storm now has the opportunity to reclaim the title at Grand Slam Australia. The event will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Brisbane, Queensland, marking a significant milestone in AEW’s international expansion.

Samoa Joe Returns On AEW Dynamite

Andrew Ravens
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Samoa Joe Returns On AEW Dynamite

Samoa Joe made his return to AEW television during Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite. After HOOK faced Christian Cage in a hard-fought match, Cage, alongside Nick Wayne, attacked HOOK. Joe, accompanied by Katsuyori Shibata, ran out to make the save, ending the segment with a show of force.

Joe had been absent from AEW programming since July 2023, when he was written off television following a brutal street fight against Chris Jericho on Dynamite. In that match, Jericho, aided by Big Bill and Bryan Keith, used a forklift to drive Joe through a wall, resulting in the bout being stopped. HOOK was notably absent, having been sidelined after a fireball attack from Jericho the week prior. Katsuyori Shibata was also missing from the event. Following the match, Joe was stretchered out and loaded into an ambulance to signify his temporary departure from AEW.

Joe’s hiatus was due to his commitment to filming the second season of Peacock’s hit series Twisted Metal, where he portrays Sweet Tooth, a fan-favorite character from the classic PlayStation franchise. The show, starring Anthony Mackie, Stephanie Beatriz, Tahj Vaughans, Chelle Ramos, and Michael Carollo, became Peacock’s most-binged original in its first week. It ranked among the platform’s top three original series of all time. In December 2023, Peacock announced the renewal of Twisted Metal for a second season.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

img 7052 1

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

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

Jaida Parker addressed the situation in this reply:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Logan Paul vs. John Cena

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

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

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

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

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

AEW Presents ‘Maximum Carnage’ Dynamite Tonight from Cincinnati

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

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

AEW Dynamite Preview (January 15, 2025)

Confirmed Matches and Segments for Tonight’s AEW Dynamite:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlotte Flair

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

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

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

Ethan Page Thrives in NXT: A Brand Run by Wrestlers

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

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

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

“This company is run by wrestlers.”

Ethan Page on NXT

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

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

Ethan Page

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


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

Ethan Page’s NXT Championship Reign

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

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

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

Tony Schiavone Explains Absence from AEW Dynamite Amid Suspension Rumors

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

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

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

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

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

Why Has Tony Schiavone Been Off AEW TV?

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

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

Tony Schiavone explains his absense from AEW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chelsea Green vs. Penta (Lucha Underground)

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

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

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

Penta Arrives: Meet WWE’s New Dark Luchador

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Cena Explains Importance Of His Super Cena Era

Anutosh Bajpai
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John Cena Explains Importance Of His Super Cena Era

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

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

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

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

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

Sometimes You Got To Win A Lot: John Cena

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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