DELTA is set to make her highly anticipated WWE NXT debut this Sunday at the Halloween Havoc event in Hershey, PA, hosted at the GIANT Center. WWE confirmed her arrival during Tuesday’s episode of NXT, where they officially revealed her new ring name: ZARIA. Though the company has not yet announced her opponent for the event, fans have been eagerly awaiting her in-ring debut following a series of vignettes hyping her introduction.
DELTA’s Background
DELTA entered the wrestling scene in late December 2020 and quickly made a name for herself. She predominantly wrestled for Riot City Wrestling. During her time there, she achieved notable success, capturing the Women’s, Heavyweight, Grand, and Tag Team Championships.
Her impressive performances earned her a contract with WWE after a standout tryout during Elimination Chamber Week earlier this year. DELTA completed her wrestling commitments in Australia in July before officially joining WWE.
The Halloween Havoc Premium Live Event is expected to be headlined by NXT Champion Trick Williams, who will defend his title against Ethan Page in a Devil’s Playground Match.
Braun Strowman has found himself sidelined following a Last Monster Standing match against Bronson Reed on a recent episode of WWE Raw. During the bout, Reed delivered a superplex to Strowman, causing the ring to collapse. This set the stage for Seth Rollins’ return, as he emerged to hit Reed with a stomp on the steel steps. As a result, Strowman picked up the win.
However, reports soon emerged that Strowman had sustained an injury during the match, believed to be a torn groin. Strowman later confirmed the nature of the injury himself.
Injury Update
The WWE Raw star provided an update in an interview with The Schmo over the weekend, where he served as an honorary starter at a NASCAR playoff race in Las Vegas. Strowman shared that he is still undergoing rehab to recover from his injury.
“Well, they call me the Monster of All Monsters for a reason [laughs],” Strowman said when asked how he’s managing to stay active despite the torn groin. “It’s unfortunate, but that’s part of the job. We know we’re not signing up for water polo or ballet, so things happen in our sport. The show goes on, and you’ve got to suck it up and get it done.”
Strowman mentioned that while he has been off for the past few weeks, he is continuing his rehabilitation. “I’m flying back to Orlando to get more rehab this week, then next week we’re in Hershey, PA, before heading to Saudi Arabia for the big one [Crown Jewel].”
On the January 4, 2010, edition of WWE Raw, Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels reconciled in the ring, over a dozen years after the events of Survivor Series 1997. The pair had been at odds both before, and long after the events of that fateful November night in Montreal, and TJ Wilson played a role in the reconciliation, according to WWE veteran Natalya.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Natalya shared that it was Wilson who helped bridge the gap between Michaels and Hart years after the Montreal Screwjob.
“TJ had said something to Bret like, ‘I had a really great talk with Shawn and he was awesome and he was so nice to me and he was so nice to Nattie and he was just such a cool guy. He was giving me advice and being really helpful.”
Shawn disclosed that he felt “so bad” about his past issues with Bret, Natalya added, and that it was Wilson who “opened up the conversation” between the two WWE legends.
“We can all thank TJ for being the person that opened up that door because TJ is somebody that Bret really respects, and (he) trusts his word.”
During the interview, Natalya spoke about Michaels in his current role as WWE SVP of Talent Development and head of NXT. The Showstopper has been praised by many for his work with the silver brand and the former Divas Champion is no exception.
“Shawn is so encouraging to everyone. He makes you feel so good after you get back, so happy and so good about yourself. I honestly just had the best experience at NXT. And I’m always excited about the opportunity of going back.”
As for Hart, he appeared on Monday Night Raw last month in his native Calgary, where he unsurprisingly got a hero’s welcome from the Canadian crowd. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from Bret and Shawn as the two icons of the ring have been able to put their differences aside and move forward with their lives.
Deonna Purrazzo has opened up about being body-shamed online and various wrestling personalities and fans coming to her support.
The Virtuosa has been carving a unique spot for herself in the women’s wrestling space over the last few years. After being rejected by WWE early in her career, Purrazzo showed that she can lead a division with her TNA run. She is now finding her place in the AEW locker room after officially joining the company in January this year.
Getting the spotlight on stages like these, however, comes with some consequences as well. Deonna has had to deal with negativity and body shaming online in recent times.
The 3-time Impact Knockouts Champion opened up about defending herself from such troll comments during an interview with Chris Van Vliet. She explained that she needed to speak up because she is much more than just her looks or a number on a scale:
“Oh my gosh, yes they did. That’s the unfortunate beauty of the internet is when people come for you for such silly things like your body or whatever it is. I wanted to defend myself.
I felt like I needed to say something, and what I said, I mean, I feel in my heart and soul like I’m so much more than what my body looks like. I’m so much more than a number on the scale.”
Deonna Purrazzo sent out a tweet earlier this year after some trolls targeted her following her AEW debut. She mentioned how her worth is not determined by her body or other’s perception. A number of wrestling veterans including the likes of Mickie James and Brian Myers came to her support after this.
I tweeted because I thought it was important to let it be known that we, all of us, see the negative comments/tweets and it does effect us. We are humans too.
Also because it’s important to show other women and girls that their value is not defined by their body. Rather, their…
The former TNA star seems to be taking things more positively since then. She mentioned how her husband Steve Maclin supports her no matter what and it’s all that matters:
“First of all, I’ve never been a size small, but my husband loves me whether I would be a small or I’d be an extra extra large, like he thinks I’m beautiful no matter what. And honestly, that’s all that matters. I have a college degree. I’m working on getting a master’s degree.
I have worked in every company in the world. There’s a reason people want to work with me, because of my body of work, not my body, and for people to agree with that and then say such nice things, I cried because the internet hurt my feelings, but then I cried because the love I felt for my friends and my family.”
Purrazzo has competed against names such as Toni Storm, Thunder Rosa and Mariah May since joining AEW full-time. She is still in the hunt for her first championship in the company.
Check out our exclusive interview with Deonna Purrazzo from earlier this year:
Samantha Irvin shared this week that she has left WWE in a lengthy statement by the former Raw ring announcer posted on social media. Since then, a lot has been said about Irvin’s exit from WWE and the 35-year-old has clarified one false statement about her exit.
One report that has come out is that Irvin informed WWE mere hours before this week’s Monday Night Raw that she was leaving the promotion. On X, Irvin clarified that she informed WWE months ago, rather than hours before this week’s edition of the red brand.
Irvin joined WWE in 2021 on the recommendation of WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry and was praised for her passionate, enthusiastic calls on TV and at PLEs. Following this year’s WrestleMania, where she announced every match, Irvin was praised by Michael Buffer, arguably the most recognized ring announcer in the history of combat sports.
Before arriving in WWE, Irvin was an accomplished flutist and singer and made a name for herself with an appearance on America’s Got Talent. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Samantha Irvin both in the world of wrestling and beyond the squared circle.
In May, Drew Gulak parted ways with WWE, following claims by Ronda Rousey that he had acted inappropriately during her tenure with the company. Now, Gulak is re-establishing himself outside of the promotion, and a recent angle with Beyond Wrestling made reference to his controversial actions and WWE departure.
At the latest Beyond show, Gulak was in the ring with Masha Slamovich. In his promo, Gulak made references to the female star potentially being uncomfortable in the locker room with him, in a clear reference to the Rousey situation.
“Anytime we’ve been in Beyond Wrestling, did I ever make you feel uncomfortable? At any time, did you feel like I was a danger in the locker room? Well, you should have.”
Gulak then attacked Slamovich as part of the show. On social media, many criticized Gulak and Beyond Wrestling for making the controversy from earlier this year into an angle.
Drew Gulak doing the most annoying "I can't be a sex pest" indie work shoot storyline? Thank god he is gone from my Federation and my NQCC. https://t.co/7yTpvhpNHT
I don't know what's worse… Beyond Wrestling booking him in this angle or Drew Gulak having the nerve to do this. Safety in the locker rooms, at training and in the ring is no hook for an angle. Not all attention is good. This is awkward shit.@beyondwrestling@DrewGulakpic.twitter.com/41KIGipAil
— Honeycakeman (Insta: wrestling_focus) (@honeycakeman) October 22, 2024
Beyond Wrestling fucking sucks and Drew Gulak is a punk bitch Also that bum running it is a weirdo and I can't wait for his downfall https://t.co/bY4TcxkidT
— Ho. J. Simpson??#BlackLivesMatter (@AlecRPar) October 22, 2024
While Beyond Wrestling has the right to book its shows how they see fit, many fans feel that referencing Gulak’s situation with Rousey is a step too far, especially amid the ongoing Vince McMahon scandal and Janel Grant’s lawsuit. With the topic of female safety in wrestling being as relevant as ever, it remains to be seen if Beyond will continue to make reference to Gulak’s departure from the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.
Appearing for AEW’s new All Elite Showon Fox Sports Mexico, Storm was asked about the current situation regarding a return to AEW. Instead, the former champion said she’s thinking about settling down in Mexico to fulfill a culinary dream.
“There is no situation. Life just is what it is right now. I’m thinking of moving here permanently. I’m thinking of setting up my own taco stand and living a happy, peaceful life here in Mexico. I think it will be best.”
Storm even shared a name for her new venture, which if successful could mark the end of her days in the ring.
“Everybody will come to Toni’s Tacos! That’s my business, that’s my next venture. Maybe I’ll never go back to AEW. I think Toni’s Tacos is it!”
Storm signed off with a variation of her beloved catchphrase, telling viewers “Chin up, tits out, and watch for the taco!” While fans can expect Storm back in an AEW ring eventually, possibly at AEW Grand Slam 2025 in Australia, don’t be surprised if you find the Timeless star selling dishes like ‘Taco-rita Hayworth‘ and ‘Charlton Ques-ton‘ the next time you’re in Mexico.
As TNA Wrestling gears up for its biggest event of the year, fans are eagerly anticipating the thrilling matchups and potential surprises in store. Bound For Glory 2024 is set to take place on October 26, 2024, at the Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit, Michigan. Let’s dive into our predictions for this star-studded event.
The main event of Bound For Glory 2024 is expected to be a hard-hitting contest for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. Current champion Nic Nemeth will defend his title against Joe Hendry in what promises to be an intense battle.
Adding to the drama, Frankie Kazarian has been announced as the special guest referee, bringing an extra layer of intrigue to this high-stakes match.
Prediction: Nic Nemeth retains
While Joe Hendry presents a formidable challenge, Nic Nemeth’s momentum and star power make him the favorite to retain the championship. The wildcard here is Frankie Kazarian as referee, which could lead to some unexpected twists in the match outcome.
TNA Bound For Glory – Tag Team Championship Match: Full Metal Mayhem
The TNA Tag Team Championships will be on the line in a Full Metal Mayhem match, featuring The System (Brian Myers & Eddie Edwards) defending against The Hardy Boys (Matt Hardy & Jeff Hardy) and ABC (Ace Austin & Chris Bey).
Prediction: The Hardy Boys capture the gold
This match has all the ingredients for a show-stealer. The Hardy Boys’ experience in high-risk matches gives them an edge, and a title win would be a fitting highlight for the legendary duo.
Knockouts Championship
Jordynne Grace will put her Knockouts Championship on the line against the fierce Masha Slamovich2. This clash of styles promises to be a hard-hitting affair.
Prediction: Jordynne Grace retains
Grace’s reign has been impressive, and while Slamovich will push her to the limit, expect the champion to emerge victorious in a closely contested match.
X-Division Championship
“Speedball” Mike Bailey defends the X-Division Championship against the high-flying Vikingo. This match has the potential to be a show-stealer with its fast-paced, high-risk action.
Prediction: Mike Bailey retains
Bailey’s technical prowess combined with his agility makes him a tough champion to dethrone. Expect an incredible display of athleticism from both competitors.
Monsters Ball Match: Digital Media and International Heavyweight Championships
In a unique stipulation, PCO puts both the Digital Media and International Heavyweight Championships on the line against Matt Cardona in a Monsters Ball match2.
Prediction: Matt Cardona wins
The unpredictable nature of the Monsters Ball match favors Cardona, who could walk away with both titles in a shocking turn of events.
TNA Bound For Glory: Knockouts Tag Team Championship
Spitfire (Dani Luna & Jody Threat) defend their Knockouts Tag Team Championships against the intriguing pairing of Wendy Choo & Rosemary.
Prediction: Spitfire retains
The chemistry of the established team Spitfire should give them the edge in this encounter, though expect a strong showing from the challengers.
TNA Bound For Glory: Other Notable Matches
Mike Santana vs. Moose: A grudge match that could steal the show2.
Josh Alexander vs. Steve Maclin: Two of TNA’s top talents collide in what should be a technical masterpiece.
TNA Wrestling’s biggest event of the year, Bound For Glory 2024, is set to electrify fans around the world on Saturday, October 26. This highly anticipated pay-per-view will emanate from the Wayne State University Fieldhouse in Detroit, Michigan, marking the city’s first time hosting the event since 2006.
As wrestling enthusiasts gear up for an action-packed night, it’s crucial to know when and how to catch all the excitement, no matter where you are.
Bound For Glory 2024 will take place on Saturday, October 26, at the Wayne State University Fieldhouse in Detroit, Michigan.
This venue choice brings the event back to the Motor City after nearly two decades, promising a nostalgic yet fresh experience for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
TNA Bound For Glory Start Times
The main card for Bound For Glory 2024 is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (ET). Here’s a breakdown of start times for various regions:
United States and Canada
Eastern Time (ET): 8:00 PM, Saturday, October 26
Pacific Time (PT): 5:00 PM, Saturday, October 26
Europe
United Kingdom (UK): 1:00 AM, Sunday, October 27
Central European Time (CET): 2:00 AM, Sunday, October 27
Australia
Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): 10:00 AM, Sunday, October 27
Australian Central Standard Time (ACST): 9:30 AM, Sunday, October 27
Australian Western Standard Time (AWST): 8:00 AM, Sunday, October 27
TNA Wrestling’s biggest event of the year, Bound For Glory 2024, is set to take place on October 26, 2024, at the Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit, Michigan. This highly anticipated pay-per-view (PPV) event promises to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments for wrestling fans worldwide.
If you’re looking to catch all the action, here’s everything you need to know about watching the TNA Bound For Glory 2024 live stream.
TNA Wrestling has made it easy for fans to access the Bound For Glory 2024 live stream through various platforms. Here are the primary ways to watch the event:
TNA+ and TrillerTV
The most straightforward method to watch Bound For Glory 2024 is through TNA+ or TrillerTV. These platforms will be streaming the event live in both the United States and the United Kingdom. TrillerTV, powered by FITE, is the official streaming partner for TNA Wrestling events.
Pay-Per-View (PPV)
For those who prefer traditional PPV options, the event will be available as a pay-per-view purchase. Check with your local cable or satellite provider for availability and pricing details.
International Viewing Options
While specific international broadcasting details may vary, TNA+ and TrillerTV are likely to be the primary streaming options for viewers outside the US and UK.
Deonna Purrazzo’s efforts to make it in WWE saw the Virtuosa end up in debt, just to be informed that she didn’t stand out enough. Purrazzo first appeared for WWE in 2014 as one of Adam Rose’s ‘Rosebuds’ in 2014 before making her in-ring debut the following year. On a recent edition of the Insight podcast, Purrazzo spoke about trying to make it in WWE, which proved to be a costly endeavor at the time.
“Late 2015, early 2016, I was in NXT at the tapings every other week. I was there 24/7 flying myself, actively going into debt so I could be in Orlando, Florida, to wrestle for NXT.”
Despite Purrazzo’s best efforts, she wouldn’t be signed at the time and would have to wait until 2018 before finally securing a contract. When asked why WWE didn’t pick her up three years earlier, the Virtuosa was somewhat flummoxed.
“That’s a really great question. I don’t know. Kind of always the answer was that I was a five-foot-two brunette, and there was a ton of us on the Indies.
“February 2016 they were just like ‘we have too many of you right now and go out there and keep making a name for yourself, and maybe it’ll come full circle.'”
Purrazzo would sign with WWE in April 2018 while backstage at a Shimmer Women Athletes event. Her signing resulted in her pulling out of that year’s All In, a precursor to AEW. Unfortunately, Purrazzo’s time under contract would see her wrestle just 16 times on TV before her release in April 2020.
Undeterred, Purrazzo reinvented herself after her release and would become a premier star in Impact Wrestling before joining AEW earlier this year. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Purrazzo as she looks to capture the AEW Women’s World Championship.
On Instagram, Garcia shared her excitement to be back in WWE after years away and spoke of her nerves surrounding her first night back on the job.
”Well, now you know. Oh my gosh, guys did just happen? Did I just really go back to the WWE, after being gone for like 8 years? I mean, I’ve popped in every now and then but it’s been 8 years since I’ve been a full-time announcer there. My goodness, when my music hit and I got introduced, the cheers and applause that you gave me tonight, thank you for that.
“Because I was nervous, I could even tell I was nervous when I was announcing. But it is all worth, all worth taking a risk and a gamble and just coming back. Just seeing everyone, like the WWE Superstars, my friends, the crew and I’m excited and I’m strapping on my seatbelt for that.
Lilian also had a message for Samantha Irvin, and sees huge things in the future for the announcer she has replaced.
“Sam, I do wanna tell you, I think you’re an extraordinary talent and you’re unbelievable and I know it wasn’t easy to walk away from here and I wish you all the success in your music career, I know you’re gonna kill it. Okay WWE Universe I look forward to seeing you, signing your autographs, giving you high fives and all of that, I love you. I’m back home!”
Irvin and Garcia have often been compared, much to the delight of the former WWE Raw ring announcer who is now ready to spread her wings outside the company. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Lilian Garcia now that she’s home in WWE once more.
Irvin was not released from WWE but chose to resign, PW Insider reports. WWE was reportedly made aware of her decision earlier in the day before she shared her statement to social media.
Fightful Select reports that those in WWE had high praise for Irvin, both before and after her announcement. One source described the 35-year-old as a “presence that made the work day better.” Those in WWE shared their surprise at the news, adding that she couldn’t have possibly informed everyone before leaving.
An AEW Future?
With her fiancé Ricochet debuting for AEW at All In: London in August, fans have naturally speculated as to whether Irvin could make the jump to reunite with her One and Only. Those in WWE and AEW said that they would be shocked if an attempt wasn’t made by AEW to bring her on board, considering Ricochet’s arrival in recent months. Many people in WWE expected her to leave the company after Ricochet did, pointing out the easier schedule for their family. Responding to a fan on X, Ricochet said Irvin is not joining AEW, and Irvin herself rejected the idea days before sharing that she was leaving WWE.
WWE has announced that Seth Rollins will be going up against Bronson Reed in a singles match at the upcoming Crown Jewel special.
This week’s episode of Monday Night Raw featured another chaotic confrontation between the two stars. It started with Rollins calling out Reed during the opening segment of the show.
The security tried to stop the two WWE stars from getting physical but failed. Reed tried a couple of times to deliver a Tsunami on Rollins but the Architect moved out of the way. The segment ended with Bronson going through the announce desk at the ringside.
Bronson Reed’s reign of terror started with an attack on Seth Rollins back on the August 5 Raw. The former Shield member then returned to cost Reed his Last Monster Standing Match against Braun Strowman on the September 30 episode of the show. The two stars have been feuding since then.
This is the third match that has been announced for Crown Jewel apart from the two champion vs champion bouts made official by Triple H previously. Here is the updated card for the show:
WWE Crown Jewel Championship Match: Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes vs. World Heavyweight Champion Gunther
WWE Women’s Crown Jewel Championship Match: Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan vs. Women’s Champion Nia Jax
Singles Match: Seth Rollins vs. Bronson Reed
WWE Crown Jewel will be taking place on Saturday, November 2 from the Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Cody Rhodes wrestled in a first-time-ever match after this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania went off air.
The Bloodline made their presence felt in the main event of the Red Branded Show this week. The match featured Jey Uso defending the Intercontinental Championship against Bron Breakker.
Solo Sikoa and his disciples first showed up claiming that they wanted to help their cousin. Things went sour quickly however and Fatu in the end took out Jey. This allowed Breakker to pin the former Bloodline member and win the title back.
While the rest of the Bloodline seemingly retreated after this match, Jacob Fatu stayed around. He competed in a Philadelphia Street Fight against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes after the show went off air.
The Samoan Warewolf took the loss in what was his singles debut for the company. He had previously wrestled only tag team matches since his debut back in June.
The American Nightmare did not appear on the broadcast of the show this week. Though he has invited the World Heavyweight Champion Gunther for a face-to-face confrontation on Friday’s SmackDown.
The Friday Night show may also feature Jey Uso again. The now former champion will be looking for an explanation from his family members about the events of Raw.
I will miss seeing your smiling face at work! I am so lucky to have shared the ring with you & even more lucky to have been a part of your iconic ring announcements ?? https://t.co/cCOxw2va0q
We all know Sam is a STAR, But she is also a wonderful person. One of the first to welcome me backstage and was always checking in to make sure the shy new girl was good.
It isn’t just those from the world of wrestling who are sad to see the back of Samantha Irvin as Michael Buffer also shared his reaction. The legendary boxing announcer praised Irvin after her work at this year’s WrestleMania 40 PLE.
NO!? My wife and I are so sorry to hear this as I’m sure millions of other @WWE fans are. Samantha is brilliant & super professional as announcer+her musical talent as a singer & flautist are amazing! All the best to her moving forward w/her career & perhaps we’ll see her in… https://t.co/ZzUD9XfjIj
Irvin joined WWE in 2021, at the recommendation of WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry. Initially part of WWE 205 Live, Irvin rose quickly to the main roster and has announced on both Raw and SmackDown. Her enthusiastic calls for the likes of GUNTHER, Chelsea Green, and others quickly endeared her with fans who will miss her work each week.
We at SEScoops would like to wish Samantha the very best in whatever comes next for her in her career.
Before the October 21, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw went on the air, commentator Joe Tessitore shared that Lilian Garica is back in WWE and will be announcing for the red brand moving forward.
Unfortunately, Garcia showed a bit of rust on the show, as her first announcement of the evening saw an error. Ahead of a tag-team match, Garcia said the match was part of a tournament to determine the “Number one containers” for the World Tag Team Championships.
Garcia had been seen in Philadelphia before this week’s Raw, which led many to speculate that she would be replacing Samantha Irvin as the show’s ring announcer. Garcia was a part of WWE from 1999 to 2009 and had a second run from 2011 to 2019. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Lillian Garcia now that she has once again returned to WWE.
Bron Breakker is IC Champion again thanks to some help from The Bloodline.
The main event of this week’s Raw from Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania featured Jey Uso defending the IC title against Breakker. Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu showed up in the arena halfway through the bout to ‘help’ Jey retain the title.
The duo of Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa were also not far behind. Tonga showed up to encourage the defending champion but things turned into chaos when Jey superkicked his cousin. Tama Tonga then tried to level him but ate a superkick too.
Solo Sikoa still looked to help his cousin and he took a spear from Bron Breakker after pushing Uso out of the harm’s way. Jacob Fatu then came up face-to-face with Breakker to distract him. Jey was not convinced however and he leveled both Fatu and Breakker with a tope suicida.
The ending of the bout saw Adam Pearce running down to escort Tonga and Loa out of the arena. Jey looked to land a spear on his opponent in the meantime but Fatu attacked him.
The Samoan Wearwolf dropped his cousin on top of the announce desk. Bron Breakker then took advantage as he dumped Jey back into the ring for a super spear and the pin.
Jey Uso’s Intercontinental Championship reign ends at only 27 days with his loss while Breakker starts his second run with the title.
These events are likely to motivate Jey to finally join forces with Roman Reigns and Jimmy Uso against Solo Sikoa’s disciples. The group would still be one member short and Sami Zayn may be next on the list of potential allies for the original Tribal Chief.
WWE Hall of Famer Lilian Garcia is currently backstage at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, site of tonight’s WWE Raw. Her presence is especially interesting in the wake of Samantha Irvine’s bombshell announcement that she’s leaving WWE. We’ll find out in a matter of hours if Garcia’s visit is just a social visit, or if she’ll be filling in for Irvine.
Irvine’s exit is understandably the hot topic of conversation this afternoon. Sources at Raw indicate that virtually everyone was caught off-guard by the news, and emphasized how universally well-liked she is.
In addition to Lilian Garcia, there are several wrestlers from the SmackDown brand at the arena. Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes is on hand, as areBloodline leader Solo Sikoa, Women’s World Champion Nia Jax and Bayley.
Tonight’s WWE Raw will feature Bron Breakker challenging Jey Uso for the Intercontinental Championship, WWE Tag Title #1 Contender tournament matches and more.
Chris Jericho’s next Hollywood project, Dark Match, is slated for release on Friday, January 31, 2025. This wrestling-themed action-horror film was one of several exciting titles announced by Shudder during the New York Comic Con.
Dark Match was first announced in December 2022 and is directed by Lowell Dean. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Ayisha Issa (Transplant), Steven Ogg (The Walking Dead, Westworld), Sara Canning (The Vampire Diaries), Michael Eklund (The Call), and Jonathan Cherry (Goon).
Produced by John K. MacDonald, Don Depoe, Michael Feehan, Rhonda Baker, and Michael Peterson, with executive producers Eleanor Wiebe and Chris Jericho, Dark Match promises to thrill action and horror fans alike.
The official synopsis reads: “A small-time wrestling company accepts a lucrative gig in a remote, backwoods town, only to discover that the community is controlled by a mysterious cult leader with sinister plans for their match.”
Jericho, already well-known for his role in the Terrifier movies, is seeing continued success with Terrifier 3, which has grossed nearly $30 million since its debut on October 11, 2024.
Samantha Irvin has announced she’s no longer the ring announcer for WWE Raw, but teases that people should “stay tuned” for the next chapter of her professional career.
In a statement released Monday afternoon, she thanked WWE’s fans, Superstars, crew and the mentors who guided her on her journey. The word going around backstage at the Wells Fargo Center, site of tonight’s WWE Raw, is genuine shock over this high-profile departure.
Irvin was with WWE for four years before announcing her departure on October 21, 2024. After initially pursuing a career as a pro wrestler and participating in tryouts at the Performance Center, she was signed in April 2021 as a ring announcer for WWE 205 Live. She quickly climbed the ranks, first to NXT and then to WWE SmackDown in January 2022. The following year, she was moved to the Raw brand, where she’s worked ever since.
Her impassioned delivery on the microphone, her engaging personality and musical talents made her a fan favorite over the past several years.
“WWE Universe, my time has come to an end as your Monday Night Raw Ring Announcer. I love you all tremendously, and this does not mark the end of my art; I have a lifetime more to share. Thank you to every WWE fan who accepted me.
To the Women’s Locker Room: you are the most incredible group of people on the face of this Earth. I am beyond proud to be your colleague and friend.
To the Crew & Cameramen: I can’t thank you enough for the encouragement, the laughs. You created such a wonderful, positive atmosphere for me. Love you all.
To the WWE Superstars, past and present: I have thanked you since 1989 and will continue to thank you for the rest of my days for entertaining us. For raising the bar over and over again. For risking your bodies and finding new ways to keep us shocked and wanting more.
There is no form of entertainment like this, and not just any entertainer can be a WWE Superstar. The respect I have for you is more than I can express. Thank you for making it so easy to pour emotion and excitement into your introductions.
You are the stars that the stars idolize. It doesn’t get any bigger, and I’m proud to have used my voice to let the world know it.
Thank you Paul Heyman, Michael PS Hayes, and Michael Cole. I will continue to apply what I learned from you to every aspect of my career. Thank you for invigorating my creativity.
Thank you Brian “Road Dogg” James, Scott Armstrong, Gabe Sapolsky, and George Carroll Jr. for giving me my first opportunities to rise to the occasion. Thank you to HHH for trusting me and showcasing me on this platform. Thank you Mark Henry for giving me my big break. I hope I made you proud.
Thank you to all the Coaches, Producers, Medical, Writers, Talent Relations, Makeup, Photography, Social Media, Digital, Travel Department, Catering, Merch, 2K Team, Referees, Security, and Announce Team for everything you did to help me along the way.
To my fans: My entire career I’ve been waiting for you! We are meant to be, and I can prove it. Stay tuned.
All my love! And still…
Samantha”
Samantha Irvin moving on to the next chapter of her career
Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton”) is a lifelong wrestling fan, and he’s not ashamed to share his passion for the unique brand of entertainment. He knows character development as well as anybody, and his eye for talent is locked in on “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio, whom he believes as the best villain in the game. Miranda has made a few WWE television appearances over the years, including a surprise cameo at SummerSlam 2017.
During a recent appearance on Ebro in The Morning, he jokes that he’s “way too into wrestling,” but that qualifies him to heap praise on Mysterio. He likens Dom’s ‘nuclear heat’ to that of the Million Dollar Man, who riled up audiences across the world by using his wealth to degrade and humiliate people.
“I’m way too into wrestling, but I’m loving Dom Mysterio’s heel to super-heel turn. Like he was already over as a heel, and then he left Rhea Ripley for Liv Morgan, and they don’t even let him talk!
They boo so much when he talks that he has to break into Spanish. It’s the most over I’ve seen a heel since the Million Dollar Man was kicking basketballs out from under kids’ hands in the 80’s’.”
– Lin Manuel Miranda on Dominik Mysterio
Dominik Mysterio has come a long way since his WWE in-ring debut in the summer of 2020. Just four years into his WWE career, he’s one of the hottest acts in the business and has established himself a bonafide Superstar outside of the shadow of his famous father.
The first part of US Presidential candidate Donald Trump’s appearance on The Undertaker’s Six Feet Under with Mark Calloway podcast is now online.
The two WWE Hall of Famers discuss a wide range of topics here, including pro wrestling, politics and everything in between. They delved into Trump’s early fascination with wrestling and how he became involved with the sport over time. Trump, an avid wrestling fan for decades, was curious about what’s “real” and what’s not inside the squared circle, asking if wrestlers ever genuinely get angry during matches and what it feels like to take bumps and perform in the ring.
Donald Trump says The Rock reached out to UFC Dana White to get his phone number after his the assassination attempt at the rally in Butler, PA.
The Rock thought it was "sort of incredible" that he survived and "considered it bravery" that he handled it so well. pic.twitter.com/U92ubuZcLs
The discussion then shifted towards wrestling legends, with both sharing thoughts on the greatest wrestlers of all time and the current generation of stars shaping the industry today.
Trump pulled back the curtain on his own world, sharing some of his personal motivations, and what keeps him going at such a hectic pace at 78 years old.
Finally, Trump reflects on showing more of his personal side to the public, and of course, the upcoming election and what’s at stake for the future of the country.
Pro wrestling icon Sting recently revealed that he inked a multi-year deal with AEW. Sting hung up his boots at AEW Revolution earlier this year. He teamed up with Darby Allin and defeated The Young Bucks at the show. While he won’t compete inside the ring, he will continue to stay associated with the promotion.
Sting addressed his future with AEW in an interview on Kayfabe Friends at the 58th Annual Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion. ‘The Icon’ opened up on signing a new contract with AEW. He further added that he signed a deal similar to WWE’s Legends Deal. He highlighted that under the contract, he will make appearances from time to time.
“I signed a multi-year deal with AEW, obviously not to wrestle anymore, but it’s like a licensing deal, a legends deal if you want to call it that. So I’ll do appearances with them on and off, depending on what they want and all.”
– Sting
What Sting is doing after Wrestling
In addition to this, he expressed his love for real estate. He said that he was into real estate investments before becoming a pro wrestling. He said:
“I’ve done real estate, I did real estate before I ever was a pro wrestler, so I’ve always loved real estate. A lot of people say, ‘Oh, are you a real estate agent?’ No, I’m not an agent. I’m an investor. I was flipping houses before flipping houses was a term. So I made money in real estate before wrestling, so I’m doing that again, and I love it.”
– Sting
Sting’s latest appearance for AEW took place at the AEW All In: London 2024 pay-per-view back in August. He came to the aid of his former tag-team partner Darby Allin, who was getting set on fire by The Elite.
Jey Uso is enjoying his first reign with a singles title as the WWE Intercontinental Champion. Ahead of his next title defense against Bron Breakker tonight on WWE Raw, the former Bloodline member hasn’t given up hope on reuniting with his brother.
Jimmy Uso made a surprise return at WWE Bad Blood and came to the aid of Roman Reigns, but he’s yet to make peace with Jey.
During a recent interview with Metro UK, Jey Uso expressed his desire to reform what he calls the greatest tag team in the world, The Usos. They’re one of the most decorated tag teams in history, and Jey can’t help but think about the prospective tag matches awaiting them.
“I would like to [wrestle MCMG] with Jimmy. I feel like with Jimmy… We are the best tag team in the world. We’ve done everything. But I feel like if we did have a comeback, man, I would like to run with those guys.”
– Jey Uso to Metro UK
He also named, “a couple guys from NXT” and AEW stars Lucha Bros. (Pentagon and Rey Fenix) , “but they gotta walk through this door.”
The Usos last teamed together at WrestleMania 39 (April 1, 2023), where they faced and lost the Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles against Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn. Neither team is still together, but the arrival of the MCMG freshens up the tag team division.
Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley have already made an impact following their debuts last week on WWE SmackDown. This coming Friday, they’ll mix it up with DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa).
