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Early Betting Odds For WWE Super Show-Down

Andrew Ravens
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2

The early betting odds for the upcoming WWE Super Show-Down event have been released.

AJ Styles is favored to retain the WWE Title over Samoa Joe, The Miz is likely to beat Daniel Bryan to become the new #1 contender for the WWE Title, and The Undertaker, who will have Kane in his corner, is favored to beat Triple H, who will have WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels in his corner, in a singles match.

Early WWE Super Show-Down Odds

The WWE Super Show-Down pay-per-view event takes place on Saturday, October 6, 2018, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne, Australia and will air on the WWE Network. The favorites to win are listed in bold. Here are the odds, according to Skybet (via Sportskeeda):

The Undertaker (8/15) vs. Triple H (11/8)

AJ Styles (4/7) vs. Samoa Joe (5/4)

Daniel Bryan (6/5) vs. The Miz (8/13)

John Cena and Bobby Lashley (2/7) vs. Kevin Owens and Elias (5/2)

The New Day (8/13) vs. The Bar (6/5)

The Bella Twins and Ronda Rousey (1/9) vs. The Riott Squad (5/1)

The Shield (8/15) vs. Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler, and Drew McIntyre (11/8)

Charlotte Flair (6/4) vs. Becky Lynch (1/2)

Cedric Alexander (6/5) vs. Buddy Murphy (8/13)

Asuka and Naomi (6/5) vs. The Iiconics (6/5) – No Favorites Listed

What are your thoughts on these early betting odds? Sound off in the comment section.

James Storm Teases Potential Return To WWE

Andrew Ravens
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14

James Storm has fans talking and speculating online after a recent photo that he posted on his official Twitter account. The former TNA World Heavyweight Champion posted a photo with a WWE Network official over the weekend, which led to speculation that he could be headed back to the WWE or just having some fun with fans.

https://twitter.com/JamesStormBrand/status/1043622708095934466

Storm debuted in WWE’s developmental brand, NXT, during the October 2015 tapings, which aired on the October 21 episode of NXT by defeating Danny Burch and later appeared on the December 2 episode by defeating Adam Rose. However, Storm opted not to sign with WWE NXT and return to TNA instead. Storm returned to the promotion back in January of 2016.

Now that he is free and clear of Impact Wrestling as he works on the indy scene, it’s always possible that he could make a return to WWE NXT. It was revealed last week that Storm and MLW have already agreed to part ways after his one appearance at MLW War Games.

It should be noted that Storm will be appearing Busted Open Radio with Bully Ray and Dave LeGreca at 11 am on Monday. It’s possible that he clarifies this tweet during that appearance and if he does, we will pass that information along. 

AJ Lee Congratulates CM Punk On First Feature Film

Chris Stephens
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2

AJ Mendez-Brooks (AJ Lee) recently sent out a congratulatory message to her husband, CM Punk. The former WWE Champion just wrapped filming on his first major feature film. The movie is titled “The Girl on the Third Floor.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoFLqqsA-hA/?utm_source=ig_embed

The horror film is set to be released sometime next year.

CM Punk: The Girl On The Third Floor

“At the heart of the film is Don Koch (CM Punk), a man who is failing as a husband,” a description for the film reads. “For years he has skated by on charm and charisma, until it nearly landed him in jail. He now views fixing up an old house as a chance to make up for past mistakes. Meanwhile, his wife, Liz Koch, is concerned about the renovation timeline as they have a baby on the way. With all this pressure it’s no wonder Don responds to the flirtations of an attractive stranger. As Don tears the house apart, it begins to tear him apart as well, revealing the rot behind the drywall.”

The film is written and directed by Travis Stevens. He also worked on the films We Are Still Here, Teenage Cocktail, Cheap Thrills, and Mohawk.

Sean Waltman’s Ex-Wife Has Passed Away

Chris Stephens
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2

Sean Waltman has just announced his ex-wife and mother of his 2 children has passed away. Waltman announced the news recently to his followers on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/TheRealXPac/status/1044007867315937281?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

“I’m numb right now over the death of Terry, my wife of many years & the mother of my children. She lost her battle with Mental Illness & Addiction. She had 2 other children(7 &12)that my kids had to break the news to a short time ago. My heart hurts for them so bad right now.”

Responses To Sean Waltman Losing His Wife

Numerous wrestling personalities have reached out to Waltman to offer condolences. Konnan offered up the following message:

“My heart goes out to you because of this terrible sad scenario that’s occurred, Sean,” Tweeted Matt Hardy. “Thinking about you & the kids.”

“Very sorry for your loss Sean,” Tweeted Dustin Runnells. “Praying for you and the kids.”

https://twitter.com/Zelina_VegaWWE/status/1044070034258059265

Kelly Kelly sent the following to Waltman:

“Hey Sean, I’m so sorry for your loss,” Tweeted Rocky Romero. “My heart goes out to you and your family. Take care my brother.”

The 46-year-old Waltman hasn’t wrestled since July but played a big part in the Starrcast festivities over All In weekend. Waltman performed a live version of his popular podcast, 12360 with X-Pac.

WWE Ranks Triple H’s Five Greatest Rivals, SD Women’s Title Match Added To MSG Show

Daniel Pena
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5

– Who is Triple H’s greatest rival?

According to WWE, “The King of Kings”‘s greatest rival is The Undertaker.

WWE took to Instagram today to rank Triple H’s five greatest rivals and “The Deadman” is ranked at No. 1.

The Undertaker is followed by Shawn Michaels, John Cena, Mick Foley, and The Rock.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoE–95FKsh/

– WWE returns to Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, December 26 with a SmackDown live event and a SmackDown Women’s Championship Match has been added to the card.

The official website of MSG is now advertising Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair with the SmackDown Women’s Championship on the line.

Two other matches have already been announced for the show: AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe in a Steel Cage Match for the WWE Championship, and Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz.

– SmackDown Women’s Champion Becky Lynch is Lilian Garcia’s next guest on Chasing Glory with Lilian Garcia. The interview will be available starting Monday.

After Garcia reveals Lynch as her next guest in the video below, Lynch silently appears with the SmackDown Women’s Championship wrapped around her shoulder. Garcia says, “No words from Becky,” leading Lynch to remark, “You’re gonna have to wait.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn_hMDVA6cd/

NWA Announces Jim Cornette, Tony Schiavone, & Joe Galli To Call Anniversary Show

Chris Stephens
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1

The NWA has posted the full Tim Storm vs Peter Avalon match from Championship Wrestling From Arizona. Following the match, the nearly 70-year old promotion also made an announcement that Jim Cornette will be the color commentator on October 21st when the NWA holds their anniversary show at the Nashville Fairgrounds.

Joe Galli also stated that he will be the play-by-play announcer for the NWA 70th Anniversary show coming up next month. Tony Schiavone will also be calling the main event of the show.

Galli noted he’s been the play-by-play broadcaster for Championship Wrestling From Hollywood for the last 3 years.

Storm recently attacked Championship Wrestling From Arizona matchmaker, Peter Avalon, leading to the match posted below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSqu5Su60lM&feature=youtu.be

NWA 70th Anniversary Special
October 21st, 2018
Nashville Fairgrounds
Nashville, TN

  • NWA World Heavyweight Championship
    Cody (or Willie Mack) (c) vs Nick Aldis

“It’s such an honor to be leading this historic brand into its next chapter,” Corgan said. “The enduring legacy of the National Wrestling Alliance — the men who forged it and the champions who defended it — illuminate our path in 2018. This event celebrates our first full year shepherding this brand while honoring the everlasting milestones, legends and champions of the NWA.”

Cody will defend the NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Willie Mack on September 29th in Las Vegas as part of the ROH tapings.

PCO Says He’s Made More Money This Year Than Any Other In His Career

Chris Stephens
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5

PCO may not be human but he’s made more money this year in wrestling than he did when he was mortal. Pierre Carl Oulette was a recent guest on the Stone Cold Steve Austin podcast and said he’s had more success in his late-career run on the indies than he ever did while with WWF in the 80s, 90s, or ever.

Austin and PCO were talking about the scar on PCO’s chest he received this year when the topic came up. PCO said 2018 tops any other year he’s ever had in wrestling from a financial perspective.

“It made sense to do that (get the scar) because it was part of my character,” PCO said. “It’s a souvenir that’s going to be there from 2018 for the rest of my life, the greatest year of my life as far as a pro-wrestler because I’m making more money this year than I made in 1993 with Vince, in 1995 with Vince, in 1998, 1999, or in 1996 with WCW.”

PCO vs the Undertaker at WrestleMania 35?

If PCO has any say, he wants his epic return to wrestling to culminate in a match with the Undertaker at WrestleMania.

“My goal is to fight the Undertaker at Wrestlemania 35. My PCO character is a bit like a French Frankenstein, and is tailor-made to fight the Deadman,” PCO said to Grizzly Media earlier this summer. “I am presently in an incredible form, and I am in all the major events of the independent scene. I declined an offer from TNA because I really believe that I can reach WWE for one last run.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HM1kkfPtqg&t=36s

Adam Cole On What Got Him Noticed In ROH, Signing With WWE, more….

Chris Stephens
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0

Former NXT North American Champion, Adam Cole, was a guest on the most recent edition of Edge and Christian’s podcast. He mentioned he plans on being NXT Champion within the next 3 months and spoke about why it was the right time for him to sign with WWE.

“When I started coming in for dark matches, they told me I was doing a good job but nothing was really materializing,” Cole said on his beginnings in ROH. “I said, ‘Okay, this isn’t working.'”

Cole realized he wasn’t going to be able to rely on good in-ring work alone. He continued to say it was his promos which got him hired by Ring of Honor.

“I sent Adam Pierce, who at the time was booking ROH, a promo and he really liked it,” he continued. “He booked me for a pre-show promo in the ring as opposed to a match. Jim Cornette happened to be walking by and he really liked the promo. That’s how I ended up getting hired.”

Adam Cole On Signing With WWE

When Cole signed with WWE in 2017, he was a key member of Bullet Club and wrestling in ROH main events. Still, WWE is where Cole has always wanted to go.

“Obviously breaking into wrestling my goal was always to work for WWE,” Cole continued. “I grew up a giant fan and when I broke in I fell in love with wrestling as a whole. I loved my time on the independents but the end game for sure was ending at WWE. It was a good time for me to go, I was hitting a stride in Ring Of Honor so I thought this is a good chance. I had known there was some interest so when my contract expired we came to an agreement for me to start at NXT.”

Carmella Introduces New Look At WWE Live Event

Chris Stephens
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9

She might not be the Smackdown Women’s Champion anymore but Carmella is still one of the featured performers on the brand. She recently introduced a new look at a WWE live event in Tucson, Arizona.

“Mella” looks to have dyed her hair from blonde to brunette.

https://twitter.com/legitkingslayer/status/1043742319600496640?s=12

Carmella has been working in triple threat matches for the Smackdown Women’s Championship at live events lately, though it’s not clear if that’s what match she wrestled in this weekend.

On WWE programming she has been aligned with R-Truth as of late. The two comprise a team for the WWE Mixed Match Challenge as well.

Carmella Lashes Out At Fans Critical Of Divas

The former Smackdown Women’s Champion has been a staunch defender of the term Diva as of late. Recently on Twitter, she responded to an article which blasted the Bella Twins as holding back the women’s evolution.

“This is an embarrassing article,” Carmella Tweeted about an article critical of the Bellas. “Every single woman from the past and current roster have made women’s wrestling what it is. EVERYONE is deserving. Enough of the negativity around the “diva” moniker.”

Smackdown General Manager Paige also chimed in and voiced support for both Brie Bella and Nikki.

AJ Styles on WWE Championship Run and Being 2K19 Cover Star

Jake Skudder
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1

WWE Champion AJ Styles recently appeared as part of a WWE 2K19 event at the Performance Center. Styles made comments on his WWE Championship run and being the cover star for the game when speaking to Cultaholic’s Adam Pacitti.

One aspect of the interview revolved around Styles’ height and how he looks very different to World Champions of days gone by. Styles remarked that “We’re moving in a new direction. Athletes are smaller these days in everything. In American Football, Rugby…guys are not as big as they used to be but they’re faster, quicker. They’re better athletes and I think that’s literally in every sport we’re seeing nowadays. That’s not a bad thing, that’s a good thing for me!”

Styles’ also commented on whether his height affected him being ‘pushed’ in the past; “I’m sure people have looked at me and gone ‘he’s just way too small.’ AJ went on to say that “I don’t disagree. I’m not the biggest guy. So I make everything that I do count. Every move, every strike is going to count.”

AJ also made mention of his huge love for gaming and what being on the 2K19 cover meant to him. “I wanna enjoy being on the cover of 2K19, that’s a huge deal for me, being a gamer.” Styles’ also referred to how he never envisioned his career would take that trajectory; “Who would’ve thought that AJ Styles would not only be the longest reigning Smackdown Champion but he’s also on the cover of the video game. Years ago I couldn’t of imagined this, I wouldn’t of picked me on the cover.”

Here’s the full interview:

 

Cody Rhodes Talks Being a Free Agent, Signing with WWE, ROH or NJPW

Jake Skudder
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1

Cody Rhodes recently appeared on the latest episode of NWA’s ’10 Pounds of Gold’ YouTube series. One of the masterminds behind ‘ALL IN’ defeated Nick Aldis to become NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion at the event on September 1st.

Rhodes discussed his role as NWA Champion and the fact that he would become a Free Agent on January 1st. Cody claimed that “January 1st is a very tricky day. I guess it’s taboo to talk about it but I’m ok to talk about it. I become a free agent.” Rhodes then went on to discuss this past year as a ROH/NJPW talent; “looking at how this year went with my exclusivity with Ring of Honor, how much fun I had. How much of a challenge I was presented. Looking at what I did with New Japan Pro Wrestling, looking at what with All In there was no way to map that out last year…no way. So I feel like I’m so found but I’m also so lost at the same time.”

Cody also described the NWA title as “the thing that tethers me back to reality.” describing his title win moment at ALL IN as “everything ‘right’ about wrestling.” Rhodes went on to finish the episode of ’10 Pounds’ by making some rather interesting comments about his pending free agent status: “So no matter where I go, whether I stay with Ring of Honor, whether I go back to WWE. Whether I commit to New Japan Pro Wrestling full time. Whether I just become the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion travelling the globe carrying the 10 pounds of gold…I can’t map it out. It’s tough, the only thing I know to do in this case is what I did last and I’ll do this year, go with my gut.”

Check out the episode below:

https://youtu.be/r6sjDX2j2aU

Gedo Turns On Kazuchika Okada at NJPW Destruction in Kobe

Ethan Renner
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0

Gedo turned on longtime charge Kazuchika Okada In the aftermath of New Japan’s Destruction in Kobe show, aligning himself with ‘Switchblade’ Jay White.

The groundwork for this turn was laid last month after the G1 Climax tournament, when Okada announced that Gedo would no longer accompany him to the ring.

At first, many saw this as just the logical evolution of Okada’s character. As it turns out, it would have more to do with the ongoing storyline centered around dissension within the CHAOS faction.

The Turn

Okada battled Hiroshi Tanahashi in the main event at Destruction in Kobe, with the right to face the IWGP Heavyweight Champion at Wrestle Kingdom 13 at stake. After a grueling 35 minute classic, Tanahashi pinned Okada.

Switchblade Jay White ran in and first attacked Tanahashi, but then turned his attention to Okada. White laid into Okada with stomps and strikes, then went to the English announce desk, where he confronted CHAOS stablemate Rocky Romero. After Romero refused to give up his chair, White tossed him aside, and took the chair anyway.

YOSHI-HASHI ran down to make the save for Okada, but White hit him with the chair. Gedo then entered. He took the chair from White, only to hit Okada in the back with it. He proceeded to cut a promo on Okada, calling him a loser. This aligned him with White, and cemented the turn.

Gedo then announced that White will soon face Tanahashi with the title shot up for grabs.

CHAOS In Chaos

The state of the CHAOS stable has been in question for months, perhaps even as far back as January. White joined the stable after the Wrestle Kingdom Tokyo Dome show, but always seemed like an odd fit. CHAOS was by and large a group that played by the rules, while White played more of a heel.

White continued to splinter the group for the next several months. During the G1 Climax events, he would often team with YOH, but would leave his teammate to do most of the heavy lifting in their matches, and encouraged him to break rules.

With Gedo breaking away from Okada, and now championing White, what is the current state of the CHAOS group? Will White and Gedo start their own faction? How will Okada react? Let us know what you think in the comments

NJPW Destruction in Kobe Results (9.23)

Ethan Renner
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0

The third and final NJPW Destruction show of 2018 took place Sunday, September 23 in Kobe, Japan at the Kobe World Hall.

The main event of the show saw Hiroshi Tanahashi defend his Wrestle Kingdom 13 IWGP Championship title shot against Kazuchika Okada. The two wrote another memorable chapter in their epic rivalry, considered by many to be the best of this generation.

The aftermath of the main event may prove to be memorable as well, as Okada’s former manager, Gedo, and CHAOS stablemate Switchblade Jay White turned on Okada after the bout.

Here are the full results from the show:

Yota Tsuji drew with Yuya Uemura – The two Young Lions went to a ten minute time limit draw

Roppongi 3K (SHO & YOH) b. Ren Narita & Shota Umino – YOH won by pinfall on Narita after a Falcon Arrow

Tiger Mask & Jushin Thunder Liger b. Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado – Tiger Mask won by pinfall after a crucifix on Kanemaru

Satoshi Kojima, Yuji Nagata, Manabu Nakanishi & Hiroyoshi Tenzan b. Tomoaki Honma, Togi Makabe, Ryusuke Taguchi & Ayato Yoshida – Nagata pinned Yoshida with a High-Angle Suplex

The Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Beretta) b. Killer Elite Squad (Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Lance Archer – Beretta won by pinfall on Archer with a crucifix

CHAOS (Switchblade Jay White, YOSHI-HASHI & Will Ospreay) b. Taguchi Japan (Juice Robinson, Toa Henare & David Finlay) – Jay White won by pinfall after a Blade Runner on Henare

Los Ingobernables De Japon (Tetsuya Naito, EVIL & SANADA) b. Suzuki-gun (Minoru Suzuki, Zack Sabre Jr. & TAKA Michinoku) – EVIL picked up the pinfall victory after hitting Everything is EVIL on Michinoku

IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Title Tournament Semifinal: KUSHIDA b. BUSHI – KUSHIDA won by pinfall after hitting BUSHI with two Back to the Futures

Hiroshi Tanahashi b. Kazuchika Okada – Hiroshi Tanahashi won by pinfall after hitting a High Fly Flow

Confirmed Names for WoS 2019 Tour

Jake Skudder
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0

The WoS/World of Sport promotion will be heading out on tour in early 2019. The ITV show will be taking the stars of Saturday Nights across the UK starting January 18th.

This is an interesting move for the television brand. Whilst the current ratings for the Saturday Night broadcast are repeatedly below the 1 Million mark ITV appear to be keeping their sports entertainment brand ongoing to test the waters for a touring schedule.

With dates across Southern England, Wales and Scotland the company appears to be hitting as much of Mainland UK as they can. Several names have now been announced for the tour including the following:

  • Will Ospreay
  • WoS Women’s Champion Kay Lee Ray
  • WoS Champion Rampage
  • Robbie X
  • Crater
  • Nathan Cruz
  • Joe Hendry
  • Justin Sysum
  • Adam ‘Flex’ Maxted
  • Grado
  • Viper
  • Sha Samuels

Touring Schedule

Here’s the full schedule:

  • Friday, January 18 – Southampton O2 Guildhall
  • Saturday, January 19 – Newport Centre
  • Sunday, January 20 – Bournemouth International Centre
  • Friday, January 25 – Stoke Victoria Hall
  • Saturday, January 26 – Blackpool Tower Ballroom
  • Sunday, January 27 – Aberdeen AECC
  • Friday, February 01 – Scarborough Spa Grand Hall
  • Saturday, February 02 – Northampton Derngate
  • Sunday, February 03 – London York Hall

Weekly Ratings

You can check out our Ratings reports for WoS via the following links:

https://twitter.com/WillOspreay/status/1043545900390334465

The Bella Twins Comment on Evolution of Women’s Division

Jake Skudder
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1

Nikki and Brie Bella have made their opinions clear on the evolution of the Women’s division. The WWE Superstar’s official Twitter account sent out a tweet over the weekend. “ev·o·lu·tion The gradual development of something, especially from a simple to a more complex form. Development, advancement, growth, rise, progress, expansion, unfolding, transformation, adaptation, modification, revision. Women honoring empowering & uniting other women at WWE.”

Smackdown General Manager Paige and Carmella commented on an article online earlier this week on the original ‘Divas’ division. The article (entitled How the Divas are damaging the Evolution) was heavily criticised by both Superstars. Paige commented that the Bella Twins were “the OG ladies to help kickstart the #givedivasachance trend” and that “They deserve to be apart of everything and more.” Nikki and Brie’s comments on the tweet appear to be a direct reaction to the article in question.

Brie and Nikki will be teaming with Ronda Rousey in October. The Twins will face the Riott Squad at WWE Super Show-down on October 6th in Australia alongside the RAW Women’s Champion. Brie Bella is also scheduled to face Ruby Riott on this week’s RAW show.

Nikki also recently reacted to the Bella Twin’s return to WWE, mentioning that “I can’t believe I’m going to be tagging with Ronda Rousey. I feel very blessed right now with my life.”

H/T 411 Mania for the transcription

Kurt Angle Says Lesnar’s Shooting Star Press At WM 19 Was His Idea

Jon Fuentes
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4

Back in 2003 Brock Lesnar had one of the most memorable botches in professional wrestling history. It all happened in the midst of “The Beast’s” WWE Title match with Kurt Angle at WrestleMania 19. The finish of the match was initially set to be Lesnar hitting a Shooting Star Press on Angle for the win.

Instead, when Lesnar came off the top rope, he missed Angle’s body and landed right on his own head. Eventually, Lesnar went on to win the match and the WWE Championship. Today, Angle is a WWE Hall Of Famer while Lesnar is one of the biggest draws in combat sports.

The former Olympic Gold Medalist took to his Facebook profile and held a Q&A with fans. One of the questions was if he and Lesnar exchanged words after the both at WrestleMania 19. In his answer, Angle revealed the spot was actually his idea:

“Well, it was my idea to do the shooting star…Brock misjudged the flip and landed on his head. It was a scary moment.

“But nothing was said between us about it. The match spoke for itself regardless of the failed flip. If anything, it became one of the most popular Wrestlemania moments.”

What do you think of Angle coming up with Lesnar’s Shooting Star Press spot?

Jay Lethal Discusses Pressure Of Being Face Of ROH

Jon Fuentes
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1

Ring Of Honor (ROH) World Champion Jay Lethal was interviewed by Newseek to discuss his career with the promotion. Lethal initially worked for ROH from 2003 to 2006. After a run with TNA, he returned to ROH in 2011 and remains there today. Lethal is a two-time ROH World Champion and is in the middle of his second reign.

As the ROH World Champion, Lethal essentially serves as the face of the company. The 33-year-old confirms there’s “one-hundred percent added pressure” with the ROH Title:

“One-hundred percent added pressure. Not only from all the new eyes of people who have never heard of Ring of Honor, but now you are working and you have to hook and wow them so they can want to keep watching.

“Especially since we sold out MSG, people are talking like, ‘Hey, what is this all about? Let’s check this place out.’ But more than that, you have a roster of the best wrestlers in the world and the world champion has to follow all of that. The pressure is unreal, but I welcome it.

“It makes me feel alive. It’s something that makes me feel like I can keep pushing myself to stay at that top level. To keep pushing to be the best or one of the best. It’s that ultimate motivation and I love it.”

Having been in the professional wrestling industry for nearly 20 years, Lethal has accomplished so much. He has won several titles for promotions such as IMPACT Wrestling and ROH. When asked if he thinks he’s at the peak of his career, Lethal offered a very interesting answer:

“I thought I was at my peak when I first had my first world championship run. And I thought I was at my peak when I was in the ring with Shinsuke Nakamura, I said to myself, ‘Man, I must be doing something right that they gave me a dream match.’

“And I thought I was at my peak when I wrestled Roderick Strong and we had a match that went for one hour and went to a time-limit draw – and I think I’m at my peak now. So what I’m trying to say is that I have no idea [Laughs]. Part of me hopes that I am and the other part of me hopes that I’m not there yet.”

Mustafa Ali On Getting Turned Down By WWE In 2013

Jon Fuentes
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0

WWE 205 Live star Mustafa Ali was recently interviewed by The Express Tribune and talked about his journey to the WWE. Ali has been wrestling since 2003. He worked the independent circuit for over a decade before landing a deal with WWE.

Ali did, however, have a tryout with WWE in 2013. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out and he was turned down by the professional wrestling juggernaut:

“I don’t think people really realize how insane it is that I’m in the position I am in today. Prior to the Cruiserweight Classic, I had a tryout with WWE in 2013 and was told that I wasn’t what they were looking for at the moment.”

Three years later, Ali got his WWE opportunity when he replaced Zumbi in the Cruiserweight Classic. Despite being eliminated in the first round of the tournament, Ali eventually found himself on 205 Live:

“Almost everyone else on the roster was well traveled and better known, competing in some of the biggest independent companies all over the world. I didn’t have that, I didn’t have a Ring of Honor run, I didn’t compete at [PWG Battle of Los Angeles].

“I was a guy that stayed close to my local independent scene in Chicago because I simply had to. My family depended on my income, so my ‘real job’ [as a policeman] took priority.

“So I had to work really hard just within the show to prove that I was worth everyone’s time and that I could compete with these international stars. Now, you can’t talk about 205 Live without mentioning my name.”

Goldust Claims He’ll Be At All In 2

Jon Fuentes
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5

Earlier this month (Sat. September 1, 2018) Cody and The Young Bucks did something amazing. They self-funded their very own “All In” professional wrestling pay-per-view (PPV) in Chicago, Illinois. Cody and The Bucks sold out the Sears Centre and put on one of the best professional wrestling shows of the year.

Many professional wrestling legends and veterans were in attendance for the event. One man who sadly wasn’t able to attend, however, is Cody’s brother and WWE Superstar Goldust. The longtime WWE veteran was interviewed on the Sports Guys Talking Wrestling podcast.

Goldust talked about not being able to attend his brother’s “awesome” event:

“Man, what an awesome night that was. I mean it was incredible. Me and Cody talked a couple of weeks before it and he wanted me to be there so, so bad and I wanted to be there more than anything. I was told by my office that I couldn’t go. It sucks. I wanted to be there more than anything.

“But to actually be on patrol in Williamson County (TX) and watching FITE TV on my phone and then on my iPad, and seeing the reactions and talking back and forth, because we had kind of a lackadaisical night [on patrol].

“To watch the build up and the matches and to finally get to that match and see my family there, my sisters, my mom. For him to win and to see the emotion on his face, it was real.”

He then discussed Cody winning the NWA World Title from Nick Aldis at the event. Goldust said the moment reminded him of when he and Cody won the Tag Team Titles together. He said you “can bet your ass” he’ll be at All In 2:

“It reminded me of when Cody and I won the tag team titles because it was a real thing. The storyline was so real with dad and the family against The Shield.

“It had all the elements you needed to draw a billion dollar house and he laid it out there and he hit a home run with it. I can not wait until “All In 2.” You can bet your ass I will be at that one.”

Do you think there will be an All In 2 next year?

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

Britt Baker Injured At NXT Tapings

Chris Stephens
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Britt Baker is both a licensed dentist and a professional wrestler. She also suffered a shoulder injury at the recent NXT tapings from Full Sail University. The woman who could remove your wisdom teeth Tweeted out the following:

Baker was working a match with Shayna Baszler when the bout ended due to referee stoppage. She also worked a dark match for WWE during the August 8th taping of the Mae Young Classic, defeating Tesha Price.

Dr. Britt Baker DMD

Baker was one of the four wrestlers in the well-reviewed fatal 4-way match at All In. Tessa Blanchard came away with a victory from the match which also featured Madison Rayne and Chelsea Green.

The University of Pittsburgh wrote a feature on Baker last year. They likely haven’t had too many other pro-wrestlers graduate their dental program.

“I know a lot of people think wrestling is scripted, but now that I’ve learned more, I think of it more like improv,” Baker said in an article for the school website. “You never really know what’s going to happen.”

She also praised her fellow students and professors for helping her balance wrestling and studies.

“Dental school is competitive,” she said. “No one has to help each other, but the fact that they did, just knowing I was in a jam? We have really great people here.”

Rey Mysterio’s Son Training With Lance Storm

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Lance Storm’s wrestling school has produced several successful wrestlers in recent years. Tenille Dashwood, Tyler Breeze, Chelsea Green, Taya Valkyrie, and Peyton Royce just to name a few.

Rey Mysterio is hoping his son Dominic is the next Storm Wrestling Academy graduate to be successful in the business. Dominic Gutierrez has begun training with Storm in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Mysterio took to Instagram to share photos of Dominic and Storm.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn70gCIAoAc/?taken-by=619iamlucha

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn6kng8g5EA/?taken-by=619iamlucha

Storm isn’t the only person to train Dominic, however. Earlier this year, Jay Lethal also worked with Mysterio’s son.

“He’s up training with Jay Lethal right now,” Mysterio said on the E&C podcast earlier this year. “I’m going to have him train as much as he can in different countries. Right now he’s training with Jay. I want to get him out with Lance in Calgary [Canada]. Is he in Calgary? Yeah, uh huh. And eventually, if I can get him to Japan and to Europe. And the final touch would be the Mexican side. That’s when I get ahold of him and we do one-on-ones, so eventually, when it’s time to tap out and hang up the mask, I would love to leave him set, so he can take over the name and the brand and take it to the next level.”

Rey Mysterio WWE Update

It was reported earlier this week that Rey Mysterio and WWE have reached terms on a deal. Mysterio is believed to have signed a 2-year contract with the promotion. As of this writing, it’s not clear when he will begin on WWE programming.

Joey Janela Suffers Knee Injury at GCW On Friday Night

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3 weeks removed from his breakout performance at All In, Joey Janela has gone down with a knee injury. The rather unique indy wrestler is the man behind “Joey Janela’s Spring Break” and “Joey Janela’s Lost In New York.”

“Not looking good,” Janela Tweeted. “Sorry to all the fans tonight in Asbury Park. Just got to the emergency room, let’s hope for the best… if not then I’ll come back better than ever!”

Joey Janela Injury

Several wrestlers offered up messages of support for Janela after his injury.

“Steve Austin had two knee braces and he was the fucking best. No doubt you’ll come back strong,” Tweeted Joey Ryan.

“Hope it’s not as bad as it looks, man. Oof,” offered former Impact tag-team champion, Andrew Everett.

“Damn,” current X-Division Champion, Brian Cage, Tweeted. “Mcl? Looks bad. Hopefully not as bad.”

Meanwhile, Trent Berretta simply offered up “XOXO” to Janela.

Joey Janela in 2018

It’s been a big year for Janela, as it has been for many independent wrestling stars. Janela is the current WWN Live Champion for EVOLVE. He most recently successfully defended the title against AR Fox at EVOLVE 112.

He was defeated by Hangman Page in a Chicago Street Fight at All In.

Becky Lynch Explains Her Character’s Motivation

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Newly crowned Smackdown Women’s Champion, Becky Lynch, recently spoke to the media about her current character’s motivation. Lynch has played a key role on Smackdown as of late. Her rivalry with Charlotte Flair is one of the most talked about angles happening in wrestling at the moment.

Lynch says she’s loving her current role on WWE programming. Whether she is a heel or a face doesn’t matter to her either.

Becky Lynch On Her Character’s Motivation

“Whatever this is, I love it,” Lynch said to USA Today recently. Lynch would continue to say her character feels she tried to do things the right way but it didn’t work out how she wanted.

“For the most part, people are generally good and want to do the right thing. And sometimes, it just backfires on you,” she continued. “My dad used to always tell me no good deed goes unpunished. And I think that’s what you’re seeing with Becky right now, that she’s always done the right thing and it hasn’t gotten her where she wants it. And now she’s had enough and she’s saying ‘I don’t care who’s in my way.’”

Lynch defeated Charlotte Flair at Hell in a Cell on Sunday to become the new Smackdown Women’s Champion. It’s the first time Lynch has held the title since winning the inaugural belt at Backlash 2016.

“I left home at 16, traveled the world and slept on people’s couches,” Lynch said about her career. “I came with a goal and I haven’t gotten that because I have been too focused on doing the right thing always when other people aren’t. That’s what we’re seeing and she’s had enough … she’s not letting them be an obstacle anymore.”

Moose vs Eddie Edwards Announced For Bound For Glory

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Impact Wrestling has announced Moose and Eddie Edwards will go one-on-one at Bound For Glory. The event takes place October 14th from the Melrose Ballroom in New York City. The grudge match is the 4th to be officially confirmed for the event.

Moose vs Eddie Edwards

Moose unsuccessfully challenged for the Impact World Championship at Slammiversary against Austin Aries. He’d sit out several weeks after with a concussion. In storyline, Moose says the only person to call him while he was out injured was Aries. Edwards, it seems, was too busy feuding with Tommy Dreamer at the time.

When Moose returned to Impact at the Toronto tapings, he aligned with both Aries and Killer Kross, turning his back on his former friend, Eddie Edwards, in the process. The trio has attempted to injure Edwards, Johnny Impact, KM and Fallah Bah. Now, Edwards will get a chance for revenge when he and Moose go one-on-one at Impact Wrestling’s next pay-per-view event.

Bound For Glory 2018

Bound For Glory Lineup:

  • Impact World Championship
    Austin Aries (c) vs Johnny Impact
  • Sami Callihan & oVe (Dave & Jake Crist) vs Brian Cage & the Lucha Brothers (Pentagon Jr, and Fenix)
  • Concrete Jungle Death Match
    Konnan & LAX (Santana & Ortiz) vs King & the OGZ (Homicide & Hernandez)
  • Eddie Edwards vs Moose

Paige Comments On Sasha Banks’ Role In Her Career Ending Injury

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Paige recently opened up to the media about what role Sasha Banks played in the final injury she would endure in a WWE ring.

She isn’t blaming Banks for the injury in the least. Paige says she is the one who called for the move and was confident her neck was strong enough to take it.

“Nothing was ever Sasha’s fault,” Paige said to Give Me Sport recently. “She got so much backlash and even in the ring, when we were in there, people are chanting ‘Sasha sucks’ and it really upset me to hear that because it wasn’t her fault.”

Paige on Injury and Sasha Banks

She would continue to say the move she took from Banks is one she’s taken numerous times before.

“That move where she kicks me in the back, I had taken that so many times previously that I was so stubborn and I thought ‘I can still do these kinds of things.'” Paige continued. “I thought my neck was just as strong as it was before, but, unfortunately, it’s not.”

Paige then said after taking the kick to the back she lost feeling in her limbs. While the feeling would return, she was certain her career was over at that point.

Paige says Banks and her have a good relationship and speak often.

“But, I remember just telling Sasha ‘I can’t wrestle anymore’ and she was devastated, she started crying, crying her eyes out. I was like ‘I’m so sorry’, I think it’s just a British thing to apologize! But I was like ‘I’m sorry, it’s not your fault’ and she’s just been so, so supportive. She always texts me like ‘hey, how are you doing, how things going?’ you know, and she’s just always been really great.”

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