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Nia Jax Claims She Wasn’t Expecting To Win RAW Women’s Title At WrestleMania 34

Andrew Ravens
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Nia Jax reflected on her biggest moment thus far in her career with the WWE.

During a recent interview with KUSI Newsto to promote this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, Jax talked about various topics including her match at WrestleMania 34.

If you recall, she beat Alexa Bliss to win the RAW Women’s Title at the show that took place in April. She gave The Rock credit for getting her into the pro wrestling business after watching him wrestle John Cena at WrestleMania 28 in Miami, Florida a few years ago.

She spoke about her WrestleMania match against Bliss where she noted that she was not expecting to win the title that night.

“To be able to go to WrestleMania in New Orleans, and the crowd is so hot and it’s so much fun” said Jax. “I didn’t expect to win that night, and when I was told that I was winning, and I [hit] the Samoan Drop off the second [rope], emotions just came over me and I just balled my eyes out and looked like a hot mess.”

She also credits The Rock’s mom as she noted that she was the person who inspired her to start working for the sports entertainment company.

“She was the one who actually told me that the company needs somebody like me to be here to show young boys and girls that no matter what size, shape, race, color, you should be following your dreams,” Jax said.

Jax will have her rematch against Bliss at the upcoming Extreme Rules event for the RAW Women’s Title.

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcribed quotes.

What are your thoughts on Jax’s comments? Sound off in the comment section.

Referee Tells Bobby Lashley To Flip His Headband Over During WWE RAW Match (Video)

Andrew Ravens
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There was an interesting spot on WWE Monday Night RAW involving Bobby Lashley.

As seen on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, RAW General Manager Kurt Angle revealed that the upcoming multi-man match at Extreme Rules had been nixed.

It was then announced that Lashley will take on Roman Reigns in a singles match at Extreme Rules.

This led to a tag team match being booked for the next segment that saw The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) beat Reigns and Lashley.

During the match, Lashley was waiting to get tagged in and the Nike logo was clearly visible on his headband. This led to the referee going over to Lashley and tells him to flip it over.

What are your thoughts on WWE’s handling of this situation? Sound off in the comment section.

“Filthy” Tom Lawler Added To MLW’s Battle Riot

Chris Stephens
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Major League Wrestling’s upcoming “Battle Riot” has gained another confirmed participant. The show will take place on July 19th from the Melrose Ballroom in Queens, NY.

As of this writing, the event is scheduled to be a television taping for the promotion’s Fusion show which airs Friday nights on BeIN Sports. A report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter last week stated they were looking at possibly broadcasting the event on traditional pay-per-view, however.

MLW announced recently that the 18th participant in the Battle Riot match will be “Filthy” Tom Lawler.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1011561467160784896

On the most recent episode of Fusion, Lawler, and stablemate, Simon Gotch, played a prank on manager Col. Rob Parker. Although not shown on camera, it is believed Lawler left a deposit of sorts in Parker’s hat.

Battle Riot Confirmed Participants

  • Tom Lawler
  • Pentagon Jr.
  • Pierre Carl Ouellet
  • Rich Swann
  • Jason Cade
  • Joey Ryan
  • “Taskmaster” Kevin Sullivan
  • ACH
  • John Morrison
  • Lance Anoa’i
  • Swoggle
  • Konnan
  • Jake Hager
  • “Worldwide Desperado” Sami Callihan
  • Davey Boy Smith Jr.
  • Teddy Hart
  • Barrington Hughes
  • Jimmy Yuta

Konnan will be coming out of retirement for the match.

“A mash-up of a battle royal, royal rumble and anything goes street fight, this super-sized main event will feature 40 wrestlers with new participants entering the ring every 60 seconds.

Elimination is by pinfall, submission or by throwing an individual over the top rope.”

“Filthy” Tom Lawler

Lawler is currently signed to UFC but is suspended for a USADA doping violation. He’s wrestled 6 matches for Major League Wrestling and another two which have yet to air on the promotion’s television show, Fusion.

In MLW singles matches, Lawler has a 4-1 record with his only loss being to the King of Bros, Matt Riddle. He’s defeated Jeff Cobb, MVP, ACH, and Fred Yehi.

Dr. Shelby Comments On Bayley and Sasha Banks Being Sent To Counselling

Chris Stephens
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The doctor responsible for counseling the members of “Team Hell No”, Dr. Shelby, has volunteered his services to Bayley and Sasha Banks.

Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle, made the decision last night that both Bayley and Sasha Banks would attend mandatory counseling sessions beginning next week. They were told if they don’t attend the counseling sessions, they’ll both be fired.

The storyline is reminiscent of when Kane and Daniel Bryan were sent to anger management classes in 2012 with Dr. Shelby.

Dr. Shelby commented on the situation last night:

Who is Dr. Shelby?

The character of Dr. Shelby was played by actor, Michael Aspinwall. He currently has roles in the television shows “Stupid Cupid” and “My Future Self”.  The Dr. Shelby Twitter account, which is run by Aspinwall (as revealed in an AMA session), Tweets infrequently about WWE. After not Tweeting for several months, Dr. Shelby popped back up in May when Daniel Bryan was feuding with Big Cass.

Shelby also posted a video to Daniel Bryan after he was forced to retire in 2016.

Surprisingly, Dr. Shelby did not throw his support towards Kane’s Mayoral run earlier this year and did not Tweet out any messages of support. It’s possible Dr. Shelby does not feel Kane has advanced enough in his anger management.

Do you want to see Dr. Shelby return to WWE to counsel Sasha Banks and Bayley? Let us know in the comments below. 

Seth Rollins Comments On Failing To Regain Intercontinental Championship

Chris Stephens
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Last night on Raw, Seth Rollins appeared to be poised to win back the Intercontinental Championship. Instead, Drew McIntyre interfered and caused a disqualification. Rollins would be saved from an aftermatch beatdown by Roman Reigns, however.

At the end of the show, it was Rollins and Reigns standing in the ring together but Ziggler is still the Intercontinental Champion. WWE correspondents caught up with Rollins after the show.

“I put in a lot of work this week and I was ready for everything,” Rollins said.”I had it all planned out in my head, I had Dolph covered for the 1-2-3 and the plan came unraveled just like that.”

“Drew McIntyre is not just a problem,” Rollins continued. “He is the problem.”

Seth Rollins’ Intercontinental Championship Reign

Rolins’ reign with the Intercontinental Championship lasted from April 8th, 2018 (WrestleMania 34) to the June 18th, 2018 edition of Raw. During that time, Rollins defended the title 7 times on WWE programming. He defeated Balor, Joe and the Miz at the Greatest Royal Rumble in a ladder match. Rollins also defeated Finn Balor, the Miz, Mojo Rawley, Kevin Owens, and Elias on Raw. He held onto the title via a DQ loss to Jinder Mahal on the May 28th, 2018 Raw as well.

In addition to his televised title defenses, Rollins also defended the belt on several live event shows. He usually defeated either Elias or Jinder Mahal on these tours.

The Shield Reunion?

With Roman and Rollins looking like they will be teaming up against McIntyre and Ziggler, it’s possible WWE will return to the Shield reunion angle when Dean Ambrose is medically cleared.

“Ambrose is the man,” Rollins said shortly after it was revealed Ambrose would miss WrestleMania 34. “He’ll be back. It’s not about Wrestlemania this year, it’s about Wrestlemania next year and the year after that. It’s about the long term.”

Hideo Itami To Wrestle Naomichi Marufuji For Pro Wrestling NOAH

Chris Stephens
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The wrestler formerly known as KENTA will be returning to Pro Wrestling NOAH later this summer. He will wrestle Noamichi Marufuji on September 1st, 2018.

It had previously been reported that WWE and Pro Wrestling NOAH had reached an agreement. Pro Wrestling NOAH announced the Itami vs Marufuji match at today’s show in Korakuen Hall.

Itami wrestled with Pro Wrestling NOAH for 13 years. He won the company’s junior heavyweight title 3x and their heavyweight title once.

It is not currently known if WWE and Pro Wrestling NOAH will continue a talent-sharing relationship past this match, however.

Hideo Itami in WWE

Itami has struggled to find his place in WWE. Expectations were high when he signed with the company in 2014 but injuries set him back and prevented him from moving up the card.

Now on 205 Live, Itami seems to have taken over the top heel spot. He most recently defeated Buddy Murphy and Mustafa Ali in a triple threat match. Itami will likely be the next to challenge for Cedric Alexander’s Cruiserweight Championship as a result.

Rumors of Itami Going Back To Japan in 2017

Last summer there were rumors that Itami was going to go back to Japan full-time. The rumors started after Itami lost an NXT Championship match at Takeover: Chicago (the first one). Rumors were then that Itami had discussed giving up on WWE and going back to Japan. He then dispelled those rumors in the segment below which aired on NXT programming last summer.

8 Takeaways From WWE RAW (6/25)

Robert Lentini
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The June 25th, 2018 episode of WWE aired live from the Valley View Casino Center in San Diego, CA. Here are 8 takeaways from this week’s show:

The Multi-Man Match At Extreme Rules Is “Off The Table” 

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RAW GM Kurt Angle and Constable Corbin kicked off this week’s show in the middle of the ring. Corbin demanded to be announced as “Stephanie McMahon’s personally appointed Constable of RAW”. Angle brought up Paul Heyman starting rumors on social media about Lesnar’s standing in WWE but was quickly interrupted by Roman Reigns.

https://www.facebook.com/TheHeymanHustle/photos/a.69503904887.74090.69415994887/10155887992744888/?type=3&theater

Reigns came down to the ring and said that he was just interested in what Kurt Angle had to say. Bobby Lashley interrupted and came down to the ring as well. Lashley said that he deserved to hear what Angle had to say just as much as Reigns. Lashley added that Roman has had three years to beat Brock and he has proven that he cannot. Lashley stated that it is time for Roman Reigns to just move on and the crowd chanted “yes!”.

Roman brought up Lashley being in the main event of WrestleMania ten years ago and then quitting WWE. Reigns called Lashley “Bob” and pointed out that Lashley hasn’t done anything in WWE lately. Roman boasted about being in the main event fo WrestleMania four years in a row.

Lashley said that he is the only one that has legit tools to beat Brock Lesnar. RAW GM Kurt Angle interrupted and said that there was a snag in the contract discussions and that there will not be a multi-man match at Extreme Rules.

Lashley pointed out that Brock Lesnar is tired of seeing Roman’s face just like all these people are. He added that Brock would come back if he had a real challenge. Roman challenged Lashley to a match at Extreme Rules and Angle said that he would take it under advisement. The Revival came down to the entrance ramp and challenged Reigns & Lashley to another match. Constable Corbin grabbed the microphone and made the match official.

The Revival Defeated Reigns & Lashley

The Revival RAW 6 25

For the second week in a row, The Revival faced Lashley & Reigns in a tag match. Lashley and Reigns started off the match in control and Clotheslined Dash and Dawson out of the ring. Roman and Lashley argued over who gets to start off the match.

Reigns and Dawson started the match and Roman headbutted Dawson. Lashley tagged in and continued to argue with Roman. Wilder knocked Roman out of the ring and Dawson bounced Lashley’s face into the turnbuckle.

Dawson decked Lashley with a Clothesline and Wilder tagged in. Wilder beatdown Lashley for a minute and then Dawson got back in the match. Dawson got Lashley in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Lashley quickly got back up but Wilder tagged in and sent him back to the canvas. Lashley once again battled back and planted Wilder face-first to the mat.

Roman tagged in and leveled Dawson with a Clothesline. Reigns booted Dawson in the face and then knocked Wilder off the ring apron. Reigns connected with a Drive-By on Dash and Dawson as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, The Revival was in control and Reigns was trapped in the ring. Dawson taunted Lashley and then stomped on Roman’s hand. Wilder tagged in and continued to beatdown Roman Reigns in the corner of the ring.

Reigns finally battled back and planted Dawson with a Samoan Drop. Lashley and Wilder tagged in at the same time. Lashley came into the ring fired up and planted Dawson and Wilder with Belly to Belly Suplexes. Lashley lifted up Wilder and planted him with a Suplex.

Lashley geared up in the corner of the ring but Reigns tagged himself in. Roman connected with a Superman Punch and then geared up in the corner. Lashley tried to tag himself in but Reigns saw it coming and started arguing with him. Roman threw Dawson into Lashley on the apron and then delivered a Spear to Dawson.

Wilder snuck up behind Roman and rolled up Reigns for the pinfall victory. After the match, Lashley told Reigns that he should of let him finish the match and left the ring.

The B-Team Can’t Lose

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Matt Hardy faced Curtis Axel tonight on RAW. Bo Dallas and Bray Wyatt were ringside for the match. Before the match, Axel and Bo Dallas once imitated the RAW Tag Team Champions in a pre-taped promo.

Hardy started off the match in control and sent Axel to the corner. Matt perched Axel up on the top rope and hit him with a few punches. Hardy went for a Superplex but Matt slipped and Axel landed on him with a Crossbody for the pinfall victory. Axel and Dallas then celebrated before getting back into the ring.

Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt gave them a standing ovation before the B-Team continued their celebration on the entrance ramp. Wyatt & Hardy will defend their RAW Tag Team Championships against The B-Team at Extreme Rules.

The Authors Of Pain Returned

AOP RAW 6 25

The Authors of Pain were shown walking backstage. They shoved a member of the backstage crew and continued making their way towards the ring. Titus O’Neil, Apollo Crews, and Dana Brooke showed up and told them to stop.

Titus said that the backstage crew works very hard to put on the best RAW possible and to show them some respect. AOP said “thanks for the advice but no thanks” and then walked away.

AOP battled “Rich & Rex Gibson” tonight on RAW. Akam and Rezar won the match with ease after hitting the Last Chapter. AOP continued to beat down the jobbers after the match until Titus and Apollo came down to the ring. Akam and Rezar retreated and left the ring.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011412927302291462

Natalya Tapped Out Alexa Bliss

Natalya Nia Jax RAW 6 25

RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss was accompanied to the ring by Mickie James. Mickie asked the crowd to give it up for the one and only goddess of WWE and the three-time RAW Women’s Champion, Alexa Bliss.

Bliss thanked Mickie and called her such a good friend. Mickie called Ronda Rousey an angry maniac. Bliss pointed out that her anger is why she is suspended from RAW for 30 days.

Alexa called Rousey an entitled brat and claimed that Ronda still doesn’t know the rules in WWE. Mickie James said that Alexa’s cash-in will go down as one of the greatest MITB cash-ins of all times. Bliss complained about having to defend her title against Nia Jax at Extreme Rules before poking fun at her for still being in physical rehab following her match with Rousey at WWE Money in the Bank.

Bliss referred to herself as a hero and the crowd booed. Alexa scolded the crowd and bragged about defeating 7 other women in the Ladder Match and then cashing in on the same night. The crowd started to chant “you suck!” and Bliss called them rude.

Natalya interrupted and told Alexa that the countdown is on. Natalya stated that Bliss has 23 days before Ronda Rousey comes back to deal with her. Bliss faked being afraid and said that she was so impressed that Natalya can count backward from 30. Bliss poked fun at Natalya for posting every moment on social media. Natalya said that she talked to RAW GM Kurt Angle and that they have a match tonight. Nia Jax then joined Natalya and they made their way to the ring.

When RAW returned from a break, Alexa Bliss was in control of the match. Natalya battled back and planted Bliss with a Body Slam. Bliss ducked under a Clothesline and connected with a standing Moonsault for a two count.

Alexa stomped on Natalya’s back and then bounced her head off the canvas a few times for another near fall. Natalya connected with a snap Suplex and then was distracted by Mickie James. Bliss tried to capitalize with a roll-up but Natalya kicked out. Nia Jax tripped up Bliss while the referee was distracted and then Natalya applied the Sharpshooter for the submission victory.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011419420059717633

Bayley Finally Attacked Sasha Banks

Bayley 6 25

RAW GM Kurt Angle told Bayley backstage that her and Sasha Banks were too valuable to RAW and that they needed to get on the same page. He then put them in a 6-woman tag match alongside Ember Moon against the Riott Squad. Sasha Banks and Bayley didn’t want anything to do with the match but Kurt Angle insisted on making it happen for some reason.

Later on RAW, Jinder Mahal and Sunil Singh were shown having their photo taken backstage. The Riott Squad interrupted and Ruby asked for the camera. She took a few pictures before slamming the camera into the ground. The now peaceful and tranquil Jinder Mahal smiled and the Riott Squad angrily marched to the ring.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011420273185345538

Ruby Riott, Sarah Logan & Liv Morgan then battled Sasha Banks, Bayley & Ember Moon. Bayley and Sasha Banks turned their back on each other before the match as they waited for Ember Moon to join them. Moon tried to get them on the same page as Bayley and Banks sulked their way into the ring.

Bayley, Moon, and Banks took turns beating down Sarah Logan to start off the match. Liv Morgan tagged in and was knocked face-first to the mat by Moon. Morgan rolled out of the ring and Bayley and Banks took out Logan and Riott in the ring. Moon then hit a Suicide Dive onto Riott and Morgan as RAW went to a break.

When Raw returned, Riott was in control and had Ember Moon trapped in the corner of the ring. Ruby shoved Bayly off the apron and then taunted Sasha Banks. Sasha got into the ring and that allowed Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan to attack Moon while the referee was distracted.

Moon was able to tag in Sasha Banks and she hit Riott with Double Knees in the corner. Logan hopped up on the ring apron and distracted Banks. Riott planted Sasha and went for the cover but Bayley broke it up. Liv Morgan planted Ember with a Hurricanrana outside the ring. Back in the ring, Ruby rolled up Banks for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Bayley attacked Sasha Banks and the crowd chanted “yes!”. Bayley then stomped on Banks in the corner and continued to attack her. Bayley then launched Sasha’s face into the second turnbuckle and then got out of the ring.

Bayley then ripped Banks off the apron and threw her to the floor as the crowd chanted “we want tables”. Bayley launched Banks into the steel steps a couple of times and then stood over while shouting “that’s for everything you’ve done to me!”.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011425810862002177

RAW GM Kurt Angle and Bayley had a conversation backstage following the attack. Angle said that Bayley must not care about the women’s revolution and that she had to go to counseling next or that she would be fired.

Opinion: It took far too long for this to happen but at least it finally did. I have no idea why Kurt Angle is all of the sudden so invested in Bayley and Sasha Banks remaining friends that he is forcing Bayley to go to counseling.

Braun Strowman Flipped Over Kevin Owens’ Car

owens car 6 25

Braun Strowman suggested to RAW GM Kurt Angle that he team up with Kevin Owens tonight to face Finn Balor and Constable Corbin. Owens didn’t want to team with Strowman and confronted Angle backstage about the match. Angle told Owens that the match was still on.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011426495292731392

Corbin and Balor argued about who will start off the match. Corbin and Owens then locked up and Owens applied a Headlock. Corbin broke free and leveled Owens with a shoulder tackle. Balor tagged in and Corbin immediately tagged himself back in. Owens booted Corbin in the ribs and then rolled to the corner and slapped Strowman in the chest.

Braun entered the ring and Balor had a smile on his face on the apron as Strowman walked towards Corbin. Baron threw Corbin to the corner and then flexed in his face. Strowman knocked Corbin to the mat with a punch to the face and then shouted at Owens to get in the ring before tagging him in.

Owens and Balor locked up in the middle of the ring. Owens sent Balor to the corner and stomped him down to the canvas. Owens applied a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring but Balor quickly battled to his feet. Owens sent Finn back to the corner and then knocked Corbin off the apron.

Strowman and Owens started working together as Braun hit Balor with a Splash and Owens hit Corbin with a Cannonball at the same time in opposite corners. RAW went to a commercial break with Owens and Strowman seemingly on the same page.

When RAW returned, Balor had Owens trapped in the corner of the ring. Balor dropped an elbow on Owens and went for the cover but Strowman broke it up. Corbin tagged in and sent Owens to the corner. Owens connected with an elbow to the face and then leaped across the ring to tag in Strowman.

Braun hit Corbin with a Splash in the corner and went for another one but Corbin got his boot up. Corbin tagged Balor in and Strowman knocked them both to the floor outside the ring. Braun got out of the ring and leveled them both with shoulder tackles. Strowman asked Owens to do the same thing and tagged him in.  Owens hit Balor with a shoulder tackle but ran into a Clothesline from Corbin.

Strowman launched Corbin into the barricade and then charged at him again. Corbin got out of the way and Strowman ran into the ring post. Back in the ring, Balor planted Owens with a Slingblade but Baron tagged himself in once again. Balor booted Corbin in the face and then Corbin dragged him out of the ring. Corbin and Balor then battled up the entrance ramp and were counted out.

Owens and Strowman posed in the ring for a moment. Owens extended his hand and Braun stared at him. Strowman started walking towards him and Owens sprinted up the entrance ramp. Owens shouted that they did great and asked Braun what his problem was. Strowman then chased Owens backstage. Owens hid in a locker room and Strowman walked by it while trying to find him.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011434130414989318

After a commercial break, Owens was shown leaving the room with his suitcase. Owens exited the arena and asked the valet for his keys. Braun Strowman then arrived with Owens’ keys and tossed them to him. Strowman then pointed Owens to his car which was flipped over. Braun then chuckled and made his way back inside the arena.

Dolph Ziggler Is Still The Intercontinental Champion

Ziggler McIntyre RAW 6 25

Dolph Ziggler defeated Seth Rollins last week to capture the Intercontinental Championship. Rollins invoked his rematch clause tonight on RAW. Seth started off the match with a Dropkick and Dolph quickly rolled out of the ring to regroup. Dolph returned to the ring but Rollins quickly brought him back to the canvas.

Ziggler battled to his feet and shoved Rollins towards the ropes as Drew McIntyre looked on from ringside. Dolph slammed Seth’s face into the top turnbuckle and then beat him down in the corner. Dolph connected with an elbow for a one count. Dolph applied a Headlock but dragged Seth to the canvas.

Seth escaped and connected with a Dropkick that knocked Ziggler out of the ring. Seth followed him out there and McIntyre got in his face. Dolph tried to use the distraction to his advantage and attack Rollins but Seth was ready. Rollins launched Ziggler into the barricade and then had a staredown with McIntyre as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, the action had returned to the ring and Ziggler was targeting Seth Rollins’ knee. Ziggler went back to the Headlock in the middle of the ring as the crowd got behind Rollins. Seth battled to his feet and connected with some jabs to Dolph’s midsection to break the hold. Rollins then launched Ziggler into the turnbuckle and Dolph collapsed to the canvas.

Rollins charged at Ziggler in the corner but Dolph connected with a Back Body Drop that sent Rollins crashing to the floor outside the ring. Back in the ring, Ziggler went for a cover but Seth kicked out at two. Dolph locked in the Sleeper Hold but Rollins was able to break free. Seth and Dolph then both went for a Crossbody at the same time and both Superstars crashed into each other.

Seth connected with a Slingblade and then Clotheslined Dolph out of the ring. Seth was about to go for a Suicide Dive but McIntylre hit Rollins in the back as he bounced off the ropes. Ziggler then hit Rollins with a Clothesline and the referee threw McIntyre out. McIntyre argued with the referee as Seth had Ziggler in a roll-up. Rollins got pissed off and threw Ziggler out of the ring.

Rollins then hit both McIntyre and Ziggler with a Suicide Dive and threw Dolph back into the ring. Seth climbed to the top rope but Dolph got back up and crotched Seth on the turnbuckle. Ziggler went for the cover but Rollins kicked out at two as RAW went to a commercial break.

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When RAW returned, Seth connected with the Ripcord Knee and went for the cover but Dolph was able to get his foot on the bottom rope to break it up. Ziggler battled back and planted Rollins with an insane DDT on the ring apron. Rollins fell to the floor outside the ring and the referee started his count. Seth somehow was able to get back in the ring at 9 and the match continued.

Ziggler stomped on the mat and went for a Superkick but Rollins caught him and connected with a Buckle Bomb. Seth then connected with a Superkick to Dolph’s face for a two count. Rollins made his way up to the top rope but Ziggler got up and joined him up there. Seth connected with a headbutt that knocked Dolph to the canvas. Rollins connected with a Frog Splash and went for the cover but Dolph kicked out at the last moment.

The crowd chanted “burn it down” as Rollins geared up for the Curb Stomp. Dolph dodged it and tried to roll-up Seth but Rollins kicked out. Dolph launched Rollins into the steel ring post and followed it up with a Zig Zag for another two count.

Ziggler perched Seth up on the top turnbuckle and then joined him up there. Dolph went for a Superplex but Rollins was able to block it. Rollins connected with a Superplex of his own and followed it up with a Falcon Arrow. Seth went for the cover but Drew McIntyre dragged the referee out of the ring and punched him in the face. McIntyre then attacked Rollins and the match ended in a DQ.

Roman Reigns’ music hit and Reigns hit Ziggler with a Spear on the entrance ramp. Roman then hit McIntyre with a Superman Punch. Ziggler and McIntyre then retreated as Reigns and Rollins stood tall in the ring.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1011445503882645504

Opinion: Rollins and Ziggler had a great match to close this week’s RAW. The ending was expected, as this storyline will likely last at least until Extreme Rules. I’m wondering how many feuds Roman Reigns needs to be in on RAW. He’s still pissed off at Brock Lesnar, he’s arguing with Lashley and now he is rescuing Seth Rollins from McIntyre & Ziggler.

What did you think of this week’s episode of RAW? Let us know in the comments below.

Jeff Hardy Using New Finisher (Video), Pete Dunne Reaches Milestone

Andrew Ravens
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Jeff Hardy Changes Finisher

WWE United States Champion Jeff Hardy is now using a new finisher as the younger Hardy brother showed off it off at a recent house show.

WWE held a live event on Sunday night in Fresno, CA at the Save Mart Center that was headlined by Hardy retaining his title against Shinsuke Nakamura, Samoa Joe and Shelton Benjamin in a Fatal 4-Way match.

The end of the match saw Hardy use a modified stunner and a splash as his finisher. It will be interesting to see if he uses this instead of the swanton bombs going forward.

https://twitter.com/briantheguppie/status/1011202390496825344

Pete Dunne Milestone

WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne has hit a new milestone as the current champion. WWE recently noted on Twitter that Dunne’s title reign has surpassed the 400 day mark and the first time in thirty years two WWE Championship holders have had reigns over 400 days.

What are your thoughts on Hardy using the new finisher? Sound off in the comment section.

Authors Of Pain & Alicia Fox Return To WWE TV, SmackDown Live Promo

Andrew Ravens
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Authors Of Pain & Alicia Fox Return To WWE TV

As seen on this week’s episode of WWE Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, Alicia Fox as well as The Authors Of Pain made their return to WWE television.

First, Fox appeared in a backstage segment with Bayley. If you recall, she had been off of WWE TV since January when she took time off due to a tailbone injury.

Switching gears to AOP, they won a squash match over the Gibson Brothers. Prior to the match, they had a run-in with Titus Worldwide. After the match, AOP beat down the jobbers until Titus Worldwide ran out to the ring to make the save.

SmackDown Promo

As noted, SmackDown General Manager Paige announced over the weekend that Jeff Hardy would defend the United States Title against Shinsuke Nakamura in Ontario, CA at the Citizens Business Bank Arena for this week’s episode of SmackDown Live on the USA Network.

As of this writing, the WWE has yet to reveal any other matches for the show. Here is the promo for the show:

What are your thoughts on these stars returning to television? Sound off in the comment section.

Title Match Officially Announced For WWE Extreme Rules

Andrew Ravens
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1

A new title match has been officially announced for Extreme Rules.

The sports entertainment company has revealed that Bray Wyatt and Matt Hardy would defend the RAW Tag Team Titles against Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas at the Extreme Rules PPV.

If you recall, The B-Team earned this title opportunity and the right to call themselves the #1 contenders after winning a Battle Royal on RAW a few weeks ago.

The Extreme Rules pay-per-view event takes place on Sunday, July 15, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the PPG Paints Arena and will air on the WWE Network and some traditional pay-per-view outlets. Both Raw and SmackDown brands will be featured.

The Card

– Singles Match: Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley

– WWE Title Match: AJ Styles © vs. Rusev

– WWE Raw Women’s Title Match: Alexa Bliss © vs. Nia Jax

– WWE Raw Tag Team Title Match: Bray Wyatt & Matt Hardy © vs. Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas

What are your thoughts on this upcoming title match? Sound off in the comment section.

Rey Mysterio Announced As WWE 2K19 Pre-Order Bonus Character

Andrew Ravens
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10

Former WWE Champion Rey Mysterio has been officially announced as the pre-order bonus character for WWE 2K19.

As seen on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, a teaser trailer aired for the upcoming video game and it was revealed that Mysterio would be the bonus character.

Despite his recent appearances for the sports entertainment company this year, (competing in the Royal Rumble Match at the pay-per-view event in January and wrestling in the 50-Man Royal Rumble Match at the Greatest Royal Rumble PPV) Mysterio has yet to agree to terms for a new WWE contract but is expected to sign a new deal that would see him return to the WWE later this year.

Just last week, it was revealed by 2K Games that WWE Champion AJ Styles will be the cover star for the game.

WWE 2K19 will be released on October 9, 2018 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. As of this writing, 2K Games did not reveal a trailer for the game.

What are your thoughts on Mysterio being the pre-order bonus character? Sound off in the comment section.

Big Change To Extreme Rules Raw Main Event

Andrew Ravens
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5

WWE has made a change to a big match at Extreme Rules.

Just last week, RAW General Manager Kurt Angle revealed that there will be a multi-man match to crown the new #1 contender for the Universal Title, which is currently being held by Brock Lesnar, at Extreme Rules. At the time, Roman Reigns and Bobby Lashley were the only ones confirmed for this match at the upcoming event.

As seen on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, Angle revealed that this upcoming multi-man match at Extreme Rules had been nixed due to a snag in the contract for Lesnar’s next title defense.

It was then announced that Lashley will take on Reigns in a singles match at Extreme Rules.

The Extreme Rules pay-per-view event takes place on Sunday, July 15, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the PPG Paints Arena and will air on the WWE Network and some traditional pay-per-view outlets. Both Raw and SmackDown brands will be featured.

The Card

– Singles Match: Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley

– WWE Title Match: AJ Styles © vs. Rusev

– WWE Raw Women’s Title Match: Alexa Bliss © vs. Nia Jax

What are your thoughts on WWE making a change to this match? Sound off in the comment section.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (6/25)

Eric Lynch
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450

The June 25th, 2018 edition of WWE RAW took place at the Valley View Casino Center in San Diego, CA.

– An image shows on the screen in memory of Vader, who recently passed away.

– RAW GM Kurt Angle comes down to the ring to kick off this week’s show. He’s joined by Constable Baron Corbin. Angle begins speaking, but he’s quickly interrupted by Roman Reigns. Reigns steps in the ring and confronts Kurt, but then Bobby Lashley interrupts quickly next. Lashley tells Reigns he had his chance to beat Brock for three years, and failed, and now it’s Lashley’s turn for a chance. Lashley tells Reigns to move on, and Reigns talks about Lashley moving on from WWE and taking his ball and going home. Reigns says Lashley didn’t make much of an impact in the MMA world, while Reigns has been making an impact in WWE. Lashley says he’s the only one here who has the legit tools for beat Brock, and he’ll beat anyone else Kurt puts in front of him, including Reigns. Kurt says Brock Lesnar pulled out of their agreement to determine a #1 contender at Extreme Rules, and Lashley and Reigns aren’t happy. Reigns says Lesnar doesn’t respect anyone in WWE or the fans. Lashley says if Lesnar had someone legit to face he might be around more, instead of having to face Reigns every time. Lashley says Lesnar is tired of seeing Reigns’ face just like all the fans are. Reigns says he and Lashley should fight right now, but Kurt stops them and tells them he’ll consider booking a match between them for Extreme Rules. The Revival interrupts next and they take issue with Reigns and Lashley. Corbin says they should get it on right now, and Angle calls for a ref. We’ve got a tag match up next.

– Bobby Lashley & Roman Reigns vs. The Revival: The Revival trades frequent tags early on and controls the opening moments of this one. Lashley tags in Reigns and Reigns starts cleaning house and turning it around. Reigns hits a series of clotheslines on Dawson in the corner and drops him. Reigns looks for a superman punch but Wilder pulls Dawson outside to safety. Reigns runs around the ring and hits the Drive By on Wilder outside. Back in the ring, Dawson turns it around and starts beating on Reigns on the apron. Back in the ring, Wilder tags in and continues the offense on Reigns. Reigns comes back with a shot in the corner and a Samoan Drop. Lashley gets the hot tag and starts cleaning house with belly to belly suplexes. Lashley hits a stalling vertical suplex on Wilder. Reigns tags himself in and a miscommunication leads to Lashley getting knocked out to ringside and Wilder rolls up Reigns for the three count out of nowhere.

Winners: The Revival

– Lashley gets in Reigns’ face after the match and he isn’t happy about the miscommunication that lead to the finish.

– Matt Hardy appears on the big screen and cuts a promo on The B Team. He says The B Team had a great performance, and then Bray Wyatt walks in. Wyatt talks some trash to the B Team and warms them about coming after their Tag Titles. Matt Hardy says The B Team has no idea what they got themselves into, and they tell them to run. Matt Hardy takes on Curtis Axel in singles action next.

– Next we see a WWE 2k19 commercial featuring several WWE stars including Daniel Bryan, Jeff Hardy, Bobby Roode and others wearing the Rey Mysterio mask. It then shows Rey wearing the mask, and saying that he’s back.

– Wyatt and Hardy are in the ring, and then The B Team appears on the big screen mocking their gimmicks. Michael Cole promotes that Wyatt and Hardy will be defending their Tag Titles against The B Team at Extreme Rules.

– Matt Hardy vs. Curtis Axel: Hardy starts off strong and repeatedly slams Axel into the corner. Axel fights back with a boot to the face and then fights with Matt in the corner. Matt goes for a superplex but appears to slip, and Axel lands on top of him. Axel covers and gets the three count after a very short match. Cole says on commentary that Hardy’s foot slipped off the rope.

Winner: Curtis Axel

– After the match, Matt and Bray seem to congratulate Axel on their win. Axel and Dallas leave the ring as Hardy and Wyatt watch on.

– We see replays of Sasha Banks and Bayley fighting last week.

– Sasha Banks is shown backstage complaining to Kurt Angle about something, but we can’t hear what they’re saying.

– The Authors of Pain are walking backstage and shoving around employees in their way. They run into Titus Worldwide, and Titus asks that they show the backstage employees some respect, but The Authors aren’t interested.

– The Authors of Pain vs. The Gibson Brothers: The Gibson Brothers appear to be local enhancement talent. Rezar starts off with a big boot then slams one of the Gibson brothers down to the ringside floor. He pulls the other brother into the ring then tags in Akam. Akam booths the other Gibson brother outside. Akam slams him into the corner then tags in Rezar. They hit the Last Chaper for the win after a short squash match.

Winners: Authors of Pain

– After the match, The Authors beat down the jobbers after the match until Titus Worldwide comes out for the save. Titus and Apollo hit the ring, and The Authors back off and head up the ramp.

– Kurt Angle and Baron Corbin are backstage, and Baron is saying Kurt is making tag teams implode. They briefly argue before Finn Balor walks in. Balor complains about Lesnar not being active, and Corbin says Balor should stop complaining because he knows he would come up short against Lesnar. Strowman interrupts next and he’s got his briefcase. Strowman wants more opponents and he wants to try being Kevin Owens’ friend. It sounds like we have a tag match for later: Braun Strowman & Kevin Owens vs. Finn Balor & Baron Corbin.

– We see a replay of Ronda Rousey’s rampage beating up Alexa Bliss, Kurt Angle, and referees last week.

– Alexa Bliss and Mickie James come down to the ring together and they’ve got microphones. Mickie introduces Alexa, and says Alexa deserves a Women’s Championship celebration tonight because Ronda Rousey ruined her celebration last week. Alexa talks about Ronda being suspended from RAW, and then she starts trashing Ronda and Nia Jax. Mickie says Alexa’s Money In The Bank cash-in was the best ever. Alexa says she is the real hero, and she has overcome every obstacle in her way. Natalya comes out to interrupt and says there are only 23 days left before Ronda Rousey comes back and deals with Alexa. Alexa trashes Natalya and dismisses her, but Natalya says she’s not done. She says she talked to Kurt Angle tonight, and they’ve got a one-on-one match tonight. Natalya says she didn’t come alone, and she’s joined by Nia Jax. It looks like we’ve got a match up next.

– Natalya vs. Alexa Bliss: Nia Jax and Mickie James are both at ringside for this non-Title match. The opening bell sounds and the fight spills outside early on, where Alexa takes control. Back in the ring, Natalya tries to mount a comeback, but Alexa kicks out her knee and drops her back down to the mat. Natalya finally fires up with some clotheslines and a suplex, and then a Russian leg sweep. Natalya stomps on her and runs the ropes, but Mickie James distracts her, and Alexa drops Natalya from behind. Nia returns the favor and trips Alexa when the ref isn’t looking. Natalya drops Alexa and locks in the Sharpshooter, and Alexa taps out.

Winner: Natalya

– Mickie comforts Alexa at ringside while Natalya and Nia celebrate in the ring.

– Seth Rollins does an interview backstage trashing Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre. He says he’s going to beat Ziggler and burn it down and take back his Title.

– Jinder Mahal and Sunil Sign are shown backstage in the middle of a photo shoot. The Riott Squad walks in and tags the camera and smashes it. Jinder and Sunil stay peaceful as The Riott Squad storms off.

– Sasha Banks, Bayley & Ember Moon vs. The Riott Squad: Sasha and Bayley appear to still not be on speaking terms. Ember moon takes control of the match early on with a facebuster on Liv Morgan, and the babyface team clears the Riott Squad off the apron. Ember follows up with a suicide dive to the outside. Back in the ring, Sasha takes control of the match now and hits a knee strike in the corner. She gets distracted by Liv on the apron, and she misses a shot on Ruby. Ember and Bayley brawl with Liv and Sarah at ringside, while Ruby and Sasha fight in the ring. Sasha and Ruby trade pin attempts, and it ends up with Ruby rolling up Sasha for the three count after a short match.

Winners: The Riott Squad

– After the match, Bayley pounces on aha and pummels on her. Bayley stomps on Sasha in the corner and continues beating on her down. Bayley pulls Sasha out to ringside and slams her on the floor. Bayley throws Sasha into the ring steps and yells in her face while she’s down. Referees come to check on Sasha while she’s down.

– Still to come: Strowman & Owens vs. Corbin & Balor

– Kurt Angle is shown backstage telling a ref to find Bayley. Kevin Owens walks in and complains to Kurt about being teamed up with Strowman. Kurt says Braun genuinely wanted to be Owens’ partner, and this could be the start of a beautiful friendship.

– No Way Jose vs. Mojo Rawley: Before the match, Mojo cuts a brief promo complaining about having to have a rematch with Jose, and about his conga dancers. Mojo interrogates one of the conga dancers at ringside, and then tells Jose he’s not getting his rematch. Jose comes out to ringside and Mojo drops him with a right hand.

Winner: No contest

– Bayley walks in to Kurt Angle’s office, and Angle is mad at her. Kurt Angle tells her she needs to go to counseling next week, or else she’s fired.

– Braun Strowman & Kevin Owens vs. Finn Balor & Baron Corbin: Corbin and Owens start off with a collar and elbow tie up, then Corbin drops him and backs him into the corner. Corbin drops Owens and then Balor tags in, but then Corbin immediately tags himself back in and argues with Balor. Owens fights back and tags in Braun. Braun and Corbin go at it now and Braun lays into him with right hands. He drops Corbin, and then he tags in Owens. Balor also tags in and goes at it with Owens. Owens drops Balor in the corner and stomps a mud hole in him. Strowman and Corbin come in, and Strowman and Owens are able to team up to take down both Corbin and Balor. Strowman and Corbin come back in now and Strowman hits a big splash in the corner. Corbin fires back wih a big boot then tags in Balor. Strowman pulls Balor into the ring from the apron and clubs him down to the mat. Strowman knocks Corbin off the apron as Balor rolls outside. Strowman runs around the ring now and shoulder tackles both Balor and Corbin on the floor. Owens tags in and then runs around the ring, but Corbin clotheslines him down. Strowman heads outside and drops Corbin, but then Strowman misses a shot and hits the ring post. Back in the ring, Balor hits the sling blade on Owens. Corbin tags himself in, but Balor isn’t having it and he kicks his own partner off teh apron. Corbin pulls Balor outside and brawls with Balor on the ramp. Owens is in the ring as the referee’s count reaches 10, and Corbin and BAlor are counted out.

Winners: Kevin Owens & Braun Strowman

– After the match, Owens tries to celebrate with Strowman, but Strowman is hesitant. Strowman stares Owens down and Owens leaves the ring and retreats up the ramp. Owens runs to the back, and Strowman runs to the back after him.

– We go backstage where Owens is shown running through the backstage area. Strowman follows and is furiously looking for Owens. Strowman walks past, and Owens comes out of the closet he was hiding in. Owens gets his bag and starts to leave the building. Owens goes to the valet parking, only to learn Strowman has stolen his keys. Strowman gives him the keys and says he hopes he has insurance, because there’s his car. The camera turns around to show a car flipped upside down. Strowman laughs and walks off as Owens looks sad.

– Seth Rollins vs. Dolph Ziggler (c): Ziggler’s Intercontinental Title is on the line in this one, and Drew McIntyre is at ringside. They start off with a test of strength until Ziggler starts putting the boots to him. Ziggler drops Rollins and hits an elbow drop, then controls the next few moments of the match with a headlock. Rollins comes back with a hip toss and a dropkick, and Ziggler rolls outside for a breather. Rollins follows him outside and gets in Drew’s face, then he throws Ziggler into the fan barricade. A distraction from Drew leads to Ziggler hitting a cheap shot on Rollins. Back in the ring, Ziggler starts working over Rollins’ bad knee. Ziggler controls the next few moments and applies a sleeper hold. Rollins fights out and runs the ropes, and he collides with Ziggler mid-ring, and both men are down. Rollins hits a boot to the face and then hits a Sling Blade. Rollins clotheslines Ziggler to the outside, but then Drew hits a cheap shot on Rollins behind the ref’s back. The ref ejects Drew from ringside and Drew and Ziggler argue the decision. Rollins rolls up Ziggler from behind, but the ref is distracted by Drew. Rollins dumps Ziggler outside and hits a suicide dive on Ziggler and Drew at ringside. Back in the ring, Rollins goes up top, but Ziggler knocks him down. Ziggler takes control of the match unil Rollins fires back with a superkick. They fight out to the apron and Rollins looks for a powerbomb, but Ziggler escapes and comes back with a DDT on the apron. Ziggler looks for a superkick, but Rollins blocks it and hits the buckle bomb on Ziggler. Rollins follows up with a superkick for a two count. They fight up to the turnbuckle and Rollins shoves the Champion down to the mat. Rollins follows up with the frogsplash off the top for another two count. Rollins hits a kick to the body and then looks for the curb stomp, but Ziggler avoids it. They trade roll up attempts until Ziggler sends Rollins into the ring post. Ziggler follows up with the Zig Zag for a two count. Ziggler takes Rollins up to the top turnbuckle again. Rollins ends up hitting a superplex off the top and follows up with the Falcon Arrow. Rollins pins, but Drew McIntyre comes back and yanks the ref out of he ring while he’s counting. Drew hits the ring and beats down Rollins as the ref calls for the DQ.

Winner view DQ: Seth Rollins

– Drew continues to beat down Rollins as Ziggler gets to his feet. Drew and Ziggler get ready to beat down Rollins some more, but Roman Reigns comes out for the save. Reigns spears Ziggler at ringside, then he hits the ring and fights with Drew. Reigns hits a Superman punch on Drew and Drew falls out to ringside. Reigns helps Rollins to his feet in the ring while Drew and Ziggler head up the ramp. We go to replays as Ziggler holds his IC Title up in the air and RAW comes to a close.

Brie Bella Expresses Desire For WWE Return

Jon Fuentes
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11

Former WWE Superstar Brie Bella recently did an interview with TV Insider to talk about several professional wrestling topics. Bella first discussed her husband, SmackDown Live star Daniel Bryan, and his recent return to in-ring action:

“One thing about Bryan is he is just so healthy and physically fit,” said Brie. “He really knows what he can do. That’s the one thing. I do trust him with the way he moves out there and his body and what he does.

“I’m letting him live his dream and do what he wants because life is too short. There are times I watch and am like, ‘Oh my.’ At the end of the day though, he is great. He is super safe and super healthy.”

Bryan seems to want to have another child, but Brie seems focused on coming back to WWE for a big storyline. She also pondered the idea of coming back alongside her twin sister Brie for a Bella Twins reunion:

“My husband really wants us to get pregnant again. I tell him that in my heart I just really want to come back to have a main story,” said Brie. “Whether it’s a month long or two months, six months. I would love that. I think about how much work one kid is. Bringing another in, I can’t imagine.

“My sister and I are really pushing hard. We would both love to, especially since the last couple of years it was Nikki was there or I was there. The Bella Twins really haven’t had a run since the ‘Divas Revolution.'”

If WWE isn’t able to come up with anything for her creatively soon, Brie will shift her focus to trying for another child with Bryan:

“Even with the Mixed Match Challenge. I was like, ‘Bryan, we should do it if it came back. Wouldn’t it be amazing?’ I’m hoping,” Brie said. “I told him to give me until next summer. Let me see if I can do something before then. If the boss doesn’t want us back by next summer, we can start trying for babies.”

You can read Bella’s full interview with TV Insider by clicking this link here.

Eli Drake Re-Signs With Impact Wrestling

Andrew Ravens
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13

Eli Drake is staying with Impact Wrestling.

The promotion made the news official in a post shared on their official Twitter account on Monday. Impact wrote the following:

“BREAKING NEWS: We’re delighted to announce that dummies will be named and shamed long into the future as @TheEliDrake has signed a contract extension with IMPACT Wrestling.”

Dave Meltzer reported earlier this month in an edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Drake had signed another short-term contract extension, which will keep him with Impact Wrestling through July 31st.

A few months ago, the belief was that if Drake didn’t sign a new deal with Impact then he could be headed to the WWE. With a short extension of his contract, the two sides could be working on a longer deal or Drake will finish up his commitments with Impact through the summer. Time will tell how this plays out. 

What are your thoughts on Drake staying with Impact Wrestling? Sound off in the comment section.

Ex-WWE Creative Team Member On Vince McMahon’s Memory Lapses During Meetings

Andrew Ravens
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15

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon is in charge of several aspects of his sports entertainment company.

Thus, it’s likely that he can forget things from time to time. Former WWE creative team member Kevin Eck was recently a guest on The Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Podcast and during that podcast, Eck talked about a variety of topics about his time in WWE.

He decided to reflect on one interesting story that he had witnessed involving McMahon, which was his memory lapses during creative meetings. At one point, he forgot what the finisher was of Universal Champion Brock Lesnar. Keep in mind that McMahon has taken the finisher before on WWE television.

“As Vince has gotten older I think he has become more forgetful with things and there were a lot of instances where he had to be reminded. He would just flat-out ask, ‘What did we do on RAW last week with this guy? What did we do?’ He would need to be caught up to speed. Granted, he was in his late 60s/early 70s at that point and responsible for a lot of programming and seen a lot of angles over the years and seen a lot of TV shows.

One of the funniest things I recall is Vince one time in a booking meeting…it was Brock Lesnar against somebody and Vince was trying to think of what the finish could be and he literally says this in a booking meeting. He said, ‘What’s Brock’s finish again?’ It wasn’t a joke.

There was kind of a pause and somebody spoke up and said, ‘The F-5.’ Then it suddenly dawned on Vince that he had taken that move not too long before that and hurt his hip and made a joke about it, ‘Oh that’s right, my hip didn’t like that movie very much.’ He could not remember the F-5.”

H/T to Wrestlezone for the transcribed quotes.

What are your thoughts on this story about McMahon’s memory lapses?

Two Matches Advertised For September’s Hell In A Cell PPV

Andrew Ravens
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21

This year’s WWE Hell in a Cell pay-per-view is scheduled for Sunday, September 16th from San Antonio, Texas at the AT&T Center. The show will feature Superstars from both brands and follows SummerSlam, which is arguably WWE’s second biggest event of the year.

With tickets for Hell in a Cell scheduled to go on sale this Friday, San Antonio’s local ABC affiliate KSAT 12 is advertising two big matches for the show.

According to KSAT 12, the card will feature:

  • WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe
  • Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens

Of course, fans should always remember “card subject to change” – especially in cases like this, when the event is several months away. It’s unclear exactly where KSAT got the information, as the AT&T Center website does not even have an event page for Hell in a Cell, where such matches would be listed.

Discussion: What are your thoughts on these potential matches?

Top Rope Breaks During Main Event Of Sunday’s WWE Live Event

Andrew Ravens
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8

A unique situation occurred a recent WWE live event.

The sports entertainment held a RAW branded live event on Sunday night in Anaheim, CA at the Honda Center that was headlined by Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins defeating WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre in a tag team match.

During the match, the top rope broke but the performers continued the match, which eventually saw the babyfaces go over. Fans who were in attendance posted these videos/photos on social media to document the situation.

https://twitter.com/ClippsMcGee/status/1011103794753462272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

https://twitter.com/ClippsMcGee/status/1011106723799523328

https://twitter.com/ClippsMcGee/status/1011108325323255810

WWE is in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center for this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw that will see Ziggler make his first title defense as Intercontinental Champion against Rollins.

What are your thoughts on these superstars continuing the match despite the top rope breaking?

Triple H Talks NXT Becoming A More Global Brand

Jon Fuentes
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1

Triple H recently did an interview with Inside the Ropes during this week’s UK Championship Tournament tapings. During the interview, The Game discussed the WWE’s UK brand becoming included in a more global vision of NXT. Here’s what he had to say on the matter:

“I think it organically developed into that, it what was always in my head of how it would end up being. When we did it the first time it was, ‘Hey, WWE is going to do this UK tournament’ and I think it helped up put more eyeballs on it. But as NXT has become more and more established, the ability to look at Raw and SmackDown as kind of these two bigger flagship juggernauts that are out there and where everything sits beneath it.

“It’s not a downgrade, but it’s just this global system that allows you to have the benefits of the WWE and a career that can be meaningful. Putting these in other international markets and in some way building a global territory system, much like what existed in the U.S. year ago, but global.

“Having talent have those places to work, so even if they spend time in a location and they’re not quite ready to make that move yet or it’s just time for them to go someplace else, they can go someplace else, but still stay within that system. Still continued to grow.

“If I were a 25 year old kid trying to make it in the business and they told me, ‘You want to go to the Middle East for six months and work a territory there?’ I’d say, ‘hell yeah.’ Those are the things that are a blast when you’re at that time frame and to be able to have that experience will be so valuable to all those talents.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

PROGRESS Announces Roster for USA Tour

Jake Skudder
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0

PROGRESS Wrestling has announced the roster for their upcoming tour of the United States. The Coast to Coast tour will be taking place from August 4th and will be hitting the following cities:

  • 4th August – 2300 Arena, Philadelphia (aka The ECW Arena). TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY 28TH MAY AT 12PM ET / 5PM UK 
  • 5th August – Melrose Memorial Hall, Melrose, Boston. TICKETS
  • 7th August – La Boom, New York City. TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY 28TH MAY AT 12PM ET / 5PM UK 
  • 9th August – Washington Hall, Seattle. TICKETS ON SALE MONDAY 28TH MAY AT 12PM PT / 8PM UK
  • 11th August – Cicero Stadium, Cicero, Chicago TICKETS
  • 12th August – Monaghan Knights of Columbus Hall, Livonia, Detroit TICKETS

The talent that PROGRESS will be taking ‘across the pond’ for #CoastToCoast are as follows:

  • PROGRESS World Champion – Travis Banks (4th, 5th, 7th August only)
  • PROGRESS Tag Team Champions – Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake)
  • PROGRESS Women’s Champion – Jinny (4th, 11th, 12th August only)
  • WWE United Kingdom Champion – Pete Dunne 
  • NXT Tag Team Champions – Moustache Mountain (Tyler Bate and Trent Seven)
  • TK Cooper
  • WALTER (9th, 11th, 12th August only)
  • ‘Flash’ Morgan Webster
  • Mark Haskins
  • Jimmy Havoc
  • Mark Andrews
  • Eddie Dennis
  • Jack Sexsmith (7th, 9th, 11th, 12th August only
  • CCK (Chris Brookes and Kid Lykos)
  • Toni Storm (4th, 11th, 12th August only)

Ticket information is available via the tweet below from PROGRESS co-owner Jim Smallman:

Becky Lynch Claims She’s Pitched Women’s Tag Team Titles To WWE Officials

Andrew Ravens
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3

Becky Lynch has attempted to pitch WWE officials an interesting idea.

That idea the SmackDown Live star has tried to get over is about a women’s tag team championship that could be used on both brands, RAW and SmackDown Live.

While speaking with longtime WWE ring announcer Lilian Garcia last week at Ace Comic Con in Seattle, the idea was brought up to which Lynch noted that she had been trying to convince WWE officials that it was a good idea for a year if not longer.

“Been pitching it for a year — maybe two,” Lynch stated (transcript courtesy of Pro Wrestling Sheet).

Lynch stated that there wouldn’t be enough competitors to make the titles viable on a single brand and thus the reason it would appear on both brands. She believes that it would set the stage for a larger range of matches and possibilities.

“I think that would get people excited to watch any of the brands, because you wouldn’t know when people would be showing up on either RAW or Smackdown.”

What are your thoughts on Lynch pitching these ideas? Sound off in the comment section.

NXT UK Superstars Set to Collide for PROGRESS World Championship

Jake Skudder
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0

PROGRESS Wrestling has announced the main event for their upcoming Chapter 73 event ‘Fourth Shade of Green’ which will be taking place on Sunday July 15th from the O2 Academy in Birmingham, England.

PROGRESS World Champion Travis Banks will be defending his title against British Strong Style/Moustache Mountain stable member Tyler Bate.

The ‘Kiwi Buzzsaw’ Banks has been a dominant reigning World Champion since his win over WWE United Kingdom Champion Pete Dunne in September 2017 having avenged losses to Keith Lee and Matt Riddle whilst Champion. Banks also featured in arguably the best PROGRESS bout of 2017 when he defeated Will Ospreay as part of the Unboxing Live show in December, again to retain his title.

Tyler Bate is of course a name that fans of the WWE United Kingdom specials will know well. The inaugural UK Champion has seen his stock rise exponentially over the past year with performances on WWE’s 205 Live and NXT Takeover where he had arguably the match of the year against Pete Dunne; having said that the momentum that PROGRESS has found since ‘turning’ Banks against the fans (he would say that they turned against him) has been nothing short of phenomenal and when he finally drops the title it will be a huge moment and a chance to coronate a new champion and usher in a new era for the UK based company.

New Japan Reveal Official G1 Climax Website

Jake Skudder
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0

New Japan Pro Wrestling has revealed the official website for the upcoming G1 Climax tournament. The annual two block/round robin tournament is regarded by many as the pinnacle of tournament grappling and we are just 19 days away from the start in Ota City, Tokyo.

Here are the entrants for the 2018 iteration of the tournament:

  • Kenny Omega (3 time entrant, 3rd consecutive entry)
  • Michael Elgin (4 time entrant, 4th consecutive entry)
  • Jay White (G1 Debut)
  • Hiroshi Tanahashi (17 time entrant, 17th consecutive entry)
  • Togi Makabe (15 time entrant, 15th consecutive entry)
  • Juice Robinson (2 time entrant, 2nd consecutive entry)
  • Kazuchika Okada (7 time entrant, 7th consecutive entry)
  • Hirooki Goto (11 time entrant, 11th consecutive entry)
  • Tomohiro Ishii (6 time entrant, 6th consecutive entry)
  • Toru Yano (13 time entrant, 12th consecutive entry)
  • YOSHI-HASHI (3 time entrant, 3rd consecutive entry)
  • Bad Luck Fale (5 time entrant, 5th consecutive entry)
  • Tama Tonga (3 time entrant, 3rd consecutive entry)
  • Hangman Page (G1 Debut)
  • Tetsuya Naito (9 time entrant, 9th consecutive entry)
  • EVIL (3 time entrant, 3rd consecutive entry)
  • SANADA (3 time entrant, 3rd consecutive entry)
  • Minoru Suzuki (8 time entrant, 2nd consecutive entry)
  • Zack Sabre Jr. (2 time entrant, 2nd consecutive entry)
  • Kota Ibushi (4 time entrant, 2nd consecutive entry)

As we reported recently the full card for the tournament has been released by New Japan, the first night’s action in A Block will feature Hiroshi Tanahashi facing Minoru Suzuki and former IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada battling Jay White. Night 2 will see the first bouts in B Block and Kenny Omega vs Tetsuya Naito and Kota Ibushi vs Zack Sabre Jr are the highlight bouts scheduled.

Scott Hall Headed To The UK In November For “An Evening With” Shows

Jake Skudder
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Kayfabe Events has announced that WWE/WCW legend Razor Ramon/Scott Hall will be heading to the UK for a special run of speaking dates in November.

The nWo original will be in London on November 14th, Manchester on the 15th, Cardiff on the 16th and Brighton for the final date on the 17th. The final night in Brighton will be closed out with PROGRESS star Chuck Mambo hosting a ‘Beach Party’ event in the RIPTIDE promotion’s hometown of Brighton.

Full details including the confirmed venues for the tour are being announced Wednesday and tickets will be available to purchase at 9am on Friday 29th (GMT).

Kayfabe Events recently held a run of dates with Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart that garnered mainstream media attention in the UK through Sky Sports and Hart did not hold back when discussing his time in the WWE, WCW and beyond…there’s definitely going to be some stories that the ‘Bad Guy’ has to tell.

Other confirmed events for Kayfabe Events include:

  • An Evening with TK Cooper – Finchley Tavern July 4th
  • The Undead Tea Party Tour with Su Yung – 27th and 28th July
  • An Evening with Joseph Park and Abyss – September 1st in Worthing

Tickets information for these and other shows are available to view via the tweet below:

https://twitter.com/KayfabeEvents/status/1011294942910656514

Shane Taylor On If He’d Like A WWE Run

Jon Fuentes
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Ring Of Honor (ROH) star Shane Taylor recently did an interview with Wrestling Epicenter to talk about several professional wrestling topics. Taylor first offered his thoughts on former EVOLVE and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG) star Keith Lee recently signing with WWE:

“I am overjoyed for Keith. When he decided to sign on with EVOLVE, I told him I was proud of him then. He’s been absolutely tearing the globe up going everywhere doing everything. I am incredibly proud of him. He’s like a big brother to me. I can’t wait to watch him on the Network and see the things that they do and that they accomplish.”

Taylor was then asked if he’d like to have a WWE run of his own. While he admits that many professional wrestlers want WrestleMania moments, he’d like to be the guy that sticks with one promotion and puts it on his back:

“I like what I’m doing. I have a lot of goals I want to reach in Ring of Honor and I don’t want to go anywhere until those are completed. But, again, there are a million variables that go with that. Time, business, money, opportunity, my family – of course. Obviously, everybody wants to have those big stages, those big moments – WrestleMania moments.

“But for me, and I told this to Jay Briscoe, there is something very cool about being the guy that sticks with one company and puts that company on his back and says, “We’re going to go as far as I can take you.” For me, there is something very, very cool about that. One of my goals, whether I stay there my entire career or not, is that people look back at my era in Ring of Honor – with all the talent that we have – and go ‘That was Shane Taylor’s era. That was my era!’ That’s something I work hard for everyday.”

Finally, Taylor offered his thoughts on Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks’ self-funded “All In” event scheduled for September 1st in Chicago:

“I think what “All In” does, and what Bullet Club does by proxy, is they present a very DIY punk rock style. They represent that sort of counter-culture to other promotions. People gravitate towards them because they feel like they’re the outcasts, they’re the rebels. They’re the guys who do things by their own rules.

“People can get behind that. When you have something like that, when you have a movement like that and you are able to capitalize like that, I want to say 10,000 seats sold in under 30 minutes? I want to say we were in Chicago, the last stop of the War of the Worlds tour, when they found out.

“I went up to all of them and congratulated them because that’s awesome! To stick your neck out like that and to have it pay off like that only means better things for wrestling, better things for them, and better things for ROH!”

You can read Taylor’s full interview with Wrestling Epicenter by clicking this link here.

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