TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro recently detailed key aspects of WWE’s business strategy, including ticket pricing, live event scheduling, and media rights, during an appearance at the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media and Communications conference in Boston. Through dynamic pricing and yield management, Shapiro sees “tremendous upside” in WWE ticket revenue.
He defended TKO’s decision to reduce the number of annual WWE live events from approximately 300 to around 200, stating it wasn’t solely to improve profit margins, and that further “pruning” of the schedule might occur.
Regarding WWE’s Premium Live Event (PLE) broadcast rights, currently with NBC Universal/Peacock until March 2026, Shapiro confirmed ongoing renewal talks. He emphasized TKO isn’t afraid of working with multiple media partners, calling it smart business despite admitting that as a viewer, “I can’t stand it.”
Shapiro noted there’s no rush to finalize a new media deal, stressing the importance of finding the right partners. He characterized WWE PLEs as “very high quality and low volume.” The value of the WWE content library was reportedly not discussed during his appearance.
Gail Kim will step into the role of special guest referee for the NWA World Women’s Championship match between reigning champion Kenzie Paige and WWE’s Natalya. The NWA made the announcement via social media on Tuesday, May 13, ahead of their Crockett Cup event this Saturday, May 17th, at Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena.
NWA President William Patrick Corgan explained the decision in a statement, citing the heated rivalry between Paige and Natalya. “As the person who booked this very special match-up… and given the bad blood between the two stars… I’ve come to a very important conclusion: which is that the officiating of this match must be handled in a very particular way,” Corgan stated.
He noted the need for an impartial and respected official: “I am concerned about… ensuring that we in the National Wrestling Alliance will have a clear and just result. Therefore, I’ve named Gail Kim as the special guest referee… for I know well Ms. Kim’s impeccable and unimpeachable integrity in the sport of professional wrestling.” Corgan added with, “May the best lady win.”
“As the person who booked this very special match-up between the WWE’s Natalya and NWA World Women’s Champion Kenzie Paige, in a championship match no less, and given the bad blood between the two stars, which has only built since the Bloodsport event in Vegas and of course Ms.… pic.twitter.com/583vTML3C7
Kim was previously announced for an autograph signing at the Crockett Cup. Her new role adds further intrigue to the already anticipated championship clash, promising a firm hand to control the action. Here is the latest card:
NWA World Women’s Title Match: Kenzie Paige (c) vs. Natalya
NWA Worlds Heavyweight Title Match: Thom Latimer (c) vs. Rhino
Chain Match: Jay Bradley vs. Wrecking Ball Legursky
Alex Hammerstone vs. “Thrillbilly” Silas Mason
Kylie Paige vs. Natalia Markova
NWA World Television Championship: Carson Bartholomew Drake (c) vs. Bryan Idol
NWA National Heavyweight Championship: Mims (c) vs. Max the Impaler
Joe Hendry has responded to criticism of his WrestleMania 41 match.
The TNA World Champion was revealed as a surprise opponent for Randy Orton after Kevin Owens had to pull out of their scheduled match due to his neck injury. While Hendry got a big pop and he was able to do his famous taunt during the bout, The Viper ended up defeating the current champion in almost 3 minutes.
A lot of people criticized this booking, saying that it undermined the TNA World title. Hendry responded to these claims in his new interview with Chris Van Vliet. The TNA star first explained that the match was not completely one-sided and he got some offense in. With RKO being a ‘one hit kill’ move per Hendry, the loss made sense for his character:
“The feedback that I got was exactly what it was supposed to be. And let’s be honest, the next how many days later, we had the biggest show TNA has ever had in 10 years, we had a higher attendance at Slammiversary. So we were past 4,000. I understand what this is, and my job is to put asses in seats for TNA wrestling.”
Joe Hendry explained elsewhere in the interview that previous champions have brought different things to the World title. He gave the example of Josh Alexander, whose reign was all about putting instant classic matches. The viral star explained that his goal is to do everything that’s best for business and bring as many eyes as possible to the company.
The 37-year-old also discussed how there have been other stars who have suffered quick defeat at WrestleMania but it did not affect their careers. According to him, it’s all about the kind of story you’re able to tell with the title:
“I think that in wrestling, everything has to be a story. So, in the movie, does Rocky win every single match? I mean, the story is Joe Hendry lost to Randy Orton. How is the champion going to recover from this? You know who else lost quickly at WrestleMania? John Cena to The Undertaker. You know who else lost quickly at WrestleMania? Triple H.
People have lost quickly at WrestleMania and these are the stories that we’re telling. When John Cena lost to The Undertaker, it was what is the path from here? And that’s what I’ve really learned from watching John Cena is that just make everything a story. Everything is a story. So it’s just about, okay, where do I go from here as champion?”
Apart from this, Joe Hendry talked about things such as the advice John Cena gave him during his Royal Rumble appearance, Triple H’s gesture for him at WrestleMania and more. You can check out his full interview below:
WWE is set to receive $7,125,250 in public funding from the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) to support the first-ever two-night SummerSlam, scheduled for August 2–3, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The figure represents the largest known site fee ever awarded for a WWE event in the United States, according to reporting from Wrestlenomics‘ Brandon Thurston.
The funding, drawn from the federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund under the American Rescue Plan Act, is being allocated as an incentive to support tourism and economic development through major entertainment events.
The NJSEA resolution outlines the fee as a strategic investment in New Jersey’s hospitality and events sector.
An economic impact study commissioned by WWE and conducted by Applied Analysis estimates the event will generate $80.7 million in total economic impact for the region, including $32.4 million in salaries and wages.
NJSEA spokesperson Brian Aberback said the funds aim to offset the incentive fee based on projected benefits, citing increased global visibility and boosts to local businesses like hotels and restaurants.
By comparison, other known WWE site fees include $5 million from Las Vegas for WrestleMania 41 and $500,000 from Tampa-St. Petersburg for Royal Rumble 2024.
The NJSEA also provided $5 million earlier this year to support UFC 302, a TKO Group Holdings event held at the Prudential Center in Newark.
Speaking on his “Hall of Fame” podcast with co-host Brad Gilmore, Booker addressed the online exchange that began when someone commented that Evans was one of the best up-and-coming high-flyers in wrestling, leading to Ricochet responding about his own status in the business.
“I think Ricochet missed the point as far as what the question was more than anything,” Booker said. “I just think that’s where we are in the business, where we got to try to bring somebody down opposed to trying to lift somebody up.”
Booker’s Advice for Veterans
The two-time WWE Hall of Famer expressed disappointment that Ricochet, who has been praised for innovating the aerial style in modern wrestling, didn’t take the opportunity to support a younger talent making his way up.
“Because for me, if I see that young dude, Javon Evans, and what he’s doing, I don’t care. I don’t care who I am. I’m going to give him props because he’s freaking so good,” Booker emphasized.
“To see a young brother coming up and to not push him to the next level, especially after what you’ve brought to the table, speaking of Ricochet, how he’s innovated the game from his aerial assault prowess and whatnot—you supposed to be pushing for that guy no matter what company he’s in.”
Escalating Tensions
The exchange between the two wrestlers escalated when Evans responded to Ricochet with: “I bet yo brown egg head ass would squash me if Tony told you to. Much love OG,” which Booker’s co-host Brad Gilmore noted was at least somewhat respectful while still maintaining the competitive banter.
However, the situation turned more contentious when Evans made a personal comment about Ricochet’s current position in AEW, stating: “Now you’re wrestling in front of 2,000 people every week for a crackhead,” which both Booker and Gilmore agreed crossed a line.
Booker acknowledged the generational differences in how social media is used, noting that Evans, who is only 20 years old, has a different approach to online interaction.
“You got to understand that Ricochet is dealing with a young guy who’s still a kid. Still a kid, man, who does this social media totally different than you and I,” Booker explained. “He grew up with an iPad in his hand when he came out the womb. The way Javon Evans talks and the way Ricochet talks is two totally different worlds.”
Learning Opportunity for Young Talent
While offering some understanding toward Evans’ youth, Booker still offered advice to the NXT star:
“That’s where Je’von Evans is going to have to learn too, to leave that kind of mess in the gutter. Don’t go down to somebody else’s level. If you do go down to somebody else’s level, just go down to bring them up to your level.”
Booker concluded with some wisdom for Evans, who has been featured prominently in NXT, including main eventing Stand & Deliver:
“Especially when you’re shining, man. Like you’re doing so great. You’re main eventing Stand and Deliver and you’re doing all these huge things. Just fall back on people who trying to bring you down.”
The WWE Hall of Famer’s comments reflect his consistent approach to mentoring younger talent, focusing on rising above negativity and building a positive reputation in the industry.
Four of TNA Wrestling’s top champions are officially set to compete at Triplemanía Regia, a marquee event from Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide that will feature talent from AAA, TNA, and WWE.
Set for Sunday, June 15, at 6 p.m. local time inside Arena Monterrey in Mexico, Triplemanía Regia will host TNA World Champion Joe Hendry, X Division Champion Moose, along with reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions, Nic and Ryan Nemeth. The news was first reported by Sports Illustrated.
AAA CEO Dorian Joaquín Roldán Peña emphasized the significance of this international collaboration.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these four incredible TNA stars to AAA,” Roldán Peña said.
“This collaboration represents the best of both worlds – the passion and tradition of Lucha Libre, and the global momentum of TNA.”
TNA Wrestling President Carlos Silva echoed the sentiment, calling the event a “milestone moment” in professional wrestling, highlighting its unique inclusion of stars from AAA, WWE, and TNA under one roof.
Triplemanía Regia continues AAA’s tradition of high-profile, cross-promotional events, and this year’s edition promises a historic night of competition and spectacle.
Dominik Mysterio may portray wrestling’s most despised villain on television, but behind the scenes, “Dirty Dom” still gets starstruck when legends of the industry sing his praises.
In a revealing interview with The Wrestling Classic, the current Intercontinental Champion opened up about his reaction to John Cena’s recent comments on the Pat McAfee Show, where the 17-time world champion identified Mysterio as the future of WWE.
Cena’s Unexpected Endorsement
“I think that was super dope of him to do that,” Mysterio admitted, momentarily dropping his heel persona.
“John doesn’t have to do any of that stuff. John doesn’t have to – he’s John Cena. He’s the biggest, if not the biggest movie star in the world, along with the biggest wrestler currently in the world.”
The significance of Cena’s endorsement isn’t lost on Mysterio, who confessed to being a lifelong fan of the “Doctor of Thuganomics” long before sharing the ring with him.
“I’ve known that dude since I was a kid,” Dominik revealed. “I love the doctor of thuganomics. I played his album when I was in school. Before I jumped in the showers, I always got to listen to music or have a speaker on. I’d play his CD. It was signed for me. I was a Cenomark, you know?”
From Fan to Colleague
Mysterio’s journey with Cena began professionally when live crowds returned after the pandemic.
“He was the guy that was there for me with the tag matches giving me advice as a good guy. We both were baby faces at that time. I was tagging with John Cena and Rey Mysterio against Roman and the Usos.”
This early mentorship evolved as Dominik’s career progressed.
“The fact that Cena was able to see me from that beginning to then a couple months later when he came back – a year or two later when he came back, I was a bad guy then and I got to wrestle him in a dark match. So he’s seen me through this whole process and what I’ve gone through.”
For Dominik, having witnessed his transformation from rookie to champion makes Cena’s words particularly meaningful.
“For him to say those words about me, it’s really special,” he said.
Global Ambassador Status
Beyond the support from wrestling royalty, Mysterio’s rising status within WWE is further evidenced by his selection as one of the company’s ambassadors for their crucial Indian market.
Alongside Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, Dominik recently completed a whirlwind promotional tour in Mumbai.
“It was so life-changing for me, going out there and seeing India and just seeing how big and massive WWE actually is out there,” Mysterio explained. “The impact that we were having – just going out there and doing all this social stuff – it was honestly super surreal.”
Despite being in India for only two days, the pair created extensive content, participating in Bollywood-themed photoshoots, cultural activities, and media appearances.
“We were nonstop from 6:00 in the morning till 7:00 p.m. at night,” Dominik recalled. “The fact that we were the chosen ones to go out there just goes to show you the power that me and Liv have.”
As Mysterio continues to forge his own path separate from his famous father’s legacy, the support from established legends like Cena provides both validation and motivation. F
There has been an update regarding the date for this year’s WWE Draft which shakes up the rosters.
A couple of months back, it was reported that WWE had chalked out plans for this year’s WWE Draft. However, the company hasn’t officially announced the shake-up.
WWE usually holds a Draft annually where WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown rosters are shuffled and NXT wrestlers are called-up to the main roster. An update has emerged on the WWE Draft. It has come to light that the company is still planning and a potential date has been noted.
Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Radio reported that the draft is “very likely” to happen at the end of May. It could potentially take place over the weekend in Tampa, Florida.
Alvarez said:
“For whatever reason, Giulia and Roxanne are still considered NXT talents. Roxanne has been a regular on the main roster since Royal Rumble; she should be petitioning for main roster back pay. She’s been here so often. But I was told it’s not set in stone, but very likely at the end of this month, when they’re doing that series of dates in Tampa, it’s very likely there might be a draft on that weekend or that week, which would probably mean that some people are being called up.”
WWE had announced the weekend takeover at Yuengling Center in Tampa, FL. It will start on May 24th as Saturday Night’s Main Event takes places, followed by NXT Battleground the next night. Yuengling Center will also host WWE Raw and NXT the following Monday and Tuesday respectively.
In the past, WWE Draft started on WWE SmackDown and continued on WWE Raw. If WWE decides to follow the tradition, this year it could kick off on May 23rd on the blue brand and continue to the red brand on May 26th.
Dominik Mysterio wants to set the record straight: his rise in WWE wasn’t a product of nepotism – it was years in the making.
In a candid interview on the Intoxicados Podcast, the Intercontinental Champion addressed one of the biggest misconceptions about his career: that he simply inherited his place in WWE because of his legendary father, Rey Mysterio.
“People think I just walked into WWE overnight,” Dominik explained. “But I trained for almost three years. I lived in Tampa and trained with Jay Lethal, then moved to Canada to train with Lance Storm. My first match was in 2020, but I’d been training since 2017.”
He even documented parts of his journey.
“I did post my progress—like my first 619 or stuff I’d do in the ring. It wasn’t sudden…
I’ve missed birthdays, my first wedding anniversary. My dad missed my birthdays too. But now as an adult in the business, I understand—you make sacrifices to succeed.”
Stepping Out of His Father’s Shadow
The shadow of his father’s Hall of Fame legacy loomed large, but Dominik has steadily emerged as a standout in his own right.
“Everyone was saying like, you know, I wasn’t going to be able to do it or like I was never going to be able to fill Rey’s shoes or I’d never get out of his shadow,” he said. “But it’s like – I did it in less than five years.”
Breakout Babyface
That breakout moment came at WrestleMania 41, when years of boos gave way to cheers.
“That reaction… was definitely a surreal moment,” Dominik recalled. “It felt different for sure.”
For Dominik, the journey hasn’t just been about proving others wrong – it’s been about proving he’s a bonafide star on his own merits. Five years in, it’s safe to say he’s succeeding.
Here’s the preview for tonight’s WWE NXT, broadcasting live on the CW Network at 8/7c from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida:
NXT Champion Oba Femi vs. Charlie Dempsey
The dominant Oba Femi puts his momentum to the test against technical specialist Charlie Dempsey of the No Quarter Catch Crew in a highly anticipated singles match.
Wes Lee vs. Tony D’Angelo
“The Don of NXT” Tony D’Angelo faces off with the high-flying Wes Lee in a clash that could have major implications for the NXT North American Title scene.
Joe Hendry and Trick Williams contract signing for the TNA World Championship at Battleground
With Battleground approaching, TNA World Champion Joe Hendry and NXT’s Trick Williams will make their title match official with a contract signing, promising fireworks ahead of their showdown.
Tonight’s episode continues the build to WWE Battleground on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida.
NXT Champion @Obaofwwe will be in action when he takes on No Quarter Catch Crew's Charlie Dempsey TOMORROW on #WWENXT!
WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) believes current Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio is destined for a massive babyface run, potentially becoming the “biggest babyface” in WWE. Speaking with CasinoBeats, the WCW legend gave high praise for the young star’s development and connection with the audience.
DDP pointed out the positive reactions Dominik often receives despite his heel persona during recent appearances, including at WrestleMania 41.
“It was interesting because he’s the biggest heel, and yet at that last WrestleMania, boy you swear to God he was the biggest babyface of the company,” DDP stated.
He advised Dominik to maintain his current character for now.
“The kid’s going to be a hell of a babyface when he makes that flip,” DDP stated. “Hold onto that heel thing as long as you can, because when he flips, I’ll tell you what that’s a kid I’m a big fan of.”
DDP also praised Dominik’s journey and work ethic.
“I am personally a big fan of how hard he’s worked to get to this spot,” he said, recalling Dominik’s early days. “I don’t know many young kids who could have come in the way he did with his dad, not really know how to work at all, and has turned himself [around]… that kid, he has got it all and some.”
Women’s World Champion IYO SKY can’t help but enjoy aligning with Rhea Ripley, despite ‘Mami’ having her eye on SKY’s Women’s World Championship. On the May 12, edition of WWE RAW, the champion and the woman she dethroned teamed up to earn a victory over Roxanne Perez and Giulia.
Taking to X, SKY said that Ripley had come back from Australia, where she’d been promoting WWE Crown Jewel: Perth, to help her. SKY knows that she “shouldn’t let my guard down” but can’t help but enjoy teaming with Rhea Ripley.
SKY won the gold from Ripley in March 2025, disrupting Rhea’s road to WrestleMania 41. Instead of walking in as champion, Ripley challenged for the gold alongside Bianca Belair but both came up short against SKY.
With Money in the Bank coming, SKY is wise to keep an eye out for any potential challengers. Nevertheless, stepping in the ring with Ripley as allies is proving to be enjoyable for the champ.
The road to Money in the Bank will begin soon enough with Ladder Match Qualifying Matches set to take place on the May 19, edition of WWE Raw. During the May 12, show, it was announced that next week’s Raw at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina will feature Superstars vying to earn a spot in the ladder matches. It was also revealed that qualifying matches will take place on the upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown At this time, WWE has yet to announce any participants.
The May 19, Raw, falling on the least-favorite day of Glenn ‘Kane’ Jacobs, will see more than just these qualifying matches. The dream team of AJ Styles and Penta will team up to take on Finn Balor and JD McDonagh of Judgment Day.
Jey Uso is also set for a non-title clash against Bron Breakker. During Raw, Jey made the save for CM Punk and Sami Zayn when they were attacked by Breakker and Rollins. Later in the show, Jey was found attacked backstage with Breakker standing over him.
Sheamus will step into the ring against Grayson Waller next week. After defeating Austin Theory the previous week, Sheamus intends to go 2-0 against A-Town Down Under.
Carlito is set to make a rare appearance outside WWE later this month as part of WWE’s ongoing willingness to work with other promotions. The Judgment Day member has been announced for WWC’s Summer Madness event on May 31 at the Pepín Cestero Arena in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.
The news was confirmed by WWC (World Wrestling Council) who shared in a statement that WWE and WWC reached an agreement. WWC stated:
“WWE has reached an agreement with WWC in Puerto Rico. Adam Pearce has authorized Carlito to be present in the island to settle unfinished business.”
Carlito’s time in WWC began as a cameraman in 1999 but it wouldn’t be long before he became an in-ring competitor. In the company, he became the Puerto Rico Heavyweight Champion, a Carribean Heavyweight Champion, and a 17-time Universal Heavyweight Champion.
This marks Carlito’s first WWC appearance since the promotion’s 50th Anniversary Show in 2023, which occurred before he re-signed with WWE. Now fans will get to see the Cool Superstar return to his roots in Puerto Rico and show what he can do as part of WWC once more.
Despite consistent reports and rumors, WWE hasn’t officially announced Evolution 2 yet, but it appears that Fanatics may have given away the show, as well as it’s location. According to a listing posted on LinkedIn on May 9th, the retail giant is looking to hire what’s described as a Retail Event Associate for a WWE event listed as Evolution in Atlanta.
This comes after reports that WWE was planning to host Evolution in Atlanta on July 12th in Atlanta, despite initial rumors saying the show would be on July 5th in Connecticut. During a recent Fightful Select Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp shared that talent have been kept in the dark about the show, raising questions about the fate of WWE’s second all-women’s event.
“Evolution, it’s something I’ve been following up on a lot. Talent that I have talked to don’t know about it.“
Charlotte Flair, who played a major role in the first all-women’s Evolution event, told Denise Sancedo that she hopes Evolution 2 happens, but admitted that “I really don’t know” about any plans.
While July 12th and Atlanta are likely to be the date and host of Evolution 2, nothing is confirmed until WWE says so, and time will tell when this long-awaited women’s event takes place.
It appears that a WWE tag team has broken up after their loss on this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
The main event of tonight’s show featured a tag team match that saw Rhea Ripley teaming up with IYO SKY to counter the challenge of Giulia & Roxanne Perez.
The ending of the bout saw Giulia battling SKY in the babyface corner when Ripley sneaked a tag. The former NXT Women’s champion was still focused on IYO and she didn’t see The Mami entering the ring.
Rhea shoved Giulia just as Roxanne was looking for a splash from the top rope and Perez ended up taking out her own tag team partner. Rhea Ripley then hit the Riptide on Giulia to get the victory for her team.
Roxanne Perez was unhappy with these turn of events. She was ranting about how the two needed to regroup and refocus to make an impact in a backstage video the company posted after the show. Giulia, however, told the fellow NXT alumni that there was no ‘we’ anymore before walking out.
This segment suggests that the partnership between the two female stars is over after only two matches as a team and we’re going to see them going their separate ways in coming times.
A massive World Heavyweight Championship match was announced on tonight’s May 12, 2025, episode of WWE Raw. “The Ring General” GUNTHER is now officially slated to challenge the winner of the upcoming title bout between current champion Jey Uso and Logan Paul. This championship encounter will take place on June 9th in Phoenix, Arizona.
The announcement sets the stage for a clash, regardless of who goes over between Uso and Paul at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event. Current World Heavyweight Champion Uso, however, was quick to issue a fiery response to the prospect of facing GUNTHER again, whom he defeated for the title at WrestleMania 41.
“Remind me of my place? My place? I’m in my place! This is my place! I run this place! With this on my arm!” Jey Uso declared on Raw. “I’m gonna handle the YouTuber [Logan Paul]! Then me and the Ring General, we gonna run it back! And I’m gonna walk out this match the same way I walked out of WrestleMania!”
GUNTHER is coming off a win over Pat McAfee at Backlash this past Saturday.
"Remind me of my place? My place? I'm in my place! This my place! I run this place! With this on my arm! I'm gonna handle the YouTuber! Then me and the ring general, we gonna run it back! And I'm gonna walk out this match the same way I walked out of WrestleMania!" – Jey Uso to… pic.twitter.com/XJDBXJTwTC
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) May 13, 2025
WWE has once again placed Finn Bálor and Roxanne Perez in the background of a backstage segment, marking the second consecutive week the two Superstars have appeared together on camera. Though no interaction has been acknowledged on commentary or in storylines, their recurring presence hints at a developing connection.
The company has previously used similar visual cues to build anticipation for future alliances or feuds, making this pairing worth noting.
Wrestling fans on social media have taken notice of this subtle on-screen detail, with some speculating where this could be headed. Pairing Finn Bálor and Roxanne Perez is an intriguing prospect, and could be a vehicle to help establish Perez on the main roster. We’ll be tracking this developing situation.
What if the plan here is for Finn Balor to cost Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez the tag titles to Roxanne and Giulia ?#WWERawpic.twitter.com/qwRi9BdjWG
Joey Janela has taken to social media to clarify comments he made in a recent Yahoo Uncrowned interview about the late Sabu, particularly concerning Sabu’s kratom use before a GCW match and an in-ring incident. His original interview described Sabu taking kratom after arriving late, appearing on “a different f—ing planet,” and being “knocked out cold” during the match. These comments led to fan speculation following Sabu’s recent passing.
In a lengthy post on X, Janela stated the Yahoo interview occurred just two days after the GCW match, weeks before Sabu’s death, and he wasn’t aware of what would later transpire. He admitted to exaggerating the in-ring moment: “I said he was ‘knocked out’ after that spot when despite being a rough deal. He was not that. I was just trying to add to the lore and [unpredictability] of Sabu.”
Janela further explained that Sabu took kratom “daily for years,” reportedly to help him get off other addictive substances, not just for that one event.
A follow-up report from Fightful Select‘s Sean Ross Sapp noted that GCW officials were “frustrated, embarrassed and humiliated” by Janela’s original interview. The Fightful report also added there was no evidence suggesting the match itself contributed to Sabu’s death.
I’m truly devastated over this and this whole deal has really affected me. Kratom is something Sabu took daily for years it helped him get off other substances, Sabu loved his weed & Kratom his body was wrecked doing what he loved for 40 years.
WWE has confirmed another high-profile bout for the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event special from Tampa, FL airing May 24 on NBC and Peacock.
Seth Rollins will team with Bron Breakker to take on the duo of CM Punk and Sami Zayn in a blockbuster tag team match. This adds to the already intruiging card, which includes Logan Paul challenging Jey Uso for the World Heavyweight Championship.
The next WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event airs live 5/24 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
Bringing Amateur Excellence to the Professional Stage
In a new interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff elaborated on their ambitious plans for Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW), the new combat sports league designed to provide a professional platform for elite amateur wrestlers.
“This is pro-pro wrestling, brother,” said Hogan. “This is the elite of the elite… somewhere in between UFC and WWE, there was a market that was really underserved.”
The promotion, which launches August 30 in Cleveland, aims to fill the gap left for athletes who reach the top of the NCAA or Olympic ladder, only to find limited options outside of MMA or sports entertainment.
“We didn’t want to compete with UFC or WWE,” Hogan said. “But we wanted the opportunity to be as big as them.”
Execution and Funding in Place
Eric Bischoff, who helped lead WCW during its heyday, emphasized their readiness to execute.
“The reason most good ideas don’t succeed is because they’re not well-funded or can’t execute. We don’t have that issue,” Bischoff said. “We’ve got serious backing from Left Lane Capital… They’re also behind Shaun White’s snowboarding league and women’s volleyball. They believe in this.”
The league plans monthly events and is currently in talks with two major media platforms.
“I have a call with a major platform after this interview,” Bischoff added. “We’re confident we’ll land a streaming deal—possibly even cable.”
Building Stars from Real Athletes
Hogan’s role goes beyond branding. He plans to work closely with the talent and help develop the next Conor McGregor.
“I’m boots on the ground,” he said. “These amateur wrestlers—turns out they all grew up watching me. I want to help them not become characters like Doink the Clown, but organically grow into megastars.”
Bischoff echoed that storytelling will be critical to engaging broader audiences.
“We’re going to show their backstories, their failures and triumphs,” he said. “It’s not just about matches. We’re going to make people care.”
Coming out of WWE Backlash 2025, the writing on the wall was clear: John Cena is on a collision course with R-Truth. It’s possible that this feud will just be a speed bump, like Gunther’s mini-feud with Alpha Academy when he was really building toward his match with Jey Uso this past WrestleMania season—an entertaining time-filler that allows the heel to get more heat.
However, a lot of speculation also places Truth as Cena’s next WWE Championship challenger, be it for the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event, or a proper PLE this summer.
Not everyone is excited for this rivalry, but there are some real reasons for optimism. One might go so far as to R-Truth is the perfect challenger for a heel Cena as champion at this moment.
R-Truth Can Keep The Fans Against John Cena
John Cena turning heel was a shock and has freshened up his character for the first time in quite a while. There’s a real challenge to keeping fans against Cena, though. After all, the passage of time has seen the seventeen-time champion transition from wildly polarizing to near-universally respected as a hardworking veteran. More to the point, now there’s an oddball combination of fans attached to Cena for nostalgia purposes and fans all too eager to cheer him not in spite of, but because of his heel turn.
WWE reckoned with this challenge at WrestleMania 41 where, despite all kayfabe indicators that fans should get behind Cody Rhodes, The American Nightmare—at absolute best—had the crowd 60-40 behind him. From there, even with a fellow nostaltic face and hometown hero Randy Orton against him at Backlash, fans couldn’t help themselves from applauding Cena, especially after their main event match.
R-Truth isn’t going to erase the problem of Cena’s organic popularity during his retirement tour. However, Truth is a veteran himself, widely respected as an all-time great comedic wrestler. No one is booing Truth, even if they don’t feel he belongs in the main event picture. As such, he’s one of the few bullet-proof babyfaces fans aren’t going to turn on in this scenario.
R-Truth Is The Embodiment Of Fans Betrayed By Their Childhood Hero
Image credit: WWE
One of the greatest points of comedic fodder for R-Truth in recent years is his persistence in claiming John Cena was his childhood hero. Never mind that Truth is five years older than Cena, started in pro wrestling two years earlier, and made his WWE main roster debut a year and a half before Cena’s. The patent absurdity of his claims is the charm and has made even callous, humor-averse wrestling fans crack a smile.
More than comedy, though, in Truth selling his Cena fanhood for years before The Champ’s heel turn, WWE has established a framework for Truth to embody every fan who felt betrayed at Elimination Chamber 2025. Though Truth is far from a child, the child-like wonder of his character allows him to represent kids as well as fans who adhere more strictly to kayfabe when they choose whom to cheer or boo. As such there are few better choices to go toe-to-toe with Cena at this moment.
R-Truth And John Cena Have A Long History
There’s a school of thought that John Cena should be working younger, fresher opponents along his farewell tour to put them over and ready the next generation of top names. That thinking has merit, and Cena likely will add some other up-and-coming opponents to his slate of final-year dance partners. However, there’s also something really satisfying about seeing him revisit his “greatest hits,” like he did in facing Randy Orton at Backlash.
Long before R-Truth started feigning he was a childhood Cena fan in recent years, Truth was a key rival for Cena in 2011. He twice challenged Cena for the WWE Championship in PLE main events, before teaming with The Miz against Cena and The Rock to headline Survivor Series. Truth and Cena don’t necessarily have any truly great matches to their names as opponents, and it was hard for fans to buy into Truth actually taking the title of Cena in his prime. Nonetheless, the feud was entertaining, highlighted by Truth’s heel turn and arriving at what was probably his highest rank in the pecking order as a world title contender in WWE.
A Great Match Probably Isn’t In The Cards For John Cena Anyway
Image credit: WWE
One of the main reasons some fans have pushed back on the idea of R-Truth vs. John Cena as a WWE Championship feud and when Cena only has a half-year left as an in-ring performer is that this combination is unlikely to produce a great match.
Cena’s career includes all-time classics with the likes of Shawn Michaels, Edge, CM Punk, and Daniel Bryan. There are, understandably, fans who want to see him add to that catalog, whether it’s in fresh matchups against the likes of Gunther or Drew McIntyre or by returning to Punk, Roman Reigns, or Seth Rollins.
However, one of the uncomfortable truths that Cena vs. Cody Rhodes laid bare at WrestleMania 41 was that Cena just might not have anymore great one-on-one matches left in him, at least in any traditional sense. Indeed, the Orton match at Backlash was better, but still not great, and had considerable assistance from ref bumps that are going to wear thin the more they recur in his matches.
Truth vs. Cena wasn’t exactly great in 2011, and four years later, with Truth north of 50 and Cena not that far behind him, there’s very little reason to think the in-ring action will be better now. Just the same, the capacity for entertainment is there, and if Cena isn’t going to have a great match anyway, isn’t it better to have an engaging and funny feud with bonus points for nostalgia?
No one will advocate for R-Truth and John Cena to stage a multi-match, PLE-headlining feud in 2025. As a change of pace and surefire source of entertainment, though, Truth is just the right guy to keep Cena’s heel run on top vital a little longer.
Hulk Hogan addressed the polarized public reception he continues to receive, speaking candidly on The Ariel Helwani Show about his relationship with the fans and media in 2025.
“They’re still nipping at my heels,” Hogan said. “I can go out and get booed in LA… The Rock gets booed, Cena gets booed. But when I get booed, there’s a whole different reaction media-wise.”
He sees the reaction—good or bad—as a sign of relevance.
“For those that are on the team and riding the train to the station, that’s great. For the haters, there’s nothing I can do except keep proving by my actions that I’m still in the game.”
Still Moving Forward
Now 71 and recovering from numerous surgeries, Hogan says the criticism doesn’t faze him.
“Even in the 80s, I was the guy everyone tried to knock off the top spot. I’ll trade that any day for being forgotten.”
“I’m just like an old scarred-up seal,” he added. “Most people relate to that. They’ve made mistakes too. I’m still here, still pushing forward.”
No Illusions About the Past
Hogan acknowledges that some of the boos are personal, not just aimed at a character.
“It’s all the above—character, professional, personal,” he said. “There are WWE guys who’ve had opinions. But when I go to New York or Chicago and the crowd cheers out of the rooftops, I’d like to hear their advice then.”
He added, “I’m not hating on anybody, brother. I’m leaning into the wind.”
Former WWE NXT standout Cora Jade, returning to her pre-WWE ring name Elayna Black, has been announced for an upcoming summer tour with Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). The tour marks her return to the independent scene following her release from WWE.
Black is set to appear at five GCW events across the United States, beginning June 20 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Additional stops include Hartford, CT (July 5), Dallas, TX (July 11), Coney Island, NY (July 19), and Rutherford, NJ (August 1).
Her return continues a trend of recently released WWE talent quickly finding high-profile opportunities on the independent circuit. The tour will stream live on TrillerTV+.
*Breaking*
ELAYNA BLACK returns to GCW for 5 big shows starting in June!
Mike “The Miz” Mizanin has been named the host of Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming reboot of the iconic competition series “American Gladiators.” The original show, which ran from 1989 to 1996, pitted amateur athletes against formidable “gladiators.”
The revamped series will feature an “all-star cast of gladiators for the modern era” and will include classic challenges like “Gauntlet,” “Hang Tough,” and “The Eliminator,” alongside new trials. The Miz, a two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion, brings his extensive television experience from shows like MTV’s “The Real World” and USA Network’s “Miz & Mrs.” to the hosting role.
I’m thrilled to announce I’m the new host of AMERICAN GLADIATORS! The 10-year-old me is screaming. Huge thanks to MGM & Amazon Prime Video for trusting me with this iconic legacy. We’re honoring the original and bringing fresh energy to a whole new generation. AG IS BACK! pic.twitter.com/tJk94agiSf
Barry Poznick, GM of MGM Alternative, praised the choice: “We’re excited to officially welcome WWE Superstar Mike ‘The Miz’ Mizanin… He’s the perfect host for the new era of this iconic franchise.” Poznick added that the U.S. reboot, combined with UK success and other ventures, signifies a “cultural revival” for Gladiators.
This new series, executive produced by John Ferraro and Daniel Calin, joins a recently launched FAST channel of the original “American Gladiators” and a live tour, signaling a major comeback for the beloved franchise with The Miz leading the charge.
