Home Blog Page 1713

Possible Reason Ronda Rousey Missed Raw Last Night

10

Despite previously being announced for all Raw shows leading up to WrestleMania, Ronda Rousey was not on Monday Night Raw last night. WWE did not release an official announcement regarding Rousey not being on the show.

Rousey did appear on the Ellen Show this morning, however. The Ellen Show films in Los Angeles and Raw was from Detroit last night.

Rousey explained to Ellen why she made the change to pro-wrestling and how she learned her “mean mug”.

Ronda Rousey on Ellen and Not Raw

It’s possible the Ellen Show reached out to Rousey and WWE last minute about the appearance. The company may have felt the Ellen appearance would bring in more mainstream media attention to WrestleMania than Rousey appearing on Raw would. That is just speculation, however.

The Ultimate Deletion & More Set For Next Week’s RAW, The Undertaker Returning?

14

The Road to WrestleMania 34 heats up on next week’s WWE RAW from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX two matches and a segment already confirmed.

Asuka will do battle with RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss in a non-title match that should see the confirmation of Nia Jax vs. Bliss for WrestleMania 34.

WWE will also air The Ultimate Deletion match next week, which was recently taped at The Hardy Compound in Cameron, NC. Bray Wyatt and Matt Hardy will go at it in what may be the end of The Great War between the two.

Next week’s RAW will also feature an appearance by WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar, according to Vince McMahon. Lesnar was once again off this week’s RAW, missing the scheduled face off with Roman Reigns, but Vince gave his word that The Beast will be back next week. As noted, Vince “temporarily suspended” Reigns with an angle on tonight’s RAW and there’s no word yet on when he will be brought back, or if he will be in Dallas next week to face off with Lesnar.

It will be interesting to see if The Undertaker returns to WWE TV on next week’s RAW in Dallas. WWE currently has John Cena advertised to appear and tonight’s RAW saw Cena issue a WrestleMania 34 challenge to The Dead Man. Taker lives in Texas.

Braun Strowman Earns WrestleMania Tag Team Title Shot, Speculation On His Partner

33

Braun Strowman won a tag team battle royal on tonight’s WWE RAW to become the new #1 contender to RAW Tag Team Champions The Bar for a title shot at WrestleMania 34. Tag teams participating in the match were The Revival, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson, Heath Slater & Rhyno, The Miztourage and Titus Worldwide.

Braun worked the contenders battle royal by himself but the speculation is that he may be put with Elias to make it Braun and Elias vs. Cesaro and Sheamus in New Orleans.

Below is the updated card for WrestleMania 34, which takes place from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans on April 8th, with John Cena vs. The Undertaker added:

WWE Universal Title Match
Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar

WWE Title Match
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. AJ Styles

Triple Threat for the WWE Intercontinental Title
Seth Rollins vs. Finn Balor vs. The Miz

RAW Women’s Title Match
TBA vs. Alexa Bliss

SmackDown Women’s Title Match
Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair

Finals of the WWE Cruiserweight Title Tournament
Cedric Alexander or Roderick Strong vs. Mustafa Ali or Drew Gulak

Handicap Match for the RAW Tag Team Titles
Braun Strowman vs. Cesaro and Sheamus

Ronda Rousey and Kurt Angle vs. Stephanie McMahon and Triple H

Fifth Annual Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal

First-Ever Fabulous Moolah Memorial Battle Royal

John Cena vs. The Undertaker

10 Takeaways From WWE RAW (3/12)

12

The March 12th, 2018 episode of WWE RAW aired live from the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI. Here are 10 takeaways from this week’s episode of WWE RAW:

Vince McMahon Temporarily Suspended Roman Reigns

reigns mcmahon

This week’s episode of WWE RAW kicked off with Kurt Angle coming down to the ring. Angle said he was excited to compete with Ronda Rousey against Triple H and Stephanie McMahon at WrestleMania. Angle said that he feels sorry for what Ronda is going to do to Stephanie, but he wont be sorry for what he is going to Triple H.

RAW GM Kurt Angle claimed that Brock Lesnar wasn’t going to be here tonight. Roman Reigns’ music hit and Roman made his way towards the ring. Reigns stated that he wasn’t surprised that Lesnar didn’t show up. Roman said that Lesnar doesn’t have any respect for the fans and that Brock Lesnar didn’t show up for work. Reigns noted that there will be no repercussions for Lesnar because Brock is “Vince’s boy”. Roman stated that the he just walked by Vince McMahon and he didn’t even bother to tell him what was going on.

Reigns claimed that he will not be disrespected by Vince McMahon. Reigns stormed backstage and approached Shane and Vince. Vince said that they will talk in his office as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Renee Young was standing by Vince McMahon’s office. Roman Reigns exited and Renee tried to ask him a question but Reigns walked by. Vince McMahon stated that Brock Lesnar is his own man. Vince said that he reminded Reigns of an expression that his cousin The Rock used to say, which is “know your role and shut your mouth”. McMahon added that Lesnar probably doesn’t respect the WWE Universe and that Lesnar has earned most of those privileges. Vince McMahon assured everyone that Brock Lesnar will be on RAW next week and gave his word. Vince then announced that Roman Reigns has temporarily suspended.

Opinion: I laughed when Roman Reigns said that Brock Lesnar is Vince’s boy. I don’t think I’ve ever seen WWE bend over backwards over and over again to try and get a Superstar over like they have for Roman Reigns. This storyline is just another example of that. I do hope that this angle actually works on some people and they get behind Roman. It will not change the minds of people that have been watching the WWE product for some time, but might work on new viewers that check back in around WrestleMania season.

I’d also like to give some credit to Reigns. His promos have been solid during this angle. I just know that I’m never going to view Reigns how WWE wants me to and I think that is the case for most fans that are aggravated with WWE’s product. This really is the only way to go with this feud. It will give Reigns the best possible chance of getting cheered at WrestleMania 34.

Bayley Let Sasha Banks Get Beatdown

sasha banks deville

Sasha Banks faced Sonya Deville tonight on RAW. Bayley reluctantly accompanied Sasha Banks to the ring as Mandy Rose and Paige of Absolution were also ringside. Banks controlled the match early and launched Deville out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Sonya had Sasha in a submission hold in the middle of the ring. Banks broke free but Deville connected with a Spinebuster for a two count. Sonya followed it up with a running knee for another two count. Banks finally fought back and kneed Deville in the face. Mandy Rose hopped up on the ring apron and Bayley dragged her down. Sasha then locked Deville in the Bank Statement for the submission victory.

After the match, Bayley didn’t get into the ring. Instead, she walked away with her head down as Sasha Banks looked confused in the ring. Absolution hopped up on the ring apron and circled Banks. Sasha got some punches in but Mandy Rose leveled her with a Clothesline. Rose and Deville beatdown Banks and Bayley didn’t come down to the ring to help.

Opinion: I’m not sure who I’m supposed to side with right now. As of now, Sasha Banks and Bayley are both faces. Banks got beatdown by heels tonight and Bayley let it happen. I’m sure Sasha Banks will wind up being the hell, but I would have liked to see some more storyline progression tonight.

The Miz Successfully Caused Tension Between Rollins & Balor

the miz raw 3 12 2

The Miz came down to the ring for an episode of Miz TV. The Miz boasted about elevating the careers of Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel. The Miz then vowed to defeat both Seth Rollins and Finn Balor at WrestleMania 34 and to become the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion of all time. Miz then introduced Seth Rollins as his first guest.

Rollins came down to the ring and took a seat. The Miz then introduced Finn Balor as his second guest on Miz TV. Balor took a seat and Miz sat in the middle and noted that both Rollins and Balor looked very comfortable. The Miz claimed that he and Rollins are the workhorses of the WWE. The Miz stated that Balor is always in Rollins’ way.

Seth said that everybody knew what The Miz was trying to do. Rollins added that is a Triple Threat match at WrestleMania and told Miz to deal with it. The Miz said that Balor was “the man in bingo halls” and then complimented Balor on becoming the first Universal Champion. The Miz stated that it actually should just be a one-on-one match against Finn for the IC Title. Balor said that he literally just tried the same technique with Rollins and that it wouldn’t work on him either.

The Miz stated that Rollins resents Balor for defeating him for the Universal Championship. The Miz claimed that Balor shouldn’t trust Rollins because he always stabs people in the back and brought up Rollins betraying The Shield. Seth interrupted and told The Miz to shut up and the crowd cheered. Rollins noted that The Miz doesn’t need to fire them up because it is an IC Title at WrestleMania and that they are already fired up.

Rollins vowed to win the title at WrestleMania 34 and told Balor that he doesn’t have a chance. Finn asked Rollins what happened the last time they had a championship match, in reference to Balor defeating him for the Universal Championship. Balor bragged about beating Seth with one arm. Rollins claimed that he doesn’t live in the past and stated that he was going to stomp Finn’s head into the mat in four weeks to become the new Intercontinental Champion.

Balor got up and said that they don’t have to wait four weeks to fight. Rollins and Balor had a stare down as The Miz grinned in the middle of them. Rollins and Balor turned their attention towards The Miz who tried to run away. Finn Clotheslined The Miz out of the ring and turned around into a right hand from Seth. Rollins pointed at the WrestleMania sign and then walked backstage as The Miz was laughing on the entrance ramp.

Opinion: I’m looking forward to this match at WrestleMania 34. The Miz is a great hell, but I think it is time for him to drop the title. The Miz rarely wins a match without outside interference and it is getting a little old. I would like to see Balor win the title at WrestleMania 34. He seems to be the Superstar that needs the title the most. Rollins should make his way back to the Universal Championship picture following WrestleMania 34.

The Entire RAW Tag Division Attacked The Bar

the bar raw 3 12

Sheamus and Cesaro faced The Miztourage tonight on RAW. If Dallas and Axel won the match, they would face The Bar for the RAW Tag Team Championships at WrestleMania 34. Dallas and Axel attacked Sheamus and Cesaro before the match started. Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson came down to the ring and attacked Sheamus and Cesaro as well.

Gallows and Anderson joined the party and joined the brawl. Sheamus and Cesaro retreated up the entrance ramp but were greeted by Titus Worldwide and Rhyno & Slater. The entire RAW tag division was in the ring and they all were beating down Sheamus and Cesaro.

Cesaro jumped out of the ring and escaped through the crowd. Sheamus escaped up the entrance ramp and made his way backstage as the rest of the RAW tag division stood tall in the ring.

Sheamus and Cesaro approached RAW GM Kurt Angle backstage later on the show and complained about being attacked by the entire division. Sheamus and Cesaro stated that they have heard rumors of a Superstar Shake-Up following WrestleMania and demanded to be traded right to SmackDown right now because they know when they are not wanted. Kurt Angle said that there is no way he is trading them and announced a RAW Tag Team Battle Royal tonight.

Opinion: My first thought when the entire RAW tag division was in the ring was that the division is weak. There are some good teams in there, but they never connected with the crowd or WWE has seemingly given up on them. The Superstar Shake-Up cannot come soon enough, as some of the teams in the division need a fresh start on SmackDown. I’m not even sure too many Superstars can succeed on SmackDown now, as creative on Tuesday nights has been atrocious. There is no team on the current RAW roster that I would be excited to see face Sheamus & Cesaro at WrestleMania 34. I would have said The Revival before last week, but then they lost to The Bar.

John Cena Challenged The Undertaker To A Match At WrestleMania 34

cena raw 3 12

John Cena came down to the ring and stated that he has finally found his road to WrestleMania. Cena said that he was brave enough to face the truth and that he has failed at his opportunities on both RAW and SmackDown.

The crowd started to chant “Undertaker!” and Cena said that was very kind of the crowd and said that he hoped that the folks backstage were listening. Cena announced that he will not contribute to WrestleMania this year. A brief cheer broke out before the crowd started chanting “no!”.

Cena stated that he was still going to be at WrestleMania, but his road to WrestleMania was just like the fans. John said that he was going to WrestleMania as a fan and that the WWE Universe is the most important part of WrestleMania. John said that he is going fired up just like the fans and got out of the ring and joined the crowd. Cena took a sip of a fan’s beer and shouted “this is awesome!”. Cena then started a “this is awesome!” chant in the crowd. Cena tried to start a “lets go Roman!” chant and the entire crowd booed.

John started a “lets go Cena!” and the crowd responded with “Cena sucks!”. Cena said that that the only way the crowd is going to hear that chant at WrestleMania is if he did the thing he wasn’t supposed to do. Cena then said “screw it!” and challenged The Undertaker to a match at WrestleMania. The entire crowd chanted “yes!”. Cena noted that he was told that this match was impossible and that he never asked why.

Cena once again challenged The Undertaker to match at WrestleMania and said it a few more times to see if his microphone would cut out. It didn’t and Cena noted that it must be The Undertaker that is preventing this match from happening. Cena addressed The Undertaker and told him to get over his own ego. Cena said that the difference between The Undertaker and him is that when he fails he gets back up. Cena claimed that when The Undertaker fails, he hides because he is embarassed.

Cena told The Undertaker to stop hiding behind his lame excuses. Cena brought up The Undertaker posting workout videos on his wife’s Instagram. Cena called The Undertaker a “self centered egomaniac”. John asked the crowd if they wanted to see The Undertaker kick his at WrestleMania and Tombstone him in front of 75,000 people at WrestleMania. The crowd chanted “yes!” and Cena said that he would like to see The Undertaker try it. Cena stated that he is either going to WrestleMania as a fan or as The Undertaker’s opponent. Cena added that the ball is now in Taker’s court and said that if he was The Undertaker he would want one more match.

Opinion: I’m down for a match between John Cena and The Undertaker at WrestleMania 34. I am concerned about how good of a match it will be, as I thought The Undertaker looked terrible at WrestleMania 33 against Roman Reigns. I hope that his health allows him to put on a much better match this year. Cena is still one of the best promos in wWE and has a way of getting whatever reaction he wants from the crowd. This promo was awesome and I thought the interaction with the fan in the crowd was hilarious. I also enjoyed Cena jokingly trying to get the crowd to cheer for Reigns and they immediately responded by booing.

Braun Strowman Guaranteed That Somebody Is Going To “Get These Hands” At WrestleMania 34

strowman
Photo Credit: WWE.com

Elias came down to the ring with a neck brace on after getting his ass kicked by Braun Strowman last week. Elias said that he has one question for everyone tonight and started strumming his guitar. Elias paused and said that this is your fault. Elias put his guitar on his stool and started walking away.

Elias limped up the entrance ramp as Braun Strowman was shown backstage. Strowman bragged about dropping a piano on Elias last week and noted that it was crazy that he doesn’t have a match at WrestleMania. Braun Strowman guaranteed that somebody is going to “get these hands” at WrestleMania.

Opinion: I’ve ranted about how Strowman should have a marquee match at WrestleMania for weeks now. I’ll take a break from that to complain about WWE’s new obsession with text on the screen during backstage promos. It is cartoonish and annoying as hell. I hope they get rid of it soon because I haven’t come across one person that likes it.

Finn Balor Outsmarted Seth Rollins

balor rollins raw 3 12

Finn Balor faced Seth Rollins tonight on RAW. Intercontinental Champion The Miz was shown backstage watching the match. Rollins controlled the match early and knocked Balor to the canvas with a knee to the face. Rollins connected with a chop and then booted Finn in the back. Seth beatdown Balor in the corner. Finn battled back and Dropkicked Rollins out of the ring. Balor booted Rollins in the shoulder from the ring apron as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Rollins was back in control and had Balor in a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring. Balor battled to his feet for a moment but Seth quickly wrestled him back down to the mat while maintaining the hold. Finn connected with a couple of jabs to the midsection to break the hold but Rollins quickly knocked him back down. Rollins rolled out of the ring and connected with a running knee to Balor’s head. Seth got back in the ring and went for the cover but Finn kicked out at two.

Seth applied the Chin Lock once again as The Miz was shown again backstage watching the match. Balor broke free and sent Rollins to the corner. Seth caught Finn with a boot but Balor responded with an Enziguri. Balor unloaded a few punches but Seth then connected with an Enziguri of his own.

Finn connected with a Slingblade and then charged at Rollins but Seth was ready and booted Balor in the face for a two count. Seth knocked Balor to the corner and connected with a couple of forearms. Rollins went for a third but Balor escaped to the ring apron and kicked Seth in the side of the head. Rollins climbed up to the top but Seth got back up and joined him there. Seth delivered a Superplex to Balor but Finn rolled through and rolled up Rollins for the victory. Rollins was trying to roll through for the Falcon Arrow but Finn was able to counter into a roll-up. After the match, Rollins was pissed off and stormed up the entrance ramp as Balor laughed in the ring.

Opinion: Rollins and Balor work great together in the ring. They are easily two of the best in-ring performers in WWE right now. Finn has been undervalued on RAW and I hope he gets to have a WrestleMania moment next month. Tonight’s match got me even more pumped for the IC Title match at WrestleMania 34.

Asuka Is Still Undefeated, Will Face Alexa Bliss Next Week

Asuka
Photo Credit: WWE.com

Asuka came down to the ring to address showing up at Fastlane last night to challenge Charlotte for the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 34.

Charly Caruso interviewed Asuka in the ring as photos were shown on the screen of Asuka’s appearance last night at Fastlane. Caruso asked why Asuka chose to face Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania. RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss immediately interrupted and came down to the ring with Mickie James.

Bliss once again mocked Asuka’s english and said that talking wasn’t really her strong suit. Alexa stated that Asuka is a fierce competitor and very smart. Bliss claimed that Asuka didn’t want to risk giving up her undefeated streak in a match against Bliss at WrestleMania. Alexa boasted about winning the Elimination Chamber match a few weeks ago and that scared Asuka.

Alexa continued to belittle Asuka and called it “smart strategy” to not enter a match she can’t win. Asuka interrupted and said “to beat the woman you’ve got to beat the woman” and that she wanted to face the best champion in WWE. Bliss once again claimed that Asuka chose the weaker champion. Asuka challenged Bliss to a match right now. Bliss declined and said that Asuka will instead face “this woman” and pointed to the entrance ramp. Nobody showed up and Mickie James delivered a cheap shot to Asuka. Mickie then leaned over Asuka and said that she was ready for her as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Asuka was in control of the match. Asuka knocked Mickie out of the ring and then leveled her with a Dropkick. Asuka brought Mickie back into the ring but Mickie immediately rolled out of the ring again. Mickie tried to escape over the barricade but Asuka grabbed her and slung her into the ring post. Asuka went for a kick but Mickie got out of the way and Asuka grabbed her leg in pain. Mickie got back in the ring and the referee started counting.

Asuka got into the ring to break up the count and Mickie James immediately targeted her attack on Asuka’s injured leg. Mickie James connected with an awesome Sunset Flip Powerbomb for a two count. Mickie went for the Mick Kick but Asuka countered it into the Asuka Lock for the submission victory. After the match, Alexa Bliss stormed up the entrance ramp and left Mickie James behind.

It was also announced that Asuka will appear on SmackDown tomorrow night.

Opinion: Asuka and Mickie James had a solid match tonight. The RAW announcers were playing up the fact that Asuka injured her leg tonight and Charlotte may be able to take advantage of that by locking in the Figure Eight at WrestleMania 34. I like the idea of Asuka heading into WrestleMania as less than 100% to provide some more doubt that she will leave WrestleMania as the SmackDown Women’s Champion. I don’t like the fact that Asuka is facing Alexa Bliss next week. I cannot stand when WWE has their champions lose on television and they do it all the time.

Nia Jax Learned How Alexa Bliss Really Felt About Her

alexa bliss nia jax

Alexa Bliss went backstage and approached Nia Jax. Bliss asked where Nia was when she called for her and Nia stated that Angle told her to hold back because she has a match tonight. Bliss brought up Nia Jax’s embarrassing loss to Asuka last week and said that she loved Nia Jax. Nia said that she loved Alexa too. Bliss asked for Nia’s word that she will be in her corner next week when she goes against Asuka next week and Nia stated that she would be there.

Nia Jax faced a jobber named Joan King and won the match easily. Alexa Bliss and Mickie James were shown backstage having a conversation. Bliss claimed that she was being nice when she said Nia Jax was an outcast her entire life. Alexa said that Nia Jax looked like Shrek walking through the airport. Alexa told Mickie that she uses Nia because she is a vulnerable human being. Bliss claimed that she has Nia in the palm of her hand and that she is easily manipulated. Bliss added that Nia is just as dumb as she is big. Alexa claimed that Nia knows that she would be nothing without her. Bliss stated that they will use Nia next week to do all the dirty work and then take all the glory as usual.

Charly Caruso showed up and informed Bliss that everyone has just heard everything Mickie and Alexa just said. Nia Jax was then shown slowly walking up the entrance ramp. Nia wiped away a tear and then stormed backstage. Alexa Bliss and Mickie James ran away as Nia Jax entered the room. Nia started throwing suitcases around and Charly informed her that they ran away. Nia screamed and continued to destroy the room.

Opinion: I thought this was great. Bliss’ on-screen character is so manipulative and detestable, it makes for great television. Her mistake tonight will most likely lead to her getting her ass kicked at the biggest PPV of the year. Nia Jax has been overlooked on the main roster and I’m looking forward to her getting her WrestleMania moment next month.

Braun Strowman Won The Tag Team Battle Royal

strowman tag team battle royal

The Battle Royal to determine the challengers for the RAW Tag Team Championships at WrestleMania 34 was the main event tonight on RAW. Braun Strowman interrupted and made his way down to the ring. Strowman stared everyone down and shouted at the referee to ring the bell.

Strowman immediately eliminated Apollo and then slammed Heath Slater to the canvas. Strowman chased Slater around the ring and drove him into the barricade. Sheamus and Cesaro joined commentary for the match and had no idea what was going on because Strowman is an individual and not a tag team. Strowman then eliminated Heath Slater from the match.

The rest of the Superstars attacked Strowman and tried to eliminate him. The Revival broke away and eliminated Rhyno. Strowman once again cleared the ring as everyone rolled under the bottom rope. Titus O’Neil got in the ring to challenge Braun Strowman. Titus thought better of it and got back out of the ring as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Strowman was knocked through the second rope and was not eliminated. Strowman was then driven into the steel steps by The Revival and The Miztourage. The two teams then picked up the stairs and charged at Strowman and knocked him into the timekeeper’s area.

Back in the ring, Titus O’Neil started launching people all over the ring. The Miztourage eliminated The Revival. Braun Strowman got into the ring and eliminated Titus O’Neil. Strowman then eliminated Gallows and The Miztourage tried to eliminate Braun from behind. Strowman planted Dallas and Axel with a Running Powerslam. Braun then eliminated both members of The Miztourage. Strowman then launched Karl Anderson over the top rope to win the Battle Royal. Sheamus and Cesaro looked concerned on the entrance ramp as Strowman posed in the ring.

Opinion: Well, the entire RAW tag team division is now officially buried. It is stunning how far The Revival have fallen. They were eliminated by The Miztourage tonight. I guess we will get an explanation next week from RAW GM Kurt Angle as to what is going happen. Strowman will either have to get a tag partner or become the RAW Tag Team Champions as an individual. Which sounds absolutely ridiculous so I doubt that will happen. It was fun watching Strowman dominate, but it just speaks to the poor condition the RAW tag division is in right now.

What did you think of this week’s episode of RAW? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

WrestleMania: Moolah Battle Royal Announced, Updated Card

16

WWE announced on Monday’s RAW that the first-ever Fabulous Moolah Memorial Battle Royal will take place at WrestleMania 34. The match will feature women from RAW, SmackDown and NXT.

WWE’s decision to honor Moolah and tie her to the company’s Women’s movement has drawn strong criticism on social media. There have been long standing and widespread allegations about Moolah’s conduct in the wrestling industry as a trainer and manager of female wrestlers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4upD8cJtsZ8

Here is the updated card for WrestleMania 34, which takes place on Sunday, April 8th from New Orleans, LA at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

WWE Universal Title Match
Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar (c)

WWE Title Match
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. AJ Styles (c)

Olympians vs. The Authority
Ronda Rousey and Kurt Angle vs. Stephanie McMahon and Triple H

Triple Threat for the WWE Intercontinental Title
Seth Rollins vs. Finn Balor vs. The Miz (c)

SmackDown Women’s Title Match
Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair (c)

RAW Women’s Title Match
Alexa Bliss (c) vs. TBA

Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals
Cedric Alexander or Roderick Strong vs. Mustafa Ali or Drew Gulak

First-Ever Fabulous Moolah Memorial Battle Royal

VIDEO: John Cena Blasts The Undertaker, Issues WrestleMania Challenge

17

It looks like John Cena vs. The Undertaker is finally happening at WrestleMania 34, which takes place on April 8th in New Orleans.

Cena appeared on tonight’s RAW in Detroit to officially challenge The Dead Man to the match. Cena said only one person is stopping the match from happening and that is Taker. Cena went on to rip into Taker, calling him self-centered and an egomaniac. Cena also said Taker isn’t washed up and isn’t broken down because if he was, he wouldn’t be posting workout clips to his wife’s Instagram account. Cena stated that he will be going to WrestleMania this year as a fan or as Taker’s opponent. Cena ended the promo by telling Taker that the ball is in his court but he should get over his ego and have just one more match.

No word yet on when Taker might return to WWE TV to answer the challenge but the match is likely happening if they went this far with the tease. Taker made a brief throw-away appearance back at the RAW 25th Anniversary show in January but he has not wrestled since losing to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 33 in 2017.

Below are photos and videos from tonight’s segment with Cena:

Vince McMahon “Suspends” Roman Reigns In RAW Angle

8

Vince McMahon temporarily suspended Roman Reigns in the storylines during a heated opening segment on Monday’s WWE RAW in Detroit. No word yet on when Reigns will be brought back from the storyline suspension but we will keep you updated.

This week’s RAW kicked off with General Manager Kurt Angle announcing that WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar was not there for his in-ring meeting with Reigns, his second RAW no-show during WrestleMania 34 Season. Angle did not have a solid reason as to why Lesnar wasn’t there tonight, which brought Reigns out. Reigns blamed Vince, saying Lesnar is Vince’s “boy” and saying being disrespected by Lesnar is one thing but he will not be disrespected by Vince. Reigns then marched into the Gorilla Position backstage and confronted Vince. RAW then went to commercial and came back to Renee Young outside of Vince’s office.

Reigns walked out and was in no mood to speak but Vince made it clear that Brock is not his boy or Paul Heyman’s boy, he’s nobody’s boy but he is a man, his own man. Vince admitted that Lesnar has privileges but said he believes Brock has earned those privileges. Vince also acknowledged that people often take advantage of what’s given to them and Brock may have gone too far now. Vince then gave his word that Brock would be here on next week’s RAW in Dallas and promised he would face Reigns in the WrestleMania 34 main event. Vince then temporarily suspended Reigns for his previous behavior.

We’ve noted several times how WWE’s goal for the Reigns vs. Lesnar build is to get Reigns cheered by fans, which is something that isn’t always guaranteed, which would hopefully lead to a positive reaction when he wins the title at WrestleMania. WWE officials also want the build to Reigns vs. Lesnar to come across like a shoot as much as possible.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (3/12)

1,367

The March 12th, 2018 edition of WWE RAW aired live from the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI.

– RAW opens up with show GM Kurt Angle coming down to the ring to kick off the night right away. He talks about his upcoming mixed tag match with Ronda Rousey against Kurt Angle and Triple H. He says he won’t be sorry for what he does to Triple H at ‘Mania. He moves on to the topic of the Universal Title, and says that Brock Lesnar didn’t show up tonight — maybe because he isn’t feeling well, or had travel issues, or just didn’t feel like it. Roman Reigns comes out to interrupt.

Reigns walks down to the ring and cuts a promo trashing Lesnar for not showing up to work again. He says if anyone else, like Kurt, him, or the fans, didn’t show up for work — they’d be fired. He says Brock is “Vince’s boy,” and this is Vince’s fault. He tells Kurt he knows he’s just the middle man here, and Vince is in charge. Reigns says he walked by Vince in the back, and Vince didn’t have the courtesy or respect to tell him what’s going on tonight. Reigns says it’s one thing to be disrespected by Vince McMahon.

Reigns heads to the back and the camera follows him behind the curtain to the gorilla position. Reigns walks right over to Vince, who is at a table with the headset on. Shane McMahon is sitting next to Vince, and he gets between Vince and Reigns. Reigns gets in Vince’s face, and Vince says to go to commercials so they can talk in private.

– We see a video package looking at Ronda Rousey’s road to WrestleMania.

– We go to Renee Young who says things have settled down between Vince and Reigns. Reigns walks out of Vince’s office, but ignores Renee n the way out. Vince walks out and tells Renee that Brock Lesnar is not “his boy,” he’s his own man. Vince says he didn’t intend to disrespect Roman, but he gave it to him straight. He reminded Roman of a phrase that his cousin The Rock used to say – “know your role and shut your mouth.” Vince says Brock has special privileges, but he’s earned them, and he’s motivated by competition in the ring and the octagon. Vince assures that next week Brock Lesnar will be in the house, and Lesnar will defend the Universal Title against Reigns at WrestleMania. He adds that due to what just happened, Roman Reigns is temporarily suspended. Vince heads back into his office.

Sasha Banks vs. Sonya Deville: Bayley and Absolution are all at ringside. The bell sounds and the opening minutes are evenly matched until Sasha hits a series of dropkicks. She hits Sonya again, then throws her out of the ring. Back in the ring, Sonya hits a series of strikes and mounts a comeback. Deville works on keeping The Boss grounded on the mat now. The other Absolution members look to interfere, but Bayley chases them off. Sasha fires up and hits the backstabber, then the Banks Statement for the win after a short match.

Winner: Sasha Banks

– After the bell, Absolution beats down Sasha. Bayley appears to have left the ringside arena and she didn’t return to help during the post-match beat-down.

– We see a video package looking at Kid Rock’s involvement in WWE, and announcing his Hall o Fame induction this year. There’s also a video looking at Asuka challenging Charlotte at WrestleMania.

– The Miz comes down to the ring next for Miz TV. He informs us that Dallas and Axel aren’t here because they’re preparing for their match later. He then introduces his guests Seth Rollins and Finn Balor, who each make their entrances next. They all sit down, and Miz starts antagonizing Rollins and Balor. The Miz tries to turn Balor and Rollins against each other and get them fighting, but Balor and Rollins don’t bite. Balor and Rollins do finally get up and get in each other’s faces, but then they turn their attention to The Miz. Balor and Rollins take turns delivering right hands to The Miz, then Balor clotheslines Miz to the outside. Balor yells at Miz, then turns around into a cheap shot from Rollins. Rollins walks off with Balor and Miz both laid out.

– During the commercial break, Kurt Angle books a singles match between Seth Rollins and Finn Balor tonight.

– Sheamus and Cesaro are down to the ring next. They have issued an open challenge to anyone who wanted to face them at WrestleMania, and Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel appear to have accepted. The Miztourage attacks The Bar from behind before the match starts, and beats them down around ringside. The Bar regroups at ringside, then they get fired up and head back in the ring. The Bar starts brawling with The Miztourage in the ring, but then The Revival runs down and starts brawling them too. Gallows and Anderson run down next and join the fight. Sheaus and Cesaro fight out of the ringside area and head up the ramp, but then Titus Worldwide, Slater and Rhyno come down and the brawl reignites. All of the teams start fighting in the ring until Sheamus and Cesaro escape again and make their exits.

– Michael Cole informs us that a “devastated” John Cena is up next to discuss his lack of a WrestleMania match.

– John Cena comes down to the ring and gets on the mic. Cena says he gave 100% last night at Fastlane, but couldn’t get the job done. Cena brings up WrestleMania and the crowd starts chanting for Undertaker, and Cena says he hopes the people backstage hear that. Cena says he won’t be contributing to WrestleMania this year, but he will be there. Cena says his road to WrestleMania is now the same as anyone else’s, because he’s going as a fan. Cena talks about the WWE Universe being important to WrestleMania, and says he’s going to the show to have fun, and may end up sitting next to anyone who goes. Cena jumps the fan barricade and gets in the middle of some fans, and says he could end up sitting next to any of them at WrestleMania. Cena joins in one some fan chants. He gets back in the ring and tells the fans to get their “Cena sucks” chants out of their systems, since he won’t be there. Cena says he could do something right now that he’s not supposed to do, and it could change his road to WrestleMania. Cena says he’s going to do it — and he looks in the camera and challenges The Undertaker to a match at WrestleMania. He says he doesn’t know if the WWE executives have a problem with the match, so he repeats the challenge a few times to see if they cut his mic off. Cena says it’s not WWE executives preventing the match – it’s The Undertaker. Cena tells The Undertaker to get over his own ego, and to stop hiding his head in the sand. Cena says Undertaker is hiding behind lame excuses, and calls him a conceited egomaniac. Cena says the fans want the match, and the ball is in Undertaker’s court. Cens says if he was Undertaker he’d want one more match, then he heads to the back.

– The Bar confronts Kurt Angle backstage and says what happened to them tonight was totally uncalled for. Angle thinks they brought it on themselves because they were trashing all the other tag teams on Twitter. The Bar says they hear rumors of a Superstar Shake-Up after WrestleMania, but they want to be traded now because they think they’re being treated unfairly. Angle says he’s not trading them, and there will be a tag team battle royal tonight to determine their WrestleMania opponents.

– We see a replay from last week of Braun Strowman beating down Elias.

– Elias is out to the ring next for a song. Elias has a neck brace on, and apparently due to his injuries he gets up and leaves before he starts singing. Elias says this is all the fans’ fault, and he heads up the ramp to the back.

– We see a pre-taped promo from Braun Strowman where he talks about destroying Elias last week and slamming the piano on him. Strowman complains about not having a WrestleMania match yet, but he’s not going to sit around, he’s going to make his own path of destruction to ‘Mania.

Finn Balor vs. Seth Rollins: The Miz is shown watching on a monitor backstage as Rollins and Balor lock up in the opening moments. They trade holds on the mat until Balor drops Rollins with a right hand. Rollins dodges a shot and fires back with an elbow to the face. Rollins follows up with chops and a kick. Rollins stomps Balor down and then beats on him in the corner. More chops from Rollins. Balor hits a dropkick, then he kicks Rollins out of the ring to the floor. Balor kicks Rollins from the apron, and Rollins is now selling a shoulder injury. Back in the ring, Rollins fights back and drops Balor with a headbutt. Rollins follows up with a running knee to the face on the apron for a two count. Balor comes back with some chops, and looks for a reverse DDT but Rollins escapes. Balor and Rollins trade strikes to the face in the middle of the ring. Balor hits a Pele kick, then Rollins hits a spinning heel kick, and both men are down. Rollins with another kick and he looks for the curb stomp, but Balor escapes. Balor drops Rollins and stomps on him, then hits the sling blade. Balor charges and Rollins stops him with a boot to the face for a two count. Rollins misses a shot in the corner and Balor drops him. Balor goes up top, but Rollins runs up and looks for a superplex. Balor knocks him down, but Rollins comes right back up. Rollins hits the superplex, but when he goes to roll through for a Falcon Arrow, Balor hooks his leg for an inside cradle. Balor gets the three count, and Rollins can’t believe it.

Winner: Finn Balor

– Rollins is not happy, and he storms off after the match before Balor leaves.

– We see a video package announcing the Fabolous Moolah Memorial Battle Royal for women at WrestleMania.

– There’s another video package looking back at the entire history between Ronda Rousey, Stephanie McMahon, Triple H and Kurt Angle leading to their WrestleMania tag match.

– Asuka comes out to teh ring next for an in-ring interview. Before she can get started, Alexa Bliss and Mickie James come out to interrupt. Alexa says Asuka’s english isn’t very good, so Alexa will explain why Asuka changed her WrestleMAnia opponent. Alexa says Asuka is scared to face Alexa because she knows she’ll break Asuka’s winning streak. Alexa tells Asuka she knows she can’t beat her, and it’s cowardly to back out. Asuka says she chose Charlotte because “to be the women you’ve got to beat the woman,” and she wants to face the ebst in WWE, which is Charlotte. Asuka ends up challenging Alexa to a match tonight, but Alexa says instead she gets “this woman,” then points to the stage. No one comes out, so Alexa and Mickie cheap-shot Asuka and beat her down together.

Mickie James vs. Asuka: This gets made a match dring the commercial break, and it’s all Mickie in the opening moments as she beats down Asuka. Asuka finally comes back with a flying hip attack, then she puts the boots to Mickie. Mickie rolls outside for a breather, and Asuka kicks her from the apron. Mickie tries to escape over the barricade, but Asuka grabs her and throws her into the ring post. Asuka goes for a kick, but Mickie ducks and Asuka kicks the ring post. Asuka is now selling a leg injury from the kick. Asuka gets back in the ring, and Mickie immediately starts working over the bad leg. Mickie looks for a reverse DDT, but Asuka escapes and hits a kick to the head. It sounds like there’s a “Rusev Day” chant in the crowd. Asuka hits a splash in the corner, then a knee to the face for a two count. Mickie continues going to Asuka’s bad leg. Mickie goes up top and Asuka follows, which leads to Mickie hitting a sunset flip powerbomb for a two count. Mickie goes for a kick, but Asuka ducks and puts on the Asuka Lock. Mickie taps out for the finish. Alexa leaves ringside and heads to the back as soon as the bell rings.

Winner: Asuka

– Alexa walks into Nia Jax’s locker room and asks her why she didn’t come out to back them up against Asuka. Nia says Kurt told her not to go out because she has a match coming up. Alexa says Nia is her best friend and she loves her, and Nia says she loves her too, and they hug. Alexa says she needs Nia’s word that she’ll have her back in taking out Asuka, and Nia agrees.

Nia Jax vs. A jobber: The opening bell sounds and Nia’s opponent wants no part of her. Nia throws her across the ring then hits an elbow drop. Nia follows up with the Samoan Drop for the three count after a short squash match .

Winner: Nia Jax

– After the match, the big screen turns on and we see Alexa Bliss and Mickie James in the locker room trashing Nia. They make fun of Nia’s weight and Alexa says she uses Nia because she’s a vulnerable person. Alexa says Nia will be right where she wants her next week, because she’s easy to manipulate. They continue to trash Nia over and over. Charly Caruso walks in the locker room and informs them that they have been on camera this whole time. Alexa and Mickie make their escape out of the arena. Nia heads to the back and is not happy. Nia walks in the locker room and starts throwing everything and asking where Alexa is. Nia trashes the room and screams, then walks off.

– Corey Graves introduces a video package looking at the “great war” between Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt. We see footage from The Hardy Compound with Matt’s family including Senor Benjamin and the drone. We then go to Bray Wyatt in a dark room, who cuts a promo about Matt Hardy being a liar and a fool.

– Kurt Angle is shown backstage, saying to himself “I knew Bray was crazy, but what the hell happened to Matt.” Kurt Angle then appoints a referee to the match at the Hardy Compound. The referee asks if he did something wrong to deserve this, but Angle says he just needs someone there to make sure they leave the compound in one piece.

– We see replays of the exchange between Vince McMahon and Roman Reigns earlier tonight.

Tag Team Battle Royal: The Bar joins the commentary table for this one. Before the opening bell sounds, Braun Strowman comes out and marches down to the ring. Strowman yells at the ref to ring the bell, and the ref rings it. Strowman immediately eliminates Crews, then everyone starts brawling in the ring. Strowman and Slater go at it, and Slader goes under the bottom rope to escape him. Strowman follows him outside and beats him down at ringside before throwing Slater back in the ring. Strowman then throws Slater over the top rope for the elimination. The rest of the participants of the match now gang up on Strowman and try to eliminate him. The Revival breaks off and eliminates Rhyno. Strowman starts cleaning house, and all the wrestlers roll out under the bottom rope for breathers. Titus comes in and challenges Strowman, but decides against it and leaves the ring to consult with the other wrestlers at ringside. All the other wrestlers get back in the ring and gang up on Strowman until he shoves them all off. Gallows, Anderson and Titus all put the boots to Strowman, and Strowman falls outside through the middle ropes. The Miztourage and The Revival beat down Strowman at ringside wih the steel ring steps. Titus starts cleaning house in the ring until the Miztourage double teams him. The Miztourage and The Revival start going at it now in the ring, and they eliminate The Revival. Strowman gets back in the ring and eliminates Titus. Gallows hits some kicks to the face of Strowman, but Strowman comes back with a clothesline to eliminate Gallows. The Miztourage tries to eliminate Strowman, but Strowman decks them both and hits powerslams on each of them. Strowman eliminates The Miztourage. Anderson hits a series of kicks to Strowman, but Strowman catches one and slams him down. Strowman picks up Anderson, yells that he’s going to WrestleMania, then he throws Anderson to the outside onto the other wrestlers at ringside. Strowman raises his hands to celebrate the win as The Bar looks on from the commentary table with concern. Strowman looks at the WrestleMania sign, and then at The Bar, as Strowman is now supposedly the #1 contender for the The Bar’s Tag Team Titles. Strowman gets on the corner and celebrates as RAW goes off the air.

Pro Wrestling NOAH Star Leaves Company, Has Sights Set on WWE

1

A 12-year Pro Wrestling NOAH mainstay is saying goodbye to the promotion.

Taiji Ishimori announced that he’s leaving NOAH in a move that has stunned the Japanese wrestling community. Ishimori will now become a freelance wrestler. Under the NOAH banner, Ishimori captured GHC Junior Heavyweight gold three times. He is also a six-time GHC Junior Heavyweight Tag Team champion.

Ishimori had been with NOAH since 2006. Prior, he made numerous appearances for New Japan Pro Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling. Most recently, Ishimori made some appearances for Impact Wrestling and even won the X-Division title.

Why Now?

In an interview with Yahoo Sports Japan, Ishimori said that his exit from NOAH is being done with the hopes of ultimately signing with the WWE (translation via F4W Online):

“While I personally do like to fight on the front line of things, I have experienced [a] overseas expedition and [am] more interested in the outside world now. I have been at NOAH for twelve years and a wrestler for sixteen. If I do not make this decision, I will regret it unless I take the first step.”

Pro Wrestling: EVE Announce WAR GAMES Match for Wrestle Queendom

0

Pro Wrestling: EVE will be hosting Europe’s biggest ever Women’s Wrestling event when they head to Bethnal Green’s York Hall for Wrestle Queendom on May 5th. Already announced for this stellar event is SHE-1 winning combatant Charlie Morgan taking on Sammii Jayne for the EVE Championship, Aja Kong vs Viper/Piper Niven and Meiko Satomora facing Kay Lee Ray.

But adding to the already stacked lineup is the announcement that EVE will be hosting their first ever WAR GAMES rules match! Rhia O’Reilly will be forming a team to take on ‘The Deserving’ (Charli Evans, Jamie Hayter and Jayla Dark) who attacked her during the recent ‘Sheroes’ event effectively costing her an opportunity at the Pro Wrestling: EVE Championship.

Tickets for the May 5th event are still available to purchase via evewrestling.com

https://twitter.com/ProWrestlingEVE/status/972659319614377984

UK Match of The Week – Chris Brookes vs Jonah Rock

2

Welcome back to our feature on the best independent wrestling that the United Kingdom has to offer. Once again we HAVE to feature an absolutely sterling match from the Brighton based RIPTIDE promotion featuring the ‘leader’ of #CCK Chris Brookes taking on UK scene newcomer Jonah Rock.

Brookes is especially impressive in this short bout, he is generally regarded as a tag team specialist alongside his CCK partners Travis Banks and Kid Lykos. As Banks has been tearing it up in PROGRESS as their World Champion and Lykos has once again been sidelined with injury Brookes has been carving a very nice run as a singles competitor, which culminated in a bout for the PROGRESS World Title against his stablemate.

Jonah Rock recently made the jump over to the UK scene after impressing massively in Australia, his work for Melbourne City Wrestling (MCW) and WR led to stints in PWG and most recently wXw’s 16 Carat Gold Tournament. His stature and quick pace set him apart from the rest of the pack and he is ready to become one of the best around.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4I9XW3mgGXo

https://twitter.com/RIPTIDEwres/status/972462955076911104

Matt Riddle vs Will Ospreay Announced for OTT ScrapperMania

1

Over The Top Wrestling (OTT) has announced the latest match for their upcoming Scrappermania show on May 12th. The already announced card features some absolute world beater matches in the form of IWGP Intercontinental Champion Minoru Suzuki taking on WWN World Champion Keith Lee and Tomohiro Ishii going one-on-one with Jeff Cobb…but this bout may well top even those.

IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion Will Ospreay will be taking on the ‘King of Bros’ Matt Riddle. Both men are still extremely young but have to be considered veterans of the independent scene at this point, Ospreay especially has been stealing shows across the world with his performances in PROGRESS & Rev Pro, in Australia and New Zealand and of course his recent NJPW matches alongside the likes of Kazuchika Okada. This could easily make MOTY lists come December and can be found on OTT’s On Demand service soon after the fact.

The following talents have also been confirmed for the mega show on May 12th:

  • OTT No Limits Champion Jordan Devlin
  • Zack Sabre Jr
  • The Kings Of The North (Damien Corvin & Bonesaw)

Elias Promises Special Performance At WrestleMania 34

8

WWE Raw Superstar Elias recently did an interview with SportsKeeda to talk about various topics. During the interview, he reflected on being called up to the main roster and being fast-tracked to it from NXT.

He was signed to a developmental deal by WWE in early 2014 and was placed in NXT.

The sports entertainment company and its Chairman Vince McMahon thought that it was the right time to call up the NXT star to the main roster and place him on the Monday Night Raw brand in April of last year.

“I heard the term “fast-tracked”, which I actually think is the opposite of what it was. I spent a lot of time at NXT. But what I feel the main difference is that what I was doing at live events during my time in NXT is what I brought to television on the main roster. So a lot of people only got to see short little bursts on NXT. 30 seconds at a time on the guitar, a few minutes in the ring. Monday Night RAW gives me a lot more time to express myself.”

“It’s definitely satisfying to be in the main events and to reach a certain level, but as far as personal goals go, personal feelings, I feel like I’m not even close to where I want to be yet. I feel like I’m only starting my path towards the very top. As far as success and where I’m at right now, that’s for everybody else to decide. I know where I want to be.”

WrestleMania 34 is set to be held on Sunday, April 8, 2018, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. This event airs on pay-per-view (PPV) and WWE Network. It’s the most successful and longest-running professional wrestling event in history.

As of this writing, there are no clear-cut plans for him at the biggest event of the year for the sports entertainment company. During this interview, he was asked about his performance that he will do at the upcoming event.

“At WrestleMania, the performance will be something that you’ve not seen Elias do yet. We call it the grandest spectacle of them all right? I’m the grandest performer on Monday Night RAW, I’m the grandest performer in WWE. It’s only fitting that at WrestleMania, the biggest show we have, I put on the biggest performance you’ve ever seen.”

Sonya Deville Comments On Potential Match With Ronda Rousey, Being First Openly Gay Woman In WWE

23

WWE Raw star Sonya Deville recently made an appearance on longtime WWE ring announcer Lilian Garcia’s podcast, Chasing Glory, to talk about various topics.

During the interview, she was asked about a potential match with former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, who is slated to team up with WWE Hall of Famer and current General Manager of Monday Night Raw Kurt Angle to take on Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in a Mixed Tag Team Match at WrestleMania 34.

“I haven’t actually said anything publicly about it yet…I feel like the story me and Ronda can tell one day will be so awesome, and I think we have something special here…I think that it’s going to be an honor and a privilege to work in the ring with her…That’s the biggest compliment, is that Ronda Rousey – she’s done a lot in her life. She’s accomplished a lot. Besides MMA and the UFC, she was a Judo Olympian. She was a bronze medalist. And she went undefeated for so long, and she has a lot of accomplishments. So, for her to want to be here so bad, to go through contract negotiations for as long as they did with her, and to finally be here, that is such a compliment to our division and what we’re doing here.”

Also during this interview, she was asked about being the first openly gay women in the WWE.

“I guess I put a big burden on myself because I want to send out the right message and I want to talk about it properly, and I do want to make sure that people hear my story because I think that it’s an interesting one that can help a lot of people. I get tweets and stuff. I tear up now just thinking about it. This little girl the other day was tweeting me – her name’s Courtney – and telling me that she came out to her family because she read my post and everything. I gave her the courage…that’s the kind of influence I want to have. It’s not just being gay. It’s just being you.”

Hear the full episode at: http://bit.ly/2FClQmQ or https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/chasing-glory-with-lilian-garcia/id1264774600?mt=2.

Kurt Angle Q&A: Teaming With Ronda Rousey At WrestleMania 34, Jason Jordan’s WWE Return

0

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently did a Q&A on Facebook and commented on a number of interesting topics.

During the session, a fan asked when his storyline son, Jason Jordan, would return to in-ring action. If you recall, Jordan had neck surgery several weeks ago and WWE announced that Jordan wouldn’t be able to return in time for Wrestlemania 34.

“Jason should be ok to come back shortly after Wrestlemania but I’m being very optimistic. Hopefully he will be back in the next 6-8 weeks”

Angle is slated to team up with former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey to take on Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in a Mixed Tag Team Match at WrestleMania 34. During the Q&A, he was asked about competing at the event and teaming with Rousey.

“I’ve wanted to perform at Wrestlemania for the past 5 years. I’m back and I’m grateful to be in a spot that I feel great about. Teaming up w Ronda and competing against HHH/Steph is one of the best spots on the card. I’m excited to show the world I still got it. I was injured at Survivor Series so I was very limited. But now I’m looking forward to WM34”

WrestleMania 34 is set to be held on Sunday, April 8, 2018, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. This event airs on pay-per-view (PPV) and WWE Network. It’s the most successful and longest-running professional wrestling event in history. Both Raw and SmackDown rosters will be featured.

“I’m excited to team with Ronda. She is an exceptional competitor… dominant and smart. And HHH will go down in history as one of the greatest of all time. His resume speaks for itself. This match will NOT disappoint. Trust me”

Big Name Reportedly Appearing At WWE’s Greatest Royal Rumble Event

5

WWE is pulling out all of the stops for their upcoming the Greatest Royal Rumble event.

The sports entertainment company will be holding the show at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Friday, April 27. For the first time ever, the Royal Rumble match will feature 50 WWE Superstars.

John Cena, Triple H, Roman Reigns, AJ Styles, Braun Strowman, The New Day, Randy Orton, Bray Wyatt, and Shinsuke Nakamura have already been announced for the show.

You can add former WWE Champion Chris Jericho’s name to the ongoing list of talents that will be working the show. PWinsider.com is reporting that after the WWE contacted him to appear at the event, all signs point to him working the show. As of this writing, there’s no word yet on if this will be a one night return or the beginning of another run for him under the WWE banner.

Jericho was last seen on WWE television during a backstage segment with Elias at the 25 Anniversary episode of Monday Night Raw in January. He last wrestled in a WWE ring since July of 2016. Since then, Jericho made several surprise appearances for New Japan Pro Wrestling including his match against Kenny Omega at the Wrestle Kingdom event at the Tokyo Dome.

 

Kid Rock To Be Inducted Into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2018

22

Kid Rock will officially join the WWE Hall of Fame after being announced as the celebrity inductee for the 2018 class.

WWE announced the news on Monday via Billboard with Kid Rock being the latest member of the 2018 class that also includes Goldberg, the Dudley Boyz, Jeff Jarrett, Ivory and Hillbilly Jim with the induction ceremony taking place on Friday, April 6 during WrestleMania 34 weekend in New Orleans.

“Every time I go to a WWE event I always have a good time; there is nothing like it and no better fans in the world,” Kid Rock said about his induction. “The Hall of Fame ceremony will be a fun night and it will be great to see everyone again. I have so much respect for what those guys and girls do.

“I’m grateful to WWE for letting me be a part of WrestleMania weekend.”

Kid Rock has been a mainstay with WWE after performing at WrestleMania 25 as well as also making an appearance at a WWE Tribute for the Troops show in 2012.

Kid Rock also famously had his song “American Bad Ass” serve as the entrance music for The Undertaker during his stint where he was portrayed as an outlaw biker during part of his career with WWE. Kid Rock’s music was also used for Stacy Kiebler while she was performing in WWE as well.

Kid Rock is the latest celebrity inductee for the WWE Hall of Fame where he joins past recipients such as Snoop Dogg, Mike Tyson, and President Donald Trump.

Kid Rock will appear alongside the rest of the inductees at the ceremony on Friday, April 6 ahead of WrestleMania 34. There’s no word yet if Kid Rock will also perform that weekend.

Alexa Bliss Reacts To Asuka’s WrestleMania Decision, Mojo Rawley On “You Can’t Wrestle” Chants

15

– As we’ve noted, Asuka chose to challenge Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 34 for the SmackDown Live Women’s Title. The 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble winner had her choice between Flair or RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss. Despite currently being a Superstar on RAW, “The Empress Of Tomorrow” decided to challenge SmackDown Live’s top woman instead. Bliss took to Twitter to react to Asuka’s decision:

– On the Fastlane pre-show last night Breezango teamed up with Tye Dillinger to defeat Mojo Rawley, Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin in a Six-Man Tag Team match. During the match Rawley was receiving “You can’t wrestle” chants from the crowd. He took to Twitter to react after the show:

https://twitter.com/MojoRawleyWWE/status/972988482321879040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

AJ Styles & Shinsuke Nakamura Hype WrestleMania 34 Match, Asuka Confirms She’s Challenging Charlotte For The SDL Women’s Title (Video)

3

– WWE Champion AJ Styles successfully retained his title in a Six Pack Challenge at last night’s Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) event. “The Phenomenal One” will now go on to defend his strap in a dream match against 2018 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Shinsuke Nakamura at WrestleMania 34. Both men took to Twitter to hype the upcoming title bout:

– Speaking of Royal Rumble winners, 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Asuka appeared at Fastlane after Charlotte Flair successfully defended her SmackDown Live Women’s Title against Ruby Riot. She confronted Flair and pointed at the WrestleMania 34 sign, indicating her choice to challenge Flair at the event.

Although she didn’t verbally confirm her decision during the segment, a post-event interview with Cathy Kelly confirmed “The Empress Of Tomorrow” did in fact choose Flair for WrestleMania:

The Miz Welcomes Randy Orton To Club, Charlotte Flair On If Asuka Is Overrated, Randy Orton Gets Title Plates (Video)

1

– WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz took to Twitter to congratulate and welcome new United States Champion Randy Orton to the Grand Slam Champions club. Orton defeated Bobby Roode at the Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) event to capture the United States Title for the first time ever.

Orton is now the 10th Grand Slam Champion under the current format. He joins Big Show, Daniel Bryan, The Miz, Chris Jericho, Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns, Edge, Kurt Angle, and Eddie Guerrero:

https://twitter.com/mikethemiz/status/973102767999987712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

– Speaking of Orton’s United States Title win, WWE posted a video of “The Viper” receiving his new title plates:

– Also at Fastlane last night, 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Asuka chose to challenge SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 34. She joined Talking Smack after the PPV event to offer her thoughts on whether or not “The Empress Of Tomorrow,” who has remained undefeated in WWE for two years, is overrated. Flair said she’s not underestimating Asuka ahead of their WrestleMania clash, and she doesn’t think the Japanese star is underestimating her either:

Mick Foley Reveals Which Match He Thinks Will Steal The Show At WrestleMania 34

10

Last night’s WWE Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) event finalized a pair of key championship matches for WrestleMania 34. In the main event of the evening, AJ Styles successfully defended his WWE Title in a Six Pack Challenge match. He will now defend his WWE strap in singles action against 2018 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Shinsuke Nakamura at “The Showcase Of The Immortals.” Also on the card saw SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair successfully defend her title against Ruby Riot.

After the match 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Asuka, who had yet to announce who she decided to challenge at WrestleMania, came out after Flair’s victory to confront the champion. She pointed at the WrestleMania 34 sign while staring Charlotte down, indicating she had made her decision.

WWE Hall Of Famer and former RAW General Manager Mick Foley took to his Facebook page and suggested he thinks Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka will steal the show at WrestleMania 34 in New Orleans next month:

“FOLEY PREDICTS – this match will steal the show at #WrestleMania
The excitement surrounding #CharlotteVsAsuka is a testament not only to the two women in the match, but to every woman who helped make it possible – from those who laid the groundwork for the #WomensRevolution to those who raised the bar, to those who work so hard week in and week out to make #WomensWrestling stronger than it’s ever been – not just in #WWE but in #TNA #Shimmer #Shine US Indies and around the world.
What match do YOU think will steal the show at #Mania ?
The #20YearsOfHellTour begins #OneMonthFromToday in #ROSEMONT IL and continues with April shows in #DC #NASHVILLE #HUNTSVILLE #BIRMINGHAM and #EDMONTON & #CALGARY #Alberta
Get tix & info at http://www.realmickfoley.com/events/

IMPACT Wrestling & Aro Lucha Officials Attend Recent Lucha Underground Tapings, Kevin Owens Believes He Should Be WWE Champion

0

– PWInsider is reporting that Aro Lucha’s Jason Brown, Ron Harris, and Don Harris were backstage at Friday’s Lucha Underground tapings. Two days later on Sunday, IMPACT Wrestling’s Ed Nordholm was in attendance for a taping as well. The visits were reportedly part of the organizations trying to build a working relationship with one another of some sort.

IMPACT is already set to partner with Lucha Underground April 6th for a Twitch live event special as part of WrestleCon in New Orleans on WrestleMania weekend. Aro Lucha is currently looking for talent for its upcoming TV tapings that are scheduled to go down later this year in Nashville, Tennessee.

– Kevin Owens recently took to Twitter to suggest he thinks he should be WWE Champion. During last night’s Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) main event; a Six Pack Challenge between AJ Styles, John Cena, Owens, Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler, and Baron Corbin, Owens looked as though he had the match won at one point.

SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon, who was sitting ringside for the entire match, interfered in both Owens and Zayn’s pinfalls that would’ve likely secured them the match. Owens took to Twitter to voice his frustrations:

https://twitter.com/FightOwensFight/status/973062576732065793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mandatory.com%2Fwrestlezone%2Fnews%2F931263-kevin-owens-i-should-be-wwe-champion-right-now-watch-john-cena-be-humble-in-defeat-to-aj-styles

Update On The Big Show’s WWE Contract Status, Did Dolph Ziggler Take A Jab At Brock Lesnar?

3

Sports Illustrated is reporting that The Big Show’s WWE contract did expire in February last month. WWE has reportedly signed him to an agents contract in order to keep him with the company and prevent him from working elsewhere. Show recently stated that he plans to be back by WrestleMania 34.

– Just prior to WWE’s Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) on the pre-show last night, Dolph Ziggler spoke to Cathy Kelly and Renee Young to hype his involvement in the main event of the evening – a Six Pack Challenge match for the WWE Title. During his promo Ziggler seemed to take a shot at WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar.

Ziggler said that SmackDown Live has their champion who defends his title week after week, seemingly taking a shot at Brock Lesnar’s part-time status over on Monday Night RAW:

“He [AJ Styles] is definitely a fighting champion and that’s been a huge factor that I like about SmackDown Live for RAW more. We have our champion, every night defending it but that also opens the door for me to slide in there and steal it.”

Recovery Time For Rey Mysterio’s Injury Revealed

7

During a recent appearance for the Northeast Wrestling promotion earlier this month, former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Rey Mysterio suffered a bicep injury in the middle of his Tag Team match. Mysterio was still able to move his arm after the injury, however, had it been a complete tear he wouldn’t have been able to move it at all. As a result of the injury Mysterio did, and will continue to, miss some dates he was scheduled for.

Dave Meltzer recently discussed Mysterio’s injury on the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio and reports that the Mexican star is expected to miss a month of action. His status for the upcoming Long Beach show is currently unknown as it happens in two weeks from now:

“He was in Lexington yesterday and he said he would be out of action for one month. Now the long Beach show is two weeks from today and he said he didn’t know. At least I am going to say it’s touch and go. It may just be go. We’ll probably know in a day or two. I think he may wait until the end because he probably has this idea.

“If he can possibly do it because it’s New Japan then he will do it, but I think there is a recognition that he may not be ready in time.”

H/T Ringside News for the transcriptions

Why Brock Lesnar Won’t Be Allowed To Simultaneously Work For WWE & UFC

6

With Brock Lesnar’s WWE contract set to expire soon after WrestleMania 34 in April, it’s still up-in-the-air whether or not “The Beast” will stay with the company or return to mixed martial arts (MMA) competition in the UFC. Lesnar is currently scheduled to defend his WWE Universal Championship against Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania in New Orleans next month.

It’s expected that Lesnar will drop the strap to “The Big Dog.” WWE would like for Lesnar to enter a program with the returning Bobby Lashley soon after, but that’s dependent on whether or not he re-signs with WWE. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reports that if Lesnar does want to return to the MMA world he won’t be allowed to work for the UFC simultaneously while with WWE:

“They won’t let him do it again and that’s why he’s leaving. Failed drug test is probably why. It’s a big risk for them. I was really surprised they let him fight with Mark Hunt. He had to kind of talk them into that. I think that they thought that he would beat Mark Hunt, which is surprising to a degree just because – well he did win. I thought that fight was far from a given that he would win.”

Meltzer then noted that a possible superfight at heavyweight against former 205-pound UFC champion Jon Jones is a key reason Lesnar is interested in returning to UFC. He also suggested, however, that “The Beast” could simply be leveraging WWE for more money:

“The big fight with Jon Jones is probably one he won’t win but there is so much money to be made and I think that’s why he wants to do that fight. I don’t think UFC is that comfortable having to work through WWE to get somebody that they don’t have under contract. I mean they did because it was UFC 200 and it was a special show but I think that they would rather not do that.

“I think that he would rather not have to go and get Vince McMahon’s approval on everything he does. So it just makes sense. If the right fight is there, then the money is there for him to leave. If it’s not, it’s different. The flip is this may all be a bluff anyways and he’s just doing it to leverage and to get a better deal from Vince.”

H/T Ringside News for the transcriptions