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The Big Show On Complications From A Recent Surgery, His Recovery Time

Jon Fuentes
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7

Earlier this morning WWE’s The Big Show appeared on Busted Open Radio to talk about a recent hip surgery, and complications he suffered from it as a result. He revealed he went under the knife in September but got a fever several weeks later. It turns out he contracted a surgical infection:

“I’ve been really quiet with what’s been going on with me. I’ve had a hip resurfacing surgery in September. The surgery went really well. I got home and after 3 and a half weeks I was walking a mile. Things started to feel good, then I got a fever. I found out I had a surgical infection. The more I find out about these metal implants, it’s quite high to get an infection. I just got the unlucky draw.

“The hospital I had it done in New York is one of the top in the world for least amount of surgical infections. They had to open me up again, take it out, clean it, flush it, etc. If the infection had got any worse, they would have to cut the metal pieces out, put in what they call a cement joint for 3 months and then do a full on hip replacement, which would have ended my career.

“Instead, we got a very aggressive cleaning down here in Florida. I got a thing called a PICC line, which is basically an IV line from my left arm to my heart. For 7 weeks, I was walking around with an IV bag, 3 times a day, total of 8 hours a day. It was almost like having a small baby in the house because you only got 3-4 hours of sleep before you had to change the medicine. It was very stressful because I couldn’t go to the gym or do anything. I couldn’t get my blood pressure up, I couldn’t do anything physical. It was pretty difficult. We finally pulled the PICC line out on January 2nd.

“Things right now are touch and go for another 6-8 months. The more I learned about infections, the more I learn that they are very aggressive and adapt to certain medicines. The main thing we tried to do was keep the infection off the metal plate. Once bacteria gets on that metal plate, you can’t get it off. We’ve done everything we could. I dropped 27 pounds since January 2nd and I’m back in the gym feeling right.”

Despite his recent surgery and sitting at 45-years-old, the former WWE and WCW World Heavyweight Champion feels he still has a lot to contribute to the business:

“There’s always something to do in our business. I have a lot to contribute. For the younger talent, simple things like in and out of ring etiquette, treating yourself like a brand. These kids are amazing with social media, but there’s a certain way to carry yourself as a star. Being a WWE superstar is about giving, and I think there’s a few guys who get that. A lot of times talent gets wrapped up in the ‘me me me’ instead of ‘we we we’. There is no I in team. WWE is a team.

“Out of the billions of people on this planet, the 75-80 men and women on the roster have the opportunity to call themselves WWE superstars. That’s a very small percentage of people. They are in a position to be thankful. Thankful that they have the opportunity to be a WWE star, thankful to be working with people who you’ve grown up to idolize. Little things like that are what I still feel like I have to contribute.

“Also, I’m still having fun. It would be different if I wasn’t having fun anymore. I have done everything The Big Show can do personally aside from going out to have fun. I’m not under any pressure other than to go out and have fun. For me, this is the best time of my career. I can go out and interact with my fans.”

AJ Styles On Shawn Michaels Turning Down A WrestleMania Match With Him

Jon Fuentes
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Current WWE Champion AJ Styles recently did an interview with India Today to talk about several professional wrestling topics. One such topic was the rumored match that was planned between himself and WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels at last year’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view (PPV). It turns out that Michaels shot the idea down:

“He [Michaels] said no. I’m not doing it. But being in the ring with someone like Shawn Michaels or the Undertaker and being able to learn from those guys will be a blessing. I would love to be in the ring with Shawn Michaels. Similar size, similar styles and to be in the ring with someone like that and all the knowledge he has. It would be a classic.”

“The Phenomenal One” was also asked about how he thinks “The Modern Day Maharaja” Jinder Mahal is doing in WWE. Styles said Mahal is doing great and he has all the makings of being the star he already is:

“Jinder is doing great. He has everything that he has got here. Looks like a star, acts like a star. That’s why he is one. He is perfect for the WWE, perfect for India. He is great and to see him be the star and come along is really cool. This business is really tough and Jinder went through some tough times in this business and now to see him where he is after all the hard work he has put in, he deserves everything and he has earned everything in the WWE.”

You can read Styles’ full interview with India Today by clicking this link here.

Charlotte Takes A Shot At Ronda Rousey On Twitter, New XFL Trademarks Filed

Jon Fuentes
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15

– Vince McMahon and Alpha Entertainment recently applied to trademark their own and the XFL logo. They also filed to trademark terms related to Alpha and the XFL.

– WWE recently replaced their social media banners with the image of ex-UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey pointing up at the WrestleMania 34 sign. A lot has been made of Rousey’s debut at the Royal Rumble at her pointing at the sign.

In an apparent shot at “The Rowdy One,” Charlotte Tweeted out the following picture of herself and captioned it “Champions don’t need to point.”

The Young Bucks Tease Leaving New Japan?

Jake Skudder
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6

Matt Jackson of the Young Bucks tweeted an interesting reply to a fan earlier today. When asked if the Bucks’ would be taking part in next year’s Wrestle Kingdom show Jackson simply replied “our contracts will be up by then, so we’ll see.”

Whilst the Bucks are extremely business savvy individuals and this could be an attempt to once again ‘troll’ the wrestling world it is interesting to note following the departures to NXT of Ricochet & War Machine…

The Bucks have said on many occasions that they do not intend on leaving the independent scene and making the jump over to the WWE. It is important to remember that the legal issues surrounding the use of the ‘Too Sweet’ hand gesture and ‘crotch chop’ may have soured any sort of relationship between the two parties; the WWE sent a cease and desist letter to the Bucks which could easily have had a detrimental effect on the merchandise sales for the New Japan stars.

You may also remember back in January when the WWE UK Facebook page seemingly jumped the gun and referred to the reformed Balor, Gallows and Anderson trio as ‘The Bullet Club.’

Opinion: Whilst the three men where in fact part of the original Bullet Club and it was a simple mistake by a member of WWE’s social media team the fact remains that ‘Bullet Club’ is not a trademark WWE owns and they have superstars on WWE television openly referring to the gimmick…which was lifted from the Kliq…all very confusing legally.

https://twitter.com/MattJackson13/status/960953139686907904

Jason Jordan Pulled From Upcoming TV & Live Events

Jon Fuentes
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10

Last night’s segment on Monday Night RAW, in which General Manager Kurt Angle told his ‘son’ Jason Jordan to go home until he’s medically cleared to return, was a way to write Jordan off WWE TV while he deals with a legitimate neck injury. PWInsider now reports Jordan has been pulled from traveling on the road with WWE and will not be at upcoming TV tapings or live events.

WWE has been doing their best to work around Jordan’s injury in recent weeks. It was recently reported that if Jordan needs surgery to repair his neck that he could be out for up to a year. It should be noted, however, that Jordan’s wife recently took to social media to confirm the injury. But she did note that recent reports have been greatly exaggerated and called the injury ‘minor’:

“Yes, “Jason Jordan” is injured. I assure you everything you have seen online is “Fake News!” He has a minor neck injury and will be back in no time! Although, I am very excited to have him home for a bit, I promise, I will help guide him to a speedy recovery! Thank you to everyone who reached out to check on him! He is very positive and already planning his comeback! In the meantime, just please keep sending Nathan and I good vibes!! ”

We’ll keep you updated as we learn more…..

Updated Names For PROGRESS’ Wrestlemania Weekend Shows, Plus Keith Lee Announced for Super Strong Style 16

Jake Skudder
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0

PROGRESS has released an updated list of names for their upcoming Wrestlemania weekend shows from the Pontchartrain Center on April 6th/April 7th. The company has also confirmed that the famed ‘Thunderb*stard’ match will be coming to the United States for the very first time.

Here are the confirmed names for the weekender:

  • PROGRESS World Champion Travis Banks
  • PROGRESS Women’s Champion Toni Storm
  • PROGRESS Tag Team Champions Zack Gibson and James Drake
  • ATLAS Champion WALTER
  • Jimmy Havoc and Mark Haskins
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion Will Ospreay
  • ‘Flash’ Morgan Webster

The company has also confirmed that ‘Limitless’ Keith Lee will be joining the Super Strong Style 16 tournament in May alongside WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne. The SSS16 is regarded as the premiere tournament in European wrestling and the 2018 iteration looks set to be one of the biggest in company history.

Rey Mysterio Challenging for 5 Star Wrestling Title This Thursday

Jake Skudder
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1

5 Star Wrestling has announced that former WWE/WCW/Lucha Underground legend Rey Mysterio will be challenging for their newly created Tap Or Snap Championship this Thursday as part of their weekly FreeSports programming.

Inaugural winner Mark Haskins captured the title last Thursday when he won a 5 man submission elimination match, outlasting UK stars such as ‘Flash’ Morgan Webster and Nathan Cruz.

5 Star is available to watch live in the UK on Thursday nights from 7pm via the following channels:

  • Freeview (ch 95)
  • Sky (ch 424)
  • Freesat (ch 252)
  • Talk Talk TV (ch 95)
  • BT TV (ch 95)

The Miz Signs New Contract With WWE

Chris Stephens
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22

Michael Gregory Mizanin has signed a long-term deal with WWE. The new deal locks the Miz up for the next 4 years.

Miz was originally signed to the comapny following his performance on Tough Enough in 2004. According to a report from PW Insider, his new deal will see him continue with the promotion until at least 2022.

https://twitter.com/mikethemiz/status/960722182426038274

The Surprising Achievements of the Miz

Slowly but surely throughout his 13-year career the Miz has become a respected veteran. A far cry from his early days, where a poor backstage reputation had many feeling he wouldn’t be with the company long. Over time, Miz’s reputation has flipped and he has even won over some of his more hardened detractors. There can be little doubt now as to his future inclusion in the WWE Hall of Fame.

In addition to having once defeated John Cena in the main event of WrestleMania, Miz also has a claim to being the greatest Intercontinental champion of all-time. As of this writing, Miz has held the Intercontinental title for 535 days combined over 8 reigns. Pedro Morales holds the record at 619 days and Don Muraco is in 2nd with 541 days. Miz will pass Morales on Thursday April 26th, 2018 if he doesn’t lose the title before then.

Daniel Bryan Or Kurt Angle To Referee Tonight (Video), Asuka On Beating Bayley, New WWE Partnership

Jon Fuentes
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3

– WWE is allowing fans to vote on who they want to serve as tonight’s Special Guest referee for tonight’s Mixed Match Challenge match – SmackDown Live General Manager Daniel Bryan or Monday Night RAW General Manager Kurt Angle. Tonight’s match will be between the teams of Jimmy Uso and Naomi vs. Goldust and Mandy Rose:

– Asuka took to Twitter to react to her win over Bayley on last night’s episode of RAW. Here’s what she had to say:

– WWE has announced a new Embroidery partnership with LIDS Sports Group. Here’s the official press release:

LIDS Sports Group Partners with WWE for Custom Embroidery

Leading retailer offers fans custom embroidery of WWE Superstars and Legends names, logos and autographs on headwear

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 6, 2018) – Leading omni-channel sports licensed retailer LIDS Sports Group announced today a new partnership with WWE, gaining the licensing rights to create on-demand WWE headwear. The new licensing agreement allows for LIDS to embroider the names, logos, and autographs (EmbroidiGraph) of WWE Superstars and Legends on WWE-licensed headwear within its stores and upon orders online.

“The passion that runs through the veins of WWE fans is indisputable, so we are thrilled to be able to further connect with this fanbase by offering them a new way to demonstrate support for their favorite Superstars and Legends,” said David Baxter, president and CEO of LIDS Sports Group. “Customization is an important aspect to our brand, and we hope to continue the expansion of our WWE customization offerings in ways that take customers’ fandom to the next level.”

The new agreement also allows for the on-demand creation of custom WWE headwear. Customers can select from a wide selection of blank headwear options offered by LIDS – which covers all styles from fitted to flex to snapbacks in a wide variety of colors – and then choose from the new library of WWE custom embroidery options to create personalized, one-of-a-kind looks. Thanks to LIDS’ unique customization capabilities, creating a custom WWE hat in-store will take only minutes.

LIDS’s WWE on-demand customization program launched a select assortment of logos and autographs ahead of WWE’s Royal Rumble event, and LIDS will continuously add new WWE Superstars and Legends on a monthly-basis.

“LIDS shares our vision of fan engagement by providing customized offerings that connects our passionate fans with their favorite Superstars,” said Casey Collins, WWE Executive Vice President of Consumer Products. “We’re excited to launch this new on-demand initiative with a brand who can offer WWE products in real-time alongside our biggest events.”

Nearly 1,000 LIDS stores nationwide are outfitted with comprehensive embroidery capabilities, providing shoppers the ability to customize their headwear and apparel with names, phrases and images. Shoppers are also able to customize headwear online at www.lids.com. LIDS’s unique EmbroidiGraph service also allows consumers to embroider any current professional athlete’s signature (NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL) on any team-licensed hat.

LIDS Sports Group operates more than 1,200 retail locations across North America and has sold approximately 300 million hats since its founding. To learn more, visit www.lids.com.

The Miz Asks Critics If They Feel ‘Stupid’ Yet, Finn Balor On Facing Brock Lesnar At WM, Nia Jax

Jon Fuentes
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11

– On last night’s episode of RAW WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz qualified for the Elimination Chamber match by defeating Apollo Crews. The winner of the Chamber match will go on to face Brock Lesnar for the WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 34. Miz took to Twitter to ask his doubters over the years if they ‘feel stupid yet’:

https://twitter.com/mikethemiz/status/960722182426038274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

– Speaking of the Elimination Chamber match, next week’s episode of RAW from San Jose will feature a Fatal Four-Way match between Finn Balor, Matt Hardy, Bray Wyatt, and Apollo Crews. All of these men lost their initial qualifying match for the Elimination Chamber.

This “Second Chance Fatal Four-Way” will determine the sixth and final competitor in the Elimination Chamber match. WWE recently posted an interview with Finn Balor; who vows to win the Fatal Four-Way, go on to win the Chamber match, and topple Lesnar at WrestleMania to regain the Universal Crown:

– Nia Jax was left out of the first-ever Women’s Elimination Chamber match, however, RAW General Manager did but her in a match that gives her quite the opportunity. Jax will instead take on Women’s Royal Rumble winner Asuka in a Singles match. If she’s successful she’ll be thrown into the RAW Women’s Title match at WrestleMania, making it a Triple Threat match. She took to Twitter to react:

https://twitter.com/NiaJaxWWE/status/960708931306840065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

More Information On Kane’s WWE Status

Jon Fuentes
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10

On last week’s episode of Monday Night RAW Braun Strowman destroyed Kane in their Last Man Standing match by dumping the entire announcer’s desk on him. Shortly afterwards in a storyline update WWE announced Kane was taken to a medical facility, where he sat up on the examiner’s table and crawled out of the hospital. There’s no word on why Kane has seemingly been written off WWE TV for now, whether it’s for injury or to campaign, but he has been removed from all upcoming WWE live events through this month.

He is, however, still being advertised for TV and live events in the month of March. Kane is set to hold a big campaign event for his bid for Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee. He and The Undertaker will be appearing at the Rothchild Catering & Conference Center on Thursday, March 1st at 6:30 P.M. in Knoxville. Also, at the end of next week Chris Jericho will host a special Talk Is Jericho Live with Kane in Knoxville.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHqCKUqoAeE

ROH Breaks Ticket Sale Record, Ric Flair Hypes Hulk Hogan Q&A, Rusev Day Calendar Sales

Jon Fuentes
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1

– Per Lavie Margolin on Twitter, Ring Of Honor (ROH) has sold nearly 4,000 tickets for its upcoming Supercard of Honor event – which goes down on WrestleMania 34 weekend – headlined by Cody Rhodes vs. Kenny Omega. The exact number of tickets sold at the time of the Tweet was 3,828, a new record for the promotion:

– WWE Hall Of Famers Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan will be participating in a Q&A session from the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa this upcoming Saturday. “The Nature Boy” took to Twitter to hype the event:

– Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp reports that WWE’s Rusev Day calendar has been selling very well. So well, in fact, that the company ordered 5,000 more after their initial order of 2,500 dried up quicker than expected:

Video: Corey Graves’ Shot At Booker T During RAW

Jon Fuentes
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19

For those of you who missed it, WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T recently went off on Corey Graves during an episode of his Heated Conversations radio show on Sports Radio 610 in Houston, Texas. The former WCW World Heavyweight Champion blames Graves for not being on the RAW commentary team anymore, stating WWE officials were afraid he’d ‘jump on’ him sooner or later.

Now Booker will likely only be used for pre and post-show panels. He also threatened to attack Graves if he sees him outside the realm of a WWE production before challenging him to a legit fist fight. More on that here. Graves later indirectly responded to Booker’s comments on Twitter with the following:

Graves took things a step further during last night’s episode of Monday Night RAW. During Bayley’s entrance to face Asuka in singles action, Graves told Booker T’s replacement on the commentary team, Jonathan Coachman, the following:

“You better be careful Coach, watch your tongue or you might be doing afternoon radio locally.”

https://twitter.com/RingsideNewscom/status/960900157339521025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ringsidenews.com%2F2018%2F02%2F06%2Fcorey-graves-takes-shot-booker-t-mondays-raw%2F

This of course was a reference to Booker’s Heated Conversations show on Houston Sports Radio 610. If fans are hoping that this is a work and a match between the two is coming, that’s very unlikely. Graves is unable to get cleared by WWE doctors to compete due to his history of concussion-related injuries. It looks like the heat between the two is very real.

John Cena Writing A New Book Series For Children

Staff
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17

John Cena is branching out into yet another form of media: children’s books.

Random House Books for Young Readers sent out a press release on Tuesday announcing that Cena will be writing a new line of books for children.

The first title to publish in the series will be Elbow Grease, a picture book about a monster truck who is smaller than his four “brothers” but never gives up and displays the grit and determination to keep up with them.

The series was inspired by John Cena’s childhood, with Cena being the second oldest of five brothers.

“With Elbow Grease and the books to follow, I want to offer kids a fun and engaging way to learn about the power of ambition, dedication, and heart,” said Cena in the press release. “These concepts have been transformative in my life, from my childhood up to now, and it’s so important to me to pass the positivity on and help our youngest generation see that right mindset is key to achievement.”

Elbow Grease is illustrated by Howard McWilliam and is due out October 9th, 2018.

elbow greese

Reason Why WWE Had Elias Pin John Cena On Monday Night RAW

Andrew Ravens
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21

As seen on this week’s episode of WWE Monday Night RAW in Des Moines, IA at the Wells Fargo Arena on the USA Network, Elias beat John Cena and Braun Strowman in a Triple Threat Match.

As a result of this win, Elias has earned the right to enter last in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match at the pay-per-view event that takes place on Sunday, February 25th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada and will air on the WWE Network.

Dave Meltzer shed some light on why the sports entertainment company decided to do this on the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio. According to the longtime journalist, WWE had Elias pin Cena to help him get over and to follow up on the feud between the two superstars that has transpired over the last few weeks on television. The belief is that they will wrestle each other again later down the road.

Regarding the post-match angle where Strowman beat down both talents, the idea behind it was to help build him over as one of the top superstar heading into WrestleMania season.

Jason Jordan’s Wife Disputes Injury Report; Declares Fake News

Chris Stephens
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13

Another rumored injury is being disputed by those close to the situation.

Last week, Seth Rollins responded to reports he is working with an injured back as “Fake News”. This week, Jason Jordan’s wife is disputing the most recent reports regarding the seriousness of Jordan’s injury. According to her, he is only dealing with a minor neck injury.  She also used the term “Fake News” in response to the report.

She posted the following to Instagram earlier:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be11PEOhLql/?taken-by=everhart316

Is Jason Jordan’s Injury Serious?

The Wrestling Observer report which stated Jason Jordan’s injury is more serious than previously thought was the same report which stated Seth Rollins is dealing with a back injury. Both reports have been disputed, though that doesn’t necessarily make them untrue.

In a similar case, Lars Sullivan was referred to as “having fallen off the face of the Earth” by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio. Soon after, Sullivan posted the following to Twitter:

Meltzer was commenting on Lars having not attended the previous set of NXT TV Tapings.

Smackdown, 205 Live, & MMC: Announced Matches, Segments, & Preview

Chris Stephens
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2

Tonight’s Smackdown, 205 Live, and Mixed Match Challenge come from the Sprint Center in Kansas City, MO.

As of right now, 3 matches and one important segment have been announced for Smackdown. 2 important cruiserweight tournament matches have been announced for 205 Live and the Mixed Match Challenge continues tonight on Facebook as well.

Smackdown Live Preview

  • Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens – winner faces AJ Styles for WWE Championship at Fastlane
    • Kevin Owens’ friendship with Chris Jericho ended around this time last year, perhaps the same can be said for his re-formed friendship with Sami Zayn. The two will have a one-on-one match tonight with the winner facing Styles for the title at Fastlane.
  • Daniel Bryan Unveils the Smackdown Live Top 10 Superstars List
    • Last week, Bryan announced a new ranking system which will impact Smackdown booking. Superstars will vote in the rankings but will not be allowed to vote for themselves.
    • This week, Bryan will unveil the inaugural top 10 rankings
  • Charlotte Flair vs. Liv Morgan
    • A beatdown from the Riott Squad on last week’s show almost left Flair in a vulnerable enough position for Carmella to cash-in her briefcase. This week, she’ll want revenge and will have the opportunity in a single’s match against Riott Squadd member, Liv Morgan.
  • United States Championship Match
    Bobby Roode (c) vs. Rusev

    • Rusev won a fatal 4-way match last week earn a title opportunity this week.
    • Conveniently enough, this match will take place on Rusev Day.

Mixed Match Challenge

  • Goldust and Mandy Rose vs. Jimmy Uso and Naomi

205 Live

Two cruiserweight tournament matches will take place:

  • Roderick Strong vs. Hideo Itami
  • Kalisto vs. Lince Dorado

Randy Orton and Cody With An Interesting Twitter Exchange

Chris Stephens
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19

Former members of Legacy, Cody and Randy Orton, had an interesting exchange on Twitter recently.

Cody was interacting with a fan when Orton decided to chime in.

Randy Orton and Cody Twitter Exchange

Earlier, Cody had sent out a Tweet stating his belief that Vince McMahon doesn’t hold wrestlers back. He was responding to a fan who said his comments were political:

Orton was impressed by Cody’s handling of the situation:

Cody responded with what is likely an inside joke:

Randy Orton led the stable “Legacy” from 2008-2010. Cody and Ted Dibiase Jr. were his two main cronies during that time. Dibiase has since retired and Cody left WWE in 2016 and is now a former Ring of Honor champion, having lost the title to Dalton Castle at Final Battle.

WWE Latin American Tournament Possibly in the Works (Updated)

Chris Stephens
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10

Update: NXT General Manager William Regal issued a brief statement that WWE has no Latin American tournament booked “at this time.”

Original Story:

Reports coming out of South America are indicating WWE could be looking at organizing a tournament in Chile this summer. The tournament would follow a similar single-elimination format as the previous Cruiserweight Classic, UK Tournament, and Mae Young Classic tournaments have in recent years.

Planeta Wrestling is reporting that WWE is looking at holding the event in Chile as house shows have previously been successful in the country. The tournament will be open to any wrestler from South America.

WWE South American Expansion

WWE spent much of 2017 trying to break into the India market. Their attempts concluded with a house show in the country. WWE had scheduled 2 house shows in India but was forced to cancel one of them due to limited demand. WWE organized an extra show in Abu Dhabi on the tour as a result.

If WWE is planning to organize a Latin American tournament in Chile this summer, it could indicate the company plans to double-down their efforts to create stars in South American countries.

Tommy Dreamer To Receive NWA Title Shot at HOH39

Chris Stephens
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1

Billy Corgan, owner of the National Wrestling Alliance, has announced that wrestling legend Tommy Dreamer will receive an NWA World Heavyweight Championship opportunity next month. A title opportunity for Dreamer was promised by former champion, Tim Storm, last November.

The match will take place March 24th from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia at House of Hardcore 39.

Corgan announced the match through the NWA’s official YouTube page:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yM3_Qvs_3PU

NWA World Heavyweight Championship in 2018

Last week, Nick Aldis announced a world tour which will include 20 title defenses in 60 days. If Aldis is still NWA champion come March 24th, he will take on Tommy Dreamer.

The NWA also announced that should Aldis lose the title to any challenger along his tour, the new champion will pick up where Aldis left off and continue the tour.

NJPW Road to The New Beginning in Osaka (Feb. 6) Results: IWGP Tag Team Title Match

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

New Japan Pro Wrestling is set for another Road to The New Beginning in Osaka show.

Today (Feb. 6), SANADA and EVIL will put their IWGP Tag Team titles on the line against IWGP Heavyweight champion Kazuchika Okada and NEVER Openweight title holder Hiroki Goto. Also featured on the card will be a six-man tag team match as Gedo, Will Ospreay and Yoshi-Hashi take on Bushi, Hiromu Takahashi, and Tetsuya Naito.

The action begins at 4:30 a.m. ET. Be sure to keep refreshing the page to see updated results below:

Six-Man Tag Match: KUSHIDA, Tiger Mask, & Jushin Thunder Liger vs. Ren Narita, Tetsuhiro Yagi, & Syota Umino

Liger and Umino got things started. Umino ate a Shotei. Liger had a leg lock, but Narita and Yagi broke it up. Tiger Mask and Yagi were then the legal men.

Yagi ate some kicks before finding himself in a submission hold. He was able to reach the bottom rope. Yagi hit a dropkick and tagged in Narita. KUSHIDA was tagged in and went to town with kicks.

Narita applied the Boston Crab. KUSHIDA powered his way out. He nailed Narita with a DDT followed by the Hoverboard Lock. He transitioned to an armbar to force the tap.

Winners: KUSHIDA, Jushin Thunder Liger, & Tiger Mask

Tag Team Match: Tomoyuki Oka & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. HIKULEO & Yujiro Takahashi

Oka and Tenzan double teamed HIKULEO early. He fired off some forearms, but ran into an Oklahoma slam into the corner, then down to the canvas. HIKULEO peppered Oka with his own forearms.

Yujiro was now the legal man. He landed a big boot in the corner before tagging in HIKULEO. Oka slammed the big man down with a spinebuster and tagged in Tenzan. HIKULEO was on the receiving end of Mongolian chops.

Oka was back to being the legal man. He landed a judo throw, but ran into a lifting reverse STO from HiKULEO. Yujiro capitalize with a DDT for the three-count.

Winners: HIKULEO & Yujiro Takahashi

Singles Match: Manabu Nakanishi vs. Katsuya Kitamura

They tied up and the two soon engaged in a test of strength with shoulder blocks. Kitamura was the one to bring Nakanishi down. A chop exchange followed and Nakanishi ended it with a leg sweep. On the outside, Nakanishi threw his opponent to the guardrail.

Kitamura won out in a test of strength with a suplex. He brought his opponent down again with a shoulder blocked, followed by a powerslam. Nakanishi was hit with a spear for a near fall. He avoided the Jackhammer and landed his signature lariat. After a two-count.

Nakanishi went for a torture rack, but was blocked. Kitamura charged in, but was hit with a double ax handle. Nakanishi then applied the torture rack for the submission win.

Winner: Manabu Nakanishi

Six-Man Tag Match: Roppongi 3K (Sho, Yoh, & Rocky Romero) vs. TAKA Michinoku, El Desperado, & Yoshinobu Kanemaru

Before the bell rang TAKA, El Desperado, and Kanemaru went on the attack. Sho and Yoh quickly fought back and double teamed El Desperado. Yoh and El Desprado became the legal men. Yoh was dragged out of the ring by Kanemaru and thrown to the guardrail.

Yoh was thrown into chairs in the crowd. El Desperado worked on the injured back of Sho. He set up a table in the corner while they were in the crowd and rammed Sho’s back into it. Yoh was going to be counted out, but Rocky threw him back in the ring.

Yoh’s left leg became a target for his opponents. TAKA was tagged in and kept attacking the leg. Kanemaru did the same thing once he was the legal man. Finally, Yoh hit a dragon whip and tagged in Sho.

Sho was on a roll until he went for a German suplex on Kanemaru as his back gave out. He went for it again and hit it due to a surge of energy. He then went for a package piledriver, but Kanemaru hit a backdrop. Sho hit a spear and tagged in Rocky.

He hit his signature clotheslines on El Desperado and TAKA. He went for a hurricanrana on TAKA, but was reversed into a crossface. Sho and Yoh made the save. Rocky pinned TAKA with a backslide.

Winners: Roppongi 3K

After the match, Roppongi 3K was attacked by El Desperado, Kanemaru, and TAKA.

Six-Man Tag Match: Toa Henare, David Finlay, & Juice Robinson vs. Toru Yano, Tomohiro Ishii, & “Switchblade” Jay White

Finlay and White got the match started. White tagged Yano without engaging. Finlay decided to tag in Juice. Yano immediately tried to tie Juice’s hair to the top rope. Juice landed his signature punches, but Yano ran from the finishing blow and tagged in Ishii.

Henare tackled Ishii and made the tag. He peppered Ishii with forearms in the corner. He then mushed him with his boot. Too many of those just made Ishii angry. Ishii landed a series of chops and forearms.

White was tagged in and he immediately hit Finlay off the apron. He later spat at him. White threw Henare into the exposed corner and tagged in Yano. Henare fought back and knocked Ishii down with a lariat.

Finlay and White were the legal men. Finlay connected with a running European uppercut. He then hit it from the middle rope. White hit a Saito suplex. He went for another, but Finlay hit a ura-nage backbreaker.

White hit the Blade Runner on Henare. Instead of going for the pin, he left him unconscious with the elbows that put Finlay out last night. The bell sounded to signal the end of the match.

Winners: Toru Yano, Tomohiro Ishii, & “Switchblade” Jay White

Six-Man Tag Match: Ryusuke Taguchi, Michael Elgin, & Togi Makabe vs. Taichi, Takashi Iizuka, & Minoru Suzuki

Before the match, Makabe got on the mic and once again challenged Suzuki before attacking him. The bell rang and Suzuki looked pissed. Taguchi and Elgin took care of Taichi and Iizuka on the outside.

Taguchi and Taichi were tagged in while Suzuki and Makabe brawled near the backstage area. Makabe choke Suzuki while demanding a title shot. They returned to the outside of the ring and Suzuki hit Makabe with a chair.

Suzuki choked Makabe with a chair. Iizuka pelted Taguchi with a chair. Finally, the action was back in the ring with Taichi and Taguchi. Unsurprisingly, Taichi hit Taguchi with his hammer. Off went Taichi’s pants and he was nailed with a dropkick.

Iizuka bit Taguchi’s Funky Weapon! Finally, Elgin was tagged in. He hit the slingshot splash. Taichi tried making something happen, but was on the receiving end of a German suplex. Elgin bit Iizuka’s foot. Iizuka pulled out his rope, but Elgin blocked it. The two exchanged bits on the head.

Makabe and Suzuki were tagged in and exchanged forearms. Makabe hit his signature punches in the corner. He followed it up with a Northern Lights Suplex for a two-count.

Taguchi tried hitting the enzuigiri, but Suzuki caught the leg and submitted him with the heel hook.

Winners: Taichi, Takashi Iizuka, & Minoru Suzuki

After the match, Suzuki held onto the hold. Iizuka hit Elgin with the iron glove. Suzuki nailed Makabe with the Gotch Piledriver. Suzuki then grabbed a mic and refused Makabe’s challenge.

Six-Man Tag Match: Gedo, Will Ospreay, & Yoshi-Hashi vs. Bushi, Hiromu Takahashi, & Tetsuya Naito

Gedo, Ospreay, and Yoshi-Hashi went right after their opponents. Yoshi-Hashi and Naito went at it in the ring. Ospreay threw Hiromu into the guardrail. Bushi attacked Yoshi-Hashi from behind, but hit the canvas.

The action spilled to the outside. Hiromu chopped Ospreay’s chest, Bushi went after Gedo’s beard, and Naito stomped on Yoshi-Hashi. Bushi choked Yoshi-Hashi with his shirt inside the ring.

Naito was back in and he stomped on Yoshi-Hashi. He even spat on him. Some blood formed on the lip of Naito. He landed his trademark dropkick to the head.

Yoshi-Hashi kicked Hiromu and tagged in Ospreay. Naito and Hiromu tried double teaming Ospreay, but he landed a springboard backflip kick. Ospreay charged at Hiromu, but was flung to the corner.

Ospreay leaped over the top rope on to Naito and Hiromu. This allowed Yoshi-Hashi to nail Bushi with Karma for the three-count.

Winners: Gedo, Will Ospreay, & Yoshi-Hashi

After the match, Gedo swiped Bushi’s mask yet again. Yoshi-Hashi attacked Naito, who continued to walk off as if nothing was happening.

IWGP Tag Team Title Match: SANADA & EVIL (C) vs. Kazuchika Okada & Hirooki Goto

Okada and SANADA got the match underway. SANADA tried tying Okada up in the Paradise lock, but couldn’t get it yet. Okada hit an arm drag and tagged in Goto. They hit an elbow and back splash combo then did the CHAOS pose.

The action went to the outside. EVIL wrapped a chair around Goto’s neck and rammed him into the ring post. SANADA took care of Okada in the crowd. EVIL choked Goto with the bell hammer.

EVIL charged at the corner, but Goto got his boot up. He delivered a lariat and made the tag to Okada. EVIL threw him to the ropes, but was knocked down with an elbow. EVIL did his signature kick where he throws his opponent’s leg to the referee.

SANADA dumped Okada to the outside. He landed a slingshot over the top rope. He went for the TKO, but Okada countered into the cobra clutch. Okada countered the Skull End with his signature neckbreaker.

Goto went for the GTR, but EVIL stopped him. Okada nailed EVIL with a dropkick. SANADA hit the TKO on Okada. Goto hit the GTR on SANADA, but didn’t get all of it.

EVIL and SANADA looked for Magic Killer on Goto, but Okada stopped it. They simultaneously hit Ushigoroshi. SANADA sent Okada to the guardrail. EVIL couldn’t get Everything is EVIL.

SANADA went for Skull End, but Okada reversed. He went for the Rain Maker, but SANADA countered into his own Rain Maker. EVIL and SANADA hit Magic Killer on Goto. EVIL then nailed Goto with Everything is EVIL for the three-count.

Winners And STILL IWGP Tag Team Champions: EVIL & SANADA

After the match, SANADA grabbed a mic and said he’s going to take the IWGP Heavyweight title in Osaka. EVIL closed out the show saying he’s stronger than Goto and did his signature catchphrase.

Elimination Chamber: Updated Card Including Chamber Participants

Scott Lazara
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Monday’s WWE RAW saw two Superstars qualify for the men’s Elimination Chamber spot to pick up the 4th and 5th spots – Roman Reigns defeated Bray Wyatt and WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz defeated Apollo Crews.

Next week’s RAW from San Jose will see one Superstar pick up the 6th and final men’s Chamber spot as Wyatt, Crews, Matt Hardy and Finn Balor compete in a Second Chance Fatal 4 Way.

In other men’s Chamber news from tonight’s RAW, Elias defeated Braun Strowman and John Cena in the main event to earn the final entrance during the Chamber match. Elias now has the advantage of entering the Chamber last at #6.

RAW also saw General Manager Kurt Angle announce 5 female Superstars to challenge RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss in the first-ever women’s Chamber match – Mandy Rose, Sonya Deville, Sasha Banks, Bayley and Mickie James. Angle then announced Nia Jax vs. Asuka in singles action for the Chamber pay-per-view. Per the stipulations, Jax will earn a spot in the WrestleMania 34 RAW Women’s Title match to make it a Triple Threat with Asuka and the champion, if she wins the singles match at the Chamber pay-per-view.

The Elimination Chamber pay-per-view takes place on February 25th from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This will be the final RAW pay-per-view before WrestleMania 34. Below is the updated card coming out of tonight’s RAW:

Elimination Chamber to Crown a New WWE Universal Title #1 Contender
John Cena vs. Elias vs. Braun Strowman vs. Roman Reigns vs. WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz vs. TBA
Elias enters at #6. Winner faces WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 34.

First-Ever Women’s Elimination Chamber for the RAW Women’s Title
Bayley vs. Mandy Rose vs. Mickie James vs. Sonya Deville vs. Sasha Banks vs. Champion Alexa Bliss
Winner defends against Asuka or Asuka & Nia Jax at WrestleMania 34.

Asuka vs. Nia Jax
If Jax wins, she’s added to the title match at WrestleMania 34 to make it a Triple Threat with Asuka and the champion.

6 Takeaways From WWE RAW (2/5)

Robert Lentini
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17

The February 5, 2018 episode of WWE RAW aired live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA. Two more Superstars qualified for the men’s Elimination Chamber match and it was also determined who will enter the match last.

Here are 6 takeaways from this week’s episode of RAW:

Roman Reigns Qualified For Elimination Chamber

roman reigns
Roman Reigns (photo: WWE.com)

WWE RAW kicked off this week with Bray Wyatt cutting a promo backstage. Wyatt brought up how he won the WWE Championship in the Elimination Chamber last year and called Reigns his nemesis. Bray claimed to see Roman for who he truly is, “a failure that wants to be put out of his misery”.

Bray stated that he is happy to oblige. Roman responded and stated that a failure is someone that stays down when they get knocked down. Roman added that he has had his share of ups and downs, but that is a sign of a great journey and note failure. Reigns then said that his his road to WrestleMania concludes with a trip to Suplex City and that nobody will stop him.

Bray Wyatt faced Roman Reigns in a Elimination Chamber Qualifying match. Matt Hardy was shown backstage during the match watching on a monitor. Bray controlled the match early and sent Reigns into the steel steps as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Reigns battled back and connected with a Samoan Drop.

Wyatt went for a Suplerplex but Roman escaped and hit a Powerbomb for a two count. Wyatt avoided a Superman Punch and countered with a Uranage for a two count. Reigns then hit the Superman Punch and went for the cover but Bray kicked out. Wyatt avoided a Spear and hit the Sister Abigail for a close two count. Bray went for another Sister Abigail but Reigns fought back as the crowd booed. Roman then hit the Spear for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Matt Hardy appeared behind Bray Wyatt and planted him with the Twist of Fate.

Reigns and Wyatt had a good match tonight that brought out some “this is awesome!” chants from the crowd. The outcome of the match was pretty predictable and the fans started to reject it once they saw the end was near. Reigns qualifying for Elimination Chamber is no surprise. When he most likely wins the match it will be no surprise. I’m still baffled as to why the feud between Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt is so generic.

Jason Jordan Cost Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins 

Jason Jordan Reigns

Seth Rollins and Jason Jordan had a conversation backstage. Rollins wanted to make sure that Jordan was 100% healthy for their rematch for the RAW Tag Team Championships tonight. Jordan assured Rollins that he has been medically cleared and is ready to go.

Later on RAW, Seth Rollins approached Jason Jordan once again backstage. Jordan was with a member of WWE’s medical staff and Kurt Angle. Jordan informed Rollins that he couldn’t compete tonight. Rollins was pissed off and Angle stated that Rollins and Jordan will have to forfeit their match. Roman Reigns then showed up and Angle agreed to let Roman be Seth’s partner tonight.

Sheamus and Cesaro were pissed off about having to defend their RAW Tag Team Championships against Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins. Rollins and Reigns controlled the match early and trapped Cesaro in the corner. Sheamus leaped into the ring but was immediately knocked out by a Clothesline by Rollins. Seth went for a Suicide Dive but Sheamus caught him and planted him with an Irish Curse Backbreaker. Sheamus then launched Reigns into the barricade as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Sheamus and Cesaro were still in control and had Reigns trapped in the ring. Roman connected with a Superman Punch to Sheamus and then Jason Jordan came down to the ring to a chorcus of boos. Jordan got Rollins attention and Seth tagged into the match. Seth went on a run and knocked both Sheamus and Cesaro out of the ring. Rollins connected with a Suicide Dive to Cesaro that knocked him into the front row of the crowd.

Back in the ring, Cesaro perched Rollins up on the top turnbuckle and hit him with an uppercut. Seth rolled through and hit a Suplsex and followed it up with a Falcon Arrow for a two count. Jordan tripped up Cesaro and Rollins went for a roll-up for two. Reigns started yelling at Jordan to get out of here and that they got this. Cesaro and Sheamus tried to leave the ring and head backstage. Jordan tried to prevent them and wound up trading punches with Sheamus and Cesaro. Rollins and Reigns wound up getting disqualified because Jordan struck them.

After the match, Rollins and Jordan were shown arguing backstage. Kurt Angle broke it up after Rollins shouted that Jordan was a son of a bitch. Angle shouted at Jordan to go home until he is medically cleared. Jordan tried to say that Rollins cannot talk to him like that and Angle shouted “damn it go home!”. Jordan then walked away as Angle’s face was bright red with anger.

Jordan is hated at the crowd, but it seems to be for the right reason now. Being announced as Angle’s son was rejected by the WWE Universe. Jordan wound up getting eaten alive by the crowd every week as he struggled through his promos. At least now he is portraying an annoying and hatable character. The negativity directed at Jordan now is because of his actions, not just a total rejection from the audience. I’m interested to see where this storyline goes.

Bayley Stood Up To Sasha Banks & Had A Solid Match With Asuka

bayley

Bayley and Sasha Banks had a conversation backstage. Banks was convinced that she could defeat Asuka and vowed to win the Elimination Chamber match if RAW GM Kurt Angle puts her in the match. Bayley said that she was thinking the same thing and added that she was facing Asuka tonight. Banks essentially laughed in Bayley’s face and asked her if she really thought she could beat Asuka. Bayley replied “well I know I can beat you, and if you are good enough to beat Asuka so am I” and walked away.

It was nice to FINALLY see some fire and anger from Bayley here. I feel like most people have been waiting for that since she joined the main roster.

Bayley faced Asuka later on RAW. Bayley controlled the match early but Asuka shrugged off her attack and got right in her face. Asuka connected with an Arm Drag and a couple of kicks to Bayley’s back. Bayley punched Asuka in the face and knocked her out of the ring. Bayley brought Asuka back to the ring but Asuka got up and hit a Hip Attack that knocked Bayley to the floor. Asuka went to attack Bayley outside the ring but Bayley launched Asuka into the barricade as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned. Bayley connected with a Belly to Back Suplex for a two count. Bayley connected with a couple of elbows to Asuka’s back. Asuka battled back to her feet and hit Bayley with a series of forearms to the face. Asuka hit Bayley with a knee to the face and followed it up with a sliding knee to the face for a two count. Asuka went for a Dropkick off the top rope but Bayley got out of the way and connected with a knee of her own for a two count.

Bayley connected with a Neckbreaker on the apron and then booted Asuka in the face. Bayley tried to leap onto Asuka outside the ring but Asuka was ready and kneed Bayley in her face. The action returned to the ring and Asuka went for the cover but Bayley kicked out. Bayley went for the Bayley to Belly but Asuka reversed into an Arm Bar. Bayley escaped and went for a Clothesline but Asuka once again locked in the Arm Bar in the middle of the ring for the submission victory.

After the match, Asuka and Bayley shook hands.

This was the first time in a while on RAW where I thought Bayley actually stood out. I liked the backstage segment she had with Sasha Banks and she had a good match with Asuka tonight.

Bayley’s feud with Alexa Bliss last year was a disaster and it had a negative impact on her. Bliss’ beatdown of Bayley in the Kendo Stick on a pole match at WWE Extreme Rules 2017 was the icing on the cake. The whole build to the match was that Bayley was going to prove that she can get “Extreme” at Extreme Rules. What wound up happening is Bayley got squashed by Alexa Bliss at the PPV.

A week later, Bayley made it seem like losing in embarrassing fashion wasn’t a big deal and vowed to stay true to herself in a backstage interview with Corey Graves. She stated that “she wasn’t here to put bruises on people’s back, she was here to put smiles on people’s faces”. I remember that line because it was that bad. It was the exact opposite of what fans wanted to hear from her at the time. She then awkwardly asked Graves for a hug and it came off as pathetic. The crowd completely turned against her and she has never really recovered from it.

Hopefully WWE can continue to show that Bayley isn’t just a pushover and can hold her own in the ring like they did tonight. She was a pretty easy character to get behind in NXT and there really isn’t any reason for that not to translate to the main roster.

Kurt Angle Announced The Superstars In The Women’s Elimination Chamber Match

elimin chamber women

RAW GM Kurt Angle came down to the ring to announce the competitors in the first-ever women’s Elimination Chamber match. Kurt Angle announced that Alexa Bliss will defend her title against Bayley, Mandy Rose, Mickie James, Sonya Deville and Sasha Banks at Elimination Chamber match. Angle noted that Nia Jax was not in the match because she will be facing Asuka at the PPV. If Nia Jax wins that match, she will be added to the RAW Women’s Championship match at WrestleMania.

RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss came down to the ring and complained about Brock Lesnar not having to defend his title at the PPV. Bliss asked Kurt why she doesn’t get that privilege and accused Angle of being sexist. Angle said that Bliss was just trying to get out of her match. Angle asked the crowd if they wanted to see Alexa Bliss defend her RAW Women’s Championship at Elimination Chamber. Bliss then walked away as the entire crowd chanted “yes!”.

Kurt Angle had a big time brain fart during this segment and completely forgot the name of PPV and match. He finally remembered that it was Elimination Chamber and announced the participants. Alexa Bliss actually had a solid point here. It is silly that Brock Lesnar doesn’t have to defend the Universal Championship at the PPV. I also find it odd that Kurt Angle simply selected the Superstars that are going to be in the women’s Elimination Chamber match.

RAW is featuring all these qualifying matches for the men’s match. RAW is a pretty long show every week, I don’t quite get why there couldn’t be qualifying matches for both. It is just a random selection of Superstars thrown in this match while the men’s is getting weeks of build. It is just lazy to me.

The Miz Qualified For Elimination Chamber

the miz

IC Champion The Miz came down to the ring with Bo Dallas. The Miz boasted about defeating Roman Reigns twice in a row. The Miz then vowed to win the Elimination Chamber match. The Miz added that his daughter will be born before WrestleMania 34 and that she will get to see the first ever Intercontinental Universal Champion. The Miz then faced Apollo Crews in an Elimination Chamber Qualifying match.

The match started during a commercial break and Crews beatdown The Miz early as Dana Brooke and Titus O’Neil cheered Crews on. Crews slammed The Miz to the canvas and went for a standing Moonsault but Miz got his knees up. Crews battled back and slammed The Miz back to the mat. Crews hit the standing Moonsault this time and followed it up with a Standing Shooting Star Press for a two count. The Miz crotched Crews on the top rope and planted him with the Skull Crushing Finale for the pinfall victory.

The Miz now joins Roman Reigns, Elias, Braun Strowman and John Cena in the Elimination Chamber match. There is still one more Superstar that has to qualify for the match.

Elias Will Be The Final Superstar To Enter The Elimination Chamber

elias raw 2 5

John Cena, Elias and Braun Strowman faced off in the main event of RAW in a Triple Threat match. The winner of the match will be the final entrant in the Elimination Chamber match.

Elias rolled out of the ring right when the match started. Strowman knocked Cena to the mat and RAW went to break. When RAW returned, Elias was still avoiding Strowman and Cena. John tried to lift Braun up on his shoulders but he wound up collapsing under Strowman’s weight.

Strowman continued to dominate and beatdown Cena and Elias outside the ring. Elias and Cena teamed up for a bit and slammed Strowman into the ring post a couple of times. They then threw Strowman into the steel steps. Cena grabbed the steps and bashed Strowman in the face with them.

Elias smashed his guitar across the back of Strowman. Cena then planted Strowman with a massive Attitude Adjustment on the steel steps.

Elias attacked Cena from behind and brought him back into the ring. Elias connected with a Backbreaker for a two count. Elias controlled the match for the next couple of minutes before Strowman got back in the ring. Braun planted Cena with a Running Powerslam. Elias shoved Strowman out of the ring and then pinned Cena for the victory. Elias will now be the 6th and final Superstar to enter the Elimination Chamber match.

Strowman got back into the ring and planted Elias with a Running Powerslam. Braun hit another one to Cena and the crowd chanted for more. Strowman delivered another Powerslam to Elias and then posed for the crowd. The crowd chanted again and Braun hit Cena with yet another Powerslam. Strowman brought Elias back into the ring and hit a final Powerslam to Elias before RAW went off the air.

Braun Strowman is one of the most popular Superstars in WWE right now. The crowd is behind him and it was entertaining to watch Strowman play to the crowd tonight. He pointed at his ear so the crowd would get louder when he was delivering the Powerslams. They went along with it and enjoyed it. Elias is the heavy underdog in the Elimination Chamber match, but I feel like he is going to eliminate a big name or two at the PPV. It was also announced tonight that there will be Fatal 4-Way match next week with the Superstars that have already lost. Finn Balor will face Bray Wyatt, Apollo Crews and Matt Hardy to determine the final entrant in the men’s Elimination Chamber match.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (2/5)

Eric Lynch
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735

The February 5, 2018 edition of WWE RAW aired live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA.

– This week’s show opens up with Michael Cole welcoming us to the Wells Fargo Arena. He’s joined by Corey Graves and Jonathan Coachman.

– We immediately go backstage to Bray Wyatt, who talks about how he won the WWE Title in the Elimination Chamber last year. He says there’s just one person in his way: Roman Reigns. Wyatt says Reigns is his nemesis, and he says Reigns is a failure waiting to be put out of his misery.

– We cut to Roman Reigns for his reaction, and he says he has a different definition of failure. Reigns says he’s had his fair share of ups and downs, but when he gets knocked down he gets back up. Reigns says his road to WrestleMania 34 stops with a trip to Suplex City, not with Wyatt. Reigns says neither Wyatt or Lesnar can stop him from becoming the Universal Champion.

– Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns: This one is an Elimination Chamber qualifying match. The opening bell sounds and Wyatt backs the Big Dog into the corner early on. Reigns fires back with a shoulder block, and Wyatt taunts him and talks some trash. Reigns charges and Wyatt blocks him with a boot to the face. They continue to brawl up against the ropes, and Wyatt takes Reigns down for a two count. Matt Hardy is shown watching backstage as we see Reigns fights up to his feet. Reigns comes back with a big clothesline and Wyatt rolls outside for a breather. Reigns follows him outside and goes for the Drive By, but Wyatt counters it and drops The Big Dog. Wyatt beats down Reigns around ringside and whips him into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Reigns fights up and hits a Samoan Drop. Both men are slow to get up to their feet, but Reigns gets up first and unloads with strikes on Wyatt. Wyatt comes back with an elbow and drops Reigns. Wyatt tags Reigns up for a superplex, but Reigns headbutts him away. Reigns slides through the legs and powerbombs Wyatt down. Wyatt kicks out at 2, and then Reigns gears up for a Superman punch. Wyatt blocks it, and hits a side suplex, then a senton for a 2 count. Wyatt goes for the Sister Abigail but it’s blocked, and Reigns rolls him up for a 2 count. Reigns hits a superman punch for another 2 count. Reigns goes for the spear, but Wyatt blocks it with a boot to the face. Wyatt hits the Sister Abigail for a 2 count now. Wyatt follows up with some elbows, then goes for another Sister Abigail, but Reigns escapes. They run the ropes and Reigns hits the spear for the win.

Winner: Roman Reigns

– After the match, Matt Hardy hits the ring and waits for Wyatt to get up. Matt hits the Twist of Fate and then gets a “Delete” chant.

– We see Seth Rollins backstage with Jason Jordan. Rollins says this is their final shot to get the Tag Titles back from The Bar, and he says he wants to make sure Jordan doesn’t blow it this time. Jordan says he’s 100%, and that Rollins has nothing to worry about. Rollins says tonight is about what they can do together.

– We see some pre-taped promos from Mandy Rose & Goldust, Naomi & Jimmy Uso to promote this week’s Mixed Match Challenge.

– The Revival comes out to the ring and cut a promo challenging Finn Balor to a tag match.

– Finn Balor & Karl Anderson vs. The Revival: Gallows is at ringside for this one. Balor and Dash start this one off with Dash getting the upper hand. Dash and Dawson trade frequent tags now and take turns working over Balor’s shoulder. Balor finally comes back with a double foot stomp, then Anderson tags in. Anderson cleans house, then hits a suicide dive onto Dash at ringside. Back in the ring, Balor hits the running dropkick on Dawson, and follows up with the Coup De Grace. Balor covers for the three count after a short but competitive match.

Winners: Finn Balor & Karl Anderson:

– The Club celebrates their win after the match as The Revival heads to the back.

– Still to come, Kurt Angle reveals the first competitors for the Women’s Elimination Chamber.

– We see Sasha Banks backstage studying the tape of her loss to Asuka. Bayley walks in and asks for any tips for her match against Asuka tonight. Sasha declines because she wants to keep those secrets to herself. Bayley points out that the Elimination Chamber is every woman for herself just like the Royal Rumble was. Things get tense between Bayley and Sasha, then Bayley walks off.

– Cedric Alexander & Mustafa Ali vs. Tony Nese & Drew Gulak: Tony and ali start off, with Nese unloading with strikes. Ali turns it around and tags in Cedric, then they double team Nese. Nese comes back now and tags in Gulak to return the favor with a double team. Nese tags back in for another double team, then hits a big lariat on Cedric. Ali and Gulak tag in at the same time and go at it. Ali hits a Tornado DDT, but Nese breaksup the pin. Nese gets thrown outside, then Cedric hits a dive on him. Ali hits a crossbody on Gulak back in the ring, then Cedric tags in shortly after and hits a flying clothesline on Gulak. Cedric follows up with the Lumbar Check for the three count.

Winners: Cedric Alexander & Mustafa Ali

– Kurt Angle is shown backstage having a private conversation with Alexa Bliss. He’s on his way to the ring.

– RAW GM Kurt Angle is out to the ring next, and he starts announcing the contenders in the upcoming Women’s Elimination Chamber. He announces Alexa Bliss, Mickie James, Mandy Rose, Sonya Deville, Bayley and Sasha Banks. Angle also announces Asuka vs. Nia Jax in a singles match for the Chamber PPV, and if Jax wins she’ll be added to the RAW Women’s Title match with Asuka to make it a triple threat. Bliss comes out to the ring to interrupt. Bliss complains that she has to defend the Women’s Title in the Elimination Chamber, while the men’s Chamber match doesn’t have a Title on the line. Bliss says it’s sexist that she doesn’t get treated like Brock Lesnar, and accuses Kurt Angle of being a sexist. Kurt says it sounds like she’s trying to weasel out of the match, so he’s going to ask the crowd. He asks the fans if they want to see Bliss in the Chamber, and the crowd pops and chants “yes.” Bliss gets mad and leaves. As she’s leaving, Kurt asks the fans again, and they chant yes again. Bliss does not look happy.

– We see a pre-taped promo from John Cena who speculates about his road to WrestleMania. Cena talks about his Triple Threat match tonight, where he faces Strowman and Elias to earn a shot in the Elimination Chamber match.

– Also coming up tonight: The Miz vs. Apollo Crews in another Elimination Chamber qualifying match.

– Bayley vs. Asuka: The opening bell sounds and it’s all Asuka in the opening moments. She works on keeping Bayley grounded, then they stand up and trade strikes. Bayley finally starts firing up and sends Asuka outside, then follows up with a hurricanrana. They brawl around ringside some more before taking things back in the ring. Bayley fires up and hits a belly to back suplex. Asuka comes back and hits a running hip attack. Bayley drops Asuka’s throat over the middle rope and they briefly fight around the apron, until Asuka gets her back on the mat for a two count. Asuka follows up with a series of kicks to Bayley, but Bayley blocks one and rolls her up for a two count. They trade strikes in the middle, then Bayley goeso for the suplex but Asuka escapes. Asuka goes for the Asuka Lock, but Bayley escapes and rolls Asuka up for a two count. Asuka catches Bayley in an arm bar and Bayley taps out.

Winner: Asuka

– After the match, Asuka extends her hand to Bayley, and Bayley hesitates but does shake her hand.

– We see a pre-taped promo by The Bar, who says they’re going to take Rollins and Jordan’s heads off for good.

– The Miz comes down to the ring with Bo Dallas. Miz tells the fans to shut up and says the stars are aligned, and 2018 is the year of The Miz. The Miz reminisces over his victory over Roman Reigns, and says that was the highest-rated RAW in three years, which he takes credit for. The Miz says tonight he will qualify for the Elimination Chamber, and then will earn the right to face Lesnar at WrestleMania, and will become the first ever Intercontinental and Universal Champion. Apollo Crews comes out to interrupt, and we have a match.

– The Miz vs. Apollo Crews: This one is a qualifying match for the Elimmination Chamber. Dana Brooke, Titus O’Neil, and Dallas are at ringside. The opening bell sounds and Crews starts off strong. He hits a big vertical suplex on Miz for a two count. The Miz starts to fight back, but Crews shuts him down with a Gorilla Press Slam. Crews goes to follow up with a standing moonsault, but Miz blocks it with the knees. Crews fires back with kicks, then blocks a shot from Miz and hits a suplex. Crews hits a standing moonsault, and then a standing shooting star press for a two count on Miz. The ref backs Crews off Miz, and Miz hits a cheap shot to the knee. Miz drops Crews across the top rope, then hits the Skull Crushing Finale for the three count. The Miz is now going to the Elimination Chamber.

Winner: The Miz

– Seth Rollins is backstage with Kurt Angle and Jason Jordan, and there are trainers beside Jordan. Jordan reveals that he tweaked his neck, and he hasn’t been medically cleared to wrestle tonight. Rollins is furious that he doesn’t have a partner anymore, and Jordan apologizes. Rollins says the match is up next, and Kurt says he will have to forfeit. Rollins doesn’t look happy, but then Roman Reigns walks in and he cheers up. It looks like Reigns will join Rollins for his tag match against The Bar up next.

– The Bar (c) vs. Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns: The Bar’s Tag Titles are on the line in this one. Sheamus and Rollins start off, but Cesaro tags in shortly after. Cesaro gets the upper hand on Rollins, then hits a Europeann Uppercut. The Bar now trades frequent tags to double team Rollins and beat him down in the corner. Rollins fights back and tags in Reigns, who helps him double team Cesaro. Rollins goes for a suicide dive on Sheamus at ringside, but Sheamus catches him and hits a backbreaker. Meanwhile in the ring, Cesaro hits a running European uppercut on Reigns. The Bar has now taken over this one. Sheamus now works over Reigns in the corner, and Cesaro hits a cheap shot behind the ref’s back. Cesaro tags back in now, and Sheamus cheap-shots Reigns next. Rollins and Sheamus go at it at ringside now, while Reigns starts firing up back in the ring. Reigns tries to fight off The Bar, but they overpower him and hit the double team White Noise for a two count. Sheamus knocks Rollins off the apron now, and Reigns hits Superman punch on Sheamus. Jason Jordan runs down to ringside and helps Rollins get back on the apron. Rollins tags in and starts cleaning house. Rollins hits a suicide dive and a slingshot leg drop over the top rope, then he follows up with a suicide dive on Cesaro that sends Cesaro falling into the front row. Back in the ring, Rollins goes for a Curb Stomp, but Cesaro escapes. Rollins hits a suplex next, and then a Falcon Arrow for a two count. Jordan trips Cesaro from the floor, which leads to Rollins hits a superkick on Cesaro. Roman Reigns gets in Jordan’s face at ringside now, and tells him to leave, because they got this. Meanwhile in the ring, Rollins hits a knee to Cesaro and then a superkick on Sheamus. Reigns tags in and prepares to double team Sheamus with Rollins, but Cesaro pulls Sheamus outside to safety. Sheamus and Cesaro get their title belts and look to start walking away, but Jason Jordan gets in their way and they start brawling. The ref sees, and calls for the bell. Reigns and Rollins win via DQ, so the Titles don’t change hands.

Winners: Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins via DQ

– We see a selfie video promo from Braun Strowman now, who says he will be the last one standing at both Elimination Chamber at WrestleMania. He tells Cena and Elias to get ready to “get these hands” tonight.

– More pre-taped promos for the Mixed Match Challenge.

– Seth Rollins confronts Jason Jordan in the back, and yells that he only thinks about himself. He calls Jordan a son of a bitch, and Kurt Angle interrupts. Angle tells Jordan to go cool off, and then sends Jordan home. He tells Jordan to stay home until he’s medically cleared, and yells at Jordan to leave.

– Nia Jax vs. A jobber: The enhancement talent is already in the ring as Nia makes her entrance. The unnamed jobber connects with some strikes early, but she gets dropped by Nia. Nia hits a splash in the corner, then throws the jobber down again. She hits a running splash on the jobber for the win afer a short match.

Winner: Nia Jax

– After the match, Nia does an interview in the ring where she says she’s going to mess up Asuka’s “pretty little face,” and her have to wear the mask to hide her face after Nia ges her hands on her.

– Mickie James vs. Sonya Deville: Absolution is at ringside with Sonya. Mickie starts off strong, but Sonya shuts her down with strikes. Mandy Rose gets on the apron, and the distraction leads to Sonya slamming Mickie down off the top rope. Sonjya follows up with kicks on Mickie in the ring, and drops her for a two count. More knee strikes from Sonya, but Mickie fights up to her feet and hits a rollup on Sonjya for the three count out of nowhere.

Winner: Mickie James

– After the match, Absolution starts beating down Mickie. Alexa runs down and pulls Mickie out of the ring for the save. Mickie and the announcers are all confused as to why Alexa saved Mickie.

– Elias is backstage tuning up his guitar.

– Elias is out to the ring next for a song. He sings a song taking shots at Strowman and Cena, and also Universal Champion Brock Lesnar. He’s finally interrupted by Cena making his entrance.

– John Cena vs. Elias vs. Braun Strowman: This one is under Triple Threat rules. The opening bell sounds and the three size each other up. Elias rolls outside as Cena and Braun go at it. Braun drops Cena while Elias observes from the floor. Strowman finally follows Elias outside, and Elias and Cena end up double teaming Strowman. They drive Braun into the ring post a couple times, and Braun is down to one knee. They drive him into the ring steps now, and Strowman goes down. Cena picks up the steps and hits Braun with them, and Elias hits Braun with the guitar, but Strowman still gets to his feet. Cena hits the AA onto the ring steps at ringside on Strowman, then Elias turns on Cena and hits him from behind. Elias brings Cena int othe ring and stomps on him, as the fans duel chants for Elias and Cena. Elias hits a backbreaker for a 2 count, while Strowman sells the AA at ringside. Cena fights his way up and hits the flying shoulders and back drop on Elias. Cena goes for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Strowman runs in and grabs Cena for a running powerslam. Braun hits the powerslam on Cena but then goes for one on Elias an Elias escapes. Elias kicks Strowman out of the ring, then steals the pin on Cena for the three count. Elias has now earned a spot in the Elimination Chamber.

Winner: Elias

– After the bell, Strowman immediately hits the ring and slams Elias. Braun hits another running powerslam on Cena. The crowd chants for one more, and Strowman gives one more powerslam to Elias. Strowman poses on the corner but hte crowd is still chanting for more . Strowman steps back down to the mat and hits another powerslam on Cena, then another on Elias. Braun’s music hits and he leaves as RAW goes off the air.

Two Big Matches Official For Tonight’s RAW

Jon Fuentes
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17

WWE posted a video in which they confirm two big matches set to go down on tonight’s episode of Monday Night RAW from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa. One of the matches includes a Triple Threat match between Braun Strowman, John Cena, and Elias. The winner of that match will have the advantage of entering into the Elimination Chamber match last.

The other match is a RAW Tag Team Title rematch between The Bar (Sheamus and Cesaro) against Seth Rollins and Jason Jordan. Also confirmed for the show is an Elimination Chamber qualifying match between Roman Reigns and Bray Wyatt. Make sure to keep it locked here at SEScoops for live coverage of tonight’s show.

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