The Superstars of WWE shined during the Christmas Day NFL games on Netflix, ahead of WWE Raw’s move to the streaming juggernaut next month. On X, Liv Morgan shared that she was having a great time watching the Baltimore Ravens face the Houston Texans.
CM Punk was dressed to impress at NFL On Netflix. The Best in the World’s first WWE TV match in over a decade will see him face Seth Rollins on the January 6, 2025, Raw debut on Netflix.
Viewers were also treated to a new ad for WWE on Netflix, featuring top names including Cody Rhodes, Rey Mysterio, Jey Uso, GUNTHER, and interestingly, Becky Lynch.
WWE has a loaded show planned for Raw’s debut on Netflix, including Punk Vs. Rollins, Roman Reigns Vs. Solo Sikoa, and Morgan defending her Women’s World Championship against Rhea Ripley. Fans outside the U.S. won’t just receive Raw, but SmackDown, WWE NXT, and Premium Live Events (PLEs) as well.
WWE’s impending debut on Netflix is a huge deal for the wrestling promotion, as is having a presence at the NFL On Netflix Christmas Day festivities. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE’s move to the streaming juggernaut that will kick off a huge year for the promotion.
ROH World Champion Chris Jericho has confirmed that he’ll be wrestling at the final episode of AEW Rampage this Friday.
Anthony Bowens of The Acclaimed had challenged The Learning Tree for a singles match at last Saturday’s Collision after Jericho and his teammates interrupted the Costco Guys. The current champion at the time had refused to fight.
The wrestling veteran, however, granted Bowens’ wish in a segment on the Christmas special of Dynamite. Standing on 34th Street in New York, Chris Jericho announced that he’ll face the former tag champion at the December 27 Rampage:
#ROH World Champion Chris Jericho presents another 'New York Minute' as he has one more gift to give in the form of a match this Friday at #AEWRampage!
AEW’s TV rights renewal deal with WBD brought some big changes for the company. This included the end of AEW exclusivity with the network, allowing Tony Khan to negotiate with other TV channels for potential new programs.
The exclusion of Rampage in the announcement of the new deals also made fans curious. The AEW president has since confirmed that the show will be going on a hiatus and that the December 27 episode of Rampage will be the final episode of the Friday Night show ‘for the foreseeable future.’
AEW already taped the upcoming episode from Hammerstein Ballroom earlier in the week. You can check out the spoiler results for the final Rampage here.
Taz has returned to AEW TV after a couple months of absence.
The veteran wrestler and broadcast personality had been on hiatus from AEW programming after being attacked backstage during the Dynamite 5-year anniversary special in October.
Taz’s son HOOK continued the storyline in his absence, hunting the people who attacked his father. This led to him feuding with The Patriarchy when Christian Cage was revealed as the man responsible.
The wrestling veteran then returned to TV during the taped December 25 episode of AEW Dynamite from the iconic Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City:
In reality, the storyline attack was done to allow Taz to take time off for a total knee replacement surgery, a procedure he’d been putting off for some time.
Taz joined the AEW broadcast team full-time in January 2020, after previously having made multiple guest appearances for the company. He has been a regular on AEW TV ever since.
Apart from Taz’s return, the latest Dynamite episode featured a couple of big continental classic matches including a highly praised bout between Will Ospreay and Brody King.
The young prospect Toni Storm made her Hammerstein Ballroom debut in a match against Taya Valkyrie. Storm picked up the victory with a small package.
Netflix enlisted John Cena to bring Santa Claus to life in a festive and comedic twist during its NFL Christmas Gameday preshow on December 25, 2024. The promotional video, which kicked off the pregame festivities, featured Cena’s Santa grappling with the challenges of fulfilling the NFL’s Christmas “wish list.”
In the lighthearted sketch, Cena’s Santa lamented the modern-day difficulties of his job, including the dwindling number of fireplaces and chimneys in today’s homes. The humorous segment set a playful tone for Netflix’s inaugural foray into live-streamed NFL games, blending holiday cheer with the excitement of live sports.
This creative collaboration wasn’t just for laughs—it underscored Netflix’s bold expansion into live sports broadcasting. The Christmas Day lineup showcased two highly anticipated matchups: the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans. The preshow and games marked a new holiday tradition for Netflix, offering football fans a unique way to celebrate Christmas.
Cena’s turn as Santa Claus was part of a star-studded event that also included performances by music icons Mariah Carey and Beyoncé, as well as appearances from comedians Bert Kreischer and Nate Bargatze.
The fun doesn’t stop there for Cena on Netflix. Starting January 6, 2025, WWE Raw will debut on the platform, with Cena headlining the first night and making multiple appearances throughout the year as part of his 2025 retirement tour.
Christmas Day has arrived, and people around the world are unwrapping gifts from their loved ones. For the Superstars of WWE, nothing compares to the gift of a championship victory, and a few have had the honor of capturing gold on December 25.
Jason Jordan and Seth Rollins – WWE Raw Tag Team Championships
On the Christmas Day 2017 edition of WWE Raw, Jason Jordan and Seth Rollins defeated The Bar to claim the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships. While both were experienced champions in their own right, this marked the first—and only—reign for the unlikely duo as a team.
Their reign lasted 34 days before ending at the 2018 Royal Rumble, where they dropped the titles back to Cesaro and Sheamus. Unfortunately, this championship win would also be Jordan’s last, as injuries later forced him into retirement. Today, Jordan remains a key figure in WWE as a producer.
Rusev – WWE United States Championship
The December 25, 2018 edition of WWE SmackDown was a celebration of not just one but three special occasions. On Christmas Day, Rusev captured the United States Championship, a victory that coincided with both his birthday and the fan-favorite “Rusev Day.”
This marked Rusev’s third reign as U.S. Champion, which ended at the 2019 Royal Rumble when Shinsuke Nakamura reclaimed the title. Though this victory would be Rusev’s final championship in WWE, the Bulgarian Brute ensured it was a memorable one.
Big E – WWE Intercontinental Championship
In 2020, Big E cemented his solo career during the Christmas Day edition of WWE SmackDown. On that night, he silenced Sami Zayn’s claims of conspiracies by defeating him to win the Intercontinental Championship for the second time.
Big E’s reign lasted 106 days, culminating in a loss to Apollo Crews at WrestleMania 37: Sunday in April 2021. This triumph was only a preview of his future success, as Big E ended the same year as WWE Champion.
Christmas Day has finally arrived and the stars of pro wrestling are enjoying the festive season with their families and loved ones. Some wrestlers have taken to X to share their festive spirit, including Rhea Ripley, who wished a Merry Christmas to her fellow Aussies.
WWE NXT Tag Team Champion Nathan Frazer was pleased to celebrate with the title he currently holds with Axiom. The pair’s next challengers were decided on this week’s WWE NXT.
Despite being on the naughty list, Bronson Reed wants Santa to bring him a World Championship in 2025, and vowed to get it himself if Kris Kringle won’t oblige.
Dear Santa, I know I'm on the naughty list. Let's be honest that won't change. But I can be your favorite bad boy. Now, this christmas im out with an injury… but I know what I want for next Christmas! Kris, old mate. If you can't get it done, I'll do it by myself!#WWEpic.twitter.com/dpbHHOENQd
Zelina Vega is pleased to be sharing the Holidays with her husband, AEW’s Malakai Black. The Dutch wrestler has updated the couple’s wedding rings, and asked Vega “Will you continue to be my wife for the rest of our lives?”
Best Christmas ever ? I’m so blessed to have you @malakaiblxck ?
As we approach 2025, the WWE landscape is set for some exciting changes and potential blockbuster moments. From surprise returns to epic showdowns, here’s what fans might expect in the coming year.
Brock Lesnar’s Potential WWE Return
Despite rumors of Brock Lesnar’s 100% departure and retirement, speculation about his return continues to circulate. Sources suggest that if Lesnar does make a comeback, 2025 could be his final year as an in-ring performer.
This potential last run could set up some dream matches and memorable moments for the Beast Incarnate.
Prediction: Brock Lesnar WILL return to WWE in 2025
WrestleMania 41 Main Event Predictions
WrestleMania 41, set to take place on April 19-20, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. The main event predictions are generating significant buzz:
Night 1 could feature CM Punk facing Seth Rollins in a highly anticipated clash. This match has the potential to be a show-stealer and a fitting main event for the first night of WrestleMania.
For Night 2, a match for the WWE Championship involving The Rock and Cody Rhodes is being speculated. This star-studded affair would undoubtedly be a fitting conclusion to the Showcase of the Immortals.
Prediction: CM Punk vs Seth Rollins will main event WrestleMania Night 1 and The Rock vs Cody Rhodes main events Night 2
Royal Rumble 2025 Surprises
The Royal Rumble, scheduled for February 1, 2025, is expected to be one of the most star-studded in recent memory. Our Predictions include:
Rhea Ripley potentially becomes the first woman to win the Royal Rumble match twice.
Roman Reigns enters the 2025 Royal Rumble match, but CM Punk eventually wins to set up a WrestleMania match with Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Title.
SummerSlam 2025 Predictions
Looking further into 2025, SummerSlam is generating excitement with potential matchups such as:
Bianca Belair vs. Jade Cargill, promising a thrilling women’s championship clash when Cargill is eventually back.
A possible showdown between Roman Reigns and The Rock, which has been highly anticipated since their previous encounters were postponed.
Other Notable WWE 2025 Predictions
John Cena vs Bron Breakker: A potential match-up that could see Cena capture the Intercontinental Championship.
Drew McIntyre vs Gunther: A clash for the World Heavyweight Championship that could headline a PLE show.
Randy Orton vs Kevin Owens: A rivalry that might culminate in a match at WrestleMania 41.
Sami Zayn has revealed which classic championship design he would like to bring back.
The Bloodline star recently had an interview with Battleground podcast. He discussed things such as his wrestling journey with Kevin Owens, Raw’s move to Netflix, and more.
While discussing Saturday Night’s Main Event and the return of the Winged Eagle WWE Championship, Sami was asked which classic title design he would like to bring back. A former Intercontinental Champion himself, Zayn noted how a lot of people have an affinity to the white-strapped IC title:
“I know a lot of folks, I’m probably not unique in saying this, but a lot of folks have an affinity for that early 90s Intercontinental Championship, the classic one that you think of Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart and Mr Perfect. A lot of people have an affinity for that.”
Sami Zayn recalled how Cody Rhodes had brought the title design back during his 2011 reign and he was the one who actually retired it. The Honorary Uce then also revealed that he has a special place in his heart for the classic WWE tag team championship:
“I know Cody Rhodes brought that back several years ago. Actually I think I was the one who retired it. When I was managing Shinsuke Nakamura. He held that title and I was like ‘All right! Out with the old, in with the new.’ I actually introduced this new championship.
I like the new Championship but people just have a special place in their hearts for that one. So I wouldn’t mind seeing that one back but actually a championship that I really liked was the old WWE World Tag Team Championships. Fan of those ones.
I know the ones over on Smackdown currently kind of have a little element of that to them. It does have a similar shape. So that’s kind of cool but I was partial to that, the late 90s Tag Team Championships there. I thought they were really cool.”
Sami Zayn finds his wrestling journey with Kevin Owens surreal.
The Honorary Uce recently had an interview with the Battleground podcast. He discussed things such as Raw moving to Netflix, which old title he’d like to bring back and more.
When asked about Kevin Owens’ Saturday Night’s Main Event match with Cody Rhodes and his post-match attack on the Undisputed Champion, Zayn first noted how seeing the banned package piledriver on a WWE show was a crazy moment.
Sami Zayn then reflected on his long wrestling journey with Kevin Owens. He discussed how seeing the former Universal Champion performing on such a big stage was a surreal moment for him:
“If we really stop and think about it, considering we started together some 20 years ago in little church basements and community centers in Quebec, to all of a sudden see him standing [on] Saturday Night’s Main Event, holding the Winged Eagle title over the champion. I mean, that’s kind of surreal when you really stop and think about it.”
The Bloodline member mentioned how always being in the middle of the action makes it hard for someone like him to stop and appreciate his journey. Seeing Kevin Owens, who has been on this path with him since the beginning, however, helps him realize how far they’ve actually come:
“I think sometimes, I’m sure he would say the same about me, but seeing it with Kevin sometimes opens my eyes more than when I’m doing it myself. Because, you’re on your own little path, and you’re on the hamster wheel and you’re focused on what you’re doing.
But if you’re lucky enough to have someone who’s been with you on the ride from the jump, like I have Kevin, or he’s got me, it’s like this constant reminder, like, ‘Man, I remember that guy when he was here. Now he’s doing this,’ it is wild. It’s a crazy story.”
Sami Zayn suffered a loss to Drew McIntyre at Saturday Night’s Main Event, extending his losing streak against the Scottish Psychopath. Though it doesn’t appear that McIntyre is done with the Bloodline just yet and he’s claimed that there are 4 more names he has to take revenge from.
During the interview, Ali also talked about his new wrestling school called Chicago Wrestling Center starting in January 2025, and revealed what advice he would give to anyone who desires to become a pro wrestler.
The 38-year-old first explained that there is ‘never a good time for anything’ and one should find ways to do something if they really want to. He also explained the importance of physical fitness for anyone who wants to enter the business:
“The advice I would give to people that are planning on going to a wrestling school is, I don’t want to say workout, but it’s intense. You have to realize someone else’s life is literally in your hands when you’re picking them up and you’re running and this and that.
So fatigue and weakness from a physical standpoint is very dangerous, both to you and your partner. So I would say that would be my biggest advice, and then be prepared for the mental challenge.”
Continuing the conversation Mustafa Ali noted that his school will not be one of those establishments that take your money even when they don’t see any potential.
Per the former X Division Champion, this school is a passion project for him rather than a financial one and he’ll be screening the applications carefully to find the candidates who really want to train with him.
You can check out Mustafa Ali’s full interview below:
Santa Claus may be exceptionally busy this time of year, but Kris Kringle still managed to make an appearance on the latest episode of WWE NXT. During the December 24 show, the Christmas Chaos fatal four-way tag match featured Hank Walker and Tank Ledger, the No Quarter Catch Crew’s Tavion Heights and Myles Borne, The D’Angelo Family’s Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo and Luca Crusifino, and OTM’s Bronco Nima and Lucien Price.
The action-packed match saw all four teams vying for control. Hank and Tank were eliminated from the equation after interference from Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe. As victory seemed within reach for The D’Angelo Family, a surprise appearance by “Santa Claus” interrupted matters. This not-so-jolly Saint Nick attacked Tony D’Angelo, distracting his allies and creating an opening for OTM. Bronco Nima and Lucien Price capitalized on the chaos, securing the win.
Santa was later unmasked to reveal Ridge Holland, who appears to have his sights set on the NXT North American Championship. Meanwhile, OTM’s win positions them as the next challengers for the NXT Tag Team Champions, Fraxiom. Nathan Frazer and Axiom, currently in their second reign, have held the titles since August and boast an impressive combined reign of over 230 days.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from WWE NXT and what awaits Fraxiom now that new challengers have been crowned.
Lee Fitting’s standing in WWE seems to have not been affected by the recent reports about his departure from ESPN.
People on social media claimed that Fitting’s name was removed from the end credit of WWE shows following a new report about his ESPN departure and he was not mentioned on the December 23 episode of Raw.
This statement is misleading, however, as Fitting had not been credited on the Raw broadcast in a number of episodes preceding the article in question. Furthermore, the WWE executive was listed as a producer on the December 24 episode of NXT in his usual spot with Shawn Michaels and Triple H:
Lee Fitting was credited at the end of December 24 NXT as usual. @PWInsidercom notes that WWE was aware of ESPN allegations before bringing him in pic.twitter.com/ypaNePIW6j
— Anutosh Bajpai || SEScoops || Wrestling News (@AuthorAnutosh) December 25, 2024
PWinsider also provided an update on his status revealing that WWE officials were actually aware of the circumstances leading to Fitting’s departure from ESPN when he was brought on board in January this year.
A report from the New York Times earlier this month detailed the circumstances of the end of Fitting’s 25-year run with the media giant. It said that the current WWE Production Head was let go following allegations of workplace misconduct with claims that he created a hostile work environment for female employees.
Overall, it doesn’t appear that the surfacing of the allegations have changed Fitting’s status with the company and he continues to work in his regular capacity.
The three men met in a segment on the December 24 episode of the Black & Silver show. After an exchange of words, Williams suggested a triple-threat match for the upcoming special. NXT GM Ava then came out to make the match official.
After the announcement, Thorpe tried to sneak attack Trick but the NXT champion moved out of the way and Eddy caught Oba Femi instead. The three stars then brawled and the segment ended with Femi laying down Williams while Thorpe managed to slip away.
This is the second championship match to be confirmed for the upcoming show. Giulia previously earned a shot at Roxanne Perez’s NXT Women’s Title after winning the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge match.
NXT New Year’s Evil will be taking place from the Shrine Expo Hall in Los Angeles, California on January 7, 2025.
Joe Tessitore continues to receive stellar reviews for his seamless transition to the WWE Universe. After three months into bis role as the new voice of WWE Raw, legendary commentator Jim Ross says Tessitore has exceeded his expectations.
Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Ross commended Tessitore’s impressive career path, highlighting his roles with both ESPN and WWE. “He’s built himself a nice business, hasn’t he? He’s making some serious money,” Ross remarked. “Gotta be making some big money with ESPN and WWE, two great clients to have if you’re an announcer.”
Ross also lauded Tessitore’s quick development in WWE, admitting he’s exceeded expectations. “He does a better job than I thought he ever would this early, to be honest with you. So they made a good hire there,” Ross said. He added that Tessitore’s success is rooted in genuine enthusiasm for wrestling. “I didn’t know he was a wrestling fan. You can’t be as successful as he’s been and as informative, timely, etc., without being a fan.”
Concluding his praise, Ross noted how Tessitore’s skills align perfectly with WWE’s needs. “Looks like they’re building their announcer base. It’s a good fit for them. Joe does a nice job, and I’m proud that he’s representing our trade as well as he is.”
Tessitore, known for his work in college football, boxing, and Monday Night Football, has infused a fresh energy into WWE commentary. His adaptability and storytelling have resonated with fans and industry veterans alike, proving his ability to thrive in this new environment.
With Jim Ross’s endorsement, Tessitore’s reputation as a top-tier announcer continues to grow. As he navigates his WWE journey, fans are excited to see how his distinct voice will shape the future of wrestling entertainment.
Lexis King has become the new NXT Heritage Cup Champion thanks to some help from none other than William Regal.
King challenged Regal’s son and the reigning champion Charlie Dempsey for the title at this week’s NXT. Nobody got the upper hand in the first round of the match while Dempsey dominated round two. The third round of the bout then took place during the commercial break with nothing notable happening.
King started dominating the fourth round of the match from the beginning before Charlie came back with some offense of his own. Toward the ending of the bout, Wren Sinclair got into the ring to wake up a knocked-out Dempsey, allowing Regal to offer the Brass Knuckles to Lexis King.
When King refused to take the weapon, William Regal hit him with it without the referee seeing him. Regal then threw the Brass Knuckles to his son. Unfortunately for Dempsey, the referee saw him holding the Knuckles and disqualified him, making King the new champion.
This ends Charlie Dempsey’s second reign with the Heritage Cup at 126 days. He had won the title by defeating Tony D’Angelo back in May. King on the other hand, starts his first reign with a title since joining the NXT brand in July 2023.
Charlotte Flair is edging closer to her return to WWE, and fans may witness a revamped version of The Queen upon her comeback.
Flair’s last match occurred on the December 8th, 2023, episode of SmackDown, where she suffered a devastating knee injury during a bout against Asuka. The injury, which involved a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus, required immediate surgery, sidelining her indefinitely. Initial reports suggested Flair wouldn’t step back into the ring until at least 2024.
Recent developments, however, hint at a sooner-than-expected return. Flair was recently spotted training alongside a former WWE star, sparking speculation about her comeback. Additionally, her name has been floated in connection with a marquee match at WrestleMania, suggesting that her return could be tied to a high-profile storyline.
A New Side of The Queen?
According to insights shared on the Backstage Pass podcast, WWE may be planning a shift in Charlotte Flair’s character. WrestleVotes revealed that Flair’s presentation could embrace an intensified version of her Queen persona.
The 14-time World Champion will have a different presentation when she returns to WWE than fans are used to seeing from her. She’ll be leaning into a ‘dark queen’ aura, with Wrestlevotes hinting, “Maybe like a little Seth Rollins-esque flair in her attire. She’ll just be turned up a little volume-wise.”
This potential transformation aligns with WWE’s pattern of evolving its top stars, giving Flair an opportunity to refine her regal character with a darker, edgier twist.
Rumors also suggest that WWE might be holding off Flair’s return to coincide with significant upcoming events, such as the debut of Raw on Netflix. If true, this would position Flair’s comeback as a major moment, tied to a broader effort to captivate both loyal fans and new audiences.
Whatever the exact plans, Charlotte Flair’s return promises to be a pivotal moment for WWE, showcasing a renewed energy and focus on one of its biggest stars. Fans can expect a compelling evolution of The Queen that could redefine her legacy in the squared circle.
WWE has opted not to tape its annual Tribute to the Troops special this year, marking the first time since the event’s inception in 2003 that the company has skipped the broadcast entirely. This has raised questions about the future of the event, which has historically been a significant part of WWE’s programming during the holiday season.
The decision comes during a year of substantial change within WWE’s leadership, leaving the status of Tribute to the Troops uncertain. While the promotion hasn’t made an official announcement about the event’s discontinuation, its absence has been noticeable. Historically, even in years like 2019 when no televised special aired, WWE still held live events to honor the troops. This year, however, no such activity has been reported.
The event is widely considered a Vince McMahon-driven initiative, originally proposed by WWE Hall of Famer John “Bradshaw” Layfield. The concept took shape in 2003, with WWE holding shows at military bases abroad until 2009. From 2010 onward, the event transitioned to domestic venues in the U.S.
The last notable mention of Tribute to the Troops came on the December 8, 2023, episode of SmackDown, which included a tribute-themed presentation but was not a dedicated event. With McMahon no longer at the helm, the show appears to have quietly faded from WWE’s calendar, further suggesting that it may no longer align with the company’s current direction.
As Christmas Day nears, WWE’s Drew McIntyre has delivered a festive yet fierce message by parodying the beloved 2003 romantic comedy Love Actually.
In the original film, Mark (played by Andrew Lincoln) silently confesses his love to Juliet (Keira Knightley) through a series of handwritten cards, accompanied by the song “Silent Night.” McIntyre’s playful spoof mirrors this iconic scene, but with his own WWE twist.
The multi-time World Champion uses the cue cards to send a pointed warning to The Bloodline, who made a surprise appearance on Monday’s WWE Raw and stuck their nose in McIntyre’s business.
Instead of Christmas carols playing in the background, like in the movie, Seth Rollins’ entrance theme sets the scene for McIntyre delivering a sequence of cheeky and ominous messages.
“Say it’s smart marks.”
“With any luck, by next year…
“One of these will be world champion.”
The video hilariously cuts to images of multiple Drew McIntyres before continuing:
“But for now, let me say…
“Without hope or agenda…
“Just because I’m Drew McIntyre (and Drew McIntyre always tells the truth)…
“The Bloodline will pay for their crimes.”
“And no one is getting in my way, even if I have to look like this…”
At this point, McIntyre reveals a comical depiction of himself sporting Cody Rhodes’ signature neck tattoo—a nod to Kevin Owens’ recent mockery of the tattoo during an invasion of WWE headquarters.
The video concludes with a final holiday-themed message:
“Merry Drewmas.”
McIntyre caps it off with a wink and a humorous imitation of Seth Rollins’ entrance before walking off, leaving fans both entertained and intrigued about what’s to come in his feud with The Bloodline.
In 2024, several WWE superstars have maintained a perfect record inside the squared circle, but one name from TNA Wrestling has also joined this elite group.
Trey Miguel, a standout talent in TNA, currently shares the spotlight with WWE legends like The Rock and John Cena by boasting a 100% winrate this year. Let’s dive into the list of wrestlers who remain undefeated in 2024.
#
Wrestler
Matches
Wins
Win Percentage
1
Gable Steveson
5
5
100.00%
2
Humberto
2
2
100.00%
3
John Cena
1
1
100.00%
4
Nikki Cross
1
1
100.00%
5
The Rock
1
1
100.00%
6
Trey Miguel
3
3
100.00%
The NXT and TNA Crossover
The collaboration between NXT and TNA began to take shape in mid-2024, with both promotions aiming to enhance their programming and offer fresh matchups. This alliance led to several notable inter-promotional appearances:
Jordynne Grace’s NXT Debut: TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace made a significant impact by appearing on NXT, setting up a champion vs. champion match against NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez at NXT Battleground.
The Rascalz Reunion: Former TNA stablemates Wes Lee, Trey Miguel, and Zachary Wentz reunited on NXT, competing in six-man tag team matches and reigniting their chemistry.
Trey Miguel in WWE
As part of this crossover, TNA’s Trey Miguel participated in several WWE events:
NXT Matches: Miguel, alongside The Rascalz, competed in multiple matches on NXT, including a victory over Gallus in a six-man tag team match.
Slammiversary Appearance: The Rascalz continued their momentum by defeating NXT’s No Quarter Catch Crew at TNA’s Slammiversary event, further solidifying the crossover’s success.
Trey Miguel Shines with a Perfect Record
Trey Miguel, known for his high-flying style and dynamic in-ring ability, has had a stellar run in 2024. Competing in 3 matches on the WWE NXT brand, Miguel has maintained a 100% winrate.
His flawless record places him alongside some of WWE’s most iconic superstars, proving that his talent extends far beyond the TNA ring.
Trey Miguel’s Matches in WWE this Year
#
Date
Promotion
Match
Time
1
03.09.2024
NXT
The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz) defeat Hank And Tank (Hank Walker & Tank Ledger) and Gallus (Mark Coffey & Wolfgang)
10:58
2
23.07.2024
NXT
The Rascalz (Trey Miguel, Wes Lee & Zachary Wentz) defeat Axiom, Je’Von Evans & Nathan Frazer
15:24
3
16.07.2024
NXT
The Rascalz (Trey Miguel, Wes Lee & Zachary Wentz) defeat Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey & Wolfgang)
Professional wrestling is constantly evolving, with new stars emerging to capture the hearts of fans worldwide. As promotions like WWE and AEW continue to scout talent, the independent wrestling scene remains a goldmine of future icons. Here are some of the top pro wrestling prospects to watch in 2025, poised to make significant impacts in the industry.
The Rising Stars of Tag Team Wrestling
ABC (Chris Bey & Ace Austin)
Although not technically ‘prospects’ at this point, Chris Bey and Ace Austin have been standout performers in TNA Wrestling’s X-Division and Tag Team ranks for some time now.
As members of Bullet Club, their synergy as the tag team ABC has made waves, and they are prime candidates for AEW or WWE in 2025.
Violence Is Forever (Dominic Garrini & Kevin Ku)
Dominic Garrini and Kevin Ku bring an intense chemistry to the ring and are known for their stellar performances across GCW and DPW. The duo’s in-ring skill and charisma make them a hot prospect for larger promotions.
Singles Competitors Ready to Shine
Delmi Exo
A trailblazer in women’s wrestling, Delmi Exo has captured titles across MLW, SHIMMER, and wXw. Her technical skills and consistent growth have positioned her as a top-tier competitor in 2025, making her a strong candidate for larger promotions to boost their women’s divisions.
Calvin Tankman
Often compared to legends like Bam Bam Bigelow, Calvin Tankman’s mix of agility and raw power has solidified him as a standout in DEADLOCK Pro-Wrestling and Black Label Pro. His ability to create memorable matches makes him a potential future champion in any promotion.
Michael Oku
The British sensation Michael Oku gained international recognition after a 47-minute match against Will Ospreay. Known for his technical prowess and storytelling ability, Oku is a strong contender for AEW or WWE, especially as these promotions look to expand their global reach.
High-Flyers and Innovators to Watch
Starboy Charlie
Barely in his 20s, Starboy Charlie is a young talent with a unique persona. His work in Game Changer Wrestling and West Coast Pro Wrestling showcases a mix of charisma and in-ring creativity, making him a perfect fit for WWE’s developmental programs or AEW’s dynamic roster.
Myron Reed
A three-time MLW World Middleweight Champion, Myron Reed’s high-flying style draws comparisons to NXT’s Wes Lee. Reed’s spectacular matches across GCW and other promotions highlight his ability to captivate audiences.
Heavy Hitters with a Bright Future
Jake Something
With a blend of power and agility reminiscent of Mike Awesome, Jake Something has dominated the independent scene. His work in TNA and DPW showcases his ability to be both a powerhouse and a versatile performer, making him an asset for major promotions.
Hyan
Hyan, a standout in ROW and New Texas Pro Wrestling, blends Lucha Libre influences with European and Japanese styles. Having already competed in Pro Wrestling NOAH and TNA, she’s poised for a breakout year in 2025.
The December 30 episode of WWE Raw will be a landmark event, marking the show’s final broadcast on the USA Network before its historic move to Netflix on January 6, 2025
WWE Raw Preview: December 30, 2024
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Semifinals: Dakota Kai faces Zoey Stark, and IYO SKY squares off against Lyra Valkyria.
Damian Priest & The War Raiders taking on The Judgment Day
Chad Gable vs. Otis in a battle of Alpha Academy alumni.
Pete Dunne vs. R-Truth
CM Punk and Seth Rollins will both be on hand ahead of their clash on the WWE Raw Netflix Debut.
As WWE bids farewell to its long-standing home, the episode promises action-packed matches and key developments that will set the tone for the new year.
The Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament reaches its semifinals, with Dakota Kai battling Zoey Stark and IYO SKY facing Lyra Valkyria. (Updated brackets)
Tensions between CM Punk and Seth Rollins are expected to escalate as both are confirmed to appear, fueling speculation about their brewing rivalry.
Other matches include Chad Gable versus Otis in a clash of Alpha Academy alumni, Pete Dunne against R-Truth in a battle of styles, and Damian Priest teaming with The War Raiders to face The Judgment Day in a hard-hitting encounter.
This final Raw on USA Network promises to be a memorable send-off as WWE begins its new chapter on Netflix.
Former WWE superstar Mustafa Ali, who has been actively competing on the independent wrestling circuit since his release in September 2023, remains optimistic about a potential return to WWE. During an interview with Insight host Chris Van Vliet, Ali shared insights into his journey post-WWE and the evolving dynamics of the wrestling industry.
Ali, a former X-Division Champion during his tenure with TNA Wrestling, is also preparing to launch a wrestling school in Chicago next month. He sees WWE’s upcoming transition to Netflix as a potential game-changer, offering new opportunities and flexibility for performers.
“There’s multiple paths. Their move to Netflix is very interesting… it opens up possibilities. I don’t know how much the show is going to change, but it might affect the dynamic, ratings, and what they’re open to.”
Reflecting on his time with WWE and working independently since his release, Ali believes he knows what it would take in order for him to have a more successful run than he did last time.
“Business is so good for them, and I do think there’s a pathway back. Even my release was handled respectfully, with a lot of kind messages exchanged. Ultimately, it’s about building something profitable and aligning with their needs. Wrestling is all about the right place and right time,” he explained.
While Ali is focused on carving his own path, his openness to a WWE return and his forward-thinking perspective highlight his understanding of the wrestling industry’s evolving landscape.
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is set to close out 2024 with its highly anticipated pay-per-view event, Worlds End. Taking place on December 28, 2024, at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida, this event promises to deliver some top tier matches and unforgettable moments for wrestling fans worldwide.
For viewers in the United States, AEW Worlds End 2024 will kick off at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) and 5:00 PM Pacific Time (PT). Fans in the Central Time Zone can tune in at 7:00 PM CT, while those in the Mountain Time Zone can catch the action at 6:00 PM MT.
Australia Start Time
Australian fans will need to set their alarms for an early morning viewing on December 29, 2024. The event will begin at 12:00 PM AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) for viewers in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra. Brisbane residents can tune in at 11:00 AM AEST, while those in Adelaide can watch at 11:30 AM ACDT. Perth viewers will have the earliest start at 9:00 AM AWST.
Europe Start Time
European wrestling fans will be in for a late-night treat. In the United Kingdom, AEW Worlds End 2024 will start at 1:00 AM GMT on Sunday, December 29. Fans in Central European countries such as France, Germany, and Spain can catch the action at 2:00 AM CET on December 29.
Other Regions
For fans in other parts of the world, here are the start times:
Japan: 10:00 AM JST on December 29
India: 6:30 AM IST on December 29
What to Expect
AEW Worlds End 2024 promises an action-packed card, featuring several title matches and the final of the AEW Continental Classic tournament. Highlights include a Tijuana Street Fight for the AEW Women’s World Championship between Mariah May and Thunder Rosa, and an AEW World Championship 4-Way Match featuring Orange Cassidy, “Hangman” Adam Page, and Jay White.
As AEW’s final pay-per-view of 2024, Worlds End is set to deliver an unforgettable night of professional wrestling action. Fans around the globe can look forward to witnessing the culmination of storylines and the potential crowning of new champions as AEW closes out another exciting year in style.
Ric Flair believes Charlotte Flair should break his 16 world championship record.
With 14 world title wins in her career, The Queen is tied with Randy Orton for the second most world title wins, behind only her father and John Cena. With the Cenation Leader announcing his retirement from in-ring competition for 2025, Ric believes it should be Charlotte who breaks his record.
The 2-time WWE Hall of Famer gave his opinion on the matter during a recent appearance on Busted Open. He mentioned that John Cena has transitioned to Hollywood and he is not interested in the accolade:
“It’s time. John Cena doesn’t want to break the record, he doesn’t given a shit about that. John is in a different world now. Wrestling will always be his passion, but he doesn’t care about beating (the record).”
Per the wrestling veteran, Charlotte breaking his record will be the biggest thing in the business because she’s the best women’s wrestler alive:
“I still think the biggest thing in the business, when it happens, it’ll be a real game changer, just like she is in real life, is her breaking the title record or even tying it. I believe it’s in the cards. I can look at the show and watch. It’s a woman’s world now and she’s the best women’s wrestler alive.”
Ric Flair also talked about Charlotte’s injury that has kept her out of action for over a year and claimed that her return match will be the highest-rated women’s match in a long time. You can check out the latest update on the female star’s return here.
Former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon is once again seeking to compel arbitration in the case filed against him by Janel Grant. In a December 23, filing submitted by his attorney, Jessica T. Rosenburg, McMahon formally requested arbitration, citing the Federal Arbitration Act.
The filing states:
“Defendant Vincent K. McMahon, by and through his undersigned attorneys, respectfully moves this Court for an order compelling arbitration of this matter pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. §§ 3, 4, for the reasons set forth more fully in the accompanying memorandum of law and Declaration of Vincent K. McMahon. Defendant McMahon further moves the Court for such other and further relief as the Court may deem just and proper.”
McMahon’s motion was supported by a memorandum of law that emphasizes the terms of a January 2022 agreement between McMahon and Grant, which required any disputes to be resolved through arbitration. The documents allege that McMahon and Grant were engaged in a consensual relationship for three years and that McMahon agreed to pay Grant $3 million to ensure confidentiality. According to McMahon, Grant violated the agreement by filing a public lawsuit, leading him to pay only $1 million of the promised amount.
WWE, represented by Daniel J. Toal, filed a similar motion the same day. WWE’s filing also requested that the court schedule oral arguments on the matter, in addition to any other relief deemed appropriate.
McMahon maintains that the agreement remains enforceable and insists that an arbitrator should resolve the dispute. As of now, Grant’s legal team has not filed a response.
