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Jeff Jarrett Questions Company’s Business Direction Under Carlos Silva

Michael Reichlin
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Jeff Jarrett Questions Company’s Business Direction Under Carlos Silva

TNA Wrestling co-founder Jeff Jarrett has publicly questioned the company’s current business strategy, admitting he doesn’t understand the promotion’s direction under President Carlos Silva.

Speaking on his “My World With Jeff Jarrett” podcast, the company founder expressed uncertainty about TNA’s business model and goals, despite the promotion experiencing its most successful period in over a decade.

“I don’t, to this day, know what is the business model,” Jarrett stated. “Like, what is the plan? And partnerships are great, whether it’s AEW or WWE or NOAH or whoever they partner on with. I’m trying to figure out what is your goal here with all these partnerships? But more importantly, what’s your goal here, like, what’s your direction? Where are you headed?”

Jarrett specifically criticized Silva’s recent comments about pursuing a $10 million annual media rights deal, calling the figure “way, way, way low.” Silva has been actively shopping TNA’s media rights, hoping to secure a deal that would allow the company to broadcast live 52 weeks per year starting in January 2026.

The criticism comes during TNA’s strongest period since the early 2010s. The company completed a record-breaking 2024 with multiple sold-out shows, including Slammiversary 2024 which set attendance records as the highest-attended TNA event in over a decade.

TNA’s success has been largely attributed to its multi-year partnership with WWE, announced in January 2025, which has generated over 205 million impressions worth $5.3 million in earned media value.

TNA Slammiversary 2025 Preview and How to Watch

Michael Reichlin
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TNA Slammiversary 2025 Preview and How to Watch

TNA Wrestling presents its marquee summer event, Slammiversary 2025, tonight from the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York. This marks the 21st event under the Slammiversary chronology and celebrates TNA’s 23rd anniversary. The event is being hyped as potentially having the largest U.S. crowd in company history and has been described by TNA President Carlos Silva as “TNA’s greatest achievement”.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Venue: UBS Arena, Long Island, NY
Pre-show: Countdown to Slammiversary at 7:00 PM ET

How to Watch

TNA Slammiversary 2025 can be viewed through multiple platforms:

  • TNA+ (TNA’s official streaming app) – requires annual subscription plan
  • TrillerTV (formerly FITE.tv)
  • Traditional cable and satellite pay-per-view providers
  • Free pre-show available on TNA’s YouTube channel starting at 7:00 PM ET

Main Card

Championship Matches

TNA World Championship – Triple Threat Match

  • Trick Williams (c) vs. Joe Hendry vs. Mike Santana

This historic match features NXT’s Trick Williams defending the TNA World Championship he won at NXT Battleground, marking the first time a WWE-contracted wrestler has held a TNA championship. Williams has been calling the company “TrickNA” while making limited appearances, setting up this homecoming opportunity for both Hendry and New York native Santana.

TNA X-Division Championship

  • Moose (c) vs. Leon Slater

Slater earned this opportunity by pinning Moose in an eight-man tag team match at Against All Odds.

TNA World Tag Team Championship – 4-Way Ladder Match

  • The Nemeths (c) vs. The Hardys vs. The Rascalz vs. Fir$t Cla$$

Title vs. Title Match

  • Masha Slamovich (TNA Knockouts Champion) vs. Jacy Jayne (NXT Women’s Champion)

This winner-take-all match represents a historic collision between TNA and NXT championships.

Featured Matches

  • Tessa Blanchard vs. Indi Hartwell
  • Mustafa Ali vs. Cedric Alexander
  • Darkstate (Cutler James, Dion Lennox, Osiris Griffin, and Saquon Shugars) vs. The System & Matt Cardona (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers, JDC, and Matt Cardona)

Special Appearances

AJ Styles will make his return to TNA Wrestling at the event, marking a significant homecoming for the TNA legend.

Pre-Show Matches

TNA Knockouts World Tag Team Championship

  • The Elegance Brand (c) vs. The IInspiration

Six-Man Tag Team Match

  • Steve Maclin, Jake Something & Mance Warner vs. Real1, Zilla Fatu & Josh Bishop

Adam Pearce Trolls Fans With Fake WWE Release Announcement

Thomas Lowson
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Adam Pearce Trolls Fans With Fake WWE Release Announcement

WWE releases can often come out of nowhere, and Adam Pearce recently had some fun online by suggesting he had been cut from the promotion. The RAW General Manager posted a video on his Instagram that began with a somber and serious tone. Speaking as if he were about to share deeply personal news, Pearce teased that his WWE tenure was over.

“Um, Happy Sunday everybody. Um, not exactly sure how to start this. Got some unfortunate news this morning… on a Sunday.

“Um, but I am grateful that I have been afforded the opportunity to release this information before it is disseminated publicly. Um, all of us realize that at some point the journey comes to an end. And I guess, bottom line is…“

Just as the video reached its emotional climax, the audio abruptly switched to Rick Astley’s classic hit “Never Gonna Give You Up,” revealing that the whole thing was a rickroll.

Instead of Pearce being let go, the veteran will continue to serve as Raw General Manager, delivering high-quality matches each and every week. While WWE may still release some names before the year is over, it appears Adam Pearce is safe for now.

Ex-Champion Debuts New Gimmick At WWE NXT Live Event

Thomas Lowson
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Ex-Champion Debuts New Gimmick At WWE NXT Live Event

Gimmick changes are nothing new in wrestling and are often tested at a live event before they are taken to TV. In WWE NXT, Ridge Holland made a name for himself as both a face and a heel, and it appears he’s had another change in attitude.

At the July 19 WWE NXT live event in Tampa, Florida, Holland arrived with a new moniker as ‘The Steam Pig.’ Holland arrived on the scene with updated ring gear, a custom logo, and a headband, marking a significant turn from his previous character.

New look or not, Holland got the win over Tate Wilder during the fourth match of the night. This marked a successful return to the ring for the former NXT Tag Team Champion, who hasn’t wrestled on TV since May of this year.

Whether this new character sticks for Holland, time will tell. Whatever comes, the ‘Steam Pig’ steam-rolled his way to a win in Tampa.

Ridge Holland Addresses Fan Demands for WWE to Fire Him Over Big E Injury

CM Punk Thinks WWE Star Is “The Future Of The Business”

Andrew Ravens
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CM Punk Thinks WWE Star Is “The Future Of The Business”

As he prepares for his World Heavyweight Championship match at SummerSlam, CM Punk has opened up about his current run in WWE. In a new interview, Punk said that at this stage of his career, every opportunity he gets is “extra credit” and a “dream come true.”

Speaking with ComicBook Nation, Punk reflected on his veteran status and his appreciation for his current position in the company. He noted that working with the top talent in WWE has been a rejuvenating experience.

“Listen, everything I’m doing on screen, on television, wrestling-wise now, it’s like extra credit. It’s a dream come true,” Punk said. “I feel like I don’t know when the roller coaster ride ends for me. I want to squeeze as much out of it as I can. Being able to work with the top talkers, wrestlers, and minds in the industry has just rejuvenated me as a whole.”

Punk singled out his upcoming SummerSlam opponent, GUNTHER, as being at the top of the list of people he wants to work with. He also named Bron Breakker, Chad Gable, and Damian Priest as other talents he has his eye on.

“Just getting able to lace up my boots and lock up with Gunther at this stage in my career is more important to me than anything,” he stated. “Gunther’s at the top of the list of people that I look at as not only the present, they’re definitely the future of the business.”

Punk earned his championship opportunity by winning a number one contender’s gauntlet match on the July 14th episode of Monday Night Raw. His match against GUNTHER for the World Heavyweight Championship is one of the marquee bouts scheduled for the two-night SummerSlam premium live event, which takes place on August 2nd and 3rd at MetLife Stadium.

Bryan Danielson Reveals He’s Training To Be A Volunteer Firefighter

Andrew Ravens
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Bryan Danielson Reveals He’s Training To Be A Volunteer Firefighter

AEW star Bryan Danielson has not wrestled a match since October 2024, and he recently revealed what he has been focusing on during his time away from the ring. At a recent stage show, Danielson shared that he is currently in training to become a volunteer firefighter in his community.

Speaking at a Starrcast stage show, Danielson explained his motivation for the new endeavor, stating that he wants to help combat forest fires in his area and find a new way to be of service.

“So one of the things in our area that needs help is the forest fires, and so, one of my things to provide service to my community is training to be a volunteer firefighter,” Danielson said. “I’m looking at how I can be of service to my community and where I can feel like I’m really doing something with my life that’s productive and has meaning, you know?”

“The American Dragon” has not competed in an official match since the WrestleDream pay-per-view last October. He has stated that he is currently focused on his family, though he has made some non-televised appearances for AEW and ROH during his time off.

While Danielson’s focus has been on his family and community, he made a surprise, non-wrestling appearance at the AEW All In: Texas pay-per-view on July 12. During the chaotic main event, a masked Danielson appeared, coming to the aid of “Hangman” Adam Page and attacking members of the Death Riders faction. The appearance has led to speculation among fans about whether he is planning a more permanent return to the ring.

Randy Orton To Break Long-Standing Record At WWE SummerSlam

Thomas Lowson
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0
Randy Orton To Break Long-Standing Record At WWE SummerSlam

Randy Orton will compete at WWE SummerSlam, and win, lose, or draw, the Legend Killer will walk away from the show as the holder of a new record. At the August PLE, Orton will team with Jelly Roll to face Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul.

By competing, Orton will have wrestled in 17 matches at SummerSlam, a new record for WWE. Currently, Orton shares the record number of 16 with The Undertaker, though that will change soon enough.

Orton’s has several noteworthy SummerSlam moments since his debut at the event inside the Elimination Chamber in 2003. The following year, Orton would win his first of several World Championships at the Biggest Party of the Summer. 2013 saw Orton cash in Money in the Bank on Daniel Bryan and 2016 saw the Viper left in a bloodied heap after being busted open by Brock Lesnar.

WWE SummerSlam 2025 will take place as a two-night event on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Cardi B will serve as the host of the show.

https://www-sescoops-com.webpkgcache.com/doc/-/s/www.sescoops.com/news/wwe/cody-rhodes-john-cena-summerslam-street-fight

Rhea Ripley Hesitant On WWE Unreal: Don’t Show Everything

Thomas Lowson
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0
Rhea Ripley Hesitant On WWE Unreal: Don’t Show Everything

Rhea Ripley isn’t completely sold on WWE’s new behind-the-scenes reality show, Unreal, making her the latest in a long line of people. Speaking on the Progressive podcast, Ripley was asked for her take on WWE’s upcoming show detailing the behind-the-scenes creative process.

“WWE, they’re always trying new things and bits and pieces to make it different and make it grow. And this is just one of the next steps.”

While Ripley knows better to fight the evolution of WWE, she’s not the biggest fan of WWE Unreal. Her concern is too much will be show, and revealed the strange process of being followed backstage.

“Do I think that everything should be shown? No… It was really strange while having the camera crew around.”

At the same time, she acknowledged the reality of modern wrestling culture. With social media and frequent fan encounters, kayfabe isn’t what it once was—and fans already know that the secret is out.

“They see us together at airports. They see us together if we go out. So they know that behind the scenes we do talk to each other, we do hang out, we are a family.”

CM Punk is another name uneasy with WWE Unreal, though neither he nor Ripley can stop the show dropping on Netflix on July 29. For Rhea Ripley, she is cautiously open to the concept—though draws the line at how much should be shown.

Chelsea Green Spills Details on Upcoming Netflix’s WWE Unreal

CM Punk: WWE Unreal Goes Against Everything I Was Taught

Thomas Lowson
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0
CM Punk: WWE Unreal Goes Against Everything I Was Taught

WWE Unreal promises to provide a never-before-seen look at the creative process behind the wrestling juggernaut, though the show’s concept has divided fans. While speaking on the Progressive podcast, CM Punk talked about why he feels uncomfortable with the new show.

“It’s that my entire existence in my profession, professional wrestling, you’re taught and you’re brought up—and if you’re old school—you protect the business. It’s always been that way.”

Punk believes that WWE Unreal is “exposing the business,” and while he knows that fans know of wrestling’s scripted nature, he feels the new show goes too far. For CM Punk, WWE Unreal is crossing a line he was taught never to cross.

“It’s just really strange for me, at least, because I’ve always been taught you protect the business. You don’t let the insiders in on all the inside information. It just—it goes against everything I think that was instilled in me when I first started.”

Punk’s opposition did not stop WWE from using him in WWE Unreal and the Best in the World is featured in the trailer. Punk made it clear that filming for Unreal was far from pleasant.

“We watched the trailer right before we came in here, and I immediately—I could feel my face. I’m bright red. I’m sweating. And I’m just like, ‘Oh, geez. Oh boy. Okay. All right. Here it comes.’ I was never sure when they were filming.”

WWE Unreal is set to premiere on July 29. While it promises an unprecedented glimpse into the backstage world of wrestling, CM Punk remains clearly skeptical of the format.

The Rock’s Involvement In “WWE: Unreal” Revealed

Damian Priest and Lola Vice Fuel Dating Rumors at Bad Bunny Concert

Thomas Lowson
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0
Damian Priest and Lola Vice Fuel Dating Rumors at Bad Bunny Concert

Damian Priest and Lola Vice just added serious fuel to the dating rumors after being spotted attending a Bad Bunny concert. On July 19, the pair were sighted at the concert, reportedly to celebrate her 27th birthday in style. Bad Bunny himself introduced them before the show, making their appearance very public.

This appearance comes just days after Priest was asked directly about Vice during an interview on Good Morning New York. When questioned about their recent outing at a Yankees game, he dodged the topic with a smirk.

“Oh, well, I don’t know about all that. No comment, no comment.”

Rumors first sprouted when the pair attended a baseball game together, with fans speculating if this was more than just a platonic hangout of WWE colleagues. While Priest won’t confirm or deny the claims of a relationship, the signs are becoming harder to ignore.

Now, following their joint appearance at a high-profile concert—complete with a public acknowledgment from one of the biggest artists in the world—it seems the rumored relationship might be less private than they’re letting on.

At 42, Damian Priest Proves Age Is Just a Number in WWE

I’m Done! Roman Reigns Denies 6th Child Rumors

Thomas Lowson
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0
I’m Done! Roman Reigns Denies 6th Child Rumors

Roman Reigns may be the Tribal Chief of his family, but the OTC hasn’t welcomed a new child into the world. Recently, it was reported that Reigns and his wife had welcomed another child. In a backstage video, Reigns made clear that his days of becoming a new father are over.

“They’re trying to say I was trying to catch up to Jacob [Fatu]? Five and done. I’ve done my job. I procreate. No more. Damn kids.”

Fatu has seven children, a number Reigns has no plans on meeting and certainly doesn’t plan on surpassing. During the video, Reigns also offered a glimpse into the chaos he’s juggling at home, quipping that his time away from WWE is rarely peaceful.

“They ask me, ‘How’s vacation?’ I say, ‘There’s no vacation. There was school till June and then tutoring.’”

Reigns made it clear though that he’s not unsatisfied despite being busy, telling fans “Don’t feel bad for me. Don’t ever feel bad for me.” For Reigns, having his five children is a joy and a privilege, though he has no plans to add any more names to the Bloodline.

Roman Reigns Vows Payback After WWE Raw Return

Ex-WWE/TNA Exec Joins Hulk Hogan’s RAF Wrestling

Thomas Lowson
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Ex-WWE/TNA Exec Joins Hulk Hogan’s RAF Wrestling

David Sahadi, renowned for his groundbreaking production work with WWE and TNA Wrestling, is officially joining the creative team behind Real American Freestyle Wrestling. Sahadi confirmed the news on his live podcast Behind The Lens, revealing that he had been talking with Eric Bischoff since May 2025.

“When Eric first called and described his vision for how he wanted to present freestyle wrestling to a bigger audience, I was enthralled. I truly believe Eric’s vision will appeal to not only the purist of freestyle fans, but a mainstream audience as well.”

Sahadi’s move from WWE and TNA to RAF Wrestling marks a serious change in terms of size. Nevertheless, he feels that what RAF may lack in size, it makes up for in quality.

“We have assembled the greatest production team in combat fights to present civilization’s oldest sport in a unique, modern and creative way.”

Sahadi was with WWE for decades, and was one of many soldiers backstage during the Monday Night Wars. Sahadi admits it is ironic to now be working with the man who tried to put him out of a job.

“Eric Bischoff was breaking new ground with WCW Nitro and kicking our asses in the ratings, he was perceived as ‘the evil one,’ the enemy. Now I have the privilege of working with Eric.”

Sahadi’s involvement comes after it was confirmed that Kurt Angle will be joining RAF. Time will tell if the new promotion, run by Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan, succeeds in its aim to redefine freestyle wrestling for a broader audience.

Hogan and Bischoff Share Vision for Real American Freestyle Wrestling: ‘This Is Pro-Pro Wrestling’

Adam Sandler Praises Fake Son MJF Ahead Of Happy Gilmore 2

Thomas Lowson
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Adam Sandler Praises Fake Son MJF Ahead Of Happy Gilmore 2

Adam Sandler has opened up about what it was like working with MJF on Happy Gilmore 2, and the AEW star left a lasting impression. In a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, Sandler spoke highly of MJF, who plays one of Gilmore’s children in the new film.

“Funny as hell. What a great kid. Love him. Family member. I was a little concerned when halfway through he was going to fight.”

Sandler didn’t name what match of MJF’s interrupted his filming schedule, but the AEW star returned bruised. While some of the marks were easy to cover, others weren’t so easy to hide.

“There were some bruises you can cover, and then there were some extra bruises. That kid is jacked and he’s a stud. ’m happy to say he’s my fake son forever. I’m proud of my fake son. I love my fake son.”

MJF’s role has become one of the most talked-about aspects of the film ahead of its July 25, 2025 release. With his natural charisma and acting chops, fans are eager to see how the AEW star shines on the big screen.

Whether it’s in the ring or on camera, MJF continues to prove he’s a force to be reckoned with—both as a performer and, now, as Adam Sandler’s “fake son.”

Nikki Bella Says Happy Gilmore 2 Will Surpass Original, Teases Twist



Upper Deck to Immortalize Adam Page’s Fork Attack in Wrestling Trading Card

Michael Reichlin
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Upper Deck to Immortalize Adam Page’s Fork Attack in Wrestling Trading Card

Upper Deck Sports announced it will create a unique trading card commemorating one of professional wrestling’s most bizarre moments from AEW All In: Texas on July 12, 2025.

The card will feature an oversized, match-used relic containing an actual piece of the fork that AEW wrestler Adam “Hangman” Page used during his attack on Jon Moxley at the event. The incident, which Upper Deck described as “a moment so wild, we saved the evidence,” will be immortalized as a one-of-a-kind collectible.

The fork relic card will be available for redemption in Upper Deck’s upcoming AEW SP Game Used trading card release. SP Game Used is Upper Deck’s premium line known for incorporating authentic pieces of equipment and memorabilia from sporting events.

This marks an unusual entry into Upper Deck’s catalog of sports memorabilia, as the company typically features equipment like jerseys, bats, and game balls rather than unconventional items like dining utensils used in wrestling storylines.

The announcement has generated significant buzz among wrestling fans and trading card collectors, highlighting the crossover appeal between professional wrestling entertainment and sports memorabilia collecting.

Daniel Cormier Claims Brock Lesnar Is On WWE’s “Banned List”

Michael Reichlin
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Daniel Cormier Claims Brock Lesnar Is On WWE’s “Banned List”

Former UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier has made explosive claims about Brock Lesnar’s current status with WWE, revealing that “The Beast Incarnate” is allegedly on a “banned list” that prevents him from returning to professional wrestling.

Speaking on Demetrious Johnson’s “Mightycast” show, Cormier was asked about the possibility of facing Lesnar in a WWE ring when he delivered the bombshell revelation:

“I mean, Brock is on the banned list right now. Brock got into so much trouble. I ain’t telling you on air what Brock did. Brock is in so much trouble.”

While Cormier didn’t specify what organization maintains this alleged “banned list,” Lesnar’s absence from WWE programming since SummerSlam 2023 coincides with his involvement in the federal lawsuit filed by former WWE employee Janel Grant against Vince McMahon. The amended complaint, filed in February 2025, officially names Lesnar and alleges that McMahon attempted to traffic Grant to Lesnar as part of contract negotiations in 2021.

“Brock is on the banned list right now. Brock got into so much trouble…I ain’t telling you on air what Brock did. Brock is in so much trouble.” – Daniel Cormier

Cormier also shed light on why their highly anticipated UFC bout never materialized after their dramatic confrontation at UFC 226 in 2018.

“Brock played us,” Cormier explained. “WWE paid him more to stay. We danced the dance for a while…they paid him so much to stay. He was such a big star there that he could make money to go do that and do nothing but suplex, or fight me in an Octagon and I’m going to try and kill him.”

Following the January 2024 filing of Grant’s lawsuit, WWE immediately pulled Lesnar from his scheduled Royal Rumble return and scrapped planned appearances at WrestleMania 40. Recent speculation from wrestling insiders suggests WWE may be waiting for the legal situation to “blow over” before considering Lesnar’s return.

The full interview with Daniel Cormier and Demetrious Johnson is available on the Mightycast podcast.

Bryan Danielson Reveals WWE Legal Pressure Over ‘Yes’ Chant Usage in AEW

Michael Reichlin
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Bryan Danielson Reveals WWE Legal Pressure Over ‘Yes’ Chant Usage in AEW

Former WWE champion Bryan Danielson revealed that WWE recently contacted him with what he described as veiled legal threats over his use of the iconic “Yes” chant gesture during his AEW appearances, highlighting the ongoing intellectual property battles between wrestling’s biggest promotions.

During a Starrcast panel before AEW All In Texas, Danielson disclosed receiving a message from WWE regarding his continued use of the arm-raising gesture that became synonymous with his character during his 12-year WWE tenure.

“I just got a text message yesterday. I wouldn’t say threatening legal action, but like hey, you know,” Danielson said, trailing off as the implications became clear to the audience.

The wrestling legend appeared frustrated by the situation, questioning the fundamental nature of the claim.

“Am I not allowed to raise my fingers in the air? Right. And you know, and I when I do it, nobody notices. But I never say yes when I do it. I always just do this and the people. So am I not allowed? Am I not allowed to do that?” he asked, demonstrating the gesture that has become second nature to wrestling fans worldwide.

Despite the apparent legal pressure, Danielson maintained his characteristic diplomatic approach when discussing WWE.

“You know, like you hate like I’m not somebody who tends to criticize people, right? Like everybody has their different values. And they are they have their own values. They’re just different from mine and that’s fine,” he explained, though his tone suggested underlying frustration with the corporate approach to fan-created content.

The revelation exposes the complex legal landscape wrestlers face when moving between promotions, particularly regarding fan-created movements that became corporate assets.

The “Yes” chant originated organically from fan reactions to Danielson’s work but evolved into one of WWE’s most recognizable audience participation moments during his championship runs.

While Danielson noted that he’s “kind of at a point where I don’t think you know maybe I don’t care about” the legal implications, the incident reveals ongoing tension between WWE and AEW over talent and associated intellectual property, potentially setting precedent for future wrestler mobility between major promotions.

Kevin Owens Undergoes Successful Neck Surgery

Michael Reichlin
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Kevin Owens Undergoes Successful Neck Surgery

WWE superstar Kevin Owens underwent successful neck surgery on July 18, according to Fightful Select. The procedure marks a significant step in the former Universal Champion’s recovery from a spinal cord injury that has kept him sidelined since March.

Owens had been targeting mid-July for the surgery after months of allowing his spinal cord to heal naturally before the procedure. The 41-year-old wrestler revealed in recent interviews that the extent of the surgery would depend on the condition of his spinal cord at the time of the operation. The successful completion of the procedure provides clarity for both Owens and WWE as they plan for his eventual return to the ring.

The injury forced Owens to withdraw from his highly anticipated WrestleMania 41 match against Randy Orton and has kept him off WWE programming for several months. Medical experts and wrestling observers expect a recovery timeline of nine months to over a year, meaning Owens likely will not return to active competition until 2026.

Kevin Owens Shares Health Update, Reflects on 10-Year WWE Anniversary

WWE Raw Preview: July 21, 2025

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Raw Preview: July 21, 2025

WWE Raw this Monday is set for an action-packed night in Houston, TX, as the road to SummerSlam continues to heat up.

Here’s a detailed rundown of the officially announced segments and matches:

  • Roman Reigns Returns: And all eyes are on the Tribal Chief’s next move as rivalries heat up heading into SummerSlam.
  • CM Punk Appears: Fresh off securing a World Heavyweight Title match at SummerSlam, CM Punk is set to address his next steps and his rival Gunther.
  • Becky Lynch Has a Proposal for Lyra Valkyria: The Women’s Intercontinental Champion has an important proposal for top contender Lyra Valkyria.
  • Sheamus vs. Rusev: These hard-hitting powerhouses clash once again as Sheamus looks for payback against the Bulgarian Brute, Rusev.
  • Sami Zayn vs. Karrion Kross: With tensions at a boiling point, Sami Zayn goes one-on-one with the dangerous Karrion Kross in what could be a show-stealer.
  • The New Day vs. LWO vs. The Creed Brothers: Three elite teams collide in a Triple Threat Match, with the winners earning a shot at the World Tag Team Championships.

Catch the next WWE Raw live on Netflix this Monday.

Kiana James Returns to WWE Action After 15-Month Injury Layoff

Michael Reichlin
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Kiana James Returns to WWE Action After 15-Month Injury Layoff

Kiana James made her long-awaited return to in-ring competition on Friday, July 18, 2025, during the Main Event tapings that took place before SmackDown in San Antonio, Texas. This marked her first match in over a year, ending a 398-day absence from WWE TV.

James faced Michin in her comeback bout during the Main Event tapings at the Frost Bank Center. The match was taped ahead of the SmackDown broadcast and will air on WWE Main Event, which streams every Thursday on Hulu.

Following her Main Event return, James made a subtle on-screen appearance during Friday’s SmackDown broadcast. She was spotted in the background of a backstage segment featuring Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, where she appeared to be in conversation with Women’s United States Champion Giulia. This brief cameo got fans on social media speculating about a potential new alliance between the two.

Injury and Recovery Timeline

James had been sidelined since June 17, 2024, when she last competed in a Money in the Bank qualifying triple threat match on WWE Raw against IYO SKY and Zelina Vega. She suffered a serious leg injury just weeks after being drafted to the Raw brand in April 2024.

The timing of her injury was particularly unfortunate, as James had only recently been called up from NXT to the main roster during the 2024 WWE Draft. She managed to secure just one victory on Raw – defeating Natalya in early June – before the injury occurred.

In April 2025, James confirmed she had been dealing with a knee injury and was in the middle of rehabilitation. Recent reports indicated she had been cleared or was nearing clearance over a month ago, with sightings backstage at WWE shows including Evolution and a previous SmackDown event in Lexington, Kentucky.

Before her injury, James had established herself as a promising talent in NXT, where she held the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside Fallon Henley. During her time in developmental, she feuded with top stars including Roxanne Perez, Tiffany Stratton, Lyra Valkyria, and even Becky Lynch.

The 28-year-old from Sioux City, Iowa, originally signed with WWE in 2022 and spent two years building her reputation in NXT before her main roster call-up.

Update On Jesse Ventura’s WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event Role

Thomas Lowson
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Update On Jesse Ventura’s WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event Role

Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura was part of the latest WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, but his role was far smaller than what fans had expected. Instead of commentating as seen in previous SNME shows, Ventura was part of an opening skit with Joe Tessitore and wasn’t used after that.

Fans should expect to see less of Ventura going forward, according to a report from Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Ventura’s commentary role at the May 2025 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event was seen as a “fiasco” and “the call was made not to let him announce.”

Ventura’s “fiasco” saw him serve on commentary in May during the steel cage match between Drew McIntyre and Damian Priest. During the match, Ventura criticized talent being able to win by leaving the cage, a long-standing rule of cage matches. Declaring on the show “what kind of BS is that?!” Ventura’s criticism of WWE’s presentation has affected his role going forward.

Whether in wrestling or politics, Ventura has never kept quiet about his views. While fans can expect ‘The Body’ on WWE shows, don’t expect him to be handed a live mic for too long.

Jesse Ventura Reflects on WWE Comeback: A Fresh Energy Backstage

Netflix Reveals WWE Viewership Numbers 

Andrew Ravens
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Netflix Reveals WWE Viewership Numbers 

Netflix has released its first biannual viewership report since its landmark partnership with WWE began on January 6, 2025. The data, which covers the period from January 1 through June 30, reveals impressive numbers for Monday Night Raw and some surprising results for the company’s premium live events in international markets.

In a surprising finding, the most-viewed single night of a WWE premium live event on Netflix internationally was not WrestleMania. The Royal Rumble in January topped all PLEs with three million international viewers. This viewership was higher than both nights of WrestleMania 41, which drew 2.4 million viewers for Saturday and 2.8 million for Sunday. In other international data, SmackDown’s viewership peaked at 1.1 million viewers, while the highest-viewed NXT PLE was New Year’s Evil with 500,000 viewers.

The debut of Monday Night Raw on the streaming platform was a huge success, achieving the highest viewership for any episode in the first half of 2025 with 6.9 million global viewers. That January 6th show featured a main event between CM Punk and Seth Rollins, as well as Roman Reigns facing Solo Sikoa in Tribal Combat. The third highest-viewed episode of Raw during the reporting period was the April 21st show, which featured major storyline developments involving John Cena, Randy Orton, and Paul Heyman’s new faction.

The strong performance in the first half of 2025 sets a high bar for WWE and Netflix. The next major premium live event that will be included in the next report is the upcoming two-night SummerSlam on August 2nd and 3rd, which will be headlined by John Cena defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes and GUNTHER defending the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk.

Rob Van Dam: Celebrities Wrestling Is Always Offensive To Me

Thomas Lowson
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Rob Van Dam: Celebrities Wrestling Is Always Offensive To Me

While the likes of Logan Paul, Bad Bunny, and Johnny Knoxville have won over fans with their skills in the ring, Rob Van Dam is no fan of celebrity matches. On an episode of his podcast, 1 of a Kind with RVD, the ECW legend made his views perfectly clear.

“For me, it’s always offensive. I take the perspective of… in order to have a celebrity take a spot on a wrestling card, everyone else has to work around them to make it look like anybody could do it.”

Van Dam said that not everybody can wrestle though acknowledged that Paul is “so good,” despite being relatively new to the business. Van Dam shared what it’d take for a celebrity wanting to wrestle to win him over.

“If I can kick him in the mouth just like I kick Bubba Dudley or anybody else in the mouth, if they’re like, ‘Ok cool man, I really enjoyed that,’ maybe they’d win me over then.”

Van Dam’s comments are somewhat ironic given that he recently teased forging a partnership with Logan Paul. Long before Paul was tearing things up in WWE, Van Dam had a taste of celebrity action in the original ECW.

“When Insane Clown Posse came to ECW, me and Sabu beat the shit out of them. We didn’t take it easy on them at all and I broke [Violent J’s] eardrum.”

At 54 years old, questions remains as to how many matches, if any, Van Dam has left. But should he wrestle again, don’t expect him to work with the likes of Bunny, Paul, or Jelly Roll in the ring.

Triple H: WWE Stars Are Excited To Work With Jelly Roll

Nikki Bella Says Happy Gilmore 2 Will Surpass Original, Teases Twist

Thomas Lowson
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Nikki Bella Says Happy Gilmore 2 Will Surpass Original, Teases Twist

Happy Gilmore 2 will land on Netflix later this month, and fans are in store for a major plot twist, according to Nikki Bella. Speaking with E! News, the WWE Hall of Famer opened up about her time on set, revealing she had a great time filming her role for the movie.

“The greatest thing ever. He [Adam Sandler] is absolutely amazing. This set was so much fun. I truly am—I mean, I’ve always believed laughter is the best medicine, but it really is.”

Happy Gilmore 2 comes 30 years after the original film which remains a highlight of comedy movies. While the sequel has a tall order to rise to the original, Nikki believes Happy Gilmore 2 won’t just be as good as the original, but surpass it.

“This is going to be even better than the first. And I’m not even saying that ’cause I’m a part of it, but we just could not stop crying, laughing on set. Adam just makes it really comfortable for everyone.”

Looking ahead to the film’s release, Nikki expressed her excitement for fans to see what’s in store, teasing a major twist that hasn’t been shown in the trailers.

“There is a massive part that people are going to be obsessed with. I think it’s so cool that they haven’t really teased it, because you’re going to watch and you’re going to go, ‘Oh, it’s going in this direction.”

In addition to Nikki Bella, Happy Gilmore 2 will also feature fellow wrestling stars MJF and Becky Lynch. With a cast full of big personalities and high expectations, fans will soon find out if the long-awaited sequel can deliver.

WWE Avoids MJF Promotion in Happy Gilmore 2 Ads (Report)

Injured Star Returns Before WWE SmackDown After A Year Out Of Action

Thomas Lowson
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Injured Star Returns Before WWE SmackDown After A Year Out Of Action

One WWE Superstar was finally able to make a return to the ring before the latest episode of SmackDown after being out with an injury for over a year. Kiana James makes her in-ring retun during the Main Event tapings where she battled Michin. Despite this being a big night for James, it was Michin who got the victory.

James wasn’t just kept to the WWE Main Event taping. On SmackDown, she was spotted by eagle-eyed fans in the background of a segment, speaking to Women’s United States Champion Giulia.

James had been out of action since June 2024, when she suffered a leg injury. Prior to the Michin match, her most recent in-ring encounter saw IYO SKY beat James and Zelina Vega on WWE Raw.

James was moved to Raw in the 2024 WWE Draft, but her injury has robbed her of the chance to develop on TV. It remains to be seen what’s next for Kiana James after this long-awaited return.

James Gunn Reveals Why Dwayne Johnson’s DC Plans Fell Apart

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James Gunn Reveals Why Dwayne Johnson’s DC Plans Fell Apart

For years, Dwayne Johnson teased his role as Black Adam, vowing that the hierarchy of the DC Comics cinematic universe was going to change. Unfortunately for WWE’s Final Boss, the film did not perform as hoped at the box office and now, DC has moved away from their previous universe plans that saw Johnson on top.

Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, DC Studios co-head James Gunn opened up about the circumstances that led to Johnson’s exit from DC. According to Gunn, by the time Dwayne Johnson was pushing for a larger creative role, DC leadership already had different plans in motion.

“There were other people [Johnson] that had a take on what they wanted to do at DC and were trying to force their way. And it just was never a part of the equation for David Zaslav, who was the head of WBD.”

This interview comes after reports that a Black Adam sequel was quietly scrapped, largely due to the film’s underwhelming box office. While the film had once been considered a launching point for Johnson’s long-term role in the DCU, its failure seemingly marked the end of his life in superhero films.

Though Black Adam didn’t perform, many are optimistic for the future of DC Comics on the big screen. 2022’s The Batman starring Robert Pattinson proved to be a smash hit with fans appreciating the darker tone and compelling performances. The new Superman reboot under Gunn’s leadership has been well-received so far, suggesting the DCU may be on more stable footing moving forward.

For Dwayne Johnson, his role as Black Adam appears to have been a one-off, despite big plans being in place for him to be a key part of the DC Universe.

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