WWE NXT Superstars will be among the special guests at this year’s Healthy Kids Day 2025 celebration at Roper YMCA in Central Florida.
Wrestling journalist and SEScoops correspondent Scott Fishman shared the news, confirming appearances by Hank Walker, Tank Ledger, Wren Sinclair, Haze Jameson, and Chris Island on Saturday, April 26.
Organized by the YMCA of Central Florida, Healthy Kids Day is a free, nationwide event aimed at encouraging healthy habits among children and families. This year’s activities run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering interactive experiences designed to promote physical activity, learning, and summer readiness.
As part of the festivities, the Roper YMCA will also host a New Worlds Reading Initiative session starting at 1:00 p.m. Families can look forward to a group reading of Skater Cielo by Rachel Katstaller, followed by an engaging activity that brings the story to life. The first 100 children will receive a free book, and the first 200 participants will be treated to a complimentary lunch.
The event will also feature prize raffles, including a chance to win SeaWorld Orlando tickets. With appearances from WWE talent, free giveaways, and enriching family activities, the day promises something for everyone.
Healthy Kids Day 2025 is part of the YMCA’s national commitment to keeping children active in spirit, mind, and body throughout the summer and beyond. The event is free and open to the public. Registration and more information are available through the YMCA of Central Florida’s event calendar.
In an unexpected display of sportsmanship, Damian Priest offered heartfelt congratulations to former Judgment Day stablemate Dominik Mysterio following Dom’s Intercontinental Championship victory at WrestleMania 41, revealing a more nuanced relationship between the former allies than fans might have expected.
Speaking to Adrian Hernandez of Unlikely immediately after his own Sin City Street Fight against Drew McIntyre, Priest didn’t hesitate when asked about Mysterio’s championship win.
“Congratulations. All the hate and all the, you know, whatever, but there was love at first, you know what I mean? That was like my little brother,” Priest remarked, his tone noticeably softening when discussing his former faction member.
Despite their tumultuous history following the Judgment Day’s implosion, Priest made it clear he’s always respected Mysterio’s abilities in the ring.
“Yes, situations happen and we went back and forth, but I’ve always thought the world of him as a performer and it was inevitable this was going to happen,” he added.
This public acknowledgment comes as something of a surprise given the bitter feud that developed between the two after their faction’s breakup. The Judgment Day, once one of WWE’s most dominant groups, fractured earlier this year with members pursuing individual success.
Mysterio’s Intercontinental Championship victory represents his first singles title in WWE, a significant milestone in his career evolution from Rey Mysterio’s son to championship-caliber performer in his own right.
While Priest’s comments don’t necessarily indicate an imminent reconciliation, they do suggest a level of respect that transcends their on-screen animosity. The acknowledgment of their “brother-like” relationship offers an intriguing glimpse into the complex dynamics between performers who once stood side by side.
For now, both superstars appear focused on their individual paths – Mysterio beginning his reign as Intercontinental Champion while Priest regroups following his WrestleMania loss.
Despite coming up short against Drew McIntyre in a brutal Sin City Street Fight at WrestleMania 41, Damian Priest showed remarkable perspective when reflecting on what the match meant to his career, calling the opportunity a “privilege” that many wrestlers can only dream about.
In an emotional post-match interview with Adrian Hernandez of Unlikely, Priest emphasized the personal significance of competing in his first true singles match on WWE’s grandest stage.
“This is my first actual full singles match at WrestleMania,” Priest explained, visibly moved despite the physical toll of the street fight.
“I’m honored to have this opportunity and this privilege that so many of us dream of this and unfortunately can’t achieve it.”
The former champion acknowledged the rarity of such opportunities in a wrestler’s career, adding, “I’m just one of the fortunate ones that got it… it’s incredible.”
While Priest had previously appeared at WrestleMania 37 in Tampa in a tag team capacity, this singles showcase represented a career milestone for the imposing superstar. The Las Vegas crowd of over 63,000 provided an electric atmosphere for the hard-hitting contest that saw both competitors push their limits.
The Sin City Street Fight lived up to its name with McIntyre ultimately prevailing, but Priest’s performance reinforced his status as one of WWE’s most physically imposing and technically sound performers.
Priest’s perspective on the match highlights the significance wrestlers place on WrestleMania moments regardless of match outcomes. For many performers, the opportunity to showcase their abilities on wrestling’s biggest night represents the culmination of years of sacrifice and dedication.
As Priest regroups from this setback, his appreciation for the moment suggests a performer with both the perspective to value these opportunities and the ambition to create more such moments in the future. With his combination of size, skill, and newly displayed vulnerability, Priest’s WrestleMania showing may ultimately prove to be another building block in his evolving WWE career.
In a candid interview on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, the Hurt Syndicate’s MVP, Bobby Lashley, and Shelton Benjamin revealed that their current AEW run represents their “last ride” together as a faction, with a specific mission that goes beyond simply collecting championship gold.
“We knew that just realistically speaking, this is the last ride. You know, this is it. We’re, you know, this is our last run and then we’re going to ride off into the sunset,” MVP explained during the interview.
“You know, we’re we’re all in our even though we’re in tremendous shape, you know, we are still in our later years. And the whole idea with what we want to do on our way out the door is make some stars.”
The veteran trio has made it clear their strategy involves building up their own credibility in AEW before transferring that value to the next generation. MVP elaborated on their approach:
“We’re talking about trying to take some of the equity that we’ve built up through the years and now reestablish that equity at AEW and then when the time is right with the right young talent, transfer that equity and make somebody.”
Shelton Benjamin noted they have “a bit more control of our destiny this time” compared to their WWE run as the Hurt Business, which “ended way prematurely.” Benjamin added:
“None of us were happy about that. And by us, I mean everyone. So, the fact that we’re able to come here and give you the product that we want to give you and this everything’s going great and like I said, I’m we’re having the time of our lives.”
This creative freedom appears critical to executing their vision for elevating younger talent in AEW. Bobby Lashley mentioned specific tag teams they’ve already enjoyed working with:
“When we first got there, we went with Private Party and they shocked us at the beginning. Like, I like those guys. I truly like those guys. I think those guys are going to be stars. But then the guns, the guns also, they’re going to be stars also.”
Lashley emphasized their approach to elevating talent:
“It’s not just about us. It’s about making some of these guys. And we don’t know who we were going to make… so far, the teams that we’ve been against, they’ve they’ve actually really impressed us.”
While the group has made it clear they will eventually pursue singles gold (with MVP stating they will hold the tag titles “until we decide as a group that okay, we’re now ready to move on to that next level”), their current focus on tag team excellence and mentorship demonstrates a rare long-term vision in professional wrestling.
For AEW’s developing roster, having established veterans intentionally focused on elevating talent could significantly impact the company’s future stars – exactly as the Hurt Syndicate has planned for their final chapter together.
Despite a career spanning over two decades, Shelton Benjamin made it clear during his appearance on Chris Van Vliet’s “Insight” that his world championship aspirations remain very much alive in AEW.
When asked if he could see himself winning a world title in AEW, Benjamin responded emphatically:
“Um, I’m going to just say yes. Um, I definitely still won a world title. If you watch my performances, I’m not performing like a guy who wants to just, you know, retire right off into the sunset. I’m still working every day to make sure that dream stays alive.”
While acknowledging he was previously a world champion in Puerto Rico’s WWC promotion, Benjamin clarified his goal is to achieve the pinnacle of success in one of wrestling’s major companies:
“Being a world champion in a prominent company is definitely on top of that list. Now, I have been world champion for Puerto Rico WWC, but uh I don’t know if we want to count that one.” After the audience insisted it does count, Benjamin added, “So, but as far as WWE, AW, the big name companies, I won a world championship and I’m working every day to make sure that dream stays alive.”
Throughout his career, Benjamin has been widely regarded as one of wrestling’s most naturally gifted athletes and in-ring performers. This reputation was reinforced during the interview when Chris Van Vliet mentioned,
“You haven’t lost a step. None of you guys have lost a step,” noting the impressive physical condition all three Hurt Syndicate members maintain despite their veteran status.
Bobby Lashley even paid his stablemate the ultimate compliment later in the interview, stating,
“Shelton Benjamin has never had a bad match,” highlighting Benjamin’s consistent in-ring excellence that has defined his career.
Benjamin’s world championship pursuit represents an increasingly common narrative in modern wrestling, where veteran performers can still achieve major career milestones later in their careers, particularly in AEW where several wrestlers in their 40s and beyond have captured championships.
Photo: Lee South for AEW
While the Hurt Syndicate’s current focus remains on their tag team championship run, MVP confirmed singles gold is in their future:
“We are going to hold these tag team titles until we’re done until we decide as a group that okay, we’re now ready to move on to that next level and then we are coming for singles tag team championship. I mean uh singles championship gold.”
For Benjamin, that opportunity to finally capture a world championship in a major promotion would serve as the crowning achievement in an already illustrious career – and based on his current performances in AEW, it’s clear he still has the skills to make that dream a reality.
In an era of sometimes hastily assembled wrestling factions, the Hurt Syndicate stands apart through an authentic connection that resonates with fans, as revealed in their recent appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet.
“This is real. And you guys feel it. And that’s why it gets over so well,” Bobby Lashley explained when asked about their reunion in AEW. The group emphasized repeatedly that their connection extends far beyond the camera, setting them apart from other wrestling stables.
“When we came together originally, it was so it was so natural. It was so it was so real,” Lashley added.
“And the crowd, you guys knew it. Like, this isn’t just a couple guys that got thrown together. And you see it all the time. You see in WWE, you see in AW, you see guys that get thrown together and you know the minute they leave the show, they all go their separate ways. That’s not how we were. Like we are really friends. We really do stuff together. We really argue. We really fight like brothers.”
This authentic brotherhood extends to their travel arrangements, with the group confirming they often travel together. As Shelton Benjamin noted, “We get it in” with the teasing and banter between venues, demonstrating their rapport continues offscreen.
The chemistry between the three veterans manifests in their in-ring dynamics as well. When asked about their tag team work, Lashley acknowledged Benjamin’s expertise: “Shelton’s brilliant in in the tag team world. So, um, I’ve had a bunch of matches, put together a bunch of matches, and I still do the same, but when it goes to tag team stuff, you have to defer to somebody that does know tag team wrestling.”
Benjamin elaborated on how they leverage each member’s strengths:
“We played to our strengths in whatever situation. Usually talking I’ll be quiet and let MVP do all the talking he wants cuz cuz in our dynamic unquestionably that’s that’s he he runs circles around us and pretty much most people in the industry. Uh wrestling wise, tech technically wise, I think I’m a more of a technician. Bobby clearly is the is the is the power and you know, he’s he’s he’s like a one-of-a-kind athlete. So, like I said, we all use our collective knowledge and put our best foot forward in whatever situation we’re presented with.”
The group’s comedic chemistry was on display throughout the interview, particularly when discussing who would win in a fight among them.
“Me,” MVP quickly claimed, leaving Lashley “speechless” before Benjamin interjected, “I’m the quiet one,” implying his dangerous nature, while MVP proudly declared himself “the loud one.”
This playful dynamic carries into their characters, with MVP noting, “MVP makes us do bad things, but we like it,” to which he clarified, “I don’t I don’t make them. I just kind of help persuade them to do what they like doing anyway.”
In professional wrestling, where chemistry can make or break a faction, the Hurt Syndicate demonstrates how authentic relationships translate to compelling television. As their AEW run continues, this genuine brotherhood provides a foundation that enhances both their in-ring performances and promo work, setting them apart from artificially constructed teams and connecting with audiences on a deeper level.
The Hardy Compound in Cameron, North Carolina, is more than just Matt Hardy’s family estate—it’s a legendary site in professional wrestling known for redefining how matches are presented.
As the central location for the “Broken Universe,” the Compound transformed wrestling storytelling through a blend of fantasy, comedy, and theatrics.
The Rise of Cinematic Wrestling
Cinematic wrestling, characterized by pre-taped, story-driven segments with high production value, gained mainstream popularity in 2016 with The Final Deletion.
Airing on Impact Wrestling, the match featured “Broken” Matt Hardy facing Jeff Hardy, also known as Brother Nero, in a bizarre battle complete with fireworks, drones, and the now-famous “Lake of Reincarnation.” The segment’s viral success laid the foundation for a new genre within wrestling.
Key Characters and Lore
Matt Hardy’s “Broken” persona emerged after a fictional transformation, claiming possession by a mystical force called ZENITH.
Jeff Hardy became Brother Nero, both a rival and ally throughout the saga. Their narratives frequently centered on the supernatural, embracing the absurd to explore identity, legacy, and rebirth.
The Lake of Reincarnation
This mystical pond, located on the property, became a storytelling device used to alter or “reincarnate” characters. Wrestlers submerged in the lake often re-emerged with new gimmicks or personas, adding layers of surrealism to each match.
Pivotal Matches and Segments
The Final Deletion (2016): The debut cinematic match, featuring wild stunts and visual effects.
Delete or Decay (2016): A dramatic defense of the Compound against the Decay faction.
Tag Team Apocalypto (2016): A chaotic, multi-team battle sprawling across the estate.
The Great War (2016): A pay-per-view clash at Bound for Glory with Decay.
Ultimate Deletion (2018): A WWE adaptation with Bray Wyatt, continuing the Compound’s legacy.
Lasting Influence on Wrestling
The creative success of the Hardy Compound segments inspired similar approaches across the industry. WWE’s Ultimate Deletion and WrestleMania 36’s Boneyard Match drew direct influence from the style. The Compound proved especially effective during the pandemic era, when traditional live events were limited.
Continued Relevance in Modern Wrestling
The Hardy Compound remains an active narrative setting, most recently featured in 2024 during a storyline involving The System faction. Its ongoing use highlights its significance as a place where reality and fiction blur, pushing the boundaries of traditional wrestling presentation.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has issued a direct response to criticism from Busted Open Radio host Dave LaGreca following his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
Johnson’s absence from WrestleMania 41 sparked widespread fan backlash, with many arguing it negatively impacted the main event featuring Cody Rhodes and John Cena. During his appearance on McAfee’s show, Johnson explained his decision to step away from the storyline, saying he wanted Cena to have his moment on the grand stage.
The comments didn’t sit well with everyone. Dave LaGreca voiced strong disapproval, joining fans in criticizing both Rock’s absence and his statements during the interview.
In response, Johnson addressed LaGreca and the Busted Open team on Instagram.
“Hi Dave, the business is a complete work. Always has been, always will be. Every aspect of it. Every match. Every interview,” Johnson wrote.
He then invited LaGreca to take part in creative discussions alongside himself, Cody Rhodes, John Cena, and Brian Gewirtz to gain deeper insight into the business.
“Until then, stop ranting, it’s not healthy my friend. Enjoy the show,” he added, ending with a playful message: “Ps, tell Bubba I have Grand Marnier and hush puppies for all of us.”
Triple H also had some pushback for fans who weren’t satisfied with the booking of WrestleMania 41:
Tonight’s episode of TNA iMPACT! is the final stop before Sunday’s TNA Rebellion pay-per-view. The show airs live from the iMPACT Zone in Orlando, Florida, at 8/7c on AXS TV in the US, Sportsnet 360 in Canada, and TNA+ worldwide
Matches and Segments
Joe Hendry & Elijah vs. Frankie Kazarian & Ethan Page (NXT)
TNA World Champion Joe Hendry teams with Elijah to face his Rebellion challengers, Frankie Kazarian and NXT’s Ethan Page. Hendry’s recent shoulder injury and the egos involved make this a volatile main event, with momentum for the title match at stake.
Moose & JDC vs. Trey Miguel & Ace Austin
X-Division Champion Moose joins forces with System enforcer JDC to take on Trey Miguel and Ace Austin. Both teams are looking to gain the upper hand as Rebellion approaches, with the challengers aiming to disrupt The System’s dominance.
Rosemary vs. Jacy Jayne (with Fallon Henley & Jazmyn Nyx)
After a mist-assisted win last week, Rosemary faces NXT’s Jacy Jayne, who will have backup at ringside from Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyx. This singles contest continues the cross-promotional rivalry between TNA and NXT’s Fatal Influence.
Tessa Blanchard in Action
Tessa Blanchard returns to the ring for a tune-up match ahead of her Knockouts World Title challenge against Masha Slamovich at Rebellion. This bout is seen as her final proving ground before the biggest Knockouts showdown of the year.
Hardy Compound Segment: Matt & Jeff Hardy Invite The Nemeth Brothers
Following weeks of taunts and a brutal assault at Sacrifice, the Nemeth brothers (Nic and Ryan) have been summoned to the legendary Hardy Compound. This segment promises to escalate the feud as the Hardys seek retribution and defend their legacy as TNA Tag Team Champions.
Mike Santana Appearance
Santana, coming off a wild brawl at Unbreakable, will address the crowd ahead of his Falls Count Anywhere match with Mustafa Ali at Rebellion. Expect heated words as their rivalry reaches a boiling point.
Bobby Lashley has revealed which WWE superstar gave him the worst bump of his career.
The Hurt Syndicate recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet. They talked about things such as potentially expanding the group, if MVP is retired from in-ring action, the possibility of their kids entering the business, and more.
When asked about the worst bumps they have ever taken, Bobby Lashley recalled a match with Big E. He explained that he got slammed into the stairs and only realized how bad it looked when he watched the replay later on:
“One time when Big E slammed me into the stairs. I don’t know what even happened. The corner of the stairs, the metal stairs, he picked me up and he slammed me on it.
And it was one of those ones where I thought when I hit it and I laid down that ground, I was like, am I good? I’m still okay. But when I watched it back, and I have it on my Instagram, it’s horrible. It looked a lot worse than it was. So thank God I was okay afterwards. I wasn’t hurt at all, but it looks nasty.”
Shelton Benjamin also answered the question, recalling an indie show in Mexico after his first run with WWE. The ring was double-stacked, and he fell down hard on the concrete when he tried to roll out of it during a spot. Per the Gold Standard, it was one of the most painful experiences of his life, and he would never wrestle in such a setting again:
“This is Mexico. They had a ring and it was like double-stacked. So it was the height of a ring on top of a ring. At some point during the match, I took a bump where I was supposed to just roll out to the floor, and I rolled, and I forgot [the height].
I came down and splat on the concrete. It was one of the most painful experiences of my life, I thought everything was broke. So I was like, I will never wrestle in one of these things again.”
Apart from this, Shelton Benjamin also talked about Max Caster saying that he was not welcomed in AEW when the Hurt Syndicate had not reformed in the company. Benjamin revealed a backstage interaction with Caster which confirmed his suspicion. You can check out his remarks on the matter here.
The Gold Standard was expected to join AEW when he was released from his WWE contract in 2023. Max Caster, however, made headlines by claiming that he didn’t want the former champion in his company. He explained that the spot should go to him or someone else who is already on the roster.
In a new interview with Chris Van Vliet, Shelton addressed Caster’s previous remarks. Benjamin, who made his AEW debut in October last year, noted that he had a chat with Max which confirmed his suspicion:
“We’ve spoken, and pretty much what I suspected was true, Max is an idiot. He was poking the bear but then the bear showed up and he decided, okay, maybe I should stop poking. So long story short, it’s my spot now.”
Shelton Benjamin also talked about the one goal he still has in wrestling, saying that he wants a world title run. While all Hurt Syndicate members have indicated multiple times that it’s the last chapter of their careers, Benjamin noted that he is still putting all his effort into his performances:
“I’m going to just say yes. I definitely still want a world title. If you watch my performances, I’m not performing like a guy who wants to just retire and ride off into the sunset.
While I definitely want to help elevate other talent, because that’s a big part of why we’re here, I still have goals. Being a World Champion in a prominent company is definitely on top of that list.”
Shelton Benjamin noted that he has held a world title in smaller promotions before but he is not sure it counts the same. Either way, he still wants a world title run in a major promotion and the 49-year-old is working every day to keep his dream alive.
It was reported earlier this week that former Dark Order member Alan Angels had become a free agent again. This came after his contract with the Anthem owned promotion expired at the start of new year.
The 27-year-old confirmed this news on X, writing an emotional statement. Angles noted that being forced to leave TNA is a big hit for him since he has been a fan of the company for many years:
The thing about wrestling is, no matter how much you love it, it doesn’t have to love you back. Wrestling doesn’t owe anyone anything. Not going to lie, this is a big hit to me. I love TNA. It was an absolute dream to wrestle there under a brand that I have watched since I was little.”
The young star confirmed that he won’t be leaving the business and instead he’ll be looking for a new start. Though he admitted that the path to success is not clear to him and he has no idea about his next destination.
Trained by AR Fox, Alan Angels made his debut in the wrestling world in 2016 and he was signed by AEW in 2020. He was recruited into the Dark Order as Number 5 after a few early losses. 5 left the group in 2021, after unsuccessfully challenging Evil Uno over the leadership of the faction.
Angles joined the TNA roster in November 2022 after his AEW release. He was part of the Violent by Design faction in the company. Alan even won an Ultimate X match to earn the right to challenge for the X Division title but failed to capture the belt.
The young wrestling veteran wrestled in one of the biggest matches of his career at WrestleMania 41. It wasn’t Dom’s first appearance at the Show of Shows, but it was the first time he was challenging for a singles title at the event.
The Judgment Day star acknowledged the importance of this in an interview with CBS Sports over the weekend. He called the opportunity ‘super validating’ after having worked hard on his character and in-ring work since his 2020 WWE debut:
“It’s super validating. The fact that it’s my first Mania competing for a singles title. It’s also my first Mania without my deadbeat dad anywhere around me. It’s definitely an accomplishment for me.”
Dominik Mysterio went on to win the Intercontinental Championship at the PPV. He seemed genuinely surprised at the positive reception of fans, and an overjoyed Mysterio had an extended celebration after the match.
A number of wrestling veteran including Triple H and John Cena have given Prison Dom his flowers since then, discussing his amazing transformation since first emerging on the WWE horizon.
Even Rey Mysterio, the father of the 28-year-old, who suffered a storyline betrayal at the hands of Dirty Dom, was not able to hide his true feelings on his son’s success. You can check out what the WWE Hall of Famer had to say about Dom’s progression here.
Joe Hendry has revealed how he found out about his WrestleMania 41 match.
Randy Orton was left off of the Mania card after his scheduled opponent Kevin Owens had to pull out of the bout due to a neck injury. Still determined to be at the Show of Shows, The Viper decided that he’ll hold an open challenge, and it was answered by none other than the current TNA World Champion.
The viral star had an interview with Ariel Helwani after the PPV to discuss his opponent. While reports suggest that WWE had started considering Hendry as soon as KO made the announcement, the TNA star revealed that he only found out about it the week before the match:
“So, I was in the airport, and I got a text from Triple H saying, ‘can you talk?’ And you know, I was at WWE World. I was scheduled to be there, to be signing things. I thought, you know, maybe something to the effect of, you know, they’ve got the Slammies, or it might be like, you know, doing a promo at WWE World.”
Joe Hendry noted that he was not expecting to make his WrestleMania debut even when Triple H got on the call with him. He was surprised when the match was brought up:
“So, I’m kind of expecting that’s what the call is going to be. And Triple H says, ‘Listen, I’m sure you’re aware that Randy needs an opponent.’ And, yeah, that threw me off completely. I was in a state of shock, but I just, you know, I knew there was a job to be done.”
The WrestleMania bout wasn’t the only WWE appearance for Joe Hendry in the past week. He returned to NXT on Tuesday and teased a champion vs. champion match. You can check out more about it here.
One of the finals for the Owen Hart Cup Tournament has been set.
The TBS Champion Mercedes Mone had advanced to the finals of the tournament during the April 16, Spring BreakThru episode of Dynamite. She defeated ROH Women’s Champion Athena in the first semi final.
The second semi-final took place on tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite from Lakefront Arena in New Orleans. The match, which was the main event of the show, saw Jamie Hayter taking on Kris Statlander.
Both women put their best effort to get to the finals. The ending of the match saw Statlander hitting a 450 splash and going for the pin, but Hayter kicked out at the very last second.
Jamie then countered a dive from Kris with an elbow and hooked her opponent. Jamie Hayter finally delivered a Hayterade and pinned Statlander for the win. Mercedes Mone came out to confront her new opponent and the show went off air with the two staring each other down.
Will Ospreay has already made his way into the finals on the Men’s side, while Kyle Fletcher and “Hangman” Adam Page are set to battle for the other spot soon.
Both the Owen finals will be taking place at the Double or Nothing PPV from Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on May 25.
Karrion Kross returned to WWE in 2022, but fans have noticed a serious shift in momentum for the former NXT Champion over the past year or so. On X, Kross shared a video of his time in Las Vegas for WrestleMania 41. After joking with a passerby that he’s a stripper by the name of Roman Reigns, Kross spoke about how fans have grown more appreciative of him as of late.
“People telling me how happy they were with the AJ [Styles] match. And the Bloodsport match. They liked the little bits and things we did on the SmackDown [Andre the Giant Memorial] Battle Royal.”
Kross is immensely grateful that fans have rallied behind him over the past year, feeling it is the first time that his efforts on the main roster have truly been appreciated. While Kross saw plenty of success in WWE NXT, he’s ready for fans to focus on the here and now.
“I thought that, when I was coming out here, all I was going to hear about was ‘I loved your run on NXT.’ Because that’s all I would run into for the last two and a half years.”
He doesn’t watch Pro Wrestling and asked me who I was.
How could I not give this response?
On a serious note; Overwhelmed by all of it guys… Thank you so much. This doc will be available very soon.
Kross said its hard to hear from fans that their fondest memories of him came when he had the “strap” in 2021, seeing it as an indictment of the past four years. Whether more gold is in Kross’ future, that remains to be seen, but the Raw Superstar is relishing fans appreciating his more recent efforts on WWE TV.
Bianca Belair is a bonafide star in WWE but like every wrestler, there was a time when the EST was a brand-new face in the wrestling world. On X, Belair shared footage of her first WWE tryout, and detailed how inexperienced she was at the time.
“I had no idea how to take a bump, I didn’t even know what a “bump” was let alone what a “promo” was… I was so nervous you can hear the quiver in my voice.”
What Belair did know was how to be herself, and credited Mark Henry for getting her the opportunity. Belair’s rose-themed outfit came from a crossfit competiton she’d competed in. The Raw Superstar openly revealed that at the time, she not only felt like she didn’t belong, but feared she was taking a spot from a more deserving woman.
“I always felt like I was stealing someone else’s dream so I threw myself whole heartedly into this. I dealt with imposter syndrome for A LONG time. I always felt like I had something to prove.”
From then to now…. My 1st tryout…I had no idea how to take a bump, I didn’t even know what a “bump” was let alone what a “promo” was… I was so nervous you can hear the quiver in my voice. I had no idea what I was doing. The only thing I knew how to do was be me, because there… pic.twitter.com/PbQ6PVDcOE
Now, Belair has more than proven herself in the wrestling world and is one of the most popular women in WWE in recent years. Ending with a passionate plea for fans to “Dream big, do thing you didn’t even think were meant for you.” Today, Belair’s battles with imposter syndrome are a thing of the past though she’ll never forget her early fears when joining the wrestling world.
If you didn’t enjoy WrestleMania 41, Triple H has two words for you, and it’s not the two words commonly associated with the DX member. In leaked footage shared from the Roast of WrestleMania with Tony Hinchcliffe, WWE’s Chief Content Officer shared his take on those criticizing this year’s two-nighr Showcase of the Immortals.
Triple H has two words if you didn’t enjoy WrestleMania Weekend
Triple H’s comments not only reflect the envelope-pushing nature of the roast, but also the response many fans have had to WrestleMania 41. Many fans believe that the show failed to deliver, especially in the main event between Cody Rhodes and John Cena. Cena captured his 17th WWE World Championship at WrestleMania 41: Sunday, ending the 378-day reign of the American Nightmare. But with a relatively mundane match and an appearance from Travis Scott but not The Rock, many fans feel this match should have been so much more.
The duo of Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood turned heel, taking out Cope during the Dynasty PPV. The former champions then terrorized Tony Schiavone and attacked Daniel Garcia, Daddy Magic, and Cool Hand Ang on the following Collision.
The tag team returned to AEW programming on this week’s Dynamite, after having been suspended for a week for their recent actions.
FTR’s entrance was followed by a returning Stokely Hathaway. The former manager of Kris Statlander had been missing from AEW programming since the two parted ways following the 2024 All Out PPV.
Hathaway introduced himself as the new agent of FTR and said that he’s getting their suspension expunged from the record, mentioning how people like Jon Moxley, Hangman Page and Ricochet have not been punished for their actions.
The Rock ‘n Roll Express had been at the ringside for tonight’s show, and Dax Harwood then invited them into the ring. Harwood first pretended to respect them but later started insulting the legendary tag team.
Ricky Morton stepped in when he thought FTR had gone too far. Stokely then came forward and said that he has a new shirt they will like. The shirt had the FTR logo on it with a new moniker ‘Living Legend Killers’ written underneath.
FTR proceeded to attack the Rock ‘n Roll Express and take the legends out. The Paragon then came out, leading to Dax and Cash retreating to end the segment.
Logan Paul is serious when it comes to promoting his PRIME brand, and wasn’t afraid to offer ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin big money to sell the beverage. While speaking on the Impaulsive podcast, Logan shared that he and his team once made a huge offer to the Rattlesnake to done the Prime bottle costume before the Texas Rattlesnake said no.
“We offered Steve a million dollars to be in the Prime bottle. He didn’t do it. Oh, he’s not the guy. I don’t care what number it is—he’s not getting in that bottle.”
Appearances by Austin are a rarity in WWE, and fans will seemingly never see him parade around in the blue bottle worn by the likes of KSI and IShowSpeed. Paul believes that WWE fans would never have forgiven Steve if he’d gotten inside the suit.
“I don’t think he even considered it for a second. The WWE Universe would kill him. Imagine it—he face-revealed the Prime bottle.”
Paul hasn’t entirely given up hope, saying that Austin could don the bottle “maybe one year.” For now, don’t expect to see the wrestling icon trading in his patented Steveweisers and cans of whoop-ass for a bottle of Paul’s beverage.
Steve McMichael, known to many as Mongo, has died at the age of 67 after a lengthy battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. McMichael was diagnosed in 2021 and had eben under hospice care before passing away surrounded by family and loved ones.
On X, Ric Flair paid tribute to McMichael, who was once part of the legendary four horsemen. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer called Mongo “My best friend through it all” and “an amaing athlete and human being.”
The World Just Lost The Incredible Steve “Mongo” McMichael! He Was My Best Friend Through It All! An Amazing Athlete And Human Being! I Have The Fondest Memories Working With Him, And This Is An Extremely Heartbreaking Loss For Me! I Love You Mongo! You Fought One Hell Of A… pic.twitter.com/yq2YHfWKmf
Arn Andersion, another member of the four horsemen, also paid tribute to Mongo, calling him “a beast on the football field” and a “real man’s man.” Anderson highlighted that McMichael walked into the pro wrestling with little to no formal training, yet proved to be a natural between the ropes.
McMichael proved himself as a star in both football and wrestling and now his battle has come to an end. We here at SEScoops would like to offer our condolences to those who knew Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael at this sad time.
Jon Moxley has found his next challenger after a wild segment on this week’s episode of Dynamite from the Lakefront Arena in New Orleans.
Master P had been announced to make an appearance on the Wednesday night show and the music star opened the episode. He introduced the new Trios Champions the Opps, who defeated the Death Riders to win the title during the April 16 Dynamite this month.
Samoa Joe grabbed the mic and put over Master P. As he started discussing his title win, however, Death Riders music hit, and Marina Shafir was shown entering through the crowd. The rest of the Death Riders then attacked the Opps.
Moxley eyed P but the guest star did not back down and Samoa Joe was then able to lock the AEW World Champion in the Coquina Clutch.
Master P got on the mic and told Joe to put Mox to sleep. Chaos ensued after this as The Elite, Swerve Strickland and Kenny Omega all made an appearance, working against each other. Samoa Joe then declared that if Moxley wants him, then he’ll get him, and he’s going to take the AEW title back.
AEW later confirmed that Joe will indeed be the next challenger for Jon Moxley’s World title and the match will take place at the upcoming Dynamite Beach Break special on May 14.
Ric Flair has opened up about his long-hidden struggle with agoraphobia, revealing on Busted Open’s Master Class that the anxiety disorder significantly impacted his WWE career.
Flair described agoraphobia as a debilitating fear that sometimes made it impossible for him to leave his house or drive to the airport for work. At its peak, the condition prevented him from performing basic daily tasks and interfered with his ability to meet wrestling commitments.
The WWE Hall of Famer said these struggles were especially intense during the 1990s, a period marked by constant travel, heavy drinking, and sleep deprivation. He recalled experiencing numbness in his hands during matches—an anxiety-driven symptom he now attributes to his mental health challenges.
Throughout his career, Flair estimates he suffered as many as 17 nervous breakdowns. Despite maintaining a strict fitness routine, he acknowledged that overtraining may have worsened his anxiety. Initially relying on medications like Xanax, he later switched to cannabis edibles to manage his symptoms more effectively.
Flair’s candid remarks provide a rare insight into the psychological pressures of life in professional wrestling. By speaking out, he underscores the importance of addressing mental health—even among those who appear larger than life in the ring.
Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the Hall of Fame defensive tackle and beloved Chicago Bears figure, died on Wednesday at age 67 after a prolonged battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Diagnosed in 2021, McMichael had been under hospice care and passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
A cornerstone of the Bears’ dominant 1985 Super Bowl-winning defense, McMichael played 13 seasons in Chicago, earning two All-Pro honors and setting a team record with 191 consecutive games played. His 92.5 career sacks rank second in franchise history, behind only Richard Dent. In 2024, McMichael was formally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s greats.
Beyond his NFL achievements, McMichael transitioned into professional wrestling following his retirement in 1994. He made his debut at WrestleMania XI in 1995, appearing in Lawrence Taylor’s corner during the main event. Later that year, he joined WCW, first as a commentator on Monday Nitro and then as a full-time wrestler by 1996.
Managed by his then-wife Debra, McMichael quickly found success, capturing the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship in 1997 and feuding with stars like Jeff Jarrett. His most memorable run came as a member of the Four Horsemen alongside Ric Flair, Chris Benoit, and Dean Malenko. His tenure included high-stakes rivalries with the nWo, a storyline betrayal by Curt Hennig, and intense showdowns with fellow NFL alumni such as Kevin Greene and Reggie White. A brutal feud with Goldberg in 1997 added further intrigue, featuring McMichael reclaiming his stolen Super Bowl ring in dramatic fashion.
After leaving wrestling in 1999, McMichael remained connected to sports and entertainment, coaching the Chicago Slaughter and hosting local radio shows. In 2008, he made a one-time appearance as a guest referee at TNA’s Bound For Glory.
News of McMichael’s death was shared by Jarrett Payton, son of the late Walter Payton, who had served as the family spokesperson throughout his health battle. The loss has reverberated throughout the NFL and pro wrestling communities, with tributes highlighting his unmatched toughness, charisma, and enduring influence in both sports.
McMichael’s legacy spans generations—as a ferocious competitor on the gridiron and an unforgettable personality in the squared circle.
‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage captivated fans for decades, but nobody knew him quite like his brother Lanny Poffo. In footage shared by Dark Side of the Ring: Unheard, Poffo, also known to wrestling enthusiasts as The Genius, revealed a personal side of the Macho Man that only he experienced.
“Growing up with Randy it was like he was my second father. He was in charge of discipline, he could lecture… But he did it in such a way that I felt good about myself.”
Randy served as a second father to Lanny because their biological father, Angelo Poffo, was a professional wrestler who frequently traveled throughout the United States. Years later, Lanny would apply what he’d learned from both his father figures when he and his ex-wife welcomed their daughter Meghan into the world.
Like many wrestlers’ sons, Randy and Lanny developed a complicated relationship with Angelo. In the recording, Poffo recounted the day he and Randy buried their father in March 2010, and a poignant conversation the brothers shared about who had been the better son.
“Randy got drunk after the funeral and said ‘You were a better son than I was.’ I said ‘I don’t think I was.’ He said ‘Oh yeah you were.’ I said ‘Look what you did for our dad. You gave him that high-end hospital toilet seat and that bed that go, you know all that with your credit card, you did all that. And when they were younger you sent them on first-class trips to Israel, Japan, Hawaii, every place in Europe until they begged you ‘Please stop sending us places, we’re tired.’ And I said ‘You were a better son than I was.'”
“[Randy said] ‘No, you’re a better son because no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t get that battle royal for dad.'”
The battle royal in question was the 1987 WWE Legends Battle Royal, an event that Angelo Poffo was not selected to participate in. Despite all his financial and career achievements—successes Randy ensured his father witnessed—Savage considered his inability to secure his father’s place in the match a profound personal failure.
Lanny Poffo passed away in February 2023, nearly eight years after inducting his late brother into the WWE Hall of Fame. Today, both brothers are fondly remembered by wrestling enthusiasts for their distinctive, though markedly different, personas.
