WWE is trying to force Alberto El Patron out of AAA despite him being one of lucha libre’s “greatest legends,” according to former WWE commentator Hugo Savinovich. Though WWE announced its acquisition of AAA three months ago, the promotion has so far avoided making reference to El Patron on TV.
Speaking to “Lucha Libre Online,” Savinovich, a former WWE commentator, claimed the promotion wants El Patron gone from AAA.
“What will happen to Alberto del Rio? He wasn’t even present at the AAA-WWE inauguration in Los Angeles. Alberto was dethroned by Hijo del Vikingo as Mega Champion.
“AAA and WWE trying to push one of the greatest legends of lucha libre out the door… Does honesty, sacrifice, loyalty, great work mean nothing anymore?”
El Patron competed for years in WWE as Alberto Del Rio, though he has a rocky relationship with the company. In 2014, Alberto was let go after a backstage altercation with a worker. After being rehired the following year, Alberto was cut in 2016 amidst a volatile relationship with Saraya.
Alberto himself has said in the past that he believes he will return to WWE one day. But despite WWE and AAA being closer connected than ever before, his plans for a return seem further away than ever.
WWE Superstar Seth Rollins offered a rare glimpse into what genuine career fulfillment looks like during a heartfelt conversation with a 14-year-old aspiring wrestler on The Rich Eisen Show. Rather than focusing on championships and accolades, Rollins emphasized the relationships and personal growth that have defined his journey in professional wrestling.
When asked about his career satisfaction, Rollins provided an unexpectedly profound response that went far beyond typical wrestler talking points about titles and main events.
“If it all ended tomorrow, I would be extremely satisfied,” Rollins said. “Not only have I been able to accomplish all of these cool milestone things in my life, like winning world titles and main eventing WrestleMania and headlining… it’s the things that I think people don’t really think about like I’ve made some of my best friends in the world through the industry. I have met my wife here. So I have a family because of this business.”
The WWE champion continued to elaborate on how wrestling has enriched his life beyond the ring, highlighting the personal connections that have sustained him throughout his career.
“I’ve been able to travel the world. I get to talk to people like you who tell me that I inspire them, which is pretty insane,” Rollins explained to his young caller. “I’ve been doing this for a long time, so I get that often, but it never is lost on me how incredible it is to be an inspiration to another human being in whatever capacity that is.”
Rollins’ perspective challenges the traditional metrics of success in professional wrestling, where championships and pay-per-view main events are typically viewed as the ultimate achievements. His emphasis on family, friendship, and inspiring others suggests a more holistic approach to measuring career satisfaction.
“I have immense gratitude for my industry and what I’ve been able to do in it,” Rollins concluded, demonstrating the mindset that has helped him maintain longevity and fulfillment in the demanding world of professional wrestling.
This refreshing take on success offers valuable insight not just for wrestling fans, but for anyone pursuing their dreams in competitive industries where external validation often overshadows personal growth and meaningful relationships.
AJ Styles is officially returning to TNA at Slammiversary, over a decade after he last appeared in person for the promotion. For years, Styles’ name was synonymous with TNA, and his legacy with the company continues to be well-remembered to this day.
“We went through that all week as it all came together. We wanted to make sure the logistics of getting AJ to New York were set. As you know as well as anyone, these wrestlers are running around the world. You gotta make sure they can get there.”
Silva didn’t want to announce Styles until everything was finalized for his return to TNA. With that in mind, keeping Styles’ return a surprise was never an option for management.
“It’s AJ Styles. He’s returning, and we just wanted to tell everyone so that everyone could have the best chance to see him at Slammiversary.”
While his exact role at Slammiversary remains unconfirmed, speculation is already swirling. Some believe he could be setting up a future title match against current TNA World Champion Trick Williams. Regardless of what goes down, the return of “The Phenomenal One” has injected a fresh wave of buzz into TNA Slammiversary 2025.
Karrion Kross and Scarlett have been able to travel the world as WWE Superstars, and one of the couple’s recent viral moments wasn’t planned for the show. During a recent episode of WWE Raw in Providence, Rhode Island, Kross ended his promo segment by locking lips with his wife for an over-the-top smooch.
During a recent interview with 10 Count Media, Kross revealed that the passionate kiss he and Scarlett shared during a live episode of Monday Night Raw in Providence was completely improvised.
“Her and I play ribs on each other all the time,” Kross explained. “That one was just more obvious than the other ones that we’ve done live.”
Kross took his wife by surprise as neither are big into public displays of affection. For the pair, such displays remind them of waiting for kisses to finish and for the action to start on WWE TV.
“Her and I being wrestling fans, neither of us ever tuned in to watch wrestling to watch people make out. It’s kind of obnoxious, which is why we’ve always kind of stayed away from kissing on camera.”
Kross was surprised by the overwhelmingly positive crowd response. Despite both he and Scarlett being classed as heels, they got a bigger reaction than some of wrestling’s dastardly duos.
“I was surprised people cheered that, ’cause normally, people—you know, like if you were to see other couples in the past, Edge and Lita—no one was cheering that.”
Kross’ popularity is proving impossible to deny, though many fans are awaiting a big push for the popular Superstar. In the meantime, Kross will continue to take fans (and his wife) by surprise both on and off TV.
WWE nearly revived the Diva Search, according to Kelly Kincaid, who revealed that the project never made it past the casting. Taking to X, the WWE NXT interviewer shared that her first taste of a wrestling contract came from the planned reboot.
I made it to the final round of casting for what seemed to be a Diva Search reboot that never went into production, and that’s basically why I got my first exclusive wrestling contract. https://t.co/AtPL69dnyr
The Diva Search, which ran from 2003 to 2007, was a regular feature on WWE TV, though facec criticism at the time. WWE names like Ashley Massaro, Layla, and Eve Torres, the challenges that contestants had to endure very rarely had anything to do with wrestling prowess. Instead, the women would have to perform objectifying acts to try and earn a contract.
Kincaid joined WWE in 2022 following a brief run in Ring of Honor. Although WWE ultimately shelved the project, the casting process brought fresh talent into the company—Kincaid among them. Since then, she has become a consistent on-screen presence in NXT as a backstage interviewer.
With WWE over a decade into it’s ‘Women’s Revolution,’ concepts like the Diva Search, at least how it was, seem to be a thing of the past. While WWE continues to bring in women from all backgrounds, the focus now is firmly on their talent.
WWE launched on Netflix in January 2025, the product of a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar deal between the two entertainment giants. Fans around the world are enjoying WWE on Netflix, and this deal is certainly paying off.
According to a new report from Variety, WWE content has amassed more than 280 million hours watched globally since joining Netflix. The streaming giant listed WWE alongside other major titles such as Squid Game, Zero Day, Back in Action, and The Electric State in its latest data release.
For fans in the United States, they are able to watch WWE Raw on Netflix. For fans overseas, however, they can enjoy Raw, SmackDown, WWE NXT, and Premium Live Events on the platform. With new content being produced each week, fans can expect plenty more of WWE on Netflix for many years to come.
Wrestling legend Marcus “Buff” Bagwell chooses amputation over continued pain, marking a new chapter in his comeback story
Former WWE and WCW superstar Marcus “Buff” Bagwell has undergone a below-knee amputation of his right leg, ending a five-year medical ordeal that began with a devastating car crash in 2020. The procedure, documented by fellow wrestling veteran Maven Huffman, represents Bagwell’s decision to choose mobility and hope over prolonged suffering.
The Crash That Changed Everything
Bagwell’s journey began in August 2020 when he crashed his vehicle through a $300,000 brick building behind Cumberland Mall in Marietta, Georgia. The former wrestling star, who had been drinking and taking Xanax that evening, blacked out behind the wheel. The impact completely destroyed his right kneecap, with Bagwell describing how it “exploded” on impact.
“I thought I was sober enough to drive, but I blacked out,” Bagwell explained. The crash left him with injuries so severe that traditional knee replacement surgery became impossible.
A Marathon of Failed Surgeries
Over the following years, Bagwell endured more than 30 surgeries in desperate attempts to save his leg. Twenty-one of these procedures occurred in the early aftermath of the accident, as doctors moved his calf muscle in an attempt to preserve the patellar tendon. The interventions left him with multiple open wounds, extensive scarring, and chronic pain.
Despite the medical team’s efforts, Bagwell’s condition only worsened. In 2022, doctors gave him devastating news: there was a 75% chance he would lose the leg anyway. His final prognosis offered only a 20% chance of retaining a functional limb, and only through additional complex surgeries that would leave him permanently immobile.
Addiction and Rock Bottom
The prolonged medical crisis sent Bagwell into a spiral of alcohol and prescription drug abuse. For approximately two years following the accident, he admits to “drinking and staying messed up” as frustration and isolation consumed him.
“I couldn’t do simple things like put on my right shoe without help,” Bagwell revealed. “I would often sleep in it just to avoid needing assistance the next day.”
The wrestling star, once known for his impressive physique and athletic prowess, found himself trapped in his own body for five years.
A Life-Changing Decision
Everything changed when Bagwell met his current partner, Stacy, who provided crucial emotional support. After viewing videos of amputees who had regained active lifestyles, Bagwell made the difficult decision to undergo amputation rather than continue the cycle of failed surgeries.
“I saw this as the only real path forward,” he said before the procedure.
Surgery Day and Recovery
The amputation surgery, originally scheduled for 1.5 to 2 hours, extended beyond five hours due to complications, causing anxiety among family and friends waiting at the hospital. Despite the lengthy procedure, Bagwell emerged in good spirits.
“There’s little pain, but I can still feel my ankle and calf even though they’re gone,” Bagwell reported post-surgery, describing the phantom limb sensations common among amputees.
While acknowledging the emotional impact of seeing his missing leg, Bagwell quickly shifted focus to his recovery and future prospects.
Looking Toward a Wrestling Return
Remarkably, the five-time tag team champion hasn’t ruled out a return to the wrestling ring with a prosthetic leg. Drawing inspiration from other amputee athletes who have regained full mobility, Bagwell views his amputation not as an ending, but as the beginning of a comeback story.
“I want to show others that you can have just as good a life with or without a leg,” Bagwell stated. “This is about becoming a source of hope for people facing life-altering adversity.”
A New Mission
Now 54, Bagwell is transforming his personal struggle into a platform for inspiring others. The man who once dominated wrestling rings alongside legends like Hollywood Hogan is determined to prove that life after amputation can be meaningful, active, and fulfilling.
His story, documented by Maven Huffman who drove 800 miles to capture this pivotal moment, serves as both a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse and a testament to human resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.
For Bagwell, the amputation represents not loss, but liberation—freedom from five years of pain and the beginning of what he calls his “next chapter.“????????????????
WWE Hall of Famer Sting retired from professional wrestling at AEW Revolution in 2024, but “The Icon” has revealed that his original plan for his farewell was slightly different. In a new interview, the legend stated he initially wanted to wrestle his final match as “Old Man Sting.”
Speaking on the Major Figure podcast, Sting discussed his current look, which includes a natural grey beard and hair, and said that was the persona he wanted to have his last match as. He also addressed the fans who are still calling for him to have one more match.
“I actually wanted to retire as Old Man Sting,” he said. “I’ve got enough fans going, ‘One more. Just one more.’ Right, one more match. I’m 66 now, enough is enough.”
Sting’s final run in AEW was a celebrated one, as he went undefeated with a 28-0 record, teaming with his protégé Darby Allin in every match. He retired as one-half of the AEW World Tag Team Champions after he and Allin defeated The Young Bucks at Revolution 2024. “The Icon” is now in his final year of doing convention appearances in his full face paint and gear, having filed a trademark for the “Old Man Sting” name in January.
While Sting has remained retired, the other participants in his final match have been central to recent AEW storylines. His protégé, Darby Allin, made a spectacular return at last weekend’s All In: Texas, rappelling from the stadium roof during the main event. Meanwhile, the men Sting and Allin defeated, The Young Bucks, also had a pivotal night at All In, losing a match that stripped them of their on-screen Executive Vice President roles.
The business numbers are in for this past weekend’s AEW All In: Texas pay-per-view, and the event was a major financial success for the company. A new report from the Wrestling Observer has revealed a strong pay-per-view buyrate and a record-breaking figure for merchandise sales.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the July 12th event is estimated to have done 175,000 buys on pay-per-view. This number would make it the fourth-highest buyrate in AEW history, behind only All Out 2021, All In 2023, and Revolution 2024. The report also notes that the event generated $725,000 in merchandise revenue, the largest amount for any non-WWE wrestling show in the history of the U.S. or Canada.
These numbers align with comments made by AEW President Tony Khan at the post-show press conference. Khan stated that the attendance at Globe Life Field was close to 30,000 fans, which produced the biggest gate for an AEW event ever held in the United States. The company’s overall attendance and gate records remain with the 2023 edition of All In from Wembley Stadium in London, England.
Following the success of All In, AEW will look to continue its momentum as it heads towards its next major pay-per-view, Forbidden Door, on August 24th. The annual crossover event with New Japan Pro-Wrestling will feature dream matches between stars from both promotions, though the card has been impacted by recent injuries to top AEW stars like Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay.
Paul Heyman believes Bronson Reed has been WWE’s best-kept secret for too long, and Seth Rollins’ injury might be the catalyst for his overdue main event push. Speaking to SHAK Wrestling, Heyman provided a ringing endorsement of Reed’s abilities while acknowledging the creative challenges of positioning him properly on the roster. The veteran manager didn’t mince words about Reed’s untapped potential.
“Bronson Reed is the most underappreciated and underutilized monster that we’ve had on the WWE roster in years,” Heyman declared. “And now finally he gets the spotlight to enjoy.”
With Rollins sidelined, Heyman sees a golden opportunity for Reed to face top-tier opponents and showcase his devastating tsunami finishing move against premier talent. The timing couldn’t be better for the Australian powerhouse.
“Before it was an effort just to get Bronson Reed into a main event,” Heyman explained. “Now the main Avengers line up for him and they all get tsunami. And good for Bronson Reed for stepping up into that spotlight because he earned it long before he even had the opportunity to demonstrate that.”
Heyman’s enthusiasm extended beyond just Reed’s in-ring abilities, praising his readiness to seize the moment when given the chance.
“He not only heads the spotlight, but now he gets the right opponents to smash. Now he gets the right opponents to tsunami,” the manager emphasized.
Reed’s elevation reflects WWE’s depth and ability to adapt when top stars are unavailable. Heyman’s comments suggest significant creative investment in Reed’s character moving forward, positioning him as a legitimate threat in the main event scene.
If Heyman’s track record with talent development holds true, Bronson Reed could emerge from this period as a major player.
Paul Heyman isn’t losing sleep over Seth Rollins’ injury concerns, and he wants fans to stop panicking about the Money in the Bank briefcase. Speaking to SHAK Wrestling about the aftermath of Saturday Night’s Main Event, Heyman provided a reality check about the timeline pressures surrounding Rollins’ injury situation.
With nearly a full year remaining on the Money in the Bank contract, WWE’s “Wise Man” sees no urgency whatsoever.
“Seth Rollins has until next June to cash in the Money in the Bank contract,” Heyman stated matter-of-factly. “If his leg fell off in the ring, they would reattach it and he’d heal by next June.”
The “Wise Man” dismissed widespread speculation about what WWE will do with the briefcase during Rollins’ absence.
“Until we’re crashing into that deadline, I don’t really see the big deal of, well, what are they going to do with the money in the bank?” Heyman continued. “We’re going to enjoy the anticipation of Seth Rollins return by next June to cash in the Money in the Bank contract.”
Heyman’s comments reflect WWE’s evolved approach to injury management, prioritizing long-term performer health over short-term storytelling concerns. This represents a significant shift from wrestling’s traditionally “work through the pain” mentality.
“Seth Rollins being injured is a fact of life and it is an inherent danger in this industry,” Heyman acknowledged. “As the veterans will tell you, this ain’t ballet.”
Fans can expect Rollins to return when he’s medically cleared, with plenty of time to capitalize on his Money in the Bank opportunity.
Travis Scott’s involvement with WWE is in jeopardy following backstage frustrations over his commitment issues.
After several high profile appearances alongside Jey Uso, The Rock and John Cena, Scott has faded from the WWE spotlight.
A new report from Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicate that WWE’s plans for a significant celebrity tag team match involving Scott and Cena have stalled due to Scott’s lack of commitment.
“He doesn’t like to commit to anything. He goes half-in, and tries other projects at the same time.”
– Wrestling Observer Newsletter
It is noted that Scott skipped crucial training sessions and has been challenging to work with. The internal reaction at WWE is pessimistic about Scott’s future involvement, suggesting they may be ready to move on from him.
“I heard he was ‘not a quick learner for the business.’”
WrestleVotes
With Travis Scott’s in-ring prospects fizzling out, WWE has tapped Jelly Roll for the big celebrity tag team match at SummerSlam.
After days of strategic social media hints using the word “PHENOMENAL” and building anticipation during Thursday’s iMPACT! broadcast on AXS TV, Silva ended the mystery with the official announcement that has wrestling fans buzzing worldwide.
A Homecoming Years in the Making
Styles’ return to TNA represents a significant moment for the promotion he called home for over a decade. As one of the greatest stars in TNA history, his presence at Slammiversary adds immediate star power and nostalgic appeal to what wrestling insiders are already calling the biggest TNA show in years.
While Silva confirmed Styles will be part of the event, he remained tight-lipped about exactly what role the former WWE Champion will play at Slammiversary. This air of mystery only adds to the anticipation surrounding his appearance.
Venue Expansion Shows Confidence
The excitement around Styles’ return is already translating to ticket sales. Silva revealed on social media that they’re “moving the stage back to accommodate more fans,” indicating strong demand for what promises to be a landmark event.
Slammiversary will feature two major championship matches that highlight TNA’s growing partnership with WWE’s NXT brand:
TNA World Championship: Trick Williams (NXT Champion) defends against former TNA World Champion Joe Hendry and hometown hero Mike Santana in a three-way match
Title Unification Match: NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne battles TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich, with the winner claiming both championships
The cross-promotional elements of these matches, combined with AJ Styles’ surprise involvement, position Slammiversary as potentially the most significant TNA event in recent memory.
What to Expect
With Styles’ specific role still under wraps, speculation runs wild about whether he’ll compete, make a special appearance, or perhaps play a different role entirely. What’s certain is that his presence elevates the entire card and gives longtime TNA fans a reason to witness what could be a historic night.
Slammiversary takes place this Sunday, July 20th at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster for what promises to be an unforgettable night of professional wrestling.
WWE is actively developing three key superstars as the future faces of their main event scene, according to a new report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. The company has identified Rhea Ripley, Jacob Fatu, and Bron Breakker as cornerstone talents who will eventually carry major storylines and championship programs.
The strategic positioning of these three wrestlers demonstrates WWE’s commitment to building a diverse and compelling roster for the years ahead. Each superstar currently holds a significant role within their respective brands and storylines.
Rhea Ripley
Rhea Ripley continues to establish herself as the prominent future face of the women’s division. The former Women’s World Champion is set to compete at SummerSlam, maintaining her position at the forefront of WWE’s women’s programming. Her combination of in-ring ability and natural charisma has made her one of the most compelling performers on the roster.
Jacob Fatu
On SmackDown, Jacob Fatu has emerged as a leading babyface figure, currently involved in the ongoing Bloodline storyline. His athletic ability and connection with audiences have positioned him as a natural successor to carry major feuds on the blue brand.
Bron Breakker
Meanwhile, Bron Breakker has carved out a major role on Raw, working closely with Paul Heyman’s faction and participating in main event storylines alongside Roman Reigns. The former NXT Champion’s intensity and legitimate athletic background have made him a standout performer in WWE’s flagship programming.
“The idea right now is to groom Ripley, Fatu and Breakker to be the people to be with them and eventually in those spots.”
This long-term approach reflects WWE’s understanding that building sustainable main event talent requires careful development and strategic positioning. By integrating these wrestlers into high-profile storylines now, the company is ensuring they will be ready to carry the promotion when the time comes for the next generation to take center stage.
A new report has revealed the backstage reasoning behind the decision to end The Young Bucks’ long-running storyline as on-screen Executive Vice Presidents at this past weekend’s AEW All In: Texas pay-per-view.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the high-stakes tag team match against Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay was specifically designed to conclude the authority figure angle for Matt and Nick Jackson. The report states the feeling was it had run its course so it was time to get them back to being a great wrestling tag team.
While the outcome saw the Bucks lose their EVP status, the report notes that another finish was “absolutely discussed and considered.” An alternate plan would have seen Strickland and Ospreay lose, banning them from challenging for the AEW World Championship for an entire year. However, the report adds that The Young Bucks themselves insisted on taking the loss. On the following episode of AEW Dynamite, the brothers were shown struggling to adapt to life without their executive powers.
The victory has major implications for the winning team. Swerve Strickland is now free to challenge for the AEW World Championship at any time. However, his partner Will Ospreay will be unable to capitalize on the momentum, as it was also reported this week that Ospreay is taking an extended hiatus to recover from injuries that are believed to be worse than first anticipated.
TNA Wrestling star Mike Santana recently explained why he left AEW in 2024, citing lack of growth and unhappiness. In an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, he emphasized his need for personal and professional growth, which he felt was lacking at AEW.
“I’m the type of person where I need constant growth in my life. Especially in this line of work.”
Mike Santana, The Ariel Helwani Show
After his storyline with former partner Ortiz ended, Santana was not featured in TV tapings, leading him to request his release, which was granted after several tries.
“I’m also not the type of person that I can sit and collect a paycheck. That’s not me… I looked at it as I need to do what’s best for me, my career, my life, and my sanity. I did exactly that.”
Mike Santana, The Ariel Helwani Show
After several requests to be released from his contract, AEW finally granted his wish. Once he realized it was time to move on, there was nothing left to discuss.
“‘Yo, just get me out of here. I’m good.’ I asked two or three times and finally they granted me my release and I was like, ‘Thank you.’”
Mike Santana, The Ariel Helwani Show
Mike Santana is set for a major spotlight at TNA Slammiversary 2025, headlining the main event – a triple threat match for the TNA World Championship against NXT’s Trick Williams and Joe Hendry at UBS Arena in New York.
After a remarkable solo run since returning to TNA in 2024, having previously been celebrated as a tag team legend, Santana’s latest storyline centers on his personal journey and motivation to win the World Title, aiming to present the belt to his daughter.
Santana’s recent run in TNA includes high-profile victories and show-stealing performances, while his appearances in NXT, including a successful debut and a heated rivalry with Trick Williams, have not only impressed fans but also garnered praise from WWE officials—underscoring his rising stock as both promotions spotlight his crossover talent and emotional comeback.
Jim Ross has his doubts about Goldberg’s recent retirement, suggesting that the former WCW and WWE World Champion isn’t finished with pro wrestling just yet.
On the latest episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Ross discussed Goldberg’s match at Saturday Night’s Main Event against GUNTHER. Despite it being billed as a retirement match, Ross believes with smart booking and the right opponents, Goldberg could show up in AEW.
He highlighted Goldberg’s maintained shape and unique talent as assets leading to potential future contributions in wrestling, particularly with well-designed matches and presentation.
“I think somewhere down the road, we’ll see Goldberg again. I don’t know exactly what the presentation will be, but I don’t think we’ve seen the last of him.”
Grilling JR
Wrestling retirements were never known to be permanent, and with Goldberg frustrated with how his WWE sendoff went down, he could be motivated to write his own final chapter.
“If he’s booked the right way and not overexposed, and if he’s in there with the right opponent, Billy could absolutely be back in the hunt for something. He’s proven he still draws—he’s a very unique talent.”
Grilling JR
Ross then suggests Maxwell Jacob Friedman as an ideal final opponent for Goldberg, and thinks MJF would be better suited for that role than Gunther.
“I just don’t think you blow it off at this point. There’s still something there. Maybe one of the right opponents could be a guy like MJF in AEW—someone who can talk, play the heel perfectly, take big bumps, and do all the right things to set Goldberg up for success.”
Grilling JR
Bill Goldberg joining AEW has sparked debate after he expressed frustration with how WWE handled his retirement. Goldberg was disappointed that his final match with Gunther was announced on short notice with little fanfare, and his farewell speech was cut short due to time constraints.
While a move to AEW seems unlikely right now, the door remains open given Goldberg’s desire for a more respectful send-off and AEW’s track record with veteran farewells.
WWE is reportedly considering sending wrestler Omos to AAA, expanding his presence outside the WWE ring. Previously, Omos had a successful stint in Japan with NOAH, where he won the GHC Heavyweight Tag Team Championship.
WWE creative has discussed sending Omos to AAA for a run, similar to his brief NOAH stint this past winter. Per source, the idea is to further establish him as a true special attraction outside the WWE bubble.
WWE has leveraged the 7’3” Omos as an attraction whose colossal size instantly positions him as a spectacle in the modern wrestling landscape. His role in WWE has ranged from Raw Tag Team Champion alongside AJ Styles to high-profile singles matches against heavyweights like Bobby Lashley and Brock Lesnar, and most recently, WWE has considered sending him to international promotions like AAA and Pro Wrestling NOAH to establish him as a global special attraction while under their contract.
Booking a giant like Omos presents unique creative challenges. It can be difficult to craft compelling, believable rivalries since his physical dominance can make most matches seem uneven, diminishing suspense or emotional investment in the outcome.
Despite these challenges, “The Nigerian Giant” has thrived both as an awe-inspiring charismatic talent. He’s cultivated a passionate fanbase, the “Omosapiens”, and is a rare example of a successful modern wrestling giant.
Following his grueling championship match at this past weekend’s AEW All In: Texas pay-per-view, Kenny Omega is reportedly expected to take some time off from the company. The former world champion was absent from this week’s television tapings.
According to a report from Fightful Select, AEW sources have confirmed that Omega is expected to be off television for at least a stretch. It is currently unclear whether his time off will be a complete break from programming or if he will make sporadic appearances. On this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite, Omega’s former manager, Don Callis, repeatedly referred to him as “dead” after his loss at the pay-per-view.
Omega’s expected absence comes just a few months after his return from a career-threatening battle with diverticulitis that sidelined him for most of early 2025. Since his return, he has competed in ten matches, culminating in a 30-minute war with Kazuchika Okada at All In, where the AEW International and Continental Championships were unified.
Omega joins a growing list of top AEW stars who are currently on hiatus. As has been previously reported, Adam Cole is out indefinitely with concussion issues, Will Ospreay is taking time off to heal from injuries, and Samoa Joe has begun a brief absence to handle promotional work for his television series.
Paul Heyman has explained the genius of Bray Wyatt.
The wrestling advocate recently had an interview with Shak Wrestling to promote WWE 2K25. He discussed things such as Seth Rollins’ injury, how the relationship between companies and wrestling media has changed and more.
When asked to speak on the creativity of Bray Wyatt, Heyman discussed how the late star played multiple characters at the same time during his later WWE run. He explained that they were distinct characters that were feeding off each other instead of being the split personality of one person.
The former ECW owner then recalled the promo Wyatt cut right after his 2022 WWE return, where Bray opened up about his mental health struggles. Paul claimed that any other creative person would have advised against it, but the former world champion pulled it off:
“He was uninhibited in his approach. He was fearless. He didn’t look at a place for the character to go with any apprehension at all. So at first, when you understood that he’s presenting a dual personality, some would say a split personality, but that he’s actually playing two completely different characters that feed off of each other at the very same time. And the brilliance of that.
And then at a time when you would think that the dark side of that character would show itself to come out on television at his most vulnerable, and be open with that. Anyone that I know that has been in a creative capacity in this or any other industry would tell you, ‘Don’t do that. Whatever you do, don’t do that.’
In fact, that’s the last thing you should do. Why would you allow the vulnerabilities of that character to be shown, especially at this moment upon your return? Yet he did it. With such authenticity that he made us all look bad by saying, ‘What’s he doing? Why would he do this?’ Because he’s so committed.”
Paul Heyman later mentioned that Bray Wyatt was fully committed to his work and only he could understand the true depth of it all. Per the 59-year-old, it’ll be years before we start appriciating the full extent of his brilliance:
“He was so embedded within the framework of that character that he could pull anything he wanted off. Because he did it with such passion and love for the performance and understanding of the character. He understood that character and the characters that were all built within the character, better than anybody else.
Better than any producer, writer, director that we had on staff or someone else from the outside. He got Bray Wyatt. He understood Bray Wyatt. He was Bray Wyatt and to his massive credit.
Because it’s a body of work that has yet to be truly examined. Years from now, when we look back and start to micro dissect what he did, I think we’ll realize he’s even far more brilliant than any of us ever realized.”
WWE’s next big PPV is only 15 days away, and the company has been busy building storylines and announcing matches for the show.
One big name that has been missing from all the promotion for the event, however, is that of Cardi B. The music star was announced as the host for the Biggest Party of the Summer back in April.
Though she has scarcely been included into the build for the show, making many wonder if her deal with the company had fallen apart.
Fightful Select recently provided an update on the situation after reaching out to the company in an official capacity. Per the site, nothing has changed regarding Cardi B’s status and the rapper is still set for the PPV in August.
The report also noted that WWE has long been making plans for the show with B in mind. Though they did not elaborate further, so it’s hard to say if this indicates a wrestling angle involving the female star being planned for the show.
Cardi B is not the only name from the music industry that will be at SummerSlam this year. Jelly Roll is set for a tag team match at the event and he’ll be making multiple WWE appearances in coming weeks. You can check out his WWE schedule before the show here.
The former WCW Champion blasted WWE’s handling of his Saturday Night’s Main Event match against Gunther during his interview with Ariel Helwani. He claimed that the company did not reciprocate the effort he put into his final match, and the build for the bout did not do justice to his career accomplishments.
A lot of people were critical of Goldberg’s take on the whole thing. Many have been saying that he was being ungrateful despite being given a big retirement match which was promoted in advance, a chance that even legends like Triple H and The Undertaker have not been afforded.
Wrestling personality Peter Rosenberg criticized the former Champion’s take on the whole thing on X. Rosenberg discussed how the 58-year-old has been delivering underwhelming performances for years while cashing in big checks. He then called out Goldberg for not appreciating the big stage for his final match, while most wrestlers only get a message wishing them best in their future endeavors:
I respect Goldberg and he seems like a decent man but WTF was he thinking man? He has been collecting check after check against top guys and putting on mediocre matches … and gets a hell of a send off. And then complains?? I'm lost pic.twitter.com/UCUlIipdQe
TNA star Nic Nemeth, who was squashed by the Hall of Famer in a 2-minute match at SummerSlam 2019, compared his reaction to that of Hangman Page. Page won the AEW title at All In Texas, the same day as Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Nemeth mentioned how Page thanked everyone else for his All In success in his Dynamite promo this past Wednesday, while the former Universal Champion only cared about himself:
Our own @NicTNemeth explains how Hangman Page succeeded where @Goldberg seems to have fallen short.
— SiriusXM Busted Open (@BustedOpenRadio) July 17, 2025
Goldberg has declared that he’ll be speaking more about his frustrations with his final match in 2 weeks, and we can expect some more strong reactions then.
Naomi may have captured the Women’s World Championship at Evolution, but not everything is perfect right now for the new titleholder. Now, Naomi is calling on fans in Atlanta for help—and she’s offering a cash reward to anyone who can solve the mystery of her missing suitcase scooter.
Naomi took to X to share that her customized suitcase scooter, designed by special effects artist Jason Baker, went missing at the State Farm Arena last week. Naomi is so eager to be reunited with her case, that she’s offering a cash reward to any fan who can help her get the suitcase back.
My suitcase scooter ? ? that @bakingjason customized for me and I love dearly got left at the @statefarmarena and can’t be found. If you see anybody in #atlanta riding it push them off and call me ???. I will also give a cash reward to whoever solves this mystery and help me… pic.twitter.com/mg2UjGPpZ0
The case won’t be hard to miss as it features a black design with Naomi’s signature caution tape, a key part of her aesthetic since turning heel. The intricate design is the work of Jason Baker, a horror effects legend who has worked with WWE several times. Examples of Baker’s work includes the design of the Fiend, Uncle Howdy, Triple H’s WrestleMania 30 entrance, and the Lily doll, to name just a few.
One can only hope that somebody spots the scooter and gets it back to Naomi. For the champ, this isn’t just an item to hold luggage, but it is a key aspect of her journey to the top of WWE.
Kurt Angle has faced countless wrestlers, but now the Olympic Gold Medalist is on the hunt for a very rare match. On X, Angle recalled facing Owen Hart in a dark match mere days before Hart’s tragic passing at Over the Edge. In his plea, Angle was hopeful that a fan recorded the match and encouraged anyone with footage to get in touch.
In 1999 I had the privilege of wrestling the legendary Owen Hart in a dark match in the WWE 5 days before his unfortunate death. Til this day, I haven’t seen any video footage of it. If anyone has ever seen the footage of my match with Owen, message me in the comments below.… pic.twitter.com/NT46RX7q9P
Considered by many as two of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time, a showdown between Hart and Angle would be a must-see if footage exists. With Hart fondly remembered for his matches to this day, it’s hardly a surprise that Kurt hopes that somebody will have footage of his time in the ring with the Rocket.
Over 25 years after his passing, Owen Hart remains a beloved name in wrestling, and tributes continue to pour for the Canadian legend. It remains to be seen if footage of Hart Vs. Angle ever sees the light of day.
TNA Slammiversary has a stacked card lined up, but for the Hardy brothers, it might mark the end of their careers in the ring. During the July 17 episode of TNA iMPACT, Matt and Jeff Hardy stepped into the ring to deliver a promo that went far beyond typical pre-match hype. With a shot at the TNA World Tag Team Titles looming in a four-way ladder match, the brothers addressed the high-stakes involved in such a match. Jeff then admitted that this may be the last time fans see the pair in the ring.
“If we don’t win the world tag team titles at Slammiversary, maybe it’s time for the Hardy party to end.”
Matt and Jeff Hardy have announced that if they don't win the TNA Tag Team Titles at Slammiversary, that maybe it's time for the Hardy Party to end. #TNAiMPACTpic.twitter.com/XqMAHB7Zt7
It was a sobering moment that underscored just how high the stakes have become ahead of Slammiversary. Matt followed with a candid reflection of his own, admitting they “don’t want to be shells of themselves” and being upfront, acknowledging that “the business will move on without the Hardys.”
During promo, the two pointed out how their momentum has faded since losing the TNA Tag Team Titles. The duo lost their World Tag Team Titles to the Nemeths at Rebellion back in April. Though this title change was not clean, that hasn’t stopped Ryan and Nic from claiming to be the greatest brother tag team of all time.
At Slammiversary, the Hardys will compete in a chaotic four-way ladder match against First Cla$$ (K.C. Navarro & A.J. Francis), The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz), and the champions, Ryan and Nic Nemeth. Time will tell if the Hardyz regain the gold, or if fans see the last of them in the ring at Slammiversary.
