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Vince McMahon Parts With PR Firm Ahead of Netflix Docuseries Launch

Thomas Lowson
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This week, four years after it was first announced, Netflix’s docuseries about the life, career, and legacy of Vince McMahon will launch on the streaming giant. In the run-up to its launch, McMahon had begun working with a PR film, but now Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics reports that this partnership has come to an end.

McMahon is no longer being represented by Sitrick And Company, a firm that he’d been aligned with since April of this year. When asked about the reason for the end of the relationship, Michael Sitrick, founder of the firm, refused to go into in-house details, stating “With respect to clients, we don’t comment beyond the fact that we are no longer working together.”

Sitrick And Company

Like his now-former client, Sitrick has garnered quite a reputation in his field, with Fortune once calling him an “accomplished practitioner of the dark arts of public relations.” The L.A. Times had a similar take to Sitrick, calling him a “puppet master” who’s pulled the strings behind some of the media’s biggest stories. Sitrick And Company has presented some huge names including Pepsi, Make-A-Wish, and the late Kobe Bryant.

Mr. McMahon on Netflix

It’s not just Sitrick And Company that McMahon has distanced himself from in recent days. This week, McMahon issued a statement criticizing Netflix’s docuseries about him, arguing that it misrepresents him through editorial choices and out-of-context footage. It’s been reported that McMahon attempted a ‘Catch-and-Kill’ on the docuseries; attempting to buy the rights to it to prevent it ever being released but Netflix refused to sell. This attempt, and a subsequent offer from Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel, was made before WWE reached a deal with Netflix to bring WWE Raw to streaming in January 2025.

Over two years on from his initial departure from WWE, McMahon remains a controversial figure among fans and those in the industry. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Vince McMahon and his efforts to handle his legacy in this post-WWE chapter of his life.

Stephanie Vaquer Makes WWE NXT Debut, Sets Sights On Title Gold

Thomas Lowson
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Stephanie Vaquer signed with WWE in July of this year and following her debut match at a Mexico City live event, made clear she would be coming to NXT. Now, the former CMLL Women’s Champion has made good on that vow and has her sights set on becoming the WWE NXT Women’s Champion.

This week’s WWE NXT (the final before the gold brand’s move to The CW) saw Roxanne Perez and Giulia field questions ahead of next week’s title match. Speaking from San Fernando, Chile, and appearing via satellite, Vaquer interrupted proceedings, asking what the pair would do knowing they have her waiting for them on the other end of the title match.

While this marked Vaquer’s WWE NXT debut, it’s been teased for some time that Vaquer would be entering the women’s title picture. Mere days after Vaquer joined WWE, Roxanne Perez declared her superiority over both Vaquer and Giulia, making clear that the NXT Women’s Champion is keeping a close eye on her potential challenger.

Whether it’s Perez or Giulia who hold the gold this time next week, Stephanie Vaquer is waiting in the wings for a shot at the NXT Women’s Championship. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on the CMLL alum and her role in NXT’s new era on The CW.

Rey Fenix Teases New Chapter as Lucha Bros. Future Remains Uncertain

Thomas Lowson
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Rey Fenix, alongside Penta El Zero Miedo, has been with All Elite Wrestling since 2019 and the Lucha Bros. are considered one of the greatest tag teams in the company’s history. As of late, there’s been plenty of talk about the future of the tag team in wrestling, and now a social media post from Fenix has left fans believing something big is coming.

On Instagram, Fenix shared several photos, many of which came from his time with All Elite Wrestling. Fenix’s caption “Bendita Lucha Libre, Gracias por todo” (Bless Lucha Libre, thanks for everything) certainly suggested that he is preparing to start a new chapter in his career.

image 25

Fenix’s post comes amid reports that he and Penta could soon be part of WWE, if they’re not already. Last month, it was reported that the Lucha Bros. were expected to leave AEW, and when Fenix withdrew from an independent event, many saw it as a sign he’d already joined WWE. Last week, it was reported that the pair had signed a multi-year deal with WWE, one that would see them skip WWE NXT and head straight to the main roster. The comments on the Instagram post saw many wishing the pair well in WWE, believing they are leaving AEW to join Tony Khan’s chief rival.

An update has stated that Fenix and Penta are still under contract with AEW, raising questions as to what the future of the group will look like. Should they join WWE, the pair will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Women’s Tag Champion Jade Cargill, NXT Champion Ethan Page, and others.

No matter what the future holds, fans can expect to see much more of the talented Rey Fenix and Penta El Zero Miedo in the squared circle. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on the Lucha Bros. and their futures in wrestling.

WWE Trainee Vincent Winey Debuts as Harlem Lewis on NXT Level Up

Thomas Lowson
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Vicent Winey recently appeared on WWE Monday Night Raw, where he lost a squash match to Odyssey Jones. While Jones’ career in WWE is now a distant memory, Winey’s future looks bright, as he’s received a brand new name by the promotion.

Winey made his in-ring debut as Harlem Lewis during the latest taping of WWE NXT Level Up with a loss to Dante Chen. WWE recently trademarked the name Harlem Lewis, confirming its use for Winey going forward. Winey has also changed his name on Twitter/X to Harlem Lewis, confirming the moniker he hopes to make a name for himself with.

Vincent Winey

Harlem Lewis joined WWE earlier this year and in addition to his Raw appearance last month, has been appearing at NXT live events under the Winey name. So far, he is yet to score a victory in WWE and is sitting at a 0-9 win/loss record. His most recent match saw him on the losing eight of an eight-person tag at NXT’s August 23, live event in Fort Pierce.

Sporting Past

Before wrestling, Lewis played as a linebacker for the Morehead State Eagles Football team and played in the NCAA Division 1 league. In 2021, he began playing for the Ancona Dolphins, an American football team based in Ancona, Italy, again as a Linebacker.

WWE Romance

Lewis is currently dating WWE NXT’s Cora Jade, who had previously been in a relationship with Monday Night Raw’s Bron Breakker. In April, Jade and Lewis confirmed their relationship with a series of Instagram Stories. Jade has missed most of 2024 after suffering a torn ACL in January but teased a return to the ring in August.

As Harlem Lewis, Winey hopes to take NXT by storm and eventually make it to WWE’s main roster. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Harlem Lewis and his future as an NXT Superstar.

Nikki Garcia’s Husband Artem Chigvintsev Not Facing Charges After Domestic Violence Arrest

Andrew Ravens
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Despite being arrested for domestic violence, Nikki Garcia’s husband, Artem Chigvintsev, won’t be facing charges. He had been arrested on charges of felony corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant in late August. 

Following the incident, the former WWE star filed for divorce after contacting attorneys and looking to get the proceedings. On Tuesday, it was revealed in a statement by the Napa County District Attorney’s Office that Chigvintsev will not face charges relating to his arrest. The statement reads as the following: 

“Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley announced today that her office has declined to file criminal charges against Artem Chigvintsev, age 42, in connection with his arrest on suspicion of felony domestic violence. The decision not to file charges against Mr. Chigvintsev was made after a thorough review of the criminal investigation and careful evaluation of the evidence presented to the DA’s Office.

While we take every arrest seriously and stand firmly against domestic violence, we have an ethical obligation to only file charges when supported by the evidence. We are required to prove any and every criminal charge ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ which is the highest standard in the American criminal justice system. If the available evidence doesn’t rise to this level of proof, then we cannot ethically file charges.

Domestic violence can either be filed as a felony or a misdemeanor and has a statute of limitations of three years or one year, respectively. At any time within the statute of limitations, the Napa County District Attorney’s Office may revisit the case if it learns of other incidents, or otherwise learns of facts or evidence not previously known.”

The couple got together in 2018 before welcoming their four-year-old son. They got married in 2022 after a multi-year delay in the ceremony happening. Artem has yet to publicly comment on the situation. 

William Regal Sets the Record Straight on His AEW Departure

Michael Reichlin
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William Regal has long been a pivotal figure in professional wrestling, particularly in WWE’s NXT brand, where he played an instrumental role in its growth and success. With the final NXT episode on USA Network airing this week, Regal took to social media to reflect on his journey with the brand and address rumors surrounding his stint in All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

In response to a video posted by WWE commemorating this era, Regal shared a heartfelt message on Twitter, thanking key figures like Triple H, Shawn Michaels, and Matt Bloom for their efforts in shaping NXT’s evolution. Regal’s post read:

“I was part (except for H’s family) of the very beginning of @WWE’s @NXT. I’m still involved but not as much as I was. Thank you to H, Shawn, Matt and everyone else that fought the fight of making a one-hour program on The WWE Network to traveling the world and making new stars and memories for the fans. It continues today. Doesn’t matter what the color scheme is or was, or has been—we changed the wrestling world, although few will want to admit it. It’s been the best part of a 41-year career being @WWENXT to the core.”

Defending His AEW Run

While Regal expressed pride in his NXT tenure, a fan brought up his time with AEW, where he briefly worked in 2022. The fan thanked Regal for his contributions to NXT but also referenced his “snaking out the competition”—an implication that he had nefarious motives while working for a rival promotion.

Regal was quick to push back, clarifying the reasons behind his AEW tenure and debunking any rumors about leaving under questionable circumstances. He responded with a firm message to set the record straight:

“FYI, although it serves some people’s agenda and despite a massive amount of people in AEW who can back me up, I went to AEW to help because Bryan Danielson asked me to. Please find me one person who can say otherwise. I arrived at 10 a.m. and stayed until 6:15 p.m. to train anyone who wanted to come. Apart from going to the restroom and refilling my water container, I never attended a single production meeting. I needed people to realize I was only there to help, not to interfere.”

Regal further clarified his lack of involvement in AEW’s internal workings, noting:

“I didn’t ask a single question about anyone’s contract status. I helped at the ring with whatever the talent needed. I showered, got into a suit by 6:30, and watched the monitor with everyone else. Feel free to ask anyone backstage if I did anything but help with no agenda.”

Additionally, Regal addressed a rumor about a personal phone call with AEW President Tony Khan during a difficult family period. Regal explained:

“I didn’t call Tony when his mom was ill—he called me. As soon as he told me where he was, I ended the phone call, and we spoke two weeks later. My deal was up in December 2022, and that’s when I left. These are all facts I can prove. Anyone trying to twist this can feel free to check.”

His time in AEW, though brief, gave us the Blackpool Combat Club and some other memorable moments. As NXT enters a new chapter on The CW, Regal’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with the brand’s success. His son Charlie Dempsey is the reigning NXT Heritage Cup Champion and the leader of the No Quarter Catch Crew faction.

Titus O’Neil Featured on “I Am The Storm” WWE Bad Blood Track

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil is featured on the song “I Am The Storm” by Vo Williams, which accompanied the highly praised segment between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns on the September 20 episode of SmackDown.

The cinematic confrontation, filmed at Reigns’ alma mater Georgia Tech, set the stage for the upcoming tag team match at Bad Blood, where Rhodes and Reigns will team up to face the new Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fat of The Bloodline.

In the segment, the two top stars agreed to support each other in the upcoming match while teasing a potential renewal of their own rivalry, adding more depth to their dynamic. It’s still pretty surreal to see these former hated rivals working together against a common enemy, but this segment deserves the acclaim it’s received and this tag match is going to be something.

Titus O’Neil’s Involvement

O’Neil is credited with a guest spot on “I Am The Storm,” along with artist Sonya Bryson-Kirksey. The former Prime Time Player confirmed his involvement on social media.

I Am The Storm Titus O'Neil

Twitter user @Ucepenitentiary identified that O’Neil’s voice is used in the opening of the song.

Vo Williams says the streaming numbers were “wild” after the song premiered on SmackDown. He’s helped pioneer a genre that’s been dubbed Epic Hip Hop, which can best be described as anthemic hype songs that you’d hear at championship sports games.

Preview: WWE NXT’s Final USA Network Episode Before Move to The CW

Michael Reichlin
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This week’s episode of WWE NXT marks the end of an era, as it will be the final broadcast on the USA Network before the show officially moves to The CW. Since its debut as a standalone show on USA in September 2019, NXT has grown into a vital part of WWE’s programming lineup, transitioning from its developmental roots into a legitimate third brand.

As NXT closes this chapter, the September 24 episode promises to deliver high-impact matches and segments that will set the tone for the show’s future on The CW.

Here’s a preview of what fans can expect, live from Orlando, FL:

  • NXT on CW Press Conference: Featuring Ethan Page, Trick Williams, Giulia, Roxanne Perez, Wes Lee, and Zachary Wentz
  • NXT Women’s North American Championship match: Kelani Jordan (c) vs. Wren Sinclair
  • Singles Match: Lexis King vs. Oro Mensah
  • Singles Match: Ridge Holland vs. Riley Osborne
  • The Grayson Waller Effect featuring Nathan Frazer and Axiom

NXT’s Evolution on USA Network

NXT first debuted on the USA Network on September 18, 2019, marking a significant milestone in WWE’s decision to showcase NXT as a two-hour live program, in direct competition with rival wrestling promotions. This move was pivotal in NXT’s transition from WWE’s developmental system to being recognized as the company’s third major brand, alongside Raw and SmackDown.

Prior to its arrival on USA, NXT had aired on the WWE Network, with occasional broadcasts on USA as part of special programming. The expanded exposure allowed NXT to reach a broader audience, helping it cultivate stars who have since become mainstays in WWE’s larger ecosystem.

The Road to The CW

With NXT’s move to The CW, WWE aims to reach an even wider audience, positioning the brand for continued growth. The NXT on CW Press Conference this week featuring stars like Ethan Page, Trick Williams, and Roxanne Perez will provide a look at what’s to come in the next chapter.

Stay tuned for more updates as NXT prepares for its debut on The CW and continues to evolve as a dynamic force in professional wrestling.

Playlist: “WWE NXT on The CW” Superstar Profiles

Watch John Cena Uppercut Mark Zuckerberg in Ray-Ban Meta Ad

Dominic DeAngelo
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John Cenna may have added a new move to his repertoire against famous Facebook mogul Mark Zuckerberg.

The future WWE Hall Of Famer was far from playing Peacemaker in a new promotional video ad for Ray-Ban Meta sunglasses. Zuckerberg released some footage of his “fight” with Cena on his Instagram page.

The two major players are seen duking it out with the Meta glasses on and you get to see the first-person view of a great deal of the action going down. Cena gets a good uppercut in on Zuckerberg which shows the entrepreneur flying to the sky after the shot.

Reuters initially reported that Cena has signed on with Meta and Ray-Bans to be the voice of the Meta AI Chatbot. While Wednesday’s focus for pro wrestling fans will be the release of the “Mr. McMahon” docuseries on Netflix and AEW Grand Slam that evening, Cena could very well be a busy man at the Connect Conference.

Meta plans to discuss the glasses’ audio capabilities during the event on September 26. Consumers can purchase the Meta Ray-Bans at a starting price point of $299. A description of the glasses on the Ray-Ban website is as follows:

“Inspired by an era of jet-set style, the Skyler smart glasses help keep you fully in the moment. Use your voice to get fast answers with Meta AI, capture memories, make calls, send messages, listen to music, livestream and more.”

Cena is no stranger to fights on the virtual platform. His DC portrayal of The Peacemaker is one of the featured special fighters in the newest Mortal Kombat game, Mortal Kombat 1. He’s also no stranger to fighting celebrity non-wrestlers as he notoriously gave Eric Andre a concussion during their battle on an episode of The Eric Andre Show.

Tony Khan on WWE Rivalry: ‘It’s a Constant Fight’

Thomas Lowson
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When AEW launched in 2019, Tony Khan gave WWE its most significant competition in close to two decades as fans flocked to an alternative to ‘Sports Entertainment.’ Both companies have seen major changes in the nearly six years since Khan and others announced AEW, but the 41-year-old’s competitive spirit remains stronger than ever.

Appearing on WFAN Daily, Khan was asked about AEW’s standing in wrestling, and how long it’ll be until they “dethrone” WWE. Khan admitted that his battle with WWE is a constant fight, one that neither side can take a break from.

“I want to be ahead, but it’s a constant fight—it’s 52 weeks a year. You’d appreciate that in this industry; it’s a 52-week-a-year business. Wrestling is the only sport with no offseason.”

When asked if competing with WWE had become an obsession, Khan answered diplomatically, noting that such an obsession isn’t confined to just pro wrestling.

“Fighting is an obsession. I think it’s really a driving obsession, competition, especially in wrestling and sports. I think it’s similar to sports—you have to focus on doing your best.”

Facing Off With WWE

AEW hasn’t backed down from going head-to-head with WWE, as seen in the ‘Wednesday Night Wars’ that saw Dynamite consistently garner more viewers than NXT. In October 2023 though, the tables turned as WWE NXT comfortably beat Dynamite when AEW’s flagship show aired on a Tuesday. Both shows featured stacked cards, proving that there’s still plenty of competitiveness between the two sides.

Though not an in-ring talent, Khan isn’t afraid to trash-talk, even referring to WWE as the Harvey Weinstein of pro wrestling. In October 2023, Khan labeled Triple H and Shawn Michaels “bald a**holes” ahead of NXT’s aforementioned win over Dynamite.

As the competition between the two companies intensifies, the ultimate winners are the fans, who now have two titans of the wrestling world delivering their best week after week. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on AEW and WWE and their never-ending battle to be the best.

Dominik Mysterio’s Phobias Exposed: Shark Cage Triggers His Worst Fears

Bishal Roy
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Rhea Ripley is focused on her quest to reclaim the WWE Women’s World Championship which she never lost in the first place. She has ensured that Dominik Mysterio doesn’t interfere in her title match against Liv Morgan and pulled some strings for her match at next month’s WWE Bad Blood.

On last night’s WWE Raw, ‘The Eradicator’ announced that ‘Dirty Dom’ will be locked in a shark cage during the title match. Ripley has revealed that Dominik Mysterio is scared of multiple things and heights is one of them.

During a WWE Raw Exclusive, Ripley was asked if Mysterio being locked in the cage helps to even the odds. She doesn’t think Dom will be able to interfere in the match but lately, he’s been finding different ways to help Morgan. Ripley then expressed his confidence that she would walk out of WWE Bad Blood as the new women’s champion.

“I don’t think Dom has any impact, but the one thing is, he’s slimy, he’s greasy, he’s dirty. So lately, he’s been finding ways to find ways to cheat for his little blonde girlfriend, which I don’t know where they came from because he’s never had to do that with me. So he’s actually using a little bit of his brain, which is nice to see. But it’s not gonna stop the inevitable.

At the end of the day, at Bad Blood, Mami’s walking out champion. Liv can’t run anymore, she can’t hide. She ain’t gonna have Dom there to help her.”

Scared Little Dom

Ripley also asked to rate how scared Mysterio was on a scale from one to ten. The former WWE Women’s World Champion said that Dom was terrified of multiple things, including heights. She also said that that second-generation wrestler was claustrophobic, and that’s what has made the stipulation hilarious.

“Dom is terrified of a lot of things. Heights is definitely one of them. So I’m gonna give that a ten. But he’s also very, very claustrophobic. Which to me is f****ng hilarious.”

WWE Bad Blood takes place at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, October 5.

Magnum TA Addresses Vince McMahon & Wrestling’s Dark Past

Dominic DeAngelo
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Magnum TA knows Vince McMahon is lightyears away from being a choir boy, but the wrestling legend knows many names that also have an extremely dark past.

Fellow wrestling legend Greg Gagne talked about seeing the trailer for the new “Mr. McMahon” docuseries releasing on Netflix and both men gave their opinions on Vince McMahon’s very checkered past. Magnum, however, knows that Vince’s alleged horrible trangressions aren’t the only names with very bad backstories.

“Frankly, let’s be brutally honest. If we could take back and go back in a time capsule and from the 70s and the 80s and the 90s and go all behind the scenes and capture all the things that took place, there’s a whole lot of people that wouldn’t be revered or looked at the same or measured the same if you could see that.

“He made a lot of enemies along the way, male and female, and when the house starts falling apart and all [the news] you quietly put behind you comes out, it’s horrendous.

“You could line 100 guys up and paint the worst picture imaginable if you could have captured all the indiscretions and things that went on that were more than colorful outside the ring.”

Magnum noted that with McMahon’s notoriety that the former WWE Chairman almost dons a universal scarlet letter for so many wrestlers that got away with horrible actions in the past.

“I almost feel like inadvertently he’s bearing the sins of an entire decadent generation and having it just aired out – because I promise you is wild and horrendous.

I can probably name 20 people right off the top of my head that can fill a dossier to make him look like a choir boy.

On Monday evening, Vince McMahon released a statement downplaying the fairness of the docuseries which releases on September 25. That in turn got a response from Janel Grant’s attorney, Anna Callis.

How Vince McMahon Failed To ‘Catch-And-Kill’ Netflix Documentary

Thomas Lowson
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This week, Mr. McMahon, a six-part docuseries from Netflix, will launch on the streaming juggernaut, giving fans an up-close look at one of wrestling’s most controversial names. With steroids, sexual harassment, and Chris Benoit covered in the trailer alone, no topic will be off limits in this series, despite Vince McMahon’s best efforts.

McMahon reportedly attempted to prevent the release of the docuseries, Dave Meltzer reports, after realizing it would not be as favorable to him as he had hoped. Before WWE’s deal with Netflix was signed in January of this year, McMahon tried to buy the rights to the series to block its release. When Netflix refused, McMahon turned to Ari Emanuel, hoping the Endeavor CEO would be able to win over Netflix brass, but again came up short.

This practice of buying media to prevent its release is known as ‘Catch and Kill’ and isn’t confined to McMahon alone, with celebrities and allies using the practice to bury bad press. In 2015, American Media paid $30,000 to a Trump Tower doorman for the exclusive rights to his story that he’d overheard a conversation about Donald Trump having a child with a woman who is not his wife. Despite paying, American Media, whose CEO David Pecker is a friend of the former president, never published the story.

Despite McMahon’s best efforts, Mr. McMahon will launch on Netflix this week with wrestling fans eager to see how his controversial legacy is covered. McMahon has already begun distancing himself from the project, claiming to have been grossly mischaracterized. Janel Grant’s attorney Ann Callis has also issued a statement, calling McMahon’s conduct abhorrent and criminal.

Jey Uso Joins Exclusive Club with Historic WWE IC Title Win

Michael Reichlin
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On Monday night, Jey Uso etched his name in WWE history by winning the Intercontinental Championship. The thrilling result was the culmination of a long campaign to establish himself as a top singles competitor. He’s cemented his legacy not just as a decorated tag wrestler who achieved success independently, but as part of an exclusive club of father-son duos to hold the Intercontinental title.

Jey’s victory marks a historic moment in WWE, as he becomes only the second man in the company’s history to win the Intercontinental Championship after his father, Rikishi, held the title. This rare distinction places Jey Uso and Rikishi alongside another iconic father-son duo, the late Curt Hennig (known as Mr. Perfect) and his son, Curtis Axel, as the only two pairs to share this unique achievement.

A Rare and Exclusive Club

WWE Intercontinental Championship designs

Before Jey Uso and Rikishi, the only other father-son pair to achieve this feat were Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig and his son, Curtis Axel (Joseph Hennig). Perfect held the IC title twice, first winning it on May 19, 1990, after defeating Tito Santana in a tournament final. His second reign later that year solidified him as being synonymous with the title to this day.

Mr. Pefect’s son Curtis Axel won the Intercontinental Championship in 2013, on WWE’s Payback pay-per-view. His victory came on the same night as Father’s Day, a symbolic tribute to his late father, Mr. Perfect, making the moment even more special for wrestling fans who appreciated their family’s contribution to the business.

We’ve seen many father-son combinations rise to prominence—most recently Rey and Dominik Mysterio, who became the first father-son pair to win the tag team titles. However, only Curtis Axel and Jey Uso can say they’ve held the prestigious Intercontinental Championship just like their fathers.

As Jey Uso carves out his own path, the bond between generations of superstars continues to be a rewarding aspect of of wrestling for longtime fans.

Rikishi Celebrates Son Jey Uso’s Title Win on WWE Raw

Bishal Roy
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WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi recently shared his thoughts on his son finally winning his first singles title since joining WWE fourteen years ago.

On last night’s edition of WWE Raw, Jey Uso dethroned Bron Breakker to capture the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Jey’s father Rikishi, who has been vocal about Jey’s booking, going so far as to say he should consider working elsewhere if WWE doesn’t pay him and book him fairly. The big man was in a celebratory mood Monday night when his son Jey captured his first singles gold in WWE.

Jey has been on a roll since he started competing as a singles wrestler in 2020. His initial run commenced when his twin Jimmy Uso was sidelined with a knee injury. However, it was short-lived. His proper singles run started last year when he parted ways with The Bloodline.

Jey competed in several high-profile matches including Money in the Bank ladder match and the Royal Rumble. At this year’s WrestleMania 40, he also went up against his twin brother Jimmy Uso. Despite competing in title matches, a singles title had eluded him.

But he finally has gold around his waist. Many believe that the title win was long time coming and even Uso was overwhelmed with the ovation after Raw went off the air. ‘Main Event’ Jey Uso had earned the title opportunity after winning the WWE Intercontinental Championship Number One Contender’s Tournament. During the course, he defeated the likes of Pete Dunne, Ilja Dragunov, and Braun Strowman.

Uso’s win put an end to Bron Breakker’s 51-day reign that began at SummerSlam with a victory over Sami Zayn. Breakker recently retained the title against Zayn on the August 12 edition of WWE Raw in two-out-of-three falls match.

The Miz Faces Crossroads in WWE After Interrupted Match On Raw

Bishal Roy
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Veteran wrestler The Miz is confused about his future. On this week’s Raw, ‘The A-Lister’ was eyeing to end his losing streak. His tag-team partner R-Truth has been on the shelf since Bronson Reed’s attack and he wanted to settle the score with the powerhouse. He was set to face Reed. However, the match never started. Braun Strowman attacked Reed before the bell rang and The Miz was visibly frustrated.

Speaking on WWE Raw Talk, The Miz further expressed his frustration for being unable to compete on the show due to Strowman and Reed’s bad blood. He said that the crowd seemed happy with how things turned out but that he doesn’t know what to do after giving his everything to WWE. He said:

“The crowd was on their feet before my match. Didn’t get the opportunity to take on Bronson Reed. Crowd got what they wanted, right? I don’t know what to do. I’ve done everything there is to do in WWE. I don’t know what to do.”

After weeks of brawling, Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman are scheduled to collide in a Last Monster Standing match at next week’s Raw. Meanwhile, Karrion Kross has continued to play mind games with The Miz. Even on last night’s show, when the former WWE Champion was warming up for his match backstage, Kross pointed out how ‘The A-Lister’ doesn’t get respect backstage.

There is a possibility that The Miz could turn heel to change things up. The eight-time WWE Intercontinental Champion has portrayed a villainous role during the majority of his career, something he is more comfortable with. It is to be seen how things pan out for him in the coming weeks.

WWE Shark Cage: Is it the worst gimmick match ever?

Jake Skudder
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The WWE has a long history of innovative and exciting gimmick matches, but not all of them have been successful. Among the various stipulations introduced over the years, the Shark Cage match stands out as one of the most controversial and potentially worst gimmick matches in WWE history.

The Concept of the Shark Cage Match

The Shark Cage match typically involves suspending a cage above the ring, with a manager or other interfering party locked inside. While this concept can add an interesting dynamic to a match, its execution has often left much to be desired.

Historical Context

Origins and Early Uses

The Shark Cage gimmick isn’t new to professional wrestling. In fact, its roots can be traced back to the 1970s, when Don Kent and Jay Strongbow participated in a match inside a shark cage in Big Time Wrestling. 

This early iteration was particularly problematic, as the cage was barely large enough to contain both wrestlers, severely limiting their ability to perform.

WWE’s Adoption

WWE has used the Shark Cage concept sparingly, often as a way to prevent outside interference in high-stakes matches. However, its effectiveness and entertainment value have been questioned by fans and critics alike.

Criticisms of the Shark Cage Match

Lack of Crowd Engagement

Unlike other gimmick matches that allow for creative spots and audience interaction, the Shark Cage often feels disconnected from the crowd. The suspended cage can obstruct views and limit the wrestlers’ ability to engage with fans.

Overcomplication of Simple Concepts

Many argue that the Shark Cage unnecessarily complicates straightforward wrestling narratives. Instead of enhancing the story, it can detract from the in-ring action and feel gimmicky for the sake of being gimmicky.

Comparison to Other Gimmick Matches

When compared to iconic gimmick matches like Hell in a Cell, Royal Rumble, or even the more controversial/horrendously bad Kennel from Hell, the Shark Cage match often falls short in terms of excitement and memorability. 

While these other matches have produced classic moments in WWE history (even if they were bad), the Shark Cage has yet to deliver a truly standout performance.

There’s a chance that Dominik Mysterio being suspended in a shark cage during the Bad Blood match between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan COULD be compelling, but its definitely one if, if not the worst, concepts that WWE has tried to use in recent times.

Fan on Reddit Makes Nightmare Discovery About WWE ECW DVD

Jake Skudder
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In a recent Reddit post that has got a ton of traction and upvotes over the last few hours, a user shared a shocking discovery involving a WWE ECW DVD from the One Night Stand 2005 pay-per-view event.

The fan had come across what appeared to be a signed copy of the DVD and eagerly sought to identify the autograph. However, the answer turned out to be much more unsettling than expected.

A Rare Find: WWE ECW One Night Stand 2005 DVD Signed

One Night Stand 2005 was a historic event for wrestling fans, marking a reunion of ECW talent under the WWE banner. The fan who posted the story had acquired a DVD copy of the pay-per-view from their uncle and noticed a signature on the cover.

Hoping to discover which wrestling superstar had signed it, the Reddit user posted a photo in the wrestling subreddit asking for help.

My uncle gave me the ECW One Night Stand DVD – Can someone identify the signature?
byu/illrathergofirst inSquaredCircle

The Unexpected Revelation

Redditors quickly chimed in with potential names, but one response stood out: the signature appeared to match none other than Chris Benoit.

For many fans, this realization was a chilling moment. Chris Benoit, a former WWE superstar, of course became infamous in June 2007 after committing a tragic murder-suicide involving his wife and son.

The Timing and Impact

If the signature on the One Night Stand 2005 DVD does indeed belong to Benoit, it would have been signed within two years of the tragic events in 2007, with the DVD coming out in North America in around October 2005.

The unsettling nature of this find is compounded by the fact that Benoit participated in that very event against his longtime friend Eddie Guerrero, making it a haunting connection for wrestling fans and collectors alike.

Fan Reactions

Reactions to the post were mixed. Some found the discovery eerie and tragic, while others marveled at the DVD’s historical value despite its unfortunate association.

What’s Next for Bron Breakker?

Jake Skudder
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In a pretty shocking turn of events on Monday Night RAW, Bron Breakker’s reign as Intercontinental Champion came to an abrupt end as Jey Uso captured his first singles title in WWE. 

This unexpected outcome has left fans wondering about Breakker’s future and what lies ahead for the young superstar.

The Match That Changed Everything

The highly anticipated match between Breakker and Uso lived up to expectations, delivering an epic encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats. 

Despite a valiant effort from Breakker, including a near-fall that had many believing he would retain after winning the belt so recently, Uso ultimately emerged victorious. 

The crowd erupted as Jey secured the pin, marking a significant milestone in his career and ending Breakker’s promising title run.

Analyzing Breakker’s Title Loss

A Stepping Stone to Greater Heights

At just 26 years old, Bron Breakker has already made a significant impact in WWE. While losing the Intercontinental Championship is undoubtedly a setback, it is probably a strategic move to propel him towards even greater opportunities. 

This loss could be the catalyst for Breakker’s ascension to the World Heavyweight Championship picture, allowing him to showcase his skills at an even bigger level.

Building Character Through Adversity

Facing defeat is an essential part of any wrestler’s journey, and Breakker’s loss to Uso provides a valuable opportunity for character development. How he responds to this setback will be crucial in shaping his persona and storyline moving forward.

What’s Next for Bron Breakker?

Potential Feuds and Storylines

With the Intercontinental Championship no longer around his waist, Breakker is free to explore new rivalries and storylines. WWE creative has numerous options to consider:

  • A rematch clause against Jey Uso
  • A feud with another up-and-coming star to establish dominance
  • A surprising alliance or heel turn to shake things up

Best WWE Intercontinental Champions Ever: Could Jey Uso make the list?

Jake Skudder
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The WWE Intercontinental Championship has a rich history spanning over four decades, with numerous legendary wrestlers holding the prestigious title.

As Jey Uso begins his reign as the current champion after beating Bron Breakker on RAW, let’s explore some of the greatest Intercontinental Champions of all time and consider whether Uso has the potential to join their ranks.

Legendary Reigns

The Honky Tonk Man’s Record-Breaking Run

For 35 years, The Honky Tonk Man held the record for the longest single reign as Intercontinental Champion, lasting an impressive 454 days. His dastardly tactics and ability to retain the title through various means made him one of the most memorable champions in WWE history.

Randy Savage’s Workhorse Era

“Macho Man” Randy Savage’s 413-day reign brought immense prestige to the Intercontinental Championship. 

His stellar matches, including the classic bout against Ricky Steamboat at WrestleMania 3, solidified the title’s importance and his place among the greatest champions.

Chris Jericho’s Multiple Reigns

Chris Jericho holds the record for the most Intercontinental Championship reigns with nine. 

His consistent excellence and ability to reinvent himself with each title run make him a strong contender for the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time.

Modern Era Standouts

The Miz’s Resurgence

The Miz has held the Intercontinental Championship eight times, second only to Jericho. His work in elevating the title’s prestige, particularly during his feuds with Dolph Ziggler, has earned him a place among the best champions in recent years.

Gunther’s Record-Breaking Reign

In September 2023, Gunther surpassed The Honky Tonk Man’s long-standing record, holding the title for over 479 days. His impressive in-ring performances and dominant reign have quickly established him as one of the greatest Intercontinental Champions in WWE history.

Could Jey Uso Join the Ranks?

As the new Intercontinental Champion, Jey Uso has the opportunity to create his own legacy. While it’s too early to predict the impact of his reign, Uso’s popularity, in-ring skills, and family pedigree give him the potential to become a memorable champion.

To join the ranks of the all-time greats, Uso will need to:

  • Have a lengthy and impactful reign
  • Elevate the prestige of the championship
  • Deliver memorable matches and feuds

Only time will tell if Uso can rise to the challenge and etch his name alongside the legendary Intercontinental Champions of the past.

Kevin Owens WWE Contract: Rumored expiry, dates and more

Jake Skudder
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As one of the company’s most versatile performers, Kevin Owens and his contract status has become a hot topic in the wrestling world. Here, we delve into the latest updates on Kevin Owens’ WWE contract, including rumored expiry dates, potential negotiations, and what the future may hold for the former Universal Champion.

Kevin Owens Current Contract Status

Kevin Owens’ current WWE contract is set to expire in early 2025. This information was confirmed by Owens himself in May 2024 during an interview with Metro UK. The former Universal Champion signed a three-year deal with WWE in 2021, which explains the upcoming expiration date.

No Changes Yet

As of September 2024, there have been no significant changes to Owens’ contract status. In a recent interview with Rick Ucchino of The Takedown on SI, Owens stated that the only difference is that his contract now has less time remaining. 

This update suggests that, as of now, no new deal has been signed between Owens and WWE.

Rumored Negotiations

While no official announcement has been made, recent reports indicate that WWE has begun taking steps to secure Owens’ future with the company.

WWE’s Approach

According to Fightful, WWE has approached Kevin Owens regarding a new contract. This move aligns with reports that the company is making a concerted effort to reach out to talents well in advance of their contract expirations. The proactive approach demonstrates WWE’s desire to retain top talent like Owens.

AEW Interest

The wrestling landscape has changed significantly since Owens last signed with WWE, and other promotions are keeping a close eye on his contract situation. Notably, AEW is expected to make a substantial offer to Owens if he becomes available in free agency. The potential interest from AEW adds an intriguing element to Owens’ contract negotiations in the next few weeks/months.

Bayley WWE Contract: Rumored expiry, dates and more

Jake Skudder
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Bayley, one of WWE’s most prominent female superstars, has been a cornerstone of the women’s division for years. As with any top talent, her contract status is of great interest to fans and industry insiders alike.

Here, we’ll delve into the details of Bayley’s WWE contract, including rumored expiry dates, recent developments, and what it means for her future in professional wrestling.

Recent Contract Developments

New Multi-Year Deal Signed

According to reports late last year, Bayley did indeed sign a new multi-year contract with WWE. PWInsider and Fightful Select both reported in late 2023 that Bayley had come to terms on a new deal with the company.

This news put to rest any speculation about her immediate future and solidified her position as a key player in WWE’s women’s division for years to come.

Length of New Contract

While the exact length of Bayley’s new contract has not been publicly disclosed, it is described as a “multi-year” deal.

In WWE, such contracts typically range from three to five years, suggesting that Bayley could be locked in with the company until at least 2026 or 2027.

Previous Contract Details

Rumored Expiration Date

Prior to signing her new deal, there was speculation about when Bayley’s previous contract was set to expire. Some reports suggested that her contract was due to end in 2024, potentially around June or July.

However, with the signing of her new multi-year deal in late 2023, these earlier expiration dates are no longer relevant.

Contract Extensions and Time Added

It’s worth noting that WWE often adds time to contracts due to injuries or other periods of inactivity. Bayley suffered a torn ACL in July 2021, which kept her out of action for nearly a year.

It’s possible that this injury time was added to her previous contract, potentially extending it beyond the initially rumored 2024 expiration date.

Alexa Bliss Return: Lilly Doll on WWE RAW sparks fervent speculation from fans

Jake Skudder
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WWE fans are abuzz with excitement as recent events on Monday Night RAW have ignited speculation about Alexa Bliss’s imminent return to the ring.

The appearance of her iconic Lilly doll on the September 23, 2024 episode of RAW has sent fans into a frenzy of anticipation.

The Significance of Lilly’s Appearance

Alexa Bliss, who has been absent from WWE programming since January 2023 due to her pregnancy, has been dropping hints about her comeback. 

The sudden appearance of the Lilly doll on RAW is seen as a strong indicator that Bliss’s return is not just imminent but potentially explosive.

https://twitter.com/KirbyHotTakes/status/1838380850464817584/photo/1

A Dark Return?

Fans are speculating whether Bliss will resurrect her darker persona upon her return. The presence of Lilly, a symbol of Bliss’s more sinister character arc, suggests that she might be embracing her enigmatic side once again. 

This potential direction aligns with Bliss’s previously expressed desire to explore a darker and deeper character development.

The Evolution of Alexa Bliss

Alexa Bliss’s character has undergone significant transformations throughout her WWE career.

From her early days as a bubbly personality in NXT to her villainous turn alongside Blake and Murphy, and later her eerie association with Bray Wyatt, Bliss has consistently reinvented herself.

The Fiend Connection

Her partnership with Bray Wyatt and subsequent adoption of a supernatural persona marked a turning point in Bliss’s career.

The destruction of Lilly by Charlotte Flair at WWE Extreme Rules 2021 led to Bliss’s temporary absence and a shift in her character upon return.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The WWE Universe is divided in its expectations. Some fans are eager to see the return of the darker Alexa Bliss, complete with an evolved version of Lilly.

Others are curious to see how her character might blend elements of her past personas with her real-life experiences.

Ethan Page – NXT Title Reign Proves AEW Exit Was the Right Move

Thomas Lowson
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When Ethan Page parted ways with AEW in May of this year, it didn’t take long for the Canadian to find his way to WWE, debuting in NXT that same month. Just 40 days after his arrival, Page captured the NXT Championship, setting a record for the fastest debuting Superstar to win a world title.

After a three-year run in AEW that saw him never win gold, Page joins Cody Rhodes & GUNTHER as a flagbearer for WWE today. On the Insight podcast, Page described what his reign has meant to him, using a single word: “validating.”

“Validating? I think that’s the perfect word, validating. Imagine your whole life you have this vision of what your potential could be, and no one around you sees the same vision as you. Then magically, the greatest wrestler of all time just has the same vision as you and says, ‘I’ll let you do that.’ And here I am, doing it. Yeah, the boyhood dream.”

Reflecting on his All-Elite tenure, Page admitted it was time to move on and that his NXT success so far proves he made the right decision.

“It was time. Yeah, it was time. And I wasn’t getting what I magically got here, which was the opportunity to show what I bring to the table.”

What’s to Come?

Page’s rapid rise to the top of NXT will see him defend the NXT Championship against Trick Williams next week during WWE NXT’s premiere on The CW Network. Whether Page’s reign continues or ends abruptly, the All-Ego star is confident this kind of opportunity wouldn’t have happened in AEW. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest updates on Ethan Page and WWE NXT’s move to The CW.

Austin Theory WWE Contract: Rumored expiry, dates and more

Jake Skudder
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0

Austin Theory has quickly become one of WWE’s fastest-rising young stars since debuting on the main roster in 2020. As his profile continues to grow, many fans are curious about the details of Theory’s WWE contract, including its rumored expiration date and other key information.

Here, we examine what is currently known about Austin Theory’s WWE deal and contract status.

Austin Theory’s WWE Career So Far

NXT Beginnings

Austin Theory first signed with WWE in August 2019, joining the NXT brand. He made his NXT television debut in December 2019 and quickly became a featured performer on the then-black-and-gold brand.

Main Roster Call-Up

In April 2020, Theory was called up to the main roster as part of the RAW brand. He aligned himself with Seth Rollins and became involved in high-profile storylines right away.

Rise to Prominence

Over the past few years, Theory has steadily risen up the card in WWE. Some of his major accomplishments so far include:

  • Winning the United States Championship
  • Capturing the Money in the Bank briefcase in 2022
  • Feuding with top stars like John Cena and Seth Rollins
  • Becoming one of the youngest WWE champions ever at age 25

Rumored Details of Austin Theory’s WWE Contract

While WWE does not publicly disclose the specifics of talent contracts, some details about Theory’s deal have been reported by other wrestling news outlets.

It’s important to note that this information is based on rumors and reports, not officially confirmed facts.

Rumored Contract Length

According to reports, Austin Theory likely signed a standard 3-5 year contract when he first joined WWE in 2019. This would put his original contract expiration sometime between 2022-2024.

However, given Theory’s rapid push and success on the main roster, it’s very possible WWE has already signed him to a contract extension or new long-term deal. The company typically tries to lock up rising stars to longer contracts.

Estimated Salary

While Theory’s exact salary is not public knowledge, estimates based on comparable WWE talent contracts suggest he is likely earning between $250,000 – $500,000 per year as base pay.

This does not include bonuses, merchandise royalties, and other potential income sources. As Theory continues to be featured more prominently, his salary will likely increase substantially with future contract negotiations.

Rumored Expiration Date

IF Theory did sign a standard 3-year deal in 2019, his original contract may have been set to expire in late 2022. However, there have been no credible reports of Theory’s contract actually expiring or him becoming a free agent anytime soon.

The most likely scenario is that WWE has already extended Theory’s contract or signed him to a new multi-year deal, potentially running through 2025 or beyond. The company clearly views him as a major star for the future. We will update this page as and when details of his contract status become more readily available.

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