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UFC’s Oban Elliot Teases Bash In Berlin Role, CM Punk Walkout Entrance

Thomas Lowson
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Welsh fighter Oban Elliott, who competes in the UFC, has teased appearing at WWE’s first-ever PLE in Germany ‘Bash In Berlin.’ Appearing at the UFC 304 post-show press conference in London, Elliot was asked about a recent visit to WWE. The fighter was coy and said that he has some “Business in Berlin under the TKO banner.”

When another reporter asked Elliott about potentially fighting at UFC’s November 2024 in Madison Square Garden, the conversation once again turned to WWE. The fighter said he’d love to walk out to either Hulk Hogan or The Rock’s music, and possibly have CM Punk walk out with him inside WWE’s old stomping ground.

WWE Bash In Berlin

The first-ever PLE in Germany, Bash in Berlin will take place on August 31, from the Uber Arena. The previous night will see a taping of WWE SmackDown from the same venue. At this time, no matches have been confirmed for the show. The show is the latest in a trend of WWE PLE’s in Europe and will follow Clash at the Castle events in Wales, and Glasgow, Money in the Bank 2023 in London, and WWE Backlash: France in Lyon.

TKO Group Holdings

Whether Elliott appears at Bash in Berlin or not, the relationship between WWE and UFC has been growing ever since TKO Group Holdings launched in September 2023. The two companies have merged their live events teams, a decision that has led to some layoffs in WWE. Earlier this year, WWE and UFC held its first weekend events with back-to-back shows in the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

WWE Superstars can often be spotted at UFC events in another example of cross-promotion branding. WWE NXT Battleground took place at the UFC Apex in Nevada, though there were some criticisms of the venue as an area to host wrestling shows. WWE’s Rezar threw out the challenge to fight some UFC heavyweights so fans may be seeing the former Tag Team Champion in the Octagon soon enough. 

Carmelo Hayes Names Eddie Guerrero As Dream SummerSlam Opponent

Anutosh Bajpai
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Carmelo Hayes says he would have loved to get in the ring with Eddie Guerrero and learn from the legend if he was still around.

IGN published a new video asking a number of WWE superstars who would be their dream SummerSlam opponent ahead of the WWE PLE on August 4.

One of the names participating in the video was none other than Carmelo Hayes. When asked about his dream opponent, the former NXT champion said that Eddie would have loved to work with the younger generation if he was still around:

“I think Eddie Guerrero man. He’s one of those guys like I truly believe if he was still around, he’d be helping coach the younger generation.”

https://youtu.be/IJyjZsmiWa0

So Much Knowledge: Carmelo Hayes

The SmackDown star mentioned how anyone who worked with Eddie Guerrero has great memories of the late star and he would have liked to experience that firsthand:

“I just think he had so much knowledge to give and I love talking to guys that got work with Eddie. Finding out like ‘Oh what he was like? What did you learn from Eddie?’ and they’ll all tell you something that’s really good, really knowledgeable. That’s a guy that I’d love to get in the ring with for sure.”

Eddie Guerrero unfortunately passed away back in 2005 at the age of 38. His memory is kept alive by fans and the many talents who chose to pursue a career in wrestling because of the Latino Heat.

Carmelo Hayes was involved in the Money In The Bank ladder match at the namesake PPV earlier this month. So far, he has not been booked for any match at the SummerSlam event.

Swerve Strickland Says Bryan Danielson Is ‘The Greatest Of All time’

Anutosh Bajpai
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Swerve Strickland knows Bryan Danielson is one of the best to ever do it, but he claims that despite his long career, The American Dragon has never met anyone like him.

The two AEW stars are set to square off at the biggest possible stage in the upcoming All In event from Wembley Stadium in London on August 25. Bryan has earned the right to challenge for Swerve’s World Title after winning the Owen hart Cup Tournament.

The AEW World Champion spoke about the upcoming bout in a new interview with Sports Illustrated. He first acknowledged the illustrious career of his opponent, saying that Bryan is a first-ballot Hall of Famer:

“Bryan’s not just experienced, he’s the greatest of all time. That’s who I’m going up against–a first ballot Hall of Famer. I’ve never faced anyone like him. But he’s never faced anyone like me.”

Special Breed Of Danger

swerve strickland hangman page

Though despite this being the toughest challenge of his reign yet, Swerve Strickland is ready to give it all. According to him, he’s a special breed of danger that the former WWE star has never encountered before:

“Bryan told me I’m a special breed of talent, I’m also a special breed of danger. I know we wrestled before, but he’s never faced me like this. Bryan is facing me after my Texas Deathmatch against Hangman Page. He’s facing me after I beat Will Ospreay–and Christian Cage and Samoa Joe. I’m a different beast. I can’t wait for him to see it.”

Another thing that makes the upcoming match interesting is the AEW status of Bryan Danielson. The wrestling veteran has confirmed that his last full-time contract with the company expires on August 1.

While the former WWE star is not expected to leave Tony Khan’s promotion anytime soon, there is much speculation on what his next deal will look like.

With his health being a concern as well, it’s possible that the 43-year-old may take a long break from wrestling after the Wembley event.

MVP Appears at Bloodsport XI, Gives Update On WWE Future

Thomas Lowson
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MVP surprised fans with his appearance at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XI where he spoke about his plans for WWE and outside the company. At the show, MVP, a former U.S. Champion made a surprise appearance following Barnett’s fight with Bad Dude Tito.

MVP spoke of his friendship with Barnett and how his start in submission wrestling training began with Josh eleven years ago. MVP then confirmed that the contract “with the company who I won’t mention” [WWE] is about to expire and shared that “I’m not going back.”

Though his WWE career is ending, MVP isn’t ready to retire and challenged Barnett to a fight at a future Bloodsport event. Barnett was in favor of the idea and shared that Bloodsport is “the land where the Hurt Business cashes the most checks.”

WWE & Bloodsport

MVP wasn’t the only WWE name at Bloodsport XI. Both Creed Brothers were victorious in their Bloodsport debuts with Brutus and Julius defeating Tom Lawlor and Matt Makowski respectively. Charlie Dempsey came up short against Royce Isaacs while Shayna Baszelr defeated Miyu Yamashita in the show’s main event.

Now, fans can expect MVP at a future event against Barnett, and his comment about the Hurt Business shouldn’t be ignored. In addition to MVP, it’s been reported that Bobby Lashley’s WWE deal is set to expire soon. WWE is reportedly under the belief that both men are gone with speculation regarding a potential move to AEW.

Cody Rhodes: ‘Dominik Mysterio Is a Future World Champion’

Thomas Lowson
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Championship gold is in the future for Dominik Mysterio, at least according to the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. On social media, Rhodes shared a photo of himself alongside Mysterio and World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest. In the caption, Rhodes made reference to himself and Priest both being world title holders and branded Dominik a future champion.

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Mysterio is already a former SmackDown Tag Team Champion with his father Rey. The pair won the titles in 2021 in a historic victory that made them the first father-son duo to win tag team gold in WWE. The pair would hold the titles until July 2021 when they lost them to The Usos, kicking off the pair’s record-breaking lengthy reign with the gold.

Mysterio is also a former two-time NXT North American Champion, having won the gold in 2023. Mysterio’s first victory marked the end of Wes Lee’s record-breaking run with the gold, while his second saw him dethrone future NXT Champion Trick Williams. It was during this run that Dominik again made history by headlining RAW, SmackDown and WWE NXT in the same week.

Since arriving in WWE, Dominik has consistently proven himself as an in-ring performer and as one of the more charismatic members of the roster. Will ‘Dirty Dom’ hold title gold again, perhaps joining his ‘deadbeat dad’ as a WWE World Champion? Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on the career of Dominik Mysterio.

Sammy Guevara Returns With a New Look At AEW ROH Tapings

Michael Reichlin
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Sammy Guevara made a surprise return to pro wrestling at Sunday’s Ring of Honor tapings. The Spanish God did a run-in to save Dustin Rhodes from the Dark Order, marking his first appearance in the past five months.

Guevara’s absence was due to a suspension following an in-ring incident with Jeff Hardy during a match on February 16th, where Hardy suffered a broken nose and concussion. Guevara continued the match despite Hardy’s condition, violating concussion protocol.

The suspension was lifted earlier this month. Now that he’s back in Ring of Honor, Sammy Guevara is expected to be factored into AEW’s creative plans soon.

Bret Hart Honors Leo Burke, Credits Him For Famous WWE Finish

Dominic DeAngelo
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Bret Hart had a lot of respect for the late Leo Burke, calling him one of the top five wrestlers he had ever stepped in the ring with.

Burke unfortunately passed away earlier this week but left a great legacy in a squared circle, most notably up in Canada. Bret Hart mentioned in his Hitman biography that he learned a great deal from Burke in the ring and Hart wrote a heartwarming trible to his friend on social media.

RELATED: Canadian Wrestling Legend Leo Burke Passes Away At 76

“Words cannot describe how saddened I was to hear of the recent passing of Leo Cormier, better known to the wrestling world as Leo Burke. I consider him to be one of the top 5 workers I ever stepped in the ring with. I learned the basics of pro wrestling from my two teachers Mr. Hito and Mr. Sakurada, but the most valuable lessons I ever learned came from Leo. He taught me pacing and storytelling. There was no one better at building a match and, as a young wrestler working with him, he opened up his vault of finishes and I soaked up all I could.”

Hart mentioned that Burke was the originator of the fantastic finish between him and Davey Boy Smith back in 1992.

“The great finish at Wembley Stadium SummerSlam 1992 with The British Bulldog was Leo Burke’s. We did the same finish in Edmonton back in my old Stampede days and I never forgot it. He taught me so much about ring psychology, the ability to visualize scenes in your mind and then do them. When people compliment me on my style and work rate, they should be thanking Leo Burke. He was my greatest teacher. On top of being a consummate professional in and out of the ring, he was a kind and happy man who loved what he did. Leo Burke was a true friend and one of the most incredible wrestlers there ever was and I’ll miss him dearly. Rest in peace, Leo.”

Burke not only influenced Bret but fellow WWE Hall Of Famer Mark Henry learned greatly from Leo. Following his passing Henry also took to X to pay tribute to his former teacher.

We at SEScoops would like to send our prayers thoughts and condolences to Leo Burke’s family and friends at this time.

RELATED: Bret Hart Shares Touching Tribute To Owen Hart On His Birthday

Reunited: Looking Back On Dominik-Rhea Love Story

Thomas Lowson
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WWE’s resident Bonnie & Clyde are back together as Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio reunited during the July 22, edition of RAW. Despite months of Liv Morgan trying to woo ‘Dirty Dom’, Mysterio made clear this week that Morgan means nothing to him, leaving the reigning Women’s World Champion in tears. Ripley on the other hand, was delighted by this revelation and proved all was forgiven with a lick of Mysterio’s face.

With that in mind, here are some of the defining moments of the pair’s relationship.

Love at First Sight?

Ripley and Dominik’s first interactions did not suggest that the pair would become a power couple in WWE. In 2022, Ripley, fresh off a heel turn and a member of the Judgment Day, began targeting Dominik during the faction’s feud with Rey Mysterio and Edge. These segments routinely saw Ripley get the upper hand on Dominik, often using her impressive strength to literally manhandle the young babyface.

Coupling in Cardiff

At WWE Clash At The Castle 2022, Rey Mysterio teamed with Edge to defeat Finn Balor and Damian Priest. The real shock came after the match though, as Dominik low-blowed Edge and betrayed his father, aligning with the Judgment Day in the process.

Mami Is Born

As part of the Judgment Day, Dominik would mirror much of Eddie Guerrero’s mannerisms and make reference to Eddie’s feud with Rey that saw Guerrero declare ‘I’m Your Papi.’ To compliment the character, Ripley was dubbed ‘Mami’ and her ‘I’m Your Mami’ shirt would add another twisted layer to the couple’s relationship.

Love Behind Bars

On Thanksgiving 2022, Dominik and Rhea crashed the Mysterio’s family meal and sought to repeat this nefarious act the following month at Christmas. This time, however, the plan would backfire as Dominik would be arrested. This resulted in Mysterio becoming a (self-professed) hardened criminal and Rhea stuck by her ex-con boyfriend.

A Championship Couple

By July 2023, Ripley had been dominating as the WWE Women’s World Champion for months and it was time for Mysterio to also hold a title. On the July 18, edition of WWE NXT, Ripley, alongside Finn Balor and Damian Priest, aided Mysterio in winning the NXT North American Title from Wes Lee. This ended Lee’s record-setting 269-day reign and would mark Mysterio’s first singles title in WWE.

Living with Liv

When Rhea Ripley was injured in April 2024, an act that ended Rhea’s time as Women’s World Champion, Liv Morgan wasted little time in trying to win over ‘Dirty Dom.’ A one-woman kind of man (admittedly if you ignore his real-life marriage,) Mysterio refused to be won over as we saw on the latest Monday Night RAW.

What’s to Come?

With all forgiven between herself and Dominik, Rhea Ripley can now focus on WWE SummerSlam 2024 where she will challenge Liv Morgan for the WWE Women’s World Championship. After leaving RAW in tears, Morgan’s days with the gold may be numbered now that Dominik has made his allegiances crystal clear.

CM Punk Proposes Unique Idea for John Cena’s 2025 WWE Retirement Tour

Michael Reichlin
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CM Punk has expressed interest in joining John Cena’s WWE retirement tour next year but isn’t looking to reignite their storied rivalry.

Pro wrestling had a major presence at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 over the weekend, with stars from WWE and AEW participating in various stage panels.

During the ‘Mattel WWE’ panel at Comic-Con, Punk was asked about potential tag team partners. In a lighthearted moment, he jokingly named his dog Larry, who recently got his first merchandise at WWE Shop. Punk then shared a more serious answer:

“If I had to tag up with somebody to beat some people up, it would probably be Larry. Everybody’s asking me because John Cena has announced his retirement, and they obviously want to see us fight each other. I think there’s something to me and him tagging. I think that could be pretty interesting.”

Punk also likened his dynamic with Cena to that of Batman and Superman, highlighting the unique chemistry between the two wrestling icons.

CM Punk was one of John Cena’s greatest rivals, so it’s only fitting that he’s involved in the retirement tour in some capacity. Fans can look forward to seeing how this collaboration unfolds as Cena bids farewell to the WWE ring. The contrast between Cena’s prototypical superhero and Punk’s anti-hero persona created a compelling dynamic that captivated audiences. Their matches were often critically acclaimed, showcasing both men’s in-ring and storytelling abilities. Their rivalry produced several iconic moments, including Punk’s infamous pipebomb promo and their Money in the Bank 2011 match, often hailed as one of the greatest matches of this century.

Punk returns to action this weekend at WWE SummerSlam when he wrestles Drew McInture (with Seth Rollins as guest referee) in his first match since the Royal Rumble in January 2024.

John Cena has already declared that he’ll be at the first episode of WWE Raw when it moves to Netflix in January 2025, and intends to wrestle in the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble later that month.

MJF To Defend AEW American Title in ‘Third-World Country’ UK Next Month

Thomas Lowson
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AEW American Champion MJF will be in for a hostile reaction when he defends the star-spangled strap next month in the United Kingdom. On Twitter, MJF shared that he will defend the title at Revolution Pro Wrestling’s Summer Sizzler event against Michael Oku. The show will take place at York Hall in London, England on August 11.

MJF didn’t hold back in his announcement that was aired at Rev Pro’s Live in Coventry event. Michael Oku has MJF’s “undying hatred” given that Oku has the respect of Will Ospreay. The AEW star added that the UK is a “third-world country” a well as the “worst country in the world.” Channeling the spirit of the Boston Tea Party (an event from December 1773 that MJF claimed he remembers,) the AEW mainstay made clear he would fight the British and did not care about being disrespectful.

MJF introduced the American Championship as a replacement for the AEW International Title he won from Will Ospreay during Dynamite: 250. In addition to being as patriotic as it gets, the title includes a dig at the UK with one side plate reading “Better than Will [Ospreay] and the UK knows it.” After their hour-long war on Dynamite, Ospreay and MJF will face off again at AEW All In: London 2024 next month.

Although MJF isn’t interested in being kind to the UK, the UK has been kind to the reigning AEW American Champion. MJF has competed six times in the UK, according to Profight data, and boasts a respected 4-2 win/loss record. Both of MJF’s last two matches in the UK came at All In: London 2023 and saw him win the ROH World Tag Titles with Adam Cole and retain the AEW World Championship against Cole.

Latest On Meiko Satomura After Announcing 2025 Retirement

Thomas Lowson
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More has come to light about Meiko Satomura after the Japanese wrestling legend and WWE talent shared that she will retire next year. Meiko Satomura The 44-year-old Satomura shared this week that she will hang up her boots in 2025 to mark the 30th anniversary of her in-ring debut. Satomurra’s farewell tour will see her work in the Sendai Girls promotion she founded, in the latest example of WWE collaborating with another promotion.

Latest on Meiko Satomura

Satomura returned to the ring during WWE’s recent tour of Japan, after last competing in WWE NXT in February 2023. Only Satomura and WWE executives know the reasons for her absence, Fightful Select reports. It’s added that NXT talent believe that Satomura is likely focused on completing her WWE contract, with no current plans for her return to NXT TV.

Speculation about a potential WrestleMania match as part of Satomura’s farewell tour was met with skepticism, and there are no plans for her on TV, Fightful adds. NXT personnel were said to be unsurprised by Satomura’s announcement, given her limited involvement with the gold brand for the past year and a half.

Despite not being featured prominently on WWE TV, Satomura has been praised for her coaching by those who worked with her in NXT UK and WWE NXT. There is a regret, however, that her stint with the latter has been sho brief, as the veteran would have plenty to offer those in the gold brand. Fightful reports that Satoumra is concentrating on expanding the Sendai Girls promotion.

Wrestling World Reacts

Although Meiko Satomura’s tenure with WWE post-NXT UK may not have gone as many expected, the veteran continues to be one of the most well-respected women among her peers. On Twitter, PROGRESS Wrestling praised Satomura, who has worked with their promotion in the past.

Bayley, who defended her WWE Women’s Championship against Satomura during the WWE Japan tour, was also grateful to the legend.

Perhaps the most notable reaction to Meiko’s announcement came from AEW’s Emi Sakura, who is eager for a match with the WWE Superstar before she leaves the ring.

Keep tuned to SE Scoops for more on Meiko Satomura as she prepares to say goodbye to the squared circle.

Update On the Health Of WWE Hall of Famer Abdullah The Butcher

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Hall of Famer Abdullah the Butcher is reportedly dealing with health issues that have left the hardcore wrestling legend in hospital. Abdullah has been in hospital for a week in Georgia, PW Insider reports. The wrestling legend has reportedly been dealing with an intestinal issue. He has been promoted for The Gathering in North Carolina, a wrestling convention that will take place in Charlotte from August 1, to August 4. Of course, Abdullah’s status for the show will depend on his health and whether he will be discharged from the hospital in time.

Given his violent nature in the ring, a career that has left his forehead littered with ‘blading’ scars Abdullah has faced several health issues over the years. In June 2014, a court ruled that Abdullah was to blame for Canadian wrestler Devon ‘Hannibal’ Nicholson contracting hepatitis C during a match. Abdullah was ordered to pay $2.3 million in damages. The following year, Abdullah admitted that he was undergoing financial struggles and asked for the help of fans. Abdullah’s final match came in July 2010 at an event for Dragon Gate Pro Wrestling in Hyogo where he teamed with the recently passed Akebono.

Abdullah the Butcher amazed and horrified fans for years in the ring but now the WWE Hall is reportedly under considerable physical strain. We here at SE Scoops would like to wish Abdullah the very best at this time.

Shane Taylor Out With Injury After ROH Death Before Dishonor

Thomas Lowson
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Shane Taylor will be on the sidelines for the foreseeable future after suffering an injury at ROH Death Before Dishonor 2024. The unfortunate news was shared by Tony Schiavone and came after Taylor competed in a Survival of the Fittest match for the ROH TV Championship. The match saw Atlantis retain the title against Taylor, Brian Cage, Lee Johnson, Johnny TV, and Lio Rush.

Despite this injury, Lee’s tag-team partner Brian Cage was still in action during the latest AEW Collision. The Machine teamed with Lee Moriarty, who won the ROH Pure Championship at Death Before Dishonor.

This November will mark a decade since Taylor debuted for Ring of Honor. In December 2022, Taylor returned to the promotion, now under the ownership of Tony Khan. Over his time with the company, he has held the ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Titles (with Kaun and Moses) and the ROH World Television Championship.

We here at SE Scoops would like to wish Taylor a speedy recovery. Keep tuned in to SE Scoops for all the goings on in the world of Ring of Honor.

Rossy Ogawa Says Giulia’s Time In Japan Is Ending Amid WWE Rumors

Thomas Lowson
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Giulia’s time competing in Japan will be coming to an end sooner than later, according to Marigold Wrestling founder Rossy Ogawa. Sitting down with Tokyo Sports, Ogawa addressed rumors and reports that Giulia is expected to join WWE.

“It’s true that Giulia doesn’t have that much time (in Japan). I’m not sure how many matches she has left, but it might be best to think of this as the last time you’ll see her at each venue.”

It was first reported in November 2023 that Giulia was believed to be joining WWE in a huge score for the Stamford-based promotion. Speculation that she’d be joining WWE was galvanized when she departed STARDOM in March and when she appeared at WWE NXT: Stand & Deliver the following month.

It has been reported that WWE’s current plan is for Giulia to debut at an NXT PLE over SummerSlam weekend. That will prove easier said than done, given that no such event is due to take place next weekend. NXT will host two weeks of its Great American Bash event over the next two weeks of TV, in a reported effort to combat being decimated in the ratings by the Olympics. WWE NXT’s next PLE will be No Mercy and take place at the Ball Arena in Denver, CO on September 1.

Giulia & Rossy Ogawa

While Giulia is expected to be on WWE TV sooner than later, it may not mark the end of her work with Rossy Ogawa. The Marigold founder, who also founded STARDOM, hopes for WWE and Marigold to work together in the long term with Giulia appearing a handful of times a year for the latter after her WWE debut. WWE and Marigold have already partnered as IYO SKY competed at the Summer Destiny event earlier this month.

Jeff Hardy: ‘I Don’t Want Solo Hall of Fame Spot, Just To Go In With Matt’

Thomas Lowson
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Jeff Hardy is in no hurry to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame after the company’s previous offer “didn’t feel right at all” to the legend.

In late 2021, Hardy’s actions during a WWE live event led the company to suspect that he was using substances and released him after he refused to go to rehab. A drugs test would later reveal that Hardy had not been under the influence of substances. WWE would try and coax Jeff back in early 2022 (an act that’d keep him from joining) AEW but to no avail.

Part of WWE’s efforts to win Hardy back after his release was the promise of a Hall of Fame induction. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Jeff made clear that going in without his brother Matt (who was with AEW at the time) did not feel right.

“I cried after that phone call. I was just thinking about all the really cool moments I’ve given to the pro-wrestling world. I’m so proud of it, but it didn’t feel right at all. So, I just wanted to wait. If I did do this, I’m definitely doing that with Matt.”

Despite his lofty achievements on his own, include three reigns as a WWE World Champion, Jeff is not interested in a solo induction. In the interview, Hardy made clear that if he is inducted, it’ll be as one-half of the Hardy Boyz, adding “I just want one ring.”

Although Hardy has done more than enough to warrant two inductions, his dedication to his brother Matt trumps any accolade WWE may bestow on the Charismatic Enigma. These days, fans can find Jeff and Matt teaming once more in TNA Wrestling, though Jeff was recently written off TV with an attack by The System.

Related: Jeff Hardy Has “So Much Guilt” & Shame Over Past Mistakes

CM Punk Interested in Teaming With John Cena on Farewell Tour

Thomas Lowson
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CM Punk and John Cena may have been fierce rivals, but the Best in the World is more interested in teaming with the 16-time World Champion soon.

Speaking at a San Diego Comic-Con panel, Punk was asked about who he’d like to team with now that he’s back in WWE. While Punk’s first choice was Larry, his dog who now has official merch, John Cena was his second pick.

“Everybody’s asking me because (John) Cena has announced his retirement that, you know, obviously they wanna see us fight each other. I think there’s something to me and him tagging. I think that can be pretty interesting.”

Cena and Punk feuded in 2011 as part of the acclaimed ‘Summer of Punk’ that included Punk’s scathing Pipebomb on the June 27, 2011, edition of Monday Night RAW. Punk would ‘leave’ WWE as WWE Champion at Money in the Bank that year only to return eight days later and continue his feud with John.

Teaming with Cena was one of the last acts Punk would perform during his first WWE run before walking out of the company in January 2014. The pair last teamed during the December 18, 2013, edition of WWE SmackDown and earned a (DQ) victory over the Shield.

John Cena’s Retirement Tour

Cena shared at Money in the Bank 2024 that 2025 will be his final year wrestling, ending what will be a legendary 23-year career on WWE’s main roster. Already, several names have put themselves forward as potential opponents. Cena’s WrestleMania 27 adversary The Miz has said he’d love to be part of John’s farewell tour, as does ex-WWE Superstar Matt Cardona. Cena has said he does not have (or wish to use) the backstage sway to pick matches for his tour.

Related: 5 Things We Want From John Cena’s WWE Retirement Tour

WWE SmackDown Video Highlights: July 26th 2024

Jake Skudder
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The penultimate episode of WWE SmackDown ahead of SummerSlam had some intriguing moments, which were pre-taped following last week’s episode of the show. The Bloodline managed to secure a big Tag Team Championship match at the PLE and LA Knight managed to get one up on Logan Paul ahead of their US Title match before Santos Escobar got involved, among other highlights.

WWE has now uploaded all of the video highlights for the show to their official YouTube channel, which we have compiled in an easy to view format on one page below.

WWE SmackDown Full Highlights This Week

If you didn’t get the chance to watch the show in full, you can see a Full Recap of WWE SmackDown this week via the video below:

WWE SmackDown Segments This Week

Here are all of the individual Video Highlights that WWE has released this week after SmackDown:

LA Knight addresses the WWE Universe en route to his imminent Santos Escobar match and his SummerSlam title showdown against United States Champion Logan Paul.

LA Knight takes out an interfering Logan Paul before overcoming Santos Escobar en route to the highly anticipated United States Championship Match at SummerSlam.

Seconds after LA Knight thwarts Logan Paul’s interference attempt during his match against Santos Escobar, the United States Champion and The Emperor of Lucha Libre execute a post-match attack on the outspoken Superstar.

Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill turn the tables on a sneak attack by WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn and throw them out of the ring.

Baron Corbin and Apollo Crews take on Angel and Berto and The Street Profits in back-to-back matchups during the first part of the WWE Tag Team Title No. 1 Contenders Gauntlet Match.

Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins overcome Kit Wilson and Elton Prince as well as Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson in a WWE Tag Team Title No. 1 Contenders Gauntlet Match.

The Bloodline vs The Street Profits

Jacob Fatu and Tama Tonga conquer Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins to win the WWE Tag Team Title No. 1 Contenders Gauntlet Match.

With Randy Orton and Kevin Owens taken out of action by The Bloodline, The American Nightmare prepares to battle the self-appointed Tribal Chief without backup at The Biggest Event of the Summer.

Grayson Waller demands an apology from undefeated two-time undisputed boxing champion Terence Crawford and ends up getting his partner Austin Theory knocked out.

Tiffany Stratton and Nia Jax vs Michin and Bayley

Prior to their tag team match against Bayley and Michin, Tiffany Stratton and Nia Jax launch an attack on the partner of the WWE Women’s Champion.

Nia Jax joins Ms. Money in the Bank in a controversial win over Bayley and Michin en route to The Role Model’s WWE Women’s Title Match against The Irresistible Force at SummerSlam.

Watch: Baby Jay Briscoe Makes On Screen Debut In Adorable Video With Mark Briscoe

Anutosh Bajpai
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Step aside Roux, King Maxel, and Liberty, cause a new king of cuteness is in town.

ROH presented the 21st annual Death Before Dishonor PPV last night from the Esports Stadium in Arlington, Texas featuring 7 different title matches.

The main event of the show saw Mark Briscoe defending the ROH World Heavyweight Championship against Roderick Strong. The Kingdom tried to interfere in the bout but Kyle O’Reilly and Tomohiro Ishii helped make the numbers even, and Briscoe came out victorious at the end.

The retaining champion commented on his win in a new backstage video, which was made even special by the on-screen debut of baby Jay Briscoe:

The legacy of Jay Briscoe

Jay Briscoe was one of the longest-tenured talents of ROH. He was part of the company for 19 of its 22 year history.

Along with his brother Mark, Jay helped put the company on the map in many ways and the brothers won the ROH tag team championship a record 13 times during his career.

The wrestling veteran unfortunately passed away in a car crash in January 2023, at the age of 38. The whole wrestling world came together to pay tribute to the deceased star.

Mark Briscoe has continued to honor his brother’s legacy in many ways. He introduced the world to his youngest son Matthew Jamin Pugh in April this year, named after the late Jay Briscoe.

AEW: Ring of Honor?

The struggling ROH brand has found new life under Tony Khan’s leadership since he bought the company in 2022. Death Before Dishonor was another good example of it.

They have been steadily regrowing the interest in the brand by adding names such as Athena, The Von Erichs and Mark Briscoe to the list of talents regularly competing under the Ring of Honor banner.

One thing that has evaded the company still despite best efforts from Khan, however, is a TV deal. Despite featuring ROH talents and championships prominently on AEW TV, Tony has so far failed to convince a TV station to pick up the show.

Though the ROH President floated a very interesting idea for the brand during the post-Death Before Dishonor media scrum last night. He suggested that the show could be brought under the AEW banner to increase its value and finally find a TV partner. You can check out TK’s comments here.

Tony Khan: ‘ROH Would Have A Lot More Value As AEW: Ring of Honor’

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A name change could be in store for Ring of Honor to benefit the brand, according to AEW President Tony Khan. Speaking on the post-Death Before Dishonor 2024 press conference, Khan was asked about the possibility of cohesion between the two entities. Khan said that AEW is “the very top of pro wrestling” and that ROH would benefit from being associated with the All-Elite company.

“I don’t think it’s out of the question to say or sacrilegious to say. I think it would only help grow the ROH brand if I were to license it, sublicense, if it were AEW ROH. I don’t think that’s a crazy thing or sacrilegious or bad. I think it would be good for everybody.”

Later on, Khan discussed the possibility of Ring of Honor being aired on a WBD network channel. Khan reiterated that ROH would “frankly have a lot more value” if a branding change took place.

Tony Khan and Ring of Honor

Khan was among those who launched AEW in 2019 while his acquisition of Ring of Honor was publicly confirmed on the March 2, 2022, edition of AEW Dynamite. Khan’s efforts successfully relaunched Ring of Honor which had gone on hiatus in late 2021 after its Final Battle pay-per-view.

Unlike AEW Dynamite, Rampage, and Collision, Ring of Honor does not have a presence on syndicated television. Instead, it was announced in late 2022 that ROH shows would air on the relaunched Honor Club streaming platform.

While Khan is to credit for allowing ROH to not finish for good in 2021, many feel that his handling of the promotion has been sub-par. Ex-ROH Owner Cary Silkin has said that Khan has not treated the promotion well. Eric Bischoff, never shy of making his views on Khan clear, has said that buying the company was a bad investment and that ROH was “insignificant” in the eyes of most fans.

If people are unhappy with Khan’s handling of ROH so far, the stance that the company would do better by being known as an AEW division may do little to win back favor. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on AEW, Ring of Honor, and potential synergy between the two sides.

The Young Bucks On Jack Perry Chair Shot, AEW Blood & Guts 2024

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The Young Bucks recently sat down with The Takedown on SI to discuss this year’s Blood & Guts match. The fourth-ever bout in the violent double-cage structure saw Team AEW (Swerve Strickland, Darby Allin, Mark Briscoe & The Acclaimed) defeat Team Elite (The Bucks, Kazuchika Okada, Jack Perry, and ‘Hangman’ Adam Page.)

On The Chair Shot To Jack Perry

In one of the most shocking moments of the match, Jack Perry was struck in the head with a steel chair. Though once commonplace in wrestling, shots like these have been phased out given what is known today about long-term effects. In the interview, Nick Jackson said that Perry, like any AEW talent, is aware of the risks involved in being a wrestler.

Nick: “All I know is Jack is fine, and that’s all that matters. We know the risk we’re taking in the ring and it wouldn’t have happened if he wasn’t prepared for it.”

On The Backstage Feedback to the Match

Blood & Guts 4 certainly delivered the violence that fans have come to expect since the bout was introduced in 2021. Matt Jackson was pleased to share that this reception reflects how those felt backstage.

Matt: “I heard a lot of people in the back saying it was the best Blood & Guts ever, so that’s a huge compliment to the men who participated.”

On Facing Mark Briscoe

This year’s Blood & Guts match was hardly the first time that the Young Bucks worked with Mark Briscoe as the tag team’s wars with The Briscoes are well-documented. Matt explained that while Jay is no longer with us, the chemistry of the Bucks and the Briscoes continued to shine in Blood & Guts.

Matt: I was reminded of the amazing chemistry we have. It’s like lightning in a bottle, a type of magic you only have with a very few select opponents.”

Matt was reminded of Jay Briscoe throughout the match and reflected on his passing while sitting in his hotel room after the show.

Matt: “I felt Jay out there with us. I couldn’t stop thinking about him. It was such an overpowering feeling.”

On Coming Up With Ideas

Blood & Guts 4 was always going to be violent and the Bucks, like all involved, paid the toll with their bodies in the name of entertainment. In the interview, Nick explained how the thought process came about for the match.

Nick: “At this point, coming up with the ideas is a lot more fun than executing them. It’s a really intense match.”

On Working with Kazuchika Okada

The match saw the Young Bucks once again team with AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada, who has replaced Kenny Omega in the Elite. Both Matt and Nick are thrilled to have the ‘Rainmaker’ on their side.

Matt: “I couldn’t be prouder to see him trying new things and learning a new style. He’s a movie star with perfect timing, an unbelievable sense of humor, and he just so happens to be the greatest wrestler alive.”

Nick: “He is performing so great and adapting to new matches he’s never been in as well as I’ve seen anyone be able to do it on the fly. It’s been so much fun working with him these last several months. There’s no one better.”

Raj Dhesi Wins Championship In First Match Since WWE Release

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Former WWE World Champion Raj Dhesi once again has title gold around his waist after winning at Black Label Pro’s Old Habits event. Dhesi, who entered free agency earlier this month, defeated Dominic Garrini in the show’s main event to win the title in Dhesi’s first match since his release from WWE. Garrini defended the title in place of his Violence is Forever tag team partner Kevin Ku who has been out of action with an injury.

Dhesi, better known to WWE fans as Jinder Mahal, was among those released in April 2024 though that setback has done little to slow his momentum. Dhesi has since shared his ‘Unhindered’ tour dates, a play on the meme of ‘Don’t Hinder Jinder’ that followed him in WWE. Dhesi has also debuted for GCW and will make his in-ring debut for the promotion next month against Effy.

Much like Matt Cardona four years earlier, Dhesi appears poised to make an impact on the independent scene. Following his release, it was reported that promotions were eager to work with Dhesi, especially given that there is a gap for indie wrestling’s top heel since Cardona is out with an injury.

In WWE, Dhesi worked with top names such as Randy Orton, Roman Reigns, Drew McIntyre, and The Rock. While the independents don’t often quite the same names in terms of star power, Dhesi now has a much wider field of potential opponents to work with.

Fans may have been part of the ‘Don’t Hinder Jinder’ movement, but now the message is ‘Don’t Messi with Dhesi.’ Stay tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on Raj Dhesi’s journey outside the world of WWE.

Meiko Satomura To Retire in April 2025, Will Compete Outside WWE

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WWE Superstar Meiko Satomura will hang up her boots for good in April 2025 in a journey that will see her compete outside the promotion.

In a press conference, Satomura confirmed her retirement plans, which will mark the 30th anniversary of her professional debut. Satomura’s final match will take place at the historic Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.

Despite being a WWE-contracted performer, Satomura said at the press event that she will compete in a number of Sendai Girls matches, starting this September. Sendai Girls, also known as Senjo, is a Joshi puroresu promotion founded in 2005 by Satomura and Kensuke Shinzaki, also known to WWE fans as Hakushi.

Satomura’s career in the ring has seen her work with some of wrestling’s biggest promotions including New Japan Pro Wrestling, WCW, STARDOM and others. In 2020, the ‘Final Boss’ joined WWE and competed in NXT UK and would win the NXT UK Women’s Championship. She would hold the title until WWE NXT UK’s demise in September 2022 and lost the title to Mandy Rose at that year’s Worlds Collide. After a lengthy hiatus, Satomura has returned to action as part of WWE’s tour of Japan.

WWE allowing Meiko Satomura the chance to compete for Senjo not only shows the company’s respect for her, but is the latest example of WWE working with another promotion. 2024 has already seen WWE work with TNA, Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport, Marigold Wrestling and Pro Wrestling NOAH. Hopefully, the 44-year-old Satomura receives a fitting send-off to mark the end of a legendary career in the ring.

Joe Hendry Appears At WWE NXT Live Event After TNA Star’s Name Is Said

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The utterance of Joe Hendry’s name in Davenport, Florida this week resulted in the TNA Wrestling star making an appearance at a WWE NXT live event. In the hours leading up to the July 26, event, Hendry had suggested that he’d be at the show.

True to his word, Hendry appeared at the event to the surprise of the Davenport crowd after Mark Coffey inadvertently said his name. Hendry teamed with Je’Von Evans and Shiloh Hill to take on Gallus. Despite Hendry having Gallus’ number on WWE NXT TV in recent weeks, it was the heels who got the win.

Hendry has been a central part of the ongoing NXT-TNA crossover. After debuting as part of a battle royal, the viral TNA star has since headlined WWE NXT and worked alongside former NXT Champion Trick Williams. Much like the NXT-TNA partnership as a whole, Hendry’s work with the gold brand has proven exceptionally popular, leaving fans eager to see more of this working relationship.

Joe’s next NXT appearance will be this coming Tuesday when he performs a concert at Night One of the NXT Great American Bash. Hendry made sure fans at this week’s show were well aware of the upcoming performance as he gifted signed flyers promoting his segment in the parking lot. If Hendry’s previous concerts are any indicator, fans can expect another viral segment from the Scottish star who’ll have some choice barbs for those on the WWE NXT roster.

Related: Joe Hendry Fan Gets Tattoo of Viral TNA Wrestling Star

Latest On Beth Phoenix: WWE Status, Potential AEW Involvement

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More has come to light about Beth Phoenix’s status with WWE after her profile was changed on the company’s official website. Fans noticed this week that Beth’s profile was removed from the ‘active’ talent section and now is exclusive to the ‘Hall of Fame’ portion of the site.

The Glamazon’s time with WWE has come to an end, PW Insider reports. Despite only recently being pulled from the ‘active’ portion of WWE.com, Phoenix hadn’t wrestled for WWE since February 2023. At the Elimination Chamber PLE in Montreal, Beth and her husband Edge (now AEW’s Adam Copeland) defeated The Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and Rhea Ripley.

Phoenix parted ways with WWE in 2012 but returned in 2017 to be inducted into that year’s Hall of Fame. The induction marked the shortest period of time for a female wrestler to be inducted after her retirement. It’s not just WWE’s Hall of Fame that recognizes the Glamazon’s achievements as in 2019, she became the first woman to be inducted in the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. In addition to being a wrestler, Phoenix was a commentator for WWE NXT from May 2019 to December 2021.

Beth Phoenix And AEW

Beth has been backstage at several AEW shows ever since her husband joined the promotion in October 2023. The topic of Phoenix appearing for the company has been broached backstage, Fightful Select reports. Sources indicated that Phoenix is in amazing condition and could likely compete in an AEW ring if she chose to. Phoenix has already made a cameo for AEW, as the ‘You Think You Know Him?’ lyric from Copeland’s entrance theme is provided by his wife.

Signing Beth Phoenix would be a huge score for Tony Khan who has brought in Mercedes Mone, Kamille, and Mariah May in 2024 alone. Keep tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on Beth Phoenix’s future in the world of professional wrestling.

CM Punk On AJ Lee’s Wrestling Return: She Knows There’s Options

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CM Punk says AJ Lee is well aware of the options she has in terms of a potential wrestling return but it’s not something he is pushing her to do.

The potential return of the former Divas Champion continues to be a topic of discussion among fans as WWE has incorporated her name in Punk’s ongoing storyline with Drew McIntyre. NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez most recently said that the former World Champion himself is also trying to convince AJ to make a return.

When asked about it during a recent interview with Ringside Collectibles at the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con, Punk said that he is not pushing AJ in any way. According to him if a discussion was to take place about Lee returning under a legends deal or even signing up for a new action figure, he would like to stay out of that conversation:

“I’m the wrong guy to ask those questions about. My stance—I know there’s a lot out there of that—but I certainly am not pushing her to do anything. I think she knows that there’s options. I think she sees how happy I am and how things are different.

But if the right situation presented itself, it would have to be a discussion between her and certain people. I don’t necessarily want to be in the middle of that; just because it could get kind of weird. Selfishly, yes, I would love to make out with my wife on television again.”

While fans are hoping to see AJ Lee return to the ring as an active competitor, the chances of that are slim considering all the other projects the former wrestling star is involved in.

Though you can never say never in wrestling and the ongoing intense personal rivalry between Punk and McIntyre seems to be the perfect opportunity to reintroduce the former champion on WWE TV.

Apart from this, CM Punk also reflected on the Straight Edge Society faction and commented on potentially leading a new group with NXT stars. You can check out his full interview below:

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