Pete Sanchez, a wrestler who spent much of his career making others look better, as enhancement talent has passed away, it has been confirmed. This unfortunate news was shared by Bill Apter who had been told that Sanchez had been dealing with an illness for “quite a while.” The veteran wrestling reporter spoke highly of Sanchez’s work as an enhancement talent and added that he was an incredibly “pleasant” person to work with.
Known as ‘Pistol’ Pete, Sanchez competed in the NWA, World Wrestling Council, and the WWE back when it was known as the WWWF. It was at a WWWF show in Madison Square Garden on March 1, 1976, that Sanchez did the honors for Ric Flair in what would be the Nature Boy’s first foray in a McMahon-endorsed ring. This match came mere months after the infamous plane crash from October 1975 after which Flair was told he would never wrestle again.
Flair is not the only notable name associated with Sanchez’s career. Over his tenure, he also worked with names like Bret Hart, Jake Roberts, the Big Boss Man, the Road Warriors. While he lost the vast majority of his matches, Sanchez picked up some wins including over Johnny Rodz and Kevin Sullivan.
We here at SE Scoops would like to share our deepest condolences to Sanchez’ family, friends, and fans at this awful time.
Konosuke Takeshita has taken the mantle as a leader of Strong Style Wrestling after being bequeathed the honor by an undisclosed mentor in America. Speaking during the ongoing G1 Climax after his victory over HENARE and Jeff Cobb, the AEW star spoke about being entrusted with the intracicies of Strong Style Wrestling.
“I have a mentor in America. That mentor has entrusted me with leading the wrestling world, entrusted me with Strong Style. Who’s my mentor? Can’t tell you yet. YeaOh!”
Though Takeshita didn’t name his mentor in America, fans have been led to believe it could be WWE Superstar Shinsuke Nakamura. Not only is Nakamura known as the ‘King of Strong Style, but he used ‘yeaoh!’ as a signature phrase during his lengthy time with New Japan. The hand gesture Takeshita used at the end of the promo also appeared remiscient of the former WWE NXT Champion. Earlier this year, Nakamura and Takeshita were seen together with the All-Elite talent sharing a selfie with a ‘fan’ online.
What is Strong Style?
Strong Style Wrestling blends real fighting moves into a pro-wrestling performance to make the various strikes look as legitimately painful as possible. The term dates back to Antonio Inoki who was billed as a strong style fighter in New Japan for matches where he’d fight kickboxers and martial artists. Inoki used this style for his 1976 fight with Muhammad Ali that was watched by an estimated 1.4 billion people.
Cody Rhodes has a very strong yet unique notion about people who are intimidated by suits.
The Undisputed WWE Champion recently went sneaker shopping with Complex. In the video, he discussed topics such as the perfect shoes for a Cody cutter, which WWE superstar deserves his own sneakers, and more.
Rhodes is someone who is meticulous with every aspect of his presentation to stand out from the crowd. This includes not only his matches or promos but also the attire he wears. When he’s not in the ring doing something physical, the SmackDown star is always neatly dressed in a suit.
When asked if he’s going to continue wearing suits forever, Cody replied positively while also saying some choice words for people who feel uneasy with his preferences:
“I think I will probably be a suit guy in the industry forever and this—I don’t know if this is appropriate for this show or not—but I’ll say it. I’ve said it in interviews prior. Anyone who I’ve ever worked with in business who’s intimidated by the fact that you wear a suit, I feel like they have a little dick…”
Cody Rhodes discussed how he is known to make very polarizing choices such as his neck tattoo. He then claimed that his aim is to do whatever it takes to be something:
“Like Clearly, I mean, I don’t know if that’s a thing we can say on the show but clearly like…come on, man—everyone does what they do. I don’t want to wear shorts with you; give me a break.
Maybe you can’t use any of that but just the energy that comes from people who are like ‘Ugh, I don’t know man, he’s in that suit. He’s trying to be something’ I am not trying to be something, I wanna be something. That’s the whole thing.”
The American Nightmare is currently scheduled to defend his championship against Solo Sikoa at the upcoming SummerSlam PPV on August 5. The event still has tickets available and you can check out details of it here.
CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre is an unlikely feud that has turned into one of the most engaging elements of WWE RAW over 2024, with both men blurring the lines of kayfabe and reality to build to their massive match at SummerSlam.
If you haven’t had a chance to watch every second of this big feud, then we’ve got you covered with this guide on the timeline of events that has led to SummerSlam 2024.
The Beginning: CM Punk’s Injury
CM Punk’s Return and Injury
CM Punk made a triumphant return to WWE in late November 2023, sparking excitement among fans as it felt like that something that would never come to pass, especially after his backstage issues in AEW.
However, during the Royal Rumble in January 2024, Drew McIntyre hit a Futureshock DDT that resulted in Punk suffering a torn triceps. This injury sidelined Punk but also sowed the seeds for the feud, which had somewhat started in December 2023 when McIntyre alluded to there being potential backstage upset at RAW if Punk signed with the show, saying that he should go to SmackDown instead.
Drew McIntyre’s Reaction
Following Punk’s injury, McIntyre didn’t hold back his disdain. On RAW, McIntyre infamously stated, “I prayed for this and it happened,” adding fuel to the fire of the feud that many weren’t expecting to see as part of Punk’s return.
His then attack on Punk’s injured arm solidified him as a top heel on RAW and gave Punk a reason to be off television to rehab his injury.
WrestleMania 40: The Turning Point
The rivalry reached new heights at WrestleMania 40. With Punk unable to compete due to his injury, McIntyre took the “opportunity” to step into the World Heavyweight Championship match against Seth Rollins, which many expected to be Punk’s role before his injury in January.
Despite his injury, Punk somewhat inserted himself into the match by taking up a position at the commentary table. As McIntyre celebrated after taking the win against Seth Rollins, Punk struck.
Punk’s interference caused enough of a distraction to McIntyre to allow Damian Priest to cash in his Money in the Bank contract, who then beat Drew and robbed him of his World Championship moment in front of fans at a WrestleMania for the very first time.
McIntyre, who had walked the line between hero and villain up to that point, began a descent into a darker, more obsessive character.
Clash at the Castle: A Homecoming Spoiled
The next chapter in their saga unfolded at Clash at the Castle in Scotland, the Premium Live Event that took place in McIntyre’s home country.
With the WWE World Heavyweight Championship on the line, McIntyre seemed destined to claim victory in front of his countrymen against Damian Priest, the man who cashed in on him at WrestleMania 40.
However, Punk once again proved to be McIntyre’s nemesis, interfering in the match and costing the Scottish Warrior his chance at glory.
This moment was particularly poignant in the feud, as it not only denied McIntyre a championship victory but also robbed him of a career-defining moment in front of his home crowd, much like how he was screwed against Roman Reigns at the Clash at the Castle event in Wales.
Money in the Bank: Dreams Denied AGAIN
The Money in the Bank event provided yet another moment for Punk and McIntyre’s ongoing war.
McIntyre, having earned the coveted Money in the Bank briefcase, attempted to cash in for a championship opportunity earlier in the night cashed in during the match between Damian Priest and Seth Rollins.
However, Punk emerged to ensure that McIntyre’s efforts would be in vain, and his interference meant that Damian Priest would win the now triple threat match. It wasn’t just McIntyre that was scorned though, Rollins was visibly livid at Punk costing him the match, and it would lead on to the next beat of the storyline.
What else happened in this feud?
RAW Promo Segments
Throughout Punk’s recovery period, the rivalry between the two superstars continued to simmer, largely played out through social media exchanges and sporadic appearances by Punk.
These interactions served to keep the feud fresh in the minds of fans, even in the absence of physical confrontations.
Punk used every opportunity to needle McIntyre, taunting him about his failed championship attempts and questioning his ability to succeed at the highest level of WWE.
McIntyre, in turn, became increasingly unhinged in his responses, his character evolving into that of a man consumed by his hatred for Punk.
The Blurred Lines of Reality
One of the most intriguing aspects of the CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre rivalry has been its ability to blur the lines between scripted storyline and genuine animosity.
Both men have a reputation for being outspoken and unafraid to voice their true feelings, leading to speculation among fans about how much of their feud is performance and how much is rooted in actual real-life tension.
This ambiguity has added an extra layer of intrigue to their interactions, with fans scrutinizing every word and action for hints of genuine emotion.
One of the most recent moments on X/Twitter that caused a huge stir online was the involvement of Jack Perry, the man that CM Punk fought backstage at AEW All In, with McIntyre posting an image of he and Perry stood together. McIntyre would later delete the tweet, adding further to fan speculation ahead of SummerSlam.
The SummerSlam Match: CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre with Seth Rollins in the middle
It was revealed on the July 22 2024 episode of RAW that Seth Rollins, the man who has had issues with both men over the past year, will be the official for the contest.
Rivalry History Video
You can watch a full CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre rivalry history video below from WWE:
WWE SummerSlam is one of the biggest wrestling shows of the year. 2024’s installment is shaping up to be memorable, thanks to WWE’s many red-hot long-term storylines.
If you haven’t been able to keep up with every storyline development, don’t worry. There’s still plenty of time to catch up on each rivalry and maximize your enjoyment of the show.
Check back throughout the week, as we’ll be updating this article with the latest Road to WWE SummerSlam playlists as they’re released.
Tickets for WWE SummerSlam 2024 are now on sale. Fans eager to witness the event from the stadium can purchase their tickets through Ticketmaster or directly via the Cleveland Browns Stadium event page.
Group Tickets and Suites
For those interested in group tickets or suite options, the Cleveland Browns Ticket Office provides tailored packages.
You can reach them at 440-891-5050 for more information and to secure group seating, ensuring an exceptional experience for larger parties or corporate outings.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for WWE SummerSlam 2024 vary based on seating location and package type. Prices generally range from affordable options for the general public to premium seating for fans looking for an enhanced experience. Here’s a breakdown:
Standard Seating: These tickets offer great views at reasonable prices, ensuring fans can enjoy all the action without breaking the bank.
Premium Seating: For those wanting to be closer to the ring, premium seating options are available at a higher price point, offering an up-close and personal view of the event.
On Location Packages
On top of getting Standard or Premium tickets, you can also get tailored packages with extra perks from On Location:
Silver Level Tickets
Silver level packages include:
Upper Level Seating
Pre-Show Out of Venue Hospitality with Superstar Appearances
Official WWE Priority Pass Gift
Dedicated Stadium Entrance
WWE Credential & Lanyard
Champion Level Tickets
Champion level packages include:
Premium Ringside Seating
Ringside Photo Op
Photo Op Fast Lane in Hospitality
In-Venue Pre-Show Hospitality with Kane & WWE Superstars
Official SummerSlam Ring Mat Plaque
Commemorative Chair
+All Silver & Gold Inclusions
Undertaker Suite
The Undertaker suite package includes:
Enjoy SummerSlam from the comfort of a comfortable chair in a premium luxury suite at Cleveland Browns Stadium.
Category: Premium Seat
Section: Suite
All Inclusive Food & Beverages: No need to wait in line at the concession stand as your suite will be stocked with a variety of all-inclusive food and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.
In-Suite Undertaker Appearance
Meet & greet with the Undertaker WWE Superstar.
Undertaker Themed Souvenir Gift: Receive an exclusive Undertaker themed souvenir gift upon arrival at your suite.
Exclusive Elite Event: Enjoy F&B and Superstar appearances at the exclusive Elite event.
WWE SummerSlam Event Details
Event Schedule
Gates Open: 4:30 PM
Event Starts: 6:30 PM
Parking Information
Parking details will be updated closer to the event date, and we will update this page as and when they are confirmed!
Tonight’s WWE Raw broadcasts live on the Syfy Network 8 PM ET from the XCEL Energy Center in St. Paul, MN. It’s WWE SummerSlam week and we’re now full-speed ahead to Saturday’s big event from Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, OH.
Programming Note: WWE Raw is pre-empted for the next two weeks due to the USA Network airing events from the 2024 Olympic Games. As a result, Raw airs on Syfy this week and next week (Monday, August 5, 2024). Raw returns to USA in two weeks Monday, August 12, 2024.
Raw Preview for Tonight
Here are the matches and segments announced for Raw:
Special Segment: Special Guest Referee Seth ‘Frekin’ Rollins presents the official match instructions to Drew McIntyre & CM Punk ahead of their Summerslam clash.
Singles Match: Gunther vs. Finn Balor
Singles Match: Xavier Woods vs. Karrion Kross
Six-Woman Tag Team Match: Lyra Valkyria, Kayden Carter, & Katana Chance vs. Sonya Deville, Zoey Stark, & Shayna Baszler
Singles Match: Sheamus vs. Bronson Reed
Tag Team Match: The Creed Brothers (Brutus & Julius Creed) vs. Akira Tozawa & Otis
Stay tuned to SEScoops for our continued coverage of WWE Raw and check out our WWE News section for more.
What Happened Last Week
Last week’s WWE Raw from Green Bay, Wisconsin saw several big developments in the top storylines headed into SummerSlam. Gunther’s confrontation with Damian Priest led to a brawl, increasing the temperature for their match. Bron Breakker continues to show he’s on the rise, beating fellow badass-killer Ilja Dragunov to earn a rematch for the Intercontinental title at SummerSlam.
CM Punk also called out Drew McIntyre, leading to their singles showdown FINALLY being made official for SummerSlam. Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio’s storyline with Liv Morgan took its latest turn and more.
Here is WWE’s Top 10 Raw Moments video for July 22, 2024:
NXT Level Up talent will be given a golden opportunity to hone their skills in Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling, the latter promotion has confirmed. Talent from the NXT secondary show will be part of ‘Breakout’ events from Reality of Wrestling, the Texas-based promotion run by NXT commentator/two-time Hall of Famer Booker T.
Our biggest Sunday #Breakout show to date with 189 fans at the Walker Texas Lawyer Arena!
BREAKING NEWS: Going forward NXT Level Up Talent will be part of our BREAKOUT Events. pic.twitter.com/hPdVa0UI77
— Reality of Wrestling (@TheOfficialROW) July 29, 2024
This is a huge deal reached for WWE NXT Level Up, which features talent at the very start of their wrestling journey. From there, wrestlers ‘graduate’ to WWE NXT and if they continue to improve, eventually make it to the main roster. The show launched in February 2022, as a replacement for 205 Live, and it goes head-to-head with AEW Rampage.
WWE NXT & Reality of Wrestling
Though this new agreement will see more regular involvement by NXT talent, Reality of Wrestling has hosted gold-brand talent in the past. In September 2023, Charlie Dempsey and Axiom appeared at the ‘Grand Opening’ event. Mere months later, Roxanne Perez appeared at ROW One Night Only, the first event for the promotion of 2024. It’s fitting that ‘The Prodigy’ was at the event given that she was trained by Booker, a fact referenced multiple times on WWE NXT TV.
Competing in Reality of Wrestling presents a golden opportunity to NXT Level Up talent to develop their skills in front of a crowd without the pressure of a TV production. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on their crossover and the latest news from the world of pro wrestling.
Gillberg is very happy and satisfied with his career because he got to wrestle some of the best in the business and be part of many memorable moments.
The former WWE star recently spoke to Attitude Era podcast where he discussed topics such as imitating other WWE stars, the current era of wrestling and more.
During the interview, Gillberg who made his debut in 1990 and retired in February 2020 reflected on his 3 decade long wrestling career. He said that he is a happy man because he got to live his dream:
“I loved it, man. I’m a fan who got to become a wrestler, and got to go up WWF and WWE and wrestle the biggest names in the business. I’m a happy man. My dreams were fulfilled. It’s like the kid who plays baseball his whole life and wants to win the World Series. I did.”
I Was That Emotional: Gillberg
Gillberg also talked about winning the WWE Light Heavyweight Championship in November 1998. The 65-year-old revealed that he went to Vince McMahon’s office after the title win and cried:
“I ain’t gonna lie to you the night I won the belt I went to Vince’s office to thank him and I cried. I was that emotional over it man. Wrestling’s my life man. Always has been.”
The former WWE star started working as a jobber for the company in 1991, only a year after his debut. During this time he got to wrestle the likes of Undertaker, Sgt. Slaughter and Jim Duggan.
The famous Gillberg character was introduced by the company in December 1998 as a parody of WCW’s Goldberg. The gimmick ended up being the biggest hit of his career and fans still remember many moments from that run to this day.
WWE is on the hunt for a new Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs in the latest change to the promotion’s behind-the-scenes dynamic. The promotion recently posted an opening for a ‘Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs – Talent Relations & Talent Development’ in an on-site role in Stamford, CT. A role summary reads as follows:
“Attorney position involved in all legal aspects of Talent Relations and Talent Development for World Wrestling Entertainment, LLC (“WWE”), primarily responsible for negotiation, contract drafting, risk management, legal strategies and policies relating to all talent agreements.”
The ideal candidate will have at least five years of experience as a lawyer with experience in matters relating to media, sports, talent agency, TV production and/or live events. A law degree from a U.S.-based law school is also a must, and they must be admitted to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
The role of VP of Talent Relations was previously held by John Laurinaitis, who replaced Jim Ross in the role in June 2004. Laurinaitis himself was replaced in the role by Paul ‘Triple’ Levesque in 2012 but returned in March 2021. He was removed from his post in June 2022 due to the investigation into the Vince McMahon ‘hush money’ scandal and was let go by the company on August 8.
WWE seeking a new Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs – Talent Relations & Talent Development marks just the latest shift to the company’s corporate offices. In April 2024, four names exited the company, including Sue Aitchison who had been with the promotion since 1986. These changes came shortly after the departure of Kevin Dunn who has since been replaced by Lee Fitting as Head of Production.
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.
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 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
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 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.”
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.
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.
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 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 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.
“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.”
Bret Hart is one of the most brutally honest professional wrestlers in history.
— The Straight Shooters (@ShootersRadio) July 27, 2024
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.
Wrestling in peace, Leo! I’m going to miss him. He was very good to me. https://t.co/0boux0XHsP
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 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.
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.
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.
? Meiko Satomura will officially retire from the ring in April 2025.
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.
Emi Sakura appeared at Meiko Satomura's press conference.
She says she wants to face Meiko at Ichigaya. She says she doesn't care whether Meiko is a producer or coach at WWE. She says she believes she's the best producer in the world.
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.
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 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.
With Shane Taylor injured after #DBD2024, “The Machine” Brian Cage teams with the NEW #ROH Pure Champion “Taiga Style” Lee Moriarty in this Three Way Tag Team Match!
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.
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 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.
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.
