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Bryan Danielson Gives Will Ospreay His Blessing To Use Tiger Driver 91

Thomas Lowson
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Will Ospreay may use the Tiger Driver 91 again, after seemingly being granted the blessing of Bryan Danielson during AEW Dynamite in Cardiff. On the show, Ospreay and MJF had an in-ring segment that resulted in MJF hitting a brainbuster on the man who’ll face him at AEW All In: London. The segment ended with Ospready bleeding from the head as the AEW American Champion celebrated what he had done.

Backstage, Ospreay was seen being tended to by a member of AEW’s medical crew as Renee Paquette tried to get his thoughts. Before she could do so, Bryan Danielson had a tense face-to-face with Ospreay and told him to “do it.”

The ‘it’ being referred to is seemingly Ospreay’s Tiger Driver 91 finisher, a move that the Brit has been against using since facing Danielson at AEW Dynasty. After Danielson was left motionless in the ring, with fans worried he had suffered a serious injury, Ospreay said on the post-show media scrum that he was retiring the move.

Ospreay’s reluctance to use the move has played into matches, as there has been spots where he has instinctively gone for the move, only to stop, giving his opponent a window to take advantage. With Danielson’s blessing, Ospreay could add one of the most exceptional (and dangerous) moves back to his repertoire when he faces MJF at All In: London.

AEW All In: London 2024

AEW All In: London 2024 will take place this Sunday, August 25, from Wembley Stadium in London, England. The show will be AEW’s second event from Wembley and hopes to follow on from the success of last year’s historic event. This weekend will mark Ospreay’s second time competing in Wembley Stadium as he defeated Chris Jericho last year. This weekend will be MJF’s third Wembley match as he competed on the pre-show and in the main event of last year’s event.

Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on AEW All In: London 2024, including full results at this weekend’s event inside Wembley Stadium.

Watch: Michael Oku Debuts In AEW With Amira Blair

Thomas Lowson
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Michael Oku and Amari Blair were on the scene at this week’s AEW Dynamite in Cardiff, Wales, with Oku wrestling in a dark match at the show. Oku faced Serpentico in the match, and Amira accompanied him to the ring. While the match did not air on TV, photos from Oku and Blair’s debut have surfaced on social media.

Oku recently challenged MJF for the AEW American Championship earlier this month at RevPro’s Summer Sizzler 2024 – Road to the Anniversary event in London. MJF retained at the event, which also saw an appearance by Will Ospreay. MJF and Ospreay will collide for the AEW American Championship this week at AEW All In: London 2024.

Michael Oku & Amira Blair

Oku and Miller didn’t appear on TV at this week’s Dynamite in Cardiff (the first TV taping outside North America) but that could easily change. Talent within RevPro shared their hope to Fightful earlier this month that Oku will be signed after his match with MJF. Oku is the current Undisputed British Heavyweight Champion, after defeating Great-O-Khan last month. The report adds that Blair could also be signed alongside Oku.

After Summer Sizzler, Oku told Stephanie Chase that there had been discussions between both he and Amira and AEW, and he has also teased appearing at All In: London. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for the latest on these two wrestlers and their quest to be ‘All-Elite.’

Stay tuned to SEScoops all weekend for our coverage of AEW All In 2024.

WWE Champ Liv Morgan Embraces the Spotlight: “I Feel Like This Is My Time”

Tyriece Simon
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WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan is currently riding high on her “Revenge Tour.” She kicked off her rise in the Monday Night Raw women’s roster by defeating Becky Lynch to win the title at King & Queen Of The Ring on May 25. Thus far, she has successfully defended her championship three times, including against bitter rival Rhea Ripley. The champion remains steadfast in continuing her reign and remaining on top of the women’s division.

In an interview with Sirius XM Busted Open’s Dave LeGreca, Morgan opened up about her career shift this year to being a “Heel.” She believes this is her time to shine in the company and is happy with her creative direction.

“…I feel like I’ve worked my whole for the success that I’ve had these four or five months, I’m just happy,” she said. “I really don’t know how else to put it. I’m happy. I feel like I put in the work. I feel like there is a difference between it’s your turn, and it’s your time, and I feel like this is my time.”

– Liv Morgan, Busted Open Radio

The champion noted that Grammy-nominated artist Jelly Roll told her it was her time at SummerSlam on August 3. Morgan’s latest action of stealing Ripley’s boyfriend, Dominik Mysterio, and aligning with the Judgement Day(Finn Balor, JD McDonagh, Carlito & Mysterio) has sparked interest from fans on how WWE plans to continue her storyline next.  

Liv Morgan On Her Ongoing Revenge Tour Storyline

Morgan’s latest title defense came by defeating “The Eradicator” at SummerSlam, with assistance from Mysterio. To add to the insult, the champion and “Dirty Dom” made out after the match to further embarrass Ripley. WWE’s decision to align Morgan with her new boyfriend and the rest of the Judgement Day has further cemented her status as one of the biggest “Heels” on the roster.

When speaking on her current “Revenge Tour” storyline, she expressed that she is happy with the reception from fans about the feud.

“…I’m just enjoying everyone watching and tuning in. I’m enjoying people loving it. I’m enjoying people hating it. It seems like it’s quite polarizing, and so it’s just fun to see how everyone reacts to what we are doing.”

– Liv Morgan, Busted Open Radio

Feuding with Rhea Ripley

Elsewhere in the interview, Morgan also discussed how the storyline of getting revenge is intriguing to fans because it is relatable. She pointed out that her issues with Ripley are unique because her actions could deemed justifiable because of what “Mamí” did to the champion in the past.

“…I feel like it’s something that maybe people can relate to. You know, getting revenge. Getting their lick back. Getting back at someone that hurt them. That wronged them, or maybe they didn’t get back at that person, and they wished that they did. I’m just being as true to myself as I can in this moment, and I’m just happy that everything went exactly the way that I said that it would.”

– Liv Morgan, Busted Open Radio

The WWE Women’s World Champion’s “Revenge Tour” will next involve teaming up with “Dirty Dom” to take on Ripley and Damian Priest at Bash In Berlin on August 31. The mixed tag team match will put Morgan and Mysterio’s relationship to the test against the wrath of their opponents.

Darby Allin: A Potential AEW World Champion in the Making?

Thomas Lowson
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Darby Allin is reportedly being considered for a potential run with the AEW World Championship, mere days before he challenges for the TNT title. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that discussions about Allin holding the AEW World Title have taken place though the timing of this potential run remains unclear.

Allin will challenge for the AEW World Championship at the Dynamite: Grand Slam on September 25, a prize for winning this year’s Royal Rampage. The question now is whether Allin will challenge current champion Swerve Strickland or Bryan Danielson. The two will face off at AEW All In: London 2024 later this week in Wembley Stadium.

While Danielson is the favorite to win the AEW World Championship, his reign may not be a long one. Bryan recently shared that he expects to undergo neck surgery this year which would make a potential AEW World Title reign a brief venture. Between that and Bryan openly discussing ending his full-time in-ring career, some fans believe that Grand Slam: Dynamite would be an ideal coronation of Allin as World Champion.

Allin will also be in action at All In: London 2024. The 31-year-old will challenge TNT Champion Jack Perry in a Coffin match in Wembley Stadium. Allin already holds the record for the longest title reign (186 days) and most combined days overall (214 days.)

Darby Allin & The AEW World Championship

Allin has had three opportunities at the AEW World Champion so far in his career, including on the third episode of Dynamite in October 2019. The first TV defense of the gold saw inaugural champion Chris Jericho retain in a Street Fight.

Allin’s next opportunity would again be on Dynamite, this time in July 2020 and saw him come up short against Jon Moxley. His most recent shot at AEW’s richest prize was at Double or Nothing 2023, where MJF retained in a four-way that included Jack Perry and Sammy Guevara.

Rhea Ripley Welcomes Rematch Against “Princess” Charlotte Flair

Tyriece Simon
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WWE superstar Rhea Ripley is ready for a rematch against her rival Charlotte Flair. In their last encounter, “The Eradicator” defeated Flair to win the Smackdown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 39 on April 1, 2023.

“The Queen” is currently recovering from tearing her ACL, MCL, and meniscus. The injury occurred during a match against Asuka on December 3, 2023, during the episode of Friday Night Smackdown. After months of rehab, Flair is getting closer to returning to the WWE.

In an interview with veteran wrestling journalist Bill Apter, Ripley warned the seven-time WWE Smackdown Women’s Champion ahead of her comeback.

“…Mamí is bigger and better than ever. I beat you at WrestleMania 39, so you best believe that I can do it again. I love you, princess. Get back and be safe because Mamí is going to put you back down.”

– Rhea Ripley, WrestleBinge

After Ripley won the title in 2023, she was moved to Monday Night Raw along with Judgement Day (Finn Balor, Damian Priest & Dominik Mysterio). WWE’s creative decision made it so they were separated by different brands and has created intrigue from fans about a rematch.

Charlotte Flair Recovery Update

On July 30, Flair posted a video of herself training in the ring at the WWE Performance Center. She was noticeably wearing a knee brace but could do in-ring exercises with seemingly little discomfort.

WWE announced in December 2023 that Flair’s timeline for her full recovery could be nine months, which would be on track for a September return. She’s listed as a free agent on the WWE website, allowing the company some flexibility to place her on Raw or SmackDown when the time comes.

Ripley is currently focused on her feud with WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan and her former boyfriend, Mysterio. That said, the company could move to have Flair rekindle her rivalry with “Mamí” when she is ready to return. 

Chris Jericho Has Several Great Reasons To Stay In Wrestling

Matt Boone
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Chris Jericho has much more TV time he wants to fill before he considers ending his legendary pro wrestling career, regardless of what a vocal group of fans say. The inaugural AEW World Champion is having none of the chatter on social media and at AEW live events that he should retire

“Sting, at 64, retired and everybody is different,” Jericho tells Daily Star. “To me, when the ‘Please retire!’ chants were going, I was laughing because I have zero intentions of that.”

The 53-year-old referenced his ‘six-pack’ abs, his athleticism and decades of experience as reasons why he still needs to funnel young talent into the ‘Jericho Vortex’ for quality time under ‘The Learning Tree.’

“I’ve got a six pack, I can do a moonsault, and I know exactly what I’m doing in the ring,” Jericho said. “I know how to write storylines. I like the company I work for. I like my boss. I like the guys and girls in the company. Why would I want to retire? What’s the point, because someone told me to? F**k off.”

– Chris Jericho, Daily Star

Jericho makes it clear there’s no timetable, and no real reason, for him to wrestle his final match.

“There is no time-limit,” he stated. “It could be this week. It could be five years from now. I don’t know. I just know that as of this moment, I’m having a great time. I love going to work. I love contributing. There is no reason to stop doing that.”

– Chris Jericho, Daily Star

Chris Jericho will wrestle “Dynamite Kid” Tommy Billington on AEW Dynamite tonight from Cardiff, Wales. It’s the ‘go-home’ show before AEW All In this Sunday August 25 from Wembley Stadium in London, England. Jericho will once again pull double duty on AEW’s biggest event of the year. His band Fozzy will perform live at the event for a second consecutive year and he’ll defend his FTW title against HOOK a “Last Chance Match.”

Watch Chris Jericho’s full interview with Daily Star:

Tony Khan – ‘Right Now Is The Most Exciting Time In AEW History’

Thomas Lowson
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There’s never been a more exciting time for All Elite Wrestling and its fans, according to AEW President Tony Khan. Ahead of this weekend’s AEW All In: London 2024 pay-per-view, Khan shared his excitement in an interview with Barstool Rasslin.

“It’s a really exciting time for the company and I think it’s the most exciting time in the history of the company right now. We’re coming up, we’ve got, this massive event we’re just days away from. AEW All In: London, Wembley Stadium. It’s a huge, huge event… There’s a lot of cool things happening in the company right now.”

AEW certainly has plenty in the works, including their first stadium event in the United States. AEW All In: Texas 2025 will take place in Arlington and will mark the latest development in AEW’s relationship with the city. Khan has confirmed that All In will return to the UK in 2026.

The promotion is also finalizing a new broadcast rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery which appears to be going well for Khan and his promotion, according to recent reports. Khan has often spoken highly of AEW’s relationship with WBD and David Zaslav, and intends to work with the broadcaster for a long time to come.

On-screen, AEW continues to produce hours of wrestling content every week with Dynamite, Rampage, and Collision, and will host its first TV show outside North America with tonight’s Dynamite from Cardiff, Wales.

While AEW may have plenty in the works, there will be fans who disagree with the stance that now is the most exciting time, at least in terms of the on-screen product. AEW has seen a dip in viewership across all three of its shows as of late, with Rampage recently hitting an all-time low (admittedly against the Paris Summer Olympics.) While Khan is excited about the now and the future, the task remains for the AEW President to get fans who’ve since stopped tuning in regularly just as amped up.

Roman Reigns Pulled From Ads For SmackDown USA Premiere (9/13)

Matt Boone
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When WWE rolls into Seattle, Washington for the debut episode of SmackDown on the USA Network next month, Roman Reigns might not be part of the show.

The official WWE website originally listed “The Original Tribal Chief” for the premiere episode of SmackDown on USA on September 13 at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington.

WWE.com released the initial advertising for the 9/13 show back on August 9, which prominently featured Reigns. On August 21, the same page removed Reigns from the featured photo, as well as the list of featured Superstars advertised for the show, and replaced him with Tiffany Stratton.

Reigns made his WWE return for the first time since losing the Universal Championship to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania XL Sunday at SummerSlam on August 3, and has appeared on both episodes of SmackDown that followed the annual premium live event.

WWE SmackDown makes the transition back to the USA Network after a five-year run on FOX that began in 2019, where along with SyFy, the show called home from 2010-2019.

John Cena Signs WWE Contract Extension Past 2025 Retirement

Thomas Lowson
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John Cena’s days as a WWE Superstar may be coming to an end, but the wrestling icon will remain with the company for a long time to come. Speaking with Shannon Sharpe on Club Shay Shay, Cena shared that he will remain with WWE after next year’s retirement.

“I have such a trustworthy relationship with them [WWE] over two decades. I am a champion of the brand. I love the company. It is my home. They are my family. Even after 2025, I’ve already signed an extension to remain a member of the WWE family for the near, mid, and long-term future. I don’t think there will be a beat of my heart where WWE blood doesn’t come out of it.”

2025 will mark the end of John Cena’s in-ring career, as the legend shared at WWE Money in the Bank 2024 in Toronto, Canada. The 16-time WWE World Champion will make approximately 30-40 dates and will be at significant PLEs including Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 41. Several wrestlers have put themselves forward as potential opponents including The Miz, Bron Breakker, Randy Orton, Rob Van Dam, Matt Cardona, and TNA Wrestling’s Joe Hendry.

Cena’s contract extension is certainly good news for those at WWE, as the Hollywood A-Lister has always been willing to speak highly of the company outside of the ring. Not only that, but Cena continues to be a top merchandise seller, earning WWE a tidy profit from dedicated fans. Earlier this month, Cena said he intends to be an ‘ambassador’ for WWE after his career in the ring comes to an end.

Chris Jericho’s Band Fozzy Will Perform Live At AEW All In (Again)

Michael Reichlin
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Chris Jericho’s metal band Fozzy will perform at AEW All In for the second consecutive year.

“We’re going to do that again. To say we’ve played Wembley Stadium twice. It’s a combined 5 minutes. At Wembley, I think any Rock’n Roll band would take that.”

– Chris Jericho, Daily Star

Jericho performed his song ‘Judas’ with Fozzy for his ring entrance before his epic match with Will Ospreay last year at All In in front of over 80,000 fans.

The inaugural AEW World Champion challenges HOOK for the FTW Championship this Sunday. Check out the AEW All In 2024 Full Card.

AEW All In 2024 Odds: Current Favorites for Wembley Stadium

Jake Skudder
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AEW All In 2024 is set to take place this Sunday at Wembley Stadium, and with the event drawing near, betting odds have surfaced, highlighting the current favorites to emerge victorious in this highly anticipated pay-per-view.

Below, we break down the top contenders and their odds according to BetOnline right now.

Main Event Matchups and Favorites

Bryan Danielson vs Swerve Strickland (c)

One of the most intriguing matchups at AEW All In 2024 features Bryan Danielson, who is currently favored to win with odds of -300. His opponent, Swerve Strickland, the reigning champion, stands as the underdog with odds of +200.

Danielson’s experience and popularity make him a strong favorite, but talks of him retiring and working without a contract right now mean there is a good chance these odds are wrong.

Mariah May vs. Toni Storm (c)

In the women’s division, Mariah May is heavily favored to defeat Toni Storm, with odds of -700.

Toni Storm, the defending champion, faces long odds at +400. The odds reflect May’s rising status in AEW and her momentum going into this match, positioning her as the likely winner.

Will Ospreay vs. MJF (c)

Will Ospreay is one of the biggest favorites at AEW All In 2024, with odds of -1200. His opponent, MJF, comes in as the underdog with odds of +600.

Given Ospreay wrestling in front of the home crowd and the way this feud has gone, it’s no surprise that he is expected to come out on top in this bout.

Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Britt Baker

Mercedes Mone is another overwhelming favorite with odds of -2000 to retain her title against Britt Baker, who is listed at +700.

Jack Perry (c) vs. Darby Allin

Jack Perry is favored to win with odds of -600 against Darby Allin, who has odds of +350. Perry’s recent success in the ring suggest he will retain his championship at Wembley Stadium.

NXT Tapings Results Airing August 27, 2024

Michael Reichlin
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WWE taped next week’s August 27, 2024 episode of WWE NXT in advance at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Here is a quick preview for the broadcast, followed by spoiler results:

NXT Preview (8/27)

  • The D’Angelo Family vs. No Quarter Catch Crew
  • Malik Blade takes on Brooks Jensen in singles competition.
  • Joe Coffey goes one-on-one with Je’Von Evans.
  • Karmen Petrovic faces off against Izzi Dame.
  • Kelani Jordan meets a surprise opponent, courtesy of Wendy Choo.
  • Fallon Henley & Jacy Jayne team up to battle Meta-Four in tag team action.

Plus, Joe Hendry hosts another concert and Wes Lee & Zachary Wentz face-off.

NXT Results (8/27)

Below are the match results from these tapings, the final show before NXT No Mercy on Sunday, September 1, 2024, from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado:

Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley & Jacy Jayne, with Jazmyn Nyx) defeated Meta-Four (Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson) by pinfall.

Karmen Petrovic defeated Izzi Dame by pinfall.

Six-Person Mixed Tag Team Match: The D’Angelo Family (Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo, Luca Crusifino & Adriana Rizzo w/ Tony D’Angelo) defeated No Quarter Catch Crew (Charlie Dempsey, Myles Borne & Wren Sinclair) by pinfall. During the match, two people in suits spoke with Tony D’Angelo.

Wes Lee and Zachary Wentz had a face-off, with security separating them.

Kelani Jordan defeated TNA Knockout Rosemary by pinfall after being called out by Wendy Choo, who attacked Jordan post-match and posed with the NXT Women’s North American Championship.

Brooks Jensen defeated Malik Blade by pinfall.

Joe Coffey defeated Je’Von Evans by pinfall with interference from Mark Coffey.

Joe Hendry held a concert, interrupted by Ethan Page and Ava, who announced Trick Williams as the special guest referee for their title match at NXT No Mercy. The segment ended with Hendry pinning Page in a mock pinfall, similar to recent actions by Oro Mensah.

AEW Dynamite Preview from Cardiff, Wales (8/21)

Michael Reichlin
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Catch a special episode of AEW Dynamite tonight, August 21, 2024, live on TBS at 8pm ET from the Utilita Arena Cardiff in Cardiff, Wales. This marks the Welsh debut for the promotion, just four days before AEW All In 2024 this Sunday on pay-per-view.

AEW Rampage tapings will be held after Dynamite goes off the air, and will air Saturday night on TNT. All Elite Wrestling’s top stars will be on hand for tonight’s historic show, including AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland, Will Ospreay, TBS Champion Mercedes Mone, MJF, Toni Storm and more.

AEW Dynamite Matches for Tonight:

  • AEW Continental Championship: Kazuchika Okada (c) vs Claudio Castagnoli
  • AEW Women’s World Championship: ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm (c) vs Saraya
  • Chris Jericho vs. ‘Dynamite Kid’ Tommy Billington
  • HOOK vs. Big Bill

Plus: Final hype for All In including Nigel McGuiness moderating a meeting bewteen Swerve Strickland and Bryan Danielson, and MJF and Will Ospreay go face-to-face.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for our continued coverage of AEW Dynamite and check out our AEW News section for more.

Catch up on these highlights from last week’s show:

Rey Mysterio Wants Mask vs Mullet Match Against Dominik

Bishal Roy
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WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio wants a high-stakes match against his son, Dominik Mysterio to complete the trilogy. Rey and Dominik were previously involved in a feud that ended at WrestleMania 39. Rey, who initially hesitated to put his hands on his son, taught him a lesson. The legendary wrestler got one up against his son at ‘The Show of Shows.’ Last month, Rey once again defeated Dominik Raw.

While ‘Dirty Dom’ is desperate to get a win over his dad, Rey Mysterio wants to increase the stakes. He wants a Mask vs Mullet match against Dominik. During his appearance at Fanatics Fest NYC, Rey Mysterio told Comicbook that he is eager to put his mask on the line in the potential trilogy match and he would expect Dominik to put his Mullet on the line as well. He said:

“If that trilogy does happen, and when it does, I am willing to put my mask on the line. And he loves his mullet so much, so I would be expecting for him to put his mullet on the line. That or his Dirty Sanchez (mustache).”

Previously, Rey had pitched a Mask vs Hair match as well. At 49, Rey Mysterio is currently in the later stages of his illustrious career but he is still competing at the highest level.

Meanwhile, Dominik Mysterio is involved in a feud with former Judgment Day members Rhea Ripley and Damian Priest. Rhea and Priest were betrayed by Dominik and Finn Balor respectively. ‘Dirty Dom’ joined hands with the WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan and brought her into the faction. The new Judgment Day soon ousted Ripley and Priest.

The saga looks far from over as the Terror Twins are trying to exact revenge on Liv Morgan and Dominik Mysterio. They will collide in a mixed tag team match at Bash In Berlin PLE on August 31.

Rhea Ripley Makes Comic Debut With Gil Thorp Comic Strip

Bishal Roy
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Former WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley has made her debut in comics.

‘The Eradicator’ was featured on the August 20 edition of the Gil Thorp comic. The edition saw the characters attending a wrestling event at the Milford Convention Center and Rhea Ripley was a performer featured at the event. The characters of the comic were delighted and praised ‘Mami’ for being the best.

“Gil Thorp” is one of the longest-running sports-themed comic strip which has been in publication since September 8, 1958. The strip revolves around Gil Thorp, who is the athletic director at Milford High School. He trains the school’s football, basketball, and baseball teams.

Rhea Ripley recently made an appearance at the inaugural Fanatics Fest NYC convention at the Javitz Center in New York City. The festival brought together some of the top stars from WWE, NFL, MLB, UFC, NHL and more. WWE Superstars and Legends participated in Photo Opportunity sessions, Autograph Sessions, stage shows, and live podcasts. The event took place from August 16 to August 18

Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley and Damian Priest were betrayed by the new Judgment Day at SummerSlam. The Judgment Day saga has been going on for a while and the Terror Twins are now seeking revenge on Liv Morgan and Dominik Mysterio. The two teams will battle it out at the upcoming Bash In Berlin PLE on August 31.

Ricky Starks Draws Interest From WWE NXT

Bishal Roy
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There has been speculation about AEW star Ricky Starks’ next move amid his hiatus. He could well be WWE-bound soon as he has drawn interest from WWE’s developmental brand, NXT.

It has come to light that Starks is still under contract with AEW despite being away from AEW TV and there are no details as to when his contract expires. Amid the rumors floating on social media, Fightful Select has reported that NXT sources noted there is significant interest in bringing Starks into the white and gold brand once he is available.

As speculation continues to fuel about his future, Starks took to his social media and dropped a picture of himself. He flaunted his shredded physique and made it clear that he is maintaining his shape ahead of his possible jump to WWE.

Starks was last featured on AEW TV on March 30 edition of AEW Collision. He had teamed with Big Bill and faced Top Flight in an AEW World Tag Title Tournament match. Starks became one of the top stars of the promotion but his lackluster booking has drawn major criticism from the fans. Reports stated that he turned down creative pitches which led to AEW writing him off the programming.

Starks previously worked as an enhancement talent for WWE and had some matches for the company. Starks is a good friend of WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes and was spotted at last year’s Royal Rumble PLE. This could certainly influence Starks’ move to WWE.

Moreover, several former AEW stars including Lexis King and current NXT Champion Ethan Page also jumped ship to NXT. Ricky Starks could certainly follow suit. More AEW stars could also be in line to sign with WWE.

Cain Velasquez Will Not Stand Trial In Attempted Murder Charge

Thomas Lowson
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UFC legend/WWE alum Cain Velasquez will not stand trial after pleading no contest to the charges against him regarding a 2022 incident. Velasquez was charged with first-degree attempted murder, multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and shooting an occupied motor vehicle, among other charges. As part of his plea, Velasquez “will be convicted but not subject to a mandatory life sentence after premeditation allegations were dropped in accordance with a plea agreement with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office,” the East Bay Times reports.

Velasquez was arrested after opening fire at a vehicle carrying Harry Eugene Goularte, driven by his stepfather, Paul Bender. Bender was struck by a bullet fired by Velasquez and was hospitalized with non-threatening injuries. Goularte had been charged with molesting an underage relative of Velasquez at a home daycare center run by his mother. This case is ongoing.

Cain Velasquez And Pro Wrestling

After retiring from MMA in 2019, Velasquez turned his attention to wrestling and worked a few Lucha Libre AAA shows before signing with WWE that year. Velasquez’s sole WWE match saw him lose to UFC rival Brock Lesnar at Crown Jewel 2019. Lesnar, who had won the WWE Title shortly before the event, lost to Cain at UFC 121 in October 2010.

Velasquez was released from WWE in April 2020 as part of ‘budget cuts’ stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Velasquez returned to pro wrestling in 2021, working a match at Lucha Libre AAA’s Triplemania Regia event in December of that year. Velasquez also wrestled in December 2022 but has not competed since.

NXT Star Injured At Tuesday’s Double TV Tapings

Thomas Lowson
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Note: This article contains spoilers for the August 27, edition of WWE NXT

A WWE NXT Superstar was left a bloodied mess at the recent tapings of WWE NXT for the episode that will be broadcast next week. In a tag-team match, Fallon Henley and Jacy Jayne took on Meta-Four’s Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend. During the match, Henley suffered a nose injury, Corey Brennan of Fightful reports.

image 6
Henley at the taping for next week’s WWE NXT.

Henley was “bleeding badly” from her nose but was able to finish the match. The match saw interference by Jazmyn Nyx and Henley and Jayne hit a double-team move on Lash Legend to win the match. On this week’s WWE NXT, the trio of Jayne, Nyx, and Henley spoke about their alliance and were dubbed ‘Fatal Influence.’ WWE filed a trademark on the term earlier this month.

This injury is an unfortunate setback for Henley, who has been a part of WWE NXT since 2021. She turned heel for the first time in her career during April’s Spring Breakin’ event earlier this year, attacking Thea Hail after her victory over Jayne. Henley’s turn has been explained as like Jayne, she has taken exception with ‘rookies’ getting opportunities in NXT, though the pair have made an exception for Nyx.

Henley is a former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion as she and Kiana James won the gold at NXT Vengeance Day in February 2023. The pair held the gold until NXT Stand & Deliver that April, where they lost to Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn.

AFC Bournemouth and WWE 2K Teaming Up in Premier League Collab

Thomas Lowson
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Premier League soccer team AFC Bournemouth is stepping in the ring with WWE 2K in an epic collaboration between the two parties. In the coming weeks, fans can expect AFC Bournemouth-themed content to debut in WWE 2K24. Rob Mitchell, Commercial Director at AFC Bournemouth, shared his excitement about the partnership:

“This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with our fans through a new, innovative platform. The synergy between WWE 2K’s engaging gameplay and the vibrant spirit of Premier League football is sure to create an unforgettable experience.”

Bryce Yang, Senior Director of Franchise and Partnerships Strategy at 2K, echoed this enthusiasm:

“The partnership between WWE 2K and AFC Bournemouth represents a dynamic fusion of two exciting sports worlds. We’re excited to see this collaboration succeed and confident it will bring a new level of entertainment to fans.”

Wrestling & Soccer

WWE isn’t the only major wrestling promotion to form a partnership with a Premier League soccer team. News of this collaboration with AFC Bournemouth comes mere days after AEW reached a deal with Fulham Women FC to serve as the front-of-kit sponsor of the team.

Fulham is owned by Tony Khan’s father Shahid Khan and the AEW President has a prominent executive role with the team. With the new season kicking off earlier this month, AFC Bournemouth will face the men’s Fulham team on December 29, and once more on February 12, 2025.

Want to stay in the loop about all things WWE 2K as well as other video games? Check out our Gaming hub to make sure you don’t miss a second of the action!

Joe Hendry to Challenge NXT Champion Ethan Page at No Mercy

Thomas Lowson
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Joe Hendry is heading to NXT No Mercy to face WWE NXT Champion Ethan Page after winning a high-stakes triple threat match this week. Hendry emerged victorious over Pete Dunne and Wes Lee to earn the title match at the upcoming NXT PLE.

At ringside, Ethan Page went to great lengths to avoid facing Joe Hendry, including pulling the referee out of the ring when Hendry appeared to have the match won. Later, after Hendry slammed Wes Lee onto the announce table and delivered another Standing Ovation to Pete Dunne, Page actively prevented a second referee from entering the ring.

The match’s finish saw Dunne Hendry with a Bitter End, but Trick Williams ran into the ring and hit a Trick Shot knee on Dunne. Hendry would follow up by getting the pinfall and the title match with Page.

This upcoming match will mark the first time a male TNA-contracted competitor will challenge for a WWE Championship in the main event of a WWE Premium Live Event. Earlier this year, Jordynne Grace (already the TNA Knockouts World Champion) challenged NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez at NXT Battleground.

WWE NXT No Mercy

NXT No Mercy will take place on September 1, 2024, from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, the day after WWE Bash In Berlin. The show will be the second NXT No Mercy event and the 15th No Mercy show in WWE history. The card as it stands is as follows:

  • Ethan Page (c) vs. Joe Hendry (NXT Championship)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs. Jaida Parker (NXT Women’s Championship)
  • Kelani Jordan (c) vs. Wendy Choo (NXT Women’s North American Championship)
  • Oba Femi (c) vs. Tony D’Angelo (NXT North American Championship)
  • Chase University (Andre Chase and Ridge Holland) (c) vs. Nathan Frazer and Axiom (NXT Tag Team Championship)

Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on WWE NXT No Mercy.

Liv Morgan Rocks the Red Carpet at “The Crow” Premiere

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Superstar Liv Morgan was at The Crow premiere Tuesday night at Village East Cinema in New York City. The reigning Women’s World Champion flaunted her title as she walked the red carpet and posed for eager photographers. Morgan recently signed with Paradigm talent agency.

The Crow (2004)

The Crow, in theaters this Friday (8/23), is a reboot of the 1994 cult classic and directed by Rupert Sanders. Bill Skarsgård portrays Eric Draven, a musician resurrected to avenge his and his fiancée Shelly’s murders, played by FKA Twigs.

Mercedes Moné Plans To Revolutionize Women’s Wrestling Again

Michael Reichlin
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Mercedes Moné promises to elevate women’s wrestling again, and we’ll see the next ‘phase’ of her plan this Sunday at All Out. Speaking in her Moné Mag newsletter, the AEW TBS Champion invoked the Four Horsewomen of NXT. “Charlotte, Bayley, Becky, and I led Phase 1 of the women’s revolution. We disrupted the business in the best and most necessary way.”

Looking ahead, she declared, “With me coming here [in AEW], I promise that another disruption to the business of women’s wrestling is coming. Phase 2 is just getting started.”

She highlighted the representation at the PPV, and drew a stark comparison to WWE’s past efforts. “There are 3 women’s matches at All In… When ‘Mania was 1 night, how many women’s matches were there? Not 3.”

The three matches involving women scheduled for AEW All In 2024 are (Full Card):

  • AEW Women’s World Championship: Mariah May vs. Toni Storm (c)
  • TBS Championship: Britt Baker vs. Mercedes Moné (c)
  • Mixed Tag Match: Willow Nightingale and Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kris Statlander and Stokely Hathaway

For more details on the CEO’s newsletter:

Hulk Hogan Jokes About Body Slamming Kamala Harris

Michael Reichlin
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During an appearance this week at the Thirsty Cowboy in Medina, Ohio, wrestling icon Hulk Hogan engaged with the crowd in a rowdy and controversial manner, directing remarks at U.S. Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Hogan, known for his flamboyant promos, teased that he might “body slam Kamala Harris” and even suggested he could “drop the leg” on her. The crowd reacted enthusiastically, but Hogan quickly downplayed the remarks, emphasizing that he was only joking, saying, “That was not me, that was the beers talking.”

The event was part of Hogan’s promotion for his new beer, Real American Beer, a premium light lager introduced this summer, which bills itself as “brewed with 100% North American ingredients.” The incident, captured in an embedded video courtesy of TMZ Sports, has garnered mixed reactions.

Charles Barkley Would “Absolutely” Be Welcomed in AEW

Michael Reichlin
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Tony Khan has expressed that he would welcome Charles Barkley to AEW television with open arms if the NBA legend shows interest. Khan, currently making media appearances to promote Sunday’s AEW All In pay-per-view at Wembley Stadium in London, shared these thoughts during an appearance on the Dan Le Batard Show. He discussed AEW’s relationship with Warner Bros. Discovery and ongoing media rights negotiations.

While Warner Bros. Discovery is set to lose the NBA and its iconic Inside the NBA franchise, co-host Charles Barkley remains committed to the company for the foreseeable future. This has sparked speculation about Barkley potentially appearing in AEW, following in the footsteps of Shaquille O’Neal, who wrestled on AEW Dynamite in 2020. Khan mentioned that he believes Barkley is a wrestling fan and recalled the AEW crew presenting the Inside the NBA team with AEW Championship belts.

Khan praised Shaq, not just for his work in AEW but also for the kind of person he is. If Sir Charles is interested in stepping into the unpredictable world of professional wrestling, Khan is “absolutely” willing to make it happen.

“I don’t know what the future of the NBA holds, but Charles Barkley, as far as being one of the top hosts in all of sports and being one of the most entertaining people in all of television, I think he adds to any sport he’s involved in.

If he wanted to come to AEW, we would love that. Absolutely, I would encourage that and support that.”

– Tony Khan

Watch: Pat McAfee Thanks Fans At Last WWE Raw Until January

Thomas Lowson
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WWE RAW announcer Pat McAfee wasn’t afraid to share his gratitude at what will be his final episode of the Red brand for a while. From atop the announcer’s desk, McAfee said thank you to those who built the set for RAW, those in the production truck, the make-up crew, the Superstars, those in Gorilla, and “the greatest of all time” Michael Cole.

McAfee didn’t stop there, as he saved his final thank-you to the WWE Universe, and ended by saying he’ll see everyone in January. Check out this exclusive footage of McAfee’s address, shot by longtime SEScoops correspondent Noah Mark Blaustein.

McAfee will be stepping away from the WWE RAW commentary table to rejoin the ESPN College GameDay team for the upcoming season which will start this week. McAfee’s departure will come as a blow to his fans as his enthusiasm at WWE events has proven to be infectious.

While McAfee will be off WWE TV for a handful of months, he won’t be leaving the world of wrestling entirely behind. This Saturday’s edition of ESPN College GameDay will air live from Dublin, Ireland, and will fittingly see the country’s own Sheamus serve as the celebrity guest picker.

The RAW commentary team will undergo another major change soon enough when Joe Terristore joins the red brand in September 2024. Terristore’s involvement with WWE was announced back in July and he comes with a lengthy background at ESPN. As to who will fill in for McAfee on next week’s RAW remains to be seen, though The Miz filled in for Pat earlier this year when McAfee was off dealing with a family situation. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on Pat McAfee from in and outside of WWE.

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