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Why Kelly Kelly Wasn’t Shocked by 2012 WWE Release

Thomas Lowson
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Why Kelly Kelly Wasn’t Shocked by 2012 WWE Release

Kelly Kelly’s time as a WWE Superstar came to an end in September 2012, a surprise given that she was the top woman in WWE as Divas Champion just one year prior. In a new interview with Chris Van Vliet of Insight, Kelly admitted why she wasn’t surprised to be shown the door.

“I got a call on my off day, yeah. I was like, I get it, I feel like I kind of have been slacking off.”

Whether Kelly had been ‘slacking off’ or not, there were no hard feelings from WWE. On the contrary, those she spoke to were supportive of Kelly to pursue opportunities outside of the ring.

“[They said] we know you want to do other things, go do them. We want to see you happy. We can tell you’re not very happy here right now. I was happy not being on the road because I was seeing somebody.”

Debuting six years earlier aged 19 in ECW, Kelly said that she “grew up in front of WWE.” While her late teens and early 20s were far from the norm, Kelly was pleased to have been a WWE Superstar.

“This was how I was meant to grow up. I grew so much in such a young age and I saw the world. I got to do so many things… so lucky and blessed to be able to do that.”

While Kelly continues to make occasional appearances for WWE, her focus is on her children and life outside of the ring. With no hard feelings stemming from her first WWE run and her release, fans can expect to see her back at some point, perhaps in an upcoming Women’s Royal Rumble.

Kelly Kelly Reflects On Historic World Heavyweight Title Defense

Kelly Kelly Reflects On Historic World Heavyweight Title Defense

Thomas Lowson
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Kelly Kelly Reflects On Historic World Heavyweight Title Defense

Kelly Kelly is a former WWE Divas and WWE 24/7 Champion, but she also has a unique title accolade to her name. To date, Kelly is the only woman to have successfully defended a Men’s World Championship in the promotion. The defense came on the February 4, 2011, edition of SmackDown as she and champion Edge defeated Dolph Ziggler and Lay-Cool in a unique World Heavyweight Title tag-team handicap match.

14 years later, the match remains one of Kelly’s most notable bouts. Speaking on the Insight podcast, the WWE alum reflected on the impact the match made.

“I don’t think I realized at the time how people [talked about it]. They were like, No, you were the only woman to defend the World Heavyweight Title in a match like that. It was a big deal.”

Kelly recalled being pitched the match the night before, and shared that she’d be (kayfabe) fired during the same SmackDown by Vickie Guerrero. This led to WWE’s team questioning if Kelly had the sufficient acting chops.

“[Michael Hayes asked] Can you cry on command Kelly?’ I’m like, ‘I guess?’ He was like, ‘If you don’t cry, it’s all gonna go to sh*t. The fans need to feel this. They really need to feel like you’re fired.'”

Kelly was dealing with “so much pressure” but had a plan to drum-up tears. The easiest way for her to feel sad and hurt and produce tears, was if she was hurting for real.

“I told Michelle and Layla, I said, ‘Okay, I need you to beat the sh*t out of me. I really need you to lay it in.’ Because I can internalize it, and I can hold it all in until it’s time for me to cry.”

Kelly’s plan worked to perfection, as she held back the tears until the perfect moment. With “the ugliest cry” being produced by the young Superstar, Kelly’s performance both during and after her sole World Heavyweight Title defense made this a key moment in her career.

Kelly Kelly Puts Family Over WWE Return As Mom of Twins

Kelly Kelly Puts Family Over WWE Return As Mom of Twins

Thomas Lowson
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0
Kelly Kelly Puts Family Over WWE Return As Mom of Twins

Kelly Kelly has traded in her days in the ring to days changing diapers as the former WWE Divas Champion is today a proud mom of twins. While the glitz and glam of being an internationally-recognized Superstar may be appealing, Kelly made clear to Chris Van Vliet of Insight that her family is her number one priority.

“My whole life revolves around my kids now. I turn down so many things because I just know that I’m only gonna have this time with them for so long.”

Kelly isn’t afraid to turn down signings if they clash with an event her children are participating in. As a mother, Kelly can’t help but be impressed by those wrestlers who balance life at home and in the ring.

“It’s wild. I commend them. I see Becky, who has her daughter on the road, Alexa… I think what they’re doing is really cool.” 

Both Becky Lynch and Alexa Bliss are moms to one child and each spent over a year out of action due to pregnancy and motherhand. With double the work as a mom to wins, one boy, one girl, Kelly is confident a return and schedule like Bliss or Lynch is off the table.

“Not with two. I don’t know. I think with two you’re pushing it. I just think it’s already so much whenever I try to go out of town with them and we do vacations.”

Though Kelly Kelly is happy with her choice, she admitted to missing the reaction from the WWE Universe. However, Kelly gets her fill with surprise appearances, including as part of three Women’s Royal Rumble matches.

When fans will see Kelly Kelly again, only time will tell. Until then, the former WWE Divas Champion is happy to be with her children for every step and scrape they’ll face in these crucial years.

Kelly Kelly Wishes She Could Forget “Cringe” WWE Exposé

Superstars Have Fun After WWE Raw in Paris, France

Thomas Lowson
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Superstars Have Fun After WWE Raw in Paris, France

The fun didn’t stop after the cameras stopped rolling following the September 1, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw in Paris, France. In the show’s main event, Jey Uso and LA Knight battled ‘Big’ Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker. The segment ultimately saw Jimmy Uso reunite with his brother, much to the delight of the fans in La Defense Arena.

After the show, Rhea Ripley made her entrance in the French capital. As back in the U.S. and around the world, Ripley received a huge reaction as fans sang to her theme.

In the ring, Ripley thanked the fans for being “awesome,” though didn’t make reference to being mobbed before Clash in Paris. Jey Uso was then handed the mic and shared a YEET with the crowd as his theme song played.

LA Knight and Rhea Ripley had some fun in the ring. In fan-recorded footage, the pair can be seen sharing a high five and a hug before participating in some unique dance choreography.

While Knight, Uso, and Ripley had fun after Raw, none were in a joking mood during the show. Knight and Jey shared their frustrations over not leaving Clash in Paris as the World Heavyweight Champion. Meanwhile, Ripley had a segment with Asuka, who made clear that IYO SKY didn’t need anyone but the Empress of Tomorrow.

Roman Reigns To Be Sidelined “Indefinitely”

Latest On Liv Morgan Alleged Stalker Case, Note Blames WWE Star

Thomas Lowson
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0
Latest On Liv Morgan Alleged Stalker Case, Note Blames WWE Star

New developments have emerged in the Shawn Chan, the Canadian man charged with one count of interstate domestic violence against Liv Morgan. It is alleged that Chan traveled to the United States and loitered for hours at Morgan’s Florida home, waiting for her to arrive.

According to court filings shared by PW Insider, Chan flew from Scarborough, Ontario, to Orlando, Florida, on May 26. Customs agents were told that he would be staying at WWE’s Performance Center, though the facility does not provide housing. Four days later, Chen traveled to Morgan’s residence, circled the property several times, before entering through the backyard. Attempts to enter through the front door failed and Chan reportedly left a note and waited for several hours before departing.

The note is quoted in part in the criminal complaint:

“It’s me Shawn, the guy you all hang out with on [gaming platform deleted] online. You’ve been trying to contact me, or should I say reach out to me when I’m absent from that game. So who’s the stalker huh?! I NEVER said and did anything bad for over 10 years, yet you all dared hating me for no reason. I came here to pay just a friendly visit, nothing more. Yet, I’m the one who looks like a stalker thx to all of you. And you all think I’m going to have empathy, sympathy and care about any of you anymore? I will start talking and doing whatever I want despite all your shoosh finger faces that you all make. Yea, I just wanted to let you know that I was here.”

WWE security who reviewed surveillance footage identified Chan and alerted the authorities, resulting in the FBI arresting him on June 3. He was indicted on June 25 and if convicted, could face as much as five yearrs in prison.

On August 20, Chan filed a motion asking the court to reconsider his detention without bail. His attorneys argued that Chan could stay at a Salvation Army facility while awaiting trial. Chen has signed a waiver of Speedy Trial, allowing time for a psychiatric evaluation. He is expected to stand trial in November.

This case is a scary ordeal and bears striking resemblance to the Sonya Deville stalking incident of 2020. Thankfully, Morgan is okay, but this situation shows why fans need to know never to cross the line.

Vince Russo Criticizes Wrestlers’ Social Media Use Amid Stalker Incidents

Dwayne Johnson Sobs At The Smashing Machine 15-Minute Ovation

Thomas Lowson
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Dwayne Johnson Sobs At The Smashing Machine 15-Minute Ovation

Dwayne Johnson coouldn’t hold back the tears as A24’s The Smashing Machine was met with praise and cheers at the Venice Film Festival. On Monday, September 1, the wrestler-turned-Hollywood A-Lister wept as his new film was hooted and cheered in Italy, with Variety calling the 15-minute ovation one of the longest of the festival. The emotional spectacle was compared to Brendan Fraser who was similarly emotional four years ago after the premiere of 2021’s The Whale.

It wasn’t just tears for Johnson in Venice on Monday. Earlier in the day, the former WWE Champion appeared on the red carpet and signed autographs and posed for selfies. Moments before the film began, a fan in the audience shouted “Can you smell what the Rock is cooking?!,” earning a hearty laugh from the man of the hour.

The Smashing Machine shows a different side to Johnson, who is breaking away from his usual work in Hollywood action ‘flicks’ and family-friendly cartoons. A description from the film from A24’s website calls it “The story of legendary mixed martial arts & UFC fighter Mark Kerr.” The film sees Johnson as Kerr reunite with his Jungle Cruise co-star Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s then-wife Dawn.

The biopic has earned rave reviews from criticis with some even saying that Johnson could soon be heading to the Oscars. Whether that happens remains to be seen, but Johnson’s role is certainly turning heads.

The Rock Was “Really Hungry To Do” His Dramatic Turn In “The Smashing Machine”

The Smashing Machine Is A Dwayne Johnson Revelation, Says Critics

Thomas Lowson
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0
The Smashing Machine Is A Dwayne Johnson Revelation, Says Critics

The reviews are in for A24’s The Smashing Machine, a new project that has shown a different side to Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Though Johnson shows plenty of muscle in the biopic of UFC alum Mark Kerr, this film is far more serious than his usual action blockbuster/family friendly options.

Johnson’s more grounded performance as Kerr has earned him praise among critics. Deadline’s Damon Wise writes:

“Dwayne Johnson owns the whole thing with his truly remarkable work as fighter Mark Kerr, disappearing so fully underneath Kazu Hiru’s astonishing prosthetics that the opening of the film, presented as contemporary footage from an event in Sao Paulo 1997, looks genuinely like the real thing.” 

The Independent praises Johnson for going against his usual type, and believes that this film could have long-term effects for how audiences view the wrestler-turned-actor.

“This is the most raw and vulnerable that Johnson has ever been on screen. Once you’ve seen him this exposed, you won’t watch his typical action movie stunts in quite the same way ever again.”

Variety described Johnson’s performance as a “revelation” and heralded the film itself as a standout among the roster of conventional sports movies.

“The Smashing Machine isn’t a sports movie that wants to jerk a Pavlovian response of triumph out of us. It’s after something subtler and more moving.”

Currently, the film holds an 88% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing other Johnson films like Beyond The Mat and Furious 7. A24 will release the film theatrically on October 3.

Report: WWE Has Interest In Signing The Righteous

Andrew Ravens
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Report: WWE Has Interest In Signing The Righteous

The Righteous (Vinny and Dutch), could be on their way to WWE. A new report from Fightful Select indicates that the duo has informed independent promoters that they will be finishing up their current bookings in the coming months, a strong sign that they are heading to a big promotion.

According to the report, WWE has shown interest in the team, and a signing is considered “likely.” This news comes after the duo had a tryout with WWE in 2022. The Righteous were most recently a part of All Elite Wrestling, where they were associated with WWE Hall of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts.

They primarily competed on the AEW Collision and Ring of Honor brands. Their profiles were removed from the official AEW roster page in May of this year, with reports at the time confirming their departure from the company. Their last notable match in AEW was at the Final Battle pay-per-view, where they lost to the team of Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara in a double bullrope match.

Before their time in AEW, The Righteous were a staple of the Ring of Honor tag team division, where they held the ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championships with their former partner, Bateman.

Karrion Kross On His WWE Departure: “I Would Never Work Somebody Like That”

Andrew Ravens
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0
Karrion Kross On His WWE Departure: “I Would Never Work Somebody Like That”

The circumstances surrounding the recent departure of KarrionKross and Scarlett from WWE have been a major topic of conversation, with many fans speculating that the situation could be an elaborate storyline. In a new interview, Kross directly addressed the “work” speculation, stating that it is not something he would ever do to the fans. His wife, Scarlett, added that even their co-workers in WWE believed their exit was legitimate.

Speaking to Denise Salcedo of Instinct Culture, Kross was asked where he thinks things stand with the fans in terms of his departure being a work. He made it clear that he would not be a part of an angle that involved him losing his job. “There are hundreds of people who have been coming to the table, a lot of them angry because they were hoping it was a work and there would be a payoff. I would never work somebody like that,” he said. “To me, it’s not in good taste. Running an angle where you lose your job and upset people is not something I would do. I understand why people thought it was going to be a work, they were hoping it was going to be a work.”

The fan speculation was fueled by the nature of Kross’s on-screen character, his television time leading up to his departure, and WWE’s own history of blurring the lines of reality, such as with the recent Seth Rollins “injury” angle before SummerSlam. The belief that it could be a work was not just limited to the fans, as Scarlett revealed that their colleagues in the WWE locker room were also in the dark about the situation.

Scarlett noted that their co-workers believed the departure was real, and Kross even showed a text message from a colleague to back up this. The couple explained that they remained quiet about the situation initially in the hopes that WWE would “recover the situation.”

Kross and Scarlett officially became free agents after their WWE contracts expired on August 10. They have since begun announcing a series of convention appearances and in-ring bookings on the independent circuit for their “Killer Smokeshow: Carnage Tour.”

The Usos Reunite On WWE Raw

Andrew Ravens
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The Usos Reunite On WWE Raw

The Usos have officially reunited on Monday Night Raw. In an emotional moment to close tonight’s show from Paris, France, Jimmy Uso made a surprise return to save his twin brother, Jey Uso, from a post-match beatdown at the hands of The Vision. The reunion comes just one day after Roman Reigns was stretchered out of the Clash in Paris premium live event.

The main event of the September 1st episode of Raw saw Jey Uso team with LA Knight to take on two members of The Vision, Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. The powerful duo from The Vision picked up the victory in the tag team contest. After the match, they continued their assault on Jey Uso, with Breakker delivering another spear and Reed following up with his Tsunami splash.

As Jey was laid out in the center of the ring, his twin brother, Jimmy Uso, came running down the entrance ramp with a steel chair in hand, chasing off Breakker and Reed. Jimmy then entered the ring and attended to his injured brother. In a poignant moment, Jey looked up at Jimmy and said, “I need you.”

The reunion comes after an interesting period for the brothers, which saw them on opposite sides of the Bloodline civil war for a time. With Roman Reigns now on the shelf with a storyline injury, the return of Jimmy Uso to stand by his brother’s side is a critical development in the ongoing war against Seth Rollins’s faction. The emotional reunion suggests that The Usos will now be a united front against The Vision.

The timing of the reunion is also critical as WWE heads towards its next premium live event, Wrestlepalooza, on September 20. With The Vision holding the World Heavyweight Championship, a reunited Usos could be the key to shifting the balance of power on Monday Night Raw.

Roman Reigns To Be Sidelined “Indefinitely”

Andrew Ravens
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0
Roman Reigns To Be Sidelined “Indefinitely”

WWE has announced that former Undisputed WWE Champion Roman Reigns is out of action “indefinitely” after suffering what is being reported in storyline as multiple fractured ribs. The announcement was made by Michael Cole on tonight’s episode of Monday Night Raw. The on-screen injury is designed to write Reigns off of television for a period of time, as he is slated to begin filming his role in the upcoming “Street Fighter” movie.

The storyline injury is a result of a assault by Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker that took place after Reigns’s match at the Clash in Paris premium live event this past Sunday. After defeating Reed in their one-on-one grudge match, Reigns was celebrating when Breakker appeared and speared him through the commentary table. The two members of “The Vision” then continued their attack in the ring.

The brutal assault continued with Reed delivering a trio of his signature Tsunami splashes to “The Tribal Chief,” including one while Reigns was strapped to a stretcher. Jey Uso’s attempt to make the save was stopped by another spear from Breakker. The segment concluded with Reigns being carried out of the arena on a stretcher.

This storyline injury will facilitate Reigns’s absence from WWE programming as he heads to Australia to begin filming his role as Akuma in the “Street Fighter” movie. He is expected to be away for at least a month but is currently advertised to return to WWE television in time for the Survivor Series premium live event in November.

The attack at Clash in Paris is the latest chapter in the ongoing war between Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins’s faction, The Vision. With Reigns now on the sidelines, it remains to be seen how his allies, such as Jey Uso and CM Punk, will respond to the brutal actions of Reed and Breakker.

Spoiler – Result Of WWE Intercontinental Title Match in Paris

Thomas Lowson
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0
Spoiler – Result Of WWE Intercontinental Title Match in Paris

The WWE Intercontinental Championship was on the line in Paris, France as ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio put the gold on the line against AJ Styles. Before the match got underway, Adam Pearce laid down the law, banning The Judgment Day from ringside for the title match.

Mysterio was forced to go it alone in his fourth encounter with Styles, a former Intercontinental Champion in his own right. Before the match even began, Mysterio showed his ‘dirty’ side by attacking Styles as Alicia Taylor was making the announcements.

While Styles had decades more experience in the ring over Mysterio, Dirty Dom more than held his own and dominated for much of the match. Though the crowd were able to get Styles back in the match, it was the surprise appearance of El Grande Americano who made the difference. Americano used his steel plate to take out AJ and Dominik capitalized to get the win.

Mysterio has held the gold since WrestleMania 41, and has never shied away from declaring himself the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time. While Dom has a long way to go from surpassing the record-long reign of GUNTHER, more matches like these continue to carve an impressive legacy for Dirty Dom.

New Champion To Be Crowned At WWE WrestlePalooza

Thomas Lowson
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0
New Champion To Be Crowned At WWE WrestlePalooza

The fate of the vacant WWE Women’s World Championship will be decided when two of Raw’s very best battle for the gold at WrestlePalooza on September 20. During the September 1, episode of WWE Raw, General Manager Adam Pearce confirmed that Stephanie Vaquer and IYO SKY will battle for the gold as part of WWE’s first PLE as part of their ESPN partnership.

Both women have rightful claims for the gold. Stephanie Vaquer won a battle royal at WWE Evolution to earn herself a shot at the gold at Clash in Paris. Vaquer had been due to battle Naomi before the latter was forced to vacate the gold due to her pregnancy.

As for SKY, she also holds a valid claim for a title shot. SKY lost the Women’s World Championship at Evolution when Naomi cashed in Money in the Bank during her title match with Rhea Ripley. Now, SKY is ready to relcaim the title she lost in controversial fashion.

WrestlePalooza will kick off a new era and a new title reign. Will Vaquer cement her arrival on Raw with a title win, or will SKY prove yet again that 2025 is her year? Only time will tell…

Saraya Praises Naomi & Women’s Wrestling Amid Title Shake-Up

Rampage Jackson Blames “Drunk & Reckless” Syko Stu, Son Was Allowed To Rough Stu Up

Thomas Lowson
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0
Rampage Jackson Blames “Drunk & Reckless” Syko Stu, Son Was Allowed To Rough Stu Up

Raja Jackson’s actions at the KnokX Pro Wrestling event shocked fans and raised questions as to how the attack on Syko Stu could have happened. Fans have rallied behind Stu after the attack, and have raised thousands for his recovery, but now Rampage Jackson has weighed in.

In a new Instagram post, the UFC alum and father of Raja acknowledged that his son acted irresponsibly. Rampage had previously condemned his son’s actions, saying he had no place being in the position he was in.

“My son Raja crossed the line, and I’m furious at him for how he handled things... Yes, my son deserves consequences for going too far. He knows better.”

While Rampage touched on his son’s role in attacking Stu, the bulk of his post was taken to blaming Stu for what happened. Stu had previously mistakenly hit Raja with a beer can, though he apologised and the pair shook hands backstage. In his post, Rampage didn’t mince his words.

“Let’s not act like Stu is innocent here. He’s lucky I wasn’t there when he hit my son over the head with that beer can—especially when Raja was already dealing with a concussion from sparring the day before. I don’t care if a locker room full of pro wrestlers came after me.”

Rampage also claims that Stu was drunk when he hit Raja with the can, though there has been no evidence backing up this claim. Claiming that the Stu’s apology was that of a drunk, Rampage discussed why his son accepted it in the first place.

“Raja took it too far, but he only shook Stu’s hand and accepted his drunken apology because they told him he could be part of the storyline.”

The elder Jackson did not provide evidence that Stu had been intoxicated when he hit Jackson with the can. In a bold claim, Jackson said his son was told that he could “rough Stu up,” before adding that Stu has been ‘intoxicated’ before at events.

“They told him he could rough Stu up—I have witnesses. And this isn’t the first time Stu’s been drunk and reckless backstage.”

Jackson signed off with a simple message: “play stupid games, win stupid prizes.” While the wrestling world remains angry at Raja’s attack, Stu bears plenty of blame for him being attacked according to the UFC alum.

Syko Stu Stable But In Critical Care, Says Brother

Swerve Strickland On Being A Meme: “Whatever Gets My Face Out There More”

Andrew Ravens
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0
Swerve Strickland On Being A Meme: “Whatever Gets My Face Out There More”

In the world of professional wrestling, becoming a viral meme is often a sign of a superstar’s growing popularity and cultural relevance. For AEW’s Swerve Strickland, who has been the subject of several popular memes this year, it’s something he is happy to embrace, as long as the content remains fun and not offensive.

While speaking to Complex Sports in a recent interview, Swerve was asked for his thoughts on his newfound status as a meme. He made it clear that he has a good sense of humor about the situation and sees the value in the extra exposure it brings him. He explained that as long as the memes are not derogatory or hurtful, he is all for the fans having their fun with his on-screen moments.

“Whatever gets my face out there more, and if y’all can entertain this, as long as it’s not offensive, I’m cool,” Swerve said. His relaxed attitude about the memes shows his understanding of modern fan culture and his willingness to engage with the audience in a fun and lighthearted way. This approach has only endeared him more to the AEW fanbase, who appreciate his willingness to be in on the joke.

During the interview, Swerve was shown one of the most popular memes of him, which was created from a moment at the All In: Texas pay-per-view. The image captured his intense look as “Hangman” Adam Page won the AEW World Championship. “Yeah, the Michael Jackson person here, I’m like, ‘Umm?’ they make it seem like I’m a parody of myself. Like, I’m impersonating myself,” he said with a laugh.

He also referenced another popular meme that turned him into a blue genie coming out of a lamp. “The one where where they turn me blue, and they put me out coming out of a lamp. I appreciate all of them,” he stated. His acknowledgment and appreciation for the specific memes show that he is not only aware of his online presence but also enjoys the creativity of the fans who make them.

“Like I said, as long as it’s fun is not like derogatory, hurting anybody or being offensive, have your fun, have your way with it. It’s the internet. This is what we’re here for. Just don’t hurt nobody’s feelings, especially mine.”

WWE Star Wants To Be The Man To Retire John Cena And Randy Orton

Andrew Ravens
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0
WWE Star Wants To Be The Man To Retire John Cena And Randy Orton

WWE NXT Champion, Oba Femi, has his sights set on some of WWE’s biggest legends. In a new interview, the NXT Champion spoke about several dream matches he wants on the main roster, including bouts where he would retire both John Cena and Randy Orton.

While speaking with Going Ringside, Femi made it clear he is ready to take on the top names in the business. His comments are a confident statement from the man who has been positioned as the future of the NXT brand.

When asked about the possibility of facing John Cena during his 2025 farewell tour, Oba Femi did not hesitate. He stated that he would be the one to show the 17-time world champion the door.

“If I could catch John Cena… I’ll put him out, I’ll show him the door, he’s on the way out, so watch your step, you know? I would,” Femi said. He also named CM Punk as another “good one” he would like to face.

When asked about Randy Orton, Femi was equally confident. “I would definitely fight Randy. Just feel sorry for Randy, his back. I’ll show him the door too,” he stated. “I think they’ve been on top for a very long time and I think enough is enough. I think it’s time for the new crop of superstars to rise up to the top.”

Another dream match that has been heavily discussed by fans is a powerhouse showdown between Oba Femi and the former World Heavyweight Champion, GUNTHER. Femi addressed the possibility but said he wants the match to be built on a real story, not just fan service.

“I am, it has to be for the right reasons. Not just because the fans said so,” he explained. “I have to want to fight Gunther. He has to want to fight me. There has to be a good reason.”

The Rock Was “Really Hungry To Do” His Dramatic Turn In “The Smashing Machine”

Andrew Ravens
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0
The Rock Was “Really Hungry To Do” His Dramatic Turn In “The Smashing Machine”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has officially arrived at the Venice Film Festival for the world premiere of his new A24 drama, “The Smashing Machine.” In a press conference for the film, Johnson, alongside his co-star Emily Blunt and director Benny Safdie, discussed his dramatic transformation for the role and the emotional journey of bringing the story of MMA legend Mark Kerr to the screen.

The film represents a significant departure for Johnson, who is known for his blockbuster action films. In “The Smashing Machine,” he takes on the role of Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion who battled a harrowing addiction to painkillers. Johnson admitted that he was “really hungry” to take on such a challenging and emotionally driven role. “I had been very fortunate to have the career that I’ve had over the years and to make the films that I’ve made, but there was just a voice inside of me, a little voice that said, ‘Well, what if I could do more — I want to do more and what does that look like?’” Johnson said.

His co-star, Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s wife, Dawn Staples, and is a close friend of Johnson’s in real life, praised his complete immersion into the character. “One of the most extraordinary things was seeing him completely disappear, like spooky,” she told reporters. “I remember when you walked in as Mark for the first time. It changed the air in the room.” Blunt reportedly played a key role in connecting Johnson with director Benny Safdie after they worked together on the film “Oppenheimer.”

Johnson became emotional during the press conference as he discussed Kerr’s personal struggles, which were chronicled in a 2002 HBO documentary of the same name. With the real Mark Kerr in attendance, Johnson grew teary-eyed as he spoke about the story. “Mark was the greatest fighter in the world at one point, but this film is not even really about fighting — it’s a love story,” Johnson said. “It’s a love story about Mark and Dawn in this relationship… As you know, Mark OD’d twice, and he’s lucky to be alive — and that’s part of why this story is so special.”

Johnson credited both Safdie and Blunt for giving him the confidence to take on such a demanding and vulnerable role, admitting that it can be hard to know what you’re capable of when you’ve been “pigeon-holed.”

“The Smashing Machine” will be released on October 3. The full story from the Venice Film Festival can be read in The Hollywood Reporter.

Nikki Bella Vows WWE Return Is Just Beginning After Paris Loss

Thomas Lowson
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0
Nikki Bella Vows WWE Return Is Just Beginning After Paris Loss

Nikki Bella didn’t leave Paris as the new WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion, but the Hall of Famer is not down and out just yet. Taking to X, Nikki reflected on her match with Becky Lynch. Nikki thanked her ‘Bella Army’ fanbase. While acknowledging that she “fell short,” Nikki vowed that this is “only the beginning” and found beauty that her return has just begun.

Nikki battled Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinenal Title, as the Hall of Famer hoped to capture her first championship in wrestling in a decade. While it was Lynch who left Paris with the gold, Nikki’s comments certainly suggest that things are only just getting started.

Lynch would make herself known later in the show as she would prove crucial in Seth Rollins retaining the World Heavyweight Championship. With Nikki’s return far from over and Lynch set to do more with her husband, it remains to be seen if fans could soon see Bella sharing the screen with the top men of Monday Night Raw.

Nikki Bella Says The WWE Women’s Locker Room Wants Brie Bella Back

Swerve Strickland Back In The Gym After Meniscus Surgery

Thomas Lowson
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0
Swerve Strickland Back In The Gym After Meniscus Surgery

Swerve Strickland is already working out after his recent surgery, proving the adage that you can’t keep a good man down for long. On social media, the former AEW World Champion gave fans a glimpse at his post-surgery workout.

Strickland successfully underwent meniscus surgery on Wednesday, August 27 to address a knee injury that had been affecting him since 2019. There’s no word on when he is expected back in the ring, but in an earlier post, Strickland shared that the surgery had been a success.

Strickland was written off TV at the Forbidden Door pay-per-view in London. After losing his AEW Unified Championship match to Kazuchika Okada, Swerve’s knee was targeted in a post-match beatdown, taking him off of the show.

AEW will now have to go on ahead without Swerve and without Will Ospreay, who is also taking time off for surgery. With Swerve already back in the gym, fans hope that it won’t be long before AEW proves to be Swerve’s house once more.

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CM Punk Slams Insane Behavior As Fans Mob Rhea Ripley

Thomas Lowson
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CM Punk Slams Insane Behavior As Fans Mob Rhea Ripley

Rhea Ripley’s time in Paris will be an experience she likely won’t forget anytime soon, albeit not for good reasons. In a clip that has gone viral, Rhea was mobbed by fans in France, resulting in her struggling to get into a car and carry on with her day.

This videa has once again sparked a discussion about the role of wrestlers in public and the appropriateness of fans wanting to meet them. On X, CM Punk called at these fans as showing an “insane” behavior, and could only imagine how Ripley felt in the moment.

Rhea herself also shared a statement on the matter via X. In it, Ripley hoped that fans remember she is a human being worthy of respect like anybody else, and added that “no means no.”

The topic of fans going too far with wrestlers often comes up, with Saraya recently changing her policy for meeting fans because of an unfortunate incident. Until fans learn to respect boundaries, fans shouldn’t be surprised if more wrestlers become stricter about whether fans can get near them.

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John Cena On Styles Clash: I Had To Say Thank-You To AJ

Thomas Lowson
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John Cena On Styles Clash: I Had To Say Thank-You To AJ

John Cena not only won at WWE Clash in Paris against Logan Paul but did so in ‘Phenomenal’ fashion. In the closing minutes of his showdown with Paul, Cena busted out a Styles Clash, a nod to AJ Styles and his highly-popular feud with the Phenomenal One from 2016.

During the post-show, Cena addressed his use of the Styles Clash. Cena acknowledged that with just a handful of appearances left to his name, the opportunity to share the ring with everyone he wants is narrow.

Cena may not have time to have a feud with AJ Styles once more, but he can pay homage to their past in different ways. For John, using the Styles Clas was a tribute to somebody who gave him one of the best feuds of his career.

“The best way I can say thank you to some of those people who affected my career is to kind of pay homage… doing some stuff that I don’t normally do out there.”

Cena wrapped up his discussion by saying “I gotta shout out AJ,” to the delight of the fans. While a Cena-Styles rematch may not be in the cards in these final few months of John’s in-ring career, the Greatest of All Time will never forget his time working with the Phenomenal One.

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CM Punk Teases AJ Lee After WWE Clash in Paris Loss

Thomas Lowson
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CM Punk Teases AJ Lee After WWE Clash in Paris Loss

CM Punk is ready to bring in some back-up after his loss at WWE Clash in Paris’ main event. During the World Heavyweight Title match, Punk appeared poised to win before he was low-blowed by Becky Lynch. Lynch’s attack would allow for her husband Seth Rollins to get the win and retain the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

Lynch’s attack has had fans excited at the prospect of AJ Lee’s return over a decade after her final match in WWE. After the show, Punk seemed intrigued at a fan’s sign encouraging him to bring his wife back to wrestling.

It’s not just in Paris that Punk has suggested a Lee return. On X, Punk shared a gif of AJ from her WWE days, sending those in the comments into a frenzy about a potential return.

During the Clash in Paris post-show, attention also turned to AJ Lee. Big E suggested that Punk bring in his wife to combat the Rollins/Lynch combo.

“This man CM Punk, he’s got a wife too. I’ve known her to kick some ass. I’m just saying. I’m just saying… Something people have wanted for many, many years.”

Whether AJ Lee returns or not, traction behind the idea of Lee’s return has reportedly never been higher. Whatever comes next, fans will continue to live in hope that AJ’s return is a question of when, not if.

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ESPN Response To Stephanie McMahon Plugging VPN

Thomas Lowson
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ESPN Response To Stephanie McMahon Plugging VPN

Stephanie McMahon’s recent VPN ad read on her What’s Your Story? podcast has stirred some issues with ESPN, it has been reported. According to Fightful Select, “At least one source we spoke to at ESPN ‘wasn’t thrilled’ by the VPN ad read on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast.” While the insider didn’t expect it to become a “major issue,” they acknowledged the awkwardness given WWE’s partnership with ESPN.

The plug came during a mid-show ad break on McMahon’s podcast. Stephanie suggested that fans use a VPN to access international Netflix content. Doing so would allow fans in the U.S. to avoid ESPN’s $30-per-month PLE model in favor of the much more cost-effective alternative provided by Netflix for fans outside the United States.

The new ESPN deal, valued by Logan Paul on SmackDown at $1.6 billion, has already drawn criticism from American viewers. Now, fans in the States must pay for both a Netflix subscription to get access to WWE Raw and other programming, while also paying for ESPN for PLEs.

VPNs should help fans in the U.S. save money, albeit at the cost of WWE’s prtners at ESPN. The VPN suggestion didn’t sit well with at least one ESPN contact, and time will tell if McMahon delivers another plug like it.

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Report: “More Traction” Than Ever On A Potential AJ Lee WWE Return

Andrew Ravens
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Report: “More Traction” Than Ever On A Potential AJ Lee WWE Return

The finish to the main event of the WWE Clash in Paris premium live event has added fuel to the fire of speculation surrounding a potential in-ring return for former Divas Champion, AJ Lee. A new report from Fightful Select has provided backstage details on the situation, noting that there is “more traction on it of late than in previous years.”

The main event of the show saw Seth Rollins retain his World Heavyweight Championship in a fatal four-way match. The finish came when Becky Lynch, Rollins’s wife, interfered and delivered a low blow to CM Punk, allowing Rollins to get the win. The angle immediately led to fan speculation about a potential mixed tag team match pitting Rollins and Lynch against Punk and his wife, AJ Lee.

According to the Fightful Select report, the speculation is not just coming from the fans. “WWE sources have indicated that AJ Lee’s name has been brought up in numerous pitches internally of late,” the report states. It was also noted that some of those pitches “weren’t quite shut down like they used to be.”

While the report makes it clear that a return is not confirmed, the interference from Lynch at Clash in Paris has WWE sources “hopeful that the pitches they’ve been hearing about were related to that.”

The report also notes that CM Punk recently did an ode to his wife at a European live event by skipping around the ring in her signature style. It was also mentioned that when she worked for WOW Women of Wrestling, she was not interested in an in-ring role. However, a WWE higher-up is reportedly not concerned about her long layoff, noting that she has stayed in great shape and that her husband also made a successful return after a long time away from the ring.

AJ Lee has been effectively retired from the ring for over a decade, with her last match taking place in March 2015. The increased “traction” on the idea of her return, combined with the on-screen storyline, has made her potential comeback one of the most talked-about stories in wrestling.

Seth Rollins Retains At Clash in Paris, Becky Lynch Screws CM Punk

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Seth Rollins Retains At Clash in Paris, Becky Lynch Screws CM Punk

The Architect remains on top as Seth Rollins successfully defended the World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Clash in Paris. Against CM Punk, Jey Uso, and LA Knight, Rollins was able to walk away from the La Défense Arena still with the gold.

The match was a back-and-forth affair and in the closing moments, CM Punk appeared poised to regain the gold. That was until a masked figure low-blowed Punk during his second GTS. The masked figure would unmask herself to be Becky Lynch, and Rollns would capitalize on his wife’s involvement to get the win.

You can check out some highlights from the match below:

The match saw Rollins rekindle some past rivalries, including his isssues with CM Punk and the feud with LA Knight that saw him fake a knee injury. Rollins captured the title at SummerSlam by cashing in Money in the Bank for the second time in his career, ending the brief reign of Punk.

Dispatching of three of his top challengers, it remans to be seen what’s next for the World Heavyweight Champion and his allies. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from WWE Clash in Paris.

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