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Inside the Hardy Compound: Wrestling’s Iconic Cinematic Battleground

Michael Reichlin
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Inside the Hardy Compound: Wrestling’s Iconic Cinematic Battleground

The Hardy Compound in Cameron, North Carolina, is more than just Matt Hardy’s family estate—it’s a legendary site in professional wrestling known for redefining how matches are presented.

As the central location for the “Broken Universe,” the Compound transformed wrestling storytelling through a blend of fantasy, comedy, and theatrics.

The Rise of Cinematic Wrestling

Cinematic wrestling, characterized by pre-taped, story-driven segments with high production value, gained mainstream popularity in 2016 with The Final Deletion.

Airing on Impact Wrestling, the match featured “Broken” Matt Hardy facing Jeff Hardy, also known as Brother Nero, in a bizarre battle complete with fireworks, drones, and the now-famous “Lake of Reincarnation.” The segment’s viral success laid the foundation for a new genre within wrestling.

Key Characters and Lore

Matt Hardy’s “Broken” persona emerged after a fictional transformation, claiming possession by a mystical force called ZENITH.

Jeff Hardy became Brother Nero, both a rival and ally throughout the saga. Their narratives frequently centered on the supernatural, embracing the absurd to explore identity, legacy, and rebirth.

The Lake of Reincarnation

This mystical pond, located on the property, became a storytelling device used to alter or “reincarnate” characters. Wrestlers submerged in the lake often re-emerged with new gimmicks or personas, adding layers of surrealism to each match.

Pivotal Matches and Segments

  • The Final Deletion (2016): The debut cinematic match, featuring wild stunts and visual effects.
  • Delete or Decay (2016): A dramatic defense of the Compound against the Decay faction.
  • Tag Team Apocalypto (2016): A chaotic, multi-team battle sprawling across the estate.
  • The Great War (2016): A pay-per-view clash at Bound for Glory with Decay.
  • Ultimate Deletion (2018): A WWE adaptation with Bray Wyatt, continuing the Compound’s legacy.

Lasting Influence on Wrestling

The creative success of the Hardy Compound segments inspired similar approaches across the industry. WWE’s Ultimate Deletion and WrestleMania 36’s Boneyard Match drew direct influence from the style. The Compound proved especially effective during the pandemic era, when traditional live events were limited.

Continued Relevance in Modern Wrestling

The Hardy Compound remains an active narrative setting, most recently featured in 2024 during a storyline involving The System faction. Its ongoing use highlights its significance as a place where reality and fiction blur, pushing the boundaries of traditional wrestling presentation.

The Rock Responds to Backlash from Dave LaGreca After Pat McAfee Interview

Michael Reichlin
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The Rock Responds to Backlash from Dave LaGreca After Pat McAfee Interview

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has issued a direct response to criticism from Busted Open Radio host Dave LaGreca following his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

Johnson’s absence from WrestleMania 41 sparked widespread fan backlash, with many arguing it negatively impacted the main event featuring Cody Rhodes and John Cena. During his appearance on McAfee’s show, Johnson explained his decision to step away from the storyline, saying he wanted Cena to have his moment on the grand stage.

The comments didn’t sit well with everyone. Dave LaGreca voiced strong disapproval, joining fans in criticizing both Rock’s absence and his statements during the interview.

The Rock Responds

In response, Johnson addressed LaGreca and the Busted Open team on Instagram.

“Hi Dave, the business is a complete work. Always has been, always will be. Every aspect of it. Every match. Every interview,” Johnson wrote.

Rock Responds to LaGreca

He then invited LaGreca to take part in creative discussions alongside himself, Cody Rhodes, John Cena, and Brian Gewirtz to gain deeper insight into the business.

“Until then, stop ranting, it’s not healthy my friend. Enjoy the show,” he added, ending with a playful message: “Ps, tell Bubba I have Grand Marnier and hush puppies for all of us.”

Triple H also had some pushback for fans who weren’t satisfied with the booking of WrestleMania 41:

Triple H Has Two Words For Fans Who Hated WrestleMania 41

TNA Impact Preview (April 24, 2025)

Michael Reichlin
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TNA Impact Preview (April 24, 2025)

Tonight’s episode of TNA iMPACT! is the final stop before Sunday’s TNA Rebellion pay-per-view. The show airs live from the iMPACT Zone in Orlando, Florida, at 8/7c on AXS TV in the US, Sportsnet 360 in Canada, and TNA+ worldwide

Matches and Segments

Joe Hendry & Elijah vs. Frankie Kazarian & Ethan Page (NXT)

TNA World Champion Joe Hendry teams with Elijah to face his Rebellion challengers, Frankie Kazarian and NXT’s Ethan Page. Hendry’s recent shoulder injury and the egos involved make this a volatile main event, with momentum for the title match at stake.

Moose & JDC vs. Trey Miguel & Ace Austin

X-Division Champion Moose joins forces with System enforcer JDC to take on Trey Miguel and Ace Austin. Both teams are looking to gain the upper hand as Rebellion approaches, with the challengers aiming to disrupt The System’s dominance.

Rosemary vs. Jacy Jayne (with Fallon Henley & Jazmyn Nyx)

After a mist-assisted win last week, Rosemary faces NXT’s Jacy Jayne, who will have backup at ringside from Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyx. This singles contest continues the cross-promotional rivalry between TNA and NXT’s Fatal Influence.

Tessa Blanchard in Action

Tessa Blanchard returns to the ring for a tune-up match ahead of her Knockouts World Title challenge against Masha Slamovich at Rebellion. This bout is seen as her final proving ground before the biggest Knockouts showdown of the year.

Hardy Compound Segment: Matt & Jeff Hardy Invite The Nemeth Brothers

Following weeks of taunts and a brutal assault at Sacrifice, the Nemeth brothers (Nic and Ryan) have been summoned to the legendary Hardy Compound. This segment promises to escalate the feud as the Hardys seek retribution and defend their legacy as TNA Tag Team Champions.

Mike Santana Appearance

Santana, coming off a wild brawl at Unbreakable, will address the crowd ahead of his Falls Count Anywhere match with Mustafa Ali at Rebellion. Expect heated words as their rivalry reaches a boiling point.

Bobby Lashley Recalls Worst Bump of His Career

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Bobby Lashley Recalls Worst Bump of His Career

Bobby Lashley has revealed which WWE superstar gave him the worst bump of his career.

The Hurt Syndicate recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet. They talked about things such as potentially expanding the group, if MVP is retired from in-ring action, the possibility of their kids entering the business, and more.

When asked about the worst bumps they have ever taken, Bobby Lashley recalled a match with Big E. He explained that he got slammed into the stairs and only realized how bad it looked when he watched the replay later on:

“One time when Big E slammed me into the stairs. I don’t know what even happened. The corner of the stairs, the metal stairs, he picked me up and he slammed me on it.

And it was one of those ones where I thought when I hit it and I laid down that ground, I was like, am I good? I’m still okay. But when I watched it back, and I have it on my Instagram, it’s horrible. It looked a lot worse than it was. So thank God I was okay afterwards. I wasn’t hurt at all, but it looks nasty.”

I Thought Everything Was Broke: Shelton Benjamin

Shelton Benjamin also answered the question, recalling an indie show in Mexico after his first run with WWE. The ring was double-stacked, and he fell down hard on the concrete when he tried to roll out of it during a spot. Per the Gold Standard, it was one of the most painful experiences of his life, and he would never wrestle in such a setting again:

“This is Mexico. They had a ring and it was like double-stacked. So it was the height of a ring on top of a ring. At some point during the match, I took a bump where I was supposed to just roll out to the floor, and I rolled, and I forgot [the height].

I came down and splat on the concrete. It was one of the most painful experiences of my life, I thought everything was broke. So I was like, I will never wrestle in one of these things again.”

Apart from this, Shelton Benjamin also talked about Max Caster saying that he was not welcomed in AEW when the Hurt Syndicate had not reformed in the company. Benjamin revealed a backstage interaction with Caster which confirmed his suspicion. You can check out his remarks on the matter here.

Shelton Benjamin Talks Max Caster’s Controversial Comments, Last Big Goal In Wrestling

Anutosh Bajpai
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Shelton Benjamin Talks Max Caster’s Controversial Comments, Last Big Goal In Wrestling

Shelton Benjamin says Max Caster is an idiot.

The Gold Standard was expected to join AEW when he was released from his WWE contract in 2023. Max Caster, however, made headlines by claiming that he didn’t want the former champion in his company. He explained that the spot should go to him or someone else who is already on the roster.

In a new interview with Chris Van Vliet, Shelton addressed Caster’s previous remarks. Benjamin, who made his AEW debut in October last year, noted that he had a chat with Max which confirmed his suspicion:

“We’ve spoken, and pretty much what I suspected was true, Max is an idiot. He was poking the bear but then the bear showed up and he decided, okay, maybe I should stop poking. So long story short, it’s my spot now.”

Top of The List: Shelton Benjamin

Shelton Benjamin also talked about the one goal he still has in wrestling, saying that he wants a world title run. While all Hurt Syndicate members have indicated multiple times that it’s the last chapter of their careers, Benjamin noted that he is still putting all his effort into his performances:

“I’m going to just say yes. I definitely still want a world title. If you watch my performances, I’m not performing like a guy who wants to just retire and ride off into the sunset.

While I definitely want to help elevate other talent, because that’s a big part of why we’re here, I still have goals. Being a World Champion in a prominent company is definitely on top of that list.”

Shelton Benjamin noted that he has held a world title in smaller promotions before but he is not sure it counts the same. Either way, he still wants a world title run in a major promotion and the 49-year-old is working every day to keep his dream alive.

TNA Star Confirms Free Agency In Emotional Post

Anutosh Bajpai
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TNA Star Confirms Free Agency In Emotional Post

A TNA star is now a free agent.

It was reported earlier this week that former Dark Order member Alan Angels had become a free agent again. This came after his contract with the Anthem owned promotion expired at the start of new year.

The 27-year-old confirmed this news on X, writing an emotional statement. Angles noted that being forced to leave TNA is a big hit for him since he has been a fan of the company for many years:

The thing about wrestling is, no matter how much you love it, it doesn’t have to love you back. Wrestling doesn’t owe anyone anything. Not going to lie, this is a big hit to me. I love TNA. It was an absolute dream to wrestle there under a brand that I have watched since I was little.”

The young star confirmed that he won’t be leaving the business and instead he’ll be looking for a new start. Though he admitted that the path to success is not clear to him and he has no idea about his next destination.

Trained by AR Fox, Alan Angels made his debut in the wrestling world in 2016 and he was signed by AEW in 2020. He was recruited into the Dark Order as Number 5 after a few early losses. 5 left the group in 2021, after unsuccessfully challenging Evil Uno over the leadership of the faction.

Angles joined the TNA roster in November 2022 after his AEW release. He was part of the Violent by Design faction in the company. Alan even won an Ultimate X match to earn the right to challenge for the X Division title but failed to capture the belt.

‘Super Validating’: Dominik Mysterio Proud of WrestleMania 41 Match

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
‘Super Validating’: Dominik Mysterio Proud of WrestleMania 41 Match

Dominik Mysterio is proud of himself.

The young wrestling veteran wrestled in one of the biggest matches of his career at WrestleMania 41. It wasn’t Dom’s first appearance at the Show of Shows, but it was the first time he was challenging for a singles title at the event.

The Judgment Day star acknowledged the importance of this in an interview with CBS Sports over the weekend. He called the opportunity ‘super validating’ after having worked hard on his character and in-ring work since his 2020 WWE debut:

“It’s super validating. The fact that it’s my first Mania competing for a singles title. It’s also my first Mania without my deadbeat dad anywhere around me. It’s definitely an accomplishment for me.”

Dominik Mysterio went on to win the Intercontinental Championship at the PPV. He seemed genuinely surprised at the positive reception of fans, and an overjoyed Mysterio had an extended celebration after the match.

A number of wrestling veteran including Triple H and John Cena have given Prison Dom his flowers since then, discussing his amazing transformation since first emerging on the WWE horizon.

Even Rey Mysterio, the father of the 28-year-old, who suffered a storyline betrayal at the hands of Dirty Dom, was not able to hide his true feelings on his son’s success. You can check out what the WWE Hall of Famer had to say about Dom’s progression here.

Joe Hendry Reveals How WrestleMania 41 Match Came About

Anutosh Bajpai
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Joe Hendry Reveals How WrestleMania 41 Match Came About

Joe Hendry has revealed how he found out about his WrestleMania 41 match.

Randy Orton was left off of the Mania card after his scheduled opponent Kevin Owens had to pull out of the bout due to a neck injury. Still determined to be at the Show of Shows, The Viper decided that he’ll hold an open challenge, and it was answered by none other than the current TNA World Champion.

The viral star had an interview with Ariel Helwani after the PPV to discuss his opponent. While reports suggest that WWE had started considering Hendry as soon as KO made the announcement, the TNA star revealed that he only found out about it the week before the match:

“So, I was in the airport, and I got a text from Triple H saying, ‘can you talk?’ And you know, I was at WWE World. I was scheduled to be there, to be signing things. I thought, you know, maybe something to the effect of, you know, they’ve got the Slammies, or it might be like, you know, doing a promo at WWE World.”

Joe Hendry noted that he was not expecting to make his WrestleMania debut even when Triple H got on the call with him. He was surprised when the match was brought up:

“So, I’m kind of expecting that’s what the call is going to be. And Triple H says, ‘Listen, I’m sure you’re aware that Randy needs an opponent.’ And, yeah, that threw me off completely. I was in a state of shock, but I just, you know, I knew there was a job to be done.”

The WrestleMania bout wasn’t the only WWE appearance for Joe Hendry in the past week. He returned to NXT on Tuesday and teased a champion vs. champion match. You can check out more about it here.

Women’s Owen Hart Cup Finals Set For AEW Double Or Nothing

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Women’s Owen Hart Cup Finals Set For AEW Double Or Nothing

One of the finals for the Owen Hart Cup Tournament has been set.

The TBS Champion Mercedes Mone had advanced to the finals of the tournament during the April 16, Spring BreakThru episode of Dynamite. She defeated ROH Women’s Champion Athena in the first semi final.

The second semi-final took place on tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite from Lakefront Arena in New Orleans. The match, which was the main event of the show, saw Jamie Hayter taking on Kris Statlander.

Both women put their best effort to get to the finals. The ending of the match saw Statlander hitting a 450 splash and going for the pin, but Hayter kicked out at the very last second.

Jamie then countered a dive from Kris with an elbow and hooked her opponent. Jamie Hayter finally delivered a Hayterade and pinned Statlander for the win. Mercedes Mone came out to confront her new opponent and the show went off air with the two staring each other down.

Will Ospreay has already made his way into the finals on the Men’s side, while Kyle Fletcher and “Hangman” Adam Page are set to battle for the other spot soon.

Both the Owen finals will be taking place at the Double or Nothing PPV from Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on May 25.

Karrion Kross Appreciates Fans Finally Noticing His WWE Main Roster Work

Thomas Lowson
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0
Karrion Kross Appreciates Fans Finally Noticing His WWE Main Roster Work

Karrion Kross returned to WWE in 2022, but fans have noticed a serious shift in momentum for the former NXT Champion over the past year or so. On X, Kross shared a video of his time in Las Vegas for WrestleMania 41. After joking with a passerby that he’s a stripper by the name of Roman Reigns, Kross spoke about how fans have grown more appreciative of him as of late.

“People telling me how happy they were with the AJ [Styles] match. And the Bloodsport match. They liked the little bits and things we did on the SmackDown [Andre the Giant Memorial] Battle Royal.”

Kross is immensely grateful that fans have rallied behind him over the past year, feeling it is the first time that his efforts on the main roster have truly been appreciated. While Kross saw plenty of success in WWE NXT, he’s ready for fans to focus on the here and now.

“I thought that, when I was coming out here, all I was going to hear about was ‘I loved your run on NXT.’ Because that’s all I would run into for the last two and a half years.”

Kross said its hard to hear from fans that their fondest memories of him came when he had the “strap” in 2021, seeing it as an indictment of the past four years. Whether more gold is in Kross’ future, that remains to be seen, but the Raw Superstar is relishing fans appreciating his more recent efforts on WWE TV.

Scarlett Teases Big Change for Herself and Karrion Kross After Viral Promo

Bianca Belair Reveals WWE Tryout Footage, Talks Battling Imposter Syndrome

Thomas Lowson
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Bianca Belair Reveals WWE Tryout Footage, Talks Battling Imposter Syndrome

Bianca Belair is a bonafide star in WWE but like every wrestler, there was a time when the EST was a brand-new face in the wrestling world. On X, Belair shared footage of her first WWE tryout, and detailed how inexperienced she was at the time.

“I had no idea how to take a bump, I didn’t even know what a “bump” was let alone what a “promo” was… I was so nervous you can hear the quiver in my voice.”

What Belair did know was how to be herself, and credited Mark Henry for getting her the opportunity. Belair’s rose-themed outfit came from a crossfit competiton she’d competed in. The Raw Superstar openly revealed that at the time, she not only felt like she didn’t belong, but feared she was taking a spot from a more deserving woman.

“I always felt like I was stealing someone else’s dream so I threw myself whole heartedly into this. I dealt with imposter syndrome for A LONG time. I always felt like I had something to prove.”

Now, Belair has more than proven herself in the wrestling world and is one of the most popular women in WWE in recent years. Ending with a passionate plea for fans to “Dream big, do thing you didn’t even think were meant for you.” Today, Belair’s battles with imposter syndrome are a thing of the past though she’ll never forget her early fears when joining the wrestling world.

Rhea Ripley Addresses Criticism Of WrestleMania 41 Match

Triple H Has Two Words For Fans Who Hated WrestleMania 41

Thomas Lowson
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Triple H Has Two Words For Fans Who Hated WrestleMania 41

If you didn’t enjoy WrestleMania 41, Triple H has two words for you, and it’s not the two words commonly associated with the DX member. In leaked footage shared from the Roast of WrestleMania with Tony Hinchcliffe, WWE’s Chief Content Officer shared his take on those criticizing this year’s two-nighr Showcase of the Immortals.

Triple H’s comments not only reflect the envelope-pushing nature of the roast, but also the response many fans have had to WrestleMania 41. Many fans believe that the show failed to deliver, especially in the main event between Cody Rhodes and John Cena. Cena captured his 17th WWE World Championship at WrestleMania 41: Sunday, ending the 378-day reign of the American Nightmare. But with a relatively mundane match and an appearance from Travis Scott but not The Rock, many fans feel this match should have been so much more.

Whether fan loved or hated WrestleMania, they’ll soon get to learn more about the show thanks to the upcoming WWE: Unreal documentary series coming to Netflix.

Nia Jax & Paul Heyman Face Backlash Following WrestleMania Roast

FTR Gets New Manager & Moniker On Dynamite

Anutosh Bajpai
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FTR Gets New Manager & Moniker On Dynamite

FTR has found a new manager.

The duo of Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood turned heel, taking out Cope during the Dynasty PPV. The former champions then terrorized Tony Schiavone and attacked Daniel Garcia, Daddy Magic, and Cool Hand Ang on the following Collision.

The tag team returned to AEW programming on this week’s Dynamite, after having been suspended for a week for their recent actions.

FTR’s entrance was followed by a returning Stokely Hathaway. The former manager of Kris Statlander had been missing from AEW programming since the two parted ways following the 2024 All Out PPV.

FTR: Living Legend Killers

Hathaway introduced himself as the new agent of FTR and said that he’s getting their suspension expunged from the record, mentioning how people like Jon Moxley, Hangman Page and Ricochet have not been punished for their actions.

The Rock ‘n Roll Express had been at the ringside for tonight’s show, and Dax Harwood then invited them into the ring. Harwood first pretended to respect them but later started insulting the legendary tag team.

Ricky Morton stepped in when he thought FTR had gone too far. Stokely then came forward and said that he has a new shirt they will like. The shirt had the FTR logo on it with a new moniker ‘Living Legend Killers’ written underneath.

FTR proceeded to attack the Rock ‘n Roll Express and take the legends out. The Paragon then came out, leading to Dax and Cash retreating to end the segment.

Logan Paul Says Steve Austin Refused $1 Million PRIME Costume Deal

Thomas Lowson
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Logan Paul Says Steve Austin Refused $1 Million PRIME Costume Deal

Logan Paul is serious when it comes to promoting his PRIME brand, and wasn’t afraid to offer ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin big money to sell the beverage. While speaking on the Impaulsive podcast, Logan shared that he and his team once made a huge offer to the Rattlesnake to done the Prime bottle costume before the Texas Rattlesnake said no.

“We offered Steve a million dollars to be in the Prime bottle. He didn’t do it. Oh, he’s not the guy. I don’t care what number it is—he’s not getting in that bottle.”

Appearances by Austin are a rarity in WWE, and fans will seemingly never see him parade around in the blue bottle worn by the likes of KSI and IShowSpeed. Paul believes that WWE fans would never have forgiven Steve if he’d gotten inside the suit.

“I don’t think he even considered it for a second. The WWE Universe would kill him. Imagine it—he face-revealed the Prime bottle.”

Paul hasn’t entirely given up hope, saying that Austin could don the bottle “maybe one year.” For now, don’t expect to see the wrestling icon trading in his patented Steveweisers and cans of whoop-ass for a bottle of Paul’s beverage.

Logan Paul Claims To Be The Best After WrestleMania Win

Ric Flair Pays Tribute To Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael After Passing

Thomas Lowson
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Ric Flair Pays Tribute To Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael After Passing

Steve McMichael, known to many as Mongo, has died at the age of 67 after a lengthy battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. McMichael was diagnosed in 2021 and had eben under hospice care before passing away surrounded by family and loved ones.

On X, Ric Flair paid tribute to McMichael, who was once part of the legendary four horsemen. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer called Mongo “My best friend through it all” and “an amaing athlete and human being.”

Arn Andersion, another member of the four horsemen, also paid tribute to Mongo, calling him “a beast on the football field” and a “real man’s man.” Anderson highlighted that McMichael walked into the pro wrestling with little to no formal training, yet proved to be a natural between the ropes.

McMichael proved himself as a star in both football and wrestling and now his battle has come to an end. We here at SEScoops would like to offer our condolences to those who knew Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael at this sad time.

WWE Legend Ric Flair Opens Up About Anxiety and Mental Health Struggles

Jon Moxley Announced For Next AEW Title Defence After Chaotic Dynamite Segment

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Jon Moxley Announced For Next AEW Title Defence After Chaotic Dynamite Segment

Jon Moxley has found his next challenger after a wild segment on this week’s episode of Dynamite from the Lakefront Arena in New Orleans.

Master P had been announced to make an appearance on the Wednesday night show and the music star opened the episode. He introduced the new Trios Champions the Opps, who defeated the Death Riders to win the title during the April 16 Dynamite this month.

Samoa Joe grabbed the mic and put over Master P. As he started discussing his title win, however, Death Riders music hit, and Marina Shafir was shown entering through the crowd. The rest of the Death Riders then attacked the Opps.

Moxley eyed P but the guest star did not back down and Samoa Joe was then able to lock the AEW World Champion in the Coquina Clutch.

Master P got on the mic and told Joe to put Mox to sleep. Chaos ensued after this as The Elite, Swerve Strickland and Kenny Omega all made an appearance, working against each other. Samoa Joe then declared that if Moxley wants him, then he’ll get him, and he’s going to take the AEW title back.

AEW later confirmed that Joe will indeed be the next challenger for Jon Moxley’s World title and the match will take place at the upcoming Dynamite Beach Break special on May 14.

WWE Legend Ric Flair Opens Up About Anxiety and Mental Health Struggles

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Legend Ric Flair Opens Up About Anxiety and Mental Health Struggles

Ric Flair has opened up about his long-hidden struggle with agoraphobia, revealing on Busted Open’s Master Class that the anxiety disorder significantly impacted his WWE career.

Flair described agoraphobia as a debilitating fear that sometimes made it impossible for him to leave his house or drive to the airport for work. At its peak, the condition prevented him from performing basic daily tasks and interfered with his ability to meet wrestling commitments.

The WWE Hall of Famer said these struggles were especially intense during the 1990s, a period marked by constant travel, heavy drinking, and sleep deprivation. He recalled experiencing numbness in his hands during matches—an anxiety-driven symptom he now attributes to his mental health challenges.

Throughout his career, Flair estimates he suffered as many as 17 nervous breakdowns. Despite maintaining a strict fitness routine, he acknowledged that overtraining may have worsened his anxiety. Initially relying on medications like Xanax, he later switched to cannabis edibles to manage his symptoms more effectively.

Flair’s candid remarks provide a rare insight into the psychological pressures of life in professional wrestling. By speaking out, he underscores the importance of addressing mental health—even among those who appear larger than life in the ring.

Steve McMichael Dies at 67: Bears Legend and WCW Star Remembered

Michael Reichlin
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Steve McMichael Dies at 67: Bears Legend and WCW Star Remembered

Steve “Mongo” McMichael, the Hall of Fame defensive tackle and beloved Chicago Bears figure, died on Wednesday at age 67 after a prolonged battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Diagnosed in 2021, McMichael had been under hospice care and passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

A cornerstone of the Bears’ dominant 1985 Super Bowl-winning defense, McMichael played 13 seasons in Chicago, earning two All-Pro honors and setting a team record with 191 consecutive games played. His 92.5 career sacks rank second in franchise history, behind only Richard Dent. In 2024, McMichael was formally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s greats.

Beyond his NFL achievements, McMichael transitioned into professional wrestling following his retirement in 1994. He made his debut at WrestleMania XI in 1995, appearing in Lawrence Taylor’s corner during the main event. Later that year, he joined WCW, first as a commentator on Monday Nitro and then as a full-time wrestler by 1996.

Managed by his then-wife Debra, McMichael quickly found success, capturing the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship in 1997 and feuding with stars like Jeff Jarrett. His most memorable run came as a member of the Four Horsemen alongside Ric Flair, Chris Benoit, and Dean Malenko. His tenure included high-stakes rivalries with the nWo, a storyline betrayal by Curt Hennig, and intense showdowns with fellow NFL alumni such as Kevin Greene and Reggie White. A brutal feud with Goldberg in 1997 added further intrigue, featuring McMichael reclaiming his stolen Super Bowl ring in dramatic fashion.

After leaving wrestling in 1999, McMichael remained connected to sports and entertainment, coaching the Chicago Slaughter and hosting local radio shows. In 2008, he made a one-time appearance as a guest referee at TNA’s Bound For Glory.

News of McMichael’s death was shared by Jarrett Payton, son of the late Walter Payton, who had served as the family spokesperson throughout his health battle. The loss has reverberated throughout the NFL and pro wrestling communities, with tributes highlighting his unmatched toughness, charisma, and enduring influence in both sports.

McMichael’s legacy spans generations—as a ferocious competitor on the gridiron and an unforgettable personality in the squared circle.

Macho Man’s Brother Reveals Family Secrets: The Untold Bond of Randy Savage

Thomas Lowson
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Macho Man’s Brother Reveals Family Secrets: The Untold Bond of Randy Savage

‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage captivated fans for decades, but nobody knew him quite like his brother Lanny Poffo. In footage shared by Dark Side of the Ring: Unheard, Poffo, also known to wrestling enthusiasts as The Genius, revealed a personal side of the Macho Man that only he experienced.

“Growing up with Randy it was like he was my second father. He was in charge of discipline, he could lecture… But he did it in such a way that I felt good about myself.”

Randy served as a second father to Lanny because their biological father, Angelo Poffo, was a professional wrestler who frequently traveled throughout the United States. Years later, Lanny would apply what he’d learned from both his father figures when he and his ex-wife welcomed their daughter Meghan into the world.

Like many wrestlers’ sons, Randy and Lanny developed a complicated relationship with Angelo. In the recording, Poffo recounted the day he and Randy buried their father in March 2010, and a poignant conversation the brothers shared about who had been the better son.

“Randy got drunk after the funeral and said ‘You were a better son than I was.’ I said ‘I don’t think I was.’ He said ‘Oh yeah you were.’ I said ‘Look what you did for our dad. You gave him that high-end hospital toilet seat and that bed that go, you know all that with your credit card, you did all that. And when they were younger you sent them on first-class trips to Israel, Japan, Hawaii, every place in Europe until they begged you ‘Please stop sending us places, we’re tired.’ And I said ‘You were a better son than I was.'”

“[Randy said] ‘No, you’re a better son because no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t get that battle royal for dad.'”

The battle royal in question was the 1987 WWE Legends Battle Royal, an event that Angelo Poffo was not selected to participate in. Despite all his financial and career achievements—successes Randy ensured his father witnessed—Savage considered his inability to secure his father’s place in the match a profound personal failure.

Lanny Poffo passed away in February 2023, nearly eight years after inducting his late brother into the WWE Hall of Fame. Today, both brothers are fondly remembered by wrestling enthusiasts for their distinctive, though markedly different, personas.

Macho Madness: Auction of Randy Savage Ring-Worn Gear Grosses Nearly $200K

Tony Khan Hopeful Bryan Danielson Will Wrestle Again

Thomas Lowson
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Tony Khan Hopeful Bryan Danielson Will Wrestle Again

Bryan Danielson hasn’t wrestled since October’s WrestleDream pay-per-view, leading some fans to speculate the former World Champion’s career might be over. Speaking on the Way of the Blade podcast, however, Tony Khan expressed optimism that fans haven’t seen the last of the American Dragon.

“He’s never said he’s done for good, and I hope that there’s some possibility he will be able to return.”

Khan explained that Danielson remains hands-on with AEW business, despite his absence from television programming. Calling Bryan a “great leader in AEW,” Khan emphasized that he maintains near-daily contact with the former AEW World Champion.

Though Khan would welcome Danielson’s return to the ring, he acknowledges this decision rests solely with Danielson himself. Khan recognizes that nothing done in the name of his company is worth someone risking their life for.

“I don’t want to have any career or life threatening moments in AEW… These are incredible chances and risks that the wrestlers take.”

Whether Bryan Danielson wrestles again remains to be seen, but Khan won’t pressure him into making an in-ring return. Whether it’s between the ropes or behind the scenes, the veteran wrestler continues to be an integral part of All Elite Wrestling.

Bryan Danielson Reveals His Son’s Favorite Wrestler

How Randy Savage Found His Iconic Voice & Promo Style

Thomas Lowson
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How Randy Savage Found His Iconic Voice & Promo Style

‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage is a true icon of wrestling with his instantly recognizable voice and personality being a favorite among fans to this day. In new footage shared by Dark Side of the Ring: Unheard, Savage’s brother Lanny Poffo revealed fascinating insights into how the legendary character fans know and love came to be.

“He didn’t always have that voice, I think it came from marijuana and yelling and kind of got worse as time went on.”

Though now remembered as one of wrestling’s greatest talkers, Savage initially struggled with interviews. According to Lanny, Randy’s anxiety was so severe he would sometimes experience panic attacks before speaking on camera.

“He had some type of anxiety attacks that he couldn’t catch his breath and he felt insecure and he couldn’t think of anything. The greatest interview in the world was not always that way. He came to me with his hat in his hand and said that I was a great interview, could I help him.”

The solution came from an unlikely source – a television commercial featuring wrestler Pampero Firpo. Lanny suggested Randy study Firpo’s unique Armenian-Argentine accent, which became the foundation for the Macho Man’s distinctive delivery.

“I said ‘Why don’t you read that line to me?’ And he says ‘You are watching the number one station in Hawaii.’ I said ‘I think that’s it’ and he spent the next three months in the bathroom mirror practicing.”

Randy’s dedication to mastering this new persona was remarkable. “He went from the worst to the first, from the zero to the hero,” Lanny explained. This transformation didn’t happen overnight – it took months of practice, with Randy spending hours perfecting his delivery in front of the mirror.

The results would change wrestling history. Savage’s iconic “Ohhh yeah!” catchphrase and intense interview style became his trademark, inspiring countless impressions and remaining embedded in pop culture decades after his untimely passing in 2011.

Watch the Macho Man Randy Savage Super Bowl Commercial for Bosch

Booker T Says He Didn’t Fall Asleep At WWE Hall of Fame, Others Did

Thomas Lowson
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Booker T Says He Didn’t Fall Asleep At WWE Hall of Fame, Others Did

The 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony celebrated wrestling’s all-time greats, but eagle-eyed fans may have spotted Booker T in the crowd, seemingly asleep. On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker firmly rejected claims that he dozed off during Michelle McCool’s speech.

“You could tell my head was straight up. It wasn’t tilted to the left or right. It was down because it was a somber moment.”

Booker T’s Denial

Booker recently claimed that he was praying at the Hall of Fame, seeing the humor in the viral photo. Not only did he vehemently deny nodding off, but he also pointed out that certain WWE Superstars were the ones who couldn’t keep their eyes open.

“Logan Paul was asleep. I’m gonna tell you that right now, Logan was out. But there were several people that were asleep.”

On the post-WrestleMania edition of WWE NXT, when Vic Joseph teased him about allegedly falling asleep, Booker maintained he was praying. Whether it was a prayer or a brief nap, the Hall of Famer will surely remember to keep his eyes open at next year’s ceremony.

Nia Jax & Paul Heyman Face Backlash Following WrestleMania Roast

Thomas Lowson
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Nia Jax & Paul Heyman Face Backlash Following WrestleMania Roast

WWE’s first-ever Roast of WrestleMania promised to be hilarious and outrageous, but it appears some of the material at the event went too far for some viewers. Nia Jax and Paul Heyman, in particular, have drawn the ire of fans.

Nia Jax

Jax’s appearance at the roast included her making light of allegations that she has injured women in the ring. According to one Reddit user who was in attendance, Jax “in no uncertain terms literally told Charlotte to go f*** herself.”

Jax also joked that Charlotte would be better off at home worrying about her three divorces rather than being in attendance.

These comments have led to a backlash against her online, as fans believe what she said crossed a line. Charlotte’s divorce from Andrade was only recently made public knowledge, resulting in the ‘Queen’ claiming she had “failed again.”

Paul Heyman

Paul Heyman, another individual known for speaking his mind, also has fans complaining online. In footage circulating online, Heyman can be heard making scathing jokes about Puerto Rico, echoing comments from roast host Tony Hinchcliffe.

Heyman also made ‘coming out of the closet’ jokes that have irked fans, as well as jokes about minors being forcibly married.

Heyman also took aim at Freddie Prinze Jr., calling the actor/former WWE writer a “f***ing nobody.” Heyman mocked Prinze’s desire to form his own wrestling promotion, claiming Prinze knows nothing about the wrestling business.

This year’s roast was the first of its kind, but some are now wondering if the event will return in 2026 for WrestleMania 42.

AEW’s HOOK Gets Role In ‘MONEY TALK$’ Short Film

Andrew Ravens
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AEW’s HOOK Gets Role In ‘MONEY TALK$’ Short Film

AEW star HOOK is getting a chance to be featured on the big screen, having landed his first-ever acting role. 

HOOK will appear in a short film titled “MONEY TALK$.” The news was announced on Wednesday, and the film will have its world premiere at the upcoming Tribeca Film Festival.

The former FTW Champion and current member of The Opps is credited as a “Mystery Man” on the film’s IMDB page. A promotional photo for the film shows HOOK holding a handgun and shouting. 

It’s directed by Tony Mucci, who has a background in making music videos but will make his movie directing debut with the upcoming title. The Tribeca Film Festival will return to New York City from June 4 to 15 this year. 

The exact date of the movie’s premiere isn’t known yet. The movie follows “The Adventure of a $100 Dollar Bill in 1981 NYC.”

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John Cena Reveals What He Likes Most About Logan Paul

Anutosh Bajpai
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John Cena Reveals What He Likes Most About Logan Paul

John Cena doesn’t buy into Logan Paul hate.

The ever-controversial YouTube star has continued to impress people with every outing since his WWE debut match in 2022. His personality and his conducts outside of the ring however, stop people from cheering for the social media mega star, despite all his abilities.

The now 17 time world champion appeared on the Pat McAfee Show after his WrestleMania 41 victory. While talking about Paul, John Cena mentioned his innovative Mania entrance involving a drone and said that he is as good in the ring as any of the trained wrestlers:

“Logan Paul, Logan Paul’s a stud. I texted him right away after his match. I’m like, ‘Dude, you are innovative.’ From his entrance to holding a drone to thinking on another level of like, I’m gonna swing big and try something different. I thought that was dope.

Then his performance, he’s doing stuff that I couldn’t do at peak physical condition. So regardless of if you like him or you hate him, he’s doing athletic moves that are better or as good as any of the ‘wrestlers’ out there, any of the trained wrestlers.”

He Belongs In That Ring: John Cena

John Cena then explained that he is a fan of Logan Paul unapologetically being himself despite all the hate. The Cenation Leader proclaimed that people will wake up to the former US Champion’s brilliance one day:

“Here’s what I like most about Logan Paul. He doesn’t give two shits if y’all like him or not. He does it as himself and he’s okay. Yo, this dude is a stud. There’s gonna come a time when y’all wake up to Logan Paul. This dude, he got here late, that shouldn’t be a penalty for him. He is a WWE superstar.

He belongs in that ring with everybody else. I know he’s always gonna be himself. Whether you boo him or not, you are going to pay to see that kid because he is unreal.”

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