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Marty Jannetty Marries at 64

Rayan Saayed
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WWE legend Marty Jannetty, one half of the Rockers tag team along with Shawn Michaels, is now a happily married man. The service was officiated by Missy Leslie, wife of fellow wrestling great Ed Leslie (Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake).

Missy wrote on social media, “I had the extreme pleasure of uniting these two in Holy Matrimony,” she wrote in the caption. “Congratulations to Marty Jannetty and his MRS. Addie!!!!”

In January, Jannetty had shared a grim update regarding his health. The former Rocker revealed that he was advised by his doctors to amputate his leg, since he has had ankle issues during his wrestling career. At the time, it was the doctor’s recommendation, despite Jannetty getting surgery in 2020 for his ankle.

Recently, The Undertaker recounted stories about pranks that took place backstage in WWE, and he mentioned that Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty were ,“a couple little turds” who would prank others. He specifically recalled that his hat would always be poked in with random things like sugar, flowers put in it. 

But Jannetty made headlines last year when he claimed that he made a man “disappear.” He wrote on his Facebook page that when he was 13, a man attempted to molest him, and in his defense, he made the man “disappear.” This statement received negative attention from fans, so Jannetty responded stating that he wasn’t a murderer and he hit the man with a brick who was trying to rape him. 

Dax Harwood Comments On Four-Year Anniversary With AEW

Tyriece Simon
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Fan-favorite tag team FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) has officially been with All Elite Wrestling for four years. They debuted with the company during an AEW Dynamite episode on May 27, 2020. 

After a frustrating run with WWE, AEW presented new opportunities for Harwood and Wheeler. The decision to leave WWE proved to be the right one for their careers, as they’ve cemented their legacies under the ‘All Elite’ banner. Harwood took a moment this week to commemorate their anniversary with AEW. 

Thanks to the haters

Dax expressed his gratitude and also let off a few ‘live rounds’ at former wrestling personalities who have been negative about the company they’ve helped build.

 “…Sometimes, online, I get a lot of flack for either defending AEW too often or being soft when it comes to criticism of the company. Mostly by ex-wrestling personalities, who now have an outlet to speak and use AEW for clicks & likes, which is completely ironic because they all hope for the very worst for the company that they monetize the most from.”

Although the AEW superstar didn’t name anyone specifically, he has recently had issues with former WCW President Eric Bischoff, and his negative comments could have been aimed at him. Regardless, Harwood took the time to thank AEW for being with them for four years and how much they meant to his career. 

“…Without this company, I doubt I’d still be in wrestling. All I ever wanted was to do something GOOD for pro wrestling. That was never going to happen without AEW,” wrote Harwood

Accomplishments

Since joining the company, FTR has won the AEW Tag Team Championships twice. They’ve also added the Ring of Honor, AAA, and IWGP tag team titles to their remarkable list of accomplishments. Harwood continued to reflect on what FTR has achieved thanks to AEW. 

“…I’ve become a 10(time) World Tag Team Champion. I’ve won numerous awards from internationally reputable organizations. Above all, I’ve made a living that takes care of my family(Yes, I know I say it all the time) incredibly well, all because of AEW,” Harwood posted.  

He also added that he defends the company and AEW President Tony Khan out of passion for his career. On potentially their last deal, FTR seems content with finishing their career in AEW and putting on excellent tag team matches. Harwood is already looking to enjoy the rest of his time with the company and be around to see AEW succeed 40 years from now.

For this moment, FTR can appreciate four great years with the company as they aim to show why they are one of the best tag teams in wrestling every week. 

YouTube Playlist: FTR’s best AEW World Tag Title defenses:

Maria Kanellis Disputes Reports About Working For ROH

Rayan Saayed
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Maria Kanellis has cleared the air regarding her role at Ring of Honor.

Taking to Twitter, the former WWE Diva said that she’s not a backstage manager at ROH, but she mentors the girls at her own time when she can. She added that she tried to get her old job of being the booker of ROH’s women’s division, but that fell flat.

Kanellis concluded by stating that she’s focused on family, finding a home for the promotion Women’s Wrestling Army, and managing Griff Garrison and Cole Karter in ROH.

“Just saw some news about being a backstage agent at @ringofhonor. I’m not. I mentor the girls on my own time when I can. I tried to get my old job back in ROH booking the women’s division but it didn’t work. So, I’m focused on family, finding a home for @WWrestlingArmy, and managing @griffgarrison1 and @realcolekarter”

The First Lady of Wrestling also spoke about not being happy about the “minor role” she has at ROH. she wrote on social media:

“I’m not happy about it. I’ve tried to fight it. I can only do my job and look for opportunities,” she wrote to a fan who said that she’s happy with her role at ROH with “about 2 minutes of TV time.”

She also agreed with a fan who pointed out that they were surprised Kanellis wasn’t used as part of the Undisputed Kingdom. Kanellis served as the manager of the stable at one point. However, she was given the role of managing Griff Garrison and Cole Karter in the Tony Khan-owned promotion. It seems like Kanellis wants to be part of the faction with Mike Bennett, but for whatever reason, that hasn’t come to fruition.

In February, Kanellis addressed misinformation about her WWE departure in 2010 and husband Bennett’s rehab.

She said that she was “released” by WWE in 2010 when her contract was up, and she didn’t want to renew the contract only to make “one third what my male contemporaries were making.” Here’s what she further added:

“When I went back, I was told by many people I trusted that WWE had changed. WWE knew we were planning on adding to our family when we resigned. Mike asked for his release, I did not. Mike never went to WWE rehab. Nor did they pay for any rehab. We were lied to many times about our storyline and what direction it was going. I fought back against it to no avail. We were never paid millions of dollars in WWE. We had the average contract for WWE for 6 months. We are not millionaires and we don’t live in a mansion. I hope this helps people separate fact from fiction.”

Damian Priest vs. Jey Uso Title Match Is Happening Before WWE Clash At The Castle

Tyriece Simon
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WWE is on the road to Clash At The Castle premium live event next month. The show is expected to be headlined by WWE World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest defending his title against Drew McIntyre. The crucial matchup will be the ‘The Scottish Warrior’ opportunity to win the title in his hometown. However, in Madison Square Garden, it seems Priest may have spoiled that Priest will remain champion. 

On X, MSG advertised that Priest will defend his title against ‘Main Event’ Jey Uso at Friday Night Smackdown on June 28. It’s worth noting that it’s possible this could be a dark match instead of taking place on the show. 

While the match is also subject to change, it seems Priest could be holding the title after Clash At The Castle. It will be his second championship defense, so it’s possible WWE may not be ready to end his reign. Priest has also set up a potential matchup with 2024 King Of The Ring winner Gunther at WWE SummerSlam on August 3. 

Gunther Earning Title Opportunity & More Talent Teasing Heavyweight Championship Match

Gunther earned a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match by defeating Randy Orton in the finals of the King Of The Ring tournament. On the May 27 episode of Monday Night Raw, ‘The Ring General’ celebrated his win and had an in-ring segment with Priest. However, the face-off didn’t last long as McIntyre came to the ring to interrupt them. 

After a brief encounter on the microphone, Braun Strowman came to the ring to confront Priest. The ‘Monster Among Men’ would go on to defeat Judgement Day member JD McDonagh afterward. The champion would later tease that he would if Judgement Day can’t handle Strowman or anyone giving them issues.

Priest has his hands full with McIntyre at Clash At The Castle, but it seems there are a few challenges, including Uso, who is in line to face him for the title. 

McIntyre still has a chance to reclaim the WWE World Heavyweight championship. However, MSG advertising a title match between Priest and Uso isn’t an encouraging sign. 

Chris Jericho: ‘Becky Lynch Has An Option in AEW, Who Knows What Could Happen?’

Thomas Lowson
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Chris Jericho can’t say for sure whether Becky Lynch will soon be ‘All-Elite’ but is pleased that there’s a viable alternative for the departing WWE Superstar. 

Lynch’s contract with WWE is set to expire within a matter of days and while talks are ongoing, a deal is not expected to be reached. On this week’s Raw, Lynch unsuccessfully challenged WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan in the show’s main event. Lynch was visibly emotional after the show as she waved to the fans, which some have taken as a sign that ‘The Man’ is leaving WWE.

Watch: Becky Lynch Waves Goodbye to WWE Fans After Raw

Chris Jericho On Becky Lynch

Once she becomes a free agent, it’s virtually guaranteed that Lynch will receive offers with a deal likely from AEW. Speaking to TMZ Sports, Chris Jericho was asked about Lynch and was pleased that ‘The Man’ has an option. 

“Five years ago, Becky would have no other options. [I’m] not saying that she’s coming but there is an option and who knows what could happen? No one thought that Jericho would come to AEW. No one thought that Moxley would come or Bryan Danielson or Adam Cole or any of these guys that have come over. So it’s exciting for the fans. It’s exciting for the wrestlers, the talent, because now suddenly if there’s a bidding war that just benefits us. So I think it’s it’s very important.” 

Becky Lynch’s Future

Lynch has been telling those in WWE that she does not plan on joining AEW imminently. The former Women’s Champion is expected to take a break from wrestling for the time being. Despite this, WWE sources are confident a new deal will be reached when the time is right. Whatever comes next, fans will remain intrigued to see what the highly popular WWE Superstar does next. 

Report: Adam Copeland Has Full Ownership Of ‘The Brood’ Trademarks in AEW

Thomas Lowson
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Adam Copeland’s Brood-themed entrance may not be the last fans see of the gothic faction when it comes to AEW programming. 

During AEW Double or Nothing 2024, Copeland retained the TNT Championship against Malakai Black. The match was contested in a barbed wire Steel Cage and had Black won, Copeland would have had to ‘bend the knee’ to the House of Black. 

Adam Copeland And The Brood

Copeland arrived at AEW Double or Nothing 2024 with an entrance reminiscent of The Brood from his Attitude Era days. Not only that but Gangrel, another Brood alum, aided Copeland in the match. The Vampire Warrior helped even the odds when it appeared that the House of Black was going to interfere on behalf of the group’s leader. 

Fans may be seeing much more Brood-related antics in AEW going forward. Copeland now owns the rights and trademarks to the term, PW Insider reports. Other Brood alum include Christian Cage as well as Matt and Jeff Hardy. On the go-home Dynamite before AEW Double or Nothing 2024, Black fell victim to a ‘blood bath,’ another stape of the gothic faction. 

Adam Copeland Injured

Brood or no Brood, fans shouldn’t expect to see Adam Copeland in the ring for some time. The WWE Hall of Famer suffered a fractured tibia during the match with Black that will require surgery. It’s unclear what this will mean for his reign as AEW TNT Champion. In the past AEW has used interim champions for short-term injuries while champions out for longer have been stripped of the gold. 

Chris Jericho: I Take Great Pride In Making People Angry

Anutosh Bajpai
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Chris Jericho doesn’t mind the hate he is getting from fans and believes that it’s the beauty of wrestling.

The Learning Tree recently had an interview with KCAL News to promote tonight’s Dynamite episode from Kia Forum in LA. He discussed things such as the reasons behind the recent growth in the popularity of wrestling.

During the interview, Jericho also talked about the latest evolution of his character. The former AEW Champion was asked how he feels about the heat he has been getting recently, and Chris said that it’s amazing:

“It’s amazing. When you have been in the business as long as I have, 33 years, you always wanna evolve and revamp your character. Kind of get some diversity with what you’re doing so I think reestablishing myself under this Leaning Tree, it gives you a new vibe, reinvigorates you, and keeps things fresh and fun.”

It’s The Beauty of Wrestling: Chris Jericho

Later in the interview, Chris Jericho proclaimed that character and stories are the most important things in the business. Fans will always come to see the show if you can connect with the people. When asked how he interacts with the fans, the wrestling veteran said that it’s very important to read the room:

“The one thing about wrestling is and it’s very important is you have to understand the concepts of being a good guy and when it starts getting stale, of being a bad guy. It’s kind of like when people say ‘It’s like a soap opera.’ In that way, it is a soap opera. You’re a good guy and then suddenly something happens and then you don’t like ’em for a while. You have to be able to read the room on that and know when people hate you.

People are really not liking me right now so it’s time to kind of change. And that’s ok, that’s the beauty of wrestling, you can just lean into it. I take great pride in kind of making people angry with things cause that’s what you want to do. You’re playing a character. When Chris Jericho comes on screen in AEW, it’s different from the Chris Jericho you’re talking to right now. That’s the way it should be. A larger-than-life character is kind of what wrestling is all about and I embrace that wholly.”

Chris Jericho successfully defended his FTW Championship at the Double or Nothing PPV this past Sunday. He will be debuting a new talk show dubbed ‘TV Time’ at this Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite.

Quotes in this article have been edited for clarity

Amari Miller Has Sights Set On TNA Wrestling After WWE NXT Exit

Thomas Lowson
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Former NXT Superstar Amari Miller hopes to make her presence felt in TNA Wrestling following her exit from WWE. 

Miller shared in February 2024 that her time with WWE’s developmental brand had ended. Miller said at the time that she was grateful for the opportunities she had received and that she would be working as Cameron Clay moving forward. She had been with WWE since 2021. 

Miller And TNA Wrestling

Although Miller’s time with WWE NXT is over, she isn’t planning on moving on from professional wrestling. Speaking with Julie Cutler for Title Match Network, Miller shared her aspirations to be a part of TNA. 

“I do want to go to IMPACT/TNA. That is just my heart. Honestly, I’m good to wrestle anywhere.”

Miller didn’t just share where she wants to go next but made clear that she hopes to face TNA alum Kylie Rae when the time is right. 

“Kylie Rae, Smiley Kylie. I met her at SHIMMER years ago, and I’ve always wanted to have a match with her but then, she got signed to AEW, and then broke her collarbone. So I haven’t been able to wrestle her. So that is definitely a person.”

There is some irony to Miller wanting to be a part of TNA now that her time with WWE NXT has concluded. On the May 18, edition of WWE NXT, Jordynne Grace was revealed as the next challenger for NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez. More crossover is expected between TNA Wrestling and WWE NXT moving forward. 

WWE & TNA Wrestling Stars Tease Crossover Matches As ‘Forbidden Door’ Bursts Open

Thomas Lowson
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Jordynne Grace is set to compete for WWE NXT very soon but she may not be the only example of a wrestler working in another company. 

The reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion made an ‘impact’ during the May 28, episode of WWE NXT. Grace was revealed as the challenger for WWE NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez for the upcoming NXT Battleground event in June. Grace will also be in action on next week’s WWE NXT when she faces off against Stevie Turner. 

More Crossover Matches?

With Grace set to compete for the WWE NXT Women’s Championship, more wrestlers are hoping to test their skills in the other promotion. On Twitter, WWE’s Cedric Alexander was curious if Grace’s arrival means he will soon have a chance to compete for the TNA X-Division Championship. 

This tease caught the attention of TNA X-Division Champion Mustafa Ali who was open to the match and reflected on a previous encounter between the two. 

‘Dashing’ Chris Bey of TNA tag team ABC was also open to competing in NXT as a TNA representative if WWE’s gold brand wants “one of the best tag teams in the world.”

Former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander was also interested in facing some WWE NXT Superstars after Grace’s appearance. 

Alexander will seemingly get his wish as NXT stars are expected to make appearances for TNA Wrestling. Audiences will no doubt be excited to see more from NXT and TNA as both brands prepare to do much more together to deliver high-quality wrestling and entertainment.

Latest On Ethan Page After Surprise WWE Debut On 5/28 Episode of NXT

Thomas Lowson
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Fans can expect to see much more of Ethan Page in WWE following his shocking debut on the May 28, edition of WWE NXT. 

Page appeared in the closing moments of the show to attack  Trick Williams. The reigning WWE NXT Champion had been accused of attacking Meta Four’s Noam Dar and Oro Mensah but Page made clear he was the one behind these attacks. WWE NXT went off the air with Page holding aloft the NXT Championship, making it clear he wants a shot at the gold. 

Latest On Ethan Page

Page has signed a contract with WWE, PW Insider reports, after attending the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida last week. Page’s arrival at the PC was “under the cover of extreme darkness” and a contract between the two parties was signed within the past few days. 

Page had been with All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor until earlier this month. The details surrounding his exit remain unclear though he was removed from the company’s roster page ahead of his exit. At the time, it was said that his departure from AEW was a “formality” as it was clear he would be leaving. On WWE NXT, Vic Joseph made reference to Page’s ‘All-Elite past’ by asking “Wasn’t he in AE–” but was cut off before he could deliver the final letter. 

Page joined AEW in 2021 at that year’s Revolution pay-per-view and he joined Ring of Honor in late 2023. His final match under Tony Khan came at the February 10, 2024, taping of ROH TV where he defeated Anthony Henry. Now, Page will have an opportunity to prove himself as part of WWE and NXT. 

Update On Jack Perry After Fire Spot At AEW Double or Nothing 2024

Thomas Lowson
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The Elite’s Jack Perry may have been cooked during AEW Double or Nothing 2024 but that likely won’t keep the ‘Scapegoat’ out of action for long. 

The spot in question took place during the show’s ‘Anarchy in the Arena’ main event match that saw The Elite defeat Team AEW (FTR, Bryan Danielson, and Darby Allin.) Amid the chaos, Allin used a flamethrower to burn Perry in one of the most violent spots of the show. 

Update on Jack Perry

Perry was “100% OK” after the Anarchy in the Arena match despite the highly dangerous stunt, PW Insider reports. The former FTW Champion had done the same stunt in the past and AEW “jumped through every hoop” to make sure the stunt was done correctly and safely. 

To pull off the stunt, Perry needed to cover himself in a flammable gel that would quickly burn up before the flames had a chance to burn him. The spot where he ‘knocked himself out’ crashing the bus was to take Perry off camera so he could gel himself up for the fire stunt.

Credit: Scott Lesh.

What’s to Come? 

Perry not only recovered from his burning but also got the win for his team by pinning Bryan Danielson. This is arguably the biggest win of Perry’s career and comes after a unique period of time ever since his suspension at AEW All In: London 2023. Fans can expect the Elite to be celebrating on tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite, though Perry may not be ready to get back in the ring with Darby Allin and his flamethrower anytime soon. 

Chris Jericho Explains Wrestling’s Renewed Popularity

Anutosh Bajpai
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Wrestling has seen unprecedented growth in popularity in the past few years and the sport has started getting regular mainstream attention once again. This new era has been dubbed as the ‘Renaissance Era’ and Chris Jericho believes the live presentation of it is a big reason for it.

The Learning Tree recently appeared on KCAL News to promote this Wednesday’s episode of AEW Dynamite from Kia Forum in LA.

During the interview, the FTW Champion was asked about the renewed popularity of wrestling in recent times. Chris Jericho explained that the live presentation is a big reason for it alongside good stories and characters:

It’s Live Sports: Chris Jericho

“It’s the characters and it’s the stories. It’s live sports. In this day and age, it’s kind of the most valuable entity. It’s the one thing people still watch and don’t stream. You mentioned the NBA playoffs, the NHL playoffs or AEW Dynamite – it’s live, it’s happening right here, right now. So you want to be a part of it. You don’t wanna really go watch it the next day when you find out what’s gonna happen.

I think that keeps it very valuable. But wrestling’s always been about characters and about engaging people with stories. If you can connect with the fans then you’ll always interest them and they’ll always wanna come be a part of what you’re doing, come see and watch you.”

Chris Jericho successfully defended the FTW title in a triple-threat match against Hook and Katsuyori Shibata at Sunday’s Double or Nothing PPV.

The wrestling veteran has been announced for an appearance on this week’s Dynamite. He will be hosting a talk show dubbed as ‘TV Time With The Learning Tree’ on the episode.

The House of Dragon themed episode will also feature a singles match between the AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland and Killswitch as well as a Casino Gauntlet Match to determine the challenger for the AEW World Title at the upcoming Forbidden Door PPV.

Latest On TNA-WWE NXT Collaboration Plans After Jordynne Grace’s Surprise Appearance

Thomas Lowson
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Fans of WWE and TNA Wrestling can expect to see more collaboration going forward following what transpired on the May 28, edition of WWE NXT. 

On the show, NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez was determined to find out who her opponent will be for the upcoming NXT Battleground event in June. WWE NXT General Manager Ava shocked fans by revealing that Jordynne Grace will be challenging Perez at the show. The reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion previously made a surprise appearance during the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

Grace’s role at WWE NXT Battleground won’t be the only example of the crossover between the gold brand and TNA Wrestling, PW Insider reports. The belief among sources is that there will be some sort of representation of WWE NXT at future TNA events and programming as well. It is unclear how much representation of NXT there but it could be anyone beyond Roxanne Perez. 

It is not known when NXT talent will appear for TNA but it could be at the upcoming tapings at Cicero Stadium. On June 14, TNA will host its Against All Odds pay-per-view and there will be a subsequent TV taping the next night. There are no other TNA events planned before this series of tapings. 

Expect to see more crossover between WWE NXT and TNA Wrestling. 

After decades of their ‘don’t play with others’ mentality, WWE’s embracing of the proverbial ‘Forbidden Door’ has been refreshing for fans. Audiences will no doubt be excited to see more from NXT and TNA as both brands prepare to do much more together to deliver high-quality wrestling and entertainment. 

Shelton Benjamin: ‘I’d Be A Fool Not to Go Back to WWE If They Asked’

Thomas Lowson
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Shelton Benjamin’s days as a WWE Superstar may not be over just yet as he’s more than open to a return to the company. 

The former Intercontinental and United States Champion was among those released in September 2023 as part of the first wave of talent cuts following the launch of TKO Group Holdings. Benjamin had returned to WWE in 2016 and became a 24/7 Champion and Raw Tag Team Champion during this run. 

Benjamin is, to many fans, near the top of the proverbial list of talent who have gone underutilized by the WWE machine. Speaking to the Daily Star, however, Benjamin said he’d gladly return to the promotion if they want him.

“I think I’d be a fool to not look at the opportunity. If they ask me to come back, I would definitely go back. I would be a fool not to.”

Benjamin is well aware that his career didn’t go as far as many hoped for him, but in the interview, he encouraged anyone with a chance to be in WWE to sign up. 

“I think of it as a marketing company. If you get a chance to go there, I say to anyone, ‘Go.’ Yes, it’s going to be frustrating at times. Leave your feelings at the door. WWE doesn’t care about your feelings, much like any other job.”

Benjamin is open to a comeback but made clear he’s not actively pursuing such an endeavor. The Gold Standard made his return to the ring post-release in March at an event for WWC in Puerto Rico and he has also wrestled in the UK. Time will tell if Shelton ever returns to WWE but he knows not to count anything out in his career. 

Jade Cargill Says Tag Team With Bianca Belair “Came Out Of The Blue”

Thomas Lowson
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0

Jade Cargill didn’t see herself being in a tag team with Bianca Belair when she joined WWE but the ‘Storm’ isn’t mad that this is exactly what has happened. 

Cargill isn’t just in a tag team with Belair but the pair are the reigning WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. This reign marks Belair’s first tag title reign in WWE and Cargill’s first reign of any kind since joining WWE in September 2023. 

Speaking to the Title Sports Network, Cargill spoke about teaming with the EST and how such a pairing wasn’t initially in her plans. 

“It wasn’t something that was in my cards or my deck. Came out the blue. But teaming with the EST, we’re unstoppable. Who’s going to beat us? Like, let’s really think about that right now. No one. So we knew it was coming. We knew that, you know, we had phenomenal. The Kabuki Warriors are great. You know, they held the belts down, but it’s our time.”

What’s to Come? 

While Cargill and Belair have impressed as a tag team, many fans are waiting to see the two feud. Even before Jade joined WWE, she and the EST had been compared to one another as both are athletic, successful black women. So far, WWE have yet to give a tease of a feud though many expect it’ll eventually come. 

In the meantime, Cargill and Belair will look to keep their title reign going for as long as possible. On last week’s Raw, Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark earned the right to challenge for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships. It is unclear when this title match will take place. 

Ethan Page Makes WWE NXT Debut Weeks After AEW Departure

Aaron Varble
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Ethan Page is now an NXT Superstar, and he made a very impactful debut during the May 28 edition of the show.  This all built around a mystery attacker storyline. 

Noam Dar and Ora Mensa were previously attacked backstage, and the identity of their assailant was unknown until Ethan Page revealed himself as the attacker. During the closing moments of NXT this week, Lash Legend approached NXT Champion Trick Williams to ask if he was responsible for the attacks on Ora and Noam. Williams denied any involvement.

Suddenly, the lights went out, and when they came back on, Williams was being attacked. The announce team couldn’t identify the attacker at first, but it soon became clear that it was Ethan Page.

Watch Ethan Page’s NXT Debut:

Page took the microphone, claimed responsibility for the attacks on Dar and Mensa, and then continued to attack Williams. He posed with the NXT Title, doing his signature cheek dimple pose.

Afterwards, he added insult to injury by trash talking Trick Williams online. Page has made a startling impact upon his arrival in NXT by taking out the brand’s champion. Williams is not one to let something like this go unanswered and we should hear back from him as soon as next week’s show. 

All Ego’s AEW Exit

Ethan Page recently left AEW, making his arrival in NXT a surprise. This came at the end of a night already filled with excitement due to TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace’s unexpected appearance to challenge Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Title at Battleground.

Page signed with AEW in 2021, but he was moved to the ROH brand in 2022 after a few angles that never elevated him. He had not appeared on the show for several months prior to his May 2024 exit. During this absence, he increased his activities in independent wrestling and resumed promoting his Alpha-1 Wrestling events. His removal from the AEW roster page was officially noted on May 2, confirming his exit shortly thereafter. Page had expressed a desire to leave AEW as early as February, indicating his intent to move on.

When Page left Impact Wrestling, where he was a decorated member of The North tag team, WWE reportedly had interest in him for NXT. However, he decided to take Tony Khan up on his offer. Now the 34-year-old Canadian pro wrestler is finally in WWE.

Jordynne Grace Set To Challenge Roxanne Perez For NXT Women’s Title At Battleground

Aaron Varble
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0

Roxanne Perez’s challenger for the NXT Women’s Title was a mystery, but nobody expected Jordynne Grace as her opponent.

During this week’s episode of NXT, Roxanne Perez took to the ring to deliver a heel promo. She praised herself before demanding that NXT General Manager Ava reveal her next challenger. Ava responded by making a surprise announcement that shocked everyone.

Jordynne Grace made her entrance, proudly carrying her TNA Knockouts Title on her shoulder. The fans in the NXT Arena erupted into “TNA” chants as she approached the ring. Once inside, Grace remarked about her Royal Rumble cameo, and then she turned her attention to the NXT Women’s Champion.

Grace confidently declared that she would become a double champion after NXT Battleground, challenging Perez for the NXT Women’s Title.

This announcement, combined with Sexyy Red’s hosting role and the unveiling of the new NXT Women’s North American Title, has set the stage for a historic event. NXT Battleground will take place on June 9 in the UFC Apex.

It was later announced that Jordynne will compete on NXT next week. She confronted Stevie Turner backstage during a segment later in the show, where the NXT newcomer was complaining about Grace’s title opportunity. This set up a match for the June 4 show.

Jordynne Grace’s husband, TNA star Jonathan Gresham, was apparently just as surprised as everyone else by her appearance. He just thought she was running to the store and would be right back.

https://twitter.com/TheJonGresham/status/1795622846397374651

SEScoops will provide complete coverage of NXT Battleground, and you can find the updated event card below.

  • Sol Ruca vs. Lash Legend vs. Fallon Henley vs. Jaida Parker vs. Michin vs Kelani Jordan (Ladder match for the inaugural NXT Women’s North American Championship)
  • Oba Femi (c) vs. Wes Lee vs. Joe Coffey (Triple threat match for the NXT North American Championship)
  • Shayna Baszler vs. Lola Vice (NXT Underground match)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs. TBA (NXT Women’s Championship)
  • Axiom & Nathan Frazer vs The Good Brothers (NXT Tag Team Championship)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs Jordynne Grace (NXT Women’s Title Match)

Sexyy Red Will Host WWE NXT Battleground From UFC Apex

Aaron Varble
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0

Rapper Sexyy Red showed up on NXT this week, and it was revealed that she will host NXT’s Battleground.

The May 28 edition of WWE NXT began with a major announcement from General Manager Ava, who praised the show’s women’s division and introduced Sexyy Red as the special guest for the evening.

Upon entering the ring, Ava revealed that Sexyy Red had an important announcement regarding NXT’s upcoming special event, Battleground, scheduled to take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on June 9, 2024.

WWE has a history of incorporating outside celebrities into various roles, adding excitement and mainstream appeal to its events. Sexyy Red’s viral capabilities were noticed by Shawn Michaels, who extended an invitation for her to participate in the brand after she posted about Noam Dar attacking Trick Williams.

In addition to Sexyy Red’s appearance, WWE also unveiled the new NXT Women’s North American Title. Seizing the moment, Sexyy Red posed with the title, further engaging the audience.

SEScoops will provide complete coverage of NXT Battleground, and you can find the updated event card below.

  • Sol Ruca vs. Lash Legend vs. Fallon Henley vs. Jaida Parker vs. Michin vs Kelani Jordan (Ladder match for the inaugural NXT Women’s North American Championship)
  • Oba Femi (c) vs. Wes Lee vs. Joe Coffey (Triple threat match for the NXT North American Championship)
  • Shayna Baszler vs. Lola Vice (NXT Underground match)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs. TBA (NXT Women’s Championship)
  • Axiom & Nathan Frazer vs The Good Brothers (NXT Tag Team Championship)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs Jordynne Grace (NXT Women’s Title Match)

WWE Gives First Look of NXT Women’s North American Title Before Battleground

Aaron Varble
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0

WWE has revealed a new title for the NXT women’s division, the Women’s North American Championship. Fans got their first look of that new title on this week’s show.

WWE is introducing a new title for the NXT women’s division. A new Women’s North American Champion will be crowned at Battleground, and the title was revealed during the May 28 episode of WWE NXT. Fans immediately commented on the design via social media.

Sexyy Red was on hand to help NXT General Manager Ava reveal the new title. This coincided with the announcement that the famous rapper will also host NXT Battleground. 

The title will be awarded to the winner of a multi-woman ladder match at NXT Battleground. Sol Ruca, Lash Legend, Fallon Henley, Jaida Parker, Michin and Kelani Jordan will compete in the match.

The event will take place on June 9, 2024, at the UFC Apex. SEScoops will provide complete coverage of the event. You may find the updated card for NXT Battleground below.

  • Sol Ruca vs. Lash Legend vs. Fallon Henley vs. Jaida Parker vs. Michin vs Kelani Jordan (Ladder match for the inaugural NXT Women’s North American Championship)
  • Oba Femi (c) vs. Wes Lee vs. Joe Coffey (Triple threat match for the NXT North American Championship)
  • Shayna Baszler vs. Lola Vice (NXT Underground match)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs. TBA (NXT Women’s Championship)
  • Axiom & Nathan Frazer vs The Good Brothers (NXT Tag Team Championship)
  • Roxanne Perez (c) vs Jordynne Grace (NXT Women’s Title Match)

Next Themed AEW Dynamite Will Promote WBD Property

Nick Lombardi
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Coming off a successful Double or Nothing pay-per-view, AEW will look to capitalize on Sunday night’s momentum with it’s next edition of AEW Dynamite on Wednesday. However, this week’s episode of Dynamite will not just be any old episode, as it’ll be a House of Dragon-themed episode. 

For those who don’t know,  House of Dragon is an HBO series that serves as a prequel to its famous Game of Thrones series. As the House of Dragon is set to begin it’s second season on June 16th, AEW and WBD are taking the opportunity to promote the show on AEW’s flagship program. 

In a statement on X, AEW President Tony Khan commented on the upcoming episode, announcing the main event of the episode, which will feature AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland taking on The Patriarchy’s Killswitch. 

This is not the first time All Elite Wrestling has held a Game of Thrones-themed edition of Dynamite. Since 2020, the promotion has held a “Winter is Coming” special of Dynamite every December. The phrase is synonymous with the HBO series and has been the backdrop of several memorable matches and moments in AEW history. 

One moment that stands out is the AEW debut of The Icon Sting in 2020, marking the legend’s return to TNT after nearly 20 years.

As noted, this week’s main event will pit Swerve Strickland against the heavy of Christian Cage’s Patriarchy faction, Killswitch. Cage was unsuccessful in dethroning Strickland in their intense World Heavyweight Championship match in Las Vegas. 

Are AEW and WBD a marriage made to be? Or a Red Wedding? 

Khan had subtly mentioned that a House of Dragon-themed episode of Dynamite was in the works during the Double or Nothing Media Scrum, following questions from the media regarding AEW’s ongoing TV rights negotiations with Warner Brothers Discovery. 

When speaking publicly, Tony Khan has only been incredibly positive when discussing his relationship with WBD, citing that AEW enjoys working with them and would like to continue the partnership. 

Early Tuesday, reports emerged from Matthew Belloni of Puck News that Khan was “unhappy” with the initial offers produced by WBD. While later reports from both WrestleNomics and Wrestling Observer stated that this wasn’t the case, they each confirmed that no deal had yet been reached.  

While a deal between WBD and AEW seems to be the best-case scenario for all parties involved, if WWE’s recent media rights deals have taught us anything, it’s that truly anything can happen in this space. 

Report: Jake Hager Exits AEW After Declining New Contract

Aaron Varble
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AEW’s locker room was getting crowded, but there have been a few departures in recent memory. Now we can add Jake Hager’s name to the list. Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net reports that Hager’s contract has recently expired, and he did not re-sign with All Elite Wrestling, making him a free agent. The decision is believed to have been mutual.

The former Jack Swagger in WWE debuted with AEW on October 2, 2019, during the premiere episode of Dynamite, where he joined The Inner Circle. He made his in-ring debut for AEW on February 29, 2020, at AEW’s Revolution pay-per-view, where he defeated Dustin Rhodes. Following the disbanding of The Inner Circle, Hager became part of the Jericho Appreciation Society. However, he had not been used much since the stable’s breakup in late 2023.

WWE Hall of Famers Mark Henry and Arn Anderson have also announced their departures from AEW. While Jake Hager’s exit is notable, it is worth mentioning that the company had not used him frequently in recent times.

Hager’s last match in AEW took place on February 21, 2024, when he was defeated by Roderick Strong on AEW Rampage in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Arn Anderson Announces Exit From AEW

Dominic DeAngelo
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Arn Anderson will be leaving AEW and is grateful for his time and opportunity with the company.

Speaking on a live version of The ARN Show, The Enforcer revealed that his AEW contract is expiring on May 31 and he’ll be making his leave from the company. Arn expressed his extreme gratitude for Tony Khan, calling him a wonderful human being and noting how much of an impact the AEW President has made on the wrestling industry, giving talent a different place to go and work.

Anderson addressed his future in wrestling, stating that he believes in the talent and ability of his son Brock Anderson, who is no longer with AEW, and wants to spend his remaining years in wrestling helping him develop into a star.

Anderson wanted to thank everyone he worked with in AEW, naming Khan, Tony Schiavone, Jim Ross, Dean Malenko and Jerry Lynn for all the work that they’ve done.

The Enforcer was indeed a force for AEW as one of the notable legends early on under the AEW banner. Anderson first debuted at ALL OUT 2019 when he delivered a spinebuster to Shawn Spears in his grudge match against Cody Rhodes

From then on, Anderson was a key component to Rhodes’ act in the company as he was apart of The Nightmare Family and would accompany Cody to the ring as a coach. For a very brief time, Anderson was an ally to Wardlow during one of his runs as TNT Champion.

“Thank you and see you down the road,” Anderson said. Arn will still stay busy with his Brock, but will also continue doing his series on The Four Horsemen Network.

Matt Cardona is The Latest Wrestler Using Stem Cell Therapy To Deal with Injuries

Thomas Lowson
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Matt Cardona is the latest name in wrestling to turn to stem cell therapy to help with his recovery from a torn pectoral injury. 

The self-professed Indy-God has been out of action since April 2024 with the injury in question that is expected to keep him away from in-ring action for months. Despite this, Cardona has been appointed the GM of GCW and used his power to make a dramatic change to the GCW World Championship picture. 

This week, Cardona took to social media to share an update on his recovery. The former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion revealed that he was undergoing stem cell therapy to help heal his pec. As you can see and hear in the video below though, Cardona hardly enjoyed the treatment. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C7hAL3CONeU

Stem Cell Therapy in Pro Wrestling

Several notable names in wrestling have been aided with stem cell therapy. This list includes WWE Hall of Famers Rob Van Dam, Rey Mysterio, and Kevin Nash. This month, MVP shared that he was undergoing stem cell treatment in Mexico and made clear that he isn’t finished in the ring yet.

WWE Superstar Shotzi is also undergoing stem cell therapy which she believes will help her deal with back pain she has been working through for years. Shotzi is currently out with an ACL injury which she says has given her time to focus on her back issues. 

In 2019, shortly before his return to the ring, Adam Copeland said he had been looking into stem cell therapy. At the time Copeland was optimistic that he COULD return to the ring within five years but as we all know, he returned far sooner than that 2024 prediction. 

Brody King Channels Greg Valentine After Adam Copeland Injury

Dominic DeAngelo
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Adam Copeland will be out with injury and Brody King wants The House Of Black to take credit for it.

Copeland revealed that he fractured his tibia in his barbed wire steel cage match against Malakai Black. The TNT Championship was on the line and despite the broken leg, Copeland came out on top in thanks to a surprise appearance from his old Brood buddy, Gangrel.

The former Edge took to social media to share the unfortunate news that he did hurt himself. The injury occurred when Copeland dove off the top of the cage to land on Black, but it obviously didn’t go as planned. 

Adam did start off by saying that “The House always wins” and Brody King tends to agree with that assessment. During the bloody battle at Double Or Nothing in Las Vegas, King and Buddy Matthews teased that they would be aligning with Copeland, but it was all just a ruse in an effort to help Malakai Black.

Brody was clearly satisfied with the result of both the injury and the match. He happened to address the former by sharing a classic photo and tee shirt of Greg Valentine. ‘The Hammer’ notoriously broke the legendary Wahoo McDaniel’s leg and had a shirt made in homage to his accomplishment. King made a few changes. to Greg’s original garb, however.

The same night Copeland got injured is the very same night that the previously injured MJF made his return to the ring. It’ll be interesting to see the direction AEW takes with Copeland being unable to defend his TNT Championship.

Stokely Hathaway Shares The Hateful Feedback He Got After Backstabbing Willow Nightingale

Dominic DeAngelo
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0

Stokely Hathaway is in his element as a heel and he welcomes any creative type of heat he’s getting online after turning on Willow Nightingale.

Hathaway and Kris Statlander got sick of supporting Willow Nightingale, especially after she lost the TBS Women’s Championship to Mercedes Mone in one of the three main event matches of AEW Double or Nothing. Nightingale was super over as a babyface while Mone is finally easing into her heel identity and so will Stokely and Statlander. 

AEW has advertised that we’ll hear more from Hathaway and Statlander on the forthcoming Dynamite, but Stokely heard quite a bit from fans after he and Statlander did Willow dirty at Double or Nothing.

Stokely took to X to share screenshots of some of the creative negative comments he’s gotten so far, including:

“I hope you got diarrhea for a month you f***ing traitor.”

“Count your days Milk Dud.”

“I know Darby used your head and a magnifying glass to light the flame-thrower.” 

Also, some fans kept it simple with “F*** you, man,” “You b****,” and “Big Stoke, more like B**** Stoke.” He also added another one in the replies that said “I hope you done like Darby and hit by a bus.” 

This prompted Stokely to take a dig a Darby stating, “Also Darby looks like a dumbass. If I was a MTA bus driver, I’d hit him too. FOH,”

Mone is feeling great after winning the TBS Championship in her first AEW match and her first bout in over a year.

“Words can’t describe this feeling. It’s good to be back. And it’s really good to be a champion.”

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