MxM could be making an appearance for ROH in the near future.
MxM(Mansoor & Mason Madden) is trying to take the wrestling world by storm after becoming free agents earlier this year. After WWE released the team on September 21, 2023, they have been on a mission to find success on the independent wrestling scene.
Both superstars have thrived, working for several promotions from around the world. A new report shares that MxM could also have their eyes set on competing for Ring of Honor.
Fightful Select reported on June 12 that Mansoor and Madden would be in attendance for the June 15 episode of AEW Collision. Mansoor had also visited backstage for an AEW Dynamite the prior month. Although the report believed they would compete on the show, it ultimately didn’t happen for unclear reasons.
However, a new Fightful Select report gave another update on the team’s potential involvement with the company.
An AEW source shared with Sean Ross Sapp that the charismatic tag team has been in discussion for appearances for ROH. He also noted that nothing is definitive, and it’s unclear if a deal is in place yet. However, there is movement in place that makes their ROH possible in the near future.
Ring of Honor Owner Tony Khan having MxM compete on ROH TV could be a great addition to the tag team division. Mansoor and Madden have shown the Indies they could be competitive on any roster. The move to work for different promotions has allowed them to wrestle more as a team than in WWE.
MxM could be a fun duo on the ROH roster. For now, they are still focused on continuing their success in the Indies.
Madden shared on X that the tag team will appear at three live events in July. MxM’s first appearance will be at Hoodslam on July 5, where they will take on the Stoner Brothers(Rick Scott Stoner & Scott Rick Stoner). Two days later, the popular free agents will compete at Deadlock Pro Wrestling against Sinner & Saints (Judas Icarus & Travis Williams) in the first round of the 2024 Tag Festival Tournament.
Their last scheduled appearance next month will be at Prestige Wrestling on July 12. MxM will be involved in a Four Way Match against C4 (Cody Chhun & Guillermo Rosas), Midnight Heat (Eddie Pearl & Ricky Gibson), and Sinner and Saints for the Prestige Tag Team Championship.
MxM could still be booked for more appearances next month, including with ROH. Regardless, they are making the most of their opportunities as free agents and showing that former WWE superstars can thrive in the indies.
Khan has officially welcomed the possibility of McMahon joining AEW.
Conrad Thompson had the internet buzzing after he shared that he heard that Shane McMahon had communicated with someone from All Elite Wrestling. McMahon has been off WWE TV since he suffered a torn quadricep injury in an impromptu match against The Miz at WrestleMania 39 on April 2. Many fans believe it will be for WWE if Shane-o-Mac returns to TV. However, it seems WWE’s competition would welcome him with open arms.
Justin Barrasso recently spoke with AEW President Tony Khan for SI and asked about the possibility of Shane ‘o Mac becoming All Elite. Khan said he’s never met the man, but would welcome him any time.
“I heard the rumor he might be interested,” said Khan. “I’ve never met Shane, but we have a lot of mutual friends.”
“I have a lot of respect for him as an executive and a professional wrestler. Shane is always welcome in AEW.”
It’s unclear if McMahon really has an interest in joining AEW. That said, the possibility has fans wondering how the WWE veteran would fit in another wrestling company. The AEW President also touched on other topics related to the company, including an update on their TV rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery.
Tony Khan Remains Optimistic About New Deal With Warner Bros. Discovery
The clock is starting to run out on AEW’s current deal with WBD. It’s expected that their current TV deal will expire in the fall. Despite AEW not reaching a new agreement, Khan has remained optimistic about the company’s future.
In the interview, Khan shared a minor update, stating that he has recently spoken with the WBD staff.
“We’re having great discussions with Warner Bros. Discovery,” said Khan. He continued, “I have a great relationship with (WBD CEO) Mr. David Zaslav. We’re fortunate to work with him and his team. It’s a really strong relationship, and I had just a great discussion with their leadership team this week.”
It seems AEW’s future with WBD is still in limbo. Hopefully, both sides can reach a new deal, or Khan can find his company a new home before the fall.
All Elite Wrestling has announced on X an exciting slate of matches for next week’s episode of Dynamite. In celebration of Warner Bros. Discovery Shark Week, AEW Dynamite Beach Break will occur on July 3 at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois.
The event is expected to follow the aftermath of AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, which occurs on June 30. On X, the company also shared that the 2024 Owen Hart Foundation Men’s and Women’s Tournament will continue on the episode.
One of the featured matchups will have Jeff Jarrett taking on a mystery opponent in the tournament’s quarter-finals. The wrestling legend shared an emotional promo about his relationship with Owen and why he needs to win the Owen Hart Cup on the June 22 episode of AEW Collision. It’s unclear who Jarrett will face, but it’s possible fans will get a hint as the episode draws closer.
Another important matchup announced was that Willow Nightingale will finally get a chance at revenge against Kris Statlander in the semi-finals of the tournament. The former AEW TBS Champion was betrayed by Statlander and her former manager Stokely Hathaway at Double Or Nothing on May 25. Nightingale is expected to be extra motivated to win against Statlander and to become a two-time Owen Hart Cup Winner.
PAC Opponent For AEW Dynamite Beach Break To Be Determined
In addition to the two matches announced for next week’s episode, PAC will also be in action in the semi-finals of the men’s tournament. He defeated Claudio Castagnoli on the June 19 episode of Dynamite to move forward in the competition. Unfortunately, he will have to wait until Forbidden Door to find out who the opponent will be.
Bryan Danielson will take on Shingo Takagi in the quarter-finals at the upcoming pay-per-view. The matchup has the potential to be one of the best matches on the card, with both superstars having a hard-hitting style. However, the winner will have the challenging task of facing PAC three days later on the Dynamite episode.
The July 3 episode of Dynamite has the potential to be a great show. Fans will be sure to tune in to witness how the 2024 Owen Hart Foundation Men’s and Women’s Tournament continues to develop.
In professional wrestling, podcasts covering the industry are as common as clotheslines and headlocks. For those brave explorers seeking to venture into the pro wrestling podcast vortex, we here at SEScoops want to make your journey as easy as possible.
Each week, we update you on the Top 25 most-listened-to wrestling podcast episodes, focusing on the Top 5 (including embeds). This feature is based on data from Apple Podcasts compiled by Chartable.
WWE Hall of Famer Mark Calaway, aka The Undertaker, stands unmatched in the world of pro wrestling podcasts. The Phenom got into the podcasting game in October 2023, and since then, the show has surged to the top of the boards. A reality that doesn’t seem poised to change any time soon.
In the Deadman’s latest episode, he focuses on the The Excellence of Execution, Brett Hart. Together with his co-host, Matt, they discuss what it was like going up against Hart while he was in his prime and how much Calaway learned from working with The Hitman. If you are worried there isn’t enough time for him to cover everything, don’t worry; it’s a two-part episode!
2) Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru| +
This week, the ever-proud provocateur and wrestling legend found himself in two spots on the Top 5 list, first at the #2 position for his Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru program.
On the latest edition of the program, Cornette covers AEW Dynamite’s record-low episode (Wednesday, June 19th), the introduction of Uncle Howdy on Monday Night RAW, Episode 3 of “Who Killed WCW?” and more!
3) Insight with Chris Van Vliet | ~
Chris Van Vliet isn’t just one of the most well-respected interviewers in professional wrestling; he’s an internationally recognized media personality. CVV is a 4-time Emmy Winning TV Host, YouTuber, and Inc. 500 entrepreneur who’s interviewed everyone from Anne Hathaway to Hornswoggle.
In the latest episode, Vliet sits down with former WWE Champion Rey Mysterio! Mysterio opens up about many different topics, including being an active competitor, his son Dominik, his thoughts on eventual retirement, the creation of his iconic 619 maneuvers, the late great Eddie Guerrero, and winning the Royal Rumble, to name a few!
4) Jim Cornette Experience |–
Love or hate him, Jim Cornette doesn’t care what you think. His presence in professional wrestling goes back decades, and he is one of the pioneers in producing weekly content on wrestling commentary.
“This week on the Experience, Jim reviews WWE Clash at the Castle, episode two of Who Killed WCW?, and A&E’s Biography of Ricky Steamboat! Also, Jim talks about Ric Flair, WNBA, boots, and more! Plus Jim reviews last week’s WWE Smackdown!”
5) Something to Wrestle with Bruce Prichard | ~
Rounding out the top 5 this week is the most recent episode of Bruce Prichard’s “Something to Wrestle.”The tell-all show is hosted by Bruce Prichard, who is not only a current WWE executive but also one of the most powerful figures in professional wrestling history.
On this episode of Something To Wrestle, Prichard and co-host pull a Cher and turn back time to discuss The Great American Bash 2004. It quickly becomes apparent that the PPV is NOT something Bruce reflects fondly on.
It’s been ten years since Becky Lynch made her WWE in-ring debut, and an unfortunate start would lay the foundations for one of the biggest stars in all of professional wrestling.
Lynch’s infamous in-ring debut on WWE programming came on the June 26, 2014, edition of WWE NXT where she faced Summer Rae. Lynch’s arrival in WWE played heavily into her Irish roots, complete with green attire and Irish jig during her entrance.
“Turns out, I really do have no shame… My God was it awful. It was possibly the most shameful debut in the history of wrestling, with all due respect to the 1993 WCW debut of The Shockmaster. If mine wasn’t the all-time most humiliating debut, it was at least a contender for top three. And yet, the crowd seemed to like this silly buffoon.”
Despite her character, Lynch would win over the fans and would reach new heights after ditching her shamrock-inspired persona for a heel role with Team BAE (Best At Everything.) From there, Lynch would rise up the ranks and within a year, was moved to the main roster as part of the Women’s Revolution. The rest, as they say, is history, with Lynch becoming one of wrestling’s top stars of her time (regardless of sex) and capturing gold on Raw and SmackDown.
What’s Next for Becky Lynch?
Earlier this year, Lynch’s contract with WWE expired and she opted not to re-sign, making her a free agent for the first time in eleven years. Lynch’s final match with WWE saw her lose a steel cage match to Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, who is glad to have “retired” The Man, according to a recent tweet.
Despite Morgan’s claim, Lynch is expected to return to WWE when the time is right, according to those within the company. While there are fans who would love to see Lynch join AEW, The Man has told those in WWE she doesn’t plan on becoming All-Elite anytime soon.
Baszler is set to return to GCW’s Bloodsport on July 28.
The wrestling world is stunned after Josh Barnett announced that WWE superstar Shayna Baszler will return to Game Changer Wrestling. On April 4, the ‘Queen of Spades’ competed at GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport X against Masha Slamovich. After a successful partnership, WWE has allowed Baszler to compete again for GCW for Bloodsport XI.
Barnett broke the news on his X account. The event will occur at the Roulette Intermedium in Brooklyn, New York, on July 28. He also hyped up her return by adding that she is a natural to the bloodsport concept, as she trained under him during her MMA career.
For her, the "debut" in Josh Barnett's Bloodsport was not that but in fact her stepping into the ring she was forged from – the crucible that has made her a champion in MMA and Pro Wrestling.
This July, she returns to her birthplace to once again reign in blood and glory.
The Bloodsport XI match card is still being developed. So far, the company has revealed that current TNA Wrestling superstar Mike Santana will take on wrestling legend Homicide. GCW has also announced that ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey, Slamovich, Akira, and Matt Makowski are set to compete on the show. The addition of Baszler has increased interest in the event, with fans wondering who she will face.
Possible Opponent For Shayna Baszler
Baszler returning for Bloodsport XI has made the possibility of seeing her get a rematch against Slamovich realistic. In their first encounter, both gritty superstars put on a brutal technical match that was well-received by fans. Baszler won after the referee decided that the TNA superstar couldn’t continue due to repeated head strikes. GCW could have them face off again in a rematch to see who is better on July 28.
Another possibility is her ‘Four-Horsewomen of MMA’ ally and friend, Marina Shafir. While Baszler succeeded in her debut at Bloodsport X, Shafir would win the women’s tournament, defeating two opponents on the same card. GCW could make a matchup to pit them against each other for an action-packed showdown.
GCW has plenty of fun options for opponents who can face Baszler. Regardless, the former WWE NXT Women’s Champion’s return to GCW marks another sign that the wrestling world has significantly changed.
Where has Ricky Starks been on AEW? “Absolute” is completely cleared to wrestle but one of the company’s biggest stars on the rise has been nowhere to be seen since being hurt months back on AEW Collision.
Starks took a nasty DDT during Tag Title Tournament match on Collision. He ended up taking a full three count, allowing Top Flight to advance. Reports were that Starks and his partner Big Bill were supposed to advance. However, the potential injury to Ricky prompted an immediate audible.
Of all things, Reddit conjured up the discussion of Starks, and Fightful decided to look into the situation. Some of their AEW sources claim that Starks turned down pitches to be on television. A different source said that the only pitch Starks turned down was breaking up with Big Bill. The plan was to turn Bill full heel and Starks babyface, but Starks reportedly believed a contentious break-up wouldn’t benefit either. Starks reportedly wasn’t particularly happy with the lack of follow-up to his memorable match with Bryan Danielson.
There was also speculation that Starks wasn’t allowed in Calgary due to legal matters, but those rumors have been dispelled. Starks is not in the men’s bracket of The Owen Hart Cup after winning the tournament in 2023. Ricky defeated CM Punk in the finals of the tournament last year.
Regarding Starks’ interest in WWE, Fightful states there is a contingency in AEW who believe WWE is a goal. That notion makes complete sense considering that he’s close friends with Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill and CM Punk. It was actually Rhodes who brought Starks into the AEW fold. Starks was one of the names during COVID to challenge ‘The American Nightmare’ for the TNT Championship.
MLW is making moves and that includes long-time pro wrestling personality David Marquez.
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful is reporting that Major League Wresling has hired Marquez as their new Head of Production. Not only that, but there are plans in place for MLW to hire former WWE and TNA producer, David Sahadi.
David Marquez has recently re-emerged on MLW programming as a backstage interviewer, both while having sold-out shows in Chicago and Atlanta. Previously, Marquez appeared as a personality on NWA and was the promoter of CWF Hollywood in California.
Sapp also noted that the company plans to make production changes that happen to include a TV truck starting this July.
David Marquez Adds To The Evolution Of MLW
MLW has found success hitting the road once again after having extended stays in Philadelphia, a trend that greatly began during the global pandemic. The company has lost big names such as Alex Hammerstone and Jacob Fatu, but has made an effort to build new stars such as Alex Kane, Matthew Justice, One Called Manders, Janai Kai, Rickey Shane Page and AKIRA.
MLW CEO Court Bauer also has brought veteran names into the fold including their first-ever World Champion, Satoshi Kojima and NJPW star Minoru Suzuki. They’ve also brought back Matt Riddle, who notoriously got a lot of his early pro wrestling work under the MLW banner. Riddle was the recent winner of Battle Riot VI and will have a future World Title shot down the line whenever he chooses, but before that he will take on Sami Callihan this July at their next PPV, Blood & Thunder.
Along with Riddle, Major League Wrestling has been the wrestling promotion to introduce big names to the wrestling world. MJF, Swerve Strickland as well as the aforementioned Hammerstone and Fatu all cut a great deal of their teeth under the MLW banner.
Penta El Zero Miedo has an AEW contract reported expire this summer, but would The Lucha Brother go to WWE?
Lucha Libre Online reported this month that Penta’s current AEW deal is done sometime in August or September and that WWE is interested in scooping the luchador up.
Penta was a guest on COMIENDO CARNITAS, and addressed the matter, stating that the WWE interest was only a rumor. Miedo confirmed that his contract did indeed end in August or September (noting his agent had to remind him). Penta makes clear that AEW is currently where his alliegance stands and prefers to focus on the present.
“There isn’t anything tangible. If there was to be anything tangible, we would need to evaluate it, check what is more convenient both financially and in-ring. Someone told me that it was like playing for Barcelona while you should play for Real Madrid. I can see that perspective, but I am not that young and it would be my last big contract.”
Penta makes clear he has no problems with either company and was asked if he’d be interested in going to WWE.
“It would be a good episode in my career, but I do not like to fantasy book. If it happens, it happens. I am focused on AEW and I am happy where I am at right now. Of course there is some complaints like more focus on the projection and rivalries, like it happens with every wrestler and company.”
Penta signed with AEW back in 2019 wrestled on AEW television earlier this month against The Butcher, but hasn’t been in a prominent television storyline in quite some time.
Sika Anoa’, WWE Hall of Famer, has passed away today at the age of 79. Sika’s passing was announced by his nephew, Jahrus Anoa’i. Jahrus took to Instagram to write the following about his beloved uncle.
“It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of Former Hall of Famer, Polaivao Leati Sika Anoa’i. He passed away peacefully on June 25th. Sika was a celebrated figure whose contributions and legacy have left an indelible mark. His memory will live on through his achievements and the many lives he touched.”
“He was many things: a hard working father, a caring brother, a supportive uncle, and a proud grandfather. He was a cherished friend to many, a loving family member whose warmth and kindness knew no bounds, and an inspiration to countless individuals. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations, reminding us of the impact one person’s life can have on so many. Rest in love Uncle Sika.”
Sika leaves a historic legacy in pro wrestling, not just through his own accomplishments, but his whole family. The nature of his passing is currently undisclosed.
We at SEScoops would like to send our deepest condolences and prayers to the entire Anoa’i family during this time.
The Legacy Of The Wild Samoans
Sika and his brother Afa were notoriously known as The Wild Samoans, as they were a force in the territories. The brothers also became three-time WWE Tag Team Champions under the management services of Captain Lou Albano.
The Wild Samoans were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame back in 2007. Sika’s “bloodline” would continue to carry on through his sons, the late Rosey and Roman Reigns, who the latter is one of pro wrestling biggest stars of the 21st century. Sika and Afa appeared on WWE programming to appoint Reigns as “The Tribal Chief” in 2020.
The Tag Team Championships of Monday Night Raw are once again in the hands of the Judgment Day after the faction won the titles on this week’s episode.
The June 24, edition of Raw saw Liv Morgan once again meddle in the Judgment Day’s affairs, but this time it paid off for the group. Morgan began by manipulating Truth into getting RAW GM Adam Pearce to make an official tag team title match between Truth & The Miz and Finn Balor and JD McDonagh. Morgan was also at ringside for the match.
Chaos ensued in the closing moments of the match with other members of the Judgment Day and Braun Strowman making their presence felt. The final moments saw Morgan attack Truth, giving Balor and McDonagh an opening to win the titles.
As the pair celebrated on the stage, Morgan posed with the duo with her Women’s World Championship. Neither Balor nor McDonagh seemed pleased that Liv was inserting herself into their moment, despite Morgan’s crucial role in their victory in Raw’s main event.
This is the third tag team championship reign for Finn Balor, who captured the Raw Tag Team Titles twice before with Damian Priest. This is the first title victory for McDonagh on WWE’s main roster. The Irish Ace is also a former NXT Cruiserweight Champion.
It’ll be interesting to see how things unfold from here. While The Judgment Day may not care for Morgan, she certainly paid off on this week’s Raw. And with the WWE Women’s World Champion deep into her ‘revenge’ tour, it’s likely she’s not finished with The Judgment Day just yet.
Backstage after Raw went off the air, Balor and JD cut their first promo as the new champions of WWE’s Raw brand.
The new champions also got a ceremonial photo with Triple H pointing at them.
Another bizarre incident on The Pat McAfee Show, seemingly committed by the Wyatt Sicks, has continued to raise anticipation for the Uncle Howdy-led faction.
During the latest show from the Raw commentator, WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque was in the studio. As the two men discussed all things WWE, an image with the phrase ‘You Lied’ appeared on the screen before promptly cutting to black. McAfee and others in the studio were perplexed with Pat blaming producer Evan ‘Foxy’ Fox.
Pat was quick to dismiss the notion that the Wyatt Sicks was behind this, despite the group’s past proclivity for hijacking broadcasts with cryptic images. Levesque humorously added that after meeting Pat’s production crew, he wouldn’t rule out a mistake being made by one of McAfee’s staff. The Game did admit though that this incident on McAfee’s show is quite the coincidence given the Wyatt Sicks’ tactics.
This isn’t the first time that the Wyatt Sicks has seemingly struck McAfee’s show. During the June 20, 2024, broadcast, McAfee’s broadcast ended with something off-camera spooking those on the show. The episode then cut to the ‘You Lied’ image that fans saw on the latest episode.
Whether this footage is legitimate or not is up for fans to decide, but this latest show certainly has fans interested in what’s next. With McAfee set to be on tonight’s Raw, one week removed from the Wyatt Sicks’ debut, the commentator may have to watch his back or face being introduced to Uncle Howdy.
On June 22nd, WWE interviewer and on-air talent Kayla Braxton (real name Kayla Becker) announced her departure from the Stamford promotion after an 8-year tenure with the company. Quicky, rumors began to swirl about the future for the 33-year-old. Unsurprisingly, this included predictions that Becker may look to continue a career in the professional wrestling industry and potentially join another promotion.
If you were one of the many fans hoping to see Becker display her elite skills on someone else’s show, well, in the words of SmackDown commentator Wade Barrett, we have some “Bad News!”
On Monday morning, Becker took to social media to set the record straight. In a post on X, Becker bluntly stated that she wouldn’t be leaving “the largest wrestling company in the world” if she wanted to stay within the industry.
The support from u guys has been overwhelming. I am so thankful for u.But I did wanna make 1 thing clear as I enter my final week in WWE: if I wanted to keep working in wrestling, I wouldn’t be walking away from the largest wrestling company in the world. Nice try, rumor weeds!? pic.twitter.com/FuMW7boVgt
Becker signed with WWE in 2016 and started as a ring announcer in NXT. She would soon find herself on the main roster, working as a backstage interviewer, talk show host, and pre-show panelist. In recent years, Becker has become the lead backstage interviewer for the blue brand, with her humorous interactions with Paul Heyman have become a favorite among the WWE Universe.
In a lengthy social media post, Becker thanked the linked of Michael Cole, Triple H, and Nick Khan for all the opportunities she had been afforded during her time with the company. As of this writing, her final scheduled date with WWE will be on Friday, June 28th edition of SmackDown, which is set to take place in Madison Square Garden.
In playful banter on X, AEW on-air talent RJ City jokingly replied “Thank God” to Becker’s post about not joining another promotion. Becker would slap back by saying, “What I meant to say, was I wouldn’t leave to go be within 10 feet of this creep .@RJCity1”. The “war” between WWE and AEW has truly never been more intense!
SEScoops wishes Kayla Braxton (Kayla Becker) a big congratulations on an incredible run with WWE. We can’t wait to see what she does next.
Many considered this past Friday’s SmackDown episode to be one of the brand’s strongest episodes of some time. The event featured significant moments such as Drew McIntyre’s vicious beatdown of CM Punk in his hometown, Chelsea Green receiving a massive ovation from the WWE Universe as she qualified for Money In the Bank, and the shocking debut of Jacob Fatu as a new member of The Bloodline.
Fans may have credited the episode’s quality to WWE putting in extra work this week to deliver strong content, especially following highly praised episodes of RAW and NXT. However, there might be more to it than just that.
According to a new report from Fightful Select, the blue brand has a new head writer at the helm. The outlet reports that John Swikata has been promoted to the lead writer position, replacing Ryan Callahan who Fightful Select noted has conversely parted ways with the company.
Some may remember Callahan after he was named in Britney Abrahams’ wrongful termination lawsuit last year. Abrahams claimed that she was let go from the company as retaliation for her objection to “several offensive creative pitches.” In the lawsuit, Abrahams alleged that Ryan Callahan had once suggested a storyline where then WWE Superstar Mansoor, who is Saudi Arabian, would have been revealed as the culprit behind 9/11. Abrahams Voluntarily Dismissed the suit in August of 2023.
Fightful Select reports that Swikata has been with the company for “years”, with sources close to WWE stating that he has already made a “huge impact” on the SmacDown product.
It was recently reported that those within WWE had considered the June 21st edition of SmackDown to be one of the “biggest” SmackDown since WrestleMania season, and it is certainly hard to argue with that.
Cody Rhodes reveals injury after SmackDown
During a WWE live event in Bloomington, Illinois, WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes revealed to the WWE Universe in attendance that he suffered “two broken ribs” at the hands of The Bloodline and Jacob Fatu on SmackDown.
“A little scoop for you Bloomington, last night I did break two of my ribs. And the thought [backstage] was ‘Well, you can take off Bloomington, you can take off Kalamazoo. You can even take off next Friday where the story began in 1978, New York City’ And my answer to that was emphatically, 100% ‘Hell No!'”
Cody Rhodes and the new self-proclaimed Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa seem to be set on a collision course, as fans should expect an epic showdown between the two men this summer. Whether WWE books the match for next month’s Money In The Bank PLE in Toronto or for Summer Slam in August is yet to be determined.
It is the opinion of this writer that WWE may look to use both events as part of this Cody Rhodes vs The Bloodline 2.0 rivalry. Much like last year, WWE used MITB to host a “Bloodline Civil War” tag team match between The Usos and Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa, with a Tribal Combat match between Jey Uso and Roman Reigns set the following month. This time around, we could see a multi-person tag match involving Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and Kevin Owens taking on some combination of The Bloodline.
Unlike a Paul Heyman spolier, this is just some fun fan predictions.
All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling collaborative pay-per-view event is fast approaching with an exciting card. AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door will occur at the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, on June 30.
So far, the card has eight matches announced, including five championships set to be defended. One of the matchups that the PPV has been built towards is AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm defending her title against Mina Shirakawa.
The feud has been building for several months, with both competing over the attention of Mariah May. The matchup would become official when Storm and Shirakawa signed their contracts on the June 19 episode of AEW Dynamite. Both superstars are expected to be at their best, as they hope to walk away as the AEW Women’s Champion and have May at their side.
Tony Khan On Storyline Between Toni Storm, Mina Shirakawa & Mariah May
AEW President Tony Khan spoke with Bleacher Report’s Doc-Chris Muller to give his insight on the storyline heading into the women’s title match. Khan praised all three superstars for how they have generated intrigue from fans, particularly the growth of Storm and May in AEW.
“…It’s a storyline that I put together based on things Toni Storm has done since becoming ‘Timeless,’ and the integration of Mariah May, and it’s a fascinating dynamic between Toni and Mariah, and I think it’s some of the most captivating on AEW television week in and week out and it’s been fascinating to watch Mariah progress since she came in,” said Khan.
Khan spoke highly of May and how she embraced her character of idolizing Storm since joining AEW. He also credited RJ City for helping him craft the storyline and believes Shirakawa could be a regular on the AEW roster.
“…Mina has become a major part of AEW in recent weeks and I think she’s somebody that can be here on a regular basis. Somebody that can represent us as the AEW Women’s World Champion and Mina has a lot of history with Mariah, and Toni has a ton of history now with Mariah that has been built in this past year, and I felt like this dynamic would work so well, and everybody’s been great,” said Khan.
Tony Khan Previews Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door
The AEW President praised all three performers and believes the women’s title match could be great. He didn’t share who he thought would be victorious but hinted that the storyline could conclude at the PPV.
“…All three of them, Toni, Mariah, and Mina, are fantastic wrestlers, and it’s going to pay off at Forbidden Door in a fantastic match when Toni Storm fights Mina Shirakawa for the AEW Women’s World Championship and also possibly for the respect and affection of Mariah May, and I cannot wait for the match,” said Khan.
Khan added that he loved working with them to create the storyline and how well everyone has performed. It seems likely that Storm will retain her championship, but fans will be interested to see if the results will make May choose who she’d rather be with. Fans must tune in at AEW x NJPW to know how the storyline will unfold.
VICE TV premiered its highly anticipated “Who Killed WCW?” four-part series earlier this month. The series was conceived through a collaboration between the creators of the network’s hit show Dark Side Of The Ring and WWE legend The Rock’s production company, Seven Bucks Productions.
The first two episodes of the series provided an overview of World Championship Wrestling’s rise as a rating powerhouse, the formation of the nWo, and the, at times, tense relationship between Eric Bischoff and the executives at Turner Broadcasting.
In Episode 3, fans are introduced to one of the most controversial figures in professional wrestling, Vince Russo. The episode explored Russo’s impact on WCW’s creative direction and how the company was beginning to spiral from a creative and financial position past a point of no return.
While Russo’s involvement in the company initially inspired hope for those within Turner and the roster that things would change for the better, history doesn’t necessarily remember it as so. Today, let’s cover the Top 3 biggest takeaways from this latest episode, specifically reflecting on some of the biggest moments emphasized in the episode.
1) The Pure Chaos that is Bash at the Beach 200Bash at the Beach was one of WCW’s marque pay-per-views during the company’s existence. While the 1996 edition of the event is remembered as one of the biggest nights in professional wrestling, the night when Hulk Hogan turned heel and officially formed the New World Order (nWo) with Kevin Nash and Scott Hall, the event’s 2000 presentation four years later is considered by some to be one of the many cuts that would eventually cause WCW to bleed out.
As the docu-series explores, the event was plagued with issues. This is mainly due to the creative differences between Vince Russo and the duo of Erich Bischoff and Hulk Hogan. While the event’s details have been well documented, debated, and rehashed numerous times over the last two decades, one thing remains the same – Vince Russo and Erich Bischoff still can’t agree on what happened.
To cover it quickly, there was a significant disagreement about who should be the world champion at the night’s end. Vince Russo wanted to have Booker T, while Hogan and Bischoff disagreed with Russo’s plans to get the title off the Hulkster. The two sides were at a standstill with Hogan’s “creative control” clause in his contract. An eventual compromise was struck, which involved a complicated storyline involving a screwy finish to Hogan’s schedule bout with Jeff Jarret and Hogan leaving the building in “a huff” was made.
While everything seemed to go according to plan, Vince Russo would shock everyone when he came out to the ring unannounced and dropped his infamous “Politican Hulk Hogan” promo. Russo would take shots directly at Hulk Hogan and accuse him of holding company heritage from a creative standpoint, ending it by saying, “You will never see that piece of s*** again.”
While Russo claims this was all part of the storyline, with some venting of true frustration sprinkled in, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff did not take it that way. The incident would lead to Hulk Hogan never appearing on WCW TV again, with a defamation lawsuit to follow, and Eric Bischoff distancing himself from Russo even more than he already had.
One positive outcome of the evening was when Booker T would become world champion for the first time—defeating Jeff Jarrett in the main event. In the episode, Booker T expressed excitement and surprise when told he would be in the match.
“I found out about 10 minutes before I had to wrestle…Man I had so much energy! I remember before the bell rang, I jumped up so high – I was just like ‘let’s get this thing!’. It somebody like Vince Russo who was outside the box to push them to make a decision, and check their conscious for a second…I was totally out of the loop as far as what was going with Vince Russo, Hulk Hogan, and Eric Biscoff”.
The moment echos a recurring theme in the series: plenty of finger-pointing and unclaimed blame.
2) David Arquette Becomes WCW World Champion *sigh*
While pointing out bad creative ideas in WCW from 1999-2001 is about as easy as finding Braun Strowman in a haystack, some stick out well above the rest. One of those questionable choices was putting the WCW World Championship on around the waist of actor David Arquette.
The controversial move was made to help promote the actor’s upcoming movie Ready To Rumble, where a wrestling superfan finds his way into the squared circle and becomes champion. The film also featured several WCW talent and WCW-themed backdrops.
In episode 3, Vince Russo claims that the idea came from the mouth of WCW lead commentator Tony Schiavone. Russo said everyone on the creative team agreed that the plan was a good idea. Bischoff would even say in the documentary that he “didn’t see the harm in it.” While the powers at be didn’t see the negatives, wrestlers like then-champion Diamond Dallas Page did, with even Arquette having some trepidations about the idea himself.
Perhaps the most controversial creative move WCW made in 2000 was the decision to put the World Heavyweight championship on actor David Arquette, a ploy that was maligned by fans.
— Dark Side of the Ring (@DarkSideOfRing) June 16, 2024
Nevertheless, the plan was put into action, and on the April 26th, 2000 edition of WCW Thunder, Arquette pinned Eric Bischoff himself to win the title. While initially excited about the title win, Arquette would quickly have second thoughts on the decision after conversing with Booker T backstage.
As he details in the episode, Arquette sat next to the future WWE Hall of Famer in the locker room shortly after the match. While supportive of Arquette, Booker T revealed that he had never once won the world title during his tenure with the company. The moment would cause Arquette to pause, eventually making him regret the idea instantly.
The moment was universally panned by WCW fans, as many considered it the lowest moment in the company’s history. Despite this, Vince Russo, to this day, feels as though it was the right decision. Noting that it got attention on WCW, both from wrestling fans and non-wrestling fans.
“Bro, I’ll never forget it; the next morning after that, I wake up and go downstairs to the front desk – what’s on the front cover of the US Today? That would have never ever happened in a million years, and at that time, that’s what we were after. And again Bro, I’m going to say it, I write a television show.”
“I would do the same thing today bro, without blinking an eye…Quite frankly I could care less [when asked if he understood people’s negative reactions]”
In the long run, the move did little to help either WCW’s long-term ratings or the film at the box office. Instead, it cheapened the world championship, rendering it nothing more than a prop. As the famous proverb from St. Bernard of Clairvaux goes, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”
3) Vince Russo’s self-reflection on his time in the spotlight
During the final stretch of as part of WCW, Vince Russo – much like Eric Bischoff had before him – became as involved in TV programming in front of the camera as he was behind it. Russo would become a key figure in the New Blood vs Millionaire Club storyline and had a feud with Goldberg. Russo even became the world champion in September 2000, much to the talent and fans’ chagrin.
Despite criticism, Russo believes his role on WCW TV was not only necessary for ratings; he asserts that he was more talented at generating reactions than most of the talent on the roster.
“I’m just going to be one thousand percent completely honest with you: as far as an on-air character? I felt that I was better than 80% of that roster…I made the mistake of saying, ‘You know what? ‘F it, if you want ratings, I will go out there and get ratings myself. I almost got killed, bro. I almost got killed!”
As one could imagine, this line quickly spread across the internet in the days following the episode’s broadcast. Despite criticism, Russo remained steadfast in his stance and even reinforced his position.
Wow, some can't handle the "I was better than 80% of the Talent" Comment.
Remember—WCW had a VERY BIG ROSTER.
Am I sorry I said it? Not at all. I don't say anything I don't mean. It's all on Peacock—I'll let my heat Speak for itself.
Vince Russo’s name will be forever remembered in pro wrestling history, albeit from a controversial lens. Some will argue that Russo’s crash TV approach to creativity helped lead to WWE’s boom period in the attitude era, and with the right amount of time and support, it could have done the same for WCW.
On the other hand, others will look back on Russo as a man who played a significant role in the ultimate demise of World Championship Wrestling—extinguishing what little prestige and legacy remained within the company.
But as the man points out, all the evidence one would need to draw to their objective conclusion is in WWE’s library.
The Final Episode of “Who Killed WCW?”
The 4th episode of “Who Killed WCW?” will air on June 25th and will mainly focus on the final edition of WCW Nitro. The outdoor event occurred in Panama City, Florida, during Spring Break.
The more intimate than usual episode of Nitro is most well-known as the moment Vince McMahon announced to the world that he had purchased WCW, leading to Shane McMahon to appear at the end of Nitro’s broadcast – firing the first shot of what would be WWE’s infamous Invasion storyline.
Missed the first episode? Watch it in its entirety for free on YouTube here:
Several wrestlers on WWE’s NXT roster are out with injuries, including Javier Bernal, who is sidelined with a broken foot. While ‘Big Body Javi’ will be inactive for some time, Bernal took the first steps to recovery by undergoing surgery.
The injury occurred during a tag team match with Drake Morreaux, which saw them lose to Chase U (Duke Hudson & Riley Osborne) in a match that aired on the June 7 episode of NXT Level Up. During the contest, Osborne landed an over-the-top-rope Senton on Bernal outside the ring and landed on his opponent’s foot. The Columbian-American superstar immediately grabbed at his foot in pain.
On June 8, Bernal shared on X that he fractured bones in his foot and initially wanted to avoid surgery. However, after further examination, the injury was severe enough to require an operation to repair it.
Fans have responded to the unfortunate news with support and hope the NXT prospect fully recovers. In his latest update to his fanbase, Bernal shared on June 21 that he had successful surgery and is officially on the road to his return to wrestling.
On X, Bernal posted a photo of himself in a hospital bed after his surgery. He first thanked WWE and their medical team for taking care of him. Bernal shared that his surgery was done at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center in Birmingham, Alabama, with orthopedic surgeon Norman E. Waldrop, III, MD, and his staff.
Surgery was a success, my foot is still there! First ever surgery in the books. I’m a lot more coherent now, so I can clearly write a message without tweaking ? (?1/6) pic.twitter.com/YLKv9WZITN
After thanking WWE and the doctors who cared for him, Bernal posted a heartfelt message to his fiancée, Tatum Paxley, and fans for supporting him.
“Thankful for n@TatumPaxley, because I couldn’t get through this weekend without her. Every step of the way, she has taken care of me and won’t let me do anything. She is the love of my life, and it’s obvious as to why I see her as wife material,” wrote Bernal.
Lastly, Bernal admits that he’s scared about the six months of recovery that lie ahead, but he’s doing his best to keep an optimistic mindset and is grateful for the support he’s received. Bernal has his fanbase, fiancée, and WWE rooting for his return. Hopefully, he can make a full recovery and compete better than ever.
Indianapolis is making history in WWE as Triple H made a major announcement regarding WWE tentpole PLE plans in the future.
WWE released a video of Triple H and Pat McAfee revealing that the company will be making stops at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis not just for Royal Rumble this February but they’re on tap down the line for SummerSlam and even WrestleMania
This groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind partnership will bring some of @WWE’s biggest shows – and countless unforgettable moments – to the state of Indiana.
With SummerSlam happening in Cleveland, one could assume that Indianapolis will be on the agenda for that specific PLE to take place in 2025. As for WrestleMania, it’s possible that Indianapolis would host WrestleMania 43 in 2027 as WrestleMania 41 will go down in Las Vegas and WrestleMania 42 will happen in Minneapolis.
Serendipituosly enough, WWE Raw this Monday will take place in Indianapolis and McAfee has already had an interesting week when it comes to his WWE encounters. Not only was McAfee in attendence to witness the debut of The Wyatt Sicks, but the new creepy faction has interrupted the feed of The Pat McAfee Show on numerous occassions.
Raw has some matches in store for Indy as Chad Gable will take on Braun Strowman and Bronson Reed in hopes of qualifying for Money In The Bank and Karrion Kross will face Kofi Kingston as Kross has been needling Kofi for stealing the spotlight in The New Day.
Matt Riddle made sure the wrestling world knows he hasn’t forgot Randy Orton, bro.
Since being released by WWE back in September, Riddle has found his own groove on the independent wrestling scene but has had some stops in other name promotions such as NJPW and Major League Wrestling.
Riddle literally got to cool off his momentum at a Valley Wrestling Connection event over the weekend when he was wrestling The Vegan Superman outside and there so happened to be a swimming pool nearby. Matt made the most of the moment and delivered a beauty of a RKO into the deep end.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8liVrou8zx
With his release from WWE, fans were left wondering as to where Matt Riddle was going to land and he did make his return to MLW after a five-year absence. Riddle also happened to win the NJPW World TV Title for a time, but he’s really been on a roll with MLW. The Super King Of Bros has been undefeated since coming back to the league and earlier this month, he won Battle Riot VI earning him a World Title shot at the time of his choosing.
The current MLW World Champion happens to be the promotion’s first ever champion, Satoshi Kojima. Kojima beat Alex Kane for the championship and is the first person in the league to hold multiple championships at the same time.
Former WWE star 2 Cold Scorpio (Charles Scaggs) was recently apprehended after he allegedly stabbed a man at a gas station.
TMZ broke the news of his arrest and the incident took place at a Love’s Travel Stop in Kansas City, Missouri. The 58-year-old got involved in a heated argument with a customer at the gas station around 3:40 am.n
The former WWE star stated that he was working as a security guard at the store and he told the man to stop smoking inside. Reports suggest that it didn’t sit well with the customer. They moved outside while arguing and Scaggs pulled out a knife.nThe customer later denied having lit a cigarette inside the store.n
2 Cold Scorpio told the cops that he acted in self-defense and stabbed the man as he allegedly tried to attack Scaggs in the parking lot. Per reports, cops stated that they discovered a man bleeding from his head, chest, legs, stomach, and buttocks when they arrived on the scene. He was then rushed to a hospital due to his injuries. The man was reportedly been going in and out of consciousness when they found him. The victim went on to accuse 2 Cold Scorpio being the aggressor during their scuffle.
2 Cold Scorpio faces multiple charges
TMZ reported that the former 2 Cold Scorpio was arrested on June 15 and slapped with a first-degree assault charge as well as one count of armed criminal action. Scaggs pleaded not guilty to these charges and it has come to light that he is due in court next month.
2 Cold Scorpio entered the pro wrestling world in 1985 and tasted success in the 90s. During his time in WCW, he won the WCW Tag Team Championship. He went on to compete in WWE as well. He has captured major championships such as the ECW World Tag Team Championship and he is a 4-time ECW World Television Champion.
WWE NXT’s Shawn Spears and his wife Cassie Lee are once again new parents following the birth of the couple’s second child.
On Instagram, Lee shared the birth of their child Harley Dean who arrived into the world on June 21, 2024 and shared the message “you complete us.” Within hours of the news being shared, the post had gathered tens of thousands of likes as fans and those in the industry relished in the news. Natalya, Kelani Jordan, Matt Cardona, Carmella, and Renee Paquette all shared their congratulations. Lee’s long-time tag-team partner in WWE & TNA Jessica McKay said that Harley is a “sweet boy.”
Lee and Spears shared on December 24, 2023, that they were expecting Harley. This is the couple’s second child as they previously shared in August 2022 that they were expecting. Their first child, another boy named Austin Jay, was born on January 17, 2023.
It’s been five years since WWE’s worst-attended Premium Live Event, and in that time, the promotion has done incredibly well.
June 2019 saw WWE host its first (and to date, only) Stomping Grounds PLE which took place from the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington. Including the pre-show, the event saw two title changes as the Cruiserweight and United States Championships were won by Drew Gulak and Ricochet respectively.
Stomping Grounds’ Record
WWE Stomping Grounds has gone down in history for having the lowest attendance of a WWE Premium Live Event. The show saw just 3,500 fans pay to watch the show. WWE did what it could to hide this embarrassing fact, including putting large black clothes over thousands of empty seats.
n n nCountless seats were left empty and covered to avoid being seen on TV. n
n
For context, the Tacoma Dome can seat 21,000 people at max capacity, making this 3,500 figure all the more unfortunate. The venue has hosted WWE TV tapings in the past, with many of them outperforming this PLE.
Five Years Later
Plenty has changed since Stomping Ground 2019 and WWE’s business has arguably never been better. With PLEs today, WWE can issue a report about the record-breaking success of the show, a testament to the company’s good business. WWE attendances have improved with this year seeing a run of sold-out TV tapings, in addition to well-attended PLEs.
Changes backstage can also be credited for an improved product that naturally has led to high-attendance figures. The exile of Vince McMahon in January 2024 paved the way for Triple H to be unquestionably in charge of WWE’s creative team, which fans on the whole believe is for the best. Storylines are now tighter and feel more sensible than before, instead of the past which saw unnecessary twists and ideas being dropped out of nowhere.
The irony of this is that this success has come while WWE’s main rival, AEW has continued to get bigger. In 2019, AEW was still an upstart company that by the time of Stomping Grounds, had hosted just one PPV. In spite of AEW now being a bigger company since then, support for WWE and its product has only strengthened in recent years.
What’s Next?
WWE’s next PLE will be the Money in the Bank show next month, which is expected to perform very well. Between this show, SummerSlam, and the upcoming Bash In Berlin marking WWE’s first PLE in Germany, expect the company to continue to thrive and for WWE Stomping Grounds to be resigned to the annals of history.
Cheslea Green has found herself as one of the competitor’s in the women’s Money In The Bank Ladder match and she has long-term goals for the WWE Women’s Championship.
Green defeated Bianca Belair and Michin to punch her ticket to Money In The Bank on the 6/21 SmackDown, but it was an opportunistic victory. Belair happened to hit her KOD finisher on Michin, but it was Green who shoved Belair out of the way to get the 1-2-3.
Bayley saw how Green got that victory and took to social media to patronize her method of swooping in. She said she’s had her eyes on Green for months as Bayley got a little confrontational with Green during her match against Piper Niven. Green tried to interfere in the bout, but she was banned from ringside. She tried to return under a luchadora mask and Bayley threw her into the barricade before defeating Niven, which Bayley makes mention of after wishing her luck in Toronto.
“If you didn’t get a glimpse of what I’m capable of when I beat your friend Piper Niven last weekend, well, you’re really going to see a different side of me, sister. So enjoy your night for now.”
If Green does grab the briefcase and becomes the Money In The Bank winner, she does have plans for Bayley’s WWE Women’s Championship if she cashes in on the former hugger.
“When I win I’m starting a petition to change the WWE Women’s Championship back to the Divas Championship.”
When I win I’m starting a petition to change the @WWE Womens Championship back to the Divas Championship. pic.twitter.com/aOCSyTcFPG
Cheslea Green has found herself as one of the competitor’s in the women’s Money In The Bank Ladder match and she has long-term goals for the WWE Women’s Championship.
Green defeated Bianca Belair and Michin to punch her ticket to Money In The Bank on the 6/21 SmackDown, but it was an opportunistic victory. Belair happened to hit her KOD finisher on Michin, but it was Green who shoved Belair out of the way to get the 1-2-3.
Bayley saw how Green got that victory and took to social media to patronize her method of swooping in. She said she’s had her eyes on Green for months as Bayley got a little confrontational with Green during her match against Piper Niven. Green tried to interfere in the bout, but she was banned from ringside. She tried to return under a luchadora mask and Bayley threw her into the barricade before defeating Niven, which Bayley makes mention of after wishing her luck in Toronto.
“If you didn’t get a glimpse of what I’m capable of when I beat your friend Piper Niven last weekend, well, you’re really going to see a different side of me, sister. So enjoy your night for now.”
If Green does grab the briefcase and becomes the Money In The Bank winner, she does have plans for Bayley’s WWE Women’s Championship if she cashes in on the former hugger.
“When I win I’m starting a petition to change the WWE Women’s Championship back to the Divas Championship.”
When I win I’m starting a petition to change the @WWE Womens Championship back to the Divas Championship. pic.twitter.com/aOCSyTcFPG
This recap was originally written by SEScoops’ Dominic DeAngelo on MLW.com.
It’s a 22 year celebration of Major League Wrestling and the league is partying in a big way at Atlanta with a stacked lineup!
But before all that, Atlanta has to endure Sessions With Mister Saint Laurent, but thankfully his guest was Paul Walter Hauser. Hauser noted of the wrestling history Atlanta is steeped in before matters got tense between the interviewer and interviewee. However, the moment got stopped with a chairshot from Filthy Tom Lawlor!
MATCH 1 Adam Priest vs. Bobby Fish
The upstart Adam Priest was making his singles debut and was more than game for this match. He clearly did his homework on the veteran Bobby Fish. Fish was ready for strikes, but Priest evaded a lot of his moves and got his share of offense in. However a corner exploder suplex was enough to keep him down for the 1-2-3.
WINNER: Bobby Fish
A solid victory under his belt, Bobby Fish will be in the 2024 Opera Cup as he and 15 other men will compete to earn the right to hoist the cherished trophy! One of those names is a two-time winner Davey Boy Smith Jr.
DBS walks out with MSL who hypes up his client, runs down Atlanta and makes the claim that Smith will be an unparalleled three-time Opera Cup Champion. However, he must be ready for ‘The Sweet Scientist’, Timothy Thatcher.
MATCH 2 Round 1: Opera Cup Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs. Timothy Thatcher
The styles between Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Thatcher go together like PB&J and this opening round match is no different. Thatcher is tough as nails and ruthless in his offense as he focuses on breaking down DBS by targeting his arm. It has inhibited the third generation star from using the powerslam, but just like Thatcher, DBS is very durable. He happens to put Thatcher down with a massive sit-out powerbomb for the pinfall victory.
WINNER and ADVANCING: Davey Boy Smith Jr.
Post-match, Davey Boy Smith tried to sing the Canadian National Anthem before telling Atlanta they didn’t deserve it. However, third time’s a charm for his Opera Cup run.
However, the league has a big announcement as KENTA will be entering the Opera Cup! And his first round opponent? Bobby Fish!
Backstage we see AKIRA with Okomura and the MLW World Champion Satoshi Kojima. AKIRA has his pup Kota with him and promises that he’s going to take out the CONTRA Unit member Ikuro Kwon in the Opera Cup.
MATCH 3 MLW National Openweight Championship Jake Crist vs. Bad Dude Tito
This is a David vs. Goliath match and Crist’s slingshot is his speed and athleticism. Tito, however, is pretty dominant in this bout based on his strength and the numbers game. Salina de la Renta and Jesus Rodriguez are at ringside as the “ring announcer” gets a shot in on Jake. That all ultimately comes into play at the end of the match when Crist hits a swift spinning back kick to Tito’s ear. Rodriguez hops on the apron and out runs Brett Ryan Gosselin, he grabs Crist by the neck and drops him over the top rope. Tito then hits his Steiner Screwdriver finisher for the 1-2-3!
WINNER and STILL MLW National Openweight Champion: Bad Dude Tito
Backstage, David Marquez catches up with Cesar Duran who says he’s not been a part of Salina’s life as a father to make her stronger. That makes him a good father who cares. Marquez questions that tactic and Duran gets confrontational.
MLW Original CW Anderson is in the crowd for all the anniversary action as the crowd salutes one of the Extreme Four Horsemen.
We cut to Marquez once again who catches up with Matt Riddle. The Battle Riot winner isn’t sure when he’s going to cash in his golden ticket but all is stopped when Sami Callihan comes in to ambush him. The two rivals begin brawling and the feed gets cut!
Bobby Fish is on commentary for the next fight as he looks to scout the Opera Cup bracket.
MATCH 4 Round 1: Opera Cup Ikuro Kwon vs. AKIRA
Styles indeed make fights and the two styles of Kwon and AKIRA mirror one another. This battle is very hard-hitting as Kwon has AKIRA’s number in a lot of the exchanges. The Death Fighter gets rocked by a monkey flip in the corner that sends AKIRA into the ring post! Kicks, suplexes and submissions are in full-force as AKIRA looks to keep Kwon grounded. He manages to do that with an impressive kicking and striking sequence before cinching in an ankle lock. The resiliency of Kwon is on display but an eventual Death Penalty is good enough to get the pinfall win!
WINNER and ADVANCING: AKIRA
We cut to Filthy Tom Lawlor who was asked about his actions against Hauser. Lawlor said Hauser did this to himself because he poses as a pro wrestler and calls the credited actor a “fat pud!” We find out later on that Hauser was taken to a local Atlanta hospital.
We catch more footage of Riddle and Sami continuing to fight backstage as order is aiming to get restored!
MATCH 5 MLW World Middleweight Championship Star Jr. vs. Mistico (c)
Before the bout starts, Mistico offers a handshake in a matter of respect and Star. Jr obliges. This battle is a symphony of athleticism as both luchadors have one another well scouted. Mistico hits a beautiful arm drag and a head scissors to show Star Jr. why he’s indeed champ. Atlanta chants for Mistico as he executes a beautiful headscissors.
Star Jr. finally turns the tide towards him with a big boot in the ring and hits a hard strike to down Mistico. Mistico though, ultimately puts Star down with his spinning Fujiwa armbar.
WINNER and STILL MLW World Middleweight Champion: Mistico
Post-fight, Star Jr and Mistico shake hands once again before Mistico is interviewed at the top of the ramp. He expresses his love for the Middleweight gold and the love for MLW fans!
It’s a full circle moment for this match as Jazzy Yang, is Jimmy Yang’s daughter. At 21 years of age, she’s making her Major League debut, just like Yang did 22 years ago! Yang is in the crowd to watch his daughter compete and she’s got some tough competition in Yamashita and Dani Jordyn.
Jazzy shows her spunk as she gets some offense in against Yamashita, hitting a beautiful spinning leg kick. Jordyn gets a near win before Yamashita strikes Jordyn. She tosses Yang out and focuses on Dani. However, Yang gets more involved when she catches both women on the outside with a top rope dive!
Miyu manages to isolate Jordyn once more as she nails her with a powerful modified Attitude Adjustment and it keeps Dani down for the 1-2-3!
WINNER: Miya Yamashita
Cameras catch up with Sami Callihan as he’s finally been separated from Riddle and issues one more final challenge to The Super King of Bros: he wants any type of match at Blood & Thunder! Will Riddle accept?
MLW takes time to honor the legendary Gary Juster who has promoted fights and helped produce many wrestling shows over the years. Juster is humbled and grateful for the honor! #ThankYouGary!
MAIN EVENT Bull Rope Match 1 Called Manders vs. Mads Krule Krugger
Manders wastes no time in this fight as he takes it to Krugger and introduces the bull rope violence quite quickly. Krugger’s bloodlust may be unparalleled as he happens to hang Manders over the ropes with the Bullrope!
The violence gets amped up when a table is set up in the middle of the ring and Krugger possibly plans to chokeslam Manders through it while up top. Manders bites the forehead of Krugger and superplexes the monster through the table! Manders musters up enough strength to charge at Krugger and nails him with a big-time lariat! Kruger is OUT and Manders goes to cover him, but Krugger grabs him by the throat. Manders amps up the adrenaline and begins HAMMERING Krugger with the cowbell. Manders tangles Krugger in the rope and pulls down his arm pad, ready for another lariat, but in comes Janai Kai with a harsh roundhouse kick! Kruger hits a inverted full nelson and nails Manders for the 1-2-3!
WINNER: Mads Krule Krugger
Post-fight, Kruger has some ritualistic violence in store for Manders as he buries his head in a bucket in front of the CONTRA insurgents and even nails him with the bully club!
CONTRA begins to drag Manders backstage as Matthew Justice runs in to save his Second Gear Crew companion but is cut off at the pass by Ikuro Kwon and Minoru Suzuki! Manders is dragged off by Krugger!
We finally get to see Salina meet up with Duran and although she’s late on a Father’s Day gift, it is quite the gift: Salina is PREGNANT! Duran looks pleased at being a grandfather as the Anniversary show ends!
