It’s been years since Ronda Rousey competed in a UFC cage, but WWE’s Ivy Nile is eager to step into the Octagon with the former Women’s Champion.
Rousey last competed for WWE at SummerSlam 2023, where she lost the first-ever MMA Rules match to Shayna Baszler. After Rousey informed WWE of her plans to finish up her career at SummerSlam, WWE fast-tracked her feud with Baszler. Rousey reportedly wanted to feud with her fellow MMA horsewoman to give her friend a singles spotlight.
Ronda Rousey Vs. Ivy Nile
Before her impressive WWE career, Rousey dominated in the world of UFC and was arguably the first female fighter to become a name in the mainstream. While Rousey hasn’t fought in close to a decade, Ivy Nile is interested in throwing down. Speaking with Fightful, Nile was asked who she’d like to face in MMA.
“Is Meisha Tate still in the UFC? I think the world of her. I love her. I’m a huge fan of Ronda Rousey too. I think I would do pretty well going toe-to-toe, I think we’re better off as allies.”
More on Ivy Nile
The first female champion of NBC’s “Titan Games,” Ivy Nile has a background in CrossFit, Jiu Jitsu, and weightlifting. In 2021, she joined the Diamond Mine in WWE NXT, which would put her in a team with Brutus and Julius Creed. Last year, the three were called up to the main roster and signed with Monday Night Raw.
Dolph Ziggler was one of the more surprising releases that WWE handed down in September 2023. Since then, he has appeared for NJPW and made his TNA Wrestling debut as well. It seems that he wanted to get started on his life after WWE prior to his release, because he asked WWE to let him go in the past.
Nic Nemeth’s WWE Release
Now going as Nic Nemeth, he has garnered attention post his WWE departure with his ventures in the pro wrestling realm.
Nemeth showed up during NJPW during last month’s Wrestle Kingdom event, where he has since participated in various matches. Additionally, he has begun working in TNA Wrestling following his promotional debut at the Hard to Kill pay-per-view event.
Ziggler was let go by WWE alongside several other wrestlers due to budget cuts after the sale to Endeavor. He had been with WWE since 2004, predominantly featured as an upper-mid card talent, and held the Intercontinental and United States Titles multiple times.
During a conversation with Denise Salcedo, Nemeth revealed that he had requested his release from WWE several times with the intention of returning, but WWE consistently refused, citing their need for him.
“It would be different if I was hobbling around or if I didn’t get reactions or wasn’t good at my job. I would be happy to take a backseat and help people out. But I’m sitting around six days a week, not working, basically in the prime of my career. So let’s get going. And so I said, ‘How about this? How about I leave for six months? How about I leave for a year?’ How about I get the hell out of here?’ But even a couple of years ago, when they said yes, the next Sunday, I’d get a phone call saying, ‘Hey, we need you.’ It’s great.”
Nemeth also reminisced about sending an email to WWE officials, including Vince McMahon, expressing his heartfelt thoughts about his situation. In the email, he outlined both positives and negatives of how he felt. McMahon was the sole individual to acknowledge the message and expressed a desire to have a conversation. Approximately two weeks after this email exchange transpired, Nemeth received his release from the company.
What’s Next
Nic Nemeth is still taking stand-up comedy dates, and he’s doing his thing in TNA Wrestling. At this time, we haven’t heard about him coming into AEW, but you never know what the future will hold for the former Dolph Ziggler.
SEScoops will keep our eye on this story for more developments.
AEW is expected to bring in former WWE Superstar Mercedes Mone. A big date is set for Boston, and many are expecting her to show up on Collision. WWE was in the game for her, but it was already reported that they hit a financial roadblock. That being said, it seems that Mone wasn’t even asking for more than someone on the top of the Women’s Division is making.
Mercedes Mone’s Big Pay Day
AEW has a ton of money to throw around, but that hasn’t kept everyone around. Tony Khan admitted that he offered Jade Cargill more than she asked for to stay in AEW, but she is now a WWE Superstar. Mercedes Mone saw that money on the table and she took it.
Tony Khan has a lot of money to spend on AEW contracts. He has a reported net worth of $1 billion. His father, Shahid Khan, has a net worth of 11.7 billion. Mercedes Mone made it clear that she’s going to where the money is, and AEW was able to offer more.
During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that Mercedes Mone asked WWE for a lot of money, but it wasn’t more than the top female Superstar is getting. One would assume that he is talking about Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch, because they have the top paychecks in the women’s division.
“I don’t know her actual money demands, but I know in a general what she was looking for from WWE, and it was kinda in the range, and for a star of her caliber, while it would be a little bit more than WWE would be paying her, what she was looking for, maybe even more than a little bit more, but it was not more than they pay other women, and she was one of their bigger stars.”
AEW outbid WWE, and they’re getting The Boss. It was then stated that what this tells us is that when AEW is able to outbid for Mone, that they may be losing out on the deal financially. That being said, it’s not enough to worry the company, because “we would see it, because there would be talent cut.”
What’s Next
It is very much expected that Mercedes Mone will debut for AEW at their March 13th episode of Dynamite, that Big Business show in Boston’s TD Garden will provide the former Sasha Banks with a grand entrance for AEW in her hometown.
On a totally unrelated note, but I couldn’t resist from including this, AEW also rolled out a similar red carpet for CM Punk’s debut. They booked a large arena in Chicago without announcing Punk’s debut. They simply strongly alluded to it by naming that episode of Rampage “The First Dance.”
Of course, CM Punk and Sasha Banks both walked out of WWE. At this point, Punk is back in WWE, albeit he’s on the shelf due to an untimely injury. Now, it’s Mercedes Mone’s time to get a spotlight in AEW.
Scott D’Amore was unexpectedly ousted from TNA Wrestling, with reports indicating that the decision was made prior to the promotion’s rebranding.
Subsequently, it was reported that several TNA talents joined forces and endorsed a letter to Anthem, expressing their discontent with D’Amore’s departure from the company. Mike Johnson of PWInsider reports the letter that was released online (by Fightful) was incomplete, large portions were left out.
The report suggests that there are still talents who remain unhappy with the entire D’Amore situation and are awaiting to see, “how they are addressed and treated at the New Orleans tapings next week.”
Scott D’Amore was part of TNA’s foundation and the fallout from his abrupt departure is still unfolding. One wrestler we spoke with said management has been good communicating the changes to creative and the backstage structure, but they’re in a holding pattern until the next show and there’s an overall feeling of uncertainty.
Last week’s debunked report by Dave Meltzer that Tommy Dreamer has taken over as the new head of TNA creative did not help matters. Dreamer addressed the rumor on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio and set the record straight. He called the Wrestling Observer scoop “fictitious” and said he, RD Evans and Delirious are continuing their roles as usual as they embark on yet another new era for TNA .
Following the recent arrival of Nic Nemeth (former WWE Star Dolph Ziggler), we’ve seen hype for Mustafa Ali’s TNA debut. who challenges for the X-Division championship later this month on pay-per-view at TNA No Surrender. Overall, there’s a feeling of cautious excitement and we’ll have a much better idea of where things stand by the end of February 2024.
Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania will host WrestleMania 40 on April 6 and 7, 2024. LA Knight doesn’t want to miss the showcase of the immortals this year, and odds are he will find himself in a rather important match.
WWE’s WrestleMania Plan For LA Knight
WWE has a lot of options for WrestleMania, and they want to make sure their biggest stars are represented. LA Knight has a massive fan base at this point, and this latest update could get them very excited about the show of shows.
I reported on February 8th that WWE had an idea for LA Knight that would see him battle Logan Paul for the United States Title. It appears that they have narrowed down their options and are very possibly going with that idea.
LA Knight will get a #WrestleMania match. There are still options, and discussions were still going for the rest of the card as of yesterday.
I’ve been told one idea would see him get a title shot. ?Keep in mind … There are a lot of matches being discussed for Mania, that's…
During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that WWE had those plans for LA Knight at WrestleMania. This could see him walk out of the showcase of the immortals as US Champion, because that match was the plan.
“That was the plan I don’t still know if it is the plan but that was discussed at one point.”
What’s Next
Only time will tell if LA Knight is able to beat Logan Paul for the WWE United States Title at WrestleMania 40. He has certainly worked hard over the past year and seen a huge rise in popularity.
The Elimination Chamber could also see LP and LA have a chance to jumpstart their feud, because they are both in the unforgiving structure for that big match in Perth.
SEScoops will have more on this story as additional information is made available.
Welcome to SEScoops’ Daily Drop – a rundown of the top stories in pro wrestling all in one place.
Our mission is to provide our readers with the most important and interesting news from WWE, AEW and more that’s timely, informative and engaging. The Daily Drop is a destination where you can get a snapshot of the top stories in wrestling.
WrestleMania 40 COUNTDOWN: 49 days away
Here’s the Daily Drop news report for Wednesday, February 17, 2024:
WWE
– The Rock officially joined The Bloodline during the February 16th episode of WWE SmackDown. That closing segment of the show did not feature any match getting booked for WrestleMania 40, but they are well on their way to cementing a match.
– Shotzi is still pretty devastated over her serious knee injury. Her NXT Women’s Title match against Lyra Valkyria ended in terrible fashion with an injury, and she will likely miss a lot of time.
– After a lot of speculation about where he would land, Bron Breakker finally signed with WWE’s SmackDown brand. He is still 1/2 of the NXT Tag Team Champions, but he did not have his title with him during the 2/16 episode of the blue brand.
AEW
– Mercedes Mone is hyping an upcoming fight, and this is right in time for the hype before AEW’s Big Business special episode of Dynamite on March 13. The TD Garden will likely see the former Sasha Banks make her debut for the company during that show.
– AEW Dynamite: Big Business is coming to Boston’s TD Garden on March 13th.
– AEW Revolution takes place the following weekend on Sunday, March 3.
– WWE NXT Stand & Deliver will be on the afternoon of April 6th, right before the first night of WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia.
– WrestleMania XL will take place on April 6th and 7th at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, airing as a two-part event.
– Backlash France will be held on May 4th at LDLC Arena in Décines-Charpieu, France.
– WWE NXT Battleground is scheduled for May 26th at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, Georgia, and will be available exclusively on the WWE Network and Peacock.
– WWE Money in the Bank will take place on July 6th at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, followed by WWE NXT Heatwave on July 7th at the same venue.
– WWE Bash In Berlin is set for August 31st at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin, Germany.
WWE legend Shane McMahon’s son Kenyon McMahon recently made the announcement that he has committed to play college football.
Each of Shane’s sons has impressed in their respective athletic fields. Kenyon McMahon is now committed to college football as a safety and wideout for UNC. With his brother Declan playing for Indiana University, eyes are on Kenyon McMahon as well.
Meanwhile, Shane McMahon has not appeared on WWE television since suffering an injury in a match against The Miz at WrestleMania 39.
Kenyon McMahon: I’m extremely blessed and excited
Shane’s son Kenyon McMahon took to social media and announced his commitment to play college football for the University of North Carolina. The post reads:
“I’m extremely blessed and excited to announce my commitment to play football at the University of North Carolina. #GoHeels”
I’m extremely blessed and excited to announce my commitment to play football at the University of North Carolina. #GoHeelspic.twitter.com/gmETMhwilK
Kenyon is listed at 6’1?, 170-pound, and played safety and wide receiver at Poly Prep Country Day School in Brooklyn, New York.
Meanwhile, Declan McMahon started with Indiana University in 2023 and is listed as a running back, but did not see a snap last season.
At WWE Fastlane last year, Declan appeared alongside other Indiana Hoosiers football team players. Speaking with Jim Varsallone of the Miami Herald, Declan discussed focusing on his football career. However, he also stated that he has been impressed by the WWE’s Performance Center.
“I went down there once and it’s gorgeous. Obviously being in Florida, which is one of the greatest places to live. Especially with state tax and everything. The weight room in there [the Performance Center] is amazing. They’ve got a ton of rings. It’s just great because obviously when you’re wrestling it’s not only about how you look it’s about how safe you can be and how you can protect who you’re in the ring with.”
Well, someday Declan could hit the squared circle just like his father. He also has his debut plan plotted and you can read about it below:
Pro Wrestling legend Tommy Dreamer recently snubbed the reports of replacing Scott D’Amore as TNA Head of Creative. Now, more reports have come to light regarding who is the captain of the ship.
D’Amore was recently released as TNA President and has been replaced by Anthem Entertainment’s President Anthony Cicione. Reports suggest that Anthem, TNA’s parent company, wanted to have a closer connection to the promotion and thus Cicione was appointed.
“Ariel Shnerer will be overseeing all TNA content going forward and will be working in conjunction with new TNA President Anthony Cicione. It will be Shnerer who will have the last word on any talent and creative decisions, although Cicione will be the top of the pyramid.”
Shnerer is the former General Manager of the Fight Network and has been associated with TNA since Anthem acquired the company. He has made appearances on TV from time to time as Dr. Ariel.
However, he has been a key figure backstage and manages the distribution of TNA across Anthem. He was involved in bagging TNA’s deal for DAZN and several TNA streaming deals for Roku and Pluto TV, among other platforms. He also lead the way for the launch of TNA+ streaming service.
In addition to this, the outlet has reported that the existing TNA Creative team of Tommy Dreamer, RD Evans and Hunter “Delirious” Johnston “will remain in place and continue to work as they did prior to Scott D’Amore’s departure.”
Moreover, TNA Hall of Famer Gail Kim will be supporting the group as she was one of the top officials for the company backstage in the past and has been heavily involved whether it’s talent relations or production.
It has also come to light that Jorge Barbosa has joined the creative process. Barbosa served as a Senior Producer for Anthem Sports & Entertainment for a long time and was the person behind all Fight Network Diary documentaries that focused on TNA and MMA personalities.
Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) is currently one of the hottest free agents in the market and she has teased the fans about her upcoming move.
Moné had a successful run with WWE before she departed in 2022 due to issues with the creative team. The former ‘Boss’ went on to make her mark in NJPW and World Wonder Ring Stardom while also becoming the IWGP Women’s Champion. Now, it seems that she is AEW-bound.
In WWE, Moné captured the Women’s Tag Team Titles three times, two of which with Bayley. It has come to light that ‘The Role Model’ recently sent a touching message to her best friend, Mercedes Moné, and expressed her gratitude for their run together in the company.
Taking to Twitter/X, Bayley shared a picture of herself and Moné with the Women’s Tag Team Championships and wrote:
“And we fought for them for over 6 years. For our division and more opportunity. Grateful for my time with you,” she wrote.
It seems that Moné has already inked a deal with AEW and has been on AEW’s payroll since early January. It’s worth noting that Moné also made her presence felt at AEW All In: London last year.
We will have to wait and see if Mercedes Moné shows up in AEW on March 13.
WWE SmackDown Superstar Shotzi has shared her heartbreak after her recent injury robbed her of a potential spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match.
This injury meant that Shotzi could not compete at this week’s SmackDown, where she was set to compete in an Elimination Chamber qualifying match. Had Shotzi won this qualifier and won inside the Chamber, she would have competed for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania 40.
Taking to Twitter, Shotzi expressed her disappointment over being robbed of such a golden opportunity.
I don’t have much to say right now other than I am devastated. It’s heartbreaking to be missing my Elimination Chamber opportunity tonight. But I just wanted to wish all the women competing good luck. I’ll open up more about how I’m feeling and my injury later. @WWE
With Shotzi out of the picture, this week’s SmackDown saw Naomi and Tiffany Stratton qualify for the match with victories over Alba Fyre and Zelina Vega respectively. Naomi and Stratton now join Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, and Liv Morgan. A battle royal will determine the final entrant in the match.
Brogan Finlay’s WWE in-ring debut saw him share the ring with another multi-generational Superstar this week.
Finlaym the brother of New Japan’s David Finlay, signed with WWE in December of last year. He has been competing since 2021 and has worked for GCW, New Japan, Wrestling Revolver, Black Label Pro, and Blitzkrieg! Pro to name just a few companies.
At last night’s WWE NXT event in Tampa, Florida, Finlay added WWE to the list of promotions he has worked for. In his in-ring debut, he faced Charlie Dempsey. Unfortunately for Finlay, it was the No Quarter Catch Crew member who got the win.
It’s fitting that Finlay faced Dempsey in his WWE NXT debut, as the pair’s fathers also had some wars in the ring. Fit Finlay and William Regal feuded in WCW, with Finlay making his debut in the promotion with an attack on the Blackpool brawler. Years later, the pair would be forced to face off for Finlay’s U.S. title at Great American Bash 2006, after Bobby Lashley, Finlay’s original opponent, failed his medical test. Finlay bested Regal at the WWE pay-per-view to retain.
On Twitter, Finlay made reference to the fact that their fathers fought in the past.
Fans can expect a night of excitement during next week’s SmackDown as the show has been taped in advance.
Next week’s show, like this week’s episode, will take place in Salt Lake City, Utah. The show was taped following last night’s live episode, as WWE will be heading to Australia next week for Elimination Chamber: Perth.
WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth
WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth will take place from Optus Stadium on February 24. The show will mark WWE’s first Premium Live Event down under since the 2018 Super Showdown event. four matches have been confirmed for the show, including two Elimination Chamber matches with WrestleMania-sized implications.
Here are the results of next week’s episode of WWE SmackDown:
Tiffany Stratton clinched victory over Liv Morgan using a small package
A vignette featuring Ashante Thee Adonis & Cedric is shown.
A segment featuring The Bloodline is shown.
Bron Breakker defeated Dante Chen.
Pete Dunne & Tyler Bate defeated The Judgment Day (Dominik Mysterio & JD McDonagh)
Another Bloodline backstage segment
The Authors of Pain secured a victory against the Street Profits.
An Elimination Chamber package is shown on the screen.
The match between Drew McIntyre and LA Knight ended in a disqualification. After the match, the Men’s Elimination Chamber participants brawled with Randy Orton standing tall at the end
This week’s episode of WWE SmackDown went off the air with a huge addition to the Bloodline…
Finally – The Rock is back to his 1998 Corporate form, but “The People’s Champ” makes it clear that version of him never left.
The Rock officially joined The Bloodline to close out WWE SmackDown and fans of the WWE Attitude Era had to have been shell-shocked when Rocky sauntered out in Salt Lake City. He didn’t come out with Under Armour merchandise, nor did he walk out in WWE Shop merch, but in his classic “corporate” $500 shirt. The Rock just wasn’t wearing that “attitude” but spoke it on the microphone. In classic Rock fashion, he pulled the rug out from under the Salt Lake City fans by stating they set an indoor attendance record, but not for what Utah expected.
“You broke the all-time record for the largest gathering of trailer park trash The Rock has ever seen!”
The Rock wound up his “Finally…” catchphrase to spin that on its head to to reference the city’s large Mormon population.
“Finally your life has meaning! Finally you and your 50 wives will have a story to tell and you know what I’m talking about. You’ll have a story to tell your 600 inbred grandchildren one day and that is what it’s like to look at greatness in the flesh because finally The Rock has come back to Salt Lake City!”
Dwayne Johnson also hearkened back to an old Ric Flair trick by referencng a “fat boy” fan in the crowd. He then went on to say the fans had the biggest WrestleMania match in history set up between The Rock and Roman Reigns, stating that they had it in their hands but they let it go. He then proceeded to add a little more color to it.
“You flushed it down the toilet. The same toilet you sat your fat a**ess on and you sat there and Tweeted ‘We want Cody! We want Cody! Cody’s gotta finish his story! He’s gotta finish his story!’ You’re laughing now and you’re booing because it’s true.”
The Rock then claimed that he’ll do everything in his power to make sure Cody Rhodes walks out of WrestleMania 40 a loser. He then began to start his “If ya smell” tagline, but stopped himself to deliver another signature line the fans haven’t heard for over 20 years.
“Sing-along with The Rock is over! You lost that privelage. Sit there and shut your mouth and enjoy the ride that The Rock is taking you on! If ya smeeeelll what The Bloodline is cookin’!”
The return of a classic version of The Rock sat well with a great contingency of fans on social media so much that “Hollywood Rock,” “Heel Rock” and even “Versace” were trending on X at the end of the evening.
WrestleMania 40’s landscape was changed in a big way when The Rock made his way back to the company. He took Cody Rhodes’ spot against Roman Reigns, but fans had a lot to say about that. Now, Mania has a much different setup.
The Rock Returns To Salt Lake City
Roman Reigns made his way to the ring during the final segment of SmackDown this week. He hyped up the crowd, and then he said that tonight is historic, because The Rock has joined The Bloodline.
Then The Rock made his way to the ring, complete in a shirt that was straight out of his Hollywood heel character from years ago. He welcomed himself back to Salt Lake City, and he announced a new all-time in-door attendance record.
The Rock
The Great One proceeded to berate fans for being Cody Crybabies and causing the WrestleMania main event to change. He wondered what is Cody’s story anyway, because Roman beat Cody last year, and now he wants a rematch.
While bringing up how Michael Jordan once crushed the Utah Jazz’s dreams decades ago, The Rock drew even more boos from the crowd. He said that you don’t get another shot at a story, just because you want it … just ask the 1998 Utah Jazz.
The Rock called fans a bunch of “crybaby bitches” and they should “sit down” and enjoy the ride that he’s taking us on. In the end, he said “if you smell what The Bloodline is cooking.” They concluded the night without booking any WrestleMania match, but things are certainly taking shape.
I exclusively reported on SEScoops that a source within WWE confirmed that The Rock initially intended to have a match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. The current situation regarding the show wasn’t what The Rock initially wanted, suggesting it wasn’t part of an initial plan. He later agreed that Cody Rhodes versus Roman Reigns should be the main event match.
Since the start, I’ve mentioned that plans were set, and the only individual capable of altering them is The Rock. That’s precisely what occurred, pleasing “Cody crybabies” who wish to witness The American Nightmare conclude his storyline.
The Rock voiced his wish for a match against Roman Reigns on January 1st, appearing on the Day 1 episode of RAW. Shortly after, the match was organized, despite Cody Rhodes winning the 2024 Royal Rumble match. Triple H was aware of the agreement for Rock vs Reigns.
Fan backlash and mainstream attention prompted The Rock to change course. Now, we have a brand-new vibe for WrestleMania 40.
SEScoops will have complete coverage of this story as more updates are made available.
A week after making her in-ring SmackDown debut, Tiffany Stratton now finds herself in contention for a shot at the WWE Women’s World Championship.
On Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown, Stratton faced Zelina Vega in a qualifying match for the upcoming Women’s Elimination Chamber. After a colorful eight-minute battle, Stratton nailed Vega with the Prettiest Moonsault Ever to secure the pinfall, and the fourth spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match.
A Tiffy Message
On the heels of her win, Stratton delivered a bold message to the WWE Universe, vowing to become the youngest Elimination Chamber winner in WWE history.
I told everyone that SmackDown officially runs on Tiffy time, and are we even shocked that I qualified? Because I’m not,” Stratton said. “I just had a Tiffany epiphany — in Perth, Australia, I’m going to become the youngest-ever Elimination Chamber winner. That’s like history-making stuff. And could you imagine how mad everyone would be? I would love it.”
WWE’s 2024 Elimination Chamber event will take place on February 24, emanating from the Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia. Alongside Stratton, the likes of Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Naomi, and one more competitor to be determined will compete inside the grueling chamber structure at the premium live event.
Elsewhere on the card, Australia native Rhea Ripley will defend the WWE Women’s World Championship against a fellow Australian-born competitor — Nia Jax. The winner of this title match will then put the Women’s World Championship on the line against the winner of the Women’s Elimination Chamber at WrestleMania 40.
WWE saw some big moments during the 2024 Royal Rumble event. One of the more exciting debuts came when Bron Breakker made his way to Tropicana Field. He took Bron Breakker’s spot in the big match, and now he has an official main roster home.
Bron Breakker’s WWE Main Roster Home
This week on SmackDown, Nick Aldis took the stage on the show. He didn’t have much time to make the big announcement, so he got right to work.
Aldis introduced Bron Breakker, who came out without his NXT Tag Team Title. Breakker was very happy to be on the blue brand, and he quickly signed a contract with the SmackDown logo on the top of it.
This marks a big step for Bron Breakker. It was initially thought when he was called up that RAW when he made his Royal Rumble debut on the main roster. Those plans were never locked in. Now, he will be on the blue brand, with his debut going down next week on SmackDown.
WWE has a lot of plans as they head down the road to WrestleMania. This week on SmackDown, they made even more advancements toward the Elimination Chamber. The event is scheduled for Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium located in the Perth suburb of Burswood, Western Australia, Australia. It will commence at 5:00 AM EST, and 2:00 AM for fans residing on the West Coast.
Logan Paul beat The Miz in a qualifying match on SmackDown this week. That punched his ticket for the Elimination Chamber match. Now, the men’s match is set.
Kevin Owens, LA Knight, Drew McIntyre, Randy Orton, Bobby Lashley and Logan Paul will be in the 2024 Men’s Elimination Chamber match. The winner of the contest will get a shot at Seth Rollins’ WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
This was a big win for Logan Paul. He will not have to defend the United States Title in Perth. He also made a quip about how he plans to take Rollins’ title to become a double champion in WWE.
As of this writing, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan and Tiffany Stratton will be joined by two other Superstars to make up the 2024 Women’s elimination Chamber match.
2024 WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth Premium Live Event Card:
The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) vs. British Strong Style (Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) – Tag team match for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship
Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair vs. Liv Morgan vs. Tiffany Stratton vs. Naomi and TBD – Elimination Chamber match for a Women’s World Championship match at WrestleMania XL
Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Nia Jax – Singles match for the Women’s World Championship
Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton vs. Bobby Lashley vs. LA Knight vs. Kevin Owens vs. Logan Paul – Elimination Chamber match for a World Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleMania XL
SEScoops will have more on this story as more information is available.
Friday’s episode of AEW Rampage featured a singles match between “The Queenslayer” Anna Jay and rising star Queen Aminata. Jay and Aminata battle back and forth for much of the contest, but in the end, it was Aminata who emerged victorious after nailing Jay with a headbutt.
Following Queen Aminata’s win, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed that the former GCW Women’s Champion is officially All Elite, highlighting the fact that tonight marked Aminata’s first televised AEW victory.
Congratulations to Queen Aminata! She just won her first ever @AEWonTV match tonight, and now it's official: Queen @amisylle is ALL ELITE!
Aminata previously claimed a tag team win alongside Skye Blue on the YouTube-oriented AEW Dark show in September 2022.
Boosting The Women’s Division
Queen Aminata also marks the third announced signing for AEW’s women’s division in recent months, behind the likes of Deonna Purrazzo and Mariah May.
May’s arrival to All Elite Wrestling materialized in early November as she professed her admiration for current AEW Women’s Champion Toni Storm. In the weeks following, May began working her way into the Storm’s good graces, eventually earning herself the role of Storm’s assistant.
On January 3, May made her official AEW in-ring debut in a match against Queen Aminata. As she reveled in her subsequent victory, May was interrupted by “The Virtuosa” Deonna Purrazzo, who returned to All Elite Wrestling in the wake of her exit from Impact/TNA Wrestling.
Mercedes Mone To AEW?
In addition to Queen Aminata, Mariah May, and Deonna Purrazzo, AEW seems poised to welcome in another notable player next month.
With the recent announcement of AEW Big Business on March 13, reports indicated that former WWE RAW Women’s Champion Mercedes Mone (also known as Sasha Banks) is expected to debut there. Big Business, of course, will be emanating from Mone’s hometown of Boston, Massachusetts.
WWE has a lot of things going on, and The Rock’s return for the road to WrestleMania certainly stirred the pot. The rumor mill is churning in overtime as well, and that leads us to one story that needs to be squashed.
Debunking Triple H vs The Rock
Several fans are talking about a rumor regarding Triple H and The Rock filming a promo hinting at a match against each other at WrestleMania 40. However, there is no truth to the notion that such a promo was filmed, let alone that the match will take place.
I reported on February 10th that there is no chance that match will happen. Triple H’s cardiac issues forced him into retirement. Also, as COO of WWE, he has a lot on his plate and couldn’t possibly wrestle.
I asked around about a POSSIBILITY of Triple H vs The Rock being a destination of any kind.
Trips did drop some blatant jabs, after all.
I was told ? “No. No chance at all” of that match happening.
PW Insider confirmed my report, and they also wrote a little about where this entire rumor might have started. Aside from Triple H throwing some obvious Rock references toward The Great One on SmackDown, it is evident that the match isn’t happening.
There is absolutely zero truth to the idea that was even filmed, much less that it’s going to happen. I’m not sure where that started but it seemed as if the alleged verbiage was actually from a faceoff the two had nearly a decade ago for a tease of a bout that never actually happened. There’s not a lot that I would say can never happen in WWE, but Paul Levesque returning for a main event level match after his heart issues – that one I absolutely do not see, especially if people are assuming it based on such a silly report.
You never know what can happen in WWE, but Triple H is not coming back for another match. The Rock has a WrestleMania match in mind now, and it is only a matter of time before fans find out that he will team with Roman Reigns to take on Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40.
SEScoops will have continued coverage of this story.
Paul Heyman believes that Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins are destined for the “Ocean of Obsurity” and the two stars will begin to set sail on this Friday’s SmackDown.
Heyman took to his Instagram to make a bold proclamation before both his “Tribal Chief” and “The People’s Champion” The Rock show up in Salt Lake City
Ladies and Gentlemen, today is a picture-perfect day to ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR TRIBAL CHIEF!
“As WWE tries to grasp the enormity of the events that transpired at the #WrestleMania Kickoff Event in Las Vegas, I remind you that yet another chapter shall unfold tomorrow, LIVE on FOX as #Smackdown will feature not only your humble #Wiseman and the reigning defending Undisputed #WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns but also The #PeoplesChamp The Rock!
“While Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins face an uncertain future, condemned to live life after #WM40 in the Ocean of Obscurity, it is quite apparent the #Bloodline’s rule on the Island of Relevancy has never been more powerful! The Delta Center in #SaltLakeCity will be the setting, and The People’s Slap was only the beginning of what’s to come next.”
“The People’s Slap” sure conjured up a lot of conversation and on WWE Raw this past Monday, Cody Rhodes promised retaliation against The Rock. As Heyman mentioned, Rhodes will not be without a “Shield” in Seth Rollins who offered his helping hand in dealing with The Bloodline.
Right now, it’s Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, but where The Rock may fit in the equation remains a question mark, with many speculating a tag team match on night one.
TNA Wrestling’s Tommy Dreamer has refuted the claim that he is now running TNA’s creative department following the dismissal of Scott D’Amore.
D’Amore was released as TNA President last week and has been replaced by Anthem Entertainment’s President Anthony Cicione. Anthem, TNA’s parent company, reportedly wanted to have a closer connection to the promotion, hence the appointment of Cicione.
“Oof. I’m so glad people know things about my life that I don’t know… Thanks for the promotion. I hope I get a raise with this fictitious position. Because if I was head of creative, you know Moose is losing the [TNA World] title to me at whatever the next show is.”
After some laughs, Dreamer made clear that he had not been promoted to Head of Creative.
“It’s the same deal as always before. It really and truly is. Nothing has changed within the creative process. Thank you very much.”
The TNA locker room isn’t going to let D’Amore go without a fight…
WWE switched up their commentary team recently, as Kevin Patrick was moved off the blue brand. Now, he is breaking his silence on his WWE exit, as abrupt as it was. He is excited about his next steps in the broadcasting world.
Kevin Patrick Speaks on WWE Release
I broke the news that WWE removed Kevin Patrick from his role on the SmackDown commentary team. This came as a bit of a surprise for some fans, but others welcomed the change. WWE moved Wade Barrett over to SmackDown alongside Corey Graves, and Pat McAfee returned to WWE so he could call RAW alongside his buddy, Michael Cole.
Kevin Patrick is now breaking his silence about his WWE release. He also had nothing but great things to say.
While taking to Twitter/X, Kevin gave his love to WWE. The company provided him with an excellent platform to execute his craft on. His stint on the main roster wasn’t a lengthy one, but he had an incredible experience.
Nothing but love for 3 incredible years at WWE! From the exhilarating experiences & all the brilliant friends I worked with along the way, I’m flooded with gratitude. In saying that, it was time to turn the page, and I couldn’t be more excited for this new chapter! Cheers
Nothing but love for 3 incredible years at WWE! From the exhilarating experiences & all the brilliant friends I worked with along the way, I’m flooded with gratitude. In saying that, it was time to turn the page, and I couldn’t be more excited for this new chapter! Cheers ??
Kevin Patrick already has a new gig. Major League Soccer has revealed that Patrick, while going by his real name Kevin Egan, will join the panel for the second season of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. MLS Season Pass offers extensive coverage, encompassing every regular season match, Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, the MLS All-Star Game, and Leagues Cup matches.
SE Scoops will have continued coverage of this story and so many more. Our best goes out to Kevin Patrick as he starts his road after WWE.
Jeff Hardy and Sammy Guevara’s match on AEW Rampage is getting attention for all the wrong reasons. A botched spot resulted in a lot of fear among fans that Hardy was injured. Now, we have the latest update on his health status.
Jeff Hardy’s Injury Status
During the AEW Rampage taping this week, Sammy Guevara executed a shooting star press, and unfortunately, his knee landed heavily on Hardy’s face. Although the incident appeared severe, Hardy confirmed he was alright, and the match continued with Guevara executing a GTH finisher.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Jeff Hardy sustained a broken nose but, fortunately, no concussion during his match taped on February 14th against Sammy Guevara for the February 16th Rampage show.
Jeff Hardy suffered a broken nose but no concussion in his match taped 2/14 against Sammy Guevara for the 2/16 Rampage show. Guevara did a shooting star press and his knee landed hard on Hardy’s face. It looked bad but Hardy did say he was okay and they went right to Guevara doing a GTH finisher
Jeff Hardy received a broken nose but no concussion from this spot with Sammy Guevara on the taped #AEWRampage. Jeff went on to finish the match.
It’s ironic that with all the risks Jeff Hardy takes, all he did was lay still on the mat this time. It was the Spanish God’s Shooting Star Press that did the damage. Hopefully, Hardy will not miss much time at all after this little setback.
AEW Rampage will reportedly kick off this week’s episode with Jeff Hardy vs Sammy Guevara. We will have to see how they cut everything together for television.
This is better news for Jeff Hardy, because things could have been a lot worse. Still, a broken nose is no fun at all. SEScoops is sending our best to Hardy has a heals up.
There has been frustration growing within AEW as the roster can’t help but notice the decreasing crowd sizes since the start of 2024, it has been claimed.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that there’s frustration from “a lot of circles” as talent comes to shows and sees small crowd sizes. The report adds the feeling within AEW is that the popularity in the product is declining overall.
AEW President Tony Khan consistently paints a positive picture about the company’s standing. Khan often looks points to increased revenues or positive ratings as a sign of the company’s good fortune.
The Hard-Cam
AEW is known to have fans moved to the side of arenas facing the hard-cam, giving the illusion that a venue is jam-packed. While this tactic works when it comes to TV, images often emerge of AEW events with throngs of empty seats, despite what things look like on TV.
It should be noted that this tactic isn’t exclusive to All Elite Wrestling. Other promotions have made sure that the majority of fans appear on the hard-cam to give the best look to fans watching worldwide. Part of the issue is that AEW continues to book venues far bigger than their average crowd size.
While The Rock and Roman Reigns aim to bolster The Bloodline on Friday Night SmackDown, Dustin Rhodes and The Von Erichs continue their own familial legacy on AEW Rampage.
Rhodes will be teaming up with Ross and Marshall Von Erich in trios action as AEW is in the thick of “Von Erich Country” down in Texas. The Von Erichs, who are the sons of Kevin Von Erich, expressed their excitement ahead of teaming with Rhodes as Marshall thanked Tony Khan for making the pairing happen.
Ross and Marshall weren’t the only ones excited for the opportunity as Dustin himself was pumped to team up with another legacy family in the “one true sport.”
Rhodes took to social media and was informed by AEW’s Alex Marvez of the additional historical significance that “The Natural” is teaming up with Ross and Marshall.
“A little history lesson for you. Our own Alex Marvez told me last night that their dad Kevin tagged one and only one time with my pops back in 1978. So you can imagine how special this meant to me. #VonErichsAndRhodes #TexasBoys whooping tail!! Trios anybody? Thanks Tony Khan for making this happen. Historical and honored. #keepsteppin and see you tomorrow night on #AEWRampage baby!!!”
A little history lesson for you. Our own @alexmarvez told me last night that their dad Kevin tagged 1 and only 1 time with my pops back in 1978. So you can imagine how special this meant to me. #VonErichsAndRhodes#TexasBoys whooping tail!! Trios anybody? Thanks @TonyKhan for… https://t.co/Yzlrh74bRX
Marshall and Ross Von Erich have already competed in ROH, but the brothers, along with Kevin, shared a good deal of experience in Major League Wrestling. Ross & Marshall actually became the World Tag Team Champions for the promotion when the brothers beat Richard Holliday and former AEW World Heavyweight Champion MJF.
