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Watch: Triple H Gives Sneak Peak Inside Riyadh’s WWE Experience Ahead of Opening

Thomas Lowson
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Fans have been granted another look inside the WWE Experience which will open in Riyadh’s Blvd City later today. 

The WWE Experience is part of the latest Riyadh Season, which is an annual state-funded entertainment and sports festival. Riyadh Season starts in October and ends towards March during winter and spring in the Saudi Arabia capital.

Inside the WWE Experience 

While the WWE Experience will only exist in Riyadh, fans around the world have been able to get an in-depth look at the center. On Twitter, WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque shared his excitement for the WWE Experience and a video from inside. This video comes from the area celebrating the championship history of WWE, which features several, titles as well as photographs of some of the great champions in the company’s history. 

What Else? 

The WWE Experience also includes a ‘Become a Superstar’ experience which allows attendees to make their own unique entrance. Fans are encouraged to test their wits in an escape room where they must depart The Undertaker’s graveyard before they join the countless souls the WWE Hall of Famer has claimed. There is also a Hall of Immortals which features some of WWE’s all-time greats.

WWE and Saudi Arabia

In 2018, WWE marked the start of its lengthy deal with the Middle Eastern kingdom with the Greatest Royal Rumble show. At the time, WWE faced heavy criticism for signing a deal with the nation, given the country’s stance against LGBTQ+ people and women’s rights. Many found the deal to be in opposition to WWE’s ‘Women’s Revolution.’

More recently though, WWE talent have had a much more positive view of these Saudi Arabia shows. Women are allowed to compete at the events and many Superstars were said to have had a great experience at last year’s Night of Champions PLE.

A certain WWE Hall of Famer recently made his presence felt in Riyadh for the Season Cup finals between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr… 

Steve McMichael Taken To Emergency Room With Suspected Pneumonia

Dominic DeAngelo
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Steve McMichael has been taken to the hosptial due to a suspected case of pneumonia as family and friends are asking for prayers for the future Pro Football Hall Of Famer.

Jarrett Payton, son of the legendary Walter Payton, took to X to let fans know of the unfortunate news.

“We are asking for prayers for Steve McMichael. He is going to the emergency room now with suspect pneumonia. We will inform you as we have more updates. Thank you . – The McMichael Family. Team Mongo.”

McMichael is currently battling ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) something he was diagnosed with in 2021.

It was just over a week ago when Steve “Mongo” Michael would finally get the news that he’d be inducted into the Pro Football Hall Of Fame along with two other former Chicago Bears players. The news officially broke during last week’s NFL Honors ceremony.

Mongo notoriously played a primary role in the vaunted Super Bowl-winning 1985 Chicago Bears defense. McMichael is the second all-time sacks leader in Bears history and in addition to having a Super Bowl ring, he’s a four-time All-Pro and a two-time Pro Bowler.

McMichael clearly has made his friends in the NFL, but he also formed a very strong friendship with Ric Flair. Flair has been steadfast in visiting McMichael since his diagnosis and has been supportive of his fellow Four Horsemen.

Mongo was a memorable member of the famous faction, winning the United States Championship while he styled and profiled along the Nature Boy.

We at SEScoops would like to extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Mongo and all the best to the McMichael family.

WWE & UFC Inks Deal With Honda Center Through 2028

Tyriece Simon
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The merger between WWE and UFC to launch TKO Group Holding is doing great for both as they continue to secure lucrative business deals. One example was bundling ticket sales for the February 19 WWE Monday Night Raw episode and UFC 298 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. This resulted in great ticket sales and seemingly a new deal for both with the venue.

Sport’s Business Journal’s Adam Stern reports that WWE and UFC have inked new deals with the Honda Center for at least three events annually through 2028. The report also notes that the new agreement allows both companies to use the developing OCVibe for potential watch parties. 

OCVibe Bill Foltz commented on the new deal, and SBJ’s Stern transcribed the following quotes. 

When speaking on the future of WWE and UFC hosting at the Honda Center, Foltz said that the events from both companies “…will only become more powerful as we reimagine the downtown experience for Orange County at OCVibe, creating a magnetic destination for entertainment, sports, and culture.”

The success of WWE and UFC collaborating in hosting events at the Honda Center shows the strength of the merger and raises questions about what deals would be made next.

WWE & UFC Current Deals 

WWE recently secured their TV rights deals, including a groundbreaking deal with Netflix for WWE Monday Night Raw. This was the company’s last move as they secured a new home for WWE Friday Night Smackdown and NXT in 2023.

It’s estimated the TV rights for WWE Monday Night Raw, NXT, and Friday Night Smackdown equals an amount of over $6 billion. WWE also made a deal with Twitter to produce a new show called WWE Speed, which will start in the Spring. 

UFC has yet to reach a new deal with ESPN, and the contract expires in 2025. However, UFC is expected to remain on the network and get a new lucrative agreement. 

After reaching a deal with Honda Center, TKO Group Holding will likely continue to find other venues looking to secure deals for both WWE and UFC. 

Drew McIntyre’s WWE Contract Extended Beyond WrestleMania

Aaron Varble
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WWE has several interesting contract situations going on right now. Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins and others have to deal with signing a new contract or seeking other opportunities. Drew McIntyre’s WWE contract is approaching its end as well, and we have more information.

Drew McIntyre’s WWE Contract Situation

It was previously reported that McIntyre’s WWE contract is running out, but there is a hope that he will be around. The Scottish Warrior is being promoted for events in May, and he’s also thrown several jabs at CM Punk, who won’t be back until later this year due to injury.

Leading up to last year’s WWE WrestleMania, it was indicated that Drew McIntyre’s contract would expire before WrestleMania 40. McIntyre himself was considering the possibility that 2023 might mark his final WrestleMania appearance. However, recent developments suggest otherwise. Sources within WWE have confirmed that McIntyre is indeed slated to participate in WrestleMania.

A brand-new report from Sean Ross Sapp at Fightful Select said that McIntyre’s contract has been extended beyond WrestleMania. It appears that additional time was negotiated due to injury and periods of inactivity.

Fightful Select has confirmed that McIntyre’s deal now extends past WrestleMania, and that some injury and inactivity time was added to the deal in order to get it there.

What’s Next For Drew McIntyre in WWE

Sources close to Drew McIntyre have reportedly said that discussions between him and WWE management regarding a new contract are ongoing. While there is a mutual interest in reaching an agreement, it’s important to note that a deal has not been finalized.

It was also emphasized that McIntyre is highly regarded within the company, both among fellow talent and staff. His dedication to his craft, as well as his involvement in media and community events, has earned him widespread respect.

Big E: Seth Rollins’ Speaks For The Locker Room With Comments About Roman Reigns & The Rock

Thomas Lowson
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Seth Rollins’ comments about The Rock & Roman Reigns echo what many on WWE’s roster are feeling, according to Big E. 

Rollins has been vocally opposed to both the Tribal Chief and his cousin. Rollins’ issue stems from Reigns being a part-time champion, an issue that he feels will only be exacerbated if The Rock enters the title picture. Rollins has held the World Heavyweight Championship since May of last year after besting AJ Styles in the finals of a 12-man tournament at WWE Night of Champions 2023. The World Heavyweight Champion was introduced in part due to Reigns’ stranglehold on the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Speaking for the Locker Room

In stark contrast to Roman Reigns, Rollins has proven to be a fighting champion and had 99 matches in 2023 to Roman Reigns’ eleven bouts. Speaking on a recent edition of WWE’s The Bump, Big E addressed the harsh comments Rollins has had for Roman Reigns and his title reign. 

“He speaks for, in many ways, the locker room of guys who are there week in and week out, who are there on a nightly basis. That grind, it really builds a certain camaraderie and a certain respect for each other.”

Despite this, Big E doesn’t fault Roman Reigns or The Rock for accepting the very lucrative roles both are in. 

“Who could ever blame a Roman or The Rock for being in a position like that… we all want to be in that Rock/Roman position, too, but you also have a certain love for the guys with you who are grinding.”

Big E has his own history with Roman Reigns. At Survivor Series 2021, the two faced off in Champion Vs. Champion action which saw Reigns defeat the then-WWE Champion. 

TNA Locker Room Unites with Protest Letter Over Scott D’Amore’s Firing

Aaron Varble
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Scott D’Amore was removed from his position with TNA Wrestling, and he wanted to make it very clear that it wasn’t his choice. Now, the talent who really care about him are expressing just how they feel to management.

Scott D’Amore’s TNA Wrestling Exit

The decision to move Scott D’Amore out of his job with TNA apparently came before the re-branding. Then, D’Amore offered to buy the company, but those efforts were rebuffed by Anthem. 

D’Amore emphasized that both parties refrained from labeling his departure as his own decision or a mutual agreement. Some talent asserted they were informed that D’Amore resigned, but this wasn’t accurate. Moreover, Ontario, where Anthem is headquartered, has stringent employment regulations, making it advantageous for D’Amore to ensure the departure wasn’t perceived as mutual for his future prospects.

TNA Talent Protest Over Scott D’Amore’s Firing

Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that multiple TNA talents have endorsed a letter addressed to Anthem, expressing discontent over Scott D’Amore’s departure from TNA. They also released this letter, which you can read below.

Len and Scott, 

TNA/ Impact is not just our employer and the company for which we work. It is a family. A family that each of us has grown to love and cherish and trust with our bodies and our careers. A family for which we feel deeply and that desire, above all else, to protect. We are deeply saddened by the decision to remove Scott D’Amore from the TNA/Impact family. Scott is a brilliant wrestling mind that has guided this company and has it positioned to take the next step upward in our industry. Scott is also so much more than this. He is a trusted friend, confidant, teacher, advisor, brother, and mentor to so many within the TNA/Impact family. Scott has been the heart of the TNA/Impact family for over two decades. Len and Anthem have been instrumental in supporting and building this company back from the ground up.

The contributions of Len and Anthem have never gone unnoticed by anyone in the company, and we want to make sure Len knows this. TNA, simply put, would not have survived without Len and Anthem. Not just financially, but with the undying faith in Scott and us to revive the company that was on the brink of death. Len and Anthem are the foundation that TNA has been able to build upon. We would not have made it back to this point without BOTH of you. The fans know this, and the TNA family knows this. We come to you to voice our concern for TNA/Impact, our family, and its future and direction. We, like you, wish to safeguard what we have all worked and sweat and bled for to build.

We want TNA/ Impact to continue grow and to continue to be an enviable place for all professional wrestlers to work. We understand and appreciate that professional wrestling, at its core, is a business, and that the company must provide a fiscally responsible, financially viable product. At the same time, professional wrestling is uniquely situated. The business of professional wrestling is so much more than balance sheets, downloads, and ratings. The wrestling business is and must be its people, its characters, and its storylines.

That is to say, there is no wrestling business without the wrestling creative vision and the right people bringing the creative vision to life. To thrive, a wrestling company must have both an eye toward business decisions, and its fingers on the pulse of creative decisions and the ever-changing appetite of our fans. It is in light of this concern and our desire to uphold the high standards of TNA/Impact that we offer this letter. It is our desire to have a dialogue with you and with the company in an effort to protect the present and the future of TNA/Impact for you, for Anthem, for the fans, and for professional wrestlers.

We feel strongly that a “wrestling person” needs to be intimately involved at a high level to ensure that the amazing company we have all built and product we have provided to our fans continues to grow and flourish. It is our opinion that the best possible person for that role was, is, and will be Scott. We recognize that we do not necessarily know all the facts or details around the decision to remove Scott. In life there is always the rumors, the opinions, and, somewhere in between, the truth. We rarely get to know which is which. It remains our hope and desire that everyone can set aside the past few days and any hurt feelings or unkind words that may have been exchanged, and meet to discuss a path forward that preserves the TNA/Impact family we all hold so dearly.

We remain steadfast and hopeful that this letter can be a first step to opening, and keeping open, productive lines of communication to ensure the TNA/Impact family continues to be a wonderful, unique place to work for years to come. We ask and implore you both to come together and create a resolution that will reunite this family once again. We look forward to hearing from you and continuing this dialogue.

The report from Fightful Select also noted, “Those that we’ve spoken to have actually spoke well of Anthony Cicione as a person, but there are concerns about his lack of experience connected to wrestling. We’re told the closes he has to wrestling knowledge was helping WWE with The Score when he ran that channel.”

What’s Next

This is a very interesting situation. More information is coming for this still-developing story, because you never know what will happen in pro wrestling at this point. Scott D’Amore certainly seems to have some major pull to reinstate him in his previous role with TNA Wrestling. 

WWE Makes Grand Entrance on Panini Blockchain for Digital Trading Card Launch

Aaron Varble
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WWE recently settled a significant lawsuit with Panini after the latter sought to terminate their trading card company partnership prematurely. WWE struck up an agreement with Fanatics, but their deal with Panini prevented them from commencing it early. Now, Panini and WWE have a new venture in the NFT space.

WWE’s New NFT Project

WWE Superstars are now part of Panini Blockchain through the launch of Blockchain Donruss Elite WWE. The press release that they sent out to announce this partnership noted that Panini’s digital cards will feature WWE Superstars such as John Cena, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Roman Reigns, Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, and Lyra Valkyria.

The platform provides a secure space to purchase and virtually open digital packs of Panini’s distinct brands. Collectors can also engage in collection challenges to acquire cards not found in packs and participate in digital crafting events, converting common cards into numbered exclusive cards.

The initial Donruss Elite release features over 100 WWE Superstars, including special inserts like Star Status, Spellbound, and Title Waves.

Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, stated, “For the past three years, our focus has been on delivering a premier Blockchain product to our collectors. Adding a renowned brand like WWE to our lineup, with its passionate audience and rich history, aligns with the expectations of our community.”

More Blockchain WWE releases are slated to follow, featuring other exciting brands such as Panini’s flagship brand, Prizm. If you want to check this out for yourself, you can click here. The NFTs aren’t extremely expensive, with one of the highest priced Roman Reigns cards going for $150. 

It is also interesting to note that the term “NFT” doesn’t appear one time in the entire press release. Yet, the Panini Blockchain is most certainly an NFT project. Their website is nft.paniniamerica.net.

Sidenote On That Fanatics Deal

Interestingly enough, when WWE and Fanatics announced plans to launch various offerings, it included encompassing e-commerce, licensed merchandise, physical and digital trading cards, and NFTs. Now, Panini America has unveiled a substantial digital collaboration with WWE. 

We will have to see how this project pans out, but even John Cena admitted that WWE’s first attempt in the NFT space was a disaster. 

WWE Exit: Senior Writer & Producer Jennifer Pepperman Departs From The Company

Aaron Varble
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WWE has seen some notable departures already this year, but it’s the action outside their roster that has really gained attention. Now, Jennifer Pepperman, a Senior Writer and Producer for WWE, has decided to leave the company.

Jennifer Pepperman’s WWE Departure

PW Insider verified the news of Pepperman’s exit. It was further clarified that she departed by her own choice, rather than being released by WWE. Pepperman’s departure marks the conclusion of her tenure with the organization.

Upon hearing about the news of Pepperman’s exit, WWE producer Adam Pearce posted on Twitter/X to express how much she meant to the company. Her contributions were immense throughout the organization.

Shout out to @JenPepperman . I have always appreciated your creativity, passion, and the countless time you’ve given to help me and others backstage over the years. I’ll miss your energy, but I know you’ll be great wherever you may roam. My gratitude forever!!!

Exclusive Note on Jennifer Pepperman’s WWE Departure

I was told that Pepperman’s departure from WWE was “totally unexpected” to those on the creative team and for everyone else backstage as well. That being said, there is a belief and rumor going around that she already has a job lined up elsewhere.

Jenn Pepperman Before WWE

Pepperman joined WWE in April 2017, bringing extensive experience from television production. Prior to her tenure with WWE, she worked as a Producer and Director for several acclaimed soap operas, including shows like One Life To Live and As the World Turns.

What’s Next

Jennifer Pepperman will no doubt find something else to do in the entertainment world. She was also the Director of Season 3 of After Forever on Amazon Prime, and that project is still ongoing.

Everyone at SE Scoops would like to wish Jennifer Pepperman the best success in her future endeavors.

New Era for AEW: Swearing Phased Out on WBD

Aaron Varble
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AEW opened their door several years ago, and they promised a new presentation for pro wrestling fans. That came with plenty of swear words, but it seems that is in the past.

AEW Nixing Cussing

Warner Bros Discovery put up with a lot of profanity in AEW, and a lot of fans were surprised to see it start. There was once a time when the S-Bomb was dropped in every other segment. Now, it appears that WBD had enough of it.

The word “horsesh*t” was spoken on AEW Dynamite this week by Hangman Page, but it was bleeped. This is a far cry from their previous stance of letting those profanities fly. Especially when he would get fans in a rousing chant of “Cowboy Sh*t” on a weekly basis.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer addressed AEW’s swearing issue. He started that they are seemingly not permitted to drop those bombs anymore, as they were bleeped, and that seems to be the new rule of thumb.

“There was a lot of bleeping on this show. The days of saying horsesh*t and swearing on TBS and TNT look over.”

What’s Next For AEW

WBD might want AEW to tone down on the dirty words, but they are not opposed to blood. The main event of this week’s AEW Dynamite more than proved that, as Orange Cassidy and Matt Taven had a bloody main event Texas Death Match for the International Title.

This no swearing idea could be a great time to write Danhausen into a major angle. After all, “no swearing” has been his gimmick for years. 

Tony Khan didn’t want to restrict performers by telling them that they can’t swear. It appears that they may still be permitted to let the vulgarities fly, but only fans in the arena will hear those words that are not safe for television.

LA Knight Has A Special Idea For Usher’s Involvement At WrestleMania 40

Bishal Roy
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WWE superstar LA Knight has a unique idea for Usher to perform at WrestleMania 40. But he wants it to be a collaboration. 

‘The Megastar’ has become one of the most popular superstars in recent times. He is currently on a meteoric rise. He receives a warm ovation from the fans irrespective of the venue. LA Knight has everybody saying, “YEAH!” along with him, and now he is trying to bring more energy at WrestleMania 40 with Usher. 

The R&B singer recently grabbed the attention with his stunning performance at Super Bowl LVIII. It seems that LA Knight feels there could be a collaboration between him and Usher at ‘The Show of Shows.’

LA Knight wants to come out to Usher’s ‘Yeah’

LA Knight recently made an appearance on WWE: The Bump and Megan Morant told Knight that she was thinking about Knight when Usher was performing “Yeah” at the summit clash. Usher’s “Yeah!” single was released in 2004 with rappers Lil Jon and Ludacris. 

After this, LA Knight pitched an amusing idea about performing at WrestleMania with Usher. He said:

“Wait a minute. Can we get this set up? Is he coming to WrestleMania for my entrance or what?… I’m coming out and I’m [performing ‘Yeah’] with him. Let’s go.”

As the WrestleMania 40 lineup is still being finalized, LA Knight is yet to have an opponent. However, ahead of that, he will compete in the Elimination Chamber match to determine the #1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40. He recently revealed his aim to capture gold at ‘Show of Shows.’ 

You can read more about his comments below:

Bron Breakker’s WWE Main Roster Status After NXT Tag Title Win

Aaron Varble
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Bron Breakker replaced Brock Lesnar in the 2024 Royal Rumble match. He got all of Lesnar’s spots, even destroying JD McDonagh after his elimination. That being said, his recent big win in NXT has cast doubt on his main roster placement. 

Bron Breakker’s WWE Main Roster Call-Up

I previously reported that the 2024 Royal Rumble marked Bron Breakker’s main roster call-up. He will finish up his time in NXT, but he is now a part of main roster angles. The first one is determining where he will call his new brand home,

After Breakker made his main roster debut at the Royal Rumble, it became evident that he still had unresolved matters in NXT. Despite winning the NXT Tag Team Championship this week, that has not derailed his main roster plans.

During this week’s episode of NXT, Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker picked up the NXT Tag Team Titles, marking a significant milestone for both Superstar. Corbin celebrated his first championship victory in years, coinciding with Breakker’s impending move to the main roster. 

While Breakker has hinted at deciding between RAW and SmackDown, no definitive choice has been made in the storyline. I was told after his call-up that creative was leaning toward placing him on the RAW brand.

PW Insider reported that Bron Breakker is still scheduled to participate in Friday’s double SmackDown tapings in Salt Lake City. He will be around for the blue brand’s show this week, as they are taping two shows due to the fact that the Elimination Chamber event will take place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium in Perth, Western Australia, Australia.

What’s Next

Bron Breakker is a second generation Superstar with a ton of potential. He did practically everything there is to do in NXT, even picking up a tag team titles. Breakker isn’t the only Superstar who was called up to the main roster with stories to wrap up in NXT. Only time will tell how long his reign with Corbin as champions lasts, but he will soon have a full-time home on the main roster.

WWE NXT Management Left “In A Panic” After Shotzi’s Injury During Latest Taping

Thomas Lowson
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WWE NXT management was left “in a panic” after Shotzi suffered an injury during next week’s taping of the gold brand. 

The February 20, 2024, episode was taped this week as WWE wants several notable people around for WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth next week. During the tapings, Shotzi challenged NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria.

 Unfortunately, Shotzi suffered a knee injury while attempting her apron DDT. This resulted in the match being stopped midway. It was later confirmed that, unlike Ridge Holland and Ilja Dragunov, this injury is not a work. 

Update on Shotzi’s WWE NXT Injury

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer addressed Shotzi’s injury and said those at the taping were left in a panic when her situation arose. 

“They were in a panic. They were stalling to try to figure out what to do. And maybe nobody else was ready. And she had just wrestled. Maybe she was in her gear. Maybe nobody else was in their gear.”

Meltzer added that Shotzi has been pulled from the Women’s Elimination Chamber qualifying match on this week’s SmackDown she was supposed to be a part of. He added:

“I don’t know the severity of the Shotzi injury. But I do know that she left the building on crutches. And it was a knee injury.”

There’s no word on when fans can expect to see Shotzi back in the ring. We at SE Scoops would like to wish her a full and speedy recovery. 

Shotzi recently got married in Las Vegas and celebrated in a very WWE way… 

H/T – Wrestling News

Daily Drop (2/15): Elimination Chamber Shakeup, WWE Release, Scary Moment For Jeff Hardy After AEW Dynamite & More

Aaron Varble
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Welcome to a new feature for SEScoops, the 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 catch up and the wrestling news you need.

WrestleMania 40 COUNTDOWN: 51 days days away

Here’s the Daily Drop news report for Wednesday, February 15, 2024:

WWE News

– The Rock and Roman Reigns are advertised for tomorrow’s WWE SmackDown from Salt Lake City, Utah. (Tickets)

– WWE released Matt Camp from his contract sometime last week. This news broke on February 14th, and it was also a big shock for many. Camp never missed an episode of The Bump, and his departure was not mentioned on this week’s show, either.’  We’ve updated our WWE Releases tracker to reflect this departure.

– Jade Cargill was removed from her planned spot in the Elimination Chamber match. Cargill made her in-ring debut at the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble and was slated to be part of the upcoming Chamber match from Australia, based on a graphic that leaked on WWE.com showing the participants. This would have been another chance to feature Cargill in a multi-person match that would have protected her, but it seems those plans have been scrapped.

– Shotzi Blackheart was legit injured during the NXT television taping this week. She seriously hurt her knee, and reports later confirmed that she left the NXT Arena on crutches. We’re still awaiting word on her condition.

– The new WWE Experience exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia opens tomorrow. WWE-themed events center will be located at Boulevard City.  (Tickets)

“Dive into the world of WWE, where fans walk in the footsteps of legends, immersing in sights, sounds, and epic stories of global stars. Every guest will enjoy a front-row seat, unparalleled access to exciting opportunities, and moments exclusive to WWE.”

AEW News

– During AEW Dynamite this week, they finally announced Sting’s final match. The Icon will team with Darby Allin to take on The Young Bucks in an AEW World Tag Team Title match at AEW Revolution on March 9th.

– Jeff Hardy was possibly injured during the AEW Rampage taping this week. Sammy Guevara went for a shooting star press, and it appeared that his knee struck Hardy in the head. The match was then called off. We do not have any more updates at this time.

– QT Marshall is returning to AEW. He will not be wrestling, but he will work with the company in a backstage capacity. Marshall left the company at the end of 2023, but came to terms on a revised role. 

Marshall’s ‘new’ promotion Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling is expected to continue. TCW held its return event last week at the Nightmare Factory training facility, where they crowned inaugural champions.

– Rob Van Dam returns next week in an all-star 6-man tag match on AEW Dynamite. The ECW legend will team with Hook and Hangman Page against Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland and Brian Cage.

What’s Next

– WWE Elimination Chamber takes place next weekend, Saturday, February 24 from Perth, Australia. This will be the final stop on the road to WrestleMania 40.

– The following weekend, All Elite Wrestling presents AEW Revolution 2024 live on pay-per-view from the historic Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina. The event will feature Sting’s retirement match and Samoa Joe defending the AEW World championship against Hangman Page and Swerve Strickland.

Check back tomorrow for the next installment of the Daily Drop wrestling news report and make sure to Follow SEScoops on Google News, Facebook and Twitter.

Latest On QT Marshall’s Backstage Role With AEW After Surprising Return

Thomas Lowson
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More has come to light over the role of QT Marshall now that he has made his return to All Elite Wrestling. 

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Marshall would be returning to AEW in a behind-the-scenes role. This is quite a surprise, given that Marshall left AEW relatively recently in late 2023. The former leader of QTV had reportedly not been at AEW for weeks prior to his official exit from the company.

QT Marshall’s New Role with AEW

Marshall has previous experience working behind the scenes for AEW, which will come in handy upon his return. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer shared what Marshall will be responsible for under his new role with the promotion. 

“QT, his key role is going to be talent development as well. Trainer and everything like that. He left (on) December 31 and Tony Khan said, if he wants to come back, the door’s open, and I guess he wanted to come back.”

Meltzer also acknowledged part of Marshall’s decision to leave AEW was because he felt he would not be pushed any further on TV. It was confirmed that he is free to still work independent shows following his AEW return.  

Rocky Romero in AEW

Rocky Romero also recently began a backstage role with All Elite Wrestling. On his show, Meltzer explained the kind of roles he will be working under. 

“Romero’s role is gonna be talent development, so essentially training wrestlers and working with the younger talent, and also international liaison obviously with New Japan and CMLL.”

QT Marshall has a huge project outside of All Elite Wrestling… 

H/T – Wrestling News

Nic Nemeth On WWE Departure: I got to a point where I was ready to go

Bishal Roy
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Former WWE star Nic Nemeth (previously known as Dolph Ziggler) recently revealed that he was ready to leave WWE to explore new avenues.

Nemeth had a storied career in WWE but that’s all in the past. He recently ended a 19-year run with the company as he was part of the first wave of releases after the launch of TKO Group Holdings.

Following his release, Nemeth arrived in New Japan Pro Wrestling where he introduced his ‘Wanted Man gimmick.’ He eventually showed up in TNA Wrestling. Nemeth had previously disclosed that several individuals contacted him after his release and wanted to sign him into their company.

Nemeth will be a part of Title Fight Friday on night one of New Beginning in Sapporo on February 23. 

Nic Nemeth revealed he had been planning to exit WWE

Ahead of his debut, Nic Nemeth spoke to NJPW on whether there had been a big culture shock in that adjustment after his exit from WWE, or if was it more of an exciting process. Here is what he said:

“It’s a little bit of both. The first six or seven years of my career, I would get to every Monday after Wrestlemania thinking ‘well, this is the day when I’m gone!’ (laughs). So I would think about, OK, I can go back to school, go to law school, be a manager at Chipotle… you start thinking about all these things and get ready to go so you’re not blindsided by being told you’re released.”

The former World Champion revealed that he was well aware that he was a mainstay in WWE but still got to a point where he was determined to leave. He said: 

“But after about ten, 15 years of that I started realising, OK I’m a mainstay here, I’m needed. But I got to a point where I was ready to go. I’d asked the company a few different times whether I was ready to go, and they told me I was signed, and they weren’t letting me go. So I started asking them, ‘hey, can I start doing this, can I start something else’. So I was prepared to be done and to start exploring other avenues.”

Nic Nemeth further outlined how he prepared himself to attain what he’s been planning to. He said:

“I spent the last six, eight months, a year, saying ‘I’m going to be in the best shape of my life when all this goes down,’ and when it finally got to the point where I asked (WWE) enough and they gave me my release, then it became ‘OK, well you asked for this for the last five years, you’d better deliver.’ So, OK, I’ve got this, I’m doing this, I have insurance ready, I’ve been training in the ring, watching different things, and I’m ready to go. So let’s go.”

At New Beginning, Nic Nemeth is all set to challenge the inaugural NJPW Global Champion David Finlay for the title. 

Drew McIntyre Hasn’t Re-Signed With WWE Despite Being Promoted for Event Past Expiration Date

Thomas Lowson
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Drew McIntyre’s future with WWE remains uncertain despite being advertised for an event past his current contract’s expiration date. 

The Scottish Warrior’s future with WWE has been under speculation for some time. Last year, it was reported that his contract was going to expire in early 2024. In September, McIntyre said that has no intentions to work elsewhere. It was also reported that time has been added to Drew’s WWE contract due to his post-WrestleMania 39 hiatus.

Drew McIntyre Has Yet to Re-Sign

Earlier this week, WWE announced an event on May 1 in Bologna, Italy that McIntyre is being advertised for. This led to speculation that Drew had signed a new contract given that his current deal expires in April. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer made clear this is not the case. 

“The answer to that is no he has not signed a new deal, but he seems very happy so far with his new character and he’s really excited about it, and they’re working with the idea that he’s not going anywhere.”

Addressing reports that McIntyre could let his WWE deal expire so he can have time to go back to Scotland, Meltzer said it was unlikely.

“I think the talk of him taking a lot of time off and everything like that – probably not. He’ll probably sign a new deal. But it’s still just a ‘probable’ until it happens.”

What’s Next for Drew McIntyre?

During a recent episode of SmackDown, McIntyre earned a spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match. The winner will earn a World Heavyweight Championship match against Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins at WrestleMania 40. 

WWE in Bologna, Italy

WWE will host its Italy live event on May 1, mere days before WWE Backlash: France on May 4. Other names being advertised include Cody Rhodes, Bianca Belair, Randy Orton, WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY, LA Knight, Bobby Lashley, Kevin Owens, and Jey Uso. 

Ticket and VIP packages are already being advertised for the event. As always, the talent is subject to change. At this time, no matches have been confirmed.

Zilla Fatu Returning to Reality of Wrestling After Fixing “Irreconcilable” Differences

Thomas Lowson
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Fans of Reality of Wrestling will soon see Zilla Fatu back in action despite his previous exit from the promotion being over “irreconcilable” differences. 

Fatu is part of the famed Anoa’I wrestling family, which includes industry staples such as The Rock, Rikishi, Roman Reigns, and the late Yokozuna. Zilla is the son of the late WWE Superstar Edward ‘Umaga’ Fatu, who would become a two-time Intercontinental Champion and challenged for the WWE Championship multiple times before his passing in 2009.

Returning to Reality of Wrestling

In late 2022, Zilla began training in professional wrestling to follow in the footsteps of his father. The following year, Zilla made his in-ring debut for the Reality of Wrestling promotion, which he was also training with. In September of last year it was announced that Fatu had left ROW due to irreconcilable differences. Fatu would later explain that his vision for his wrestling career differed from what ROW had planned. 

It now appears that these irreconcilable differences could be reconciled after all. Taking to Twitter, Zilla shared that after “heartfelt discussions” he and ROW head Booker T have agreed to work together again. Fatu tagged the two-time WWE Hall of Famer and the official ROW account. 

Fatu Outside Reality of Wrestling

ROW isn’t the only place fans have been able to see Zilla Fatu. Last month, Fatu made his debut for GCW. Zilla teamed with his relative Jacob Fatu to defeat Jay Lyon and Midas Black at the Look At Me event. 

Ex-WWE Diva Claims Higher-Up Encouraged Her to Oil Her Body to Get Vince McMahon’s Attention

Thomas Lowson
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Francine may have portrayed a sex-heavy character in ECW, but there was a line she wouldn’t cross when she arrived in ECW. 

The ECW original joined WWE in 2006 following the relaunch of the extreme promotion as a third brand. After appearing at that year’s One Night Stand event Francine made a handful of appearances, mostly in bikini contests or similar segments. Her in-ring debut would be in an ‘Extreme Catfight’ during the September 26, 2006, edition of ECW on Sci-Fi. She was released from WWE the following month. 

Absolutely Not!

Francine’s time with WWE was underwhelming, but the former ECW ‘vixen’ wasn’t going to degrade herself to get ahead in the company. During a recent edition of her Eyes Up Here podcast, Francine recalled a member of management encouraging her to use oil on her body to get the attention of Vince McMahon. 

“I mean when I worked there were stories floating around. And again, when I worked there I was told by somebody higher up that if you want to be seen, go get a bottle of oil… rubbing oil all over my b**** and knocking on Vince’s door and going in there and leaning on his desk and trying to get noticed. That’s what I was told to do. And, I said absolutely not. I’m not doing that.” 

There has been renewed interest in McMahon’s relationship with women in WWE due to the lawsuit filed against him by Janel Grant. McMahon resigned from TKO and WWE last month after it was alleged that he had been sexually abusive to Miss Grant and trafficked her to other men in WWE. 

McMahon has denied the allegations against him and, via a spokesperson, has claimed the lawsuit is rife with “obscene made-up instances that never occurred.”

Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins To Appear On Grayson Waller Effect At WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth

Thomas Lowson
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Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes will have a unique role at this month’s WWE Elimination Chamber PLE as the guests on the Grayson Waller Effect. 

In a video shared on WWE’s Twitter account, Waller spoke about being sick and tired of hearing about ‘stories.’ Waller also poked fun at Cody for being slapped by The Rock during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference last week. Despite this, Waller recognized Cody’s quest against the Bloodline as “the biggest story in entertainment.” 

The self-professed Prime Minister of Australia then said that he’d bring this story to his home country. Waller then confirmed that he will be giving the ‘Grayson Waller Rub’ to Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins at WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

The Grayson Waller Effect

Waller will no doubt be hoping that this edition of the Grayson Waller effect goes better than the last time he hosted Cody Rhodes. At WWE Payback, Rhodes was the guest on Waller’s show but would introduce Jey Uso as Raw’s newest Superstar. After Waller got in Jey’s face, the ‘Main Event’ talent would attack the Australian.

WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth

Here is the card for WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth as it currently stands: 

  • The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) vs. Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)
  • Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair vs. Liv Morgan vs. 3 TBD (Elimination Chamber match for a Women’s World Championship match at WrestleMania XL)
  • Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Nia Jax (WWE Women’s World Championship)
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton vs. Bobby Lashley vs. LA Knight vs 2 TBD (Elimination Chamber match for a World Heavyweight Championship match at WrestleMania XL)

What other events can the WWE Universe look forward to in 2024… 

Jeff Hardy Possibly Injured After Brutal Spot During AEW Rampage Taping

Aaron Varble
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Jeff Hardy recently made headlines when he expressed apparent disappointment about how the Hardys are booked on AEW television. He wrestled on Rampage this week, but that match sadly ended with an apparent injury.

Jeff Hardy Possibly Injured

After the February 14th episode of AEW Dynamite, the company recorded the upcoming Rampage episode airing on February 19th. That match featured Hardy taking Sammy Guevara in singles action.

At the H.E.B. Center in Cedar Park, Texas, where the taping took place, fans captured footage of Sammy Guevara striking Jeff Hardy directly in the face with a knee. This went down as Guevara nailed a top rope move on the Charismatic Enigma.

The match was promptly ended to provide Hardy with immediate medical attention, as he was visibly bleeding from the mouth and appeared disoriented when trying to stand. Fans in attendance also noted that Hardy appeared to be out of it, and Guevara is taking some blame online.

What’s Next

Because of NBA All-Star weekend, Rampage will air this week on February 16th at 7 PM EST. The episode will also feature Anna Jay against Queen Aminata.

The entire staff of SE Scoops is sending our best to Jeff Hardy during this time. Hopefully, he isn’t injured and won’t miss any time.

Will Ospreay’s Opponent Announced For AEW Revolution

Dominic DeAngelo
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Will Ospreay’s first official match as an AEW talent will be against a rising star and he may have the decked stacked against him.

On Wednesday night’s episode of AEW Dynamite, the diabolical Don Callis revealed that Konosuke Takeshita will challenge Ospreay on March 3 at AEW Revolution in Greensboro, NC.

Callis claimed that everyone on the roster was afraid to take on Takeshita or Powerhouse Hobbs and so he had to take it upon himself to facilitate the bout between Konosuke and Ospreay.

Ospreay announced that he signed with AEW all the way back in November, but had several obligations to fufill with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Ospreay did work for TNA as well during his lame duck period and was greatly praised for his influence on the locker room.

Claudio Castagnoli recently did an interview with Adrian Hernandez where he considered Ospreay’s thought process in signing with AEW.

“I’m sure there was something for Will where it’s like … Tokyo Dome, New Japan, he’s been there for, I believe, it was seven plus years, there’s the same thing of like, ‘okay I’ve done this, I know I can do this, if I want to challenge myself …’ that’s always the scary part,” Castagnoli said. “Do you choose comfort or do you want to challenge yourself and take that leap of faith?” 

On the Valentine’s Day episode of Dynamite, it was also revealed who Sting’s final opponents will be at AEW Revolution.

Please credit Adrian Hernandez and h/t to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Sting’s Final Match Set For AEW Revolution

Aaron Varble
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AEW is preparing for Sting’s final match, marking the end of his iconic career. The Stinger has done a lot in his career, and now we know who he will wrestle at the big AEW pay-per-view.

Sting’s Final Match

Sting & Darby Allin will defend the AEW World tag team titles against The Young Bucks at AEW Revolution on March 3, 2024, at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina.

This event will mark AEW’s inaugural Pay-Per-View in North Carolina. It was revealed a while ago that Sting will wrestle for the last time at the event.

Sting and Darby Allin won the AEW Tag Team Titles from Big Bill and Ricky Starks, giving them their first title run in AEW. They will now defend those titles at AEW Revolution, and they have a big match planned.

Nick and Matt Jackson turned heel in a big way, making themselves known to Sting and Darby Allin. This week on AEW Dynamite, they made their upcoming match official.

The Young Bucks confirmed during AEW Dynamite that they will wrestle Sting and Darby Allin at AEW Revolution. That match will be for the AEW Tag Team Titles. The Jackson Brothers seemed very confident about their chances.

What’s Next

Sting impressed many people with performances in AEW. Few saw a flying Stinger in his later years, but he certainly gave his all for Tony Khan’s company. Now, he is set for this one final match, and odds are he will make it an iconic performance.

SE Scoops will have continued coverage of this story, and everything else involving AEW Revolution, as more information is made available. 

QT Marshall Returns To AEW In A New Role

Aaron Varble
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QT Marshall was one of the names that left AEW last year. His departure was due to differences that he had with the job he was given to do. He lost a lot of pull backstage since Cody Rhodes’ departure, and many expected him to seek out another home for his talents. Now, he is back in AEW.

QT Marshall’s AEW Return

According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Select, QT Marshall is set to return to All Elite Wrestling, albeit in a different role. 

It’s been reported that Marshall and AEW have resolved their previous issues, and he will be resuming his former position as vice president. However, there are no plans for him to return to the ring as a wrestler.

Sources familiar with the matter have also reportedly confirmed that an agreement was reached a couple of weeks ago, although Marshall has not yet officially rejoined the company. He is also able to take bookings outside Tony Khan’s company.

We’re told that Marshall is free to wrestle outside of AEW, with the exception of WWE. The 38-year old Marshall hadn’t wrestled since his AEW deal officially ended on December 31 until this past week’s TCW show, but has shown off his physical transformation on Twitter.

What’s Next

In collaboration with Teil Rhodes, Marshall has joined efforts to revive Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling, originally founded by Dusty Rhodes. Their inaugural show took place on February 8 in McDonough, GA, featuring former WWE Superstar Matt Cardona, Scotty Riggs, Glacier, Aaron Solo, and others.

We will have to see if AEW provides any assistance to Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling in the time to come.

Athena Needs That Mercedes Mone Dream Match: “I Don’t Care If I Have To Go To Japan, I Just Have To Get It”

Ella Jay
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Last week, AEW President Tony Khan announced that the company will be heading back to Boston, Massachusetts on March 13 for a special edition of AEW Dynamite.  According to Khan, the show which is titled Big Business, will be “one of the most important nights in AEW.” 

While AEW has yet to reveal further details on the event, recent reports have indicated that “The CEO” Mercedes Mone (formerly known as WWE’s Sasha Banks) is expected to make her AEW debut at Big Business. AEW previously showed Mone in attendance for their August 2023 All In event in London.

Athena Wants “The CEO” 

Given these recent developments, Sunday Night’s Main Event asked the ROH Women’s Champion about the possibility of Mercedes Mone becoming ‘All Elite’ in her hometown of Boston, MA in just a matter of weeks.

Athena is “immensely curious” to see if Mercedes Mone arrives at Big Business. She said she and the entire AEW locker room are hoping it happens, but Tony Khan is keeping things close to the vest and nobody knows for sure.

ROH Women’s Champion Athena

Ember Moon and Sasha Banks crossed paths a few times in WWE, but they never squared off one-one-one. She considers Mercedes Mone a dream opponent and may finally get her wish later this year in an AEW ring.

“I might finally get one of my dream matches,” she said. “That is one of the coolest things because I’ve shared the ring with this person for many times, and whether we were on the same tag team at live events in WWE, to us getting to briefly touch at Money in the Bank, to us briefly touching in this awesome fatal four-way we had on Raw, I just wish the world for this person because she is someone that I think is one of the absolute best wrestlers in the world.” 

Stacking Up

Athena considers herself to be “immensely” humble, despite the talent and work ethic its taken to establish herself as one of the top wrestlers in the world. As much as she’s accomplished, she’s eager to see how she’d stack up against someone she’s looked up to for so long. Aside from that, she wants to see what they can create together. 

“I’m a firm believer of, when you have two dedicated women, to the cause, it’s going to be money and it’s going to be magic. I just have to have it. I don’t care if I have to go to Japan for it. I just have to get it one time.”

Athena is far from the only AEW wrestler who is eager to mix it up with Mercedes Mone. As you can read about below, former AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker is also on that list. Mone, Baker, WWE Superstars Bayley and Naomi were all spotted together at the Super Bowl this past weekend in Las Vegas.

H/T to Fightful for the transcription

Velveteen Dream Emerges in Surprising Setting to Advocate for New Cause

Aaron Varble
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Velveteen Dream was released from WWE in 2021, and he hasn’t made any noise for another pro wrestling company since. That being said, headlines about the former NXT North American Champion were not hard to come by as arrests and other allegations followed him. Now, he is onto his next venture, and he’s advocating to preserve rural America. 

Velveteen Dream’s Next Phase

According to Star Exponent, Patrick Clark frequently visits Culpeper to reunite with family and appreciates its rural ambiance. Recently settling in the county for three months, he is introduced as the cousin of Don Haight, a Stevensburg farmer advocating for local farmer programs and the preservation of the county’s rural essence.

Although Clark originally hailed from Washington D.C, he has seemingly found a new home in Culpepper, and he loves the vibe there. During the February 6th Culpeper County Board of Supervisors meeting, he urged the board to prioritize the collective desires of the county’s residents and suggested potential drawbacks of implementing large-scale solar power. 

While expressing apprehension about technological and political changes, he cautioned against external influences jeopardizing Culpeper’s distinct identity.

“I’m afraid that there is a technological and a political gentrification that may occur if we allow outside forces to corrupt Culpeper.”

“Culpeper has this sweet nature to it, sweet as black garlic if you will. It’s got this nature that I’m afraid is going to be corrupted if you all let personal interest affect the decisions that affect the citizens of Culpeper.”

Clark also noted the backing the board receives from residents on this issue, drawing a parallel to his own encounter with dwindling support.

“I lost my job because I took for granted the support that was given to me by the people who paid good money to see me perform.”

In May 2017, Clark debuted a new Prince-inspired persona on NXT named Velveteen Dream. He gained traction and clinched the NXT North American Championship once. However, after a lengthy hiatus due to WWE’s investigation into allegations of Clark’s misconduct involving children, he was released from WWE in May 2021.

Allegations Against Patrick Clark

Patrick Clark was making reference to the allegations that surrounded his WWE departure. In April 2020, there were allegations of misconduct involving minors against Clark. He denied these allegations, and the WWE conducted an investigation, which found no evidence supporting the claims. He was never formally charged.

Allegations of drug use and setting up a camera in a bathroom to snap photos of male Superstars without consent were also made. His name has been ripe with controversy, and he has addressed these accusations in the past.

WWE tried to use Velveteen Dream on television after that, with Triple H even saying that they determined that nothing out of line happened after concluding an investiation. Still, #FireVelveteenDream popped up and trended on Twitter every time he made an appearance on television.

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