One night after competing for the ROH World Television Championship at ROH Final Battle, Bryan Keith received the opportunity to challenge for another title — Orange Cassidy’s AEW International Championship, to be exact.
While Keith’s title pursuits didn’t produce his desired outcome, he still has his eye on facing some more performers in both companies. During an interview with the To Be Someone Podcast, Keith revealed some of the names on his list of dream opponents, which includes representatives from NJPW, WWE, ROH, and AEW.
“One of them is a guy named [Tomohiro] Ishii that wrestles with New Japan. The Stone Pitbull. I feel like his aura is everything that I try to emulate,” Keith said. “When he comes out, he may not be the biggest guy, and he’s not the fastest, not the strongest, but when he comes out, the song hits, you hear the dogs barking, you know you’re in for like a hell of a match. It don’t matter who he’s in there with. He could be in there with anyone, and there’s going to be a five-star classic. I draw heavy influence from him and guys like him …
He just has that aura about himself that I always try to portray because I’m not the biggest guy, I’m not the fastest, I’m not the strongest. I don’t do a bunch of flips or anything like that. I just got that Texas ‘I’m coming there and I’m gonna kick your ass’ feel, I want people to feel that, and I feel like he’s got that aura. Japanese strong style versus Texas strong style, that’d be a hell of a match.”
WWE, ROH, & AEW Dream Opponents
Within the landscape of WWE, Keith identified Finn Balor and AJ Styles as two other names he’d like to face one day. In assessing their work, Keith noted that both performers display a crisp arsenal of offense and defense in the ring.
Within AEW and ROH, Keith is keen on squaring off with current ROH World Champion Eddie Kingston and former ROH Television Champion Samoa Joe. If he had to choose between them though, Keith would favor a match with Samoa Joe, whom he describes as one of his early wrestling influences.
“Samoa Joe’s the man. I’d love to wrestle Eddie Kingston, and Eddie Kingston is definitely a dream match for me, but Samoa Joe is legendary. Not the Eddie Kingston is not, but just Samoa Joe and what he’s done, what he means to me and the influence on me. I learned about Eddie Kingston later on in my career, whenever I was an older wrestler. So foundationally, I wasn’t really watching Eddie Kingston to grow up and be a better wrestler,” Keith said.
“I was foundationally watching Samoa Joe, seeing him wrestle on TNA, seeing him wrestle on the Indies, Ring of Honor and stuff. He’s a guy that definitely influenced my style in the way I wrestle.”
A native of Houston, Texas, Keith has steadily built a name for himself in the southern independent wrestling scene, notably becoming the longest-reigning New Texas Pro Champion.
WWE RAW featured Kofi Kingston, as he was dressed up as Santa Claus, this week for their Holiday edition. Fans saw Kofi Claus during the December 18th episode of WWE RAW in Des Moines, but Xavier Woods was nowhere in sight.
Xavier Woods Is Off The Road
According to PW Insider, Xavier Woods was present in Birmingham, Alabama, a few weeks ago. At this point, he is off the road, and it’s unclear what the issue is.
While we have not confirmed the nature of the issue, we are told Woods is banged up and has been taken off the road to heal up.
The specific details of Xavier Woods’ issue have not been confirmed, but the outlet indicated that Xavier Woods is dealing with injuries, leading to his removal from the road for a period of recovery.
Initial advertisements for the Raw brand Holiday Tour dates post-Christmas featured the New Day, but recent updates indicate a modification to the lineup, with only Kofi Kingston now scheduled for these events.
We have not heard anything specific regarding Xavier Woods’ medical issues or injury. At this time, it appears that he is getting some time off to rest.
Why WWE Superstars Seek Medical Help In Birmingham, Alabama
WWE superstars often seek medical attention at Dr. James Andrews’ clinic in Birmingham, Alabama. The clinic is renowned for its expertise in orthopedic and sports medicine, and it serves as a destination for wrestlers dealing with various injuries and musculoskeletal issues.
Wrestlers from WWE, known for the physical demands of their profession, turn to Dr. Andrews and his team for specialized care, diagnostics, and potential treatments to address injuries sustained during their rigorous performances. The clinic’s reputation for handling sports-related injuries makes it a go-to destination for WWE superstars looking to receive comprehensive and professional medical care to aid in their recovery and rehabilitation processes.
It appears that Xavier Woods is just one of the latest WWE Superstars to seek help at that famous clinic, but he won’t be the last. Charlotte Flair, who just suffered a notable knee injury, may also make her way to Birmingham in due time when her surgery comes around.
Could Zac Efron one day compete in an AEW ring following the release of The Iron Claw? Don’t count it out according to the Greatest Showman actor.
The Iron Claw delves into the lives and numerous tragedies of the Von Erich wrestling family. The wrestling lineage began with Fritz Von Erich (real name Jack Adkisson,) and his sons would also find success in the squared circle. The Von Erichs are still a force in wrestling today with Marshall & Ross Von Erich competing to this day.
Zac Efron in AEW?
Efron’s performance has been heralded by critics and we could soon see more of the star in the Squared Circle. In a recent interview with The Masked Man Show, Efron was asked about the possibility of stepping into the ring and named AEW as a possible destination.
“It’d be fun if we could get in there with some of the guys we worked with, with Chavo [Guerrero ]or even the Von Erichs coming back with AEW. I’d love to do something with them. If we had some time and prep and, especially if we were all out there together, that would be fun as hell. Who knows. Don’t count it out, that’s for sure.”
Chavo Guerrero worked as the wrestling choreographer for The Iron Claw, and was very impressed with Efron. The Von Erichs, represented by Kevin, Russ, and Marshall, appeared on last week’s episode of AEW Rampage which was fittingly filmed in Texas. The segment saw Kevin deliver the Iron Claw to Jake Hager.
Check out SE Scoops’ official (spoiler-free) review of The Iron Claw by clicking here.
The new contract of WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio will keep the masked legend around for years to come, it has been claimed.
This week, news broke that the three-time former World Champion had signed a new deal with WWE, though it was not stated how long he’ll be sticking around. In an update from Wrestling Observer Radio, it is believed that Rey’s new deal is a five-year contract with the promotion.
If this report is accurate, Rey’s new contract will keep him locked into a deal with WWE until the end of 2028. At this point, Rey will be 54 years old and likely retired. Mysterio said last year that he does not intend to wrestle past 50, though it’s entirely possible plans have changed.
WWE’s Upcoming Contracts
Rey Mysterio will be staying with WWE for years to come, but the promotion has several notable contracts due to expire relatively soon. Drew McIntyre’s contract is due to expire in 2024 and there has been no public confirmation that he has re-signed with the promotion. McIntyre will challenge for the WWE World Heavyweight Champion on the Day 1 episode of Monday Night Raw.
WWE is closing out 2023 with some big headlines, and a ton of momentum as they race toward the Royal Rumble on January 27th. This next calendar year will also include some notable moments with WWE’s business, and they want to make sure a big roster shake-up isn’t a part of that.
2024 Will Be A Big Year For WWE
WWE faces significant changes as they navigate new television deals in 2024. There are indications that WWE RAW might depart from the USA Network, and it’s confirmed that NXT will transition from the USA to the CW Network, while SmackDown is set to leave FOX for a return to the USA. Superstar contracts are also a big matter of concern for the company in 2024.
Expiring WWE Talent Contracts in 2024
The upcoming year brings the expiration of contracts for notable stars like Becky Lynch, World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins, Sheamus, and Drew McIntyre.
Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio have secured new deals with WWE, with Dominik’s contract reportedly spanning five years. While the length of Rey’s deal remains unconfirmed, there’s a belief that it’s a substantial, long-term commitment.
While going over all of these subjects during Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer highlighted WWE’s strategy to prevent talent from entering the free-agent market by securing them with substantial, extended contracts, a practice they’ve adhered to for decades.
“They’re [WWE] obviously very happy because they signed both of them. Both of them could have waited until free agency, and at that point, they could have gotten probably a giant offer from AEW and a giant offer from WWE. But obviously, WWE really made it worth their while, which was what I was told is that they are going to they were looking at longtime deals with, greatly increased compensation for the guys because they don’t want free agents right now,”
It was also noted that WWE is planning to pick up those contract talks once again in 2024. They may wait until the Holidays are behind them, but there is no doubt that they don’t want to lose those top Superstars.
AEW could be in the market to offer big money to any of those top Superstar with expiring deals. WWE realizes that, and they also do not want to lose people who they used to promote those new blockbuster television deals before they start in October, either.
AEW star Chris Jericho recently responded to a fan who suggested him to take time off in order to give the fans a chance to miss him.
Jericho’s tag-team partner Kenny Omega is currently out of action for an indefinite period as he was diagnosed with diverticulitis following his match with Ethan Page. ‘The Cleaner’ was admitted to hospital immediately after the match and shared an update on his health condition.
It’s worth noting that Omega and Chris Jericho were set to compete in a tag team match at the AEW’s final pay-per-view of the year, AEW Worlds End. However, that match has been called off at the moment.
As Omega is sidelined, a fan took to Twitter and opined that ‘The Demo God’ should take some time off and give the fans an opportunity to miss him.
Chris Jericho responds
The inaugural AEW World Champion had none of it and fired back at the fan. In a sarcastic response, Jericho made it clear that he will be present at AEW Dynamite this Wednesday.
Chris Jericho is not only having a great time in AEW but he also has some outside projects. Most recently, it came to light that he will be reprising his role in the upcoming Terrifier 3. He had a cameo in Terrifier 2, and it has now been confirmed that he will make a comeback in the sequel of the movie.
Jericho was briefly featured in Terrifier 2 credits scene, which set up the next installment in the series. Terrifier 3 will hit the theaters on October 25, 2024.
Solo Sikoa is known as The Bloodline’s enforcer, a man who rarely cracks a smile, let alone dances. A video from Solo’s past has resurfaced recently, and it is one he probably wishes would have stayed buried in his timeline.
Solo Sikoa’s Embarrassing Dance Video
In a video dated December 2015 that recently resurfaced, Solo Sikoa can be seen dancing and vibing to a song, a stark contrast to his current WWE persona. The song in question was “Dabb on Em” by Big Will.
The caption of this dance video said, “When it’s almost Christmas and you KNOW you been gooddd!!” So this was literally a ghost of Solo’s Christmas past.
Interestingly, Solo Sikoa opted to delete this video. One fan noticed this old post was missing, and they commented to say, “Ain’t no way Roman Reigns made Solo delete this LMAOOOO.”
Fans confirmed that they backed up that 2015 dance video, which you can check out below. Obviously, this was not footage that Solo Sikoa wanted floating around the Internet Wrestling Community.
The Bloodline member took the additional step of securing his Twitter profile, limiting access to his tweets for everyone. Now, Solo’s profile is protected, so fans can’t view his timeline.
We can only guess that Solo Sikoa is going to do some social media research, nixing a few problematic posts along the way. Come back to SE Scoops for more updates.
WWE fans care deeply about the Superstars that they follow, but sadly, that also comes with people who are ready and able to scam them. Alexa Bliss’ fans know all about how scammers will try to jack her identity, but they’re not finished by a long shot.
The Alexa Bliss Scam
In a now deleted tweet, a fan claimed to have received a counterfeit check from Alexa Bliss’ manager, accusing her of theft in the process. He was quite upset about this, as he dropped two posts on the matter.
Rubber check submitted to me by Alexa Bliss’ business manager the check was absolutely positively a fake according to the bank and to the two companies mentioning on the check, and yet I was called the liar I was called the thief who’s the thief?
This confused fan dropped another post, this time with a screenshot of a badly-made marriage certificate. The caption to this second post said, “This has been posted on and off on Facebook Twitter X and I believe even Instagram but no one ever challenged it no one ever told me I had to take it down no one fact not BS.”
Alexa Bliss saw this fan’s distraught messages, and she had to chime in. Bliss let this fans know that he’s been scammed, and she had nothing to do with it. This man’s posts have since been deleted.
‘‘Sir someone is scamming you. We don’t know each other. please stop communication with whoever’s pretending to be me. I’m sorry this is happening to you. Again you have not been speaking to me. Stay safe.”
Beware Of Scammers
Alexa Bliss recently celebrated the birth of her daughter, a momentous event that brought joy to her fans. However, amidst the happiness, a terrible issue came to light with this situation.
Scammers are pretending to be Alexa Bliss, exploited unsuspecting individuals online. It is sad to see that this happened, but at least Alexa Bliss was able to let him know that he’s being scammed.
The incident highlights the unfortunate reality that public figures like Alexa Bliss can become targets for identity theft and scams. Despite Bliss’s attempts to clarify the situation, this likely won’t stop other scammers from trying the same tactic in the future.
Hopefully, WWE fans will smarten up and realize that scammers target them on a regular basis like this, and nobody is off-limits when it comes to who they will impersonate.
Sir someone is scamming you. We don’t know each other. please stop communication with whoever’s pretending to be me. I’m sorry this is happening to you. Again you have not been speaking to me. Stay safe
All Elite Wrestling fans are looking forward to witnessing Sting’s last match of his legendary career. On November 29, it was announced that Sting’s retirement match would occur at AEW Revolution on March 3, 2024, at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex in Greensboro, NC. Although tickets went on sale to the general public on December 15, the event is doing very well.
WrestleTix reported on December 17 that AEW Revolution has sold over 11,807 tickets and that the venue is set up for an attendance of 12,717. It’s reported that a little over 900 tickets are left, and on Ticketmaster, the lowest ticket price is currently $35.
AEW Revolution Sun • Mar 03, 2024 • 7:00 PM Greensboro Coliseum Complex, Greensboro, NC
Available Tickets => 910 Current Setup => 12,717 Tickets Distributed => 11,807
+365 since yesterday's update. Continued movement for Sting's final match. Take note of the section that… pic.twitter.com/c9s21xDPCF
Although WrestleTix may have an estimated setup for the event, it is possible to open more seating. The Greensboro Coliseum Complex can hold over an attendance of 22,000.
The report shares that AEW has blocked off behind and the side of where the entrance will be set up. If more tickets are sold for the event, AEW could decide to make changes to accommodate more seating. It’s important to note that AEW hasn’t announced any matches for the show, except that Sting will have his final match. Despite not having an opponent yet, fans are very interested in being in attendance to see Sting compete in the legendary venue.
The Importance Of Sting Finishing His Last Match At The Greensboro Coliseum
“The Icon” ending his career in the Greensboro Coliseum is fitting, as it was where he had his legendary match against Ric Flair. Sting faced “Nature Boy” to a time-limit draw at the NWA Clash Of The Champions on March 27, 1988. Although he lost, it was one of the highlight matches of Sting’s career.
Over 35 years later, Sting may have Flair in his corner to face an unknown opponent. AEW hasn’t shared who “The Icon” will challenge but is making a point to share that Sting has not been beaten since joining the company.
Regardless of the opponent, AEW fans are showing their support for Sting and are looking forward to seeing him put the face paint on for the last time.
Mercedes Mone is proving to be quite the popular free agent with multiple options for the former Women’s Champion.
Mone signed with New Japan earlier this year and would debut for the company at Wrestle Kingdom 18. The following month, Mone would capture the IWGP Women’s Championship. She would hold the title until May before dropping the gold to current champion Mayu Iwatani.
Returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling?
Fightful Select reports that Mone is not signed to New Japan Pro Wrestling anymore, but that the company is interested in bringing her back into the fold. There has been no word on any talks between NJPW and Mone at this time.
Mercedes Mone & WWE
While there have been reports that WWE is planning on renewing talks with several free agents at the start of next year there is no word if the former Sasha Banks’ name is on the list. The report also notes that they’ve heard from no one close to the creative team of any plans to prepare for Mone’s possible return, despite false reports shared online to the contrary. While WWE has indicated interest in bringing Mone back, that is nothing new and there is no word that WWE is bringing Mone back.
Will Mercedes Mone Become All-Elite?
Fightful’s report states that there were tentative plans back around All In for AEW and Mone to work together, but that this is no longer active. The two sides were far apart on “terms” but it is unclear if these terms relate to the number of dates, the schedule, money, creative, or something else entirely. Contrary to what has been said on social media, the door is not closed between the two sides.
Mone has been out of action since the NJPW Resurgence event in May of this year when she suffered an ankle injury.
The landscape of the career of Matt Cardona was dramatically changed by his role with GCW, despite the ex-Superstar being against the idea at first.
Cardona’s 15-year career with WWE ended in April 2020 when he was released from the promotion. The former Zack Ryder captured the WWE & Raw Tag Team Championships in WWE, and had reigns as United States and Intercontinental Champion.
Matt Cardona on GCW Run
With his WWE career over, Cardona reinvented himself on the independent scene, ditching his fun-loving face persona into a despicable heel who thrived in riling up audiences. Cardona’s new character was never on more display than during his GCW feud with Nick Gage, which saw Cardona refer to Gage’s past legal problems. On the Insight podcast, Cardona shared how the match came to be and admitted he was against the idea at first.
“So John Carlo, my friend John Carlo, who was working for GCW at the time. Worked for WWE, now works for AEW, he pitched it to me. I said ‘Absolutely f***ing not!’ I am not wrestling, because Nick Gage was just on Dark Side of the Ring. He almost killed David Arquette in the ring, criminal, drug addict, I’m not wrestling this guy!
“And then I took a step back and said ‘Wait a minute. People are going to watch this.’ People are going to talk about this. They’re going to want to see Zack Ryder carved up by Nick Gage. So let’s do it. And it was only a three-shot deal. Three shows: go in [and] attack Nick Gage. Have the match, and the one show after.”
The altercation and subsequent match with Gage would go viral on social media, which came as the world of wrestling was still being rocked by COVID. On the show, Cardona argued that the match helped change independent wrestling as it showed that smaller shows could still do big business.
“I think we changed independent wrestling. I say we because GCW needed to be GCW, I needed to be me and Nick Gage needed to be Nick Gage. We needed all of those ingredients.
“It’s an independent show in Atlantic City, New Jersey. But it trended number one over the UFC pay-per-view that night and the Olympics. Which is nuts. We had captured lightning in a bottle, I use that expression all the time. We had it and I just ran with it.
Cardona would dethrone Gage to win the GCW World Heavyweight Championship. In his efforts to rile up the fans, Cardona would introduce a ‘Spinner’ version of the GCW World title and attempt to bring ‘Sports Entertainment’ to the violent promotion.
A Possible WWE Return?
While Cardona is killing it outside of WWE, the former Superstar has previously said he’d consider an offer to return. On the podcast, Cardona made it clear that he still has a lot of appreciation for what WWE did for him.
“[I’m] so, so grateful to WWE for Zack Ryder. That was my dream, I lived it. Highest of highs, lowest of lows, I’m forever grateful for that time. It set me up for who I am today, but it’s over. Zack Ryder is dead. If I ever were to go back to WWE, if it was up to me, it’d be as Matt Cardona.”
For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.
CM Punk may lay claim to being the ‘Best in the World’ but his fighting skills were outmatched by some WWE Superstars during a 2006 flight.
That year was a formative one for Punk, who made his TV debut as part of the relaunched ECW brand. Punk was a personal project of ECW head Paul Heyman, and would quickly become one of the most featured stars on the show.
CM Punk’s On-Board Flights
On a recent edition of his Six Feet Under podcast, The Undertaker spoke about Punk and the relationship they have had in the ring. The Phenom recalled a time when Punk was traveling with the roster for the 2006 edition of Tribute to the Troops in Baghdad, Iraq.
“Somehow or another, the discussion comes up. I don’t know if Vince instigated this one or not… CM Punk, he fashioned himself as a jiu-jitsu practitioner. Someone broached the question, ‘You did jiu-jitsu. How long do you think you could last with one of these two wrestlers?’ It was Bobby Lashley, who wrestled for the Army, and Shelton Benjamin, who wrestled at Minnesota.”
The Undertaker added that Punk was confident, telling the roster “I’ll tap them out.” Despite this bravado, Punk was quickly humbled by Lashley and Benjamin.
“I want to say the first match lasted about 47 seconds. The other one was sub-40, where they had taken them down and pinned him. He didn’t back down, but my goodness, it was like blood in the water and two great white sharks circling.”
Years later, Punk would compete in the UFC and have similarly rotten luck. Punk lost two fights for the promotion, though one of his losses was overturned after his opponent tested positive for performance-enhancing substances.
CM Punk may have accidentally revealed the ring attire he’ll wear for his WWE run going forward. Click here to find out more.
Roxanne Perez has made her name as part of WWE NXT for some time now, but The Prodigy will soon make an appearance for Reality of Wrestling.
On Twitter, the official ROW account announced that Perez will be coming “home” for the upcoming ‘One Night Only’ event. The show will take place in Texas City, Texas, on January 13, 2024.
?? BREAKING NEWS ??
NXT Superstar @roxanne_wwe makes her return home to Reality Of Wrestling for One Night Only on Saturday, January 13th for the first event of 2024. #Slamuary
?9300 Emmett F Lowry Expressway Texas City, TX 77591
It’s fitting that Perez will be at the upcoming Reality of Wrestling show given her history with the promotion. After training under Booker T, Perez made her in-ring debut for the Texan legend’s Reality of Wrestling promotion in December 2018. As Rok-C, Perez is a former ROW Diamonds Division Champion. Booker has often referred to his personal connection to Perez on WWE NXT as the two-time Hall of Famer serves as a commentator for the gold brand.
The American Nightmare was in an especially generous mood after this week’s episode of WWE Monday Night Raw went off the air.
This week’s episode of the Red brand was the final live show for the year, as next week’s Raw will be a compilation show celebrating the best of 2023. This week’s Raw saw the continuation of Seth Rollins’s feud with Drew McIntyre ahead of their pair’s World Heavyweight Championship match on the ‘Day 1’ episode of Raw. Katana Chance & Kayden Carter won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships this week, ending the reign of Chelsea Green and Piper Niven.
Cody Rhodes at Monday Night Raw
The December 18, 2023, episode of Raw was not a good one for Cody Rhodes, who continues to be the victim of mind games by Shinsuke Nakamura. The Japanese Superstar was in a festive mood and read his poem ‘The American Nightmare Before Christmas, which featured several insults at Cody, including:
“You b*stard, you cancer, You prancer you nitwit. You’re vomit, you’re stupid. Your father was inbred.”
Rhodes would attack Nakamura for these comments, leading to a brawl that would be broken up by security.
Cody Rhodes After Monday Night Raw
Despite this interaction with Nakamura, Rhodes was in a much better mood after this week’s Raw went off the air. In an off-air segment, Rhodes gifted an entire Christmas tree to a fan at ringside.
This isn’t the first time Rhodes has given something away after a WWE show. In the past, the American Nightmare has given away parts of a table broken during a stipulation match.
Jey Uso made YEET pop with the WWE Universe. This is something that the Usos were saying for a while, as they brought the saying over from other places, but Jey Uso really gave it a life of its own.
The YEET trademark was a matter of dispute for a moment, and a big question mark hovered over Jey Uso’s famous word. That cause the company to list his YEET merchandise as “sold out,” but that was only for a limited time.
YEET is Blurred in New WWE Merchandise
WWE was able to work out the legal situation involving YEET, so they can use it again. Now, they have dropped a new piece of merchandise to commemorate that period of time when fans couldn’t get their hands on any YEET merchandise.
The company released a YEET shirt, but the word is blurred on the front. This is a nice touch, and it only proves that they are well aware that this story was a hot topic with fans.
What Does YEET Mean?
YEET did not originate from pro wrestling but gained popularity in Vine videos around 2014. People began using the word before executing significant moves or tossing objects. Over time, it transformed into a viral meme and found its way into various contexts, including video games and, more recently, pro wrestling.
The Problem With YEET in WWE
WWE’s trademark issue concerning Jey Uso’s YEET is clear-cut. The trademark was previously owned by Kasey Huffman, an independent professional wrestler from West Virginia, who has held the rights to the term “YEET” since 2021. This situation has led to evident complications.
WWE and Kasey Huffman were apparently able to work out a deal, because it is YEET once again for Jey Uso in WWE. Now, it is off to the races with new merchandise to make up for the short period of time that it was no YEET at WWE’s official shop.
Jey Uso recorded a short plug for his new merchandise backstage at RAW. He proudly proclaimed that it’s his YEET now.
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance are the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.
Chance and Carter defeated Chelsea Green & Piper Niven on this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw to win the titles — their first as a team since being called up to the main roster from NXT earlier this year.
Carter & Chance fought as the underdogs for much of the match against Green and Niven despite the champions actively trying to convince Raw General Manager, Adam Pearce, to cancel the match in the spirit of the holiday season. Chance and Carter connected with their tandem neckbreaker and 450 splash finish to earn the victory.
Kayden and Katana "AfterParty" finisher is so darn good looking they are such a complete tag team in the ring and they deserve the titles #WWERaw???pic.twitter.com/uyCy7EkE9O
Carter & Chance were called up to the main roster and drafted to Raw from NXT in the 2023 WWE Draft. The duo won the Women’s NXT Tag Team Championship in August of 2022 and held those titles until being beat by Kiana James and Fallon Henley in February of 2023.
Chelsea Green originally became tag team champions with Sonya Deville. Deville was forced to take time away from WWE to heal from an injury and Piper Niven supplanted herself in place as Green’s partner. Chelsea Green’s title reign with Deville/Niven lasted 152 days.
Backstage after the win, Triple H congratulated the new champions and wrote on Instagram, “The party’s just getting started.”
AEW World Champion Maxwell Jacob Friedman is a Hall of Famer at just 27 years old. On Monday, Dec. 18, the wrestling champion best known as MJF was inducted into The National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, in Commack, New York at the Suffolk Y JCC.
MJF’s Induction Speech for the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame
When accepting his induction, MJF spoke about his pride in his religion and the significance of being honored by the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. He encouraged children to chase after their dreams no matter what and to never listen to people who doubt them.
“I’m so proud to be a Jew. Growing up, there was not a lot of people to look up to, as far as it went to the professional wrestling landscape,” said MJF.
He added that he did look up to the likes of Paul Heyman and Goldberg, who are also Jewish. However, he joked that Heyman wasn’t an athlete and the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion never discussed being Jewish on TV and just made “Growling noises.”
He added, “…So it’s really important to me that there’s going to be a crop of kids that are going to have somebody that they get to look up to.”
Friedman joins his family member in the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, NFL player Benny Friedman.
MJF Year In Wrestling
It has been a memorable year for MJF, as he has held the AEW World Championship throughout 2023. He won the title by defeating Jon Moxley at AEW Full Gear on November 19, 2022. While fans weren’t sure what to expect from him as a champion, MJF has had one of the best reigns in the company’s history.
He’s successfully defended the title in high-profile matches against Bryan Danielson, Adam Cole, and Kenny Omega. The AEW World Champion also had the honor of main eventing the company’s biggest event, AEW All In, on August 27 in a sold-out crowd in Wembley Stadium in London, England.
MJF defends the AEW World Championship against Samoa Joe at AEW World’s End on December 30 from Long Island’s Nassau Coliseum.
The latest achievement of getting inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall Of Fame is another great highlight for MJF this year.
CM Punk is full of ideas, but not all of those inspirations will see the light of day. It seems that the Second City Savior had a very interesting idea for Lio Rush while he was in AEW, one that would have seen a familiar face manage the former Cruiserweight Champion.
CM Punk’s Big Idea For Lio Rush In AEW
In an interview with MuscleManMalcolm, Lio Rush shared a CM Punk-related pitch that would have delighted many fans of Danielle Fishel and pro wrestling.
This idea would have seen the Boy Meets World star managing Lio Rush. Sadly, that idea never came to fruition.
“I’ve got a story with CM Punk; I definitely have a story with CM Punk. I remember me and CM Punk doing like the beginning of the show when we first all came in the building. And I remember seeing him sitting in the bleachers, and I just walked over and introduced myself to him. Told him how much I looked up to him as, you know, as a kid. I didn’t want to make him feel old, but I told him that I looked up to him. That I appreciate his work and his time in WWE.”
“A couple of months later, probably about a month or two later, he ended up coming to me with an idea. I don’t even know if I should say this, but I’m just gonna say it anyway. I remember he came up with an idea where he wanted Danielle Fishel to come into AEW to be my manager because we had that mutual friend in Danielle. So, yeah, that was an idea that came up that he wanted to talk to me about that never really came to fruition. But yeah, that’s my CM Punk story. I’ve got a couple of more, but maybe I’ll save it for a book one day.”
Topanga did not make her AEW managerial debut alongside Lio Rush, but it was a good idea at the time. CM Punk and Lio Rush are both no longer with AEW, as they departed for their own controversial reasons.
Danielle Fishel is known for her pro wrestling fandom. She’s been spotted at plenty of pro wrestling events, and has also recently hung out with Trish Stratus and Mick Foley at a public appearance. Even though Tony Khan didn’t give Fishel her manager license that time around, we have to wonder if she’d be up to take on the challenge down the line.
After an ongoing struggle with substance abuse issues Shannon Moore was close to ending his life, but he credits WWE and one particular Hall of Famer for saving his.
A new article by the Tampa Bay Times focuses on Moore’s inspiring life journey so far and how he’s been able to help so many others after being six years sober.
Moore said that his primary drug abuse came from using painkillers initially, but branched out even further to other drugs, something that he was introduced early in his career. He said that his real problems came back in 2012 once he took a leave from wrestling after a TNA run. He had a lot of time and a lot of money on his hands.
“That was the worst thing I ever did,” he said. “I was just sitting at home. I had time. I had money. And what do you do? You just party. I think that’s the point where physical addiction really set in.”
Speaking on the Road Dogg Brian James’ podcast earlier this year, Moore spoke about how he was on the verge of ending his life and potentially ending his ex-wife’s until he gave James a call.
“I said, ‘Hey, dude, you’re probably going to hear about me on the news. Something bad is going to happen,’” Moore said. “He reached back out, and the rest is history.”
James is also over a decade sober and he was someone that Moore kept having on his mind during the darkest time of his life. Now Moore works as a client relations manager at Riverside Recovery in Tampa. He still wrestles, but doesn’t plan on going back to it full-time.
“There have been plenty of offers,” Moore said. “But Riverside has an amazing team. I believe in what we are doing. I’ve got a taste of being in service. My whole thing now is just trying to do my part and hopefully use my platform and use my career to hopefully help somebody.”
Dirty Dom’s new deal is rumored to be a five-year contract. No note about the length of Rey Mysterio’s new deal was made.
Rey Mysterio has been part of WWE on and off since 2002. He made his most recent comeback in 2018 and, two years later, formed a team with his son, Dominik Mysterio. AEW was actually a thought on the table for Rey Mysterio, but he stayed with WWE for his son, a move that has paid off in time.
Their partnership continued until last summer, when Dominik betrayed Rey, leading to a match at this year’s WrestleMania, which Rey won.
What’s Next For Rey Mysterio In WWE?
Currently, sidelined due to a knee injury, Rey Mysterio’s absence from the storyline occurred after Santos Escobar turned on him following WWE Crown Jewel. The reason behind Escobar’s betrayal was Mysterio choosing Carlito over him.
The expectation is that Santos Escobar will introduce new allies to team with against the LWO. At this time, that storyline may be waiting for Rey Mysterio’s in-ring return, but it was reportedly in the pipeline.
Since parting ways with his father, Dominik Mysterio joined the Judgment Day stable, aligning closely with Rhea Ripley. He is also a two-time NXT North American Champion, with his most recent title loss to Dragon Lee at NXT Deadline earlier this month.
WWE has taken care of the Mysterio Family at this point. Now, both father and son are locked into the company with contracts for years to come.
We will have more updates on WWE’s contract landscape at SE Scoops as they are made available.
CJ Perry took her time getting to AEW after her WWE release. Some fans wondered if her debut for Tony Khan’s company would even happen at one point. Now that she is All Elite, it appears she is forced to take a break from action.
CJ Perry’s Infection Problem
Over the weekend, CJ Perry posted pictures on social media, revealing an unexpected health challenge. The photos documented a finger infection, leading to an unplanned visit to the emergency room.
#CMLL Please keep me in your prayers I’m at the ER @vphcares. The infection from my small finger has gone up my arm. I am so sorry I had to miss last night and @AEW tonight. I look forward to debuting in Mexico with @AndradeElIdolo. Good luck @ToBeMiro and my client… pic.twitter.com/UcFAg9WLU2
CJ Perry openly discussed how the health issue affected her professional commitments, causing her to miss the AEW Collision episode on December 16th and the CMLL show on Friday, where Andrade El Idolo was scheduled to perform. The included caption explained the situation, highlighting the severity of the finger infection.
Things Got Worse For CJ Perry
Now, it appears that CJ Perry’s situation got worse. The former Lana updated fans to let them know that she will require surgery to fix her problem.
I have been in the ER and hospital for over 50 hours. The infection has gotten worse, and I’m going into surgery tonight. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I love you all
I have been in the ER and hospital for over 50 hours. The infection has gotten worse and I’m going into surgery tonight. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I love you all ?? pic.twitter.com/P5JdwfQqu2
We’re sending our best to CJ Perry, from everyone here at SE Scoops. This is a trying situation, but hopefully, she is in good hands with medical professionals.
If you have a brother or a sister you’re close to, get ready to text them after you see “The Iron Claw.” I was fortunate enough to have mine sitting right beside me to catch an advance screening of the film, and both of us being ardent wrestling fans, it hit several different notes.
The looming tragedy of the Von Erich’s is immediately set in the first scene of the film with Holt McCallany as Fritz Von Erich, battling in “Raging Bull” black and white, showing the raw brutality that pro wrestling fanatics of yesteryear yearned for. The punishment wrestlers put on their bodies is a lingering backdrop to the sad story that’s on tap. Director Sean Durkin does a beautiful job at making it a visual necessity, giving the viewers the feeling that they’re the ones taking the elbows and backdrops. The cinematography is foreboding and immersive throughout the majority of the film.
Dominic DeAngelo of SEScoops is joined by his wrestling podcast brother, Marcus DeAngelo, to give their advanced (spoiler-free) review of “The Iron Claw” – including if it hits with wrestling fans, if it hits with the non-wrestling fans, the standout performances and what was missing.
The Acting ‘Does The Work’ In “Iron Claw”
From a performance standpoint, there isn’t a weak link in “The Iron Claw.” McCallany (from “Mindhunters” the amazing short-lived FX boxing series “Lights Out”) is prideful, blunt and frustratingly cold as patriarch Fritz. Zac Efron will surprise people with the range he shows playing the title role of Kevin Von Erich, bringing a caring naivety to a person who ultimately endures so much. Jeremy Allen White delivers as Kerry, so much that it feels like he doesn’t get enough screen time. However, the low-key stars of the Von Erich brothers are the portrayals of David and Mike.
Harris Dickinson gives the role of David his just due, the Von Erich brother who really defined the familial identity that so many World Class fans were drawn to. He’s positioned in a supporting role, but his efforts are imperative to displaying the loving kinship the brothers have with one another, making his passing all the more devastating.
Stanley Simons is spot-on at portraying the unnecessary loss that became Mike Von Erich. Due to his lack of desire to wrestle, Mike was a lighting rod for the cruelty of Fritz. Simons is excellent as the funny, sweet son who could have been an invaluable asset to the family’s success without ever having to step inside the ring. He, for many reasons, defines the tragedy as a whole.
Familiar Faces & Heels
When it comes to the wrestler cameos, they are there, but they don’t necessarily stand out to the un “mark”-ed eye. Ryan Nemeth has brief dialogue as Gino Hernandez and you see Chavo Guerrero Jr. working smoothly against Efron as The Original Sheik. “Iron Claw” executive producer MJF gets just a sip rather than a full “cup of coffee” as Lance Von Erich. The fake family cousin has literally a second of screen time (but the AEW Champ does makes the most of that).
Two legends do get their promo time in the film. We have a full monologue from Ric Flair, portrayed by Aaron Dean Eisenberg. His mannerisms, cadence and body type are pretty accurate to that of The Nature Boy’s and it’s likely the closest you can get without grabbing a time machine. It’s hard to nail Ric Flair without actually having Ric Flair.
The other talent to get a spotlight was Harley Race and it’s with good reason. Kevin Anton nails it as “The Greatest on God’s Green Earth.” Fans will also enjoy seeing the Fabulous Freebirds get their screen time, but may also come away not being fully satisfied considering how big that rivalry was for WCCW. The late Jerry Jarrett gets a hat-tip with a portrayal near the end of the film.
Music Puts You In A “Stranglehold”
Music in “The Iron Claw” is, quite simply, great. You want those 1979 vibes? The film delivers and Von Erich fans will absolutely eat up the “Tom Sawyer”-fueled montage mid-film (I know I did). It should be a sought-after playlist on Spotify. Coinciding with this vibe, is the film’s first showing of Allen White as Kerry. In true pro wrestling fashion, Durkin makes you wait in anticipation for your first sight of the late great Texas Tornado.
Significant Differences From The Full Story Down In Denton, TX
From a historically accurate standpoint, “The Iron Claw” takes its fair share liberties; primarily its biggest one is not including the youngest brother, Chris Von Erich, at all in the film. Like Kerry and Mike, the smaller Chris also committed suicide in 1991 after not being able to compete in the ring due to health issues.
In addition to that glaring omission, timelines are shifted and occurrences are substituted in an effort to streamline the story for the masses. Fans super in tune with the Von Erich history may come away frustrated, but local Pittsburgh wrestler, Shawn Blanchard, a WCCW diehard, didn’t let that deter his overall enjoyment of the film. In turn, fellow wrestling journalist Tom Letergy noted it may be difficult for the regular movie goer to keep track of all the “who, where, and when” (Note: We were watching it on a Dolby surround screen and the bottom part of the film was cut off, so there could have been significant notations us viewers didn’t see.)
While it’s touched upon, the wild lifestyle of all the Von Erich brothers was mostly burdened onto Kerry in an effort to show his own unraveling. Like Kerry, Kevin also had the tendency to get crazy and miss shows. More of an effort could have been made to embrace the fun (yet ultimately destructive) side of the business that the brothers were known for, simply to give viewers a break from all that heartache.
Family Comes First In “The Iron Claw”
As expected, the overall story of the film is drastically sobering. That’s all the more accentuated if you grew up in a family of siblings, have experienced loss, or are concerned with losing someone. There were several moments where I wanted to turn to my own brother and tell him how much I love him, but I followed the unhealthy method of the callous Fritz by expressing no feelings. It’s certainly moving for a wrestling fan looking through such a prism. Therefore, the ending of the film makes a very unique choice to lighten all the sadness the family endured and if you loved the Von Erichs, you’ll be grateful for the effort made.
If you’re an old school wrestling fan, you’ll have plenty to appreciate. If you have a brother you can talk to afterwards, you’ll have even more.
“The Iron Claw” releases everywhere on December 22. Follow Dominic DeAngelo on X @DominicDeAngelo.
Impact Wrestling is making an effort to get wrestling fans excited about the return of TNA and they’re loading up their first official PPV with some big matches and it sounds like a major name as well.
Impact took to social media to reveal that “Worlds will collide” on January 13 as the company emphasizes that fans “won’t believe who is showing up” to TNA Hard To Kill.
Additionally, Impact CEO Scott D’Amore joined “Busted Open Radio” to reveal that the company signed a big name and fans will find out about it during the PPV.
“We’re right there at the goal line of finalizing one of the biggest signings in TNA. I think it’s something that’s really gonna shake things up. I think some of what we have in store is gonna blow your socks off.”
BREAKING: As @ScottDAmore teased on @BustedOpenRadio, worlds will collide on January 13 at #HardToKill LIVE on PPV from the Palms in Las Vegas – you WON'T BELIEVE who is showing up!
D’Amore and Impact are getting fans hyped for the rebranding with some big names in wrestling, particularly two in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, will be working at TNA Snake Eyes. Both Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada are scheduled to appear at the tapings. The latter will team up with Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin to battle Eddie Edwards, Moose and Brian Myers. Ospreay’s opponent is still currently unknown.
CM Punk has worked with a variety of legends in his wrestling career, but perhaps, the biggest confidence booster came when Punk was paired to work with “The GOAT” — John Cena.
Recently, Punk joined Elite Comics11 for a live stream on Instagram, in which he was asked to recount a match that helped fit the pieces together for him as a wrestler. In response, Punk referenced a three-way bout he had with WWE Hall of Famers Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero in 2002 at IWA Mid-South.
In addition to learning some valuable performance elements from his two opponents, Punk also believes this match put his name on the map, setting the stage for him to eventually sign with WWE a few years later.
After joining WWE in 2005, Punk steadily raised his stock, later earning himself an opportunity to work with the arguable face of the company, John Cena. While their feud was rather intense on-screen, Punk’s work with Cena actually came with a refreshing sense of ease. It also further motivated him to step up his game.
CM Punk on working with John Cena
During the Instagram live stream, Punk spoke about working so closely with WWE’s top attraction and felt it was a sign the company trusted him to be in that coveted spot. Here’s what Punk said, transcribed by Post Wrestling:
“Now I’m here [in WWE] and then being trusted enough to work with John Cena pretty much every day, every night for quite some time,” said Punk. “We were married to each other and it was always a night off and it was always easy.
When you’re tasked with working with the guy who pretty much is the engine that makes the company go at that point, it’s kind of just like, ‘Okay, I figured it out then.’ I was like, “Alright, I know. They trust me enough and I’m not gonna do anything stupid, I’m not gonna hurt the guy.’
It’s always good and it’s quality and it was fun and it was different and they trusted me to keep it different and it wasn’t the same thing all the time.”
Watch: CM Punk vs. John Cena WWE Championship match:
Mustafa Ali has to be itching to get back into the wrestling ring. Ali (real name Adeel Alam) was one of the many WWE talents to be released back in September and an indication of his eagerness was displayed on Monday. Ali took to social media to make a post of a video with a countdown, likely teasing the day he becomes a free agent or he will reveal something regarding his pro wrestling future.
Ali is likely going to be a hot commodity in the world of wrestling considering his resume and tenure in WWE. Mustafa Ali dealt with his fair share of frustration while working with WWE as he constantly had acts that were started and stopped, most notably may be the failed Retribution faction during the global pandemic. Ali was revealed to be the leader of the short-lived group, but following its dispersement, he floated on and off television.
However, Ali saw a resurgence when he began working with Shawn Michaels and NXT, and Michaels expressed how big of a fan he was of Ali personality and work ethic.
A great landing spot for Ali could be the returning TNA. His athleticism fits the brand and the stars are aligning for the company to announce some significant names as the company looks forward to its Hard To Kill PPV on January 13.
Fellow former WWE Cruiserweight Champion KUSHIDA has been announced to sign with TNA, and Ali could likely become a major player within the promotion considering both his skillset and his promo ability.
