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CJ Perry Enduring Painful Treatments to Avoid Second Hand Surgery

Ella Jay
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Last month, CJ Perry sustained a serious MRSA infection after getting a small splinter in her finger while backstage at AEW. After the infection began spreading up Perry’s arm, Perry was then required to undergo emergency surgery Perry and real-life Miro later announced that the surgery was successful. 

Unfortunately, Perry is now experiencing a setback in her recovery journey. 

Infection ‘Relapse’

Over the weekend, CJ Perry provided an update on her post-surgery care (via X), revealing that she had a ‘relapse’ in her MRSA infection after her antibiotics stopped working. As a result, Perry was rushed to the hospital, where a surgeon cleaned out her wound in the search for blood. 

When no blood emerged, the doctor inserted a long IV needle into Perry’s hand, which Perry described as a fire-like ‘stinging sensation,’ to numb the area around her finger. The doctor then continued to dig through Perry’s finger until they spotted blood.

Following this treatment, Perry was instructed to return to the surgeon to repeat the process every day this week. Perry has also been put back on antibiotics. 

In a separate TikTok video, Perry revealed she may need a second surgery on her finger. Should doctors determine that a follow-up operation is necessary, Perry says they plan on taking skin from either a ring finger or her palm to act as a skin graft. 

For now, though, Perry will continue forward with her daily doctor’s visits in the hope that her recovery continues on an upward trajectory. 

From everyone here at SEScoops, we send our best wishes to CJ Perry.

Bayley Wants to Face This ‘Untouchable’ WWE Star at WrestleMania

Ella Jay
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Eager to secure herself a singles match at WrestleMania 40, former WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley was the first to declare herself for the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble. And while the event is still nearly two weeks away, Bayley has made it clear that if she wins the Women’s Royal Rumble match, she plans to challenge WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley. 

Praise For Ripley

Speaking with The New York Post, Bayley shared praise for Ripley’s journey through WWE, which has resulted in her now being the most talked about woman on WWE programming.

“If I’m able to work with [Rhea] at WrestleMania, that would just be a dream match I never even thought of before,” Bayley said. “She is obviously untouchable. She is the most talked about woman on TV right now and she backs it up. She doesn’t just have the look. She doesn’t just have the body. She doesn’t just have – besides Damage CTRL – a badass group to align with. She’s so good and it makes me so mad. ‘I’m like why are you so good, you are so young.’ I can’t even throw a drop kick and she can do one over my head. Just little things that she does that she’s able to do and portray on TV is very hard to do and she does it with ease.”

Excluding past Royal Rumble matches, “The Role Model” and “The Eradicator” have only shared a ring on three other occasions. After teaming together in the 2022 Women’s WarGames match, Ripley and Bayley found themselves in opposite corners during a triple threat match to determine the number one contender to the WWE RAW Women’s Championship — a match that saw Bayley emerge victorious. The two later met again in March 2023 for a singles affair on RAW, in which Ripley picked up the win. 

Should Bayley and Ripley face off at WrestleMania 40, it will mark only their second singles match. 

“She carried that title on her back proudly,” Bayley said. “I’m gonna have to take it off of her and it will be an honor to do. It will be an honor, Rhea.”

Cora Jade Suffered Legit Injury At Recent WWE NXT Live Event

Aaron Varble
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Pro wrestlers put their bodies on the line every time they step in the ring. Now, sadly, Cora Jade is sidelined, and her injury is real.

Cora Jade’s Recent Injury

Cora Jade and Lyra Valkyria faced each other in the main event, and regrettably, Jade fell to the mat at some point. This resulted in, what could be, a drastic change of plans for Shawn Michaels’ NXT booking.

We previously covered that Jade went down during an NXT live event, and she did not get up. This caused alarm as WWE’s medical team tended to her in the ring. 

Dave Meltzer has now updated fans to say that the former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion suffered an ACL tear. The severity of her tear was not noted.

The Cora Jade knee injury from the weekend house show we talked about on the show last night is an ACL tear.

Cora Jade & CM Punk

Cora Jade has a bright future in WWE, and she has some great connections in the company. Not only has she impressed many with her work ethic at this point, but she is also a favorite of CM Punk’s. 

While Jade was a WWE fan in her younger days, she was a huge fan of CM Punk and AJ Lee. Now, in her career as a WWE Superstar, she has a much different appreciation for everything they’ve done.

Jade received a nice surprise from Punk while he stopped by NXT after his WWE return. The two got along very well, and the Second City Savior worked out with Cora Jade, and others, at the WWE Performance Center while he was around.

Nic Nemeth Had Many Places Reach Out To Him After WWE Release

Aaron Varble
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WWE released a lot of talent in September, and Dolph Ziggler’s name was arguably the most surprising one. Now the former World Champion is making his own way through the pro wrestling world, as he has popped up for both TNA Wrestling and NJPW so far. There were a lot of options on the table for Nic Nemeth.

Nic Nemeth Had Options

The former Dolph Ziggler has garnered attention in recent weeks by appearing for NJPW and, most recently, TNA, marking a nearly 20-year tenure in WWE. One thing is very clear, he is getting priority booking wherever he goes.

During a conversation on TNA’s Instagram after Hard To Kill, Nemeth disclosed that numerous individuals contacted him post his release, expressing their desire to have him in their company.

Nic Nemeth reflected on the past three, four, five, six months, contemplating how to prolong his legacy and embark on a distinct chapter with a new mindset and persona. 

He expressed feeling like a wanted individual, recounting the multitude of people who reached out to him after his departure from his previous job. These messages weren’t mere expressions of thanks or congratulations, but rather indications of a significant level of interest and desire for his involvement.

A bunch of people reached out instantly and said, ‘We want you here.’ I go, man, it is great to feel that. I’m very fortunate and lucky that people [said], ‘How can we get you? What can we do?’ I was like, I’m kind of a wanted man, it got me more excited, like I’m back in, okay. I was like, ‘I could show up and be a hired gun here. I could take this guy out, and we could go run. I’m figuring out, where could we go, and I watched TNA go to IMPACT and become TNA in this special moment at Hard To Kill, where this is a coming-out party for TNA again. I go, that could be a perfect fit. Hopefully, I can back it up in the ring, other than just talking about it and showing up.

Dolph Ziggler’s Next Moves in Pro Wrestling

Many fans expected Nic to arrive in AEW eventually, because Ryan Nemeth, his brother, is on Tony Khan’s roster. He was also telling Nic for a decade that he should leave WWE. That has not happened yet, but at this rate, nothing would surprise us.

TNA Wrestling delivered on a big surprise at the end of Hard to Kill with Nemeth, and he has already wrestled for the company. Someone like Nic Nemeth obviously has options on the table.

Trinity’s WWE Return May Be Stalled Due To TNA Wrestling Commitments

Aaron Varble
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TNA Wrestling presented their Hard to Kill event on Saturday, and a few titles changed hands. After Jordynne Grace won the Knockouts Title from Trinity, many assumed that reports about Naomi’s WWE return were on the money. That comeback may have to wait.

Trinity Fatu’s Current Status

Following her loss of the Knockouts Title to Jordynne Grace at Hard To Kill, some speculated that Trinity’s time with TNA Wrestling had concluded. Contrary to expectations, reports now suggest that her return to WWE might not be imminent.

PW Insider noted that Trinity had additional scheduled dates with TNA Wrestling, and she did not fulfill her commitment on Sunday. This may push her WWE comeback even further.

We are told Trinity had several more dates with the promotion and did not finish up yesterday at TV, where she wrestled Jordynne Grace.

In the past, WWE typically prefers to bring in talent after they wrap up commitments with another television-prominent promotion. They don’t really like to share talent on television, and it’s a rarity that they will even allow a Superstar to do anything else for another company.

TNA Wrestling’s Morale is Good

The report from Mike Johnson further noted that morale within the promotion reportedly experienced a boost after these events, coinciding with the official reintroduction of the TNA brand at Hard to Kill.

It was also noted that Kazuchika Okada’s return to the company after many years was a “healing” moment. This comes after he had been treated so poorly by the previous administration so many years ago.

Trinity may still be WWE-bound, but it appears she has a few more dates with TNA Wrestling to go. Nothing is 100% until contracts are signed, so she may just decide to stick around with the freshly re-branded company, because that option is likely there for her as well.

Bret Hart Wants Grandchild to Wrestle, TNA Hard to Kill Proposal, MJF’s Rumble Odds

Thomas Lowson
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Bret Hart’s Question for his Grandchild

Bret Hart is unquestionably one of the greatest wrestlers of all time and the Hitman has high-expectations for his new grandchild. In a wholesome video shared online, Hart can be seen holding his new grandchild and asking how their ‘tie-ups’ are. 

TNA Hard to Kill Proposal

TNA Hard to Kill was a historic night for the promotion, with Nic Nemeth debuting in the closing moments of the show to confront Moose. Ash By Elegance also made her debut during the show. Before Hard to Kill went on the air though, one member of the ring crew won big when he popped the question to his partner, who was thrilled to say yes. 

https://twitter.com/JoelPearl/status/1746682871929246018

MJF in the Royal Rumble? 

For some time, MJF teased that he would be leaving AEW when his contract expired on January 1, 2024, and that he’d be joining WWE, Despite reports that MJF signed a new deal with AEW last year, Bet Online have listed MJF as a potential winner of the Royal Rumble, giving him +1000 odds. The current favorite to win the match (according to Bet Online) is CM Punk with +150 odds, followed by GUNTHER (+300) and Cody Rhodes (+400)

Ash By Elegance’s Sponsorship

Ash By Elegance (fka Dana Brooke) made her TNA debut at the recent Hard to Kill event. On Instagram, the elegant wrestler shared that she has partnered up with Draft Kings for UFC 297 and urged fans to use a special promo code to get bonus bets for the Draft Kings app. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C2H-bT0LFwk

Judge Makes It Clear To Teddy Hart That He’s Out Of Continuances

Aaron Varble
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Teddy Hart is no stranger to the legal system at this point, and he keeps his attorneys very busy. Now, he will have to wait even longer to see his day in court, but the judge made it clear that they won’t let him push things back again.

Teddy Hart’s Latest Legal Situation

Teddy Hart appeared in court on January 11th, stemming from his arrest on July 15th, 2023, facing charges of possession of MDMA (ecstasy) and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription—both classified as third-degree felonies in Florida.

Alongside these charges, he was cited for failing to stop at a steady red light, the incident that led to his initial arrest. This encounter with the law adds to Teddy Hart’s history of previous run-ins with the police.

Teddy Hart Granted One More Continuance 

The court appearance in Titusville, Florida, last Thursday was designated as a mandatory session for “Early Resolution.” However, according to PW Insider, Teddy Hart’s defense sought and was granted a continuance during the hearing. 

The rescheduled hearing is now set for February 8th, with a clear message from the court that it will be the final opportunity for the defense to request any further delays. 

Edward “Teddy Hart” Annis’ defense requested and received a continuance at his hearing on 1/11. The court agreed and moved the hearing to 2/8, noting it would be the final time the defense is allowed to do so.

The judge emphasized that no additional continuances would be granted. Teddy Hart, initially expected to follow the path of the legendary Hart family and become a prominent wrestling figure, has faced setbacks in the wrestling industry due to personal issues and legal challenges.

Austin Theory May Have Entered Medical Protocol After Scary Botched Spot On WWE SmackDown

Aaron Varble
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WWE Superstars are professionals, but they aren’t perfect. Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes’ match on SmackDown last week ended suddenly, but thankfully, they are both okay now.

Carmelo Hayes & Austin Theory’s Scary Botched Spot

On the January 12th episode of WWE SmackDown, the match featuring Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes was halted by the referee due to an incident during an Avalanche Spanish Fly from the top turnbuckle that resulted in both wrestlers landing awkwardly. 

The referee, signaling the “X” position to indicate a potential injury, decided to wave off the match. Reports indicated that facial contusions were sustained by both wrestlers as a consequence of the spot.

Bryan Alvarez shared an update on Wrestling Observer Radio, suggesting that Austin Theory entered medical protocol, hinting at a potentially more significant impact from the incident. 

Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown

Carmelo Hayes previously made his SmackDown debut towards the end of the preceding year, participating in the WWE United States Championship No.1 Contenders Tournament. 

His return to the blue brand occurred in a backstage segment, discussing Royal Rumble chances with SmackDown GM Nick Aldis, leading to a confrontation with Austin Theory and Grayson Waller and ultimately setting up the match between Hayes and Theory later in the show.

Hayes is currently booked with Trick Williams in a team as they take on the 2024 Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. That storyline is getting a big spotlight in NXT, as it should. 

Exclusive Insight On Austin Theory & Carmelo Hayes’ Botched Spot

I was told by a tenured member of the WWE team that the referee was actually concerned about both Theory and Hayes after that botches spot. It was not one more than the other.

I was further told that the “referee thought they were both hurt and did the proper protocol by calling for the bell and calling for the doctor.”

WWE’s commentary team also praised the referee in this instance for his quick decision-making, as they put an emphasis on keeping Superstar safety at the forefront. 

Hulk Hogan Rescues 17-Year-Old Driver After Car Flips in Terrifying Accident

Thomas Lowson
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Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan proved to be a good samaritan this week after helping a woman whose car had flipped over. 

Hogan, his wife Sky, and a friend were driving on Sunday evening in Clearwater, Florida when they witnessed the wreck play out in front of them. Sources told TMZ that a car erratically swerved across the lanes to catch an exit it was about to miss. That car would clip another car, which would flip over and tumble. 

Hogan’s vehicle pulled over immediately and the three rushed to the aid of the 17-year-old driver who was said to be “rattled.” Hogan and his friend Jake, a former marine, helped the young woman out of the car. Jake punctured the woman’s airbag and he and Hogan were able to lift her out of the vehicle to safety. Hogan, Jake, and Sky watched on as paramedics arrived. 

The woman appeared to be okay, despite the shock of the ordeal. Hogan, who was wearing a blue bandana and a New World Order shirt, was said to be “happy to help.”

Hulk Hogan’s Wild Recent Months

The Hulkster has had quite an interesting time in his life in recent months. In September 2023, Hogan married Sky Daily in a low-key ceremony in Florida. Less than two months into this marriage, however, Hogan’s name would make headlines after his son Nick was arrested and charged with a DUI. The Hulkster recently underwent a baptism, which he called the greatest day of his life.

Could Hulk Hogan be working towards a WWE in-ring return? One fellow Hall of Famer believes it could happen…

Eric Bischoff is Grateful for Every Day He Doesn’t Have to Work for Tony Khan

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff is relishing in not working for Tony Khan, and is grateful for every day he doesn’t have to answer to the AEW President. 

While Bischoff has made a handful of appearances for AEW, it’s been some time since the WCW magnate was invited to a show. Bischoff has been critical of AEW in recent years, and while he’s made it clear he wants AEW to succeed, he has been unimpressed by the work of Tony Khan. Last October, Bischoff claimed that Khan is “beyond help” and dismissed the AEW President as a Vince McMahon and Paul Heyman wannabee. 

Bischoff Responds to Dax Harwood

Bischoff’s issues with Tony Khan are well-documented and Easy-E only added to the tensions this week. On the latest episode of his 83 Weeks Podcast, Bischoff didn’t hold back. He first discussed Dax calling him out over his remarks on AEW:

“Either my skin has gotten so thick that I just don’t react to things the way I used to or maybe you just get wiser with age and having kind of been there when I was younger, kinda where Dax is right now, so I kind of get it. Where is Dax in his career? He’s got to say these things. He’s out there promoting his company. He’s defending his company. His boss made a complete Jackass of himself on social media during the week previous to this appearance he made.

So I get it, because what else is Dax going to do? If he doesn’t have a gig in AEW? And I don’t mean that as a shot because I like him. I like the tag team, like you do for the same reasons. But I don’t know if going back to the WWE is an option. Maybe it is. We’ve seen crazier things. I don’t know the situation where Dax left and how he left it and if he had heat or didn’t have heat or I don’t know any of that stuff. Maybe there’s chance he could go back but I think those odds are probably remote at this point. So what’s he’s got? He’s got the gig he’s got. And I don’t disagree.

Tony Khan has put a lot of money in a lot of talent’s pockets. I know people personally who are making more money who have been in the business for longer than I have and are making more money than they ever have. So you know that I’m not exaggerating anything here. You don’t hear anybody in AEW complaining about their paychecks, but the opposite. Sure, that’s great for talent. That’s great for those individuals, and I’m happy for them. Just like I’m happy for someone who wins a lottery. I don’t wanna see anybody not get what they can get out there in the marketplace. So let’s dispel that, I agree with that, it’s a wonderful thing for humanity.

But it doesn’t mean it’s good for the business. What Tony Khan has been doing and some of the presentations that we’ve seen out of AEW is not better for the business, because it’s turning off advertisers. It’s turning off his own viewers. The audience is deteriorating, it’s not growing and you can talk about ‘Yeah but less people are watching TV’ and go back to that trope all you want is. Is it a fact? Sure. Is it an excuse? Probably not. WWE is growing in the same environment. Why isn’t AEW? It’s because of lack of story, it’s because of lack of character development. It’s because of lack of vision, and it’s because a lot of the chaos that’s going on behind the scenes.”

Eric Bischoff Explains His Financial Troubles

Bischoff then went into length to explain the financial troubles that led to him filing for bankruptcy in 2017. He explained that he still had to pay off all his debts which he did earlier than expected:

“Let’s just get the elephant out of the room. I wrote a book called grateful. I talked a lot about having to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This isn’t a financial [podcast] but because that’s kind of there right? So I want to address it. I’m not gonna go into detail about the differences between Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 13 Because they’re all different. Chapter 11 is a business bankruptcy primarily. It doesn’t allow me to walk away from my debts. I ended up filing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy back in 2017.

I’ve talked on this show at length about the reasons that led up to it. Basically me transitioning out of the television business. I went from making close to seven figures a year and I took an about 80% cut in pay over the course of 24 months. And then I had the state of California come knocking on my door and say, ‘I know you thought you paid all your taxes, but we realised we can find a different way to tax you on business that took place out of state simply because you have a mailbox in California.’

That was kind of a big hit. None of that really matters. To protect my home. This home is my legacy. I built this home in 1998 because I really really wanted to provide a place of stability in any situation for my family, to have a beautiful home in a beautiful part of the country. People from all over the world come here to visit. It’s that beautiful. I wanted to be able to leave this legacy to my children to enjoy it for the very same reasons. When it got to the point where that legacy, this property, this home was at risk.

I made a business decision to reorganize my debt. Not walk away from it, not fulfil my obligations to it, simply to reorganize it. That’s what a chapter 11 is. Now when I filed that chapter 11, this is back in 2017. You go through that process. At the end of it, the court says ‘Okay, you’re going to pay back 100% of this debt. you have, in my case, five years to do it.’ I did it in three. I have a seven-figure net worth. I have a very healthy credit score. I’m in really good shape as a result of being able to do some smart things.”

Eric Bischoff is Grateful 

Later in the podcast, the former WCW President explained that his frustrations with AEW have nothing to do with him wanting a job with the promotion. He mentioned he had been very supportive of the promotion since the beginning and explained what changed his stance:

“I stayed supportive until I think it was around November two years ago, a little over two years ago. Tony came out and made that completely ignorant in a literal sense of [the word] comment about Ted Turner. Paraphrasing, if Ted Turner knew 1% of professional wrestling as I do maybe WCW would still be around. Completely ignorant. Tony doesn’t have a fucking clue what went on in WCW and why it’s not around. The only thing he knows is what Dave Meltzer told him. That’s it. He wasn’t there. He has no idea.

And it was disrespectful. It was ignorant and disrespectful simultaneously. As Tony Khan’s trying desperately to hang on to his television time on Turner Network Television and Turner Broadcasting System, disrespecting the man that made that opportunity even an option. Once someone disrespects publicly, someone who I respect or have a relationship with, they go on a different list. Doesn’t mean I don’t like them. I just don’t have any respect for them. They’re just like everybody else.

I don’t care if you’re a trust fund baby that’s a wrestling fan and has a wrestling company. I no longer have any respect for you. And I’m going to react to you just like I would anybody else. So that was it, Dax. It wasn’t because I asked for a job and didn’t get one. It wasn’t because I was hoping I would get an job offer and it never came. As I said before that clip. I wake up every day grateful that I don’t have to work for someone like Tony Khan. Or even if I wanted to work for Tony Khan, I’m grateful that I don’t have to jump on a plane every week and do it. As much as anything for sure. Or put up with what has obviously been….the amount of drama that’s taken place backstage in AEW far surpasses any of the fictional drama that’s taken place in the ring for the last five years. I don’t want to be a part of that.

Now Dax I understand you have to cause you don’t have opti
ons, but I do. As I said seven-figure net worth, I live in the most beautiful place in the world. I have almost no consumer debt. Nickels and dimes. I have a beautiful wife. I have great kids, i have a new grandson. Everybody’s healthy. Everybody’s successful. I can come and go as I pleae. I can work with who I want, on what projects I want. And I have absolutely no pressure. And I’m not saying that to brag even though it is, I don’t mean it to be – but it’s context. What I’m really grateful for Dax, is I have the freedom to say whatever I want to say about whoever I want to say it about. I don’t have to worry about it affecting my income or what I want to do. Can you say the same thing Dax?”

For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

Security Was In The Dark About Jack Perry’s Surprise NJPW Appearance

Aaron Varble
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Jack Perry showed up at NJPW’s Battle in the Valley event, and he made a very bold statement. With a “Scapegoat” band on his arm, the former Jungle Boy ripped up his AEW contract to the shock of the pro wrestling world.

Jack Perry’s Big NJPW Stunt

This move from the former Jurassic Express member was shocking, to say the least. They also kept the angle very close to the vest.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer brought up Perry’s big NJPW surprise appearance. Apparently, even security was in the dark about what was going to happen.

“The security didn’t know about this angle. They thought it was a fan hitting the ring. They were quickly told it wasn’t.”

Jack Perry’s AEW Status

Jack Perry’s absence from AEW is notable, and it is even more odd that Tony Khan would allow this huge angle about his company to go down during a NJPW event. Obviously, there is a lot to unpack here, but Perry needs to make some kind of impression on AEW television to really send the message home.

He has been absent from AEW television for a very long time, as CM Punk, who was fired for his part in Brawl In, is already back in WWE at this point.

While some fans thought The Devil was Perry, that role went to Adam Cole. Now, the pro wrestling world will have to wait and see how Tony Khan plays his next move in this situation. 

Netflix’s Vince McMahon Project Is a “Big Deal”, Will Leave No Stone Unturned

Thomas Lowson
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Nothing will be held back in the upcoming Netflix project about the life, career, and controversies of TKO Group Holdings President Vince McMahon. 

WWE first announced during the 2020 Q3 earnings call that they were teaming with Netflix to create a docuseries on McMahon. In July 2022, it was reported that the project had been scrapped, and McMahon would infamously retire that same month. Just one month later, however, it was clarified that the project was still in production. 

Latest on Vince McMahon-Netflix Project

It shouldn’t be much longer before fans get to see the much-anticipated project about Vince McMahon. Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer recalled his own ties to the project. 

“Today I went to Los Angeles to do a Netflix taping (about) Vince McMahon. I guess what I can say, because I’m not supposed to say much about it, is the Netflix series is gonna be out sooner than you think. — It’s a big freakin’ deal. They’ve interviewed all kinds of people. I was told the most interesting person they’ve interviewed is Vince McMahon.”

Meltzer added that the project leaves no stone unturned when it comes to the wrestling powerhouse. 

“It’s covering the whole life of Vince McMahon. I’ve been asked about every single subject that you can think of regarding Vince McMahon, from childhood to last week, practically. Covered everything.”

A lot has changed for WWE and Vince McMahon in the three years since the Netflix deal was announced. On his show, Dave Meltzer explained how the project will reflect this. 

“The series, when it started and how it’s ended are completely different. When it started it was just ‘Vince McMahon, the owner of the company’, and now it’s not the owner of the company, and there’s all the reasons that he’s not the owner of the company, the payoffs – all that stuff happened, they were years into this documentary before all that stuff happened.” 

Vince McMahon may not be thrilled with the final project when it releases on Netflix… 

What’s Next for Will Ospreay & Kazuchika Okada After NJPW Battle in the Valley Classic?

Thomas Lowson
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Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada gave a finale to be proud of with their showdown in New Japan Pro Wrestling.

Last weekend, New Japan Pro Wrestling held its Battle in the Valley event. The show was headlined by what is likely the final chapter of Okada and Ospreay’s storied rivalry. The pair’s feud has been the crown jewel of New Japan over the past few years. The match saw Okada get the win, bringing his record against Ospreay to 8-2.

What’s Next?

Ospreay’s final match for New Japan will take place at the New Beginning in Osaka on Sunday, February 11. The match will see the United Empire face the Bullet Club War Dogs in New Japan’s first steel cage match since 2004. After this match, Ospreay will begin competing full-time for AEW.

Okada’s future is far less certain. His current deal with New Japan is set to expire by the end of this month. There has been renewed interest in Okada from WWE but it is unclear if an offer has been made at this time.

While WWE would love to sign Okada, his future may remain with New Japan. With Hiroshi Takahashi recently appointed as the promotion’s new President, there is a belief that Takahashi could resolve Okada’s strained relationship with management. Okada has also been promoted for New Japan events in February, suggesting that an agreement has already been reached.

NJPW Battle in the Valley 2024 Results

Here are the results for NJPW Battle in the Valley 2024: 

  • Pre-Show: Matt Vandagriff defeated Goldy by pinfall (Strong Survivor Match
  • Pre-Show: Stephanie Vaquer defeated Viva Van by pinfall
  • Jacob Fatu, Fred Rosser, and Shota Umino defeated Team Filthy (Tom Lawlor, Jorel Nelson, and Royce Isaacs) by pinfall
  • Máscara Dorada and Volador Jr. defeated Rocky Romero and Soberano Jr. by pinfall
  • David Finlay defeated TJP by pinfall
  • Guerrillas of Destiny (Hikuleo and El Phantasmo) (c) defeated Bullet Club War Dogs (Clark Connors and Alex Coughlin) by pinfall (NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships)
  • Giulia (c) defeated Trish Adora by pinfall (NJPW Strong Women’s Championship)
  • The Chosen Bros (Matt Riddle and Jeff Cobb) defeated TMDK (Zack Sabre Jr. and Bad Dude Tito) by pinfall
  • Eddie Kingston (c) vs. Gabe Kidd ended in a double count out (American Triple Crown Championship)
  • Jon Moxley defeated Shingo Takagi by pinfall (Steel Cage match)
  • Kazuchika Okada defeated Will Ospreay by pinfall

Roman Reigns Scheduled For Limited WWE Matches Through Summerslam

Aaron Varble
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Roman Reigns is famous for a lot of things at this point, including his incredibly light schedule. The Tribal Chief only wrestled 11 times in 2023, and he remained Undisputed Universal Champion the whole time. This year will see even more breaks for the former Shield member.

Roman Reigns only working major shows

Roman Reigns has worked a greatly reduced schedule since re-signing with WWE around WrestleMania 38 in 2022. His limited dates and infrequent title defenses led to the unification of the WWE and Universal Championships and the eventual creation of the Raw brand’s World Heavyweight championship held by inaugural champion Seth Rollins.

Despite the company expanding its reach to international markets for these premium live events, there’s no indication of a shift in Reigns’ participation. He is not advertised for the Elimination Chamber in Australia or Backlash France scheduled for May 4th, 2024.

While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that Reigns is currently slated for appearances only at the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, the next Saudi Arabia show, and SummerSlam.

“Roman Reigns is not on the Australia show (Elimination Chamber). He’s not on the Paris show (Backlash) either, by the way, for fans over there. He’s gonna be wrestling at the Royal Rumble, and then his next big match, I don’t know…he could do a TV match, but he’s gonna wrestle at the Royal Rumble, and then his next match is gonna be his WrestleMania match. And after that, I would presume it’s gonna be Saudi and SummerSlam.”

Reigns is set to defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Title against Randy Orton, LA Knight, and AJ Styles at the Royal Rumble. He will also work WrestleMania, but there are a lot of questions about his opponent for the showcase of the immortals.

The Rock’s WWE Return & Roman Reigns

The Rock’s recent return to WWE at Day 1 on January 1st sent shockwaves throughout the fan base. His mention of the Head of the Table also raised a lot of questions. 

Cody Rhodes has already spoken out about the possibility of losing his WrestleMania main event match to The Rock. He doesn’t seem to be too concerned about not being able to finish his story at this time.

Roman Reigns’ infrequent appearances will likely continue throughout 2024, as he is booked as a special attraction. He might miss some big events, but he will still be the Head of the Table until someone dethrones him.

WWE Raw Preview (Jan. 15): Jinder Mahal World Title Shot, GUNTHER Returns, Former Partners Reunite

Michael Shalik
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WWE is back in North Little Rock, AR tonight with Monday Night Raw live from the Simmons Bank Arena. We’re just 12 days out from the Royal Rumble, WWE’s first premium live event of the year and the start of WrestleMania season.

WWE has announced several matches for Raw, including an unlikely challenger battling Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship, the return of WWE’s Intercontinental Champion and former tag team partners reuniting.

WWE Raw Preview (January 15, 2024)

Here’s what we’ll see on WWE Raw tonight:

‘The American Nightmare’ Cody Rhodes will kick off the broadcast.

Announced Matches

  • Jinder Mahal vs. Seth Rollins (c) for the World Heavyweight Championship.
  • Awesome Truth (The Miz and R-Truth) vs. Judgment Day (Finn Balor and Damien Priest)(c) for the Undisputed WWE World Tag Team championship
  • DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) vs. Judgment Day (Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh)

Plus, Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER returns.

Jinder Mahal’s Chances

Does Jinder Mahal deserve a title shot against Seth Rollins? AEW President Tony Khan doesn’t think so, and made this question the focus of his latest social media ‘hot takes.’ Khan faced significant backlash for his decision to needlessly throw Mahal under the bus in an effort to criticize WWE.

Mahal has not won a match in over a year, but stranger things have happened – as evidenced by the fact that Jinder Mahal is a former WWE Champion.

As seen below, WWE is leaning into Mahal’s championship credentials. Expect to see WWE continue getting behind the Modern Day Maharaja in an effort to legitimize his worthiness as a contender.

Our WWE Raw Coverage

SEScoops.com will have plenty of news from WWE Raw tonight. We’ll be covering the show live on X/Twitter (@SEScoops) and on our Facebook page.

Pac Nearing Return After Being Spotted Backstage at Recent AEW Show

Bishal Roy
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AEW star Pac is seemingly closing-in on his return to the squared circle. 

The Brit hasn’t competed inside the ring in over five months, but he was backstage at the Homecoming edition of AEW Dynamite on January 10. It has now come to light that he was also backstage at the latest edition of AEW Collision.

The Death Triangle member’s backstage presence at Daily’s Place has prompted some to assume that his return could be only around the corner. Pac was reportedly one of several names backstage during the performance who haven’t been seen in a while.

Pac was backstage at AEW Collision

PWInsider has now reported that AEW’s first Doube Champion also made his presence felt backstage on Saturday’s AEW Collision. The outlet noted that he was working out in the squared circle before the show. This indicates his return is closer than ever.

“PAC was backstage at last night’s AEW Collision taping and was working out in the ring before the taping, so he’s back Stateside and will be back soon.”

PAC has been a part of AEW since its inception. However, his run at the promotion has been hindered by extended time offs, and the former AEW All-Atlantic Champion, who’s based out of the UK, faced travel-related complications. In addition, he has been dealing with multiple injuries in recent years.

PAC’s final match before the hiatus saw him win against Gravity on the July 26, 2023, edition of Dynamite. A few days prior, at Death Before Dishonor on July 21, Pac suffered a defeat to Claudio Castagnoli.

We will now have to wait and see how AEW plans Pac’s return.

Donald Trump Acknowledges the Iconic Duo Kane and The Undertaker During His Speech

Bishal Roy
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WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump recently mentioned WWE legends The Kane and The Undertaker during his recent speech.

In WWE, Kane was billed as The Undertaker’s brother and duo went on to have great tag team run as well as memorable storylines as rivals.

After bringing down the curtain on his pro wrestling career, Kane (real name Glenn Jacobs) became the mayor of Knox County, Tennessee. In the past, the former ‘Big Red Machine’ had backed the former President and showed his support for Trump in his attempt to get elected again.

Donald Trump talks about Kane and The Undertaker

During an event held on Sunday at the Iowa caucuses, the former Kane was one of the people who attended the show and also spoke before Donald Trump’s speech. Jacobs had nothing but praise for Donald Trump like always. 

Trump also reciprocated the feelings. He lauded Glenn Jacobs for his physique and his time in WWE. During the speech, he also namedropped The Undertaker.

Trump was slurring and fumbling over his words at times but didn’t shy away from speaking about the iconic duo of Kane and The Undertaker.

“And another man who’s a friend of mine. He’s another one I’m not going to mess around with. He’s Knox County, Tennessee, do you know Glenn Jacobs? Goes by the name, goes by the name of …. Kane. Kane. Where is Kane? Where’s the …. look at the size of this guy. Man o’ man – that’s – he’s all man. He’s all man. He’s good. How many years have you been doing that? You’ve been W, W …. Kane one of the great characters in uhm …. how many …. so how tall are you? You’re six what? 6’8 and weigh what – when you wrestle? Well that’s not bad – I’m not that far away either. That’s not good. You just ruined my day – 300 [pounds]!”

“When I see these guys, some of them like The Undertaker right? And I see him and walks around the ring lifting a 300-pound guy over his shoulders like this. It may be acting… then he throws him into the seats, it’s pretty great.”

Jacobs last competed as Kane in WWE back in 2021 as part of the men’s Royal Rumble match, while The Undertaker’s last match was at WrestleMania 36 in 2020 when he faced AJ Styles in a cinematic match, ‘Boneyard Match.’ against AJ Styles.

Attitude Era’s Jason Sensation Recovering After Double Bypass Surgery

Thomas Lowson
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Attitude Era alum Jason Sensation is recovering after recently undergoing a very serious medical procedure. 

On Instagram, WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley shared an update on Jason, stating that he recently underwent a double bypass. Foley encouraged fans to send their prayers, love, and positive thoughts in the direction of the impressionist. Canadian wrestler Kimberly Ford shared last month that Jason would be undergoing surgery.

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C2Fu7IoJZE5

Warm Wishes

Foley’s request was quickly answered by fans and those within the industry. Lisa Marie Varon (aka Victoria/Tara) said Jason is “the best” and recalled training in Memphis Championship Wrestling with him. Chris Jericho told Jason to “get well soon dude” while Scotty Riggs encouraged Jason to “heal strong.” At the time of writing, Foley’s past has amassed over 28 thousand likes and over 740 comments. 

Jason Sensation

Jason is best remembered for his time in the World Wrestling Federation during the Attitude Era. The talented impressionist would portray Owen Hart during segments with DX and would deliver a perfect imitation of the Rocket’s voice. Jason would also do impressions of Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart, and other top names in the World Wrestling Federation at the time. You can check out some of Jason’s talented impressions in the video below. 

We here at SE Scoops would like to join others in wishing Jason a full and speedy recovery. 

TNA Xplosion is Back: Popular Show Taped Before Snake Eyes Event

Thomas Lowson
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TNA Wrestling is back, and so is the popular TNA Xplosion series. 

TNA officially relaunched last weekend with their Hard to Kill pay-per-view. The show saw several title changes, including Moose dethroning Alex Shelley to become the new TNA World Champion. In the closing moments of the show, Nic Nemeth made his TNA debut. The ‘Wanted Man’ confronted Moose and laid out the new champion with a Superkick and a Zig-Zag before revealing his TNA Wrestling shirt. 

The Return of TNA Xplosion

Last night, TNA kept its momentum going with the taping of TNA Snake Eyes. Before that taping, TNA filmed its first episode of Xplosion in years. TNA Xplosion launched in 2002 and ended in 2021. The final episode aired on March 6, 2021. The show was replaced by Before The IMPACT.

https://twitter.com/JoelPearl/status/1746683903363195214

TNA Xplosion launched in 2002 and ended in March 2021. After that, the show was replaced with ‘Before the Impact.’ TNA Xplosion provides recaps from TNA’s flagship program ‘Impact!’ as well as exclusive matches and interviews. 

What’s Next for TNA Wrestling?

The matches taped at TNA Snake Eyes 2024 will be aired on iMPACT! which airs every Thursday night on AXS TV. TNA’s next major event will be TNA Wrestling: No Surrender. That show will take place on February 23, from the Alario Center in New Orleans, LA. The next night, TNA will host its Bayou Blast event from the same venue. 

Nic Nemeth wasn’t the only big name to make his TNA debut at Hard to Kill… 

Nic Nemeth Got Chills At TNA Hard to Kill: “This is a Locker Room That Wants to Be the Best”

Thomas Lowson
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Nic Nemeth was amazed by the efforts of the TNA Wrestling roster that he was able to watch in person at last weekend’s Hard to Kill event. 

The ‘Wanted Man’ made his debut in the closing moments of Hard to Kill, confronting new TNA World Heavyweight Champion Moose. Nemeth was released from WWE in September 2023, ending his nearly two-decade tenure under contract. 

Nic Nemeth Wowed By TNA’s Roster

Speaking on Instagram Live about his arrival in TNA Wrestling, Nemeth said he was blown away by how hard the roster worked to make Hard to Kill such a success. 

“Not only did I want to make an impact by making an entrance, showing up, making it seem like ‘Man, this is a special moment’ [but] I was trying to figure out the best possible way to do so. Coming down the entranceway, everyone’s doing that. I’m hiding out, watching the show, I got to really, really enjoy the entire card. So I got here secretly and was hiding out, and I was watching on a tiny phone the show all the way through.

“I was blown away by, everybody works hard, in this business. Everybody works hard. But to actually see it come through to fruition, while you’re watching, and you can just see it in the wrestlers’ eyes. You can see it in their faces and their emotions go ‘This is not just a special night. This is a locker room that wants to be the best. Man, it put chills on my arms. 

“This is a special thing. In a world where everybody is special, this was standing out to me. I was so grateful that I got a chance to see it and I go ‘What is the most exciting moment I could do?’ The main event of this special night with the new champion crowned. And I go ‘This is where I can stand out and say everybody If you don’t know about TNA, hopefully you do, and if you already know, it’s just gotten better right now.’

After his debut, Nemeth didn’t waste time in competing in his first TNA match… 

For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.

Watch: Stone Cold Lives Up To His Name in Hilarious First Cold Plunge Experience

Thomas Lowson
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‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin certainly lived up to his moniker by submerging his body in freezing water as part of his first ‘Cold plunge’ experience. 

On Instagram, Austin shared footage of his first experience of submerging his body into icy-cold water. The WWE Hall of Famer was clearly not a fan of the freezing temperatures and let off the occasional expletive.

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C2D72LZxU1e

In a second video, Austin said he ‘chickened out’ in the first video after ten seconds. The Texas Rattlesnake was told that the experience was “Supposed to get your endorphins going or some sh*t.” Austin added that he was “freezing my f***ing ass off!” 

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C2F_PMavbFh

In the comments, several people shared their own experiences with doing cold plunges. Matt Cardona said that Diamond Dallas Page “tortured” him with a cold plunge. WWE’s Robert Roode called the videos the best thing he’s seen in a long time. ‘Hurricane’ Shane Helms added that Austin’s commentary was top-notch. 

Cold Plunge: The Science & The Risks

Cold plunges are nothing new in the world of sports, as athletes have been using ice baths for decades. Ice baths are often used to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and perceptions of fatigue after heavy exercise. 

Risks include hypothermia, shock, and the possibility of sudden cardiac death. It is with this in mind that those who use cold plunges are advised to not spend more than 15 minutes immersed. People are also advised to use warm clothing on areas of their body that aren’t submerged, such as their torso. 

When not doing a cold plunge, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin can be found behind the wheel of his 3:16-inspired vehicle… 

Spoilers: Nic Nemeth Makes In-Ring TNA Debut, Cuts Emotional Promo

Thomas Lowson
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Nic Nemeth had plenty to say about his past, his future, and TNA Wrestling in his first promo for the company. 

In the main event of TNA Hard to Kill, Moose dethroned Alex Shelley to become the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion. After the match, Nemeth made his debut by confronting the new champion in the ring. 

Nic Nemeth’s First TNA Promo

Last night, TNA taped their Snake Eyes event, which saw Nemeth in action. During the show, Nemeth cut a promo in front of the fans. The former Superstar reflected on his debut the night prior and how he’s feeling right now. 

“Hard to Kill was one hell of a moment, wasn’t it? TNA is back baby. From the opening match to that main event, there was something in the air and damn it, I loved every second.

“I’ve been very fortunate. I’ve done 19 years, and a hell of a lot of events. I was very fortunate to rack up a lot of accomplishments in 19 years but I did it all in one world. I got some emotions running through. You said I still got it, I never lost it!

“I’m intimidated. I’m scared. I’m nervous. I’m excited. And make no mistake about it, I picked my time and place. I showed up in this ring and I lined up face to face with the TNA world champion. I am going to become TNA world champion. I am going to celebrate with each and every one of you!

“I respect the men and the women of this locker room way too much to stroll in here and demand a world title match and get it. This is my day one. This is my first day right here, right now, doing it all over again. It starts here, right now. This time, I earn it all the way to the top.

“I promise I will do it again. I’ve done it in the past and I will never stop. It’s the first time in my life that I do it as Nic Nemeth!”

Nemeth’s Debut Match

Nic Nemeth did more than just talk during the TNA Snake Eyes taping. During the show, Nemeth defeated Zachary Wentz in his first match outside of WWE in decades. One fan who attended said the match was good and added that Wentz controlled the action early on. You can check out some photos from the match and Nemeth’s entrance below. 

It’s not just TNA Wrestling where fans can see the ‘Wanted Man’… 

H/T – No DQ

Another NJPW Bullet Club Member’s Contract Is Already Up

Aaron Varble
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2024 could see numerous pro wrestlers depart from their current companies to find work elsewhere. Now, NJPW is facing the possibility of losing some key members of the Bullet Club.

NJPW Could Lose More Bullet Club Members

NJPW has lost a few members of their roster in recent memory. With Will Ospreay leaving for AEW, and Kazuchika Okada’s future contract status seemingly up in the air, it appears that their roster will be a bit lighter by the end of 2024. 

Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that the contracts of Bullet Club members Gabriel Kidd, Clark Connors, and Alex Coughlin are nearing expiration. Now, we can add Drilla Moloney’s name to that list.

In previous days, Fightful has reported that Gabriel Kidd, Clark Connors and Alex Coughlin all had contracts set to expire in January. They aren’t alone, as we’re told that Drilla Moloney, aka Dan Moloney is among those whose contracts are actually already up. We’ve not heard if he’s been in active negotiations with NJPW.

Drilla Moloney is a former tag team champion with Clark Connors, holding the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Titles until Wrestle Kingdom 18. He could be a valuable asset to another company. 

Moloney also had experience in WWE’s NXT UK brand prior to his NJPW run. He has some acting experience as well. His future remains uncertain, but various opportunities may be open to him very soon.

Steph De Lander Sees WWE Return As Her Destination But She’s In No Rush

Aaron Varble
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WWE released a lot of people over the past year or so, including Persia Pirotta. Although that was the end of the road for her in NXT, she did not let that stop her from carrying on in her pro wrestling journey.

Steph De Lander Wants A WWE Return

Now going as Steph De Lander, she still has aspirations for a WWE return. Although her stint in WWE was brief, De Lander has been establishing herself on the independent circuit as the “Indy Goddess” alongside Matt Cardona following her release in 2022.

In a recent interview on the Insight podcast with Chris Van Vliet, the former WWE NXT Superstar shared her immediate thoughts on her WWE departure. She expressed that while returning to WWE is indeed a long-term goal, she is currently in no hurry to re-enter that system.

“I think that’s definitely the end goal, but it’s not like I’m rushing to get there,” De Lander admitted during the interview. She then said that she had a “mentality switch,” and that’s when things started coming together for her.

When I first got released, the first thing I did was I texted Matt Bloom, I said, How do I get my job back? I got him on the phone, I said, What do I need to do? I spent the next couple of weeks like what’s going on? How do we undo this? Then I thought about and I would dream about it all the time, and it was this unhealthy obsession with all I want to do is get back there,”

“Once I kind of let go of that, and I made peace with what I was doing. I realized if I do the indies begrudgingly, and I do it dragging my feet, and I do it not really enjoying it, always looking to the next thing, I’m not going to have fun, and I’m not going to put out my best work. So I kind of had to pack up that WWE box and put it away and really focus on what I was doing. Then have the faith and know that if I do what I need to do, and I work really hard and I commit fully to this. The end result will be I be getting new interest from WWE and from elsewhere, which I have, because of how hot our act is.”

Matt Cardona & Steph De Lander

Matt Cardona and Steph De Lander have been raking up dates on the indie scene, and they’re a bookable pair. She has also been privileged to work with someone like the former Zack Ryder, who was able to make the most out of the indie wrestling scene after his own WWE release, which could be looked at as a blueprint for how that process should be done in a lot of ways.

While De Lander’s desire to make a WWE return proves that the company is the preferred destination for many, the fact that she is so busy on the indies is proof that there is a lot more out there in the world for pro wrestlers.

Afa The Wild Samoan Offers Hopeful Update After Recent Hospitalization

Aaron Varble
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Afa The Wild Samoan carved out a huge name for himself in the pro wrestling world, and he comes from an incredibly famous family with a rich legacy in the sport. Now, we have a health update on the legend.

Afa The Wild Samoan Health Update

WWE Hall of Famer Afa Anoa’i recently faced a health scare and was hospitalized.
He was admitted to the hospital on Thursday, January 11th, due to Pneumonia. Then, he suffered a pair of heart attacks, one shortly after his admission and another on Friday.

In a Facebook post by Afa’s daughter Vale, it was mentioned that the heart attacks were “small.” While the legendary figure of the Anoa’i family is reportedly doing okay, it was emphasized that he is not completely out of the woods.

Update on Afa the Wild Samoan, affectionately known as Pops: Afa was admitted to the hospital last night with pneumonia, but had a mild heart attack upon arrival. Today, he had a second small heart attack and was sent for a heart catheterization. He is doing ok, his spirits are high. He isn’t out of the woods yet, but will be kept in the hospital for a day or two for observation and monitoring. He thanks everyone for their concern, continued love, and prayers.

Afa Drops Video Message For Fans

On Sunday, January 14, more posts on Afa’s Facebook page revealed positive news. The Hall of Famer was being discharged from the hospital. Videos accompanying the posts showed Afa walking on his own, expressing gratitude to the hospital staff, and looking forward to returning home to watch football.

Who Is Afa The Wild Samoan

Afa was part of the Wild Samoans alongside his brother Sika. As the uncle of Roman Reigns, Afa made a notable appearance at Hell in a Cell 2020 alongside Sika, presenting Reigns with the Tribal Chief lei, or Ula Fala. 

Our best wishes go out to Afa’s entire family, and we hope for his swift and complete recovery.

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