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Katsuyori Shibata is All-Elite: Japanese Star Signs with “Wonderful” AEW

Thomas Lowson
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Fans can expect to see plenty more of Katsuyori Shibata in All Elite Wrestling now that the Japanese wrestler is officially All-Elite. 

On Twitter, AEW President Tony Khan broke the news of Shibata’s signing and described Shibata as one of the greatest fighters and champions ever in wrestling. Khan also shared a letter from Shibata himself in which the new signing spoke about joining the “wonderful” AEW. 

Dear Tony Khan,

Today, I have signed the contract with AEW under a permission from New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

In the past year, I worked for AEW/ROH and I learned how wonderful the AEW is.

This is the best environment where wrestlers can focus only on fighting in the ring.

And the love for professional wrestling is overflowing from Tony and all the people who work for him.

I want to make AEW’s ring the last end point of The Wrestler’s career. I dedicate my wrestler life to Tony Khan, and AEW. 

Thank you, 

Katsuyori Shibata. 

Katsuyori Shibata in AEW

Shibata first appeared for AEW at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door in June 2022, saving Orange Cassidy from a beatdown by the United Empire. Shibata would save Cassidy again later that year. In November, Shibata challenged Cassidy for the AEW All-Atlantic Championship but was unsuccessful. 

In March of this year, Shibata made his ROH debut and defeated Wheeler Yuta at Supercard of Honor to win the ROH Pure Championship. Shibata retained the title on the June 2, 2023, edition of Rampage against Lee Moriarty. He dropped the title back to Yuta last month on AEW Rampage. 

 

Dave Bautista Links Up With Mr. Beast To Save 100 Dogs

Aaron Varble
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Batista has certainly expanded his range of contacts since leaving WWE. He is a bona fide Hollywood heavy-hitter at this point, keeping friendships with high profile celebrities. He recently flexed that influential muscle by appearing alongside Mr. Beast to help out 100 dogs.

Batista’s Big Charitable Act

Dave Bautista just wrapped up a long stint as Drax the Destroyer in the Guardians of the Galaxy series. That was quite a role for him, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else filling those shoes ever again. Despite his rising star in Hollywood, The Animal is still giving back.

Batista recently updated fans to let them know about a charitable endeavor he was just a part of. The should-be WWE Hall of Famer recently linked up with Mr. Beast, and together they helped rescue 100 dogs.

Who Is Mr Beast?

Mr. Beast is one of the most popular content creators on YouTube. He gained widespread attention for his philanthropic endeavors, creating videos where he gives away large sums of money to individuals or undertakes massive challenges. 

Mr. Beast is known for his creative and sometimes unconventional approaches to charity, aiming to make a positive impact through his online presence. His recent video about rescuing 100 dogs may be found below.

Chris Jericho Will Find New Partner For AEW Worlds End In Kenny Omega’s Absence

Aaron Varble
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Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega were all set to challenge Big Bill and Ricky Starks for the AEW World Tag Team Titles at Worlds End on December 30th, then Kenny Omega’s health took a turn for the worse. Despite losing his Golden Jets partner, Chris Jericho will continue without The Cleaner. 

AEW Tag Team Title Match At Worlds End

Chris Jericho is determined to win the AEW Tag Team Titles at AEW Worlds End, even in the absence of Kenny Omega due to diverticulitis. He made that very clear on AEW Collision this week.

During the December 23rd episode of AEW Collision, Ricky Starks and Big Bill announced their intention to take the night off and celebrate. They suggested that the scheduled tag team match at Worlds End was canceled since Kenny Omega is not able to compete.

However, Chris Jericho stepped in, and he revealed something very important. He still possesses a contract entitling him to an AEW Tag Team Title match. Le Champion is not fazed by Kenny Omega’s absence, because the show must go on. 

Chris Jericho then declared his intention to find a partner and challenge Ricky Starks and Big Bill for the titles at AEW Worlds End. He didn’t reveal who his partner will be at the pay-per-view. 

Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega secured their opportunity for the AEW Tag Team Titles by defeating The Young Bucks at AEW Full Gear. The Young Bucks used that loss to turn heel as well.

AEW Worlds End 2023 Card:

MJF vs Samoa Joe – AEW World Title

Big Bill & Ricky Starks vs TBD & Chris Jericho – AEW World Tag Team Titles

Christian Cage vs. Adam Copeland – AEW TNT Title

Continental Classic Final

Julia Hart vs Abadon – TBS Title

Hook vs Wheeler Yuta – FTW Title

Matt Jackson’s Wife, Dana Massie, Leaving Position In AEW

Aaron Varble
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AEW is gearing up for 2024, along with the rest of us. Everything changes, but it seems that Tony Khan’s company is seeing a few big departures to close out the year.

AEW’s Recent Departures

Rafael Morffi, AEW’s Vice President of Live Events/Touring, is believed to be wrapping things up with the company. Reports broke today that he will be leaving after Worlds End for a job with the Barclays Center. Now, we have another departure to report. 

Sean Ross Sapp took to X, where he broke some more AEW news. Matt Jackson’s wife, Dana Massie, who has been with the company since they opened their doors, will be leaving her position over the company’s advertising division. 

Fightful Select and @TheRajGiri have learned that as things stand, Chief Marketing & Merchandising Officer Dana Massie is set to finish up with AEW.

She’s been there since the start of AEW. She’s the wife of Matt Jackson of the Young Bucks.

Breaking Down These AEW Departures

This is a bit of a surprise, because Dana Massie had a big hand in many AEW promotional and merchandise efforts. She was given that spot in AEW after spearheading The Young Bucks’ merchandise empire, one that saw them arrive in Hot Topic as indie stars. 

QT Marshall also left the company, which will be official in 2024, but he is no longer attending AEW events. Marshall, on top of being an in-ring competitor, was AEW President Tony Khan’s right-hand man for a time.

AEW is making some changes internally, with Kevin Sullivan’s sudden release, and now QT Marshall, Dana Massie and Rafael Morffi leaving the company. There may be a lot more to unpack when the dust settles on this story.

WWE Abandons Idea To Change Big Aspect Of Randy Orton’s Presentation

Aaron Varble
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Randy Orton returned to WWE at Survivor Series, bringing back his old theme song. WWE fans get very attached to entrance music, especially songs with the kind of longevity that Orton’s music possesses. Despite that fact, WWE still considered a change. 

WWE Considered Big Change For Randy Orton

Although WWE did consider a change in Randy Orton’s music, they are not going that direction. This will probably make a lot of fans who hate change very happy.

Fightful Select reports that a new theme song for Randy Orton was tested, but the plans for changes in his entrance were subsequently abandoned. At this point, it doesn’t appear that Randy Orton will get new entrance music. 

Fightful’s Corey Brennan has learned that with the Randy Orton theme song, they did one play through live in the arena and decided to scrap it.

Rand Orton’s Music Is Safe

A revamped version of Randy Orton’s “Voices” song was dropped in June, during the midst of his WWE hiatus. That was apparently not the version of the song that WWE was considering.

The original plan was for Randy Orton to debut with his old music, out of familiarity. Then they would transition into a new song. It appears that transition has been nixed.

Randy Orton inked an exclusive contract with the SmackDown brand upon his WWE return. He will continue with the blue brand from this point on, where he has made it very clear that he wants a shot at Roman Reigns’ Undisputed Universal Title.

Interesting Name Spotted Backstage At 12/23 AEW Collision

Aaron Varble
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AEW is gearing up for a loaded episode of Collision this week. Their Holiday Bash in San Antonio also brought a familiar face to the show, who is under contract with another company.

Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net noted that Chase Owens is backstage at AEW Collision in San Antonio. He is not expected to appear on the show for AEW or ROH, but he is backstage.

Chase Owens currently lives in San Antonio, and is said to be visiting friends who work for AEW. Owens is not expected to participate on screen in any capacity on tonight’s Collision, or the ROH tapings. 

Chase Owens is home for the holidays right now, but he won’t stay in Texas for long. The Crown Jewel of the Bullet Club is set to appear at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18 and New Year’s Dash.

It’s good to know Chase Owens was able to get backstage and visit. Tonight’s episode of AEW Collision will be special in San Antonio, because it will see the return of Thunder Rosa to in-ring action, and her home city is bound to give her a rousing ovation. 

You can check out the card for the December 23rd episode of AEW Collision below. Even if Chase Owens doesn’t show up during the broadcast, it will still be a packed two-hour broadcast.

  • AEW Trios Champions The Acclaimed vs. Top Flight & Action Andretti
  • Thunder Rosa & Abadon vs. Julia Hart & Skye Blue
  • We’ll hear from Christian Cage
  • Keith Lee vs. Brian Cage
  • AEW Continental Classic Blue League: Claudio Castagnoli vs. Bryan Danielson
  • AEW Continental Classic Blue League: Brody King vs. Daniel Garcia
  • AEW Continental Classic Blue League: Andrade El Idolo vs. Eddie Kingston

Cody Rhodes Vs. Roman Reigns is WWE’s 2023 Match of the Year

Thomas Lowson
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Cody Rhodes may have failed to finish the story at WrestleMania 39 earlier this year, but he and Roman Reigns delivered WWE’s best match of the year. 

Earlier this month, WWE kicked off a fan-voted tournament to see what was the best match of the year. The tournament featured the following matches: 

  • SummerSlam: Cody Rhodes vs Brock Lesnar
  • WrestleMania 39: Rey Mysterio vs Dominik Mysterio
  • Payback: Trish Stratus vs Becky Lynch
  • WrestleMania 39: Fatal Four-Way Men’s Tag Team Match
  • Monday Night RAW: Chad Gable vs Gunther
  • WrestleMania 39: Rhea Ripley vs Charlotte Flair
  • Money In The Bank: The Usos vs Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns
  • WrestleMania 39: Drew McIntyre vs Gunther vs Sheamus
  • Backlash: Bad Bunny vs Damian Priest
  • NXT Deadline: Men’s Iron Survivor Match
  • WrestleMania 39: Roman Reigns vs Cody Rhodes
  • Crown Jewel: Seth Rollins vs Drew McIntyre
  • Backlash: IYO Sky vs Bianca Belair
  • Elimination Chamber: Sami Zayn vs Roman Reigns
  • WrestleMania 39: The Usos vs Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens
  • NXT No Mercy: Carmelo Hayes vs Ilja Dragunov

In the end, the finals saw two matches featuring WWE’s American Nightmare. The finals were between Rhodes’ WrestleMania 39 match with Reigns and his SummerSlam 2023 showdown with Brock Lesnar. 

What’s Next?

Cody Rhodes is currently feuding with Shinsuke Nakamura, who has been able to mist Rhodes multiple times. Cody will compete in next month’s Men’s Royal Rumble match. If he wins, Cody will become the fourth man to win back-to-back Royal Rumble matches. Win or lose, many expect Rhodes will challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. WWE’s annual Showcase of the Immortals will take place in April from Philadelphia, PA.

Cody Rhodes is going to be staying with WWE for many years to come. Click here to find out more. 

Samantha Irvin Told To Nix Chelsea Green’s Special Introduction By WWE Higher-Up

Aaron Varble
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WWE fans love the little things that make watching the show special. Samantha Irvin has received a considerable amount of attention in recent memory, thanks to how much she puts into each Superstar introduction. It appears that the fan-favorite introduction for Chelsea Green is now a thing of the past.

Samantha Irvin’s Special Ring Announcement Nixed

Fans were quick to notice that Samantha Irvin introduced Chelsea Green’s name on RAW without giving it her usual inflection. It appears that this was not her call to switch things up at all.

Sean Ross Sapp noted on Fightful Select that a WWE higher-up made the call to nix Chelsea Green’s unique ring introduction. At this time, some people are fighting for the introduction to return, but it hasn’t happened yet.

We followed up on Samantha Irvin noting that it wasn’t her call to scrap the special Chelsea Green entrance. We’re told that word backstage was that the direction came directly from a WWE higher up and many were pushing for it to return.

Samantha Irvin Speaks On Special Chelsea Green Introduction

During an appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Samantha Irvin previously commented on her special introduction for Chelsea Green. She said, “It’s just her. She came back, and her attitude and everything, it’s just so sassy, I love it.”

WWE fans will likely keep an ear out during Chelsea Green’s next ring announcement. Samantha Irvin also gives her own flair to other Superstars like Ludwig Kaiser and GUNTHER, so we have to wonder if that unnamed WWE higher-up will make a call to nix those introductions as well.

Hornswoggle Thought He Was Being Pranked When WWE Called with An Offer

Thomas Lowson
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Dylan ‘Hornswoggle’ Postl was very suspicious when WWE called him with an offer, especially considering how bad his audition went.

Postl debuted on WWE’s main roster in 2006 as a ‘Leprechaun’ that would often aid Fit Finlay. The following year, Hornswoggle would win the Cruiserweight Championship and was the final champion before the title was reintroduced in 2016.

Hornswoggle Makes it to WWE

Postl would become a household name thanks to his tenure with WWE, but his journey to being a Superstar wasn’t easy. During the Oh You Didn’t Know podcast, Postl recalled his woeful audition.

“WWE I always say they were looking for a person like me but now I can just say, WWE was looking for a midget. They were trying out midgets to be Finlay’s Leprechaun. It just wasn’t happening. Then Ken [Anderson] said to Fit, he goes, ‘Hey I got the guy. He’s good hearted, he’s a good kid, he can take bumps,’ All of this. They try me out in Green Bay actually.

“There was a Smackdown taping in Green Bay. They pulled me in to the promo room with Fit, asked me to do a Irish accent, I failed miserably. So much so that I remember, I don’t know if Fit even remembers. We walked out, I go, ‘oh man how did that go,’ He goes ‘Huh, not very well.'”

With his audition being a dud, Postl wasn’t expecting to hear anything from WWE. That is why he was in no hurry to answer the call that would ultimately change his life.

“I didn’t expect to hear back. Two weeks later a blocked number came up on my phone three or four times in the morning, about 8- 9 in the morning and I kept sending it to the voicemail because I was like ‘I’m not paying this credit card company that wants my money, not happening.’ Then finally, there’s a voicemail, [It says] ‘Dylan this is Tommy Dreamer. We want to give you a lot of money and hire you. We want to give you a contract, please call me back.’ 

“And I was like ‘Someone’s f***ing with me.’ A, Because they’ll never hire me and B, Because no one talks in such a monotone voice for a whole voicemail, a whole minute and a half voicemail. No one talks in, ‘Dylan call me back please, this is Tommy Dreamer.’ No one also would introduce himself in an office position as ECW’s Tommy Dreamer. None of this shit matched up, I was like ‘Someone is f***ing with me.’ 

“So finally I give him a call and he goes, ‘Oh you decided to call me back, that’s good. We’re gonna pull you to TV, you’re going to start as Finlay’s Leprechaun, I guess.’ [Then] it was literally off to the races, three weeks later, I’m travelling to the Philippines.”

Postl would remain with WWE until 2016. He would make a one-off return in 2018 for that year’s Greatest Royal Rumble match. He would also appear during the 2019 Royal Rumble pay-per-view. 

Which former WWE Superstar helped Postl after his release from the company in 2016? Click here to find out. 

Cody Rhodes recently signed a new contract with WWE

Aaron Varble
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Cody Rhodes is one of WWE’s biggest names at this point, and his Kingdom entrance music makes fans yell “WOAH!” all around the world. Now, we have good news for those fans who love seeing the American Nightmare in a WWE ring.

Cody Rhodes Contract Update

It was previously reported that WWE was aiming to secure Cody Rhodes with a new contract. That contract was said to be a big-money deal as well.

According to Dave Meltzer on F4WOnline, Cody Rhodes signed a new deal with WWE around October, coinciding with the timing of Charlotte Flair’s contract extension. For some reason, this fact was not previously reported until now.

While the specific details of the new contract, such as its length and financial terms, remain unknown, Dave Meltzer drew parallels to Charlotte Flair’s situation. The Queen’s contract extension was revealed months after the fact, and it was reportedly for huge money.

Meanwhile, Fightful has been reporting that WWE officials are eager to lock Cody in to a new longterm deal. In response to Dave Meltzer claiming Cody re-signed months ago, Sean Ross Sapp’s sources claim that WWE did in fact send Cody a new contract back in October, but he’s yet to put pen to paper.

Since his return to WWE, Cody Rhodes has already won a Royal Rumble match, which secured him a main event match spot against Roman Reigns for the Undisputed Universal Title at WrestleMania 39. Rhodes did not win that match, but he is still on a mission to finish his story.

Cody Rhodes’ WWE Return

In 2019, Cody Rhodes played a significant role in establishing AEW, as he contributed greatly to the company’s foundation. However, in February 2022, the AEW EVP Cody Rhodes and his wife, Brandi Rhodes, decided not to renew their contracts with the company.

Following their departure from AEW, Cody Rhodes signed a deal with WWE. That set him up for a surprise return, that so many saw coming, at WrestleMania 38. He was Seth Rollins’ unannounced opponent for that show, and he won his return match, ending a six-year absence from WWE.

UPDATE: Contradictory Report On Cody Rhodes’ WWE Contract

Sean Ross Sapp reported an update on Fightful Select. It was noted that, after speaking to a source with direct ties to Cody Rhodes that, “Their claim is that the approach and initial offer from WWE was made in October, but no deal was signed at that point. One is expected to be signed, and an agreement is in place, we’re told.”

It was further noted that,“several wrestlers that were also under the impression Rhodes had re-signed, or was going to imminently.“

WWE Sending NXT Star To Japan To Challenge For AJPW Triple Crown Championship

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE has changed a lot under the new Endeavor management. The latest proof of it is the apparent agreement between the US based promotion and All Japan Pro Wrestling, which will see a current NXT talent traveling to Japan for a huge match in 2024.

The Japanese promotion has been teasing a new challenger for the AJPW Triple Crown Championship in recent times. The challenger dubbed as ‘Assassin’ has been promoted to face the winner of the upcoming match between Katsuhiko Nakajima and Kento Miyahara on January 3rd.

The company posted a video on social media this Saturday morning, confirming that the mysterious challenger is an outsider. 

In the video as seen below, AJPW President Tsuyoki Fukuda is talking to an unidentified caller. During the conversation, the AJPW official can be heard thanking his conversation partner at NXT for sending a ‘strong superstar’:

[Via Google translate] “The assassin that President Fukuda is trying to make into a Triple Crown Champion for 1.3 is an NXT player! ? Is it true, President Fukuda? Are you okay, President Fukuda? ! Agony??

President Fukuda’s office?? Episode 1 “Hello WWE!?”

This is not the first time WWE under the new leadership has extended a hand of friendship toward a Japanese promotion. Earlier this year, we saw Shinsuke Nakamura returning to Japan to face The Great Muta in one of his final matches at NOAH The New Year 2023.

The name of the NXT star who will be traveling to Japan has not yet been revealed. If the announcement video is any indication, the match will be a big focus of AJPW programming heading into 2024.

Tammy Lynn Sytch (Sunny) Files Appeal For 17-Year Prison Sentence

Aaron Varble
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Tammy Lynn Sytch was sentenced to 17 years in prison. Eight counts, including DUI manslaughter and driving while license suspended with death, resulted in the WWE Hall of Famer’s life changing forever. She was responsible for an accident that took the life of a 75-year-old man named Julian Lasseter. Now, the former Sunny is trying to appeal that sentence. 

We previously reported that Tammy Lynn Sytch was transferred to a prison, where she will begin her sentence. Her legal representative is already filing an appeal on her behalf.

PW Insider noted that Tammy Lynn Sytch’s public defender has filed an appeal for her sentence. This appeal was entered on December 20th.

Notice is hereby given that Tamara Lynn Sytch, Defendant-Appellant appeals to the District Court of Appeal, Fifth District of Florida, the Order of this Court rendered on November 27, 2023.

The nature of the Order is a final order adjudicating defendant guilty of the following:DUI Manslaughter (Count One), Driving While License Suspended with Death (Count Two), DUI with Damage to Person (Count Three), DUI with Damage to Person (Count Four), DUI with Damage to Person (Count Five), DUI with Damage to Person (Count Six), DUI with Damage to Property (Count Seven) and DUI with Damage to Property (Count Eight) and sentencing her to:

1. Count One: 7 years Department of Corrections followed by 8 years probation with fines, court costs and standard conditions including permanent driver’s license suspension, alcohol safety education course, victim awareness program. Count One is to be served consecutive to Count Two.

2. Count Two: 10.6625 Years Department of Corrections with credit time served for 566 days.

3. Counts Three-Eight: 364 days jail with credit for 364 days.

Tammy Lynn Sytch’s DUI Manslaughter Sentencing

Tammy Lynn Sytch has been incarcerated since May 2022. Following her sentencing on November 28th, where she received a 17-year term along with 8 years of probation, she was promptly transferred from Volusia County Corrections to a prison facility in Ocala, Florida. This move occurred on the same day her appeal was filed.

During her sentencing, Tammy Lynn Sytch’s attorneys indicated their intention to file an appeal seeking a reduction in her sentence. Therefore, this appeal was expected.

Tammy Lynn Sytch’s latest prison mugshot was also revealed after she was moved to her new location. You can check that out below.

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WWE Tryout Gave Mariah May Something Better Than A Contract

Rayan Saayed
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During her WWE tryout in 2019 at a WWE Performance Center in Enfield, England, AEW wrestler Mariah May received valuable advice from a former WWE trainer.

Appearing on the Talk Is Jericho podcast (via Wrestling Inc.), May revealed that she had three matches and was called for a tryout, initially assuming it was for WWE but realizing it was for NXT UK. “Whereas WWE, I would have signed to that early on because there’s a PC and you’re going to train and stuff,” May said.

During the tryout, Sarah Stock advised her to travel more for experience. Despite WWE’s prior knowledge of her, NXT UK didn’t have a full-time training center, prompting them to recommend gaining more experience through travel due to less frequent training sessions.

“They wanted me to get more experience because with NXT UK, they didn’t have a full-time PC,” she explained. “It was like once every two months or something.”

Following the tryout, Mariah May went on a journey through the independent circuit in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She made appearances in promotions like Revolution Pro Wrestling, Ultimate Pro Wrestling, Combat Zone Wrestling, and several others.

However, her big breakthrough came when she debuted in Japan at World Wonder Ring Stardom in 2022. In this stint, she appeared alongside renowned figures like Mina Shirakawa and Unagi Sayaka. She also played a pivotal role in establishing the Club Venus stable, joining forces with Shirakawa and Xia Brookside. During her tenure, she won the Goddess of Stardom titles alongside Shirakawa. Her association with Stardom ended in September 2023.

Following her Stardom stint, May transitioned to the United States and joined AEW. Her signing was officially revealed on the November 8, 2023 edition of AEW Dynamite. In a segment backstage with RJ City, she was introduced as a passionate fan of Toni Storm, expressing her eagerness to meet her idol. She cited this as her primary motivation for joining AEW.

RELATED: Mariah May, Toni Storm Storyline Inspired By ‘All About Eve’?

Update on Charlotte Flair’s Surgery and Potential Return Timetable

Rayan Saayed
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Charlotte Flair sustained a major injury during her singles match against Damage CTRL’s Asuka on the Tribute to the Troops edition of SmackDown on December 8. Now we’ve gotten an update on the timetable for her return.

According to a report from PWInsider, Charlotte Flair is scheduled to undergo knee surgery in early January. WWE has projected a nine-month recovery period for Flair, suggesting that her return to the ring may not be until at least October next year.

The injury occurred when Flair tried to execute her signature moonsault outside the ring toward Asuka. The match ended abruptly following interference by Bayley, resulting in Flair’s defeat. Unfortunately, Flair sustained multiple knee injuries during the spot, including tears to her ACL, MCL, and meniscus.

This unfortunate development means that Charlotte Flair will miss WrestleMania 40 scheduled for April 6-7, 2024, at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

Additionally, her absence may extend to events such as Summerslam, Backlash France, and Bash In Berlin. The given timetable means that Flair may be able to make a comeback around the time of Fastlane and Crown Jewel.

Charlotte Flair recently agreed to a contract extension with WWE, reportedly securing her stay with the company for several years. While specific details about the duration and terms of the deal remain a secret, reports suggest a substantial increase in compensation. 

This marks Flair’s new deal one of the most lucrative contracts for a female wrestler in WWE history. As part of the agreement, Flair is set to receive a travel bus, a privilege previously granted to big names like Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes within the company.

RELATED: Charlotte Flair On Crutches at CMLL Event Supporting Andrade El Idolo

SPOILER: When Authors Of Pain Will Return To WWE Television

Aaron Varble
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WWE dropped a bombshell on fans during the pre-taped December 22nd episode of SmackDown. Karrion Kross teased the return of AOP during his promo, and fans won’t have to wait much longer to see the former Tag Team Champions return.

SPOILER On AOP’s WWE Return

According to PW Insider, AOP will make their return to WWE television during the January 5th episode of SmackDown. That New Year’s Revolution will see the start of their regular return to the company.

The trio will officially return to WWE at the 1/5/24 Smackdown episode and will be back regularly at that point, PWInsider.com is told by WWE sources.

Akam, Rezar, and Paul Ellering were all at the WWE Performance Center in September. They were also around for an NXT taping, but Triple H had other plans for them.

WWE’s Creative Plan For AOP’s Return

Karrion Kross has been mostly absent from WWE since his return to the company. He had his segments pushed back in the past, but he has recently started getting promo time on the blue brand.

During the December 22nd, 2023 episode of WWE SmackDown, Karrion Kross cut another promo, where he said that this next chapter of his story needs “authors.” Then they flashed the silhouettes of three men.

AOP and Paul Ellering will be joining Karrion Kross and Scarlett. Kross also said “vision” in a way that makes us wonder if that will be a part of their new possible faction’s name.

Exclusive Insight into AOP’s WWE Return

I was told earlier this year that Akam and Rezar were re-signed in late 2022. They were just waiting for the right moment to make their return. Sean Ross Sapp and Mike Johnson also reported the same over the year.

Over the last year, I’ve asked multiple times about AOP’s status and was told the same thing, that they are waiting with no immediate word on their return. Now, it appears that they will debut in 2024, or at least that is the new current plan.

Paul Ellering will return alongside AOP as well. Vince McMahon made the call to nix him as their manager and put Drake Maverick in his place. Triple H put that original trio together in the first place years ago in NXT, so he knows how well it works.

Akam and Rezar will apparently be aligned with Karrion Kross in some way, and that will be a good ally for them. It will be interesting to see how they mix things up in the tag team division, because AOP could have championship gold in their future.

WWE Fan Favorite Expected Back Early January

Rayan Saayed
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Xavier Woods’ recent absence from WWE programming has been attributed to the New Day star being “banged up” and needing time off the road to recuperate and heal. It appears though that his hiatus won’t be a long one.

Mike Johnson of PWInsider is reporting that WWE sources anticipate Xavier Woods to be back soon. The company expects the former champion to be back on road within the first two weeks of January.

However, they have been advised that this is a “tentative” plan, which means that it is subject to change.

The former NXT star was also recently in Birmingham, Alabama, a common destination for celebrities needing surgery. This location often includes visits to Dr. James Andrews’ clinic, renowned for its expertise in orthopedic and sports medicine. Wrestlers frequently seek treatment there for a range of injuries issues.

This visit led to some speculation regarding the extent of Woods’ injury; however, the new report suggests that he’s not dealing with any serious issues. 

Xavier Woods was last seen participating in a Tag Team Turmoil match which aired on the November 27 episode of WWE RAW. Initially, Woods was listed in the lineup for the WWE Holiday Tour live events. He has since been pulled from the loop.

During the December 18 episode of Raw, Woods’ partner Kofi Kingston appeared dressed as Santa Claus for a festive segment. He was ambushed by Imperium’s Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci. Fortunately, Jey Uso came to his aid, leading to a match between Uso and Kaiser, where Uso emerged victorious.

Dean Malenko update following recent brain surgery for Parkinson’s

Rayan Saayed
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It was reported earlier that Dean Malenko underwent brain surgery for an issue related to Parkinson’s disease.

During his podcast, Grilling JR, Jim Ross revealed this past week that Malenko underwent the surgery and was present at AEW TV tapings.

“I saw Dean Malenko. Malenko’s had some health issues. I saw him there. And he had brain surgery and it stops his shakes form the Parkinson’s and it has, he’s had the surgery. He’s such a sweetheart of a guy,” Ross said.

There was uncertainty regarding the timeline of Malenko’s return after the surgery, leading to various assumptions. However, Mike Johnson of PWInsider clarified that Malenko had undergone surgery towards the end of September.

Given that the surgery took place several months ago, it is reasonable to assume that Malenko has likely recovered by now. He resumed working for AEW at the start of November and wasn’t in the process of recuperating from the surgery since it had taken place months earlier.

Dean Malenko, a wrestling veteran with an extensive career, was highlighted by Ross for his contributions to AEW. Malenko holds a significant behind-the-scenes role wherein he coaches and mentors young performers on the AEW roster, ensuring they deliver strong performances inside the ring.

Ross said that Malenko is an unsung hero, describing him as a valuable asset due to his guidance and coaching within the company. According to Ross, Malenko encourages talents to share their ideas and then assists and coaches them. He praised Malenko’s adeptness in teaching and coaching wrestlers within AEW.

We extend our best wishes to Dean Malenko, hoping for his continued recovery in his battle with Parkinson’s disease.

RELATED:  Dean Malenko On Why He Ended His 18 Year Long Stint With WWE

Former Tag Team Champions Set For Return and Form New Faction on SmackDown

Bishal Roy
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The Authors of Pain (Akam & Rezar) with Paul Ellering are set to make their return and join forces with Karrion Kross.

There has been a buzz regarding Authors of Pain returning to WWE soon. As it seems, Akam and Rezar are indeed returning with Paul Ellering by their side. 

The Authors of Pain will form new faction with  Karrion Kross

On this week’s Friday Night SmackDown, WWE dropped a vignette featuring Karrion Kross and Scarlett. They talked about the list of superstars who competed against him and noted that they changed soon after. He took credit for the changes and dropped hints that the ‘authors’ were coming.

“Even the greatest proclamation is soon to be forgotten without a scribe … without Authors.”

Authors of Pain had re-signed with WWE last year before Vince McMahon returned as Chairman earlier this year. The duo were part of the WWE travel plans since May this year. However, there were no creative plans for them. 

If reports are to be believed Authors of Pain will officially return to television at SmackDown: New Year’s Revolution in two weeks on the January 5, 2024. 

Authors of Pain are two-time tag team champions in WWE. Ahead of their main roster move, they had captured the NXT Tag Team Championship and went on to become the RAW Tag Team Champions.

The two powerhouses Akam and Rezar were also aligned with the former WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins on Raw. This time around, it seem Karrion Kross will be leading them and they could be the next big thing on the blue brand.

“Bray Was Just Special” – AJ Francis Explains How The Wyatt Family Got Him Back Into Wrestling

Anutosh Bajpai
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While Bray Wyatt’s wrestling career was tragically cut short due to his untimely passing, his memory will remain forever. His legacy will forever be cherished by the people impacted by his work. This includes people such as former WWE star AJ ‘Top Dolla’ Francis, who credits the late star for getting him back into wrestling.

The recently released WWE star spoke about Wyatt in an interview with MuscleManMalcolm. He mentioned how he stopped watching wrestling in high school because he didn’t have time. AJ got back into it with the 2011 Royal Rumble event:

“It was really crazy because Bray was one of the reasons that I got really heavy back into wrestling. I watched wrestling from literally before I was one year old until I was like 15. Then not because I didn’t want to watch wrestling. I was just in high school and was playing football and basketball and doing all these different things. I was in the school plays. I didn’t have time to watch wrestling.

So I didn’t watch wrestling for like five years. I didn’t watch wrestling til like 2011. I remember the first event I watched after that five six year hiatus was Royal Rumble, the one where Alberto Del Rio won. The 40 men Rumble with Santino coming back.

That’s why I knew I loved wrestling because I didn’t know who Alberto Del Rio was, I hadn’t watched the product. I didn’t know who Santino was. So I was like ‘Who are these guys?’ But it was so entertaining. That show led to another show there was, led to another and another.”

Bray Was So Good At What He Did: AJ Francis 

aj francis wyatt family 1

Per Top Dolla, he had been watching the sport casually and it was The Wyatt Family act that led to him becoming a regular fan again. Speaking about the qualities of Bray that appealed to him, Francis explained that Bray Wyatt wasn’t going over the top to grab your attention:

“Then when I really started getting back heavy into it, is right when The Wyatt Family debuted. I don’t know man Bray was just special. Bray would quote some of [the] deepest thinkers all the time, including civil rights activists.

He was different. He was the kind of guy that…He could talk very low, almost like a Jake The Snake. In a world full of people that would be so over the top to get your attention. He didn’t have to do that because he was so good at what he did. That made me a fan of his.”

AJ Francis was released from his WWE contract in September this year and he officially became a free agent earlier this week. The former WWE star has wasted no time making his move and he has already started a feud with Joey Janela by attacking him at a GCW event.

You can check out Top Dolla’s full interview below:

More originals from SEScoops:

If you use any quotes from the article please credit MuscleManMalcolm with an H/t to SEScoops for transcription

Charlotte Flair On Crutches at CMLL Event Supporting Andrade El Idolo

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Superstar Charlotte Flair wasn’t going to let her recent injury stop her from supporting her husband Andrade El Idolo at a CMLL event. 

During the latter part of her December 9 match with Asuka, Flair was hurt and was seen being tended to by WWE’s medical crew after the match. The injury happened when Flair came off the top rope at an awkward angle and her legs bounced off the ropes. Despite this, Flair was able to finish the match that saw Asuka get the victory. 

Charlotte Flair at CMLL

While Flair won’t be competing for the foreseeable future, she recently made the trip to CMLL. Flair was there to support Andrade, who teamed with Espanto Jr. and Brillante Jr. to take on Volador Jr., Magnus, and Magia Blanca. On Twitter, CMLL brought awareness to Flair being at the show. 

Flair’s arrival was also captured on camera. The former Raw, SmackDown, and NXT Women’s Champion was seen arriving on crutches to her seats to a response from the fans in attendance. 

What’s Next for Charlotte Flair? 

While Flair was injured earlier this month, she won’t be having surgery until next month. Flair is expected to miss nine months of action. This would put Flair’s return window at some time in October 2024. This is a massive setback for Flair, who will miss next month’s Royal Rumble event, WrestleMania 40, and SummerSlam 2024. It had also been rumored that Flair was going to be Jade Cargill’s first opponent in WWE and if so, those plans will have to be changed.

Ex-WWE Star Jessica McKay Welcomes Her First Child

Bishal Roy
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Jessica McKay (formerly Billie Kay in WWE) has become a mother after welcoming her first child on Wednesday. 

Previously, McKay had shared a video that revealed that she was expecting a baby. The former WWE Superstar had also shared a sonogram of her child.

The former IIconics member recently took to her Instagram account and announced that baby Cooper was born on December 20. 

“Cooper ??12/20/2023. So in love with our little Coop,” she wrote. 

Congratulatory messages from fellow wrestlers poured in

Several wrestlers sent messages to Jessica McKay in the comments section. Her tag-IIconics team partner Cassie Lee/Peyton Royce, who welcomed the birth of her first child in January, wrote: “I love him ??????” 

“Yay congratulations!!!!” Kayla Braxton wrote.

“Ahhhhhh ?? congratulations!!!” Tenille Dashwood wrote. 

“Awww congrats mama! Welcome to the club. It’s the best ever,” wrote Madison Rayne.

“Jeeeeeesssssss! Massive congrats to you!!!! So elated for you and your lovely husband,” wrote Big E.

Angelina Love, Natalya, Deonna Purrazzo, Tay Melo, Alexa Bliss, Matt Camp, Renee Paquette and others also sent best wishes for the new mother. 

Jessica McKay in pro wrestling

Jessica McKay has competed in her native Australia for years before she signed with WWE in 2015. She was aligned with Cassie Lee (Peyton Royce) the next year. In 2019, the pair won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships. However, they were forced to split in August 2020. 

IIconics were released in 2021 but the pair reunited in IMPACT Wrestling and became the first tag team to hold the WWE Women’s Tag Titles and IMPACT Knockouts Tag Titles, going by the name IInspiration. 

The duo decided to step away from the ring in April last year and McKay was cast in the film The Charisma Killers a few days later. Recently, the duo’s ‘Off Her Chops’ podcast was added to Premier+ and the Premier Podcast Network,

Want to See CM Punk Live? WWE Shares Best in the World’s Next Appearances

Thomas Lowson
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WWE has made sure that fans know when exactly they can expect to see CM Punk now that he is a Superstar once again. 

It’s been less than a month since Punk’s shocking return to WWE in the closing moments of Survivor Series: WarGames. Since then, the former World Champion has been one of WWE’s most featured performers and appeared on Raw, SmackDown, and NXT before exclusively signing with the red brand. 

CM Punk’s Upcoming Appearances 

Fans won’t have to wait long until CM Punk makes his long-awaited return to the ring. In his first WWE match since 2014, Punk will face Dominik Mysterio at the December 26 Live Event in Madison Square Garden. Punk will also face Mysterio at the December 30th event in Inglewood, California. 

On social media, Punk shared a timeline of his next appearances for WWE. After these live events, CM Punk will be on the January 8, episode of Monday Night Raw from Portland, Oregon. Punk’s next appearance will be on January 22, show from New Orleans, Louisiana. This show will be the go-home Raw before the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, where Punk will compete in the Men’s Royal Rumble match. 

What’s Next for CM Punk? 

The former AEW World Champion is being considered a favorite to win next month’s Men’s Royal Rumble match. If so, Punk is expected to challenge reigning WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins. The pair have been at odds ever since Punk’s return and Rollins recently explained why he’s taken issue with Punk’s return. 

Hiroshi Tanahashi is New Japan Pro Wrestling’s New President & Representative Director

Bishal Roy
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Japanese wrestling great Hiroshi Tanahashi has been named the new President and Representative Director of New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).

Takami Ohbari has been President and Representative Director of NJPW since 2020 and will step down from the role on December 23. Another Director, Michiaki Nishizawa is also set to step down on the same date.

Along with Tanahashi’s appointment, Hitoshi Matsumoto (Chief of Business Production for TV Asahi) and Taro Okada (President & CEO of Bushiroad Fight) have been named Directors of the company. Okada will be a Director on a part time basis.

‘The Ace of the Universe’ has been one of the top stars of the promotion. He had captured the IWGP Heavyweight Championship for the first of a record, eight times in 2006 and he has been a four-time pro-wrestling MVP. He has been hailed as the ‘Ace’ of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. 

Official announcement on Hiroshi Tanahashi’s appointment

On Friday evening, in an announcement on NJPW website, it was announced that the eight-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion has been appointed the new President & Representative Director of New Japan Pro Wrestling. This appointment came following a meeting of NJPW’s board of directors and shareholders.

Tanahashi is set to talk about his new role at Wrestle Kingdom 18 on January 4. The also sent a message for the NJPW fans:

“Thank you for your ongoing support of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. On January 4 at Belc Presents Wrestle Kingdom 18 in the Tokyo Dome, Hiroshi Tanahashi will address the fans directly in his new role as President. NJPW looks forward to your continued support under the new leadership structure.”

Hiroshi Tanahashi took to his Twitter and wrote: 

“I have been appointed as the representative director and president of New Japan Pro Wrestling Co., Ltd. We will do our best to help you enjoy New Japan Pro Wrestling even more. You won’t get tired, so don’t worry ???”

WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura also sent out a short Tweet on the same:

“Wow”

It has been also revealed that there will be a press conference on December 26 at 1PM JST regarding the aforementioned changes. 

WWE Looking To Lock Cody Rhodes Down With Contract Extension

Aaron Varble
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WWE has a big 2024 ahead for the company, complete with shiny new television deals, and plenty of important events. Triple H wants to make sure that key people don’t leave in the process.

Cody Rhodes WWE Contract News

Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that “WWE is interested in extending another contract, and it’s a major one.” They have zeroed in on locking Cody Rhodes down with a longer deal.

Sources have confirmed to Fightful that WWE has been engaged in talks with Cody Rhodes about a multi-year contract extension. Based on what we’re told, WWE is trying to lock him down long term. Of late, WWE has extended the contracts of Bayley, Charlotte Flair, Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio. Rhodes would be a monumental re-signing for the the company.

No terms of the contract with Cody Rhodes were reported, but it was noted that The American Nightmare is expected to receive “a sizeable raise whenever the deal does occur.”

The report also noted that Cody Rhodes bought a new bus for himself around Thanksgiving. That led some in the company to assume that a new deal was already signed, but it hasn’t been finalized yet.

More WWE Contract News

WWE has a few big contracts running up in 2024. Sheamus, Drew McIntyre, Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins all have expiring deals. The company also closed out 2023 by securing a few big contracts.

Charlotte Flair recently signed a hefty new contract. Also, Dominik Mysterio inked a new deal, as did his father, Rey Mysterio. WWE doesn’t want any Superstar entering the free agency pool that they want to keep around. Obviously, they don’t want Cody Rhodes going anywhere, either.

CM Punk & The Elite Have Lifetime NDAs Prohibiting Them From Speaking About Brawl Out

Aaron Varble
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CM Punk and The Elite had it out backstage at AEW All Out last year, but nobody’s allowed to talk about it. The lengths of that non-disclosure agreement stretch pretty far, ensuring that nobody involved in that altercation can divulge anything.

What Happened During Brawl Out

CM Punk went off during the press conference after All Out 2022. He was bloody, hungry, cursing, injured, AEW World Champion and irritated. All of those things culminated in a rant against Colt Cabana and the Young Bucks. When Punk was finished at the media scrum, Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks went to visit Punk’s locker room with AEW’s legal rep to discuss this situation.

CM Punk allegedly threw the first punch, but details are sketchy from that point on. We know that Matt Jackson had a chair thrown at him, and CM Punk’s dog, Larry, may have lost a tooth. In the end, it was incredibly violent, messy, and blew up in no time.

Ace Steel was also involved in the Brawl Out ordeal, and he was fired from AEW due to his involvement. He was accused of biting Kenny Omega during the brawl. Despite being rehired and working remotely after CM Punk’s return, he was let go again shortly after Punk’s firing from AEW.

CM Punk & Ace Steel Lawyer Up

The legal representation for both CM Punk and Ace Steel during that situation was provided by Stephen P. New, who has notable pro wrestling connections via Jim Cornette. It appears that they had a good working relationship, despite the tricky situation.

During an appearance on Wrestling With Rip Rogers, Stephen P. New discussed Brawl Out and the associated NDAs. In response to a question about the lifetime nature of NDAs, the attorney straightforwardly affirmed that they indeed last for life.

Stephen P New simply stated, “yes” when asked if there are lifetime NDAs in place, meaning that nobody can ever speak about that night.

CM Punk did make a crack about how it’s 2023, so you can’t just go around hitting people backstage. That was likely a reference to how he punched Jungle Boy, and not The Elite. That was Brawl In, not Brawl Out. 

Legally, The Second City Savior must stay away from any talk about his brawl with The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega in Chicago. Hopefully, they can keep it that way to avoid another legal situation.  

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