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Impact/TNA Partners With Endeavor On Revamped Streaming Service

Thomas Lowson
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IMPACT Wrestling (soon to be TNA Wrestling) is set to team with Endeavor to deliver its TNA+ on-demand streaming service. 

IMPACT will make the move to TNA Wrestling official next month with their TNA Hard to Kill 2024 pay-per-view. The change was announced in the closing moments of Bound for Glory 2023 this past October. IMPACT World Champion Alex Shelley recently told SE Scoops in an exclusive interview that the reaction to the name change has exceeded the expectations of those in IMPACT/TNA. 

In a statement, IMPACT Wrestling announced that Endeavor Streaming will power the new TNA+ app which will deliver “an enhanced user experience to all fans across the top streaming platforms.” The TNA+ service will come into effect on Friday, January 5, just eight days before TNA Hard to Kill 2024. The TNA+ app will feature a new look, expanded options and “increased functionality.” 

The TNA+ app will feature TNA’s full archive of content, in addition to exclusive original content and wrestler-created series. Users will even have the chance to interact with some of TNA’s top stars.

The New TNA+

IMPACT/TNA Wrestling President Scott D’Amore gave the following statement: 

“This is truly an incredible opportunity for us as we forge into an exciting new chapter of the TNA legacy. We are proud to partner with Endeavor Streaming on this initiative, and we look forward to continuing to provide our fans with the absolute best in new, classic and exclusive professional wrestling content, available to them anywhere, anytime, on their favorite devices, when TNA+ launches on January 5.”

Pete Bellamy, Chief Commercial Officer at Endeavor Streaming, added: 

“Wrestling fans are some of the most passionate in the world of sports and entertainment and TNA+ is the perfect ‘always-on’ personalised OTT service to help TNA build a deeper relationship with its global audience. We’re looking forward to working with TNA to deliver the best streaming experience for wrestling fans.”

Further details and subscription information for the new service can be found at TNAwrestling.com.

Endeavor is no stranger to the world of professional wrestling. In April of this year, the company reached a deal with WWE to acquire the Sports Entertainment juggernaut for $9.3 billion. This acquisition was finalized in September with the launch of TKO Group Holdings. 

WWE Considering NXT’s Tyler Bate For A Main Roster Call-Up

Thomas Lowson
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NXT Superstar Tyler Bate could be a main roster Superstar soon enough as a call-up could be in the works. 

Bate has been with WWE for some time now, and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that he could soon be on the main roster. There has been ‘talk’ of calling up the British Superstar, and the report adds that his size isn’t considered as big a deal now with Vince McMahon no longer running WWE’s creative department. It is stated that WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque is far more open-minded as to who can be a top star. 

Based on recent programming, Bate could be a SmackDown Superstar if he is called up to the main roster, as that is the current home of Butch. The pair have been both allies and enemies in WWE, and Bate was made an honorary Brawling Brute not too long ago. Butch is certainly in need of an ally right now, as he was recently abandoned by Ridge Holland and was attacked by Pretty Deadly on last week’s SmackDown. 

Bate has accomplished plenty in WWE already despite not making it to the main roster. In 2017, Bate became the first WWE United Kingdom Champion (later rechristened the NXT UK Championship). Bate was also the final holder of the title when the title was unified with the WWE NXT Championship at Worlds Collide 2022. 

Bate was also the only triple-crown champion in WWE NXT UK, having held the main championship, the NXT UK Tag Team Championships and the NXT UK Heritage Cup. In WWE NXT, he is a former NXT Tag Team Champion. 

Plans For Christmas Day Edition of WWE Monday Night Raw (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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The Superstars of Monday Night Raw will be able to spend Christmas Day with their loved ones rather than compete on the three-hour show. 

With Christmas Day falling on a Monday this year, there have been questions as to what this means for the red brand. In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it was pointed out that no show is being taped for the December 25, episode of the red brand. Instead, the plan is for a ‘Best Of 2023’ show to fill the three hours instead. While WWE hasn’t publicly confirmed this plan, one executive told the Observer that to the best of his knowledge, the reports of a ‘Best Of’ show are accurate. 

WWE & Christmas Day

This news will come as a relief to the Raw roster, who would much rather spend the special day with friends and family than at work. In 2017, WWE hosted a live Christmas Day episode of Raw, meaning the 25+ Superstars who appeared on the show, in addition to the numerous crew members, had to be away from their families on Christmas Day. The practice earned WWE considerable backlash from fans at the time. 

That show saw some of WWE’s top Superstars appear across the three hours. In the opener, John Cena defeated Elias, while later in the show, Samoa Joe defeated Roman Reigns by disqualification. In the main event, Jason Jordan and Seth Rollins captured the Raw Tag Team Championships from The Bar. 

Get into the festive spirit with these five epic Holiday-themed moments. Click here to see what made the list. 

Tony Khan Facing Blowback Over Recent High-Profile AEW Departure

Aaron Varble
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AEW is apparently going through some changes, and that called for a big firing this week, one that left many in shock. Kevin Sullivan was fired from his position with Tony Khan’s company, and some are critical of this decision.

We previously reported that Kevin Sullivan was fired from AEW. Not to be confused with the wrestler Kevin Sullivan, AEW’s Sullivan joined AEW in October 2019, making him one of the organization’s most seasoned backstage figures. Prior to his time at AEW, he had an extensive background in the wrestling industry, having served as Vice President of Production and an executive producer during his tenure with IMPACT Wrestling.

Kevin Sullivan Departs AEW

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer noted that Kevin Sullivan, who has been with AEW since they started the company, was fired in a surprising fashion. Nobody saw it coming, as Michael Mansury simply told Sullivan that they’re going in a new direction for 2024. Meltzer wrote:

“The story going around was Mansury told Sullivan that morning that they were moving in another direction in 2024.

Sullivan had no idea it was coming and was given no real explanation as to why, just that it was a Mansury decision.
People in the division didn’t even know that Mansury was Sullivan’s boss, noting that among those who worked in production that was never made clear.

The story in production is that nobody else was expected to be cut, but it was a team created by Sullivan so they are his guys.”

Tony Khan reportedly faced criticism within AEW due to a recent firing that surprised many in the company. Kevin Sullivan held the position of Vice President of Post Production, and his termination left people within AEW feeling shocked by the decision. Some wondered why Tony Khan didn’t step in and stop this from happening as well.

Kevin Sullivan had been with AEW since its early days, earning respect behind the scenes. He also had played a pivotal role in building the post-production team, primarily based in Nashville.

It appears that AEW is going to go in a different direction production-wise in 2024. They no longer needed Kevin Sullivan around to fulfill his duties. At this time, Sullivan’s firing is the only one that is expected, but he did leave a team of his curated guys behind in AEW.

What’s your take on AEW going in a different direction with production in 2024? How will that change things for fans watching at home? Let us know what you think by engaging on social media! 

Giulia’s Future Remains Uncertain Amid WWE Talks

Aaron Varble
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WWE has their eyes on the entire pro wrestling world, and Giulia has been on their radar for a while.

In early November, the pro wrestling world started buzzing over word that WWE had interest in signing Giulia. That initial report led to some confusion over whether the STARDOM and New Japan Pro-Wrestling star was actually a free agent and when she may be available to sign with another company.

In the latest issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer that WWE and Giulia have spoken on several occasions. Sadly, the part about her going to Orlando’s WWE Performance Center for a visit wasn’t true in the end. That being said, she still hasn’t told anyone in Japan which way she is going with things.

Regarding Giulia, the update is that she has not made her mind up and that she and WWE have spoken several times of late. They’ve talked enough that there is something to the story, although the story she was going to the Performance Center at this time ended up not being accurate. But she has not told those in Japan that she’s staying nor that she’s leaving.

There’s no guarantee that Giulia will end up making her way to North America. Bushiroad, the parent company of STARDOM and NJPW, is likely to work hard to keep her. There is a lot of fuss over the 29-year-old breakout star right now, whose could become a free agent in a matter of months. 

WWE has a lot of money to throw at contracts for talent that they feel will benefit their operation. Someone like Giulia could see a lot of success in WWE, but she is also having quite a time in STARDOM at the moment.

Do you think WWE will end up signing Giulia to a contract? Would Triple H make good use of her? Let us know what you think about this by engaging with us on social media! 

Cora Jade’s WWE NXT Return is on the Horizon

Aaron Varble
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Cora Jade broke out as a star worth paying attention to in NXT, but she hasn’t been around since August. That break for Cora Jade is likely going to end very soon.

Cora Jade has missed a lot during her time away from NXT. Becky Lynch had a reign as NXT Women’s Champion, and she also missed the Iron Survivor Challenge match. Cora Jade has been away from NXT television for long enough at this point.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that Cora Jade’s hiatus from WWE television is expected to end “imminently.” She is expected to be back this weekend, which is perfect timing for Deadline. 

“Cora Jade is scheduled to return imminently, expected to be this weekend.”

WWE NXT will take place on Saturday, December 9, at 7:30 PM in the Total Mortgage Arena located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. We will have coverage here at SEScoops, and Cora Jade’s return to NXT television may just go down during that event.

Cora Jade’s most recent match took place on July 25, 2023, as she faced off against Dana Brooke in a Kendo Stick match. Dana Brooke won that battle, and Jade walked out of the locker room a short time later. Dana Brooke was later released by WWE, so it looks like Cora Jade isn’t getting that win back. 

Cora Jade and Bron Breakker are still in a relationship, and she’s been very active on social media. Many fans may notice a change in Cora Jade’s appearance after her return, but odds are she will have even more determination to reach the top of WWE’s third brand.

Do you miss Cora Jade on NXT television? Should she come back and go right after the NXT Women’s Title? Let us know what you think by engaging on social media! 

Seth Rollins Explains His Beef With CM Punk

Bishal Roy
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0

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins recently decided to spill the tea on his growing frustration with CM Punk.

CM Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series: WarGames PLE and it sent shockwaves through the industry. The pro wrestling fraternity was left stunned and saw some wonderful reactions to his comeback as many had ruled out his return to the company. 

Fans were ecstatic to witness ‘The Best In The World’ return to Chicago except for Seth Rollins. ‘The Visionary’ was livid to see Punk and in a fan-recorded footage, Rollins was even spotted flipping off Punk and had to be held back. 

Soon, the fans speculated the reason behind Seth’s outrage towards ‘The Second City Savior.’ 

Speaking with Sports Illustrated Media, Seth Rollins explained the reason behind his reaction at the show. 

‘The Visionary’ claimed that Punk badmouthed him for years and made some harsh remarks that did not sit well with Rollins. He further said that he felt insulted by the way Punk treated him. Here is what he said:

“He (CM Punk) said some really bad things about me. Talked down about me for years, and the company (WWE), for years. I’m talking some really bad stuff. Called me a bootlicker and crap like that.
You don’t know me. You don’t know what I stand for. I’m a loyal person, and I felt pretty insulted by a lot of the ways he treated me, treated the place I work for, treated friends that I worked with.
I don’t need to get into any of the stuff with Colt Cabana if you want to look at that kind of stuff, that’s out there”

This week, Punk will appear on the Tribute to the Troops edition of WWE Smackdown. He will then appear on next week’s episode of WWE Monday Night Raw and will receive a contract from Raw General Manager, Adam Pearce. This will put an end to his current free-agent status and officially join the red brand. 

It will interesting to see the development of the feud between Rollins and Punk.

As it stands, it’s just the beginning of their feud. If recent reports are to be believed, Punk could be in line for a feud with the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns as well.

Drew McIntyre Contemplating Break from WWE Instead of Signing New Deal

Aaron Varble
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Drew McIntyre’s recent heel turn provided a breath of fresh air for his character, but the real question is how much longer WWE will have him around. Despite his current run on top of the red brand, McIntyre’s future in WWE is uncertain. 

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer stated that, much like Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre’s WWE contract was also frozen during his injury hiatus. This will ensure that the former WWE Champion will be with the company “through WrestleMania.” 

It was also noted that Drew McIntyre hasn’t signed a new deal with WWE yet. At this time, he is considering some time off, but there was also doubt that he would sit out any considerable amount of time due to his current momentum. 

“In the case of McIntyre, as of this week, there was nothing new as far as what he was looking at doing. He’s considered a number of things, including taking time off to be with his family that he’s seen little of for so long. But he’s also in his prime earning years with the chance to probably make the most money in his career”

Drew McIntyre has made a name for himself outside WWE before, so he might just do that again. Saying that you want some time off for your family is also a good way to let your contract expire, even if there are All Elite intentions.

Drew McIntyre got fans talking when he stormed off after WarGames at Survivor Series. He was working, so that reaction was not authentic. The fact that he got the internet talking in such a way only further drives home his influence. 

Tony Khan would almost certainly love to have the Scottish Psychopath on AEW television. Drew McIntyre has also worked with several members of the AEW locker room in the past, so it’s anyone’s guess what he will do next.

Drew McIntyre will be around WWE “through WrestleMania,” so fans can likely expect a program for him on the road to the show of shows in 2024. Then McIntyre will be at a very important crossroads for his career.

What’s your take on Drew McIntyre’s contract situation? Where do you think he will land next? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

Undertaker’s ‘1 DeadMAN Show’ Headed to WWE Royal Rumble Weekend

Michael Reichlin
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WWE has announced The Undertaker is bringing his ‘1 deadMAN SHOW’ to Royal Rumble weekend.

The show will take place on Sunday, January 28 from Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, Florida, the day after the Royal Rumble at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida.

About The Show

The Undertaker’s 1 deadMAN Show

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW features the WWE Hall of Famer in an intimate setting, sharing never-before-heard stories and answering questions from the audience.

The show has sold out venues in Nashville, Philadelphia, Boston, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Antonio and London since debuting.

Tickets

If you’re in town for the Royal Rumble, this could be a great way to cap off your weekend. Tickets will be available to purchase next Friday, December 15 at RutheckerdHall.com. 

An exclusive pre-sale will begin at 10 a.m. ET on Thursday, December 14. A limited number of VIP tickets, which includes premier seating and a meet-and-greet with The Undertaker, will also be available.

Billy Gunn Will Walk Away the Moment He Feels He Can’t Perform

Thomas Lowson
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There’s no secret as to how Billy Gunn can compete at the level he currently displays, according to the AEW Trios Champion.

At 60 years old, Gunn is the oldest champion in AEW, and likely the oldest star on the roster. Despite this, the tag team specialist continues to wow fans with a performance you’d expect to see from talent decades younger than the former King of the Ring. Speaking to the A2TheK Wrestling show, Gunn was asked what his secret is. 

“I wish I had one, I wish I had a secret I can tell. It’s just, the last [year] I just focus more on me staying healthy. I’ve never, luckily for me, I’ve nd Dr done any sort of crazy stunts. Other than bumping a lot which, yeah it has it’s wear and tear, but I just really focus a lot on my training and my food and all that. I have great people around me so it’s just as long as I’m going to do this, I want to make sure I can perform at the level that makes me happy. Because if I don’t, then I just want to walk away. Though my kids and wife will say different, I’m walking away.”

When asked if he has a retirement date in mind, Gunn made it clear he doesn’t intend to plan that far in advance.

“I don’t really look at things like that. It’ll just be when it’s right. When it’s done, it’s done. There’s no time schedule, I can’t go ‘Hey, All In in London next year will be [my last match]. My brain doesn’t function like that. My brain and me tell my body I can wrestle until I want to. Which I know is not really a thing… But me not doing something doesn’t really enter my mind.”

Gunn’s most recent match took place on the November 4, episode of AEW Collision and saw the Acclaimed retain the AEW Trios Championships against Dalton Castle and his boys.

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

Braun Strowman Commends Bray Wyatt for Mastering the Art of Mic Work

Bishal Roy
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0

Braun Strowman has nothing but praise for the late WWE superstar Bray Wyatt.

Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda) passed away at the age of 36. His premature demise sent shockwaves through the pro wrestling fraternity. An episode of SmackDown also featured tributes to Wyatt, including a ten-bell salute.

Wyatt was considered one of the most creative minds in pro wrestling and had unparalleled mic skills. Over the years his gimmicks evolved. ‘The Eater of Worlds’ introduced the Firefly Funhouse in 2019 when he portrayed a character similar to Mr. Rogers and presented himself as a children’s television presenter. However, the character had a dark secret, later revealed as The Fiend.

‘The Monster of All Monsters’ was part of the Wyatt Family led by Bray Wyatt back in the day. Later on they went on to have epic battles as rivals as well. 

Speaking to Bill Apter for Sportskeeda, Braun Strowman stated why he believes Bray was one of the best on the mic. Here is what he said:

“Bray Wyatt was, in my opinion, the epitome of talking on a microphone with his character work, being able to go in and out of all these multiple characters, see his facial expressions change, hear his voice change. 

I don’t know anyone who’s done it, other than Paul Heyman, who’s just been timeless with what he does as a manager and stuff like that. But he still doesn’t have the range and abilities to go through these multiple different characters that Bray had inside of his head. So in my opinion, it’s Bray Wyatt.

Strowman has been on the shelf since the Summer after undergoing neck fusion surgery. He is hoping to return at next year’s Royal Rumble match. You can check out his comments below:

Ethan Page Praises Matt Hardy For His Unselfish Nature

Anutosh Bajpai
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Ethan Page is forever grateful to Matt Hardy for everything he has done.

The AEW star grew up watching The Hardy Boys do all sorts of crazy stunts. It was a dream come true for him when he got to work with the duo during his run with The Firm in late 2022 and early 2023.

The Canadian star recently appeared on Chris Van Vliet’s Insight podcast. Ethan Page first discussed how his outlook on The Hardy Boyz has changed over the years:

“Back to my convo with Matt last night. He recently put up this clip of…it’s like Broken Matt in his bed and he’s reacting to old things that happened to him in his career. It was all these wild falls and bumps and crashes and just insane things that he put his body through. I’m watching this at 34, almost 20 years into my wrestling career and the thoughts going through my mind compared to when I was a kid watching.

When I’m a kid watching I’m thinking, ‘This is amazing. I want to do that. This looks so fun. Do you see he jumped off the ladder?’ and all this stuff. Now I’m 34, all these years in and I’m like, ‘How is this man alive? How is he walking?'”

Ethan Page On Working With Matt Hardy

Ethan Page then talked about working with Matt Hardy on AEW Dark: Elevation among other shows. He mentioned that Matt always made sure that he benefited from those matches, and explained that both of these veterans deserve their flowers:

“The things that Matt and Jeff have put their bodies through physically. I’ll never comprehend just because of how I feel now and how I have done nothing as close to them and I never will. I promise you. I never will. Both of those guys deserve their flowers forever just for what they’ve done and the fact that they’re still willing to give.

I was just giving Matt praise to somebody in the car yesterday because I feel like there are people in wrestling that, they might be nice and they’re very friendly and cordial. But when it comes down to the business part of things most people are very selfish. Whereas I feel like with Matt, he cares more about delivering a good story, instead of benefiting himself.

I got to work with him for over a year. [We were] very heavily featured on Elevation which gave us a lot of creative freedom, which I’m obviously going to defer to the legend in professional wrestling and he would always look out for me. He would always make sure that I benefited in anything that we did. That’s kind of rare in wrestling. So I will appreciate that from Matt for the remainder of my career and I’ll love that dude forever.”

You can check out Ethan Page’s full interview below:

More originals from SEScoops:

If you use any quotes from the article please credit Insight With Chris Van Vliet with an H/t to SEScoops for transcription

Kazuchika Okada Set For His First TNA Wrestling Appearance Since 2011

Bishal Roy
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0

Kazuchika Okada will soon make his first appearance for TNA Wrestling since 2011.

Impact Wrestling will become TNA Wrestling once again next month. Various aspects of the company are already reverting to the TNA branding and the first pay-per-view of the new era is TNA Hard To Kill on Saturday, January 13 from The Palms in Las Vegas.

The following night, TNA is running another show from the same venue, Snake Eyes. Impact/TNA recently announced the blockbuster news that NJPW/AEW star Will Ospreay will get his wish and wrestle in a TNA ring at Snake Eyes.  It turns out, Ospreay won’t be coming alone. 

Okada in TNA

Okada wrestled for TNA a few times in 2010 and 2011. Associating with Samoa Joe, he played a character named Okato, who was similar to Green Hornet’s sidekick Kato. Years later, Okada shared strong negative feelings about the experience. The connection between NJPW and IMPACT was harmed by this role.  However, neither company, nor Okada himself, are the same as they were over a decade ago. 

Okada currently holds one-third of the NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championships with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tomohiro Ishii. This marks his first time he has held the title.

Okada will be a free agent at the end of January and recent reports suggest that a new deal with NJPW “would typically be underway”, but the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is “seriously entertaining the possibility of wrestling for a different promotion.”

Cena On His Debut, Orton On SmackDown, Women’s Rumble Favorite & More

Thomas Lowson
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John Cena on His SmackDown Debut

It’s been over two decades since the WWE Universe was introduced to John Cena on the June 27, 2002, episode of SmackDown. This week, Cena looked back at his debut match against Kurt Angle and poked fun at the unfortunate ring attire he wore for his first match on TV. 

Orton booked for SmackDown

Randy Orton is back in WWE and is ready to take out every member of the Bloodline. The Viper will have the chance to do just tonight on SmackDown when he teams with LA Knight to face Jimmy Uso & Solo Sikoa. 

New WWE NXT Names

Last week, WWE filed trademarks for a series of new names and now some have been appointed to NXT talent. PW Insider reports that Andrzej Hughes-Murray, a former LA Rams linebacker, will now compete as Dion Lennox. Kevin Robertson, a former Temple University defensive tackle will now be working as Kanu Carver.

Latest on WWE NXT Europe

WWE announced NXT Europe in 2022, but despite initial hopes for the brand to be up and running in 2023, that hasn’t been the case at all. Speaking on the pre-NXT Deadline media call, Shawn Michaels said that WWE remains committed to NXT Europe. WWE’s Senior Vice President of Talent Development Creative pointed at upcoming shows in Europe such as Bash in Berlin and WWE Backlash: France as a sign WWE has big plans for the continent. 

A Women’s Royal Rumble Favorite

Next month, WWE will host its seventh-annual Women’s Royal Rumble match, with the winner earning a title shot at WrestleMania 40. In odds shared by Sky Bet, Bayley is the favorite to win next month’s match with 10/11 odds. Behind the Role Model is Jade Cargill (2/1), Becky Lynch (10/1), Raquel Rodriguez (10/1), and Charlotte Flair (12/1.) WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY and WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley share 16/1 odds. 

R-Truth: I’m So Close To Being Part Of The Judgment Day

Thomas Lowson
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0

It’s merely a matter of time before R-Truth becomes the newest member of The Judgment Day, at least according to Truth himself. 

At WWE Survivor Series: WarGames, Truth made his return to programming after spending the majority of 2023 out with a torn quadriceps injury. Since then, Truth has tried to win over the Judgment Day, though has so far only annoyed the group after making a mess in their locker room. 

R-Truth & The Judgment Day

While the Judgment Day have made it clear they’re not interested in Truth’s services, that’s not how the former 24/7 Champion sees things. Speaking on The Bump, Truth shared how he was able to get into the faction’s base. 

“Door was unlocked. They’re a very trusting group, and they’re more humble than you think. I’m trying to hook it up, you know what I’m saying? I’m that close from being in the group. I’m that close.”

As part of his application, Truth pointed out that he goes way back with reigning NXT North American Champion ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio. 

”I actually knew lil’ Dom when he was little, ‘Dirty Dom’ is what they call him — I’ve known him since he was little. [He and Lil Jimmy] they hung around each other all the time. It makes sense. And you know, JD [McDonagh], we’ve got to work with JD. His attitude, his temper, it’s not becoming.”

R-Truth isn’t the only wrestler interested in joining the Judgment Day. Click here to find out which WWE Hall of Famer sees himself as a future member. 

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

Lex Luger Wanted to Prove WWE Naysayers Wrong By Jumping to WCW

Thomas Lowson
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0

Lex Luger wanted to prove every one of his doubters in the World Wrestling Federation wrong when he jumped ship to WCW. 

After three years with the WWF, Luger returned to WCW in 1995 and appeared during the debut episode of WCW Monday Nitro. Not only did Luger appear on Nitro, but due to the pre-taped nature of Raw, he also appeared on the WWF flagship show that was aired that same night. 

Proving His Doubters Wrong

Luger’s arrival in Nitro was a shocking way for WCW to introduce their new show, and was deeply personal for Lex himself. Speaking in a WWE YouTube video about the best matches and moments of his career, Luger reflected on his Nitro debut being a closely guarded secret backstage. 

“Nobody in WCW other than Hogan, Sting, only a handful of people knew I was going to be coming out at that match. And I walked into the position [backstage] and guys were like ‘What are you doing here? Aren’t you still wrestling for WWE?’ Not anymore. I wanted to make it all the way to the top, still I wanted to prove to all the naysayers in WWE.

“My contract was coming up. I had planned on resigning up until a couple of weeks before that with WWE. It would’ve been a new two or three-year contract. And then they [WCW] invited me to come under contract back home in WCW and debut in that show as a surprise. That was like lightning how that went down.

The White Shirt

For many, the most iconic moment of Luger’s appearance on Nitro isn’t what he did in the ring, but rather his puffy white shirt. Speaking about his choice of attire, Luger was just as perplexed as to why he was wearing the oversized shirt. 

“It was a custom-made shirt for an NBA guy in Atlanta. Kevin Willis, played 23 years in the NBA, he made my suits and everything. People ask me about that moment, that shirt, all the time. Because I was always the guy with his shirt off so everybody’s expecting me to come down and no matter what, I was going to take my shirt off right? But the shirt stayed on. I’m honestly not sure why I kept the shirt on but I did.

“It’s unbelievable how people talk about that and want to see it in action figures and everything, the big white shirt, it’s crazy. I gave it to a young man I’m mentoring, who could be the next Total Package.”

Concluding, Luger appreciated the response fans gave him at the debut Nitro, which would set him up for a role as a headliner for WCW for years to come.

“Quite the response from the crowd at the Mall of America. I was like, man. I felt like if there was any wavering confidence at WWE at the time of where my direction of my character and career were going, when I got in that ring, it felt right.”

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

Latest on Bray Wyatt’s WrestleMania 39 Status Amid ‘Physical Issue’

Thomas Lowson
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Will Bray Wyatt’s first WrestleMania since his return to WWE go ahead without the former Universal Champion?

Wyatt was controversially released from WWE in July 2021, with his final match being his WrestleMania 37 loss to Randy Orton.

The Eater of Worlds returned to WWE at last October’s Extreme Rules event in the climax of the ‘White Rabbit’ storyline.

WrestleMania Doubts 

Ever since Elimination Chamber 2023, WWE has been teasing a WrestleMania match between Wyatt and Bobby Lashley.

Last Sunday, Wyatt did not appear as advertised for a WWE live event in Madison Square Garden, and it has been reported that he has been dealing with a physical issue.

During the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer answered questions about Wyatt’s status for WrestleMania.

“From what I understand, the match is still on for WrestleMania, and he should be back very soon. So we’ll see. But that’s pretty much all I can say, I mean there is something to it but I’m not at liberty to discuss it, but it’s not, as far as I know everything that I’ve been told is that it’s not a creative issue or anything like that.”

Dave Meltzer.

Lashley’s Match 

Should Wyatt be forced to miss WrestleMania, that will leave Lashley without a dance partner, which does not sit well for the All-Mighty.

On Twitter, the two-time former WWE Champion has seemingly distanced himself from the Bray feud and has said he’ll fight anyone at WrestleMania.

Lashley is on a 2-2 record at WrestleMania since his return to WWE, losing in 2019 and 2020 but winning in 2021 and 2022.

Bray Wyatt Opens Up About Struggles After Loss Of Brodie Lee, WWE Release

John Cena Comments on Sexual Misconduct Allegations Made Against Vince McMahon

Andrew Ravens
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John Cena has opened up on the sexual misconduct allegations made against Vince McMahon for the first time public while speaking with the AP. 

The former WWE CEO retired from this position and Chairman amid the sexual misconduct scandal last July. However, after thinking he got bad advice, he returned to the company at the top of the Board of Directors this past January. 

The Relationship

Regarding whether it was tough to reconcile his feelings for McMahon after the allegations were made, Cena stated that everyone makes mistakes, and he still loves his longtime boss.  

“No. I mean, everyone has the right to have their perspective. I have the right to have mine. When you love somebody, you take them as imperfectly perfect as they are. We all make mistakes, we all have poor decisions. Lord knows I’ve made my collection of poor choices. That doesn’t mean I’m not going to love somebody. There’s no way I can go on record and say I don’t love Vince McMahon.”

WWE Sale

One of the reasons that McMahon returned to WWE was due to him wanting to explore a potential company sale. Cena was asked about it, but noted that he didn’t know what was going on. 

“That’s way above my paygrade. I just don’t know what’s going on with that. I love Vince McMahon. He’s everything you could want in a great friend, business partner, father, mentor. I love the man. But his business dealings are his business and what he shares with me, that’s between us. But I don’t know what’s going on with the corporate structure in the WWE or the creative direction of the WWE. But when I’m there as a performer, it’s (WWE champion) Roman Reigns’ show. In my mind, he needs to be in the conversation, and in my mind, he’s the greatest of all time.”

Cena was spotted at McMahon’s 77th birthday party last August. McMahon made his first appearance at a WWE event since returning last Monday at Raw when Cena made his return to WWE.

“Miserable Old Wrestler” Dutch Mantell Responds After Criticism from Ric Flair

Thomas Lowson
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Dutch Mantell may be a “miserable old wrestler” according to Ric Flair, but the Nature Boy has now been branded an “ungrateful a**.”

Last July, Flair competed in what was promoted as his last match, which was heavily criticized by fans and those in the industry.

After Mantell recently criticized the match when speaking to Sportskeeda, Flair took to Twitter to fire back at the former Zeb Coulter.

The Response

Taking to Facebook, Mantell responded with the following open letter to the Nature Boy.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE NATURE BOY

Ric…I have great respect and admiration for your contribution to the wrestling profession. I never meant to ruffle your feathers on my podcast but I was just speaking the truth about your last match.

That was almost 10 months ago but you’re still touchy about it? But I wasn’t the only one who mentioned it was subpar. All the dirt sheet writers said it…in print and on their podcasts. Did you say anything to them? To set the record straight, very few fans got upset over my critique of your match. Truthfully, they agreed with me.

If I had just said the match is sucked, that would’ve been an upgrade. But Ric…you came out of nowhere to attack me personally. Why? Telling the TRUTH? It was a bad showing. Period. Everybody damn near universally agreed that it was an abortion.

What I want to know is who agented that match if anyone? You were in there with one of the top wrestlers in the world, Jeff Jarrett. If you can’t look good with him, then the issue is you.

How hard is to lay out…RIC FLAIR’S LAST MATCH. All you had to do was do a strut, yell some WHOOS in the air and slap on the Figure 4 for the finish…hit the bell, music, confetti, fans cheer and that’s it. My 12-year-old granddaughter could follow that formula. But, I heard Ric laid it out then I heard he faked a heart attack because he thought the match was ending too soon?? WTF?? It should’ve ended 10 minutes sooner than it did.


But Ric you said that I’m just an old wrestler trying to make a buck. I don’t disagree with that. Yes I am an old bastage and yes, I do try to make a buck. Just because I’m not involved in the wrestling game anymore doesn’t forego my bills. I have to pay money out every month just like everybody else in the world does. But that has absolutely nothing to do with your seriously flawed match.

Another thing Ric, is that “faking a heart attack was believable because fans thought you were having one. Did you go over that with Jeff before the match by “saying hey Jeff, I might fake a heart attack out there somewhere”? It was so believable that I even thought you were in trouble.

But, of course, you said you’d been drinking, partying, had no sleep and you looked like hell. And that’s being generous.

Nobody wants to see their hero on a stage where they’re concerned about their health or possible death. But then, you made yourself look worse, if that’s possible by telling your own fans to go get F’ed if they didn’t believe you made 300K.  That was total disrespect.

You can disrespect me, hell that’s happened a lot in my career but why disrespect the fans who love our sport? Those fans are the ones who make this country work, who get up every day to go to work, raise families, pay bills and taxes and keep this country running and buy tickets and PPV’s to see your ungrateful ass.

Nobody wants to see us settle this in a public forum such as Twitter or here. But for now Ric…I’m in total agreement. We’ll end this. But I’ll still speak of you Ric because you’ve created an audience for it. We don’t set the rules…fans do. They’re the reason either one of us is here. If they ask, I’m going to reply. Without them Ric, we both might be driving trucks or Ubers making $300 Grand a day. What a country we live in, huh? Have a great day sir.

Comments below: No Ric…you’re not allowed to comment. Tell your social media manager to STFU.

Ric Flair Reveals How Much Money He Made From His Last Match

WWE’s WrestleMania 39 Stranger Things Trailer Reveals Night One’s Main Event

Thomas Lowson
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The question as to which match will headline WrestleMania 39: Night One has been on the mind of fans for some time.

This year will mark WWE’s fourth two-night WrestleMania: a concept that the company adopted in 2020 in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

The two-night format has allowed more Superstars to have a WrestleMania main event to their name, including AJ Styles, Bianca Belair, and Kevin Owens.

WrestleMania 39: Night One

With WrestleMania 39 going Hollywood (given its LA setting) WWE has been releasing parody trailers for popular films and TV shows featuring the Superstars.

This week, WWE featured Rhea Ripley in a Stranger Things parody, with the Judgment Day member playing Millie Bobby Brown’s Eleven.

In the video, an unseen (but very recognizable) voice all but announced that Ripley will be headlining Night One, stating:

“Feeling that pressure, huh? Of being the main event of WrestleMania? Is it triggering you right now, Rhea? You want some? Then, go get some!”

At WWE WrestleMania 39, Ripley (the winner of the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match) will face SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair.

This will make Flair the first and only woman in WWE history to headline two WrestleManias (after previously closing out WrestleMania 35 in 2019.)

It had previously been reported that this match was the favorite to headline Night One, with Night Two being headlined by Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns Vs. Cody Rhodes.

While not confirmed by WWE yet, Logan Paul told listeners of his popular ImPaulsive podcast that his match with Seth Rollins will be on Night One.

That show will take place on April 1, which will mark Paul’s 28th birthday.

Rhea Ripley Reflects On The Advancements Of Women’s Wrestling

Latest on Jade Cargill’s Mystery Opponent for This Week’s AEW Dynamite

Thomas Lowson
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Jade Cargill’s reign as AEW TBS Champion could be in grave jeopardy if she steps into the ring with one of women’s wrestling’s most decorated champions.

This week, AEW Dynamite will make its debut in Winnipeg, Canada, and Tony Khan wants to make a great first impression in the city.

It has been announced that Cargill will put her title and her undefeated streak on the line against a Canadian wrestler.

Cargill Vs. Taya?

One name being thrown around as a possible contender for Cargill is Taya Valkyrie, who recently finished up her time with Impact Wrestling.

Many have seen this as a sign that the former Franky Monet is AEW-bound, and this isn’t the only clue.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided another clue that Valkyrie may be the Canadian set to face Cargill.

“She [Valkyrie] was scheduled to be on a World Series Wrestling tour of Australia that’s taking place right now, and she’s not there. That leads me to believe… I actually thought that she’s the mystery Canadian that Jade Cargill is going to wrestle on Wednesday, and the fact that she has a tour scheduled, and she’s not there, she did give notice.

“She’s done with Impact, and she’s leaving MLW, and she isn’t on this tour. We know she’s either going to WWE or AEW, but the point is, they talked about a mystery Canadian, and she’s Canadian and it’s starting to add up that it could be. So, unless she’s debuting on Raw, SmackDown, or NXT this Tuesday, she didn’t have to leave that tour.”

Dave Meltzer.

Valkyrie is no stranger to championship matches, being a former Reina de Reinas Champion, Knockouts Tag Champion, and the longest-reigning Impact Knockouts World Champion.

AEW is Winnipeg

Whether Valkyrie is Cargill’s mystery opponent or not, this week’s Dynamite debut in Winnipeg will be one to remember.

The stacked card includes new AEW Trios Champions the House of Black defending their gold against The Elite and Jericho Appreciation Society.

The Blackpool Combat Club will face the Dark Order (including the returning Stu Grayson.)

AEW All-Atlantic Champion Orange Cassidy will take on Jeff Jarrett to determine the first AEW International Champion.

Taya Valkyrie Addresses Speculation About Her Future (Exclusive)

h/t – Wrestling News

Former TNA Wrestling Star Anthony ‘Crimson’ Mayweather Arrested

Thomas Lowson
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Former TNA Wrestling star Anthony Mayweather, better known to fans as Crimson, has been arrested for violation of a protection order.

Mayweather, 38, made several calls to his juvenile son’s phone and sent several text messages to his wife, Heather Mayweather, despite the protection order against him prohibiting this.

The former TNA wrestler made these calls and sent these texts, even while police were present, according to Clarksvilletoday.com.

After a warrant was issued for his arrest, Mayweather was detained and booked into the Montgomery County Jail on March 8, and charged with contempt.

A judicial commissioner set his bond at $1,000, and Mayweather was previously arrested for headbutting his wife in 2016.

Crimson in TNA Wrestling

During his second tour of Iraq, Mayweather decided to pursue a career in professional wrestling and would train at the NWA Main Event school in Clarksville, TN.

In 2010, Mayweather competed in a series of dark matches for TNA, which resulted in him being signed and would debut as ‘Little Red,’ the brother of Amazing Red, that December.

Mayweather was reintroduced as ‘Crimson’ the following month and would go on a winning streak, which would include becoming World Tag Team Champions with Matt Morgan.

When the pair lost the titles (with Morgan being pinned) TNA stated that Crimson was still undefeated, and the newly-turned heel feuded with Morgan.

After a 470-day streak, Crimson’s undefeated streak was definitely broken by James Storm, who defeated him at Slammiversary 2012.

Crimson was moved to OVW for further conditioning shortly after, and would make appearances in 2015 and 2017 for TNA/Impact Wrestling.

Kevin Nash And ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin Have A Pact To Not Watch AEW

Thomas Lowson
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All Elite Wrestling may have some impressive viewing figures (albeit figures not as high as this time last year) but two wrestling legends aren’t tuning in.

It’s no secret that AEW’s ratings have fallen dramatically in recent months, with many attributing that to the absence of CM Punk.

There has been some good news recently for AEW, with last Friday’s AEW Rampage drawing the show’s highest ratings since January.

The Pact

AEW has a passionate fanbase of people both in and out of the wrestling industry but two names not watching (for now) are Kevin Nash and Steve Austin.

During the latest episode of Kliq This, Big Daddy Cool explained why he and the Rattlesnake are changing channels whenever AEW is on their TVs.

“I just want to go on record today, I have not watched AEW in months. It goes back to Steve Austin and I got a pact that he’s not watching it therefore I’m not watching it and what I can tell by Twitter is [Undertaker] is now not watching it.”

“Steve Austin and I got a pact that he’s not watching it therefore I’m not watching it.”

Kevin Nash.

“It’s nothing against any of the talent over there, anybody that does anything over there. It’s just something that we decided. It’s like lent, you have to give things up so we did that. It doesn’t change the fact that Kenny Omega is my favorite wrestler. Doesn’t change that at all.”

Nash’s comments about The Undertaker stem from a Twitter exchange, in which Nash joked that Bret Hart doesn’t watch AEW.

In response, the Phenom said that Nash’s comments got a “huge pop” from him.

Big Daddy Cool’s comment about Kenny Omega being his favorite wrestler come after Nash made the claim during Omega’s feud with Will Ospreay.

Kevin Nash: Bobby Lashley “Always Seems To Be Missing Something”

h/t – Wrestling Inc

Madusa on Mercedes Moné: Hopefully She Goes Back to WWE if She Wants To

Thomas Lowson
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Could IWGP Women’s Champion Mercedes Moné one day make her return to WWE?

After she (and Naomi) walked out of the May 16, 2022, episode of Monday Night Raw, questions circulated around Moné’s future with the company, and she went unused for months.

Despite reports that she and Naomi had made peace with WWE, Moné would debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 17 this past January.

The Return?

It was last month that Moné captured the IWGP Women’s Championship from KAIRI in the former’s first match since departing WWE.

Like Moné, Alundra ‘Madusa’ Blayze knows what it is like to draw the ire of WWE, as she was blacklisted for two decades for throwing the WWF Women’s Championship in the trash on WCW programming.

Appearing on Under The Ring to talk about her career and her new book “The Woman Who Would Be King: The MADUSA Story,” Blayze spoke about Moné’s future.

“I think Mercedes has actually during a time when she was still champion, I believe tag team championship, whatever she was feeling, she felt like whatever and she handed the titles in and she walked out because she wanted to fulfill something, her dream, something she always wanted to do. I mean, God bless her on that, you know, somebody following what they want to do.”

“Hopefully, she will go back to WWE someday if she wants to.”

Alundra Blayze.

“Hopefully, she will go back to WWE someday if she wants to. Right now she’s just fulfilling it. Let’s hope and continue that everything is great over there with her and Stardom. Maybe she’s paving the way that women can do what they want to do. I may have waited until my contract expired and then did it, but you know, everyone has their own reason and choice and I don’t know what that was, so I can’t say on hers.”

Could A Return Happen?

While Moné is out of WWE right now, that doesn’t mean we may not see Sasha Banks walk down the aisle once more.

After all, Blayze was blacklisted for twenty years but was eventually brought back, and other names fans thought they’d never see again (Bret Hart, Ultimate Warrior, etc.) have returned over the years.

It has been reported that some in WWE believe that once Moné gets NJPW ‘out of her system’ she will return to the Stamford-based promotion.

Mercedes Moné Vows To Make IWGP Women’s Championship A ‘Global’ Title

h/t – Wrestling News

Ric Flair to Announce Next 2023 WWE Hall of Fame Inductee This Week

Thomas Lowson
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Fans won’t have to wait long to find out the next inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2023.

Unlike previous years, WWE has left announcing inductees incredibly late, as typically, most if not all inductees would have been announced by now.

Last Friday, WWE confirmed that three-time former World Champion Rey Mysterio will be inducted this year.

Ric Flair

Ric Flair is no stranger to the WWE Hall of Fame, as he was inducted in 2008 (marking the first time an active Superstar had been inducted.)

Four years later, Flair was inducted again as part of the Four Horsemen, making him the first two-time WWE Hall of Famer.

On Twitter, WWE announced that Flair will appear on this week’s The Bump to announce the next inductee into the Hall of Fame.

Who’s Going In?

We’ll have to wait until Wednesday to know who Flair will be inducting, but there are some names fans are expecting.

One person many are predicting is Flair’s Evolution comrade Dave Batista, who withdrew from the 2020 Hall of Fame class three years ago.

Another name Flair could announce is Japanese wrestling legend The Great Muta, who is expected to be inducted into this year’s class.

Flair and Muta worked together in WCW and at WCW/NJPW inter-promotional events.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Stacy Kiebler is expected to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2023.

Hulk Hogan Calls for Next WWE Hall of Fame Inductees After Rey Mysterio’s Induction
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