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NJPW Resurgence 2025 Results: Title Changes and Double Main Event Drama

Michael Reichlin
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NJPW Resurgence 2025 Results: Title Changes and Double Main Event Drama

NJPW Resurgence 2025 took place on May 9 at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California, showcasing high-profile matches, major title shifts, and notable returns.

In the night’s headline matches, AZM emerged as the new NJPW STRONG Women’s Champion, pinning Mina Shirakawa in a triple threat bout that also included Mercedes Moné. Moné nearly broke the fall but was a moment too late, allowing AZM to score a career-defining win.

The IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match between Hirooki Goto and Zack Sabre Jr. ended in a no-contest after a double pinfall. As a result, Goto retained the title, leaving the championship picture unresolved.

United Empire’s Templario and TJP dethroned The World Class Wrecking Crew to capture the NJPW STRONG Openweight Tag Team Titles, marking a key victory for the faction.

Tomohiro Ishii retained the NJPW STRONG Openweight Championship against Drilla Moloney, while Konosuke Takeshita successfully defended the NEVER Openweight Championship against El Phantasmo.

The Young Bucks teamed up with The Good Brothers to defeat BULLET CLUB War Dogs in an eight-man tag team clash. The match reinforced the dominance of the veteran duo in NJPW’s U.S.-based events.

Earlier in the night, Bea Priestley returned in a surprise pre-show appearance, defeating Viva Van. CJ Tino also picked up a win over Allan Breeze.

NJPW Resurgence 2025 continued the company’s push into the U.S. market, featuring title stakes and storyline developments that set the stage for upcoming events.

Damian Priest to be Honored with Bronx Walk of Fame, Street Naming

Thomas Lowson
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0
Damian Priest to be Honored with Bronx Walk of Fame, Street Naming

Damian Priest has spent years building his legacy in WWE, and now that legacy will be permanently honored in his hometown. According to a report from the Bronx Times, Priest is set to be inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame in May 2025. In addition to this honor, a street in the Bronx will also be named after the former World Heavyweight Champion.

This recognition was announced by Joe Tessitore during the May 9 edition of WWE SmackDown. On the show, Priest teamed with LA Knight to defeat Solo Sikoa and U.S. Champion Jacob Fatu in a tag team match. Priest, Knight, and Drew McIntyre are scheduled to challenge Fatu for the United States Championship at WWE Backlash on May 10.

Priest’s success both inside and outside the ring continues to be celebrated. While the Bronx Walk of Fame induction is already confirmed, it remains to be seen whether Priest will attend the ceremony as the newly crowned United States Champion.

Damian Priest To Host Slayer’s Only U.S. 2025 Concert

Fan Ejected After Throwing Bottle at John Cena on WWE SmackDown

Thomas Lowson
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0
Fan Ejected After Throwing Bottle at John Cena on WWE SmackDown

The May 9 edition of WWE SmackDown served as an action-packed go-home show ahead of Backlash 2025, but one fan didn’t stick around to see it through. During the broadcast, a fan threw a beer bottle at Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena—a moment that briefly caught Cena off guard.

Despite the unscripted disruption, Cena remained composed and even referenced the incident during his in-ring promo, demonstrating his ability to adapt on the fly.

Footage of the fan surfaced on social media shortly after the incident. Security promptly escorted the individual out of the venue amid loud boos from the crowd. The swift removal reflected WWE’s no-tolerance policy toward fans who physically interfere with talent.

While Cena currently plays a heel character, this incident reminded fans that certain lines should never be crossed. As of now, it is unclear whether any charges have been filed, but WWE’s immediate response underscored its commitment to performer safety during live events.

A.J. Francis Claims WWE Heat Over Creative Diss Tracks

Thomas Lowson
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A.J. Francis Claims WWE Heat Over Creative Diss Tracks

TNA’s A.J. Francis was part of WWE for years during two runs with the company as Hit Row’s Top Dolla. Now, Francis has opened up about his WWE experience, claiming he got ‘heat’ backstage for trying to share his creative side.

On X, fka Twitter, Francis shared that he spent years making tracks in WWE that he intended to use in feuds against his fellow Superstars. The TNA star shared that he “was not only told NOT to drop some but actually got ‘HEAT’ for it” adding that this was “very interesting.”

As proof, Francis shared one of his diss-tracks aimed at LA Knight. In the track, Francis takes credit for Knight’s popularity after a brief run as Max Dupri.

“I’m the brother that kicked you in your head and helps you remember who you are. One Jordan to the side of your dome. And you went from Max Dupri to LA Knight. Boy, I made you. The least I could get is a thank you.“

Francis’ claim sparks conversations about WWE’s control over its talent, especially after reports that Karrion Kross has been funding his own promos. While much in WWE has changed since Vince McMahon’s exit, Francis remains angry that his efforts to benefit his own career only earned him heat backstage.

Mercedes Moné Loses NJPW Strong Women’s Title to AZM At Resurgence

Thomas Lowson
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0
Mercedes Moné Loses NJPW Strong Women’s Title to AZM At Resurgence

Mercedes Moné is one of wrestling’s most dominant women but now the CEO has lost one of her championships. At NJPW Resurgence, AZM captured the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship from Moné in a triple threat match that included Mina Shirakawa.

The finish of the match saw the three wrestlers trade pin attempts before Moné was taken out outside of the ring. AZM rolled up Mina Shirakawa to get the 1-2-3 and win the gold. After the match, AZM grabbed the microphone to cut a promo in Japanese before telling the fans “I am so happy!”

Moné was the fourth holder of the NJPW Strong Women’s Title and had held the gold since Forbidden Door 2024, where she defeated Stephanie Vaquer. Despite this loss, Mone remains the AEW TBS Champion, as well as the Undisputed British Women’s Champion for Revolution Pro Wrestling.

Mercedes Mone Fires Back At Fan After Being Called “Washed”

New #1 Contender For Women’s Championship Crowned On SmackDown

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
New #1 Contender For Women’s Championship Crowned On SmackDown

Tiffany Stratton has found her next challenger.

This week’s episode of SmackDown from Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio featured a #1 contenders match between Jade Cargill and Nia Jax. The Women’s champion was at the ringside watching this bout.

Cargill had been in control for most of the bout, and she almost got the pin after slamming Nia from the top rope and delivering a frog splash. Naomi then made a surprise appearance and attacked Stratton at the ringside.

The former AEW star got distracted by Naomi’s appearance, which allowed Jax to take advantage. She ended up winning the match with an Annihilator on the former TBS Champion.

WWE has the Backlash PPV tomorrow night, but the championship match between Stratton and Jax is most likely to take place at Saturday Night’s Main Event set for May 24 from Tampa, Florida.

This wasn’t the only big development on the women’s side on tonight’s show. The episode also featured the return of Alexa Bliss, who wrestled in her first match since the Elimination Chamber PPV.

Bliss teased forming an alliance with another returning star later in the show. Not only this but WWE also teased a future showdown between Jade Cargill and a veteran performer in coming times. You can check out more about these developments here.

Face Turn Teased For Legado Del Fantasma Member On SmackDown

Anutosh Bajpai
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Face Turn Teased For Legado Del Fantasma Member On SmackDown

WWE has teased face turn for a SmackDown star on tonight’s episode of the Blue Branded Show from Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio.

The Backlash go home episode of the show featured a tag team match between Andrade El Idolo & Rey Fenix and Legado Del Fantasma. Angel and Berto were representing the faction while Santos Escobar was at the ringside for their support.

Escobar tried to help his teammates by distracting the referee at one point. The distraction worked against Berto, however, as he had managed to get Fenix down for a pin, and the delay actually allowed the masked star to escape.

The ending of the match then saw Rey Fenix taking out Angel with a big suicide dive while Andrade delivered The Message to Berto for the win.

Santos Escobar was not happy with the result, and he started insulting Berto after the match. The SmackDown star finally had enough, however, as he slapped the hand of the Legado Del Fantasma leader and proceeded to exit the ring alone.

The current form of the faction came into existence after the 2024 draft, when Rey Mysterio and other LWO members were drafted to Raw while Santos Escobar and Los Lotharios stayed on SmackDown.

Now we’ll have to see if Angel joins his tag team partner in breaking away from the group or he sticks around with Escobar instead.

Released WWE Superstars Return to NJPW At Resurgence Event

Thomas Lowson
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0
Released WWE Superstars Return to NJPW At Resurgence Event

New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Resurgence event promised to be a huge night for the promotion, and also saw some recently released WWE Superstars in action. During the show, Bea Priestley made her presence felt. The former Blair Davenport defeated Viva Van in her first match since being released earlier this year.

Priestley wasn’t the only released WWE Superstar to compete at Resurgence. Later in the show, the Good Brothers (Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows) returned to the promotion to team with the Young Bucks. The foursome faced off against the War Dogs and Gedo. The finish saw Gallows lift Gedo onto his shoulders as The Young Bucks connected with the EVP Trigger, followed by the Meltzer Driver. Anderson got the win for their team with the Magic Killer.

Post-match, the Bucks and The Good Brothers put up the Too Sweet gesture, but the War Dogs seemed ready to join in, they swerved and walked away. With the classic Bullet Club theme filling the arena, it remains to be seen what’s next for Gallows and Anderson after their New Japan return.

Ex-Superstar Slams ‘Insane’ WWE After Latest Talent Releases

Watch: What Happened With John Cena After SmackDown Went Off Air

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Watch: What Happened With John Cena After SmackDown Went Off Air

John Cena’s final appearance before Backlash did not end on a high note.

The Cenation Leader made an appearance on the PPV go-home episode of SmackDown to hype up his ‘Last Time Ever’ match with arch rival Randy Orton.

The 17-time world champion did not hold back in his promo against The Legend Killer, even bringing up Orton’s failed 2006 drug test during the segment.

John Cena also appeared to be ready for a sneak attack from Orton after eating a number of RKOs in the past few weeks. When a masked figure appeared and tried to attack Cena, he managed to counter it into an Attitude Adjustment.

What Happened After SmackDown

The caution however, did not prove to be enough for the World Champion. Orton appeared behind Cena as he was celebrating his win over the masked figure and Randy managed to deliver yet another RKO Outta Nowhere to his opponent.

The Viper picked up the belt after taking out John Cena and posed with it to end the show. After the broadcast went off air, Orton made his way up the ramp slowly, with the crowd signing along his theme song. Cena got up much later and he slowly made his way out of the ring in silence.

These two wrestling legends will be meeting in their final match tomorrow night as John puts his world title on the line against Randy in the main event of Backlash in Orton’s hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.

Eric Bischoff Defends Hulk Hogan: ‘He Goes Out Of His Way for Minorities’

Thomas Lowson
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Eric Bischoff Defends Hulk Hogan: ‘He Goes Out Of His Way for Minorities’

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan remains a controversial figure due to the racist comments he made that were made public in 2015. While many have spoken up against the Hulkster. Eric Bischoff has now spoken out in Hogan’s defense.

During an appearance on the Keepin’ It 100 podcast, Bischoff was asked to weigh in on the controversy. According to Bischoff, Hogan frequently goes out of his way to be kind, especially to minorities and underprivileged children.

“I’ve paid attention to how he treats people. I’ve seen him go out of his way to make others feel valued, especially minorities or underprivileged kids, particularly in environments where you can tell they may feel overlooked or excluded. I’ve watched him make time for everyone.”

Bischoff said that Hogan’s biggest flaw is that he’s “loyal to a fault” and claimed the Hulkster has “been burned by some of the people closest to him.” Bischoff, who is working with Hogan with his new wrestling promotion, hopes fans judge Hogan for more than just one night.

“I just hope people judge him by his actions over time, not by one night when he was hammered, chasing vodka because he was in so much pain. And for the record, a lot of that was prescribed. If you saw the list of what he was prescribed back then and the amounts, you’d understand.“

In closing, Bischoff encouraged people to consider the entirety of Hulk Hogan’s character and history, rather than defining him solely by his offensive remarks. It remains to be seen if the Hulkster is ever truly forgiven, or if these racist remarks, among other controversies, continue to haunt the wrestling icon.

Shelton Benjamin: Hulk Hogan Lost Me After Dud ‘Apology’


Charlotte Flair Teased For New Alliance In First Appearance Since WrestleMania 41

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
Charlotte Flair Teased For New Alliance In First Appearance Since WrestleMania 41

Charlotte Flair’s WWE return did not go as she might have envisioned.

The Queen had not been seen on WWE programming since WrestleMania 41. She challenged Tiffany Stratton for the Women’s title after winning the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble at the PPV but failed to capture the belt.

The wrestling veteran returned to the company after several weeks of absence on tonight’s Backlash go-home episode of SmackDown from Dayton, Ohio.

Flair grabbed the mic and claimed that she wanted to announce her path back to the championship but the crowd was not in the mood for this promo. Charlotte Flair was booed out of the building by the fans and the only cheer she got was when the former champion said that she’ll never return to Dayton again.

The Horsewoman then left the ring in frustration without making her announcement. She was interrupted by General Manager Nick Aldis backstage, who told Charlotte to calm down and act like a leader.

Before she could get in the car to leave the arena, however, Flair was greeted by Alexa Bliss. The segment ended with Bliss telling the former champion that they needed to have a chat.

Tonight’s SmackDown saw Bliss’ return after months of unexplained absence. The female star wrestled her first match since Elimination Chamber on the show, competing in a tag team bout. You can check out more about it here.

Alexa Bliss Returns to WWE SmackDown, Teams With Zelina Vega for Tag Team Win

Michael Reichlin
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Alexa Bliss Returns to WWE SmackDown, Teams With Zelina Vega for Tag Team Win

Alexa Bliss made her WWE return on Friday night, stepping back into the ring after a two-month absence. She appeared as the mystery partner of United States Champion Zelina Vega in a tag team match against Chelsea Green and Piper Niven

https://x.com/wwe/status/1921003006209802386?s=46

Bliss and Vega secured the win after Bliss executed her signature Twisted Bliss followed by a variation of Sister Abigail. The match marked Bliss’ first in-ring appearance since the Elimination Chamber event on March 1, where she competed in the number one contender’s match won by Bianca Belair.

Later in the show, Bliss was featured in a backstage segment with Charlotte Flair. The interaction followed Flair’s announcement that she was leaving the company in response to negative crowd reactions. The exchange hinted at the possibility of a future tag team alliance between Bliss and Flair.

Bliss previously made her initial return to WWE earlier this year at the Royal Rumble, ending a nearly two-year break from the company.

Jeff Cobb Expected to Start with WWE Soon

Michael Reichlin
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Jeff Cobb Expected to Start with WWE Soon

Jeff Cobb is expected to begin his tenure with WWE shortly, and internal speculation suggests he may be present at Backlash this weekend.

According to PWInsider, Cobb’s debut has been discussed creatively in recent weeks. While it remains uncertain whether he will appear on-screen during the event, those within WWE anticipate his arrival is imminent.

Cobb’s signing marks a significant addition to WWE’s roster, given his international experience and strong in-ring reputation.

Scarlett Eyes WWE In-Ring Role, Match With Dominik Mysterio

Thomas Lowson
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0
Scarlett Eyes WWE In-Ring Role, Match With Dominik Mysterio

Scarlett Bordeaux has expressed interest in stepping back into the ring for WWE and even has a certain ‘Dirty’ opponent in mind. Speaking with WWE Deutschland, Scarlett explained that while she loves managing her husband Karrion Kross, she’s “always open” to getting back in the ring.

“I train. I’m always ready. I love managing. Managing has always been my favorite thing to do, but I do like wrestling when it means something.”

Scarlett isn’t just ready to tussle with her fellow women but won’t shy away from battling the men. Scarlett reflected on her past experience in intergender matches before calling out Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio.

“That’s what I was known for on the indies before. Having a singles match against Dom Mysterio—that would be amazing.”

While Scarlett has competed at WWE live events in mixed tag-team matches, she is ready for a bigger role in WWE and in intergender competition. It remains to be seen whether the ‘Smokeshow’ gets the chance to prove what she can do in the ring away from her husband.

TNA Adds Harley Hudson to Knockouts Roster Ahead of Canadian Tour

Michael Reichlin
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0
TNA Adds Harley Hudson to Knockouts Roster Ahead of Canadian Tour

TNA Wrestling has announced the signing of Harley Hudson, marking another key addition to its growing Knockouts division. The Liverpool-born wrestler will make her debut on the May 23 episode of Xplosion, where she faces fellow international competitor Myla Grace.

Hudson brings eight years of in-ring experience and becomes part of TNA’s ongoing effort to spotlight talent from across the globe. Her debut match airs as part of TNA’s two-night event in Brampton, Ontario, running May 23–24. The May 23 Under Siege event will stream live on the TNA+ app.

Following the announcement, Hudson tweeted, “i’m a knockout ???” as she joins a roster that continues to evolve with international talent.

What to Expect Inside AEW’s Debut Book ‘This Book is All Elite’

Thomas Lowson
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0
What to Expect Inside AEW’s Debut Book ‘This Book is All Elite’

The first book from AEW ‘This Book is All Elite‘ will hit shelves this November, giving fans an in-depth look at the promotion. Now, more has been revealed as to what this highly-anticipated tome will hold within its pages.

According to Fightful Select, “countless interviews” have been conducted over the past year by author Keith Elliot Greenberg, a known name in wrestling literature. The book aims to chronicle AEW’s journey from its inception to its landmark debut at Wembley Stadium and beyond. Fightful added that interviews have been conducted “over the last year or so.”

The book will also include exclusive backstage stories, never-before-seen photos, and detailed accounts of AEW’s biggest moments. While huge moments like AEW’s debut in Wembley and Sting’s retirement will be covered, fans are eager to see how the tome wiill cover the reported backstage issues and CM Punk’s exit from AEW in 2023. Punk, once considered the biggest name on AEW’s roster, is nowhere to be seen on the cover.

The book will be available through major retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Stay tuned for the latest on This Book is All Elite.

Saraya Reveals AEW Storyline Pitch She Refused, Why She Said No

Myla Grace Becomes First Irish Wrestler to Sign With TNA

Michael Reichlin
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Myla Grace Becomes First Irish Wrestler to Sign With TNA

TNA Wrestling has signed Myla Grace, marking a major milestone as she becomes the first Irish talent to join the promotion. Her arrival highlights TNA’s continued push to grow its international Knockouts division.

The Northern Irish wrestler began her career in 2018 on the British independent circuit. She gained further recognition through her appearances in WWE NXT UK from 2021 to 2022 and recently competed for Japan’s Dream Star Fighting Marigold earlier this year.

Grace confirmed the news on social media, writing, “First ever Irish wrestler to sign with TNA! I’m officially a knockout!!”

Her addition reflects TNA’s broader strategy of diversifying its roster and spotlighting emerging talent from around the world.

WWE Backlash 2025: Updated Betting Odds

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Backlash 2025: Updated Betting Odds

With just a few more sleeps until WWE Backlash 2025, updated betting odds offer a clearer picture of how Sunday’s high-stakes matchups could unfold. BetOnline has the latest lines, pointing to several strong favorites across the card.

In the WWE Undisputed Championship match, John Cena is a commanding -5000 favorite against Randy Orton, who enters the bout as a significant underdog at +1000. Cena’s odds reflect strong confidence in his continued reign.

Jacob Fatu is another heavy favorite, sitting at -5000 in the Fatal Four-Way for the WWE United States Championship. Damian Priest (+1200), LA Knight (+900), and Drew McIntyre (+600) trail far behind in a match that’s expected to solidify Fatu’s reign.

Gunther is heavily favored at -1000 in his singles match against Pat McAfee (+550).

Dominik Mysterio stands as a strong favorite (-900) to retain the Intercontinental title against Penta, who is listed at +500. While Penta’s odds indicate some potential for an upset, the numbers remain strongly in Dominik’s favor.

The Women’s Intercontinental Championship sees Becky Lynch as a solid -400 favorite over Women’s Intercontinental champion Lyra Valkyria (+250), signaling a potential title change.

Fans will find out how these matches will unfold soon enough as WWE Backlash 2025 goes live this Sunday.

Teaser Trailer For John Cena’s ‘Peacemaker: Season 2’

Andrew Ravens
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0
Teaser Trailer For John Cena’s ‘Peacemaker: Season 2’

John Cena is set to reprise his role as the vigilante Christopher Smith in the hit series “Peacemaker.”  Max announced that “Peacemaker” Season 2 will premiere exclusively on the streaming platform on August 21, 2025. The news comes as Cena undertakes promotional activities for the highly anticipated return of the series.

Coinciding with the promotional push, Max has released a new trailer, offering fans an extended first glimpse into Peacemaker’s next mission. James Gunn returns as the creator and showrunner for the second season, continuing the story of the titular antihero determined to achieve peace at any cost.

John Cena leads the returning cast, which includes Steve Agee (John Economos), Jennifer Holland (Emilia Harcourt), Freddie Stroma (Vigilante), Danielle Brooks (Leota Adebayo), Robert Patrick (Auggie Smith), and Chukwudi Iwuji (Clemson Murn).

Initially introduced in Gunn’s 2021 film “The Suicide Squad,” Cena’s Peacemaker character proved immensely popular, leading to the successful 2022 spin-off series. Season 1 was a hit for Max, breaking streaming records with its finale. Season 2 is expected to pick up from the explosive events of the previous season, continuing its signature blend of dark comedy, intense action, and compelling character-driven storytelling.

Ex-WWE Star Details Sneaking Into AEW Collision’s Backstage Area

Thomas Lowson
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0
Ex-WWE Star Details Sneaking Into AEW Collision’s Backstage Area

Maven Huffman was a name on WWE programming for years but recently was spotted behind the scenes at All Elite Wrestling. Fans speculated that Maven’s appearance backstage at AEW Collision signaled a new role with the company—but the truth was far less official: he snuck in.

On his YouTube channel, Maven shared how he managed to get backstage at an AEW Collision taping despite not having an invite. The first obstacle—getting into the building—was surprisingly easy. His plan? “Act like you belong.” It worked on a parking lot guard, and just like that, Maven was in.

“I’m not booked for this show. Hell, I’m not even on AEW’s payroll, so I have no clue what’s going to happen. The one thing I do know is you’re coming along for the ride… I’m a firm believer that if you simply act like you belong, some people—it’ll win them over… I can’t believe that worked.”

Maven hoped to meet some of the talent, with his ultimate goal being a face-to-face with Tony Khan. Along the way, he spotted Billy Gunn cutting a pre-taped promo and reunited with his WrestleMania X8 adversary, Dustin Rhodes.

“The guy who carried me through my first WrestleMania! It’s good to see you, brother. Thank you again. I’m going to thank you for the rest of my days.”

After Gunn wrapped up his promo, “Daddy Ass” caught up with Maven. Like many others, Maven was amazed at how Gunn continues to defy age.

“How in the hell he looks better now than he did in 2002 when I first started working with him, I’ll never know. The man is ageless, and somehow he’s added more muscle. He looks great. He’s in high spirits. Obviously, you can tell he’s happy at the home he found here in AEW.”

Maven also took a nostalgic detour through catering, reminiscing about his go-to post-match treat: a pulled pork sandwich. He later connected with Thunder Rosa, calling her one of his favorite gimmicks in wrestling today. The two teased a possible collaboration on Maven’s YouTube channel.

His visit continued as he bumped into fellow Tough Enough alum Josh Mathews, noting, “Word had spread that I’m here.” After quick encounters with Scotty 2 Hotty and a “scissoring” moment with Anthony Bowens, Maven finally got to meet Tony Khan.

“Thanks for coming. You’re welcome anytime… I hope this is the first of many.”

Though Maven’s entrance into AEW Collision was unorthodox, he left with his head held high. Two decades after his WWE run, it’s clear the wrestling world still has plenty of love for the first Tough Enough winner.

Je’Von Evans Deletes Tweets After Fiery Exchange with AEW’s Ricochet and Tony Khan Insult

Michael Reichlin
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Je’Von Evans Deletes Tweets After Fiery Exchange with AEW’s Ricochet and Tony Khan Insult

Over the past 24 hours, a heated social media exchange erupted between NXT star Je’Von Evans and AEW’s Ricochet, with AEW President Tony Khan taking the worst of it.

The situation began when a fan praised Evans as the “best young prospect in wrestling.” Ricochet, a former WWE star now with AEW, responded dismissively, saying he would “squash” Evans if they ever faced off. Evans fired back by highlighting his training under Shawn Michaels at WWE’s Performance Center, while Ricochet has downgraded since becoming All Elite.

The exchange escalated when Evans made a controversial comment, calling Tony Khan a “crackhead” and mocking Ricochet for performing “in front of 2,000 people, every week, for a crackhead.” Evans further suggested that Ricochet only engaged with him to generate attention, and is getting the most exposure he’s ever had in his career from their interaction.

Ricochet responded by mocking the size of NXT’s audience sizes dismissed Evans energy, but the damage was done.

While Ricochet’s posts remain online, Evans has since deleted his tweets.

IYO SKY Hailed Internally As Breakaway WWE Star

Andrew Ravens
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0
IYO SKY Hailed Internally As Breakaway WWE Star

Reigning WWE Women’s World Champion IYO SKY is reportedly receiving exceptionally high praise from within the company, with at least one key decision-maker viewing her as a “breakaway star” in 2025. This insight comes from Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

According to the report, a WWE source high up in decision-making praised SKY’s all-around abilities. Meltzer shared the source’s comments: “Sky has been considered breakaway star this year, combining the fire and voice inflections that made Asuka a strong promo without speaking English and ‘her ridiculously great workrate, and everyone loves working with her, so no one has a problem making her shine, letting her shine, and designing a match for her to shine.’”

This internal acclaim follows SKY’s standout performance at WrestleMania 41, where she retained her Women’s World Championship in a critically acclaimed Triple Threat match against Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, a bout even “Stone Cold” Steve Austin praised. Since joining WWE in 2018, SKY, already considered one of the world’s best, has secured multiple Women’s Championship reigns and Women’s Tag Team titles.

While not scheduled for this weekend’s Backlash PLE, SKY will team with Rhea Ripley against Roxanne Perez & Giulia on Raw next Monday.

TKO Group Reports Strong Q1 2025 Results

Michael Reichlin
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TKO Group Reports Strong Q1 2025 Results

Key Financial Highlights

  • Revenue: $1.27 billion (9% YoY)
  • Net Profit: $58.4 million (vs. a $234.5 million loss in Q1 2024, which had included the Cung Le lawsuit accrual)
  • Free Cash Flow: $162.8 million (262%)
  • Debt: $2.76 billion
  • Market Cap: $13.8 billion (stock closed at $168.96 on May 8)

Segment Performance

WWE

  • Revenue:$391.5 million (23.6%)
    • Media rights & content: $251.6 million (boosted by Netflix, USA Network, CW deals)
    • Live events & hospitality: $76.3 million (higher site fees, attendance, pricing)
    • Sponsorships & marketing: $25.6 million (nearly doubled YoY)
  • EBITDA: $193.9 million (38.3%)

UFC

  • Revenue:$359.7 million (14.9%)
    • Live gate & hospitality: $58.6 million (first Saudi Arabia event brought a reported $20 million site fee)
    • Sponsorships & partnerships: $64.3 million (32%)
    • Licensing: $12.7 million (14%)
  • EBITDA: $227.4 million (16.6%)

Cost Synergies: Corporate expense trimmed by $38 million as overlapping WWE/UFC roles were consolidated.

Updated 2025 Outlook

  • Core Revenue (UFC, WWE, PBR): $3.005 billion – $3.075 billion
  • Company wide Revenue (incl. IMG, other assets): $4.49 billion – $4.56 billion
  • Full year EBITDA: $1.49 billion – $1.53 billion

Management projects WWE will post its largest quarterly revenue ever in Q2 thanks to WrestleMania 41 and a spring Saudi premium live event.

Investor Call Highlights

  • UFC Media Rights: COO Mark Shapiro said ESPN has been “instrumental” to UFC’s growth; with the exclusivity window now open, TKO will explore other bidders while awaiting ESPN’s forthcoming flagship streaming tier announcement.
  • Boxing Expansion: A new, yet to be named boxing entity will stage 12 marquee shows annually for five years, featuring 1–4 “superfights” (e.g., Canelo Álvarez vs. Terence Crawford on Sept 12). Nick Khan and Dana White will promote, with Turki Alalshikh financing major bouts.
  • Multi Brand Weekends: April’s Kansas City triple header (PBR Fri, UFC Sat, WWE Sun) generated strong site fees and free media buzz; TKO plans more stacked weekends to maximize exposure and revenue.

Bottom Line

Cost synergies and richer WWE TV contracts flipped last year’s first quarter loss into a solid profit for TKO. With record Q2 revenue on deck and fresh growth plays—including a boxing venture and pending UFC rights renewal—the company raised full year guidance and continues to build on its combat sports portfolio.

WWE Backlash 2025: Preview, Matches, and How to Watch

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Backlash 2025: Preview, Matches, and How to Watch

WWE storms into St. Louis for WWE Backlash 2025 on Saturday, May 10, 2025, marking the first major PLE following WrestleMania 41. Hosted at the Enterprise Center, this year’s event is headlined by a generational clash as John Cena defends his record-setting 17th world title against hometown icon Randy Orton.

Backlash 2025 is stacked with personal grudges, title matches, and the first major steps into WWE’s post-WrestleMania landscape. With John Cena’s farewell run, Orton’s hometown pride, and the emergence of new alliances, every match carries weight.

How to Watch

Start Times:

  • United States: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT (Kickoff at 6:00 PM ET)
  • United Kingdom: 12:00 AM BST (Sunday)
  • India: 4:30 AM IST (Sunday)

Broadcast Details:

  • United States: Peacock
  • International: Netflix

Undisputed WWE Championship Match: John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton

John Cena captured his 17th world title at WrestleMania, surpassing Ric Flair’s legendary record. But his celebration was short-lived, as Randy Orton-St. Louis’s own-ambushed Cena with an RKO on Raw, reigniting a rivalry that defined a generation. Now, these two veterans write the final chapter of their story in Orton’s hometown.

WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Match: Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch

Fresh off a dramatic split as tag champions, Becky Lynch’s heel turn on Lyra Valkyria has set up this all-Irish showdown. Valkyria, the rising star, faces her toughest test yet against a now-vicious Lynch, who’s determined to add more gold to her legacy.

Pat McAfee vs. Gunther

Gunther, frustrated after his WrestleMania loss, targeted commentator Pat McAfee on Raw, leading to this unlikely but highly anticipated showdown. McAfee, a fan favorite and former NFL star, steps back into the ring to settle the score with “The Ring General”.

United States Championship Fatal Four-Way: Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Drew McIntyre vs. LA Knight vs. Damian Priest

Jacob Fatu will defend the United States Championship in a Fatal Four-Way bout against Drew McIntyre, LA Knight, and Damian Priest. The match was authorized by SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis following recent in-ring altercations among the participants.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest WWE News on the road to WWE Backlash 2025.

Some People In WWE Feel AEW Should Sign Dakota Kai After Release

Andrew Ravens
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Some People In WWE Feel AEW Should Sign Dakota Kai After Release

Despite her recent WWE release in early May 2025, Dakota Kai continues to be regarded positively by many within the company.
Some people in WWE reportedly believe All Elite Wrestling should sign her. Dave Meltzer shared the international reaction to Kai’s upcoming free agency in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

“Those we talked to in WWE were positive on her and felt AEW should sign her.”

Over the last two years, AEW has heavily invested in its women’s division by signing top free agents and developing talent that they have. The likes of Toni Storm, Mercedes Mone, Mariah May and others have helped elevate the roster.

In WWE, she made history in NXT by becoming an inaugural and two-time NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion alongside Raquel Gonzalez, with whom she also won the first-ever Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic in 2021. Transitioning to the main roster as a key member of Damage CTRL, she was in a tag team role and won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship twice with IYO SKY.

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