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Reelz Channel To Stream On Peacock, Except for MLW Programming

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The Reelz Channel will have a great opportunity to reach a bigger audience on Peacock. However, Major League Wrestling will lose out.

MLW has tried to find a bigger audience to compete with wrestling promotions like WWE and All Elite Wrestling. MLW alleged and sued WWE last year with claims that WWE stopped them from reaching a deal with Tubi and interfered with their relationship with Vice TV. On Feb. 13, the judge on the MLW v. WWE antitrust lawsuit case dismissed MLW’s complaint against WWE, which allowed them to amend their complaint. The ruling was because the judge believed MLW lacked sufficient facts to prove their case.

During their lawsuit with WWE, MLW reached a deal with Reelz. On Tuesday, MLW does their weekly episode of MLW Underground at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT on the Reelz Channel. The deal would benefit MLW, as they could have TV exposure and grow their fanbase. On Feb. 28, Reelz made a deal with Peacock, who has a streaming deal with WWE. This has resulted in MLW losing out on another opportunity.

MLW New Logo

Reelz Deal with Peacock, Leaves MLW Out

NBC’s Universal streaming service Peacock signed an exclusive streaming rights deal with WWE on Jan. 25, 2021. The agreement has worked out successfully for NBCU as they get monthly live events from WWE and the library, which has helped gain subscribers. However, it also means that a competitive wrestling company like MLW couldn’t also air on Peacock.

The Hollywood Reporter’s Alex Werpin shared details about Reelz’s deal with Peacock and why MLW will not be involved.

“…While it will include the channel’s live linear feed, it will not stream Tuesdays in the 10 p.m. hour, as Reelz airs Major League Wrestling in that hour. Peacock has a streaming deal with the WWE, which has exclusivity in the category on Peacock,” wrote Werpin.

The Reelz Channel will still be available for different cable providers like Direct TV and Verizon Fios, so MLW will still have a chance to gain an audience. However, airing on Peacock would’ve benefitted them greatly.

Jake Roberts Reflects On New Role In AEW

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Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts is a pro wrestling veteran with decades of valuable experience. He’s currently signed with AEW and recently began working in a new capacity behind the scenes.

Roberts is regarded as one of the greatest talkers the business has ever seen. His expertise with promos have been studied long after he hung up his boots. He’s now working to impart his mic work mastery on the AEW roster.

The master of the DDT recently spoke with Graham “GSM” Matthews for Daily DDT and opened up on his new role helping talent hone their interview skills.

“They’re not taking the time to develop characters,” Jake Roberts said. “They’ve got a lot of great athletes going out there flying through the air and doing inconceivable things with their bodies, but at the end of the night, nothing sticks. It’s like, ‘What was that? What are they going to do next?’

“It’s because there’s not a character involved and I’d like to see them work on their characters, starting with interviews. That would help a lot. Hopefully I can help some of those guys do better interviews. That’s my new job in AEW and hopefully I’ll do a good job.”

In addition to this, the WWE Hall of Famer clarified that he’s glad to give talent advice if they are inclined to it. Furthermore, he also expressed that it can be “frustrating” to see the same mistakes happen.

Jake Roberts was first featured in the promotion during “The Road to All Out” back in 2019. Following that, he made an appearance on the March 4 edition of AEW Dynamite. The following week, he introduced AEW star Lance Archer as his client.

He has been serving as the manager of ‘The Murderhawk Monster’ ever since. However, Jake Roberts had been dealing with several health issues which put him on the shelf. He also thanked his fans for their support. Both Roberts and Archer returned on the February 24 episode of AEW Rampage. It is also noted that Roberts was featured in the newest edition of A&E’s Biography: WWE Legends, which aired on February 26.

Details on WWE Booking Roman Reigns vs. Sami Zayn Rematch

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WWE is going back to a match between Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn for this Saturday’s house show in Toronto. 

They first wrestled in Montreal at Elimination Chamber earlier this month that saw Reigns go over to retain the title. 

Although this is a non-televised show, WWE felt they needed to make a change to what they originally announced, a tag team bout featuring Reigns and Solo Sikoa against Zayn and Kevin Owens, for the live event due to ongoing storyline reasons. 

The Reasons

While speaking on today’s Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer stated that the original tag team bout was changed as Zayn and Owens are still in the process of trying to get on the same page as Zayn wants Owens to forgive him and they go up against The Bloodline together. 

Meltzer stated that it wouldn’t make much sense for Owens and Zayn to suddenly team together even though they’ve yet to make up, even if it is in front of a few thousand people in attendance. Also, WWE felt that they could sell more tickets to do Reigns vs. Zayn.

WWE has sold under 6,000 tickets for the show after the announcement. This was an increase of 600 tickets sold after Reigns was first added to the lineup of the card. 

This proves that Reigns is a draw for WWE, although not as strong as John Cena, who drew an additional 2,000 tickets just 48 hours after he was announced for the March 6 Raw in Boston.

Get To Know: The Black Rasslin Podcast

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In the latest installment of our Get to Know series, we bring you a special interview with The Black Rasslin Podcast.

Wrestling podcasts are becoming a competitive business as content creators try to gain a thriving fanbase. Amid this competitiveness, many content creators try to separate themselves from the pack. However, some creators, like the Black Rasslin Podcast, feel the need to support others and want to unite the community.

The Black Rasslin Podcast is among the more successful independent wrestling podcasts today. They have not only made a name for themselves but, with their platform, try to promote and help others.

I spoke with Khal, Fam, and Drip from The Black Rasslin Podcast about how they got started, why they share their platform with others, and their upcoming project that fans should be excited about.

Here’s the video of our discussion, followed by written highlights.

How Did The Black Rasslin Podcast Begin?

Khal started the original concept of The Black Rasslin Podcast in 2011 from his admiration for hip-hop podcasters like Cipha Sounds, Peter Rosenberg, and Combat Jack. Listening to the Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez, he wanted to blend wrestling and hip-hop. Unfortunately, he had to put the podcast on hiatus after a year due to his job. However, the time away from doing The Black Rasslin Podcast led to his meeting Fam and Matth, who did a hip-hop podcast called Where’s Buffy.

Having the common bond of wrestling and hip-hop, in late 2016, Khal and Fam discussed resurrecting The Black Rasslin Podcast.

“…One day Fam, the podfather was like, ‘Hey Khal, myself and my cousin, you know Matth, the one that used to rap. We love pro wrestling. We want to talk about pro wrestling, but we can’t do it on the Buffy. So we wanted to ask you a question, would you want to bring back Black Rasslin with us, or would you be cool with us doing it on our own,'” said Khal reflecting on how the podcast started.

Drip BRP
Drip from The Black Rasslin Podcast

He continued, “…I was like, you know what, I don’t have anybody in life to have these conversations with, so I said maybe we can figure it out together and see what goes on. So, the first time I had a conversation with the two of them in real life was the first episode of the Black Rasslin Podcast season two.” They would start their newly formed podcast in January 2017.

As the podcast gained success and an audience, the crew discovered Drip, who listened to the podcast as a fan and would give feedback. Noticing his talent as a podcaster, The Black Rasslin Podcast added Drip to the team. Last year, the successful podcast brought in Mimi, who gives a different perspective to the great group of creators.

Mimi BRP
Mimi from the Black Rasslin Podcast

Why Do They Help Other Content Creators?

Although The Black Rasslin Podcast has succeeded, they are still unafraid to work with others. Recently, they worked with wrestling commentator and podcaster Stephanie Hardy for a Black History Month collaboration. They believe the wrestling community works best when everyone is unified and people are given opportunities.

“…It’s like a game of dodgeball, right where they put the ball, and everybody before the game is all sitting there looking at each other, they put the ball down, and you have to get it, and you have to run for the ball, but then you realize that’s not what we are playing, said Fam. He explained, “…There are enough balls for everybody, you know what I’m saying. Some of us got two, and the fact of the matter is the better that you pod, the better you are able to create these relationships. It’s like if everybody has a ball, then the norm is having a ball.”

Khal added, “…The only way some people are heard is when other people prop up their voices because when you are on my podcast, a link goes with it. People are going to know where to find you.”

something else podcast
Something Else Podcast with Mark Henry

The Black Rasslin Upcoming Projects

The next couple of months will be a busy time for them. Alongside their podcast, they added two new shows last year, White Noise, hosted by Drip, and Something Else with Fam and Lovely Laveau. As well as those ongoing weekly shows and more content on Patreon, they have their BRP 50 coming in less than four months.

The BRP 50 on June 19 celebrates what black wrestlers they believe had a great year the previous year. The Black Rasslin team compiles top 50 list of up-and-coming and established black wrestlers like Carmelo Hayes, Bianca Belair, and Jade Cargill in the same way Pro Wrestling Illustrated makes their list yearly. The point is not necessarily where everyone is listed but to celebrate and acknowledge black wrestlers’ work in wrestling. It also helps spotlight up-and-coming wrestlers, that may not be on the general public radar or are just starting out.

Khal
Khal from the Black Rasslin Podcast

When asked about the creation of the BRP 50, Khal said, “…Matth, Fam, and I had a conversation, and the conversation was like, damn, every black pro wrestling outlet is really, as they should, focusing in Feb. and Black History Month and not to say that we don’t want to do that, but at a certain point everybody drawing from the same black history fact. Every fact is new to somebody at some year; it feels like everyone is doing the same thing.”

He continued, “…We thought about it, and the idea of doing something around Juneteenth came up. Using a variation of PWI 100, they created a system looking at win/loss records, titles held, etc., to create the BRP 50. This year marks six years since its creation, as they individually will start their list to compare and narrow down what this year’s BRP 50 will be.

BRP group
The Black Rasslin Podcast

The Future of The Black Rasslin Podcast

The podcast continues to grow as it has become its own media network. While they have projects and shows they are working on, it hasn’t stopped them from wanting to create more content. In the interview, Khal shared that he spoke with Mimi and Laveau about working on their projects for the network. However, he added that nothing is confirmed yet.

Regardless the future of the podcast is looking very bright. As a podcast that shows love to others, maybe their influence of unity spreads to the wrestling podcast community.

Chris Jericho: ‘AEW is The Place to be, No Matter Who is in Charge of WWE’

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Chris Jericho is expecting to finish his career with AEW despite working for WWE for the majority of his time in the wrestling business.

Jericho was the biggest name to sign with AEW in 2019 before Tony Khan secured a weekly television deal to air Dynamite on TNT, now TBS. 

The top AEW star was asked about this while speaking with Daily Star, and he has zero interest in ever going back to WWE. Jericho said he loves everyone in WWE. 

The Place to be

“I don’t see why it wouldn’t be. I don’t hold a torch for WWE. To me, that’s not ‘the place to be’. AEW is the place to be. It really is. I’ve been in WWE. I know how it works. They work that way, I don’t care if Vince is there, Hunter is there, or whoever is there. They have a way of doing things, and I was there for 20 years and was pretty good at it.”

Jericho stated that he likes how things are done in AEW and doesn’t know why he wouldn’t want to finish his career in the promotion because he’s having fun in wrestling. 

“Business is business and there’s always ups and downs, but I have zero interest in ever going back to WWE. That’s not out of bitterness or anger. I love Vince and I love Hunter and all the people there.”

Jericho believes he has a stake in the game and he takes pride in being one of the few to have had the experience of being on national TV before AEW launched in 2019. He also feels like there is so much more for him to do in the promotion. 

After signing an extension, Jericho is under contract with AEW through December 2025. Jericho will be in action at AEW’s Revolution by taking on Ricky Starks.

Young Bucks Look Back on their Classic Match Against Kenny Omega & Hangman Adam Page

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The Young Bucks have fond memories of the early years of All Elite Wrestling.

Nick and Matt Jackson have been with AEW from the very beginning. They were instrumental in making the dream of AEW a reality. Through some exciting highs and heartbreaking lows, the brothers from Rancho Cucamonga have unquestionably left their mark on the wrestling industry.

Since AEW launched in May 2019, there are some matches that stand out above the rest. One of the most memorable AEW matches occurred at Revolution 2020, when the Young Bucks challenged Kenny Omega and Hangman Adam Page for the AEW World tag team championships.

On Tuesday, the Bucks commented on the match, calling it their “vision of what wrestling can be.” They also reminisced about the early days of AEW.

In the end, Hangman Page and Omega were victorious. The match was an instant classic and may be the best tag team match in AEW history. For what it’s worth, this match is the highest rated tag team match ever by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

On his podcast, Jim Ross said, “That was one of the best tag team matches that I’ve ever seen. Certainly I don’t know if I’ve ever called a better executed one.”

The Bucks are two-time AEW World tag team champions. Along with Kenny Omega, they are the reigning World Trios Champions.

The Elite will defend the trios championships against the House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, and Buddy Matthews) at AEW Revolution 2023.

Update On Matt Riddle’s WWE Status Ahead Of WrestleMania 39

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WWE star Matt Riddle has been one of the popular stars in the company. He been portrayed as a fan favorite since joining NXT in 2018, but has gotten himself involved in a fair share of controversial matters off-screen.

Riddle was last seen in the WWE ring when he had teamed up with Kevin Owens to face off The Usos on the December 5th edition of Monday Night RAW. Riddle and Owens lost the match. Following the match, it was Solo Sikoa who brutally assaulted ‘The Original Bro’ and he was stretchered out to the back.

At the time, it was widely reported that Riddle was being written off television after failing a drug test and later entered a rehabilitation program.

Matt Riddle Ready to Return

With WrestleMania being right around the corner, WWE typically wants all hands on deck’ to ensure the biggest show of the year features as much star power as possible.

One month out from the big weekend, Riddle is still nowhere to be found on television. On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, “Dave Meltzer provided an update on the former WWE United States Champion and his eventual return.

“He’s been out of rehab for a long time, his suspension has been over for almost a month now, 4 weeks,” said Meltzer. So it may be that they’ve just decided not to use him for Mania & not do anything with him, or maybe they just don’t want to invest in him.”

Despite being off television, Riddle remains active on social media. He recently earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and uploaded a photo of himself showing off his new grill.

Riddle has put a lot of effort into getting himself healthy. SEScoops wishes him the best of luck as he gears up for the next chapter of his WWE career.

Kenny Omega Talks Injuries, All Out, AEW’s Backstage Atmosphere

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Kenny Omega was Renee Paquette’s guest on the latest episode of The Sessions podcast. The reigning AEW World Trios Champion spoke at length about the injuries that resulted in him taking extended leave of absense from wrestling, the events that unfolded at All Out 2022 and how it’s affected things behind the scenes.

Omega was working through a slew of injuries during his reign as AEW World Champion. When he lost the title to “Hangman” Adam Page at Full Gear 2021, he decided it was finally time to get healthy.

“I had to get both my knees done, I had to get a shoulder done, I had to get my septum fixed, and then a stomach hernia, so there’s a lot,” said Omega. “So knowing that I had to get all those things done, it felt like they were more minor surgeries, it felt like it, but I ended up being out for like eight months.

But I’d felt like the company was in a fantastic position, and i’d felt that the story i was able to tell with Hangman, was one that i was very proud of, and i felt that the people were behind him. I was happy we were moving forward, in a direction that didn’t necessarily require me. I felt like, ‘Now is a good time to get this stuff taken care of.'”

Full Gear Page Omega

Kenny Omega sensed something ominous upon his AEW return

When Kenny Omega finally returned to AEW, he felt that things were very different. There were some new faces in the locker room. More importantly, he sensed there was very bad energy brewing.

“Then I felt like, 8 months had passed, and it was time to come back, and it was kind of like, the GIF of the dude walking in with the pizza boxes and the whole room is on fire. I didn’t get it, I was like, ‘What’s with this strange atmosphere? What’s with this strange aura? Why does something feel so ominous right now?’

– Kenny Omega

“I didn’t even know, i couldn’t figure it out, and next you knew, there was more stuff happening again, like.. it’s so surreal because it’s almost like it never even happened. It happened! Of course, it happened.”

Of course, the “it” he’s referring to is the backstage brawl that took place with CM Punk and The Elite after AEW’s All Out 2022 pay-per-view. More on that to come.

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Kenny Omega returning to AEW after his 8-month hiatus

“I hadn’t even gotten like, familiar with my surroundings yet, or re-familiarized backstage with the new AEW at that point, because there were new people in the locker-room, and a lot had happened in 8 months. So, to kind of come back and see a lot of old faces, and be like, ‘Oh, hey’ but then feel this eerie sort of.. I felt like i was in Eerie, Indiana for a second, it was like, ‘Oh, boy’ and then, stranger things started happening.

I was like, ‘Oh man, what do i do? This isn’t right. Someone needs to be the voice of reason. This is silly.’ Then, things fell off the rails, and we just involved in a very silly situation that people are probably going to be talking about for months and possibly years to come, i don’t know.'”

AEW All Out and the Fallout

Renee asked about the incident that took place at All Out, and if it bothers Omega that people will be talking about it for so long, especially considering all the secrecy that remains until this day. Part of you wishes you could sweep everything under the rug, but there are still a lot of unanswered questions regarding what went down.

“Here’s the way I look at it,” Omega began. “I’ve been involved in competitive sports, contact sports, at the highest level. some people on our roster have, some people on our roster have not. but i feel like, if you have, you’ve probably been in a spat or two with a teammate, and maybe sometimes, a time or two, it might come to blows, you know, it happens. so, coming from that sort of background, there was a point to it all, when i felt like, ‘Oh, this just happens. We’re gonna get over it. Let’s just calm down and talk it over.’ Nope, nothing is … we’re all doing ok here, you know, we’re getting it out of our system, no problem, but let’s maybe stop? You know?

We just don’t live in that world anymore, I suppose, sometimes there are things, especially now when you are in a multi-billion dollar industry, when there are sponsorships on the line, and TV deals on the line, it’s not like high school football. It’s not a little tiff you maybe have on your fellow amateur wrestling team or whatever, or maybe someone held a submission too long in jiu jitsu training, it’s not that. These things shouldn’t even be happening.

It’s a shame, that the general public and a lot of people aren’t ever going to know what went down and how it could have been prevented or how it could have ended differently.

– Kenny Omega

That’s just sort of how things go, again, when it’s a big business operation. i don’t think anybody is happy that it happened, or is proud that it happened, or anything like that. i think across the board, everybody thinks it was a terrible situation that was unnecessary.”

AEW’s Backstage Atmosphere Today

Omega says the atmosphere in AEW has been cleared up and things have calmed down considerably. It’s unfortunate that the public will probably never know exactly what happened that night, but he’s moved on. H’s thankful nobody got seriously injured and sincerely wishes everybody well.

“There was a while when, and I can understand the confusion, it’s sort of like, “Hey, we heard this thing happened, we know this thing happened, it’s all over the dirtsheets, why don’t we know what happened?’ It’s like, we were gone and we were sworn to secrecy, we can’t say anything, legally, so that was the poopie part, where it was like, ‘Well, why doesn’t anybody tell us what’s happening?’ And then you’re forced to form your own opinion, or come up with your own theory as to what happened.”

Renee said this creates a really weird situation. Omega agrees.

“Of course! ‘Well, I’m more of a fan of the other, so here’s the way I’m going to create the story, so that it puts this person in the best possible light’ It might be that, chances are, it’s something else, or it might be a combination of various theories. And we might never get to speak about it.

But what’s important, is that nobody was seriously injured emerging from that, and I’m so thankful from that, and we’ve moved on with life. I’m completely fine, it doesn’t dictate what I do, what i say. I’m sure the bucks are in the same boat, i can’t speak to the other parties, hopefully they’re doing well. and i mean that. that’s it.”

Listen to Kenny Omega’s appearance on The Sessions:

Kenny Omega Watched The Batman To Improve His Wrestling Performance

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Young talents usually do many different things to try and improve their performance in the ring. This generally includes studying tapes of older generations and different styles from across the world. Kenny Omega, however, took a very different approach. When he felt the need to improve his storytelling, the former IWGP world champion found inspiration from the most unlikely of places.

The AEW star recently had an interview with Renee Paquette on Oral Sessions podcast. He talked about his start in wrestling and his rise to fame. Omega was asked what he did to improve his performance and he noted that he had always been athletic. The former world champion then revealed that to improve on his storytelling, he took inspiration from cartoons instead of old wrestling tapes:

“I was getting matches around 18 minutes to 25-ish. Then for the big ones that’s anywhere from 30 to 50 to an hour. But the main ones are like 20-ish. So I thought how can I study for this? How can I improve myself? Can I take nods from anything around me? I began to study weekly cartoons, specifically superhero cartoons.” said Kenny Omega, “Because an episode lasts about 21 minutes long. There’s a beginning, there’s a middle, there’s an end. The hero gets put into peril at some point. Every week there’s probably a new villain featured.

He continued: “For example, Batman cannot fight the Joker every week. It’s not always going to be that serious. There’s not always going to be that. ‘Oh my goodness, the world may end’ moment. Sometimes he has to fight the Riddler. Sometimes he has to fight Mr. Freeze or Clayface. How do you make all those instances, How do you make all of those altercations interesting? How do you make them feel like they mean something? How do you make them different from one another? Sometimes you can elicit other emotions. Even though you are supposed to be taken as this incredible superhero. Someone that’s larger than life. Someone who is supposed to be one of the best at doing what you do. So I have found that specifically Batman cartoons – Justice League, Yeah, they really helped a lot.”

More Originals From SEScoops:

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

Stevie Richards Thanks Fans After Recent Hospitalization

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WWE and ECW veteran Stevie Richards has thanked fans for their support, after recently disclosing he is dealing with several health issues.

In a message on Instagram last week, Richards shared a photo of himself wearing a medical gown and standing with the aid of a walker.

Richards explained that the last four weeks have been “something else” and his hopeful that his road to recovery starts as soon as possible.

The Update

In an update, Richards said he was incredibly grateful for the heart-felt messages and shows of support fans have sent his way since his previous post.

On Instagram, Richards wrote the following in the caption of a video.

The prayers have definitely been felt by us and we appreciate them so much. Please take a moment to pray for those who are in worse medical condition and are alone in the hospital. It’s breaks my heart to see those laying in a hospital bed without a hand to hold nor someone to lean on while in pain. #loveoneanother #helpothers #prayerstillworks #prayersup.”

It has been reported that Richards is dealing with back and spinal issues, brought on by his lengthy career in the ring.

In addition to WWE and ECW, Richards has also competed for TNA/Impact Wrestling, as well as several independent promotions.

Richards’ most recent match to date came in May 2019 as part of Beyond/WWR Wrestling, where he defeated Anthony Greene, who fans may know for his WWE run as August Grey.

Finn Balor Lays Out Challenge to Edge for WWE WrestleMania 39 Match

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Edge and Finn Balor will seemingly go one-on-one at WrestleMania 39 after the former Universal Champion issued a challenge this week.

Balor and Edge have been on opposing sides for over half a year now, after the Rated-R Superstar was ejected from the Judgment Day in mid-2022.

At Extreme Rules last October, Balor got an I-Quit match victory over Edge, who returned at the Royal Rumble last month to eliminate Balor.

WrestleMania 39

On last night’s Raw, Balor was interviewed backstage with the Judgment Day at his side and said he’s not done with Edge.

The first-ever Universal Champion issued the challenge to a match at WrestleMania, which Edge has yet to respond to.

It’s been reported that WWE planned on Edge Vs. Balor at the Royal Rumble but nixed the idea due to Edge’s commitments to the upcoming Percy Jackson series on Disney+.

WWE and Edge felt that with the Hall of Famer not being able to appear on Raw in the run-up to the Royal Rumble, the match would not have received proper booking.

It has been reported that the match in January was scheduled to take place inside Hell in a Cell, but there is no confirmation if this is the plan this time around.

The Judgment Day at WrestleMania

While Edge Vs. Balor has yet to be made official, it is expected to be confirmed for WrestleMania, which will be a busy night for the Judgment Day.

By winning the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match, Rhea Ripley earned herself a match at WrestleMania, and will challenge SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair this April.

Though it has not been confirmed, many expect Dominik Mysterio to face his father Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania 39.

Trish Stratus Returns To Help Lita And Becky Lynch Win Women’s Tag Titles

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Trish Stratus is back and she is already causing waves in the WWE world.

WWE had announced that Lita and Becky Lynch will be teaming up to challenge Damage CTRL for the Women’s Tag Team Titles on this week’s episode of Raw.

This came after Lita made her return to the WWE programming recently and helped The Man win a cage match against Bayley.

The bout was the main event of this week’s episode of the red-branded show, which also featured a Cody Rhodes match and the announcement of WrestleMania 39 host.

The tag champs were up to their usual shenanigans during this bout. At one point Bayley used one of the title belts to distract the referee and pulled Lita from the apron to stop her from tagging in.

Bayley continued distracting the challengers. This was until Trish Stratus made her surprise return to WWE TV and laid out the Damage CTRL leader.

This allowed the team of Becky Lynch and Lita to get the upper hand. The ending of the bout saw Becky locking Dakota Kai in Dis-Arm-Her on the ring apron.

The wrestling legend then delivered a Lita-sault to IYO SKY and pinned the young star to win the Women’s Tag Team Championships.

WrestleMania 39 Host Revealed On Raw

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The Miz will be hosting WrestleMania 39.

The A-Lister hosted The Miz TV segment on this week’s episode of Raw. During the show he revealed that he has been chosen to host the Show of Shows this year.

However, before he could celebrate the announcement, the former world champion was interrupted by Seth Rollins. The Visionary asked to be connected to Logan Paul.

When Rollins was refused, he attacked The Miz. The Architect then used Miz’s phone to call Paul and challenged the YouTube star to confront him next week.

WrestleMania 39 Match Card

A total of 4 matches have officially been confirmed so far for WrestleMania this year. Here is the updated match card for the show:

  • Undisputed WWE Universal Championship Match: Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns
  • SmackDown Women’s Championship Match: Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair
  • Raw Women’s Championship Match: Asuka vs. Bianca Belair
  • Singles Match: Brock Lesnar vs. Omos

Some of the rumored matches for the show include Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn vs The Usos, John Cena vs. Austin Theory, Logan Paul vs Seth Rollins and more.

WWE WrestleMania 39 will be taking place from the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California on April 1 & 2.

Cody Rhodes Going to SmackDown for Roman Reigns

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Ever since Cody Rhodes won the Royal Rumble, Roman Reigns has been dodging him. Although he’s acknowledged him in a promo, Reigns has sent “The Wise Man” Paul Heyman on his behalf.

Rhodes has even said he was open to the possibility of adding Sami Zayn to their match at WrestleMania 39. However, WWE has reportedly been concerned about Zayn being so over with the fans and that it might hurt Rhodes leading into his match with Reigns.

Cody Rhodes Going to Reigns

Paul Heyman:Cody Rhodes
Via BT Sports

After defeating Chad Gable, Rhodes looked in the camera to address Reigns directly.

“He is on SmackDown this Friday and I am ecstatic that Roman Reigns is on SmackDown this Friday because I’ll be there too.”

WWE is promoting Rhodes as “being in the same building” as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Do you think Reigns and Rhodes will actually come face to face on Friday? Or do you think Heyman will prevent it?

Brock Lesnar vs. Omos Made Official for WWE WrestleMania 39

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Brock Lesnar will indeed be wrestling Omos at the biggest event of the year for WWE, WrestleMania 39. 

On last week’s episode of WWE Raw, there was a segment where Omos and MVP laid the challenge out for ‘The Nigerian Giant’ to face “The Beast.” On this week’s show, they invited Lesnar to appear to answer the challenge, and he did when he showed up at MVP’s Lounge. 

They traded some words before MVP sold Lesnar on a match with Omos. They had a drink to celebrate the match being made official, but MVP accidentally spit moonshine in Lesnar’s face. Lesnar laid out MVP with an F5 before leaving the ring. 

WWE presents the WrestleMania 39 premium live event on April 1 and 2, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, CA that will air on Peacock. WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming weeks. Here is the updated card:

Updated WWE WrestleMania 39 Card

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes

WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley

WWE Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair vs. Asuka

Brock Lesnar vs. Omos

WWE RAW Results (2/27): Becky Lynch and Lita Get Help From Trish Stratus to Become New Women’s Tag Team Champions

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WWE‘s latest edition of Monday Night RAW went down on (2/27/23) from the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan! Becky Lynch and Lita are the NEW WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions after defeating IYO SKY and Dakota Kai of Damage CTRL with some assistance from Trish Stratus!

Live Coverage

The show begins and we see a video package highlighting the issues between The Bloodline and Sami Zayn. We see the events that occurred on this past Friday’s edition of SmackDown, where Jimmy Uso and Sami Zayn brawled while Jey Uso decided to not get involved.

We then head to the arena where Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa make their way down to the ring. Jimmy says he’s seen the talk online and he’s seen everyone say that The Bloodline is falling apart but that’s not true because all families have disagreements. Jimmy says if you come for one member of The Bloodline, you come for the entire Bloodline. Jimmy runs down all of The Bloodline’s victims thus far, most recently, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn. Jimmy says the same will happen to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 39 where Roman Reigns will not ‘get one’ over on The Tribal Chief. Jimmy says Roman will be at SmackDown on Friday night but tonight, he and Solo are ready to remind everyone who runs RAW. The Street Profits’ music hits and out come Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins.

Angelo makes fun of Sikoa not wearing shoes and Montez makes fun of Jey not being there with Jimmy. Montez says if he were the glue of The Bloodline like Jey, he’d be tired of The Bloodline too. Montez says Jimmy can’t run RAW because he can’t even run his own family. The Profits say they want the smoke and the brawl is on! Montez and Angelo stand tall and it’s announced that these four competitors will throw down in tag team action after the break!

Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) vs. Jimmy Uso & Solo Sikoa

Jimmy and Angelo start this one off. Jimmy trips Angelo to the mat and makes a quick tag to Solo. The youngest member of The Bloodline tosses Angelo to the corner but he gets slammed by Angelo, who makes the tag to Montez. The Profits nail Solo with a double-team move but Solo launches Montez to the opposite corner and makes the tag to Jimmy, who plants Ford and applies a head-lock. Montez powers out and makes the tag to Angelo, who sends Jimmy to the corner and crushes him with a corner splash. Uso grounds Angelo with a head-lock and makes the tag to Solo, who wallops Dawkins with a massive lariat as we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and Solo has Angelo down in the corner. Solo goes for a corner splash but Angelo dives out and drills Solo with a flying elbow. Solo and Angelo make tags to Montez and Jimmy, respectively. Montez slams Jimmy and nails him with a standing moonsault and goes for the cover but Jimmy kicks out. Montez nails Solo with a kick on the apron, goes up top, and looks for his patented splash, Jimmy stands up, but Montez crushes him with a diving cross-body and goes for the cover but Jimmy lifts the shoulders after a two-count! Montez plants Jimmy with a spine-buster and makes the tag to Angelo. The Profits go for a double-team move but Solo knocks Ford off the top rope, makes the self-tag on Jimmy, and wallops Angelo with the Samoan Spike for the 1-2-3!

Winners – Jimmy Uso & Solo Sikoa

After the match, Jimmy and Solo continue the attack on the Profits. Solo grabs a steel chair and sets it up on Dawkins in the corner but Kevin Owens comes out of nowhere and takes out both Solo and Jimmy! Kevin escapes before The Bloodline can grab him and Jimmy and Solo do not look happy back inside of the ring.

Our commentary team of Corey Graves and Kevin Patrick announce that MVP will host the VIP Lounge alongside Omos, who will be looking for Brock Lesnar to respond to Omos’ WrestleMania 39 challenge. The VIP Lounge will go down after the break.

Back from the break and Brock Lesnar’s music hits and the ‘Beast Incarnate’ is wasting no time and not even waiting for MVP and Omos. Brock lays back on one of the couches and out comes MVP, who was set to host the ‘VIP Lounge’. MVP says when he invited Brock to RAW and the ‘VIP Lounge’ this isn’t exactly how he envisioned it. Brock sarcastically apologizes for being early and invites MVP into the ring but MVP says he’s OK just talking from a distance. Brock says he has no beef with MVP and he’s just about business. The crowd chants ‘Suplex City!’ and MVP tells them to stop. Brock says he’s there on business and he’s here to listen to MVP and be a guest on the ‘beautiful’ set of the ‘VIP Lounge’. MVP asks Brock if it’s OK if he comes in the ring and asks Brock to assure him that he won’t be suplexed. Brock gives the OK and MVP says he knows Brock is a man of his word and gets in the ring before having a seat on the opposite couch from Brock. MVP looks nervous and Brock says he’s open to the idea of him fighting Omos but he needs MVP to sell him on the idea. MVP says Brock is the ‘Beast Incarnate’ and if Brock gets his hands on somebody, it’s all over for them. MVP says Brock couldn’t have his way with Bobby Lashley at Elimination Chamber and he certainly wouldn’t be able to do anything to Omos because Omos isn’t an ordinary man. MVP says the beast can destroy any man but the giant will subdue and conquer the beast.

MVP says he can take almost anyone he wants to ‘Suplex City’ but he wouldn’t be able to do that to Omos. Brock says he got goosebumps from that sales pitch from MVP and high fives him. Brock says the pitch was ‘damn good’ and says he accepts the challenge. Brock says not only does he accept the challenge but suggests that they shake hands on the deal and give a toast to Brock Lesnar vs. Omos at WrestleMania. Brock says it’ll be Brock Lesnar vs. Omos with MVP in his corner at WrestleMania 39. Brock says he’s just a simple farmer and he grows the ‘good stuff’ and they’re gonna drink the ‘good stuff’. Lesnar has a flask in his pocket and takes a sip, MVP says he only wants champagne but Lesnar shoves the flask at MVP and says MVP better not make him drink alone. MVP takes a sip from the flask and Brock says it’s called ‘white lightning’. MVP accidentally spits the drink in Brock’s face and MVP looks a nervous wreck. MVP whips down Brock and hands him a handkerchief but Lesnar plants MVP with an F-5.

We then see Cathy Kelley backstage, who introduces Becky Lynch and Lita. The WWE Hall of Famer says it was always a dream of hers for there to be Women’s Tag Titles and even though her best days are behind her, she still wants some gold. Becky says she doesn’t usually play well with others but there’s nobody she’d rather capture the WWE Women’s Tag Titles with than Lita. Becky and Lita exit and we see Cody Rhodes walking through the backstage area and Cody will face Chad Gable after the break.

Cody Rhodes vs. Chad Gable (with Otis)

Rhodes sends Gable to the corner to start. Rhodes rolls Gable up but Gable rolls out and looks for the ankle lock but Rhodes kicks him face-first into the corner. Rhodes puts Gable on the top turnbuckle and plants Gable with a top rope DDT. Gable rolls to the outside to recover and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Gable is working over Rhodes’ left leg. Gable goes up top and looks for a diving headbutt but Rhodes rolls out of the way and drills Gable with a shoulder block. Rhodes plants Gable with a power-slam and the Disaster Kick before going for the cover but Gable kicks out. Rhodes locks in the figure four leg-lock but Gable drags himself to the ropes and grabs the bottom rope to force the referee to break up the hold. Rhodes springboards off the middle rope and looks for the Cody Cutter but Gable catches Rhodes and plants him with a German suplex. Gable looks for the backslide but turns it into a DDT, then goes up top, and drills Rhodes with a moonsault and goes for the cover but Rhodes lifts the shoulders at two-and-a-half!

Gable nails Rhodes with a chop to the chest, Rhodes does the same, Gable does once more, as does Rhodes, and Rhodes dumps Gable to the outside. Rhodes dives through the middle ropes and cracks Gable with an outside dive and Otis is distracted at ringside by Maxine Dupri. Rhodes directs Otis’ attention back to Dupri, Otis tries to attack Rhodes but ‘The American Nightmare’ sends Otis over the barricade. Rhodes rushes back into the ring and plants Gable with the Cody Cutter followed by the Cross Rhodes for the 1-2-3!

Winner – Cody Rhodes

After the match, Cody grabs a microphone and says we’re just 33 days away from WrestleMania. Cody says he’s yet to stand in the same ring as his opponent for WrestleMania, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Cody says he knows Roman will be at SmackDown this Friday night and that excites him…because he will be too! Cody exits and we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and we see Rhea Ripley, Finn Balor, Damian Priest, and Dominik Mysterio of The Judgment Day backstage. Dominik calls out his father Rey once again, Rhea says she’s going to take out Charlotte Flair once and for all at WrestleMania, and Finn makes a challenge to Edge for WrestleMania.

We then see Maxine Dupri, Mace, and Mansoor backstage. The trio approach Otis and Maxine says if Otis can find a match tonight, they’ll be in his corner, because they want to take a closer look at him.

Asuka then makes her way down to the ring and she’ll face Carmella after the break.

Asuka vs. Carmella

Asuka unloads a bevy of shots on Carmella right as the bell sounds. Asuka drops a heavy kick on the back of Carmella and looks for the ankle lock. Carmella kicks Asuka back and lands a few back elbows onto a cornered Asuka. Carmella nails Asuka with a boot to the face and hits Asuka with a bronco buster before going for the cover but Asuka kicks out. Asuka nails Carmella with a super-kick and goes for a cover of her own but Carmella lifts the shoulders. Asuka rushes at Carmella but Carmella ducks under the kick and Asuka goes spilling to the outside. Carmella drills Asuka with a super-kick on the outside and we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and Carmella has control back in the middle of the ring. Asuka cracks Carmella with a bunch of shots and drills Carmella with a sliding knee as Carmella was trying to retreat to the outside. Asuka goes up top and looks for a missile drop-kick but Carmella evades and nails Asuka with a super-kick and goes for the cover but Asuka kicks out. Asuka cradles Carmella but Carmella kicks out. A series of roll-ups ensue and Asuka locks in the arm-bar out of nowhere and Carmella has no choice but to tap out!

Winner – Asuka

After the match, Asuka screams in Japanese and calls out Bianca Belair. The RAW Women’s Champion wastes no time in making her way out and rushes the ring. Bianca says she doesn’t know what Asuka said but says she didn’t like her tone. Bianca says she’s here to remind Asuka that she’s the EST. of WWE and you can’t spell WrestleMania without EST. Carmella comes from behind and shoves Asuka into Bianca before exiting.

Piper Niven makes her way down to the ring and she’ll face Candice LeRae after the break.

Candice LeRae (with Nikki Cross) vs. Piper Niven

Candice rolls Piper up but Piper kicks out. Piper plants Candice with a slam then a senton and goes for the cover but Candice kick out. Piper applies a sleeper hold and fires Candice face-first into the corner. Candice trips Piper into the middle turnbuckle then goes up top but Piper dumps her to the outside. Piper tosses Candice back into the ring and launches Nikki Cross into the barricade. Candice rolls Piper up and gets the 1-2-3 after the distraction!

Winner – Candice LeRae

We then see Johnny Gargano backstage with Byron Saxton. Rhea Ripley, Damian Priest, Finn Balor, and Dominik Mysterio of The Judgment Day interrupt. Damian calls out Johnny and Finn says Otis is going to crush him tonight and if he doesn’t, he’ll finish the job himself. Johnny tells Finn that he’ll see him next week.

The Miz makes his way down to the ring and he’ll host ‘Miz TV’ after the break.

Back from the break and The Miz welcomes us to ‘Miz TV’. Miz talks about how great his wife Maryse is and says the anniversary gift that she gave him last week is the best gift he’s ever received in his life. Miz announces that he’ll host WrestleMania 39. Seth Rollins’ music hits and out comes the former Universal Champion. The crowd is singing Rollins’ theme song and Miz tells everyone to shutup. Rollins says he’s only here to congratulate Miz. Rollins says the only reason he attacked Miz was because he was being a jerk. Rollins asks Miz to call Logan Paul for him and Miz takes out his phone but declines to do so. Rollins drills Miz with a super-kick and grabs Miz’s phone. Rollins puts Miz’s phone up to Miz’s face to unlock it and he FaceTimes Logan Paul. Logan answers and Rollins asks Logan how his brother Jake Paul is doing after losing his boxing match last night. Rollins tells Logan to show up on RAW next week and Logan accepts. Rollins says ‘bye bye bitch’ and hangs up on Logan before he starts dancing and leading the crowd in a sing-along to his theme song. Miz tries to crawl to his phone but Rollins stomps him and makes his exit.

Bobby Lashley vs. Elias

Elias nails Lashley with a splash but Lashley slams him right down to the mat. Lashley fires Elias to the outside and Rick Boogs is watching backstage and writing down notes. Lashley sends Elias into the barricade and back into the ring, where he plants Elias with a flatliner and a spear before sitching in the ‘Hurt Lock’ and Elias goes out cold!

Winner – Bobby Lashley

After the match, Lashley grabs a microphone and says he’s in a bad mood. Lashley says he had Brock Lesnar beaten at Elimination Chamber before Lesnar took the coward’s way out. Lashley says he’s done playing games and if Bray Wyatt doesn’t keep his name out of his mouth, he’s going to hurt him. Lashley makes his way out but Bray Wyatt appears on the big screen. We see Bray’s old ‘Muscle Man Dance’ video and the current iteration of Wyatt appears on the screen and tells Lashley tor un.

We then see Chelsea Green backstage in Adam Pearce’s office. Green is still complaining about being sent to the wrong airport last week and Carmella comes in but Pearce leaves after saying he has a phone call. Carmella and Green both complain about Pearce and we head to a commercial break.

Otis (with Maxine Dupri, Mace, and Mansoor) vs. Johnny Gargano

Otis wallops Gargano with a lariat and a standing splash. Gargano kicks Otis back and drills him with a back elbow. Gargano super-kicks Otis out of the ring and dives over the top rope but Otis catches him and fires him into the announce table. Mace grabs Gargano but Dexter Lumis appears in the crowd and chokes Mace. Mansoor attacks Lumis but he’s quicky dispatched, Gargano nails Otis with a kick, a DDT on the apron, and plants Otis with a floating DDT over the top rope back into the ring for the 1-2-3!

Winner – Johnny Gargano

Damage CTRL (IYO SKY & Dakota Kai) (with Bayley) (C) vs. Becky Lynch & Lita — WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship

Lynch and SKY start this one off. Lynch makes a quick tag to Lita as SKY tags in Kai. Lita slams Kai and Kai makes the tag right back out to SKY. Lita tags in Lynch, who scoops and slams SKY and goes for the cover but SKY kicks out. Lynch and Lita nail both champions with some double-team offense and Lita goes up top for her patented moonsault but SKY slides to the outside. Becky leaps off the apron and takes out both members of Damage CTRL and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and everyone’s brawling. SKY nails Lynch with a springboard moonsault on the outside and tosses Lynch back into the ring and goes for the cover but Lynch kicks out.

SKY makes the tag to Kai but SKY cracks Lynch with a super-kick on her way out, Kai makes the cover, but Lynch lifts the shoulders after a two-count. Kai slams Lynch and goes for another cover but Lynch kicks out once more. Lynch knocks SKY off the apron and trips Kai to the mat to try and create space to make the tag to Lita but Bayley trips Lita off the apron and Kai makes the tag to SKY. Damage CTRL plant Becky with a double slam and SKY goes for the cover but Lynch kicks out at two-and-a-half! Trish Stratus’ music hits and the WWE Hall of Famer rushes the ring and takes out Bayley at ringside! Lita and Stratus embrace, SKY makes the tag to Kai, and Lynch tags in Lita. SKY tosses Lita into the ropes but Lita plants her with a hurricanrana and an STO before going for the cover but SKY kicks out. Lita goes up top but SKY trips her back down to the mat and goes up top herself but she misses the moonsault. Lita plants SKY with the Twist of Fate and goes up top, Bayley gets on the apron but Stratus dispatches of Bayley. Kai tries to trip Lita but Becky holds Kai down and locks in the Disarm Her, Lita lands the moonsault on SKY and gets the 1-2-3! New champions!

Winners – Becky Lynch and Lita (NEW WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions)

After the match, Lynch, Lita, and Stratus all celebrate in the ring as the show goes off-the-air!

AEW Revolution Betting Odds

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The betting odds have been released for the AEW Revolution pay-per-view event ahead of the show this Sunday night from the Chase Center in San Francisco, California.

So far, five normal AEW titles are on the line, including the AEW Tag Team Title bout pitting champions The Gunn Club vs. The Acclaimed vs. Jeff Jarrett & Jay Lethal vs. a tag team that will be decided on Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite. 

As of this writing, the only title expected to change hands is Wardlow being favored to win the TNT Title from Samoa Joe. 

AEW Revolution Odds

As a reminder, we will provide the show coverage this Sunday. The favorites to win are listed as –, while the underdogs are listed with +. Here are the final betting odds, courtesy of BetOnline:

AEW World Champion MJF -5000 (1/50) vs. Bryan Danielson +900 (9/1) 60-Minute Iron Man Match

AEW Women’s Champion Jamie Hayter (c) -1000 (1/10) vs. Ruby Soho +350 (7/2) vs. Saraya +450 (9/2)

TNT Champion Wardlow -500 (1/5) vs. Samoa Joe (c) +300 (3/1)

AEW World Trios Champions The Elite -220 (5/11) vs. House of Black +155 (31/20)

“Hangman” Adam Page -600 (1/6) vs. Jon Moxley +350 (7/2) – Texas Death Match

Ricky Starks -400 (1/4) vs. Chris Jericho +250 (5/2)

AEW Performer Expected to Leave This Summer

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Vickie Guerrero will be leaving AEW in a few months. 

Guerrero made her promotional debut as a guest commentator in December 2019 on an episode of Dark. She was later revealed as Nyla Rose’s manager at Fight for the Fallen the following summer. 

Behind the scenes, Guerrero also worked with the AEW Heels community and recently appeared on the AEW Unrestricted podcast with Aubrey Edwards and Amanda Huber to discuss the project. 

AEW later paired Vickie with Nyla Rose and Marina Shafir as their manager. As recently as last week, she was in their corner when they teamed Diamante on the Dark: Elevation taping before Dynamite. The bout will air on this week’s edition of the show. 

The Report

Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select reported today that Guerrero and All Elite Wrestling have mutually decided not to renew her contract when it expires this July.  This comes after she has been teasing “a new journey” on social media.

Outside of the ring in 2019, Guerrero graduated from Herzing University with a Bachelor of Science in healthcare administration. While with WWE, she was General Manager of SmackDown from 2007 to 2011 and Raw from 2011 to 2013 before leaving in 2014. 

https://twitter.com/VickieGuerrero/status/1628861999445684229
https://twitter.com/VickieGuerrero/status/1626562220711632898

CM Punk to Fan: ‘I’ll Wrestle Again Just to Upset You, You’ll Watch No Matter Where’

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CM Punk has given an interesting response to a fan on Instagram following the recent comments made by Mark Henry. 

Punk hasn’t wrestled since AEW All Out 2022, when he won the AEW World Title from Jon Moxley, but suffered an injury that led to him getting surgery and being sidelined ever since, in addition to the drama that played out after the show. 

During the post-event press conference, the former AEW World Champion ripped Colt Cabana, Hangman Page, and others. He later got into an altercation with The Elite (Kenny Omega & The Young Bucks), leading to him being suspended. 

Where It Started

Henry stated on Busted Open Radio today that he doesn’t view Punk as a ‘cancer’ to the locker room, considers himself and Punk to be outsiders in AEW, and thinks AEW should bring back Punk.

Punk responded to a fan on Instagram who wrote, “Keep CM Punk retired.” Punk replied to the comment, “you liked your own comment. Bold. I’ll wrestle again just to upset you. You’ll watch no matter where.”

https://twitter.com/redheadwriter/status/1630312972152086528

Punk’s future with AEW remains unknown, but he’s expected to be medically cleared in the next few months. 

Mark Henry: CM Punk Is Not a Cancer to Wrestling

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Is CM Punk truly a cancer to the wrestling industry, as some have claimed?

Punk has certainly been a controversial figure in recent months, following his inflammatory comments after last September’s AEW All Out Pay-Per-View.

It was these comments, as well as the backstage fight, that resulted in Punk’s second reign as AEW World Champion coming to a swift and unceremonial end.

Not a Cancer

After the infamous Pay-Per-View, Chris Jericho branded Punk a “cancer” and the same term was used by WWE’s Seth Rollins last month during a Royal Rumble week interview.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Mark Henry discussed Punk, and said that while he may rub some people the wrong way, that’s only because Punk is passionate about his craft.

“He’s not a cancer. He’s opinionated, but he’s also a teacher and supporter. I’ve seen him do stuff he didn’t have to do. He just did it because he loved the business and he wanted to make that wrestler better.”

Mark Henry.

Punk remains the only person suspended after AEW All Out 2022 to still be suspended at this time.

Others who have spoken favorably of Punk following All Out include FTR’s Dax Harwood and AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill.

Bringing Punk Back

CM Punk’s arrival in AEW saw the company’s ratings rise dramatically, and many believe that only by bringing Punk back can the company reach those heights again.

While Punk has some allies backstage, it has been reported that some top names have refused to work with the former World Champion if he is brought back.

Punk is currently healing from a torn triceps injury suffered at All Out, but should be 100% within two months.

h/t – Wrestling Inc

Charlotte Flair Praises Recent Performances Of WWE NXT Star

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“The Queen” has spoken.

In 33 days, Charlotte Flair will put her SmackDown Women’s Championship on the line against Rhea Ripley at WrestleMania. Before her meeting with “The Eradicator” though, Flair continues to defend her title amidst the company’s tour of live events.

Through WWE’s most recent loop this past weekend, Flair raised up her championship again, but this time, it was in a fatal four-way. On Saturday, Flair made her way to Champaign, Illinois to battle Liv Morgan, Sonya Deville, and NXT Superstar Zoey Stark. In recent weeks, Flair and Deville sparked an on-screen rivalry, as Deville fell short in two previous attempts at capturing the title.

Last year, Liv Morgan held the SmackDown Women’s Championship for three months after cash-in at Money in the Bank to dethrone Ronda Rousey. For Zoey Stark, though, this marked her first loop of main roster live events.

“The Queen” evidently retained her title in Champaign, and the following night in Rockford, but not without valiant efforts from her competition. Following the double dose of four-way matches, Flair shared her praise for Stark.

“[Zoey Stark] killed it this weekend! Great job woman!” she wrote via Twitter.

Road To WrestleMania

Charlotte Flair WWE
(via WWE)

As it appears Stark may soon make way up to the main roster, Charlotte Flair herself has established herself as a history maker in the women’s division. Reigning as a 14-Time World Champion at this point, Flair gears up for a WrestleMania 36 rematch in a few weeks.

On the latest edition of SmackDown, Flair called out her WrestleMania 39 opponent, Rhea Ripley. Instead, she was met by Rhea’s ally, Dominik Mysterio. The two traded some fierce words before “Mami” finally emerged to stand face-to-face with Flair. In five weeks, Ripley looks to redeem herself after Flair unseated her for the NXT Women’s Championship three years ago at “The Show of Shows.”

Roman Reigns vs. Sami Zayn Rematch Announced

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WWE is running back Roman Reigns vs. Sami Zayn following their match at the Elimination Chamber PLE. 

The two stars are slated to meet in the main event of an untelevised house show. On Monday, it was confirmed by the Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto that Reigns will defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Zayn at the show this Saturday as part of WWE’s Road to WrestleMania live event tour.

Originally, it was advertised as a tag team match seeing Reigns team with Solo Sikoa against Zayn & Kevin Owens for the event. However, a change was made. 

The First Match

At the Elimination Chamber in Montreal earlier this month, Reigns retained his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Zayn. Post-match, Owens saved Zayn from a Bloodline. 

Since then, Zayn has tried to convince Owens to work together to dismantle The Bloodline, but Owens continues to reject him. 

It’s believed that Zayn and Owens will challenge The Usos for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles at WrestleMania 39. Jey Uso is currently conflicted in storyline between siding with Zayn or staying loyal to his family. 

Edge Reflects On The Generations Of Legends He’s Worked With Throughout His WWE Career

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Upon entering WWE in the late 1990s, a young Edge received the opportunity to tango with some of wrestling’s most illustrious figures.

Under contract, “The Rated R Superstar” has worked through four different eras, including the Attitude Era, Ruthless Aggression, and the PG era. After his surprise return to the sport in 2020, Edge integrated himself into the “New Era,” and continues to run strong today.

Before he made his own mark as a legend, though, the WWE Hall of Famer worked with several other legends during his initial run in WWE. Reflecting on his career, Edge recalled some of the talent who helped shape him during his earlier days.

“It’s not lost on me the amount of talent I’ve had the opportunity to face,” he wrote via Twitter. “Perfect, Owen, Martel, Bad News, Hacksaw, Road Warriors, Funk, Lawler, Flair, Bulldog, Landell, Bossman, Earthquake, Boogy Woogy, Vader just to name a few, let alone the other 2 generations. Blows my mind.”

Legends Meet A Future Legend

Edge Smackdown

Most of the WWE Superstars referenced by Edge did battle with him while Edge was still in his 20s. In early 2002, Edge met the late WWE Hall of Famer Mr. Perfect for the first and only time on Sunday Night Heat, winning the bout by disqualification.

Other notable opponents include Edge’s numerous matches involving fellow Canadian, Owen Hart. In September 1998, a 24-year-old Edge battled Hart at WWE’s In Your House 24: Breakdown, before the two met a few months later in tag team competition.

Of those mentioned, Ric Flair encountered Edge over fifty times throughout their careers in various tag team matches, battle royals, and singles competitions. Within a one-on-one capacity, the two first dueled in May 2004, as Edge gained the victory over “The Nature Boy.”

Bayley Reveals Additional Stars She Wanted In Damage CTRL

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If it were up to Bayley, there would be even more members of Damage CTRL right now.

Since aligning at SummerSlam 2022, the trio of Bayley, Dakota Kai, and IYO SKY have established themselves as major players in the women’s locker room. Kai and SKY have dominated the women’s tag team division with two title reigns, while Bayley has tackled multiple singles stars, including Becky Lynch and RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair. As it turns out, though, Bayley — the leader of the group — wanted some additional figures to join her in the formation of the faction.

In a new interview with BT Sport’s Ariel Helwani, Bayley revealed that she pitched the group concept “a couple years” before it finally panned out.

“[The idea] had a different group of people as the time went on,” she said. “Peyton Royce was someone that I really wanted in there. Tegan Nox was someone that I wanted in there. There were a lot of people that it just kind of changed throughout time and as people left the company and things like that, but Dakota was always — she’s one of the OG’s that I always envisioned in this group.”

Planting The Seeds

WWE Superstar Bayley
(WWE)

Bayley later explained that she brought the idea up to Paul “Triple H” Levesque a few WrestleMania’s ago, but after receiving feedback, she made some tweaks. And after trading “a million” different name ideas with creative, “The Role Model” said they couldn’t get on the same page. One of the stable names she pitched was called “The Now.”

“To me, I didn’t care about the championships I won in the past, I don’t care about what happens next, these girls right here and what we’re about to do, the present is all that matters. So, ‘The Now’ was my first idea.”

Due to legal matters, however, that name didn’t work out, but eventually, they landed on Damage CTRL. “To me, Damage CTRL is just kind of showing the world how much more there is to offer than what you just see on TV every week,” Bayley said.

WWE Superstars Unhappy With Fewer WrestleMania Spots On “Smaller” Card (Report)

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This year’s WrestleMania will feature a smaller card, leaving some frustrated Superstars off the biggest show of the year, it has been claimed.

WrestleMania 39 will take place on April 1, and April 2, in Inglewood, California, marking the fourth two-night WrestleMania in a row.

Night Two of the Showcase of the Immortals will be headlined by Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns defending against Cody Rhodes.

Smaller Card

WrestleMania is WWE’s biggest event of the year, so it is expected that it is the longest and most stacked show of the year.

For single-night events, WrestleMania 35 (2019) takes the record for the longest WWE event in history, clocking in at five hours and 20 minutes (or over seven hours if you watch the pre-show.)

WrestlingNews.co was informed that WWE will be using a smaller card as compared to previous years, and this is an edict from WWE’s Head of Creative/Talent Relations Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque.

It is reported that there will not be a WrestleMania Battle Royal at WrestleMania, which in years past allowed a lot of Superstars the chance to compete at the biggest show of the year.

In more recent years, WWE has kept the men’s Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal for the SmackDown before WrestleMania.

At this time, three matches have been announced by WWE, though this will of course change.

Unhappy

With a smaller card comes fewer spots for talent to appear on the show, which Wrestling News was informed has led to “some unhappiness” backstage.

There is also unhappiness about some of the slots on the show being saved for part-timers, though the report did not state who.

We do know that Brock Lesnar will answer Omos’ challenge for WrestleMania 39 on tonight’s Raw, and a match between Edge and Finn Balor is expected.

There have also been reports that Trish Stratus and Lita will team with Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 39 to face Damage CTRL.

John Cena is expected to face United States Champion Austin Theory this April, though the match has yet to be confirmed by WWE.