Home Blog Page 464

Jade Cargill Thinks it’s Time to Start Having Feuds with Top AEW Stars

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Jade Cargill has been protected and pushed as a top star in AEW since signing with the promotion in 2020, where she was used in a top angle right out of the gate. 

She made her in-ring debut by teaming with NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal in a win over Cody Rhodes and Red Velvet on an episode of AEW Dynamite in March 2021. 

Since that match, she has gone on a lengthy winning streak and booked strongly as the TBS Champion, the only champion in the history of the title after she beat Ruby Soho in 2022. 

However, she has yet to face any top-tier AEW talent, something she is looking to change. Cargill expressed her interest in wrestling for the AEW Women’s Title while speaking with Liam Crowley of ComicBook.com.

Bigger Goals

“I’m just going to give these ladies some time before I want to go for the big belt. That’s something that I want to accomplish. I want to go for the main belt, I know that’s for sure.”

Jade also shared her desire to mix it up with stars such as Britt Baker, Saraya, and Toni Storm.

“I wouldn’t say so soon because right now I’m just focused on getting reps and getting better. Having longer matches, better feuds, and actual storylines. However, I believe it’s time for me to start having storylines with a Britt Baker, or Jamie Hayter, or a Saraya, or Toni Storm and working those storylines. I know I can do it. I have the charisma to do it. If you stand me next to any of these ladies, the work, the look and the aura of who I am speaks for itself.”

Backstage Reaction to Cody Rhodes and Paul Heyman WWE Raw Segment

Andrew Ravens
-
0

This week’s episode of WWE Raw featured a heavily praised segment between Cody Rhodes and Paul Heyman that saw them both get emotional. 

The promo segment was done to promote further Cody Rhodes challenging  Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39.

Fightful Select had details on the backstage reaction to the promo that was said to have benefitted from looser scripting under Triple H compared to what he had been under Vince McMahon. 

Those close to Heyman stated that he was surprised by Rhodes mentioning Dusty Rhodes getting booked by ECW in 2000 and that the family needed those bookings. People close to Cody stated they weren’t sure whether Heyman had been told how important the ECW bookings were to the Rhodes family in general.

The Reaction

Heyman wrote his part of the promo, while Cody wrote his.  Those involved with the segment were very pleased with it, and WWE officials were thrilled with the content and the reactions from fans. 

One WWE higher-up source told Fightful: “Cody Rhodes is a star, and Paul Heyman is a starmaker. They were in a difficult position, and made something that seemed like a manufactured booking decision become a personal, WrestleMania main event if it ends up going that direction.”

That Cody Rhodes Promo, AEW’s Ups and Downs This Week

Ryan Droste
-
0

This week on Top Rope Nation, the crew discusses a wild week in both WWE and AEW. Primary topics on the show include Cody Rhodes’ much-talked about promo from WWE Raw, a spectacular edition of AEW Dynamite (with one major flaw), and a mailbag segment to close things out.

Each week, the video version of Top Rope Nation streams live to the SEScoops YouTube channel. You can join the live streams by subscribing to the channel and turning on notifications so you never miss a live broadcast. This will include a regular weekly edition of Top Rope Nation (typically Thursday nights), as well as reviews of all major WWE and AEW PLE/PPV shows.

On episode 284 this week, Ryan and Justin get into talking about Cody Rhodes’ prospects as a possible long-term babyface champion following WrestleMania. Plus, a discussion on what worked and didn’t work on Dynamite, as well as the plans for AEW Revolution. The mailbag segment includes questions on the best wrestling stage designs in history, guilty pleasures as a wrestling fan, AEW house shows, and much more.

You can watch the show via the embedded YouTube video at the top of this page. Additionally, you can listen to the audio-only podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever podcasts are found. You will also find an embedded audio player below.

Former WWE Star Offered Full-Time Deal by AEW

Andrew Ravens
-
0

EJ Nduka has some options regarding what he wants to do with his wrestling career. 

The former WWE star worked the AEW Dark tapings on January 28 in Orlando, Florida, where he made his debut for the promotion. His loss to Konosuke Takeshita aired this week on Dark. 

In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that Nduka was offered a full-time AEW contract after the match. As of this writing, there is no word yet on if Nduka has signed the contract. 

MLW aired his match with World Heavyweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone in a Last Man Standing main event for the MLW Underground premiere on REELZ.

Free Agency

His contract expired last month, but he went forward with finishing up with the promotion at the February 4th tapings. He is still one-half of the MLW World Tag Team Champions with Calvin Tankman. Their match with Juicy Finau and Lance Anoa’i of The Samoan SWAT Team is slated to air soon.

According to multiple reports, Nduka also has interest from MLW, WWE, and those in Japan. MLW officials have praised EJ in the past, while the former WWE star previously credited the promotion for giving him a chance when he needed it. 

The former NXT star was let go in May 2021 after having been with the company since 2019. He made his MLW debut the following month when his non-compete clause expired. 

New Japan Star Confirmed For Impact Wrestling Event

J. Cunningham
-
0

Impact Wrestling’s upcoming No Surrender event recently had another star added to its line-up.

Former IWGP US Champion KENTA has been confirmed for the show. The colorful heel will tag with fellow Bullet Clubbers Chris Bey and Ace Austin to take on KUSHIDA, Chris Sabin, and Alex Shelley.

Sabin and Shelley, the Motor City Machine Guns, have both teamed with KUSHIDA in NJPW in the past. As the Time Splitters, the former 6-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion and Shelley were a major act in New Japan’s junior tag team division.

Since joining New Japan back in 2019, KENTA has found new life as a despicable but often funny heel act. Betraying longtime pal Katsuyori Shibata to join the Bullet Club, the former Pro Wrestling NOAH ace has found his niche in NJPW as an upper midcard villain in recent years.

KENTA Set For Grudge Match In NJPW

Before he makes his way over to Impact, KENTA will lock horns once again with his nemesis in New Japan: Hiroshi Tanahashi.

Tanahashi, the long-running ace of NJPW before Kazuchika Okada, has been butting heads with KENTA since the 2019 G1 Climax. Last year, the pair’s on-and-off feud hit a new peak with a hard-bumping, bloody no-disqualification bout at Wrestle Kingdom 16. There, Tanahashi seemingly vanquished the GTS creator once and for all for the IWGP US Championship.

KENTA IWGP US Championship
KENTA as US Champion.

However, at last year’s G1, KENTA got another win over the longtime babyface favorite. Needless to say, regardless of who wins at The New Beginning in Osaka tomorrow, this rivalry is likely far from over.

Considering New Japan’s penchant for booking grudge matches to set up title challengers, the winner here could enter a singles championship race. Whether it’s the US, NEVER or World Heavyweight Championship remains to be seen.

Which show are you looking forward to more out of The New Beginning and No Surrender?

Seth Rollins: It Pains Me To Have To Say Negative Things About CM Punk

Jon Fuentes
-
0

Seth Rollins has doubled down on his recent comments about All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star and ex-WWE Champion CM Punk.

Prior to the Royal Rumble, Rollins was asked in an interview about his thoughts on Punk potentially returning to WWE. Rollins was completely against the idea, calling Punk a “cancer” and telling him to stay away.

He also went as far as saying he flat out doesn’t like Punk, calling him a “jerk.” Recently, Rollins was a guest on Covino & Rich to discuss several professional wrestling topics. During the conversation, Rollins was asked about his comments on Punk.

Rollins explained that his dislike for Punk is similar to Logan Paul, labelling both as selfish in their intentions.

“Look, the bottom line is it’s the same thing as with Logan Paul. Punk and Logan Paul are two different personalities, but they’re both as selfish as it comes. If you’re not going to help, then I don’t want you to be part of our industry. I don’t want you to be part of our company, and that’s all that there is to that.”

CM Punk in WWE
(WWE)

“The Architect” did give Punk credit, however, for what he has done for the industry in the past. He explained that it pains him to speak ill of Punk, especially after how nice he was to him early on in his career. However, the past several years Punk has been in a different headspace.

“Here’s the thing, I will say one thing about Punk, I’ll end it on a positive note with him. That guy has given my career so much that it pains me to have to say bad things about him because he helped me out. He really did.

“He’s been a good guy to me for a lot of my career, but for whatever reason, the past maybe six, seven years, he’s in a different headspace, and we’re not on the same page and to see kind of what he’s done and taken and taken, it’s always been about him.

“I’m not a fan. I’m just not a fan of it. There’s a place for him, man. He’s got a lot to give. I just wish his head was in the right spot.”

Rollins is currently gearing up to challenge for the United States Championship inside the Elimination Chamber. The action goes down at the Elimination Chamber PLE on February 18 from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Quotes via WrestleZone

John Cena Featured in Official Trailer for ‘Fast X’ Film

Andrew Ravens
-
0

The trailer for Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, has been released. 

The franchise regulars Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang and Scott Eastwood are back for the film. 

Returning cast members include Jason Statham’s Deckard Shaw, John Cena’s Jakob Toretto, Helen Mirren’s Magdalene “Queenie” Ellmanson-Shaw, and Charlize Theron’s Cipher.

New cast members include Jason Momoa and Brie Larson. Momoa portrays a villain named Dante, while Larson plays a new character named Tess.  Michael Rooker, Daniela Melchior, Alan Ritchson, and Rita Moreno have also joined the cast. 

The film is directed by Louis Leterrier (Clash of the Titans and The Incredible Hulk) while it’s produced by Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum, and Samantha Vincent. The executive producers are Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis and Mark Bomback. 

The Synopsis 

The synopsis of the film reads like, “Dante’s plot will scatter Dom’s family from Los Angeles to the catacombs of Rome, from Brazil to London and from Portugal to Antarctica. New allies will be forged and old enemies will resurface. But everything changes when Dom discovers that his own 8-year-old son is the ultimate target of Dante’s vengeance.”

Fast X is set to hit theaters on May 19, 2023.

‘1 deadMAN Show’ Heading to Vegas and LA Before WrestleMania

Michael Reichlin
-
0

WWE announced the following on Friday, February 10:

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW ADDS STOPS IN LAS VEGAS AND LOS ANGELES AHEAD OF WRESTLEMANIA 39

Tickets For Both Events Go On Sale Tuesday, February 14

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 10, 2023 – WWE® (NYSE: WWE) today announced that the critically acclaimed UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will add stops in Las Vegas and Los Angeles ahead of WrestleMania 39. The one-man show featuring WWE Legend The Undertaker will take center stage at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on Friday, March 24 and The Novo at LA Live on Friday, March 31.

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will feature “The Phenom” in an intimate setting, sharing never-before-heard stories from his Hall of Fame career and taking questions from the WWE Universe in attendance. The show has sold out venues in Nashville, Philadelphia, Boston and San Antonio since debuting last summer.

Tickets for UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW go on sale this Tuesday, February 14 at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets can be purchased via ticketmaster.com for the March 24 show in Las Vegas and via axs.com for the March 31 show in Los Angeles. A limited number of VIP tickets, which includes premier seating and a meet-and-greet with The Undertaker, will also be available for each show.

WrestleMania goes Hollywood during a special two-night Premium Live Event on Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2 from SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Limited tickets are still available for the biggest WWE event of the year via Ticketmaster.com and the two-day premium live event will stream live exclusively on Peacock in the United States and WWE Network everywhere else.

Kamille on Charlotte Flair Dream Match: “She’s the Best in the World”

Scott Fishman
-
0

Kamille will be the first to tell you that she isn’t the same pro wrestler she was more than 600 days ago when she first won the NWA women’s championship. “The Brickhouse” has evolved and taken from every experience in the ring. 

With every defense, confidence grows for the impressive athlete. Chelsea Green, KiLynn King, Taya Valkyrie, Max The Impaler, Jennacide, and the list goes on and on. Coming up is one of the former softball standout’s biggest tests to date in the form of veteran and multi-time women’s champion Angelina Love at Nuff Said on pay-per-view. 

Despite a long travel day to Tampa a few days before the show, Kamille made the drive to WWE superstar couple Natalya and TJ Wilson’s training space for a last-minute session. 

“It was great,” she said. “Me and Nattie, it’s one of those things where we have been friends on Instagram but never really gotten the chance to sit down and talk. Being able to get in the ring with someone like her. First off,  her family lineage with the Hart family. To learn from her not only in the ring but hear what she thinks about the business side of things. I’m very grateful they let me join in.”

Kamille’s Road to Greatness

Kamille certainly came in with a tremendous look, but she knew early she’d have to put in the work to succeed. She really entered pro wrestling seven years ago. Cutting her teeth on the independent scene and joining the NWA at the end of 2018 as Nick Aldis’ insurance policy. 

“I didn’t start wrestling matches until 2020 and then COVID. Then really getting into it at the beginning of 2021,” she contends.

It has been an on-the-job training experience for Kamille. NWA head Billy Corgan had given her the ball in the form of the women’s championship, and she has been running with it ever since. Momentum continues to build as Kamille continues to put in the work to be her very best. 

“I went from having four squash matches in NWA to now having these championship-worthy matches,” she said. “I won [the championship] from Serena Deeb. Getting in there with someone who had been in the business for so long. Not only is she an amazing wrestler but an amazing person. 

“I actually texted her to just say thank you for setting me up for my entire run. Every match I’m learning something new. I’m working with someone different. And different styles. It is on-the-job training. There are going to be hiccups but you learn from them and keep going. I definitely think now I can go in there with anyone in the world.” 

She cites facing Leyla Hirsch at EmPowerrr and Taya Valkyrie at NWA 74 in the main event as benchmarks. The latter made her feel, “You can do this. You were meant for this.” Speaking of EmPowerrr, Kamille wants to see a sequel but also believes absence makes the heart grow fonder. 

“I think the fact it didn’t happen last year will make the next one more special because people want it now,” she explained. “I can’t wait to see what sorts of talent are out there. You have talent from all different companies coming together. I hope we have that same dynamic of everyone working together and seeing matches you wouldn’t normally see.” 

Kamille on Charlotte Flair being a Dream Opponent

And if that proverbial “forbidden door” opened, Kamille has one particular opponent in mind. A WWE queen. 

“Businesswise and putting butts in seats and people wanting to see it, it would have to be Charlotte Flair,” she responded when asked who she would face if she had her way down the line. “She is the best in the world. I think we would have a good backstory and story that could lead into it. Getting in there with someone who is so talented could help me learn and grow. And it’s something people would want to see. I believe we are around the same size, so I think the dynamic of that would be very interesting.” 

Angelina Love and NWA Nuff Said

NWA Nuff Said Kamille vs Angelina Love

Despite having that dream match in mind, Kamille remains focused on her next big defense against Angelina Love. Respect remains for the challenger. 

“The fact is Angelina is a veteran. She has been doing this for a long time. When she was part of TNA, she was a needle mover. She got people watching,” she said. “I think she surprises a lot of people because not only is she beautiful but so talented as well and intense. Her as my opponent, I know I’m bigger and have the advantage in that way. But she has that veteran status. I’ve never been in a no-DQ match. I’m sure she has been in a few scuffles here and there. She might have that advantage over me. I think it will come down to who wants it more. It is going to be a fight.” 

NWA Nuff Said is available exclusively through FITE TV. It is available for preorder now for $24.99.  

WWE Plans to Run Major Shows in These Two Major Cities

J. Cunningham
-
0

Two cities in the United States are currently being eyed up by the WWE for blockbuster events in the near future.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the WWE are reportedly looking at both Atlanta, Georgia and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Interestingly, Atlanta was expected to host Day 1 last month but the event was ultimately cancelled, with Royal Rumble resuming its role as the first PLE of the year.

Minneapolis, meanwhile, has the US Bank Stadium. The home of the Minnesota Vikings was opened in 2016 and boasts a whopping 73,000 capacity. Nearer the time of its initial opening, WWE had reportedly considered it for a future WrestleMania. Considering today’s news, it’s not implausible that such an announcement might be made in the near future.

Why Did WWE Cancel This Year’s Day 1 Event?

Last year, the WWE kicked things off with a bang with a brand new PLE in Day 1. The main event saw Brock Lesnar get his hands on the WWE Championship in a five-way bout after he pinned then-defending champ Big E.

Brock Lesnar
Brock Lesnar

The event was initially slated to host another instalment in WWE’s long-running Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns rivalry. Reigns was forced to pull out due to illness, leading to ‘The Beast’s WWE Title win and the title-for-title main event at last year’s WrestleMania between them.

This year’s Day 1 event was expected to happen at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. However, WWE’s streaming partner Peacock cancelled the event due to it coinciding with a Sunday night football game being televised by parent company NBC.

Initially promoted as having Brock Lesnar bout on the card, the cancellation of the show was considered disappointing by many fans. For now, WWE’s attempt at kicking off a year immediately with a PLE appears to be on hold.

Do you think Day 1 was a good idea for a PLE?

Mercedes Moné Earning Far Less in NJPW than First Believed (Report)

Thomas Lowson
-
0

Mercedes Moné may be one of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s highest-paid attractions, but she isn’t close to earning what was initially believed.

The former Sasha Banks debuted for the promotion at Wrestle Kingdom 17 in January of this year and confronted KAIRI.

Moné’s appearance at Wrestle Kingdom was the ex-Superstar’s first wrestling appearance after walking out of Monday Night Raw in May 2022.

Payment

As one of the biggest names of WWE’s women’s division, it should come as no surprise that Moné is being paid well by NJPW’s parent company Bushiroad.

Upon her arrival, it was reported that Moné was the highest-paid wrestler per appearance, earning more than Chris Jericho in 2018.

In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that Moné is not making more than Jericho did, adding that “it’s not even close.”

Meltzer added that “the money is not at the level she could get with WWE or AEW.”

Instead of the money, Meltzer suggested that Moné opting to work with Bushiroad is a ‘bucket list’ item being fulfilled: to work with the top Japanese female wrestlers in her prime.

Meltzer added that Moné does have “far more freedom to explore acting or other businesses” than if she’d stayed with WWE.

The Future for Mercedes Moné

Moné’s first match for New Japan will come next week when she challenges KAIRI for the IWGP Women’s Championship at NJPW Battle in the Valley.

It has been reported that NJPW is already planning a second match between the two, one that is likely to take place at the famed Sumo Hall in Japan.

Some in WWE reportedly believe that Moné will be back in the company within a year or two, once she gets this run out of her system.

Mercedes Mone Addresses Her WWE Departure, Why She Signed With NJPW

Next Hell in a Cell Match to feature Two Former WWE World Champions

Thomas Lowson
-
0

WWE’s next Hell in a Cell match may be a matter of weeks away according to the latest report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

In late 2022, it was reported that WWE was planning a Cell match between Edge and Finn Balor, that was scheduled to take place at the Royal Rumble PLE.

That match didn’t happen, and both men competed in the Men’s Royal Rumble match which was won by Cody Rhodes.

In the Observer, it is explained that WWE did plan on the Hell in a Cell match last month, but Edge’s acting commitments kept it from happening.

It is added that the match is a “possibility” for WWE WrestleMania 39 in April.

Edge and Balor will be on opposite teams for next week’s Elimination Chamber event, where they will team with Beth Phoenix and Rhea Ripley respectively.

Hell in a Cell at WrestleMania

Finn Balor and Edge

While the Hell in a Cell match has been a WWE staple for over 25 years, the match has only happened three times at WrestleMania.

At WrestleMania 15, The Undertaker defeated the Big Boss Man, extending the Phenom’s WrestleMania winning streak to 8-0.

It wouldn’t be until WrestleMania 28 that the Cell returned to WWE’s biggest event, when The Undertaker defeated Triple H.

At WrestleMania 32 in 2016, The Undertaker once again emerged victorious inside the Cell, this time against Shane McMahon.

The Future of Hell in a Cell

The Hell in a Cell match is one of the more graphic stipulations WWE uses, though matches over the past decade have been somewhat lacking.

Fans have taken issue with the Hell in a Cell match having a PLE, believing it has lessened the significance of the structure.

Last year, it was reported that the Hell in a Cell PLE is “completely dead” in an edict by WWE’s Head of Creative Triple H.

A veteran of nine Cell matches, the Game believes that match should be used when it makes sense, rather than WWE forcing a Cell match “just because it’s October.”

WWE Superstar Busted Open Badly at Hell in a Cell (Video)

Bronson Reed Opens Up About “Heartwrenching” but “Beneficial” WWE Release

Thomas Lowson
-
0

Bronson Reed is back with WWE after being released in 2021, but for a long time accepted that he would never be a WWE Superstar.

The Australian’s exit from the promotion in August of that year was certainly a shock to fans, given how he had been pushed as a future top star of the brand.

Reed had even received a couple of WWE Main Event appearances, which traditionally is how WWE tests the waters for a main roster call-up.

The Release

Reed was one of many WWE Superstars released by the company that year, all of which were explained at the time as down to ‘budget cuts.’

Speaking on After the Bell, Reed said he had mixed emotions over his release.

“To be honest, I think everyone that’s been through something like that takes it differently. I was surprised in the way that I did take it. I was more angry than anything. I wasn’t so much sad or anything like that. I just thought that I had so much potential because things were going my way.

I was the North American Champion, only just lost that championship [before my release] so to me I was just angry that I didn’t get to do more with the WWE, which then put a chip on my shoulder and I went out there and did whatever I could to be the best that I could be which obviously got me seen to come back. So in the end, I think it was a little gutwrenching at the time but it might have been beneficial for my career.”

Outside of WWE, Reed would work as JONAH in New Japan Pro Wrestling, where he’d hold his own against established stars, including getting a victory over Kazuchika Okada.

Making it to WWE

For Reed, the journey to WWE would take him across the globe from his native Australia, where he gold as part of Melbourne Championship Wrestling.

On the show, Reed said that he came to terms with the idea that he would never make it to WWE not long into his wrestling career.

“I never even dreamt I could be in WWE. When I started training in Australia in 2007, there was no one from Australia in WWE. So my intention was to be as good a pro wrestler as I could be in my home country. In my hometown, then travel around the country, then hopefully get to Japan.”

“I never even dreamt I could be in WWE.”

Bronson Reed.

Not only is Reed in WWE, but he could be the next United States Champion, as he will be part of the U.S. Title Elimination Chamber match next week.

Triple H Viewed Bronson Reed as a Priority Hire

For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

Potential Spoilers on Plans for WWE U.S. Title at Elimination Chamber 2023 (Report)

Thomas Lowson
-
0

Fans eager to see a new United States Champion crowned at WWE Elimination Chamber 2023 may be in for a disappointing night in Montreal.

WWE Elimination Chamber will be the promotion’s next stop on the road to WrestleMania 39, and the first Montreal PLE since Breaking Point 2009.

The show will be headlined by Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns defending against Sami Zayn.

United States Championship

For the first time in history, the WWE U.S. Title will be decided inside an Elimination Chamber match.

Current and two-time champion Austin Theory will defend against Seth Rollins, Johnny Gargano, Montez Ford, Damian Priest and Bronson Reed.

In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it is reported that Theory has filmed content for WWE that is due to air in March and is holding the U.S. Title in the footage, making a title change unlikely.

Meltzer said that while the footage does not rule out a title change entirely, the line-up in the chamber does not suggest a title change will happen. He adds:

“Gargano and Ford are unlikely to win unless the plan is to split up the Street Profits, which has been talked about but unless they have a major plan for Ford there is no reason to do so. Reed is a longshot but they could and probably will try to portray him in a manner to become a bigger star. Priest could win at this stage and would probably be the favorite aside from Theory.”

WrestleMania 39

Theory may be leaving the Elimination Chamber as United States Champion, but there will be no rest for the wicked.

Current plans for WrestleMania will see Theory face John Cena, in a match that was teased throughout 2022.

Meltzer noted in his report that Cena Vs. Theory does not need the United States title, though it was John’s first title he won in 2004.

Austin Theory Explains Why MITB Briefcase Was An ‘Anchor’ For Him

How Much Money Will Vince McMahon Make if WWE is Sold? (Report)

Thomas Lowson
-
0

WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon will be an incredibly wealthy (or rather, wealthier) man in the event of the promotion being sold.

The billionaire’s return to WWE in January 2023, came less than six months after his shocking retirement in July of last year in the hush-money

McMahon reportedly strong-armed his way back into WWE, threatening to vote down any sales offers of negotiated TV deals if he was not brought back to the company.

Show Me the Money!

McMahon has made it clear that his sole reason for returning to WWE is to facilitate a sale of the promotion.

While WWE is optimistic that the promotion will be sold for $8.5 billion, it has been estimated that the company will go for $8 billion.

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer broke down how much key players will make in the event of a sale based on their current financial interests and investment.

  • Vince McMahon $2,552,969,558
  • Stephanie McMahon $170,842,415
  • Linda McMahon $50,320,030
  • Kevin Dunn $24,205,410
  • Nick Khan $13,837,200
  • Frank Riddick $10,931,948
  • Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque $8,323,822

Finding a Buyer

For McMahon to add over $2.5 billion to his account, a sale first needs to take place.

Companies reported as interested include FOX, Disney, Amazon, and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, among others.

Comcast, considered by many to be the favorite to buy, is reportedly not interested, though that claim has been disputed by WWE CEO Nick Khan.

Khan has said that he estimates that the process will take approximately three months, meaning a deal should be finalized by the end of Spring this year.

Vince McMahon has “Declared” he Will Step Down Again If In WWE’s Best Interest

Latest on When CM Punk Will be Cleared to Wrestle for AEW

Thomas Lowson
-
0

CM Punk could be back on our screens within a matter of months if AEW wants him back that is.

The two-time former AEW World Champion has been suspended since September’s All Out Pay-Per-View, following his comments on the post-show media scrum and the fight.

Punk is now the only person suspended to remain suspended, with everyone else being brought back, or in the case of his trainer Ace Steel, fired from AEW.

Getting Medically Cleared

During his AEW World Championship victory over Jon Moxley, Punk suffered a torn triceps, which made the decision to strip him of the title much easier for Tony Khan.

On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that Punk is mere months away from being cleared to return.

A torn triceps usually takes eight months to fully recover from (unless your name is John Cena) which would put Punk’s return in early May 2023.

Not Wanted

Of course, it’s not the injury that has had fans believing Punk’s time in AEW, and possibly in wrestling, is over.

It has been reported that Punk is seeking a buyout of his AEW deal, something that Tony Khan is in no hurry to grant, believing he could jump to WWE.

Chris Jericho called Punk a “cancer” following his actions at All Out, and WWE’s Seth Rollins used similar verbiage last month when asked about the controversial star.

It has also been reported that people from both companies believe Punk returning to AEW or WWE is a bad idea and that he will only cause more trouble.

CM Punk Was Not “Correct” With All Out 2022 Actions Claims AEW Star

Concerned Fans Called Police After MJF’s Gruesome Dynamite Promo

Thomas Lowson
-
0

AEW World Champion MJF’s promo went a little too far in the minds of some fans, who believed his comments were real.

On this week’s Dynamite, the holder of the Big Burberry Belt defeated Konsuke Takeshita in the Champion’s first match in two months.

In a backstage promo, MJF spoke about crashing a car years ago when he was being pleasured by a woman who “for legal purposes” he called Liv.

MJF recalled being covered in the woman’s blood and switching their seats to make it look like she was the one behind the wheel at the time of the accident.

Police Involvement

MJF’s promo was certainly a shocking one, even by his standards, and it blurred the lines of reality and kayfabe for some fans.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez reported that local law enforcement received “a lot” of calls from fans who watched the promo.

“100% they got a bunch of phone calls. That’s not a joke. A bunch of fans legitimately called the Nassau Police Department to report MJF.”

Bryan Alvarez.

ESPN’s Marc Raimondi also “heard from several people” who said there is truth to the reports of police being called.

It is unclear if these calls were genuine, or tongue-in-cheek by fans enjoying the Salt of the Earth’s promo.

To clarify, there is no factual evidence to back up the idea that MJF was responsible for a woman’s death.

What’s Next?

This week’s edition of AEW Dynamite also saw Bryan Danielson defeat RUSH in the latest victory for the American Dragon.

With this win, Danielson has completed MJF’s task of remaining undefeated until February 8 and has therefore earned a shot at the AEW World Championship.

Not only will the pair face off at AEW Revolution on March 5, but it will be a sixty-minute Iron Man match, the first in AEW’s history.

After his win over RUSH, Danielson was attacked by MJF, who vowed that the former WWE Champion wasn’t going to make it to Revolution.

MJF References Popular WWE Superstar on Latest AEW Dynamite

GUNTHER Reaches New Milestone as WWE Intercontinental Champion

Thomas Lowson
-
0

The leader of Imperium GUNTHER has yet another accolade to his name thanks to his impressive tenure as WWE Intercontinental Champion.

GUNTHER captured his first title on WWE’s main roster on the June 10, 2022, edition of WWE SmackDown on FOX, ending the 98-day reign of Ricochet.

Since then, GUNTHER has retained against Ricochet, Braun Strowman, Rey Mysterio, and Shinsuke Nakamura to name just a few.

The Austrian’s war with Sheamus at WWE Clash at the Castle was heralded as one of the best matches of 2022 and earned five stars from Dave Meltzer.

Record Breaker

Since capturing the title, GUNTHER has kept an iron grip on the Intercontinental gold, and has now surpassed a huge milestone.

Today marks day-245 of GUNTHER’s reign, meaning he’s surpassed Shelton Benjamin’s 244-day reign from 2004 to 2005.

With this, GUNTHER has become the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion of the 21st century, a fact WWE acknowledged on social media.

The Austrian’s next hurdle is to make it to 265 days (Thursday, March 2.) If he does, GUNTHER will surpass The Rock to become the longest-reigning champion in 32 years.

What’s Next?

It seems nothing can stop GUNTHER’s momentum at this time, but two former WWE World Champions are hoping to do exactly that.

It has been reported that the plan for WrestleMania 39 calls for GUNTHER to defend against Sheamus and Drew McIntyre in a war of three of Europe’s finest stars.

Both men have previously spoken about being the one to dethrone GUNTHER, and McIntyre is a former WWE Intercontinental Champion in his own right.

For Sheamus, capturing the gold would see him fulfill his journey to becoming a WWE Grand Slam winner, which began with his WWE Title win over John Cena in December 2009.

GUNTHER: Brock Lesnar is My End Boss

ESPN to Broadcast AEW Exclusively in Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands

Michael Reichlin
-
0

ESPN has secured the exclusive broadcast rights for AEW programming to ESPN subscribers in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

AEW shows that will air on ESPN in those regions include Dynamite, Rampage and (on delay) the quarterly PPV lineup including Revolution, Double orNothing, All Out and Full Gear.

Here’s the official announcement sent in to SEScoops:

February 9, 2023 – ESPN announced that it has secured exclusive broadcast rights to top American professional wrestling promotion All Elite Wrestling (AEW), bringing its premium matches and entertainment to ESPN subscribers in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands starting February 16.

This marks AEW’s first broadcast deal in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, and ESPN’s first broadcast partnership with a professional wrestling organization in the region. AEW, the new professional wrestling league taking the world by storm, is continuing its meteoric rise with record-high ratings, world-class roster and highly entertaining product.

Each week on ESPN, fans in the region can catch all the action on “AEW: DYNAMITE” on Thursday AEDT, and “AEW: RAMPAGE” on Saturday AEDT, with same-day replays and episodes made available on-demand. In addition, through ESPN, fans will have access to all of AEW’s quarterly pay-per-view events on delay: REVOLUTION, DOUBLE OR NOTHING, ALL OUT and FULL GEAR.

AEW’s star-studded roster includes Chris Jericho, Bryan Danielson, MJF, Jon Moxley, Jamie Hayter, Saraya, Kenny Omega, Matt & Nick Jackson, Darby Allin, Sting, Orange Cassidy, Jade Cargill, Dr. Britt Baker, Claudio Castagnoli, Adam Cole, The Acclaimed, Jungle Boy, Samoa Joe, Athena, Toni Storm, Ricky Starks, Wardlow, Buddy Matthews, and Powerhouse Hobbs. Further bolstering its global pop culture infiltration, AEW has launched impressive collections of video games, action figures, trading cards, merchandise and more.

AEW will be available on ESPN in the following locations:
Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, Niue, Nauru, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Northern Marianas, Tokelau, Tahiti, Tuvalu, New Caledonia, American Samoa, Marshall Islands, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, and Wallis and Futuna.

About AEW

Founded by CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan in 2019, AEW is offering an alternative to mainstream wrestling, with a roster of world-class talent that is injecting new spirit, freshness and energy into the industry. In the U.S., “AEW: DYNAMITE” airs every Wednesday night on TBS and attracts the youngest wrestling audience on television, and the fight-forward show “AEW: RAMPAGE” airs every Friday night on TNT.

For more info, check out Twitter.com/AEW; Instagram.com/AEW; YouTube.com/AEW; Facebook.com/AEW

About ESPN

ESPN is the world’s leading sports entertainment company and is renowned for delivering sports with personality and authority. In Australia and New Zealand ESPN operates the ESPN and ESPN2 sports television networks, distributed on the Foxtel, Fetch, Kayo Sports and Sky platforms. We deliver over 10,000 hours of live events and studio programming each year, with a broadcast rights portfolio that includes NBA, NFL, UFC, US Open, NBL, MLB and NHL, and much more. In addition, the ESPNews, ESPNU, ACC Network and SEC Networks are available to stream via the ESPN App. ESPN networks feature some of the most respected and recognizable sports anchors and reporters on the globe, with names like Scott Van Pelt, Stephen A Smith, Doris Burke, Adrian Wojnarowski, Jeff Van Gundy and Jalen Rose.

ESPN and ESPN2 and available on Foxtel, Kayo Sports, Fetch TV and SKY NZ.

Impact Wrestling Results (2/9/23): Joe Hendry vs. Matt Cardona, Steph De Lander Debut & More

Tyriece Simon
-
0

The Feb. 9 episode of Impact Wrestling aired on AXS TV at 8 PM EST/5 PM PT.

This episode featured a title match between Joe Hendry and Matt Cardona for the Digital Media Championship. The feud has lasted for several weeks, as both have traded insults in “diss songs.” Also on the show, Steph De Lander has her debut match against former Impact Knockout Champion Jordynne Grace.

This week’s episode also aired on their Youtube channel for Impact Insider subscribers. Impact Wrestling offers a monthly subscription to watch weekly episodes on Youtube for $1.49. However, it aired at 8:30 PM ET/5:30 PM PT.

If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

Impact Wrestling Results (2/9) Results

The show opened with a video package from last week’s episode of Impact Wrestling. We also get a video package showing the feud between Hendry and Cardona. After it ends, we get Cardona trying to get to his locker room but gets stopped by a backstage staff. He gets shown to his private locker room, which is an equipment room.

Dirty Dango vs. Brian Myers- No Surrender Number One Contender’s Qualifier Match

The match starts with the two locking up. Dirty Dango pushes Brian Myers to the corner but back away. They exchange holds again, but Myers takes Dango down with a Shoulder Block. Myers tries to capitalize, but Dango takes back control of the match. Myers tried to go for a Sunset Flip Pin, but Dango countered with a leg drop for a failed pin attempt.

Myers goes outside and hides under the ring. Dango goes after him, but Myers hurts him when he pulls his shoulder into the ring apron. Myers brings Dango back into the ring and controls the match for several minutes. However, they clash heads when Myers tries to Irish Whip Dango into the ropes. The match returns to Dango’s favor as he takes control of the match. Dango landed a Falcon Arrow for a two-count on Myers.

Before Dango can go after Myers, his opponents go to the outside. He tried to go after Myers on the outside of the ring but got caught with the Roster Cut. Myers puts Dango back in the ring and hits the move again for the win.

We get a backstage segment with Gisele Shaw ruining people’s meals in catering. Deonna Purrazzo confronts her and throws food at her. Santino Marella comes to the scene and announces that they will have a match at No Surrender.

Good Hands(Jason Hotch & John Skyler) vs. Mickie James & Tommy Dreamer

The match starts with Jason Hotch and Mickie James exchanging holds. James controls the wrist and gets Tommy Dreamer in the match. Dreamer works on the arm before tagging James back in as she jumps from the top rope on Hotch’s arm. Skyler tags into the match, but James catches him with an Arm Drag. She tags Dreamer back in, and they land a Drop Toe Hold and Running Elbow combo move.

Skyler rolls to the outside. Hotch tries to run after Dreamer but gets thrown to the outside on top of his partner. Dreamer goes to the outside and does a dive on his opponents. James also does a Top Rope Crossbody on the outside. Dreamer brings Skyler back in the ring to put him in a Texas Cloverleaf, but Hotch hits Dreamer from behind. The Good Hands start to control the match working on Dreamer. However, Dreamer catches Skyler with a Cutter, and both tag out.

Before Hotch can go after James, She catches him with several Clotheslines. He tries to go after her again, but She lands the Flapjack on him. She does a Top Rope Lou Thesz Press for a pin on Hotch but gets stopped by Skyler. While Skyler is grabbing her hair, she counters and lands the Mick Kick. Dreamer gets in the ring, and they both land a DDT simultaneously on their opponents. James gets the pin on Hotch for the win.

After the match, Bully Ray comes out to attack Dreamer from behind. He goes after James, but Masha Slamovich attacks James from behind. Slamovich takes out James with the Snowplow.

We get a backstage segment with Marella, Johnny Swinger, Zicky Dice, and Dango. Swinger is looking for an opponent he can beat, and Dice says he has an opponent in mind as we go to the commercial break.

We get a video package of Rich Swann talking about getting an opportunity to win the Impact World Championship at No Surrender.

Steph De Lander vs. Jordynne Grace

Before the match, Lander cuts a promo about how it’s a “fall from grace” as she lost her title and how she will defeat Grace in her debut.

The match starts with Lander and Grace locking up. Lander puts Grace and the corner but back away to kick her in the stomach. She tries to go after Grace again, but her opponents put her in the corner and Knife Edge Chop Lander. Grace takes the fight outside the ring but gets caught with a Big Boot. Lander rolls her back in the ring for a two-count. She starts to control the match by keeping Grace on the ground for a few minutes.

Lander tries to Irish Whip Grace to the corner, but Grace lands a hard elbow strike. Her opponent responds with a Suplex, but it fires up Grace. The former Impact Knockout Champion starts to rally back in the match. However, Lander hits Grace with the Snake Eyes and a Big Boot for a near fall. The finish comes when Grace lands the Grace Driver for the win.

We get a backstage segment as Cardona demands a different locker room. Instead of changing in the equipment room, he has to change in the parking lot.

We get a backstage interview with Impact World Champion Josh Alexander as he talks about defending his title against Swann at No Surrender. He says that they are friends, but he will defeat Swann. Kenny King interrupts the interview. King says Alexander is scared of him and challenges him to a match.

Swann interrupts their argument and hits King in the face. He wants to face King. However, King says that he will see Swann when he sees him.

The Death Dollz (Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary) with Jessicka vs. Taylor Wilde & Killer Kelly)

Taya Valkyrie and Killer Kelly start the match. Kelly tries to go after Valkyrie and Rosemary but is outmatched. Valkyrie tags in Rosemary and lands a Sliding German Suplex as Kelly is on the ropes. Rosemary goes for the pin but gets a two-count. Rosemary starts beating down Kelly.

She puts Kelly in Upside Down in the corner. After the move, Rosemary goes on outside the ring, and Kelly tags in Taylor Wilder, who is looking at tarot cards. Rosemary enters the ring and starts to control Wilde but gets caught with a Backbreaker. The momentum if the match begins to go in favor of Wilde and Kelly as they tag in and out to dominate Rosemary.

Wilde tags in to work on Rosemary. She Irish Whips her into the ropes, but they both land Clothesline. They tag out the match, but Valkyrie gets the better of Kelly. She lands a Blue Thunder Bomb on Kelly for a two-count. Valkyrie tries to follow up the move but gets caught with a kick to the face. Kelly tries to tag out, but Wilde reads her tarot cards.

Wilde turns on Kelly, and Valkyrie lands Road to Valhalla for the win.

After the match, Father James Mitchell returns and confronts The Death Dollz. Mitchell says that Rosemary hasn’t spoken to his Boss(her father), and he puts a Hex on her. The Hex (Sienna & Marti Belle) enters the ring from the crowd and attacks The Death Dollz from behind.

We get a backstage segment with Eddie Edwards asking Shera to take out PCO for him.

Impact Wrestling gives another backstage segment with Chris Bey and Ace Austin challenging KUSHIDA and The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley) at No Surrender. Bey and Austin reveal that KENTA will be their partner for the six-man tag match.

PCO vs. Shera with Raj Singh- No Surrender Number One Contender’s Qualifier Match

Shera tries to rush in to attack PCO but gets caught with a kick to the stomach. He tries to get his offense back but gets caught with a strike to the throat. Shera rolls to the outside, but PCO does a running dive on Shera and Raj Singh.

PCO tries to choke Singh and Shera, but they push him into the ring corner. Shera brings PCO back into the corner and starts the control the match. PCO is bleeding from hitting the ring corner. Shera lands a Suplex, but it just makes PCO mad. Shera Irish Whips PCO to the corner, but PCO counters with a Clothesline. PCO follows up the move with a Reverse DDT and a Top Rope Moonsault for the win.

We get a backstage interview with Cardona in his wrestling gear. He says he’s ready to fight Hendry.

We get a backstage segment with Frankie Kazarian and Sami Callihan. He tries to talk to Callihan about his recent action. However, The Design interrupts, and Kazarian challenges Kon to a match at No Surrender.

(C)Joe Hendry vs. Matt Cardona- Digital Media Championship Match

Before the match, Hendry cuts a promo and calls Cardona Edge’s B*tch. Hendry declares that he will be victorious in the match.

The match starts with Cardona landing Radio Silence for a near fall. Cardona tries to follow up on the move, but Hendry throws him to the outside. Hendry lands a Knife Edge Chop on Cardona and puts him back in the ring. However, Cardona hits Hendry with a knee as he tries to enter the ring.

Cardona tries to run at Hendry but gets caught with a scoop slam. Hendry tries to continue his offense, but his opponent keeps leaving the ring. Hendry tries to go after Cardona but gets caught with a Neckbreaker outside the ring as we go to a commercial break.

We come back from break with Cardona controlling the match. He locks in a jumping Guillotine on Hendry, but the champion counters with a Suplex. Hendry gains the upper hand as he catches Cardona with a Fallaway Slam. Cardona goes to the corner. The champion tries to go after Cardona, but the referee stops Hendry. Cardona pulls the referee in the way, and as the official moves, he lands a kick to the stomach, followed by a DDT on Hendry for a near fall.

Cardona tries to land a Running Boot to the face of Hendry in the corner, but the champion stops him. He lands the Trust Fall on Cardona for a two count. The champion Irish Whips Cardona to the corner, followed by a Running Cutter for another near fall. Hendry tries to follow up on the move but gets caught with another Radio Silence for a near fall.

The challenger tries to land a Radio Silence for the middle rope but gets caught with a Powerbomb for a two count. Myers tries to interfere in the match and throws the Digital Media Championship in the ring. The referee goes after the title, and Myers runs into the ring to try to hit Hendry with the Roster Cut. However, he accidentally hits Cardona, and Hendry throws Myers out of the ring. The finish comes when Hendry lands the Standing Ovation for the win.

After the match, Moose enters the ring and accidentally hits Cardona with a Spear. He tries to go after the champion but gets thrown to the outside. Hendry escapes up the ramp and plays his “diss song” on Cardona. The show ends with the crowd chanting that Cardona is Edge’s B*tch.

Jerry Lawler Out of ICU, Expected to Leave Hospital on Friday

Michael Reichlin
-
0

We have another encouraging update on Jerry Lawler’s health after suffering a “massive” stroke on Monday outside his home in Fort Myers, Florida.

Lawler’s official Twitter account (@JerryLawler) posted the following update on Thursday, February 9. The King is scheduled to leave the hospital Friday. He’s still experiencing some speech and cognitive issues, but doctors are optimistic that he’ll make a full recovery.

Dutch Mantell, Lawler’s longtime friend, also provided an update after speaking with Lawler’s son, Kevin.

“Just talked to Kevin Lawler who said that Jerry is being released from the hospital tomorrow. It was believed he’d be in through this weekend so Jerry is doing well. He will remain in FL until he’s cleared to fly.”

– Dutch Mantell

Previously … On Wednesday (February 8), Lawler’s official Twitter account (@JerryLawler) checked in with some great news: he’s expected to make a full recovery.

His friend and longtime meteorologist Dave Brown had a video call with the King on Tuesday (February 7) and provided this account to Commercial Appeal:

“Some of the initial reports were just horrible, so I feel much better than I did 18 hours ago when I felt like I got hit in the face with a shovel. I was incredibly encouraged after I did a FaceTime. Jerry was alert. He talked to me. He could only say a couple words at a time, which is pretty normal. But (he) was able to move both legs and both arms.”

Once again, SEScoops wishes Jerry Lawler a full and speedy recovery.

AEW: Fight Forever Rated ‘Teen’ for Partially Exposed Buttocks, Molotov Cocktails & More

Michael Reichlin
-
0

All Elite Wrestling’s first console video game has finally received a rating by the Entertainment Software Rating Board.

AEW: Fight Forever has received a “Teen” rating for some suggestive content, including the use of molotov cocktails, deep cleavage, partially exposed buttocks, crotch chops, depictions of alcohol consumption, smoking and more.

AEW: Fight Forever Rated ‘Teen’

Here’s the official Rating Summary, courtesy of the ESRB:

This is a wrestling game in which players compete in matches with wrestlers from the AEW roster. Players use punches, kicks, and grappling maneuvers to drain their opponents’ health. In some match types (e.g., Barbed Wire, Stadium Stampede, Unsanctioned) players can use barbed wired, baseball bats, metal chairs, and Molotov cocktails against opponents, eventually resulting in submission and/or knock outs. Blood-splatter effects can occur during matches, staining the mats; video footage of real matches also depicts blood on wrestlers’ faces and bodies. The game contains some mildly suggestive material: female wrestlers in revealing outfits (e.g., deep cleavage, bunny outfits, partially exposed buttocks); wrestlers performing taunting gestures (e.g., crotch chop, slapping buttocks). Real footage sometimes depicts wrestlers drinking alcohol and smoking. The word “sh*t” is heard in the game.

Fight Forever is ‘coming soon’ and has been coming soon since 2021. In recent weeks, there has been speculation that the ESRB rating was one of the issues holding up the game’s release, so this is one more hurdle cleared.

The game will be available, at some point, for Windows PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X.

NWA Women’s Champion Trains With WWE Superstars

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Kamille is preparing for her next title defense this weekend, but she got to train with two WWE stars before she does. 

The NWA Women’s Champion recently trained with Natalya and TJ Wilson at Workhorse Fitness in Tampa, FL. She shared a photo with Natalya while in the ring and wrote the following in the caption: 

“Huge thanks to @NatbyNature @TJWilson for being so welcoming last night! Helping me to get ready for a big weekend of wrestling. So happy to be continuing my journey in training with the best of the best in the world and can’t wait to see where else this year takes me!”

Next Title Defense

The NWA will present its Nuff Said pay-per-view event this Saturday night at 7 pm EST on FITE TV. Kamille will defend her title against Angelina Love in a no DQ match at the show.

Kamille has been the Women’s Champion for over 600 days after winning it from Serena Deeb at When Our Shadows Fall in June 2021.

Other top matches that will be featured on the card include NWA World Champion Tyrus vs.Matt Cardona, NWA National Champion Cyon vs. Homicide, and Thom Latimer vs. Fodder in a Singapore cane match

Madusa on Raw is XXX “It Could Have Been More Than A Poker Game”

Tyriece Simon
-
0

WWE Hall of Famer Madusa has shared her experience of appearing at Raw is XXX and if she believes WWE could’ve done more with her.

The company celebrated its historic 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw on Jan. 23. While some fans enjoyed the show, others criticized the lack of female legends. Raw is XXX had male legends like Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, and others make appearances and have segments on the show. However, Madusa was the only female legend to appear at Raw is XXX, and the company had her in the background playing poker.

In an interview with Just ALYX, Madusa talked about how the appearance came together. She has a new book, “Woman Who Would Be King: The Madusa Story,” with a release date to be announced. Amazon has it listed for pre-order for $29.95.

“It was an honor to be called. They did call me a month or two before that and asked me to go. Then like three weeks before, they said, ‘Oh, schedule change.’ And I’m used to that because they always did that. They change it a month ahead, three weeks, two nights before, and the night of the show. They always change the card,” said Madusa.

She admitted that she didn’t take it personally. “…Then they called me two nights before and said, ‘Blaze, can you still come?’ I’m like, what? Oh my gosh, let me see. So you don’t know going in, and you kind of negotiate beforehand on what are we doing. They told me they were gonna have me play poker. And I’m like, I don’t know how to play poker. They were like, ‘Blayze, it’s scripted.’ And I’m like, Oh, that’s right,” said Madusa.

Madusa on If She Agrees With The Bella Twins

After Raw is XXX ended, The Bella Twins spoke openly about how WWE failed to represent a woman on the show. Neither in video tribute packages nor on-screen segments, they believed it didn’t want to showcase women on the show compared to the men. Madusa spoke about The Bellas Twins’ claims as the only female legend on the show.

“My thought when I did see a little bit of that was like, what is all of this? And then I started thinking, well, I was the only woman legend there. That was an honor. I thought maybe they’d be praising that, at least. You know, having one of their older peers there. But I didn’t see any of that. If they were so upset, why wouldn’t they say? Why did Blayze not have anything better for her than just a poker game? So it goes both ways. I guess to have one there is great. But then again, it could have been more than a poker game. I’m just saying,” said Madusa.

WWE hasn’t responded to The Bella Twins’ claims about the lack of female representation on Raw is XXX. The lack of more female Hall of Famer on the show could’ve been a misunderstanding. Hopefully the next major anniversary show, WWE could have an equal tribute for everyone.

Paul Wight is Planning In-Ring Return for Next Month

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Paul Wight has provided an update on his current injury status, as he has only worked a handful of matches since signing with AEW.

The former Big Show has continued to do commentary for the promotion every week on AEW Dark: Elevation but hasn’t wrestled since March 2022, a bout that aired on Dark: Elevation in Wight’s hometown of Columbia, South Carolina.

While speaking with Alistair McGeorge for Metro UK, Wight talked about the injury setbacks he’s had in recent months. 

“You know, there’s been some setbacks personally. I mean, I’ve had a couple of injury setbacks, had to get a knee replaced in August. That knee was bad for 12 years, so it could’ve gone any day! It’s like kind of like that tire on your car that you know you should change but keep driving anyway.”

The Goal

Wight then shared that he’s hoping to be back in the ring next month. 

“But we’re good now, and hopefully we’ll be back in the ring in March. Everything’s on schedule, so we’re looking good!”

Regarding potential opponents, Wight named newly crowned AEW Tag Team Champions The Gunns. He praised them for being athletic and thinks they have a bright future.

1...463464465...3,372Page 464 of 3,372