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John Cena to Film New Movie During WWE WrestleMania 39 Season

Andrew Ravens
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John Cena was one of the names rumored to work WWE WrestleMania 39 in addition to Steve Austin and The Rock. 

With the event just over 60 days away, it’s been reported that Rock doesn’t feel like he is in good enough ring shape to work a main event match with Roman Reigns while Austin has reportedly turned down matches against Brock Lesnar and Reigns. 

For months, it’s been rumored that Cena would work Mania, but his acting schedule may keep him away from WWE television for the majority of the build up to the match itself. 

Movie Shooting

According to Variety,  the upcoming R-Rated comedy Ricky Stanicky, starring Zac Efron and the former WWE Champion will start production next month in Melbourne, Australia and run through March.

The WWE PLE is scheduled for April 1-2 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. This filming schedule won’t prevent Cena from working the show. It’s possible that he will film segments that he can send to WWE to build up whatever they have planned for him. 

His rumored opponent is current United States Champion Austin Theory, who dropped references to Cena on recent episodes of Raw. Theory reportedly filmed a backstage segment while Cena was in town for the December 30 edition of SmackDown in Tampa, FL where Cena came back to work a tag team match with Kevin Owens for a win over Reigns and Zayn. 

 Theory has been pushing for a match with Cena for years.

Samoa Joe Discusses Being Fired By WWE Twice

Jon Fuentes
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Samoa Joe has opened up on having been fired by WWE twice.

The All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star recently joined Renee Paquette on her podcast, The Sessions, to talk about a variety of topics. During the show, Joe talked about his two experiences being let go from WWE, and the opportunities that followed.

“Initially, as I understand it, unconfirmed, there were issues between the two upper echelons of management and they were playing out their war with the careers and contracts of the people underneath them.

“After the initial one, I didn’t have much of a chance to breathe because, essentially, I was hired back within hours. The second time, I just kind of chuckled as I realize it was very much the same situation. At the same time, I wasn’t bitter or mad. The truth of it is, and this is to give WWE some credence, is that I was expensive.

“I was expensive to keep around. If cutting my contract, if they say that saved the company money, trust me, I believe it did. I wasn’t hot about that. It was just more the silliness of the situation, what they were doing, and the reasoning why they were doing it, which I can never officially confirm, but I’ve heard from enough people that I have a pretty good idea…including many of the people involved.

“After that, I think I spent a day pissed. More of the situation than the actual firing. Then, all these super awesome opportunities literally materialized.” 

Samoa Joe AEW

After making a name for himself on the independent circuit and with promotions such as IMPACT Wrestling, Joe finally debuted for WWE in 2015 by joining NXT. After becoming a multi-time NXT Champion, Joe eventually got called up to the main roster in 2017.

Joe was just as impactful on the main roster, challenging the likes of Brock Lesnar for the Universal Title and becoming a two-time United States Champion. Unfortunately, Joe’s run inside the ring would be hindered by injuries.

He’d get stints on the RAW commentary desk for some time but was first released in April of 2021. Joe was signed back to WWE as part of NXT yet again later that year but was again released shortly after in the beginning of 2022.

Quotes via NoDQ.com

Tyson Fury Hoping For WWE Return ‘Soon’

Jon Fuentes
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Tyson Fury sounds eager to get back into the WWE ring.

Fury has worked with WWE before and is a big fan of the professional wrestling juggernaut. Speaking in a recent interview with GiveMeSport, Fury explained that he’s hoping to get back in the WWE ring soon, claiming he has heard the company is planning a Clash At The Castle II event coming up.

“I’m hoping to get back in there soon,” Fury said. “They’re doing Clash at the Castle 2 soon I think so I’m looking at maybe getting back in there. I’m looking at taking that heavyweight title for sure. If Roman Reigns vacates or something then maybe me and Drew can finally get that battle on.”

Fury first worked with WWE back in 2019 when he faced off against Braun Strowman at WWE Crown Jewel. The boxing World Champion won the contest via count out.

Tyson Fury
Tyson Fury

WWE would love to work with Fury again, and more often, however, it has been reported that Fury is banned from entering the United States due to alleged ties with suspected Irish Mafia boss Daniel Kinahan.

With that being said, Fury has since denied having any involvement with Kinahan or his alleged activities.

Kota Ibushi to Debut for GCW Over WrestleMania Weekend

Michael Reichlin
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Game Changer Wrestling has announced that New Japan Pro Wrestling star Kota Ibushi will return to the ring and debut for GCW next month. It all goes down over ‘WrestleMania Goes Hollywood’ weekend from Los Angeles as part of GCW’s The Collective 2023.

Ibushi last competed on October 10, 2021 when he faced (and lost to) Kazuchika Okada in the G1 Climax 2021 Final. He’s been out of action with a shoulder injury and also had a public falling-out with NJPW during that time.

Ibushi will be appearing for GCW on two shows:

Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport 9
Thursday March 30, 4pm

Joey Janela’s Spring Break 7
Friday, March 31, 8pm

image 21
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Both events will stream live on FITE+ from the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Los Angeles, California. If you’ll be in town WrestleMania weekend, visit Eventbrite to buy tickets for the GCW events.

Click here for more information on additional talent announced for GCW The Collective 2023.

The Rock Not Competing at WrestleMania 39 “Not a Work” – Door Remains Open for 2024 (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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Is Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson being honest when he says that he doesn’t feel he’s ready for a match at WrestleMania 39?

In a word, yes.

For years, fans have speculated on a possible match between the People’s Champion and his cousin Roman Reigns.

It was reported last year that WWE was actively pursuing the match for this year’s WrestleMania 39 event.

Not a Work

Earlier this month, it was reported that Johnson had informed WWE that he did not feel like he could get in an adequate ring shape in time for WrestleMania.

Of course, this statement has caused fans to believe he is going to compete, and that this claim is just to try and throw fans off the proverbial ‘scent.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that when The Rock says he’s not wrestling, he means it.

“Dwayne could be there [WrestleMania 39 in Los Angeles, California] in some form or fashion. I mean there are some people going ‘don’t you think it’s a swerve?’ It’s not a swerve. I mean I’ve been told this for a while. Of course, there’s always the idea that maybe, there’s a secret. Like the Pat McAfee thing [referencing the commentator’s return at last Saturday’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event.] Only a few people know about that. But we’re past that point.

“Cody won the Royal Rumble, he’s getting that championship match. It ain’t going to be Dwayne anymore.”

Dave Meltzer.

Other Plans

The Rock could still appear at WWE’s showcase of the immortals, even if a match is off the table.

On his show, Meltzer reiterated that Johnson will not be wrestling at WrestleMania 39, but said the option remains open for down the line.

“Dwayne’s not wrestling anyone else on this show. Unless it’s a three-second match like he did with [Erick Rowan at WrestleMania 32.] He could go do that. He could do an angle if he wants to. But he did not feel like he had the time [to prepare for a match.] Which is basically what the story was. He did not feel that he had the time to get in the shape he needed to be in to do a WrestleMania-caliber main event. And the door is open for next year, if he has more time.”

“The door is open for next year, if he has more time.”

Johnson’s seven-second win over Rowan in 2016 was an attempt for the Brahma Bull to set the record for the fastest victory at a WrestleMania.

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin has Turned Down Offer for WrestleMania 39 Match (Report)

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

‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin has Turned Down Offer for WrestleMania 39 Match (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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It seems like WrestleMania 39 will come and go without a match from ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, despite his impressive showing last year.

At WrestleMania 38, Austin competed in his first match since March 2003, defeating Kevin Owens in the main event of WrestleMania: Saturday.

It has been reported that WWE was trying to coax Austin into another match this year, with names like Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar being considered opponents.

Not Happening

With WrestleMania 39 drawing closer, WWE has yet to give any indication that Austin will compete at the show.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that Austin has no intention on competing this April.

“They did talk about Austin. As far as Austin goes, Steve might be at the show. I mean I wouldn’t be surprised at all. He might do something on the show, but he did in fact turn down wrestling at the show. He was offered Brock Lesnar, he was offered Roman Reigns. Probably, he could have named his opponent if he wanted to do it with anybody else. But he did not choose to wrestle on the show.”

Dave Meltzer.

Austin at WrestleMania

If a match isn’t happening for the Rattlesnake, that doesn’t mean that Austin won’t be featured at WrestleMania.

As one of (if not the) biggest stars in wrestling, WWE would be wise to have Austin on the show, even if he doesn’t wrestle.

Austin has proven himself to be a referee at WrestleMania, officiating Brock Lesnar Vs. Goldberg (WrestleMania 20,) and Jerry Lawler vs Michael Cole (WrestleMania 27.)

The Texas Rattlesnake could also serve as a guest host, as we saw by The Rock (WrestleMania 27,) Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania 30,) Alexa Bliss (WrestleMania 35), and the combination of Hogan and Titus O’Neil (WrestleMania 37.)

Kevin Owens on His WrestleMania Match With Steve Austin: ‘I Still Don’t Know How That Happened’

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

WWE Royal Rumble 2023 Main Event Was A “Curtain Sellout” Backstage

Thomas Lowson
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Sami Zayn’s turn at the end of Royal Rumble 2023 captivated the 51,000+ fans in the Alamodome, millions watching worldwide, and the WWE roster and crew.

In the main event, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns retained his title against Kevin Owens, and the Bloodline continued their beatdown post-match.

When Zayn refused to attack his best friend, he instead struck Reigns with a steel chair, and was beaten down by the Bloodline (sans Jey Uso) for his insubordination.

Curtain Sellout

The main event of WWE Royal Rumble 2023 and what transpired after the match has been heralded by many as some of the company’s best storytelling in years.

The segment was also a hit backstage, with Fightful Select reporting that it was a “curtain sellout” with wrestlers and the crew gathering around monitors to see what happened.

It has been reported that WWE’s plan for this angle will see Zayn challenge the Tribal Chief at next month’s WWE Elimination Chamber event, in Sami’s hometown of Montreal.

During this week’s Raw, 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match winner Cody Rhodes confirmed his plans to challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 39.

Rumble Backstage

After the disaster of last year’s Royal Rumble (which resulted in Shane McMahon being fired) a lot was riding on this year’s event.

Fightful adds that the mood backstage was “very laid back” and that the children of several wrestlers were having fun behind the scenes.

The WWE Royal Rumble Premium Live Event went a bit over time, as it was scheduled for four hours and lasted four hours and 12 minutes.

Pat McAfee Was Originally Supposed to Return in WWE Royal Rumble Match

Bianca Belair’s WrestleMania Opponent Will Be Decided in the Elimination Chamber

Thomas Lowson
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Six WWE Superstars will fight next month inside the Elimination Chamber, with a prize of WrestleMania-sized proportions on the line

During this week’s Raw, 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Rhea Ripley announced that she will face SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair this April.

Ripley explained that she plans on getting payback for Flair defeating her at WrestleMania 36, and winning the NXT Women’s Championship in the process.

Elimination Chamber

Ripley Vs. Flair is set for WrestleMania 39, which leaves Bianca Belair without a dance partner for the biggest event of the year.

During Raw, it was confirmed that Belair’s WrestleMania opponent will be decided inside the Elimination Chamber next month.

Adam Pearce named four women who have already qualified by being the four final women in the Women’s Royal Rumble match: Raquel Rodriguez, Asuka, Liv Morgan, and Nikki Cross.

Next week, another spot will be filled when Candice LeRae, Piper Niven, Mia ‘Michin’ Yim, and the returning Carmella, compete in fatal four-way action.

Women’s Elimination Chamber

Originally a match-type solely for the men-folk, it wouldn’t be until 2018 that fans saw their first Women’s Elimination Chamber match.

At the 2018 Elimination Chamber event, Raw Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss would step into the structure with the gold and would also leave as champion.

In 2019, the Boss ‘n Hug Connection became the first WWE Women’s Tag Champions, in the first (and so far, only) Women’s Tag Chamber match.

2020 saw Shayna Baszler decimate the competition, eliminating every opponent in that year’s Women’s Chamber match.

While there was no women’s Chamber match in 2021, 2022 saw Bianca Belair earn a WrestleMania Raw Women’s title match inside the barbaric structure.

Elimination Chamber Main Event Will Culminate the Top Storyline in WWE

Seth Rollins’ WrestleMania Opponent Becomes Apparent at WWE Raw

Thomas Lowson
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Seth Rollins won’t have to wait until the day of WrestleMania to find out his opponent this year, as who he’ll face this April is abundantly clear.

This year’s show will mark Rollins’ 10th WrestleMania appearance, after making his Mania debut with the Shield back at WrestleMania 29 in 2013.

WrestleMania 39

At last weekend’s Royal Rumble, Rollins hoped to win his second Men’s Rumble match (his first win coming in 2019) but that was thwarted by Logan Paul.

Rollins entered the match at #15 and scored two eliminations in his 37 minutes in the match, before being the 27th person eliminated.

In a backstage interview at Raw, Rollins was his usual confident, cocky, self, but his mood completely changed when asked about Logan Paul.

Paul has impressed so far, and Rollins is a great opponent for him, as the former Universal Champion is a veteran who can push Paul to be his best in a fast-paced match.

WrestleMania 39

It had previously been reported that WWE’s plans called for John Cena to face Logan Paul but that obviously isn’t the direction anymore.

It has been reported that scrapping the Cena-Paul match is due to the belief that Cena will not have time to train and rehearse a match with the talented, but inexperienced YouTuber.

More recent reports state that the plan now is for Cena to take on WWE United States Champion Austin Theory in the former’s first WrestleMania match since 2020, and his first non-cinematic WrestleMania match since 2018.

During this week’s Raw, it was confirmed that Cody Rhodes will challenge Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns this April.

2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match winner Rhea Ripley also declared that she will challenge SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 39.

Cody Rhodes’ WWE 2K23 Entrance Video is a Sight to Behold

Thomas Lowson
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Cody Rhodes is back in WWE and on the road to WrestleMania 39, and fans will soon get to play as the American Nightmare.

Rhodes made an emphatic return at last weekend’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, entering the men’s match at #30 and eliminating five Superstars.

Cody tossed out WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER to win the match after the Austrian broke the record for the longest time in a 30-Man Rumble match.

In the Game

Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE has been cemented with the American Nightmare’s inclusion into WWE 2K23.

On Twitter, fans caught their first glimpse of Rhodes’ entrance in the upcoming video game.

Rhodes is known as an avid video game fan, and early into his career, would include the Tri-Force from the Legend of Zelda on his ring attire.

While some had hoped that Rhodes would be included in WWE 2K22, possibly as DLC, it was said that there wasn’t enough time to include the former AEW TNT Champion.

WWE 2K23

This will (if you include WWE 2K Battleground) be the tenth installment into the WWE 2K franchise, which began with WWE 2K14.

WWE 2K23 will focus on the incredible career of John Cena, with a Showcase mode dedicated to some of the most important matches in John’s 20-year career.

The upcoming game will also see the video game debut of the WarGames match, with 3v3 and 4v4 matches available to play inside the double-cage structure.

WWE 2K23 will be released publicly on March 14, 2023 and you can pre-order the game by clicking here.

Reigns vs. Rhodes, Flair vs. Ripley Set for WWE WrestleMania 39

Rick Boogs Returns on WWE Raw, Out Since WrestleMania 38 Due to Injury

Samantha Schipman
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On tonight’s RAW, The Miz was whining about how he was eliminated from the Royal Rumble match and not getting a shot at the United States championship at Elimination Chamber.

Adam Pearce announced the newest member of the RAW roster: Rick Boogs. He wrestled Miz, who was wearing a $10,000 double-breasted suit his wife bought him.

Rick Boogs’ Return

Rick Boogs Shinsuke Nakamura
(via WWE)

At WrestleMania 38 during a match for the SmackDown tag team titles, Rick Boogs injured himself. He attempted to put both Usos on his shoulders in a fireman’s carry. Unfortunately, he tore his quadriceps.

Just weeks before WrestleMania 39, Boogs made his return to face The Miz. He easily beat the former champion in a matter of minutes.

GCW Starts to Announce Talent for The Collective 2023

Samantha Schipman
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GCW will be back with The Collective 2023 coinciding with WrestleMania 39 weekend. Shows will begin on Thursday, March 30 and end on Sunday, April 2.

There will be 10 shows and the weekend will close out with The Indie Wrestling Hall of Fame.

GCW Announcing Talent

josh barnett bloodsport

With ticket packages now on sale, GCW has began announcing talent for various shows.

Bloodsport 9 has announced the return of Timothy Thatcher.

Maki Itoh is the first wrestler announced for Joey Janela’s Spring Break 7: Californication.

El Hijo del Vikingo has been announced for two shows. He will be making his debut for Gringo Loco’s The Wrld on Lucha and at Spring Break.

https://twitter.com/JANELABABY/status/1620190049882247168?s=20&t=7oF0NHX1Z3frpkB_75ewqQ

Janela announced the first match for Spring Break in what will be a MOTY contender: El Hijo del Vikingo vs. “Speedball” Mike Bailey.

https://twitter.com/JANELABABY/status/1620248147468644352?s=20&t=lDbjuAkuQDkcj59nxxtLjA

For the Culture is returning and bringing back 2 Cold Scorpio and Bryan Keith.

EFFY’s Big Gay Brunch 6 will be “bigger, gayer, brunchier” with the announcement of THRUSSY (EFFY, Allie Katch, and Dark Sheik). Pollo Del Mar will also be returning.

Joe Lando has been announced for Jimmy Lloyd’s D-Generation F. East West Express will also be wrestling on the show.

One of the big shows during the weekend will be the first GCW vs. DDT Pro show. The popular YOSHIHIKO will be there representing DDT.




For the DDT Goes Hollywood show, talent including Konosuke Takeshita, Jun Akiyami, and Sanshiro Takagi have been announced.

One of The Collective 2023’s new shows will be the Santino Bros. Wrestling show, California Love. Bad Dude Tito, Che Cabrera, and Willie Mack are among wrestlers that will be appearing.

“Blackheart” Lio Rush will be returning to GCW Emo Fight.

Tickets are now available here. All shows will be airing on FITE TV+.



Reigns vs. Rhodes, Flair vs. Ripley Set for WWE WrestleMania 39

Andrew Ravens
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WWE has set up two of the bigger matches slated to take place at WrestleMania 39. 

On Monday’s episode of WWE Raw, it was confirmed that Roman Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Title against Cody Rhodes and Charlotte Flair will defend the SmackDown Women’s Title against Rhea Ripley. 

Rhodes won the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match while Ripley won the Women’s Royal Rumble Match this past Saturday night. 

The Segments

In the opening segment of the show, Rhodes name-dropped Reigns in his post-Royal Rumble victory promo by noting that they will clash at Mania. He vowed to become the Undisputed WWE Champion Universal Champion. 

Later in the show, Rhea did a promo segment where it was hyped whether she would challenge Flair for the top prize for the women on SmackDown or challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Title. Ripley decided to go to the blue brand and Flair’s title. This is a rematch from WrestleMania 36 where Flair retained the NXT Women’s Title over Ripley. 

WrestleMania 39 is scheduled to be held as a two-night event, taking place on April 1 and 2, 2023, at SoFi Stadium in LA. 

WWE RAW Results (1/30/23): Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley Address Rumble Wins & More

Colby Faria
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The post-Royal Rumble edition of Monday Night RAW goes down (1/30/23) from the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma! We’ll hear from the Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes as well as the Women’s Rumble winner Rhea Ripley.

WWE’s next premium live event is Elimination Chamber, which will feature Austin Theory’s United States Championship on the line. The US Title match will be up for grabs in the chamber, with competitors to be determined via qualifying matches.

The show begins and we’re shown a video package of Saturday night’s Royal Rumble premium live event.

We then cut to the arena and the winner of the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match, Cody Rhodes’ music hits! ‘The American Nightmare’ makes his way down to the ring and asks everyone ‘so…what do you wanna talk about?’ which gets a laugh from the fans in attendance. Cody says he’s not the man he was when he first started in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) and remembering that he thought he was going to be the next John Cena. Cody says if he told his younger self that he was going to go through everything that he’s gone through, he wouldn’t have believed it. Cody says that even if he knew all of what he was about to go through, he never would’ve told his younger self about it because it’s made him who he is today and he’s loved every second of it. Cody says the beginning of his theme song is true, wrestling has more than one royal family, but for it to be true, he has to stand across from an entire bloodline…and The Tribal Chief. Cody calls Roman Reigns the LeBron James of professional wrestling, which gets a loud ‘Roman sucks’ chant from the crowd. Cody says there are 62 days until WrestleMania 39 but on that night, it ends and on that night, somebody else is going to be eating. Cody says after WrestleMania, Roman can still be The Tribal Chief, and the Head of the Table, but one thing he won’t be is the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Cody’s about to exit but the lights go out and The Judgment Day’s theme sounds. Finn Balor, Dominik Mysterio, and Damian Priest make their way down to the ring and Finn asks if Cody plans on doing anything original or if he’s going to continue copying everything he’s (Finn) done before. Dominik says Cody ruined The Judgment Day’s plans for the Royal Rumble because Rhea Ripley did her job and won the Women’s Rumble match but he (Dominik) was supposed to win the Men’s Rumble match. Dominik says Cody ruined his moment this past Saturday and if he tried to do that in prison, he would’ve ‘got got’. Damian says Dominik should be the only multi generational superstar to headline WrestleMania not some ‘suck up’ like Cody. Damian says Rhea earned her spot at WrestleMania by winning from number one unlike Cody who got ‘handed’ the 30th entry. Dominik says that Cody owes him an apology for ruining his moment but Cody interrupts him and says he doesn’t want to run the risk of pissing The Judgment Day off. Cody asks Dominik if he’s trying to scare him straight and says he has an immense amount of respect for Dominik’s father, Rey. Dominik says he doesn’t have any respect for Rey, or anyone else’s dad…including Cody’s. The crowd chants ‘kick his a**’ and Cody says it’s 62 days until WrestleMania, so he can try and play it safe and stay healthy…or he could be himself and kick Dominik’s a**. Cody says it doesn’t matter if it’s Dominik, Finn, or Damian, he wants to fight someone tonight.

Cody’s music hits and our commentary team of Kevin Patrick and Corey Graves run down tonight’s card but Edge’s music hits out of nowhere and he attacks The Judgment Day from behind! Officials and security come down to break up the fight, Cody helps Edge and joins the attack and we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and we see United States Champion Austin Theory arriving to the arena, earlier tonight and it’s announced that Theory will be the special guest in the VIP Lounge with MVP, later tonight. It’s also announced that Cody Rhodes will face Finn Balor in tonight’s main event.

Seth Rollins vs. Chad Gable (with Otis) – Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match

Gable trips Rollins to the mat and immediately goes for an ankle lock but Rollins slides himself to the ropes to force the break. Gable plants Rollins with a rolling German suplex into a cover but Rollins kicks out. Rollins slides out of the ring, Gable follows him out and nails him with a senton, then tosses Rollins back into the ring, goes up top and flattens Rollins with a diving head-butt before another cover but Rollins lifts the shoulders after a two-count and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Rollins lights Gable up with some chops to the chest. Gable regains control with a dragon screw in the corner and goes up top, looking for the moonsault but Rollins slides out of the way. Rollins tosses Gable into the corner with a buckle-bomb and both competitors struggle back to their feet, Rollins rolls Gable into a pin attempt but Gable kicks out. Gable crushes Rollins with an inverted DDT and goes for there cover but Rollins lifts the shoulders at two and a half. Rollins goes for an enziguri but Gable catches the leg and locks in the ankle lock. Rollins rolls out and kicks Gable back, Gable rolls into another ankle lock, but Rollins rolls out and kicks Gable back. Gable locks in another ankle lock, Rollins rolls out and into a pedigree and plants Gable for the 1-2-3!

Winner – Seth Rollins

A graphic is shown hyping up the Elimination Chamber premium live event, which goes down two weeks from next Saturday LIVE from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada and we head to a commercial break.

IYO SKY (with Bayley & Dakota Kai) vs. Candice LeRae (with Michin)

Candice with a roll-up, IYO kicks out, Candice lands a standing stomp and goes for another cover but IYO kicks out once again. IYO plants Candice with a slam and applies a head-lock. Candice powers her way out of the hold and drills IYO with a sliding kick to the face. IYO rolls to the outside to recover but Candice flattens her with a baseball slide under the bottom rope. IYO trips Candice to the floor, rushes back into the ring, and cracks Candice with a cross-body through the middle rope and onto the floor. Candice kicks IYO out of the ring and springboards off of the middle rope and nails IYO with a cross-body of her own to the outside and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Candice nails IYO with a drop-kick then goes for the cover but IYO lifts the shoulders at two. IYO sends Candice into the corner and cracks her with running double knees. IYO goes up top but Candice chases after her and sends IYO to the mat with a middle rope German suplex before going for the pin but IYO kicks out. Candice plants IYO with a poison-rana out of nowhere and combos it into a pin but IYO lifts the shoulders at two and a half! Candice puts IYO on the top turnbuckle and goes up top with her but IYO knocks her to the mat and goes for her patented moonsault but Candice gets the knees up and rolls IYO into a cover but Bayley and Kai at ringside distract the referee and IYO has enough time to kick out. Candice goes for a springboard off the middle rope but Bayley distracts her and IYO rolls Candice up with a sunset flip for the 1-2-3!

Winner – IYO SKY

After the match, commentary announces that Rhea Ripley will announce who she’ll face at WrestleMania 39 following her Women’s Royal Rumble match victory, this past weekend, after the break.

Back from the break and the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match, Rhea Ripley of The Judgment Day makes her way down to the ring. Rhea says she entered the Royal Rumble first and outlasted every single woman in the match to earn the right to call her shot for WrestleMania 39. Rhea says three-years ago, she just turned 24-years-old and was the NXT Women’s Champion, when she came to Monday Night RAW and challenged Charlotte Flair for a match at WrestleMania…and Charlotte put her in her place. Rhea says no matter how much Charlotte accomplishes, she gets better and better every single year. Rhea says a lot in WWE changes but the one constant is Charlotte Flair is always at the top…but she’s the disruptor and doesn’t like the norm. Rhea advises Charlotte to enjoy everyone bowing down to the Queen because they’re about to rise to Rhea Ripley. Rhea says at WrestleMania, she’s going to put Charlotte in her place and officially chooses Charlotte Flair and the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 39!

We then head backstage and Cathy Kelly is with Seth Rollins. ‘The Architect’ says he’s going to defeat Austin Theory and everyone else in the elimination chamber to become the United States Champion and will defend his title at WrestleMania. Cathy asks Seth about Logan Paul eliminating him during the Men’s Royal Rumble match, this past Saturday night and Seth just walks off as we head to a commercial break.

Johnny Gargano (with Dexter Lumis) vs. Baron Corbin (with JBL) — Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match

Corbin plants Gargano with a slam to start. Corbin crushes Gargano with a back-breaker and goes for the cover but Gargano lifts the shoulders at two. Corbin goes for another slam, Gargano slides behind and blocks a Corbin lariat attempt that sends Corbin to the outside. Gargano nails Corbin with a drop-kick on the outside but Corbin wallops Gargano with a right hook to the face. Corbin rolls to the outside and sends Gargano ribs-first into the barricade as we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Corbin is controlling Gargano in the center of the ring. Corbin starts hammering Gargano with elbows to the side of the head then goes for the cover but Gargano kicks out. Gargano drills Corbin with a spear out of nowhere and goes for a pin of his own but Corbin lifts the shoulders after a two-count. Gargano nails Corbin with a pair of super-kicks then goes for another cover but Corbin once again kicks out just in the nick of time. Gargano lands an enziguri but Corbin grounds the former NXT Champion with a leg sweep. Gargano launches Corbin out of the ring and crushes him with a diving cross-body through the middle rope. JBL tosses the cover fo the commentary table in frustration and Dexter Lumis chases him off with an axe. Lumis puts the axe through JBL’s cowboy hat and back in the ring, Gargano slips out of the End of Days and locks Corbin up in a cradle to get the three-count!

Winner – Johnny Gargano

Johnny Gargano will join Champion Austin Theory and Seth Rollins, who qualified earlier tonight in the United States Championship Elimination Chamber match at the namesake premium live event in less than three weeks. More qualifying matches will occur over the next two weeks to determine the three other competitors in the match.

It’s announced that the aforementioned United States Champion Austin Theory will join MVP in the VIP Lounge, after the break.

Back from the break and MVP is in the ring to welcome us to the VIP Lounge. MVP introduces his special guest of the evening, United States Champion Austin Theory. The US Champion makes his way down to the ring and before MVP can even get started, Theory proposes a name change for the show and offers up ‘Austin Theory LIVE’…MVP sarcastically agrees and welcomes everyone to ‘Austin Theory LIVE’ and a massive chorus of boos echo throughout the BOK Center. MVP says while Theory is the champion, he may not be after the elimination chamber match in two weeks. Theory calls out MVP for saying Bobby Lashley was going to defeat him last week. MVP says he stands by his comments and Theory asks to change subjects to the upcoming elimination chamber match. Theory says he’s still standing there champion and he’s the ruthlessness that the new generation needs and no amount of aggression can stop him, not even the grueling elimination chamber. MVP says he was also once a young, brash United States Champion and he understands that Theory is scared beyond belief but he’s doing a great job of hiding it. MVP wants Theory that he doesn’t know who will be in the chamber, so he needs to be careful. MVP recalls himself being thrown off the top of one of the chamber pods in the past by The Undertaker and says that Bobby Lashley is more dangerous than Taker and Theory needs to be careful. MVP says while he and Lashley are no longer business partners, he can’t speak on Bobby’s behalf but he knows what Bobby’s capable of and he’s worried about Theory’s health. Theory says he’s worried about Lashley and MVP’s health and MVP better protect his ‘meal ticket’ (Lashley) because Lashley is about to be taken out by Brock Lesnar. Lashley’s music hits and out comes the former WWE and United States Champion. Theory tells Lashley to listen to his ‘daddy’ MVP but Lashley’s heard enough and attacks Theory. Lashley lines Theory up for a spear but the champion slides out of the way and Lashley accidentally cracks MVP as Theory scurries off.

We then head backstage where Byron Saxton is with Finn Balor, Rhea Ripley, Damian Priest, and Dominik Mysterio of The Judgment Day. Finn says Cody keeps taking everything from him and tonight, he puts a stop to Cody and everything he’s done since he’s come back.

We see a special preview for Dave Bautista newest film ‘Knock at The Cabin’ and we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and The Miz is in the ring. Miz says he got dealt an unfair hand at the Royal Rumble and says he was bullied by people all weekend long, even at the airport. Miz tells everyone to stop chanting and says he deserves an opportunity to qualify for the elimination chamber match but as always, he wasn’t treated with respect. Miz says until jets given matches that deserve his ‘star power’, he’s going to keep on calling management out. WWE official Adam Pearce comes out and says he has someone backstage banging on his office door begging for a match against The Miz. Pearce introduces the newest member of Monday Night RAW, Rick Boogs! The former guitar player for Shinsuke Nakamura is now on the red brand and he makes his way down to the ring. Miz asks Pearce if he really should be in a match against Boogs and says he’s wearing a $10,000 suit that his wife bought him and he’s in no shape to compete. Pearce says too bad and Miz needs to prove that he’s ‘awesome’ and a referee rushes down to the ring, the bell sounds, and this one is officially underway!

The Miz vs. Rick Boogs

Boogs launches Miz to the corner and unloads shot after shot on the former grand slam champion. Boogs slams Miz to the mat and flattens him with a press slam for the 1-2-3 and the quick win!

Winner – Rick Boogs

We then see Mace and Mansoor, alongside Maxxine Dupri backstage. Otis approaches and walks by the Maximum Male Models, Mace and Mansoor mock Otis but Maxxine says Otis is ‘perfect’ and we head to a commercial break.

Back from the break and we see a video package highlighting the break-up of The Bloodline from the Royal Rumble this past Saturday night.

We’re back to the live show and Bayley is in the ring. Bayley says everybody is talking about how she, IYO SKY, and Dakota Kai took out Becky Lynch last week on RAW XXX. Bayley says Damage CTRL dominated the Women’s Royal Rumble match for the most part and her personal favorite part of the match was when she single-handily eliminated Becky. Bayley says she can finally move past Becky but ‘The Man’s’ music hits and out comes the former champion. Becky calls Bayley a ‘stupid fool’ and says they’re not done until she says they are. Becky says she’s already won the Royal Rumble and doesn’t need to prove herself but she just wanted to make sure that Bayley and the rest of Damage CTRL didn’t win the match. Becky says Bayley, IYO, and Dakota robbed the fans of a steel cage match because she knows that Becky is better than her. Bayley says she doesn’t care that it’s Becky’s birthday because she’s not ‘these idiots’ (pointing to the crowd) and says that she knows Becky…and doesn’t like her. Bayley calls Becky overrated and says she’s not good enough to be champion again, or even good enough for her husband, Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins. Bayley says the only reason Seth married her is because he ‘knocked’ her up. Becky says this whole time she thought they were only fighting over wrestling but whatever it is that Bayley has against her started all the way back in NXT in Orlando, Florida. Becky proposes that they finish it where it all started since Monday Night RAW is in Orlando, next week. Bayley says no, Becky says she figured Bayley would say no and says she’ll be right back. Becky goes backstage and drags Dakota Kai out to the stage and holds Dakota hostage until Bayley accepts her challenge. Becky has a steel chair and is about to hit Dakota with it but Bayley accepts Becky’s challenge. Becky says Bayley can bring Damage CTRL with her but she may want to go check on IYO in the back. It looks like we’ll see Becky Lynch and Bayley battle it out inside of a steel cage next Monday night on RAW!

It’s announced that Bronson Reed will face Dolph Ziggler in an elimination chamber qualifying match after the break.

Back from the break and Adam Pearce is backstage with Cathy Kelley. Pearce announces that Becky Lynch vs. Bayley’s steel cage match is now official for next week. He also announces that there will be a women’s chamber match at Elimination Chamber and the winner will face Bianca Belair for the RAW Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 39. Pearce says the first four women for the match have already qualified as they were the final four competitors from this past Saturdays Women’s Royal Rumble match (sans Rhea Ripley). Which means that Asuka, Raquel Rodriguez, Liv Morgan, and Nikki Cross will compete in the elimination chamber match. Pearce says next Monday night on RAW, Michin, Candice LeRae, Piper Niven, and Carmella will square off in a fatal-four-way to determine another errant in the chamber match. Chelsea Green pops up and asks Pearce if he’s ‘the manager’. Green says she’s not just another women on the roster and she deserves special treatment and she expects what happened to her at the Rumble to be fixed ‘immediately’. Pearce and Green walk off and it’s time for our next match of the night.

Bronson Reed vs. Dolph Ziggler — Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match

Reed slams Ziggler to start. Ziggler knocks Reed back and drills him with a super-kick and goes for the cover but Reed kicks out. Ziggler lays into Reed with some knees to the side of the head and looks for a leg drop but Reed catches him and plants him with a slam. Reed goes up top and crushes Ziggler with his patented ‘Tsunami’ and gets the 1-2-3!

Winner – Bronson Reed

Bronson Reed will join Seth Rollins, Johnny Gargano, and champion Austin Theory with two other competitors yet to qualify in the United States Championship Elimination Chamber match at the namesake premium live event in two weeks.

We then head to a commercial break after it’s announced that we’ll hear from RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair after the break.

Back from the break, Cathy Kelley is backstage and introduces Carmella, who’s back from a near eight month break. Carmella says she’s the Princess of Staten Island and she’s back…and it won’t be long before she’s back on top as she’s going to win the fatal-four-way match next week and will qualify for the elimination chamber match. Asuka walks in and Carmella says Asuka isn’t ready for Carmella but Asuka just laughs with green mist falling out of her mouth and Carmella scurries off in disgust.

We then see a video package showing Rick Boogs’ injury at WrestleMania 38 before his return earlier tonight against The Miz. Boogs is with Montez Ford, Angelo Dawkins, and Elias in the locker room. Byron Saxton approaches and asks Boogs how it feels to be back in front of the WWE Universe. Boogs screams in excitement and says it’s official, Rick Boogs is back. Ford calls Boogs a ‘maniac’ but says he loves his energy. Now the Street Profits and Boogs are all screaming in excitement but Elias says to calm down a bit. Ford tells Boogs to go get dressed because they’re going out to celebrate. Saxton announces that next week, Angelo Dawkins will face Damian Priest and Montez Ford will face Elias in US Title Elimination Chamber match qualifying matches. Ford says it’s pure business, Elias says things will turn around for him next week and it’s unfortunate that it’ll have to be at the mercy of Ford. Dawkins says he’s going to be the next US Champion and everyone bickers until we head to a commercial break ahead of our main event of the evening.

Cody Rhodes vs. Finn Balor (with Rhea Ripley, Damian Priest, and Dominik Mysterio)

Cody takes control early and flattens Finn with a massive suplex and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Finn is in control. The first-ever Universal Champion nails Cody with a sliding kick to the face and goes for the cover but Cody kicks out. Finn stomps on Cody’s surgically repaired right pectoral and continues to work over the area. Cody trips Finn and connects with the Disaster Kick which causes Finn to spill to the outside. Cody drops Finn with a diving cross-body through the middle rope and onto the outside. Cody takes out both Priest and Dominik on the outside, tosses Finn back into the ring, and goes for the cover but Finn lifts the shoulders after a two-count. Cody goes for the Cody Cutter but Finn catches him and plants him with an inverted DDT before going for the cover but Cody kicks out and we head to a commercial break. Back from the break and Cody nails Finn with a super-plex off of the top turnbuckle. Both competitors struggle to their feet and the pair exchange strikes in the middle of the ring. Cody plants Finn with the Cody Cutter and goes for the cover but Balor lifts the shoulders at two and a half. Cody looks for Cross Rhodes, Finn nails Cody with a sling-blade, Cody comes back with a super-kick and goes for the cover but Finn kicks out. Finn with an inside cradle but Cody spins out but Finn dumps him to the outside as The Judgment Day circle ‘The American Nightmare’. Edge comes flying down to the stairs through the crowd and he crushes Dominik with a spear. Rhea Ripley attacks Edge but Beth Pheonix rushes down and takes out Rhea as the action in the ring resumes. Finn nails Cody with a standing double-stomp, then a drop-kick to the corner, and goes to the top turnbuckle. Edge gets on the apron, Finn gets distracted and misses the Coup de Grace, Cody hits a trio of Cross Rhodes’ and gets the 1-2-3 for the win!

Winner – Cody Rhodes

We then see highlights from the match, Edge and Beth look on from the stage with smirks on their face, The Judgment Day are all recovering around the ringside area, and Cody is in the ring saluting Edge and Beth before celebrating as the show goes off the air.

Charlotte Flair Thinks She Was The Glue That Made WrestleMania 35 Headliner Come Together

Andrew Ravens
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WWE made history in 2019 when they had Charlotte Flair, Ronda Rousey, and Becky Lynch work a triple threat match with the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Titles on the line in the headliner of WrestleMania 35. 

It was a winner take all match. The original bout was Lynch vs. Rousey, but Charlotte was inserted into the match by Vince McMahon. 

Flair recently appeared on Busted Open Radio where she discussed the bout. She agreed with the sentiment that she was the glue in the match. 

The Match

“Yes, I do. You have this hot babyface, Becky Lynch, that the fans love. You’ve got this woman [Rousey] who paved the way and showed that women could main event pay-per-view in UFC. I definitely feel like I made it all come together. Yes, the narrative is fun to say that I was shoe-horned or however the inside circle wants to talk about me, but I know what my purpose was. Looking back now, I’m okay with that.”

Flair continued by noting that she had never put down other talent to prop herself up but sees the constant hate from fans towards her. She said that despite the hate, no one will be able to take away the accolade of headlining WrestleMania. 

Lynch went over to win both titles while Rousey went on hiatus to start a family before returning in January 2022. 

H/T to Fightful for the transcription

Pat McAfee Was Originally Supposed to Return in WWE Royal Rumble Match

Andrew Ravens
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Pat McAfee has commented on what WWE originally had planned for him at the Royal Rumble where he made his surprise return. 

The SmackDown announcer revealed today on his radio show that he was supposed to be in the men’s Royal Rumble match. He had been away since last September due to his commitments to ESPN’s College GameDay

He said his goal was to enter the Rumble match but decided against it because he felt he wasn’t in good enough shape to do so.  

The Moment

“A lot of people thought I was going to be in the Royal Rumble, a lot of people thought that I was going to be there. That was not figured out until late last week. I mean, that really came together pretty quick. Not that there was any bad relations or anything, it’s just my schedule for the last five months and everybody’s schedule, especially in WWE… My wife’s pregnant, with what the schedule was… There was no bad beef or anything. It was just like ‘I don’t want to have to train enough to go into that Royal [Rumble].’

McAfee stated that when he left, the company thought the Rumble was the perfect time to return. 

“They said immediately, Hunter and everybody and Nick, and Stephanie at the time, were like, ‘You know, Rumble, that’s like a perfect time to come back because that’s when people come back, and it’s after college football season or whatever.’ And I was like ‘perfect, alright’ because I actually need something to keep me in shape. I always get fat. I actually need something to keep working out for and I tried. Everybody saw me, I was getting after it there.”

McAfee praised Kevin Dunn and other people in WWE for keeping his return a secret. He had also kept his return a secret from Michael Cole, who has become good friends with the former NFL punter. 

McAfee also noted that he had an issue with his plan and other travel arrangements had to be made so he arrived to the venue less than 30 minutes before the event started. 

H/T to F4Wonline.com

Austin Theory’s US Championship will be Defended Inside the Elimination Chamber

Michael Reichlin
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Austin Theory will defend his United States Championship inside the Elimination Chamber at WWE’s next premium live event. Byron Saxton announced the news late Monday afternoon.

The first Elimination Chamber qualifying matches will begin tonight on Raw. Seth Rollins faces Chad Gable and Baron Corbin battles Johnny Gargano to determine who will fill the second and third spots in match.

Aside from the men’s Elimination Chamber match, the event is also expected to see a women’s Chamber match, as well as Roman Reigns defending the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Based on what transpired at the Royal Rumble, Sami Zayn is almost certainly Reigns’ next challenger.

WWE Elimination Chamber takes place Saturday, February 18 from Montreal, Quebec, Canada at the Bell Centre (formerly known as Molson Centre).

Kurt Angle: Seth Rollins Should Be Where Roman Reigns Is

Jon Fuentes
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WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle believes WWE should utilize Seth Rollins more.

Angle recently took to his podcast, “The Kurt Angle Show,” and was asked about who he’d like to share the ring with if he got to have one last match. The Olympic Gold medalist chose Seth Rollins as a prime option, heaping a ton of praise on “The Architect.”

In fact, Angle explained that he doesn’t believe WWE utilizes Rollins to his potential, believing he should be in a similar spot to that of Roman Reigns.

“I really, really like Seth Rollins. I love the character he’s doing right now, the flamboyant thing,” Angle said. “He is such a great wrestler, such a great talent. I know the company has utilized him a lot the past couple of years. But I think they don’t utilize him enough. I think he should be where Roman Reigns is  — on top all of the time.”

Rollins participated in this past weekend’s Men’s Royal Rumble match and put on quite the performance. However, he was eventually eliminated by Logan Paul. Rollins is still featured as one of the top stars on Monday Night RAW at the moment.

With WrestleMania 39 right around the corner, it will be interesting to see what plans the professional wrestling juggernaut have in store for the former World Champion at “The Show Of Shows.”

Quotes via WrestleZone

Cody Rhodes Praises Nick Khan & Bruce Prichard as “Angels”

Jon Fuentes
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Cody Rhodes has nothing but praise for WWE’s Nick Khan and Bruce Prichard.

As noted, Rhodes won this year’s 2023 Royal Rumble match, punching his ticket to WrestleMania this April. Rhodes made his return in the match after missing several months due to a torn pectoral muscle.

While he was away, Rhodes admitted in a post-Rumble interview with Ariel Helwani that he did, indeed, have doubts before making his return. However, those were dispelled thanks to support from the likes of Nick Khan and Bruce Prichard.

“I was embarrassed, I really was. I was on top of my game. All the measurables of, ‘this is working, we’re selling this, people are tuning in.’ I’m doing it. Then I got hurt bench pressing at my gym. Probably a lot of wrestling was involved in that, but I didn’t know. I was just embarrassed. I’m really sorry. I am.

“I didn’t want to leave. I had almost a 30-minute match and then had to go get surgery. I was embarrassed. That was one time where I thought, ‘I’m worried now. Maybe I don’t have it.’ Everyone has doubts, even the most confident people. Maybe I didn’t have it. I’ll tell you two people that really kept me in check, Nick Khan and Bruce Prichard. I don’t know why they have reputations.

“They’ve been nothing but angels to me. Nick and Bruce don’t see Dusty (Rhodes) when they see me, they see me. That’s big. That’s big with me. They kept me on and never told me, ‘You’re going to do this, this is going to happen.’ Just, ‘get better, get well, we need you back, we’re going to go for it,’ but we never talked about what it was. To be able to come back and punch this ticket, Thank God, just have to stay healthy.” 

Cody Rhodes

Now after winning the Rumble, Rhodes will likely go on to headline WrestleMania opposite Roman Reigns for one of his two World Titles. Rhodes has been adamant that his biggest goal upon his WWE return is to win the World Title for the first time in his career.

It will be interesting to see if he can make it happen this year at “The Show Of Shows.”

Quotes via NoDQ.com

Kevin Nash Explains Why He Did Not Accept An Invitation To RAW 30

Ella Jay
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Last Monday, WWE celebrated its 30th anniversary of RAW with a showcase of memories and moments from the past.

Amidst the festivities, several legends appeared backstage and in front of the live crowd, including The Undertaker, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, D-Generation X, and many more. Through the sea of former superstars, one name was notably missing: Kevin Nash.

Nash, a founding member of the NWO, recently confirmed he received an invitation to RAW 30, but ultimately declined it.

“Mr. [Bruce] Prichard reached out and asked if I would like to come,” he recalled on Kliq This. “I just said, it’s a really long day to go to TV when you’re doing something, actually on the active roster and going to have a match or a segment. It’s like building the pyramids if you’re going to be playing a hand of cards.”

RAW 30 “Not Worth The Aggravation”

Kevin Nash

Though he is friends with DX, Kevin Nash believes he wouldn’t fit have fit in with the on-screen segment involving Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Road Dogg, X-Pac, and Kurt Angle as they were confronted by Imperium. “I can’t be out there with DX because I’m too much of a d***,” he said. “They all said they were too old. I would have headbutted that big motherfu**er (GUNTHER) in the forehead. I’m not backing down, so send me home, I’m not doing that.”

“I’m glad I didn’t go because I don’t see where the f*** I would have been used,” Nash revealed.

On top of the uncertainty with his possible placement on the programming, Nash noted that he didn’t “know anybody on the crew really anymore or any of the workers or anything else.” In addition, he emphasized that he “really” didn’t want to suffer through the toll of “people that I don’t know coming up to me saying, ‘I’m sorry to hear about your son‘. Why would I put myself [through that]?” he said.

“I know what the payday is going to be. The payday is going to be…” he trailed off. “Not worth the aggravation,” co-host Sean Oliver filled in the sentence, as Nash agreed.

Dave Bautista as Bane? WWE Legend Has Spoken with Director James Gunn About Portraying Iconic ‘Batman’ Villain

Thomas Lowson
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Dave Batista may be a staple of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but WWE’s Animal has his eyes on the world of DC Comics.

Since 2014, Batista has played Drax the Destroyer, a member of the Guardians of the Galaxy, and has won over audiences with his action scenes and his sense of humor.

This year will see the release of Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3, which Batista has confirmed will be the final time he portrays Drax.

DC Comics

Drax is by far not the only muscle-bound character in Batista’s sights, as he hopes to one day play the DC Comics supervillain Bane.

Speaking to Insider, Batista spoke about wanting to play the role but believes the opportunity has passed him by.

“I have had conversations with James [Gunn, Head of DC’s film projects] about that but I think the direction he’s leaning in, completely rebooting that whole universe, he’s starting from scratch and starting younger and fresher and I think you need to do that.”

Batista.

The 54-year-old actor said that DC needs to start a plan for the next 15 years, something he believes he simply won’t be able to fit into.

Several changes at Warner Bros. (who own the rights for DC’s film projects) have resulted in several plans being scrapped or severely altered.

The Animal (and future WWE Hall of Famer) isn’t the only wrestler with his eyes on the role, as Braun Strowman shared his interest in playing Bane with an Instagram post in June 2021.

The Man Who Broke the Bat

image 20
Bane breaks the spine of Batman in one of the most shocking and iconic moments in comics.

Debuting in comics as part of the 1993 Knightfall story, Bane didn’t just surpass Batman when it comes to strength but has a genius intellect that matches the Dark Knight.

In one of the most infamous moments in comics, Bane, who had deduced Batman’s identity and the location of the Batcave, broke Bruce Wayne’s spine over his knee, rendering him temporarily paralyzed.

On-screen, WCW wrestler Robert Swenson played Bane in the 1997 flop Batman and Robin, while Tom Hardy did the character more justice in 2012’s Dark Knight Rises.

Batista on His First WWE World Title Win: “I Was So Unprepared”

Charlotte Flair Didn’t Envision Winning SmackDown Women’s Championship Immediately Upon Her Return

Ella Jay
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Charlotte Flair made her grand return to WWE on December 30, confronting an old foe and reclaiming her gold in the process. But that wasn’t exactly how “The Queen” initially envisioned her comeback to unfold.

In a recent appearance on Busted Open, Flair revealed that she “definitely didn’t think” she’d regain the SmackDown Women’s Championship right “off the bat” as she did. From her surprise appearance in Tampa, Florida, Flair evidently stunned the WWE Universe, and Ronda Rousey, with her resurgence. Moments earlier, Rousey defeated Raquel Rodriguez to retain the SmackDown Women’s Champion, but Charlotte Flair issued a challenge for Rousey to put up her title one more time. Rousey accepted, and Flair finally got the retribution she was looking for.

Despite the shock on immediate her title win, Flair stated that she “knew the direction” she wanted to go upon her return. “It felt weird if I didn’t come back and go after Ronda again. If I had just ignored her, even though we’ve been in and out of storylines the past couple of years, I needed to go back to Ronda,” she said.

Reception To Flair’s WWE Return

“Where I went from there, I just didn’t think I was going to have the same reception every week. It almost gets better,” Flair said. “You always get that one good [welcome back] ‘Yay!’ It’s been that way, even on live events. So, I’m committing to it.”

Flair also recently mentioned that the crowd’s feel-good reaction to her victory “overwhelmed” her.

Prior to her return, Charlotte Flair experienced a near eight-month absence from WWE. At WrestleMania Backlash last May, the company wrote Flair off with a storyline injury after her “I Quit” match with Ronda Rousey. In reality, though, Flair took the time off to commence her wedding with AEW star Andrade El Idolo, and address some dental issues. Multiple procedures later, Flair finally gained her clearance to wrestle again.

Beth Phoenix Warns Rhea Ripley: “Mother Is Back To Punish You”

Ella Jay
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Rhea Ripley has a big decision ahead of her, but before she can make it, she has another piece of business to tend to first.

Saturday night, Rhea Ripley punched her ticket to WrestleMania 39. “The Nightmare” entered the 2023 women’s Royal Rumble from the number one spot, but that didn’t stop her from outlasting everyone else. The final two saw Ripley clash with former tag team partner Liv Morgan — who entered at number two — before Ripley eliminated Morgan, effectively winning the 30-woman Rumble match. Now, Ripley must declare which championship she will vie for at WWE’s grandest stage, WrestleMania 39.

Before she can weigh her options, however, she appears be caught in the sights of WWE Hall of Famer, Beth Phoenix.

Awakening The Glamazon

Beth Phoenix

At Extreme Rules in October, Phoenix zoomed down to try and save her husband, Edge, from the wrath of the Judgement Day during his “I Quit” match with Finn Balor. Unfortunately for Phoenix though, Rhea Ripley took her down with a pair of brass knuckles and a chair shot to the head. At the Royal Rumble, Phoenix returned with revenge on her mind.

After Edge’s elimination in the men’s Royal Rumble at the hands of the Judgement Day, “The Rated R Superstar” brawled with Finn Balor and Damian Priest up the entrance ramp. Ripley, however, stunned Edge with an attack from behind, kicking him down.

Soon though, Ripley received a surprise of her own. “The Glamazon” Beth Phoenix appeared behind Rhea Ripley, grounding her with a spear.

Following the action, Ripley and Phoenix battled in a war of words on Twitter. Phoenix congratulated Ripley on her women’s Royal Rumble win, promising to drag her to Hell now. Ripley replied seemingly unphased, proclaiming that saying that Phoenix stepped into her playground now. “The Glamazon” answered back with a warning to “The Nightmare.”

Bobby Lashley Mocks Brock Lesnar After Royal Rumble Elimination

Michael Reichlin
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Bobby Lashley couldn’t help but ‘dunk’ on Brock Lesnar after eliminating him from Saturday night’s men’s Royal Rumble match.

Lashley cut a promo on SmackDown and warned the entire WWE Universe that he plans on being the last man standing in San Antonio. As he was speaking, Lesnar emerged from the crowd and viciously attacked the Almighty with an F5. The Beast declared his entry into the Rumble, setting the stage for another clash between these two heavyweights.

Having won Rumble in 2003 and 2022, Lesnar was considered one of the favorites the moment he was announced as a participant. In the hours leading up to the Rumble, Lashley warned WWE Superstars to stay out of his way.

He wrote, “I’m getting rid of Brock tonight, and THEN I’ll take care of the rest of you!”

Lashley Eliminates Lesnar

Brock Lesnar entered the Royal Rumble at #12 and went on a rampage. He flung Chad Gable, Santos Escobar and Angelo Dawkins out of the ring with ease. The next entrant into the Rumble was Bobby Lashley at #13. Two combustable forces like this do not co-exist for long. It all came to ahead when Lashley stunned the Alamodome by eliminating Lesnar.

As you can see below, Lesnar did not handle it well.

On Sunday morning, Lashley took a moment to mock Lesnar on Twitter. He told the former UFC Heavyweight champion to kiss his ass. It’s one thing to talk trash to Brock Lesnar. It’s another thing to antagonize him when he’s already riled up.

Brock Lesnsar vs. Bobby Lashley is rumored to be one of the top matches at ‘WrestleMania Goes Hollywood’ in April.

LA Knight on Why His Max Dupri Character Didn’t Work

Thomas Lowson
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LA Knight has proven to be a hit on WWE’s main roster, but only after ditching the name Max Dupri.

Knight joined WWE in early 2021 after previous stints in TNA/Impact Wrestling and the NWA as Eli Drake, and is a former Impact World Champion.

The 40-year-old wrestler made an impact (pardon the pun) upon his arrival to NXT, where he held the Million Dollar Championship.

Dupri No More

In May 2022, Knight was reintroduced to the WWE Universe as Max Dupri, the head of the Maximum Male Models.

After his sister Maxine Dupri was introduced later that month, Dupri would split from the group, and revert to his LA Knight persona.

Speaking to ComicBook.com, Knight explained why his tenure as Max Dupri was short-lived.

“How honest do you want me to be? I’ll just say this, at the end of the day I can make anything work. But at the end of the day, I’ve got a real tough time not being [me]. I’ll tell you this, it wasn’t me. So when things came to pass and LA Knight started to shine through, it was the right place to go and not a moment too soon.”

LA Knight.

At WWE Royal Rumble 2023, Knight lost to Bray Wyatt in the Mountain Dew Pitch Black match, which marked Wyatt’s first televised match since returning to WWE.

What’s in a Name?

Whether it’s as LA Knight, Max Dupri, or Eli Drake, the SmackDown Superstar (real name Shaun Ricker) has made a name himself, but these aren’t his only names.

Knight previously worked for WWE from 2013-2014 as Slate Randall but was primarily used as an enhancement talent.

In 2011, Knight was an unnamed security guard during the infamous text message promo between Kevin Nash and CM Punk, when the latter joked that people thought Nash died years ago.

Gamers may recognize Knight (or at least his voice) as “Paragon Jay Pierce” in WWE 2K22’s MyRise mode.

LA Knight on Sharing the Ring With Undertaker, Being Managed by Paul Bearer
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