Vince McMahon’s shocking retirement in July of last year did little to stop the former CEO’s business plans, it has been claimed.
McMahon retired following allegations of misconduct with female employees which resulted in millions being paid in non-disclosure agreements.
While McMahon paid out of his own pocket, an investigation determined that these payouts should have been noted on WWE’s financial records as they were seen as beneficial to WWE.
Immediately
Last month, it was reported that McMahon regretted his retirement and was plotting a comeback to oversee a sale of WWE.
Earlier this month, McMahon’s return proved to be successful, as he is now serving as Executive Chairman of the promotion, replacing the recently departed Stephanie McMahon.
On Wrestling Observer Radio Dave Meltzer reported that McMahon had been plotting a sale immediately after his retirement.
“Ever since Vince was ousted, he did open up talks with the Saudis. I mean, this didn’t come in the last week. His coming back was obviously to close the deal.”
Dave Meltzer.
Up for Sale
It was reported by multiple sources earlier this week that WWE had been purchased by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
The fund has over half-a-trillion dollars to its name and is overseen by its Chairman: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.
With the Saudi purchase not confirmed, WWE remains open to offers, with names like FOX, Comcast, Disney, Netflix, and Amazon all considered possible buyers.
Saraya is bringing back up to AEW Dynamite tonight when she teams with Toni Storm to take on Britt Baker and AEW Women’s World Champion Jamie Hayter.
This will mark Sarayay’s second match in AEW as she worked her first match since 2017 last November at the Full Gear pay-per-view event against Bakker.
The match has drawn a lot of buzz, with many expecting Mercedes Mone to be involved in some capacity. Originally, Saraya announced that she would have a mystery partner that she would pick, which sparked speculation the former Sasha Banks would be filling that role.
The former WWE star had to wait out her non-compete clause that expired on January 1 before she made her NJPW debut just days later at Wrestle Kingdom 17 when she confronted KAIRI.
The Tease
AEW later announced that Storm would be teaming up with Saraya. There’s been speculation that Mone could show up after the match. Saraya stated during a Twitch live stream today that she has used two tickets she was given b yBaker.
Saraya stated, “Britt did give me two tickets, and they were put to good use, so thank you, Britt!”
We will have to wait and see who Saraya gave her tickets to for tonight’s Dynamite from the Forum in Los Angeles, CA.
Tony Khan says AEW plans to begin running non-televised live events.
All Elite Wrestling does not currently run house shows. This comes with positives and negatives. Many wrestlers find the AEW schedule favorable to WWE’s, because it is far less demanding.
AEW films Dynamite and Rampage on Wednesday nights most weeks, leading to a lighter travel schedule and more free time. On the flip side, the company is not earning revenue from a full-time touring schedule and younger talent is not getting the experience they need to develop as performers.
Beginning to run live events will bring a significant change to AEW’s business model. The initiative brings logistical coordination, as well as new expenses. However, it also comes with increased revenue from ticket and merchandise sales.
AEW Live Events Coming Soon
(AEW)
Khan appeared on the In The Zone podcast earlier this week and says AEW is actively talking about taking their show on the road.
“We have a great live events team,” said Khan. “It’s something we’ve talked a lot about and building out the live event business.”
When Jeff Jarrett signed with AEW in November 2022 and was named the Director of Business Development, the belief was that his function would include getting their house show business up and running.
Khan says the wrestlers and fans want AEW live events, so it’s something that he’s motivated to make happen.
“There is definitely a lot of demand for AEW live events, and now we have this great big strong roster that wants to do these live events, so it’s something we’re going to do.”
– Tony Khan
Jim Ross also recently addressed the topic of AEW live events on his Grilling JR podcast. He stated last month, “I believe, I don’t know this to be a fact but I believe in 2023, that AEW will be in the house show/ live event business to some degree. I just think that it’s an opportunity that can be capitalized upon if AEW is strategic in their planning. I think that’s what Jeff Jarrett is working on.”
H/T to Fightful and Jeremy Lambert for the transcribed quotes
MLW has announced its main event for the SuperFight 2023 show as Alex Hammerstone will defend his MLW World Heavyweight Title against Jacob Fatu.
This event will take place on Saturday, February 4, at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
Their first match happened when Hammerstone defeated Fatu to win the MLW World Heavyweight Title at MLW Fightland 2021 after The announcement of the match was touted as the biggest rivalry in Major League Wrestling.
Backstory
Fatu earned his title shot by winning Battle Riot IV last year in New York City, but up to this point had not revealed the date and location for it. Now, they will square off in the ring to see who will walk out as champion.
Since winning the MLW World Heavyweight Title, Hammerstone has defended the title against various challengers ranging from Davey Richards to Richard Holliday as well as other top stars.
During this time, Fatu has continued to be pushed as a dominant star to crush CONTRA after having a falling out with the group and forming the Samoan SWAT Team.
No other matches have been announced thus far for the upcoming event that will serve as a taping for its weekly Fusion TV series. MLW will announce additional bouts as the event gets closer.
Contrary to recent reports, it appears that there is no deal in place for WWE to be sold to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
On Tuesday night, reports ran rampant after it was initially reported by DAZN’s Steven Muehlhausen that a deal had been finalized to sell WWE to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund. While that report was never confirmed by WWE itself, Ariel Helwani has a report clearing things up a bit.
According to Helwani, there is no deal at this moment for WWE to be sold to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, or any entity for that matter. As of this writing, the organization is still exploring all options.
Contrary to reports stating otherwise last night, there is no deal in place at this precise moment for WWE to be sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund or any entity, sources say.
The organization is still exploring all options, I’m told. Developing.
Rich Greenfield of LightShed Partners writes, “What happened @SMuehlhausenJr to your WWE breaking news? We’re hearing your now deleted tweet below is 100% false – unfortunately the fake news already went viral.”
Additionally, journalist Jon Alba corroborates that reports of a sale or an agreement to sell are “completely false.”
It should also be noted that the original Tweet reporting the sale from Muehlhausen has since been deleted. Despite the latest report, there have certainly been a multitude of changes that have taken place within WWE as of late.
Stephanie McMahon recently stepped down as co-CEO of WWE. Also, Vince McMahon has returned to the board of directors to reportedly help facilitate a sale of the company. Of course, it appears that no such deal has been made quite yet.
It remains to be seen if Vince McMahon will return to his former position of head of creative, which is currently occupied by son-in-law Triple H.
Two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair says he wants to see Vince McMahon on the upcoming RAW 30th anniversary show.
Flair recently took to his podcast, “To Be The Man,” and commented on the upcoming RAW 30th anniversary show later this month. The 16-time World Champ said he’d like to see Vince McMahon appear on the 30th anniversary show.
“I’m personally glad he’s back. I don’t begin to know, There’s only a few people that do know and I’m not one of them. I honestly believe that he lives and breathes the business and he just said to himself, ‘I own all this stuff. It’s mine. I built it.
“I want back in’, and I don’t blame him. Thirty years of being on TV on RAW. Think about that. Thirty years. I mean, it’s unbelievable. I hope he walks out that door in Philadelphia, busts the door open, stands there, and struts down that aisle and says, ‘I’m back.’ The place would go crazy. I guarantee it. That will be a rating,” Ric Flair said.
An appearance from McMahon is certainly a possibility. Now that he’s back in the fold with the company and has potentially sold WWE to Saudi Arabia. McMahon hasn’t been on WWE television for some time since making his exit from the company last year.
He was forced to step down as WWE CEO after investigations launched into alleged sexual misconduct with female employees. Soon after, McMahon retired from WWE as its head of creative, passing the torch to son-in-law Triple H.
It will be interesting to see if McMahon re-appears on WWE television given that he’s now back on the company’s board of directors.
The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund may be the new owners of WWE, but the nation may not have gotten a good deal on their acquisition.
It was reported this week that the fund has purchased WWE, but neither side has confirmed reports of a sale.
The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund has $620 billion in wealth and is overseen by its Chairman, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.
Overpaid
With over half-a-trillion dollars to their name, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund can certainly afford to purchase WWE.
During a Fightful live-stream, Sean Ross Sapp reported that there is a chance the Saudis “grossly overpaid” considering the competition that they faced.
Other names reportedly interested in buying WWE include FOX, Comcast, Apple, Netflix, Disney, and Amazon.
Sapp reiterated multiple times during the stream that nothing has been confirmed to him regarding a sale, and that there is a possibility that this deal has not happened.
Creative
When Vince McMahon returned to WWE last week, there were immediate concerns that he would make a move to return as Head of Creative.
Following McMahon’s retirement in July of last year, Triple H was appointed Head of Creative, and earned critical acclaim from fans.
Sapp noted that if there was any possible buyer that would be open to appointing McMahon as Head of Creative again, it is Saudi Arabia.
With that said, Sapp added that the relationship between the two sides isn’t perfect, and noted McMahon turning off the broadcast for Crown Jewel 2019 in Saudi Arabia as he hadn’t been paid for previous shows.
After that event, WWE’s roster were prohibited from taking off, with the explanation given that there were mechanical issues with the aircraft.
There are a lot of questions about the future of WWE right now, and Ronda Rousey doesn’t have the answers.
It was reported this week that the promotion has been sold to the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, though neither WWE nor that fund has confirmed that.
The Public Investment Fund controls $620 billion in assets with Saudi Royal Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman serving as Chairman of the fund.
Rousey
No matter who ends up owning WWE, odds are that Ronda Rousey will continue to be prominently featured on programming.
During a YouTube Gaming stream, Rousey was asked by a fan whether she will be appearing at the February 3, SmackDown in Greenville, South Carolina.
Rousey did not confirm her appearance for the show and instead highlighted just how much is changing at this time in WWE.
“If you haven’t noticed, everything’s a little bit in flux with the WWE right now. I don’t think anybody knows what’s going on with anybody this week, let alone weeks from now.”
Ronda Rousey.
Names advertised for that particular SmackDown include Drew McIntyre, Braun Strowman, the Brawling Brutes, Sami Zayn, Undisputed WWE Tag Champions The Usos, and WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair.
Unhappy
WWE’s roster was far from thrilled with the return of Vince McMahon, as morale had improved significantly following his retirement.
With reports of a purchase from Saudi Arabia, things have only gotten worse, with talent being said to be “p*ssed off” over the potential deal.
One anonymous WWE Superstar is ready to walk if the reports of the company being purchased by Saudi Arabia are indeed accurate.
Last week, Vince McMahon returned to WWE, less than six months after his retirement to oversee a sale of the promotion.
McMahon has since been reappointed to WWE’s Board of Directors and has been appointed as Executive Chairman of the Board, replacing his daughter Stephanie McMahon.
Done
WWE’s relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always been controversial and the company’s events in the nation often see boycotts by fans.
Fightful Select reports that those in WWE are also wary and concerned about the possibility of the company being owned by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
No talent who spoke to Fightful said they have already requested their release, but at least one talent said “they’d be done” with WWE if the Saudi purchase goes through.
Fightful did not give any indication as to who this anonymous Superstar is.
There has been an incredible amount of concern among staff and talent regardless of the Saudi purchase reports, with Vince McMahon back in control.
Neither WWE nor the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund has confirmed or even commented on the reports of a sale taking place.
WWE’s Roster and Saudi Arabia
While the majority of WWE Superstars appear at the Saudi Arabia events, some are able to boycott the shows due to personal beliefs.
In the case of Sami Zayn, the decision has been made for the Syrian-Canadian wrestler to not work the shows due to Saudi Arabia’s hostile past with Syria.
Kevin Owens has refused to appear at Saudi events in solidarity with his real-life best friend and on-screen rival.
Jinder Mahal is back in WWE NXT with a mission after returning to the gold brand during last night’s New Year’s Evil event.
For the show, Indus Sher (Veer Mahaan and Sanga) were scheduled to face the Creed Brothers, but Sanga said Veer was not present for the show.
Despite teasing a two-on-one handicap match, Sanga and the returning Mahal attacked Brutus and Julius Creed.
Reaction
Mahal’s appearance this week comes two months after his most recent televised match, and years after the former WWE Champion last competed in NXT.
Speaking in a backstage interview, Mahal highlighted his success in wrestling, including his reign as the first Indian WWE Champion.
Mahal said that the only thing he has not done in the wrestling industry is “give back,” which is exactly what he plans on doing.
Speaking about Veer and Sanga, Mahal said the two fight with honor, but he will teach them that being respectful and obeying the rules won’t get them far in WWE.
WWE is reportedly now the property of the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, which isn’t sitting right with those on the roster.
Last week, Vince McMahon returned to WWE to oversee a sale of the company, mere months after his retirement in July of last year.
McMahon has since regained his position as WWE’s Chairman of the Board, replacing his daughter Stephanie, though Nick Khan has remained as the sole CEO.
P*ssed Off
This week, it was reported by multiple verified sources that a WWE sale has taken place and that it has been purchased by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
WWE has not confirmed the reports themselves, nor has the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
Speaking on a Fightful live stream, Sean Ross Sapp reported that the talent is far from happy about what is going on.
“I can tell you one thing. I know talent is pissed off. Real pissed off. Really really mad. Really dejected. Really frustrated. And this is all based on rumors. This is not official, nothing like that.”
Sean Ross Sapp.
WWE has worked with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for years and is part of a decade-long deal with the nation to host major events there.
This relationship was put on hold during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the missing dates being tacked on to the end of the deal.
WWE and Saudi Arabia
The reports that WWE are now owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund raise a lot of questions about the future of the company.
WWE’s relationship with the kingdom has always been controversial given the country’s restrictive laws on women, LGBTQ+ people, and other groups.
There is also the question of Sami Zayn, arguably WWE’s most popular Superstar today, who given his Syrian heritage, is not allowed to compete at any Saudi shows.
It has been an absolute whirlwind of news ever since last year, when it was revealed that Vince McMahon had been accused of sexual impropriety and was stepping down as the CEO of WWE.
It seemed like every month since then has added another layer to, what could be, the biggest story in the history of professional wrestling.
That move had the wrestling world buzzing and now it looks like where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
Numerous wrestling journalists and media personalities are reporting that WWE has been sold.
The buyer? The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
There are also rumors that the buyers will be taking the company public.
Cassidy Haynes, with Bodyslam.net, was the first journalist to go public with what he was hearing from sources, taking to Twitter to write that “For what it’s worth, I’m told the Saudi deal is done and they’re taking the company private.”
For what it’s worth, I’m told the Saudi deal is done and they’re taking the company private.
Haynes, the Editor-in-Chief of Bodyslam.net, was the first to break news that Bryan Danielson was headed to AEW and he doesn’t spread news unless he’s sure of it.
The tweet, and subsequent article from Bodyslam.net, was further backed up by Steven Muelhausen, who wrote that sources have told him that “WWE has been sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investkent Fund. The company will go back to being private. Unknown if Vince McMahon will return to head of creative but it is expected by some people.”
Other reporters, such as Sean Ross Sapp or Dave Meltzer, have yet to confirm the story.
It’s currently unknown if Vince McMahon will be back as the head of creative. It’s also unknown what this means for Triple H, or even talent like Sami Zayn who, because of his Muslim descent and his ethnic ties to Syria, prevented him from appearing on any of
Vince McMahon Return Could Lead to Lawsuit by WWE Shareholders
This has the potential to be the biggest story in the history of professional wrestling, and SEScoops will continue to provide updates on this breaking news as more information becomes available.
The January 10, 2023 episode of WWE NXT touted New Year’s Evil, aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center.
WWE NXT Results
Dijak defeated Tony D’Angelo
Winners of Gauntlet: Gallus (Wolfgang & Mark Coffey).
NXT Champion Bron Breakker defeated Grayson Waller via countout
Charlie Dempsey defeated Hank Walker
Jinder Mahal defeated Julias Creed.
Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:
Gauntlet Match
Pretty Deadly wants another shot at The New Day’s NXT Tag Team Titles after losing them at NXT Deadline.
On this show, Pretty Deadly held a gauntlet match against three teams to earn a future title shot.
They quickly beat a bootleg Rockers team. Woods and Kingston came out and gave them a real challenge against Malik Blade and Edris Enofe.
Pretty Deadly thought they were going to face Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen. Instead, Jensen & Briggs were shown laid out by a returning Gallus, Mark Coffey and Wolfgang, who then defeated Pretty Deadly.
Tony D’Angelo vs. Dijak in a singles match was booked.
The finish saw D’Angelo tossed Stacks to the floor before Dijak hit D’Angelo with a big boot for the pinfall win. This opened the show.
Dijak interfered in D’Angelo’s North American title bout two weeks ago despite Stacks’ telling him not to do so by costing D’Angelo the title. On last Tuesday’s show, it was revealed that Dijak had kidnapped and tortured Stacks before their match. Dijak accepted D’Angelo’s challenge for New Year’s Evil after winning a match against Stacks.
The victor of the bout between Dijak and D’Angelo will seemingly challenge the North American Champion Wes Lee in the near future based on Lee indicating the winner of the bout will get the title shot.
Charlie Dempsey vs. Hank Walker in a singles match took place.
Dempsey vs. Walker was originally scheduled for last week’s show. However, commentators noted that Dempsey was not cleared to compete. Dempsey was shown taking off his arm sling during a match between Gulak and Andre Chase. Gulak won it via submission.
A 20-woman battle royal was held, with the winner facing NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez at Vengeance Day next month.
Wendy Choo vs. Cora Jade vs. Indi Hartwell vs. Thea Hail vs. Jacy Jane vs. Gigi Dolin vs. Elektra Lopez vs. Jakara Jackson vs. Nikkita Lyons vs. Kiana James vs. Fallon Henley vs. Zoey Stark vs. Tatum Paxley vs. Ivy Nile vs. Amari Miller vs. Layra Valkyria vs. Lash Legend vs. Sol Ruca vs. Valentina Feroz vs. Dani Palmer.
Last Tuesday, Toxic Attraction did a promo about how, after Mandy Rose (who wasn’t named) lost the title to Roxanne Perez. They said they would rebuild the group brick by brick. This drew several NXT stars, which ultimately led to an all-out brawl among the women’s roster. After that, Perez made an appearance and declared that a battle royal would happen, with the winner receiving a title opportunity against Perez at Vengeance Day in February.
Jayne and Dolin were the final two in the match. Jayne super kicked her after faking like she was going to toss her out of the ring. They both fell to the floor at the same time after brawling. There was confusion in storyline and then it was announced that both were the winners. Perez came out to stare them down.
It will be a triple threat match at Vengeance Day.
NXT Champion Bron Breakker defended his title against Grayson Waller in the main event. Waller earned the title match after winning the Iron Survivor Series match at Deadline last month.
The match was in the middle of the show.
At one point, Waller sent Bron into the corner and the rope broke. Waller hit Bron with a nasty knee strike. Later in the match, Waller fell out of the ring after the rope broke when he was on the middle rope. The finish was when Waller couldn’t get back into the ring and the match ended in a countout.
It was later announced Breakker would defend the NXT Title against Waller in a steel cage at Vengeance Day.
Jinder Mahal is once again a member of the WWE NXT roster.
On Tuesday’s episode of WWE NXT, a New Year’s Evil special, The Creed Brothers (Julius & Brutus Creed), were scheduled to take on Indus Sher (Veer & Sanga).
However, Sanga came out to the ring and stated that Veer was not present for their match. Sanaga stated that he’d face The Creeds 2-on-1 but coming from behind to ambush The Creeds was Mahal. Sanga and Mahal took out both Julius and Brutus.
Mahal joined WWE in 2010, and he made his main roster debut the following year. He joined the stable 3MB with Heath Sater and Drew McIntyre after a brief alliance with The Great Khali before he and McIntyre were fired from the company in 2014.
Mahal returned to WWE in 2016 with a significantly improved physique, which led to his victory over Randy Orton for the WWE Championship in April 2017. His reign lasted for about six months. He captured the WWE United States Championship at WrestleMania 34 in 2018.
Mahal and Seth Rollins squared off in 2012 to crown the first-ever NXT Champion.
Mahal’s previous TV match was in November when he lost to Braun Strowman in a SmackDown World Cup First Round match.
Stephanie McMahon announced late Tuesday night that she is resigning as Chairwoman and co-CEO of WWE.
She issued a statement on Twitter announcing the news and mentioning her taking a leave of absence from WWE several months ago. This comes just days after her father, Vince McMahon, elected himself back as a member of WWE’s Board of Directors alongside Michelle Wilson and George Barrios. She issued the following statement:
Stephanie’s Statement
“Dear WWE Universe,
About 8 months ago, I took a leave of absence and within a few weeks, unexpectedly had the opportunity of a lifetime. I had the privilege to return as the Co-CEO and Chairwoman of the Board of WWE. I cannot put into words how proud I am to have led what I consider to be the greatest company in the world, working alongside a remarkable leadership team and one of the strongest executives I have known in my Co-CEO, Nick Khan.
Our Founder, Vince McMahon, has returned as Executive Chair and is leading an exciting process regarding strategic alternatives. And with Nick’s leadership and Paul “Triple H” Levesque as Chief Content Officer, I am confident WWE is in the perfect place to continue to provide unparalleled creative content and drive maximum value for shareholders.
WWE is in such a strong position, that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation.
I look forward to cheering on WWE from the other side of the business, where I started when I was a little kid, as a pure fan. I will always remain dedicated to WWE. I truly love our company, our employees, our Superstars, and our fans. And I am grateful to all of our partners.
Thank you for everything. Then. Now. Forever. Together. -Steph.”
In December, WWE’s Board of Directors unanimously disapproved of Vince McMahon’s return to the Board before he elected himself last week. The board had Stephanie, Nick Khan, and Paul “Triple H” Levesque.
WWE confirmed following the news via a press release that the WWE Board of Directors has unanimously elected Vince McMahon as Executive Chairman of the Board, and it was also revealed that Khan would be serving as the new WWE CEO.
Dave Meltzer reports Stephanie is no longer part of the Board of Directors.
Just to clarify, Stephanie is also off the Board of Directors. The election evidently took place after her resignation.
Ricochet and Samantha Irwin are set to become man and wife as the two are engaged to be married.
Ricochet took to his Instagram account to share the news when he posted three photos. He included a photo of the ring, one of him proposing and one of them kissing. Congratulations to the happy couple.
The Engagement
“She said YES! When you find that one person. The one person that when you close your eyes you could never visualize life without them… you keep them close to your heart. Now we are closer than ever. @samanthairvinwwe I love you so much,” Ricochet wrote in the caption.
Irvin works for WWE as a ring announcer and correspondent.
Ricochet is best known for his time with various Japanese promotions before joining WWE, including Dragon Gate and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). In Lucha Underground, Ricochet competed as Prince Puma, becoming the first person to win the Lucha Underground title twice.
Ricochet found success in NXT in 2018 after signing with WWE. Ricochet began making appearances on the main roster in February 2019. Last year, he would go on to capture the Intercontinental Championship, making him the first wrestler to hold the United States, Intercontinental, and North American Championships.
The trailer for the Netflix series ‘Against The Ropes’, which will premiere on January 25, was released today, and WWE shared it.
The tweet from WWE previewed the series by writing, “An ex-convict tries to regain her daughter’s affection after leaving prison, but it seems impossible — until she steps into the ring.”
The Trailer
Rey Mysterio is featured in the trailer as it shows an ex-convict’s journey in her attempt to train to become a wrestler. According to Netflix’s website, the synopsis is as follows:
“Released from prison, Ángela tries to regain the respect of her daughter, who loves lucha libre wrestling, by entering the ring as a mysterious persona.”
The cast includes Caraly Sánchez, Scarlet Gruber, Carmen Ramos, and Alisson Santiago, Giovanna Zacarías, among others. Check it out below:
An ex-convict tries to regain her daughter's affection after leaving prison, but it seems impossible — until she steps into the ring. Against the Ropes, featuring @reymysterio premieres on January 25, only on @netflix! pic.twitter.com/a8Vyx4U3hc
Mysterio has some acting experience as he voiced himself on ‘Booyaka! Rey Mysterio vs. The Darkness,’ which aired on Cartoon Network Latin America.
The former WWE Champion has been feuding with Karrion Kross as of late on Friday Night SmackDown. He was sent over from Raw to SmackDown last year after feuding with The Judgment Day and his son, Domnik, turning on him.
The wrestling world is still processing the return of Vince McMahon to WWE as a member of the Board Of Directors along with Michelle Wilson and George Barrios.
Last July, the wrestling world changed when Vince McMahon announced his retirement and stepped down as WWE CEO amidst the hush money scandal, leading to Triple H taking over WWE creative. Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan were named co-CEOs. Stephanie also took over as Chairwoman.
McMahon officially returned on January 6, 2023, as a member of the board to help with media rights negotiations and a potential sale. WWE has reportedly hired JPMorgan to advise on a potential sale. Many people believe that McMahon will find a way or force his way back into power and take over creative again.
Khan’s Take
While speaking on In The Zone, AEW President Tony Khan was asked if he’s been following the news of Vince’s return to WWE. Khan responded,
“Yeah, absolutely. I’m following it very closely.”
– Tony Khan
Khan was asked what separated AEW and WWE and if there was room for both companies. Khan thinks there is enough room for both promotions but thinks what separates them are the fans of AEW, as they’ve built a loyal fanbase and cited the television ratings.
WWE’s media rights for WWE Raw on USA Network and WWE SmackDown on Fox are set to expire in 2024. They will be gearing up for its next set of negotiations with TV networks later this year for media rights.
Another New Japan Pro Wrestling talent could be leaving the company soon.
NJPW is dealing with an interesting situation due to several of their talents’ contracts possibly expiring soon. On Jan. 8, reports circulated that one of their current champions could leave in the next few weeks. However, one of NJPW’s top stars could soon leave the company.
Spoiler Warning Ahead on NJPW Free Agent
Fightful Select has reported that the “Switchblade” Jay White contract will end soon, and he’s also not expected to re-sign with NJPW. While it’s unclear where he could end up, WWE is interested in signing White. The company is rumored to be interested in signing other NJPW talent in Tama Tonga and Hikuleo.
“…Switchblade Jay White’s contract is up relatively soon and is expected to leave New Japan Pro Wrestling, per those in the company. Those that we’ve spoken to believe both WWE and All Elite Wrestling are interested in getting the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, however, WWE sources seemed confident they would land him,” said the report.
While they report that White is expected to leave, it adds that it’s not official and that no wrestling company could approach White until his contract is finished. The length of his contract has always remained a mystery, as he’s debunked rumors about his contract status.
(WWE)
What’s Next For Jay White?
White will face Hikuleo in a loser leaves Japan match in Osaka, Japan, on Feb. 11. He’s also on the poster for NJPW Battle in the Valley at the San Jose Civic in San Jose, California, on Feb. 18. It doesn’t seem like White could be done in the next month, but his situation could change. It’s unclear exactly when his contract with NJPW could end.
For now, wrestling fans are left to wait to see if one of NJPW’s top stars becomes a free agent.
Vince McMahon’s dramatic return to WWE’s Board of Directors could result in a lawsuit by shareholders.
The recent turmoil atop pro wrestling’s largest promotion has caused a lot of unease and uncertainty for WWE fans. McMahon ended his retirement and re-joined the company on Jan. 6 after stepping away following allegations of misconduct with female employees. His reasoning for his comeback was to help WWE in its effort to negotiate a TV rights deal or to sell the company.
However, McMahon’s return could lead to a lawsuit against himself and others in the company. PWInsider’s Dave Scherer reports that his friend, who is part of the group in the WWE shareholder lawsuit that was filed last year after the NDA allegations against Vince McMahon surfaced, claimed in an email his return could be a “…breach of a fiduciary lawsuit.”
“…You also may have seen the news this past week about Vince McMahon forcing his way back onto the board, along with a major board shakeup. As a result, we believe there is enough of a basis to bring a breach of a fiduciary lawsuit. We hope to file a complaint against McMahon and possibly other directors/officers for breaching their duties to WWE and its shareholders. We should have a draft for you to review in the next couple of days,” said the email.
What Happens Next with Vince McMahon In A Potential Lawsuit?
While PWInsider’s Scherer reports that McMahon could be in breach of a fiduciary lawsuit, it’s worth pointing out that the email states that a complaint hasn’t been filed yet.
Based on the email, McMahon’s return goes against shareholders’ interest, which helps the case for a lawsuit. Despite the WWE Chairman’s belief that his return aids the company with a potential sale, the shareholder may disagree. An official complaint against the WWE Chairman could be filed if the email is valid.
If McMahon is found to have breached his commitment to his shareholders, he would have to pay for the damages he caused.
SEScoops will provide an update on a potential lawsuit against McMahon occurs.
Andrade El Idolohasn’t used the way he and fans thought he would be in AEW when he signed with the promotion. He was believed to be on his way out of the company at one point. He has further ignited the fuel by posting a cryptic message.
El Idolo made a name for himself in Mexico before signing with WWE, where he was a top NXT star. However, expectations weren’t met on the main roster due to his booking, so he left the company in March 2021.
El Idolo made his debut in AEW in June 2021. When he first debuted, some fans thought he would have a better run in All Elite than he had in WWE. However, that clearly has not happened.
Andrade is sidelined with an injury, and it’s been heavily reported that he was unhappy in AEW and wants to leave the company despite having years left on his deal.
The Post
On social media, he shared a photo that showed his mask packed in a bag with a goodbye message in the caption.“Bye!!!”
A fan asked Conrad Thompson why Andrade is not following him on Twitter. Andrade saw the post and responded, “someday I will be with you in the podcasts and I will talk about everything….Sueña Interesante!”
If Andrade does leave AEW, it will be interesting to see if he returns to WWE under the new management led by WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H.
As Moné navigates the waters of free agency, Paquette expresses admiration for her bold career choice. Having left WWE herself, Paquette understands what it’s like to work outside the company. On the latest edition of her The Sessions podcast, Paquette and co-host Emilio Sparks recapped Moné’s WWE departure and NJPW debut.
“…For me, having worked with her at such an early time, met her in NXT, watched her rise through WWE, watched those ups and those downs, those times of kind of stepping out, after Wrestlemania, after losing the tag titles, having that moment, kind of leaving for a little while, spending some time in Japan,” said Paquette. “I believe she spent some time in Mexico. To seeing what she has done now from whatever exactly happened on her and Trinity(also known as Naomi in WWE) walking out from WWE, I really applaud the balls of this women.
Why Moné Deserves Praise for Becoming A Free Agent
Paquette added that she believes Moné is a free agent because of her passion for women’s wrestling. She explained, “…It’s not easy. I know a lot of people if you want to watch from the outside and be like, ‘yeah, you know what, it’s good. Leave that company. Go do whatever.’ It’s not fu*cking easy to walk away from making a good amount of money.” Paquette did acknowledge that she doesn’t know what Moné WWE contract was, but believes she made a good salary based on her position with the company.
Paquette praised Moné for believing in herself and choosing her passion for wrestling over the comfort of staying with WWE. She also added that she has requested an interview with her and hopes to speak with her about leaving her former employer.
Thank you!
Over one month away, all tickets are SOLD OUT for Battle in the Valley February 18!
Moné choice to leave WWE seems to be a success as fans look forward to what she does next. After the announcement of her match at NJPW Battle in the Valley, tickets for the event have sold out. It’s unclear what Moné has planned for the future of her wrestling career. However, it is possible that Moné could become a giant star outside of WWE as a free agent.
Wrestling legend Tully Blanchard recently confirmed his departure from AEW and ROH last year will be permanent.
The Four Horseman original managed Shawn Spears and FTR for much of his time with the promotion. Later on, he moved into AEW’s ROH angles, where he managed Brian Cage and The Gates of Agony. Together, the group were known as Tully Blanchard Enterprises.
Ultimately, the faction didn’t last long in this format as Blanchard was quickly replaced by longtime ROH personality Prince Nana.
On a recent edition of The Two Man Power Trip podcast, Blanchard reunited with old tag partner Arn Anderson. The Brainbusters discussed a variety of topics before focusing on Blanchard’s surprise AEW departure.
Tully Blanchard Suggests Departure Was “Complex”
Blanchard explained that there was more to the closure of his time in AEW and ROH than a simple contract expiry.
“No, it [Blanchard leaving] was a little more complex than that, but my contract is up and I’m gone.”
Blanchard ultimately opted out of shedding any further light on the situation. His comments do raise some questions as to what might have prompted his sudden departure from the company. Renowned for his intensity and technical skill in his wrestling heyday, Blanchard was also notorious for often being difficult to work with.
The man himself went on to opine that his time in the wrestling business is likely up. His daughter, Tessa Blanchard, was widely regarded as one of the best women’s wrestlers in the world late into last decade. A variety of personal and professional issues have led to her essentially being blacklisted in multiple promotions.
(via WOW)
When asked for his thoughts on her daughter’s future, Blanchard was encouraging of her recent decision to return to college and finish getting a degree. The podcast was record prior to Monday’s announcement that Tessa Blanchard and former Impact Wrestling act DAGA are getting divorced.
WWE has added to its growing talent roster with the signing of New Japan Pro Wrestling alum Karl Fredericks.
Last summer, Fredricks informed fans on social media that he had opted not to re-sign with New Japan, ending his four years with the promotion.
PW Insider reports that Fredericks has signed with WWE, and is set to be a part of the NXT brand in Florida.
Fredericks was first spotted at the WWE Performance Center in September 2022, a month after his deal with New Japan expired.
Interestingly, Fredricks said that he did not see himself going to any other company than New Japan prior to his contract expiring.
Fredericks’ arrival marks the second notable signing in as many months after Dragon Lee confirmed in December that he is also joining WWE.
Karl Fredericks
Three years after making his debut in 2015, Fredericks entered the New Japan LA Dojo alongside current NJPW stars Clark Connors and Alex Coughlin, and Gabriel Kidd.
Visiting Japan the following year, Fredericks represented the LA Dojo in the Young Lion Cup and won the tournament with 12 points.
Fredericks’ later teamed with Hirooki Goto for the 2019 World Tag League, finishing with three wins and 12 losses.
Fredericks last wrestled for New Japan Pro Wrestling at a May 2022 taping of STRONG, where he defeated QT Marshall.
Since then, he has wrestled twice for separate indie promotions, with his most recent match seeing him defeat Kevin Blackwood for Prestige/West Coast Pro Savage Mode last September.
WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle still has a price tag to return to the ring for one of WWE’s Saudi Arabia shows.
His final match came back in 2018 when Angle was defeated by Baron Corbin at WrestleMania 35 in 2019. Angle has received offers from promotions such as AEW to return to the ring, but the Hall Of Famer has turned them down, instead making sporadic appearances on WWE TV since.
He first touched on the rumor that Shawn Michaels received an astounding $3 million to return for his tag team match, in which he teamed up with Triple H against The Undertaker and Kane.
“I’m not a WWE lifer,” Angle said. “Shawn is, so his loyalty is still with the WWE, and they paid him very well for it.
(WWE)
Angle has since had double knee replacement surgery, and is in no condition to wrestle at this point in his career. However, when asked if he’d step back into the ring for $3 million for a Saudi Arabia show, Angle didn’t hesitate to say yes, whether he has good knees or bad ones.
“What are you talking about? I’d do it in a second,” Angle said. “Good knees or bad knees, I’d do it in a second.”
