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Karl Fredericks Makes WWE Debut at NXT Live Event – Confronts Axiom

Thomas Lowson
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New Japan Pro Wrestling alum Karl Fredericks has confirmed his signing with WWE by making an appearance at an NXT live event.

Fredericks signed with WWE earlier this month, with the news broken by PW Insider.

His deal with the McMahon-led promotion comes after he confirmed last summer that he would not be re-signing with NJPW, ending his four years with the promotion.

WWE NXT

At the WWE NXT live event in Fort Pierce, Florida, Fredericks made his debut, confronting Axiom in the ring.

Fredricks’ demeanor garnered boos from the crowd, and teased saying something, but left without saying a word.

Footage of Fredericks’ debut was later shared by WWE on its Instagram Stories.

Karl Fredericks

In 2018, Fredericks entered New Japan’s LA Dojo along with Clark Connors and Alex Coughlin, and would represent the Dojo the following year in the NJPW Young Lion Tournament.

Fredericks would win the 2019 tournament with a total of 12 points and would team with Hirooki Goto that same year in the World Tag League.

In August 2020, Fredericks competed in the inaugural New Japan USA Cup Tournament, with the winner earning an IWGP United States Heavyweight Title shot, but lost to KENTA in the first round.

The next year, Fredericks challenged Tom Lawlor for the Strong Openweight Championship but came up short.

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.

Ex-NJPW Star Karl Fredericks Signs with WWE

WWE Going Through Another Round of Office Cuts

Thomas Lowson
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Vince McMahon’s return has led to claims from the promotion that nothing would change, but there’s been yet another example of this not being the case.

McMahon returned to WWE’s board of directors earlier this month, less than six months after his retirement in July of last year.

The 77-year-old billionaire has since been appointed Executive Chairman of WWE, replacing his daughter Stephanie in the role.

Cuts Cuts Cuts

From 2020 to McMahon’s departure in 2022, WWE experiences massive waves of cuts to both on-screen talent and those working behind the scenes.

Sources who spoke to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select have confirmed that the company is undergoing office cuts right now.

The previous releases were always described as being “budget cuts” by WWE, but no explanation for this latest wave of layoffs has been given.

There is currently no confirmation on how many names will be laid off or who has been released from the promotion thus far.

Are Talent Next?

Sapp’s report made it clear that these current cuts are sole to office staff, but many believe that talent releases are coming.

On Wrestling Observer Radio earlier this month, Dave Meltzer noted that talent are worried that Vince McMahon’s return will see more mass layoffs.

At the time of the talent cuts, it was suggested that WWE was attempting to ‘trim the fat’ and boost its profits to look more appealing to a potential buyer.

McMahon’s return to WWE has been to oversee the sale of the promotion, with names including Comcast, FOX, Netflix, and the Saudi Arabia PIF being considered possible buyers.

WWE Releases 5 Wrestlers From NXT

WWE Senior Vice President: “Never Say Never” to CM Punk’s Return

Thomas Lowson
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Could CM Punk make a shocking return to WWE, over nine years after his departure from the promotion?

In January 2014, Punk walked out of WWE following that year’s Royal Rumble and was released from the promotion that June.

The former World Champion was sent his termination papers on his wedding day, timing that Vince McMahon later said was merely coincidental and apologized for.

WWE Return

With Punk still suspended from AEW due to the All Out brawl, questions remain as to his future with AEW.

Speaking on his ‘Oh You Didn’t Know’ podcast, WWE’s Senior Vice President of Live Events ‘Road Dogg’ Jesse James weighed in on whether Punk could return.

“Never say never with these guys. They will give you a second chance. [WWE] will give you an opportunity if it’s business savvy, and bringing him back might be. The reason it might be is because he’s a needle mover.”

‘Road Dogg’ Jesse James.

Punk has had a hostile relationship with WWE following in the years since his walkout, but did appear for WWE Backstage, though his contract at the time was with FOX.

Unhappy Roster

CM Punk could (in theory) return to WWE, but if so, he shouldn’t expect a warm response.

It has been reported that there are some who “absolutely do not want” Punk back, believing he would just bring the same attitude that has inflicted his AEW run.

A return to AEW won’t be much better for Punk either, with top talent refusing to work with him if he is brought back by Tony Khan.

There is a group, said to be led by former AEW World Champion Chris Jericho, which is working to prevent his return to the All-Elite promotion.

AEW Roster Don’t Buy Tony Khan’s Recent Claim About CM Punk (Report)

h/t – Wrestling Inc

More Legends Confirmed For Raw 30th Anniversary Special

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE has added some more names to the line-up for the upcoming Raw 30th Anniversary special, including Diamond Dallas Page among others.

In a graphic shown during this week’s episode of SmackDown, the company confirmed that DDP, Ted DiBiase, Mike “Irwin R. Schyster” Rotunda, Alundra Blayze, The Godfather, and Jimmy Hart will all be a part of the upcoming celebration.

This comes after the promotion added Hulk Hogan and Triple H to an already stacked line up for the episode earlier in the day.

Raw 30th Anniversary Match Card

WWE will be celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Monday Night Raw on January 23. You can check out the announced card for the show below:

  • WWE United States Championship Match: Austin Theory vs. Bobby Lashley
  • Raw Tag Team Championship Match: The Usos vs. Judgement Day
  • Steel Cage Match: Becky Lynch vs. Bayley
  • Bloodline Acknowledgement Ceremony with WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns

Other names scheduled for the special episode include The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Road Dogg, X-Pac, Ric Flair, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, Teddy Long, Ron Simmons, and Kurt Angle.

Rikishi and Samu are expected to participate in the Bloodline acknowledgment ceremony. The Bella Twins who were originally announced for Raw are no longer part of the promotional graphic.

GCW Don’t Talk To Me Results (1/20/23): El Hijo del Vikingo vs. Gringo Loco

Tyriece Simon
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0

Game Changer Wrestling held their event GCW: Don’t Talk to Me on Jan. 20 at the Cabarrus Arena & Event Center in Concord, North Carolina.

The main event saw AAA Mega Champion El Hijo del Vikingo compete against Gringo Loco in a non-title match. The event also had a tag team match with BUSSY(Allie Katch and EFFY) against Charles Mason and Parrow and legend Ricky Morton competing against Tony Deppen. GCW: Don’t Talk to Me stream live on FITE exclusively for people with a FITE+ subscription at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.

Fans could watch FITE+ for $4.99 a month or $49.99 annually. GCW: Don’t Talk to Me and all GCW events can be viewed on FITE+’s Video on Demand.

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

GCW Don’t Talk To Me (1/ 20) Results

The event opened with a tribute video packing for Jay Briscoe. It then transitioned to the ring, where Emil Jay led a ten-bell salute with talent and fans around the ring. After the ten-bell salute, Nick Gage also shared his condolences to Briscoe and his family.

  1. Nick Wayne def. Arez
  2. Blake Christian def. Andrew Everett
  3. Jordan Oliver def. Kerry Morton
  4. Cole Radrick def. Marty Garner
  5. GCW Tag Team Championship: Los Macizos (Ciclope and Miedo Extremo) (c) def. The Ugly Ducklings (Lance Lude and Rob Killjoy)
  6. Axton Ray def. Jimmy Lloyd, Marcus Mathers, Zenshi, Terry Yaki, and Yoya in a scramble match
  7. BUSSY (Allie Katch and EFFY) def. Charles Mason and Parrow with Billy Dixon
  8. Tony Deppen def. Ricky Morton
  9. Second Gear Crew (Mance Warner and Matthew Justice) def. John Wayne Murdoch and George South, The Revolt (Caleb Konley and Zane Riley), and Bojack and Lucky Ali
  10. El Hijo del Vikingo def. Gringo Loco

Spoiler: Former NXT Star Makes Impact Debut

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Former NXT star Steph De Lander, better known to WWE fans as Persia Pirotta made her debut for Impact Wrestling during the company’s TV taping on Friday.

The Australian professional wrestler came out and cut a promo on Jordynne Grace. She claimed that the Impact star has fallen from grace and the whole Knockout’s Division is shaking in their boots.

Jordynne Grace then made her entrance and the two female stars competed in a singles match. Lander lost her debut match for the promotion.

Steph De Lander made her wrestling debut back in 2017 under the ring name FaceBrooke. She wrestled for promotions such as Shimmer and Rise Wrestling before signing with WWE in March 2021.

She made her NXT TV debut later that year as a friend of Indie Hartwell who had come from Australia for Hartwell’s wedding with Dexter Lumis.

The two then teamed up for a number of tag team matches on the development show. In January 2022, they started a feud with Toxic Attraction. This led to a match for the NXT Tag Team Championship at Vengeance Day before her release in April 2022.

It’s unknown whether Lander has signed a long-term contract with Impact Wrestling or if the surprise appearance was a one-off deal.

Watch: Bray Wyatt Brings Back Firefly Fun House On SmackDown

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

The Firefly Funhouse is back!

Bray Wyatt returned to The Firefly Fun House during the January 20 episode of SmackDown and reunited with all his friends.

This week’s episode of the show saw LA Knight defeating Ren Jones in a singles match. Mercy the Buzzard, Abby The Witch, Ramblin’ Rabbit and Huskus the Pig Boy then made an appearance, confronting Knight on the Titantron.

Ramblin Rabbit revealed that he is scared of the dark and worried about Bray for his Pitch Black match at the upcoming Royal Rumble PPV on January 29.

Wyatt tried to console his friend but halfway through the segment, Uncle Howdy interrupted. He claimed that he knew all Bray needed was a push.

The segment ended with Bray Wyatt telling LA Knight that whatever happens at the upcoming PPV, whatever walks through the door, it’s his own fault.

Uncle Howdy also made an appearance on Raw this past Monday on January 16. He saved Alexa Bliss from Bianca Belair.

Bray Wyatt has wrestled a few live event matches since his return but not on TV. His bout against Knight at Royal Rumble will mark his first Televised match since WrestleMania 37 back in April 2021 where he was defeated by Randy Orton.

WWE Pays Tribute to Jay Briscoe on Friday’s SmackDown

Michael Reichlin
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WWE paid tribute to Jay Briscoe (Jamin Pugh) on Friday’s ‘SmackDown’ television broadcast on FOX.

Early in the show, commentator Michael Cole took a moment to acknowledge Briscoe’s tragic passing in an automobile accident earlier this week (January 17).

Speaking on behalf of WWE, Cole addressed the Universe:

“We would like to send our condolences to the family of Jay Briscoe. Jay passed away suddenly earlier this week. He and his brother Mark formed one of wrestling’s great tag teams.”

WWE acknowledged Briscoe’s passing on Tuesday night on NXT.

AEW, Impact and the entire wrestling world have been paying respects over the past several days. On AEW Dynamite, several stars wore armbands honoring their friend.

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(Image: @MannyGomezMedia)

A ‘Jay Briscoe Celebration of Life’ special was taped after Dynamite. That card of ROH matches will soon be available for streaming on the HonorClub service. (Spoiler Results)

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Details on WWE Royal Rumble Meetings, Ronda Rousey’s Status for The Show

Andrew Ravens
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WWE is just over a week away from this year’s Royal Rumble, and the company has been discussing the event in recent meetings. 

Fightful Select reports that while several veterans have contacted WWE about making Royal Rumble appearances, WWE was said to have been leaning out of that in some cases in favor of what they call “non-traditional surprises.” 

It’s unclear what that meant. Creative and producers were soliciting pitches for such a thing. In 2022, WWE was adamant about leaning out of NXT names appearing in the match.

Ronda Rousey’s Status

The report did note that as of last week, Ronda Rousey wasn’t planned for the Royal Rumble PPV when she lost the title. She dropped the SmackDown Women’s Championship to a returning Charlotte Flair on the December 30 edition of SmackDown. 

Until December, Rousey was scheduled for the show in a singles match.

Fightful was told that “WWE was very confident in their women’s roster as is with the hires and call-ups over the last year, and how it would play into the Royal Rumble match.”

WWE needed to call in several veterans for last year’s match because of mass talent releases, causing a depleted roster. 

Longtime indie wrestler Jason Cade has been brought in to help with the Royal Rumble while TJ Wilson will be on hand, leading the charge unlike last year as he wasn’t around. WWE had to bring in Fit Finlay to help.

Update on Plans for The Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles

Andrew Ravens
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WWE has changed how they book their Tag Team Champions as  The Usos are touted as the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions. However, they’ve always been the Raw and SmackDown Tag Team Champions. 

Instead of defending the titles separately, they defend both titles. The same goes for Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, who holds both the WWE Title and Universal Championship.

WWE booked The Usos’ next title defense for Raw 30 this Monday. However, the company made sure to note they will defend the Raw Tag Team Titles against Dominik Mysterio and Damian Priest instead of noting they will defend the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles.

The Idea

Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that having The Usos defend the titles separately again is a call from Paul “Triple H” Levesque.

“The idea right now on the tag team front is that there are two sets of belts. The Usos are champions, but the Raw and Smackdown belts are different. This is a new Paul Levesque move and it does allow the Usos to lose one set of belts and keep the other. It was explained to me that the hope is it makes fans think it’s more likely somebody beats them for one set of belts.”

The Usos do not have a match lined up yet for the Royal Rumble next Saturday. 

Two Big Names Confirmed for WWE Raw 30 Anniversary Show

Andrew Ravens
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WWE has added two new names to the list of legends slated to appear on the Raw 30 anniversary show this coming Monday. 

WWE.com now lists that Hulk Hogan and Triple H will be appearing at Raw’s 30th anniversary episode that takes place at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Monday. 

It will be Hogan’s first appearance on WWE TV since co-hosting WrestleMania 37 in 2021. WWE updated its advertisement to reflect Hogan appearance on the show: 

The Announcement

“The historic Raw 30 celebration will feature a slew of WWE Legends including The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Road Dogg, X-Pac, Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, Teddy Long, Ron Simmons, and Kurt Angle,” WWE wrote. “Be a part of history on Raw 30, next Monday at 8/7 C on USA.”

This episode of Raw is also the go-home show for the Royal Rumble that takes place next Saturday. 

Updated WWE Raw 30 Anniversary Card

  • United States Champion Austin Theory vs. Bobby Lashley
  • Raw Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. The Judgment Day (Damian Priest & Dominik Mysterio)
  • Becky Lynch vs. Bayley – Steel Cage Match
  • Bloodline Acknowledgement Ceremony with Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns
  • WWE legends to appear

AEW Star Shows Off His Incredible Body Transformation

Tyriece Simon
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AEW star Fuego Del Sol is showing off his new bulked-up physique.

Wrestlers can get attention for their ability and charisma in the wrestling business. However, their physical appearance can also significantly affect their career. A person’s physical appearance and health can aid in preserving their career and possibly getting more opportunities.

FDS posted a video on Twitter this week to show off the results of the past six months of hard work. Thanks to a new fitness program by the Modern Wellness Center, he’s added 15 pounds of muscle over the past six months.

Fuego Del Sol Status With AEW

Sol is still signed with AEW, although he hasn’t been seen on TV. The company has used Sol in several programs, but it, unfortunately, isn’t consistent. His last appearance on AEW Dynamite was a loss against Luchasaurus on Oct. 5, 2022. While he may not often compete on AEW Dynamite or Rampage, he competes for several independent promotions.

He competed in Pandemonium: Pro Wrestling’s Holiday in Hollywood against Alan Angels on Dec 4. 2022. Sol put on a great effort but ultimately lost the match. Fans could watch the entire event with Sol on IWTV for ten dollars.

Sol is advertised to compete in Rugged Pro Wrestling against Justin Fowler on Feb. 25. It’s unclear when his next AEW appearance will be or if the company has creative plans for him. However, he seems to be in good spirits and keeps busy with his indie dates and workout program.

Thunder Rosa is Going Back on The Road With AEW

Andrew Ravens
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Thunder Rosa has provided another update on her status with AEW. 

The former AEW Women’s Champion has been sidelined with a back injury since August. She announced at the time that she would have to step away from in-ring competition as a result, leading to the creation of an Interim AEW Women’s Championship. 

This interim title later became the undisputed AEW Women’s Championship due to Rosa’s extended absence. Toni Storm was named the Women’s Champion before she dropped the title to Jamie Hatier. 

Showing Face

While speaking on Busted Open Radio, she said she would be back on the road with AEW soon. However, she doesn’t know when she will wrestle again. Her plan is to ‘show face’ and be around backstage again while she gears up for an in-ring return.

“It’s going to be nice to be around everyone and see how things unfold,” she said.

The previous update on her in-ring status was last month when Rosa said she was lifting again but wasn’t ready to train in the ring and take bumps.

Dax Harwood Was Upset When Brock Lesnar Squashed Kofi Kingston For WWE Title

Jon Fuentes
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Dax Harwood was not happy when Brock Lesnar squashed Kofi Kingston to end his WWE Title run.

On the newest episode of “FTR with Dax Harwood,” Harwood offered his thoughts on the first-ever episode of SmackDown Live on FOX. The episode featured the return of Brock Lesnar, who challenged then-WWE Champion Kofi Kingston for the title.

Lesnar squashed Kingston for the title in seconds in the main event of the night. Putting an end to Kingston’s historic and memorable run as WWE Champion. Harwood explained why this upset him.

“I was very, very upset,” Dax Harwood said. “I remember that I texted Kofi, and actually it was a group text with the three of them, The New Day and myself and Dan [Cash Wheeler], and I apologized to him and said, I’m so sorry this happened to you, man. We’re so upset. I can’t believe this is for real. Not because of obviously anything with Brock but how much we had worked and how hard he had worked to get to this point.

“Dude, especially when we were working with him, with Randy, I saw him outside of Vince’s office or go into Vince’s office every single week to try to make things better, to try to make his championship run better. He worked so hard to be a great champion, and I think a lot of people, maybe they think, oh, man, his championship run wasn’t successful because, you know, whatever.

“It wasn’t for lack of trying because I saw him every week, man. Try his damnedest to make something of nothing, and it broke all of our hearts, the whole locker room. It broke all of our hearts that that’s where the championship was being taken. Because not anything to do with Brock. But because Kofi had worked so hard. And seeing someone work so hard for so long to get this opportunity taken away from him.”

Kofi Kingston
Kofi Kingston

The match is something that Kingston himself has spoken on since. Kingston admits he’d have at least liked a longer match with Lesnar if he was to drop the title. He also would’ve liked the opportunity for a rematch, which is customary for a champion after dropping the title.

However, Kingston didn’t receive that rematch opportunity after all. With that being said, Kingston says he doesn’t dwell on it, nor should he, as he’s still one-third of one of the most successful factions in WWE tag team history.

Quotes via WrestleZone

Jade Cargill Reveals Her Thoughts On CM Punk When Asked About All Out Incident

Jon Fuentes
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AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill has revealed how she feels about CM Punk when discussing the infamous backstage All Out incident.

Cargill was recently a guest on the Bootleg Kev podcast to discuss a variety of topics. During the interview, Cargill was asked about the backstage brawl that took place between Punk and The Elite shortly after his explosive post-event press conference at All Out.

The champion said she had already left the stadium by the time the madness broke out backstage, but did note that she has had nothing but positive interactions with Punk in the past, and has a ton of respect for him.

“I wasn’t there. I had already left the stadium — right after my match, I left,” Jade Cargill said. “So I heard about it just like the rest of the world, at the same time. It was pretty shocking… from my opinion, Punk’s a great guy.

“He’s been nothing but nice to the women’s locker room. He talks to me, tells me his experiences. Again, at Comic Con, we got really close because he was my tag mate in the interviews, and I learned so much from him, and so much knowledge in the industry.

“He’s been in two different companies, and he can do whatever the hell he wants to do. So he doesn’t need it. He does it cause he loves it. And that speaks to me. I don’t need it. I do it because I love it. And I appreciate people like that.”

CM Punk Tony Khan All Out

Punk’s future with AEW remains in limbo. With some expecting him to eventually be released from his contract and go his separate way from AEW, others believe he could be brought back into the fold as well.

As it stands, AEW president Tony Khan has yet to make a final decision on how to handle things moving forward.

Quotes via NoDQ.com

Venue for This Week’s WWE SmackDown Was Recently Evacuated

Andrew Ravens
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The venue, Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, set to hold Friday’s (January 20) WWE SmackDown event, had to be evacuated on Thursday night (January 19).

This is according to the Detroit News, which noted the Little Caesars Arena was evacuated after an ammonia leak in the building. It happened around 3:15 pm in the arena’s basement. 

Detroit Fire Department chief of community relations and public information officer James Harris stated that two men near the leak suffered chemical burns. They were transported to Detroit Receiving Hospital with minor injuries.

Statement

Firefighters, medics, and a hazmat specialist responded at the time. Harris shared the following statement to the press:

“The leak was contained by us. Little Caesars Arena did their due diligence. They went into action, and the situation will be mitigated shortly.”

Other details, including the cause of the leak, were shared. WWE is expected to move forward with SmackDown. They’ve previously announced two things for the show: Here’s the announced lineup for the episode:

– Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens meet for a contract signing 

– Drew McIntyre & Sheamus vs Viking Raiders – SmackDown Tag Team Title Tournament First-Round

Cody Rhodes Was Not Cleared to Compete When Announced for Royal Rumble (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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Cody Rhodes will compete in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match, but the timing of his announcement has raised some eyebrows.

Rhodes has not competed since WWE Hell in a Cell last June, as he tore his pectoral muscle mere hours before the show began.

The American Nightmare fought through the pain to defeat Seth Rollins inside Hell in a Cell later that night.

Announcement

During this week’s Raw, WWE played their latest vignette documenting Rhodes’ return to WWE and his recovery process.

It was also confirmed that Rhodes will be one of the 30 men to compete in the upcoming Men’s Royal Rumble match.

In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it is reported that Cody was not 100% medically cleared by WWE when his entry into the Rumble match was announced.

WWE was confident that Rhodes would be cleared, with the Observer saying that the process of his medical clearing being confirmed was just a “formality.”

This year will mark Rhodes’ ninth Rumble match and his first since 2016 when he competed as Stardust.

Favorite?

With his impressive recovery and his WWE booking since WrestleMania 38, many consider Rhodes a favorite to win the Men’s Rumble match.

The odds of Rhodes winning have increased given reports that The Rock is not expected to compete at this year’s WrestleMania and ergo, the Royal Rumble.

Sami Zayn is being considered a dark horse favorite by some to set up his inevitable split from the Bloodline.

Cody Rhodes Makes Interesting Claim About his Time in AEW

GCW Don’t Talk To Me: Final Card, How to Watch

Michael Reichlin
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0

Game Changer Wrestling presents GCW: Don’t Talk to Me tonight (January 20, 2023) from the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord, North Carolina.

Matches

Here’s the full card for GCW Don’t Talk to Me:

  • Ricky Morton vs. Tony Deppen
  • Nick Wayne vs. Arez
  • Blake Christian vs. Andrew Everett
  • Marty Garner vs. Cole Radrick
  • Jordan Oliver vs. Kerry Morton
  • BUSSY (Allie Katch and EFFY) vs. Charles Mason and Parrow
  • John Wayne Murdoch and George South vs. Revolt (Caleb Konley and Zane Riley) vs. Bojack and Lucky Ali vs. Second Gear Crew (Mance Warner and Matthew Justice)
  • El Hijo del Vikingo vs. Gringo Loco
  • GCW Tag Team Championship: Los Macizos (Ciclope and Miedo Extremo) (c) vs. The Ugly Ducklings (Lance Lude and Rob Killjoy)

How to Watch

GCW: Don’t Talk to Me stream live on FITE+ on Friday, January 20, 2023 starting at 8pm (Eastern).

Tony Khan Has Not Made a Decision Yet About CM Punk’s Future (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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0

The fate of CM Punk in All Elite Wrestling remains hanging in the balance, with Tony Khan yet to make a decision on the problematic star.

Punk has not appeared for AEW since September’s All Out due to his comments on the post-show media scrum and his involvement in the backstage fight.

The two-time former AEW World Champion remains the only person suspended following the fallout from All Out to remain suspended.

Decisions, Decisions

Given Punk’s lengthy hiatus, many believe his time with the promotion is up, but that is not the case just yet.

In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it is reported that it is “months away” from when Tony Khan will have to make a decision on whether to keep Punk under contract.

Those on Punk’s side believe that Khan has put Punk “on ice” for the time being, with no plans to use him at this time.

The belief is also that there has been “no talk at all” as of late to release him either.

Tony Khan has repeatedly refused to comment on Punk or the All Out backstage fight when asked in various interviews.

Friends and Enemies

Punk’s actions following AEW All Out have split the locker room, with many believing he should be fired from the promotion.

Some top AEW stars have reportedly refused to work with Punk if he is brought back by Tony Khan.

It is also reported that Chris Jericho is part of a group that is trying to prevent Punk’s return to the company.

The Chicago-Made wrestler does have some allies, including Dax Harwood, who defended Punk and praised his work on the premiere episode of his FTR podcast.

Chris Jericho Told CM Punk he is a Cancer After AEW All Out Fight

AEW Rampage Preview (1/20/23): Garcia vs, Andretti, Page vs. Perry

Michael Reichlin
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0

All Elite Wrestling presents a new episode of AEW Rampage this Friday night at 10pm (Eastern) on TNT. These matches were taped Wednesday night from Fresno, California at the Save Mart Center.

In addition to Dynamite and Rampage, AEW also held a Ring of Honor “Jay Briscoe: Celebration of Life” special that will soon stream for free on Honor Club.

AEW Rampage Preview (Jan. 20)

The following matches and segments are set for this week’s Rampage:

  • The Jericho Appreciation Society’s Daniel Garcia vs. Action Andretti
  • ROH World Six-Man Champion Brian Cage vs. Willie Mack
  • The Firm’s Ethan Page vs. “Jungle Boy” Jack Perry

Plus, we’ll hear from Eddie Kingston and TBS Champion Jade Cargill will be in tag team action along with Leila Grey of the Baddies.

AEW Rampage Spoilers

AEW Rampage Logo

Here are spoiler results for Rampage:

  • “Jungle Boy” Jack Perry defeated Ethan Page
  • Brian Cage defeated Willie Mack
  • Jade Cargill & Leila Grey defeated Jaina and Jordyn Vanity
  • Action Andretti defeated Daniel Garcia

New MLW Underground Series Coming to REELZ Starting February 7

Michael Reichlin
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Major League Wrestling has signed a new TV with REELZ, a US-based cable channel available in more than 40 million homes.

The new weekly series MLW Underground Wrestling premieres Tuesday, February 7 at 10pm (ET) / 7pm (PT). The first episode will see MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone vs.EJ Nduka in a Last Man Standing match.

New Weekly Primetime “MLW Underground Wrestling” Events Showcase Professional Wrestling for a New Generation

(Albuquerque, NM) Friday, January 20, 2023 — REELZ today announced the fastest growing wrestling league in the world Major League Wrestling (MLW) premieres on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT. The new weekly primetime series MLW Underground Wrestling is a new era of wrestling for a new generation of fans, featuring an electrifying mix of world class fighters including MLW World Champion Alex Hammerstone, “The Certified G” Real1, Women’s Featherweight Champion Taya Valkyrie, John Hennigan, Jacob Fatu, “The World’s Greatest Wonder” Microman and more. 

Journey into the underground beginning Tuesday, February 7 at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT with the premiere of “Titan vs. Titan” featuring Hammerstone vs. ex-NFL player EJ Nduka in a Last Man Standing World Championship Match and also stars Real1, the Bomaye Fight Club and Mance Warner. Immediately following at 11pm ET/ 8pm PT it’s the REELZ premiere of the classic “MLW Battle RIOT IV.”

“Major League Wrestling is for a new generation of fans and we’re thrilled to bring our viewers a ringside view with exciting nights at the fights,” said Steve Cheskin, SVP of Programming at REELZ. “With the strong response from our viewers to several REELZ originals celebrating the extraordinary lives and careers of professional wrestlers we’re stepping into the ring to bring them new Major League Wrestling events every week.”  

“Wrestling has never been hotter and MLW Underground Wrestling will deliver a weekly adrenaline rush when we join the REELZ roster February 7,” said MLW CEO Court Bauer. “The extraordinary growth and success of REELZ with its line-up of must-see programming is a perfect fit for MLW.”  

MLW wrestlers have distinct backgrounds with rich cultural connections making their journeys relatable and authentic to viewers. MLW also features some of next generation of some of the most iconic wrestling families in the sport including the Samoan Dynasty, the British Bulldogs and more. New episodes of MLW Underground Wrestling air Tuesdays at 10pm ET/ 7pm PT followed at 11pm ET/ 8pm PT with REELZ premieres of classic episodes of the most memorable and action packed matches in MLW history. 

ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE WRESTLING 

Major League Wrestling (MLW®) is a sports media holding company, offering television content, action figures, apparel, live events, and ancillary entertainment. MLW operates live events in major markets throughout the United States and Mexico, including New York, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Tijuana. One of the fastest growing wrestling leagues today, MLW programming is available in over 60 countries worldwide, including its new flagship series MLW Underground Wrestling on REELZ in the United States airing Tuesdays at 10pm ET / 7pm PT; and MLW Fusion on Pro Wrestling TV in the U.S. and Ayozat TV on SKY in the United Kingdom.

For more information visit MLW.com and follow MLW on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About REELZ—REAL LIVES. REAL STORIES. REAL CELEBRITIES.®

REELZ is a leading independent television network that is home to the hit original series On Patrol: Live that follows law enforcement officers live from a diverse mix of police departments and sheriff offices across America. REELZ original programming is focused on real people in revealing stories ranging from the critically acclaimed and award-winning The Kennedys to Autopsy: The Last Hours Of and the network is also home to true crime stories and law enforcement action including Gangsters: America’s Most Wanted, Mobsters, COPS, COPS Reloaded and Jail that take place in real communities across America.

REELZ is available in more than 40 million homes on DIRECTV (238), DISH Network (299), Verizon FiOS TV (692HD), AT&T U-verse (799/1799HD) and Xfinity, Spectrum, Optimum, Mediacom, Philo, Freecast, DIRECTV Stream, Dish Sling and many other cable systems and major streaming services nationwide. Find REELZ in your area by visiting www.reelz.com. If REELZ is not available, or not in HD, on your cable, telco or streaming provider, we encourage viewers to call them and ask for it. Owned by Hubbard Media Group, REELZ is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM with national ad sales based in New York City with offices in Chicago and Los Angeles. 

REELZ library programing is available in more than 30 million additional homes and growing via major streaming platforms such as Amazon Channels, Fire TV, Roku, The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Tubi, Samsung Smart TV+, Vizio, Crackle, Xumo, Redbox, FreeVee and Local Now.  

The Rock No Longer Expected to Compete at WWE WrestleMania 39 (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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Plans for The Rock to compete at this year’s WrestleMania are seemingly on the back burner, according to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

The Rock hasn’t competed for WWE since 2016, when he got a six-second victory over Erick Rowan at WrestleMania 32.

It has been rumored for some time that the Great One would be returning this year to face his cousin and Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

The Rock

Reigns Vs. Rock is certainly a match worthy of headlining WrestleMania, but is unlikely to happen this year.

Dave Meltzer reports that The Rock has informed WWE that he does not believe he has enough time to get in adequate shape for WrestleMania.

Unless The Rock changes his mind within the next few days, a match between himself and Reigns won’t happen this year.

The report adds that even if a match doesn’t happen this year, he remains open to doing something with WWE in the future.

It is added that Rock’s involvement with next weekend’s Royal Rumble is “considered less likely than a few months ago.”

Meltzer also suggests the possibility that there is “something” being kept from everyone backstage.

Backup

The Rock may not be competing at this year’s WrestleMania after all, but WWE still has a plan without the People’s Champion.

In the Observer, Meltzer writes that WWE “has always had a backup direction” and always knew that The Rock was never a guarantee.

Without The Rock, the arguable favorite to win the Men’s Rumble match is Cody Rhodes, whose return was announced during RAW.

The Rock Talks Potential WWE Sale, Big Challenge New Owners Would Face

WWE Higher-Up is “Confident” Naomi Will Return in Time

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Superstar Naomi’s return to the promotion is just a matter of time, according to one higher-up with the promotion.

Naomi walked out with Sasha Banks (now NJPW’s Mercedes Moné) during the May 16, 2022, episode of Monday Night Raw, over a creative dispute with Vince McMahon.

Naomi and Mone felt that the planned feuds they were going to be in for the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships devalued the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles they had won at WrestleMania 38.

Confident

It is far too late for WWE to get Moné but there’s still time to win over Naomi.

One WWE higher-up who spoke to Fightful Select said they are “confident” she will be returning to the promotion.

The report adds that prior to the May 2022 walkout, Naomi’s contract was coming up and that she and WWE were excited for her to sign a new deal.

The new contract Naomi was on the cusp of signing was likely the biggest money deal the former SmackDown Women’s Champion had ever seen from WWE.

Naomi has reportedly kept positive contact with WWE despite the walkout and some have speculated that she could be part of next week’s Bloodline Acknowledgement Ceremony (as she is married to Jimmy Uso.)

The higher-up who is confident of her return did not provide a timeline for when fans can expect Naomi back on TV.

Naomi Outside of WWE

It has been over seven months since Naomi walked out, but she has been busy in this time.

In September 2022, Naomi and Moné walked the runway for New York Fashion Week, a first for both women.

The pair also appeared at the premieres for Marvel film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and walked the (green) carpet for the premiere of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.

The Glow made the trip to Japan earlier this month to watch Moné’s debut for New Japan at Wrestle Kingdom 17.

WWE Statement on Sasha Banks & Naomi Walking Out of Raw

Sami Zayn: Becoming WWE Champion is “Not Totally Unrealistic”

Thomas Lowson
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Sami Zayn may be the Bloodline’s Honorary Uce, but recent comments may have jeopardized that position.

Zayn has been associated with the group for close to a year now and has routinely helped out other faction members in matches.

The Canadian wrestler has had some tensions with the group, most notably with Jey Uso last year who didn’t believe he belonged.

Becoming WWE Champion

As a member of the Bloodline, Zayn’s role is to protect Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns from all potential challengers.

With that in mind, Zayn has dreams of becoming WWE’s top champion himself, as he explained to the Detroit News.

“When you get this close and you’re in the in the periphery of the WWE title, it makes you think, well, I’m already here, maybe winning it’s not totally unrealistic. That would for sure be like a cherry on top of everything else. If it happens, awesome. If it doesn’t happen, it still would have all been awesome.”

Sami Zayn.

Zayn’s former best friend Kevin Owens will face Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship next weekend at the Royal Rumble.

While Zayn hasn’t been declared yet for the Men’s Rumble match, some are considering him a dark-horse favorite in the 30-man bout.

Reflecting on his Career

Prior to coming to WWE in 2013, Zayn worked as El Generico in various promotions and has had plenty of success both in and out of the mask.

Reflecting on what he’s accomplished, Sami is proud of what he’s done, even though he is yet to have a WWE World title reign to his name.

“Whatever happens, I’m good. It could end tomorrow, and knock on wood, I really hope it doesn’t, but I would feel very complete and very satisfied with everything I’ve ever done.”

Sami Zayn.
Is Sami Zayn the “Top Performer in the Entire Industry?”

h/t – Fightful

Shawn Spears Announces Birth of his & Cassie Lee’s First Child

Thomas Lowson
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AEW’s Shawn Spears and fellow wrestler Cassie Lee are celebrating the birth of their first child, a baby boy they have named Austin Jay.

Taking to Twitter, Spears shared a photo of their son along with his name, a blue heart emoji and that he was born this past Tuesday.

The couple announced that they were expecting a bundle of joy last August with a post on Instagram.

We here at SEScoops would like to congratulate Spears and Lee on this joyous occasion.

Cassie Lee & Shawn Spears

The new parents met when they were working for WWE, where Lee was Peyton Royce and Spears was the ‘Perfect 10’ Tye Dillinger.

The couple married in August 2019 in a ceremony attended by multiple wrestlers.

In February of that same years, Dillinger announced that he had requested his release from WWE, which was granted days later.

Debuting at the inaugural AEW event ‘Double or Nothing’ Spears would establish himself as a heel and later become part of the Pinnacle.

During AEW’s debut in Toronto last October, Spears turned face and reverted to his ‘Perfect 10’ character from WWE.

As for Lee, she became a WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion in 2019, but would be released from WWE in April 2021.

Released at the same time as her IIconics tag-team partner Jess McKay (Billie Kay) the pair would join Impact Wrestling later that year.

In their debut, the team, now going by The IInspiration, would capture the Knockouts Tag Team Titles, the only team to hold both WWE’s and Impacts women’s tag gold.

In April 2022, both women requested their immediate releases from Impact and are taking a break from wrestling.

Peyton Royce (Cassie Lee) Talks The Breakup of the Iiconics & WWE Release
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