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Natalya to Make NWA Debut at Crockett Cup 2025

Thomas Lowson
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Natalya to Make NWA Debut at Crockett Cup 2025

WWE Superstar Natalya, one of the most tenured performers on the roster, is stepping into NWA territory. The National Wrestling Alliance has officially announced that the Queen of Harts will be competing at Crockett Cup 2025, marking her first-ever appearance inside an NWA ring.

The Crockett Cup, one of the most storied tag team tournaments in wrestling history, is set to take place on May 17th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. However, the biggest surprise came when NWA revealed that Natalya would be in action. Though specifics about her role remain unclear, it has been confirmed that the former SmackDown Women’s Champion.

The Crockett Cup isn’t the only place outside WWE that fans will get to see Natalya in action. News of her NWA debut comes shortly after it was confirmed that Natalya will compete at Bloodsport XIII next month. The violent worked-shoot promotion has featured WWE talent in recent years and now Natalya is ready to prove how tough she is.

Natalya re-signed with WWE in 2024, ensuring that fans will see her compete for the promotion for years to come. Thanks to WWE’s current administration, however, the Queen of Harts will now have the chance to prove herself outside the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.

Natalya Calls Out Masha Slamovich: I’m Coming for Your Championship

Robert Stone Brings His Indie Wrestling Insight To WWE Evolve (Exclusive)

Dominic DeAngelo
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Robert Stone Brings His Indie Wrestling Insight To WWE Evolve (Exclusive)

Robert Stone’s surname may indicate something different but the NXT talent has shown he can be malleable in the world of pro wrestling.

Stone has been a presence on NXT for years, most recently as Ava’s assistant, but this Wednesday he’ll be donning a new role as color commentator for WWE Evolve, a show that will feature WWE developmental talent going up against top independent wrestling stars who are tagged by the WWE ID program. 

It’s been a groundswell greatly orchestrated under the experienced eye of Gabe Sapoulsky, whose wrestling mind roots stem all the way back to ECW and Paul Heyman. However, like most in wrestling, Gabe found his own route to WWE by working with Ring of Honor venturing to Dragon-Gate before forming the original Evolve. All that required him to be well-versed on the independent wrestling scene and his big payoff begins this Wednesday on Tubi. He decided to have Stone be one half of his team to call the action, and there may be no better choice.

Speaking with me ahead of Wednesday, Stone said with all that indy experience behind him, he is confident in what he’ll be able to do behind the broadcast booth alongside Peter Rosenberg, who will be doing the play-by-play.

Before heading to WWE, Stone was most notably known for his time as Robbie E in TNA, but before that he spent over a decade in the indies, even naming the WWE ID associate promotion out of Pittsburgh, International Wrestling Cartel (IWC).   

“Back in [2002]…I fought a guy named Dennis Gregory,” Stone quipped after the promotion was brought up (serendipitously enough, Gregory actually wrestled on the latest IWC PPV, Civil War this past month).

Peter Rosenberg & Robert Stone: The Next Talked About Tandem?

The pairing of Peter and Stone feels like a savvy move on Sapoulsky’s part as both personalities have a wide range of experience in very different, yet similar realms.

“It’ll be different,” Stone added with excitement, noting his dynamic with Rosenberg will be a fun one. Rosenberg’s professional experience comes with a diverse radio background outside of wrestling (hip hop and ESPN Radio) and Stone thinks that will greatly make the Evolve product stand out. He thinks Peter will bring the passionate fan’s perspective while he’ll be able to give his insight on how life on the indies affects these aspiring WWE Superstars.

WWE ID Has Future Names To Watch Out For

Stone assured he is all studied up for his new gig too. Speaking on names like Sean Legacy, noting of the independent star’s vast travel schedule which includes several stops overseas. Stone noted that Sam “Hardway” Holloway, a massively athletic WWE ID prospect hailing from Cleveland, OH, charges up memories of a late great ECW legend.

“He reminds me of Mike Awesome,” Stone said.  Holloway’s nickname is “Hardway” and Stone recalled back to when he saw Sam work at the WWE Performance Center. Holloway legitimately busted himself open during the training so the “Hardway” moniker wasn’t shocking to him.

However, what did shock him was John Cena on Saturday at Elimination Chamber. Like we all were, Stone was watching at home and saw John go full Manchurian Candidate, aligning with The Rock. This brought his thoughts back to Evolve and how perfect of a time it is to be a fan.

Who Stone is a fan of is Shawn Michaels. HBK is another legend that brings the experience with Robert reiterating that Michaels worked in the 80s, 90s, and beyond. Robert thinks Shawn brings that knowledge but understands how it plays in the modern pro wrestling landscape. 

Stone may be inspired by Michaels, but was he inspired by anybody when it comes to how he’ll handle himself on the call? Again with confidence, Stone said he isn’t influenced by other commentators, be it in wrestling or other sports. He’s focused on being the best version of himself on the headset and wanting to provide knowledge to the view. It’s all about being malleable.

MJF Claims Historic Wrestling Contract, Knows When He’ll Retire

Thomas Lowson
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MJF Claims Historic Wrestling Contract, Knows When He’ll Retire

MJF has made it clear for years that he is “Better Than You,” but the longest reigning AEW World Champion is also richer too. Speaking on the SI Media podcast with Jimmy Traina, MJF claimed the AEW contract he signed in 2024 makes him one of the highest-paid wrestlers in the industry. Though he didn’t give an exact figure, he claimed that reports of $15 million per year were “a little light.”

“I won the bidding war. WWE didn’t win the bidding war. AEW didn’t win the bidding war. I won the bidding war.”

MJF will be “absurdly young and making an absurd amount of money again” by the time his current contract is up. At just 28 years old, MJF has already built an impressive resume which includes a reign as AEW International Champion.

“The amount of money I get by the time [the AEW contract] is over, far surpasses $15 million. I’m making top guy money.”

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Despite his considerable success in the ring, MJF shared that he has a “hard out” for his full-time career. Coy as always, MJF didn’t disclose an exact age, but teased that it begins with a four.

“I have an age where I have a definitive out. That doesn’t mean I can’t come back to pop a crowd, sell some tickets, and sell some merch. But I won’t be on weekly TV forever.”

If MJF’s ‘four’ comment is honest, then fans can expect at least another dozen years of MJF as a regular on programming. With the Devil already building a Hall of Fame-worthy resume, with record-setting title reigns and major rivalries, fans are excited to see what’s to come for the longest-reigning AEW World Champion in the future.

MJF: Adam Sandler Personally Picked Me for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’

MJF: Adam Sandler Personally Picked Me for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’

Thomas Lowson
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MJF: Adam Sandler Personally Picked Me for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’

MJF’s Hollywood star is on the rise, thanks to his upcoming role in Netflix’s much-anticipated Happy Gilmore 2. Speaking on the SI Media Podcast with Jimmy Traina, the AEW star revealed that Adam Sandler himself selected him for a key role after watching his audition.

“Adam Sandler saw my audition and was apparently laughing like a hyena. Then he said, ‘I want this guy,’ and I got the role. And it’s a big one.”

MJF didn’t share specific details about his character but confirmed he has significant screen time in the sequel to the 1996 comedy classic. With fans waiting decades to see what the titular Happy Gilmore (Sandler) has been up to, the movie is expected to be a major blockbuster.

Becky Lynch Joins Cast of Happy Gilmore 2 

Happy Gilmore 2 will mark another big step for MJF in acting and comes after he served as an executive producer on The Iron Claw. On the podcast, the former AEW World Champion made clear that Hollywood is a major part of his future and is pleased his wrestling contract allows him the freedom to pursue acting projects.

“Tony Khan is a mark, but he’s not a dumb mark. The bigger I build my name, the more people search ‘MJF AEW.’ That helps everybody.”

Deadline reported  in a February 2025 report that the movie is slated to premiere on Netflix on July 25, 2025, though this date has not been confirmed by Netflix or Sandler himself. Whenever Happy Gilmore 2 hits screens, fans will get the chance to see MJF flex his acting muscles out of the ring.

MJF Confirms Shoulder Injury, But Dodges Surgery Question

Thomas Lowson
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MJF Confirms Shoulder Injury, But Dodges Surgery Question

MJF doesn’t like being questioned about his medical history, but has confirmed that his shoulder has been injured. On the SI Media Podcast with Jimmy Traina, MJF wouldn’t say whether he had undergone surgery or not on his shoulder.

“I hurt my shoulder. Did I have surgery? I’m not… what do they call it… HIPAA violations? You really shouldn’t ask me questions like that.”

When asked again, MJF remained vague and made clear that his shoulder is “good now.”

“When I take my shirt off, I am the most in-shape professional wrestler in my company—not that that’s hard.”

MJF missed months of in-ring action before returning to AEW programming in 2024, and isn’t interested in giving clear answers about his possible surgery. Instead, MJF is focused on reclaiming his spot at the very top of the company.

MJF’s first major test on that journey back to the top will come at AEW Revolution where he will battle fellow former World Champion ‘Hangman’ Adam Page. With two of AEW’s biggest success stories set to do battle, it remains to be seen whether MJF can dispatch of the Cowboy, and whether his shoulder will handle such a gruelling contest.

MJF Gets AEW Tattoo Removed On Dynamite

Of Course: MJF Loved John Cena’s ‘Awesome’ Heel Turn

Thomas Lowson
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Of Course: MJF Loved John Cena’s ‘Awesome’ Heel Turn

John Cena’s shocking heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber: Toronto stunned fans worldwide, as well as former AEW World Champion MJF. On the SI Media with Jimmy Traina Podcast, MJF confirmed he saw Cena attack Cody Rhodes, calling it an “awesome moment.” Unashamed to watch WWE’s current product, MJF took aim at wrestlers who pretend they don’t watch rival promotions.

“If you are a top guy and you don’t consume as much professional wrestling as you possibly can, can you call yourself a student of the game?” 

Cena and The Rock were joined by Travis Scott in their beatdown of Rhodes, though fans have taken issue with the rapper being part of such a shocking moment. While MJF acknowledged that Scott’s presence in the Rogers Centre was strange, he played devil’s advocate.

“Somebody might have said the same thing about Dennis Rodman standing with the NWO back in the day. But because Rodman was there, ESPN and major news outlets covered it. Maybe that’s what WWE was thinking.”

Cena’s heel turn is already being cited as one of wrestling’s most shocking and controversial moments. As someone who is no stranger to controversy, MJF compared his own career to Cena and argued that wrestling’s biggest stars never truly leave.

“You think The Rock doesn’t love the roller coaster? Where was he this week?”

MJF has a “hard out” for his full-time career in the ring, but like Cena, knows the power of an effective comeback. With questions remaining about what’s next for John Cena, fans, and MJF, will be watching the WWE icon very closely.

John Cena Turned Heel: Looking at the Clues, Why He Did It and How This Ends

Cody Rhodes Reportedly Injured at Elimination Chamber

Thomas Lowson
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Cody Rhodes Reportedly Injured at Elimination Chamber

Travis Scott didn’t just align with The Rock and John Cena at WWE Elimination Chamber: Toronto, but he also left Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes hurting. During the climactic three-on-one assault on Rhodes, Scott could be seen striking Cody near his ear, producing a loud thud that caused fans in the Rogers Centre to wince.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer revealed that Rhodes sustained a burst eardrum and a black eye at Elimination Chamber: Toronto. Meltzer shared that he was “pretty sure” that Scott caused the injuries given the strike to Rhodes’ ear.

Rhodes didn’t appear during WWE Raw, selling the effects of the beating he received in Toronto. During the show, Michael Cole confirmed that the American Nightmare will be a part of the March , edition of WWE SmackDown, where he’ll address all that went down.

Scott ended the night standing tall alongside Cena and the Final Boss but Rhodes might get the opportunity to take revenge on the music artist. Scott has reportedly been training in the ring, and WWE has discussed the possibility of booking him for future matches. During the post-show press conference, The Rock confirmed that fans will see Scott compete in the ring one day.

With Rhodes set to face John Cena at WrestleMania 41, it remains to be seen how their feud will develop in the coming weeks. With Travis Scott now involved, the storyline could take some unexpected turns.

Revisiting Cody Rhodes’ 2024 Comments on John Cena Never Turning Heel

WWE Referee Jessika Carr Hits Major Career Milestone

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Referee Jessika Carr Hits Major Career Milestone

On March 4, 2025, Jessika Carr, WWE’s pioneering female referee since 2017, reached a significant career milestone by officiating the main event of Raw on Netflix.

Known for her historic role as the first female referee in WWE since the 1980s, Carr shared her excitement on X, posting images from her appearances on both Raw and SmackDown, including a high-stakes women’s match featuring the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship.

The images captured Carr’s commanding presence in the ring, from managing intense moments with wrestlers like Iyo Sky and others to proudly displaying the championship belt.

Her post, which garnered widespread support from fans and peers, underscored her gratitude and determination, stating,

“Really cool to be able to say I’ve done both a SmackDown and now Raw on Netflix main event. Blessed. Grateful. Keep on pushing ??.”

Carr’s journey, highlighted by her role in major WWE events like the Elimination Chamber, cements her legacy as a trailblazer in professional wrestling, inspiring referees and fans alike with her dedication to the sport.

Jeff Jarrett Partners in Acclaim’s Relaunch Focused on Indie Games

Michael Reichlin
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Jeff Jarrett Partners in Acclaim’s Relaunch Focused on Indie Games

Acclaim Entertainment, the iconic publisher behind classics such as Mortal Kombat and NBA Jam, has been relaunched after over two decades. With WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Jeff Jarrett serving on its advisory board, the company now aims to support independent developers and breathe new life into its classic franchises.

Jarrett, who brings more than three decades of experience in sports entertainment and gaming, remarked, “Resurrecting Acclaim is an opportunity to impart the same degree of passion and love to a new generation, and I’m excited to be involved.”

The revitalized Acclaim plans to provide indie studios with essential resources, including funding, marketing, and public relations support, to help bring their creative visions to a broad audience.

Leading this initiative is CEO Alex Josef, a games industry veteran with over two decades of experience in marketing and publishing. Josef expressed enthusiasm about the relaunch, stating, “It’s an absolute honor and pleasure to be leading the charge in bringing Acclaim back to the forefront of the games industry.”

Acclaim’s strategy includes not only supporting new original intellectual properties but also seeking opportunities to reboot some of its classic titles. While specific game announcements are yet to be made, the company has hinted at exciting projects in the pipeline, with plans to release its first game later this year.

The return of Acclaim Entertainment signals a promising development for the gaming industry, offering both nostalgic revivals and fresh opportunities for indie developers.

For more, visit Hardcore Gamer.

Acclaimed Wrestling Games

Acclaim Entertainment had a notable history in the development and publication of professional wrestling video games, spanning multiple wrestling promotions and eras. Here’s a brief overview:

WWF Games

Acclaim began its relationship with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1988, debuting with WWF WrestleMania. Over the years, Acclaim released several WWF titles, including WWF War Zone (1998), which introduced groundbreaking features like the “Create-A-Wrestler” mode. However, Acclaim struggled to compete with THQ’s highly successful WCW games during the late 1990s, and WWE eventually left Acclaim for THQ.

ECW Games

After losing the WWF license, Acclaim pivoted to Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). It released ECW Hardcore Revolution (2000) and ECW Anarchy Rulz (2000). These games were essentially re-skinned versions of WWF Attitude but were notable for their ‘extreme’ content and Mature rating.

Legends of Wrestling Series

After ECW went bankrupt, Acclaim developed the Legends of Wrestling series, starting with the first title in 2001. This series focused on iconic wrestlers from various eras and promotions rather than contemporary rosters. It included features like video interviews with legends and expanded rosters across sequels like Legends of Wrestling II (2002). Despite its nostalgic appeal, the series did not achieve significant commercial success.

AJ Styles on Rejecting His First WWE Contract Offer: ‘I Was Making More Delivering Water’

Michael Reichlin
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AJ Styles on Rejecting His First WWE Contract Offer: ‘I Was Making More Delivering Water’

Before becoming a WWE legend, AJ Styles had an opportunity to join the company much earlier—but he turned it down for one simple reason: the money wasn’t worth it. Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Styles recalled how WWE offered him a developmental contract in 2001 after WCW folded.

“They offered me $500 a week to move to Cincinnati, Ohio,” Styles said. “I was already making $500 a week delivering bottled water, and I didn’t have to move or pay more in taxes.”

Another key factor in his decision? His wife. Styles was no longer flying solo, and had to think about his eventual family life.

“They said I’d have to move, but my wife couldn’t come with me. That was a deal-breaker,” he explained.

Instead of taking WWE’s offer, Styles carved his own path in the independent scene and later became a top star in TNA.

“As much as I wanted to train with them, it just didn’t make sense,” he said. “Looking back, I think I made the right choice.”

Interestingly, the developmental territory WWE wanted him to join—HWA—was shut down shortly after.

“I wouldn’t have made it through that cut,” Styles admitted. “Things worked out the way they were supposed to.”

And they certainly did.

AJ Styles Reveals Vince McMahon’s Brutal WWE Welcome: ‘I Got a Thousand Guys That Can Do What You Do’

AJ Styles Reveals Vince McMahon’s Brutal WWE Welcome: ‘I Got a Thousand Guys That Can Do What You Do’

Michael Reichlin
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AJ Styles Reveals Vince McMahon’s Brutal WWE Welcome: ‘I Got a Thousand Guys That Can Do What You Do’

AJ Styles’ surprise debut at the 2016 Royal Rumble remains one of WWE’s most iconic moments, but behind the scenes, Vince McMahon wasn’t impressed. On Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Styles admitted that McMahon had little faith in him from the start.

“A lot of people don’t know this, but he did not like AJ Styles. I gave him plenty of reasons—I’m not the tallest guy, I have a Southern accent—there were a lot of things to hate about me.”

After his Rumble appearance, Styles recalled McMahon’s blunt feedback.

“I got to the back and he told me, ‘I got a thousand guys that can do what you do.’ I was like, ‘What?!’ He wanted to see more intensity—he wanted a pitbull.”

The following week, Styles was on Miz TV, where he was encouraged to show more aggression.

“They told me, ‘Lay it in. Really put it in there.’ It was a test to see if I could bring that pitbull mentality.”

That change in approach won McMahon over, and Styles quickly became a top star.

“Once he saw that, everything took off,” he said.

Today, Styles is a two-time WWE Champion, proving that even if McMahon wasn’t convinced at first, the fans certainly were.

‘I Was Pissed’: AJ Styles Gets Candid About TNA’s Hulk Hogan Debacle

Anutosh Bajpai
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‘I Was Pissed’: AJ Styles Gets Candid About TNA’s Hulk Hogan Debacle

AJ Styles has opened up about Hulk Hogan’s failed stint in TNA.

The Phenomenal One recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet. He talked about things such as his recent foot injury, how long he plans to continue wrestling, his time in WCW and more.

During the talk, Styles also opened up about Hogan’s run with TNA. The former World Champion noted how the company had been steadily growing until the point they brought the Hulkster back into the fold in 2009:

“They hired Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff. I believe Eric was trying to do the right thing, to see where we’re at as far as getting more eyes on us that we’re growing. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out the way it was supposed to. We lost a lot of money.”

He Was Embarrassed: AJ Styles

Ultimately for the company, however, Hulk Hogan’s tenure proved to be a disastrous move. While he was part of some memorable moments during his early run, Hogan’s involvement mostly led to sub-par stories. During the 4-year run, TNA would distance themselves from all the traits that made the company popular in the first place, resulting in a steep decline in popularity.

Talking about Hogan’s work with TNA, AJ Styles said that he was mad at the WWE Hall of Famer for not promoting the product like he was supposed to. Per the former IWGP World Champion, however, he now realizes that Hulk was probably embarrassed to talk about the promotion:

“I think I was kind of pissed at Hogan at the time, because I was like, why doesn’t he talk about TNA? Why is he not helping us? He’s not advertising at all. He never talked about TNA. I was pissed, but I now realize I think he was embarrassed.

It was embarrassing to him to talk about that, so he didn’t. I think Dixie was trying to do some things, and it was just they keep butting heads, so it just kind of fell apart, and when it fell apart, they lost a lot of money.”

AJ Styles also noted that talents were asked to take pay cuts due to the company’s poor financial condition after Hogan’s run ended in 2013. This ultimately led to his own departure from the company when his deal expired a year later in 2014.

AJ Styles Recalls Scary Lisfranc Injury: I Thought This Is It

Thomas Lowson
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AJ Styles feared the worst after suffering a Lisfranc injury in October 2024, in his first match back on TV after a lengthy absence. Speaking on the Insight podcast, Styles recalled his fears at the time.

“I was like ‘This is it.’ How am I going to recover again? I was like ‘This might be it,’ and it sucked.”

Styles was frustrated when WWE’s cameras caught up to him after the SmackDown in Nashville, a reaction that AJ made clear was not an act. The injury was so severe that Styles was warned not to look into it, advice the veteran promptly ignored.

“My doctor, who is also my friend, was like do not look this up. I’m like I’m gonna look this up, and it’s a career-ending injury.”

A Lisfranc injury is commin in car wrecks and pro football, Styles added, and he was fortunate that he was able to return to the ring. AJ’s journey back to wrestling was no easy feat, however, as even the most basic of tasks proved difficult.

“It sucked. It’s so crazy that you have to learn how to walk again to a certain extent, like how did I forget how to run?…  It’ll mess with you.”

Styles has returned to the ring and has wasted no time in teasing big plans, including a feud with Logan Paul and chasing Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker. Though Styles has shared he only has a few years left in the ring, the Phenomenal One is ready to give his all and hopefully keep injury free from here on.

TNA Star Calls For Dream Match Against AJ Styles

How IYO SKY Made History With WWE Women’s World Title Win

Thomas Lowson
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How IYO SKY Made History With WWE Women’s World Title Win

IYO SKY didn’t just capture the Women’s World Championship on the March 3, WWE Raw, but she also made history in the process. In the main event of the show, SKY defeated Rhea Ripley to win the gold, kicking off her first reign as Women’s World Champion.

SKY’s victory wasn’t just big for her and Damage CTRL, but has etched the Japanese star’s name into the history books. With her win, SKY has become the first woman to win a Grand Slam in two major promotions.

SKY first achieved the feat in STARDOM, where she held every championship available to accomplish during her tenure. Not only is SKY a STARDOM Grand Slam Champion, but she was the first-ever wrestler to accomplish the feat.

The Genius of the Sky is the seventh Women’s WWE Grand Slam Champion, following in the footsteps of the Four Horsewomen, Asuka, and Rhea Ripley. The feat is accomplished when a Superstar has held the Raw/Women’s Championship, the SmackDown/Women’s World Championship, the NXT Women’s Championship, and the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.

With this victory, SKY is set to face Bianca Belair, the 2025 Women’s Elimination Chamber match, at WrestleMania 41. With her second WrestleMania title match in two years, IYO SKY continues to prove herself as a trailblazer in the ring.

‘This Is My Title!’: IYO SKY Celebrates Women’s World Championship Win

AJ Styles Promises Retirement By 50, Talks Final Opponent

Thomas Lowson
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0

Plans are still yet to be finalized for AJ Styles’ retirement from the ring, but the Phenomenal One knows exactly when he’ll hang up his boots. Speaking on the Insight podcast, Styles admitted that he’s been thinking a lot about his retirement from wrestling, though he’s yet to nail down the details.

“I should have known what I was doing by now. But it’s so hard because you enjoy it so much and I enjoy being around my friends.”

Styles clarified that as much as he loves competing for WWE, he also loves being with his family. With WWE’s product excelling in the way it has in recent years though, Styles is finding it harder to lock-down plans for his life after wrestling.

While Styles doesn’t have a plan for his retirement just yet, he at least knows when he wants to go. In the past, Styles has said that he’ll be done in the ring by the time he is 50.

“That’s correct. I keep saying that. I’ve said this and said this, but I will not wrestle at 50, I promise you that.”

Styles, who is 47 years old, does not have a final opponent in mind but with his immense talent, there will be no shortage on names wanting to work with the former WWE and TNA World Champion. In the meantime, Styles will continue to show his skills in the ring on Monday Night Raw, where he has proven to be the Phenomenal One.

TNA Star Calls For Dream Match Against AJ Styles

Lyra Valkyria Talks What’s Next After Successful Title Defense

Thomas Lowson
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0
Lyra Valkyria Talks What’s Next After Successful Title Defense

On the March 3, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, Lyra Valkyria retained the Women’s Intercontinental Championships against Ivy Nile. Speaking after the show, Valkyria admitted feeling worse for wear after facing the American Made star.

“I still have a black eye under this makeup from Ivy last week, and my knee has felt better. But she tried her best to take me out [and] was unsuccessful.”

Valkyria is proud to still be standing, despite her bad knee, and still be Women’s Intercontinental Champion. The Irish Superstar is ready for whatever comes next.

“I’m still Women’s Intercontinental Champion. Ivy Nile is in the past, and I’m excited for whoever and whatever comes next.”

Valkyria is the first-ever Women’s Intercontinental Champion after winning a tournament which saw her defeat Dakota Kai in the finals. With another successful title match under her boat, the Valkyria is ready to spread her wings and take her Women’s Intercontinental Championship to WrestleMania 41.

Lyra Valkyria Eyes WrestleMania 41 Dream Match Against Asuka

Sonya Deville Open To MMA Return After WWE Exit

Thomas Lowson
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Sonya Deville Open To MMA Return After WWE Exit

Daria Berenato spent years in WWE as Sonya Deville, but with this chapter of her life over, a return to the world of Mixed Martial Arts remains a possibility. While speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Berenato explained that she still holds a place in her heart for MMA.

“I love wrestling, but I love fighting in MMA just the same. They’re in the same boat right now. I had three amateur fights before I got into WWE.”

Berenato only stopped fighting because she was given an opportunity in WWE as part of 2015’s Tough Enough. After being cut from the promotion earlier this year, Berenato is ready to step back in the cage.

“That decision [signing with WWE] led me down the path I’ve been on for the last decade. But my first love was fighting, so that door isn’t closed either.”

Berenato was cut from WWE despite being a regular on TV at the time, a move that has caused concern among the remaining women’s roster. With many in WWE also unhappy about the handling of women in recent weeks, things have been far from plain sailing for the women of WWE on the Road to WrestleMania 41.

While Berenato is open to a return to MMA, a return to the wrestling ring will hinge on her 90-day non-compete clause with the promotion. One thing for certain, however, is that the former Women’s Tag Team Champion is far from finished with competing.

Sonya Deville Reveals How Vince McMahon Helped Her After 2020 Kidnapping Attempt

‘This Is My Title!’: IYO SKY Celebrates Women’s World Championship Win

Thomas Lowson
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0
‘This Is My Title!’: IYO SKY Celebrates Women’s World Championship Win

IYO SKY was at a loss for words after capturing the WWE Women’s World Championship during the main event of the March 3, edition of WWE Raw. SKY captured the gold by dethroning Rhea Ripley in a result many are calling a major upset, given Ripley’s on-screen domiance.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley caught up with the new champion, who was asked for her immediate reaction to her victory.

“I have no words anymore. It’s so surprising but I made it and the crowd gave a great reaction to me! Oh my gosh, and also I’m going to WrestleMania now.”

When asked how she plans to navigate the road to WrestleMania as champion, SKY vowed to continue to do her best and will always believe in herself. As champion, SKY’s future will see her face Bianca Belair, the winner of the 2025 Women’s Elimination Chamber matchm in Las Vegas.

“She’s so strong, she’s muscular. Literally the EST. But I am the champ and I am going to defend the title. This is my title!”

WrestleMania will mark SKY’s second year in a row entering WrestleMania as champion but the show will be extra special this time around. This April, SKY’s family, including her parents, will make the trip from Japan to Las Vegas to see SKY walk into WrestleMania as champion.

SKY’s epic victory comes at the expense of Rhea Ripley, who was distraught after losing the gold mere weeks ahead of WrestleMania. Nevertheless, it is now the Genius of the Sky who will walk into Allegiant Stadium with the WWE Women’s World Title around her waist.

‘Friends Are Not Real’: Rhea Ripley Is Emotional Mess After Title Loss On Raw

Anutosh Bajpai
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‘Friends Are Not Real’: Rhea Ripley Is Emotional Mess After Title Loss On Raw

Rhea Ripley was visibly emotional after unexpectedly losing the Women’s World Championship to IYO SKY In the main event of Raw.

The Mami had the match won but she was distracted by Bianca Belair cheering for IYO at the ringside. The distraction led to the two exchanging blows. The whole thing resulted in SKY taking advantage when the referee decided not to terminate the match and the Japanese star shocked everyone by walking out of the show as the new champion.

In the post-Raw interview, Rhea claimed that she can’t fully be mad at IYO or Bianca and she is more disappointed at herself. Ripley mentioned how she faced similar circumstances with Liv Morgan and The Judgement Day before. She is mad at not recognizing that ‘friends are not real’ and she needs to keep her eye on the prize at all times.

The now-former champion said that she understands that both IYO and Bianca have had journeys similar to her coming up from NXT. Belair however, is an opponent she has talked about facing at WrestleMania because of their past connection.

Rhea Ripley also admitted that she feels lonely after being thrown out of Judgement Day and Damian Priest being moved to SmackDown. She has been screwing things up since then and definitely feels ‘isolated’ at present.

It’s unknown where this storyline is headed. Though it seems logical that Ripley will find her way back into the title picture and we’ll see a three way for the championship at WrestleMania 41.

Becky Lynch Fires Back At CM Punk With AJ Lee Jab After Raw

Anutosh Bajpai
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Becky Lynch Fires Back At CM Punk With AJ Lee Jab After Raw

Becky Lynch had a fiery response to CM Punk bringing her up on this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

The Straight Edge star opened this week’s episode of the Red Branded Show with another pipebomb, calling out ‘Bald Frauds’ John Cena and The Rock for their actions at the end of Elimination Chamber.

Punk then turned his attention to the man who cost him the Chamber match in Seth Rollins, telling Lynch to ‘come get her man’ before he puts the Architect in a wheelchair for his actions on Saturday.

The former Women’s Champion responded to the jab on X with one of her own. In a now-deleted tweet, Becky Lynch poked fun at the relationship of Punk and his protege Roxanne Perez, suggesting that it’s AJ Lee who needs to come get her husband instead:

becky lynch tweet

The promo of Punk turned into a huge brawl when Seth Rollins showed up and the two continued their rivalry backstage when they met later on.

The backstage fight forced General Manager Adam Pearce to give in to the wishes of the two stars and he made a huge stipulation match between the two official for next week’s Madison Square Garden show.

Becky Lynch has defied all speculation of her WWE return in recent months. Despite being featured on the promotional material for Raw’s Netflix premiere, the former champion was not present at the show.

Having signed a new deal with the company recently, people have continued guessing when she’ll finally make her return to TV, but so far all the attempts at predicting her return have proven futile.

Watch: What Happened With Rhea Ripley After Raw Went Off Air

Anutosh Bajpai
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Watch: What Happened With Rhea Ripley After Raw Went Off Air

Rhea Ripley was as shocked at the conclusion of this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

The Mami defended her Women’s Championship against IYO SKY in the main event of the show, with the 2025 Women’s Elimination Chamber winner Bianca Belair looking on from the ringside. The two competitors fought hard proving themselves to be main event worthy. The action went outside the ring towards the ending of the bout with both women brawling in front of Belair.

Belair and Rhea then got into a heated exchange after which Ripley shoved the former Tag Team Champion onto her chair. Belair responded by having a go at the defending champion in return. A scuffle like this generally results in disqualification but Referee Jessika Carr decided that a main event title match will not stop over this kind of bickering.

What Happened After Raw

Rhea Ripley got back into the ring and went for a Riptide. SKY, however, countered it into an avalanche Frankensteiner, following with a Diving moonsault for the surprise pin. The show went off air with IYO celebrating her victory. The Judgement Day star remained at the ringside in disbelief for a while after the broadcast ended, before finally heading to the back.

Bianca on the other hand, confronted IYO SKY who she will now be challenging for the title at WrestleMania 41 before heading to the back. The new champion remained in the arena the longest, greeting the fans for a while after her big victory at the show before going out.

IYO SKY Wins Women’s World Title, Will Face Bianca Belair At WrestleMania 41

Thomas Lowson
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IYO SKY Wins Women’s World Title, Will Face Bianca Belair At WrestleMania 41

IYO SKY will walk into WrestleMania as a champion for the second time in a row, after capturing the Women’s World Championship on Raw. During the main event of the March 3, edition of Raw, SKY dethroned Ripley to win her second singles title on the main roster.

Despite SKY’s immense skill, many are seeing this victory as a major upset given the high-profile of Rhea Ripley. Many had assumed that it’d be Ripley Vs. Bianca Belair, the winner of the 2025 Women’s Elimination Chamber match, at WrestleMania 41. Not only are Mami and the EST two of WWE’s most popular female talents, but they both arrived on WWE’s main roster around the same time. Instead, it will be SKY who puts gold on the line against Bianca Belair at WrestleMania.

This title change raises questions as to what Rhea Ripley’s creative direction for WrestleMania looks like. Some fans have speculated on her finding a way into the title match, making it a triple-threat contest. Some believe Ripley could resume her feud with Liv Morgan, this time for the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Whatever happens, the Road to WrestleMania sure got a lot more complicated during the March 3, 2025, edition of WWE Raw.

Natalya’s WrestleMania Week Booking Puts WWE Future In Doubt

Anutosh Bajpai
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Natalya’s WrestleMania Week Booking Puts WWE Future In Doubt

Natalya has been booked for a big event during the WrestleMania 41 weekend in Los Angeles but with an interesting twist.

Josh Barnett announced on social media late on Monday night that the former Women’s Champion will be making her GCW debut next month.

The announcement confirmed that the female star will be competing in the 13th edition of Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport on April 17, two days before WrestleMania 41.

What’s interesting about this appearance is that while her WWE past was acknowledged in the poster, the wrestling veteran was billed as Nattie Neidhart instead of her well-known ring name.

While the former Women’s Champion has been regularly booked by WWE in 2025, she has mostly been relegated to Main Event and WWE Speed matches. Her only main roster appearance so far this year was at Royal Rumble.

Female WWE talents have recently been concerned about their spot in the company after the abrupt exit of Sonya Deville. Deville had been in active negotiations with the officials for a new contract so the decision to not renew her deal came as a surprise to even the former WWE star herself.

While WWE has been more willing to allow signed stars to make appearances outside of the company in recent times, the timing and build for the event definitely raises questions about Natalya’s future with the promotion.

Jey Uso: GUNTHER Has Awoken A Beast In Me

Thomas Lowson
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Jey Uso: GUNTHER Has Awoken A Beast In Me

World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER has awoken a beast in Jey Uso, according to the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble winner. On the March 3, 2025, edition of WWE Raw, GUNTHER defeated Otis. Jey tried to prevent a post-match attack by the champion, but A-Town Down Under attacked him before GUNTHER choked Jey out.

Later in the show, Jey spoke with Cathy Kelley and admitted that all he’s heard is that “he can’t do it.” He stated that Gunther had him doubting himself, and his back was against the wall. Jey recalled GUNTHER warning him of weeks of hell, but is now more determinend than ever to become World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania. GUNTHER may have put him to sleep on Raw, but the Austrian has awoken a beat, according to Main Event Jey.

Jey’s unlikely journey to the World Heavyweight Championship scene has sparked a debate among fans with fans both for and against the push of the former tag-team star. Nevetheless, Jey Uso will challenge for the gold this April, and plans to show the world, and GUNTHER, what the beast inside him is capable of.

Huge Steel Cage Match Announced For WWE Raw Return To Madison Square Garden

Anutosh Bajpai
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Huge Steel Cage Match Announced For WWE Raw Return To Madison Square Garden

A WrestleMania main event caliber steel cage match has been made official for next week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from Madison Square Garden. CM Punk opened this week’s episode of the Red Branded Show with another one of his iconic promos, calling John Cena and The Rock ‘bald frauds.’

The promo turned into a huge brawl with the introduction of Seth Rollins into the mix after Rollins cost Punk his chance to main-event WrestleMania at Saturday’s Elimination Chamber PPV. The officials had a hard time separating the two as they continued to brawl for several minutes in one of the best opening segments of Raw of all time.

The Stage Is Set For Roman Reigns’ Return

Rollins and Punk did not wait for the next opportunity to tear each other apart for long after this, however, as they went at it again backstage not long after their fight in the ring. Seth then had a shouting match with Adam Pearce surrounded by security. Finally having enough, the Raw General Manager gave in to The Architect’s demands and booked a steel cage match between the two bitter rivals for the March 10 episode of Raw.

This match at the legendary arena perfectly sets up the stage for the return of Roman Reigns and it’d be interesting to see which of the two end up being his primary target on the show. The Tribal Chief has not been seen on WWE TV since Royal Rumble where he was eliminated by CM Punk and then taken out with multiple brutal curb stomps by Rollins.

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