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Released AEW Star May be Returning to WWE

Andrew Ravens
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Malakai Black is an interesting star to follow now that he has confirmed that fans haven’t seen the last of him competing inside of the squared circle. 

As previously reported, Black received a conditional release from AEW despite having years left on his deal, which indicates that he has no plans to work for AEW President Tony khan again. 

Malakai Black Returning to WWE?

Malakai Black
Malakai Black

During today’s Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer discussed Black’s situation and how he wanted to return to WWE now that Triple H is in charge of creative. 

“He wrestled last night, which is interesting,” Meltzer said. “Then he put out a statement today and he wanted out from AEW. I guess we’ll see what happened. Obviously, he wanted to go back to WWE and he had a lot of time left on his deal. I think 4 and a half years left on the deal. It’s an interesting thing because it’s really difficult to keep someone who is unhappy under contract for that length of time. He did sign for that length of time. The reason you sign people to contracts is so that they can’t it they get unhappy or somebody makes an offer somewhere else, they can’t just go the next day. The whole reason he was signed to a 5-year big money contract was so if something happened in WWE and they wanted him back and they changed his mind, that they had him and they could book him for all those years. So it becomes an interesting situation and the same goes in the other direction too.”

It has yet to be confirmed that Black was offered a deal to return to WWE, but there have been multiple reports noting WWE has allegedly reached out to contracted AEW talent about coming back or joining the promotion. 

Meltzer brought up how Black wasn’t used much by AEW because he has been dealing with an injury. 

“I guess we have to wait for it to play out and see what the situation is. Basically, it’s what type of a deal he and Tony Khan came up with. Tony Khan wouldn’t talk about it. He talked a lot but didn’t say any specifics as to what the deal is. The story going around was that it was a conditional release and what that meant, I don’t really know. The assumption of a conditional release is that it’s probably something where he can’t just go right to WWE. Maybe there’s a timeframe or something like that. I don’t think he would agree to it if the timeframe was four and a half years.”

H/T to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription

Kenny Omega Pulled From AAA Appearance Due To Suspension

Jon Fuentes
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Kenny Omega will be missing Triplemania due to his All Elite Wrestling (AEW) suspension.

It was recently noted on Konnan’s podcast, “Keepin’ It 100,” that Kenny Omega will not be making the advertised TripleMania show for October 15. Omega was actually slated to headline the show, but due to his AEW suspension, that is no longer the case.

Konnan noted that both Omega and AEW head of talent relations Christopher Daniels confirmed “The Cleaner” will not be able to attend. Omega has found himself in the middle of a dicey situation in the AEW locker room.

Back at the AEW All Out pay-per-view (PPV) on September 4, then-AEW World Champion CM Punk made some disparaging comments about Omega and The Young Bucks in his post-show press conference.

This reportedly lead to a backstage brawl involving several people backstage, including Punk, Omega, and The Young Bucks, which latter led to several suspensions being handed out. Omega being one of the selected to be suspended.

After the fact, Punk was forced to vacate the AEW World Title, but this is more so due to injury. Also, Omega and The Young Bucks were stripped of the AEW Trios Championships after their suspensions.

It remains to be seen how much longer the group will be held off TV. However, it looks like Omega won’t be able to make any appearances for any promotion until the time is served out.

While he won’t be able to compete at TripleMania, other matches slated for the Mexico City event include Pentagon Jr. vs. Villano IV in a mask vs. mask match, Taya Valkyrie vs. Kamille for the AAA Reina de Reinas Championship, Hijo del Vikingo vs. an mystery opponent for the AAA Mega Championship, and Pagano vs. Cibernetico in a hair vs. hair match.

Kurt Angle On Concussions: I’m Starting To Not Remember Things

Jon Fuentes
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Kurt Angle seems to be feeling the affects of the concussions he’s suffered over the course of his professional wrestling career.

Angle recently took to his podcast, “The Kurt Angle Show,” and discussed suffering a few major concussions throughout his time in the ring. Angle noted that he’s now feeling the affects of those concussions, as he has begun to have memory issues.

“I would say I probably had four concussions that I know of. major. One was a slight concussion that wasn’t too bad. The other three were pretty bad.

“But, you know, even to this day, I’m starting to not remember things, you know, and I’m only in my early 50s. But, I’ve gotten a little damage to my brain, there’s no doubt about it.

“You know, my memory is not that great anymore. I really have to think hard about remembering the past.”

Kurt Angle
(via WWE)

The former Olympic gold medalist joined WWE back in 1998, quickly rising to main event status. After legendary feuds with the likes of Triple H, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, Brock Lesnar, and so many more, Angle has become one of the most decorated stars in WWE history.

He’s a six-time World Champion, as well as a former United States, Intercontinental, Tag Team, and European Champion in WWE.

Angle was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2017, and has since made sporadic appearances on WWE TV, including a stint as WWE RAW General Manager.

Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

WWE Considering Big Vince McMahon Farewell For WrestleMania

Jon Fuentes
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WWE could be considering a big farewell for Vince McMahon at WrestleMania.

Dave Meltzer confirmed initial rumblings that have been going around about WWE planning something special for McMahon during WrestleMania next year. The story was first reported by The US Sun this past weekend.

The report suggests that current WWE co-CEO/Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon is in the midst of those discussions. It also notes that Vince may not be fully done with the company yet, as WWE is looking at ways to pay tribute to him.

While the report did admit WWE knows there could be some backlash, it’s said that what he’s down for the industry can not be underestimated. There have also reportedly been talks of McMahon being honored at the WWE Hall Of Fame.

Vince McMahon

This would certainly be interesting, as Vince McMahon never likes to appear on-camera at the WWE Hall Of Fame ceremonies, but only made the exception to induct The Undertaker.

There aren’t any plans set in stone at the moment, but the discussions do seem to be ongoing. Meltzer noted he has heard rumblings of something like this for weeks but has not received official confirmation.

He did add in himself that it makes sense and would be something that he’s expecting.

Reason For WWE Booking Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul (Report)

Jon Fuentes
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We now have the reported reason for WWE deciding to book Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul at Crown Jewel.

As we’ve noted, Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul for the Undisputed WWE Championship will headline the Crown Jewel pay-per-view (PPV) on November 5. It’s a matchup that has a lot of professional wrestling fans scratching their heads booking-wise.

While Paul has been impressive in his short time inside the squared circle thus far, a matchup for the most prestigious title in the history of professional wrestling, against, arguably, the industry’s biggest star, is quite a jump up for his third-ever match.

However, it appears WWE has a specific reason for booking the matchup. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reports that Logan Paul is actually a big deal in Saudi Arabia, especially to the prince, and that’s all that matters in that regard.

Collage Maker 16 Sep 2022 03.45 PM

Ticket sales for the Saudi shows don’t really mean anything, neither do TV ratings in regards to the shows out of Saudi Arabia. Paul bringing in younger views would, of course, be seen as a bonus.

However, the Saudi prince wants to build the name of celebrity fights in Saudi Arabia, and believes Logan Paul will help generate more press than a Kevin Owens or Seth Rollins.

The Saudi shows are essentially used to give the prince the shows he wants and that he thinks will generate the best press for Saudi Arabia, and Logan Paul vs. Roman Reigns fits that criteria perfectly.

Survivor Series to feature 2 WarGames Matches, ‘Brand Warfare’ Dropped

Michael Reichlin
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WWE has announced major changes to the format of this year’s Survivor Series premium live event. For the first time in history, the November classic will feature not just one, but two WarGames matches. There will be a Men’s WarGames match and a Women’s WarGames match.

Also of note, Survivor Series will no longer feature a Raw vs. SmackDown theme. According to Triple H, the show will be more storyline-driven instead of being about brand supremacy.

Triple H spoke with The Ringer about the big shakeup coming to Survivor Series.

“The tradition of the Survivor Series has ebbed and flowed and changed slightly over time, but this will be similar to that,” he Triple H. “This will not be Raw versus SmackDown. It will be much more story-line driven. I still look at it as a traditional component to Survivor Series in there because it’s large teams of people competing. We just upped the ante a little bit with WarGames and made it evolve.”

No ‘Blood and Guts’ in WWE WarGames

WarGames has historically been one of the most violent matches in all of professional wrestling. Triple H doesn’t think WarGames needs to feature ‘blood and guts’ because the world is very different these days. He feels the world has evolved and blood is not necessary for a compelling WarGames match.

“I’m just of the opinion right now, given the state of the world and the pandemic, and at the end of the day, what we do is dangerous enough without intentionally making it more dangerous. Yes, we did [feature bleeding] for a long period of time, but we’ve changed that practice. And it’s irresponsible to go back.”

Visit The Ringer to check out their lengthy feature on the return of WarGames, featuring more quotes from Triple H.

WWE Survivor Series takes place November 26th from Boston, MA at the TD Garden arena. The event will stream live on Peacock int he United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

Trish Stratus Underwent Emergency Surgery Over the Weekend

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus says she has “3 new scars and one less organ” after undergoing appendectomy surgery over the weekend.

Stratus was experiencing bad cramping in her abdomen over the past several days. She feels that she has a high tolerance for pain, but things got so bad that she took herself to the hospital. It turns out that was a very smart decision, because doctors determined her appendix had to be removed immediately.

“Turns out my appendix was getting ready to burst – which can be really bad if it happens and like cause death and stuff so I’m really glad I went to check it out, you know to avoid the whole dying thing.”

– Trish Stratus

In a message she posted on Instagram, Stratus urges her fans to listen to their bodies and get checked out if something doesn’t feel right.

“Some takeaways – listen to your body. Dr. Google told me appendicitis was pain in the lower right abdomen, so that’s why it took me a while to think it was that because at first the pain was all across my belly. But after getting another Dr. Google’s opinion (reading another article) I found out it will start as pain across your stomach (also was tender to touch) but as the appendix gets more inflamed the pain will migrate to the right side and continue to to get worse. And boy did it. Turns out it’s an organ that serves no function so good riddance old pal.

Got 3 new scars to add to my body badges and one less organ … recovery hasn’t been too bad so far, definitely manageable. Just wanted to check in!”

Here’s the video of Trish at the hospital:

Ricochet Comments on NXT Changes, Making History, More

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Superstar Ricochet is excited for the future of NXT after the changes teased for the show on the latest episode.

This week’s NXT 2.0 marked the one-year anniversary of the show’s relaunch in September 2021, which was met with a hostile response by fans at the time. The latest episode ended with the NXT 2.0 fading into a black and gold design, which many have seen as the return of the original NXT.

Ricochet knows all about NXT, having joined the brand in early 2018 before his call-up the following year. Speaking to SEScoops correspondent Steve Fall for NBC Sports, Ricochet shared his views on the revamp, and is excited for the future.

“NXT 2.0 was trying something new, trying something different. I think it was just so sudden, so quick, that people didn’t get a chance to really adjust. That was the biggest aspect whatever you thought of it.

“But now I think it changing again, not back to what it was, but to something different, something that I feel like will be better… and it really might start be something bigger. Who knows? But I think it’s so cool to be thinking about the future.”

Making History

Ricochet has been with WWE for under five years, but has already made it into the proverbial ‘history books.’

Earlier this year, the high-flyer captured the Intercontinental Championship, making him the first (and only person) to hold that title, the United States Title, and the NXT North American Championship.

Ricochet explained how he wasn’t even aware of the accolade until it was pointed out.

“That was something that I was really unaware of until on Twitter, I found out. Someone posted it and I was like “Oh wow! I guess so!” But that’s awesome. Especially being organic and natural, not being something we planned, make it even better.”

Making it into WWE’s history books is extra special for the ‘One and Only,’ who opened up about thinking he’d never make it to WWE.

“Somebody, who didn’t even get into wrestling because they didn’t think they’d ever be in the WWE because they’re so small. So to now be in the history of books as far as that goes, and I feel like I have a couple more things that can go into the history book as well.”

Presentation

Ricochet’s Intercontinental Championship lasted under 100 days before he was dethroned by Gunther, and the One and Only missed out on competing at WrestleMania.

At the time, fans criticized WWE’s treatment of both the IC and U.S. Titles, which have both been featured more prominently in recent weeks.

Speaking about the WWE main roster mid-card titles, Ricochet spoke about the post-Vince McMahon era and the importance of presentation.

“I think just presentation of the championships has always been important to me. Around ’92 ’93 ’94 ’95 ’96 ’97 ’98 ’99 like it was all about the champion.

“I think there will probably be you know more light on those which I think will help viewers watch it a little better and understand okay they’re going after that. So I think it’s all going to be perceived it’s going to be a great product.”

Ricochet added that “everyone” is thinking up new ideas as part of the new creative direction for the promotion.

Please credit Steve Fall with a link to SEScoops if you use any of the quotes from this article.

Ricochet Was “Half Blind” When He Won The Intercontinental Title

Heath Slater Reveals Initial Reaction To 3MB

Anutosh Bajpai
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Heath Slater was part of many different storylines in his WWE career. One such run that people still remember to this day is 3MB. While the group was never given a real chance by WWE, the trio of Slater, Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal still managed to have some fun with it. According to Heath, it’s because they were friends in real life.

The One Man Band recently spoke to News18.com. Talking about 3MB, the former WWE star revealed how the three of them reacted when the group was first put together:

“3MB was so much fun man. We had fun. Of course, it was one of those gimmicks that we were like, ‘Man what in the world are we doing,'” said Heath Slater, “but the good thing about us is that we were friends outside of the business.

We would hang out when we were not wrestling and stuff. So when they put us all together, it was just like, ‘Well, at least we’re with our buddies, we can trust these guys.’ So it was a good thing. We did our best with that.”

3MB were formed back in September 2012 when Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal interfered in Heath Slater’s match against Brodus Clay. The group had a 2-year run before being disbanded in June 2014. This came after both McIntyre and Mahal were released from their contracts.

More Originals From SEScoops:

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

Ronda Rousey Explains Why She Won’t be on WWE’s European Tours Anymore

Thomas Lowson
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Ronda Rousey has been an active part of WWE’s roster since her return to programming this year, but she won’t be doing an entire overseas tour for the company.

Rousey returned after a nearly three-year absence from WWE programming at this year’s Royal Rumble, winning the 30-Woman match.

European Tour

Unlike several high-profile stars such as Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns, Rousey makes regular in-ring appearances for WWE at Premium Live Events and TV.

While her tenure on TV shows no signs of ending, a full European tour is out of the question.

During a live stream on her YouTube channel, the former Women’s Champion talked about why she would no longer be able to work a full European tour (via Sportskeeda.)

“I can’t do those (European) tours anymore now that I have P? [Rousey’s daughter] which sucks because it was really fun… I can’t really do a whole tour. I had to do like one arena or whatever, because London, O2 Arena, or something was a big deal.

“If they’re in a big venue or something, I’m like the emergency button. We’re having trouble selling out this venue. Quick, hit the “Ronda” button kind of a thing.”

Ronda Rousey the Mother

Becoming a mother was always something that the former UFC fighter turned WWE Superstar wanted to do.

After her first WWE loss at WrestleMania 35, Rousey took an indefinite leave from the company to start a family.

After years of trying, Rousey and her husband Travis Browne welcomed their first daughter La’akea Makalapuaokalanipo Browne.

Update on WWE’s Plans for Ronda Rousey

Kenny Omega Seen with “Unmistakable” Bite Mark From AEW All Out Fight

Thomas Lowson
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Kenny Omega has been seen in Japan with what is believed to be a bite mark stemming from the AEW All Out 2022 fight.

After the promotion’s latest Pay Per View, new-World Champion CM Punk had explosive comments about Omega, the Young Bucks, Colt Cabana, and ‘Hangman’ Adam Page.

Backstage, a fight broke out between the Elite and Punk with Ace Steel, resulting in all being removed from AEW programming.

The Bite

During the AEW All Out 2022 backstage fight, Ace Steel bit Omega on his left forearm, and pulled the hair of the former World Champion.

Last weekend, Omega was in Japan and appeared on a Capcom TV live stream, where a noticeable bruise could be seen where the bite is reported to have been.

Several outlets have reported that this bruising is from Steel’s bite on Omega, and is unlikely to have happened in a match, given the Cleaner’s suspension.

According to Fightful, the Capcom ‘live stream’ was filmed last week, so the bruise from a bite mark would still be visible.

Unmistakable

One source who saw Omega in Japan, who had seen the former World Champion after the fight said the bite mark was “unmistakable.” 

Another source told Fightful that Omega’s arm looked “disgusting” immediately following the fight.

It was also noted that Omega was “very verbal” after receiving the bite and furious over the situation.

Both sides have confirmed that the bite did occur, with a neutral source saying that the visible evidence on Omega’s arm means there’s no way Punk’s side could deny the bite happening.

Kenny Omega & Kota Ibushi Reunite In Japan (Photos)

Eric Bischoff On If He Had To Deal With Talents Going Off Script In WCW

Anutosh Bajpai
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Eric Bischoff was the head of one of the biggest wrestling companies during one of the wildest times in wrestling history. He had to deal with talents going into business for themselves every now and then. Though it was never really a big issue according to the former WCW President himself.

The wrestling veteran was asked if he ever had to deal with talents going off script during a recent 83 Weeks Q&A. Answering it, Bischoff mentioned that the WCW programming was very loosely scripted compared to WWE:

“We were very loosely scripted. It wasn’t like WWE where you get your dialogue, get your promo whatever it is and somebody is sitting in the gorilla and making sure you say every word the way it was written. It wasn’t like that. It was ‘Here’s the three or four bullet points we need. Here’s where we’re going. You need to end it with some heat, whatever. Go do it.’ It was very loosely scripted.”

‘Some Of The Best Stuff We’ve Ever Done’: Eric Bischoff

Eric Bischoff

Eric Bischoff then explained that there were times when people would go into business for themselves. Per the former wrestling executive, he dealt with each case individually depending on the severity:

“There were times when guys didn’t deliver what we were hoping they were gonna deliver. There were times when occasionally guys would go into business a little bit for themselves. Not completely. Not change the direction of the story or anything like that. Sometimes [they would] take liberties. That happened occasionally.

But you treated each one of them individually depending on the severity or whatever. Sometimes they made it better by the way, by going off script. Some of the best stuff we’ve ever done was probably off-script to a degree. It was never a big issue. Of course it happened, because of the nature of the way we produced.”

You can check out the full Q&A with Eric Bischoff below:

More Originals From SEScoops:

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

Christopher Daniels is Close to Ending his “In-Ring” Career

Thomas Lowson
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Christopher Daniels is well-aware that he will soon have to hang up his boots for good after a lengthy career in professional wrestling.

The 52-year-old wrestler made his debut in the industry in April 1993, and has worked for several promotions over the decades.

While best known for his stint in Impact Wrestling, Daniels has also competed for Ring of Honor, WWE, WCW, Chikara, AAA, and others, before coming to All Elite Wrestling in 2019.

Daniels signed with AEW in January 2019, becoming one of the first names to be contracted to Tony Khan’s company.

The End is Near

Taking to Twitter, the ‘Fallen Angel’ reflected on his career and working for so many promotions throughout his tenure.

Daniels also addressed that he is getting “close to the end” of the “in-ring part” of his wrestling life.

The former Ring of Honor World Champion gave no specific time for when he plans on retiring from the ring.

Daniels’ most recent televised AEW match was in July, where he lost on Rampage to fellow Impact and ROH alum Jay Lethal.

He did compete this month at the Tokyo Games Show representing AEW, where he defeated Chris Brookes but later lost to Konosuke Takeshita

Life Outside of the Ring

Daniels’ time in the ring may be coming to an end, but he does have a large AEW role outside the squared circle.

In addition to wrestling, Daniels serves as AEW’s Head of Talent Relations, which was confirmed during a February 2019 episode of Being the Elite.

Daniels recently returned from a brief suspension, following his role in the AEW All Out 2022 backstage fight.

Christopher Daniels on AEW Return: “I’m Sort of at the Mercy of Circumstance”

Brian Pillman Jr. Expresses Frustration With Creative Decision In AEW

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Brian Pillman Jr. thought that the addition of Julia Hart would have made The Varsity Blondes a great babyface group. He admits that he wasn’t happy with AEW management’s decision to take her away.

The AEW star recently made an appearance on Café De René with René Duprée podcast where he talked about a number of things.

Speaking about the creative decision to take Hart away from their tag team, Pillman mentioned that they lost their edge due to the call:

“As soon as we lost [Julia Hart], we lost our edge and our spark that made us a good babyface group that could’ve gotten over. But somebody came in and decided she would be better with [House of Black]. That’s just how it goes.

I definitely wasn’t happy with it to be quite honest.” said Brian Pillman Jr, “It is what it is. It’s business. I thought probably what really stopped us from seeing the true potential of the Varsity Blondes was that we lost her before we really got going.”

The Varsity Blondes originally consisted of Pillman, Griff Garrison, and Julia Hart. Hart however aligned herself with The House Of Black at Double or Nothing in May, leaving Pillman and Garrison behind.

Julia Hart remains with the AEW stable even without Malakai Black. The Varsity Blondes on the other hand have only made a total of 5 appearances since then, including appearances on AEW Dark.

Quotes via WrestlingInc

“Damn My Dawg” – Sami Zayn Reacts to Insult From a Member of The Bloodline

Robert Lentini
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Sami Zayn is an Honorary Uce and a member of The Bloodline, but that doesn’t mean that everyone in the group gets along with him.

The Locker Room Leader spent months trying to become friends with The Usos and Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Solo Sikoa recently joined The Bloodline and interfered in the main event of Clash at the Castle to help Roman retain the title. Roman, Solo, and Jimmy Uso all appear to get along with Sami but the same cannot be said for Jey Uso.

Solo Sikoa wrestled his first singles match on the main roster against Drew McIntyre on the September 9th edition of SmackDown. Before the match, Sami informed Solo Sikoa that The Bloodline will be here for him if he needs anything. Jey interrupted Sami and shouted that he already knows that. Sami responded with a brash “I know he know” and Sikoa said he wanted to do this on his own. Jey then changed his tune and suggested that the entire Bloodline accompany Solo to the ring for the match.

The Usos were ringside for Sami Zayn’s match against Ricochet on this past Friday’s episode of SmackDown. Ricochet hit Jey with a punch on the ring apron and Uso tried to get back into the ring for revenge. This resulted in the referee being distracted while Sami was going for the cover and allowed Ricochet to later pick up the win.

Sami Zayn Responds To Jey Uso Mocking Him

Sami Zayn took to Twitter today to respond to an image sent out by Jey Uso on Instagram. Jey posted a photo from yesterday’s press conference with Roman Reigns and Logan Paul for their Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th. The photo showed everyone in The Bloodline posing but Sami had his face replaced with a clown emoji. Sami simply responded “damn my dawg” in response to Jey Uso.

The 38-year-old also refused to hit Kevin Owens with a steel chair in his recent match against Jey Uso on RAW. Kevin picked up the victory after connecting with the Stunner shortly after Sami opted not to attack him.

Roman Reigns Didn’t Know Logan Paul Because He’s ‘Not A 15-Year-Old Little Girl’

Anutosh Bajpai
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The Crown Jewel press conference on Saturday saw the unlikely match between Logan Paul and Roman Reigns being made official for the upcoming show in Saudi Arabia.

The event saw both sides taking shots at each other including the YouTube star claiming that he didn’t watch The Tribal Chief before.

Reigns responded to the social media celebrity in an interview with Seconds Out. He mentioned that he didn’t know who Paul was because he’s not a ’15-year-old girl’:

“Before he came here, no disrespect, I didn’t know who he was. I’m not a 15-year-old little girl, I don’t watch Logan Paul or any of the Paul/YouTube Vlog people, that’s not what I do.

So I don’t have any problems with him not watching me,” said Roman Reigns, “Because he was busy doing what he does and that’s videotaping himself doing God knows what.”

The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion then advised Paul to continue videotaping himself and leave the true professionalism to people like him.

Apart from this, Roman Reigns also talked about things such as Tyson Fury getting involved in their Clash At The Castle match and Triple H taking over WWE creative. You can watch his full interview below:

Bayley Names 3 WWE Hall of Famers She Wants to Face With Damage CTRL

Robert Lentini
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Bayley has named three WWE Hall of Famers that her group Damage CTRL would like to face one day inside the squared circle.

The Role Model returned to WWE at SummerSlam alongside Dakota Kai and IYO SKY. The group of heels have become known as Damage CTRL. On Monday’s edition of RAW, Dakota and IYO captured the Women’s Tag Team Championships from Aliyah and Raquel Rodriguez. Bayley defeated Raquel on this past Friday’s edition of SmackDown.

Damage CTRL defeated RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair, Asuka, and Alexa Bliss at Clash at the Castle. Bayley pinned the champion to win the match and appears to be in line for a shot at The EST’s title.

Bayley recently was interviewed on Casual Conversations and revealed three WWE Hall of Famers that she would like to battle with Damage CTRL.

“Lita, Trish [Stratus], and Beth Phoenix. Get them out of here. This is our place. Don’t come back,” said Bayley. [13:22 – 13:32]

Trish Stratus recently confronted Bayley and Damage CTRL during a recent WWE Live Event in Canada.

Bayley on how “Macho Man” Randy Savage Drew Her to Wrestling

During the interview, Bayley discussed how “Macho Man” caught her attention and started her interest in wrestling. The 33-year-old stated that he was the first person that drew her into wrestling and noted the way he carried himself as the reason. She claimed that nothing in wrestling had caught her eye like Macho Man did up until that point.

“He was the first person that drew me to wrestling. It was the way he looked, the way he carried himself, and his charisma. I literally just saw him walk down the aisle in one of his outfits and I was like ‘oooh what is that?’ Nothing in wrestling until that point caught my eye like Macho Man did.” [13:49 – 14:06]

You can check out the entire interview in the video below.

H/T: Sportskeeda

MJF Fires Back At Fan Criticism: “I Don’t Play A Character”

Robert Lentini
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Maxwell Jacob Friedman, known to the wrestling world as MJF, has responded to a fan accusing him of playing a character in All Elite Wrestling.

MJF made his shocking return to the promotion at AEW All Out on September 4th. During the Casino Ladder Match, a group of masked men rushed the ring and attacked the participants. It was revealed to be Stokely Hathaway and “The Firm” faction (W. Morrissey, Lee Moriarty, Gunn Club, Ethan Page) working for MJF.

He came down to the ring in a devil’s mask to retrieve the chip guaranteeing a future title shot at the end of the match. MJF would go on to interrupt CM Punk’s victory celebration after his match with Jon Moxley at All Out. It was MJF’s first appearance since his legendary promo at The Forum on the Dynamite after Double or Nothing.

Time will tell if it was CM Punk’s final appearance in the company, as he suffered an injury during the match and brawled with The Elite during the All Out media scrum. CM Punk and The Elite have since been stripped of the AEW and Trios Championships.

MJF Responds To Criticism From A Wrestling Fan

MJF recently got engaged to his longtime girlfriend and shared the news on social media.

A wrestling fan responded to the news and claimed that it was “killing” MJF’s character. He brought up Sammy Guevara’s short-lived engagement that aired on the August 18, 2021 edition of Dynamite. The fan closed his tweet by misspelling Jamie Hayter’s name. Maxwell responded to the fan and pointed out the irony of his occupation being a lifestyle coach.

“Hey Joey. I don’t play a character. Never have. I’m MJF 24/7. MJF has a fiancé now. I see you’re a life coach. Pretty ballsy move considering you don’t have a life of your own. F*** off and die. Respectfully, Maxwell Jacob Friedman.”

Watch: Referee Charles Robinson Kicked In Face By WWE Superstar At Live Event

Robert Lentini
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WWE referee Charles Robinson is a legend in the wrestling business and can handle a kick to the face from time to time.

He has spent over twenty years with WWE, and worked in WCW for four years (1997-2001). In 1999, Charles aligned himself with Ric Flair and the Four Horseman. He was given the nickname “Lil Niatch” due to his alliance with Ric Flair in WCW. Charles had a WrestleMania moment of his own at WrestleMania 24.

During the World Heavyweight Championship match between The Undertaker and Edge, the Dead Man hit the Tombstone piledriver but the referee was down. Charles Robinson took the opportunity to sprint down the entrance ramp in a moment that will stand the test of time.

Charles Robinson Gets Accidentally Kicked In The Face At WWE Live Event

WWE held a live event last night in Bakersfield, California. Drew McIntyre teamed up with The New Day to face Imperium (Intercontinental Champion Gunther, Giovanni Vinci, and Ludwig Kaiser in a 6-man tag team match.

During the match, Drew McIntyre lifted Ludwig Kaister up onto his shoulders. Drew spun around and Ludwig accidentally booted Charles Robinson directly in the face. McIntyre dropped Ludwig to the mat and checked on Robinson as he exited the ring after the move.

The SmackDown official took to Twitter to post a video of the incident. The 58-year-old called Drew McIntyre a beast before informing Ludwig that his foot hurt his face.

A wrestling fan told Lil Naitch to “buck up” and claimed that he was tougher than that. Charles responded and joked that he kicked all their butts after the accident.

Malakai Black Breaks Silence & Confirms He Requested AEW Release

Robert Lentini
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Malakai Black has broken his silence in regards to the rumors surrounding his release from All Elite Wrestling.

House of Black competed in a 6-man tag team match against Miro, Darby Allin, and Sting at AEW All Out on September 4th. Sting spit mist in Malakai’s eyes and Darby followed it up with the Last Supper for the pinfall victory. Following the match, Malakai blew a kiss to fans and took a bow on the entrance ramp.

Malakai was reportedly granted a conditional release from All Elite Wrestling following the PPV. AEW president Tony Khan revealed during a conversation on Busted Open Radio that Malakai Black had almost five years remaining on his deal.

He addressed the crowd after his match at a Prestige Wrestling show this past weekend. Malakai said he needs a few weeks, or months, to recalibrate himself and put the past two decades into perspective. Black added “I promise you this is not a goodbye, it’s we’ll see each other soon”.

Malakai Black Issues Statement

In addition to addressing fans at the Prestige Wrestling event over the weekend, Malakai released a statement on his Instagram account. He said that he asked for his release from AEW due to several setbacks, including the suicide of a close friend and injuries. The 37-year-old added that he’s taking some time to “recalibrate” the last two decades of his life.

You can check out his entire statement below:

All.

Firstly thank you all for your messages, know they are being read and appreciated. With all the turmoil going on in the landscape of Professional Wrestling I took the time to think of my words but also needed to wait until conversations between mine and AEW’s camp had come to a conclusion.

Firstly, I dislike reading parts of my private conversations between myself and AEW in regards to my mental well being on the internet. These conversations were private and not meant to be shared with the public. As by now most people realize I am a very private person and do not feel the need to have stuff like this out on the internet.

If you’ve been following me longer than a cup of coffee you’re aware I’ve spoken about them prior but would like to be the one deciding when this finds it’s way to the public and not through someone else’s mouth, as with anything through the lips of someone else: that story gets distorted.

Secondly, to be in line with the above, they also need context:

I did indeed ask for my release, the last 2 years of my life have lended to a lot of set backs. Both me and my wife have been affected by uncontrollable actions from the outside that resulted in loss of life, medical set backs, career jeopardizing, the suicide of a close friend and a close family member almost losing their life, then experiencing an injury that I was sure was the end of my career.

I spend every week going through several sessions of rehab, dry needling and therapy just to be able to walk and compete. Now this being the tip of the iceberg and with the combination of the promises in my professional field that were not upheld which resulted as a combination of all of these to a complete demoralization of life and career. This decision had been in my mind for the past six months.

It’s hard to really put a finger and say “this was the moment it all went wrong.” But I can tell vou after many years that I have learned from a rational point of view to see when I need to hit the breaks; which is what this is.

Perhaps once my mind settles on certain things and processes the last 2 years a bit better I will convey (via a different platform than written out) what the exacts were that happened, and have a more informed conversation about them.

For now know that I am good, and am taking, for the first time in 22 years, a few months to recalibrate the last 2 decades of my life.

Lastly, I have read a few narratives online in regards to my “release”, mental health and my personal life that I can summarize swiftly; if it didn’t come from me, it didn’t happen. Stuff about conditional releases, stuff in my marriage or using said mental health to leverage the other when as I said before that part wasn’t even going to be part of the public conversation are false. My marriage is fine, I am fine. It is just time to make sure those things stay that way.

Once again, I appreciate your support and we will see each other soon enough.

MB

Final Card for MLW Super Series From Atlanta, GA

Michael Reichlin
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Major League Wrestling debuts in the Atlanta area tonight for MLW Super Series. This inter-promotional super card will take place from the Space Event Center in Norcross, GA will be an MLW Fusion TV taping.

Here is the final card for MLW Super Series 2022:

  • MLW Champion Alex Hammerstone vs. Bandido.
  • Willie Mack vs. Jacob Fatu in a Street Fight.
  • Laredo Kid & Komander & Microman vs. Gino Medina & Black Taurus & Mini Abismo Negro.
  • MLW Middleweight Champion Myron Reed vs. Shun Skywalker.
  • MLW National Openweight Champion Davey Richards vs. SB Kento.
  • Lady Shani vs. Lady Fammer vs. La Hiedra vs. Reina Dorada (Winner earns a shot at the MLW Featherweight Championship)
  • MLW Featherweight Champion Taya Valkyrie vs. winner of four way.
  • Alex Kane hosts a Peach State Prize Fight open challenge
  • Mance Warner vs. Mads Kruger

Plus the Samoan Swat Team will be there.

Love Him Or Hate Him, Logan Paul Is The Right Challenger For Roman Reigns At WWE Crown Jewel

Mike Chin
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Things took a turn for the WWE Universe recently, when a clear direction emerged for the next major challenger to oppose Roman Reigns. After The Head of the Table fended off Riddle in a free TV classic, Brock Lesnar in a wild Last Man Standing Match, and Drew McIntyre in front of a lively UK crowd, there were real questions as to where the company could go next with its top champion. They’ve opted for perhaps the least likely route of all, not in a grizzled veteran or wildly popular young talent, but rather Internet celebrity turned wrestler Logan Paul. While quite a few fans have expressed how unhappy they are with this booking choice, its actually a shrewd decision heading into Crown Jewel.

Logan Paul Vs. Roman Reigns Is A Fresh Matchup

Roman Reigns Logan Paul Press Conference

One of the key problems with Roman Reigns and his marathon reign atop WWE is that he has run through most of his credible challengers. He’s beaten Brock Lesnar multiple times. He beat Riddle and Drew McIntyre. He retained the title against the likes of Edge, Kevin Owens, Rey Mysterio, Seth Rollins, and Finn Balor. He even beat part time threats like John Cena and Goldberg.

Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes are two of the full-time roster members still standing in his way, and it stands to reason they’ll each factor in the title picture when they’re back from injury. Meanwhile, even Braun Strowman, who has a lot of momentum off his return to the company, already lost to Reigns at the front end of his time on top.

Logan Paul is, at least, someone new, with a genuinely different set of skills from other challengers Reigns has faced. On top of that, he does garner a bit of kayfabe credibility from winning his only two matches to date, and on no lesser stages than WrestleMania and SummerSlam.

No One Believes Roman Reigns Will Lose The Title In 2022

Roman Reigns Champion

The conventional wisdom is that Roman Reigns will retain his undisputed title until at least WrestleMania 39, when fans anticipate a dream match with The Rock. With that match expected, it’s hard to buy anyone beating The Tribal Chief before that point, so WWE’s task, rather than creating doubt, is to put forth the most entertaining spectacle possible.

The jury’s out on whether Logan Paul is the best man for that particular task. Nonetheless, he is an offbeat challenger who just might draw some extra media attention, if only for the seeming absurdity of him getting a shot at the most prestigious title in wrestling.

Logan Paul Has Overperformed In Each WWE Match He’s Had So Far

Logan Paul WWE SummerSlam 2022

While Logan Paul has no shortage of haters who want nothing to do with him, there’s also a reality they must face. At WrestleMania, he more than held up his end of the bargain, arguably the MVP of his tag team match paired with The Miz against the Mysterios. From there, he did everything he could to steal the show at SummerSlam, going for assorted high spots and feats of strength against The Miz.

Paul doesn’t really belong in the conversation of world title contenders at this point based on his skills and experience. However, his first two outings have offered reason to believe that he’ll rise to the occasion. Particularly in a match WWE is sure to carefully plan and choreograph around his abilities, Paul will likely as not hold up his end for an entertaining match at Crown Jewel.

Saudi Arabia Is The Best Place To Book Babyface Logan Paul Vs. Heel Roman Reigns

WWE Crown Jewel Live Crowd

An awkward aspect of Logan Paul’s WWE run is that he has purportedly demanded to remain a babyface, despite having overwhelming natural heel heat. On the flip side, Roman Reigns is over enough in his heel persona that he’s edging on fan favorite territory, despite reportedly insisting he wants to stay heel.

With these dynamics in place, staging the match between these two in front of a Saudi Arabian audience—fans who tend to be happy to be there and adhere to cheering the faces and booing the heels—may be the best answer to keeping each man where he wants to be.

Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul probably won’t be an all-time classic and there are justifiable reasons to criticize the choice for Paul to get a title shot at this stage of his career. Nonetheless, there are also quite a few factors to make this specific choice at this specific time make a great deal of sense.

Eric Bischoff Responds to Claims He’s Responsible for WCW’s Demise

Thomas Lowson
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World Championship Wrestling would be thriving to this day if not for the actions of Eric Bischoff, according to the man himself.

Bischoff joined WCW in 1991, initially as an announcer, but worked his way up the company, both on and off-screen.

In 1997, the man known as ‘Easy-E’ had the official role of President of World Championship Wrestling and would remain with the company until its end in March 2001.

Taking the Blame

A large part of Bischoff’s WCW was to attack WWE, infamously spoiling results of Monday Night Raw, which was pre-taped, during live episodes of Monday Nitro.

During the January 4, 1999 episode, announcer Tony Schiavone revealed that Mick Foley was set to become WWF Champion, causing hundreds of thousands of viewers to switch from Nitro to Raw.

Speaking on his 83 Weeks Podcast, Bischoff reflected on the criticism that his focus on WWE led to WCW’s demise.

“I went after WWE because I was focused on WCW. It’s part of the underlying narrative, if Eric would have been more focused on WCW instead of trying to take out WWE, WCW would still be around. I’ve heard that kind of thing for 20 years now.

“What people fail to recognize is that I made WCW number one, by focusing on WWE and by focusing on outperforming WWE… That’s why I brought in the Luchadores, created a cruiserweight division. All of those things were because I was focused on going after WWE.”

AEW

Nearly two decades after WCW left Turner Network television, AEW is hoping to also stick it to WWE.

The Tony Khan-led promotion has been popular so far, winning the Wednesday Night Wars, but has yet to match the ratings of WWE’s flagship shows: Raw and SmackDown.

On the podcast, Bischoff refuted the idea that Tony Khan poses any threat to WWE Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon.

“They’re delusional. They want you to be delusional because it’s like if you keep saying it, eventually people will believe it. Right? Just keep repeating the same nonsense over and over and over again. And people will eventually believe it.”

Bischoff has appeared for both AEW and WWE in recent years, though given his consistent criticism of Khan and his company, is unlikely to make more AEW appearances.

Eric Bischoff Wants to Write the Retirement of a Former WWE Champion

Sheamus Reveals Storyline That Helped Reignite His Passion For Wrestling

Anutosh Bajpai
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Sheamus is one of the longest-tenured stars of the current WWE roster. However, not everything he has done has been accepted by fans. The former world champion admits that his passion for the sport also wavered at times but there are a couple of things that have helped reignite it since then.

The Celtic Warrior spoke to Inside The Ropes. Talking about his longevity, he admitted that there were times when he felt that he had lost his passion a bit. According to the WWE star, his run with Claudio Castagnoli as The Bar helped get a lot of it back:

“You just stay motivated, man, you have to have the passion. I’m not gonna lie. There’s been times in my career where I felt I’ve lost that a little bit. When I started tagging with Cesaro, Claudio that got a lot of that back, when we did The Bar. I learned an awful lot from him too. Just being in the ring with him to tagging with him was great for me.”

‘Dropped Me Ego’: Sheamus

Wrestling is a physically demanding sport, and a lot of people quit because they cannot handle the physical toll of it. Sheamus explained that changing his workouts as needed has helped him stay healthy:

“I also learned a lot about like, I was lifting heavy for quite a long time. I was definitely starting to have wear and tear on my back and my neck and everything.

So I just started training smarter now as well. Dropped me ego and you know, just doing a lot more movements, stretches and the dynamic stretches that basically have kept my body loose, you know, so that’s the key as well. But I think ultimately the key is just to stay motivated and stay hungry.”

You can check out Sheamus’ full interview below:

More Originals From SEScoops:

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

Logan Paul Wants to Turn the WWE Universe Into a ‘Multiverse’

Thomas Lowson
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Is the WWE Universe big enough already? Not according to Logan Paul.

The Youtuber-turned-boxer has made an impression this year, having victories at both WrestleMania 38 and Summerslam.

Paul comes to WWE already with a sizable fan base, with his YouTube channel boasting over 23.6 million subscribers and close to six billion views.

Speaking to Bleacher Report after this week’s press conference, the YouTuber spoke about plans to expand WWE’s current fan base (via Sports Illustrated.)

“This is no diss to the WWE but I told them this before I signed my contract, I’m a good amplifier.

“I crossover big, mainstream events. The WWE is a universe and it’s huge, but I told Triple H I want to make this a multiverse.”

Paul also spoke about how he specifically can bring in people who wouldn’t necessarily watch wrestling.

“How do we bring in people who aren’t necessarily watching and interested in the WWE to the sport? I think I bring the eyeballs, I think they know it.”

Logan Paul in WWE

Logan Paul has honed himself on both YouTube and boxing, but wouldn’t make his in-ring wrestling debut until WWE WrestleMania 38.

At the event, Paul teamed with The Miz to defeat Rey and Dominik Mysterio but was attacked by the A-Lister after the match.

In July, Paul signed a talent contract with WWE, and defeated The Miz at Summerslam.

The Youtuber/Boxer’s next match will be against Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns on November 5 at the Crown Jewel event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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