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Details on the Lengths of New WWE Contracts

Andrew Ravens
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Since taking over WWE main roster creative, Triple H has brought back several wrestlers that had been let go. 

Fightful Select reports that wrestlers who were brought back for the SmackDown brand are on three-year contracts that are set to expire in the Summer of 2025. Hit Row has matching deals that expire around the same time and are on those three-year deals. Some wrestlers brought back had representation and were able to negotiate different contracts.

Other Talent

Triple H press
(BT Sport)

Several stars brought back “were able to negotiate the ability to utilize some outside projects and platforms that they would not have been allowed to do at the time they were released.”

Many of those rules were relaxed as far back as WrestleMania 38 in April and are even more relaxed. 

The preparation of some of these returns has ranged from the day before to several days out or in weeks. It was weeks in the making for Johnny Gargano, while Karrion Kross and Scarlett were just days. WWE had plans to bring in Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows for over a month. 

Triple H has brought back Karrion Kross, Scarlett, Dakota Kai, Dexter Lumis, the three members of Hit Row, Karl Anderson, Luke Gallows, Emma, and Mia Yim.

AEW Full Gear Betting Odds Revealed

Ryan Droste
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With AEW Full Gear taking place this Saturday night in Newark, New Jersey, more and more information about the event is starting to unfold. We expect the card to be finalized tomorrow night during AEW Dynamite, and last week we got clues that The Elite will be at the event.

Now, we have the latest betting odds on the event revealed, courtesy of our friends at BetOnline.

  • MJF is a favorite (-700) to capture the AEW world title in his match with Jon Moxley (+400).
  • The Acclaimed are tied as the biggest favorites on the show (-2000) to retain their AEW Tag Team Championships against Swerve in our Glory (+700).
  • Chris Jericho is a slight favorite (-240) to retain the ROH title against Bryan Danielson (+235), Claudio Castagnoli (+500), and Sammy Guevara (+1000).
  • Jade Cargill is favorited (-2000) to retain the TBS title against Nyla Rose.
  • “Jungle Boy” Jack Perry is a clear favorite (-700) against Luchasaurus (+400).
  • In her big return match, Saraya is favored (-700) against Britt Baker (+400).
  • Darby Allin and Sting (-500) are clear favorites against Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett (+300) in their tag team match.
  • Toni Storm is a very slight favorite (-140) to retain the AEW Women’s Interim Championship against Jamie Hayter (+100), the closest line on the show.

Stay tuned to SEScoops as we get you ready for AEW Full Gear this weekend.

Check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news. Apple – Spotify – YouTube. 

“Issues” May Keep AEW From Releasing CM Punk from Contract (Report)

MJF Honored his Late Grandfather After Beating CM Punk

Andrew Ravens
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Although MJF is arguably one of the best heels in the business, he has been getting more and more cheers as of late from fans following his return to AEW at All Out in September. 

His latest post on Twitter will also give him more sympathy with fans as he noted that an outfit he wore during a previous edition of AEW Dynamite was, in fact, modeled on his late grandfather.

The AEW star shared a picture of himself side by side with his late ‘Poppa’ wearing the outfit and then a photo of himself in similar clothes during the February 9 edition of AEW Dynamite. This show was right after MJF beat CM Punk in their first match. He wrote the following in the caption:

The Photo

MJF
(AEW)

“Two years since your passing. Ik you’ll be watching on Saturday. Thanks for teaching me how to style and strut, Love you Poppa. #Penniesfromheaven.”

MJF’s character has significantly developed as he toes the line between heel and face. At this Saturday’s Full Gear pay-per-view event, MJF will challenge Jon Moxley for the AEW World Heavyweight Title. 

After his post-Double or Nothing absence, MJF returned to AEW by winning the poker chip in the Casino Ladder Match, thanks to Stokely Hathaway, which earned him this championship match. Since then, he cut ties with The Firm and Hathaway after they disobeyed his orders not to attack Moxley.

Bianca Belair Aims to be Successful Outside the ‘Wrestling Bubble’

Michael Reichlin
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Bianca Belair has lofty dreams that extend far beyond the squared circle. The EST of WWE has been the Raw Women’s Champion since defeating Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 38 back in April. 7 months later, her career is looking more promising than ever.

Belair signed William Morris Endeavor (WME) in August. The powerhouse Hollywood agency will help build her brand across podcasting, acting, marketing and more.

During a recent interview with Metro, she spoke about her desire to always branch out into new areas and challenge herself creatively.

“I’m super excited for it,” Belair said of the WME partnership. “I don’t like to sit still at all, I like to do everything. I like to utilize all of my talents. At one point in my life, I’d have never thought of being a WWE superstar, and now I am!”

Belair and husband Montez Ford are working on a new show that will air on Hulu some time in 2023. If she has here way, that’s just the beginning.

Hollywood Dreams

Belair wants to see herself on the big screen and would love star in a film opposite WWE legends such as The Rock or John Cena. She credits them both for creating the blueprint for WWE Superstars to transition and do multiple things.

The Rock and John Cena have both moved on from being full-time Superstars, although there’s hope each of them will get back in the ring one day.

The allure of Hollywood can be very powerful, but Belair insists that she’s not looking to leave WWE any time soon. She wants the best of both worlds, and thinks it’s possible to become successful outside of WWE and then use her fame to draw new fans to pro wrestling.

“I can’t think of myself as anything other than a WWE superstar,” she continued. “I’m still in the business. I’m just getting started. I’m still honing my craft.”

“I have so much more to do, but right now I’m just multitasking and go outside the wrestling bubble and bring more eyes to the product. That’s my goal.”

– Bianca Belair

Belair is set compete in the Women’s WarGames match at Survivor Series later this month. As team captain, she’ll lead Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim and one more partner (TBD) into battle against Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky), Nikki Cross and Rhea Ripley.

Details on Late Changes Made to Monday’s WWE Raw

Andrew Ravens
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Just because Vince McMahon is no longer running the WWE main roster creative and Triple H is in charge doesn’t mean that plans for weekly television don’t change at all anymore. 

This week’s episode of WWE Raw was not immune to change as Fightful Select reports that WWE switched up plans for Dominik Mysterio on the show as he was not initially listed to wrestle on the show.

The Changes

Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio

The report stated, “There were several revisions to the lineup. Dominik Mysterio was originally not scheduled to wrestle. Rollins vs. Balor was made a United States Title match, and Elias & Riddle vs. Alpha Academy was set for the show.”

Mysterio is still going strong with the Judgment Day stable, and all signs might point toward a WrestleMania 39 with his father, Rey Mysterio, who is currently out of action with an injury.

Also on this show, Mia Yim got a new entrance song and nickname. Fightful’s report also noted that “Michin,” her new nickname, which means “crazy’ in Korean, will be used from time to time and the company will also refer to her as Michin, but the working plan is for Mia Yim to still be used moving forward.

Yim is still finding her footing after returning to WWE recently after being away following her departure alongside several other stars that were released in 2021. 

WWE to Introduce a New Match Type

Andrew Ravens
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0

Hours after a listing for a new trademark filed by WWE was published for the term Iron Survivor Challenge, the reasoning behind the filing may have been revealed. 

According to the United States Patent & Trademark Office database, WWE filed for the trademark on November 10th under Entertainment services. 

A new match type is coming to the NXT brand under this name, according to Fightful.

What’s The Match?

WWE Arena
(via WWE)

The report stated the Iron Survivor Challenge may have some “scramble” element to it, and other “unique” elements have been pitched for the gimmick bout.

WWE has been hyping that WWE Hall of Famer & Senior Vice President of Talent Development Creative Shawn Michaels will appear on tonight’s NXT, where he is slated to issue a statement about the NXT Deadline Premium Live Event on Saturday, December 10, that doesn’t have a main event match confirmed for it yet. 

Sources implied to the media outlet that Michaels’ announcement would be related to the Iron Survivor Challenge, but that was not confirmed. 

NXT Champion Bron Breakker will defend the title against Von Wagner in the main event of Tuesday’s show. 

Kazuchika Okada Interested in Wrestling The Rock, Makes Voice Acting Cameo in Japanese Version of “Black Adam”

Andrew Ravens
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Kazuchika Okada is one of the biggest stars in the history of New Japan Pro Wrestling but has never wrestled in WWE. In a dream match scenario, it doesn’t get much bigger than a match between Okada and The Rock. 

At a recent press event for “Black Adam” in Japan, Okada worked on the Japanese dubbed version of the film “Black Adam,” which stars the former WWE Champion. 

The top NJPW star attended a press event to promote the film that will be released in Japan on December 2nd. During it, the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion was asked if there was any interest in getting in the ring with the film’s leading man.

Kazuchika Okada vs. The Rock

“It looks like he can fight. He looks like he can do it [Okada joked about the Black Adam figure]. I think we can have a match… Well, as a fellow pro wrestler, I’d like to have a match with him [Dwayne Johnson].”

The Rock hasn’t wrestled in 8 years, with the last time being a quick six-second squash win against Erick Rowan). Okada is set to challenge for Jay White’s IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at January’s NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17.

Since opening on October 21, the film has grossed $351,573,563, with $150,573,563 coming domestically and $201,000,000 internationally. 

H/T to POST Wrestling for the transcription

Health Update on Randy Orton

Andrew Ravens
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Randy Orton has been a top star in WWE since 2004 after being paired with Triple H, Batista, and Ric Flair in Evolution, but he has missed the majority of 2022 due to a back issue. 

Orton has not been on WWE television since May, when The Usos defeated RK-Bro in a unification title match on an episode of Friday Night SmackDown. Orton was attacked by The Bloodline to be written off television following the match.

Initially, WWE anticipated the back injury would require surgery and force him to miss the rest of the year. It had not been confirmed that Orton underwent the knife.

Randy Orton Update

randy orton
(via WWE)

Orton was spotted in Birmingham, Alabama this week which is typically where WWE sends its wrestlers to get surgery. As it turns out, Orton was hospitalized for an undisclosed procedure.

“If y’all only knew why this pic was taken”

As seen below, Kim wrote a touching message about their relationship.

“7 wonderful years with the man of my dreams. You’re bat shit crazy (but so am I) I trust you, and you trust me ?? we could conquer the fucking world together (if we feel like it) but for now I just want you to be my daddy and me to be your momma and raise our beautiful children together as one big happy family. FAMILY??LOVE??LOYALTY?? we have that tattooed on our bodies because it’s the most important thing to us. ME, YOU, OUR FAMILY AND CLOSE FRIENDS, that’s all that matters. Thank you for loving me the way you do.”

“Issues” May Keep AEW From Releasing CM Punk from Contract (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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0

CM Punk’s AEW career may continue for months to come, even if he isn’t featured on Television.

Punk debuted in AEW last year after a seven-year hiatus from wrestling following his controversial exit from WWE in January 2014.

After explosive comments made on the All Out 2022 post-show media scrum, as well as a backstage fight, Punk has been suspended from the company.

Punk Staying?

It has been reported that AEW seeks to buy out the remainder of Punk’s contract and release their problematic two-time former World Champion.

Reports of Punk’s exit come at a time when it is reported that WWE is trying to lure ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin back for one more match.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that “issues” may prevent the long-anticipated Punk Vs. Austin match.

“If you’re looking for the match that’s going to shake up the business, the Punk match is the one. But I don’t know that Punk will have a release [from his AEW contract.] There’s just a lot of issues there.”

Dave Meltzer.

Austin has been sharing workout videos over the past week and looks in shape for another match.

19 years after his WrestleMania 19 loss to The Rock, Austin competed at this year’s WrestleMania with a win over Kevin Owens.

Could Punk Return?

As soon as reports began that AEW could cut Punk, rumors circulated of a WWE return.

Last month, it was noted that WWE’s Head of Talent Triple H has “softened” his stance on Punk, and that the two could make amends.

Punk and WWE have been very hostile against each other since Punk’s 2014 walkout.

A WWE higher-up said last month that they are against the idea of a Punk return and would ‘vote no’ on the idea.

Report: Talent who know CM Punk Predicted AEW Run Would Go Poorly

Another AEW Star Dealing with an Injury (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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0

Yet another prominent star from All Elite Wrestling is reportedly dealing with an injury.

This year has seen several top names from the promotion go down hurt, including CM Punk (twice) and Bryan Danielson.

Adam Cole has been out for months due to a concussion, while ‘Hangman’ Adam Page is also on the shelf.

This week, it was reported that Abadon suffered an injury while competing at an indie event.

Luchasaurus Injured

Luchasaurus is just the latest AEW star to have been bitten by the injury bug, according to Bryan Alverez.

During the latest Wrestling Observer Live, Alverez suggested that the former AEW World Tag Team Champion has injured his right arm.

“This Luchasaurus is hurt. I don’t know if you noticed, but he did a left-armed chokeslam. He’s hurt. I don’t know how long he’s been hurt, but he’s been hurt for a while now. Hopefully, it’s not something serious.”

Bryan Alverez.

Despite this reported injury, Luchasaurus is scheduled to face Jungle Boy at Full Gear this weekend in a Steel Cage match.

Luchasaurus Vs. Jungle Boy

In 2019, mere months into AEW starting, Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy would form the popular Jurrasic Express, and would capture the World Tag Team Championships in January of this year.

Later recruiting Christian Cage, Jurassic Express would lose the titles in July, and Cage would turn on Jungle Boy, with Luchasaurus also turning on Jungle Boy.

At Fyter Fest Week 2, Luchasaurus turned on Christian Cage to realign with Jungle Boy, but this proved to be a short-lived team, and turned on Jungle Boy again at AEW All Out.

Luchasaurus Says Dusty Rhodes Helped Create His Character

Saraya: I’ll Get My Rematch with Sasha Banks

Thomas Lowson
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0

AEW wrestler Saraya is ready to step back in the ring with Sasha Banks, nearly five years after their infamous December 2017 match.

Saraya debuted for AEW at their Grand Slam episode of Dynamite, despite WWE’s new regime trying to bring her back.

The former Paige departed WWE in July of this year in one of the final acts before Vince McMahon retired.

The Rematch

Saraya’s in-ring career ended due to an injury suffered in a six-woman tag, after taking a kick by Sasha Banks.

Now cleared to compete again, Saraya said she’s open to a rematch with The Boss as she made clear to Chris Van Vliet.

“That’s what I said [in response to Van Vliet saying Banks and Saraya should wrestle.] I really wanted to have that match with Sasha. I wanted to have that rematch with her, because we have that built-in story. So I really wanted that.”

Saraya added that Banks was one of the first people she told after doctor’s cleared her to wrestle, as The Boss had stressed for years over the injury.

Despite being in different companies, Saraya remains optimistic about a rematch.

“One day I’ll have my match with Sasha [Banks.]”

Saraya.

Banks’ Absence

Even if Saraya was still with WWE, a match with Banks would be unlikely at this time, given the latter’s suspension.

Sasha Banks (and Naomi) haven’t been seen since walking out of the May 16, episode of Raw over a creative dispute.

Speaking about Banks, Saraya said that it is great to see Banks try her hand outside of the ring.

“She’s going down her own path and stuff now, she’s doing her own thing. You don’t know where she’s going to be, she has an exciting life going on right now. I’m very pleased [for her.] She’s building her career outside of wrestling too. It’s awesome.”

Banks has been building her portfolio outside of wrestling, launching her own CBD Oil company with ex-Superstar Kalisto, and appearing in Disney+ hit ‘The Mandalorian.’

Britt Baker

On last week’s AEW Dynamite, Saraya not just confirmed that she is medically cleared, but added that she’ll be facing Britt Baker at Full Gear 2022.

Ahead of arguably the most important match of her career, Saraya had plenty of praise for the former AEW Women’s World Champion.

“Now I get to face Britt [Baker.] I’ve always wanted to face Britt, and in this brand-new company as well. The crazy part is that she’s always been a big fan of mine… She’s a fan of mine so it is cool that I get to have my comeback story with her and she’s so supportive, so I’m excited. I’m excited.”

AEW Full Gear 2022 will take place this Saturday at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Out of the Ring

Though she is cleared to wrestle, Saraya will not be 100% focused on her wrestling career at this time.

Outside of the industry, the former Divas Champion has plenty of opportunities and projects which she plans to keep working on.

“I’m still focusing on things outside of wrestling and still building Saraya up as the brand, rather than [just] Paige and being a wrestler. I’m still in the mindset of still building that, but it’s so good to be in the mindset that I can do something I’ve been in love with my whole life.”

Outside of wrestling, Saraya has a successful Twitch channel, and launched her own brand of clothing and cosmetics during her retirement.

Saraya Inspired By Stone Cold to Make an In-ring Comeback

Bobby Lashley Taking Career Advice from a Maniacal Bird

Michael Reichlin
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Bobby Lashley is having one of the best years of his WWE career. He’s fought Brock Lesnar twice, with each man claiming a victory over the other. He had an impressive run with the United States Championship and elevated that prize through a series of dominant title defenses.

Unfortunately, Lashley’s US title reign recently came to an end at the hands of Seth Rollins. Since then, Lashley has been hell-bent on reclaiming what he feels is rightfully his. The Almighty is usually known for his calm demeanor, but he wants WWE Superstars to know he won’t hesitate to inflict pain on anybody who stands in his way.

Lashley spoke with Cathy Kelley backstage after Monday’s Raw and said you can’t be ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ and expect to get ahead. If you do, people will take you for granted and walk all over you. Those days are over. He’s got a new mindset – thanks to a “little birdie” that showed him the light.

“What I’ve come to understand here is that you have to take what you want around here because if not, you get walked over” said Lashley. “I played ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ for way too long. I started to get to this point a little birdie came and told me in my ear, ‘If you just are hurting people and taking people out, who’s gonna stop you?’ I kind of thought about and it’s true.”

“The biggest, baddest person around, Brock Lesnar, I threw him around like a little kid. So now after that, I come in with a little different change of heart and a different mind-frame with everything else. [I’m] still a nice guy, but I’ll hurt anybody that steps in the ring with me from now on.”

Lashley vows to get the United States Championship back from Rollins, one way or another. Ever since Roman Reigns unified the WWE Championship and the Undisputed Championship earlier this year, the US title is the top prize on the Raw Brand. Lashey knows the prestige that comes with holding the gold and is putting Rollins on notice once again.

Details on WWE’s New “Iron Survivor Challenge” Trademark

Michael Reichlin
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0

WWE recently filed a trademark application that sheds light on a new show in the works.

On Thursday, November 10, 2022, World Wrestling Entertainment applied to trademark the name Iron Survivor Challenge. According to the United States Patent & Trademark Office database, the ‘Goods and Services’ usage description includes:

  • Entertainment services, namely, a show about professional wrestling;
  • Entertainment services, namely, the production and exhibition of professional wrestling events rendered through broadcast media including television and distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media;
  • Providing wrestling news and information through broadcast media including television and distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media;
  • Providing information in the fields of sports and entertainment through broadcast media including television and distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media;
  • Providing a website in the field of sports entertainment information

The ‘Goods and Services’ description implies this will be a new show, either on television, the Peacock streaming service (‘WWE Network’) or the company’s online platforms such as YouTube.

We’ll keep you posted when we’ve got more info on WWE’s Iron Survivor Challenge.

WarGames Rules Explained for WWE Survivor Series

Michael Reichlin
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WarGames returns at WWE’s upcoming Survivor Series premium live event. It will be the first time the infamous double steel cage match takes place at WWE’s fall classic.

There have been over a dozen WarGames matches since the match was first introduced back in 1987. The number of participants on each team, the intervals that wrestlers enter the match and other rules have varied. Below, we’ll lay out exactly what to expect from WarGames later this month.

There will be two WarGames matches at Survivor Series (Men’s and Women’s) on Saturday, November 26th. WWE has yet to announce the participants for the men’s match, although you can be sure The Bloodline will be involved.

The women’s WarGames match is nearly set. It will be Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim and one more TBD partner facing Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky), Nikki Cross and Rhea Ripley.

Women's WarGames Match

WarGames Rules Explained

Here are the official rules for the WarGames matches that will be taking place at WWE Survivor Series 2022:

  • Two teams will be contained in separate cages with one member of each team starting the match.
  • After five minutes, a member from the advantaged team will be released to enter the match.
  • After a three-minute period, alternating members from each team will enter the match until all competitors are inside the cage.
  • Once all the competitors have entered, WarGames officially begins.
  • The only way to win the match is by pinfall or submission.

The Creation of WarGames

WarGames was created by the late “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes.

Here’s a video of Rhodes talking about the creation of The Match Beyond:

The Undertaker Recruited Viscera into the Ministry of Darkness to Avoid Wrestling Him

Thomas Lowson
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Viscera was a long-term member of the Ministry of Darkness, but he wasn’t recruited into the group due to his in-ring ability.

The group was founded in October 1998 and was led by The Undertaker until its end in September 1999, when the Phenom went on a hiatus from WWE programming.

Members of the group included Paul Bearer, the Acolytes, the Brood, and Mideon, and the group would later unify with the Corporation to form the Corporate Ministry.

Recruiting Viscera

Once known as Mabel, Viscera was abducted by the Ministry during the 1999 Royal Rumble, and later reintroduced under his darker persona.

Speaking in an interview with Monte & The Pharoah, Ministry alum Mideon admitted that Viscera was recruited because The Undertaker didn’t want to face him.

“He was a giant human being, but he was a little reckless sometimes. When ‘Taker was doing The Ministry, ‘Taker was like, ‘We’re gonna bring Viscera in.’ I’m like, ‘Why?’ He goes, ‘Then we don’t have to work with him.’ I was like, ‘F*cking genius!’”

Mideon.

After being released the following year, Viscera would return to WWE in 2004 as the ‘World’s Largest Love Machine.’

In 2007, his character would change again to ‘Big Daddy V’ before his final release from WWE in 2008.

Avoiding the Match

The Undertaker had no interest in facing Viscera, but we can hardly blame the Phenom for avoiding the match.

In 1995, Mabel attacked The Undertaker, hitting the future WWE Hall of Famer with a series of leg drops.

Instead of hitting the Undertaker’s chest, Mabel struck the Phenom in the face, resulting in a broken orbital bone.

This botch earned Mabel significant heat backstage and would go on to lose to The Undertaker in a Casket Match at In Your House 5: Seasons Beatings.

h/t – Sportskeeda

Fans Chant for Swerve in Our Glory During Mia Yim’s First Match Back with WWE

Thomas Lowson
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0

Mia Yim made her return to in-ring competition on this week’s WWE Raw, but some fans were far more interested in her husband.

Yim returned to WWE last week by attacking Rhea Ripley and has aligned herself with the O.C. in their war with The Judgment Day.

Formerly Reckoning of Retribution, Yim was released from WWE in November 2021 as part of mass releases due to ‘budget cuts.’

Yim on Raw

After returning to Monday Night Raw last week, Yim faced Tamina Snuka in her first match back this week.

During the match, some fans in attendance in Louisville, Kentucky chanted for Swerve in Our Glory, referencing Keith Lee’s AEW tag team with Swerve Strickland.

Lee, a former NXT and NXT North American Champion was also released in November 2021 over budget cuts.

Later in the show, Yim would be announced for Team Belair at Survivor Series WarGames.

The chants for Swerve in Our Glory can be heard at 1:28 and 1:54 in the video below.

Yim Outside of WWE

Mia Yim is back with WWE, but did plenty during her time away from the promotion.

In February 2022, Yim married Lee in a ceremony officiated by WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley.

Yim returned to Impact Wrestling in May 2022 at the Under Siege event, having previously worked for the company as ‘Jade.’

Yim would challenge for the Impact Knockouts World Championship on multiple occasions but would always come up short.

Yim’s final match saw her face Taylor Wilde in a losing effort, mere weeks before her WWE return.

Mia Yim Fires Back at Claims About Keith Lee

AJ Styles vs. Finn Balor Set for WWE Survivor Series, Updated Card

Robert Lentini
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0

Finn Balor spent weeks trying to recruit AJ Styles to the Judgment Day but the Phenomenal One declined.

Balor decided to attack AJ Styles and the Good Brothers (Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson) returned to the company to make the save. Mia Yim has since returned to the company and joined The OC in their battle against Judgment Day.

On last week’s edition of RAW, Finn Balor attempted to accept Seth Rollins’ Open Challenge but The OC interrupted.

On this week’s episode of RAW, Finn faced Seth Rollins in the main event. The match was originally supposed to be a non-title bout but Byron Saxton announced it was for the United States Championship a couple of hours before the red brand went on the air.

The Judgment Day was ringside for the match and once again The OC got involved. The two factions brawled through the crowd as Rollins and Balor trade strikes in the ring. In the end, Seth hit the Stomp for the pinfall victory. Austin Theory attacked Seth after the bell and beat him down to close the show.

AJ cut a backstage promo earlier on RAW and challenged Balor to the match. The Phenomenal One added that their rivalry will come to an end at the PLE. WWE made the match official during the main event on social media.

Announced Card for WWE Survivor Series WarGames so far:

  • Finn Balor vs. AJ Styles
  • Women’s WarGames Match: Damage CTRL, Nikki Cross, Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair, Asuka, Alexa Bliss, Mia Yim, and an unknown superstar
  • SmackDown Women’s Championship: Ronda Rousey (c) vs. Shotzi

Xavier Woods and Da Party Finally Announced Reunion Date

Samantha Schipman
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0

Several weeks ago, members of “Da Party” (Xavier Woods, Adam Cole, Claudio Castagnoli, and Tyler Breeze) posted a video at the same time asking “R U Ready?”

On Monday, another video was posted by each member. Breeze said he was calling because it’s been a long time and “we haven’t played anything.” The rest of the group offered suggestions such as Halo, Elden Ring, and League of Legends. Breeze stopped them and told them, “we know what we’re playing.” The camera cuts to each one and they all look overjoyed with Breeze’s suggestion.

How to Join Da Party

Xavier Woods Da Party

“Da Party” will finally reunite on Sunday, November 20 at 10 PM (no timezone given, but East Coast is assumed) on Twitch. The Twitch handles for @TheSweetZLive, @ClaudiosCafe, and @TheChugs.

The video ended with “You know what to do…..”

A “Da Party” reunion was teased a year ago with many assuming it would take place on Wood’s G4 show. Sadly, G4 has shut down. Luckily for “Da Party” fans, Twitch will be the host. This will be their first time playing together since “Chuggs” (Cole) left WWE for AEW last year.

Former WWE NXT Cruiserweight Champion Worked Main Event Before Monday’s Raw

Andrew Ravens
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0

The trend of WWE bringing in NXT stars to work episodes of Main Event at weekly Raw events has continued. 

Monday’s Raw (November 14) marked the main roster TV debut for former NXT Cruiserweight Champion JD McDonagh as he wrestled Cedric Alexander in a singles match at the taping. Also, 

McDonagh has been used prominently on NXT TV since he officially moved to the brand from NXT UK in July and given a new name after being known as Jordan Devlin. Once moving to NXT, he has been in the NXT Championship picture with champion Bron Breakker most of the time.

McDonagh in Action

Jordan Devlin
(via WWE)

McDonagh did work two non-televised main roster UK tour house shows in 2017 and various inter-brand events like Worlds Collide, but this would mark his televised main roster debut.

The other NXT talent in action on Main Event this week is Kiana James, who wrestled Asuka. James is someone that WWE management seemingly is interested in calling up to the main roster in the near future as this is now her third appearance on Main Event in four weeks.

Fallon Henley, Josh Briggs, Brooks Jensen, Carmelo Hayes, Cameron Grimes, Von Wagner, Duke Hudson, Xyon Quinn, and Wendy Choo are just some of the NXT names that have been put in this spot for WWE officials to get a look at these stars on a bigger stage. 

JD will wrestle Apollo Crews on Tuesday’s episode of NXT. Main Event is taped right before Raw every Monday and airs on Thursdays on Hulu.

Chris Jericho on Heat with Triple H in WWE: “There Were a lot of Issues Between the Two of Us”

Robert Lentini
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Chris Jericho spent the majority of his career in WWE but has found a new home in All Elite Wrestling.

Jericho is currently the Ring of Honor Champion and will be defending the title in a 4-Way against Bryan Danielson, Sammy Guevara, and Claudio Castagnoli at AEW Full Gear on November 19th.

The 52-year-old recently signed a contract extension with All Elite Wrestling, which reportedly surprised some in WWE that were expecting him to return and go into the company’s Hall of Fame.

WWE Expected Chris Jericho to Return in 2024 (Report)

Chris Jericho on His Issues with Triple H

Jericho discussed his issues with Triple H in the past and claimed that The Game almost got him fired because he had heat with Chyna back in the day.

Speaking on his Jericho Chronicles Q&A session on his podcast, The Wizard said he called Triple H for directions once and The Game shouted at him to “buy a map!” as his pals laughed in the background. Jericho added that he had heat with Chyna and that furthered his issues with Triple H.

There were a lot of issues between the two of us. There’s a problem that I had with Chyna that was kind of predicated by him.

Chris claimed that most of the heat stemmed from WWE guys not wanting WCW guys in the locker room.

There was a lot of animosity for real, because I had the audacity to come to WWE. People didn’t like it. They didn’t want WCW guys coming to WWE, because they felt we were inferior. So you could do ten things right, but if you did one thing wrong, you were under a microscope and you were in trouble. And those guys had pull, so they’d bury you to Vince.

Le Champion added that he almost got fired a month in to his WWE career after a meeting with Jim Ross, Blackjack Lanza, and Vince McMahon.

I almost got fired about a month in, I got called into a meeting with Vince, JR, and Blackjack Lanza and Vince said ‘The problem with you is the drizzling sh*ts. You’re not worth the paper your contract is printed on. You’re green as grass.’ I was like ‘Lighten up dude.’ There was a lot of heat, shall we say.

H/T: Ringside News

Seth Rollins to Defend US Title, Multiple Matches Changed Ahead of Tonight’s WWE Raw

Robert Lentini
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Seth Rollins attempted to have an Open Challenge for the United States Championship last week and Finn Balor accepted.

However, The OC interrupted and Mia Yim made her return to the company to battle with Rhea Ripley. Rollins retreated out of the ring but issued the Open Challenge once again and it was accepted by Mustafa Ali backstage.

Bobby Lashley then attacked Seth Rollins and accepted the Open Challenge. Rollins won the US Title from Lashley after The Beast Brock Lesnar attacked The All Mighty. Lashley got his revenge on Rollins last week and attacked him instead of having a match.

Austin Theory took the opportunity to cash-in his MITB contract on Seth but it backfired. Bobby got Theory in the Hurt Lock and Rollins capitalized with a Stomp for a pinfall victory.

WWE Raw Results, Takeaways (11/14/22): Road to Survivor Series, Seth Rollins Defends US Title

US Title Match Added to WWE Raw

Seth Rollins and Finn Balor were originally supposed to square off in a non-title match against each other tonight on the red brand. RAW correspondent Byron Saxton took to Twitter and announced that the bout tonight was now for the United States Championship.

Hello everyone, we are just a couple of hours away from Monday Night RAW.

We have some breaking news, tonight in Louisville at the KFC Yum! Center, Seth “Freakin” Rollins is now going to defend his United States Championship against the Judgment Day’s Finn Balor.

It is going to be a jam-packed evening tonight on Monday Night Raw.

Matt Riddle’s Match Changed Before Tonight’s Show

Matt Riddle was scheduled to team up with Elias tonight but that match has been changed. The duo were supposed to face American Alpha tonight on the red brand but Riddle will battle Chad Gable in a singles match instead.

WWE posted a preview for the tag team match earlier in the week that read:

Ever since returning, Elias has had a tough time, most recently suffering a loss to Otis. He has, however, found a fan in Matt Riddle, who keeps insisting they form a band. With Elias’ musical talents and The Original Bro’s superb bongo ripping, the two would light up an audience.

Now, they get to do just that as they team together for the first time to take on Otis and Chad Gable of Alpha Academy, who will look to make Nov. 14 the day the music died.”

The preview has since been replaced for the singles match between Riddle and Gable tonight.

3 Reasons Austin Theory Losing His MITB Cash-In was the Right Call

Logan Paul on His Match Against Roman Reigns at WWE Crown Jewel: “I’ll be Doing This for a Long Time”

Robert Lentini
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Logan Paul wrestled just the third match of his career in the main event of WWE Crown Jewel last weekend.

  • 9 Best Moments from WWE Crown Jewel 2022

The 27-year-old battled Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship to close the premium live event in Saudi Arabia. The Usos interfered in the match, which resulted in Logan’s brother, popular YouTuber and boxer Jake Paul, to rush the ring.

Jake sent Jimmy and Jey to the outside as Solo Sikoa made his way down the entrance ramp. Logan hit Solo with a dive over the top rope but got caught with a Superman Punch when he got back into the ring. The Tribal Chief finished the challenger off with a Spear to retain the title. After the match, Logan took to social media to announce that he suffered a major injury at Crown Jewel.

Logan Paul Suffers Injury at WWE Crown Jewel

Logan Paul Reacts to his Match at WWE Crown Jewel

WWE released behind-the-scenes footage of Logan Paul’s journey to Crown Jewel. Before the match, he claimed that he had no nerves and that performing is what he does best. He noted that he discovered wrestling at 27, but feels comfortable in the ring and claimed that he will be doing it for a long time.

“No nerves, to be honest,” said Logan Paul. “Like when you prepare as much as I do for events of this magnitude, there’s nothing left to do but to go show up and perform. And honestly, like, this is what I do best. This is what I do best in the world. I discovered it at 27, but I feel so comfortable in the ring. I’ll be doing this for a long time.”

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

WWE Raw Results, Takeaways (11/14/22): Road to Survivor Series, Seth Rollins Defends US Title

Robert Lentini
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The Road to Survivor Series continues this week on WWE Raw live from the KFC YUM! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Seth Rollins defended the US Title against Finn Balor. In addition to the takeaways below, WWE announced the official rules for the upcoming WarGames matches at Survivor Series.

WWE Raw Results (11/14)

  • Bobby Lashley def. Mustafa Ali
  • Mia Yim def. Tamina Snuka
  • Chad Gable def. Matt Riddle
  • Dominik Mysterio def. Shelton Benjamin
  • IYO SKY def. Dana Brooke
  • Dolph Ziggler def. Austin Theory via DQ
  • Seth Rollins def. Finn Balor to retain the United States Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show

Bobby Lashley Confronted Seth Rollins

United States Champion Seth Rollins made his way to the ring to begin tonight’s show. Rollins cut a promo to begin the show and said something seems a little bit different about the title. Seth boasted that he’s made the title feel different before Bobby Lashley interrupted.

Lashley made his way down to the ring and Seth poked fun at him for losing to Brock Lesnar at Crown Jewel. Mustafa Ali then made his way to the ring as a referee pleaded with him not to for some reason as two other superstars just walked to the ring alone. Bobby threw Ali out of the ring as Seth retreated. The All Mighty challenged Mustafa to a singles match as RAW went to a break.

Bobby Lashley Dominated

Bobby Lashley battled Mustafa Ali in the first match of the night. Lashley beat the hell out of Ali and launched him into the ring post. Ali beat the count to get back into the ring but The All Mighty hit him with a Chokeslam. Bobby followed it up with a Spear for the pinfall victory.

AJ Styles Challenges Finn Balor, Mia Yim Picked Up A Win

Cathy Kelley interviewed The OC backstage. AJ challenged Finn Balor to a singles match at Survivor Series: WarGames.

Mia Yim battled Tamina Snuka tonight on RAW in her return match. The Judgment Day’s Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio watched the match from the entrance ramp. Tamina hit a Body Slam as Rhea laughed. Tamina went for a Splash but Mia dodged it. Mia battled back and hit her finisher for the pinfall victory.

Damage CTRL approached Mia Yim backstage and tried to recruit her to the group for a WarGames match. Mia declined and Damage CTRL retreated when The OC showed up.

Chad Gable Stole A Win

Matt Riddle and Elias were supposed to face Alpha Academy but it was changed to a singles match. Riddle said Elias was off booking musical gigs for the duo in a backstage interview. Matt battled Chad Gable in a singles match with Otis ringside. Gable hit a chop to start off the match and followed it up with a Side Slam for a near fall.

Gable connected with a Dragon Screw but Riddle battled back with a flurry of strikes. Otis distracted Riddle and Gable hit a ridiculous release German Suplex as RAW went to a break.

When Raw returned, Riddle connected with a Brainbuster and both superstars fell to the canvas. Gable applied an Ankle Lock in the middle of the ring but Matt was able to escape. Matt applied a Triangle submission but Gable countered into a Cliffhanger DDT for a near fall. Riddle connected with the draping DDT and geared up for an RKO. Otis distracted him and Gable capitalized with a roll-up. Otis put Gable’s boots on the ropes for leverage but the referee didn’t see it.

Akira Tozawa Beat Baron Corbin & JBL in Poker

JBL and Baron Corbin played poker backstage and drank some whiskey. Akira Tozawa revealed that he never played poker and sat down. Corbin and JBL laughed as the camera cut away.An hour later, Akira Tozawa had won all of Corbin and JBL’s money.

The Miz will Battle Dexter Lumis in Two Weeks

Byron Saxton interviewed The Miz tonight on a special edition of Miz TV. Bryon asked The Miz if he wants to explain why he paid Dexter Lumis. Miz asked for complete silence as the crowd chanted “what?!”. The Miz put on a pair of glasses and claimed that he was putting on a performance and spun the truth to the Hollywood executive.

Miz claimed that he was a devoted father, a loving husband, and depressed about everything that has happened. Johnny Gargano interrupted and said that Miz always takes the easy way out. The Miz wondered why he would ever take the hard way. Johnny poked fun at Miz’s sweater and called him Mr. Rodgers.

Gargano stated that he talked to WWE officials and announced that this will come to an end in two weeks. If Dexter Lumis defeats The Miz in two weeks, Miz will pay Lumis everything he owes and Dexter will finally get a WWE contract. Lumis was revealed to be the cameraman and Miz retreated.

Domink Mysterio def. Shelton Benjamin

Shelton Benjamin squared off against Dominik Mysterio tonight. Rhea Ripley and Damian Priest were ringside for the match. Priest and Rhea distracted Shelton and Dominik capitalized with a few strikes. Shelton took control and Dominik retreated out of the ring. Benjamin once again got distracted and Dominik rolled him up for a near fall.

Benjamin applied an Ankle Lock but Damian dragged him to the ropes as the referee was distracted. Shelton continuously kept taking his eyes off Dominik and it eventually caught up to him. Dominik connected with a Frog Splash for the pinfall victory.

Austin Theory Challenged Dolph Ziggler

Austin Theory was interviewed backstage by Cathy Kelley. Theory said people don’t understand the pressure that he is under and the whole world looks at him and wants him to fail. Theory claimed that he didn’t fail last Monday, and he feels more alive than he ever has.

Theory stated that the MITB contract was an anchor around him. Austin added that Roman Reigns is unstoppable and the scenario for him to cash in didn’t exist. Theory noted that Bobby Lashley cost him his cash in and he would have had the greatest cash in ever.

Dolph Ziggler interrupted and told Theory that his ego was to big to listen to him a couple of months. Theory stated that he is the “now” and challenged Ziggler to a match tonight.

IYO SKY def. Dana Brooke, Mia Yim & Rhea Ripley Picked a Team for WarGames

IYO SKY battled Dana Brooke tonight on RAW. Dana got in some offense early but IYO quickly battled back. Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Nikki Cross were ringside for the match. IYO hit a German Suplex and Double knees in the corner of the ring. SKY followed it up with a Moonsault for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Mia Yim said that WarGames is an event where everyone picks a side. Mia Yim joined Bianca, Asuka, and Alexa Bliss’ team for the WarGames match at Survivor Series.

Later on RAW, it was announced that Rhea Ripley will join Damage CTRL for the WarGames match.

Austin Theory Has Lost It

Austin Theory battled Dolph Ziggler in a singles match tonight. Theory came to the ring without his cell phone and dominated the match early. After RAW returned from a break, Theory went for A-Town Down but Ziggler countered into a Sleeper Hold.

Theory escaped and Ziggler caught him with a Fameasser in the middle of the ring for a two count. Austin launched Dolph into the ring post a couple of times but Dolph battled back. Ziggler launched Austin into the ring post and followed it up with a Zig Zag but Theory kicked out at two.

Dolph set up for a Superkick but Austin countered with a forearm to the face. Theory followed it up with A-Town Down but didn’t go for the cover. Austin hit another A-Town Down and dragged Dolph out of the ring. Theory bounced Ziggler’s head off the announce table several times and threw him over the barricade. Theory threw some chairs on top of Ziggler and continued to punch him until security broke it up. Dolph Ziggler technically won the match via DQ.

Baron Corbin def. Akira Tozawa

Baron Corbin battled Akira Tozawa tonight after losing to him in poker. Tozawa controlled the action early and knocked Corbin out of the ring. Akira went for another dive but Corbin caught him and sent him into the barricade.

Back in the ring, Tozawa hit a Hurricanrana and then a running knee strike to the face. Tozawa climbed the top rope and hit a flying shoulder tackle. He went back to the top rope but Corbin caught him this time. Corbin hit the End of Days for the pinfall victory.

Seth Rollins Retained, Austin Theory Attacked

Seth Rollins defended the United States Championship against Finn Balor in the main event of this week’s episode of Raw. Rollins applied an armbar to start of the match but Balor countered into a Headlock in the middle of the ring.

When RAW returned from a break, Finn slammed Seth’s shoulder into the announce table and controlled the action for the next couple of minutes in the ring. Seth battled back and sent Finn out of the ring. Rollins connected with a Suicide Dive and rolled Balor in the ring.

Rollins hit a springboard knee to the face and went for the cover but Finn kicked out at two. Seth hit a Superkick and went for a Frog Splash but Balor got his knees up as RAW went to the final commercial break of the night.

When RAW returned, Seth was in control and climbed to the top turnbuckle. Balor avoided the Phoenix Splash and connected with a Dropkick. Finn climbed to the top rope but Rollins tripped him up. Rollins brought Balor to the mat with a Superplex and went for Falcon Arrow but Finn countered into 1916 for a near fall.

The OC and Mia Yim then battled with the Judgment Day through the crowd. Damian launched Karl Anderson over the announce table. Balor climbed to the top turnbuckle but AJ Styles tripped him up as the referee was distracted. Seth capitalized with the Stomp for the pinfall victory. Seth Rollins is still the United States Champion.

After the match, Austin Theory attacked Rollins and hit him with the A-Town Down. Theory launched Seth into the barricade several times before rolling him back into the ring. Austin delivered another A-Town Down and stood tall in the ring as the crowd booed to close the show.

Drew McIntyre Praised for Being a Workhorse in WWE

Andrew Ravens
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Drew McIntyre has been pushed as a top star in WWE for the last few years because of his passion for the business and putting in the work. Throughout his career with the company, he has won various titles. 

McIntyre’s hectic schedule has also earned him props from his co-workers as well.  The former WWE Champion beat Karrion Kross in a singles match at the Crown Jewel event and did so after a busy schedule and working with an illness. 

Mcintyre had to overcome outside interference by Scarlett in the bout to be victorious. 

Drew McIntyre’s Praise

Drew McIntyre

According to PW Insider, there are a few people in WWE praising McIntyre for his commitment to the company as he went from The United States to Germany and Switzerland for house shows, then went to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel before traveling to India to film what was described as a “movie role” the company set up with Sony, then flew right back to the United States to work the SmackDown show and this past weekend’s live events. 

McIntyre has aligned with The Brawling Brutes and will likely face The Bloodline at the WWE Survivor Series on November 26th.

WWE Has Offered Steve Austin Another Match

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Hall of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin continues to fuel speculation about his in-ring future with some butt-kicking workout videos.

Austin made his return to active competition earlier this year at WrestleMania 38. In a bouht that nobody thought would happen, Austin defeated Kevin Owens in a No Holds Barred match. It was his first time in the ring since WrestleMania 19, almost 20 years earlier.

With WrestleMania season right around the corner, the Texas Rattlesnake has posted a new video of himself opening up a can of ‘whoop ass’ in the gym. More specifically, in his RV.

On Monday, Austin showed off what it takes to look like Stone Cold at 57 years of age. This workout includes air squats, dumbbell curls, push-ups and kettlebell swings.

Steve Austin Wrestling Again?

WWE insider Wrestlevotes stated in an interview that Austin was so pleased with his performance at WrestleMania earlier this year, he wouldn’t rule out the possibility of another special attraction match. On Monday, Fightful reported that WWE has reached out to Steve Austin about wrestling again since Triple H took over for Vince McMahon over the summer.

WWE always goes all-out for WrestleMania, but the company is looking to pull out all the stops when the biggest wrestling show of the year heads to Los Angeles, California. There have been reports that WWE is looking for extra celebrity involvement at the event, which makes sense considering the link to Hollywood. We’ve also heard The Rock and John Cena discussed for high-profile appearances.

Wrestling fans have been conditioned to believe, ‘never say never.’ Austin wrestling again is still a long shot. Then again, nobody (including Kevin Owens) thought he’d get back in the ring after nearly 20 years away. Stranger things have happened, so we’re staying cautiously optimistic.

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