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The Miz Claims He is Working Through an Injury

Thomas Lowson
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The Miz didn’t compete on this week’s Monday Night Raw as previously advertised, but there is a very good reason for that.

On this week’s Raw, the plan was for Miz to face Dexter Lumis, who would have earned a WWE contract had he defeated the A-Lister.

Had Miz defeated the former NXT Superstar, Lumis would have been banned from future appearances.

Instead, Miz attacked Lumis before the match began, and the bout never took place.

Working Hurt

WWE did not give an explanation for why the match did not take place, but it is reportedly due to an injury.

Speaking on the Ekeler’s Edge podcast, Miz told co-hosts Matt Harmon and Los Angeles Chargers Running Back Austin Ekeler about his condition (via POST Wrestling.)

“I have a bursa sac that I burst that just keeps blowing up. I don’t know if you’ve ever blown that. It takes so long and then it’ll go away and then I don’t know if you can see it. Literally, it just keeps coming back. Fluid comes in, it goes away, comes in, goes away.”

A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts like a cushion between tendons and bones to prevent grinding.

The Miz added that he is also dealing with a hurt shoulder, saying that it was recently “messed up.”

Miz on SmackDown

While The Miz is a Monday Night Raw Superstar, he will be appearing for this week’s SmackDown.

In the interview, the WWE Grand Slam Champion explained that he’ll be competing in a dark match, but no opponent was named.

This Friday’s SmackDown will take place at the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio.

Ciampa Credits Miz With Helping Him Transition to the Main Roster

MJF Responds to Praise From WWE Legend by Suggesting he Jump off a Bridge

Robert Lentini
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MJF is one of the biggest stars of All Elite Wrestling and wrestling legends are starting to take notice.

On this week’s special Tuesday night edition of AEW Dynamite, Maxwell confronted William Regal of the Blackpool Combat Club. MJF brought up an email Regal sent him in the past that he thought was an attempt to crush his dreams. Regal responded by claiming MJF has had it easy if he’s hung up on an email from seven years ago.

William also referred to MJF as “sunshine” multiple times in the segment. The 54-year-old’s words must have left an impact on MJF as he made a proclamation to close the show. After Hangman Page suffered a concussion in the title match against Jon Moxley, the AEW World Champion called MJF out.

Jon wanted to fight but MJF announced that he will be cashing in his chip for a title match at AEW Full Gear. Maxwell added “for the first time in my miserable life, I’m going to earn it” before whipping the microphone to the floor.

https://twitter.com/TranquiloSZN/status/1582552149950504963?s=20&t=mzY_q6KTSd3M8eoOVcjRyQ

MJF Responds to Praise from Mick Foley

WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley took to Twitter after the incredible segment between William Regal and MJF on this week’s Dynamite. Mick praised MJF for his mic skills and added that he’s believable.

MJF HAS SOME SERIOUS SKILLS! While I might not believe every word @The_MJF says, I believe that HE believes every word he says – and that’s IMPORTANT!

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1582871797091139585?s=20&t=4nK-D5eFN9PRASZqoizObQ

MJF responded to the WWE legend and used his “right here” catchphrase. Maxwell joked that Foley should go take a “Nestea plunge off a bridge”.

Everything I say is true, especially here……Right here. On twitter. Now go take a Nestea plunge off a bridge, Mickey.

Jim Ross Comments on Ace Steel Being Released by AEW: “I Thought he was a Good Hand”

Robert Lentini
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Wrestling legend and AEW commentator Jim Ross has shared his thoughts on Ace Steel being released from All Elite Wrestling.

Ace Steel had a hell of a run leading up until All Out but the brawl during the media scrum came back to bite him. He appeared on the Dynamite before the PPV to hype up CM Punk and convince him to challenge for the title once again.

CM Punk had dropped the AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley the week prior on Dynamite. Ace’s words of wisdom inspired Punk to accept the challenge and he fired up his hometown crowd in the NOW Arena.

Jim Ross on Ace Steel Being Released by All Elite Wrestling

Jim Ross spoke about Ace Steel being let go by AEW on a recent episode of his Grillin JR podcast.The 70-year-old complimented Ace as a producer and referred to him as a “solid hand”. Ross added that he didn’t work with him directly and called the situation “regrettable”.

“He’s a smart guy. He has a lot of product knowledge. Solid hand. I thought he did a nice job. I didn’t work with him directly a lot. I have seen him at TV and he was always friendly and approachable.

I’m sorry to hear that because I thought he was a good hand and did a nice job there. Things have a way of working out, you never say never, but I always thought he did a nice job for us. He was very loyal to CM Punk, nothing wrong with that, they were buddies. I’m assuming CM Punk is the guy that got Ace Steel his job.

I don’t know where all of that is going. I hate to see anybody lose a job, lose a paycheck. While he was there, he seemed to be a viable asset, but again, I didn’t work with him directly. I didn’t have any issues, pro or con, with him. The bottom line is, another guy lost his job. That’s what’s regrettable.”

JR wished Ace well and believes that he will find another job in wrestling.

He’s got skills. I would think, if given a fair shake within the landscape of wrestling in general, he’ll find some work. Smart guy. I hope it works out well. I regret that anybody, anywhere in wrestling, loses their job.

H/T: WrestleTalk

Joe Rogan on Ric Flair’s Figure Four Leg Lock: “It Doesn’t Work”

Robert Lentini
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Ric Flair wrestled his final match at the “Ric Flair’s Last Match” event during SummerSlam weekend. The match took place at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium and was presented by Jim Crocket Promotions and Conrad Thompson.

He teamed up with his son-in-law, AEW star Andrade El Idolo, to beat wrestling legend Jeff Jarrett and AEW star Jay Lethal in a tag team match.

Flair has won countless matches throughout his career with the Figure Four submission hold, a move created by Buddy Rogers and has been used by many wrestlers throughout the years. Flair recently recounted his last match on his “To Be The Man” podcast.

Joe Rogan on Ric Flair’s Figure Four

Popular podcaster and standup comedian Joe Rogan recently discussed Ric Flair on a recent episode of his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan is also a commentator for MMA and broke down the Figure Four lock and referred to the legendary move as “dumb”. Rogan noted that the technique of the move doesn’t make sense when applied to real-life fighting.

A bunch of [pro] wrestlers got mad at me… I was trying to explain how dumb a figure-four leg lock was because I was like he was literally giving up an inside heel hook.

Inside heel hook is one of the most devastating submission techniques because once someone gets it the time you have to tap is so small before your knee gets ripped apart and so, a Figure-four leg lock you’ll never see in a jiu-jitsu competition.

It doesn’t work. It’s funny in that regard, you know, you are doing this thing but this thing in the real world is the worst thing you do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CquuH5Waln8

H/T: LowKickMMA

Sami Zayn Comments on Tension with Jey Uso in The Bloodline: “It’s Getting Kinda Weird”

Robert Lentini
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The storyline of Sami Zayn becoming a member of The Bloodline has captivated the WWE Universe.

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns recently anointed Sami Zayn as the official Honorary Uce of The Bloodline and presented him with a new shirt. Sami was overcome with joy and celebrated with every member of The Bloodline besides Jey Uso.

Jey Uso is no fan of the Honorary Uce but has been instructed by The Tribal Chief to make things work. Time will tell if the tensions rise to a boiling point.

Sami Zayn Comments on Issues with Jey Uso

Sami Zayn and The Enforcer of The Bloodline Solo Sikoa appeared on WWE’s The Bump today. The Honorary Uce admitted that things are starting to get a little weird with Jey Uso. Zayn added that he has known The Usos for a decade and has always gotten along with them prior to him being named an Honorary Uce.

It’s getting kinda weird with Jey, because we used to get along great. I’ve known them [The Usos] for 10 years; we’ve always got along like peas in a pod. But this time around things are a little different, he [Jey] is a little different…. In the last 9 or 10 years, whatever it is, I’ve never known him to be like this, so snappy and so angry.

The 38-year-old added that many fans don’t realize that they have been working well together as of late. Sami noted that when they are typically on the same page when they are ringside for each others’ matches.

There is one thing though, that people fail to acknowledge with Jey. If you watch during the matches; when I’m out for his matches and he’s out during mine, we are kinda on the same page more often than not. Because when it comes to actually taking care of The Bloodline business, that’s what kinda brings us together.

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

Becky Lynch Says NXT Women are the ‘future’

Samantha Schipman
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While speaking at NYC Advertising Week about using social media to build WWE Superstar brands, Becky Lynch also spoke a little about about women’s wrestling.

Fans have seen Lynch as both a babyface and a heel throughout her career. She admits that playing a heel is more fun. “I think human nature is we just generally don’t want to like people and certainly now, certainly that’s Twitter nature. So you have so much freedom that you can do anything, you can have fun. If people don’t like you, ‘well, I’m doing my job well. If people like you, well, you’re so entertaining, how can people not like you?’ It’s a lot easier, it’s a lot more fun in that aspect.”

Becky Lynch being a heel helps the women’s division more

Becky Lynch Asuka
Photo: WWE.com

“Being a babyface, I tend to naturally fall into. I think, honestly, I’m not the greatest athlete in the world and I think my story of perseverance has registered with a lot of people. Fans can get behind that underdog who constantly has to overcome.”

“But then when it comes to business and wrestling as a whole, especially women’s wrestling, I feel like I can be of help by being a heel, right? Because when you’re a babyface, it’s all about you. It’s about how good you look. It’s how do we make the audience like you the most? And when you’re a heel, it’s all about how do you make the babyface look? How can you get people invested and want to see this guy win? I feel like I’ve gotten enough equity with the audience that I’m able to help a babyface. And then as a whole, that just helps women’s wrestling. When people get more equity and get more exposure and I think that drives the business forward.

Lynch on women’s wrestling in WWE

Becky Lynch Bianca Belair Bayley Iyo Sky Dakota Kai
(via WWE)

Lynch talks about headlining WrestleMania being a big career highlight. “I think anytime that I’ve gone out there as maybe the underdog or my match has gone out there as an underdog and we’ve stolen the show, that feels like a career highlight. One of my most recent ones was at WrestleMania against Bianca Belair. I didn’t get the win, but we stole the show, we stole that weekend and that felt like an accomplishment. There’s been so many and I’ve been so lucky and privileged that I’ve been in a time with women and people that are so progressive in terms of changing the way women are viewed in the business, which has been so predominantly male for so many years.”

“And being one of the first people in the women’s Royal Rumble and having the first women’s ladder match. There’s just been a series of firsts and I think one is not better than the other. It’s been a whole story of how do we present the way women are perceived in this business and it’s awesome that I’ve been able to be a strong part of it.”

When discussing the future of women’s wrestling in WWE, Lynch points to the up-and-comers of NXT. “I look at NXT and–this is no discourse towards the men–but the women, I go ‘oh, yep. That’s the future.’ That’s where the engaging characters are. There’s incredible athleticism, that’s athleticism that never in a million years I would be capable of. I think you can see the interest in what the women are doing down there and so I think it’s the future.”

“And I look at our women’s roster now and I go between me (laughing), you’ve got Bianca Belair. You’ve got Rhea Ripley, who’s just incredible and she’s so young. And you’ve got Liv Morgan and you have all these incredible women just getting started. It’s awesome. I’m very excited about it.”

Jim Cornette on Maximum Male Models in WWE: “The Worst Idea Anybody Has Ever Had”

Robert Lentini
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LA Knight debuted on the main roster as Max Dupri, manager of Maximum Male Models.

The character and the group didn’t get over with fans and now Max Dupri is no more. Following Vince McMahon’s resignation from the company, several released stars have returned to the company and some had their names changed.

LA Knight has exited Maximum Male Models and now has his sights set on becoming a star on WWE SmackDown. He defeated Mansoor of MMM this past Friday night and warned the locker room in a promo after the match.

Jim Cornette on LA Knight’s Match and Promo on SmackDown

Wrestling legend Jim Cornette shared his thoughts on LA Knight’s match and promo this past Friday on a recent edition of the Jim Cornette Experience. Cornette said that Mace and Mansoor have to be embarrassed at this point to be a part of Maximum Male Models.

The thing about LA Knight is, I like the fact that they realize they’ve committed a crime against nature. Changing his name to Max Dupri, the whole male model thing, Mace and Mansoor, and by the way those guys have to be so embarrassed. They’re going out on TV looking like that and doing that s***.

Jim commented on LA Knight’s promo after his victory over Mansoor and said he expects WWE to never mention his involvement with MMM ever again.

He cuts the promo as LA Knight and he did a new catchphrase and blah blah blah. I expect they’ll just never mention this again. But you know me, I’ve got the OCD.

And I would have had to have given LA Knight some reason to impart to the people why he did this. To obviously put it to bed, get over it, it was the worst idea anybody has ever had. But what was the reason he went along with it for three weeks?

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit the Jim Cornette Experience and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Becky Lynch Says Her 10-year-old Self Helps with Branding Choices

Samantha Schipman
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During NYC Advertising Week, WWE Superstar Becky Lynch joined WWE Digital Vice President, Steve Braband on a panel to discuss how WWE Superstars create and build their personal brands.

When asked how much she pays attention to how fans are engaging, Lynch replied, “I think there’s two different–in a way, there’s two different audiences– the online audience isn’t necessarily the audience that’s coming to the shows with their family. So, the things that those two audiences are into are very different. And I think you have to be in tune with both and you have to keep your ears open, your eyes open to what’s working and what isn’t.”

“But at the same time, I think of this as art. I think of this as my art, my craft that I put my heart and soul into. I think you have to be aware and very diligent about not consuming too many opinions because once you’re listening to everybody, you’re not listening to yourself. It’s hard to forget what you’ve seen and what you’ve heard, especially if it’s negative. So I think you have to be very mindful of the feedback you’re getting.”

Balancing the character and real life on social media

Becky Lynch
(via WWE)

“Big Time Becks” posts a lot about both her professional and personal life on social media. She answered how she keeps a balance with, “I don’t know. I don’t know.” (laughing) “I think it’s constantly a work in progress. I try to keep my social media platforms very much in line with what I’m doing on TV. So that everything feels like it’s one story being told. The same character that you see on TV is the same character that you see tweeting, the same character that’s posting on social media. Sometimes, we bring in a little bit of reality, just like we do in WWE.”

“But for me, I think it’s important that I keep a little bit of me for myself and my family. I don’t like posting pictures of my baby girl too much because I take her everywhere and I want her to be free of any of that kind of stuff.”

10-year-old Becky Lynch helps her branding choices

Becky Lynch ss

Lynch had a simple response on deciding what products to brand: “would ten-year-old me think its cool? Not always, but when you’re on the cover of a cereal box. It’s pretty frickin’ cool. I think in the beginning of my career, any opportunity that came my way was ‘yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.’ (pointing) Then as you grow and you can get a little bit pickier, you think ‘how do I want my brand to appear? How do I want this to effect the business in general? Or how will this progress the business? How does this progress me, my family, is it good for everyone involved?’ That’s how I look at things or how will ten-year-old me feel about it?”

Being on Billions since she was a fan of the show was a highlight for Lynch. The SportsCenter commercial is another favorite branding opportunity.

When Lynch wasn’t getting much TV time, social media was a “live mic in my hand 24/7 so that I could tell my story, so that I could get my message across. The currency of Twitter is the zinger; how do you zing people? And people get interested in that and they get engaged in that. And we’re in the conflict business–sure pre-determined conflict business, but it’s a conflict business– so when people see that on Twitter, they’re like, ‘oh, that’s real. That’s the real thing there.’ So, it’s always helped to drive a story.”

She also says that people get upset about the conflicts on Twitter, but that helps drive the story.

3 Reasons to Love WWE’s New Premium Live Events Strategy

Robert Lentini
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WWE has canceled its Day 1 Premium Live Event and is expected to make more changes in 2023. It was reported over the weekend by Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer that WWE may be moving away from gimmick PLEs next year to focus on international events.

Here are three reasons WWE switching up its strategy for Premium Live Events is a good thing:

The Potential For New Fans

WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H has already laid out his vision for NXT in multiple interviews. The Game noted that he wants NXT to expand into an “almost World Cup scenario“, with brands like NXT Europe, NXT Australia, NXT South America, etc. NXT UK was shut down this year but the company will be launching NXT Europe in 2023.

It makes sense for his vision for WWE’s developmental system to also be implemented in some fashion on the main roster. The company held its first stadium show in the UK in over thirty years in September with WWE Clash at the Castle. The Premium Live Event attracted over 60,000 fans to Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. There are markets all around the world that will be overjoyed to see WWE live.

The long-term goal in that is to be in markets all around the world. With products that eventually can be competing against each other, world cup type scenarios, that are feeding into RAW, and to SmackDown, and to WrestleMania.

The Demand Is There

The shows in Saudi Arabia and Clash at the Castle have proven that WWE fans will come to the arena all around the world. Crown Jewel will air on November 5th from Mrsool Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Mrsool Park has a seating capacity of 25,000. For comparison, Survivor Series will be held at the TD Garden with less than 20,000 tickets available for purchase. Survivor Series is one of the most recognizable Premium Live Events to fans but Crown Jewel will likely earn more money for the company.

WWE held the Elimination Chamber PLE at the Jeddah Super Dome earlier this year with 33,328 in attendance. The company has a global audience, with transcendent stars like Roman Reigns that will instantly draw fans. The inclusion of celebrities like Logan Paul only brings more fans to the product as young people from all over the planet follow the 27-year-old.

Another market that WWE will likely be focusing on is India. The hashtag #SearchForMerch recently went viral as there is no option to purchase official WWE merchandise in India at the moment. Triple H responded to the hashtag and told fans “we hear you”. It feels like it is a good time to try and expand the audience when there are viral campaigns to be able to buy your merchandise.

Reserve The Gimmick Matches

Extreme Rules aired this past weekend and the card featured six gimmick matches. There was an Extreme Rules match, a Ladder match, a Strap match, an I Quit match, a Donnybrook, and a Fight Pit match.

While many fans enjoyed the show, there were definitely some that found it to be overkill. In other words, there’s an issue when the gimmick matches don’t feel special. Hell in a Cell used to be reserved to feuds that have become some personal, the two wrestlers needed to be locked inside a steel structure to sort out their differences.

Now, the feuds leading up to the Hell in a Cell PLE rarely reach the level of animus required for the stipulation to mean anything. A HIAC match should be special, and it instantly isn’t when there are multiple of them on the same show. Plus, the more gimmick matches you have, the quicker the audience will get tired of seeing it.

Cody Rhodes battled Seth Rollins at WWE Hell in a Cell earlier this year in June. It was the third time the two had faced each other in 2022 and The American Nightmare emerged victorious in all three. Rhodes went into the match with a torn pectoral and showed off the gruesome injury before the bell.

The Hell in a Cell stipulation added to the match tremendously given the brutal nature of Cody’s injury. It was also fitting that they battled inside the steel structure because their rivalry had been going on for months. The potential change in strategy in regard to Premium Live Events allows WWE to expand its audience while reserving gimmick matches for the rivalries that truly deserve them.

Hangman Page: “I’m Doing Alright and Feeling Good”

Michael Reichlin
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Hangman Adam Page provided a reassuring update on his health after an injury scare during the main event of Tuesday’s AEW Dynamite. During a world title match against Jon Moxley, Paige was legitimately injured and had to be stretchered out of the arena after the match was called off.

image 7

AEW issued a statement on Page’s condition late Tuesday night, noting that he was taken to to the trauma center of a Cincinnati hospital after Dynamite and diagnosed with a concussion. He was discharged later in the evening and will remain in AEW’s concussion protocol.

On Wednesday, Page thanked everybody for supporting him through this tough time. He’s “feeling good today” and thanked AEW personnel for taking care of him at Dynamite.

https://twitter.com/theadampage/status/1582838865064525824?s=46&t=XR-VvxV3A0e7ECkA8UEERg

AEW Dynamite Viewership Tops NXT in Tuesday Night Clash

Michael Reichlin
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All Elite Wrestling’s flagship TV show aired on Tuesday this week due to a preemption for the Major League Baseball playoffs. The special Tuesday Night Dynamite on TBS went head-to-head with NXT on the USA Network, a throwback of sorts to the Wednesday Night Wars that ran from October 2, 2019, to April 7, 2021.

Both companies put their best foot forward in their latest battle, with AEW presenting Jon Moxley’s world title defense against Hangman Adam Page and WWE sending several main roster stars to NXT including Kevin Owens, Austin Theory, Shinsuke Nakamura, Rhea Ripley and more.

The October 18, 2022 edition of AEW Dynamite won the night with viewership, averaging 752,000 viewers. It was the #8 ranked show on cable for the night with a 0.26 rating (P18-49).

NXT drew 676,000 fans and ranked #12 on cable with a 0.18 rating.

Dynamite returns to its usual time slot next Wednesday. NXT has a special event this Saturday night, Halloween Havoc, airing on Peacock.

Catch up on the Top 10 Moments from this week’s NXT:

H/T Brandon Thurston, Wrestlenomics

Karl Anderson Addresses Being Booked on The Same Date by WWE and NJPW

Andrew Ravens
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Karl Anderson has commented on the situation where NJPW and WWE double-booked him on the same date. 

The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows) made their returns to WWE to align with AJ Styles earlier this month despite working for NJPW as they weren’t under contract with the promotion. Instead, they had been working for NJPW on a handshake deal only. Anderson still has New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s NEVER Openweight Title. 

The belief is that The Good Brothers will work their committed dates with NJPW through next January at Wrestle Kingdom 17. Anderson won the belt from Tama Tonga at Dominion.

His next title defense is scheduled for November 5th at NJPW Battle Autumn in Osaka against Hikuleo. WWE confirmed on Monday Night Raw that Gallows and Anderson are scheduled to team with Styles at WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia against The Judgment Day. 

Karl Anderson’s Address

The OC
The OC: AJ Styles, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson

Anderson shared a video on social media where he noted that he’ll defend the belt on his own time and will not be at Battle Autumn. Gallows added that all Karl’s bookings must go through him, and since New Japan did not clear it, Anderson will not be there.

WWE booked The Good Brothers on Tuesday’s NXT episode, where they tagged with Cameron Grimes and scored a win over The Schism (Joe Gacy, Jagger Reid & Rip Fowler).

As of this writing, NJPW is still advertising the NEVER Title match on its website for the upcoming November 5th event. 

Bret Hart Calls for Goldberg to be Removed From WWE Hall of Fame

Andrew Ravens
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Bret Hart’s dislike of Bill Goldberg has been well-documented as his animosity stretches back to 1999’s Starrcade event where Goldberg nailed Hart with a thrust kick during their WCW World Heavyweight Championship match. 

This was where Hart suffered a career-ending concussion. Hart has discussed his frustration with Goldberg ever since and has taken shots at him over the years. 

Bret Hart on Goldberg

Bret Hart Vs Goldberg Cropped

While participating in a K&S Wrestlefest signing, Hart noted that he thinks Goldberg should be removed from the WWE Hall Of Fame.  

“I always thought that if Goldberg got into the Hall of Fame then Horowitz should’ve gone into the Hall of Fame. Horowitz can actually wrestle. Goldberg never could. I think he got in there for hurting everybody he worked with…They should [on being told that WWE should put Horowitz into the Hall of Fame]. They should take Goldberg out.”

Hart has previously stated that he wishes Goldberg had never kicked him in the head and doesn’t know how WWE could induct Goldberg into the Hall Of Fame for hurting as many wrestlers as he did. 

Hart also lost money due to the concussion as he had signed a $3 million-a-year contract with WCW on top of the two years he had left on his original contract. 

Goldberg has repeatedly apologized for what happened, but it seems to fall on deaf ears. While on The Michael Kay Show back in July, Goldberg stated that he had apologized over and over, but at some point, he questioned what else he could say for Hart to forgive him.  

H/T to Sportskeeda for the transcription

Candice LeRae Wants Mixed Tag Match with WWE Hall of Fame Couple

Thomas Lowson
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Candice LeRae has only been back in WWE for a matter of weeks, but the former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion has big plans.

LeRae, the wife of fellow-WWE returnee Johnny Gargano, debuted on Raw on the September 26, episode with a victory over Nikki A.S.H.

Candice had been quietly released in May this year after spending time away due to her pregnancy.

LeRae’s return to WWE took fans by surprise, but fans should get used to seeing the ‘Poison Pixie.’

WrestleMania

Like countless wrestlers, LeRae hopes to one-day see herself at WWE’s biggest annual event: WrestleMania.

Speaking on the Out of Character podcast, LeRae acknowledged her WrestleMania 35 Women’s Battle Royal appearance but wants more.

“While I have done WrestleMania technically, it was a battle royal. I would love to actually be part of a singles match or something.”

LeRae quickly changed her mind from a singles match to a mixed-tag team match featuring Gargano.

“In a perfect world. I would love for me and Johnny to wrestle a mixed tag match at WrestleMania. That would be super awesome for me. Especially if it’s against Beth [Phoenix] and Edge. Just put that out there in the universe and hope it happens.”

“I would love for me and Johnny to wrestle a mixed tag match at WrestleMania…Especially if it’s against Beth [Phoenix] and Edge.”

Candice LeRae.

Edge and the Glamazon have appeared together over the past year, including at the recent Extreme Rules Premium Live Event.

Settling a Score

In NXT and on WWE’s main roster, LeRae has done plenty, but one thing she hasn’t accomplished is to beat IYO SKY.

In the interview, the Poison Pixie called beating the Damage CTRL member high on her list of priorities.

“[That’s] unfinished business for me. I don’t know how [that hasn’t happened]. I did have a few times during pregnancy watching her wrestle where I was like ‘Man I just cannot beat this girl.’ I’ve just never beaten her.”

LeRae’s one and only reign as NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions was with Indi Hartwell, and was ended by SKY (then Io Shirai) and Zoey Stark in July 2021.

What Triple H Told Candice LeRae About Her Pregnancy

What Triple H Told Candice LeRae About Her Pregnancy

Anutosh Bajpai
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Wrestling is a physical sport and a lot of things can force plans to be changed at the last minute. One such thing that has led to planned angles being altered a number of times is the pregnancy of female stars. Candice LeRae however, did not want WWE officials to be put in an awkward position with her pregnancy. So she decided to tell them about her plans in advance.

The former NXT star recently appeared on Out of Character podcast. Speaking about the birth of her baby, she mentioned that she had a meeting with Triple H before taking time off. LeRae revealed what The Game told her about it:

“So earlier in the year, Johnny and I had sat down with DX of all people and discussed the fact that we wanted to have a baby and trying to kind of figure out when the right time was. Of course, they’re like, very supportive. Obviously, we don’t have to let them know but we wanted to kind of keep them in the loop because I felt like I owed it to everybody.

I didn’t want to be put in a position or them be put in a position where we’re all just kind of like, ‘Oh, whoops, now what do we do?’ They were so [supportive]. Hunter even said to me. He said, ‘There’s never gonna be a right time. So you guys got to do what’s best for you guys. And we’ll work around it,’ Essentially.”

‘Are We Planning Our Future With DX?’: Candice LeRae

The meeting with Triple H and Shawn Michaels was also a funny experience for Candice LeRae. Halfway through it, she realized that she was discussing her future with DX:

“We were sitting in there and we’re waiting for Hunter to come in. That’s all I thought. It was like ‘Okay, Johnny and I are here and like waiting for Hunter to come in.’ Then Shawn Michaels just walked in and sat down at the table with his food. I was like, ‘Oh okay, that’s fine. Shawn too.’

Halfway through the conversation, the child in me, it was all ‘Are we planning our future and our children with DX right now? Does that even make sense in any universe?’ They were very supportive where it was like we were telling our parents ‘Yeah, we want to have a baby.’ They were just supportive and awesome about it.”

You can check out Candice LeRae’s full interview below:

More Originals From SEScoops:

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

Jim Ross Discusses Potential Retirement After AEW Deal

Jon Fuentes
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Longtime professional wrestling commentator Jim Ross has discussed potentially retiring after his current deal with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) goes out.

Ross recently took to his podcast, “Grilling JR,” and discussed the possibility of walking away from professional wrestling at 70-years-old. The WWE Hall Of Famer didn’t confirm that he’ll be retiring, but admitted he is definitely considering it.

“I think my contract with AEW is about another year and change. I’m looking at finishing that out and then taking it from there. So, that means I’m thinking about [retirement].

“I haven’t talked to Tony Khan about this, but when I signed an extension – I think for 18 months or something like that – and it’s still in effect. I’m happy with that arrangement. We’ll take it one week at a time.

“I don’t know if I’m gonna stay, or if he wants me to stay. I think he does, and I know I do. But I also have to be realistic. I’m not a young kid.

“Maybe I’m traveling too much, maybe I don’t need to come to Dynamite, and stay at home an extra day before you get on that next airplane. I like what I’m doing. I really do.”

Jim Ross

Jim Ross has been involved in the professional wrestling world since the mid-70s. He’s best known for his historic 20-year run with WWE where he became known as the “voice of wrestling.”

In 2013, Ross left WWE and would go on to do work with the likes of New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), a few independent shows, a brief return to WWE, and now, under contract with AEW.

More Details On Chris Jericho’s New AEW Deal

Jon Fuentes
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We have some more details to pass along on Chris Jericho and his new deal with All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

As we’ve noted, Jericho recently signed a new deal with AEW that will keep him with the promotion through December of 2025. According to a new report from Wrestling Observer Radio, while the deal was framed as a contract extension, it’s actually a whole new deal.

Meltzer noted that Jericho’s initial deal with AEW kept him with AEW until January of 2024. He’ll continue to be on this deal until the first week of January. His new deal will expire in January of 2026.

Chris Jericho
(AEW)

While Chris Jericho is currently a major part of the in-ring action in AEW right now, the new deal will also see him take on an increased role backstage. He’ll serve as a producer and creative advisor, and will continue his current role of mentoring young talent.

AEW president Tony Khan had the following to say about Jericho remaining on with the promotion.

“Chris has discovered a fountain of youth this year, and he’s having some of the very best matches of his legendary career against some of the top names in wrestling. In expanding his responsibilities, he’ll continue to serve as a valuable leader with our roster.”

  • Chris Jericho’s Best Gimmicks Ranked

No, AEW Did Not Snub Kenny Omega on His Birthday

Joey Galizia
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One month out and fans are still talking about the backstage brawl that occurred in AEW following their ALL OUT 2022 pay-per-view event. The incident, which is still under investigation, involved CM Punk, Kenny Omega, Ace Steel, and the Young Bucks, all who are still suspended from action aside from Steel, who was released by AEW this morning.

Some fans were speculating on Omega’s status with the company as the AEW social media team did not post anything about the Cleaner on his birthday on October 16th. However, AEW did make a birthday post for Fuego Del Sol, who shares a birthday with Omega. He just turned 27. This led to some controversy as some fans started taking unnecessary shots at Del Sol for doing nothing.

Fuego Del Sol Fires Back At The Trolls

Fuego is not the type of talent to just let silliness fly. He took to Twitter and revealed that Omega specifically told the AEW social media team not to post about his birthday, a request he made as early as a year ago. Del Sol’s full tweet reads:

“Only commenting on this because there are still articles and comments that are using me and my birthday to comment on Omega. I love Omega as much as the next fan. He told socials not to post about his birthday last year. Learn how to UNTAG me before you spew your hate and B.S.!”

This isn’t the first time Del Sol has tried to clear the air regarding a misconception about him. He went on Twitter recently and explained that his angle with Malakai Black was something that Black pushed for, and was not forced upon the House of Black faction.

We here at Sescoops would like to wish Del Sol a happy belated birthday.

“One Door Closed. Another Opened” Bobby Lashley on how a Bank Robbery Changed his Life

Thomas Lowson
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Bobby Lashley is known as the All Mighty in WWE for a reason, but he may have never made it in professional wrestling if not for a life-changing ordeal.

Lashley debuted on WWE TV in 2005 and would return to the promotion in 2018 where he remains today.

During his second return, Lashley has held the U.S. and Intercontinental Championships and is a two-time WWE Champion.

The Robbery

Before Lashley made it to WWE, he competed in amateur wrestling, including during his time with the United States Armed Forces.

Lashley was successful enough to be considered a prospect for the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics before a robbery ended those dreams.

Speaking on the Not Sam Wrestling podcast, Lashley recalled how it happened.

“During that time when I was still training getting ready for the Olympics. I was in a bank. Guys came in shooting up, I took a dive down to the ground, split my knee open. That ended my amateur wrestling career.”

The All Mighty added that with his Olympic dreams over, it wasn’t long before WWE gave him a call.

“Gerald Brisco called me up during that time when I’m sitting with the leg brace on. He was like, ‘Hey, I know that you said that you wanted to wait until after the Olympics to talk to us, but we’d like for you to come a little bit sooner.’ [I] didn’t tell him about the leg brace.

“So I trained and rehabbed for a little while and then came on. So it was like one door closed and another door opened.”

In September 2005, Lashley would debut, defeating Simon Dean, who’d he defeat the following month at No Mercy: Lashley’s Pay Per View debut.

Lashley Vs. Lesnar

Lashley is an accomplished amateur wrestler, but he’s not the only one in WWE.

This year, Lashley has feuded with Brock Lesnar, who the former U.S. Champion has been hungry to feud with for years.

At the Royal Rumble 2022 Premium Live Event, Lashley defeated Lesnar to win the WWE Championship, albeit thanks to an assist from Roman Reigns.

Lesnar returned to WWE earlier this month, costing Lashley the United States title, and the pair brawled on this week’s Raw.

Lashley Vs. Lesnar II will take place at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5.

Bobby Lashley Explains When He Plans to Retire

Pro Wrestling Social Media is a Double-Edged Sword

Scott Fishman
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Can you imagine what the world of pro wrestling would be like had social media been around in the 1980s or even the 1990s? In the glory days of the Four Horsemen, Dave Schultz, Roddy Piper, Iron Sheik, the “Monday Night War,” Brian Pillman, DX, ECW…The list goes on and on. 

Today platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have become an important piece of the business for better or worse. A proven double-edged sword in which pro wrestlers and personalities must walk a tightrope. They are in a unique position compared to an actor or athlete. Do they stay in character or not? Many times it’s a hybrid where the lines of reality are muddled, which can help advance a storyline. Then there are the missteps where a single Tweet can make or break someone. 

We’ve seen shoots, work shoots, and instances of being worked into a shoot. Among those who I think manages the waters of social media well is Becky Lynch. She’ll chime in at the right time, knowing what will get people talking. The popular performer has also been known to clap back with receipts like a recent interaction with Vince Russo or shutting down body-shaming attacks on boyfriend Adam Cole. Another good one is Britt Baker, who brings a similar approach. They’ve each grown their popularity, even when they aren’t on TV. 

MJF is known for his outspokenness on AEW shows. It’s this authenticity and confidence that has made him must-watch each week. The same can be seen on social media in which the much talked about star will provide entertainment sparring with the likes of Dionne Warwick. Though he’ll also use the space to draw awareness to some really serious issues.

MJF has called out antisemitism including comments made by Kanye West. Even when tweets are deleted, they live on in cyberspace and headlines. It’s an interesting position to be in when MJF is considered a “heel” on television delivering some pretty harsh and controversial promos.

Social media can be a slippery slope. A back-and-forth between Sammy Guevara and Andrade got heated on Twitter regarding comments Andrade made about Guevara being stiff in the ring to  Más Lucha. A war of words boiled over into reported physicality backstage at Dynamite, which led to Andrade being sent home. 

Unfortunately, social media has also given attention to trolls who like nothing more than to rile someone up. Cyberbullying and body shaming are real problems, and the pro wrestling world is not immune. Hateful things are said just to get a reaction when in actuality it only does harm to your mental health. Imagine getting inundated by these horrible messages on a daily basis.

That doesn’t make you feel good. After all, deep down these figures, we watch in the ring are human beings just like anyone else. There is a reason Jade Cargill took a break from Twitter and Toni Storm just left it altogether. It got so bad for Stardom athlete Hana Kimura, she took her own life. If that doesn’t get you thinking twice about sending a message with the intent of making someone feel bad, I don’t know what will.

Matt Cardona knows how to use social media to help grow his brand. That can be traced all the way back to Cardona’s YouTube show. He has used it as a way to spread the word about everything he has going on and selling. A tool and means to an end. Making money.

Social media can be a powerful way to get a message across and create awareness for a cause. Nobody knows that more than Mick Foley, who has raised thousands of dollars over the years through many fundraisers. Drake Maverick’s emotional reaction to losing his job after being released in 2020 went viral. So much, John Cena took note and WWE couldn’t ignore the groundswell of support. Triple H presented him with a new contract down the line on NXT. 

The pro wrestling community has also mobilized on a number of occasions, coming together to help. When the shocking news broke that Tough Enough alum Sara Lee passed away at age 30, a GoFundMe was set up for her family by friend Bull James. Thanks to wrestling stars and others spreading the word more than $103,000 were generated. A heartwarming response to a sad story. 

Social media isn’t going anywhere. And if you’re a pro wrestler it can be a blessing or curse. The ones who find success are those who maintain a level of authenticity and a genuine voice. They also practice a rule we should all be following. Think before you post.  

Who is your favorite follow? Why? Let me know in the comments or by tweeting me @smFISHMAN. 

Jessie Jones Talks New WOW Season, AJ Mendez

Scott Fishman
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Jessie Jones is here to make wrestling great again. WOW (Women Of Wrestling) to be exact as the promotion enjoys a rebirth with huge syndication clearance across the country and beyond. The proud Bardstown, Kentucky native wasted no time letting her intentions known on the microphone to creator David Mclane. She wants gold around her waist. 

Jones even beat Foxxy Fierce and Ice Cold solo to prove a point that she belongs in the women’s tag team title mix. The veteran took time out from raising hell to talk about this new incarnation of WOW in this SEScoops interview. 

WOW has so much reach with syndication. Talk a little about what it has been like. How would compare the feel, and the atmosphere this time around from what we’ve seen from WOW in the past? 

Jessie Jones: There is a lot of excitement. There is a lot of buzz. Everybody is just ready to make a statement. We’re ready to make everyone feel like, “Wow, these women are entertaining and can wrestle.” 

Of course, new this season is AJ Mendez. What do you think she bring? She brings such a big fanbase. How has it been interacting with her? 

It’s amazing. I totally attribute AJ basically giving the women the platform they have now. She is the person who tweeted to give women a chance. That really got the ball rolling for the women’s revolution. I think of her in the locker room as someone who has done so much and can learn from. She also has this huge fan base where it can be, “AJ supports this. Let’s see what this is about.” I think that her fans are going to be happy. She loves being there. She loves being a part of WOW. I love having people like AJ there who I can learn from, talk to, and ask questions. It’s a privilege having someone like her in the locker room and available to us. 

As a veteran, have you taken the new faces under your wing to help them acclimate to the wild world of pro wrestling?

It is definitely a whole new world. You know I’m kind of selfish. I don’t help too many people unless I see something in them. You might see me help somebody out as the season goes on. I can’t give away too much. I’m more of a sit back and watch and if someone asks me, then I might help them. It depends on how I’m feeling that day. 

You’re known for being outspoken in the ring. Who has helped you along the way in building those mic skills? You feel you believe what you’re saying. 

That’s the key to a promo. You believe what you’re saying. I honestly had the great honor and privilege of being trained and mentored by Tracy Smothers, who is one of the best on the microphone ever. It definitely goes back to the foundation. Tracy Smothers, working with Mickie Knuckles, Brian Knobbs, Ohio Valley Wrestling. I would say my ability. And through college and school, I was doing speech and drama, and forensics. I’m not one who has been shy with a mic in my hand. Having the confidence to do it and knowing where all the trainers at OVW having helped me out. 

You mention OVW. Do you see WOW partnering and building relationships with other wrestling companies like others have?

No, I don’t think WOW is going to partner just because with Ohio Valley Wrestling they have males, and females. What we are really about is empowering and uplifting women. We’re the only all-women wrestling company to have a national, worldwide, footprint. I’m grateful for Ohio Valley Wrestling. I don’t see a partnership coming. I definitely wouldn’t be surprised if OVW’s girls are scouted by WOW. 

Is there anyone from the outside you want to come into WOW? 

Mickie Knuckles. There are a few, but maybe they’re coming in and you don’t know it yet. 

Speaking of which you had that big win with Ice Cold and Foxxy Fierce, demanding being involved in the tag team tournament. We might be seeing a new partner emerge. Can we expect a new partner to appear? 

Definitely. I’m going to pick a partner, force people to be my partner, and talk them into being my partner. I will find someone to stand on the apron. You can expect me to be searching. 

The story was built with you and Selina Majors. There is a bond and history there. Do you expect to see her in the ring for WOW again, either opponent or on your side? 

I don’t know, but it would be amazing if she did. I might be a little upset with her. I like to tag with her, but she bailed on me. It depends on my mood that day. It would be cool to tag with her again and make Southern Pride the tag team champions. But then again I might be in a nasty mood and am like you bailed on me after I traveled to California on a bus. I want to fight you. I don’t know. We’ll see. 

WOW Women Of Wrestling, Saturdays, Syndication 

AEW Has Released Name Involved In All Out Brawl (Report)

Anutosh Bajpai
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It appears that AEW is finally starting to make some decisions after the long investigation into the backstage brawl that took place after All Out last month.

Dave Meltzer on the latest Wrestling Observer Radio confirmed on Wednesday that Ace Steel has officially been released from his contract:

“So he was officially released yesterday, so I guess that is the first bit of news out of that whole situation in weeks. There’s a lot of other stuff going on.”

Ace Steel joined AEW earlier this year and he worked as a producer backstage. He also made an on-screen appearance before All Out where he encouraged CM Punk to answer the open challenge issued by Jon Moxley.

The now former AEW talent was part of the backstage brawl that took place after the All Out media scrum on September 5.

CM Punk first called out AEW EVPs during his post-media scrum. He was confronted by The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega once he reached his locker room.

Steel who was on Punk’s side joined in the physical confrontation and it was reported that he bit Kenny Omega at one point.

AEW suspended everyone involved in the brawl. The company has not made any public comments about the incident and has been criticised for their silence over the matter.

Sasha Banks & Brie Bella Returning to TV – Not for WWE

Thomas Lowson
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Former Champions of WWE Sasha Banks and Brie Bella will soon be back on our screens, though not in a role for WWE.

Neither woman is a stranger to TV, with Nikki debuting on WWE’s main roster in 2008, and having featured on both Total Divas and Total Bellas.

Banks made her WWE debut in 2012 and was called-up in 2015, and is also known for her role as Koska Reeves in Disney+ hit ‘The Mandalorian.’

Facing Off

Neither Banks nor Bella have wrestled for WWE in some time, but the two will be squaring off against each other out of the ring.

Brie revealed on the newest episode of The Bellas Podcast that she and Banks will face off on USA Network’s ‘Barmageddon’ show (via POST Wrestling.)

“I’m actually a contestant on the show [Barmageddon on USA Network] and if anyone knows how to play beer-drinking games — well more than beer-drinking, it’s just bar-drinking games. Brie Mode is definitely the one and I take on Sasha Banks so it’s pretty amazing.”

Barmageddon will see celebrities face off in bar drinking games and will be hosted by Blake Shelton, Carson Daly, and Brie’s sister Nikki Bella.

Banks and WWE

While Brie and Nikki Bella have been retired for years, Sasha Banks is a current WWE Superstar, but hasn’t competed in May.

The Boss continues to serve out her suspension, after walking out of the May 16, 2022, Raw over a creative dispute.

Despite reports that Banks is expected to return to WWE, there have been no sightings of the former Champion at arenas.

Banks was mentioned during Extreme Rules 2022, the first reference to her since the suspension.

Update on Sasha Banks’ In-Ring Future

AEW Issues Statement on Hangman Page Injury & Provides Health Update

Robert Lentini
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Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Adam Page in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.

It was a special Tuesday night edition of Dynamite in Moxley’s hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. Moxley was in control of the match at the Heritage Bank Center and connected with a Clothesline that knocked Hangman Page to the mat.

Hangman seemed to land awkwardly and the match was cut short due to injury. The former AEW World Champion was stretchered out of the arena after the medical staff had to loosen to the bottom rope to get Hangman out of the ring.

Hangman Page Injured, Stretchered Out of Tuesday’s AEW Dynamite

AEW Releases Statement On The Hangman Page Injury

A couple of hours after Dynamite went off the air, All Elite Wrestling released a statement about Hangman Page’s injury. He suffered a concussion and was taken to the trauma center at the hospital. Page was discharged from the hospital but will remain in AEW’s concussion protocol for the time being.

You can read the full statement below:

Hangman Adam Page was taken tonight by medical personnel to a Cincinnati trauma center and diagnosed with a concussion.

He was discharged, but will remain in AEW’s concussion protocol.

AEW and Hangman Page are grateful for the exemplary response and care of staff and local medical personnel, and are appreciative of the love and support of fans everywhere.

AEW & WWE Stars React to Hangman Page Injury on Dynamite

What Happened With Jon Moxley After AEW Dynamite Went Off The Air

Robert Lentini
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Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Adam Page in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.

It was a special Tuesday night edition of the show in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jon was in control of the title match and hit Page with a Clothesline. Hangman appeared to land wrong during the spot and the match was cut short. Hangman was stretchered out of the arena and Moxley was named the winner.

After the match, Jon Moxley called out MJF for a title match tonight. MJF made his way to the ring but announced that he will cash in his chip at AEW Full Gear next month. Maxwell and William Regal had some choice words for each other earlier on the show.

https://twitter.com/TranquiloSZN/status/1582552149950504963?s=20&t=z2Q-v3ScHt9BDyQpj_02Hg

What Happened After Dynamite Went Off The Air?

AEW World Champion Jon Moxley didn’t just have to deal with MJF after his title match, another member of the roster confronted him. Ryan Nemeth, the brother of WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler, confronted him. Ryan and Dolph are from Cleveland, Ohio and mocked Cincinnati as “Cleveland Jr.”.Moxley poked fun at Nemeth for looking like his bortherDolph Ziggler and Claudio Castagnoli got him in the Swing.

Moxley joked about the sound system not working at the arena and put the responsibility on a member of the security team to make sure it is fixed for when they come back. Jonvowed to keep coming back to Cincinnati until they make it the hottest wrestling city. Jon then took a bunch of photos with the fans in attendance at the Heritage Bank Center.

Hangman Page Injured, Stretchered Out of Tuesday’s AEW Dynamite
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