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Becky Lynch Provides Injury Recovery Update

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Becky Lynch is expected to be out of action for several months due to injury. However, her recovery is going well, and she is remaining optimistic. 

She suffered a separated shoulder during her match against Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair at SummerSlam. On the August 1st episode of Raw, she was written off television by being attacked by Bayley, IYO Sky (Io Shirai), and Dakota Kai. 

Becky Lynch Shares Good News

Becky Lynch in a sling

While doing a recent Instagram Live with The Rock, Seth Rollins, and Brian Gewirtz, Lynch talked about her progress while rehabbing the injury. 

“Hopefully, in the next couple of months. Now that I got bad wing, I have a little bit more time to dedicate to it,” Lynch said about writing her book.

“Yeah, I feel like I got a little bit more mobility in it [hershoulder] because when it happened, it was so painful that I was like, ‘oh no, I’m going to be out for a long, long time.’ But now, it’s healing up really quick.”

“I’m feeling strong. I’m feeling good. I’m hoping it won’t be much time at all.”

– Becky Lynch

You can watch the full interaction here;

SEScoops wishes Becky Lynch a speedy recovery from this injury.

If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit with an h/t to SEScoops for the transcription.

Former NXT Champion Open to WWE Return (Report)

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Former WWE NXT star Johnny Gargano has been on the free agent market since last December, but he has yet to join a major promotion nor wrestle a single match, and it has left fans wondering when he will make his big move. 

Cassidy Haynes of BodySlam.net reports with Triple H now in control as Head of Creative in WWE that, Gargano is open to a WWE return. It was noted that Gargano is also interested in talking to Triple H and “seeing how things would be changing.”

Why Gargano Walked Away

Johnny Gargano

Gargano reportedly wasn’t a fan of the schedule, especially now that he’s a father. However, the “overarching factor for him walking away was dissatisfaction with his position/direction with no set plan for how he’d be used.” Haynes’ sources stated that Gargano has also been in talks with AEW.

Gargano most recently appeared as part of a live panel at Starrcast V in Nashville called “What’s NeXT? With Johnny Gargano.”

In interviews, Gargano stated that he still has unfinished business with the WWE, but he also believed that all of his options are open to him. Therefore, he had not yet decided what to do next and had remained a free agent. 

Kevin Owens Eyeing Tag Team Gold In WWE: “Sami Is At The Top Of The List”

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Kevin Owens is ready to hold tag team gold in WWE.

The Prizefighter recently spoke appeared on the TWC Show to discuss the matter, as it is the one title he has not held since joining the promotion back in 2014. In that time he has captured the NXT championship, the United States championship, the Intercontinental championship, and the Universal championship. However, Owens has not held a title in five years.

When talking about winning a tag title he states that his top pick as a parter is his longtime friend/rival, Sami Zayn.

“Of course. I’ve never been a tag team champion. I’d love to be tag team champion anybody. Well, maybe not anybody. There are a couple of guys I could see myself winning the Tag Team Titles with, obviously, Sami is at the top of the list.”

Owens and Zayn have been dominant as a tag team elsewhere in the pro-wrestling industry, so a win here would be what Owens calls, the ultimate good moment for the duo.

“That would be the ultimate good moment for us, to achieve that. We’ve been tag team champions everywhere we’ve went, except for WWE. We definitely have to get that checked off the list soon enough.”

Owens confronted Drew McIntyre on last night’s Monday Night Raw.

(Quotes via Fightful)

Conrad Thompson Tried Getting DDP To Do a ‘Last Match’

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It appears as though Conrad Thompson also tried getting WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page to do a Last Match.

Recently, two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair headlined a Last Match event in which the main event was headlined by the last match of his career. Flair teamed up with Andrade El Idolo to defeat Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett.

The event was promoted by Conrad Thompson and Jim Crockett Promotions at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium. Since, Thompson has teased doing more events allowing legends to have their “Last Match.”

On a recent episode of his podcast, “DDP Snake Pit,” Diamond Dallas Page revealed that Thompson suggested that he take part in a Last Match. However, it doesn’t seem to be something DDP is interested in.

“It’s nothing I’ll ever do,” DDP said. “Conrad was like ‘You know DDP, you’d be perfect to do one of these,’ I was like ‘Nah bro, I’m good. I had my last match, it’s never going to be better than that.’ I was lucky enough to have all my boys around me and it was fun. I’m good with that.”

Page did get to do a match two years ago in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he teamed up with Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall against MJF and The Butcher and Blade.

DDP was also at Flair’s Last Match event, where he hit Matt Cardona with a Diamond Cutter, which got quite the reaction from the crowd. He was one of several professional wrestling legends at the show; including The Undertaker, Bret Hart, and Mick Foley.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

Brandi Rhodes Recently Worked a WWE Match (Report)

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Since leaving AEW alongside her husband, Cody, things have been quiet about Brandi Rhodes. 

It was previously reported that Brandi had a good relationship with WWE but wasn’t brought back to television when he returned for his match against Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 38. 

Fightful Select reports that Brandi had pushed for KultureCity and WWE to form a partnership. However, there is more to Brandi and WWE. 

Back in the Ring

Brandi Rhodes
Brandi Rhodes (Photo: AEW)

The report notes Rhodes was at the WWE Performance Center recently. Its unclear if she is signed with WWE, but she did a lot more than just ”visit friends” at the PC.

Brandi competed in a match at a PC Live event. She worked against a newer talent. The event took place on August 12, and she was seen at the training facility before that. 

Brandi last wrestled in January by taking on KiLynn King in AEW. Since her departure from All Elite Wrestling, she’s continued to wrestle at the Nightmare Factory.

While in WWE from 2013–2016, she was the regular ring announcer and backstage interviewer under the name Eden. 

AJ Styles Reveals How Close He Was to Signing with AEW

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AJ Styles has revealed exactly how close he was to becoming a member of the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) roster.

Styles was set to be a free agent this summer before signing a new multi-year extension with WWE. Now, Styles is enjoying a deal that is seeing him make well over a reported $3 million a year.

The former WWE Champion was asked about his contractual situation earlier this year with WWE in a recent interview with Inside The Ropes. Styles was specifically asked about how close he came to becoming a member of the AEW roster, where he has several friends.

AJ Styles
(via WWE)

Styles admits he doesn’t think it was close for him, but he does ultimately want AEW to succeed, as it benefits everyone in the long run.

“I didn’t really sign a new [WWE] deal. Basically, I had a player option and I just used that option. I had no plans, really, looking back.

“I want to be with WWE and as much as I’d like to be with my friends [in AEW], this is what I know, this what I know is expected of me, I understand what they need here in WWE, and I want to be a part of it.

“Like I said, this is a business. I’m going to go where business is best for AJ Styles… Was it close? I wouldn’t say it was close for me.”

“I want AEW to do well. Competition is a good thing, it makes everybody better, there that. We want to see people succeed and to tell the truth, I have friends in every company, I would like to see them do well.

“So, they have my support, just like anybody else. I want to see them do well, I don’t want to see anyone lose their job and you never know who might show up in WWE.”

Currently, AJ Styles is one of the top stars on Monday Night RAW. This week he even challenged for the United States Championship against Bobby Lashley.

Despite putting on a great performance with “The Almighty” inside the ring, he came up just short, eating a Spear off of a Phenomenal Forearm attempt for the defeat.

WWE Contacted Top AEW Star About Jumping Ship (Report)

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WWE reportedly tried to poach a talent from All Elite Wrestling (AEW) recently.

Since Triple H has assumed control of WWE creative, there have been several returns made on television. Former NXT stars such as Karrion Kross, Scarlett Bordeaux, B-Fab, Dakota Kai, and Hit Row have all been brought in.

Of course, it seems like this is only the beginning of the main roster Triple H has envisioned moving forward. While more NXT stars are expected to be brought up, some desired talents Triple H has his eyes on might not even be under the company’s umbrella at the moment.

Some could be with AEW, such as former WWE stars Adam Cole, Daniel Bryan, and more. Apparently, WWE tried to make a move on a current top AEW star to bring them into WWE.

WWE Headquarters

Fightful Select reports that a notable AEW star “reported to AEW management that WWE had reached out to them about coming to WWE.” The reported talent made it clear that they’re happy in AEW and wanted upper management to know about the situation.

The talent added that they have no desire to leave AEW. It was noted that the talent received a call from one of WWE’s talent relations department members. The talent responded by referring them to their representation rather than speaking directly.

A source also notes in the report that there were no mistakes made in regards to knowing that the talent was under contract with AEW on a full-time basis. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.

Eric Bischoff: Tony Khan Is Booking AEW Like a 14-Year-Old

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Eric Bischoff is not a fan of how Tony Khan is booking All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

It’s no secret that the former WCW president has been critical of the Khan-led promotion in recent months. Both he and Khan have exchanged harsh words through the media as of late, mainly due to Bischoff’s criticisms of AEW.

In a recent interview with SHAK Wrestling, Bischoff was asked for his thoughts on the booking in AEW at the moment. Bischoff doesn’t seem to be a fan of Khan’s creative mind or storytelling ability.

Instead, he feels like Khan is booking the promotion as a 14-year-old with too many toys to play with.

“If Tony Khan is smart, and I know he’s very, very smart, a lot smarter than me in a lot of ways. I don’t exactly think he’s got a creative instinct in his body.

“I think what he’s doing is reliving a childhood memory, you know of ECW and the indie scene, and super matches. He’s booking, in my opinion, like a 14-year-old would – who would have a lot of toys and things he can play with.

“But I’m not seeing story – we’ve seen the wrestling audience or AEW audience call it a story but it’s not. It’s an excuse for having a super match or dream match.”

Eric Bischoff
(A&E)

At one point Bischoff made a few appearances for AEW in 2020. However, that all stopped after he became more vocal about his issues with the product. That doesn’t mean fans should expect Bischoff to show up in WWE anytime soon.

Bischoff noted that WWE doesn’t need him back, and any changes he would make seem to already be in the works in the post-Vince McMahon era.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

Steve Austin: ‘I’ll Acknowledge That Roman Reigns is Doing Some Amazing Work’

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Steve Austin has kept a close eye on the WWE product and realizes the amazing work that Roman Reigns has been doing since returning to WWE television in the summer of 2020. 

For years, Vince McMahon pushed Reigns as a top star, but he never got over to the degree the former WWE boss wanted. It wasn’t until Reigns returned at SummerSlam that year with a new gimmick that was more like the true personality that made him the star McMahon knew he could be. 

During a recent interview with Bill Apter for Sportskeeda, Austin formally “acknowledged” the great work being done by the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. 

Steve Austin Acknowledges Roman Reigns

Steve Austin and Roman Reigns
Steve Austin and Roman Reigns

Stone Cold Steve Austin is one of the biggest stars in WWE history. An endorsement from him goes a long way. During his chat with Bill Apter, Austin gave Reigns his official stamp of approval.

“I’ll acknowledge that he’s doing some amazing work,” he said. “It took a while for him to put all the pieces of the puzzle together, and they didn’t book him in the greatest fashion at certain points of his career, but when he walked through the door, he was one of those guys that had that look and had that it factor.”

Austin said that Roman Reigns always had the potential to be the top guy in WWE. He just needed for the company to “do the right thing” with him.

“They finally started doing the right thing. He got to a mindset of where he’s at right now, and he’s just crushing it, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Steve Austin on The Usos

In addition to praising Roman Reigns, Austin had glowing things to say about The Usos.

Austin exclaimed, “All those Samoans can work their asses off!” He never wrestled Roman Reigns or The Usos, but did work with several members of the great Anoa’i wrestling family, including Yokozuna, Rikishi and The Rock.

“The Usos are just killing it,” he said. “Jimmy and Jey, they were kind of like just a tag team, but now they’re a tag team with an identity and character, The Bloodline. So they’re great as a unit, and they’re all related, but Jimmy and Jey just in and of themselves as The Usos, they are a thing now. They are a force to be reckoned with. They’re one of the best tag teams on planet Earth right now.” 

Roman Reigns defends the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Drew McIntyre at Clash at the Castle on Saturday, September 3rd.

Watch Steve Austin’s full interview with Bill Apter here:

H/T to WrestlingNews.co

AEW Talent Set to Appear at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17

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This coming January, New Japan Pro Wrestling will host its annual Wrestle Kingdom event, highlighting the biggest stars of the promotion.

Wrestle Kingdom is NJPW’s biggest event of the year, and next year’s show will have an international flavor to it.

AEW at Wrestle Kingdom

Wrestle Kingdom 17 will showcase NJPW’s biggest stars, but will reportedly include names from All Elite Wrestling.

Dave Meltzer noted on Wrestling Observer Radio today that there are plans for some AEW wrestlers to compete at the event, but didn’t name any specific stars.

This wouldn’t be the first time AEW and NJPW had teamed up, as at Wrestle Kingdom 14, then-AEW World Champion Chris Jericho defeated Hiroshi Tanahashi.

The two-night event also saw Jon Moxley defeat Lance Archer for the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship in a Texas Death Match.

AEW and New Japan

Wrestle Kingdom 17 will be just the latest team-up by the two massively popular promotions.

AEW star Wheeler YUTA competed in the Best of the Super Juniors tournament while Lance Archer is working the G1 Climax tournament.

The promotions also teamed together for the Forbidden Door Pay Per View in June which saw Jon Moxley defeat Hiroshi Tanahashi.

A Confirmed Match?

Wrestle Kingdom 17 is still months away, but one match may already be known.

AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door was rumored to have CM Punk face Hiroshi Tanahashi in the show’s main event, but that did not take place due to the AEW World Champion’s injury.

While speaking to Tokyo Sports in June, Tanahashi threw out the challenge for Punk to face him in the Tokyo Dome for Wrestle Kingdom.

Triple H Previews Tonight’s NXT Heatwave Special

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Triple H posted a Twitter thread on Tuesday afternoon to hype tonight’s NXT Heatwave special on the USA Network.

WWE’s head of talent relations and creative ran down the full card and explained why fans should invest in the performers and rivalries.

The following has been lightly edited for clarity:

“There has been a lot of excitement around the WWE Universe on Raw and SmackDown, but wanted to share thoughts on the great work the talent and coaches [in] NXT have been doing and the matches at NXT Heatwave tonight on the USA Network.”

Carmelo Hayes vs. Giovanni Vinci

“Consistency is a characteristic of any great performer. Carmelo Hayes has been just that. As NXT North American champion, he’s been equal parts entertaining and impressive in the ring.

He also complimented Hayes’ opponent, Giovanni Vinci, stating that the challenger knows what it takes to win.

Santos Escobar vs. Tony D’Angelo (Street Fight)

“No matter how experienced you are, leading a group of your peers is difficult. You have to be equal parts teammate and visionary. BOTH Santos Escobar and Tony D’Angelo have thrived in that role and have discovered a lot about themselves in this process.”

Cora Jade vs. Roxanne Perez

“You don’t fight with anyone harder than your best friend. (Right, Shawn Michaels?) For both Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez, the sky is the limit and while this match may seem a personal vendetta, I think it is just the beginning of another fabled tale of the NXT Women’s Division.”

NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose vs. Zoey Stark

“Zoey Stark’s week is packed. Not only does she tag with Nikkita Lyons in the Women’s tag title tournament on SmackDown, but tonight she faces Mandy Rose for the NXT Women’s Championship.

Another massive step in her growth and development, but since coming to NXT, Mandy Rose has demonstrated to everyone the kind of dedication she has always brought to her career. In what is now a record reign, she has solidified her position at the top of women’s division and for good reason.”

NXT Champion Bron Breakker vs. JD McDonagh

“The list of NXT Champions features competitors throughout the entirety of our industry’s landscape. Bron Breakker, to many, was thrust into his role as ‘top dog’ but has grown immensely as not only the person with the title, but a student of the game.

All the while, Jordan Devlin continues to level up. The audience is familiar with his skill in the ring, his journey through NXT UK and the passion and guts he brings to each performance. He’s entered into a new landscape & embraced it. I’m excited to see these two tonight.”

NXT Heatwave Poster

Shun Skywalker of DRAGONGATE Announced for MLW Super Series

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Major League Wrestling has announced another international promotion will be participating in the upcoming MLW Super Series event.

Super Series ’22 takes place Sunday, September 18th at the Space Event Center in Norcross, Georgia. This is MLW’s debut event in the greater Atlanta area.

The card will feature talent from multiple companies from around the world.

On Tuesday, MLW announced DRAGONGATE will also be represented on the card.

MLW x AAA x DRAGONGATE

MLW Super Series

The first competitor from the DRAGONGATE envoy competing at MLW Super Series will be none other than Shun Skywalker. Skywalker is a former Open The Dream Gate Champio and is regarded as one of the best wrestlers in Japan.

MLW CEO Court Bauer had this to say about Skywalker’s involvement:

“Skywalker has been the most requested wrestler MLW fans have hoped to see in an MLW ring since we began a strategic alliance with DRAGONGATE,” said Bauer. “Now the day has arrived when Skywalker will walk down that aisle and fight in Major League Wrestling. I want to thank the entire DRAGONGATE organization, as well as Mr. Kido being a part of this historic card in Atlanta.”

For more information on this show, including the current card and talent signed to appear, visit: MLW Super Series ’22.

Teddy Long on the Origins of ‘Going One-on-One With The Undertaker’

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In 2004, Theodore R. Long, who had previously worked as a manager and referee, was appointed the General Manager of SmackDown.

Long would become arguably the most iconic GM of the Blue brand thanks to his lengthy tenure on the show, and his various catchphrases and character quirks.

The WWE Hall of Famer could often be seen dancing to his own entrance theme, and never shied away from booking tag-team matches.

Going One on One…

For Long’s entire run as SmackDown’s General Manager, The Undertaker was a constant presence on the show, and ‘Teddy’ would often book ‘the Phenom’ in high-profile matches.

Many Superstars would be filled with dread when hearing the news from Long that they “will go one on one, with The Undertaker!”

Speaking to the MuscleManMalcolm YouTube channel, Long explained how a conversation with Vince McMahon inspired him to put some impact into announcing The Undertaker.

“This is really the truth. One time I was sitting down and we was talking to Vince. Vince wasn’t really talking to me. He was talking to somebody else and they went on and they introduced somebody. Vince stopped him and he said ‘No, you have to make my stars mean something when you introduce him.’ I heard that and that’s all I did. The Undertaker and Vince liked it. So that came from me.”

In 2009, Long found himself on the receiving end of The Undertaker’s wrath, after costing him the World Heavyweight Championship.

After making it to his car, a concerned Long would be accosted by The Undertaker who drove off with the SmackDown GM.

Paul Wight Talks About Leaving the Big Show Character Behind

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Paul Wight recently spoke with CricketNext about his role with AEW, what it’s like working for Tony Khan and the importance of wrestling fans having an alternative to WWE.

Since joining AEW in March 2021, Paul Wight has appeared as himself, not the Big Show character wrestling fans have known since 1999. WWE owns the intellectual property rights to the Big Show character. Wight likened himself to an actor playing Captain America, a character owned by Marvel.

When he was first approached about joining AEW, he was concerned about leaving the Big Show behind. He spent over 20 years building that identity and it was a big step to leave that behind.

Establishing His Own Identity

Paul Wight

At the end of the day, Paul Wight felt it was the right move to chart a new path as himself. Despite the Big Show’s global notoriety, he’s always more comfortable being in his own skin.

After considering Tony Khan’ss offer to join AEW, he couldn’t say no to the chance to be himself on television, do commentary and occasionally compete.

Wight says he likes the challenge of establishing his true identity. Behind the scenes, he’s also mentoring AEW’s young talent. One of the big lessons he’s tried to instill is that talent has to believe in themselves. “If you don’t believe in it, the fans won’t believe in it.”

On television, he’s a larger than life figure. When the cameras stop rolling, he says, “I’m just a regular dude. He’s got 12 cats and goes to the grocery store like everyone else.

Wight had glowing things to say about Tony Khan, who he believes is a die-hard wrestling fan who truly cares about the business.

He also emphasized the importance of having a viable alternative to WWE. Not everybody wants ‘soap opera’ sports entertainment and AEW tries to offer a more sports-based product for wrestling fans.

Check out Paul Wight’s discussion with CricketNext:

NXT Heatwave Preview: Matches & How to Watch

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The next themed episode of NXT 2.0 is NXT Heatwave. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 16th and will air live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida.

Five big matches are signed for NXT Heatwave, including three championship bouts.

The following is a preview for the event:

  • NXT Champion Bron Breakker vs. JD McDonagh
  • NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose vs. Zoey Stark
  • NXT North American Champion Carmelo Hayes vs. Giovanni Vinci
  • Street Fight: Santos Escobar vs. Tony D’Angelo
    (If Escobar wins, Legado is free; if D’Angelo wins, Santos must leave NXT)
  • Cora Jade vs. Roxanne Perez

Main Event Preview

NXT Heatwave Preview

The main event of NXT Heatwave will see JD McDonagh challenge Bron Breakker for the NXT Championship.

WWE has produced the following video recapping this feud:

WWE Issues new Statement on Vince McMahon Hush-Money Scandal

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In June, WWE announced that they would be investigating allegations into Vince McMahon, following claims against the then-Chairman published in the Wall Street Journal.

McMahon was alleged to have paid off several women who it is claimed he had extramarital relationships with.

McMahon stepped down as WWE CEO and Chairman amid the investigation into him, and announced his retirement on July 25.

The Statement

This week, WWE issued its quarterly report to the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

In a statement, WWE explained how McMahon was able to make payments privately, which should have been recorded as company expenses (via PW Insider)

“We did not maintain effective risk assessment based on the criteria established in the COSO framework which resulted in deficiencies in principles associated with risk assessment. Specifically, these control deficiencies constitute material weaknesses, either individually or in the aggregate, relating to: identifying and analyzing risks to the achievement of objectives across the entity.”

The promotion added that they have plans to fix loopholes going forward that allowed such activity.

What’s next for Vince McMahon and WWE?

McMahon has resigned from all duties with WWE but the investigation into him is still going on.

McMahon has promised to respect the result of the investigation no matter the result.

With McMahon gone, Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan have been appointed co-CEOs of WWE.

McMahon has also resigned as WWE’s head of creative, with Triple H taking on the role.

“The Game” has undone several of his father-in-law’s actions, from bans on certain words to rehiring some of McMahon’s released Superstars.

Another Match Set for WWE Clash at the Castle

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The match card for WWE Clash at the Castle is starting to take shape.

WWE’s first UK stadium event in 30 years takes place Saturday, September 3rd from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

Approximately 63,000 tickets have been sold for the event, as of last week (via WrestleTix). The venue is configured to accommodate nearly 72,000 people and this show might just sell out as we get closer to bell time.

SEScoops will be covering WWE Clash at the Castle from all angles. Stay tuned for more news, our expert staff predictions, betting odds and more.

Clash at the Castle Matches

Riddle Rollins Clash at the Castle

Monday’s edition of WWE Raw saw the return of Riddle. The Original Bro called out the man he was supposed to face at SummerSlam, Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins.

Later in the show, Rollins was in the ring cutting a promo when he was attacked by Riddle. This ignited an intense brawl that spilled over into the crowd.

WWE has since confirmed Riddle vs. Rollins is signed. With that match set, here’s the updated card for WWE Clash at the Castle:

  • Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre
  • SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan vs. Shayna Baszler
  • Riddle vs. Seth Rollins
  • Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss and Asuka vs. Bayley, Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky

Stay tuned to SEScoops as more matches are announced for WWE Clash at the Castle.

How to Watch

WWE Clash at the Castle takes place Saturday, September 3rd. The show begins at 1pm ET.

Clash at the Castle will stream live on Peacock in the United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

When Drew McIntyre Found Out About Karrion Kross’ WWE Return

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Karrion Kross made his surprise return to WWE earlier this month. His goal was to establish himself as a main event talent and he did so by attacking Drew McIntyre.

While a lot of people expected Kross to return after Triple H took over WWE creative, not many thought his comeback will be put together so quickly. Turns out, McIntyre himself also found out about it at the last second.

The former WWE champion spoke to Chris Van Vliet recently. When asked about the shocking return of Kross, McIntyre explained that he was surprised himself:

“I was very surprised. I didn’t know till the very last second.”

– Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre mentioned how Karrion Kross is someone who deserves an opportunity. Though he made it clear that this opportunity will not come at his expense:

“[He’s] somebody who’s worked hard for an opportunity, deserves that opportunity, and is getting the biggest opportunity of his career. Unfortunately for him, it’s not gonna come at Drew McIntyre’s expense.”

There are a lot of rumors of what Triple H is planning for the future of the unified WWE Universal championship. Many believe that he will use Kross to somehow split the world titles but there is no word on how it may happen.

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

Drew McIntyre Reveals Favorite WrestleMania Matches From His Childhood

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Like many other current wrestling stars, Drew McIntyre grew up being fan of the sport. He got to witness the Attitude Era at its peak during his childhood. It’s no surprise that some of the top WrestleMania moments from that time period are also his favorite Mania moments. The former WWE champion recently spoke to Chris Van Vliet on the occasion of WrestleMania 39 tickets going on sale.

McIntyre was asked about his favorite matches on the Grandest Stage of Them All. He first mentioned how he was completely obsessed with wrestling growing up:

“I was completely obsessed, watched everything I could get my hands on. WrestleMania was such an important event every single year. My brother and I [would] just stay awake to one, two o’clock in the morning, on a school night, and be very tired at school the next day. It was always, a very big event for us.”

‘I May Have Beat Him Up’: Drew McIntyre

Drew McIntyre
(via WWE)

Drew McIntyre then listed out some of his favorite matches featuring stars such as Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels and Stone Cold Steve Austin

“Some of the big memories as a kid for me, as a Bret Hart fan [was when] Bret was on the losing side of a really big one. One of my earliest memories with Bret Hart [and] Shawn Michaels [at] WrestleMania 12. One of my good friends at school was a Shawn guy. I was a Bret guy. The next day he kind of rubbed it in about the result and I may have beat him up at school.

Bret Hart [and] Stone Cold Steve Austin [at WrestleMania 13], an incredible match. One of the best matches of all time from a storytelling perspective. Physicality perspective and the double turn at the end. Just unbelievable. I remember how much I loved the theatrics, WrestleMania 14, of Undertaker [and] Kane the first match. The build, Takers’ entrance, just Kane’s presentation. [The] story overall, and just these two monsters going at it. I can go on and on and on. But just off the top of my head, these are the three that just popped right in there.”

More Originals From SEScoops:

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

A Current WWE Superstar is Ready to Face Off Against Bray Wyatt

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In July 2021, WWE released Bray Wyatt, shocking fans and those in the wrestling industry.

As The Fiend, Wyatt’s alter ego which had debuted two years earlier, the former Universal Champion had become immensely popular with audiences.

Following his release, it was reported that differences with then-WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, health issues, and a $4 million contract were factors in WWE’s decision.

Tick Tock

Wyatt has kept away from the ring since his release from WWE, but recent reports have suggested that he will return to the company soon.

On Twitter, former ECW personality Joel Gertner expressed his desire to see Wyatt face Karrion Kross, who returned to WWE alongside Scarlett on the post-Summerslam 2022 episode of SmackDown.

Gertner said that if the match was to happen, then he wouldn’t need to watch wrestling anymore, as the industry would have peaked with the Kross-Wyatt match.

In response, Kross shared a tweet with a video, where a character encourages another to “call me,” signifying that the two-time former NXT Champion is interested in facing Wyatt.

The film clip also gave the impression that Wyatt is already in Kross’ ‘house’ which would be WWE in this scenario.

Wyatt’s Return

While Bray seemed gone for good when he was released from WWE in 2021, a lot has changed over the past year.

It’s reported that Triple H is much higher on Bray than McMahon ever was and that several Superstars have made it clear they’d “go to bat” for the former Universal Champion.

Wyatt hasn’t commented publicly on the rumors of an imminent WWE return, but did recently share a social media post where he referenced WWE.

Watch: Sasha Banks and Naomi Attend She-Hulk Premiere

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Sasha Banks and Naomi have kept quiet about their wrestling future since their Raw walkout, but the duo have been making public appearances.

The most recent of these appearances came on Monday when the former WWE women’s tag team champions attended the premiere for new Marvel series She-Hulk.

She Hulk is a new Disney+ series from Marvel. The show follows lawyer Jennifer Walters who becomes a superhero after receiving a blood transfusion from Bruce Banner. It’s set to premiere on August 18, 2022.

Banks herself posted photos from the She-Hulk launch event on social media. As seen in the pictures below, both the wrestling stars were donning green attires matching the occasion:

Naomi also posted this video clip of her and Sasha breaking it down for the cameras:

Sasha Banks & Naomi

Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of WWE back in May due to creative frustrations. At one point it appeared they were done with the company, with reports indicating that Banks had gotten her release.

Things changed after Vince McMahon retired and Triple H took over the creative in the promotion. It’s now believed that Sasha Banks and Naomi have agreed to return to WWE, and a deal has been worked out.

WWE has not yet commented on their return, but it’s believed that they will show up once the ongoing women’s tag team championship tournament has concluded.

Drew McIntyre Just Used a WWE ‘Banned’ Term on Raw Many Times

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In the wake of Vince McMahon’s retirement, there have been sweeping changes throughout WWE.

Not only has there been a change of management, with Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan now running things as co-CEOs, but the roster has also changed.

WWE’s new Head of Talent Relations Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque has brought back several Superstars released by the previous administration, and WWE went back on another old rule on this week’s Raw.

McIntyre on Raw

During this week’s WWE Monday Night Raw, Drew McIntyre made a rare appearance on the red brand, in order to scout possible opponents.

McIntyre spoke about Ciampa, Seth Rollins and AJ Styles as possible opponents for the night before being interrupted by Kevin Owens.

During a back-and-forth promo segment between the two, McIntyre used the term ‘wrestle’ which had been banned by the WWE’s previous regime.

“We’re wrestlers in a wrestling ring. Let’s just freakin’ wrestle!”

Drew McIntyre to Kevin Owens on this week’s WWE Monday Night Raw.

McIntyre would defeat Owens by disqualification after being attacked by The Usos during their match.

Post-match, the two-time former WWE Champion would fight back against the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions but would take a stunner from Owens.

Undoing the Ban

McIntyre use of the term wrestling was a shock to some, but WWE has made an effort to use some of the previously banned terms.

At Summerslam 2022, Paul Heyman received an F5 from Brock Lesnar, and on the following SmackDown, Roman Reigns said his special counsel was being treated at a hospital.

Traditionally, WWE has banned the use of the term ‘hospital’ instead favoring the more vague ‘local medical facility.’

WWE’s reasoning was that saying a Superstar was at a local hospital would lead to fans visiting nearby hospitals hoping to meet the wrestler.

Top WWE Star Spotted At GCW Event (Photo)

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WWE superstar Seth Rollins was recently spotted at a Game Changer Wrestling event that took place over the weekend.

GCW held the Homecoming event from the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The event was split into two nights.

The first night of the event saw Jon Moxley defending the GCW world championship against Effy. Night two of the PPV featured the Vows Renewal Ceremony of Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green.

Rollins didn’t enter the arena with the fans. The former Universal champion however, was spotted catching the action from behind the entrance curtain:

https://www.instagram.com/p/ChQ4HaAuB3Y/

There is no word yet on what Seth Rollins was doing at the GCW show. It’s assumed that he was there supporting his Shield teammate in Moxley.

The Visionary is currently involved in a feud with Riddle. The two were supposed to have a match at SummerSlam. Though this bout was cancelled and Riddle was pulled from WWE programming.

The Ultimate Bro made his return to WWE TV on Raw this Monday. He resumed his feud with Rollins and attacked the former world champion on the show.

There is no word yet on what the company is planning for these two. It’s likely that we will see them going one on one at the upcoming Clash At The Castle PPV.

Unseen Footage Of Dexter Lumis’ Raw Invasion

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After making a surprise appearance following the main event of Raw last week, Dexter Lumis once again tried to invade the Red Branded show this week.

The episode featured a match between AJ Styles and Bobby Lashley for the United States Championship. At one point during the bout, The Miz and Ciampa showed up at the ringside.

Miz was ready to attack Styles while Ciampa distracted the referee. However, Dexter Lumis apparently saved AJ from the attack.

Lumis stalked Miz which stopped him from taking the shot on Styles. The Tortured Artist was then quickly taken out by the security and disappeared from the broadcast.

Fans who were in attendance later posted videos from the show. As seen below, they show Dexter Lumis entering the arena and being escorted out by the security:

The former NXT star was one of the featured stars of the development brand during the Wednesday Night Wars era.

However, Vince McMahon didn’t find his character interesting enough and he was released from his contract in April this year.

Triple H who has been on a hiring spree since taking over WWE creative brought him back last week. He has also re-signed stars such as Karrion Kross and Scarlett.

Hall Of Famer Returning To WWE For Two Shows This Weekend

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WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus will be returning to the company for a couple of Live Event appearances this weekend.

The wrestling veteran announced on Twitter that she will be a part of the live event from Kingston on Saturday and London on Sunday:

“Guess who’s coming to the @WWE Live Events this weekend!! Come see @FightOwensFight, @DomMysterio35  and @AlexaBliss_WWE and yours truly. Welp someone has to come and maintain control…”

WWE has not announced what Trish Stratus will be doing on the show, but it won’t be a surprise if she gets physical during the event.

The former champion made similar appearances during WrestleMania week earlier this year. She had an altercation with Becky Lynch during a house show and also took part in The TKO Show with Kevin Owens.

Trish Stratus had a successful WWE career in early 2000. She won the women’s championship a record 7 times during her run and inspired many girls to pursue a wrestling career.

The Hall of Famer made an in ring return in 2018 during Royal Rumble. She competed in several matches after her return including a tag team match at Evolution. Trish concluded this run with a match against Charlotte Flair at SummerSlam 2019.