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Triple H Has Some Big Surprises in Store For WWE Fans

Joey Galizia
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A couple months ago the pro-wrestling world was shocked to learn that Vince McMahon had decided to retire as the chairman of WWE, a move that many never thought would happen as McMahon’s impact on the industry had been felt dating back four decades.

In his place his son-in-law, WWE legend and former 14-time world champion Triple H had taken over as head of the creative division. The Game had shown his skill for booking in NXT over the years, with the “developmental” brand and their bi-monthly Takeover events being considered the most “can’t miss” shows under the WWE banner.

Since taking over Triple H has brought back a number of previously released talents, including Braun Strowan, IYO Sky, Dakota Kai, Karrion Kross, Scarlett, Hit Row, Johnny Gargano, and Dexter Lumis. There have also been reports that he is in talks with Bray Wyatt, but the Eater of Worlds has yet to make his WWE return.

A new report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has revealed that Triple H is actually planning more surprises for WWE, ones that are apparently not being talked about in the wrestling community. It was noted that this was regarding more talents coming in, but that doesn’t mean it couldn’t also be surprises business-wise.

One surprise that shocked fans this week was seeing NXT 2.0 tease a return to their old Black and Gold persona. 2.0 had become a much more colorful show since the brand got a remake last year. Stay tuned.

Chris Jericho Reveals What He Didn’t Like About Working For WWE

Anutosh Bajpai
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One thing that attracts a lot of people towards AEW is the creative control the promotion offers. The company does not employ any writers and people are allowed to write their own promos. According to Chris Jericho, it’s the one thing that he hated about working for WWE.

Y2J discussed a number of different topics on the latest Talk Is Jericho. Speaking about the difference between Vince McMahon and Tony Khan, Jericho explained how Khan has a clarity to his vision. He then mentioned that in WWE, it wasn’t Vince McMahon who he hated working with:

“The one thing in WWE was, a lot of times they’re like ‘Draw me a picture.’ [I’m like] ‘What would you like a picture of Vince?’ ‘A cow.’ ‘Okay.’ ‘Ugh, Make it a horse.’ ‘Uh, Okay,’ ‘Umm make a dragon.’ ‘Oh okay.’ With Tony it’s like ‘We need a dragon.’ It might be a green dragon. It might be a red dragon. It might be a fire dragon.” said Chris Jericho, “At least we know where we’re going with it.

I loved working with Vince, and I did work with Vince, but it’s writers [that I don’t like]. Every Sunday, the writer would call you and say, ‘Here’s what you’re doing this week.’ That to me is just like, ‘I f*cking don’t like that, man. I don’t want to be told what I’m doing.'”

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This article has been edited for clarity

Bray Wyatt & WWE Have Had Talks About a Potential Return

Andrew Ravens
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Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda) remains one of the top names on pro wrestling’s free agent market. Wrestling fans have wondered about his return since his shocking release from the company in July 2021.

WWE has brought back several former Superstars over the past several months. Ever since Triple H took over as head of talent relations and creative, we’ve seen the company re-sign performers including Braun Strowman, Johnny Gargano, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky, Karrion Kross and Hit Row.

Wyatt is a former World Champion, so it should come as no surprise that WWE has had talks with the Eater of Worlds about coming back into the fold. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, those talks stalled out, but the door is still open for the two sides to work together again.

“Regarding talk of Wyatt returning, there were talks in that direction. At one point, the talks stalled, but it was said it was not a dead issue. Talks with him outside WWE had also stalled in the past, as his asking price was well above what other companies were willing to pay.”

– Wrestling Observer Newsletter ( dated 9.19.22)

Bray Wyatt was one of the top earners during his time with WWE. Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns make more money than anybody, but Wyatt was one of the highest paid full-time acts.

Since leaving WWE, he’s had talks with a few other wrestling promotions. Ultimately, we’ve heard he’s got a very high asking price that has prevented people like Tony Khan pulling the trigger on acquiring his services.

Wyatt has hinted on social media that his love for pro wrestling is alive and well. It’s probably only a matter of time before he’s back inside the squared circle.

Braun Strowman on WWE Return: I Cried When I Came Back Through the Curtain

Thomas Lowson
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Braun Strowman couldn’t hold back his emotions after his impactful return to WWE earlier this month.

The former WWE Universal Champion was released by WWE on June 2, 2021, as part of ‘budget cuts’ made in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Strowman’s departure was notable given that he had been heavily featured on WWE programming, with his final match being a WWE Championship opportunity at WrestleMania Backlash 2021.

The Return

After over a year away, Strowman returned on the September 5, 2022 episode of Monday Night Raw.

Strowman’s return came at the expense of four tag teams, the Alpha Academy, Street Profits, Los Lotharios, and The New Day, who had been competing to determine the number one contenders for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships.

In the days prior to Raw, it was reported that Strowman was set to return, the latest name to be rehired by WWE in the post-Vince McMahon era.

Emotions

Strowman may be the Monster Among Men, but the former Universal Champion was feeling heavily emotional over his return.

Speaking on After the Bell, Braun recalled his return after a year away from WWE.

“I don’t want to admit it because I’m supposed to be this big giant tough monster, I had to swallow back the emotions. It was really really hard to stay in character.”

Braun Strowman.

Strowman looked emotional during the early stages of his return, as seen in the image above.

The recently returned Superstar added that the emotional rush of returning still gets to him now, nearly two weeks after his comeback.

“I heard that roar, I heard the place come unglued. I just gave myself goosebumps thinking about it. I am home.”

Braun Strowman.

Behind the Curtain

Strowman was just about able to hold it together on TV, but couldn’t keep his emotions bottled up after the segment was finished.

“I cried when I came back through the curtain. Once I got away from everybody, I finally was able to absorb it and let it in.”

Braun Strowman on breaking down after WWE Raw return.

The former Universal Champion reiterated that he is ‘home’ and that “it’s good to be back.”

Reports have come out stating that Strowman will be a top-tier babyface on SmackDown going forward.

EC3 Weighs In on Braun Strowman’s WWE Return, CYN, NWA, More

Ricky Steamboat to Wrestle for the First Time in Over a Decade

Thomas Lowson
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Ricky ‘The Dragon’ Steamboat will be lacing up his boots one more time after over a decade away from the ring.

Steamboat, considered one of the greatest of his generation, is a former NWA World Heavyweight Champion, and one-time Intercontinental Champion, among other accolades.

In 2009, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by his long-time rival Ric Flair.

Returning to the Ring

Earlier this year, it was reported that Steamboat was going to face Ric Flair in the latter’s final match, but that didn’t happen.

On Twitter, the Big Time Wrestling promotion confirmed that The Dragon will wrestle as part of November 27, event at the Dorton Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina.

This will be Ricky Steamboat’s first match since competing at the June 18, 2010 event for WWE’s then-developmental territory: Florida Championship Wrestling.

That event saw Steamboat team with his son Richie Steamboat to defeat Caylen Croft and Trent Barretta.

The Hall of Famer’s most recent singles match came in August 2009, when he defeated a rookie Drew McIntyre at a WWE Live event.

Life After the Ring

While Steamboat’s full-time days in the ring are long behind him, The Dragon remains active in various roles.

In 2012, Steamboat worked as a trainer for NXT (now WWE’s developmental program) and became an ambassador for the company the following year.

In his first televised appearance for TBS in 28 years, Steamboat served as the guest timekeeper on the August 17, 2022, episode of AEW Dynamite.

Ricky Steamboat Declined Offer To Face Ric Flair One Last Time

Bayley Comments On New NXT Logo

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE unveiled a new logo for NXT during this week’s episode of the show and signaled the brand’s return to its Black and Gold roots. Like many other people, Bayley also felt good to see the show reverting back to a more familiar aesthetic.

The former Women’s Champion recently had an interview with In The Kliq. When asked about the new logo, she noted that she doesn’t know what it exactly means. Though according to the former NXT star, she is proud of the talent there regardless:

“I don’t know exactly what that means for a change. They just changed the logo back. It just felt good to see that again. But the whole roster there is killing it.” said Bayley, “I’m so proud of all the girls. I’ve been able to spend so much time there during my rehab and gotten to know a lot of the guys, gotten to know a lot of the girls. Watch them train, watch how hard they work.

So I don’t think it really matters what it’s called, whether it’s called 2.0 and it has some paint splashed on it, or whether it’s old black and gold. What they’re doing in the ring doesn’t change. They’re just making everyone proud that came from there and they’re just gonna continue to do so.”

You can watch the full interview of Bayley below:

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Logan Paul Headed to SmackDown, Tensions Building with Reigns

Thomas Lowson
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Logan Paul will be on tonight’s episode of WWE Smackdown on FOX, the promotion has confirmed.

In a tweet, it was announced that the YouTuber-turned-boxer will be on the show, which will air from the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

The show will also feature a fatal-four-way tag-team match to determine the number one contenders for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships.

Confronting the Tribal Chief?

WWE hasn’t confirmed what Paul will be doing on the show, but he may be settings his sights on the Head of the Table.

During a recent episode of Paul’s Impaulsive podcast, Roman Reigns spoke about his career thus far in WWE. Paul said he’d love to one day face Reigns one day.

Reigns’ next match is expected to be at the Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia, as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion is not scheduled for next month’s Hell in a Cell.

Earlier this week, Paul and Paul Heyman had the following exchange on social media:

Logan Paul

Paul made his WWE debut last year, as part of the Sami Zayn Vs. Kevin Owens, and sided with Zayn.

After making his WWE debut last year, Paul took things to the next level this year, having his in-ring debut at WrestleMania 38.

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

Paul’s wrestling ability in the match and solid heel work earned praise from fans and those in the industry alike.

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

Logan Paul On His In-Ring Debut: ‘I Want To Be Humble, But I’m Good At This’

Matt Hardy Can’t Wait for Fans to Meet the ‘New’ Jeff Hardy

Thomas Lowson
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Fans will soon get the chance to see a ‘new’ Jeff Hardy following the former World Champion’s lengthy absence from AEW.

Hardy hasn’t competed for AEW since Double or Nothing 2022 in May, where he and Matt defeated the Young Bucks. Back in June, he was arrested in Florida and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.

This marks Jeff’s third DUI arrest in 10 years, after having faced arrests in both WWE and TNA/Impact Wrestling. Hardy has since been suspended without pay from AEW, and will not be allowed to return until he shows he has changed.

The New Jeff Hardy

Jeff has entered alcohol rehabilitation, and is said to be making great improvements, according to his brother Matt Hardy.

On the latest edition of “The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy” podcast, Hardy said that Jeff’s return to AEW isn’t too far away.

“We’re getting close to the point where we meet the new Jeff and we figure out his future and what he ends up doing. I’m pretty excited.”

Matt Hardy on his brother Jeff.

Matt added that his brother realizes that this is a make-or-break moment for his career.

“I feel like his mentality is that he knows he has to make changes and do what’s right and I feel like he’s at the point where he will this time around. I’m excited to have him back.”

Last Chance

While Tony Khan has said he supports Jeff and wants him to get better, the AEW President has said this is his last chance he’ll get in the promotion.

Hardy has pleaded not guilty to all charges related to his June 2022 arrest, and if convicted of the DUI charge, faces up to five years in prison.

Jeff Hardy Opens Up on Declining WWE HOF Induction

H/T WrestleTalk

Mia Yim Fires Back at Claims About Keith Lee

Thomas Lowson
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At one point, Keith Lee was seemingly on the cusp of being WWE’s next breakout Superstar, starting off 2021 with a WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre.

After a lengthy hiatus from the ring, partly due to COVID-19, Lee returned in July 2021, but was released from the promotion that November.

Body Shape

Since his release, there has been speculation about why Lee fell from prominence so quickly, and was eventually cut from WWE.

A popular theory is that Lee was cut before of his weight, with some claiming that Lee refused to lose weight, forcing WWE to end their push of the ‘Limitless’ one.

In April 2022, Lee denied a claim that his weight was a factor in his release, describing the idea as a “fallacy.”

Mia Yim Fires Back

Many fans have compared Lee’s situation to Gunther, who lost a considerable amount of weight during his WWE tenure.

Gunther was called to the main-roster earlier this year and is currently the Intercontinental Champion, which fans have cited as proof that Lee’s WWE run would have been better had he lost weight.

Responding to a tweet comparing Lee and Gunther, in which it was again claimed that Lee “refused” to lose weight, the Limitless One’s wife Mia Yim fired back.

Yim, another WWE alum, said that even if Lee’s weight was a factor, that his medical issues during his WWE time could have cost him his life.

Yim explained that doctors told him that he could die if he elevated his heart rate, so working out wasn’t an option.

Lee After WWE

Keith Lee did not find the success on WWE’s main roster many expected for him, but he has bounced back in AEW.

In February 2022, Lee joined AEW, defeating Isiah Kassidy to qualify for the “Face of the Revolution” Ladder match at Revolution, which was won by Wardlow.

In July, Lee, alongside fellow WWE alum Swerve Strickland, captured the AEW World Tag Team Championships.

Speculation that AEW Tag Title Change is Invalid – Tony Khan Responds

WWE Teasing Unlikely Opponent For Roman Reigns

Anutosh Bajpai
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Many people have been wondering who Roman Reigns will face next after defeating Drew McIntyre at Clash At The Castle. WWE is now teasing the most unlikely of the opponents for the Tribal Chief.

It all started when the Unified WWE Universal champion appeared on Logan Paul’s Impaulsive podcast. He told ‘the boys’ to acknowledge him afterwards for bringing the Island of Relevancy to the show.

Paul Heyman then responded to a command from Reigns and claimed that he will ‘bestow upon’ the wisdom that Logan Paul desperately lacks.

Roman Reigns vs Logan Paul?

When the YouTube star asked the Wiseman how he planned on doing this, Triple H intervened and invited him to SmackDown tomorrow night:

“…It just so happens I have a globally televised platform to allow our Superstars to “handle” their issues with one another … consider this an invite for #Smackdown tomorrow night!”

Logan Paul has since accepted this invitation and WWE is promoting that he will be bringing his ‘Media Megastar energy’ to the Blue Branded Show.

While not confirmed, all this seems like a set up for a potential match between Logan Paul and Roman Reigns at the Crown Jewel PPV.

Whether or not it actually happens will be revealed in future. One thing is for sure that the confrontation on SmackDown will be a very interesting one.

MJF Calls Out WWE Star For ‘Playing Top Guy’

Anutosh Bajpai
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It’s not uncommon for AEW and WWE stars to reference each other in various ways. However, two of them have decided to go a step further and engage in a verbal battle directly.

It started when Sheamus shared a spoof of the PWI Top 500 List. The list titled Pro Wrestling Banger Index 2022 had his own name repeated several times in the top spots.

This led to an exchange between The Celtic Warrior and Happy Corbin. In one of his replies, the former world champion told Corbin that ‘real heels wear scarfs.’ AEW star MJF took notice of this tweet and replied with ‘sad.’

MJF Fires Back At Sheamus

When Sheamus tweeted out a Conor McGregor GIF asking who Maxwell was, he fired back at the WWE star. The AEW talent said that the former WWE champion has been handed the ball multiple times and fell:

“The guy you alluded to. Stop now or I’m gonna devour you. You can rock 6-inch lifts and play top guy, but you’ve been handed the ball multiple times and fell. I’m glad you’re having a resurgence and finally figured out how to get over. It only took you a decade. Took me 1 day.”

This Twitter war between the two wrestling stars has continued with Sheamus claiming that he was talking about Chris Jericho and MJF replying to these claims.

While a confrontation between the two is unlikely to happen anytime soon, the war of words shows that the tensions between the two sides will continue to pick up in coming times.

CM Punk Returning To MMA Commentary Amid AEW Drama

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former AEW world champion CM Punk will be returning to MMA commentary amidst the ongoing drama that has stemmed from his media scrum comments.

Cage Fury Fighting Championships or CFFC recently announced their return to Parx Casino in Bensalem, Penn on October 8.

They revealed that the event will be main evented by a fight between Greg Velasco and Kevin Sears for the vacant World Heavyweight Championship.

The press release also confirmed that the AEW star will be a part of the show and he will call the action alongside John Morgan:

“Former All Elite Wrestling champion and two-time UFC veteran CM Punk calls the action at CFFC 113 alongside Mixed Martial Arts.com editor-in-chief John Morgan on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

The Straight Edge star has been absent from AEW programming since he called out the AEW EVPs in the All Out post-media scrum. The comments led to a backstage fight between Punk and The Elite.

Kenny Omega and others have been suspended from the company as a result. Punk was subsequently stripped of the AEW world title as well. His suspension, however, hasn’t been confirmed by any source.

The former champion has gotten surgery for a torn tricep in the meantime and he is expected to stay out of action for the foreseeable future.

AEW Star MJF Gets Engaged (Photos)

Robert Lentini
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All Elite Wrestling star MJF is engaged to be married.

The 26-year-old took to social media to make the announcement and wish his fiancé, Naomi Rosenblum, a happy birthday. N

Naomi made an appearance on AEW television during a February episode of Dynamite when MJF was carried to the ring on a throne.

MJF made the announcement by writing “Hbd to my fiancé or whatever”. Naomi posted

“I said yes :). And yes I forced him to smile for pics (after he told me I’m the luckiest girl in the world.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CiijUy1vIDZ/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

MJF sent out another message to all the ladies that are devastated to hear the news.

“Ladies panicking on my TL don’t worry. Just cuz there’s a goalie doesn’t mean you can’t score. Strive for greatness. #Saltoftheearth”

MJF Wants The AEW Championship

On last night’s episode of Dynamite, MJF revealed that Stokely Hathaway’s stable is called “The Firm” and they will help him out when needed. MJF kept insulting the fans but they wouldn’t stop cheering his name. Maxwell responded to Moxley’s promo from last week and claimed that he was one demon that Jon cannot slay.

Stokely, W. Morrissey, Gunn Club, and Lee Moriarty all interfered in the Casino Ladder match. A masked man then marched down the entrance ramp as The Joker entrant, climbed the ladder, and captured the chip suspended above the ring that guarantees a future title shot. MJF was later to be revealed to the man under the mask.

After the AEW Championship was vacated following the media scrum brawl after All Out, Tony Khan announced the Tournament of Champions. Jon Moxley will battle Bryan Danielson in the finals of the tournament to determine the new AEW Champion at Dynamite Grand Slam next week at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

NXT Halloween Havoc Main Event, Upcoming TV Results (Spoilers)

Andrew Ravens
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WWE taped the September 20th and September 27th episodes of NXT television on Wednesday night in Orlando, Florida.

At the tapings, it was revealed that Bron Breakker will defend the NXT Title against JD McDonagh and Ilja Dragunov in a triple threat match at the Halloween Havoc premium live event on Saturday, October 22, from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, FL.

It’s expected WWE will bring back the TakeOver name for these NXT specials starting with this event. 

NXT Television Spoilers

The match will be confirmed on the September 27th episode of NXT. Here are the spoilers, courtesy of PWInsider:

September 20th Episode

Nathan Frazer defeated Axiom to tie their Best of 3 Series.

Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne defeated Ivy Nile and Tatum Paxley. Unified NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose was at ringside for the bout. 

Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, and Jagger Reid come to the ring for a promo. A masked woman with a hoodie is seen watching from the back of the crowd. Edris Enofe and Malik Blade challenged The Dyad to a match.

The Dyad defeated Edris Enofe and Malik Blade.

Cora Jade defeated Wendy Choo. After the match, Lash Legend attacked Choo while Jade laughed from the entranceway.

Andre Chase and Bodhi Hayward defeated Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams. After the bout, Chase, and Bodhi joined Thea Hail for a big celebration in the crowd with the Chase University student section.

Oro Mensah (fka Oliver Carter) made his debut with a win over Grayson Waller with an assist from Apollo Crews.

JD McDonagh defeated Tyler Bate. Post-match, NXT Champion Bron Breakker came out for a face-off with JD until Ilja Dragunov interrupted.

September 27th Episode

Joe Gacy (with The Dyad [Rip Fowler and Jagger Reid]) defeated Cameron Grimes. The person in the red hoodie was seen again in the crowd.

Sol Ruca defeated Amari Miller

Nikkita Lyons (with Zoey Stark) defeated Kayden Carter (with Katana Chance)

Ilja Dragunov cut a promo about winning the NXT UK Title and being forced to relinquish it. JD McDonagh exchanged words with him over Ilja taking JD out of NXT UK. Bron Breakker walked out. JD said that due to him being the #1 Contender, Ilja and Bron should fight each other for the right to face him. Bron mentions due to being a Steiner, he’s good at math and he has 33 1/3 chance of beating both of them at Halloween Havoc in a Triple Threat match.

Damon Kemp vs. Brutus Creed ended in a no contest as Damon used a chair several times to beat down Brutus.

Wes Lee defeated Tony D’Angelo (with Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo) via referee stoppage. Tony got thrown into the middle turnbuckle, and doctors checked on him. The match was called off. Tony needed to be helped backstage by a few people.

Mandy Rose (with Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jane) defeated Fallon Henley in a non-title match. Post-match, Rose cut a promo about Alba Fyre, who came on the screen and mentioned she’d be coming for the Women’s Championship.

Ilja Dragunov defeated Xyon Quinn.

Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen defeated Wolfgang and Mark Coffey of Gallus in a Pub Rules Match. Briggs and Jensen hit their finisher on Mark Coffey, a garbage can wrapped around him, to win the match.

‘This Guy Looks Like A Jobber’: Chris Jericho Recalls Initial Reaction To AEW Star

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

One thing that AEW excels at is bringing the spotlight to talented workers who haven’t received a break in the industry. One such name is Eddie Kingston. He had been wrestling for 18 years before he was brought into the limelight by the company. Chris Jericho, who has been feuding with the AEW star recently admits that he hadn’t even heard of the Mad King before he joined the promotion.

Y2J talked about it on the latest episode of Talk Is Jericho. Chris noted that at the first look of Eddie Kingston, he thought Kingston to be a jobber:

“When Cody first brought him in, I thought it was Eddie Edwards that he’s bringing in. I didn’t know who Eddie Kingston was.” recalled Chris Jericho, “[I was like] ‘Eddie Kingston, is that Eddie Edwards?’ [Cody said] ‘No, it’s Eddie Kingston. [I said] ‘Which guy is that, who is this?’

So he walked in there. Just looking at him I was like ‘God this guy looks like a jobber. Who is this guy?’ Then I watched his match and it was good, but then he did a promo and I was like, ‘Holy shit. This guy’s f*cking great. Where’s this guy been for 25 years of my wrestling career. Why do I not know this guy?’ So I kind of watched his stuff. I told him from [day one] ‘You are gonna be a huge babyface in this company.’ [Eddie’s like] ‘No I’m not [a babyface]’ I said ‘You’re babyface, just trust me.'”

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EC3 Responds To Velveteen Dream’s Cocaine Allegations

Jon Fuentes
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EC3 has issued a response to Velveteen Dream’s recent allegations of cocaine use.

As noted, Patrick Clark, formerly known as Velveteen Dream in WWE, took to social media and issued out a video response to EC3 claiming that Clark once hid a camera in his home bathroom.

In the video response, Clark claimed that EC3 was drunk at a party that he and several other professional wrestlers had attended. Clark admitted to leaving his phone in the bathroom, but but was not filming anybody.

Later in the video, Clark alleged that EC3 uses cocaine and told him to “get your sh*t together.” Clark has since removed the video from his Instagram, but it can still be viewed here.

EC Ring of Honor

EC3 Responds

Now, EC3 has come out and responded to Clark’s accusations. In a statement to PWInsider, he notes he has never failed a drug test and added that he forgives Clark for filming in his home bathroom.

Here’s the full statement:

“In life, I forgive everyone for everything that has been done to me. I personally have never failed a drug test from any employer, nor been arrested for drug usage, paraphernalia, assault, battery, or any inappropriate behavior.

“My forgiveness includes Patrick Clark for setting up a video recording device in the bathroom of my home. As far as any other accusations and allegations against him, I hope that he finds the help he needs.”

Top RAW Stars Set For SmackDown This Week (Report)

Jon Fuentes
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Damage CTRL are scheduled to attend Friday’s edition of WWE SmackDown from Anaheim, CA. The group is comprised of Women’s Tag team champions Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai, as well as team captain Bayley.

Now that Sky and Kai are the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions fans can expect to see them on both brands more often. It remains to be seen what WWE has planned for the tag team champions this weekend on SmackDown.

Thus far, the only match announced for the show is a Fatal 4-Way Tag Team match that will determine the new No. 1 contender for the Unified World Tag Team Championship. 

kai io bayley

The teams competing in that match are The New Day, The Street Profits, Alpha Academy and Los Lotharios. With that being said, the men and women’s tag team divisions will likely get a lot of shine this Friday.

SKY and Kai won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles this week on Monday Night RAW, defeating the now-former title holders Aliyah and Raquel Rodriguez. Perhaps a rematch will be taking place Friday night. We’ll keep you updated.

Claudio Castagnoli: Vince McMahon Was Wrong About My Charisma Criticisms

Jon Fuentes
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AEW star Claudio Castagnoli thinks Vince McMahon’s criticisms of his charisma during his WWE days were wrong.

Back in 2014, Vince McMahon was a guest on WWE Hall Of Famer Stone Cold Steve Austin’s podcast. During the podcast, McMahon talked on a number of big topics.

Two of the biggest stories that came out of that interview, where the firing of CM Punk, and some criticism McMahon had about Cesaro, now known as Claudio Castagnoli.

McMahon noted that he felt Cesaro was lacking charisma, verbal skills, and a connection with the audience. Many seemed to disagree with McMahon, including Castagnoli himself.

Claudio Castagnoli as the ROH champion

Speaking during an interview with Chris Van Vliet recently, Castagnoli offered his thoughts on his former boss’ comments.

“I thought he was wrong. Yeah, I feel that charisma comes in very different forms, shapes and sizes. Not everybody has that over-the-top Ultimate Warrior shaking the ropes and running around crazy, yelling and screaming charisma.

“Not that I’m sitting here telling you all how awesome my charisma is, but I felt like I had a connection with the fans, with the WWE Universe, whatever you want to call it, in the United States and all over the world.

“While other people were known for long promos that get translated into many other languages and doesn’t necessarily come across, mine was about the in-ring work and people can connect with that. It may take a bit longer, but I did connect with the fans and they were behind me.

“I don’t know if that was not what he was looking for, but the end effect brought me here and you get to see that.”

Castagnoli ran with WWE from 2011 to 2022. During that time, he had one run with the United States Title, five as RAW Tag Team Champion, and two as SmackDown Tag Team Champion. He also won the 2014 Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

Sadly, he never got the opportunity to hold a singles World Title despite many fans supporting him for such a push. Castagnoli would then debut with AEW in June of this year, and currently reigns as the Ring Of Honor (ROH) World Heavyweight Champion.

Quotes via 411Mania

Marty Jannetty Back In The Hospital

Jon Fuentes
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Former WWE star Marty Jannetty is back in the hospital.

Jannetty, a former WWE Intercontinental and Tag Team Champion, was initially hospitalized back in 2020 for ankle surgery. He had been dealing with related issues throughout his career, and claimed in 2021 those ankle issues had been fixed.

However, on September 12, Jannetty took to Facebook and revealed that he’s back in the hospital after his ankle became “slightly damaged.” The post includes a picture of his foot, which as a pretty bad scar on it.

Here’s what he had to say:

“I’m very proud to say that ankle right there it’s just slightly damaged from all them years of putting my foot in people’s rear end otherwise called ass and jumping off top ropes to the floor not just into the ring but to the floor and I’m very proud to say I’ll do it again right now I ain’t scared well wait a minute swaggy just looked at me and extended is claws which means don’t you even try oh well it was a fun thought,” Jannetty said.

marty jannetty

Jannetty has been competing in professional wrestling since 1983, signing with WWE in 1988. His run in WWE is better known for his tag team with WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels as The Rockers.

He left WWE in 1992, but re-signed with the company later that year before ultimately leaving the company again in 1994. Since, Jannetty has had several more runs with WWE, working for various other promotions in between.

The 62-year-old hasn’t competed in a singles match inside the ring since 2018 when he wrestled a match against Joey Janela.

Velveteen Dream Fires Back at EC3 With Cocaine Use Allegation

Thomas Lowson
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Former WWE NXT Superstar Velveteen Dream has had a lot of controversy to his name, but he is denying claims recently made by EC3.

Dream, real name Patrick Clark, was once considered a future big name in WWE, after impressing audiences in the 2015 season of Tough Enough.

In 2020, allegations were made that Clark had sent explicit photos to minors, and while he admitted the photos were of him, Clark claimed his phone had been hacked.

Despite a WWE-led investigation finding no wrongdoing by Clark, he was released in May 2021.

EC3

Earlier this month, Clark faced a new accusation, this one may be fellow NXT alum EC3.

Speaking to Sportskeeda, EC3 accused Clark of hiding his camera phone in a bathroom at a party hosted by the former Impact World Champion.

EC3 said that Clark filmed the genitals of guests, including wrestlers, without their consent, and Sean Ross Sapp later reported that this had been a long-standing rumor.

The Response

Patrick Clark is used to being on the receiving end of accusations and has now responded to the claims.

In an Instagram video, Clark claimed that EC3 was very drunk at the party, and was slumped in a corner.

Clark said that while he did leave his phone in the bathroom, it was not filming people, and that EC3 has falsely accused him of the act.

Clark claimed that EC3, who is “not friends, at all” with him, made the claim as he was unaware of Clark’s sexuality, due to the hedonistic persona of the Velveteen Dream character.

Clark went on to detail handing a mutual friend his phone, noting that he showed him the “recently deleted” section of his phone as well, to prove that he was not recording him.

The Accusation

After receiving plenty of accusations, Patrick Clark has made an accusation of his own against EC3.

In the same video, Clark claimed that EC3 uses cocaine and encouraged him to “get your sh*t together.”

Clark also claimed that despite EC3’s negative comments about him, the Control Your Narrative founder follows him on Instagram, which was true at the time of the video being published.

The video has since been removed from Instagram, but can be seen here:

Chris Jericho Clears the Record over Pizza Cutter Domino’s Controversy

Thomas Lowson
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In July 2021, Chris Jericho fought death-match veteran Nick Gage at the company’s Fight for the Fallen event, in a match that would go on to live in infamy.

Using staples of death-match wrestling, the bout saw the inclusion of panes of glass, baseball bats and light tubes, making it one of the most graphic AEW bouts in the promotion’s history.

The most infamous weapon in the match was a Pizza cutter, which Gage used to slice Jericho’s biceps and later on his forehead.

Clearing the Air

After the Pizza cutter was used, reports came out that many big names were furious at the spot being shown on TNT programming.

At the time, it was claimed that Domino’s had threatened to pull their advertising from all AEW shows, as the spot with the Pizza cutter aired during an ad for their deep-dish treats.

Speaking on the latest Talk is Jericho, the former AEW World Champion recalled the spot, and said that despite what was reported, nothing happened between AEW and the veteran pizza chain.

“So right when Nick is carving my forehead with the pizza cutter, there is a Domino’s Pizza commercial where the guy is cutting the pizza with what? A pizza cutter. Apparently, Domino’s was furious. [Everyone was] like ‘AEW’s gonna lose all their sponsors. This is it. This is the end of the line.’ Nothing ever happened.”

Jericho added that rather than be furious about the spot, Domino’s should have capitalised on a potential advertising idea.

“I was like ‘If I was the Domino’s guy I would have filmed a Chris Jericho – Nick gage commercial the next f*cking day.’ I mean it’s right there. Pizza cutters – Domino’s. They go hand in hand.”

It was later reported after the match that WWE had allegedly called wrestling media outlets, encouraging them to pick up the story.

Chris Jericho Discusses Cody Rhodes’ Decision To Never Challenge For AEW Title

Watch: What Happened With Bryan Danielson After Dynamite Went Off Air

Anutosh Bajpai
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AEW delivered another banger for the main event of this week’s episode of Dynamite. The match saw Bryan Danielson going up against Chris Jericho in the semi-finals of the tournament of champions.

At one point during this bout, Danielson got suplexed on the floor. The doctors checked on the AEW star after this spot and it looked like Bryan hurt his ankle.

The ending of the bout saw Bryan Danielson trying to roll up Chris Jericho. Jericho countered and hit a dragon screw on his opponent.

This allowed Y2J to put the Figure Four leglock but it didn’t last for long. Danielson transitioned it into the LeBell Lock. He forced the former AEW champion to submit to win the match.

After Bryan Danielson’s win, the other tournament finalist Jon Moxley came out and confronted the fellow BCC member. The show ended with the two shaking hands and exchanging words.

What Happened After Dynamite

While both Mox and Jericho went back to the locker room after this, Bryan Danielson took some time. The crowd applauded him as he got out of the ring.

Danielson stopped by the AEW world title that was at the ringside. He picked up the championship belt to a huge pop from the crowd.

The former WWE star re-placed the title before heading to the back. William Regal came forward to help him but Bryan declined the support. He went to the locker room on his own while selling the injury:

8 Takeaways From AEW Dynamite (9/14): Jon Moxley & Bryan Danielson, Tag Title Match, MJF Speaks

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired live from the MVP Arena in Albany, New York. Jon Moxley battled Sammy Guevara and Bryan Danielson faced Chris Jericho in the semifinals of the Tournament of Champions. The winners will square off next week at Dynamite Grand Slam in Arthur Ashe to crown the new AEW Champion,

Dynamite Results

  • Jon Moxley def. Sammy Guevara to advance to the finals of the AEW Tournament of Champions
  • Jungle Boy def. Jay Lethal
  • Swerve in our Glory def. Lucha Bros to retain the AEW Tag Team Championships
  • Britt Baker & Serena Deeb def. Toni Storm & Athena
  • Bryan Danielson def. Chris Jericho via submission to advance to the finals of the Tournament of Champions

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Jon Moxley Advanced To The Finals Of The AEW Title Tournament

Jon Moxley battled Sammy Guevara in the semifinals of the Tournament of Champions. Moxley controlled the action early and got Sammy in a headlock in the middle of the ring. Sammy escaped and the two traded chops. Guevara knocked Jon out of the ring and leveled him with a Suicide Dive. Sammy followed it up with a flip and blew a kiss to the camera before sending Jon into the steel steps. Guevara booted Jon into the steel steps again and posed against the barricade as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Jon took control of the match and bit Sammy in the face. Moxley followed it up with a Butterfly Suplex off the middle turnbuckle. Guevara went for a Boston Crab but Moxley escaped. Sammy connected with a springboard Cutter and went for the cover but Jon was able to kick out at two. Guevara went for the GTH but Moxley countered into the Bulldog Choke.

Jon unloaded some elbows to the face and went for a Clothesline but Sammy countered into an awesome Spanish Fly for a near fall. Sammy climbed to the top rope but Moxley hopped up and sent him to the canvas with a Belly to Back Suplex. Anna Jay and Tay Melo came to the ring for a distraction.

Tay booted Moxley in the groin and Sammy rolled Jon up for a two count. Sammy went for a Swanton Bomb but Jon got out of the way. Guevara went for the GTH but Moxley countered into the Deathrider for the pinfall victory. Jon Moxley has had advanced to the AEW Championship match next week. Dynamite went to commercial break with the announcers saying “MJF is causing a scene backstage”.

MJF Warned Jon Moxley

Maxwell Jacob Friedman’s music hit and the crowd popped. MJF told everyone in the crowd to shut up and they cheered anyway. MJF said he hasn’t slept since Jon Moxley’s promo last week and accused him of playing a character. MJF mocked how Moxley’s walk and brought up his book. Friedman said that Moxley was bullied as a child and it forced him to build a front.

He claimed that Jon is still that same poor little boy deep down and is old enough to drown his sorrows in alcohol. MJF gave Jon credit for overcoming alcoholism and said that his brain is better than Moxley’s disease. MJF suggested that Moxley take his vacation because the AEW Championship belongs to him. Maxwell said he’s a demon that Jon can’t slay. MJF noted that a “young group of gentlemen” helped him win the Casino Ladder match. MJF introduced the “first-ever stable on retainer” Stokely Hathaway and The Firm.

Stokely Hathaway & The Firm

Stokely said that everyone is about to hear some gospel. He stated that he flew from Orlando to New York City to talk to MJF while he was disenfranchised and wanted to leave All Elite Wrestling. Hathaway said that they are MJF’s support system, and they go they’re separate ways when Max doesn’t need them.

He added that he’s not a manager or a publicist, he’s a fried with connections to make anything happen. Stokely introduced Morrissey, Lee Moriarty, Gunn Club, Ethan Page as “The Firm”. He closed the promo by saying you have two options, run with them or run from them.

Jungle Boy def. Jay Lethal

Jay Lethal faced Jungle Boy tonight on Dynamite. The action started off back and forth before Satnam Singh interfered. Jay capitalized with a Backbreaker before Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Jay was still in control. Jungle Boy tried to battle back but his back gave out. Jay went for Lethal Injection but Jungle Boy escaped. Jungle Boy hit a Brainbuster and went for the cover but Lethal kicked out at two. Jay rolled Jungle Boy up but he kicked out at two. Jungle Boy then locked in the Snare Trap for the submission victory.

Swerve In Our Glory Retained The Tag Titles

Swerve in Our Glory defended the AEW Tag Team Championships against Lucha Bros tonight on AEW Dynamite. The action started out back and forth as Dynamite went to a break. Lucha Bros isolated Swerve in the ring but Keith Lee eventually got the tag. Penta hit Keith with a Destroyer for a near fall. Fenix climbed to the top turnbuckle but Strickland shoved him to the floor. Keith then planted Pentagon Jr. with a Powerslam for the pinfall victory.

After the match, The Acclaimed interrupted. Swerve in Our Glory will defend the AEW Tag Team Championships against The Acclaimed next week at Dynamite Grand Slam.

Orange Cassidy attacked All-Atlantic Champion PAC backstage. PAC will defend the title against Orange Cassidy next week on Dynamite.

Ricky Starks Isn’t Done With Powerhouse Hobbs

Powerhouse Hobbs battled enhancement talent (Matt DiMartino) and won in a matter of seconds after hitting a Spinebuster. After the match, Hobbs cut a promo and boasted about beating Ricky Starks in less than five minutes at All Out. Ricky Starks made his way through the crowd and attacked Hobbs. Ricky bashed Hobbs over the head with the microphone to knock him out of the ring.

AEW Women’s Title Match Announced For Next Week

Britt Baker & Serena Deeb battled Toni Storm & Athena in a tag team match tonight on Dynamite. The action started off back and forth. Toni went for a Crossbody but Serena rolled through. Serena locked in a Half Crab but Athena broke it up. Britt Baker hit Athena with a boot to the face and threw her out of the ring. Baker launched Athena into the steel steps as Toni and Deeb battled inside the ring.

Baker held up a steel chair and Deeb sent Toni into it as the referee was distracted. Serena pinned Toni for the pinfall victory. After the match, Athena attacked Deeb and Baker. Britt battled back and hit Athena with a Stomp. Britt grabbed the steel chair but Jamie Hayter rushed the ring. Jamie then bashed Toni Storm and in the midsection with the chair before arguing with Baker some more to end the segment.

Toni Storm will defend the AEW Interim World Championship vs. Serena Deeb , Britt Baker, and Athena next week on Dynamite.

Jon Moxley Will Face Bryan Danielson Next Week To Crown The New AEW Champion

Chris Jericho battled Bryan Danielson in the main event of this week’s Dynamite in the semifinals of the Tournament of Champions. The winner of the match will battle Jon Moxley next week to crown the new AEW Champion.

ROH Pure Champion Daniel Garcia was shown backstage watching the match as Danielson hit Jericho with a Dropkick that knocked him to the floor. Danielson followed it up with a knee strike off the ring apron and posed for the crowd. Back in the ring, Bryan connected with a Dropkick and climbed to the top rope. Danielson hit a flying headbutt and went for the cover but Jericho kicked out at two.

Bryan unloaded some Yes Kicks to the chest but Jericho responded with a release German Suplex. Chris knocked Danielson out of the ring with a springboard Dropkick and followed it up with a Crossbody. Le Champion rolled Danielson back into the ring and started smacking him in the face. Danielson responded with a flurry of chops and both men fell to the mat as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, Jericho connected with a Hurricanrana and geared up for the Judas Effect. Danielson ducked and connected with a German Suplex for a two count. Chris focused a lot of his attack on Danielson’s knee and got him in the Walls of Jericho in the middle of the ring.

Bryan escaped but Jericho locked in the Figure Four in the middle of the ring. Danielson and Jericho traded punches while the Figure Four was applied. Danielson escaped and applied the LeBell Lock on Jericho in the middle of the ring. Chris reached for the ropes but ultimately tapped out. Jon Moxley will face Bryan Danielson next week at AEW Dynamite Grand Slam to crown the new AEW Champion. Jon Moxley came down to the ring after the match as William Regal looked on. The two Blackpool Combat Club members shook hands to close the show.

AEW Executive’s Suspension Concludes, Backstage For Tonight’s Dynamite

Joey Galizia
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The biggest story in the world of pro-wrestling over the last two weeks has been the comments made by CM Punk at the AEW ALL OUT media scrum, and the backstage melee that ensued between the Second City Saint and The Elite. This led to a number of suspensions for both talent, and backstage executives who tried to stop the fight.

One of the suspensions was for VP of Talent Development Pat Buck. He missed last week’s AEW Dynamite in Buffalo, which was the first episode following the events of ALL OUT weekend. However, a new report has surfaced stating that Buck’s suspension is officially over.

According to PW Insider, Buck is backstage for this evening’s episode of AEW Dynamite from Albany. It was noted that Buck was integral in helping break the fight up between Punk and The Elite. A third-party investigation is still ongoing and will determine the future of Punk and his longtime friend Ace Steel.

Follow Sescoops for updates on the situation.

Stay tuned to WrestlingHeadlines.com for more.

Top Prospect Reportedly Under AEW Contract

Joey Galizia
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The AEW women’s division has been the subject of much criticism since they launched back in 2019, but the promotion has done a lot to improve that portion of their roster, which includes bringing in marquee names like Athena, Ruby Soho, and current interim champion Toni Storm, and utilizing some top prospects from the independent circuit.

One of those prospects is Skye Blue, who has been regularly featured on AEW programming for over a year now, mainly on episodes of their Youtube series Dark and Dark: Elevation, but occasionally on their flagship shows Dynamite and Rampage. She even wrestled in the Casino Battle Royal at ALL OUT 2021, and challenged Jade Cargill for the TBS championship last October.

What Kind Of Deal Is Skye Blue Under?

Skye Blue has yet to receive the official “All Elite” graphic from president Tony Khan on Twitter, but that doesn’t mean that she’s not under contract with AEW.

According to Fightful, Blue has signed an agreement to compete for the promotion, although it is uncertain whether it is full-time or some sort of tiered deal. The report adds that indie events that have tried to book Blue have to get approval from AEW First.

Blue, who is 22 and from Chicago, last competed on this week’s Dark where she scored a tag team victory.

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