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Ilja Dragunov Forced to Vacate WWE NXT UK Championship

Thomas Lowson
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WWE has a loaded roster right now, but several of the promotion’s top Superstars are currently on the injured list.

Cody Rhodes isn’t expected back for months after tearing his pectoral muscle just hours before the WWE Hell in a Cell Premium Live Event last month.

Randy Orton has been out of action for over a month now, while Rhea Ripley had to be pulled from a Raw Women’s Championship match due to a brain injury.

The Champion Vacates

Now, another WWE Superstar is out, and it has cost them their championship.

At the start of the latest NXT UK television tapings, NXT UK Champion Ilja Dragunov vacated the title due to an undisclosed injury.

Reports from the BT Studios in London, England note that Dragunov was spotted wearing a protective boot over one of his legs.

An eight-man tournament began during the tapings to crown a new champion with Tyler Bate, Trent Seven, Mark Coffey, and Oliver Carter all advancing to the next round.

Dragunov’s Reign

Dragunov’s reign marks the first time the NXT UK Championship has been vacated.

His title reign began in August 2021, ending the record-breaking 870-day reign of WALTER, now Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER.

Dragunov had six successful title defenses during his reign, retaining his title against A-Kid (Axiom), Jordan Devlin (JD McDonagh), Rampage Brown, Roderick Strong, and Nathan Frazier.

Ilja’s reign has ended at 320 days, making him the third-longest reigning NXT UK Champion.

WWE Board of Directors Member Resigns

Tyriece Simon
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WWE Board of Directors has lost a member as it continues its investigation of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon.

Last month, the Wall Street Journal reported that the Board of Directors was investigating WWE Chairman Vince McMahon for a secret 3 million dollar settlement with a former employee.

McMahon temporarily stepped down from his position while the Board of Directors continued their probe. However, since he stepped down, wrestling fans have wondered what the ramifications of the alleged settlement and investigation would be.

WWE shared today that Board of Directors member Connor Schell has resigned. While fans may speculate that this has to do with the company’s current issue with McMahon, WWE said it’s not the case.

“On July 6, 2022, Connor Schell resigned from the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (the “Company”), effective immediately.

“Mr. Schell resigned from the Board due to an increased slate of responsibilities resulting from his new, expanded role at the newly formed The North Road Company, a global, multi-genre content studio.

“Mr. Schell’s decision to resign from the Board was not due to any dispute or disagreement with the Company, its management or the Board on any matter relating to the Company’s operations, policies or practices.”

Vince McMahon
(via WWE)

What’s Next for Vince McMahon?

WWE is remaining silent on the process of McMahon’s investigation. Although he stepped down as Chairman, he has appeared on Monday Night Raw and Smackdown and remains at the helm creatively.

Wrestling fans attending the shows he showed up to have also cheered for him, so it doesn’t seem like he lost support.

It’s unclear what the outcome of the Board of Directors’ investigation of McMahon will be. Schell’s resignation could have nothing to do with McMahon’s situation.

However, with little information coming from the company, people quitting the company during these times are worth looking into.

Sasha Banks and Naomi Removed From WWE’s Internal Roster

Andrew Ravens
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There have been conflicting reports on the WWE status of Sasha Banks and Naomi. However, an update has come from PWinsider, reporting today that Banks and Naomi were removed from WWE’s Internal roster over the last 24 hours.

It was added that they had heard rumblings that Banks may be doing some signings outside of WWE this fall, but that is not confirmed. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cft11r0OVQ0/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

There were reports from Wrestling Inc. and WrestleVotes that Banks had been released. Dave Meltzer previously reported that Banks and her lawyers were still working on getting her release, but the release had not been granted.

Banks and Naomi walked out of a Monday Night Raw event this past May because of creative differences with Vince McMahon regarding a six-pack challenge on the show. The plan was for Naomi to challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Title while Banks was supposed to wrestle then-SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey at Hell in a Cell. 

WWE later announced that the two stars were indefinitely suspended and stripped of the Women’s Tag Team Titles. They later removed their merchandise from WWE Shop and their contracts were put on hold.

AEW Faction Officially Disbands

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Nothing lasts forever.

In the wrestling industry, factions don’t exactly come at a premium. The business has long relied on stables and some of them have achieved legendary status.

Others have been short-lived.

In this case, it was two teams coming together for a good time but not a long time.

The Gunns Turn on The Acclaimed

The Acclaimed Gunn Club

The Acclaimed and The Gunn Club had formed a fun stable together. Fans were entertained by Austin and Colten Gunn being called the “Ass Boys” but they never found it to be funny.

Things finally boiled over when The Gunns didn’t allow Max Caster to get in his entrance rap during the July 6 episode of Dynamite.

Austin also stole Caster’s thunder by tagging himself in after he had done all the work in their eight-man tag team match.

The teams brawled after the match when Billy Gunn initially appeared to reprimand his sons for their actions. Instead, he ended up attacking The Acclaimed.

There will be no more scissoring between Anthony Bowens and Daddy Gunn.

Major Champion Turns Heel on AEW Rampage (Spoilers)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A big heel turn has taken place at the AEW Rampage taping.

The heel-babyface turns in pro wrestling continue on. Fans recently witnessed Christian Cage turn his back on Jungle Boy, nailing him with the Killswitch and a Conchairto.

Add another turn to the list.

AEW Rampage was taped following the July 6 episode of Dynamite. The action was held inside the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY. At the conclusion of a tag team match, one major champion turned on his partner.

Jonathan Gresham Turns Heel

Jonathan Gresham
(via ROH)

On this week’s edition of Rampage, set to air on July 8, ROH World Champion Jonathan Gresham teamed with Lee Moriarty to take on Tully Blanchard’s Gates of Agony team.

The Gates of Agony won the match as Gresham walked out on Moriarty. He has now aligned himself with Tully Blanchard.

ROH’s Death Before Dishonor PPV is coming up on July 23.

While it hasn’t been made official, the direction certainly seems to be leaning towards an ROH World Title Match between Jonathan Gresham and Lee Moriarty.

Keep it locked on SEScoops for live coverage of ROH Death Before Dishonor on the event date.

Worrying Update About Top AEW Star

Thomas Lowson
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All Elite Wrestling has proven to be incredibly popular with fans, but the company is dealing with plenty of injuries at this time.

Former World Champion Kenny Omega is still out of action with his last match taking place at last year’s Full Gear, and reigning AEW World Champion CM Punk is also injured.

Recently, Tony Khan confirmed that Santana is injured and there’s a worrying update about one of the promotion’s biggest stars.

Danielson’s Update

Bryan Danielson is one of AEW’s top stars, but he too is dealing with an injury.

Danielson hasn’t competed since AEW Double or Nothing 2022, where the Blackpool Combat Club lost to the Jericho Appreciation Society in the Anarchy in the Arena match.

Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that there’s still no word on when Danielson could be cleared to wrestle.

“I know in real life and everything like that he’s fine, he can function, he can do everything. But as far as being cleared to wrestle, — no one knows – getting cleared from a concussion can be any time. There’s no timeframe.”

“no one knows – getting cleared from a concussion can be any time. There’s no timeframe.”

Dave Meltzer on Bryan Danielson’s injury.

Danielson’s injury forced him to miss Forbidden Door and the Blood and Guts match on the following Dynamite.

Danielson and Concussions

Danielson is out with a concussion, which has some fans worried given his history of concussions.

In 2014, a neck injury and concussion forced Danielson to vacate the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, and he retired two years later due to concussions.

In 2018, Danielson was cleared to wrestle again and returned at that year’s WrestleMania 34 Pay Per View.

AEW Stars Appear on WWE Raw to Salute John Cena

Buff Bagwell Addresses Recent Twitter Controversy

Thomas Lowson
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Like many wrestlers, Buff Bagwell has a Twitter profile that allows fans to keep up to date with the former WCW World Tag Team Champion.

This week though, Bagwell’s name was trending for all the wrong reasons as fans began criticizing some of the comments they have received from his account.

There were also issues raised by fans who say they purchased Buff Bagwell merchandise only to not receive it.

Bagwell’s Response

In a YouTube video, Bagwell addressed the situation head-on, saying that “a guy named Michael Long” has been operating his account.

Bagwell admitted that a lot of fans paid for “certain merchandise that they ordered” and apologized for this mistake.

He added that while fans paid, he did not see any of that money and plans on getting to the bottom of this.

Long reportedly also has a criminal record, according to Bagwell, which the wrestler said he was unaware of when hiring Long to the position in charge of his social media.

Bagwell also promised to deal with that situation on his own.

Addressing claims that he wasn’t tweeting a lot and it was mostly Long who tweeted on his behalf, Bagwell said that he and his team discuss things when he is away, but that he is still a huge part of his Twitter profile.

Nevertheless, Buff promised to be more “activated” with his online presence.

Bagwell finished the video, which can be viewed below, saying he plans on making sure controversies like these do not happen again.

Wrestling Entertainment Series Confirm Debut Show has been Canceled

Thomas Lowson
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Former WWE tag team the Authors of Pain had hoped their Wrestling Entertainment Series promotion would be the next big thing in the industry, but the company has had a rocky time so far.

After announcing a stacked card, including several former WWE Superstars, the company faced criticism from some wrestlers associated with the show, some of which were still featured on promotional materials after announcing that they wouldn’t be appearing.

This Saturday was meant to see WES’ debut show in Nottingham, England, but that’s no longer the case.

The Statement

In a statement, WES confirmed that the debut show at the Motorpoint Arena was no longer happening.

The promotion said they were “deeply disappointed” that the show would not go ahead as planned, and had some choice words about one member of the roster.

WES said that all wrestlers who were promoted for the show will be paid in full, including Lina Fanene (Nia Jax) who they said will be paid her deposit even after she “changed her mind and did not want to show up and wrestle anymore.”

The full statement can be read below.

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Mojo’s Response

One name who had not pulled out of the show is Mojo Rawley, who tweeted that it is “unfortunate” to see WES’ debut show be canceled.

Mojo added that while he won’t be wrestling, he will be doing a free meet and greet with fans who bought tickets to WES this Sunday.

Fans who did not purchase a ticket will have to pay for the meet and greet, though the former 24/7 Champion has promised that 100% of all money raised will go to the UK talent who have yet to be paid by WES.

Matthew Rehwoldt: ‘WES Has Cost Me Time & Money,’ Doesn’t Think Their Debut Show Will Happen

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

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The July 6 episode of AEW Dynamite is in the books and fans in attendance were treated to something extra just before the Rampage tapings.

There were two title matches on this edition of Dynamite, which was held inside the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY.

This week’s edition of Dynamite opened with a TNT Championship match between Scorpio Sky and Wardlow. Sky’s reign came to an end as Wardlow pinned him after hitting the Powerbomb Symphony.

In the main event, Jon Moxley put the interim AEW World Championship on the line against Brody King. Moxley kept his hold on the gold.

The Aftermath

Once the TBS broadcast ended, here is what transpired involving Jon Moxley, Brody King, Malakai Black, Sting, and Darby Allin (courtesy of SEScoops correspondent Ella Jay):

“Jon Moxley posed with his title belt up the ramp to be met by a nodding William Regal. Meanwhile still in the ring, the crowd chants ‘Brody’ as a sign of respect to Brody King.

“Malakai Black emerges, consoles Brody on his loss. Out comes Sting & Darby Allin, offering Brody a handshake as a show of respect for his performance. Brody refuses the handshake and leaves with Malakai.

“Allin & Sting pose for the crowd to appease Rochester.”

Ella Jay also recorded footage of the post-show activities:

Wardlow Crowned New AEW TNT Champion

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A major championship changed hands on the July 6 episode of AEW Dynamite.

This edition of AEW’s flagship show was held inside the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY. This is the home of the late Brodie Lee, so it was only fitting that this episode got started with a TNT Championship match.

It was Scorpio Sky putting the TNT gold on the line against Wardlow.

Wardlow Wins TNT Championship

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Sky tried pulling out all the tricks.

He, along with Dan Lambert, brought members of American Top Team with them for this Street Fight. In the end, it didn’t matter as Wardlow took everyone out and finished Sky off with the Powerbomb Symphony.

That’s right, Wardlow is the new TNT Champion.

Check out our exclusive footage of Wardlow’s AEW TNT Championship win:

Wardlow Wins the AEW TNT Championship

AEW Dark: Elevation Spoilers for July 11

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AEW Dark: Elevation has been taped for the July 11 edition.

The show took place ahead of the July 6 episode of Dynamite, which was held inside the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY. The show featured an interim AEW World Title match as well as a TBS Title match.

SEScoops provided you live coverage of the show throughout the night.

During the upcoming episode of Elevation, the likes of Best Friends, Anna Jay, Ethan Page, Dante Martin, and more were in action.

The following are spoilers from the July 11 episode of AEW Dark: Elevation (courtesy of SEScoops correspondent Ella Jay):

  • Emi Sakura defeats Paris Van Dale
  • Dante Martin defeats JD Drake
  • Julia Hart defeats JC Storm
  • Ethan Page defeats Colin Delaney
  • Anna Jay defeats Shawna Reed
  • Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Trent Beretta) defeats Aaron Solo & QT Marshall

AEW Dynamite Results (7/6/22): TNT Championship Street Fight, AEW Title Match, New Champion Crowned

Robert Lentini
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This week’s AEW Dynamite aired live from the Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial in Rochester, New York. In addition to the takeaways below, Claudio Castagnoli vs. Jake Hager was announced for Night 1 of AEW Fyter Fest next Wednesday.

Dynamite Results (7/6)

  • Wardlow def. Scorpio Sky in a Street Fight to become the new TNT Champion
  • Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland def. The Butcher & The Blade
  • Rush def. Pentagon Jr.
  • The Acclaimed & Gunn Club def. Ruffin It & Fuego Del Sol & Bear Country
  • Thunder Rosa def. Nyla Rose & Marina Shafir
  • Jon Moxley def. Brody King to retain the Interim AEW Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Wardlow Captured The TNT Championship

Scorpio Sky defended the TNT Championship against Wardlow in a Street Fight to begin this week’s episode of Dynamite. Ethan Page, Dan Lambert, and others accompanied Sky the ring.

Wardlow battled with Scorpio in the corner to start off the action. Sky hit Wardlow with a series of kicks but he shrugged them off and decked the TNT Champion with a massive shoulder tackle.

Sky booted Wardlow in the midsection and bounced off the ropes but Wardlow sent the champ flying across the ring. Wardlow launched Scorpio across the ring once again and posed for the crowd. The TNT Champion rolled out of the ring buy himself some time.

The challenger exited the ring and Dan Lambert and his goons distracted Wardlow and Scorpio Sky capitalized. Scorpio launched Wardlow into the steel steps and then they all stomped on him for a bit. Sky hit some knee strikes before applying a Headlock in the middle of the ring.

The TNT Champion controlled the action for a bit and kept Wardlow on the mat as Ethan Page cheered him on from outside the ring. Wardlow leveled Sky with a lariat and started shouting at Ethan Page. Sky capitalized with a rake to the eyes and booted unloaded some strikes in the corner.

Wardlow launched Scorpio to the turnbuckle and charged. The champ dodged Wardlow and the big man crashed into the ring post. Sky set up for a Superplex but Wardlow shoved him down. Wardlow climbed to the top turnbuckle and hit a massive Swanton Bomb as the crowd popped. He set up for a Powerbomb but Lambert’s goons rushed the ring.

He beat them down one by one before sending them all out of the ring. Scorpio Sky bashed Wardlow over the head with the title and went for the cover but somehow the challenger kicked out at two. Sky went for the TKO but Wardlow escaped. Wardlow knocked Lambert off the apron and planted Scorpio with a Spinebuster. Wardlow pointed at the title before planting Sky with a Powerbomb. The crowd chanted for more and Wardlow delivered two more Powerbombs for the pinfall victory. Wardlow is the new TNT Champion.

Christian Cage & Luchasaurus Attacked Matt Hardy

Christian Cage made his way to the ring with Luchasaurus tonight on Dynamite. Cage called the crowd “ignorant pieces of crap” before he was interrupted by Matt Hardy. Matt said Christian screwed Jungle Boy over and he didn’t deserve that. Christian made a reference to Jeff’s DUI and referred to Matt as the “sober one”. The crowd was shocked and started chanting “asshole!” at Cage.

Matt accused Christian of just using Luchasaurus now in order to make as much money as he possibly can. Cage noted that Matt needs his brother to remain relevant, and claimed that Matt turned a blind eye to his brother’s issues so The Hardys could have on final run. Cage and Luchasaurus then attacked Matt Hardy and beat him down. Luchasaurus delivered a big boot to Matt’s face and Cage instructed him to put Hardy through a table. Luchasaurus delivered a Chokeslam to Matt through a table and Cage taunted Hardy to end the segment.

Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland Picked Up A Win, Title Match Announced For Next Week, FTR Chants

Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland battled The Butcher and The Blade tonight on Dynamite. The Bunny was ringside for the match. Keith Lee ignored Strickland during their entrance. Strickland and Lee dominated the action early. Swerve completely botched a leapfrog attempt and barely jumped, which caused The Blade to run into him in a terrible sequence.

Strickland and Lee then beat The Blade down in the corner for a bit. The Blade hit a Jawbreaker but Strickland sent him out of the ring with a Back Body Drop. The Bunny hit Swerve with a cheap shot and Blade capitalized with a Backbreaker. The Butcher tagged in (with tassels on his boots now) and delivered a Leg Drop for a near fall.

Keith Lee tagged in and sent Butcher & Blade to opposite corners of the ring. The big man delivered a couple of Splashes before hurling Blade at Butcher. Lee charged but Blade pulled Strickland in the way. Lee sent Strickland flying across the ring. Butcher and Blade sent Lee to the outside and beat the hell out of Strickland. Butcher hit a massive lariat and had the match won but Keith Lee managed to break up the cover at two. Keith Lee and Swerve then hit a Powerbomb/Double Stomp combo for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Powerhouse Hobbs and FTW Champion Ricky Starks interrupted. They argued that they were the better tag team. AEW Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks interrupted and said that they started this damn company so they can do whatever they want. Matt and Nick Jackson suggested a Triple Threat match next week. The crowd loudly chanted “FTR!” as they’ve been ranked #1 on the AEW ranking system for an eternity without getting a shot at the AEW Tag Team Championships. Young Bucks claimed that they are better than FTR and the match was made official for next week at Night 1 of Fyter Fest.

Rush def. Pentagon Jr.

Pentagon Jr. battled Rush tonight on Dynamite. Before the match, Brodie Jr. and Dark Order had a segment with QT Marshall. The crowd loudly chanted “Brodie!. Dark Order got the better of QT during the segment.

The action started off back and forth. Penta hit a Superkick and tried to get the crowd going. Rush and Penta battled out of the ring and Penta hit an Arm Drag. Andrade El Idolo said some words to Rush outside the ring as Penta posed.

Penta went for a Suicide Dive but Rush caught him with an elbow to the face. Rush followed it up with a couple of Splashes in the corner and a Dropkick to the face. Penta hit a Slingblade and followed it up with a flip over the top rope. A brawl broke out ringside between everyone not involved in the match. Fenix and Andrade cheered the two managers on as they brawled. Back in the ring, Penta leaped off the top rope but Rush caught him with a Dropkick for a two count.

Rush connected with a German Suplex but Penta responded with a Backstabber. Rush battled back with a Powerslam. The action continued to be back and forth for several minutes. Rush leveled Penta with a massive Dropkick off the top rope but he still kicked out at two. Rush climbed to the top turnbuckle and hit a Senton for another near fall.

Penta connected with a Cutter and followed it up with a Piledriver. Pentagon Jr. went for the cover but Andrade El Idolo pulled Rush’s foot to the ropes. Rush ripped off the mask then rolled up Penta for the pinfall victory as Rey Fenix flipped out ringside.

Gunn Club Betrayed The Acclaimed, Jericho Appreciation Society Attacked

The Acclaimed and Gunn Club won a tag team match against Ruffin It & Fuego Del Sol & Bear Country. It was a quick one and after the victory, Gunn attacked The Acclaimed. Billy Gunn leveled Max Caster with a lariat. Billy then hit Anthony Bowens with the Fameasser and posed with his sons to end the segment.

Eddie Kingston was set to be interviewed in the ring but was quickly interrupted by JAS on the big screen. Tay Conti then slammed Ruby Soho’s arm in a car door.

Thunder Storm Picked Up A Win, FTR Challenges The Briscoes At ROH Death Before Dishonor

Toni Storm and Thunder Rosa faced Nyla Rose and Marina Shafir tonight on Dynamite. “Thunderstorm” dominated the action early and beat Shafir down in the corner. Marina connected with a slam on Toni and tagged in Nyla. Rose planted Storm with a couple of Suplexes for a two count.

Shafir tagged in and focused her attack on Toni’s leg. Nyla tagged back in and stomped on Storm’s ribs. Rose connected with a Splash and went for the cover but Storm kicked out at two. Toni went for a Sleeper Hold but Nyla threw her down. Thunder Rosa tagged in and hit Rose with a Crossbody.

Thunder Rosa booted Shafir off the ring apron and unloaded some strikes on Nyla. The AEW Women’s Champion stomped Rose down to the mat and delivered a Dropkick. Rosa followed up with another one and went for a third but Nyla countered with a Uranage. Marina tagged in and hit a slam for two count. Toni hit Nyla with a DDT and then planted Shafir with a German Suplex. Storm hit Marina with a Hip Attack in the corner. ThunderStorm then planted Shafir with a Piledriver for the pinfall victory.

FTR cut a backstage promo and challenged The Briscoes at ROH Death Before Dishonor on July 23.

Jon Moxley Retained The Interim AEW Title

Jon Moxley defended the Interim AEW Championship against Brody King in this week’s main event. Brody and Moxley traded punches to start off the title match. Moxley and Brody battled out of the ring to start off the match. Brody took control and rolled Jon back inside the ring.

Moxley hit a Dropkick and followed it up with a Dragon Screw. Jon locked in a Figure Four in the middle of the ring but King broke free. Brody connected with a Bossman Slam for a near fall and Jon rolled to the apron. King hit a shoulder tackle that knocked the champion to the floor.

Brody King dominated the next few minutes of the match and beat Moxley down. King caught the champ with a chop to the chest and Jon fell to the mat. Moxley battled back and started stomping on Brody’s head. Moxley and King traded forearm strikes in the middle of the ring. King got the better of the exchange and leveled Jon with a Clothesline. Brody followed it up with a Piledriver and went for the cover but Moxley kicked out at two.

King locked in a choke hold on the top rope before dropping Jon to the canvas. Brody hit a massive Cannonball Senton in the corner and went for the cover but Jon powered out at two. Jon went for a Sleeper but Brody broke free by falling backwards. Moxley transitioned into the Bulldog Choke and Brody went to sleep. Moxley remains the Interim AEW Champion.

AEW Talent Blasts MJF’s “Unacceptable” Behavior

Joey Galizia
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One of AEW’s biggest success stories has been the rise of Wardlow, who will challenge Scorpio Sky for the TNT championship on this evening’s edition of Dynamite.

Mr. Mayhem’s journey towards being a babyface superstar went through the path of the company’s top heel, MJF. For years Wardlow acted as the Salt of the Earth’s muscle until he eventually turned and vanquished his former boss at Double or Nothing back in May.

However, Wardlow’s momentum would play second fiddle to the controversy caused by MJF, who for months had been butting heads with AEW President Tony Khan, which culminated in MJF begging for his boss to fire him during AEW’s debut show in Los Angeles. He has not been seen since.

Wardlow spoke about the MJF drama on the latest edition of the Wrestling Classic. The War Pig begins by saying he doesn’t even really want to discuss the issue, but feels like he has grounds to say something considering how much time he spent with the man.

“Honestly, I shouldn’t even give this subject the time of day, and I really don’t care to, but I do understand — people gotta understand, we were together for three years. He was the first three years of my career, he was a big part of my career. So if anybody is allowed to touch on this subject, it probably is me.”

Wardlow would then tear into MJF, calling him a horrible person and fitting of the character he portrays on-screen.

“I’ll just say this, he’s not a good person. He really is a piece of shit. It was not enjoyable working with him. He put me through more stress than anything and his behavior inside of the business and outside of the business is unacceptable. But that’s all I’m gonna say about that.”

There have been multiple sources speculating that perhaps the entire fiasco is an elaborate work, though it would be hard to see who it would benefit.

(Quotes via Fightful)

Money In The Bank Was a Big Success for WWE

Andrew Ravens
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This year’s WWE Money in the Bank was a memorable night with several notable moments. It was also successful for the company. 

Fightful Select posted a backstage update on last Saturday’s event in Las Vegas as an internal document that has been making the rounds in the company to executives to tout the event’s success.

The memo noted the event was the “most-viewed” Money in the Bank show in history and drew the second-highest gate in the event’s history.

Merchandise sold at the show is said to have increased 95 percent from last year’s Money in the Bank show, which was previously the highest-selling merchandise for the event.

The event didn’t start to a strong start, as it was originally announced at Allegiant Stadium. After weak ticket sales, WWE pivoted and moved the show to the MGM Grand Garden Arena. After moving to the arena, the event sold around 12,000 tickets.

The event featured three championship matches and the two traditional Money in the Bank ladder matches for both men and women. Theory won the men’s bout while Liv Morgan won the women’s match and later cashed in to win the SmackDown Women’s Championship from Ronda Rousey. 

Buff Bagwell’s Twitter Run By a Third Party

Steve Fall
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Former WCW wrestler Buff Bagwell recently spoke with SEScoops correspondent Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston about if he is the one running his twitter account.

It turns out Buff was never running his account.

Steve Fall asked “I just want a simple yes or no and you can add a little bit, people say you don’t run your twitter account.”

Buff replied with “Not true……I don’t even get everyone. I don’t understand…. they actually came up with I got Diamond Dallas Page to run it ….. like Dallas Page has time to run my twitter account.”

Adam Scherr Buff Bagwell.jpg.optimal

“I had the fight with Strowman….. yeah even Dallas goes you know I know we have some guys help us and stuff I know you’re doing uh most of your stuff if not all he said, but I knew you said this and he was talking about part of the Strowman apologizing to me… Uncle Buff baby.”

Don’t Expect AEW Star to Return Anytime Soon

Thomas Lowson
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AEW has been plagued with injuries over the past month, with several stars being taken out of action.

AEW World Champion CM Punk announced his injury just days after he captured the title from ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, and Bryan Danielson is also said to have suffered an injury and hasn’t wrestled in over a month.

Former World Champion Kenny Omega continues to be away recovering from surgery after dealing with multiple injuries, and now another star is out of commission.

Santana injured

During the recent Blood and Guts match, Santana competed and had a spot that didn’t go according to plan.

Santana had an awkward uranage spot with Daniel Garcia mere minutes after he entered the double cage, which led many to believe Santana is injured.

While speaking on Busted Open Radio, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the news that Santana is injured, saying it “could be a relatively long injury.” 

Khan added that he spoke to Santana after Blood & Guts, ensuring the wrestler that the company will stand by him throughout his recovery.

Khan gave no specific time window as to when Santana will be back in the ring.

His previous injury

This is a bad time for Santana, but not the first time he’s had to deal with an injury.

In May 2019, while working for Impact Wrestling, Santana suffered a stage two tear in his MCL.

Santana was cleared to wrestle that same month, but would finish up with Impact in early August, and debuted for AEW at All Out on August 31.

Latest on the Creative Team for WWE NXT 2.0

Thomas Lowson
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0

Last September, WWE NXT underwent its biggest change in close to a decade, being revamped into NXT 2.0.

The revamp saw a huge change to the roster, with stars like Bron Breakker and Joe Gacy thrust into the spotlight, while established names including Bronson Reed and Bobby Fish were cut.

It wasn’t just the roster that was changed however, as the power dynamics behind the scenes altered drastically.

Vince McMahon took over the reins of the brand from his son-in-law Triple H, a decision that fans were vehemently opposed to.

The Current Creative Team

It was recently reported that Triple H has returned to full-time duties with WWE, following his cardiac event last September that forced him to retire as an in-ring Superstar.

Given Triple H’s association with WWE NXT, many believed that this is a sign that the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion is back in charge of the revamped brand.

According to PW Insider, that isn’t the case, as the creative team still reports to Bruce Prichard, who was brought to NXT by Vince McMahon during the September relaunch.

Johnny Russo is serving as head writer, working with others including Nick Bonnano.

George Carroll has also returned to WWE to serve as part of the creative team for NXT, after being released from the company in January this year.

Major NXT Championship Changes Hands at The Great American Bash

Read Paige’s Emotional Goodbye Letter Ahead of WWE Departure

Thomas Lowson
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The WWE locker room is brimming with talent, but the company is about to lose one of their most-established stars.

Paige’s contract will expire tomorrow, July 7, bringing an end to her lengthy run in WWE.

The former Divas Champion has said that this was not her decision, but that WWE has chosen not to renew her contract with the company.

Paige’s Letter

In an emotional letter, Paige said that fans can call her Saraya now, as this is her real name, and what she will be working as from now on.

While Saraya has made it clear she would rather stay with WWE, she has come to terms with her departure tomorrow and is pleased with what she has accomplished.

“I’ve known this moment would be coming for a while, but it almost didn’t seem real. Now that it is real, though, I’m just overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Saraya.

Saraya also spoke about several issues outside the ring, including her neck injuries, her Wellness Policy violations, and a sex tape being leaked.

“I became less of an asset to WWE, and more of a liability, for a long time. I’m sure of it. But they never lost faith in me.”

Saraya

The former Divas Champion also appreciated being given a segment for her retirement speech, saying it meant a lot that she was being treated the same as Edge and Daniel Bryan, who had similar segments in 2011 and 2016.

Saraya (Paige) is now a free agent and no longer with WWE.

Saraya concluded by speaking of interim WWE CEO and Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon who comforted her during a battle of anxiety ahead of her on-screen return in 2017.

“she [Stephanie] just held me for a minute. She gave me the biggest, longest hug. And she said, “Hey — everyone out there loves you. They’re going to be excited to see you. You want to know why? Because you’re a survivor

Saraya.

You can read the entire letter by clicking the link here.

Paige Books First Post-WWE Appearance

Logan Paul Brings Massive Potential for WWE

Scott Fishman
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When news broke that Logan Paul signed with WWE there was the usual response. You know. The one where certain fans have that knee-jerk reaction of, “Here comes _____insert celebrity___ to collect their payday.”

They can’t stand when someone, an “outsider,” comes into the pro wrestling world to take up television time or a spot from someone else. The common response has become a “one size fits all.”  In actuality, it has been a mixed bag. 

Mr. T may have not been the easiest to work with for the likes of Roddy Piper, but boy did it create big business in the 1980s. His involvement helped put WrestleMania on the map. Even Lawrence Taylor put on a stellar performance against Bam Bam Bigelow in the main event at WrestleMania 11 no less. Dennis Rodman helped take WCW and the nWo further into the mainstream through his involvement. 

Over the years WWE Hall of Famer Mike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather, Kevin Greene, and countless others could be credited for a positive uptick. Along with Paul,  Bad Bunny, and Johnny Knoxville are among notable recent successes. You can even mark MMA legends Ken Shamrock and Ronda Rousey in that upper echelon of seamless crossovers.

Celebrities who excel in pro wrestling

Usually, those who tend to do well come in humble with a willing-to-learn attitude. They genuinely wanted to pick up each facet of this unique form of sports and entertainment.  

Of course, there was Jay Lenos, Drew Careys, and Kevin Federlines. Though even not-so-good outings, the one constant remained. Drawing new eyes to the product The pro wrestling fan base tends to live in a bubble without thinking big picture.

Bunny merch was right up there in top merch sellers during his run. Whether you like Paul or not, he brings buzz and a massive social media following. And in 2022 that’s prime currency. 

The 27-year-old also looks seemingly committed to putting in the work. That was evident at WrestleMania 38 where he teamed with The Miz against the Mysterios and impressed a global audience. Yes, Miz and Rey Mysterio are veterans who know how to elevate opponents, but Paul also brought athletic ability and somewhat of a fighting background. He has done some serious training. The viral YouTube star demonstrated how to work an audience working alongside true pros in Sami Zayne and Kevin Owens.

There is a clear interest in Paul joining WWE. His name trended on Twitter while his image became the most liked photo on Instagram in company history. It’s a good start, but wrestling fans are hard to please. The keyboard warriors, the trolls that lurk on Twitter and the like. Paul is used to managing the social media waters. But pro wrestling has proven to be its own animal that can’t be put in one category or box. 

His first test comes in a program with The Miz. Someone who came into WWE from Real World notoriety, which put a similar target as Paul will experience on a certain scale. Through unwavering determination, Miz changed many detractors’ minds and clawed for every accolade. Paul is going to have to do the same.

We’ll see what happens heading into SummerSlam. Whether he excels or has a run that goes up in flames, one thing is for sure. People will be watching. 

WWE SummerSlam 2022 Preview

Marko Stunt Talks AEW Hiring Former WWE Talent Becoming a “Waterfall Effect”

Steve Fall
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Former AEW wrestler Marko Stunt recently spoke with SEScoops correspondent Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston about original AEW talent being pushed out for WWE free agents.

punk bryan

“I think that there was a point where they got a taste of what that star power could do…. you know and you know it’s kind of like a drug I guess in a way you you get a little bit and you’re like ooh that felt good that was nice let’s let’s let’s get a little more in here so it just starts waterfalling and waterfalling ….. you’re like oh this guy’s not there anymore let’s bring him in and so that’s kind of where it got you and like it wasn’t that bad when I was like being weaned out, but uh it definitely uh got that way it’s definitely more that way now it feels like.”

Gerald Brisco Details Vince McMahon & Brock Lesnar’s First Meeting

Jon Fuentes
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Gerald Brisco has shared some details on the first-ever meeting between Vince McMahon and Brock Lesnar.

Brisco was recently interviewed by Sportskeeda where he detailed the meeting between the three, where McMahon was extremely impressed with the former NCAA Division I Heavyweight Champion.

Lesnar’s physical appearance certainly impressed McMahon, but it was his determination in his voice that also seemed to get “The Chairman Of The Board” excited about the potential of “The Beast.”

“We’re at a PPV. Brock has on one of those tight T-shirts for that pull real tight and his bicep looks huge. Vince can’t resist a good bicep. All of a sudden, he (Vince) stopped in his tracks, walks over to Brock, and shakes his hand.

“Vince said, ‘’Young man, congratulations on winning the national championship. Are you ready for showbiz?’ Brock Lesnar looked him right in the eye and said, ‘I’ve been ready all my life.’ What an answer to give the boss. I see that smile come on Vince. That really showed Vince that this guy is ready to do this and wants to do this,” Brisco said.

In terms of financials, Lesnar’s asking price was high. So high, in fact, that Brisco claims that WWE’s budget guy would complain that signing Lesnar would kill their entire developmental budget.

Brisco was of the belief that it was worth the investment, recognizing that Lesnar is a once in a generation talent. As it turns out, he was right.

“Vince and I got together and he said. ‘What’s it going to take?’ I said, ‘I don’t know. That’s J.R.’s department. I got the guy here, now you guys do your job.’ There was resistance. I know Brock was asking for a lot of money. Looking back, it seemed kind of silly with the numbers. I mean, he’s just looking for a six figure number to sign on.

“I would get complaints from the budget guy that this guy is going to kill our entire developmental budget with one guy. I kept telling him, ‘He’ll make you more money than that. Overlook this one year. This guy is one of those guys that comes along once in a lifetime’, and sure enough he was.

“So they threw all that stuff aside and said, ‘Okay, let’s figure out what it’s going to cost and how we can manipulate it into our budget.’ They figured that out and they finally came to an agreement with Brock. It was probably a two or three month negotiation period back and forth.”

Since signing with WWE, Lesnar has become one of the company’s biggest names of all time. He’s a 10-time World Champion, a King Of The Ring winner, a Money In The Bank Winner, and a two-time Royal Rumble winner.

He’s currently slated to challenge Roman Reigns for the WWE Undisputed Title at SummerSlam.

Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

Bully Ray: Liv Morgan Was ‘Playing a Pro Wrestler’ In Recent Promo

Jon Fuentes
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WWE Hall Of Famer Bully Ray wasn’t a fan of SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan’s recent promo.

Ray recently took to his radio show, “Busted Open Radio,” to offer his thoughts on Morgan’s promo this week after winning the SmackDown Live Women’s Title when she cashed in her Money In The Bank briefcase on Ronda Rousey shortly after winning it.

The Hall Of Famer noted that he feels like the support from the fans has died down a bit behind Morgan, and her prom felt like “somebody who’s playing a pro wrestler as opposed to being a pro wrestler.”

“I didn’t think it was a strong promo from her. But I will say this, the people were behind her, at first, but then it started to trail off a bit.

“I believe she was trying to memorize a promo last night – they’re never going to hand Liv Morgan a microphone and say, ‘Here’s five minutes, go say whatever the hell you want to say.’ Unfortunately, when I hear Liv talk last night, I feel like I’m watching somebody who’s playing a pro wrestler as opposed to being a pro wrestler.

“This whole, ‘We did it guys, if it wasn’t for you guys, you guys got me all the way through,’ it’s uber babyface, chase-the-hug stuff and I understand why they do it. But, I want to see Liv come out there and stand on her own two feet – verbally and physically.”

It remains to be seen what’s next for Morgan after winning the SmackDown Live Women’s Title. A program with Natalya was teased on Monday Night RAW, however, it’s also expected that Morgan gives Rousey her rematch, likely at SummerSlam.

Things should become a bit more clear on this week’s episode of SmackDown Live this Friday.

Quotes via Wrestle Talk

Top WWE Superstar Could Miss Another Premium Live Event

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A major player for WWE may not be on the docket for one of its premium live events.

The wrestling business has certainly had its share of circumstances that haven’t been ideal this year. There have been a slew of injuries impacting top promotions such as WWE and AEW.

Some top performers also haven’t been around often due to reduced schedules.

For this top superstar, in particular, he may be missing out on a key event set to take place in a few months.

Roman Reigns Missing Extreme Rules?

Roman Reigns1
(via WWE)

The poster for Extreme Rules has been released and the current WWE Undisputed Universal Champion Roman Reigns is nowhere to be seen. This doesn’t serve as a confirmation of his absence but it certainly isn’t a good sign.

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Reigns inked a new deal with WWE that sees him work fewer dates. While some thought the “Tribal Chief” would only be reducing his house show schedule, he has been MIA for many TV shows and he wasn’t present at the Money in the Bank premium live event.

A report from WrestleVotes claims that when the decision was made to unify the world titles with Reigns as the champion, the belief was that it would allow the “Head of the Table” to make more appearances on Raw and SmackDown.

So much for that.

Reigns is scheduled to appear on the July 8 episode of Friday Night SmackDown. He will put his gold on the line against Brock Lesnar at WWE SummerSlam on July 30 in Nashville.

That title match will be contested under Last Man Standing rules.

Major WWE Superstar Set to Return on SmackDown This Week

Fantasy Booking: CM Punk Crosses Paths With The Blackpool Combat Club

Mike Chin
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The Blackpool Combat Club has become a real favorite among AEW fans. The faction features some of the company’s best-liked stars in Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, and most recently Claudio Castagnoli, not to mention up and comer Wheeler Yuta, and the foundation of William Regal standing in their corner. Together, they tap into a combination of a hard-nosed but technically sound style, real life bonds, and an undeniable cool factor.

Now that Moxley reigns as interim AEW Champion, it feels like only a matter of time before CM Punk will clash with him to decide an undisputed champ after he returns from injury. Might that be the gateway, though, to a much longer story in which Punk crosses paths with the other members of Mox’s faction?

Punk Defeats Moxley in the AEW Championship Unification Match

AEW Champion Jon

When CM Punk returns from injury, it stands to reason that he would win a title unification match over whomever reigns as the interim champ. After all, Punk was a major score for AEW to sign in the first place, and every indication is that Tony Khan wholeheartedly believes in him as a standard-bearer for the company. So, we can expect Punk to pick up where he left off when he is able to return to action.

It’s hard to predict where creative will go in the months ahead, and, all the more so, recent months have demonstrated that fans can’t take anything for granted when it comes to wrestling injuries. If he stays healthy and there aren’t major creative shifts, though, it seems likely Jon Moxley will hold the interim title until he can face Punk.

Rather than a one-off confrontation between Punk and Mox for who gets to call himself champion, it be a multi-match feud, and also the starting point for Punk fighting his way through more of The Blackpool Combat Club.

CM Punk Successfully Defends The AEW Championship Against Bryan Danielson

AEW Bryan Danielson

Since CM Punk and Bryan Danielson both arrived in AEW in late summer 2021, it became an instant dream scenario that the two might reprise the classics they previously put on together in ROH and WWE rings.

Danielson worked in the AEW Championship picture immediately upon his debut, challenging Kenny Omega and Hangman Page, while Punk bided his time, getting the ring rust off before he had his first title opportunity at Double or Nothing.

Moving forward, Danielson is the kind of talent who will never feel out of place in a main event scenario, and there’s every potential for him to put on a classic against Punk in one of his first major AEW Championship defenses. Adding on some ongoing animosity between Punk and the stable Danielson and Jon Moxley have been such an integral part of would only enrich their issue.

CM Punk Passes The Torch, Dropping The AEW Championship To Claudio Castagnoli

AEW Claudio Castagnoli

CM Punk worked his WWE debut opposite Darby Allin and went onto PPV feuds opposite Eddie Kingston, MJF, and Hangman Page—each less established stars who more than held their own, but also benefited from the rub of feuding with Punk.

In facing Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson, Punk would be taking a step away from this trajectory, working fellow WWE alumni and wrestlers who have won world titles in their pasts. Punk can get back to giving back to the business in a feud with Claudio Castagnoli to wrap up his engagement with The Blackpool Combat Club.

There remains an open questions whether talents who defect from WWE to AEW are better off. Christian Cage, Toni Storm, Keith Lee, Miro, Samoa Joe, Ruby Soho, and others are among the big names who remain in a gray area of making a big splash when they arrive, and then moving into the background.

Castagnoli could wind up being the case to prove AEW’s willingness and ability to elevate underappreciated talents. He’s long overdue to be booked as a top guy, and it would make a major statement for him to get a legit main event push and world title reign after beating Punk in the classic match this duo is more than capable of putting together.

There’s no shortage of great promos, storylines, and matches awaiting CM Punk opposite The Blackpool Combat Club in the months to come. It could be a testament to the faction, Punk, and AEW on the whole to see their collaborative effort ultimately elevate the uber-talented Claudio Castagnoli to new career heights.

Shotzi Explains Why She Deleted Twitter Account

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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WWE SmackDown superstar Shotzi has given an explanation for deleting her Twitter account.

After performing in the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match, Shotzi received some brutal remarks over struggling at certain spots. These comments went beyond fair criticism.

Some reminded the SmackDown talent that she had poked fun at Chris Jericho’s infamous crashpad spot at the conclusion of AEW’s Blood & Guts match back in 2021.

At the time, Shotzi insisted that she was simply making a joke and she thought the match Jericho had been in was great.

What seemingly drove Shotzi to delete her Twitter account, however, were people calling for her to be fired over a few botched spots.

Shotzi Speaks Out

Shotzi Liv Morgan
(via WWE)

Shotzi took to her Instagram Stories to break her silence on deleting her Twitter account. She said that simply put, all the negativity wasn’t doing her mental health any good.

“I appreciate everyone checking on me but I swear I’m fine. I have been going through the toughest year of my personal life so it’s deeper than nasty comments, but also Twitter has not helped with my already fragile mind state. Just trying to stay motivated and positive. I am focused on my goals and not what’s on the internet.”

Shotzi on leaving Twitter

The good news from that statement is that Shotzi is doing well. Perhaps removing herself from the cesspool that is Twitter will do her some good.

Despite having an off night at MITB, Shotzi was still very over in the match as the crowd cheered every time she went to climb up the ladder.

Despite the botches, Shotzi has made it clear that she’s willing to sacrifice her body for fans’ entertainment.

WWE Star Fires Back At Critics Over Money In The Bank Botch
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