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Vince McMahon’s WWE Departure Officially Listed as Resignation

To the surprise of pretty much no one, there’s more to Vince McMahon’s retirement than age.

Just hours before the July 22 episode of WWE SmackDown went off the air, it was announced that Vince has retired. The wording of the statement left some to believe that McMahon could possibly retain his role on the creative team but that isn’t the case.

While Vince remains the majority shareholder, he is completely gone as an executive from the company.

While McMahon is 77 years old and many believe this move was long overdue, his retirement didn’t come about because he felt he had done all he needed to do.

Vince McMahon Resigned

In an 8-K report, which is a required company filing to the SEC, Vince McMahon’s departure from WWE is officially listed as a resignation.

The news shouldn’t come as a surprise. Vince McMahon was in hot water after The Wall Street Journal uncovered Vince’s alleged million-dollar pacts with former female employees over the course of 16 years.

While many felt that McMahon was bulletproof, you simply can’t get away with this kind of stuff in 2022 and beyond.

Stephanie McMahon is now the full-time Chairwoman and shares the CEO title with Nick Khan. WWE has also informed reporters that Triple H is now positioned as the Head of Creative.

Triple H Takes Over WWE Creative

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WWE executive Paul Levesque (Triple H) has assumed “all responsibilities related to WWE’s creative,” the company announced Monday morning.

Vince McMahon’s retirement on Friday has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling world. It’s led to a significant shakeup to WWE’s management structure, with Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan serving as co-CEO’s.

Prior to the Vince retirement announcement, WWE announced Levesque was appointed as the new head of Talent Relations. In a press release about his new role, Levesque stated,

“I look forward to returning to my prior position as head of Talent Relations. I’m healthy, fired up, and ready to take charge.”

Triple H Assumes Control of WWE Creative

In a press release sent out Monday morning, WWE and its Board of Directors addressed the updated management structure:

WWE & BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNOUNCE NEW CO-CEOS STEPHANIE MCMAHON AND NICK KHAN

WWE (NYSE: WWE) and its Board of Directors today announced the appointment of Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan as co-Chief Executive Officers. Ms. McMahon has also been appointed Chairwoman of the Board, and Mr. Khan will continue to serve as a member of the Board. These appointments follow Vince McMahon’s retirement announcement on Friday, July 22.

We are grateful for the opportunity to lead WWE together with our unmatched management team,” said Ms. McMahon and Mr. Khan. “We recognize this is a tremendous opportunity and responsibility, and we look forward to serving the WWE Universe.”

Additionally, WWE executive Paul Levesque will assume all responsibilities related to WWE’s creative, in addition to his regular duties."

Monday’sRaw will be the first broadcast under the new creative regime headed by Paul Levesque.

WWE Returns to MSG Tonight Without Vince McMahon

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Tonight’s edition of WWE Monday Night Raw takes place from Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In addition to being the “go home” broadcast before Saturday’s SummerSlam event, it will be a historic night for other reasons. This marks the first episode of Monday Night Raw since Vince McMahon retired on Friday.

Raw from MSG sold out several days ago, so a packed house will be on hand for what’s sure to be an eventful evening.

Raw Preview (7/25/22)

WWE is advertising the following items for tonight’s Raw:

  • Roman Reigns and The Bloodline will be on hand.
  • Rey Mysterio celebrates the 20-year anniversary of his WWE debut. His first WWE match took place at SummerSlam 2002.
  • Rey and Dominik Mysterio team up against The Judgement Day’s Finn Balor and Damien Priest
  • Logan Paul will appear to hype his match against The Miz at SummerSlam.

Join us here tonight for our WWE Raw Results and Live Discussion.

After the show, stay tuned for Steve Fall’s weekly Going Red video series powered by the SEScoops YouTube Channel.

New Details on Shane McMahon’s Controversial Conduct at the Royal Rumble

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Earlier this year, Shane McMahon received backlash for his conduct behind the scenes at the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

Prior to his surprise return at the event (video below), Shane used his influence to make significant changes to the Rumble match, including booking himself stronger over established talent.

Along with that, there were reports that Shane was reportedly acting “unprofessional” at the even, and had even ticked off Brock Lesnar, who went on to win the Rumble.

A new report from Fightful provides new details surrounding the fallout between Shane McMahon and Vince McMahon stemming from the Royal Rumble incident.

Shane McMahon at the Royal Rumble

Brock Lesnar was said to be very displeased with Shane’s adjustments, so much so that it caught the eye of Vince, who called it the end of the for Shane. As expected it was Vince who made the decision to part-ways with his son, with one source telling the publication that Vince even went as far to say that “Shane would never get another pop in WWE” as long as he was still in charge.

The belief is that Vince was just angry in the moment when he made that declaration and that things could eventually be patched up, but those close to the situation believe that Vince was justified due to Shane’s aforementioned behavior and “unjust” decision making.

Vince McMahon retired just a few days ago, but already, there is a feeling that talent is feeling more comfortable to share information like this Shane McMahon story.

Tully Blanchard Essentially Done With AEW-ROH

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During Friday’s episode of AEW Rampage, it was announced that Tully Blanchard Enterprises would be in action during the kick off show to Ring of Honor’s Pay Per View Death Before Dishonor.

However during the ROH Death Before Dishonor Zero Hour we learned that Prince Nana had acquired Tully Blanchard Enterprises.

Brian Cage along with the Gates Of Agony members Toa Liona and Kaun now becoming part of The Embassy.

Prince Nana accompanied the new additions to The Embassy in their trios match against Alex Zayne, Blake Christian and Tony Deppen. The three men continued their dominance in Ring of Honor by picking up the pinfall victory on Deppen.

In the Death Before Dishonor post-show media scrum, president of AEW Tony Khan was asked about the status of Tully Blanchard.

“Tully’s good. I think for the workload and the things we’re asking I would just say and where he is in this stage I think it was a good fit and now the business transaction that went down here in Ring of Honor between Tully and Princess Nana.

“I think Tully, he’s doing really well, personally and thriving and I’m happy for him and excited and now Prince Nana.

“He’s a legend, it’s great to have Prince Nana and the Embassy back in Ring of Honor. So I think that’s something to be excited about its great group of wrestlers and very excited about that and wish Tully the best.

“And you know, we certainly could see him around AEW, Ring of Honor again. But now that transition and that transaction got Prince Nana back here, which is awesome.”

Tony Khan on Tully Blanchard’s status
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With Tully Blanchard seen on the match graphic the day before the pay per view and no where to be found the day of, many speculated there might have been more to this story.

That hunch was correct as Fightful reports Tully is essentially done with AEW & ROH.

Athena Was Required To Limit Her Move Set In WWE To Being A High-Flyer

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Athena, formerly known as Ember Moon, spent six years in WWE, where she now says she was forced to limit her moveset.

Athena’s AEW Career

Athena made her AEW debut at AEW Double or Nothing following Jade Cargill’s TBS Title defense against Anna Jay. Since then, she has had four matches and currently has a 3-1 record within the company.

Athena received her first loss in AEW this past week on AEW Dynamite. However, due to her feud with Jade Cargill, it is more than likely that Athena will become ranked and will challenge Jade for the TBS Championship.

In recent weeks, Athena has been partnering with Willow Nightingale and Kris Statlander to take on Jade and The Baddies. Athena recently teamed with Willow Nightingale on the July 20 episode of Dynamite to take on Jade Cargill and Keira Hogan.

Athena’s Time In WWE

During her time in WWE, Athena, then Ember Moon, was known for being a high-flyer. Athena now says that this is due to her height and the restrictions that were placed on her because of how short she was.

Athena was in WWE from 2015–2021. She spent 2015–2018 in NXT. Athena was on the main roster from 2018-2020, but she then returned to NXT in 2020 until she was released in 2021.

She was released from WWE on November 4, 2021 alongside Keith Lee, Karrion Kross (Killer Kross), Mia Yim, Franky Monet (Taya Valkyrie), and many others.

Athena Was Limited Due To Her Height

The Fallen Goddess recently spoke with Rick Ucchino of the Bleav in Pro Wrestling Podcast about her time in WWE and how it has affected the way that she wrestles.

“So I feel like, like I said, I’m 5’1. In a former life, I was 5’1. And I was required to be 5’1  is in like, I had to be a high flyer and jump around and do things. And I like doing that stuff, right? I’m not I’m not knocking any shade.

“That’s just the small window of what I’ve given. And I took advantage of it to the nines. And like that’s, that was the challenge given to me. You are a high flyer go out in high fly and do your thing woman, right? Because I’m short, right? I get it right. But before I got there, I was a technician, I was a powerhouse.

“I didn’t do any of the high-flying stuff. You know, I learned that to get a job because I saw that no one else was doing that at the time. Now everyone can do everything.

“That’s amazing, but that’s that was when I got signed. That was the role I was given. And I was like, ‘Ah, this is just kind of like ugh.'”

Athena on being limited in WWE

Expanding Possibilities Through An Unfiltered Moveset

“But having an unfiltered moveset, not having to worry about so much of who does what but what works for your match and your story within the match. Like, there’s so much more entertainment value to that to me.

“And a lot of that is like one of my favorite things I saw as a kid because I feel like I have to say this because then you’ll understand where my mindset is. Hurricane versus The Rock.

“Mind you didn’t realize hurricane was like six foot something till I met him in person but still, like Hurricane versus a rock? How many times? Did he tease that chokeslam? How many times? Chokeslam? No, no one’s taken the chokeslam.

“And then he finally gets to that championship match with The Rock on SmackDown. And he hits him with the choke slam boom. The crowd loses their crap because for six months, he’s been teasing this chokeslam, The Rock finally takes it that place explodes and everyone thought he was gonna win the match.

“Like that’s the type of like, I don’t want to be limited by the way I look. Right?

Athena Wants To Do What The Guys Can But Better

“But like, I just I want that excitement back. And I feel like that’s just me as a performer. That doesn’t apply to everyone. Some people are comfortable doing what they know.

“And that’s absolutely fine. But I want to push the limits. When I first signed, it’s because I wanted to change the world of women’s wrestling. I’m not a porcelain princess. And I want people to know that like, I am a warrior to and through.

“And I just want people to know that like whatever the guys can do. I can do it. And I’m going to try to do it better than them. And that’s what my whole life in this pro wrestling world has been is.

“I want people to see me as a performer, not a great women’s wrestler, a great wrestler, great performer, and I want them to look at me and say, oh my god, Athena is one of the best in the world.

“It doesn’t matter if she’s a man doesn’t matter if she’s a woman, she can do her job and she does it well.”

Watch Rick Ucchino’s interview with Athena:

Tony Khan on ROH Death Before Dishonor PPV Buys

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Last night’s Ring of Honor pay-per-view event Death Before Dishonor has been said to be a huge success.

The second pay-per-view under the new ownership of the President of All Elite Wrestling, Tony Khan, is said to have been more successful than ROH Supercard Of Honor 2022 back on April 1st.

“We’re approaching 25,000 buys digitally. We’re well over 20,000, approaching 25,000” Tony Khan said during the Death Before Dishonor post-show media scrum.

“Just digitally. And when we get the cable and satellite buys, this will be one of the highest Ring of Honor pay-per-view buys in the history of the company in over 20 years of operating. And as I said, this is the fourth biggest live attendance.

“Of course our first show, we did Supercard was up there. This beat that by a big margin and it was great. And so it is the number four all-time in over 20 years of Ring of Honor events. And again, it is the highest ever for a non-WrestleMania weekend event.”

Later on in the media scrum, Tony Khan would go on mention that this could be a good driver for if or when Ring of Honor starts weekly television.

“I think the business success of tonight’s show is hopefully a good driver and so I think it’s really good news for anybody who likes Ring of Honor. Because the show tonight was a big success and we’ve really revived the brand. And for a company that had a very uncertain future.”

We will report any updates as well as the pay-per-view buy numbers when they become official.

Jonathan Gresham Has Asked for His ROH/AEW Release

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According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Jonathan Gresham has asked for his ROH/AEW release.

In the report, there was a conversation between Gresham and Tony Khan that was said to have involved Gresham “cussing out” Khan.

Sapp would go on to tweet, “There seems to be a lot of lack of communication between talent relations and talent that we’ve heard from. We’ve had stories of Gresham, Marko, Cage, Janela, and others not being able to get answers or responses.”

In an interview with WrestlePurists.com ahead of his recent ROH World Championship defense, he spoke about his communication with the AEW President.

“To be honest, I’ve not really talked to him. I don’t know what he thinks about me. Ive had very short conversations with him, when I say short I mean short. So I dunno. I would hope that he values me, I don’t know though. So we’ll find out in the coming weeks, months I guess.”

Jonathan Gresham on communication with Tony Khan

The backstage incident seemed to play a part in Gresham’s mood going into his match against Claudio Castagnoli at Death Before Dishonor.

Gresham made his entrance without his signature octopus mask, robe or flag. Twitter user @HeelWillMahoney described it as him being called into work on his day off.

Castagnoli ended up defeating Gresham with the Ricola Bomb to become the new ROH World Champion.

Since his loss to Claudio, the former champion has deactivated his Twitter account.

More details on this story to come.

Are The Blackpool Combat Club the Next Challengers For FTR?

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Last night at Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor, the rematch of the dream match from Supercard of Honor earlier this year was held. The rematch between FTR and The Briscoes was contested under the stipulation of 2-out-of-3 falls.

Both teams went to war for around 50 minutes in another instant classic.

Following the aftermath, FTR cut a promo to end the show…or so we thought. The newly crowned ROH World Champion Claudio Castagnoli and ROH Pure Champion Wheeler Yuta, both members of the Blackpool Combat Club, came out on stage.

Could they be the next challengers for the ROH Tag Team Championships?

In the media scrum following the pay-per-view, when asked about the ending of Death Before Dishonor and if the match could happen this Wednesday at Fight For the Fallen, Wheeler Yuta responded,

“Well, I’m not sure when it will happen, but I’m sure that that is a collision course that we’re definitely on now. Obviously, FTR in my opinion is the best tag team in the world.”

Wheeler Yuta on challenging FTR

“But there’s a reason that we have the Ring of Honor World Championship, the Ring of Honor Pure Championship. And Claudio and I’ve never tagged who’s to say that we’re not going to be the best tag team in the world.

“So I’m really excited for that one.”

The Fight for the Fallen edition of Dynamite will take place this upcoming Wednesday (July 27) at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Could we see another interaction or even a match between the Blackpool Combat Club and FTR?

Will Ospreay Claims he Received Cease & Desist from Kenny Omega

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Will Ospreay is one of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s most popular stars, in addition to being the reigning IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion.

Ospreay has amassed a huge fanbase who are willing to pay for merchandise, but one shirt is no longer available to them.

The Shirt

On Twitter, PW Tees announced that a shirt of Ospreay’s has been pulled, following a cease and desist being filed.

The front of the shirt depicts the British wrestler hitting the One-Winged Angel, while the back features the phrase ‘Better Than The Best Bout Machine,’ a nod to a nickname for Kenny Omega.

In response, Omega said that the shirt raised various legal concerns in AEW, and apologized to Ospreay’s fans.

Omega added that all orders already made for the shirt will be fulfilled.

Ospreay Fires Back

Will Ospreay is furious that his shirt has been taken down, and believes Omega is acting like a hypocrite.

In a video response, Ospreay referenced Omega’s own run-ins with C&Ds, noting that WWE filed a cease and desist when he and others were using the ‘Too Sweet’ hand gesture (via Fightful.)

“I have just exposed Kenny as an insecure little b*tch. It was fine when those guys were throwing up the Too Sweet and got hit with a cease & desist. They continued to poke the bear. When it is me doing it to you guys, you have a problem with it. It’s because Kenny is a miserable little pr*ck. He takes it out on me because I’m actually having fun with my life.”

“It was fine when those guys were throwing up the Too Sweet… When it is me doing it to you guys, you have a problem with it.”

Will Ospreay

Ospreay also claimed that Omega is unhappy that AEW has now “turned into something you don’t like.”

He noted that while AEW have portrayed themselves as the underdogs to WWE, they are now “the big boys, trying to look down on the little guys.”

Tony Khan Says a Lot of Jim Cornette’s AEW Criticisms are Fair

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Since being founded in 2019, All Elite Wrestling has become a smash-hit with fans, earning legions of loyal supporters around the globe.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, fans have stuck to AEW’s programming, calling it an alternative to WWE’s standard of entertainment.

Not everyone has been impressed over the years by what Tony Khan has been able to produce.

Cornette is “Fair”

One of the most vocal critics of All Elite Wrestling is Jim Cornette, who routinely bashes the product on his podcast.

From the booking to the in-ring style, Cornette has never shied away from taking shots at the All-Elite promotion and like AEW, has his own share of loyal listeners.

During the media scrum following Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor Pay Per View, Tony Khan admitted that some of what Cornette says has some truth to it (via Sportskeeda.)

“Just as also some of the other vocal critics of AEW, including Jim Cornette. One of the more vocal critics, but at times also a lot of what he says is very fair.”

Tony Khan admits that some of Jim Cornette’s criticisms of AEW are very fair.

Khan didn’t give a specific example of one of these “fair” assessments of AEW by Cornette.

Cornette and Omega

Arguably Cornette’s biggest issue with All Elite Wrestling is one of the company’s Executive Vice Presidents: Kenny Omega.

Earlier this month, Omega fired back to the constant criticisms by Cornette, saying that he has realized that “hateful speech” helps to pay his bills.

Firing back on his podcast, Cornette blamed Omega for making “wrestling something to be laughed at,” and that the former World Champion has “ruined a pastime, a hobby, an interest and entertainment that a lot of us had.”

Original Plans For Claudio Castagnoli’s Debut Revealed

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Last month saw the AEW debut of former WWE star Cesaro, now using his real name again, Claudio Castagnoli. Following Bryan Danielson’s injury, Bryan handpicked Claudio as a mystery opponent for Zack Sabre Jr at AEW and NJPW’s joint show Forbidden Door.

Castagnoli also ended up taking Danielson’s spot as a member of the Blackpool Combat Club in the Blood and Guts match a few days later against the Jericho Appreciation Society. But was this always the plan for Claudio Castagnoli’s All Elite Wrestling debut?

During the Death Before Dishonor media scrum, Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated asked Tony Khan if the original plan was to debut him at the Ring of Honor PPV.

“It was the original plan. Yeah, it was originally. He was going to debut here and it would have been a different build to the pay-per-view than what we did. And I think in a way that, you know, everything worked out perfectly.”

Tony goes on to say:

“So originally my vision when we spoke, was that Claudio was going to come back at Ring of Honor and he would debut and he would be a mystery wrestler and I think there would have been a lot of anticipation for who was going to be.

Tony Khan on original plan for Claudio Castagnoli

“But I also think that it would have been a great delivery and I honestly think that like, you know, if the fans had gotten drawn to the possibility of who could be associated with Ring of Honor, who is a name that is so important to the history of Ring of Honor and also, was certainly, I believe the best free agent wrestler in the world, then I believe it would have been a lot of fans assuming, hoping, wishing, wanting to see it be Claudio.

“But things change and I also knew when we spoke, there was a possibility that you would come in, as the alternate replacing Bryan Danielson as Zack Sabre Jr’s opponent at Forbidden Door, and also replacing Bryan Danielson in the Blood and Guts match. And so everything’s worked out great.”

Last night Claudio Castagnoli competed against ROH World Champion Jonathan Gresham in the opening match of ROH’s Death Before Dishonor.

Castagnoli came out the victor against Gresham, ending the 224-day reign of Gresham who had previously won the vacant championship at ROH Final Battle 2021 back in December.

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Tony Khan Comments on CM Punk’s Injury Recovery

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Just five days after becoming champion, CM Punk announced on the June 3rd episode of Rampage that he had suffered an injury that will require surgery.

Punk ended up not relinquishing the AEW World Championship, as originally speculated by fans, but a new Interim Champion would be crowned during his absence.

During the ROH Death Before Dishonor post-show media scrum, Tony Khan was asked for an injury update on CM Punk.

“Well, he’s doing well on his recovery. He was at the Comic-Con today. I didn’t see his panel and obviously, we saw that Bryan Danielson announced his return there, and not long after of course you saw that was confirmed here again on Death Before Dishonor that it will be on Wednesday Bryan Danielson returning from injury.

“Speaking of a Ring of Honor, true Hall of Famers CM Punk, the AEW World Champion. I don’t know exactly what he said, but I know that he’s doing well in his recovery. So I don’t want to scoop anything he may have said at the Comic-Con panel. So he’s doing well, he’s not behind in his recovery.”

Tony Khan on CM Punk’s recovery

“I wouldn’t want to step on what he said, but the last we spoke, I haven’t spoken to him since he did the panel, but going into the panel, he’s doing well, and on track and we look forward to a great unification match when he’s back. Whoever the Interim Champion is.”

When asked if we could see Punk back for Labor Day weekend in Chicago, Tony replied, “We’ll see, I mean I can’t rule it out but I also can’t promise because I don’t want to say anything when it comes to somebody’s recovery from a real serious injury and he’s really battling hard to get back as soon as you possibly can.”

During the AEW panel at SDCC CM Punk stated that he has no timeline for when he’ll be back inside the ring. His foot was shattered. He says it’s healing, but has not fully healed.

He also went on to say that he’s re-learning to walk.

CM Punk defeated Hangman Page at Double or Nothing on May 29th to become the AEW World Champion. His final match before the injury announcement was alongside FTR where they defeated Max Caster and The Gunn Club on Dynamite.

WWE Giant Debuts New Look at NXT Live Event

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WWE Superstar Commander Azeez has a new look and a new role with the company.

At Saturday’s NXT live event from Cocoa, Florida, Azeez appeared alongside Cora Jade. The duo wrestled a mixed tag match in a losing effort against Ivy Nyle and Sanga.

Azeez previously portrayed Apollo Crews’ Imperial Guardsman on the main roster. That act has disbanded, with both men now wrestling for NXT 2.0.

This latest change is the fourth incarnation of Babatunde Aiyegbusi’s character in WWE. He signed with the company in 2016 after playing football in the Polish American Football League and German Football League. He had a brief stint NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, but only played in the 2015 pre-season.

After debuting as Dabba Kato during the short-lived Raw Underground concept, he was later dubbed Babatunde before transforming into Commander Azeez on the main roster.

It will be interesting to see if WWE sticks with the Azeez & Jade pairing, or if this was a one-off situation while the company decides how to position the 6-foot-9 giant.

Commander Azeez in NXT 2.0

As seen in the photos below, Azeez is sporting a new look in NXT:

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(Photo: @brownscientific)
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(Photo: @rosendevilletm)

Sami Zayn Plans to ‘Run His Mouth’ After He’s Done Wrestling

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Sami Zayn discussed the prospect of retiring from active competition on the latest episode of Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Sessions.

Earlier this year, Zayn celebrated the 20th anniversary of his pro wrestling debut. Prior to joining WWE in 2013, Zayn had a lengthy run on the independent scene. Before the WWE Universe met Sami Zayn, he portrayed the masked character El Generico in companies such as PWG, Chikara, ROH and Dragon Gate USA.

At 38 years old, Zayn knows he can’t wrestle forever. He isn’t planning to hang up the boots any time soon, but he has thought about the next phase of his career.

When father time knocks on his door and he’s wrestled his last match, Sami Zan hopes to put his communication skills to good use.

“I don’t know, because it could be taken away when you’re not ready for it. ‘Till the wheels fall off, I suppose, and then when they do, I’d love to run my mouth and be Bobby Heenan, be Paul Heyman, or be whoever, you know.”

– Sami Zayn on retirement

Heenan and Heyman are undeniably two of the greatest talkers in wrestling history, so Zayn clearly has high aspirations for himself. Whether he works as a broadcaster or manager, there’s no doubt that Zayn has a lot to offer the business even outside the ropes.

Zayn has been out of action for several weeks due to an injury. He last competed at WWE’s Money in the Bank pay-per-view. Since then, he’s been seen wearing a sling. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Zayn’s injury is “legit, but it’s not major, and they are hopeful of him being able to wrestle in a few weeks.”

Elsewhere during the interview, Zayn played the ‘word association game’ and named the first thing that came to mind about topics such as Seth Rollins, John Cena and Triple H.

You can stream Sami Zayn’s appearance Broken Skull Sessions right now on Peacock.

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

AEW Fight for the Fallen 2022 Preview (Dynamite & Rampage)

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AEW presents Fight for the Fallen 2022 this coming week. The themed editions of Dynamite and Rampage will help raise awareness for Oceana, a Washington D.C.-based charity that aims to protect the world’s oceans.

AEW has announced several matches for each show, which you can see below. The most significant news is that Bryan Danielson has been medically cleared to return and will be in action Wednesday night.

Fight for the Fallen Matches

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AEW Dynamite: Wednesday, July 27th

  • Bryan Danielson returns to action against Daniel Garcia
  • AEW Interim World Champion Jon Moxley vs. Rush
  • AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa vs. Miyu Yamashita
  • Danhausen challenges FTW Champion Ricky Starks
  • Tony Nese & “Smart” Mark Sterling vs. Swerve Strickland in a 2-on-1 match. Keith Lee will be banned from ringside.

AEW Rampage: Airing Friday, July 29th

  • Lee Moriarty vs. Matt Sydal
  • Ethan Page vs. Leon Ruffin

Will Vince McMahon’s WWE Retirement be Permanent?

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This week, Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE, after decades of running the company.

McMahon’s retirement comes one month after he stepped down as CEO and Chairman of the Board, due to the allegations of misconduct against multiple female employees.

McMahon is alleged to have paid over $12 million in Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) over 16 years.

Will He Stay Retired?

For years, it was said that the only way McMahon would ever relinquish control of WWE is when he passes away, so the choice to retire is rightly being seen as a huge deal.

While McMahon has insisted that he is finished with WWE, there are some who are skeptical about how long this will last.

Fightful Select reports that some in WWE don’t see McMahon’s retirement as long-lasting, given that he has little hobbies or social circle outside of pro wrestling. (via Wrestling Inc.)

“I’m not banking on anything being permanent,” one source said. “Triple H was phased out, Stephanie was phased out, Bruce left the company for a decade, Johnny has been in and out, and none of them has the power Vince does. I’m not convinced that he can actually stay away, especially if he feels the heat has died down.”

“I’m not banking on anything being permanent… I’m not convinced that he can actually stay away.”

The ‘Heat’

If Vince McMahon is waiting for the heat of these recent scandals to die down, then he may be waiting a very long time.

Reporters from the Wall Street Journal have said that they are conducting interviews with former WWE Superstars, and a third article is expected to be published.

Bianca Belair Calls WWE Raw Superstar the Next “Heavyweight World Champion”

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Bianca Belair knows all about winning championships in WWE.

The winner of the 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble match, Belair would capture the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 37, in the main event of the show.

A year later, Belair would capture the Raw Women’s Championship, dethroning Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 38 this past April.

Belair’s Pick

Belair is no stranger to championship gold, but also sees big things in the future of Montez Ford.

Speaking with Peter Rosenberg, Ebro, and Laura Styles on Hot 97 radio, Belair praised her husband’s in-ring work and called him the next WWE World Champion (via Sportskeeda)

“There’s a lot of talk right now about Montez Ford. He’s the next Heavyweight World Champion. He’s been in the gym. He’s been changing his physique… I’m excited for the future for him. He has so much potential. He’s really focused on this tag team thing right now with Angelo Dawkins. The Street Profits are doing amazing things. All I can say is it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when for my husband. I’m putting it out there.”

He’s the next Heavyweight World Champion… it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.”

Bianca Belair calls Montez Ford a future WWE World Champion.

The People’s Endorsement

Bianca Belair isn’t the only WWE Superstar to see big things in Montez Ford’s future.

Last week, The Rock praised Ford as the “whole package” in the latest positive message from the ‘Brahma Bull.’

In February this year, The Rock agreed with Belair’s mindset that Ford will be a future WWE World Heavyweight Champion.

WWE has also reportedly been high on Ford, admiring his in-ring work and charisma.

Latest On Max Dupri And Maximum Male Models

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This Friday’s SmackDown saw an abrupt change in the Maximum Male Models storyline. NXT star Sofia Cromwell debuted as Maxxine Dupri, with reports suggesting that Max Dupri was done with the group.

We have an update on the situation and the future of the character played by the former LA Knight.

Per Fightful, the whole angle was Vince McMahon’s idea and he had taken a particular interest in the storyline. The boss even came down to the ring to produce the Maximum Male Models debut segment which doesn’t happen often.

The former WWE chairman had a distinct vision for how Max Dupri would sound. McMahon worked with Max quite a bit on it. He said that he wanted the character to sound nothing like Knight.

Both Mace and Mansoor were on board with the angle, but LA Knight had some reservations. He said to have ‘ruffled some feathers with a couple of scripts’ and challenged what the writers had come up with.

Though despite the report that the decision was made a couple of weeks ago, Max Dupri was unbooked on last minute. Other people involved in the segment weren’t given any concrete information on his status.

A source said that Vince McMahon retiring from WWE is the best thing that could have happened to Knight. He still has supporters in WWE that enjoy his work, and the door isn’t closed for the decision to be reversed.

What Creative Changes Are Expected After Vince McMahon’s Retirement

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Vince McMahon held the keys when it came to WWE creative for over 5 decades. Now that he is gone from the company, the WWE programming is expected to go through some major changes.

Fightful Select provided some updates on what changes we can expect. They noted that one source within creative said that we may see fewer rematches moving forward.

It’s believed that Vince McMahon will redo a match if he liked it and thought that it made sense. He then ‘later forget that they’d done it so many times.’

There were people that claimed that the 76-year-old had issues remembering names of talents here and there. This might be a reason why he shortened many talent names.

People believe that the new leadership may not want to deviate from McMahon’s vision too much out of ‘respect’ for the boss, but they still think that small improvements in current programming can make a huge difference.

As far as long-term changes go, most people said that it will be determined by who ends up in control of creative. If Bruce Prichard ends up taking over, it’s likely that not much will change.

Though if it’s someone else, the likelihood of ‘forward progression’ will be much higher. You can check out more backstage news on Vince McMahon’s retirement here.

Watch What Happened With FTR After ROH Death Before Dishonor Went Off The Air

The 2022 ROH Death Before Dishonor PPV has gone off the air and FTR created a moment that one fan won’t soon forget.

Death Before Dishonor was held inside the Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts. The show got started with a bang as Jonathan Gresham put the ROH World Championship on the line against Claudio Castagnoli.

In the end, it was Claudio who hit the Ricola Bomb and pinned Gresham to become the new ROH World Champion.

In the main event, FTR and The Briscoes had an instant classic for the ROH World Tag Team Championships. This was a best 2 out of 3 falls match and FTR won the match, earning the two falls, while The Briscoes earned one.

When Cameras Stopped Rolling

Once ROH Death Before Dishonor went off the air, FTR brought a young fan into the ring. The fan got to hoist up one-half of the ROH World Tag Team Titles.

SEScoops’ Steve Fall was in attendance for the show and he captured the special moment:

SEScoops provided live coverage throughout the evening. You can check back on the homepage for ROH Death Before Dishonor results and video highlights.

Bryan Danielson Cleared to Wrestle, First Opponent Since May Revealed

Welcome back to the Bryan Danielson show.

Danielson has been out of action since late May. The top AEW star competed in an Anarchy in the Arena match during the Double or Nothing PPV.

It is believed that Bryan suffered a concussion during the match. While Danielson was feeling fine physically, AEW President Tony Khan left no stone unturned in ensuring that Danielson would wait until he was 100 percent ready to get back inside the ring.

That day has come.

Bryan Danielson Returning

During an appearance at the San Diego Comic-Con Convention, Bryan Danielson announced that he medically cleared to get back in the ring.

Furthermore, it was announced during the ROH Death Before Dishonor PPV event that Danielson will take on Daniel Garcia on a special Fight for the Fallen edition of AEW Dynamite this Wednesday night (July 27).

The Danielson vs. Garcia matchup seemingly confirms that the rivalry between Blackpool Combat Club and the Jericho Appreciation Society will continue.

We’ve updated our Wrestling Injuries Tracker to reflect Bryan Danielson being medically cleared to wrestle.

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AEW continues to receive good news after going through a wave of talent injuries. It was reported that Kenny Omega is expected to be back sooner than later. The target for Omega could be at the All Out PPV on Sept. 4.

Jonathan Gresham Deactivates Twitter After ROH World Title Loss

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Tonight’s Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor pay-per-view opened with Jonathan Gresham defending the world championship against Claudio Castagnoli, a competitive back and forth contest that saw Castanoli get the win and capture his first singles world title.

Shortly after the bout’s conclusion Gresham deactivated his Twitter account. The Octopus had been a topic of conversation on social media over the weekend, with some toxic fans taking shots at his height or on-screen character. It is not confirmed that this is why Gresham deactivated, but it will be something to keep an eye on.

Gresham won the ROH world title at last December’s Final Battle by defeating Jay Lethal, who had replaced the champion at the time, Bandido. Gresham and Bandido would eventually meet at SuperCard of Honor to determine the promotion’s undisputed champion, which was won by Gresham in the show’s main event.

You can see a screenshot of Gresham’s Twitter below.

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Sescoops will keep you updated as this is an ongoing story.

Claudio Castagnoli Wins ROH World Title at Death Before Dishonor

Claudio Castagnoli can finally call himself a world champion.

Castagnoli challenged Jonathan Gresham in the PPV opener for Death Before Dishonor. While many expected the bout to headline the card, commentator Ian Riccaboni explained that there was a coin toss to determine what would be the main event.

FTR vs. The Briscoes for the ROH World Tag Team Championships won the toss.

It was clear that the crowd heavily backed Claudio in this one and they got exactly what they were hoping for.

Claudio Castagnoli hit the Ricola Bomb to cap off one heck of an opening match. Claudio scored the pinfall and he now lays claim to a world title for the first time in his career.

This marks the end of Jonathan Gresham’s 225-day reign as the ROH World Champion.

SEScoops’ Steve Fall and Jaychele Nicole are both in attendance for ROH Death Before Dishonor and have provided some clips of the celebration:

ROH Death Before Dishonor 2022 Results: FTR vs. The Briscoes, Claudio Castagnoli Wins Title, Samoa Joe

ROH Death Before Dishonor 2022 aired live from the Tsongas Center in Lowell, MA. FTR defended the ROH Tag Team Championships against The Briscoes in a 2 out of 3 falls match in the main event.

ROH Death Before Dishonor 2022 Results:

  • Colt Cabana def. Anthony Henry (pre-show)
  • Trust Busters def. Shinobi Shadow Squad (pre-show)
  • Brian Cage & the Gates of Agony def. Blake Christian, Tony Deppen, Alex Zayne (pre-show)
  • Willow Nightingale def. Allison Kay (pre-show)
  • Claudio Castagnoli def. Jonathan Gresham to become the new ROH Champion
  • Dalton Castle & The Boys def. The Righteous to become the new Six-Man Tag Team Champions
  • Wheeler Yuta def. Daniel Garcia to retain the ROH Pure Championship
  • Rush def. Dragon Lee
  • Mercedes Martinez def. Serena Deeb via submission to retain the ROH Women’s Championship
  • Samoa Joe def. Jay Lethal via submission to retain the ROH TV Championship
  • FTR def. The Briscoes in a 2 out of 3 Falls match to retain the ROH Tag Team Championships

Here are the takeaways from the PPV:

Claudio Castagnoli Captured The ROH Championship

Jonathan Gresham defended the ROH Championship against Claudio Castagnoli in the first match of Death Before Dishonor. William Regal accompanied Claudio to the ring. Prince Nana has apparently purchased Tully Blanchard Enterprises in storyline and he accompanied ROH Champion Jonathan Gresham to the ring. The crowd was heavily behind Castagnoli early.

Claudio controlled the match early and connected with the Swing. Gresham battled back with a series of strikes and posed for the crowd. The champ hit Claudio with a Dragon Screw and applied a knee bar in the middle of the ring. Claudio showed off his strength with a slam and went for the cover but Gresham kicked out at two.

Gresham focused his attack on Claudio’s knee and leveled him with a chop block. The champ went for a submission hold but Claudio booted him away. Castagnoli connected with a Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker and went for the cover but Gresham kicked out at two. Claudio followed it up with a big uppercut for a near fall.

Jonathan went after Claudio’s knee again and hobbled the challenger. The champ hit a Missile Dropkick and a forearm to the face for a near fall. Gresham quickly got Castagnoli in an Ankle Lock but Claudio reached the bottom rope to break the hold and the title match continued.

Castagnoli took a couple of chops to the chest but shrugged them off. Claudio decked Gresham with an uppercut but the champion responded with an Enziguri. Castagnoli went for a move but his knee gave out. Gresham capitalized with an Ankle Lock and then planted Claudio with a Northern Lights Suplex for a two count.

Claudio hit a big uppercut and went for the Neutralizer but Gresham escaped. Jonathan went for a roll-up but Claudio kicked out and decked him with a Clothesline. Castagnoli delivered a bunch of elbow strikes to Gresham and followed it up with the Ricola Powerbomb for the pinfall victory. Claudio Castagnoli is the new Ring of Honor Champion. After the match, Castagnoli and Gresham shook hands.

Dalton Castle & The Boys Are The New 6-Man Tag Team Champions

The Righteous (Vincent, Dutch, Bateman) defended their Six-Man Tag Team championships Dalton Castle & The Boys (Brandon & Brent Tate). The Righteous dominated the action early and beat The Boys down. Vincent tagged in and connected with a Suplex. Castle battled back by throwing The Boys onto The Righteous outside the ring over and over again to a big pop from the crowd. The action broke down into a brawl and The Righteous isolated one of The Boys in the ring.

Vincent hit Death From Above but Dalton broke up the cover at two. Vincent hit a Cutter and then a Suicide Dive onto Castle outside the ring. Dalton hit Vincent with a Hurricanrana as Dutch delivered a Bossman Slam. Dalton Castle hit Dutch with a German Suplex. Castle then delivered the Bang-A-Rang for the pinfall victory. Dalton Castle & The Boys are the new Six-Man Tag Team Champions.

Wheeler Yuta Retained The ROH Pure Championship

Wheeler Yuta defended the ROH Pure Championship against Daniel Garcia. William Regal accompanied Yuta to the ring and joined commentary for the bout. Ace Steel, John Walters, and Josh Woods were the judges. Wheeler controlled the action early and applied a submission hold. Garcia battled back and launched Yuta out of the ring.

Garcia beat the champion down before bringing him back into the ring. Daniel went for a cover and started yelling at the referee to count faster. Wheeler connected with a Body Slam and followed it up with a Senton. Yuta planted Garcia with two German Suplexes and went for a third but Daniel escaped.

Yuta and Garcia traded shots until they both fell down in the middle of the ring. Garcia and Wheeler then brilliantly traded strikes and submission holds as the crowd got into the match. Yuta locked in a Liontamer in the middle of the ring but the Jericho Appreciation Society member used one of his rope breaks to get out of the hold. Daniel planted Wheeler with a Piledriver and went for the cover but the champion kicked out at two. Wheeler then got Garcia in a roll-up for the pinfall victory. Wheeler Yuta remains the ROH Pure Champion.

Rush def. Dragon Lee

Rush squared off against Dragon Lee tonight at ROH Death Before Dishonor. Rush sent Dragon Lee into the barricade several times to begin the match and posed for the crowd. Dragon battled back and pet Rush on the timekeeper’s table. He then went for a very long dive through the ropes and connected through the table. Dragon followed it up with a Double Stomp off the top rope for a two count.

Rush hit a German Suplex and both wrestlers were down in the middle of the ring. They made it back to their feet before the ten count and Rush connected with a vertical Suplex for a close two count. Rush delivered some kicks on the ring apron but Dragon responded with some chops to the chest.

They went back and forth on the ring apron with chops before Dragon Lee connected with a knee strike to the face. Dragon Lee charged and Rush sent him flying to the floor with an overhead throw. Back in the ring, Rush played possum before hitting a Dropkick for the pinfall victory.

Mercedes Martinez Retained The ROH Women’s Championship

Mercedes Martinez defended the ROH Women’s Championship against Serena Deeb tonight at Death Before Dishonor. Mercedes and Serena traded submission holds to start off the action. Deeb connected with a Cutter and went for the cover but Mercedes kicked out at two. Martinez perched Deeb up on the top turnbuckle and joined her up there. Mercedes went for a German Suplex but Serena held onto the ropes. Deeb unloaded some elbow strikes to the head but Martinez shrugged them off. Serena eventually was able to knock Mercedes back into the Tree of Woe and booted her in the head several times.

Serena followed it up with a running Dropkick and the ROH Women’s Champion fell to the mat. Mercedes went for an armbar but Serena was able to block it before Martinez applied a headlock. Martinez and Deeb traded kicks over and over in the middle of the ring. Deeb went for a roll-up but Martinez rolled through and connected with a knee strike to the face.

Martinez went for a Splash in the corner but Deeb dodged it. Mercedes hit a running boot to Serena’s face and climbed up to the top rope. Martinez then connected with a German Suplex off the top rope for a two count. Deeb applied the Serenity Lock but Martinez countered into a roll-up for a near fall. Serena bashed Martinez’ knee onto the canvas several times. The champion countered and sent Deeb face-first into the turnbuckle.

Mercedes hit a Superkick to the face and followed it up with a slam. The champion then locked in the Brass City Sleeper for the submission victory. Mercedes Martinez is still the ROH Women’s Champion.

Samoa Joe Retained The ROH TV Championship

Samoa Joe defended the ROH TV Championship against Jay Lethal at Death Before Dishonor. The two brawled outside the ring to start off the action. Joe leveled Jay with a Clothesline and went to roll him into the ring. Lethal blocked it and raked Joe’s eyes before taking a look at the title. Lethal tried to bounce Joe’s head off the title but the champ countered with a headbutt.

The challenger leveled Joe with a Suicide Dive and followed it up with a chop to the chest. Jay motioned along with the crowd as they chanted “Lethal sucks!”. Joe battled back with a chop of his own and then hit a running kick to Jay’s head.

Satnam Singh attacked Samoa Joe to a chorus of boos from the crowd. Jay put Joe’s arm in a steel chair and shoved it into the ring post. The match then officially started once they got into the ring and the referee kicked Satnam out from ringside. Joe hit a Splash in the corner and followed it up with an Enziguri.

Joe went for the cover but Jay got his boot on the ropes. Lethal connected with a Dropkick off the top rope and went for the cover but Joe kicked out at two. Samoa Joe hit a shoulder tackle that knocked Jay to the ropes. The challenger bounced off and connected with a Dropkick for a two count.

Jay hit another Enziguri and both wrestlers fell to the canvas. Samoa Joe was the first up and sent Jay to the outside. Joe connected with a Suicide Dive through the ropes and rolled Lethal back into the ring. Samoa Joe hit a big Clothesline and went for the cover but Lethal kicked out at two.

Joe connected with a Powerslam but couldn’t keep Jay down for three. Lethal responded with a slam for a near fall. Jay perched Joe up on the top rope but he knocked the challenger down. Joe hit a leg lariat off the middle turnbuckle and went for the cover but Lethal kicked out at two.

Samoa Joe went for the Muscle Buster but Jay escaped and hit Lethal Injection but the champion somehow was able to kick out at two. Joe connected with a Uranage and set up for the Muscle Buster but Sonjay Dutt hopped on the ring apron. Lethal hit Samoa Joe with the title but Joe somehow kicked out at two. The crowd broke out in a “Joe!” chant and the champion applied the Coquina Clutch for the submission victory. Samoa Joe is still the ROH TV Champion.

FTR def The Briscoes To Retain The ROH Tag Titles

FTR defended the ROH Tag Team Championships against The Briscoes in the main event. It was a 2 out of 3 falls match. The two teams argued for a bit after the bell rang in the middle of the ring. Dax Harwood and Mark Briscoe started off the match. They locked up and Dax took control. Cash Wheeler tagged in and went to work on Mark Briscoe’s arm.

Mark connected with an Armdrag and a backhand to the face that knocked Cash down. Harwood and Jay Briscoe tagged in and Dax applied a headlock. Jay sent Harwood to the outside and he sold a shoulder injury.

Back in the ring, Jay and Cash traded chops. Cash and Jay seemed to get crossed up and Wheeler hit Jay hard in an odd sequence. Mark tagged in for a moment so Jay could regroup. Jay tagged back in and Cash sent him to the corner. Dax tagged in and hit Jay with an elbow to the back of the head for a near fall. Harwood planted Jay with a Suplex and brought him back to the corner.

Cash tagged in as FTR continued to isolate Jay Briscoe in the corner. Jay leveled Cash with a big boot and Mark tagged in. Mark hit a shoulder tackle and followed it up with a Suplex on Wheeler for a near fall. Mark hit a Splash in the corner as The Briscoes took control and isolated Cash in their corner of the ring.

Wheeler eventually got to the corner and tagged in Harwood. Dax unloaded some strikes to The Briscoes and then sent Jay flying across the ring with a German Suplex. The Briscoes battled back and knocked Harwood to the outside. Wheeler absolutely leveled Mark with a Clothesline but turned around into one from Jay. Back in the ring, Harwood planted Jay with a DDT for a two count.

The Briscoes then picked up the first fall after hitting Dax with the Doomsday.

Jay caught Dax with a Clothesline and booted him out of the ring. The action spilled out of the ring and Dax got busted open on his chest after hitting the barricade. Back in the ring, Jay hit Dax with some chops in the corner. Dax battled with Jay on the turnbuckle and hit a Back Suplex off the top rope.

Wheeler fired up the crowd for a tag but Mark Briscoe tripped Cash up to prevent it. Mark got Harwood in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Harwood escaped and they started trading chops to the chest. Harwood escaped and finally got the tag to Wheeler. Cash got into the ring to a big pop from the crowd and started unloading chops and strikes.

Cash planted Mark with a Brainbuster and went for the cover but Briscoe kicked out at two. The two teams started battling outside the ring as the action broke down. Back in the ring, Wheeler climbed to the top rope and hit Mark with a Crossbody off the top turnbuckle for a two count. Briscoes had the match won but Dax broke up the cover at the last moment.

Mark chased Dax around the ring and Harwood sent him into the steel steps. Harwood tagged in and FTR hit Jay with the Big Rig for the pinfall. FTR and The Briscoes were now tied 1-1.

Cash and Mark were both busted open and trading haymakers in the middle of the ring. Mark delivered an Exploder Suplex that sent Cash flying across the ring. Dax tagged in and Mark hit him with an Exploder Suplex as well. Harwood and Mark Briscoe battled on the ring apron. Mark leaped off the ring apron and hit Dax with a Blockbuster on the floor.

Jay got Harwood in the Electric Chair but Cash broke it up. FTR isolated Jay Briscoe but the referee accidentally got knocked out. Mark Briscoe sent Cash into the barricade as Jay planted Dax with a Piledriver. Jay went for the cover but the referee was down outside the ring. FTR hit a Big Rig on Jay and Wheeler rolled the referee back in. The referee began counting but Jay kicked out at the last moment and the match continued.

Mark shoved Cash off the turnbuckle and Briscoes hit Doomsday Device on Cash again. Jay went for the cover but Cash broke it up at two. Mark and Cash battled to the outside as Dax and Jay were in the ring. The two had a bit of a hockey fight before Jay hit a big boot to the face. Dax bounced off the ropes and responded with a Clothesline for a two count.

Jay applied a Crossface on Harwood in the middle of the ring. Cash tried to break it up but Mark got him in a Crossface. Dax got to the ropes to break up the hold as Mark sent Cash out of the ring. Mark climbed to the top rope and Cash hopped up there with him. Cash sent him through the table below with a Suplex. Jay planted Dax with a Piledriver for a near fall.

Harwood perched Jay up on the top turnbuckle and unloaded a bunch of chops. Dax then planted Jay with a Piledriver off the middle turnbuckle and rolled over to cover him in a cool finish. FTR retained the ROH Tag Team Champions and got a great reaction from the crowd. After the match, FTR and The Briscoes showed each other respect in the ring. Dax said “mother f*cker I love professional wrestling”. Harwood added that “you can call me a mark if you want but I love this sh*t”. FTR then said they will see everyone on Dynamite. ROH Champion Claudio Castagnoli, ROH Pure Champion Wheeler Yuta then appeared with Regal on the entrance ramp. Everyone held up their championships to close the show.