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Sasha Banks Contract News & More On Her Status With WWE

Michael Reichlin
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Sasha Banks and Naomi walking out of Monday’s Raw taping remains the hottest story in wrestling.

Some people, including CM Punk and Bayely, have shown support for Banks and Naomi. Others, such as Road Dogg, have called the situation a publicity stunt.

No matter how you feel about the situation, this is not a work and there are major issues between the involved parties.

We’ve got an update on Sasha Banks and Naomi’s WWE contracts, as well as their status for tonight’s SmackDown broadcast.

Contracts Expiring

Sasha Banks and Naomi

Sasha Banks and Naomi’s fallout with WWE comes at a time when both women’s contracts are expiring soon.

It’s believed that Sasha Banks signed a 3-year contract extension with WWE in August 2019.

According to former WWE writer Kazeem Famuyide, the reigning WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions have been in contract negotiations with the company.

On the latest episode of The Masked Man podcast, Famuyide stated that both contracts are set to expire within the next two months.

Based on conversations we’ve had with people in the industry, we believe WWE will make a great effort to keep Sasha Banks under contract.

Status for SmackDown

Tonight’s WWE SmackDown takes place from Grand Rapids, Michigan. It’s the first main-roster broadcast since Sasha Banks and Naomi’s walkout at Raw.

It does not appear either woman will be on hand for SmackDown. According to PWInsider, WWE sources have confirmed that Noami did not travel with husband Jimmy Uso for the show. The Usos will battle RK-Bro in a tag team championship unification match.

As for Sasha Banks, she was spotted on a Thursday night flight from Orlando to Minneapolis. While it’s entirely possible to make it from Minneapolis to Grand Rapids in 24 hours, she’s not expected at SmackDown.

SEScoops will keep you posted as more details become available.

Earlier this week, SEScoops spoke with Ariane Andrew, Naomi’s former tag team partner in WWE. During her discussion with Steve Fall, Andrew revealed she believes Naomi is being “manipulated” and would not have walked out of WWE on her own.

WWE SmackDown Star Potentially Undergoing Gimmick Change

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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It appears a rising WWE SmackDown superstar could be getting a new look in the near future.

WrestlingNews.co reported that some within WWE have pitched the idea of dropping comedic aspects of the Madcap Moss character. Of course, this would include new attire and fresh entrance music.

New Attitude For Madcap Moss?

Madcap Moss
(via WWE)

In a follow-up to that report, Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that a gimmick change for Madcap has indeed been discussed but it isn’t a lock.

A change in character at this time would certainly make sense.

WWE seemingly wrote Madcap Moss off television during the May 13 episode of SmackDown. Happy Corbin attacked Moss from behind and placed his neck through a chair. He then crushed the chair with the Andre The Giant Memorial trophy.

Moss was stretchered out of the arena.

Many fans have called for Madcap to ditch the suspenders and the goofiness. Despite going babyface, he has maintained the same character he had as a heel.

Perhaps returning to get revenge on Corbin with a new attitude can catapult Madcap Moss to a higher level.

Possible Plans For Roman Reigns Revealed

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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It appears the next direction for Roman Reigns has been revealed.

Reigns is the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion but he doesn’t have a one-on-one feud at this time. He’s been propping up The Usos on their journey to become Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions.

With that said, WWE may have clued us in on the next singles match for the “Tribal Chief.” On the May 13 episode of SmackDown, Riddle of RK-Bro nailed Reigns with a knee to the jaw to close the show.

Next Three Opponents For Roman Reigns?

Roman Reigns Belts
(via WWE)

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Newsletter is reporting that there is talk of booking Roman Reigns against Riddle at Money in the Bank on July 2.

Reigns is expected to win that match and go on to face Randy Orton at WWE Summerslam on July 30.

Then there’s the big stadium show in Cardiff, Wales on Sept. 3. Right now, the word is that Reigns will finally collide with Drew McIntyre one-on-one at WWE Clash at the Castle.

Reigns reportedly signed a new deal with WWE for fewer dates. As a result, he isn’t expected to have a match at the Hell in a Cell premium live event on June 5.

Triple H Back Working Full-Time at WWE

Michael Reichlin
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Paul Levesque (Triple H) has returned to working at the WWE office on a full-time basis according to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

“Triple H is back in the WWE office full-time now. There is no time frame for Stephanie McMahon to return but she is returning.”

– Wrestling Observer Newsletter (5/23/22)

Triple H is WWE’s Executive Vice President for Global Talent Strategy & Development. He also serves as an Executive Producer of the NXT brand.

This development sheds new light on Stephanie McMahon’s decision to take a leave of absence from WWE to focus on her family.

WWE President Nick Khan will be taking over most of Stephanie’s duties.

Triple H Update

Triple H has been on his own leave since September 2021, when he suffered a ‘cardiac vent’ that almost took his life.

Back in March, Triple H announced his retirement from active competition. During an interview with Stephen A. Smith for ESPN, he revealed he’s had a defibrillator pacemaker installed in his chest.

Triple H Retires, Details Near-Death Experience

Subscribe to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter at f4wonline.com.

WWE May Have Spoiled Outcome Of Tag Team Title Unification Match

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The official Twitter account of WWEUK may have jumped the gun.

Tonight (May 20), a big title unification match is set for Friday Night SmackDown. It’ll be Raw Tag Team Champions RK-Bro taking on the SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos. This is being promoted as “Winner Take All.”

Hours before the big match occurs, WWE might have botched.

Undisputed Tag Team Champions Spoiled?

The official Facebook account of WWEUK made the following post, which was quickly deleted, appearing to reveal the outcome of tonight’s tag team title unification match:

FTIht 1UYAMigSi

This could have very well just been a “What If” post that didn’t get the green light but it has already got people talking.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Newsletter had reported that WWE planned to go through with the tag team title unification match without actually unifying the titles. Bryan Alvarez speculated that if WWE does crown undisputed tag team champions, the reign will be short-lived.

Check back on the SEScoops homepage for live coverage of WWE SmackDown later tonight.

The Usos Say Solo Sikoa Changed Everything to Set Himself Apart

Thomas Lowson
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WWE NXT 2.0’s Solo Sikoa changed as much about himself to separate himself from The Usos.

Sikoa is the younger brother of Jimmy and Jey and the cousin of the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

During the latest episode of WWE After the Bell, Jimmy and Jey were asked about the success of their younger brother, and said he felt the need to establish himself as his own person. Jey said:

“We look a lot alike, so he had long hair, he chopped his hair and dyed his hair. Went from the Air Forces to barefoot, he’s uncomfortable in the ring barefoot but he’s just doing whatever he needs to do to make his mark. I told him he’ll find it. I remember Randy Orton telling us he wasn’t Randy Orton until six years into the game, and then he started finding Randy Orton. It dawned on me that, man, like, that’s what it is, the grind of just constantly throwing at the wall and whatever sticks, sticks, and if it doesn’t, we’re going to keep throwing.”

“He chopped his hair and dyed his hair. Went from the Air Forces to barefoot, he’s uncomfortable in the ring barefoot but he’s just doing whatever he needs to do.”

Jey Uso

Jimmy added that he hopes to see Sikoa one day join The Bloodline

Sikoa last competed on this week’s WWE NXT 2.0, teaming with North American Champion Cameron Grimes to defeat Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams.

Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Edge Teases Paige as the Next Member of The Judgement Day

Thomas Lowson
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Former WWE Divas Champion Paige could become the next member of The Judgement Day if a recent tease by Edge is to be believed.

The Judgement Day was founded by Edge at WrestleMania 38 where he aligned with Damian Priest and welcomed Rhea Ripley into the faction at WrestleMania Backlash.

On Twitter, Edge shared an image of Paige causing fans to speculate that she will be the next member to join the faction.

Edge also recently shared an image of Ciampa, who is also rumored to be joining The Judgement Day.

Will Paige wrestle again?

A former Divas Champion and the first-ever NXT Women’s Champion, Paige hasn’t wrestled since a WWE Live Event in Uniondale, New York on December 27, 2017.

Paige formally retired from wrestling on the post-WrestleMania 34 Raw on April 9, 2018.

Despite this, Paige has remained with the company in various roles and has said that she’s not yet finished with in-ring competition.

Earlier this year, Paige was trending on Twitter as fans speculated about her involvement in the Women’s Royal Rumble match given the multiple returns associated with the match.

Paige ultimately did not return in the match which was won by the returning Ronda Rousey.

Toni Storm On Competing In The Owen Hart Cup Tournament

Anutosh Bajpai
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One of the biggest reasons wrestlers prefer AEW over other companies is the creative control. The promotion allows its talent a lot of freedom in what they do and say. Many of the stars have said that this freedom has helped them reignite the creative spark and passion for the business. It appears Toni Storm is one such name.

The former WWE star recently appeared on AEW Unrestricted podcast. Among other things, she discussed being part of the Owens Hart Cup tournament. Storm claimed that she was nervous competing in the first round of the tournament:

“Yeah it’s incredible being part of.” said Toni Storm, “To be [in] first round me and Jamie Hayter. I was definitely feeling the pressure. Like setting the standard. [It was like] ‘We really gotta have a good match here because it sets the tone for the tournament going forward.’ But I had a great time winning. I feel like every match that I’m having here so far is just kind of reigniting that passion more and more. More than I thought possible.”

Toni Storm made her AEW debut during the March 30 episode of Dynamite. She defeated The Bunny to qualify for the Owens Hart Cup tournament. She went on to defeat Jamie Hayter in the first round of the competition. Storm is now scheduled to face Dr. Brit Baker in the semi-finals of the tournament.

More Originals From SEScoops:

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

Tyler Breeze Returning To UpUpDownDown

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former WWE star Tyler Breeze will be making his UpUpDownDown come back for the return of the Battle of the Brands special next week.

After months of inactivity, Xavier Woods welcomed fans back to his gaming YouTube channel earlier this month. He had been teasing a special announcement regarding the channel recently.

Woods released a video on his channel making the announcement of Breeze’s return yesterday. The video is a spoof of the science fiction film The Matrix.

The promo starts with The New Day member entering a milk-white room while someone is watching him. There he encounters Morpheus which is also played by Woods himself.

Morpheus offers him the choice of picking up a red or blue controller. Though before he can make his choice, Tyler Breeze makes an appearance.

The former WWE star slaps the controller out of Xavier Woods’ hands. He then announces his return to the channel next week.

Before his release, Breeze had been a featured star of the UpUpDownDown YouTube channel. He was a member of DaParty, the four-man group also consisting of Woods, Adam Cole, and Cesaro.

This won’t be his first UUDD appearance following his release in June 2021. He has not made his in-ring return yet. Word is that he is taking time off to heal from his injuries.

Internal Reaction And Potential Reason For Stephanie McMahon’s Leave Of Absence

Anutosh Bajpai
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Stephanie McMahon’s decision to take a leave of absence from WWE surprised not only the fans but people within the organization as well.

PWinsider provided some updates on the situation and revealed the potential reason as well as the internal reaction to this news.

According to the site, the word-making round is that McMahon has decided to take this break to focus on her family. The belief is that she will return somewhere down the line but there is no timetable for it.

This likely means that someone else will take over her duties as the Chief Brand Officer of WWE in the meantime. Though there is no word on who that may be.

Update: Brandon Thurston is now reporting that WWE president Nick Khan will be taking over most of McMahon’s duties:

Internal Reaction To Stephanie McMahon Taking Time Off

Except for the most inner circle, nobody within the promotion was aware of this announcement from Stephanie McMahon. Per the report, most people were ‘completely shocked and taken aback’ by the news.

The former Raw General Manager has been working with WWE full-time for over two decades. She made her on-camera debut in the late 90s and has assumed a number of different roles since then.

Who do you think should take over the duties of Stephanie McMahon until she comes back? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.

Conrad Thompson Addresses Ricky Steamboat Declining Ric Flair Match

Michael Reichlin
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Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat will not be returning to the ring to wrestle Ric Flair this summer.

Ric Flair’s last match is set for July 31st. The spectacle will take place during Starrcast V from Nashville, TN during WWE SummerSlam weekend.

It was rumored that Steamboat, 69, would be Flair’s opponent in some sort of tag match possibly involving FTR. However, Steamboat set the record straight and explained that he turned down the offer to wrestle Flair after giving it serious consideration.

Starrcast organizer Conrad Thompson spoke to Wrestling Inc about the Steamboat situation and expressed frustration that Steamboat publicly addressed the offer he received.

“There’s no way for me to have that conversation with you and not be negative, or hurtful or rude and I am not going to comment on it, because I think a lot of Mr. Steamboat and hold him in high regard,” said Thompson.

“I know what really happened and he knows what really happened and I am disappointed that he put a statement out before we had an opportunity to put a bow on things. But, that’s not the whole story and what the whole story is, is nobody’s business I suppose.”

Thompson added that he’s not upset with Steamboat and he never advertised ‘Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat.’

“So, we have had conversations, but ultimately that’s not the match you’re going to see, but I have never said what the match was going to be. So, when people are saying, ‘what’s the match now?’ Well, what was it ever?”

He continue, “There’s a lot of hypotheticals, we could say hypothetically right now next year’s WrestleMania is The Rock vs. Roman, everyone has said that hypothetically, but when has WWE announced that? When has Rock said that? It’s all just conjecture at this point.”

Visit Starrcast.com for full details on how you can attend and watch the upcoming fan fest.

Ric Flair Addresses Concerns About In-Ring Return

Jonathan Coachman & Matt Rehwoldt Join WES Commentary Team For June 4 Event

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Jonathan Coachman and Matt Rehwoldt will be taking the commentary reins on June 4 for the inaugural WES event.

The Wrestling Entertainment Series will get underway next month and it’ll feature a lineup full of ex-WWE talent and one controversial MMA fighter. The official Twitter account of WES has announced that both Coachman and Rehwoldt will be the commentators for its June 4 show.

In the main event, Adam Scherr, formerly known as Braun Strowman in WWE, will take on former UFC heavyweight Alistair Overeem. “The Reem” is a bit controversial as he once labeled pro wrestling as “gay” during an interview with Ariel Helwani back in 2021.

The card will also feature Lina Fanene, the former Nia Jax, taking on CJ Perry (Lana).

Take a look at the full card for the WES show below:

  • Adam Scherr vs. Alistair Overeem – for the WES World Title
  • Lina Fanene vs. CJ Perry – for the WES Women’s Title
  • Gzim Selmani & Sunny Dhinsa vs. Westin Blake & Steve Maclin – for the WES Tag Team Titles
  • Killer Kross vs. Samuray Del Sol vs. JONAH
  • Madison Rayne & Tenille Dashwood vs. Deonna Purrazzo & Chelsea Green – for the WES Women’s Tag Team Titles
  • Dean Muhtadi vs. Lince Dorado
  • Mike Bennett vs. Biff Busick (pre-show match)
  • Dirty Dango vs. Levis Valenzuela Jr. (pre-show match)

Wrestling World Reacts To Stephanie McMahon Stepping Back From WWE Duties

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Stephanie McMahon has taken a leave of absence from WWE and the wrestling world has responded.

Stephanie shocked many fans with the announcement on her Twitter page. The WWE Chief Brand Officer cited wanting to spend more time with her family as the reason for her stepping away from most of her duties at this time.

They say your reputation precedes you, and it appears Stephanie has a ton of supporters.

Here are just some of the reactions to her leave of absence:

https://twitter.com/AlexaBliss_WWE/status/1527392281321422848

Stephanie McMahon Takes Leave Of Absence From WWE

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Stephanie McMahon has announced she’ll be stepping away from most of her duties within WWE for now.

The WWE Chief Brand Officer took to her Twitter account to make the announcement.

“As of tomorrow, I am taking a leave of absence from the majority of my responsibilities at WWE. WWE is a lifelong legacy for me and I look forward to returning to the company that I love after taking this time to focus on my family.”

As mentioned in the quote, Stephanie talked about spending more time with her family. Her husband, Triple H, was forced to retire from in-ring action due to a significant heart issue.

Triple H needed to have a defibrillator put in his chest. Many wonder if he’ll even be fully back in the swing of things behind the scenes.

It’s possible that Stephanie is taking a step back to handle more at-home responsibilities with Triple H still having some health problems.

The news is sure to come as a surprise to fans given that Stephanie is the daughter of Vince McMahon. With that said, clearly, there are more important matters to address.

John Morrison’s AEW Status Revealed

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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John Morrison made his AEW debut as “Johnny Elite” but is he a member of the full-time roster?

That question has been answered thanks to a report from PWInsider. The report notes that Morrison is currently not signed to a deal with AEW.

With that said, the promotion is open to having some more appearances from “Johnny Elite.”

Morrison was the “Joker” entrant in the men’s quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Cup. He went one-on-one with ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe. Morrison fell short in the match, getting pinned after taking a Muscle Buster.

After the match, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, and Satnam Singh hit the ring and attacked both men.

Members of CHAOS ran out to make the save.

WWE cut ties with Morrison back in Nov. 2021. He ended up returning to AAA as “Johnny Superstar” before settling on “Johnny Caballero.”

Fans have also witnessed Morrison return to the indies. He had a few matches under the GCW banner.

Update On Bryan Danielson Following AEW Rampage Taping

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

An update has surfaced on Bryan Danielson’s health following a recent AEW Rampage taping.

Fans inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas got quite a scare when Danielson got his leg caught between the entrance ramp and the ring. This occurred at the conclusion of the Rampage taping set to air on May 20.

Danielson was said to have had his leg stuck for a lengthy period of time. Some fans say it was as long as 10 minutes, while others claim it was much shorter.

PWInsider is reporting that Bryan Danielson was “OK” backstage following the situation. The report also notes that there’s no word on the rumor spreading that this may have been a work.

Danielson was able to walk to the back on his own power but he was limping. He remained in character, however, flipping the bird towards Eddie Kingston.

Danielson and Kingston recently got into a shoving match despite being aligned for a program with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society. Danielson attempted to hold Kingston back from going after Jericho on Dynamite, causing friction between the two.

Those tuning into Rampage this Friday night will get to see how the tag team match between Danielson and Moxley vs. Dante Martin and Matt Sydal played out.

AEW Introducing Several New Championship Belts Soon (Spoilers)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Championships don’t exactly come at a premium in wrestling and AEW is no exception.

Voices of Wrestling is reporting that the male and female winners of the Owen Hart Cup will be presented with special titles likely in place of trophies. The report also notes that these titles will have a black and pink theme to honor Owen Hart.

These championships are not expected to be defended.

The following section contains spoilers for the May 20 episode of AEW Rampage.

New Custom TNT Title?

Scorpio Sky TNT Championship
(via AEW)

AEW has already taped the May 20 episode of Rampage. During the show, there was a segment involving TNT Champion Scorpio Sky, Ethan Page, Dan Lambert, Sammy Guevara, and Frankie Kazarian.

At one point, Guevara and Kazarian destroyed Sky’s TNT Championship with a sledgehammer.

This seems to indicate that Sky could be getting a new custom championship soon. Of course, it’s speculation at this point but Sky does love some LA Lakers colors. Could we be seeing a purple and gold spin on the TNT Title?

We already know that AEW is planning to unleash Trios Titles in the future. AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the report from Dave Meltzer during an interview with TSN.

In fact, Khan said that those titles have been created for a while.

The Undertaker’s WrestleMania Streak Nearly Ended in 2009

Jon Fuentes
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The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak nearly ended on a count out back at WrestleMania 25.

What some consider to be the best WrestleMania match of all time, The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michael took place from Houston, Texas’ NRG Stadium in 2009. Undertaker and Michaels put on an absolute classic, with “The Deadman” ultimately coming out on top.

Recently, the man who refereed that match, Marty Elias, was a guest on Chris Jericho’s podcast, “Talk Is Jericho,” During the show, Elias revealed that The Undertaker’s streak almost ended that night due to a count out.

After a spot where Undertaker dove out of the ring, he landed wrong and actually came down on his head. Taker had told Elias if he didn’t make it back into the ring, to actually count him out.

However, Elias was selling a bump he took earlier in the match, and was able to use that to slow his count. Taker was able to get back in the ring and finish the match as planned.

“At WrestleMania 25, when I did my counts on Taker after the dive, that count was a shoot count (When Taker went for the dive, didn’t get caught, and landed on his head).

“The only instruction I ever got out of that match was from Taker. He said, ‘If I don’t get back in, you shoot count me out’, and we came very, very close to counting him out.

“But if you go back and look at that, I was drawing my counts out, and I was drawing 74,000 people in with my counts. I took my time because I was still selling because they had bumped me earlier. So I was still selling that.

“But at the same time, I was still dramatizing it and I was elongating that count. So I was getting the people behind me.

“I was looking at Taker, and Taker and I didn’t make eye contact until nine on the 10 count. So that streak almost ended at WrestleMania 25 on a count out.”

“He was concussed. He had a broken collarbone. He broke his ring finger. So yeah, he was pretty fu*ked up.”

The Streak wouldn’t end for another five years until Brock Lesnar defeated The Undertaker at WrestleMania 30. To this day, the only two men who have ever defeated Undertaker at WrestleMania are Lesnar and Roman Reigns.

Undertaker officially retired from active professional wrestling in November of 2020, making the announcement at Survivor Series. He was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame by Vince McMahon this past April in his home state of Texas.

Quotes via WrestlingNewsCo

Ric Flair Addresses Concerns About In-Ring Return

Jon Fuentes
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0

Ric Flair has addressed those who are concerned about his decision to return to the ring this summer.

Since it was announced that Flair will be making an in-ring return in tag team action on July 31, some have voiced concern about Flair wrestling at his age. Especially given his past health issues. However, Flair addressed these concerns on a recent episode of his podcast.

Flair explained that he has spoken to doctors about wrestling with a pacemaker. The doctors seem to think there’s enough scar tissue around it for Flair to give it a shot.

“The Nature Boy” added that he’s not doing this for money. He just wants to do something he’s done his whole life, something he loves.

“So, I almost died four years ago. I got a pacemaker. I almost died of a blood clot. I had four heart operations in seven weeks. I’m good to go. I will decide on when I want to go.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cdvwu8GtM1J/

“So this is not about the money. This is about me doing what I’ve done my whole life. I watch wrestling every day because I love it, and I respect the guys in it.

“Everybody’s got a different opinion. So I follow one heart doctor that I have the most confidence in, the guy I like the most. I called him and said I wanted to do this. The only thing I was worried about was getting in with a pacemaker.

“He said, ‘Ric, there’s enough scar tissue around that thing now that I believe it’ll hold. If you want to do it, do it.’ That was the answer. That was the only concern.

“The other concern, which I haven’t had in a long time, would have been when I get dizzy because of the equilibrium issue that I have with the inner ear problem, but I haven’t had that since I wrestled Edge in a ladder match.

“So, just a couple of concerns, but I’m not afraid of it. I have more self confidence, which is important for me personally, than I had when I wrestled Shawn, especially because this will be a tag match format.”

The 73-year-old Flair will compete in a tag team match on July 31 inside the Nashville Fairgrounds. Opponents have yet to be announced. The event will air on FITE TV with tickets going on sale May 27.

It is being advertised as Ric Flair’s final match.

Ric Flair’s Last Match

In a press release sent in to SEScoops, Starrcast provides the official details:

“On July 31st, at 6:05pm EDT, ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, who many consider the greatest professional wrestler of all-time, is set to return to the ring, one final time, as part of ‘Jim Crockett Promotions Presents: Ric Flair’s Last Match’ wrestling event.”

“Taking place at the world famous Nashville Fairgrounds, the 16-time former World Heavyweight Champion will don a new custom-made robe and bring the one-of-a-kind showmanship that has made Flair a cultural icon for his over-40 years in the professional wrestling business.”

Tickets for Ric Flair’s Last Match go on sale next Friday, May 27th at RicFlairsLastMatch.com.

Here’s the official hype video for Ric Flair’s Last Match:

Quotes via NoDq.com

Kevin Nash Podcast “Kliq This” Launching in July

Michael Reichlin
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0

WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash is joining the podcast world.

The 6-time World Champion and nWo original is teaming up with Sean Oliver (Kayfabe Commentaries) and Podcast Heat to bring you “Kliq This: The Kevin Nash Podcast.”

The show, which will featured uncensored and unfiltered conversations, premieres July 11th. Kliq This will be available on major audio and video platforms.

Kevin Nas had this to say in a press release sent in to SEScoops:

“Kliq This listeners will get a magical mystery tour into all aspect of life,” said Nash. “No topic is off limits or out of bounds. We will be pop culture driven, but not too timid to attack today’s current cancel culture.”

“Kliq This will be the best of what fans loved about our shoot interviews together, just on a much broader scale,” added Oliver. “Fans will slide up to the bar next to Kevin and me for banter and guests ranging from the stars of wrestling, to entertainment, to music and Lord knows what else.”

Nash and Oliver have worked together extensively for a series of shoot interviews.

Follow @KliqThisPodcast on Twitter for more information on this upcoming show.

Jim Ross Clarifies Comments About Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts’ Health

Thomas Lowson
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0

AEW Commentator Jim Ross has said that he didn’t mean to cause an issue for Jake Roberts after reporting that the former wrestler is in poor health.

Earlier this month, JR reported that Roberts’ health is “not good” but Jake later refuted the claim via tweet.

Speaking on this week’s ‘Grillin’ JR’ podcast, Ross said that Roberts will know his own health better but that he still believes he is dealing with multiple issues.

“I said some stuff about Jake’s health and his breathing issues and he denies as sickly as I portrayed him to be,” Ross said.

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging, he’s got a breathing machine, oxygen he carries with him and to me, that’s not normal but he’s dealing with it. He’s under great doctor’s care and I didn’t want to start some bullsh*t about Jake because it might affect his bookings.”

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging.”

Jim Ross

Roberts’ most recent AEW appearance came on the April 27, Dynamite, where he accompanied Lance Archer for his match with Wardlow.

Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Paul Heyman: Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes “Writes Itself”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Paul Heyman believes that WWE won’t have to work very hard selling fans on Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes.

Since making his return to WWE, Cody has been treated as a massive star on the Raw brand. The company went as far as to feature a countdown clock for Cody’s appearance on the May 16 episode of Raw.

It’s become quite clear that WWE is all in on Cody Rhodes.

Tribal Chief vs. The American Nightmare

During an appearance on 98.5’s Wrestling Inside The Ropes, the Special Counsel to the “Tribal Chief,” Paul Heyman, expressed his belief that Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes would be an easy story to tell (h/t 411Mania.com).

“Cody [Rhodes], is not only someone with, with an extensive legacy but I mean, my God, he’s the son of the American Dream, Dusty Rhodes, but he has carved out his niche. He’s achieved his accomplishments.

“And when he couldn’t gain enough traction in WWE to become a legend, to become a first-ballot Hall of Famer, to become a WWE or universal or unified heavyweight champion, he went out on his own.

“He blazed his trail.

“He created something, co-created, and helped create something that completely changed the complexion of the industry. And now he comes back to claim what he feels is his moment. And the only way that he’s going to be able to live that moment is to step into the ring with the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.

“What it’s a story that writes itself and, and, and Cody Rhodes is a magnificent talent who, whether he is, and he is the son of Dusty Rhodes, but whether he is, or isn’t the son of Dusty Rhodes on his own, just as Joe blow, not as big a name as Cody Rhodes, but still he could take the name, Joe Blow, and he could become huge box office.

“There is, I was dissatisfied with the landscape in the industry and I decided to change it myself. And that’s what Cody Rhodes did. He was dissatisfied with the landscape of the sports entertainment industry, and he went out on his own and, and along with others, uh, he changed it himself and he changed it along with the various people that, that, that collaborated to create a new landscape in the industry.

“So, yes, there are parallels.”

Cody hasn’t been shy in teasing a match with the “Head of the Table.” He has said that the match is certainly there.

Reigns has done his part in subtly hyping things up as well. He destroyed a Cody Rhodes fan sign after the April 11 episode of Raw went off the air.

Cody’s main goal is to capture the WWE Championship. It’s a title that Reigns holds as he is the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Toni Storm Says Charlotte Flair Pie Angle is Better Than Originally Pitched Idea

Thomas Lowson
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AEW’s Toni Storm may not have enjoyed being doused with pastries in WWE, but it was far better than the company’s original idea.

The former NXT UK Women’s Champion was called up to SmackDown in July 2021 but was granted her requested release in December that same year.

Prior to her departure, Storm feuded with then-SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair and was covered in pie on the November 26, SmackDown.

Appearing on this latest ‘AEW Unrestricted,’ Storm was asked about the angle and said it was originally pitched for her to have her clothes ripped off.

“The original idea was I was asked if I was comfortable with having my shirt ripped off or something. They wanted to do this whole angle where it was like they were going to rip my shirt and I would be embarrassed in my underwear, I guess. I don’t know. When you’re asked if you feel comfortable doing that, and it’s like literally people are being fired every single week, it’s like, ‘Oh, yeah.’

“So to be honest, the pie was actually a sweet treat in comparison to what it could have been. In hindsight, I didn’t really mind. You know what? People think I’m so mad about that. I think it’s hilarious.”

“When you’re asked if you feel comfortable doing that [Having your clothes ripped off,] and it’s like literally people are being fired every single week, it’s like, ‘Oh, yeah.’”

Toni Storm

Storm added that after her WWE release, she considered herself done with wrestling, believing she would have to “leave forever.”

The New Zealand-Australian is currently competing in the Owen Hart Women’s Foundation Tournament and will face Britt Baker in the semi-finals.

Thanks to Wrestling News for the transcription.

Former WWE Referee Slams Ric Flair For Having One More Match

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A former WWE referee has taken issue with Ric Flair having one final match.

Flair has been announced to have one more match on July 31. He was rumored to face Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat in some capacity, likely a tag team match.

Steamboat took to a Highspots autograph signing to reveal that he was offered the match but declined it.

Ric Flair’s In-Ring Return Blasted

Former WWE referee Brian Hebner took to the Refin’ It Up podcast to share his belief that Ric Flair has made a “stupid” decision getting back in the ring at the age of 73 (h/t WrestlingNews.co).

“Ric Flair, I love you, but what the fu*k are you thinking?

“This man is 73 years old. He has a pacemaker and is not in the best of health or in the best of shape. I’m sorry. I don’t see anything exciting about this to me at all. Nothing.”

“Now if he was coming out in gimmick to walk down the aisle with his daughter or something like that, fine. This, to me, is ridiculous. It really is,” he continued.

“I know how my father is, and I can almost bet you my father is in better health than Ric Flair. They’re probably equal on alcoholic. But I can tell you right now, I see my dad do his thing, which is nowhere near what Ric Flair is going to have to do, which is take a bump, get up, feed, or whatever he’s going to do.”

“Like I said, I love Ric Flair, but I think this is going to tarnish more than it’s going to be helping his legacy. I’m just not excited about it. I really think it’s stupid. If it’s about money, I guess you got to do what you got to do, but to me, there’s nothing positive about this. Not one thing.”

Flair’s last match is being promoted by Starrcast. It’ll take place inside the Nashville Fairgrounds.

The special event will be airing live on FITE TV.

Update On Naomi’s WWE Contract

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Some information on Naomi’s WWE contract has surfaced.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio is reporting that Naomi’s deal with WWE is set to expire in the near future. An exact date is unknown but it’s close.

She had been negotiating an extension before walking out of the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw. It’s been said that this could’ve played a factor in Naomi’s decision to join Sasha Banks in walking out.

In an exclusive interview, Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE, told SEScoops’ Steve Fall that she believes Naomi was manipulated into leaving the arena with Sasha.

Ariane offered to reunite with her former tag team partner to avoid the “foolishness.”

Naomi and Sasha are the current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. They were supposed to be featured on a six-pack challenge this past Monday. PWInsider reports Naomi was going to win the match before her walkout.

The plan was for Naomi to challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha would’ve challenged Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.

Both Naomi and Sasha were expected to lose those title matches.

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