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Bryan Danielson Suffers Freak Accident At AEW Rampage Taping (Video)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Bryan Danielson found himself in a precarious situation at Wednesday’s AEW Rampage taping.

Danielson and Jon Moxley took on Dante Martin and Matt Sydal in the main event, which is set to air on May 20. After the match, Danielson and Moxley had a brawl with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society.

Danielson had a scary moment when his leg got caught between the ring and the entrance ramp. It was said that Danielson’s leg had been stuck for over 10 minutes. He was limping once he got free.

Here’s video of the incident courtesy of Nick Swanson.

Twitter user @mutalockz provided another angle:

Danielson was featured on the May 18 episode of Dynamite but he hadn’t wrestled until the Rampage taping. During Dynamite, he had a segment that ended in him and Eddie Kingston shoving each other over a disagreement.

We’ll keep you posted once more information is available.

The Rock Gives More Info on XFL’s Deal With Disney, ESPN, ABC, FX

Anutosh Bajpai
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The Rock has provided some more details on XFL’s deal with Disney that will see the football league airing on various Disney platforms.

The People’s champion shared a post on Instagram. He mentioned how he has built a relationship with Disney over the years.

The Rock then revealed that the first season of XFL in 2023 will have a total of 43 games including the playoffs. These will air across ESPN, ABC and FX:

“Starting in 2023, all 43 XFL games including playoffs + championship game will air across @ESPN, @ABC and for the first time ever, pro football will run on FX.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdtwIrtPqwP/?igshid=NDBlY2NjN2I=

The Journey of XFL

XFL was originally founded back in 2001 as a joint venture between WWE and NBC. The venture ceased operation after just one season due to poor ratings.

Vince McMahon tried to revive the league back in 2020. However, after only five weeks of play in its inaugural season, it had to be halted again due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In August that year, Dwyane ‘The Rock’ Johnson, alongside some other business partners purchased the XFL for $15 million. XFL is currently planning to make a return in 2023 and this deal with Disney is a positive step in that direction.

Spoiler: Former WWE Star Makes Appearance On AEW Rampage

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A former WWE talent wrestled during the AEW Rampage taping set to air on May 20.

After Dynamite went off the air, Rampage was filmed inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas. Shawn Spears was in action but his opponent hadn’t been revealed ahead of time.

That’s because the opponent was a bit of a surprise.

Big Damo, formerly known as Killian Dain in WWE, wrestled against Spears. Damo ended up falling short in the match.

Spears’ victory is to continue his reputation of being a giant killer before he faces Wardlow. Something tells us Spears’ luck is about to run out.

Check out a couple of images of Big Damo’s AEW debut (via Wrestleism).

https://twitter.com/wrestleism/status/1527116489052102656

Damo was released by WWE back in June 2021. The company sighted budget reasons as the cause of his exit.

Damo struggled to get back to work in the wrestling business due to visa issues. It has become clear that those issues are now a thing of the past as he has been booked for several shows and of course, appeared on AEW Rampage.

Maki Itoh Returns To AEW For Owen Hart Cup

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Maki Itoh has made her return to an AEW ring.

Britt Baker was set for action in a quarterfinal match in the Owen Hart Cup. Going into the May 18 episode of AEW Dynamite, Baker’s opponent was a mystery. She was to go one-on-one with the “Joker” entry.

That mystery opponent was Maki Itoh.

Itoh fell short in her efforts against Baker, tapping out to Lockjaw. After the match, Toni Storm made her way out. Storm will meet Baker in the semifinals.

Peep Itoh’s surprise return below:

Johnny Elite Makes AEW Debut As The “Joker” Entrant In Owen Hart Cup

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Cup kicked off AEW Dynamite on May 18 and the “Joker” entrant was Johnny Elite.

Yes, the former John Morrison has made his way to AEW. He shared the ring with ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe.

Johnny Elite ended up losing the match via pinfall. After the match, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, and Satnam Singh attacked both men. Members of CHAOS ran out to make the save.

Check out his promotional debut:

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1527077285089759232

Johnny was released from WWE back in Nov. 2021. The promotion used budget cuts as the reason for giving him his walking papers.

He made his return to AAA as Johnny Superstar. He quickly underwent another name change, referring to himself as “Johnny Caballero.”

Johnny also dabbled into the indies again, making appearances for GCW.

AJ Lee Looking Shredded As She Begins Commentary Work for WOW

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AJ Lee may have no plans to get back inside the ring but she’s kept herself in outstanding shape.

The first set of TV tapings for the relaunch of WOW has been completed. AJ is an Executive Producer for the promotion. She also serves as a color commentator.

AJ Lee Stays Shredded

Taking to her Twitter account, AJ Lee showed off her phenomenal physique following the WOW TV tapings.

On the surface, one might think AJ would be good to go for an in-ring return. Back in Oct. 2021, she spoke to superfan Izzy on behalf of WOW.

During the interview, AJ didn’t rule out an in-ring return but she said her joy moving forward comes from allowing new talent to shine.

“So I will say, I say the same thing in every interview. It’s always, ‘never say never,’ but don’t hold your breath. And what I mean by that is that I never say never to anything.

“Physically, mentally, emotionally I’m healed from everything I’ve gone through in wrestling. I could technically do it, but I am so enjoying letting the next generation have their spotlight. I got to do everything I wanted to do so it really would have to be is that challenge there? I don’t think the girls need me there.

“I think that they are going to take over the world all by themselves.”

AJ Lee had her final match back in April 2015. It appears no injury would hold her back from returning, which was initially feared seven years ago.

AEW Dynamite Results (5/18/22): CM Punk & Hangman Page, Owen Hart Tournament, MJF & Wardlow

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired live from the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas. The Owen Hart Tournament continued tonight and MJF gave Wardlow his 10 Lashes ahead of their match at AEW Double or Nothing on May 29th.

AEW Dynamite Results

  • Samoa Joe def. Johnny Elite to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Hangman Page def. Konosuke Takeshita
  • Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland def. The Workhorsemen
  • Kyle O’Reilly def. Rey Fenix to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Britt Baker def. Maki Itoh to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Adam Cole def. Jeff Hardy to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament

Here are the takeaways from this week’s Dynamite:

Samoa Joe Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe battled Johnny Elite (FKA John Morrison) in the quarter-finals of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Joe controlled the match early and beat Johnny down in the corner. Johnny Elite battled back as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

Back in the ring, Samoa Joe leveled Johnny Elite with a shoulder tackle. Samoa Joe followed it up with an Atomic Drop and a Senton for a near fall. Joe then connected with the Muscle Buster for the pinfall victory. Samoa Joe has advanced in the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. After the match, Satnam Singh, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt rushed the ring and attacked Joe. Best Friends made the save and the heels retreated to end the segment.

Hangman Page Sent A Message To CM Punk

AEW Champion Hangman Page faced Konosuke Takeshita tonight on Dynamite. CM Punk joined commentary for the match and will battle Page for the title at Double or Nothing on May 29th.

Hangman controlled the action early and took a break to pose for the crowd outside the ring. Konosuke capitalized with a Splash and rolled the champion back into the ring. They battled on the apron until Hangman took control. Hangman knocked him to the floor and hit a Moonsault as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, the battle continued and both men connected with a Clothesline at the same time as the crowd chanted “AEW!”. Takeshita dominated the next few minutes but Hangman caught him with a forearm to the face. Hangman Page followed it up with a Buckshot Lariat and then the GTS as Punk smiled on commentary. Page then covered Takeshita for the pinfall victory.

After the match, the two posed for the crowd and CM Punk got the much bigger reaction from the crowd. Hangman circled Punk before storming away to end the segment.

AEW Tag Title Match Announced For Double Or Nothing

Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland faced The Workhorsemen tonight on Dynamite. Strickland and Lee dominated the action and won with a Powerbomb/ Double Stomp combo on JD Drake. After the match, Keith Lee grabbed the microphone and said that they have become a top 5 ranked tag team.

Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs interrupted said they wanted a title shot before them. Christian Cage came to the entrance ramp with AEW Tag Team Champions Jurassic Express. Cage suggested a Triple Threat match at AEW Tag Team Championships at Double or Nothing.

MJF & Shawn Spears Attacked Wardlow

MJF and Shawn Spears came down to the ring to a chorus of boos. Maxwell pretended to throw up while mentioning Houston and the crowd loudly chanted “asshole”. MJF brought up Wardlow and said that he cannot retaliate during the lashes or he doesn’t get the match at DoN, and can never sign a contract in AEW.

Wardlow was escorted to the ring by security and MJF hit him with the whip. Wardlow laughed and MJF hit him again. Wardlow was still laughing and MJF took off his jacket. MJF hit him with a bunch of lashes in a row but Wardlow wouldn’t budge. Maxwell threw a tantrum and Spears held him back.

Spears hit him with the 8th and 9th lash. Wardlow got fired up and got in MJF’s face to let him know he only has one more. MJF hit Wardlow with a low blow and a few more lashes. Maxwell put on the Dynamite Diamond ring and punched Wardlow in the face with it. Spears then hit Wardlow with the C4 and covered him as MJF made the count.

Kyle O’Reilly Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Kyle O’Reilly battled Rey Fenix tonight in an Owen Hart Tournament match. Fenix controlled the action early but O’Reilly battled back and sent him to the outside. O’Reilly focused his attack on Fenix’s shoulder and slammed into the ring post as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, O’Reilly kept focusing his attack on Fenix’s arm but Rey battled back with some kicks. O’Reilly connected with a Butterfly Suplex and went for a Wrist Lock but Fenix escaped. Rey hit a Hurricanrana off the apron and to the floor before rolling Kyle back into the ring. O’Reilly took Rey down to the mat and got him in an armbar for the submission victory.

Regal & Jericho Face-To-Face

Blackpool Combat Club, Eddie Kingston, Santana, Ortiz came to the ring for the face-to-face confrontation with Chris Jericho. Chris called Bryan Danielson a “squeaky clean nerd” and joked about Regal & Moxley being alcoholics. Regal admitted that Jericho said some truths about his past. Regal joked that he used to stick Jericho’s toothbrush up his ass while they worked together.Jericho was about to suggest a Stadium Stampede match but Moxley interrupted. Jon suggested a 5 vs. 5 match and Kingston wanted a fight tonight. Jericho Appreciation Society opted to just walk backstage instead.

Thunder Rosa & Serena Deeb Brawled Before Their Title Match At Double or Nothing

Tony Schiavone came to the ring to talk about Double or Nothing reaching its three year anniversary when he was interrupted by Serena Deeb. Serena noted that Tony picked Thunder Rosa to defeat her at the PPV and called him a failure. Deeb added that she has been through hell in this business, shaved her head, and challenged Tony to have the balls to explain why he picked Thunder Rosa.

Deeb slapped Schiavone and Dustin Rhodes appeared to try to break things up. Deeb scolded Dustin until AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa made her way to the ring. A brawl broke out and Deeb hit Thunder Rosa with the title. Thunder Rosa will defend the AEW Women’s Championship against Serena Deeb at Double or Nothing.

Britt Baker Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Britt Baker battled Miki Itoh in the Owen Hart Women’s Foundation Tournament. Maki Itoh was revealed to be The Joker. Baker bounced Maki’s head off the turnbuckle but she no-sold it. Maki then hit her own head off the turnbuckle several times to fire herself up and shoved Baker to the mat. Britt eventually battled back and applied the Lockjaw for the submission victory. After the match, Toni Storm showed up on the entrance ramp for a stare down. Baker and Storm will battle next in the tournament.

Adam Cole Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Jeff Hardy faced Adam Cole in the semifinals of the Owen Hart Tournament and it was tonight’s main event. Matt Hardy was ringside for the match. Adam Cole attacked Jeff Hardy during his entrance and beat him down before Dynamite went to the final commercial break of the night.

When Dynamite returned, Hardy connected with a flying Clothesline off the apron and brought Cole back into the ring. Jeff hit a Jawbreaker and went for the cover but Cole kicke out at two. Hardy elbowed Cole in the face and climbed to the top rope. Cole dodged the Swanton Bomb and hit Hardy with the Boom for the pinfall victory. Adam Cole advanced in the Owen Hart Tournament.

After the match, Young Bucks rushed the ring and were about to attack The Hardys. Darby Allin and Sting made the save but Undisputed Elite beat them down. Undisputed Elite put Sting’s leg in a chair and bashed it to close the show.

Edge Drops Big Tease On Potential New Member Of The Judgment Day

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Edge may have found the newest member of The Judgment Day.

Since starting his own faction, the former “Rated-R Superstar” has been on a roll. He has enlisted Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley to The Judgment Day.

During the May 9 episode of Monday Night Raw, he said there’s room for another member.

Tommaso Ciampa
(via WWE)

Is Ciampa Bound For The Judgment Day?

WWE fans online have been pushing for Ciampa to join The Judgment Day. It’s clear that Edge has heard the feedback and he dropped a big tease on Twitter:

Of course, this could just be Edge stirring the pot. With that said, adding Ciampa may not be such a bad idea since he seems to have gone heel since being brought up to the main roster.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reported that Edge had wanted Harland to join his faction. The only problem is that Harland ended up being released from his NXT contract.

During the May 16 episode of Raw, Edge made an offer to AJ Styles, Finn Balor, and Liv Morgan to join his group. He urged the three to strongly consider the offer and insisted it isn’t too late.

Edge said that if his offer is turned down, then The Judgment Day will continue to make their time on Raw miserable.

Update On Kenny Omega

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Former AEW World Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega has been out of action for months but he isn’t totally out of the picture.

Omega was last seen on AEW TV during the post-Full Gear episode of Dynamite. He had just lost the world title to Hangman Page and he told fellow members of The Elite, Young Bucks & Adam Cole, that he needed some time off.

He left The Young Bucks in charge of the group, not Cole.

Kenny Omega
Kenny Omega (Photo: Scott Lesh)

Latest On Kenny Omega

PWInsider is reporting that Kenny Omega has actually been present backstage at AEW TV tapings over the past few weeks. He’s also reportedly been producing some of the women’s matches.

At this time, there is still no word on when Omega will be able to return to action.

Omega had been battling a slew of injuries, which explains the time off. The most severe injury was a hernia issue, which Omega had been on a waitlist for surgery. He also underwent arthroscopic knee surgery.

Neck problems have also plagued the “Best Bout Machine.”

Secret Agent Ric Flair is Saving the World in new Comic Book

Thomas Lowson
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Ric Flair is trading his robes and titles for a tuxedo and dried martini (shaken not stirred!) in a new comic about the Nature Boy.

The comic ‘CODENAME: Ric Flair’ will launch this summer, with a special preview of the project this weekend at Megacon Orlando.

The comic is based on the 1975 plane crash that nearly ended Flair’s career but starts a double-life as a secret agent after being healed by doctors.

“Richard Fliehr, a mild-mannered professional wrestler, almost dies in a small twin engine plane on the way to a regional wrestling match. The doctors not only save his life – they rebuild him better than before. Treatment makes him stronger than ever and Fliehr is reborn as Ric Flair aka Nature Boy®, who must now use his wrestling persona as cover while he works to save the world as secret agent Nature Boy®.”

Flair will be at Megacon Orlando this weekend to promote the comic, which will launch later this year on Kickstarter.

Flair and Comic Books

wwe royal rumble comic flair
Flair’s 1992 Royal Rumble match win from the #3 entrant was covered in a 2018 Royal Rumble Special Edition comic.

This may be Flair’s first time as a secret agent, but the Nature Boy is no stranger to comics.

As part of WCW, Flair was often part of the comics tied to the company which saw him feud with some of the biggest names in wrestling, both on-screen and on the page.

In a 2018 WWE Royal Rumble special comic, Flair’s iconic victory in the 1992 Rumble match was covered.

Ric Flair’s Last Match Set for July 31st

John Cena Teases WWE Return: “I’ve Been Gone for Too Long”

Michael Reichlin
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John Cena says he’s been gone from WWE for too long and hopes to return sometime in the near future.

The 16-time world champion was in NYC on Wednesday for Warner Bros. Discovery’s upfronts event, where TV networks pitch their upcoming lineups to prospective advertisers. Cena was on hand to promote the new season of his game show Wipeout that airs on TBS.

John Cena Warner Bros. Discovery Upfronts 2022

John Cena Talks WWE Return

Street journalist Adam Glyn caught up with Cena on Wednesday and addressed the upcoming 20th anniversary of John Cena’s WWE television debut.

Cena’s WWE debut took place on the June 27, 2022 edition of SmackDown, when he answered an open challenge by Kurt Angle. Even though he came up short that night, he earned the respect of The Undertaker, who greeted him backstage and shook his hand in a sign of respect.

Cena says he knows the 20th anniversary milestone is fast approaching.

“I know in WWE years I turn 20 pretty soon, so that’s a pretty big thing, and from a pretty storied class of folks: Batista, Randy Orton, Brock who kind of all turned 20 this year,” said Cena I’m aware that that’s coming around the corner — and who knows?” 

Cena still loves wrestling, but he’s got a lot of projects going on and it’s hard to turn down opportunities that present themselves.

That said, Cena admits he’s been gone for “too long” and hopes to be back in the mix with WWE sooner than later.

“I don’t know when I’ll be back but hopefully it’s soon. I’ve been gone for too long.”

– John Cena

Cena’s most recent televised match occurred last year at SummerSlam, when he lost to Roman Reigns. Back in September, as last year’s ‘Summer of Cena’ was winding down, he competed in a 6-man tag match at Madison Square Garden house show. Cena and the Mysterios defeated The Bloodline.

What’s Next for Cena?

If and when John Cena does return to WWE, he’s got a high-profile feud waiting for him. Theory, the reigning United States Champion, has been talking about Cena a lot lately.

Below, you can check out some of our recent coverage of Theory calling out Cena:

Cody Rhodes Hopes To Bring Prestige Back To WWE Intercontinental Championship

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Cody Rhodes’ ultimate goal is to capture the WWE Championship but if he reunites with IC gold, he has big plans for it.

For many WWE fans, Cody’s first Intercontinental title reign is looked back on fondly. During that period, Rhodes brought back the old design of the IC gold with the white strap.

That became the main design before WWE switched things up with a brand new look in Nov. 2019.

Back To Old Glory

There was a time in WWE when the Intercontinental Championship was a big deal. Many top faces in the WWF’s golden era treated it as the world title since Hulk Hogan was a mainstay at the top.

For many years now, the IC Title has been treated as an afterthought. The current champion, Ricochet, wasn’t even featured on the WrestleMania Backlash card.

During an interview with WWE UK, Cody Rhodes said that if he so happens to get his hands on the Intercontinental Title again, he’ll make it his goal to bring it back to past glory (h/t Inside The Ropes).

“The Intercontinental run was a massive, massive deal for me because I felt like it put me in the position to continue up the card. I think if I was to have the IC Title now, I would be less interested in my own selfish climbing up of the card and more putting the Intercontinental Title on a pedestal.

“That’s a bit of a calling card of mine. There’s a saying in the industry ‘the belt can make the man, or the man can make the belt.’ I know that’s not the popular nomenclature that WWE uses, Title, Championship, it’s all the same in terms of what you can do for it. I think I could do wonders for it.

“My goal is the WWE Championship but there’s a lot of roads to get there. No pun intended. If it runs through the Intercontinental Title I would be more than proud to carry one of the industry’s most prestigious Championships.”

Rhodes is currently involved in a feud with Seth Rollins. Cody is 2-0 over Rollins and the two will collide once more at Hell in a Cell on June 5.

Jim Ross Says He Has Signed An Extension With AEW

Joey Galizia
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Jim Ross is remaining with AEW.

The WWE Hall of Famer revealed during the the latest episode of his Grillin JR podcast that he has signed an extension with the company, and will continue to call matches for the foreseeable future.

After his announcement Ross expresses his gratitude to AEW President Tony Khan for keeping him around (the extension is for a year-and-a-half) and allowing him to continue doing what he loves.

“I don’t think we’ve made this announcement, but I signed an extension with AEW not too long ago. I appreciate Tony Khan’s confidence and his willingness to keep me on the team and contribute. We’re not going a long time, but I think I signed for about a year and a half or something like that to stay in the position I’m in. I’m just really pleased that at 70, I still have a future, and at 70, I’m still loving what I do.”

Ross originally signed with AEW back in April of 2019, and has been at the desk, along with Excalibur, since the promotion’s first-ever event, Double or Nothing. He adds that if he makes it to 2024 it will mark 50 years in the pro-wrestling industry.

“I want to get to 2024. I really do. That’s 50 years in the wrestling business. Not a lot of guys can say that they’re in the same job in a fickle, crazy-ass, unpredictable business like pro wrestling for 50 years. The good lord is looking down and cutting me a break, and if I can get to 50 [years in wrestling], I’ll be the happiest guy in Norman, Oklahoma.”

Aside from commentary Ross occasionally conducts backstage interviews, with key focus being placed on superstars and feuds ahead of AEW’s big pay-per-views. Expect Ross to continue this over the next year as AEW approaches this year’s Double or Nothing on May 29th.

(Quotes 411 Mania)

MJF Touts All the Stars Produced by WWE’s Performance Center

Thomas Lowson
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AEW’s MJF has praised the work of WWE’s Performance Center and the various Superstars who got their start at the Florida venue.

The WWE Performance Center opened its doors in July 2013, with a second branch opening six years later in London, England.

On Twitter, MJF highlighted the success of Pat Buck and Brian Myers’ Create A Pro wrestling school, calling the school where he learned “where Real wrestlers are taught Real wrestling.”

When a fan responded by saying that the Performance Center has tied up millions of dollars and produced no one, MJF fired back, listing stars including Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair, former WWE Champion Big E among others.

https://twitter.com/chromekirito/status/1526955201810182144

Will fans see MJF in the PC next?

WWE’s Performance Center has seen plenty of stars arrive, but MJF could one day walk into the Florida venue himself.

MJF and AEW President Tony Khan have reportedly been at odds, with the “Salt of the Earth” openly teasing joining WWE.

Whether WWE would have MJF go to the Performance Center or head straight to the main roster (a la Cody Rhodes) is hard to say.

MJF’s contract with AEW expires in January 2024 and has been opposed to having his current contract extended.

Jeff Hardy Talks Potentially Renewing CM Punk Rivalry In AEW

Jon Fuentes
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Jeff Hardy thinks there’s a story to be told between himself and CM Punk in All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

Hardy and Punk feuded with one another over the WWE World Heavyweight Championship back in 2009. This was Hardy’s final feud before his contract expired, and he’d eventually sign with TNA.

Now, over a decade later, both Hardy and Punk find themselves competing on the same brand again. This time, with AEW. Hardy and Punk’s rivalry was an extremely entertaining one, and fans would surely love to see it continue over on AEW TV.

Speaking on a recent appearance on the “Wrestling With Freddie” podcast, Hardy talked about a “moment” between himself and Punk on AEW TV that is likely inevitable.

“[Winning the World Championship] was like a little boy’s dream come true, man. God, and then to do it over and over again. One of my favorite things, as far as being the World Champion, was working with CM Punk.

“It’s so crazy that we’re in the same company now and there’s a huge moment between me and Punk. It’s going to come, I’m sure.

“I think there’s a huge moment, just in the hallway, like me and Matt beat The Young Bucks or whatever at whatever pay-per-view is coming up, or whatever happens, but then we run into him, and me and punk just have a face-off.”

For now, Hardy and Punk are on different paths in their respective AEW journeys. Punk is actually gearing up to face Hangman Page for the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) World Championship.

They’ll go head-to-head at the Double Or Nothing pay-per-view (PPV) on May 29. Perhaps once Punk’s feud with Page comes to a close an opportunity to work against Hardy will present itself.

Quotes via Fightful

Matt Hardy Reveals Who He’d Want Inducting Him Into WWE HOF

Jon Fuentes
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When the inevitable day comes, Matt Hardy knows who he wants inducting him into the WWE Hall Of Fame.

While Hardy might not compete in WWE today, there’s no denying the plethora of accomplishments he’s had under the promotion’s banner during his several runs with them. He and his brother, Jeff, are one-half of what some argue to be the greatest tag team of all time.

Between the pair, they have nine Tag Team Titles, while Matt Hardy has 11 in total with two additional partners. As a singles competitor in WWE, Hardy is a former ECW Champion, Hardcore Champion, European Champion, United States Champion, and Cruiserweight Champion.

All that being said, Hardy is a sure-fire Hall Of Famer when the time comes. Speaking on his podcast, “The Extreme Life Of Matt Hardy,” Hardy, a current All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star, said he believes he and Jeff will eventually be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame.

“I think so, yeah, I feel very confident about that,” Hardy said. “I think that would be fitting, obviously, we’re a deserving team and Jeff would be deserving on his own.

“I think there’s a lot of cases that could be made that I am very deserving on my own as well, 100%, considering some of the people that are in there. So, who am I kidding? I’m being very humble here. I could definitely go in on my own.

Hardy then discussed who he’d like to induct them when the time comes. When it comes to he and Jeff as a tag team, Hardy picked the man that helped he and Jeff out upon their early days in WWE – current WWE producer Michael “P.S.” Hayes.

“I feel like the most fitting person to induct us would be the guy who we learned the most from, who really helped us when we first started becoming a success in pro wrestling, and that would be Michael Hayes.”

However, as a singles competitor, Hardy mentioned he could see his brother, Jeff; MVP, or even Bray Wyatt as possibilities as well.

“I could see it being MVP,” Hardy said. “Bray Wyatt would also be interesting, too. Put the Fiend out there.”

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

Sasha Banks & Naomi Leaving WWE Raw Was “Not A Work”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A current WWE play-by-play ace insists that Sasha Banks and Naomi legitimately walked out on the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw.

WWE officials couldn’t have expected pivoting as much as they did on such short notice. The plan was set for Sasha and Naomi to participate in a number one contender match for Bianca Belair’s Raw Women’s Championship.

This was to be a six-pack challenge.

Instead, WWE found itself without its Women’s Tag Team Champions. PWInsider reported that following a disagreement over Vince McMahon’s creative direction, Sasha Banks made her exit mid-show and Naomi followed.

SEScoops had an exclusive interview with Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE. She used to team with Naomi and expressed her belief that she was manipulated by Sasha into leaving the building.

WWE went as far as to issue a statement and even mentioned the situation on-air. While this reportedly is not a work, that hasn’t stopped some fans from compiling conspiracy theories.

“This Is Not A Work”

WWE Raw play-by-play commentator Jimmy Smith took to his Unlocking The Cage podcast to make it clear that the situation involving Sasha Banks and Naomi is as real as it gets.

“This is not a work. This really actually happened. From everything — I wasn’t there, I was calling the show — I’ve been told, everything the WWE is saying happened.

“Now obviously there are many sides to a story. I don’t know why Naomi and Sasha Banks walked out. I’ve heard rumors, but I’m not gonna repeat them just because it’s innuendo. I don’t know.

“But my point is, a lot of people when this was first released on Instagram, half the comments were, ‘Ah, this is a work.’ It’s not. This legitimately happened.

“One thing that you will see in the WWE, generally, in the time I’ve been there, is when they say this is our main event, something goofy may happen in that event, something goofy may change or there might be slight differences.

“They’re not going to say this is our main event and pull the rug out from under you. They will not advertise a main event and pull it out from under you. They want to know that you as an audience member will generally get the match that you thought you were gonna get.

“You stuck around till 10:45 to watch this match, that’s what you’re gonna see. What’s upsetting to the people behind the scenes on this one is they advertised the main event.

“I got up there on a microphone and Corey Graves to my left said, ‘Tonight, [women’s six-pack challenge],’ and then we sat down and we, meaning the WWE, all of us, couldn’t deliver that main event.

“Not happy about that.”

Naomi was reportedly set to win the six-pack challenge and face Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha was expected to meet Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.

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

Quotes via Fightful

Former WWE Stars & Controversial MMA Fighter Set For WES On June 4

Tyriece Simon
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0

Former WWE talent Adam Scherr (Braun Strowman) and former UFC fighter Alistair Overeem will collide at Wrestling Entertainment Series.

On May. 13, former WWE tag team Legion of Pain (Authors of Pain) announced that their wrestling promotion WES would have an event on June 4 on FITE TV at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, England.

Legion of Pain shared that they would be making their in-ring return for their first event. However, they didn’t share who else would be on the card.

The WES website has now revealed all of the matches that will take place on the card, including the main event between Scherr and Overeem for the World Championship.

This marks the first wrestling match for Overeem, who has been open about not liking what he’s seen from professional wrestling like WWE.

Another match on the card is former WWE talents Lina Fanene (Nia Jax) vs. CJ Perry (Lana) for the Women’s Championship.

Alistair Overeem Weigh In
Image Credit: UFC.com

Overeem on WWE and Professional Wrestling Today

Overeem spoke publicly on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani about his thoughts on wrestling, mainly WWE, last year. He shared that he grew up watching WWE and liked Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior but stopped watching as he got older.

“I watched it when I was 19 years old. Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, huge fans of those guys. Honky Tonk Man, great, funny,” said Overeem. He continued, “…I stopped watching after that, so I’m not watching since 92, 93, 94 and just recently I started looking again on Youtube, and oh my god this stuff is lame.

“It’s just lame with all these guys are doing, it’s fake, it’s lame, it’s stupid.” Overeem said something after “it’s stupid,” but it was edited out.

During the live interview, Overeem did indeed label pro wrestling as “gay.” Helwani told Overeem to not say that, which the former UFC fighter said why and continued to share that he thought what he has seen recently of wrestling from WWE content is lame.

When asked by Helwani if he thinks professional wrestlers are athletes, he expressed again that it is lame. It’s unclear if Overeem has watched any wrestling outside of WWE or if he changed his stance on wrestling today.

The Wrestling Entertainment Series Card (6/4)

The first WES card will have eight matches. Two of the matches will be on the pre-show.

  • Adam Scherr vs. Alistair Overeem for the World Championship-Main Event
  • Lina Fanene vs. C.J Perry for the Women’s Championship-Co-Main Event
  • Legion of Pain vs. Wesley Blake and Steve Maclin for the World Tag Team Championship
  • Killer Kross vs. Samuray Del Sol vs. Jonah
  • Madison Rayne and Tenille Dashwood vs. Deonna Purrazzo and Chelsea Green for the World Women’s Tag Team Championship
  • Dean Muhtadi vs. Lince Dorado
  • Mike Bennett vs. Biff Busick-Pre-Show
  • Dirty Dango vs. Levis Valenzuela Jr.-Pre-Show

The card isn’t available on FITE TV as of this writing for pre-order. We will update when it gets updated.

Bully Ray Wonders If Noami Is Bound For The Bloodline After Walking Out Of WWE Raw

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Bully Ray has shared his thoughts on Sasha Banks and Noami walking out of WWE Raw, attacking the story from different angles.

WWE was left scrambling during the May 16 episode of Raw. The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions were supposed to be involved in a six-pack challenge, which was set to feature Sasha, Naomi, Asuka, Becky Lynch, Nikki A.S.H., and Doudrop.

As first reported by PWInsider, Sasha and Naomi walked out mid-show. WWE issued a statement confirming that the two left their titles on the desk of John Laurinaitis and left the building.

WWE pivoted and booked Asuka vs. Becky with the winner facing Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Asuka won the match.

Naomi Set Up For The Bloodline?

During an edition of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray admitted that he doesn’t know whether or not Sasha and Naomi leaving was a work.

It’s safe to say he hopes that it was, however, as he sees huge potential in Naomi joining her husband Jimmy Uso as well as Jey Uso and Roman Reigns in The Bloodline.

“Hey, maybe this is all one giant story to split these girls up and get Naomi into The Bloodline. Don’t know. If it’s a work, I love it already. This is Heyman-esque level, pay attention to details work.”

If it isn’t a work, however, Bully Ray believes that is a big no-no on the part of Sasha and Naomi.

“The way I was brought up in this business, you don’t walk out. You find a way to compromise. And if they were uncomfortable with something, I’m sure, in those eight hours, could’ve come up with ways to compromise so that they wouldn’t feel uncomfortable in the ring. It sounds like somebody was uncomfortable with the outcome of the match.”

Naomi’s close friend and former tag team partner, Ariane Andrew (Cameron), spoke to SEScoops’ Steve Fall in an exclusive interview. She believes that Sasha Banks may have manipulated Naomi into leaving Raw.

Quotes via SportsKeeda.com

Tay Conti On Paige VanZant: “She’s Never Here, I’m Doing My Job”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Tay Conti believes that “OnlyFans Chick” Paige VanZant isn’t cut out for the wrestling business.

Of course, Tay and PVZ have been involved in a feud recently. With that said, VanZant hasn’t been on AEW TV in several weeks. This is likely due to her preparing for a BKFC fight on July 9.

Tay and Sammy Guevara continue to feud with PVZ’s faction, however. Sammy has been at odds with Dan Lambert, Ethan Page, and current TNT Champion Scorpio Sky.

Tay Conti On PVZ’s Wrestling Future

Speaking to Brandon Walker of Barstool Rasslin’, Tay Conti explained why she hasn’t been able to continue her feud with PVZ (h/t Wrestling Inc).

“What’s her name again, the chick from the OnlyFans? Paige VanZant, waiting on her. She signed, never here, waiting on her. I do both, I am here, I’m on Instagram, she can’t handle it, that’s not on me. So, you guys need to complain with her. You guys need to hate her, not me, because I am here doing my job.”

When PVZ does eventually return, she’ll likely be taking aim at Tay for her trash talk. Ever since VanZant went to prepare for her next fight, Tay has been playing more of a heel role with Sammy Guevara despite AEW’s confusing direction with the two.

With VanZant, there is the question of how much she is invested in the wrestling industry. WWE Attitude Era star Gangrel, who trains VanZant, recently admitted that the former UFC star hasn’t been as passionate about the business and someone else he’s high on in the gym.

Still, Gangrel sees “tremendous” potential in Paige VanZant.

MJF “Hardly the Only Talent” Not Happy in AEW

Thomas Lowson
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MJF is not the only wrestler reportedly unhappy in AEW, according to Voices Of Wrestling.

Friedmann has reportedly been at odds with AEW President Tony Khan for some time and has teased leaving for WWE in 2024.

According to a source within AEW, much of the roster is frustrated with the company for a variety of reasons.

“A source from the AEW locker room tells us that MJF is hardly the only talent feeling some level of discontent, describing the backstage atmosphere as ‘chaotic’ with a lack of structure, with common complaints ranging from not knowing angles or finishes until close to showtime, and things like redundant finishes and angles to set up matches being very frustrating.

“Every single one of us is pulling out hair out, according to one source. While not on the same level of WWE issues like Monday Night RAW often being rewritten the day of or even on the fly as the show is airing, we are told that AEW is not all sunshine and rainbows.”

MJF’s contract with AEW will expire in January 2024 and WWE, in addition to their network partners has shown interest in him.

Will MJF jump?

10 Times WWE REJECTED Million Dollar Ideas – Page 10
After trying out for WWE Tough Enough in 2015, could MJF be finally joining the promotion in 2024?

With his incredibly rude heel persona and colorful language, it’s hard to see MJF making a splash in the PG waters of WWE.

Despite this, MJF has insisted he will go to whoever makes the best deal, which could easily be Vince McMahon.

McMahon has already shown he’s willing to pay a lot for AEW talent, as seen with Cody Rhodes’ WrestleMania 38 return.

Thanks to NoDQ.com for the transcription.

Original Plan for this week’s Steel Cage Match Between Bobby Lashley and Omos

Thomas Lowson
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WWE was going to collapse the ring as part of their original plans for this week’s Steel Cage match between Bobby Lashley and Omos.

On Raw, the two competed in a match Lashley won, after being thrown into the wall of the cage which collapsed under his weight.

According to WrestleVotes on Twitter, the match was supposed to feature a spot where the ring collapsed but this was nixed.

Will Lashley-Omos III be Inside Hell in a Cell?

While Lashley got the win this week, his victory was far from clean, and he and Omos are still tied at Premium Live Events.

Lashley got the win at WrestleMania 38 while Omos defeated “The All Mighty” at WrestleMania Backlash in Lashley’s first televised pinfall loss in seven months.

While a rubber match seems likely to take place at Hell in a Cell, the question is whether the match will take place inside the Cell itself.

WWE currently has just one Cell match confirmed for the June 5, Premium Live Event: Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins.

This week’s Steel Cage match was Omos’ first time inside a structure and may have been a test to see how he’d fair inside Hell in a Cell.

‘Road Dogg’ Jesse James Calls Sasha Banks-Naomi Walk Out a “Publicity Stunt”

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Hall of Famer ‘Road Dogg’ Jesse James has said that Sasha Banks and Naomi walking out of this week’s Raw may have been the plan all along.

The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions left this week’s Raw due to creative differences and after “The Boss” had a meeting with Vince McMahon.

Appearing on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio to give his thoughts on the situation, James explained why this may be all for show.

“When I see them publically put it all out there like that, it just makes me feel like it’s a work, you know what I mean? It just makes me feel like, if that really happened, in my mind, they would just change the main event, and probably not even say anything.

“I think it is a publicity stunt to try and add some heat to the tag titles. But again, that’s just me, and I’m a cynical worker who’s been around the business my whole life, so I think everything’s a work.”

“I think it is a publicity stunt to try and add some heat to the tag titles.”

‘Road Dogg’ Jesse James

Road Dogg was with WWE until January 2022 when he was released from his role at the Performance Center.

James was released alongside his brother Scott Armstrong, William Regal, and others.

Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Details On Events Leading To Sasha Banks And Naomi Walking Out Of Raw

Anutosh Bajpai
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Many people questioned the reports suggesting that Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of Raw because the latter was supposed to win the six-pack challenge main event at the show. PWinsider has provided some more updates and shed some light on how things unfolded on Monday before the Raw episode.

Per the site, the original plans were for Naomi to beat Sasha Banks to win the main event. This confrontation would have been built with multiple segments throughout the show. The Raw episode then would have gone off air with the duo celebrating Naomi becoming the #1 contender for the Raw women’s championship.

There are some who believe that Banks was also going to get a shot at the SmackDown women’s title. A segment on Friday’s SmackDown would have set a match between her and Ronda Rousey, presumably for Hell In A Cell. Though both the tag team partners were expected to lose their respective title matches. This would effectively mean that the women’s tag team champions would have been used to put over the champions of Raw and SmackDown.

An alternative idea for a women’s championship feud was pitched after some concerns were raised over the original plans. The idea was for the tag team champions to have a short match and then get attacked to set up a championship feud with Doudrop and Nikki A.S.H. However, Sasha Banks and Naomi were informed by WWE producer Molly Holly not long before the show went on air that the officials had decided to go in the direction of the six-pack challenge instead.

When Mr McMahon Found Out About Sasha Banks and Naomi

Shortly after learning about this change, Banks and Naomi walked into the office of John Laurinaitis. They informed him of their decision to leave and left the championship belts behind. Vince McMahon was informed of the events right after Raw went on air.

The Becky Lynch – Adam Pearce segment that took place during the show was then pitched on the spot. One source has credited Lynch for the idea. Mr McMahon ordered for the segment to be shot and placed on the show to explain the change in the main event which had already been announced by that point.

The belief among some is that the creative issues weren’t about the finish of the show but how the duo would have been portrayed over the coming weeks, leading to the upcoming PPV. Nobody knew what would happen to their team after the show. This was especially problematic because Mr McMahon himself had ordered Banks and Naomi to team up for WrestleMania 38 and they worked hard to build their team.

Sasha Banks has since unfollowed Vince McMahon and other WWE accounts on Twitter. Meanwhile, report suggest that the locker room is not sympathetic towards the boss for her actions on Monday. How this story will evolve is anyone’s guess. We will keep you updated on any further development.

Shad Gaspard Foundation Nears Petition Goal For Safer Beaches

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

The Shad Gaspard foundation has started a campaign to ensure better security arrangements at the beaches of Los Angeles.

The foundation run by the widow of the late WWE star and other family members has initiated a petition to put proper warning flags over the beaches of the city.

The petition mentions how 456 rescues had already been made over the weekend at the Venice beach where Gaspard later drowned after getting caught in a current.

The Shad Gaspard Foundation is demanding to get warning flags placed on Venice beach, Dockweiler State beach, Sunset beach, Marina beach, Mother’s beach, Play Del Rey beach, Pacific Ocean beach, Will Rogers State beach, and Santa Monica beach:

The Tragic Death Of Shad Gaspard

Shad had multiple runs with WWE between 2002 and 2010. He is probably best known for his work as part of the Cryme Tyme tag team on the main roster.

The late wrestling star passed away in a tragic manner back on May 17, 2020. He was visiting the Venice beach with his family when Shad and his son got caught in a strong rip current.

When lifeguards approached, Gaspard requested them to save his son first. Unfortunately, the late star had disappeared when guards returned. His body was found 2 days later.

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