Rey Fenix will make his in-ring return to challenge Dante Martin for the first time ever on May. 5.
Since the Mar. 30 episode of AEW Dynamite, All Elite Wrestling has featured matches for men and women to qualify for The Owen Hart Foundation Cup Tournament. The inaugural tournament will begin its first round on May. 11.
AEW already shared last week that Jeff Hardy would compete against Bobby Fish in a Men’s qualifier match. Now AEW President Tony Khan has announced that Rey Fenix will take on Dante Martin in another The Owen Hart Foundation Cup Qualifier match.
Tomorrow night on @TBSNetwork, we have a dream match with a spot in the Owen Hart Foundation Men’s Cup Tournament on the line as @lucha_angel1 will battle @ReyFenixMx!
Fenix will have his first match in AEW since he suffered an arm injury in the Jan. 5 episode of AEW Dynamite episode. His gruesome-looking injury occurred when he took a chokeslam from Luchasaurus through a table. Although it looked brutal on TV, Fenix wasn’t expected to be sidelined for too long. He returned on the Apr. 27 episode of AEW Dynamite to help Penta El Zero Miedo and PAC attack the House of Black. A win for Fenix gets him back in the win column and reminds fans just how good he can be healthy.
Martin will try to get his first win on AEW Dynamite since Jan. 12. His last win on the show happened against Powerhouse Hobbs, but since he has only won matches on AEW Dark. He also began teaming with his brother Darius Martin, which halted his singles run. However, Martin has an opportunity to defeat Fenix in their first-ever match and get a win on AEW’s premier weekly TV show.
Full Card for the 5/4 Episode of AEW Dynamite
The May. 4 episode of AEW Dynamite takes place at the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. The card is expected to have six matches.
Rey Fenix vs. Dante Martin
Jeff Hardy vs. Bobby Fish
Wardlow vs. MJF’s Mystery Opponent
Chris Jericho vs. Santana in a Grudge Match
The Butcher, Blade and Angelico vs. Blackpool Combat Club
(C) Deonna Purrazzo vs. (IC)Mercedes Martinez for the Undisputed Ring of Honor Women’s Championship
Joey G: Corbin and Moss have been one of the steadier heel acts on the WWE main roster for the last few months so I personally don’t see the benefit of them fighting with each other. However, since the match is happening the person who can benefit the most from a win is Moss as Corbin can always blame some outside force for his failures. The lingering question I have is what’s next for Moss when he does win? (Pick: Madcap Moss)
Andrew Ravens: A feud that no one cares about and a match that doesn’t mean much. I guess you could make the case that a win over Corbin means something for Moss, who is still trying to find his footing here. It makes sense for him to win so I’ll side with the babyface. (Pick: Madcap Moss)
Michael Reichlin: Baron Corbin is a reliable utility player for WWE, but Madcap Moss clearly has more upside. Madcap finds himself flying solo after after Corbin recently turned on him. A loss would set him back considerably. Moss avenges the betrayal and moves on to the next chapter of his career. (Pick: Madcap Moss)
Winner Prediction: Madcap Moss
Bobby Lashley vs. Omos
Michael Reichlin: Lashley got the clean win at WrestleMania 38. Since then, MVP turned on his former client and sided with the giant. Much like the opening match, I think this is a case of the veteran putting over the rising star. Lashley is still going strong at 45, but the 27-year old 7-footer has the brighter future. (Pick: Omos)
Andrew Ravens: I was surprised when Lashley beat Omos at WrestleMania 38 so it only makes sense for Omos to win here and likely thanks to outside interference by MVP to make Lashley stay strong as that is what WWE is attempting to do in this feud, which doing so for both guys at the same time isn’t the easiest thing to do. (Pick: Omos)
Joey G: Like the Edge and Styles matchup there seems to be more to this story than just this bout. Omos will get a big win over a former WWE champion, and MVP, who will most definitely get involved, can claim that he chose the right horse. If it were me I would be grooming Omos for an I.C. title or U.S. title run, but a rubber match with Lashley seems more likely. (Pick: Omos)
Consensus: Omos
AJ Styles vs. Edge
Andrew Ravens: I can see this going either way as Edge already has a win over AJ and it seems we’re going for a trilogy. AJ as the babyface should’ve won their first encounter and really needs to do so here if they want to keep the feud going so Styles wins, but perhaps it’s by DQ thanks to outside interference by Damian Priest. (Pick: AJ Styles)
Michael Reichlin: I keep going back and forth on this one. Both men have interesting programs going on, with Edge being paired with Damian Priest and AJStyles aligning with Bullet Club alum Finn Balor. I say Edge gets the win with help from Priest, to solidify the threat of Edge having backup. (Pick: Edge)
Joey G: Traditional WWE booking tells me that Styles wins this round so they can go for a third time on a bigger show somewhere down the line. My guess would also be that Styles recent alliance with fellow Bullet Club alumni Finn Balor means that a tag team match against Edge and Priest is on the table as well. Regardless of who wins, this won’t be the final chapter. (Pick: AJ Styles)
Consensus: AJ Styles
Drew McIntyre and RK-Bro vs. The Bloodline
Andrew Ravens: A lot of things have changed with everyone involved here from what was originally planned. I don’t see this being the main event so the babyfaces don’t necessarily have to go over if that’s what Vince McMahon doesn’t want. Have McIntyre pin one of The Usos to keep his feud going with Reigns and who knows what WWE does with RK-Bro going forward if they’re not unifying the tag team titles with SmackDown. (Pick: McIntyre and RK-Bro)
Joey G: Really sad we didn’t get a Nakamura and Reigns solo matchup on this card as it seemed to be set up a few weeks ago, and would pay off Nakamura earning that title shot last year. With that said…this six-man tag will be the show-stealer, and will certainly plant the seed for the eventual McIntyre and Reigns ultimate showdown. Considering how dominant the Tribal Chief and the Usos have been, I think the Bloodline go down in this one. (Pick: RK-Bro and Drew McIntyre)
Michael Reichlin: Originally, when this was going to be a tag team title unification match, I had The Usos getting the win. Now that Reigns and McIntyre have joined the fray, I think the babyfaces take this one. Most people are probably looking at Rollins vs. Cody as having the most Match of the Night potential, but dont’ sleep on the 6-man tag. (Pick: Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro)
Consensus: Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro
SmackDown Women’s Championship: Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Ronda Rousey – I Quit Match
Andrew Ravens: Rousey will get the title here. WWE surprised everyone by not having the title change happen at WrestleMania and adding in this stipulation, it’s nearly a lock that Rousey walks out with the title. What’s next is the interesting part as WWE could run back a third match or have them go in their separate ways. Rousey should be the champion and will be and WWE can revisit this match later this year for one of their stadium shows. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)
Michael Reichlin: Quite simply, Rousey is not losing an I Quit match. She’s just not saying those words. I was surprised that she came up short at WrestleMania, but now is the time for her to reach the top of the mountain once again. I think Charlotte Flair will bring her A-game, to soften the impact of her submitting to Rousey, but this one was “new champion” written all over it. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)
Joey G: One of the biggest surprises at WrestleMania 38 was Charlotte squeaking out a win over Rousey, as Rousey’s Royal Rumble triumph seemed to indicate that she was getting the title at the Show of Shows. While Rousey’s fan support has certainly lessened, I think she gets that big moment here, and begins a dominant reign on SmackDown. I don’t think a third match between these two is necessary, but don’t be surprised if one happens. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)
Consensus: Ronda Rousey
Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins
Michael Reichlin: This one already has the big fight feel. Rollins has been fantastic as of late. Cody is still riding high since arriving at WrestleMania. I hope this match is the main event of WrestleMania Backlash. I expect a dramatic match, with the American Nightmare coming out on top. Cody’s got a date with destiny (Roman Reigns) and they’re not going to saddle him with a loss and 50/50 booking this early into his run. The storyline winning the title Dusty never did is too good to pass up. They’re keeping him strong for the foreseeable future. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)
Joey G: If there is one guy other than Roman Reigns who should not be losing right now it’s the American Nightmare. Rhodes is more organically over with the WWE Universe than any other star on the roster, and the long-term story of him becoming a world champion is easily laid out in front of them. Rollins has been great, but he can afford to lose again before moving on to something else. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)
Andrew Ravens: Rhodes should go over here as a loss doesn’t hurt Rollins and he can talk his way out of it. Rhodes is clearly the top babyface on the Raw roster and it’s just a matter of time before he’s in the title hunt. Keep Cody strong as he is super over with the fans right now. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)
Consensus: Cody Rhodes
There you have it. Hit up the comments section and let us know what you think about our picks for WrestleMania Backlash.
It appears WWE will be heading back to a familiar venue for the 2023 Royal Rumble event. Fightful Select reports the January event currently has the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas as the front runner.
WWE previously held this same event at the venue in 2017 and was also the site for the 1997 edition. Until WWE announces it, nothing is set in stone. Both Seattle and New Orleans had expressed interest in hosting the event.
Last year’s Summerslam location was being discussed until fairly close to the actual announcement date so it may be months until WWE announces the Royal Rumble announcement.
WWE has held Royal Rumble events from stadiums or domes since 2019 except for 2021. Andrew Zarian of Mat Men Radio recently reported that WWE is planning on running more dome shows per year than ever before starting next year as that is WWE President Nick Khan’s vision.
The remaining WWE stadium shows this year include Money In The Bank from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on July 2, SummerSlam at Nissan Stadium in Nashville on July 30, WWE Clash at the Castle in Cardiff, Wales on September 3, and an event in Saudi Arabia in October.
Last week WWE was overseas for their annual European tour, with events being held in England, France, and Germany.
Former WWE champion Sheamus had been active during the tour, but was noticeably absent from the company’s Saturday show in Paris, as well as their Sunday event from Ludwig. This led to some online speculation that the Celtic Warrior had been injured, but a new report reveals why he was off the card.
According to PW Insider, Sheamus is doing just fine, and was not used over the weekend so that his new stable-mate, Butch, could get more ring-time. The Bruiserweight worked multiple matches with current Intercontinental champion Ricochet on the tour, with former I.C. champion Sami Zayn later being added for some triple-threat action.
It is not know whether Sheamus, Butch, or their third partner, Ridge Holland, will be added to WWE’s upcoming WrestleMania Backlash premium live event. The trio have been making waves on the blue-brand since forming an alliance earlier this year. Sheamus hasn’t wrestled on TV since his victory over Kofi Kingston on the April 22nd taping SmackDown. Meanwhile Butch’s last TV match was a loss to the New Day’s Xavier Woods. Stay tuned.
All Elite Wrestling talent Nyla Rose hopes to see wrestlers from Stardom walk through the “Forbidden Door.”
Since introducing the “Forbidden Door,” AEW has worked with other wrestling organizations like Impact Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling. However, most of the cross-over interactions have been with men, leaving the AEW women’s division out of the picture.
On the Apr. 20 episode of AEW Dynamite, AEW and NJPW announced they would partner for a Pay-Per-View event called Forbidden Door on Jun. 26. As of now, NJPW’s affiliate, the all-women wrestling promotion Stardom, isn’t involved. Solitaire Rose Radio’s Cory interviewed Rose and asked who she’d like to face from NJPW. Rose responded that NJPW doesn’t have a women’s division but shared that she hopes to wrestle someone from Stardom and see them walk through the “Forbidden Door.”
“…Unfortunately, New Japan themselves do not have a women’s division. However, they do work very closely with Stardom, said Rose. She continued, “…I have not really had the experience, the pleasure to work with anyone in Stardom. So for me, that Forbidden Door is wide open. I would call it a Forbidden Archway. I would welcome anyone to walk through that, just to say that I’ve done that. Check that box off.”
Will The AEW Women’s Division be Involved at Forbidden Door
While wrestling fans are excited about the announcement, the news may exclude talent from the AEW Women’s division from taking part. The Forbidden Door event may have talent from AEW and NJPW compete against each other. Although it’s unclear what the format of the show will be yet. Stardom also has an event planned for Jun. 26, which puts any involvement in doubt.
AEW may somehow feature the women’s division in the show, but not against wrestlers from a different promotion. While it may be disappointing to fans, Wrestling Observers Dave Meltzer shared on Saturday Night Main Event Podcast that Stardom is interested in working with AEW. It may not happen at Forbidden Door, but Rose may get the opportunity to challenge a Stardom opponent in the future.
Liv Morgan promises to help a wrestling fan after WWE confiscated his sign.
The incident took place on the May. 2 episode of Monday Night Raw, which took place in Greensboro, North Carolina. Morgan had a tag team match with Asuka and Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair against Sonya Deville, Becky Lynch, and Rhea Ripley. Positively Wrestling Co-Host Stephen Davidson posted on Twitter that he spent $600 for front-row seats to show his support to Morgan. However, WWE took his sign that said “Liv $old This Seat.”
Davidson shared that the company didn’t say why they had confiscated it. He also added he’ll talk about the incident in detail on May. 6 for the next podcast episode.
Morgan noticed the Davidson tweet and thanked him for the support. She added that she would buy him tickets to the event the next time they were back in his town.
Thank you so much ! I love u and appreciate it. Reach out to me next time we’re in town.. tickets on me ?? https://t.co/Gols2BXhii
Morgan is currently in a feud with her former tag team partner Ripley. After several unsuccessful attempts at winning the Women’s Tag Team Championship, Ripley turned on Morgan on the Apr. 18 episode of Monday Night Raw.
In a backstage promo on the Apr. 25 episode of Monday Night Raw, Ripley said, “…When I first came here, I became the Raw Women’s Champion all on my own. Since then, I’ve been tossed into the tag division surrounded by tag partners that do nothing but bring me down to their level and make me weak.” Shortly after, Morgan attacked Ripley to further the feud.
It’s unclear if Morgan will challenge Ripley at Wrestlemania Backlash on May. 8. They are not on the card, but WWE could always add them to the event.
“The Viper” was recently interviewed by GiveMeSport, and asked about potentially joining the WWE Performance Center as a coach down the road in his career. However, the 14-time WWE World Champion doesn’t think he’d make a very good coach.
He does think, however, that he has a lot to offer in terms of analyzing match tape and breaking things down.
“I don’t really think I’d be a good coach because I would start to just ramble… It’s almost like I don’t know how to articulate myself to a group of green guys that are coming into the business that need to learn the basics.
“If there was three, four or five guys, a small group, and if we could go and talk and sit in the ring. If it could be like close quarters, just a small group of people where we’re not doing drills and stuff, but just talking and maybe watching tape, I think I’d be good in that aspect.”
Orton would certainly have a plethora of knowledge to pass along after over 20 years in the business. The son of WWE Hall Of Famer “Cowboy” Bob Orton, Randy Orton has carried on his family name in the business with tremendous prestige.
After 14 World Title reigns, Orton has established himself as one of the biggest WWE stars of all time. Currently, Orton sits atop the Tag Team division of WWE, reigning as the RAW Tag Team Champions alongside Matt Riddle.
Currently, Orton and Riddle are embroiled in a feud with The Bloodline (SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos and WWE World Champion Roman Reigns) that will culminate at WrestleMania Backlash. Despite working in a tag team at the moment rather than singles action, Orton has said he’s enjoying wrestling now more than ever.
It will be interesting to see how long WWE decides to keep Orton and Riddle paired together before the duo resume singles careers again.
Pro-wrestling star Sabatino Piscitelli, who fans will remember as Tino Sabbatelli in WWE, was the latest guest on Insight With Chris Van Vilet to discuss his temporary run in AEW back in 2020, which came at the heels of his first release from WWE’s NXT brand.
Sabbatelli began the interview by revealing that he unknowingly burned his bridge with AEW President Tony Khan, stating that he thinks it’s because he decided to return to WWE after his debut match on Dark.
“So here’s the thing. I don’t know what happened or where it went wrong, this is the truth, that bridge was burned, and I don’t know how. Tony Khan knows me from football, and when WWE offered me that contract, I actually texted Billy Gunn about it. They [AEW] hadn’t offered me anything, Triple H was the one who offered me something. I sent a nice text to Billy Gunn to thank me for the opportunity and I thought it was all good. But when I got released again, someone reached out to AEW and said to Tony Khan ‘Tino is a free agent and he’s going to be a star.”
He adds that Andrade El Idolo at one pointed wanted him in a group but Khan said no.
3 months ago, Andrade approaches me and said that he wanted me to be in a group with him. Me and Andrade have always had a good relationship. But he texted me personally and we shot a vignette together. He wanted to bring a group like Evolution to AEW. We shot the video and spent the whole day in Miami. He texted me back and said ‘Tony Khan likes the idea but no Tino.’ I’m like what do you mean? I would love to sit and talk to Tony.”
Shortly after Sabbatelli’s AEW run a rumor had circulated that he was the cause of several AEW spoilers being released to the public, an accusation that the former NFL star now laughs off as he admits that he is an internet dummy and doesn’t even use social media.
“Oh man I had to laugh. If anybody knows me, I don’t know where to begin with this. I am an internet dummy, I don’t know what a dirt sheet is, I am not on Twitter and I don’t use Instagram. So when someone tagged me and said ‘You hear what Chris Jericho said about you.’ What was it, NXT reject? At first I ignored it but people started to bring it up more and more, so I started to look into it. I’m like what is this dude talking about? For me to go on the internet and speak on something that I know nothing about? No disrespect, I don’t care about that much.”
Sabbatelli credits WWE Hall of Famer Billy Gunn for getting him through the AEW door, but it appears his one match on Dark caught the attention of Triple H, who reached out to him after the bout had aired.
“So then AEW comes into play, AEW calls me. Billy Gunn calls me and says ‘Sabby, show up to Jacksonville.’ They don’t tell me anything, I show up and I see my name on the board. I’m like wow, I have a match? I mean OK I will do it. So I had this match on AEW Dark, it was a tag team match, but they didn’t tell me anything. They didn’t offer me anything, it was a vague trip. But that same week coach Bloom texted me and said congratulations. I shot him a text back saying ‘Thank you but I didn’t sign anything.’ The next day Triple H reaches out to me.
Later in the interview Sabbatelli reflects on his time in WWE, and whether he thinks he would ever return if called upon.
Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) has an all-time dream opponent, and it just so happens to be a WWE Hall Of Famer.
Recently, MJF took part in a Q&A during the For The Love Of Wrestling convention in Liverpool, England. During the Q&A, MJF was asked about his all-time dream opponent. The All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star answered with WWE Hall Of Famer Rowdy Roddy Piper.
“Roddy Piper,” MJF said. “I feel the only person that in the modern who can hold a candle to me on the stick, whether I want to admit it or not, is CM Punk. Even though I beat him in his hometown of Chicago, verbally. Absolutely bent him over with my mic skills.
“Do I think Roddy Piper is the only person that could go toe-to-toe with me on the stick in the history of professional wrestling? The answer’s yes. Was the man absolutely insane, and do I think we would have a barbaric match as well that would stand the test of time? Yes.
“I got a lot of people tell me that I remind of the Rowdy one, and I think that would be one hell of a match. So, that is my answer.”
Sadly, Piper passed away in 2015. However, MJF could find his way to WWE in the near future. In January of 2024, MJF’s contract with AEW is set to expire, and he has been very open about possibly journeying over to WWE.
The 26-year-old has stated that, if Vince McMahon is willing to shell out the cash, he’ll happily jump ship. This would be a pretty big move, as only one notable star has left AEW for WWE. That being Cody Rhodes, who left AEW earlier this year and re-debuted in WWE at WrestleMania 38 against Seth Rollins.
It will be interesting to see if MJF ultimately decides to depart to WWE in 2024, or if he’ll stick around with AEW for the foreseeable future.
AEW may be on the verge of signing Willow Nightingale if they haven’t already.
Nightingale has made several appearances for AEW. For the most part, she has been eating pinfalls to more established stars but she hasn’t exactly been presented as an enhancement talent.
Nightingale is quite active in her matches and even picked up a win on AEW Dark this week. Following the victory, AEW seemingly dropped a big hint regarding the future of Willow Nightingale.
Willow Nightingale Off The Market?
After Nightingale picked up her first AEW win, the camera zoomed in on a fan sign calling for her to be signed.
So Willow Nightingale wins her first AEW match on Dark this week, and then the AEW production team zooms in on a particular sign in the crowd.
Back in April, Nightingale was asked about potentially signing with AEW or even ROH. She shared her positive outlook (h/t Fightful).
“It’s looking positive. I don’t have anything solid that I can tell anyone, but things are looking good. I’ve wrestled there and had nine matches and there were definitely moments on that journey where I was like, ‘what is going on?’ Moments of frustration, but especially the last couple of weeks, I’ve been re-affirmed, ‘trust the process, keep going.’ Stay on this journey folks.”
Many feel it’s only a matter of time before Nightingale puts pen to paper but we’ll keep you posted once something concrete surfaces.
Deonna Purrazzo prided herself on being a double champion. She held the ROH and AAA Women’s titles simultaneously and would issue the “Champ Champ Challenge” where she put either her Reina de Reinas title or ROH’s signature gold on the line.
She lost her AAA Reina de Reinas title at Rebellion on April 23 to Taya Valkyrie, which ended her reign at 252 days.
When SESoops’ Ella Jay caught up with “The Virtuosa” at WrestleCon, they discussed this and more.
You can watch our exclusive interview with Deonna Purrazzo below:
Below are some highlights of the interview:
On Chelsea Green
Deonna Purrazzo was asked who she thinks is the biggest surprise to step up to the plate recently. She named Chelsea Green.
“You know, what, I’m gonna have to say Chelsea [Green] was the biggest surprise. When I talked about this, we know her arm wasn’t really broken, whether she and I are in cahoots or not. No one will ever know. But, yeah, it was a surprise to see your best friend come out there. Always. And then, the three-way I think, you know, I put myself in a predicament where I could have lost, but I am The Virtuosa, and I said it on Impact when you mess with the bull you get the goddamn horns!”
Purrazzo also said that she would pick Chelsea Green as her tag team partner if she were to go after the Impact Knockouts World Tag Team Championships.
Purrazzo was also asked about her thoughts on the turn of events with Mickie and Chelsea:
“You know what? I know Mickie’s your number one, but I will say that I obviously saw this coming. Mickie is selfish, Mickie wants what Mickie wants and doesn’t want to give to anyone else and that’s just who she is. And you know, what, if she wants to live her life like that. That’s fine. But when people are giving the way Chelsea and I are giving you get fed up really quick. And that’s what happens.”
On Being A Champ Champ Champ
The Champ Champ.
Purrazzo held two championships at the same time – Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide’s Reina de Reinas Championship, and Ring of Honor’s Women’s World Championship. She lost the former to Taya Valkyrie on April 23 at Rebellion. But when she held the two titles, she called herself “The Champ Champ”. Purrazzo is also a two-time Knockouts Champion. She was asked if we will ever see “The Champ Champ Champ” era.
“I’d be the Champ Champ Champ. Yeah. Absolutely. I think there’s just this like an innate thing in all of us Knockouts that you want to be The Knockouts Champion. If you don’t want to be a champion in wrestling, you should not be in wrestling. So, of course, I have my eye on Miss Tasha Steelz. Tasha and I have a long history together. I don’t want to say it’s trainer-trainee, but it’s kind of like that, that dynamic is a little bit like that. So, you know, I was so proud that she won, but at the same time, I want to kick her ass and break her arm and get my Championship back.”
Losing To Mickie James
Mickie James and Deonna Purrazzo at Hard To Kill.
At Hard To Kill, Mickie James defeated Deonna Purrazzo in a Texas Deathmatch to retain the Impact Knockouts Championship. Purrazzo was asked what is her response to James sitting on the chair looking at her, and where she wants to go after this chapter is closed.
“You go on and you win more championships like I did. No, on a serious note, this underlying story that we didn’t really talk too much about of me being The Virtuosa, this evil queen that has the hold on The Knockouts championship for so long. And it was like, who’s finally gonna dethrone her? And I think the symbolism in the table being on me. There are chairs and Mickie sitting on top of me was really the perfect ending to my chapter in that time of my life.”
Thoughts On Texas
WrestleCon took place at the Fairmont Hotel in Dallas, Texas. Purrazzo was asked what she liked about the state, and she quickly responded she loved the Texan accent. She also added that she’s had some of the best Mexican food there.
“Ooh, I say y’all all the time. So I love that everyone here and just it feels natural to be it down in Dallas and just be like, ‘sup y’all?’ like everyone is like you lost the Jersey in you, you say y’all? But I said y’all, when I lived in Jersey and where I’m from in Jersey is not the city Jersey. So I love that everyone has an accent and I’ve had the best Mexican food possible for lunch and dinner last night. So, the food is good.”
Purrazzo announced that she is engaged to fellow New Jersey native Steve Maclin in February 2022. She recalled how when wrestling at JCW a few weeks ago, the crowd chanted “Mr. Purrazo” at him.
The wrestling world certainly isn’t immune from tribalism. Ever since AEW was formed back in 2019, there have been some mind-numbing fanboy wars on social media. Even though Matt currently represents AEW, he sees conversations going south on both sides.
Matt Hardy Sends Message To Keyboard Warriors
During an edition of The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy, Matt said there’s nothing wrong with supporting the company you prefer. With that said, he doesn’t understand why fans work themselves up over brand loyalty (via Wrestling Inc).
“One thing I would like to say is the tribalism between WWE and AEW fans, like, you don’t have to do this. I don’t know if you enjoy it, the people that do it online on social media, it just creates such a toxic environment in the big scheme of things.
“You love WWE, go hard for WWE, and support WWE. I love WWE and you know I’ve said that since day one, and I’ll never say anything differently. Obviously, when I work somewhere else, I’m going to go hard for AEW because they’re the people paying my bills at the end of the day, but just like a pro wrestling match, you take shots at your opponent, and you talk sh** about them.
“That’s what AEW is going to do to WWE, that’s what WWE, in theory, is going to do to AEW although they don’t mention AEW in the big scheme of things, they may take shots in other ways behind the scenes. That’s part of the game, part of the business, and don’t take that too seriously.
“If you have a guy in WWE taking shots at an AEW guy, don’t sweat it. If you have an AEW guy taking shots at a WWE guy, don’t sweat it, it’s all part of the game, baby. It’s all a part of the game and the whole promotion, and the whole fun of pro wrestling. As a fan, don’t work yourself into a shoot, especially with other fans online. Enjoy whatever you enjoy and be proud of it, and don’t let anybody take it differently.”
AEW star Bryan Danielson also spoke about tribalism in wrestling during an interview with Sports Illustrated back in Sept. 2021. He doesn’t believe the issue solely rests within the industry.
Former WWE Vice President of Global Television Production Michael Mansury has reflected on the time WWE first got trigger happy with its camera cuts.
One big criticism of WWE TV is that there are too many camera cuts. It’s a style that WWE has implemented for years and it was in full effect during the opening segment of the May 2 episode of Raw. In that opener, The Bloodline brawled with Drew McIntyre and RK-Bro.
Mansury recently had a chat with Conrad Thompson on The Insiders and he revealed when WWE first started getting gung-ho over having multiple camera cuts at a time.
“I will say that the rapid camera cutting, to my recollection, that came into play when The Shield debuted. The whole purpose behind it — because there’s the movement in the camera, ‘Ready 3, ready 4,’ going back and forth between all the angles.
“The initial design behind that style of shooting was to make what you were seeing on screen for the three characters of The Shield, and just the push that they were getting at the time, was just to make it seem all that more chaotic. At the time it worked.
“I can see now how after so many years of doing it, a lot of viewers feel like they’re on a pretty queasy-inducing thrill ride but that was the intent behind it initially.”
Mansury said initially, the cuts were reserved for only The Shield before that style was implemented throughout all the shows.
“That rapid camera cut situation, it was born out of just creating an exciting and chaotic feel for when The Shield were doing those 3 on 1, 3 on 2 beatdowns very early in their run.”
A certain trio was behind those rapid #WWE camera cuts.
All Elite Wrestling is bringing additional AEW programming to TBS.
On Tuesday, select AEW fans received a survey announcing details of the show.
The reality series will follow AEW talent and document their lives on the road. The official synopsis reads:
“AEW’s top performers are ushering in a new behind-the-scenes wrestling series like no other… Every episode will track our core cast on the road at AEW events as they try to hold onto the titles they have or win back the ones they’ve lost, with everything culminating at the biggest Pay-Per-View event of the year.
They all hope to walk away champions, but there aren’t enough belts for everybody. Heroes will rise, villains will fall, champions will be crowned… and with more access, more star talent, and more drama than ever before, we’ll see it all through the eyes of the biggest names in the company.”
AEW is asking for feedback on what the show should be title. Suggested names for the new AEW reality show on TBS include:
One WWE legend believes he knows the perfect AEW talent who could go blow for blow with The Rock on the mic.
It’s no secret that The Rock is Hollywood’s biggest star. He is highly sought after and WWE officials feel lucky anytime they get to bring him on TV.
On the mic, Rock has always been known for his scathing lines but one young AEW star has Bully Ray thinking he can take the heat and dish it out.
MJF Is Bully Ray’s Pick
MJF (Photo: AEW)
During an episode of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio show, Bully said that he could see MJF trading barbs with The Rock and holding his own (h/t Sportskeeda.com).
“I was going back and forth between two, Hook was one of them. I don’t know if you guys are really going to consider this a sleeper pick but I’m going with him. It’s MJF. Is MJF really considered a sleeper pick? I don’t know. But he’s a younger talent, when you say sleeper, I equate it to younger. So I was like Hook, Austin Theory, MJF. MJF is the guy for me. He’s a younger talent, who, we all know, the sky is the absolute limit. Who knows what MJF [is capable of]?
“If anybody could ever challenge what The Rock was able to accomplish on the microphone, I think it’s MJF. I think given time, seasoning, the right people to stand across from him, the right people to tighten his screws, MJF could become the next Rock on the microphone.”
MJF is only 26 but he’s quickly emerged as a top heel for AEW. He’s been known to push the boundaries with his promo work and is never afraid to roast someone. One would think Max and The Rock could hurl insults back and forth for hours and it would keep fans entertained throughout.
Max’s AEW contract is set to expire in 2024 and he isn’t shy in letting everyone know about it. He has made media rounds teasing a jump to WWE. MJF said it’ll come down to who is willing to pay him more.
Alberto Del Rio has announced the passing of the mother of his three children.
The former WWE and AAA star had been asking for help finding blood donors in an effort to save Ángela Velkei, his ex-wife. While it appears donors were found, things quickly went awry, and Velkei has died.
Del Rio took to his Twitter account to issue the following statement:
“It is with pain in my heart and with a torn soul that I officially confirm the unexpected and unfortunate death of Ángela Velkei, mother of my three children. Angela was an exceptional human being and an exemplary mother to my three children. I thank each and everyone who went to donate blood and platelets, to the media that spread the word so that more people could go to help us and the whole family that is present for my children in this very difficult moment in their short lives.
“Angela passed away this past Saturday 30 April 2022 and fought with all his might until his last second in this world. Today she rests with God and is watching over Sofia, Stephanie and Joseph from heaven. Angela, you were my wife for many years, the mother of my children, my best friend, advisor and you were there for me.
“In many moments where the world turned its back on me with words of encouragement and a sincere hug. Thank you so much Angela. We miss you like you have no idea. But I swear to you that our children will grow up to be good men and women like you always asked me to. Dad will be here for them. Rest in peace. In this world you were always my angel and so I always let you know. Now you truly become an angel watching over us from heaven. You will always be my angel. Our angel. We love you Angela. Thanks for being you.”
We at SEScoops wish the family of Ángela Velkei the very best during this difficult time.
Stu Grayson’s time with AEW might have come to an end.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter is reporting that Stu’s contract with AEW is up and the two sides haven’t struck a new deal at this time. There is no word on whether or not talks are completely done between the two sides.
Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful has also been trying to get the final word on Grayson’s status with AEW.
It’s interesting to note that more recently, we’ve seen the likes of Joey Janela, Marko Stunt, and Jack Evans not have their contracts renewed by AEW. They are free to sign elsewhere.
Grayson’s profile has been removed from the AEW roster page. It seems to be AEW’s policy to try to avoid releasing talent and instead just let those contracts expire.
SEScoops will keep you updated on the status of Stu Grayson as more details become available.
The Miz is one of the most successful pro wrestlers of the current era. Apart from a couple of world title reigns, he has won over a dozen other championships in WWE and has been a featured TV star for over a decade. Though even after all his success, he is not short on goals. The things he wants to do in the future range from being the best father he can be to playing Booster Gold in a DC movie.
The former world champion recently appeared on Out of Character. He discussed how he wants to continue pursuing his dreams so he can be a role model for his daughters. When asked what are the goals he wants to achieve, The Miz first mentioned that he wants to give more time to his family:
“Be the biggest superstar I [can] possibly be. Best dad you can possibly be. Best husband I could possibly be. You know, I’d love to give more time to my family. I have dedicated 20 years to WWE. This isn’t like a retirement speech.” said The Miz, “This isn’t me saying I wanna work less.
I just wanna be able to manage and balance my life a little better. To make sure that I focus on what’s truly, truly important. Those are those two little girls that I want to help mould and guide and learn and be there for. That’s one thing. Also, I would love to get into movies, voiceovers, TV.”
The Miz Wants To Play Johnny Cage And Boster Gold
The A-Lister mentioned that he has a production company with his wife Maryse. He revealed that after the success of Miz & Mrs, they are developing three more shows. He then noted how fans want him to play Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat. The Miz said that he is ready for it:
“Hell, I wanna play Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat baby. Are you kidding me? Like I have been working on my splits, I’ve been working on my kicks. As soon as I saw that Mortal Kombat was out, and there was no Johnny Cage yet. My name was literally trending worldwide, Number one as ‘we want The Miz as Johnny Cage.’
I was like, ‘If they want that to happen. I need to basically make sure that I am prepared and ready that if that opportunity presents itself. Then I will be ready and focused.’ So I called my trainer that helped me with Marine 6. Working on kicks and everything. I was like, ‘how do you do his intro kicks? I need to learn these and have them properly done.’ I need them left-handed and right-handed because Johnny can do both.
“Also Booster Gold. like I know there’s a Blue Beetle movie coming out. I don’t know if Booster Gold is even a part of it, but I would love to play that character in the DC realm.”
The Miz has been pretty open about getting a vasectomy. According to him, it was a way to make sure that he can continue pursuing his dreams and be a role model for his daughters to do the same.
The A-Lister recently talked about his decision on Out Of Character. He noted how he wanted to make sure that he can focus on being the best father. The former WWE champion also detailed the conversation he had with Maryse about it
“Going back to the vasectomy. I was like you know what, I want to make sure I can focus on my two loves, my daughters Monroe and Madison and be the best husband I can be. But I also want to pursue my dreams. A lot of times when you become a parent, you forget about the things that you want to do because everything is invested in them.” said The Miz, “Granted, everything IS invested in them. But I still want them to see me going after what I want. Because I want them to go after what they want. I want to be an example for them.
So My wife and I were like ‘Alright, we’re done’. I am like ‘Alright, so who’s doing it?’ It was a conversation like ‘Alright who is doing it?’ I was like, ‘you know what, I’ll bite the bullet. You shoved these suckers out of you twice so I think can do the deed.'”
Xavier Woods has pressed the restart button on UpUpDownDown.
The YouTube gaming channel of the WWE star had been barely active in the last few months. Though it appears that things are going to change soon.
The New Day star posted a video message on the channel on Monday afternoon. He welcomed the fans back with a majestic promo.
The video package saw Xavier Woods discussing the highs and lows of UpUpDownDown. It featured images of stars such as Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, Big E, and more.
Behind The Scene Issues At UpUpDownDown
The gaming channel became inactive in November last year, after the creators stopped working in a show of solidarity with Woods.
The people who worked on the channel believed that the New Day member was being taken advantage of. They wanted WWE to give him a better deal.
The channel had mostly been inactive since then. The only content posted on UpUpDownDown in recent months was related to WWE 2K22.
Back in April WWE officials held a meeting. They confirmed that talents will now be additionally compensated for all revenue they generate through third-party sites.
This latest video from Woods suggests that he may have gotten a new deal too, that will help him be paid more fairly for his work on the channel.
Booker T has been with WWE for a long time and the WWE Hall Of Famer has confirmed that he is not going away anytime soon.
The wrestling veteran recently had an interview with Culture Map in Houston. He talked about things such as talents from his wrestling school being picked up by major promotions and more.
Speaking of his relationship and future with WWE, T said that his relationship has ‘never been better.’ He claimed that his contract with them isn’t up for several years:
“My relationship with the company has never been better. My contract with them isn’t up for another several years. I’m still around doing the kickoff shows for all the premium events on Peacock.
I sometimes host RAW Talk and Talking Smack” mentioned Booker T, “And WWE has me involved with several other projects,”
At the age of 57, the former WCW champion is still active in wrestling. While he hasn’t wrestled for WWE since 2012, he regularly competes in his own Reality Of Wrestling promotion.
Talking about potential retirement, Booker T claimed that he will never be done wrestling. He said “I won’t be retired from the squared circle until I’m six feet under,”
WWE Hall Of Famer Jeff Jarrett alongside his wife Karen Jarrett apparently had to be escorted out of this past weekend’s AAA TripleMania event from Monterrey, Mexico.
The PPV event featured a segment where AAA owner Dorian Roldan came out to present a plaque to Monterrey native Latin Lover.
Lover was interrupted by Jarrett, his wife, and Rey Escorpion when he tried to cut a promo. Jeff teased the crowd and even got into the face of Marisela Peña who was seated at ringside.
— ProWrestlingIncapacitated (@PWIncapacitated) May 1, 2022
The WWE Hall Of Famer went on to insult the fans. When Latin Lover took off his jacket, the wrestling veteran called him a “dirty, filthy, grimy Mexican”
Escorpion then took down Lover before Vampiro made his return. Vampiro cleaned the house after a brawl and stood tall as the heels retreated.
The promo cut by Jeff Jarrett seems to have upset the fans. Lucha Libre Online is reporting that he had to be escorted out of the arena by eight security guards for his safety.
Officials from the promotion apparently confiscated tortillas Jarrett planned to throw in the crowd. He was then provided additional security at his hotel due to overzealous fans.
There is no word yet on if Jarrett will be back in AAA anytime soon. Though after his latest promo work it’s likely that they will keep him away from shows for at least a while.
Mark Briscoe has shared some positive news regarding his pregnant wife days after pulling out of his bookings with his brother Jay over the weekend.
Jay had revealed on Saturday that Mark’s pregnant wife was rushed to the hospital earlier in the day and doctors were trying to prevent a premature birth. At the time, he stated that both the wife and the unborn child are stable.
Mark updated fans by writing on Twitter: “Momma is home and baby is still in the oven!! Thank you all for your prayers and positivity.”
The Briscoes were pulled off Saturday’s GCW In Too Deep and Sunday’s PWG Delivering The Goods events due to the medical emergency.
At the GCW event, they were set to face GCW Tag Team Champions BUSSY (Allie Katch & Effy) and the Second Gear Crew (Mance Warner & Matthew Justice) in a three-way match. At PWG, they were slated to take on Aussie Open.
The Briscoes made their TV return to Impact Wrestling this past Thursday night where they beat Heath and Rhino to earn a shot at Tag Team Champions Violent by Design at Saturday’s Under Siege.
Becky Lynch has sent out a warning to fans regarding fake accounts asking people for money while pretending to be celebrities. Lynch wrote the following:
“It should go without saying, but I, or any other WWE superstar, Would not ever message any fan looking for money or gift cards.
Please, if anyone ever messages you, pretending to be me, asking for money, or anything else, immediately block and report. The amount of times I have heard of this happening is sickening.”
This is happening too often with some notable examples including a fan losing his home because he believed that WWE star Liv Morgan needed help. Another fan attacked Seth Rollins at a live event because he was duped by a fake account.
Lynch dropped the WWE Raw Women’s Title to Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 38 and took a few weeks off from appearing on television while continuing to work live events.
Lynch returned last week on Raw where she was interrupted by the returning Asuka. She doesn’t have a match lined up for WrestleMania Backlash just yet.
