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Pat McAfee Shares Behind-The-Scenes Look at WrestleMania Week (Video)

Jon Fuentes
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Pat McAfee had a very successful WrestleMania debut earlier this month. The SmackDown Live announcer took on Austin Theory in a one-on-one match and came out victorious when it was all said and done.

Of course, after the match, McAfee found himself in an impromptu match against Vince McMahon, which he ultimately lost. Although he was beaten by McMahon, he got to witness WWE Hall Of Famer Stone Cold Steve Austin hit the ring to take out his two foes. After Austin cleared the ring of Theory and McMahon, he shared a few beers with McAfee.

However, Austin also gave McAfee a stunner to end the segment. Austin’s involvement was especially surprising considering everyone thought Austin’s weekend was done after the previous night. Austin headlined Night One of WrestleMania 38 in a No Holds Barred match against Kevin Owens. Austin was able to pick up the win in his first match in over 19 years. So when Austin’s music hit during Night Two of WrestleMania, the crowd went absolutely nuts.

It was a tremendous match and segment that Pat McAfee was able to be a part of, and the lead up to the event was just as exciting for him. Recently, McAfee took to his YouTube channel to share a behind-the-scenes look at his WrestleMania week.

The video includes a bit of McAfee’s training with Jaime Noble, his interactions with various big names backstage; including Steve Austin and Jake Paul, and his immediate reaction to his WrestleMania moment. You can check out the full video from McAfee’s YouTube channel here below.

Ronda Rousey Reveals Why She’s Using the Ankle Lock

Jon Fuentes
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After making her return to WWE earlier this year at the Royal Rumble, former UFC champion Ronda Rousey decided to add the ankle lock to her in-ring repertoire.

Rousey already had a signature submission of her own with the armbar, a submission that helped her climb to the top of the UFC mountain several years ago. However, upon returning to WWE, while still using the armbar, Rousey has also been using the ankle lock more. The ankle lock, of course, was the signature move of WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle.

Angle was alongside Rousey during her WWE debut at WrestleMania 34. Angle and Rousey teamed up to defeat Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in a Mixed Tag Team match. Speaking in a vlog on her YouTube channel, chronicling her road to this year’s WrestleMania, Rousey explained why she decided to start using Angle’s ankle lock more.

Rousey noted that Angle is like a mentor to her, and has been her hero since she was a child. Now, she uses the move inside the ring as a homage to the Olympic gold medalist.

“I just really wanna be able to put over Kurt as the whole reason that I’m doing the ankle lock, and it’s a way to pay homage to him,” said Rousey (via WrestleZone). “And that’s all I really care about getting out because he was my first mentor in this business, and I never really got to honor him outside of our tag.

“I mean people compare us all the time because we were athletes outside of WWE and then came to it. As an Olympian, he has been like my hero since I was a little kid, so I love that he gave me the blessing to use the ankle lock.”

Ronda Rousey may have come up short against Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 38 for the SmackDown Live Women’s Championship earlier this month, but she’ll get her rematch against “The Queen” at WrestleMania Backlash in an “I Quit” match.

Toni Storm Recalls “Losing Her Mind” Before Quitting WWE

Michael Reichlin
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Toni Storm is speaking out about her abrupt departure from WWE in December 2021.

Storm now finds herself as part of All Elite Wrestling after making her AEW debut two weeks ago. She will be part of the upcoming Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament and battles Jamie Hayter in the opening round.

During a Friday appearance on Busted Open Radio, Storm spoke about the decision to walk away from the job she dreamed about since childhood.

“I guess I just freaked out and went home.”

– Toni Storm on leaving WWE

Shortly after getting called up to WWE’s main roster in late 2021, Storm feuded with Charlotte Flair on SmackDown. It didn’t take long for her to realize that her dream job was not what she envisioned. She also felt it was unfair for her to take a spot on the WWE roster that could go to someone else who actually wants to be there.

Ultimately, it became “abundantly clear” that she was not cut out for life as a WWE Superstar.

“Something just happened and I left,” she said. “I felt like I was having an out of body experience, to be honest. Have you ever just lost your mind? That’s kind of what happened. The stress of not seeing family in years and then just so many overwhelming things all at once. I’ve been happier ever since.”

Despite the nature of her exit, Storm remains grateful for the lessons she learned in WWE and the friends she made there.

Interestingly, Bryan Danielson also spoke about being “oddly detached” in the main event of WrestleMania 37 just months before he decided to leave.

“It was really bizarre,” he told BT Sport. “It’s taken me time to fully process what the experience was like because it wasn’t like a normal thing. I felt very out of body in it. When I’m wrestling, I feel everything and feel like I’m enjoying it. This was weird, I was out there and it felt like I was detached. It was so strange that before the match started, I got this strange feeling like, ‘Oh no, is this what it’s like before you die? Am I going to die? Huh, well, okay.’ I don’t know why or how it happened, but it was unlike anything I’ve felt while wrestling.”

Brock Lesnar Was Never Booked for WrestleMania Backlash (Report)

Jon Fuentes
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Brock Lesnar was recently pulled from WrestleMania Backlash advertisements earlier this week, leading many to believe he had been yanked from the card.

However, according to a report from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Lesnar was never actually booked for the show. Meltzer chalked everything up to a “different kind of false advertising” that WWE usually does. The report added that this is not a situation where WWE changed its mind and decided to pull “The Beast” from the show.

WWE apparently knew Lesnar wasn’t ever going to be at WrestleMania Backlash, but decided to advertise him anyway. It should be noted that, as of this writing, WWE is still advertising Lesnar for the upcoming Money In The Bank show from the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, July 2.

Brock Lesnar dropped the WWE Championship to Roman Reigns in the main event of Night Two of WrestleMania 38. Now, Reigns rules as both WWE Champion and Universal Champion, appearing on both SmackDown Live and Monday Night RAW. There’s currently no news on whether or not WWE plans for Lesnar and Reigns to meet again somewhere down the line. For now, it seems like Lesnar won’t be getting a rematch anytime soon.

Aside from a potential rematch, there’s no news on Lesnar’s WWE future at all aside from WWE advertising him for Money In The Bank. It will be interesting to see what’s next for Lesnar now that he’s seemingly out of the World Title picture for the time being.

Booker T Reacts to WWE Splitting Up MVP & Bobby Lashley

Jon Fuentes
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Two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T has offered his thoughts on WWE making the decision to split up the pair of Bobby Lashley and MVP.

Lashley made his first in-ring return at WrestleMania 38 since the Royal Rumble, taking on Omos. Lashley defeated Omos in the singles bout, but the giant came out on Monday Night RAW the following evening to challenge “The Almighty” to a rematch. However, MVP attacked Lashley, turning on him.

This came as a bit of a surprise considering the pairing was doing very well together, as MVP was even by Lashley’s side during his run as WWE Champion. However, WWE made the decision to finally split the pair up, instead aligning Omos with MVP, and the former United States Champion now serving as his manager. Speaking on his “Hall Of Fame” podcast, Booker T offered his reaction to the decision.

“It’s not for me to like it or not,” Booker said (via 411Mania). “I thought The Hurt Business did some really good work. With MVP at the helm throughout the pandemic, and definitely put a light on that group.

“I really believe MVP was the spark behind Bobby Lashley, I really do. I always thought perhaps Bobby needed that frontman to actually do that part of the work for him. Then he go out and be the clean-up man in the middle of that ring.”

While Booker admits MVP did a lot for Lashley’s character, he also notes that Omos might benefit from MVP’s help as well at this point in his career.

“Omos is definitely a person that may need a little help in that department as well. I think MVP is definitely the right man for that job right now, that he’s doing.”

MLW Offers To Host FTR vs. The Von Erichs

Michael Reichlin
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FTR have been invited to walk through another forbidden door that leads to Major League Wrestling (MLW).

Earlier this week, earlier this week, Twitter account “Luchablog” noticed that FTR recently racked up four wins over tag team comprised of brothers:

  • Dragon Lee and Dralistico
  • The Gunn Club (Austin & Colten Gunn)
  • The Briscoes (Jay and Mark Briscoe)
  • The Young Bucks (Nick and Matt Jackson)

Dax Harwood of FTR asked, “Isn’t there a pair of Von Erich’s running around or something?” In fact, there are. Ross and Marshall Von Erich have been carrying on the family name as they hone their craft in MLW.

Marshall Von Erich saw Harwood’s tweet and replied, “Challenge accepted! My brother and I have never run from a fight and we want to face the best in the world.”

FTR vs. The Von Erichs

The exchange got the attention of MLW CEO Court Bauer, who offered to host this interpromotional tag match at an upcoming show.

Bauer is ready for the Von Erichs to step up against FTR at one of MLW’s upcoming shows, either May 13th from Philadelphia or the next time MLW returns to Dallas (“Von Erich country.”)

https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1514973514129883137

FTR has been on a tear as of late. The reigning ROH and AAA World tag team champions are hell-bent on proving they’re the best team in the world. They’ve shown their willingness to wrestle top challengers no matter what promotion they call home.

MLW returns to Philadelphia’s 2300 arena with Kings of Colosseum 2022 on Friday, May 13th. This is an MLW Fusion taping, with a double main event featuring:

  • MLW World Champion Alex Hammerstone vs. Richard Holliday
  • Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger in a Weapons of Mass Destruction match

If you’re in the Philly area, tickets are now on sale at MLW2300.com.

Cody Rhodes Advertised for Upcoming SmackDown Live

Jon Fuentes
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Cody Rhodes might be gearing up to make his first appearance on SmackDown Live since making his WWE return after all.

As of this writing, WWE’s website is listing Rhodes as one of its featured Superstars for the upcoming SmackDown Live episode on Friday, May 6. This is the go-home edition of SmackDown Live before WrestleMania Backlash, where Rhodes is to rematch Seth Rollins.The May 6 SmackDown will go down from Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, WWE’s first event at the venue in nine years.

Also advertised for the show are SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair, Drew McIntyre, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, and Ronda Rousey. Of course, this is all subject to change. Rhodes made his return to WWE after a great run with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) earlier this month at WrestleMania 38.

He was introduced as Seth Rollins’ mystery opponent, subsequently winning the match. The bout turned out to be one of the best of the weekend. The following night on RAW, Rhodes proclaimed his intentions to chase a World Title now that he’s back in WWE, but first, he has granted Rollins a rematch at Backlash.

As for his SmackDown Live status, Rhodes has only been appearing on Monday Night RAW since WrestleMania. He was initially reported to be scheduled for the SmackDown after WrestleMania as well, however, that was later scrapped. It should be noted that Cody Rhodes isn’t officially listed as a RAW or SmackDown brand member on WWE’s website.

Vince McMahon Drops New Rules for Superstar Names (Report)

Jon Fuentes
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Vince McMahon has released new rules when it comes to naming WWE Superstars moving forward.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter recently touched on the name changes that have been going on within WWE, revealing the roster recently received a memo about Superstar names. Vince McMahon has instructed that he doesn’t want anyone using their real names anymore, or names they used on the indies before WWE.

As noted, WALTER recently had his name changed to Gunther. Also, Raul Mendoza is now Cruz Del Toro as of this past week. However, there’s no news on if he’s being called up to the main roster just yet. Pete Dunne also had his name changed to Butch after being called up to the main roster.

Raquel Gonzalez was also called up to the roster with a name change, now going by Raquel Rodriguez, seemingly being allowed to keep her first name. Of course, there will be obvious exceptions to this rule for the likes of Gable Steveson and Cody Rhodes. But for the likes of Austin Theory, who now goes by simply, Theory, no such luck.

For those who don’t know, the “Austin” from Theory’s name was dropped as his real name is Austin White. There was speculation the change was due to Stone Cold Steve Austin’s involvement in their WrestleMania angle, but this is said to be untrue.

WWE has been pretty weird about changing names randomly for some time now, however, it sounds like they’re getting a lot more strict when it comes to naming their Superstars. What do you think about Vince McMahon and his new naming decree? Sound off in the comments!

Toni Storm Wants Tegan Nox in AEW

Michael Reichlin
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Toni Storm wants to see Tegan Nox (Nixon Newell) join here in All Elite Wrestling.

Storm recently joined AEW and is part of the inaugural Owen Hart Foundation Cup Women’s Tournament. The brackets have not been announced yet, but AEW President Tony Khan has signed Toni Storm vs. Jamie Hayter as a first round match.

Storm appeared on Friday’s episode of Busted Open Radio and expressed her desire to work with Tegan Nox once again. Host Dave Lagreca asked Storm if there is one particular opponent that you’d love to have in AEW.

Storm replied, “Oh my god. Um, Tegan Nox, I would have to say, would be high up on that list. I think that would be someone who would really deserve an awesome spot like that.”

She added, “I know she loves this business as much as I do, so that would be cool to see that one day in the future. Who knows, anything can happen, it’s pro wrestling.”

Nox was released by WWE back in November 2021. She is a free agent and could work anywhere else effective immediately.

Thanks to the Putting You Over podcast for sending in this tip.

Ricochet & Jinder Mahal Talk Trash Ahead of SmackDown

Michael Reichlin
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Tonight’s WWE SmackDown takes place from Worcester, Massachusetts at the DCU Center. The top items advertised for the show include:

  • Jinder Mahal challenges Ricochet for the Intercontinental championship
  • Drew McIntyre faces Sami Zayn

We can also expect continued hype for WrestleMania Backlash, including a possible appearance by Raw tag team champions RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Riddle).

Jinder Mahal and Ricochet have been going back and forth on Twitter, talking trash ahead of their championship showdown.

On Thursday, Jinder Mahal wrote that the Modern Day Maharajah will rule once again when he embarrasses the current champion.

Ricochet replied with a sick burn about Mahal’s photo-cropping skills and says Mahal is the one who will be left embarrassed after the match.

News On Satnam Singh’s AEW Debut

Anutosh Bajpai
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The main event of this week’s Dynamite saw Samoa Joe becoming the new ROH TV champion. This win, however, was overshadowed by the debut of Satnam Singh.

The Indian star joined forces with Sonjay Dutt and Jay Lethal. They attacked the new champion. The whole angle received mixed reactions from the fans.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer recently talked about Singh’s AEW debut. He mentioned that Tony Khan’s idea was to shoot an angle that would be a breakthrough in the Indian market:

“As part of the first week after the Discovery merger, Tony Khan wanted to shoot an angle that would be a breakthrough in that market using someone of some renown in that country”

The wrestling journalist noted that Satnam Singh will be managed by Sonjay Dutt. This pair will be used to promote the company in India.

Singh is the only Indian-born player to be ever drafted by NBA. The giant was a second-round draft choice of the Dallas Mavericks in 2015.

Author’s Note: While the idea to use an Indian origin talent to promote the company in the country is great, AEW first needs to create some brand awareness in India.

The Discovery-owned Eurosport channel was rebranded in March 2020. It doesn’t have the same reach as their WWE counterpart, Sony Ten Network channels.

WWE hasn’t been regular with their promotion in India. AEW has many known faces in their roster they can use to promote the show as an alternative wrestling product. They can send in some stars on tours to garner media attention.

In the time Satnam Singh completes his training, this tactic can be used to increase the recognization of AEW. This will help them maximise the buzz around him when Singh is ready to be pushed properly.

Adam Cole Says CM Punk Match ‘Has To Happen’

Anutosh Bajpai
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Adam Cole has discussed the influence of CM Punk on his career multiple times in the past. It’s only natural that Punk has been a longtime dream match for the former NXT champion. Now that the two stars are finally in the same promotion, Cole says that this match ‘just has to happen.’

The AEW star recently had an interview with FightFul. He discussed things such as Triple H’s recent health scare and more. Talking about Punk, he mentioned how there was a time when he thought he would never get to wrestle the Straight Edge Star. Though now he cannot get the possibility out of his head:

“It hasn’t happened yet, but CM Punk is my huge one. That’s a good one because again, I’ve made it very clear that for me personally,” said Adam Cole, “he was one of the most impactful professional wrestlers as far as inspiration goes.

Cole Continued: “I remember seeing him in Ring of Honor, watching his promos and going, I really really want to focus on getting good on the microphone because of listening to him talk. Then I thought, ‘Okay, he retired. It’s never gonna happen.’ Now the fact that it’s a possibility, I can’t get it out of my head, I know that someday it just has to happen.”

Taya Valkyrie Returns to MLW May 13th Philadelphia Event

Michael Reichlin
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Taya Valkyrie returns to MLW on Friday, May 13th at the Kings of Colosseum ’22 event from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

The Queen of Lucha’s big return was announced on this week’s MLW Fusion. Valkyrie last competed for MLW in September 2019.

Taya has held championships around the world and will be a contender for the new MLW World Featherweight championship that is being introduced soon.

In a statement released on Thursday, MLW CEO Court Bauer had this to say about Taya Valkyrie:

“Frankly, money is how I’d describe Taya,” said Bauer. “Taya is a world class athlete and force of nature. Taya’s arrival will send shockwaves through the division. The road to winning the featherweight title just got a lot harder for her fellow competitors.”

The following matches have ben announced for MLW Kings of Colosseum ’22 on 5/13:

World Heavyweight Championship
Alex Hammerstone (c) vs. Richard Holliday (with Alicia Atout)

Weapons of Mass Destruction Match
Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger

Also appearing:

  • Davey Richards
  • nZo
  • Microman with Mister Saint Laurent
  • World Tag Team Champions Hustle & Power (Calvin Tankman & EJ Nduka)
  • Ross & Marshall Von Erich
  • National Openweight Champion Alex Kane (with Mr. Thomas)
  • World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed
  • Cesar Duran
  • Gangrel
  • King Muertes
  • TJP
  • Aramis
  • Arez
  • Matt Cross
  • ACH
  • Holidead
  • KC Navarro
  • Savio Vega

Three Huge Bouts Announced for WWE April UK Tour

Jon Fuentes
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WWE has announced that their WWE London and France shows will have three huge matches during their European tour.

WWE will hold a show from the Utilita Arena on Thursday, April 28 in Newcastle, England; The O2 Arena from London, England on Friday, April 29; the Accor Arena from Paris, France on Saturday, April 30; and finally the QUARTERBACK Immobilien Arena in Leipzig, Germany on Sunday, May 1.

However, the WWE London and France shows have had three bouts announced featuring champions, including Undisputed Champion Roman Reigns.

The shows will feature:

  • Undisputed WWE Champion Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre
  • SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey
  • SmackDown Live Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. RAW Tag Team Champions RK-Bro

Also advertised for those shows are WWE Intercontinental Champion Ricochet, WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi, Gunther, and Bobby Lashley. Matches for the Newcastle and Leipzig events are expected to be announced soon.

It should also be noted that the SmackDown Live taping on Friday, April 22 from the MVP Arena in Albany, New York has a special start time of 6:30pm ET. This hints that the show will be a double taping, meaning the April 29 episode of SmackDown Live will be pre-taped while WWE is running their show in London.

Currently advertised for the Albany, New York show on April 22 are Reigns, McIntyre, Ricochet, Banks and Naomi, The Usos, RK-Bro, Rousey, RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, and Rhea Ripley. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.

Austin Theory Reveals Backstage Reaction to Vince McMahon’s Stunner Botch

Jon Fuentes
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Austin Theory was front and center for Vince McMahon’s horrendous stunner sell with Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 38, and knows better than anyone how the locker room reacted once McMahon returned backstage through the curtain.

Speaking to Mark Andrews: My Love Letter to Pro Wrestling, Theory revealed that the locker room, especially the female talents, teased McMahon for the botched stunner once he returned backstage. However, it sounds like the boss took it all in stride and laughed it off.

“It was really cool. When Mr. McMahon walked to the back, everyone was screaming at him,” Theory said (via Fightful). “It was a lot of the female wrestlers, they were screaming at him and messing with him. He was like, ‘Okay, okay.’ It was proud, like being proud of your dad.

“Pat comes through and everyone was proud of what we did out there and everyone enjoyed it. You know it went well when everyone in the back enjoyed it. It was awesome. Even days after and now, hearing so much about it, you know you made that WrestleMania moment, which is really cool to me.”

McMahon was initially sitting ringside for Theory’s match with Pat McAfee, but angrily entered the ring after Austin Theory came up short against the SmackDown Live commentator. After ordering an impromptu match between himself and McAfee, it didn’t take McMahon long to put the ex-NFL punter down for a three-count. After the match, however, Austin hit the ring to give stunners to all three men – Theory, McAfee, and McMahon.

“The Chairman” is no stranger to taking stunners, probably having taken more than anyone over the years given his famed rivalry with Austin throughout the Attitude Era, but this one was one of the worst of all time. While Night Two of WrestleMania didn’t offer the best closing stunner, Night One certainly did.

Austin made his in-ring return after over 19 years, defeating Kevin Owens in a No Holds Barred match after nailing “KO” with the stunner. His appearance the following night wasn’t advertised, nor expected, but it was a tremendous treat nonetheless.

Adam Cole Comments on Triple H’s Recent Health Issues

Jon Fuentes
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All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star and former NXT star Adam Cole has offered his comments on Triple H’s recent health scare.

“The Game” recently opened up about his near-death experience and also admitted that he is now retired from in-ring competition as a result of his health complications. Cole, who worked closely with Triple H in NXT over the years, offered his thoughts on the situation during an interview with Fightful.

Cole noted that he thinks the world of Triple H after the time they spent together at NXT, saying he learned a lot from him and considers him a mentor. He added that he was very disheartened to learn that Triple H was forced to retire due to his health concerns because he knows how much wrestling means to “The Game,” however, his health is what’s most important.

“So truth be told, with the way stuff has been going lately, I’m just happy he’s okay,” Cole said. “But yeah, I mean, everything that he’s given to the wrestling industry and the wrestling business will never be forgotten, whether it be his in ring career, or the countless amount of people he’s influenced within NXT and the countless people he’s taught within NXT. So I really do, I love Triple H. I admire the hell out of him, and I’m glad he’s alright.”

Adam Cole left WWE back in 2021 after his contract with the company expired. He later made his debut for AEW at their All Out pay-per-view (PPV). During his run with NXT, Cole became an NXT Triple Crown Champion, winning the promotion’s World Title, North American Title, and Tag Team Titles.

As for Triple H, the 13-time World Champion can hang his hat on a career that will surely go down as one of the greatest of all time. After helping shape the professional wrestling industry in the ring, he now helps shape it behind the curtain, playing a huge role in molding the stars of the future.

Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

Kurt Angle Reacts to Vince McMahon’s Botched WrestleMania Stunner

Jon Fuentes
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WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle is the latest professional wrestling legend of note to chime in on Vince McMahon’s horrendous sell job of Steve Austin’s stunner at WrestleMania 38.

Angle took to his podcast, “The Kurt Angle Show,” to reflect on WrestleMania 38 weekend and all of its big surprises. One of those surprises being Stone Cold Steve Austin making his in-ring return. Austin took on Kevin Owens in a No Disqualification match, his first official bout in over 19 years, winning with a stunner to close out the show.

The following night, Austin returned for Night Two, interrupting Vince McMahon’s celebration for his win over Pat McAfee. Austin hit stunners on Theory, McAfee, and McMahon – the latter being one of the worst sold stunners of all time. “The Olympic Hero” described the moment as a “disaster.”

“I gave him a hug and said good luck to him. I didn’t see him afterward. I’m sure he was a little pissed off about Vince and the way he took the Stunner,” Angle said. (via Fightful). “Yeah, it was crazy because Austin was chugging these beers and you could see his lips say ‘That motherf***er.’ Vince’s timing was just bad.

“You know, he didn’t know when the jump. He didn’t know where you’re gonna go down, up and down. He just thought you’re gonna go up and down and with Austin, he didn’t expect the boot to the gut, he thought he’s just gonna Stun him.

“So when Steve booted him, Vince went to his knees… Steve had to pick him back up and then he tried to get him and Vince backed up into the ropes, and he bounced off the ropes. It was like a disaster.”

Although the stunner was terrible, it was still nostalgic for fans to see Austin and McMahon rekindle their rivalry that helped make “The Rattlesnake’s” run during the Attitude Era so iconic. Not to mention how shocking it was to see Austin make another appearance after everyone thought he was done following his victory the previous night where he closed out Night One of WrestleMania 38.

Paul Heyman Reflects on ECW Barely Legal 25th Anniversary

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Paul Heyman wasn’t going to stay quiet on the 25th anniversary of the ECW Barely Legal event.

The event took place back on April 13, 1997. It was held inside the ECW Arena, now the 2300 Arena, in Philadelphia, PA. In the main event, Terry Funk defeated Raven to become the ECW World Heavyweight Champion.

Paul Heyman Looks Back

Paul Heyman took to his Instagram account to reflect on the 25th anniversary of Barely Legal.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CcUa6VmDIz3/

“Sigh.

“I suck at being nostalgic.

“I’m still too ambitious, looking for new things to accomplish. Yet I would be remiss if I didn’t say SOMETHING about this anniversary.

“ECW Barely Legal did not take place at a time where there was 1 brand so dominant, it was easy for companies to call themselves alternative or revolutionary.

“We took on two billion-dollar companies during the most hyper-competitive environment in the history of the industry.

“ECW’s fight to get on PPV has been covered in books, documentaries, et al. From PPV distributors’ confusion w/ MMA; our competitors doing everything to keep us off PPV; our uncompromising insistence on doing the show w/ our directors, a one-man announce booth, from the world’s most infamous bingo hall on literally the wrong side of the tracks in South Philly; we were willing to die before we’d sell out our vision.

“As much credit as we get for being outlaws, true to our cause … we weren’t the ones who got ECW cleared on PPV. It was our fans.

“The emails; letter-writing campaigns; bombarding cable company execs w/ round-the-clock faxes (what’s a FAX?); picketing #Cablevision offices. ECW was a true revolution.

“We didn’t have sponsors, billion dollar trust funds, secret financiers. We had balls, a belief in ourselves and our fans, who championed the cause, changed the industry forever.

“I don’t like writing these looks back because the journey to PPV was filled with such moment-by-moment heart-pounding pressure, it’s impossible to encapsulate in mere words. It’s why I’ve shunned all pushes for a scripted movie to be made about it. #BubbaRayDudley likes to say ECW was wrestling’s version of #Napster. We weren’t meant to last. We were there to lead the revolution, indeed evolution, of where the business would go. I often tap out trying to describe it better.

“We did it. We made it. The ECW fans got us there.

“For that, I will forever be indebted … and I’m going to spend the rest of my career continuing that passion, drive, ambition to over-deliver past anyone’s expectations; to be part of something where the level of performance is … all puns intended…EXTREME!”

ECW remains near and dear to Heyman. He ran the promotion until it was forced to close in 2001.

Heyman recently named two ECW legends who he’d like to see in the WWE Hall of Fame. He appeared on the Battleground Podcast and said his picks are Sabu and Joey Styles.

Booker T Wants Cody Rhodes to Dethrone Roman Reigns

Jon Fuentes
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WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T knows exactly who he wants to be the one to finally dethrone Roman Reigns.

The two-time Hall Of Famer took to his podcast, “The Hall Of Fame,” to offer his thoughts on the current World Title picture. Booker explained that he’d like to see Rhodes get a World Title reign by defeating Reigns, even if it means getting the title back around “The Tribal Chief’s” waist before the next WrestleMania.

“I don’t see why Cody can’t take the title off Roman in the meantime,” Booker said (via WrestlingInc.). “Roman could easily get it back by the time WrestleMania comes back around, we’ve got plenty of time to be able to switch that back, if that’s the route we are going to go in. If that’s the route they’re thinking, I suggest yes, we go that route of Rock and Roman, because it’s money.”

Reigns comes off of a big WrestleMania 38 win over Brock Lesnar, capturing the WWE Championship to unify with the Universal Title he already held. Now, having topped “The Beast” in Dallas, it remains to be seen who will be Reigns’ next big opponent. In the meantime, he’s focused on collecting more gold for The Bloodline in the form of getting The Usos to capture the RAW Tag Team Titles.

Rhodes finally made his return to WWE at WrestleMania 38, being introduced as Seth Rollins’ mystery opponent. “The American Nightmare” came out on top in the matchup, which was undoubtedly one of the best of the entire weekend. Now, Rhodes has made it clear he came back to WWE with his sights set firmly on a World Title. And right now, that road goes through Roman Reigns.

Reigns may sense Rhodes is creeping up on his run as Unified Champion, as he recently destroyed a fan’s Cody Rhodes sign after Monday Night RAW went off-air this week.

WrestleMania 38 Producer Joins AEW (Report)

Jon Fuentes
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It looks like a producer who worked WrestleMania 38 earlier this month has jumped ship to All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

As we reported earlier this month, Pat Buckridge resigned from WWE shortly after WrestleMania 38. Buckridge reportedly made the decision to step away after claiming he had already achieved his goals of producing some of the biggest matches in wrestling, and wanted to spend more time with his family. Specifically, Buckridge produced the Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar and Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair matches at “The Show of Shows.”

Buckridge also worked in WWE’s Talent Relations department. Now, per a report from PWInsider, Buckrige was backstage at AEW Dynamite this week and has started with the company as a producer. While WWE’s rigorous travel schedule was too much for Buckridge given his desire to spend more time with his family, AEW’s seems to be a much better fit for the veteran.

Shortly after his WWE departure earlier this month, he released the following statement, reflecting on his three years with the company:

“As a producer/agent, I feel that I have accomplished everything I wanted to do within WWE in the last three years. My endless gratitude beams from working with so many wonderful talents, especially the ultra talented Women’s Division. To my Producer brothers (and sister): You are the greatest collection of misfits that I’ve ever been with.

“I already miss my second family. Thank you John Laurinaitis for bringing me into this wonderful group and thank you Freebird for being our foul mouthed general. And to my fellow New Yawka, Paul Heyman.

“Thanks for providing a mitzvah and helping this gentile out. Sending love to the production truck, stage crew, parking, travel, makeup, photo, digital, security, IT, writers, props, social, legal, seamsters, live events, medical, and any other department that I’ve leaned on for something.

“I look forward to using my new time to return/expand my training schools/promotions, working all over, and sleeping in my own bed more than twice a week. To my darling wife, Lauren and baby Harrison. I don’t know how you put up with this gypsy. I [heart emoji] you both. Dada will be home soon.”

Former Chief of Staff Says The Rock Could Be a Threat to Trump in 2024

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The Rock could make a serious run for POTUS if Donald Trump’s former Chief of Staff is to be believed.

Rock is perhaps the busiest man in Hollywood. He is highly sought after in the industry but could he be pushing that aside for a presidential run in 2024? Mick Mulvaney, former Chief of Staff for Trump, seems to think so.

Could The Rock Threaten Trump In 2024?

Mulvaney told Politico (via Mediaite) that The Rock is right up there with Florida governor Ron DeSantis and senator Tim Scott as potential presidential candidates who could threaten another run for Donald Trump.

“[Gov. Ron] DeSantis [R-FL] could give him a run for his money. [Sen.] Tim Scott [R-SC] can give him a run for his money. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson could give him a run for his money,” Mulvaney said.

It’s important to note that Trump hasn’t stated his intention to run again. With that said, speculation has run rampant on who will be making a run to challenge POTUS Joe Biden in 2024.

The Rock has expressed interest in politics in the past. He once told USA Today that he’d be open to the idea of running if that’s what the American people want.

“I would consider a presidential run in the future if that’s what the people wanted. Truly I mean that, and I’m not flippant in any way with my answer. That would be up to the people … So I would wait, and I would listen. I would have my finger on the pulse, my ear to the ground.”

The TV Show, “Young Rock” is built around the Hollywood megastar running for president. That doesn’t necessarily mean he’s going to give it a go for office in real life but it does stoke the flames.

During a recent episode of “Young Rock” a potential match with Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns was teased.

Details on WWE’s Internal Ranking of Talent on Raw & SmackDown

Michael Reichlin
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With WrestleMania 38 in the history books, we look ahead to what’s next for WWE’s top Superstars.

As WWE’s creative team formulates plans for upcoming feuds, they use a “depth chart” that ranks specific performers. Information obtained by PWInsider reveals the current standing of the top babyfaces and heels on the Raw and SmackDown brands.

This article has been updated to reflect the men’s and women’s singles divisions. These rankings should be considered “internal guidelines” that WWE uses for booking, but still provides a unique look at how certain performers will be positioned in the coming months.

Raw

Here’s a look at the depth-chart for Raw. It’s worth noting that Roman Reigns is only included on the SmackDown side, even though he holds the top title on Raw as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. WWE is reportedly still in the process of deciding how the unification scenario will play out.

Babyfaces

  1. Bobby Lashley
  2. Cody Rhodes
  3. AJ Styles
  1. Bianca Belair
  2. Alexa Bliss
  3. Rhea Ripley.

Heels

  1. Seth Rollins
  2. Kevin Owens
  3. Edge
  4. Damian Priest
  1. Becky Lynch
  2. Carmella
  3. Zelina

SmackDown

On the SmackDown side, we have limited rankings for the men’s singles division.

Heels

  1. Roman Reigns

Babyfaces

  1. Drew McIntyre

Intercontinental Champion Ricochet was listed as a top babyface on the SmackDown roster on another recent booking sheet.

WWE SummerSlam 2022 Tickets On Sale Friday, April 22

Michael Reichlin
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WWE SummerSlam 2022 tickets will go on sale next Friday, April 22nd at 10pm CT.

This year’s SummerSlam takes place Saturday, July 30, from Nashville, Tennessee at Nissan Stadium. The venue is home to the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and has a maximum capacity of over 69,000 people.

SummerSlam start at $25 and will be available via Ticketmaster.com. Wrestling fans interested in attending SummerSlam can register for presale opportunities at WWE.com.

Nissan Stadium

This year will mark first time WWE’s summer spectacular emanates from Tennessee. It’s the second consecutive year that SummerSlam is held in a football stadium. Last year’s event was held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, NV.

WWE is also offering SummerSlam Priority Passes, which provides “immersive VIP experiences” that will include premier seating, a dedicated stadium entrance, premium hospitality offerings and meet-and-greets with WWE Superstars and Legends.

Visit OnLocationEXP.com for details on the Priority Pass experiences.

Mickie James Reflects On Her 2022 Royal Rumble Appearance

Michael Reichlin
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Mickie James’ participation in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble was significant in many ways. It marked the first time a reigning champion from Impact Wrestling competed on WWE programming.

The latest WWE 24 documentary takes an inside look at this year’s Rumble. WWE has released bonus footage from the show featuring backstage footage of James’ experience at the event.

Mickie James said she’s excited and grateful to be welcomed back to WWE with open arms. The last time she was at a WWE event was WrestleMania 37 weekend. She was released shortly after WrestleMania.


Even though Ronda Rousey was the last woman standing at the end of the Royal Rumble, it was still a very special night for James.

“No matter what, everybody wins.”

– Mickie James

Kofi Kingston said the Royal Rumble brings a special level excitement each year, but having a champion from another promotion enter the Women’s Rumble was really something unique.

James said it felt great to create history one more time and hear the WWE Universe react to her so warmly. She didn’t think she’d be back in WWE, but felt the love that fateful night.

WWE 24: Royal Rumble St. Louis is now streaming on Peacock in the US and on the WWE Network internationally.

ROH World Title Match Set For AEW Battle of the Belts

Ryan Droste
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It’s a big week for Ring of Honor Wrestling on AEW television.

Despite the future of ROH itself being unknown, their championships have been featured this week on national television. Wednesday night’s edition of AEW Dynamite saw Samoa Joe defeat Minoru Suzuki for the ROH Television Championship in the main event of the broadcast. It was a fantastic match that unfortunately was somewhat overshadowed by some loud criticism surrounding the way the end of the show was booked with Satnam Singh’s debut.

That being said, it was also announced on Wednesday night that ROH World Champion Jonathan Gresham will defend his championship against Dalton Castle this Saturday night during the second edition of AEW Battle of the Belts on TNT.

Other matches announced for AEW Battle of the Belts II include:

AEW Women’s Championship Match
Thunder Rosa (c) vs. Nyla Rose

AEW TNT Championship Match
Scorpio Sky (c) vs. Sammy Guevara

There has been lots of gold on the line this week. In addition to the aforementioned ROH TV Championship match, Dynamite this week also featured Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus sucessfully defending the AEW Tag Team Championships against reDRagon (Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish).

The AEW World Championship will also be on the line this week, though that bout will occur Friday night on Rampage. “Hangman” Adam Page will put the title on the line against Adam Cole in a Texas Deathmatch.

Make sure to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube. 

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