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Seth Rollins Questions If ‘Fragile Phil’ CM Punk Can Make It to WrestleMania

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WWE Superstar Seth Rollins hasn’t grown tired talking trash about his old pal, CM Punk. During an appearance on Not Just Football with Cam Heyward, Rollins took a sharp jab at his longtime rival, casting doubt on whether Punk can stay healthy enough to make it to WrestleMania 41.

“CM Punk’s gotta make it to WrestleMania this year. Last year, he didn’t. Last year, he didn’t make it to WrestleMania. Fragile Phil got hurt.”

The animosity between Rollins and Punk has been brewing for years, with Rollins previously calling Punk a “cancer” to the locker room.

With rumors swirling about a potential Triple Threat match at WrestleMania 41 featuring Rollins, Punk, and Roman Reigns, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion made it clear who the real workhorse is.

“I am healthy and prime. I am there every single week. I’m the only 100% guarantee of the three of us for WrestleMania.”

With Punk sidelined since January due to a torn triceps, his WrestleMania status remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Rollins is gearing up for Elimination Chamber, a match he admits is brutal but one he’s prepared to endure.

Whether or not Punk makes it to the grandest stage of them all, Rollins has already set the tone—there’s no love lost between these two, and if they do meet at WrestleMania, it’s going to get personal.

Seth Rollins vs. CM Punk

Seth Rollins vs. CM Punk was arguably one of WWE’s hottest feuds of 2024, but due to injuries, the two didn’t get a chance to settle their score in the ring until January 6, 2025 on the WWE Raw Netflix premiere.

The long-awaited showdown, emanating from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, lived up to its immense hype, featuring a brutal display of one-upmanship as both superstars appropriated each other’s finishing moves – Rollins attempting Punk’s GTS while Punk mockingly delivered Rollins’ signature Stomp.

After the action spilled into the crowd and saw Rollins execute two devastating Pedigrees, including one through the announce table, it was ultimately CM Punk who emerged victorious, sealing his first Raw victory in over 4,000 days with back-to-back GTS finishers.

The bout marked only their second-ever singles encounter, with their previous match taking place over a decade earlier in December 2013, making this high-stakes Netflix premiere even more historic.

WWE 2K25: 15 Bloodline Showcase Matches Revealed

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WWE 2K25‘s Showcase Mode will focus on The Bloodline and the legendary Anoa’i family, one of wrestling’s greatest dynasties. Now, fans have learned what matches they can look forward to as part of the Bloodline Showcase in three exciting modes:

Relive History:

  • Yokozuna w/ Mr. Fuji vs. Hulk Hogan – King of the Ring ‘93;
  • Rocky Maivia vs. Hunter Hearst Helmsley – RAW February 13, 1997;
  • Nia Jax vs. Lyra Valkyria – Queen of the Ring ‘24;
  • The Usos vs. The New Day w/ Big E – Hell in a Cell ‘17;
  • Solo Sikoa vs. Carmelo Hayes w/ Trick Williams – NXT September 13, 2022.

Change History:

  • The Headshrinkers (Samu and Fatu) vs. The Steiner Bros – WrestleMania IX;
  • Rikishi vs. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin – No Mercy 2000;
  • Umaga w/ Armando Estrada vs. John Cena – New Year’s Revolution 2007;
  • Tamina vs. Natalya vs. Carmella vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch – Money in the Bank ‘17;
  • Naomi vs. Bayley – Super ShowDown ‘20;
  • Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins – Royal Rumble ‘22.

Create History:

  • “High Chief” Peter Miavia vs. George “The Animal” Steele;
  • The Wild Samoans (Afa and Sika) vs. The Dudley Boyz;
  • The OG Bloodline vs. New Bloodline in WarGames;
  • The Islanders (Haku and Tama) vs. The Street Profits;
  • And more!

WWE 2K25 is set to release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game set to release one week early for eager gamers. With a roster of over 300 playable characters, this year’s game will be the literal biggest WWE game of all time, and one that will feature plenty from The Bloodline.

Former WWE Announcer Samantha Irvin: ‘You’d Have to be Dead Inside’ to Not Feel the Magic

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Samantha Irvin’s journey has taken her from the high-energy world of wrestling to the creative freedom of music, but her connection to wrestling remains profoundly emotional and genuine.

In recent appearances on Busted Open, she opened up about both her love for the business and a particularly moving moment at WrestleMania 41. Reflecting on her time as a WWE ring announcer, she shared:

“You would have to be dead inside to hear [The Rock’s music] sitting in my chair with my background and my past and not be excited.”

During another recent appearance on Busted Open, Irvin revealed a deeply personal moment from WrestleMania 41, where she announced Cody Rhodes’ capture the Undisputed WWE Championship. “I was not there for work. I was literally there, like, just as me, just Sammie,” she explained.

“I started crying before the finish. I started crying when The Undertaker came out. And then Cody winning… it all just came crashing down. Every sad thing, every crazy thing, all the stuff in wrestling that you can’t talk about. It just all came out in that moment.”

As someone who has lived and breathed wrestling, Samantha continues to maintain her connection to the industry while pursuing her other passions. Her genuine emotional investment in the business shows through in every appearance, demonstrating that her bond with wrestling extends far beyond her professional role.

Samantha Irvin Eyes Creative Role in Wrestling

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Samantha is looking beyond her announcing career and setting her sights on a potential future in wrestling’s creative side, where she hopes to contribute as a writer or booker. During a recent appearance on Busted Open, she reflected on her journey in professional wrestling and hinted at what could come next.

“I would have loved to try every single thing… but really, I would like to write… Paul Heyman is absolutely a big inspiration to me.”

Heyman, a legendary figure in wrestling known for his innovative storytelling, has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of countless superstars. Samantha, inspired by his creativity, hopes to one day contribute to the industry in a similar way.

A New Era for Women in Wrestling

Samantha’s ambitions come at a time when women are increasingly taking on leadership and creative positions in wrestling. As more female voices emerge in the world of booking and storytelling, the industry is evolving beyond traditional gender roles.

Her ability to bring a fresh perspective and deep understanding of wrestling could make her a valuable asset behind the scenes. While music is her primary focus now, her love for the business suggests that a return to wrestling—this time as a creative force—may not be far off.

Seth Rollins Explains Why He Was Not Upset About Not Making Final Cut Of ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ 

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Seth Rollins filmed scenes for Captain America: Brave New World, which is set for release this month. However, his role was ultimately cut from the final version of the film.

The movie stars Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, Tim Blake Nelson, Shira Haas, Harrison Ford, and Liv Tyler. Written by Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson and directed by Julius Onah, the film originally included Rollins, who was spotted on set in 2023.

Rollins recently explained why he wasn’t upset about being cut from the film during an appearance on Not Just Football with Cam Heyward.

“I wasn’t gonna talk about it too much because I never know what I can say. But I saw the director had an interview this week, Julius Onah, who’s a phenomenal dude. He did an interview, and they asked him about my role and what happened with it and stuff like that, so I feel like I can talk about it a little bit more.

Basically, I got repurposed for Giancarlo Esposito, who is a hell of an actor, special cat. So to lose out to him doesn’t hurt my feelings. The bottom line is, the movie went through a lot of adjustments. The original script is not the script that they ended up with. My character itself, I don’t know if it got repurposed or if it just got scrapped and a whole new thing went in there. But I had a great time filming with those guys. We did some really cool stuff that’s on the cutting room floor. I hope that somehow it lives in Easter egg form somewhere. I’d love to see some of the shots of that.

I won’t give away too much, but it was a great experience. But yeah, they cut me. They cut me from the role. They’ve cut the family. My wife [Becky Lynch] had a role in Eternals. She did a post-credit scene for the original Eternals film. The Eternals franchise was intended to be multiple films, and she was supposed to be involved in that, and they cut her too. They cut the whole family, man.”

Despite the cut, Rollins remains focused on his wrestling career. He is expected to face CM Punk and Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 41 in mid-April.

Chelsea Green Declares WWE’s Most ‘Diva’ Male Superstar

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Chelsea Green, WWE Women’s United States Champion, recently ranked WWE’s most “Diva-coded” male superstars, evaluating who best embodies Diva qualities like confidence, style, and presence.

In an interview with Ring the Belle host DS, she judged fan-submitted nominees, narrowing the field down to top contenders like Seth Rollins, Dolph Ziggler, and Pretty Deadly.

Rollins was an early favorite, with Green noting,

“Because of longevity, we’re going with Seth, because we have seen it time and time again, and he slays—serves Diva drag.”

However, in the final round, she ultimately chose Pretty Deadly as WWE’s most Diva-coded male stars.

“To put a swerve on it, I’m going to say Pretty Deadly wins. They’re giving Diva in other aspects, not just their gear.”

WWE Pretty Deadly
Pretty Deadly (Photo: WWE)

Green further praised the duo, adding,

“I actually use their gear girl now because their gear is so good. So Diva, so girly pop!”

She stood by her decision, stating,

“If you had asked me that question without showing me the bracket, I still would have said Pretty Deadly.”

At the conclusion of the segment, Green also addressed her fans and her role as the inaugural WWE Women’s United States Champion, saying, “Pledge your allegiance, honey, because it’s up from here!”

Check out Chelsea Green’s appearance on Ring the Belle:

AEW Double or Nothing 2025 Heads to Glendale, AZ on Sunday, May 25

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All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has officially announced that its annual Double or Nothing pay-per-view will take place at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Fans eager to attend can take advantage of VIP Early Access, which is available now. Presale tickets will be released on Friday, February 21, while general ticket sales begin on Monday, February 24.

This marks another major event for AEW at the Desert Diamond Arena, which has previously hosted high-profile wrestling and entertainment events.

Ticket Sales & Key Dates:

  • VIP Early Access: Available now
  • Presale Begins: Friday, February 21
  • General Tickets On Sale: Monday, February 24

Paul Heyman Leads WWE 2K25’s Bloodline Showcase: An Interactive Documentary

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2K has officially unveiled WWE 2K25’s highly anticipated 2K Showcase: The Bloodline’s Dynasty, offering players an immersive, first-of-its-kind retelling of The Bloodline’s historic rise in WWE.

Narrated by Paul Heyman, this interactive documentary-style mode allows fans to relive iconic matches, rewrite key moments, and even create fantasy showdowns featuring legends from the Anoa’i, Fatu, and Maivia wrestling families.

An Interactive Bloodline Documentary Led by Paul Heyman

In the newly released trailer, Heyman takes center stage as the voice of the first-ever playable Bloodline documentary, guiding players through the triumphs, setbacks, and defining battles of the dynasty.

The mode is divided into three key experiences:

  • Relive History: Play through legendary matchups such as Yokozuna vs. Hulk Hogan at King of the Ring 1993 and Rocky Maivia vs. Hunter Hearst Helmsley on RAW in 1997.
  • Change History: Rewrite the past by avenging major Bloodline defeats, including Rikishi vs. Stone Cold at No Mercy 2000 and Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins at Royal Rumble 2022.
  • Create History: Explore fantasy dream matches that never happened, like The Wild Samoans vs. The Dudley Boyz and High Chief Peter Maivia vs. George “The Animal” Steele.

Unlike previous WWE 2K Showcase modes, all cutscenes will now feature in-game cinematics instead of historical live-action footage, enhancing immersion and authenticity.

A Massive WWE 2K25 Roster with New Additions

Earlier this week, 2K also revealed WWE 2K25 will feature the biggest roster in franchise history, with over 300 playable Superstars. New Bloodline additions include Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa, alongside returning legends like The Wild Samoans, The Islanders, and The Headshrinkers. Other first-time additions include Oba Femi, Ethan Page, Sol Ruca, Kelani Jordan, and Alundra Blayze.

WWE 2K25 Release Dates & Editions

  • Standard Edition – Releases worldwide on March 14, 2025
  • Deadman Edition & The Bloodline Edition – Available digitally on March 7, 2025

Pre-orders for any edition include the Wyatt Sicks Pack, featuring Uncle Howdy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross, Joe Gacy, and Erick Rowan. Digital pre-orders also grant access to WWE 2K24 Standard Edition.

For more details, visit the official WWE 2K25 website and follow on social media using #WWE2K25 and #RuleBeyondTheRing.

Rumor: WWE Considering Jacob Fatu vs. Solo Sikoa at WrestleMania 41

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Jacob Fatu has been a dominant force since his WWE debut last year, and a reliable WWE insider says the company is discussing a prominent match for the “Samoan Warewolf” at WrestleMania.

According to WrestleVotes on Backstage Pass, WWE has had serious discussions about a high-stakes clash between Jacob Fatu and his cousin, Solo Sikoa, at WrestleMania 41.

Initially, there was speculation that Solo Sikoa might face Roman Reigns, but it now appears the focus has shifted toward a family rivalry between Solo and Fatu.

“I do know they’re gearing up towards Jacob versus Solo. fter months of speculation that Solo was going to wrestle Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, they shift that to Jacob Fatu, and we’ll see how it plays out. But I do believe that’s the direction,” WrestleVotes reported.

This development follows Fatu’s failure to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match on SmackDown, despite interference from Sikoa. The two also had a tense backstage confrontation, signaling growing tensions within The Bloodline.

While Fatu has long been loyal to Sikoa as part of the revamped Bloodline faction, their dynamic is changing. Fans have noticed the shift, and WWE appears to be leaning into this evolving storyline.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest WWE news on Road to WrestleMania 41, set for April 19-20, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Logan Paul Insists WWE Fans ‘Love & Revere’ Him—Michael Cole Shuts Him Down: ‘Yeah… No’

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Logan Paul may be one of the most hated WWE Superstars, but he doesn’t see it that way. On Impaulsive, the United States Champion insisted that fans actually love him—despite the chorus of boos he receives at every event.

“I feel loved and revered,” Logan said confidently.

WWE commentator Michael Cole immediately shot that down.

“Yeah… no.”

The exchange continued as Logan defended his connection with the WWE Universe, even citing his mom’s opinion. “My mom said the people who boo me are simply wrong,” he added.

Cole, a 28-year WWE veteran, explained why Logan draws so much heat.

“Why do they hate Logan Paul? Because he’s a cocky prick,” Cole said bluntly.

Despite the fan reaction, Logan has proven his toughness inside the ring. He revealed that during his high-profile match against Roman Reigns, he suffered a torn MCL—but still finished the bout.

“I tore my MCL in my third match against Roman, but I had to keep going,” Logan said.

“In WWE, if you’re hurt, you can’t show it unless it’s part of the story. You have to do the opposite of what’s true.”

Cole agreed, pointing out that WWE stars work through injuries in a way that other athletes don’t. “A football player tears his MCL, he’s out of the game. You guys? You keep going.”

Between his undeniable athleticism and natural ability to generate reactions, Logan Paul is proving to be one of WWE’s most compelling figures—whether fans love him or not.

Logan Paul Denies Flirting with WWE Women’s Champion

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Logan Paul has shut down speculation that he was flirting with WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, clarifying the situation on his Impaulsive podcast.

Speaking with guest Michael Cole, Paul explained that the rumors originated from a lighthearted comment by WWE producer Michael Hayes, which was then misinterpreted by her boyfriend, WWE star Ludwig Kaiser.

Logan Paul: “I Don’t Want Any Problems”

Paul, who is married to model Nina Agdal, emphasized that his conversation with Stratton was strictly professional, as he had been offering her advice on improving her in-ring moves, including the moonsault and frog splash. However, Hayes jokingly suggested Paul was flirting, leading Kaiser to believe Paul was making advances toward Stratton.

The misunderstanding escalated backstage, where Kaiser allegedly confronted Paul with a chair.

“This is the dumbest narrative. I don’t even want to feed into it,” Paul stated.

“I’m not here to cause drama. I don’t want any problems. I’m here to win.”

As one of WWE’s most skilled self-promoters, Paul has built a reputation for finding ways to stay in the spotlight. Some may view this latest situation as another example of his ability to insert himself into conversations surrounding WWE’s rising stars, including Stratton, whose popularity has surged in recent months.

Paul is set to compete in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match alongside John Cena, CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, Damian Priest, and Seth Rollins. The winner will earn a shot at Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41.

Logan Paul Roasts CM Punk Ahead of Elimination Chamber

From Diva To The DA’s Office: WWE’s Debra Shares Surprising Journey

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Former WWE manager Debra may have spent years helping heels but now her life is dedicated to putting the bad guys of real-life behind bars. Appearing at Monopoly Events’ For The Love of Wresting, Debra shared the unlikely path her life took after leaving wrestling.

“I ended up going to University of Alabama and I received a Bachelor [degree] and then I received a master of science in criminal justice. [Applause] From the University of Alabama, now I currently work for the District Attorney’s Office in New Orleans Louisiana so it’s been an interesting journey from wrestling to what I do now.”

Though Debra’s days in the wrestling inustry are in the past, the former WWE Women’s Champion had fond memories of her time. When asked by SoCal Val, Debra recalled being ‘Queen Deborah’ in WCW and working with Mick Foley as highlights of her career.

Debra also talked about the ‘puppies,’ the of-the-time description of her breasts that was brought up regularly on TV. While WWE’s stance of the sexualization of women has changed over the past decade or so, Debra simply chalked up her work with the puppies as “it was the Attitude Era.”

Today, the puppies are no longer a factor in Debra’s working life, but the legacy she built with fans continues to last to this day. Any would-be ne’erdowells should be wary of breaking the law in New Orleans, or find themselves face-to-face with the former WWE Women’s Champion.

Ricky Saints Reveals Backstage Issues That Pushed Him Out of AEW

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Ricky Saints, the Absolute superstar formerly known as Ricky Starks, has opened up about his exit from All Elite Wrestling, a departure that came close to a year after his final match. Appearing on the Busted Open Radio podcast, Starks teased what led to his departure from the All-Elite promotion.

“There are some people who stuck their nose in my creative business that shouldn’t have happened. Veterans.”

Saints stopped short of naming these veterans, but was ready to discuss the matter further with them. The former AEW World Tag Team Champion shared that “if they got a problem with me, they got my number” and dared anyone with an issue to “text me about it.”

The departure of Ricky Saints in early 2025 came after the former World Tag Team Champion hadn’t been used since March 2024. Though Saints had been dealing early into his hiatus, he was cleared to wrestle for much of this break. In November 2024, Saints shared that he had theories behind his absence, but had not been told anything from management.

Saints has since left AEW and wasted no time in joining WWE NXT, where he will compete as Ricky Saints. While the Absolute One is ready to focus on his WWE future, including his upcoming debut match, there’s still bad blood between Saints and these unnamed veterans.

Ricky Saints Opens Up About WWE Name Change, NXT Debut

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On the February 18, edition of WWE NXT, Ricky Starks signed a contract with the silver brand, where it was confirmed that his new name will be Ricky Saints. On Busted Open Radio, Saints addressed the name change, which he said is “as close as you’re going to get to Starks.”

“I like the name. I know a lot of people are going to be… It’s going to take time for them to get used to it.”

The Saints name holds significant meaning to the former AEW World Tag Team Champion, who is from New Orleans and “I want to pay respect that that as well. Saints also reassured fans that, despite the new name, his persona remains unchanged.

“The person doesn’t change. I’m still that guy, so it is what it is.”

Saints debuted in WWE NXT during the February 11, broadcast, though his name was not uttered by the commentators or the wrestler himself. This, alongside WWE avoiding mentioning him by name on social media, led fans to speculate that a change was coming.

Looking ahead, Ricky Saints is set to make his in-ring debut on the upcoming episode of NXT in Cincinnati, Ohio. In his debut match, he will team up with Je’Von Evans to face the duo of Wes Lee and Ethan Page, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in his wrestling career.

Jake Roberts Was Excited To See Bray Wyatt’s WWE Future: “What A Loss”

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The wrestling world tragically lost Windham ‘Bray Wyatt’ Rotunda in August 2023, who died at the young age of 36 years old. Speaking at Monopoly Events’ For The Love of Wrestling convention in the UK, Jake Roberts, who many saw a lot of in the Bray Wyatt character, reflected on Rotunda’s passing.

“What a loss, just an incredible loss. I loved it, I loved everything that he did. I couldn’t wait to see what he was going to do next. God man, that one hurt. That one hurts.”

Roberts’ comments echo the feelings of many in the wrestling world. After Rotunda’s passing, WWE and promotions Rotunda had never worked for paid tribute to the former World Champion. WWE would also share that proceeds from Bray Wyatt merch would go to support his widow JoJo Offerman and Windham’s four children.

Though Rotunda is no longer with us, the late wrestler’s creative influence remains a significant presence on WWE programming. In 2024, WWE introduced the Wyatt Sicks, a macabre faction led by Uncle Howdy, whose character has clear ties to the three-time World Champion. Uncle Howdy is portrayed by Bo Dallas, with every idea for the group being from the mind of his late brother.

As we approach the two-year anniversary of his passing, the Bray Wyatt character remains in the hearts of fans and Hall of Famers alike. Though fans will never have the chance to see him compete, the legacy left by Windham Rotunda can never be taken away.

Shawn Michaels Has “One Or Two Matches” Left In Him

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Shawn Michaels last competed in the ring in 2018, but the Head of NXT has a couple of matches left in him, according to TNA Wrestling’s JDC. Speaking at Monopoly Events’ For the Love of Wrestling convention in the UK, JDC (formerly Fandango) shared that Michaels told him he has “one or two matches left” in him.” Though JDC doubts he’ll ever get the chance to face the two-time WWE Hall of Famer, he would love the opportunity.

“He’s the reason why I got into the business. So honestly, it’d probably never happen, but that would be my dream match.”

Michaels’ in-ring career took an extended break in 1998 due to a severe back injury and issues with substance abuses. After healing up and finding his faith, Michaels returned to action in 2002 and would remain an active talent until 2010.

Michaels’ final match came in 2018 when he and Triple H defeated the Brothers of Destruction at that year’s Crown Jewel. Many at the time were disappointed with the bout, not only for the four men under-delivering in the ring, but for Michaels ‘spoiling’ what had been a perfect career sendoff against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26.

The Showstopper was part of the recent WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he showed he can still rile up a crowd and hit Sweet Chin Music (a lesson Kevin Owens’ learned firsthand.) Whether Michaels ever competes again or not, the possibility is out there, according to JDC.

Moose Says Match With Oba Femi Will Come In A Few Weeks

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On the February 18, edition of WWE NXT, TNA’s X-Division Champion Moose made his stunning arrival, confronting NXT Champion Oba Femi. In an NXT Digitial Exclusive, Moose shared his excitement after finally making his presence felt in WWE.

“It’s been awesome. Great, great feeling. It’s been a long time coming, and I’m happy I’m finally here.”

During NXT, Femi and Moose agreed that a match between the two must happen. In the interview, Moose shared that he’s had his eyes on Femi for “a very long time” and doesn’t plan on waiting much longer to face The Ruler.

“In a few weeks, I feel like we will lock horns and we will see who the better man is.”

Before Moose locks horns with Femi, he will put the X-Division Championship on the line during next week’s WWE NXT against Lexis King. Moose won’t be the only notable TNA name on the show, as Matt and Jeff Hardy, the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions, will take on the No Quarter Catch Crew during the February 25, show in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Moose has spent years as one of TNA’s leading names and now fans will get to see what he’s capable of against some of the top stars of WWE NXT. With the partnership between WWE and TNA set to last for years, fans can expect plenty more huge crossover moments like we saw this week.

Oba Femi Teases ‘Invasion’ of TNA After Moose Confrontation

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Could WWE NXT Champion Oba Femi be the next to ‘cross the line’ and show up in TNA Wrestling? Don’t count it out according to the Ruler. After being confronted by TNA X-Division Champion Moose on the February 18, episode of WWE NXT, Femi teased showing up in TNA.

“Moose invaded my territory tonight. I think it’s time I invaded his.”

WWE NXT opened with an angry Femi addressing the attack on him by four masked men after his succesful title defense at NXT Judgment Day. Femi said that the four made a fatal error in that they didn’t finish the job. Though Femi demanded that the four men come out to the ring, he was confronted by Moose instead.

Though a match has been yet to be made between the two champion behemoths, it appears a showdown is inevitable. Fans can look forward to seeing two of the very best on their respective brands locking horns as the WWE-TNA partnership continues to prove to be stronger than ever.

The Hardys and Moose Set for Action Next Week on WWE NXT

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Several champions from TNA Wrestling will compete on next week’s special episode of WWE NXT, live from Cincinnati, Ohio.

TNA X-Division Champion Moose will face Lexis King in singles competition. Moose made a surprise appearance on this week’s broadcast to confront NXT Champion Oba Femi. Later in the show, King approached Moose backstage and challenged him to a match next week.

TNA World Tag Team Champions Matt and Jeff Hardy will defend their titles against the No Quarter Catch Crew. After NQCC issued a challenge to the legendary team, The Hardys responded via social media, accepting the match and confirming their NXT appearance next week.

Adding to the intrigue, Matt and Jeff invited NXT Tag Team Champions Axiom and Nathan Frazer to watch from ringside as they demonstrate why they’re the greatest tag team in space and time.

NXT Preview: February 25, 2025

IMG 8355
  • Ricky Saints and Je’Von Evans vs Wes Lee and Ethan Page
  • Moose vs Lexis King
  • The Hardys vs No Quarter Catch Crew
  • Stephanie Vaquer vs Karmen Petrovic

Ricky Starks Officially Rebrands as “Ricky Saints” in WWE NXT

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During a pivotal moment on WWE NXT, Ricky Starks officially signed his contract under a new name – Ricky Saints. The new moniker pays homage to his hometown, New Orleans, Louisiana.

The “Absolute” superstar made it clear that he sees himself as the future of the brand, declaring that his arrival marks the beginning of a revolution. As General Manager Ava Raine presided over the signing, Ethan Page interrupted, questioning Starks’ rapid rise and suggesting he was following his own blueprint for success.

Their tense exchange was cut short when Je’Von Evans stormed in, attacking Page and igniting a chaotic brawl.

Once order was restored, Wes Lee confronted Starks, demanding respect and challenging him to a match. Ava Raine made it official for next week, but before the confrontation could escalate further, Starks blindsided Lee with a strike.

Finally, he put pen to paper, and the camera zoomed in to reveal his new identity—Ricky Saints—marking a fresh chapter in his NXT career.

TNA Star Moose Crashes NXT to Challenge Oba Femi

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TNA star Moose made a surprise appearance on Tuesday’s WWE NXT on The CW.

The show opened with NXT Champion Oba Femi coming out to address the crowd at the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

Femi was addressing the mystery attackers who laid him out last week before he was interrupted by theme music we hadn’t heard before on NXT television.

Out came TNA X-Division Champion Moose. The giant athletes stared each other down in a surreal moment presented by WWE’s new talent exchange relationship with TNA.

“I’m the one man you can’t reign over” and “This has to happen. Oba Femi vs Moose,” Moose said.

Femi replied:

“Don’t worry, it will.”

An intense stare-down followed as both men held their titles high. Stay tuned for news on when this blockbuster inter-promotional battle of the giants takes place.

Michael Cole Reveals He’s Missed Only 3 WWE Shows in 28 Years

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Michael Cole’s dedication to WWE is legendary, but on Impaulsive, he revealed just how rare it is for him to miss a show—only three times in 28 years.

“The first was in 2001 when my wife had a kidney transplant,” Cole said. “The second was my son’s wedding, and the third? A family vacation last year—our first real one in decades.”

One of those absences came under extraordinary circumstances. Cole’s wife was originally scheduled for surgery on September 11, 2001.

“We were in the hospital that morning when everything happened,” he recalled. “Obviously, everything shut down, and her procedure got delayed by three weeks.”

Despite his near-perfect attendance record, Cole’s family has never pressured him to step back.

“My wife’s always known me as a guy who travels. She’s been with me through all of it.”

The longtime announcer also credits his marriage’s longevity—30 years and counting—to his frequent travel.

“That’s why we’re still together,” he joked. “When I am home, I’m not trying to start arguments. Those days are too valuable.”

His dedication to WWE remains unwavering.

“I love this business. I signed a new contract, and I’ll be here for a while. I don’t know how to do anything else!”

With nearly three decades under his belt, Michael Cole’s commitment to WWE is unmatched.

Tessa Blanchard Set for In-Ring Return on This Week’s TNA Impact

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Tessa Blanchard will compete on TNA Impact this Thursday, marking her second match since rejoining the promotion.

Last week, TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella informed Blanchard that she must wrestle on the upcoming live episode from Full Sail University or face repercussions. TNA officially confirmed her participation on Tuesday, though her opponent remains undisclosed.

Blanchard’s return match took place at TNA Genesis last month, where she defeated Jordynne Grace in her first bout for the company since March 2020. She also recently wrestled at a VIP Wrestling event in Texas on January 31, losing to Alejandra Quintanilla (aka Alejandra Lion).

In addition to Blanchard’s match, TNA Impact has announced several other bouts for the February 20 show, including Rosemary vs. Lei Ying Lee. The Northern Armory are also set to appear.

Announced Lineup for TNA Impact (February 20):

  • TNA World Champion Joe Hendry – Special concert appearance
  • Tyson Dupont & Tyriek Igwe vs. The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz)
  • No DQ Match: JDC vs. Leon Slater
  • Lei Ying Lee vs. Rosemary
  • Tessa Blanchard in action
  • Segment featuring The Northern Armory

Blanchard’s return continues to generate interest as she looks to reestablish herself in TNA’s competitive Knockouts division.

WWE Ring Boy Lawsuit Update: Summary of Joint Status Report

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Joint Status Report was filed regarding the lawsuit against TKO Group Holdings, WWE, Vince McMahon, and Linda McMahon over allegations of abuse of underage ring boys in the 1980s and 1990s.

The lawsuit is before the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (Baltimore).

Key Updates from the Status Report

Maryland Supreme Court Ruling:

  • The Child Victims Act (2023), which removes time limits for lawsuits filed by survivors of child sexual abuse, has been upheld.
  • This means there is no statute of limitations on civil cases related to child sexual abuse in Maryland.
  • The parties are now waiting for the Court to lift the current stay on the lawsuit.

Agreed Legal Timelines:

Once the lawsuit is active again:

  • Defendants have 45 days to respond or file motions to dismiss.
  • Plaintiffs then have 21 days to reply.
  • If the lawsuit is amended, defendants will have 14 days to respond to the new version.

Case Background:

The lawsuit was filed by five former ring boys who worked for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) as minors in the 1980s and 1990s.

They allege that WWE and the McMahons failed to protect them from abuse by Mel Phillips, a former ring announcer and ring crew supervisor.

For more information, visit Baltimore Sun.

Logan Paul Eyes New Role in WWE to Help Talent Build Their Brands

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Logan Paul has expressed interest in expanding his role in WWE beyond wrestling, proposing to assist talent in developing their personal brands.

Paul, who officially signed with WWE in 2022, has competed in high-profile matches on Raw and SmackDown, winning the United States Championship in 2023. However, with his experience in business and brand-building outside the ring, he now sees an opportunity to contribute in a different capacity.

On the latest episode of Impaulsive, WWE commentator Michael Cole discussed the company’s evolving approach under its new leadership. He highlighted how WWE has shifted from previous restrictions, encouraging wrestlers to grow their own brands with dedicated support from company offices.

“The company was so restrictive for so many years. We had a big controversy over Twitch streams a few years ago. Now, everything’s opened up. Go be a brand,” Cole explained.

“We want you, as a performer, to develop your brand. We have people in place in our offices helping our talent grow their brand.”

Michael Cole on WWE’s PRIME Sponsorship: “Vince Would Have Never Allowed It”

Logan Paul’s Vision

In response, Paul expressed enthusiasm about potentially joining WWE’s branding team, leveraging his entrepreneurial background to assist fellow wrestlers.

“I feel like I should be on that team. I’m definitely going to reach out about that,” he said. “Everyone should be thinking about how to not just build yourself, but how to build businesses. It’s the next level of conversation.

Use the vehicle you’ve been given. I think every talent in WWE should be thinking like that, and it would be cool to be on that team to help build that.”

While Paul remains an active competitor, his interest in WWE’s branding strategy suggests he could take on a dual role within the company, blending his in-ring persona with his expertise in business and marketing.