Charlotte Flair is going to face Ronda Rousey at WrestleMania 38’s night one in the main event. Flair will defend her WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship against the UFC women’s bantamweight champion on April 2.
Rousey has garnered criticism from vocal WWE fans. When Ronda made her WWE debut in 2018 she made a meteoric rise to the top of the women’s division. Rousey was able to get a WrestleMania match within 6 months of her debut. She won the Raw Women’s Championship and it wasn’t even an entire year since she debuted. Fans felt like she took the spotlight away from other well-deserving candidates, like 2018 Royal Rumble winner Asuka. She has since become the target of trolls on social media, and was named the “most abused athlete on Twitter”.
Flair talked about her opponent and upcoming match with Rousey in an interview with SHAK Wrestling for CBS Sports, where she also mentioned the hate Rousey gets from fans. Flair defended her rival, stating that it’s not as easy as the keyboard warriors think to do what Rousey did in such a short time and it warrants respect.
“I didn’t know fans saw her in the wrong way. What percentage of people really say that,” Flair said. “If I listen to what people said about me, oof, I wouldn’t be here today. First of all, I’m facing Ronda next week. Don’t take this as I’m going to bat for her. I’m just saying, you can’t knock someone who did something in one year that takes many years and years and years to learn or to grasp. And she did a pretty damn good job in one year. It’s just easier to be negative.”
Flair also defended Rousey in another interview where she said that Rousey helps bring more attention to WWE and she welcomes such collaborations. “Sometimes people get critical of outside talent coming in, but she wants to be a part of what we’ve done here, that should make you feel good, and she does bring more eyeballs to people who aren’t necessarily familiar with the product, like Total Divas.” said Flair.
Ronda Rousey has opened up to the fact that she started resenting WWE fans for the hate she gets. She candidly expressed how she struggled with the adversarial relationship with her critics.
“Everyone was booing me out of the stadium,” Rousey recalled. “I was just like, man, fuck these people, I can’t wait to go home. When I left WWE, I had been getting booed out of the stadium, like, every day for months. Do I stay true to myself and tell them to go fuck themselves?”
Ronda Rousey and Charlotte Flair would go at it in the ring at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, April 2.
Kevin Owens has shared when he found out that he’ll be working with Stone Cold Steve Austin for Wrestlemania 38 on Apr 2.
Since the Feb. 7 episode of Monday Night Raw, WWE and Owens had begun their tease for a confrontation with Austin. During the show, Owens made it a point to talk about Texas in his promos. Fightful Select reported on Feb. 14 that WWE made a “significant overture” for the WWE Hall of Famer to have a match at Wrestlemania 38. Owens has now confirmed that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon told him about the plans in January.
In an interview with TVA Sports’ Patrick LaPrade, Owens shared how he found out he’d be having a feud with Austin. LaPrade transcribed the following quotes.
“Usually, in November, I start asking questions to try to find ideas and see if they have ideas,” said Owens. He explained, “But this year, I took a different approach. I had just signed my contract, I had my history with Seth Rollins, so I thought to myself that I was in a good position.”
Owens say she was “super happy” when he learned that he’d be working with the one and only Stone Cold Steve Austin at WWE’s biggest show of the year.
“So, I started asking questions in January, and when I spoke to Vince, he was the one who told me that his plan was to bring Austin back for a night and that would be with me. I was super happy. When it’s not 100% announced, things can always change. But one week before the event, I fully realize it, and I can’t wait.”
Will Kevin Owens and Stone Cold Have a Match?
It has remained unclear whether Owens and Austin will have a match at Wrestlemania 38. The company wanted a match, but it’s unclear if Austin agreed to wrestle. WWE has promoted Owen and Austin’s confrontation as a segment on Wrestlemania 38: Night One. However, that could also change the day of the event.
Austin and Owens’s promo also points out that it could just be a fight. The active WWE superstar pointed out on the recent Raw episode that he would harm Austin if he felt he disrespected him. It seems that an actual match between the two may not happen.
If Austin were to have a match on Apr. 2, it would be his first match at Wrestlemania in 19 years. While Owens is excited to be in a program with the “Texas Rattlesnake,” a segment may disappoint wrestling fans. Although Austin’s return in front of a live WWE crowd could make a great Wrestlemania moment.
WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns has shared his thoughts on Triple H walking away from in-ring action.
Back in Sept. 2021, WWE issued a statement revealing that “The Game” suffered a “cardiac event” and was expected to make a full recovery. As it turns out, things are a lot more serious than WWE led the public to believe.
Hunter revealed to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith that he has a defibrillator in his chest and will never wrestle again. He also essentially said that he was on the brink of death.
Roman Reigns On Triple H’s Retirement
During an appearance on The Tonight Show, Roman Reigns said he’s always been fond of Triple H since his days in developmental (h/t 411Mania.com).
“H was very critical in this process to guide me along. Before I met Vince and built a relationship with him, it was Triple H, he was the one down there in developmental, helping guide talent along. He was the one that overlooked it.
“He was huge in guiding me along. I think he recognized [my] potential and he was always good to me. Early on, I was the type that was asking for raises. ‘Can I get some more money?’ ‘Yeah, go ahead.’
“Two months later. ‘Can I get some more money?’ ‘Yup.’ Then there’s a point where they are like, ‘No.’ I was like, ‘Can you ask Triple H?’ The next morning, you get more money. H has hooked me up and always looked over me. Inside and outside the ring, he’s the best.“
Wrestling fans got to witness 30 years of “The Game.” Hunter began his career back in March 1992 and ended it in March 2022.
We are just days out from WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania, and we’ve got our WrestleMania 38 predictions right here.
SEScoops staff members Jaychele Nicole, Andrew Ravens and I got together to discuss our picks for each match on the card.
On the latest episode of our Women’s Wrestling Focus YouTube series, SEScoops correspondents Ella Jay and Samira run down the women’s matches at the event. They also look at potential NXT call-ups and surprises that may be in store.
WrestleMania Saturday Predictions
Here are our WrestleMania 38 predictions for Night 1:
SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. Shinsuke Nakamura & Rick Boogs
Jaychele Nicole: The Usos have been on a hot streak since being paired with Roman Reigns. They are currently the longest reigning SmackDown Tag Team Champions. I don’t really think that Shinsuke Nakamura deserves to be in a better position than where he currently is, however there is no way that this match can be bad. (Prediction: The Usos)
Michael Reichlin: Alexa, show me filler. Nakamura and Boogs get a spot on the big show, and The Usos get another win under their belts. (Prediction: The Usos)
Andrew Ravens: The Usos should win here as it looks like just another match on the card to get these four wrestlers featured. If they wanted to do a title change just for the sake of it, I wouldn’t be shocked, but there’s no real reason to do it. (Prediction: The Usos)
Consensus: The Usos
Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair
Andrew Ravens: This is all Belair here. A redemption story on the biggest stage of them all. She gets her revenge on Lynch for her SummerSlam loss and they work one more match next month. The story writes itself unless WWE just wants to do a swerve for the purpose of a swerve. (Prediction: Bianca Belair)
Jaychele Nicole: I have Bianca here, partially because of the immense amount of love I have for her. Seeing that Becky Lynch was laid out on the go-home show does make me a bit fearful that the WrestleMania match won’t end in Belair’s favor. However, I have to have some hope that WWE will be making it up to Bianca with this win after everything that happened at SummerSlam last year. (Prediction: Bianca Belair)
Michael Reichlin: WWE did Bianca Belair dirty last year at SummerSlam. She won last year’s Rumble, had her crowning achievement at WrestleMania, then got brought down to size at SummerSlam when the ‘real’ star returned and squashed her. WWE is rehabbing Belair and a win over the woman who embarrassed her last summer is essential to that effort. (Prediction: Bianca Belair)
Consensus: Bianca Belair wins the Raw Women’s Championship
Logan Paul and The Miz vs. Rey and Dominik Mysterio
Andrew Ravens: For whatever reason and perhaps I am just missing it, but two heels – Paul and Miz – are the favorites to win this match. I don’t understand why the babyfaces aren’t favored to win. Them going over is the right move and the history of wrestling backs that theory up. Paul will give them publicity and Miz can eat the pinfall. (Prediction: Rey and Dominik Mysterio)
Jaychele Nicole: I am actually very excited to see what Logan Paul can do in the ring. His training video looked pretty good and he is a natural athlete. The development of the story hasn’t been super interesting to me, but I am excited to see what Rey pulls out of his hat. I think there has to be a heel victory every now and then and The Miz with Logan would make sense to me. (Prediction: Logan Paul and The Miz)
Michael Reichlin: I’ve got high expectations for this one. Miz and Mysterio are total pros, and they’ll be able to carry Paul and Dominik to a good match. Say what you want about Logan Paul, but he’s not in the business of embarrassing himself. He’s said that diving off the top rope is a “bucket list” dream of his, and he’s represented himself pretty well on WWE TV in recent months. However, I still think the Mysterios get the feel-good win (Prediction: Rey and Dominik Mysterio).
Consensus: Rey ad Dominik Mysterio
Drew McIntyre vs. Happy Corbin
Andrew Ravens: McIntyre is a massive favorite at -850 and just like the oddsmakers, there is no way that McIntyre loses here. McIntyre has been feuding with Corbin since January. It’s time to move on to something else. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
Michael Reichlin: Drew McIntyre has been cycled out of the main event picture, which is just how it goes sometimes. McIntyre has been dealing with a neck injury, and has acknowledged that the Corbin feud is a step down for him. I think McIntyre gets a decisive win and hopefully moves on to bigger and better things.
Jaychele Nicole: This story has dragged on WAY TOO LONG. This is the match I am least excited for out of the whole two-night show. This match will be decent. This needs to be a win for Drew after the booking decline he has seemingly been on. I hope that this match will lead to a break up of Baron Corbin or Madcap Moss. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
Consensus: Drew McIntyre
Edge vs. AJ Styles
Michael Reichlin: This is the match I’m most looking forward to on the first night of WrestleMania. Two seasoned pros putting it all on the line. You know they both want to steal the show. Expectations will be high, but nobody is more qualified than Styles and Edge. I don’t think there’s an obvious pick, but with Edge in this later stage of his career, I think WWE gives him the W. (Prediction: Edge)
Andrew Ravens: History would say AJ should go over in the match, but it’s a real coin flip. While AJ as the babyface going over would make sense as he would get his revenge, Edge has undergone a complete character makeover so it’s not a shocker if he does win. I’ll side with AJ getting his revenge. (Prediction: AJ Styles)
Jaychele Nicole: This has the extreme possibility to steal the whole weekend. While Edge’s blue heel turn hasn’t been for me, at the end of the day, he is still one of the best of all time. I can’t wait to see the arrangement of spots and match psychology. Both of these guys could use a win, but due to Edge’s recent heel turn, he is my predicted winner. (Prediction: Edge)
Consensus: Edge
SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs Ronda Rousey
Jaychele Nicole: I think this match is Rousey’s because of her comeback story. Although the crowd may not fully view her as a face like WWE may, she is still a star in the division. The build has of this match has not been what I like in my wrestling, I am still interested in the outcome. In all honesty, I wouldn’t be mad if Charlotte won either because I am a bigger fan of hers than most. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Michael Reichlin: Make no mistake about it, WWE sees Ronda Rousey as a bigger star than Charlotte Flair. Charlotte may be the greatest female talent on the WWE roster, but Rousey is the special attraction who will get the company mainstream attention. Plus, I don’t see WWE bringing Rousey back to win the Royal Rumble and fall flat at Mania. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Andrew Ravens: Ronda Rousey should win the match and become the next champion although when it comes to the booking of Flair, anything is on the table especially if they want a shocking finish. I don’t see it happening. Honestly, a long-term storyline could work with them meeting again at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Consensus: Ronda Rousey wins the SmackDown Women’s Title
WrestleMania Sunday Predictions
Here are our WrestleMania 38 predictions for Night 2:
Bobby Lashley vs. Omos
Jaychele Nicole: Honestly, I’m tired of the Omos reign of terror. I think that coming off of a botched title run, which was not his fault, Lashley could use a win. However, if Omos goes over, I hope they use him to make a big star out of someone like a Bron Breakker for example. (Prediction: Bobby Lashley)
Michael Reichlin: I have a feeling that Bobby Lashley is not entirely healthy yet, and WWE is going to keep this match quick by feeding Lashley to Omos. It would be a questionable booking decision, but there’s no chance they’re having Omos take his first loss in a match with less than one week’s build.
Consensus: Split
Sami Zayn vs. Johnny Knoxville (Anything Goes Match)
Andrew Ravens: Expect a lot of smoke and mirrors in this one as that is the only reason why the match was given a gimmick. Knoxville should go over as he is a babyface celebrity and let this feud be gone after this show. (Prediction: Johnny Knoxville)
Jaychele Nicole: This match is literally just going to pop me. The spots will hopefully be unpredictable and fresh. The ‘Anything Goes’ stipulation got me even more interested. I love when storylines and matches are built using social media and this feud/match has captivated that. Sami taking a loss to Knoxville won’t hurt him too much, and I bet the crowd would be cheer for a Knoxville win. (Prediction: Johnny Knoxville)
Michael Reichlin: This will be the most “entertaining” match of WrestleMania Sunday. I give Knoxville a lot of credit for going “all in” on this WWE run. He’s taken it seriously and has been actively building this match against Zayn with shenanigans that have gotten WWE mainstream attention from outlets like TMZ. Zayn, a classic heel, is at his best when he’s being outsmarted and complaining. Expect some involvement with the Jackass crew. (Prediction: Johnny Knoxville)
Consensus: Johnny Knoxville
Women’s Tag Team Champions Zelina Vega & Carmella vs. Sasha Banks & Naomi vs. Rhea Ripley & Liv Morgan vs. Natalya & Shayna Baszler
Andrew Ravens: Banks and Naomi should go over here as they’re the only team that can make these titles mean anything again. Once Banks and Bayley lost the titles as the inaugural champions, the titles went downhill. That could change briefly if Banks and Naomi become the champions. (Prediction: Sasha Banks and Naomi)
Michael Reichlin: One thing is for sure, in my eyes: we’re getting a title change. So, who wins? Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan have spoken about wanting to elevate the women’s tag titles. However, Sasha Bans and Naomi have the star power to truly elevate the underutilized championships. (Prediction: Sasha Banks and Naomi)
Jaychele Nicole: I can’t wait to see Sasha Banks & Naomi’s crowning moment in this match. I would’ve preferred to see Sasha in a singles match, but I am excited to see her partner back up with Naomi again. I am excited to see that a lot of my favorite women make it to the card, but I do have complaints about stuffing them all into one match. (Prediction: Sasha Banks & Naomi)
Consensus: Sasha Banks and Naomi win the Women’s Tag Titles
Raw Tag Team Champions RK-Bro vs. Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy
Michael Reichlin: Orton and Riddle are really good together. They’ve developed a fun dynamic. I think the Street Profits are more ‘due’ for the titles, which would bring them up to that next level in the eyes of fans. (Predictions: Street Profits)
Jaychele Nicole: In my opinion, this is the perfect opportunity to turn RK-Bro. I am really hopeful that they have big plans for the Street Profits. I have always been a fan of them, and their last title run proved they are more than capable of leading the division. This is another match that I feel like could end up being a banger. (Prediction: Street Profits)
Andrew Ravens: WWE recently put the titles on RK-Bro and while I can see how The Street Profits would be good champions if WWE wanted to split Orton and Riddle up, it’s not likely as they could’ve worked together at this show in a singles match if that was the case. The champions should retain. (Prediction: RK-Bro)
Consensus: Street Profits win the Raw Tag Titles
Pat McAfee vs. Austin Theory
Andrew Ravens: Even with the help or no help from Vince McMahon, it doesn’t make sense for McAfee to drop a loss here unless WWE has more plans for him to wrestle. Let the babyface go over and get his win. Plus, this was a big spotlight for Theory, a heel, so he doesn’t lose any momentum. (Prediction: Pat McAfee)
Michael Reichlin: I’m really looking forward to this one, almost entirely because of Pat McAfee. Theory is a fun proxy for Vince McMahon and he’s a very skilled wrestler. He’ll be able to bump around and make Pat McAfee’s offense look like a million bucks. Let’s not forget the classic match McAfee had with Adam Cole in NXT. He’s no slouch himself. There are possible downsides to having an announcer defeat a member of the main roster, but McAfee is a big star and will get his WrestleMania moment to shine. (Prediction: Pat McAfee)
Jaychele Nicole: I am a bigger fan than most of Pat’s in-ring work. I am super excited to see what he pulls out for WrestleMania. Theory is definitely capable of giving Pat a good match like he deserves. As much as I love McAfee, this seems like an opportunity for Austin Theory to get a big win on a big stage. (Prediction: Austin Theory)
Consensus: Pat McAfee
Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. WWE Champion Brock Lesnar (Winner Takes All Championship Unification Match)
Jaychele Nicole: My prediction is not who I want to win. I’m actually rooting for Brock here since I feel like Reigns’ “Tribal Chief” character has gotten stale quickly due to the lack of character progression. Since I believe this will be Roman’s match, I hope that they are saving his eventual defeat for a young star who could be sent to the moon by their victory. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)
Michael Reichlin: This one is for all the marbles. It’s the biggest match that WWE can present, so I’m glad to see the company went with Lesnar vs. Reigns as the WrestleMania main event. Brock Lesnar is the most dominant athlete in WWE history. He’s doing some of the best work of his career, with this latest incarnation of his evolving character. All that said, Lesnar is here to ‘do business’ and give the rub to guys like Roman Reigns. Reigns is “the guy” and the company will never stop hammering that home. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)
Andrew Ravens: Roman Reigns wins here. I know Lesnar lost their previous encounter and while he is the babyface, Reigns is the guy in the company. Just because Lesnar is the babyface here doesn’t mean that he needs to win. Reigns can hold onto the title a bit longer and WWE will need to build up someone else to finally beat him. Reigns goes over clear to further signify him as the top guy. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)
Consensus: Roman Reigns is the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion
There you have it, our WrestleMania 38 predictions. Hit up the comments section and let us know what you think!
AEW’s Max Caster has impressed a lot of people with his mic skills in a short amount of time. With his rapper gimmick, the rising star has drawn obvious comparisons to John Cena, who originally got over with the audience with a similar character.
The Cenation Leader discussed a number of things talking to Forbs. He also offered some big praise to the Acclaimed Member. When asked if he could beat Caster in a rap battle, Cena said “I know of Max Caster very well, and the answer is no,”
The 16-time world champion said that hip hop is something that constantly evolves and moves forward. According to John Cena, Max is the better version of what he did:
“Hip-hop constantly evolves, and it constantly moves forward, and he is the better version of what I did. He’s really, really spectacular. As long as he keeps everything in realistic perspective, he shows great potential.”
The Hollywood star recalled the first time he heard the AEW star. He revealed that he immediately checked out more work of him and realized that he was spectacular.
Cena also claimed that he can’t give the young star any advice “because he’s punching far above my weight class.” John noted how Caster is gifted enough to rhyme to the beat live while he did his stuff a cappella to let the punchlines sink in.
The storyline of Seth Rollins’ mystery opponent has been one of the most hyped stories of WrestleMania this year. Though some recent reports of an old WWE name coming back have thrown a curveball in people’s way. It has made many wonder if Seth’s opponent will not be who people think it is. Rollins himself is promising that people won’t be disappointed, because he is capable of delivering on the promise himself.
The Architect recently appeared on the Sports Illustrated Media podcast. During the interview, he was asked if he believes his mystery opponent will live up to the hype. Replying to it, Rollins promises that it’s definitely going to be a big moment. Reminding people of his WrestleMania history, Seth said he is a moment in himself. He claimed that after Shawn Michaels he is the new Mr WrestleMania:
“I think, yeah, Saturday, Sunday, either way, I think it’s going to be a moment. One thing that I’ve learned on this journey of trying to find my way to WrestleMania is that I am Seth freaking Rollins. I am the moment. You look at WrestleMania over the last nine years, eight years, ten years, that I’ve been a part of it.” said Seth Rollins, “And all I do is make moments. It doesn’t matter who I’m in the ring with or what we’ve got going on. I find a way to make moments and so I am the moment. I am my own Main Event at WrestleMania.
Anybody who’s lucky enough to share the ring with me has a good chance to steal the show. You can run down a laundry list of my past WrestleMania accomplishments; we can do that all day but it’s right there in front of you. Took me a little while to see that but I am WrestleMania. I am the new Mr. WrestleMania. Shawn, he had his time. He’ll always be the original Mr. WrestleMania, but [if] you look at the track record in the last decade. They don’t get no better than me, baby!”
Sami Zayn’s character has gotten more ridiculous at every turn since his heel turn. The Great Liberator has received high praise for his amazing character work in recent times.
Though many have also wondered if we will see him going back to his babyface roots and bringing his NXT gimmick back anytime in future. The former NXT champion explained on The Cheap Heat podcast why he doesn’t want to do that.
Zayn mentioned how people ask him about his old character to this day. He claimed that he takes it as a positive but the guy people want to see doesn’t exist anymore:
“I take this as a positive because they have a lot of fondness towards my good guy days in NXT. There is a kinship there and they felt a connection to that character.
I’ll get messages saying, ‘When are we going to get that guy back?’” said Sami Zayn, “That guy doesn’t exist anymore.”
‘It Wouldn’t Be The Same’
Giving an example, Sami said that even if The Beatles came back today, you wouldn’t recapture the magic from the 60s. According to him it was lightning in the bottle and the Beatles today would be just the group playing songs from the 60s:
“Sometimes, you have to look at things that existed in that time and place and appreciate them for what they were and kind of wish that they wouldn’t come back because if they did come back, it wouldn’t be the same.”
Sami Zayn has not been announced for a match at WrestleMania this year. It’s possible that he will participate in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal on SmackDown.
AEW is known to not pull any punches when it comes to referencing WWE. Many AEW stars regularly take shots at the rival promotion and people like CM Punk are known to try and put the company down whenever they get the chance. However, Seth Rollins finds the constant references very tacky and low-brow.
The Monday Night Messiah discussed the difference between WWE’s and AEW’s approach of acknowledging the competition during his appearance on Sports Illustrated Media Podcast. He discussed his own mention of Jon Moxley during his recent feud with Roman Reigns.
Seth Rollins claimed that nobody said anything about it to him backstage. Everybody knows that Mox is a part of WWE’s history and the story of both Seth and Roman. The Architect then compared the moment to CM Punk’s mentions of WWE. He explained that references are fine when they are useful in a story. He went on to describe how AEW’s approach is very different:
“The other side of that coin is the way that it can be used by those guys. They can do whatever they want. I find it very tacky and low-brow, personally. I think it looks and reeks of desperation. I don’t think it’s anything on our television show that we need to go there and talk down about those guys.”
The former world champion later acknowledged that AEW is successfully doing their thing and said that he is very happy for them. Though he noted how Tony Khan’s promotion has a long way to go before they catch up with them. From Rollins’ perspective, it’s a step down for them to use this fact as an insult.
While the majority of the people in WWE refrain from even acknowledging the success of AEW, Paul Heyman has no problem in putting their rivals over.
The mad scientist of wrestling detailed his mindset during an appearance on Sports Media podcast. He said that he has no problem putting AEW over if the company does something that is worth it because he doesn’t live in a bubble.
Explaining why he doesn’t mind putting AEW over, Heyman mentioned how WWE has sold more tickets for this year’s WrestleMania than any previous year. According to him, he is not concerned about AEW until they can match this market dominance:
“They can’t match what we’re about to do next week.” said Paul Heyman, “Until they are in a position to match what we do next weekend, I’m not that concerned with praising the competition because they are still a long way away from what we do and our level of success, and our market dominance.”
The advocate also admitted that he watches AEW. He said that he would watch anything out there in the industry if he can get his hands on it.
Heyman said that he would even watch Antarctica All-Star Wrestling if there is such a thing. This awareness of the wrestling world is what allows him to keep up with up-and-coming stars such as Gable Steveson.
Michael Cole usually gets heat from fans for not focusing on the action inside the ring while calling the matches. Turns out, the longtime WWE announcer is aware of this criticism but he doesn’t have any problem with it, because he considers himself to be a ‘sports entertainment announcer.’
The veteran commentator explained his point of view during his most recent appearance on The Press Box podcast. He explained that WWE is not a wrestling company. It is mainly an entertainment company and so the style that he utilises is sports entertainment announcing:
“We’re not a wrestling company. WWE is an entertainment company. So the style that I utilize and the style that many people that work for me here in WWE utilize, is what I like to call sports entertainment announcing. A lot of people laugh at me about that. They’ll make jokes about it. But what we do here is much different than what they may do in other companies.”
Michael Cole gave the example of a 70s TV show called Taxi. He explained that people liked the show because they could connect with the characters in it, not because they were cab drivers in a garage. The same thing is true for WWE, where the wrestling ring is used as a focal point to resolve the conflicts. Though their main focus is on the stories and getting people interested in the characters:
“We just happen to use a wrestling ring as our focal point of where our conflicts are resolved. But in order for our business to be successful, you have to become emotionally invested in the characters and what we are selling. The majority of the people that watch our product, they enjoy wrestling of course, but they also get really into the soap opera style of what we do.”
Cole mentioned how there are other companies that strictly do wrestling. He explained that you are going to call a wrestling match differently than you are going to call a sport entertainment match. In WWE, they focus more on stories. According to him, the WWE commentators are storytellers, more than being the play-by-play guys.
AEW Dynamite aired live from the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. The Owen Hart Tournament qualifiers began tonight with The Bunny facing a mystery opponent. CM Punk, Jon Moxley, and Bryan Danielson were in action tonight as well. Andrade El Idolo faced Darby Allin in this week’s main event.
Dynamite Results
CM Punk def. Max Caster
Jon Moxley def. Jay Lethal
FTR def. Gunn Club
Bryan Danielson def. Wheeler Yuta via submission
Toni Storm def. The Bunny to qualify for the women’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament
Andrade def. Darby Allin
Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:
CM Punk Is Going After The AEW Championship
CM Punk squared off against Max Caster in the first match of the night. Caster made a Will Smith during his rap to the ring. Punk got Caster to the canvas and went to work on his injured arm to start off the action. Punk went for a Crossbody but Caster countered into a Double Knees.
Caster followed it up with Double Knees and then a Fisherman’s Suplex for a two count. Max distracted the official and Bowens tripped up Punk. Caster went for the Mic Drop but Punk dodged it and planted Max with a Tombstone Piledriver. Punk then applied the Anaconda Vice for the submission victory.
CM Punk was interviewed after the match and Tony Schiavone asked him about making the title belt pose after his victory over Dax Harwod last week. Punk said he doesn’t care if the champion is Adam Cole or Hangman Page, because when his time in AEW is done, he will have more gray in his beard, more scars, and be AEW Champion.
Jon Moxley battled Jay Lethal on tonight’s Dynamite. Jay wanted to shake Jon’s hand before the match but Mox smacked it away. Moxley dominated early and sent Jay Lethal out of the ring. Moxley connected with a German Suplex but Lethal battled back. Jay sent Moxley to the outside and connected with a Suicide Dive.
Back in the ring, Lethal ducked under a Clothesline and hit Lethal Combination on Moxley for a two count. Jay went for Lethal Injection but Moxley was able to counter into a submission hold. Lethal escaped and planted Moxley with a Brainbuster for another near fall. Jay went for the Figure Four but Moxley escaped and hit the Paradigm Shift for the pinfall victory. Moxley and Lethal then shook hands after the match.
FTR faced Gunn Clubb tonight and Billy Gunn was ringside for the match. MJF joined commentary after saying The Pinnacle is going to start picking up some wins in a conversation with FTR earlier on the show.
Dax and Colten Gunn began the match and Gunn Club took control and isolated Cash Wheeler in the ring. Cash connected with a Back Body Drop and started making his way to the corner but Colten prevented the tag.
Austin Gunn got the tag but Dax was able to tag in at the same time. Harwood hit a big Clothesline for a near fall as Wardlow was shown arriving at the venue. Wardlow beat the hell out of security and started heading to the ring. However, the numbers game caught up to him and there was too much security and he couldn’t get down to the ringside area. FTR took control and hit the Big Rig for the pinfall victory. FTR and MJF argued after the match as Harwood & Wheeler are still friends with Wardlow.
Jericho Appreciation Society cut a promo tonight and Chris claimed that he is the revolutionary force in sports entertainment and everyone has been talking about him for the past few weeks. Jericho added that a lot of people wanted to be a part of the group but he selected these five and everyone else can “GFY”.
Eddie Kingston, Santana, and Ortiz showed up and Eddie had a madball. A brawl broke out and Kingston hit Backfist to the Future. Daniel Garcia got booted in the face from Ortiz as Jake Hager planted Kingston with a Spinebuster. JAS got Kingston in the Sharpshooter and Jericho whipped Eddie with his belt to end the segment.
Bryan Danielson faced Wheeler YUTA in a singles match tonight. The action started off back and forth with neither wrestler getting an advantage. Danielson went for a series of submission holds but Wheeler kept escaping and eventually leveled Bryan with a Dropkick.
When Dynamite returned from a commercial, Danielson got Wheeler in Cattle Mutiliation but YUTA battled back with elbows to the face. Danielson hit the Running Knee and got Wheeler in the LeBell Lock for the submission victory.
Hangman Page & Jurassic Express Interrupted the Undisputed Elite, FTR Wants Another Match Against The Young Bucks
Adam Cole came to the ring with the AEW Championship he stole and reDragon had Jurassic Express’ AEW titles. “The Undisputed Elite” had their names on the titles written on pieces of tape they stuck there. Cole said that the actual champions are not invited to the party because the new era of AEW needs to take control. ReDragon added that they are three of the baddest men in the company and Cole suggested they celebrate all week.
Hangman Page arrived in a Tesla with horns on it and rushed the ring. Hangman brawled with the trio until Jurassic Express and Christian Cage showed up. Hangman set up for the Buckshot Lariat but Cole and reDragon retreated.
Tony Schiavone interviewed AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa backstage. Rosa said she’s the first Mexican born women’s world champ and she clawed her way to the top of the division. Rosa added that every time she gets to the top, bullies want to take her down. The champ stated that “pillars” get knocked down but foundations stay standing and she will be a foundation of this company. Thunder said that Nyla can keep talking but she wants to fight. Rosa said that she wants to wrestle the best in the world and defend the title everywhere.
FTR cut a backstage promo as well and said that the Ass Boys (Gunn Club) said that they take things too seriously and admitted that might be true. FTR vowed to win the ROH Tag Team Championships on Friday and get the AEW tag titles back soon. FTR then challenged the Young Bucks again to determine who is the best team.
#FTR (@CashWheelerFTR/ @DaxFTR) has an agenda: to win the #ROH World Tag Team Championship & to defeat the @youngbucks proving they are the best Tag Team in the world.
Toni Storm Debuted & Qualified For The Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament
The Bunny faced the debuting Toni Storm in an Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament Qualifying match. Bunny got in some offense early but Toni quickly battled back. Storm hit a Clothesline as Dynamite went to a break.
When Dynamite returned, The Bunny went for a Hip Attack but Toni blocked it. Toni hit a German Suplex and followed it up with Strong Zero for the pinfall victory. Toni Storm has qualified for the women’s Owen Hart Foundation tournament.
Andrade El Idolo battled Darby Allin in this week’s main event. Andrade hit a running knee early and went for the cover but Allin kicked out. Andrade continued to control the action as Dynamite went to a final commercial break of the night.
When Dynamite returned, Andrade went for a Razor’s Edge but Allin escaped. Andrade took control again and went to take off his belt and use it as a weapon but the referee caught him. Darby capitalized with a Cutter for a near fall.
Both men battled to the top rope and Andrade lifted Darby up but he escaped again. Allin hit a Crucifix Driver and then transitioned into an Armbar. Jose was about to help Andrade but Sting took him out. Butcher and Blade made their way down the ramp and walked right into one of Darby’s patented dives. Back in the ring, Andrade quickly capitalized on the distraction and hit the Hammerlock DDT for the pinfall victory.
After the match, AFO attacked Sting but The Hardy’s made the save. Matt hit the Twist of Face and Jeff connected with the Swanton Bomb on Marq Quen to close the show.
Toni Storm has officially signed with All Elite Wrestling. The former NXT UK Women’s Champion made her debut on Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite as AEW President Tony Khan’s latest mystery signing.
She beat The Bunny in the Women’s Owen Hart Foundation tournament qualifying match with her finisher.
Shortly after her match on Dynamite, AEW welcomed her to the team with the official graphic, Toni Storm is #AllElite.
Storm signed with WWE in 2018 after working the 2017 edition of the Mae Young Classic. She was used mainly on the NXT UK brand. She won the 2018 Mae Young Classic and later became the NXT UK Women’s Champion.
In 2020, Storm was used on the NXT brand before going to the main roster this past July on an episode of SmackDown.
Storm had been working WWE house shows including at a live event in which she was part of a triple threat match with Sasha Banks and SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair just days before she asked for her WWE release. It was granted and she had been waiting out her 90-day non-compete clause.
Since being on the free agent market, she opened an OnlyFans account. Toni Storm’s OnlyFans account has been very lucrative for her already.
In a recent interview, John Morrison commented on how “hellbent” WWE is on protecting officials.
Due to Morrison being a heel for a majority of his second run, he had many moments where he took advantage of the referee. Much of his time in the company was spent cheating behind the officials’ backs to gain heat.
John Morrison On WWE Officials
Morrison recently did an interview with The Comedy Store, and he spoke about WWE referees being a bit too strict in the ring.
The six-time WWE Tag Team Champion said, “Here’s one problem I have with WWE; this is the only thing I’ll say about them, they are really hellbent on protecting the officials. If you have five seconds to tag and you don’t get out, disqualification. Ten seconds out of the ring, disqualification. When has anyone bought a ticket to go watch a referee? The ref is extremely important, but the ref’s role should be to facilitate the storytelling. Some of those refs, there are a couple in AEW that work hard cam better than the wrestlers.
That’s enough about refs. You get the idea. If they don’t have any sort of control or power, then they are meaningless. You shouldn’t just bury the ref and do a bunch of crap that takes away all their power, but at the same time, you have to be able to cheat. It’s a show, people are going to see a show. You can do a lot more with leeway than you can with a strict ref.”
Morrison’s Next Moves After WWE Release
Morrison was released by WWE in November 2021.
Morrison is scheduled to be a part of multiple matches during WrestleMania weekend. He is booked for shows that are a part of WrestleCon and shows under GCW: The Collective. At the WrestleCon SuperShow, he is scheduled to face his wife Taya Valkyrie in a Dirty Dishes Match.
H/T to Jeremy Lambert of Fightful for the transcription
The Miz and Maryse have finished filming Season 3 of their show Miz and Mrs.
The Miz Announces That Season 3 Has Wrapped
On Twitter, The Miz revealed that the show has wrapped on the filming of their third season. The former WWE Champion posted a photo of him posing with his wife Maryse while they held a cake that said ‘That’s a wrap, Congrats on Season 3’. In the same tweet, The Miz practically confirmed the season’s release date by saying ‘See ya in June’.
Just two days ago, Maryse posted that the third season of the USA Network show was almost completed. She also mentioned that it was going to be hilarious and show lots of love.
Season 3 of @MizAndMrs almost completed!!! This season is not only hilarious but has a lot of ?? Stay tune its coming soon!!!! #MizAndMrs @ Los Angeles, California https://t.co/f95UoM708O
Monday’s WrestleMania go-home edition of WWE Monday Night RAW saw Bianca Belair take a pair of scissors to Becky Lynch’s trademark red hair.
That’s right, Belair went full-on Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake and clipped off some of the Irish Lass’s hair. Since that point, not much has been seen from the RAW Women’s Champion.
That changed on Wednesday. Lynch posted a pair of pictures to her Twitter account with the caption, “Jokes on you @BiancaBelairWWE. I look cool af. #WrestleMania.”
Lynch and Belair will go toe-to-toe during night one of WWE WrestleMania 38 this Saturday night. Current reports indicate that their match will open the show, though that is obviously subject to change until the event itself starts.
Who do you think will walk out of WrestleMania 38 with the RAW Women’s Championship belt? Let us know in the comments section below!
Be sure to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news. This week’s show features a full preview and predictions for WrestleMania 38: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.
It was revealed back in December that Kevin Owens had re-signed with WWE, a move that surprised some at the time.
After winning the WWE Universal Championship and feuding with John Cena early in his WWE career, Owens slid down the card and hadn’t received the same kind of push since. He seemed like a prime candidate for a change of scenery and a move to AEW.
Then he re-signed with WWE for a lot of money, and now Owens finds himself in a WrestleMania program with none other than Stone Cold Steve Austin. It’s hard to fault him for his decision.
In an interview with ESPN, Owens explained how, ultimately, it was Vince McMahon who convinced him to stay with WWE.
“A big part of it, honestly, was that Vince McMahon made it pretty clear to me that he wanted me to stay,” Owens said. “And, you know, I’ve been in WWE for seven years at this point. You know, I have a lot of friends everywhere else in wrestling, but there is a whole side of WWE that people don’t get to see, whether it’s the production crew, you know, the camera people, the stage manager, the creative team, all these people.
“They’re all very special people and you know, they’re a part of my family. My extended family now. My professional family, if you want to call it that. So that, those were all factors that, that, that led to me, you know, staying put, because Vince made it clear he wanted me to stay. It feels like my home and all those other people there that, you know, if I wasn’t there, I wouldn’t get to see anymore and that was just like, you know, it just seemed like the right move. That’s really all there is to it.”
“Vince made it clear he wanted me to stay.”
Kevin Owens
Despite some comments made by Ronda Rousey during an appearance on Ellen on Tuesday, reports continue to indicate that Kevin Owens and Steve Austin will main event night one of WrestleMania 38 this weekend.
Be sure to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news. This week’s show features a full preview and predictions for WrestleMania 38: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.
Bandido isn’t opposed to being a part of Tony Khan’s vision for ROH.
Khan shook up the wrestling industry by announcing he is now the owner of Ring of Honor. The AEW head honcho plans to take over the booking reins of ROH. SEScoops was the first to report that all ROH employees would be let go.
As for the talent, they were also released from their contracts months before Khan’s purchase. ROH did this to undergo a “reconceptualization” period.
Bandido Wants In On Tony Khan’s ROH
Speaking to the folks at Más Lucha, Bandido said that he’d jump at the chance to compete for ROH long term with Tony Khan at the helm (h/t Fightful).
“It’s incredible but it did take me by surprise, admittedly. They always say that change is for the better, so I’m interested to see what is next in this new phase (of Ring of Honor). If I continue, and I would love to continue, I will be thrilled to be there. If not, then I look forward to closing that chapter the best possible manner.
“They haven’t reached out to me. We (Bandido & Khan) have not spoken since the 2019 Battle of Los Angeles Tournament, unfortunately.”
PWInsider reported that Bandido’s future in the United States is up in the air due to his visa. If he can’t score a deal with Khan or another big promotion before his visa expires, it’s been said that he’ll wrestle in Mexico in the short term.
Bandido is set for a title unification match against Jonathan Gresham. Both men lay claim to being called the ROH World Champion but there can only be one. The two will settle things at Supercard of Honor on April 1.
Plans for “The United States of America vs. Vince McMahon” series are now in full swing.
The Hollywood Reporter brought word that the series will be written by Noah Harpster and Micah Fitzerman-Blue. WWE is working with Blumhouse Television for the project.
Statements On Vince McMahon Series Finding Showrunners
Blumhouse TV president Chris McCumber issued the following statement:
“Blumhouse is thrilled to be partnering with Noah and Micah on this project. Their ability to bring iconic characters to life in a nuanced, dramatic, and fully realized way is the reason they are the perfect fit to tell the story of The United States of America vs. Vince McMahon.”
Harpster and Firzerman-Blue also chimed in, heaping praise on the WWE Chairman.
“Vince McMahon is a living legend. We are thrilled to tell his larger-than-life story with our partners at Blumhouse and WWE.”
The series is set in the 1990s and will focus on the infamous federal court case against Vince McMahon back in 1994. The case was brought about on suspicion that Vince was supplying illegal anabolic steroids to talent. McMahon was found not guilty.
At this time, the series doesn’t have an outlet. “The United States of America vs. Vince McMahon” was announced back in the summer of 2021.
Matt Hardy has looked back at the time Michael Hayes pitched a cinematic match long before they were cool.
When Matt made the transition to his “Broken” character, it took on a life of its own. Matt made it cool to do cinematic-style matches. What’s interesting is, he was close to having a cinematic match long before he started the “Broken” gimmick.
Cinematic Match Pitched
During a recent edition of The Extreme Life Of Matt Hardy, Matt reflected on the time Michael Hayes pitched a cinematic match between The Hardy Boyz and Edge and Christian (via Fightful).
“Michael was a very out-of-the-box thinker. He was trying to think of things that would be different and original and unique and he did pitch something that was very similar to that. I wonder how that would have turned out if we’d had done it at that stage in our career.
“Because we’re very different performers. We were definitely thinking more about work rate than the actual work of telling a story and being character performers, so I don’t know.
“It would have been an interesting scenario because Vince, he takes these things so seriously, and that’s why I took a different approach to The Final Deletion.
“I didn’t want this thing to be looked at as too serious because at the end of the day, wrestling, it’s these people that are amazing athletes, they get in a ring and go have a 15 or 20-minute match, especially with all these unique spots and whatnot. But still, it’s entertainment at the end of the day, and we can’t lose track of that.”
Matt and Jeff are currently on the AEW roster along with Christian. Edge works for the WWE banner after he had been retired for years due to an injury. Hayes remains behind the scenes in WWE.
Anthony Bowens will be missing some time due to an injury.
AEW President Tony Khan broke the news during an appearance on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio (h/t 411Mania):
“I really like Anthony a great deal. He’s been injured. We don’t think it’s anything too long-term, but the truth is, he was supposed to be back by now and that’s jammed me up the last couple weeks in planning. He’s been out almost a month and they originally thought it was going to be two weeks. It’s been a few weeks I’ve been looking forward to bringing him back. He’s recovering from what is hopefully a short-term knee injury.“
Bowens is still advertised to be in Max Caster’s corner for the March 30 episode of AEW Dynamite.
2 of the top orators in pro wrestling today will go one-on-one in the ring when @CMPunk battles @PlatinumMax on Dynamite TONIGHT! What will Caster say in his entrance rap? Can Punk shut Max’s big mouth?
Bowens is one-half of The Acclaimed along with Caster. He was last seen in action teaming with Caster to challenge Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus for the AEW World Tag Team Championships on March 9.
Sasha Banks is one of the most influential women’s wrestlers of recent times. She has become an inspiration to many by rising to this level despite all her struggles. Though this journey has not been easy.
The Boss has gone through many ups and downs in her WWE career. One such low point of her career was the WrestleMania season in 2019, when the former champion even tried to quit WWE.
Banks detailed her mindset during the time in an interview with The Athletic. She and Bayley had just become the inaugural women’s tag team champions. Sasha revealed that she had separated her shoulder in a match against Ronda Rousey in January but she didn’t tell this to anyone:
“I had a Make-A-Wish the next day, and I couldn’t move, couldn’t put my clothes on, couldn’t do my hair, Bayley had to come into my room and do that. I didn’t want to tell anybody. Those titles meant so much to me.”
Sasha Banks wanted to make the title reign something special to put the championship on the map. That’s why it was a real blow to her when they had to drop the belts to The IIconics at WrestleMania 35, less than two months into their reign:
“I felt so sad every day, and I didn’t know why, I had to take myself away from a situation and such a fast world where I had to stop and realize who Mercedes was and who Sasha Banks was. I had no time off. I never got to see myself, my family. I took that time to figure out what I loved besides wrestling.”
Thankfully, Vince McMahon declined Sasha’s request for a release. The chairman offered her some time off instead. The Boss returned to the WWE programming after rediscovering her passion four months later.
Pat McAfee has heaped major praise on Michael Cole.
McAfee serves as the color commentator of WWE’s SmackDown brand. The former NFL punter has been lauded for his work on WWE TV. It’s led to him receiving a match against Austin Theory on night two (April 3) of WrestleMania 38.
Pat McAfee Has Kind Words For Michael Cole
During an appearance on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Pat McAfee responded to the notion that he’s seemingly picked up on wrestling commentary in no time.
McAfee said it’s a combination of preparation and the help of an experienced veteran such as Michael Cole.
“There’s been others that have done it in a different fashion and better than me in my eyes but I kinda do my own thing, and I feel like I have slotted my own role as commentator there in the history of the business, which is not easy to do cause there’s so many greats.
“Everybody’s trying to be somebody else it feels like but you gotta remember Cole was the one who called me and gave me the kickoff panel opportunity for NXT like four years ago.
“So, Cole and I have known each other for four years at this point. People say, ‘Hey, you’re a natural,’ which I appreciate. I’ve been watching wrestling, listening to the commentators for like 25 years now at this point.
“So, I don’t wanna say that I was just able to drop in and do it. I feel like I’ve been preparing for a lot of these things for a long time.”
McAfee went on to say that Cole simply knows his stuff at the commentary table.
“Michael Cole is the GOAT, by the way. He could do that show with anybody. He could do that show with a bag if he had to, and he proved that after I got escorted out after beating the hell out of Austin Theory. He was able to call his own match.
“He’s coming up on 25 years doing that job, he’s only missed two shows. You’re talking about one of the most experienced, one of the best workers, and a man who is an actual journalist who has the professionalism to go through some bullshit.
“There’s some bullshit segments that he has to lay out and do and it’s just part of the job.”
Please H/T SEScoops if you use any quotes from this article
On Friday, April 1, 2022, in Dallas, Texas, the first show of Tony Khan’s era of Ring of Honor will begin with Supercard of Honor. It’s an important night as the event celebrates ROH’s incredible 20-year legacy while also providing an early indication of what the company will look like under the guidance of All Elite Wrestling’s CEO.
With the card promising championship bouts, long-awaited dream matches, and potential Khan surprises, Supercard has already become one of the most anticipated events of WrestleMania Weekend.
Perhaps more intriguing than the card itself, however, is what this show could set up for the future of the ROH brand. Who will be sticking around? Who will be coming in? Who will be leaving as champions? Answers to some of those questions could become more apparent on April 1.
And so, with that in mind, I want to outline my thoughts on the people I believe should be involved in this new age of ROH. These are the talent and personnel I think could help establish Khan’s era of ROH as a must-see company.
William Regal
(AEW)
AEW’s most recent signing, William Regal, is an industry veteran both on-screen and behind-the-scenes. His wealth of knowledge and experience in helping run a development system is invaluable. If Khan needs a right-hand man to guide the ship, he can’t get much better than Blackpool’s favorite son. And if ROH needs an on-screen authority figure, Regal can easily slip into that role, having perfected it for years in NXT and before that as Commissioner of Monday Night Raw.
Jonathan Gresham
The current ROH World Champion (or, at least, one of them), Jonathan Gresham, has been a key player in ROH’s recent years. He is a highly talented and skilled mat technician who represents the “pure style” of wrestling ROH is best known for. There are countless classic encounters just waiting to happen between Gresham and the wrestlers already signed to AEW, let alone the array of independent talent on the market.
Maria Kanellis
ROH’s women’s division has been stop-and-start throughout its existence but saw a marked improvement over the past year. This was thanks largely to Maria Kanellis, who took the reins of the division alongside ROH ring announcer Bobby Cruise, putting a renewed focus on the women, bringing in new talent, and spearheading an impressive 16 woman tournament.
If Khan is open to delegating responsibilities, then Kanellis’ passion and dedication to women’s wrestling could be hugely beneficial in building a robust and competitive women’s division.
Samoa Joe
(WWE)
I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate ROH’s legacy than Samoa Joe returning to the place where he first rose to prominence. A soon-to-be ROH Hall of Famer, Joe not only brings a previous connection to the company but the invaluable experience and name value. He is the ideal candidate to bridge the gap between the old and new eras, whether he is wrestling on-screen, training the newcomers, or even providing commentary.
Trish Adora
While Kanellis could help behind the scenes, you need a woman to anchor the division on-screen, and Trish Adora is a perfect choice. Having signed with ROH last year, Adora was already establishing herself as one to watch, making it to the semi-finals of the ROH Women’s World Title Tournament.
Adora has the in-ring acumen combined with a killer look and infectious personality that just screams star. She is someone that could easily carry a division as a fighting champion.
Jay Lethal
While it might seem a strange journey for Jay Lethal to go from ROH to AEW back to ROH, the move has massive benefits. Lethal is another one of those names that is synonymous with the ROH brand. He has the history, experience, and name recognition to add real value to a company finding its feet under new ownership. Plus, one could argue that the men’s roster in AEW is teetering on overcrowding, so Lethal might have more opportunity to ply his craft in ROH.
Bandido
The other current ROH World Champion, Bandido, brings something different to the table as a high-flying luchador. He’s a highly proficient pro-wrestler with an eye-catching look and a jaw-dropping move-set. At only 26-years-old and already this talented, he is someone who could be a main attraction for the next decade-plus.
Miyu Yamashita
Adding some international flair to the company, this 27-year-old prodigy is a hard-hitting striker with almost nine years of experience under her belt. A former Tokyo Princess of Princess Champion, Miyu Yamashita, could easily become a must-see attraction of the new ROH.
After AEW recently announced a partnership with Japan’s Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling, Yamashita is ready and available, especially having just dropped her title.
Ian Riccaboni & Caprice Colema (and.. Veda Scott?)
While I’m sure there is a temptation to stamp a different personality on ROH by bringing in a new commentary team, the duo of Ian Riccaboni and Caprice Coleman just works so well. It’s not just that they’re the familiar voices of ROH; they are great pro-wrestling announcers full-stop, being able to call the action in the ring while showing off personality. If Khan wants to spice it up a little, adding Veda Scott to the booth could be a nice idea. Scott has her own history with ROH plus has experience commentating, both in AEW and on the indie scene.
Session Moth Martina
The pandemic curtailed the rise of Session Moth Martina in ROH, leaving her locked down in the United Kingdom. However, she has recently returned to the United States and even appeared on AEW Dark, which means she is at the very least on Khan’s radar. Martina has over 10 years of experience, building her reputation in promotions like Progress and ICW before touring Japan with Stardom. With her fun and vibrant personality, there is no doubt that Martina would quickly become an ROH fan-favorite.
The Kings of Wrestling
While I believe that Claudio Castagnoli (the former Cesaro) has the potential to be a main event singles star in AEW, a brief reunion with his former tag team partner Chris Hero could do wonders in establishing the new ROH tag division.
With the possibility of Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler becoming new ROH Tag Team Champions next Friday, just imagine the potential matches between FTR and the KOR? They are a veteran team that could anchor the division while helping build up younger teams such as Top Flight and The Acclaimed.
Marina Shafir
Former mixed martial artist Marina Shafir has recently been racking up wins on AEW Dark and seems primed for a breakout year. Since her release from NXT, she has rapidly improved in the ring, bringing a technical authenticity to the squared circle that would be perfectly served in ROH.
With her ice-cold blue eyes and stoic expression, Shafir has the aura of a merciless killer when she steps between the ropes. She’s another woman who a division could be built around.
John Cena is one of the most recognizable wrestling faces of all time. One of the biggest factor’s in his rise to this popularity has been the emergence of the meme culture and their love for the Cenation Leader.
The 16-time world champion recently spoke to GQ. He discussed how he wore the Peacemaker costume everywhere he went for the promotion of Suicide Squad so that people can get familiar with the character.
Cena revealed that it’s something he learned during his time in WWE. The former champion explained that the greatest wrestling characters with the most long-term success are the ones that remain the same:
“We just dropped a show on Peacock called Evil, which profiles eight of the top WWE quote-unquote “heels” — and a constant thread in all of that is dedication to character. And the reason, like, there’s the perception of John Cena, “Oh, he never changes” — yeah, I don’t. Because it’s the concept of uniformity.”
John Cena mentioned how he wore the same jean shorts and t-shirt everywhere during his time in WWE. It made people feel like they knew him. He also discussed the meme culture’s love for him:
“I was so dedicated to it that meme culture ran with it, in multiple different varieties: the invisible John Cena meme, the unexpected John Cena meme. And a lot of that is based on being so familiar with the look.”
Apart from this, the Hollywood star talked about The Undertaker. He explained how the Dead Man was backstage and revealed that he has changed in recent years.
The Undertaker had a lot of influence on John Cena’s career. From the famous handshake segment that told people he was someone to keep an eye on, to the multiple matches they had, The Dead Man helped Cena become the wrestler he is today in a big way.
The Cenation Leader had a Q&A with GQ. He discussed things such as donning the Peacemaker costume everywhere for the promotion of Suicide Squad and more.
Speaking about the last Outlaw, Cena revealed what he is like backstage. He claimed that there wasn’t much difference between Taker’s on screen and off-screen character, up until a couple of years ago:
“Mark backstage is very much like The Undertaker — like, that’s how dedicated he is. He’s very stoic, and very calculated, and does speak softly and carry a big stick, until like now.
Two years ago, he started relaxing, letting loose, and having fun.” said John Cena, “But that role consumed him. And that’s what led to his long-term success.”
The 16-time world champion continued by saying that he has great respect for The Undertaker’s ability to be the same person on and off-screen.
He explained that Taker knew he wouldn’t have the same opportunities to live in a sense of normalcy but he believed that he was going to have the opportunities that normalcy doesn’t provide.
