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.
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 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.
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.”
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.
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.”
"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.
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
Ricky Saints and Je’Von Evans vs Wes Lee and Ethan Page
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 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’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 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.
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.
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.”
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.
Logan Paul didn’t hold back in a recent conversation with Michael Cole on his Impaulsive podcast, taking shots at CM Punk and continuing to make his case that he was using “Yeet” long before Jey Uso popularized it in WWE cannon.
Reflecting on his time in the ring with some of WWE’s biggest stars – including John Cena, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Jey Uso – Paul exuded his signature over-the-top confidence.
WWE Elimination Chamber 2025
While many might have felt out of place in such legendary company, The Maverick insists that wasn’t the case. When asked if he questioned his own place in the match, he scoffed at the idea and threw in a dig at CM Punk.
“Not at all, not at all,” Paul said. “I honestly was like, how the hell is CM Punk still here?”
The jab at Punk is especially notable given the former WWE Champion’s polarizing reputation. Punk returned to WWE in late 2023 after nearly a decade away, and Paul’s comment suggests he’s not entirely sold on the veteran’s staying power.
But Punk wasn’t the only target of Paul’s comments. He also laid claim to the popular wrestling catchphrase “Yeet,” which has become synonymous with Jey Uso.
“I was the original Yeet, by the way,” Paul declared, before adding that he had believed the phrase was “put in a bulletproof coffin” years ago.
Taking the joke further, Paul revealed he was “sending a cease-and-desist” to Jey Uso over the catchphrase.
While it’s clear Paul was speaking in jest, his comments are sure to stir conversation among wrestling fans. His rising presence in WWE continues to be a talking point, and whether it’s roasting veterans like Punk or claiming iconic catchphrases, Paul still knows how to keep himself at the center of attention.
Veteran WWE announcer Michael Cole recently discussed Corey Graves’ controversial demotion during an appearance on Impaulsive, admitting that he still doesn’t fully understand the circumstances surrounding the decision.
“I love Corey,” Cole said. “Beside McAfee, he’s probably the best partner I’ve ever had. But I still don’t understand all the dynamics of what happened.”
Graves was reportedly removed from a key commentary position after making critical remarks about WWE on social media. According to Cole, the intent behind Graves’ comments may have been misunderstood.
“He put something out there,” Cole explained. “He said he was just trying to generate interest in a storyline, but I don’t think the company saw it that way.”
Endorsement and Uncertainty
Michael Cole and Corey Graves (Photo: WWE, Illustrated)
Cole did not confirm whether Graves’ demotion was permanent but hinted that ongoing discussions might be taking place.
“I think he and the company are working it out,” Cole said.
While WWE has embraced more personality and creative freedom among its announcers, Cole acknowledged that boundaries still exist.
“We’re given more freedom now, but that doesn’t mean you can say anything you want,” he noted.
Despite the situation, Cole remains a strong supporter of Graves’ work.
“He’s an unbelievable commentator,” he said. “I hope he stays with us, because he’s one of the best.”
For now, Graves’ future with WWE remains uncertain, but Cole’s remarks confirm that the situation was not part of a scripted storyline.
Watch Michael Cole’s full interview on Impaulsive with Logan Paul:
Veteran WWE announcer Michael Cole recently shared his thoughts on WWE’s leadership transition during an appearance on Impaulsive, revealing to Logan Paul that under Vince McMahon, he never had the freedom to fully express himself.
Cole explained that during McMahon’s tenure, every aspect of WWE’s presentation adhered strictly to his vision.
“I was never really able to break out,” he admitted. “Vince was very hands-on, and everything had to fit his vision. It was his sandbox.”
Now, with Triple H and WWE President Nick Khan at the helm, Cole says the culture has shifted dramatically.
“We’re allowed to have bigger personalities now,” he noted. “You’re seeing the real Michael Cole—the guy who crowd surfs, who gets on tables, who jokes around. That would’ve never happened under Vince.”
Feeling Valued Like Never Before
Beyond creative freedom, Cole emphasized that WWE’s new leadership has made him feel truly appreciated.
“For the first time in my career, I really felt like I was important to this place,” he shared.
“The paycheck was part of it, but the way the new regime treats us… it’s night and day.”
This shift in philosophy extends across WWE, with talent now enjoying greater creative control.
“Before, Vince controlled everything,” Cole said. “Now, wrestlers are delivering promos in their own voices, and it’s making the product better.”
Cole also revealed that the company’s evolution played a key role in his decision to continue his career.
“I was considering stepping away, but my wife told me, ‘This is your legacy.’ And she was right.”
With nearly three decades in WWE, Cole is embracing this new chapter, proving that even a longtime voice of the company can still evolve alongside it.
Watch Michael Cole’s full interview on Impaulsive with Logan Paul:
Veteran WWE announcer Michael Cole revealed on Impaulsive that having PRIME’s logo on the WWE ring mat would have been unimaginable under Vince McMahon’s leadership.
“Vince thought the mat was sacred,” Cole explained. “But it’s 2025 now, and the world has changed.”
Logan Paul, whose PRIME brand is now a WWE sponsor, responded enthusiastically. “For me, it’s fantastic. It’s the future,” he said.
Cole noted that WWE’s business strategy, particularly under Triple H and Nick Khan, has shifted significantly from McMahon’s traditional approach.
“We always used to say, ‘Oh, the mat has to be clean,’ but now? You’ve got multiple logos on there.”
The discussion highlighted WWE’s evolving approach to revenue generation and brand partnerships. Paul, who has leveraged his influencer status to merge social media and professional wrestling, pointed out how this shift benefits both sides.
“It’s gotta be the right brands,” Paul added. “But let’s be real, you’re gonna get your head smashed in over a Wingstop logo? That’s amazing.”
Cole agreed that WWE’s mindset has evolved dramatically, creating new opportunities for crossover branding.
“This would’ve been unheard of five, ten years ago,” he said. “But it makes sense—this is a multi-billion-dollar entertainment business now.”
With PRIME’s growing presence in WWE, it’s clear the company’s leadership is embracing modern marketing strategies in ways McMahon never did.
Watch Michael Cole’s full interview on Impaulsive with Logan Paul:
GUNTHER has held the WWE World Heavyweight Championship for six months, making him the fourth person to hold this version of the title. Since winning it, he has defended the championship on television and at premium live events (PLEs) against opponents such as Randy Orton, Sami Zayn, and Damian Priest.
However, GUNTHER has also suffered some losses. He was defeated by Cody Rhodes for the Crown Jewel Title in November and previously put over Rhodes and Orton in a tag team match on SmackDown leading up to the title bout.
In a recent interview with the Daily Mailto promote WWE’s upcoming European tour, GUNTHER admitted that the past few months of his reign haven’t been ideal. However, he believes he is now back on track.
“I don’t think the last few months were ideal for me. I lost to Cody (Rhodes), and then everything that—that feud with (Damian) Priest, it didn’t allow me to show the best side of me, if that makes sense. But I think now I’m back to my old self. I feel my mojo again.”
GUNTHER’s next challenge is a title defense against Jey Uso at WrestleMania 41, taking place on April 19 or 20, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to an official announcement from WWE ID on social media, these championships will be unique in WWE’s ecosystem, as they will be defended exclusively on the independent wrestling circuit rather than on WWE programming.
The tournament structure and participating independent promotions will be announced in the coming weeks, establishing a new competitive division that operates primarily outside of WWE’s traditional venues.
When Hulk Hogan and Roddy Piper clashed at Madison Square Garden on MTV 40 years ago today, they didn’t just settle a score – they revolutionized professional wrestling. The February 18, 1985 event, “The War to Settle the Score,” marked a pivotal moment where sports entertainment crashed headfirst into mainstream pop culture, forever changing both industries.
The Night Wrestling Invaded MTV
In the heart of New York City, Madison Square Garden was electric as WWF Champion Hulk Hogan defended his title against his bitter rival, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. But this wasn’t just another wrestling match – it was the culmination of the groundbreaking “Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Connection,” a revolutionary partnership between the World Wrestling Federation and MTV that would help transform wrestling from a regional attraction into a national phenomenon.
Pop icon Cyndi Lauper, who had already made waves in the wrestling world through her association with Captain Lou Albano, sat ringside as two of wrestling’s biggest stars collided. The atmosphere was more rock concert than wrestling show, exactly as WWF promoter Vince McMahon had envisioned.
Chaos Erupts in the Garden
The match itself devolved into beautiful chaos when Piper’s allies, Paul Orndorff and Bob Orton Jr., stormed the ring. Hollywood tough guy Mr. T, who had been watching from ringside, leaped into action to defend Hogan. In the ensuing mayhem, Piper kicked Lauper in the head – a shocking moment that would make mainstream headlines and set the stage for an even bigger event.
In an unscripted moment that perfectly captured the collision of worlds that night, pop art legend Andy Warhol accidentally wandered into a live interview area. Rather than creating an awkward moment, Warhol improvised a passionate endorsement of the Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Connection, adding another layer of mainstream credibility to the spectacle.
The Birth of WrestleMania
The War to Settle the Score did more than deliver ratings for MTV – it laid the foundation for WrestleMania. The wild brawl between Hogan, Mr. T, Piper, and Orndorff would continue six weeks later at Madison Square Garden in the main event of the first WrestleMania, establishing a template for celebrity involvement that WWE follows to this day.
Four decades later, the impact of this revolutionary broadcast continues to resonate. The successful fusion of wrestling, music, and mainstream entertainment that night created a blueprint that transformed a regional wrestling promotion into a global entertainment empire. As WWE now streams on Netflix and collaborates with today’s biggest stars, it’s worth remembering the night on MTV that started it all.
The War to Settle the Score wasn’t just a wrestling show – it was the moment sports entertainment truly became entertainment for everyone. Forty years later, its influence can still be felt every time wrestling crosses over into mainstream culture, proving that sometimes the biggest victories in wrestling happen outside the ring.
The War to Settle the Score Results
Here are the complete match results from WWF War to Settle the Score on February 18, 1985 from Madison Square Garden in New York City:
Johnny Rodz defeated Jose Luis Rivera by pinfall
Hillbilly Jim pinned Rene Goulet
Don Muraco defeated Salvatore Bellomo via pinfall
Moondog Spot and Rick McGraw fought to a draw
David Sammartino secured a victory over Moondog Rex by pinfall
Nikolai Volkoff pinned Swede Hanson
Leilani Kai defeated Wendi Richter to win the WWF Women’s Championship
The U.S. Express (Barry Windham & Mike Rotundo) retained their WWF Tag Team Titles by defeating The Assassin & The Spoiler
Paul Orndorff defeated Tony Atlas via pinfall
Jimmy Snuka pinned Bob Orton Jr.
Hulk Hogan retained the WWF World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Roddy Piper by disqualification
WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque has provided a first look at new championship belts that will be used as part of the WWE ID program.
In a social media post Tuesday afternoon, Triple H wrote:
“The top independent wrestling prospects have been ID’d… and now, we’re ready to spotlight the best of the best. Here’s your first look at the Men’s and Women’s @WWEID Championships.”
Tournaments will be held to crown the inaugural WWE ID Men’s and Women’s champions. The titles will be defended at independent wrestling shows. More on that here:
The WWE Independent Development (ID) program is WWE’s talent development initiative that partners with wrestling schools to identify and nurture promising independent wrestlers. Selected prospects receive financial benefits, training facility access, and mentorship while maintaining their ability to compete in independent promotions. The program includes a right of first refusal clause – if another major promotion offers a contract to a WWE ID prospect, WWE can either match the offer or allow the talent to sign elsewhere.
McKenzie Mitchell is officially returning to TNA Wrestling, signing a contract to become the company’s new full-time ring announcer. The move marks a homecoming for Mitchell, who began her broadcasting career with TNA in 2016 before making a name for herself in WWE as an NXT host and backstage correspondent.
TNA Wrestling announces the signing of McKenzie Mitchell as its new ring announcer
Mitchell’s return to TNA comes just over a year after she was unexpectedly released by WWE in December 2023 during corporate layoffs. Reflecting on the transition, she described the sudden career shift as a learning experience.
“My release came at a very unexpected time… but it helps you grow,” she told Sports Illustrated.
Mitchell recently made her TNA ring-announcing debut at Genesis in January, calling Joe Hendry’s TNA World Championship victory. Now, she steps into the role permanently, replacing Jade Chung.
While she has years of on-screen experience, she acknowledges ring announcing requires a different skill set.
“It’s a different tone, a different conversation,” she said. “I’m excited to make it my own.”
Her return aligns with TNA’s new partnership with WWE, a connection made even more personal by her husband, NXT commentator Vic Joseph.
“In a kind of weird way, we’re working together again,” Mitchell noted. “It’s really special.”
For Mitchell, this next chapter is more than just a job—it’s a full-circle moment. “It’s for sure a homecoming.”
McKenzie Mitchell’s Work in WWE and TNA
Mitchell’s career spans nearly a decade in professional wrestling broadcasting. Her initial TNA run from 2016-2019 saw her serve as both backstage interviewer and social media manager. She then joined WWE in August 2019, working as an NXT correspondent, digital content host, and premium live event kickoff panelist until December 2023.
After departing WWE, Mitchell returned to TNA at the Genesis event on January 19, 2025, taking over ring announcing duties from the departing Jade Chung. Her full-time signing solidifies TNA’s broadcast team heading into 2025.
WWE 2K25 will boast the largest roster in a WWE video game in history with over 300 playable characters as well as managers and other personalities. While the game will indeed be bigger than ever, not everyone competing for the promotion has made it into WWE 2K25.
Just three Superstars from WWE’s main roster will not be included in WWE 2K25 when the game hits shelves next month. The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) will not be playable at launch. The former WWE Tag Team Champions joined the promotion in late 2024 and have been an intrinsic part of the SmackDown tag team roster ever since.
Penta is the third Superstar who won’t be a part of WWE 2K25 at launch. After a messy exit from AEW, the former Trios and Tag Team Champion arrived in WWE during the January 13, 2025, edition of WWE Raw. Since then, the masked star has quickly grown popular with the WWE Universe and was the Iron-Man in the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match after lasting over 42 minutes.
H/T to @SmackTalks for uncovering this stat. Stay tuned to SEScoops for more interesting wrestling facts and statistics.
The exclusion of these three Superstar isn’t about their talent, but rather that the three only arrived recently in WWE, well during the creation of WWE 2K25. Many have predicted that Penta and the Guns will be a part of upcoming DLC for the game.
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. While Penta and the Guns won’t be available at the start, fans shouldn’t be surprised to see the trio added as fully-fledged playable creations down the line.
WWE World’s roster continues to expand with six major additions to its inaugural fan experience. The latest announcement confirms appearances by former champions Kevin Owens, Charlotte Flair, and Drew McIntyre at the Las Vegas Convention Center event running April 17-21.
The new lineup additions also include “The EST” Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, and current Judgment Day member Damian Priest. These superstars join the previously announced talent roster for the five-day convention, expanding the opportunities for fans to meet their favorite WWE performers.
Attendees will have access to these superstars through various experiences including Superstar Row, which is open to all General Admission ticket holders. The event will also feature exclusive photo opportunities and autograph sessions, with specific scheduling details to be announced.
Beyond meet-and-greet opportunities, WWE World promises an interactive experience complete with live interviews and podcast recordings featuring the expanding roster of talent.
For additional information on WWE World Las Vegas (April 17-21, 2025), visit Fanatics Events.
Shane McMahon’s run of appearances in WWE video games has ended with WWE 2K25, breaking his streak since WWE 2K16. While WWE 2K25 will boast the largest wrestling video game roster in history, Shane, a former European and Hardcore Champion, is not part of the roster.
Though Shane’s exit marks the end of his streak in WWE video games, the McMahon family are not entirely gone. Stephanie McMahon remains as the sole McMahon family representative, appearing as both a playable character and manager.
The McMahon family’s reduced presence reflects recent changes, particularly regarding Vince McMahon. His appearances in the hit game series ended with WWE 2K24 following serious allegations in early 2024, which complicated that game’s development, especially its 40 Years of WrestleMania mode. Not only was Vince McMahon not a playable character, but WWE and 2K made great efforts to avoid using McMahon in archival footage.
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. While fans will have the chance to create Shane McMahon as part of the ‘Creation Suite,’ Shane O’Mac won’t be an official part of this year’s instalment in the franchise.
Ludwig Kaiser’s dramatic rise as a singles star has caught the attention of WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker, the German Superstar has shared. On the Insight podcast, Kaiser recalled receiving high praise from the Phenom of WWE.
“Goosebumps, man. That’s crazy. The Undertaker tells you exactly what you need to hear. No sugarcoating.”
The WWE legend didn’t just offer compliments to Kaiser, who transitioned into a singles role in 2024. The Undertaker also gave Kaiser direct advice on how to elevate his game.
“He told me what I needed to do, and it was something I had already felt myself. He reassured me that I was on the right path.”
Though Kaiser stopped short of every detail of the meeting, he shared that the pair spoke for 20 minutes. Recognizing that the Undertaker didn’t have to speak to him, Kaiser called their talk a pivotal changing point in his career.
“He didn’t have to do that. He’s The Undertaker. But he cared. And that meant a lot to me… “If that meeting hadn’t happened, who knows? It was one of those moments in life where you go, ‘Man, this changes everything.’”
Ludwig Kaiser has spent most of his WWE career alongside Gunther—but could that ever change? In an interview with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Kaiser spoke about his long-time partnership with the reigning World Heavyweight Champion.
“We go way back. People see us as a unit, but I had my fourth-ever match against him. We’ve battled across Europe before we ever teamed together in WWE.”
In 2024, Kaiser turned on Giovanni Vinci, another long-time ally, leaving fans to speculate that GUNTHER could be targeted by the German next. Despite GUNTHER holding Raw’s richest prize, Kaiser would be wary to get on the bad side of the ring general.
“It’s better to be on GUNTHER’s side than against him. Trust me on that.”
When pressed further on possibly turning on GUNTHER, Kaiser explained why he can’t see himself betraying his friend.
“I don’t think so. As a European, loyalty means a lot to me. And GUNTHER has helped me so much in my career.”
On the podcast, Van Vliet pointed out that WWE alliances rarely last forever, with even The New Day splitting last December after ten years of union. Kaiser joked that fans can “never say never” but for the time being “I stand by my words.”
With WrestleMania 41 approaching, GUNTHER’s focus is on Jey Uso and defending the World Heavyweight Championship against the popular star. With such a huge match on the horizon, GUNTHER won’t have to worry about being betrayed by Ludwig Kaiser, for now…
