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Jonathan Coachman & Matt Rehwoldt Join WES Commentary Team For June 4 Event

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Jonathan Coachman and Matt Rehwoldt will be taking the commentary reins on June 4 for the inaugural WES event.

The Wrestling Entertainment Series will get underway next month and it’ll feature a lineup full of ex-WWE talent and one controversial MMA fighter. The official Twitter account of WES has announced that both Coachman and Rehwoldt will be the commentators for its June 4 show.

In the main event, Adam Scherr, formerly known as Braun Strowman in WWE, will take on former UFC heavyweight Alistair Overeem. “The Reem” is a bit controversial as he once labeled pro wrestling as “gay” during an interview with Ariel Helwani back in 2021.

The card will also feature Lina Fanene, the former Nia Jax, taking on CJ Perry (Lana).

Take a look at the full card for the WES show below:

  • Adam Scherr vs. Alistair Overeem – for the WES World Title
  • Lina Fanene vs. CJ Perry – for the WES Women’s Title
  • Gzim Selmani & Sunny Dhinsa vs. Westin Blake & Steve Maclin – for the WES Tag Team Titles
  • Killer Kross vs. Samuray Del Sol vs. JONAH
  • Madison Rayne & Tenille Dashwood vs. Deonna Purrazzo & Chelsea Green – for the WES Women’s Tag Team Titles
  • Dean Muhtadi vs. Lince Dorado
  • Mike Bennett vs. Biff Busick (pre-show match)
  • Dirty Dango vs. Levis Valenzuela Jr. (pre-show match)

Wrestling World Reacts To Stephanie McMahon Stepping Back From WWE Duties

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Stephanie McMahon has taken a leave of absence from WWE and the wrestling world has responded.

Stephanie shocked many fans with the announcement on her Twitter page. The WWE Chief Brand Officer cited wanting to spend more time with her family as the reason for her stepping away from most of her duties at this time.

They say your reputation precedes you, and it appears Stephanie has a ton of supporters.

Here are just some of the reactions to her leave of absence:

https://twitter.com/AlexaBliss_WWE/status/1527392281321422848

Stephanie McMahon Takes Leave Of Absence From WWE

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Stephanie McMahon has announced she’ll be stepping away from most of her duties within WWE for now.

The WWE Chief Brand Officer took to her Twitter account to make the announcement.

“As of tomorrow, I am taking a leave of absence from the majority of my responsibilities at WWE. WWE is a lifelong legacy for me and I look forward to returning to the company that I love after taking this time to focus on my family.”

As mentioned in the quote, Stephanie talked about spending more time with her family. Her husband, Triple H, was forced to retire from in-ring action due to a significant heart issue.

Triple H needed to have a defibrillator put in his chest. Many wonder if he’ll even be fully back in the swing of things behind the scenes.

It’s possible that Stephanie is taking a step back to handle more at-home responsibilities with Triple H still having some health problems.

The news is sure to come as a surprise to fans given that Stephanie is the daughter of Vince McMahon. With that said, clearly, there are more important matters to address.

John Morrison’s AEW Status Revealed

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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John Morrison made his AEW debut as “Johnny Elite” but is he a member of the full-time roster?

That question has been answered thanks to a report from PWInsider. The report notes that Morrison is currently not signed to a deal with AEW.

With that said, the promotion is open to having some more appearances from “Johnny Elite.”

Morrison was the “Joker” entrant in the men’s quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Cup. He went one-on-one with ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe. Morrison fell short in the match, getting pinned after taking a Muscle Buster.

After the match, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, and Satnam Singh hit the ring and attacked both men.

Members of CHAOS ran out to make the save.

WWE cut ties with Morrison back in Nov. 2021. He ended up returning to AAA as “Johnny Superstar” before settling on “Johnny Caballero.”

Fans have also witnessed Morrison return to the indies. He had a few matches under the GCW banner.

Update On Bryan Danielson Following AEW Rampage Taping

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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An update has surfaced on Bryan Danielson’s health following a recent AEW Rampage taping.

Fans inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas got quite a scare when Danielson got his leg caught between the entrance ramp and the ring. This occurred at the conclusion of the Rampage taping set to air on May 20.

Danielson was said to have had his leg stuck for a lengthy period of time. Some fans say it was as long as 10 minutes, while others claim it was much shorter.

PWInsider is reporting that Bryan Danielson was “OK” backstage following the situation. The report also notes that there’s no word on the rumor spreading that this may have been a work.

Danielson was able to walk to the back on his own power but he was limping. He remained in character, however, flipping the bird towards Eddie Kingston.

Danielson and Kingston recently got into a shoving match despite being aligned for a program with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society. Danielson attempted to hold Kingston back from going after Jericho on Dynamite, causing friction between the two.

Those tuning into Rampage this Friday night will get to see how the tag team match between Danielson and Moxley vs. Dante Martin and Matt Sydal played out.

AEW Introducing Several New Championship Belts Soon (Spoilers)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Championships don’t exactly come at a premium in wrestling and AEW is no exception.

Voices of Wrestling is reporting that the male and female winners of the Owen Hart Cup will be presented with special titles likely in place of trophies. The report also notes that these titles will have a black and pink theme to honor Owen Hart.

These championships are not expected to be defended.

The following section contains spoilers for the May 20 episode of AEW Rampage.

New Custom TNT Title?

Scorpio Sky TNT Championship
(via AEW)

AEW has already taped the May 20 episode of Rampage. During the show, there was a segment involving TNT Champion Scorpio Sky, Ethan Page, Dan Lambert, Sammy Guevara, and Frankie Kazarian.

At one point, Guevara and Kazarian destroyed Sky’s TNT Championship with a sledgehammer.

This seems to indicate that Sky could be getting a new custom championship soon. Of course, it’s speculation at this point but Sky does love some LA Lakers colors. Could we be seeing a purple and gold spin on the TNT Title?

We already know that AEW is planning to unleash Trios Titles in the future. AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the report from Dave Meltzer during an interview with TSN.

In fact, Khan said that those titles have been created for a while.

The Undertaker’s WrestleMania Streak Nearly Ended in 2009

Jon Fuentes
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The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak nearly ended on a count out back at WrestleMania 25.

What some consider to be the best WrestleMania match of all time, The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michael took place from Houston, Texas’ NRG Stadium in 2009. Undertaker and Michaels put on an absolute classic, with “The Deadman” ultimately coming out on top.

Recently, the man who refereed that match, Marty Elias, was a guest on Chris Jericho’s podcast, “Talk Is Jericho,” During the show, Elias revealed that The Undertaker’s streak almost ended that night due to a count out.

After a spot where Undertaker dove out of the ring, he landed wrong and actually came down on his head. Taker had told Elias if he didn’t make it back into the ring, to actually count him out.

However, Elias was selling a bump he took earlier in the match, and was able to use that to slow his count. Taker was able to get back in the ring and finish the match as planned.

“At WrestleMania 25, when I did my counts on Taker after the dive, that count was a shoot count (When Taker went for the dive, didn’t get caught, and landed on his head).

“The only instruction I ever got out of that match was from Taker. He said, ‘If I don’t get back in, you shoot count me out’, and we came very, very close to counting him out.

“But if you go back and look at that, I was drawing my counts out, and I was drawing 74,000 people in with my counts. I took my time because I was still selling because they had bumped me earlier. So I was still selling that.

“But at the same time, I was still dramatizing it and I was elongating that count. So I was getting the people behind me.

“I was looking at Taker, and Taker and I didn’t make eye contact until nine on the 10 count. So that streak almost ended at WrestleMania 25 on a count out.”

“He was concussed. He had a broken collarbone. He broke his ring finger. So yeah, he was pretty fu*ked up.”

The Streak wouldn’t end for another five years until Brock Lesnar defeated The Undertaker at WrestleMania 30. To this day, the only two men who have ever defeated Undertaker at WrestleMania are Lesnar and Roman Reigns.

Undertaker officially retired from active professional wrestling in November of 2020, making the announcement at Survivor Series. He was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame by Vince McMahon this past April in his home state of Texas.

Quotes via WrestlingNewsCo

Ric Flair Addresses Concerns About In-Ring Return

Jon Fuentes
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Ric Flair has addressed those who are concerned about his decision to return to the ring this summer.

Since it was announced that Flair will be making an in-ring return in tag team action on July 31, some have voiced concern about Flair wrestling at his age. Especially given his past health issues. However, Flair addressed these concerns on a recent episode of his podcast.

Flair explained that he has spoken to doctors about wrestling with a pacemaker. The doctors seem to think there’s enough scar tissue around it for Flair to give it a shot.

“The Nature Boy” added that he’s not doing this for money. He just wants to do something he’s done his whole life, something he loves.

“So, I almost died four years ago. I got a pacemaker. I almost died of a blood clot. I had four heart operations in seven weeks. I’m good to go. I will decide on when I want to go.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cdvwu8GtM1J/

“So this is not about the money. This is about me doing what I’ve done my whole life. I watch wrestling every day because I love it, and I respect the guys in it.

“Everybody’s got a different opinion. So I follow one heart doctor that I have the most confidence in, the guy I like the most. I called him and said I wanted to do this. The only thing I was worried about was getting in with a pacemaker.

“He said, ‘Ric, there’s enough scar tissue around that thing now that I believe it’ll hold. If you want to do it, do it.’ That was the answer. That was the only concern.

“The other concern, which I haven’t had in a long time, would have been when I get dizzy because of the equilibrium issue that I have with the inner ear problem, but I haven’t had that since I wrestled Edge in a ladder match.

“So, just a couple of concerns, but I’m not afraid of it. I have more self confidence, which is important for me personally, than I had when I wrestled Shawn, especially because this will be a tag match format.”

The 73-year-old Flair will compete in a tag team match on July 31 inside the Nashville Fairgrounds. Opponents have yet to be announced. The event will air on FITE TV with tickets going on sale May 27.

It is being advertised as Ric Flair’s final match.

Ric Flair’s Last Match

In a press release sent in to SEScoops, Starrcast provides the official details:

“On July 31st, at 6:05pm EDT, ‘The Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, who many consider the greatest professional wrestler of all-time, is set to return to the ring, one final time, as part of ‘Jim Crockett Promotions Presents: Ric Flair’s Last Match’ wrestling event.”

“Taking place at the world famous Nashville Fairgrounds, the 16-time former World Heavyweight Champion will don a new custom-made robe and bring the one-of-a-kind showmanship that has made Flair a cultural icon for his over-40 years in the professional wrestling business.”

Tickets for Ric Flair’s Last Match go on sale next Friday, May 27th at RicFlairsLastMatch.com.

Here’s the official hype video for Ric Flair’s Last Match:

Quotes via NoDq.com

Kevin Nash Podcast “Kliq This” Launching in July

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash is joining the podcast world.

The 6-time World Champion and nWo original is teaming up with Sean Oliver (Kayfabe Commentaries) and Podcast Heat to bring you “Kliq This: The Kevin Nash Podcast.”

The show, which will featured uncensored and unfiltered conversations, premieres July 11th. Kliq This will be available on major audio and video platforms.

Kevin Nas had this to say in a press release sent in to SEScoops:

“Kliq This listeners will get a magical mystery tour into all aspect of life,” said Nash. “No topic is off limits or out of bounds. We will be pop culture driven, but not too timid to attack today’s current cancel culture.”

“Kliq This will be the best of what fans loved about our shoot interviews together, just on a much broader scale,” added Oliver. “Fans will slide up to the bar next to Kevin and me for banter and guests ranging from the stars of wrestling, to entertainment, to music and Lord knows what else.”

Nash and Oliver have worked together extensively for a series of shoot interviews.

Follow @KliqThisPodcast on Twitter for more information on this upcoming show.

Jim Ross Clarifies Comments About Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts’ Health

Thomas Lowson
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AEW Commentator Jim Ross has said that he didn’t mean to cause an issue for Jake Roberts after reporting that the former wrestler is in poor health.

Earlier this month, JR reported that Roberts’ health is “not good” but Jake later refuted the claim via tweet.

Speaking on this week’s ‘Grillin’ JR’ podcast, Ross said that Roberts will know his own health better but that he still believes he is dealing with multiple issues.

“I said some stuff about Jake’s health and his breathing issues and he denies as sickly as I portrayed him to be,” Ross said.

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging, he’s got a breathing machine, oxygen he carries with him and to me, that’s not normal but he’s dealing with it. He’s under great doctor’s care and I didn’t want to start some bullsh*t about Jake because it might affect his bookings.”

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging.”

Jim Ross

Roberts’ most recent AEW appearance came on the April 27, Dynamite, where he accompanied Lance Archer for his match with Wardlow.

Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Paul Heyman: Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes “Writes Itself”

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Paul Heyman believes that WWE won’t have to work very hard selling fans on Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes.

Since making his return to WWE, Cody has been treated as a massive star on the Raw brand. The company went as far as to feature a countdown clock for Cody’s appearance on the May 16 episode of Raw.

It’s become quite clear that WWE is all in on Cody Rhodes.

Tribal Chief vs. The American Nightmare

During an appearance on 98.5’s Wrestling Inside The Ropes, the Special Counsel to the “Tribal Chief,” Paul Heyman, expressed his belief that Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes would be an easy story to tell (h/t 411Mania.com).

“Cody [Rhodes], is not only someone with, with an extensive legacy but I mean, my God, he’s the son of the American Dream, Dusty Rhodes, but he has carved out his niche. He’s achieved his accomplishments.

“And when he couldn’t gain enough traction in WWE to become a legend, to become a first-ballot Hall of Famer, to become a WWE or universal or unified heavyweight champion, he went out on his own.

“He blazed his trail.

“He created something, co-created, and helped create something that completely changed the complexion of the industry. And now he comes back to claim what he feels is his moment. And the only way that he’s going to be able to live that moment is to step into the ring with the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.

“What it’s a story that writes itself and, and, and Cody Rhodes is a magnificent talent who, whether he is, and he is the son of Dusty Rhodes, but whether he is, or isn’t the son of Dusty Rhodes on his own, just as Joe blow, not as big a name as Cody Rhodes, but still he could take the name, Joe Blow, and he could become huge box office.

“There is, I was dissatisfied with the landscape in the industry and I decided to change it myself. And that’s what Cody Rhodes did. He was dissatisfied with the landscape of the sports entertainment industry, and he went out on his own and, and along with others, uh, he changed it himself and he changed it along with the various people that, that, that collaborated to create a new landscape in the industry.

“So, yes, there are parallels.”

Cody hasn’t been shy in teasing a match with the “Head of the Table.” He has said that the match is certainly there.

Reigns has done his part in subtly hyping things up as well. He destroyed a Cody Rhodes fan sign after the April 11 episode of Raw went off the air.

Cody’s main goal is to capture the WWE Championship. It’s a title that Reigns holds as he is the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Toni Storm Says Charlotte Flair Pie Angle is Better Than Originally Pitched Idea

Thomas Lowson
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AEW’s Toni Storm may not have enjoyed being doused with pastries in WWE, but it was far better than the company’s original idea.

The former NXT UK Women’s Champion was called up to SmackDown in July 2021 but was granted her requested release in December that same year.

Prior to her departure, Storm feuded with then-SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair and was covered in pie on the November 26, SmackDown.

Appearing on this latest ‘AEW Unrestricted,’ Storm was asked about the angle and said it was originally pitched for her to have her clothes ripped off.

“The original idea was I was asked if I was comfortable with having my shirt ripped off or something. They wanted to do this whole angle where it was like they were going to rip my shirt and I would be embarrassed in my underwear, I guess. I don’t know. When you’re asked if you feel comfortable doing that, and it’s like literally people are being fired every single week, it’s like, ‘Oh, yeah.’

“So to be honest, the pie was actually a sweet treat in comparison to what it could have been. In hindsight, I didn’t really mind. You know what? People think I’m so mad about that. I think it’s hilarious.”

“When you’re asked if you feel comfortable doing that [Having your clothes ripped off,] and it’s like literally people are being fired every single week, it’s like, ‘Oh, yeah.’”

Toni Storm

Storm added that after her WWE release, she considered herself done with wrestling, believing she would have to “leave forever.”

The New Zealand-Australian is currently competing in the Owen Hart Women’s Foundation Tournament and will face Britt Baker in the semi-finals.

Thanks to Wrestling News for the transcription.

Former WWE Referee Slams Ric Flair For Having One More Match

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A former WWE referee has taken issue with Ric Flair having one final match.

Flair has been announced to have one more match on July 31. He was rumored to face Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat in some capacity, likely a tag team match.

Steamboat took to a Highspots autograph signing to reveal that he was offered the match but declined it.

Ric Flair’s In-Ring Return Blasted

Former WWE referee Brian Hebner took to the Refin’ It Up podcast to share his belief that Ric Flair has made a “stupid” decision getting back in the ring at the age of 73 (h/t WrestlingNews.co).

“Ric Flair, I love you, but what the fu*k are you thinking?

“This man is 73 years old. He has a pacemaker and is not in the best of health or in the best of shape. I’m sorry. I don’t see anything exciting about this to me at all. Nothing.”

“Now if he was coming out in gimmick to walk down the aisle with his daughter or something like that, fine. This, to me, is ridiculous. It really is,” he continued.

“I know how my father is, and I can almost bet you my father is in better health than Ric Flair. They’re probably equal on alcoholic. But I can tell you right now, I see my dad do his thing, which is nowhere near what Ric Flair is going to have to do, which is take a bump, get up, feed, or whatever he’s going to do.”

“Like I said, I love Ric Flair, but I think this is going to tarnish more than it’s going to be helping his legacy. I’m just not excited about it. I really think it’s stupid. If it’s about money, I guess you got to do what you got to do, but to me, there’s nothing positive about this. Not one thing.”

Flair’s last match is being promoted by Starrcast. It’ll take place inside the Nashville Fairgrounds.

The special event will be airing live on FITE TV.

Update On Naomi’s WWE Contract

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Some information on Naomi’s WWE contract has surfaced.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio is reporting that Naomi’s deal with WWE is set to expire in the near future. An exact date is unknown but it’s close.

She had been negotiating an extension before walking out of the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw. It’s been said that this could’ve played a factor in Naomi’s decision to join Sasha Banks in walking out.

In an exclusive interview, Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE, told SEScoops’ Steve Fall that she believes Naomi was manipulated into leaving the arena with Sasha.

Ariane offered to reunite with her former tag team partner to avoid the “foolishness.”

Naomi and Sasha are the current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. They were supposed to be featured on a six-pack challenge this past Monday. PWInsider reports Naomi was going to win the match before her walkout.

The plan was for Naomi to challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha would’ve challenged Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.

Both Naomi and Sasha were expected to lose those title matches.

Cody Rhodes Doesn’t Want Founding AEW to be His Legacy

Thomas Lowson
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0

WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes has said that being a co-founder of All Elite Wrestling won’t be his legacy.

Rhodes founded AEW alongside Tony Khan, the Young Bucks, and Kenny Omega in early 2019 but left in February this year to return to WWE.

Speaking to Justin Barrasso of Sport Illustrated, Cody said that he’s proud of helping to start AEW but wants to be remembered for much more than that promotion.

“I don’t want my wrestling legacy solely to be that I helped start an alternative wrestling company. I’m really proud of that and I want it to be part of my legacy, but what I’ve always wanted is what I’m after right now. I’m getting a second chance at that, and that is my entire focus. I want to do this for my whole family. My wife, my daughter, my sister Teil, my mom. If I can’t hand this title to my dad, it would be wonderful to hand it to my mom.”

“i don’t want my wrestling legacy solely to be that I helped start an alternative wrestling company.”

Cody Rhodes

Rhodes will face Seth Rollins inside Hell in a Cell at WWE’s next Premium Live Event on June 5.

Thanks to ITRWrestling for the transcription.

AEW’s Miro Features in Trailer for CBS’ ‘East New York’

Thomas Lowson
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Former AEW TNT Champion Miro is featured in the trailer for ‘East New York‘ an upcoming series from CBS.

Miro hasn’t been seen on AEW programming since Full Gear 2021 where he lost to Bryan Danielson.

The new show will star Amanda Warren (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) with Miro’s character being named Nikolai Dushkin.

The official description for the show is as follows:

“Regina Haywood (Warren) is the newly promoted deputy inspector of East New York, a working-class neighborhood at the edge of Brooklyn. She leads a diverse group of officers and detectives, some of whom are reluctant to deploy her creative methods of serving and protecting in the midst of social upheaval and the early seeds of gentrification.”

You can check out the trailer below.

Miro’s previous roles

RusevGun.0.0
Miro (then Rusev) points a gun at narcotics officer Ray Thompson (Dolph Ziggler) in 2016’s ‘Countdown.’

This may be Miro’s biggest role to date but isn’t his only foray into acting.

In 2016, the then-Rusev played himself in ‘Countdown‘ a WWE Studios production that sees narcotics cop Ray Thompson (Dolph Ziggler) attempt to rescue a hostage from a madman.

That same year, the Bulgarian wrestler provided his voice for ‘Scooby-Doo and WWE: Curse of the Speed Demon.‘

Thanks to Deadline for the transcription

Anthony Bowens Says Opportunity To Be At Dynamite “Was Taken Away” From Him

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

AEW star Anthony Bowens made a cryptic tweet before this week’s episode of Dynamite that has got people talking about his absence from the show.

One half of The Acclaimed took on his Twitter before this week’s episode of the Wednesday night show. He mentioned how he wanted to be at the TV tapings from Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas but that opportunity was taken away from him:

Anthony Bowens wrote: “I wish I was at #AEWDynamite tonight in Houston but that opportunity was taken away from me”:

The Acclaimed last wrestled for AEW during the May 11 episode of AEW Dark: Elevation. They teamed up with The Gunn Club to defeat Bryce Donovan, GKM, Lucas Chase & Zack Clayton.

Though it’s been a while since their last Televised match. Prior to the Dark appearance, Anthony Bowens and Max Caster challenged Jurassic Express for the AEW tag team titles during the March 9 episode of Dynamite.

The AEW star did not provide any more details on his absence. So it’s hard to say if it’s some kind of injury that has been affecting him or if the lack of creative direction is the reason for his absence from this week’s show.

Paul Heyman Says Roman Reigns Match Is ‘Up To The Rock’

Anutosh Bajpai
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Roman Reigns vs The Rock is one of the most highly anticipated matches of recent years. Paul Heyman says it’s up to the Great One if this showdown takes place.

The mad scientist of wrestling recently had an interview with James Stewart of the 98.5 Sports Hub Inside The Ropes Show where he discussed a number of things.

When asked about a potential match between his client and The Rock, Heyman said that The Tribal Chief will be happy to smash The Great One anywhere he wants:

“That’s up to The Rock. I mean, if The Rock wants to get his ass kicked in front of a hundred thousand people,

Whether it’s in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Boston, New York, Miami, or the moon if Elon Musk colonizes it, Roman Reigns would be happy to smash to The Rock,”

Heyman was also asked about other potential challengers for Roman Reigns. He said that the Head Of The Table will be willing to give an opportunity to anyone who is a great box office attraction.

He explained that they are in the business to fill arenas and stadiums and draw money. So he wants anyone who is good box office to be in the ring with the undisputed champion.

Quotes via WrestlingInc

Bryan Danielson Suffers Freak Accident At AEW Rampage Taping (Video)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Bryan Danielson found himself in a precarious situation at Wednesday’s AEW Rampage taping.

Danielson and Jon Moxley took on Dante Martin and Matt Sydal in the main event, which is set to air on May 20. After the match, Danielson and Moxley had a brawl with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society.

Danielson had a scary moment when his leg got caught between the ring and the entrance ramp. It was said that Danielson’s leg had been stuck for over 10 minutes. He was limping once he got free.

Here’s video of the incident courtesy of Nick Swanson.

Twitter user @mutalockz provided another angle:

Danielson was featured on the May 18 episode of Dynamite but he hadn’t wrestled until the Rampage taping. During Dynamite, he had a segment that ended in him and Eddie Kingston shoving each other over a disagreement.

We’ll keep you posted once more information is available.

The Rock Gives More Info on XFL’s Deal With Disney, ESPN, ABC, FX

Anutosh Bajpai
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The Rock has provided some more details on XFL’s deal with Disney that will see the football league airing on various Disney platforms.

The People’s champion shared a post on Instagram. He mentioned how he has built a relationship with Disney over the years.

The Rock then revealed that the first season of XFL in 2023 will have a total of 43 games including the playoffs. These will air across ESPN, ABC and FX:

“Starting in 2023, all 43 XFL games including playoffs + championship game will air across @ESPN, @ABC and for the first time ever, pro football will run on FX.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdtwIrtPqwP/?igshid=NDBlY2NjN2I=

The Journey of XFL

XFL was originally founded back in 2001 as a joint venture between WWE and NBC. The venture ceased operation after just one season due to poor ratings.

Vince McMahon tried to revive the league back in 2020. However, after only five weeks of play in its inaugural season, it had to be halted again due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In August that year, Dwyane ‘The Rock’ Johnson, alongside some other business partners purchased the XFL for $15 million. XFL is currently planning to make a return in 2023 and this deal with Disney is a positive step in that direction.

Spoiler: Former WWE Star Makes Appearance On AEW Rampage

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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A former WWE talent wrestled during the AEW Rampage taping set to air on May 20.

After Dynamite went off the air, Rampage was filmed inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas. Shawn Spears was in action but his opponent hadn’t been revealed ahead of time.

That’s because the opponent was a bit of a surprise.

Big Damo, formerly known as Killian Dain in WWE, wrestled against Spears. Damo ended up falling short in the match.

Spears’ victory is to continue his reputation of being a giant killer before he faces Wardlow. Something tells us Spears’ luck is about to run out.

Check out a couple of images of Big Damo’s AEW debut (via Wrestleism).

https://twitter.com/wrestleism/status/1527116489052102656

Damo was released by WWE back in June 2021. The company sighted budget reasons as the cause of his exit.

Damo struggled to get back to work in the wrestling business due to visa issues. It has become clear that those issues are now a thing of the past as he has been booked for several shows and of course, appeared on AEW Rampage.

Maki Itoh Returns To AEW For Owen Hart Cup

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Maki Itoh has made her return to an AEW ring.

Britt Baker was set for action in a quarterfinal match in the Owen Hart Cup. Going into the May 18 episode of AEW Dynamite, Baker’s opponent was a mystery. She was to go one-on-one with the “Joker” entry.

That mystery opponent was Maki Itoh.

Itoh fell short in her efforts against Baker, tapping out to Lockjaw. After the match, Toni Storm made her way out. Storm will meet Baker in the semifinals.

Peep Itoh’s surprise return below:

Johnny Elite Makes AEW Debut As The “Joker” Entrant In Owen Hart Cup

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Cup kicked off AEW Dynamite on May 18 and the “Joker” entrant was Johnny Elite.

Yes, the former John Morrison has made his way to AEW. He shared the ring with ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe.

Johnny Elite ended up losing the match via pinfall. After the match, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, and Satnam Singh attacked both men. Members of CHAOS ran out to make the save.

Check out his promotional debut:

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1527077285089759232

Johnny was released from WWE back in Nov. 2021. The promotion used budget cuts as the reason for giving him his walking papers.

He made his return to AAA as Johnny Superstar. He quickly underwent another name change, referring to himself as “Johnny Caballero.”

Johnny also dabbled into the indies again, making appearances for GCW.

AJ Lee Looking Shredded As She Begins Commentary Work for WOW

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AJ Lee may have no plans to get back inside the ring but she’s kept herself in outstanding shape.

The first set of TV tapings for the relaunch of WOW has been completed. AJ is an Executive Producer for the promotion. She also serves as a color commentator.

AJ Lee Stays Shredded

Taking to her Twitter account, AJ Lee showed off her phenomenal physique following the WOW TV tapings.

On the surface, one might think AJ would be good to go for an in-ring return. Back in Oct. 2021, she spoke to superfan Izzy on behalf of WOW.

During the interview, AJ didn’t rule out an in-ring return but she said her joy moving forward comes from allowing new talent to shine.

“So I will say, I say the same thing in every interview. It’s always, ‘never say never,’ but don’t hold your breath. And what I mean by that is that I never say never to anything.

“Physically, mentally, emotionally I’m healed from everything I’ve gone through in wrestling. I could technically do it, but I am so enjoying letting the next generation have their spotlight. I got to do everything I wanted to do so it really would have to be is that challenge there? I don’t think the girls need me there.

“I think that they are going to take over the world all by themselves.”

AJ Lee had her final match back in April 2015. It appears no injury would hold her back from returning, which was initially feared seven years ago.

AEW Dynamite Results (5/18/22): CM Punk & Hangman Page, Owen Hart Tournament, MJF & Wardlow

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired live from the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas. The Owen Hart Tournament continued tonight and MJF gave Wardlow his 10 Lashes ahead of their match at AEW Double or Nothing on May 29th.

AEW Dynamite Results

  • Samoa Joe def. Johnny Elite to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Hangman Page def. Konosuke Takeshita
  • Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland def. The Workhorsemen
  • Kyle O’Reilly def. Rey Fenix to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Britt Baker def. Maki Itoh to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament
  • Adam Cole def. Jeff Hardy to advance in the Owen Hart Tournament

Here are the takeaways from this week’s Dynamite:

Samoa Joe Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe battled Johnny Elite (FKA John Morrison) in the quarter-finals of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Joe controlled the match early and beat Johnny down in the corner. Johnny Elite battled back as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

Back in the ring, Samoa Joe leveled Johnny Elite with a shoulder tackle. Samoa Joe followed it up with an Atomic Drop and a Senton for a near fall. Joe then connected with the Muscle Buster for the pinfall victory. Samoa Joe has advanced in the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. After the match, Satnam Singh, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt rushed the ring and attacked Joe. Best Friends made the save and the heels retreated to end the segment.

Hangman Page Sent A Message To CM Punk

AEW Champion Hangman Page faced Konosuke Takeshita tonight on Dynamite. CM Punk joined commentary for the match and will battle Page for the title at Double or Nothing on May 29th.

Hangman controlled the action early and took a break to pose for the crowd outside the ring. Konosuke capitalized with a Splash and rolled the champion back into the ring. They battled on the apron until Hangman took control. Hangman knocked him to the floor and hit a Moonsault as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, the battle continued and both men connected with a Clothesline at the same time as the crowd chanted “AEW!”. Takeshita dominated the next few minutes but Hangman caught him with a forearm to the face. Hangman Page followed it up with a Buckshot Lariat and then the GTS as Punk smiled on commentary. Page then covered Takeshita for the pinfall victory.

After the match, the two posed for the crowd and CM Punk got the much bigger reaction from the crowd. Hangman circled Punk before storming away to end the segment.

AEW Tag Title Match Announced For Double Or Nothing

Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland faced The Workhorsemen tonight on Dynamite. Strickland and Lee dominated the action and won with a Powerbomb/ Double Stomp combo on JD Drake. After the match, Keith Lee grabbed the microphone and said that they have become a top 5 ranked tag team.

Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs interrupted said they wanted a title shot before them. Christian Cage came to the entrance ramp with AEW Tag Team Champions Jurassic Express. Cage suggested a Triple Threat match at AEW Tag Team Championships at Double or Nothing.

MJF & Shawn Spears Attacked Wardlow

MJF and Shawn Spears came down to the ring to a chorus of boos. Maxwell pretended to throw up while mentioning Houston and the crowd loudly chanted “asshole”. MJF brought up Wardlow and said that he cannot retaliate during the lashes or he doesn’t get the match at DoN, and can never sign a contract in AEW.

Wardlow was escorted to the ring by security and MJF hit him with the whip. Wardlow laughed and MJF hit him again. Wardlow was still laughing and MJF took off his jacket. MJF hit him with a bunch of lashes in a row but Wardlow wouldn’t budge. Maxwell threw a tantrum and Spears held him back.

Spears hit him with the 8th and 9th lash. Wardlow got fired up and got in MJF’s face to let him know he only has one more. MJF hit Wardlow with a low blow and a few more lashes. Maxwell put on the Dynamite Diamond ring and punched Wardlow in the face with it. Spears then hit Wardlow with the C4 and covered him as MJF made the count.

Kyle O’Reilly Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Kyle O’Reilly battled Rey Fenix tonight in an Owen Hart Tournament match. Fenix controlled the action early but O’Reilly battled back and sent him to the outside. O’Reilly focused his attack on Fenix’s shoulder and slammed into the ring post as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, O’Reilly kept focusing his attack on Fenix’s arm but Rey battled back with some kicks. O’Reilly connected with a Butterfly Suplex and went for a Wrist Lock but Fenix escaped. Rey hit a Hurricanrana off the apron and to the floor before rolling Kyle back into the ring. O’Reilly took Rey down to the mat and got him in an armbar for the submission victory.

Regal & Jericho Face-To-Face

Blackpool Combat Club, Eddie Kingston, Santana, Ortiz came to the ring for the face-to-face confrontation with Chris Jericho. Chris called Bryan Danielson a “squeaky clean nerd” and joked about Regal & Moxley being alcoholics. Regal admitted that Jericho said some truths about his past. Regal joked that he used to stick Jericho’s toothbrush up his ass while they worked together.Jericho was about to suggest a Stadium Stampede match but Moxley interrupted. Jon suggested a 5 vs. 5 match and Kingston wanted a fight tonight. Jericho Appreciation Society opted to just walk backstage instead.

Thunder Rosa & Serena Deeb Brawled Before Their Title Match At Double or Nothing

Tony Schiavone came to the ring to talk about Double or Nothing reaching its three year anniversary when he was interrupted by Serena Deeb. Serena noted that Tony picked Thunder Rosa to defeat her at the PPV and called him a failure. Deeb added that she has been through hell in this business, shaved her head, and challenged Tony to have the balls to explain why he picked Thunder Rosa.

Deeb slapped Schiavone and Dustin Rhodes appeared to try to break things up. Deeb scolded Dustin until AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa made her way to the ring. A brawl broke out and Deeb hit Thunder Rosa with the title. Thunder Rosa will defend the AEW Women’s Championship against Serena Deeb at Double or Nothing.

Britt Baker Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Britt Baker battled Miki Itoh in the Owen Hart Women’s Foundation Tournament. Maki Itoh was revealed to be The Joker. Baker bounced Maki’s head off the turnbuckle but she no-sold it. Maki then hit her own head off the turnbuckle several times to fire herself up and shoved Baker to the mat. Britt eventually battled back and applied the Lockjaw for the submission victory. After the match, Toni Storm showed up on the entrance ramp for a stare down. Baker and Storm will battle next in the tournament.

Adam Cole Advanced In The Owen Hart Tournament

Jeff Hardy faced Adam Cole in the semifinals of the Owen Hart Tournament and it was tonight’s main event. Matt Hardy was ringside for the match. Adam Cole attacked Jeff Hardy during his entrance and beat him down before Dynamite went to the final commercial break of the night.

When Dynamite returned, Hardy connected with a flying Clothesline off the apron and brought Cole back into the ring. Jeff hit a Jawbreaker and went for the cover but Cole kicke out at two. Hardy elbowed Cole in the face and climbed to the top rope. Cole dodged the Swanton Bomb and hit Hardy with the Boom for the pinfall victory. Adam Cole advanced in the Owen Hart Tournament.

After the match, Young Bucks rushed the ring and were about to attack The Hardys. Darby Allin and Sting made the save but Undisputed Elite beat them down. Undisputed Elite put Sting’s leg in a chair and bashed it to close the show.

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