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Top AEW Stars Appearing on ‘Carpool Karaoke: The Series’ Soon

Thomas Lowson
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Stars from AEW are preparing to step out of the ring and into the car as part of the next season of Carpool Karaoke: The Series.

The Emmy Award-winning show, now entering its fifth season is based on the Carpool Karaoke segment from “The Late Late Show with James Corden.”

AEW stars appearing on the upcoming season include:

  • CM Punk
  • Bryan Danielson
  • Britt Baker
  • MJF
  • Christian Cage
  • Powerhouse Hobbs
  • Ruby Soho

Other celebrity guests appearing on this season include Zoey Deschanel (New Girl), Simu Liu (Shang-Chi), and Sydney Sweeney (The Handmaid’s Tale).

Carpool Karaoke: The Series’ fifth season will premiere on May 27.

Watch the Carpool Karaoke season 5 trailer here:

AEW’s burst into the mainstream

Nyla Rose Co-Writing New X-Men Comic on Thunderbird
AEW’s Nyla Rose teamed with MARVEL recently to co-write Giant-Size X-Men: Thunderbird #1.

While it’s not uncommon to see WWE Superstars and personalities appear on late-night interviews or other non-WWE programming, AEW has made a big splash in a relatively short amount of time.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Orange Cassidy, Chuck Taylor, and Kris Statlander will appear on the upcoming season of Netflix’s ‘Floor is Lava.’

The show features contestants trying to cross an obstacle course without falling into the ‘lava’ underneath.

AEW isn’t just making their presence felt in programming, as former Women’s World Champion Nyla Rose recently teamed with MARVEL, co-writing the ‘Giant-Size X-Men: Thunderbird #1 which hit shelves this month.

Malcolm Bivens Appears To Be AEW Bound

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Malcolm Bivens is no longer in WWE but he isn’t done with the wrestling business.

In a new report from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it was said that Bivens is believed to have turned down a contract extension with WWE because he wanted to make the jump to AEW.

It looks like that’s what indeed will happen. The belief is that Bivens will ultimately sign with AEW once his noncompete clause expires.

WWE released Bivens after he declined the extension.

NXT creative was reportedly blindsided by the departure. Malcolm Bivens took to one of his comedy shows in New York City to reveal the truth about his WWE exit (via POST Wrestling).

“All right, so here’s the truth: There’s a lot of rumors, a lot of speculation. Was I offered a contract in February? Yes. Did I say no to said contract? Yes. Was I offered to be with Omos? No. No one said a word to me about managing Omos.

“Was I told about the main roster? Yes, and people, they think I’m crazy. Like, ‘Malcolm, you threw away millions potentially, you walked away.’ Yeah, I did, because I didn’t wanna do it anymore and unfortunately, I wasn’t happy.”

It looks like he thinks he’ll find that happiness in AEW. The good news for Bivens is that he can continue doing comedy shows, perhaps on a larger scale, while still working for AEW.

Prior to his WWE run, Bivens was a manager for ROH and MLW. He also made appearances on the indies. He used his real name, Stokely Hathaway.

Tessa Blanchard Likely Done With WOW

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Tessa Blanchard may have just burned yet another bridge.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter is reporting that the belief is that Tessa Blanchard’s time with WOW has come to an end. The report notes that this isn’t a confirmation but that’s the feeling at this time.

Heat On Tessa … Again

The news comes off the heels of reported backlash after Tessa “tore apart” Samantha Sage during a promo class in April. Fightful had the initial report.

It was also said that Tessa Blanchard was removed from her role heading the workshop classes and that Selina Majors has taken her place.

Also in the Fightful report, a source implied that Tessa will only be able to find work in Mexico going forward. On top of that, a former WOW star was under the impression that Tessa was done with the company.

Tessa seemed to fan the flames when taking to social media to share a post with the following quote:

“When standing up for your beliefs becomes a matter of great inconvenience, will you stand anyway?”

Problematic Behavior

This isn’t the first time Tessa has been on the outs with someone. She had a nasty split from IMPACT Wrestling back in 2020. It was reported that Tessa agreed to record videos for an IMPACT taping but she never did.

At the time, Tessa was IMPACT’s world champion. There was a claim that Blanchard refused to send the title back but her camp denied that accusation.

Speaking of accusations, Tessa was accused of hurling a racial slur toward La Rosa Negra back in 2017 during a show in Japan. Several notable wrestlers have backed La Rosa Negra on this claim including Allysin Kay and AEW star Rebel.

Tessa has also been accused of bullying by the likes of IMPACT star Chelsea Green. Blanchard has denied the accusations of racism and bullying.

Matt Hardy Urges Fans To See Him & Jeff Perform Live Before It’s Too Late

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Matt Hardy doesn’t know how much time he and his brother have left in the ring.

The Hardys are one of the most iconic tag teams in the history of the business. Before The Young Bucks, Matt and Jeff took the wrestling world by storm as the brothers with tremendous in-ring chemistry.

The two also found singles success as well. They are back teaming together again but perhaps on borrowed time.

Time Running Out On The Hardys?

The Hardys
(via AEW)

During an edition of The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy, Matt told fans that if they want to see him and his brother perform live they should do so as soon as possible (h/t Wrestling Inc).

“Jeff loves it here in AEW and we think this is going to be where we end our in-ring careers, here in AEW. We do want to go around the indie scene and work as many things as we can.

“We want to cement our legacy as one of the greatest tag teams ever.

“That’s very important to us and when we say final run, we’re assuming as a tag team that we are going to wrestle out the rest of our careers here at AEW and also do some indies and stuff. I don’t know how long this is going to last.

“Hopefully, it lasts for a while, but it’s also motivation that if we’re going to be in your town at some local promotion, a territory, it’s a good opportunity to come out and see us because I don’t know how many more of these we’re going to do.

“We’re going to do as many as we can until we can’t do anymore.”

Matt made his AEW debut back in March 2020. At the time, Jeff was still under contract with WWE. After being released by WWE over a house show incident, Jeff made his way to AEW earlier this year.

Jeff made the save after Matt was attacked by the AFO. The two have been teaming ever since and many feel dream matches are being made as soon as possible given that time may be running out on the stellar careers of both men.

MJF Says Ex-WWE Stars Who Join AEW Can “Go To Hell”

Thomas Lowson
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MJF isn’t holding back with his latest comments about former WWE Superstars who have come to AEW.

While the All-Elite promotion is home to several ex-Superstars, including Adam Cole, Malakai Black, Bryan Danielson, and more, MJF worked for CZW and MLW before signing with Tony Khan in January 2019.

 Sitting down with Brandon Walker on Rasllin’ MJF said that the company is “inaccurate” for giving high-profile contracts to ex-WWE talent.

“All these f***ing ex-WWE guys that are making an absurd amount of money when, quite frankly, they can’t sniff my f***ing jock [strap] when it comes to the ratings I pull in whenever I’m on screen, I think they can all go to hell. Somebody in the upper management has a problem with me and it’s very obvious if you see what I’m dealing with week to week.”

“They can’t sniff my f***ing jock [strap] when it comes to the ratings I pull in whenever I’m on screen, I think they can all go to hell.

MJF

When asked about Shawn Spears, an ex-WWE Superstar who now works with MJF in the Pinnacle, the Salt of the Earth said he’d be treated differently in WWE than the former Tye Dillinger.

“When I go over there, I’m not gonna have to deal with the same type of bulls**t that poor Shawn Spears had to deal with.”

MJF

Will MJF jump ship?

WATCH MJF's WWE Tough Enough Audition Video From 2015
A young MJF tried out for the 2015 season of WWE Tough Enough, with his application video still available to watch on WWE’s official YouTube channel.

MJF may be one of AEW’s most prominently featured stars, but the relationship between him and Tony Khan is reportedly strained.

The Salt of the Earth has made no secret that his AEW contract expires in January 2024 and has openly discussed jumping to WWE.

Last December, it was reported that WWE’s television partners are “very interested” in MJF and Wardlow, and the company is expected to make an offer when given the chance.

Thank you to Fightful for the quotes.

DDP Says Tammy Sytch “Was on the Right Path” Before Recent Arrest

Thomas Lowson
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WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page has said that Tammy Sytch had been doing well prior to her recent arrest.

Sytch was arrested earlier this month and charged with nine felonies, including DUI Manslaughter, related to her role in a three-vehicle car accident in March that killed one man.

Speaking on the latest episode of ‘The Bro Show,’ Page said that Sytch had looked “great” when they met up four months ago:

“She’s been sober for long periods of time. She had been on the right path. I don’t know what the trick here is, but I feel so bad. I saw her, God she looked great.”

Diamond Dallas Page

Page called Sytch’s relapse and recent run-in with the law a “really unfortunate situation.”

The former WCW World Heavyweight Champion has spent years helping others, including Jake ‘the Snake’ Roberts and the late-Scott Hall.

Sytch and the Hall of Fame

WWE Hall Of Fame 2011 - Shawn Michaels Photo (20760370) - Fanpop
Sytch was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in April 2011, the night before WrestleMania 27.

Tammy Sytch was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011, alongside legends such as Shawn Michaels, the Road Warriors, and Hacksaw Jim Duggan.

With this most recent arrest, there have been calls for her to have her Hall of Fame induction revoked with Mark Henry and Bill DeMott both saying it should happen.

WWE revoked Hulk Hogan’s induction in 2015 after racist comments made by the Hulkster were shared online, but reinstated him into the Hall of Fame three years later.

Sytch has fired back at claims for her to be removed, referencing DeMott’s controversial departure from his role as WWE head trainer.

Thanks to Sportskeeda for the quotes.

Killer Kross on Not Appearing at ROH Supercard of Honor

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Killer Kross has reflected on not making an appearance at ROH Supercard of Honor.

When ROH underwent a “reconceptualization” period, many were skeptical of the future of the promotion. The company announced it would be releasing all of its talent but was aiming for a return in the spring.

The wrestling world was turned upside down when AEW President Tony Khan announced he was purchasing ROH. This caught many off guard including someone who was trying to get Killer Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux on the Supercard of Honor show.

Killer Kross On What Went Wrong

Killer Kross was expecting to be featured on the Supercard of Honor show before Tony Khan made the deal. This gave some the impression that Khan blocked Kross and Scarlett from appearing.

As it turns out, Kross may have simply been the victim of many moving parts. He told Wrestling Inc that the person who was trying to get him on the show lost his job due to the acquisition.

“I was like, ‘I don’t know how we’re going to keep this quiet,’ we were really pumped about this, it’s going to be awesome. She might be able to revisit some stuff from Ring Of Honor that she previously did,” he said. “We can do something new, so, all of these ideas are coming to light.

“Then it was announced on TV that Tony Khan had bought Ring Of Honor. So, I hit my correspondent back, and I was like, ‘what the f*ck is going on here?’

“He’s like, ‘I have no idea,’ and then a little bit of time went on, and then we began to find out through my other friends in the company, who didn’t even know. Because we were fading them too, not like we thought they’d maliciously stooge it off, we just didn’t want it to leak. We are very old school, we don’t tell anybody what is going on.

“So, what happened was everybody lost their jobs, or they were out of jobs. They didn’t have work anymore at Ring Of Honor.”

Kross said at that point, it wouldn’t have been right to keep asking the person about his appearance.

“At that point, on a humane level, there was no way I could continue talking to this person. I felt bad for that person on the phone. Like, here is this person that was offering us work, and then they’re not there anymore.

“My heart was broken for them, I was like, I don’t think this is something, just on a human level, that we should continue pursuing. I guess, that’s just basically what happened, it was kind of like sad actually. I felt bad, I didn’t pursue it beyond that.”

During the Supercard of Honor media scrum, Tony Khan dismissed the notion that he didn’t want Kross and Scarlett on the show. He insisted that the two weren’t booked when he took over ROH and that he actually likes them.

MJF Would Be Nuts To Re-Sign With AEW Before Letting WWE Make an Offer

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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MJF knows he’s going to be in high demand in the near future and he’d be foolish not to weigh his options.

The young AEW star will see his current contract end in 2024. While many believe that MJF could be primed to be a main event player for AEW for several years to come, the Plainview native hasn’t been shy in entertaining an offer from WWE when the time is right.

It’s also been reported that perhaps things haven’t been as rosy between MJF and AEW President Tony Khan lately. Back in March, Maxwell had an interview with Ariel Helwani that apparently wasn’t cleared by AEW beforehand, leaving Khan upset.

A report from Fightful claims that the relationship between wrestling’s hottest prospect and the AEW boss has soured a bit since then. It’s important to note that MJF has built the reputation of being a top-notch heel worker.

The lines have been blurred ever since MJF started publicly talking about his contract situation. While reports have surfaced about MJF being unhappy, nothing has changed in terms of any negotiations.

He knows his contract is up in 2024 and continues to be featured prominently on AEW programming.

At the end of the day, Tony Khan would be remiss to not give MJF a massive offer when it’s time to renegotiate. On the flip side, WWE must do their due diligence and make MJF a substantial offer to get one over on the competition.

With so much momentum built up already, MJF isn’t likely to re-up with AEW before he’s able to test the market. Letting WWE know he’d be all ears way ahead of time is a good way to keep his name in the minds of those in Vince McMahon’s circle.

Kota Ibushi May Be Done With NJPW

Thomas Lowson
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Kota Ibushi could be on his way out of New Japan Pro Wrestling following a series of tweets in which he expressed his displeasure with the company.

On Twitter, Ibushi has said that unfair treatment is just part of the problem with New Japan at the moment.

In a series of screenshots of messages between himself and Kikuchi, a New Japan booker seemingly threatens to fire Ibushi.

During the latest Wrestling Observer Live, Bryan Alverez said that a source close to the situation believes Ibushi will be gone from the company soon after publicly revealing info regarding NJPW business.

“The exact wording I was told is, ‘he’s burned his bridges.'”

Bryan Alverez.

Alverez added that this could have major ramifications for Ibushi and that other promotions in Japan may be hesitant to work with him.

“The culture of Japan is you don’t do stuff like this… There’s kind of this feeling that he may be done.”

Bryan Alverez

On the most recent Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that Ibushi had not been fired yet, and Gedo had been trying to “save the deal” with the inaugural IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.

Ibushi in the United States

WWE Cruiserweight Classic Results - 8/10/16 (Second round kicks off with Kota Ibushi vs. Cedric Alexander) - WWE News, WWE Results, AEW News, AEW Results
Kota Ibushi had a brief run in WWE in 2016 as part of the Cruiserweight Classic.

If Ibushi’s actions have cost him work in Japan, then the 39-year-old wrestler may take his talents to the U.S.

In 2016, Ibushi briefly worked with WWE, competing in the Cruiserweight Classic but was eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual winner T.J. Perkins.

With WWE ending their Cruiserweight Championship division, a role in WWE may seem unlikely for Ibushi, who could join his former tag-team partner Kenny Omega in AEW.

This too has its problems, as AEW and New Japan will be working closely together ahead of the Forbidden Door event on June 26, and signing Ibushi could possibly strain this relationship.

Young Rock Renewed For Third Season On NBC

Rayan Sayyed
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“Young Rock” has received a third season on NBC. The sitcom is co-created by Dwayne Johnson and Nahnatchka Khan and showcases different periods of Johnson’s life.

The show takes place in different timelines showing Johnson growing up in a family full of professional wrestlers, his struggles in high school, and his time playing football at the University of Miami.

Variety reported that NBC has renewed “Young Rock” for a third season after the two seasons received praise from viewers.

The second season of “Young Rock” is currently airing. The show stars Johnson himself, Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui, and Matthew Willig.

The series’ plot focuses on how Johnson made it big in the wrestling industry, as well as a future prediction of him running for the President of the United States.

Khan and Jeff Chiang created the show and executive produce along with Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia, and Brian Gewirtz.

Universal Television, Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions, and Nahnatchka Khan’s Fierce Baby Productions are producing the show.

Booker T Says Tammy Sytch Shouldn’t Be Removed From WWE Hall of Fame

Thomas Lowson
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Should Tammy Sytch (Sunny) be removed from the WWE Hall of Fame in light of her ongoing legal troubles?

Last week, Sytch was charged with DUI Manslaughter, driving with an expired license, and seven counts of DUI, stemming from her three-vehicle collision back in March that killed a man.

There have been calls for Sytch, a 2011 WWE Hall of Fame inductee, to have her honor revoked. WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry and former NXT head trainer Bill DeMott are both advocating for her removal.

Booker T, also a member of the Hall, says Sytch should not be removed despite the nine felony charges against her.

On the latest episode of his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker explained why he feels removing Sunny from the Hall of Fame would be pointless.

“I’m not looking for reasons to remove somebody from the WWE Hall of Fame, ok? That’s just me personally. I don’t think removing her from the WWE Hall of Fame is going to help her in any way.”

Booker T

Booker added that alcoholism is “something very difficult to kick.”

Sytch recently fired back at DeMott for his comments in a Facebook post that referenced his controversial departure from WWE.

DeMott resigned from WWE in 2015 following multiple accusations of misconduct by his students.

The case against Tammy Sytch

Ex-WWE star Tammy Sytch arrested and charged with DUI Manslaughter, could face 30 years in jail - Wrestling News
Sytch is looking at serious jail time if found guilty of the nine charges against her.

In March 2022, Sytch was driving her boyfriend’s vehicle, when it crashed into a stationary car that was waiting at a red light.

This vehicle collided with the vehicle in front, with 75-year-old Julian Lasseter, the driver of the center car, being pronounced dead later at a local hospital.

A toxicology report has revealed that Sytch was three-and-a-half times over the legal blood alcohol limit when driving the car.

Often called the first WWF Diva, Sytch could spend decades behind bars if found guilty of the charges against her.

Thanks to Inside the Ropes for the quotes

WWE Will Reveal Second ‘Next In Line’ Class in June

Rayan Sayyed
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WWE will unveil the second class of “Next In Line” program recruits this June.

The company announced that it will unveil the newest class of Next In Line recruits at the inaugural NIL summit on June 13. The class will consist of 15 athletes.

The NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) program is aimed at recruiting college athletes. Through collaborative partnerships with college athletes of diverse athletic backgrounds, the program aims to enhance the talent development process.

WWE said that the NIL Summit will take place at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

“Four of the 16 initial members of WWE’s ‘Next In Line’ program are nominated for awards including Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson (University of Minnesota) for Male Athlete of the Year, Haley & Hanna Cavinder (University of Miami) for Female Athlete of the Year and Jon Seaton (Elon University) for the Hustle Award,” the statement reads.

“We are excited to unveil our next class of NIL athletes at the inaugural NIL Summit which brings together the brightest minds across this emerging industry for the first time,” Triple H said in the statement. “WWE’s ‘Next In Line’ program has already proven to be transformational for our talent pipeline. We have forged many incredible partnerships with student athletes during the first six months of the program and look forward to ushering in the next wave of talent.”

The first class of college athletes who took part in the program also consisted of 15 members. The program included athletes who had a background in football, basketball, track and field, and wrestling. Gable Steveson was the first member of this inaugural class.

Athletes in the NIL program get access to the WWE Performance Center, as well as education on brand building, media training, live event promotion, and more. Some athletes will also receive a WWE contract after they complete the program.

Drew McIntyre Hoped To Have WrestleMania Match With Triple H

Joey Galizia
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WWE superstar Drew McIntyre says he pitched to have a matchup with Triple H at this year’s WrestleMania 38.

The Scottish Warrior revealed during an interview with TalkSport that without the Game’s assistance he would not have returned to WWE back in 2017, a run that saw McIntyre become NXT champion, Raw tag champion, a Royal Rumble winner, and a two-time WWE champion.

“He’s the reason I’m back in WWE 100 percent. My mind was set at the time when I wasn’t going to re-sign with IMPACT that I’m going to Japan.”

McIntyre later elaborates on the pitch he made to face the Cerebral Assassin at the Showcase of the Immortals, stating that it’s unfortunate he had to retire for health reasons but is happy that he’s going to be okay for his family.

“I wanted a match (with Triple H). It’s unfortunate it won’t happen but I’m just glad he’s healthy for himself and his family. I pitched (a match) at every opportunity I could. How about us at WrestleMania? ‘What’s the story?’ [Triple H said] and I’d say ‘What’s the story? We’ll figure it out, but what about you and me at WrestleMania?!’ How awesome would that be.”

This wouldn’t have been the first time this duo stood across the ring from each other, but a proper singles-matchup at this point is off the table. McIntyre does recall in the interview the few times he got to share the ring with Triple H, and what a pro he is, even calling him a general in the ring.

“It was cool to go back and forth a little bit and you understand just how good he is, what a ring general he is. You can see watching, but you don’t know until you’re in there with them just how good. Just some interactions during an 8-man tag in Japan I could tell like ‘wow, he’s really frigging good.'”

McIntyre seems to be headed towards another showdown with Roman Reigns at WWE’s upcoming Clash at the Castle pay-per-view, their first major event in the U.K. in over three decades.

MJF Thinks He’d Have a ‘Tremendous’ Match With Roman Reigns

Jon Fuentes
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MJF can see himself having a “tremendous” match with WWE Undisputed Champion Roman Reigns.

Maxwell Jacob Friedman currently competes under the AEW banner, while Reigns dominates in WWE as both the WWE Champion and Universal Champion.

Despite this, MJF tells Brandon Walker (via the Barstool Rasslin podcast) that he thinks he’d have a “tremendous” match with The Tribal Chief, if they shared the ring.

“I would imagine. I think me and him would have a tremendous match. I think it would be a friendly competition. I would also love to wrestle Seth Rollins. I would love to wrestle The Miz.”

MJF Teasing a WWE Run

A match between MJF and Reigns certainly isn’t outside of the realm of possibility. MJF has been very open about the fact that his contract with AEW is set to expire at the beginning of 2024.

In fact, he’s even gone as far as saying that he’s willing to jump ship to WWE if Vince McMahon shells out the money. For now, MJF will have to play out his contract in AEW, as he’s currently locked in a feud with Wardlow.

“Now, if/when I were to go over there, I’d have me a ball, because I built my brand and established myself here. When I go over there, I’m not gonna have to deal with the same type of bullshit that poor Shawn Spears had to deal with”

– MJF on a potential WWE run

Reigns and The Bloodline, on the other hand, continue to wreak havoc on both the RAW and SmackDown brands now that Reigns holds both World Titles.

If Reigns and MJF ever do get to cross paths in the near future, it will certainly be a match wrestling fans will be paying very close attention to.

Would you like to see MJF and Reigns share the ring one day? Sound off in the comments!

Quotes via WrestlingNewsCo

CM Punk: AEW Run Expectations Have Been ‘Shattered’

Jon Fuentes
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The expectations that CM Punk initially had for his run with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) have been “shattered.”

Punk was recently interviewed by ComicBook.com and talked about his run with the promotion since signing with them in August of last year. The former WWE Champion said that his initial expectations for how his run would play out have far exceeded what he imagined.

“This run has been more than what I expected. I had expectations. They were pretty high. So far, they’ve pretty much shattered all that, and that’s just based on analytics and numbers of how well we’re doing.

“I’ve long said that I’m there for the fans in the building. Nowadays everybody is still focused on ratings numbers when cable is absolutely — I canceled DirecTV months ago. I just, I couldn’t do it anymore. It’s too convoluted.

“It’s too expensive. Streaming services are, I feel like, are the future. So when people look at ratings and say that wrestling is dying, I say, ‘Well look at our buildings. We’re selling out and we’re doing our first million-dollar gate.’

“So I don’t attribute that just to me. I attribute that to the spirit of AEW and everybody behind the scenes that makes it all work and makes it all click.

“But the run, my run specifically, my stuff as a whole, I’ve never been happier in a wrestling ring. I’ve never, to me, been telling more fluid, better, reality-based stories. It’s been a real treat.”

Punk has competed with a plethora of notable names under the AEW banner; such as Dustin Rhodes, Darby Allin, MJF, and many more. Currently, he’s locked in a feud with AEW World Champion Hangman Page.

Initially, Punk hadn’t wrestled since leaving WWE back in 2014. It was a nasty exit where Punk publicly voiced his frustrations with WWE, which ultimately led to them firing him on his wedding day. A lawsuit soon followed after some comments made about a WWE doctor on a podcast appearance.

After dabbling in other endeavors such as mixed martial arts (MMA), acting, comic book writing, and more, CM Punk has finally returned home to professional wrestling, and is on the verge of potentially being a World Champion again.

He’ll take on Page for the AEW World Title at Double Or Nothing live on pay-per-view (PPV) from his hometown of Chicago, Illinois on May 29.

Former WWE Head Writer Announces Book Documenting His Experience

Thomas Lowson
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Former WWE head writer Brian Gewirtz has written a tell-all memoir about working for the company which will hit shelves this August.

Last December, Gewirtz announced that he was writing a book that would detail his journey to WWE and career as a writer.

On Twitter this week, Gewirtz confirmed the book’s title, ‘There’s Just One Problem,’ saying that it “documents over a decade’s worth of adventures as head writer.”

The book is now available for pre-order at Amazon.

There’s Just One Problem…

Gewirtz promises “untold stories” featuring “the biggest names and controversial moments in wrestling.”

While the book won’t be released to the public until August 16, the 288-page work has been read by some already, with Becky Lynch calling it “the best book I have read in years.”

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has praised ‘There’s Just One Problem‘ saying it is “as entertaining as the scripts Brian wrote during his amazing career.”

The book will be published ‘Twelve Books publishing’ and will be available in hardback, ebook, and audiobook.

About the Author

Brian Gewirtz joined the WWE (then WWF) in 1999 after working with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson for a segment with MTV.

It was “The Brahma Bull” who approached the then 26-year-old writer, asking if he’d ever considered a role with the wrestling promotion.

Sticking with WWE for over 15 years, Gewirtz left in 2015 to join The Rock’s production company ‘Seven Bucks Productions.’

AEW Blood & Guts Match Is Coming Back Soon (Report)

Thomas Lowson
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AEW is planning on bringing back their ‘Blood and Guts’ match soon, according to Dave Meltzer.

The ‘Blood and Guts’ match earned its name when Vince McMahon dismissed AEW, saying in 2019 that TNT will not appreciate “blood and guts” on their programming.

Back in April, Tony Khan said he expects Blood & Guts to be back this summer.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer said he does not know who will be in the match, but current storytelling suggests that the Jericho Appreciation Society will be involved.

On this week’s Dynamite, the JAS was confronted by Eddie Kingston, Santana, and Ortiz as well as all four members of the Blackpool Combat Club.

At this time, neither the JAS, the BCC nor Kingston, Santana, or Ortiz have been announced for Double or Nothing 2022.

Next week’s AEW Dynamite will see Jericho and BCC’s William Regal go face-to-face in a promo segment.

The first ‘Blood and Guts’ match

AEW Blood And Guts Ratings: AEW Wins The Night With Over 1 Million Viewers For Polarizing Match
The Pinnacle defeat The Inner Circle in the first ‘Blood and Guts’ match in May 2021.

AEW has hosted just one ‘Blood and Guts’ match so far, which was originally meant to happen in March 2020.

That show was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the first-ever ‘Blood and Guts’ event would take place over a year later in May 2021.

In the show’s main event, The Pinnacle defeated the Inner Circle in the titular match, after the Inner Circle surrendered when MJF threatened to throw Chris Jericho off the cage.

Throwing Jericho off anyway, the spot was heavily criticized as the former World Champion clearly landed on a crash pad (disguised as steel on the entrance stage).

At the time, a member of WWE management reportedly said that the ‘Blood and Guts’ match “just set the business back 30 years.”

Theory: “I’m Doing Achievements That John Cena Hasn’t”

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Theory continues to stir the pot with John Cena.

It’s no secret that WWE is high on Theory. The 24-year-old has been seen on WWE TV as Vince McMahon’s new “chosen one.”

He is the current WWE United States Champion and after he defeated Finn Balor for the gold, he was surrounded by a group of fellow heels in celebration.

Theory recently tried ruffling the feathers of Cena, saying he’s a better U.S. Champion than the “Doctor of Thuganomics” ever was.

Cena responded by saying that while Theory has talent, he better be able to back up his words.

Theory Keeps Teasing John Cena Match

During an appearance on WWE’s The Bump, Theory said he’s already reached heights that John Cena couldn’t.

“Yeah, I think the pressure is definitely applied now. It’s always been there, though for myself since I was 12 years old and I knew I wanted to be in WWE.

“I did everything that I could to get there and that’s why I’m here at such a young age. John Cena was always an inspiration but I think that right there just kinda hammered the nail down.

“It’s like the pressure’s on, and I get where he’s coming from but at the end of the day, I’m doing achievements that John Cena hasn’t. I’m the youngest United States Champion in WWE history.”

Theory went on to say that while he’s flattered by the Cena comparisons, he wants to surpass what the “Babe Ruth of WWE” accomplished.

“I have so much respect for John Cena and I like the comparisons, I appreciate them but I’m in my own lane. I’m gonna do things that John Cena’s never done.”

Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline took to Wrestling Observer Live to report that Vince McMahon sees Theory as the next John Cena. A match between the two wouldn’t exactly come as a shock and Theory has even hinted at the showdown taking place at SummerSlam.

Austin Theory Says John Cena Is HIs Inspiration, Reason Why He Got Into Wrestling

Please H/T SEScoops if you use any quotes from this article.

Jake Roberts Refutes Jim Ross’ Claim That He’s Not In Good Health

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Jake Roberts is aware of rumblings that he isn’t in good health and he has responded.

Jim Ross gave fans a scare during an episode of his Grilling JR podcast. Ross said that Jake “The Snake’s” health was “not good” but that he was taking measures to address it.

Here’s what the legendary play-by-play ace had to say (h/t WrestlingNews.co).

“I just saw him here a few weeks ago and he’s still battling his breathing issues. He’s not in great health. That’s why you don’t see him as often on AEW television as he once was when he was fronting Lance Archer.

“But his health is not good and he’s taking the means to address it. He still has surgeries left. But he has breathing issues.”

Jake Roberts Dismisses Health Claim

Jake Roberts took to his Twitter account and insisted that he’s not in bad health.

“Hey guys once again someone wants to make a splash on the internet and what better way is there than putting out Jake Roberts is in bad health. Totally untrue. I’m going to be around a long time.”

Jake has come a long way from the days when he was addicted to drugs and alcohol. Roberts was lifted back to his feet by DDP and he credits the former WCW star for saving his life.

Roberts recently revealed to SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio that he was preparing for hip surgery. He also admitted that he’ll be using an oxygen tank again from time to time. There was a point where he didn’t need it anymore but now he’s back on it.

Kurt Angle Names One WWE Star Who Has Improved As An Entertainer

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Kurt Angle has taken notice of one WWE superstar who has pushed himself beyond the in-ring work.

Angle was a tremendous wrestler but he also had the charisma to match. Angle was wildly entertaining in his backstage segments and promos in the ring. It’s what helped him become a legend in the business.

The WWE Hall of Famer believes one current member of WWE’s main roster has found his entertaining side.

Kurt Angle Vouches For Chad Gable

Chad Gable 1
(via WWE)

Taking to his own podcast, The Kurt Angle Show, the Olympic gold medalist said that Chad Gable has been able to separate himself from the pack thanks to his improvement as an entertainer (h/t Wrestling Inc).

“I do believe Chad Gable’s getting a better push, I wish he’d get pushed a little bit more. But I do believe that he is becoming more entertaining.

“I do see similarities between him and myself, and I’m really proud of the kid. He’s really come out of his shell and he’s been able to show that he has the ability to be an entertainer, not just an overall wrestler but an entertainer.

“He’s doing it, he’s succeeding.”

Angle isn’t the only one heaping praise on Gable. The Miz recently told Ryan Satin that Gable’s current character is a “money maker.”

Gable has found great success on WWE TV ever since he was paired with Otis. Together, the two are known as the “Alpha Academy.” They are former WWE Raw Tag Team Champions.

At the moment, Gable and Otis have found themselves in the good graces of Kevin Owens. All three have aligned in an attempt to prove that Ezekiel is actually Elias.

Tony Khan Responds to Criticism of AEW Using Too Much Blood

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AEW President Tony Khan has defended the company’s use of blood by saying that his media partners have no problem with it.

While WWE has a no-blood policy, AEW allows for the use of blood with Britt Baker Vs. Thunder Rosa from the March 17, 2021, Dynamite and Kenny Omega vs. Jon Moxley from AEW Revolution 2021 being two of their bloodiest bouts.

This has led to criticism, with Vince McMahon saying in 2019 that TNT will not tolerate “blood and guts” on their programming.

After AEW used the “blood and guts” term for their May 2021 show, a member of WWE management claimed that the show’s main event “just set the business back 30 years.”

Addressing the critics this week in an interview with News 12 Long Island, Khan said that bloody matches have generally been well-received (h/t Fightful).

“It’s certainly not every week, you don’t see it on a weekly basis… For the most part, you see a focus on the in-ring action, but every once and a while, when things have gotten out of hand, it’s been old-school pro wrestling in a way that has been very healthy and has been well-received by our media partners and fans.“

WWE’s History With Blood

BREAKING: Roman Reigns leaves Brock Lesnar imbrued at the Madison Square Garden » FirstSportz
Brock Lesnar was busted open by Roman Reigns at a March 2022 WWE Live event inside Madison Square Garden.

While WWE is staunchly against the use of blood, some of the company’s most iconic moments have featured blading.

In 2008, WWE scrapped blood as part of their newly introduced PG rating but has used blood sparingly ever since.

At their most recent event in Madison Square Garden, Brock Lesnar was busted open by Roman Reigns in the build to their WrestleMania 38 title-unification match.

Tammy Sytch Still Won’t Take Responsibility, Blasts Hall of Fame Removal Calls

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Tammy Sytch continues to go on a rampage against those who are holding her accountable for her alleged actions.

Sytch has had a slew of legal issues but things are far more serious this go-around. Late last week, Sytch, formerly known as “Sunny” in WWE, was arrested in connection to a fatal three-car crash. She was booked into Volusia County Branch Jail.

Her bond was set at $227,500, which she was able to meet but prosecutors are seeking to revoke the bond. Sytch was hit with nine charges, the most serious one being DUI manslaughter, which is a felony in the state of Florida.

Tammy Sytch (Sunny)

Recently, Bill DeMott called for the removal of “Sunny” from the WWE Hall of Fame. He had the following to say on social media:

“When do we start holding people accountable BEFORE they kill themselves or someone else? When do we decide as lawmakers and judges that we DO NOT get to decide who should and shouldn’t be punished? When do organizations speak up for EVERYONE not just influential cases?”

This enraged Tammy Sytch, who took to her Twitter page to unleash a rant toward DeMott.

“I think Bill Demott should be removed from the WWE hall of fame! Ohhh that’s rite, he was never inducted. He was too busy sexually harassing female talent and degrading male talent as well. Yet he is worried about a crime that has NOT even been proven in a court of law yet??”

Sytch has been lashing out at those who have called for her to be locked up for many years. It’s clear that she refuses to take responsibility and isn’t keen on making changes in her life.

If Sytch is convicted of DUI manslaughter, she could be facing up to 30 years in prison.

Roman Reigns Not Scheduled to Work Hell in a Cell 2022

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Roman Reigns is not scheduled to compete at Hell in a Cell, WWE’s next premium live event.

The reigning Undisputed WWE Universal Champion recently signed a new deal with the company. Reigns will work a lighter schedule, including fewer live events.

Reigns was a late addition to the WrestleMania Backlash card, which took place this past weekend. On the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said the upcoming Hell in the Cell show is the first example of Reigns getting more time off in the coming months.

“He’s off the Chicago show, which is the next pay-per-view on June 5.”

Dave Meltzer

“Roman Reigns is not gonna be on every pay-per-view. He’s off the Chicago show, which is the next pay-per-view on June 5 (Hell in a Cell.) He will be doing pay-per-views this summer.

“He’s not gonna be doing a lot of dates and from what I understand, the shows he’s gonna be on, sooner or later, they’ll start advertising him. So the dates will be known, it’s not like they’re gonna put him on TV without advertising him.”

Reigns has been removed from thr Hell in a Cell promotional artwork, which backs up this report.

Hell in a Cell

Meltzer said that while Reigns will be on more shows than Brock Lesnar, it is “not appreciably more.” WWE Hell in a Cell 2022 will take place at the Allstate Arena, in Rosemont, Illinois.

The Tribal Chief’s new contract

WWE SmackDown Preview: Roman Reigns' big plan for contract signing, top champion set to return (March 12th, 2021)
Reigns’ new lucrative deal with WWE will see him work fewer dates and has been compared to Brock Lesnar’s contract.

Speculation about Reigns’ future began last week when he appeared at a WWE Live event in Trenton, New Jersey, and told fans “I honestly don’t know if I’ll be back here again.”

Though many saw this as Reigns teasing retirement or an extended hiatus, it was later reported that he has signed a new contract which will see him work fewer dates.

Reigns is still being promoted for WWE stadium events, including Money in the Bank and Summerslam, but has no TV appearances confirmed past June.

Quotes via WrestleTalk

See What Happened With CM Punk After AEW Dynamite

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CM Punk was attacked by rising AEW star HOOK after the May 11, edition of Dynamite went off the air.

The post-show segment started with Punk being confronted by Danhausen, and after coming face-to-face with HOOK, begged for a handshake which the second-generation wrestler obliged.

As seen in the videos, HOOK would hit a T-Bone Suplex on Punk before applying the Redrum submission to send the fans home happy.

Earlier in the night, Punk had played up being a heel for his match with hometown wrestler John Silver, as the show was taped in Long Island, New York.

Punk will challenge AEW World Champion ‘Hangman’ Adam Page at AEW Double or Nothing 2022, which will take place on May 29, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Arrival of Hookhausen

Last night’s Dynamite also saw the in-ring debut of Danhausen who has been trying to win over HOOK since joining AEW.

Thanks to a sucker punch from Smart Mark Sterling, Danhausen was pinned by Tony Nese in a matter of seconds and suffered a post-match beatdown which ended when HOOK arrived.

Squaring up with Danhausen in the ring, the two finally shook hands, earning a massive pop from the crowd in Long Island.

Drew McIntyre Says WWE Should Bring Back Classic Championship

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WWE superstar Drew McIntyre has called on the company to bring back a classic championship to fulfill his childhood dream of winning the title.

This past March marked the 25th anniversary of the European Title’s debut, and this July will mark 20 years since the title was retired by WWE.

While speaking with Alex McCarthy of TalkSPORT, McIntyre made his plans clear to win the European Championship.

“When I was a kid and I saw it I was like ‘ah man, I want to be European Champion’ and now I can’t because it doesn’t exist right now. I don’t like too many titles and there are a lot right now, but I just wanted it when I was a kid. So just bring it back, let me win it and then I’ll retire it. You never want too many titles in the company because then it’s not as special. I think where we’re at right now is good, but give ol’ Drew the European title for young Drew.”

“Just bring it back, let me win it and then I’ll retire it.

Drew McIntyre

The European Championship

Every WWE Championship And The Superstar That Defined It – Page 21
The first-ever European Champion, “The British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith was one of just two European wrestlers to hold the title.

The European Championship debuted in 1997 and was first held by “The British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith, who defeated Owen Hart in the finals of a tournament in Berlin, Germany.

A total of 27 champions held the title across 37 reigns, with Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Chris Jericho, Jeff Hardy, and Eddie Guerrero all holding the title.

The European Championship was retired in 2002 when it was unified with the Intercontinental Championship, making Rob Van Dam the final European Champion.

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