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Tony Khan Continues Hyping AEW’s “Huge” Forbidden Door Signing

Chris Stephens
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Tony Khan has promised a “huge signing” to debut on AEW Dynamite this week. The new signing will also take on Isiah Kassidy in a Face of the Revolution Ladder Qualifying match.

Khan spoke to Sports Illustrated about the signing and doubled-down on the hype.

“It’s a huge signing for us,” said Khan. “I have created some debate about what it means to open the ‘Forbidden Door’ and that’s what we are going to do on this show. The fans are going to get a great night of wrestling, and I hope everyone is surprised—and comes back for the matches this sets up.”

The Element of Surprise

Tony Khan also spoke about the importance of keeping his roster fresh during the interview.

“I’m continually looking to improve the roster and bring in new stars and create fresh matchups, and that’s what you’re going to see this Wednesday,” Khan continued. “We now have such a strong roster of wrestlers under contract that we can put fresh, exciting matches on Dynamite every Wednesday on TBS and Rampage on TNT.”

Fresh Match-Ups

Khan continued to tease the new signing and the impact they will have on AEW programming.

“It’s going to be a big reveal on Dynamite. It sets up this week’s Rampage and puts a lot of irons in our fire. We have created an environment in AEW where people routinely expect great wrestling matches, and we have the wrestlers to live up to those high expectations.”

Dynamite & Rampage Previews

Forbidden Door Signing

AEW will present Dynamite this week from the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The venue hosted WrestleMania’s IV and V. The following matches are booked for the show:

  • AEW World Championship
    Texas Death Match
    Adam “Hangman” Page (c) vs Lance Archer
  • Face of the Revolution Qualifying Match
    Isiah Kassidy vs TBA

Chris Jericho will also an Inner Circle meeting on the show.

Then Rampage will be taped following the live edition of Dynamite. Matches booked for that show include:

  • AEW World Tag Team Championships
    Jurassic Express (Jungle Boy & Luchasaurus) (w/Christian Cage) (c) vs. The Gunn Club (Austin Gunn & Colten Gunn) (w/Billy Gunn)
  • Hook vs Blake Li 

Ronda Rousey Says She Takes Trash-Talking From Fans Personally

Chris Stephens
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Ronda Rousey recently spoke on why she sometimes takes trash-talking from fans personally. Comments by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio suggested that Rousey is bitter towards the fans for having turned on her previously in WWE.

Rousey stated on her Facebook gaming stream that even though she is playing a character on television, she’s still Ronda Rousey and it’s hard not to take some comments personally.

“It’s hard not to take [trash talk] personally from the fans because I don’t go out there as — I mean I do go out there as a character, but I am also actually Ronda Rousey, so I don’t play Ronda Rousey on television. So sometimes I take it personally from the fans, not so much from the wrestlers. The fans, I do,” she said.

Rousey also commented on why she is wearing different gear than she did during her first run with the company. She said that after having had a baby only four months ago, she’s not ready to wear her old gear just yet.

“Well, I just had a baby four months ago and I didn’t really feel confident enough to don my regular wrestling gear yet but I’m working towards it… because you know, it’s hard when you’re coming back and being judged directly to how you looked three years ago,” Rousey said.

Rousey also spoke about wanting to team with Shayna Baszler now that she’s back and Baszler is on the main roster. She is scheduled to team against Baszler at a Laval house show next month. Rousey is booked to team with Sasha Banks to go up against Charlotte Flair and Baszler.

H/T To Post Wrestling for the above transcriptions.

The Boogeyman Signs New Contract With WWE

Chris Stephens
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The Boogeyman, Marty Wright, recently posted a video to social media of him signing a new contract with WWE. It is not clear what type of deal he has signed with the company, although it is most likely a legends deal similar to what many WWE alumni are under.

His post announcing the news is below:

https://twitter.com/realboogey/status/1490768948593410050

Boogeyman also posted the below video with the hashtag #WWELegend. Someone evidently decided to let the him hold their 1-week old child while he was in “full gear”.

https://twitter.com/realboogey/status/1490484019762446342

Boogeyman performed over the weekend at an ACW event in Maryland.

The Boogeyman In WWE

Marty Wright got his start with WWE in 2004 after a notable audition for the Tough Enough contest. At the time, Boogeyman was 40 years old but he told officials he was only 30. The cut-off to enter the contest was 35. He was later called out on this by Al Snow and dropped from the contest. WWE would decide to give him a chance following this, however. He began training at OVW in early 2005 and Vignettes promoting the debut of the Boogeyman in WWE would begin airing later that year.

In 2006, Boogeyman was awarded the Rookie of the Year Award by Pro Wrestling Illustrated. The same award was won by Jade Cargill for 2021.

Nick Gage Signs Multi-Year Contract With GCW

Chris Stephens
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Nick Gage has officially signed with Game Changer Wrestling. The promotion does not normally contract talent but an exception was made for Gage. GCW owner Brett Lauderdale took to social media recently to announce the news.

“This is the first & likely the last contract GCW will ever offer. Nick has earned the right to finish his career on his terms w/ dignity & a focus on the future he deserves. I’m proud GCW can give him that. For the hard work, sacrifice & loyalty over 23+ years, MDK ALL FN DAY!” Lauderdale posted to Twitter.

Gage won the GCW World Tag Team Championships along with Matt Tremont at the WRLD on GCW PPV from The Hammerstein Ballroom.

Coming Up In Game Changer Wrestling

The following matches have been booked for upcoming GCW events.

2/19 from Atlantic City – GCW Believe Me

  • Matt Tremont vs. Hoodfoot
  • Mascara Dorada vs. Joey Janela
  • Atticus Cogar vs. Allie Katch
  • The Briscoes (Jay Briscoe & Mark Briscoe) vs. The SAT (Joel Maximo & Jose Maximo)
  • John Wayne Murdoch vs. G-Raver
  • GCW Ultraviolent Championship
    Alex Colon (c) vs. Reed Bentley

2/20 from Atlantic City – GCW Don’t Tell Me What To Do

  • 2 Cold Scorpio vs. Gringo Loco
  • Atticus Cogar vs. Alex Zayne
  • Drago Kid vs. ASF
  • Joey Janela & Marko Stunt vs. The Second Gear Crew (AJ Gray & Matthew Justice)
  • GCW World Tag Team Championships
    The H8 Club (Matt Tremont & Nick Gage) (c) vs. The Rejects (John Wayne Murdoch & Reed Bentley)

Melina Wishes For One On One Match With Sasha Banks

Anutosh Bajpai
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Melina got to share only a short amount of time with Sasha Banks during her Royal Rumble return. She wishes that this encounter was actually a one-on-one match.

The former Divas champion recently shared a post on her Instagram account. She first mentioned how she got to wrestle Deonna Purrazzo and Kamille last year.

Melina then discussed her brief encounter with Sasha Banks during the women’s Royal Rumble. She mentioned how they got a huge reaction from the crowd:

“I wish that moment with Sasha was a singles match. To think if we were able to get a reaction like we did that night without wrestling… Can you imagine what we could do if we actually wrestled?!!!”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZsRg2KPayq/

Sasha Banks entered the women’s Royal Rumble match at #1. A returning Melina followed her at #2, though she was eliminated by the boss in less than a minute.

The female star has been active in the independent circuit in recent times. She has wrestled matches for promotions such as NWA and Impact Wrestling in the past year.

We have seen people like MVP and Rey Mysterio getting back into the WWE fold after making a Royal Rumble return. It will be interesting to see if Melina is brought back by the company for more appearances in the future.

Melina Gets Emotional About WWE Royal Rumble Return

Matt Hardy Reveals Why Jeff Hardy Turned Down WWE HOF Induction

Anutosh Bajpai
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Jeff Hardy recently turned down WWE’s offer to be part of the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022. Matt Hardy continues to speak about Jeff’s situation on Twitch and addressed Jeff’s decision during his latest live stream.

The Hardy Family Office leader stated once again that Jeff’s final drug test with WWE came back clean. He also explained why Jeff had no interest in joining the WWE Hall of Fame under the terms they recently proposed to him.

According to Matt Hardy, WWE wanted Jeff to be inducted into the Hall of Fame as a solo act. Jeff had no interest in going in without Matt at his side.

Jeff Hardy WWE Champion
Jeff Hardy as WWE Champion (Photo credit: WWE)

Matt Hardy on Jeff’s Decision

“Jeff asked [WWE], ‘So you want to induct me into the Hall of Fame?’ And he said, ‘Well let me ask you, I know you guys have spoken with AEW. Is this going to be the Hardy Boyz? Is this myself and my brother Matt?’

And they go, ‘Oh, no no, no, no. We can’t get Matt. He’s under contract at AEW. You know, it would just be you.’ And Jeff said, ‘Well, that’s a hard no.'”

Matt said, “He definitely stood up for the team of the Hardy Boyz.”

Jeff Hardy’s non-compete clause with WWE is expected to expire in early March. The Hardy Boyz have been announced for a number of indie appearances after that.

Matt Hardy has also been teasing an ‘extreme’ change to his AEW character. The potential matches they could have in Tony Khan’s promotion have fans excited.

Would you like to see The Hardy Boyz reunion in AEW? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section

Matt Hardy On What He Would Like To Do After His Retirement

H/T Transcription: WrestlingInc

Bron Breakker Is Ready To Put NXT Title In Line Against Dolph Ziggler

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Bron Breakker is ready to put the NXT championship in line against Dolph Ziggler. He has put the ball in the show off’s court for a potential title match.

The current NXT champion took on his Twitter on Monday. He told the main roster star that he can come down to NXT to get a shot after Santos Escobar:

“@HEELZiggler mentioned coming to NXT and taking my title.” wrote Bron Breakker, “You want the next shot after Santos come on down. Your move #Iwillsayittoyourface”

For those who don’t know, it all started when Ziggler teased a confrontation with the NXT star in a backstage video after Monday Night Raw last week.

Bron Breakker responded to this via a tweet. He also made a Ziggler reference on the following episode of the developmental brand saying that he “doesn’t work Tuesdays.”

This prompted the former IC champion to suggest that he will take the NXT title away from the second-generation star. Now he has gotten his response.

Bron Breakker is currently scheduled to defend his belt against Santos Escobar at the NXT Vengeance Day special on February 15. We will see if Ziggler shows up to confront the current champion at the show.

Bron Breakker Comments On New Year’s Evil Entrance

AJ Styles On Fans Wanting Him To Hate Wrestlers From Other Promotions

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

In today’s age, the competition is fierce among not only the wrestling promotions but their fans as well. So much so that people want wrestlers who work for their favorite company to hate the talents of the competing organization. Though people like AJ Styles don’t agree with this sentiment and they want everyone to succeed.

The Phenomenal One recently had an interview with Ryan Satin for his Out Of Character podcast. They discussed how WWE brought Mickie James for Royal Rumble. When asked which stars he would like to see come into the WWE through the forbidden door, AJ took the name of The Good Brothers:

“Gallows and Anderson. Because you know they’re my boys. I enjoy being around them. It’d be fun. No matter where you work, we still are all friends and people want us to hate each other so much it’s crazy. There’s so many other guys and girls that we’d love to see back in WWE just for a moment.”

AJ Styles Wants Non-WWE Talents To Succeed

AJ Styles is friends with many non WWE talents

The former world champion was then asked about this notion from the fans that stars from one company should hate the competitors from a different promotion. AJ Styles said that while he understands why the fans want it, he genuinely want people from other promotions to succeed. He explained that a lot of them are his friends and competition is good for everyone:

“I mean, I get it because they don’t like WWE or they don’t like the other competitors. They want it to be like that. The truth is, my best friends work in, you know, AEW or Impact Wrestling. I genuinely love the guys. So we want to see them succeed. We want [them] to do well. We both know that competition is good for everyone. So we want to see everyone succeed.

Even as a performer, you should want to kick you know, whoever is in your top slot’s butt, because that reflects on you. You’re doing well if you’re doing that, that’s not a bad thing. That’s a good thing. It makes everybody turn your game up a little bit more. Freaking have a little bit more fun.”

If you use any quotes from the article please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription.

This article has been edited for clarity

AJ Styles Doubles Down On Wanting To Face Edge At WrestleMania

AJ Styles On His Experience Of Dealing With Mr McMahon

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

There are a lot of superstars who have had unpleasant experiences with WWE and Vince McMahon. However, AJ Styles is not one of them.

The Phenomenal One recently had an interview with WrestlingInc. He discussed being scared that nobody would know him before his Royal Rumble debut and more.

Speaking of the boss, Styles mentioned how he had heard a lot of negative stories about Mr McMahon before joining WWE, but they get along great:

“I love it, so many things I had heard about him in the past, and then I go and meet this man, and we get along great. It’s one of those things if you go up to him and you’re honest, and you’re professional, you have no problems.”

AJ Styles also discussed the belief that all WWE stars have to memorize the promos given to them word for word. He claimed that it’s not the case with him and he makes changes based on his character:

“There’s a lot of things being said about that, and I’ll just make sure everybody knows the facts. I don’t say it word for word. I do not do it.”

After being part of a tag team with Omos for the majority of 2021, AJ Styles has broken up with the giant. He is now a singles competitor again and is rooting for a match with Edge at WrestleMania.

Goldberg Provides Hint On Wrestling Future After Elimination Chamber

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Goldberg has been open about the fact that his upcoming Elimination Chamber match is the last match in his current WWE contract.

There have been a lot of speculation on the wrestling future of the 54-year-old after the upcoming show. Now the former Universal champion himself has provided a hint about his involvement in the business afterward.

In the Goldberg at 54 documentary the premiered on the WWE Network over the weekend, the former WCW star said that he never imagined he would get this opportunity. He is more than willing to continue to learn and be part of the industry:

“I never imagined there would still be an opportunity,” said Goldberg. “I never imagined that there would still be the desire for me to go out and do what I did when I was on top. So things change people, change and situations change.”

He added, “I may be 54 but I really am more than willing to continue to learn about this business” said Goldberg, “and as long as I have something to offer it, then, you know, I’ll still be a part of it.”

While there is no official word on how WWE management feels about possibly re-signing the former WCW star after the upcoming PPV, they have years left on their deal with the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia.

With Goldberg being one of the last big attractions left of the Attitude Era, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the company finds value in keeping him around just for the overseas events alone.

Eric Bischoff On Why Goldberg Was Difficult To Deal With

H/T Transcription: RingsideNews

WWE RAW Results (2/7): Becky Lynch & Lita, Championship Contender’s Match, Quiz Bowl

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired on the SyFy Network this week from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. Seth Rollins battled Riddle in the main event. Lita and Becky Lynch had a confrontation ahead of their RAW Women’s Championship match at WWE Elimination Chamber. In addition to the takeaways below, Alexa Bliss’ Journey Back to RAW continued on tonight’s show.

RAW Results (2/7)

  1. American Alpha def. Street Profits
  2. AJ Styles def. Damian Priest in a Championship Contender’s match
  3. Dominik def. The Miz
  4. Bianca Belair def. Nikki A.S.H.
  5. Kevin Owens def. Austin Theory
  6. Doudrop def. Liv Morgan
  7. Riddle def. Seth Rollins via DQ
  8. Seth Rollins & Kevin Owens def. RK-Bro

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

RK-Bro Won The Quiz Bowl & Earned A Shot At The Tag Titles

The Quiz Bowl between RK-Bro & RAW Tag Team Champions Alpha Academy kicked off tonight’s show. Kevin Patrick was the host for the segment. RK-Bro had to win the Quiz Bowl to earn a rematch for the tag titles.

Gable poked fun at the crowd before explaining the rules. There were a bunch of categories and RK-Bro got their first question correct about cartoons. Gable was comically angry about cartoons even being a category.

Gable got a question wrong and RK-Bro stole it to make the score 4-3. RK-Bro tied it after getting some help from the Denver crowd (the answer was John Elway. RK-Bro was asked how many grams were in an ounce and Orton suggested that he likes to smoke and correctly answered 28 grams. RK-Bro won the Quiz Bowl and will have a future rematch for the RAW Tag Team Championships

Street Profits then battled American Alpha in a non title match. Dawkins and Ford controlled the match early and isolated Gable in the ring. Otis tagged in and turned the momentum back in the champions’ favor. Otis got Montez in a Headlock but he battled to his feet. Ford tried to escape but Otis sent him to the turnbuckle. Otis connected with a Splash and then went for another one but wound up hitting the ring post. Montez hit an Enziguri and finally tagged in Angelo Dawkins.

Gable tagged in and Dawkins hit a Clothesline. Dawkins followed it up with a Suplex but Gable battled back with one of his own for a two count. Montez hit an incredible dive and posed while doing so. However, Gable rolled up Dawkins back in the ring for the pinfall victory.

Lashley Warned Lesnar Ahead Of Elimination Chamber

MVP introduced WWE Champion Bobby Lashley and he got a great reaction from his hometown crowd. MVP said that they should have a proper celebration for Lashley defeating Brock Lesnar and claimed that it should be a holiday. MVP congratulated Lesnar on winning the Royal Rumble but questioned why he was given a spot in the Elimination Chamber match. MVP added that Lashley will walk out of Elimination Chamber still the WWE Champion.

Lashley grabbed the microphone and wondered when was the last time Brock Lesnar even wrestled on RAW. Lashley said that he wants it to be down to just the two of them so he can pin Lesnar again at Elimination Chamber.

AJ Styles Pinned The United States Champion

AJ Styles faced Damian Priest this week on RAW in a Championship Contender’s match. Styles knocked Damian out of the ring and leveled him with a Phenomenal Forearm. Back in the ring, Styles went for the cover but the United States Champion kicked out at two. Priest went for the Reckoning but Styles blocked it. AJ connected with a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Damian kicked out at two. Damian connected with a kick and then a slam for a two count. AJ Styles hit a Phenomenal Forearm for the pinfall victory and earned a future shot at the US Title.

Dominik def. The Miz

Dominik & Rey Mysterio were guests on Miz TV tonight. Miz complained about getting called a cheater after last week. Miz noted that Edge and Eddie Guerrero used those same tactics in the past. The Miz complained about Rey Mysterio being on the cover of WWE 2K22 and claimed that he and Maryse should have received that honor.

Dominik told Miz to show Rey some respect and Miz responded by claiming Rey was hiding behind his son. The Miz challenged Dominik to a rematch and he accepted. Miz then noted that Dominik is so much taller than Rey and wondered if Eddie was actually his father. Dominik shoved Miz on his ass as RAW went to a break.

The Miz battled Dominik in a singles match. Rey Mysterio and Maryse were ringside for the match. Dominik had the match in control and set up for the 619 but Maryse tripped him up. The referee kicked Maryse out but didn’t catch Rey tripped Miz up during the distraction. Dominik capitalized and rolled Miz up for the pinfall victory.

Bianca Belair Picked Up A Win

Bianca Belair faced Nikki A.S.H. tonight on RAW. Belair controlled the action early and chased Nikki to the apron. Nikki tripped up Belair with the ring skirt and started unloading punches. The action returned to the ring and Nikki kept Belair on the mat before applying a Half Crab in the middle of the ring.

Belair escaped and planted Nikki with a big vertical Suplex for a two count. Nikki connected with a DDT and went for the cover but Belair powered out at two. Bianca quickly battled back and hit the KOD for the pinfall victory.

Kevin Owens def. Austin Theory

Austin Theory faced Kevin Owens tonight. Austin beat Owens down in the corner to start off the match. Owens slapped Theory in the face and Austin responded with some punches to the face. Owens battled back with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Senton.

Owens charged but Theory got out of the way and he crashed into the ring post. Owens fell out of the ring and Theory followed him. Owens bounced Austin’s face off the steel steps and hit a Senton as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Owens hit a Cannonball in the corner but couldn’t capitalize as Austin rolled out of the ring. Owens opted to hit a Frog Splash off the apron and onto Theory on the floor. Back in the ring, Owens went for the cover but Theory kicked out at two.

Austin went for ATL but Owens blocked it. Owens went for the Stunner but Theory escaped and hit a Belly to Back Suplex for a two count. Theory perched Owens up on the top turnbuckle and joined him up there. Owens hit a Death Valley Driver off the top rope for a two count. Owens went for a Swanton Bomb but Theory got his knees up. Owens hit a Superkick and followed it up with a Stunner for the pinfall victory.

Later on RAW, Owens approached Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce backstage. Owens claimed that he should be in the Elimination Chamber after defeating Austin Theory. Sonya Deville suggested that Owens would be lucky if he was a part of WrestleMania and Kevin went on a rant before walking away.

Lita Got The Better Of Becky Lynch

Lita made her way to the ring to begin the final hour of RAW and got a great reaction from the crowd. The WWE Hall of Famer will be returning to the ring to face Becky Lynch for the RAW Women’s Championship at Elimination Chamber. Lita stated that she wanted this match for a very long time and the RAW Women’s Champion quickly interrupted.

Becky wanted to explain why she initially turned Lita’s challenge down and claimed it was because she worshipped her growing up. Lynch added that there would be no Becky Lynch without Lita, but now Lita has to go. Becky was disappointed that someone she looked up to was trying to take everything from her but vowed to win because she is in the prime of her career.

Lita agreed and told Becky that she is at the top of her game right now. Lita added that Becky is the favorite in the match but she has no problem being the underdog. Lita thanked the fans for helping her along the journey to becoming a four time women’s champ. Lita told Lynch that she will be walking out of Elimination Chamber a five time champion. Becky attacked but Lita was ready for it and hit Twist of Fate. Lita followed it up with a Moonsault and posed for the crowd.

Doudrop def. Liv Morgan

Liv Morgan faced Doudrop this week on RAW. Doudrop used her size advantage and sent Liv flying out of the ring as RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Liv battled back and hit a Dropkick off the middle rope.

Morgan followed it up with an Enziguri and another Dropkick. Liv hit a springboard Oblivion but Codebreaker kicked out at two. Doudrop got Liv up in the Electric Chair and slammed her to the mat for a near fall. Liv climbed to the top turnbuckle but Doudrop tripped her up. Doudrop slammed Liv down to the mat and followed it up with a Splash for the pinfall victory.

Seth Rollins & Kevin Owens def. RK-Bro

Seth Rollins battled Riddle in this week’s main event. Rollins controlled the action early and connected with a Slingblade. The action spilled out of the ring and Rollins hit a Powerbomb that sent Riddle flying into the barricade as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Rollins hit a Double Stomp on Riddle while he was in the Tree of Woe for a near fall. Riddle connected with an overhead kick and a forearm to the face. Rollins went for a lariat but Riddle countered into an Exploder Suplex. Riddle went for a Broton but Seth got his knees up. Riddle knocked Seth to the outside and hit a ridiculous springboard Floating Bro. Kevin Owens then attacked Riddle to end the match in a DQ.

Randy Orton’s theme hit and Orton rushed the ring. Orton hit Kevin Owens with an RKO and had a stare down with Seth Rollins. The two superstars started arguing as RAW went to a final commercial break.

Adam Pearce did his best Teddy Long impression and made this a tag team match during the break. Pearce was ringside for the main event. Rollins hit Orton with a Jawbreaker and Clotheslined him out of the ring. Riddle tagged in and knocked Seth to the outside again. Owens got the tag and unloaded a bunch of punches to Riddle’s face.

Owens followed it up with a Senton and started taunting Randy Orton. Owens hit a Moonsault off the second rope and went for the cover but Riddle kicked out at two. Kevin then took a moment to do Orton’s pose in Randy’s face before tagging Seth Rollins in.

Rollins hit a double axehandle and talked some more trash with Orton before stomping on Riddle’s hand. Riddle tried to battle back but Owens knocked him back to the mat with a Clothesline. Rollins tagged in and kept Riddle isolated in the corner. Rollins punched Orton off the apron and climbed to the top turnbuckle.

Seth went for a Frog Splash but Riddle rolled out of the way. Owens tagged in but Riddle caught him with a knee to the face. Orton and Rollins tagged in and Randy hit a series of Clotheslines. Orton planted Rollins with a Powerslam and delivered another one to Owens. Orton hit the draping DDT and fired up the crowd. Riddle tagged in and booted Seth in the back of the head. Rollins countered the RipCord Knee and planted Riddle with the Stomp for the pinfall victory. After the match, Orton hit Owens with an RKO as Rollins laughed on the entrance ramp.

Brandi Rhodes Hopes To ‘Evolve’ & Win Championship Gold In AEW

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

Brandi Rhodes has championship gold in her sights.

Brandi is the Chief Brand Officer of AEW. She’s also a regular on AEW Dynamite and Rampage. As of late, Brandi has involved herself in a feud with Dan Lambert’s group. She nearly came to blows with former UFC fighter Paige VanZant on the Feb. 2 episode of Dynamite.

Title Run For Brandi?

Brandi Rhodes spoke with Sports Illustrated this week and said she’s putting in the time and effort to improve in the ring. She wants to be good enough to hold championship gold in AEW.

“I like to continue to evolve,” said Brandi. “I was just having this conversation with my husband, and I told him I don’t think I’m ever going to reach a point where I’m not striving for more. I am very driven, and I’ve always been. That was instilled in me by my parents, and that’s who I am.

“There is a lot more I’m seeking to accomplish. I have been in the wrestling business for about 10 years, and I’ve never held a championship. I don’t want it handed to me. I want to earn it, and I’m putting in the work to do that.”

Time will tell if Brandi can eventually get to that level. Even if she is able to improve significantly inside the ring, there will likely be skeptics. As it is, some have criticized Brandi’s involvement on TV and feel many of her programs have gone nowhere.

Do you think Brandi Rhodes will eventually win a title in AEW?

Quote: Michelle McCool Gave Undertaker Peace In His Life

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

One WWE legend believes that The Undertaker has found an angel in Michelle McCool.

Undertaker and McCool married back in 2010. Taker had been in a prior marriage that ended in 2007. A good friend and fellow industry icon believes that Undertaker has changed for the better ever since being in a relationship with McCool.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FumD3wS9QTg

“Touched By An Angel”

Taking to his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T said The Undertaker has been calmer than ever.

“I think with The Undertaker, once he had that peace in his life, man, I think the rest of it has been easy for him. I don’t think I’ve seen dude as happy as he’s been over the last few years ever.

“I don’t think I’ve seen him, honestly as spiritual as I’ve seen him over these last few years because he’s been touched. He was touched by an angel and her name was Michelle McCool.

“Like I said, us grunts, us guys that’s out there in the trenches all the time, we need that soft touch to make us who we are sometimes. I think she’s the perfect match for him.”

McCool recently made a return appearance for WWE. She participated in the women’s Royal Rumble match.

The Undertaker took his last bow inside the ring at the Survivor Series event back in Nov. 2020. Booker T has said that he thinks Undertaker will want to have one last match before truly wrapping up his career.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Women’s Elimination Chamber Match Announced with Mystery Entrant

Michael Reichlin
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WWE has announced a Women’s Elimination Chamber match for the company’s next premium live event. The match has an extra layer of intrigue, because only five of the six participants will be known ahead of time.

The Women’s Elimination Chamber match will feature Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Doudrop, Rhea Ripley, Nikki A.S.H. and a mystery entrant.

Women's Elimination Chamber
Women’s Elimination Chamber match

Fans are speculating that the mystery opponent in the Women’s Chamber match could be Asuka, Bayley or Alexa Bliss.

WWE Elimination Chamber Matches

WWE Elimination Chamber logo

The following is the updated card WWE Elimination Chamber 2022:

  • WWE Championship Elimination Chamber Match: Bobby Lashley(c) vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Seth Rollins vs. AJ Styles vs. Riddle vs. Austin Theory
  • Women’s Elimination Chamber Match: Bianca Belair vs. Liv Morgan vs. Doudrop vs. Rhea Ripley vs. Nikki A.S.H. vs. TBA
  • Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Lita
  • Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Goldberg
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Madcap Moss

WWE Elimination Chamber takes place on Sunday, February 19th from Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Super Dome. The show will stream live on Peacock and the WWE Network.

Liv Morgan Is A Big Fan Of NXT 2.0 & Cora Jade

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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WWE star Liv Morgan has given her seal of approval for NXT 2.0 and one of its bright young talents.

The NXT brand has undergone a change in recent months. Gone are the days of the black and yellow logo and a focus on proven indie talent. Instead, WWE has reverted back to making NXT a developmental hub with an emphasis on younger and bigger talent.

Praise For NXT 2.0

Liv Morgan has made a name for herself on the main roster after spending three years in NXT. Speaking to TV Insider, Liv expressed her belief that NXT 2.0 is in good hands and that Cora Jade’s stock is rising.

“Love her. I think they are doing a great job at NXT. I feel they are creating stars. The same core group of girls is really trying to grow. Trying to let everyone shine and showcase everyone to see what they can do.

“It’s so important to give opportunities to other people. I love Cora. I love Amari [Miller]. Tiffany [Stratton] is funny; I think she is going to be great. She is clearly athletic, but so new. I think with more experience she is going to be great. I love Toxic Attraction, Indi [Hartwell].

“There are so many girls who are going to be amazing. Eventually, when they come to Raw and SmackDown, they will be even more amazing.”

NXT 2.0 has been a polarizing change. Most fans are in agreement that the likes of Jade and Bron Breakker have been welcome additions to the brand.

Time will tell if this change will ultimately lead to more new stars for WWE.

Latest On AEW’s Forbidden Door Signing on Wednesday’s Dynamite

Anutosh Bajpai
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A free agent signing will debut on Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite from Atlantic City. The AEW newcomer will wrestle Private Party member Isiah Kassidy in a Face of the Revolution Ladder Match qualifier.

The identity of Kassidy’s opponent is a mystery, but AEW President Tony Khan has teased this wrestler will walk through the “Forbidden Door.”

Khan noted on Twitter that the Forbidden Door competitor can come from any promotion in the world, whether that company is on good terms with AEW or not. He also teased this person could be from a company that’s “open for business” – a phrase Triple H has used about WWE on several occasions.

A number of former WWE superstars become free agents last week, so there’s no shortage of people who could show up this coming Wednesday. It could be Keith Lee, Johnny Gargano, Killer Kross or someone else entirely.

Forbidden Door Signing Update

On Sunday, Isiah Kassidy commented on his to-be-announced Forbidden Door opponent. Kassidy says, “This better not be who I think it is… Y’all gonna force me to put this dude out for good.”

He also teased that his Hardy Family Office boss Matt Hardy was ignoring him, a sign that Hardy’s priorities might be shifting beyond Private Party.

The Face Of The Revolution Ladder takes place at the upcoming AEW Revolution PPV on March 6th from Orlando, FL. The winner of the match earns the right to challenge the AEW World Champion at a future date.

Watch: Batista Featured in Super Bowl Commercial for Nissan

Michael Reichlin
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WWE legend Batista (Dave Bautista) will appear in a commercial that airs during this year’s NFL Super Bowl.

Bautista is part of a commercial spot titled “Thrill Driver” to promote the all-new Nissan Z car. He wrote on Twitter, “With this crew it’s sure to be one helluva drive!”

The star-studded cast also includes cameos from Brie Larson (“Captain Marvel”), Eugene Levy and Katherine O’hara (“Schitt’s Creek”) and Danai Gurira (“Black Panther”).

Nissan Thrill Driver
Nissan presents “Thrill Driver”

You can see Dave Bautista’s Nissan “Thrill Driver” Super Bowl ad here:

https://youtu.be/Bu56KAaIcac

Super Bowl LVI takes place this Sunday, February 13th. The Cincinnati Bengals will battle the Los Angeles Rams to determine which team wins the coveted Vince Lombardi trophy.

In another pro wrestling tie-in, the game takes place from SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California – site of next year’s WrestleMania 39 event.

Dave Bautista is not the only WWE personality who will have a presence at the Super Bowl. On Monday, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson announced he’ll make a “special pregame appearance” ahead of the big game. More on that here:

The Rock to Make Special Appearance at Super Bowl LVI

Watch: Mark Henry’s Son Jacob Wins District Wrestling Championship

Chris Stephens
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Jacob Henry, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry, has won the 6A District Heavyweight Wrestling Championship.

The World’s Strongest man posted footage of Jacob’s victory to social media.

You can see how proud Mark Henry is in this photo:

Jacob has quoted several AEW stars in recent social media posts about his victory, including Cody Rhodes and Sammy Guevara:

Jacob Henry also took inspiration from The Young Bucks by encouraging followers to check out his “New Bio!”

AEW stars Powerhouse Hobbs and Sammy Guevara took notice of Jacob Henry’s latest wrestling championship:

Jacob Henry To Follow In Father’s Footsteps

Mark Henry has noted previously that his son plans to follow in his footsteps and be a pro-wrestler. Jacob has said that even if he is a Pro Bowl level football player, he would still give it up to go into wrestling.

“If there is going to be a second-generation wrestler to come out of the Henry family, it will probably be my son Jacob, who is a superfan. He really loves wrestling and has said that he doesn’t care if he is a pro bowl player, he’s only going to play for about four or five years and then he’s going to quit playing football and start wrestling,” Mark said of his son.”

“I’m like, “Well, what if you end up being the best guy in the league?’ He’s like, ‘Well, I’m going to have to make enough money early so I can go and establish my life and I can do what I want to do, which is wrestling.’ I’m like, ‘More power to you. When you get there, hopefully, I will still be alive,’ but if I’m not here to enjoy it, I’m sure that the fans will really enjoy it.”

H/T to Fightful for the above transcriptions.

Bryan Danielson Announced for Ring of Honor Hall of Fame

Michael Reichlin
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Bryan Danielson has been announced as the next member of Ring of Honor Hall of Fame’s inaugural Class of 2022.

Danielson is considered a “founding father” of Ring of Honor. He wrestled for the promotion from its inception. He competed in the main event of the first ROH event, Era of Honor Begins. He defeated Low Ki and Christopher Daniels, setting the stage for what would be a very memorable run.

Danielson held the ROH World Championship from September 2005 to December 2006. He defended the title a record 38 times and had one of the longest ROH World title reigns in history.

Ring of Honor has referred to Danielson as “the embodiment of fighting spirit and technical wrestling excellence.”

ROH Hall of Fame

Ring of Honor recently announced the establishment of the ROH Hall of Fame.

The promotion has always emphasized excellence in professional wrestling. Many of pro wrestling’s top stars honed their skills in Ring of Honor before moving on to the bright lights of WWE, AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling.

ROH Hall of Fame
Ring of Honor Hall of Fame

The first inductees into the inaugural ROH Hall of Fame class are Jay and Mark, The Briscoe Brothers.

As announced on February 4th, “The American Dragon” Bryan Danielson is also part of the ROH Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022.

Additional inductees will be announced on February 14th and 21st.

Ring of Honor will be rolling out new content to highlight the ROH Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022. Each episode of ROH TV in February will be devoted to a Hall of Fame inductee.

There will also be weekly YouTube specials focusing on these talented athletes.

For more information, visit ROHWrestling.com.

AEW To Run Former WrestleMania Venue This Week

Michael Reichlin
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All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is headed to Atlantic City this week. The company will hold a live AEW Dynamite and Rampage taping on Wednesday, February 9th at Boardwalk Hall. Tickets go on sale Friday, December 17th at AEWTIX.com.

Opened in 1929, Boardwalk Hall has hosted countless sporting events, including WWE WrestleMania’s IV and V in 1988 and 1989.

hogan savage wrestlemania v 5 header

The historic venue was also the site of several Mike Tyson boxing fights in the late 1980’s, UFC cards and several WWE Raw and SmackDown shows.

AEW has done strong business in the north east, with impressive gates at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ and Long Island’s UBS Arena.

According to Wrestletix, AEW has sold approximately 5,000 tickets for the Atlantic City show as of February 3rd. The venue will be set up to accommodate approximately 7,000 fans.

AEW Dynamite Preview (February 9th)

AEW is advertising the following items for Wednesday’s Dynamite from Atlantic City:

  • AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page defends against Lance Archer in a Texas Death Match.
  • The Forbidden Door will open again when Isiah Kassidy battles a mystery opponent in a Face of the Revolution Qualifying Match.
  • Chris Jericho has called for an Inner Circle Team Meeting
  • We will hear from MJF following his historic victory over CM Punk last week.

The Rock to Make Special Appearance at Super Bowl LVI

Chris Stephens
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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is set to make an appearance during the pre-game festivities at Super Bowl LVI. He noted on Twitter that he finally gets to achieve his dream of being on the field for the big game.

It seems like the Rock is everywhere these days. He most recently introduced the USA Olympic Team for the Winter Games as well.

“After all these years, my football dream of standing on the SUPER BOWL field has FINALLY….come true,” the Rock wrote on Twitter. “This will historic, this will be my honor. This will be ELECTRIFYING. I’ll see you THIS SUNDAY! LFG!!!”

The Super Bowl takes place this Sunday featuring the Los Angeles Rams taking on the Cincinnati Bengals. The game will be held in Los Angeles SoFi Stadium, the same venue as WrestleMania 39. The Rock is rumored to be facing Roman Reigns on that show.

Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg (Sasha Banks’ cousin), Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar will all be performing at the Super Bowl halftime show this year.

The Rock’s Football Career

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson received a scholarship to play for the Miami Hurricanes in 1990. He played in a backup role to future NFL Hall of Famer, Warren Sapp. Miami won the National Championship with Johnson on the team in 1991. Following his time with the Hurricanes, Rock signed with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League. He was cut from the practice squad just two months into his only season, however. After that, he met with Jim Ross about signing with the WWE and the rest is history.

The Rock and his ex-wife Dany Garcia are now owners of the XFL, having purchased the league in 2020. There had been talk of a merger between the XFL and CFL but those talks did not lead to anything. The league is now planning to launch again in 2023.

Ronda Rousey “Very Bitter” About Returning To WWE (Report)

Chris Stephens
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WWE has encouraged Ronda Rousey to act less like a heel after a prickly appearance on last week’s Monday Night Raw.

After winning the 2022 Royal Rumble, Rousey expressed frustration with WWE fans by stating she “fall for” the fans reaction again. When asked about how she felt about winning the Royal Rumble, she said she’ll be going home to love her baby, because her priorities have changed.

She also said, “There was quite a reaction tonight, and you can expect me not to fall for it this time.” Some saw Rousey’s demeanor as a sign that she will be portraying a heel character in WWE, but that’s not the case.

Rousey’s hot-and-cold relationship with the WWE Universe was apparent again on last week’s Monday Night Raw. As seen below, WWE “sweetened” the crowd reaction for her promo. WWE fans on social media took notice.

Ronda Rousey’s Rocky Return to WWE

According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Rousey really is bitter towards the fans for having turned on her previously.

WWE officials reportedly asked Ronda Rousey to “let go” the fact that fans have given her mixed reactions in the past. She appeared to take this advice in stride, as we saw on Friday’s SmackDown.

“She was very, very bitter coming back, and I think that was not a good attitude to have, especially considering she’s being portrayed as a babyface,” Meltzer said.

It was also noted that Ronda is happy to be back in WWE, just not overly happy with how the fans treated her previously.

“It was explained (to Rousey) that you have to let that (fans turning on her last time) go because if you’re going to be bitter about that…” Meltzer continued. “You’re not supposed to be a heel & if you’re bitter at the fans you’re not going to be a very good babyface.”

On Friday’s SmackDown, Rousey was visibly in a better mood and acting much happier to be there. During the appearance, she revealed that she’s chosen SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair as her WrestleMania opponent.

Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte WrestleMania 38
Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair signed for WWE WrestleMania 38

Tama Tonga Sends Message To Tony Khan

Chris Stephens
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Tama Tonga sent a message to Tony Khan on Twitter that may imply he’s hoping to walk through the forbidden door. The 39-year-old last performed for NJPW on the World Tag League tour in December. He did not perform on the Wrestle Kingdom shows on January 4th, 5th, or 8th.

“Hey @TonyKhan wanna burn bridges? I love burning bridges,” Tonga wrote on Twitter.

Tama also seemingly noted that he is a free agent, although he included the hashtag #misinformation along with that post, so it’s really not clear.

Tonga has been wrestling in Impact as of late. He made his Impact in-ring debut at the tapings in Florida recently. He’s scheduled to take part in Impact’s tapings in New Orleans coming up later this month. This includes the No Surrender PPV on February 19th where the Guerrillas of Destiny are scheduled to face The Good Brothers for the Impact World Tag Team Championships. The match continues the angle between Bullet Club and Anderson & Gallows that really kick-started this summer in NJPW of USA and continued in Impact.

Fundraising For Tonga

The island of Tonga, which has produced wrestlers such as Haku, the Barbarian, Bad Luck Fale, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, and HIKULEO, wad devastated recently by a volcanic eruption. NJPW has released a “Pray for Tonga” t-shirt to raise money for the region.

Windham Rotunda Spotted at a Wedding Over The Weekend (Photos)

Anutosh Bajpai
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Windham Rotunda better known to WWE fans as Bray Wyatt has appeared online in some new photos. In the pics, he is looking trim and refreshed, compared to his WWE days.

Disney head writer Rob Fee recently got married to comedian and actor Ariana Basseri. A number of wrestling personalities were invited to their wedding ceremony,

Among the invitees was the former WWE star John Morrison. The former IC champion shared some photos from the wedding on Twitter. What’s interesting is that the pictures also featured Wyatt among others:

Bray Wyatt at Rob Fee's Wedding
Bray Wyatt at Rob Fee's Wedding
Bray Wyatt at Rob Fee's Wedding

AEW star Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MFJ) also sent out a hilarious in character wish to the newlywed couple. He wished Rob best of luck in his future endeavors.

The latest from Bray Wyatt

Bray Wyatt was surprisingly released from his WWE contract in July last year. This ended the former world champion’s 12-year-long tenure with the promotion.

The Fiend has since decided to take a break from wrestling. He is set to make his Hollywood debut with an untitled horror film that has already started shooting.

The former champion has also been announced for the WrestleCon 2022 during the WrestleMania week. It will be interesting to see if he makes his in-ring return during or before the event as well.

Ric Flair Says AEW Should Sign Bray Wyatt

Laredo Kid Has Signed With Impact Wrestling

Anutosh Bajpai
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Laredo Kid has been a regular for Impact Wrestling in recent months. He has now officially signed a contract with the promotion.

The high-flying star recently had an interview with Darren Paltrowitz. He discussed a number of things, including his desire to win the X-Division championship and more.

During the talk he also revealed that he was offered a contract with Impact and Laredo Kid confirmed that he has signed a deal with the company:

“When I see all the crazy moves they do, I try to do the same, you know? And training more [to] be there one day

And when I had the opportunity to be — to sign with IMPACT, it’s great, you know? Right now, it’s a dream to have this opportunity” said Laredo Kid, “then I’m going to find the X Division belt.”

Laredo Kid made his Impact Wrestling debut in March 2017 as part of the company’s partnership with Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. He is also the current AAA World Cruiserweight Champion.

The Luchador had a tryout with WWE in 2015 as well. He worked a tag team match with Sammy Guevara under the ring name Tony Guevara. The duo lost a SmackDown dark match to Los Matadores.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeAEGFNeF64&ab_channel=IMPACTWrestling

Thanks to Post Wrestling for the quotes

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