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Cesaro Admits Disappointment Over Royal Rumble Exclusion

Anutosh Bajpai
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One of the big reasons for the lackluster Royal Rumble this year was the exclusion of talents such as Finn Balor and Cesaro.

The Swiss Superman recently had an interview with Sports Illustrated. Among other things, he also discussed not being part of the PPV this year.

Cesaro admitted that he was disappointed on not being part of the Rumble this year. He noted how many people wanted him to win the bout:

“Yes, I was. A lot of people would have liked to see me in the Rumble, and a lot of people would have liked to see me win. That would have put me on the next path of my journey.

I saw Big E say in an interview he’d like to see me win, and that was very nice. I appreciate the support of my colleagues, but unfortunately, that did not happen.”

The Swiss superstar also discussed his WrestleMania 37 match against Seth Rollins. He picked up a victory over the visionary in this bout.

Cesaro said that it was the crowning achievement of his career for him because it was his first singles match at the grandest stage of them all and because they could do it in front of the fans.

Cesaro Speaks On Teasing Brock Lesnar Match

Jon Moxley Announces NJPW Return Date

Ryan Droste
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Jon Moxley has announced the date that he will make his long awaited return to New Japan Pro Wrestling.

The former IWGP U.S. Champion is scheduled to be part of the NJPW event in suburban Chicago, Illinois on April 16th. Moxley filmed a promo video for the promotion where it was announced he will be making his return. Tickets for that event go on sale Friday.

“When I think of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, I think of concussions. I think of swollen red chests. I think bruises and swelling,” Moxley said. “I think of sweat flying. I think of individuals digging down deep into their souls to prove who’s the best on that blue mat. The men who call themselves the best in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Shingo, Okada, and Tanahashi.”

He continued, “One thing has not changed. I am the boogeyman in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and nobody can call themselves the best as long as I am lurking in the shadows. So I will be in Chicago on April 16. New Japan Pro-Wrestling, like you always do, bring your best.”

Will Ospreay, Jeff Cobb, Yuji Nagata, Tomohiro Ishii, Jay White, Juice Robinson, David Finlay, Tom Lawlor, Jonah, Fred Rosser, and Brody King have also been announced for the event.

Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson to Team In AEW?

Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson (AEW Dynamite, February 2nd, 2022)

This past Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite saw Moxley wrestle Wheeler Yuta in the opening match of the broadcast. Moxley had originally been scheduled to face Brian Kendrick, but that match was changed after some anti-semitic statements that Kendrick made in the past came to light.

After his victory over Yuta, Bryan Danielson made an appearance in the ring with Moxley. The pair had been scheduled to face each other at Full Gear last November until Moxley entered rehab for alcohol addiction and appear to be picking up where they left off.

Danielson proposed an alliance with Moxley, with the idea sounding as if the pair would train up and coming stars who aren’t taking wrestling seriously enough. Moxley thought about the offer in the ring and Danielson told him he could answer his offer at a later date.

And don’t forget to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.

Goldberg to Challenge Roman Reigns at WWE Elimination Chamber

Ryan Droste
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Roman Reigns will reportedly be facing a Hall of Famer when WWE travels to Saudi Arabia in two weeks for Elimination Chamber.

According to a report from Fightful Select, Reigns is set to defend his Universal Championship at that show against Bill Goldberg. As fans may recall, Reigns was originally scheduled to face Goldberg at WrestleMania 36 back in 2020 until the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Reigns, a cancer survivor, decided to back out of that WrestleMania for safety reasons. Goldberg faced Braun Strowman instead.

Goldberg has been back working with WWE for several years now, but according to the Fightful report, this is believed to be the last match on his current contract. Goldberg has given different interviews in recent months where the exact date of his contract’s expiration has become muddled; he even mentioned that it went through 2023 at one point.

Obviously, plans are always subject to change at WWE, but this is the working plan as of now. With Goldberg vs. Reigns scheduled, this would be the card for Elimination Chamber so far:

  • WWE Championship Match – Elimination Chamber
    Bobby Lashley (c) vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Seth “Freakin” Rollins vs. Austin Theory vs. Riddle vs. AJ Styles
  • WWE Universal Championship Match
    Roman Reigns (c) vs. Bill Goldberg
  • WWE Raw Women’s Championship Match
    Becky Lynch (c) vs. Lita
  • WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match
    The Usos (c) vs. The Viking Raiders
Goldberg defeated Bobby Lashley at Crown Jewel
Goldberg defeated Bobby Lashley at Crown Jewel

Goldberg’s last match was a Falls Count Anywhere No Holds Barred Match against Bobby Lashley at WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia this past October. Goldberg was victorious in that bout, his third of 2021. He also lost to Bobby Lashley at SummerSlam and Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 37.

Based on the current lineup, which match at WWE Elimination Chamber are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments section below!

And don’t forget to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.

Riddle Says Roman Reigns Did Not Accept His Apology

Chris Stephens
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Riddle made some comments last year about Roman Reigns “not being a needle mover” that evidently did not sit well with the Tribal Chief. The Universal Champion does currently have a “Needle Mover” t-shirt available at WWE.com, however.

“You’re not moving needles. I’m the real stallion, RK-Bro is moving the merch, we’re moving the needle, and that’s it. I don’t want to say too much, I’m not trying to get in trouble,” Riddle said to the Bleacher Report last summer.

Riddle recently spoke with Mark Andrews and noted that he wrote an apology to Reigns for his comments. After showing Randy Orton his planned apology, however, his RK-Bro teammate decided to re-write it for him. Riddle then sent that apology off to Reigns who reportedly did not accept it.

Randy Orton Writes Riddle An Apology To Roman Reigns…Reigns Does Not Accept

According to Riddle, you should never have Randy Orton write apologies for you.

“One thing I have learned is don’t ask Randy to write an apology for you. The other day, I said some things about a gentleman that I work with. He’s on a different brand, he’s a champion, he’s a chief, one might say. I said some things he didn’t like. I told Randy, ‘I said some things, I’m pretty sure he’s not happy about it. What should I say? I should make this better.’ I sent Randy an apology that I wrote for this person. Randy looked at it and was like, ‘Nah, this is all wrong, this is what you write.’ He sent me an apology back and there was no apology at all. It was basically like, ‘My bad.’ He knows this Chief better than I do. So I sent this apology and let’s just say that he did not accept it. I was like, ‘Damnit Randy. I can never ask you to apologize for anything.’ I’ve learned, don’t ask Randy to do an apology for you,” Riddle said.

Also during this interview, Riddle noted that his team with RK-Bro was only supposed to last one night. More on that is available in the link below:

Riddle Says RK-Bro Was Only Supposed To Last One Night

RK-Bro To Face Alpha Academy In A Quiz Bowl

Riddle and Orton are scheduled to face the Alpha Academy in a Quiz Bowl Challenge next week on RAW. Orton missed this week’s RAW but is currently advertised to appear next week. He was also only in the Royal Rumble for 2 minutes and 21 seconds despite it being held in his hometown of St. Louis. Orton entered into the match at #29, teamed briefly with Riddle, and then was eliminated by Brock Lesnar.

H/T To Fightful for the above transcriptions.

Nia Jax Hurt by the Perception She’s an Unsafe Wrestler

Tyriece Simon
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Former WWE superstar Nia Jax wants fans to know that she isn’t an unsafe wrestler.

Jax appeared on the Sessions with Renee Paquette podcast on Feb. 1 to discuss her career in WWE and what’s next for her. In the discussion, Jax shared that she was hurt when wrestling fans labeled her as “unsafe” and harassed her online.

Jax acknowledged that she had to be cautious working due to her size, but she claims to have only injured two people throughout her career.

“… I’ve already acknowledged that my coach Sara Amato had always said you always have to be aware because you are so much bigger that like you throwing your arm and hitting somebody in the face is not going to be the same as somebody smaller than you and so I was always conscious of that, and I always try to take pride like I worked with Lexi (Alexa Bliss) for most of my career like she’s so tiny and she trusted me,” said Jax.

She continued, “…That hurt when people just like, ‘Oh, she just injuries everybody. She just hurts everybody,’ and I can tell you this right now in my career I know I’ve injured two people. Obviously, Becky was one of them, and there’s another one that, like you know I don’t want to call her out, but like I know I did, and I profusely apologized.”

Nia Jax Injuring Becky Lynch

Nia Jax’s most infamous incident of injuring an opponent is when she gave Becky Lynch a concussion and left her bloodied. The injury occurred during a brawl on Monday Night Raw on Nov. 13, 2018, when she hit Lynch in the face. While fans vilified Jax, she shared that it was an accident.

“The producer of that match, I won’t name names, basically was like, ‘this needs to look real. Say sorry, later,’ and We were all like, okay cool, let’s go, let’s have fun, whatever and being the larger person, I feel as though people feel, ‘Oh, we can hit the shit out of her. She’ll be fine’, which is true. For the most part, like I get wailed and whatever. I’m okay,” said Jax.

During the segment, Jax claims that wrestlers hit her on the back of the head and swung back on someone, which happened to be Lynch.

“…My fist wasn’t closed. I didn’t punch her. But it did connect. I didn’t even realize it was Becky. I honestly thought it was Lana, said Jax. The former WWE talent continued, “…Then I look around, and I’m like, Oh my gosh, there’s blood everywhere. Then I look, and I’m like, Oh crap, Becky’s down.”

Becky Lynch Bloody

WWE released Nia Jax on Nov. 4, 2021, ending her seven-year career with the company. Now a free agent, she wants to enjoy the time away from wrestling and engaging in new opportunities.

Jax also revealed to Renee Paquette that she turned down an offer by WWE to appear in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match. You can read more about that below:

Nia Jax on WWE Wanting Her in the Royal Rumble, Concussing Becky Lynch in 2018

Riddle Says RK-Bro Was Only Supposed To Last One Night

Chris Stephens
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Matt Riddle said in a recent interview with Mark Andrews that his team with Randy Orton, RK-Bro, was not supposed to be a long term deal. In fact, Riddle says the original plan called for Randy Orton to turn on him the very first night.

“I’ll tell you this, I guess it’s just my luck with tag teams because now I’m tagging with Randy Orton, doing the RK-Bro and bro, same thing happened. It was supposed to be a one — he was supposed to turn on me night one,” Riddle said.

“Like literally, he was supposed to turn on me night one and then Vince and the crowd and everybody liked it so much they’re like, ‘You guys willing to see if this works?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah’ and Randy was like, ‘Yeah, we’re willing to see.’”

“You know, we like working with each other, we’re friendly, it’s been crazy. Randy was gone for three months, I just kept the team afloat. Always talking about Randy. They’re like, ‘Oh man, he’ll be back soon.’ I had no idea when he was coming back.”

Where Is Randy Orton?

Randy Orton
Randy Orton

Randy Orton appears to be taking time away from WWE again, although it is not clear how long he will be gone for. Bryan Alvarez noted on Wrestling Observer Live that the Viper will be away for “a little while” although the reason for his absence is not clear.

Orton entered into the Royal Rumble match at #29 and only lasted a little over 2 minutes before being eliminated by Brock Lesnar. He then missed this week’s RAW even though he had been scheduled to take part in the scooter race along with Riddle against the Alpha Academy. It’s not clear if Orton will be on RAW next week for the Quiz Bowl with RK-Bro, Chad Gable and Otis.

H/T to Fightful for the above transcriptions.

Juice Robinson Is Now A Free Agent

Chris Stephens
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Juice Robinson’s contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling expired on January 31st, 2022. According to a report from Fightful, he is now a free agent.

Robinson has been wrestling in New Japan’s USA promotion and Impact Wrestling as of late. He has not wrestled in Japan since March.

“It’s a great time in wrestling to show up anywhere, and maybe it’s the right time for me to spread my wings and fly,” Robinson said to Sports Illustrated back in November.

Robinson may continue working with New Japan Pro Wrestling despite not being under contract.

Toni Storm & Juice Robinson Announce Their Engagement

The 32-year-old made his pro debut in 2008 after having been trained by Truth Martini. He signed with WWE in 2011 and worked under the name CJ Parker. While performing in NXT, his character became something of an eco-warrior and would carry signs that read, “There is no Planet B”. In 2015, Robinson departed the company and signed with NJPW that summer.

While in NJPW, Robinson was a 2x IWGP United States Champion. He also won the World Tag League in 2019 along with David Finlay. His team with Finlay, FinJuice, are also former IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Champions. FinJuice are also 1x former Impact World Tag Team Champions as well.

Sean Waltman Says WWE Wasn’t Interested In Royal Rumble Appearance

Chris Stephens
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Sean Waltman said he notified WWE that he would be available for the Royal Rumble if they needed him. According to comments he made to Sports Illustrated, his belief is that the company wasn’t interested.

“As far as the Royal Rumble, I gave them a heads up I’d be ready if they wanted me,” Waltman says. “I wasn’t actively campaigning for it. I wasn’t going to do that. But I let them know, and I guess they weren’t interested.”

Waltman also noted during the interview that he did pretty well in wrestling when he was not clear-headed. He believes he has much left to offer now that he is.

“I did pretty well in this industry when I wasn’t clear-headed, so think of what I can do with a healthy mind and healthy body,” Waltman says. “I don’t know how many matches I have left in me, so I’m going to go out there and have some great f—ing matches.”

Waltman’s last match was in the spring of 2019. He says that his last few years of wrestling were more of a nostalgic act but that this run will be different.

The 49-year-old appeared recently on The WRLD On GCW PPV from The Hammerstein Ballroom. He now appears to be entering a program with Matt Cardona in the promotion.

Ken Anderson Denies Scamming Students of His Wrestling School

Michael Reichlin
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Former WWE & Impact star Ken Anderson has responded to allegations that he scammed the students Minneapolis-based wrestling school, The Academy: School of Professional Wrestling.

According to Anderson, “nobody has been conned or scammed.” He intends to reopen his school once they can find a new location. He also vows that the students who paid to attend the school years ago will get what they paid for.

The controversy began when one of his students posted a thread on Reddit writing:

“Ken Anderson’s wrestling school has been closed for quite some time now and has not opened or resumed like other gyms and recreational sports.

He’s been taking in new recruits for over a year now during the pandemic with no facility or real date set in place. Not having a facility to train in was not disclosed during the signup process.

He’s gone silent and his only update every 2-3 months is that they’re in talks with a realtor for a new facility but no real progress comes out of it.

Students have now been enrolled for close to two years with no training in sight, not even remote homework like tape study, character development or promos. His official website for the school has since gone down, which doesn’t help the situation or convey a good message.”

Ken Anderson’s Statement

Anderson posted the following statement on Facebook giving his side of the story:

“I feel it necessary, given the nature of the original Reddit post and subsequent articles written about my character and my wrestling school, to address them publicly.

I personally have not been contacted by anyone from the Internet Wrestling Community wishing to ask for my comments on those statements about me. In 2016, my friend Shawn Daivari and I realized we had similar visions for how a wrestling school should be and could be operated. We decided to team up and open ‘The Academy: School of Professional Wrestling.’

Since day one, we were committed to giving everyone that came through our doors an opportunity to learn as much as they could about professional wrestling. From safety to etiquette, from basic holds to exciting high spots, from character development to interview skills, we either covered it or were able to connect our students to resources that did. We’ve hosted some of the biggest names in the wrestling industry as guest trainers. We’ve welcomed over 200 students from all walks of life, foreign and domestic, each with individual goals and aspirations.

Dozens of those students now appear weekly around the midwest independent wrestling scene, some have traveled nationally and even internationally, a handful of our graduates are “on the radar” of the big companies, and a few call AEW their current fulltime employer.

Unfortunately, Covid 19 closed our doors in 2020. I understand that not all will agree with our decision to not re-open and to play it safe (some re-opened almost immediately) as we were hit with variants and waves of infection. I don’t have control over what others choose to do with their bodies or businesses, but I felt it was the right thing to do for the health and safety of our students and their families as well as our own family. Pro -wrestling and social distancing do not pair well. If I had to do it again without the benefit of hindsight I would have handled those unsure times the same way.

As those dates got pushed forward, in the individual correspondence with our students, there was a natural sense of frustration. But each time we expressed our reasons and concerns, we were met with understanding every time, from every student. It was our understanding that everyone was on the same page. In hindsight we recognize that we could have and should have communicated more.

Nobody has been conned or scammed. We remain as dedicated to and excited about re-opening now as we were to initially open our doors in 2016.

We are currently working with a realtor to secure a new location that will meet our specific needs: high ceilings, zero noise restrictions, ample parking for our students, price and location. Two months ago, we had found a great building that met every single one of those criteria, but after discussing it with each student individually, and some expressing concerns over distance, we decided that it wasn’t a fit. We need to do this right the …second time. With minimum 3-5 yr lease terms we cannot get into a building that isn’t going to check those boxes.

We look forward to re-opening. The minute that we secure that building, we will be in touch with everyone including new students, returning students and graduates.In the meantime, our students are encouraged to contact us at any time, with any concerns.

Thank you,
Ken Anderson
The Academy: School of Professional Wrestling
(507)722-2776″

Athena To Face Thunder Rosa for Warrior Wrestling Women’s Title

Michael Reichlin
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Former WWE Superstar Athena (Ember Moon) will challenge for championship gold in her first match since leaving WWE.

Athena’s return match will take place next Saturday, February 12th for Warrior Wrestling. She’ll challenge Warrior Wrestling Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa at Warrior Wrestling 19 from Cicero Stadium outside Chicago, IL.

Thunder Rosa recently issued an open challenge to determine her next opponent. Now that she is a free agent, Athena stepped up.

Warrior Wrestling released the following promo hyping this contest:

Athena wrote on Twitter, “We back baybeee and we are gonna take titles!”

She also revealed her new theme song will be “Athena” by the band Plush.

Earlier this week, Athena held a stream on Twitch where she spoke about her WWE run. Despite being underutilized on the main roster, she said she’s grateful for the opportunities WWE gave her and feels bad for the other developmental talent who did not get the same breaks that she did.

You can check out her comments at the link below:

Athena (Ember Moon) Grateful For Opportunities in WWE

The Hardy Boyz Booked For Another Upcoming Match

Michael Reichlin
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The Hardy Boyz, Matt and Jeff, have signed to wrestle together at another upcoming show.

The Hardys will team up on March 19th for the Patriotic Wrestling Federation’s live event from Clover, South Carolina. The match is being promoted as “The Hardy Boyz Carolina’s Reunion: 3 Years in The Making!”

Other familiar names booked to appear PWF show Griff Garrison of the Varsity Blonds and Brock Anderson (accompanied by his father, Arn Anderson). Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat and Bill Eadie (Demolition Ax”) will also be on hand for meet & greets.

For more information and tickets, visit PWFLive.com.

Jeff Hardy is currently bound by a WWE 90-day non-compete clause. He will be free to wrestle again on March 9th.

The Hardy Boyz will be reuniting for several upcoming shows. They will team together on March 12th for Big Time Wrestling in Webster, Massachusetts.

The 12-time tag team champions will also be doing autograph signings at the following events:

  • Saturday, March 12: Zombie Hideout (Springfield, MA)
  • Sunday, March 13: Pandora’s Box (Lafayette, NJ)

Athena (Ember Moon) Grateful For Opportunities in WWE

Michael Reichlin
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Former WWE Superstar Athena (Ember Moon) is speaking out about her time with the company.

Athena departed WWE on November 4th, 2021. 90+ days later, she is now a free agent and able to work for other promotions.

On Wednesday, she held a live stream on Twitch and said she harbors no bad feelings against the company. She is grateful for the opportunities WWE afforded her and believes the positives outweigh the negatives.

There is no use in being mad.

– Athena

“Without WWE, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today,” she said. “I got to travel the world, meet amazing people and make amazing friends that are going to be with me for a lifetime. At the end of the day, I don’t think it’s all bad.”

Athena Grateful for Opportunity

Ember Moon NXT Women's Champion

Athena says many of the people she worked and trained with did not get the opportunities that she did.

She held the NXT Women’s Championship (2017) and competed on the main roster. She still had a lot left to accomplish in WWE, but the Performance Center and NXT are full of talent who never get a chance in the spotlight.

“That’s part of the reason why I feel like it’s not fair for me to come on here and b*tch and moan and whine, she said. “It’s not fair.”

Several other former WWE Superstars became free agents this week, including Keith Lee and Karrion Kross. Check out the articles below to see their latest comments since the expiration of their non-compete clauses.

Keith Lee Becomes a Free Agent: “My Chains Are Broken”
Killer Kross on Free Agency: “A New Tale Has Begun”

H/T to Fightful for the transcribed quotes

Brian Kendrick Apologizes For Anti-Semitic Hate Speech

Ryan Droste
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Brian Kendrick was slated to make his debut for AEW on Wednesday night during Dynamite from Chicago. Instead, he was pulled from the show after some controversial statements he made in the past came to light.

Kendrick had previously asked for his release from WWE and was granted his request. He was then booked to face Jon Moxley this week on Dynamite until just hours before the show.

A video circulated on Twitter Wednesday of Kendrick making some reprehensible anti-semitic statements during a 2011 interview.

“We’ve been made aware of abhorrent & offensive comments made in the past by Brian Kendrick,” AEW President Tony Khan stated. “There’s no room in AEW for the views expressed by Brian. We think it’s best for all that Brian be pulled from tonight’s card as we gather more info. We’ll announce a replacement bout ASAP.”

Moxley ended up facing Wheeler Yuta in the opening match of AEW Dynamite. The two had a fantastic match, and after the bout, Moxley and Bryan Danielson had a face to face where Bryan pitched an idea for the pair to team.

As all this was going on, Kendrick took to his Twitter page to apologize for his comments from a decade ago.

“I apologize for all the hurt and embarassment I have caused with my words. These are not my beliefs and never were beliefs of mine, and I crossed the line,” Kendrick said in his first statement.

He then posted a second which read, “I spread the most vile comments without thinking of the damage it would cause. I will live with this regret for the rest of my life. I am truly sorry for the pain I have caused.”

Kendrick’s comments consisted of a minimization of the Holocaust, some wild claims that the Rothschild and Rockefeller families were “interbreeding,” claims of a link between Zionists and the Illuminati, some strange conspiracy theory ideas about Jewish medics and a 2010 Haitian earthquake, and more.

You can read an article by Culture Crossfire from 2013 which covers some of this.

Check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.

AEW Dynamite Results (2/2): CM Punk vs. MJF, Bryan Danielson Makes An Offer To Jon Moxley

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired live from the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. CM Punk and MJF squared off tonight in the main event. Jon Moxley faced Wheeler Yuta in the first match of the night and had a conversation with Bryan Danielson following the match.

Dynamite Results

  1. Jon Moxley def. Wheeler Yuta
  2. Malakai Black & Brody King def. PAC & Pentagon Jr.
  3. Nyla Rose def. Ruby Soho
  4. MJF def. CM Punk

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Bryan Danielson Wants To Team Up With Jon Moxley

Jon Moxley made his entrance to kick off the show. Moxley was originally scheduled to face Brian Kendrick before ramblings were brought to the public’s attention earlier today. Moxley faced Wheeler Yuta instead with Orange Cassidy & Danhausen ringside.

Moxley and Yuta locked up to start off the action. Moxley hit Wheeler with a shoulder tackle but Wheeler responded with an Arm Drag. The two wrestlers circled each other before locking up again. Yuta used his quickness and sent Moxley out of the ring with a Dropkick. Moxley had an interaction with Orange Cassidy and Wheeler went for a dive. Moxley caught him but Wheeler escaped and hit a Dropkick before the action returned to the ring.

Wheeler went for another Dropkick off the top rope but Jon dodged it. Moxley hit a release Suplex and flexed for the crowd. Moxley knocked Wheeler out of the ring with a chop and greeted him with a Piledriver as he got back into the ring. Moxley went for the cover but Yuka kicked out at two. Moxley applied a terrible looking Headlock but Yuta got his boot on the ropes.

Moxley perched Yuta up on the top turnbuckle and raked his back. Yuta hit a headbutt and Moxley stumbled back. Yuta leaped down and hit another Dropkick. Wheeler followed it up with an Atomic Drop, Enziguri, and then a Splash in the corner. Wheeler climbed to the top rope but Moxley rolled to the apron. Wheeler went after him and Moxley hit a headbutt before driving Wheeler’s head into the apron with a Bulldog. Jon and Orange Cassidy traded words before Jon turned around and Danhausen provided a distraction.

Wheeler capitalized with a huge Crossbody and then a German Suplex in the ring for a two count. Moxley planted Yuta with a Cutter and went for a Paradigm Shift but Yuta escaped. Wheeler hit an Olympic Slam off the top rope and went for the cover but Moxley kicked out at the last moment. Moxley leveled Wheeler with a Clothesline before unloading a bunch of elbows to his face. Jon then hit the Paradigm Shift for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Bryan Danielson got in the ring with a microphone. He had a stare down with Moxley before asking the crowd if he wanted to see them fight. The crowd chanted “yes!” and Danielson said for a long time he wanted to fight Jon because he was different but he’s become a new Jon Moxley. Danielson noted that he was watching Jon from back where he was (WWE) and claimed that Moxley was the best AEW World Champion. Danielson suggested that if Jon had a little support he would still be AEW Champion. Bryan said that the shouldn’t be fighting each other, they should be fighting together.

Danielson claimed that there is no reason why some millennial cowboy should be AEW Champion. Bryan added that there is no reason why someone dressed as a dinosaur should be a tag team champion and someone who’s main contribution to society is a vlog as the TNT Champion.

Bryan told Moxley that they could run this place together. Danielson added that Wheeler Yuta is coming to the ring with a couple of jokes like Danhausen & Orange Cassidy. Danielson brought up Lee Moriarty and getting him away from Dante Martin’s high flying bullcrap and they trained the future of professional wrestling. Jim Ross chimed in with “like it or not, there is a lot of truth being told”, as many fans likely agree with Danielson’s points.

Bryan said that even if they don’t like me, they like what I’m talking about and the crowd cheered. Danielson told Moxley that he doesn’t have to answer right now and wants him to think about the greatness that we can create and the legacy that Jon wants to leave. Bryan left the ring and Moxley gave a funny look into the camera at the end of the segment.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1489045818497814534?s=20&t=sssAr7Uo2gBTXzg3nM92jA

Paige VanZant Confronted Brandi Rhodes

Brandi Rhodes came down to the ring and the crowd booed the hell out of her. Rhodes jokingly thanked the fans of Cleveland even though they are in Chicago. Dan Lambert interrupted and said that Brandi may have gotten a reality show, but now she needs a reality check. Lambert said that Brandi can pretend that “Chief Brand Officer” or that her accent is real. Ethan Page started laughing and Brandi told him that he only got signed because they wanted Josh Alexander.

The crowd was restless and chanted “shut the f*ck up!” at Brandi. Rhodes joked that Lambert’s best fighter got knocked out by Jake Paul. Eventually, Brandi wound up slapping Dan in his face. Lambert introduced Paige VanZant and she battled for a couple seconds with Brandi before the locker room rushed the ring on cue to break it up.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1489048656380583941?s=20&t=VKmEB9O6apGXT1-zxMAq7w

Malakai Black & Brody King Picked Up A Win

Malakai Black & Body King battled PAC & Pentagon Jr. PAC was wearing a blindfold and still beat Malakai down. PAC removed the eye patch/blindfold to reveal that eyes were working all along! Can you believe it?! PAC and Penta isolated Malakai in the ring and took turns beat him down.Brody King tagged in and hit PAC with a chop as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Malakai hit PAC with a Dropkick and then a running knee to the face for a two count. Brody and Penta traded punches before Penta sent him out of the ring. Penta hit a springboard flip and fired up the crowd. Back in the ring, PAC and Penta dropped Malakai with a couple Superkicks. PAC climbed to the top rope but King shoved him to the floor. Malakai sprayed the mist in Penta’s eyes while the referee was distracted. Brody King tagged in and Malakai launched Penta towards him. Brody planted Penta with a Powerslam for the pinfall victory.

Nyla Rose def. Ruby Soho

Adam Cole cut a backstage promo and said he was still undefeated in AEW and his record reflects. Cole claimed that Orange Cassidy didn’t beat him, it was a fluke, and his record shows that. Adam Cole shouted that he was one of the best damn pro wrestlers on the planet and he is going to start taking what he wants. Cole then vowed to hurt and injure Evil Uno in two days on Rampage. After he does that, Cole claimed that the entire world will know exactly what he wants.

Ruby Soho faced Nyla Rose tonight on Dynamite. Vickie Guerrero accompanied Nyla to the ring and was ringside for the match. Nyla dominated the match early and planted Ruby with a Body Slam. Rose followed it up with a Leg Drop and went for the cover but Soho kicked out at two. Rose applied a submission hold as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Vickie Guerrero distracted Ruby and Nyla capitalized. Nyla climbed to the top rope but Ruby met her up there. Soho went for a Hurricanrana but Nyla blocked it. Rose hit a Senton and followed it up with a Powerbomb for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Gunn Club attacked Jungle Boy in the locker room. They then beat him down outside the arena and threw him into a snow bank. Gunn Club scurried away when Christian Cage and Luchasaurus showed up.

Lance Archer Attacked Hangman Page

Tony Schiavone interviewed AEW Champion Hangman Page about his Texas Death Match against Lance Archer next week. Hangman wasn’t thrilled about the match stipulation but was ready for the fight. Jake Roberts & Dan Lambert interrupted. Jake claimed that people were saying that Hangman was starting to act different and is constantly looking around behind him. Roberts said that was fear and Lance Archer rushed the ring. Archer beat Hangman Page down and hit the Blackout through a table ahead of their title match next week.

Wardlow Helped MJF Pick Up A Win Over CM Punk

MJF faced CM Punk tonight on Dynamite. MJF made his way to the ring with 45 minutes left in the show. Punk tired MJF up in the ropes and kept punching him in the face until he stumbled out of the ring. CM Punk followed him and hit some chops against the barricade.

MJF hopped over the barricade and started roaming into the crowd. Punk chased him up the steps and dragged him back down while punching him in the head the entire time. Punk also planted MJF with an Atomic Drop on the railing. Punk posed for the crowd before rolling MJF back into the ring.

CM Punk connected with a Body Slam and followed it up with another one. Punk looked at the crowd before hitting a third Body Slam. Punk laughed before taking a rest across the top rope in the corner. Punk hopped to the top rope but MJF rolled to the opposite side of the ring. Punk chased after him and wound up launching himself into the ring post. CM Punk grabbed his shoulder in pain on the floor outside the ring as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Punk hit a Crossbody but grabbed his arm in pain after hitting the post. Punk hit a Neckbreaker and smacked his arm a couple times. CM Punk hit a running knee to the face and followed it up with a Bulldog. MJF rolled to the apron to buy himself some time but Punk followed him. Punk delivered a Body Slam on the ring apron and then let a fan chop MJF in the chest. Back in the ring, Punk climbed to the top rope but MJF tripped him up. MJF hit a slam off the top rope for a near fall.

MJF used tape and choked Punk while applying a Headlock. The referee couldn’t see it and Punk started to fade. Punk passed out and MJF won. The referee raised his hand and the tape fell out. It was then announced that the match would continue and Punk rolled him up for a two count. Punk bashed MJF’s face into the turnbuckle and unloaded a bunch of punches to the face. Punk followed it up with an Atomic Drop and then a Clothesline. MJF launched Punk out of the ring as Dynamite went to a break.

Maxwell went for a Piledriver but Punk blocked it. Punk launched MJF across the ring and hit a Clothesline off the top turnbuckle. Punk set up for the GTS but MJF escaped to the ring apron. CM Punk hit a springboard Dropkick that knocked MJF to the outside. Punk followed it up with a dive and both wrestlers fell to the floor. Back in the ring, Punk applied a Crossface but couldn’t put much pressure due to his injured arm. Punk connected with a Destroyer for a near fall. A “deep dish pizza!” chant broke out as Dynamite went to a final commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Punk was hobbling now and selling injuries to his shoulder and leg. MJF bit the top of Punk’s head in the corner and perched him up on the top turnbuckle. Punk responded with a bite of his own and hit the Pepsi Plunge for the first time in an eternity and got a great pop from the crowd.

Punk caught MJF with a kick to the face and climbed to the top rope. Punk connected with an Elbow Drop for a near fall. MJF tumbled out of the ring again to buy some time. Wardlow came down the entrance and CM Punk was distracted. MJF put on the Dynamite Diamond Ring behind the referee and punched Punk in the face. MJF pinned Punk for the victory and posed in the ring with Wardlow by his side to end the show.

Kurt Angle Reveals Hilarious Reason He Was Eliminated Early From 2006 Elimination Chamber

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has a rather hysterical reason for being the first person pinned in the New Year’s Revolution Elimination Chamber match back in 2006.

Angle had competed for John Cena’s WWE Championship in the match. Joining them were Shawn Michaels, Kane, Carlito, and Chris Masters. Ultimately, Cena retained and Edge successfully cashed in his Money in the Bank contract.

Angle started off the match red hot. He was delivering German suplexes left and right but was quickly eliminated by Michaels courtesy of a Sweet Chin Music.

Classic Game To Blame (Or Thank)

On an episode of The Kurt Angle Show, the Olympic gold medalist revealed that all the Elimination Chamber participants except for Cena competed in a game of rock, paper, scissors to see who would get eliminated first.

Angle won and he was thrilled to say the least. This also puts to bed the theory that Angle was out early due to Batista’s injury that same night working a house show.

“No, we didn’t know at that particular time [of Batista’s injury] and that’s not the reason I got eliminated early. The reason I got eliminated early is because I won [rock, paper, scissors].

“We had a competition because John Cena was the champion. He was gonna retain the title at Elimination Chamber. So, the other five of us decided everybody wanted to get eliminated early.

“They didn’t wanna last the whole match cause they weren’t gonna win and I won [rock, paper, scissors] so I got eliminated first [laughs]. That doesn’t happen very often but we did it that night.”

Angle also noted that he got to choose “HBK” as the one who eliminated him. Angle said he decided on Michaels because the two were going to start a feud that would lead to WrestleMania 21.

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Brian Kendrick Yanked From AEW Dynamite Due To Controversial Comments

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Brian Kendrick will not be appearing on the Feb. 2 episode of AEW Dynamite.

Kendrick requested his WWE release and had his wish granted. Wrestling fans rallied behind Kendrick and rejoiced after it was announced that he’d be making his AEW debut against Jon Moxley.

Oh how quickly things can change.

Past Comments Resurface

Twitter user Dan Pierce brought attention to a 2011 interview where Brian Kendrick expressed antisemitic views. David Bixenspan unearthed a lengthier version of the video and it has done Kendrick no favors.

AEW boss Tony Khan caught wind of the interview and has pulled Kendrick from Dynamite.

“We’ve been made aware of abhorrent & offensive comments made in the past by Brian Kendrick. There’s no room in AEW for the views expressed by Brian. We think it’s best for all that Brian be pulled from tonight’s card as we gather more info. We’ll announce a replacement bout ASAP.”

The former WWE star claimed that the Rothschilds and Rockefellers were “interbreeding.” He also said that there was a link between Zionists and the Illuminati.

Near the end of the video, Kendrick suggested that “Jewish medics” were flown out to Haiti in response to the 2010 earthquake in order to remove bodies and eyeballs. In the interview, he also revealed he attended a lecture set up by a British conspiracy theorist known for having antisemitic views. 

There’s a lot more to unpack in the video, which you can watch here. An article by Culture Crossfire from 2013 also covers more of Kendrick’s conspiracy theories.

Bully Ray: WWE Championship Could Not Mean Any Less To Me

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Bully Ray believes the WWE Championship hasn’t been treated with the same dignity as the Universal Title.

Brock Lesnar walked into the Royal Rumble event this year as the WWE Champion. He put his gold on the line against Bobby Lashley.

Paul Heyman turned on Brock by handing Roman Reigns the WWE Title. “The Tribal Chief” blasted Brock with the gold, allowing Lashley to score the pinfall and win the championship.

Shortly after Roman nailed Brock with the WWE Championship, he looked at the title in disgust and tossed it to the side. Reigns is the current WWE Universal Champion.

No Love For WWE Title

During an episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray expressed his belief that the WWE Championship has been treated as a secondary championship.

“No matter how great Bobby Lashley looks, no matter how great of a wrestler Bobby Lashley is, Bobby Lashley has been getting verbally punked out by Brock Lesnar.

“It happened a little bit again last night, and then in the package seeing Roman just discard the championship and throw it to the side tells me that the WWE looks at that Universal Championship as the end all and be all.

“There’s gonna be a WWE Championship match at WrestleMania but it’s not gonna feel nearly as important unless Brock Lesnar is the one holding that championship. So, I don’t know what a lot of people wanna see.

“This is me as a fan, that WWE Championship could not mean any less to me.”

Brock will get a chance to win back the WWE Title on Feb. 19. He will be competing in an Elimination Chamber match in Saudi Arabia. He’ll share the ring with Lashley, AJ Styles, Seth Rollins, Riddle, and Austin Theory.

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

Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat Booked For MLW Event

Chris Stephens
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Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat has been booked for MLW’s February 26th, 2022 show in Charlotte, North Carolina. Steamboat will play the role as MLW match-maker for the event as well.

“The legend returns to the hallowed grounds of the Grady Cole Center where “The Dragon” emerged as a main eventer and forever became a part of Charlotte’s rich wrestling history,” reads an MLW press release.

“Celebrated as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Ricky Steamboat has signed on as the matchmaker for MLW’s big Charlotte card.”

MLW’s current match-maker is Cesar Duran. He is the former Dario Cueto from Lucha Underground and plays a very similar role in MLW. The promotion is currently airing episodes of “MLW Azteca”. These episodes feature matches taped during their show in Tijuana, Mexico on December 3rd.

One match already booked for the show in Charlotte will see Alexander Hammerstone defend his MLW World Championship. Hammerstone will face the winner of the 2021 Opera Cup, Davey Richards.

The 68-year-old Steamboat is a 1x NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame Class of 2009. Additionally, Steamboat was a 4x NWA United States Champion, 1x WWE Intercontinental Champion, 2x Mid-Atlantic NWA Heavyweight Champion.

Keith Lee Becomes a Free Agent: “My Chains Are Broken”

Michael Reichlin
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Keith Lee is a free man. 90 days after WWE released him on November 4th, 2021, the Limitless one is able to work anywhere he pleases.

On Wednesday, Keith Lee wrote on Twitter:

Through Victory… My Chains are Broken.

Time…. has freed me. And now… the Force shall guide me.

– Keith Lee

Keith Lee sounds hungry to get back in the ring, wherever “the force” takes him.

In the weeks following his WWE release, Keith Lee has assured fans that he will return in some capacity. He told his followers on social media, “patience is key.”

Lee recently applied to trademark his “Limitless” moniker, for entertainment services and merchandising.

Now that Keith Lee is no longer bound by a WWE non-compete clause, it’s only a matter of time before fans bask in his glory once again.

For more details on the (many) former WWE Superstars who are also free agents as of today, check out this article:

Hit up the comments and let us know where you want to see Keith Lee next.

Shane McMahon Departs WWE After Royal Rumble Chaos

Chris Stephens
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WWE has scrapped plans for Shane McMahon to wrestle at Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania.

Vince McMahon’s only son was a surprise entrant in the 2022 Men’s Royal Rumble match. In the days following the Rumble, we learned Shane McMahon was heavily involved in the booking the men’s Rumble match. The planning of that match was said to be very chaotic and McMahon had “backstage heat” as a result.

Steve Carrier of RingsideNews is reporting that all bets are off and Shane ‘o Mac is effectively gone from the company.

“There is a lot going on with Shane McMahon. He is now off RAW, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania,” Carrier tweeted. “A tenured source within the company told us that Vince McMahon is also quietly using the term ‘let go’ to describe the situation.”

https://twitter.com/steve_carrier/status/1488860957115834369

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer has since confirmed the Ringside News report.

Shane McMahon & the Royal Rumble

McMahon worked as a producer on the men’s Royal Rumble match. It is something he also did for the 2020 and 2021 Rumble matches as well. Previous reports stated that McMahon attempted to make this year’s Rumble match all about himself, however.

Dave Meltzer addressed the situation recently on Wrestling Observer Radio.

“There was a lot of heat on Shane because Shane was one of the producers,” Meltzer said. “In fact he was kind of the head producer of the Rumble.”

A previous report from Ringside News stated that “A tenured member of the creative team told us that Shane McMahon ‘openly buried Jamie Noble’ and he ‘tried to book the Rumble around himself.’” 

Click below for more details on Shane McMahon’s chaotic week:

Heat on Shane McMahon From Royal Rumble Booking (Report)

Killer Kross on Free Agency: “A New Tale Has Begun”

Michael Reichlin
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Killer Kross is now a free agent. He was one of nearly 20 people released by WWE on November 4th, 2022. His 90-day non-compete clause has expired, paving the way for whatever comes next.

To commemorate his freedom, Kross released a new vignette titled, Midnight. In the video, he makes a clear distinction between Killer Kross and Karrion Kross, the character he portrayed in WWE and NXT.

“When they called, they said, ‘We are releasing you.’ And how ironic, because they said that to the man who put me away. And at the same time they were releasing him, it was actually they who released me, which is exactly what I needed the entire time. And now, I have such sights to show you. Stay tuned. Tick-tock.”

Karrion Kross in WWE

Killer Kross joined WWE in February 2020. Over the next two years, he would wreak havoc on NXT, WWE’s developmental brand. He was booked as a maniacal killer and captured the NXT Championship on two separate occasions.

It seemed like Karrion Kross was destined for big things when he was called up to the main roster, but that was not the case. He made his WWE Raw debut on July 19th, 2021. Despite holding the NXT Championship at the time, he was pinned by Jeff Hardy in less than two minutes.

Kross officially joined the Raw brand a month later. His character received a complete overhaul, including a gladiator helmet and suspenders. His fiancée, Scarlett Bordeaux, was no longer part of his act. Kross didn’t do much on the Raw brand from there. He and Scarlett were both released a few months later.

In addition to Karrion Kross, other former WWE Superstars who are now free agents include Keith Lee, Nia Jax, Ember Moon, Scarlett Bordeaux and Eva Marie.

Many Released WWE Superstars Now Free Agents

Michael Reichlin
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Over a dozen former WWE Superstars are now free agents.

As part of WWE’s ongoing effort to aggressively cut costs, the company held another round of mass layoffs on November 4th, 2021. Talent from NXT had 30-day non-compete clauses, while the main roster stars were bound by 90-day restrictions.

We are 90 days removed from November 4th, which means all of the following stars are now free agents and able to work anywhere:

  • B-Fab
  • Davey Boy Smith Jr
  • Ember Moon
  • Eva Marie
  • Gran Metalik
  • Karrion Kross
  • Keith Lee
  • Lince Dorado
  • Mia Yim
  • Nia Jax
  • Scarlett Bordeaux

In two more weeks, another batch of wrestlers will join the free agency market from the releases that took place on November 18th:

  • John Morrison
  • Top Dolla
  • Ashante Adonis
  • Isaiah “Swerve” Scott
  • Tegan Nox
  • Drake Maverick
  • Shane Thorne
  • Jaxson Ryker

It remains to be seen how many of these performers join the ranks of AEW, Impact, New Japan Pro Wrestling, MLW and the independent scene.

Sami Zayn Calls Out Johnny Knoxville At Jackass Forever Premiere

Chris Stephens
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Sami Zayn crashed the premiere of the “Jackass Forever” movie. He used the event as an opportunity to call out his current rival on Smackdown, Johnny Knoxville. The two also came to blows on Saturday night in the 2022 men’s Royal Rumble match.

After Zayn berated the Jackass cast and attending media for awhile, he was led away by security.

“‘Look at him, Johnny Knoxville, the man of the hour! Let’s hear it for Johnny Knoxville,” Zayn shouted. “Are you getting this, Entertainment Tonight? I’m the bad guy for coming and trying to show respect!”

Video of Zayn being kicked out of the event was posted to WWE’s social media accounts:

Zayn entered the Royal Rumble on Saturday in the #8 position. Johnny Knoxville would enter immediately after him in the #9 spot. Zayn eliminated Knoxville from the Rumble but was then eliminated himself shortly after by AJ Styles.

The 37-year-old recently re-signed with WWE. Zayn would later tell Pat Laprade that he is happy with his role in the company.

“It’s not the first time I’ve said it, but I’m really happy with my role with the company in recent years, especially the last year, year and a half,” a translation of Zayn’s comments read. “I’m doing the best job of my career, especially in terms of my character. I don’t know why people were really surprised. They have an idea in their heads that everyone in WWE is unhappy being there, unhappy with their role, that they want more or feel oppressed, or I don’t know what. For me, I’m really happy with my role and I can’t wait to see what I’m going to be able to do in the next few years.”

WWE NXT 2.0 Results (2/1/22): Ciampa & Breakker Team-Up, Six-Man Tag Match

Andrew Ravens
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The February 1, 2022 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

WWE NXT Results 

  •  
  • Imperium (GUNTHER, Fabian Aichner & Marcel Barthel) def. Diamond Mine (Roderick Strong, Brutus Creed & Julius Creed).
  • Raquel Gonzalez def. Cora Jade.
  • Sarray def. Kayla Inlay.
  • Joe Gacy def. LA Knight.
  • Wendy Choo def. Amari Miller.
  • Andre Chase def. Draco Anthony.
  • Bron Breakker & Tommaso Ciampa def. Legado del Fantasma (Joaquin Wilde & Raul Mendoza) (w/Santos Escobar & Elektra Lopez).

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Joe Gacy vs. LA Knight

04NXT

Joe Gacy wrestled LA Knight in a singles bout, which was set up in a video that WWE released on social media this afternoon. In the clip, Knight was cutting a promo about his issues with Grayson Waller backstage only for him to be interrupted by acy and Harland showed up. Gacy stated that he could help Knight, who didn’t want his help and said after tonight, he would have more restraining orders and told Gacy he would see him in the ring. 

The match was back and forth until Waller came out to hit a cutter to Knight on the floor, which resulted in Knight getting back into the ring so Gacy hit a clothesline for the win. Post-match, Waller said if Knight can beat Sanga next week then maybe he would consider lifting the restraining order. 

Cora Jade vs. Raquel Gonzalez

0NXT

Cora Jade vs. Raquel Gonzalez in a singles match took place. 

These two had a segment last week in the gym as Jade wanted to team with Gonzalez in the Dusty Classic, but Gonzalez doubted Jade’s ability to win. Raquel brought up how Dakota Kai used to do anything to win and did just that when they teamed together. The two ended up getting into a fight that had to be stopped.

The match was pretty much one-sided with Raquel dominating until she hit her finisher for the win. Post-match, Raquel agreed to team with her in the tournament. 

Six-Man Tag Team Match

2nxt

Imperium (Gunther, NXT Tag Team Champions Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner) went up against The Diamond Mine (Roderick Strong, The Creed Brothers).

Last week, Malcolm Bivens said in a promo  that Gunther was a dumb name and challenged Imperium to a six-man tag match. Julius Creed called Imperium “European pretty boys”, while Strong told Gunther to enjoy the win from the previous week as it will never happen again.

The match opened the show and was very good. WALTER pinned one of the Creed Brothers with a powerbomb after Strong was tossed into the steel steps. 

Handicap Match 

1nxt

Tommaso Ciampa and Bron Breakker vs. Raul Mendoza and Joaquin Wilde in a tag match was booked as the headliner. 

The match was set up last week when Escobar called out Bron to tell him he despised him for finding success fast in NXT. Breakker said he earned everything and Escobar was insecure and that if he wanted to face him then make the challenge. Escobar said he would do it on his own time, which is Vengancy Day. 

At the end of the show, the rest of Legado Del Fantasma made the match for next week. Ciampa showed up when Legado Del Fantasma tried to jump Breakker outside of the venue. 

The match was saved for the main event. After the babyfaces got the early advantage, the heels took over. Raul did hit a spring board dive off the top rope. After a few minutes of Bron selling, Bron fought back. Wilde went for a dive, but was pushed off the top rope and crashed through a table. Bron with his finisher to Raul for the win. 

Closer

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Finally, Kay Lee Ray hunted down Mandy Rose and demanded that Rose put her Women’s Title on the line next week. Rose agreed and Ray laid her out with her finisher to close the show. Earlier in the night, Ray had kidnapped the rest of Toxic Extraction. 

Brian Kendrick To Make AEW Debut on this week’s Dynamite

Andrew Ravens
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Former WWE Cruiserweight champion Brian Kendrick will debut for All Elite Wrestling on Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite.

Kendrick requested his release from WWE in December, as first reported by PWInsider. Over a month later, AEW’s latest match announcement shows that Kendrick is in fact gone from WWE.

Brian Kendrick is jumping right into the deep end of AEW. He’ll battle former AEW World Champion Jon Moxley when AEW returns to Chicago, IL.

Kendrick was last seen in action for WWE on the 205 Live brand in 2020. Aside from those bouts, he did work a few Saudi Arabia battle royal matches. He hasn’t wrestled on WWE Raw or Smackdown since December 2017, but did briefly appear on NXT 2.0 for a storyline with Harland that was supposed to lead to a match, but never happened. 

Behind the scenes, Kendrick had been serving as a producer with the company. He has yet to publicly comment on his departure from WWE. 

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