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Nyla Rose on Transphobic Fan Sign Incident at AEW Dynamite

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling first signed trans wrestler Nyla Rose, shares her thoughts regarding a wrestling fan offensive sign aimed towards her.

On Dec. 22, 2021, Rose wrestled Ruby Soho on AEW Dynamite. A fan hoisted a transphobic sign for the AEW camera to see during the match. Rose responded by giving the middle finger, and her employers removed the male fan from the event. Sports Illustrated Justin Barrasso spoke with Rose about the incident that upset those that supported her and diversity.

Barrasso also transcribed the following quotes.

“For the most part, people understood why that sign was wrong,” Rose said. She continued, “Maybe that person didn’t quite understand the gravity of what they were doing. You want to boo, that’s cool. But there is a line. People might feel it’s a conflict of their beliefs by simply respecting someone else, but it’s not. You don’t have to understand or even agree with somebody’s situation to show them simple respect and kindness, like respecting their pronouns and respecting their way of life. I’d love for people to be cool with it, but if that’s not your thing, it’s not your thing. But shouldn’t people want to treat their fellow humans with a little respect and kindness?”

Nyla Rose’s on her Influence in AEW

As an African and Native American transgender wrestler in AEW, Rose is a role model for others. Although the article notes that Rose believes she is a wrestler and not a pioneer, the former AEW Women’s World Champion recognizes how influential she is.

“People from so many different walks of life have connected with me, and I think that’s wild,” Rose said. She continued, “I grew up a wrestling fan, and I found inspiration in my life from the things the wrestlers did. I’m going out there thinking, I’m just performing and putting on a show, but people have told me I’m a beacon for them. Black families have said they see me as someone who is so strong. As a Native person, I’ve heard from families that tell me it makes them so proud of their heritage that they’ve broken down in joy when they see themselves reflected in the Iroquois flag. The LGBTQ community has such a prominent figure [in Nyla Rose], and I understand the importance of that.”

Rose isn’t the only AEW wrestler from the LGBTQ community that had to deal with an offensive spectator. On Dec. 8, 2021, at AEW Dynamite, an instigator called Anthony Bowen a homophobic slur during his match. Like Rose, Bowens hopes to continue ignoring the hate and positively influence those who look up to him.

AJ Styles Doubles Down On Wanting To Face Edge At WrestleMania

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AJ Styles continues to call for a showdown with Edge.

Edge has said on WWE TV that he doesn’t have much time left in his career. It was a big talking point during his feud with The Miz before Maryse and Beth Phoenix entered the fray.

If Edge is indeed winding down the clock, retiring without having that big one-on-one match with Styles would be seen as a bummer to many fans. Styles remains optimistic.

Styles vs. Edge?

AJ Styles recently told WWE’s The Bump that he thinks we’re close to seeing him share the ring with Edge one-on-one. Speaking to DAZN, “The Phenomenal One” doubled down on those comments.

“I want Edge. I feel like it’s one of the last dream matches I have left. And the fact that it wasn’t possible a couple of years ago due to him not being cleared is something I really want. The fact he came back now makes that match a definite possibility, and I’d like to have it at WrestleMania.”

For many, Styles vs. Edge is just one of those matches that feels special. Not only are the two well-respected veterans but they’re also future Hall of Famers. Their names will be etched in history and a match between the two is the cherry on top.

Styles recently qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match. He isn’t expected to win it and if that hunch comes to fruition, it could open the door to that big WrestleMania match with Edge.

Killer Kross Says Fans May Be Disturbed With What He Does Next

Andrew Ravens
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Killer Kross, formerly known as Karrion Kriss, is plotting his return to pro wrestling. He will become a free agent this week, when his WWE non-compete clause expires.

The former NXT Champion star took to Instagram to reflect on the last two years of his career. Kross says wrestling fans have motivated him over the past few years, but they might be disturbed by what comes next.

I will not return in peace

– Killer Kross

“Much on my mind as of late as I come to a close on this final period,” Kross said. “In short; man, this was an incredible chapter of my life. Nothing but gratitude for every second. Thank you to everyone who came for the ride, and thank you for letting me take you on one as well. 2020 to now has been a challenging period in human history. I hope I was able to cast some relief for people during these times. You all brought me to life everyday and motivated me to find the best version of myself for YOU. As for the future…what you see next may disturb you, as I will not return in peace.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZa8D9luAtz/

After making a name for himself by working for various promotions such as Impact Wrestling, Lucha Libre AAA, and Lucha Underground, Killer Kross joined WWE in late 2020.

As Karrion Kross, he rose up the ranks quickly in NXT. He won the NXT Championship twice. He was called up to the main roster last year only to be later released.

It’s been reported that AAA is interested in bringing in Kross and Scarlett Bordeaux.

Top Dolla Believes He’ll Return To WWE At Some Point

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Top Dolla (AJ Francis) is no longer on the WWE roster, but he believes a return to the company isn’t far-fetched.

Dolla was a member of Hit Row along with Isiah “Swerve” Scott, Ashante “Thee” Adonis, and B-Fab. The group was praised for standing out within the WWE bubble but soon, everyone in the faction would be released.

Appearing on One-On-One With Jon Alba, Top Dolla said he’s got a lot of avenues he can explore but he isn’t closing the door on a WWE comeback.

“What I can actually do is go out and get opportunities on television elsewhere. I’ve been in Super Bowl commercials. I made the Super Bowl song for the Chiefs. I’m ready to tackle all aspects of what’s coming next by being able to do things that I love that my schedule limited before.”

“Do I think I’m done with WWE forever? No, just from some personal conversations I’ve had with people, I don’t. Do I think that I need to focus on myself right now? Absolutely. To be honest with you, I’ve been focusing on myself my whole life, so that isn’t anything new.”

Top Dolla can go in many directions now that he isn’t with WWE. He’s a former NFL nose tackle who has expressed interest in joining the XFL.

He also wrote the official Super Bowl song for the Kansas City Chiefs last year and is still very much involved in making music.

There had been reports of Top Dolla receiving backstage heat during his time in WWE. He responded to the reports by saying he was the one who was being disrespected.

Watch Top Dolla (AJ Francis) on One-on-One with Jon Alba:

H/T to WrestlingNewsCo for the transcribed quotes

Jade Cargill On Being Compared To Goldberg, Chyna’s Influence

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling superstar Jade Cargill appreciates fans comparing her to wrestling legend Goldberg.

The State of Florida Sports Podcast’s Tim Walters interviewed Cargill about her successful run in AEW. She kept her undefeated streak alive and won her 26th match on Jan. 28 against Julia Hart. The booking of Cargill reminds fans of Goldberg’s undefeated streak in WCW. The AEW TBS Champion finds it flattering when asked about the Goldberg comparisons.

“It’s amazing. It feels great. Being that I have no type of wrestling background prior to my first match Mar. 3. It’s breathtaking. It feels amazing for me to be compared to somebody with such a stature, and I’m blessed. Our owner Tony Khan put me in a remarkable position, and I’m grateful. I work hard, but I’m very grateful,” said Cargill.

Jade Cargill’s Undefeated Streak

AEW has treated Cargill as a dominant force in the women’s division since her first match. She teamed with NBA legend Shaquille O’ Neal to defeat Cody Rhodes and Red Velvet in her debut match on Mar. 3, 2020. Since winning the tag team match, Cargill has defeated the likes of Santana Garrett, Leyla Hirsch, and Thunder Rosa. To become the TBS Champion, Cargill also defeated Ruby Soho at AEW Dynamite on Jan. 5. At 26-0, it is unclear how long her employers will extend her winning streak.

How Chyna Influenced Jade Cargill

Later in the interview, Cargill revealed that WWE legend Chyna inspired her before getting into professional wrestling. She praised Chyna for her presence on TV and making her feel comfortable about her body, as Cargill loved to exercise and be fit growing up.

“…Chyna made you put down whatever you were doing and watch her. Her presence was unmatched. I don’t think anybody else to me, to this day, made me sit down and focus on what she was doing,” said Cargill. She continued, “…She made me love my body more than anything. She was different. She looked different than everybody else that was in the divas’ era. So she looked totally different, her build was different, her confidence was different, and I grew up very muscular, and the fact that she loved herself, she loved what she was doing, she loved her body, it made me love myself more than anything. If anything, she helped my confidence rise to a remarkable chunk, and I felt good about myself growing up.”

The AEW TBS Champion hopes to continue her success and influence young girls as Chyna did.

Dolph Ziggler Teases Match with NXT Champion Bron Breakker

Tyriece Simon
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Veteran Dolph Ziggler has an interest in challenging NXT Champion Bron Breakker.

After his loss against Angelo Dawkins on Monday Night Raw, Ziggler shared that he is unfazed by his defeat. He also commented on Breakker’s tweet poking fun at his elimination in the Men’s Royal Rumble match on Jan. 29. Ziggler threatened to confront the NXT rookie and defeat him for the NXT Championship.

“…There’s a lot of people online, who, if you saw them in real life, they wouldn’t say exactly the same thing. I mean, I think it’s Tyson or somebody, Mike Tyson probably has said, everyone runs their mouth until you see him in person. And they shut the hell up, or you punch him in the face, and that changes everything,” said Ziggler.

He continued, “…A lot of people ask me after matches like this, ‘Dolph, you good’? And I go, not good. I’m the best MFer we got. So maybe one of these days, those people that run their mouths online have to deal with me in person. So maybe, Breakker and his title, maybe I take it away from him. Maybe I stop by. Who’s to say?”

Dolph Ziggler Teasing NXT Appearance

Ziggler comments about Breakker isn’t the first time WWE teased his appearance on NXT 2.0. Alongside Bobby Roode, Ziggler confronted NXT 2.0 superstar LA Knight and hinted at competing on the developmental brand.

Ziggler isn’t the only WWE veteran that wanted to challenge an NXT 2.0 rookie. The company had AJ Styles involved in a quick feud with Grayson Waller and make appearances on NXT 2.0. Waller also showed up on Raw to promote his feud with the veteran and get fans interested in watching their match. The feud ended with Styles defeating Waller at NXT 2.0 on Jan.11.

It’s unclear if WWE will allow Ziggler to challenge Breakker for the NXT Championship. However, the company hints that Ziggler will appear on NXT 2.0 at some point.

Ronda Rousey Scheduled For Upcoming WWE Live Event

Chris Stephens
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WWE is advertising that Royal Rumble winner Ronda Rousey will compete at the March 6th live event from Laval, Quebec. This event had originally been scheduled for late December, but was postponed due to increased restrictions due to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

Rousey will team with former rival Sasha Banks against Charlotte Flair and Rousey’s training partner, Shayna Baszler. At the Royal Rumble on Saturday, Rousey seemed pleased to see Baszler when she entered in at the #30 position.

Sasha Banks and Rousey worked a program leading up to the 2019 Royal Rumble. Rousey then successfully defended the RAW Women’s Championship against Banks on that show.

Rousey is reportedly under contract with WWE through WrestleMania 39. She will be working a full schedule and it appears as though this includes working the house show tours, unless the show in Laval is an anomaly.

She’s is expected to be part of the Smackdown brand moving forward, with her likely choosing Charlotte Flair as her WrestleMania 38 opponent.

Rousey said on Monday’s RAW that she’ll make her decision regarding which championship she’ll challenge for this Friday on Smackdown. Friday’s show will take place in Oklahoma City.

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

Chris Stephens
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Nia Jax says WWE asked her to be in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match despite having been released from the company on November 4th. She also commented on what happened before Survivor Series 2018 when she concussed Becky Lynch in a segment on RAW.

WWE was doing the Smackdown vs RAW angle leading up to the Survivor Series 2018 PPV, and Lynch joined several Smackdown Superstars in an invasion segment on RAW. During a melee with the RAW roster, Lynch was concussed by a strike thrown by Nia Jax.

Jax recently appeared on Renee Paquette’s The Sessions podcast and addressed the incident.

“The producer of that match, I won’t name names, basically was like, ‘This needs to look real. Say sorry, later.’ We were all like, okay, cool,” Nia said. “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. Like for the most part, like I get wailed and whatever. I’m okay.”

“I didn’t punch her. But it did connect. I didn’t even realize it was Becky. I honestly thought it was Lana,” Nia 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.”

She added that Vince shrugged off the incident when she went to him. He reportedly just said, “Well, it’s not ballet.”

The incident ended up having a big impact on the build-up to WrestleMania 35. At Survivor Series, Lynch had been planned to face Ronda Rousey. With Lynch out, Ronda ended up facing Charlotte Flair on the show. It had at one point been Flair vs Ronda scheduled for the Mania main event. After Lynch returned, the main event of WM35 was changed to a triple threat.

Nia Jax Offered a Spot in the Women’s Royal Rumble

Jax also commented on being offered a spot in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match after having been released from the company last year. She detailed what happened when a WWE employee called and asked her about being in the match.

“I was like, ‘Fu*k no, I’m not coming back.’ and he was like, ‘Oh, well, we’d like to offer you this.’ I said, ‘First of all, I already know I’m still under my 90 days. You’re still going to be paying me anyway, so you’re not offering me anything. No, I’m not fu**ing coming back. I was like, absolutely fu**ing not.’ I was like, ‘Is this all this was?’ and he was like, ‘Yes.’ I’m like, ‘Okay, bye.’”

H/T to WrestlingNewsCO for the above transcriptions.

 

Impact Does Its Best TV Ratings In Close To A Year

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling pulled in the best ratings its done since February 2021 last week. On the heels of Mickie James being announced for the Royal Rumble match, Impact’s 1/27 show drew 182,000 fans and a 0.05 in the 18-49 demo. It’s the best rating Impact has done since the February 16th, 2021 show.

The 2/16 show last year featured the debut of Juice Robinson and David Finlay. It was also the first show since the No Surrender 2021 show that had taken place that weekend. The promotion was about 2 months into the storyline that saw Kenny Omega invade the promotion. Omega would win the Impact World Championship from Rich Swann that April.

In addition to the Mickie James “Forbidden Door” bump, Impact also has a storyline right now featuring several members of Ring of Honor invading the promotion. The Honor No More stable consists of Vincent, PCO, Mike Bennett, Matt Taven, and Maria Kanellis. Jonathan Gresham has also defended the ROH World Championship on recent Impact shows.

In the world title picture right now in Impact, Moose is gearing up to defend his championship against W. Morrissey next. They will face off for the belt on February 19th’s No Surrender 2022 show. Mickie James will also defend the Knockouts World Championship on that show against Tasha Steelz.

Ric Flair Says He & Wendy Barlow Were Not Legally Married

Michael Reichlin
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Ric Flair has announced he and Wendy Barlow are going their separate ways. On Monday, Flair issued a brief statement announcing their separation. He wrote on Twitter:

“After taking some time apart, Wendy and I have decided to go our separate ways. Please respect our privacy & our families during this time!

I will love & cherish all of our memories together forever, and I will forever be thankful for all she has done to make my life better!”

Ric Flair & Wendy Barlow

Was Ric Flair ever married to Wendy Barlow? News of their separation led to some confusion about their legal marital status.

They had a lavish wedding ceremony in September 2018 at the Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach, Florida. High-profile guests included The Undertaker, Dolph Ziggler and Dennis Rodman.

Flair regularly referred to Barlow as his wife. However, Flair now says they were never legally married In a statement to People on Monday, Flair set the record straight:

“It was just a ceremony. We were never married.”

– Ric Flair to People

Barlow told People they never applied for a marriage license.

The two have been living apart for the past six months.

Ric Flair’s Wives

Ric Flair was has been married four times. He married Leslie Goodman in August 1971. They had two children (Megan and David) before divorcing in 1983.

He married Elizabeth Harrell later that year. The marriage produced two children, Ashley (Charlotte Flair) and Reid. They divorced in 2006. He married Tiffany VanDemark in 2006. They divorced in in 2009.

Later tat year, he married Jacqueline Beems. They filed for divorce in 2012.

Riddle Was Originally Scheduled to Win the Royal Rumble (Report)

Chris Stephens
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Brock Lesnar won the men’s 2022 WWE Royal Rumble, but that was not the original plan. Just days after WWE’s latest premium live event, details are leaking out regarding the chaotic planning leading up to the Rumble.

Before WWE settled on Brock Lesnar winning, Matt Riddle and Randy Orton were each slated to be the last man standing, according to PWInsider.

In light of WWE ultimately going with Brock Lesnar, it remains to be seen if Riddle will still be in line for a main event push headed into WrestleMania.

Riddle qualified for the Elimination Chamber match last night on RAW by defeating Otis in a qualifying match. Meanwhile, his RK-Bro teammate Randy Orton was not at the show last night.

With Riddle having qualified for the Elimination Chamber match, it does not appear as though Riddle and Orton will challenge the Alpha Academy on the event for the RAW tag team titles.

It’s also worth noting that Orton did not appear in any of the backstage videos involving the scooter race between Riddle and Chad Gable on Raw.

No word yet on why Orton missed Raw. He was only in the Royal Rumble match for 2 minutes and 21 seconds after entering in at the #29 position.

He received a big ovation from his hometown St. Louis fans but was eliminated by Brock Lesnar after he and Riddle had eliminated Otis and Big E.

Heat on Shane McMahon From Royal Rumble Booking (Report)

Chris Stephens
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Shane McMahon worked as a producer for the men’s Royal Rumble match on Saturday. It’s a role that reportedly has gained him some detractors backstage in WWE.

According to a report from the Wrestling Observer, people backstage were upset with how hands-on McMahon was in booking this year’s Rumble.

“There was a lot of heat on Shane because Shane was one of the producers. In fact he was kind of the head producer of the Rumble. Then he had an idea of what the Rumble was going to be and a lot of that ended up being changed.”

Ringside News had earlier reported 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.'” 

McMahon had worked as a producer for the Rumble matches in 2020 and 2021. Reports are he was far more involved this year, however.

Shane McMahon WrestleMania Plans

The plans for Shane McMahon at WrestleMania currently are for him to have a match with Seth Rollins. Shane reportedly wanted Seth to appear in the Rumble match so they could kickstart their rivalry.

“Both Rumbles were changed over and over again,” said Dave Meltzer. “In fact, the Seth match with Roman was changed several times too. Essentially, the original finish was Roman Reigns was going to beat Seth Rollins.”

Shane McMahon at one point had been scheduled to be in the Elimination Chamber match as well. This would have furthered his rivalry with Rollins but that appears to have changed as well now.

PW Insider has reported that Shane McMahon will be a regular on the RAW roster.

Kofi Kingston on Royal Rumble Botch: ‘I’d Change Nothing’

Ryan Droste
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Kofi Kingston has become known over the years for his miraculous saves from Royal Rumble elimination. Walking barricades. Walking on his hands. Kingstons has truly done it all.

However, this year’s Royal Rumble saw Kingston attempt to save himself by falling from the ring into the ringside barrier. He was tossed off the ring by Kevin Owens and tried catching himself on the outside barrier without letting both feet touch the floor. However, his feet did touch (as shown on replay during the broadcast) and Kingston was eliminated from the match practically before he ever got started.

It was later confirmed that Kingston was indeed supposed to be in the match for much longer, including some big spots planned with Big E.

Kingston took to Instagram on Monday to comment on what went down. The comments were attached to a video clip showing his elimination.

Kingston wrote, “The past couple days on social media, I’ve gotten a lot of ‘Why would you think that was even possible?’ and ‘Why would you even try that?’ The answer to that question is quite easy: because of the potential reward. What if you were to succeed in overcoming what is deemed ‘impossible’?

“The sense of accomplishment felt when you beat the odds and brazenly defy the probabilities is purely ecstatic. Peoples questions then morph into ‘How in the world did you do that?!’ and ‘I never thought that would be possible!’

“But alas, it was not to be…this time…”

Kofi Kingston Royal Rumble 2022
Kofi Kingston at the 2022 WWE Royal Rumble

Kingston continued to expand on what happened, turning his experience into an example of how one can learn from failure.

“However, even in failure there is also a reward; one that may be more valuable than success,” he wrote. “That reward is: Self learning and growth. True strength. Failure forces you to take look within and learn about yourself. Do you mope around and sulk? Do you hide and feel sorry for yourself? Maybe for a little while. I think that’s natural. But then you use those emotions as a catalyst to push yourself and to drive yourself to be better.

“The castles of success are built in part from keystones of failure…

“Anyway, this isn’t a cry for sympathetic messages in the comments or anything lol. I just saw this as a great opportunity to encourage people out there who might be on the fence about trying something because it’s too risky or because they are afraid. Push yourself to try, even when you know the risks.

“I JUST SAW THIS AS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE OUT THERE WHO MIGHT BE ON THE FENCE ABOUT TRYING SOMETHING BECAUSE IT’S TOO RISKY OR BECAUSE THEY ARE AFRAID. PUSH YOURSELF TO TRY, EVEN WHEN YOU KNOW THE RISKS.”

Kofi Kingston on his WWE Royal Rumble botched spot

Kingston finished up his comments by writing, “In my case, all the possible risks became a reality: physical injury, the emotional weight of letting people down by literally falling short of delivering on their expectations, the risk of being laughed at and ridiculed for deciding to try the impossible.

“And still if given another chance in choosing whether or not to make the attempt…I’d change nothing. No guts, no glory. No risk it, no biscuit. No pressure, no diamonds. You gotta bet it to get it. All the quotes…

“Many great rewards come to those who push the limits…”

In the moment, it was curious that WWE even showed Kingston’s botch on replay. They could have ignored the fact that both of his feet touched the floor and moved on with whatever was planned.

However, it’s good to see Kingston using this moment to encourage others to try to accomplish things in spite of possible challenges. Kingston’s entire career has been a master class on how to achieve despite hurdles being placed in one’s way — culminating, of course, with an amazing WWE Championship victory at WrestleMania 35 over Daniel Bryan back in 2019. One of the best matches of the year and, so far, the peak of Kingston’s career.

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.

WWE RAW Results (1/31): Ronda Rousey Returns, Matches Set For Elimination Chamber

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the Heritage Bank Center in Cincinnati, OH. Ronda Rousey celebrated her Royal Rumble victory and Brock Lesnar picked his WrestleMania 38 opponent after winning the men’s Royal Rumble match. There were three Elimination Chamber Qualifier matches tonight on RAW.

RAW Results

  1. Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.
  2. The Miz def. Dominik Mysterio
  3. Austin Theory def. Kevin Owens to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match
  4. Angelo Dawkins def. Dolph Ziggler
  5. Riddle def. Otis to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match
  6. Bianca Belair def. Carmella
  7. AJ Styles def. Rey Mysterio to qualify for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Brock Lesnar Will Face Roman Reigns At WrestleMania & Will Be In The Elimination Chamber Match

Adam Pearce kicked off the show and announced that we are on the Road to WrestleMania. Pearce noted that Lashley will defend the WWE Championship inside the Elimination Chamber next month. WWE Champion Lashley interrupted and came to the ring with MVP.

Lashley claimed that he was a better mixed martial artist than Brock and a better WWE Champion. Bobby boasted about pinning Lesnar but left out the interference from Roman Reigns. Brock Lesnar then interrupted in his wrestling gear and strutted to the ring while laughing.

Brock grabbed a microphone and told MVP he will stick the cane right up his ass if he doesn’t shut up. Lesnar wondered what the pride in winning the title was for Lashley when he only won because of Reigns & Heyman. Brock told Lashley that he isn’t mad at him and it is all good. Lesnar added that it was a good contest and gave Lashley kudos. Brock spoke in 3rd person and said he now gets to choose his opponent at WrestleMania because he won the rumble.

Lesnar announced that he is going to face Roman Reigns but it is going to be title versus title and challenged Lashley to a WWE Championship match tonight. MVP tried to talk Lashley out of it as Lesnar taunted him. Lesnar called Lashley a chicken shit and Lashley stared at Brock but still left the ring. Brock continued to shout at him and call him a chicken shit again. Adam Pearce announced that Lesnar will be in the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match.

Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.

Rhea Ripley faced Nikki A. S.H. in the first match of the night. Nikki charged but Rhea showed off her power and launched Nikki across the ring. Ripley held Nikki up for a bit before planting her with a Suplex. Nikki rolled out of the ring to regroup and held her lower back in pain. Ripley chased Nikki out of the ring and she ran back inside. Nikki trapped Rhea in the ring apron and stomped her down as RAW went to a break.

Ripley battled back when RAW returned and leveled Nikki with a Clothesline. Rhea followed it up with a Dropkick and went for a Splash in the corner but Nikki got out of the way. Ripley crashed into the turnbuckle but shrugged it off and hit a Northern Lights Suplex for a near fall.

Rhea perched Nikki up on the top turnbuckle but Nikki caught her with a punch. Nikki followed it up with a Tornado DDT and went for the cover but Rhea kicked out at two. Rhea took back control and quickly put Nikki away with the Riptide for the pinfall victory.

Alexa Bliss’ Journey Back To RAW Continued

Alexa Bliss had another therapy session this week. Bliss said Lilly loved watching scary movies and we always had so much fun. The therapist gave Alexa a Lilly replica doll and told Alexa that this shouldn’t mean anything to her.

Another therapy segment aired in the third hour of the show. The therapist told Bliss that this was a replica Lilly doll bought on WWE Shop. Alexa held the doll and started getting emotional.

The Miz Outsmarted The Mysterios

The Miz faced Dominik Mysterio tonight. Rey Mysterio accompanied Dominik to the ring for the match. Miz taunted Dominik and didn’t take him seriously. Dominik responded by knocking Miz on his ass with a punch to the face. Miz went for a Clothesline but Dominik countered and sent him to the ropes.

Dominik went for the 619 but Miz rolled out of the ring. Miz shoved Rey to the floor and hit Dominik with a knee to the face. Miz pretended that Rey tripped him up and the referee kicked him out from ringside. Dominik was distracted and Miz capitalized with the Skull Crushing Finale for the pinfall victory.

Seth Rollins & Austin Theory Will Be In The Elimination Chamber Match

Kevin Owens came to the ring for an episode of the KO Show. Owens said we are on the road for the most “stupendous two nights of WrestleMania”. Kevin vowed to beat the “protected, wannabe superstar Austin Theory” tonight and qualify for the Elimination Chamber. Owens introduced Seth Rollins as his guest.

Rollins complimented Cincinnati and a “who dey!” chant broke out for the Super Bowl bound Bengals. Owens rolled footage of Roman Reigns getting himself disqualified and beating Rollins down at Royal Rumble. Kevin told Seth that he was “the Universal Champion of his heart” and Rollins thanked him. Seth turned his attention to Bobby Lashley and said he will be in the Elimination Chamber match.

Owens and Theory competed in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier match. Kevin Owens dominated the match early and lit up Theory’s chest with some chops. Theory battled back with a beautiful Dropkick and went for the cover but Owens kicked out at two. Owens set Theory up for a Cannonball but he rolled out of the ring. Owens chased after him and launched Austin into the barricade. Owens then hit the Cannonball and brought Theory into the ring.

Austin rolled back outside and regrouped against the barricade. Owens followed him again but Theory caught him with a boot to the face. Theory smashed Owens’ head into the steel steps and Owens screamed in agony as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Owens hit an Enziguri and followed it up with a DDT. Owens climbed to the top turnbuckle but Theory hit him with a forearm to the face. Owens hit a headbutt and went for a springboard Moonsault but Theory got out of the way. Austin connected with an awesome standing Blockbuster for a near fall.

Owens battled back with a Superkick and then a Swanton off the top rope for a near fall. Both superstars battled on the turnbuckle once again. Theory went for a Superplex but Owens countered into one of his own. Owens went for the cover but Austin Theory got his boot on the bottom rope at two.

Owens brought Austin out of the ring and went for a Powerbomb. Austin escaped into the ring and booted Owens in the face while he was in the ropes. Theory followed it up with the ATL for the pinfall victory. Austin Theory has qualified for the Elimination Chamber match for the WWE Championship and took a selfie to celebrate.

Angelo Dawkins def. Dolph Ziggler

Angelo Dawkins faced Dolph Ziggler tonight. Ziggler connected with a Superkick to start off the action and went for the cover but Dawkins kicked out. Angelo connected with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Splash. Ziggler connected with a DDT for a two count. Dawkins ducked under a Superkick and connected with Drill Bit for the pinfall victory.

Bianca Belair def. Carmella

Carmella faced Bianca Belair this week on RAW. Carmella rolled out of the ring right away to put on her mask. Bianca chased Carmella around the outside of the ring. Carmella stomped on Belair on the ring apron and beat her down for a bit. Carmella applied a Headlock in the middle of the ring but Bianca battled to her feet.

Bianca broke free and went for a Body Slam but Carmella escaped and slammed Belair to the mat before going back to the Headlock. Belair escaped again and connected with a Suplex. Bianca followed it up with the KOD for the pinfall victory.

Riddle Qualified For The Elimination Chamber Match

Riddle and Chad Gable had a scooter race tonight. Before the race, Riddle and Gable argued and Chad said it was a joke that a scooter race has been included in this competition. They then had a 50 lap race throughout the evening. Otis knocked Riddle over at the finish line and Gable won the race.

Otis battled Riddle following the scooter race. Adam Pearce announced that it will be an Elimination Chamber Qualifier. Otis sent Riddle to the corner and hit him with a flurry of punches. Otis followed it up with a Splash for a near fall. Otis beat Riddle down some more and knocked him out of the ring. Riddle got back in the ring but Otis hit him with a shoulder tackle and Riddle flew across the ring. Otis connected with a Body Slam and an Elbow Drop. Riddle battled back and unloaded some forearm strikes to the face.

Otis shrugged them off and dropped Riddle with a Clothesline. Riddle got in some kicks but Otis sent him across the ring with a Fallaway Slam. Riddle ducked under a Clothesline and connected with the Ripcord Knee. Riddle hit another knee strike and made his way to the top turnbuckle. Riddle hit a Floating Bro that landed on Otis’ knee and geared up for an RKO. Otis blocked it but Riddle hit another Floating Bro on Otis for the pinfall victory. Riddle has qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match.

The third competition will be a Quiz Bowl next week when RAW airs on SyFy Network.

AJ Styles Qualified For The Elimination Chamber Match

AJ Styles battled Rey Mysterio in an Elimination Chamber Qualifier match. The winner will join Lashley, Lesnar, Seth Rollins, Austin Theory, and Riddle in the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match. Styles and Rey locked up to start off the action. Rey rolled up Styles for a near fall and AJ applied a Headlock.

Rey escaped but Styles hit him with a shoulder tackle. Rey responded with a Hurricanrana that sent AJ to the corner. Mysterio hit another Hurricanrana off the middle turnbuckle but Styles responded with a Backbreaker. AJ went to throw Mysterio out of the ring but Mysterio landed on his stomach on the ring and on his feet on the floor. Styles couldn’t believe it and chased after him. Mysterio set AJ up for the sliding Splash but Styles got his knees up. AJ’s momentum was short-lived and Mysterio sent Styles into the barricade as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Styles was back in control and had Mysterio in a Headlock in the center of the ring. Mysterio escaped and connected with a Tornado DDT that sent both superstars to the mat. Rey hit another Hurricanrana and followed it up with a springboard Splash for a two count. Rey went for a Dropkick but AJ held onto the ropes and Mysterio crashed to the canvas. AJ quickly hit a Michinoku Driver and went for the cover but Mysterio kicked out.

Rey went for the 619 but Styles dodged it. Mysterio ducked the Phenomenal Forearm and connected with a kick to AJ’s face. Rey took a bit to go for the cover and Styles kicked out at two. Mysterio perched AJ up on the top turnbuckle and went for a Hurricanrana but AJ blocked it. AJ went for a Styles Clash off the top rope but Mysterio escaped. Rey hit the 619 and made his way back up to the top turnbuckle. Rey went for a Splash but AJ got out of the way. Mysterio still rolled up Styles but AJ kicked out at two and leveled Rey with a Pele Kick.

Mysterio countered a Powerbomb into a Senton and went back up to the top rope. Rey went for another Senton but AJ rolled through and connected with the Styles Clash for the pinfall victory. AJ Styles has qualified for the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match on Saturday, February 19th.

Ronda Rousey Will Pick WrestleMania Opponent On SmackDown, Lita Will Face Becky Lynch At Elimination Chamber

Ronda Rousey made her way to the ring in the final segment of the show and got a great reaction from the crowd. Rousey took a look at the WrestleMania sign and wondered if she should face Charlotte or “Rebecca”. Ronda said the biggest fight with any woman is always with her and that Rebecca is on her undercard.

RAW women’s Champion Becky Lynch said it was funny that Ronda said that she is on her undercard when she is only one that has been able to beat Rousey. Lynch joked that she wouldn’t blame Ronda for starting with an appetizer like Charlotte Flair in her first WrestleMania back. Lynch said she wanted to know who she is going to beat next and wanted an answer from Rousey. Ronda took Becky down and didn’t apply an Armbar, instead told Becky that she will get her answer this Friday on SmackDown.

Lynch got back on the microphone and started claiming Rousey was running away. Lita showed up and joked about how rude Ronda Rousey was before getting in the ring with Big Time Becks. Lita told Becky that she knew right when she met her that she would be right here in the main event. Lynch joked that she might have gotten in trouble a time or two for wearing her thong outside her pants like Lita and that she idolized her growing up. Lita then challenged Becky to a match at Elimination Chamber and Lynch declined.

Lita noted that Becky claims to never backdown from a challenge and Lynch started to make excuses as the crowd booed. Lita told Becky to just say she is scared and Becky accepted the challenge out of anger. Lita exited the ring as Becky was distraught that she just accepted a match with Lita.

Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns Confirmed For WWE WrestleMania 38

Andrew Ravens
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As expected, WWE will have Brock Lesnar challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Title at WrestleMania 38 in April. It’s unclear which night the match will take place on – April 2nd or 3rd. 

Lesnar ended up winning the 2022 Men’s Royal Rumble match to earn the right to this bout. Earlier in the night of the Royal Rumble event, Lesnar dropped the WWE Title to Bobby Lashley after Paul Heyman turned on his former client and helped Reigns’ attack on Lesnar when the referee was down as “The Tribal Chief” grabbed the title from Heyman to hit Lesnar with it. 

During the opening segment of Monday Night Raw, Lesnar interrupted the newly crowned WWE Champion. He announced the match with Reigns since it was his choice. However, since he was dressed to fight, he wanted a rematch with Lashley. He said the match with Reigns should be title vs. title. 

After MVP declined the challenge, Lesnar called Lashley a “chicken sh*t.” As a result, WWE on-screen authority figure Adam Pearce announced that Lesnar would be one of those 5 Superstars to be in the Elimination Chamber match where Lashley will defend his title on February 19th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

There will be qualifying matches including Rey Mysterio vs. AJ Styles and Kevin Owens vs. Austin Theory taking place on Raw to fill out the remaining spots in the match. 

Matt Hardy Confirms WWE Reached Out To Jeff About Returning for HOF Induction

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Matt Hardy has confirmed a report that WWE recently reached out to his brother Jeff about returning for a Hall of Fame induction.

Late in 2021, WWE released Jeff Hardy following a situation that occurred at a house show event. Jeff had competed alongside Drew McIntyre and Xavier Woods in the main event of a show in Edinburg, Texas.

Speculation ran rampant as Jeff appeared to be lethargic and exited into the crowd after giving McIntyre the hot tag. Jeff took pictures with fans and made his exit before the match finished. Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful broke the news that Jeff was let go after turning down WWE’s offer to enter a rehabilitation program. Last week, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that John Laurinaitis called Jeff about being part of this year’s Hall of Fame class.

According to Matt Hardy, the Observer report about Hardy hearing from WWE is true. During his latest Twitch stream, Matt says WWE calling Jeff about returning is a “real thing” that actually happened. Jeff wasn’t interested, but did request the results of the drug test he took around his WWE release. Lawyers had to get involved before Jeff got his hands on the results – but they came back clean.

Jeff Hardy & WWE

“He got a call, which this has been reported online, from John Laurinaitis and they had offered to induct him into the Hall of Fame and they said they wanted to do this. I know people have seen this online and that’s not made up.

“That’s a real thing that happened and he [Jeff] just asked for his drug test at the very end of the conversation and said, ‘No, I just want my drug test. I want the clean result,’ kind of the clearest thing if that makes sense and I think it should, especially given his history.

“So, after my brother and his wife dealt with WWE and the drug testing company quite a bit they actually spoke with a lawyer and kinda had them help them out a little bit. Just a couple of days ago he got the drug test back and the drug test is compliant. Everything was a negative, it passed on all levels.”

Matt later revealed that Jeff told him he simply knew his run in WWE had reached its end by the time he entered the crowd.

“I feel like Jeff was just kinda stressed out in many different ways about several different things. He just told me, confessed to me, said whenever he went over that guardrail he said he just knew he was done there.”

Reby, Matt’s wife, played devil’s advocate on behalf of some fans asking and brought up the theory that Jeff tried to get himself fired intentionally. Matt doesn’t believe that is the case.

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

Jeff Hardy Released By WWE

Velveteen Dream Says “Bullsh*t Allegations” Cost Him His WWE Career

Andrew Ravens
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Following The Velveteen Dream (Patrick Clark) getting released from WWE NXT in May 2021, there were several reports regarding the decision to let him go ranging from allegations to behavioral issues to problems with fellow wrestlers. 

Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Dream’s firing had nothing to do with the accusations or anything that was made public about him. Instead, it was due to an incident that one of the top stars reported to management.

Dream previously stated in his statement that the accusations against him from April 2020 were the reason why he was fired. He backed up that belief while speaking on Dishing Drama with Dana Wilkey. Regarding the allegations, he called them “100% bullshit.” 

This is when he opened up on the firing and cited Josh Fuller as the person who started the #FireVelveteenDream: 

“I’d like to throw this in there as well, Josh Fuller was the one that when he decided to show up on social media with his bullshit allegations, he started the hashtag Fire Velveteen Dream. That’s what it cost me. An investigation was done by WWE, our COO Paul Levesque, better known as Triple H, went on record and said there was nothing that WWE found that would incriminate me or cause any concern for the company, a company who sells to children, and I’m being accused of soliciting sex for minors. Come on. WWE found nothing. They even tried to put me back in a program with one of their top stars and then after the Fire Velveteen Dream hashtag blew up, they were doing the digital audience and someone showed up, in their place instead of a person it hashtag Fire Velveteen Dream.”

Dream continued by recalling how WWE tried to give him time and distance himself from it, but the hashtag was continuing to trend every time that he would appear on TV. 

“WWE, in the middle of cancel culture, found itself at a loss. Money talks and they have shareholders. Even if they found me to be innocent, now, I’m affecting the bottom line, at least the bottom line they have with me, the money they can make with me, the way they can utilize me on TV. That’s what it cost me. It cost me my career. It cost me a chance to not only continue a dream, but almost have guaranteed support for my family. It was horrible. As soon as I got fired, the air cleared. Everyone deleted their messages, everyone deleted their vlogs. No one had nasty, rude hateful messages to send. It all stopped. It was as if the job got done and now we can all live our lives, except for the guy playing Velveteen Dream, me.”

He hasn’t worked a match since December 23, 2020. Last July, he did have his first post-WWE booking lined up until it got canceled. 

H/T to Fightful for the transcription

Jim Ross: Bret Hart Was One Of The First Guys To Text Me During Skin Cancer Ordeal

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Jim Ross got a ton of support from Bret Hart during his battle with skin cancer.

Hart is recognized as one of the greatest wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots. He is a WWE Hall of Famer and his name is forever etched in history.

JR and Bret have developed a bond over the years from their days working together. The two remain in contact.

From One Legend To Another

During an episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross said that Bret Hart was one of the first people to reach out to him both when he was diagnosed with skin cancer and when he announced he stomped a mudhole in the damn thing and walked it dry.

“One thing I do understand is Bret Hart cause I still keep in contact with him. He was one of the first to step up when I had skin cancer and encouraged me to not give up the fight.

“One of the highlights of my day, this may sound really childish, was when I [got] a text from Bret. ‘How ya feeling? Hanging in there?’

“When I [announced being] cancer-free, he was one of the first guys to text me and congratulate me and that meant a lot to me. So, like I said that’s the respect that he has earned and deservedly so.

“It’s been a blessing in my life in a lot of ways is Bret.”

Episode 145 of Grilling JR focuses on Bret’s heel turn back in 1997. As one would expect, JR gave Bret a ton of credit for helping get the wheels in motion for Stone Cold Steve Austin’s mega push.

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

Mojo Rawley Reveals Life-Threatening Battle with COIVD-19

Michael Reichlin
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Former WWE Superstar Mojo Rawley (Dean Muhtadi) is opening up about his long-term battle with COVID-19.

According to Rawley, he almost died due to complications from the virus. Fortunately, he’s recovering. Get hyped because he plans to wrestle again in the near future.

Rawley posted a video to Instagram on Monday and detailed how bad things got for him. During the Summer 2020, his lungs were in such bad shape that he couldn’t speak for days.

“Maybe the scariest part of the whole thing was the fact that the doctors had no idea what to say because it was so new,” he recalls. “Fast forward 19 months later, and I’m not quite 100 percent, but I’m getting pretty close. My training has been kicked up and I’m feeling good enough to announce officially that I’m coming back to wrestling, baby.”

“COVID thought it got me, but it must have forgot — I stay hyped!”

– Mojo Rawley

Watch Mojo Rawley’s full statement about his battle with COVID-19 here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZZ3CLdhlSP/

WWE released Mojo Rawley on April 15th, 2021 while he was battling these serious COVID-related health issues.

Shortly after getting let go by WWE, he expressed frustration about the lack of creative direction for his character. Fans may remember he turned heel and painted his face towards the end of his run. During a July 2021 interview, he told Chris Van Vliet, “I Painted My Face Like An Idiot For Nothing.”

According to IMDB.com, he appeared in the 2021 movie Snake Eyes, a spinoff of the G.I. Joe franchise.

Melina Gets Emotional About WWE Royal Rumble Return

Michael Reichlin
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Melina was a surprise entrant in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match. The legendary Diva got emotional recapping the experience in a backstage interview shortly after the match.

WWE announced several legends would be appearing in the Women’s Rumble, but Melina was a total surprise. It was her first time back in a WWE ring in over a decade.

Melina was moved to tears recalling her return.

“Oh my goodness, you’re going to make me cry,” she began. “It’s beautiful because I haven’t been in a WWE ring in 11 years. So, I’ve been waiting for this moment and I’m telling you, the fans are so amazing. You have no idea. I feel people’s energy, so when I hear that crowd and everybody cheering, the love.. I hear it, I feel it, with all of my heart. It was so beautiful, so I thank each and every one of you guys.”

She added, “This is a blessing. I’m grateful for every opportunity I have.”

Melina & Sasha Banks

Melina Sasha Banks
Melina & Sasha Banks at the WWE Royal Rumble (2022)

Melina was the second entrant in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match. She shared the ring with Sasha Banks, who drew #1.

Melina was eliminated by Sasha Banks and admits her Royal Rumble game plan went out the window when she found herself caught up in the moment.

“It’s my first Rumble, my game plan wasn’t right, I was having a moment,” said Melina. “To face Sasha after all these years and everything, I never got to be in the ring with her. So that was a moment for me. I was thrown off, forgetting about the Rumble. That moment with Sasha, I was so invested in that, I totally forgot about the Rumble and that’s on me. That’s on me and I blame myself. Good for her, I’m glad she was smart about it. Good for her.”

Melina on the WWE Locker Room

Melina WWE Divas Champion

Melina is a true legend of the Divas era and paved the way for today’s robust WWE Women’s division. She said it was “beautiful” to be back in the women’s locker room and still feels that WWE is her home.

“Tears and hugs, reminiscing and stuff, everybody’s been awesome,” she said. “It’s beautiful to be back. This is my home, so it’s beautiful to come back and be able to be a part of it with all these women.”

Women’s wrestling has come a long way since Melina’s WWE run ended in 2011. She is proud of today’s Superstars who took women’s wrestling to where it is today.

“When I was here, never in my wildest dreams did I think women would have a Rumble. I never thought I’dre live to see the day. To be able to see it happen and to finally be a part of it, I’m so proud. I’m so proud, not of myself, but of the girls who are carrying this on and making history happen for the women who are the future of wrestling.”

Watch Melina’s emotional post-Royal Rumble interview here:

Chris Jericho on Meeting Eddie Kingston: “That’s a Superstar, He’s Gonna Be a Huge Babyface”

Chris Stephens
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Chris Jericho saw ‘money’ in Eddie Kingston the moment he set eyes on him.

Le Champion spoke with Freddie Prinze Jr. this week on the popular Wrestling with Freddie podcast. When asked about who he wants to work with AEW, Jericho heaped praise on the Mad King.

“That’s a guy from day one, the moment he walked in, I said ‘that’s a superstar, he’s gonna be a huge babyface I like his style, it’s very hard-hitting,” Jericho said of Eddie Kingston.

“He doesn’t look like a typical wrestler, he just looks like a tough guy at the bar, but his promos are above and beyond. That’s why I kind of pick and choose who I’m going to be working with.”

Jericho continued, “It has to fit in with plans that Tony Khan has and what the guys have. But the Eddie one was really something cool to me. I also deal in long-term stories, so nothing is set in stone, but that is one I’m really looking forward to that will happen.”

Kingston and Jericho seem destined for a match with one another. Kingston recently told Santana and Ortiz on AEW programming that Jericho is the reason they are not the AEW World Tag Team Champions. Last week on Dynamite, Jericho teamed with Santana and Ortiz but his Inner Circle stablemates refused to tag him in and seemed to want to handle things without him.

Eddie Kingston is currently out of action with a broken orbital bone. He is expected to return mid-February, however.

Listen to Chris Jericho’s appearance on the Wrestling With Freddie podcast:

H/T to WrestlingInc for the above transcriptions.

Matt Cardona Comments On ECW ONS References On GCW PPV

Chris Stephens
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Matt Cardona recently commented on the ECW One Night Stand 2006 references in his match against Joey Janela on The WRLD On GCW PPV. Both shows emanated from New York’s Hammerstein Ballroom. Cardona was on Busted Open Radio recently and talked about his match with Janela.

“There were times in that match where I just had to turn away from the camera because I felt like I was smiling because I was having so much fun in there. I said it last time, Mikey Whipwreck brought me to ECW One Night Stand 2005, and I’ve always wanted to wrestle in that building. I never thought I would have that opportunity,” Cardona said. “To be there it was everything I hoped it would be and more.”

During the GCW show, Cardona wore a t-shirt that had a “If Cardona Wins We Riot” sign printed on it similar to the “If Cena Wins We Riot” sign from ONS 2006. A fan also had the “If Cardona Wins We Riot” sign in the stands during the GCW PPV.

“I had made a t-shirt, ‘If Cardona wins we riot,’ and then someone had the sign,” Cardona said. “People thought I planted that sign, like no. Fans really brought that.” he continued.

Cardona and Janela re-created several spots from the Rob Van Dam vs. John Cena match at One Night Stand. Cardona tossed his t-shirt into the crowd, much like Cena did in 2006. At the ECW ONS show, the fans tossed Cena’s shirt back at him several times. At The WRLD On GCW, one fan ripped up Cardona’s shirt before tossing it back.

At ECW ONS 2006, Edge speared Cena into a table while wearing a motorcycle helmet leading to the finish. At the WRLD on GCW, Brian Myers speared Janela into a door while wearing a similar looking motorcycle helmet, again leading to the finish of the match.

“Because I am such a diehard ECW fan, so that building meant so much to me. I never got to go there for the real ECW shows, but like I said, I saw One Night Stand. I feel like that was the final ECW show. That night was just incredible, but for me, this show at the Hammerstein was even more incredible. Because I got the little tease in 2005, just being a fan hoping one day I get to wrestle there. And then I finally did it and it was everything I thought it would be.”

H/T To WrestlingInc for the above transcriptions.

Kurt Angle Says He’s Returning To WWE TV Soon

Chris Stephens
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Kurt Angle is set to become part of WWE programming once again in the near future. Angle revealed on his podcast, “The Kurt Angle Show” that WWE reached out to him recently about playing a role on television.

“They want me to be involved in the show for the next month or so. I’m really excited about it, so we’ll see what’s in store for me,” Angle said on the show.

Angle was backstage during the Rumble Saturday night in St. Louis. He was not used on the show, however.

Angle didn’t reveal what he might be doing in WWE soon. Although this is just speculation, Angle could potentially be aligned with the new RAW tag team champions, the Alpha Academy Otis and Chad Gable. If the Steveson brothers are ready to appear on WWE programming, Angle could also be paired with them.

Back in November, Angle said on the Pancakes and Powerslams podcast that Gable Steveson is someone he would like to manage.

“Which superstar today would I like to be the manager of? Gable Steveson!” Angle said. “I think Gable will be very important to WWE in the future.”

“He has all the credentials to succeed in this business, I can assure you. His charisma, his personality and his character are suitable to make a bang in perspective. If he finds the right confidence and surrounds himself with trusted people, the sky is really the only limit for this guy,” Angle continued.

Angle spoke about Chad Gable during a recent Q&A session on AdFreeShows.com.

“Chad is still underrated. That poor kid, because of him being undersized, he hasn’t gotten much of a chance that he should. And I really believe that if they gave him that shot, he would be another great athlete like AJ Styles. AJ was undersized too, and I think that Chad Gable would have the same effect.”

Lio Rush Injured At PWG Battle of Los Angeles (Updated)

Chris Stephens
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Lio Rush had to be taken to the ER following a match at PWG’s Battle of Los Angeles event last night. Rush had defeated Buddy Matthews via disqualification when Matthews kept up the attack after the match and delivered a curb stomp to Rush. Later in the show, it was revealed to the live crowd that Rush was injured and would be replaced in the semi-finals.

“Just being honest with you guys here. I’m not good. But i will be good. And when I’m back, I’ll be dangerous,” Rush wrote on Twitter.

It is believed the injury occurred during the Curb Stomp. Some on social media have suggested that fans throwing drinks into the ring may have led to the injury.

https://twitter.com/IamLioRush/status/1488028578063085571

The injury comes at a time when Rush is expected to become a free agent next month. His AEW contract expires on February 14th and he’ll be a free agent after that.

Update: Lio Rush has provided an update on his condition. Rush says he suffered “clean dislocation” to his left shoulder. He’ll be undergoing an MRI in 2-3 weeks and is hoping doctors don’t find a tear or any severe ligament damage.

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Toni Storm Announced For First Post WWE Booking Alongside Bray Wyatt

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former WWE star Toni Storm has been announced for her first post-WWE appearance at the WrestleCon convention in Dallas, Texas during the WrestleMania 38 weekend.

The former NXT UK women’s champion will be joined by a number of fellow WWE alumni, including names such as Windham Rotunda aka Bray Wyatt, Kurt Angle, Paul Wight, Killer Kross and more.

FKW yKKXsAUqleV?format=jpg&name=small

The WrestleCon convention this year will take place from March 31 to April 2. Aside from wrestling shows featuring talents from various companies, it will also host live podcasts, Q&A sessions, and more.

After a 4 year long run with WWE, Toni Storm asked for her release from the promotion on December 29 last year. Her request was immediately granted.

In an interview days prior to her release, the former champion had opened up about the lack of opportunity after her main roster debut on SmackDown in July.

Storm wasn’t mentioned on WWE TV for weeks at a time after her call-up. She had admitted that sitting in the catering was not a good feeling.

While there aren’t a lot of details surrounding the circumstances leading to her release, reports suggest that burnout was essentially the reason why the female star decided to quit the company.

Potential Reason Behind Toni Storm’s WWE Departure
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