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Matt Hardy: Jeff Hardy Wants to ‘Right the Wrongs’ in WWE Return

Anutosh Bajpai
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Matt Hardy: Jeff Hardy Wants to ‘Right the Wrongs’ in WWE Return

Matt Hardy says his brother Jeff Hardy wants to ‘right the wrongs’ with his WWE return.

The Hardy Boyz are set to make a return to WWE programming next week after years. The duo will be representing TNA Wrestling and face off against Tavion Heights and Myles Borne at the February 25 edition of NXT.

The Broken One opened up about his excitement about the upcoming appearance on his podcast. He revealed that the whole thing came together very quickly and he is not sure where it is headed:

“Really excited about this, man. All this stuff — even us popping up and responding to that challenge on NXT, that was a very last-minute thing. So it’s going to be interesting. It’s going to be fun.

I don’t know where this ride’s going. I really don’t want to know where this route is going in all capacities. Because I want, especially whatever we end up doing, I want everything to be as natural and as organic and as real as possible, as authentic as possible.”

He Wants To Show Them Who He Is: Matt Hardy

For Jeff Hardy, the return would be a sort of redemption after his infamous walkout during a live event match that led to his WWE release in December 2021. After his failed AEW run, the Charismatic Enigma has expressed interest in making a return to the company in recent times believing that he could retire CM Punk before going into Hall of Fame.

Matt Hardy also revealed how his brother feels about the comeback claiming that Jeff wants to use the opportunity to show everyone who he really is:

“He’s very happy to be going back and I feel like he wants to right the wrongs, he wants to leave on a good note, no more erratic behavior. He wants to go back and show them who he is.”

The Attitude Era star expressed the belief that WWE waited this long to do something with The Hardys as part of the TNA deal because they wanted to see how Jeff fared in his TNA run.

The Rock Reveals Wrestling Moment That Broke His Spirits

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
The Rock Reveals Wrestling Moment That Broke His Spirits

The Rock has revealed the wrestling moment that almost made him quit the business.

The Great One’s misadventures as Rocky Maivia is a well-known chapter of wrestling history. Despite being pushed as a babyface in his early days, the fans did not connect with The Hollywood star’s first wrestling persona at all. WWE put the IC title on him only a few months after his debut in February 1997, but the fans kept booing him out of the building everywhere he went.

The People’s Champion remembered this time when asked about a moment that broke his spirits during the post-SmackDown press conference. He specifically remembered getting booed out of the building during his WrestleMania 13 match with Rikishi:

“I go into WrestleMania in Chicago at the Horizon at that time. It was sold out and I was the Intercontinental champion. And that entire arena booed me and they were chanting Rocky sucks. And it was very hard. I was just a kid, but also, I was what’s called a babyface, in wrestling binocular you’re a good guy. You’re not supposed to get booed.

That place, they [booed the shit out of me] that night. So much so I remember being on the mat and the guy I was wrestling was called the Sultan. He’s actually a family member of mine. He’s my cousin Rikishi. I remember him holding me in this wrestling move and he goes, ‘Don’t worry about it. Don’t listen to them, it’s okay.’ Meanwhile, there’s 15,000 people chanting ‘Rocky sucks.’ It’s like, man.”

That Was My WrestleMania Moment: The Rock

The Rock revealed he was making $150,000 per year at the time and didn’t have a lot of money left over after paying his taxes and various bills. When Vince McMahon decided to take the title off him after his WrestleMania match, he seriously considered switching careers to MMA:

“So then that was a big turning point for me. That was in March of 1997. And you think a year earlier I was, I just got cut from the CFL, the Canadian Football League. I had no money; I had seven bucks. Now I’m champion and everything is supposed to be amazing and I was getting booed out of the building.

Then that was at WrestleMania. That was my WrestleMania moment. After that night, I had a meeting with Vince. He said ‘Things aren’t working out. I’m going to take the title off you.’ A week later I got hurt. I tore a ligament in my knee. He said you got to go home. I went home for the rest of the summer and I didn’t know what I was going to do.

In that summer, I thought ‘Man I’ve got really no money. I’m getting booed out of the building. I went to WrestleMania. I don’t know what to do.’ At that time I thought maybe I should consider a career in MMA. At that time there was a company called; it was called Pride in Japan. They were making a lot of money and I thought maybe I should do that.”

Thankfully, The Rock did not pull the trigger on this career change. When McMahon decided to bring him back as a heel, the former world champion asked to be given 5 minutes of promo time. Vince only agreed to give him 2 minutes and that became the turning point of his career.

The Rock Reveals Original WrestleMania 42 Announcement Plans

Thomas Lowson
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0
The Rock Reveals Original WrestleMania 42 Announcement Plans

On the February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown, The Rock shared that WrestleMania 42 will take place in April 2026 from New Orleans, Louisiana. On the post-SmackDown press conference, The Rock shared that this announcement was supposed to come earlier this year.

“We were going to be part of the Super Bowl and make the announcement at the Super Bowl. We had a couple of hiccups that we couldn’t make that happen.”

The Rock didn’t share what “hiccups” came in WWE’s way, but the Super Bowl did feature plenty of wrestling involvement. Vince McMahon made a rare public outing to attend the game and was joined by The Undertaker and his son Shane McMahon. WWE Hall of Famers The Bella Twins were spotted with Britt Baker, leading fans to speculate as to Baker’s future, months after her most recent appearance for Tony Khan’s promotion.

Khan himself was at the big game and arrived on Kismet, his father’s super yacht. TBS Champion Mercedes Mone also attended the Super Bowl, where she was spotted with Swerve Strickland.

Plans remain scarce for WrestleMania 42 but The Rock’s involvement on this week’s SmackDown has led many to speculate that he will have a role with WrestleMania 41 this April in Las Vegas. With an appearance at Elimination Chamber confirmed, fans can expect to see much more of the Final Boss very soon.

The Rock Wants To Own ‘The Soul’ Of Cody Rhodes, Confirms Next WWE Appearance

Vince McMahon, WWE Lawyers File Opposition To Janel Grant Amended Complaint

Thomas Lowson
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0

Lawyers representing Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis have formally opposed Janel Grant’s amended lawsuit, which accuses McMahon of sexual abuse and trafficking. On Friday, February 21, legal teams for the defendants filed motions in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut challenging the amended complaint by Grant’s attorneys filed last month.

McMahon’s counsel, Jessica Rosenberg, contended that the revised lawsuit was filed in “bad faith.” She added that Grant should adhere to the non-disclosure agreement (NDA) she signed prior to initiating the original lawsuit.WWE’s legal representatives argued that the amended complaint did not counter their argument that this matter should be resolved through private arbitration. WWE, McMahon, and Laurianaitis have all argued for arbitration.

Grant’s amended filing introduced new evidence and allegations, asserting that certain WWE personnel were aware of McMahon’s alleged misconduct and participated in its cover-up. While her original lawsuit against WWE, Laurinaitis, and McMahon, was 68 pages in length, the amended version is now at 101 pages.

Janel Grant’s battle with the three parties has gained widespread attention, especially after Brock Lesnar was named in the updated complaint. The amended filing alleges alleges that McMahon attempted to involve Lesnar in the alleged misconduct against Grant.

McMahon stepped down from WWE in January 2024 though has denied all claims of wrongdoing, instead insisting that he and Grant had a consensual relationship. Stay tuned for updates on this case and the wider effects it could have on WWE and the wrestling world.

Feds Drop Investigation Into Vince McMahon, Claims Lawyer

The Rock Says Cody Rhodes Match Doesn’t Need To Happen

Thomas Lowson
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0
The Rock Says Cody Rhodes Match Doesn’t Need To Happen

The Rock’s beef with Cody Rhodes may not culminate with a match between the two, according to the Final Boss. Speaking after his appearance on WWE SmackDown, The Rock shared his mentality when it comes to going one-on-one with the American Nightmare.

“The Final Boss and Cody Rhodes, it’s not about the WWE title, it isn’t about a match, it isn’t about bleeding or anything like that that’s part of our world. It never has to culminate into a match.“

The Rock shared that the fact that his feud with Rhodes is so ‘personal’ that it may not end with a match is a “very special place” from a creative standpoint. The Brahma Bull is ready to have “fun” with Rhodes, even if a match isn’t in the works, and The Rock also highlighted that this angle gives the chance to develop “creatively, character-wise.”

The Rock’s comments about a match, or lack thereof, contrast greatly with early plans for WrestleMania 41. While for a time, a match between the two seemed a guarantee, it now appears that the pair’s WrestleMania 40 tag match will be the only time the two lock horns in a match.

On SmackDown, The Rock said he wants Cody’s soul, and in essence, intends for the American Nightmare to work under him and do his bidding. The Rock has given Rhodes until Elimination Chamber to give an answer, an event that The Rock will be in attendance for.

Elimination Chamber will also see Rhodes learn who he’ll face at WrestleMania 41, but with The Rock’s involvement, fans can’t count out meddling from The Final Boss. No matter what’s to come, WWE Elimination Chamber will prove to be a pivotal point on Rhodes’ road to WrestleMania.

Cody Rhodes: WrestleMania 41 Will Without A Doubt Top This Year’s Event

Alexa Bliss Declares “I Am In Charge” Amid Wyatt Sicks Speculation

Thomas Lowson
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0
Alexa Bliss Declares “I Am In Charge” Amid Wyatt Sicks Speculation

Alexa Bliss made her return at the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble, and now the Goddess of WWE has shared her big plans. After a two-year absence, Bliss is back, and is ready to take control.

The February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown included a video segment with Bliss, where she reflected on her time away. She acknowledged that while the faces in WWE may have changed, she remains the same. She also emphasized her experience with the Elimination Chamber, reminding everyone that she’s won the match before. Bliss then promised her opponents in next weekend’s Women’s Elimination Chamber match a “hell they haven’t experienced before.”

Bliss ended by declaring that SmackDown’s women’s division belongs to her and that she’s in charge. The segment featured glitchy cuts, similar to what fans have seen from The Wyatt Sicks. Fans have already begun to speculate that Bliss’ comment about being in charge could be hinting at a major role with Uncle Howdy’s faction.

The Wyatt Sicks have seemingly taken an interest in Bliss, with the group interrupting Bliss’ promo during the Februrary 14, edition of SmackDown. Since the group arrived in WWE, it had been speculated that Bliss would join, and now fans can expect a major role for the former WWE Women’s Champion going forward.

Trish Stratus Appears On SmackDown, Attacked By Nia Jax

Thomas Lowson
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0
Trish Stratus Appears On SmackDown, Attacked By Nia Jax

WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus was a part of the February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown, but the Canadian legend was left hurting in New Orleans. On the show, Tiffany Stratton defeated Candice LeRae, but was attacked by Candice and Nia Jax after the match. Though Stratus made the save, Nia and Candice were able to get the upperhand on the WWE Hall of Famer and WWE Women’s Champion. The segment ended with Jax laying out Stratton and Stratus with an Annihilator.

Stratus’ appearance comes ahead of her return to the ring at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025, where she will team with Stratton in tag-team action. The show will take place in Trish’s home town of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on March 1.

Stratus’ most recent match was as part of the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble match which was on by Charlotte Flair, Stratton’s WrestleMania 41 opponent. Whether she competes at Elimination Chamber or not, Stratus remains one of WWE’s most iconic women, and continues to have the fans on her side.

Trish Stratus Reveals WWE Debut Tribute At 2025 Royal Rumble

The Rock Wants To Own ‘The Soul’ Of Cody Rhodes, Confirms Next WWE Appearance

Anutosh Bajpai
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0
The Rock Wants To Own ‘The Soul’ Of Cody Rhodes, Confirms Next WWE Appearance

The Rock has made a tall demand from Cody Rhodes.

The Final Boss made his WWE return at tonight’s SmackDown from Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. As expected, he first announced WrestleMania 42 returning to New Orleans in 2026.

The Great One then called out the Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes. When the champ came out, Rock first discussed how the two have become friends after their WrestleMania encounter last year and shared a drink at Raw’s Netflix premiere.

The Rock Wants Cody Rhodes’ Soul?

Things took an interesting turn after this, however, as The Hollywood star reminded Cody that he was a TKO board member and owned everything. He then presented an offer to the American Nightmare.

The Rock declared that he wanted Rhodes to be ‘his champion,’ claiming that it would help the former AEW star become an even bigger superstar than the Great One himself. The megastar gave Cody some time to think about his offer, declaring that he’ll return at Elimination Chamber for his answer.

The segment ended with the 52-year-old pointing at Cody saying that he wanted to own ‘it.’ When Rhodes mistook it for his championship belt, Rock clarified that he wanted to own Cody’s ‘soul.’

What being The Rock’s champion would mean for Cody Rhodes is unclear. We’ll have to tune in to Elimination Chamber from Toronto on March 1 to find some answers.

WrestleMania 42 Heads to New Orleans: The Rock Announces Superdome Mega-Event for 2026

Michael Reichlin
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WrestleMania 42 Heads to New Orleans: The Rock Announces Superdome Mega-Event for 2026

WWE today announced that WrestleMania 42 will take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, 2026. The announcement was made during Friday Night SmackDown by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

The two-night premium live event will mark WrestleMania’s return to New Orleans, where the Caesars Superdome has previously hosted several historic WWE events. The venue, a cornerstone of major sporting and entertainment events in the Southeast, offers state-of-the-art facilities and can accommodate over 70,000 attendees.

Additional details about WrestleMania Week events, including WWE Hall of Fame, SmackDown, and Monday Night Raw, will be announced in the coming months.

Drew McIntyre Had His Knee Drained Before Wrestling on SmackDown

Michael Reichlin
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Drew McIntyre Had His Knee Drained Before Wrestling on SmackDown

Drew McIntyre revealed on Instagram that he had fluid drained from his knee ahead of the February 21st episode of WWE SmackDown. Despite the setback, he competed in an 11-minute match against Jimmy USO.

The bout featured key moments, including Jimmy landing a suicide dive and a spear for a near fall. The match ended when Jimmy countered McIntyre’s attempted reverse Alabama Slam into a victory roll for the pin.

Following the loss, McIntyre attacked Jimmy in frustration, declaring that he meant nothing to him. He attempted to slam Jimmy’s head into the ring post before being stopped by officials, but later returned to deliver a Claymore Kick while laughing at his fallen opponent. While the match was solid, its post-match chaos overshadowed the in-ring action.

McIntyre is now set to compete in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match on March 1 at WWE Elimination Chamber, where his physical condition will be closely watched.

Mike Tyson to Appear at WWE World During WrestleMania 41 Weekend

Michael Reichlin
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Mike Tyson to Appear at WWE World During WrestleMania 41 Weekend

WWE Hall of Famer and boxing legend Mike Tyson will be a special guest at WWE World in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 20, as part of WrestleMania weekend festivities.

WWE World, a five-day fan experience, offers attendees the chance to meet WWE Superstars, participate in autograph sessions, and enjoy exclusive photo opportunities. Tyson’s appearance adds to an already exciting lineup, with more announcements expected in the coming weeks.

General admission tickets are available now, while tickets for premium experiences, including meet-and-greets with Tyson and other WWE stars, will be released soon.

With WrestleMania weekend promising non-stop action, WWE World is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans in Las Vegas.

WWE Unveils WrestleMania 41 Week Schedule in Las Vegas

Carmella No Longer Under WWE Contract After 12 Years

Michael Reichlin
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Carmella No Longer Under WWE Contract After 12 Years

Former WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Carmella is no longer under contract with WWE following the expiration of her deal, marking the end of her 12-year tenure with the company. The 37-year-old wrestler had been inactive since March 2023 due to severe medical complications after childbirth, which ultimately prevented her from making a return to the ring.

Medical Challenges Hindered Comeback

Carmella, whose real name is Leah Van Dale, faced significant health issues following the birth of her first child with WWE commentator Corey Graves in November 2023. She suffered from nerve damage and foot-related complications that made an in-ring return impossible.

In a recent update, she shared that she had been consulting with neurologists and spine specialists in hopes of recovering. However, despite more than 14 months of rehabilitation, she was unable to compete again before her contract expired.

Carmella Talks Health, Motherhood, and WWE Comeback

Carmella’s WWE Legacy

During her time with WWE, Carmella achieved several major milestones. She became the first-ever Ms. Money in the Bank, held the SmackDown Women’s Championship for 131 days, and captured the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside Queen Zelina. Her last active period in WWE was in 2022 before taking maternity leave.

Carmelo Hayes Calls Out John Cena: ‘I’ll Be Seeing You in the Ring’

Michael Reichlin
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Carmelo Hayes Calls Out John Cena: ‘I’ll Be Seeing You in the Ring’

Carmelo Hayes is making it clear—he’s coming for John Cena. During an interview with MuscleManMalcolm for Muscle Memory, the former NXT Champion reflected on his brief but memorable interaction with Cena in NXT. While it was a huge moment, Hayes sees it as just the beginning.

“Cena, you know, as all of us… you’re about the same age as me… we looked up to him. He was our superhero,” Hayes said. “Getting to do that thing with John Cena was really cool.”

But Hayes isn’t just satisfied with a backstage moment—he’s looking to step into the ring with the 16-time world champion. He knows John Cena is busy man with a long line of people eager to be one of his final opponents. However, Melo isn’t going to be left out.

“Even at that time, I said, ‘I’m going to be seeing you.’ Most people can’t [see him], but I will. I’ll be seeing you across the ring, and tomorrow might be the day. And if it ain’t tomorrow, it’ll be the day after that. So we’re going to make it work.”

Hayes’ confidence is undeniable, and with Cena’s in-ring career winding down in 10 months, a potential match could be a passing-of-the-torch moment for the young star.

If the 16-time champ is looking for a fresh challenge in his final year as an active Superstar, Hayes is more than ready to step up.

Tony Khan Believed Ricky Starks Was Going To Leave For WWE Because Of Cody Rhodes

Andrew Ravens
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Tony Khan Believed Ricky Starks Was Going To Leave For WWE Because Of Cody Rhodes

Former AEW star Ricky Starks made his debut in WWE NXT on last week’s episode after being sidelined by AEW for months. Starks had requested his release from AEW, but CEO Tony Khan initially refused to grant it.

It was widely believed that Starks would have to wait out the remainder of his contract before pursuing other opportunities, including the possibility of going to WWE. During this time, Starks made it clear that he wanted to wrestle, even booking independent dates while being kept off AEW TV. 

According to the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that Khan expected Starks to leave AEW for WWE once his contract expired due to his close friendship with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. 

This week on NXT, Starks introduced his new ring name: Ricky Saints. Following the show, he appeared on Busted Open Radio, where he denied that his AEW status had been affected by his past appearances at WWE events, such as the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania to support Rhodes.

Starks emphasized that Khan had approved his presence at those events and claimed that certain AEW veterans interfered with his creative direction.

Mark Henry: Injury Delayed His First World Heavyweight Title by 3 Years

Michael Reichlin
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0
Mark Henry: Injury Delayed His First World Heavyweight Title by 3 Years

Mark Henry’s journey to the top of WWE wasn’t a straight path—it was filled with setbacks, pain, and resilience.

Henry joined WWE on a ten-year contract after the 1996 Olympics, but broke his leg in his first year. Through the 2000s, he became a dominant force, capturing the ECW Championship in 2008 at Night of Champions by defeating Kane and Big Show, making him the fourth African-American world champion in WWE history.

However, plans for him to win the more-prestigious WWE World Heavyweight championship were sadly derailed due to another injury.

Speaking with Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at the For The Love of Wrestling 2025 convention, the former World Heavyweight Champion revealed that he was originally slated to win the World Heavyweight title three years before his 2011 reign, but an untimely injury derailed those plans.

“I was supposed to be Champion three years earlier, but I got injured… It was good that I was still relevant and talented enough to get another opportunity.”

Despite the delay, Henry’s Hall of Pain persona became one of the most dominant and memorable runs in WWE history, proving that persistence pays off.

Henry also discussed one of the most physically punishing moments of his career—the infamous 2011 ring collapse during his match against The Big Show at Vengeance.

“The weight of both of us made it faster for whatever reason, and when it hit, it was just really explosive… My teeth clattered together, it felt like lightning struck me.”

Moments like these remind fans just how brutal professional wrestling can be, even for powerhouses like Henry. His story is a testament to perseverance and the physical toll that comes with the pursuit of greatness.

Today, Mark Henry’s legacy continues to grow through his son Jacob, who recently signed with WWE’s NIL program. Jacob will compete as a heavyweight for the University of Oklahoma’s prestigious wrestling team while pursuing his WWE dreams.

The father-son duo recently appeared together on RAW in Austin, Texas, marking Mark’s return to WWE programming after a three-year absence.

With Jacob’s impressive high school wrestling record and his aspirations to main event WrestleMania, the Henry family’s impact on professional wrestling is poised to continue for another generation.

Rising NJPW Star Is On The Radar Of AEW And WWE

Andrew Ravens
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Rising NJPW star Kevin Knight has caught the attention of several top promotions, including AEW and WWE.

According to Fightful, Knight recently spoke with AEW CEO Tony Khan and Rocky Romero following his appearance for ROH. He is also in discussions with NJPW regarding a potential new contract. Additionally, Knight has expressed interest in exploring opportunities with WWE before making a final decision about his future. However, it remains unclear whether any formal discussions have taken place between WWE and Knight.

In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that there has been significant industry talk about Knight potentially joining WWE. However, Meltzer has not yet confirmed whether he has officially signed with the company.

Following the expiration of his NJPW contract in early January, Knight’s next move has been a major topic of speculation. Since losing the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Titles, he has remained active, competing in tapings for MLW, ROH/AEW, and returning to GCW/JCW for the first time since 2023.

Knight began his NJPW career as a Young Lion, the promotion’s developmental system for training and building future stars. He graduated from the system in 2022 and has since become a two-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, frequently teaming with KUSHIDA as part of the Intergalactic Jet Setters.

Scott Steiner’s Son Brock Rechsteiner Signs WWE NIL Deal

Thomas Lowson
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0
Scott Steiner’s Son Brock Rechsteiner Signs WWE NIL Deal

WWE has another Steiner to its name as Brock Rechsteiner, the son of Scott Steiner, has reportedly signed a WWE Next-In-Line contract. During an interview with Jim Varsollone, Brandon Rechsteiner shared that his brother Brock has inked a deal with the promotion. Brock was offered a NIL deal in January 2025 and now fans can expect to see much more of the second-generation athlete.

Brock Rechsteiner is the latest member of his family to ink a contract with WWE. For years, his father Scott and uncle Rick competed for WWE and the duo would become multi-time Tag Team Champions. In more recent times, Brock’s cousin Bron Breakker has been asserting himself as a two-time NXT Champion and two-time (and current) Intercontinental Champion.

WWE launched its NIL program in 2021 with Olympian Gable Steveson being the first recruit. While Steveson’s WWE career would amount to very little, fans are seeing one NIL signing succeed on a weekly basis. Oba Femi was an NIL signing and has since risen the ranks to become WWE NXT Champion.

It remains to be seen if Brock Rechsteiner reaches the success of Femi or of his family members in WWE. Whatever comes, the young Steiner is ready to make an impact on WWE’s NIL contract.

Matt Riddle Eyeing WWE Return: “I Never Would Have Left”

Thomas Lowson
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0
Matt Riddle Eyeing WWE Return: “I Never Would Have Left”

Matt Riddle hopes to one day be called a WWE Superstar again, but knows that the decision will not be his to make. Speaking on Stories With Brisco and Bradshaw, Riddle made it clear he’d return to WWE in a heartbeat if given the chance.

“I would love to go back to WWE one day eventually, maybe soon. But the thing is, whatever they want. It’s not up to me, that’s their decision.”

Riddle “never would have left” WWE had he been given the chance to stay, and wishes that his exit in September 2023 had never occurred. As he waits for WWE to give him a call, the reigning MLW World Heavyweight Champion has big plans in mind.

“I’m going to win every championship possible, I’m going to wrestle everywhere under the sun, in every country.”

Riddle had asserted himself as a top act in WWE, even challenging for World Championships on occassion. By 2023 though, a series of controversies, including an altercation at JFK airport, resulted in the ‘Original Bro’ being cut. These releases, which also saw Nic Nemeth and Mustafa Ali cut, were the first following the official launch of TKO Group Holdings.

Whether Riddle returns to WWE or not, he is focused on establishing himself as a top draw in wrestling, no matter the promotion. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Matt Riddle and his dreams to return to WWE superstardom.

Matt Riddle Wishes He Could Have Finished The RK Bro Run In WWE

Latest On Rumored Jacob Fatu vs. Solo Sikoa WrestleMania Match

Andrew Ravens
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Latest On Rumored Jacob Fatu vs. Solo Sikoa WrestleMania Match

All signs initially pointed to WWE moving forward with plans for a Jacob Fatu vs. Solo Sikoa match at WrestleMania 41. This direction was first reported by WrestleVotes, which stated that the match was finalized after WWE decided that Roman Reigns would face Solo Sikoa at the WWE Raw on Netflix premiere on January 6.

However, the plans for this bout are not yet locked in. In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported:

“Regarding rumors of Fatu vs. Sikoa, it is right now not booked, and one of them has a different booking, but of course this can change.”

Solo Sikoa made his main roster debut at Clash at the Castle in 2022, aligning with his cousins, The Usos and Roman Reigns, in The Bloodline. As the group’s enforcer, he was known for his silent but menacing presence. After WrestleMania 40, with The Usos splitting up and Reigns taking time off, Solo took on the role of Head of the Table and Tribal Chief.

To solidify his dominance, Solo brought in Jacob Fatu and The Tongas. Fatu has been presented as a powerful and unpredictable force, adding another layer of intensity to the group. Solo and Jacob Fatu are cousins, sharing a strong bond as members of the Anoa’i family.

WrestleMania 41 will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Backlash Over WWE SmackDown Cuts as The Rock Returns

Thomas Lowson
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0

The Rock’s return on tonight’s WWE SmackDown will be exciting for fans, but will come at the expense of many on the roster. WrestleVotes reports that WWE has adjusted the line-up to the February 21, SmackDown following the announcement of the Final Boss. There have been “rumblings” that a six-man tag-team match, pitting Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman vs. Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga has been cut.

A match pitting Liv Morgan against Naomi has also reportedly been cut, angering many fans of both women. On X, several fans shared their issue with the two women losing their time to a part-time performer in an already male-dominated program.

This backlash comes amid a wider conversation about the treatment of women in WWE. Several women in WWE are said to be frustrated with their current positions in the promotion. Some have also pointed out that the introduction of mid-card championships for the women have done little to help. The hashtag #WWEWomenDeserveBetter trended on X, as fans shared their agreement with those in the company who are feeling frustrated.

The Rock is one of the biggest stars in entertainment, and having him on SmackDown during WrestleMania season has left many excited. With that said, there are plenty of fans who are far from happy with the Final Boss taking the spotlight from full-time talent.

The Rock Awarded Nearly $14 Million Worth Of TKO Stock

WWE Taps UFC Lobbyists in Nevada Ahead of Las Vegas WrestleMania 41

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Taps UFC Lobbyists in Nevada Ahead of Las Vegas WrestleMania 41

WWE has strengthened its position in Nevada by engaging Carson City-based lobbyists Bill Gregory and Lesley Pittman, as the company prepares for WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas this April.

The strategic move sees WWE tapping into Gregory and Pittman’s extensive experience in Nevada’s entertainment and combat sports sectors, notably through their existing relationship with UFC. Both organizations now operate under the TKO Group Holdings banner following their September 2023 merger.

Gregory and Pittman’s dual representation of WWE and UFC could prove particularly valuable as WWE navigates Nevada’s regulatory landscape. Their expertise spans various areas crucial to large-scale entertainment events, including venue operations, broadcast rights, and compliance with state athletic commission requirements.

The timing of these hires is significant, coming just months before WrestleMania 41, WWE’s flagship event, makes its second appearance in Las Vegas. The two-night spectacle, set for April 19-20 at Allegiant Stadium, is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors and generate substantial economic impact for the region.

Industry analysts suggest the lobbyists could help WWE optimize its regulatory compliance and business operations in Nevada, particularly as the company explores opportunities for expanded presence in the entertainment capital. Their work might include facilitating permits for future events, addressing regulatory requirements, and ensuring smooth operations for broadcasts and live performances.

The move also indicates TKO Group Holdings’ broader strategy to consolidate its influence in Nevada, a key market for both WWE and UFC operations. With both organizations now sharing the same lobbying representation in Carson City, TKO can present a unified approach to state legislators and regulatory bodies.

WWE’s investment in local government relations underscores Las Vegas’s growing importance in the company’s live event strategy, as well as Nevada’s significance to TKO Group Holdings’ overall business objectives.

Source: Based on reporting from The Nevada Independent

Chelsea Green on Making WWE History: ‘I Could Have Never Even Imagined This’

Michael Reichlin
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Chelsea Green on Making WWE History: ‘I Could Have Never Even Imagined This’

Chelsea Green has never been one to follow a conventional path in her career, but even she couldn’t have predicted where her journey would take her. As the inaugural WWE Women’s United States Champion, Green is making history every time she steps into the ring—something she admits she never saw coming. During a recent conversation with YouTube personality Conman167, Green said:

“I could have never even put that on a vision board. I could have never imagined that not only would we have this Championship, but that I would be the inaugural Champion.”

Green’s wrestling career has been full of twists and turns. From her time on the independent scene to making a name for herself in TNA and eventually WWE, her goals have constantly shifted. She admitted that when she first started wrestling, she didn’t have a clear vision of where she wanted to end up.

“As I’ve gone through the years of my career, I’ve changed the goalpost, I’ve changed the goals,” she explained. “Now, ten years in, and there’s this beautiful United States Championship sitting in front of me.”

Being the first-ever holder of the title is a milestone she doesn’t take lightly. Green understands the legacy she’s creating and the impact it will have on future generations of wrestlers.

“When kids go through the history books of WWE, they’re going to see me next to this title for the rest of time,” she said proudly.

With her reign still ongoing, Green is focused on proving why she deserves to be the face of the division. While she may not have envisioned this moment at the start of her journey, there’s no doubt she’s ready to embrace it—and make sure the world remembers her name.

Check out the full interview here:

Mercedes Mone Speaks On Future Of Mone Muppet After Grand Slam

Anutosh Bajpai
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Mercedes Mone Speaks On Future Of Mone Muppet After Grand Slam

Mercedes Mone has commented on the future of the Mone Muppet after her Grand Slam victory.

The Mone Muppet was introduced by Harley Cameron as a way to mock the current TBS Champion during their recent feud. Thanks to the genius of Cameron, the whole thing became a huge hit with multiple Mone Muppet segments going viral.

The former WWE star discussed the unexpected success of the Muppet in her Newsletter. She mentioned how it took a life of its own when they looked nothing alike:

“This little Puppet has really taken on a life of its own. I mean, let’s be real—this thing doesn’t look anything like me, but it sure knows how to bring the entertainment!”

Leave The Spotlight To The Real Star: Mercedes Mone

Mercedes Mone also discussed how Cameron brought the Mone Muppet out for a spot during their Grand Slam match. She mentioned that it was a tribute to DDT’s inflatable dall Yoshihiko but claimed that it was time for the Muppet to take a seat:

“And at Grand Slam! That puppet had its moments, but I kicked it so hard that it practically flew backward! I’ve been a fan of DDT Yoshihiko for ages, so consider this my tribute.

If that Muppet Moné ever wants to hop on the money train, it’s going to need to step up its game. Seriously, it should probably just take a seat and leave the spotlight to the real star—because we all know who runs this show!”

Despite many hoping otherwise, Mercedes Mone picked up the victory over Harley Cameron at AEW’s Australia debut. The rivalry between the two seems to be over for now as AEW teased Momo Watanabe as the next challenger for the TBS title at Dynamite this week.

Mark Henry’s Most Terrifying Match: His Casket Match with The Undertaker

Michael Reichlin
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Mark Henry’s Most Terrifying Match: His Casket Match with The Undertaker

For all the battles Mark Henry endured in his legendary career, none shook him quite like his WrestleMania 22 casket match against The Undertaker. Henry, who suffers from claustrophobia, describes the experience as overwhelming and terrifying.

Speaking with Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at the For The Love of Wrestling 2025 convention, the “World’s Strongest Man” gave a terrifying glimpse into what it’s like to get sealed into a casket by WWE’s legendary Phenom:

“It was like people putting tape over your mouth and nose. You can’t breathe.”

Henry even compared the sensation to the infamous buried-alive scene from Kill Bill, starring Uma Thurman.

“That’s the same way I felt when I was in that coffin… It made me feel the same identical way. I had to walk out of the movie when I saw it.”

Despite the fear, Henry delivered a hard-hitting performance against The Undertaker on the grandest stage of them all. But the mental battle he fought inside that casket remains one of the most intense challenges of his career.

This revelation sheds new light on the psychological toll that wrestlers endure beyond the physical pain—showing that even the toughest competitors have their breaking points.

More on the Undertaker vs Mark Henry Casket Match at WrestleMania 22

The Undertaker and Mark Henry spoke extensively about their Casket Match at WrestleMania 22 during a recent episode of Taker’s Six Feet Under podcast. Henry called it a defining moment in his career, revealing that their clash was the culmination of a two-year learning experience, during which he wrestled The Undertaker at house shows and international tours.

“I had wrestled already eight years and I still was learning,” Henry admitted. “I can wrestle anybody now after being there with him.”

One of the key lessons The Undertaker imparted was the importance of pacing and creating space. “Let me sell what you’ve done to me already,” The Undertaker explained. “You are watching me helpless, and now it’s just a matter of time before you go in for that final bite.”

The Undertaker also revealed that he personally chose Henry as his WrestleMania opponent, explaining that finding credible challengers for his near-mythical character was difficult.

“Trying to find legitimate opponents… well, why not the World’s Strongest Man?” he said.

Their match made history as the only casket match ever held at WrestleMania, further cementing The Undertaker’s legacy. “To be a part of that… that’s kind of a cool thing,” Henry said, before jokingly adding, “And to get a WrestleMania Main Event paycheck? Nice.”

JBL Reflects on His Bloody Battle with Eddie Guerrero: ‘Unbelievable How Much Blood He Lost’

Michael Reichlin
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JBL Reflects on His Bloody Battle with Eddie Guerrero: ‘Unbelievable How Much Blood He Lost’

One of the most infamous matches in WWE history is still etched in JBL’s memory—his brutal Judgment Day 2004 clash with Eddie Guerrero. Speaking with Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at the For The Love of Wrestling 2025 convention, the former WWE Champion revisited the unforgettable bout and its shocking level of violence.

“I knew there was a lot of blood, but watching it back—it was just puddles of blood. It was unbelievable how much Eddie lost that night,” JBL recalled.

Eddie Guerrero and JBL at Judgment Day 2004
Photo: WWE

The match, which saw Guerrero bleed profusely after an errant chair shot, remains one of the most graphic displays of bloodshed in WWE history. Despite fan speculation over the years, JBL clarified that Guerrero never went into shock but did require medical attention.

“People have said all kinds of things—that he went into shock and all that. He did not. He lost a lot of blood, he did go to the hospital, but it was unbelievable to witness,” JBL explained.

JBL also credited Guerrero as the key reason his main-event run took off, saying the late WWE Hall of Famer made him a legitimate star.

“If it hadn’t been Eddie Guerrero, it would’ve been a one-off. You wouldn’t be interviewing me now,” JBL admitted.

JBL and Eddie Guerrero’s Classic Rivalry

The rivalry between JBL and Eddie Guerrero in 2004 stands as one of WWE’s most intense and personal feuds of the Ruthless Aggression era. Following JBL’s transformation from his role in the APA tag team, he targeted WWE Champion Eddie Guerrero in a storyline that pushed boundaries.

The feud became notably controversial, particularly during segments involving Guerrero’s family and a staged storyline where his mother suffered a kayfabe heart attack.

The rivalry reached its peak at Judgment Day 2004, where their match became infamous for its brutality, particularly after Guerrero sustained a severe cut that led to significant blood loss during the bout.

Despite their heated on-screen rivalry, JBL and Guerrero maintained a close friendship behind the scenes, with Guerrero even serving as a groomsman at JBL’s wedding.

Tragically, Guerrero passed away on November 13, 2005, at the age of 38. His legacy endures as one of professional wrestling’s greatest performers, with contemporaries like Kurt Angle considering him the second-greatest wrestler of all time, behind only Shawn Michaels.

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