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Mickie James Reveals Rumble Spot She “Didn’t Love”

Jake Skudder
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Former WWE Superstar and IMPACT Knockouts Champion Mickie James recently discussed her involvement in the WWE Royal Rumble match back on Saturday 29th January.

Speaking on her GAW TV show alongside SoCal Val and Victoria, Mickie revealed a moment in the match that she was not a big fan of.

“I didn’t love that at all [Melina being eliminated after 53 seconds],” Mickie began. “I did love that, you know, her entrance, people did exactly what we knew they were going to do. They erupted, like ‘holys**t’, it was so good to see her back.

“She hadn’t been in WWE for over a decade, so I think that was amazing to see her get teared up, and, it was awesome” the IMPACT Knockouts Champion continued.

Mickie James on Melina Elimination

“I didn’t love the whole she got eliminated first, no I didn’t love that because obviously as I wanted to be able to be in there with her and tangle it up, and I want her to have those moments with some of the other girls, you know.

“I know it was special for Sasha, and I know Sasha, I know it was special for Sasha to be in there with her” James concluded.

It has not been revealed if WWE is planning on bringing Melina back for any more segments or matches going forward. Right now, it appears as though it will be a one-off for the former WWE diva.

Killer Kross Details What Triple H Is Like As A Leader

Anutosh Bajpai
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The Triple H era of NXT has come to an end. However, the work he did with various talents during his time cannot be forgotten. One such talent who got the chance to work with the game is Killer Kross.

The now-former WWE star recently had an interview with CBS sport. Among other things, he detailed what it was like working with the former world champion and what kind of leader he is.

Kross claimed that Triple H is a natural leader. According to him, he is not someone who has to raise his voice or get angry to get people to listen to him:

“He was a person where I would come into work and he would be completely focused with each and every person he was working with. I never saw him play favorites. He never told you wanted to hear, he always told you what you needed to hear.”

Killer Kross then explained that both Triple H and Shawn Michaels are individuals who inspire people to be a better version of themselves at work. So much so that people wanted to perform better out of respect for them:

“I could tell you for sure as much as people wanted to perform in this business for the fans, they also wanted to perform out of respect for Hunter and Shawn [Michaels] because of how much time they would put into them and helping them improve

Kross later mentioned how people usually say that you should never meet your heroes. Though Triple H was someone who didn’t disappoint him. He actually exceeded expectations for the person you think he would be by seeing him on TV.

You can check out Kross’ full interview below:

Matt Hardy Teasing ‘Extreme’ Change To AEW Character

Anutosh Bajpai
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The WWE release of Jeff Hardy has been a hot topic of discussion for fans recently. There has been a lot of speculation on where Hardy will go next. Now his brother Matt Hardy is teasing a change to his character in All Elite Wrestling, saying that maybe it’s time for him to return to his extreme roots.

This Friday’s episode of Rampage saw Isiah Kassidy unsuccessfully challenge Sammy Guevara for the TNT title. The Private Party had also lost a match against The Jurassic Express for the tag team titles last month.

Matt posted a video on twitter after Rampage. He first expressed his disappointment over these recent losses of the members of his faction. He then said that maybe it’s time to put the focus back on himself. Hardy claimed that maybe it’s time adapt his old motto back and he teased an ‘extreme’ change to his character at the end of the video:

‘Maybe It’s Time For Matt Hardy To Make An Extreme Change’

Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy 'The Hardy Boyz'
Matt Hardy and Jeff Hardy ‘The Hardy Boyz’

“Maybe it’s time for me to go back to the drawing board. Maybe it’s time for me to get rich of what I originally got rich off of and that was me. Maybe it’s time for me to tighten up my boots. Lace them a little tighter. Lace them a little more snug. Maybe It is time to adapt my old motto of fear is only a four-letter word. So starting today, February the 5th, 2022, I’m gonna make a promise to everyone.

I’m saying it here publicly so I’ll be held accountable for it. I’m gonna bust my ass. I’m gonna do everything that I possibly can to take my dilapidated vessel, after all the wear and tear on my body, after my age and get into the best shape that it can possibly be in. Because I don’t like the direction that Matt Hardy is currently headed in AEW. If something doesn’t happen with the AHFO, something has to change. Maybe it’s time for Matt Hardy to make an extreme change.”

Jeff Hardy’s WWE non-compete clause expires in early March. The Hardy Boyz have already been announced for a few appearances including a couple of matches after that. There is no news on how Tony Khan feels about Jeff joining AEW after the infamous live event incident. It’ll be interesting to see if The Hardy Boyz end up reuniting in AEW as well.

Matt Hardy Explains Why He Is Moving Away From His Big Money Character

Kurt Angle Says His WWE Return Has Been Nixed

Anutosh Bajpai
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Kurt Angle had revealed last month that WWE wanted him to make a brief return to TV but that program has apparently been nixed. The Olympic Gold Medallist recently talked about the Royal Rumble PPV on the latest episode of his podcast. The former world champion revealed that he was in the arena for the show.

Angle mentioned that he went to the show with his wife and they had a great time. However, the program he was supposed to be involved in got canceled at last minute:

“We went to the Rumble and I also did some documentary interviews a day before [and] a photo op with the fans.  But I want to make it clear, I’m not signed with the WWE. They weren’t gonna sign me anyway. It was gonna be a three-week program. It got cancelled,” said Kurt Angle, “but you know my obligation is to the show — the Kurt Angle show and that’s it.”

The former Raw GM didn’t reveal any detail on what the promotion wanted him for, or if the cancellation of it had anything to do with the debacle involving Shane McMahon. Kurt Angle was last seen on WWE TV on the May 23, 2020 episode of SmackDown, where he announced the arrival of Matt Riddle. WWE offered him the role of Riddle’s manager but he turned it down.

Matt Riddle Reveals Storyline He Wanted To Work With Kurt Angle

Paul Heyman: “You Haven’t Seen The Best Of Roman Reigns Yet”

Anutosh Bajpai
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Roman Reigns was already one of wrestling’s top stars before his heel turn in 2020. He had already held the world title multiple times and picked up victories over opponents such as The Undertaker, Brock Lesnar, and John Cena. However, his new Tribal Chief persona earned him universal acclaim from critics and fans like he had never seen before. Still, Paul Heyman believes that we have not seen the best of the Universal champion yet.

The former ECW owner recently appeared on Corey Graves’ After The Bell podcast. Heyman who has been around the wrestling business for over three decades discussed how one has to keep evolving to stay relevant in the industry. He then explained that we haven’t seen the best of Reigns because he keeps evolving:

“I’ll say this selfishly. Again talking about evolving personas, evolving characters, evolving personalities evolving box office attractions, you haven’t seen the best of Roman Reigns yet. Roman Reigns a year from now will be far greater than Roman Reigns is today. Roman Reigns this Friday will be better than Roman Reigns last Friday.

Roman Reigns, next Friday will be able to look back at this Friday’s appearance and say ‘Wow, I can do that so much better’ and he will. I’ll include the Usos in there as well. The Usos as a tag team are so infinitely better now than they were six months ago and six months ago they were already the best tag team in the past 20 years.”

“The Big Dog Was An Audition To Become The Tribal Chief”

Roman Reigns Paul Heyman
(via WWE)

Paul Heyman listed all the accolades of The Big Dog before 2020. He mentioned how the former Shield member was a top star from the get-go and he had main evented multiple WrestleManias even before turning heel and joining forces with the advocate. Though according to Heyman, everything he had done before that was just an audition for his current role: 

“Roman Reigns was a main eventer from the day he started in 2012 on the main roster. Through 2020 Roman Reigns main evented 4 WrestleManias and that was just the audition to become The Tribal Chief. It was the appetizer for the main course. He had to have that resume, that background, that experience. To come from top attraction, competing with John Cena for the top spot, multi-WrestleMania matches with Brock Lesnar, a victory over The Undertaker, only two people can claim that – Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns. That was the lead-up to The Tribal Chief.

The Tribal Chief is far bigger box office, a far more compelling personality, a far more riveting persona than the Big Dog. No offense to the Big Dog but the public wasn’t ready to accept the greatness. And Roman Reigns didn’t know how to put it all together and create this package of greatness. This ability to reach greatness and break through the limitations on his greatness. To make a viable claim to be ‘I am the greatest of all time, I am the goat.’ And now he is. As the Tribal Chief. Who is still evolving, who is still emerging.”

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

This article has been edited for clarity

Paul Heyman Discusses CM Punk’s Return to Wrestling

Mia Yim & Keith Lee Got Married Saturday Night (Photos)

Tyriece Simon
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Congratulations to Keith Lee and Mia Yim on getting married.

The couple tied the knot on Feb. 5 after spending several years together. It’s unclear when Mr. and Mrs. Lee began their relationship, but WWE fans knew they were together in NXT.

Mia Yim commented on her magical night. She thanked all the guests who attended their “Disney” wedding and feels proud and lucky to finally be Mrs. Lee.

Several past and present WWE stars were in attendance for the ceremony, including Shelton Benjamin and Damien Priest.

Keith Lee and Mia Yim

Mia Yim and Keith Lee are free agents after being released by WWE on November 4, 2021.

However, Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer speculates that Mr. Lee already agreed to a deal with All Elite Wrestling. “Keith Lee is on that list, and we’re told that he’s been talked about for [AEW] if not has already agreed to a deal here,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

After his 90-day WWE non-compete clause expired, Lee posted on Twitter that he is looking forward to wrestling again. His last match was on Oct. 25, 2021, when he defeated Cedric Alexander at Monday Night Raw.

Wrestling fans are awaiting his return to competition. Based on Meltzer’s report, AEW wants Lee on their roster. However, AEW hasn’t shared if they have signed Lee or spoken with him. AEW President Tony Khan revealed on Busted Open on Sirus XM that the “forbidden door” would open again and expect more free-agent talent signed.

“…Just in the last several weeks, we’ve made some big one, and I plan to make some more big signings and not in the long term future. I mean in the short-term future,” said Khan.

While it’s unclear when Mr. or Mrs. lee will wrestle again, they seem to be enjoying this new chapter in their lives.

More of Shane McMahon’s Wild Royal Rumble Pitches Revealed

Ryan Droste
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It’s been quite the week for Shane McMahon, who went from an appearance in the Royal Rumble to reportedly being let go by his father’s company.

In an update to what went down last weekend in St. Louis, Fightful Select published more information on McMahon’s backstage dealings prior to the Royal Rumble match. Though McMahon wasn’t the sole producer of the match, he was involved in creative and had some wild pitches that didn’t make it into the final match.

According to Fightful Select, McMahon was pitching ideas for his entry into the Royal Rumble match that he felt would highlight him personally. He even pitched being the number one entrant in the match. According to the report, Vince McMahon got involved, made changes to the match, and noted that they wouldn’t be doing much of what Shane had pitched previously.

Apparently it wasn’t just Vince McMahon who wasn’t happy with Shane’s pitches. Brock Lesnar also took issue with the ideas being thrown around by the younger McMahon.

Shane was pretty insistent on some of his ideas, even though they didn’t come to fruition. He was reportedly acting quite unprofessional about the situation, talking down to people in the process. One source told Dave Meltzer:

“Every single story you’ve already heard, multiplied many times over. He was unprofessional the likes of which left Vince no options but to fire him.”

WWE Source on Shane McMahon’s Behavior

There was also a funny situation with Randy Orton. According to the report, McMahon was originally supposed to be the 29th entrant and Orton was supposed to come in at 28. However, this got mixed up and Orton told McMahon that he would not be coming down to Shane’s “Here Comes The Money” theme so he better get out there once number 28 was called.

Overall, this year’s Royal Rumble was very poorly received by both the fan base and backstage, leading to a lot of the fallout which has been reported this week. WWE has not confirmed Shane McMahon’s release publicly as of yet.

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

CM Punk Reveals The Best Way To Handle Internet Trolls

Anutosh Bajpai
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The internet allows wrestling stars to showcase their talents to the whole world and reach a much wider audience. However, it can also be a toxic place for wrestlers who aren’t used to the relentless criticism and trolling.

CM Punk is one of the most polarizing figures of the whole industry who often finds himself being targeted by the trolls for one reason or the other. He has good advice for anyone who is not used to it.

The AEW star recently had an interview with Abe Kanan of Rock 95.5 in Chicago. Speaking of the internet trolls, Punk shared his advice for other wrestlers. He said that you can’t win from them and you should focus on finding inner peace instead:

“You can’t win. I implore all humans to understand that you cannot win [from internet trolls]. You cannot be beholden to what nameless, faceless people on the internet say about you. It doesn’t matter.” said CM Punk, “You have to find inner peace and be happy with what you’re doing. I 100% am that guy. I’m stoked to be where I am. I got a lot of cool projects coming up aside from AEW.

He continued, “And I get to go home to a very beautiful, smart, talented woman and my dog Larry every night. So it can’t be beat. Like Johnny 256969 on Twitter, trust me you could say whatever you want about me dude. I sucked in UFC? That’s cool, I get that video game money. So I am ok.”

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

CM Punk Delivers the Final Verdict on Wrestlers’ Court

Lance Storm Joins Impact Wrestling as Producer & Coach

Chris Stephens
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Lance Storm is back with Impact Wrestling. The company recently announced Storm would be part of the Gut Check competition, which is returning soon.

https://twitter.com/LanceStorm/status/1489734457338699780

Lance Storm later told Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline that he’ll also be working backstage in Impact as a producer and coach.

“This is a chance to make the decision I should have made two years ago,” said Storm. “I had done a couple of tapings with Impact as a producer back when I still had my school. Then when I decided to close my school and was looking at options, I talked with Impact and I talked with WWE.”

“I really liked it in Impact but both my wife and me too liked the idea of the security of WWE, which is ironic considering it ended up being a 6 month gig.”

Lance Storm Back with Impact

Storm noted that he will be going to Impact’s tapings in New Orleans later this month. He will be working as a producer and coach but will not have an official role on the creative team.

“I’m quite sure Scott is more than willing to hear an idea or two if I happen to suggest one but that is not part of my current job description,” Storm continued.

Lance Storm old briefly worked with Impact Wrestling backstage in 2019 before signing with WWE as a producer. He was then released at the onset of the global pandemic in the spring of 2019.

Nick Khan Hopeful To Run More Events In Saudi Arabia Per Year

Chris Stephens
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During WWE’s 4th quarter earnings call this week, Nick Khan noted that he is hopeful to run more events per year from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is believed that WWE brings in $50 million per show for each event they run from the country.

The upcoming Elimination Chamber show on February 19th will be WWE’s 7th event in Saudi Arabia as part of their deal with the Kingdom. The first event was The Greatest Royal Rumble held on April 27th, 2018, just weeks after that year’s WrestleMania. Braun Strowman won a 50-man Royal Rumble event that year. Other matches on that show saw Brock Lesnar defeating Roman Reigns in a steel cage match for the Universal Championship and the Undertaker defeating Rusev.

Crown Jewel in 2018 saw Shawn Michaels return to the ring. He teamed with Triple H and faced The Undertaker and Kane.

Elimination Chamber Lineup

  • Elimination Chamber match for the WWE Championship: Bobby Lashley defends against Brock Lesnar, Seth Rollins, Riddle, Austin Theory, and AJ Styles.
  • RAW Women’s Championship: Becky Lynch defends against Lita.
  • WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championships: The Usos defend against the Viking Raiders.
  • Universal Championship: Roman Reigns defends against Goldberg.
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Madcap Moss.

Jade Cargill Had Good Reason to Choose AEW Over WWE

Chris Stephens
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TBS Champion Jade Cargill has commented on why she decided to sign with AEW over WWE. Cargill was on the Talk is Jericho podcast and revealed she was offered a contract to sign with WWE prior to joining AEW.

“So they sent the contract, they wanted me to do it,” she explained. “AEW came about, and I came here, I got the experience, and I felt calm. I remember you and I had this conversation in the car. It made me feel at ease about the decision that I wanted to make, I didn’t have to relocate, I felt at home.”

Cargill said Tony Khan’s availability to talent made her feel comfortable in AEW.

“I could call the owner of our company and talk to him, you know, he knew my name and knew my purpose,” she said. “He knew that I wanted to do this and that I wasn’t just a number. He knew exactly who I was, so that made me feel comfortable.”

AEW Offered More Security

Jade Cargill
(via AEW)

Cargill related her experience with AEW to that of her friend, E. J. Nduka, in WWE. She noted that Nduka, who is now with MLW, gave up everything to commit to WWE but he was cut with no warning or reason.

“There’s more security, there’s a safety net here,” she said. “Like I said, I just named one of my friends [Nduka] who gave up everything he had, had a newborn baby, and got cut with no warning. He gave everything. I remember when I told him I was thinking about coming here, he couldn’t believe it. Why would you ever choose [AEW over WWE]? And I’m like, you don’t understand, I feel good here. I don’t want to be cut. I don’t want to have to worry.”

WWE cut over 80 wrestlers in 2021, including Nduka. WWE also announced that they brought in over $1 billion in profits last year, making it their most profitable year ever.

Jade Cargill is still undefeated in AEW and in her professional wrestling career. She holds a 26-0 record. In her most recent match, Cargill successfully defended her title against Julie Hart on last week’s AEW Rampage.

Bianca Belair Working With Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty Brand 

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former SmackDown women’s champion Bianca Belair is promoting products from Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty cosmetic brand.

The EST of WWE shared a sponsored post from her official Instagram account. She promoted the new lipstick line-up of the fashion brand:

“The #ESTofWWE is channeling her #ICONENERGY with @FentyBeauty’s new lipstick collection #FENTYICON! I’m loving shades #SCHOLASISTA, #FENTYTHEMVP, and #BOARDMEMBR for their long-lasting coverage in the ring! Which one should I try next?!”

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

Bianca Belair is not the only pro wrestling personality affiliated with Fenty.

AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill has also been promoting the brand on social media. Cargill has promoted the SAVAGE x FENTY lingerie line.

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

Bianca Belair & Fenty Beauty

Fenty Beauty Rihanna

Fenty Beauty was launched by Rihanna in September 2017. The brand is popular for its broad inclusivity across skin tones and gender.

It’s Pro Filt’R foundation originally offered 40 shades which has since been expanded to 50. Fenty Beauty was named one of time magazine’s best inventions on its launch year.

Bianca Belair was drafted to the Raw brand during the 2021 draft. She has been chasing the Raw women’s championship since then but has been unsuccessful in her quest so far.

Belair faced one-half of the women’s tag team champion Carmella on this Monday’s Raw. She hit Carmella with a KOD for the win.

The former champion is rumored to face Becky Lynch for the Raw women’s championship at WrestleMania 38. Though this match hasn’t been made official yet.

Bianca Belair On What She Is Looking Forward To In 2022

Montez Ford Open To Singles Run: “It’s Always A Dream To Be A World Champion”

Anutosh Bajpai
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Many believe Montez Ford will achieve great success as a singles star once the Street Profits split up. The Raw star himself also admits that it’s been his dream.

The former NXT star recently had an interview with WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T. He first claimed that he doesn’t buy too much into the hype and he is currently focused on being a tag team star.

Though later Montez admitted that having a singles run and potentially winning the world title has always been a dream for him:

“It’s always a dream to be a World Champion, and I don’t think that ever goes away. I feel like all the guys and everyone that’s here,

if you’re not trying to be the guy then — obviously you want to make money,” said Montez Ford, “that’s the main thing, but you always want to [be] the man, too.”

Ford’s partner Angelo Dawkins has also discussed this subject previously. He admitted that his tag team partner has the potential to hold the world title in WWE.

Though he also explained that he would like a New Day style split for the Street Profits where they can go their separate ways but still support each other when it’s needed.

Paul Heyman Believes The Street Profits Are Magic

Thanks To Fightful for the transcribed quotes

Lince Dorado Explains Decision To Leave WWE

Anutosh Bajpai
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A lot of wrestlers work their whole life to get to WWE. However, Lince Dorado is one star who had that dream realised, but made the decision to leave it all behind. He was released from his contract in November last year.

The former WWE star recently had an interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated. He revealed that he had two years left on his contract when he asked for his release from the promotion.

Explaining the decision to leave the promotion, Dorado claimed that the WWE officials didn’t under the creative thought of being a luchador:

“They understood I was a luchador, but they didn’t understand the story or the motive or the creative thought that went into being a luchador. All they saw was, ‘This is just a guy in a mask that does incredible things.’”

Lince Dorado Didn’t Want To Be A Spanish WWE Star

[From left] Grand Metalik, Kalisto and Lince Dorado
[From left] Grand Metalik, Kalisto and Lince Dorado

Lince Dorado continued by saying that he didn’t want to be a Spanish WWE star. Instead he just wanted to be represented as a star with Spanish background:

“I didn’t want to be WWE’s Spanish star. I wanted to be represented as a WWE star who happened to have Latino culture and background. But they saw me only as a high-flyer.”

Dorado later claimed that he had great rapport with the likes of Vince McMahon and John Laurinaitis but the problem was the disconnect between what they thought was lucha libre and what we know it is.

WWE Releases: Staggering Tally For 2021

Update On Drew McIntyre’s Rehab After Royal Rumble Return

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Drew McIntyre made his surprise return at the Royal Rumble PPV last week. He was one of the final two contestants of the bout.

This return surprised many as previous reports had indicated the Scottish Warrior will have to stay out of action at least until WrestleMania to recover from his neck issues.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter provided some updates on the situation recently. He revealed that the plan is for McIntyre to be protected until he has recovered from his issues:

“The plan, at least as of this week, was for him not to do house shows and continue his rehab, but appear on television. While he is likely to do some television matches, the idea is to protect him to where he’s not doing too much until he rehabs more.”

The belief is that Drew McIntyre’s feud with Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss will continue as the SmackDown star focuses on his rehab.

Meltzer also discussed his rumored match with the Universal Champion Roman Reigns. He noted that the original plan was for McIntyre to feud with Reigns leading into WrestleMania 38.

The former WWE champion is still expected to have a program with The Tribal Chief at some point. Though currently there is no set plan for the same.

Drew McIntyre Doesn’t Plan To Stop Wrestling Anytime Soon: “I’ll Be Here As Long As I Possibly Can”

AEW Rampage Results (2/4): Title Matches, Thunder Rosa vs. Mercedes Martinez, Adam Cole

Robert Lentini
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0

AEW Rampage was taped in Chicago at the Wintrust Arena this past Wednesday. Both the TNT and FTW Championships were defended on tonight’s episode. Adam Cole battled Evil Uno and Thunder Rosa squared off against Mercedes Martinez after she interfered in her match during the TBS Championship Tournament.

Rampage Results

  1. Adam Cole def. Evil Uno
  2. Sammy Guevara def. Isiah Kassidy to retain the TNT Championship
  3. Thunder Rosa def. Mercedes Martinez via DQ
  4. Ricky Starks def. Jay Lethal to retain the FTW Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Adam Cole Vowed To Become AEW Champion

Adam Cole battled Evil Uno in the first match of the night. Cole cut a promo on Dynamite and vowed to put the feud with Orange Cassidy in the past. Cole controlled the action early and beat Evil Uno down in the corner of the ring. Evil Uno battled back with a Neckbreaker and followed it up with a big boot. Uno made his way to the top turnbuckle and went for a Senton but Cole got his knees up. Cole hit a Superkick and followed it up with The Boom for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Adam Cole grabbed a microphone and ran down the wrestlers he has defeated since arriving in All Elite Wrestling. Cole noted that he is still undefeated because his match against Orange Cassidy was a Lights Out bout (unsanctioned and doesn’t count in the record books).

Cole claimed to be one of the best professional wrestlers on the planet and demanded respect. Adam added that no matter the promotion, he always ends up becoming “the guy”. Cole ended the promo by saying that he will become AEW Champion and he doesn’t care who he takes the belt from.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1489798110394081282?s=20&t=QaYPk_LziYZYtO-k1toY1Q

Sammy Guevara Retained The TNT Title

Sammy Guevara defended the TNT Championship against Isiah Kassidy. Matt Hardy & Marq Quen were in Kassudy’s corner for the match. Kassidy caught Sammy with a Dropkick but the TNT Champion shrugged it off and connected with one of his own that knocked the challenger out of the ring.

Sammy hit a dive onto Isiah outside the ring and rolled him back inside. Quen went for a distraction and Matt Hardy capitalized with a Side Effect on the ring apron as Rampage went to a commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Sammy battled back and went for the GTH but grabbed his ribs in pain. Andrade El Idolo’s music then hit and he joined Hardy & Quen. Kassidy rolled up Guevara during the distraction but Sammy kicked out at two.

Kassidy hit a Swanton Bomb for a two count and followed it up with the Twist of Fate for another near fall. Sammy slammed Kassidy to the canvas and connected with a Moonsault on Quen outside the ring. Guevara delivered a Cutter to Kassidy and followed it up with the GTH for the pinfall victory. Sammy Guevara is still the TNT Champion.

After the match, Hardy Family Office got into the ring with Sammy and surrounded him. Chris Jericho made it seem like he was going to get off commentary to save his fellow Inner Circle member but Darby Allin’s theme hit. Darby rushed the ring and the heels retreated. Darby got in Sammy’s face after the match and took a look at the TNT Championship.

Mercedes Martinez Attacked Thunder Rosa

Mercedes Martinez faced Thunder Rosa tonight on Rampage. Thunder Rosa hit a Dropkick to start off the action and beat Martinez down in the corner. Thunder Rosa brought Martinez out of the ring and planted her with a Suplex on the floor. Back in the ring, Rosa got Martinez in the Camel Clutch in the middle of the ring. Martinez finally was able to battle back and hit a Spinebuster as Rampage went to a commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Martinez hit a Death Valley Driver off the top rope but still couldn’t keep Thunder Rosa down. The action spilled to the outside again and Martinez grabbed a lead pipe from under the ring. Mercedes bashed Thunder Rosa over the head with it to end the match in a disqualification.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1489805106522513409?s=20&t=Uz36e4HopNuVWiXvQyQByQ

It was then revealed that AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker was the one to bring in Mercedes Martinez to take out Thunder Rosa. Britt told Mercedes Martinez to get the job done without losing next time or she will be out of AEW quicker than she was gone from her last gig.

Ricky Starks Retained The FTW Championship

Ricky Starks defended the FTW Championship against Jay Lethal in the main event of this week’s Rampage. Mark Henry interviewed both competitors before the title match. Powerhouse Hobbs was with Ricky Stars for the interview. Jay Lethal vowed to leave as the new FTW Champion.

Starks and Lethal went back and forth to start off the match. Powerhouse Hobbs was ringside and distracted Jay for a moment. Ricky took advantage and took control of the match as Rampage went to a commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Ricky went for a DDT but Lethal blocked it and connected with a Clothesline. Starks responded with a Powerbomb and went for a cover but Lethal kicked out and the match continued.

Lethal and Starks traded shots in the middle of the ring. Lethal connected with an Enziguri before Powerhouse Hobbs hopped on the ring apron. Jay knocked him down with a Dropkick before Dante Martin showed up. Dante hit Hobbs with a Crossbody as Jay got back into the ring. Jay went for Lethal Injection but Starks was able to escape. Jay went for it again but this time Ricky Starks countered into an awesome Roshambo for the pinfall victory. Ricky Starks remains the FTW Champion.

WWE SmackDown Results (2/4): Goldberg Returns, Ronda Rousey Picks WrestleMania Opponent

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Ronda Rousey appeared to announce her WrestleMania 38 opponent after winning the women’s Royal Rumble last weekend. Goldberg returned and confronted Universal Champion Roman Reigns tonight.

SmackDown Results

  1. Ricochet def. Ridge Holland
  2. Sheamus & Ridge Holland def. Ricochet & Cesaro
  3. Jimmy Uso def. Erik
  4. Aliyah def. Natalya via count out
  5. Shinsuke Nakamura def. Jinder Mahal in a Championship Contender’s match
  6. New Day def. Los Lotharios

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Goldberg Confronted Roman Reigns & Challenged Him To A Match At Elimination Chamber

Universal Champion Roman Reigns came to the ring with The Usos and Paul Heyman. Paul said he was here to serve as special council to the Tribal Chief Roman Reigns. Heyman claimed that there was no conspiracy to make Brock Lesnar look foolish. Paul admitted he was wrong to advise Roman Reigns to stay away from Brock Lesnar and said that he deserved to be Superman Punched.

Heyman brought up title vs. title at WrestleMania and called it a stupid idea. Paul joked that Brock Lesnar looks like a shmuck and now acts like a shmuck. Heyman got on his knees and said that he now needs to protect Brock Lesnar from Roman Reigns. Paul claimed that Roman offered him the hand of love, family, The Bloodline, and the hand of acknowledgement. Heyman asked Oklahoma City to acknowledge their Tribal Chief and they booed.

Goldberg interrupted as Roman Reigns raised the Universal Championship. Goldberg says he acknowledge Roman Reigns as his next opponent. Goldberg challenged Reigns to a match at Elimination Chamber and told Roman that he is next. Reigns exited the ring without responding to the challenge. The match was later announced as official.

Sheamus & Ridge Holland Picked Up A Win

Ridge Holland faced Ricochet in the first match of the night. Cesaro and Sheamus were ringside for the match. Ricochet sent Ridge out of the ring and followed him out there. Holland slammed Ricochet onto the ring apron as Cesaro & Sheamus traded words. Ricochet hit a Cutter for the pinfall victory.

When SmackDown returned, Ridge Holland & Sheamus battled Cesaro & Ricochet in a tag team match. Ridge got Cesaro in a Headlock but he broke it up with a Neckbreaker. Ricochet and Sheamus tagged in and Ricochet hit a springboard Moonsault for a near fall. Cesaro tagged in and beat Sheamus down. Ridge made a blind tag and hit Cesaro with Northern Grit for the pinfall victory.

Jimmy Uso def. Erik

Erik faced Jimmy Uso tonight on SmackDown. Ivar and Jey Uso were ringside for the match. The Usos will defend the SmackDown Tag Team Championships against the Viking Raiders at Elimination Chamber.

Erik dominated the action but Jey provided a distraction. Jimmy capitalized with a Superkick and climbed to the top rope. Jimmy connected with a Frog Splash for the pinfall victory.

Aliyah def. Natalya

Aliyah faced Natalya again tonight. Natalya came to the ring with a Guiness Book of World Records and Aliyah was wearing her “Aliyah 3:17” shirt. Aliyah went for the win right away again but Natalya kicked out. Aliyah connected with a Bulldog and went for the cover but Natalya kicked out at two. Aliyah and Natalya battled to the outside and the referee started counting. Aliyah made it to the ring and Natalya was counted out. Natalya spoke to Pearce & Deville backstage and wanted another match with Aliyah next week.

Drew McIntyre Returned To SmackDown

Drew McIntyre made his way to the ring with Angela the sword. McIntyre said a doctor told him that he wouldn’t make Royal Rumble and he told the doctor that he could kiss his ass. Drew made it back for the Royal Rumble but it didn’t work out for him. McIntyre noted that he and Lesnar are now tied at one a piece and he will get back to that later. Drew brought up Happy Corbin & Madcap Moss and Corbin interrupted.

Happy Corbin wondered if it was worth it for McIntyre to risk his career and comeback only to be thrown out like a bag of garbage by Brock Lesnar. Madcap Moss snuck into the ring and McIntyre pointed his sword at him. Drew wanted Madcap to tell him a joke and threatened to draw blood if Corbin stepped into the ring. McIntyre stopped Madcap and demanded a Drew McIntyre joke. Madcap Moss asked what do an escaped criminal and the main event of WrestleMania have in common? They are both going to get off “scot free”.

McIntyre laughed and then Madcap thought everything was cool. Madcap joined in on the laugh riot and wound up getting a Claymore to the face from McIntyre. Drew pointed the sword at Corbin and challenged him.

Shinsuke Nakamura def. Jinder Mahal

Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura faced Jinder Mahal in a Championship Contender’s match. If Mahal beat the champion in the non-title match, he would earn a future title match. Sami Zayn was ringside for the match and will have a match for the IC Title in two weeks. Shanky & Boogs were ringside as well.

Mahal connected with a Gutbuster and then a knee to the face for a two count. Nakamura quickly battled back and leveled Mahal with the Kinshasa for the pinfall victory. Nakamura taunted Sami Zayn after the match.

New Day def. Los Lotharios

Los Lotharios (Angel Garza & Humberto) faced New Day (Big E & Kofi Kingston) tonight on SmackDown. Kofi slammed Garza to the mat and hit a Splash. Big E went for the cover but Angel kicked out. Big E leveled Humberto with a shoulder tackle and tagged Kingston back in. Kofi knocked Humberto out of the ring and went for a dive but Garza booted him in the face as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Humberto went for a Moonsault but Kofi got his feet up and booted him in the face. Big E and Angel Garza tagged in and the former WWE Champion unloaded some Belly to Belly Suplexes. Big E danced over Angel before hitting a Splash. Big E went for the Big Ending but Garza escaped and hit a Backstabber. Garza looked for the tag but Humberto was still out. New Day hit Midnight Hour and went for the cover but Humberto broke it up.

Big E sent Humberto to the apron and went for a Spear but he dodged it. Big E crashed to the floor as Los Lotharios isolated Kofi Kingston in the ring. Humberto hit a Dropkick for a near fall. Kingston battled back with the Boom Drop and Big E tagged in. Big E hit the Big Ending for the pinfall victory.

Ronda Rousey Will Face Charlotte Flair At WrestleMania 38

SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair came down to the ring at the end of tonight’s show. Sonya Deville was there too and she said that Charlotte will beat Naomi next week in their title match.

Charlotte mocked Ronda Rousey for playing video games and farming. Flair stated that she has never been more confident and is the main event of WrestleMania. Flair referred to Becky Lynch as the undercard as well and joked that #1 doesn’t talk about #2. Charlotte took a shot at both Becky Lynch and Ronda Rousey for taking time off to become a mother. Ronda Rousey made her way to the ring to a great reaction.

Ronda said she didn’t fly here during an ice storm with her baby to have a chat. Rousey told Flair that she won the Royal Rumble and gets to pick who she main events WrestleMania. Ronda told Charlotte that she owes her an ass kicking and Sonya Deville got in between them. Rousey told Charlotte that she is not special and will see her at WrestleMania. Charlotte vowed to win and raised the title in Ronda’s face. Rousey shoved Deville out of the way and went after Flair. Sonya leaped on Ronda’s back and she threw her to the canvas and applied an Armbar to close the show. Time will tell if Rousey receives a “fine” or a “suspension” for attacking an official.

Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair Confirmed For WWE WrestleMania 38

Andrew Ravens
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Ronda Rousey will indeed challenge Charlotte Flair for the WWE SmackDown Women’s Title at WrestleMania 38 after she made her return at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event in St Louis, Missouri by being a surprise entrant in the Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

She won the match and earned this title shot. After teasing going after Becky Lynch’s Raw Women’s Title on this past Monday’s Raw, she said she would make her announcement on Friday Night SmackDown this week and that’s exactly what happened. 

However, WWE did try to swerve fans by having Sonya Deville announce Rousey had chosen Lynch and Flair stated that she would face Sasha Banks at WrestleMania. However, Rousey came out to the ring and said that the last time she checked, she got to pick her opponent. She said she plans to teach her daughter the family business of kicking ass and Flair is just one of many who she owes an ass kicking. 

Rousey said Flair isn’t lucky, but just first and she would see her at WrestleMania. She tossed the microphone at Flair, who said that her title is her baby and it’s prettier than Rousey’s child. Rousey attacked like she was about to throw down with Flair. Sonya tried to tell her to back off, but Rousey picked her up and hit a samoan drop before locking in the armbar while staring at Flair. 

https://twitter.com/WWEonFOX/status/1489794638735196161

Goldberg Returns To Set Up Roman Reigns Match At Elimination Chamber

Andrew Ravens
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Goldberg made an appearance on WWE Friday Night Smackdown this week to interrupt Roman Reigns in the opening segment. He challenged Reigns to a Universal Title match at the Elimination Chamber event after he cut a short and very direct pointed promo to set up the match. 

This was expected as Fightful reported that the WWE Hall of Famer was slated to make his return and was scheduled to travel to Oklahoma City, the site of WWE SmackDown. 

There was some concern due to weather as Oklahoma got hit with a snowstorm on Wednesday and Thursday. Goldberg has been booked to lose 3 consecutive World Title matches over the last two years. 

The legendary wrestler lost the Universal Title to Braun Strowman at WrestleMania 36. Goldberg challenged for the WWE Championship at the 2021 Royal Rumble pay-per-view but lost to Drew McIntyre. He lost to then WWE-Champion Bobby Lashley at the SummerSlam.  He last competed at Crown Jewel where he beat Lashley. 

WWE presents the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view event on Saturday, February 19, 2022. Other matches confirmed for the show includes WWE Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Seth Rollins vs. Austin Theory vs. AJ Styles vs. Riddle in an Elimination Chamber Match, WWE Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Lita, WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. The Viking Raiders

Jim Ross Was ‘So Proud’ To See Mickie James In Royal Rumble

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Legendary play-by-play commentator Jim Ross was over the moon seeing Mickie James enter the Royal Rumble on her terms.

The 2022 Royal Rumble took place inside The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Mickie is the Knockouts Women’s Champion for Impact Wrestling and she had been announced for the women’s Royal Rumble match weeks before the event.

JR On Mickie’s Moment

Jim Ross took to his Grilling JR podcast to share his take on Mickie James’ appearance at this year’s Royal Rumble event.

“I selectively tuned into the Royal Rumble because I’m a wrestling fan and I was here home alone. So, I thought, ‘Let me check this out.’

“I was so proud for Mickie. She’s one of my favorite ladies that I’ve worked with in my career. She’s very passionate in it and I still think she has a wealth of sex appeal, which never hurts.”

James was the 20th entrant in the women’s Royal Rumble match. She lasted 11 minutes and 40 seconds, eliminating Michelle McCool along the way. She was ultimately eliminated by Lita, who will be challenging Becky Lynch for the Raw Women’s Championship at Elimination Chamber in Saudi Arabia.

Mickie has done quite a bit in the wrestling industry following her release from WWE in 2021. Billy Corgan has credited Mickie James with not only bringing an all-women’s PPV to life for the promotion, but also rekindling the relationship between NWA and Impact Wrestling.

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Mark Henry Urges Wrestlers To ‘Have Some Balls’ & Negotiate Health Benefits

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Mark Henry believes more wrestlers need to do a better job at negotiating.

For years, many have questioned the treatment of pro wrestlers. The talents are labeled as independent contractors, yet stars are often tied down to one company and are restricted. The same argument has been made in the world of MMA.

There’s also the issue of health insurance. WWE does pay off medical bills that arise due to an in-ring injury, but the performers do not have insurance.

Negotiations Are Key, Says Mark Henry

During an episode of Busted Open Radio, Mark Henry expressed his belief that wrestlers won’t get what they want unless they put in more effort at the negotiating table.

“I’m permanently damaged. I sit here today a broken human being from being a pro wrestler. I’m not crying, I’m not having a pity party. I know what wrestling did to my body.

“There’s no NFL-CTE lawsuit that I’m gonna put towards wrestling. Even though if I had brain damage, the way that pro wrestling is designed you would’ve had to look out for yourself and not rely on them, the business, the corporation that you work for to look out for you.

“That’s why you say, ‘Look, I need full insurance to do this.’ Negotiate it in your contract. It’s about what you negotiate and all wrestlers say, ‘You need a union, you need this.’ No, you need to have some balls.”

WWE does provide a rehab program for all former talents who are struggling with drugs and/or alcohol. Drug use in the pro wrestling world is nothing new and WWE has reportedly opened its doors to those in need of assistance even if they’re in a rival promotion.

Whether or not WWE or any major promotion would make an exception if a talent wants to negotiate full health insurance remains to be seen.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article. Thanks to Putting You Over for the video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmS2Kvj8tXY

Paul Heyman Explains Why He Chose Roman Reigns Over Brock Lesnar

Michael Reichlin
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Paul Heyman is opening up about his decision to side with Roman Reigns over Brock Lesnar. The evil genius of WWE has guided the careers of both men, but recently realigned himself with with Reigns ahead of their upcoming clash at WrestleMania 38.

Heyman appeared on WWE After the Bell podcast with Corey Graves and explained why he chose the Tribal Chief over the Beast Incarnate.

“He’s driven and he’s ambitious and he pushes himself past his limits,” Heyman said of Reigns. “He understands and acknowledges (no pun intended) his own limitations and he’s willing to fight against them. And he has no fear of Brock Lesnar either on camera or behind the scenes. Roman Reigns is every bit the Tribal Chief that he presents himself to be on television.”

reigns lesnar wrestlemania

Brock Lesnar recently lost the WWE Championship to Bobby Lashley at the Royal Rumble. It took interference from Reigns and Heyman to topple Lesnar, but a win is a win. Heyman says Lashley should be commended for his win, but he’s no Roman Reigns.

“Not to minimize what Bobby Lashley has accomplished, one victory over the Beast is one thing. Domination over the beast, countering the beast, a consistent record of being able to replace Brock Lesnar as the top star, the top attraction, the WrestleMania main event, the go-to guy, the unbeatable, the unthinkable, the unfathomable… there’s only one person that I think really carries that credentials right now and that’s Roman Reigns.”

Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar is the top rivalry in WWE and Paul Heyman is arguably the best talker in all of professional wrestling. The match itself is worthy of the WrestleMania main event, but the buildup should also make for some must-see television.

There’s a lot more to Heyman’s discussion with Corey Graves. We encourage you check out below. Watch Paul Heyman on WWE After the Bell:

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Tony Khan Says AEW Will Open the Forbidden Door Again Soon

Michael Reichlin
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Tony Khan says some new faces will be appearing on AEW programming in the very near future.

The President of All Elite Wrestling appeared on Busted Open Radio Friday morning and addressed pro wresting’s hot free agent market. Khan says he plans to be “very active” with talent acquisitions in the short-term future.

“Just in the last several weeks, we’ve some big [signings] and I plan to make some more big signings. And not in the longterm future, I mean in the short-term future. I’ll still be very active in the free agent market and the Forbidden Door shall be opening again very soon.”

Khan guarantees there will be some news coming out of tonight’s AEW Rampage and also “next week.” He touted that AEW’s roster keeps getting better and Rampage allows for more opportunities to feature people.

Tony Khan on the Free Agent Market

Tony Khan prides himself on being a wrestling fan who listens to his audience. Looking at the free agent market, he knows there are wrestlers out there who can bring new fans to AEW.

“I have to say, I really really love listening to the wrestling fans. I love wrestling myself and I’m a fan. I believe that the fans give us the direction and it’s up to us to give great shows that the people want to see.

“Any time we can sign somebody that’s going to make the fans excited, that’s gonna come in here and give the fans big matches that they’re excited to watch, and somebody that’s going to bring new fans to AEW, it’s a great opportunity for us, so i will continue to explore the free agent market and the Forbidden Door will be opening again soon.”

The current free agent market is stacked with talent, including Jeff Hardy (available next month), Windham Rotunda, Johnny Gargano, Keith Lee, Adam Scherr, Karrion Kross, Athena, Toni Storm, Shane Strickland, Nixon Newell and The Briscoe Brothers.

Listen to Busted Open in the player below and catch AEW Rampage Friday night on TNT at 10pm (Eastern).

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Update On Keith Lee Possibly Signing With AEW

Chris Stephens
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Keith Lee could become All Elite in the near future. The former NXT Champion became a free agent earlier this week following the expiration of his 90-day WWE non-compete clause.

According to the Wrestling Observer, AEW officials have discussed signing Lee. Dave Meltzer speculates that Lee may already be signed to Tony Khan’s promotion.

“Keith Lee is on that list and we’re told that he’s been talked about for [AEW], if not has already agreed to a deal here,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

He added, “Lee was one of the most impressive wrestlers on the independent scene doing a hard hitting and high flying style, neither of which is favored in WWE.”

Keith Lee’s WWE signing was announced on May 1st, 2018. During his time with the company, Lee won the NXT Championship, the NXT North American Championship, and was awarded the NXT Year-End Award for Breakout Star of the Year in 2019.

He debuted on the main roster in 2020, but struggled with inconsistent booking. He was also out for an extended period of time after suffering from a heart issue stemming from a bout with COVID-19.

As recently as this week, Keith Lee has made it known that wrestling fans have not seen the last of him:

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

Update On Shane McMahon’s Departure From WWE

Chris Stephens
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Shane McMahon’s recent departure from WWE stems from his actions backstage during the Royal Rumble on Saturday. According to comments made by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Shane acted unprofessionally in response to Vince McMahon vetoing some of his ideas for the Rumble.

“They just kept changing the match over and over again. He wanted to do it one way and then Vince would veto it, Brock Lesnar would push for other things. Brock got a lot of what he wanted and Shane didn’t get a lot of what he wanted. And then Shane complained to a lot of people and I guess talked down to people.”

Meltzer added in the latest Observer newsletter that Shane McMahon made a scene backstage at the Rumble. One source said Shane’s behavior was worse than what we’ve been hearing so far.

“Every single story you’ve already heard, multiplied many times over,” said the source. “He was unprofessional the likes of which left Vince no options but to fire him.”

Shane McMahon wanted to build the ending of the Rumble around himself and was unprofessional after his ideas were struck down by Vince McMahon.

Shane McMahon Plans Scrapped

Shane McMahon

Shane was scheduled to be part of the Elimination Chamber match and was slated to wrestle with Seth Rollins at WrestleMania. That program was to start in the Elimination Chamber.

Shane pushed for Rollins to be included in the Rumble match to start the angle then, however. Vince vetoed this so that Rollins could sell the chair shots he received from Roman Reigns earlier in the show.

While Shane was working as a producer for the Royal Rumble match, and did so previously in 2020 and 2021, he has no official backstage role in the company. He is under a talent contract, however. There has been no talk of him being Vince’s heir apparent since returning.

It was also noted that Shane may not even hold any stock in the company anymore.

“I’m guessing that his stock, that he sold it for his other ventures a long time ago,” Meltzer said. “But there is no executive position or anything like that.”

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