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WWE Reportedly Interested In AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill

Chris Stephens
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WWE is reportedly interested in Jade Cargill now that they’ve been given a chance to see what she can do on television. According to Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men podcast, WWE officials have been impressed with Cargill’s performances as of late.

“I know for a fact that people in WWE are interested in her now that they’ve gotten to see what she can do on TV,” Zarian said.

This comes on the heels of WWE reportedly being interested in Wardlow and Maxwell Jacob Friedman as well.

Jade Cargill Comments On Choosing AEW Over WWE

Cargill was on Talk is Jericho recently and discussed her reasons for choosing to sign with AEW over WWE. She noted that WWE sent her a contract but she ultimately chose to sign with AEW.

“So [WWE] 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.” 

“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.”

Cargill is undefeated in her AEW career thus far. She is 27-0, the inaugural TBS Champion, and most recently defended her title against AQA on Dynamite.

Sonya Deville Seen With A Sling (Photo)

Anutosh Bajpai
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On screen WWE official Sonya Deville appears to be dealing with some sort of arm injury. She was recently spotted with a sling in her left arm.

The WWE star posted a photo from the red carpet of NFL Honors show on her Instagram earlier today. In the photo as seen below, she is wearing a sling in her arm:

“Thank you @glaad and @nfl for an incredible event tonight in LA, inclusion is so important and brands like @wwe and the @nfl showing their support and representation matters so much. Go LA”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ029Z5LUqE/

Sonya Deville last wrestled during the Royal Rumble PPV. She took part in the women’s Royal Rumble. She entered the match at #11 and was eliminated by Naomi two minutes later.

She also had an interaction with Ronda Rousey on last Friday’s episode of SmackDown. Deville tried to get between Charlotte Flair and Rousey. As a result, she was put in an armbar by the former UFC star.

There is no word yet on if Sonya Deville has suffered a real injury or if she is selling the attack from Rousey. We will keep you updated on her status if any details about her health come to light.

Sonya Deville On Her Experience Of Working With Vince McMahon

Kyle O’Reilly Details The Underlying Problem With NXT 2.0

Anutosh Bajpai
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Kyle O’Reilly was one of pillars of the Black and Gold brand of NXT. He was also there for its transition to the NXT 2.0 era before he left for AEW.

The AEW star recently had an interview with Renee Paquette for her Oral Sessions podcast. He discussed things such as his AEW debut and more.

Speaking of the rebranded NXT, O’Reilly revealed the underlying problem he believes it has, mentioning how a lot of its stars are not passionate about the sport:

“I think people in wrestling are really rare in the sense that you really, really have to love it. I think that might be an underlying problem in this new NXT. There’s a lot of people coming in that I don’t think really have that true love for it.

I’m sure they’ll do well, they’ll make a big splash, be a big star, and make a ton of money,” said Kyle O’Reilly, “but at the end of the day, if your heart isn’t really in it, I don’t know. It’s tough.”

The former ROH world champion also discussed his transition to AEW. He mentioned how the AEW locker room is full of guys he has been friends with for years.

He said that he felt there was no spot for him on the WWE main roster. Kyle O’Reilly made the jump to AEW because he wanted to be somewhere where he would be happy and be utilized.

Shawn Michaels Comments On Adam Cole, Johnny Gargano, & Kyle O’Reilly Leaving NXT

Mickie James Believes WWE And Impact Will Work Together Again

Anutosh Bajpai
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The Royal Rumble PPV was historical for many reasons. One of them was the appearance of current Impact Knockouts champion Mickie James who competed in the women’s Rumble.

This was the first time a champion not belonging to the company made an appearance on the show and competed in the battle royal.

James talked about this moment recently with Denise Salcedo of Instinct Culture. She expressed the belief that it wasn’t a one and done deal:

“I think yes [we will work together again], I don’t know that it will be immediately, I think this was an opportunity for WWE to test the water, to see if it was something.”

Mickie James also discussed the possibility of the current Impact World Champion Moose making an appearance on WWE programming:

“I feel that now that they see the potential and how much the fans responded to it, the idea of it happening with the men, or with the World Championships, or something like that, now, at least the idea of that possibility and that door is open.”

WWE had talks with NJPW about a potential partnership last year. So James’ assumption that this collaboration may extend beyond the Rumble is not unimaginable.

Mickie James Reacts to WWE Royal Rumble Appearance

Thanks to WrestlingInc for the transcribed quotes

Lita Defends Competing in Saudi Arabia After Previous Comments

Anutosh Bajpai
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Lita had previously been outspoken about WWE’s Saudi Arabian events being driven by money and not the desire to help the culture of the country move forward. The Hall Of Famer however has since decided to take the road herself. She is currently scheduled to face the Raw women’s champion Becky Lynch at the next WWE event from the country, Elimination Chamber.

Lita discussed her previous comments on the matter during a recent appearance on Ring The Belle podcast. She noted how she had criticized the lack of women’s matches on the card. She mentioned how things have changed since then:

“I’ve talked to the women personally that have been over there. And they’re like, ‘It’s unbelievable. There are women crying, never thinking they would get to see two women be so strong in the ring’. They’re like, ‘It’s really powerful. You’re going to enjoy that.’ And so, sure, do they have a long way to go? Do we as a society have a long way to go? Absolutely. But, you got to take the opportunities when they’re there.”

Lita On WWE Shows In Saudi Arabia

lita 1

Lita had talked about WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia after their first event back in 2018. The former champion claimed that she understood WWE was a business and they are always looking to expand their global presence. Though she felt like it was a direct conflict of interest:

“However, I do feel this was a direct conflict of interest with them maintaining any integrity or truth to the fact that they say they would like to push forward women, their roles and their reputations in this business as anything resembling equal to a male. Make the money, that’s fine, but don’t try to cover it up.”

The first three WWE PPV events in Saudi Arabia did not feature any women’s matches. Although during the 2019 Crown Jewel event, Natalya and Lacey Evans became the first female competitors to wrestle a match in the country. The Crown Jewel 2021 event then featured two women’s matches on the card.

WWE Elimination Chamber 2022: Matches, How to Watch

Thanks to PostWrestling for the transcribed quotes

Seth Rollins Reveals His Mt Rushmore Of Money-Drawing Wrestlers

Anutosh Bajpai
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People usually pick names for Mt Rushmore based on their wrestling abilities, but Seth Rollins has a different approach to selecting his picks.

The Visionary recently appeared on The Pat McAfee Show. During the talk, he was asked which names he would put in his Mt Rushmore of wrestling.

Answering the question, Rollins put his picks in two categories. He first revealed his choices based on their ability to draw:

“Are we talking wrestling or are we talking drawing money because those are different things. Well, in our business, which is the entertainment business, money-drawing is the biggest thing.

So, if we’re talking there, you got to start with [Hulk] Hogan, [John] you got to put Cena in there, Rock, and [Stone Cold Steve] Austin. Top four.”

Though later he also revealed his picks based on the in-ring wrestling abilities and he named people such as Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart:

“In-ring, all time? Shawn Michaels, Eddie Guerrero, Bret The Hitman Hart. Number four, controversial pick because he’s still active, Bryan Danielson,

I actually think, in-ring, is one of the greatest of all time. And I think when all’s said and done, he’ll be up there with the guys.”

Seth Rollins is currently scheduled to compete in the WWE Championship Elimination Chamber match at the namesake PPV on Saturday, February 19.

Dominik Mysterio Was Shocked WWE Booked Him To Face Seth Rollins

Thanks to 411Mania for the transcribed quotes

Jim Ross Says Sting Has “Taken Darby Under His Wing”

Tyriece Simon
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AEW broadcaster Jim Ross shared his thoughts on Sting’s relationship with Darby Allin.

Wrestling fans didn’t know what they would see from the WCW legend when he arrived in AEW on Dec. 2, 2020. At 61 years old, he signed a multi-year deal after initially retiring from wrestling due to a neck injury. His new employers decided to pair him with Darby Allin on Jan. 20, 2021, and make him an on-screen mentor.

Teaming with Allin, Sting has had a resurgence in his wrestling career. He made his in-ring debut for AEW with Allin defeating Team Taz’s Brian Cage and Ricky Starks at AEW Revolution on Mar. 8, 2021.

Since his in-ring debut, the company has had Sting and Allin team up against other groups like FTR and the Acclaimed. Ross on Grilling Jr. shared that Sting is also helping Allin and others behind the scenes.

“… He’s taken Darby under his wing. If nothing else on traveling and planning a match or whatever it may be, said Ross. He continued, “… He’s really a good mentor to the entire roster. He also added that AEW is blessed to have Sting on the roster.

Sting with Bat in AEW
Sting (Photo: AEW)

Sting Wanting to End His Career on His Terms

Before signing with AEW, wrestling fans thought Sting’s career was over. He suffered his neck injury during his match with Seth Rollins at Night of Champions on Sep. 10, 2015. While recovering from his injury, he decided to retire from wrestling. However, the success of AEW made him choose to end his retirement and finish his career on his terms.

The legend spoke to Sports Illustrated Justin Barrasso on Dec. 22, 2021, about rewriting the end of his wrestling career.

“Not many people get to rewrite their final chapter, not at this level,” Sting says. “I had great matches at the Greensboro Coliseum with Lex Luger, and now I get to do it with Darby and CM Punk against MJF and FTR. It’s a great way to end my career. The crowd their appreciation makes me want to tear up. It’s almost as if they don’t want to say goodbye.” (h/t Justin Barrasso)

Sting doesn’t seem ready to end his career anytime soon. Based on Ross’ comments, the company also wants the legend to continue helping mentor younger talent.

WWE Elimination Chamber 2022: Matches, How to Watch

Michael Reichlin
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Elimination Chamber is WWE’s next premium live event. 2022 marks 20 years since the chamber match was first introduced at November 2002 at Survivor Series.

The Road to WrestleMania begins at the Royal Rumble, but there is one last big stop on the way. WWE is putting the pieces in place for WrestleMania and we’ll soon have a clearer look at the biggest spectacle of the year.

Elimination Chamber – Wikipedia

Date, Time, Location & How to Watch

WWE Elimination Chamber 2022 takes place on Saturday, February 19th from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia at the Jeddah Super Dome.

The show streams live on Peacock in the United States and on the WWE Network internationally at 12pm (ET) / 9am (PT).

The venue opened in 2021. “The world’s largest pillarless superdome” accommodates approximately 35,000.

Jeddah Super Dome – Wikipedia

Elimination Chamber at the Jeddah Superdome
Jeddah Superdome to host WWE Elimination Chamber

Matches

This is a solid lineup with a few special attractions and big developments taking us to WrestleMania.

Goldberg is back in action against . Bobby Lashley will defend the WWE Championship he just won inside the cell against 5 men including Brock Lesnar.

WWE Hall of Famer Lita challenges for the Raw Women’s Championship in her first singles match in years. The 4-time Women’s Champion last held a title in 2006. Plus, there will be a Women’s Chamber match (with a mystery participant) to determine Becky Lynch’s challenger for the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania

Here’s the final match card for WWE Elimination Chamber 2022:

  • Chamber Match for the WWE Championship: Bobby Lashley (c) vs. Brock Lesnar vs. AJ Styles vs. Seth Rollins vs. Riddle vs. Austin Theory
  • Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Lita
  • Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Goldberg
  • Chamber Match to determine Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch’s WrestleMania opponent: Liv Morgan vs. Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair vs. Doudrop vs. Nikki A.S.H vs. TBA
  • SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. Viking Raiders
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Madcap Moss

Killer Kross Returns To MLW (Video)

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Brace yourselves MLW fans, a “major player” was teased and it was Killer Kross.

MLW was streaming its Fusion show for free on YouTube.

Just before Fusion got started, Court Bauer revealed a big talent would be taking the leap to MLW.

“Tonight on MLW Fusion a major player enters MLW. 8pm et streaming worldwide.”

During the show, a vignette was shown and it appeared to indeed be Killer Kross. MLW hadn’t stated that Kross was indeed the “major player” until later in the show.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1491945581274562562

MLW confirmed that Killer Kross will be making his return on Feb. 26. He’ll be in action inside the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Speculation had run rampant on social media. Many believed that Killer Kross was the one stepping back into the world of MLW. Kross was released by WWE along with his fiancé Scarlett Bordeaux late last year.

Doudrop Explains How Becky Lynch Has Inspired Her

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Doudrop may have just had a rivalry with Becky Lynch on WWE TV but outside of the ring, “The Man” has served as an inspiration to the former Piper Niven.

Becky is the current Raw Women’s Championship. She has built herself up as one of the top stars in WWE thanks to her rise in 2018 going into 2019 where she became the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Champion.

“The Man” Is An Inspiration

During an appearance on Out of Character with Ryan Satin, Doudrop admitted that Becky has been an inspiration for her in terms of going from rags to riches (h/t 411Mania.com).

“I think it’s maybe a coincidence or it could’ve been by design subconsciously. I think the two of us have like a little bit of respect for each other because we have come from similar places – middle of nowhere Scotland and Ireland and doing the indies and wrestling all over the place.

“So, she knows that I know what it was like kind of a thing, which is nice. I’m going to try and paraphrase this story, my uncle, who’s won bodybuilding competitions and stuff, he told me this story that nobody thought it was possible for someone to do a 400-pound deadlift and then one year, one guy did it, he broke the record, he was the deadlifting champion.

“Then the same year, five other people did it. It’s all about perceptions and if you think it can be achieved, you can do it but if you don’t think it can be achieved you can’t do it.

“So for me, she was the one who showed it is possible to come from this place and succeed and get to the top. She was just such a pinnacle of your dreams are possible but you just gotta keep working through it.”

Doudrop was unsuccessful in her bid to capture the Raw Women’s Title from Becky at the Royal Rumble event. Time will tell if she will be able to break the glass ceiling and eventually become a world champion under the WWE banner.

Christopher Daniels on AEW Return: “I’m Sort of at the Mercy of Circumstance”

Tyriece Simon
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“The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels is unsure if he’ll wrestle for All Elite Wrestling again.

Daniels hasn’t competed for AEW since he and Frankie Kazarian’s lost to the Young Bucks at AEW Dynamite on May. 12, 2021. The result of the loss made him and Kazarian end their tag team. While his partner has competed for AEW as a singles talent, the company has Daniels working as a Head of Talent Relations.

Although he hasn’t wrestled for AEW, he is competing for other wrestling promotions. He made his Impact Wrestling return defeating Madman Fulton on Sep. 30, 2021. However, in an interview with Chris Van Fleet, Daniels shared that he still hopes to be an in-ring talent for AEW soon.

“…The landscape of AEW is in constant flux. Addition, subtractions, so I mean it’s just a crowded field right now, and hopefully, I can make my way back there, said Daniels. He continued, “…There no real timetable as to when that might be, so I’m sort of at the mercy of circumstance.”

Keith Lee AEW
Keith Lee (Photo credit: Scott Lesh)

AEW Signing New Talent

Daniels isn’t the only talent unsure of his in-ring future in AEW. Joey Janela revealed on the Barstool’s Rasslin Podcast with Brandon Walker that his AEW contract is coming up on Apr. 30, and he isn’t sure if the company will re-sign him. As some talent in the company is unsure of their future, AEW President Tony Khan continues to sign free agents like Keith Lee on Feb. 9.

When the WWE released or didn’t re-sign talent throughout last year, fans speculated if Khan would attempt to sign them. With the signing of Lee, Khan has signed four former NXT Champions within a year. As the AEW roster gets more stacked with talent, veterans like Daniels or Janela may lose opportunities to compete.

It’s unclear if AEW has plans for an in-ring return for Daniels.

Keith Lee Comments on Joining AEW: “Let’s Grind”

Andrew Ravens
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Keith Lee is ready to get to work. After making a surprise debut on Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite, Lee is now the 5th former NXT Champion to jump ship to AEW.

The Limitless one was revealed to be Isiah Kassidy’s mystery opponent in the Face of the Revolution qualifier. Lee was in top form as he disposed of Kassidy and punched his ticket to the upcoming AEW Revolution pay-per-view.

On Thursday, Lee commented on this next chapter of his storied career. He’s changed his Twitter name to “All E Leet” and sounds ready to get to work.

He also alluded to “sad family times” that he hopes are behind him.

Keith Lee is All Elite

Tony Khan has officially welcomed Keith Lee with the ceremonial “… is ALL ELITE” graphic:

AEW did not waste any time rolling out Keith Lee merchandise. His first “Limitless” t-shirt is now available at ShopAEW.com.

Keith Lee’s new entrance music, “I AM” is now online as well:

AEW music composer Mikey Rukus commented on Lee’s new theme, specifically why Keith Lee did not rap the verses in the song.

Keith Lee’s Road to AEW

Keith Lee found a lot of success in WWE, but also found some disappointing moments as hee was pushed as a top star in NXT. While there, he became the North American Champion and NXT Champion.

He was later called up to the main roster and when that happened, there was a lot of optimism for him and his future. However, it was first derailed with a case of COVID-19, which led to heart issues, WWE brought him back to TV only to repackage him with the “Bearcat” gimmick.

WWE tried to use him as a heel in dark matches, but it wasn’t getting over as he’s a likeable guy. Although he was used on TV for a few months with the new gimmick, Lee was part of the most recent round of talent cuts and was waiting for his 90-day non-compete clause to expire.

Tony Khan Slams False Report That He’s Running For Congress

Chris Stephens
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Tony Khan has responded to reports that he is planning to run for Congress. Earlier this morning, ProFootballTalk.com reported that Khan had filed to run for Florida’s 4th Congressional District. Not only did Tony Khan refute these reports, he compared ProFootballTalk’s sources to MJF and Tony Schiavone.

“The fact checking standard for @ProFootballTalk reporting is far lower than that of @AEW’s roving reporter @tonyschiavone24. I’m definitely not running for Congress; this filing is faker than Eddie Gilbert’s apology to Tommy Rich in 1984. PFT sources as trustworthy as @The_MJF.”

The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport also reported the news.

Jacksonville attorney Chris Hand got to the bottom of the news, however, and confirmed that Tony Khan definitely is not running for Congress.

Things continued between ProFootballTalk and Khan.

Who Filed Tony Khan’s Name To Run For Congress?

The two options appear to be that Tony Khan filed to run but then didn’t follow up on it or someone filed Tony Khan’s name as a joke. Since Khan is denying the reports, the latter seems far more likely. Perhaps it was an AEW, Jaguars, or Fulham fan.

“But whether someone filed the statement as a joke or @TonyKhan filed it in 9/21 but decided not to complete the process, the bottom line is this: He isn’t an active candidate for Florida’s 4th Congressional District.”

The Great Khali Joins Bharatiya Janata Political Party In India

Chris Stephens
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The Great Khali is now officially a member of the Bharatiya Janata Political Party in India. Bharatiya Janata is one of two major parties in the country and has been in power since 2014. They are considered a right-wing party with policies that align with Hindu nationalist positions.

Real name Dalip Singh Rana, he officially joined the party today.

“I have wrestled all over the world. If I just loved money and fame, then I would have stayed in the United States and in the WWE. However, I have always loved my country. I was also impressed by all the work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. So I told myself that even I should join him and help the country progress. I am a fan of his hard work and thinking,” Khali said, shortly after joining the party.

Khali has formerly worked as an assistant Sub-Inspector with the Punjab police. The 49-year-old also participated in the farmers protests held in India in late 2020/early 2021.

Khali is a former WWE World Heavyweight Champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021. The Wrestling Observer voted him the Most Overrated in 2007 and the Worst Gimmick in 2008.

Tony Khan Comments On When Deal To Bring In Jay White Was Made

Chris Stephens
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Jay White made his AEW debut on Dynamite last night in a backstage segment with Adam Cole and the Young Bucks. Tony Khan would later post to social media that the deal to bring him in was only secured on Sunday. This was after Khan and AEW announced that there would be a big announcement made on this week’s Dynamite.

Khan said that he may have used the term “Forbidden Door” incorrectly, and this left fans assuming someone from another promotion was being brought in rather than a new signing. Evidently, Khan decided to bring in White in addition to Keith Lee to ensure these fans were satisfied.

Khan wrote:

“I didn’t secure @JayWhiteNZ until Sunday. I realized after the fact that Friday night I butchered my own definition of Forbidden Door in hyping tonight. I heard the fans’ feedback, & wanted to ensure that tonight was a special #AEWDynamite for all. Thank you everyone who watched!”

Khan’s original promise is below:

In storyline, Adam Cole brought in Jay White without mentioning this to the Young Bucks. He did the same thing with Kyle O’Reilly and just isn’t checking in with them before doing stuff. Cole also mentioned that they made an oath that they were Bullet Club 4-life. The Young Bucks, however, were concerned that White and Kenny Omega were once rivals. A Bullet Club vs Elite storyline in AEW seems imminent.

Paul Heyman Explains How He “Seduces” WWE Audiences

Michael Reichlin
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Paul Heyman is a master communicator. He is one of the greatest talkers in wrestling history and possesses a keen ability to affect audiences.

Heyman was interviewed by NOLA.com to promote Friday’s WWE SmackDown from New Orleans. He addressed WWE operating during the pandemic and the various challenges this presented.

With fans prohibited from attending live events, WWE was forced to get creative and ran shows from the ThunderDome. Wrestlers are reliant on reactions from audiences and it’s just not the same performing for LCD screens.

Some talent struggled with this format, while others thrived. Paul Heyman didn’t skip a beat and remained a prominent force during this unique period in WWE history.

“I can play the audience as my instrument.”

– Paul Heyman to NOLA.com (February 2022)

When Paul Heyman pulls back the curtain and shares clues about what makes him so great at what he does, fans need to listen up.

Heyman divulges that one trick to resonate with audiences involves viewing them as one entity instead of a collection of individuals.

“I see the audience en masse,” Heyman told NOLA. “You try to seduce as much of the crowd as possible, to be invested in your message, and the only way to do that is to present yourself to all of them, not one of them or some of them.”

Heyman crafts the delivery of his words based on what he’s sensing from the audience.

“I can play the audience as my instrument,” Heyman said. “I can ride their display of emotions to what I’m saying to make the best music possible to those living it in person or watching it at home.”

In Heyman’s opinion, the best performers work with the audience instead of speaking at them. “If the audience isn’t a character in the performance, then you’re leaving out your greatest asset.”

Keith Lee Becomes the 5th Former NXT Champion to Sign With AEW

Chris Stephens
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Keith Lee made his AEW debut last night on Dynamite. He is the 5th former NXT Champion to have signed with the promotion. Lee defeated Isiah Kassidy and earned a spot in the Face of the Revolution ladder match in the process.

Lee joins Malakai Black, Adam Cole, Andrade el Idolo, and PAC as former NXT Champions now with AEW.

With WWE’s rebrand of NXT to NXT 2.0, many wrestlers who do not fit the mold of what WWE wants on its main roster have been released or who left of their own accord.

Former NXT Champions In WWE

PAC – The former Neville in WWE has been with AEW since the beginning. Neville voluntarily left WWE in 2018. Currently, he’s a member of Death Triangle and involved in a feud with the stable of another former NXT Champion now in AEW.

Malakai Black – The former Aleister Black in WWE was released on June 2nd, 2021. Due to only having a 30-day non-compete clause, Black debuted for AEW the following month. He is a 11-2 in the promotion overall and has been spewing black mist in the face of many. That mist seems to be having a big effect on people.

Andrade el Idolo – Andrade requested and was granted his release from WWE in March of 2021. He made his debut in AEW on June 4th, 2021. He has a 10-4 record in the promotion thus far and appears to be entering a rivalry with Darby Allin and Sting as he had been attempting to get Darby to work for him.

Adam Cole – Adam Cole left WWE after TakeOver 36 as his contract with the promotion ran out. While attempts were made by WWE to re-sign him, Cole left for AEW and debuted at the end of the All Out PPV last fall. He is still undefeated in the promotion and at the end of last night’s Dynamite let it be known he wants the next shot at Hangman Page’s AEW World Championship.

Other Former NXT Champions Available

On top of the 5 former NXT Champions now in NXT, several more are currently free agents.

Samoa Joe – WWE released Samoa Joe in April 2021 and he signed a new deal with NXT shortly after. He was then released from that contract on January 6th, 2022. Joe is a 3x NXT Champion.

Killer Kross – Karrion Kross is a former 2x NXT Champion and was released from WWE on November 4th, 2021. His is now a free agent as his 90-days non-compete period has expired.

Johnny Gargano – Gargano’s contract with WWE expired in December and he opted not to return. The former NXT Champion is free to show up wherever he wants currently but the belief is he is taking time away for the birth of his child.

Bo Dallas: Bo Dallas was released from his contract in April last year after having been with the company for 13 years. He was the 3rd ever NXT Champion.

There have been a total of 19 NXT Champions in history:

  • 10 are still with WWE: Bron Breakker, Finn Balor, Shinsuke Nakamura, Robert Roode, Seth Rollins, Tommaso Ciampa, Big E, Kevin Owens, Drew McIntyre, Sami Zayn.
  • 5 are signed to AEW: Keith Lee, Andrade el Idolo, PAC, Malakai Black, Adam Cole.
  • 4 are free agents: Killer Kross, Samoa Joe, Johnny Gargano, Bo Dallas.

Tony Khan Updates Kenny Omega’s Hiatus from AEW

Michael Reichlin
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Kenny Omega has been out of action since November 2021. After losing the AEW World Championship to Adam Page at Full Gear, the Best Bout Machine announced he’d need to step away from AEW. He told the Young Bucks, “I feel like there is things I gotta fix and there is things I gotta change and I can’t do it here.”

Omega had been working through injuries for months. During his reign as AEW champion, he dealt with issues affecting his knee, shoulder and an abdominal hernia.

AEW President Tony Khan spoke about Kenny Omega’s situation this week while doing the media rounds for Wednesday’s Dynamite from Atlantic City. During a discussion with PWInsider, Khan said Omega is greatly missed behind the scenes.

Kenny Omega Update

“He’s one of the greatest wrestlers of all time and was a dominant champion in AEW for almost a year,” said Khan. “I personally miss Kenny Omega being around very much. He’s healing from a bunch of injuries, significant injuries.”

“He wrestled through all of that and had some of the best matches in the history of the company while he was really beat up. And he really cares a lot about wrestling and he worked his ass off to fill up and make his matches great even when he was in a ton of pain.”

It’s believed that Kenny Omega has undergone all the necessary procedures for him to begin a road back to recovery and full health. Tony Khan still can’t believe what he was able to do in the ring while battling such extensive injuries.

“Now it’s time for him to rehabilitate and heal and he’s going to come back stronger, and comeback, I hope as good or even better than ever. I really believe the stuff he did while he was physically limited was so impressive.”

“He was coming in with major injuries and then he worked a really hard schedule here in AEW too. I think he was absolutely the wrestler of the year for 2021. And I’m very excited for Kenny Omega’s return in 2022. It’ll be a long time coming and we’d be excited to have him back.”

It will be interesting to see how Kenny Omega conducts himself when he returns. Prior to his hiatus, Omega was entrenched in the Elite with the Young Bucks, but there was tension with Adam Cole. We could see Omega and Cole jockey for control of The Elite, or he could go in an entirely different direction.

AEW Hints at Possible Jeff Hardy Arrival

Ryan Droste
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With his brother Matt already a longstanding member of AEW at this point, it wouldn’t shock anyone to see Jeff Hardy sign with the promotion very soon. And AEW themselves seem to be leaning into the rumors that Hardy could become All Elite in the near future.

On Wednesday night’s edition of AEW Dynamite, a pretty obvious nod was made in Hardy’s direction during the Keith Lee vs. Isiah Kassidy match. During the bout, Matt Hardy abandoned Kassidy by jumping the ringside guard rail and exiting through the crowd. The story was he was frustrated by another poor outing from one of his proteges.

However, the reference to Jeff came with how Matt exited the ringside area. This was exactly what Jeff Hardy did during his final match with WWE at a house show in Edinburg, Texas back in early December.

Tony Schiavone even overtly made reference to that incident on commentary during Dynamite, saying it was an “erratic” move. Reports at the time of Hardy’s WWE departure mentioned his behavior as being “erratic.” His brother Matt referenced this during a Twitch stream in January when he came to his brother’s defense, noting that WWE “may have jumped the gun” with Jeff’s release.

Kassidy’s match on Dynamite was what Hardy had previously called a “make or break” moment for him. In storyline, Hardy has been disappointed with Private Party’s inability to emerge victorious. They lost to Jurassic Express recently on Rampage, and Kassidy followed that up with a loss to Sammy Guevara.

https://twitter.com/MATTHARDYBRAND/status/1491579276499505152

Do you want to see Jeff Hardy join AEW? Who would you like to see him feud with? Let us know in the comments section below!

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

AEW Dynamite Results (2/9): Keith Lee Debuts, Texas Death Match For AEW Title, Jay White

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired live from the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Hangman Page defended the AEW Championship against Lance Archer in a Texas Deathmatch in the main event.

Dynamite Results (2/9)

  1. Wardlow def. The Blade
  2. Keith Lee def. Isiah Kassidy to qualify for the Face of the Revolution Ladder Match
  3. CM Punk & Jon Moxley def. FTR to earn Punk a rematch against MJF
  4. Jade Cargill def. A.Q.A to retain the TBS Championship
  5. Serena Deeb def. Katie Arquette via submission
  6. Hangman Page def. Lance Archer in a Texas Death Match to retain the AEW Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

CM Punk Wants A Rematch Against MJF

Wardlow brought out some cardboard cutouts of MJF’s victory over CM Punk last week. Wardlow handed Justin Roberts some cards to introduce members of The Pinnacle. Justin referred to MJF as the man who beat CM Punk twice in that dumpster Chicago.

MJF was carried down the entrance ramp on a throne and had a big grin on his face. MJF then made out with one of the girls before getting into the ring for a bro hug with The Pinnacle. The crowd chanted “shut the f*ck up!” at MJF as he boasted about defeating CM Punk twice.

Maxwell thanked Shawn Spears for warming him up and Wardlow was very angry. Spears pointed at the sign and revealed a new “Better than the best in the world and you know it” logo. MJF claimed that it was time that he become the new AEW World Champion. CM Punk came out without any music and asked for a microphone.

Tony Schiavone interviewed Punk and he joked that MJF’s win in Chicago is about as suspect as his spray tan. Punk said he brought some friends and motioned to the entrance ramp. Darby Allin and Sting arrived with baseball bats in hand. Punk demanded a rematch with the guy that beat him in Chicago, Wardlow. CM Punk dared Wardlow to grow some balls and leave these jerks. MJF shouted that he beat Punk all by himself and Punk asked Wardlow if he heard that.

MJF stated that Wardlow is his best friend and that he’s not wrestling in this dump Atlantic City. MJF told Punk that he has to find a tag team partner other than Sting or Darby Allin tonight. MJF referred to them as “tweetledumb and tweetle dipsh*t”. If they can then defeat FTR, he will give Punk his rematch.

Wardlow Dominated

Wardlow faced The Blade tonight on Dynamite. Blade hit Wardlow with a chop block but he shrugged it off and planted him with a Suplex. Wardlow sold a knee injury as Dynamite went to a commercial break. When Dynamite returned, Wardlow drove Blade to the corner and beat him down.

Wardlow unloaded an elbow to the face as Shawn Spears enjoyed the match from the entrance ramp. Wardlow planted Blade with a big Powerbomb and the crowd started chanting for another one. Wardlow hit another Powerbomb and ignored Spears as he told him to go for the cover. Wardlow hit two more Powerbombs for the pinfall victory. After the match, Shawn Spears got into the ring and hit Blade with a chair.

Inner Circle Is Falling Apart, Jay White Appears

Chris Jericho requested an Inner Circle meeting and the group came down to the ring as the crowd sang along to “Judas”. Santana and Ortiz came to the ring with different theme music and not sporting an Inner Circle vest. Santana said that Chris Jericho only cares about himself at the end of the day. Santana added that they haven’t been able to go after the tag titles because they have to come to Jericho’s rescue. Santana said it was always the fans that kept them going and he would have dropped Jericho’s ass a long time ago if it wasn’t for Ortiz.

Jericho asked Santana what has Eddie Kingston ever done for them and said that he is The Influencer in this company. Chris noted that they had their chance at the tag titles a year ago and they lost to the Young Bucks. Things got heated and Santana grabbed Jericho be the throat. Sammy broke it up and Jericho shoved him away. Jericho tried to apologize but Sammy cut him off. Guevara said he has quit this group before and threw his Inner Circle vest in the ring. Sammy said his goal is to become the best champion of all time and this bickering isn’t going to help that. Ortiz and Santana then challenged Jericho & Hager to a match to settle it.

After the match, Jay White showed up and helped Young Bucks & Adam Cole beatdown Trent & Rocky Romero. Later on Dynamite, Young Bucks complained about Adam Cole inviting Jay White because he used to be enemies with Kenny Omega.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1491592268431691776?s=20&t=sJeBvOSnZAH-JL6usQNPcg

Keith Lee Debuted With A Win

Keith Lee made his AEW debut and faced Isiah Kassidy tonight. The winner will qualify for the Face of the Revolution Ladder Match. Keith Lee launched Kassidy across the ring as Matt Hardy flipped out ringside. Lee connected with a Crossbody but Kassidy battled back with a Dropkick. Keith got distracted by Quen and Kassidy hit a Corkscrew Splash.

Matt Hardy exited through the crowd as Keith Lee battled back. Lee hit a massive Powerslam and won via pinfall. Keith Lee is in the Face of the Revolution Ladder match. Marq Quen attacked Keith Lee after the match. Private Party knocked Lee to the outside and tried to leap onto him. Keith caught Kassidy and slammed him down. Lee then Powerbombed Quen on the ring apron to end the segment.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1491589711059689477?s=20&t=sJeBvOSnZAH-JL6usQNPcg

CM Punk Teamed With Jon Moxley, Earned A Rematch Against MJF

FTR battled CM Punk and a mystery partner tonight. It was revealed to be Jon Moxley and that got a great reaction from the crowd. MJF and Shawn Spears were in disbelief watching backstage as Moxley made his way through the crowd.

Punk and Dax Harwood started off the match and locked up in the middle of the ring. Punk hit a shoulder tackle but Dax responded with an Arm Drag. Dax retreated to the corner before locking up with Punk again. Punk took control and Cash Wheeler tagged in. CM Punk greeted him with a Body Slam and tagged in Jon Moxley.

Jon and Harwood locked up. Moxley got in a Headlock but Harwood escaped with an Arm Drag. Harwood applied a Headlock in the middle of the ring but Moxley battled to his feet. Punk tagged in and FTR took back control of the match.

Punk eventually escaped to the corner and tagged in Moxley. Jon started unloaded Clotheslines and delivered a double DDT to FTR. When Dynamite returned from a break, FTR was back in control and had Moxley isolated in the corner. Punk shoved Wheeler off the turnbuckle as Moxley battled with Harwood. Moxley got Harwood up in the Electric Chair and Punk climbed to the top rope. Moxley took out Wheeler with a Crossbody and Punk went for the cover but Dax kicked out at two.

Harwood connected with a Brainbuster on Punk but he was able to kick out at the last moment and the match continued. Punk went for the GTS but FTR countered into the Big Rig. Wheeler went for the cover but Moxley broke it up at two. Moxley and Punk went for their finishers but FTR escaped again. FTR shoved Moxley out of the ring but he got back inside and broke up a Piledriver. Referee Aubrey Edwards was distracted with Moxley and missed Wheeler tapping out to the Anaconda Vice. Punk hit Tully with a GTS that looked terrible. Wheeler rolled him up from behind for a near fall. Punk finally hit the GTS on Dax for the pinfall victory.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1491599319945953284?s=20&t=sJeBvOSnZAH-JL6usQNPcg

Jade Cargill Is 27-0

Jade Cargill battled A.Q.A tonight on Dynamite in a TBS Championship match. Jade slammed her to the mat right away but A.Q.A. got back up. Cargill showed off her power and lifted A.Q.A up with one arm. A.Q.A hit a Dropkick that knocked the champion out of the ring. Jade shrugged it off and swatted A.Q.A to the floor as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, A.Q.A hit a Crossbody that knocked Jade to the mat. She followed it up with a Shooting Star Press and went for the cover but Cargill kicked out at two. Cargill connected with Jaded for the pinfall victory and is now 27-0.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1491600326465658881?s=20&t=sJeBvOSnZAH-JL6usQNPcg

Serena Deeb Picked Up A Win

Serena Deeb made her way to the ring and boasted about only taking three minutes to defeat Sky Blue. Deeb wondered who wanted to get in the ring with her next for The Professor’s 5 Minute Rookie Challenge. Deeb defeated Katie Arquette in a minute.

Hangman Page Retained The AEW Title

Hangman Page defended the AEW Championship in a Texas Death Match. Hangman sent Archer through glass on the entrance ramp and brought him to the ring. Page leveled Archer with the Buckshot Lariat and the challenger fell out of the ring. Lance Archer was busted open as Dan Lambert came down to the ring. Lambert started unscrewing the turnbuckle as Archer beat Hangman down.

The action spilled into the crowd and Hangman connected with a Moonsault. Hangman brought Archer back into the ring but couldn’t go for the Buckshot Lariat because Lambert and Jake Roberts had removed the turnbuckles and the ropes were on the canvas. Archer capitalized and beat Hangman down as Dynamite went to a final commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, there were two tables set up next to the ring as Page and Archer were battling on the ring apron. Hangman was now bleeding from the face too. Jake Roberts hit Hangman with a Clothesline and went for a DDT but Archer shoved him away. Hangman capitalized with a DDT on the floor and rolled Archer back into the ring. Archer caught Hangman with a Chokeslam on top of a trash can.

Lance then stabbed the AEW Champion in the head with a fork over and over before throwing him out of the ring. Archer connected with a Cannonball off the apron and raised the AEW Championship. Lance rolled Hangman into the ring and grabbed a few chairs from under the ring. Archer hit Hangman with a Blackout onto the steel steps and rolled the bloodied champion back into the ring. Archer set up a barbed wire chair and lifted Hangman up for a Powerbomb.

Hangman escaped and wrapped barbed wire around his forearm. Hangman hit Archer a couple times before planting him with a Belly to Back Suplex. Hangman used the referee as a springboard for a Buckshot Lariat through both tables outside the ring. Page got into the ring before the ten count to win the match and retain the AEW World Championship.

After the match, Adam Cole marched to the ring and ripped the AEW Championship away from the referee. Cole stared at Hangman before putting the belt on his shoulder. Cole said some words to the champion and left the ring to close the show.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1491608969621778432?s=20&t=sJeBvOSnZAH-JL6usQNPcg

Jay White Appears On AEW Dynamite

Andrew Ravens
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“Switchblade” Jay White made an appearance on Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite when during a backstage segment where The Young Bucks and Adam Cole attacked Roppongi Vice members Trent Baretta and Rocky Romero.

White has been mentioning All Elite Wrestling in recent weeks while doing promos. In a night full of surprises, White was just one of them that AEW President Tony Khan was talking about. 

White broke into the pro wrestling business in 2013 and first worked for NJPW in 2015 before going to ROH in 2016 then back to New Japan Pro Wrestling. While working for the Japan-based promotion, he held the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, Intercontinental Championship, NEVER Openweight Championship, and United States Heavyweight Championship.

Through NJPW’s affiliation with Impact Wrestling, White started working for the promotion last year. His most recent win in Impact came on the January 22nd episode of Impact when he teamed with Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa to defeat Violent By Design (Deaner, Eric Young & Joe Doering). 

White hasn’t worked a match in Japan since NJPW Wrestling Dontaku 2021 – Tag 2 on May 4, 2021. Instead, the promotion has been using them for the NJPW Strong brand here in the United States. 

White is slated to wrestle Eric Young at next Saturday’s Impact No Surrender special. 

Lance Archer Discusses the Severity of his Neck Injury

Tyriece Simon
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All Elite Wrestling talent Lance Archer has detailed the severity of the neck injury from last year.

Wrestling fans were concerned about Archer’s wrestling career in a match against Eddie Kingston at AEW Dynamite on Oct 23, 2021. The neck injury occurred when he landed on his head doing a moonsault from the top rope. While he finished the match, the damage caused him to miss two months from wrestling.

Archer returned to AEW on Jan 12 by attacking AEW Heavyweight Champion Adam Page. He challenges the champion for the title in a Texas Death Match on AEW Dynamite on Feb 9. The title challenger appeared on Busted Open on Sirus XM to discuss his neck injury and if he’s ready to wrestle again.

“I feel great. Beyond blessed for the fact that I actually didn’t break my neck,” said Archer. He explained,”… A centimeter a different way and, it could’ve been a different result. I basically gave myself an extreme version of whiplash because I bounced off my forehead, but if it had been any part of the crown of my head, I probably would’ve been paralyzed or dead. So beyond blessed that it didn’t happen, and then the medical staff here has been extremely amazing.

They kept me on the road and kept me in physical therapy here with our guys and, I’ve done everything they asked me to do before coming back and even before this match. You know every day that the different physical exercises that they asked me to do, I’ve stayed on top of them and, they’ve been extremely happy and like I said I feel great.”

Lance Archer
(via AEW)

Is Archer Concerned Taking the Buck Shot Lariat?

Archer feels confident challenging Page for the AEW title. He has competed in a Texas Death Match before and has a win over Jon Moxley for the IWGP United States Championship at Fyter Fest on Jul 21, 2021. Although, recovered neck injury does create concern if he could take certain moves, including Page’s Buck Shot Lariat. The champion connects with the lariat to the neck and chest area, potentially causing whiplash to the opponent’s neck. However, Archer isn’t concerned and plans to win the championship.

“…If you go into this business if you go into any match with any trepidation and worry that when you get hurt. If I’m worried about his finish, If I’m worried about any of these moves, If I’m worried about doing another moonsault and landing on my head, If I’m worried about any of that when I’ll get hurt,” said Archer.

It’s unclear if Page will try to be extra protective of Archer after his neck injury. Although it seems the challenger is ready to do what it takes to defeat the AEW champion.

Ric Flair (Still) Can’t Stop Talking Trash About Becky Lynch

Michael Reichlin
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Wrestling legend Ric Flair is taking aim at Becky Lynch once again.

The war of words between these two has been ongoing for quite some time. From their dispute over who is truly The Man to Lynch’s rocky relationship with Charlotte, these two really do not get along.

In the lead-up to Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair’s match at Survivor Series, Flair said “there’s not enough choreography in the business to save you.”

Flair got a ton of negative attention from the Dark Side of the Ring episode about the Plane Ride from Hell. Lynch was asked about that situation and her beef with Charlotte Flair during a November interview with Ariel Helwani. She didn’t hold back.

“It’s really sad, because this is a legend at one point, Ric Flair is now jealous of me,” said Lynch. “It’s cool for me, he’s now using me to get clout to promote whatever he has going on because he’s dug himself into a hole with other things.”

Flair Says Lynch has “No Drip”

becky lynch migos

Last month, Ric Flair attempted to slight Becky Lynch once again, seemingly out of the blue. Lynch took a photo with rap group Migos over the weekend at the WWE Day 1 pay-per-view. Migos is comprised of Offset, Quavo and Takeoff.

Flair previously worked with Offset for the Ric Flair Drip music video. He posted a comparison photo of them both and claims Becky Lynch ‘has no drip and never will.’ Flair has since deleted the tweet.

Ric Flair & Becky Lynch Beef Continues

On the latest episode of his Wooooo Nation podcast, Ric Flair hurled insults at Becky Lynch yet again. Flair called Becky Lynch generic, stupid and out of her mind.

While talking about Ronda Rousey’s return to WWE, Flair ran down Big Time Becks for referring to Rousey as Ronnie.

“Anybody who is stupid enough to call her ‘Ronnie’ and make a joke of her presence, what she brings to the company, is out of their mind,” said Flair.

Becky Lynch fired back at the Nature Boy with a zinger of her own. She told her 2.1 million Twitter followers, “Work so hard your heroes become your rivals. Then, become so good, Ric Flair loses his mind every time you breathe.”

Tony Khan Addresses Potential AEW Roster Cuts

Chris Stephens
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Tony Khan recently addressed potential roster cuts in AEW. Khan was speaking with TV Insider when he noted that some more wrestlers will likely not have their contracts renewed by the company.

“When we started a lot of people had contracts that were a couple of years long and a lot of them are coming up,” Khan said. “I have really tried hard to be very considerate of the people on the roster, especially going through the pandemic. That encompassed a long period of time where we were still in our first year of television and going into our second.”

Wrestlers Kept Under Contract During The Pandemic

Khan said he didn’t want to release anyone during the pandemic. He says this was because he knew it would be difficult for them to get work elsewhere during that time.

“I kept a lot of people under contract even though I wasn’t necessarily using them on television because I wanted them to still have paying work, which was hard to come by for wrestling during the pandemic where there weren’t any independent shows. Really only two places were running and the other place was cutting people left and right.”

Several new names have joined the promotion lately. This has led to others on the roster not being utilized as frequently. Ultimately, those not being utilized may not have their contracts renewed by the promotion.

“I did want to give some job security to people,” Khan continued.”Now with so many wrestlers coming in, I can’t renew all the contracts. I’ve had to make some tough choices based on ability, fan response, or both. I try to maintain the best roster I can for the company and fans.”

Lio Rush’s contract with AEW runs out on February 14th and he has announced he will be a free agent after. Peter Avalon’s contract was not renewed. Big Swole’s contract was also not renewed. Others that have been talked about as possibly not getting renewed include Brian Cage and Joey Janela, though that is just speculation.

Ric Flair Hopes Shane McMahon Leaving WWE is a Work

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair believes Shane McMahon’s departure from WWE is legitimate and not part of a wrestling storyline.

The Nature Boy spoke about Shane’s falling out with WWE on the latest episode of his Wooooo Nation podcast.

Shane McMahon’s surprise return at the Royal Rumble was short-lived. There were plans for Shane to be part of WWE storylines through WrestleMania, but all of that was scrapped after he exhibited what many observers called unprofessional behavior backstage at the Rumble event.

Ric Flair says he’s very fond of the entire McMahon family and thinks the whole situation is very unfortunate.

“I like Shane McMahon as a person, he has always been great to me my whole life,” said Flair. “Of course, I do not have enough good things to say about Vince. It’s a very uncomfortable topic and situation for me to discuss because I just do not know enough about it.”

When asked if WWE sending Shane McMahon home was a work, Flair says he hopes so, but he doubts it.

“No, but I really do not see Shane being put through this brief period of humiliation for it to be something that’s not real either,” he continued. “If your family is as closely knit as they are, why would you let that be the top subject in WWE news for two weeks? I hope it’s a work.”

Flair added that he does not expect Shane McMahon to join All Elite Wrestling (AEW), despite speculation that he could be the mystery surprise advertised for Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite.

Listen to the latest episode of Ric Flair’s Wooooo Nation podcast here:

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