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Gail Kim Did Not Know About Awesome Kong’s Retirement Before EmPowerrr

Anutosh Bajpai
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Gail Kim shared a very emotional moment with Awesome Kong at the NWA EmPowerrr PPV when the latter announced her retirement from pro wrestling during a segment. Turns out the moment between the two was as real as it could get and the TNA Hall Of Famer did not know about the announcement of her friend beforehand.

Kim revealed this information during a recent appearance on the Battleground podcast. She said that she found out about it at the same time as all the fans:

“Honestly, I didn’t know she was gonna stay in the ring that night, I found out at the same time as all the fans watching that she was retiring. Yeah, Mickie and I both.”

The NWA EmPowerrr saw Gail Kim coming out to cut a promo but she was interrupted by Taryn Terrell and two other female stars. Awesome Kong then made a surprise appearance at the show. She came to the aid of her long-term rival and friend.

After clearing the house, Kong grabbed the mic and told the former knockouts champion that she was her greatest foe. She then said that there was no other way to end her career then being in the ring with Kim.

Sean Waltman Reveals His Text Exchange With Triple H After Medical Procedure

Anutosh Bajpai
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Sean Waltman talked about a number of things on the latest episode of his Pro Wrestling 4 Life podcast. He also revealed an interesting text exchange with Triple H after The Game’s recent medical procedure.

The former WWE star first explained how he has a running joke with the WWE EVP from the time he promised to call him later but never did:

“I haven’t talked to him on the phone, but we had this running joke, Paul and I, we’d be talking forever, be on the phone for an hour or two, and finally, whenever it was time for Paul to get off the phone, he’d go, ‘Are you going to be around later?’ And he never called me later.”

Sean Waltman then revealed that he also found out about Triple H’s emergency operation like everyone else. He detailed the exchange he had with him afterward:

“I just texted him, ‘Hey man, I’m glad you’re gonna be around later,’ and he just said, ‘Me too. Love you, kiddo,’ and that’s it. That’s the extent of what I know. I wasn’t gonna say, ‘Tell me what happened.’ I don’t need to know. I just need to know he’s okay.”

Latest updates on Triple H’s status reveal that the Game is getting better after his cardiac event. He is able to talk to people over the phone. Though talent have been told not to talk business with him.

Sean Waltman Comments On CM Punk vs Darby Allin’s Homage To Bret Hart vs 1-2-3 Kid

Gable Steveson: I Have The Charisma To Be Everything

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Gable Steveson believes he’ll be able to portray just about any character asked of him.

Steveson is a highly-touted prospect who has been signed to a WWE contract. The Olympic gold medalist will finish his collegiate career before starting with WWE. Steveson is just WWE’s second Olympic gold medalist. The first, of course, was Kurt Angle.

During an appearance on MMAFighting’s The MMA Hour, Steveson told Ariel Helwani that his charisma will shine bright in WWE.

“I don’t know my style yet, but I think I can pull off the American Hero really well, especially being a gold medalist. Kurt [Angle] was the only one – I don’t have a broken freakin’ neck, and I hear it all day on Twitter. ‘You don’t have a broken neck, you’re not the real gold medalist.’ So I heard it all day in all my messages. I’m sorry I didn’t have a broken neck, but I still got a gold medal….there are so many styles I could play, there are so many styles I’m ready to play. I’m open to anything – American Hero, bruiser, heel, bad guy, good guy. I think I have the characteristics and charisma to be everything. I’m just waiting to see who I’m gonna be.”

WWE hit the jackpot with Kurt Angle. Angle not only ended up being an elite worker, but he also had a strong personality and fit the bill of a true sports entertainer. Whether or not Steveson can find similar success remains to be seen.

Gable Steveson also told Helwani that he believes he will ultimately skip NXT and go straight to the main roster. With that said, Steveson wouldn’t be opposed to starting off in developmental if that’s what WWE wants to do.

https://www.mmanews.com/2021/09/gable-steveson-reveals-the-hate-hes-received-for-wwe-signing-2/

Taz Files To Trademark Signature Catchphrase

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Taz has a well-known catchphrase that he has filed a trademark for.

During his time as an active wrestler, Taz was known as the “Human Suplex Machine.” His MMA-type style in the ring gave him a unique look in ECW. He ended up becoming a two-time ECW World Champion. Taz was known for saying “beat me if you can, survive if I let you.”

USPTO reveals that he has filed a trademark for the catchphrase.

“Mark For: BEAT ME IF YOU CAN SURVIVE IF I LET YOU™ trademark registration is intended to cover the categories of entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, live appearances by a a professional wrestler and sports entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, personal appearances by a professional wrestler and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, televised appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network; Providing online interviews featuring a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality in the field of professional wrestling and sports entertainment for entertainment purposes.”

We’ve seen the catchphrase used in the feud between Team Taz and CM Punk under the AEW banner. CM Punk used the catchphrase against Taz, which didn’t make him very happy.

Punk is set to take on Powerhouse Hobbs of Team Taz on the AEW Grand Slam edition of Dynamite on Sept. 22.

WWE Teases Brock Lesnar Moving To RAW In Upcoming Draft

Chris Stephens
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WWE has teased that Brock Lesnar could be drafted to RAW in the near future. The upcoming WWE Draft is scheduled to take place on the October 1st edition of Smackdown and the October 4th edition of WWE RAW.

During last night’s edition of WWE Smackdown, Kayla Braxton approached Paul Heyman and stated that she has heard Lesnar could be headed to RAW. Heyman blew her off, however, and downplayed the “rumors.”


WWE’s TV Partners Want Big Attractions

According to Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men podcast, the Fox and USA networks have both requested that WWE book RAW and Smackdown equally, with neither show being considered the B-show.

“From speaking a lot of my friends at the networks, they’re alluding that when you see something big happen on one, expect something big to happen on the other. Maybe not the following week, but they have to treat them weekly, that’s true,” Zarian said on the podcast.

There have also been rumblings that Drew McIntyre could be switching brands during the draft. Zarian Tweeted out an image of a match graphic featuring Roman Reigns facing Drew McIntyre for the Universal title on an episode of Smackdown.

Impact Victory Road: Final Card For Tonight, How To Order

Michael Reichlin
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Impact Wrestling presents Victory Road tonight live from Nashville, Tennessee at Skyway Studios. The show begins at 8pm (Eastern).

Order Impact Victory Road at FITE ($9.99)

The main event will see Christin Cage defend the Impact World Championship against Ace Austin.

The “Walking Weapon” Josh Alexander looks to prove he’s the greatest X-Division Champion in history. He defends against 8-time champion, Chris Sabin.

The Knockouts Tag Team Titles will also be up for grabs, as Rosemary & Havok defend against Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans.

Victory Road Matches

The following matches are scheduled for tonight:

  • Impact World Champion Christian Cage vs Ace Austin
  • X Division Champion Josh Alexander vs Chris Sabin
  • Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan vs Moose & W. Morrissey
  • FinJuice (David Finlay and Juice Robinson) vs Bullet Club (Chris Bey and Hikuleo)
  • Knockouts Tag Team Champions Decay (Havok and Rosemary) vs Savannah Evans and Tasha Steelz

How to Order Victory Road

Order Impact Victory Road is available to fans who subscribe to the Impact Plus streaming service. You can also purchase the event easily from FITE for just $9.99.

image 100125452 15046371

G1 Climax 31 Results (Sept. 18): Shingo Takagi vs. Tomohiro Ishii

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The first night of the G1 Climax tournament has come to an end.

Night one was held inside Edion Arena in Osaka on Sept. 18. The card was headlined by an A block match between IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Shingo Takagi and Tomohiro Ishii. Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Tetsuya Naito served as the co-main event.

In total, there were five A block matches and one non-G1 Climax match. The non-tournament match was SHO going up against Young Lion Ryohei Owia. The other A block matches were KENTA vs. Toru Yano, Great-O-Khan vs. Tanga Loa, and Kota Ibushi vs. Yujiro Takahashi.

Here are the full results from night one of the G1 Climax 31.

  • SHO def. Ryohei Owia – non-G1 Climax match
  • Yujiro Takahashi def. Kota Ibushi
  • Great-O-Khan def. Tanga Loa
  • Toru Yano def. KENTA
  • Zack Sabre Jr. def. Tetsuya Naito
  • Shingo Takagi def. Tomohiro Ishii

Here are some highlights of the matches.

SHO vs. Ryohei Owia

Yujiro Takahashi vs. Kota Ibushi

Great-O-Khan vs. Tanga Loa

Toru Yano vs. KENTA

Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Tetsuya Naito

Shingo Takagi vs. Tomohiro Ishii

Ric Flair CarShield Campaign Paused Amid ‘Dark Side’ Controversy

Chris Stephens
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The fallout from Thursday’s Dark Side of the Ring episode on 2002’s Plane Ride From Hell has been swift. A national advertising campaign for Carshield featuring Ric Flair has now been paused due to the allegations made against Flair in the episode.

According to PWInsider, the ad campaign has been paused “pending additional investigation and decisions.”

Intermedia, the ad agency that runs the campaign issued the following statement addressing their decision to put Flair on ice:

“We take these matters very seriously. As of right now, we are pausing the campaign and we will do our due diligence.”

– Intermedia

Ric Flair has yet to release a public statement since the Plane Ride From Hell episode of Dark Side of the Ring aired Thursday night. However, he did speak with Renee Paquette about the situation on a recent episode of her Oral Sessions podcast.

“We’ll see how it plays out, because I was there and I don’t care whose name I gotta drop if the heat falls on me. I know who was where and what and who and what took place. I know the whole story,” Flair said on the podcast.

flair cartoon
(Photo: ESPN)

Ric Flair is not the only person facing negative ramifications this week. Tommy Dreamer has been suspended from Impact Wrestling as a result of his comments on the episode defending Flair’s actions.

GCW Highest In The Room Results (Sept. 17): Suzuki vs. Gresham

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The Sept. 17 edition of GCW Highest in the Room has come to a close and the results are in.

This event was held inside the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Los Angeles, California. Highest in the Room saw Japanese wrestling legend Minoru Suzuki take on former ROH Pure Champion Jonathan Gresham. Suzuki won the match and afterward, he found himself in a brawl with Nick Gage.

https://twitter.com/bigwillieisms/status/1439116854925176833

Fans also got to witness comedian Ron Funches in action. He took on Tony Deppen in a losing effort.

https://twitter.com/dabbath_/status/1439108068373975041
https://twitter.com/dabbath_/status/1439109522920853506

It wouldn’t be GCW without a deathmatch and the promotion didn’t disappoint here. Alex Colon defeated G-Rave in the special death match for the night.

https://twitter.com/Choose_Death_/status/1439157388263575552

MLW World Champion Jacob Fatu was in action as well. He lost to Chris Dickinson by way of disqualification.

Here’s a look at the rest of the GCW Highest in the Room results from Sept. 17.

  • ASF def. Arez, Eli Everfly, Everett Connors, Gringo Loco, & Jimmy Lloyd
  • 2 Cold Scorpio def. Effy
  • Alex Zayne def. Jordan Oliver
  • Atticus Cogar def. Ninja Mack
  • The Second Gear Crew def. Lucas Riley, Nick Wayne & Starboy Charlie
  • Death Match: Alex Colon def. G-Raver
  • Chris Dickinson def. Jacob Fatu via DQ
  • Tony Deppen def. Ron Funches
  • Minoru Suzuki def. Jonathan Gresham

Finn Balor On Potential WrestleMania Match With John Cena

Anutosh Bajpai
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Finn Balor has not forgotten how John Cena took the opportunity of facing Roman Reigns at SummerSlam from him and he wants to settle his score with the cenation leader at WrestleMania.

The former Universal champion recently had an interview with The Mirror. He talked about things such as his time in the independent wrestling circuit and more.

Speaking of the potential match against Cena, Balor said that he can’t think of a better place to face the 16-time world champion than WrestleMania:

“I can’t think of a better place to face John Cena than at WrestleMania, I’ve got a bone to pick with John, the SummerSlam main event was mine, my name was printed on the contract, however, John signed it.

There’s certainly an issue that needs to be settled between me and John” said Finn Balor, “And if we can do that at WrestleMania all the better.”

The July 30 episode of SmackDown featured a contract signing segment where Balor was attacked by Baron Corbin before he could sign the SummerSlam contract to face Roman Reigns. John Cena then came out and signed the contract.

Though Finn Balor will get his opportunity to capture the Universal title when he faces Roman Reigns in a one-on-one match at the upcoming Extreme Rules PPV.

Finn Balor: I Love The Idea Of The ‘Forbidden Door’

Tony Khan ‘Excited’ About Future Plans For AEW’s Women’s Division

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Tony Khan promises he has something good cooked up for the AEW women’s division.

AEW is riding a ton of momentum with the recent acquisitions of CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, Adam Cole, and Ruby Soho. The promotion has also been gaining steam in terms of viewership. While AEW is on a high at the moment, many have criticized the company over its women’s division.

The problem doesn’t lie with talent. For critics, the issue is not showcasing multiple women’s matches on Dynamite and simply plopping those bouts on AEW Dark.

Khan addressed the criticism during his appearance on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio.

“That was one of the statements I really wanted to make at All Out, we made a ton of statements at All Out. [All Out] was our most successful pay-per-view and really, one of the great pay-per-view success stories of the last 20 years, I really believe the [women’s] division has gotten so strong and it’s gotten to be a real strength of AEW and we have a great Women’s World Champion, Dr. Britt Baker. We have some great contenders coming up and I have some real plans for the women’s division I’m very excited about and really, nobody knows about what this stuff is because I’ve got some really great matches up my sleeve and some exciting plans. But what’s happening right now is tremendous.”

At first, AEW’s women’s division appeared to be going in the direction of having a slew of Joshi talent. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, things drastically changed. Britt Baker has emerged as a star for the company but air time seems to be an issue for the rest of the female talent. That includes Hikaru Shida, who was the longest-reigning AEW Women’s Champion. Shida has mostly been seen on AEW Dark since losing the gold to Baker back in May.

Stephen Amell Says He Will Be Attending Dynamite: Grand Slam

Anutosh Bajpai
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Stephen Amell has confirmed that he will be attending the upcoming AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam special from Arthur Ashe Stadium on September 22.

The Arrow star revealed this news in a video he posted on Instagram. He was promoting the debut of the first three episodes of his Heels series on the Starz app:

“You are gonna be seeing me in some capacity on your television I believe on Wednesday the 22nd,” said Amell, “I am gonna be at the AEW show at Arthur Ashe Stadium.”

The TV star is friends with the Elite and especially with Cody Rhodes. His friendship with Rhodes dates back to the time he teamed up with Neville to face Cody and Wade Barrett at SummerSlam 2015.

Stephen Amell has made several wrestling appearances since then. He has also competed in matches for different promotions including a tag match for ROH and a singles match against Christopher Daniels at All In.

Cody Rhodes is set to make his return to AEW programming during next week’s Grand Slam special as well. He is announced for a singles match against Malakai Black.

There is no word yet on what Amell will be doing at the show but the obvious speculation is that he might get involved in this bout in some capacity.

Cody Rhodes On Stephen Amell Possibly Wrestling For AEW

Britt Baker On CM Punk Mentioning Her Name During His Debut Promo

Anutosh Bajpai
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When CM Punk made his AEW debut during the August 20 episode of Rampage, he took the name of two AEW stars in his promo – Darby Allin and Britt Baker. Even out of these two, Punk took Baker’s name first and according to the current women’s champion, it was a very very cool feeling for her.

The current champion recently had an interview with ESPN. When asked how she felt when Punk mentioned her on his promo, she said that Punk is an idol of her:

“So you gotta remember I am a fan. I grew up watching CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, Christian, Matt Hardy.” said Britt Baker, “So all these guys I get to work with now is surreal. It’s like a ‘pinch me’ moment. That my idols are my co-workers.

So I am in the back at the screen watching as a fan, watching CM Punk and he says my name, I am like ‘Did everybody hear that?’ I mean it’s so cool. Sure, we share the stage and we are both stars but that’s somebody that I was a fan of. So that’s a very very cool feeling as a wrestler, as a wrestling fan, for someone you idolize to say your name.”

Britt Baker was also asked about the rise of Becky Lynch and if she sees herself becoming the biggest star in AEW to which she replied positively. The current AEW women’s champion is set to defend her title against Ruby Soho at next week’s AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam special from Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Please credit SEScoops.com if using any quotes transcribed from this article.

Ruby Soho On Thinking She Would Never Make It To WWE

Anutosh Bajpai
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Before she found a new welcoming home in AEW, Ruby Soho made her name in WWE. Though there was a time when she thought she would never make it to the company because of her appearance.

The former WWE star recently had an interview with Digital Spy. She talked about things such as her expectations for All Out, her theme song, and more.

Discussing her time in WWE, Soho mentioned how she initially didn’t think she would be hired by the promotion because they didn’t hire people that looked like her:

“I never thought that I was going to make it to WWE, at the time that I had started [wrestling], they weren’t hiring women that looked like me. but then, right, place, right time, they started hiring people that looked different.”

Though even after being signed by WWE, Ruby Soho couldn’t find a place for herself there. On the other hand, she felt like she was at home immediately in AEW:

“But I still felt like I couldn’t quite find my place and didn’t quite fit in and then coming to AEW, it was instant. It was immediate, I felt like I was home.”

Ruby Soho made her surprise AEW debut at All Out. She is set to challenge Britt Baker for the women’s championship at next week’s Dynamite: Grand Slam special.

Ruby Soho Discusses AEW Debut & WWE Departure

Latest On When The WWE Contract Of Sami Zayn Expires

Anutosh Bajpai
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Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer has confirmed that WWE has added time to the contract of Sami Zayn for the period he missed after his shoulder surgeries in 2018.

The wrestling journalist previously reported that the former NXT champion’s WWE contract was going to expire sometime before the current year ends. Though later reports contradicted these claims.

Meltzer corrected his report about Zayn recently and he wrote that WWE “may have extended it as much as nine-and-a-half months so it could be March or April depending on the length of time it was frozen before he’s a free agent.”

The former IC champion signed a three-year deal with WWE back in June 2018. So his contract would have already expired if it wasn’t for the added time.

Unfortunately for Sami Zayn, he missed about 10 months of action after having double shoulder surgeries right after the signing of his current deal. This means he will have to wait until next year before he can get free.

His friend Kevin Owens seems to be on track to leaving WWE and joining his pals at AEW once his contract expires in January 2022.

The fans of Sami Zayn on the other hand will have to wait for an extended period before we can know what decision he makes about his future.

Talents Reportedly Told Not To Talk Business With Triple H

Anutosh Bajpai
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Talents have been told not to talk about WWE business while speaking to Triple H after his emergency procedure earlier this month according to the latest reports.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer recently provided some updates on The Game’s health and status. He noted that the former world champion is in good enough shape to take calls:

“Everything remains quiet regarding Paul Levesque [Triple H]. We are told that he’s in good enough shape that he is taking calls. Talent was told that they can call him and wish him well but that they are not to talk any WWE business with him.”

WWE sent out a statement earlier this month announcing that the Executive Vice President underwent a successful procedure following a cardiac event.

End Of Triple H’s NXT?

The timing of this health event was unfortunate for NXT talents as the show’s rebranding brought a lot of uncertainty to the NXT locker room and the absence of Triple H created an environment of trepidation.

Though a small relief for the stars was that Shawn Michaels was the one running things at the development territory in the absence of his best friend.

There is no word yet on how long Triple H may take to recover or when he will be back in office. We will keep you posted on his status.

Backstage News On Why Several WWE NXT Contracts Are Expiring This Year

Three Matches Added To AEW Grand Slam Rampage

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Some more matches have been added to the upcoming AEW Grand Slam edition of Rampage.

AEW is making its way to Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City. The promotion will be airing Dynamite live on Sept. 22. They will also be taping a special two-hour edition of Rampage.

Three more matches for the Rampage show have been revealed. Leading the pack in terms of the announcement is a Lights Out match featuring Jon Moxley & Eddie Kingston vs. Minori Suzuki & Lance Archer. An eight-man tag team match between Lucha Bros & Proud N Powerful vs. Private Party & The Butcher and The Blade has also been announced.

There will also be a singles match between Anna Jay and Penelope Ford.

Here’s a look at the final card for the AEW Grand Slam edition of Dynamite and Rampage.

AEW Dynamite (Live On Sept. 22)

  • Kenny Omega vs. Bryan Danielson (Non-Title Match)
  • Britt Baker (c) vs. Ruby Soho (AEW Women’s World Championship)
  • Malakai Black vs. Cody Rhodes
  • Sting and Darby Allin vs. FTR
  • MJF vs. Brian Pillman Jr.

AEW Rampage (Airs On Sept. 24)

  • Adam Cole & The Young Bucks vs. Christian Cage & Jurassic Express
  • Powerhouse Hobbs vs. CM Punk
  • Lights Out Match: Jon Moxley & Eddie Kingston vs. Minoru Suzuki & Lance Archer
  • Chris Jericho & Jake Hager vs. Scorpio Sky & Ethan Page
  • Lucha Bros & Proud N Powerful vs. Private Party & The Butcher and The Blade
  • Anna Jay vs. Penelope Ford

AEW Rampage Results (9/17): Britt Baker & Ruby Soho, Two Title Matches

Robert Lentini
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AEW Rampage aired from the Prudential Center in New Jersey. Lucha Bros put the AEW Tag Team Championships on the line against The Butcher & The Blade. Miro defended the TNT Championship against Fuego del Sol again. If Fuego lost, he would have to give his new car to Miro. AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker and Ruby Soho met face-to-face ahead of their title match next week at Dynamite Grand Slam. Bryan Danielson and Kenny Omega spoke about their upcoming match in the video package below.

Rampage Results (9/17)

  1. Lucha Bros def. The Butcher & The Blade to retain the AEW Tag Team Championships
  2. Anna Jay def. The Bunny
  3. Miro def. Fuego Del Sol to retain the TNT Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Lucha Bros Retained

Lucha Bros defended the AEW Tag Team Championships against The Butcher & The Blade in the first match of the night. The action started off back and forth before the tag champs sent the challengers out of the ring. Lucha Bros hit a couple dives but The Butcher connected with a Spear as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, Lucha Bros hit Feat Factor on The Blade but he was able to kick out. Butcher and Blade isolated Rey Fenix and trapped Pentagon in the corner by tying his mask to the ropes. Pentagon took off his mask in order to help Fenix who was getting his ass kicked at the moment. Pentagon made the save and Fenix rolled Butcher up to escape with the tag titles. After the match, Private Party, Butcher & Blade beat down Lucha Bros until Santana & Ortiz made the save. Hardy Family Office then retreated to end the segment. It was announced that Lucha Bros, Santana & Ortiz will face Private Party, The Butcher & The Blade next Friday night at Rampage Grand Slam.

https://twitter.com/Santana_Proud/status/1439058633489256454?s=20

Anna Jay def. The Bunny

The Bunny faced Anna Jay tonight on Rampage. Penelope Ford, Matt Hardy, Jack Evans & Tay Conti were ringside. Anna Jay dominated early and planted Bunny with a Suplex. The Bunny pulled herself up in and Anna caught her with an elbow to the face. Anna Jay connected with a shoulder tackle as Dynamite went to a break. Anna Jay quickly won the match after the break. After the match, The Bunny and Penelope Ford attacked Tay and Anna. Penelope brought brass knuckles into the ring and laid them both out. It was announced that Penelope Ford will face Anna Jay next Friday at Rampage Grand Slam.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1439053651549491204?s=20

Tony Schiavone got into the ring and interviewed Matt Hardy. Matt complained about an Orange Cassidy look-a-like in the first row and the commentary team made fat jokes about the guy. Matt attacked him and brought “the fan” into the ring. They cut off his ponytail and began shaving his head. Orange Cassidy finally interrupted and walked down to the ring. Matt Hardy and Jack Evans exited the ring as Cassidy checked on the fan. Hardy held up the man’s hair and taunted Cassidy before leaving with Jack Evans.

Britt Baker & Ruby Soho Had An Awesome Promo

Tony Schiavone interviewed AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker and Ruby Soho tonight on Rampage. Baker told Ruby Soho that she was still trying to figure out who she is and is desperate to try and fit in anywhere. Britt noted that everyone knows who she is and did the D.M.D. chant.

Ruby told Britt that she was wrong and that Soho knows exactly who she is. Soho added that she simply hasn’t had the freedom to prove it. The crowd broke out in a “Ruby Soho!” chant. Ruby told Baker that she was like every other broad she has stepped in ring with “entitled and banging some dude in the back”.

Soho said she is trying figure out if there is anything more. Baker joked that Ruby calls herself “The Runaway” when she didn’t run away from anything, she got fired. Soho told Britt that she wasn’t wrong about that but it turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to her. Ruby added that she is surprised Baker can see anything with her head so far up Tony Khan’s ass. Soho vowed to take the title from Baker at Dynamite Grand Slam.

Baker went for a cheap shot but Ruby was ready and tackled her to the mat. Soho got in some punches before the AEW Women’s Champion retreated out of the ring. Ruby posed with the title as the crowd cheered to end the promo. Britt Baker will defend the AEW Women’s Championship against Ruby Soho at AEW Dynamite Grand Slam next Wednesday night.

Sammy Guevara Confronted Miro After He Retained The TNT Championship

Miro defended the TNT Championship against Fuego Del Sol again. If Miro won, he would retain the title and get Fuego’s car. Fuego got in some offense early and sent the champion out of the ring. Fuego leaped off the apron and connected with a Hurricanrana. Fuego went for a Crossbody but Miro caught him and sent the challenger flying with a Fallaway Slam as Rampage went to a final commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Fuego was in control and went for the Tornado DDT but the TNT Champion blocked it. Miro booted Fuego in the face and beat him down in the corner of the ring. Miro followed it up with a Machka Kick and then another one to the back of the Fuego’s head for the pinfall victory. Miro is still the TNT Champion and won Fuego’s car. After the match, Miro put the keys of the car in Fuego’s mouth and applied the Game Over. Sammy Guevara rushed the ring and hit Miro with a knee to the face. Miro rolled out of the ring as Sammy raised the TNT Championship. Sammy left the TNT Championship on the apron and Miro grabbed. Miro and Sammy had a stare down to end the show.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1439061675496386568?s=20

The New Day vs. The Bloodline Announced For Monday Night Raw

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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0

A massive six-man tag team match has been announced for the Sept. 20 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

On the Sept. 17 episode of SmackDown, newly-minted WWE Champion Big E made a surprise appearance. He and Finn Balor defeated WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos. Backstage after the match, The Usos attacked Big E.

As a result of what transpired on SmackDown, Big E will team with his New Day brethren Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods to take on WWE Universal Champion Reigns and The Usos. The official Twitter account of WWE made the announcement.

WWE SmackDown Results (9/17): Becky Lynch & Bianca Belair, Rollins Addresses Edge

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, TN. In addition to the takeaways below, Finn Balor cut a backstage promo and morphed into The Demon ahead of his Universal Championship match at Extreme Rules.

SmackDown Results (9/17)

  1. Finn Balor & Big E def. The Usos (non-title match)
  2. Rick Boogs def. Robert Roode
  3. Liv Morgan & Toni Storm def. Carmella & Zelina Vega
  4. Sami Zayn def. Dominik Mysterio

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Heyman Claimed Brock Lesnar Had Fear In His Eyes

Universal Champion Roman Reigns came down to the ring with SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos and Paul Heyman. Reigns told the crowd to acknowledge him and told Heyman to properly introduce him.

Heyman said that the Tribal Chief defends his position at the head of the table every single day because Reigns fears no man, no Beast, no Demon, but they all fear Roman Reigns. The crowd booed and Heyman joked that they all know it is true.

Paul noted that Balor obviously fears Roman Reigns because he had to bring out The Demon to challenge for the Universal Championship. Heyman suggested that Brock Lesnar had fear in his eyes last week in Madison Square Garden.

WWE Champion Big E interrupted to a big pop from the crowd. Big E got into the ring as the crowd chanted “you deserve it!”. Finn Balor joined the party and made his way to the ring as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

Big E & Finn Balor Pinned The Champs

The Usos faced Big E & Finn Balor in a non-title match. Big E and Balor controlled the action early and isolated Jey in the corner. The Usos battled back and beat down Finn Balor as SmackDown went to a break.

Big E tagged in and planted Jey with a couple Belly to Belly Suplexes. Jey battled back with a Samoan Drop but Big E responded with a Uranage int he corner. Jimmy got into the ring and Big E greeted him with a Clothesline. Big E followed it up with a Splash on Jimmy and threw him out of the ring.

Jey connected with a Superkick and went for the cover but the WWE Champion kicked out at two. Balor got back into the ring and connected with a Slingblade on Jimmy and followed it up with the Coup de Grace. Big E hit the Big Ending for the pinfall victory.

Reigns Wants To Know If Lesnar Will Show Up At Extreme Rules

Universal Champion Roman Reigns was shown in the back with Paul Heyman. Reigns asked Heyman if he was sure there was nothing that he needed to know. Paul said that he did not know that Lesnar was coming to SummerSlam and that Brock is afraid of Roman Reigns. Heyman stated that Lesnar is dealing with fear for the first time in his life and that is why he created the narrative that he knew he was coming to SummerSlam.

Reigns asked Paul if Lesnar was going to show up at Extreme Rules and Heyman said he wouldn’t. Heyman got nervous and said that he is under the impression that Lesnar would be too afraid to show up at Extreme Rules. Reigns told Heyman that he doesn’t he pay him for that, he pays him to know in advance.

Apollo Crews Wants A Rematch

Rick Boogs faced Robert Roode tonight on SmackDown. Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura and Dolph Ziggler were ringside for the match. Roode booted Boogs in the face and set up for the Glorious DDT but Boogs countered into a Samoan Drop. Boogs followed it up with a Belly to Belly Suplex and a Clothesline. Rick hit the “Boogs Cruise” (Pump Handle Powerslam) for the pinfall victory.

Nakamura, Boogs, and Pat McAfee rocked out by the announce table after the match. Commander Azeez and Apollo Crews showed up and beat Boogs and Nakamura down. Crew then posed in the ring and waited for Azeez to give a microphone. Apollo shouted that King Nakamura has made a mockery of the Intercontinental Championship and demanded a rematch.

Happy Corbin Attacked Kevin Owens

Kevin Owens faced Happy Corbin tonight on SmackDown. Corbin attacked Owens during his entrance and beat him down. Corbin slammed Owens on the ring apron and put his top hat back on.

Rollins Wants Another Match With Edge

Seth Rollins made his way to the ring in a shiny silver suit. Rollins spoke about injuring Edge last week and a loud “you look stupid!”. Seth compared it to the crunch after stepping on a cockroach and rolled footage from his victory over Edge last week in MSG.

Rollins asked the crowd “what did you think was going to happen?” and said it was one of the greatest wins of his career. Seth complained that he didn’t get to enjoy his victory because of people thinking he went too far, including his own employer. Seth noted that he used a legal move in a match and won it the same way he was won matches for years.

Seth claimed that Edge went too far because he is now a family man but still took that risk and got in the ring with him. Rollins blamed the crowd and everyone watching at home for encouraging Edge to come back. Seth noted how Edge’s wife Beth Phoenix said he was at home recuperating. Rollins looked into the camera and spoke directly to Edge. Seth wondered if Edge was physically & emotionally capable of getting back into the ring. Rollins suggested that Edge had fear in his eyes while being loaded onto a stretcher. Seth said he wanted another match with Edge to finish him once and for all.

The Usos Attacked Big E

Kayla Braxton stopped Paul Heyman again and he flipped out. Heyman claimed that Kayla was flirting with him and demanded to be left alone. Heyman turned around and WWE Champion Big E was there. Big E chuckled and Heyman congratulated him on becoming champion. Heyman added that Big E made a smart move because he would have failed if he cashed in on Reigns.

Big E told Heyman that he will see his boy Reigns at Survivor Series, or maybe it will be Brock Lesnar, or maybe it will be The Demon because they overlooked him. The Usos attacked Big E from behind and Heyman walked away. The Usos beat Big E down and shouted that he was on the wrong show. It was later announced that Reigns & The Usos will face New Day in a 6-man tag match on RAW.

Liv Morgan & Toni Storm def. Carmella & Vega

Zelina Vega & Carmella faced Toni Storm & Liv Morgan. Zelina and Carmella beat Toni Storm down until she battled back with a slam. Liv tagged in and Carmella sent her to the corner. Liv escaped and booted Carmella face first into the turnbuckle. Carmella rolled out of the ring and held her face. She claimed her nose was broken and left with Zelina Vega to end the match via contour. Liv Morgan then challenged Carmella to a match at Extreme Rules. Vega told Deville & Pearce that Liv would have to go through her first at Extreme Rules.

Naomi Confronted Sonya Deville Again

Naomi once again confronted Sonya Deville backstage and demanded a match. Sonya brushed her off again and Naomi pointed out how she is way more accomplished than Sonya Deville in WWE. Naomi got in Sonya’s face and said that she will get her match one way or another.

Sami def. Dominik

Dominik faced Sami Zayn tonight on SmackDown. Rey Mysterio was on commentary for the match. Sami controlled the action early and got out of the ring to taunt Rey. Dominik capitalized with a Moonsault outside the ring as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Sami went for a Blue Thunder Bomb but Dominik beautifully countered into a Hurricanrana for a near fall. Zayn rolled up Dominik for the pinfall victory as Rey looked disappointed outside the ring. Zayn told Rey that Dominik isn’t on his level after the match.

Becky Lynch Ruined Bianca Belair‘s Homecoming

Kane made his way to the ring for Bianca Belair’s homecoming segment. Bianca Belair came to the ring to a great reaction from her hometown. Belair said Knoxville made her who she was today and her daddy taught her to finish it if somebody starts something with her. Kane presented Belair with a gigantic key to the city and she held it up. Belair thanked the crowd and started singing “Rocky Top” with them.

SmackDown Women’s Champion Becky Lynch interrupted and mocked everyone singing. Lynch said Belair isn’t the real champion, but is Knoxville’s champion. Becky stated that SummerSlam was her night, Extreme Rules will be her night, but tonight is Bianca Belair’s night. Becky claimed that she came to shake Belair’s hand and congratulate her. Belair held on as Becky tried to walk away. Becky still managed to get the upper hand and hit a “Man-Handle Slam” (Uranage). Lynch left the ring as Bianca sold the move to end the show.

Backstage News On Why Several WWE NXT Contracts Are Expiring This Year

Andrew Ravens
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There have been a few contracts that have already expired or will expire this year for some WWE NXT stars. 

Fightful Select reports several of the top NXT talents were offered deals to re-sign in the Fall of 2019. However, they decided to turn them down due to the amount being offered as it was “nowhere near” what the Raw and SmackDown talent were being offered at the time.

Thus, there was not much incentive for wrestlers to re-sign for the rates being offered for a long-term deal. This would explain why so many deals were up this year. 

Johnny Gargano, whose deal expires in December, is one of the NXT talents that was offered a new contract in the Fall of 2019 around the time when NXT moved to the USA Network in order to go head-to-head with AEW Dynamite. 

At the time, WWE was trying to re-sign any and all wrestlers that they could in order to prevent them from going to the rival promotion. 

Adam Cole, whose deal expired in July, but signed a contract extension to get through August to finish up his storyline with Kyle O’Reilly only to leave to join AEW, was another person who passed on what was offered to him in 2019. There are other names that weren’t being used on TV but still passed on new contract offers.

In the cases of Cole and Gargano, if they did sign new deals in 2019 then they would be under contract at least until 2022 or longer. Pete Dunne recently signed a new deal with WWE.

Tommy Dreamer Suspended By Impact Following ‘Dark Side Of The Ring’ Appearance

Chris Stephens
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Tommy Dreamer has been suspended by Impact Wrestling “effective immediately” following his appearance on this week’s Dark Side of the Ring episode about the Plane Ride from Hell. Dreamer’s defense of Ric Flair’s behavior on the infamous plane ride has drawn backlash online.

https://twitter.com/BasilCabana/status/1438680426579644424

PWInsider reports that Ed Nordholm of Anthem Sports and Entertainment sent an email to the Impact roster today addressing the matter. Nordholm called Dreamer’s comments “out of line with our core values.”

Impact confirmed news of Dreamer’s suspension:

“We are aware of Mr Laughlin’s (Tommy Dreamer) comments on “Dark Side of the Ring”. The views expressed by him in the interview are completely unacceptable. We can confirm Mr Laughlin was suspended this morning with immediate effect, pending further action”.

In addition to periodically wrestling on the show, Dreamer was a member of Impact’s creative team. As of the spring, Impact’s creative team reportedly consisted of Scott D’Amore, Tommy Dreamer, RD Evans and Jimmy Jacobs.

Impact is in Nashville currently for tapings at the Skyway Studios. Dreamer was reportedly in Nashville but was asked to leave by Nordholm. On Saturday, Impact will present Victory Road on the Impact Plus App. Christian Cage vs Ace Austin will headline the show.

Edge Expected To Be Off WWE TV For Several Months

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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We now know what’s going on with Edge after he was last seen carried out on a stretcher.

Edge competed with Seth Rollins in a rematch during the Sept. 10 edition of WWE SmackDown. The action was held inside Madison Square Garden in New York City. The match ended when Rollins nailed Edge with The Stomp for the victory. Part of the storyline was that if Rollins could land The Stomp on the surgically repaired neck of Edge, it could end “The Rated R Superstar’s” career.

To update Edge’s status, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports the Rated R Superstar will be off WWE television for the next several months.

Edge On His Current Role in WWE

Edge doesn’t work a full-time schedule. Despite working a limited number of dates per year, he told CBS Sports earlier this year that his comeback wasn’t going to end up being a “greatest hits tour.”

“That’s not why I came back. I didn’t just want to do regurgitated greatest hits. I wanted to come back because I wanted to tell compelling stories. I wanted to get in with a lot of talent so that … if I could impart wisdom from 29 years of doing this, in terms of trying to tell a story, that’s really exciting for me. I love so much of this talent, and it’s exciting to be able to get in with them.”

Edge competed in the main event of WrestleMania back in April. At this late stage in his career, he puts his best effort forward and likes to think it pays off.

Many agree that Edge has gone above and beyond when compared to some of WWE’s other part-time talent. His matches with Rollins at SummerSlam and on the recent SmackDown show have been praised. Time will tell when the former multiple-time world champion will return.

GCW: Highest In The Room Preview, Order Here

Michael Reichlin
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Game Changer Wrestling is back tonight, Friday, September 17th.

GCW presents Highest in the Room live from Los Angeles, California at Ukrainian Cultural Center. This pay-per-view event can be purchased now at FITE ($13.99).

Highest in the Room features the unfinished business of Alex Colon and G-Raver. They will face off to settle what could’ve been at TOS4. Also in the lineup:

  • Minoru Suzuki vs Jonathan Gresham
  • Ron Funches vs Tony Deppen
  • Chris Dickinson vs Jacob Fatu
  • Effy vs 2 Cold Scorpio
  • Atticus Cogar vs Ninja Mack
  • Alex Zayne vs Jordan Oliver
  • Second Gear Crew vs Starboy Charlie & Nick Wayne & Riley

Plus more to be announced. Order GCW: Highest In The Room now from FITE:

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MLW Fightland To Air On Vice TV (10/7) After Dark Side of the Ring

Chris Stephens
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MLW Fightland will take place October 2nd from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena. On October 7th, the event will air as a 1-hour special at 10 PM following a new episode of Dark Side of the Ring that will air at 9 PM.

“’MLW Fightland’ on Vice TV blows up the tired, old wrestling format. Everyone has played it safe in presenting wrestling the same way for 25 years,” Court Bauer said to theWrap. “‘MLW Fightland’ offers viewers a transparent, unfiltered all access look into the smoke-filled arenas of wrestling. We will present big fights and big stories with investigative reports giving viewers a raw, inside look at the very real world of wrestling.”

MLW Fightland Lineup

MLW Fightland will feature the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the 3rd ever Opera Cup tournament. While brackets for the tournament have yet to be released, the 8 wrestlers who will take part in the single elimination tournament are Tom Lawlor, Bobby Fish, Lee Moriarty Davey Richards, TJP, Matt Cross, and Calvin Tankman.

  • MLW Heavyweight Championship
    Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Alex Hammerstone
  • MLW Middleweight Championship
    Myron Reed (c) vs. Tajiri vs. Aramis vs. Arez
  • Nicole Savoy vs. Holidead.
  • Opera Cup Quarter-Finals
  • Opera Cup Semi-Finals

MLW will also present the first episode of the Fusion: Alpha series on September 22nd.

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1438827575195811843
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