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Tony Khan Compares AEW And WWE’s Pandemic Strategies

Anutosh Bajpai
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Vince McMahon and Tony Khan had very different strategies when it came to running wrestling shows during the lockdown era of COVID-19 pandemic.

While WWE decided to run shows in a completely empty arena, AEW came up with the idea to use the wrestlers they had as an audience. Many people thought that this created a big difference in the presentations of both the shows. Fans watching the show at home felt more connected to the AEW product because of this.

The AEW President recently had an interview with Vegas Film Critic Jeffrey K. Howard to promote Dynamite’s move to TBS. During the talk, Khan was asked about AEW’s strategy during the pandemic, and he compared it to WWE:

“The first week, I came up with the idea of putting the wrestlers who weren’t in the matches, every wrestler I could get around the ring, to create an audience, and people enjoyed it. It was very different than watching the alternative. Our competitor was running empty arena shows. I stayed with that at first and kept the wrestlers at ringside through the pandemic for several months.

We stayed on the air through the pandemic. [We] debuted some stars including the late great Mr. Brodie Lee and Matt Hardy, in the pandemic. We’re able to keep fans interested. Frankly, I told people, this is voluntary. You don’t have to come to the wrestlers [stand]. So, we had a small crew and I built around that crew.”

Tony Khan On WWE’s Thunderdome

Tony Khan
Tony Khan

AEW was also the first company to welcome fans back into the arena. They created pods allowing families or groups of friends to attend the shows safely while keeping their distance from other fans. Tony Khan mentioned how WWE on the other hand, came up with the concept of the Thunderdome:

“Then people started to come back as we got deeper into the pandemic. Our competition through the pandemic, a few months later, they went to a fan wall. [It was a] virtual wall of fans like you saw in other sports, you know, TV screens. And I thought, let’s bring wrestling back with live fans safely. We did it.

We had no COVID transmissions by going into an outdoor amphitheater and spacing people out where a family or group of friends could sit in what we called a pod. [I thought] it would be like a drive-in movie. You had your own section of seats in this case. There’s no one near you, you’re outdoors, and it was great. It brought the fans back to pro wrestling. There was months and months where that was the only place you could watch pro wrestling anywhere in the world where the fans were cheering the matches.”

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

Tony Khan On His Favorite Memory Of Brodie Lee

How Aubrey Edwards Got Hooked To Wrestling Because Of CM Punk

Anutosh Bajpai
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CM Punk’s 434 days run as the WWE champion and his infamous pipe bomb promo got a lot of people invested and reinvested into wrestling. As it turns out, AEW referee Aubrey Edwards is one of the personalities who got hooked to the sport thanks to the Straight Edge Star.

The female star was recently interviewed by Forbs for their YouTube series. During the talk, the 34-year-old revealed that she wasn’t a fan of wrestling from her childhood. She watched her first wrestling show at the age of 23:

“Most people end up watching wrestling as a kid and that’s not something I did. My dad said it was stupid and that it’s fake and you shouldn’t watch it.” revealed Aubrey Edwards, “But I first watched wrestling, WrestleMania 27. Couple friends of mine had a party and I literally have no idea what’s going on. [I was like] ‘this is okay, I guess.’

That was the moment that got my husband back into it. He was a fan when he was younger. So, he started watching it and one day I come home from work and he says, ‘Hey, you got to watch this thing that happened.’ It was June about 10 years ago where CM punk does his famous pipe bomb promo. From that moment, I was hooked.”

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

Watch: Walter Renamed As Gunther On NXT

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE has apparently renamed former NXT UK champion Walter to Gunther which is also the name of a Nazi commander.

The news of WWE trademarking the name Gunther Stark made some headlines yesterday after the revealation that it was also the name of a German U-boat Commander during World War II.

Fans had been speculating which star could be given the name since then. It was revealed during this week’s NXT that Walter is the one being renamed.

The Austrian star faced Roderick Strong in a one-on-one match in the main event of the development show this week. The former NXT UK star won this match after delivering a big powerbomb for the pin.

As he was being announced the winner of the fight, Walter snatched the mic. He said that the winner of the match was Gunther.

The duo of Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner then rushed to the ring to attack Strong. The Creed Brothers came in to help the Diamond Mine leader and the show went off air with all 6 stars brawling in the ring.

The earlier revelation had received a lot of negative reactions. Though the use of the name on NXT is proof that the officials have decided not to back down.

Reactions to WALTER being renamed Gunther

Former WWE Star Announced For GCW Debut

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former WWE star Mascara Dorada better known to WWE fans as Lucha House Party’s Gran Metalik has been announced for his GCW debut next month.

The promotion confirmed the former WWE star’s debut for their upcoming show from Houston on February 4 on Twitter.

They also announced him for a couple of other shows on February 19 from Atlantic City and February 26 from Los Angeles. Though as seen below, the company didn’t reveal his opponent for any of the events:

After competing for promotions such as CMLL and NJPW, Gran Metalik was brought in for the Cruiserweight Classic tournament in 2016. He made it to the finals before losing to TJ Perkins.

The high-flying star was one of the first names to be signed for the cruiserweight division. He later joined the Lucha House Party stable.

Though Metalik wasn’t given much to do during his stint with the promotion. After being unhappy with his position within the company for a while, the luchador asked for his release in September last year.

Gran Metalik was released from his contract in November. He is still under the non-compete clause and the announced GCW dates are going to be his first post WWE appearances.

Jon Moxley Returning at THE WRLD ON GCW on Jan. 23

DDP Believes Chris Jericho Is Modern Day Ric Flair

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Chris Jericho is generally considered to be one of the greatest pro wrestlers of all time. DDP has now offered him a compliment which is rare in the industry.

The former WCW champion recently had an interview with DAZN. He was promoting his new podcast with Jake Roberts. The wrestling veteran discussed many things.

During the interview, DDP revealed that Chris Jericho’s Judas theme song was filmed in his Yoga Center. He then called Y2J the Ric Flair of the current era:

“To me, Chris Jericho is the most over guy in professional wrestling. He’s Ric Flair. He’s Ric Flair now. He’s got 30 years, he’s still on top, he continues to reinvent himself, and he can still work ass off.”

DDP was also asked whether he prefers the WWE product or the AEW product and the Hall Of Famer said that he has got to give AEW the ’60/40 (percent) thing.’

The former WCW star claimed that AEW is the cool thing on the top right now. He explained that the biggest thing he loves about AEW is the fan reaction and Page said that he would have not wrestled for AEW if there were no fans in the arena.

DDP On His Love For Darby Allin: “He’s a Bigger Risk-Taker Than Jeff Hardy”

WWE NXT 2.0 Results (1/18): WALTER vs. Strong, Memorial Service

Andrew Ravens
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The January 18, 2022 episode of WWE NXT 2.0 aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

WWE NXT Results 

  •  
  • Grayson Waller defeated Dexter Lumis
  • The Creed Brothers defeated Briggs and Jensen to advance to the semi-finals of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. 
  • Dante Chen vs. Guru Raj ended in an apparent no-contest.
  • Ivy Nile defeated Kay Lee Ray
  • Malik Blade and Edris Enofe defeated Legado Del Fantasma 
  • Dakota Kai defeated Yulisa Leon 
  • WALTER defeated Roderick Strong

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

LA Knight Opens

pjimage 2022 01 18T192646.164

LA Knight came out to the ring while looking for Grayson Waller, who attacked him a few weeks ago. Knight returned last week after Waller had lost to AJ Styles in the headliner. 

LA said week after week the fans chant that Waller sucks, but one sound haunts him and that’s LA Knight. LA called him out and so came Waller, who acted like he was going to fight him, but didn’t. Instead, Waller revealed that he has a restraining order against him and Knight can’t get closer than 50 feet from him. Knight said that Waller doesn’t have an order against Dexter Lumis, who came out from under the ring. Knight told Waller that he can either face Knight or Lumis. 

This set up Lumis vs. Waller. The finish saw Saurav come out to attack Lumis that led to Waller hitting his finisher for the win. 

Dusty Rhodes Classic Match

pjimage 2022 01 18T182843.078

Legado Del Fantasma vs. Malik Blae & Edris Enofe in a Dusty Rhodes Classic tournament first-round match took place with the winners of this bout taking on the winners of MSK-Jacket Time. 

There was some outside inference by Santos Escobar, who was taken out by Bron Breakker. Earlier in the night, Santos said he was coming after Bron. The finish was a roll up. 

Dusty Rhodes Classic Match

pjimage 2022 01 18T182850.231

The Diamond Mine’s Julius & Brutus Creed vs. Josh Briggs & Brooks Jensen in a Dusty Rhodes Classic tournament first-round match took place with the winners of this bout taking on Grizzled Young Veterans-Chase & Hayward. 

They went all out in this match with it looking like Josh and Brooks were about to go over until The Creed Brothers hit their finisher on Briggs. 

Memorial Service

Tony D’Angelo hosted a memorial service for Pete Dunne. D’Angelo defeated Dunne in a Crowbar On A Pole match last Tuesday night. 

WALTER is now stateside after having his NXT UK farewell match when he defeated Nathan Frazer on the NXT UK episode that aired last Thursday.

Tony was in the ring with a casket and said it’s time to move onto better things. He said it’s time for him to get some gold and he has his eyes set on the North American Title. Carmelo Hayes came out with Trick Williams. Williams said they thought they were boyz. Tony said he’s already got boyz and it’s nothing personal, but just business. Williams said his boyz look like Vic Joseph.

Hayes said he promises Tony will have his own service and it will be a closed casket. Cameron Grimes came out and said Tony will have to wait at the end of the line. Hayes threw out the idea of Tony vs. Grimes and he would get the winner. Grimes smashed a big photo of Pete Dunne over the head of Tony to end the segment. 

Main Event

0NXT 1

WALTER vs. Roderick Strong was saved for the headliner. 

WALTER vs. Roderick Strong was saved for the headliner. 

Last week, WWE set this with a video of Bivens talking about how The Creed Brothers will win the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic before beating Imperium’s Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner for the NXT Tag Team Titles. To take things even further, Biven called the champs “a bunch of b**ches.” This didn’t sit well with WALTER so he confronted Bivens and Strong stepped in before telling him that he is the only NXT star not afraid of him. As a result, we got a match. 

The bout was hard-hitting with WALTER getting the majority of the offense. WALTER with back-to-back powerbombs for the win. Post-match, Imperium beatdown Strong until the creed Brothers came out for a brawl to close the show. 

Sheamus Isn’t A Fan Of WWE Announcing Royal Rumble Surprises In Advance

Andrew Ravens
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Sheamus is currently one of 15 competitors that have been announced thus far for the men’s Royal Rumble match. As for the women’s bout, 21 competitors have been announced. 

Both matches will feature active wrestlers, legends, and returning stars. For the women’s match, WWE announced several returning stars in advance instead of them being surprises. 

This is something the longtime WWE star isn’t a fan of and talked about it during an interview with Louis Dangoor of GiveMeSport.

“I know this year, they’ve announced a lot of contestants for the women’s Royal Rumble. I like the fact that they just show up. I’m not a huge fan of telling people who is going to be in there. I think the men’s one is a bit more secretive. They’ve announced like ten people who are on the active roster. On the women’s side, there are a lot of girls coming back. It shows how much they’ve missed the product and missed being in the ring.”

Sheamus also gave some insight into the information the wrestlers know going into the match. 

“We all know our numbers and when we’re going out. I’m not going to spoil the match for anybody. What we do is entertainment, I don’t like taking that away or pulling back the curtain. All I’ll say is, we know what our numbers are and what we have to do in there. Everyone knows their number, but they won’t find what number they are pretty much until two or three hours before the show. There has been a couple that have been really close on where we’re at coming out to the ring. That can be a little stressful, especially if you’re new. Now, I’ve been there 12 years, it doesn’t bother me at all.”

This year will mark the ninth time he has competed in the event. It will also be the ten-year anniversary of Sheamus’ Royal Rumble victory as he won the 2012 Royal Rumble by last eliminating Chris Jericho.

Don West Provides Health Update About his Brain Lymphoma

Tyriece Simon
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Former TNA Wrestling Commentator Don West has given wrestling fans a health update.

On June 15, 2021, West shared that doctors diagnosed him with brain lymphoma. The professional wrestling community supported West and his family by donating to GoFundMe. Today, his GoFuneMe has reached $24,750, and fans can still help West reach his goal of $40,000 to help him with his costly treatment.

West announced on Twitter that his cancer had gone into remission on September 4, 2021. However, West and his wife Terri West gave a health update sharing that the brain tumors have returned. While unfortunate, he and his wife stated that they would stay positive, and West will continue fighting to overcome his condition.

“This is Don, and I wanted to share a health update and a couple next steps with you. After undergoing chemo and radiation treatments, my recovery was on track with a clean bill of health after three months. Unfortunately, I began having symptoms, and the brain tumors have returned. I have now started my second round of chemotherapy with more aggressive and arduous treatments to follow. While this is a setback, Terri and I are staying positive and fighting the good fight! God has blessed us in ways too numerous to list, including your past financial generosity and your many notes and messages of support. It has meant the world to us. I will continue to provide updates, and again, thank you for investing in our future,” wrote West on GoFuneMe.

SEScoops sends our love and support to West and his family.

Former Top Executive Reflects on His 9 Years With WWE

Tyriece Simon
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Former WWE Executive Canyon Ceman has shared his farewell post to the company. Ceman worked with the WWE from 2012 to 2021.

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that the WWE released Ceman on July 23, 2021. The company has released talent over the year due to budget cuts. However, it’s unclear if the former executive release is related to WWE’s budget issues. The timing of Ceman’s departure also happened around the time of WWE’s contract issue with Adam Cole. Wrestling Inc’s Marc Middleton shared that timing of Cole’s contract dispute “Very much lines up with the timing of Ceman’s departure.” Although, the WWE hasn’t confirmed Middleton’s statement.

Regardless, Ceman seems grateful for his time in WWE and shared his appreciation in the farewell post on Linkedin.

“In the spirit of 2022, and a new chapter about to begin, I want to say thank you and a final LinkedIn goodbye to my past chapter at WWE am grateful to WWE for an adventurous 9.5 year run as a leader in talent development,” wrote Ceman.

Canyon Ceman Reflects on Accomplishments

In his post, Ceman detailed his proud accomplishments during his WWE tenure. He shared that he helped scout talent in China, Japan, and Mexico. Ceman also mentioned he played a role in the “Women Empowerment Movement” in the WWE. The former executive brought up talents Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley as people he helped.

“I am most proud of the efforts we made towards professionalization and globalization of athlete acquisition and development, India, Dubai, Japan, China, Saudi, Mexico, Australia, Chile, Germany,” said Ceman. He continued, “…Our role in the Women’s empowerment movement in WWE, from Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch to Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair, so proud of Sara Amato and all we accomplished. The culture of respect and empowerment we built at the WWE PC, as we launched and grew NXT and NXT UK, and of the superstars launched and stories created through all of these projects.”

Ceman also thanked his former co-workers like Triple H, Matt Bloom, and William Regal. He ended the farewell post by saying that an announcement was coming soon. It’s unclear if Ceman still wants to work in the professional wrestling business.

WWE Interested In Signing Rok-C

Andrew Ravens
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WWE is looking to restock their roster after a series of releases with those who took part in recent tryouts. Several people participated in the latest tryouts including names like Monster Factory project Notorious Mimi and former ROH Women’s Champion Rok-C. 

Although in the past, WWE has passed on signing talent that they deem too young, it appears there could be an exception. Per Fightful, there was a significant push within the company to have Rok-C signed.

Even before she had the tryout, some people thought the company should make her an offer. 

The latest tryouts were so big that WWE  bussed the tryout competitors in and gave Performance Center trainees several days off.

One source at the Performance Center noted that Rok-C’s main event match with Deonna Purrazzo in Impact Wrestling was evidence of the hiring being a “no-brainer.” However, this same person mentioned that they thought Wheeler Yuta was also a no-brainer last year, and he didn’t get hired.

Rok-C is slated to debut for MLW at Blood & Thunder on January 21st from Dallas, Texas.  As previously reported by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, ROH doesn’t expect for her to be back when they resume shows in April after going on hiatus.

Jon Moxley Returns To AEW Dynamite This Week

Michael Reichlin
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Jon Moxley will return on Wednesday’s edition of AEW Dynamite on live TBS. It will be his first televised appearance in nearly 3 months.

Moxley stepped away from the spotlight in November. At the time, AEW boss Tony Khan announced that Mox would be entering an inpatient program for alcohol dependency.

“Jon Moxley has allowed me to share with you that he is entering an inpatient alcohol treatment program.  Jon is a beloved member of the AEW family. We all stand with him and Renee, and all of his family and friends, as he shifts his focus to recovery.”

“Jon is making a very brave choice to get help, and we’re embracing his choice and supporting him however we can.”

Following his appearance on Dynamite, Moxley returns to the ring this weekend for Game Changer Wrestling. Moxley will defend the GCW championship against Homicide at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.

Moxley is not the only big return scheduled for Dynamite. “Free Agent” Cody Rhodes will also be on hand after taking several weeks off due to covid exposure.

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WWE Raw To Air on Syfy Channel For 2 Weeks Next Month

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Monday Night Raw will air on the Syfy channel for two consecutive weeks next month.

Longtime WWE fans remember Raw being pre-empted each year by the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This was a regular occurrence until 2017.

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This year, the USA Network’s coverage of the 2022 Olympic Winter Games is to blame. WWE Raw will air on the Syfy on:

  • Monday February 7
  • Monday, February 13

For the two weeks that Raw moves to Syfy, the USA Network will air Men’s Figure Skating and Freestyle Skiing.

H/T: Pwinsider

Briscoes Talk Possible Move to WWE: “I think we could survive and thrive”

Tyriece Simon
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The Briscoes believe they could make WWE money if they were to sign with the company.

The Briscoes appeared on Busted Open with Bully Ray and Dave Legraca to discuss their free agency. Ring of Honor released the team after changing their business model to not signing talent exclusively. Ray asked the Briscoes if they thought they could flourish in the WWE and if they considered signing with the company. Both Mark and Jay Briscoe responded that they believed they could succeed with the company.

“…I think we’ll definitely survive. At the end of the day, you know you have to get in the ring and ring the bell,” said Jay.

Mark chimed in and felt that The Briscoes would be a great asset to the WWE. “I think we would survive and thrive because Vince McMahon likes money and shoot if we go out there between them ropes, that what we do. We are going to make your company money,” said Mark. He continued, “I think that’s the bottom line, not trying to sound cocky or anything.” Jay also feels that the tag team is confident in their abilities and performing at their best today.

The WWE hasn’t revealed any interest at the moment to sign The Briscoes.

https://twitter.com/jaybriscoe84/status/1481063084559110147

The Briscoes Want FTR

After becoming free agents, the Briscoes didn’t waste any time making their presence felt. The tag team has called out All Elite Wrestling tag team FTR for a match in AEW. While the company hasn’t spotlighted the feud on AEW television, both teams have sent messages towards each other on social media.

It’s unclear if AEW will sign the Briscoes or have them challenge FTR. However, both teams are alluding to a future matchup. The Briscoes will also defend their Game Changer Wrestling Tag Team Championship at The WRLD on GCW. Their opponents for the event are unknown. Although GCW hasn’t stated this, it’s a possibility that FTR could be the challengers.

Summer Rae Reveals When She Was Contacted For Royal Rumble Return

Anutosh Bajpai
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One of the most surprising names WWE announced for the upcoming Royal Rumble PPV is Summer Rae. She will be returning to the company after more than 4 years. The female star recently appeared on Oral Sessions With Renee Paquette. Among other things she detailed how her deal for this comeback came about.

Rae revealed that it was WWE referee and Senior Manager of Talent Relations John Cone who called her about the potential return in December:

“I’m packing for Abu Dhabi and 9 at night and I see Cone’s name on my phone, and I went, ‘Whaaaat.’ You just know. I picked up the phone and went, ‘What do you want? It’s been four and a half years.’ ‘Well, we have you on our list of potential girls and wanted to get your interest.'”

Though the first call wasn’t a confirmation of her return. According to Summer Rae, she was initially told that it will be a while before they gave her an answer:

“They were like, ‘you probably won’t find out until the New Year.’ Five days later he called me and was like, ‘Merry Christmas. We have an answer with you, it’s yes.'”

Summer Rae also admitted that it ‘stinks’ that WWE announced her return in advance. She mentioned that it was Vince McMahon’s idea to announce the entrances. The former Total Divas star was part of the WWE roster from 2011 to 2017. She was officially released from her contract in October 2017.

Natalya & Summer Rae Trade Shots Regarding The Royal Rumble

Thanks to Fightful for the transcribed quotes

WWE Lawyer Jerry McDevitt Says He’s Looking To Retire

Chris Stephens
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Longtime WWE lawyer Jerry McDevitt recently spoke to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette and said that he is looking to retire. The 72-year-old has represented Vince McMahon and the WWE for about 35 years.

McDevitt with WWE began when he represented Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart in 1987. Neidhart had been arrested after a dispute with an airline attendant but McDevitt not only beat the charges but managed to successfully sue the airline on Neidhart’s behalf. Neidhart was awarded $200,000. From then on, McDevitt became the go-to attorney for WWE.

McDevitt has represented WWE in many high-profile legal cases, including Vince McMahon’s triumphant victory in the United States v. McMahon case over alleged steroid distribution (1994).

Jerry McDevitt: “I’m Headed Into Retirement”

McDevitt says he does have other clients, but considers WWE to be a ‘major’ client. Now into his 70’s, he’s looking to slow down. However, his long friendship with Vince McMahon has kept going.

“I’ll be 72 in January, so I’ve been trying to turn it down a little bit as I’m headed into retirement. But because of my longstanding relationship with WWE, I continue to represent them, although I keep telling Vince I do want to retire.”

McDevitt has always worked personally with Vince McMahon and he doesn’t expect that to change.

“My contact and my relationship is directly with and to Vince,” he said. “It always has been. It always will be. That’s kind of a unique relationship in the landscape of the law these days for the outside counsel to have that sort of direct relationship.”

Adam Scherr (Braun Strowman) Booked for ‘Biggest Wrestling Show in the Middle East’

Chris Stephens
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Adam Scherr (former WWE Superstar Braun Strowman) has been booked for an event in the United Arab Emirates that is being dubbed the “Biggest Wrestling Show in the Middle East.”

Scherr will team with EC3 on the card, according to their management team (via CBS Sports).

The show will take place March 7th, 2022 and be promoted by the United Wrestling Nation United Arab Emirates. It will take place just weeks after WWE presents “The Elimination Chamber” from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on February 19th, 2022.

Scherr previously won the “Greatest Royal Rumble” in Saudia Arabia in 2018.

The promotion has booked several other big names for the show as well. Talent also booked for upcoming UWNUAE including Gangrel, Kamille, the Bollywood Boyz, and the Great Khali.

https://twitter.com/uwnuae/status/1481898888806092800

Recently on social media, Strowman responded to a fan asking when he plans to return to the ring.

“I’ve got a lot of really, really cool stuff in the works,” Strowman responded. “I’m really excited to share with everyone, just gotta wait a little bit longer. It’s coming. You’ll see.”

In WWE, Strowman is a former Universal Champion, Money in the Bank Winner, 2018 Superstar of the Year award winner, Intercontinental Champion, and Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal winner. He is also a 2x holder of the RAW tag team championships.

Rhea Ripley Plans to Obliterate & Brutalize At the Royal Rumble

Michael Reichlin
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Rhea Ripley is ready to steamroll all challengers at next weekend’s WWE Royal Rumble.

Ripley’s back is full of welts following this week’s WWE Raw. The Australian Superstar took a beating at the hands of her former friend and partner, Nikki ASH.

Ripley posted a photo of her battle scars early Monday morning. She defiantly wrote, “It’s hard to break someone that enjoys pain. Try again.”

On Raw Talk, Ripley questioned if her broken friendship with Nikki ASH is salvageable.

“I can only take so much.”

– Rhea Ripley

Ripley then touted her career accomplishments. She plans to enter the 2022 Royal Rumble and obliterate and brutalize anybody that gets in her way.

https://twitter.com/time_novelist/status/1483295475449139201

Eddie Kingston Out With Fractured Orbital Bone

Michael Reichlin
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AEW star Eddie Kingston will be out of action for the next several weeks due to an injury.

The hard hitting brawler from Yonkers, NY is out with a fractured orbital bone. Common symptoms of an orbital bone fracture include blurry, decreased or double vision.

Tony Khan announced Kingston is injured at Saturday’s AEW Dark tapings from Orlando, FL. Unable to wrestle, Kingston joined the commentary team, which should make for some entertaining viewing.

Eddie Kingston’s Recovery Time

Eddie Kingston is expected to be out of action for around three weeks, according to the Wrestling Observer. A mid-February return would give AEW enough time to weave him back into storylines ahead of Revolution on March 6th.

Kingston has a 2-0 record this year in AEW. He picked up wins in singles and trios matches. His most recent match was a winning effort against Joey Janela on the January 8th episode of AEW Dark .

It will be interesting to see if Eddie Kingston appears at Sunday’s Game Changer Wrestling’s The WRLD on GCW pay-per-view.

Thunder Rosa On If AEW’s Women’s Division Is Getting The Respect It Deserves

Anutosh Bajpai
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AEW’s women’s division has always been a point of criticism for the company. In recent times performers like Britt Baker, Ruby Soho, Serena Debb, and others have helped the division in getting more attention. Though Thunder Rosa believes that it still doesn’t get the respect that they deserve.

The former Lucha Underground star recently had an interview with Throwing Down w/ Renee & Miesha. She was asked if the female competitors are finally getting the respect they deserve, and Rosa replied with both a yes and no:

“Yes and no. I will say that people [are] still talking crap about it. A lot of the women now have been really trying to establish themselves as competitors. As somebody that can go with anybody.” said Thunder Rosa, “Even then I feel like there’s still a lot of criticism towards it. Everybody’s working really hard to make the division better. We’re definitely getting a lot more veterans into our division.

Rosa continued: “So it’s making things a lot easier for a lot of the younger talent to learn from them. And that’s the most important part. The talent is willing and wants to learn from veterans. Because we can say ‘Yeah, we’re good’ and etc, etc. But then when it comes down to throwing those punches and performing, we can underperform too. So we have to be mindful and open on that.”

Thunder Rosa also talked about the veterans that have joined the company in recent times. She revealed which female competitors serve as locker room leaders behind the scene. You can check out her comments at this link.

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

WWE Legend Mick Foley Explains What Makes Thunder Rosa Special

Thunder Rosa On Which Competitors Serve As The Locker Room Leaders Of AEW Women’s Roster

Anutosh Bajpai
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AEW generally has a younger roster compared to WWE. This is especially true for the women’s division which features a number of rising stars under the age of 25. Though they still have a few women who have been wrestling for a while and have competed for multiple promotions. Thunder Rosa is one such competitor who had worked for promotions such as ROH, Lucha Underground and more prior to joining AEW.

The female star was a guest on the most recent episode of Throwing Down w/ Renee & Miesha. She was asked which are some of the female talents who are locker room leaders of the AEW women’s roster. Responding to it, Rosa mentioned how Allie doesn’t get the credit she derseves despite being a veteran of over 15 years:

“I think a lot of people don’t give a lot of respect or credit to Allie, The Bunny. She’s been in the business for a long, long time. I’ve seen her progression in the last three years. Like this year or 2021, I could see that she was more confident. She’s one of the ones who has a lot more experience on TV. After that street fight, I think she gained more respect in the business.  She’s always very positive in the back and she’s always willing to work.

Serena [Deeb] is another one if you have any questions, she is more than welcome to help you. With transitions or with ideas, or any of that sort.”

Thunder Rosa Praises Vickie Guerrero

Thunder Rosa
Thunder Rosa (Photo: AEW)

Thunder Rosa also mentioned someone who is not a wrestler but has been part of the wrestling world for a long time in Vickie Guerrero. She explained how Guerrero knows a lot about the business. Rosa then discussed how she has been around for a while as well and claimed that she tries to help wherever she can:

“Vickie Guerrero is another one. A lot of people don’t understand. As a manager, She knows a lot about this business. I like sitting with her and talking to her. That’s a lot of fun. And now we have Mercedes Martinez, who [I’ve been] feuding for a while so this is gonna be very interesting.

Every time I am in the ring with her, I learn so much. I love it. She’s really good. I consider myself one of the vets too since I’ve been working for TV for like six years now. So every time I’m there, and if I can offer something on the table or in the ring or whatever, I’m always willing to do that.”

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WWE Legend Mick Foley Explains What Makes Thunder Rosa Special

WWE RAW Results (1/17): Rollins vs. Lashley, Austin Theory & Vince McMahon

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Seth Rollins battled Bobby Lashley tonight in the main event. Austin Theory battled Finn Balor in a rematch from last month. RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch addressed Doudrop ahead of their title match at Royal Rumble.

RAW Results

  1. Doudrop & Becky Lynch def. Liv Morgan & Bianca Belair
  2. Kevin Owens def. Damian Priest (non-title match)
  3. Austin Theory def. Finn Balor
  4. Omos def. Reggie
  5. Street Profits, The Mysterios def. Dirty Dawgs, Commander Azeez, Apollo Crews
  6. Bobby Lashley def. Seth Rollins via DQ

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Doudrop & Becky Lynch Could Not Co-Exist

RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch kicked off the show and noted that we have stars from generations past coming back for the women’s Royal Rumble match. Lynch claimed she makes stars out of people and bragged about getting Doudrop a title match last week. Lynch vowed to beat Doudrop at Royal Rumble before complimenting her tenacity. Becky called Doudrop “doo doo” and said she will never be champion as long as she is still here. Doudrop told Becky that she made the biggest mistake of her life by giving her the win over Bianca Belair. Bianca and Liv then interrupted and it led to a tag match as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Becky Lynch and Doudrop were having difficulties coexisting as tag teammates and argued in the corner. Liv capitalized and knocked Doudrop out of the ring. Becky rolled Liv up and used the ropes for leverage but Morgan kicked out at two. Becky hit the Man Handle Slam and went for the cover. Doudrop broke up her own teammates cover with a Splash. Doudrop dragged Becky to the corner, tagged herself in, and hit Liv with a Crossbody for the pinfall victory.

Kevin Owens Pinned The US Champion

Kevin Owens welcomed Seth Rollins as the guest on the KO Show. Owens told Rollins that he admired him and that Seth was the guy who set the table. Rollins thanked Kevin and went on to brag about how great he is and how he is going to take the Universal Championship from Roman Reigns at Royal Rumble. United States Champion Damian Priest interrupted and made his way to the ring as RAW went to a break.

Kevin Owens battled Damian Priest in a singles match when RAW returned. Damian controlled the action early and Owens rolled out of the ring to regroup. Priest chased him out there and Owens hit a Superkick. Kevin followed it up with a Frog Splash off the ring apron before rolling Damian back in the ring as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Priest sent Owens to the corner and hit a Splash. Owens tried to battle back but Damian leveled him with a Clothesline. Damian perched Owens up the top turnbuckle but Owens knocked him to the canvas. Owens connected with a Senton off the top rope and went for the cover but Damian somehow kicked out at two.

Owens hit the Pop-Up Powerbomb for another near fall. Damian planted Owens with a big Chokeslam and went for the cover but Kevin kicked out at the last moment. Owens grabbed his knee in pain and crawled to the corner. Owens leaned up against the ropes and the referee checked on him. WWE medical staff took a look at him and Damian walked towards Owens. Kevin capitalized and hit Priest with the Stunner for the pinfall victory.

RK-Bro Sent A Message To Alpha Academy

RAW Tag Team Champions Alpha Academy (Chad Gable & Otis) celebrated becoming the RAW Tag Team Champions by having a graduation ceremony. Gable thanked everyone before Riddle interrupted. Riddle was sporting a cap and gown as well and claimed to be invited to the ceremony. Riddle went on to give a speech about how RK-Bro’s lives have changed forever after losing the titles.

Gable told Riddle that they just want a rematch and they will give it to RK-Bro if Riddle can complete an Alpha Academy mental challenge. Otis went after Riddle on the entrance ramp and left Gable alone in the ring. Orton showed up and planted Gable with an RKO out of nowhere. RK-Bro then posed in the corner to end the segment.

Austin Theory def. Finn Balor

Vince McMahon had another conversation with Austin Theory backstage. Theory claimed that beating Finn Balor down after the match was almost like a half victory. McMahon put on his best scowl face and said there is no such thing as a half victory. McMahon claimed that he would break every bone in Theory’s body and send a selfie to Austin’s mother.

Austin Theory then battled Finn Balor in a rematch from last month. Finn controlled the action early and connected with a Slingblade. Austin tried to battle back with a Dropkick but Balor blocked it. Theory connected with a Clothesline and went for the ATL but Finn countered into a roll-up for a near fall. Theory then hit the Dropkick and the ATL for the pinfall victory. Austin took a selfie after the match before attacking Balor some more.

Nikki A.S.H. Attacked Rhea Ripley

Rhea Ripley faced Nikki A.S.H. tonight on RAW. Women’s Tag Team Champions Queen Zelina and Carmella interrupted before the match. Nikki capitalized and attacked Rhea from behind. Nikki sent Rhea out of the ring and into the steel steps. Nikki posed as Rhea got pissed off to end the segment.

Omos Dominated

Reggie faced Omos tonight on RAW. 24/7 Champion Dana Brooke and Akira Tozawa ran into the ring for a distraction and Reggie climbed to the top rope. Reggie went for a Crossbody but Omos countered into a Choke Bomb for the pinfall victory.

Maryse Attacked Beth Phoenix With A Brick

Edge, Beth Phoenix, and Damian Priest were having a conversation backstage. Beth was given a note and Maryse wanted to talk to Beth face to face later tonight. Maryse made her way to the ring to begin the third hour of RAW. Maryse said she didn’t want to be in a match and The Miz didn’t ask her first. Maryse asked Beth to come down to the ring so she can clean up The Miz’s mess and talk “mother to mother”.

Maryse suggested that they be friends and go on play dates together. Maryse added that today’s female superstars were able to main event WrestleMania because of their hard work. The Miz tried to attack Edge from behind but Edge was ready for it. Maryse leveled Beth Phoenix with a handbag. It was later revealed that there was a brick in the bag. Miz and Maryse were interviewed backstage and joked that they made the grit couple look like the sh.. but Maryse cut him off. Miz then announced that there will be a birthday celebration for Maryse next week on RAW.

Street Profits & The Mysterios Picked Up A Win

Street Profits, Dominik & Rey Mysterio faced Robert Roode, Dolph Ziggler, Apollo Crews, and Commander Azeez. Rey went for a Hurricanrana but Roode blocked it. The action spilled out of the ring and the teams started arguing as RAW went to a break.

Dawkins planted Crews with a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Azeez broke it up at two. The Mysterios knocked the Dirty Dawgs to the ropes and hit a couple 619s. Dominik went for a Crossbody but Commander Azeez caught him. Rey took out Azeez with a Senton as Dawkins connected with a Spinebuster on Apollo. Montez tagged in and hit the Frog Splash for the pinfall victory. After the match, The Mysterios threw Street Profits over the top rope in a nod to the Royal Rumble. Rey Mysterio then threw Dominik over the top rope and everyone shared a laugh.

Alexa Bliss Went Back To Therapy

Alexa Bliss’ road back to RAW continued this week. Bliss was back in her therapist’s office and he noted that there are a lot less breakable things in the office this week. He told Alexa that he cannot tolerate a repeat performance from last week. The therapist told Bliss that she is well on the road to recovery though and played a word game. Bliss answered every question with “Lilly” but stopped when the therapist said “imaginary”. Alexa wouldn’t respond with Lilly and the therapist ended the session.

The Usos & Hurt Business Interfered In The Main Event

Bobby Lashley faced Seth “Freakin” Rollins in the main event. MVP was ringside for the match. Lashley leveled Seth with a shoulder tackle and posed in the ring. Rollins battled back with a Slingbade and went for the Pedigree but Lashley countered with a Back Body Drop. Lashley went for the Hurt Lock but Rollins escaped. Seth sent Lashley to the outside and hit a Suicide Dive through the ropes. Rollins went for another one but Lashley countered into a Belly to Belly Suplex on the floor as RAW went to a final commercial break. It was announced that Bobby Lashley and Brock Lesnar will have a weigh in segment next week on RAW.

When RAW returned, Rollins was in control and wrapped Lashley’s knee around the ropes. Rollins hit the knee with a Dropkick and slammed it on the mat several times. Seth locked in a submission hold but Lashley escaped with some punches to the face. Rollins hit a Dragon Screw and then applied a Half Crab in the middle of the ring. Lashley broke the hold and slammed Rollins to the mat. Lashley planted with a Powerslam and went for the cover but couldn’t keep Rollins down. Lashley went for the Spear but Rollins blocked it with a knee to the face. Seth followed it up with the Pedigree for a near fall. Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin attacked Lashley to end the match in a DQ. He beat them both down and delivered a Spear to Shelton through the barricade. The Usos joined the party and hit Rollins with a Superkick to end the show.

Britt Baker Wants To Host Open Challenge For AEW Women’s Title

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Britt Baker knows there’s a slew of free-agent talent out there and she isn’t opposed to issuing an open challenge.

Baker is the reigning AEW Women’s Champion. She’s held the gold since May 2021 when she defeated the longest reigning AEW Women’s Titleholder Hikaru Shida.

Britt Baker’s Open Challenge?

  • Britt Baker
    Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. (Photo: All Elite Wrestling)

Britt Baker was a guest on Barstool Rasslin’ and she said that with all of the female talent available on the market, she’d like to give some of them a crack at her AEW gold.

“I think an open challenge would be really fun. There are a lot of free-agent women right now that I would love to wrestle and I think an open challenge would be great.”

We’ve seen the likes of Toni Storm, Rok-C, and Nixon Newell enter free agency. Time will tell if Baker’s open challenge will ever materialize.

Brushing Off Jade Cargill?

  • Jade Cargill
    TBS Champion Jade Cargill (Photo: AEW)

Jade Cargill has emerged as a dominant force in AEW’s women’s division. She is undefeated in singles competition and recently captured the TBS Championship after winning a tournament.

There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding Jade but Britt doesn’t sound too impressed.

“I’m not concerned with her at all.”

Feud With Kris Statlander Renewed

  • Britt Baker Kris Statlander
    (via AEW)

Britt has found herself once again feuding with Kris Statlander. The two had a highly-praised match at the All Out PPV back in September. During the interview with Barstool, Britt questioned Statlander’s mental capacity.

Britt and Statlander have renewed their beef after the Jan. 12 episode of Dynamite. Statlander got in Adam Cole’s face after he, reDRagon, and The Elite attacked Orange Cassidy. Britt ambushed Statlander and nailed her with the Curb Stomp.

Time will tell if Statlander will make Britt eat her words.

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Jim Ross Explains How He Got A Black Eye Before Traveling To AEW Show

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Jim Ross was ready for a routine trip to an AEW show but ended up having a nasty fall.

Ross was able to make the AEW Battle of the Belts show as scheduled but he took a bad spill as he made his way out the door of his home. As a result, JR has been sporting a black eye.

Jim Ross Talks Bad Fall

On an episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Jim Ross explained how he ended up with the shiner.

“I was leaving for Charlotte Saturday. I had to fly to do that Battle of the Belts and for some reason I just all of a sudden lost my balance. When I lost my balance and I started stumbling and falling I tried to catch myself and went facefirst into the concrete wall.

“So, I got a big knot over here some place and this black eye. It looks ugly. It was here in front of my front door.

“I made my booking and I worked and I came home and I’ve been suffering ever since [laughs]. It wasn’t an accident, I didn’t trip and fall.

“I just lost my balance and all of a sudden my equilibrium was all screwed up and I don’t know what happened. So, I haven’t had a chance to go to the doctor to check it out so that’s where I am on that deal.


“I’ve been at a lot of doctor’s offices in the last several weeks so we’ll see how it works out.”

Ross referenced constantly visiting the doctor due to his skin cancer treatment. JR recently defeated the cancer but he’s described his ankle as being “burnt to a crisp” due to the radiation treatment.

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Effy vs. Jeff Jarrett Added to The WRLD On GCW

Michael Reichlin
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Jeff Jarrett will battle Effy at this weekend’s The WRLD on GCW pay-per-view from New York City’s Hammerstein Ballroom.

GCW announced the match Monday evening:

The WRLD on GCW Card

Jeff Jarrett vs. Effy rounds out an incredible card for GCW’s biggest show ever.

The following matches are signed for The WRLD on GCW. The event is now available for purchase at FITE and streams live Sunday, January 23rd.

  • GCW World Champion Jon Moxley vs. Homicide
  • ROH World ChampionJonathan Gresham vs. Blake Christian
  • GCW Tag Team Championship Open Challenge: Briscoe Brothers vs. ???
  • Team Bandido (Bandido, Laredo Kid & ASF) vs. Team Gringo (Gringo Loco, Arez & Demonic Flamita)
  • Ruby Soho vs. Allie Katch
  • Jeff Jarrett vs. EFFY
  • Matt Cardona (with Chelsea Green) vs. Joey Janela
  • Eddie Kingston vs. AJ Gray
image 100483602 15151043

Britt Baker Wants To Win Dancing With The Stars

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Britt Baker is the latest wrestler to express interest in joining Dancing With The Stars.

Wrestlers are no strangers to Dancing With The Stars. We’ve seen the likes of Chris Jericho, Nikki Bella, and Stacy Keibler try their hand on the show. The most recent wrestler to do so was The Miz on season 30.

For Baker, it isn’t enough to be a dentist and the AEW Women’s Champion. She wants to take the crown as far as celebrity dancing is concerned.

Britt Baker Destined For DWTS?

Appearing on Barstool Rasslin’, Britt Baker expressed her desire to not only compete on the Dancing With the Stars show, but to win it.


“But my favorite talent winning show is absolutely Dancing with the Stars and I’m manifesting my — I’m gonna be on it, yeah.”

Britt said she hasn’t been cast as of now but it’s a goal of hers and one she sees coming to fruition.

“Well, I’m not cast for it yet, but I’m manifesting it. I’m gonna win the Mirrorball Trophy. I’m gonna be the first-ever professional wrestler to be both a champion and a Mirrorball Trophy champion.”

When asked if Britt has prior dance experience or if she’d learn on the fly, the AEW Women’s Champion said it’s a mixed bag.

“I think both. I don’t think anybody really knows ballroom dancing when you go on the show. You like have rhythm or you don’t. And I think you need to get paired with the right partner and you will..”

At this point, Barstool’s Brandon Walker asked Britt if she’d be riding her dance partner’s coattails in case she misses a step or two. Britt said it takes two to tango.

“I mean essentially, it’s give and take because they’re riding your coattails too.”

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