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ROH Women’s Champion Rok-C To Debut For MLW

Chris Stephens
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ROH Women’s World Champion Rok-C is set to make her MLW debut on January 21st, 2022 at Blood and Thunder. The event is an MLW Fusion television taping from Gilley’s in Dallas, Texas. The 20-year-old has been training with Booker T since she was 16.

“Known as “The Prodigy,” the 5’1? featherweight looks to make a statement in her home state of Texas when she steps foot in an MLW ring for the fist-time ever on January 21st,” reads an MLW press release.

Rok-C won a tournament this year in ROH to win the ROH Women’s World Championship. She defeated Miranda Arize in the finals at Death Before Dishonor in September. Footage of her victory is below:

MLW’s Open Door Policy For Free Agents

MLW is touting that Rok-C will be the first to take part in the promotion’s new open-door policy as it concerns free agents. Last month, MLW revealed that a percentage of future events will feature wrestlers currently on the free agent market in addition to wrestlers signed to MLW contracts.

“While the majority of MLW’s roster features contracted competitors, a percentage of each card will now feature free agents, ensuring exciting and unpredictable matchups,” reads an MLW press release. 

More on MLW’s open door policy for free agents is available in the link below:

MLW Announces “Open Door Policy” For Free Agents

John Morrison Responds To Being Referenced On WWE RAW

Chris Stephens
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John Morrison was released from WWE earlier this month and this was referenced last night on WWE Raw. Morrison’s former partner, The Miz, returned and was involved in a talking segment with Edge. During this interaction, Edge referenced that Miz had gone to perform on Dancing With The Stars and left his partner to get fired.

“You use this to get notoriety for your next endeavor, for your next reality show, for your next dance competition while you leave your partners high and dry to get fired,” Edge said to Miz.

Morrison issued the following response to this segment on social media.

Edge also referenced Miz getting mentioned on AEW Dynamite last week. CM Punk referred to MJF as a “less famous version of The Miz” on the show.

“You have people on other shows saying your name just to get a cheap reaction. You live rent-free in a lot of heads,” Edge said to Miz.

There was another reference to released WWE talent on RAW last night as well. During a segment featuring Liv Morgan and Becky Lynch, Morgan appeared to blame Lynch and her big-money contract for the release of her former Riott Squad teammates.

“You’re the reason why your friend is gone just like the reason why your big, fat greedy contract is the reason why MY friends are gone. How does it feel knowing you become everything you despised?”

CM Punk Match Announced For AEW Dynamite

Chris Stephens
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AEW has announced another big match for Wednesday’s edition of Dynamite from the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia.

CM Punk will be back in action against young up-and-comer Lee Moriarty.

After their promo battle last week, Maxwell Jacob Friedman will likely be watching this match closely.

CM Punk is excited at the prospect of mixing it up with Moriarty.

CM Punk vs Lee Moriarty

This will be Punk’s 8th match in AEW. He’s defeated Darby Allin, Powerhouse Hobbs, Daniel Garcia, Matt Sydal, Bobby Fish, Eddie Kingston, and QT Marshall.

As for Lee Moriarty, he’s 1-4 in singles matches in AEW. He’s defeated Nick Comoroto but lost to Bobby Fish, Daniel Garcia, Joey Janela, and Dante Martin.

AEW Dynamite Preview (12/1/21)

4 other matches have been confirmed for this week’s Dynamite.:

  • The TBS Title Tournament will continue with the final quarter-final match. Ruby Soho will face Kris Statlander with the winner moving on to face Jade Cargill in the semi-finals.
  • Bryan Danielson defeated Colt Cabana in front of Cabana’s hometown in Chicago last week. This week he will attempt to do the same thing to another member of the Dark Order. Alan “5” Angels, who is from the Atlanta area, will step up to the plate to face the American Dragon. AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page will likely be in attendance and have his eye on what happens here.

After Andrade El Idolo, Malakai Black and FTR defeated Cody Rhodes & Death Triangle in the main event last week, Andrade and Rhodes will face off in an Atlanta street fight this week. This was set up after Dynamite went off the air last week when Andrade gave Rhodes a DDT on the floor outside the ring. Considering this show is in Rhodes’ hometown, it should be interesting to see what fan reaction he gets. He might even toss his weight belt into the crowd again.

https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1465556194781802500
  • Darby Allin & Sting will continue their rivalry with the Gunn Club this week. This started on Rampage a couple of weeks ago when Darby Allin defeated Billy Gunn in singles competition. After the match, the Gunn Club attacked both him and Sting. On Dynamite last week, Allin was able to attack Austin Gunn on the ramp but Billy & Colten bailed before him and Sting could get their hands on them. This week, it will be Sting and Darby Allin against Billy & Colten Gunn in tag-team action.

Guinness Book of World Records Recognizes Randy Orton & Natalya Achievements

Chris Stephens
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The Guinness Book of World Records has recognized the achievements of both Randy Orton and Natalya. Both Orton and Natalya achieved PPV milestones for the company at this year’s Survivor Series.

In the case of Randy Orton, he broke the all-time record for most matches on WWE PPV when he wrestled in his 177th at Survivor Series. This topped Kane’s tally of 176. Natalya also set a record at Survivor Series, with her 68th PPV match, setting a record for women’s wrestlers in the company.

“Randy Orton (USA), one half of the current WWE RAW Tag Team Champions alongside Riddle, is a third-generation superstar who made his wrestling debut in 2000,” reads Guinness’ description of Orton’s record. “Fast forward 21 years and he has appeared on a record-breaking 177 pay-per-view (PPV) events, surpassing the previous record for most WWE PPV appearances (male) held by Kane (USA).”

“Natalya (Canada) has set the record for the most WWE PPV appearances (female)with 68 following her traditional 5-on-5 Survivor Series elimination match. Her team of Smackdown superstars lost to RAW’s,” reads a description of the record set by Natalya.

Other female wrestlers with large PPV match tallies include Charlotte Flair (57), Trish Stratus (43), Sasha Banks (43), Becky Lynch (43), Bayley (42), Lita (23), and Chyna (20).

Rhodes To The Top Renewed For Second Season

Chris Stephens
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Brandi and Cody Rhodes’ “Rhodes to the Top” reality series has been renewed for a second season, according to a report from the Wrestling Observer. The first season consisted of 13 episodes and has a 48% approval rating currently on Rotten Tomatoes.

The first season of the show averaged 360,000 viewers per episode and a 0.15 rating in the 18-49 demographic.

Episodes of the show are also available for viewing on TNT’s website here.

“Rhodes to the Top will take viewers behind-the-scenes as the powerhouse couple manage their ever-busier lives inside and outside the ring, all the while surrounded by a colorful and often hilarious motley crew of wrestlers, family and friends who both support and test them at every turn. Married in 2013, Cody and Brandi have been on an unprecedented path to wrestling greatness, but will now face their newest and possibly biggest challenge yet,” reads a description of the show on TNT’s website.

In an interview with the Wrap, Cody explained how the show peels back the curtain on the wrestling industry.

“Me, being an old-school wrester, that was always so taboo and almost scary to really pull the curtain back that far,” Rhodes explained. “But it’s almost insulting the audience’s intelligence not to do it this day and age because we have such a hardcore fan, a super fan that makes up the base of who watches AEW.”

WWE RAW Results (11/29): Edge & The Miz Return, Title Match Set For Day 1

Robert Lentini
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WWE RAW aired live from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. The RAW Tag Team Championships and United States Championship were defended tonight. Big E battled Kevin Owens in the main event event of this week’s show. If Kevin Owens won the match, he would be added to the WWE Championship match at Day 1 on January 1, 2022.

RAW Results (11/29)

  1. Seth Rollins def. Finn Balor
  2. RK-Bro def. Roode & Ziggler to retain the RAW Tag Titles
  3. Damian Priest def. Apollo Crews to retain the US Title
  4. Street Profits def. Alpha Academy
  5. Rey Mysterio & Dominik def. Shelton Benjamin & Cedric Alexander
  6. Team Liv Morgan def. Team Becky Lynch
  7. Kevin Owens def. Big E via DQ & will be added to the WWE Championship match at Day 1

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Rollins Will Face Big E At Day 1

Seth Rollins began this week’s show and claimed that nobody can keep him down. Rollins cackled into the microphone before saying that he has a secret. Seth announced that he will face Big E for the WWE Championship at Day 1.

Rollins stated that Day 1 will be the first day of a new era, the first day of his next championship reign. Seth added that this reign will define the future of RAW and this business. Rollins shouted that he was a revolutionary as the crowd booed.

Finn Balor interrupted and made his way to the ring for a singles match against Rollins. Balor tackled Rollins to begin the action and beat him down. Rollins rolled out of the ring to regroup but Finn followed him out there. Finn connected with a Clothesline over the barricade but Rollins shrugged it off. Rollins hit a Suicide Dive but Balor got up and hit the Slingblade on the floor. Finn bashed Rollins with the steel steps and rolled Seth into the ring.

The match officially started and Finn hit a Dropkick. Balor made his way to the top rope but Seth rolled out of the ring. Balor flipped onto Rollins as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Seth was back in control and hit the Falcon Arrow for a near fall.

Rollins made his way to the top rope and went for a Frog Splash but Finn got his knees up. Balor rolled up Rollins for a two count and followed it up with a Double Stomp. Finn geared up in the corner of the ring and went for another Slingblade but Rollins blocked it. Seth hit a Slingblade of his own and followed it up with a Superkick for a near fall.

Seth hit Balor with a Dropkick to the face but Balor responded with a Slingblade. Finn went for 1916 but Rollins countered with a forearm to the back of the head. Balor dropped to a knee and Rollins connected with the Stomp for the pinfall victory.

Later on RAW, Kevin Owens confronted Seth Rollins backstage. Owens claimed that Adam Pearce told him that if he beats Big E tonight, he gets added to the title match at Day 1. Seth didn’t believe Owens and went to go find Adam Pearce for confirmation. Pearce told Seth that Owens was lying and Rollins left. Sonya showed up after Rollins walked away and said that actually wasn’t a bad idea.

Rollins talked to Owens later on RAW. Seth claimed that Owens was lying and Kevin denied it. Owens said he was going to get added to the title match if he beats Big E tonight. Rollins laughed in his face and Owens walked away. Rollins joked with Pearce and Deville about it backstage. Pearce told Rollins that he actually thought it was a good idea and Seth got annoyed.

Vince McMahon Slapped Austin Theory

Vince McMahon was shown backstage meeting with Austin Theory. Austin asked how Vince was doing and McMahon went on a rant about how he hates when people ask that. A recap of Austin Theory admitting he stole the egg and being awarded a title match for it were then shown. McMahon told Austin that they were going to sit here together and watch the rest of the show. Vince told Austin to never steal from him again. Theory kept yelling at Austin throughout the night and told him to expect the unexpected before slapping him in the face.

Liv Morgan & Becky Lynch Traded Words, Title Match Set For Next Week

RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch got a great reaction from the crowd as RAW went to a break.

Lynch was then shown in the ring with Sonya Deville as this was now a contract signing for the RAW Women’s Championship match. Deville introduced Liv Morgan as Lynch’s challenger and the match will happen on next week’s RAW.

Lynch claimed that she wanted to get Liv Morgan angry and she accomplished that. Becky complimented Liv on her right hand but said one punch isn’t enough to take her title. Lynch suggested that Liv will wind up holding herself back like always and fall short of winning the RAW Women’s Championship.

Becky started poking fun at the New York Islanders and said they haven’t won a hockey “match” in a while. Liv Morgan told Becky to shut up to uproarious applause. Liv rolled footage of Becky Lynch crying after defeating Charlotte at Survivor Series. Morgan joked about Big Time Becks crying like a little baby. Liv called Lynch a bully and that she has learned from all of Becky’s mistakes. Liv claimed that Becky’s “big, fat, greedy contract” is the reason her friends are gone. Morgan went to punch Becky in the face but Sonya held her back. Lynch suggested a 5 on 5 tag team match later “Team Becks vs. Team Liv” and Morgan accepted.

RK-Bro Retained The RAW Tag Titles

RK-Bro defended the RAW Tag Team Championships against Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode tonight on RAW. Ziggler and Roode dominated the match early and isolated Riddle in the ring. Dolph beat Riddle down int he corner of the ring and went for a Splash. Riddle leaped out of the way at the last moment and Dolph crashed into the turnbuckle.

Orton tagged in and knocked Roode off the apron before delivering a Powerslam to Ziggler. Randy set up for the Draping DDT but Roode dragged Dolph to the floor. Orton punched Robert in the face before bouncing Ziggler’s head off the announce table. Ziggler leveled Orton with a Superkick and Roode slammed Riddle on top of the table. Roode and Ziggler posed for the crowd as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Ziggler hit Orton with a Splash in the corner. Roode tagged in and hit Randy with a Neckbreaker for a two count. Roode did some pushups before getting Orton in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Riddle tagged in and unloaded some knee strikes to Roode and Ziggler. Riddle followed it up with a couple Brotons and then the Draping DDT on Roode.

Orton tagged in and they both set up for an RKO as Roode & Ziggler got up. They both blocked it and Dolph hit the Zig Zag on Orton for a close two count. Dolph went for a Superkick but Orton blocked it before hitting the RKO for the pinfall victory. RK-Bro are still the RAW Tag Team Champions.

The Miz Interrupted Edge

Edge kicked off the 2nd hour of this week’s RAW to a big pop from the crowd. Edge said this was the best job in the world and told the crowd that he missed them. He noted that Seth Rollins is the #1 contender and he actually deserves it because he is operating on an entirely different level.

Edge noted that there a bunch of new opponents on RAW that he can sink his teeth into and listed off a bunch of names. The Miz interrupted with Maryse wearing Miz & Mrs. jackets. Miz joked that Edge has been gone for like a month and gets this big comeback. Miz complained about not getting a triumphant return and referred to Maryse as one of the greatest superstars of all time. The Miz was pissed that he wasn’t on Edge’s list and Edge joked that he thought Miz was still painting his face like a genie on Dancing with the Stars.

The Miz blamed the fans for not doing well on the show. Edge claimed that Miz was only interrupting him so he can get back on the main event scene. Edge started up a half hearted “Miz sucks!” chant from the crowd and Miz went on one of his rants about deserving respect.

Miz noted that he was WWE Champion six months ago while Edge hasn’t held a major title in forever. The Miz claimed that he has surpassed Edge long ago and that the Rated R Superstar should have stayed out for good. Edge admitted that he cannot do this for much longer but he fought his ass off for this small winder.

Edge noted how he has mutual respect with the superstars in the back while The Miz doesn’t. Edge pointed out how The Miz has people on other shows (CM Punk on Dynamite) mentioning his name just to get a cheap reaction and how Miz has made it farther than anyone thought he could. Edge added that Miz comes out here and expects respect while Edge earns it. He challenged Miz to a fight but Miz declined and left with Maryse to end the segment.

Street Profits def. Alpha Academy

AJ Styles and Omos joined commentary for a match between Street Profits and Alpha Academy. Styles was wearing sunglasses and claimed that he was blind due to being sprayed with the fire extinguisher. Styles tried to interfere in the match Montez booted him away. Ford then hit the Frog Splash for the quick victory. AJStyles argued with Omos to end the segment.

Damian Priest Retained The US Title

Damian Priest defended the United States Championship against Apollo Crews on this week’s edition of RAW. Commander Azeez was in Apollo’s corner for the match. Crews slammed Damian to the mat but the US Champion shrugged it off. Priest took Apollo down and applied a Headlock. Apollo escaped but Damian caught him with a shoulder tackle. Crews rolled out of the ring and Damian chased him. Commander Azeez got in the way and Crews capitalized with a knee to the face as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Priest connected with a slam and went for the cover but Apollo kicked out at two. Damian went for a Cannonball off the apron and barely connected. Damian hopped back on the apron but Commander Azeez tripped him up. The referee saw it and kicked Azeez out. Damian got pissed off and went right after Crews. Priest hit the Reckoning for the pinfall victory and retained the US Title.

Rey & Dominik Picked Up A Win

Cedric Alexander & Shelton Benjamin faced Rey Mysterio & Dominik tonight. Cedric and Dominik started off the action. Alexander hit a Suplex and tagged in Shelton Benjamin. Shelton continued to beat Dominik down and prevented him from tagging out.

Dominik eventually escaped and tagged in Rey Mysterio. Rey hit Shelton with a Hurricanrana before Cedric tagged in. Rey greeted him with a Dropkick before knocking Benjamin off the top rope. Mysterio set up for the 619 but Shelton broke it up. Dominik and Rey hit a stereo 619s before Dominik hit Cedric with a Frog Splash for the pinfall victory.

Team Liv def. Team Becky Lynch

Team Liv (Bianca Belair, Rhea Ripley, Nikki A.S.H., Dana Brooke, Liv Morgan) faced Team Becks (Doudrop, Queen Zelina, Carmella, Tamina, Becky Lynch). Becky and Liv started off the action and Lynch took control. Carmella tagged in and went for a Clothesline but Morgan dodged it.

Rhea tagged in and the heels surrounded her. Rhea fought them all off until Tamina dropped her. Tamina and Ripley then traded punches in the middle of the ring. Tamina got the better of the exchange and slammed Ripley to the mat. Rhea battled back and then the babyface surrounded Tamina. They beat her down and Belair went for the KOD before Lynch and company broke it up. The heels retreated out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Doudrop and Nikki A.S.H. were battling in the ring. Doudrop overpowered Nikki and slammed her to the mat. Becky tagged in and hit a Leg Drop before going for another one. Nikki got out of the way but Carmella prevented her from tagging out. Carmella threw Nikki to the corner and hit her with some elbows to the face.

Rhea Ripley tagged back in and unloaded some knee strikes to Carmella’s face. Ripley hit a Dropkick but then Carmella tripped her up. Carmella locked n the Code of Silence but Dana Brooke broke it up. Everything broke down and a brawl broke out. Doudrop hit Belair with a Crossbody but got sent out of the ring by Liv. Becky hit Liv with a reverse DDT but Rhea knocked her to the outside. Carmella hit Ripley with a Superkick and went for the cover but Ripley kicked out as RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Liv went for a Crossbody but Tamina blocked it. Liv hit Tamina with the Oblivion for the pinfall victory.

The WWE Title Match At Day 1 Is Now A Triple Threat

WWE Champion Big E squared off against Kevin Owens in this week’s main event. If Owens won the match, he would be added to the title match at Day 1. Seth Rollins joined commentary for the match. Big E dominated early and brought Owens to the outside. Big E and Rollins traded words and this allowed Owens to regroup. Kevin connected with a DDT that bashed Big E’s face into the steel steps as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Big E leveled Owens with a shoulder tackle. Owens battled back and slammed Big E into the turnbuckle. The two superstars battled to the top rope and Owens connected with a Superplex. Owens went for the cover but Big E was able to kick out at two.

Owens got the champ in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Big E escaped and Owens slammed him to the mat. Kevin went for a Senton but Big E got his knees up. Big E and Owens traded shots in the middle of the ring. Owens dropped Big E with a Superkick for a two count. Big E connected with a Uranage for a two count as Rollins was frustrated on commentary. Owens set up for a Frog Splash but took the time to attack Rollins.

Back in the ring, Owens went for the Stunner but Big E blocked it. Seth Rollins hopped in the ring and attacked Kevin Owens to end the match via DQ. Rollins went for the Stomp on Owens but Kevin escaped. Rollins hit Big E with the Stomp as Owens was announced the winner of the match via DQ. The ring announcer stated that Owens was added to the match and Seth threw a tantrum to close the show.

Maryse Returns On WWE Raw, Edge Mentions CM Punk’s Reference About The Miz

Andrew Ravens
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WWE had a few returns during the top of the second hour of Monday’s episode of Raw as Edge came out for a promo, which marked his first appearance since Crown Jewel where he defeated Seth Rollins in a Hell in a Cell match.

The WWE Hall of Famer talked about all of the top stars on the roster such as Damian Priest, Big E, AJ Styles, and Finn Balor as potential opponents, but pointed out how he hadn’t mentioned one name. This led to The Miz, who has been gone while being on the latest season of ABC’s Dancing With The Stars, and Maryse, his wife, coming out to the ring. 

Miz had an issue with WWE giving so much attention to Edge’s return even though he’s only been away for a month. He brought up how he doesn’t get the same treatment as Edge. He declared his wife is officially back in WWE and knocked Edge. He thinks he has surpassed Edge a long time ago and Edge should have stayed home for good.

Edge stated that Miz lives rent-free in people’s heads and people on other shows mention his name just to get a cheap reaction, which was a reference to CM Punk calling MJF a less famous version of The Miz on last week’s AEW Dynamite. 

Miz declined the offer to fight Edge and left the ring. It appears the match will take place at the Day 1 PPV event in January. 

Title Match Announced For WWE Day 1

Andrew Ravens
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Big E, Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins are set to face off on New Year’s Day for the WWE Championship. 

On Monday’s episode of Raw, Seth Rollins confirmed in a promo that he will challenge Big E for the WWE Title at the WWE Day 1 pay-per-view. This marks the first match to be confirmed for the PPV event. 

Rollins then beat Finn Balor in a singles match on the show. Rollins earned this title match by becoming the number one contender when he won a fatal four-way ladder match on Raw five weeks ago as he beat Finn Balor, Kevin Owens, and Rey Mysterio. 

However, Big E went one-on-one with Owens in a non-title match with the stipulation was that if Owens won, he would be added to the WWE Title. That happened so now it will be a triple threat match.

Big E has held the WWE Championship since cashing in his Money in the Bank briefcase on Bobby Lashley this September.  Since that time, he had successful title defenses against Lashley, Drew McIntyre, and Austin Theory.

WWE presents the Day 1 pay-per-view event on Saturday, January 1, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia at the State Farm Arena that will air on Peacock. WWE will be announcing more matches for this show in the coming weeks.

Ricochet Explains Why He Won’t Entertain Heel Turn Right Now

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Don’t expect Ricochet to turn heel at the moment.

Ricochet has been on the WWE roster since 2018. He captured the NXT North American Title before eventually being called up to the main roster.

Fans got to witness Ricochet win the WWE United States Championship on the Raw brand. He only held onto the title for 21 days.

Ricochet Can Turn Heel But Won’t Anytime Soon

“The Future of Flight” was a guest on Ryan Satin’s Out of Character podcast. During the session, Ricochet said he doesn’t feel it’s the right time to break away from the babyface role.

“In PWG, being the bad guy was kind of my bread & butter there for years. That’s where I kind of got my popularity” “So if I need to be a bad guy, we all know that I can be a bad guy if I need to be but right now, I don’t think I need to be.”

Ricochet also said that he likes feeding off the energy of the crowd. He also likes stepping up in the underdog role against bigger superstars to prove he belongs.

Supporters of Ricochet have been calling for WWE to utilize him in a more prominent role. He has shined in Money In The Bank ladder matches and NXT showdowns with the likes of Adam Cole and Pete Dunne but he hasn’t been able to grab the brass ring.

H/T to Wrestling Purists for the quotes

Original Plans For Cleopatra’s Golden Egg Storyline At WWE Survivor Series

Andrew Ravens
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WWE didn’t originally plan on having Austin Theory challenge Big E for the WWE Title on last Monday’s Raw as part of the storyline with Cleopatra’s golden egg, valued at $100 million.

WWE started the storyline at Survivor Series where someone stole Cleopatra’s golden egg from the desk of Vince McMahon. The egg was used in The Rock‘s recent “Red Notice” movie on Netflix.

McMahon stated in the storyline that he personally received the egg from The Rock, which was a way to promote the movie. After it was stolen, McMahon stated the person who could find the egg would get a WWE Title shot. Theory gave it back and lost to Big E on Raw. 

Fightful Select reports the original idea for the golden egg storyline was “much worse with the stakes much lower.” One of the pitches included some sort of integration with the WWE 24/7 Title. People who are associated with the movie said that this wouldn’t suffice for the tie-in, so they ended up involving Big E and the WWE Title.

McMahon being involved in the storyline wasn’t originally planned, but he was added as a make-good to add more importance to the “Red Notice” angle.

Tony Khan Defends Adam Cole: “He’s Over AF” – Cole Replies

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Tony Khan has responded to social media hot takes criticizing Adam Cole’s booking in AEW.

Adam Cole made his AEW debut at the end of the All Out PPV back in September. Since that time, he has realigned with Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks of The Elite.

While Cole has been getting fantastic crowd reactions, some believe he isn’t being presented as a headliner.

Over AF

Tony Khan responded to someone on Twitter who expressed his belief that Cole isn’t being utilized to his fullest potential.

“It’s false equivalence, Will. They try to move the line with ridiculous points aiming to dispute the credibility of something credible. Adam Cole is over af, he’s pushed & has many more young fans watching him than he did on Tuesdays. Would we argue if they said water wasn’t wet?”

Adam Cole’s take

Adam Cole addressed the banter about him. He wrote on Twitter, “No matter where I’ve gone…no matter how long it takes… I’ve always become “the guy.” Always.

Adam Cole was seen in action at the Full Gear PPV. He teamed with The Young Bucks to take on Christian Cage and Jurassic Express. The Superkliq ended up losing the match.

AEW was able to scoop Cole up once his WWE contract ended. Cole had competed on the NXT brand where he was the promotion’s main champion over a year.

As of late, Cole has once again joined forces with Bobby Fish. Fans, however, have taken notice of Cole seemingly leaving Fish high and dry when things don’t go their way.

Do you think Adam Cole is being underutilized by AEW?

Bully Ray Isn’t A Fan Of CM Punk’s ‘Needle Dick’ Line

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Bully Ray had a lot to say about the CM Punk-MJF promo and he isn’t a fan of one zinger.

On the Nov. 24 episode of Dynamite, fans got to witness the long-anticipated verbal battle between Punk and MJF. Both men hurled some digs that garnered big reactions from the crowd in Chicago.

Bully Ray Criticizes CM Punk One-Liner

On a new episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray had a suggestion for Punk’s future promos with MJF and explained why he hated the “needle dick” line.

“So, if I’m CM Punk you know what I’m gonna do? I’m gonna let MJF pile all those shots on me.

“I’m gonna let him get in as much steam on me as I possibly can because I know I don’t have enough material to come back at him with.

“He doesn’t have that much time in the business and the amount of time he does have he’s been doing so well.

“If I’m Punk in that situation, and this is definitely a Monday morning quarterback call cause I haven’t thought about this until now, I think I might let him get the best of me for real.

“Pile on so much heat that people are like, ‘Holy crap, Punk’s in a lot of trouble.’ And then have to do the one thing that you can beat him at, with your fists.

“That’s why I thought the needle dick line was stupid. ‘I’d like to punch you right in your needle dick.’ You’re supposed to wanna punch him in the face.”

Punk and MJF don’t have a matchup lined up officially but that definitely seems to be the plan. Both men competed in separate matches at Full Gear. Punk defeated Eddie Kingston, while MJF pinned Darby Allin.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

AEW’s Dante Martin Responds To Critics Of His Flashy In-Ring Style

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AEW star Dante Martin is aware of those who are critical of him due to his high-flying style. Very few wrestlers can get as much hang-time as Martin.

His flashiness has left many in awe. With that said, you can’t please everyone. Some fans have been vocal about wanting to see Martin develop other skills, such as mic work, facial expressions and in-ring storytelling.

During a recent chat with Jon Alba, the 20-year old Dante Martin was asked about people who are critical of his work.

“I think to the critics, they’re gonna voice their opinion and as long as overall the people are happy and you’re doing your job to the best you can that’s all that really matters,” he said. “People are gonna say what they’re gonna say at the end of the day. Whether your back’s turned or facing them, you just gotta do you.”

Assistance From Dean Malenko

Dean Malenko is one of the most renowned cruiserweights in wrestling history. He currently serves as a senior producer for AEW and Martin hasn’t hesitated to pick his brain.

“For sure. Just about every week I pull him to the side and we talk a little bit. He gives me an amazing amount of helpful tips, tricks, things he’s learned, different ways to set things up. He’s an amazing coach.”

Martin turned some heads with a recent angle on AEW TV. He ditched Lio Rush in favor of signing a contract to be a part of Team Taz.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Nia Jax Says It’s “Highly Unlikely” That She’ll Wrestle Again

Chris Stephens
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Nia Jax was released from WWE earlier this month. Shortly after her departure, Jax revealed that WWE released her while she was on a leave of absence to focus on her mental health.

She recently updated her Twitter account and her personal website to reflect her birth name, Lina Fanene.

Apparently some people took that as her having a new ring name for pro wrestling, but that’s not the case. The former WWE Superstar took to social media to set the record straight there.

“Calm TF down trolls,” she wrote. She also revealed that it’s “highly unlikely” that we’ll see her back in a wrestling ring again.

https://twitter.com/LinaFanene/status/1465333443726880776?s=20

The 37-year-old Nia Jax joined WWE in 2014. During her time in the company, she won the RAW Women’s Championship once and the WWE Women’s Tag Team titles along with Shayna Baszler twice.

Following her release from the company, Nia took to social media to release a statement.

“It breaks my heart to be so abruptly let go, without consultation, when dealing with so much privately. I loved my career at WWE, I love the men and women I worked with, and I am going to need time to process this huge loss. I appreciate those people who have shown understanding and compassion during an incredibly difficult time.”

Nia Jax Issues Statement Regarding WWE Release

Eric Bischoff On Why Goldberg Was Difficult To Deal With

Chris Stephens
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Eric Bischoff recently named Bill Goldberg as a talent who was particularly difficult to deal with in WCW. On his 83 Weeks podcast, Bischoff commented on what it is about Goldberg that made him this way.

“I think on a consistent basis; it would have been Bill Goldberg. Not necessarily in a bad way. Just that, Bill was a very intense person. Emotional, and didn’t have a lot of experience, and was pretty uncomfortable in a pro wrestling environment when he first got there,” Bischoff said.

“So, as a result, you take someone who is an intense personality, a very intense personality, a bit of a perfectionist, who puts a lot of pressure on himself. But, also, lacking a lot of the comfort that comes with experience. You get a guy that’s a little hard to handle, or sometimes a lot hard to handle. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. That’s just a thing.”

Goldberg made his WCW debut on the September 22, 1997 episode of Nitro. He defeated Hugh Morrus on that show and started his long undefeated streak. Goldberg would continuing winning matches until eventually defeating Hollywood Hogan in the Georgia Dome on July 6, 1998. His streak would eventually end at Starrcade 98 on December 27th, 1998. Kevin Nash pinned Goldberg after Scott Hall interfered and zapped him with a cattle prod.

In addition to his WCW Championship reign, Goldberg is also a 2x WWE Universal Champion. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2018.

H/t to Sportskeeda for transcriptions.

Big E Says AEW Is Forcing WWE To Raise Its Game Up

Chris Stephens
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Big E recently commented on how AEW has impacted the wrestling business. According to the WWE Champion, competition forces everyone to step their game up. During a recent interview with The Illuminerdi, Big E also said that having AEW around gives more wrestlers a place work if they don’t happen to fit with what WWE is looking for.

“I know, from a fan perspective, a lot of people would prefer that I come in here and trash talk everyone in AEW and stir the pot,” Big E told . “But that’s not my style.”

“I think it forces us to raise our game,” Big E continued. “If you watch their shows, and you see rabid fans/people losing their minds and people loving those shows. It should make us want to say, ‘Yo! We want to be dominating them, we want to step our game up, we want to put on the better show.’”

Big E supports an alternative

AEW has also provided a new place for talent to work while earning major league-level money. It also provides wrestlers with more leverage in contract negotiations with other companies.

“I think it’s just also very good we have men and women who may not fit here in WWE, who may not want – whatever it is,” Big E explained. “But now they have a place they can go. And they can wrestle. They can make money, they can live their dream, they can be on TV, so I think it’s great.”

The WWE Champion Big E will be in action tonight on WWE Raw. He’ll face Kevin Owens in a non-title match. His WWE Championship reign currently sits at 77 days. During his run, he has defended the title 3x (not including house shows). Big E has defeated Bobby Lashley in a steel cage on RAW, Drew McIntyre at Crown Jewel, and most recently Austin Theory on last week’s edition of RAW.

The full interview with Big E can be viewed in the player below:

Ric Flair Offered A Match Against Sammy Guevara in Israel

Michael Reichlin
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Ric Flair says a wrestling promoter based out of Israel offered him a chance to get back in the ring against Sammy Guevara.

During the latest episode of his WOOOOO! Nation Uncensored podcast, the Nature Boy says he’s open to lacing up the boots once again.

However, he doesn’t work cheap. Flair told his co-host Mark Madden his asking price is a hundred grand.

“$100,000 and two first-class tickets, I’m there.”

– Ric Flair

Ric Flair isn’t flying halfway around the world on a handshake. He would also require 50% of the payday up-front. He added, “50-percent down, 50-percent after I beat Sammy.”

Flair called Sammy Guevara a “great” talent who could carry him to a 15-20 minute match. He’s still in the gym training, just in case.

Ric Flair’s In-Ring Future

A few weeks ago, the 72-year-old Flair said WWE is preventing him from “doing anything” at the moment.

“WWE won’t let me do anything, even though I’m released,” he said. “I understand, they have so much liability and I told them I would sign anything, but nobody wants me to die on their watch. I’d rather die in the ring. If I have to go. I’d rather not jump off the 19th floor or spend another 31 days in the ICU.”

Flair tweeted the following on Monday morning that if he’s going to die, it’s going to be “next to his hot wife” or in the ring next to Sammy Guevara.

The reigning AEW TNT Champion replied, “Wrestling God vs. Spanish God”

Listen to Ric Flair talking about receiving an offer to wrestle Sammy Guevara:

Jaxson Ryker Comments On His WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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Jaxson Ryker was among the names released from WWE earlier this month. He recently spoke about his WWE departure on the Wrestling For The Faith podcast.

“I’m not bitter, I’m not angry and I’m not mad by any means,” Ryker said. “I had five fun years there where I got to do a lot of cool stuff. I got to travel all over the United States, wrestle in front of thousands of packed out stadiums and just had a really fun, good time with The Forgotten Sons, you know, doing the stuff with Elias leading up to the first live Raw that was in Dallas, Texas and had a good time but yeah, we came to terms on the end of my contract.”

Ryker continued to say that he’s excited about what the future may hold.

“I look forward to the future, what God’s gonna do, I think he’s got some cool doors that are gonna open up for me and let’s just see what happens.”

Ryker, who wrestled as Gunner in TNA, said that his release from that company in 2015 was more of a devastating blow than being cut by WWE.

“It’s not a front I’m putting on by any means because Lord knows 10 years ago, let’s see, I got released from TNA or IMPACT Wrestling in 2015 and it was more of a devastating blow,” Ryker continued. “I felt like and financially, I wasn’t as stable obviously but I guess it was my relationship with the Lord was not as strong then.”

Jaxson Ryker Had Backstage Heat Leading Up To WWE Release

According to a report from Fightful, Ryker had an “incredible amount of heat” backstage leading up to his release. This was due to comments he’d made regarding the Black Lives Matter movement and other issues. Mustafa Ali publicly responded to some of Ryker’s comments in the below Tweet:

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for transcriptions.

Adam Cole, Xavier Woods, Tyler Breeze, & Cesaro Tease Da Party Reunion

Chris Stephens
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Adam Cole, Xavier Woods, Tyler Breeze, and Cesaro are known to video game fans as Da Party. Their frequent gaming adventures were dealt a blow this year, however, after two members of the group left WWE. Tyler Breeze was released and Adam Cole signed with AEW after his WWE contract expired.

Recently, members of Da Party have been teasing a reunion. They took to social media using the hashtags #DaParty and #DaPartyForever yesterday.

Xavier Woods recently commented that a Da Party reunion could take place on his G4 show when it begins next year.

“Being linked to WWE where anything can happen, G4 would be a great place to interact with other wrestling talent from anywhere,” Woods said to Cinema Blend recently. 

“I’m hoping that it is a means to create more content with more people that you normally wouldn’t see us creating content with.”

“I’m not sure the ins and outs of things like that, but I am definitely hoping that we see a little bit of [holds up Adam Cole t-shirt]…some of that. So if we can re-link up with some Da Party stuff, that’d be great.”

WWE will be producing Woods’ show on the rebooted G4 network.

Xavier Woods Hoping To Reunite with Kenny Omega & Adam Cole on G4

Why Does Bryan Danielson Wear a Plain White T-Shirt in AEW?

Michael Reichlin
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Bryan Danielson has worn a plain white t-shirt during many of his AEW television appearances.

According to the American Dragon, there’s a reason for this unassuming gear. During a recent appearance on the Casual Conversations podcast, Danielson said he is generally not in favor of selling merchandise to his fans.

“So AEW came up with a very nice American Dragon Is Back t-shirt,” he began.” I think one of the things that has confused their merchandising people and also confused the WWE merchandising people is that I don’t wanna sell people things.”

The Steve Jobs of AEW

Danielson likened his plain white t-shirt to Apple co-founder Steve Jobs always wearing a black turtleneck shirt.

“So, it’s a choice,” he continued. “It also makes my life simpler, in the sense of like I don’t have to worry what I’m going to wear to TV, right, so a white shirt and some joggers.”

“There’s Steve Jobs, who was infamous for he would just do the black turtleneck and he didn’t have to worry. I don’t wanna waste my time thinking about what I’m going to wear.”

It’s convenient for Daniel Bryan to just throw on a white t-shirt and not have to worry about styling an outfit for himself. However, he stated once again that his love for the environment makes it difficult for him to play merchandise pitch-man to his fans.

“Anyways, there’s a certain aspect of that but part of my service is this idea of how we can benefit the planet and all that kind of stuff. One of the things that is hard for me is to sell people stuff.”

Listen to Bryan Danielson on Casual Conversations:

John Morrison Comments On WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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John Morrison was amongst the names cut from WWE’s roster this month. He recently took to social media to comment on his departure from the company.

“I want you all to know how grateful I am for the support you gave me during this past run with WWE,” Morrison says in a video posted to Instagram. “I also want you to know that I did in fact receive a phone call from John Laurinaitis during which he told me that my services as a talent were no longer required by WWE. I didn’t even get a, ‘Best of luck on your future endeavors.’ I mean, if you’re gonna let me go, at least hit your catchphrase, right?”

Morrison continued to talk about how during this run with WWE he got to see and work with people he hadn’t in 10 years. He also got to make new friends and work with some of the best production in the business. During his first run with WWE, Morrison says he learned that wrestling is about telling stories more than anything else, and he’s still got more of his story to go.

“I happen to be a storyteller who takes a lot of pride in being able to do the flips, the tricks, the kicks and the hair whips but, those are just tools. The moves, the ropes, the ring, the mic, they are all just tools used by those who practice the art of professional wrestling to tell stories, and the great thing about being a storyteller is that when one chapter ends, another one begins.”

Morrison’s full comments can be heard in the player below:

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CW1ikErPnnC/?utm_medium=copy_link

Morrison returned to WWE in the fall of 2019 after having been gone since 2011. Prior to his WWE return, Morrison worked 2 years for Impact Wrestling where he won the promotion’s world title. He also worked on the Lucha Underground series, and won that promotion’s major championship as well.

Transcriptions via POST Wrestling

Dominik Mysterio Was Shocked WWE Booked Him To Face Seth Rollins

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Dominik Mysterio couldn’t believe WWE booked him in a match with Seth Rollins at a major event so soon.

Rollins had a lengthy feud with Rey and Dominik Mysterio in 2020. At the Summerslam PPV that year, Dominik went one-on-one with Seth in a street fight.

Dominik Mysterio Gets An Unexpected Booking

On an episode of The Kurt Angle Show, Dominik Mysterio. recalled his father Rey telling him that he’d be facing Seth Rollins.

“Oh, most definitely. I was excited, I thought it was a joke at first. When he told me I thought my dad was kidding but they were serious and it ended up becoming one of my favorite matches, and I’ve only had a year [laughs].”

Dominik went on to say that despite his father expressing worry over the timing, he felt ready for the moment.

“When he asked me he’s like, ‘No, it’s serious.’ I told him, ‘Alright, let’s do it.’ I thought I was ready.

“I had been training already for a little over two years. So, if there was gonna be a time, now is the time. I wasn’t gonna skip on this opportunity.”

Dominik was praised by many for coming through in a big spot despite not having much time in the ring. Of course, Rollins also received credit for being the seasoned veteran and future Hall of Famer that he is.

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Sasha Banks Recalls Taking A Break Due To Mental Health Issues

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Sasha Banks felt on top of the world but she realized some time off was needed.

Banks has emerged as a top female star in WWE over the years. “The Boss” has won multiple championships and is relied upon to fulfill any role asked of her. No one is immune to the struggles that can come from mental health issues, however.

Sasha Banks Reflects On Time Off

In 2019, Sasha Banks realized that she wasn’t exactly feeling the love for a profession that she’s always been glued to. Speaking to Ariel Helwani for BT Sport, she revealed the moment she realized a break was in order.

“Maybe, yeah 2019 I was at that WrestleMania when I was just like, ‘Woah, I’m not nervous. I don’t feel anything and this is Wrestle freaking Mania. I couldn’t believe it.

“The biggest fan, the girl that wanted this her entire life didn’t feel anything at the biggest show ever?

“I mean, this is every wrestler’s dream to be here, and at that very moment I knew that I needed to take a break and I was like, ‘Alright, I gotta go find myself.’ And I did and it’s the best decision that I ever made and I’m so thankful that I did.”

Banks went into further detail on knowing that she simply wasn’t feeling right.

“It’s the energy that you feel. It’s the feeling, the numbness that you feel of going out there and not feeling the crowd the same way that you used to and not feeling that energy from them.

“If you go out there feeling numb and there’s no light in your eyes, if you can’t perform at your highest good, even though I did go out there and I put 110 percent, I was not loving it.

“There was no light behind my eyes and I wanted to find that again because this was my everything. This has been my life since I was 10 years old and I wasn’t gonna let it kill me.

“So, I was gonna find my light with it again. So, I took my break and it’s the best, best, best decision I ever made. It’s the best I’ve ever been.”

Just two years later, Banks found herself headlining night one of WrestleMania against Bianca Belair.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

The Undertaker Was ‘Livid’ With One WWE Angle

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The Undertaker was none too pleased with one angle that he was a part of.

Loyalty runs deep with The Undertaker. The future Hall of Famer worked for WWE for three decades. With that said, not even Undertaker is immune from partaking in some less than stellar angles.

In the 1993 Survivor Series, The Undertaker was on was The All-Americans team to take on The Foreign Fanatics.

On an episode of Raw ahead of the PPV, The Undertaker announced he would be part of team All-Americans by revealing the 13-colony flag inside his jacket.

A Patriotic Undertaker

During an appearance on WWE’s The Bump, Undertaker admitted that he thought the reveal was terrible.

“If it had been up to me, you wouldn’t have seen it on this night either. Believe me, I’m as big a patriot as will come down the road.

“I do a lot of work with our veterans and our first responders but when Vince presented that to me I was like, ‘There is no way in heck I am gonna walk out there and open my coat with that flag.’

taker flag jacket

“He thought it was so cool because it was like the Betsy Ross 13-colony flag and that was what was gonna make it cool. I was livid.

“I was like, ‘This is not what Undertaker does.’ His out to that was because it was the colonial, you know, the 13 stars and that’s what The Undertaker would wear.”

When asked if the jacket still exists, The Undertaker had the following response.

“I don’t know. I never put it back on but the jacket may exist but that flag’s gone.”

WWE held its “Final Farewell” for The Undertaker back at the 2020 Survivor Series. There were no fans in attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Watch: Bruce Prichard recalls The Undertaker’s patriotic jacket:

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Slick Returning To Wrestling To Sing “Jive Soul Bro” At Indy Event

Chris Stephens
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“The Doctor of Style” Slick is returning to pro-wrestling. The WWE Hall of Famer will be singing “Jive Soul Bro” live on a ISPW show December 10th in Butler, New Jersey. He will be the special guest on “The Winner’s Circle” a talking segment hosted by Andy Vineberg.

ISPW issued a press release on Slick’s return to pro-wrestling.

“ISPW Christmas Chaos will be highlighted by an extremely rare appearance by WWE Legend “The Doctor of Style” Slick, who will be appearing on “The Winner” Andy Vineberg’s talk show The Winner’s Circle. Slick promises to put everyone in the Christmas spirit by singing a special carol, but it will not be a Christmas song. The Doctor of Style will be performing his hit song Jive Soul Bro live at Christmas Chaos!!!!” The press release reads.

Tickets for the show are available here.

Also on the card will be Bull James taking on Danny Morrison (Danny Doring). Inagrual winner of Tough Enough, Maven, will be the special guest referee in the match. Crowbar will also face Homicide in the 2nd of a special double main event. Also in attendance for the show will be ISPW’s commissioner, Tito Santana.

Both Slick and Tito Santana will be available for Meet and Greets before the show.

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