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Candy Cartwright Drops Sexual Assault Lawsuit Against Matt Riddle

Andrew Ravens
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Samantha Tavel, better known as Candy Cartwright, has decided to drop her sexual assault lawsuit against Matt Riddle.

TMZ reported today that they’ve obtained court documents that show Tavel filed for a dismissal on Monday, but it’s unclear if the two sides reached a monetary settlement. 

Tavel’s attorney, John Chwarzynski, did issue a statement to TMZ by stating, “The parties have put this in their past and are focused on the future.” As of this writing, Riddle’s attorney has not issued a comment.

Tavel first filed the lawsuit last October against Riddle, WWE, EVOLVE Wrestling, and Gabe Sapolsky where she was looking to get 10 million dollars from each defendant.

This past March, WWE, and Sapolsky were dismissed from the lawsuit while Riddle’s attempt to dismiss was denied. Tavel alleged that Riddle began sexually assaulting her in April 2017 while they were in the parking lot after an EVOLVE event.  She also alleged Riddle bragged about this to former EVOLVE owner Gabe Sapolsky.

Although Riddle denied the allegations, he did confirm an affair with Cartwright. Throughout the legal process, WWE never took Riddle off TV. He will take part in the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match on Sunday at WWE Money in the Bank.

WWE Raw Ratings Up For Go-Home Money In The Bank Edition (7/12)

Andrew Ravens
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Monday’s edition of WWE Raw averaged 1.609 million viewers with a 0.43 rating in the Adults 18-49 demographic. This is up from last week’s 1.472 million viewers and the 0.41 rating. 

Last Monday’s Raw set a new all-time low for viewership since the show premiered in 1993.

This week’s show was the go-home edition of Raw for Sunday’s Money in the Bank pay-per-view event. The show did have to go up against the MLB home run derby on ESPN. 

Here’s the rest of the viewership breakdown for Monday Night Raw, courtesy of Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics:

  • P18-49: 560,000 (-4%)
  • M18-49: 331,000 (-12%)
  • F18-49: 229,000 (+11%)
  • P18-34: 197,000 (-2%)
  • M18-34: 98,000 (-19%)
  • F18-34: 99,000 (+23%)
  • P35-49: 363,000 (-5%)
  • M35-49: 233,000 (-7%)
  • F35-49: 130,000 (-2%)
  • non-P18-49: 1,049,000 (-1%)

This episode featured Asuka vs. Naomi vs. Alexa Bliss vs. Nikki Cross, Ricochet vs. John Morrison in a falls count anywhere match, WWE Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Xavier Woods in a non-title match, AJ Styles vs. Ivar, United States Champion Sheamus vs.Humberto Carrillo, and Omos vs. Erik.

SmackDown Viewership

The episode drew an average of 1.881 million viewers in the overnight ratings, up from the previous week that did 1.741 million viewers. In the 18-49 demographic, it did a 0.48 rating, which was up from the 0.46 rating the week before.  The final ratings were 1.986 million viewers, up from last week’s 1.861 million viewers.

Update on WWE UK Ratings & TV Deal With Channel 5

Alex Laybourne
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In a recent article, we detailed how poor WWE ratings led to the removal of highlight shows from Channel 5 programming. Channel 5 is a free to air channel in the UK. Since that article was published, more details have come to light regarding the changes.

The WWE highlight shows for RAW and Smackdown are no longer part of scheduled Channel 5 programming. However, they are available as part of the My5 on-demand service. We also mentioned that the deal with Channel had been lost. It has since been confirmed that the deal was not exclusively with Channel 5, but rather with ViacomCBS. Channel 5 comes under the ViacomCBS banner, and that deal is very much still in place.

We also incorrectly stated that the only places to watch WWE in the UK were via subscription channels such as BT Sport. While BT Sport is the primary channel, the highlight shows for all three brands are available on Paramount TV. This is a free to air channel available on the UK’s Freeview service. Channel 5 is a terrestrial channel, available with or without a digital connection. Freeview is a free to use digital TV service.

WWE Ratings Not Behind Programming Change

We originally reported that the reason for Raw and Smackdown highlights being removed from Channel 5 programming was due to poor WWE ratings. However, according to WWE sources, this was not the case.

Currently, in the UK, WWE shows can be watched on the following channels and via their associated on-demand services.

  • Paramount Network (My5 on-demand)
  • BT Sport

BT Sport is part of a subscription package costing a minimum of £15 a month, while Paramount is a free to watch channel. Both Raw and Smackdown are broadcast live as part of their subscription package. BT Sport also offers access to all WWE PPV events.

Sescoops apologizes for the inaccuracies in our previous report on WWE ratings in the UK.

Paul Heyman Comments On Brock Lesnar Potentially Returning To WWE

Chris Stephens
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Paul Heyman recently took part in an interview with Metro and commented on Brock Lesnar’s possible return to WWE. According to Heyman, he will “burn that bridge when he has to cross it.”

“Brock Lesnar does what Brock Lesnar wants to do,” Heyman said during the interview. “If Brock Lesnar wants to return to WWE, he will. If Brock Lesnar wants to take the UFC Championship from Francis Ngannou, he will”

Heyman continued to list things Lesnar could possibly choose to accomplish.

“If Brock Lesnar wants to join football and run circles around Neymar and Ronaldo and [David] Beckham, he will. If Brock Lesnar to get involved with rugby, he’ll smash every record of any rugby player in the history of the game – and he will.”

“Brock Lesnar does what Brock Lesnar wants to do,” Heyman shrugged. “So I’ll burn that bridge when I have to cross it.”

Should Lesnar return to the company, it’s not clear how Heyman’s on-screen role would adjust considering he now advocates for Roman Reigns on Smackdown. Heyman will be in Reigns’ corner this weekend when the Universal Champion faces Edge at Money in the Bank.

Lesnar was spotted recently sporting a new ponytail and cutting up meat with The Bearded Butchers.

https://twitter.com/_Beardedbutcher/status/1414582249287213060

Matt & Reby Hardy Welcome 4th Child, Ever “Eevee” Moore

Chris Stephens
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Matt & Reby Hardy’s family grew by another member this weekend. The couple welcomed their 4th child together. Ever “Eevee” Moore Hardy was born on July 11th in an outdoor home birth. The couple’s new daughter joins Maxel, 6, Wolfgang, 4, and Bartholomew, 19 months.

The Hardys spoke with US Weekly about the addition to their family.

“Eevee was born at home at 5:18 p.m., weighing 6lbs, 8oz,” the pair told Us on Tuesday, July 13, noting that their daughter was 20 inches long. “[She was] lovingly welcomed by Mom and Dad and surrounded by a team of professional midwives and doulas … outdoors, during a rainstorm.”

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

Ever “Eevee” Moore Hardy was born outside during a rain storm. Photos can be viewed here.

Matt Hardy On Fatherhood

Matt Hardy became a father for the first time 6 years ago when King Maxel was born. Him and Reby have now had 4 kids together.

“Happy Father’s Day to all the badass Dads out there that are doing it right. It’s an exhausting, challenging role, but the most rewarding role in the world. I love my three little men, Maxel, Wolfie and Bartie, that allowed me to become a father,” Matt wrote on Instagram on Father’s Day last month.

Xavier Woods Wants To ‘Trade In’ Championship Match for King of The Ring

Jake Skudder
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WWE RAW Superstar Xavier Woods has taken to social media to say that he wants to ‘trade in’ his WWE Championship match for a chance to enter the King of The Ring tournament.

Xavier Woods defeated WWE Champion Bobby Lashley on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW, ahead of his New Day tag team partner Kofi Kingston getting a shot at the ‘All-Mighty’ this Sunday at the WWE Money In The Bank PPV event.

“Last night I beat the WWE champion” Woods tweeted today. “Normally that means I’m owed a championship match. I’d like to exchange that for a one night King of The Ring tournament at the company’s earliest convenience” the 11 time WWE Tag Team Champion added.

Xavier Woods Wants Tournament

“And I’d like Riddle on the opposite end of the bracket. I owe him one…” Woods concluded, hinting at a showdown with the Original Bro at some point in the near future.

It was recently rumored that WWE were looking at bringing back the King of The Ring tournament as a gimmick for upcoming shows of RAW and SmackDown. AEW have had a lot of success with their special themed episodes of Dynamite, so WWE could also capitalize on the rich history of concepts/ideas that they have at their disposal.

Rickey Shane Page Announced for AEW Dark

Jake Skudder
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Deathmatch legend and leader of 44.OH Rickey Shane Page has been announced for this week’s episode of AEW Dark. The tenured GCW star has been with Game Changer Wrestling since 2018, and Page has worked with AEW star Joey Janela in the past.

RSP will be facing Dark standout Dante Martin on this week’s episode of the show, following his recent Dynamite match against Matt Sydal.

Rickey Shane Page held the Game Changer Wrestling title for 488 days until he was defeated by the Deathmatch King Nick Gage at GCW rSpring Break on April 9 of this year.

Rickey Shane Page in AEW

RSP has also held several titles from the independent scene, racking up an impressive resume that includes the likes of the AAW Heritage, IWA King of The Deathmatch and the CZW World Heavyweight Championship. Page also won the fabled CZW Tournament of Death in 2016.

Here’s the full confirmed lineup for this week’s episode of AEW Dark:

  • Dark Order (Evil Uno & Stu Grayson) vs. Papadon & Sean Maluta
  • Brian Cage vs. Foxx Vinyer
  • Matt Hardy vs. Jah-C
  • Lee Johnson & Brock Anderson vs. Mark Davidson & Aaron Frye
  • Penelope Ford vs. Robyn Renegade
  • The Acclaimed (Anthony Bowens & Max Caster) vs. Derek Pisaturo & Roman Rozell
  • Dante Martin vs. Rickey Shane Page
  • Gunn Club (Billy & Colten Gunn) vs. The Wingmen (Cezar Bononi & JD Drake)
  • Diamante vs. Harlow O’Hara

Big E Reveals WWE Creative Has Pushed To Break Up New Day

Alex Laybourne
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The New Day were a group that shook up the WWE Universe. Their growth and appeal had the organic surge that no amount of creative talent could scribe. They dominated the scene until they were separated in the last WWE Draft. Since then, Big E has been left to go it alone as a singles competitor.

This is a role he has relished, and a challenge he has risen to. As of writing, he stands on the precipice of something great. The Money in the Bank ladder match and a near-guaranteed championship run. During a recent chat with TalkSport, Big E spoke about WWE trying to break up New Day. He alluded to a conversation with WWE boss Vince McMahon and his desire to see the New Day disband in dramatic fashion.

Big E told Alex McCarthy, “I know there were rumors for a while that certain things were pitched, but I think because we had been so adamant about not wanting to be broken up, I think that’s where people were like ‘Ehhh, I don’t know if we should because they really don’t want it.’ I can’t really divulge the conversation, but even from the top of the business, the very head of what we do – you know exactly who I’m talking about – he directly told us ‘Hey, this is the idea’ and we said, we’re not feeling it.”

He added that this conversation took place after KofiMania, but the idea of him turning on Kingston and Woods had been pitched several times prior.

New Day Has More to Offer

A betrayal is a classic way for a group to disband. There have been times over the years where such a thing looked likely for the New Day. Whether it be jealousy at Kofi’s championship run, or when Bray Wyatt put his spell on Xavier Woods. However, Big E is glad they were able to convince the creative folk at WWE otherwise.

“I think we still have so much to offer as a group, and I just like telling stories in a different way. I get our business is a business of conflict, but I think the story of brotherhood and three guys who genuinely want the best for each other is different and unique.”

Big E is enjoying his singles push; however, the group have already shown that individual success doesn’t weaken their bond as a group. With the 2021 WWE draft drawing ever closer, could we be seeing the New Day reunited?

Bully Ray Comments On The Current State of ROH

Chris Stephens
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Bully Ray recently commented on the state of Ring of Honor on Busted Open Radio. According to Bully Ray, the company needs to do something to become must-see TV. Along with Dave LaGreca, they were talking about the Best in the World PPV this weekend when Bully had the following to say:

“As great as a PPV as it was, people gotta get their eyes on it. Ring of Honor has to find a way to make their show must-see and from what I know about the company being there first-hand is they don’t exactly go out of their way to make any of their stuff must-see,” Bully said on the show.

“The most must-see time in Ring of Honor is when Cody and the Bucks were there,” Bully continued.

“They have to find a way to bottle that energy that was there when Cody and the Bucks were there and make it their own. Unless you do that, Ring of Honor will stay in the same place it has always stayed.”

“These guys are really freakin good at what they do but if you are that good and nobody sees it, what’s the point?” Bully later asked.

Bully continued to talk about Sinclair’s ownership of Ring of Honor.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think Sinclair cares about Ring of Honor the same way Ring of Honor cares about Ring of Honor or anybody else does. Ring of Honor is a much different wrestling company. It’s a company owned by Sinclair broadcasting and Sinclair broadcasting also owns a lot of other stuff so Ring of Honor just kind of gets in line and waits for their turn.”

Blair Davenport Talks About Joining WWE, Changing Her Name

Alex Laybourne
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One of the marquee signings for NXT UK made her debut last week. Blair Davenport as she is now known had been a rumoured signing, but her appearance shocked everybody. In a recent interview with TalkSport, the wrestler formerly known as Bea Priestley explained how everything came about.

Blair Davenport was a star in Japan, wrestling under her previous name for Stardom. She even made a few appearances for AEW. Then the pandemic struck, and the wrestling landscape changed.

“During the pandemic, there was a small window,” Davenport explained to Alex McCarthy. “Obviously, I got cut from AEW because my visa expired and there was no hope for a new visa happening at that time. There was a tiny window in August where people who had Japan visas could go back, so I went back to Japan. I loved STARDOM so much, but this time I think I was the only foreigner there, whereas before, I had a group of friends with me. I love the roster, but I did feel very isolated.”

Wrestling is a global enterprise, and when something unprecedented like a pandemic happens, even the best-laid plans are forced to change. For Blair Davenport, however, everything has worked out for the best.

She got to finish her time in Japan and settle her business out there. She got to wrestle for AEW, in a deal that let her combine both Stardom and AEW appearances. Then, as she was ready for a break and some time at home, NXT came calling.

Blair Davenport’s Road to WWE

For a star as impressive as Blair Davenport, it’s not surprising that she was on WWE’s radar for some time. Timing is key when it comes to professional wrestling. That does for outside of the ring as much as it does within.

Davenport didn’t sign with WWE because she had other things, she needed to do first. She didn’t want to have any regrets by the end of her career.

“NXT UK reached out to me when they were first making the roster in 2018 but it was the day after I signed my World of Sport contract. They reached out again at the beginning of 2019 and I spoke to Canyon Ceman. I was going to sign, but I wanted to do more in Japan. I said that to Canyon. He said, ‘Okay, cool, we’ll keep in touch and call you back in six months.’ Literally, two days later, AEW got in contact with me and offered me the schedule where I could live in Japan but still work for them and have the best of both worlds.”

The time is now right for Blair Davenport. It’s a new era in wrestling, and it’s a new name and a new attitude for the woman formerly known as Bea Priestley.

Cara Noir vs Jody Fleisch Announced for PROGRESS Chapter 115

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS World Champion Cara Noir will be defending his title against British pro wrestling legend Jody Fleisch this weekend at the Chapter 115: For The Hearts That Never Played In Tune show.

Noir has defended his title since the return of the company in 2021, defeating the likes of Dan Moloney, Natural Progression Series winner Luke Jacobs, Kid Lykos and ELIJAH.

Jody Fleisch has been a staple on the UK independent wrestling scene since the early 2000s, as well as being one of the top high-flyers in the world during his illustrious career.

Fleisch has appeared for the likes of GCW, Ring of Honor and PWG, where he appeared as part of the BOLA tournament in 2018.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jody Fleisch said that he is looking forward to facing the reigning Champion.

“I’m really looking forward to my match with Cara. I’m on a good run of form for progress. I know I’m faster. I know I’m stronger. He’s a strange cat and he uses that to his advantage when he gets the chance but there really isn’t much in wrestling that haven’t seen and dealt with. Bring it on.”

PROGRESS Chapter 115

Here’s the currently confirmed card for PROGRESS Chapter 115 – For The Hearts Who Never Played In Tune:

  • PROGRESS World Championship Match – Cara Noir (c) vs Jody Fleisch
  • Big Money Gun Dogs vs Lykos Gym – Dog House Rules Match
  • Malik (w/Kosta K) vs Ethan Allen (w/Luke Jacobs)
  • Greedy Souls vs Sunshine Machine
  • Mercedez Blaze (w/Taonga) vs Roxxy Hellz Belle
  • Nick Riley vs Charlie Sterling – PROGRESS Championship #1 Contender’s Match

Buddy Murphy Facing AEW Star in First Post-WWE Match

Jake Skudder
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Former WWE Superstar Buddy Murphy has been confirmed for his first post-WWE match this September. The former WWE Cruiserweight Champion will be facing AEW star and FTW Champion Brian Cage on an independent card in the ECW Arena.

Brian Cage confirmed on Instagram that he would be facing the ‘Best Kept Secret’ on Saturday, September 18 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The match will be taking place for the Battleground Championship Wrestling promotion.

“JUST ANNOUNCED! Murphy vs Machine” Brian Cage wrote concerning the upcoming match with Buddy Murphy. “One of the hot matches I was looking forward to since the slew of WWE releases.”

Buddy Murphy vs Brian Cage

“Bout to own the spotlight, have the match of the night and def get my s–t in! One helluva return to the ECW Arena. On Saturday September 18th live from the 2300 Arena Worlds Collide! Secure your tickets now at battlegroundcw.com and witness live the epic clash of two forces that will come together in one incredible showdown.”

Buddy Murphy was released from his WWE contract back on June 2, meaning that he is still currently under the 90-day non-compete clause which ends on Tuesday August 31. Murphy would then be eligible to sign for the likes of IMPACT, NJPW, MLW or All Elite, who run the ALL OUT PPV event just a few days after his non-compete is up.

Chris Jericho Comments On AEW’s Attempts To License Songs By AC/DC & Van Halen

Chris Stephens
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AEW has been licensing music for some of its top stars recently. Orange Cassidy uses the Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind?” as entrance music and Jungle Boy now uses “Tarzan Boy” by Baltimora as well. According to comments made by Chris Jericho, however, attempts by AEW to license songs by AC/DC and Van Halen have not been successful.

Jericho commented on this recently while on the Two Man Power Trip podcast.

“We tried to get ‘Back in Black’ for our return promo after we attacked The Pinnacle in our dressing room,” Jericho said about the popular AC/DC song. “They wouldn’t even give us the time of day.”

“There have been other ones,” Jericho continued. “We wanted Van Halen right after Eddie [Van Halen] died, we wanted to use ‘Runnin’ With The Devil and they came back with $500,000. That’s just a polite way of saying ‘No fuckin’ way.’ AC/DC didn’t even come back with that, but then I see them on an Applebee’s commercial using ‘Back in Black.’ I guess they are fans of the baby back ribs. I thought the concept of back in black fit us; we’re coming back focused, serious, and darker.”

Tony Khan has previously spoken about difficulties in licensing music for AEW as well. He had the following to say during a post-show media scrum from Double or Nothing:

“You can’t just want to buy a song, you have to get responses and you never know who’s going to bite on it,” Khan said. “Sometimes they’ll make—sometimes people don’t even respond and they wait a long time to get back to you. In some cases, you’re really far apart on money.”

Update On John Cena & SummerSlam, “Argylle” Filming Commitments

Chris Stephens
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Last week it was revealed that John Cena has signed on to be part of a spy thriller film franchise titled “Argylle.” The first in 3 planned films in the franchise is set to begin filming in Europe next month.

Matthew Vaughn will direct an all-star cast including Henry Cavill, Samuel L Jackson, Bryan Cranston, Catherine O’Hara, Sam Rockwell, and Bryce Dallas Howard.

John Cena’s Status for SummerSlam

With filming on the project set to begin in Europe next month, there had been some speculation this could potentially impact Cena appearing at SummerSlam. According to comments on Wrestling Observer Radio, however, filming of the movie will not impact Cena’s planned role on the show.

“This is what I was told today, the movie thing is not a hurdle,” Dave Meltzer said on the show. “The belief is that it’s all going down, the match is happening,” Meltzer continued.

John Cena recently confirmed he is returning to WWE. During a recent appearance on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Cena said, “Those rumors are true. I’ll definitely be back in WWE, I just don’t know when. I haven’t had my last much and I can’t wait to have my next one.”

The 16-time World champion is rumored to be facing Roman Reigns in the main event of SummerSlam, which takes place Sunday, August 21st from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Becky Lynch Looks Jacked Ahead of Potential WWE Return

Jake Skudder
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‘The Man’ Becky Lynch looks absolutely incredible ahead of her potential return to WWE programming. The RAW Superstar is currently on maternity leave following the birth of her daughter in December 2020.

Lynch was the RAW Women’s Champion prior to leaving the company last year, having to give up her Championship to Asuka. The Japanese star won the 2020 Money In The Bank ladder match, with the briefcase actually containing the title rather than a contract for a title match.

With Becky Lynch leaving in such a manner, it gives her the opportunity to have a tailor made storyline for when she eventually returns.

Becky Lynch Nearly Ready To Return?

The current RAW Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley was not on the RAW brand when Lynch had to relinquish the belt, giving ‘The Man’ a fresh storyline and opponent should WWE wish to involve her in such a way when she does eventually return.

There’s currently no official word on when Becky Lynch is expected to return to the company, however she was on the cards for a segment with Bayley at WrestleMania 37 which never materialized.

There’s a very slim chance that the 8th woman to be named for the 2021 Money In The Bank ladder match could be the former Champion, however this is extremely unlikey.

Check out the image below to see how ‘The Man’ is looking ahead of a return:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CRPHDmLszF7

Maria Kanellis Responds To Triple H’s Comments About Female Wrestlers

Anutosh Bajpai
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Triple H’s comments about the best women’s wrestlers in the world wanting to join WWE has created some controversy. AEW President Tony Khan previously took exception to his remarks. Now Maria Kanellis has responded to them as well.

The former WWE star has taken up a new role after her return to ROH last year. She has taken up a position in the ROH board of directors. Apart from being an on-screen figure for the company, she is also helping the promotion in recruiting new stars and rebuilding their women’s division behind the scenes.

When asked about Triple H’s comments about the female stars during an interview with Inside The Ropes, Kanellis claimed that if The Game gets honest with himself, he will realize that his comments are not true:

“So I think. I think, of course, has to say something like that, he has to say that everybody wants to be in WWE because that is where he works and that’s what’s required. But I think if you were honest with himself, he would realize that they aren’t the only place to work anymore and for a lot of people, they’re not even the place that they want to work.”

Maria Kanellis then mentioned how they have women in the current ROH roster who have previously turned down offers from WWE. The ROH star explained that any company, however big or small can have the best wrestler in the world. She also claimed that some of the most memorable moments of her career had nothing to do with the promotion:

“There are great wrestlers everywhere and not all of them want to work for WWE. And after being there twice myself, I have to say that some of my most memorable moments in this industry had nothing to do with the big Stamford, Connecticut company, and it had everything to do with the people I was working with and the way that I felt working there.”

Apart from this, Maria Kanellis discussed Lana’s comments about women’s wrestling in WWE. The Ravishing Russian had said that the company made her feel like women’s wrestling was not as important as men’s wrestling. Kanellis explained why this is not true mentioning how women’s wrestling always draws big international audience.

Former WWE Star Was Backstage For ROH Best In The World

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Former WWE star Chris Hero better known to WWE fans as Kassius Ohno was backstage at ROH’s latest Best In The World PPV event.

According to John Pollock of Post Wrestling, the former NXT star was working as an agent on the event, though his status beyond the show is not known yet.

When asked about his presence, ROH COO Joe Koff confirmed that Hero was backstage and said: “Chris was there and is always home at Ring of Honor.”

Kassius Ohno is a wrestling veteran who has been part of the industry for over two decades. He has worked for promotions such as Chikara, CZW, PWG and more during his long career.

Hero has had a couple of stints with WWE. His last run with the company started in 2016. He stayed with the promotion until 2020, before being released during the coronavirus budget cuts last year.

He has an extensive history with ROH. His relationship with the promotion began during the 2006 CWZ invasion angle. He went on to have a long stint in the company and won multiple titles.

The ROH Best In The World event saw multiple big title changes including the crowning of a new world champion. You can check out a list of the titles that changed hands during the show here.

Drew McIntyre On Potentially Winning Money In The Bank

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Drew McIntyre was not able to beat Bobby Lashley for the WWE championship at the Hell In A Cell PPV. Per the stipulation of their match, he now cannot challenge for the title as long as Lashley is the champion.

Though he might earn himself an opportunity to face a different world champion if the Scottish Warrior is able to win the Money In The Bank match this Sunday.

During a recent interview with TVinsider, Drew was asked who he might cash in his contract on if he is able to win the bout. Replying to it, McIntyre mentioned how it will open up a lot of possibilities for him:

Winning the Money in the Bank ladder match does open up a lot of possibilities. The “Head of the Table” [Roman Reigns] is running through everyone. Karrion Kross is dominating in NXT.

Can I cash it in on Bobby Lashley?” asked Drew McIntyre, “There are a lot of questions. First things first — I have to win the big one.”

The former world champion also discussed how his goal was to walk out as the WWE champion in front of fans. Though he claimed that losing the title has made his character more relatable.

Drew McIntyre will be stepping in the ring with seven other superstars for the ladder match at the Money In The Bank PPV this Sunday. You can check out the updated card for the event here.

Buddy Murphy On His Post WWE Plans

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

Buddy Murphy was considered to be one of the most underrated stars in WWE. Now that he has been released by the company, a lot of people are looking forward to his next move.

The former WWE star recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet where he talked about things such as his new larger physique, his time in WWE and more.

During the interview, Murphy was asked where he might end up next. Replying to the question, he mentioned a couple of destinations he is interested in:

“I’m excited for the possibility. I think I could do some great stuff in IMPACT, I’ve got friends there like Sami Callihan. I’m pretty sure I wrestled like 9 dark matches on NXT with Sami Callihan in a row. Ring of Honor, some of my guys and my friends from back home are with Ring of Honor.

That excites me, being with some people that I used to ride the streets with in Australia. It’s exciting but it’s an unknown. I have just under 2 months left, so we’ll see what comes.”

Buddy Murphy On His Post WWE Name

Buddy Murphy was also asked about his post-WWE name. He said that he has thought about his new name and he will release that later as a big reveal:

“I’ve thought about it. I’ll probably release that later on as a big reveal, kind of like a package. I’m sure it’s going to get people that agree with it and people that disagree with it. You’re never going to win everyone and that’s the thing.

But I’ll probably release it, we have a project that we’re probably going to get to next week so I’m excited about that.”

Buddy Murphy was released from his WWE contract on June 2. His 90 days non compete clause with the company is expected to expire in early September. You can check out his full interview below:

Jora Johl Accepts Invitation To Join Hardy Family Office

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

High-flying AEW star Jora Johl has accepted the offer from ‘Big Money’ Matt Hardy to join the former world champion’s Hardy Family Office faction.

The Indian star made his debut for the promotion last month. After wrestling the young prospect during an episode of AEW Dark: Elevation, the former WWE star had offered him a position in his group.

Johl at the time had mentioned how Hardy was one of his heroes growing up and wrestling him was a dream come true. Though mentioning Hardy’s recent heel turn, Jora had claimed that he was struggling with the decision.

The star formerly known as Robo The Punjabi Lion, finally accepted the offer from the veteran before tonight’s Dark: Elevation episode with a promo.

Jora Johl said that he had been thinking about Hardy’s offer day and night. He is accepting the offer because it’s the only way to achieve his dreams:

The high-flying star made his wrestling debut in 2016. He had been competing in the independent circuit. He has wrestled for promotions such as Beyond Wrestling, Immortal Championship Wrestling, and more.

Jora Johl joins stars such as The Private Party, The Butcher and the Blade, and The Hybrid 2 in the Hardy Family Office faction.

WWE RAW Results (7/12): Final ThunderDome Show, Lashley Destroys VIP Lounge

Robert Lentini
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This week’s RAW was taped and was the final show of the ThunderDome Era. Sheamus returned from suffering a broken nose to defend the US Title against Humberto Carrillo. WWE Champion Bobby Lashley battled Xavier Woods in a non-title match. It was the final episode of RAW before WWE Money in the Bank this Sunday.

RAW Results (7/12)

  1. Xavier Woods def. Lashley
  2. Nikki Ash def. Asuka, Naomi, Alexa Bliss
  3. Ivar def. AJ Styles
  4. Omos def. Erik
  5. Sheamus def. Humberto Carrillo to retain the United States Championship
  6. Ricochet def. John Morrison in a Falls Count Anywhere match
  7. Rhea Ripley def. Natalya

Here are the takeaways from this week’s episode of WWE RAW:

Xavier Woods def. Bobby Lashley

Xavier Woods faced WWE Champion Bobby Lashley in the first match of the night. Kofi Kingston and MVP were ringside for the match. Woods got in some offense early but Lashley showed off his power and threw him over the top rope. Lashley followed Woods to the outside and stared at Kingston before bouncing Woods’ face off the steel steps as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Xavier connected with a Superkick and followed it up with a Tornado DDT. Woods hit a Dropkick and went for the cover but Lashley powered out at two. Woods applied Crossface but Lashley broke free with a slam. Lashley planted Woods with a Chokeslam and then sent him into the ring post.

Woods fell to the floor outside the ring but Lashley dragged him back inside to break up the referee’s count. Lashley connected with a Spear and stood over him. Woods then rolled up Lashley for the pinfall victory. After the match, Lashley stormed up the ramp as New Day poked fun at MVP ringside. Lashley left the ThunderDome but MVP claimed that the WWE Champion will be in the VIP Lounge later tonight.

Eva Marie & Doudrop Were Guests On Alexa’s Playground

Alexa Bliss was in her playground and talked about how much fun it would be to win the Money in the Bank contract. Eva Marie joined with Doudrop and asked Alexa to introduce her. Bliss said she liked Doudrop’s name and the two chuckled as Eva Marie stared at them.

Bliss asked Doudrop to describe her time on RAW in one word but Eva Marie interrupted. Eva claimed she was the reason they were victorious last week and insulted the playground by calling it dingy. Eva demanded that Doudrop leave with her and she waved to Alexa while walking away.

McIntyre Got Revenge On Mahal

Jinder Mahal came to the ring with Shanky, Veer, and Drew McIntyre’s stoled sword. Mahal said he took things too far with McIntyre and wanted to give the sword back and apologize. McIntyre showed up on the tron and told Jinder to cut through the BS because he knows he is lying. Mahal revealed that sword had been broken and apologized.McIntyre revealed that he still has the real sword and that the one in the ring is a replica. Drew then started stomping on Jinder’s motorcycle and booted it over to end the segment.

Nikki ASH Picked Up A Win

Nikki Ash, Naomi, Alexa Bliss, and Asuka battled in a Fatal 4 Way match tonight. Naomi hit Bliss with a Dropkick that sent her to the corner. Bliss battled back with an elbow to the face and a Crossbody for a one count. Asuka and Naomi teamed up and beat down Nikki in the corner.

Asuka and Naomi traded kicks and wound up connecting at the same time and fell to the mat. Alexa went for Sister Abigail but Nikki blocked it. Eva Marie and Doudrop started making their way down the ramp as Bliss & Nikki stared at them. Asuka sent Naomi out of the ring but turned around into a DDT from Alexa for a two count.

Bliss then waved at Doudrop and Eva got angry. Alexa started walking towards Eva and she retreated up the ramp. Alexa shouted at Eva and Doudrop attacked Bliss from behind. Doudrop sent Bliss over the barricade but she disappeared as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Asuka planted Naomi with a Running Bulldog for a two count. Naomi battled back and planted Asuka with a Suplex and then a Dropkick for a two count. Nikki connected with a Tornado DDT and went for the cover but Asuka broke it up at two. Nikki then hit Asuka with a Crossbody and went for the cover but Naomi broke it up this time.

Nikki connected with a kick that knocked Naomi to the ring apron. Asuka hit Naomi with a running knee to the face that sent her to the floor. Asuka went for the Asuka Lock but Nikki reversed it into a roll-up for the pinfall victory.

Ivar def. AJ Styles

RAW Tag Team Champions AJ Styles & Omos came to the ring as RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Styles blamed the Viking Raiders for costing him a spot in the MITB Ladder match this Sunday. Styles then faced Ivar in a singles match and Omos & Erik were ringside.

Styles went for a chop but Ivar shrugged it off. Ivar sent Styles to the turnbuckle and connected with a Cannonball for a near fall. Omos tried to get involved but the referee caught him. AJ capitalized on the distraction anyway with a boot to Ivar’s head.

AJ hit a DDT and went for the cover but Ivar powered out at two. Ivar battled back with a Back Body Drop and followed it up with a Splash. Styles hit a Pele Kick but Ivar hit another Splash for the pinfall victory.

Omos Dominated

Omos faced Erik tonight on RAW. Erik went on the attack early but Omos knocked him to the canvas with a lariat. Omos locked in a Bear Hug before launching Erik across the ring. Erik connected with a knee to the head but Omos bounced off the ropes and leveled him with a Clothesline. Omos hit the Chokeslam Bomb for the pinfall victory.

Sheamus Retained The US Title

Sheamus showed up in a mask and was annoyed about having to defend his United States Championship against Humberto Carrillo. Sheamus attacked Humberto during a commercial break backstage and left him laying. Damian Priest and Sheamus had a brief stare down before RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Humberto made his way to the ring and had the match. Sheamus won with a Brogue Kick right away. After the match, Sheamus attacked Humberto but retreated when Damian Priest made his way to the ring.

Ricochet def. John Morrison In A Falls Count Anywhere Match

Morrison connected with a Back Body Drop and followed it up with a Neckbreaker on the ring apron. Ricochet battled back with a German Suplex for a two count. The action spilled out of the ring and Ricochet sent Morrison over the barricade and onto the ThunderDome screens. Back in the ring, Ricochet connected with a Shooting Star Press after spring boarding off the ring post.

Ricochet slammed Morrison to the floor and hit a 450 Splash off the barricade but Morrison kicked out. Ricochet then hit a big 450 Splash off the top rope onto Morrison outside the ring as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, there was a ladder set up from the apron and the announce table. The Miz tried to get in Ricochet’s way but he leaped over him and hit a Crossbody for a two count. Ricochet hit a Hurricanrana on the stage and went for the cover but Morrison kicked out at two.

Ricochet and Morrison battled backstage and John hit a Superkick and a running knee before they returned ringside. Ricochet shoved The Miz’s wheelchair down the ramp but he did not crash. The Miz squirted Ricochet with the drip stick but then Riddle made his way to the ring on his scooter.

Riddle turned the wheelchair on it’s back and The Miz had his legs in the air. Riddle laughed at Miz as Ricochet connected with the Recoil but could not go for the cover. Ricochet slammed Morrison on the ladder and put him through it with a Splash off the top rope for the pinfall victory.

Charlotte Sent A Message To Rhea Ripley

Women’s Tag Team Champions Natalya and Tamina were interviewed backstage. Natalya said she has a plan to hold all three main roster women’s titles at once. Mandy Rose and Dana Brooke were laughing in a different room and Tamina was distracted by it. Mandy joked that she doesn’t like Natalya’s odds of beating Ripley tonight or winning the Money in the Bank contract. Dana Brooke added that she doesn’t like the odds of Natalya & Tamina retaining their titles. Tamina shoved Dana and told her she loves the idea of kicking their teeth down their throat.

Rhea Ripley then faced Natalya in a singles match. Ripley picked up the pinfall victory with the Riptide and posed over Natalya in the ring. Charlotte attacked Ripley from behind and got her in a Figure Four in the ropes. Flair vowed to take the RAW Women’s Championship from Ripley this Sunday at the PPV.

Lashley Vowed To Dismantle Kofi Kingston At Money In The Bank

MVP came down to the ring with the models for an episode of the VIP Lounge. MVP called Lashley to the ring and he took a long time. Lashley’s music finally hit and he made his way to the ring with a pissed off look on his face. Lashley told the models to leave and said Kofi Kingston was right.

Lashley stated that Kofi was right that MVP caused him to lose his edge. Bobby told MVP that this bullshit needs to stop now and it is back to business. Lashley added that the only thing he wants to do now is destroy every soul that tries to take the WWE Championship from him. Lashley then destroyed the VIP Lounge set and stared at MVP.

Lashley said he was going to rip Kofi Kingston in half and leave Money in the Bank as the WWE Champion. Bobby told Kofi to bring his family, friends, and the WWE Universe with him because he is going to dismantle Kingston. Lashley stated that he hopes Kofi is right to fight for his life on Sunday.

Title Match Moved To WWE Money In The Bank, Updated Card

Andrew Ravens
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WWE has added a new match to the Money in the Bank PPV as AJ Styles and Omos will defend their Raw Tag Team Titles against The Viking Raiders at the show. 

Fans may recall that the match was originally announced for next Monday’s Raw episode in front of fans from Dallas, Texas.

This week’s Raw saw Omos make his singles debut with a win over Erik while Ivar defeated Styles in singles action. This is where the match date was announced. 

WWE presents the Money in the Bank pay-per-view event on Sunday, July 18, 2021 from Fort Worth, Texas at Dickies Arena that will air on Peacock. 

Updated WWE Money in the Bank Card

  • WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Edge
  • WWE Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Kofi Kingston
  • Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match – Ricochet vs. Matt Riddle vs. John Morrison vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Big E vs. Kevin Owens vs. Seth Rollins vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
  • Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match – Competitors announced thus far: Asuka, Naomi, Alex Bliss, Nikki Cross, Liv Morgan, Zelina Vega, Natalya
  • WWE Raw Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair
  • WWE Raw Tag Team Champions AJ Styles and Omos vs. The Viking Raiders

News On Sonya Deville Returning To The Ring For WWE

Andrew Ravens
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Sonya Deville has not worked a match in nearly a year, but that could be changing soon. Fightful reports that “Daddy Deville” is expected to return to the ring soon, and it could be imminent as long as all things go according to plan. WWE’s creative team is said to be particularly hopeful that she’ll be back in action.

Deville has been seen training inside of the squared circle as of late. It should be noted that Deville has indicated in interviews that she’s happy with her current role as an on-air authority figure with Adam Pearce. 

Some within WWE have had glowing reviews of Deville, the handling of the last year, and the way she’s worked her role.

It was added there has been a significant push to have Deville involved in the Women’s Money in the Bank match. Something for fans to look out for is her working the contest as the report stated at one point, she was penciled in for it. 

Asuka, Naomi, Alex Bliss, Nikki Cross, Liv Morgan, Zelina Vega, and Natalya have qualified for the match thus far, which leaves one spot left. 

Deville was last seen in action when she worked a No DQ, Loser Leaves WWE match against Mandy Rose at last year’s SummerSlam. 

Update On When This Year’s WWE Draft Will Take Place

Andrew Ravens
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Fans will have to wait a little bit longer than expected to see what changes WWE has in place for Raw and SmackDown in the way of a Draft. 

Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men Pro Wrestling Podcast originally reported that this year’s Draft would take place on August 30th for Monday Night Raw and the second night on the September 3rd edition of Friday Night SmackDown.

However, Zarian reported today that the show has been pushed back by a month as the new possible dates for it are October 1st & 4th or October 4th & 8th.

The plan is still for there to be two nights so that way both Raw on the USA Network and SmackDown on FOX get a bump in the ratings. 

WWE has yet to announce the news but will do so when those dates get closer. NXT Champion Karrion Kross, Toni Storm, Blackheart, Scarlett, Odyssey Jones and former NXT North American Champion Bronson Reed have been brought to recent TV events for WWE officials to check out. 

Sneak Peek At The Rock In “Black Adam” Costume (Photo)

Andrew Ravens
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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has been preparing for months to get into top shape for his next role as “Black Adam” and in the last week of production, he gave fans a sneak peek of the costume. 

The Rock took to his Instagram account on Monday to share the photo. He also wrote the following in the caption: 

“On set. BLACK ADAM. This image of Black Adam from behind gives you a tactile sense of the absolute massive scale and size of our movie. You also see a little of the intricate and beautiful textured detail of Black Adam’s body suit. (this is not your typical DC or Marvel padded muscle suit) And finally you get a glimpse of the enormous and appropriate destruction.

As we all know, superheroes have a code of justice and don’t kill the bad guys. But, Black Adam does. The hierarchy of power in the DC UNIVERSE is changing. Antihero. Man in black. Protector of his people.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CROH7YVLD_F/

The director of the film will be Jaume Collet-Serra, who also worked with Rock for “Jungle Cruise.” 

This upcoming film will be a spinoff of Warner Bros. and New Line’s “Shazam!,” which premiered in 2019.  It will be released on July 29, 2022.

The official trailer for the film is below:

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