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Ex-WWE Referee Rita Chatterton Reveals Year-Long Role With AEW

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Rita Chatterton, the former WWE referee who accused Vince McMahon of sexually assaulting, was employed by AEW for a year, she has revealed. On the Power & Glory podcast, Chatterton recalled receiving the Trailblazer award from the International Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame, which led to her being contacted by Tony Khan.

“Tony Khan and I had a nice, long talk and I was under contract with him for a year. Very nice man. Gentleman. Very, very nice man, and that’s how I ended up getting back involved in wrestling.”

Though she was under contract with AEW for a year, fans never saw Chatterton appear for the promotion. On the podcast, Chatterton saw the funny side of being paid but not appearing.

“I was under contract with him for a year and I did absolutely nothing. I did absolutely nothing (laughs), and he wanted me under contract so I was under contract with him.”

Mario Mancini, who was also on the podcast, shared that Chatterton had a talent scout contract. Mancini, who helps out at the Paradise Alley Pro Wrestling school, would present wrestlers to Chatterton to potentially reccomend to AEW’s higher ups.

McMahon had always denied the allegations made by Chatterton but reached a mult-million-dollaw settlement with her in early 2023. At the time, McMahon’s team refuted the notion that this was a sign of an admission of guilt, but was instead McMahon dealing with facets of his past so he could focus on WWE. In January 2023, McMahon forced his way back into the promotion but stepped down in January 2024 due to Janel Grant’s lawsuit. McMahon has denied wrongdoing.

AEW Name Desires To Be Part Of John Cena’s Farewell Tour

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John Cena will compete for the final time in 2025, and AEW’s Tony Chimel hopes to be a part of the huge send-off to the WWE icon. Despite being contracted to AEW, Chimel told Donnie DaSilva and Jimmy Korderas on their HUGE POP! podcast that he would love to play a role in Cena’s goodbye.

They (AEW) are pretty free with their guys and I’m sure if — you know, I can talk to my bosses over there… I don’t think anyone would have a problem.”

While AEW are “pretty free” when it comes to allowing talent to work elsewhere, putting Chimel back on WWE programming could prove to be an issue. Since launching in 2019, AEW has proven to be WWE’s most fierce rival with both promotions often clasing in head-to-head battles.

Ricky Starks In NXT & Every AEW Name To Sign With WWE

Although WWE and AEW have been at odds, Cena could prove to be a bridge between the two companies. In 2022, AEW allowed several names on its roster to appear on WWE Raw via videos, congratulating Cena on the 20th anniversary of his WWE debut. It’s clear that Tony Khan holds respect for Cena, making Chimel’s potential role with WWE unlikely, but not impossible.

John Cena’s next match will come at Elimination Chamber 2025, where he hopes to win the Men’s Chamber match and earn a WWE Championship opportunity at WrestleMania 41. It remains to be seen if Chimel is allowed to play a part but no matter what, fans can expect a fitting send off for the WWE icon.

WWE 2K25 To Feature Nike, Jordan & Other Real-World Brands

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WWE 2K25 is set to hit shelves in March 2025, and the game will feature exciting branded items as part of a partnership with Nike. Nike products will be available in The Island, a brand-new open world playable mode exclusive to WWE 2K25.

In addition to Nike, brands including Jordan and the WWE Shop will bring a real-world flair to the video game, allowing players to personalize their look.

Brands confirmed for The Island include:

  • Chalk Line
  • DSYF
  • Free & Easy
  • iSlide
  • Jordan
  • MSCHF
  • Nike
  • Puma
  • StayCool NYC
  • Tuff Crowd
  • WWE Shop – A Fanatics Experience

The inclusion of real-life brands will help make WWE 2K25 the most realistic WWE game to date, with fans excited about the never-before-seen The Island mode. Any item unlocked in The Island will also be made available in the main game as part of the ‘Create A Superstar’ mode.

WWE 2K25’s The Island mode will be available to access once the game launches on March 7, and is only available for New Gen on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE 2K25 ahead of next month’s exciting release.

Sheamus Reunites With Former Teammate After AEW Release

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Sheamus recently reunited with his former teammate Miro known to WWE fans as Rusev after the latter’s departure from AEW.

The former TNT Champion was one of the names released by Tony Khan’s company earlier this month, ending his 5-year run with the company.

The Celtic Warrior seemingly reunited with the now former AEW star recently for a drink and he shared a photo with Miro from a pub:

The History of Sheamus And Rusev

Sheamus and Rusev have history together as both partners and rivals. It was the Irish star who Rusev defeated to win his first ever title in WWE, winning the United States Championship in a WWE Network exclusive match in 2014.

The duo also teamed together as part of the short-lived League of Nations faction also featuring Alberto Del Rio and King Barrett back in 2016.

The former WWE star however, has not been active in the wrestling world for over a year. His last match came at the 2023 Worlds End PPV where he picked up a victory against Andrade.

All kind of rumours have persisted as to why the company did not book the former TNT Champion for any shows since then. With Miro now a free agent, it’d be interesting to see if we get some answers to his AEW mystery.

Tiffany Stratton on WWE Title Win: “I Was on Autopilot”

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Winning a WWE championship is the dream of every wrestler, but for Tiffany Stratton, the moment was a blur.

The current WWE Women’s Champion reflected on her title victory in a recent interview on Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, revealing that she wasn’t sure if her Money in the Bank cash-in would work as planned.

“That night was high stress. I didn’t know if it was the perfect moment or not…

I ran out there and I was just on autopilot. I had no idea if the fans were even going to bite on anything,” Stratton admitted.

Stratton’s cash-in, which saw her seize the championship in dramatic fashion, could have easily gone wrong.

img 8117 1

While the Money in the Bank contract is a powerful tool, failed attempts have happened before—something she was keenly aware of in the moment.

“There was always that ‘what if?’ Like, I could have failed. It could have been unsuccessful,” she explained.

Luckily for Stratton, everything fell into place. The match-ending moonsault connected perfectly, securing her first WWE title.

“The moment I hit my moonsault and it landed perfectly and it was 1-2-3, I finally felt like I could really relish in the moment. It was so amazing, so surreal.”

Stratton’s championship reign is still in its early stages, but with her confidence growing and WWE’s biggest season ahead, it’s clear she’s just getting started.

Paul Heyman Reveals New 2K25 Mode Never Seen Before In WWE Games

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Paul Heyman has introduced a brand new online multiplayer mode for the upcoming WWE 2K25 video game dubbed ‘The Island.’

The Wiseman introduced the new game mode during the latest Sony State of Play presentation. The online open world experience seems to be similar to ‘The City’ seen in NBA 2K games, with up to 50 players being able to enter and interact with each other at once:

“With The Island, players enter an online environment filled with WWE-themed landmarks, quests, live events, and shops with up to 50 other players at a time.

The Island also offers deep customization, giving players the chance to personalize their MySuperstars like never before. As the first of its kind for the franchise, The Island is not just an addition; it’s a bold step toward the future,”

The preview footage also showed attractions based on popular superstars such as Roman Reigns and Rhea Ripley as well as an area titled the Hall of Legends.

This is not the only thing Heyman is involved with in regards to the upcoming game. The advocate will be providing introductions for all 2K25 showcase mode matches highlighting the various Anoa’i family members.

WWE 2K25 is set to release on March 14, with early access to players pre ordering the Deluxe editions from March 7. The new game mode will unfortunately be only available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles.

Roxanne Perez Eyes WrestleMania After Record-Breaking Royal Rumble Run

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Roxanne Perez isn’t just making history—she’s rewriting it. At the 2025 Royal Rumble, the two-time NXT Women’s Champion lasted a record-breaking 67 minutes, outlasting WWE’s top stars before being eliminated by Charlotte Flair in the final moments. Now, Perez has her sights set on something even bigger: WrestleMania.

Speaking on the No Contest Wrestling Podcast, Perez laid out an ambitious roadmap to the biggest show of the year.

“I’m going to go to Vengeance Day, I’m going to beat all three of those women and become a three-time NXT Women’s Champion,” Perez declared.

“Then, I’m going to go to Raw with my title and beat Raquel Rodriguez, win the Elimination Chamber, and go to WrestleMania to become double champion.”

It’s a bold plan, but Perez has a track record of turning dreams into reality. From becoming the youngest Ring of Honor Women’s Champion at 19 to winning the first-ever NXT Iron Survivor Challenge, she has consistently proven she belongs among WWE’s elite.

Her Royal Rumble performance cemented that. Entering early, she survived attacks from former champions and found herself face-to-face with Charlotte Flair in the final two. Though she came up short, the moment was a glimpse into the future.

“I don’t think the main roster girls are ready for me,” she said with confidence.

First, she’ll need to get past Vengeance Day on February 15, where she faces NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria, Bayley, and Cora Jade in a Fatal 4-Way match. But if Perez continues her rapid rise, her WrestleMania dream might not be far off.

Big E’s Message on Overcoming Adversity: “We Need Each Other”

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WWE Superstar Big E has always been known for his infectious energy and larger-than-life personality, but in a recent interview on X-Pod 97 with Mega Ran and Marcos, he opened up about the importance of community, resilience, and the overwhelming support he received after his severe neck injury in 2022.

For many, a career-threatening injury would be an isolating experience. But for Big E, the outpouring of love from friends, fans, and colleagues made all the difference.

“I had so much love, man. I never felt alone, never felt depressed, because I had this constant barrage of love and support from strangers, from friends, from people I’d never met.”

“I Got So Much Love”

Reflecting on what got him through such a challenging time, Big E emphasized the power of leaning on others.

“When I was going through my mental health struggles in college and beyond, I so often felt like a burden. I didn’t want to lean on others. But we need each other. We forget how much we need each other.”

He pointed out that simple gestures meant the world to him during recovery.

“Every text message, every call—I got so much love. I had so many people reaching out. Even Mustafa Ali sent me a Lego Seinfeld set. The IIconics sent me Edible Arrangements. It didn’t matter what it was—it was the thought that meant everything.”

Big E’s words serve as a reminder that no one has to go through hard times alone.

“We are meant to lean on each other. Life is not always going to be like this. It comes in waves—ups and downs. But when we’re down, having people there to pick us up makes all the difference.”

As Big E continues to explore new ventures in entertainment, including his work with Marvel and WWE’s Raw Classics on Netflix, his message remains clear: Strength isn’t just about muscle—it’s about the community that surrounds and uplifts you.

Major Leadership Shakeup at TNA Wrestling: Key Executives Depart

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TNA Wrestling underwent significant internal changes today. According to PWInsider, Anthony Cicione, who became President of TNA in February 2024, has departed from his position. At this time, no successor has been announced.

Additionally, a new executive has been appointed to oversee production and other aspects of the company.

As part of these changes, Josh Mathews, Senior Producer and Senior Director of Digital Media, and Christy Hemme, head of social media, have both left TNA.

Mark Brown is the new TNA Director, according to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful. Brown held a similar position previously for Ring of Honor.

These developments follow recent contract news within TNA. Former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander’s contract is set to expire othis weekend, making him a free agent.

Additionally, Jordynne Grace confirmed that TNA allowed her to exit her contract early, with her departure effective in January 2025. 

Ohio Woman Sues Hulk Hogan’s Beer Brand Over Severe Head Injury

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  • Lawsuit Filed: An Ohio woman is suing Hulk Hogan, Real American Beer, and a local bar after being struck in the head by a thrown beer can at a promotional event, suffering a severe injury.
  • Negligence Alleged: The lawsuit claims the event organizers created an unsafe environment by tossing full beer cans into the crowd, leading to medical expenses, pain, and permanent scarring for the victim.

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and his beer company, Real American Beer, are facing legal trouble after an Akron, Ohio, woman was injured at one of the brand’s promotional events.

Akron’s Fox 8 reports that Michelle Harlukowicz has filed a lawsuit against Hogan, his company, and a Medina, Ohio, bar after being struck in the head by a sealed beer can thrown into the crowd during an event on August 19, 2024. The lawsuit, filed on February 10, 2025, alleges negligence, arguing that Hogan and other event promoters created an unsafe environment by tossing full cans of beer to attendees.

Severe Head Injury from Thrown Beer Can

According to her attorney, Eric Tayfel, Harlukowicz suffered a deep wound on her forehead, requiring nearly 10 stitches and leaving permanent scarring.

“She had an open wound to her forehead,” Tayfel stated. “It was pretty big. She ended up needing a number of stitches to her head, and she’s going to have some permanent scarring from that.”

The lawsuit claims that Hogan or another event promoter threw the can from an estimated 50 feet away, striking Harlukowicz while she stood near the back of the venue. She reportedly had no warning and no chance to avoid being hit.

Lawsuit Alleges Negligence by Hogan, Venue

Medina Township Police responded to the incident, but no charges were filed as officers were unable to determine who threw the beer. However, the lawsuit holds Hogan, Real American Beer, and Thirsty Cowboys—along with its owner, Aaron Lind—responsible for failing to ensure guest safety.

“How does a responsible company allow full cans of beer to be thrown into a crowd of its guests?” Tayfel questioned.

Harlukowicz is seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

“First of all, we want some accountability,” Tayfel added. “He is still touring around hocking his beer. We certainly don’t want to have this happen to anyone else.”

Fox 8 reached out to Real American Beer and Thirsty Cowboys for comment, but neither responded.

Real American Beer and WWE Partnership

In January 2025, WWE and Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer entered into a multi-year partnership, expanding the brand’s presence within the wrestling industry. As part of the deal, WWE acquired a minority stake in the beer company, which launched in June 2024 and is now available in 20 U.S. states.

The partnership includes extensive branding integration, with the Real American Beer logo displayed on ring mat corners during Monday Night Raw on Netflix. Additionally, WWE provides promotional support across its digital platforms, which reach over 700 million users worldwide. WWE trademarks and Superstars also feature in retail promotions and point-of-sale displays, further solidifying the connection between the beer brand and professional wrestling.

Big E: I Had Never Seen Anything Done Like The New Day’s Heel Turn

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Big E recently opened up about his return to WWE and the fan reactions surrounding his storyline with Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods. Speaking on X-Pod 97, the former WWE Champion shared his excitement over the moment, emphasizing its uniqueness in wrestling history.

“I had never seen anything done like what we did in that ring before,” Big E said. “I can’t think of another turn that happened the way this one did. Ultimately, I’m really happy.”

The storyline has reignited interest in The New Day, sparking intense discussions among fans. While some have embraced the direction, others have taken to social media with divided opinions. Big E acknowledged the passionate reactions, even joking about how his personal posts now draw unexpected commentary.

“Now I got pro-Kofi and Woods trolls every time I post about Spider-Man,” he quipped.

The New Day’s Legacy and Future Evolution

Beyond the immediate fan reactions, Big E reflected on the evolution of The New Day and its place in WWE history. He emphasized the importance of change in the industry, noting that even successful acts must continue to grow.

“In this industry, you have to evolve. Even when you find gold, you can’t just stay on the same path,” he explained. “Once people love you and you get the chants down, you can keep coasting—but then that’s all you are, you know what I mean?”

The New Day
Photo: WWE

Despite their initial struggles, Big E remains proud of what he, Kingston, and Woods built together. He believes the latest developments have reignited excitement around his longtime partners, ensuring The New Day remains a central focus in WWE.

“We were three guys trying to save our careers. But now, for better or worse, the wrestling world is talking about those two again. I feel like a fire has been reignited.”

While Big E didn’t reveal specific plans for his own future, his comments suggest that his return could have lasting implications—not just for himself, but for the legacy of The New Day.

Catch Big E’s inteview on X-Pod 97 with Mega Ran:

“Set Crazy Goals and Commit” – Joe Hendry’s Relentless Mindset for Success

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Joe Hendry doesn’t just dream big—he delivers. The TNA World Champion has made a career out of setting seemingly impossible goals and making them happen.

From calling his shot on a WWE Royal Rumble appearance to setting his sights on a match with John Cena, Hendry’s approach is simple: go bigger than anyone expects and put in the work to get there.

Speaking with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri, Hendry shared the philosophy that fuels his relentless pursuit of success.

“Your goals better scare you. They better be so big that they scare you,” Hendry said. “They have to be something no one else has done before. It has to be scary, and scare you on a daily basis.”

For Hendry, that mindset has paid off time and time again. He told his students after last year’s Royal Rumble that he’d be in the next one—and he was. He declared he’d win the TNA World Championship—and he did. Now, he’s targeting a match with Cena, and he’s fully committed to making it happen.

Beyond just setting goals, Hendry believes constant improvement is the key to longevity in wrestling.

“I get better every month that I do this,” he said. “The match I had with Nick Aldis at Genesis was vastly superior to the one I had at Bound for Glory.

My performance in the Royal Rumble was miles ahead of my last multi-man match. I am not in my prime yet. Not even close.”

Whether it’s in TNA, WWE, or beyond, Joe Hendry’s confidence isn’t arrogance—it’s the product of years of backing up his words.

Watch Joe Hendry’s full interview with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri:

Ricky Starks Withdraws from Scheduled Match After WWE NXT Debut

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Ricky Starks has withdrawn from a scheduled independent wrestling appearance following his debut on this week’s WWE NXT.

Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling (TCW), based in Atlanta, announced that Starks will be unable to appear at Saturday’s live event due to “circumstances beyond their control.”

“Important Announcement: Due to circumstances beyond our control, Ricky Starks will not be in attendance on Saturday, February 15th, at the Tannery Row Ale House. However, you can still expect the same incredible evening of Georgia’s premier star-studded, action-packed, family-friendly independent professional wrestling that TCW Live has to offer! We will see you at the matches!”

Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling was founded in 200 by the late “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. The concept was to present old school Southern style professional wrestling on a local level, while serving as a training ground for wrestlers climbing the ranks in the business. After a 20-year hiatus, the promotion was relaunched in 2024 by QT Marshall and Dusty’s daughter Teil Rhodes, who serves as an authority figure.

If Starks is having to withdraw fro scheduled independent dates, that does not bode well for his reign as the new Defy World Champion which began a few days ago.

Ricky Starks wins Defy World Championship

Drew McIntyre Savagely Trolls LA Knight’s Over WWE World Title Gold

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Drew McIntyre is a proven master of social media trolling and has now set his sights on SmackDown rival LA Knight. On X (fka Twitter,) McIntyre used a viral absent tattoo meme to mock Knight’s lack of WWE World Championships.

McIntyre’s latest barb at Knight is just the latest interaction between the two. The Scottish Warrior was said to be furious at the 2025 Royal Rumble PLE as Knight disrupted the flow of the match and Drew’s elimination. Though things have cooled down behind the scenes, Knight made reference to ‘getting his stuff in’ during a promo against McIntyre on the latest WWE SmackDown.

This online dig by McIntyre has left fans excited at the prospect of a one-on-one showdown between the two Superstars. Though McIntyre was initially set to face Damian Priest at WrestleMania 41, an idea he reportedly opposed, this dig could be a sign that it’ll be Knight who faces McIntyre this April in Las Vegas instead.

Update On Drew McIntyre’s WrestleMania Plans After Royal Rumble Incident

Drew McIntyre has never shied away from using social media to play mindgames, as he did exactly that in his feuds with CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and others. With LA Knight now offically on the Scottish Warrior’s radar, fans should expect a full-blown collision between the two popular Superstars very soon.

Karyn Best Introduces New WWE Identity, Summer Sorrell

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In a stylish social media reveal, Karyn Best has announced her WWE persona as “Summer Sorrell,” accompanied by professional photos and Jay-Z’s iconic line “Allow me to reintroduce myself.”

The announcement marks the latest milestone in Best’s transition from track and field star to WWE-contracted professional wrestler. She’s set to be featured on the new WWE Evolve series, coming to Tubi starting March 5.

Summer Sorrell in WWE Evolve on Tubi
Summer Sorrell in WWE Evolve on Tubi

Before joining WWE, Best dominated high school track and field, setting 16 school records and collecting multiple titles including a state championship in the 300-meter hurdles and two USATF Youth National Championships in the 400-meter hurdles. She continued her athletic career at Cal State Fullerton, competing in events including the 60-meter hurdles and 400-meter dash.

Best’s journey to WWE began at tryouts during SummerSlam weekend in August 2024, leading to her joining the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida as part of the company’s new recruitment class.

The newly-minted Summer Sorrell is engaged to fellow WWE performer, Kale Dixon.

Josh Mathews Exits TNA After 10 Years

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Veteran broadcaster Josh Mathews has officially parted ways with TNA Wrestling, reported exlusively at Fightful Select. Mathews, who joined TNA in 2014, has been a prominent figure in the company’s broadcasting and production departments.

Upon his arrival in TNA, Mathews quickly ascended to the role of lead commentator, replacing long-time announcer Mike Tenay in December 2014. In 2021, Matthews finished his time as TNA’s main play-by-play announcer but would step in on occassion if the lead announcer was unavailable. Behind the scenes, Mathews took on significant behind-the-scenes responsibilities, including serving as a senior producer and the senior director of digital media.

While Matthews s best known for his time behind the commentary table, he did compete a handful of times for the promotion. His biggest match came at Slammiversary XV, where he and Scott Steiner lost to Joseph Park and Jeremy Borash. In 2018, Matthews even became Impact’s Grand Champion after being gifted the title by the recently-heel-turned Matt Sydal.

Matthews is the latest notable name to part ways with TNA Wrestling. In recent months, fans have seen an exodus of talent including Rhino, PCO, Mike Bailey, and Jordynne Grace, the latter of whom has since joined WWE. Josh Alexander’s contract with TNA is set to expire this week with this week’s Impact set to feature his final TNA match against Eric Young.

A veteran of the business for decades, fans are eager to see what’s next for Josh Matthews now his TNA tenure has ended. Whether it’s a return to WWE, where he worked from 2001 to 2014, or something else entirely, expect Josh Matthews to remain part of pro wrestling.

Tiffany Stratton: “A Pink Title Would Totally Fit Tiffy Time”

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Since cashing in Money in the Bank, Tiffany Stratton has made the WWE Women’s Championship her own, but could the title be in store for a serious makeover?

During her recent interview on Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, Stratton was asked if she’d consider customizing her title to match the pink aesthetic. The self-professed ‘Buff Barbie’ previously introduced a pink Money in the Bank briefcase after capturing the contract last year.

“I say never say never. I’m Tiffany Stratton—I’m an icon living, I’m a legend living. A pink title would totally fit Tiffy Time.”

Stratton’s fashionable transformation of the Money in the Bank briefcase certainly turned heads in 2024, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if she took the same approach with the Women’s Championship.

Pink WWE Championship

The question among fans is whether WWE would approve a change to the title design, which was introduced in 2023. Given Stratton’s rising star power and dedication to her brand, it’s not out of the question as she told fans “you’ll have to wait and see, guys!”

Stratton’s reign is just getting started, and with WrestleMania 41 approaching, the champ plans on holding her gold for a very long time. Whether a pink title is in the cards remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—it’s Tiffy Time no matter the color of the WWE Women’s Championship.

Tiffany Stratton Pitches Netflix Title For Women’s Mid-Card In 2025

Custom WWE Championships

Daniel Bryan John Cena
Daniel Bryan and John Cena had custom title designs in WWE. Could Tiffany Stratton be next?

Throughout WWE history, several iconic Superstars have personalized their championships, including the Ultimate Warrior (belt color variations), Bryan Danielson (Eco-Friendly WWE Championship) and John Cena (spinner versions of the United States and WWE Championships).

Others introduced their own titles entirely, such as like Ted DiBiase (the diamond-encrusted Million Dollar Championship) Stone Cold Steve Austin (Smoking Skull belt in 1998) and The Rock, who recently received the prestigious People’s Championship from Muhammad Ali’s wife at the 2024 Hall of Fame ceremony.


Bray Wyatt Speaks on The Undertaker’s Influence in Archival Footage

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For decades, The Undertaker played a key role in WWE both as an on-screen performer and as a backstage figure. Though his career in the ring is a thing of the past, the WWE Hall of Famer continues to influence wrestlers throughout WWE.

In 2015, Bray Wyatt feuded with The Undertaker in a clash of two of WWE’s darkest characters. In a video hyping up WWE LFG, Wyatt reflected on The Undertaker’s teaching nature in footage from before the passing of Windham Rotunda.

“He teaches everyone, everything. That’s just how powerful he is here. To say I learned one thing from him is an understatement.”

Wyatt was not the only name who had praise for the Undertaker in the video. WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque highlighted the importance of talent like the Phenom to “pass on their knowledge,” adding that it is key to the “survival of the business.” John Cena feuded with The Undertaker in 2003 and the pair would share the ring several in the subsequent years. A WWE icon in his own right, Cena described The Undertaker as “our never-ending, ass-kicking, undead phenomenon.”

Why The Undertaker Opposes John Cena Winning A 17th WWE World Title

Bray Wyatt tragically passed in August 2023, and new footage of the former World Champion is a rarity for fans to witness. As this video shows, Wyatt was among the many WWE Superstars who benefitted greatly from the work of The Undertaker.

Ric Flair Sees Mercedes Moné Returning to WWE: ‘Not Many Good Opponents Over There’

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WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair believes AEW star Mercedes Moné will eventually return to WWE and wrestle again as Sasha Banks.

Moné left WWE in 2022 due to creative differences with Vince McMahon. After a stint in NJPW, she signed with AEW, where she has remained undefeated since her debut in March 2024. She currently holds four championships and boasts a 15-0 record.

However, while speaking on Busted Open, Flair expressed doubts about AEW being the right long-term home for Moné. The Nature Boy argued that AEW lacks the world-class competition she’ll require to remain driven.

“Right now, I do think WWE is a better fit, yeah, because she doesn’t have that many good opponents over there in AEW.

Everybody’s good. To be in the business, you’ve got to be good, but to be great, that encompasses a whole different word. ‘Great’ and ‘good’—you know what I mean? And I truly believe she’ll end up over there back in WWE.”

Despite Flair’s prediction, Moné has downplayed any possibility of returning to WWE. She has previously stated that she is happy in AEW and does not envision a WWE comeback anytime soon.

Flair’s daughter, Charlotte Flair, recently made history by becoming the first woman to win the Royal Rumble twice and is now headed to WrestleMania 41. Given their legendary rivalry in WWE, Flair seems convinced that Moné and Charlotte will share the ring again.

For now, Moné remains focused on AEW, where she is scheduled to defend the TBS Championship against Harley Cameron this Saturday at Grand Slam Australia.

WWE Legends Demolition Edge Closer to Hall of Fame Recognition

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After years of estrangement, legendary WWE tag team Demolition appears to be mending fences with the company, potentially paving the way for their long-awaited Hall of Fame induction.

The iconic duo of Ax (Bill Eadie) and Smash (Barry Darsow), who dominated WWE’s tag team division in the late 1980s and early 1990s, held the Tag Team Championships for a combined 698 days across three reigns, including a remarkable 478-day stretch that stood as a record for nearly three decades.

Demolition WWE Alumni
Demolition’s Superstar Profile has been added back to the Alumni section of WWE.com

The relationship between Demolition and WWE became complicated following legal disputes, including a 1997 lawsuit over the rights to the team’s name and gimmick, and their involvement in a 2016 class-action lawsuit regarding concussion-related injuries. However, recent developments under Triple H’s leadership suggest a significant improvement in relations.

Barry Darsow revealed that WWE extended an invitation to the team for last year’s WrestleMania and Hall of Fame ceremony, though prior commitments prevented their attendance.

Bill Eadie has expressed optimism about their future with WWE, noting that while past politics under Vince McMahon’s leadership may have blocked their Hall of Fame induction, the new regime offers fresh possibilities.

With their profiles now restored to WWE’s Alumni section and improved communication between both parties, Demolition’s long-overdue recognition may finally be on the horizon.

Feds Drop Investigation Into Vince McMahon, Claims Lawyer

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Federal prosecutors in Manhattan have concluded their criminal investigation into former WWE CEO Vince McMahon, his attorney has claimed. Speaking to The New York Post, Robert W. Allen shared that a ruling from a three-panel judge determined whether McMahon broke the law by hiding allegations of sexual misconduct from two former two female employees.

The judge’s verdict does not mention McMahon by name but refers to a CEO who allegedly mislead company auditors to conceal allegations of sexual misconduct. Sources close to the situation told The Post that this was about McMahon, who paid $10.5 million to keep the two former employees quiet.

Allen shared on Tuesday, February 12, that the prosecutors have ended their probe without seeking indictments against McMahon by a grand jury.

“This is simply the result of an appeal of a procedural matter that was argued five months ago. We have been in consistent communication with the government since that time and understand, with no ambiguity, that the investigation has definitively concluded and will not result in charges.”

The end of this probe into McMahon’s activities comes after the 79-year-old billionaire paid $1.7 million to the Securities and Exchange Commission in January 2025 as part of a settlement over financial mistatements. At the time, McMahon dismissed the matter as “minor accounting errors” and shared that “I’m thrilled that I can now put all this behind me.”

Stephanie McMahon Weighs In On Vince: “I Know Where I Stand”

McMahon has been accused of sexual abuse and trafficking by Janel Grant as well as sexual misconduct by other women who have previously worked for WWE. McMahon stepped down from WWE in January 2024 over Grant’s lawsuit but has denied the notion that their relationship was not consensual.

Julius Creed to Coach on The Ultimate Fighter 33 with Daniel Cormier

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WWE Superstar Julius Creed has been named to Daniel Cormier’s coaching staff for The Ultimate Fighter 33, where Cormier will lead a team against fellow MMA veteran Chael Sonnen.

A former two-time NCAA All-American wrestler at Duke, Creed previously trained with Cormier ahead of his UFC 214 bout against Jon Jones.

Creed will now be part of a coaching team that includes Bob Cook, Rosendo Sanchez, Michael Chiesa, Tiago Beowulf, and John Wood.

The Undertaker Praises Ricky Starks After AEW Alum Debuts In WWE NXT

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Ricky Starks shocked fans by debuting in WWE NXT on the February 11, episode, close to a year after his final appearance for AEW. On Busted Open Radio, The Undertaker was a guest and shared his live reaction to Starks’ WWE NXT debut.

“I’ve seen him a few times here and there. I’ve always had great conversations with him. He’s such a good kid, such a respectful kid. So that [Starks’ NXT debut] caught me completely off guard.”

While The Undertaker and Starks have yet to share the screen, the Phenom recalled meeting Starks in the gym when training for his WrestleMania 32 Hell in a Cell showdown with Shane McMahon.

“I noticed this kid is there every day and [he] doesn’t say anything, really respectful. As the training went along and we needed different spotters and different help, he was always right there.”

During their meet-ups in the gym, Starks shared that he was trying to break into the business and The Undertaker gave him some pointers about “different things.” Years later, the pair would reconnect as Starks would train with Michelle McCool ahead of her appearance in a Women’s Royal Rumble match.

Starks’ arrival comes after a mixed relationship with AEW that saw the 2023 Men’s Owen Hart Cup winner go unused for months despite being cleared to wrestle. Now, Starks has joined those who’ve left WWE for AEW and is ready to make an impact in WWE NXT.

For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SEScoops.

Fans Fearing Change As WWE Avoids Mentioning Ricky Starks By Name

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Ricky Starks has arrived in WWE NXT, after a complicated exit from AEW that saw him go unused for close to a year. While Starks made a name for himself as part of Tony Khan’s promotion for years, WWE may have an entirely different name in mind for the former Tag Team Champion.

Fans who watched Starks’ WWE debut on the February 11, edition of WWE NXT may have noticed (or rather not noticed) his name. The commentary team did not mention Starks by name, and Starks himself did not say his name during his promo. Similarly, WWE’s upload of his debut on X (formerly known as Twitter) did not mention Starks by name.

Backstage at the Performance Center, Starks declared that “The Absolute One is here” but again opted not to say what his name is. Similarly, WWE’s tweet did not mention the name of the invidual in the video.

This post spawned several responses by fans, pleading for somebody to say Starks’ name so that they can confirm what he’ll be known as in WWE. One fan asked WWE “Bro say his name,” while another feared an unfortunate name change to ‘Trill London’ or some other WWE creation.

Starks’ arrival was also shared by WWE’s account on YouTube. Once again, the promotion didn’t name the person being spotlighted and instead referred to Starks in the description as a “new competitor.”

While the arrival of Ricky Starks is a huge get for WWE NXT, he may not be known as Ricky Starks for much longer. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Starks, or rather, whatever he’ll be known as going forward.

Ricky Starks In NXT & Every AEW Name To Sign With WWE

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Ricky Starks has become the latest AEW alum to arrive in WWE as the former tag champion debuted during the February 11, edition of WWE NXT. Starks is not the only AEW name to go on to call WWE home, as he follows in the footstps of the following talents:

Cody Rhodes: A founding member of AEW, Cody Rhodes made a high-profile return to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in April 2022, reigniting his quest for a WWE World Championship.

Jade Cargill: After a dominant run as AEW’s TBS Champion, Cargill signed a multi-year contract with WWE in September 2023. She made her in-ring debut at the Royal Rumble in January 2024 and is a two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.

CM Punk: Following a tumultuous tenure with AEW, CM Punk made a surprising return to WWE at Survivor Series in November 2023, marking a significant comeback after nearly a decade away from the company.

Penta: Formerly known as Pentagon Jr. in AEW, Penta debuted on WWE’s Raw in January 2025, securing a victory over Chad Gable. Becoming the Iron Man in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble demonstrates WWE’s faith in the masked star.

Shawn Spears: After his AEW contract expired at the end of 2023, Spears returned to WWE in February 2024, appearing on NXT and continuing his “Chairman” persona. He has since been involved in various storylines, including a notable feud with Ridge Holland.

Blair Davenport: Briefly part of AEW under her real name, Bea Priestley, Davenport signed with WWE in 2021. She won the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge in 2023 and moving to the SmackDown roster in 2024 before her recent release from WWE.

Lexis King: After making waves in AEW under his real name of Brian Pillman Jr., Lexis King signed with WWE in 2024. He debuted on NXT, where he is the reigning NXT Heritage Cup holder, and retained the cup on this week’s NXT against TNA’s JDC.

Andrade: Andrade returned to WWE in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match after a handful of years in AEW. He has since gone on to hold the WWE Speed Championship.

Many former AEW names have gone on to hold championships in WWE while some are awaiting their big break. It remains to be seen what direction Starks’ future takes in the company but his arrival has left fans excited to see what’s to come.