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NXT Stars Working Additional Main Roster TV Tapings (Updated)

Andrew Ravens
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Update: NXT stars Shotzi Blackheart and Scarlett are scheduled to work Monday’s Main Event tapings, which are held prior to Raw going on the air. The news comes courtesy of PWInsider. This will mark Scarlett’s first televised appearance for WWE.

WWE had wrestlers from NXT wrestle before Friday’s SmackDown broadcast from the ThunderDome in Tampa, FL.

Prior to SmackDown going on the air, NXT Champion Karrion Kross wrestled Slapjack, while Shotzi Blackheart took worked against Scarlett.

WWE producers were there to evaluate the match and determine the competitors’ readiness for the main roster.

Kross and NXT North American champion Bronson Reed have been wrestling at the main roster TV tapings over the past week. At last week’s SmackDown, Kross wrestled Dolph Ziggler while Reed faced off with Bobby Roode.

Kross and Reed wrestled on this week’s Main Event, which took place prior to Monday’s Raw tapings. Kross defeated Shelton Benjamin and Reed defeated Drew Gulak. Kross and Reed are on WWE’s short list for main roster call-ups, according to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

There is a good chance they will be moved to Raw or SmackDown when the next WWE Draft takes place after SummerSlam.

Edge & Roman Reigns Talk Trash Ahead Of MITB Showdown

Michael Reichlin
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Edge will challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship at WWE’s upcoming Money in the Bank pay-per-view.

The Rated R Superstar made a surprise return at Friday’s SmackDown. He laid out the Tribal Chief and later demanded a shot at Reigns. WWE officials granted his request and the match is set for July 18th

Some fans have questioned the logic of Edge being placed into the top feud on SmackDown after being away from TV for several months. However, Edge and Reigns are seasoned veterans. They are more than capable of building a captivating program as WWE returns to a road schedule.

Over the weekend, Roman Reigns tweeted:

Edge replied and reassured Reigns he’s ready to face him head-on:

WWE Money in the Bank takes place Sunday, July 18th from the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. The show will stream live on Peacock and the WWE Network.

Barry Windham Says His Nephew Bray Wyatt Hasn’t Been Used Properly In WWE

Chris Stephens
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Former NWA World Heavyweight Champion and WWE Hall of Famer Barry Windham was recently interviewed by Bill Apter. During the discussion, Windham was asked about his nephew Bray Wyatt and gave some surprising answers.

“I hope he makes the cut in WWE, we’ll just have to see,” Windham said when asked about Bray Wyatt.

Apter then noted that Wyatt has been an amazing performer. Windham would continue to say that he does not feel his nephew has been used properly in WWE, however.

“He has been (a great performer), he just hasn’t been used properly there,” Windham continued. When asked, however, Windham said he’s only seen some of the vignettes they’ve done with the Fiend.

“You know I haven’t really seen any of his matches, I’ve just seen a few of the little vignettes that he’s done.”

“He was always ready to be a wrestler growing up,” Windham continued to say about his nephew.

Back in 2018, Windham spoke to Hannibal TV about Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas.

“Bray is really doing well. He’s so good on the mic and Taylor (Bo) just needs a chance,” Windham said. “He’s really talented but to have him do that Bo-lieve thing for so long, it was just brutal.”

You can see the full discussion between Bill Apter and Barry Windham in the video below:

John Morrison Comments On Working With Scripted Promos In WWE

Chris Stephens
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John Morrison returned to WWE in 2019 after having been gone for 8 years. During his absence, Morrison was involved in many film projects. These included his own Boone: The Bounty Hunter film.

Morrison was recently interviewed by TV Insider and spoke about working with scripted promos in WWE.

“Sometimes it’s improv, but I would call it more collaborative,” Morrison said about the creative process he and the Miz have in WWE. “We’re not going to talk or say anything without producers, agents, writers, Vince [McMahon]. As soon as we get anything, we read it and talk to each other. We may say, ‘These lines are crap. Let’s fix it the best way we can and then go talk to them about our fixes.’ It’s not good to be thrown into an office and just say something is garbage.”

Morrisson continued to talk about what he feels is the best way to handle things if they end up with lines they don’t like.

“You may say, ‘You know what I like better is this other option.’ We constantly do that. A writer or Vince may agree and say, ‘This is better. But you know what would be even better? This.’ It then evolves…”

Morrison continued to say that they work hard but also have a lot of fun with the promos and backstage segments they do.

“Also, something that is lost on so many people is it takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and be affected by something. Just being cognizant about that, which I wasn’t during the first run. Doing improv and saying things. We are having fun, but we also work really hard on the promos. Everything you see on TV, it’s a process.” 

Tyler Breeze Comments On His WWE Release, His Future & More

Chris Stephens
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Tyler Breeze was one of several names released from WWE last week. The former NXT tag-team champion had been with the company for 11 years. During a streaming session on Twitch over the weekend, Breeze spoke about his release and time with the company.

“I was with the company for eleven years,” Breeze said. “An eleven year run in the biggest wrestling company in the world is unheard of, it’s a huge thing. Most people are there for three or four years. The fact that I was there for 11, fantastic, more than I could ask for.”

In terms of what comes next for the 33-year-old, that is not yet clear. Breeze said he has a lot still to consider.

“I’ll be streaming and we have a lot of stuff to figure out,” he continued. “A lot of stuff is still in the works. Yes, I’m setting up my Cameo again, I’m just waiting for them to approve it. There’s a lot of stuff in the air that we’re slowly figuring out. You guys will kinda know as I know. We’re trying to figure out a lot of stuff.”

Breeze also sounded noncommittal over continuing his wrestling career following his release from WWE. He stated that he has not yet made up his mind if he’ll continue.

“Will I continue my wrestling career? I don’t know, we’ll have to see,” Breeze said. “I haven’t decided yet.”

Breeze also confirmed that he has a 90-day no-compete clause with WWE.

H/T to Wrestling Observer for the transcribed quotes

Raven & Tommy Dreamer Discuss Their Epic Rivalry

Chris Stephens
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On the 100th episode of his House of Hardcore podcast, Tommy Dreamer spoke to his longtime rival, Raven. During the discussion the two on-screen enemies discussed a variety of topics including Raven’s early time in ECW.

“As soon as I saw (ECW), the first episode I saw I was like ‘this is the best TV show I’ve ever seen, I gotta to be on this,'” Raven said. “I called Page to call Paul E because I didn’t know Paul E. I didn’t know his number and I didn’t think he liked me anyway. I figured DDP has always been a good friend to me. He called Paul E and Paul E hired me to put you (Dreamer) over.”

Raven continued to say that Paul Heyman had a different understanding of the Raven character at first.

“He thought it was going to be like a comedy gimmick. He didn’t really get where I was going,” Raven continued.

Raven Says Paul Heyman Saw Himself Through Dreamer and Raven

Raven continued to say that once Heyman got the character, he started to see himself in it.

“Bookers always see themselves through a certain wrestler’s eyes. Like Vince sees himself through Lex Luger, The Patriot and the Million Dollar Man. That’s who he views the world through and Paul E saw the world through my eyes and (Dreamer’s) eyes.”

Tommy Dreamer and Raven Comment On Their Rivalry

Dreamer and Raven then spoke about his favorite parts about the rivalry.

“My favorite thing part about the Raven/Dreamer feud, was you were a very giving heel,” Dreamer said.

“I’m a giving lover too,” Raven interrupted to add.

“Behind the scenes, it was all about to make the match better. It wasn’t like you wanted to get yourself over,” Dreamer continued.

Dreamer and Raven then spoke about what each other meant to their careers.

“Without you there would be no Tommy Dreamer. You had an amazing mind for what I would say is layering a finish,” Dreamer continued.

“You were the perfect dance partner,” Raven said. “I couldn’t have had a better dance partner to open up my new career with.”

Dreamer and Raven went through much of their long feud with one another during the podcast. The full discussion between Raven and Tommy Dreamer can be viewed in the player below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOfFU9Jf230&list=PLiZDieKlGwDEoFY-CbQiKQMiarOQowlvS

Joey Janela Dealing With A Concussion

Chris Stephens
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Joey Janela has been on the shelf since wrestling Hangman Page on the go-home episode of Dynamite before Double or Nothing. Page defeated Janela on the show before then defeating Brian Cage on the PPV.

Janela appeared recently on the Wrestling Perspectives podcast and spoke about dealing with a concussion.

“I’ll be coming back soon. I’m dealing with an injury right now, a little concussion deal. S**t happens, everyone knows that, it’s wrestling. All sports, everyone gets concussions. I’ll be cleared from that in the coming weeks, maybe the coming weekend. I’ll be good and hopefully doing AEW stuff soon. Things were about to pick up for me right before [the concussion].” (transcriptions via Fightful).

Not long after his match with Page on Dynamite, Janela posted a video to Twitter noting that he will have to miss his bookings in June.

https://twitter.com/JANELABABY/status/1399495805921288194

Joey Janela In AEW

Before getting injured, Janela and Sonny Kiss appeared to be building an angle. Janela’s character seems like it might be going heel as he was making excuses for not coming out to help his tag-team partner. In the below backstage segment from Dark 2 weeks ago, Kiss seems to be done with their team. Janela then tried to blame Alex Marvez for his recent actions.

Britt Baker Responds To Critics Of AEW Women’s Division

Chris Stephens
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AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker was recently interviewed by Sporting News. During the discussion, Baker spoke about the improvement seen in AEW’s women’s division as of late.

Baker was asked about fans who are critical of how AEW has handled its women’s division.

“The match that I had with Thunder Rosa we put everything we had out there. We had the women’s eliminator tournament, we have so much to look forward to. We have so many talented females on our roster: myself, Hikaru Shida, Tay Conti, Red Velvet, Jade, Thunder Rosa, Anna Jay. It’s not something you can just turn a blind eye to anymore. We’ve improved so much, we’re putting out great content,” Baker responded.

Baker then continued to say that perhaps some of the division’s critics simply don’t want to like it.

“So, at some point you have to really look at yourself in the mirror and say: Do you not like the women’s division, or do you just not want yourself to like the women’s division?” Baker continued to ask.

Baker was also asked if she could shed any light on the 10th dentist who actually doesn’t recommend flossing.

“I do, but I’m sworn to secrecy,” the dentist answered.

Baker has a match coming up this Wednesday on Dynamite. She’ll team with Rebel to face Nyla Rose and Vickie Guerrero.

Update On Kevin Owens Taking Time Away From WWE

Chris Stephens
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Shortly after losing to Sami Zayn on the Hell in a Cell PPV, Kevin Owens took to Twitter to say he was taking some time away. Now, he’s scheduled to face Sami Zayn in a Last Man’s Standing match on next week’s Smackdown. The winner will qualify for the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match.

What is going on with Kevin Owens possibly taking time away from WWE was addressed recently on Wrestling Observer Radio.

“I asked ‘what’s up with Kevin? Is he hurt? And it’s like ‘No, he asked for personal time off,'” Meltzer said on the show. “I was told that specifically.”

“Well, he got a week off!” said Bryan Alvarez.

Why Owens seemed like he was taking time away but now has a match scheduled for next week is not immediately clear.

“This booking is giving me a headache. Trying to decipher this booking, it doesn’t work,” Meltzer continued.

Owens also noted in the below Tweet that he “can’t stay away for very long.”

Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, and the Montreal Canadiens

As Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn square off next week on Smackdown, their hometown Montreal Canadiens will be in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals. This is the first time the team has made it to the finals since 1993. A few months after the Canadiens beat the LA Kings in the finals that year, the Quebecers (Jacques Rougeau and Pierre Carl Ouellet/PCO) won the WWF tag-team championships.

Aleister Black (Tommy End) Announces Sponsorship With Hayabusa

Chris Stephens
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Aleister Black has announced that he’s signed a sponsorship deal with combat sports apparel and equipment company, Hayabusa. Black took to Twitter to announce the news yesterday.

“Only have so many characters that I can type but as of today I am officially sponsored by @hayabusacombat. Which ironically was the name of one of my favorite wrestler growing up. More to come as I will give some cool stuff away for you hip kids that hit bags and pads,” he Tweeted.

Next Stop For Aleister Black/Tommy End

Where Aleister Black/Tommy End ends up next is something many fans are wondering about. According to comments made by Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio last week, he’s likely headed to AEW.

“Unofficially, because you are not allowed to negotiate and all that but I certainly have heard at one point not many days ago to expect him in AEW,” Meltzer said. “Officially, there’s no deal and there can’t be a deal until end of August, I think.” 

During an appearance on Oral Sessions with Renee Paquette, he mentioned wrestlers he hopes to face in his post-WWE career.

“I want to get in the ring with Moose, Callihan, Mox, Omega, Chris Daniels. My god. There is such an array of crazy talent. I think Jungle Boy is great. Hobbs, I think Hobbs is awesome. Brian Cage, Brody King from Ring of Honor. Homicide, I would love to get in there with Homicide, I think Homicide is the OG, I love Homicide, tons of respect. Eddie Kingston is another one.”

Carmella Reveals Huge Praise from Vince McMahon Regarding Her Promo Ability

Jake Skudder
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WWE SmackDown Superstar Carmella recently appeared on the Out of Character podcast with Ryan Satin. ‘Mella discussed a number of topics on the show, specifically her two Money In The Bank briefcase wins, including in the first ever MITB Women’s match in history.

“I was super excited. At that point in my career, I had never won a title and thought it was something that would solidify me as making history” Carmella began, discussing how she won the first ever Women’s MITB match.

“Even though I wasn’t the one grabbing the briefcase and I knew that would be very controversial, but I thought even better that it’s controversial because people would be talking about it” Carmella revealed. “It was trending on Twitter for a few days because people were so upset.”

Carmella on Vince McMahon

In the first ever MITB match for the Women’s division, Carmella was joined ringside by James Ellsworth. Ellsworth would actually grab the briefcase and throw it to Carmella, meaning that the first person to ever grab the Women’s briefcase…was a man.

Carmella would then reveal that Vince McMahon was quick to praise her once she started cutting promos following her big MITB win. “The SmackDown after winning, I cut a promo and I going out there and going, ‘This is my opportunity. Let me go out there and kill it.’”

“I came back through the curtain and Vince was so complimentary to me about my promo that night and was like, ‘Some of my top guys can’t even cut a promo like that’” Carmella revealed. “So I was just so excited and it ended up hat I won it again. I think it really propelled my career.”

Eddie Kingston Shoots on WWE Following This Week’s AEW Dynamite

Jake Skudder
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AEW star Eddie Kingston had some choice words for WWE when speaking to fans following this week’s episode of Dynamite. The former IMPACT/PROGRESS star referred to the ‘other channel’ whilst cutting a ‘shoot’ promo after cameras stopped rolling for the crowd inside Daily’s Place.

“The competition sometimes doesn’t want to hear their fans” Eddie Kingston began when speaking to the fans. “Oh, I guess I’m burning another bridge — surprise. Ladies and gentlemen, AEW cares about their fans.”

“Because we are not here just to get ourselves a paycheck” Kingston admitted. “We’re here every week  — with you people, without you people — and we come out here and we bust our asses. We love professional wrestling!”

Eddie Kingston on WWE

“You saw a match between Kenny Omega and my dude, Jungle Boy, that you will not see on the other channel. And you will not see legends who are respected on the other channel. You will not see people like me and my best friend (Penta) on the other channel” Kingston stated.

“And you will not see the heart that everybody in that locker room has on the other channel. Ladies and gentlemen, I’m was supposed to send you home happy, but I’m speaking from my heart. The bottom line is this: We are AEW. We will see you Wednesday, and we want to hear you!” Eddie Kingston then concluded.

You can check out the full promo below via Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net:

MJF: “Video Games Are For Virgins, But Wrestling Video Games, That’s For Winners”

Jake Skudder
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Leader of AEW’s The Pinnacle group MJF recently appeared on the Game Marks podcast. Game Marks is a show based around classic pro wrestling video games including interviews with wrestling personalities discussing some of their favorite games from past generations or current.

MJF would reveal that he did play games such as Day of Reckoning 2 when he was younger, although he now doesn’t have time for video games as they’re for ‘virgins.’

“I always thought that I was going to be this dark, brooding, black face paint around the eyes, Kane-like, Legion of Doom-esque character” MJF began on the podcast, describing the sort of CAW he would create and what he saw himself being as a pro wrestler when he finally got to live his dream.

‘Complete F*cking Losers’

“The character name was Mad Max and I remember, I always gave my guy a red mohawk with long tights, black boots, and a skull with a big leather jacket” The Pinnacle leader would continue.”

“Then, I grew out of being a complete f*cking loser and I realized I should just be myself and start making Maxwell Jacob Friedman, a fun-loving guy that everyone likes” MJF jokingly added.

Maxwell Jacob Friedman would finish by taking a shot at video game players in general, saying “video games are for virgins, but wrestling video games — that’s for winners.”

“Okay, I think anybody can agree on that” MJF noted. “But regular video games like ‘Zelda’, you know, or Cuck Central part two, or whatever the f**k people are playing nowadays, I don’t know, I’m not a simp.”

AEW’s wrestling game for consoles is currently in development and will be released for the latest generation of consoles, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

AEW Dynamite Results (6/26): Kenny Omega vs. Jungle Boy For AEW Title, Konnan Appears

Robert Lentini
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AEW Dynamite aired on Saturday this week from Daily’s Place in Jacksonville. Kenny Omega defended the AEW Championship against Jungle Boy in the main event. Tony Schiavone interviewed Tully Blanchard and Konnan in the ring during tonight’s episode of Dynamite as well.

Dynamite Results (6/26)

  1. Hangman Page def. Powerhouse Hobbs
  2. Matt Sydal def. Dante Martin
  3. Ethan Page def. Bear Bronson
  4. Kris Statlander def. The Bunny
  5. Kenny Omega def. Jungle Boy to retain the AEW Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Hangman Page Picked Up A Win

Powerhouse Hobbs faced Hangman Page in the first match of the night. Hobbs started off the match in control and sent Page to the corner. Hobbs hit Page with some shoulder thrusts to the midsection but Hangman was able to battle back with some strikes of his own.

Hangman set up for the Buckshot Lariat but Hobbs saw it coming and rolled out of the ring. Page followed him out of the ring but it backfired as Hobbs sent Hangman into the barricade. The action returned to the ring and Hobbs connected with a Suplex. Hangman got busted open after Hobbs threw him into the ring post.

Page connected with a Splash and followed it up with a Moonsault for a near fall. Hook and Ricky Starks made their way ringside and Hobbs asked for the FTW Championship. Brian Cage joined the party and ripped his title away. Cage chased Ricky Starks to the back as Hangman capitalized on the distraction with a German Suplex. Page then hit Deadeye for the pinfall victory.

FTR Attacked Konnan

Tony Schiavone interviewed Tully Blanchard and Konnan in the ring on this week’s Dynamite. Tully said Konnan can go first due to his legendary status. Konnan said he is not intimidated by Blanchard’s mind games and Santana & Ortiz aren’t afraid of Tully & FTR either.

Konnan said that FTR are not the same as Santana & Ortiz because they grew up with gangs, trying to find food, and avoiding police. Konnan joked that Tully should learn some Spanish so he can speak with his grandchildren. Tully’s daughter (Tessa Blanchard) is married to professional wrestler Daga. Konnan added that Tully may need work after they defeat FTR and suggested that he go to Walmart and become a greeter.

A couple guys in masks showed up behind Tully and Konnan as footage of Santana & Ortiz beaten down backstage was shown. They were revealed to be FTR and they attacked Konnan. FTR beat Konnan down and hit him with a Piledriver. Blanchard shouted at Konnan and FTR taunted him as well to end the segment.

Matt Sydal def. Dante Martin

Matt Sydal faced Dante Martin tonight on Dynamite. Before the match, Vickie Guerrero introduced Andrade El Idolo. Vickie said they have a huge announcement to make but was interrupted by Sydal’s entrance music. Mike and Matt Sydal made their way to the ring as Vickie held Andrade back. Vickie and Andrade then exited as the match began.

Dante hit a Dropkick but Sydal responded with a boot to the face. Matt kept Dante on the canvas but Martin battled back with a Moonsault for a near fall. Both wrestlers battled on the top turnbuckle and Matt sent Dante to the mat. Sydal connected with Double Knees and went for the cover but Dante was able to kick out at the last moment.

Martin hit a Stunner and went for the cover but Sydal kicked out at two. Martin went for a flip but landed on his injured leg. Sydal quickly capitalized with the Lightning Spiral for the pinfall victory.

Guevara Sent A Message To MJF

Alex Marvez interviewed MJF, Wardlow, and Shawn Spears backstage during tonight’s show. MJF didn’t understand why people had an issue with his attack on Dean Malenko and claimed that Dean is a sick old man that doesn’t belong in a place as dangerous as professional wrestling. MJF added that he should be thanked for giving Dean an early retirement.

Chris Jericho and Jake Hager interrupted but The Pinnacle members beat them down. Sammy Guevara made the save as the brawl made it’s way to the ring and Spears was about to crush Jericho’s arm on the mat. Guevara hit Spears and Wardlow with the chair and vowed to beat MJF on next week’s Dynamite.

Ethan Page Challenged Darby Allin To A Coffin Match

Ethan Page battled Bear Bronson tonight on Dynamite. Scorpio Sky and Bear Boulder were ringside for the match. Page got in a cheap shot early and Bronson responded with a series of strikes. Bronson connected with a Powerslam and sent Page out of the ring. Bronson went for a Suicide Dive but Scorpio hopped in the way and took the move.

Page claimed that Boulder hit him with a cheap shot and while the referee was distracted Scorpio caught Bronson with a cheap shot. Back in the ring, Bronston hit a Spinebuster and went for a Senton but Ethan got out of the way. Bronson followed it up with a massive Sidewalk Slam for a two count. Page connected with a Superplex and both men fell to the floor. Scorpio Sky hopped on the apron but Boulder dragged him off. The referee was distracted by Sky and Boulder fighting outside the ring and Page hit Bronson with a low blow.

Page followed it up with Ego’s Edge for the pinfall victory. After the match, Scorpio Sky boasted about Page’s win and Ethan said he is not stupid. The crowd chanted “yes, you are!” as Page turned his attention to Darby Allin. Page said he wants to be in the nail in Allin’s coffin and challenged him to a Coffin Match on July 7th (Road Rage) in Miami.

Kris Statlander def. The Bunny

Krist Statlander battled The Bunny on this week’s Dynamite. Kris dominated early and showed off her power with a couple of Arm Drags. The Bunny responded with a slap to the face and then a Superkick as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, The Bunny was in control and sent Statlander out of the ring. Statlander connected with a Powerslam and both women were down. Back in the ring, Statlander hit a Blue Thunder Bomb but The Bunny kicked out at two. The Blade distracted the referee and tried to throw brass knuckles to The Bunny. Orange Cassidy intercepted it and stuck them inside his pocket. Kris then hit the Big Bang Theory for the pinfall victory.

Kenny Omega Retained The AEW Title

Kenny Omega put his AEW Championship on the line against Jungle Boy in the main event of this week’s Dynamite. Jungle Boy’s family were ringside for the match.

Marko Stunt and Luchasaurus got thrown out of ringside early and the referee decided to even everything out and sent the Good Brothers to the back as well. Omega and Jungle Boy tied up in the middle of the ring. Kenny and Jungle Boy traded chops and then Jungle Boy hit an Arm Drag that sent the champion out of the ring. Omega took back control and sent Jungle Boy into the barricade as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Jungle Boy hit Omega with a Dropkick to his knee. Jungle Boy sent Omega to the outside and hit two Suicide Dives. Jungle Boy went for a third but Omega rolled back into the ring. Jungle Boy hit a Slingshot DDT and then flipped onto Omega back on the outside.

The action returned to the ring and the AEW Champion took control with a Superplex. Kenny went for the V-Trigger but Jungle Boy blocked it. Omega went for a Snap German Suplex but Jungle Boy was able to land on his feet. Omega then connected with the V-Trigger, a Snap Dragon Suplex, and another V-Trigger.

Omega set up for the One Winged Angel but Jungle Boy countered into a reverse Hurricanrana. Kenny hit a couple more V-Triggers but couldn’t keep Jungle Boy down. Jungle Boy applied the Snaretrap as Good Brothers made their way back to the entrance ramp. Jurassic Express and Frankie Kazarian met them in the middle and the two squads battled to the back.

Omega broke free and hit another V-Trigger but Jungle Boy bounced off the ropes and responded with a Clothesline. Omega shrugged that off and hit a Brainbuster for a two count. Another V-Trigger from the champion and he went for the One Winged Angel again but Jungle Boy countered into a cover for a two count.

Jungle Boy got the Snaretrap locked in again but Omega broke the hold by raking the eyes. Omega and Jungle Boy battled on the top turnbuckle again. Omega slipped under and bounced Jungle Boy’s face off the top rope. Omega connected with a Tiger Driver 98 for a near fall but quickly hit the One Winged Angel for the pinfall victory. Kenny Omega is still the AEW Champion.

After the match, Omega set up with the title and was about to hit Jungle Boy but Christian Cage made the save. Omega retreated out of the ring but Matt Hardy and Private Party showed up. Matt went for the Twist of Fate but Christian was able to block it. Christian went for the Killswitch but AEW Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks broke it up with a couple Superkicks. They then celebrated to close this week’s show.

Marina Shafir Releases Statement On WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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4 Horsewoman of MMA Marina Sharfir was one of several names WWE released yesterday. News of her release is said to have come as bit of surprise as there were reportedly plans in place for her to be part of upcoming storylines.

“It’s a cold world. Good thing I was born in Moldova. Thank you to everyone who reached out and thank you for the opportunity @WWENXT. I will continue to be the hardest worker in the motherfucking room, but now i need to be keen. I’m not done,” Shafir Tweeted.

Marina Shafir in WWE

The “Supernova from Moldova” signed with WWE in 2018. Shafir’s MMA career finished with a 1-2 professional record after having won 5 straight as an amateur. Her last MMA fight was in July of 2015. She’d marry Roderick Strong later that year and she gave birth to their first child the following April.

WWE announced that her and Jessamyn Duke signed in May of 2018. She lost her final WWE match back in January when her and Zoey Stark were eliminated in the 1st round of the Dusty Rhodes Classic. Most of Shafir’s WWE matches were untelevised. From 2018 to 2021 she only wrestled 8x on WWE programming.

Bollywood Boyz Share Message From Bret Hart Following WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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The Bollywood Boyz/Singh Brothers were two of several releases made by WWE yesterday. They made their WWE debuts in the 2016 Cruiserweight Classic and then were packaged together with Jinder Mahal in 2017. They would be by his side as he won the WWE Championship that year.

The brothers from Burnaby, British Columbia took to Twitter today to share some comments they received from Bret Hart following their release.

The week before their WWE release, the brothers Tweeted out a picture of Bret Hart wearing their t-shirt.

Before signing with WWE, the Bollywood Boyz competed for TNA’s India based promotion, Ring Ka King in 2011. They also performed for Jeff Jarrett’s Global Force Wrestling promotion in 2015. They won the promotion’s tag titles that same year. Between the two of them they are also 9x WWE 24/7 title-holders. Sunil has held the title 4x and Samir has held it 5x.

“All the bumps, torn ACL’s, dislocated shoulders, it’s all been worth if for the last 5 years. And how ironic, we finished our last match with a shoulder hanging out of socket It’s fitting we got fired while showing up for wrestling training – we love what we do, with a passion,” the team Tweeted out following their release.

Bayley, Amanda Huber & More Comment On Tyler Breeze’s Release

Chris Stephens
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Tyler Breeze was one of several members of the NXT brand to be released yesterday. The 33-year-old had been with the company since 2010. Several people connected to Breeze have commented on his WWE career and release on social media recently.

Bayley had the following to say regarding Breeze:

“Breeze spent so much time teaching me things in the ring, watching my matches, little details, character work, (and later teaching me in LIFE) that I would literally write WHAT WOULD BREEZE DO on my wrist for my matches,” she Tweeted.

Amanda Huber also spoke about Breeze on Instagram. She mentioned how Breeze was one of the only people who knew from the beginning when Brodie Lee first got sick. Amanda wrote a touching note about how much Breeze’s friendship has meant to her family.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQkXsHkBy7Z/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=4007e7b2-11b8-4fb7-8a62-1048fe444c92

Breeze and Xavier Woods have also both posted about the friendship they have shared throughout their WWE careers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQkJxpTM58H/?utm_medium=copy_link

“When I met @mmmgorgeous we were in FCW. We were cool but ended up both being injured once and we would keep each other from going insane by waking up and playing borderlands 2 online together. Through this video game we realized that we were the ying to the others yang.”

Universal Title Match Made Official For Money In The Bank

Chris Stephens
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0

WWE has made the Universal Title match at Money in the Bank official. After Edge returned last night on Smackdown, a title match between him and Roman Reigns on the PPV was made official during Talking Smack.

During the Talking Smack broadcast Seth Rollins was a guest and was not happy about Edge being granted the title shot. Rollins stormed off of the set in response.

Talking Smack aired footage that took place immediately following Smackdown involving Edge confronting Adam Pearce. Edge told Pearce he wants the match that should have happened at WrestleMania and was then granted it.

Updated Money in the Bank Card

The updated card for Money in the Bank is as follows:

  1. WWE Championship
    Bobby Lashley (c) vs Kofi Kingston
  2. RAW Women’s Championship
    Rhea Ripley (c) vs Charlotte Flair
  3. Men’s Money in the Bank 
    John Morrison vs. Ricochet vs. Riddle vs. Big E vs TBD
  4. Women’s Money in the Bank
    Asuka vs. Naomi vs. Nikki Cross vs. Alexa Bliss vs. Carmella vs TBD

The event is scheduled for July 18th from the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. It is scheduled to be the 12th such PPV in the Money in the Bank lineage dating back to 2010.

Trent Shares Photo From Neck Fusion Surgery

Chris Stephens
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Trent from the Best Friends took to Twitter today to share post-surgery photos. Evidently, the AEW star had neck fusion surgery recently. He’s been out of action for over 2 months. His last match was on April 21st when he faced Penta El Zero Miedo on Dynamite. There is currently no timetable for his return.

Trent had actually only been back in action for a few weeks after missing 4 months due to a torn pec. He missed from December 16th to April 7th due to that injury.

Trent and the Best Friends In AEW

Mainly due to Trent’s injuries, the Best Friends have spent only 1 week in the AEW top-5 tag-team rankings this year. They were ranked on January 6th, 2021 but haven’t been back in the top-5 since. They’ve only wrestled two 2-on-2 tag matches and both were on Dark: Elevation. The last time the Best Friends challenged for the AEW tag-team titles was in October. They dropped a title match to FTR on the October 14th, 2020 Dynamite show.

As for the other members of the Best Friends squad, Kris Statlander is currently ranked #4 in her division and has a match with the Bunny tonight on Dynamite. Niether Orange Cassidy or Chuck Taylor have matches upcoming on the schedule. Cassidy beat Cezar Bononi last week in singles competition and is currently ranked #3 in his division, however.

Several WWE Performance Center Recruits Receive New Ring Names

Michael Reichlin
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Several recently-signed WWE Superstars have received new ring names.

According to the Roster section of the WWE Performance Center website, the following changes have been made:

  • Harlem Bravado is now Andre Chase
  • Drew and Jacob Kasper are now Brutus and Julius Creed
  • Avery Taylor is now Jacy Jayne

The United States Patent & Trademark Office database shows that WWE filed to trademark all four ring names earlier this month (June 11th).

Julius Creed (Jacob Kasper)

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Hopefully all four of these talented athletes have bright futures in WWE. The company has high hopes for Julius Creed (Jacob Kasper) in particular, a two-time All American heavyweight wrestler from Duke University.

Last October, former WWE agent Gerry Brisco told ESPN that Kasper reminds him of a young John Cena.

“In my nearly 50 years in the wrestling business, I have seen only a few wrestlers who have such powerful personalities that when they come into a room, everyone there knows that person has arrived,” Brisco said. “Jacob Kasper has that type of personality, and he reminds me in many ways of a young John Cena.”

Nikki Cross Reacts To WWE Releasing Her Husband Killian Dain

Jake Skudder
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WWE Superstar Nikki Cross took to social media to react publicly to her husband Killian Dain being released from WWE yesterday.

Dain had been part of the NXT brand over the past year, where he was teaming with Drake Maverick. The duo had adopted an ‘odd couple’ type of gimmick, with Maverick of course being the far smaller of the pair and more of comedy type character.

“The whole world is waiting for you my love” Nikki Cross tweeted in reaction to Killian Dain being released. “I have seen your talent, your experience, your versatility, your work, your passion, your dedication, And your heart, first hand and up close.”

“I have the best seat in the house, I can’t wait to watch you unleashed. My man [heart emoji]” Cross would conclude.

Nikki Cross on Killian Dain

Nikki Cross and Killian Dain were both previously part of the Sanity stable in NXT. The group had a successful run on the gold and black brand, but notably they were underutilized and discarded quite quickly on the main roster of WWE.

With Dain now gone, Nikki Cross remains the only member of Sanity still contracted with WWE, as Eric Young and Alexander Wolfe were also previously released from the company.

Prior to signing with WWE, Killian Dain/Big Damo was a mainstay on the European independent scene, topping the card for the likes of Rev Pro, What Culture Pro Wrestling and OTT.

Damo issued his own response to the release, saying that “chip is back on my shoulder” and that his email was open for media and booking enquiries.

The now former Killian Dain also confirmed that he has a 90-day no compete clause, whereas some of the other talent that were released had either 30-60.

Xavier Woods Reacts To WWE Releasing Tyler Breeze

Jake Skudder
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WWE Superstar Xavier Woods took to Instagram to react to the release of his friend and UpUpDownDown co-host, Tyler Breeze. It was confirmed yesterday that Breeze would no longer be working for the company, and his tag team partner Fandango was also one of the names let go in yet another round of WWE releases.

Here’s the full comments from Woods regarding his friend being released from the company:

“When I met @mmmgorgeous we were in FCW. We were cool but ended up both being injured once and we would keep each other from going insane by waking up and playing borderlands 2 online together. Through this video game we realized that we were the ying to the others yang. Started talking and hanging out more and realized I was really charismatic but not the best wrestler and he was an amazing wrestler but not the most charismatic. We fit together like puzzle pieces and began learning from each other. Some coaches told me quite a few times to “watch who I hang out with”, “distance yourself from that guy”, “why would you wanna tag with him? He’s not going to help your career”.

Xavier Woods on Tyler Breeze

Some even tried lying in an attempt to put us against each other. We never understood it but by never letting anyone ever get to us he taught me how to be better in the ring and I helped him bring out his natural charisma. Since then every step my @wwe career Matt has literally always been there right with me no matter what. He pushes me to get better and to believe in myself when I don’t. I’m not sure where I’d be in life if he wasn’t in mine. Today sucks. It really sucks. But I’m happy because now my incredibly talented friend gets to whatever he wants to do and I’m so happy that he has that freedom. Love you man!”

It is not currently known if Tyler Breeze will remain with UpUpDownDown or if Woods is alluding to a new video game venture in his statement. Jessamyn Duke was released from WWE as a contracted Superstar but remained with the YouTube channel.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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WWE SmackDown Results (6/25): Edge Attacks Roman Reigns, MITB Qualifiers

Robert Lentini
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0

WWE SmackDown aired live from the ThunderDome in Tampa, Florida. Roman Reigns held a State of the Universal Championship Address tonight on SmackDown. Big E squared off against Apollo Crews in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match. It was also announced that Sami Zayn will face Kevin Owens in a Last Man Standing Match Money in the Bank Qualifier next week.

SmackDown Results (6/25)

  1. Bayley & Seth Rollins def. Bianca Belair & Cesaro
  2. Big E def. Apollo Crews to qualify for the MITB Ladder Match
  3. Liv Morgan def. Carmella to qualify for the MITB Ladder Match
  4. Jimmy Uso def. Dolph Ziggler

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Jey Uso Didn’t Show Up

Paul Heyman was backstage and said that Dominik and Rey will not be here tonight but will be acknowledging the Tribal Chief from their hospital beds. Jimmy Uso arrived and Roman wondered where Jey was. Jimmy claimed that Jey is a no show. Jimmy added that he talked to Jey on the phone and he said he isn’t coming back.

Reigns got pissed off and boasted about taking him from being “one of the Usos” to “Main Event Uso”. Roman said that it was unacceptable for Jey to not show up and Jimmy noted that he is here tonight. Jimmy said he is not anybody’s bitch but will help Reigns tonight. Roman asked if Jimmy was offering to be his right hand man. Jimmy didn’t say that but did say that he can do what his brother does. Reigns told Jimmy to prove it and he walked away.

Bayley Pinned The SmackDown Women’s Champion

SmackDown Women’s Champion Bianca Belair & Cesaro faced Bayley & Seth Rollins in the first match of the night. Bianca said that we are just a couple weeks away from returning to crowds before turning her attention to Bayley. Belair noted that she beat Bayley at Hell in a Cell and cannot stop smiling about it.

Seth Rollins interrupted with a grin on his face and bragged about his victory over Cesaro at Hell in a Cell. Rollins suggested that Bianca’s win over Bayley at Hell in a Cell was a fluke and then Bayley interrupted.

Bayley made her way to the ring and called Bianca Belair a “pathetic loser”. Bianca responded with a punch to the face and Bayley fell down. Bayley hid behind Rollins and then tackled Bianca. Cesaro rushed the ring and attacked Rollins. Cesaro threw Rollins to the outside and started trash talking with Bayley.

When SmackDown returned from a break, Rollins and Cesaro started off the action. Seth went for a Crossbody but Cesaro countered into a Backbreaker. Bayley and Bianca Belair then tagged in and traded shots. Bianca took control with a Backbreaker of her own and followed it up with a standing Moonsault for a near fall.

Bayley tried to buy some time and rolled out of the ring. The SmackDown Women’s Champion followed her out there and Bayley sent her into the barricade. When SmackDown returned from a break, Bayley was in control of the match and Belair was selling an arm injury.

Bayley focused her attack on the arm for a bit until Cesaro tagged in. Cesaro knocked Rollins off the apron and delivered an uppercut to his face outside the ring. Back in the ring, Cesaro hit a Crossbody off the top turnbuckle for a two count. Cesaro hit the Swing and went for a Sharpshooter but Bayley distracted him. Rollins capitalized with a roll-up for a two count.

Bianca set up for the KOD but Rollins hopped in the ring for a distraction. Bayley hit Belair with a chop block to the knee and followed it up with the Rose Plant for the pinfall victory.

Pat McAfee Hilariously Celebrated Shinsuke Nakamura

Boogs brought his guitar into the ring and introduced Nakamura as not just the King of Strong Styles but the one true king of WWE. Boogs shredded the guitar as Pat McAfee pounded a couple of water bottles as if they were beers. McAfee shouted “here’s to the king!” as Nakamura danced around.

Baron Corbin was then interviewed backstage by Kayla Braxton. Corbin was devastated watching Nakamura dance around with the crown on his head. Braxton didn’t know if she should call him King Corbin or not. Corbin said that he has lost it all and not just his crown. Baron then wondered what’s the point and sulked away.

Big E Qualified For The MITB Ladder Match

Big E faced Apollo Crews tonight in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match. Commander Azeez was ringside for the match. Big E sent Crews through the ropes and the Intercontinental Champion landed in front of Commander Azeez. Crews connected with a Death Valley Driver on the ring apron as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, the champ was still in control and hit Big E with a Dropkick for a two count. Apollo followed it up with a Suplex for another near fall. Big E battled back with a Belly to Belly Suplex and followed it up with a Splash. Crews connected with three German Suplexes in a row and went for the cover but somehow Big E kicked out at two.

Big E locked in a Stretch Muffler submission but Crews reached the ropes with help from Azeez. Apollo hit an Enziguri and then a Frog Splash for a near fall. The action spilled to the outside and Big E planted Crews with a Uranage. Commander Azeez tried to hit Big E with the Nigerian Nail but the referee caught him.

The referee kicked Commander Azeez out from ringside but Apollo capitalized on the distraction with a roll-up for a two count. Big E got up and hit the Big Ending for the pinfall victory. Big E has qualified for the men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match.

Seth Rollins Wants A Universal Title Shot

Seth Rollins approached Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce backstage. Rollins brought up Reigns’ State of the Universal Championship Address later and said he wanted to be the Tribal Chief’s next challenger.

Rollins added that he has never been more prepared in his life and claimed that nobody else on the roster deserves a title shot more than him. Pearce told Seth that they are not ready to make a decision yet but Deville added that they will take it under advisement.

Liv Morgan Qualified For The MITB Ladder Match

Sonya Deville introduced Carmella as the first selection for the Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Carmella bragged that she is a two time MITB winner and claimed that she is the most beautiful woman in WWE. Carmella offered Sonya a redo on her intro but Liv Morgan interrupted.

Liv noted that she defeated Carmella last week and that she should be in the ladder match. Carmella joked that the Money in the Bank Ladder Match is for real stars and Liv got angry. Liv slapped Carmella in the face and the two superstars were about to brawl but Sonya Deville broke it up. Sonya said that Liv Morgan can prove that she deserves to be in the match by facing Carmella now. Carmella got annoyed but Deville said she will not be removing Carmella from the Ladder Match as SmackDown went to a break.

Carmella was in control of the match when SmackDown returned. Carmella connected with some kicks to the face in the corner of the ring as Women’s Tag Team Champions Tamina & Natalya were shown watching backstage. Liv exploded out of the corner with a Clothesline for a two count. Carmella got Liv in a head scissors but Morgan countered into a roll-up for the pinfall victory. Carmella demanded to be announced as the most beautiful girl in WWE after the loss.

Jimmy Uso def. Dolph Ziggler

Jimmy Uso squared off against Dolph Ziggler tonight on SmackDown. Earlier on the show, Jimmy was pacing around backstage trying to figure out what Roman Reigns meant by telling him to “prove it”. Heyman told Jimmy that they will pick an opponent for him tonight and Jimmy vowed to win. Paul told Jimmy that he better win now or it could be very bad for him.

Jimmy controlled the action early and leveled Dolph with a shoulder tackle. Jimmy followed it up with an Enziguri and went for the cover but Dolph kicked out at two. Ziggler booted Jimmy in the face and then a Dropkick for a two count. Dolph slowed things down and applied a Sleeper Hold in the middle of the ring.

Uso escaped but Ziggler connected with a kick and an Elbow Drop for another two count. Jimmy sent Ziggler out of the ring and delivered a Suicide Dive to Robert Roode that sent him over the announce desk. Dolph capitalized with a Zig Zag on the steel steps as SmackDown went to a break.

When SmackDown returned, Ziggler went for a Neckbreaker but Jimmy countered with a Clothesline. Jimmy went for a Superkick but Dolph got out of the way and hit another Zig Zag for a near fall. Jimmy then connected with a big Superkick for the pinfall victory.

Edge Returned & Attacked Roman Reigns

Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman were shown watching Jimmy’s victory. Jimmy made his way backstage and wanted Reigns’ thoughts on the victory. Roman smirked but didn’t say a damn thing. Reigns started to head to the ring and Jimmy followed him. Paul stopped him and said to let Reigns have the spotlight. Heyman then patted Jimmy on the chest and said “you did great” several times as if Jimmy were a child.

Roman Reigns made his way to the ring with Heyman for the State of the Universal Title Address. Heyman rolled highlights of Reigns destroying Dominik and Rey Mysterio on recent episodes of SmackDown and ran down the list of superstars Reigns has defeated (Kevin Owens, The Fiend, Braun Strowman, Daniel Bryan, Edge, Cesaro, The Mysterios).

Paul said that Roman Reigns has taken out the entire division in less than a year and that they now have to do something that has never been done on network TV. Heyman handed Reigns the microphone but Edge’s music hit. Edge made his return and rushed the ring.

Edge sent Reigns to the apron and hit him with a Clothesline. Edge bounced Roman’s face off the announce table a few times but Reigns responded with a Superman Punch. Roman grabbed a chair but turned around into a Spear from Edge. Jimmy then got Speared through the barricade by Edge as Reigns retreated up the ramp. Edge shouted that he is right here if Reigns wants a fight to close the show.

Edge Returns On WWE Friday Night SmackDown

Andrew Ravens
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Edge made his return on Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown in the final segment of the show. 

Paul Heyman did a promo about how the WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns had beaten everyone and listed those who he has defeated in his title reign from Kevin Owens to Daniel Bryan to Edge and more. This led to the WWE Hall of Famer coming out to get into a brawl with Reigns. 

Both guys got their spots in. Edge hit a spear to Reigns then went to hit Reigns with duel chairs, but Jimmy Uso ran out to make the save and attack Edge. Moments later, Edge speared Jimmy through the barricade and had a staredown with Reigns, who was selling on the stage. Edge yelled that he’s right here to end the show. 

It appears that this will be the main event from the SmackDown side for the Money in the Bank pay-per-view event on Sunday, July 18, 2021 from Fort Worth, Texas at Dickies Arena, which will have fans. 

Edge was last seen in the triple threat title match with Reigns and Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania 37 that saw “The Big Dog” retain his championship. 

SmackDown Stars Added To Money In The Bank Ladder Matches

Andrew Ravens
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WWE held the first set of SmackDown qualifying matches to determine some of the participants for the Money in the Bank ladder matches.

Sonya Deville announced that Carmella will be in the women’s match as she is a two-time women’s Money in the Bank winner. Liv Morgan made it known that she was not pleased with Deville’s announcement and argued that she beat Carmella last week that she deserved to be in the match as well. 

This set up a situation where Deville declared that if Liv defeated Carmella again, she would be added to the match. That happened on this show. 

For the men’s ladder match, Big E beat Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews in a qualifying match. 

Raw stars Asuka, Naomi, Alex Bliss, and Nikki Cross have already qualified for the women’s match while Ricochet, Matt Riddle, John Morrison from Raw are in the men’s match. 

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. WWE will be announcing more competitors for these matches in the coming weeks.

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