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Dolph Ziggler Reflects on That Punch from Hugh Jackman

Alex Laybourne
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Celebrity appearances in WWE are becoming a more common occurrence. One in particular lives on long in the memories of the WWE universe. In 2011, Hugh Jackman was a guest on RAW. Brought into a segment with Dolph Ziggler and Zack Ryder, Jackman had one job to do. Punch Ziggler in the face as hard as he could.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO2pIhRrFjb/

The rest, is WWE history.

Speaking recently on the Out of Character podcast with Ryan Satin, Dolph Ziggler reflected on that moment.

“Backstage, he’s a sweetheart guy,” said Ziggler. “He was so nice, and he was a fan. … He was like, ‘How can we make this awesome?’ And again, that is rare.”

In the interest of putting on a good show, Dolph Ziggler made the decision that he wanted Jackman to punch him. Giving the Hollywood star very clear instructions not to half-ass the effort and punch him as hard as he could.

“I go, ‘Don’t worry, you can go by the jaw, I can take a pretty good punch.’ So right before we went out, I said one last time, I go, ‘Listen man, if you think you’re gonna halfway do it, [or] miss, let’s switch this right now. Because I need you to punch me in the face with my hands down.’ And he goes, ‘I promise you, I won’t let you down.’ And he cracked me in the face pretty damn hard, it was great.” Ziggler said, recalling the events.

The rest is history, with Dolph Ziggler continuing to claim that the shot fractured his jaw. Whether this was true is open for debate, but one thing is for sure, it created one of the most memorable moments in RAW history.

Backstage Notes On WWE’s Return To Road With 25 City Tour

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE recently confirmed their return to touring with the announcement about a 25 city tour beginning with the July 16 episode of SmackDown. PWinsider provides some backstage update on the company’s decision and the site reveals that the talents were not given a heads up to the announcement.

Though the WWE stars were not completely in dark. They were told that plans for their return to road would be forthcoming and just didn’t know the exact details. The company kept the plans close to their vest not only to avoid the leaks but because of the possibility of plans changing at any moment due to the pandemic.

WWE has only confirmed three locations for their tour so far. The expectation is that most of the events, if not all, will take place in markets that have started relaxing COVID-19 protocols. The Southwest and Florida are two of the most likely areas for events and the site notes that Iowa and Pennsylvania have been discussed as potential locations as well.

There is no update on if the company will be bringing back any of their live event staff or those who were furloughed or let go would return in any capacity. One would think that the officials would keep a conservative approach until they are back to touring in a major capacity.

WWE will hit the road again after more than a year of being confined in a single space without a live audience beginning with the July 16 episode of SmackDown in Houston. It will be followed by the Money In The Bank PPV on July 18 from Fort Worth and July 19 Raw from Dallas.

Rey Mysterio On Daughter Aalyah Possibly Pursuing Career In Wrestling

Anutosh Bajpai
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Dominik Mysterio recently won his first title in WWE when he won the tag team championship with Rey Mysterio. These events naturally raise the question about Rey’s daughter Aalyah possibly joining the wrestling business in future as well.

During a recent interview with Talk Sport, the master of 619 talked about a number of things and also revealed what would be his reaction if his daughter also expresses the desire to join the wrestling business full time.

Mysterio first discussed Aalyah’s recent appearances on WWE TV. Rey then claimed that he would back her up if she decides to pursue a career in wrestling:

“She hasn’t asked the question, but it’s funny you asked me that because my wife, she asked me a couple of days ago, she goes, ‘What would you say if your daughter came at you and said, Dad, I want to become a wrestler?’ I said, ‘I would be the first one to train her, just like I did with Dom!’ She said ‘No you wouldn’t’.

I would! I would back her up 100 percent.” said Rey Mysterio, “She would still have to continue with her school because she wants to be a part of the medical field so she’s working really hard at that right now.”

Aalyah Mysterio made several WWE appearances when she was a kid and she also got involved in a recent feud between the Mysterio family and Seth Rollins.

WWE did a romantic angle between the 20-year-old and Murphy towards the end of 2020 but the company dropped it abruptly. Aalyah has not been seen on TV since.

Update On Chelsea Green’s Recovery Time Following Surgery

Chris Stephens
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Chelsea Green hasn’t performed in a wrestling match since the November 13th, 2020 edition of WWE Smackdown. She broke her wrist in the match and would not be seen on WWE television again before being released last month. Green also had surgery recently to replace a plate in her arm from a previous injury.

According to a report from Fightful, Green is only expected to miss about 6 weeks following the surgery. This would mean she will likely be cleared for when her 90-day no-compete clause with WWE expires on July 15th, 2021.

Where will fans see Chelsea Green next?

There is a lot of ongoing speculation as to where Green could end up next. She is a former Knockouts champion and had a great run in Impact as “The Hot Mess” Laurel Van Ness. Her fiancé, Matt Cardona, is also currently in Impact as well. Cardona is in a feud with former tag partner, friend, and podcast co-host, Brian Myers. It was reported this week in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that there have been talks between Impact and Green about her returning to the promotion.

Green recently took part in an interview with Metro UK and listed Playboy, being killed in a horror movie, and becoming a social media influencer as all being on her radar currently.

“Definitely, I wanna be killed in a horror movie. I’ve always wanted that, I always found it so hilarious where you see the girl running and they always trip and fall, and then they get killed,” Green said.

“When one door closes, so many more open. Sometimes you can’t see what those doors are gonna be,” she continued.

Adam Cole Eager to Work With Seth Rollins

Alex Laybourne
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Adam Cole has yet to make the move to the main roster. When he does, however, there is one many he is eager to face.  Seth Rollins. The pair have fought on many different occasions, across many different promotions through the years. However, Adam Cole is quick to recall their bout on Monday Night Raw a few years ago. Citing it as a legendary moment in his career.

Appearing on the recent 100th episode of WWE’S The Bump, Rollins and Cole came together to talk wrestling, that match, and possibilities for the future.

Both men are at the top of their game and leaders of their respective brands. A match between them is guaranteed to draw viewers.

“I know, myself, and Adam Cole are capable of so much more than what you saw that night. That was a little dip in the pool. We’ve got an entire ocean of potential awaiting us. I know if we run it once, twice, three, four, five times, we’ll blow the wrestling world out of the sky!” Rollins said talking about the chemistry he and Adam Cole share.

At the time, Adam Cole was building a following in NXT. Coming in with a huge reputation following his stint in New Japan among others. However, at the time, NXT was still very much viewed as a feeder brand.

“To me, I showed everybody that Adam Cole had arrived and that I could be a player not just on NXT, but on Raw or SmackDown. That match was massive for my career, huge!”

Could We See Adam Cole and Seth Rollins as a Tag Team?

As their discussions continued, the topic turned not only to future fights against one another but to possibly teamwork. Both men responded positively to the idea of working together down the road.

“I like that idea, too,” Adam Cole replied.

“That sounds great!” Seth Rollins stated. “I think it would be uncomfortable for the other teams that come and face us. They wouldn’t stand a chance. We’re two good-looking young men, and we’re talented. No one would stand a chance – the men or women. The chemistry is off the charts.”

One way or another, every professional wrestling fan is eager to see these two men work together more often. The question is finding the right storyline to make it work.

Enzo Amore Taken To Hospital After Getting Knocked Out At SWE Show

Chris Stephens
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Enzo Amore returned to the ring this weekend for a big SWE show in Texas. Unfortunately, fans in attendance are reporting that Enzo was knocked unconscious and stretchered off during the show.

According to fan reports, he took a DDT on the outside of the ring and was knocked out. He was taken away on a stretcher just before the show went to intermission.

No further updates on Enzo’s condition are available at this time. He did return to Twitter this morning, however, to pay homage to the anniversary of the tragic death of Owen Hart.

nZo, W. Morrissey, & SWE Fury

The SWE promotion out of Texas has been bringing in big names for shows as of late. In addition to nZo, W. Morrissey (FKA Big Cass), Melina, Teddy Long, Charlie Haas, the Boogeyman, Rodney Mack, Christi Jaynes, Ivelisse Velez, Rosemary, and Salina De La Renta were booked on this show. The event was a scheduled TV taping for the show “SWE Fury.”

Where can I watch SWE Fury?

Episodes of SWE Fury are posted every week to YouTube for free. The most recent episode of the promotion’s television show featuring Cazz XL in action is available in the player below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GyjjEDRe9w

Eric Bischoff Reveals Extent of NWO Creative Control over WCW

Alex Laybourne
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The subject of the level of control exerted by the NWO during their WCW reign has always been the subject of much speculation. Talking on a recent appearance on the Wrestleslam podcast, Eric Bischoff attempted to put those rumours to bed.

Talking openly and honestly, Bischoff admitted that there was a degree of creative control given to the trio, but it was not anywhere near as big of a deal as many make out.

“Hall and Nash didn’t have creative control,” Bischoff said. “To clarify, they did have language in their agreement that gave them meaningful consultation. Meaning they were guaranteed to have a conversation with me and it would have been a meaningful conversation, but a meaningful conversation and creative control or two different things, And they did not have creative control.”

This leaves only one member of the group with any degree of creative control. Hulk Hogan, the leader of the group and an icon of the sport. However, when talking about it, Eric Bischoff revealed exactly how frequently Hogan exerted his clause.

“Hulk Hogan had creative control and he only used it once.” Bischoff said, clearing the air on the subject.

Creative control is a subject of some discussion these days. Especially after leaked rumours of infighting within the executive ranks of AEW.

Eric Bischoff took the time to share his own thoughts on the matter, allaying any fears that people might have.

“But I don’t think the challenge that people are talking about really exists in AEW today.” Bischoff said, before adding As far as AEW goes, as far as I know, Tony Khan is the one that’s calling the shots,”

Revolution Pro Provides Update on Status of Will Ospreay

Jake Skudder
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As recently reported, Will Ospreay had to recently relinquish his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship due to injury. NJPW1972, New Japan’s English language website, revealed that the British star was suffering from neck related issues and therefore had to relinquish the title.

“On May 4’s night two of Wrestling Dontaku in Fukuoka, Will Ospreay sustained a neck injury” NJPW1972 wrote. “As a result, Ospreay will not be participating in the next series of events and will instead return to the UK for treatment and rehabilitation.”

In an update to the story, British based promotion Revolution Pro Wrestling have made a statement regarding Ospreay’s status. Ospreay is currently the Rev Pro British Heavyweight Champion; it was believed that he would also be relinquishing the title in his home country’s promotion.

Will Ospreay Returning To The UK

“Too early to say. Our situation is very different to NJ” was the initial response from Rev Pro regarding the status of Ospreay. “No immediate changes need to be made as we hadn’t factored any title defences for first shows back. Time will tell. But we’ve spoken to Will & he will likely address the situation in person at one of our first shows back.”

It is believed that Will Ospreay is already, will be shortly, back in the United Kingdom to undergo treatment for his neck injuries.

Darby Allin Talks Losing TNT Championship To Miro

Jake Skudder
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AEW star and former TNT Champion Darby Allin recently appeared on the Wrestling Perspective podcast. The former professional skateboarder talked about a number of topics during his time on the show, including his Championship loss to Miro on a recent episode of AEW Dynamite.

Before the loss, Darby Allin had been a major ratings success for AEW in the main event of shows. Having a multiple week run of main event matches, Allin would consistently draw well and prove to be a asset across multiple demographics.

Darby Allin Talks TNT Title Loss

“I was hyped to go out when I did” Darby Allin began, talking about his Championship loss to the former WWE Superstar Miro on AEW programming. “Because I was having those string of main events and we were drawing good numbers when I was main eventing. I didn’t want to overstay my welcome.”

“’Like, ‘What the f*uck, when’s this guy gonna lose?’ I didn’t want to be that guy” Allin continued, “I don’t have no ego when it comes to this. I was like, ‘Dude, I’m ready to roll out when I’m on top with it,’ so it was good, I really liked it.”

The former TNT Champion is currently scheduled to team with Sting to take on Scorpio Sky and Ethan Page at the Double or Nothing 2021 PPV event at the end of the month.

PROGRESS Chapter 111 Results: New Women’s Champion Crowned

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS Wrestling held their latest Chapter event this weekend on WWE Network, Peacock and demandPROGRESS. The main event of the show saw Kanji and Gisele Shaw collide to see who would become the new PROGRESS Women’s Champion.

The bout between Kanji and Shaw was the third match in their Best of 3 Series. The Best of 3 has been taking place over the past consecutive Chapter events, with Kanji taking the first bout and Gisele Shaw taking the second.

Kanji would overcome Shaw to become the new PROGRESS Women’s Champion, having only debuted in the company just a few short months ago.

Here’s the full results from the card which is available to watch again on WWE Network, Peacock and demandPROGRESS:

PROGRESS Chapter 111 Results

Here’s the full results from the show:

  • Spike Trivet b. Big Guns Joe – Trivet took the win via pinfall
  • PICK YOUR POISON: Luke Jacobs vs. Chris Ridgeway – This match ended in a No Contest after Warren Banks attacked Chris Ridgeway
  • Mercedez Blaze b. Taonga – Blaze took the win via pinfall, Alexxis Falcon attacked her after the match
  • 0121 (Dan Moloney & Man Like Dereiss) b. The Sunshine Machine (TK Cooper & Chuck Mambo) – The 0121 took the win in their PROGRESS debut as a tag team via pinfall
  • PICK YOUR POISON: Kid Lykos b. Danny Black – Kid Lykos took the win via submission
  • Elijah b. Gene Munny – Elijah took the win via pinfall in this previously unannounced match
  • PICK YOUR POISON: Kid Lykos II b. Ethan Allen and Cara Noir – Kid Lykos II took the shock win via referee stoppage
  • PROGRESS Women’s Championship Match – Kanji b. Gisele Shaw – Kanji took the win via pinfall to become the new PROGRESS Women’s Champion

IMPACT Have No Immediate Plans for FinJuice

Alex Laybourne
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When FinJuice won the IMPACT Wrestling tag-team belts back at the Sacrifice PPV everybody stood up to take notice. The NJPW stars were on loan to IMPACT as part of the new working relationship between wrestling promotions. They won the belts from a different promotion and took them around the world with them.

For two months, FinJuice brought a new elevated level of prestige and attention to IMPACT wrestling. When they were dethroned so cheaply by Violent by Design on the last round of IMPACT tapings, it came as a huge surprise. Even bigger than their initial victory.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CPLzu-LKNWM/

The loss did not sit well with the former champs. Returning to Japan empty-handed, they were quick to comment on events.

“What the hell is a Call Your Shot trophy? I’ve heard of a briefcase, didn’t know there was a trophy. We just put our heart and soul on the line to defend the tag team championships and then we lose them…like that.” David Finlay said during a video call following the recent broadcast.

Title changes are part of wrestling. Having the belts on wrestlers from a different company is never going to be a long-term solution. As it stands right now, there are no immediate plans for FinJuice to challenge for the titles again.

According to sources, IMPACT creative has no immediate plans for the team, who are back in Japan. The working relationship between IMPACT and NJPW is still strong, however, so who knows who else might step up to try and claim the crown.

FinJuice have formed an impressive team since graduating through the NJPW system, and it is only a matter of a time before more belts are hung around their waist.

Ted DiBiase to Revive the Million-Dollar Belt on NXT

Alex Laybourne
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Ted DiBiase has been popping up on NXT quite frequently over the last few weeks. Much to the anguish of Cameron Grimes. Recent news suggests that the NXT universe will see the return of another old-school legend. Only this time it isn’t a person, but rather, a belt.

Ahead of their million-dollar showdown on NXT, sources have revealed that the Million Dollar Belt is being brought back into rotation.

The news was broken inadvertently by Andrew Zaharian of the Mat Men Pro Wrestling podcast.

“Sorry to the individual that told me but Million Dollar Belt is coming back,” Zaharian said. “I don’t know for how long but they’re gonna have it on TV. People are very excited within WWE about the Million Dollar Belt.”

Ted Dibiase first introduced the Million-Dollar Belt back in 1989. It is an unsanctioned title, that changed hands a few times. The most notable million-dollar champion was The Ringmaster a.k.a. Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Ted DiBiase appeared in the NXT area for the first time last week, when it cost Grimes his match against Jake Atlas. Right now, it is unclear what direction NXT creative are going to take with DiBiase. However, the upcoming segment with Grimes, and the million-dollar belt comeback, points to a single outcome.

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

Ted DiBiase is likely to offer the belt to Grimes and bring the recently wealthy man under his wing. DiBiase is a WWE legend, and teaming him with Grimes would be a great way to keep the storyline rolling. Otherwise, it’s hard to see where Cameron would be heading, other than being a mere flash in the pan.

Tyson Kidd On How WWE Took Care Of Him After Career-Ending Injury

Anutosh Bajpai
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Tyson Kidd’s wrestling career ended abruptly after he suffered a neck injury. The injury took place in a dark match back in June 2015 before a WWE show.

However, the company has since helped him in finding new opportunities within the business. While he can’t wrestle anymore, he now helps put together matches behind the scene as a producer.

During a recent interview with WrestlingInc, Kidd opened up about how the promotion also helped him after his nasty injuries. According to him; the company took care of everything:

“With my injuries, my neck and my knee, the [WWE] took care of absolutely everything. I have had, luckily, the best surgeons in the world work on me, and that is through the WWE.

Obviously, I wouldn’t have hurt my knee if I wasn’t wrestling that day in Green Bay, Wisconsin, for the WWE. But they didn’t hurt my knee, it was just a thing. But they took care of every single aspect of my knee, and the same with my neck.”

Tyson Kidd also mentioned that he was under contract with the company the entire time he was rehabilitating. The former tag champion claimed that he can’t say enough good things about them:

“With my neck, I was obviously not out of the company, I was under contract the entire time, I was just at home. But I was at home for almost two years.

They made sure I had a great surgeon, I had to get airlifted out of Texas, and yeah, they covered a lot of things. I can’t say enough good things about the medical in terms of just what I have experienced with them.”

When asked if he ever sits back and reflects on his career accomplishments, Kidd said that he is not bad at living in the moment and he is not too worried about looking too far ahead.

Tyson Kidd made his wrestling debut back in 1995 at a young age of 15. He signed with WWE in 2006 and wrestled for the promotion until his injury in June 2015.

Dominik Mysterio On Scraped Plans For His Debut With Mask

Anutosh Bajpai
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A lot of people believe that Dominik Mysterio should continue his family legacy and wrestle with a mask like his father and wrestling legend Rey Mysterio.

The father son duo recently appeared on the After the Bell podcast where it was revealed that the original plans for the young star’s debut actually called for him to don the legendary mask.

Dominik first discussed how his debut match with Seth Rollins at SummerSlam came together very quickly and revealed that he had originally planned to adopt his father’s signature look during his debut which had to be nixed:

“When he first told me too that they wanted me to have a match with Seth [Rollins] at SummerSlam, I thought he was kidding, never in a million years would I have thought that I’d debut at one of the biggest pay per views against the biggest names.

It was kind of just like, we had no idea who Dominik Mysterio was and whether I was going to wear the mask. We had this whole plan set up on how I was going to debut, mask, everything but everything happened so fast we just ran with it.”

Now that the young star has made his debut without the mask, many wonder if he will ever wear it in his career. Discussing it, Rey Mysterio claimed that it’s not too late yet but Dom will have to earn it:

“It’s still not late to make things happen like we had it planned out. I think Dom is going to have to earn the mask now. He’s on his way, eventually one day, maybe the mask will be on.”

Dominik Mysterio also revealed that the company had already prepared music and graphics for his entrance before he knew and he was left surprised with it.

Rey and Dominik Mysterio made history this past Sunday at WrestleMania: Backlash when they defeated Robert Roode and Dolph Ziggler and became the first father son duo to hold the tag team titles in WWE.

Jim Ross On Picking Randy Orton As The Best Wrestler In The World Over Kenny Omega

Anutosh Bajpai
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Jim Ross had recently called Randy Orton ‘the best wrestler in the world’ right now. However, some fans took exception to his comments, giving the title to Kenny Omega from Ross’ current promotion.

The former WWE commentator talked about the objection of fans on the latest episode of his Grilling JR podcast and explained his remarks.

Ross first reiterated his comments saying that he doesn’t think anybody is better than Orton in the business currently. He mentioned how the viper does not disappoint despite bad packaging from creative:

“I don’t think anybody is any better than Randy Orton in the wrestling business. Of course that’s so subjective. I love Randy’s work, although I don’t watch it regularly enough to make a great evaluation,

In the last several months that I have tuned in to watch some of Randy’s segments, he doesn’t disappoint. No matter how the creative is packaged to him, he doesn’t disappoint.”

However, while talking about how many fans pick the current AEW champion over the legend killer for the mantle; Jim Ross said that he is not going to argue that opinion:

“I’m sure there’s Kenny Omega fans out there that would say Omega is the best wrestler in the world. Some will, and they got the right to their opinion and I’m not going to argue it.”

Ross also explained how the pick of the best wrestler is subjective to one’s opinion and there are a lot of good wrestlers out there in the business currently.

Who would be your pick for the best wrestler in the world currently? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Kurt Angle On Brock Lesnar’s ‘Money First’ Attitude

Anutosh Bajpai
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Kurt Angle has had a storied history with Brock Lesnar. The two stars have challenged each other numerous times in the past and they have had matches in more than one promotion.

The Olympic Gold Medalist talked about the Beast’s early days in the wrestling business during the latest episode of his podcast. He discussed things from Brock’s time in WWE to his controversial NJPW run and more.

Angle discussed Brock Lesnar winning the IWGP world title in his debut match and keeping the belt for over a year. According to him, Lesnar didn’t want to lose the title to just anybody so he told NJPW officials to bring him over:

“He wouldn’t do it with just anybody, so he told New Japan if you bring Kurt Angle over, I’ll do the job for him. They brought me over, he did the job for me and then he wanted to have a rematch so he can make more money.”

Kurt Angle then talked about how Brock Lesnar is a very stern businessman and according to the former Raw general manager, for Brock it’s ‘money first’ and passion second:

“Brock is all about money. He’s a very stern businessman. Everything revolved around money for him. It’s money first, passion second.”

The former TNA star also mentioned how the former universal champion was making a ton of money for his NJPW matches and he was remaining the champion as long as he could.

Brock Lesnar won the IWGP heavyweight championship in his debut match for the promotion in October 2005. Despite his disputes with NJPW, Lesnar kept the title for a while and he dropped it to Angle in June 2007.

Paul Heyman Teases Next Roman Reigns Challenger On Talking Smack

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

‘King’ Shinsuke Nakamura has gained some momentum on SmackDown in the past couple of weeks and now Paul Heyman is teasing a very interesting destination for his current journey.

The former champion appeared on the latest episode of Talking Smack where he discussed his new attitude and where he wants to take his newfound fame.

The Universal champion Roman Reigns, who recently defeated Cesaro now seems to be lacking in challengers for his title and so during the interview, Heyman presented an interesting proposition:

“Nakamura, does it [excite you] just to think that one day, we may actually do King Nakamura against ‘The Tribal Chief’ Roman Reigns,”

The king seemed intrigued by this offer as well. When Shinsuke Nakamura asked Paul to give his word about this bout, he said “[I] promise, my king. Your kingdom is in good hands, sir. I shall send your regards to our Tribal Chief.”

Shinsuke Nakamura was defeated by King Corbin in a match during the May 17 episode of SmackDown. However, Nakamura then attacked Corbin from behind and stole his crown.

On this week’s episode of the show, Nakamura introduced a new ally in Rik Bugez, aka Eric Bugenhagen who performed his entrance. Shinsuke then went on to defeat Corbin in a rematch from last week.

Roman Reigns, on the other hand, defeated Cesaro at WrestleMania: Backlash. Now it would be interesting to see if the Paul Heyman teases come to fruition and we see a feud between these two stars in near future.

Mojo Rawley Teases New Gimmick In Post-WWE Career

Chris Stephens
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Mojo Rawley was released from WWE as part of the company roster cuts last month. The former Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal winner and 7x 24/7 Champion recently teased online that fans are about to see the “real him” when he’s free to perform again shortly.

“10 days until you get me. The real me. The version of me I’ve been so reeeeaaadddy to share with y’all for a decade,” Rawley Tweeted.

https://twitter.com/MojoRawleyWWE/status/1395945782814064642

In a recent interview, Rawley spoke about the difference between training for his NFL and WWE careers.

“I was surprised to see the extent of how different the training is,” Rawley said (Transcriptions via Sportskeeda). “In football, I was a defensive lineman so my weight training was centered around achieving mass and power. I did mostly high weights and low reps. My cardio training primarily required me to operate at a high energy output for short bursts throughout a football game. Now, my cardio and weight training has to enable me to function nonstop throughout a match. I have to be able to function continuously throughout the entirety of a whole match. Quickness within a ring is more important than straight line speed on a football field. The structure of my training has changed completely but my training style has not. Intensity, conditioning, power and HYPE!”

Jey Uso Reflects On The Samoan Wrestling Dynasty

Chris Stephens
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Jey Uso recently returned to WWE on the Smackdown brand. He’ll team with his brother Jimmy next week in a match against the Street Profits. The 35-year-old recently spoke with Yahoo Sports about the history of Samoans in wrestling.

“I think the Samoan people have made wrestling,” Jey Uso said. “Pro wrestling is right down our alley, we’re just physical people, strong, quick. I feel like we were just made to do this. Being a part of it now and seeing all of the blood that has been laid before me, the whole family tree, it’s very humbling and I’m so proud I am part of this.”

Jimmy and Jey Uso are both from the Fatu side of the Anoa’i family dynasty in wrestling. The Tonga Kid/Tama/Sam Fatu is their Uncle, as was Umaga, and MLW World Champion Jacob Fatu is their cousin.

“As I’m a part of the business now and as a man, you see Peter Maivia rocking the traditional Samoan tattoo, known as the Pe’a, right there, my mind is already blown because at that time they probably looked at him like he was crazy,” Uso continued. “That was telling me that he wasn’t afraid to show people who he was. The heritage, being proud of who he was. The tattoos, that’s our thing, we wear the markings on the skin to show the world who we are, what we are and how we are.”

Jey Uso on his father Rikishi and the Rock

Uso would continue to say that his father Rikishi and the Rock helped to break stereotypes in wrestling while still honoring their heritage.

“The cool thing is that my dad was part of those stereotypes when he was with the Headshrinkers,” Uso said. “When my dad gets with Too Cool and dyes his hair blonde, now he’s adding layers to his character. Now he starts dancing, now he’s got these hip-hop guys with him. That was a feel good moment. Same thing with The Rock. He was so witty and when he started cutting those promos, the way he talked and looked, you wanted to be around him.”

“These guys gave off great energy and that’s what Samoan people are, period. We’re happy people. We’re very, very family oriented. I think that’s what resonated with people and it started to bleed through the screen, to the point where people started to realize that these were fun, cool dudes.”

Yuji Nagata ‘Interested’ in Return To All Elite Wrestling

Jake Skudder
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New Japan Pro Wrestling legend Yuji Nagata made his AEW debut just over a week ago. Blue Justice faced Jon Moxley in a match for the IWGP United States Championship.

This signals yet another time that a belt from an outside promotion has been defended on AEW Dynamite.

It was recently reported by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Nagata was interested in a return to AEW and he was extremely happy with how he was treated.

Yuji Nagata To Return To AEW?

“Yuji Nagata said he enjoyed his time in AEW and would like to return” Meltzer wrote. “He said Tony Khan told him that anytime he wants to come back he’s welcome.”

With the positive way in which Nagata was portrayed on screen by AEW, New Japan will likely be keen to work with them going forward. NJPW Strong producer and New Japan star Rocky Romero will be wrestling on this week’s episode of AEW Dark: Elevation.

It’s not been confirmed if Yuji Nagata will be returning to AEW anytime soon. With the current travel restrictions amid the pandemic; it’s unlikely that we’ll see many more NJPW talents appear on Dynamite that aren’t already based in the US.

PROGRESS Star Kanji Wants Jordynne Grace To Return To Challenge Her

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS Wrestling star Kanji has made a challenge to IMPACT Wrestling’s Jordynne Grace. Kanji will be attempting to win the PROGRESS Women’s Championship at Chapter 111: One Leg In The Air, and she said that Grace is a former Champion that she would like to see return to the company.

Kanji made the comments during a recent PROGRESS Media Call. “I’d love to see Jordynne Grace come back,” Kanji replied when asked who she would like to see return.

“I’d love to step in the ring with Jordynne Grace and have her come back with all the skills and abilities that she’s learned since having the belt previously” Kanji continued.

Kanji on Jordynne Grace and Meiko Satomura

Jordynne Grace was previously the PROGRESS Women’s Champion after defeating NXT UK Superstar Jinny. Grace was eventually defeated by Meiko Satomura, who also has gone on to NXT UK. Satomura is also someone that the PROGRESS hopeful would like to see return to the company.

“I think definitely also get Meiko Satomura back” the UK star stated. “I think she could grace our ring again. That would be awesome.”

Rey Fenix To Miss Double Or Nothing Due To Injury

Anutosh Bajpai
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Rey Fenix hasn’t wrestled on AEW programming in recent while and new reports reveal that the high flying star has been on the shelf due to some injuries.

Dave Meltzer talked about the Mexican star in the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Newsletter and revealed that he is out of action with injuries.

Meltzer also mentioned that the injuries will force Fenix to miss the Double Or Nothing PPV on May 30. Though he did not elaborate further on his condition.

The belief is that the AEW star suffered the damage during a recent match in Mexico, although which match it could have been is also unknown.

Rey Fenix alongside Penta El Zero Miedo are the current AAA tag team champions but the brothers have not defended the titles in recent months.

He has not wrestled for All Elite Wrestling this month either. Fenix’s last match for the promotion was a singles bout against Chuck Taylor on the April 29 episode of AEW Dark: Elevation.

While the former Lucha Underground star will be missing the upcoming PPV of the company, both of his Death Triangle teammates will be competing on the show in different matches.

Penta is currently scheduled to wrestle in the Casino Battle Royale while Pac, alongside Orange Cassidy and the AEW champion Kenny Omega will be competing in a triple threat match for the title.

Zelina Vega Set for WWE Return

Alex Laybourne
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WWE announced the release of Zelina Vega back in November 2020. Since then she has been very vocal about the WWE third party bans they place on their stars. This is a subject of recent discussion, with Xavier Woods recently talking about why Up Up Down Down is not on Twitch.

Since her departure, Zelina Vega has created accounts on both OnlyFans and Twitch. More to the point, her income from these sources is reportedly higher than that of her initial WWE deal.

Yet, despite this, Vega has been seen at the performance center in recent weeks. She was even seen shooting some video footage with Simone Johnson. Source have since confirmed that WWE creative are working on a new angle to bring Zelina Vega back into WWE.

There are no details on when this is likely to be. However, it will be on the main roster, rather than a return to NXT.

During her previous run, WWE used Zelina Vega primarily as a valet. It stands to reason that she will be used predominantly in the same capacity on her return. Vega is married to Aleister Black, who recently made his return to Smackdown, interrupting a fatal-four-way match for the Intercontinental title.

Simone Johnson was recently seen modelling for Aleister Black’s new clothing range and has been shooting footage with Zelina Vega in recent weeks. Could this mean that she will be returning to aid her real-life husband and further develop his new character?

In whatever guise Vega makes her return, it also remains to be seen what will happen with her third party commitments.

Gisele Shaw Calls Out Sasha Banks

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS Wrestling star Gisele Shaw has called out WWE Superstar Sasha Banks. During a recent PROGRESS Media Call, Shaw said that she has ‘heard’ that Banks wants to perform in a PROGRESS ring, and the ‘Quintessential Diva’ Shaw has said that she is ready for the challenge.

“My people told me that apparently Sasha Banks wants to come to PROGRESS” Gisele Shaw mentioned during the media call. “And if we can make that happen, then you know what? I’m open to a singles match.”

Previously, Shaw had called out Charlotte Flair on WWE’s The Bump on Wednesday. Shaw said that The Queen has won every Championship going, but she has never faced the Canadian star nor the PROGRESS Women’s Championship; which Jordynne Grace recently said was on par with the IMPACT title.

Gisele Shaw on Sasha Banks

“I’m open to a triple threat, doesn’t matter to me” Gisele continued, after mentioning Charlotte Flair. “Get that out there.”

Gisele Shaw vs Kanji headlines PROGRESS Chapter 111 tonight on WWE Network, Peacock and demandPROGRESS.

Here’s the full card for the show which is available on demand from 5pm GMT, 1pm Eastern and 10am Pacific:

  • Spike Trivet vs Big Guns Joe
  • Luke Jacobs vs Chris Ridgeway
  • Taonga vs Mercedez Blaze
  • The 0121 vs Sunshine Machine
  • Kid Lykos vs Danny Black
  • PROGRESS Women’s Champion Best of Three Series: Match 3 – Kanji vs Gisele Shaw

QT Marshall Taunts Paul Wight During AEW Dark Elevation Match

Alex Laybourne
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When Paul Wight signed for AEW he did so as both a color commentator and a part-time performer. Since then we have yet to see the big man in an AEW ring. However, that could be changing if recent events on AEW Dark Elevation mean anything.

Paul Wight has been fun to listen to since the launch of Elevation, and the show is a great place to catch a packed card with some very good names each week.

It was during the match between QT Marshall and Baron Black that Marshall first the first shot of a possible feud. Raising his arm into the air ala Wight’s previous incarnation as The Big Show in WWE. He followed this up with stare at the commentary table and a gesture in Wights direction that left nothing to the imagination.

Paul Wight All Too Eager to Put QT Marshall in his Place

Both the crowd and the commentators reacted to the gesture, with Tony Schiavone remarking “Well, he knows you’re here, Paul.”

Paul White smiled and added “Yeah, well he might feel I’m here pretty quick too.”

It was always expected that Wight would step between the ropes. He has plenty of gas left in the tank. With Double or Nothing coming up, and QT Marshall currently without an opponent, perhaps we will be seeing Wight sooner rather than later.

They were certainly fighting words and actions from both Paul White and QT on Elevation, and there are no coincidences in professional wrestling.

The timing of the actions are a little strange, given the Nightmare Family – Factory feud that is currently going on. That might be why we saw it take place on Dark Elevation rather than Dynamite. Either way, it will be interesting to see if anything comes from it. Seeing Paul Wight in action in an AEW ring will certainly be met by cheers from fans around the world.

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