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Bray Wyatt Teases a Return to Wrestling With New Cryptic Tweet

Alex Laybourne
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WWE has released a lot of superstars this year. Real superstars, not wrestlers given that moniker due to needing a superlative to complete a sentence. Bray Wyatt was arguably the biggest and most surprising name to be given the chop.

Everybody knew about the sudden creative drought surrounding the Fiend character. However, for a fighter as determined, committed and creative as Bray Wyatt, his release was certainly a shock.

Not even a month ago, it seems like it has been forever since the news broke. While there is an undeniable irony to his no-compete clause expiring on October 31st, there were many rumours abounding that Bray Wyatt might leave his boots in the ring and pursue other ventures. Acting being a main role linked to the star.

However, in another recent and cryptic tweet – something of a speciality for the man – it looks as if fans can rest assured, they will see him back between the ropes.

Bray Wyatt has Been Quiet but Said so Much

Bray Wyatt is a man who knows how to create a character. He is more than capable of putting on a show and building the interest around himself. Now that he is free from the shackles of WWE creative control, he can explore to his fullest.

“Rock Stars come and go. Musicians play until they die.”

– Bray Wyatt / Van Halen

The words may be borrowed from Van Halen, but many fans are taking this to be Wyatt’s way of committing to a life in the ring. The only real question that remains is what he will do, and where he will go to do it.

Wyatt’s only other tweet since his release was an equally mysterious one teasing at a new mask and a new direction for his Fiend character.

Whatever happens, one thing is for sure, Bray Wyatt is going to be a force to be reckoned with when he gets back into the ring.

Goldberg On If He Is Proud of His Recent WWE Performances “Hell No”

Alex Laybourne
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When it comes to dominance in professional wrestling, it is hard to think much beyond Goldberg. In his prime he was untouchable. His streak ran for 173 matches. His opponents rarely survived more than a few minutes in the ring with him.

Alas, age catches up with even the most lionhearted souls. Now, at aged 54, Goldberg realizes he is getting towards the end. However, a warrior’s spirit never dies. Talking in a recent interview with AP news, he spoke openly and candidly about his performances in the ring over recent years.

Referencing the way people have reacted to John Cena’s return and the comments that he still has that same ability hit home for Goldberg.

“I guess Roman made mention of Cena coming back and being the same guy,” he said. “Well, that’s what people pay for. That’s why they bring him back because he’s the same guy. Yeah, you have to evolve a little bit.”

“But people want to see me go out and smash dudes. That’s what made me who I am.”

– Goldberg

Goldberg Understands the Expectations He Built for Himself in the Ring

There are quite some years between Goldberg and John Cena. Age is a fickle mistress and the former WWE champion knows isn’t the same man he was back then. However, he accepts he needs to do better. For himself, and for the fans.

“I’m not proud of anything I’ve done over the past number of years,” he said. “Have I done enough to get by? Yeah. But am I proud of my performances? Hell no. No. 1, I’ve got to win. No. 2, I’ve got to provide a little bit more entertainment, more power moves and just be more like Goldberg. That’s what you’re going to see on Saturday.”

While many wrestling fans may clamor they want more from a match, they need to understand that Goldberg is not your average wrestler. His gimmick, his character is defined by what he does in the ring. He hits big moves, and he tears guys apart.

It sounds as if Goldberg is more than fired up for his match this weekend at Summerslam. Whether he wins the title or not, it will be about leaving behind a memory that he can look back on without regret.

CM Punk Reveals How Long He’s Talked To AEW

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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CM Punk has unveiled how long he has been speaking to AEW.

Punk made his AEW debut in front of a jam-packed United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Punk opened up the second episode of Rampage. Following an emotional entrance, Punk addressed the fans. He said he didn’t blame those who were disappointed by his absence.

Punk also said he felt he hasn’t truly been a part of the wrestling industry since he left ROH in 2005. With his AEW signing, Punk said he now feels he’s truly back. He then turned his attention to Darby Allin. The two will collide on Sept. 5 at All Out.

Punk took answers from the media following Rampage. He revealed how long he had been speaking to AEW.

“I’ll go ahead and spoil that I’ve been talking to Tony for probably a year and a half about this. Some girls are easy to get into bed. I am not. I need to do wined and dined. That’s not, ‘oh I need more money and less dates’ and ‘oh I need this and I need that.’ It was literally just talking to Tony and getting to know him, and the more people that he employed that I knew, I’d ask them questions and they’d tell me things.

“I’ve been in the game for a few minutes, you know, so I’ve seen that. I think I traced it back to, especially since the downfall of ECW, every six months to a year, somebody pops up, ‘I have money, we’re gonna have TV and we’re going to use all the ECW guys.’ This is not a slight on Tony at all. It’s more of, it’s more of a slight at me being a paranoid, neurotic, anxiety-ridden, very careful person, and I wasn’t in a hurry. The pandemic kind of help that out, you know, and I knew I couldn’t debut if there’s no people in the building. So, I always say, timing is everything, and there were a lot of happy accidents along the way that made this possible.”

CM Punk had been away from the wrestling business since 2014. He left WWE following the Royal Rumble PPV. Punk expressed his dismay with the lack of time off and how the WWE medical team handled his staph infection. He also took issue with some creative decisions.

Darby Allin Responds To CM Punk’s Challenge For All Out After Rampage (Video)

Anutosh Bajpai
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CM Punk laid out a massive challenge for Darby Allin for a match at the upcoming All Out PPV during his AEW debut on this week’s The First Dance episode of Rampage.

The former TNT champion responded to the challenge after the show went off air. He claimed that AEW has changed his life and wrestling the former WWE champion will be an honor:

“I am gonna keep this very brief. This f**king company changed my life.” said Allin, “And after All Out, everybody will know my name. CM Punk- It’ll be an honor.”

https://twitter.com/FLWrestlingFan/status/1428917898232442886

CM Punk had been rumored to make his wrestling return for AEW for a while now. In the post-media scrum of Rampage, he confirmed that he was waiting for the crowds to come back.

Darby Allin had also been teasing a match against the former WWE star in recent times. Tonight’s events finally confirmed this bout for the upcoming PPV.

Punk has been announced for next Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite so it will be interesting to see if he confronts Darby Allin during the upcoming show.

What did you think about CM Punk’s return on AEW Rampage? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

Christian Cage vs. Ace Austin Set For Victory Road

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Christian Cage has his next Impact Wrestling World Title match set.

Cage and Ace Austin competed in separate matches on the Impact Emergence card. Cage was in the main event defending his title against Brian Myers, who earned his opportunity by winning a battle royale. Cage ended up defeating Myers to maintain his gold on the gold.

Austin competed in a fatal four-way match against Sami Callihan, Moose, and Chris Sabin. Austin won the match and will now meet Cage for the Impact Wrestling World Title on Sept. 18 at Victory Road.

Cage captured the Impact Wrestling World Title on the debut episode of AEW Rampage. He defeated Kenny Omega with a Killswitch on a seated chair for the three-count. The victory over Myers is Cage’s first successful title defense.

On the go-home edition of Impact Wrestling, Cage retired the TNA World Championship. Cage said he did so because he wanted to put the focus on the future of the wrestling industry instead of the past.

This won’t be the first time Austin competes for the Impact Wrestling World Title. He challenged for the gold in a five-way elimination bout at Slammiversary back in 2020. Austin lost that match.

AEW Rampage The First Dance Results (8/20): CM Punk Debuts, Match Announced For All Out

Robert Lentini
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AEW Rampage aired from the United Center in Chicago. After 7+ long years, CM Punk finally made his return to professional wrestling on the 2nd episode of AEW Rampage. Jon Moxley battled Daniel Garcia in the main event and Jurassic Express faced Private Party in the Eliminator Tournament.

Rampage Results

  1. Jurassic Express def. Private Party in the Tag Title Eliminator Tournament
  2. Jade Cargill def. Kiera Hogan
  3. Jon Moxley def. Daniel Garcia via submission

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

CM Punk Made His AEW Debut, Will Face Darby Allin At All Out

CM Punk kicked off the show to a ridiculous reaction from the crowd. CM Punk dove into the crowd in an awesome moment. Punk hesitated to get into the ring and ran to the barricade to hug some friends in the crowd.

Rampage returned from a break with CM Punk standing in the ring as the crowd chanted his name. CM Punk joked that the crowd really knows how to make a kid feel like Britt Baker in Pittsburgh. Punk said that he didn’t know what he was going to say but he needed to hear and feel the crowd. CM Punk had tears in his eyes and held the microphone up to the crowd.

Punk stated that he heard the crowds chant that for 7 years and that there is good news and bad news. The bad news is that there is a lot to get to and he can’t do it all tonight. Punk added that the good news is that he has all the time in the world on Wednesday, Friday, and four PPVs a year.

CM Punk added that if anyone is disappointed in his decisions that got him here, he was never going to get healthy emotionally and physically staying in the same place that made him that way. Punk said he was going to tell a story and took off his sweatshirt to reveal a new shirt.

Punk took a seat in the middle of the ring and the crowd went bananas. CM Punk said he had to leave and that was when he worked for a place called Ring of Honor. Punk noted that he had tears in his eyes during his last match because he had made a place where people could work and love professional wrestling. Punk added that he cried because he was leaving a place he loved and it wasn’t’ going to be easy for a guy like him. CM Punk said on “August 13, 2005 I left professional wrestling and on August 20th, 2021 I am back”.

Punk stated that he is back for the fans, himself, and there is a ton of young talent in the back that has the same passion that he had stomped out. CM Punk shouted “Darby Allin!” and the crowd started chanting his name. Darby Allin and Sting were shown in the rafters and Punk complimented him. Punk told Allin that he was tough like everyone here in Chicago.

CM Punk added that he is here to help because Darby Allin is into dangerous things and there is nothing more dangerous than wrestling CM Punk in Chicago. Punk challenged Darby Allin to match at All Out on September 5th. CM Punk closed the promo by saying that everyone can pick up a free ice cream bar on him on the way out of the United Center. It was later announced that CM Punk will make his first appearance on Dynamite this Wednesday in Milwaukee.

Jurassic Express Advanced In The Tag Title Eliminator Tournament

Private Party faced Jurassic Express in the Eliminator Tournament to determine who will the Young Bucks at All Out for the AEW Tag Team Championships. Matt Hardy and Marko Stunt were ringside for the match. Young Bucks took a seat at the top of the entrance ramp as Lucha Bros and Varsity Blonds were shown in the crowd.

Kassidy and Jungle Boy started off the action and locked up in the middle of there ing. Jungle Boy hit a shoulder tackle and followed it up with an Arm Drag. Kassidy booted Jungle Boy in the ribs and tagged in Marq Quen. Jungle Boy leveled both members of Private Party with a couple Dropkicks. Kassidy distracted the referee and both Quen and Matt Hardy hit Jungle Boy with some cheap shots as Rampage went to a break.

When Rampage returned, Jungle Boy connected with a Clothesline that knocked Kassidy to the mat. Luchasaurus tagged in and unloaded some strikes on Kassidy and Quen. Private Party hit an absurd Destroyer off of Luchasaurus’ shoulders for a two count on Jungle Boy. Quen leveled Luchasaurus with a Shooting Star Press outside the ring. Jungle Boy hit a Cutter on Kassidy and went for the cover but he somehow kicked out at two. Matt Hardy threw Marko to the floor and Kassidy rolled up Jungle Boy while using the ropes for leverage but he kicked out at two again. Jurassic Express hit a Powerbomb on Quen for the pinfall victory to advance to the finals.

Jade Cargill Dominated

Jade Cargill faced Kiera Hogan tonight on Rampage. Mark Sterling was in Cargill’s corner for the match. Hogan got in some offense early but Jade dropped her with a boot to the face and then hit Jaded for the quick pinfall victory.

Moxley Picked Up A Win, Sting & Darby Allin Made The Save To Close The Show

Jon Moxley faced Daniel Garcia in tonight’s main event. Before the match, Mark Henry interviewed Garcia and Moxley in split screen. 2point0 was with Garcia for the interview. Garcia claimed that he was going to tap Jon out and Moxley responded that he has a better chance of getting him pregnant than tapping him out tonight. Moxley added that it is fitting that this match is in the United Center because he is going to bounce Garcia’s head off the floor like a basketball. Eddie Kingston and 2point0 were ringside for the match.

Moxley went right after Garcia and beat him down to start off the action. Daniel battled back and went to work on Moxley’s leg. Garcia locked in a submission hold but Moxley broke free and hit a German Suplex. Daniel shrugged it off and applied an Ankle Lock in the middle of the ring. Moxley broke free but Garcia got him in the Sharpshooter. Moxley escaped and locked in the Guillotine choke for the submission victory.. After the match, 2point0 attacked Moxley and Kingston.

Sting & Darby Allin made their way to the ring for the save and a brawl broke out. Moxley hit Garcia with the Paradigm Shift and joined in not he beat down of 2point0 with Eddie Kingston. Sting hit the Splash and then the Scorpion Deathdrop. Allin made his way to the top rope and connected with a big Coffin Drop on 2point0 to close the show.

CM Punk Debuts On AEW Rampage, Will Face Darby Allin at All In

Andrew Ravens
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CM Punk finally made his return to pro wrestling and did it on Friday’s episode of AEW Rampage from Chicago, IL at the Allstate Arena. 

The fans went nuts, he dove into the crowd and hugged several of his friends at ringside. He cut a promo about how he didn’t know what he was going to say until he felt the crowd. He said he has a lot to say and he will get to that later. He said that he couldn’t stay in the same place that got him sick in the first place. 

Punk said that he felt before like he had to leave. He said in August 2005 he felt like he had to leave ROH and it boiled down to him finding a place where he found a play to make a name for themselves and then leave.

He said in 2005, he left pro wrestling, but in August 2021, he’s back. Punk said he’s back for himself and the fans because there’s a lot of talent he wishes he could’ve been around. He said he’s back to work with young talent and there are a few scores to settle. He called out Darby Allin and said that he’s good. Punk said that he’s here to help Allin so he challenged Allin at All Out. 

On July 21st, news first broke that the former WWE Champion has been in talks to make a return to pro wrestling as an in-ring performer with AEW being the leading candidate. 

There had been a lot of speculation as to when Punk could make his promotional debut, but it was always favored to be in Chicago as that’s his hometown. There are three dates in the first week of September in the city – Dynamite, Rampage, and All Out. However, when AEW announced this special episode of Rampage, many fans knew this was the date for his arrival.

WWE SmackDown Results (8/20): SummerSlam Go-Home Show, Cena & Reigns

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. It was the final episode of SmackDown before WWE SummerSlam tomorrow night. John Cena and Roman Reigns had their final statements before the PPV and Edge addressed Seth Rollins.

SmackDown Results

  1. Jey Uso def. Rey Mysterio
  2. Baron Corbin def. Kevin Owens via DQ
  3. Shotzi & Nox def. Natalya & Tamina (Championship Contenders Match)
  4. Shinsuke Nakamura & Rick Boogs def. Apollo Crews & Commander Azeez
  5. Bianca Belair def. Zelina Vega
  6. Bianca Belair def. Carmella

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Edge Vowed To Burn Seth Rollins Down At SummerSlam

Edge made his way to the ring to begin this week’s show to a great reaction from the crowd. He took a seat on a chair in the middle of the ring with a spotlight on him. Edge said “Seth I saw what you said last week but more importantly, I really heard what you said and it sat with me”.

Edge claimed that Rollins attack in 2014 still weighs on him because he was worried about his way of life, his wife, and his kids. He noted that Rollins made those same threats and he knows that the Curb Stomp can end his career and prevent him from being the father he needs to be. The threats have put Edge in a dark place and now he knows what he has to do.

He claimed that he doesn’t have to just beat Rollins at SummerSlam, he has to break and humble Seth at the PPV. Edge stared into the camera and shouted that he is going to burn Seth Rollins down at SummerSlam.

Jey Uso def. Rey Mysterio

Rey Mysterio faced Jey Uso tonight on SmackDown. Dominik Mysterio and Jimmy Uso were ringside for the match. Rey connected with a Hurricanrana and then some punches in the corner of the ring. Jey battled back with a right hand that dropped Rey to the canvas.

Jey lifted Rey up in the Electric Chair but Mysterio unloaded a dozen or so punches to Jey’s face. Rey followed it up with a springboard Moonsault onto both of The Usos outside the ring. SmackDown went to a break as Rey and Dominik posed in the ring.

When SmackDown returned, Jey was in control and planted Rey with a Samoan Drop and went for the cover but Mysterio was able to kick out at two. Jey perched Rey up on the top turnbuckle and then shoved him to the ring apron. Mysterio countered and hit a Hurricanrana from the top rope for a near fall.

Rey and Jey traded punches in the middle of the ring. Mysterio connected with a springboard Crossbody for a two count. Uso shoved Rey into the turnbuckle and hit a big Neckbreaker for another near fall. Mysterio connected with a Senton and followed it up with a DDT for a two count. Rey rolled up Jey but Dominik tried to help by using his legs for leverage.

The referee caught him and kicked him out. Rey was disappointed and started talking to Dominik outside the ring. The Usos capitalized and attacked them both. Back in the ring, Jey connected with a Frog Splash on Rey for the pinfall victory.

Baron Corbin Still Has The MITB Briefcase

Baron Corbin faced Kevin Owens again tonight on SmackDown. Corbin came to the ring with the MITB briefcase that he stole from Big E last week. Owens started off the match in control but Corbin responded with a Clothesline for a two count. Baron unloaded several punches to Owens’ face and then sent him to the corner of there ing

Corbin hit some more shots to the midsection but Owens threw him to the apron. Owens followed it up with a Superkick that knocked Corbin out of the ring. Owens delivered a Cannonball off the apron and rolled Corbin back into the ring. Kevin made his way to the top rope but Corbin rolled to the apron.

Corbin hung up Owens in the ropes and then went for a Chokeslam. Owens escaped and went for the Stunner but Corbin blocked it. Baron rolled out of the ring and Big E’s theme hit. Big E marched down the entrance ramp and chased Corbin around. Big E attacked Corbin to end the match in a DQ. Big E went to walk away with the briefcase but Corbin shoved him from behind. Corbin ran away with the briefcase to end the segment.

Belair def. Zelina Vega & Carmella

SmackDown Women’s Champion Bianca Belair was interviewed backstage by Kayla Braxton tonight. Before the interview, footage of Sasha’s attack on the champion with Carmella and Zelina Vega was shown. There have been rumors that the match between Banks and Belair was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.

Belair stated that hearing the name Sasha stresses her out and it makes her think of what she is going to do to that b… Bianca stopped herself and called Banks a “brat” and added that she hopes she is watching what she does to Zelina and Carmella tonight.

Later on SmackDown, Bianca Belair faced Zelina Vega and Carmella in back to back matches. Vega got in some offense and went for a Hurricanrana but Belair caught her. Bianca connected with the KOD for the quick victory. Carmella immediately attacked Belair as SmackDown went to a break.

When SmackDown returned, Carmella was in control and had the SmackDown Women’s Champion trapped in the corner. Carmella hit a Facebuster and went for the cover but Bianca kicked out at two. Carmella followed it up with a series of elbows to the face and then a Bronco Buster.

Belair kicked out of the cover and tried to crawl away but Carmella got her in a Headlock on the middle of the ring. Bianca broke free and showed off her power with massive vertical Suplex. Belair hit a standing Moonsault for a two count and sent Carmella to the corner.

Carmella locked in the Code of the Silence in the ropes and then trapped Bianca in the ring skirt. Carmella booted Belair in the face and rolled her back into the ring. Carmella went for another Facebuster but Belair countered into a Spinebuster. Bianca quickly connected with the KOD for the pinfall victory.

Shotzi & Nox Pinned The Champs

Shotzi and Nox squared off against Women’s Tag Team Champions Natalya & Tamina in a Championship Contenders match. Natalya beat down Shotzi in the corner of the ring to start off the action. Shotzi tried to battle back but Natalya slammed her to the mat and followed it up with a Suplex for a two count.

Natalya applied a Headlock in the middle of the ring but Shotzi battled to her feet. Shotzi escaped and connected with a Neckbreaker. Shotzi hit Tamina with a knee to the face and Nox followed it up with a Crossbody off the apron. Natalya went for a Sharpshooter but Shotzi countered into a roll-up for the pinfall victory.

Edge Sent A Message To Rollins

Seth Rollins responded to Edge to start off the 2nd hour of SmackDown. Rollins was in an all white suit, tie, and shoes. The crowd chanted “we want Edge!” and Rollins said “you already had Edge and now you have me!”. Rollins claimed that Edge used every excuse in the book to why he is going to lose to Seth tomorrow.

Rollins said that there is no shame in Edge’s shortcomings and the fans started up another loud “Edge!” chant. Seth told them to shut up and the crowd responded with a “you suck!” chant. Rollins added that there is no shame in Edge not being able to find the darkness that used to guide him and without it he will not be able to get on his level. The Brood’s theme hit and Edge appeared on the screen. Edge laughed and said that Rollins will never see it coming. A black liquid was then poured all over Rollins in the middle of the ring and as the crowd erupted.

Otis def. Montez Ford

Montez Ford faced Otis on this week’s SmackDown. Angelo Dawkins and Chad Gable were ringside for the match. Chad Gable tried to interfere but Dawkins took him out. Montez connected with a Frog Splash on Otis but the big man kicked out. Otis then dominated and hit the Vader Bomb for the easy pinfall victory.

Boogs Pinned Crews

Apollo Crews & Commander Azeez faced Shinsuke Nakamura and Boogs tonight on SmackDown. Rick Boogs sent Crews flying across the ring with a slam and tagged in Nakamura. Azeez tagged in as well and Nakamura greeted him with a kick to the face. Azeez charged but Shinsuke got out of the way and connected with another knee to the face for a near fall.

Nakamura geared up for the Kinshasa but Azeez was ready and countered with a Sidewalk Slam. Apollo tagged in and walked into an Enziguri from Nakamura. Boogs tagged in and applied the Abdominal Stretch while playing the air guitar. Boogs hit a slam on Crews for the pinfall victory.

Reigns Said He Will Leave WWE If He Loses At SummerSlam

Universal Champion Roman Reigns came down to the ring with Paul Heyman at the close of this week’s SmackDown. John Cena followed to a great reaction from the crowd. Reigns began to speak and was greeted with a chorus of boos. Roman said “a lot of people will say a lot of stupid things to him and that is exactly what John did last week”.

Reigns added that Cena said a lot of dumb stuff but he said it with energy so the crowd ate it up. Roman laughed at the idea that Cena can pin him 1-2-3 and then asked Heyman when is the last time he lost. Paul Heyman said “nobody has ever beaten this Roman Reigns. Stats are stats”.

John fired up the crowd before telling Reigns that he has no idea what he is in for tomorrow. Cena said he was here to take the title, go do movies, and leave Reigns here an embarrassed failure. John claimed that Roman was protected in this egomaniac bubble and all it is going to take is 1-2-3. Cena said that he was not here to promote movies, he was here to demote Roman Reigns.

Cena said that he will break the all-time championship record at SummerSlam thanks to Roman Reigns and all it takes is 1-2-3. Reigns smirked and told Cena that he does not get it. Roman told Cena that he should have smartened himself up because that he smashes people up so bad that WWE doesn’t have any use for them any more.

Reigns suggested that he could go do movies just like Cena and that John thinks he is better than him. Roman added that he is either leaving SummerSlam as the champion or is leaving WWE. Reigns tried to attack Cena but John was ready and rolled him up for a three count. Cena celebrated on the entrance ramp to close the show.

Logan Paul To Appear On WWE Monday Night Raw

Andrew Ravens
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YouTube star Logan Paul is advertised to make his first WWE appearance since WrestleMania.

During Friday’s episode of SmackDown, WWE confirmed that Paul will be John Morrison’s guest for a “Moist TV” talk show segment on Monday’s episode of Raw. This segment was first introduced on this past Monday’s Raw and also featured The Miz. 

Earlier this year, Paul made his WWE television debut during the build to WrestleMania 37 where he was ringside for Kevin Owens’ match against Sami Zayn. Following the bout, Owens laid Paul out with a stunner

This past June, Paul faced Floyd Mayweather in a boxing exhibition where he went the full eight rounds with the boxing legend and didn’t get knocked out like many had hoped or predicted. 

Paul’s brother, Jake Paul, will face former UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley in a boxing match on Sunday, August 29th.

WWE holds this Monday’s Raw at Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California, which will be the post-SummerSlam episode of the show.

Based on recent television, it appears The Miz and Morrison will be feuding with The New Day’s Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods going forward. Both teams don’t have matches at SummerSlam. 

NWA-Tessa Blanchard Talks Reportedly At Standstill

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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It looks like Tessa Blanchard won’t be coming to NWA anytime soon despite initial interest.

Fightful Select reports that the NWA showed interest in bringing Blanchard over to the promotion this summer. The report notes that talks have been put to the side for the time being as both sides weren’t able to come to an agreement.

Blanchard has mostly remained on the sidelines since making her nasty exit from Impact Wrestling. It was reported that she hadn’t made a decision regarding wrestling as she was celebrating her marriage to fellow wrestler Daga.

Reports once swirled on Blanchard and Daga potentially making their way to AEW. Nothing has come to fruition on that front.

Back in Sept. 2020, Blanchard broke her silence on her hiatus.

“I’ve been away for a while, the main reason for that is to focus on my wedding & honeymoon. The past few months I’ve gotten back to the basics & been focusing on the relationships I have with family, friends & myself. The point of this post is because I’m taking back the control of my narrative.

“I’ve had people weigh in on what I should do, what I should say, what interview to do, where to go.. now, I want to listen to what I want and what’s in my heart. I am so blessed in so many areas of my life & I am so grateful to have such strong people in my life.”

If Tessa Blanchard returns to wrestling, which promotion do you think she will sign with?

Reigns: Jon Moxley Couldn’t Be The Man In WWE Because I’m Here

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Roman Reigns believes he knows why Jon Moxley could never be the top guy in WWE.

Reigns exploded onto the WWE scene along with Moxley, who was Dean Ambrose on WWE TV, and Seth Rollins. Together, they formed a group known as The Shield. When the group split up, all three men ended up capturing world titles.

As it stands now, Reigns is considered to be the top dog in WWE. Rollins has also established himself as a main eventer. Moxley decided against signing a new contract with WWE and made the jump to AEW.

Reigns is due to defend his WWE Universal Championship against John Cena at SummerSlam this Saturday night (Aug. 20). During an in-ring promo, Cena accused Reigns of nearly ruining Rollins and running Moxley out of WWE.

Reigns spoke to Ariel Helwani of BT Sport and responded to Cena’s claims.

“You tell me. There’s levels to this game man. John has skills, he’s charismatic, he’s a great public speaker, he has good energy, he really understands crowd reaction. When you don’t have good stuff to say, let’s just pander to the crowd and that’s what he did. It’s like a professional watching another professional and I could see, he had nothing to him. He’s just doing that spin game and they’re counting to three with me, let’s say that over. Marketing strategy, let’s condition them and do it 14 times but when it comes down to it there was nothing that he said, there was no connection there. I have no clue.

“Dean is obviously doing what Dean is doing and I think he’s happy over there at AEW but if he could’ve been the man here, he would’ve been the man here. But he couldn’t because I’m the man here. Seth Rollins is going through the same thing but he’s doing great. I can say that as someone who is doing better than him, I’m the Universal Champion, this is all mine, it’s my company. But he’s still a great talent who’s doing the best work of his career so I don’t really know man. It was quite the experience to see him out there, it was just words, a whole bunch of energetic words.”

Moxley is a former AEW Champion. He held that title for 277 days. Many are wondering what’s next for Moxley now that a rumored All Out matchup with IWGP United States Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi appears to be off the table.

What do you think Jon Moxley would be doing if he stood with WWE?

Paul Wight Drops Last-Minute CM Punk Hint Ahead Of AEW Rampage

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Add Paul Wight to the list of people who have teased a CM Punk appearance at AEW Rampage: The First Dance.

The second episode of AEW Rampage takes place tonight (Aug. 20). It’ll be held inside the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. While nothing has been announced, Punk is expected to be making his AEW debut on the show.

Wight appeared on ESPN’s SportsNation and talked about the rumors that have been heating up.

“Tonight is a night on Rampage where in the future, people are going to say ‘Hey do you remember when?’ We’re in Chicago, United Centre, sold out. There’s a lot of rumors going around, a lot of scuttlebutt. There’s an opportunity tonight for someone to make an appearance on Rampage here in AEW that will literally knock the wrestling world on its keister. This is one of the biggest, anticipated events that I can remember in a long time.

“I was trying to think about it today, what is it compared to? Is it compared to Hulk Hogan going to WCW? Does it compare to the nWo? Stone Cold Steve Austin glass breaking Austin 3:16? What kind of an impact, if the rumors are true, will this have on the wrestling business. I can neither confirm nor deny what kind of an impact tonight’s Rampage will have on the wrestling industry for the future.”

Not counting WWE Backstage, CM Punk hasn’t appeared on a wrestling show since 2014. He left WWE following the Royal Rumble PPV. Punk cited a lack of time off, how WWE’s medical team handled his staph infection, and creative frustration when it came to his decision to leave.

Report: Sasha Banks Not At SmackDown, SummerSlam Match Possibly Off

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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The highly anticipated rematch between Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks may not be happening at SummerSlam.

Belair is scheduled to defend her SmackDown Women’s Championship against Banks tomorrow night (Aug. 20). The bout was feared to have been in jeopardy as both Belair and Banks were pulled from consecutive live events. While nothing had been confirmed, speculation of COVID-19 ran rampant.

WWE fans had some good news when it was reported that Belair and Banks were “cleared” to compete this weekend. The good news didn’t last, however.

PW Insider is reporting that Banks isn’t present for the go-home episode of Friday Night SmackDown. Furthermore, there is reportedly backstage talk that the title rematch could be off the SummerSlam card.

Belair is reportedly in Phoenix, Arizona for SmackDown tonight. It’ll be interesting to see whether or not Bianca Belair will get a replacement opponent if Sasha Banks is unavailable. Last week’s episode of SmackDown ended with Banks using Belair’s hair to apply more force to the Bank Statement.

During last week’s contract signing, Carmella and Zelina Vega attacked Belair, leading to Banks locking in the Bank Statement. It’s possible that they could be involved if Belair needs a new opponent for this weekend’s PPV, but of course, that is just speculation at this time.

SEScoops will stay on top of this story as more details become available.

Drew McIntyre Responds To Mick Foley’s Criticism Of Chair Spot

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre has given his response to concerns from Mick Foley.

On the July 19 edition of Monday Night Raw, McIntyre had enough of Jinder Mahal’s cronies, Shanky and Veer. McIntyre stormed the ring with a chair and while Mahal and Veer escaped, Shanky was left alone. McIntyre nailed Shanky with a ton of chair shots to the point where Foley took to his Twitter account to criticize the angle.

Foley expressed his belief that the angle should’ve been saved for a massive feud. Wrestling Inc spoke to McIntyre, who discussed Foley’s issue with the angle.

“I would never gloss over those comments, especially from somebody like Mick. He has helped me dramatically in my career and is someone I have so much respect for, but everyone’s gonna have different opinions, and his was it should be saved for a huge story. To me, this is a huge story. Anything I do, I want to be the biggest story, and if that’s the reasoning behind it, that’s his opinion, and I respect that, but I’m going to do whatever I can to make people look over here and say, ‘Wow, look at what Drew’s doing over here’ and then expect them to take the physicality to that level.

“You screw Drew McIntyre over the one thing he cares about more than anything else, the one thing he’s worked for his entire life, the one thing he held in front of nobody, the thing he wants back, the WWE Title, and Jinder and his guys took that away from him. So imagine what Drew McIntyre’s going to do. He’s going to take the physicality to a level never been seen before, including 34 chair shots.”

McIntyre will go one-on-one with Jinder Mahal at SummerSlam this Saturday night (Aug. 21). Shanky and Veer are banned from ringside. The action will be held inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Kevin Owens: WWE Crew Helped Me During ThunderDome Era

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Kevin Owens has detailed how he got a feel for what was working in the ThunderDome era.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses were forced to adapt. WWE was no exception as full arenas were out of the question. WWE’s answer was the ThunderDome.

Since there were no fans in attendance, it was difficult for the performers to determine what worked. Kevin Owens told ESPN The Game 102.5 that it was the WWE staffers who helped him know what was hitting it off inside the ThunderDome.

“For me, I was lucky in a way because it took me 15 years wrestling on the Independents before I got to WWE. For those 15 years, I ended wrestling in front of very small crowds sometimes, as little as 20 people. When we got into that setting and we were wrestling in front of 15 or 20 crew members and that was about it, it wasn’t that foreign to me.

“What I did, I started using the camera crew, the tech guys, everyone, the announcers…I started using them as my audience because all of those guys have been with WWE for so long. I know that if I’m entertaining them in some way and they come up to me and say, ‘Hey, that’s good stuff,’ they’ve seen it all so I know that I’m putting out quality work and that the people at home are most likely enjoying it as well. That’s how I attacked it.”

WWE has returned to live crowds regularly. The company is gearing up for its biggest show since the pandemic era. While WrestleMania was held inside a stadium at limited capacity earlier this year, SummerSlam will have the higher attendance. The event is being held inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Tony Khan Says The Format Of Tonight’s Rampage Will Be Different

Chris Stephens
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AEW’s “The First Dance” will be the second-ever episode of Rampage. Tony Khan recently appeared on Busted Open Radio and said the format of tonight’s show will not be typical of what fans can expect from typical episodes of the show.

“The format of tonight’s show will be very different,” Khan said (transcription via WrestlingNewsCO). “It’s gonna be different than last week’s Rampage and really different than most Rampages. I think for an average Friday night, it’s gonna be a great wrestling show every Friday on Rampage. I would expect the format [for regular Rampage shows] to be more similar to what we did in the premiere episode than what we do tonight.”

Khan said a big surprise on the show has necessitated the format change.

“It’s gonna be unusual but it’s also gonna be the biggest surprise we ever delivered and that’s why it necessitates a very different format than we’ve done for just a standard wrestling card,” Khan continued.

3 matches have been scheduled for tonight. Jon Moxley will face Daniel Garcia. Jade Cargill will also take on Kiera Hogan. The 4-team tag-team tournament to determine new title contenders also kicks off tonight. Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus will face Private Party in a semi-final match tonight.

It was not specifically mentioned on this week’s Dynamite that there is a big surprise expected on tonight’s show. Several CM Punk teases have been made in recent weeks, however. Khan also alluded to a big planned surprise tonight in the below Tweet:

WWE NXT TakeOver 36 Betting Odds

Andrew Ravens
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The final betting odds have been released for the WWE NXT TakeOver 36. 

The card for the show that takes place this Sunday appears to be finalized as only 5 matches have been announced. It’s possible that a sixth match is added whether that be on the main card or pre-show. 

So far, three normal NXT titles are on the line with two of them expected to change hands. Some of the more notable odds include Cameron Grimes being favored to win the Million Dollar Title from LA Knight. 

WWE NXT TakeOver 36 Odds

As a reminder, we will be providing coverage of the show this Sunday. The favorites to win are listed as – while the underdogs are listed with +. Here are the final betting odds, courtesy of BetOnline:

  • WWE NXT Champion Karrion Kross +200 vs. Samoa Joe -300
  • WWE NXT UK Champion WALTER +125 vs. Ilja Dragunov -175
  • WWE NXT Women’s Champion Raquel Gonzalez -250 vs. Dakota Kai +175
  • Kyle O’Reilly -270 vs. Adam Cole +180 – Best 2 Out Of 3 Falls Match (1st Fall is a Singles Match, 2nd Fall is a Street Fight and the 3rd Fall is a Steel Cage Match)
  • WWE Million Dollar Champion LA Knight +125 vs. Cameron Grimes -120 – If Grimes Loses, Ted Dibiase Becomes Knight’s New Butler

AEW Set To Make 3rd Major Acquisition Following CM Punk & Bryan Danielson (Report)

Chris Stephens
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It is a pretty big time for All Elite Wrestling. Tonight, the promotion holds “The First Dance” in Chicago’s United Center. CM Punk is expected to make his long-awaited return to professional wrestling on the show. Bryan Danielson is also expected to debut in AEW in the not-too-distant future. According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the company has a 3rd “new major acquisition” on their way as well.

“Sources close to the promotion who will be alert to such things also noted: We don’t really have any idea at the moment who this ‘new major AEW acquisition’ could be but we’ll have further updates if and when available.”

With names such as Ric Flair, Adam Cole, and Bray Wyatt available, it is not clear who the new acquisition is.

Cody Rhodes Comments On AEW Signing Big Name Free Agents

AEW has been signing a lot of talent this year. In a recent media interview, SEScoops asked Cody Rhodes about AEW possibly signing Bray Wyatt. Rhodes responded that he believes the company will sign anyone with the potential to be a needle-mover.

“I tell a lot of my peers in wrestling and people I use as a sounding board, I always tell them, ‘you can’t wish away good talent,’ especially when you get in a groove as a talent yourself,” Rhodes said. “And it’s not unlike the world that Tony [Khan] comes from already, the world of the NFL and football in the UK. If there’s a free agent out there that can move the needle and be something significant for us… personally, I think you have to go after them. Does that change the landscape of the show and the roster? For sure, but that’s one of those things where as much as things can get personal, it is business. And no one is immune from that.”

Buddy Murphy Reveals Post WWE Name In New Teaser

Anutosh Bajpai
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Former WWE star Buddy Murphy has posted the latest one of his teaser videos on Twitter today in two parts. He apparently also revealed his post-WWE name with it.

In this latest teaser, the former NXT star is seen getting released from the prison he has been seen inside before. Towards the end of the footage, a Buddy Murphy graphic appears on the screen.

The graphic then changes into Buddy Matthew, revealing the new ring name for the high flying star. What’s interesting to note here is that the name Matthew was referenced in a similar video posted by Malakai Black before his AEW debut:

https://twitter.com/WWE_Murphy/status/1428718010802622465

Buddy Murphy was released by WWE on June 2. Since all main roster stars have a 90 days non-compete clause, he is expected to become a free agent on August 31.

It has been reported before that multiple wrestling promotions are interested in bringing the former 205 Live star in. Potential options for him include companies such as Impact Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling.

Now the big question is if the tie-ins to Black’s videos suggest that Murphy has already made his decision and if we will see the former champion making his AEW debut soon.

Buddy Murphy Facing AEW Star in First Post-WWE Match

Backstage Update On Asuka’s Absence From WWE Programming

Anutosh Bajpai
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Asuka hasn’t been seen on WWE programming in recent weeks. The absence of the former women’s champion has made many fans wonder about her health.

The latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter provides some updates on her situation and confirms that her absence isn’t related to any health reasons.

According to the report, Asuka is fine and the officials are just not using her for anything. She was also present at the recent Raw tapings but left early after learning that she wasn’t going to be used:

“For those asking about Asuka, she is fine. She’s just not being used for anything right now. She was at the Raw tapings early but left early since she wasn’t being used. “

The former champion last wrestled on WWE TV during the Money In The Bank PPV. She competed in the female ladder match which was won by Nikki A.S.H.

Asuka had been involved in the title picture for long before this. She held the Raw women’s championship for 231 days before dropping it to Rhea Ripley at the WrestleMania 37 event earlier this year.

Since her absence is not related to any health issues, the former NXT star shouldn’t stay away for long. Though it’s still hard to say when exactly she will be back on WWE TV.

Asuka Comments On Once Having Given Up On Wrestling

Triple H Comments On If NXT Has Changed Its Recruitment Policy

Chris Stephens
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Triple H spoke with the media following tryouts held in Las Vegas yesterday. When Triple H was asked if the recruitment policy in the company has changed, he said it has not shifted at all despite reports to the contrary.

“It’s a funny thing, people talk about the shifting of what it is. It never really shifted,” Triple H said (transcriptions via Wrestling Inc.). “So if you go back and look at the hiring process, not the hiring process of a television show, the hiring process of who we’re looking to train and make WWE Superstars. Long term. If you go back and look at it, it hasn’t shifted. It’s been the same process. I don’t negate anybody.”

Triple H continued to say that someone would not be denied an opportunity because of having wrestled on the independent scene. He never did mention if someone would be denied an opportunity because of height or size, however.

“Vince used to always say ‘we’re a variety show. We are. In some manner, you need a little bit of everything. That’s the key to all of this. But people hear one statement and then make one (assumption). ‘Now it’s that. No, now it’s this.’ It always has been.”

Triple H would continue to talk about how the company is not looking for professional wrestlers as much as they are superstars. It’s about finding those “diamonds in the rough” who have the potential to do great business for the company.

“You’ll hear Vince say it a lot. It’ll sound wrong to a lot of people, but it’s right. We’re not looking for professional wrestlers, we’re looking for superstars. We’re looking for somebody that can break through that. The rest of it takes care of itself,” Triple H continued.

Several reports recently have stated that WWE’s hiring policy moving forward will place greater emphasis on larger wrestlers who have the potential to “one-day main event WrestleMania.”

NXT’s Relationship With Full Sail University Is Over (Report)

Chris Stephens
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WWE’s NXT brand hasn’t taped inside Full Sail University since September 2020. The shows currently emanate from the WWE Performance Center or the Capitol Wrestling Center as it is referred to on television. According to a report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, NXT will not be returning to Full Sail but rather will be making the CWC its permanent home.

At the conclusion of this week’s NXT, the CWC was destroyed during a brawl between Samoa Joe and Karrion Kross. This will reportedly set the stage for the venue to be upgraded. The reported plan is for the CWC to be lit brighter, as the current belief is it comes off as too dark on television. Also, it is expected that the plexiglass inside will be taken down.

There have also been several rumors regarding a change to NXT’s format. Although this cannot be confirmed, the belief is the program will seek to give younger and less experienced wrestlers more in-ring time. The report in the Observer says the idea is for the show to revert back more to what it was around 2015.

Upcoming episodes of NXT will be taped from the CWC on Monday and Tuesday. Takeover 36 will take place the night after SummerSlam this weekend on the 22nd.

https://twitter.com/WWENXT/status/1428357166314835973

Impact Results (8/19): Christian Cage Returns To The Impact Zone

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling on 8/19 was the go-home show for Emergence, which takes place tonight. The show also featured Christian Cage retiring the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and Joe Doering facing Doc Gallows in the main event.

Impact 8/19 Quick Results:

  1. Sami Callihan & Chris Sabin defeated Moose & Ace Austin
  2. Matt Cardona w/ Chelsea Green defeated Shera w/ Rohit Raju
  3. Melina defeated Brandi Lauren
  4. No Disqualification
    Jake Something defeated Kaleb with a K
  5. Joe Doering defeated Doc Gallows

Sami Callihan Is Ready For Emergence

Former Impact World Champion Sami Callihan was all over the early parts of the show. He came to the aide of his long-time rival Eddie Edwards as the show kicked off with Edwards and his newer rival, W. Morrissey brawled around ringside. Then Callihan teamed with Chris Sabin in the night’s opening contest against Moose and Ace Austin. This match is a preview of the fatal 4-way at Emergence between these 4 wrestlers. The winner of the match will face the winner of Christian Cage vs Brian Myers.

Sabin ended up getting the win for his team after blind-tagging himself in while Callihan was taunting Austin. After the match, Callihan then gave Sabin a piledriver since they will be opponents at Emergence.

Later, Edwards would tell Sami Callihan in the back that he doesn’t want his help.

Matt Cardona Defeats Shera With Help From Chelsea Green

Last week on Impact, Rohit Raju’s distraction caused Matt Cardona to be pinned by John Skyler. This week, Cardona got back in the win column by defeating Shera. Raju tried to get involved on the outside but Chelsea Green thwarted these attempts, allowing Cardona to hit Radio Silence for the win.

Later in the show, it was revealed that Cardona will face Raju tonight at Emergence.

Madison Rayne and Tenille Dashwood are “The Influence”

After aligning last week against Taylor Wilde, Madison Rayne and Tenille Dashwood both had each other as guests on their respective talk shows this week. Madison Rayne’s return means that her Locker Room Talk segment was also brought back. Dashwood was her guest which worked out conveniently because on Dashwood’s “All About Me” talking segment, her guests actually ask her questions as opposed to the other way around. This allowed them to each be the other one’s guest on their own talking segment. The two announced that they are now aligned and using the name “The Influence” for their team.

Christian Cage Returns To The Impact Zone

Christian Cage returned to the Impact Zone this week as the new Impact World Champion. He talked about his history in the promotion and then mentioned that he’d been talking to Scott D’Amore about retiring the TNA World Championship belt. The belt was officially retired and the Impact World Championship declared the top prize in the company.

Cage’s Emergence opponent, Brian Myers, came out to confront the champion. The two came face to face for a moment before Myers pushed his protege, Sam Beale, into Cage. Cage took out Beale but Myers escaped to the outside.

Melina Makes Her Impact Wrestling In-Ring Debut

Melina picked up a win in her Impact in-ring debut. She defeated the former Ava Storie, Brandi Lauren in singles action this week. Lauren wrestled with Impact for a good chunk of 2017 as well. Melina was able to make Lauren submit to the California Dream hold for the win. After the match, however, Melina’s opponent on the NWA Empowerrr PPV, Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo, attacked her from behind.

Drama King Matt came out to help his Homecoming Queen partner. This brought out Trey Miguel to help make the save for Melina, whom he’d run into backstage earlier in the night. Later, a match for Emergence pitting Purrazzo and Drama King against Melina and Miguel was scheduled.

Juice Robinson Was Attacked Backstage

We were shown video of Juice Robinson laying on the ground after having been attacked. It’s not clear who took him out.

Jake Something Defeats Kaleb En Route To X-Division Title Shot

Jake Something wanted a match tonight to get ready for his X-Division Championship match at Emergence. Kaleb with a K happened to be issuing several complaints to Scott D’Amore just as Something was requesting a match, leading him to be chosen as Jake’s opponent. Something would pick up the win after driving Kaleb through a table. After the match, Something and Josh Alexander would have a stare-down as they get ready for their title match at Emergence.

Joe Doering Defeats Doc Gallows In The Main Event

The main event this week pitted Violent By Design’s Joe Doering against the Elite’s Doc Gallows. These two big hosses ended up on the stage area and Gallows hit a sky-high powerbomb on Doering that sent them both crashing through the stage. It looked like the match was over but both big men got up and ended up back in the ring. That’s where Doering hit Gallows with a big lariat and was just able to drap his arm over him to get the pin. If that happens at Emergence, we’ll have new Impact tag team champions.

Lineup For Impact Emergence

  1. Impact World Championship
    Christian Cage (c) vs. Brian Myers
  2. Impact World Tag Team Championships
    The Good Brothers (c) vs. Violent By Design vs. Rich Swann and Willie Mack
  3. X-Division Championship 
    Josh Alexander (c) vs. Jake Something
  4. #1 Contenders Match
    Chris Sabin vs. Sami Callihan vs. Moose vs. Ace Austin
  5. Petey Williams vs. Steve Maclin
  6. Madison Rayne vs. Taylor Wilde
  7. Deonna Purrazzo % Matthew Rehwoldt vs. Melina & Trey Miguel
  8. Matt Cardona (w/ Chelsea Green) vs. Rohit Raju (w/ Shera)
  9. Tasha Steelz, Savannah Evans, Fallah Bahh and No Way vs. Decay (Black Taurus, Crazzy Steve, Rosemary, Havok)

Deonna Purrazzo Would Love to Team With Dr Britt Baker

Alex Laybourne
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With the Forbidden Door now open, the wrestling landscape is full of potential dream matches. We have already seen a few, shared between companies like AEW, NJOW and IMPACT. One other benefit of the forbidden door is the possible pairings we could see forming. This idea was recently discussed by IMPACT Knockouts champion Deonna Purrazzo.

Talking on Busted Open Radio Deonna Purrazzo spoke about the female wrestler she would love to form a team with. She was referring to none other than AEW’s own, Dr Britt Baker D.M.D.

“That’s a dream for Britt and I more so than it probably was for anyone else to begin with. We’ve kind of pushed this narrative that we want to wrestle each other. Whether it happens or not, I’m just happy to see the people I love succeed and the people who deserve to succeed, succeeding. I love everything she’s doing. I love the confidence she has. She’s the baddest bitch on the block, for real. Whether I get to wrestle her or not, that’s a dream come true, but it’s also hard. I’m the Knockouts Champion and now the Reina de Reinas Champion and she’s the AEW Women’s Champion. So, what’s the outcome? I’d rather us be a tag team and no one has to lose their belts. Then, IMPACT will let us be the Knockouts Tag Team Champions, maybe.” Deonna Purrazzo mused.

Deonna Purrazzo Is a Woman on the Rise These Days

While Britt Baker has certainly risen to the challenge offered by AEW, Deonna Purrazzo has equalled her over in IMPACT. Not only is she the Knockouts Champion but recently captured the Reina de Reinas belt at AAA Triplemania.

She is a woman who is fast improving in the ring, and at only 27 years old, she has plenty of time left to mature and become the talent everybody can see she will be.

Much has been said about female use of the Forbidden Door, or rather, the lack of it. The idea of having a tag-team of Deonna Purrazzo and Britt Baker chasing down the IMPACT title belts is mouth-watering. With wrestling being wrestling, that would also mean, at some point down the road, there would be a heel/face turn for one of them, that would set them on course for a 1v1 showdown.

Paul Heyman Addresses Rumors of Backstage Heat With AJ Styles

Alex Laybourne
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Wrestling is an emotional business. Tensions can run high both in the ring and backstage. Talking during a recent interview with Inside the Ropes Paul Heyman addressed recent rumours of backstage heat between him and AJ Styles.

Rumours sparked about a disagreement between Paul Heyman and AJ relating to the release of The Good Brothers. Both Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows are close friends to AJ Styles, predating their time in WWE. The trio was part of the Bullet Club in New Japan Pro Wrestling. A stable they pseudo continued in WWE as The Club.

Addressing their fallout, Paul Heyman was, as always, deliberate with his word choices.

“That is an inaccurate portrayal of what AJ Styles has said,” Heyman said. “AJ Styles has not said that we weren’t on the same page or that we clashed. AJ Styles has been quoted as blaming me for the departure from WWE of Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. That is what AJ Styles has been quoted as saying. He has never made a statement regarding whether or not our collaboration on Monday Night RAW was to his liking or not—and if he wishes to, I’d be happy to accept whatever assessment he had on our time together behind the scenes.”

Paul Heyman Plays a Wide-Reaching Role Backstage in WWE

While many just know Paul Heyman as being the special counsel for Roman Reigns, or the advocate for Brock Lesnar, he also plays a deeper role backstage. It can be hard to keep business and real-life associations separate. Heyman understands this and likens the difference between the boardroom and the wrestling rings to a magic act.

“It’s not for public consumption. Triple H had a very interesting analogy the other day that he and Stephanie love to take their kids to magic shows and that the kids are fascinated by the magic that happens in front of their eyes, despite the fact that they understand it’s a trick. And even though you know it’s a trick, no one wants to see the wires that lift the magician up in the air and bring the magician back down, and I really enjoyed that analogy.”

“Whatever you think of sports entertainment, I’m not here to expose the wires, so whatever happened between Gallows and Anderson happened behind the scenes, behind closed doors in a meeting that I’m not going to expose to the public because it was an inner sanctum meeting with the chairman of the board, Vincent Kennedy McMahon. And unless Vince wants to talk about it publicly, I’m not going to be the one to expose what happened, why, and what the other conversations were in that meeting.”

Paul Heyman is wrestling through and through. He knows there is no place for sentiment when it comes to the business side of things. It is surely no easy task to be in such a dual-sided position.

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