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Tony Khan & Aubrey Edwards To Attend Impact Rebellion PPV

Chris Stephens
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On Sunday, April 25th, 2021, Rich Swann and Kenny Omega will go one-on-one with both the Impact and AEW title belts at stake. AEW’s Tony Khan recently revealed on Busted Open Radio that he plans on attending the PPV. Khan also said he plans on bringing AEW referee Aubrey Edwards along with him.

“I’m going to be coming up to Nashville to maintain order next weekend at [IMPACT Rebellion], that you moved at my suggestion [Laughs]. I’m going to go to UFC with my good friend Dana and then I’ll come to [Rebellion] and make sure that no funny business goes on in this title match. I’m going to bring my own referee, Aubrey (Edwards),” Khan said on Busted Open Radio (transcriptions via Fightful).

The following has been confirmed for tonight’s episode of Impact on AXS TV:

  • Rich Swann and Kenny Omega contract signing
  • Josh Alexander vs TJP
  • Jazz’s retirement ceremony.
  • Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona – Pick your Poison

Impact Rebellion Lineup:

  • AEW World Championship vs Impact World Championship
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Rich Swann
  • Impact Tag Team Championships
    FinJuice (David Finlay & Juice Robinson) (c) vs. The Good Brothers (Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson)
  • X-Division Championship
    Ace Austin (w/Madman Fulton) (c) vs. TJP vs. Josh Alexander
  • Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona

CM Punk On What Wrestling & Horror Fans Have In Common

Chris Stephens
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CM Punk is doing media rounds to promote his new movie Jakob’s Wife. The film will be available on-demand and in select theatres beginning tomorrow. Punk recently spoke to Digital Spy and commented on the similarities between wrestling fans and fans of horror films.

“Horror fans, as well as wrestling fans, will almost die on hills that they normally wouldn’t die on, meaning, ‘I discovered this wrestler first, I discovered this movie first’,” Punk said. 

“And you’re almost not allowed to like it because you weren’t in on the ground floor. Horror movie fans and wrestling fans really are so passionate that they hold what they love near and dear to their heart and they almost want to protect it.”

“Whereas they should want everybody to like it – the more popular it is, the more eyeballs that are on it, the more content you probably get,” he continued.

CM Punk on Horror and Wrestling Fans

Punk continued to say that both horror films and wrestling get a bad reputation from some.

“I think the majority of people will view horror and wrestling as a lower brow entertainment, which, when it is done to the best of its ability, neither are.”

“I think that keeps those fans on the defensive, you know they’re used to having to defend what they love because other people will constantly remind them of, ‘Oh, that’s fake,’ or ‘Oh, that’s just a bunch of blood and boobs’ or whatever.”

The full interview with Punk can be read here. A trailer for Jakob’s Wife is below:

MLW Fusion Results (4/14): 3 Championship Matches

Chris Stephens
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MLW Fusion 4/14 featured 3 championship matches. The Caribbean title, MLW tag-team titles, and the National Openweight Championship were all on the line.

The full show can be viewed in the player below:

MLW Fusion 4/14 Quick Results:

  1. Caribbean Championship
    Richard Holliday (c) defeated Gino Medina
  2. MLW Tag Team Championships
    Los Parks (c) defeated The Dirty Blondes
  3. National Openweight Championship
    Alexander Hammerstone (c) defeated Mil Muertes

Richard Holliday Defends Caribbean Strap Against Gino Medina

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1382472233537433603

This match has been months in the making. Several backstage altercations have taken place between Medina and Holliday, usually with the two disagreeing about how Medina left the Dynasty. Medina says he quit, Holliday says he fired him. They’d finally meet in singles action with the Caribbean title on the line this week.

Medina hit Holliday with his own version of the 2008 but was unable to pin his opponent with it. Shortly after, Medina went crashing face first into an exposed turnbuckle. This allowed Holliday to hit his version of the 2008 to gain the victory.

Los Parks Retain With Help From El Jefe’s Associate

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1382476763612073984

The MLW Tag Team Championships were also on the line this week. Los Parks took on Aria Blake’s Dirty Blondes. Both teams would resort to under-handed tactics in an attempt to gain the advantage in the match. Ultimately, it would be the team from Azteca Underground who would gain the victory.

The Dirty Blondes had gained the advantage thanks to repeated low blows. El Jefe’s associate then lifted up the ring and allowed LA Park Jr. to illegally enter the match. He then gave both members of the Dirty Blondes a low blow and LA Park and El Hijo de LA Park then rolled up their opponents for the victory.

After the match, Salina de la Renta lost her composure and attacked Aria Blake. All the stress El Jefe appears to be placing on her seems to be getting the best of Salina.

Lio Rush vs Myron Reed 2 In The Works

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1382479028381171717

We heard from Injustice’s Myron Reed this week. Reed mentioned that as the former middleweight champion, he’s owed a rematch against Lio Rush. He said he first needed to get Contra out of his way before he cashed in his rematch. Reed also said that going to war with Contra made him a better wrestler and more hungry for his rematch with Rush. Still, no date announced yet for the match, however.

Court Bauer To Appear Next Week

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1382479279905247235

MLW announced this week that Court Bauer will appear next week’s show. They mentioned a potential new TV deal and update on the partnership with DragonGate as reasons for his appearance.

Alexander Hammerstone Defeats Mil Muertes

https://twitter.com/MLW/status/1382482803208683523

Alexander Hammerstone was able to defeat Mil Muertes in the night’s main event. He was able to retake possession of the belt he never lost after giving the Man of 1000s Deaths the Nightmare Pendulum. El Jefe will likely not be pleased with Salina regarding this loss.

After the match, Hammerstone cut a promo and said that next week he is going to hold a press conference to announce some very “Dynastic News.”

Coming Up In MLW

Here is what MLW has scheduled for next week:

  • Court Bauer To Appear
  • Alexander Hammerstone to announce some “Dynastic News”
  • TJP vs Bu Ku Dao

Questionable Authenticity: The Young Bucks’ Dior x Nike Air Jordan 1’s

Alex Laybourne
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The Young Bucks kicked off Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite by cutting a promo about their decision to align with Kenny Omega and company last week. The Bucks are now working as heels and introduced new ring gear to signify their new attitudes.

Nick and Matt Jackson sported Jordan 1 Retro High Dior sneakers this week. The shoes sell for upwards of $10,000 on the secondary sneaker market.

Some eagle-eyed fans on social media were quick to point out that the Young Bucks’ Jordan 1 Retro High Diors might not be authentic. Sneaker aficionado @Richiedge is convinced the Jackson brothers were rocking fakes.

It’s interesting that this ‘controversy’ occurred just as the Bucks were solidifying their heel turn. Was this fashion faux pas an oversight, or was it really a very clever move that shows the depths to which some wrestlers are willing to go in order to play their characters?

Designing the Perfect Heel

Spending $10,000 on sneakers could be perceived as a heel move. However, if the shoes are in fact fraudulent, there could be other forces at work.

Could Excalibur’s insistence that Don Callis is literally human garbage could point to the fakes being a planned spot? After all, great professional wrestling is about great storytelling just as much as it is the action in the ring.

Could it be that the Bucks’ new designer shoes were a gift from Callis? A device to further highlight his slimy and underhanded nature? He is, after all, a bold-as-brass coward, and an even bigger snake than Jake has ever met. Kitting out his guys in fake designer gear would be a perfect fit.

Whether true or not, you could easily see the story being spun that way now, and fair play for it. Creativity is important to AEW and well, let’s face it, you’ve got to give the people what they want.

Great heels were becoming a thing of the past, and the universal loathing for Kenny Omega and the new Super Elite is a throwback to the days when a heel was booed and loathed to the very core of a wrestling fans heart.

Franky Monet/Taya Valkyrie Comments On Name Change

Chris Stephens
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Taya Valkyrie is now Franky Monet. She had been wrestling under her previous name for more than a decade. As is often the case, however, she changed it for her debut under the WWE NXT banner.

Monet recently took to Twitter to comment on her name change.

“Hey guys, I LOVE MY NAME…..maybe since I picked it. Go figure!” she Tweeted. “I could be called Sunshine Tuna and I would make it work!!! So take a breath, stop complaining and enjoy this evolution and ride with me. Thanks”

Ey5bCzhWgAg5X08.jpg small

She also explained her reasons for the name.

“Monet for the French artist, Franky because I’ve always loved unisex names and I think it’s super cute, spunky and different,” she Tweeted.

The name “Sunshine Tuna” seemed to gain traction online.

“And for the record, nobody was going to name me Sunshine Tuna, it was just an example,” Monet continued. “The name does not make the wrestler. One that’s powerful and strong helps of course but just know we all think long and hard about these things. I’m me, la WERA LOCA. Always, now, forever.”

Her comments led Peyton Royce to reflect on what her WWE name almost was:

Chris Jericho: AEW Drove NXT Screaming & Yelling Away From Wednesdays

Alex Laybourne
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Nothing seems to polarize wrestling fans more than the concept of a ratings war. The recent Wednesday Night Wars is no different. It’s easy to understand why this concept gained such traction, with all of the similarities to the famous Monday Night Wars. AEW the young upstart, with lots of talent vocalizing their frustration at being caught in the WWE doldrums.

Yet, an argument could be made that there never was such a war, as wrestling is a singular affair, and regardless of company is there for everybody to enjoy. Which side is right? In many ways, both and none are correct. That’s why it is so much fun to be a wrestling fan at this point in time.

It goes without saying therefor that the recent announcement that NXT was moving from Wednesday to Tuesday was greeted by many as a surrender of sorts, with WWE conceding to AEW, for that timeslot at least. The numbers don’t lie, and AEW were pulling in the dominant ratings each week.

The GOAT Declares Victory

One man who was quick and clear when it came to voicing his opinion on the matter was wrestling legend and certain hall of famer Chris Jericho. The G.O.A.T, who was big part of the Monday Night Wars also, wasted no words when talking to Forbes.com claiming that AEW sent NXT screaming and yelling to the safety of a Tuesday night.

“Yes, we wanted to beat NXT,” Jericho declared. “Yes, we wanted to drive them screaming and yelling away from Wednesdays and we did that.”

It’s interesting to think that Chris Jericho wrestled for both WCW and WWE during the Monday Night War period, and now, despite being a WWE star appeared on the WWE network recently with an appearance on the Broken Skull Ranch podcast.

Either way, his words speak volumes about the drive AEW’s stars have to make their company stand tall and proud.

The Young Bucks Comment On “Babyfaces & Heels” In AEW

Chris Stephens
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Matt & Nick Jackson, the Young Bucks, are now “bad guys” in AEW. They have aligned with Don Callis, changed their in-ring style, changed their gear, and have made what some might call a “full heel turn.”

The Young Bucks were recently interviewed by TSN, AEW’s Canadian broadcast partner. During the interview, Matt Jackson spoke about what wrestling fans are used to as it concerns “babyfaces & heels” in wrestling.

“I always want to be involved in weird, nuanced, multi-layered stories and maybe sometimes the subtleties that I like to have in my storylines won’t translate with a pro wrestling audience,” Matt Jackson said to TSN. “Pro wrestling audiences are so conditioned to [the idea] that it’s good or it’s bad. It’s babyface or it’s heel, and that’s the way it’s been historically forever and how dare you change that or try something differently because it’s like you’re breaking the laws of wrestling. It’s one of those things where you have to try to find a balance, where you want to tell compelling stories, but at the same time, you don’t want people to miss the things you’re trying to do.”

The Young Bucks on AEW’s PPV Schedule

Nick Jackson also spoke about AEW’s schedule of running 4 PPVs a year.

“We enjoy taking the three months to build a proper program and things like that because I feel like the payoff – which is the pay-per-view – makes it seem like a bigger thing,” said Nick Jackson. “I feel like that’s why we’ve kept getting 100,000-plus buys every three months because we make it feel special.”

The Young Bucks On Why It Was Time To Turn Heel

As for why it was time for the Young Bucks to turn heel, Matt Jackson offered up the following explanation:

“Especially with us, because we’re executives at this company – we’re executive vice-presidents of AEW – and we told everybody that we helped put together the tag-team division, so it’s really hard for people to look at us as those same punk-rock Young Bucks that we were years ago, the ones that spat in the face of tradition – the ones that broke all the rules. It’s hard to break the rules when you’re the ones making the rules now.”

Sin Cara Eager to Work with Cody Rhodes and AEW

Alex Laybourne
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Former WWE star Sin Cara has been talking about his interest in working with AEW. Talking in an interview the Mexican star said that while he had not been contacted just yet, he is open to talks and ready to make the move to the Florida based promotion should opportunity come calling.

I’m excited for the future and if they ever contact me, I’m here. He knows my number, Cody knows my number. Lot of the boys there know my number.

Sin Cara’s interest is not a surprising move given the exposure AEW is getting and their willingness to let stars wrestle for other promotions also. Since his departure from WWE the luchador has changed his gimmick to Cinta de Oro a character that has been represented by several wrestlers over the years.

With AEW already boasting a wealth of Latin talent and ties to AAA there is clear potential for the star to talk his way into a match or two. His recent twitter post hinted at something maybe being in the works.

Could a Troubled History with Jericho Hinder an AEW Run?

The only thing that might make AEW hesitant to offer the star a shot is his history as being a bit of a hothead behind the scenes. He was famously instructed to undergo anger management therapy during his WWE run, after altercations with Simon Gotch and more worryingly, Chris Jericho.

With wrestling being a business where who you know is very important, the sin (Cara) of the past may return to hamper his future.

Time will tell if there will be a debut in his future, but with such a wealth of talent already filling out the different AEW shows, you have to wonder if they need a man who was never anything more than a low mid-tier talent.

More Wrestling Promotions Likely To Announce National TV Deals Soon

Chris Stephens
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There is at least a 2-hour wrestling program on national television every night of the week at the moment. RAW on Monday, NXT on Tuesday, AEW on Wednesday, Impact on Thursday, and Smackdown on Friday. According to comments made on Wrestling Observer Radio, at least one more promotion is about to announce a national television deal shortly.

“There’s going to be at least one more pro-wrestling promotion’s going to have a national deal, any minute now too,” said Dave Meltzer. “So there are two deals that – I don’t know if they are signed signed, but there are two deals that are very, very close that should be announced any minute now, I guess, any minute, any week. Closer to a minute than a week.”

Nothing was said about which promotions he was referring to. Some speculation can be made, however. MLW’s Court Bauer has been teasing that his promotion has signed a new deal.

https://twitter.com/courtbauer/status/1380251831331340291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1380251831331340291%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sportskeeda.com%2Fpro-wrestling%2Fnews-mlw-ceo-court-bauer-makes-huge-announcement

There have also been several rumors in recent months regarding a national television deal for New Japan Pro Wrestling as well. AXS TV as well as other channels were said to be in the mix.

“There are significant talks involving New Japan returning to AXS television. AXS was wanting the programming back, and it would likely involve more dealings with New Japan and Impact, as the Juice Robinson & David Finlay debut as regulars show,” wrote Dave Meltzer in late February. 

“Regarding the talks with AXS, the company is in talks right now with a number of U.S. stations, AXS being one of them,” wrote Dave Meltzer the following week. 

Eva Marie’s WWE Return: “You Better Believe Your Girl Is Coming Through”

Alex Laybourne
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Former WWE Superstar Eva Marie is looking forward to getting back into the squared circle, but insists she’s waiting for the right moment to launch her comeback.

“I would love to definitely step back into the ring, it just has to be the right time, and the right moment, and if that opportunity arises, you better believe your girl is coming through,” she told Muscle and Fitness in a recent interview.

Eva Marie, the most ravishing redhead since Jessica Rabbit, has been a much talked about wrestler during her time with WWE. While she has a lot of fans, not many of them were ever behind her in-ring ability. Perhaps a return to action after a five-year hiatus will see her bring a new attitude and level of technical prowess with her.

If her Instagram feed is anything to go by, she is certainly putting in the hard work, training together with Parker Boudreaux down at the WWE Performance Center.

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

Eva Marie’s WWE Future

While Eva Marie didn’t necessarily leave WWE under any dark cloud, there are many who would question whether a wrestler with her limited skills warrants a place on the roster of any WWE brand given the high quality of talent they already have available.

One such option could be a return to the ring in the form of a valet, with her new training partner Parker Boudreaux being a prime candidate.

Whether you love her or hate her, the tenacity of Eva Marie cannot be questioned. She always held her head high as she worked her matches and stood tall in the face of quite stern criticism from the WWE universe. It couldn’t have been easy for her especially once she started to bounce between the main roster and NXT before it was considered a core part of the brand.

One thing is for sure, she has kept in shape during her time away, and a return would certainly add a splash of color to what can sometimes be rather bland shows.

The Miz Shows Off His ‘WrestleMania Bod’ In Striking Before & After Photos

Alex Laybourne
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When it comes to all-around improvement in the wrestling business, there aren’t many who have changed more positively in recent years than The Miz. He’s a wrestler who still has many critics, but there is no denying the passion that the man brings to everything he does.

The once again reality TV star was often ridiculed and marginalized when he first entered the squared circle. However, over the years his work ethic and dedication have seen him grow into one of the better wrestlers on the WWE roster. He has demonstrated his ability and been able to build a brand that extends beyond the ring.

While The Miz might not have the cleanest skills or the widest-ranging arsenal of moves, but he consistently delivers, and has nailed the heel persona perfectly. He is without question of the better active superstars when given the mic and a chance to rant. His shoot style altercation with Daniel Bryan on Talking Smack back in 2016 remains one of the most believable and compelling promos in recent memory.

The Miz: Consistent, Reliable Workhorse

With his mic skills on point, his in-ring ability consistently improving there was only one thing left for the superstar, and that was to up his physique.

In a recent social media post, The Miz took the time to show off his new chiseled physique. The former WWE Champion reveals that he went from 220 pounds in January to 206 pounds this week. It wasn’t easy, but the results speak for themselves.

The ‘Awesome’ one has proven once again that he deserves not only to be where he is, but to be considered one of the best in the business right now.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNp7UhXh_-j/

The Miz has held a total of twenty championship reigns in WWE. He was the first two-time grand slam champion in company history. The man is a draw who knows how to market himself.

With his new physique, you can expect to see him dominating in the ring. While he is already 40, there is a lot of life in the character yet, so expect to see more accolades attached to what is undoubtedly a hall of fame career.

Andrade Teases the Return of La Sombra In New Video

Alex Laybourne
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Ever since his release from WWE last month speculation has been rife about where Andrade is likely to head. The talented superstar has a history on both sides of the globe where is he held in high regard by Japanese and Mexican fans.

If a recent tweet from the Mexican star is anything to go by, it is exactly these two countries where he is most likely to head. A video tweeted by Andrade showed a collection clips from his past mainly featuring moments from Mexico and Japan.

What is most interesting is the first clip in the collection that showed his unmasking at the hands of Atlantis back at the CMLL anniversary show in 2015, and the words the third-generation wrestler used.

“I’m back and it’s time to remember who I was and travel the world to achieve my goals.“

Could We See a Return of The Shadow?

If those words are a portent of anything, then maybe we will not be ‘seeing’ Andrade any time soon if he returns to his previously successful masked persona.

There are strong ties for La Sombra to both Mexico (with CMLL) and Japan (with NJPW) as he was the man who created the Los Ingobernables the stable where Tetsuya Naito spent his time during his excursion and led to the creation of the LIJ (Los Ingobernables de Japon) faction. With the forbidden door now wide open, this connection already has great storytelling potential.  

It has already been confirmed that Andrade was not subject the normal 90 post release clause, whcih means fans could have the answers they seek sooner rather than later.

AEW Dynamite Results (4/14): Two Title Matches, Mike Tyson Appears

Robert Lentini
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0

AEW Dynamite aired from Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida. Young Bucks put their AEW Tag Team Championships on the line against PAC & Rey Fenix tonight. Darby Allin defended the TNT Championship against Matt Hardy in a Falls Count Anywhere match in the main event.

Dynamite Results (4/14):

  1. Young Bucks def. PAC & Rey Fenix to retain the AEW Tag Team Championships
  2. Jade Cargill def. Red Velvet
  3. Anthony Ogogo def. Cole Karter
  4. Chris Jericho def. Dax Harwood
  5. Kris Statlander def. Amber Nova
  6. Darby Allin def. Matt Hardy in a Falls Count Anywhere match to retain the TNT Championship

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

Young Bucks Retained

Young Bucks defended their AEW Tag Team Championships against PAC and Rey Fenix in the first match of the night. Don Callis accompanied Matt and Nick Jackson to the ring.

Pac and Matt Jackson started off the action. The two traded holds before Fenix and Nick tagged in. Nick and Rey both went for a Dropkick at the same time and then Nick connected with a Clothesline as the tag team division was shown watching the match in the crowd.

Fenix and Pac unloaded several kicks to Matt until he fell to the canvas. Fenix went for the cover but Matt kicked out at two. Matt tripped up Rey and knocked Pac off the apron before tagging Nick Jackson back into the match.

Nick booted Rey in the face and slammed him to the canvas. Nick took a break to smile for the camera and showed off his DIOR boots as the crowd chanted “those are fake!”. Young Bucks leveled Fenix a couple Dropkicks for a two count.

Pac tagged in and connected with a Brainbuster for a two count. Pac hit Matt in the chest with a few kicks but Nick tripped him up. Matt capitalized on the distraction with a Dropkick through the ropes. Young Bucks then Powerbombed Pac and Fenix onto the ring apron.

Nick sent Pac to the turnbuckle and followed it up with a knee to the face. When Dynamite returned from a commercial break, Nick slammed Rey to the floor outside the ring and Young Bucks isolated Pac in the corner of the ring. Matt mocked Pac before leveling him with a Clothesline.

Matt hit another Clothesline and continued to mock him and the crowd in attendance. Pac responded with a Clothesline and slowly made his way to the corner. Fenix and Nick tagged in and Rey connected with a Crossbody.

Fenix crotched Nick on the top rope and followed it up with an incredible springboard Hurricanrana. Fenix connected with a Cutter and went for the cover but Nick was able to kick out at the last second. Pac tagged in and hit a Blue Thunder Bomb for a near fall.

Pac followed it up with a German Suplex for another two count. Pac made his way to the top rope but Nick brought him down. Rey hit Matt with a Superkick but turned around into a Destroyer from Nick Jackson.

Matt and Pac traded punches in the middle of the ring. The two then battled on the apron and to the floor. Rey hit Matt with a reverse Hurricanrana and followed it up with a Cutter to Nick Jackson. Back in the ring, Pac drove Matt to the corner and perched him up on the top turnbuckle.

Fenix tagged in as Pac hit a Superplex. Rey connected with a Frog Splash and went for the cover but Matt kicked out at two. Pac tagged back in and hit the Black Arrow but Nick broke up the pin. Nick dragged Matt to the corner and tagged himself in. Nick ran into a kick to the face but hit Pac with a low blow.

Fenix tagged in and Matt leveled him with a Superkick. Nick Jackson ripped Rey’s mask off and Young Bucks hit him with a double Superkick for the pinfall victory. Young Bucks are still the AEW Tag Team Champions.

Jade Cargill def. Red Velvet

Jade Cargill squared off against Red Velvet in the 2nd match of the evening. Red Velvet went right after Jade to start off the action. Red Velvet hit a kick to the face and sent Jade out of the ring. Red Velvet connected with a Suicide Dive but Jade launched her into the barricade. Jade hit a Fallaway Slam that sent Red Velvet over the barricade and into the crowd.

Cargill planted Red Velvet with a Suplex as Dynamite went to a commercial break. When Dynamite returned, Cargill went for a Spear and wound up hitting the ring post. Red Velvet connected with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Facebuster.

Red Velvet hit a standing Moonsault and went for the cover but Jade kicked out at two. Red Velvet made her way to the top rope and went for a Moonsault but Cargill got out of the way. Cargill followed it up with the Jaded for the pinfall victory.

Opinion: Both Jade Cargill and Red Velvet were great in this match. Cargill has incredible potential and can easily become the face of AEW’s women’s division.

Anthony Ogogo Debuted With A Win

Anthony Ogogo faced Cole Karter tonight. Ogogo drove Karter to the corner of the ring and hit him with a chop to the chest. Karter hit an Arm Drag but Ogogo decked him with a punch to the ribs. The referee quickly stopped the match and awarded Ogogo the win.

Jericho def. Dax Harwood

Chris Jericho faced Dax Harwood tonight on Dynamite. Mike Tyson was the special guest enforcer for the match. MJF tried to bribe Tyson backstage with a blank check but Tyson ripped it up and ate it.

Harwood and Jericho started the match off by trading punches in the middle of the ring. Jericho got the better of the exchange and sent Dax out of the ring. Jericho grabbed a steel chair and went to hit Dax but Mike Tyson broke it up. Harwood capitalized and unloaded some chops to Jericho.

Dax trash talked with Tyson and Jericho capitalized by sending Harwood into the barricade. Harwood and Jericho then traded punches in the crowd before the action returned to the ring.

Jericho hit Harwood with several Clotheslines in the corner and followed it up with another one that knocked Dax out of the ring. Harwood hit Jericho with a microphone and threw him into the barricade. Jericho then grabbed a pen and stabbed Dax with it. Jericho connected with a Body Slam and took the camera away from the cameraman.

Dax flipped Jericho off before the action returned to the ring. Harwood and Tyson started arguing again as Dynamite went to a break. Harwood was still in control when Dynamite returned. Jericho battled back with a couple shoulder tackles as Sammy Guevara looked on from ringside.

Jericho hit a Bulldog and followed it up with a Lionsault for a near fall. Le Champion leveled Harwood with a Clothesline for another two count. Harwood battled back and planted Jericho with a Powerbomb for a two count. Dax went for a Flying Headbutt but Jericho dodged it and Dax crashed to the canvas. Jericho then applied the Liontamer but Wheeler broke it up with a cheap shot.

Sammy Guevara beat Wheeler down outride the ring as Harwood hit a Brainbuster for a two count. Jericho responded with a Codebreaker as The Pinnacle battled with Inner Circle on the entrance ramp. Sammy tackled MJF as Wheeler brought a baseball bat on the apron. Tyson leveled Cash with a punch to the face as Jericho connected with the Judas Effect for the pinfall victory.

Kris Statlander Dominated In Her In-Ring Return

Kris Statlander returned to action tonight against Amber Nova. Best Friends & Orange Cassidy were ringside for the match. Statlander connected with an Arm Drag and followed it up with a Powerslam. Amber Nova started smacking Kris in the face and Statlander responded with a slam. Statlander followed it up with a Senton and an uppercut in the corner. Statlander connected with a knee to the face and a Piledriver for the pinfall victory.

Powerhouse Hobbs Attacked Christian Cage

Tony Schiavone interviewed Christian Cage tonight on Dynamite. Cage said this was the first time he had an interview with Tony and it was a huge deal for him. Team Taz immediately interrupted and bitched about Cage not responding to his offer to join the team. Taz asked if Cage wanted to join or not and Christian said Team Taz is a dumpster fire. Christian added that he doesn’t come to AEW to fix Taz’s problems, he came here to win titles.

Taz called Cage “shitbag” and claimed Christian just made the biggest mistake of his life. Taz added that he never liked Christian’s buddy that carried him his entire career as well. Will Hobbs then made his way to the ring and tried to attack Christian. Cage hit a couple punches but Powerhouse Hobbs shrugged them off. Hook distracted Christian and Hobbs connected with a Clothesline. Hobbs slammed Christian into the barricade a couple times before slamming him to the floor outside the ring.

Darby Allin Retained In A Wild Falls Count Anywhere Match

Darby Allin put the TNT Championship on the line against Matt Hardy in a Falls Count Anywhere match in this week’s main event. Hardy brought a steel chair into the ring and hit Allin across the back as he went for a Coffin Drop. Matt bounced Darby’s face off the ring apron several times as the crowd chanted “Hardy sucks!”.

Matt took a seat on the steel chair in the middle of the ring and started taunting Darby. Allin tried to battle back but Matt connected with a Neckbreaker for a near fall. Hardy put Darby’s head on the steel chair and went for a Twist of Fate but Darby escaped.

Allin hit Hardy with the steel chair a few times and Butcher, Blade, and Private Party rushed the ring. Butcher hit Allin with a trash can as Dark Order joined the party. The Hardy Family Office and Dark Order brawled as Sting made his way to the ring. Sting Clotheslined Private Party out of the ring as Dynamite went to a break.

Hardy Suplexed Allin onto a trash can during the break as Sting beat Blade down. Allin battled back with some punches and bashed the trash can over Matt’s head. Allin and Matt were still battling outside the ring when Dynamite returned.

Matt launched Allin into the barricade and the TNT Champion crashed to the floor. Scorpio Sky and Ethan Page tried to attack Sting but Lance Archer got in the way. Sting and Archer stared at each other in the ring before Lance hit Kassidy with the Blackout.

Sting gave Darby Allin the baseball bat and went backstage. Hardy caught Allin with a low blow and hit a Twist of Fate as Darby’s head was in the steel chair. Matt went for the cover but Darby kicked out a two. Matt brought Allin backstage and set up a ladder next to a table.

Hardy put Allin on top of the table and hit him with several punches. Matt climbed up the ladder and hit a Leg Drop through the table for a two count. Matt brought Darby to the edge of the stage and went for a Powerbomb but Allin escaped. Allin then hit Matt with a low blow and retrieved the baseball bat.

Hardy put Allin on top of the table and hit him with several punches. Matt climbed up the ladder and hit a Leg Drop through the table for a two count. Matt brought Darby to the edge of the stage and went for a Powerbomb but Allin escaped. Allin then hit Matt with a low blow and retrieved the baseball bat.

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Darby beat Matt down with the baseball bat and put him on top of the announce table. Allin then connected with a massive Coffin Drop for the pinfall victory. Darby Allin is still the TNT Champion.

Ivelisse Alleges Misconduct Following Release From AEW

Alex Laybourne
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While Diamante went to war with Thunder Rosa in one of the co-main events of AEW Dark Elevation on Monday night, there was one figure who was decidedly absent. Diamante’s tag-team partner Ivelisse was no where to be seen.

The wrestling star has since confirmed that she has been released from the promotion. This is not the first time the Puerto Rican wrestler has been released by a company. Similarly, it is not the first time she has seemingly done so with bad blood.

The 33-year-old was last seen on AEW on March 2nd in a losing effort. Her disappearance was noticed, with reports circulating that it was due to a conflict with some of the AEW coaches. The star did send out a tweet, which was later deleted, that hinted at a problematic relationship with her employers.

This is the third time Ivelisse has had a rocky departure from a major wrestling organization. After her termination with WWE, which she claimed came after she attempted to report Bill DeMott. She then joined Lucha Underground, from whom she split after five years. She and several other wrestlers filed a class action lawsuit against the company.

Ivelisse in AEW: A New Start

Ivelisse’s stint with AEW began back in 2018 and allowed her to carry on working for other promotions. AEW confirmed she was working on an appearance basis rather then on a fixed contract.

For AEW, claims such as this are something they will face as they continue to grow as an organization.

While for Ivelisse, people could easily cast her as the troublemaker, yet with Bill DeMott since resigning over multiple other allegations, and Lucha Undergrounds problems being well publicised, a case could be made that she has simply been dealt a rough hand in her career.

Whatever the reason for her departure, she is keeping busy in various promotions as shown on her Instagram page. She’s a solid worker in the ring and is the current SHINE champion, having held the belt for almost five hundred days.

Reality TV Star Paola Mayfield to Make Professional Wrestling Debut

Alex Laybourne
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The world of reality tv and professional wrestling have crossed paths numerous times over the years. Not counting the reality shows of existing wrestling stars, there have been a few who have made the transition from reality tv to the wrestling ring.

Mike ‘The Miz’ Mizanin is one such star who is arguable one of the biggest (and certainly most improved) wrestlers around. However, he had better move over as there is a new TV star preparing to take his place as the reality TV champion.

Paola Mayfield, a former cast member on TLC’s 90 Day Fiancée, took to Instagram to announce to the world that she had been training and was ready to compete in her first professional wrestling match.

The 33-year-old reality star will assume the character of Paola Blaze when she makes her debut on May 1st for Magic City Wrestling Federation (MCWF) in Miami. Former WWE Superstars Carlito, Primo & Epico and Chris Masters are also booked for the show. Tickets are now available at Eventbrite.

Paola Mayfield’s Road To The Squared Circle

The announcement was a surprise with Mayfield’s route to the squared circle coming via somewhat unconventional means. The Colombian mother of one started her professional career as a shoe designer in her native Colombia. Since then, she has been a reality TV star, a fitness instructor, nutrition coach and even a Zumba instructor.

With a health and fitness background the transition to professional wrestling is at least a tangible direction for her to move. If her recent Instagram posts are anything to go by, she’s putting in the work and has a solid base of moves to build from.

Does she have what it takes to make it in the world of professional wrestling? Who knows, after all, DDP was in his mid-30’s when he started wrestling too.

You can see footage of Paola Mayfield’s wrestling training in this highlight reel from her Instagram page:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CM3GK-7HyNM/

John Cena Featured In Fast & The Furious 9 Trailer

Chris Stephens
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A new trailer has been released for the upcoming latest installment in the Fast and the Furious franchise. The film is tentatively scheduled for release sometime in June. The film is 1 of 3 involving Cena that is currently in post-production.

The film’s newest trailer can be viewed in the player below:

Cena plays the role of Jakob Toretto in the film.

“Cypher enlists the help of Jakob, Dom’s younger brother to take revenge on Dom and his team,” reads an IMBD description of the film.

The film’s premiere has been pushed back a year due to the pandemic.

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John Cena in Fast & Furious 9

Cena wouldn’t say whether his character is the antagonist of the film during an interview with Entertainment Tonight.

“We’ll leave it for the audience, we’ll leave it for the Fast family around the world to decide who’s bad and who’s good,” Cena said. “Keep in mind, the trailer shows just enough for you to have a ton of questions — and me not to be able to answer any of them!”

“That’s fair,” Vin Diesel added. “You’re going to have to decide. Like, all the characters in this saga, they are multidimensional and there are no cookie-cutter characters. They all have layers, as we’ve seen… But we’re so excited about this!”

Paul Wight Teases ‘Captain Insano’ Might Appear In AEW

Chris Stephens
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Paul Wight recently took part in an interview with Miro for the latter’s YouTube channel. During the discussion, Wight spoke about his character from Adam Sandler’s Waterboy, Captain Insano. According to Wight, we could see the character in AEW at some point.

The film was released in 1998 and according to Wight’s comments, Tony Khan is friends with one of the creators.

“You know, Captain Insano might be coming around again,” Wight said when asked about the character by Miro. “Tony Khan is really good friends with one of the writers or creators of Waterboy. The whole Captain Insano character, I think Tony’s trying real hard to get the rights to that and do something with it.”

Wight also mentioned that he told Khan he would be excited to portray the character in AEW.

“I told Tony if you get Captain Insano, I’ll rock the ever loving tits out of it,” Wight continued. “I’ll get the red boots, the whole 9 yards, Captain Insano shows no mercy, brother!”

AEW filed to trademark “Captain Insano” last month. The purposes of the trademark were listed as ““Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer.”

Watch Paul White’s discussion with AEW star Miro:

Triller Purchases FITE PPV Streaming Platform

Michael Reichlin
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TrillerNet has announced the acquisition of PPV streaming platform FITE. The following press release was sent in to SEScoops:

TrillerNet Acquires Premier Live Event and PPV, SVOD, AVOD and Streaming Platform FITE, Taking Major Next Step in Building Global Content Ecosystem

Will Use FITE’s Worldwide Platform to Expand Triller Fight Club and Develop Premium Four-Quadrant Entertainment and Lifestyle Content

LOS ANGELES (April 14, 2021) —— TrillerNet (aka Triller Hold Co LLC), parent company of the global AI-driven short video social app Triller, today announced it has acquired FITE, the premier global live-event and Pay-Per-View, SVOD and AVOD and streaming platform for sports and entertainment.

The deal gives Triller a major foothold in the live-event PPV and streaming space, greatly expanding the reach of Triller’s fast-growing AI-powered content and distribution ecosystem and allowing the company to continue to invest in new lifestyle and entertainment programming.

“FITE has been a fantastic partner, and the synergy between the two businesses and teams was clear from day one,” said Bobby Sarnevesht, Chairman and Co-owner of Triller, and Ryan Kavanaugh, Co-owner of Triller, jointly. “With our acquisition of FITE, we bring into TrillerNET their stellar technology, valuable customer and content partner base, and one of the most experienced executive teams in this space. The deal represents our ambitions to not only expand Triller Fight Club and grow FITE’s distribution relationships, but also to reimagine what, how and when premium music, sports and entertainment is delivered to today’s audiences.”

“Triller has an exceptionally visionary executive team that is revolutionizing the world of sports and entertainment. We are very excited to be a part of and play a role in this process,” said Kosta Jordanov, FITE Co-Founder and CEO. “As part of the TrillerNet, FITE will become the exclusive global digital distributor of all Triller Fight Club events going forward, and this content relationship is planned to expand in exciting new ways. We will continue to work with and serve all our content partners, and we look forward to bringing Triller’s significant user base and promotional clout to all the major events we carry on the FITE platform.”

Triller is used by musicians, athletes, digital talent and other culture-setters and serves hundreds of millions of fans worldwide while also providing specialized opportunities for major brands across music, sports, entertainment, fashion and pop culture. The addition of FITE is a key strategic addition as Triller seeks to capture the burgeoning ‘culture graph,’ the next generation of creators and users leading the move to Internet 3.0.

“With over 10 million users, FITE is the perfect long-form platform for Triller to continue releasing its cultural content spanning fighting, sports, fashion, music and pop culture,” added Ryan Kavanaugh. “We have officially completed our 360-degree content engine with this acquisition.”

The FITE acquisition is the latest major move for TrillerNet, which on March 9 acquired leading live-music streaming platform Verzuz, the popular live streaming music platform founded by music stars Swizz Beats and Timbaland. TrillerNet also owns Triller Flight Club, a live-event platform in partnership with Snoop Dogg that reimagines boxing as four-quadrant entertainment, and TrillerTV, a long-form content streaming platform with more than 65 original half-hour digital series from trendsetters such as Jennifer Lopez, The D’Amelio Family, 2 Chainz, Jake Paul, Perez Hilton and others.

With over 10 million users and 4 million registered sports and entertainment fans, FITE has streamed over 5,000 live events over the past 5 years. FITE’s partners include the most elite combat sports brands including Top Rank, AEW, PBC, ONE Championship, WWE, Impact, Golden Boy Promotions, and Matchroom Boxing. FITE has one of the industry’s most scalable and reliable live digital streaming capabilities, a large loyal audience for premium events, and content relationships with over 300 sports rights holders across 5 continents. In collaboration with its partners, FITE has already streamed the biggest names in combat sports, including Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Mike Tyson, Tyson Fury, Canelo Alvarez, Gennady Golovkin, Roy Jones Jr., Deontay Wilder, Terance Crawford, Errol Spence Jr., Teofimo Lopez and Vasyl Lomachenko among hundreds of others as well as the boxing matches of YouTube celebrities KSI, Logan Paul, and Jake Paul. The investors in FITE include Earlybird Digital East, LAUNCHub Ventures, Tim Draper, and BrightCap who have now joined the list of investors in Triller.  

The Miz Praises Bad Bunny’s WrestleMania Performance

Chris Stephens
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Bad Bunny’s performance at WrestleMania 37 has drawn positive reviews from fans, wrestlers, and others in the industry. The Miz recently spoke to TMZ and praised the work his WrestleMania opponent did.

“Not only did he earn my respect, I think he earned the WWE Universe’s respect,” The Miz said regarding Bad Bunny. “I think he earned backstage’s respect. I think he earned everybody’s respect in what some are calling ‘The Best Celebrity Match at WrestleMania in History!'”

Bad Bunny will be focussing on his music again for at least the foreseeable future. Miz is hopeful to see him back in a WWE ring sometime soon, however.

“Ya never know when he’ll come back! I think he had a great experience, I think everyone had a great experience with him.”

“This guy has a hundred dates of music concerts that he has coming up. I imagine he wants some time off, too! But, look … what he did out there at WrestleMania opens the door anytime he wants to come back at WWE. Maybe I’ll get a round 2!”

Recently, it was reported that Bad Bunny reported to the WWE Performance Center months ago to prepare for the match. Damian Priest is also said to have wrestled the match with a bad back, possibly leading to Bad Bunny taking a larger role in it.

WWE 2K22 Potentially Not Coming To Next Generation Consoles

Chris Stephens
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Over WrestleMania 37 weekend, 2K announced that WWE 2K22 is “Coming Soon” although few other details were revealed. After WWE 2K20 was met with negative reviews, 2K Sports announced WWE 2K21 would not be released. Instead, the team would spend additional time developing WWE 2K22. A rumor that the upcoming game will not be available for next-generation consoles is currently gaining steam online, however.

After WWE 2K1 was canceled last year, a former writer for the game posted to his YouTube channel that WWE 2K22 would not make the jump to next-generation consoles. That belief has been bolstered recently by an online thread from Twitter users stating ads on Instagram stories for the game only mention PS4 and Xbox One.

“I got an ad (the ones you get when you go through IG stories) from 2K that advertised 2K22 and it only showed PS4/XBOX One. Also, Playstation released the trailer on their YT channel and at first it was titled as “WWE 2K22 Trailer | PS5” but changed to PS4 soon after,” the thread continued.

Developing Games For Different Consoles

As 2K Sports looks to re-build the franchise after a disastrous WWE 2K20 edition, it is being speculated that developing games for both current and next generation consoles would make this more difficult. Additionally, next generation consoles have been difficult for many people to obtain due to lack of availability.

“Do you think 2K had enough time to make a PS4 version with everything people wanted and ALSO a PS5 version with more features?” Another Tweet read.

Sports Gamers Online reached out to 2K regarding this rumor and received the following response:

“We have nothing to share at this time. We’ll share more information on WWE 2K22 soon.”

If 2K does not release a game for next generation consoles, that could make the pending AEW video game the first on the new devices. The AEW console game is rumoured for an early 2022 release.

Nita Strauss Reveals That She Wants To Wrestle For WWE

Jake Skudder
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Nita Strauss recently spoke to the UnSKripted podcast. The Guitarist discussed a number of topics on the show, including how she wants to wrestle for WWE.

Strauss has been on WWE programming a number of different times, including WrestleMania week’s NXT Stand & Deliver shows and playing Shinsuke Nakamura’s entrance theme at WrestleMania 34.

“I’m pretty athletic already, so I imagine being a pretty athletic wrestler,” Strauss began on the podcast. “If I was to ever get in the ring, hopefully someday and get to do a couple of spots, I’d like to have an interesting match.”

Nita Strauss on Wrestling in WWE

“I don’t know if I can ever be as accomplished as the real Lucha Libre guys, but [I’ll] get some high-flying spots in” Nita Strauss continued. “Get some interesting move sets in. That’s what I want to do.”

Strauss finished by saying that she would love to team with her ‘favorite’ performer in WWE, Becky Lynch. “Exactly, Becky. Come on. I’m ready. Let’s go” Strauss noted. “I just got done working out at the gym. Let’s do it. (Claps).”

Would you like to see Nita Strauss appear in a WWE ring? Let us know in the comments

Wade Barrett Teases Potential WWE In-Ring Return

Jake Skudder
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WWE NXT commentator and former Superstar Wade Barrett recently appeared on the WWE After the Bell podcast with fellow NXT Commentator Vic Joseph. Barrett discussed a number of topics during the interview, including teasing a potential return to in-ring action for the Brit.

After an impressive wrestling career, Barrett reveals he always had sights on being a broadcaster.

“It was always a career goal of mine from way back to be an announcer,” Barrett began on the podcast. “I always thought I’d do it one day after I retired. I was lucky enough in 2008 under the tutelage of Dusty Rhodes, who was one of my mentors for Florida Championship Wrestling.”

“I did the commentary for the FCW TV show, the developmental version of WWE back then” Wade Barrett continued. “I always knew I wanted to be an announcer one day, fortunately this opportunity came up for me at the right time, got a call from Michael Cole, invited me along and it’s been a lot of fun ever since.”

Wade Barrett’s In-Ring Future

Barrett finished by telling Vic Joseph that there’s a chance he may return to the ring for WWE. He’s enjoying his current role, but he believes he’s still got what it takes to compete with today’s top Superstars.

“Hey, I’m all about the big paydays Mr. Joseph,” Barrett said. “It will not take much to remove me from the seat next to you and get back in the ring. I will say, very much enjoying my job with NXT but I have always made sure there’s at least a little bit left in the tank.”

Rhea Ripley Talks Edge Being ‘In Tears’ at WrestleMania 37

Jake Skudder
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WWE Superstar Rhea Ripley recently spoke to TV Insider. The Australian Superstar discussed a number of topics during the interview, including what happened backstage at WrestleMania 37.

“It was crazy walking through the curtain and seeing the crowd and how excited they were,” Ripley began, discussing what it was like to walk out at the start of ‘Mania Night 1. “All my dreams were coming true. It was something I worked toward for a long time. I was trying to hold it all together, telling myself, ‘Don’t cry.’”

She continued, “Then I looked over to Edge near me, and he had tears in his eyes” Rhea Ripley continued. “He nodded at me and winked. I just lost it. I could not hold it together.”

Ripley was also one of the notable talents shown on-screen during the opening segment of the show. She was clearly emotional to be back in front of a live crowd in a stadium.

“Then I saw this fan in the front saying, ‘Hey Rhea! You got this. You’re going to kill it’ — giving me this pep talk. Next thing I know, I’m being shown on the big screen.”

Rhea Ripley went on to dethrone Asuka to win the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania. Head over to TV Insider to check out the complete interview.

Heath Slater Talks Being Offered Post-COVID Firing WWE Contract Worth Half The Value

Jake Skudder
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Former WWE Superstar and current IMPACT performer Heath/Heath Slater recently spoke to The Angle Podcast. The One Man Band discussed a number of topics during the interview, including how he was offered a new WWE contract following his firing in April 2020.

Heath was one of the talents released back in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic; that was at least the reasoning given publicly by talents who were let go, ‘desperately needed’ budget cuts.

Slater would however return for an episode of Monday Night RAW in July 2020 as part of the Drew McIntyre/Dolph Ziggler angle.

Heath Slater on WWE Return

The former Heath Slater noted how Drew McIntyre convinced him to return for the one-off angle in July 2020. “He’s (Drew McIntyre) like ‘man I need you there, I want you there, for me and my storyline and it will help you out too. Imagine if they offer you a contract. Imagine even if you leave after this you’ll be talked about. The eyes will be on you.”

“I talked to my wife about it and she said ‘what do you have to lose? You’re already fired’” Heath continued. “I went down there and they tried to give me a script and I gave it back to them and said I got what I want to say. They asked me to mention the last time I spoke to Drew was on The Bump.”

The former WWE Superstar revealed that following the July 2020 appearance he was in fact offered a deal to return to the company. “They offered me a contract back and it was like half of what I was making,” Heath noted. “I was like no; I need to go and find myself and do other things.”

“I never burned any bridges there, they all know me” Heath added. “I still talk to more than half of the people up there. There’s no hard feelings at all. I told them I said I just want to go and do my thing for a little bit and they didn’t blame me. They got it.”

credit to WrestlingINC for the transcription

WWE NXT Results (4/13): Franky Monet Debuts, Open Challenge, Karrion Kross Speaks

Andrew Ravens
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The April 13, 2021 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

The April 13, 2021 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

WWE NXT Results 

  • NXT Tag Team Champions MSK def. Killian Dain & Drake Maverick to retain.
  • Mercedes Martinez def. Jessi Kamea.
  • KUSHIDA def. Santos Escobar to become the new WWE NXT Cruiserweight Champion
  • Isaiah “Swerve” Scott def. Leon Ruff.
  • Bronson Reed, Dexter Lumis, and Shotzi Blackheart & Ember Moon def. The Way

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Karrion Kross Opens

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New NXT Champion Karrion Kross kicked off the show with an in-ring promo as he is fresh off beating Finn Balor for the NXT Title at last week’s TakeOver: Stand & Deliver. 

He put over Balor for being one of the greatest to ever do it but proved that Balor’s beliefs were wrong. He said that he controls everything and is in command of NXT until he says so. He said no one will outwork him and if anyone wants the title then step up because he’s ready to roll heads. 

He said he doesn’t care who it is or what they’ve done because he will fold everyone until no one is left. He said it doesn’t matter where the time is, everyone pays the toll. 

Raquel Gonzalez Speaks / Franky Monet Debuts

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Raquel Gonzalez made her first appearance on WWE television after winning the NXT Women’s Title from Io Shirai on the first night of NXT TakeOver: Stand and Deliver event last week. 

Gonzalez walked out to the ring for a promo about her road to being champion. She said that the one person to realize her dedication and that’s Dakota Kai. 

Franky Monet, formerly known as former Impact Wrestling star Taya Valkyrie, made her debut on this show by interrupting the champion. Monet congratulated her on the title and said that she is La Wera Loca and the best division on the planet is a whole lot better now that she’s here. 

Monet left and out walks Raw Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley then SmackDown Women’s Champion Bianca Belair.  They held up their titles in the ring and congratulated each other. That was it. 

WWE started airing videos a few weeks ago where a Pomeranian dog was shown entering the WWE Performance Center and running around the building. The latest video showed the dog coming up to a woman in high heels. 

The dog in the videos was Valkyrie and John Morrison’s Pomeranian Prince Presley. WWE also filed for the ring name in February. 

Roderick Strong Gone From NXT

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WWE did this interesting angle backstage where Roderick Strong was with his wife, Marina Shafair, and gave NXT General manager Wlliam Regal an envelope. 

Regal asked if he was sure about this decision and Strong said yes. So Strong is gone from NXT. It looks like he’s headed to the main roster whether that be on Raw or SmackDown. 

Open Challenge

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Undisputed NXT Cruiserweight Champion Santos Escobar issued an open challenge on this show after Escobar became the undisputed NXT Cruiserweight Champion by defeating Jordan Devlin in a ladder match at TakeOver: Stand & Deliver night two last Thursday.

When the COVID-19 pandemic last year, WWE announced a tournament to crown an interim champion, which was won by Escobar. So who answered the open challenge? 

Well, first, Santos cut a promo about being the undisputed champion and how his family is full of warriors as they always fight. Thus, that’s why he wanted this open challenge. KUSHIDA answered the call. 

It was a fun back and forth match that came down to KUSHIDA getting a quick roll-up win. After a quick commercial break, Jordan Devlin walked up and told KUSHIDA that after he goes home for a break, he’s coming for KUSHIDA and the title. 

Tag Team Title Match

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New NXT Tag Team Champions MSK defended against Drake Maverick & Killian Dain.

The champions went over with their finishers in a solid match. Post-match, Imperium laid out MSK. 

MSK became the NXT Tag Team Champions by defeating The Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson & James Drake) and Legado Del Fantasma (Raul Mendoza & Joaquin Wilde) in a triple threat match at last week’s NXT TakeOver special. Maverick & Dain became the number one contenders to MSK’s titles by defeating Breezango (Tyler Breeze & Fandango) on the pre-show.

Leon Ruff vs. Isaiah “Swerve” Scott

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Leon Ruff vs. Isaiah “Swerve” Scott in a singles match took place. 

The backstory behind this match is due to them being rivals as Ruff and Scott were participants in the Gauntlet Eliminator. Scott eliminated Ruff during the match, which was won by Bronson Reed to become the #1 contender to Johnny Gargano’s North American Title. 

Scott went over with his finisher in a solid match. 

Tag Bout

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The Way (NXT North American Champion Johnny Gargano, Austin Theory, Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell) vs. Bronson Reed, Dexter Lumis, and NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions Shotzi Blackheart & Ember Moon in an eight-person tag match took place. 

The reason this match was booked was due to Reed winning the Gauntlet Eliminator match at TakeOver: Stand & Deliver night one and advancing to challenge for Gargano’s North American Championship at night two, but fell short to retain his title. On the flip side, Blackheart & Moon retained their titles against LeRae & Hartwell at night two.

During the match, Heartwell had Lumis walk her backstage and she winked behind his back. The finish saw Reed hit a splash off the top rope to Theory. 

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