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WWE Raw Ratings Increase For Final SummerSlam Build (8/16)

Andrew Ravens
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Monday’s edition of WWE Raw averaged 1.857 million viewers with a 0.55 rating in the Adults 18-49 demographic. This is up from last week’s 1.790 million viewers and the 0.49 rating. 

Here’s the hourly viewership breakdown for Raw, courtesy of Showbuzzdaily.com:

  • Hour 1: 1.912 million, 0.55 in the 18-49 Demo
  • Hour 2: 1.864 million, 0.55 in the 18-49 Demo
  • Hour 3: 1.796 million, 0.55 in the 18-49 Demo

This was the go-home edition for SummerSlam for Raw, which historically increases ratings for the program.

Raw was the top cable program for the night as they beat Tucker Carlson Tonight with 0.55 to 0.41 in the 18-49 demo. This was the second-highest audience since May 3rd and second-best 18-49 number since April 19th.

Raw did an average of 0.40 in females 18-49 demo, 0.70 in males 18-49, 0.33 in adults 18-34, 0.22 in females 12-34, 0.38 in males 12-34, 0.70 in adults 25-54, and 0.90 in adults 50+.

This episode featured WWE Champion Bobby Lashley and Goldberg in a face-to-face segment, Drew McIntyre vs. Veer & Shanky in a handicap match, Randy Orton vs. Omos, AJ Styles vs. Riddle, Rhea Ripley vs. Nikki ASH, Damian Priest vs. The Miz, Charlotte Flair & Nia Jax vs. Nikki ASH & Rhea Ripley, Karrion Kross vs. Jeff Hardy, and more.

SmackDown Viewership

The episode drew an average of 2.499 million viewers in the overnight ratings, up from the previous week that did 2.047 million viewers, but that was due to an incorrect configuration. In the 18-49 demographic, it did a 0.58 rating, which was down from the 0.61 ratings the week before.  The final ratings were 2.084 million viewers, down from last week’s 2.169 million viewers.

Bobby Lashley On Gable Steveson Teasing WWE Run

Anutosh Bajpai
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Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson has been creating buzz by teasing a WWE run. However, the current WWE champion Bobby Lashley believes that Steveson should hold off on the idea until he has retired.

The All-Mighty was asked about Steveson during a recent interview with TVinsider. Replying to it, he said that the amateur wrestling star is doing the right thing by getting his name out there:

“When I met him, he seemed like a really humble kid. I wish I had his potential at such a young age. That kid is going to make so much money in his life because he has so many years ahead of him.

He is tagging Dana White on social media. He tagging Vince McMahon, Jon Jones. That is what he should be doing. He should be getting his name out there.”

Seth Rollins Offers to Train Gable Steveson For WWE Career

‘Wait Untill I Am Retired’

Bobby Lashley then discussed the prospect of Gable Steveson coming to WWE. He explained that while Gable will do very well in WWE, he should wait until Lashley has retired because that’s when he will have an opportunity:

“I think if he comes to WWE, he would do really well. He is a big kid and very athletic and charismatic. I think he should wait a little bit. He is 21. Wait until I retire at least. When I’m gone, he’ll have an opportunity to possibly win another world title.”

Gable Steveson has confirmed that he will be at the SummerSlam PPV where Bobby Lashley will be defending his WWE Championship against Goldberg.

https://twitter.com/GableSteveson/status/1427445292903829506

In light of Lashley’s comments about the young wrestling star, do you think we will see a confrontation between the two at the PPV this Saturday? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

Ruby Soho Posts New Video With Clues About Her Next Destination

Chris Stephens
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Ruby Soho, the former Ruby Riott, posted a video to social media recently. Unlike similar videos wrestling fans have seen lately, however, this one does not involve her breaking out of a prison.

The 1-minute video features Ruby with a train ticket from Orlando to New York’s Penn station. The video is titled “The Runaway” and ends with a “To Be Continued.”

https://twitter.com/realrubysoho/status/1427677496263204869

Ruby was released from her WWE contract on June 2nd, 2021. If she was under a 90-day no-compete clause, she would be free to sign with a new promotion at the beginning of September.

AEW has a big event in Queen’s, New York in September. “Grand Slam Dynamite” will take place in Arthur Ashes Stadium on September 22nd. Ruby missed the train in her video, but she’ll still have over a month to catch another one in time to get to the show.

Is Ruby Soho Headed To AEW?

According to a report from Fightful Select, Ruby Soho is expected to end up in AEW. Vickie Guerrero recently mentioned that she would love to have Ruby in an all-woman stable in the promotion.

“I think the one that comes to mind is Ruby. You know she was formerly with WWE; I would love to have Ruby on the roster for AEW,” said Guerrero on the Thoughts Count Anywhere podcast. 

“She was really underutilized, and I love her. She was on my podcast and just a great talent and a good wholesome human being.”

Reason Why Keith Lee Is Currently Working Dark Matches

Chris Stephens
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For the last two weeks, Keith Lee has been working dark matches before both RAW and Smackdown. Lee defeated Chico Adams before RAW last night, and Niles Plonk before RAW the week before. On Smackdown, Lee defeated Niles Plonk last Saturday in a dark match and Austin Theory the week before.

According to a report from PW Insider, the purpose of the dark matches is to help Lee refine his in-ring style and determine what works best for him.

“PWInsider.com is told that the recent darks, designed as being short squashes for Lee, have taken place as a way to refine Lee and decide what works best for him going forward,” wrote Mike Johnson.

Lee was out of action for 5 months from February to July. He returned on the July 19th episode of RAW and lost to Bobby Lashley. He was defeated by Karrion Kross the following week but then avenged that loss against Kross on August 2nd. Lee has been working dark matches ever since.

Lee opened up recently about dealing with inflammation of the heart following contracting COVID-19. This was the reason for his absence from February to July.

“Some people may have experienced this thing where there’s like an inflammation in the heart or lungs, for me it was the heart. That led to very scary times,” Lee says in the video.

“I was basically forbidden from training or any activity outside of a light walk. There was a fear that doing more than that—that there was a chance that I could just up and pass away.”

Update On USA Network’s Reaction To Taped NXT Shows

Chris Stephens
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Earlier this week, it was reported that NXT has been discussing the idea of returning to a taped format. This could possibly begin as soon as after this weekend’s TakeOver 36.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted that there has been “lots of talk about NXT no longer airing live and doing tapings ahead of time as a cost-cutting measure.”

“NXT taping schedule may be temporary, but for sure they’re taping several episodes after Takeover,” Tweeted Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live.

According to comments made by Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men podcast, however, the USA Network would not be on-board with such a decision. Zarian Tweeted out that when asked about NXT possibly being taped ahead of time, his source responded that “a taped show is not what we paid for”.

USA Network Concerned About Roster Cuts

Zarian also spoke with sources from the USA Network following the recent NXT roster cuts.

“Personally I’m disappointed with how this is going,” is what a source from the USA Network reportedly said to Zarian. 

The roster cuts and rumors of a cost-cutting switch to taped formats appears to be concerning to network executives. They are also a part of what appears to be an overhaul of NXT. According to Dave Meltzer, the directive from within WWE is to return NXT to a strictly developmental brand. The focus will reportedly return to creating stars for RAW and Smackdown. Losing the Wednesday night war to AEW is the likely catalyst for the change.

“This is the aftermath and this is the new direction. And the new direction is younger guys and bigger guys,” Meltzer said. 

“What happened happened and now they want to get it back to what it was.”

Update on Becky Lynch and her WWE Status

Jake Skudder
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WWE Superstar and former RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch has been out of action for over a year. The ‘Man’ revealed during the WWE Performance Center era that she was pregnant, and would be taking time off ahead of becoming a mother.

That was at the RAW following Money In The Bank 2020, and Lynch’s child Roux was born in December 2020.

Fans have been speculating as to when/if the former Champion would return, and Lynch herself has been trolling fans online by suggesting that she could appear at anytime, most recently at the WWE Money In The Bank 2021 PPV event, where she was actually in attendance and training.

Becky Lynch Status

During a recent press conference call for WWE SummerSlam 2021, Seth Rollins confirmed that Becky Lynch is preparing to get back into the ring, but they do not currently have a firm date set for her return.

https://twitter.com/TheLouisDangoor/status/1427647932225007622

There had been rumors of Becky Lynch making an appearance at WrestleMania 37 earlier this year as part of Bayley’s Ding Dong, Hello segment.

Those rumors are back, and with the Sasha Banks vs Bianca Belair match being in jeopardy having The Man return for a segment with Bayley might be the best alternative at this point.

Seth Rollins will be facing WWE Hall of Famer Edge at the event this Saturday on Peacock and WWE Network.

PROGRESS Announce Two Major Championship Matches for WWE SummerSlam Weekend

Jake Skudder
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PROGRESS has confirmed two major Championship matches for their upcoming Chapter show event on Peacock, WWE Network and demandPROGRESS.

The company’s World Champion Cara Noir will be defending against Danny Black; PROGRESS Women’s Champion Gisele Shaw will be defending against Laura Di Matteo.

This will be the return match for Cara Noir, who was last seen defending his title against Smokin’ Aces member Charlie Sterling.

Danny Black made the challenge to the champion during the last Chapter event. The Black Swan officially agreed to the bout earlier today.

https://twitter.com/ThisIs_Progress/status/1427640357454549001

PROGRESS Chapter 118

Gisele Shaw won the Women’s Championship at this past weekend’s event, after winning a triple threat match featuring Alexxis Falcon and Mercedez Blaze.

Former Champion Kanji had to relinquish the title due to injury, confirming that she had rebroken the arm that nearly caused her to end her career.

Here is the currently confirmed card for PROGRESS Chapter 118:

  • Smokin’ Aces (Charlie Sterling and Nick Riley) vs Greedy Souls (Danny Jones and Brendan White)
  • PROGRESS Women’s Championship Match – Gisele Shaw (c) vs Laura Di Matteo
  • PROGRESS World Championship Match – Cara Noir (c) vs Danny Black

Chapter 118 – Fake Tickets To a Hog Roast in Sumatra takes place on Saturday, August 21st.

The show is part of WWE SummerSlam 2021 weekend and will be available on Peacock, WWE Network and demandPROGRESS.

Batista Says CM Punk Will Be “Bigger In Films Than He Was In Wrestling”

Chris Stephens
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CM Punk has been doing the media rounds to promote his new television series, Heels. During multiple interviews, Punk has praised Batista transition from pro wrestling to acting.

He recently told Movie Trivia Schmoedown, “I just want to follow in his footsteps. I watch guys, friends of mine, Dave Bautista, do these huge blockbuster roles but also do roles that are challenging to him because he wants to grow and be a better actor.”

CM Punk told TV Insider that Batista is “truly inspirational” by selecting challenging roles for himself.

“I want to be somebody who takes even the smallest role and takes it very seriously and can learn from it,” said Punk. “I think pro wrestlers are always better than what people give them credit for because what is pro wrestling if not doing live theater.”

Batista Praises CM Punk

Batista recently responded to Punk’s comments in a Tweet.

“I already knew this. And the talent is obvious. He’s going to be bigger in films than he was in wrestling. Save this tweet,” Batista wrote in response to an article about Punk’s comments.

CM Punk in Heels

Heels has received strong critical reviews since the premiere premiere episode was released earlier this week.The show currently holds a 95% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. The show has a 96% approval rating amongst viewers on the same site.

The show follows the life of Jack Spade, owner of the fictional Duffy Wrestling League promotion. Punk plays the role of wrestler Ricky Rabies on the show.

Update On Kenny Omega, Ric Flair & Andrade At TripleMania

Chris Stephens
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At TripleMania over the weekend, Kenny Omega defeated Andrade to retain the AAA Mega Championship. Shortly after, it was reported that AEW had asked AAA to not have Omega lose the title on the show. In an update to this story, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer is reporting that AEW eventually did say Omega losing the title was fine but AAA decided to keep the title on him regardless.

“The original idea was that Andrade was going to win the championship. That was AAA’s idea and then AEW said originally that they would prefer that not to happen. It was not a contentious thing,” Meltzer said. The idea was that AEW didn’t want their champion losing in another promotion. AEW’s stance on this reportedly changed after the decision was made to have Christian Cage beat Omega for the Impact title on Rampage.

“Essentially what happened, there was plenty of talk and in the end, AAA did come to the decision to keep it on Omega.”

Omega was not aware that Ric Flair was going to be at the show. When he found out about Flair, Omega suggested that he lose to Andrade. Ultimately, Dorian Roldan decided to keep the title on Omega. Meltzer then speculated this was done because they have Omega’s next championship match planned.

“It may be Omega and Psycho Clown, but I’m not sure of that. There were things that hinted at that but they wanted to do that match. So, in the end it was AAA’s decision,” Meltzer concluded.

Bobby Lashley On If The Recent Releases Indicate The Downfall Of WWE

Anutosh Bajpai
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The recent string of WWE releases combined with the low TV ratings over the last few months have made many wonder if we are witnessing the downfall of the company but Bobby Lashley believes it’s not the case.

The WWE champion recently had an interview with TVinsider. He talked about things such as his feud with Kofi Kingston, his desire to face Brock Lesnar, and more.

Lashley was also asked about the backstage atmosphere in WWE in light of the recent releases. Replying to it, Bobby said that the feeling is good before claiming that they are never going to be beaten:

“I think the feeling is good. We get tested with so many things. Everyone will say, “This is it. This is the downfall of WWE.” It’s never going to be. We have so much talent in WWE.

WWE is never going to be beaten or contested. It’s always going to be the flagship of professional wrestling.That’s never going to change.”
– Bobby Lashley

The current champion went on to talk about his own release from the company in February 2008. He mentioned how he never burned any bridges and kept grinding.

Bobby Lashley will be defending his WWE championship against Goldberg at the SummerSlam PPV this Saturday. You can check out the updated card for the event at this link.

Bobby Lashley Gives Advice To Released WWE Superstars

Seth Rollins Offers to Train Gable Steveson For WWE Career

Alex Laybourne
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Seth Rollins is one of WWE’s biggest stars. He has already done it all and still has plenty of time left on the wrestling clock. Alongside his successful wrestling career, Rollins also has his own wrestling school back in his home state of Iowa. Talking recently to TMZ, Rollins said he would be happy to welcome US Gold medal-winning Olympian Gable Steveson to Iowa should he really sign with WWE.

Seth Rollins arrived at LAX yesterday where he spoke to TMZ sport as he made his way outside. Rollins admitted that Steveson had potential, pointing out that WWE had a history with Olympic champions.

“I mean, we’d love to have him. He seems like an incredible athlete and decent dude. And, you know, we’ve had some luck with Olympic gold medalists before, so why not?”

– Seth Rollins

Seth Rollins might be interested in helping a newcomer get into the WWE ladder, but his attention is currently held by a member of the WWE old guard. Rollins is facing off against Hall of Famer Edge.

Seth Rollins Willing to Help Get Gable Steveson Ready for the Ring

Gable Steveson’s gold medal success was a nail-biting affair. While it certainly had the entertainment side of wrestling covered, there is still a big difference between Olympic wrestling and sports entertainment wrestling. Seth Rollins is more than happy to help Steveson manage this adjustment should he elect to make WWE his new home.

“I do have a wrestling school, Black and Brave Wrestling Academy, so if he wants to move to Davenport, Iowa for three months, we’ll get him ready,” Rollins said with a slick promotion for his school.

There is no shortage of options for Steveson, including WWE, the NFL and UFC to name just three. Should he take Seth Rollins up on his offer, there could already be an interesting storyline for the youngster, acting as muscle, or possibly forming a stable together. It is certainly a tried and tested WWE technique.

https://www.mmanews.com/2021/08/daniel-cormier-gable-steveson-should-follow-brock-lesnar-approach/

Roman Reigns On Naomi Possibly Joining The Bloodline Story

Anutosh Bajpai
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While The Usos originally opposed the Universal champion Roman Reigns when he first turned heel, the duo has since joined the Tribal Chief in his quest to be acknowledged as the Head Of The Table.

Though there is one more member of their family on the WWE roster who hasn’t joined this bloodline story yet – the wife of Jimmy Uso,  Naomi.

When asked about the possibility of the former women’s champion joining their group during an interview with New York Post, Reigns claimed that it’s just not something that they have come up with:

“I do believe if she was put in that position, coupled with all of us surrounding her along with Paul Heyman and the rest of our creative brainstorming system that we have and how we craft our narratives, I think we could put her in a good position.

It’s just not something we’ve had time to come up with a thorough game plan. If we did, I think she’s definitely a superstar who could step up and take advantage of it.”

During the talk, the current champion was also asked about the recent DUI arrest of Jimmy Uso. Replying to it he said that he doesn’t condone that kind of behavior.

Though Roman Reigns later went on to claim that all humans make mistakes and explained how he likes to handle such situations. You can check out his detailed comments about the matter here.

Details On Who Is Producing John Cena & Roman Reigns’ Feud

New Day Wrestles Dark Match After Raw

Anutosh Bajpai
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New Day members Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston teamed up for a tag team match against The Miz and John Morrison for the dark main event after tonight’s episode of Raw from AT&T Center in San Antonio.

The original advertised main event for the show was The New Day going up against MVP and WWE Champion Bobby Lashley but the bout was changed.

Woods and Kingston received a big babyface reaction from the crowd. The duo also ended up winning the bout which was said to be filled with many comedy spots.

This was The Miz’s second match of the night. He made his in-ring return for the first time since WrestleMania 37 during the show and faced Damian Priest in a losing effort.

The New Day, on the other hand, did not wrestle on camera. They did stand behind the team of The Miz and Morrison for a backstage segment, where they advertised their new merchandise.

Woods and Kingston have not wrestled as a team on WWE TV since the July 5 episode of Raw last month. They defeated MVP and Bobby Lashley in that match.

This wasn’t the only dark match on the episode as Keith Lee once again worked a non televised match before the show. You can check out the news about Lee’s match here.

WWE RAW Results (8/16): Goldberg & Lashley, Title Match Set For SummerSlam, RK-Bro

Championship Match Added To SummerSlam, Updated Card

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE announced a couple of new matches for the upcoming SummerSlam PPV during tonight’s go home episode of Raw including a new championship match.

The first new match that was announced is between Alexa Bliss and Eva Marie. The two have been feuding in recent times. Tonight’s show featured a segment confirming their upcoming match.

The episode also saw the company announcing the Raw tag team championship match between Randy Orton & Riddle and the current champions AJ Styles & Omos for the SummerSlam PPV.

This week’s Raw saw Randy Orton declaring that R-K-Bro was back after Riddle saved him from a post match beatdown from Styles and his partner. WWE made the title match official after this.

Apart from this, a new stipulation for the match between Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal was announced. McIntyre defeated Veer and Shanky in a handicap match, resulting in the duo being banned from ringside at SummerSlam.

Updated SummerSlam Match Card

After the latest announcements, the card for the upcoming show looks to be almost complete. Here is the updated SummerSlam match card after tonight:

  • WWE Universal Championship Match: John Cena vs. Roman Reigns
  • WWE Championship Match: Bill Goldberg vs. Bobby Lashley
  • Triple Threat for the RAW Women’s Championship: Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Nikki A.S.H.
  • SmackDown Women’s Championship Match: Sasha Banks vs. Bianca Belair
  • SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match: Rey Mysterio & Dominik Mysterio vs. The Usos
  • WWE United States Championship Match: Damian Priest vs. Sheamus
  • RAW Tag Team Championship Match: Randy Orton and Riddle vs. AJ Styles and Omos
  • Singles Match: Edge vs. Seth Rollins
  • Singles Match: Drew McIntyre vs. Jinder Mahal, Veer and Shanky are banned from ringside.
  • Singles Match: Alexa Bliss vs. Eva Marie
WWE RAW Results (8/16): Goldberg & Lashley, Title Match Set For SummerSlam, RK-Bro

Reason Ember Moon Was Pulled From NXT Last Week

Anutosh Bajpai
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Ember Moon was originally announced for a match on last week’s episode of NXT. However, the female star was abruptly pulled from the show on the day of the event.

The sudden change made fans worried about her status and health especially after her tweet on the matter. Now Fightful select has provided some update on the situation.

According to the site, Moon has been recovering from a dental procedure. This procedure is the reason why she wasn’t cleared to compete and had to be pulled from NXT last week.

Despite not being cleared, the former NXT women’s champion was still backstage for last week’s show. She was willing to work the event regardless of her condition but the officials decided to keep her off TV.

Ember Moon was scheduled to face Sarray in a singles match on NXT. She was replaced by Dakota Kai in this bout and Kai ended up winning the one on one match.

The former Raw star has not competed inside a WWE ring since the July 13 episode of NXT. She had faced Dakota Kai in a match on the show which Ember lost.

There is no word yet on how long Ember Moon is expected to stay out of action. We will keep you posted about any further updates on her health.

Ember Moon On The Origin Of Her Finishing Menuever

Malakai Black On If He Sees Himself Going Back To WWE

Anutosh Bajpai
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Malakai Black had a bittersweet run in WWE. While he was able to impress everyone with his performance in NXT, his main roster run can only be described as lackluster.

The former NXT champion recently appeared on the Pro Wrestling 4 Life podcast. He talked about a number of things including the WWE release of Bray Wyatt and more.

Talking about his recent debut at AEW, Black said that it’s a great company to be a part of. He then claimed that he doesn’t see himself going back to WWE in future:

“I think AEW is making really cool waves. It’s a great company to be a part of, and I think I came in at the right time.

I don’t see myself going back to WWE, and it’s not out of spite. That’s just because I feel this is a right move for me. This is a better position for me.”

Apart from this Malakai Black also discussed the much-talked rumors about Daniel Bryan and CM Punk possibly joining the AEW roster very soon.

The former champion said that he would love to see Bryan make the transition while also claiming that he doesn’t know anything about Punk’s future. You can check out his comments at this link.

Date For Next WWE Saudi Arabia Event Revealed

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

The next WWE event in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia called Crown Jewel 2021 will be held on Thursday, October 21 from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

According to reports from PWinsider, the decision for the schedule was made last week. There was talk of the event being held in the first Thursday of November as well but the officials ultimately settled for October 21.

The last WWE event in Saudi Arabia was the Super ShowDown PPV in February 2020. It took place from the Mohammed Abdu Arena in Riyadh with the Fiend defending his Universal title against Goldberg in the main event.

The company and the Saudi General Sports Authority had announced a 10-year partnership in 2018. Though they had to halt the deal after the Super ShowDown last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The officials have already started planning the card for the event. Reports suggest that WWE is planning to hold the King Of The Ring and Queen Of The Ring tournaments later this year.

The tournaments are expected to begin on Raw and SmackDown in early October. The finals are being planned for the upcoming event in Saudi Arabia.

There is no word on what other matches are being discussed for the event but we will keep you posted on the plans as more details about the show come to light.

Vince McMahon, Triple H & Stephanie Named In Lawsuit Against WWE Over Saudi TV Deal

Keith Lee Works Another Dark Match Before Raw

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Keith Lee was seen working a dark match again just before the Aug. 16 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

Lee went one-on-one with an enhancement talent inside the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. As one would imagine, this was a squash match that saw Lee nab the pinfall easily. Lee has been competing in dark matches since getting his win back over Karrion Kross on the Aug. 2 edition of Raw.

Keith Lee’s Absence Explained

Lee had been out of action for five months. While Lee teased an explanation for a while, nothing had come to light for quite a while. In a YouTube video, Lee broke his silence and revealed that he suffered from inflammation of the heart following a COVID-19 diagnosis (h/t Comic Book).

“I got a call saying there was something off with my blood. Some people might have experienced this thing where there’s an inflammation in the heart or lungs, for me it was the heart. And that led to very scary times. I was basically forbidden or any training outside of a light walk. So there was a fear that doing more than that there was a chance that I could up and pass away. So, for three or four months this was kind of the case and I had several MRIs on my heart.”

“Very fortunately, even though it took a long time we waited that amount of time, that allowed for the inflammation in my heart to eventually go down to normal. Even though the first MRI was bad and the second MRI was worse, over time things got better here and there. Eventually, after that visit, I was cleared to try and get back into some sort of shape. That’s where the real struggle is. But it took some time, and to be honest it wasn’t even certain that I was going to show up in Dallas (where he returned and challenged Lashley to a non-title match) in terms of on TV.”

Some have speculated that WWE could be testing the waters with Keith Lee to see if he’s truly 100 percent. Others believe that since he isn’t factored into SummerSlam plans this year, he’ll just stay active through dark matches. In his video, Lee admitted that getting back in ring shape has been his toughest task.

WWE RAW Results (8/16): Goldberg & Lashley, Title Match Set For SummerSlam, RK-Bro

Robert Lentini
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0

WWE RAW aired live from the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. It was the final episode of RAW before WWE SummerSlam this Saturday night. WWE Champion Bobby Lashley came face-to-face with Goldberg one final time before the PPV. A couple of vignettes for Elias were shown during tonight’s show. Elias walked away from a gravestone that read “Elias 2017-2021”.

RAW Results

  1. AJ Styles def. Riddle
  2. Rhea Ripley def. Nikki A.S.H.
  3. Drew McIntyre def. Shanky & Veer in a Handicap match
  4. Damian Priest def. The Miz
  5. Mansoor def. Mace
  6. Randy Orton def. Omos via DQ
  7. Karrion Kross def. Jeff Hardy
  8. Charlotte Flair & Nia Jax def. Rhea Ripley & Nikki A.S.H.

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

AJ Styles def. Riddle

Randy Orton kicked off the show by saying that people have been asking him all week why he dropped Riddle with an RKO. He knows that Riddle just wants to be friends but he doesn’t need friends. Orton added that he would have defeated AJ Styles by himself last week and did not need Riddle’s help.

Orton said that he is facing Omos tonight and while he is a giant, he is also a bit of a jackass. Randy said he is going to hit Omos with the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment, R-K… Riddle interrupted and made his way to the ring. Riddle said that he knows Orton was just teaching him the proper way to hit an RKO last week and that Orton doesn’t have to explain himself.

Riddle said that Orton needs him in his corner for his match against Omos and suggested that they give RK-Bro another shot. RAW Tag Team Champions AJ Styles and Omos interrupted. Styles said that nobody cares why Orton hit Riddle with an RKO but he enjoyed it and wouldn’t mind seeing it again. Styles claimed that Omos was going to de-fang The Viper tonight.

AJ added that he doesn’t want Omos to have all the fun and challenged Riddle to a match. Riddle accepted and wanted Orton to say ringside. Orton stuck around for a bit before heading backstage. Styles and Riddle traded shots early with Riddle taking control with a Floating Bro outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Styles missed with a Splash and Riddle capitalized with a flying forearm to the face. Riddle connected with a German Suplex and bridged into a cover for a two count. Styles hit a series of kicks and connected with a Neckbreaker for a near fall. Riddle battled back and went for a Broton but Styles got his knees up. AJ locked in the Calf Crusher in the middle of the ring but Riddle was able to fight through the pain and reach the bottom rope to break the hold.

Riddle hit a knee to the face and then sent Styles into the turnbuckle with an Exploder Suplex. Riddle hobbled to the top rope but got distracted by Omos. AJ tripped Riddle up and planted him with the Styles Clash for the pinfall victory. Randy Orton will square off against Omos later tonight. Riddle was interviewed after the match and said he was just sad, man.

Rhea Ripley Pinned The Champ

RAW Women’s Champion Nikki ASH faced Rhea Ripley tonight with Charlotte Flair on commentary. Nikki will defend the RAW Women’s Championship against Charlotte and Rhea Ripley in a Triple Threat match this Saturday night at SummerSlam. Nikki connected with a Crossbody and fired up the crowd as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, ASH connected with a Tornado DDT and went for the cover but Ripley powered out at one. Nikki went for another Crossbody but Rhea caught her. Rhea hit a Northern Lights Suplex for a near fall and then followed it up with the Riptide for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Nikki attacked Charlotte at the announce table. Nikki rolled Charlotte into the ring and Rhea greeted her with a Clothesline. They then booted Charlotte around and out of the ring to end the segment. Later on RAW, Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce suggested that Charlotte Flair find a partner and they will sanction a tag match later tonight. Flair didn’t seem interested in that idea and angrily walked away.

McIntyre Warned Mahal Ahead Of SummerSlam

Drew McIntyre battled Shanky & Veer in a Handicap Match. McIntyre will face Jinder Mahal this Saturday at SummerSlam. McIntyre brought Angela (the sword) to the ring with him. Shanky and Veer controlled the action briefly but McIntyre soon took control. McIntyre hit Veer with a Neckbreaker and then delivered a Michinoku Driver to Shanky. Drew followed it up with the Claymore for the easy pinfall victory.

After the match, McIntyre vowed to embarrass Jinder Mahal at SummerSlam in a moment that will live forever. Drew asked the crowd if they think he will beat Mahal and they agreed with him. Shanky & Veer are banned ringside from the match at SummerSlam.

Damian Priest def. The Miz By Using The Brogue Kick, Morrison Left Miz Behind

John Morrison came to the ring for an episode of “Moist TV”. The Miz was his guest.

Morrison seemed to think that The Miz was faking his injury and Miz said he was not a liar. Damian Priest interrupted and said that before he beats Sheamus at SummerSlam he wants to know why Miz has had Morrison push him around in a wheel chair if he has been cleared for weeks.

Miz told Morrison that Priest was just trying to spin everything around and turn them against each other. John Morrison suggested that Damian Priest face Miz tonight. Miz complained that he wasn’t fully ready for this and Priest shoved him in a kiddie pool that was in the ring.

United States Champion Sheamus joined commentary for the match. The Miz tried to give Sheamus a high five but the Celtic Warrior declined. Damian brought Miz back into the ring and Miz immediately began faking another injury. Priest send Miz to the ropes but he collapsed to the apron. Miz tripped up Damian and hit a double axe handle off the top rope.

The Miz danced around the ring and hit a few It Kicks. Priest punched Miz in his injured leg and hit him with some kicks to the chest. Damien leveled Miz with a kick to the face but Miz responded with a boot of his own. Miz asked Morrison for the drip stick but Morrison pulled it away. Morrison then walked to the top of the ramp and watched as Priest mocked Sheamus by beating his chest. Damian leveled Miz with a Brogue Kick for the pinfall victory.

Sheamus flipped out and called Damian a disrespectful scumbag. Sheamus shouted that this is his gold around his waist and it will never touch Damian’s grubby little paws. Sheamus noted that he may have a broken face but vowed to kick Damian’s head off of his shoulders this Saturday at SummerSlam. Miz and Morrison had a conversation backstage. Morrison said he was hurt and wanted to show Miz what it is like when someone you are relying on turns on you. The Miz told John that he gets it and wants to move on. Morrison agreed and Miz wondered what they should do at SummerSlam. John said “the wetter the better”. New Day were dancing around in the background during the conversation.

Mansoor def. Mace

Mace squared off with Mansoor tonight on RAW. T-Bar and Mustafa Ali were ringside for the match. Mace dominated the action early and hit a Chokeslam. Mansoor battled back and connected with a flying forearm. Mustafa Ali hit Mace with a Dropkick and Mansoor capitalized with a cover for the victory.

Eva Marie Slapped Doudrop

Eva Marie was rude to Doudrop backstage before an Alexa’s Playground segment. Eva said that Doudrop blew it last week. She told Doudrop to go to Alexa’s Playground and take Lilly the doll. Bliss was with Lilly in the playground and said she was excited to put an end to the Eva-Lution this Saturday at SummerSlam. Doudrop showed up and grabbed Lilly despite Alexa warning her. Doudrop stared at the doll before handing it back to Alexa and walking away.

Later on the show, Eva Marie got pissed that Doudrop didn’t bring back the doll. Eva said that this was like Doudrop showing up and slapping her in the face. Eva slapped Doudrop in the face twice and walked away.

Riddle Saved Randy Orton, RK-Bro Will Challenge For The RAW Tag Titles

Randy Orton faced Omos to begin the third hour of RAW. AJ Styles was ringside for the match. Orton went for the RKO right away but Omos blocked it. Omos connected with a Body Slam and posed in the ring as Styles cheered him on. Omos beat Orton down for a couple minutes and then launched him to the corner.

Omos charged but Orton was ready and slammed him into the turnbuckle. Randy got in some shots but the big man knocked him back down with a punch. Omos threw Orton to the corner again and went for a Splash but once again Orton got out of the way.

Orton went for the RKO again but Omos blocked it and sent Orton out of the ring. Omos distracted the referee and AJ Styles got in a cheap shot. The referee caught it and the match ended in a DQ. After the match, Styles rolled Orton into the ring and instructed Omos to beat him down some more.

Omos threw Orton out of the ring and followed him out there. Omos hurled Orton over the barricade and onto the concrete floor. He lifted Orton back up and carried him back to the ring. Styles paced around the ring before setting up for the Phenomenal Forearm. Riddle’s music hit and he rushed the ring. Riddle hit Omos with a Dropkick and Clotheslined Styles out of the ring. Omos climbed back to the apron as Styles stumbled around. Omos opted to carry AJ Styles backstage instead of getting into the ring with Riddle.

Riddle offered to help Orton up and Randy took him up on it. Orton asked for a microphone and told Riddle that respect is something that is earned. Randy stated that Riddle has had his back after everything he has done to him and has earned his respect. Orton laughed and said RK-Bro is back and shook Riddle’s hand. Randy then gave Riddle a hug and Riddle took the microphone. Riddle told Randy that he made him so happy and announced that they will challenge Styles & Omos for the RAW Tag Team Championships at SummerSlam.

Karrion Kross def. Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy faced Karrion Kross again tonight. Before the match, Karrion Kross attacked Jeff Hardy during a backstage interview. Hardy still controlled the beginning of the match and connected with an inverted Atomic Drop. Jeff went for the Twist of Fate but Karrion countered into the Kross Jacket in the middle of the ring. Jeff tried to get out of it and reached for the ropes but ultimately tapped out. Karrion Kross will defend the NXT Championship against Samoa Joe this Sunday night at NXT TakeOver.

Charlotte & Nia Jax def. Rhea Ripley & Nikki A.S.H.

Rhea Ripley & RAW Women’s Champion Nikki A.S.H. teamed up to face Charlotte Flair & Nia Jax. Nia and Nikki started off the match in the ring. Jax shoved Nikki to the corner and trapped her there. Nikki escaped but Nia shoved her tot he canvas. Jax lifted Nikki up but she countered into a Sleeper Hold.

Jax broke free by bashing Nikki into the turnbuckle and then gave Nikki a stink face in the corner. Charlotte leveled Nikki with a boot to the face outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Nikki connected with a slam and tagged in Rhea Ripley.

Rhea hit Charlotte with a Clothesline and followed it up with a headbutt. Ripley knocked Jax off the apron and delivered a Dropkick to Charlotte’s face. Rhea followed it up with a Northern Lights Suplex for a two count. Ripley hopped to the top turnbuckle and went for a missile Dropkick but Flair jumped out of the way. Shayna Baszler was shown watching backstage shuffling a deck of cards as Nia pleaded for a tag. Nia got the tag and hit Ripley with a Samoan Drop. Flair tagged herself back in and hit Natural Selection on Rhea for the pinfall victory.

Goldberg Hit Lashley With The Spear

Goldberg made his way to the ring for a face-to-face with WWE Champion Bobby Lashley. Goldberg said that there was something important that he needs to address, and brought up Lashley & MVP talking all day about fatherhood last week during their promo. Goldberg’s son was shown in the crowd and he introduced him. The crowd gave a nice reaction to Gage. He claimed that his son was the reason he came out of retirement and that he wants him to see who Goldberg really is.

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley interrupted with MVP and walked to the entrance ramp. MVP stated that normally Goldberg lets his actions do the talking and wondered if Goldberg has realized he is outmatched. MVP added that Goldberg saw that it was going to be different this time when he locked eyes with Lashley. MVP claimed that Lashley was more dangerous, explosive, and dominant than Goldberg.

Lashley got into the ring with Goldberg as MVP stayed on the ring apron. Bobby stated that Goldberg is playing with house rules and the house always wins. Lashley told Goldberg that he will leave him with just enough so that he can tell his family and friends that he had the privilege of Lashley ending his career. The WWE Champion added that when you step into the ring, you step in “the house of the All Mighty”. Goldberg shouted that is “bullshit” and dropped the microphone. Lashley took a swing but Goldberg ducked and hit a Spear. Goldberg posed with his son on the ramp to close the show.

AEW Makes Good With Indie Promotion After Daniel Garcia Removal

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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AEW has received praise for reimbursing an independent promotion.

Daniel Garcia recently appeared on AEW Dynamite on Aug. 11. He went one-on-one with Darby Allin. Despite the loss to Darby, Garcia showcased his technical skill and showed AEW fans what he has to bring to the table.

Garcia had been scheduled to wrestle for St. Louis Anarchy on Aug. 20. He has been pulled from the event. While losing Garcia isn’t ideal for the promotion, St. Louis Anarchy expressed gratitude to AEW for reimbursing them for the travel money they spent.

“Shout out to AEW for reimbursing us on travel we had bought Garcia for Friday. Not a lot of bigger companies would of done that. The purpose of us is to get talent ready for them. We wish Garcia the best and hopefully we see him in Anarchy soon.”

Garcia apologized to St. Louis Anarchy and vowed to make it up to them by appearing at an event in the “near future.” It’s important to note that there wasn’t a reason given for Garcia’s absence from the card. This Friday night will be the second episode of Rampage, so time will tell if AEW needs Garcia for that show.

Garcia has been emerging as one of wrestling’s feel-good comeback stories despite playing a heel on television. Garcia’s life was nearly taken in a car accident back in January 2019. Garcia ended up walking out of the crash with a broken femur, fibula, and tibia.

Daniel Garcia made his first appearance for AEW earlier this month.

Royal Rumble Might Move To February, Possible Location

Andrew Ravens
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WWE recently announced over 30 new live events that included house shows, TV events, and pay-per-view shows for the rest of 2021. The company has even started early discussions about the early 2022 schedule of shows. 

WWE has already confirmed that they will hold a pay-per-view event on January 1, 2022. Fightful Select reported the front runner to host the Royal Rumble next year, which is St. Louis, Missouri. 

As of a month ago, those in WWE were under the impression that this city would be the end game, and until the venue and city are officially announced, it isn’t a guarantee.  Some in WWE have speculated that WWE could end up hosting this show in Seattle, which had been considered, but that’s not confirmed. 

WWE did confirm today that this year’s Survivor Series will take place in Brooklyn, NY this November then a soon-to-be-announced themed PPV, likely TLC, is set for December. 

Per the report, there has been significant internal discussion about next year’s Royal Rumble could actually happen in early February for the first time in history. WWE has always held the show in January with it kicking off the road to WrestleMania. 

WWE presents the SummerSlam pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 21 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada at Allegiant Stadium.

Sting Hypes His First Wrestling Match On TNT In 20 Years

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Wrestling legend Sting is set to compete on TNT for the first time in 20 years.

Sting will be teaming with Darby Allin to take on 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match on the Aug. 18 edition of AEW Dynamite. While Sting has been a regular character on AEW since his promotional debut back in Dec. 2020, this will be his first match on TNT since March 26, 2001.

In a press release, Sting discussed making his in-ring return to TNT.

“My relationship with TNT goes back more than 25 years, so having the opportunity to wrestle on the network that housed some of my most important moments is pretty surreal. The return of crowds has already been electric enough over the past month and a half, but there’s going to be an extra surge of adrenaline in Houston knowing that we’re live on TNT on Wednesday night.”

AEW head honcho, Tony Khan, also chimed in.

“When we first launched AEW, I was ecstatic to bring professional wrestling back to TNT after such a long absence. So many wrestling fans, myself included, watched Sting defeat the legendary Ric Flair 20 years ago in that last match on TNT, and now it’s such a thrill that Sting will finally return to the ring on Wednesday Night Dynamite to team with Darby Allin against 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match. This historic match on Wednesday in Houston is just another example of AEW’s commitment to bring wrestling fans the great moments that they deserve.”

Sting has played a vital role in AEW since debuting for the company. He has aligned himself with Darby Allin. Sting is often seen at ringside during Darby’s matches. Sting has only had two matches with AEW, both tag team matches that resulted in victory.

What are you expecting for Sting’s in-ring TNT return?

Fuego Del Sol On AEW Contract: ‘I Didn’t See It Coming’

Fernando Quiles Jr.
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Fuego Del Sol has revealed what he knew about his big AEW Rampage segment.

On the debut episode of Rampage. Del Sol battled AEW TNT Champion Miro. The stipulation was that if Del Sol won, then not only would he take the gold but he’d also be offered a contract with AEW.

Del Sol was unable to defeat Miro. After getting the early jump on the champion, Del Sol was stopped in his tracks after eating a Machka Kick. Miro then applied Game Over and Del Sol was forced to tap. Miro then ripped up Del Sol’s contract, or at least he thought he did.

Following a commercial break, Sammy Guevara, Del Sol’s close friend, walked out and AEW President Tony Khan handed him a contract. Guevara entered the ring and revealed that Del Sol is All Elite.

During a Twitch stream, Del Sol revealed that he was unaware that he’d be getting a contract on television.

“They told me to lay there and after commercial comes back, get your standing ovation. ‘Hey, these people love you,’ Bryce (Remsburg) was getting it in his ear, ‘Hey, lay here, after commercial break, stand up, get your standing ovation, these people love you. I stood up, I thought, ‘Hell of a match, fun night.’ Sammy Guevara’s music hit, my heart dropped into my stomach because I knew what was happening in that moment. I was overwhelmed with emotion.

“I get goosebumps. I enjoyed the match so much. I was so amped all day about the match. I had this vision in my mind. Three DDTs. I was on cloud nine all day. We filmed the package they aired before the match, the night before, and it felt big, but I had no idea that they were going to do that after the match. Sammy was dressed nice and I didn’t even think about it. I was so focused on the match that everything else was white noise. I was laser-focused on Miro. It was perfect because I didn’t see it coming.”

Del Sol’s comments confirm what Tony Khan told Sports Illustrated. The AEW boss said the moment that Del Sol received his AEW contract on television was a “complete shoot.”

Fuego Del Sol only has one win in AEW. That victory was a tag team match so he remains winless in singles competition. With a fresh contract in hand, however, that figures to change soon.

CM Punk Shares Cryptic Message Ahead Of AEW Rampage

Andrew Ravens
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After waiting a few weeks, fans are just days away from the heavily speculated AEW debut of CM Punk on Friday’s episode of Rampage. 

Punk seems to be having fun teasing the fans on social media as he dropped an “All Elite” reference during commentary at the CFFC fight over the weekend and then posted a cryptic message on his Instagram Stories. 

The post had the numbers: 05, 11, 21. Fans quickly picked up on how the first two numbers are from Punk’s hottest years in the wrestling business. It also references the three times he signed a full-time wrestling contract.

2005 would’ve marked Punk’s time in ROH while the second number was when he re-signed with WWE and had a huge run that summer that included his famous pipebomb promo. Obviously, 2021 would be the year when he signed with AEW.

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It was reported several weeks ago that Punk had been in talks about an in-ring return with AEW being the most likely landing spot. It was all but confirmed when they announced a special edition of Rampage on August 20th from Chicago, Illinois at the United Center, which sold out right away.

CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast

First Post-All Out Dynamite in Cincinnati ‘Closing In On Sellout’

BJ Bethel
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All-Elite Wrestling Dynamite at Fifth-Third Arena in Cincinnati has sold around 8,000 tickets three weeks prior to the Wednesday Sept. 8, 2021 event, according to a staff member at UC’s ticket office this morning. The arena’s capacity for the show will be near 10,000

It will be AEW’s first TV after the All Out PPV on Sept. 5 and its first show in Cincinnati. The show will be a homecoming for Jon Moxley and Karl “Machine Gun” Anderson. Moxley is from Cincinnati while Anderson grew up in Northern Kentucky.

AEW has 3,756 ticket for Dynamite in Houston on Wednesday, according to WrestleTix. Friday’s “The First Dance” Rampage show at the United Center in Chicago is sold out as is the Sept. 5 All Out PPV at NOW Arena. According to Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, 5,000 tickets (around 50 percent capacity) remain for both Rampage and Dynamite shows prior to the PPV at the same venue.

Moxley and Anderson grew up in the area and trained in Cincinnati. Moxley trained under Cody Hawk and Les Thatcher at former WCW and WWE developmental territory Heartland Wrestling Association in Cincinnati. Anderson trained with Thatcher at the HWA and later with Roger Ruffen at Cincinnati’s Northern Wrestling Federation’s BoneKrushers wrestling school before moving to the New Japan Pro Wrestling Dojo in Los Angeles in the mid-2000s.

AEW tried to book the Heritage Center (Cincinnati’s former US Bank Arena) early in its touring days, but the venue has an exclusivity agreement with World Wrestling Entertainment.

The arena, which is located on the UC campus, will have capacity of around 10,000 according to the university. The UC ticket office told SEScoops.com it expects the event to be sold out. This will be the first major wrestling show at the arena since it underwent renovations in 2018. AEW will tape the Friday, Sept. 10 episode of Rampage the same night.

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