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Spoilers: Impact On AXS TV Tapings Results Through Mid-August

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Impact Wrestling held another round of television tapings on Monday night from Nashville, TN. They now have four weeks of TV recorded, so we have a good look at how storylines will play out through mid-August.

You can find results from Sunday night’s Impact on AXS tapings here. Those shows will air this Thursday (7/22) and next Thursday (7/29).

Here are the results from Monday’s tapings, courtesy of Darryn Simmons and Impact Asylum:

Impact on AXS Tapings Results
Airing 8/5

  • Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo and Drama King defeated Chelsea Green and Matt Cardona in a Homecoming tournament match.
  • Decay defeated Rachel Ellering and Tommy Dreamer in a Homecoming tournament match.
  • Eddie Edwards defeated W. Morrissey in a Hardcore Match.
  • Sam Adonis defeated Joessa.
  • Jake Something defeated Daivari, Rohit Raju and Trey Miguel in a 4-Way Match.
  • Chris Bey w/Jay White defeated Juice Robinson w/David Finlay. Afterwards, Jay White presented Bey a Bullet Club shirt and gave him a “too sweet” salute.
  • Taylor Wilde defeated Kaleb.
  • Moose defeated Chris Sabin. There was a big brawl to end the show.

Impact on AXS Tapings Results
Airing 8/12

Chris Bey Bullet Club
Chris Bey joins Bullet Club
  • Deonna Purrazzo and Drama King defeated Decay in the Homecoming tournament finals to be crowned Homecoming King and Queen.
  • Tenille Dashwood defeated Taylor Wilde. Dashwood got help from the returning Madison Rayne.
  • Maclin destroys Jah-C.
  • Josh Alexander defeated Daivari.
  • FinJuice picked up a DQ win over Bullet Club’s Jay White and Chris Bey after White hit Robinson with a chair.
  • John Skyler defeated Matt Cardona after a distraction from Rohit Raju and Mahabali Shera.
  • Homecoming Queen and King Deonna Purrazzo and Drama King came out for a promote. They were interrupted by Mickie James, who has a contract for Deonna Purrazzo to work the upcoming NWA Empowerrr all-women’s PPV. Deonna refuses to sign it unless she knows her opponent. Mickie then introduces Melina. They signed the contract and the match is on.
  • Brian Myers won a battle royal to earn a World title shot at Kenny Omega at Emergence.

Scarlett Offers Cryptic Response to Shocking Karrion Kross Defeat

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There were several shock moments on RAW last night. With the return of live crowds, WWE went all out and gave it a RAW after Wrestlemania feel to it. Yet, on a night of surprises, there was one moment that stands prouder than the rest. The shock defeat of Karrion Kross at the hands of Jeff Hardy. After the match, Kross’s valet Scarlett took to social media to share her thoughts.

It was strange that Scarlett was not by Karron’s side for his main roster debut. Nor was she backstage for RAW. Regardless, that didn’t stop her from saying a few words.

“This is only the beginning,” she said in a short but direct tweet.

The loss certainly came as a surprise, and fans can only assume that this will be used to present an even angrier Karrrion Kross to the audience. However, it remains a baffling way to introduce the man to the RAW audience.

Scarlett on Damage Control After Quick Loss for Karrion Kross

The tweet from Scarlett could have been a form of damage control for her fighter. The loss to Jeff Hardy came barely two minutes into a match, from a powerbomb, a move that is nowadays as common as a headlock. Yes, Jeff Hardy had his feet on the ropes, but Karrion Kross was fresh. WWE spent the entire evening building up to his debut, and for it to end in such a quick and surprising fashion can only be regarded as an upset.

As of the time of writing, Kross and Scarlett are both firmly part of the NXT roster. His debut would seem to be a once-off affair, at least until the NXT title has been removed from his waist. However, it would seem from Scarlett’s words and Kross’s post-match statement, that the feud with Hardy is just beginning.

EC3 Explains Why He Destroyed His WWE Action Figures

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EC3 was a shadow of his former self during his time with WWE. He has spoken openly about how he has only just started to refind the passion WWE stripped away from him. Talking in more detail during an interview with Wrestling Epicenter, he went on to talk about how he went to great lengths to put his WWE run behind him.

EC3 spoke about the need to make sure the past was left in the past. In a speech that was heavily laced with frustration and an eagerness to not just move on but forget the experience entirely.

 “As long as you live in the past, you’ll forever remain in the past,” EC3 said. “So if you’re shopping at a Target and you see your likeness, your image captured in toxic chemicals made in China sold for commerce. When something destroyed a part of your soul and took your pride and tried to destroy your passion, you truly have to let everything go! Let that which does not matter slide. So I threw out my own action figure. Eventually, I burnt one too. If you’re going to destroy your past, you must commit. If you’re going to do something, go all in. Be bold! Be brave! Don’t stop! Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don’t. Everything happens for a reason.” EC3 said

EC3 is Focusing on Building a Future Not Looking to the Past

A man reborn, EC3 is very much focused on the future. His words scream of finality with WWE. He has since signed with Ring of Honor and is excited to get back to doing what he loves. A love that he openly admits was stripped away by WWE.

When the interview pressed on why he was released, or what reasons he was given, EC3 had no answer.

“That’s not a question for me,” EC3 said. “That is a question you would have to ask the powers that be there.”

He is simply a man happy to be looking forward. Moreover, he has no plans to look back or waste time ruminating on things that he has no interest in. EC3 is not alone in expressing his relief at finding his ‘freedom’. However, he is certainly dedicated to cleansing himself with all eyes on the horizon.

Jeff Hardy Writes a Poem to Welcome the WWE Universe Back to RAW

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WWE’s Jeff Hardy is the ‘Charismatic Enigma’ and this certainly extends beyond his in-ring antics. Known for his creative side in all avenues of life, he recently took to social media to debut a new poem he had written. The words were scribed ahead of his return to RAW this week, moreover, as an ode to the fans who returns alongside him.

In fact, Jeff Hardy returned to claim what can only be classed as a shock victory over the debuting Karrion Kross.

Universal Adrenaline: A Poem

2020 shortly evolved into the unknown,

A return to silence made me question everything.

Hearing your voices only in my head,

From past memories your chants are engraved in my brain.

It feels like a decade since you’ve been gone,

Virtual worlds have reset normality.

I imagine a world without the pandemic,

A world where sanity and insanity develop a perfect compromise.

In this world were close,

In this world we were free,

In this world we were fearless,

It’s been over a year since I’ve seen your smiles.

The empty arenas are about to fill,

Adrenaline again changing now from then.

Re-emerging to life,

Re-inventing the show,

Re-creating the auroa,

Re-assuring, I know.

It feels like a decade since I’ve felt it,

The virtual worlds have replaced live energy.

It’s time to get it back,welcome back,

It’s time to re-engage, turn the viral page of WWE’s infinitive chapter,

It’s Universal eternal, inspiring ever after

I see a world without the pandemic,

A world where you and I develop the perfect adrenaline.

In this world we are close and free,

In this world we are bold and fearless,

In this world we are not alone,

In this world we are home, again

  • Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy Lead a Night of Returns for Monday Night Raw

It was a big night for Jeff Hardy. Not only did he create his work of lyrical art, but he returned to action in stunning fashion. He also marked the return of live audiences with the return of his No More Words entrance theme.

It was certainly a big night for the multi-time champion as he became the first man to ever defeat Karrion Kross via pinfall. However, the manner of his victory is teasing a heel turn for Jeff Hardy. Hardy’s last heel run came in 2011, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out.

Mick Foley Critical of Drew McIntyre’s Chair Assault on RAW

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WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley has taken to social media to speak up about Drew McIntyre’s chair assault on Monday Night Raw.

If there was ever a wrestler who knew a thing or two about chairs and taking nasty bumps it is Mick Foley. A hardcore legend if ever there was one. While taking the time to voice his discontent, it wasn’t because of the violence of the attack. Rather, it was because he felt such a violent attack needed to serve a grander purpose.

“Big fan of Drew’s…but 20 chair shots should either be done to build a feud of epic proportions…or they shouldn’t be done at all #RAW,” Mick Foley wrote.

The assault, delivered to Jinder Mahal’s lackey Shankey, is the latest in a series of attacks between the pair in a feud that started after Mahal stole McIntyre’s sword. There is a history between both men stretching back to their days in 3MB. How destinies have changed for both since those goofy days. Mick Foley’s comments about the ferocity of the attack and its lack of meaning might be slightly misplaced.

Mick Foley Knows a Thing or Two About Chairs

The feud is running, and it is running deep. It is nothing new for a heel to use his lackeys as a human shield. Subjecting them to the assault while they skip out of town. Shankey was one of the men who carried McIntyre away from the Money in the Bank ladder match. While Mick Foley is correct, chair shots should be used sparingly in the days of concussions and dementia. However, the feud between Mahal and McIntyre is building, and could certainly be something epic.

 Both men are former champions, both men want to have the gold again, and with the return of the WWE Universe to events, it’s only natural to ramp things up a little bit in the process. Mick Foley is a legend and there is no question, but on this occasion, his comments might not be completely valid. He has been there for some of the most violent matches wrestling have seen. While things have toned down in the interceding years, there is no denying that the current feud between Mahal and McIntyre is going to be hard-hitting.

WWE RAW Results (7/19): Goldberg Returns, Karrion Kross Debut, Nikki A.S.H. Cashes In

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WWE RAW aired live from the American Airlines Arena in Dallas. It was the first RAW following WWE Money in the Bank. NXT Champion Karrion Kross made his debut and John Cena kicked off the show. WWE Champion Bobby Lashley also held an Open Challenge for his title tonight.

RAW Results (7/19)

  1. Riddle & Viking Raiders def. AJ Styles, Omos, John Morrison
  2. Jaxson Ryker def. Elias in a Symphony of Destruction match
  3. Tamina & Natalya def. Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax
  4. Reginald def. Akira Tozawa to become the new 24/7 Champion
  5. Sheamus def. Humberto Carrillo
  6. Jeff Hardy def. Karrion Kross
  7. Rhea Ripley def. Charlotte Flair via DQ
  8. Nikki A.S.H. def. Charlotte Flair to become the new RAW Women’s Champion

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Cena Wants Reigns At SummerSlam

John Cena kicked off this week’s show after returning last week to interrupt Universal Champion Roman Reigns following his victory over Edge at Money in the Bank. Cena said he missed the WWE Universe and he missed this as the crowd chanted “welcome back!”.

Cena said the biggest superstar in WWE is the WWE Universe and that tonight is electric & Monday Night RAW from Dallas, Texas. John noted that he ruined the championship celebration last night of Roman Reigns and wanted to explain his actions.

He stated that he came back for the crowd and because of Roman Reigns. Cena said he was here for the Universal Championship at SummerSlam and that Roman Reigns is an a**hole. Cena added that Reigns needs to be knocked a peg and the pathetic Reigns experience has gone on long enough.

Cena said that Reigns is an over exposed gimmick that is not as over as he says he is. John said he is going to be on SmackDown and can’t wait to see Reigns there. Riddle came to the ring and exchanged some “bros” with Cena. They fist bumped and Cena exited.

Viking Raiders & Riddle Picked Up A Win

Riddle & Viking Raiders faced John Morrison & RAW Tag Champs AJ Styles & Omos in the first match of the night. RAW went to a break after Omos launched Styles onto Viking Raiders and Riddle outside the ring.

When RAW returned, Styles had Riddle in a Headlock. Riddle escaped but AJ hit a Neckbreaker for a near fall. Morrison tagged in as Viking Raiders tried to fire up the crowd. Morrison got Riddle in another submission hold but he finally escaped to tag in Ivar.

Ivar leveled Morrison with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Bronco Buster. Ivar climbed to the top rope and went for a Moonsault but Morrison got out of the way. Morrison went for Starship Pain but Ivar dodged it. Riddle sprayed Omos with the drip stick but the big man thought it was The Miz.Omos started walking towards Miz and Morrison got in his way. Omos launched Morrison into the ring and Viking Raiders hit Viking Experience for the pinfall victory.

Jaxson Ryker def. Elias

Elias performed a song before another match against Jaxson Ryker. Jaxson quickly interrupted and said people are tired of hearing Elias introduce himself. Ryker said tonight will be the last time we hear “hello, I am Elias”. Ryker and Elias then battled in a Symphony of Destruction match.

Ryker dominated early and beat Elias down with a keyboard. Jaxson bashed Elias’ face off a drum kit a few times and leaped off the apron but Elias caught him with a knee to the face for a two count. Elias charged but Ryker sent him into a gong and the barricade. Jaxson broke a guitar over Elias’ back as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Elias and Ryker were battling on the apron. They returned to the ring and Elias unloaded some chops before shoving Ryker out of the ring. Ryker sent Elias into the ring post and hit him with another guitar. Elias threw the drums but Ryker swatted them away.

Elias bounced Ryker’s face off of a piano but Ryker battled back. Ryker slammed Elias on the piano for a two count. Elias launched Ryker over the steel steps and grabbed the cello. He bashed it over Ryker’s back a couple times for a two count. Elias punched Ryker to the canvas and climbed to the top rope.Ryker met him up there and looked at the table set up below. Jaxson planted Elias with a Superplex through the tables for the pinfall victory.

Charlotte Will Defend The Title Against Rhea Ripley Tonight

Charlotte Flair came down to the ring to celebrate her win over Rhea Ripley at Money in the Bank and capturing the RAW Women’s Championship. Flair boasted about winning last night and all the congratulatory texts she got. Charlotte ran down her accomplishments and how she is the only 11 time women’s champ.

Flair claimed she could beat Ripley any night of the week and Rhea interrupted. A “Rhea!” chant broke out and Ripley suggested a rematch for tonight. Flair declined and claimed it was because of Rhea’s knee injury. Adam Pearce & Sonya Deville interrupted and Sonya congratulated Charlotte.

Deville and Pearce noted that Flair did say any night of the week and announced a rematch for the RAW Women’s Championship later tonight. Charlotte got in a cheap shot on Rhea’s knee to end after distracting her with a flying heel to end the segment.

Reginald Won The 24/7 Title

Women’s Tag Champs Natalya & Tamina faced Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler in a non-title match. Tamina & Natalya took control and Reginald tried to help but it backfired. Tamina hit a Superkick on Shayna for the pinfall victory. After the match, Nia Jax headbutted Reginald and left with Baszler. 24/7 Champion Akira Tozawa was then chased to the ring and Reginald pinned him.

Sheamus def. Humberto Carrillo

US Champion Sheamus faced Humberto Carrillo tonight on RAW. If Humberto won tonight’s match, he would earn a US Title shot. Humberto was fired up after Sheamus attacked him last week and dominated early. Sheamus rolled out of the ring but Carrillo caught him with a Crossbody.

Back in the ring, Sheamus booted Humberto in the face and clubbed him across the chest. Humberto hit another Crossbody for a near fall and stomped Sheamus down in the corner as Damian Priest was shown watching backstage. Carrillo went for a Suicide Dive but Sheamus blocked it. Sheamus Powerbombed Humberto on the ring apron as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Sheamus was in control and beat down Carrillo on the apron. Sheamus posed and it allowed Humberto to get back into it. Carrillo hit a Hurricanrana and sent Sheamus out of the ring. Humberto hit a Suicide Dive and rolled the champ back into the ring.

Humberto climbed to the top rope and connected with a Dropkick for a near fall. Humberto hurt his hand of Sheamus’ protective mask and Sheamus capitalized with a Brogue Kick for the pinfall victory.

Goldberg Confronted Lashley

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley came to the ring for an Open Challenge following his dominant victory over Kofi Kingston at Money in the Bank. Lashley said he did all the talking he needed to do last night when he destroyed Kofi Kingston. MVP told the crowd that they were lucky to be in attendance tonight to witness WWE Champion Bobby Lashley.

MVP joked that he understands why Dallas is booing Lashley because it has been decades since they have seen a winner. MVP admitted that Kofi Kingston was right that the champion was distracted and MVP took responsibility for that. MVP said he feels sorry for the WWE roster because the window of opportunity is closed forever because nobody is taking the title away. He added that there is no more bullshit and they are back to business. Keith Lee made his return and accepted the Open Challenge.

Lee controlled the match early and hit Lashley with a Crossbody. Lashley escaped a Spirit Bomb and slammed Keith to the mat. Lashley then completely dominated for the next few minutes and connected with the Spear for the pinfall victory.After the match, Goldberg made his way to the ring and got in Lashley’s face. Goldberg laughed and shouted “I’m next!”.

Opinion: Everyone has their opinion of Goldberg getting another title shot. I have zero interest in it but congrats if you are excited. The bigger story to me is what just happened to Keith Lee. He got demolished and immediately brushed aside and overshadowed by Goldberg in his return.

McIntyre Ruined Jinder Mahal’s Birthday

Jinder Mahal came to the ring with Veer & Shanky. Mahal said it was his birthday and it gets better because Drew McIntyre is not Mr. Money in the Bank. Jinder rolled footage of their storyline revolving around McIntyre’s family sword. Mahal said Shanky was going to sing him Happy Birthday. Shanky sang until McIntyre interrupted. Drew hit Mahal with a chair and then bashed Shanky with the chair several times. The crowd wanted more and McIntyre hit Shanky about twenty more times with the chair.

Karrion Kross Lost In His Debut

Karrion Kross came to the ring without Scarlett for his RAW debut against Jeff Hardy (using his “no more words” theme).

https://twitter.com/2Sweet4Lyfe/status/1417310328782794764?s=20

Kross and Jeff locked up to start off the action. Karrion beat Jeff down and hit him with a Suplex. Hardy sent Kross into the ring post and him with a Twist of Fate. Jeff went for the Swanton Bomb but Kross got out of the way. Hardy rolled up Kross and used the ropes but the referee didn’t catch it. After the match, Kross said Jeff made the biggest mistake of his life and that everyone will fall and pray.

Opinion: I don’t understand why you would diminish the current undefeated NXT Champion in his RAW debut with a stripped down entrance and a loss. I was stunned at this result.

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1417310598757552130?s=20

Lilly Returned

Alexa Bliss welcomed Lilly back to Alexa’s Playground. Eva Marie and Doudrop interrupted but Alexa ignored them. Bliss said she wanted to put Doudrop in timeout so we can see what Eva Marie can do without anyone’s help. Eva declined but tripped due to Alexa’s magical powers and Bliss laughed to end the segment.

Nikki A.S.H. Is The New RAW Women’s Champion

Charlotte Flair defended the RAW Women’s Championship against Rhea Ripley in the main event. Rhea slammed Charlotte into the turnbuckle a few times but Flair escaped and connected with an Arm Drag. Ripley and Flair traded punches in the middle of the ring. Rhea connected with a Dropkick for a two count before applying a Headlock.

Flair escaped and bounced Ripley’s face off the turnbuckle. Ripley shrugged it off and planted The Queen with a German Suplex. Rhea followed it up with a Dropkick for a near fall. Charlotte Clotheslined Rhea out of the ring and then booted her off the apron. Ripley fell to the floor and grabbed her knee in pain. Charlotte capitalized with a chop block and rolled Ripley back in the ring.The referee got in the way and checked on Ripley as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Charlotte was working on Ripley’s knee and stomping on it against the ropes. Ripley battled back with a Clothesline and a Northern Lights Suplex for a near fall. Flair connected with a big boot and climbed to the top rope. Flair went for a Moonsault but Ripley got her knees up. Ripley then locked in a Figure Four but Flair reversed it. Ripley reached the ropes to break the hold and Flair sent her to the corner.

Charlotte hit some chops but Ripley connected with a boot to the ribs. Ripley hit Riptide and went for the cover but Flair got her foot on the ropes. Charlotte rolled out of the ring and started walking up the entrance ramp. Rhea chased her and Charlotte hit her with the belt to end the match in a DQ.

After the match, Flair posed with the title with a smile on her face. Rhea hit Flair with the Riptide and Nikki A.S.H. rushed the ring. Nikki cashed in and climbed to the top rope. Nikki hit a Crossbody for the pinfall victory. Nikki A.S.H. is the new RAW Women’s Champion.

https://twitter.com/NXTCiampa/status/1417320268213760006?s=20

Nikki A.S.H Wins WWE Raw Women’s Title

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In the span of 24 hours, the WWE Raw Women’s Title has changed hands twice. 

In the main event of Monday’s episode of Raw, Charlotte Flair retained the title over Ripley via DQ in Dallas, TX at the American Airlines Center on the USA Network. 

After the match, Ripley laid out Flair by tossing her into the ring post. This led to Nikki A.S.H aka Nikki Cross coming out and cash in the Money in the Bank briefcase. She hit a splash off the top rope and pinned Flair to become the new champion. 

Flair had just beaten Ripley on Sunday night at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view event in Fort Worth, Texas at Dickies Arena. 

At this same show, Nikki won this year’s Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match as she beat Asuka, Naomi, Alexa Bliss, Liv Morgan, Zelina Vega, Natalya, and Tamina. 

With a DQ finish between Flair and Ripley then a new champion being crowned, it will be interesting to see where WWE goes from here heading into the SummerSlam pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 21 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada at Allegiant Stadium.

Goldberg Confronts Bobby Lashley On WWE Monday Night Raw

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Goldberg was back on WWE television. The WWE Hall of Famer did so on Monday’s episode of Raw from Dallas, TX at the American Airlines Center when he confronted WWE Bobby Lashley. 

It happened right after Lashley beat the returning Keith Lee. Goldberg came out to a mixed reaction and told Lashley that he was next. Lashley wanted to fight right then, but MVP held him back. 

MVP later stated that the disrespect from Goldberg wouldn’t dignify a response from them. Either way, it’s reportedly leading to a showdown at SummerSlam. 

This was expected as the news was reported last week. This was the first WWE Raw “on the road” with fans since March 2020, which has led to various stars making their returns. 

There had been speculation that Lashley could ended up defending the WWE Title against Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam, but Lesnar has yet to come to terms with WWE regarding a return. 

Lashley had been feuding with Drew McIntyre from WrestleMania 37 through June’s Hell in a Cell pay-per-view event with Lashley going over all three times. 

WWE holds the SummerSlam pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 21 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada at Allegiant Stadium which will air on Peacock.

Keith Lee Returns To Answer Bobby Lashley’s Open Challenge

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Keith Lee is finally back on WWE television. 

Near the end of the second hour of Monday’s episode of Raw, WWE Champion Bobby Lashley issued an open challenge to anyone who would answer it from Dallas, TX at the American Airlines Center and Lee was the one to step up.

Lee had been out of action since February as it was reported that he was not medically cleared to compete. WWE had advertised Lashley defending the United States Title against Matt Riddle and Lee in a Triple Threat Match at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view event. This was after Lee had disappeared from television.

Lee had been cryptic in the past via messages on Twitter about his status. At one point he told one fan that only time will tell what’s next for him and then noted that he will find another way to explain his WWE hiatus.

The last that fans had heard from Lee was on the one-year anniversary of his WWE NXT Title victory at last year’s Great American Bash where he beat Adam Cole to win the title while he was the North American Champion.

NXT Champion Karrion Kross Gets Pinned His WWE Raw Debut

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WWE NXT Champion Karrion Kross made a good impression on Vince McMahon and other high-ranking WWE officials after working dark matches as he was called up to the main roster. 

Pwinsider reported earlier today that there has been a lot of talk over the last several days that Kross will be joining the Monday Night Raw roster. A source stated Kross is already listed internally on the Raw roster as a heel.

It happened on Monday’s episode of Raw when he wrestled Jeff Hardy. Scarlett wasn’t with him. Hardy actually beat Kross with a roll up in the same night that Hardy got his No More Words song back. Post-match, Kross said that Hardy just made the biggest mistake of his life because in the end, everyone will fall and pray. 

Kross made his pro wrestling debut in 2010 and later made a name for himself while working for Global Force Wrestling, Lucha Underground and Impact Wrestling. He departed from Impact in late 2019 after back and forth legal maneuverings between the two sides. 

He ended up in WWE in early 2020 where he has held the WWE NXT Championship twice, working on screen with Scarlett.

Scarlett, Blackheart, and former NXT North American Champion Bronson Reed have been brought to recent TV events for WWE officials to check out.  Kross and Reed worked a WWE Main Event TV episode several weeks ago as Kross defeated Shelton Benjamin and Reed defeated Drew Gulak.

John Cena To Appear On Friday’s WWE SmackDown

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WWE confirmed today that John Cena is headed to SmackDown this Friday night.

This comes after his surprise return at Money in the Bank. He’s also slated to appear on Monday’s episode of Raw. He’ll be explaining his motivation for returning. All of these appearances will be three times within a week that he’s appeared on WWE programming. 

Cena made his return to confront Universal Champion Roman Reigns after “The Big Dog” successfully defended his Universal Championship against Edge in the main event of the latest pay-per-view event presented by WWE. 

It’s been reported that Reigns vs. Cena is expected to take place at SummerSlam next month but hasn’t been officially announced.

Friday’s episode of SmackDown is taking place at two different locations – the show being held at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio and matches airing from the Rolling Loud music festival in Miami, Florida.

Already announced for SmackDown is Bianca Belair’s SmackDown Women’s Title defense against Carmella, a match between men’s Money in the Bank winner Big E and Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews (airing from Rolling Loud) as well as Toni Storm’s debut. 

Spoilers: Impact Wrestling TV Tapings Results (7/18/21)

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The spoilers from the Impact Wrestling TV tapings that took place on Sunday, July 18 in Nashville, Tennessee’s Skyline Studios are out. 

These matches and segments will air over the coming weeks on AXS TV. You can read the results here, courtesy of Impact Asylum:  

Impact Wrestling TV Tapings Results

Taping 1

Chris Bey defeated Rohit Raju.

Knockouts Tag Team Champions Decay (Havok and Rosemary) defeated Fire N’ Flava in a title rematch.

FinJuice (David Finlay and Juice Robinson) defeated Ace Austin and Madman Fulton. Post-match, Raju and Shera laid out FinJuice.

Jay White cut a promo about how he came to Impact for Finlay and said the Good Brothers’ attempt to rejoin the Bullet Club is denied. Don Callis came out to do an exchange until the Good Brothers came out to attack. Bey made the save. 

Matt Cardona, Jake Something and Chelsea Green defeated Brian Myers, Sam Beale and Tenille Dashwood. Also, Taylor Wilde returned to attack Dashwood and Kaleb.

Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo, Mickie James and Gail Kim did an in-ring promo. Purrazzo accepted James’ invitation to compete at the all-women’s NWA Empowerrr PPV.

Trey Miguel vs. Maclin for BTI went to a double countout as Petey Williams came out to save Miguel from an attack and all three men had to be pulled apart.

Willie Mack and Rich Swann defeated Violent by Design (Rhino and Deaner).

Jordynne Grace and Rachael Ellering defeated Fire N’ Flava. Post-match, Savannah Evans made her debut by laying out Kiera Hogan. Tasha Steelz then stood over her partner.

Good Brothers beat Jay White and Chris Bey in a non-title match.

Taping 2

FinJuice, Fallah Bahh and No Way (the former No Way Jose) defeated Ace Austin, Madman Fulton, Rohit Raju and Shera.

Don Callis and The Elite did an in-ring promo. They announced a no. 1 contender’s battle royal to determine World Champion Kenny Omega at the newly-announced Emergence. Sami Callihan said he’ll be in it, but challenged Omega and the Good Brothers to a six-man tag team match. AEW’s Frankie Kazarian got in the ring to attack The Elite. 

X-Division Champion Josh Alexander defeated Black Taurus to retain the title in a match taped for Homecoming.

Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo and Drama King defeated Alisha Edwards and Hernandez to advance in a mixed tag team tournament match at Homecoming.

Matt Cardona and Chelsea Green defeated The Pump Family (Petey Williams and Jordynne Grace) in a mixed tag team tournament match at Homecoming. Post-match, Maclin came out and attacked Williams.

Tommy Dreamer and Rachael Ellering (dressed as the Road Warriors) defeated Brian Myers and Missy Hyatt in a mixed tag team tournament match at Homecoming. Hyatt was picked by Sam Beale to be Myers’ partner.

Crazzy Steve and Rosemary defeated Fallah Flava (Fallah Bahh and Tasha Steelz) in a mixed tag team tournament match at Homecoming.

Kiera Hogan did an in-ring promo calling out Steelz and Evans. Su Yung and a zombie version of Kimber Lee came out instead to drag Hogan away. 

Sami Callihan, Eddie Edwards and Kazarian defeated World Champion Kenny Omega and Tag Team Champions The Good Brothers. Post-match, W. Morrissey came out to lay out Edwards and then had a staredown with Callihan.

Edwards challenged Morrissey to fight him out in the parking lot. It ended when Edwards ran him off Eddie eventually ran him off with kendo sticks.

Myron Reed On Lio Rush’s Retirement, Growing with MLW & More

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Major League Wrestling returned to live wrestling last Saturday night for their Battle Riot III from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

I was on-hand at the Battle Riot as a correspondent for SEScoops where I spoke with a few MLW wrestlers and one being Myron Reed.

When I asked how he felt when Lio Rush posted about his retirement, Reed answered how Rush was one of the guys he and others looked up to start wrestling at a young age.

“Lio was one of the guys when I was coming up that we looked up to because when I was younger, he’s a little bit older than me, so like he was making ways when he was really young. So, it made all of the younger guys that was like me, Jordan, like it made us like believe like okay he’s doing it, we can do it too. Like we don’t have to sit here and wait until we’re 30 or however old to start chasing goals and knocking down opportunities,” Reed said.

The discussion then moved onto me asking Reed what it was like being a part of MLW’s growth since he’s been with the company.

“It’s cool because not only is the company growing, but like you’re like growing with the company. Like you’re growing as an individual, so like I’m taking this as a learning experience and I’m just trying to become the best wrestler I can possibly become,” Reed said.

Other topics discussed include his strategies for the Battle Riot, who he hopes to wrestle in MLW by the end of 2021 and more.

Watch my full interview with Myron Reed here:

You can watch MLW’s Battle III for free on July 24th with beIN SPORTS or on MLW’s YouTube channel at 10 p.m. EST.

Jim Ross Proud to Help Young Star Like Darby Allin Grow Creatively

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Out of the entire AEW roster, few stars have caught fire as quickly or as heavily as Darby Allin. The relentless one has won the hearts of the audience with his death-defying antics. His coffin drop through the lid of the coffin on night one of Fyter Fest will be one every highlight reel for a long time to come. Darby also caught the attention of Jim Ross, who spoke highly of the young man during a recent episode of his Grillin’ JR podcast.

Talking about Darby, Jim Ross said how he had been able to sit down and have a great number of conversations with him already.

“Darby Allin has a great mind. I’m very privileged to have the opportunity to have private conversations with Darby. We have a very good relationship, and he runs ideas by me all the time. Some of them I agree with, and some of them I don’t. The good thing he knows is he’s going to get an honest opinion from me. He’s a good kid and he’s learning early. The more input you can have in your creativity, you increase your odds for success.”

Jim Ross is a Valuable Source of Knowledge for All AEW Stars

Aside from Chris Jericho, very few of the AEW locker room have anywhere near as much experience as Jim Ross. He is a valuable asset to the promotion that reaches far beyond his skills on the microphone.

Not only is AEW a young company, but it is a young and largely inexperienced roster. Having someone around to act as a sounding board for ideas and the creative process is only going to help them all grow.

Jim Ross spoke about the fact that AEW gives a lot of their wrestlers’ creative room. A level of freedom that might not be afforded elsewhere. Like him or loathe him, Jim Ross is an experienced head who has been there, done that and got BBQ sauce on the t-shirt.

Chelsea Green Details Her Return To Impact Wrestling

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Chelsea Green has had a big week. Despite having a broken arm, Green made surprise appearances on the ROH PPV on July 11th and then Impact’s Slammiversary PPV on July 17th.

Green talked about returning to Impact Wrestling on her “Green with Envy” podcast. She said that she contacted Impact immediately following her release from WWE.

 “It was definitely my first instinct when I got fired from WWE to pick up the phone and call my old bosses at Impact Wrestling,” Green said (transcriptions via Fightful).

“I left Impact on great terms with everyone and kept in touch with everyone throughout the years.”

She continued to say that her old bosses at Impact knew that she had to find out for herself if WWE was right for her.

“Impact welcomed me back with open arms and I’m so thankful for them,” she continued.

Green also talked about how the Maryland Athletic Commission would not allow her to wrestle with a broken arm. This prevented her from wrestling at ROH’s Best in the World PPV. Green did wrestle on Slammiversary, however. She teamed with her partner Matt Cardona and defeated the team of Brian Myers and Tenille Dashwood.

 “[Tennessee] doesn’t have a health commission. So they cannot ban me from wrestling with a broken arm. So, I f***ing did it. Last week, I was upset that I couldn’t wrestle for Ring of Honor in the Women’s Championship tournament, but I understood why. The Maryland commission was not having it, but in Nashville, it’s balls to the wall and we were good to go.”

In addition to now appearing for both ROH and Impact, Green has made no secret that she hopes to be on the NWA Empowerrr show next month.

STARZ Releases Trailer For Heels, Premiering Aug. 15th (Video)

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STARZ has released an extended trailer for Heels, a new original drama series based on the world of independent pro wrestling.

Heels premieres Sunday, August 15th at 9pm (Eastern).

https://youtu.be/dKFfSSXavYc

Heels stars Stephen Amell as Jack Spade, with Alexander Ludwig playing his younger brother, Ace. STARZ sent in a press release that includes the following synopsis and character overview:

“Heels is a story about the men and women who chase their dreams in the world of small town pro wrestling. Set in a close-knit Georgia community, it follows a family-owned wrestling promotion as two brothers and rivals war over their late father’s legacy. In the ring, somebody must play the good guy and somebody must play their nemesis, the heel. But in the real world, those characters can be hard to live up to — or hard to leave behind.

The drama series also stars Alison Luff as Staci Spade, Jack’s wife who learns that she has to contend with the emotional stakes her in-laws have invested in their wrestling goals and the demands it puts on her family; Mary McCormack as Willie Day, Jack’s business partner and the logistical brains behind the local wrestling organization; Kelli Berglund as Crystal Tyler, Ace’s valet and love interest; Allen Maldonado as Rooster Robbins, one of the best wrestlers in the circuit who always has something to prove and always backs it up; two-time Super Bowl champion James Harrison as Apocalypse, a been-around-the-block journeyman wrestler who’s been at it for decades and has no illusions of fame or glory; and Chris Bauer as Wild Bill Hancock, a larger-than-life former wrestling star who is now a high-level pro wrestling scout.”

Bianca Belair Calls Bayley A “Legend In The Making”

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Bianca Belair was supposed to face Bayley in an “I Quit Match” at Money in the Bank on Sunday. Bayley tore her ACL, however, and the match was canceled. In WWE storyline, Belair likely doesn’t have too many positive things to say about Bayley but in reality, she recently praised her as a “legend in the making.”

“It meant everything for me to work with Bayley,” Belair said to Sports Illustrated. “She’s been there every step of the way for me until now. She gave me momentum going into the Royal Rumble, we came full circle after WrestleMania, and she helped show the SmackDown universe who I am. She brought out a whole new side of me at Hell in a Cell.”

“When you’re in the ring with Bayley, it’s different. You have this full confidence that things are always going to go well.”

Belair would continue to say that Bayley is a true leader in the locker room. The Smackdown Women’s Champion believes Bayley’s absence over the next 9 months is going to be felt by the roster.

“Bayley is a locker room leader, and an amazing person inside and out. I’ve watched and learned from her, the way she handles situations and adapts so easily and quickly. She has the ability to make things look so easy. We’re going to miss her so much while she’s out. She’s a legend in the making, but she does so much more than just make it about herself. She gives and contributes so much to the locker room.”

The full interview with Bianca Belair can be read here.

Naomi Moved To Smackdown

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Naomi had been assigned to RAW ever since last October’s WWE Draft. According to a report from PW Insider, however, Naomi has officially been moved back to Smackdown. She joins her husband Jimmy Uso on the brand.

Smackdown is the brand where Naomi has arguably had her most success. The 34-year-old is a 2x Smackdown Women’s Champion. Naomi won the title for the first time at Elimination Chamber on February 12th, 2017 after defeating then-champion, Alexa Bliss. She would suffer a knee injury shortly after and be forced to vacate the title, however.

Naomi would win the Smackdown Women’s Championship for the 2nd time a couple of months later at WrestleMania 33. The event that year was held in her hometown of Orlando, Florida. Her victory at WM33 was in a 6-way match that also included Becky Lynch, Carmella, Mickie James, Natalya, and Alexa Bliss who was once again champion come then.

With the recent injury to Bayley, WWE has added several names to the Smackdown women’s division as of late. Shotzi and Nox debuted on the brand recently and Toni Storm is scheduled to this week. Other wrestlers in the division include Liv Morgan, Carmella, Sasha Banks, Zelina Vega, champion Bianca Belair, and tag champs Natalya & Tamina.

AEW Dynamite Headed To Cincinnati, Ohio Following All Out (9/8)

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All Elite Wrestling is headed to Cincinnati, Ohio for the first-time later this summer.

AEW Dynamite will emanate from Cincinnati’s Fifth Third Arena on Wednesday, September 8th. This will be a ‘PPV fallout’ week, taking place just three days after the upcoming AEW All Out pay-per-view from Chicago.

Tickets for AEW Dynamite’s Cincinnati debut go on sale this Friday at AEWTix.com and start at just $25.

AEW released this video of Jon Moxley announcing Dynamite is headed to his hometown:

AEW Dynamite Upcoming Schedule

The following is an updated look at AEW’s road to All Out:

  • 7/21: Garland, TX (Fyter Fest: Night 2)
  • 7/28: Charlotte, NC (Fight for the Fallen)
  • 8/4: Jacksonville, FL (Homecoming)
  • 8/11: Pittsburgh, PA
  • 8/18: Houston, TX
  • 8/25: Milwaukee, WI
  • 9/1: Chicago, IL

Impact Hyping AEW & NJPW Involvement At Bound For Glory

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Impact Wrestling’s next PPV will be Bound For Glory on October 23rd from Las Vegas. This news was announced during the Slammiversary show on Saturday night. The video Impact released to promote the PPV features the logos for AEW, NJPW, and AAA.

The video begins with flashes of the Las Vegas cityscape interspersed with images of wrestlers from Impact’s roster. Then beginning at the 24 second mark of the below video, flashes of AEW’s logo, NJPW’s logo, and AAA’s logo are shown.

Impact Wrestling Talent-Sharing Agreements

Perhaps no other promotion in wrestling right now is diving in deeper through the forbidden door than Impact. Slammiversary on Saturday closed with former IWGP Heavyweight Champion and leader of Bullet Club, Jay White confronting Impact World Champion Kenny Omega. The camera cut away before fans could see if White would “2 Sweet” members of the Elite.

Impact has brought in talent from all 3 promotions featured in the video teaser in recent months. Black Taurus from AAA has joined the Decay faction along with Crazzy Steve, Rosemary, and now Havok. NJPW has sent FinJuice, Satoshi Kojima, El Phantasmo, and now Jay White. AEW has sent Kenny Omega, Private Party, Matt Hardy, and others.

Although the NWA logo is not shown in the video, Impact and Billy Corgan’s company appear to have established a relationship. Former NWA Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa wrestled Deonna Purrazzo at Slammiversary. Mickie James then invited Purrazzo to NWA Empowerrr next month in St. Louis. Ring of Honor has also had some online interactions with Purrazzo recently. Chelsea Green also appeared as a surprise on both an ROH and Impact PPV over the last two weekends.

Johnny Gargano On Indi Hartwell and Austin Theory “They Are The Future”

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Leader of The Way, Johnny Gargano has spoken about how much he is enjoying working with both Indi Hartwell and Austin Theory. Both wrestlers are young and upcoming talents within WWE, and Gargano is relishing playing the mentor role both on and off-screen.

“I’m going to make the best of the time I have with Austin and Indi because I know and firmly believe… like… they were handpicked by me and Candice because we know they are the future of what we do. Both have great attitudes. They have so much charisma, so much character and so much athletic ability. It looks like we made them in a freakin’ lab. I think the world of Austin and Indi, so we’re gonna make the best of the time we have with them because they’re gonna make this company a lot of money for a long time.” Johnny Gargano said in a recent interview with Sportskeeda

Johnny Gargano Is Enjoying Life in NXT

Johnny Gargano’s is enjoying life in NXT these days. He has been part of the NXT roster since 2015, and despite a few appearances on the main roster, is a man content with where he is. A former NXT tag team champion alongside Tomasso Ciampa. He also held the North American Championship and is a former NXT champion. His name can easily be thrown into the main event mix. As shown by his recent title match with Karrion Kross.

Now, as leader of The Way, Johnny Gargano is playing a comedic heel role that fits him perfectly. Working alongside his real-life wife Candice LeRae, as the pseudo parents of Indi Hartwell and Austin Theory. It is an interesting group that has made it work thanks to good chemistry and organic growth. The original plan for the group was far different from how it has evolved.

Johnny Gargano is a great wrestler and a big name who can throw down with the very best of them. With The Way gaining momentum as a group, the sky is the limit for what they could achieve as a faction.

Kevin Nash Picks Wrestlemania 14 as the Moment WCW was Finished

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Kevin Nash’s appearance on Broken Skull Sessions final aired and he certainly had plenty to say. Including a long discussion on the exact moment he realized WWE would win the Monday Night War.

When Kevin Nash and Scott Hall jumped ship to WCW and formed the NWO with Hulk Hogan it was wrestling history. However, it was exactly that moment that contributed to the eventual downfall of WCW.

“So, we’re flying back that night, and Bischoff goes ‘We’re gonna put Vince [McMahon] out of business,’” Kevin Nash remembered. “I said, ‘Dude, do you realize what happened tonight? The perception that two guys from WWE jumped ship and are going to take over your company — the people believe that. They think two guys can beat 100. No, you’re not gonna put him out of business. He’ll sit back and watch it.’ Hogan said the same thing, that’s what Vince did. Vince sat back and watched.”

Kevin Nash Believes Wrestlemania 14 Was the Turning Point in the Ratings Wars

As Kevin Nash and Austin spoke, they talked about the infamous Monday Night Wars. Nash wasted no time in picking the exact moment that he realized that WWE was always going to be the winning team.

“And I won’t forget the day in my life when Tyson came to WrestleMania [14],” Nash said. “Every WrestleMania match had a movie quality trailer in front of it, in case you hadn’t been watching, you were caught up. Kane was shooting fire, everybody — it was amazing. The next day I go to TV, and I just knew. You know, man, you watch something, you’re smart to the business.”

According to Kevin Nash, the atmosphere changed after that Wrestlemania. The results were as good as written on the wall.

Kevin Nash’s appearance on Stone Cold’s Broken Skull Sessions should have been part of the NWO celebration week. It was a good chat. Kevin Nash has been a big player in many different ways throughout his career, and despite problems along the way, he remains the coolest guy in the room.

GCW Invite Kenny Omega To Homecoming for Nick Gage Match

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AEW Champion Kenny Omega appeared in the main event of the IMPACT Slammiversary PPV this weekend against Sami Callihan.

Omega successfully retained his IMPACT World Championship at the show, and IMPACT seemed to push the ‘forbidden door’ angle even further with a tease of AAA, AEW, IMPACT and NJPW all being represented at the upcoming Bound For Glory PPV event.

During the Slammiversary event, Don Callis would say that Omega was ‘tougher’ than GCW Champion and Deathmath King, Nick Gage. After hearing this on the broadcast, Game Changer Wrestling would invite Kenny Omega to take part in their Homecoming event next weekend.

“GCW tweeted, “Omega “tougher” than Gage? @TheDonCallis what are you smoking pal?” The promotion responded.

Kenny Omega vs Nick Gage

“You and Kenny are welcome to come and prove it but you have to get in line & the line starts this Saturday at #GCWHomecoming Weekend in AC… Saturday: GAGE vs CARDONA Sunday: GAGE vs OMEGA??? See ya there???” GCW added.

It is not confirmed if this is part of the ongoing forbidden door angle, or if Game Changer Wrestling are attempting to just get some more buzz for the PPV shows next weekend.

GCW Homecoming Night 1 (July 24) and Night 2 (July 25) takes place in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Nick Gage will be defending his GCW Championship against Matt Cardona/Zack Ryder on night 1. Both shows will be available to view on FITE TV.

Charlotte Flair Cuts Babyface Promo Backstage After Money In The Bank

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WWE RAW Superstar Charlotte Flair defeated Rhea Ripley at Money In The Bank to become a 14-time Women’s Champion in the company.

Flair spoke to WWE cameras following the win backstage and was extremely complementary of her opponent; possibly signalling that she is turning face now or in the near future.

“I think she definitely got the point tonight” Flair began backstage. “But I also got the point. She’s a student of the game, literally, and she’s not that far behind.”

“I just got the upper hand in the end. I’m the dirtiest player for a reason, so…” Flair continued.

Charlotte Flair on Rhea Ripley

“I won this title for the first time at WrestleMania 32, and to have it back with the crowd back feels pretty surreal” Flair would add, again seemingly adding some potential ‘face’ nuance to her promo.

“You never really know what you have until it’s gone and tonight feels amazing. It couldn’t have gone any better” the new RAW Women’s Champion would conclude.

It was rumored throughout the night that Becky Lynch may have been making her return to the company at the event.

Even with Lynch trolling the audience with a teaser tweet; this didn’t occur, so the potential for ‘The Man’ to return to try and win back the RAW Women’s Championship that she never lost could still be on the cards in the coming weeks.

Kenny Omega on Fighting Jay White “It Was A One Time Thing”

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When Jay White showed up at IMPACT Slammiversary, the wrestling world sat up straight and paid attention. The history between Jay White and Kenny Omega is rich and prime for a re-visit. The idea of another match between them would be television gold. Their last match, in 2018 is a criminally underrated affair that saw Jay White pick up a huge victory.

That loss remains a sore point with Kenny Omega, who took to Twitter following his successful title defence against Sami Callihan. Omega seems eager to put to bed any idea of a fight between him and White.

However, in pro-wrestling terms that means it’s a done deal, and now we just have to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Omega has been a dominant champion, holding belts in three different companies. While he doesn’t defend the belts week in week out, he has been in regular action. This mentality follows the thinking echoed in NJPW. Saving title matches for big occasions.

Kenny Omega and Jay White is a Story That Runs Deep

There is far more to the story between Kenny Omega and Jay White than just the IMPACT Heavyweight Championship. That is not to dismiss the belt, but a simple fact.

The pair have met in singles competition twice before. Both coming during Kenny Omega’s NJPW run. They hold one victory apiece. A third match between the pair would be a spectacle without a doubt. To make the pot even sweeter, both men currently hold a championship. Could a belt vs belt clash be on the cards?

Jay White replaced Kenny Omega as the leader of the Bullet Club and the animosity between the pair runs deep. Especially with the way the Elite left NJPW after the ‘Civil War’ between them and the OGBC.

Should Kenny Omega and White square off, whether it is for one title, both titles, or just retribution, it will be a firecracker of a match.