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John Cena Rumored For Headline Match At SummerSlam

Anutosh Bajpai
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There has been some chatter within WWE about the current universal champion Roman Reigns possibly defending his title against John Cena in the main event of SummerSlam this year.

WWE recently announced their return to touring for July. The cenation leader’s comeback has been in discussion for the company’s first show back on the road which will the July 16 SmackDown from Houston.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter is now reporting that people within the promotion have talked about Reigns vs. Cena as a top match for SummerSlam, though nobody has been able to confirm if this is the plan.

On a related note, the Observer claims that despite their ongoing feud, there are currently no plans for Jimmy Uso to challenge for the universal championship at the upcoming Hell In A Cell PPV.

There is no word yet on who could be Roman Reigns’ opponent for the PPV if not his cousin. Though Paul Heyman recently teased Shinsuke Nakamura as a potential future opponent for the tribal chief.

John Cena has faced the current champion in a one on match before. The two squared off at the No Mercy PPV in September 2017 and the big dog came out victorious in that bout.

What do you think about a potential Roman Reigns vs. John Cena rematch main eventing the SummerSlam PPV this year?

DDP Heading To Colombia For Stem Cell Therapy

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

WWE Hall of Famer and wrestling veteran Diamond Dallas Page aka DDP has announced that he is heading to Colombia for stem cell therapy.

The former WWE star posted a video on his Twitter earlier where he revealed that he is looking to get stem cell therapy for the various parts of his body:

“Hey guys it’s me, Diamond Dallas Page, WWE Hall Of Famer. After years of pro wrestling beating up my body, I can’t tell you how excited I am to be heading to Medellin, Colombia to see my good friends at bio accelerator,

Because they are gonna hook me up with some serious stem cells, in my neck, in my back, in my shoulders, and in my knees. I am looking for bio accelerator to take me from 65 years old to 65 years young and that’s a fact.”

https://twitter.com/RealDDP/status/1398453080966975489

A former WCW world champion, Diamond Dallas Page has been active in the wrestling business for more than three decades since his debut in 1988.

He has made appearances for almost all major promotions in the US in this time. The list includes companies such as WCW, WWE, Impact Wrestling and AEW as well. There is no word yet on how long DDP will stay in Columbia for the treatment but we will keep you posted on his whereabouts.

WWE SmackDown Results (5/28): Tag Title Match, The Usos vs. Street Profits

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the ThunderDome. The Usos returned to action to battle Street Profits. Rey Mysterio and Dominik put the SmackDown Tag Team Championships on the line against Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode tonight as well.

SmackDown Results (5/28)

  1. The Usos def. Street Profits
  2. Tamina & Natalya def. Riott Squad
  3. Bianca Belair def. Carmella
  4. Kevin Owens def. Apollo Crews via DQ
  5. Shinsuke Nakamura def. Chad Gable
  6. Rey & Dominik def. Roode & Ziggler to retain the SmackDown Tag Team Championships

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

The Usos Picked Up A Win

The Usos were shown backstage getting ready for their match against Street Profits. Universal Champion Roman Reigns showed up and wished them luck. Roman asked what the gameplan was and Jimmy said it was to win. Jimmy walked off and Jey had a down look on his face. Jey told Roman that even though he is with Jimmy tonight, he is with Reigns as well. Roman said that maybe Jey should tell his brother that as Jey walked away.

Jimmy and Jey battled the Street Profits in the first match of the night. Angelo leveled Jimmy with a shoulder tackle and tagged in Ford. Jey tagged in and Montez greeted him with an Arm Drag. Angelo tagged in and planted Jey with a Suplex for a two count.

Jimmy tagged in and applied a Headlock to Dawkins in the middle of the ring. Dawkins escaped and tagged in Ford. Montez connected with a Dropkick and the Street Profits took back control of the match as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Jey sent Ford into the barricade outside the ring. Back in the ring, Jey connected with a Suplex and tagged in Jimmy as Reigns watched on from backstage. The Usos isolated Montez in the ring and dragged Angelo off the ring apron to prevent a tag.

Angelo eventually got the tag and connected with an Elbow Drop on Jimmy for a two count. Montez Ford hit an unreal Suicide Dive over the ring post on Jey outside the ring. Dawkins hit a Spinebuster and Montez made his way to the top rope. Ford went for the Frog Splash but Jey pulled Jimmy out of the way at the last moment. Jimmy then booted Montez in the face for the pinfall victory.

Later on SmackDown, The Usos approached Adam Pearce backstage and said that they wanted a title match next week. Adam Pearce made the match official and the winners of the tag title match tonight will defend against Jimmy & Jey on next week’s show.

Reigns had a conversation with Jey backstage and said he hates to see him going back to the opening match with his brother in reference to their title match next week.

Tamina & Natalya Dominated

Natalya & Tamina faced Riott Squad in a non-title match. The match started during a commercial break and Riott Squad dominated the action early. Natalya fought her way out of the corner and tagged in Tamina. Snuka climbed to the top rope as Natalya sent Liv Morgan to the floor. Tamina hit the Superfly Splash on Ruby Riott for the pinfall victory.

Bianca Belair def. Carmella

Bianca Belair squared off against Carmella on this week’s episode of SmackDown. Bayley interrupted just before the bell rang and joined commentary for the match. Bianca sent Carmella to the corner and beat her down to begin the action. Carmella connected with a Facebuster on the ring apron for a near fall.

Carmella went for a Crossbody but Belair countered into a Fallaway Slam for a two count. Carmella battled back with a Superkick and went for the cover but Belair was able to kick out at two. Belair blocked the Code of Silence and hit the KOD for the pinfall victory.

Seth Rollins Wished Himself A Happy Birthday

Seth Rollins made his way down the entrance ramp as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Seth Rollins shouted that he was here for a fight and demanded that Cesaro come to the ring so they can finish this now. Rollins joked that Cesaro isn’t here to ruin his birthday and rolled highlights of his brutal attack on Cesaro last week.

Seth played “exclusive audio” from Cesaro’s hospital room and it was the beeps of a heart monitor with a man in pain. Rollins claimed that he was sorry for what he did to Cesaro and that he blacked out. Seth of course then began blaming Cesaro and the fans for his own actions. Seth added that the fans are brainwashed and sung Happy Birthday to himself to end the promo.

Commander Azeez Attacked Kevin Owens

Kevin Owens faced Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews tonight and Commander Azeez was ringside. Owens started off the match in control and sent Apollo to the corner. Kevin connected with a Cannonball and followed it up with a Senton for a two count. Owens went for the Pop-Up Powerbomb but Apollo blocked it. Owens then hit the Stunner but Azeez attacked him right away to end the match in a DQ. Azeez hit Owens with the Nigerian Nail after the match.

Adam Pearce checked on Kevin Owens backstage later on the show. Owens said he wanted a title match with Commander Azeez banned from ringside and Pearce agreed.

Nakamura def. Gable

Shinsuke Nakamura faced Chad Gable tonight. Before the match, Otis attacked Nakamura and slammed him to the canvas. Gable capitalized with a couple of Belly to Belly Suplexes for a two count. Nakamura battled back and then knocked Otis off the ring apron.

Gable went for a Moonsault off the top rope but Nakamura got out of the way. Shinsuke followed it up with a roundhouse kick to the face and then rolled Gable up for the victory. After the match, King Corbin had taken his crown back and was basing about to but Rick Boogs attacked him from behind. Boogs then took the crown back for Nakamura.

Rey & Dominik Retained

Rey Mysterio and Dominik defended the SmackDown Tag Team Championships against Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode in the main event of this week’s show. Roode and Ziggler made their way to the ring first and said that they are not responsible for what happened. Ziggler said that the referee should start counting as Rey and Dominik hadn’t come to the ring yet. It was revealed that someone attacked Rey Mysterio and Dominik made his way to the ring by himself.

Dominik then faced Roode and Ziggler when SmackDown returned from a break. Ziggler caught him with a Dropkick for an early near fall. Roode tagged in and planted Dominik with a Suplex for another two count. Dominik dodged a Knee Drop but turned around into a Clothesline from Dolph Ziggler.

Dolph raked Dominik’s face across the top rope and then planted him with a Neckbreaker for a two count. Rey Mysterio’s music then hit and he came down to the entrance ramp. Dominik capitalized on the distraction and rolled up Roode for the pinfall victory. After the match, The Usos had a stare down with Rey and Dominik as Reigns watched on from backstage.

Tony Khan To WWE’s Nick Khan: “There’s Only Room For One Khan In The Pro Wrestling Business”

Andrew Ravens
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AEW President Tony Khan decided to have some fun when he sent a taunting message to WWE President & Chief Revenue Officer Nick Khan in a video shared on Twitter. 

The big story on Friday was how the WWE President has been negotiating with NJPW for the last few months about WWE becoming the exclusive North American partner for NJPW. AEW does have a working relationship with NJPW right now. 

Tony hyped Friday’s Dynamite show on TNT and then had some interesting things to say about Nick. 

Tony started out by noting that he saw Nick has had reported talks with NJPW and gotten a lot done while he’s had the likes of Yuji Nagata, Ren Narita, and Rocky Romero on AEW programming before bringing up having a Roppongi Vice reunion in addition to IWGP United States Champion Jon Moxley defending the title on Dynamite. 

“So you must’ve really gotten a lot done in the two months, Nick, and in fact, I think there’s only room for one Khan in the wrestling business, Nick, and it’s me. It’s Tony Khan, it’s not some con-man from Connecticut. Have a fun show tonight, Nick, see you on Dynamite.”

The AEW President has done these types of promos during the paid ads on Impact Wrestling. 

Update On Events That Led To Velveteen Dream’s WWE Release

Andrew Ravens
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Earlier this month, The Velveteen Dream (Patrick Clark) was released from WWE NXT. 

His release came after he hadn’t been seen on TV since his December 2020 loss to Adam Cole. It turns out his departure was not related to the allegations against him, but rather it came after a top talent went to management to alert them about an incident that Dream was involved in, according to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. 

As it stands right now, there’s no word yet on which star came forward or what the incident was about. 

Shortly after his release, it was reported Dream had behavioral issues during his time with the company but stayed on the roster because he had support from higher management, and this caused concern among Dream’s co-workers. 

Regarding these issues, it was said this period came from his time in NXT, and from when he went to other places such as EVOLVE.

Dream had issued a lengthy statement on his departure this week where he blamed the allegations for not only derailing any upward momentum he had with the company but thinks his release was due to the allegations. He did declare that the “Dream is officially over” but Patrick Clark will live to fight another day.

Kenny Omega Discusses Will Ospreay Vacating IWGP Heavyweight Title

Andrew Ravens
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Kenny Omega was the top North American talent to work in NJPW, but when he left the promotion for AEW, NJPW had to find someone to fill that role and they decided on Will Ospreay. 

Ospreay rose up the ranks and eventually became the IWGP Heavyweight Champion. However, after winning it earlier this year, Ospreay had to vacate it due to an injury. 

Omega did an interview with Sports Illustrated and spoke about Ospreay no longer being the champion. He started out by noting that he pulled aside Ospreay and Jay White when he left to tell them it’s in their hands to represent “at least the western expansion and the pride of the foreigners” because he knew NJPW would look to them to carry it. 

The reason he told them was that he knew it was a likely scenario and also hoping to light a fire under both of them. He continued by noting that Ospreay really came into his own and made a complete career shift, and he was going to be a fantastic champion. Omega thinks Ospreay became the person that he needed to be the champion of the company.

“Unfortunately, becoming champion wasn’t enough for him. He tried to fill my shoes. Physically, even though he is one of the most gifted performers to ever step foot in the ring, there is only one Kenny Omega—and you can’t fill those shoes. 

Thus, now his belt is vacant, so perhaps it was always meant to be my belt and my belt alone. That’s not me making a firm statement as to whether I’ll make a venture out there, just that there is no one there that can fill my shoes or override my legacy. When Ospreay comes back, he’ll have to re-analyze who he is and who he’s meant to be, because he’s not meant to be me.”

Omega will defend the AEW World Heavyweight Championship against PAC and Orange Cassidy this Sunday at Double Or Nothing.

Tony Khan Says AEW Will Undergo A Huge Expansion This Year

Andrew Ravens
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AEW President Tony Khan is pumped for what’s in store for the promotion this year. He talked about it during the latest episode of the AEW Unrestricted podcast with Aubrey Edwards and Tony Schiavone where they previewed this Sunday’s Double or Nothing. 

“There’s going to be a huge expansion of AEW, and I think that’s where Double or Nothing comes in.” 

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Khan touted Double or Nothing is one of AEW’s signature events and says they expect Sunday’s show to be one of the best pay-per-views they’ve presented. He thinks having the return of crowds is going to help boost this great card.

“I also think we have to start expanding the roster in AEW, and there’s going to be great moments, great surprises on the show.”

Khan stated that they’re doing just that and going to deliver an awesome wrestling pay-per-view for the fans. He’s excited about what they have in store for wrestling fans this year and said the company is going to change. “I’m very happy with what we’ve done in these first two years, and now is the time to build off it and grow.”

It’s already been confirmed Dynamite will move to TBS in January 2022 while they’ll be premiering a new one-hour weekly show, Rampage, on TNT starting in August.

WWE’s Talks With NJPW Involve Daniel Bryan (Report)

Andrew Ravens
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The biggest story on Friday was news of the talks between WWE and NJPW. It was first reported by Dave Meltzer that WWE President & Chief Revenue Officer Nick Khan recently reached out to NJPW and began talks about a potential working relationship. 

PWinsider.com reports Daniel Bryan was a topic of discussion in the recent talks as it stated the main crux of the talks had to do with the potential of Bryan being able to work some dates for NJPW.

It was added that the talks have been going on for several months. As it stands right now, nothing has been reached yet as they’ve had talks on and off for some time now. Even though NJPW has had talks with WWE, it won’t impact their relationships AEW and Impact Wrestling for now. 

If an agreement is reached then it would mark the first time that they’ve worked together since the 1970s.

Bryan’s future has been heavily speculated about since his last appearance on WWE TV when he dropped a loss to WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns on the April 30 SmackDown with the stipulation that if Bryan lost then he would be banned from SmackDown. 

This was the storyline reason for his disappearance from TV as his contract expired at that time. At first, the belief was he would remain with WWE in some capacity, but there has been no update on his status as of late. 

Shaquille O’Neal Says He’ll Be Wrestling Again This Summer

Chris Stephens
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Shaquille O’Neal says that he’ll be back inside a wrestling ring soon. The NBA legend was asked on an episode of NBA on TNT when he’ll be wrestling again and he responded that he expects to wrestle again this summer.

“Soon. This Summer,” said the 49-year-old.  

O’Neal has two official pro-wrestling matches on his record. He competed in the 2016 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania 32. It seemed as though his appearance in the match was to set-up a program with the Big Show. That program never seemed to develop, however.

O’Neal’s second official match in wrestling came just under 3 months ago in AEW. O’Neal teamed with Jade Cargill and defeated the team of Cody Rhodes and Red Velvet. The match took place on March 3rd’s “Crossroads” event. While Shaq’s team came out on the winning end of the match, he was sent through two tables and taken away in an ambulance. Cargill pinned Velvet to win the match for her team.

It is believed that Shaq had been training for the match for awhile. His preparation for Crossroads was addressed by Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live.

“I talked to several people and what I’ve gathered is that Shaq has been training for awhile,” Alvarez said on the show.

“I know there were rumors that he had been secretly training since the summer, I don’t know if it’s been that long,” Alvarez continued. 

SummerSlam Moved To Saturday 8/21, Plans For Location, Main Event, Host

Chris Stephens
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When WWE presents the 34th edition of SummerSlam this August, it will take place on a Saturday rather than the traditional Sunday night. The company has announced that the show’s date has officially been moved from Sunday August 22nd to Saturday, August 21st.

“WWE today announced that SummerSlam 2021 will take place on Saturday, August 21 from a summer destination location,” reads a WWE press release for the event.

The date change moves the show onto the same day as the Manny Pacquiao vs. Errol Spence Jr. fight in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium is among the frontrunners to host the venue, with stadiums located in Miami, Inglewood, Houston and Nasvhille also under consideration.

SummerSlam Main Event, Host

The rumored main event for SummerSlam 2021 is said to be John Cena taking on Roman Reigns. That has not been confirmed, however, but WWE is said to have big plans for Cena’s return to the company.

Other reports have indicated that WWE plans to have a “bizarre” host for SummerSlam this year. The host will apparently fit with a planned theme for the show.

Upcoming WWE Tour Dates

WWE also announced the following tour dates:

  • Saturday, July 24: Supershow – PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh
  • Sunday, July 25: Supershow – KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Ky.
  • Saturday, July 31: Supershow – Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee
  • Sunday, August 1: Supershow – Little Caesars Arena in Detroit
  • Monday, August 2: Raw – Allstate Arena in Chicago
  • Friday, August 6: SmackDown – Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla.
  • Saturday, August 7: Supershow – Hertz Arena in Fort Myers, Fla.
  • Sunday, August 8: Supershow – Stephen O’Connell Center in Gainesville, Fla.
  • Monday, August 9: Raw – Amway Center in Orlando, Fla.
  • Friday, August 13: SmackDown – BOK Center in Tulsa, Okla.
  • Saturday, August 14: Supershow – Spectrum Center in Charlotte, N.C.
  • Sunday, August 15: Supershow – Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, S.C.
  • Monday, August 16: Raw – AT&T Center in San Antonio
  • Friday, August 20: SmackDown – Phoenix Suns Arena in Phoenix
  • Saturday, August 21: SummerSlam (Venue TBD)
  • Sunday, August 22: Supershow – Ball Arena in Denver
  • Monday, August 23: Raw – Pechanga Arena in San Diego
  • Friday, August 27: SmackDown – Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock, Ark.
  • Monday, August 30: Raw – Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City
  • Friday, September 3: SmackDown – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Fla.
  • Monday, September 6: Raw – American Airlines Arena in Miami

Impact Results (5/27): Satoshi Kojima Challenges Joe Doering, Good Brothers vs Moose & Callihan

Chris Stephens
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Impact Wrestling 5/27 featured Moose & Sami Callihan teaming up to take on the Good Brothers. Matches were booked for Against All Odds and Satoshi Kojima arrived to challenge Joe Doering.

Impact Wrestling 5/27 Quick Results:

  1. TJP & Fallah Bah defeated Josh Alexander & Petey Williams
  2. Rosemary, Jordynne Grace, Rachael Ellering, Tenille Dashwood, & Havok defeated Deonna Purrazzo, Kiera Hogan, Tasha Steelz, Kimber Lee & Susan
  3. Crazzy Steve & Taurus (Decay) defeated Johnny Swinger & Hernandez
  4. The Good Brothers defeated Sami Callihan & Moose

TJP Pins X-Division Champion Josh Alexander, Ironman Match Booked For BTI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfkyXUHexnE

TJP and Fallah Bah teamed up to defeat Petey Williams and X-Division Champion Josh Alexander this week. The finish of the match saw TJP pin Alexander with the Mamba Splash. The pinfall over the X-Division Champion should put TJP in line for the next shot at the title. It also moved TJP and Fallah Bah up the rankings in the tag-team division.

Later in the show, TJP challenged Alexander to another match for the title. Scott D’Amore then interjected and made an Ironman match for “Before the Impact” the company’s pre-show weekly event. That match will take place next week. TJP and Alexander shook hands after the match was booked.

W. Morrissey Rips Fans For Recording Him Suffering A Seizure

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lWAHkontss

W. Morrissey is not happy with how fans and others from the wrestling industry have treated him in the past. He cut an intense promo this week and referred to the time that fans recorded him suffering a seizure at a House of Hardcore event in late 2018. He also ripped his current rivals, Willie Mack and Rich Swann, before Swann appeared out of nowhere and attacked.

Rosemary Pins Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoPnRUb68EE

The second singles champion to be pinned on the show this week was Deonna Purrazzo. In a 10-person Knockouts tag-team match, Rosemary picked up the win for the babyface side when she hit a double-underhook slam on the champion and got the 3-count.

Satoshi Kojima vs Joe Doering In Impact Wrestling

Violent By Design cut a promo this week celebrating their tag title victory over FinJuice last week. Young reminded everyone that this world does not belong to you, it belongs to them. Satoshi Kojima then hit the ring and stared down his longtime rival from AJPW, Joe Doering. These two haven’t met since 2010 but the last time they did, Kojima defended the Triple Crown title against him in a show from Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan.

Kojima challenged Joe Doering to another match at Against All Odds. While Doering didn’t say anything at the time, he would later accept the challenge in a backstage interview.

Matt Cardona Out 12 Weeks With Broken Orbital Bone, Brian Myers Doesn’t Care

It was revealed this week that Matt Cardona will be out of action for 12 weeks with a broken orbital bone following the attack last week by Brian Myers. While Dr. Foreman was giving an update on Cardona’s condition, Myers interrupted, seemingly irate that they are wasting time talking about Cardona on the show. Sam Beale then walked in and this seemed to irritate Bad Mood Brian as well. Myers then told Beale he is going to teach him to be “professional.”

Decay Pick Up Victory Over Johnny Swinger & Hernandez

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34sbs09yptw

Before Crazzy Steve and Taurus took on Johnny Swinger and Hernandez, they got into a backstage altercation with Violent By Design. Crazzy Steve berated Deaner for being a follower and set up what could be a possible match between the two down the line. It was noted that both Crazzy Steve and Deaner were trained by Eric Young. Decay then picked up the victory over the pair from Swinger’s Palace, Johnny Swinger and Hernandez after Steve hit Swinger with a flying DDT.

Moose and Sami Callihan Implode in Match Against The Good Brothers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MNk5vi79bc

Moose is the number 1 contender for Omega’s Impact World title but Sami Callihan seems to be interjecting himself into things as well. Callihan cut a promo to start the show that was interrupted by Moose who reminded Callihan that he is the one to challenge Omega next. This led to a match where Callihan and Moose teamed up against the Good Brothers.

The two could not get along during the match, however, and Moose delivered a pump kick to Callihan while he was setting up Anderson for a piledriver. This led to the Good Brothers giving Callihan the Magic Killer for the win. Moose then took out Callihan with a spear and told him to mind his business to close the show.

Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

The following matches are upcoming in Impact Wrestling:

Before the Impact – Next Week 7 PM est

  • X-Division Championship
    60-Minute Ironman Match
    Josh Alexander (c) vs TJP

Next Week:

  • Tables Match
    Rohit Raju vs Jake Something
  • Satoshi Kojima vs Deaner
  • Knockouts Tag Team Championships
    Fire N Flava (c) vs Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering

Against All Odds – June 12th, 2021

  • Impact World Championship
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Moose
  • Satoshi Kojima vs Joe Doering (Violent By Design)

Big Cass (W. Morrissey) Rips Fans Who Recorded Him Suffering A Seizure

Chris Stephens
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W. Morrissey (the former Big Cass) cut a promo on Impact Wrestling last night that while delivered in character, covered some very real issues. In late-2018, Morrissey suffered a seizure while at a House of Hardcore wrestling event. Some fans filmed him as he was in medical distress and the video was submitted to YouTube, as well as picked up by TMZ and other outlets. He addressed this incident during his promo on Impact last night.

“Every time that I’ve fallen down in this industry, every time that something bad has happened to me or I made headlines for all the wrong reasons, people kicked me when I was down,” Morrissey said. “When I had a seizure in front of 1500 people in Philadelphia, PA, those fans that love us and adore us, do you know what they did? They took out their phones, and instead of dealing 9-1-1 they recorded it and put it on YouTube and then everybody in the world got to watch me at my most vulnerable point.”

Morrissey’s time in Impact Wrestling has been notable thus far. Since debuting in the promotion, Morrissey has been feuding with Willie Mack and now appears to be moving into a program with Rich Swann.

Morrissey’s full promo can be viewed in the player below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lWAHkontss

WWE & NJPW Negotiating For Major Partnership (Report)

Chris Stephens
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0

WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling have had talks regarding a potential partnership that would change the entire landscape of the professional wrestling industry.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE President Nick Khan has been negotiating with NJPW in a deal that would see WWE become NJPW’s exclusive partner in the United States.

“In what could end up being among the biggest wrestling stories of the year, or a non-story, depending on the end result, Nick Khan has been in talks with New Japan Pro Wrestling about WWE being the exclusive American partner with the promotion,” Dave Meltzer wrote.

There have been several indications that something major in pro-wrestling has been brewing. WWE is said to possibly be loosening its stance on not working with other companies. Nick Khan appears to be the driving force behind this. NJPW has been sending talent to Impact Wrestling and AEW over the last few months.

“There are no indications where talks are at past they date back to late March or early April. But it would include WWE sending talent and WWE top stars being allowed to work in New Japan if talks go anywhere,” Meltzer continued.

Where Daniel Bryan Fits In

Daniel Bryan recently made several comments regarding wanting to work with other wrestling companies and WWE at the same time. His recent free agency and teases it could be leading to something major may factor into this. Bryan’s free agency was discussed earlier this month on Wrestling Observer Radio.

“I will just say that if anyone tells you that they know, they are lying to you,” Meltzer said about Bryan’s situation. 

“There’s some crazy things going on in wrestling, some really crazy things going on in wrestling but they haven’t happened yet. I’m sure one of them will be when he shows up somewhere, which could be WWE, could be somewhere else. That’s about it for now,” Meltzer continued.

WWE & NJPW Talent

Bryan also said in recent interviews that he feels WWE wrestlers would do well in NJPW. He used Cesaro and Otis as examples.

“If all of a sudden you saw Cesaro in New Japan for example like people would be like, ‘oh my god, this guy is the greatest!’”

“I think you put Otis in New Japan and people would be like ‘Holy cow! This guy is amazing!’ Like Vader from the 90s type of vibe. People think of him as the worm guy but it’s just a different presentation.”

Bryan also hinted that he would like to see a talent-exchange between NJPW and WWE.

“I’ve brought it up to a lot of people and now is more than ever is a time when people are open to new ideas,” Bryan said during the interview. “I think I have made some headway whether any of it actually happens, who knows?”

“I also think it would just be good for WWE and just wrestling in general. For people that are in the developmental system right now, for them to be able to go and learn in other places. I wouldn’t be the performer I am today if I hadn’t wrestled in Japan and not just like Japan where it’s like sports stuff but also like Butlins in the UK where it’s all comedy.” 

Cody Rhodes Responds To Rumored Heat Among AEW VPs

Anutosh Bajpai
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0

The Young Bucks previously reacted to the reports of infighting among AEW EVPs in their own unique way. Now Cody Rhodes has responded to these claims as well. The former TNT champion held a media conference call ahead of the Double Or Nothing PPV this Sunday where he was asked about the rumors.

Replying to the question, Rhodes who was said to be having trouble with other VPs interestingly suggested that these stories are a result of their win over NXT in the Wednesday night wars. He explained that there is a lot of anger created by their victory and that’s why stories like these don’t surprise him:

“It is one of the things I chopped up as we’ve been very successful, AEW, and with NXT losing the Wednesday Night Wars, that created a lot of anger, and I understand there’s a lot of hardcore NXT and WWE fans out there, and that’s why those stories like that don’t surprise me. I think people need to cling to something, and as sexy as that story is, I talk to Matt and Nick every day.”

The former champion then responded to rumors about his heat with Kenny Omega and how the two are not on talking terms anymore. Cody Rhodes claimed that he talks to the AEW champion very often and all the company vice presidents support each others’ projects:

“I talk to Kenny [Omega] very often. I support their projects fully. They’ve been supportive of all my projects, and we would not be able to put this show on the air, Tony’s [Khan] the man and Tony’s the boss, but we would not be able to put this show on the air if the four of us were not functioning as one team. Unfortunately, it’s not very sexy to say, but there’s no truth to that.”

Rhodes also mentioned their upcoming expansion to TBS. He claimed that they are one team and they will remain one team in the future as the company expands. Apart from this, the AEW VP discussed things such as his current programs and more. Cody Rhodes is currently scheduled to face Anthony Ogogo at the upcoming Double Or Nothing PPV on May 30.

Natalya Reveals Nixed Plans For Her Before Tag Team Title Win

Anutosh Bajpai
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Natalya formed an alliance with Tamina Snuka at the start of this year and their pairing paid off for both the stars in form of their big tag team championship win recently during the May 14 SmackDown.

However, during her recent appearance on the Oral Sessions podcast, the former SmackDown women’s champion revealed that the original plans for her this year were very different.

Natalya talked about her pairing with Tamina during the interview and revealed that she was actually slated for a big program with Sasha Banks before the formation of their tag team:

“I was supposed to go into a big rivalry with Sasha Banks early in the year, and everything changed when Bianca won the Royal Rumble.

I was so excited about wrestling Sasha because I think Sasha is one of the greatest women’s wrestlers in the world, if not the best. And I was just so excited about it.”

After the change of plans, Natalya’s husband Tyson Kidd who works as a backstage producer suggested that she should team up with her current partner.

The former diva’s champion admitted that she was sad at first at her program with Banks getting cancelled but Kidd’s explanation made her excited about teaming with Tamina.

Paul Heyman Teases Brock Lesnar’s Return For Upcoming WWE Show

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE has announced their return to touring for July and now Paul Heyman is teasing the return of Brock Lesnar for the company’s first show back on the road.

The former ECW owner recently appeared on SportsTalk 790 where he talked about a number of things. During the interview, he was also asked about the potential return of the beast incarnate.

Replying to the question, Heyman first mentioned how Lesnar does what he wants to do but he then teased the former universal champion’s return for the upcoming SmackDown episode from Houston:

 “Asking me about Brock Lesnar is a highly intelligent question and I commend you on your efforts. However, it’s a hypothetical. Brock Lesnar does what Brock Lesnar wants to do. If Brock Lesnar wanted to be back in WWE at this moment, at this particular time and place, he would be.

Maybe, maybe he has been waiting for the live events, and maybe he’ll choose Houston to make that return… or maybe not, because Brock Lesnar is going to do whatever Brock Lesnar wants to do.”

WWE has confirmed a total of six locations for their 25 city tour so far. Their first show back on the road will be July 16 episode of SmackDown from Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.

Brock Lesnar is not the only big name which has now been discussed for a potential appearance and reports suggest that John Cena could make his WWE return during the show as well.

Jim Ross Believes AEW Star Has The ‘It Factor’

Anutosh Bajpai
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Legendary wrestling commentator Jim Ross recently had an interview with DAZN where he talked about a number of things and offered high praise to a young AEW star claiming that he will be the next breakout star for them.

The wrestling veteran has a lot of experience in finding potential future stars due to his role as the head of talent management in WWE. He is responsible for signing people such as Brock Lesnar and John Cena.

Ross talked about another star who he believes has the ‘it factor’ during his interview. He praised MJF’s bodyguard Wardlow and compared him to a couple of former world champions.

The “IT” Factor

Wardlow
Wardlow (Photo: AEW)

“Combination of a few guys, Physique wise, he reminds me of Lex Luger. I think he’s going to end up being a much better worker. That’s not knocking Lex. He’s a little like Dave Batista. He’s still evolving. Batista got getting better and better as he got older. He was never going to be confused with Kurt Angle or Dory Funk Jr.

This kid’s got it. He has the ‘IT’ factor. We can’t manufacture the ‘IT’ factor.” said Jim Ross, “You can’t anoint them with the ‘IT’ factor. You have ‘IT’ or don’t have ‘IT’. This kid’s got ‘IT’.”

The AEW commentator explained that Wardlow not only has the big frame that promoters covet but he is also an athletic big man, something which the wrestling fans love.

Jim Ross went on to predict that Wardlow will be the break-out star for AEW in the future and his time could come as soon as this year or in 2022.

Wardlow will be in action this Sunday at AEW Double or Nothing. He’ll compete in the Stadium Stampede match, when his faction The Pinnacle battles The Inner Circle.

Backstage News On Eva Marie’s Return To WWE Programming

Anutosh Bajpai
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WWE has been teasing the return of Eva Marie for several weeks, however latest report suggests that the female star might not be returning in the way many believe.

The company has been airing vignettes for her return and the WWE star has also been training at the performance center for her comeback.

However, the language of the promos have made many believe that Marie might be taking on some sort of managerial role and now a new report from Fightful has confirmed these speculations. The belief is that she will not be wrestling upon her return. The working plan for the female star is for her to be a vehicle to help get another female star over with the fans.

There is no word yet on which female star Eva Marie could be managing in her new role with the company but it’s still interesting to know that she will likely be managing someone instead of making an in ring return.

The All Red Everything was originally signed by WWE to a development contract back in 2013. She went back and forth between the main roster and NXT and in August 2017, it was revealed that she has parted ways with the company.

Mick Foley And Others React To Tom Phillips’ WWE Release

Anutosh Bajpai
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Several wrestling personalities including Mick Foley and others have reacted to the news of WWE broadcaster Tom Phillips getting released by the company.

The WWE Hall Of Famer wrote on Twitter that announcing in the WWE is not an easy job and the released star did it very well. The wrestling veteran also expressed his surprise over the decision.

Former WWE star Aiden English also took on his Twitter. English who now goes by his real name Matt Rehwoldt said that he was grateful to Phillips for taking a chance on him.

The last surprising name to comment on his release was AEW star Dax Harwood who claimed that the former WWE star was the best commentator he had the chance to work with:

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1397982550971359235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

After the release of Adnan Virk, many believed that Tom Phillips will be taking over his position on the Raw commentary team but they were left surprised when WWE announced that Jimmy Smith will be filling the spot.

Reports then revealed yesterday that WWE had actually decided to release the former broadcaster quietly and he was no longer with the company.

Tom Phillips joined WWE in 2012 and he worked in various roles during his time in the company including being the lead commentator for shows such as SmackDown, Raw and NXT.

The IIconics On Their Future After WWE Release

Anutosh Bajpai
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The IIconics have not made a decision about their future after their release from WWE but the duo has a couple of interesting destinations in mind.

The former tag team champions recently appeared on Busted Open Radio where they opened up about their time in WWE among other things.

When asked what’s next for the duo, Peyton Royce revealed that they want to move forward as a team because they are more comfortable together:

“We definitely want to stay together. We want to move forward together, just like we said in the first episode of Off Her Chops we’re just most comfortable together. We can play off each other so easily. We don’t even have to talk about what we’re going to do.”

The female star was then questioned about which promotion The IIconics might be interested in joining and Royce discussed what they could bring to the table for both AEW and Impact Wrestling:

“I think it’s tough, For example; AEW. I feel like we could really help their women’s division, though they don’t necessarily have a women’s tag division. But I feel we have that TV experience that we could bring to the division and help build that up.

And then with Impact they have a women’s tag team division, as well as an established Knockout’s division, that I feel we can easily slip into. So it’s like, I feel like we have a lot to offer both of them and, I don’t know.”

Billie Key explained how they are not only wrestlers but personalities and characters as well and they are just trying to figure out which company they would be better with.

The IIconics were released from their WWE contracts on April 15 this year. Their non compete clause with the company expires on July 14 and it would be interesting to see which promotion they end up on after that.

Paige Banned From Twitch For Movie Stream

Anutosh Bajpai
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Saraya Bevis, better known to WWE fans as Paige has apparently been banned by the streaming platform Twitch for a movie stream.

According to some viewers, the former champion was holding a watch party for the movie Dumb & Dumber and her stream got cut halfway through.

Streamers are allowed to hold watch parties for several movies at the Amazon-owned platform but Dumb & Dumber is not part of the list and Paige appears to have gotten a copyright strike for streaming the movie:

https://twitter.com/AnEternalEnigma/status/1398094839028330499

The former champion has been streaming on the platform since last year and she is one of the top wrestling personalities on the platform.

Paige also faced some controversy when WWE decided to take over the Twitch profiles of all their contracted talents last year. The former SmackDown GM was one of the stars who protested the edict and continued streaming.

According to Twitch guidelines, a suspension can last for up to 30 days. Accounts with prior suspension records can be removed from the site indefinitely as well.

This seems to be Paige’s first violation of the Twitch guidelines so it’s likely that the former champion will not face an indefinite suspension and she will be back on the platform soon.

Anthony Ogogo Says He Broke A Rib Training For AEW Double Or Nothing

Michael Reichlin
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Anthony Ogogo faces Cody Rhodes this Sunday at AEW Double or Nothing. This will be the highest profile wrestling match to date for the former Olympic boxer. In addition to general bragging rights, there is also national pride at stake. Ogogo represents the United Kingdom, while Rhodes is fighting for the United States.

During an interview with Metro UK, Ogogo said that he injured himself during training this past week. “I’ve got a broken rib right now,” he revealed.

He quickly acknowledged that he was probably being a little too ‘open and honest’ about his condition.

“My rib’s broken because I did a move in training this week,” he said “I did it wrong, and I broke a rib. I’m now wrestling Cody, the best wrestler in the world, with a broken rib… And that’s real, that’s not me just saying that. My rib is f***ed!’

Ogogo vs. Rhodes

Anthony Ogogo says that Cody Rhodes was instrumental in him joining All Elite Wrestling. Cody courted him to sign with AEW before he ever wrestled a single match. As of this writing, Ogogo’s pro wrestling record stands at only 2-0.

Despite his lack of experience, he feels the pressure is on Cody this Sunday. “I watched him when I was a kid – before I had hairs on my bollocks, I was watching Cody Rhodes on TV and I was a fan of Cody Rhodes. Now, I have lots of hairs on my bollocks and I’m facing Cody at Double or Nothing. So, I’m really happy, the pressure’s on him.”

Visit Metro UK to read their full interview with Anthony Ogogo.

WWE SummerSlam Slated For Allegiant Stadium In Las Vegas

Chris Stephens
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The 34th edition of SummerSlam is reportedly to take place from one of the newest and most state-of-the-art stadiums in the world. Allegiant Stadium cost $1.9 billion to build and opened last July. It is the home of the Las Vegas Raiders and the UNLV Rebels.

According to Andrew Zarian of the Mat Man Podcast, the stadium which sits at 3333 Al Davis Way in Las Vegas will be the home of SummerSlam this year. There is also expected to be a host for the show that has been described as “bizarre” and will fit the theme of the show.

Much like Raymond James Stadium, Allegiant Stadium has a pirate-like atmosphere due to being home to the Las Vegas Raiders, though this doesn’t necessarily mean Titus O’Neil and Hulk Hogan will be back dressed up in costume.

Saturday Night SummerSlam?

As of this writing, SummerSlam is currently scheduled to take place on August 22nd, 2021. Manny Pacquiao is scheduled to face Errol Spence Jr. the night before on August 21st, 2021 somewhere in Las Vegas. That fight is rumored to either be taking place in Allegiant Stadium as well or the nearby MGM Grand. WWE’s big event being so close to such a high-profile boxing bout could cause some scheduling issues and/or changes.

Zarian continued to Tweet on the situation. He teased that “SummerSlam won’t be on a day you think it will be on.”

The Twitter account Wrestle Votes is hinting that SummerSlam would be moved to the Saturday night this year. This would put it on the same day as the Manny Pacquiao fight, however.

John Cena at SummerSlam

There is also belief at the moment that WWE has big plans for John Cena’s return. Cena’s recent apology to China for referring to Taiwan as a country was reportedly an issue backstage in WWE with Vince McMahon having sent out an internal email in response. It is not clear what was written in that email, however.

There is the belief that WWE is planning a big main event for SummerSlam. Cena could be involved as WWE looks to pack Allegiant Stadium for the show.

Tom Phillips Released By WWE

Michael Reichlin
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Tom Phillips is the latest person to be let go by WWE. The news was first reported by Sean Ross Sapp for Fightful. We have since confirmed the story independently.

Phillips was with WWE since 2012. During his time with the company, he worked on virtually all of their shows, including NXT, 205 Live, Main Event, SmackDown and Raw. He’s also been on-air for various WWE Network and YouTube programs. More also been involved behind-the-scenes as a producer and served as a Senior Manager of on-air talent.

Adnan Virk replaced Tom Phillips as the lead announcer of Raw the night after WrestleMania 37. That stint lasted just over a month. Earlier this week, Virk was let go from the Raw commentary team. Veteran MMA journalist Jimmy Smith will start in that role this coming Monday.

WWE is in the midst of a major staffing shakeup, both in the office and on camera. WWE’s film, TV and social media divisions saw extensive cuts this week in the Connecticut and Los Angeles offices.

Tom Phillips is unquestionably a very talented broadcaster. At only 32 years old, he’s got a bright future in the world of professional wrestling, if he chooses to stay in the industry. He’s already updated his Twitter handle to reflect his birth name, @TomHannifan.

AEW star Dax Harwood of the FTR tag team had this to say about Tom Phillips’ WWE release. Interestingly, he tells Tom, “I’m sure I’ll see you soon.”

Chris Jericho Praises The Rock’s Wrestling Ability, Rock Responds

Chris Stephens
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Chris Jericho evidently spent part of his evening last night watching some of the Rock’s matches on YouTube. Jericho then took to Twitter to say that the Rock was one of the best ever inside a wrestling ring.

“Going down the @YouTube rabbit hole tonight and one thing is clear….he may be the biggest box office draw in Hollywood today, but my goodness, let’s not ever forget how GREAT @TheRock was in the ring. One of the best ever …” Jericho Tweeted.

This drew a response from The Rock himself, who offered up the following reply to Jericho.

“This means a lot, thank you brother for these words. You’re one of the GOATS and man the fun we had electrifying the millions around the world. What an honor. And I still owe you a receipt for that tobacco spit incident,” Rock Tweeted in response.

Chris Jericho and the Rock faced each other in singles action 9 times throughout their careers. 6 of those matches were for a world title, with the world title changing hands between them in half of those encounters. In total, Jericho leads the all-time singles series between the two with 5 wins to Rock’s 4.

You can view their Twitter interaction here:

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