Home Blog Page 950

WWE NXT Results (5/18): Steel Cage Headliner, Pete Dunne Speaks

Andrew Ravens
-
0

The May 18, 2021 episode of WWE NXT aired live on the USA Network from Orlando, Florida at the Capitol Wrestling Center. 

WWE NXT Results 

  • Toni Storm def. Zoey Stark.
  • Jake Atlas def. Cameron Grimes
  • Killian Dain def. Alexander Wolfe.
  • Legado del Fantasma def. Timothy Thatcher & Tommaso Ciampa
  • Sarray def. Aliyah
  • Hit Row (Top Dolla & Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis)  def. Tony Nese & Ariya Daivari.
  • Bronson Reed def. Johnny Gargano to win North American Title

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

pjimage 2021 05 11T123214.240

Killian Dain vs. Alexander Wolfe in a singles match took place. 

Three weeks ago on NXT, Imperium stablemates Marcel Barthel & Fabian Aichner defeated Drake Maverick & Dain when Aichner & Barthel hit the Euro Bomb on Maverick to get the win

Going into the match, Maverick made it known that he was worried that Dain was going to turn against him and join Imperium, which was teased in the match, but didn’t happen. Wolfe was formerly a member of SAnitY with Dain.

This latest match saw them work a short bout. The finish saw Wolfe try to bring a chair into the match, but Dain speared him for the win. Post-match, Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner attacked Wolfe. 

Pete Dunne Interview

pjimage 2021 05 18T125919.310

Sports writer and radio host Arash Markazi interviewed Pete Dunne. Two weeks ago, Dunne was one of three wrestlers (Kyle O’Reilly and Finn Balor) who interrupted NXT Champion Karrion Kross. 

This is where Dunne said that he’s already proven he can beat Kushida and that’s a title he could win. He said he has history with WALTER and could go after the NXT UK Title. The North American Title with Johnny Gargan is an option, but he’s only been in the ring with him once and he hit him with the Bitter Ending. He said he wants the NXT Title and Karrion Kross has it. 

Dunne doesn’t care about respect from his peers as his work speaks for itself and even if he drops a loss, he changes his opponents forever. He said he doesn’t set goals anymore, but if he wants to do one thing and that’s the NXT Title because he’s already dominated the NXT UK scene, so he wants to dominate the American scene. 

Singles Match

pjimage 2021 05 18T130256.152

Toni Storm vs. Zoey Stark took place in a singles match. 

The bout kicked off the show and was a fun back and forth bout. At one point, Stark kicked out of the Storm Zero, which was a big near fall. In the end, Storm went over with her finisher. 

The last few months have made fans question what WWE is doing with Storm. It appears she is going in the right direction now. 

Also, post-match, Franky Monet appeared on the stage and had a staredown with Storm. It was announced Monet will make her in-ring debut next week. 

https://twitter.com/JJWilliamsWON/status/1394809430512918530

Ted DiBiase Sr. Appearance

pjimage 2021 05 18T125929.820

Ted DiBiase Sr. was booked to appear for another segment with Cameron Grimes. 

The past three weeks have seen segments with “The Million Dollar Man” and Grimes, but this marked the first time the WWE Hall of Famer was in the building. 

DiBiase is involved in a storyline where he’s used his wealth to repeatedly upstage Grimes. Just last week, DiBiase outbid Grimes at an auction to buy a mansion in Orlando, Florida. Of course, Grimes’ character became wealthy after investing in GameStop stock and purchasing Dogecoin earlier this year.

On this episode, Grimes aired a video package of embarrassing moments throughout the career of DiBiase. Grimes then worked a match with Jake Atlas. The finish saw Ted come out to the stage to distract Grimes, who got pinned by Atlas for the win. 

Post-match, Grimes chased Ted out to his limo and Ted mocked him before driving off again. 

Steel Cage Match

pjimage 2021 05 18T125926.097

Bronson Reed got his title shot from NXT North American Champion Johnny Gargano in a steel cage match on this show and rightfully so, WWE saved this for the main event. 

The match was good with Gargano getting the majority of the offense. They did a powerbomb spot off the top rope. At one point, Austin Theory tried to pull Gargano out of the ring only to fail.

Theory closed the door on Reed, but he pushed Theory off the steps. There was a near fall with Theory hitting Reed in the head with the door and Gargano connecting with a spring board DDT. Reed did hit a powerbomb of his own off the top rope. Reed won it with a splash off the top rope. 

Reed defeated Gargano’s The Way stablemate Austin Theory three weeks ago to set up this match. Of course, Reed and Gargano have history as Gargano defeated Reed to retain the title at TakeOver: Stand & Deliver night two last month.

Bronson Reed Wins WWE North American Title

Andrew Ravens
-
0

The ongoing storyline between Bronson Reed and Johnny Gargano for the WWE NXT North American Title continued on this week’s episode of WWE NXT as Gargano defended the title against the rising star. 

It happened inside of a steel cage and took place in the main event. Throughout the match, both stars tried to climb out of the cage only for each star to stop one another. They got about 15 minutes to work. Reed won it with a splash off the top rope. 

This match was set up when Reed defeated Gargano’s The Way stablemate Austin Theory three weeks ago. It marked the second time that the two stars had worked with each other for the strap as Gargano defeated Reed to retain the title at TakeOver: Stand & Deliver night two last month.

The first night of this special saw Reed win a number one contender’s Gauntlet Eliminator match, which set up the title match the following night. 

Just last week, there was an angle shot where Gargano and Theory had attacked Reed backstage. Reed then stated Gargano is a dead man, which led to later in the night, Reed cutting a promo and announced that NXT general manager William Regal had agreed to make the match a steel cage bout. 

More Participants Revealed For Casino Battle Royale At AEW Double Or Nothing

Andrew Ravens
-
0

All Elite Wrestling has announced more participants for the Casino Battle Royale at Double Or Nothing on Sunday, May 30, 2021 in Jacksonville, Florida from Daily’s Place. 

The reveal took place during Tuesday’s episode of AEW Dark. The new names were Powerhouse Hobbs, 10, Evil Uno, Colt Cabana, Matt Hardy, Private Party (Isiah Kassidy & Marq Quen), and Jungle Boy. 

They join Christian Cage and Matt Sydal in the match as the two wrestlers declared last week on Dynamite. The winner will receive a shot at the AEW World Championship.

During Dark, Hardy cut a promo about the Hardy Family Office’s war against the Dark Order and promised to embarrass them then win the Casino Battle Royale for a future title shot.

Jungle Boy also did a promo where he talked about his loss to Darby Allin for the TNT Championship and recalled how he was in the first Casino Battle Royale so now he hopes to win it this time around.

Other top matches booked for the show include AEW Women’s Champion Hikaru Shida vs. Dr. Britt Baker, “The American Dream” Cody Rhodes vs. Anthony Ogogo, and AEW World Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega vs. PAC and Orange Cassidy in a triple threat match. 

The full card will be announced on Wednesday’s Dynamite. 

WWE Raw Ratings Up For WrestleMania Backlash Fallout (5/17)

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Monday’s edition of WWE Raw averaged 1.823 million viewers with a 0.48 rating in the Adults 18-49 demographic. This is mixed from last week’s 1.817 million viewers and the 0.53 rating. 

This week’s episode featured the fallout from the WrestleMania Backlash pay-per-view event. Here’s the hourly viewership breakdown for Monday Night Raw, courtesy of PWTorch:

  • The first hour did 1.790 million viewers 
  • The second hour did 1.932 million viewers
  • The final hour of the show had just 1.748 million viewers 

To compare, last week’s hourly viewership numbers were 1.912 million viewers in the first hour, 1.828 million viewers in the second hour, and the third hour had 1.710 million viewers

This episode featured AJ Styles vs. Elias, Kofi Kingston vs. Randy Orton, Sheamus vs. Ricochet, WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Natalya & Tamina vs. Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler, Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair, Damian Priest vs. John Morrison, and Kofi Kingston vs. WWE Champion Bobby Lashley in a non-title match. 

SmackDown Viewership

The final ratings for Friday’s SmackDown are not in just yet. It drew 2.282 million viewers on FOX the previous week and did 0.46 rating. What we do know is the episode drew an average of 1.800 million viewers in the overnight ratings, down from the previous week that did 2.080  million viewers.

Ricochet Receives Fan Backlash After Tweet About Io Shirai

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Ricochet got into some hot water with fans and even went viral on Twitter after sharing a message about former NXT Women’s Champion Io Shirai while in an exchange with a fan. 

It all started when he responded to a tweet sent out by WWE that asked fans to name the best high-flyer in the company right now. This led to the fan responding and later named Shirai. 

Ricochet then wrote back by stating, “I’m not saying she’s not amazing. She 100% is. But I can do EVERYTHING she can, probably even better. She can’t do what I am capable of, maybe not even half.”

View post on imgur.com

The WWE star deleted the tweet after getting some heated responses from fans. 

For the majority of this year, Ricochet has worked WWE Main Event matches. He started appearing back on main WWE programming when he dropped a non-title loss to WWE United States Champion Sheamus on Sunday’s WrestleMania Backlash Kickoff pre-show then followed up with another loss to Sheamus on Monday’s Raw. 

On the flip side, Shirai has only been seen once on NXT TV for an interview segment since dropping the NXT Women’s Title to Raquel González at NXT TakeOver: Stand and Deliver in April. 

WWE Pauses Plans To Push Raw Star

Andrew Ravens
-
0

It appeared WWE had plans in place to push Humberto Carrillo once again on Monday Night Raw. 

However, whatever plans the company did have, which looked to be with United States Champion Sheamus, are on hold for now. Pwinsider.com reports the reason Carrillo wasn’t used on Monday’s episode of Raw was simply that Vince McMahon decided to focus on Ricochet for now.

Ricochet answered the open challenge issued by Sheamus at Sunday’s WrestleMania Backlash pre-show. They also worked a match on Raw. 

PWInsider wrote, “For those who asked why there was no update on Humberto Carrillo, the decision was made to focus on the Ricochet stuff. Much like Mansoor being forgotten a week after he debuted, the decision was made to focus on something else.”

Thus, it looks like WWE is going with the long-term feud between Ricochet and Sheamus. 

Carrillo did get hurt last week on Raw when he worked a match with Sheamus as Carrillo landed hard on the floor and had trouble getting up. As a result, WWE stopped the match and declared Sheamus as the winner.

With anything in WWE, plans change all of the time and this is a perfect example of that. 

Shinsuke Nakamura Still Waiting For His Moment

Alex Laybourne
-
0

Shinsuke Nakamura is currently entering into a rivalry with King Corbin. The king of strong style is intent on proving that he is the only king in WWE these days. For those wrestling fans that followed Nakamura before he made his way over to America, they know that the Japanese star has a lot more to offer than WWE creative have let him show.

In a recent talk with Renee Young on her Oral Sessions podcast, Shinsuke Nakamura opened up about the struggles he still faces in the wrestling business.

“I’m still struggling in wrestling. Coming to the US and coming to WWE is challenging. I came to challenge myself. That’s why I’m here. I’m waiting to find my timing and my moment. I don’t pitch ideas to [Vince McMahon] a lot. We talk after the match a little or before the match if he has an idea for my promo. I need to get used to [not talking to Vince].” Nakamura told his former colleague.

There is something in his words that speak of possible frustration at things. Nakamura has held four different championships since arriving in America. Starting with the NXT title before he moved up to the main roster.

Shinsuke Nakamura has definitely been wrestling a different sort of game since his arrival, but his recent exchanges with King Corbin definitely hint at a more aggressive Nakamura. Perhaps a quest to re-discover the true King of Strong Style is exactly what he needs to get his career back to where he wants it to be. While there is a lot of talk right now about John Cena making his return, but perhaps the time is now for another superstar altogether.

Tony Khan Believes That Wrestling Is “Hotter Than Ever”

Jake Skudder
-
0

AEW President Tony Khan recently appeared (again) on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio. Khan discussed a number of topics during his time on the show, including the general landscape of pro wrestling.

“Wrestling is hotter than ever,” Khan claimed on the podcast, which is a pretty bold claim to make. “This past week, to have three different wrestling shows ranked number one on their night? And to have AEW be a part of it? It’s huge.”

“And it’s a great time for wrestling” Tony Khan added. “I feel like we were all there, part of the peak era of fandom, and now it’s a splintered audience. Things are very fragmented, it’s hard to get as many people to watch something as there used to be.”

Tony Khan on Modern Pro Wrestling

“But I believe that, and I see it first hand with the NFL and the great numbers we do, if you deliver a quality, compelling product consistently, people are going to show up and watch it” Tony Khan continued.

“And that’s why we built audience and we’re up year over year. It’s a great time to come and join AEW as a fan” Khan concluded.

Again, it’s interesting for Khan to make such a bold claim when you look at the general lay of the land in pro wrestling 2021. Whilst AEW is doing extremely well in the ratings; compared to the late 90’s and early 2000’s and the Monday Night Wars there’s a gulf in the popularity and mainstream appeal of pro wrestling.

Renee Paquette On CM Punk Wrestling Again: “Never Say Never”

Jake Skudder
-
0

Former WWE personality and host of WWE Backstage Renee Paquette recently appeared on WrestlingINC Daily. Paquette discussed a number of topics during her time on podcast, including her former Backstage colleague, CM Punk.

Paquette and others have answered the question of CM Punk returning to pro wrestling a number of topics over the past few years. When Punk joined Backstage these questions ramped up, but now even with the hype having died down Paquette feels there’s always a chance that CM Punk will return to pro wrestling.

“I think it’s just like anything else with WWE, you just never say never,” Renee began on the podcast. “We’ve seen people come back who none of us ever thought would return. I think Punk is somebody who falls under that category. End of the day, the guy is a wrestler. That’s who he is. I feel like in some capacity, I hope we get to see Punk wrestle someone someday.”

Renee Paquette on CM Punk

“At this point, I don’t think anyone cares where it is” Paquette added, alluding to the other options that Punk has available if he were to return, such as AEW, where her husband Jon Moxley of course works. “Everyone just wants to see him get back out there. Tick Tock, brother. Let’s go. There’s always going to be rumblings.”

“The fact is people just want to see him back wrestling” Renee stated. “And whatever way that happens, if it ever does, I think people would freak. I’ll freak.”

There had been rumors in the past surrounding CM Punk and a potential run in AEW. Punk himself said a few years ago that Cody Rhodes himself had ‘texted an offer’ to the Straight Edge Superstar; something that Punk wasn’t exactly enamoured with.

Almost an age old question at this point, but do you want to see CM Punk return to WWE or AEW? Maybe even ROH or NJPW? Let us know in the comments

Kenny Omega vs. Adrande Official For AAA TripleMania XXIX

Chris Stephens
-
0

AAA has confirmed the date, venue, fan capacity and some matches for TripleMania this year. The promotion held a press conference today to announce the news. The media event was not televised but LuchaBlog has been providing updates through Twitter.

The event has been confirmed for Saturday, August 14th, 2021. A limited number of fans will be permitted to attend. Some matches have been made official for the event as well.

AAA Mega Champion/Impact World Champion/AEW World Champion Kenny Omega will be on the show. He’ll defend the AAA Mega title against Andrade. This comes after Andrade issued a challenge to Omega at Rey de Reyes. Callis and Omega cut a promo that was played at today’s press conference.

“This one, the belt that recommends Lucha Libre, which you so proudly represent, it’s always going to be around my waist,” Omega said. “And you should be thankful because not only do I represent Lucha Libre, I represent all pro-wrestling.”

A Reina de Reinas vs Knockouts Championship match will take place when Faby Apache takes on Deonna Purrazzo. Apache won the vacant title at Rey de Reyes and was then challenged by Purrazzo who was on commentary for the match. Purrazzo also put Apache in an arm-bar at Rey de Reyes.

Rey Escorpión will also face Psycho Clown in a mask vs hair match. They ended up getting in a brawl during the press conference.

Bianca Belair and Bayley Rumored for a Hair vs Hair Match

Alex Laybourne
-
0

It has been seven years since WWE had their last hair vs hair match. Back then Enzo Amore beat Sylvester Lefort on NXT.  According to Bryan Alvarez, WWE have big plans for Bayley and Bianca Belair to culminate their feud with just this match.

The rivalry between Bayley and Belair has been well managed so far. Belair’s recent victory at Backlash came courtesy of her lengthy lockes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO-RBynrgHI/

Talking on the Wrestling Observer, Bryan Alvarez claimed that everything WWE have done with this feud until this point leans towards a Luchas de Apuestas match between the pair.

The Bayley-Belair Feud Could be the Story of the Year

It is highly unlikely that Belair would be willing to shave her head. After all, her long hair is a major part of her current character. For Bayley however, shaving her head would cement her as one of the baddest heels on the roster. Discussing the topic back in February, Belair claimed that she would certainly be up for the challenge.

“People bring it up all the time and they ask do I ever think I’ll ever be a part of that. I think it’s pretty much inevitable because I mean, so much of who I am is my braid. I mean, she even has a name. Her name is Destiny, and it makes sense, right? So, and I think that it’s really fun to have feuds sometimes that aren’t always a part of the title picture and if I have a hair versus hair match… I ain’t gonna say it’s bigger than a title.

A title is pretty big, you know? But, there will be a lot at stake and I think a lot of people could get very invested in it. I don’t wanna lose my braid, I don’t want to lose my hair. I think it would be great. I’d be down for it,” Belair told ESPN Cheap Heat.

Since transitioning into a heel persona Bayley has moved from strength to strength and is arguably one of the more entertaining people on the roster.

It has been well documented that WWE had plans for a hair vs hair match back in 2020. The feud between Mady Rose and Sonya Deville was supposed to end that way. However, Deville’s stalker trial meant she could not shave her head. The plan was shelved, but it is clearly looking likely that it has been dusted off once more.

Drew McIntyre Gives Himself an Interesting New Nickname

Alex Laybourne
-
0

Drew McIntyre is a man who is loving life right now. He has been the man in WWE throughout the pandemic era. A feat alone that will ensure his name is written into the history books. His story is very much one of the ugly duckling.

Despite losing the WWE title at Wrestlemania, and his subsequent rematches, the big man is still very much the cream of the WWE crop. It’s looking likely that Drew McIntyre will be stepping back from the title race, even if just for a bit. However, that has not done anything to deflate the Scottish superstar.

This past week McIntyre helped Kofi Kingston pick up a non-title win against Bobby Lashley, and in the resulting revelry created not one, but two new nicknames. One of which is certainly a tongue in cheek name, that has the WWE universe in stitches.

https://twitter.com/DMcIntyreWWE/status/1394509082275553280

While there is no chance of Drew McIntyre being called to the ring with this new moniker, there is something refreshing about seeing McIntyre simply having a bit of fun. His is a man who struggled for so long and tasted the real lows of professional wrestling. Nobody on the roster will begrudge him enjoying the spotlight while he has it.

As for his Drew Day Rocks comment, we can only hope that this becomes a thing, just for a few weeks, because that could be the light-hearted relief everybody needs as we head into the mid-point of the wrestling calendar.

Don Kernodle Has Passed Away

Chris Stephens
-
0

Wrestling legend Don Kernodle has passed away. He was 71 years old. He had reportedly been dealing with health issues prior to his passing.

Kernodle won the NWA World Tag Titles on 3 occasions with 3 different partners. Sgt Slaughter and Kernodle won the belts in September of 1982. He then won the titles along with “Cowboy” Bob Orton in January of 1984.

Kernodle would later win the belts with Ivan Koloff in May of 1984. He also twice held the NWA 6-man titles along with Ivan and Nikita Koloff. Kernodle twice held the Mid-Atlantic tag titles with Jim Nelson. He was recently inducted into the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.

SEScoops extends our condolences to the family and friends of Don Kernodle.

Wrestling World Reacts

Numerous people from within the wrestling industry have been posting online in tribute to Kernodle.

“Sorry to hear of the passing of Don Kernodle He was 1 hell of a wrestler loved all his Mid Atlantic stuff former 3 time NWA tag champ Always enjoyed talking w/him every time I saw him,” Tweeted Tommy Dreamer.

“Another day filled with sad news as we learn of the passing of Don Kernodle at the age of 71. We send out our condolences to his friends, fans and family, thank you for the memories Sir. R.I.P. Don,” Tweeted the Cauliflower Alley Club.

https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1394659356684267527

Eddie Edwards Possibly To Miss Big Angle Due To Appendicitis

Chris Stephens
-
0

Eddie Edwards picked up the win for his team on Saturday night at Under Siege. Edwards was teaming with David Finlay & Juice Robinson and defeated Kenny Omega, Doc Gallows, and Karl Anderson. Many who watched the show noted that it seemed as though the match could be leading to a potential Eddie Edwards vs Kenny Omega title bout.

According to a report from Wrestling Observer Radio, however, Edwards could be forced to miss time with what appears to be appendicitis.

“I’d heard appendicitis, kind of checked, and basically what I was told is it looks like appendicitis, which is not a good thing at all,” said Dave Meltzer. “But I don’t have details as far as if he’s having his appendix out right now or what is the situation but that probably went down yesterday or today.”

Moose won the #1 Contendership 6-way scramble at Under Siege. He earned a shot at Kenny Omega and the Impact World title but with Edwards picking up the win for his team against the Elite on the show as well, it seems as though Edwards could be being groomed for a shot against Omega either before or after Moose gets his.

“It looked like Eddie Edwards was the one being groomed for the next shot (against Omega),” Meltzer continued. “So, this could very well affect that.”

NJPW COVID-19 Outbreak Update

Chris Stephens
-
0

New Japan Pro Wrestling canceled its planned Wrestle Grand Slam events on May 15th and 29th shortly after it was revealed that multiple wrestlers on its roster had tested positive for COVID-19. The promotion revealed that 2 wrestlers initially tested positive for the virus following protocols after Wrestling Dontaku Night 2. An additional 7 wrestlers were later confirmed to have tested positive as well.

NJPW has since announced a return to live events beginning next week. The big Wrestle Grand Slam show from the Tokyo Dome is still postponed, however.

According to a report from Wrestling Observer Radio, both David Finlay & Jay White have tested positive for the virus. There have also been some scheduling and quarantining issues that have come out of the recently canceled events.

“(The foreign wrestlers) were all going to go home because they were shut down,” said Dave Meltzer. “Well now, they are coming back on the 25th, which is 8 days from now. So a couple of days ago, they were all going to go home, and there’s a 2-week quarantine coming back. So now it makes no sense for people to go home but some people did.”

“(Juice) Robinson, (David) Finlay, and Jay White all went to the airport together to go home. Finlay and Jay White both tested positive for COVID-19 so they could not board the plane,” Meltzer continued.

Robinson confirmed that he actually tested positive for the virus earlier this year. No matches have been announced as of yet for NJPW’s shows next week.

Kurt Angle Reveals the Real Reason Booker T and Batista Came to Blows

Alex Laybourne
-
0

Backstage arguments are common in any wrestling organization. Talking on his Kurt Angle Show podcast, Angle recently discussed one such incident during his time with WWE. The argument in question is quite well known and happened back in 2006.

Smackdown stars Batista and Booker T got into a brawl behind the scenes and according to Kurt Angle, the whole thing was one big misunderstanding.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO_BlA3nz4a/

Batista made a comment that Booker T overhead. Tempers flared, as they are want to do in a business such as professional wrestling. The pair went at it, and the rest is news telling history.

“I don’t think it was anything personal against Booker T or anyone else on SmackDown. Batista said it and Booker confronted him and now the situation got hotter. Now Booker confronts Batista, makes Batista look like an idiot, Batista confronts Booker and now they end in a fight competition. The fight occurred, I got there afterwards, I saw Booker T had a black eye and Batista was a little banged up and I just thought it was a big misunderstanding. I know they apologized afterwards and made up and did whatever they had to do to move on, they just misunderstood each other about the whole situation. It was a shame; it didn’t have to happen.” Angle said.

In an environment such as professional wrestling, tempers are going to run hot at times. Incidents such as this can serve as a lesson to current roster stars. It’s important to get the full context of something before charging into a confrontation.

Bayley Has a Lot of Respect for Dr Britt Baker D.M.D

Alex Laybourne
-
0

WWE superstar Bayley opened up in a recent NY Post interview and lauded a current AEW wrestler with praise. There is a history of good blood between the pair, who have both labelled themselves as role models of their respective organization.

This point sparked a running social media exchange between the pair, but at the end of the day, Bayley was happy for the doctor to keep using the moniker that she first picked up.

When asked in the interview about there being room for more than one wrestling role model, Bayley simple shook her head at the interviewer.

However, she turned it around when further pushed on the subject.

Q: You and (AEW’s role model) Britt Baker have had a little fun back and forth on social media. Does that benefit everybody because it gets fans engaged talking about the two of you?

A: I love Britt. She’s awesome and everything she’s doing is really cool, so I can’t even hate on her. I’ve heard a podcast where she talked about it and there’s no hard feelings, there’s no disrespect and I only want the best for her because as a role model that’s how you’re supposed to react to these type of things. So, go get ’em Britt Baker.

The chance of the pair having a legitimate in-ring feud is non-existent at this point in time. However, a passive-aggressive war of words on social media is fun to watch unfold. A fight between the two, with role model status on the line, would certainly make for an interesting match.

Hikaru Shida to Defend AEW Title Against Rebel on Dynamite

Alex Laybourne
-
0

A big match has been announced for AEW Dynamite this week. Reigning champion Hikaru Shida is set to go one-on-one with Rebel (not Reba). The match is the latest step in the long-running feud between Dr Britt Baker and the AEW champion.

The feud dates back to when Baker suffered a broken nose at the hands of the Japanese champion in 2020. Since then, Baker has clawed her way up the rankings, developing a strong heel character in the process. The title match between Hikaru Shida and Rebel is not really one that is going to have fans chomping at the bit to see, but the expectation of what will flare up either during or after will certainly set the tone ahead of Shida’s Double or Nothing clash with the good doctor.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CO_45s1NLvl/

Hikaru Shida is the longest-reigning champion in AEW and has held the belt for 359 days. The stage is set for Dr Britt Baker to win the crown at Double or Nothing. Expect to see a beatdown on Dynamite to help further establish Baker’s heel persona. There is also every chance that this match will result in a stipulation being set for the Double of Nothing clash.

Many fans would argue Rebel has earned a match against the champ. If not just for putting up with everything she does from the good doctor. While she has been used sparingly in the ring in AEW, Rebel has a wrestling pedigree and could pose an interesting challenge for the current champ.

Even if the result is already evident, it should be a good match. This has been a well-played feud and surely won’t be the last time this group face off.

WWE RAW Results (5/17): Bobby Lashley Issues Open Challenge, Lumberjack Match

Robert Lentini
-
0

WWE RAW aired live from the ThunderDome at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. It was the first episode of RAW following WWE WrestleMania Backlash. Bobby Lashley issued an open challenge and it was accepted in the main event of the show.

RAW Results (5/17)

  1. AJ Styles def. Elias via DQ
  2. Angel Garza def. Drew Gulak
  3. Kofi Kingston def. Randy Orton
  4. Natalya & Tamina def. Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler to retain the Women’s Tag Team Championships
  5. Sheamus def. Ricochet
  6. Asuka def. Charlotte
  7. Damian Priest def. John Morrison in a Lumberjack match
  8. Kofi Kingston def. Bobby Lashley

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

McIntyre Interrupted Lashley

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley came to the ring with a bunch of women. MVP said Lashley’s knuckles are swollen from pounding the faces of Braun Strowman and Drew McIntyre last night at WrestleMania Backlash. Lashley said he was supposed to have the night off but issued an open challenge to anyone that wants it.

Drew McIntyre came to the ring and accepted the challenge. MVP said Drew interrupted and the open challenge was for anyone except Braun Strowman and McIntyre. MVP told McIntyre to get to the back of the line and then Lashley & Drew traded punches. McIntyre knocked Lashley out of the ring to end the segment.

AJ Styles def. Elias

AJ Styles squared off against Elias in the first match of this week’s RAW. Styles controlled the action early and connected with a Dropkick. AJ went for a Suplex but Elias countered into one of his own. Elias launched Styles into the ring post and followed it up with a Dropkick that knocked AJ out of the ring.

When RAW returned from a break, Elias connected with a Spinebuster and went for the cover but AJ kicked out at two. Elias applied a Headlock but Styles escaped with a Pele Kick. Jaxson Ryker tripped AJ Styles up and the referee called for the bell.

After the match, Omos chased Jaxson Ryker backstage as Elias beat Styles down. Elias slammed AJ into the steel steps and then retreated once Omos came back to the ring.

The Women’s Tag Team Champions Joined Alexa’s Playground

Women’s Tag Team Champions Natalya and Tamina joined Alexa Bliss on Alexa’s Playground this week. Natalya and Tamina immediately wanted to get out of there but Alexa said she hasn’t gotten to ask the tough questions. Bliss then asked their favorite color and Natalya answered pink, Tamina said black and blue. Tamina added that Bliss’ face will be black and blue if she tries anything weird.

Alexa told Tamina and Natalya that they were lucky because Lilly likes them. Bliss added that Lilly was a fan of them beating up Reginald last week. Snuka vowed to beat him up again if he gets involved tonight. Alexa Bliss then went on a rant about Lilly collecting body parts of dead bugs as the Women’s Tag Team Champions walked out of the room. Bliss wished them luck and said Lilly will be watching.

Angel Garza def. Drew Gulak

Angel Garza faced Drew Gulak once again tonight on RAW. Gulak leveled Angel with a Dropkick and locked in the Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring. Garza escaped and connected with a Clothesline. Garza followed it up with a Suplex and a Dropkick. Garza hit a Backbreaker and then the Wing Clipper for the pinfall victory. Garza shoved a rose down Gulak’s throat after the match.

Kofi Kingston Pinned Randy Orton

Riddle wanted Randy Orton to apologize to New Day for attacking them last week. Orton said he was not sorry and Kofi Kingston told Riddle that he will eventually be on the receiving end of an RKO as well. Kofi challenged Orton to a match and Orton accepted.

Kingston and Orton collided in the ring to start off the action and Randy rolled out of the ring to regroup. Back in the ring, Kingston connected with an Arm Drag for a two count. Orton battled back and controlled the next few minutes of the match.

Kofi hit a Dropkick and tried to get in some offense but Orton put a stop to his momentum with a big Powerslam. Xavier Woods played the trombone and it distracted Orton. Kingston capitalized and rolled up Orton for the victory.

After the match, Riddle held Orton back as he wanted to attack Kingston. Riddle then shoved Xavier Woods down to the canvas and then Kofi held Woods back as he tried to attack Riddle.

Asuka def. Charlotte

Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce told Charlotte Flair that she can have a shot at the RAW Women’s Championship if she defeats Asuka tonight. RAW Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley interrupted and said that she wants new competition because Charlotte is yesterday’s news. Charlotte told Ripley that she will take the title away from her before walking away. Ripley added that she will be watching to see if The Queen falls off her throne tonight.

Asuka and Charlotte Flair battled to begin the third hour of RAW. Asuka connected with a Dropkick and then a Hip Attack to start off the action. Asuka hit another Hip Attack and went for the cover but Charlotte was able to kick out at two. RAW Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley interrupted and came down to the entrance ramp as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Flair had Asuka in a Headlock. Asuka escaped and connected with a Neckbreaker. Flair bounced Asuka’s head off the mat a few times but the Empress of Tomorrow battled back. Asuka planted Charlotte with a German Suplex and then a Hip Attack. Asuka followed it up with a Shining Wizard and went for the cover but Charlotte was able to kick out at two.

Asuka hit a Dropkick off the middle turnbuckle for another near fall. Asuka applied a kneebar and then transitioned into a Triangle choke. Charlotte countered into a Boston Crab but Asuka was able to break free. Asuka got Flair in the Asuka Lock but Charlotte reached the ropes to break the hold. Charlotte took control but got distracted with trash talking with Ripley. Charlotte went for the Figure Four but Asuka countered into a small package for the pinfall victory.

Natalya & Tamina Retained

Natalya & Tamina defended their Women’s Tag Team Championships against Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler tonight on RAW. Nia dominated to begin the match and isolated Natalya in the corner. Shayna tagged in and unloaded a knee to the face for a near fall. Natalya connected with a Clothesline and tagged in Tamina.

Tamina beat Nia down until Shayna tagged back in. Baszler went for the Kirifuda Clutch but was distracted when Alexa Bliss appeared on the stage. Flames popped up from the ring post and it scared Reginald. The Women’s Tag Team Champions capitalized with a Hart Attack on Shayna for the pinfall victory. Natalya & Tamina are still the Women’s Tag Team Champions.

Sheamus Picked Up A Win

Ricochet stole Sheamus’ hat and jacket and the Celtic Warrior was pissed. The United States Champion marched to the ring and demanded that Ricochet return them. Ricochet came to the ring wearing the hat and coat. Sheamus attacked him on the stage and brought him to the ring. Sheamus beat Ricochet down in the corner and then slammed him into the ring post. Sheamus then threw Ricochet over the barricade as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Sheamus was in control and hit 10 Beats of the Bodhran. Ricochet tried to battle back but Sheamus hit the Irish Curse Backbreaker for a two count. Sheamus climbed to the top rope but Ricochet hopped up and connected with an awesome Spanish Fly.

Ricochet hit a Clothesline and followed it up with a standing Shooting Star Press for a near fall. Ricochet went for a Moonsault but Sheamus got his knees up. Sheamus went for a Brogue Kick but Ricochet dodged it. Ricochet connected with a Neckbreaker and then a 450 Splash for a near fall.

Sheamus hit a boot to the face for a two count. Sheamus got pissed off and hit the Brogue Kick for the pinfall victory. After the match, Sheamus grabbed the microphone and said that Lashley should keep his eye on his title because he might answer the open challenge.

Damian Priest Won Another Lumberjack Match

Damian Priest faced John Morrison tonight in a Lumberjack Match. Priest defeated The Miz last night in a zombie Lumberjack match at WWE WrestleMania Backlash.

Priest dominated the action early and beat Morrison down. Morrison sent Damian out of the ring and the lumberjacks attacked him. Morrison tried to join in but the lumberjacks threw him back into the ring. Damian connected with a massive Chokeslam as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Morrison went for an Armbar but Damian escaped. Priest connected with a Superplex that took out all the lumberjacks. Damian followed it up with a Frankensteiner and then Hit the Lights for the pinfall victory.

Kofi Pinned The WWE Champion

Lashley and MVP came down to the ring and asked who is answering the open challenge. New Day’s theme hit and Kofi Kingston accepted the challenge. MVP then said that this is just an open challenge to face the WWE Champion and not a title match.

Kofi attacked Lashley just before the bell rang and got in some strikes. Lashley hit a Spinebuster and went for the win early but Kofi kicked out at two. Lashley lifted Kingston up for a Suplex but Kofi was able to break free. Kofi knocked Lashley out of the ring and leaped onto him as MVP & Woods argued outside the ring.

When RAW returned from a break, Lashley sent Kofi into the ring post and was in control the match. Woods tried to help but got tossed out. Drew McIntyre rushed the ring as MVP was trying to hit Kofi with the cane. McIntyre ripped the cane away and headbutted Lashley but the referee didn’t catch it. Kingston then capitalized with the cover for the victory.

The Miz Injured At WWE WrestleMania Backlash

Andrew Ravens
-
0

The Miz not only apparently got eaten by zombies, but also suffered an injury while working his latest match inside of a WWE ring. 

The former WWE Champion worked a zombie lumberjack match against Damien Priest at Sunday’s (May 16, 2021) WWE WrestleMania Backlash pay-per-view event in Tampa, Florida at Yuengling Center on Peacock. 

Dave Meltzer noted in today’s daily update on F4Wonline.com that Miz suffered a knee injury in the match. As of this writing, there are no other details on the injury such as the exact damage that was done to the knee nor how long he will be out of action. 

The match came under heavy criticism from fans and even Chris Jericho mocked it. The reason that WWE had zombies at ringside for the match was to promote “Army of the Dead” starring former WWE Champion Dave Bautista on Netflix starting this Friday or you can check it out in theaters now. 

Bautista did the narration for the opening video package of the show and WWE heavily promoted the film throughout the show. The former WWE star did respond to a fan noting that he didn’t book the match. 

Jon Moxley Autobiography To Be Released This Fall

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Jon Moxley is preparing to tell his story via a new book that will give fans an insight into his life and career. Fans can now pre-order his upcoming autobiography, MOX, which will be released on November 2nd.

Pre-order from Amazon:

Jon Moxley Book Description

The description reads like the following: 

“A vivid trip through the mind of the top professional wrestler in the business—a nobody from nowhere who achieved his ambitions and walked away with the gold and the girl of his dreams.

Ride alongside Jon Moxley as he retraces some of the highways traveled on his remarkable journey. Revel in the never-before-told stories about his early life in Cincinnati, Ohio; the gritty independent wrestling scene where he cut his teeth; the complicated corporate landscape of the WWE where he bucked against authority; and the rebellious upstart AEW, where he won the championship in 2020 and was finally free to achieve the vision of the wrestler he’d always wanted to be.

With plenty of pitstops and revelatory insights, including grizzly ultraviolent encounters, crazy characters who became lifelong friends, and his unforgettable matches in Japan, MOX is the riveting account of the life of a brawler. It is a tale written in blood and soaked in debauchery, with a good dose of wisdom accumulated along the way.

More than a backstage pass into the arena, MOX is a ticket into the ring. Once inside, you’ll never look at pro wrestling the same again.”

Mox

Moxley made a name for himself on the independent wrestling scene before going to WWE where he became a top star as Dean Ambrose when he was paired with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins in The Shield. He later branched off to being a singles star where he would become the WWE Champion. In 2019, Moxley left WWE to join AEW and also became a top star for the promotion. 

Moxley will team with Eddie Kingston to take on (Anthony Bowens & Max Caster) this Wednesday night on AEW Dynamite.

WWE Working On New Raw & SmackDown Entrance Sets

Andrew Ravens
-
0

With WWE expected to go on the road this summer, it looks like WWE is planning to reset the look of their weekly television shows – Raw and SmackDown. 

Andrew Zarian of the Mat Men Podcast noted today that WWE is working on new stage sets for the shows. Zarian first reported the day before WWE and the USA Network confirmed NXT’s move to Tuesday nights last month that the announcement was coming as well as WWE resuming touring in the middle of July. 

Over the years, WWE has changed the stages for their shows. WWE confirmed during Sunday’s WrestleMania Backlash pay-per-view event that the Hell in a Cell show, which historically takes place in October, will now go down in June. 

The Money in the Bank event will be the first pay-per-view back on a full touring schedule. Previously, the idea was for WWE to resume touring in August with SummerSlam being the start of having fans in attendance on a weekly basis going forward. 

The decision to take shows back on the road came shortly after All Elite Wrestling announced they would start running shows outside of Jacksonville, Florida in July. WWE still has a lease with the Yuengling Center through August. 

AEW Double Or Nothing Tickets Are Moving Fast

Andrew Ravens
-
0

On Monday, AEW released tickets for the Double Or Nothing pay-per-view event. The first batch of tickets sold out quickly then the promotion released a few hundred tickets. 

As of this afternoon, there were two tickets left in the lower area, but the floor and ringside seats are all sold while the upper sections still have several hundred seats left. Those tickets will likely sell out as the price points range from $49 to $85.

This event will be held at full capacity, which is a little over 5,000 seats. AEW will hold a house show the Friday before this pay-per-view event and there are still hundreds of seats left. 

AEW will be returning to touring this July with Dynamite events. So far three dates in Miami and Texas have been announced. 

don tickets

The AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view event will take place on Sunday, May 30, 2021 in Jacksonville, Florida at Daily’s Place. Here is the updated card: 

  • AEW World Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega vs. PAC and Orange Cassidy
  • AEW Women’s Champion Hikaru Shida vs. Dr. Britt Baker
  • “The American Dream” Cody Rhodes vs. Anthony Ogogo
  • Adam Page vs. FTW Champion Brian Cage
  • Casino Battle Royale: Competitions announced thus far include Christain Cage and Matt Sydal

Kip Sabian Undergoes Surgery

Andrew Ravens
-
0

Kip Sabian has undergone surgery and it was successful. 

Since September 2020, Sabian and Penelope Ford have been paired with Miro as the former WWE star was brought in as Sabian’s “best man”. 

He and Miro lost to Chuck Taylor and Orange Cassidy a few weeks ago on Dynamite, but then Sabian was attacked by Miro in a backstage segment to write Sabian off television. In this match, Kris Statlander and Trent made their returns from being sidelined with injuries. 

Sabian shared the news of the surgery in a post on Twitter. He added that it is time for him to rebuild. There’s no word yet on the exact injury he needed surgery to fix nor how long he will be out of action for, but the injury angle did feature Miro going after his arm. We wish him a speedy recovery. 

Last week on Dynamite, Miro defeated Darby Allin to become TNT Champion. After the match, Lance Archer came out with his manager Jake Roberts to confront the newly crowned champion. 

As it stands right now, All Elite Wrestling has yet to confirm when the match between Archer and Miro could take place, but it could be at the Double Or Nothing pay-per-view that is scheduled for May 30th. 

Lanny Poffo Shares His Thoughts On Macho Man A&E Documentary

Chris Stephens
-
0

The recent A&E documentary on the life and career of “Macho Man” Randy Savage has drawn polarizing reactions. Some fans feel the episode focused too much on the negative aspects of Savage’s life.

Macho Man’s brother, Lanny Poffo, recently penned a column for Pro Wrestling Stories regarding his thoughts on the documentary.

“75% of the A&E Biography episode on Randy Savage was great, 20% was lousy, and 5% was horrible,” Poffo says. “The people responsible for the 5% are Stephanie Bellars (Gorgeous George, Frankenstein, whatever) and Bubba The Love Sponge.”

He also took aim at wrestlers making claims about Savage based on gossip or rumors.

“Wrestlers love to make profound observations that they have overheard,” Poffo writes. “Contrary to popular belief, my brother Randy Savage never locked Elizabeth in any closet in the dressing room.”

“Nobody would know if the door was locked or unlocked because nobody had the guts to open or try to close the door. And now that Randy has been gone over ten years, everybody seems to have the balls now, but they didn’t then.”

Jerry Lawler’s Involvement

Poffo made a point of noting that Jerry Lawler was not in WWE at the same time as Savage and Elizabeth, and despite his comments in the documentary, would not have direct knowledge of certain things.

“Jerry Lawler, who spoke of my brother Randy’s marriage to Liz in the A&E Biography episode, wasn’t even in the WWE when Elizabeth was there.”

Poffo would continue to say, however, that his brother liked Lawler, considered him very smart, and a good worker.

Bubba The Love Sponge

Many fans were surprised to see Bubba the Love Sponge during the episode. Poffo was also confused as to why the radio host was interviewed.

“Bubba the Love Sponge — when was the last time a woman ever made love to him and meant it?” Poffo said. “It was in poor taste to even put him out there.”

“Roddy Piper and Stone Cold Steve Austin were glorified in these A&E episodes while Randy got vilified,” Poffo continued.

Gorgeous George’s Claims

Poffo also said he does not believe Gorgeous George’s claims that Savage took ecstasy with her.

“In the episode, Stephanie said that she and Randy took ecstasy. I don’t believe my brother ever did any of the stuff she mentioned. Maybe he did, maybe he didn’t, but it was totally inappropriate for her to say those things.”

He also corrected George’s claim that Savage took steroids, noting that he used Human Growth Hormone during this time.

“No, it wasn’t steroids because that was illegal at the time. It was human growth hormones,” Poffo continued. “That’s how Randy got massively large for the movie Spider-Man.”

“I notice she keeps going to wrestling reunions and tries to sell merchandise of her and the Macho Man in photographs together. The people that buy them, I don’t think they’re buying them to see her,” Poffo continued to say about George.

Eric Bischoff’s Involvement

Poffo was much more complimentary to Eric Bischoff in his article.

“Randy liked Eric Bischoff and his family. I never heard anything bad about Eric from Randy, although I’ve heard a lot of bad from other wrestlers about Eric.”

Bischoff has expressed regret for appearing in the documentary on Savage.

“I’m embarrassed that I was a part of that as well,” Bischoff said on his 83 Weeks Podcast. “So people understand and know, both me [and my wife] shot those segments while I was still working for WWE and both of us were still living in Stamford a year and a half ago. I’ve been involved in so many WWE projects, and I hope to continue to be involved.”

Randy Did Not Marry His High School Sweetheart

Poffo also cleared up the commonly held belief that Randy’s wife Lynn was an old high school sweetheart.

“This was false. Randy couldn’t have graduated high school in Downers Grove, Illinois, and have a sweetheart from a suburb of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Even the Macho Man can’t pull that off!”

The two actually met when Randy was playing minor league baseball and Lynn was at college. They would then rekindle their relationship later in life.

Positives Left Out

Poffo also lamented that numerous positive aspects regarding Randy’s life were left out of the documentary.

“How come they didn’t mention one thing about Randy’s activity with the Special Olympics, Make-a-Wish, Children’s Cancer, Jerry Lewis’s Telethon, March of Dimes, underprivileged children, and everything else he did? That’s not newsworthy? None of that matters? Do you want to just dig for the dirt?”

1...949950951...3,099Page 950 of 3,099