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Backstage Reaction To WWE Selling Network Streaming Rights To NBCU

Andrew Ravens
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News broke on Monday that WWE and NBCU had reached a streaming rights deal to the WWE Network in the United States that will see all WWE programming – PPV events, archives, and new series – move to the Peacock service come March 18th. 

Fightful Select has some notes on the backstage reaction to the news. One WWE star said they hadn’t heard of the news before it broke and said the company’s profit would be massive. The first impressions were the additional eyes on the product with this new deal. 

Another wrestler stated they didn’t care where the shows aired, but would if it affected their pay. There is no negativity among those in WWE but did consider it a big move for the company.

Talks about such a move to a different streaming service have been ongoing since last January. Fightful notes they were not able to confirm that one of the companies was Peacock at the time. ESPN had been one of the players in these talks. 

Several people within the company said they actually expected a move much sooner than this, but understood it was easier said than done from a negotiating standpoint.

This topic was also discussed by Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Live this afternoon.

It was also reported that the move to Peacock caught the WWE Network employees off-guard and word is that WWE Network employees did not know about the actual move to Peacock as of one week ago.

ESPN To Stop Airing WWE Content After Peacock Deal

Andrew Ravens
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ESPN is not thrilled about WWE inking a streaming rights deal with NBCU so they’ve made the decision to stop airing all WWE content.

This topic was discussed by Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Live this afternoon. The deal will see all WWE programming that had been on the WWE Network in the United States move to NBCU’s Peacock streaming service this March. 

It was stated that speculation about how NBCU trying to acquire SmackDown would be justified now that NBCU has signed the WWE Network for Peacock. Of course, NBCU owns the USA Network, the home of Raw, and previously had the rights to SmackDown before WWE inked a big-money deal with FOX. 

It was noted that the idea of NBCU trying to get back the rights to Smackdown wouldn’t be far-fetched or even the possibility of NBCU trying to buy WWE due to them already paying TV rights to Raw and now with the WWE Network programming. 

Once Alvarez remarked that this new NBCU – WWE deal for Peacock is a good sign that Disney, the parent company of ESPN, not trying to negotiate a sale of WWE right now, Meltzer indicated there are issues between WWE and ESPN. 

The belief is ESPN was a significant part of the WWE Network talks before WWE decided to ink a deal with NBCU. Over the years, there have been rumors of Disney being interested in buying WWE. ESPN found out three weeks ago that they were not getting the WWE Network deal.

Meltzer added that ESPN has “pretty much shut down” any WWE coverage and won’t air any WWE content on their networks going forward. 

Last February it was rumored WWE and ESPN had talked about potentially moving pay-per-view events to the ESPN+ platform. The COVID-19 pandemic shut down that.

Bad Bunny To Perform “Booker T” At Sunday’s WWE Royal Rumble PPV

Michael Reichlin
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Multi-platinum recording artist Bad Bunny will perform the song “Booker T” live this Sunday at the WWE Royal Rumble. The news was first reported by Billboard.

This will be the first live performance of Booker T off the album, El Último Tour Del Mundo.

“Performing at the Royal Rumble is a childhood dream come true,” said Bad Bunny. “I have been a lifelong fan of WWE and I am excited to take the stage and entertain fans around the world.”

Neil Lawi, WWE Music Group’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, says they are thrilled to provide Bad Bunny with this global platform.

“Bad Bunny is at the top of the music industry, and a pop culture icon with strong ties to WWE and our fans around the world,” said Lawi. “We are thrilled to provide a global platform for his first-ever live performance of ‘Booker T’ as we kick off the road to WrestleMania.”

WWE Hall of Famer Booker T stars in the music video named after him. You can check that out here:

For more information on Bad Bunny’s Royal Rumble performance, visit WWE.com.

Triple H On Brock Lesnar’s WWE Future, Reigns vs. Rock Dream Match

Michael Reichlin
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Triple H spoke with the Hindustan Times this week to promote WWE Superstar Spectacle. During the discussion, The Game spoke Brock Lesnar’s WWE future, a potential Roman Reigns vs. The Rock ‘dream match’ and more.

Triple H recently returned to the ring on an episode of WWE Raw. This has prompted questions about his status for April’s WrestleMania 37 pay-per-view. Triple H gave the famous “never say never in WWE” reply.

WWE Champion Drew McIntyre was recently diagnosed with Covid-19. McIntyre’s absence resulted in him being called upon to lace up his boots on short notice. He says, “you hate to pass up that opportunity” to entertain WWE fans. As for WrestleMania, “we’ll see.”

Triple H on Brock Lesnar’s Future

Brock Lesnar is no longer under contract, but WrestleMania season is upon us. WWE likes to reach out to part-time legends to fill out the top matches on their biggest show of the year. When asked about Lesnar’s status for WrestleMania 37, Triple H says it really comes down to what Brock Lesnar wants to do.

“One of the things I have learnt about him is Brock Lesnar does what Brock Lesnar wants to do,” said Triple H. “Nobody can talk him into doing things differently. So time will tell. If wants to show up at WrestleMania he will, if he doesn’t he won’t. The only way to get that answer is to call Brock Lesnar.”

Roman Reigns vs. The Rock

reigns rock

Roman Reigns vs. The Rock is a WrestleMania dream match that both men are interested in. There’s no question that Reigns vs. The Rock is the biggest marquee match WWE could assemble. However, The Rock is the biggest movie star in the world with a very busy schedule. Much like Triple H said about Brock Lesnar, The Rock’s in-ring future is entirely up to him.

“If The Rock can make it happen, he looks in shape, I am sure he would love to do it if his schedule permits. He works hard. The only person that works more than The Rock is Vince McMahon. If there is a will and a way, he will make it happen and WWE will do everything. If fans want to see it, we will make it happen. But it really comes down to does The Rock want to it and does he have the time to do it.”

Triple H added that whatever adrenaline rush The Rock gets from making movies, there’s no way it compares with the rush he’d get from competing in the ring.

Visit Hindustan Times to check out the full interview with Triple H.

WWE Raw Preview: Charlotte vs. Baszler, Asuka vs. Bliss & More

Michael Reichlin
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Tonight’s edition of WWE Raw takes place from the ThunderDome in St. Petersberg, Florida. This is the “go home” show before Sunday’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

The following items are set for the show:

  • Asuka defends the RAW Women’s Championship against Alexa Bliss
  • Charlotte Flair faces Shayna Baszler
  • Matt Riddle competes in a Gauntlet Match against The Hurt Business to earn a shot at Bobby Lashley’s United States Championship.
  • WWE Champion Drew McIntyre and Goldberg will be on hand to promote their match at the Rumble.

Join us here later tonight for our WWE Raw Results & Takeaways.

Catch up on the Top 10 moments from last week’s Raw:

Stephanie McMahon: WWE’s Door Is Open For Ronda Rousey

Chris Stephens
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It’s been almost two years now since Ronda Rousey has wrestled a match in WWE. Her last time in a WWE ring was in the main event of WrestleMania 35. Stephanie McMahon recently addressed Rousey’s possible future with the company during an interview with TMZ.

“Ronda’s been very public that she would like to start her own family,” McMahon said to TMZ. “Once she does that, our doors are absolutely open, our arms are open. We are very hopeful that Ronda will come back home to WWE.”

Stephanie also answered a question during the interview about a possible Roman Reigns vs the Rock match at WrestleMania.

“I suppose there is any chance that we are working on anything at anytime, to answer your question. It would be a phenomenal story to find out who truly sits at the head of the table. You know, when you think about Rock and his family and Roman Reigns and his family. Just the heritage and the lineage in our business of that family. (It is a) huge story and I do hope we get to see it play out one day.”

Stephanie McMahon’s comments about Ronda Rousey can be viewed in the player below:

Daniel Bryan: WWE Needs A New Developmental Territory

Michael Reichlin
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Daniel Bryan believes it’s time for WWE to consider creating a new developmental system to cultivate the next generation of Superstars.

NXT served as WWE’s ‘minor league’ for many years. The “black and gold” brand has evolved into a third brand, alongside Raw and SmackDown. NXT has a weekly television show on the USA Network. It also hosts quarterly pay-per-view specials on the WWE Network. The NXT roster and product rival those of Raw and SmackDown. This presents some advantages, but also some disadvantages.

Daniel Bryan recently spoke with Lucha Libre Online about the WWE developmental conundrum. Bryan tells Michael Morales Torres that WWE needs to address the void left by NXT.

“I definitely don’t think NXT is considered as a developmental territory anymore,” said Bryan. “Which leaves a question: Do we have a developmental territory? Those guys are awesome and I do consider NXT a third brand for our company.”

Daniel Bryan has been an influential force behind the scenes in recent months. As a member of the SmackDown brand, he’s been a vocal about the need to develop new talent.

You can listen to Daniel Bryan’s comments in the Youtube player embedded below:

WWE Developmental

Prior to the launch of NXT, WWE worked with various independent promotions to groom talent. The two most notable developmental territories were Ohio Valley Wrestling and Florida Championship Wrestling. The biggest names of the past twenty years came up through OVW and FCW.

Ohio Valley Wrestling produced talent such as Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Randy Orton, Batista, Kurt Angle, CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, John Morrison, Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin, Beth Phoenix, Natalya, Kelly Kelly and many more.

Florida Championship Wrestling alumni includes Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Jon Moxley, Drew McIntyre, Sheamus, The Bella Twins, Paige, Big E, Kofi Kingston and AJ Lee.

The Performance Center is a world class facility, but Daniel Bryan thinks WWE needs a place for green talent to perform “under the radar” without the spotlight that NXT now brings.

Sasha Banks: My Health & Matches Improved Without WWE’s Grueling Travel Schedule

Michael Reichlin
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Sasha Banks says her work life is a lot more manageable now that WWE is running shows from the same venue every week.

The Covid-19 pandemic has led WWE to suspend touring. The ThunderDome in St. Petersberg, Florida hosts Raw, SmackDown and pay-per-view broadcasts. Live events are on hold indefinitely.

Sasha Banks says her health and in-ring work have improved without having to deal with WWE’s grueling travel schedule. The SmackDown Women’s Champion recently appeared on the Normal Not Normal podcast.

When asked about the impact of WWE’s new schedule, The Boss said, “You have no idea how much I think that has changed my career. For real, it has changed my career so much.”

Sasha Banks on WWE Travel Schedule

WWE Superstars are typically on the road five or six days per week. The never-ending routine of airports, highways, hotels and lack of sleep are punishing in the longterm.

“I’m not just talking about in one state,” Banks says of the usual WWE travel schedule. “I’m driving five or six hours to different states every single day. But we’re not just talking about driving, I’m talking about flying as well – early in the morning – and I’m talking about wrestling too. I’m beating my body, jumping into a car, and driving five hours and getting to the hotel at maybe four in the morning. Sleep in until 12, work out, get your food, and doing the exact same thing. That will beat up your body.”

The life she described only encapsulates the travel portion. Sasha Banks explains that another slew of challenges await once talent arrives to the area.

Sasha Banks Travel

“Now you get to TV, where it’s crazy to begin,” she continued. “You don’t know what’s gonna happen, Vince could push you out there, you have no idea. You could have a 10-minute match, five-minute match, nothing, or a 20-minute segment. Then you go home, do your laundry, and get on the road again.”

Now that she’s no longer traveling the world for work, she’s seen notable improvements with not only her in-ring work, but also her overall health.

“Now, thankfully that I live in Florida, it’s once a week. I feel like a part-timer. My body is in the best shape I’ve ever been in. I’m sleeping so good. My match quality has raised the roof up, and my body just feels awesome.”

Check out the Normal Not Normal podcast to hear their full interview with Sasha Banks.

Stephanie McMahon Addresses WWE Network Moving To Peacock

Michael Reichlin
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Stephanie McMahon sent in a letter to SEScoops addressing the blockbuster news that the WWE Network is moving to the Peacock streaming service (in the United States).

WWE executives have not addressed the financial terms of the agreement, but the Wall Street Journal and Sports Business Journal are reporting that the 5-year agreement with NBC Universal is expected to generate a more than billion dollars in revenue for WWE.

You can read Stephanie McMahons letter on the WWE Network Peacock deal below:

Good morning,

I’m excited to share that this morning WWE and NBCUniversal announced a multi-year agreement that will make Peacock the exclusive home to WWE Network in the United States.

WWE was one of the first to launch a SVOD service, WWE Network, in 2014 to super-serve our most passionate fans with WWE’s most premium content as well as an incredible library of in-ring and original programming that has grown over the last seven years. Since launching last year, Peacock has amassed an incredible catalog of iconic movies and TV shows, along with the best of live news and sports, to which WWE Network will be a perfect complement.  

WWE and NBCU have been partners for nearly 30 years, and we consider this to be a natural extension of our long-standing relationship. Peacock will enable WWE to showcase our most significant events, including WrestleMania, which was previously available on WWE Network for $9.99 per month, to Peacock’s 26 million subscribers for $4.99 per month and for free to the millions of Comcast and Cox homes across the country, helping to better serve and grow our global fanbase.  

We are thrilled to bring WWE Network to Peacock beginning March 18, and to continue to create best-in-class sports entertainment content that will not only put smiles on people’s faces, but provide our fans with an experience worthy of their passion. 

Steph

Stephanie McMahon | Chief Brand Officer
WWE | 1241 E. Main Street, Stamford, CT 06902
Office: 203.352.1103 | LinkedIn: StephMcMahon

WWE Sells Network Streaming Rights To NBCU

Chris Stephens
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WWE and NBC have announced a huge multi-year deal. The WWE Network will move to NBC’s streaming service, Peacock, beginning on March 18th, 2021 in the United States. The move will take place 3 days before the Fastlane PPV on March 21st. This will not impact WWE Network subscribers outside the United States.

The deal will see the cost of the network drop from $9.99/month to $4.99. Subscribers will also gain access to the rest of NBC’s library. An ad-free version of the service is available for $9.99. In a press release sent this morning, WWE noted that details regarding the migration of customers from one service to the other will be forthcoming closer to March.

WWE Sells Network Streaming Rights To NBC Universal

“We are thrilled to further the long-standing and trusted partnership WWE has with NBCUniversal,” said Nick Khan.

“NBCUniversal has a long-standing relationship with WWE that began nearly 30 years ago with Monday Night Raw on USA. WWE has always tapped into the cultural zeitgeist with spectacular live events and larger-than-life characters, and we are thrilled to be the exclusive home for WWE Network and its millions of fans across the country,” said Rick Cordella, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer, Peacock. “WWE Network is a transformative addition to the platform and complements Peacock’s massive catalog of iconic movies and shows, as well as the best live news and sports, from NBCUniversal and beyond.”

There had been rumors WWE was looking to sell the rights to the Network before the onset of the global pandemic. Vince McMahon spoke about the company’s options during the Q4 earnings call in 2019.

“There’s no more better time to exercise the selling of our rights to all the majors who, quite frankly, all the majors are really clamoring for our content,” McMahon said. “So that could be a significant increase, obviously, in terms of revenue.”

Roman Reigns Comments On His Relationship With Jon Moxley

Staff
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Roman Reigns says he still keeps in touch with former Shield partners Seth Rollins and Jon Moxley.

The Shield was undoubtedly one of the biggest forces in WWE over the past decade. The iconic trio created memorable moments right up until their split. Even after they went their separate ways, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Jon Moxley crossed paths many times.

All three men are now huge singles stars. They are also at different stages of their careers. They are not traveling the world together anymore, but Roman Reigns tells Bleacher Report that they are still friendly and keep in touch.

Especially with both Seth Rollins recently becoming a father and Jon Moxley’s wife due later this year, they have a lot in common to talk about. Rollins and Becky Lynch recently became proud parents of a beautiful baby girl, Roux.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIgqx6BD5Zo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins & Jon Moxley

Roman Reigns says the Shield brothers keep in touch via text messaging. They bond about family life and fatherhood.

“We talk here and there,” said Reigns. “Especially with Seth having a new baby and stuff, and I have so many kids. It’s funny because they’re just getting their first one. I have five kids, so I have a legitimate household here… Me and Seth were texting back and forth a few weeks ago. Me and Jon text a little more sporadically.”

Jon Moxley and Renee Paquette are expecting their first child together. Roman Reigns messaged to congratulate them when he learnt the news, and Moxley, in return, asked him for tips on being a father.

Roman Reigns and Jon Moxley were close friends on WWE

“It’s pretty out there anyways that me and Mox were super-tight,” he said. “We traveled together even when we split up. We were drinking buddies, the whole nine. I got a lot of cool moments with Mox. But actually I talk to Seth a little more than I talk to Mox right now. He’s off doing his thing.”

“Probably when I found out he was having a baby was when I texted him, when I found out they were pregnant. He’s funny. He goes, ‘What the heck am I supposed to do?’ ‘It’s simple, man. You feed them, you change them, you love them. That’s it.’ He texts back, ‘You make it sound so simple.’ We’re all still good, dude.”

Visit Bleacher Report to check out the full interview with Roman Reigns.

Becky Lynch Posts Photo With Daughter Roux

Michael Reichlin
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WWE Superstar Becky Lynch is currently on hiatus from WWE after recently giving birth to her first child, daughter Roux.

Lynch posted a photo with Roux on Instagram on Saturday. You can see the touching photo below.

The former Women’s Champion wore a t-shirt by UFC fighter Conor McGregor, who returned to the Octagon Saturday night on pay-per-view. (UFC 257 Highlights)

The t-shirt is a collaboration with the Roots of Fight clothing brand, with proceeds going to benefit Ireland’s Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin:

“With this collection, we pay respect to the undeniable force of nature that is Conor McGregor who brings his entire country with him with every new challenge. This limited edition ROF X CM collab is only available for a few short weeks as we lead up to his fight on Jan. 23rd against Dustin Poirier. All profits from sales will benefit the Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin that supports Children’s Health in Ireland.”

Visit Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin to support that worthwhile cause.

The Conor McGregor t-shirt worn by Becky Lynch can be purchased at Roots of Fight.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CKaFbrHB6So

Jon Moxley on WWE – “If They Called I Would Listen”

Jake Skudder
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AEW star Jon Moxley recently spoke to Bleacher Report for an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session. During the Q&A a fan would ask Moxley if he could ever consider returning to WWE at one point.

“You gotta say never say never” Moxley stated during the interview. “Because you don’t want to run back what you said years later because you don’t know what’ll happen. Just the creation of AEW was so vital to the wrestling industry, and that’s part of the reason why I’m so proud to be a part of it.”

“I wouldn’t rule out ever doing business with them (WWE) again” Jon Moxley continued. “We had a mutually beneficial relationship for a long time.”

Jon Moxley finished by saying that he would speak to WWE if they called him, but he doubts that he and the company would ever be on the ‘same page.’ “If they called? I would listen, but I highly doubt we would ever be on the same page. I’d be open to an idea. I don’t not like money. I got a kid on the way and gotta put it through college, so ya know? I would take a phone call, but I highly doubt anything would materialize.”

Do you think that Jon Moxley/Dean Ambrose could ever return to WWE? Would you like to see the Lunatic Fringe back in a WWE ring? Let us know in the comments

Jim Cornette: “Ryback Is a Disrespectful Piece of Sh*t”

Jake Skudder
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Former NWA commentator and outspoken pro wrestling personality Jim Cornette recently discussed the ongoing online ‘feud’ between Ryback and Mark Henry.

Ryback recently made comments on Championships in wrestling, saying that they are ‘props.’ “Wrestling’s fake guys and the Championships are props to market entertainers as ‘Champions’” Ryback said. “Nobody has actually ever won or lost a prop, as scripted physical entertainment is incapable of that.”

Mark Henry took exception to this, making multiple disparaging comments on Busted Open Radio towards The Big Guy. It appears as though Jim Cornette agrees with Henry, making the following comments on his Drive Thru podcast.

Jim Cornette on Ryback

“He don’t get the f*cking picture” Cornette began. “Because he’s (Ryback) got such a hard on for Vince and the WWE, because they didn’t make him a world champion. He sounds…he is a disrespectful piece of sh*t that wouldn’t have been allowed in the wrestling business 30 years ago; because the way he talks about it, thinks about it, obviously, and considers it.”

“F*ck you” Jim Cornette continued. “Just because you didn’t get to be World Champion, and you didn’t get to win the belt and you didn’t get to do whatever you wanted to do; to where you had to walk away on a multimillion dollar contract because they wouldn’t see how ‘great’ you were? You call the business phoney and fake, you tell everybody the championships are props, don’t mean anything. You were f*cking jilted by your f*cking boyfriend so you try to tear him down.”

Jim Cornette has thrown comments at Ryback in the past, but these recent words seem far more incendiary. Mark Henry does not seem interested in discussing the ‘feud’ on Busted Open further; Ryback himself has made it clear that his issues were only ever with WWE themselves and not the talent.

Dax Harwood: I Want Chad Gable In All Elite Wrestling

Jake Skudder
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AEW star Dax Harwood recently appeared on a special AdFreeShows watchalong as part of the ARN podcast. Harwood joined AEW on-screen coach and former WWE agent Arn Anderson to discuss The Revival vs American Alpha from NXT Takeover Dallas in 2016.

The match is heralded as one of the greatest tag team bouts in WWE history; with the team now known as FTR losing the belts to Chad Gable and Jason Jordan.

During the special ‘Top Guy’ AdFreeShows watchalong, Dax Harwood stated how all four men became best friends during their run of NXT house shows working the tag team match. Harwood also stated that Jason Jordan is probably one of the hardest working performers he has ever been in the ring with. Dax clarified also that Jordan is right up there in talent with the aforementioned Chad Gable.

“That’s what separates you. That’s what separates the wrestlers from guys who are playing wrestler” Dax Harwood stated during the stream; discussing the nuance and intricacy of the match. “Theres guys who can go in there and do some athletic, crazy stuff. And I wish I could, but if you believe in your heart that you’re the best? If you believe that you’re the biggest badass in the world? Nobody can beat you, you’re gonna look legit.”

Dax Harwood on Chad Gable

Dax Harwood then finished by saying that All Elite should look at getting Chad Gable brought into the company. “I think we should get Gable into AEW, but that’s just my thought.”

Whilst Chad Gable’s WWE contract status is not clear? The phrasing from Harwood seemed to indicate that this could be a possibility, although there’s no way to truly determine if that’s the case without speaking to Gable. The former NXT Tag Team Champion Chad Gable has been used on SmackDown more over the past few weeks; running his Alpha Academy with Otis and also helping Daniel Bryan.

There’s clearly a huge upside to be had with Chad Gable as a legitimate singles star. Back in his NXT days there was a lot of comparisons made to another former amateur wrestler with charisma, Kurt Angle.

A fan on Twitter stated that they agree with Dax Harwood’s opinion about Chad Gable. Harwood said that most people don’t even know how good Gable really is.

Do you agree with Dax Harwood? Do you think that Chad Gable should head to AEW? Let us know in the comments

Drew McIntyre Reacts To Undertaker’s ‘Soft’ Comments

Jake Skudder
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WWE Champion Drew McIntyre recently discussed The Undertaker’s comments about modern day WWE being ‘soft.’ The Deadman recently appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast and compared today’s product to that of the Attitude Era and prior.

“It’s tough right now, for me, because the product has changed so much. It’s kinda soft” Undertaker said on the podcast. “I’ll probably piss a lot of people off but they need to hear it” Undertaker continued. “To the young guys, ‘oh, he’s a bitter old guy.’ I’m not bitter, I did my time. I walked away. I just think the product is a little soft. There are guys here and there who have an edge to them, but there’s too much pretty and not enough edge.”

Drew McIntyre on The Undertaker

“I don’t agree whatsoever” Drew McIntyre began speaking to Riju Dasgupta from Sportskeeda. “Especially from an in-ring perspective. I’m not sure if…I listened to part of it, I haven’t listened to the whole interview because it’s pretty new. But I think he (Undertaker) meant referring to the storylines and characters etc.”

“The co-host on the [Joe Rogan] show is a fan from the Attitude Era” McIntyre continued. “So I think they were referring to outlandish storylines back in the day, more sexually based content, more risqué, more 18 plus. Our current product is PG, so there’s only so far that we can push it and are willing to push it. There’s certain things from back in the day that were awesome, there’s certain things that were not awesome that I wouldn’t want to go back to. So I’m not sure if it was more from like that perspective, when it comes to the stories not being as adult based as it used to be.”

Drew McIntyre then finished by saying that today’s WWE roster the ‘best ever.’ “But I think we’re walking a good line right now. When it comes to the in-ring game? That’s not true at all [about the product being soft]. It’s never been more physical, the in-ring talent right now? We’ve got the best in-ring roster of all time.”

Do you agree with The Undertaker or Drew McIntyre? Let us know in the comments

Zelina Vega Says Becky Lynch Supported Her After WWE Release

Chris Stephens
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Zelina Vega was recently asked if she was friends with Becky Lynch. According to her response, Lynch was someone who really supported Zelina after she was released by WWE.

“True, she’s one of the people that was really there for me after I left. I’ll always appreciate her,” Zelina wrote.

Zelina Vega was released from WWE this November following the implementation of the company’s new policy on 3rd party accounts. She spoke about the experience on her Twitch stream.

“The past week has been hell. Literal hell. Friday was the worst day of my life, well, since 2001,” Vega said. “When you hear about me in the social media world, sometimes misinformation can be spread.”

“I thought people were going to look at me like the devil. Let’s just say that the narrative has been spun completely out of control and is completely wrong,” Vega continued. “When people see the real story that I put out, that’s who I am. I’ve learned to grow as a person. I’ve known to realize my worth and stand up for who I am, and appreciate the things I’ve gotten along the way.”

It would later be reported that Zelina was escorted out of the building following her WWE release.

“According to one person in the company with knowledge of the situation, she was told about it by Mark Carrano, asked to talk to Vince McMahon and Carrano told her that he doesn’t want to talk to you and [she] was escorted out of the building.”

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WWE Comments on Larry King Passing Following COVID-19 Treatment

Jake Skudder
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Renowned talk show host and household name Larry King passed away earlier today. The host of ‘Larry King Live’ died at the age of 87 following treatment for COVID-19.

King has appeared on WWE programming a number of times in the past. The company released a statement earlier today remembering the iconic talk show host.

The statement released by WWE reads as follows:

WWE is saddened to learn that Larry King passed away at the age of 87.

The talk show titan reimagined possibilities in the world of television with his iconic “The Larry King Show.” Prominent figures from the entertainment, sports and political worlds graced his show nightly, but King made a special impact on the national coverage of wrestling.

“They are incredible athletes, their fan following is amazing, but their results are never in the paper… To me, if someone is interesting, then I am curious. And wrestlers—and wrestling—are interesting,” King once told Sports Illustrated.

When “The Larry King Show” debuted on Ora.TV in 2012, King featured a special WWE Superstars episode that included John Cena, The Miz & Maryse, Big Show and more. After being named Social Media Ambassador for Raw, King would bring his legendary show to the red brand in 2012. It was an eventful night for two-time Peabody Award winner, as the A-Lister memorably couldn’t help but crash his set and King also provided some life advice to Daniel Bryan.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Larry King at this time.

CM Punk Names His Favorite WWE Superstar Of 2020

Chris Stephens
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2020 was an incredibly unique year in the world or pro-wrestling. Despite the many challenges wrestling promotions faced last year, there still were many notable and historic events that took place in the industry.

Former WWE Superstar CM Punk recently answered some fan questions on social media. During the #AskPunk Q&A session, Punk was asked about his favorite WWE Superstar in 2020. The Chicago native named Bill Goldberg.

Goldberg only wrestled twice in 2020. He performed on two of the biggest events of the year, however. Neither match went longer than 3-minutes. Goldberg defeated The Fiend at Super Show-Down to win the WWE Universal Championship in 2 minutes and 59 seconds. He then lost to Braun Strowman on night 1 of WrestleMania 36 in just 2 minutes and 13 seconds.

CM Punk did not just name his favorite wrestler to watch in the ring. He complimented Goldberg’s intelligence, which is likely a reference to Goldberg’s ability to command big money for very little time in the ring. Whatever WWE is paying him, and you know it’s a lot, Goldberg clocked only 5 minutes and 12 seconds of ring time during two matches in 2020.

Punk was also asked about doing a video game deal with 2K as part of the WWE series. He said he’s open to the idea but sounds pessimistic that something like that would happen.

Punk was also asked about the best piece of advice he’s heard.

New Champions Crowned At NJPW Road To The New Beginning

Chris Stephens
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New Japan Pro Wrestling was inside the Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo today for the 5th show of its Road to the New Beginning tour. In the main event, Bullet Club’s Taiji Ishimori & El Phantasmo captured the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championships. They defeated the now-former champions, Yoshinobu Kanemaru & El Desperado from Suzuki-Gun.

Ishimori & ELP begin the 63rd reign in the title’s lineage. It is the second time the duo have won the titles. They also held the belts from Kizuna Road on June 16th, 2019 until Night 2 of Wrestle Kingdom 14 on January 5th, 2020.

Upcoming NJPW Schedule

There are 3 big “New Beginning” events for NJPW in the coming weeks. Below are the lineups for the events.

The New Beginning in Nagoya (1/30)

  • Shingo Takagi (c) vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi (NEVER Openweight Championship)
  • Satoshi Kojima vs. Will Ospreay
  • Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs. Great-O-Khan
  • Kota Ibushi, Tomoaki Honma, SHO, and Master Wato vs. SANADA, Tetsuya Naito, Hiromu Takahashi, and BUSHI
  • Kazuchika Okada and Toru Yano vs. EVIL and Yujiro Takahashi

The New Beginning in Hiroshima (Night 1: 2/10)

  • Hiromu Takahashi (c) vs. SHO (IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship)
  • Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa (c) vs. Taichi & Zack Sabre Jr. (IWGP Tag Team Championship)
  • Kota Ibushi and Tomoaki Honma vs. SANADA and Tetsuya Naito
  • Kazuchika Okada, Toru Yano, Hirooki Goto, Tomohiro Ishii, and YOSHI-HASHI vs. EVIL, Yujiro Takahashi, Dick Togo, Taiji Ishimori, and El Phantasmo
  • BUSHI vs. Master Wato
  • Minoru Suzuki, El Desperado, and Yoshinobu Kanemaru vs. Yota Tsuji, Yuya Uemura, and Gabriel Kidd

NJPW The New Beginning in Hiroshima (Night Two: 2/11)

  • Kota Ibushi (c) vs. SANADA (IWGP Heavyweight and Intercontinental Championships)
  • Taichi, Zack Sabre Jr., and DOUKI vs. Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and Jado
  • Kazuchika Okada and Toru Yano vs. EVIL and Dick Togo
  • Tetsuya Naito, Hiromu Takahashi, and BUSHI vs. Tomoaki Honma, SHO, and Master Wato
  • Minoru Suzuki, El Desperado, and Yoshinobu Kanemaru vs. Yujiro Takahashi, Taiji Ishimori, and El Phantasmo
  • Hirooki Goto, Tomohiro Ishii, and YOSHI-HASHI vs. Yota Tsuji, Yuya Uemura, and Gabriel Kidd

More WWE & AEW Stars React to The Undertaker Calling Today’s Generation Soft

Chris Stephens
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The Undertaker ruffled some feathers this week with comments he made during an appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. The Dead Man knocked today’s generation of wrestlers as being ‘soft’ compared to the outlaws of the 1980’s & 90’s.

“You go into a dressing room nowadays and it’s a lot different. I remember walking into my first real dressing room and all I saw were some crusty f***ing men. Half of them had guns and knives in their bags. S**t got handled back then,” Taker said. “Now you walk in, there’s guys playing video games and making sure they look pretty. It’s evolution, I guess. I don’t know what it is, but I just like those eras, man. I liked when men were men.”

Several wrestlers have taken issue with The Undertaker’s remarks. In response to what The Undertaker said about playing video games and looking pretty, Cedric Alexander replied:

Aiden English also posted the following to social media in regards to Taker’s comments:

AEW star Trent joked that The Undertaker should be jailed for his ‘hot take.’

https://twitter.com/trentylocks/status/1352773770830868482

Joey Janela says he’s going to purchase and bury a Playstation 5 to honor the tough guys that came before him.

In addition to knocking today’s pro wrestlers, The Undertaker also took issue with the WWE product. When asked if he enjoys modern WWE programming, he said, “It’s tough right now for me… cause the product has changed so much and it’s kind of soft. I’ll probably piss a lot of people off but they need to hear it. It is what it is.”

Mick Foley On How “What?” Chants Make Promos Difficult

Chris Stephens
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The infamous “What?” chants started to be heard in WWE in 2001. Steve Austin had just turned heel and was using the one-word question regularly in his promos. For two decades since, fans chanting “What?” during promos has become a polarizing topic in wrestling.

Mick Foley recently commented on how the chants can make cutting a promo difficult. He took to Twitter to let his feelings on the matter be known.

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1352833353939087361

“It can be very difficult for any wrestler to find their voice amidst a chorus of “what” chants – it’s like going up to bat with the count starting at 0-2. While it’s still POSSIBLE to hit a promo out of the park, those annoying chants make it a hell of a lot less likely.”

Foley’s comments were in response to a user on Twitter noting that Roman Reigns didn’t “find his voice” until after live crowds were no longer in attendance at events.

Christian noted in an interview in 2019, that he played a role in the “What?” chants coming to be. He said that Austin first started using it on a voicemail he left him around that time.

“(Austin) left this rambling voicemail on my message machine. He was just saying random stuff like: ‘I’m just passing a tree. What?! I said I’m passing a tree. What?!’ Random – about anything,” Christian said.

“Then a week or two later I was sitting in the back on Raw and I could hear the audio of him doing a promo in the ring and I heard him doing the ‘What?’ I was like ‘I can’t believe he’s going to do this and he’s going to get this over'”.

WWE SmackDown Results (1/22): Roman Reigns & Kevin Owens, IC Title Match

Robert Lentini
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WWE SmackDown aired live from the ThunderDome inside Tropicana Field. In addition to the takeaways below, Universal Champion Roman Reigns pulled some strings and barred Kevin Owens from the ThunderDome. During tonight’s show, Kevin Owens discussed his grandparents’ initials tattooed on his hand and why he will always just keep fighting. Owens vowed to win the Last Man Standing match and become Universal Champion at Royal Rumble.

SmackDown Results (1/22)

  1. Charlotte & Asuka def. Riott Squad
  2. Cesaro def. Dolph Ziggler
  3. Sasha Banks def. Reginald
  4. Apollo Crews def. Big E via DQ
  5. King Corbin def. Dominik

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Paul Heyman Challenged Adam Pearce

Universal Champion Roman Reigns came down to the ring with Paul Heyman to begin this week’s episode. Reigns said Kevin Owens will not be on the show because he said so. Roman claimed “card subject to change” is how losers think and that he shows up and puts in work every day. Reigns noted that it took his health being at risk during a pandemic for him to miss time.

Reigns called Adam Pearce “a puss” and mocked him for faking an injury last week. Roman added that his back hurts from carrying the WWE for years now and that maybe he can’t make it to Royal Rumble because his back is in pain. Adam Pearce interrupted and said that this has gone too far.

Roman stated that it was out of control that Pearce would put Kevin Owens back in the title picture. Reigns called Pearce “Kevin Owens’ bitch” and noted that Adam hasn’t been in a match for six years but had the audacity to complain that his body hurts. Roman said “no wonder you never made it to WWE” and Heyman laughed in Pearce’s face.

Pearce told Heyman that he can take the intimation from Reigns but sure as hell isn’t going to take it from Heyman. Paul claimed that Pearce just disrespected the Tribal Chief and suggested that they face each other later tonight in the main event. Pearce accepted the challenge to end the segment.

Reigns later told Heyman as he tried to weasel out of the match that he hired a man as his special counsel and handle his business tonight.

The Women’s Tag Team Champs Picked Up A Win

Women’s Tag Team Champions Charlotte Flair & Asuka faced Riott Squad in a non-title match. Sami Zayn handcuffed himself to the barricade for the conspiracy documentary he is filming. Billie Kay was ringside for the match. Riott and Flair locked up in the middle of the ring to begin the action. Flair applied a Headlock and brought Riott to the canvas. Asuka tagged in and leveled Ruby with a shoulder tackle.

Charlotte bounced Ruby’s face off the top turnbuckle but got distracted by Billie Kay. Liv Morgan tagged in and hit Flair with a Dropkick to the face. Morgan followed it up with a Crossbody for a near fall as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, the Riott Squad was in control and had Flair trapped in the corner.

Flair battled back and unloaded several chops. Charlotte planted Liv with a Fallaway Slam and Asuka tagged in. Asuka hit a knee to the face and went for the cover but Ruby Riott broke it up at two. Liv went for an Enziguri but Asuka countered into an Ankle Lock. Asuka hit Morgan with a German Suplex and then Ruby tagged in.

Riott rolled up Asuka but Billie Kay was arguing with the referee. Asuka hit Liv with a Hip Attack and Charlotte tagged herself in. Charlotte hit Natural Selection on Ruby for the pinfall victory. Billie Kay tried to apologize Ruby and Liv backstage but Riott wasn’t having it. Billie told Riott Squad that she talked to Sonya and she got them into the Women’s Royal Rumble match. Riott told Billie that the squad was much better when it was just two of them.

Cesaro Dominated

Daniel Bryan made his way to the ring and traded some words with Sami Zayn who was still handcuffed on the entrance ramp. Bryan said he was going to be in the Royal Rumble match and broke down why he loved it. Daniel said it is one of the most challenging things in the WWE and it makes him feel alive.

Bryan said he is proud of his career and has accomplished a lot but he has never won a Royal Rumble match. Cesaro interrupted and claimed that he was going to win this year’s Royal Rumble match. Cesaro boasted about winning the first Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal. Daniel challenged Cesaro to a rematch from last week and Cesaro responded “how about no”.

Cesaro said he beat Bryan last week and is tired of doing the same thing over and over. Cesaro issued an open challenge and Dolph Ziggler made his way to the ring. Ziggler stated that he has been in the 2nd most Royal Rumble matches of all time and that he wants to win so he can go to WrestleMania and get paid. Dolph then accepted Cesaro’s challenge as SmackDown went to a break.

Daniel Bryan joined commentary as Cesaro started off the match in control. Cesaro swung Ziggler around the ring several times for a two count. Ziggler rolled up Cesaro for a two count and then Cesaro did the same. Dolph hit the Zig Zag and went for the cover but Cesaro kicked out at two. Ziggler went for the Fameasser but Cesaro countered into the Neutralizer for the pinfall victory.

Sasha Banks Tapped Out Reginald

SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks squared off against Reginald tonight on SmackDown. Carmella was ringside for the match. Sasha went for an Arm Drag but Reginald landed on his feet. Reginald flipped off the ring apron and to the floor but Banks caught him with a Dropkick through the ropes. Banks planted Reginald with a Bulldog and went for Double Knees but Reginald got out of the way. Reginald went for a Powerbomb but Sasha countered with an Arm Drag.

Sasha climbed to the top rope and went for a Crossbody but Reginald caught her. Sasha sent Reginald out of the ring and hit him with a Meteora off the apron. Banks knocked the champagne out of Carmella’s hand and then the action returned to the ring. Sasha then locked in the Bank Statement for the submission victory.

Sami Zayn Interfered In The IC Title Match

Big E defended the Intercontinental Championship against Apollo Crews. Big E hit a Belly to Belly Suplex right away and then sent Crews to the corner. Crews hit Big E with a kick to the face and followed it up with a Moonsault for a two count. Big E hit Crews with a Uranage and went for the cover but Apollo was able to kick out at two. Crews hit Big E with a Moonsault off the apron and then made his way to the top rope.

The Intercontinental Champion connected with a punch to the face and went for a Superplex but Crews blocked it. Apollo hit a few headbutts and knocked Big E off the turnbuckle. Sami unlocked his handcuffs as Apollo hit Big E with a Drop Kick. Sami ran into the ring and hit Crews with the Helluva Kick. Sami then delivered a Helluva Kick to Big E as well. Sami shouted that this was justice as he exited the ring.

Bianca Belair Won The Obstacle Course Challenge

Street Profits approached Sonya Deville and said that they deserve a rematch for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. Sonya told Montez Ford that he was still injured and not ready to come back. Deville suggested that it was time to give some more teams a shot and when Ford is healthy the Street Profits will be right back in the title picture.

Michael Cole hosted the obstacle course challenge between Bianca Belair and Bayley tonight. After Michael Cole made the introductions, Bayley ripped the microphone away and told Michael Cole to leave. Bayley said that they were going to start with a 400 pound tire and then run through several obstacles ringside. Chad Gable assisted in the obstacle course as well.

Bayley flipped the tire and then just ran around the obstacles instead of climbing them. Bayley lifted Gable up in the Fireman’s Carry and then made a layup after dropping him. Bayley finished the course in 1:12. Bayley then added a few more obstacles to the course and Bianca got through them quickly. Belair then lifted Otis up in the Fireman’s Carry and then juked around Bayley. Bianca Belair dunked the basketball and won the obstacle course challenge. Bayley attacked Belair and beat her down before launching her into the basketball hoop.

King Corbin Easily Defeated Dominik

Dominik faced King Corbin tonight on SmackDown. Dominik hit Corbin with a Dropkick that knocked him out of the ring. Dominik went for a Crossbody but Corbin got out of the way and delivered a Clothesline. Back in the ring, Corbin went for the cover but Dominik was able to kick out at two. Corbin controlled the next few minutes and slowed the match down. Corbin went for End of Days but Dominik escaped. Dominik went for 619 but Corbin blocked it. Corbin hit Dominik with a punch to the face and followed it up with End of Days for the pinfall victory.

Kevin Owens Attacked Roman Reigns

Adam Pearce stood in the ring as Paul Heyman marched to the ring. Heyman was taping up his fists and stumbled on the steel steps. Heyman hobbled around saying his knee hurt and fell to the floor. Paul shouted “you know what they say, card subject to change” and stared at Pearce.

Universal Champion Roman Reigns made his way to the ring and hit Pearce with a Superman Punch. Roman tried to grab the steel steps but Adam shoved him away. Reigns hit Pearce with a low blow and then slammed him into the ThunderDome. Kevin Owens showed up and attacked Reigns.

Roman rolled Owens into the ring and went for a Superman Punch but Owens hit him with a kick to the midsection. Owens connected with a Stunner and Roman rolled out of the ring. Owens beat Reigns down against the barricade as WWE officials tried to break it up.

Owens stomped on Roman a few more times before officials pulled him away. Owens escaped and hit Roman with another Stunner. Owens shouted at Heyman and asked if he had anything to say. Kevin then put Roman through the announce table with a Pop-Up Powerbomb to close another solid edition of SmackDown.

Latest On Aleister Black’s WWE Status

Andrew Ravens
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Aleister Black hasn’t been seen on WWE TV in a few months, which has caused fans to wonder what his status is. His disappearance also came at a time where his wife, Zelina Vega, was released by the company. 

According to PWInsider, there are big plans in store for him. WWE made the call to purposely pull him from television so he could have a big “dramatic debut” on SmackDown. As to why that hasn’t happened just yet, there’s no word, but it’s possible the company is waiting for the right time to do so. 

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson stated, “I was told he was purposely pulled from television so he comes back and have a big dramatic debut for SmackDown, and it just hasn’t happened. My feeling is maybe the stuff with his wife Zelina, might have led to them saying ‘hey, let’s wait a bit, let’s the waters kind of calm.” 

Black was sent from Raw to SmackDown last October during the WWE Draft. However, after dropping losses to Kevin Owens, he disappeared a few weeks later. 

When Paul Heyman was still the acting Raw Executive Director, he was high on the former NXT Champion with the idea to push him as a top star on Raw a year ago. However, once Heyman was removed from this role, Black’s push stopped.

Two Part-Time Legends Expected Compete at WWE WrestleMania 37

Andrew Ravens
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With WrestleMania 37 quickly approaching, WWE has started to look at what they will have planned for the biggest show of the year. 

It was previously reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE has yet to lock in the top matches for the show.

WrestleVotes has since reported that once it was determined that this year’s show would take place over the course of two nights then the creative team started working on “bigger” ideas for the show. WWE is looking to lock in four marquee matches for the weekend, with two matches per night to take place. 

The report goes onto state that the company feels they need some outside assistance from big names. John Cena and Goldberg are said to be “nearly” locked in for WrestleMania.

John Cena
John Cena

The Rock is unlikely to appear while things are to be determined with The Undertaker even though he retired last November at Survivor Series. Triple H’s status is considered ‘TBD.’

Cena does live in the area and is likely to be more available than usual since production in Hollywood has slowed down because of the pandemic. The former WWE Champion was also featured in the “WrestleMania Report” video to promote the event and announce the dates and locations for the next three WrestleMania events.

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