One WWE Hall Of Famer truly believes The Rock will become the President Of The United States one day.

Ex-World Heavyweight Champion Mark Henry was interviewed by Sportskeeda, where he went out on a limb and said he believes fellow former Nation Of Domination member Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will one day become President Of The United States.

Henry even went as far as saying that he’d support The Rock and his presidential run, regardless of political party, because he believes he’ll do the right thing.

“I’m calling my shot right now. Dwayne Johnson will be President of the United States one day,” Henry said.

“I’ve never been involved in politics in my life. When he decides to become a politician, I will do everything I can to push what party… Democrat, Republican, Independent — I don’t care. Because I know he’s going to do the right thing.”

The Rock has teased or flat out confirmed that he’d consider running for President Of The United States in the future. The next presidential election in the United States is not scheduled until 2024.

At the moment, The Rock seemingly continues to focus on his acting career. Since leaving WWE, Johnson has established himself as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, finding himself in some of the greatest blockbuster franchises of all time.

It will be interesting to see if he decides to walk away from Hollywood in order to pursue a political career in the most powerful position in the lands.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

Many have begun to wonder how WWE management now feels about Theory now that Vince McMahon has departed the company.

Well, according to a report from Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Theory shouldn’t have much to worry about. Triple H is reportedly a big proponent of the current Money In The Bank briefcase holder.

Theory is said to still be a big part of WWE’s plans, despite McMahon having since departed the company. His look, size, and athleticism have been praised. At this point it’s all about getting him the ring work.

Vince McMahon was a big fan of Theory, so much so that he even involved himself in his storylines. Theory was able to capture the Money In The Bank briefcase at the similarly named pay-per-view (PPV) earlier this year as a last-second entrant after dropping the United States Title earlier that night.

He teased cashing in at SummerSlam during the Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns Last Man Standing match, but was prevented.

Since, he enjoyed a brief feud with Dolph Ziggler on Monday Night RAW, and on this week’s episode, seemingly sparked the beginning of a new feud with the returning Johnny Gargano.

Still holding the briefcase, it will be interesting to see how much longer it takes for WWE to decide to pull the trigger on Thoery finally cashing in.

Triple H has made some notable moves since taking over as head of creative and head of talent relations in WWE following the resignation of Vince McMahon amid the hush money scandals. 

He has brought back several former WWE stars, and another notable former “Triple H guy” may be set for a return.

Jonah Returning to WWE?

Andrew Zarian reported on the We’re Live Pal podcast that Jonah, better known as Bronson Reed, is a name who has been talked about within the company over the last few weeks. It’s unclear whether Jonah is interested in returning to the company. 

After Jonah first joined WWE in January 2019, he made his televised in-ring debut as a competitor in the NXT Breakout Tournament. In May 2021, he won the NXT North American Championship. 

Jonah worked his last match on WWE television in July 2021 when he lost to Adam Cole on an episode of NXT. He was later released alongside several other stars. 

Following his WWE departure, he has worked for promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Impact Wrestling. The former NXT North American Champion recently participated in NJPW’s G1 Climax 32, which occurred between July 16 and August 18. He finished the tournament with 8 points in Block A and was unsuccessful in making it to the championship match. 

He is booked to wrestle for NJPW once more during the promotion’s Burning Spirit tour, which is scheduled to run until September 25.

Roman Reigns finds it “hard to believe” that Vince McMahon is gone from WWE.

“The Tribal Chief” was recently a guest on the Sports Illustrated Media podcast, where he gave his thoughts on the longtime WWE frontman finally retiring.

Reigns said he, like most people, found it hard to believe when he first heard the news.

“You know, it’s just hard to believe [that Vince McMahon is no longer CEO and Chairman of WWE], because I think along with anyone who has followed this business or been in this business that just, Vince is gonna be running this,” Roman Reigns said.

“I’m gonna be long gone. I’ll be 20 years retired and Vince is still running the show, you know what I mean? So I think that was just kind of, ah, okay, we’ll see.

“We’ll see him in six months or something like that I think was kind of the mindset that I initially took and then I think we received, you know, the Talent Relations text message and then obviously, a personal message from him and we talked a little bit and yeah.”

McMahon was forced to step down as WWE CEO after several allegations of sexual misconduct were made against him. As a result, the duo of Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan stepped up to fill the void as co-CEOs.

Although McMahon had stepped down as CEO, he still served as the head of creative for WWE, heading production of television backstage. However, that all changed when several investigations into the sexual misconduct allegations began.

Shortly after, McMahon took to Twitter where he officially announced his retirement, leaving WWE altogether as day-to-day head of creative. That job then fell into the lap of his son-in-law and former WWE Champion Triple H.

Although the longtime regime of McMahon has seemingly come to a close, there is a ton of optimism for the new direction the company is headed in the aftermath.

Quotes via Post Wrestling

During last week’s AEW Dynamite, then-World Champion CM Punk declared that he would unify his title with Interim AEW World Champion Jon Moxley, in the main event of All Out 2022.

Instead, the two had their title unification match on this week’s Dynamite, which saw Moxley destroy Punk to be crowned the AEW Undisputed World Champion.

The Main Event

With AEW’s arguable biggest match ever taking place earlier this week, this has left All Out 2022 without a main event, or so it would seem.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that despite the match announced for All Out happening on this week’s Dynamite, the plan has not changed.

“It is Punk and Moxley. I don’t know if they’re gonna add stips or whatever but that is the main event.”

Dave Meltzer

It is unclear how AEW will put Punk back in the title picture, especially with All Out just over one week away.

Punk-Moxley 2: Should it Happen?

With AEW All Out 2022 fast approaching, it makes sense that the promotion wants a main event that already has a story connected.

However, some fans have questioned whether Punk should receive a rematch so quickly after not just being beaten, but beaten decisively by Moxley.

While AEW’s story appears to be that Punk returned from his injury too soon, as seen by how little offense he got in during the title-unification match, it makes little sense that he would try again mere days after being defeated with ease.

Some have suggested that the loss on Dynamite was done to make Punk’s title win at All Out 2022 ‘bigger’ and kick off the title run that was supposed to start earlier this year prior to his injury.

In the latest AEW rankings, Hangman Page, Powerhouse Hobbs, Jay Lethal, Darby Allin, and Bryan Danielson are all in line for an AEW Undisputed World Champion opportunity.

4 Reasons CM Punk vs. Jon Moxley is More Than Just a Title Match

Roman Reigns has revealed some details of his new WWE contract.

Reigns inked a new deal with WWE back in May, which would see the current Undisputed WWE Champion work less days. Now, Reigns only appears every other week or so on WWE television, and even misses out on some of the lesser priority Premium Events.

Recently, “The Tribal Chief” appeared on the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast, where he divulged a bit more about his WWE deal, explaining his new schedule.

“So the main thing is, no, we’re not gonna be on every single pay-per-view but anything that I am on which of course will be all the major ones and then a couple of the other ones, you know, that kind of fall in between the big four and the Saudis.

“I’ll always support those with TVs to build the story and the rivalry going forward so, it’s not like — compared to what I did, I guess, yeah, you could say technically, that’s, compared to a full-time, taking on everything, you only get a day-and-a-half-a-week.

“Yeah, I guess it’s a part-time compared to what I usually run but, I’m an annual character on WWE television.”

Currently, Reigns is enjoying a prosperous run as the head of The Bloodline alongside Paul Heyman and The Usos. The Usos hold both the RAW and SmackDown Tag Team Titles, while Reigns is the WWE and Universal Champion.

At the moment, Reigns is locked in a feud with Drew McIntyre, who he’ll put his titles up for grabs against next. The pair will headline the Clash At The Castle event on September 3 from Cardiff, Wales.

Quotes via Post Wrestling

Liv Morgan’s reign as SmackDown Women’s Champion is off to a rocky start.

Morgan won the gold by winning Money in the Bank at July’s premium live event and cashing in on a battered Ronda Rousey later in the evening. Ambushing a vulnerable champion is not the best start to a babyface title reign, but fans were excited for her nonetheless.

She retained the title against Rousey at SummerSlam, but only won because the referee didn’t see her tapping out to Rousey’s arm bar. Once again, not the best look for a babyface champion.

Morgan is now feuding with Shayna Baszler. The Submission Magician has been getting the upper hand so far, with the champion in peril ahead of their upcoming match at Clash at the Castle.

Weak Champion

Former WWE writer Freddie Prinze Jr. discussed WWE’s booking of Liv Morgan on the latest episode of his Wrestling With Freddie podcast.

Prinze can’t believe what he’s been seeing and feels that Morgan has been portrayed as a punk who has shown no bravery or courage.

“I don’t know whose fault this is,” he began. “Hear me out on this. I’ve never seen someone have to play a weak champion. Someone who tapped out to get the belt, but remains a babyface. Has to protect her arm, it’s almost not even playing injured, it’s like, scared and frail and weak. The stuff with Shayna made her look like a punk – and she’s the champion!

Prinze wasn’t just complaining. He offered some suggestions about how things could have been done differently.

“Don’t look scared. Look defiant. That should be the note, you know, when Shayna is like, ‘I’m gonna break your hand,’ she should be looking at her like, ‘Do it. Do it now and just get it over with and then we’ll see if you even get a match.'”

“[Show] something. Some kind of bravery, courage, something, because everything else has been weird. I’ve never seen a weak babyface champion.”

– Freddie Prinze Jr. on Liv Morgan

You can listen to this week’s full episode of Wrestling with Freddie below:

Please link to SEScoops if you use any of the quotes transcribed in this article. New episodes of Freddie Prinze Jr.’s podcast Wrestling With Freddie drop Wednesdays.

In 1993, just four years into his wrestling career, Billy Gunn debuted for the World Wrestling Federation and became a staple of the company.

Gunn’s first stint with WWE lasted until 2004, and saw him become part of D-Generation X, an Intercontinental, Tag Team, and Hardcore Champion, as well as the 1999 King of the Ring.

His second run in the company from 2012 to 2015 saw Gunn have one final run as a Tag Team Champion.

The Wild West

Gunn spent years with WWE, but was hired by AEW in January 2019, initially as a coach.

In addition to coaching, Gunn has transitioned into being an on-screen performer, and has noticed the differences between his current and previous employer.

Speaking on The Sessions, Gunn told Renee Paquette that personally, he preferred how WWE was operated behind the scenes compared to AEW.

“I’m very used to that [the structure in WWE.] I’m a very structured person. Especially in the wrestling business, the more structured you are, the better things are… and I’m not saying it’s not good in AEW. I’m just saying it’s a little bit on the Wild West side. Which I guess if you’re used to that then it’s okay. I am not used to that.”

” It’s a little bit on the Wild West side.”

Billy Gunn describes AEW’s backstage structure compared to WWE.

Gunn added that “the hardest adjustment” for him has been moving from how WWE works behind the scenes to how AEW operates.

Speaking about his sons, Colten and Austin Gunn, the WWE Hall of Famer said he has to fight the urge to control what they do in accordance to his own ideas about structure.

Coaching in AEW vs. WWE

Come one come all, sit under the learning tree of @RealBillyGunn! We talk teaching moments with talent and the Gunn boys, DX, Chuck and Billy, his relationship with Chyna, and…Yellowstone! Give us a listen! pic.twitter.com/TKq2u0nHUY

— Renee Paquette (@ReneePaquette) August 25, 2022

Billy Gunn has served as a coach in both WWE and AEW. According to Gunn, WWE talent has been more willing to tap into the wisdom of legends behind the scenes.

“In WWE, I don’t want to say they listen more, because that’s not true, [coaches] are just taken a little more serious, I think. Everybody in WWE knows that’s what we are there for and you can come to us anytime you want and run an idea by. Not that they don’t want to, I don’t know what it is.”

“AEW, I’ll have a couple guys, Hobbs, Ricky Starks, a couple of guys that come to me daily. They don’t realize how good that makes us feel. Because I’m not [going to] ask you, if you don’t want my help, then I’m not going to force myself on you, because that’s just not how it works.”

– Billy Gunn

“I’m more than happy to help you if you come to me and say, ‘Hey, would you help me with this, or could you watch this and show me this.’ So, there’s a few people that take advantage of that, I just don’t know.. I’m trying to figure out what it is, it’s not a bad thing, and it’s not like they know everything, maybe it’s just me and my demeanor [laughs].”

Renee suggests, maybe talent in AEW just want to figure it out on their own, or if it’s the looser culture. Gunn speculated, maybe talent thinks that if they ask his advice and don’t do it, he’d be really mad, which is not the case.

• Billy Gunn Not Interested in a WWE vs. AEW War

Listen to Billy Gunn’s appearance on The Sessions with Renee Paquette

Please credit SEScoops with a link to this article if you use any of the transcribed quotes.

For the past month, it has been reported that there has been conflict and unhappiness within AEW.

On last week’s Dynamite, CM Punk reportedly went off-script to bury ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, as a reported receipt for comments made by Page during their feud earlier this year.

Both Andrade El Idolo and Miro have liked tweets suggesting that they are being wasted in AEW and would do better working for WWE.

Baker and Rosa

It’s not just the male wrestlers of All Elite Wrestling that are dealing with drama and tension.

A new report from Voices of Wrestling’s Joe Lanza claims that AEW’s women’s division has plenty of issues within their roster.

Lanza claims that there is legitimate heat between AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa, and the woman she defeated to win the title, Britt Baker (via WhatCulture.)

“Britt Baker and Thunder Rosa cannot stand one another. They have been mortal enemies for years now at this point. They can’t look each other in the eye. They hate each other’s guts.”

“They Have been mortal enemies for years.”

Joe Lanza on the reported real-life beef between Thunder Rosa and Britt Baker.

Broken Nose

Baker isn’t the only wrestler reportedly at odds with the reigning AEW Women’s World Champion.

In his report, Lanza adds that Jamie Hayter also has a genuine disdain for Rosa, after the former suffered a broken nose during their match at AEW Battle of the Belts III.

It is claimed that after the match, Rosa was afraid that she would be attacked by Hayter behind the scenes and hid backstage.

“Rosa was scared that Jamie Hayter was going to beat the living sh*t out of her and was hiding in a bathroom.”

Joe Lanza

Responding to Lanza’s report, Fightful’s Will Washington tweeted that he too has heard of backstage conflict between Rosa and Baker & Hayter.

Not to add fuel to the fire but both of the stories coming from VOW tonight were things I heard about. One of which was immediately after it happened, so I have zero reason to doubt their reporting on the matter. https://t.co/ogwh5nOrwu

— Will Washington ? (@WillWashington) August 25, 2022

On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Rosa said she would be unable to defend her AEW Women’s World Championship due to an injury.

Lanza suggested that this injury may be a work, and that AEW may just want Thunder Rosa away to give people the chance to “cool off.”

An interim AEW Women’s World Champion will be determined at AEW All Out 2022 in a four-way including Baker, Hayter, Toni Storm and Hikaru Shida.

Possible Backstage Heat on Thunder Rosa

In recent weeks, a lot has been said about the atmosphere behind the scenes in All Elite Wrestling.

Last week, CM Punk went off-script to bury ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, and it was reported that Punk had been difficult in recent months.

A report this month said that there is “a ton of backstage drama” within the company right now, with multiple wrestlers liking tweets suggesting they would do better in WWE.

The Meeting

With plenty of reports about the company, last night’s AEW Dynamite was pre-empted by a roster-wide meeting held by Tony Khan.

Fightful Select reports that Khan was “fired up” for the meeting, which took place around four hours before Dynamite went live.

A lot of talent attended the meeting, including wrestlers who were specifically called in, and hadn’t been booked for Dynamite or any of the other tapings yesterday.

Chris Jericho and Tony Schiavone also spoke at the meeting, with Schiavone having taken on a larger role in AEW’s Talent Relations department.

Communication

One big topic of the meeting was the subject of communication, as reports have suggested that Khan has been hard to reach as of late.

Khan addressed how much access the talent has to him and that his door is open to new ideas as well as criticism.

Kenny Omega, who returned to AEW TV this month, as well as The Young Bucks also chimed in, saying their doors are always open, and that if anyone has any concerns, they can always approach them.

Contract Tampering

During the meeting, the topic of contract tampering was also addressed, following allegations that WWE may have done just that.

It’s been reported that WWE has shown interest in AEW talent, including MJF and Wardlow.

AEW’s Chief Legal Officer sent a message to WWE co-CEOs Nick Khan and Stephanie McMahon about the allegations, but it is unclear if they received a response.

Tony Schiavone Fires Back At Reports of Backstage Tensions In AEW

This November, WWE will host its annual Survivor Series event, which will feature Raw and SmackDown Superstars battle it out for brand supremacy.

The Premium Live Event will take place at the TD Garden, in Boston, Massachusetts, on November 26, and mark the 36th annual Survivor Series event.

A Sell-Out Event

With Survivor Series over three months away, no matches have been confirmed for the show thus far, other than the titular elimination tag matches.

Despite this, the show is proving to be immensely popular with fans, according to the Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer.

Meltzer tweeted that the show has virtually sold out during the pre-sale earlier this week, and that the seats reserved for the general public sale are also expected to sell out quickly.

Meltzer added that he cannot recall a show like this selling out so quickly.

Survivor Series in Boston basically sold out during the presale today. Whatever is held back will sellout during the public onsale. I can't think of a WWE show in years to do that.

— Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) August 24, 2022

A Sign of the Times

Survivor Series 2022 is proving to be popular with fans, but that’s not the only show that has done well.

Earlier this month, WWE hosted their WrestleMania Hollywood tickets launch event, featuring Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair and celebrity appearances by Snoop Doog and JoJo Siwa.

Tickets for the two-night April 2023 have reportedly sold incredibly well, despite no matches being confirmed (though The Rock Vs. Roman Reigns has been rumored.)

Over 70,000 tickets have sold so far in the latest report on the two-night Premium Live Event.

WWE officials are said to be “ecstatic” over the sales figures so far, especially for Night Two of the event.

WrestleMania Hollywood Ticket Sales Off to a Strong Start

Story broke out late last night that AEW star Eddie Kingston had been suspended from the company after getting into a real-life altercation with Sammy Guevara.

PWinsider provided some more details on the matter. They confirmed that the confrontation took place several weeks ago in Minneapolis.

According to the site, Kingston took issues with things Guevara said about him during an on-screen promo. Eddie confronted the former TNT champion after he returned backstage and the two had to be separated.

The Mad King was then suspended by the management. He has completed his suspension and is expected to make his return next week.

What Eddie Kingston Has To Say

When reached out about the whole story, Eddie Kingston issued the following response to the site, admitting that he was wrong for being unprofessional:

“You know the truth.  I wouldn’t lie.  I was wrong for being unprofessional.  That is the blind fact.  He did what he did and the public can judge that but I know for a fact I was wrong.”

– Eddie Kingston

Sammy Guevara missed last week’s TV tapings in West Virginia as well. However, there were a lot of travel issues coming into and out of Charleston and it’s hard to say if he was suspended too. Guevara was back at AEW tapings this week, and he worked a mixed tag match on Rampage.

AEW is still advertising the match between Eddie Kingston and Guevara on social media. So contrary to the previous reports, it appears that the match is still on for All Out next month.

On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Jon Moxley became the AEW Undisputed World Champion, defeating CM Punk decisively.

Not only was Moxley’s win a surprise, as Punk had been the favorite to win going in, but he also defeated the Chicago wrestler in mere minutes.

Moxley Takes Aim

Immediately after Dynamite, AEW taped this Friday’s Rampage, which saw an appearance by Moxley.

After the taping, the Undisputed AEW World Champion addressed the Cleveland crowd and had harsh words for WWE.

Moxley implored fans to ask their friends to check out AEW programming if they were watching “that Monday and Friday night crap,” a not-so-subtle nod to Monday Night Raw and SmackDown on FOX.

Not finished, Moxley turned his attention to his fellow Blackpool Combat Club member Claudio Castagnoli.

In 2014, Vince McMahon claimed on ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin’s podcast that Castagnoli, then Cesaro, lacked the ‘It-factor’ required to be a top WWE Superstar.

Addressing the comments, Moxley praised the Ring of Honor World Champion for “ignoring some old crazy man’s” opinions and believing in himself.

What Else?

Moxley’s promo after Rampage wasn’t entirely dedicated to taking shots at his former employer.

The Undisputed AEW World Champion also took the time to praise Wheeler Yuta and Arn Anderson.

Moxley also discussed Dustin Rhodes, who faces Castagnoli for the ROH World Championship this Friday.

Moxley ended his appearance by introducing hometown star and AEW TNT Champion Wardlow before exiting the ring.

Details On Who Pushed For Jon Moxley vs. CM Punk On AEW Dynamite, Talent Meeting Scheduled

A planned match for AEW All Out has reportedly been nixed because of the suspension of Eddie Kingston.

According to Fightful Select, the company had originally planned a match between the Mad King and Sammy Guevara for the upcoming PPV. Rumor among talent is that the two AEW stars developed real life heat that turned into a shoot ‘altercation’ after some remarks from Guevara.

The word is that Sammy made a comment about the physique of Kingston and in turn, Eddie took a swing at him. Though these reports have not been confirmed by anyone who might have witnessed the incident. Eddie Kingston was then suspended from the company for a brief period. Fightful has since heard that he has already completed the suspension but they haven’t been able to confirm it with the officials.

Update: Dave Meltzer of F4Wonline has confirmed that Kingston was actually secretly suspended a few weeks ago and the suspension is already over. The promotion also shot an angle during the August 10 Rampage tapings where Guevara accepted a challenge for All Out. Eddie then appeared on the video screen and said that he would do what Guevara and Conti did – take a vacation.

This exchange was taped but it never made it to TV, and no reference to the All Out match has been made since then. This might be another indication that the bout has been nixed. In the absence of Kingston, the feud has continued. Sammy Guevara and Tay Conti faced Ortiz and Ruby Soho during the latest AEW Rampage tapings.

• Eddie Kingston Breaks Silence On His AEW Suspension

Eddie Kingston last competed for AEW during the July 20 episode of Dynamite. He lost to Chris Jericho in a barbed wire death match. AEW management have not yet commented on the reports of Kingston’s suspension or the backstage altercation. We will keep you posted about any development in the story.

AEW is still dealing with the ramifications of CM Punk getting injured right after his AEW world title victory, and now another champion has gotten injured.

The current AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa announced in a backstage segment tonight that she won’t be able to defend her title at the upcoming All Out PPV and an interim champion will be crowned at the show:

“I for today have to step down as the Women’s World Champion. I’m no longer able to defend the Championship due to an injury. So on September 4, at All Out, there will be a new interim world champion.”

Get well soon, champ ??@thunderrosa22 steps down as AEW Women's World Champion due to injury #AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/ZTPAlMdJi9

— AEW on TV (@AEWonTV) August 25, 2022

Though Rosa later claimed that this injury will not stop her from getting better. She is going to come back stronger and with a bigger chip on her shoulder.

Is Thunder Rosa’s Injury Real?

There were speculations about this injury being a work after this sudden announcement but Sean Ross Sapp confirmed that it’s not the case:

Legit https://t.co/2Xx7MHGiyq

— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) August 25, 2022

AEW has since announced a fatal four-way match among Toni Storm, Britt Baker, Jamie Hayter, and Hikaru Shida to crown the Interim Women’s Champion at All Out.

There is no word yet on what kind of injury Thunder Rosa is dealing with. So it’s hard to say how long she’ll stay out of action.

Stay tuned for more updates on her health.

The war of words between Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay continued after tonight’s episode of Dynamite from Cleveland, OH went off air.

The main event of tonight’s show saw The United Empire facing The Death Triangle in a first-round match of the AEW Trios Championship tournament.

The match was won by Ospreay and his partners. After the bout, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks came on stage, and the two teams had a stare-down to end the show.

After the show went off air, The Cleaner took on a mic and started taking shots at the NJPW star. Will responded to this by claiming that he has done everything Omega has done, just better.

Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay

Kenny Omega then mentioned Will Ospreay’s loss to Kazuchika Okada. He claimed that nobody even remembers all the 5 star matches Ospreay has had:

“You lost to Okada. Big deal, I’ve lost to Okada too, but I’ve also beaten Okada on the biggest stage of them all, something you could never do.

And guess what? The match that I’m talking about Will? That’s the one everybody calls the best of all time, something that no one says about your matches. In fact, no one can even remember your matches Will.”

The two teams came face to face at the ringside towards the end of this segment, but they ultimately refrained from fighting each other.

The United Empire and The Elite will get the chance to settle this rivalry when they meet in the semi-finals of the ongoing tournament.

• AEW Dynamite Results (8/24/22): Jon Moxley Destroys CM Punk, Trios Tournament, Ricky Starks

CM Punk is shutting down “bullshit” rumors about him and says he’s more than content in All Elite Wrestling.

Punk has been the subject of much discussion over the last week following his “unplanned” promo on Adam Page on AEW Dynamite. It led to rumors that Punk had been showing his displeasure backstage just a year after joining the company in dramatic fashion last summer.

Some speculate that Tony Khan and AEW are leveraging the buzz about “backstage drama” to generate interest in the product.

As for Punk, he isn’t shy of discussing the matter. The champ recently sat down with Sports Illustrated to promote his world title unification matchup with Jon Moxley at AEW Dynamite in Cleveland, a match that was originally set for ALL OUT.

When talking about his reported displeasure, Punk addresses internet rumors & social media. He’s focused and appreciates that AEW gave him a second chance to do what he’s great at.

“You try not to put too much stock in internet rumors. But for AEW, I definitely think that’s part of our audience. Twitter’s not real life, though. On top of that, a lie makes its way around the world twice before the truth puts his boots on or gets out of bed.”

“If I addressed every rumor, I’d be here all day. I love AEW. It’s not a competition of who loves it more or who’s the heart and soul, or who’s this and who’s that. AEW allowed me a second chance to do what I do best, and that’s professionally wrestle.”

– CM Punk (Sports Illustrated)

Come Talk With Me

Punk makes it clear that his locker room door is never closed. If anybody has a problem with him, or feel like sending fake news to wrestling journalists, to talk with him personally.

“It’s one side of the story. My locker room is never closed. It’s always open. Anybody who wants to DM Meltzer some bulls— can come talk to me about it. It’s not macho, stupid bulls—. I’m an adult. Come talk with me.”

Punk vs. Moxley

Finally Punk hypes up his showdown with the Purveyor of Violence, which many are calling one of the most important matches in AEW’s short history.

“I don’t want to let the team down, but I don’t want to reinjure myself. I told my wife, my surgeon, and Tony [Khan] that I’m in a rush to be healthy, not in a rush to get back. Whereas, in the past, two weeks after knee surgery, it was, ‘I’ll owe you one, pal. We need you to do this match.’ I didn’t feel comfortable about that. I feel 100% testing my limits on Dynamite.”

Check out our article explaining why Moxley vs. Punk is much more than a title match right here.

The August 24th edition of AEW Dynamite aired live from the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The AEW Champion CM Punk will battle Interim Champion Jon Moxley to determine the Undisputed AEW Champion.

AEW Dynamite Results

• Jay Lethal def. Dax Harwood
• Colten Gunn def. Billy Gunn
• Britt Baker def. KiLynn King
• Jon Moxley def. CM Punk to become Undisputed AEW Champion
• Will Ospreay & Aussie Open def. Death Triangle to advance in the Trios Tournament

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Chris Jericho vs. Bryan Danielson Set For AEW All Out

Chris Jericho made his way to the ring as the crowd sang “Judas” by Fozzy. Jericho introduced Daniel Garcia as a future champion and his protege. Garcia lost to Bryan Danielson in a 2 out of 3 Falls match last week. He went to shake Bryan’s hand but Jericho attacked Danielson from behind.

Garcia made his way to the ring as the crowd chanted “you’re a wrestler!” at him and Jericho shouted at them to shut up. Chris claimed that the crowd doesn’t understand the bond they have. Jericho noted that Garcia lost in a classic match against Bryan Danielson last week and probably just put his hands on him due to frustration.

Daniel told Jericho that Danielson was his hero and he hung with him in the ring for thirty minutes last week. He added that he always dreamt of having matches like that while he was a kid and hoped it inspired a young fan at home. Daniel shouted at Jericho for ruining the moment for him when Danielson extended his hand as a sign of respect.

Chris called Daniel Garcia the greatest technical “sports entertainer” and the crowd erupted in a “you’re a wrestler!”. Jericho began demanding that Garcia say he’s a sports entertainer before Bryan Danielson interrupted.

Danielson said that Jericho was trying to bully him into being a sports entertainer and told Garcia he’s a wrestler. Chris once again shouted that he’s a sports entertainer before Garcia interrupted.

He told Jericho to leave him alone and Chris grabbed at him. Daniel shoved Jericho down and the crowd erupted as Bryan Danielson laughed. The crowd broke out in a “you deserve it!” chant. Daniel Garcia exited the ring and made his way backstage.

Bryan Danielson said he’s not the biggest fan of sports entertainment, but that was pretty funny. Chris stated that people keep telling him that he’s the best wrestler in the world and doesn’t see it. Jericho referred to himself as the last survivor of Stu Hart’s dungeon and is The Lionheart.

Danielson wondered if they were able to ask Stu Hart, Owen Hart “who is the better wrestler Lionheart Chris Jericho or The American Dragon Bryan Danielson?”. Bryan challenged Chris to a match tonight but Jericho said he will face him at All Out. Chris warned Danielson to watch his back and Jake Hager attacked from behind to end the segment.

Is Daniel Garcia a Sports Entertainer or not?? #AEWDynamite is LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/PRjuxPmZQh

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

"You're a WRESTLER." Bryan Danielson tells Daniel Garcia here on #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/qdSX1gznmb

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Jay Lethal Stole A Victory

Dax Harwood battled Jay Lethal in the first match of tonight’s Dynamite. Jay controlled the action early and beat Dax down in the corner of the ring. Harwood battled back and unloaded some chops to Lethal’s chest. Dax connected with a Back Body Drop and then stomped on Jay’s hand.

When Dynamite returned from a break, Dax hit Jay with three German Suplexes in a row. Jay got Dax in the Figure Four but Harwood was able to reach the ropes to quickly break the hold. Lethal tried to apply the move again but Hartwood blocked it. Dax then went for the Sharpshooter but Jay booted him away.

Harwood rolled Jay up for a near fall. Jay went for a Cutter but Harwood countered into a springboard Liger Bomb but Lethal somehow was able to kick out at the last moment. Harwood locked in the Sharpshooter in the middle of the ring but Sonjay Dutt hopped on the ring apron for a distraction.

Harwood knocked him down and rolled up Jay for a two count. Dax hit a Crossbody for yet another near fall as the crowd applauded the efforts of both stars. Dax hit Jay with a couple of uppercuts but Lethal rolled him up. Jay grabbed the tights for leverage and escaped with a pinfall victory. After the match, Sonjay Dutt announced that FTR and Wardlow will be facing their friends Motor City Machine Guns and Jay Lethal at AEW All Out.

Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley/Chris Sabin) have just been revealed as Jay Lethal's tag team partners against TNT Champion Wardlow & FTR at #AEWAllOut Sun. Sept 4th LIVE on PPV!

Tune in NOW to #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/LF7c8nXF1E

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Thunder Rosa Is Injured

Incredibly, yet another injury has occurred in All Elite Wrestling. Thunder Rosa announced that she’s out with injury in a backstage interview with Tony Schiavone. There will be a match to determine another Interim Champion at All Out.

BREAKING NEWS: #AEW Women's World Champion Thunder Rosa announces that she is injured and cannot defend the championship.

Tune in NOW to #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS pic.twitter.com/fxX6z7yW0b

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Colten Gunn def. Billy Gunn

Billy Gunn battled his son, Colten Gunn, tonight on Dynamite. Billy controlled the action early as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

Accompanied by his brother Austin Gunn, Colten Gunn is ready to face his father Billy Gunn here on #AEWDynamite! We are LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/OWnUEF1yHJ

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

When Dynamite returned, Billy was in control the match. Stokely Hathaway attacked Max Caster from behind. Austin sent Bowens into the steel steps as Colten hit his dad with a low blow. Colten followed it up with a Neckbreaker for the pinfall victory. Stokely entered the ring and handed the Gunn Club his business card.

Gunn Club got in some shots before AEW Tag Team Champions Swerve Strickland and Keith Lee showed up. Gunn Club scampered away through the crowd as the champs helped The Acclaimed and Billy Gunn to their feet to end the segment.

Swerve in Our Glory later offered The Acclaimed at title shot at All Out and they accepted.

AEW World Tag Team Champions #SwerveInOurGlory loves #TheAcclaimed offering them a shot at the Tag Team Titles!

Tune in NOW to #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/yUe6ZOpbkW

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Magnificent. #AEWDynamite #AEWonTBS @Bowens_Official ?? @RealBillyGunn pic.twitter.com/2rcOLpBpvP

— TDE Wrestling (@tde_gif) August 25, 2022

Britt Baker Picked Up A Win, Hikaru Shida Returned, Title Match Announced For All Out

Britt Baker battled KiLynn King tonight on Dynamite. Britt dominated the match early and sent King into the ring post. Baker reigned down some elbows to the face and rolled KiLynn up for a two count. KiLynn got in some offense but Britt took back control and won the match via submission after applying the Lockjaw in the middle of the ring. Britt Baker cut a promo after the match and was interrupted by Toni Storm.

Jamie Hayter and Rebel attacked from behind as Britt posed with a terrible towel (Pittsburgh Steelers) in Cleveland. Hikaru Shida returned with a kendo stick in hand and rushed the ring. The heels retreated to end the segment.

Toni Storm, Dr. Britt Baker, Hikaru Shida, Jamie Hayter will compete in a Fatal 4-Way at AEW All Out to crown the interim champion.

Lockjaw applied and Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D forces KiLynn King to submit! #AEWDynamite is LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/3Giu46w5R8

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Jon Moxley Dominated CM Punk To Become The Undisputed Champion

CM Punk and Jon Moxley battled for the Undisputed AEW Championship to begin the 2nd hour of Dynamite. The fans broke out in dueling “lets go Moxley!” and “CM Punk!” chants as the two circled each other. Jon beat the hell out of Punk in the corner and taunted him to start off the match.

CM Punk responded with a flurry of punches and knees in the corner of the ring. Moxley hit a headbutt but turned around into a kick to the head from Punk. The AEW Champion grabbed his injured foot in pain and dropped to the canvas. Moxley unloaded a Clothesline and a flurry of elbows to CM Punk’s head. Moxley wrenched on Punk’s foot and planted him with the Deathrider. Moxley posed for the crowd and delivered another one for the pinfall victory. Punk was then helped up the entrance ramp and brought backstage.

Jon Moxley cut a backstage promo and said “is that not how you thought it would go?”. Moxley said that there is only one Jon Moxley and nobody can do what he does. Jon added that his time is now to close the promo.

https://twitter.com/tapemachines/status/1562608252570873857?s=20&t=D8Qguto1wGC1YO-GvR8tyw

First words from the UNDISPUTED #AEW World Champion, Jon Moxley!

Tune in NOW to #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS pic.twitter.com/2UA73kAMux

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

The ONLY champion! @JonMoxley #AEWDynamite #AEWonTBS pic.twitter.com/Fx5UtceWRW

— TDE Wrestling (@tde_gif) August 25, 2022

UNDISPUTED #AEW WORLD CHAMPION JON MOXLEY! It’s #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/CNHoCjaAqK

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Ricky Starks vs. Powerhouse Hobbs Set For All Out

Ricky marched to the ring and noted that he had a friend who called him every day after he broke his neck. Starks noted that Powerhouse Hobbs wanted Ricky to do well, but has become jealous. Starks added that he took Hobbs from being Britt Baker’s bodyguard and gave him the spotlight. Ricky got pissed and shouted that he called Hobbs his friend, but no more. Starks challenged Hobbs to a match at All Out and exited the ring.

Ricky Starks, in an extremely emotional state here on #AEWDynamite, challenges former friend and teammate #PowerhouseHobbs to a fight on Sunday September 4 at #AEWAllOut! Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/tPqYq151O6

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Will Ospreay & Aussie Open Advanced In The Trios Tournament

Will Osreay & Aussie Open (Kyle Fletcher, Mark Davis) squared off against Death Triangle (PAC, Rey Fenix, Pentagon Jr.) in the first round of the Trios Tournament in tonight’s main event. Best Friends and Orange Cassidy were shown in the crowd watching the match. Rey Fenix and Will Ospreay started off the match. Fenix went for a Cutter but Ospreay blocked it with a handstand.

The action spilled out of the ring and Death Triangle took control with a trio of dives. Back in the ring, Fenix hit Ospreay with some chops to the chest. Fenix followed it up with a Splash for a two count before tagging in All-Atlantic Champion PAC.

PAC hit some more chops and tagged in Pentagon Jr. Penta hit Ospreay with even more chops to the chest and Will collapsed to his knees. When Dynamite returned, Fenix sent Aussie Open to the mat with a Crossbody. Penta followed it up with a Crucifix Bomb and Fletcher rolled out of the ring as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

.@ReyFenixMx and @PENTAELZEROM heating up! #AEWDynamite #AEWonTBS pic.twitter.com/wnkyqWFhiz

— TDE Wrestling (@tde_gif) August 25, 2022

When Dynamite returned, PAC connected with a German Suplex and bridged into the cover but Ospreay kicked out at two. Aussie Open and Lucha Bros then traded punches in the middle of the ring. Penta and Rey hit a couple of Superkicks. Ospreay and PAC both connected with a double Poisonrana and had a stare down.

Will hit a Dropkick but PAC shrugged it off. Both men battled to the top turnbuckle and the All-Atlantic Champion connected with a ridiculous Brainbuster off the top rope as Dynamite went to the final commercial break of the night.

When Dynamite returned, Ospreay went for Storm Breaker but PAC reversed into a Hurricanrana for a near fall.PAC connected with a massive DDT and made his way back to the top turnbuckle. Pac was about to go for the Black Arrow but Fletcher dragged him to the to the outside.

PAC saw Kip Sabian with a box over his head and ripped it off. It was some dude with tape over his mouth and Sabian attacked PAC from behind. Ospreay and Aussie Open isolated Fenix and beat him down. Will hit his Cutter finisher for the pinfall victory. Will Ospreay and Aussie Open advanced in the Trios Tournament. The Elite (Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks) made their way to the entrance ramp for a stare down to end the show.

Kip Sabian assaults PAC! Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS right now! pic.twitter.com/FLp44E9vEt

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

Will Ospreay and #AussieOpen have advanced in the #AEW World Trios Championship Tournament, and they will meet Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks next week in the Dynamite Finals! Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/gyWnWl1pL8

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 25, 2022

AEW World Champion CM Punk will battle AEW Interim Champion Jon Moxley tonight on Dynamite to determine the Undisputed Champion. All signs were pointing to this match happening at All Out early next month but it was surprisingly booked for tonight’s show.

Here are 4 reasons CM Punk versus Jon Moxley for the AEW Championship is more than just a title match:

The Company Needs Some Momentum

AEW Dynamite has flatlined in the ratings just below 1 million viewers, but thankfully they have an established and loyal audience that tunes in every week. The issue is that AEW President Tony Khan has spent a ton on contracts for ex-WWE talent that haven’t really made a huge difference yet in regards to attracting the casual fan.

It is hard to get invested in some of the talent when they are only featured once a month on television. Wardlow capturing the TNT Championship should have felt more important by now. He finally was able to rid himself of MJF and capture some gold, so why he is in a 6-man tag at the PPV?

The TNT Champion is wrapped up in a storyline with Sonjay Dutt, Jay Lethal, and Satnam Singh. ROH Tag Team Champions and forever #1 contenders in AEW without getting a title shot, FTR, will be joining teaming up with Wardlow to battle the trio of heels at All Out. The match will likely be entertaining but it feels like an egregious missed opportunity for both the Wardlow and FTR to be in bigger storylines.

CM Punk versus Jon Moxley needs to deliver tonight in order to get people talking about how exciting All Elite Wrestling is again. Many fans are scratching their head and wondering what is going on at the moment. These two should have a long feud with a story, with weeks of promos and attacks, not a rushed title match to pop a rating. However, if tonight’s show is newsworthy and gets people talking about the product over the drama backstage, then maybe it was worth it.

Jon Moxley vs. CM Punk. #AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/DrGNknZCjI

— JJ Williams (@JJWilliamsWON) August 23, 2022

Fan Perception Has Changed

All Elite Wrestling arrived as the cool kid in the wrestling industry, while Vince McMahon’s vision for professional wrestling felt dated and borderline unwatchable at times. None of that applies anymore, just a month after Vince departed the company and his son-in-law, Triple H, has taken over as Head of Creative.

WWE has not only turned the page, but they’ve also flipped the script. They are now the cool company in the wrestling industry that talent is signing with. It is stunning how quickly the perception surrounding WWE has changed, despite unprecedented chaos at the top of the company over the summer.

Nowadays, AEW feels dated in comparison. The Jericho Appreciation Society refers to themselves as “sports entertainers” while Drew McIntyre is dropping the word “wrestler” in his promos on RAW. At this point, AEW is parodying itself and not the competition.

“I don’t care if you’re a prize fighter, a sports entertainer or superstar. We’re wrestlers in a wrestling ring. Let’s just freaking wrestle.”

This Drew McIntyre promo was special ?

(via @WWE)pic.twitter.com/9i4kjXr8JR

— B/R Wrestling (@BRWrestling) August 16, 2022

Talent Getting In Each other’s Way

Before his promo with Jon Moxley on last week’s Dynamite, the AEW Champion bizarrely called out Hangman Adam Page in his home state of West Virginia. He sat in the ring in his iconic pose and challenged Hangman to a rematch. The 43-year-old captured the AEW Championship from Hangman at Double or Nothing, only to break his foot the following Wednesday and go on the shelf for two months.

CM Punk gave Adam a few moments to come to the ring before uttering “that isn’t cowboy sh*t, that is coward sh*t”. It was an odd moment, but most people moved on when Moxley showed up. However, the incident was reportedly unplanned and Punk acted on his own to give Hangman a “receipt” for a perceived slight during a previous promo between the two.

Something just always seems to go awry now. Jonathan Gresham flipping out before Death Before Dishonor due to lack of communication from management, Tony’s unprofessional response to Big Swole, Cody Rhodes exiting the company, and the whole MJF thing, Why are Miro and Andrade liking tweets hinting at their unhappiness? It is always something, at least at least it appears that way.

During the post-Double or Nothing media scrum after CM Punk won the title, he said the following about AEW in comparison to WWE:”It felt like 10 years of fighting silly battles and standing on my own d*ck. I feel there’s no limitation put on myself or anybody, the sky’s the limit.” He’s used that phrase multiple times in reference to WWE.

That seems to contradict Fightful’s report of Punk telling management that he would not lose to Hangman Page. From the outside looking in, it appears AEW is repeatedly standing on themselves at the moment.

“Nobodies standing on their own dick. They just let stuff happen.”

– CM Punk on the difference between WWE and AEW pic.twitter.com/LVc4NmtLJX

— JTEonYT (@JTEonYT) August 21, 2021

The Possible Return Of An Unlikely Hero

One of the possible reasons that the title match may have been moved up was because the promotion has a better main event planned for AEW All Out. If MJF returned, the company would have the majority of its stars back and the shows would instantly improve. MJF is an immense talent, a picture-perfect heel.

He delivered one of the most memorable promos of any promotion, in any time period, and the man is only 26 years old. The Dynamite following his loss to Wardlow at Double or Nothing, not too many people were discussing the match or even the victorious Wardlow. MJF skipped out a signing during the PPV weekend and reportedly booked a flight out of Vegas. Thankfully, cahooler heads prevailed and he did the job to Wardlow. The distraction still sullied the TNT Champion’s moment and he hasn’t fully recovered.

After MJF’s pipebomb promo, Punk tried to confront MJF but he left through the crowd at The Forum in Los Angeles, and that was the last time he appeared on television. He’s also gone completely dark on social media. If he returns tonight it will inject some much-needed life into the product just a couple of weeks out from All Out. Somehow, MJF has managed to become an even bigger star in the company without even appearing on television.

That MJF promo in (almost) its full glory.

For those looking to relive it.pic.twitter.com/n0O4a7bELn

— NukemTalksWrestling (@NukemWrestling) June 2, 2022

AEW surprised many fans when they announced that World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk and Interim World Champion Jon Moxley would collide in an undisputed title bout on tonight’s episode of Dynamite instead of saving it for the All Out pay-per-view event in Chicago next Sunday. 

Moxley vs. Punk

Fightful Select reports that sources indicated “Moxley was in favor of the move, and one source even indicated that it was his idea and pitch, and All Elite Wrestling went with it.”

One source noted that Punk eventually agreed to it. It’s unclear if this was connected to any of the reported issues with Punk last week. 

Grapsody’s Will Washington noted that he’d heard there was an idea in play a few days before to increase ticket sales and add buzz to the Cleveland show. The decision was not the original plan, and “multiple plans” for AEW All Out had changed.

All Elite Wrestling has still yet to confirm what the main event will be for All Out. 

Mandatory Talent Meeting 

Fightful also reported that AEW will be holding a mandatory talent meeting at Dynamite in Cleveland, OH with company president Tony Khan in attendance. 

Talent does expect management to address “the rumors of unrest, contract inquiries, and personal issues, as well as those things being leaked.”

As previously reported, Tony Schiavone dismissed that there is a lot of backstage tension in the promotion by calling the reports bulls**t.

Former NWA president Howard Brody has passed away.

PWInsider has reported that Brody passed shortly after undergoing a quadruple bypass surgery. Brody unfortunately caught an infection after the surgery which eventually led to his passing.

Brody promoted numerous professional wrestling shows throughout the United States, as well as internationally. He was also the head of the Ring Warriors promotion and TV series alongside Hiro Matsuda. Brody also helped nearly bring New Japan Pro Wrestling to Saturday morning TV syndication in the U.S.

Ring Warriors was among the first professional wrestling shows on the internet to be downloaded and viewed. He was also the first professional wrestling promoter to bring pro wrestling to China with MACW in 2003. Brody also helped ECW expand into Florida along with Dory and Marti Funk.

He served as president of NWA from 1996 to 2001, helping bring the brand back from near extinction via an agreement reached with WWF to use their name. The deal also allowed Jeff Jarrett and others to appear as NWA personalities on Monday Night RAW.

Brody helped shape NWA into what it has become today, as it continues to grow, make strides, and create numerous stars in the professional wrestling community.

The rebranding of NXT last year was surrounded by many wild speculations. One such rumor was that Bruce Prichard was heading the brand and he was writing the shows.

The WWE executive recently returned to his Something To Wrestle With podcast after undergoing surgery for a torn rotator cuff in June.

Among other things, he also addressed the rumors about his involvement with NXT. Prichard claimed that he has never written an episode of the development show ever.

“I do have to say, because it’s something people, even internally, have come to me with and made comments about…that I was writing NXT. I never said a word. You know what else I never did? I never wrote one NXT show in the history of my existence.”

– Bruce Prichard

Prichard also commented on Shawn Michaels’ leading the brand. He said that HBK has done a tremendous job of grabbing NXT by the horns.

Apart from this, the wrestling veteran commented on the management change in WWE. He called it an exciting time and explained that he chooses to love his life.

WWE rebranded the development brand to NXT 2.0 in September last year. Shawn Michaels took over the duties of Triple H in the absence of The Game, and he has since received a new title in WWE.

• Bruce Prichard’s Mount Rushmore of Wrestling Promoters

Quotes via Fightful

Since AEW launched in 2019, fans of the All-Elite promotion have been hoping for a video game akin to WWE’s 2K series.

While AEW has had two mobile games, ‘AEW Elite General Manager’ and ‘AEW Casino: Double or Nothing,’ the promotion has yet to have a console video game.

Fans and gamers alike are excited for the upcoming console game ‘AEW: Fight Forever’ which is scheduled to release on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch.

• Pre-Order AEW Fight Forever Now from Amazon

New Gameplay Footage

Features

This week, Evil Uno and Colt Cabana were at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, and gave a ton of new information.

The pair confirmed a “deep career mode” which will see players go “on the road” with AEW in this mode and select a manager as well.

Mixed-gender matches are possible. Wrestlers can also be placed in matches against themselves. CPU vs CPU matches will also be possible.

Online play was referred to as “a big part” of AEW: Fight Forever.

The Game will feature a lot of customization, with entrances, ring attire, and arenas being changeable to the player’s desire.

Gameplay

The game’s controls are similar to past wrestling games with strike, grapple, strong strike, and strong grapple options by a series of different buttons.

Blocking and reversals are performed by using the left and right bumper buttons.

Kick-outs and escaping submissions are done through button-mashing as opposed to mini-games, as have been seen in WWE’s 2K series.

There are 40 different weapons that are useable in the game which the wrestlers can grab from under the ring. 

Extra Information

While it has been reported that AEW is looking at getting the game out by the end of year, neither Cabana nor Uno confirmed a date.

“In the future sometime,” “soonish” and “stay tuned” were all responses given when asked about a release date.

The game is rated 16+, in part due to the inclusion of blood.

It was confirmed that original music from The Acclaimed’s Max Caster will be in the game.

Tony Khan confirms there are issues between CM Punk and Hangman Page.

The All Elite Wrestling (AEW) president confirmed during an appearance on Busted Open Radio that there is “unresolved anger” between the pair. Seemingly due to something from their match at Double Or Nothing.

It’s unresolved anger, I think, from the world title match at Double or Nothing, and we had not really tied up all of those issues. CM Punk made one appearance to wrestle after Double or Nothing and then it was immediately after that, that he got injured and was forced to step away. So there was clearly some stuff that never got resolved at Double or Nothing.” 

Tony Khan on CM Punk & Hangman Page’s Relationship

Legitimate Heat

Punk made some unscripted comments about Page last week on AEW Dynamite. The AEW World Champion challenged Page to a World Title match right on the spot, before calling him a coward for not coming out. He then moved on to cutting a promo on Jon Moxley.

Prior to the show, Punk reportedly had a meeting with Khan about the ordeal. There were even reports that Punk was considering not showing up to Dynamite at all.

While his on-screen rivalry with Page seems to be done with, the issues between the pair backstage are still very much alive.

Punk is currently slated to face Jon Moxley in an AEW World Title unification bout on tonight’s episode of Dynamite.

Why is Punk vs. Moxley taking place on Dynamite?

Tony Khan also addressed the surprising news that Punk vs. Moxley will take place on AEW Dynamite instead of at All Out.

“It’s a great match for the fans now and I feel like it would be a great match at any time,” said Khan. “But tonight, it felt like the right night for this big fight, and given that last week, we really could not keep these guys apart, it just did not seem sustainable to try and have this show get taken down week after week by these guys who were clearly just going to tear the ring apart if we continued this way.”

Khan said we are going to have a much clearer picture of the AEW All Out card after tonight’s Dynamite.

Last week, WWE announced the launch of NXT Europe, which will come at the expense of NXT UK. 

The UK brand will go on what’s being called a “brief hiatus” after next month’s Worlds Collide event. 

Not long after the announcement, WWE released several performers from NXT UK. 

Regal Reacts

Between this hiatus and the mass release of talent, many believe that NXT UK is finished for good. 

One name who was a large part of NXT UK, especially during the early days, was William Regal. 

Speaking on his Gentleman Villain podcast, Regal said that he’s known for years that NXT Europe was the long-term plan (via Wrestling Inc.)

“For the last several years NXT Europe was in process … Things changed in the last year and different things, but now, things have changed again and things are back on track … I don’t work there and I don’t ask, but the expansion of NXT was going to happen. I was personally working on that for the last seven or eight years until January.”

“The expansion of NXT was going to happen. I was personally working on that.”

William Regal on NXT Europe and the end of NXT UK.

Addressing the mass releases last week, Regal said that being cut does not mean they can’t come back as part of NXT Europe, adding that “everything was done for the right reasons.”

What’s next for NXT UK?

NXT UK may be done for good, but there are still some huge matches planned for those on the brand. 

During this week’s NXT 2.0, it was confirmed that NXT UK Champion Tyler Bate will face NXT Champion Bron Breakker at Worlds Collide in a title-unification match. 

It has also been confirmed that NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose, NXT UK Women’s Champion Meiko Satomura, and Blair Davenport will face off at Worlds Collide in a title-unification match. 

These matches which will see the NXT UK titles stop being used on TV, have only fueled the belief that NXT UK is done for good. 

William Regal Credits Vince McMahon with Saving His Life In 1999