WWE paired up Grayson Waller and Austin Theory to form A-Town Down Under, and that heel team is making a lot of noise. They are also responsible for Kevin Owens’ recent injury, and they are not afraid to rub salt in the wound.

Kevin Owens will take on Austin Theory on the December 15th episode of WWE SmackDown in the current United States Title #1 contender tournament. That match could be a rough one for Theory, but he’s not making it any better for himself.

Grayson Waller and Austin Theory appeared in a backstage promo that was released online after the December 9th episode of SmackDown. 

During the video, Austin Theory broke out his uncanny “Stone Cold” Steve Austin impression, as he cut a promo on Kevin Owens while showing off a t-shirt that said “Grayson 3:16” on the front and “I Just Broke Your Hand” on the back.

“Grayson 3:16 son, why don’t you turn around and show ’em! Look at that, ‘I just broke your hand,’ son! Kevin Owens, we broke ya hand, ya ain’t got one no more! WHAT?! Grayson Waller’s gonna beat ya? WHAT?!  Austin Theory’s gonna beat ya? WHAT?! We broke ya hand! WHAT?!”

Austin Theory walked off as he busted out in a Steve Austin laugh, which caused Grayson Waller to shout, “What?!” as his partner exited the frame. The two are certainly taking digs at Kevin Owens, but they might need to be careful about invoking Steve Austin’s name like that.

What’s next for Steve Austin in WWE

WWE is not currently talking about bringing Steve Austin in for a CM Punk dream match at this time. Although that rumor hit the Internet Wrestling Community in a big way, it’s not being discussed. Although fans may not see Steve Austin actually return at this time, it’s still good to hear his voice via Austin Theory’s spot-on impression.

You can watch Austin Theory and Grayson Waller’s little backstage promo in the video below. 

Theory with the Stone Cold impression
#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/C39cpRqj3T

— Roman Reigns SZN ? (@reigns_era) December 9, 2023

Kevin Owens might not be able to utilize his KO punch right now due to his affliction, but there are still other ways that he is a very dangerous opponent. It will be interesting to see how Owens does in the United States Title tournament, as he has already teased having beef with Logan Paul.

You may check out the card for the December 15th episode of WWE SmackDown below. Keep checking back with SE Scoops for more!

December 15th, 2023 WWE SmackDown Card

Roman Reigns returns to SmackDown

Kevin Owens vs Austin Theory – 1st Round United States Title #1 Contender Tournament Match

Grayson Waller vs NXT Superstar – 1st Round United States Title #1 Contender Tournament Match

Will Kevin Owens beat Logan Paul for the United States Title after winning this tournament? Are you impressed by Austin Theory’s Steve Austin impression? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

WWE fans are very interested in CM Punk’s next move, as he carves out a new place for himself in the company’s storylines. The WWE Universe wants to see what CM Punk is going to do next in WWE, and they won’t have to wait long until his next big move. Tickets are also moving fast, because fans want to see him make that decision live.

CM Punk’s WWE comeback has made a notable impact on ticket sales. Punk’s surprise return at Survivor Series set the stage for an anticipated feud with World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. This was a feud that Punk strongly hinted at during the November 8th episode of WWE SmackDown.

Who will finish their story first? ?@CMPunk @CodyRhodes#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/W7ZMkZIL7s

— WWE (@WWE) December 9, 2023

Despite criticism that WWE cut CM Punk’s promo time during his last RAW appearance, fans are still very excited to see what he has to say next week. He will be on RAW next week to declare his new brand home, signing with either RAW or SmackDown. Punk also made a quip about how he is going to speak with Shawn Michaels about NXT.

For the upcoming December 11th episode of RAW, WWE has already advertised matches like Cody Rhodes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura and Drew McIntyre vs. Jey Uso, with more expected. Of course, CM Punk’s big decision will highlight the night.

WrestleTix reports that the December 11th episode of WWE RAW has already sold 8,283 tickets, with 916 still available for a setup of 9,199. Notably, in the last six days since WWE announced Punk’s appearance, 1,511 tickets were sold.

WWE Monday Night Raw, Mon Dec 11 at 7:30pm, Rocket Mortgage Field House, Cleveland, OH

Available Tickets => 916

Current Setup => 9,199

Tickets Distributed => 8,283

+1,511 since the last update (6 days ago). Big movement here. The upper decks have been opened up.

It was also noted that the last time WWE played the Rocket Mortgage Field House, on June 19th, 2023, they drew 10,495 fans. We will have to see if they are able to beat that number. That being said, their current setup for this time around doesn’t seem to be higher than their previous number.

CM Punk’s return has reignited fan interest and boosted ticket sales, confirming his influence in professional wrestling. Unlike in Albany for the December 4th RAW, where they moved a ton of tickets after Punk’s return, and he didn’t appear, the Second City Savior has been announced for the December 11th show.

Which WWE brand do you think CM Punk will sign with? Let us know what his decision should be by engaging with us on social media! 

WWE Superstars give their all in the ring, but they all have a personal life at home. Sadly, Baron Corbin didn’t have a great update to share recently, as he just suffered a great personal loss.

Baron Corbin is known for sharing glimpses of his personal life, whether it be his grilling exploits, or sharing a good cigar. He lives quite a good life after years of work in WWE, but the Lone Wolf’d most recent post was not a happy one.

Baron Corbin recently shared sad news on his Instagram. He posted about the passing of his cherished dog, Xander. He also included a caption that explained how Xander was not just a pet but a best friend, companion, and protector to Corbin and his family.

”Big man Xander left us yesterday and it has crushed our world. He was a best friend, companion, protector, pain in the butt, supportive, bed hog,funny, and so many more things but most of all he gave you unconditional love 24/7. Him and my children shared a bond like no other. We will all miss everything about him even his horrible breath when he liked your face. Hopefully where ever his spirit has gone they serve a5 steak bc he can be a little bougie. I could write and write and turn this into a novel about him, but I will just say thank you for being the best dog to us for nearly 10 yrs!!!! There will never be Another Xander!!”

The WWE free agent also included photos of Xander, resting, and getting lots of love as well. This was certainly an emotional post for Baron Corbin to share, especially on the eve of such an important match in his career.

Baron Corbin will face Ilja Dragunov for the NXT Championship at the NXT Deadline Premium Live Event on December 9th. Corbin plans to dedicate the match to his dog, Xander. We will have to see if he pulls down the big win for his old friend. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C0m0toQxd5r

We’re sending out our best to Baron Corbin, and his entire family. This must be a difficult time for Corbin, but he has a ton of memories of Xander to cherish for the rest of his life.

What’s your take on this sad update from Baron Corbin? Can you relate to his loss? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

The December 8th episode of WWE SmackDown was loaded with matches and promos. There were also some notable moments worth highlighting.

CM Punk cut a bit of a pipe bomb promo during SmackDown this week. During his time on the microphone, he called out Roman Reigns and also made reference to the backstage incident at All In that caused his AEW firing.

Charlotte Flair also needed to be helped out of the ring following her loss to Asuka. We’re hoping that The Queen isn’t seriously injured.

WWE’s Plan For December 15th SmackDown

Before the show closed this week, they confirmed a few things for the December 15th episode of WWE SmackDown on FOX. Roman Reigns will be back on the blue brand next week, so that will be a big draw. Only time will tell if he answers CM Punk’s call-out from this week. 

Roman Reigns returns to #SmackDown next week in Green Bay, WI. pic.twitter.com/xN9q7d7GZ1

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) December 9, 2023

Fans will also see Grayson Waller face off against an unnamed NXT Superstar in the 1st round of the United States Championship tournament. It was said that Shawn Michaels will hand-pick that Superstar. Also, Kevin Owens will battle Austin Theory in another 1st round match.

Kevin Owens has a broken hand, which they mentioned on commentary. That should add another layer to his match, because it nixes his infamous KO punch.

We will have to see who comes out on top when SmackDown goes live on FOX next week. For more updates, keep checking back with SE Scoops.

December 15th, 2023 WWE SmackDown Card

Roman Reigns returns to SmackDown

Kevin Owens vs Austin Theory – 1st Round United States Title Tournament Match

Grayson Waller vs NXT Superstar – 1st Round United States Title Tournament Match

What are you looking forward to most on SmackDown next week? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

WWE brought a loaded show for the December 8th episode of SmackDown. CM Punk shocked the world with a pipe bomb of a promo. Sadly, it appears that Charlotte Flair didn’t have quite as good of a night.

Charlotte Flair went after Asuka this week on SmackDown, but she had quite an uphill climb with Damage CTRL around. The two had a singles match, and that did not end well for Flair.

Flair needed to be helped out of the ring during WWE SmackDown according to multiple fans who were in attendance.

Real ugly spot toward the end, rushed to the finish. Charlotte Flair says “My knee” as she’s helped out of the ring. Seemed to hurt her neck, too. Just awful, wishing her the best. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/kjMFIyOQix

— Graham "GSM" Matthews (@WrestleRant) December 9, 2023

Here’s footage of Flair being helped backstage after the match:

Charlotte Flair getting walked back stage after her match. Looks like she got hurt frfr #Smackdown pic.twitter.com/5Bpb2LpwNN

— Swaggy Dr Kush (@SwaggyDrKush) December 9, 2023

How the injury occurred

The end of the match went down as Charlotte Flair looked for the Figure-8, but then Bayley emerged through the crowd. Flair ran over and knocked her off the apron. Bayley’s distraction allowed Asuka to secure the win. With a happy expression, Bayley exclaimed, “YES! I did that!” as Asuka celebrated her victory.

It appears this is the spot where the injury occured:

This is the unaired #SmackDown spot where Charlotte Flair apparently injured her knee #WWE #TributeToTheTroops #CharlotteFlair #WWESmackDown pic.twitter.com/mzwCNb6ARL

— Anutosh Bajpai || SEScoops || Wrestling News (@AuthorAnutosh) December 9, 2023

Of course, injuring Charlotte Flair was not the intended outcome of this match. We’re hoping that Charlotte Flair is okay. Keep checking back with SE Scoops for more updates.

What’s your take on Charlotte Flair and Asuka’s match during the 12/8 WWE SmackDown? You can also check out a video of Charlotte Flair being helped off this week. Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media.

CM Punk wasn’t expected to make a return to WWE at Survivor Series, but it happened anyway. He made his big return to the SmackDown brand for their December 8th episode, and it was quite an appearance for the Tribute to the Troops.

CM Punk opened up his promo by proclaiming that, since his promo was at the 9:00 PM EST hour, then he wouldn’t get his time cut. Then Punk brought up how Adam Pearce wants him to be exclusive to the RAW brand.

"He's not even THE MAN in his own household."

?????@CMPunk just went there! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/syMNV240Zi

— WWE (@WWE) December 9, 2023

After saying that he will leave his brand future to the fans, CM Punk asked if they want him to be a RAW Superstar, and they booed that idea. The fans cheered when Punk asked if he should join SmackDown instead.

CM Punk then said that it’s not about “what do you want to talk about,” it’s about “who do you want me to talk about?” Punk said he could tell some stories about Cody Rhodes, but then he directed his focus to “someone who’s never here, Roman Reigns.”

"…I begin MY journey of finishing MY story and that means one thing…

MAIN EVENTING WRESTLEMANIA!" ??????@CMPunk just put EVERYONE on notice. He's back. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/T74lrY6Fkr

— WWE (@WWE) December 9, 2023

Mentioning Roman Reigns’ name brought a huge pop from the WWE Universe, as he said that he was the OG Paul Heyman Guy. Punk gave a shout-out to Jey Uso, but then he suggested that he stick around SmackDown to scrap with Jimmy Uso, “but Jimmy Uso has endless cousins.”

Best In the World!: CM Punk Makes WWE Return At Survivor Series 2023

This is when CM Punk made a crack about his All In confrontation with Jack Perry. He made his way there by saying that he and Kevin Owens are too much alike, after suggesting that he may have a match with him.

“I don’t know how comfortable I’d feel about working with someone who randomly punches people backstage … I mean it’s 2023, you just can’t be doing that, that’s insane.”

This was followed by some massive CM Punk chants from the crowd. Then CM Punk drew attention to Seth Rollins, by calling him out as he somewhat encouraged the crowd to sing his theme song.

"I don't know who would feel comfortable working with somebody who randomly just punches people in the face backstage…" ?@FightOwensFight, you can't be doing that. ?@CMPunk #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/Rhld9Zahde

— WWE (@WWE) December 9, 2023

CM Punk will make a decision about his brand future on the 12/11 episode of WWE RAW. Punk said it’s not about finishing his story, it’s about finishing what he started.

After hyping up the crowd with his promo, CM Punk made it clear that his goal is to main event WrestleMania 40. He dropped the mic after that, as the fans cheered on the Second City Savior.

What’s your take on CM Punk’s latest promo? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

CM Punk’s return to WWE sent shockwaves throughout the pro wrestling world. WWE fans were more than excited to welcome the Second City Savior back, and he will grace the SmackDown brand this week for their December 8th episode. Now we have a bit of a spoiler about what they are planning for this week.

WWE has a lot of plans in motion, and they are shifting some things after CM Punk’s arrival. A huge name like his will certainly carve out a substantial spot for himself on the WrestleMania 40 card.

Wrestle Votes noted that CM Punk is set to really amp up his WrestleMania direction on the December 8th episode of WWE SmackDown. It was noted that Punk will cut a promo, but it wasn’t spoiled who the target will be.

I’m told CM Punk’s in ring segment tonight on SmackDown will focus on his desire to “main event” WrestleMania 40. It’s clobbering time….

CM Punk never got that WrestleMania main event match during his last run in WWE. He may have returned during the perfect time to capture that WrestleMania moment for himself in 2024. 

CM Punk has garnered praise since his return to WWE. Even Jey Uso said that Punk is on “a Tribal Chief status” in his reaction to Punk’s comeback. Fans have stood behind Punk, and they have also bought a ton of merchandise. 

CM Punk is a free agent, so that gives WWE the freedom to have him float between main roster brands. All signs point to Punk mixing it up with Seth Rollins on RAW first, but fans may see some very important WrestleMania seeds planted on WWE SmackDown this week. 

I’m told CM Punk’s in ring segment tonight on SmackDown will focus on his desire to “main event” WrestleMania 40. It’s clobbering time….

— WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) December 8, 2023

What’s your take on CM Punk appearing on WWE SmackDown this week? Are you watching the show live? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

WWE is on the long road to the Royal Rumble on January 27th, and you never know who may show up. Fans might see a familiar face on SmackDown this week, because a WWE Hall of Famer is around who has been known to mix things up.

A former WWE Champion is present backstage at today’s WWE Smackdown in Providence, Rhode Island. It was reported on Fightful Select that Corey Brennan has learned that former WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield is at the show. 

As of this writing, “It’s unclear as of now whether or not he’ll appear on-screen.” JBL hasn’t been around the WWE main roster in a while, but you never know if he could start a new run with the company. Even if he’s just around to visit, JBL is always welcome backstage in WWE. 

JBL was paired up with Baron Corbin earlier this year, and they had a nice run as a duo. As much as he tried, JBL wasn’t able to make a champion out of Corbin. That partnership ended, and JBL really rubbed salt in the wound upon his exit. 

JBL last appeared on WWE programming on November 21, announcing the qualifiers for the Iron Survivor Challenge for NXT Deadline. That was a nice treat to see JBL on NXT television. Lita, Mick Foley and Jerry Lawler also appeared in those segments to announce Iron Survivor Challenge qualifier matches.

We will have to see if JBL shows up on WWE SmackDown this week. We will have coverage of the show, here at SE Scoops. 

What’s your take on JBL showing up backstage at SmackDown this week? Do you want to see more from him on WWE programming? Let us know what you think in the comments section! 

AEW has a lot of things going on, and Tony Khan has delegated responsibility to people he trusts to execute the job. It appears that Bryan Danielson has a huge role backstage in AEW, one that really matters for those who want to ruffle feathers.

We previously reported that Mike Santana dropped a snarky post on X about getting fined. This happened right after he posted and deleted something about his absence from AEW television. It seems that Bryan Danielson was behind that fine.

Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that Bryan Danielson has taken on the role in AEW of monitoring talent’s social media activity. He is now responsible for handing out fines as well.

If someone poisons the social media water hole, Bryan Danielson is one of those responsible for laying down the law. Fightful Select reported last week that Danielson was effectively the face of the disciplinary committee in AEW, and that it extended to laying out fines when necessary.

Bryan Danielson is known for his limited presence on social media, but it is reported that he has played a role in imposing fines for social media behavior recently. The focus of these fines is on maintaining AEW’s professional image, which can include actions like retweets and likes. There is no information suggesting that fines are frequent.

The report also noted that Bryan Danielson has taken charge of various meetings, including discussions about CM Punk’s termination after AEW All In this year, addressing interview conduct earlier this year, and a talent meeting last year following the Brawl Out incident.

AEW officials are also reportedly enthusiastic about the Bryan Danielson vs. Daniel Garcia match. We will have to see how Bryan Danielson continues in the Continental Classic, as he continues wearing multiple hats for AEW.

https://twitter.com/bryandanielson/status/1733234323556639142

What’s your take on AEW putting Bryan Danielson in a position where he can issue fines to talent? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media!

WWE and AEW often run the same markets, but there was an issue with Tony Khan’s company booking a lot of the same venues at times. It appears that issue is in the past. 

In June, Dave Meltzer noted in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE was actively trying to prohibit their venues from booking AEW events. It was written:

“There is an interesting note that in arenas that do rent to both AEW and WWE, WWE has put clauses in its deals that AEW can’t run a certain number of weeks before or after the WWE show, and also that AEW and the arena can’t announce the show or sell tickets until after the WWE show has taken place.”

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter notes that WWE is no longer blocking AEW from running certain venues. The Coca Cola Coliseum in Toronto was cited as an example, because AEW just announced a show at that venue, despite the fact that WWE is running the same building. Dave Meltzer reports:

It is notable that the new owners are not as vigilant, or maybe because of the lawsuit, regarding AEW having dates get out and tickets put on sale in buildings they are running shows in. AEW announced its return to Toronto even though WWE has a show in the same Coca Cola Coliseum

WWE’s current antitrust lawsuit with MLW may have also played into the company altering their tactics. They used to have a much different mindset toward the idea of AEW running the same venues that they do.

Tony Khan has previously expressed his appreciation for competition in professional wrestling, but he emphasized the importance of ethical practices. During the press conference following Double or Nothing, he noted that this hasn’t always been the case “from the other side.” 

A WWE-imposed clause once restricted AEW from booking events seems to be a thing of the past now. We will have to see how this situation pans out in the future. 

AEW has been having apparent issues packing their houses in recent memory as well. Either way, WWE will not stop Tony Khan’s company from running those venues, as they have apparently altered their philosophy on the matter.

What’s your take on WWE no longer restricting venues from booking AEW shows? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media! 

Tony Khan’s roster has a few injuries on it already, and some of those wrestlers are able to complete through the pain. It appears there is a new name on that list, as Athena is now injured with a big title defense ahead of her.

ROH Women’s Champion Athena posted on Twitter that she had sustained a broken nose. That was cause for alarm, but she stated that she would still be participating in next week’s Ring of Honor Final Battle pay-per-view.

Later on, Athena removed the tweet, but PW Insider reported confirming the authenticity of the injury. The current ROH Women’s Champion is injured, but that won’t keep her from wrestling. 

It seems that Athena incurred the injury during last week’s Collision and Ring of Honor taping in Montreal. She will be featured on the upcoming ROH episode on their streaming platform. While engaged in a scuffle with Billie Starkz, it is believed that Athena suffered the broken nose, possibly from being thrown into a guardrail or a ring post.

Athena’s deleted tweet mentioned that she had just received X-ray results confirming the broken nose. It appears that she will still wrestle Billie Starkz at Final Battle despite that setback.

We’re hoping that Athena has a speedy recovery, and it doesn’t cause too many issues for her upcoming match. You can check out the card for ROH Final Battle below.

ROH Final Battle 2023 Card: 

The following matches are set for ROH Final Battle 2023, which takes place Friday, December 15 from Garland, TX at the Curtis Culwell Center:

ROH Women’s World Championship Match: Athena vs. Billie Starkz

ROH World Television Championship Survival Of The Fittest Match: Dalton Castle vs. Komander vs. Kyle Fletcher vs. Lee Johnson vs. Lee Moriarty vs. TBD* 

I Quit Match: Tony Nese vs. Ethan Page

Wheeler Yuta, Bryan Danielson & TBD vs. FTR & Mark Briscoe

Keith Lee vs. Shane Taylor

Vince McMahon shocked the pro wrestling world when he retired from WWE, a company he led for decades, only to come back and usher in a WWE sale. That sale never happened, but a merger did take place with the UFC, as Endeavor facilitated that corporate joining into TKO Group Holdings. Now, we have a new update on Mr. McMahon.

We previously reported that Vince McMahon has zero plans to leave WWE, despite selling so much company stock. He made that quite apparent with his most recent move by attending the company’s Holiday party. 

PW Insider reports that Vince McMahon made a very rare appearance at WWE headquarters this week.

Vince McMahon, who has not been seen much at WWE Headquarters of late, was at the company’s annual holiday party, which was held at the new HQ for the first time this past Wednesday evening.

It was reported that Vince McMahon, who wouldn’t usually attend the holiday party in the past, was present and actively engaged in conversations with numerous company employees. Several attendees described him as “easy to talk to” and “cordial.”

It was also reported that, unlike previous years, there were no WWE Superstars present at the event. Typically, there would be around four to six WWE talents at the gathering to meet and interact with employees. Instead, they got Vince McMahon, and it seemed that he was in a mood to socialize.

Following the Endeavor acquisition, Vince McMahon’s involvement in the company has significantly decreased, and he has been rarely seen at the new Headquarters. This was a rare sighting for Mr. McMahon around WWE HQ, but it seemed to be a good one.

Endeavor gave Triple H their blessing, and he is off to the races in his booking direction. Vince McMahon has virtually zero input in WWE creative now, but he still has a reason to stop by headquarters.

What do you think about Vince McMahon’s most recent sighting at the WWE Headquarters? Let us know your opinion by engaging with us on social media! 

WWE is making plans for the remainder of 2023, but they might not write anything for Sami Zayn at this point. The Underdog from the Underground may be getting a little break from the company.

Sami Zayn’s ascent in WWE was notable, and he remains one of the top Superstars on the red brand. After the December 4th episode of WWE RAW, he might be missing from the red brand for a stretch of time.

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer noted that Zayn recently asked management for time off and that request was granted.

“It looked like they were doing an injury angle with McIntyre and Zayn when McIntyre stomped on Zayn’s bad knee. I don’t have it confirmed Zayn will be off for a while due to that, but do know that he had asked for time off recently and was granted it, but wasn’t told when that would begin…

He was not scheduled for 12/28 show in Laval, Quebec that would normally be built around him, as that was during the scheduled break, although it is possible they could have him do that show.”

Sami Zayn may get a little break from WWE as they kick off a new year. That will also mean that WWE will have to go without him as well. Sami Zayn’s profile as a WWE Superstar was certainly elevated over the last year, so they will lose a considerable amount of star power with his hiatus.

WWE also used that beatdown angle during the December 4th episode of WWE RAW to further Drew McIntyre’s storyline as a heel. He has a real mean streak going now, and it appears that took Sami Zayn out of action. Drew McIntyre’s contract situation is also an interesting discussion point.

Sami Zayn could get a break from WWE and still make his return to WWE by January 27th’s Royal Rumble premium live event. As it stands right now, he may get a little break from the road.

Drew beating Sami backstage like Sami’s got a break coming.#WWERAW

— Aaron (@AaronVarble) December 5, 2023

What’s your take on Sami Zayn missing time with WWE? Has he seen the biggest rise out of any Superstar in recent memory? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media.

AEW is apparently going through some changes, and that called for a big firing this week, one that left many in shock. Kevin Sullivan was fired from his position with Tony Khan’s company, and some are critical of this decision.

We previously reported that Kevin Sullivan was fired from AEW. Not to be confused with the wrestler Kevin Sullivan, AEW’s Sullivan joined AEW in October 2019, making him one of the organization’s most seasoned backstage figures. Prior to his time at AEW, he had an extensive background in the wrestling industry, having served as Vice President of Production and an executive producer during his tenure with IMPACT Wrestling.

Kevin Sullivan Departs AEW

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer noted that Kevin Sullivan, who has been with AEW since they started the company, was fired in a surprising fashion. Nobody saw it coming, as Michael Mansury simply told Sullivan that they’re going in a new direction for 2024. Meltzer wrote:

“The story going around was Mansury told Sullivan that morning that they were moving in another direction in 2024.

Sullivan had no idea it was coming and was given no real explanation as to why, just that it was a Mansury decision.
People in the division didn’t even know that Mansury was Sullivan’s boss, noting that among those who worked in production that was never made clear.

The story in production is that nobody else was expected to be cut, but it was a team created by Sullivan so they are his guys.”

Tony Khan reportedly faced criticism within AEW due to a recent firing that surprised many in the company. Kevin Sullivan held the position of Vice President of Post Production, and his termination left people within AEW feeling shocked by the decision. Some wondered why Tony Khan didn’t step in and stop this from happening as well.

Kevin Sullivan had been with AEW since its early days, earning respect behind the scenes. He also had played a pivotal role in building the post-production team, primarily based in Nashville.

It appears that AEW is going to go in a different direction production-wise in 2024. They no longer needed Kevin Sullivan around to fulfill his duties. At this time, Sullivan’s firing is the only one that is expected, but he did leave a team of his curated guys behind in AEW.

What’s your take on AEW going in a different direction with production in 2024? How will that change things for fans watching at home? Let us know what you think by engaging on social media! 

WWE has their eyes on the entire pro wrestling world, and Giulia has been on their radar for a while.

In early November, the pro wrestling world started buzzing over word that WWE had interest in signing Giulia. That initial report led to some confusion over whether the STARDOM and New Japan Pro-Wrestling star was actually a free agent and when she may be available to sign with another company.

In the latest issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer that WWE and Giulia have spoken on several occasions. Sadly, the part about her going to Orlando’s WWE Performance Center for a visit wasn’t true in the end. That being said, she still hasn’t told anyone in Japan which way she is going with things.

Regarding Giulia, the update is that she has not made her mind up and that she and WWE have spoken several times of late. They’ve talked enough that there is something to the story, although the story she was going to the Performance Center at this time ended up not being accurate. But she has not told those in Japan that she’s staying nor that she’s leaving.

There’s no guarantee that Giulia will end up making her way to North America. Bushiroad, the parent company of STARDOM and NJPW, is likely to work hard to keep her. There is a lot of fuss over the 29-year-old breakout star right now, whose could become a free agent in a matter of months. 

WWE has a lot of money to throw at contracts for talent that they feel will benefit their operation. Someone like Giulia could see a lot of success in WWE, but she is also having quite a time in STARDOM at the moment.

Do you think WWE will end up signing Giulia to a contract? Would Triple H make good use of her? Let us know what you think about this by engaging with us on social media! 

Cora Jade broke out as a star worth paying attention to in NXT, but she hasn’t been around since August. That break for Cora Jade is likely going to end very soon.

Cora Jade has missed a lot during her time away from NXT. Becky Lynch had a reign as NXT Women’s Champion, and she also missed the Iron Survivor Challenge match. Cora Jade has been away from NXT television for long enough at this point.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that Cora Jade’s hiatus from WWE television is expected to end “imminently.” She is expected to be back this weekend, which is perfect timing for Deadline. 

“Cora Jade is scheduled to return imminently, expected to be this weekend.”

WWE NXT will take place on Saturday, December 9, at 7:30 PM in the Total Mortgage Arena located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. We will have coverage here at SEScoops, and Cora Jade’s return to NXT television may just go down during that event.

Cora Jade’s most recent match took place on July 25, 2023, as she faced off against Dana Brooke in a Kendo Stick match. Dana Brooke won that battle, and Jade walked out of the locker room a short time later. Dana Brooke was later released by WWE, so it looks like Cora Jade isn’t getting that win back. 

Cora Jade and Bron Breakker are still in a relationship, and she’s been very active on social media. Many fans may notice a change in Cora Jade’s appearance after her return, but odds are she will have even more determination to reach the top of WWE’s third brand.

Do you miss Cora Jade on NXT television? Should she come back and go right after the NXT Women’s Title? Let us know what you think by engaging on social media! 

Drew McIntyre’s recent heel turn provided a breath of fresh air for his character, but the real question is how much longer WWE will have him around. Despite his current run on top of the red brand, McIntyre’s future in WWE is uncertain. 

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer stated that, much like Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre’s WWE contract was also frozen during his injury hiatus. This will ensure that the former WWE Champion will be with the company “through WrestleMania.” 

It was also noted that Drew McIntyre hasn’t signed a new deal with WWE yet. At this time, he is considering some time off, but there was also doubt that he would sit out any considerable amount of time due to his current momentum. 

“In the case of McIntyre, as of this week, there was nothing new as far as what he was looking at doing. He’s considered a number of things, including taking time off to be with his family that he’s seen little of for so long. But he’s also in his prime earning years with the chance to probably make the most money in his career”

Drew McIntyre has made a name for himself outside WWE before, so he might just do that again. Saying that you want some time off for your family is also a good way to let your contract expire, even if there are All Elite intentions.

Drew McIntyre got fans talking when he stormed off after WarGames at Survivor Series. He was working, so that reaction was not authentic. The fact that he got the internet talking in such a way only further drives home his influence. 

Tony Khan would almost certainly love to have the Scottish Psychopath on AEW television. Drew McIntyre has also worked with several members of the AEW locker room in the past, so it’s anyone’s guess what he will do next.

Drew McIntyre will be around WWE “through WrestleMania,” so fans can likely expect a program for him on the road to the show of shows in 2024. Then McIntyre will be at a very important crossroads for his career.

What’s your take on Drew McIntyre’s contract situation? Where do you think he will land next? Let us know what you think by engaging with us on social media!