Last year’s WWE Draft may have separated the New Day, but it did not defeat them. Far from it. Many, including Big E, feel the brand split just means their group gets even more exposure than it did before.

“Even though we’re on different shows, I still feel like the caveman that’s gone out and grabbed fresh meat and berries and brought it back to the cave so that my family can eat,” Big E said speaking to Bleacher Report.

Big E was largely referring to his recent Money in the Bank victory. However, in his mind, the same would apply even if he were to lift the WWE Championship. In fact, while chatting, Big E reflected that his victory wasn’t his, but rather, the groups.

“That may have been one of the greatest nights of my career,” Big E said about becoming Mr Money in the Bank. “I almost don’t want to say it because I have so much reverence for Kofi and Woods and what we’ve done together. It almost feels like saying that diminishes that, but to me, but it’s still a New Day accomplishment. I don’t think I would’ve gotten here without those guys and how much I was able to grow as a performer because of that run.”

Being in the New Day Changed Big E’s Career Forever

When they first debuted, the New Day sank almost as fast as the League of Nations faction. However, something changed. Something clicked. It was an organic growth that nobody could have stopped. Not even the big man of the group. In creating the New Day, the lives of Big E, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods were changed forever.

Even if the stable does disband, and change their personas, the legacy of the New Day will live on. From their incredible battles against The Uso’s, to their trombone-playing, pancake-flinging antics, they are a faction that changed the landscape.

“That’s still my perspective. I don’t just do this for me. Everything I do adds to our legacy as a trio.” Big E said, confirming his earlier statements about the New Day still having a lot they want to accomplish.

Levi Cooper – formerly known as Tucker in WWE – recently joined Joey Karni for a chat on The Angle Podcast. During the chat, he naturally spoke about his time as part of Heavy Machinery. Despite being loved by the fans during their run, the team never won a single championship in WWE.

Levi Cooper was happy to share his thoughts on why this was, and why he isn’t bothered by that fact.

“At the risk of sounding arrogant, I think maybe a part of the reason we didn’t get those [Tag Team Titles] is because we were able to get over on our own. We’re this big babyface team, you listen to the crowd when we come out. They love us they’re all about us, you don’t need to put the straps on us for them to be like ‘hey we like these guys and we’re all about them, we’re already all about them.” Levi Cooper explained.

Levi Cooper Feels Titles Are Secondary When It Comes to Success

As he spoke, Levi Cooper expanded on his theory regarding Heavy Machinery. Explaining how he viewed the use of tag team titles in wrestling. Viewing them as props that are used to get certain teams to where they need to be, rather than a reflection of one team necessarily being better than the rest.

“Championships are… for a lack of a better term television props. It’s the prize that’s fought over when there’s a protagonist and an antagonist, they have to both want the same thing for that conflict to work. In a wrestling setting, that’s what the championship exists for. Obviously, the main championship, the top prize that comes with a level of stature. There’s a realness about being that guy… The tag championships for me, it doesn’t mean that we’re any better or worse than any other tag team, it’s just a part of our television atmosphere and what we do. And of course, we’re gonna try and get those, but when we were having conversations together me and Otis, it was about how do we think the audience is gonna react to us, versus what do we need to do to get those tag team championships.” Levi Cooper said.

Championships are used to proclaim a person or team as being the best. However, there is a reality to Levi Cooper’s words. They don’t sound bitter, or resentful, but rather down to earth and straightforward. Every wrestler wants to win titles. However, real success and true character is not driven by gold, but by a connection with the fan base.

Any long-term WWE fan will remember the heated rivalry between Edge and John Cena back in 2006. The pair had undeniable chemistry, with their feud running for ten months and an impressive eleven singles matches.

Talking during his recent appearance on The Kurt Angle Show, Edge spoke about his feud with Cena and revealed the one match they never had.

Edge spoke fondly of the recently returned Cena and said their chemistry worked because they were both on the same page from the get-go. Both understood the point of the feud and the expected end result.

“When I got to John, and we kind of got on the same page and he realized what I was out to do, which was just that, to make him Superman. Once we both had that understanding. Then, we were off and running, because I don’t think that program was supposed to last more than three weeks.” Edge explained.

Edge and John Cena Have Never Met at Wrestlemania

One fact that Edge raised during his chat was that while he and John Cena have fought many times over the years. There was one event where they are yet to clash.

“The only thing was with John and I, we never wrestled a one-on-one at WrestleMania. Which is crazy, right? We worked everything else, but.”

The pair have not faced off in a ring since 2010, however, now, in 2021, both men are active on WWE programming once more. Currently, Edge and Cena both have feuds taking place on Smackdown. Edge with Seth Rollins, and Cena with Roman Reigns. It is not inconceivable to think that the pair could still get their shared Wrestlemania moment.

“I’m back. The scent is in the air. You never know, it could happen one day.” From the sound of things, Edge thinks it could happen too. Whether there are titles on the line or not, there is no denying the fact that a match between them would be a perfect fit for any card.

Listening to Kevin Nash chat with Stone Cold Steve Austin is something special. The two nattered like long lost buddies catching up on old times. During his recent appearance on Broken Skull Sessions, Nash and Austin spoke about a great many things. One of which was acting, which seems to be the go-to backup profession for wrestlers these days.

Kevin Nash admitted that he would love to get into film and tv work. Nash admitted during the talk that opportunities would likely be limited for him, given his size. However, he did reveal there was already a role out there he wanted to claim as his own.

“I love to act,” Kevin Nash said. “Like right now, Rob Zombie’s got the rights to The Munsters. I’d love to play Herman. The thing is, there’s a sensibility and femininity in Herman Munster. That would be if I had to pick the perfect role that I’ve always wanted to play.”

As of the time of writing, there is no official word on who has been cast for any roles in the Munsters reboot. However, it is believed all roles have been filled.

Kevin Nash is No Stranger to the Big Screen

While Kevin Nash is correct, a big man may struggle to find roles in most conventional movies, he is certainly no stranger to the camera.

Nash has acted in films dating back to 1991. Then, he played the role of Super Shredder in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze. In fact, Kevin Nash has quite a number of small productions under his belt.

It’s not surprising that so many wrestlers turn towards acting when their in-ring careers begin drawing to a close. A large part of wrestling is developing a character and performing night after night. Skills that will serve you well on the big screen. Just look at the success of The Rock or John Cena.

Kevin Nash is a talented man, and he is right about one thing. The role of Herman Munster would be perfect for him.

WWE is a brand that is known the world over. Say what you want about their creative side, but when it comes to branding, they know what they are doing. In their most recent move, the company has announced a deal with Iconic Events Releasing.

The deal will see Summerslam, and other WWE PPVs broadcast in movie theaters around the United States. WWE broke the news of their Iconic Events Releasing deal on their website yesterday.

“Iconic Events Releasing is proud to be in partnership with WWE to bring their incredible brand to movie theaters coast to coast,” said Iconic CEO Steve Bunnell. “Summerslam is a marquee event that demands to be seen on the big screen, with big sound, in an auditorium full of excited fans.”

Summerslam is also available live on the Peacock Network. Streaming a PPV directly to theaters is a new first for WWE. It is unclear if WWE plans to use their relationship with Iconic to show every PPV or just their core shows. Events like Royal Rumble, Wrestlemania, Summerslam and Survivor Series.

WWE and Iconic Events Releasing Just Made Summerslam Even Bigger

Often touted as the biggest event of the summer, WWE Summerslam 2021 was already shaping up to be a huge event. Live crowds and the return of John Cena and living legend Goldberg has fans chomping at the bit. However, with the Iconic Events Releasing partnership, everything about Summerslam just got that much bigger.

Yes, you can still watch the event at home, however, there is something special about watching anything in a movie theatre. Seeing the wrestling on a truly big screen, with the volume cranked up high. It would certainly be a memorable experience. You can get tickets from local box offices or online through the Iconic Events Releasing website.

AEW’s newest member of the announcement team, Mark Henry has spoken up about working for AEW and in particular, Jade Cargill.

Mark Henry believes that Cargill has everything it takes to be a major star for the promotion despite only being involved in wrestling for a very short time.

“Jade is going to be a superstar. I’ve told her recently, I said, ‘You’re me. You are a star, you are a celebrity. Without a doubt, she will do all of it. She’s going to have to get to the point where she can wake up at 4 in the morning and if somebody grabs her in a headlock, she’ll know exactly what to do. In this industry, there is a lot to learn, and if you want to learn it at a good clip, but you don’t want to learn so fast that you get injured and that’s kind of the thing. She has tried to do things she probably shouldn’t be doing yet, and she has gotten injured. So, we’re going to slow down, work on the fundamentals, and let her evolve.”

“It took me three years, and she’s been in it less than one. So, the Jade Cargill that we’re going to get in three years is going to be one of the main event players on the show. She is already ‘must-see TV’. We’ll be talking about her like we talked about Kenny Omega in three years.” Mark Henry explained. Talking during an appearance on the Battleground podcast.

Mark Henry Was Been Jade Cargills Mentor Before Either Signed for AEW

It is no secret that Mark Henry knew Jade Cargill before both signed for AEW. It was thanks to Henry that Cargill started training at Heath Slaters wrestling school. Jade has also made sure that people know she views Mark Henry as her mentor in the wrestling world.

Jade Cargill is a woman just starting her wrestling career and had her first-ever match live on AEW Dynamite. It’s oddly poetic that Mark Henry intends to have his last ever match on the same show. Possible Elevation, but that lacks the poetry this piece needed.

Hearing the enthusiasm in Mark Henry’s voice when he talks about Cargill’s potential in a wrestling ring certainly makes you take notice. She has already accomplished a lot in a short time and certainly seems to have the tools necessary to succeed.

The going is good right now for All Elite Wrestling. The return of fans has boosted their viewing figures, and Fyter Fest proved to be a very exciting occasion with plenty of surprises. It seems as if there is a new announcement every single week. Not to mention recent rumours of both CM Punk and Daniel Bryan signing for the company. It has also just been discovered that All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has applied for a new trademark. This time for the term The First Dance.

The First Dance trademark is for Entertainment Services which is described as:

“THE FIRST DANCE trademark registration is intended to cover the categories of educational and entertainment services, namely, a continuing program about wrestling accessible by radio, television, satellite, audio, video and computer networks; Entertainment services in the nature of development, creation, production, distribution, and post-production of wrestling programs and events; Entertainment services in the nature of live wrestling performances; Entertainment services in the nature of production of television shows and multimedia entertainment content featuring wrestling programs and events; Entertainment services, namely, production and distribution of ongoing television programs in the field of wrestling; Entertainment services, namely, providing ongoing webisodes featuring wrestling via a global computer network; Entertainment services, namely, an ongoing multimedia program featuring wrestling distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media; Entertainment services, namely, an ongoing series featuring wrestling provided through a global computer network; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network.

The First Dance is the Latest AEW Trademark to be Filed

This is not the first time news has broken for AEW trademarks. Earlier reports included their application for Battle for the Belts. While we are yet to hear that name associated with AEW, it shows their intentions and echoes their penchant for forward planning. The First Dance certainly has an interesting air to it and would make a great PPV name.

As of the time of writing, nothing more is known about how AEW plan to use The First Dance should they be given the trademark for it. However, with their plans for regular TNT specials and ongoing PPVs already known, it makes sense to assume this will fall into one of those open slots.

AEW has proven itself to be a well-run company, making decisions that are thought out and well planned. Don’t expect them to throw The First Dance around before they knew exactly how and when the music will start to play.

As we roll on towards the biggest wrestling event of the summer, we have both John Cena and Goldberg making their WWE comebacks. Talking recently on The Wrestling Inc., Daily former WWE referee Jimmy Korderas discussed the different reactions to the two legends. He went on to explain why he feels John Cena will always get a different reaction than Goldberg, regardless of the split opinion on them both.

“I think it’s going to be mixed,” admitted Jimmy Korderas. “Obviously there’s going to be the people going ‘Oh, cool to see [Goldberg]’ [and] ‘Eh, do we really want to see him right now?’ Especially with this current fanbase. Right now, they want to see [WWE] moving forward, and I think too many of them might see this as a step too far back.”

However, with John Cena, the reaction, while mixed, held far less exasperation about another old-timer coming back. In Jimmy Korderas’s mind, this has to do with the fact that Cena is a homegrown WWE talent. As such, his connection with the fans is very different.

“It’s different with John Cena because John Cena, for WWE, was at a different level,” observed Korderas. “If a Stone Cold comes back and does a beer bash and a couple of stunners people really love that. The Rock coming back, again, another rumored thing. Goldberg wasn’t a homegrown WWE talent, so I think the fans might view it a little differently.”

Jimmy Korderas Sees Money in Goldberg Returning

As the conversation continued to flow, Jimmy Korderas said he can see the thinking behind both men returning this moment in time. He would book Goldberg to be dominated by Bobby Lashley in order to establish Bobby as a monster ahead of the real match people are waiting for.

Call me crazy here, because obviously [Goldberg] would have to agree to this,” prefaced Korderas. “But can you imagine Goldberg having a match against Bobby Lashley and it turning out the same way as it did with Kofi? Would that not turn Bobby into one of the most hated individuals? Not only that, he took out Goldberg like that? Setting him up as the big monster for possibly another monster returning?”

The monster Jimmy Korderas is referring to is Brock Lesnar. Lesnar versus Lashley is a fight the entire WWE universe has been waiting for for a very long time.

Finn Balor is back on the WWE main roster. Many will say it is where he should have always been. However, one Hall of Famer has spoken up about the challenge that Finn now faces. Booker T doesn’t expect Balor to have an easy time of things after moving back up from NXT to Smackdown.

“I’m going to tell you this, Finn Balor being back on the main roster, he’s gonna have to work, man. It’s almost like you’ve got your 1-10 contenders. Right now I would say is No. 10. He’s going to have to work his way back up to that No. 1 spot through his performance — through his performance and that alone. I’m going to tell you right now, if Finn Balor is lucky enough to have a dance partner like Sami Zayn, that’s going to be definitely one for him to be able to go out there and create some magic in a match like that and let the world see exactly what Finn Balor is all about.” Booker T said while talking on his Hall of Fame podcast.

Booker T Says Finn Balor Needs to Connect with the Fans

Booker T wasn’t done there. It went on to say that Finn Balor will need to build a connection with the fans.

“I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times, you want to make the fans feel you in the ring …You got a guy like Finn Balor who can go out there and be not just a top Superstar on the roster, *the* top Superstar on the roster.

Booker T’s words seem mildly out of place for a star like Finn Balor. The fans know exactly what he can do, and already have a deep connection with the Irish star. The NXT audience blew up when Balor made his first-ever appearance for the brand and reacted the same way every time he worked a show.

Eddie Kingston has been on a tear as of late in AEW, proving all of his critics wrong. While many were surprised by his appearances, he has grown to be one of the company’s top guys.

Talking in a recent interview with Bleacher Report, Kingston addressed the commonly raised issue of ‘the future of wrestling.’

Every generation has given rise to a few names who stand taller than the rest. A few youngsters whose skills can be seen right from the very start of their career. Eddie Kingston had a few names spring to his mind when answering the question.

“Everybody knows Jungle Boy is the future of the business,” was Kingston’s initial response. However, he later went on to add more and more names to the list. Emphasizing that the future of AEW does not lie in the hands of just one name.

“(Wheeler) Yuta just came in. I’ve known him for a minute. Brian Pillman Jr. of course, and his partner, Griff (Garrison). A lot of guys in the Dark Order are the future, especially of AEW. I don’t like the kid. What’s his name? MJF? He’s an assh–e. He hasn’t messed with me yet. I have known him for a very long time and he knows how I am. I’ll give the devil his due. He is definitely the future of AEW.”

Eddie Kingston Sees The Future Everywhere He Looks

Going on to further expand on his point, Eddie Kingston continued to look further afield than his own current setting. Explaining how he saw the future of wrestling in every different organization.

“You have a bunch of young, hungry guys there and in all of wrestling,” Eddie Kingston said. “Every promotion has a bunch of guys who are ready to go. I think the pandemic made these guys hungrier because they saw that everything can be taken away in a heartbeat. Wrestling is in good hands. My man Curt Stallion, who just got let go. When he gets his shot, he will knock it out of the park. There are so many good dudes. Joshua Bishop in AIW up in Cleveland. He’s an animal. I don’t want to keep naming people because I know I’m going to leave somebody out and I am going to feel bad. Charli Evans out in Australia, Marti Belle, Allysin Kay, they’re great.”

The point Eddie Kingston makes is that we are often too concerned with an individual than with the entirety of a generation. The future of wrestling is not Jungle Boy or MFJ. The future of wrestling is everybody in their generation who is hungry enough to fight for their place on any given roster.

Another surprise appearance at AEW Fyter Fest came during a segment involving Andrade el Idolo who introduced a new associate in the form of Chavo Guerrero. The nephew of the late great Eddie Guerrero is a wrestling veteran. His emergence from the tunnel as the new executive consultant for el Idolo certainly shocked the raucous AEW crowd.

Since his AEW debt, Andrade el Idolo has been working alongside Vickie Guerrero, who is Chavo’s aunt through marriage. The wrestling world has a special affinity with the Guerrero family. AEW is certainly a great place for Chavo Guerrero to be.

Addressing the crowd, Chavo Guerrero made a quick impact with the fans, praising the talent that he had seen backstage. However, he quickly moved into character, positioning his client at the top of that list.

Chavo Guerrero Stirs the Pot for Death Triangle

Only a few moments after making his debut, Chavo Guerrero started to stir the pot for Death Triangle. Andrade has wasted no time in picking on the talented faction since his arrival. Chavo went one step further by suggesting Penta and Rey Fenix should switch allegiances and side with his client.

The deal was swiftly rejected, and a classic referee pull-apart ensued, furthering the feud between Andrade and the Death Triangle. As of writing, little has been confirmed about Chavo Guerrero’s involvement with AEW. We have yet to see the classic Chavo is All Elite image. However, it seems unlikely he would be introduced in such a role for a single or short run.

At 50 years old, it’s unlikely we will see him lacing up his boots in AEW. However, a move into management could be exactly what the veteran needs at this stage of his career.

Chavo Guerrero has accomplished a lot in his career, fighting for major promotions around the world, including a decade long run in WWE which ended in 2011.

Much has been written about Daniel Bryan in recent months. The quiet nature of his WWE departure had everybody scratching their heads. Now, according to reports on Bodyslam.net, Bryan is locked into a deal with AEW.

This news comes just days after PWInsider reported that WWE was not factoring Daniel Bryan into the merchandise and licensing plans for 2021-2022.

Bodyslam has since updated that current plans call for Daniel Bryan to debut for AEW at the September 22^nd Grand Slam event from New York City’s Arthur Ashe stadium. AEW put great care into planning their events, often running quite far in advance. Having a star like Bryan debut at a big event such as that would make great sense. It would also allow for existing plans to reach their head at All Out on September 5^th.

Daniel Bryan’s AEW deal is said to be for similar money as he was making in WWE, but he’ll be required to work far fewer dates. Moreover, his deal reportedly allows him the opportunity to work in Japan. This is another country close to his wrestling heart, and something he could never have done while working at WWE.

Daniel Bryan is Not the Only Potential AEW Surprise

The news of Daniel Bryan agreeing a deal with AEW is something many saw coming the minute he disappeared from WWE. However, with recent news of CM Punk being cleared for a wrestling return, and AEW having a sold-out show coming up in Chicago, AEW fans could have a lot to cheer about very soon.

A lot has been made of WWE wrestlers signing for AEW. However, wrestling is a relatively small world. Yes, there are lots of indie promotions, but as you look at larger promotions, you would be hard pushed to find many stars who have not competed for a combination of IMPACT, ROH, WWE, or AEW. Daniel Bryan has had a long wrestling career. He’s wrestled for promotions all over the world. When it comes down to it, AEW is the destination that makes the most sense.

While nothing has been reported, it is believed that Daniel Bryan will revert to fighting under his real name of Brian Danielson.

On a night of crazy happenings at Fyter Fest, the biggest shock of them all was undoubtedly the debut of GCW champion Nick Gage. Moreover, the manner in which is made his debut.

Much has been publicized about Gage’s feud with Jon Moxley. However, it was best MJF that the hardcore hero made his entrance. Nick Gage will be the second step in the Labors of Jericho.

The debut came just after Chris Jericho had defeated Shawn Spears. The stipulation of that match being Spears could use a chair, while Jericho could not.

The match between Jericho and Nick Gage has already been set for AEW’s Fight for the Fallen. Jericho has already responded to the news that it will be a no disqualification match but promising to resurrect his Painmaker persona.

Jericho is the G.O.A.T, and he is no stranger to hellacious matches. However, he would not have been the first name on the list of potential Nick Gage opponents in AEW.

Nick Gage Versus Chris Jericho Will Be Bowling Shoe Ugly

It seems only fitting to quote Jim Ross by saying the upcoming match between Gage and Jericho will be bowling shoe ugly. Nick Gage is a fighter. He’s the master of the hardcore, deathmatch style. Jericho is a warrior, there is no doubt about it. Just don’t expect to see a fight built around technical finesse and headlocks.

If Jericho wants to get his hands on MJF, then Nick Gage is certainly going to make him work for it.

The appearance on AEW made its mark on Nick Gage, who has not had an easy life both in and out of the ring. His episode of Dark Side of the Ring did a lot to educate people on the well-known indie wrestler. Love him or hate him, Gage is tough as a two-dollar steak. There’s a good chance, AEW will never be the same again by the time he is done.

Gage is the current GCW champion. Besides a feud with Moxley, is also preparing to take on former AEW wrestler Matt Cardona. That fight is set for the GCQ world title this coming Saturday at the GCW Homecoming Part 1 event.

At the time of writing, it’s not known if Nick Gage’s appearance for AEW is a once-off affair. With Jon Moxley and Kenny Omega both recently being linked to Gage, there is scope for a longer run.

Not every wrestler in a company needs to be a champion. There are all kinds of wrestlers, from jobbers and comedic relief to midcarders and main event stars. All have a role to play and are important to a company brand and dynamic. Ryan Nemeth and the Wingmen are one such group. They serve a purpose in AEW. They can put on a good match and are entertaining characters, but rarely will they be main event players.

Talking on a recent episode of Talk is Jericho, Ryan Nemeth spoke about how the Wingmen came to be. Admitting that it wasn’t even his idea, but rather, Christian’s.

Ryan Nemeth had no idea a plan was being made for him and his friends until he was ordered to visit Tony Khan’s Office.

“I remember walking around Dynamite one day and three people said, ‘Hey, did you talk to Tony yet? Go talk to him.’ I was like, ‘Alright’, so I go and knock on the door, and he goes, ‘You’re going to be the Wingmen, okay? Christian thought of this. He thinks you guys look kind of funny together and it can be funny. You can be funny, ya know? You’ll figure it out, right?’” Ryan Nemeth explained.

Ryan Nemeth Has Christian to Thank for The Wingmen

The next task for Ryan Nemeth explaining the gimmick to the others in his group. “And I was like, ‘Alright,’ so I went back and gathered everyone around and I said, ‘Alright, so we’re The Wingmen now,’ and they said, ‘What does that mean?’ ‘You know, like when you go to a bar and you help a guy meet a girl. We’re just that.. just, all the time. And it’s not really ever about women.”

The Wingmen are a talented group of individuals. JD Drake is a wrestler very easy to underestimate and yes, Peter Avolon is also. You need skills to play such a fool in such a dangerous profession. Under his Hollywood Hunk moniker, Ryan Nemeth is leading the group as they irritate their way through the AEW ranks.

AEW’s Max Caster has landed himself a regular gig on TMZ, and it’s all thanks to Mark Henry. Talking recently during an appearance on the Battleground Podcast, Henry took the credit for brokering the deal.

“I just recently fostered a deal with TMZ and Max Caster. Now every week, he’s going to be on TMZ ripping Hollywood, ripping sports, ripping wrestling. Tune in to see what Max Caster is going to do every week.” Mark Henry explained.

There is no denying that a job on TMZ would suit a character like Caster. He has a sharp tongue and isn’t afraid to lace his barbs with venom when necessary. He knows how to get under the skin and say things in a way that get a reaction. Just look at his Oral Sessions intro ahead of his tag-team fight against Jon Moxley and Eddie Kingston.

While there are no details right now, from what Mark Henry has said it sounds like a role Caster was born to fill.

Mark Henry Sees the Power of Cross Media Promotions

Speaking further, Mark Henry explained how he sees a value in AEW branching out into other media streams. Not just mainstream, wrestling-centric avenues, but allowing wrestlers to test the waters in related niches, in order to draw in more fans.

“The number one thing I would want to put out there is, we have to do more of this, er, marketing and creating relationships with media and not just big media but the grassroots media, the podcasts, the companies that are interested in pro-wrestling, not only to the market but for fans.” Mark Henry said.

Since signing with AEW, Mark Henry has been a quiet figure, however, he is gearing up for the premiere of AEW Rampage which premiers on August 13th. Henry will serve as a lead analyst for the show, as well as being an influential figure backstage.

It has been five years since Steve Corino last had a competitive match in a wrestling ring. While the former ECW champion has never officially retired, he has been working as a producer for WWE since 2016.

However, sometimes all a wrestler needs to lace up his boots one more time, is the right motivation. For Steve Corino, it came in the form of a challenge laid down by his own son. Colby Corino is the current PWF Crystal Coast Oceanic Title.

Colby laid down the challenge, which Steve was happy to accept. The pair will clash on Colby’s 25^th birthday. That’s quite the way to celebrate.

Steve Corino held numerous championships in a career dating back to 1994. The most notable of which was his time as ECW Heavyweight champion. He also enjoyed a reign as ROH tag team champion alongside Jimmy Jacobs.

Steve Corino Lacing Up His Boots For The Right Reasons

Wrestling is a business where it can be hard to stay retired. The lure of one more match can often be too hard to resist. However, for Steve Corino, a return to the ring is happening for all the right reasons.

Colby Corino is a talented wrestler, who is known predominantly for his time in Ring of Honor. He also trained for a time in the New Japan Pro Wrestling Dojo in LA. He also made two appearances for WWE. The match against his father, Steve Corino promises to be a fun affair. Airing on independentwrestling.tv, the result would appear to be written on the wall. However, for wrestling fans, it will be a treat to see the older Corino back in action.

The return to the ring looks to be a one and done affair for Steve Corino, who is contracted to WWE and seems to be enjoying his backstage producer role.

The debut of Malakai Black on AEW Dynamite was a shock that nobody saw coming. At least, not so soon. The reasons for his sudden appearance have been well documented. However, talking in a recent interview with Metal Injection, Black talked about his release, including his unusual reaction to the news.

“It’s funny, but as soon as I got released, my wife started crying. I actually started laughing because they built me up for 5-6 weeks, they made me come back [to SmackDown], and now they’re pulling me off TV again? I just couldn’t take the whole situation seriously anymore.” Malakai Black (talking as Tommy End) explained.

The now Malakai Black went on to talk about how he felt WWE booking was something somewhat farcical. Creative minds seemingly changing with the wind.

“There’s nothing really consistent. Everything changes week to week or is done to the point of beating it to death.”

Malakai Black Always Knew AEW Was Where He Needed to Be

When talking about the relief of his release, Malakai Black just knew that he wanted to head to AEW. It was an immediate reaction.

“That was the immediate thought process. I was sick of it, even before everything went down. I loved my time in NXT, but I felt I did nothing of importance on the main roster. It was too much bipolar 50-50 booking, they would push me and pull me off TV.”

One thing has been consistent with Malakai Black’s comments since his release and that is the depth of frustration he felt being trapped in WWE. He went so far as to create a ‘release video’ proclaiming his entire WWE experience to be nothing more than a psychotic episode.

Malakai Black made a big splash, attacking Arn Anderson and Cody Rhodes. With all of that pent up frustration ready to be released, his first feud promises to be a good one.

Love them or hate them, Heels serve a very important purpose in professional wrestling. AEW star Ethan Page is a heel at the top of his game right now. Alongside Scorpio Sky, they are the Men of the Year, and they are getting under the skin of every AEW out there. Exactly as a great heel should.

Talking on a recent episode of Oral Sessions (guest hosted by Danhausen), Ethan Page spoke at length about his motivation in AEW. For the most part, he remained firmly in character, which made for entertaining listening.

“See I would love to beat up Orange Cassidy,” Ethan Page said. “It pisses me off that he’s cornered the market on denim, especially since he’s not Canadian and he wears a Canadian tuxedo on a regular basis. And I want to wear more denim, but I feel like if I do all the little nerds online are going to be like ‘oh you can’t wear that. That’s Orange Cassidy’s outfit.’ And it pisses me off because I am a man of fashion.”

Ethan Page Got Serious to Talk About His Appreciation For AEW

Towards the end of the interview, however, Ethan Page dropped his persona and spoke from the heart. Talking about his experience with AEW so far, and how it differs from everything else in his career.

“I do want to give a big shoutout to AEW,” Ethan Page said. “I’ve only been here since about March but it’s been a life-changing experience. The way the company treats talent is something unlike I’ve ever experienced before. I hope one day, not to cause any kerfuffle on the internet, I hope you get to experience it one-day Danhausen. It’s insane to me to find a company that puts the company first. I think more people should be talking about it. And I would love for people to check out my vlog because I think I give a little bit of a glimpse to that side of it.”

Ethan Page is a huge talent for AEW, with Jim Ross recently singling him out for praise, picking him to be a top star for the company. While not the youngest member of the roster, Page has a lot of years left in the ring and has only just begun to define himself.

He who holds the Money in the Bank briefcase holds his own destiny. Big E recently rose to the top of the ladder and grabbed the briefcase. Now, he has already spoken about who he would love to cash in against.

Talking in an interview with DAZN’s Steve Muehlhausen Big E explained who he would rather choose to cash in against.

“Those are all great options,” Big E said. “I feel Roman’s the guy though. Roman’s the guy in the industry, and if you want to be remembered, if you want to do something cool, something special, that’s a great way to do it. Roman’s on a tear. This is one of the best runs I can remember. I feel like he’s definitely hitting his stride in a way that he hasn’t before.”

Ordinarily, cashing in your Money in the Bank case is a surprise affair, but recent years have seen the holders call their shots a little ahead of time.

Big E Feels to be the Best You Should Beat the Best

Going on to explain his reasoning for choosing Roman as his cash in of choice. It’s a simple matter of wanting to prove that you are the best and deserving of the right to be a champion.

“You can look at the entire scope of the rest of the industry, and you can determine who you think is the number one guy, who you think is the best, who should be at the very top. I think it’s not that difficult to make an argument for Roman being number one across all brands, across all boards. Beating him means that whoever beats him for that title, it’s going to be memorable. It’s going to mean something, and why not me?” Big E explained.

In wrestling, plans can always change. With John Cena back to challenge Roman Reigns at SummerSlam, Big E may need to adjust on the fly. However, one thing is certain, whoever is the champ when the time comes, Big E will be ready for them.

NJPW has released a statement on the status of Kota Ibushi. The former dual IWGP Champion and Intercontinental champion was recently pulled from the companies Summer Struggle series. The reasons for this were given as a bad reaction to the COVID-19 vaccination. However, new updates have confirmed Ibushi has a case of Aspiration Pneumonia.

In a statement issued by New Japan Pro Wrestling, they stressed that the illness was not related to the vaccination and that Kota Ibushi had tested negative for Covid.

Kota Ibushi was scheduled to participate in a few shows at the end of this month, namely events in Osaka on July 22^nd and 23^rd and Nagoya on July 24^th. There is no current timeline for his return to the ring. However, he will be assessed ahead of the Wrestle Grand Slam event on July 25^th.

Kota Ibushi Will Be Eager to Regain His IWGP Crown

Kota Ibushi has had quite the year in NJPW. He defeated Naito to claim both the IWGP Championship and Intercontinental belts. He then became in inaugural IWGP Heavyweight champion before losing the title to Will Ospreay.

Now, with the belt around Shingo Takagi’s waist, Kota Ibushi will be eager to get back into the run and restart his journey to the top. This could happen at the Wrestle Grand Slam event, assuming medical staff clear Ibushi for a return to the ring. Failing that, however, all eyes will turn to the G1.

With less than two months before the start of the G1 Climax event, Kota Ibushi will be eager to get back to full match fitness. He won the event in 2019 and 2020, becoming only the third wrestler to win back-to-back G1’s. He will be looking to set history this year and claim victory for a third successive year.

Doing so would give him the opportunity to headline Wrestle Kingdom in the new year and try to reclaim the gold from whoever is the IWGP Heavyweight champion at the time. Kota Ibushi is a star draw for NJPW. Hopefully, this bout of pneumonia will not hinder his performance once he returns.

Mr. Money in the Bank, Big E, has weighed in on the possibility of Conor McGregor appearing for WWE.

The Notorious One has been subject to rumours of a switch from the octagon to the squared circle. There have always been strong ties between WWE and UFC, with several fighters over the years making a similar move.

However, Big E was cautious when discussing the welcome Conor McGregor would get should he make the change. During an interview with ViBe and Wrestling, Big E says he’d welcome McGregor to WWE, but isn’t sure everybody would have the same minset.

“So yeah, I would never have a problem with that,” he began. “Not everyone would welcome him or feel the same but he’s extremely entertaining. And I think if he did come to WWE, I think he would get a lot of attention. I think he would be worth the investment I’m sure for a lot of people so yeah, I would not have a problem with it.”

Big E on McGregor’s Baggage

Big E is a well-known fan of MMA, and he often shares news and stories relating to the UFC. However, even he has some doubts about the impact Conor McGregor would have on the WWE locker room. There is a fine balance that he feels the Notorious One might upset.

“For me, I guess the only stuff that bothers me, and it’s not my position to really judge him, but it’s the legal stuff you know what I mean?” Big E continued. “I take some pride in when I look around our locker room, and I’m not saying things are perfect, but I want to be in a locker room with people who are good people who obey the law, you know what I mean? Who aren’t getting in trouble and that’s the only thing.”

You don’t get a nickname like the Notorious One without being a bit of a rebel, and much has been publicized about Conor’s wild side. However, it would seem that Big E at least, could see being Conor McGregor as being the best for business.

Dr Britt Baker D.M.D has a big test ahead of her if she wants to keep hold of her AEW Women’s Championship. She is facing Nyla Rose on Night 2 of Fyter Fest this week. However, if her recent social media interaction is anything to go by, the doctor will show no mercy this Wednesday night.

However, Dr Britt Baker will need to do more than just sweep the leg if she wants to beat Nyla Rose and walk out with the championship still around her waist.

This past weekend fans found Dr Britt Baker hanging out with Martin Kove at a Comicpalooza event. Hopefully, Britt was able to pick up a few pointers from the ultimate karate badass which could help her take down the beast.

AEW invested a long time in Dr Britt Baker, and her organic growth in popularity especially following her Light’s Out match with Thunder Rosa make her a huge draw. Having her drop the title so soon would be a shock. However, shocks happen in wrestling all the time.

Dr Britt Baker Knows There Are No Losers in AEW’s Dojo

A fight with Nyla Rose is always going to be a hard-hitting affair, however, the best has been felled before. Dr Britt Baker D.M.D knows what she has to do, and will undoubtedly dig deep in order to get the job done.

All she needs to do is remember that Mercy is for the weak. Here, in the AEW Ring, in competition. A beast confronts you; they are the enemy. An enemy deserves no mercy.

Night 2 of AEW Fyter Fest has the makings of a great night of action, including a Texas Death Match for the IWGP US Championship. However, all eyes will be on Dr Britt Baker as she aims to continue building her legacy as the face of AEW.

There were several shock moments on RAW last night. With the return of live crowds, WWE went all out and gave it a RAW after Wrestlemania feel to it. Yet, on a night of surprises, there was one moment that stands prouder than the rest. The shock defeat of Karrion Kross at the hands of Jeff Hardy. After the match, Kross’s valet Scarlett took to social media to share her thoughts.

It was strange that Scarlett was not by Karron’s side for his main roster debut. Nor was she backstage for RAW. Regardless, that didn’t stop her from saying a few words.

“This is only the beginning,” she said in a short but direct tweet.

The loss certainly came as a surprise, and fans can only assume that this will be used to present an even angrier Karrrion Kross to the audience. However, it remains a baffling way to introduce the man to the RAW audience.

Scarlett on Damage Control After Quick Loss for Karrion Kross

The tweet from Scarlett could have been a form of damage control for her fighter. The loss to Jeff Hardy came barely two minutes into a match, from a powerbomb, a move that is nowadays as common as a headlock. Yes, Jeff Hardy had his feet on the ropes, but Karrion Kross was fresh. WWE spent the entire evening building up to his debut, and for it to end in such a quick and surprising fashion can only be regarded as an upset.

As of the time of writing, Kross and Scarlett are both firmly part of the NXT roster. His debut would seem to be a once-off affair, at least until the NXT title has been removed from his waist. However, it would seem from Scarlett’s words and Kross’s post-match statement, that the feud with Hardy is just beginning.

EC3 was a shadow of his former self during his time with WWE. He has spoken openly about how he has only just started to refind the passion WWE stripped away from him. Talking in more detail during an interview with Wrestling Epicenter, he went on to talk about how he went to great lengths to put his WWE run behind him.

EC3 spoke about the need to make sure the past was left in the past. In a speech that was heavily laced with frustration and an eagerness to not just move on but forget the experience entirely.

 “As long as you live in the past, you’ll forever remain in the past,” EC3 said. “So if you’re shopping at a Target and you see your likeness, your image captured in toxic chemicals made in China sold for commerce. When something destroyed a part of your soul and took your pride and tried to destroy your passion, you truly have to let everything go! Let that which does not matter slide. So I threw out my own action figure. Eventually, I burnt one too. If you’re going to destroy your past, you must commit. If you’re going to do something, go all in. Be bold! Be brave! Don’t stop! Sometimes things work out, sometimes they don’t. Everything happens for a reason.” EC3 said

EC3 is Focusing on Building a Future Not Looking to the Past

A man reborn, EC3 is very much focused on the future. His words scream of finality with WWE. He has since signed with Ring of Honor and is excited to get back to doing what he loves. A love that he openly admits was stripped away by WWE.

When the interview pressed on why he was released, or what reasons he was given, EC3 had no answer.

“That’s not a question for me,” EC3 said. “That is a question you would have to ask the powers that be there.”

He is simply a man happy to be looking forward. Moreover, he has no plans to look back or waste time ruminating on things that he has no interest in. EC3 is not alone in expressing his relief at finding his ‘freedom’. However, he is certainly dedicated to cleansing himself with all eyes on the horizon.

WWE’s Jeff Hardy is the ‘Charismatic Enigma’ and this certainly extends beyond his in-ring antics. Known for his creative side in all avenues of life, he recently took to social media to debut a new poem he had written. The words were scribed ahead of his return to RAW this week, moreover, as an ode to the fans who returns alongside him.

In fact, Jeff Hardy returned to claim what can only be classed as a shock victory over the debuting Karrion Kross.

Universal Adrenaline: A Poem

2020 shortly evolved into the unknown,

A return to silence made me question everything.

Hearing your voices only in my head,

From past memories your chants are engraved in my brain.

It feels like a decade since you’ve been gone,

Virtual worlds have reset normality.

I imagine a world without the pandemic,

A world where sanity and insanity develop a perfect compromise.

In this world were close,

In this world we were free,

In this world we were fearless,

It’s been over a year since I’ve seen your smiles.

The empty arenas are about to fill,

Adrenaline again changing now from then.

Re-emerging to life,

Re-inventing the show,

Re-creating the auroa,

Re-assuring, I know.

It feels like a decade since I’ve felt it,

The virtual worlds have replaced live energy.

It’s time to get it back,welcome back,

It’s time to re-engage, turn the viral page of WWE’s infinitive chapter,

It’s Universal eternal, inspiring ever after

I see a world without the pandemic,

A world where you and I develop the perfect adrenaline.

In this world we are close and free,

In this world we are bold and fearless,

In this world we are not alone,

In this world we are home, again

• Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy Lead a Night of Returns for Monday Night Raw

It was a big night for Jeff Hardy. Not only did he create his work of lyrical art, but he returned to action in stunning fashion. He also marked the return of live audiences with the return of his No More Words entrance theme.

It was certainly a big night for the multi-time champion as he became the first man to ever defeat Karrion Kross via pinfall. However, the manner of his victory is teasing a heel turn for Jeff Hardy. Hardy’s last heel run came in 2011, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out.