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AEW All In Texas Ticket Sales Are Off to a Slow Start

AEW officially announced All In: Texas a few months ago, which is set to take place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The event, scheduled for next year, will mark AEW’s first pay-per-view in Texas and the first professional wrestling event ever held at this iconic venue. Tickets for the general public go on sale Monday, December 9, at 10 AM CT via Ticketmaster.com and AEWTix.com, following a pre-sale earlier this week.

While the announcement has generated buzz, early ticket sales have been modest. According to Dave Meltzer in the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the pre-sale tickets sold were in the range of 2,000 to 3,000. This figure has sparked concerns about fan momentum, as AEW hasn’t achieved a 10,000-ticket first-day sale in several years. Declining television ratings, pay-per-view buys, and live attendance have contributed to the company’s broader challenges in maintaining audience engagement.

A stadium event of this scale presents unique challenges for AEW, and Globe Life Field, with a capacity far exceeding traditional wrestling venues, represents an ambitious undertaking. Time will tell if AEW can build sufficient excitement to fill the stadium.

Additionally, AEW has confirmed that its Worlds End 2024 pay-per-view event will take place on December 28, 2024, at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida, rounding out its schedule with another highly anticipated show.

Johnny Gargano Turns Heel, DIY Win WWE Tag Team Titles

In a dramatic turn of events, DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) became the new WWE Tag Team Champions, dethroning The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) on Friday’s SmackDown.

Originally, Shelley and Sabin were set to defend their titles against The Street Profits, but the scheduled challengers were mysteriously ambushed before the match. This unexpected development led to DIY stepping in as replacements.

The match was not without controversy. Tensions flared between Ciampa and Gargano, as Ciampa’s recent heel tendencies created unease within the team. The pivotal moment came when Gargano struck Shelley with a low blow while the referee’s attention was diverted. Sabin attempted to confront Gargano but was met with a superkick. Seizing the opportunity, DIY executed their signature finisher on Shelley to secure the victory.

This marks DIY’s second run as WWE Tag Team Champions. They previously captured the titles on the July 5 episode of SmackDown, defeating A-Town Down Under (Austin Theory and Grayson Waller). However, their reign lasted only 28 days, ending at the hands of The Bloodline (Fatu and Tama Tonga), who capitalized on interference from Solo Sikoa and Tonga Loa.

The Motor City Machine Guns’ reign as champions concluded at 42 days, adding yet another chapter to their storied legacy.

Ricky Starks Books Another Indy Appearance After GCW Debacle

Ricky Starks is set to return to make another independent appearance in January, this time for House of Glory (HOG) Wrestling. The AEW star, who has been on hiatus from AEW programming since March, will appear at HOG’s Final Warning event on January 25. The show will stream live on TrillerTV+ at 6 p.m. ET and will take place in New York City.

Starks will face Mike Santana in House of Glory debut on January 17th in Chicago. HOG announced Starks’ debut on Twitter.

This marks Starks’ first booking with the New York-based promotion and a rare independent wrestling appearance during his AEW hiatus.

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Starks’ GCW Exit

The announcement comes shortly after news broke that Starks would no longer be appearing for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), despite having been set for multiple upcoming events. Starks made his GCW debut last month, cutting a promo and engaging in an angle with Jimmy Lloyd. However, AEW subsequently pulled Starks from the following GCW shows:

  • December 14 in Los Angeles
  • December 28 in Seattle (unannounced match)
  • January 19 at the Hammerstein Ballroom (unannounced match)

The decision reportedly stems from critical comments made by GCW’s Effy about AEW President Tony Khan and his father, Shad Khan, on a recent podcast. While Effy’s statements have not been fully detailed, they appear to have led AEW to sever ties between Starks and GCW.

Despite this, Starks remains eligible to take other independent bookings, as evidenced by his scheduled appearance for HOG in January.

For more details, visit HOG Wrestling’s official announcement: HOG Twitter Announcement.

WWE LFG: New Competition Series Coming to A&E in 2025

WWE and A&E have announced an expansion of their partnership with the development of a new competition series. According to The Hollywood Reporter, A&E will debut WWE LFG, a show where aspiring pro wrestlers compete for a WWE contract while receiving guidance from iconic in-ring legends such as Paul “Triple H” Levesque, The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels.

The title LFG stands for “Legends & Future Greats” and will follow a format reminiscent of Tough Enough. Contestants will undergo rigorous training, participate in weekly matches, and learn the behind-the-scenes aspects of the wrestling business. Mentorship will be provided by celebrated stars, including Booker T, Mickie James, and Bubba Ray Dudley.

WWE LFG Mentors
WWE LFG Mentors

Executive producers for WWE LFG include Triple H, Lee Fitting, Ben Houser, Shawn Michaels, and Jeremy Borash, representing WWE, with Elaine Frontain Bryant and Brad Abramson producing for A&E.

In addition to LFG, A&E has green-lit two other projects with WWE:

  1. WWE’s Greatest Moments, a series that will highlight the most iconic matches and events in WWE history. Michael Cole is set to host.
  2. WWE Rivals returns for its fifth season, continuing its deep dive into legendary feuds.

“A&E has proved to be an excellent home for WWE content, and we’re excited to partner with their fantastic team on these new show concepts and the latest season of WWE Rivals,” said Triple H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer.

WWE’s Greatest Moments will also be executive produced by Triple H, Fitting, Houser, and Marc Pomarico, alongside A&E’s Bryant, Abramson, and Jonathan Partridge.

This collaboration continues WWE’s successful track record of creating compelling content that bridges sports entertainment and storytelling.

Bronson Reed Needs Ankle Surgery For WarGames Injury

Bronson Reed is set to be sidelined due to an injury sustained during his most recent WWE match. Reed suffered a right ankle injury after leaping off the top of the cage during the WarGames match at WWE Survivor Series.

The event, which took place six days ago, featured a star-studded main event lineup: Roman Reigns, The Usos (Jey and Jimmy Uso), Sami Zayn, and CM Punk battling The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa). Reed was part of The Bloodline team, who ultimately lost to the babyface team.

The word going around WWE suggests that Reed will undergo surgery next week to address his injury, according to PWInsider. Prior to the setback, WWE had scheduled him to face Seth Rollins in a series of steel cage matches during the company’s post-holiday tour.

Jimmy Uso was also injured during the match, breaking a toe during his own high-risk leap from the cage.

The Rollins-Reed feud has been a highlight on WWE television in recent months, marking a pivotal moment in Reed’s career. The rivalry, intertwined with WWE’s most compelling storyline, helped elevate Reed’s status with fans.

We wish Bronson Reed a speedy recovery and look forward to his return to the ring.

John Cena and Eric Andre to Star in Netflix’s ‘Little Brother’

John Cena and Eric Andre will co-star in the upcoming Netflix film Little Brother. According to Deadline, the film’s plot centers on “a famous real estate agent whose carefully curated world is upended when his eccentric little brother unexpectedly reappears.”

The screenplay, crafted by Jarrad Paul and Andrew Mogel, brings this intriguing premise to life, with David Bernad and Ruben Fleischer serving as producers. Additional details, including the rest of the cast, production start date, and release date, have not yet been revealed.

John Cena’s impressive filmography continues to expand. In 2024, he starred in Ricky Stanicky, Jackpot, and Argylle. Past highlights include Blockers, Barbie, The Suicide Squad, Trainwreck, Vacation Friends, and the ninth and tenth installments of the Fast & Furious franchise.

John Cena ‘Really Grateful’ For His Cameo In Barbie

Next on Cena’s slate is the live-action feature Matchbox – a collaboration between Skydance, Mattel Films, and Apple – and the highly anticipated second season of Max’s original series Peacemaker.

Outside of Hollywood, Cena is preparing for his farewell WWE tour in 2025. His final in-ring appearances are set for WWE events such as Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania 41.

Throughout the year, Cena plans to wrestle at 36 WWE events, marking the culmination of his storied wrestling career. Fans can also watch Cena appear at Netflix’s first-ever Raw episode, airing January 6, 2025, in Los Angeles.

CM Punk Comments On Potential Match With John Cena On His Retirement Tour

Iron Survivor Challenge Matches & More Finalized For WWE NXT Deadline

WWE’s NXT Deadline 2024 event is set to electrify fans this Saturday, December 7, 2024, at The Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With the card now finalized, the stage is set for an action-packed evening featuring high-stakes matches and intense rivalries.

Key Additions to the Card

This week’s episode of NXT saw the final slots in the Iron Survivor Challenge matches filled. Eddy Thorpe secured his place in the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge after winning a last-chance qualifier, while Wren Sinclair did the same for the Women’s match.

Two other bouts have been added to the lineup:

  • Tag Team Battle Royal Fallout: Myles Borne and Tavion Heights of No Quarter Catch Crew emerged victorious in a massive Battle Royal, defeating teams like Gallus (Mark Coffey & Wolfgang), OTM (Bronco Nima & Lucien Price), and The D’Angelo Family. They’ve earned a shot at the NXT Tag Team Championships, held by Axiom and Nathan Frazer.
  • NXT Underground Match: Lola Vice will square off against Jaida Parker in a match born from Parker’s direct challenge. The underground format promises a brutal and gritty clash.

The pre-show kicks off at 7 PM ET, with the main card starting at 8 PM ET.

Updated Match Card for NXT Deadline 2024

  • Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge (Winner becomes the #1 Contender for the NXT Championship):
    Wes Lee vs. Je’Von Evans vs. Nathan Frazer vs. Ethan Page vs. Eddy Thorpe
  • Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge (Winner becomes the #1 Contender for the NXT Women’s Championship):
    Sol Ruca vs. Stephanie Vaquer vs. Zaria vs. Giulia vs. Wren Sinclair
  • WWE NXT Championship Match:
    Trick Williams (c) vs. Ridge Holland
  • NXT Tag Team Championship Match:
    Axiom & Nathan Frazer (c) vs. Myles Borne & Tavion Heights
  • NXT Underground Match:
    Lola Vice vs. Jaida Parker

Stay tuned to SEScoops for breaking news and live results from the show.

GUNTHER Close To Finalizing New Deal With WWE

WWE is reportedly working to secure GUNTHER, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion, to a long-term contract. According to PWInsider, negotiations are in their final stages, with GUNTHER either close to finalizing or having already signed a multi-year deal. While the exact financial details remain undisclosed, this agreement reflects WWE’s commitment to retaining one of its top stars.

GUNTHER has experienced championship success in every promotion he has competed in, and WWE has been no exception. From dominating NXT UK to shining on the main roster, he has consistently proven his worth. GUNTHER’s crowning achievement came at SummerSlam, where he won the King of the Ring Tournament to secure a title shot and subsequently dethroned Damian Priest to claim the World Heavyweight Championship.

Since then, GUNTHER has been a fighting champion, successfully defending his title on multiple occasions. Most recently, he defeated Priest in a hard-fought rematch at Survivor Series: WarGames. His next challenge comes against Finn Balor at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he aims to continue his dominant reign.

With GUNTHER’s in-ring prowess and growing star power, WWE appears intent on ensuring he remains a cornerstone of its roster for years to come.

Big Update on Becky Lynch’s WWE Return

There are new indications that Becky Lynch is nearing her return to WWE. Last month, PWInsider reported that Lynch is expected to return in time for the Raw premiere on Netflix in January. This suggests that WWE and Lynch are close to finalizing—or have already finalized—a new contract.

Adding to this speculation, PWInsider.com reported today that WWE is holding a significant media event this afternoon at Netflix headquarters in Los Angeles. Lynch is among the talents expected to appear, alongside other major names like Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, Liv Morgan, CM Punk, The Miz, and Bianca Belair.

The event will also feature WWE President Nick Khan, Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque, and top Netflix executives, including Bela Bajaria and Brandon Riegg.

Lynch made her first public appearance since stepping away from WWE last month, where she discussed her memoir in Los Angeles. The former WWE Women’s World Champion seems poised for a significant comeback, aligning with WWE’s push to spotlight its upcoming partnership with Netflix.

Lynch concluded her WWE commitments before her contract expired on June 1, opting not to re-sign immediately but taking time off with the expectation of a future return. On her way out, she notably helped elevate Liv Morgan by putting her over in two matches.

Drew McIntyre’s Dramatic WWE Return Came Sooner Than Expected

Monday’s episode of WWE Raw marked the highly anticipated return of Drew McIntyre, who had been off television since his grueling Hell in a Cell match against CM Punk at Bad Blood in October.

McIntyre sustained a severe head injury during the match, courtesy of a toolbox strike from Punk. The blow left him requiring 16 staples to close a wound on the top of his head. Following the injury, WWE decided to give McIntyre time off to recover.

McIntyre made a dramatic comeback at the end of Raw, targeting Sami Zayn in a surprise attack. Reports indicate that discussions about McIntyre’s return had been ongoing, but PWInsider notes his reappearance came sooner than expected.

According to backstage sources, Bronson Reed’s recent injury at Survivor Series may have accelerated McIntyre’s return. Reed suffered an ankle injury while diving off the top of the cage during WarGames, sidelining him indefinitely.

McIntyre is now set to appear at WWE’s holiday week live events, including the annual show at Madison Square Garden, where fans will undoubtedly welcome his return to action.

Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods Turn On Big E During Anniversary Segment

Monday’s WWE Raw took fans on an emotional rollercoaster as Raw GM Adam Pearce welcomed Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods to the ring. The segment, filled with props and nostalgic moments, celebrated a decade of The New Day’s success.

Woods expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support over the years, while Kofi reflected on their incredible journey, emphasizing how they couldn’t have achieved their success without the WWE Universe. But the mood shifted as Woods began to hint at unresolved tensions, assuring the fans that their love and appreciation weren’t to blame for what was coming next.

Before they could continue, Big E made his surprise return, receiving a thunderous ovation. He thanked the fans for their support during his recovery, but his tone grew serious as he addressed the discord between Kofi and Woods.

Big E reminded his teammates of their humble beginnings, recalling how their group was born out of desperation—when Kofi considered retirement and he and Woods were on the verge of being released. Big E recounted their unbreakable bond, from comforting him during his neck injury to supporting each other through life’s toughest moments.

With heartfelt words, Big E revealed his plans to serve as their manager until he is medically cleared to return to the ring. However, his declaration was met with skepticism and frustration from his longtime partners.

Woods questioned Big E’s timing, accusing him of abandoning them during their struggles. Kofi joined in, pointing out that other wrestlers like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Kurt Angle, and Edge returned after similar injuries, while Big E seemingly chose new opportunities over reuniting with them.

Big E defended his absence, reminding them of the severity of his neck injury, but his words fell on deaf ears. Woods and Kofi expressed their anger and disappointment, with Woods calling Big E a burden and Kofi accusing him of prioritizing himself over the team.

The segment ended on a somber note as Big E sought reconciliation, asking for a hug. Kofi refused, and Big E walked away, leaving the ring. In his absence, Woods and Kofi embraced, vowing to stick together despite the cracks in their friendship.

This emotionally charged reunion left fans wondering if The New Day can ever truly mend their bond or if this marks the end of their storied partnership.

Full Bracket For WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament

WWE has officially announced a groundbreaking tournament to crown the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion.

Triple H revealed the tournament bracket on social media, showcasing the talent competing for the historic title. The action kicked off on Monday’s Raw with a triple threat match featuring Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, and Katana Chance. Kai emerged victorious and secured her spot in the semifinals.

She will face the winner of another triple threat match between Zoey Stark, Raquel Rodriguez, and Kayden Carter. Meanwhile, the other side of the bracket promises an exciting clash as Lyra Valkyria, Zelina Vega, and Ivy Nile battle it out. The victor will advance to meet the winner of a match between Alba Fyre, Kairi Sane, and Natalya.

The announcement of the tournament and the new title came last week, though WWE has not yet confirmed when the first Women’s Intercontinental Champion will be crowned.

In contrast, the finals for the Women’s U.S. Title Tournament are set to take place at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14.

To view the full bracket, check out Triple H’s post on Twitter below:

Seth Rollins Gets Physical With CM Punk On WWE Raw

Monday’s episode of WWE Raw kicked off with high drama as CM Punk and Seth Rollins collided in a fiery verbal and physical confrontation.

Punk opened the show with a passionate promo, addressing his path to WrestleMania. He pointed to the stands, referencing where the iconic WrestleMania sign would soon hang, and laid out the potential routes to the grand stage—through the Royal Rumble, the Elimination Chamber, or perhaps by cashing in on a favor to secure his spot.

The tension escalated when Rollins entered the ring. He declared he should have taken Punk out the moment he returned to WWE and admitted regretting his hesitation. Rollins said seeing Punk aligned with Roman Reigns only fueled his resolve to correct his mistake by knocking Punk down.

Punk responded dismissively, stating he was done competing with people he wasn’t even aware were racing him. He reminded Rollins that, without a title, he wasn’t a priority for Punk’s future plans. He also warned Rollins to steer clear of his business.

The exchange boiled over into a chaotic brawl, with Sami Zayn, Jey Uso, and others rushing in to separate the two superstars. Before leaving, Rollins taunted Jey Uso, telling him to “run back to Reigns.”

The confrontation set the tone for what promises to be an explosive road to WrestleMania.

The Rock Shatters Several Records With ‘Moana 2’ Box Office Success 

Disney’s Moana 2, featuring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, has made waves at the box office since its release on November 27th.

The family-friendly adventure scored an incredible $225 million over the five-day Thanksgiving holiday, including $139.7 million during the three-day weekend. Its global debut tallied an impressive $389 million, with a $165.8 million international opening. The film claimed the top spot in every market except China.

A Record-Breaking Release

Moana 2 shattered numerous records in its opening week. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the highlights include:

  • Biggest 5-Day Debut of All Time
  • Biggest 5-Day Thanksgiving Earner of All Time
  • Biggest 5-Day Thanksgiving Nationwide Opening
  • Biggest Global Opening of All Time for an Animated Film
  • Biggest Walt Disney Animation Three-Day Debut of All Time
  • Biggest Black Friday Gross of All Time
  • Biggest Thanksgiving Day Gross of All Time
  • Biggest Opening Day for a Walt Disney Animation Title

A Historic Moment for Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne Johnson made history by simultaneously topping the box office with Moana 2 and Red One. This marks the first time an actor has had two #1 films in the same month, further solidifying his dominance in Hollywood.

Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, the animated sequel brings back Auli‘i Cravalho and Johnson as Moana and Maui. Returning cast members Rachel House (Tala), Temuera Morrison (Chief Tui), and Nicole Scherzinger (Sina) are joined by newcomers Hual?lai Chung, David Fane, and Rose Matafeo as Moni, Kele, and Loto.

Elimination Chamber 2025: WWE Returns to Rogers Centre with CM Punk

WWE has officially announced that the 2025 Elimination Chamber premium live event (PLE) will take place at the Rogers Centre in Toronto on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The announcement includes confirmation of several marquee names set to appear, such as CM Punk and John Cena.

Punk is fresh off a victory at Survivor Series 2024, where he teamed with Roman Reigns, The Usos (Jey and Jimmy Uso), and Sami Zayn to defeat The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa) alongside Bronson Reed in a thrilling WarGames match. Cena, who recently revealed his plans to retire in 2025, is embarking on a packed farewell schedule.

CM Punk Comments On Potential Match With John Cena On His Retirement Tour

With tickets set to go on sale this Friday, WWE has released promotional materials for the event. Featured stars include CM Punk, Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, John Cena, Jey Uso, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley.

The upcoming Elimination Chamber 2025 will mark WWE’s first return to Rogers Centre in over two decades. The last time WWE held an event at Rogers Centre (formerly known as SkyDome) was WrestleMania 18 in 2002, which featured the iconic “Icon vs. Icon” match between Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Hulk Hogan. Before that, the venue had also hosted WrestleMania VI in 1990, which showcased a historic match between Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior.

AEW Star Injured During Collision Match

AEW will be without one of its standout performers for the foreseeable future, as Juice Robinson sustained an injury during the taping of the November 30th episode of AEW Collision. The incident occurred on November 27th during a Gold League match in the AEW Continental Classic, where Robinson faced off against Will Ospreay. While Ospreay emerged victorious, Robinson suffered an injury that now sidelines him indefinitely.

Further details regarding Robinson’s injury or his potential return timeline have not been disclosed. However, fans spotted him on crutches during WrestleCade weekend, raising concerns about the severity of the issue. This setback comes not long after Robinson’s return to action in May at Double or Nothing, following back surgery to address a previous injury.

Robinson originally debuted for All Elite Wrestling in September 2022 in a hard-fought match against Jon Moxley. He officially signed with the promotion three months later and has been a prominent figure ever since, frequently appearing alongside his Bang Bang Gang stablemates.

We extend our best wishes to Juice Robinson for a speedy and full recovery.

WWE’s Plans For Raw’s Length On Netflix Still Being Discussed

The state-of-the-art Intuit Dome in Los Angeles is set to host the historic debut of WWE Raw on Netflix on January 6, 2025. The premiere episode will feature a star-studded lineup, including John Cena, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, CM Punk, Bianca Belair, and more.

Fans are buzzing with anticipation about how WWE will adapt Raw’s format for its new streaming platform. Netflix’s lack of fixed time slots offers the opportunity for a fresh take on the iconic program. This flexibility could lead to significant changes in pacing, structure, and overall presentation, providing a unique viewing experience for subscribers.

For months, Raw has operated with a two-hour runtime following USA Network’s decision not to fund a third hour under their previous broadcast deal. This transitional phase has positioned WWE to experiment with new formats as the show shifts to Netflix.

According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is still finalizing key details about Raw‘s runtime and its approach to advertising. The company must balance the flexibility of streaming with the constraints of international broadcast deals, which adhere to traditional time limits. WWE is exploring options for a consistent runtime and innovative ways to integrate advertisements into the streaming format.

In preparation for this groundbreaking debut, WWE will send Cody Rhodes, Liv Morgan, and other top talent to a promotional event at Netflix headquarters on December 3, 2024. This gathering is expected to build excitement and generate buzz leading up to the January 6 premiere on Netflix.

WWE Opposed Christian Cage’s Trademark Attempt (Report)

Christian Cage has reinvented himself while competing in AEW after joining the promotion a few years ago. However, he recently tried to bring back a nickname that he got over and used in WWE for years.

In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that Cage tried to trademark the term ‘Captain Charisma’ and was opposed by WWE.

It’s unclear whether Cage will appeal the filing as of this writing. Some fans could argue that he doesn’t need the name, considering his placement in AEW since joining the rival promotion in 2021 after returning to in-ring action after years of being in retirement.

Cage was hyped as Tony Khan’s Hall of Fame-worthy talent signing at the time. Since then, he has been used in a top position, challenging for the World Heavyweight Title and holding the TNT Title multiple times. He currently holds the right to a World Title shot of his choosing, something he attempted to cash in on at Full Gear last Saturday on AEW World Heavyweight Champion Jon Moxley only to be stopped.

After opting to sign with AEW over WWE, he filed to regain the trademark rights to the Christian Cage name. Cage was last in action on the November 13th episode of Dynamite when he teamed with Hangman Page to beat Bang Bang Gang (Jay White & Juice Robinson) in a tag team match.

John Cena Featured On New WWE Elimination Chamber Promotional Material

Earlier this month, WWE confirmed that the 2025 Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event (PLE) will take place at the Rogers Centre in Toronto on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Among the highlights of the event will be the presence of one of WWE’s biggest legends, John Cena, as part of his farewell tour.

Cena, who recently announced his retirement plans for 2025, has outlined a packed schedule leading up to his official sendoff. His appearances include the debut episode of Raw on Netflix in January, the Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania 41. In addition, Cena plans to work over 30 WWE dates, ensuring fans across the globe get the chance to say goodbye to the 16-time World Champion as he prepares to hang up his iconic jorts.

Promotional material for the Toronto event prominently features Cena, emphasizing the significance of his last appearance in the city. An email announcement sent to fans stated:

“Elimination Chamber is headed to Rogers Centre in Toronto on Saturday, March 1, 2025! This marks the second consecutive year that Elimination Chamber will be held in an international stadium, following this year’s record-setting event at Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia. Be there live to witness John Cena’s last time ever in Toronto.”

On a parallel note, Cena’s Hollywood endeavors continue to thrive. Filming for James Gunn’s “Peacemaker” Season 2 wrapped up last week, with the series slated for a 2025 premiere on HBO Max. Cena first brought the character to life in 2021’s The Suicide Squad, further cementing his status as a versatile entertainer across both wrestling and film.

AEW Pulls Ricky Starks From GCW Appearances

Ricky Starks will no longer be making appearances for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW), despite a recent setup for future involvement with the promotion.

Starks made a surprise appearance at a GCW event on Saturday, just hours before being backstage at AEW’s Full Gear. During the GCW show, he cut a promo referencing his frustrations with AEW, claiming he had been “frozen out” by the company. He interrupted GCW regular Jimmy Lloyd, who had mentioned Full Gear, and the two exchanged heated words. The segment ended with Starks laying Lloyd out with a DDT after being insulted, setting up a future match.

Starks has not been featured on AEW programming for months, despite repeatedly asserting that he is healthy and ready to wrestle. This led to speculation about his status within the company.

However, on Monday evening, GCW announced that Starks would no longer appear at several upcoming events, including the December 14 show in Los Angeles, an unannounced match on December 28 in Seattle, and another on January 19 at the Hammerstein Ballroom.

The announcement followed an interview Starks did with Chris Van Vliet earlier in the day, where he addressed his absence from AEW television. According to Fightful Select, sources within GCW confirmed that AEW made the decision to pull Starks from these appearances. The decision appears to be tied to recent comments made by GCW’s Effy regarding AEW President Tony Khan’s father, Shad Khan.

While some within AEW speculated that Starks was working his GCW appearance into a storyline, sources have confirmed that this was not the case.

Intercontinental Match Announced For WWE Survivor Series: WarGames

WWE has officially announced that the Intercontinental Championship will be defended at the upcoming Survivor Series: WarGames Premium Live Event.

On this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw, Bron Breakker faced Ludwig Kaiser in a singles match. However, the bout ended in controversy when Sheamus rushed to the ring and blindsided Kaiser, causing a disqualification. The chaos escalated as Breakker joined the fray, prompting security to intervene and separate the brawling Superstars. Amid the turmoil, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce declared that Breakker would defend his Intercontinental Championship against both Kaiser and Sheamus in a Triple Threat Match at Survivor Series: WarGames.

Event Details

The Survivor Series: WarGames Premium Live Event will take place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The event will stream live on Peacock, with the pre-show beginning at 4 PM ET and the main card starting at 6 PM ET.

Updated Match Card

  • Men’s WarGames Match
    Roman Reigns, The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso), Sami Zayn, and CM Punk
    vs.
    The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa) and Bronson Reed
  • Women’s WarGames Match
    Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, Naomi, and Iyo Sky
    vs.
    The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez), Nia Jax, Tiffany Stratton, and Candice LeRae
  • WWE World Heavyweight Championship
    GUNTHER (c) vs. Damian Priest
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship
    Bron Breakker (c) vs. Sheamus vs. Ludwig Kaiser

Despite Being Medically Cleared, Adam Copeland’s AEW In-Ring Return Is Still Delayed

Adam Copeland is on the road to returning to in-ring action after recovering from a significant injury.

During the Barbed Wire Steel Cage Match at AEW’s Double or Nothing pay-per-view event in Las Vegas, Nevada, Copeland successfully retained his AEW TNT Title. However, the intense match came at a cost. The brutal encounter featured chairs, tables, barbed wire, and other weapons, pushing both competitors to their limits.

Copeland sustained his injury while performing a high-risk elbow drop from the top of the cage. He landed awkwardly on his legs after crashing onto Black, who was positioned on a table. This mishap resulted in a fractured tibia, requiring a grueling 12-hour surgery.

According to PWInsider.com, Copeland has been medically cleared for physicality but is not expected to resume regular appearances with AEW until after completing filming for the second season of Disney’s Percy Jackson. Hollywood sources suggest production will wrap in January.

As of now, it remains unclear what AEW has planned for the WWE Hall of Famer upon his return.

WWE Planning To Introduce Women’s Intercontinental Title

Earlier this month, WWE launched a tournament to crown the inaugural WWE Women’s United States Champion, an exclusive title for SmackDown. Now, another major milestone is in the works for the Raw brand: the introduction of a Women’s Intercontinental Championship.

The Women’s United States Championship marks a historic addition to WWE’s main roster, becoming the first secondary women’s title alongside the previously established Women’s North American Championship in NXT. This progression highlights WWE’s commitment to expanding opportunities within the women’s division.

According to PWInsider.com, WWE plans to introduce the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, making it exclusive to Raw, mirroring the men’s title structure. While no official launch date has been announced, the move promises to bring further prestige and depth to the Raw women’s roster.

Meanwhile, the Women’s United States Championship tournament on SmackDown has progressed to the semifinals after an exciting series of opening-round triple-threat matches. The winners will face off in the finals at Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14, where the first-ever champion will be crowned.

Fans eagerly await both the culmination of the tournament and further details about the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, which could mark another game-changing moment for WWE’s women’s division.

AEW Grand Slam: Australia Expected To Move To Different Venue After Poor Ticket Sales

AEW will host Grand Slam: Australia on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The event was officially announced during the All In: London 2024 pay-per-view, following an earlier report by The Sporting News that the promotion planned a stadium show in Australia for 2025. However, ticket sales for the event have reportedly been underwhelming.

Suncorp Stadium, which has a listed capacity of 52,000 for football, may no longer be the venue for the event. Since tickets went on sale, reports of low demand have raised concerns. AEW has faced challenges throughout the year, including declining ticket sales and lower television ratings, potentially contributing to the poor turnout.

According to Fightful Select, a venue change is likely, with an official announcement expected soon. As of now, it remains unclear which venue might host the show instead. AEW will run All In 2025 on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, which marks AEW’s first PPV event to be held in an American baseball stadium and in Texas.

This development comes shortly after AEW’s successful Full Gear pay-per-view, which drew over 10,000 fans. The promotion returns to Chicago this Wednesday for Dynamite and Collision.

Paul Heyman Returns, CM Punk Joins The OG Bloodline’s WarGames Team

Paul Heyman made a shocking return on this week’s episode of WWE SmackDown, revealing the fifth member of The OG Bloodline for the upcoming WarGames Match at Survivor Series. The OG Bloodline, consisting of Roman Reigns, The Usos (Jey and Jimmy Uso), and Sami Zayn, will take on The Bloodline—Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa—and Bronson Reed.

Reed’s inclusion in the match comes amidst his ongoing feud with Seth Rollins on Raw over the past few months. Speculation had been growing that Rollins might join the OG Bloodline, as the group made one last attempt to convince him to reconcile with Reigns.

As Reigns began addressing the audience in a promo segment at the end of SmackDown, he was interrupted by Paul Heyman, who delivered his iconic “Ladies and gentlemen” line. Heyman humorously acknowledged his “math error,” referencing the time he was put through a table at Madison Square Garden, and pointed out the obvious: WarGames cannot be a 4-on-5 match. To even the odds, Heyman announced that he had found the OG Bloodline’s fifth member: CM Punk.

Punk’s return electrified the arena as he stormed to the ring to assist the OG Bloodline in taking down The Bloodline faction. The show closed with the babyfaces standing tall in the ring, leaving fans buzzing about the showdown set for next Saturday at Survivor Series: WarGames.

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