Zelina Vega has revealed her goal to become a champion in WWE and will go the extra mile to achieve that.

Over the years, Zelina Vega’s role in WWE has evolved. From serving as a manager to becoming an active in-ring performer, her career has seen a major shift. She has also become a part of LWO and one of the biggest moments in her career took place last year when she faced Rhea Ripley at Backlash in Puerto Rico where she received a grand ovation from the fans.

Zelina Vega has also showcased impressive performances in the recent past and earned support from the fans. However, her momentum was lost at the end of last year and has been striving ever since. 

On last week’s SmackDown, Zelina Vega competed qualifying match for the Women’s Elimination Chamber match against Tiffany Stratton in a losing effort. 

On last night’s Raw, Vega yet again had the chance to qualify as she competed in the Last Chance Battle Royal. However, her arch-rival Elektra Lopez eliminated her and Raquel Rodriguez eventually emerged victorious by last eliminating Chelsea Green. 

Zelina Vega: I will make sure that at some point, I am standing there as champion 

In a WWE Raw Exclusive, Zelina Vega shared her thoughts on her loss but said that she won’t back down and contend for the title. She said:

“I don’t think anybody could imagine…not many people know what it’s like to be just having the title within your grasp, and I’ve been chasing this since Backlash, okay, and now Rhea gets to go along to Australia and have exactly what I had in Puerto Rico. She gets to just have that love and be the champion, and it’s great, except now I’m here getting left behind because now I’m trying to get my hands on Zelina Vega-lite, Zelina Vega 2.0. Again, this is bigger than Elektra. I don’t care about Elektra. This is all Santos’ fault. Realistically, what did he do? He’s trying to find somebody to equalize me because I wouldn’t feed bus delusions? Is that really what this comes down to? I’m done with playing second-best or being in people’s shadows. I’m done with that. They get to go on to Elimination Chamber and go to WrestleMania, and have these amazing moments, and I’m stuck behind.” 

She added:

“I’m not gonna let that happen anymore. When I tell you that something in me recently has broken, I’m not saying that to scare anybody. I’m not saying it as a threat. I’m telling you, this is what’s going to happen, and it is a warning to anybody that gets in my way. Whoever walks out of WrestleMania the champion, that is who I’m setting my sights on, and that is exactly who I’m gunning for, to take that title. I don’t care if I’m on Raw or SmackDown. I will make sure that at some point, I am standing there as champion. I don’t care how I have to do it. But first thing’s first, I’m going to find Elektra. I don’t care if I have to rip this arena apart to find her.”

The 2024 Elimination Chamber event will take place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia. The show will start at 5:00 AM EST, and keep an eye on SEScoops for the coverage of the show.

WWE Superstar Raquel Rodriguez recently celebrated her massive win with WWE fan Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias on Raw.

Rodriguez surprised the Anaheim crowd on last night’s Raw when she returned to in-ring action on the red brand. Raquel Rodriguez competed in the Last Chance Battle Royal Match that also featured the likes of Shayna Baszler, Zoey Stark, Natalya and Chelsea Green. Rodriguez eventually emerged victorious to become the final participant in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match. 

Raquel Rodriguez celebrates with Gabriel Iglesias 

In a WWE Raw Exclusive, renowned comedian and known WWE fan Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias interviewed Raquel Rodriguez following her win. Rodriguez hugged Iglesias, and they both yelled with excitement. Iglesias then asked Rodriguez about her return.

“It feels good. It feels good. Those couple of months out felt like years to me. You don’t understand how crazy I was going, just being at home, walking back and forth like, ‘I gotta get back in the ring, I gotta get back in the ring, I gotta get healthy, I gotta get back.’ Finally, I’m here, and not only am I here, but I won, and I get to go to go Australia, and I get to go to the Chamber,” Rodriguez said.

Iglesias noted that he ran into Chelsea Green, and she was not happy. Rodriguez responded by saying that she lost, and she had eliminated Chelsea in other battle royals. Iglesias agreed that Green probably didn’t like her too much before he congratulated her again.

Rodriguez had been away from in-ring action for quite some time. Last month, she revealed that she has been diagnosed with a disease called Mast Cell Activation Syndrome [MCAS], which stopped her from competing inside the squared circle. Her last match before the hiatus was at a live event back on December 3. She suffered a loss against Nia Jax in a singles bout during the house show in Portland.

Now, she has a huge task at hand and will be eyeing to outlast the other competitors inside the brutal steel structure and head to WrestleMania 40.

The 2024 Elimination Chamber event will take place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia. The show will start at 5:00 AM EST, and keep an eye on SEScoops for the coverage of the show.

AEW star Darby Allin recently explained why he mentioned former AEW VP and current WWE star Cody Rhodes during his recent promo on AEW Dynamite.

Darby Allin and ‘The Icon’ Sting are set to team up for latter’s retirement match against The Young Bucks at AEW Revolution pay-per-view next month. Ahead of the highly- anticipated battle, Darby Allin grabbed the attention as he namedropped Cody Rhodes on the February 14 February edition of AEW Dynamite. The reference took fans by surprise and the former TNT Champion has explained his decision to mention WWE Superstar in hyping the upcoming bout.

Darby Allin gives credit to Cody Rhodes 

During a recent interview with Digital Spy, Allin addressed his decision to mention ‘The American Nightmare’ though the latter is not signed with AEW anymore.

“That’s easy because he’s the reason I’m in AEW. You think back to my debut, I wrestled him at Fyter Fest and we went a 20-minute Broadway draw. For him to take a chance on me that early… I was relatively super unknown still, I was never really the guy on the independent scene. He did that. You’ve got to give respect where respect is due. I feel very strongly on paying homage to how I got here because I never thought I was going to get here.”

Allin also addressed online criticism after his he cut the promo but he highlighted the importance of his history with the company and mentioned Rhodes’ contribution in his career and in the company overall. He said:

“I only pay attention to what I think, I really don’t care about what anyone else thinks. You’ve just got to listen to yourself about things. I really felt it was important for me to tell my part of the story leading into that match and not just be this second-rate character going into the match. I have a lot of things I wanted to say to the Young Bucks and I said it and so be it. I just want to go out there and speak my mind on things.”

Allin will team with Sting to defend the AEW Tag Team Championship against The Young Bucks (Matthew and Nicholas Jackson) at AEW Revolution pay-per-view on March 3 at Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina.

WWE Superstar Grayson Waller has continued to pull off heel tactics and took a jab at 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes.

‘The American Nightmare’ recently won the Men’s Royal Rumble for the second time and he is on his Road to WrestleMania. While the road is bumpy, Rhodes is trying to overcome the hindrances and ‘finish his story.’ 

Cody Rhodes seemingly made the way for The Rock to challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 but that soon changed. After fans outraged and WWE received , the main event was reverted back to the original plans of Roman Reigns vs Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Universal title match at ‘The Show of Shows.’

This year, Elimination Chamber is heading to Perth, Australia which is Grayson Waller’s homeland. Ahead of the show, the Aussie star decided to take a shot at Rhodes.

Grayson Waller claims to have finished his story before Cody Rhodes

During the flight to Australia, Grayson Waller stated that he already finished his book and highlighted the fact that at least someone in WWE can finish a story which is a jab at Cody Rhodes. 

“Halfway to Perth and already finished my book. At least someone in WWE can finish a story”

Halfway to Perth and already finished my book. At least someone in WWE can finish a story pic.twitter.com/RrJIEIPZOM

— Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) February 19, 2024

This is not the first time Grayson Waller provoked Cody Rhodes. Waller also poked fun at Cody for being slapped by The Rock during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference.

At Elimination Chamber: Perth, Grayson Waller will host Cody Rhodes and WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins on his ‘The Grayson Waller Effect’ show. We will have to wait and see how it pans out.

The 2024 Elimination Chamber event will take place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Optus Stadium in the Perth, Australia. The show will start at 5:00 AM EST, and keep an eye on SEScoops for the coverage of the show.

AEW star Malakai Black recently competed in a singles match and this marks his first singles match since 2022. However, the match didn’t take place in AEW but in his wrestling school, the Dark Arts Gym.

Black has been competing in tag-team action alongside Brody King and Buddy Matthews since returning from injury in October last year. Black had suffered a slight calf tear and knee hyperextension that put him on the shelf for several months. Following his return, fans noticed that Malakai Black has not been competing in singles matches which sparked a rumor.

His last singles match took place in September 2022 when he competed for PRESTIGE. Meanwhile, his last singles match in AEW took place in June 2022.

Malakai Black competes in singles match

For those who are unaware, The House of Black leader runs this school, Dark Arts Gym with his wife, WWE Superstar Zelina Vega. He competed in its latest show. 

The Dark Arts Gym recently posted the full show on YouTube from their latest event, Dark Prospects: Ritual 1. Malakai Black headlined the event as he faced Orion. The match also featured AEW commentator Tony Schiavone’s commentary. The match lasted for almost 15 minutes and Malakai hit the Black Mass on his opponent to secure the win.

https://twitter.com/PuroresuFlow/status/1759346418035069250

Last week, former NXT star Bobby Fish also made his presence felt in Malakai Black’s Dark Arts Gym. He paid a visit to share his experience with the up-and-coming superstars.

Former WWE Superstar Elias, now known as Elijah recently suffered a loss in his first match after he was let go from WWE last year. 

Elias was released from WWE in September 2023 and was part of the first wave of talent releases following the launch of TKO Group Holdings. He had joined WWE in 2014 and during his run he became a 4-time 24/7 Champion. He is also a one-time Slammy Award winner (Best Musical Performance of 2020) and a one-time WWE Year-End Award winner (Breakout Superstar of 2018). 

Over the years, Elias was involved in high-profile rivalries with the likes of John Cena and Braun Strowman. However, he was always on the losing end. In 2022, he even re-debuted as his brother, Ezekiel.

With the Elias name owned by WWE, the former Superstar repackaged his gimmick and is now known as Elijah. It’s worth noting that the Elias and Elijah names come from the Old Testament prophet of the same name. 

Elijah suffered a loss against ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey

Elijah recently made his comeback to the ring at last night’s Wrestling REVOLVER event, where he faced ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey in a singles match. The former Elias was in great shape despite being away from the ring since May last year.

In the end, Mike Bailey defeated Elijah. The former WWE 24/7 Champion was furious with the outcome and launched a brutal attack on Bailey after the match, thus cementing his heel character.

He's here!! Elijah making his @PWRevolver debut!@_Iam_Elijah_ #RevolverWHAT pic.twitter.com/nQ3lysXEqP

— 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐕𝐞𝐧 (@WrestlingCovers) February 18, 2024

It's impossible for Speedball to have a bad match with anyone.
Elijah (Elias) hadn't wrestled since May 2023, and he looked great and is still in phenomenal shape.

TNA needs to sign him ASAP. Great match!! #RevolverWHAT pic.twitter.com/zuPWsTSqgo

— 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐕𝐞𝐧 (@WrestlingCovers) February 18, 2024

We will now have to wait and see what the future holds for Elijah.

AEW star Rush is currently working on getting a Visa through AEW. That doesn’t mean he was not injured.

‘El Toro Blanco,’ leads La Faccion Ingobernable which consists of Dralistico, Preston Vance, and Jose The Assistant. He recently revealed that he is planning to expand the faction this year. He has missed AEW action due to an injury and has been on the shelf for quite some time. 

In December last year, Rush participated in the AEW Continental Classic tournament but he pushed through an injury. He was part of the Gold League where he racked six points by defeating Mark Briscoe and Jay Lethal. However, he faced losses to Jay White, Jon Moxley, and Swerve Strickland.

Rush managed to battle through his injury to compete in the tournament. After being on the shelf for more than a months he recently took to Twitter and announced his impending return.

Meanwhile, fellow AEW superstar and La Faccion Ingobernable member Dralistico recently stated that he and Rush were in the process of getting their visas. This led to many believing that the visa issue was the actual reason he was not on AEW programming.

Rush clarifies

Taking to Twitter/X, Rush cleared the air regarding his absence. He wrote:

“I was injured as confirmed by AEW doctors. Now I am recovered, I had a visa with someone else and now in the process of getting my visa through AEW. Stop posting bullshit for fucking likes. I don’t ever lie about injuries.”

I was injured as confirmed by AEW doctors. Now I am recovered, I had a visa with someone else and now in the process of getting my visa through AEW.

Stop posting bullshit for fucking likes.
I don’t ever lie about injuries. https://t.co/uZebN1mcl1

— RUSH OFICIAL (@rushtoroblanco) February 18, 2024

It is currently not known when Rush will make his comeback to the programming. We will now have to wait and see.

WWE legend Shane McMahon’s son Kenyon McMahon recently made the announcement that he has committed to play college football. 

Each of Shane’s sons has impressed in their respective athletic fields. Kenyon McMahon is now committed to college football as a safety and wideout for UNC. With his brother Declan playing for Indiana University, eyes are on Kenyon McMahon as well.

Meanwhile, Shane McMahon has not appeared on WWE television since suffering an injury in a match against The Miz at WrestleMania 39.

Kenyon McMahon: I’m extremely blessed and excited

Shane’s son Kenyon McMahon took to social media and announced his commitment to play college football for the University of North Carolina. The post reads:

“I’m extremely blessed and excited to announce my commitment to play football at the University of North Carolina. #GoHeels”

I’m extremely blessed and excited to announce my commitment to play football at the University of North Carolina. #GoHeels pic.twitter.com/gmETMhwilK

— Kenyon McMahon (@KenyonJMcMahon) February 5, 2024

Kenyon is listed at 6’1?, 170-pound, and played safety and wide receiver at Poly Prep Country Day School in Brooklyn, New York.

Meanwhile, Declan McMahon started with Indiana University in 2023 and is listed as a running back, but did not see a snap last season.

At WWE Fastlane last year, Declan appeared alongside other Indiana Hoosiers football team players. Speaking with Jim Varsallone of the Miami Herald, Declan discussed focusing on his football career. However, he also stated that he has been impressed by the WWE’s Performance Center. 

“I went down there once and it’s gorgeous. Obviously being in Florida, which is one of the greatest places to live. Especially with state tax and everything. The weight room in there [the Performance Center] is amazing. They’ve got a ton of rings. It’s just great because obviously when you’re wrestling it’s not only about how you look it’s about how safe you can be and how you can protect who you’re in the ring with.”

Well, someday Declan could hit the squared circle just like his father. He also has his debut plan plotted and you can read about it below:

Pro Wrestling legend Tommy Dreamer recently snubbed the reports of replacing Scott D’Amore as TNA Head of Creative. Now, more reports have come to light regarding who is the captain of the ship. 

D’Amore was recently released as TNA President and has been replaced by Anthem Entertainment’s President Anthony Cicione. Reports suggest that Anthem, TNA’s parent company, wanted to have a closer connection to the promotion and thus Cicione was appointed.

Scott D’Amore even attempted to purchase TNA Wrestling and made a serious offer to Anthem. D’Amore’s offer was not in response to the success of TNA Hard to Kill show. This week, reports emerged that Tommy Dreamer is running TNA’s creative now that D’Amore has gone. This led to Dreamer’s name trending on social media. However, the former ECW star snubbed the reports.

Who is in charge of TNA Creative?

PWInsider has confirmed that:

“Ariel Shnerer will be overseeing all TNA content going forward and will be working in conjunction with new TNA President Anthony Cicione. It will be Shnerer who will have the last word on any talent and creative decisions, although Cicione will be the top of the pyramid.” 

Shnerer is the former General Manager of the Fight Network and has been associated with TNA since Anthem acquired the company. He has made appearances on TV from time to time as Dr. Ariel. 

However, he has been a key figure backstage and manages the distribution of TNA across Anthem. He was involved in bagging TNA’s deal for DAZN and several TNA streaming deals for Roku and Pluto TV, among other platforms. He also lead the way for the launch of TNA+ streaming service.

In addition to this, the outlet has reported that the existing TNA Creative team of Tommy Dreamer, RD Evans and Hunter “Delirious” Johnston “will remain in place and continue to work as they did prior to Scott D’Amore’s departure.”

Moreover, TNA Hall of Famer Gail Kim will be supporting the group as she was one of the top officials for the company backstage in the past and has been heavily involved whether it’s talent relations or production. 

It has also come to light that Jorge Barbosa has joined the creative process. Barbosa served as a Senior Producer for Anthem Sports & Entertainment for a long time and was the person behind all Fight Network Diary documentaries that focused on TNA and MMA personalities.

Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) is currently one of the hottest free agents in the market and she has teased the fans about her upcoming move.

Moné had a successful run with WWE before she departed in 2022 due to issues with the creative team. The former ‘Boss’ went on to make her mark in NJPW and World Wonder Ring Stardom while also becoming the IWGP Women’s Champion. Now, it seems that she is AEW-bound. 

In WWE, Moné captured the Women’s Tag Team Titles three times, two of which with Bayley. It has come to light that ‘The Role Model’ recently sent a touching message to her best friend, Mercedes Moné, and expressed her gratitude for their run together in the company. 

Taking to Twitter/X, Bayley shared a picture of herself and Moné with the Women’s Tag Team Championships and wrote:

“And we fought for them for over 6 years. For our division and more opportunity. Grateful for my time with you,” she wrote.

Mercedes Moné responds

 Mercedes Moné took note of the post and replied:

“Wait till you see what I’m fighting for next.”

Wait till you see what I’m fighting for next ??? https://t.co/k4HvsL4sw0

— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) February 17, 2024

On a recent edition of AEW Dynamite, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed that the March 13, episode of Dynamite will take place at the TD Garden in Boston, MA. The location and the show’s name being billed “Big Business” has created a buzz that Mercedes Moné will make her debut at the show.

It seems that Moné has already inked a deal with AEW and has been on AEW’s payroll since early January. It’s worth noting that Moné also made her presence felt at AEW All In: London last year. 

We will have to wait and see if Mercedes Moné shows up in AEW on March 13.

The Rock is set to grace the 2024 NASCAR Daytona 500 and will serve as the Grand Marshal on Sunday, February 18. It seems he’s pretty excited to be a part of the racing spectacle. 

‘The Great One’ remains to be one of the greatest wrestlers in WWE and has attained massive success in Hollywood as well. Recently. he was appointed to TKO Board of Directors and grabbed headlines with his actions at the WrestleMania 40 Kickoff Press Conference in Las Vegas. 

The Rock has a huge role in NASCAR as well. The announcement of serving as the Grand Marshal was made during the NFL’s NFC Championship game on FOX. The Daytona 500 race is also set to be on the same network. The race is set to take place on February 18, 2024 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.

The Rock comments on Sunday’s race

The Rock took to his Instagram account and hyped Dayton 500 and his role as the Grand Marshal.

“Man I’m pumped to be the Grand Marshal for THIS SUNDAY’s ELECTRIFYING @DAYTONA 500 ?

The ENERGY, the MANA, with the KINGS of the road!! I’ve always had massive respect for the drivers and this sport— can’t wait!!

Truly honored to give the command, “Drivers start your engines”

~ people’s champ

@nascar @nascaronfox @xfl

ps – last time I tried to squeeze my big 270lb ass into a NASCAR car, I got stuck… so LFG ?? “

This marks the 66th edition of the Daytona 500, and The Rock will give the command for 40 race car drivers participating in the race. Well, this isn’t the first time a WWE star has served as grand marshal for NASCAR. 

The Rock had previously served in the role for a Cup Series race at the Texas Motor Speedway in 2004. Last year in October, former Women’s Champion Liv Morgan was also the grand marshal for the race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and in 2021. Former WWE superstar Sasha Banks was the honorary starter for the Daytona 500. Meanwhile, John Cena has also graced NASCAR races multiple times. 

AEW star Rush recently revealed that he aims to add more members to La Faccion Ingobernable.

‘El Toro Blanco,’ who has become one of the key figures in AEW, recently made it clear that he has bigger plans for his faction this year. He is expanding his already-dominating team, La Faccion Ingobernable which consists of Dralistico, Preston Vance, and Jose The Assistant.

Rush will add male and female superstars

Taking to social media, he stated that 2024 will see a bigger La Faccion Ingobernable, as a male superstar and a female superstar will be added to the group.

“2024 will see a bigger LA FACCION INGOBERNABLE I will add a new Man to the group And a WOMAN. NO PASA NADA #AEW #LFI“

2024 will see a bigger LA FACCION INGOBERNABLE

I will add a new Man to the group

And a WOMAN.

NO PASA NADA#AEW #LFI pic.twitter.com/yZXVNfELgX

— RUSH OFICIAL (@rushtoroblanco) February 16, 2024

In December last year, Rush competed through most of the AEW Continental Classic tournament while he dealt with an injury. He was part of the Gold League where he acquired six points by defeating Mark Briscoe and Jay Lethal while he endured defeats to Jay White, Jon Moxley, and Swerve Strickland.

The tournament took a toll on the athletes. Rush, however, battled through his injury to compete. He also recently took to Twitter and announced his return after being away from in-ring action for more than a month due to injury. 

“I WAS INJURED, AND NOW I AM CLEARED TO RETURN TO #AEW I HAVE BEEN HOME FOCUSED ON RETURNING LA FACCION INGOBERNABLE IS FULL OF ANGER AND READY TO START THE WAR #LFI #AEWDynamite,” Rush shared.

Rush inked a new deal with AEW in July and eyeing to achieve bigger things in the promotion. Last year at AEW Worlds End pay-per-view in December, Rush teamed with Lethal, White & Brody King to face Briscoe, Bryan Danielson, Claudio Castagnoli & Daniel Garcia in a losing effort.

WWE superstar LA Knight has a unique idea for Usher to perform at WrestleMania 40. But he wants it to be a collaboration. 

‘The Megastar’ has become one of the most popular superstars in recent times. He is currently on a meteoric rise. He receives a warm ovation from the fans irrespective of the venue. LA Knight has everybody saying, “YEAH!” along with him, and now he is trying to bring more energy at WrestleMania 40 with Usher. 

The R&B singer recently grabbed the attention with his stunning performance at Super Bowl LVIII. It seems that LA Knight feels there could be a collaboration between him and Usher at ‘The Show of Shows.’

LA Knight wants to come out to Usher’s ‘Yeah’

LA Knight recently made an appearance on WWE: The Bump and Megan Morant told Knight that she was thinking about Knight when Usher was performing “Yeah” at the summit clash. Usher’s “Yeah!” single was released in 2004 with rappers Lil Jon and Ludacris. 

After this, LA Knight pitched an amusing idea about performing at WrestleMania with Usher. He said:

“Wait a minute. Can we get this set up? Is he coming to WrestleMania for my entrance or what?… I’m coming out and I’m [performing ‘Yeah’] with him. Let’s go.”

As the WrestleMania 40 lineup is still being finalized, LA Knight is yet to have an opponent. However, ahead of that, he will compete in the Elimination Chamber match to determine the #1 contender for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40. He recently revealed his aim to capture gold at ‘Show of Shows.’ 

You can read more about his comments below:

Former WWE star Nic Nemeth (previously known as Dolph Ziggler) recently revealed that he was ready to leave WWE to explore new avenues.

Nemeth had a storied career in WWE but that’s all in the past. He recently ended a 19-year run with the company as he was part of the first wave of releases after the launch of TKO Group Holdings.

Following his release, Nemeth arrived in New Japan Pro Wrestling where he introduced his ‘Wanted Man gimmick.’ He eventually showed up in TNA Wrestling. Nemeth had previously disclosed that several individuals contacted him after his release and wanted to sign him into their company.

Nemeth will be a part of Title Fight Friday on night one of New Beginning in Sapporo on February 23. 

Nic Nemeth revealed he had been planning to exit WWE

Ahead of his debut, Nic Nemeth spoke to NJPW on whether there had been a big culture shock in that adjustment after his exit from WWE, or if was it more of an exciting process. Here is what he said:

“It’s a little bit of both. The first six or seven years of my career, I would get to every Monday after Wrestlemania thinking ‘well, this is the day when I’m gone!’ (laughs). So I would think about, OK, I can go back to school, go to law school, be a manager at Chipotle… you start thinking about all these things and get ready to go so you’re not blindsided by being told you’re released.”

The former World Champion revealed that he was well aware that he was a mainstay in WWE but still got to a point where he was determined to leave. He said: 

“But after about ten, 15 years of that I started realising, OK I’m a mainstay here, I’m needed. But I got to a point where I was ready to go. I’d asked the company a few different times whether I was ready to go, and they told me I was signed, and they weren’t letting me go. So I started asking them, ‘hey, can I start doing this, can I start something else’. So I was prepared to be done and to start exploring other avenues.”

Nic Nemeth further outlined how he prepared himself to attain what he’s been planning to. He said:

“I spent the last six, eight months, a year, saying ‘I’m going to be in the best shape of my life when all this goes down,’ and when it finally got to the point where I asked (WWE) enough and they gave me my release, then it became ‘OK, well you asked for this for the last five years, you’d better deliver.’ So, OK, I’ve got this, I’m doing this, I have insurance ready, I’ve been training in the ring, watching different things, and I’m ready to go. So let’s go.”

At New Beginning, Nic Nemeth is all set to challenge the inaugural NJPW Global Champion David Finlay for the title. 

Tiffany Stratton recently outlined the struggles of being on separate brands to her boyfriend and fellow WWE Superstar Ludwig Kaiser.

The two superstars have been in a relationship for quite some time and they made it public in 2022. Stratton had a remarkable run in NXT and was called up to the main roster after her impactful performance in the Royal Rumble. She signed with SmackDown and has been performing on the blue brand ever since. Meanwhile, Kaiser made it to the main roster as part of Imperium led by Gunther and they are active on Monday Night Raw. 

It is no secret that WWE superstars have a hectic schedule with weekly TV shows and live events on the weekends. Sometimes it can make an impact on their personal lives. Well, it seems that Tiffany Stratton is facing challenges to spend time with her boyfriend and Imperium member, Ludwig Kaiser. However, they are overcoming the odds and Stratton revealed that they are moving to their ‘dream apartment.’

Tiffany Stratton and Ludwig Kaiser will have a new home

While speaking on TikTok, Tiffany Stratton talked about reaching a huge milestone in their relationship and they will soon move from a one-bedroom apartment to their dream apartment.

“Actually, me and my boyfriend are going to be moving apartments soon and we’re gonna be buying, like, our dream apartment. Not buying, just renting, but you get it. But I’m so excited because we live in a freakin’ one-bedroom apartment and we just have so much stuff.”

“All these suitcases – we practically live out of suitcases, so we just need more room to store everything. I have so much freakin’ clothes, and, so does he, so we need a bigger closet, we need an extra room, we need it all, so I’m so excited.”

‘The Buff Barbie’ also revealed that they are facing challenges as they are on separate brands and the former NXT Women’s Champion noted the little they get to spend with each other. She said: 

“As some of you may know, my boyfriend is on Monday Night RAW and I’m on SmackDown, which means we have opposite schedules, which freakin’ sucks. We have the complete opposite of schedules. Like, he comes in Tuesday morning, I leave Thursday afternoon. We only have like two days together really because he’s on the live shows every single weekend. But, it’s okay.”

On last week’s SmackDown Tiffany Stratton defeated Michin. On the other hand, Ludwig Kaiser teamed with Gunther and Giovanni Vinci to take on Jey Uso and New Day in a losing effort on last night’s Raw. 

WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes yet again shared a heartwarming moment with a fan during this week’s Monday Night Raw.

‘The American Nightmare’ has proven several times why he’s a fan favorite. Even though he is a popular name in the pro wrestling industry, he has always tried to establish a personal connection with his fans.

At WWE shows, Cody Rhodes frequently makes time to greet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures. Cody’s modest demeanor has made a lasting impression on fans, regardless of the magnitude of the wrestling shows. He attempts to make every interaction unique and to make sure that his supporters feel valued and appreciated at the end of the day.

Cody Rhodes gifts his weight belt and shoes

The latest edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, emanated from the Kupp Arena in Lexington, KY. After WWE’s flagship show came to a close, Cody Rhodes had an interaction with a fan on birthday. 

After the show went off the air, Rhodes delivered a promo for the Lexington crowd. During his promo, he gave away a pair of his shoes to a kid in the audience. 

The 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner also gave away his weight belt, which he usually gives to the fans during his entrances. Cody went on to take pictures and shook hands with the fans concluding a great night for the fans.

@CodyRhodes gave away his shoes off his feet after Raw tonight pic.twitter.com/4nfkUs4wHr

— Mack🫶💜 (@Mack_Ripley3) February 13, 2024

CODY GAVE AWAY HIS SHOES TONIGHT @CodyRhodes

— hayley (@unstablemiz) February 13, 2024

Thank you @CodyRhodes and John Cone for making Gracie’s birthday that much more special and making her wish come true @WWE #RAW #WeWantCody #NightmareFamily #WWE #Lexington pic.twitter.com/xAQ29D0WR1

— Kris Dizzle (@krisdizzlekd) February 13, 2024

Cody Rhodes will face Drew McIntyre next week

During the show, Cody Rhodes spoke to the WWE Universe for the first time after he decided that he would challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40. ‘

The American Nightmare’ also made the save for Sami Zayn and helped fend off Drew McIntyre and Shinsuke Nakamura during their post-match assault on Zayn at the end of the show.

It was announced that Rhodes will face Drew McIntyre in a singles match next week.

Meanwhile, the show also featured a six-man tag team match with WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER and fellow Imperium members Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci taking on Jey Uso and The New Day. 

There were also three Elimination Chamber qualifying matches on the show as LA Knight and Bobby Lashley qualified for the Men’s Elimination Chamber match while Liv Morgan qualified for the Women’s Elimination Chamber match.

WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry’s son Jacob is following his father’s footsteps to greatness. He is on the rise and has a lot of potential. He’s already making his father proud with his performances in high school wrestling.

Mark Henry, often regarded as ‘The World Strongest Man’ has had a storied career. He had been considered to be one of the most formidable opponents back in the day. Mark is a former World Champion in WWE and was inducted into WWE Hall of Fame in 2018.

Outside WWE, he is a two-time Olympian and also had a very successful Strongman career. He was WDFPF World Champion (1995) and a two-time U.S. National Champion (1995 and 1997) and once held an American record in the deadlift.’

Jacob Henry, son of Mark Henry recently announced his desire to wrestle for the University of Oklahoma. He has an impressive high school athletic background. He recently revealed that he has won his 100th match in amateur wrestling.

100 total career wins. I’m very grateful that I was able to reach this accomplishment while winning my Regional/Sectional Championship. State is 4 days away. I have to finish the story ??? pic.twitter.com/8TxQDMSYMP

— Jacob Henry (@TheJacobHenry_) February 11, 2024

Mark Henry cheers his son

Mark Henry recently took to his Instagram account and proudly announced that his son won his 100th match in amateur wrestling in high school. The former World Champion posted a throwback photo of his son in his childhood and another photo was recently captured and depicts that he has come a long way. 

”Incredible job, Jacob! Congratulations on going over 100 wins in high school. This is something that can never be taken away from you. I can’t believe the little boy on the left is now the young man on the right. Never be satisfied!”

Jacob Henry attended Austin (Texas) Lake Travis and participated in wrestling, football as well as track and field. In his junior year, he attained notable shot put throws of 50-7 and 50-6 which earned him a top-four finish in the Texas 6A 285-pound weight class.

In his sophomore and freshman years, he showcased a feat of strength with shot put throws ranging from 48-10.5 to 49-8.

On the football field, Jacob Henry showcased his domination in the 2022 football season at Lake Travis. He concluded the junior season with impressive stats, tallying 46 tackles, 4 tackles for loss (TFL), 2 sacks, and 6 quarterback hurries. In his sophomore year, he racked 28 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 3 QB hurries. 

NJPW legend Kazuchika Okada will soon depart the Japanese promotion and a couple of farewell matches in NJPW have been announced.

As Kazuchika Okada is finishing up his career in Japan, NJPW has announced full cards for their upcoming New Beginning in Sapporo on February 23 and 24. 

‘The Rainmaker’ will soon decide his next destination. WWE and AEW have been in the race to obtain his services. In the increasingly competitive wrestling war between WWE and AEW, Okada is one of the hottest free agents in the market. 

As it seems, he could soon be a part of the AEW roster. However, ahead of that, he will compete in a couple of matches for NJPW.

Okada’s two matches have been announced 

Okada is set to team with his fellow CHAOS stablemates in two 10-man tag team matches against members of the United Empire.

On February 23, Okada, Tomohiro Ishii, Hirooki Goto, YOSHI-HASHI, and YOH will take on Jeff Cobb, Great-O-Khan, Aaron Henare, Francesco Akira, and Callum Newman. 

In his final match with the company on February 24, Okada will team with Hiroshi Tanahashi, Ishii, Goto, and YOSHI-HASHI against Matt Riddle, Cobb, Great-O-Khan, Henare, and Akira.

Meanwhile, Tama Tonga will have his final match with NJPW on February 24 as well. He will join forces with Tanga Loa to take on fellow Guerillas of Destiny stablemates Hikuleo and ELP.

The singles match between El Desperado and SHO on February 23 has been announced as a title match after SHO stole the IWGP Junior Heavyweight title during The New Beginning in Osaka on Sunday.

Card for NJPW The New Beginning in Sapporo, Friday, February 23:

• IWGP Global Champion David Finlay defends against Nic Nemeth
• NJPW World TV Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi defends against Matt Riddle
• NEVER Openweight Champion EVIL defends against Shota Umino
• IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion El Desperado defends against SHO
• IWGP Women’s Champion Mayu Iwatani vs. Mina Shirakawa
• Tetsuya Naito, Shingo Takagi, Hiromu Takahashi, Yota Tsuji, and BUSHI vs. SANADA, Taka Michinoku, Yuya Uemura, DOUKI, and Taka Michinoku
• Kazuchika Okada, Tomohiro Ishii, Hirooki Goto, YOSHI-HASHI, and YOH vs. Jeff Cobb, Great-O-Khan, Henare, Francesco Akira, and Callum Newman
• Ryusuke Taguchi, Togi Makabe, and Boltin Oleg vs. Yoshinobu Kanemaru, Yujiro Takahashi, and Ren Narita
• Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Yuji Nagata
• Toru Yano & Tomoya vs. Tomoaki Honma & Katsuya Murashima

Card for NJPW The New Beginning in Sapporo, Saturday, February 24 —

• IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Tetsuya Naito defends against SANADA
• Hair vs. hair: Yota Tsuji vs. Yuya Uemura
• Shingo Takagi vs. Taichi
• Hiromu Takahashi vs. DOUKI
• BUSHI vs. TAKA Michinoku
• Nic Nemeth & Ryusuke Taguchi vs. David Finlay & Gedo
• Guerillas of Destiny (Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa) vs. Guerillas of Destiny (El Phantasmo and Hikuleo)
• Kazuchika Okada’s NJPW farewell match: Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi, Tomohiro Ishii, Hirooki Goto, and YOSHI-HASHI vs. Matt Riddle, Jeff Cobb, Great-O-Khan, Henare, and Francesco Akira
• Shota Umino, El Desperado, Togi Makabe, YOH, and Boltin Oleg vs. EVIL, SHO, Ren Narita, Dick Togo, and Yujiro Takahashi
• Toru Yano & Tomoya vs. Tomoaki Honma & Katsuya Murashima

WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus recently acknowledged the 14-time Grammy Award winner Taylor Swift, who had a great time at Sunday night’s SuperBowl. 

Trish Stratus, a multi-time Women’s Champion is one of the greatest to ever step foot inside the ring. Her impressive athleticism and charisma, have left a memorable mark on the industry. She emerged as a trailblazer in the 2000s and captivated the fans with her in-ring prowess and alluring persona. She is a 7-time Women’s Champion which is a testament to her greatness. Well, she recently recognized Taylor Swift’s gesture at Super Bowl LVIII.

This year’s Super Bowl LVIII saw a thrilling finish as the Kansas City Chiefs emerge victorious. At the conclusion of the fourth quarter, the Chiefs were tied 19-19 with the San Fransisco 49ers. The match went to overtime and in the last second the Chiefs scored and earned the lead and captured the Super Bowl championship. 

Among some popular wrestling stars and celebs, was Taylor Swift. She was also spotted in the crowd enjoying the high-stakes match. 

Taylor Swift grabbed the attention when she pulled off the signature pose of WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus.

Trish Stratus reacts

The former 7-time WWE Women’s champion took to her Twitter/X account and posted a picture of herself and Swift doing a similar pose.

pic.twitter.com/ktTOJnanyM

— Trish Stratus (@trishstratuscom) February 12, 2024

Trish Stratus had returned to WWE last year and had quite the run. She competed at WrestleMania, Night of Champions, and Payback Premium Live Events and was involved in a storyline with Becky Lynch before departing.

Kylie Rae has made her return to the squared circle during a recent indie wrestling show.

Despite facing challenges along the way, including injuries and mental health, Rae has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination, cementing her status as one of the most promising talents in the industry. 

She has worked with several promotions in the past including All Elite Wrestling and Impact Wrestling. However, her mental health issues made a major impact on her career. She also took some time off from wrestling in 2020 and made her return a year later. She had competed for independent wrestling promotions and NWA. 

In 2022, she had participated in a WWE Tryout at their Performance Center. Rae went on to compete as “Briana Ray” against Dana Brooke for a WWE Main Event taping.

Kylie Rae returns to the ring 

Kylie Rae made her return to the ring. Rae responded to a call out and finally showed up at the ‘From Freelance with Love’ event by Freelance Wrestling. She answered an open challenge set by her husband, Isaias Velazquez. This marked Rae’s first match since February 10, 2023.

WHAT IN THE HELL!! MISS @IamKylieRae IS BACK #FreelanceLove @FreelanceWres pic.twitter.com/Rph3jLdyJY

— LC (@LaurenChristyy) February 10, 2024

Danhausen makes surprise appearance

During the show, AEW superstar Danhausen also made an appearance. He went on to challenge Trevor Outlaw and Frank The Clown to a match at the Emporium event on March 7. He is also set to work three GCW shows in March.

.@DanhausenAD is BACK!

After the surprise return of @FrankTheClown_ who was revealed as the masked attacker, Danhausen challenged @thetrevoroutlaw to a match on 3/7 @EmporiumChicago! #FreelanceLove pic.twitter.com/Yv5lkpZkd1

— Freelance Wrestling (@FreelanceWres) February 10, 2024

Last year, Kylie Rae and Isaias Velazquez revealed that they were expecting their first child and were blessed with baby Breccon in October.

Meanwhile, it was also last year that ahead of AEW Worlds End pay-per-view, AEW veteran Chris Jericho faced allegations of misconduct with wrestler Kylie Rae. ‘The Ocho’ competed at the show but the fans were vocal about the allegations against him. Jericho was on the receiving end of “NDA” chants from the crowd in Long Island. In the past, Jericho had dismissed the belief that he is tied to an NDA relating to last year’s Brawl Out situation.

You can read more in details below.

It has come to light recently that independent wrestling promotions PROGRESS Wrestling and DEFY Wrestling are joining forces and have completed a merger.

Having a passionate fanbase, PROGRESS Wrestling has propelled numerous talents to international recognition. The promotion earned acclaim, setting a high standard with its jam-packed action. 

Meanwhile, over the years, DEFY has pushed boundaries and captivated audiences with its dynamic storytelling and in-ring action. With a commitment to showcasing emerging talent and delivering high-octane matches, the promotion has got massive recognition in recent past.

PROGRESS & DEFY merge

The two promotions decided to issue a press release on Friday announcing that they are merging. PROGRESS is based in the United Kingdom and DEFY is based out of Seattle in the United States.

? BREAKING NEWS

? PROGRESS Wrestling and DEFY Wrestling merge creating one of the largest global independent wrestling organisations.

? DEFY to join Demand PROGRESS PLUS.

? https://t.co/zbVpsrr2ir

DEFY TO SURVIVE: LUCKY NUMBER 7 will be the first official show under… pic.twitter.com/P2va1DEK42

— PROGRESS Wrestling (@ThisIs_Progress) February 9, 2024

Notably, after the merger, DEFY content will soon be available on PROGRESS’ Demand PROGRESS Plus streaming service.

PROGRESS has been around since 2012 and was sold to Lee McAteer and Martyn Best. In a statement from Best in the press release, he said:

“Lee and I really welcome Jim [Perry] and Matt Farmer joining us at PROGRESS, and this is a major step in our wider plans for more international collaborations. We previously had a strong content partnership with WWE, and we have a developing relationship with Japanese promotion Pro Wrestling NOAH. With DEFY joining us, I am sure that our many combined fans will be very excited to see what happens next.

We will be continuing our closeness in Philadelphia with us both having shows at The Collective immediately prior to WrestleMania 40, and we are planning our second joint show in London later in the year. DEFY will also soon be seen on DEMAND PROGRESS PLUS, our content and live streaming platform, in the very near future and we have some fascinating ideas to highlight the great wrestling talent we both work with.

The announcement was made mere hours before DEFY’s seventh anniversary event on February 9. DEFY Wrestling’s Jim Perry said:

“I’ve been an admirer of PROGRESS from the start, and in some ways, they helped inspire the creation of DEFY. We have known each other for a number of years, and been working on many collaborations, including our successful double-show in London last August. I’m very excited about the opportunities of our more formal coming together, and the fans can expect to see some really neat ideas emerging.”

It is certainly a major step and we will have to wait and see how this merger helps in amping up the quality of the wrestling product.

This week’s edition of Friday Night SmackDown was stacked with major segments and matches. It seems due to time constraints, WWE yet again excluded a segment from the show. However, it was later featured in a WWE-exclusive video on social media.

WWE SmackDown features some of the best tag-teams and one more has been added to the list. Following last night’s WWE SmackDown, it was revealed that two superstars have been repackaged as tag team partners and they were none other than former Hit Row member Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis and former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander. 

A few weeks back in a segment on SmackDown, Adonis spoke with SmackDown GM Nick Aldis regarding an idea that would get him back on TV. Well this might be that idea.

Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis and Cedric Alexander bring threat to tag-team division 

In a video clip posted on WWE’s official Twitter/X account, it was revealed that Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis and Cedric Alexander have formed a tag team and put the whole tag-team division on notice.

EXCLUSIVE: A whole new threat has comes to the #SmackDown tag team division in the form of @tehutimiles and @CedricAlexander. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/6rEm7O0XJJ

— WWE (@WWE) February 10, 2024

As per Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Cedric Alexander and Ashante “Thee” Adonis, were scheduled for a vignette on the show. However, it was cut from the show for unknown reasons.

Adonis had been a member of Hit Row with Top Dolla but the former has been on a singles run after the latter was released by WWE in September 2023. Meanwhile, another former member of Hit Row, B-Fab recently joined forces with Bobby Lashley-led group that includes the Street Profits as well.

Speaking about, Cedric Alexander, he was drafted to SmackDown in November, but hasn’t been on TV since two straight losses to Dragon Lee that month. He has some tag-team experience when he was part of The Hurt Business alongside MVP and Shelton Benjamin and the group was led by Bobby Lashley.

Pro wrestling veteran Paul Wight (formerly known as The Big Show in WWE) is set to undergo knee surgery. 

Paul Wight has had a storied career spanning several decades. He made a major impact on AEW when he joined the promotion in early 2021. His signing was a massive coup for AEW and he brought a veteran presence to the promotion alongside his wealth of experience to AEW’s roster.

Paul Wight returned to the squared circle on AEW Dynamite in November last year. He teamed with Kota Ibushi, & The Golden Jets (Jericho & Kenny Omega) and defeated Brian Cage & The Don Callis Family (Konosuke Takeshita, Kyle Fletcher & Powerhouse Hobbs) in a street fight. 

Most recently, Wight reunited with his WWE tag team partner Chris Jericho on the Chris Jericho Cruise. However, fans were concerned for Wight, who has had knee issues.

Paul Wight will undergo surgery

Over the years, performing in the ring has taken a physical toll on him and his body has started to show wear and tear and he revealed that he will undergo surgery. 

In this brief conversation with a fan on the cruise, Wight said:

 “I’m going to get knee surgery.” 

Apart from competing in the AEW ring, Wight’s presence provided invaluable mentorship to rising superstars of tomorrow and helped elevate their performances. With his larger-than-life persona, Wight continues to be an integral part of AEW’s ongoing growth and success.

Currently, it is not known when he is planning to get the knee replacement surgery.

Scott D’Amore was recently fired from TNA Wrestling and recent reports suggest that he tried to purchase the promotion before being dismissed.

TNA Wrestling recently got re-branded from IMPACT Wrestling. Scott D’Amore was the driving force behind the company’s recent surge in attention. However, he won’t be there to witness the business enter the subsequent stage.

D’Amore had been with TNA since 2003 and had occupied some important leadership roles while being instrumental in the company’s successful rebranding last month. Meanwhile, Anthony Cicione, who has worked with Anthem for the past 16 years supervising technical operations and managing many cable and digital channels, has taken his place.

The success of The Score was greatly attributed to his work as a sports content producer for the channel WWE before he joined Anthem. Cicione has taken the role of managing TNA Wrestling’s day-to-day operations. His extensive background in executive-level management, spanning over three decades, is certainly a valuable asset to the company.

Scott D’Amore made an attempt to buy TNA

As per a report from Mike Johnson of PWInsider, D’Amore made a bid to buy TNA from Anthem. The former President had backing from a major financial institution but his offer was rebuffed.

In addition to this, the change at the top of TNA had been in the works for several weeks and D’Amore learned around 10 days ago that he would be replaced.

It seems that the massive rebranding leading to Scott’s firing has left the talent shocked. Know more about the situation below:

The Rock recently grabbed the headlines with his actions at the WrestleMania 40 Kickoff Press event on Thursday evening. Is he allying with his cousin and the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns?

We are less than a couple of months away from WrestleMania 40 which will take place at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 6th and 7th. 

It has been determined that 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes will have an opportunity to ‘finish the story.’ Rhodes previously made the way for The Rock to challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40. However, this decision faced a massive fan backlash which might have influenced WWE to alter the decision. Rhodes clarified his choice during the WrestleMania 40 kick-off press conference as he faces Roman Reigns at ‘The Show of Shows.

Roman Reigns and The Rock left the venue together

Following the event, WWE cameras caught Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman leaving the venue alongside The Rock which raised more questions regarding their alliance.

https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C3HEfFKsc76

During the Las Vegas presser, Reigns said Cody was as irrelevant as his late father, Dusty Rhodes. Cody took a shot back and said if the grandfathers of The Rock and Roman Reigns were alive, they’d be disgusted with “The Tribal Chief.”

The Rock reminded Cody that when he talks about Reigns’ family, he’s talking about his ancestors. ‘The Great One,’ who seemingly turned heel ahead of the event, slapped Cody and both men had to be separated before a brawl could break out.

The Rock entering the fray makes the storyline more interesting and we will have to wait and see how this pans out heading into WrestleMania 40.