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Why Damian Priest Missed SmackDown

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest missed last night’s SmackDown due to a flight delay.

Last night’s Smackdown emanated from the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. However, he was forced to miss his scheduled appearance due to some travel issues. Though he is part of the Raw roster, ‘The Archer of Infamy’ was slated to put his title on the line against Jey Uso in a dark match after SmackDown.

However, he informed his fans that there were some flight issues and that he was “trying my best to make it.” Damian Priest couldn’t reach the venue in time for the show as his flight got delayed. Ahead of the show, he took to his X account, he revealed that his flight didn’t take off and was stuck on the runway. He apologized to his fans as he wrote:

“Unfortunately the honor of main eventing The Garden is not possible tonight. Still haven’t taken off. Stuck on a plane in a runway. Very disappointed and apologies to my people. This one hurts. Enjoy the show! #SmackDown I’m sure will be awesome”

The dark match main event was then changed to a Street Fight between Jey Uso and Finn Balor. The former emerged victorious over The Judgment Day member. There was another dark match in which the former WWE World Tag Team Champions The Miz & R-Truth defeated The Pretty Deadly.

Damian Priest is set to put his World Heavyweight Title on the line against Seth Rollins at Money In The Bank Premium Live Event on Saturday, July 6. The winner of the match will defend the title against Gunther at SummerSlam in August.

On this week’s Raw, Priest and Rollins raised the stakes for their match. The pair agreed to a stipulation that states that should Priest retain, Rollins will be barred from challenging for the title as long as Priest is the Champion. However, if Priest loses, he will have to part ways with The Judgment Day.

Posted June 29th, 2024 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Paul Walter Hauser ‘Excited’ After Being Added To MLW Roster

Actor-turned-pro-wrestler Paul Walter Hauser has been added to the Major League Wrestling (MLW) roster.

Hauser recently competed in MLW Battle Riot IV and seemingly impressed the management as he has now officially become a part of the roster. The New York-based promotion’s official X account announced that Paul Walter Hauser’s fighter bio is live on their official website.

Paul Walter Hauser shared his thoughts and said that he was “very excited” after being added to the MLW roster. He said:

“Very excited to be a part of the MLW roster!”

https://twitter.com/PWHIsAWrestler/status/1806204741304922234

Paul Walter Hauser’s pro wrestling career

Paul Walter Hauser gained attention of the fans across the globe with his performances in popular TV roles. He has also been a part of several movies and series including “Inside Out 2” and “Cobra Kai” and even bagged a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy Award.

The Golden Globe winner transitioned into a pro wrestler after having a successful acting career. He made his pro wrestling debut last year. Hauser has made a handful of appearances at wrestling shows. He also appeared on an edition of AEW Dynamite where Jeff Jarrett and co. stole his Golden Globe Award.

Hauser has competed in seven matches in his pro wrestling career. Apart from MLW, the 37-year-old star has worked in Pro Wrestling Revolver, where he had the majority of his bouts. His recent match took place against Danhausen at REVOLVER Cage of Horrors 3 on June 22.

Popular wrestler and MLW alum Paul London has been helping Hauser with pro wrestling training and it seems Hauser is not stopping anytime soon.

Posted June 28th, 2024 in MLW, News. Tagged: .

Liv Morgan Says She ‘Liked’ To Kiss Dominik Mysterio

WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan has continued to play mind games with Dominik Mysterio amid Rhea Ripley’s absence. She has now stated that she ‘liked’ to kiss ‘Dirty Dom.’ 

Last week, Liv Morgan stunned the fans with her actions after retaining her title against Becky Lynch in a steel cage match. Following the victory, Morgan locked lips with Dominik which created a massive buzz among the fans. She recently took to her X account and posted a picture in which she could be seen kissing a WWE production truck that had a picture of Dominik’s face on it. Her caption read:

“I kissed a boy and I liked it”

During last night’s Raw, Liv Morgan labeled her kiss with Dominik cherry on top following her victory against Becky Lynch. The Women’s World Champion continued to flirt with ‘Dom Dom’ until Finn Balor came out and said they had nothing to do with her. Later on the show, Morgan saved Dominik Mysterio from the wrath of Braun Strowman, who had attacked Carlito, JD McDonagh and Finn Balor.

Liv Morgan is not done with Rhea Ripley

Rhea Ripley has been on the shelf after suffering a shoulder injury at the hands of Liv Morgan. The latter has vowed to take everything from ‘The Eradicator’ and she went on to become the Women’s World title. Now she has her eyes set on Dominik. This angle between Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan is getting interesting with every passing week and fans are quite intrigued. Fans are anticipating to witness how ‘Mami’ will react after her comeback to the show.

Posted June 4th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , , .

Toni Storm Makes Surprise STARDOM Appearance To Challenge Mina Shirakawa At Forbidden Door

AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm recently issued a challenge to STARDOM wrestler Mina Shirakawa.

Storm made an appearance during the June 2 STARDOM event through a video as she challenged the Japanese wrestler for the upcoming AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view later this month. Toni Storm was featured with, “STARDOM legend” Mariah May. She said that she had her eyes on Mina, who has made appearances in AEW in the past. She said:

“Hello, STARDOM, this is your AEW Women’s World Champion and STARDOM legend ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm and this is my trusty protege and STARDOM legend, Ms. Mariah May. Mina-san, I see you’ve been at AEW when I’ve not been around but I’ve been watching you. Oh, I’ve been watching you.”

Toni Storm said that wanted to square off against Mina Shirakawa and she wouldn’t have to knock or ring the doorbell as she has kept the forbidden door open. 

“You do not need to knock, you do not need to ring the doorbell, because I have opened the forbidden door and I want you. Don’t worry, any friend of Mariah’s is a friend of mine. I just want to see what kind of woman you really are.”

While Toni issued the challenge, Mariah didn’t seem to be impressed. Toni’s protege Mariah May has been closely linked with Mina and teamed up with her. They have even shared a kiss on AEW. The match hasn’t been made official yet but the relationship between Mariah and Mina might come into play during the match.   

Toni Storm and Mariah May made STARDOM appearance in April

In April, Storm showed up at the STARDOM American Dream event in Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena (better known as ECW Arena). During that appearance, she had given her flowers to Mariah May and said she was proud of her understudy. That night, she also had eyes on Mina Shirakawa and told her that “the Forbidden Door is always open.”

Toni Storm is coming off a title defense against Serena Deeb at AEW Double Or Nothing. She is likely to face Mina Shirakawa at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden which is set to take place on June 30 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

Posted June 2nd, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: , .

Swerve Strickland Next AEW World Title Defense Announced

Swerve Strickland is set to put his AEW World Championship on the line against Roderick Strong on this week’s AEW Dynamite.

Strong dropped the AEW International Championship against Will Ospreay at last weekend’s AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view. It seems that the Undisputed Kingdom member has his sights set ton the AEW World title.

He picked up a win over Lio Rush on last night’s AEW Collision. He asked Tony Khan for a shot at Swerve’s title so that he becomes the one to defend the title at the upcoming AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door on June 30. Khan felt it was a good idea and agreed to his proposal to book the match for Dynamite. 

The upcoming edition of Dynamite will emanate from Blue Arena in Loveland, Colorado. The show will feature the return of MJF to the show after he made surprise appearance at Double Or Nothing. Meanwhile, Saraya is also scheduled to face Mariah May

Swerve Strickland captured the AEW World title after defeating Samoa Joe at AEW Dynasty last month. He made his first title defense at a pay-per-view against Christian Cage at Double Or Nothing. Following the match, Swerve celebrated with the fans in the front row as well as boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. 

Swerve Strickland already has another title defense lined up

During the May 29 edition of AEW Dynamite, a Casino Gauntlet match took place to determine Strickland’s challenger at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view on Sunday, June 30. The match was ultimately won by Will Ospreay, who is all set to challenge Strickland at the show. This will mark the third annual of the crossover event featuring AEW and NJPW stars. 

Well, Swerve Strickland also feels that this is the right time to have a WWE-AEW crossover. Read more below:

Posted June 2nd, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: , .

Mark Henry Impressed With AJ Styles’ Fake Retirement Segment On SmackDown

WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry has showered praise on AJ Styles for his fake retirement segment on SmackDown.

Style’s segment was similar to Mark Henry’s iconic ‘Retirement’ segment. Back in 2013, ‘The World’s Strongest Man,’ wearing a salmon pink suit, teased his retirement. He even gave a passionate speech and tearfully bid adieu to the fans. He pretended that he had his last battle. 

However, then-WWE Champion John Cena approached to hug him but Henry laid him out with the World’s Strongest Slam, creating one of the most iconic moments in Henry’s career. AJ Styles pulled off the same trick and it worked wonders for him. 

Taking to his X account, Mark Henry praised AJ Styles for taking a page out of his book. He wrote:

”…..well done AJ @BustedOpenRadio @WWE”

AJ Styles has his sights set on Cody Rhodes

AJ Styles was denied a second title shot against Cody Rhodes and he decided to take things in his hands. On last night’s SmackDown, ‘The Phenomenal One’ teased his retirement and addressed the fans. He called out Cody Rhodes to the ring and they shared an emotional moment. However, fans were stunned when Styles launched a brutal attack on ‘The American Nightmare.’ The former WWE Champion proceeded to hit Styles Clash on Rhodes from ring steps to the floor to end the show. 

‘The Phenomenal One’ had been attempting to claim the Undisputed WWE Champion for a long time. He failed to capture the title when Roman Reigns was the champ. He had another shot at the title when he challenged Cody Rhodes at last month’s Backlash: France. However, he once again endured a defeat. That match marked the first time they battled. It seems that AJ Styles is not yet backing down from getting another title shot. 

Posted June 1st, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

JoJo Offerman Feels Bray Wyatt ‘Visited’ Her: “I see you Windham”

Late WWE star Bray Wyatt (real name Windham Rotunda) is no longer with us but JoJo Offerman is still trying to feel the former’s presence in her life.

Bray Wyatt was engaged to JoJo Offerman before he tragically passed away at the age of 36 on August 24 last year. The couple has two kids. Taking to her Instagram story section, JoJo posted an emotional note, revealing that a moth visited her and landed on her glass and then on her hand before flying away. She believes that it was a sign from Wyatt and he was greeting her. Her caption read: 

“This beautiful moth visited me tonight while having a glass of wine and watching the kiddos play. It landed on only my glass despite other glasses being around and this same moth proceeded to land on my hand and sit there a moment before flying away. I see you Windham. I know it was you saying hello. I love you forever.”

Wyatt was dealing with health issues prior to his passing away. He was pulled from the WWE shows earlier that same year. He was involved in a feud with Bobby Lashley and a match between the two at WrestleMania 39 was in the pipeline. It is needless to mention that Wyatt has been one of the most beloved wrestlers of all time and his tragic death sent shockwaves through the industry. 

Bray Wyatt’s legacy is immortal

Peacock released a documentary titled: ‘Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal’ which premiered on April 1. The documentary captured his remarkable career and was narrated by WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker (Mark Callaway). Recently, WWE star Braun Strowman also stated that he feels Bray Wyatt’s presence.

Wyatt had one of the most creative minds in the pro wrestling business. His creation of Uncle Howdy, played by his brother Bo Dallas has kept the fans anticipated. WWE is currently building the return of Uncle Howdy with a series of mystery QR codes. Even AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland has said that he wishes to have a creative mind as deep as ‘The Eater of The Worlds.’

Posted June 1st, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Mercedes Mone Defends NBA Star Jaylen Brown Over Recent Criticism

AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone has backed Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown after the latter faced criticism.  On ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith claimed that his NBA sources texted him saying Brown is not “liked” due to his ego and that’s why he’s not marketable. Boston Celtics shooting guard responded to Smith on X and asked him to reveal his sources. 

Mercedes Mone also entered the fray. She backed Jaylen Brown and said that she wanted to have a chat with Stephen A. Smith’s source. ‘The CEO’ further questioned the identity of the ‘source.’ She also flaunted her AEW TBS title win and said she’s “super excited” to see Brown win the NBA title.

“Hey
@stephenasmith, from one #GOAT to another, The CEO wants to sit down with your source.
@FCHWPO, from one superstar to another, I just won my championship & I’m super excited to see you win yours. Keep lifting the game and the community the way you’ve been doing. Go Celtics”

Mercedes Mone has been an ardent Boston Celtics fan and she is often spotted in attendance for their NBA games. She was also spotted at a game following her AEW debut at ‘Big Business’ edition of AEW Dynamite in her hometown, Boston.  

‘The CEO’ recently made an impactful in-ring debut for AEW. She dethroned Willow Nightingale at AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view at MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. In the final moments of the match, Mercedes hit her finisher, Mone Maker, and captured the title on her in-ring debut. 

Huge match for Mercedes Mone teased 

During the latest edition of AEW Dynamite, Skye Blue was revealed as Mone’s mystery attacker which set up a title match between the two. ‘The CEO’ successfully retained her title and this marked her first title defense.

Following the match, CMLL’s Stephanie Vaquer, who is the NJPW Strong Women’s Champion made an appearance. As AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door is approaching soon, it seems that Mone and Vaquer could have a match at the pay-per-view.  

Posted May 31st, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Bryan Danielson Reveals How He Celebrated His Birthday

Bryan Danielson celebrated his birthday in a unique style.

‘The American Dragon,’ who turned 43, marked the occasion on May 22 in a different fashion. It seems his birthday wish was to test himself ahead of the chaotic Anarchy In The Arena match at AEW Double Or Nothing PPV. He told Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated that he was fasting for a day before going for a five-mile hike. He revealed: 

“I was fasting for over 24 hours. Meanwhile, I drove from Bakersfield [California] to Las Vegas, got in at midnight, and was up by 5:30 for a five-mile hike.”

Danielson’s birthday was last Wednesday and he competed against 7-foot giant Satnam Singh in the main event of AEW Dynamite. The veteran wrestler won via DQ after he was attacked by Jay Lethal and Sonjay Dutt. Eventually, The Elite also took him out until Darby Allin made the save.

Bryan Danielson competed in Anarchy In The Arena

The Elite (The Young Bucks, AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada, and Jack Perry) emerged victorious over the team of FTR, Darby Allin, and Bryan Danielson after a chaotic Anarchy In The Arena match at Double Or Nothing pay-per-view. Fans at MGM Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada were ecstatic throughout the gruesome battle. Bryan Danielson’s ROH theme song ‘The Final Countdown’ was also played in the background during the match which thrilled the fans even more. 

The final moments of the match saw The Elite taking out Bryan Danielson with their finishing moves. Jack Perry then secured the victory by pinning Danielson – one of the biggest moments in Perry’s career. AEW Double or Nothing went off the air as The Elite stood tall with Perry on their shoulders. 

Posted May 31st, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Giulia Discharged From Hospital After Undergoing Wrist Surgery

WWE’s newest signing Giulia has provided a positive update after successfully undergoing surgery.

The Japanese superstar recently went under the knife after she suffered a wrist injury. Taking to her X account, Giulia posted a photo of herself and revealed that she had been discharged from the hospital. She also thanked the fans who were concerned about her.

”Discharged from the hospital! Thank you to everyone who was worried about me! I’m fine!”

Giulia had suffered a fractured right wrist during a match on Monday, May 20 at the Marigold Fields Forever event. She had joined forces with Utami Hayashashita and faced former NXT star Sareee and Bozilla in a losing effort. She sustained the injury a few minutes into the match but finished the bout that went on for over 28 minutes. 

Following the injury, the 30-year-old wrestler had to withdraw from her upcoming matches including the Hana Kimura tribute show. However, she’s still scheduled to battle Sareee at Marigold’s Summer Destiny event on July 13. Despite the injury, there are some massive plans for her in the pipeline for her debut.

Giulia’s WWE debut

Giulia was involved with WWE during the WrestleMania 40 weekend. She made her first WWE appearance at NXT Stand & Deliver as she was in attendance. Recent reports suggest that WWE officials are hoping that the Japanese sensation will recover before NXT Heatwave which is scheduled for July 7. 

Meanwhile, the officials within NXT believe that Giulia will enter the NXT Women’s title picture immediately. The Japanese star is expected to battle Roxanne Perez for the title at the show. However, these plans might be altered due to Giulia’s injury.

Posted May 31st, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: .

Kurt Angle To Be Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has added one more feather on his cap. 

Per PW Insider, Cauliflower Alley Club has announced that ‘The Olympic Gold Medalist’ is the latest recipient of the prestigious Lou Thesz/Art Abrams Lifetime Achievement Award.

Angle has certainly cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats. His legendary career began with amateur wrestling. He went on to win the Olympic Gold Medal at the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996 despite having a ‘Broken Frickin’ Neck.’ He eventually shifted to pro wrestling and competed across WWE and TNA Wrestling, tasting more success in the process. He is a former multi-time World Champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017. 

Lou Thesz/Art Abrams Lifetime Achievement Award

The esteemed award was named after legendary wrestler Lou Thesz and Cauliflower Club founder Art Abrams. It is noted that the award nominee must have a strong amateur wrestling background and a widely recognized pro wrestling career. It is needless to mention that Kurt Angle is a fitting choice for this award. 

Kurt Angle will accept the award in a ceremony at the 58th Annual Cauliflower Club Reunion in Las Vegas, Nevada from August 19 to 21. ‘The Olympic Gold Medalist’ has now joined the prestigious list of fellow legendary wrestlers such as Ron Simmons, Rob Van Dam, Shawn Michaels, Mick Foley, and Ricky Steamboat who have received the award in the past. For more information and to buy tickets, fans can visit the CAC website.

Kurt Angle had an illustrious career in WWE but things might have been different for him had he signed with WCW. Fellow WWE legend Ric Flair had prevented Angle from joining WCW. Read more below:

Posted May 30th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: .

Ethan Page & Jordynne Grace Hid In Former WWE Star’s Garage Ahead of Surprise NXT Appearances

Former WWE star Cezar Bononi played a pivotal role in TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace and former AEW star Ethan Page’s shocking appearances on last night’s edition of NXT. 

Bononi, who has had runs with WWE and AEW in the past, revealed that he knew about the surprise appearances and even “hid” Grace and Page in his garage. 

Taking to his X account, Bononi posted a photo in which he could be seen posing with Jordynne Grace and Ethan Page. He said they had a closed garage workout and had to “hide, tame, and feed” the two beasts ahead of their appearances.

“Closed garage workout this morning, I had to hide, tame and feed two beasts…”

Jordynne Grace and Ethan Page make impactful NXT appearances 

NXT General Manager Ava stunned the fans when she announced Grace would challenge Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship at NXT Battleground next month. This marked Grace’s second appearance for WWE as she shockingly competed in the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

On the other hand, Page made his debut on WWE’s developmental brand in the final moments of the show. He launched a blindsided attack on NXT Champion Trick Williams to send a statement. Williams was accused of attacking Meta Four members Noam Dar and Oro Mensah. However, ‘All Ego’ made it clear with his actions that he was the attacker. The show concluded with Page standing tall and holding up the NXT title, 

It has also come to light that Page inked a deal with WWE after attending WWE Performance Center. Meanwhile, Jordynne Grace’s appearance yet again proves that WWE are eager to walk through the ‘Forbidden Door’ and more crossover matches could be expected down the road.

Posted May 29th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Swerve Strickland Reveals How Floyd Mayweather’s Double Or Nothing Appearance Was Planned

AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland has revealed that Boxing legend Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather’s appearance at last night’s Double Or Nothing was long time coming.

In one of the headlining matches at the pay-per-view, Swerve Strickland successfully defended the AEW World title by defeating Christian Cage. Following the match, Swerve celebrated with the fans in the front row as well as Floyd Mayweather Jr.

During the AEW Double or Nothing post-show media scrum, he was asked about how Floyd Mayweather’s attendance materialized. The World Champion revealed that ‘Money’ has been a friend. He said that since he has connections, he would bring people like Floyd Mayweather to “blow this place up.” 

“Floyd has been a friend of ours, my man Flash Garments, he gets a free pass every time he comes to All Elite Wrestling. We’re here to grow and not just take. If we have opportunities and connections, we’re going to bring them here every single time. We want to blow this place up and be the catalyst of it. That’s how Floyd came through.” 

He added that Floyd’s appearance has been in the discussions for two years and finally was able to make it at Double Or Nothing. Swerve Strickland said:

“We’ve actually been talking to Floyd for like two years. His whole family, have him come through every time we’re in Vegas. Finally, he was like, ‘Alright, this is the day. We’re pulling up.’ He pulled up, made it to the match, we pulled out a banger in front of him. He’s like, ‘I’m in.’ We might have Money Team invested in this whole thing,”

Floyd Mayweather Jr. has made a handful of appearances for WWE in the past. He defeated The Big Show (Paul Wight) at WrestleMania 24 to script one of the biggest moments in the company. His last appearance for the promotion took place back in 2009. Meanwhile, this marked his first appearance in AEW.

Swerve Strickland’s next title defense 

This marked Swerve Strickland’s first title defense at a pay-per-view since dethroning Samoa Joe at AEW Dynasty last month. He will be gearing up for his next title match that will take place at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view on Sunday, June 30.

It has been announced that on the May 29, edition of AEW Dynamite, a Casino Battle Royale take place to determine the Strickland’s challenger at the upcoming pay-per-view.

Check out the post-show media scrum below:

Posted May 27th, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Logan Paul Thanks Cody Rhodes For Their Epic Clash At King & Queen of The Ring

WWE United States Champion Logan Paul has thanked the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes despite the former’s defeat at WWE King & Queen of the Ring in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

‘The Maverick’ portrays a heel persona on-screen but couldn’t help from acknowledging the amazing match against Cody Rhodes. Taking to his X account, Paul said that he had “fun” during the match against ‘The American Nightmare’. Paul tweeted:

“I had so much fun tonight

Thanks for the dance @CodyRhodes”

This marked Cody Rhodes’ second title defense at a PLE after successfully defending his title against AJ Styles at Backlash: France earlier this month. On the other hand, this was Paul’s second attempt at winning the World title as he previously faced Roman Reigns for the title at Crown Jewel 2022.  

Cody Rhodes hitting Logan Paul with Cody Cutter on announce table

Cody Rhodes successfully retains the title over Logan Paul

Cody Rhodes and Logan Paul headlined WWE King And Queen Of The Ring PLE. During the match, Paul used his brass knuckles despite promising he wouldn’t use it.

Rhodes almost won the match via count-out but stopped the ref’s ten-count. Paul soon took advantage and hit a spectacular frog splash on Rhodes through the Arabic announce table. 

In the final moments of the match, guest ring announcer Ibrahim Al Hajjaj stopped ‘The Maverick’ from using the brass knuckles again. This distracted Paul and Cody hit three Cross Rhodes and pinned Paul to win the match.

Cody Rhodes will be looking forward to WWE’s next Premium Live Event WWE Clash At The Castle: Scotland which will take place at OVO Hydro arena in Glasgow, Scotland on June 15.  

Posted May 26th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Bayley Expresses Interest To Face Kris Statlander Someday

WWE Women’s Champion Bayley has expressed her interest in facing AEW wrestler, Kris Statlander.

‘The Role Model’ has faced plenty of talented wrestlers over the last decade and she now has named the former TBS Champion for a potential match. Bayley recently spoke to Bernard Colas of Le10Sport and was asked about a wrestler outside of WWE whom she wanted to face. ‘The Role Model’ named AEW star Kris Statlander as her potential opponent in the future. She went on to state that Statlander reminds her a lot of the former WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley as she she is “so athletic.” Bayley said:

“I really like Kris Statlander. I think she’s just freaking so athletic. She kind of reminds me of like Rhea Ripley. You know or like it seems like she can do everything so I’d be interested to get in the ring someday.”

Kris Statlander competed only once in WWE in April 2019. She was introduced as Kristen alongside her tag team partner Karissa (now known as Elekra Lopez) and faced then-Women’s Tag Team Champions The IIconics (Billie Kay and Peyton Royce) in a losing effort. Following a brief run on the independent circuit, Kris Statlander made a move to AEW in November 2019 and went on to capture the TBS Championship last year. 

Bayley vs Kris Statlander in the future?

WWE have started to acknowledge the happenings and bring in wrestlers from other promotions. In 2020, WWE brought in then-IMPACT Knockouts Champion Mickie James for that year’s Women’s Royal Rumble. This year TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace was also able to compete in the match. Recently, Shayna Baszler also competed at ‘GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport X’ last April to face Masha Slamovich. Bayley and Kris Statlander could face each other if either of them is allowed to walk through the Forbidden Door.

We will have to wait and see if a match between Bayley and Kris Statlander ever takes place. Last year, AEW President Tony Khan seemingly liked the idea of working with WWE. Read more below:

Posted May 25th, 2024 in AEW, WWE. Tagged: , .

Drew McIntyre Comments On Being A “Quieter” Locker Room Leader

Drew McIntyre feels that there are few more than one locker room leader in WWE. 

‘The Scottish Warrior’ is one of the most popular and accomplished stars in the company. He has certainly earned the right to be called a locker-room leader as he has gone through his rookie phase and has remained on top of the card for several years. 

Over the years, WWE has seen several locker-room leaders who have led by example and McIntyre recently told Mike Johnson of PWInsider that there is more than one specific leader at present. He recalled when he shared the locker room with WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker and noted how Roman Reigns carried himself similar to ‘The Phenom.’ He said:  

“I think there’s a few now more than one specific person. When the guys have been around for a long time, when people go alright, that’s the you know the leader there but I was there when Taker was there, it was very clear and didn’t have to say a word. Like that’s the man right there.

Just the way he carried himself and Roman when he was full-time, he had that very similar, you know, just cool, very in control and had wrestled, you know, at the top level for so long, even though I’d been around longer, like that’s the guy right there. Now he had that same kind of Taker vibe and now there’s a bunch of us.”

The former WWE Champion then talked about his leadership style. The Scotsman stated that he is a “quieter leader.”  However, he never backs off from sharing his valuable advice if any wrestler approaches him since he has experienced so much in his decorated career. He said:

“I’d say I’m a quieter leader. Like I don’t force my opinion. There’s a few guys I’ll go directly and say ‘Hey, you need to do this, this, this’ unless it’s genuinely terrible and hurting our show I’ll 100% say something, but a lot of time they’ll come to me and I’m there for anybody that wants my opinion.

Somebody that you know, came up through the system, had to get fired to find themselves, has been part of the independent scene, has been part of the growth of social media, being part of the old ways and being part of the new ways. You know, I have some advice to give and you can take it or leave it because in the end, it’s going to be what works for you. I take advice all day long from everybody. And the thing I’ve learned is take what works for me and discard what doesn’t.”

McIntyre is sidelined with an elbow injury. However, he is featured regularly on Monday Night Raw. He is currently involved in a heated feud with CM Punk. Recently, it came to light that McIntyre’s first feature film is set to hit the theatres soon. Read more below:

Posted May 25th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: .

Mercedes Mone On Leaving WWE: “I Don’t Like Being Handcuffed”

Mercedes Mone has explained her decision to depart WWE abruptly. 

After having some creative differences with WWE management regarding her and Naomi’s Women’s tag-team title reign, the former Sasha Banks decided to walk out during an edition of Raw. She went on to join NJPW last year where she held the IWGP Women’s Championship. ‘The CEO’ eventually headed to AEW and she is all set to make her in-ring debut at the promotion.

Mercedes Mone told Cameron Hawkins of The Ringer why she decided to part ways with WWE. ‘The CEO’ explained that she doesn’t like to be ‘handcuffed’ and noted that she required that ‘change’ to grow in her career. 

“I don’t like being handcuffed. The only place to grow is with change, and I needed that change.” 

Mercedes Mone has been on the sidelines after she sustained an ankle injury during her match against Willow Nightingale at NJPW STRONG Resurgence last year. However, she is returning to the ring this weekend at AEW Double Or Nothing.

It seems that Mone is brimming with confidence despite being on the shelf for a year. She claims to be the greatest women’s wrestler of all time and vowed to show the fans who ‘The CEO’ is. She said:

“They haven’t really got to see the CEO. They know who Sasha Banks is, but the CEO, Mercedes Moné, [is] something they’ve never seen before, and I’m ready to show them. I’m the greatest women’s wrestler of all time, 100 percent.”

Mercedes Mone’s AEW in-ring debut

Mone will be making her in-ring debut for AEW and it also marks her return to the squared circle after the injury. She will be challenging Willow Nightingale for the AEW TBS Championship at this Sunday’s AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view. While speaking about the match, Mone said that she is excited for the match. However, she is quite nervous. She said: 

“I don’t want to put pressure on myself, because I’ve been doing this for 14 years. I have more excitement than pressure, but I am really nervous as well, just because it’s been a year since I performed, but being in the ring with someone like Willow Nightingale, I know it’s going to be absolutely everything I’ve ever dreamed of. We’re going to go out there and steal the show.”

Mercedes Mone is going the extra mile for her in-ring debut for AEW as she is training with a former WWE wrestler. Read more below:

Posted May 24th, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Will Ospreay Says He Is ‘Bonded By Blood’ With AEW International Championship

Will Ospreay has only one goal in mind – to dethrone Roderick Strong and capture the AEW International Championship at AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view.

This week’s AEW Dynamite emanated from Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California. The show kicked off with Ospreay teaming up with Orange Cassidy and face Roderick Strong and Trent Beretta. In the final moments of the match, Wardlow interfered in the match and assisted Strong to pick up the win. Following the match, Strong and his Undisputed Kingdom teammates brutally assaulted ‘The Aerial Assassin’. The AEW International Champion hit Ospreay with the title belt as the English wrestler was busted open. 

In a AEW Digital Exclusive, Will Ospreay, who was still bleeding, delivered a passionate promo. He sent a stern message to his opponent at AEW Double Or Nothing. Ospreay boasted his endurance and asked if the attack was the best shot that Strong got. He said:

“You think I look pretty bad right now, right? No, this is nothing. Mate, I’ve been on four-day bender, had a bowl of Cocoa Puffs, got on a plane to Japan, called out the toughest guy, and whooped him in front of his wife and kids while I was smiling, bruv. You think this is the end, Messiah? What, you think that this scares me? [Slaps himself] Nah, I live for this, bruv. I flew all the way from England on a ten-hour flight, got transferred over to Bakersfield, and this? This is the best that you’ve got? My Messiah, am I meant to believe in you, man? Am I meant to believe?  No, man.”

Ospreay added that he believes in what goes down inside the squared circle when the bell rings. He said Strong’s actions have ‘bonded” him with that championship as his blood is on the title belt. The 31-year-old wrestler further declared that it’s his life mission to win the AEW International Championship at the upcoming pay-per-view this weekend. He said:

“The only thing that I believe in is bell-to-bell, internationally known, no one is better than me inside that ring, and now what you’ve just done, Roderick, what you’ve just done is it’s bonded me with that championship. My blood is on that championship. So now, it is my duty, it is my spirit that is bonded with that championship. So Sunday, in the perfect city to do it in, bet it all. Gamble your life on it, son. Because now, it is my life’s mission to take the International Championship away from you, come hell or high water. Nobody is better than Will Ospreay because I am on another level.”

Roderick Strong had captured the AEW International title by defeating Orange Cassidy at AEW Revolution in March. This will mark his second PPV title defense. He retained the title over Kyle O’Reilly at AEW Dynasty last month. 

At the same pay-per-view, Will Ospreay emerged victorious over Bryan Danielson in a match that was heavily praised. However, there were some concerning scenes following the match as ‘The American Dragon’ looked hurt after being hit with the Tiger Driver 91.

Posted May 23rd, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Giulia’s WWE Debut Likely Delayed Due To Her Injury

WWE are hoping to move ahead with the original plans set for their newest signing, Giulia. However, the plans might have to be altered due to her recent injury.

Giulia sustained a fractured right wrist during a match on Monday, May 20 at the Marigold Fields Forever event. She teamed up with Utami Hayashashita and faced former NXT star Sareee and Bozilla in a losing effort. Fightful’s Corey Brennan has reported some new details on Giulia’s status with WWE after the injury.

Brennan reported that WWE are hopeful that Giulia will recover in time for NXT Heatwave which will take place on July 7. There is a belief within NXT that Giulia would face Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship at the show. However, it has come to light that “these plans are not set in stone” and might be changed due to Giulia’s current injury.

The Japanese star had to pull out from her upcoming matches, including the Hana Kimura tribute show. However, she’s still scheduled to face Sareee at Marigold’s Summer Destiny event on July 13. Brennan also confirmed the reports that Giulia will be available to work with the promotion following her arrival in NXT. He reported that “the match with Sareee was expected”, and shouldn’t affect Giulia’s arrival in WWE before that. 

It has come to light that Giulia is expected to lead the next class of wrestlers at the Performance Center and the batch is likely to have wrestlers from the recent Australia tryouts.

Character and presentation

It is also reported that Giulia was signed for ‘who she is’, and that WWE are not aiming to “fix something that isn’t broken.”

Giulia made an appearance for WWE for the first time at Stand & Deliver as she was in  attendance. She also made her presence felt backstage and was “outgoing and polite to NXT talent and higher-ups alike.” She is also said to have a lengthy conversation with NXT Head Shawn Michaels backstage.

Regarding her English speaking skills, it is said that “the language barrier” isn’t a major issue as IYO Sky, Asuka, Kairi Sane, and more speak in their native language in WWE. However, Giulia’s effort to learn the language has seemingly impressed WWE. 

Fans are eager to witness Giulia in NXT but her debut depends on her recovery.

Posted May 22nd, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Cody Rhodes Kept Mementos From Brodie Lee Dog Collar Match

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes has penned a heartfelt tribute for his former rival in AEW, Brodie Lee. 

‘The American Nightmare’ took to his X account and reminisced his epic battle against ‘The Exalted One.’ He responded to a fan-made video package of his classic Dog Collar Match against Brodie Lee which took place on October 7, 2020 edition of AEW Dynamite. He showered praise for the late wrestler, who showcased a remarkable performance that night. Cody revealed that he kept his collar and the jacket from the match as mementos and labeled Lee as the ultimate family man and pro wrestler. Check out the post below:

Cody Rhodes and Brodie Lee had a fiery feud back in 2020. The pair locked horns over the TNT Championship several times during their time in AEW. The former Dark Order leader defeated Cody for the title in August 2020. However, ‘The American Nightmare’ Rhodes dethroned Lee a few months later in the aforementioned Dog Collar match. Brodie Lee tragically passed away at the age of 41 in 2020 and Cody Rhodes was his final opponent. 

Brodie Lee and his family shared a close relationship with Cody Rhodes. ‘The American Nightmare’ has remained close with Lee’s family, who were also present when Cody finished his story at WrestleMania 40.

Cody Rhodes set to defend his title 

Cody Rhodes will be putting his Undisputed WWE Championship on the line against the WWE United States Champion Logan Paul at this weekend’s WWE King & Queen of The Ring PLE in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This will mark Cody’s second title defense at a PLE after retaining against AJ Styles at Backlash: France. Meanwhile, this is Paul’s second World title shot after facing the former Universal Champion Roman Reigns at Crown Jewel 2022.  

WWE had previously teased a title vs title match between Cody and Logan. But why? Read below:

Posted May 22nd, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Dave Bautista & Drew McIntyre Film, ‘The Killer’s Game’ Gets Release Date

Pro-wrestler-turned Dave Bautista-starred ‘The Killer’s Game’ is set to release within a matter of few months and the movie will also mark the first time that former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre works in a feature film.   

Bautista has taken up the lead role in the new movie while ‘The Scottish Warrior’ will be working in a supporting role. This will also be the first time that Bautista will share the silver screen with a fellow wrestler. The ensemble cast of the upcoming movie also includes Sofia Boutella, Terry Crews, Scott Adkins and Ben Kingsley. Variety has reported that the movie will be released in theaters on September 13, 2024. It has come to light that the action-comedy movie is distributed by Lionsgate and produced by Andrew Lazar, Steve Richards and Kia Jam.

The Killer’s Game

The movie is based on the original namesake novel which was first published in 1997 by author Jay Bonansing. It has been revealed that in the movie, Dave Bautista will portray the role of Joe Flood, a hitman who’s been diagnosed with a terminal disease and wants to take the matters in his own hands. Joe takes a hit on himself. However, things go south when the hitmen target his ex-girlfriend (Sofia Boutella). Now, Joe must fend off the assassins to win back the love of his life before time runs out.

Bautista was recently a part of Dune: Part Two, which released earlier this year. After tasting massive success with on-screen roles, the former WWE star is hoping to make a directorial debut next year. 

Meanwhile, Drew McIntyre sparked speculations of his departure from WWE. However, he recently inked a new deal with the company and he is going nowhere. While he recuperates from an injury, ‘The Scottish Warrior’ has remained involved in a feud with CM Punk.

Posted May 21st, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , .

This Is Why Dominik Mysterio Doesn’t Wear A Mask

The Judgment Day’s Dominik Mysterio doesn’t believe he is required to wear a mask regularly because he is handsome.

Dominik, the son of WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio, has become one of the biggest heels in WWE. Ahead of his debut in 2020, fans expected him to wear a mask similar to his father and carry on the legacy of the Mysterio family. However, ‘Dom Dom’ has been performing without a mask. 

Dom told Noticias Telemundo that he wanted to wear a mask during his training days as it represents the Lucha Libre culture and runs through his family. The former one-half of the Tag Team champions doesn’t want to sport a mask because he doesn’t need to hide his handsome face. While speaking in character, the 26-year-old also took a shot at his father and uncle, calling them ‘ugly.’

“When I started training for wrestling I wanted to use a mask because to me if was representation for Lucha Libre, it means culture, it’s part of the family, I’m third generation. So for me to use a mask, it would have been the best to have my own design of the Mysterio Mask and family. But I think it’s because my uncle was ugly, and my father is too. While I happened to be handsome and so, if you’re handsome, you’re handsome. So, no, I didn’t get to wear the mask.” (Translated by AirByNature)

Dominik Mysterio wearing mask

Dominik Mysterio doesn’t wear a mask regularly but he has sported masks on multiple occasions to get under the skin of his father. He once wore Rey Mysterio’s mask for his special prison-themed entrance at WrestleMania 39 where he endured a defeat against his father. 

Last March, he also distracted Rey Mysterio by showing up in a mask and cost him the match against Santos Escobar on SmackDown. 

He considered debuting with lucha libre mask, but ultimatelydecided against it.

The former NXT North American champion is currently away from in-ring action as he is recuperating from an elbow injury that he suffered last month.  ‘Dirty Dom’ hasn’t competed since the injury but he has maintained his presence on the WWE shows. While he remains injured, Dominik is seemingly linking up with Liv Morgan:

Posted May 21st, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: .

Jon Moxley Hates Twitter: “Take it off your phone. Throw it in the garbage.”

Jon Moxley has made it clear that he has a strong hatred for X (formerly known as Twitter).

Wrestlers put their lives at risk to entertain the fans. However, some critics never shy away from crossing the limit and hurl insults at them on social media platforms including Twitter. Irrespective of the topics, users on Twitter always share their opinion on the happenings in the world which Moxley is not a fan of and prefers staying away from the platform. 

During an appearance on Hey! (EW) the reigning IWGP World Heavyweight champ expressed his distaste towards Twitter. Mox reckoned that the platform brings the worst out of everyone and the worst medium for people to interact. He suggested everyone to get rid of the application and dump it in the garbage. 

“I don’t like Twitter, it’s hard to escape because everything that’s in the news, about any subject, is about something, somebody said or did on Twitter, so it’s impossible to escape. I feel like Twitter particularly is like, it brings the worst out of everyone, and it’s the worst way for people to interact, it’s terrible. I think everyone should drop it. I think my advice to the entire world would be, get off that f***ing thing. Take it off your phone. Throw it in the garbage.”

It seems that staying away from Twitter has helped Jon Moxley to focus more on his career and distance himself from toxicity. He recently captured the IWGP World Heavyweight title at NJPW Windy City Riot. He has already retained his title by defeating the likes of Powerhouse Hobbs and Shota Umino. His next title defense will take place against Evil at the Dominion 6.9 in Osaka-jo Hall on June 9.

He is also set to battle Konosuke Takeshita in an IWGP World Heavyweight title Eliminator match at Double Or Nothing pay-per-view on Sunday, May 26. Should Takeshita defeat the champ, he would receive a title match at a later date.

Ahead of the massive matches, he made a comeback to a wrestling promotion. Read more below:

Posted May 20th, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

Rikishi Addresses Tama Tonga & Tonga Loa Joining The Bloodline In WWE

Hall of Famer Rikishi is proud to see Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa’s arrival in WWE.

The Bloodline storyline has taken a unique turn amid the absence of Roman Reigns. Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, who are the sons of Haku, have made their way to the company to join the Bloodline. While speaking on the Rikishi Fatu Off The Top podcast, the WWE legend showered praise on the duo for their hard work in NJPW before making a move to WWE. He is thrilled that Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa are finally home. He said:

“Those two kids, Tama and his brother, Tonga Loa, they’re [related] to the family, as far as with Uncle Haku and so forth. These kids, I couldn’t wait for them to come to WWE. They’ve done so much out there, the hard work and building their brand out there in New Japan, that it was awesome to see them finally come home.”

Rikishi and The Bloodline

Ever since Roman Reigns dropped the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, he has been on a hiatus and Solo Sikoa has transformed The Bloodline and the stable has undergone drastic changes. He has ousted Jimmy Uso and brought in Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa. Rikishi loves the fact that the duo was added to the stable because they are family and he is thrilled with the revamped Bloodline. 

“The Bloodline, the WWE is home. To be able to see them come and not just go right into an angle, they’re only put there for the simple fact that they belong there. Nothing else, nothing more. You got Roman that’s out the picture now, Jimmy’s out the picture now. Now here comes Solo and his crew, what they like to call The Bloodline 2.0, the brothers, Tama and Tonga Loa, they’re doing a great job. They both look great, they look fresh. So nice to see fresh faces out of there, being involved in The Bloodline, and family at that.”

It has been announced that Tama Tonga will be locking horns with Randy Orton in the semi-finals of the WWE King Of The Ring tournament on this week’s edition of WWE SmackDown. While Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa continue to assert dominance on the blue brand, we recently reported that they won’t be using the Gurilla’s of Destiny team name.

Check out their WWE debuts here:

Solo Sikoa enacts sweeping changes to The Bloodline, kicking out Jimmy Uso whilst adding Tama Tonga:

As Kevin Owens seems to clinch victory with a earth-shattering Brainbuster, Tanga Loa makes his WWE debut in an effort to save Solo Sikoa & Tama Tanga from defeat. 

Posted May 20th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: , , .

Saraya Returning To In-Ring Action For The First Time In 3 Months

Saraya is set to return to the ring on next week’s AEW Dynamite.

Next week’s edition of AEW Dynamite will emanate from the Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California. It will be the final build before the promotion’s, Double Or Nothing pay-per-view that takes place on Sunday, May 26. It has been announced that Saraya will be teaming with Harley Cameron and face the duo of ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm and Mariah May.

This will mark Saraya’s first match in over three months. In her last match before in-ring hiatus, she teamed with Ruby Soho to take on Kris Statlander and Willow Nightingale on the February 7 edition of AEW Rampage. The 31-year-old star endured not only a defeat but a betrayal from Ruby Soho in that match. Soho left the Brit wrestler in the ring during the match and it put an end to the former’s association with The Outcasts.

Saraya, who is set to co-host MTV Catfish, had formed The Outcasts by recruiting Toni Storm and Ruby Soho in January last year. However, Storm turned her back on the stable at All Out last year. She then recruited Harley Cameron, the only member currently on the former AEW Women’s World Champion’s side.

Other matches announced

More matches are lined up for the show. Konosuke Takeshita will lock horns with Matt Sydal. Meanwhile, Hook, Katsuyori Shibata, and Bryan Keith will battle in a three-way match to determine the number one contender for the FTW Championship match against Chris Jericho at Double Or Nothing.

AEW International Champion Roderick Strong will join forces with Trent Beretta and face the pair of Orange Cassidy and Will Ospreay.

Kyle O’Reilly is also set to go head-to-head with The House of Black leader, Malakai Black.

The Blackpool Combat Club member Bryan Danielson has a huge task at his hands as he will face Satnam Singh.

Ahead of his title defense at Double or Nothing, the AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland will take on Nick Wayne.

Posted May 19th, 2024 in AEW. Tagged: .

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