An update has surfaced on Bryan Danielson’s health following a recent AEW Rampage taping.
Fans inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas got quite a scare when Danielson got his leg caught between the entrance ramp and the ring. This occurred at the conclusion of the Rampage taping set to air on May 20.
Danielson was said to have had his leg stuck for a lengthy period of time. Some fans say it was as long as 10 minutes, while others claim it was much shorter.
bryan danielson got his leg stuck in between the ring and the ramp after a beat down on rampage he was stuck for a while but they got him out but he was limping hopefully he’s ok that’s so unfortunate pic.twitter.com/QNFWyNKphv
PWInsider is reporting that Bryan Danielson was “OK” backstage following the situation. The report also notes that there’s no word on the rumor spreading that this may have been a work.
Danielson was able to walk to the back on his own power but he was limping. He remained in character, however, flipping the bird towards Eddie Kingston.
Danielson and Kingston recently got into a shoving match despite being aligned for a program with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society. Danielson attempted to hold Kingston back from going after Jericho on Dynamite, causing friction between the two.
Those tuning into Rampage this Friday night will get to see how the tag team match between Danielson and Moxley vs. Dante Martin and Matt Sydal played out.
Championships don’t exactly come at a premium in wrestling and AEW is no exception.
Voices of Wrestling is reporting that the male and female winners of the Owen Hart Cup will be presented with special titles likely in place of trophies. The report also notes that these titles will have a black and pink theme to honor Owen Hart.
These championships are not expected to be defended.
The following section contains spoilers for the May 20 episode of AEW Rampage.
New Custom TNT Title?
(via AEW)
AEW has already taped the May 20 episode of Rampage. During the show, there was a segment involving TNT Champion Scorpio Sky, Ethan Page, Dan Lambert, Sammy Guevara, and Frankie Kazarian.
At one point, Guevara and Kazarian destroyed Sky’s TNT Championship with a sledgehammer.
This seems to indicate that Sky could be getting a new custom championship soon. Of course, it’s speculation at this point but Sky does love some LA Lakers colors. Could we be seeing a purple and gold spin on the TNT Title?
We already know that AEW is planning to unleash Trios Titles in the future. AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the report from Dave Meltzer during an interview with TSN.
In fact, Khan said that those titles have been created for a while.
Paul Heyman believes that WWE won’t have to work very hard selling fans on Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes.
Since making his return to WWE, Cody has been treated as a massive star on the Raw brand. The company went as far as to feature a countdown clock for Cody’s appearance on the May 16 episode of Raw.
It’s become quite clear that WWE is all in on Cody Rhodes.
Tribal Chief vs. The American Nightmare
During an appearance on 98.5’s Wrestling Inside The Ropes, the Special Counsel to the “Tribal Chief,” Paul Heyman, expressed his belief that Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes would be an easy story to tell (h/t 411Mania.com).
“Cody [Rhodes], is not only someone with, with an extensive legacy but I mean, my God, he’s the son of the American Dream, Dusty Rhodes, but he has carved out his niche. He’s achieved his accomplishments.
“And when he couldn’t gain enough traction in WWE to become a legend, to become a first-ballot Hall of Famer, to become a WWE or universal or unified heavyweight champion, he went out on his own.
“He blazed his trail.
“He created something, co-created, and helped create something that completely changed the complexion of the industry. And now he comes back to claim what he feels is his moment. And the only way that he’s going to be able to live that moment is to step into the ring with the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.
“What it’s a story that writes itself and, and, and Cody Rhodes is a magnificent talent who, whether he is, and he is the son of Dusty Rhodes, but whether he is, or isn’t the son of Dusty Rhodes on his own, just as Joe blow, not as big a name as Cody Rhodes, but still he could take the name, Joe Blow, and he could become huge box office.
“There is, I was dissatisfied with the landscape in the industry and I decided to change it myself. And that’s what Cody Rhodes did. He was dissatisfied with the landscape of the sports entertainment industry, and he went out on his own and, and along with others, uh, he changed it himself and he changed it along with the various people that, that, that collaborated to create a new landscape in the industry.
“So, yes, there are parallels.”
Cody hasn’t been shy in teasing a match with the “Head of the Table.” He has said that the match is certainly there.
Reigns has done his part in subtly hyping things up as well. He destroyed a Cody Rhodes fan sign after the April 11 episode of Raw went off the air.
Cody’s main goal is to capture the WWE Championship. It’s a title that Reigns holds as he is the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
A former WWE referee has taken issue with Ric Flair having one final match.
Flair has been announced to have one more match on July 31. He was rumored to face Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat in some capacity, likely a tag team match.
Steamboat took to a Highspots autograph signing to reveal that he was offered the match but declined it.
Ric Flair’s In-Ring Return Blasted
Former WWE referee Brian Hebner took to the Refin’ It Up podcast to share his belief that Ric Flair has made a “stupid” decision getting back in the ring at the age of 73 (h/t WrestlingNews.co).
“Ric Flair, I love you, but what the fu*k are you thinking?
“This man is 73 years old. He has a pacemaker and is not in the best of health or in the best of shape. I’m sorry. I don’t see anything exciting about this to me at all. Nothing.”
“Now if he was coming out in gimmick to walk down the aisle with his daughter or something like that, fine. This, to me, is ridiculous. It really is,” he continued.
“I know how my father is, and I can almost bet you my father is in better health than Ric Flair. They’re probably equal on alcoholic. But I can tell you right now, I see my dad do his thing, which is nowhere near what Ric Flair is going to have to do, which is take a bump, get up, feed, or whatever he’s going to do.”
“Like I said, I love Ric Flair, but I think this is going to tarnish more than it’s going to be helping his legacy. I’m just not excited about it. I really think it’s stupid. If it’s about money, I guess you got to do what you got to do, but to me, there’s nothing positive about this. Not one thing.”
Flair’s last match is being promoted by Starrcast. It’ll take place inside the Nashville Fairgrounds.
Some information on Naomi’s WWE contract has surfaced.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio is reporting that Naomi’s deal with WWE is set to expire in the near future. An exact date is unknown but it’s close.
She had been negotiating an extension before walking out of the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw. It’s been said that this could’ve played a factor in Naomi’s decision to join Sasha Banks in walking out.
In an exclusive interview, Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE, told SEScoops’ Steve Fall that she believes Naomi was manipulated into leaving the arena with Sasha.
Ariane offered to reunite with her former tag team partner to avoid the “foolishness.”
Naomi and Sasha are the current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. They were supposed to be featured on a six-pack challenge this past Monday. PWInsider reports Naomi was going to win the match before her walkout.
The plan was for Naomi to challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha would’ve challenged Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.
Both Naomi and Sasha were expected to lose those title matches.
Bryan Danielson found himself in a precarious situation at Wednesday’s AEW Rampage taping.
Danielson and Jon Moxley took on Dante Martin and Matt Sydal in the main event, which is set to air on May 20. After the match, Danielson and Moxley had a brawl with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society.
Danielson had a scary moment when his leg got caught between the ring and the entrance ramp. It was said that Danielson’s leg had been stuck for over 10 minutes. He was limping once he got free.
Here’s video of the incident courtesy of Nick Swanson.
Scary moment at the taping of #AEWRampage as Bryan Danielson’s leg got stuck between the ring and the ramp and was trapped for over 10 minutes after the show ended #AEWpic.twitter.com/zRpGwibQ0i
bryan danielson got his leg stuck in between the ring and the ramp after a beat down on rampage he was stuck for a while but they got him out but he was limping hopefully he’s ok that’s so unfortunate pic.twitter.com/QNFWyNKphv
Danielson was featured on the May 18 episode of Dynamite but he hadn’t wrestled until the Rampage taping. During Dynamite, he had a segment that ended in him and Eddie Kingston shoving each other over a disagreement.
We’ll keep you posted once more information is available.
A former WWE talent wrestled during the AEW Rampage taping set to air on May 20.
After Dynamite went off the air, Rampage was filmed inside the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas. Shawn Spears was in action but his opponent hadn’t been revealed ahead of time.
That’s because the opponent was a bit of a surprise.
Big Damo, formerly known as Killian Dain in WWE, wrestled against Spears. Damo ended up falling short in the match.
Spears’ victory is to continue his reputation of being a giant killer before he faces Wardlow. Something tells us Spears’ luck is about to run out.
Check out a couple of images of Big Damo’s AEW debut (via Wrestleism).
Damo was released by WWE back in June 2021. The company sighted budget reasons as the cause of his exit.
Damo struggled to get back to work in the wrestling business due to visa issues. It has become clear that those issues are now a thing of the past as he has been booked for several shows and of course, appeared on AEW Rampage.
Britt Baker was set for action in a quarterfinal match in the Owen Hart Cup. Going into the May 18 episode of AEW Dynamite, Baker’s opponent was a mystery. She was to go one-on-one with the “Joker” entry.
That mystery opponent was Maki Itoh.
Itoh fell short in her efforts against Baker, tapping out to Lockjaw. After the match, Toni Storm made her way out. Storm will meet Baker in the semifinals.
The quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Cup kicked off AEW Dynamite on May 18 and the “Joker” entrant was Johnny Elite.
Yes, the former John Morrison has made his way to AEW. He shared the ring with ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe.
Johnny Elite ended up losing the match via pinfall. After the match, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt, and Satnam Singh attacked both men. Members of CHAOS ran out to make the save.
AJ Lee may have no plans to get back inside the ring but she’s kept herself in outstanding shape.
The first set of TV tapings for the relaunch of WOW has been completed. AJ is an Executive Producer for the promotion. She also serves as a color commentator.
AJ Lee Stays Shredded
Taking to her Twitter account, AJ Lee showed off her phenomenal physique following the WOW TV tapings.
On the surface, one might think AJ would be good to go for an in-ring return. Back in Oct. 2021, she spoke to superfan Izzy on behalf of WOW.
During the interview, AJ didn’t rule out an in-ring return but she said her joy moving forward comes from allowing new talent to shine.
“So I will say, I say the same thing in every interview. It’s always, ‘never say never,’ but don’t hold your breath. And what I mean by that is that I never say never to anything.
“Physically, mentally, emotionally I’m healed from everything I’ve gone through in wrestling. I could technically do it, but I am so enjoying letting the next generation have their spotlight. I got to do everything I wanted to do so it really would have to be is that challenge there? I don’t think the girls need me there.
“I think that they are going to take over the world all by themselves.”
AJ Lee had her final match back in April 2015. It appears no injury would hold her back from returning, which was initially feared seven years ago.
During the May 9 episode of Monday Night Raw, he said there’s room for another member.
(via WWE)
Is Ciampa Bound For The Judgment Day?
WWE fans online have been pushing for Ciampa to join The Judgment Day. It’s clear that Edge has heard the feedback and he dropped a big tease on Twitter:
Of course, this could just be Edge stirring the pot. With that said, adding Ciampa may not be such a bad idea since he seems to have gone heel since being brought up to the main roster.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reported that Edge had wanted Harland to join his faction. The only problem is that Harland ended up being released from his NXT contract.
During the May 16 episode of Raw, Edge made an offer to AJ Styles, Finn Balor, and Liv Morgan to join his group. He urged the three to strongly consider the offer and insisted it isn’t too late.
Edge said that if his offer is turned down, then The Judgment Day will continue to make their time on Raw miserable.
Former AEW World Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega has been out of action for months but he isn’t totally out of the picture.
Omega was last seen on AEW TV during the post-Full Gear episode of Dynamite. He had just lost the world title to Hangman Page and he told fellow members of The Elite, Young Bucks & Adam Cole, that he needed some time off.
He left The Young Bucks in charge of the group, not Cole.
Kenny Omega (Photo: Scott Lesh)
Latest On Kenny Omega
PWInsider is reporting that Kenny Omega has actually been present backstage at AEW TV tapings over the past few weeks. He’s also reportedly been producing some of the women’s matches.
At this time, there is still no word on when Omega will be able to return to action.
Omega had been battling a slew of injuries, which explains the time off. The most severe injury was a hernia issue, which Omega had been on a waitlist for surgery. He also underwent arthroscopic knee surgery.
Neck problems have also plagued the “Best Bout Machine.”
Cody Rhodes’ ultimate goal is to capture the WWE Championship but if he reunites with IC gold, he has big plans for it.
For many WWE fans, Cody’s first Intercontinental title reign is looked back on fondly. During that period, Rhodes brought back the old design of the IC gold with the white strap.
That became the main design before WWE switched things up with a brand new look in Nov. 2019.
Back To Old Glory
There was a time in WWE when the Intercontinental Championship was a big deal. Many top faces in the WWF’s golden era treated it as the world title since Hulk Hogan was a mainstay at the top.
For many years now, the IC Title has been treated as an afterthought. The current champion, Ricochet, wasn’t even featured on the WrestleMania Backlash card.
During an interview with WWE UK, Cody Rhodes said that if he so happens to get his hands on the Intercontinental Title again, he’ll make it his goal to bring it back to past glory (h/t Inside The Ropes).
“The Intercontinental run was a massive, massive deal for me because I felt like it put me in the position to continue up the card. I think if I was to have the IC Title now, I would be less interested in my own selfish climbing up of the card and more putting the Intercontinental Title on a pedestal.
“That’s a bit of a calling card of mine. There’s a saying in the industry ‘the belt can make the man, or the man can make the belt.’ I know that’s not the popular nomenclature that WWE uses, Title, Championship, it’s all the same in terms of what you can do for it. I think I could do wonders for it.
“My goal is the WWE Championship but there’s a lot of roads to get there. No pun intended. If it runs through the Intercontinental Title I would be more than proud to carry one of the industry’s most prestigious Championships.”
A current WWE play-by-play ace insists that Sasha Banks and Naomi legitimately walked out on the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw.
WWE officials couldn’t have expected pivoting as much as they did on such short notice. The plan was set for Sasha and Naomi to participate in a number one contender match for Bianca Belair’s Raw Women’s Championship.
This was to be a six-pack challenge.
Instead, WWE found itself without its Women’s Tag Team Champions. PWInsider reported that following a disagreement over Vince McMahon’s creative direction, Sasha Banks made her exit mid-show and Naomi followed.
SEScoops had an exclusive interview with Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE. She used to team with Naomi and expressed her belief that she was manipulated by Sasha into leaving the building.
WWE Raw play-by-play commentator Jimmy Smith took to his Unlocking The Cage podcast to make it clear that the situation involving Sasha Banks and Naomi is as real as it gets.
“This is not a work. This really actually happened. From everything — I wasn’t there, I was calling the show — I’ve been told, everything the WWE is saying happened.
“Now obviously there are many sides to a story. I don’t know why Naomi and Sasha Banks walked out. I’ve heard rumors, but I’m not gonna repeat them just because it’s innuendo. I don’t know.
“But my point is, a lot of people when this was first released on Instagram, half the comments were, ‘Ah, this is a work.’ It’s not. This legitimately happened.
“One thing that you will see in the WWE, generally, in the time I’ve been there, is when they say this is our main event, something goofy may happen in that event, something goofy may change or there might be slight differences.
“They’re not going to say this is our main event and pull the rug out from under you. They will not advertise a main event and pull it out from under you. They want to know that you as an audience member will generally get the match that you thought you were gonna get.
“You stuck around till 10:45 to watch this match, that’s what you’re gonna see. What’s upsetting to the people behind the scenes on this one is they advertised the main event.
“I got up there on a microphone and Corey Graves to my left said, ‘Tonight, [women’s six-pack challenge],’ and then we sat down and we, meaning the WWE, all of us, couldn’t deliver that main event.
“Not happy about that.”
Naomi was reportedly set to win the six-pack challenge and face Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Sasha was expected to meet Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.
Both Sasha and Naomi were expected to lose those championship matches.
Bully Ray has shared his thoughts on Sasha Banks and Noami walking out of WWE Raw, attacking the story from different angles.
WWE was left scrambling during the May 16 episode of Raw. The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions were supposed to be involved in a six-pack challenge, which was set to feature Sasha, Naomi, Asuka, Becky Lynch, Nikki A.S.H., and Doudrop.
As first reported by PWInsider, Sasha and Naomi walked out mid-show. WWE issued a statement confirming that the two left their titles on the desk of John Laurinaitis and left the building.
WWE pivoted and booked Asuka vs. Becky with the winner facing Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell on June 5. Asuka won the match.
Naomi Set Up For The Bloodline?
During an edition of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray admitted that he doesn’t know whether or not Sasha and Naomi leaving was a work.
It’s safe to say he hopes that it was, however, as he sees huge potential in Naomi joining her husband Jimmy Uso as well as Jey Uso and Roman Reigns in The Bloodline.
“Hey, maybe this is all one giant story to split these girls up and get Naomi into The Bloodline. Don’t know. If it’s a work, I love it already. This is Heyman-esque level, pay attention to details work.”
If it isn’t a work, however, Bully Ray believes that is a big no-no on the part of Sasha and Naomi.
“The way I was brought up in this business, you don’t walk out. You find a way to compromise. And if they were uncomfortable with something, I’m sure, in those eight hours, could’ve come up with ways to compromise so that they wouldn’t feel uncomfortable in the ring. It sounds like somebody was uncomfortable with the outcome of the match.”
Naomi’s close friend and former tag team partner, Ariane Andrew (Cameron), spoke to SEScoops’ Steve Fall in an exclusive interview. She believes that Sasha Banks may have manipulated Naomi into leaving Raw.
Tay Conti believes that “OnlyFans Chick” Paige VanZant isn’t cut out for the wrestling business.
Of course, Tay and PVZ have been involved in a feud recently. With that said, VanZant hasn’t been on AEW TV in several weeks. This is likely due to her preparing for a BKFC fight on July 9.
Tay and Sammy Guevara continue to feud with PVZ’s faction, however. Sammy has been at odds with Dan Lambert, Ethan Page, and current TNT Champion Scorpio Sky.
Tay Conti On PVZ’s Wrestling Future
Speaking to Brandon Walker of Barstool Rasslin’, Tay Conti explained why she hasn’t been able to continue her feud with PVZ (h/t Wrestling Inc).
“What’s her name again, the chick from the OnlyFans? Paige VanZant, waiting on her. She signed, never here, waiting on her. I do both, I am here, I’m on Instagram, she can’t handle it, that’s not on me. So, you guys need to complain with her. You guys need to hate her, not me, because I am here doing my job.”
When PVZ does eventually return, she’ll likely be taking aim at Tay for her trash talk. Ever since VanZant went to prepare for her next fight, Tay has been playing more of a heel role with Sammy Guevara despite AEW’s confusing direction with the two.
With VanZant, there is the question of how much she is invested in the wrestling industry. WWE Attitude Era star Gangrel, who trains VanZant, recently admitted that the former UFC star hasn’t been as passionate about the business and someone else he’s high on in the gym.
Former WWE star Ariane Andrew believes her close friend Naomi was manipulated, which led to her decision to exit while Raw was on the air.
Naomi and Sasha Banks are the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. The two were scheduled to be a part of a six-pack challenge on the May 16 episode of Raw.
The match was to feature Naomi, Sasha, Asuka, Becky Lynch, Nikki A.S.H., and Doudrop. The winner was to get a shot at Bianca Belair’s Raw Women’s Championship.
Ariane Andrew, formerly known as Cameron in WWE, spoke to SEScoops’ Steve Fall in an exclusive interview. During the chat, she expressed her belief that Naomi was influenced by someone to ditch Raw mid-show. She heavily implied that “someone” is Sasha Banks.
“What happened I think — I’m just gonna remove Sasha because Sasha’s done this before. Sasha’s a great athlete, let me not get this twisted cause I don’t want fans coming for me. She’s definitely deserved — like she’s a great wrestler, she’s a great character, she does what she has to do.
“My girl Naomi, she wouldn’t do this and I feel like she wouldn’t do this unless she had someone manipulating and telling her how to do this. Let’s best believe if I was here, coming as a Funkadactyl we wouldn’t have this happening at all.”
Reunion?
(via WWE)
Ariane used to team with Naomi as part of The Funkadactyls. She offered assistance to her good friend if she wants to stay in a tag team.
“This is where we’re at, so it’s unfortunate what happened but I’m gonna say it right here: Naomi, I’ve always been your girl, I’ve always been by your side. Do you need a tag team partner to come help you out?
“Cause I’m here because I got you and we ain’t gonna do this foolishness. We can still make a dream team happen, we can make history happen, and we ain’t gotta do all this stuff. Just play the game, girl. I’ll play it with you.”
Sasha Banks A Manipulator?
Sasha Banks
When pushed on whether or not she believes Sasha is indeed the manipulator, Ariane had the following to say:
“Again, Sasha is Sasha. You have Snoop Dogg as your cousin. You’re a top athlete, you can do whatever the f*ck you wanna do. You can literally say what you wanna say, do what you wanna do with no repercussion.
“And if you’re a star athlete, I feel like she can back it up. The one thing that she can do is she can back it up. It’s not like, ‘oh she can have all these people who can back her up without having the talent to do so or the beauty.’
“She’s a f*cking top f*cking b*tch, she can f*cking back it up in the ring but if you have the top agent, you have a top celebrity backing you up, a thousand percent you’re gonna have the extra boost.
“But someone like Naomi, where’s your extra boost?”
Reports have claimed that Sasha had been unhappy with Vince McMahon over creative plans. In a statement issued by WWE, the company said the two left their tag team titles on the desk of John Laurinaitis’ desk and said they felt they weren’t appreciated.
PWInsider reported that Naomi was supposed to win the six-pack challenge and challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell. It’s also been reported that Sasha was set to challenge Ronda Rousey for the SmackDown Women’s Title.
Both Naomi and Sasha were expected to lose those matches.
Bryan Alvarez of F4WOnline noted on Wrestling Observer Live that sources told him there is zero sympathy for Sasha Banks backstage at WWE. As far as Naomi goes, it appears no one backstage has badmouthed her over the situation.
Please give proper credit to SEScoops if you use our interview for your story
Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat has ultimately decided not to be Ric Flair’s final opponent.
Fightful had reported that plans were in place to have Steamboat be Flair’s opponent although it wouldn’t have been a singles match. The report left some concerned as Jake “The Snake” Roberts claimed “The Dragon” was going through health issues.
The good, and most important news is that Ricky Steamboat told fans during a Highspots autograph signing live stream that he’s in good health and regularly gets checked by doctors.
Ricky Steamboat Won’t Face Ric Flair On July 31
Ric Flair is set to have his final match on July 31. While a healthy Steamboat would’ve been the perfect choice for an opponent given their history, it’s not going to happen.
During the Highspots live stream, Ricky Steamboat revealed he turned down Starrcast’s offer to share the ring with the “Nature Boy” for the final time (h/t Fightful).
“Well, I was approached and given it really some serious thought. A lot of respect to the guy in the ring. You know, both of us are night and day when it comes to stuff out of the ring.
“Flair wouldn’t be Flair without it.
“I thought about it for a week and just recently just declined on it. I know when I wrestled Jericho at WrestleMania 25, then we had the return match at Backlash in a singles, but at 69, and I know it’s a six-man tag and I could get a little this and that in, but with all due respect to our fans, I want them to remember me that last time I was in there with Jericho when they chanted, ‘You still got it.’
On the May 9 episode of Raw, Cody Rhodes challenged Theory for the WWE United States Championship. During the match, Jimmy Smith mentioned that Cody may have had ring rust since he hadn’t been in WWE in six years.
Corey Graves was quick to correct the comment and while he didn’t mention AEW, he did say that Cody has been active over the years.
KO wasn’t about to let Jimmy forget that line on the May 16 episode of Raw. Owens was a guest commentator during a match between Ezekiel and Chad Gable.
Owens had the following zinger for Jimmy:
“Just like you said Cody Rhodes hadn’t wrestled in six years. That was ridiculous, too. Thankfully, Corey was here to put you in your place.”
For the most part, Jimmy has settled in nicely with his role as the play-by-play commentator on Raw. If anything, he’s been far better than Adnan Virk but Jimmy was more of an MMA guy than a wrestling aficionado.
This likely caused the slip up unless he was told by someone in the “Gorilla Position” to say the line and he ended up getting roasted for it anyway.
William Regal insists he will never have another wrestling match.
Regal brings tremendous value to any wrestling promotion he enters. While he hasn’t had a match since 2013, the living legend was vital backstage for WWE when Triple H ran NXT. He continues to be a huge asset, working as an onscreen character for AEW and behind the scenes.
While many believe Regal has one more match in him, the king of Blackpool thinks otherwise.
William Regal Remains Retired
During an interview with Metro, William Regal said he has no plans of ever stepping back inside the squared circle for anything other than some banter or some minor physicality.
A match, however, is out of the question.
“No, never. No. My last official match was against Cesaro. My last few years, I didn’t realize – it’s come out recently, I had a serious neck problem for 20-odd years. It finally caught up with me.
“All I ever wanted was a 20-year wrestling career when I started – I ended up with a 30-year wrestling career. I couldn’t have asked for any more. If you’re not me and you’re just looking from the outside, “Oh he should have been this, he should have been that” – no.
“I was very happy with what I achieved. If I’d have never come to America, I had an incredible career. By the time I was 24, I’d been to 19 countries. In 20 to 24, I’d been to all the best places you could go to, wrestling all the best wrestling.
“If it’d stopped then, I’d have had an incredible career. Everything after that – everything after leaving Blackpool Pleasure Beach was a bonus for me!”
Currently, Regal is the leader of the Blackpool Combat Club. He also serves as the manager. The group features Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson, and Wheeler Yuta.
Regal’s group has gotten involved in a feud with the Chris Jericho Appreciation Society. The feud began as Moxley’s close friend, Eddie Kingston, was viciously attacked by Jericho backstage. Kingston had a fireball thrown in his face by Jericho, prompting the BCC to retaliate.
JBL has responded to a claim from Buff Bagwell that he once tried to end his in-ring career.
JBL has built a reputation over the years of being a backstage bully. Some have accused him of purposely working stiff against those he didn’t like, although others will tell you it was simply JBL’s in-ring style.
Past Incident Involved JBL
Longtime fans haven’t forgotten the time JBL was drunk during ECW One Night Stand 2005 and he bloodied up The Blue Meanie with legit punches. As it turns out, Blue Meanie actually had a cut from The Sandman prior and JBL’s shots just made the blood pour.
Ultimately, the two made amends and have had a good laugh reflecting on the incident.
Bagwell’s Accusation
More recently, however, former WCW star Buff Bagwell accused John Bradshaw Layfield of attempting to end his career during a dark segment many years ago.
JBL denied the accusations to Buff and the two quickly squashed any potential animosity.
Buff-this is simply not true. It was a powerbomb, a called spot-and I landed you flat, which is safe. No different from anyone else I powerbombed back in the day-stiff, yes, dangerous—no. This is first I’ve heard of this. Not doubting what you thought-but zero intent to injure. https://t.co/5kPSltUDXx
Bagwell: “Bradshaw attempted to end my career in a dark segment on Smackdown, I’m glad he’s grown up from those days.”
JBL: “Buff-this is simply not true. It was a powerbomb, a called spot-and I landed you flat, which is safe. No different from anyone else I powerbombed back in the day-stiff, yes, dangerous—no. This is first I’ve heard of this. Not doubting what you thought-but zero intent to injure.”
Bagwell: “I appreciate that, you know how it goes, people talk and I was dumb enough to listen.”
WWE has responded to the actions of Sasha Banks and Naomi.
The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions were scheduled to compete on the May 16 episode of Monday Night Raw. They were to participate in a six-pack challenge to determine the number one contender for the Raw Women’s Championship.
Sasha Banks made her exit after Vince wouldn’t budge on her suggestion for a change in plans. Naomi ended up leaving the arena as well, which confused many as PWInsider reported that she was scheduled to win the six-pack challenge.
The match ended up being changed to singles action between Asuka and Becky Lynch. The two competed for a title shot against Bianca Belair at Hell in a Cell on June 5.
WWE has issued the following statement on what transpired on Raw:
“When Sasha Banks and Naomi arrived at the arena this afternoon, they were informed of their participation in the main event of tonight’s Monday Night Raw.
“During the broadcast, they walked into WWE Head of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis’ office with their suitcases in hand, placed their tag team championship belts on his desk and walked out.
“They claimed they weren’t respected enough as tag team champions. And even though they had eight hours to rehearse and construct their match, they claimed they were uncomfortable in the ring with two of their opponents —even though they’d had matches with those individuals in the past with no consequence.
“Monday Night Raw is a scripted live TV show, whose characters are expected to perform the requirements of their contract.
“We regret we were unable to deliver, as advertised, tonight’s main event.”
It appears the initial plans for Sasha Banks and Naomi have been revealed and it’s left more questions than answers.
During the May 16 episode of WWE Raw, it was announced that Sasha and Naomi would be featured in a six-pack challenge. The match was to also feature Asuka, Becky Lynch, Nikki A.S.H., and Doudrop.
The winner was to challenge Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship at the Hell in a Cell premium live event.
Sasha Banks & Naomi Exit Midshow
The problem is, the match never took place. The commentary team revealed that the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions left the building. As a result, WWE booked Asuka vs. Becky Lynch in a number one contender match.
PWInsider reported that Sasha Banks and Naomi legitimately left the arena. Sasha had creative differences with Vince McMahon and decided to leave once the WWE Chairman didn’t budge on her suggestion for a tweak in plans.
Naomi left with her, which is puzzling given this latest update.
Initial Plans
PWInsider is now reporting that Naomi was scheduled to win the six-pack challenge. This has left many confused as to why she would leave with Banks if she was going to be getting a big spot at the upcoming June event.
We’ll keep you updated as more information rolls along.
WWE Raw is going on without Sasha Banks and Naomi.
Banks and Naomi were scheduled to compete on the May 16 episode of Raw. They were going to be in a six-pack challenge involving Asuka, Becky Lynch, Nikki A.S.H., and Doudrop. The winner was set to challenge Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair at the Hell in a Cell premium live event.
The commentary team later announced that Sasha and Naomi left the building.
PWInsider is reporting that this is NOT part of the act and Sasha Banks was frustrated over the creative with Vince McMahon. Naomi is apparently on her tag team partner’s side and left with her.
Per PWInsider, #WWERaw main event was changed mid-show when Sasha Banks walked out of the taping over creative differences with Vince McMahon. She wanted changes made and he wouldn't budge, so she left the building. Naomi then left with Sasha.
Sasha’s exit left WWE in a last-minute pickle, and the company was forced to pivot. The scheduled match has now been changed to singles action between Asuka and Becky.
It’ll be interesting to see what consequences Sasha and Naomi will face after leaving the building. The two currently hold the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.
Fans have already compared the situation to CM Punk, who left WWE before Raw went on the air back in 2014. The difference here is, Punk didn’t leave midshow with a match advertised.
When Corey Graves discussed the situation on-air, he did take a shot at Sasha and Naomi. Graves said the two are usually professional but not tonight.
Sammy Guevara and Tay Conti love their loyal fans but brush off the “fake people.”
Sammy and Tay were beloved by AEW fans but ever since being together, the two have basically become heels. They aren’t afraid to lean into it either as they’ve been rather braggadocious in the past few weeks.
A Message To Haters
During an interview with Brandon Walker of Rasslin‘, Sammy Guevara said those who boo him and Tay Conti are exposing themselves.
“I think the fake people expose themselves for being fake. The real people are still there. Our core audience, the people who’ve always supported us still support us.”
Tay also expressed her belief that the haters are lashing out for no good reason.
“I mean, we did nothing wrong for people to hate us. That’s what I’m saying, like why would they hate us?”
Of course, throughout the interview, Sammy and Tay continued to play things up with their relationship.
Sammy was then asked about his memorable ladder match with Cody Rhodes at Beach Break back in January. Guevara had the highlight reel spot when he landed a cutter off the top of a ladder.
Sammy admitted that he was feeling the effects of the landing.
“No [he wasn’t intimidated by the spot], I just hoped that it was going to work out, and then when I jumped off the ladder, I thought in midair, ‘holy sh*t I jumped way higher than I thought I was gonna get.’ Then we got here and I was like, ‘oh, it’s working out.’ When we landed though, I was like, ‘I regret this now.’”
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