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WWE Extreme Rules Predictions

We’ve got a big weekend ahead of us, folks!

On Saturday night, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) will set the tone for the weekend with their AEW Fight For The Fallen event at Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida.

Afterwards, however, it will be WWE’s turn for a swing at the plate.

WWE brings their top Superstars from the RAW, SmackDown Live and 205 Live brands for their WWE Extreme Rules pay-per-view this Sunday night at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

On tap for Sunday’s WWE PPV main event is a “Winner Take All” match with WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins and RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch putting both of their titles on-the-line in an inter-gender tag-team match against Baron Corbin and Lacey Evans. The winning team of the match will walk out with both championships.

Additionally, The Undertaker will return to his “yard,” as he teams with “The Big Dog,” Roman Reigns, for a tag-team showdown against Drew McIntyre and Shane McMahon.

In other matches on the card, Kofi Kingston puts his WWE Championship on-the-line against Samoa Joe, Braun Strowman squares off with Bobby Lashley in a Last Man Standing match, Ricochet puts his WWE United States Championship on-the-line in a highly-anticipated showdown against A.J. Styles, and much more.

As is the case before any significant WWE or AEW PPV, we have conjured up three veteran SEScoops.com reporters to provide expert analysis, insight and their predictions for each match scheduled for this Sunday’s WWE Extreme Rules show.

Without any further ado, lets take a look at the card for Sunday’s big event in Philadelphia, PA.

Aleister Black vs. Cesaro

Andrew Ravens: History would say that Black should go over here as he is the young new star that WWE has been pushing over the last few weeks. Cesaro is obviously talented but it makes no sense to go over Black in this random match that only has a few days of build up. (Prediction: Aleister Black)

Ian Carey: This is interesting because Cesaro is a RAW guy, Aleister is a Smackdown guy and apparently Paul Heyman has been helping with Black’s promos. Regardless, Black will win here as he steadily climbs the ladder and becomes a bigger player on the main roster. There’s a reason nobody but Cesaro seems interested in picking a fight with him. (Prediction: Cesaro)

Matt Boone: Clearly this match has been promoted as a spotlight showcase for the former NXT World Champion. I expect some kind of “angle” to be involved either during the match, or during the finish / post-match. This should be a great match in terms of in-ring performance. (Prediction: Aleister Black)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Aleister Black

The Revival (C) vs. The Usos

Andrew: The Revival’s reign as champions have been lackluster and this feud has seemed like it’s gone on for way too long. I don’t see WWE having anything important for the champs and with their futures still up in the air, I think it’s the perfect time for The Usos to win. (Prediction: The Usos)

Ian: This is really WWE’s two best tag-teams going after the RAW belts. The Revival, the Usos, Anderson & Gallows, the AOP, and the Viking Raiders are all going to be vying for these belts on Paul Heyman’s show moving forward. I’m expecting the Revival to use dirty under-handed tactics to hold onto the titles here and for the next several months. (Prediction: The Revival)

Matt: With all of the drama between The Revival and WWE, I can’t see the RAW Tag-Team Champions losing their straps in this one. As far as match quality, this is a sleeper for potential “Match of the Night.” I’m expecting this one to be given some time, too. (Prediction: The Revival)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, The Revival

Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley (Last Man Standing)

Andrew: Honestly, does it matter as to which guy wins here? What has the company done to make the fans care about the winner of this match? Yes, Strowman is the babyface and will likely go over but I still can’t recall why these two are feuding and so mad at each other. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Ian: If Paul Heyman really does have control, Bobby Lashley is winning this match. Heyman has certain people he likes and Bobby Lashley is one of them. Lashley came away from their explosive RAW angle nearly unscathed whereas that was not the case with Strowman. I’m expecting Lashley to take advantage of Strowman’s injuries and get the win. (Prediction: Bobby Lashley)

Matt: Clearly this match will have all the trimmings. The bells and whistles are likely reserved for this match, which will likely feature another big dramatic spot after the RAW stage-explosion segment was used to build this one up. In terms of the winner for this one, WWE sure seems fond of “The Monster Among Men.” (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Braun Strowman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-7RG-0c7Bg

Drew Gulak (C) vs. Tony Nese (WWE Cruiserweight Title)

Andrew: Gulak recently won the title and although I’m not sold on him being the champion, WWE has shown that they give the Cruiserweight Champion some time to hold the title, which would make it surprising to me to see him lose it here. A fun match though. (Prediction: Drew Gulak)

Ian: Would you believe me if I told you this will be a good match that you should watch? It will be. Drew Gulak is a good old-school storyteller in the ring and Tony Nese is one of those guys who can do anything. Gulak will hold the title until we know more about the future of the brand once Smackdown heads to Fox. (Prediction: Drew Gulak)

Matt: This should be an excellent early match to set the tone for the crowd inside the Wells Fargo Center this Sunday night. Gulak and Nese have the ability to steal the show in this Cruiserweight Title showdown, however they have tough competition later in the evening in the form of A.J. Styles vs. Ricochet. As far as this one goes, I don’t think it’s time to take the title off of Gulak yet. (Prediction: Drew Gulak)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Drew Gulak

Ricochet (C) vs. A.J. Styles (WWE U.S. Title)

Andrew: A new champion will be crowned here. Yes, historically, Ricochet should get his revenge in this match. Despite the fact that Ricochet has beaten Styles in recent matches, Styles’ heel turn has served as an overcast of that. With that being said, Styles should get the title as a heel and gives a boost to his character as well as recent reuniting with The Club. Ricochet is the perfect babyface to chase for the title. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

Ian: These two are now 1-1 against each other on RAW. I’m expecting AJ to pull out the victory but having to cheat to do so. It’s likely we’ll get some interference by the Club leading to the victory. At some point, Ricochet is going to need some back-up against AJ and his stablemates. Ricochet and the Viking Raiders have teamed in the past, including at Takeover: WarGames II. Perhaps he’ll enlist their help after Extreme Rules. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

Matt: Just want to start off by sending a “good luck” shout-out to Drew Gulak and Tony Nese. They have their work cut out for them if they’re going for the “Match of the Night” honors. In the minds of many fans, Styles and Ricochet in a one-on-one WWE PPV match with a championship on-the-line are the perfect ingredients for an undercard “Show-Stealing Performance.” I expect nothing less this Sunday night, even if “The Phenomenal One” isn’t 100% coming into Philly this weekend. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, A.J. Styles

Daniel Bryan & Rowan (C) vs. New Day vs. Heavy Machinery (SD! Tag Titles)

Andrew: I like the fact that this is a three-way match as we just saw Bryan & Rowan work with Heavy Machinery last month. I can see a title change here with New Day going over but I think WWE doesn’t have any plans for Bryan as a singles star right now. With that said, Bryan’s time as a tag team star is coming to an end with a decline in ratings and he could be used as a top challenger for Kofi Kingston in the near future. With that said, I have Bryan and Rowan somehow holding onto the titles. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Rowan)

Ian: Expect Xavier Woods and Big E to come away from this match the new Smackdown tag team champions. The victory will allow all 3 members of the faction to close out the show holding up championship gold. Unless Brock chooses that moment to cash-in that is…
Heavy Machinery could end up costing Daniel Bryan and Rowan the match, leading to those teams feuding while Woods and Big E enter a new storyline along with Kofi. (Prediction: New Day)

Matt: With WWE SummerSlam coming up, it would make sense to free-up Daniel Bryan in order to have him available for a significant singles program heading into WWE’s biggest event of the summer. Could we see the Kingston-Bryan saga revived and re-polished heading into next month’s WWE PPV in Toronto. If the titles change hands, who do they go to? That is the real question. If they are going the Bryan-Kingston route, they could mix in and include Big E. and Xavier Woods in the story line if New Day comes out on top here. We’ll see this Sunday! (Prediction: New Day)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, New Day

Bayley (C) vs. Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross (SD! Women’s Title Handicap Match)

Andrew: Although the deck is stacked against Bayley, I’m gonna go out and make a bold thought. I see Sasha Banks making her return at this show to make the save for Bayley and help her retain the title. The feud with Bliss will be over and down the road, Banks turns heel on Bayley to set up a program at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Bayley)

Ian: I don’t care. Is “I don’t care” an OK answer for this one? Fine, Bayley will win but only because Bliss isn’t healthy. It’s tough to say where they are going with this after Extreme Rules because Eric Bischoff starts booking Smackdown then. In all likelihood then, Bayley retains here but then joins the NWO on Tuesday. (Prediction: Bayley)

Matt: As noted, Nikki Cross was added to this match due to Alexa Bliss’ sinus infection issues. With that in mind, it appears clear that WWE is trying to stack the deck in a way that the match can deliver. With Bliss seemingly uneligible for a title run from a medical standpoint, one would assume Bayley is going over. (Prediction: Bayley)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Bayley

Kofi Kingston (C) vs. Samoa Joe (WWE Title)

Andrew: As much as I would like to see Joe go over here, WWE has taken the time to build up Kofi as a legit champion despite him still throwing out pancakes to fans. Joe has been in this spot before and we know the outcome, which makes it hard for me to believe that WWE would make a title change just one month away from SummerSlam. Kofi wins but this feud lives and a rematch takes place at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Ian: This rivalry with Joe is just a time-killer for Kofi. WWE already got the thrill of the chase and the glory of victory for this angle in the build-up to and then at WrestleMania. The only thing left is the heat they can generate and put on whoever takes the title off him. That has to be Brock Lesnar. Lesnar taking the title off Seth would lead to a rivalry we just saw in the build-up to WrestleMania. A Brock cash-in on Kofi, however, would lead to a fresh angle and Lesnar on Fox starting in the fall. Kofi retains here but only so he can eventually drop it to Brock. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Matt: Well, Kofi Kingston is injured, and Samoa Joe is the type of guy who could carry the ball for a little while (and I think he would surprise people in a positive way if he were handed the ball). Having said that, I think the agent / producer for this match will have a busy time coordinating things so that this can deliver like a world title match should in terms of action and match-length, but somehow there will be some fun at the end that results in KofiMania continuing for a little while longer. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Kofi Kingston

Undertaker & Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre & Shane McMahon

Andrew: I actually see McMahon and McIntyre going over here as a swerve because many people think that it’s a slam dunk that Reigns and Taker go over here because that’s what should happen. If you look at the way that WWE has booked Shane this year with his feuds with the likes of Miz and Reigns, Shane goes over in the end. I see WWE splitting this feud up going into SummerSlam with Reigns vs. Shane and Taker vs. McIntyre happening. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre & Shane McMahon)

Ian: Undertaker needs to win this match to wash the taste out of his mouth from Super ShowDown. Kevin Owens could play a role in this match as well, considering he has no other role on the show and recently gave Shane McMahon a stunner. If Shane McMahon is going to go away soon, we’ll have to start that process here. (Prediction: Undertaker & Roman Reigns)

Matt: Well, as we reported here at SEScoops.com this past weekend, WWE is planning on Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre at SummerSlam next month. With that in mind, something tells me that things will go wrong for “The Phenom” and “The Big Dog,” leading to individual matches for each against “The Scottish Psychopath” and “The Best in the World,” respectively, at WWE’s “Biggest Event of the Summer.” (Prediction: Drew McIntyre & Shane McMahon)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Drew McIntyre & Shane McMahon

Seth Rollins (C) & Becky Lynch (C) vs. Baron Corbin & Lacey Evans (Winner Take All)

Andrew: This is the easiest pick on the entire card as if the company wanted to put the titles on the heels then they could’ve done it in previous matches. WWE has no intention of putting the titles on Evans and Corbin despite how much that they like them and push them on television. Rollins and Lynch move onto different feuds finally after this show. (Prediction: Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch)

Ian: These titles are not going on Baron Corbin and Lacey Evans. They just aren’t. I think WWE is going to milk Seth and Becky for all its worth. They’ve never had this dynamic before no matter how badly Vince may have wanted Wendy Richter and the Hulkster to hook up. I’m expecting Becky and Seth to each hold their titles until SummerSlam at the very least. (Prediction: Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch)

Matt: Well, I know WWE is big on “shock value” and the “surprise factor” in big matches on big shows, but if you’re laying down any loot for this one, you’re moolah is safe on “The Architect” and “The Man.” I just plain can’t see Baron Corbin and Lacey Evans wearing the prizes that makes them the top dog and dogette on WWE’s red brand. Even if Paul Heyman is holding the pencil, those two on top every Monday night? Nah!! (Prediction: Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch

What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday? Check out the updated WWE Extreme Rules betting odds. What do YOU think is going to happen this Sunday? Sound off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Sunday for live WWE Extreme Rules results.

Posted July 12th, 2019 in Features, News, WWE. Tagged: .

Impact Wrestling Announces Date, Location For Bound For Glory 2019

Impact Wrestling has confirmed the date and host city for this year’s Bound For Glory. The announcement was made during Sunday’s Slammiversary XVII pay-per-view (Results).

Impact Wrestling’s Bound For Glory will take place on Sunday, October 20th from the Chicago area. A video that aired during the pay-per-view can be seen below.

Bound For Glory 2019 Venue

Impact has yet to confirm which venue will host Bound for Glory, but we’ve got you covered there. The show will take place at the Odeum Sports and Convention Expo Center in Villa Park, IL. The building has a maximum capacity of approximately 5,500 people. The arena website now lists an Impact Wrestling show Sunday night, October 20th, essentially confirming our story from last week.

Bound for Glory is historically Impact’s biggest show of the year. This will be the 15th installment, which was held in the Chicago area at the Sears Center back in 2008.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vwDcEindTI

Posted July 8th, 2019 in TNA, News.

Former ECW Champion At Slammiversary XVII, Will Appear On PPV (Spoiler)

IMPACT Wrestling returns to the pay-per-view arena this evening, and already they have at least one surprise in store.

Former ECW and NWA World Champion Rhyno is backstage at Gilley’s Dallas, the site of tonight’s Slammiversary XVII pay-per-view in Dallas, Texas.

According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, the former WWE Superstar will be appearing on the IMPACT Wrestling PPV broadcast this evening.

Rhyno Posts Tease Earlier In The Day On Sunday

Rhyno took to his official Twitter page on Sunday posting the following tweet from Texas, the location of tonight’s IMPACT Wrestling PPV.

Make sure to check back here at SEScoops.com later this evening, or early Monday morning for a complete recap of the IMPACT Wrestling Slammiversary XVII PPV!

What do YOU think about tonight’s Slammiversary XVII PPV? What about the news that Rhyno will be appearing? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted July 7th, 2019 in TNA, News. Tagged: .

Corey Graves Blasts WWE Fan For Being Critical Of His RAW Announcing Style

Corey Graves continued his outspoken ways on social media this weekend.

Fresh off of his controversial appearance on WWE RAW last Monday night, where Graves used profanity live on the air during the WWE RAW broadcast on the USA Network by yelling out, “Holy sh*t!” when the Braun Strowman / Bobby Lashley stage explosion segment happened.

While that was, in fact, part of the script, Graves went off-script on Twitter on Sunday when responding to a fan who was critical of his on-air chemistry with fellow WWE RAW announcer Renee Young.

“[Stephanie McMahon] as a female fan of [WWE], I would really appreciate if you could ask [Corey Graves] to talk to [Renee Young] like she’s a human being and not a doormat when on commentary,” a WWE fan wrote to Stephanie McMahon on Twitter, tagging Graves and Young in the process. “She deserves a better.”

https://twitter.com/millennial_jew/status/1148001711757205505

Corey Graves Fires Back At WWE Fan Like Only He Can

Graves, never shy to go public with his unfiltered opinion, responded to the fan in typical Corey Graves fashion.

“As Corey Graves, I would REALLY appreciate if you’d just let my best friend [Renee Young], and I do our jobs and have fun,” wrote Graves in response to the WWE fan on Twitter. “Instead of trying to turn it into a f*cking social issue.”

What do YOU think about Corey Graves’ argument from the story above? Do you think he went too far in his response to the WWE fan? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted July 7th, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Drew McIntyre Recalls EVOLVE Run Ahead Of 10th Anniversary Event

WWE continues to release videos featuring Superstars talking about the impact that EVOLVE Wrestling had in their careers on their official YouTube channel this weekend.

On Sunday, WWE posted a video of Drew McIntyre recalling how EVOLVE helped shape his career.

“I wanted to show the world who EVOLVE was and get the chance to start learning how to be a true main event player,” said McIntyre. “And [to] actually get to apply all the lessons I had learned in WWE but never got to put them into practice.”

He added, “EVOLVE was my training ground for becoming the Drew McIntyre you know today.”

Drew McIntyre Thanks Gabe Sapolsky

In addition to the video, “The Scottish Psychopath” also took to social media to post a message to EVOLVE promoter Gabe Sapolsky ahead of the big 10th anniversary celebration.

“Representing EVOLVE as champion across the world was one of the most important chapters of my career,” McIntyre wrote via his official Twitter page on Sunday. “Had a lot of fun & learned so much. Thank you, [Gabe Sapolsky, and] I’ll be watching next Saturday.”

EVOLVE Wrestling celebrates their 10th anniversary with a big event at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 13th. The special will stream live via the WWE Network starting at 8pm Eastern Time / 5pm Pacific Time.

What are your thoughts on Drew McIntyre’s past run in EVOLVE Wrestling, and the upcoming 10th anniversary special on WWE Network? Sound off in the Comments section below.

(H/T to WrestleZone for transcribing the above Drew McIntyre quote from the WWE YouTube video.)

Posted July 7th, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Possible Spoiler On Undertaker’s Opponent For WWE SummerSlam

It looks like The Undertaker has himself a dance-partner for WWE’s biggest event of the summer.

According to local advertising, “The Dead Man” will be standing across the ring from a certain “Scottish Psychopath” when this year’s WWE SummerSlam pay-per-view comes to Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on Sunday, August 11th.

The local ads in the Toronto market are listing The Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre as one of the featured matches at the WWE SummerSlam event on 8/11.

Undertaker Teams With “The Big Dog” At WWE Extreme Rules

The Undertaker will team with Roman Reigns in a tag-team match against McIntyre and Shane McMahon at this Sunday’s WWE Extreme Rules PPV at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, so it would make sense from a booking standpoint that the two would splinter off into their own singles rivalry.

As noted, Dave Meltzer (@DaveMeltzerWON) reported in a recent issue of his Wrestling Observer Newsletter that The Undertaker personally requested to work with McIntyre when discussing plans with WWE officials for his return to the ring earlier this year.

It’s also worth noting that the decision for Undertaker to stick around after WWE Extreme Rules has been part of the plan since he returned, as his WWE contract calls for a specific amount of appearances and matches per year.

WWE Extreme Rules Results At SEScoops.com This Sunday

Speaking of the WWE Extreme Rules show, which will be available on pay-per-view and will stream live via the WWE Network, featured below is a look at the current advertised lineup heading into this Sunday:

WWE Extreme Rules 2019

* Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch vs. Baron Corbin & Lacey Evans (WWE Universal & RAW Women’s Titles)
* The Undertaker & Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon & Drew McIntyre (No Holds Barred Match)
* Kofi Kingston vs. Samoa Joe (WWE Title)
* Bayley vs. Alexa Bliss (SmackDown Women’s Title)
* Drew Gulak vs. Tony Nese (WWE Cruiserweight Title)
* Daniel Bryan & Rowan vs. New Day vs. Heavy Machinery (SmackDown Tag-Team Titles)
* Aleister Black vs. TBD

Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com this Sunday for live WWE Extreme Rules results coverage to follow the latest developments in the rumored Undertaker / Drew McIntyre singles rivalry saga.

For now, share your thoughts on The Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre as the choice for his WWE SummerSlam match and more in our Comments section below.

Posted July 7th, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: , , , .

Vince McMahon “Immensely Pleased” With 3 Key Aspects Of 7/1 RAW

Things are always better when the boss-man is pleased, and that appears to be the situation the RAW team finds themselves in following last week’s show.

As noted, WWE announced two main events for Monday night’s episode of RAW through Sports Illustrated earlier this weekend.

The report confirmed Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch vs. Andrade and Zelina Vega in mixed tag-team action, as well as Roman Reigns and a mystery partner of Shane McMahon’s choosing against he and Drew McIntyre in a tag-team bout.

An additional stipulation in the latter match is that if The Undertaker interferes at any point during the contest, he will be removed from the scheduled tag-team match at the WWE Extreme Rules pay-per-view.

This Monday’s RAW show goes down from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, and will be the “go-home” show for the red brand heading into the WWE Extreme Rules show.

WWE Extreme Rules goes down from the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania this Sunday, July 14th. The show will air live via pay-per-view, and will stream live on the WWE Network. Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on 7/14 for live WWE Extreme Rules results coverage.

Which Segments On 7/1 RAW In Dallas Were Paul Heyman’s Ideas?

In related news, the same SI article that broke the news of Monday’s RAW double main event included news about WWE officials being pleased with last Monday’s RAW at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

The show marked the first episode for RAW under the new “Paul Heyman Era.” As noted, his fingerprints were reportedly all over the show, even if he wasn’t “fully in charge” of things.

The SI articles notes that some of the ideas believed to be Heyman’s at last week’s show were the stage explosion with Braun Strowman and Bobby Lashley, the Maria and Mike Kanellis pregnancy segment, and the appearance by NXT Tag-Team Champions The Street Profits.

Vince “Immensely Pleased” With First RAW Of “Paul Heyman Era”

Additionally, the report mentioned that Vince McMahon was said to be “immensely pleased” with the RAW show in Dallas.

In particular, the article references the “pace, tone and essence” of last Monday’s RAW as parts that the WWE Chairman was specifically pleased with.

It’s always good when the boss-man is pleased.

What did YOU think of the first episode of RAW in the new “Paul Heyman Era?” Sound off in the Comments section below! You can also interact with us on Twitter @SEScoops and @MattBoone1984.

Posted July 7th, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

Damien Sandow Announces Wrestling Return As “The Millennial Slayer”

Fans, get ready for “The Millennial Slayer.”

Aron Stevens, formerly known as Damien Sandow, returned to the pro wrestling world this weekend and made an impact.

Stevens appeared at an independent wrestling show this weekend to set up his return at the upcoming Battle Arts PRO event at Starrcast III.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzmermigSVn/

Aron Stevens Teases Debut Of ‘The Millennial Slayer’

Following his return at the aforementioned indy show this weekend, Stevens took to social media to release a promo teasing his actual return to the ring at the Don Kolov Arena, Mississauga next Saturday, July 13th.

“Well, you might as well hear it from me first,” Stevens started in the promo (see below). “I’m here in Toronto at [the] Battle Arts Academy. I attended a wrestling show and I had an epiphany. I’ve been gone for two and a half years. Look what’s happened to the world, look what’s happened to the business. The world needs me and the business needs me.”

He concluded, “So tonight, ‘The Millennial Slayer’ was born. Stay tuned.”

What do YOU think is going on with ‘The Millennial Slayer?’ Sound off in the Comments section below!

Posted July 7th, 2019 in News, WWE. Tagged: .

No Way Jose Rap Video Leads To Interesting Comments From WWE Superstars

A pair of WWE Superstars had an interesting back-and-forth exchange on Twitter after watching a freestyle rap released by No Way Jose this weekend.

Things got started when No Way Jose released a freestyle rap about his intentions on coming for R-Truth and the WWE 24/7 Championship.

In the rap, which the WWE Superstar released in a video via his official Twitter page (@WWENoWayJose) on Friday evening, he mentions several of the recent title changes that happened in various settings, including the WWE flight to Saudi Arabia, a golf course and 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick’s real-life wedding.

Titus O’Neil chimed in on his official Twitter page (@TitusONeilWWE) with a response to No Way Jose’s freestyle.

“This was EXCELLENT No Way Jose,” wrote O’Neil earlier this morning. “But you’ll have to beat me after I beat him, and unlike him I won’t run … I’ll fight you, him, them and all-y’all-stankin’-a** family members!”

No Way Jose & Titus O’Neil Get R-Truth’s Attention

The pair of tweets managed to capture the attention of the reigning eight-time WWE 24/7 Champion.

“You can’t stay on your feet long enough to fight,” wrote R-Truth via his official Twitter page (@RonKillings) today, before dropping a random “Lil Jimmy” mention. “I WILL bite both of y’all if Lil Jimmy said so!”

This lead to O’Neil posting another response with a GIF from the movie Friday that features “Deebo” intimidating some of the men in the neighborhood, along with a caption that read, “Shutcho…wait who TF you think you talkin’ too?!”

R-Truth would respond about 20 minutes later with a GIF of his own, as he posted a funny Kevin Hart facial expression from the actor / comedian’s stand-up comedy special. The WWE 24/7 Champion included a caption that again referenced “Lil Jimmy.”

“What does TF mean,” questioned Truth in his response. “I hope that’s not bad language.”

Truth concluded, “I don’t use bad language ’round Lil Jimmy.”

No Way Jose’s Rap Video, Titus O’Neil & R-Truth’s Tweets

Check out the interesting Twitter exchange, along with the initial No Way Jose freestyle rap video below.

SOUND OFF: What are YOUR thoughts on No Way Jose’s freestyle rap video and the interesting comments Titus O’Neil and R-Truth posted in response? Comment below!

Posted June 29th, 2019 in WWE, News, NXT. Tagged: , , .

WWE Official Charles Robinson Robbed For $55k Of Memorabilia In Storage Unit Heist

WWE referee Charles “Lil ‘Naitch” Robinson has found himself the victim of a major storage unit heist.

TMZ Sports broke the news on Saturday morning that the veteran pro wrestling referee was robbed for approximately $55,000 worth of historic Hollywood memorabilia and wrestling collectibles.

“Lil ‘Naitch” is now on the hunt to retrieve his stolen items, however he hasn’t had much luck thus far.

Robinson reportedly went to check on his storage unit in Charlotte, North Carolina on May 28th, when he discovered that he had been the victim of a robbery.

“Lil ‘Naitch” Loses Hollywood Collectibles

Among the financially significant items that were stolen as part of the storage unit heist were ultra-rare Evel Knievel stunt cycle toys, collectible “Chucky” movie dolls, “Friday the 13th” movie action figures, “Planet of the Apes” movie lunchboxes and a laundry-list of WWE stuff.

The veteran pro wrestling referee has filed a police report regarding the robbery, however so far officials have not been able to make any headway in terms of tracking down the culprit.

Robinson told TMZ Sports that the security cameras at the storage company did not catch the thieves in the act in any form-or-fashion.

He also noted that he doesn’t feel that the company is very concerned with resolving the issue.

An interesting note is that one of the items that came up missing from Charles Robinson’s storage unit was a “Jaws” movie statue valued at $2,400.

The item coincidentally appeared for sale on eBay on June 27th, however the post and the username of the person who posted it were removed by the time Robinson was made aware.

As part of their article on the subject, TMZ Sports released a nine-page document listing all of Charles Robinson’s stolen items, as well as their estimated value. You can check out the PDF file by clicking here.

Robinson A WWE, WCW Veteran Of 18-Years

Robinson, who has worked for over 18-years as an official in WCW and WWE, is affectionately referred to as “Lil ‘Naitch” within the industry due to his longtime friendship and working relationship with two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair.

He served as the referee for “The Nature Boy’s” memorable “Retirement Match” at WrestleMania 24 in 2008 against fellow two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels.

In recent years, Robinson has found himself on the wrong end of injuries and controversies.

In addition to nearly losing his thumb in an accident while setting up the ring for a WWE event in Saudi Arabia in 2014, he most recently suffered an injury while refereeing the A.J. Styles vs. John Cena match at WWE Royal Rumble 2017 pay-per-view in San Antonio, Texas.

Following a “shouting match” on RAW with Chris Jericho after a spot in a match resulted in Neville suffering an injury, Robinson took to social media in March of 2016 to apologize for his actions.

For more news and notes on WWE referee Charles Robinson here at SEScoops, click here. Follow “Lil ‘Naitch” on Twitter @WWERobinson.

(H/T: TMZ.com)

Posted June 29th, 2019 in WWE, News.

AEW Fyter Fest Predictions

All Elite Wrestling returns with its second live event, Fyter Fest, this Saturday night streaming live (and free) via the Bleacher Report (B/R) Live service. The show will be co-promoted with CEO Fighting Game Championships.

AEW continues to ride the wave of momentum that started with the ALL IN independent pay-per-view in Chicago, Illinois last September, and went to another level at the inaugural AEW PPV, Double Or Nothing, in Las Vegas, Nevada last month, as they run the Ocean Center in Daytona Bleach, Florida this Saturday night for the Fyter Fest live streaming special on B/R Live.

The show kicks off at 7pm Eastern Time with their one-hour long “Buy-In” pre-show, which streams live via the promotion’s official YouTube channel, as well as on Bleacher Report Live. From there, the main card kicks off on B/R Live at 8pm Eastern Time.

A Look At The AEW Fyter Fest Lineup

This Saturday’s AEW Fyter Fest features a stacked lineup, with the AEW in-ring debut of former WWE Superstar Dean Ambrose. Ambrose made his AEW debut at the aforementioned inaugural Double Or Nothing PPV in May, attacking Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega after their “Alpha vs. Omega II” main event match. This weekend, Ambrose, now performing as Jon Moxley, will step inside the squared circle with AEW for the first time, as he faces off against Joey Janela in one-on-one action.

In other featured matches on the card, Cody takes on Darby Allin in singles competition, The Elite (Kenny Omega & The Young Bucks) will battle in six-man tag-team competition against the trio of the Lucha Bros (Pentagon Jr. & Rey Fenix) and Laredo Kid, Hangman Page vs. MJF vs. Jimmy Havoc vs. Jungle Boy will take place in a Four-Way Match, Christopher Daniels vs. CIMA will go one-on-one and there will be a Women’s Triple-Threat Match with Nyla Rose vs. Yuka Sakazaki vs. Riho.

On the “Buy-In” pre-show there will be three matches, with Michael Nakazawa vs. Alex Jebailey, Kylie Rae vs. Leva Bates (with Peter Avalon) and a special three-way tag-team match with the winning team advancing to the ALL OUT PPV on 8/31 in Illinois for an opportunity at a first round bye in the AEW World Tag-Team Championship Tournament, with Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Trent Beretta) vs. SoCal Uncensored (Scorpio Sky & Frankie Kazarian) vs. Private Party (Isiah Kassidy & Marq Quen) scheduled.

SEScoops.com writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for AEW Fyter Fest.

Kylie Rae vs. Leva Bates (Fyter Fest Pre-Show)

Ian Carey: Put your money on Kylie Rae for this match. Kylie took the pin to Britt Baker in the 4-way match at Double or Nothing and could use a win to get back on the right trajectory. Meanwhile, one of the promotion’s two librarians, Leva Bates, appears to have a secret admirer in the other AEW librarian, Peter Avalon. Kylie seems like a safe pick here.
(Prediction: Kylie Rae)

Andrew Ravens: To be honest, I’m a big fan of Rae as I think that she has a ton of potential and could be a real player in the women’s division. Bates is a solid worker and you know what she brings. There’s more upside with Rae.
(Prediction: Kylie Rae)

Jeff Moss: Leva Bates. Leva bates wins this and then wins the women’s title. Then she single-handedly wins the tag team tournament. Then in the World Title Match at All Out, Chris Jericho takes off his face and it’s Leva Bates. I really like Leva Bates. (Prediction: Leva Bates)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Kylie Rae

Best Friends vs. SCU vs. Private Party (Fyter Fest Pre-Show)

Ian: So the winner of this match earns a shot at a wild card match in the upcoming tournament to declare AEW tag team champions. This will be Private Party’s first match for the promotion while the other two were victorious at Double or Nothing. I expect the Best Friends to pick up the win here and book their ticket to All Out. (Prediction: Best Friends)

Andrew: One of the more important matches on the card due to the stipulation that it carries. I don’t think Private Party or SoCal need a win here but rather, Best Friends do as they need one to establish themselves in the American market.
(Prediction: Best Friends)

Jeff: This is a tough one to call. All three of these teams area great, and a bye in the upcoming tag tournament is a pretty significant prize given some of the talent that’s bound to show up there. Also, can I just note how awesome these team names are? I know they aren’t new, but “Best Friends” vs “Private Party” just looks fun on paper. SCU are a great team, but at the end of the night, the power of friendship will prevail and the Best Friends will pick up the victory. (Prediction: Best Friends)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Best Friends

Michael Nakazawa vs. Alex Jebailey (Fyter Fest Pre-Show)

Ian: Expect a lot of baby oil and weapons in this special hardcore match. Even though it is his company running the CEO Fighting Game championships in Daytona, I’m expecting Jebailey to lose this match to Nakazawa, likely after numerous comedic shenanigans.
(Prediction: Michael Nakazawa)

Andrew: I’m interested in seeing how far they go with Nakazawa in AEW as he’s talented but the bigger question is where does he fit in the promotion. Time will tell regarding that question. This is a nothing match, to be honest, so I have Nakazawa winning.
(Prediction: Michael Nakazawa)

Jeff: I’ll be honest, this match is a total coin flip for me. I don’t know either of these wrestlers, to be frank. Alexa Jebailey is actually the head of Community Effort Orlando, and Nakazawa I’ve heard of only in passing. That said, what AEW has started with Double or Nothing, and can continue through Fyter Fest, Fight For The Fallen, All Out and into their TV deal is what WCW couldn’t do: CREATE stars. Even matches I have no idea about like this one are exciting to me. If I had to pick a winner (and I guess I do) it’d be Nakazawa, purely because he is listed on the official AEW Roster and Jebailey isn’t. (Prediction: Micheal Nakazawa)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Michael Nakazawa

Christopher Daniels vs. CIMA

Ian: SCU defeated CIMA’s Strong Hearts team at Double or Nothing but I’m expecting the OWE representative to pick up the win here. SCU has wrestled OWE teams once in China and once for AEW in Las Vegas, winning each time. I think CIMA is going to pick up the first victory for his side in this rivalry at Fyter Fest.
(Prediction: CIMA)

Andrew: This is a classic pick em match as either star can win and it doesn’t really matter who goes over. What does matter is laying out and presenting a quality style match.
(Prediction: Christopher Daniels)

Jeff: With AEW being a wrestler-run company, they have to be very conscious of executives and higher ups booking themselves to win. Now, I don’t think we’re in Hogan/Nitro territory by any stretch of the imagination, and as long as the story makes sense they will be fine. But it’s something they have to keep in the back of their minds. Daniels is head of Talent Relations (The HHH Role) and CIMA is president of OWE, with whom they’d like to have good Talent Relations, I’m sure. I’m saying that CIMA wins here to build up not only himself, but OWE. (Prediction: CIMA)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, CIMA

Hangman Page vs. Jimmy Havoc vs. MJF vs. Jungle Boy

Ian: Hangman Page will main event the next AEW PPV so it’s likely the promotion wants him to look as strong as possible in the build-up. I’m expecting him to be the main focus of this match, get some revenge on MJF for DoN, and then move on to All Out on a hot streak.
(Prediction: Hangman Page)

Andrew: This is a fun match that could go anywhere regarding the winner. Ideally, with Page being built up as a credible star and potential World Champion then there’s no reason for him to lose here. However, someone else could lose the fall and keep Page looking strong if that’s the route they want to go.
(Prediction: Hangman Page)

Jeff: I think that logic dictates that Jungle Boy or Jimmy Havoc would be the ones taking a pin here, but wrestling has never been logical and neither have I. Let’s make a star here. All four of these guys can go and they will shoot the lights out, but I think MJF will try and sneak in a win, only to find Jungle Boy with an unlikely victory. (Prediction: Jungle Boy)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Hangman Page

Nyla Rose vs. Yuka Sakazaki vs. Riho

Ian: Nyla Rose and Awesome Kong took each other out of the 4-way match at Double or Nothing and it seems likely things aren’t finished between the two monsters of the women’s division. I’m expecting Rose to roll through both Sakazaki and Riho here, though not before both are able to showcase their Joshi style a little. Rose should end this match looking real strong as the promotion builds towards her versus Kong. (Prediction: Nyla Rose)

Andrew: This is just a filler match in my opinion although I think that Sakazaki is a fun wrestler to watch. I see Rose being a big player in the women’s division in AEW and thus, gets the win here.
(Prediction: Nyla Rose)

Jeff: Since Nyla Rose wasn’t involved in the finish of the killer 4-way at Double or Nothing, I think she’s the easy choice for a win here. She’s going to be a big player in the Women’s Division heading into TV and this is a great way to build her up. Admittedly, I’m not as familiar with her opponents in this match, but in the context of AEW this makes the most sense. (Prediction: Nyla Rose)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Nyla Rose

Jon Moxley vs. Joey Janela

Ian: I don’t think there will be any surprises here as Moxley will pick up his first victory in AEW here. Expect Joey Janela to give this match everything he has, similar to what he did at All In against Hangman Page. Janela and Moxley strike me as two guys who aren’t going to hold back when they don’t have. They won’t have to here so expect something good to occur.
(Prediction: Jon Moxley)

Andrew: While Janaela is extremely talented, there’s no reason for Moxley to lose here unless Kenny Omega gets involved to further their storyline and match at All Out. Moxley needs a win here and shouldn’t lose until he gets to All Out.
(Prediction: Jon Moxley)

Jeff: Show me someone who says that they aren’t excited for this match and I’ll show you someone who’s probably dead inside. This match is going to RIP. Mox has been tearing it up in Japan, and Joey Janela is no slouch either. As to who wins here at Fyter Fest, I have to go with Moxley. He’s on a hot run and is clearly going to be a centrepiece of AEW going forward, so let’s keep his chaotic, bloody momentum going. (Prediction: Jon Moxley)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Jon Moxley

Cody vs. Darby Allin

Ian: There is a reason Darby Allin is in AEW and there is a reason he is facing Cody here. Allin is someone who the AEW crowd will really respond to. Expect Allin to give Cody a run for his money but ultimately come up short. It will establish Allin without costing Cody anything. Two weeks after this match, Cody will team with his brother to go up against the Young Bucks. At some point at Fyter Fest, something will happen between the team of Cody and Dustin and The Young Bucks to build to that match. It could possibly happen here.
(Prediction: Cody)

Andrew: This is going to be an interesting match due to the dynamic of the talent involved in this contest. I find it hard to believe that Allin wins here considering the stature of Cody in the promotion. Cody wins but Allin gets a rub off of losing to him.
(Prediction: Cody)

Jeff: This will be a really intriguing matchup. Cody singles matches are always full of drama and fun, but Allin is somewhat of a wild card to me as an opponent. In my mind, it’d be cool for Allin to win this match too give him a bit of a mainstream rub and also to give Cody a bit of a chip on his shoulder heading into his tag match with Dustin at All Out. Then they’d both have something to prove against those Bucks of Youth. (Prediction: Darby Allin)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Cody

The Elite vs. Lucha Bros & Laredo Kid

Ian: Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks will pick up the victory here to send the crowd home happy. Omega needs a win after losing to Jericho and the Bucks just lost the AAA titles at Verano De Escandalo to the Lucha Bros. From here the Young Bucks will take on the Cody and Dustin at Fight for the Fallen. This match here at AEW Fyter Fest could build to that match in some way.
(Prediction: The Elite)

Andrew: While the Bucks and Bros have gone back and forth with trading wins as of late, I think that this is an easy pick with an easy excuse for a loss to Bros. Omega and Bucks should go over here as I think this will be a great match and with them winning, it would feel like a good feel win for the live crowd. There is much more storytelling involving these teams. (Prediction: The Elite)

Jeff: I’ll be honest, normally 6-man tags don’t do much for me unless there’s a ladder involved. This is not to say there haven’t been great ones, but for me, it’s not a match I’m usually that into. That said, with the talent assembled here? It might be the greatest multi-man tag match assembled since Steve Austin led a team into Calgary against the Harts. This is going to be crazy, and I think the team of Omega/Young Bucks is going to win to end the show at AEW Fyter Fest. Matt and Nick can get their win back against the Luchas and Omega can look good before heading into All Out. (Prediction: The Elite)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Elite

What do you think of the above AEW Fyter Fest predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Saturday evening for live AEW Fyter Fest results coverage.

Posted June 29th, 2019 in Features, AEW, News. Tagged: .

Kyle O’Reilly Pulled From EVOLVE 129 & EVOLVE 130

It looks like the EVOLVE Wrestling in-ring return of The Undisputed ERA’s Kyle O’Reilly will not be happening this weekend after all.

O’Reilly was originally scheduled to make his in-ring return for the EVOLVE Wrestling promotion at their scheduled events this Saturday and Sunday, however the announcement was made by the promotion on Monday morning that he has been pulled from both shows.

“We are sorry to inform you that Kyle O’Reilly will not be able to compete at EVOLVE this weekend,” wrote the promotion in an announcement released via their official Twitter page today. “We were just given the news. We will have more information and updated cards later today or tomorrow. Thank you for understanding.”

O’Reilly joins fellow NXT Superstar Bobby Fish in pulling out of an EVOLVE in-ring return. The Undisputed ERA member also announced he will not be able to wrestle at the shows last week, but noted he will still be appearing at his meet and greets as advertised.

Kyle O’Reilly Pulled From Significant Matches On The Cards

EVOLVE 129 is scheduled to emanate from La Boom in Queens, New York this Saturday, June 29th. The advertised main event for the show is Austin Theory vs. Leon Ruff for the EVOLVE Championship.

O’Reilly was advertised to team with fellow Undisputed ERA member Roderick Strong in a tag-team match against WWN Champion JD Drake and Anthony Henry that was actually promoted by WWE with a featured article on their official website.

EVOLVE 130 goes down from the Saint Finbar Catholic Church Gym in Brooklyn, New York this Sunday, June 30th. The main event for that show will be NXT Superstar Roderick Strong vs. EVOLVE Champion Austin Theory in a “Non-Title Grudge Match.”

On the 6/30 card, O’Reilly was advertised to take on Josh Briggs in one-on-one action, with his NXT tag-team partner Bobby Fish in his corner.

EVOLVE has yet to announce a replacement for either match involving Kyle O’Reilly this weekend.

Possible Reason For Kyle O’Reilly Pulling Out Of EVOLVE Return

As far as the reason for O’Reilly being pulled from the card this close to the show, while no explanation has been provided as of this writing, it is worth noting that he also pulled out of the NXT U.K. television taping at the U.K. Download Festival at Donnington Park back on June 14th. The reason given was a back injury that O’Reilly suffered in the ladder match at the NXT TakeOver: XXV live WWE Network special back on June 1st.

“The medical man told me my back is still hurt so unfortunately I won’t be able to attend [the U.K. Download Festival] this year,” O’Reilly wrote via Twitter after being pulled from the NXT U.K. TV taping on 6/14. “I’m sorry to all the great U.K. fans.”

We will keep you posted as new information regarding Kyle O’Reilly’s status and replacements for EVOLVE 129 and EVOLVE 130 become available. Until then, make sure to follow us on Twitter @SEScoops for around-the-clock coverage of all pro wrestling news and rumors.

What are YOUR thoughts on Kyle O’Reilly pulling out of EVOLVE 129 and EVOLVE 130 this weekend? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted June 24th, 2019 in NXT. Tagged: .

Backstage Reason Why Vince McMahon Features R-Truth On WWE TV So Often

Apparently there is a reason R-Truth is being featured on WWE television and in highly-viewed social media segments as of late.

It’s actually a pretty simple one, too.

Basically, Vince McMahon loves Ron Killings as a performer. Through years of working together, McMahon has reportedly discovered that Killings, more than others, appears to be up for anything.

And in the world of Vince McMahon and WWE, being “up for anything” could mean just that … absolutely anything.

Regardless, Killings is supposedly not only up for doing anything, but in Vince’s eyes, he seems to be into it as well.

Fans Can Expect “A Lot More” R-Truth On WWE TV

There appears to be plans to feature R-Truth “a lot more” on WWE television and in special social media segments centered around the new WWE 24/7 Championship.

As seen this week, Truth attacked 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick at his real-life wedding with former Mae Young Classic competitor Renee Michelle to reclaim the WWE 24/7 Championship for the sixth time.

The video of R-Truth attacking and winning back the WWE 24/7 title at Drake Maverick’s wedding has been viewed over 3.4 million times (3,437,536 views as of this writing).

Past videos of WWE 24/7 title changes have reportedly drawn significantly well on WWE’s various social media platforms as well, which means fans can expect this trend to continue going forward.

Vince McMahon & R-Truth’s Working Relationship Over The Years

Regarding Vince McMahon’s fondness of R-Truth, Paul Davis of WrestlingNews.co spoke with a source who talked at length about their working relationship over the years and why Vince is so high on the veteran performer.

“Vince loves Ron,” said the source. “Everyone loves Ron but Vince really loves the guy because he is up for everything. Sometimes Vince can tell when someone is not into what they are doing because it’s silly or whatever. You never see that with Ron and Vince loves that. I think Ron will have a job for life here if he wants it.”

The source added, “Remember little Jimmy? Vince loved that stuff. He would laugh so hard at that stuff.”

Additionally, Davis’ source discussed a short-lived heel run that Vince gave R-Truth in WWE back in 2011 and why it didn’t last that long.

“Yeah, that is because Vince wanted him to do comedy again,” the source said. “He says the fans smile when they see Ron so he needed to go back to being a face.”

The source concluded, “Vince didn’t like him as a heel.”

What do YOU think about the recent WWE 24/7 title changes on social media? Are you fond of the frequent R-Truth comedy segments? Sound off on this story in the “Comments” section below.

Posted June 23rd, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Matt Hardy & Reby Sky Reveal Gender Of Third Child Together

The “Baby Hardy Boyz Trio” is on the way.

Matt Hardy took to social media on Saturday to post an update on the new child he and wife Reby Sky are currently expecting.

The future WWE Hall Of Famer revealed that the two are expecting a third boy together in a tweet he posted this afternoon.

“The NEW Baby Hardy is a…. BOY!” wrote Hardy via his official Twitter page (@MATTHARDYBRAND). “The #BabyHardyBoyz Trio is coming!”

Hardy and Sky were married back in October of 2013 and already have two children together — boys — Maxel (3) and Wolfgang Xander (2).

Hardy’s Build-Up To Gender Reveal

Earlier this week, Hardy broke the news via Twitter that he and Reby were expecting a third child together.

“Super excited to announce that a brand new Hardy [will be] debuting soon to join #HouseHardy,” Matt wrote via Twitter on Tuesday. “Will it be another Hardy Boy? Or will it be a Hardy Girl? What I do know is that it shall be absolutely WONDERFUL!”

Check out photos below of Matt Hardy and Reby Sky together with their Ultrasound results in a special photo shoot the two did together this weekend.

What are your thoughts on the news that Matt Hardy and Reby Sky are expecting a third baby boy together? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted June 22nd, 2019 in WWE. Tagged: , .

Carmella Shares First Public Photo With Boyfriend Corey Graves

Carmella and Corey Graves are finally going public with their relationship.

The two WWE performers have been dating for some time now. Their relationship first became public knowledge when the two were accused of being involved in an affair by Graves’ ex-wife. The two would ultimately deny the claims.

This week, Carmella took to social media to finally post the first public photo of the two together. She posted a photo of the two laughing together on her official Instagram page on Friday with a caption that reads as follows:

“The goal is to laugh forever with someone you take serious.”

Check out the first public photo of the happy WWE couple below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/By_O6HJgfB3/

The goal is to laugh forever with someone you take serious. ?

A post shared by Leah Van Damme (@carmellawwe) on Jun 21, 2019 at 3:08pm PDT

What do you think of the Corey Graves and Carmella news? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.

Posted June 22nd, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

WWE Stomping Grounds Predictions

WWE returns to the pay-per-view arena this weekend with their first-ever WWE Stomping Grounds show from the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington on Sunday, June 23rd. The show will feature seven championship matches in what will be a nine-match card that will stream live via the WWE Network starting at 7pm Eastern Time, with a one-hour Kickoff Show starting at 6pm Eastern Time.

In the headline spot at WWE Stomping Grounds will be WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins defending his title against Baron Corbin. “The Architect” defeated the “Lone Wolf” at the WWE Super ShowDown PPV in Saudi Arabia less than three weeks ago, fending off an attempted cash-in by “Mr. Beast in the Bank” Brock Lesnar in the process. At WWE Stomping Grounds, Rollins will once again be put in a position where he must defy the odds, as he will have the unique dynamic of Corbin picking a special mystery guest referee to deal with in their match.

In the co-main event slot, Kofi Kingston will defend the WWE Championship against Dolph Ziggler in another WWE Super ShowDown rematch, however this time he will do so inside the confines of a Steel Cage.

Other title matches on the WWE Stomping Grounds card include Becky Lynch vs. Lacey Evans for the RAW Women’s Championship, Bayley vs. Alexa Bliss for the SmackDown Women’s Championship, Samoa Joe vs. Ricochet for the WWE United States Championship, Daniel Bryan & Rowan vs. Heavy Machinery for the SmackDown Tag-Team Championships and Tony Nese vs. Akira Tozawa vs. Drew Gulak for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship.

Non-title matches rounding out WWE Stomping Grounds this Sunday night are Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre in a one-on-one rematch from WrestleMania 35, as well as Big E. & Xavier Woods from The New Day taking on the duo of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in tag-team action.

As is the case before every major pay-per-view event, SEScoops.com compiles a handful of pro wrestling journalists to provide their in-depth insight and analysis into each match scheduled on the card in our SEScoops.com Predictions Roundtable feature. Joining us for this WWE Stomping Grounds installment will be veteran staff writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss.

Without further adieu, let’s take a look at the SEScoops.com predictions for WWE Stomping Grounds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-7RG-0c7Bg

Tony Nese vs. Akira Tozawa vs. Drew Gulak (WWE Cruiserweight Title)

Ian Carey: Honestly, I’d put the title on Gulak here. If anything, Gulak can at least cut promos, draw up some interest on social media or do something to give people a reason to watch 205 Live. They won’t do it, though, pulling the trigger on anything in 205 Live right now seems like it isn’t happening. The big storyline on the show right now is the whole roster is upset that their GM is more concerned with the 24/7 title. Nese will pick up the win here as it doesn’t seem as though they are building up any of the challengers here as future champions. (Prediction: Tony Nese)

Andrew Ravens: Although I like Tozawa and Gulak, I don’t see them as future champions. Thus, it certainly won’t start here and no good reason to do it. WWE typically likes for the champion on 205 Live to have a lengthy title reign and I see that with Nese.
(Prediction: Tony Nese)

Jeff Moss: I haven’t been following 205 Live as closely as I should have been (What’s the point? It has like, no Shane McMahon content) but I’ve been loving the hell out of Drew Gulak’s few matches in NXT over the last little while. Tony Nese is great, and Akira Tozawa sure can yell, but I’d love to see that purple strap around Gulak’s waist. Then let him defend it on Raw, Smackdown and NXT. Let’s blur a few lines here and show off how great the Cruiserweights can be. Y’know without making the ropes purple. (Prediction: Drew Gulak)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Tony Nese

Big E. & Xavier Woods vs. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn

Ian: Owens and Zayn have been losing big matches on RAW and Smackdown every week it seems, so there’s little harm in having them do the same on PPV this Sunday. I wouldn’t expect this match to be long but it’ll give New Day a chance to get the crowd going. There could be a fair amount of comedy here as well. (Prediction: Big E. & Xavier Woods)

Andrew: A pick em here as either team could win. Purely on the fact that I think Kofi Kingston retains his WWE Title on this show, I have the heels going over and getting the win as winning would help them more than Big E and Woods at this point in time.
(Prediction: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn)

Jeff: It’ll be nice to see Big E back in the ring and while I love anything that Kevin and Sami do, I have to ask: what is the point of this? Does this match exist to simply so someone can interfere? If so, who? Is it so Sami can yell at us some more? Is it revenge for the 5 minutes I was excited during the “Big O” saga? Does Vince really just like watching Sami lose matches that much? SHANE MCMAHON?!?!?!!? (Prediction: Big E. & Xavier Woods)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Big E. & Xavier Woods

Daniel Bryan & Rowan vs. Heavy Machinery (SmackDown Tag Titles)

Ian: Much like Samoa Joe might using under-handed tactics to retain his title, the Planet’s tag team champions will likely do the same here. The match doesn’t seem high-profile enough for Rowan and Bryan to drop the belts and I doubt they want Heavy Machinery to lose clean yet. Sometime of chicanery, likely from Daniel Bryan, will lead to a controversial win or DQ loss for the champs. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Rowan)

Andrew: Another match was built upon less than a week and wouldn’t make much sense to do a title change here. Why Heavy Machinery is a good act, they are a comedy and not serious contenders. That’s a problem when trying to build challengers to be taken seriously.
(Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Rowan)

Jeff: Please, put the titles on Heavy Machinery. Put them on Heavy Machinery and let the weirdness commence. I know I’ve been pretty dour and Shane McMahon-heavy in this prediction piece, so give me something fun. Please. Let Daniel Bryan move to Raw and work with Seth. Let Rowan… be tall somewhere. Wth AEW openly stating that they are making tag team wrestling a priority, either throw something at me to compete with that, or just kill the division all together. I can’t miss something if it never leaves after all. Hey, what are the Revival up to these days? Are they the RAW champions still? (Prediction: Heavy Machinery)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Daniel Bryan & Rowan

Samoa Joe vs. Ricochet (WWE United States Title)

Ian: This match is likely the one die-hard fans are looking forward to the most, though it’s not certain how much time they will be given. Two options are possible. One is that Ricochet scores the big title win, leading Joe to become infuriated and want revenge, and the other is that Joe cheats to retain. One way or another, WWE will want Ricochet to look strong here as he is essentially replacing Rey Mysterio in his feud with Joe minus the parental part of the angle. Joe cheating to win seems more likely but either is possible. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Andrew: As much as I would like to see Ricochet get his first title win on the main roster, I don’t see that happening as Joe was just crowned the new champion. This match was built upon less than a week and wouldn’t make much sense to do a title change here.
(Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Jeff: This is the one match on this absolutely brutal card that I’m actually looking forward to. Joe’s a heavy, ground-based hitter and Ricochet is, well, freakin’ Ricochet. This should be a great match and depending on who can adapt better to who, could be the crowning of a new champion. I suspect though that Ricochet’s “inexperience” will play a factor and Joe will catch him going for a high-flying move of some kind and retain, which ain’t the worst thing in the world. The best part? Neither of them are Shane McMahon. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Samoa Joe

Roman Reigns vs. Drew McIntyre

Ian: Roman should win purely because he lost to Shane McMahon at Super ShowDown and WWE will want to rehab him from that. They could have just not booked him to lose in Saudi Arabia, then leading to a tougher challenge with Drew McIntyre here but that just does not seem to be how this angle is being booked. Reigns will win, setting up another match with Shane McMahon so the Big Dog can get his revenge. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Andrew: Reigns just lost to Shane McMahon at Super ShowDown so unless they do a screwy finish, Reigns should go over here as a loss doesn’t hurt McIntyre as he’s losing to WWE’s chosen one in the process. This will ultimately lead to another match with Reigns vs. McMahon, potentially at SummerSlam.
(Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Jeff: This one is tough, but I predict that the big guy with long hair will triumph over the big guy with long hair. Seriously though, we’re all going to look pretty silly when Shane McMahon somehow wins this match, which in spite of all my jokes so far, may actually happen here. Unless WWE has some massive sleeves with even more massive tricks up them, this is going to be dry toast with a side of soda crackers. But, someone has to come out of this looking strong and there’s no one better at looking strong than Roman Reigns. Except Finn Balor. He looks TOO strong, that’s why he and the Intercontinental titled had to be cut from the card. I assume. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Roman Reigns

Bayley vs. Alexa Bliss (SmackDown Women’s Title)

Ian: Vince McMahon loves Alexa Bliss, which is likely the reason Bliss has spent so much of her main roster career as a champion. There is a built-in angle for Bliss to lose here, though. Nikki Cross is Bliss’ underling and has been doing and saying things to gain our sympathy. Nikki will try and cost Bayley the title, it won’t work, and she’ll end up costing Bliss the match, leading to Bliss and Nikki down the road. (Prediction: Bayley)

Andrew: I could see WWE doing a shocking finish and having Bliss win here but Bayley just won the title so unless they want her to chase again, she should retain her. WWE has a solid storyline behind this feud that can easily be extended into next month.
(Prediction: Bayley)

Jeff: Hey, everyone remembers that Alexa isn’t even on Smackdown, right? Or has she been permanently Wild Carded? This is one of those matches where the “heel” isn’t saying anything that’s particularly “heelish” she’s just stating the facts. Bayley DID peak in NXT. Bayley IS a placeholder champion. At least, this is what WWE has made her into. Since Shane McMahon doesn’t want a women’s title (yet), Bayley has a chance to remind us here why she’s everyone’s favourite hugger, but I’ve got so little confidence in what WWE allows it’s talent to do, I expect it to be another dry patch in a night of dry patches, but one that keeps the strap on Bayley. (Prediction: Bayley)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Bayley

Becky Lynch vs. Lacey Evans (RAW Women’s Title)

Ian: They wouldn’t put the title on Lacey Evans would they? No, no that would be too much… right? After all, Lacey is fresh out of developmental, didn’t work much in NXT, and doesn’t have a lot of experience. Meanwhile, Becky is coming off of main event’ing WrestleMania and is arguably the hottest act in the company.So, they wouldn’t do it, right? I’m taking Becky Lynch here. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

Andrew: In my opinion, this is the easiest pick on the card as Lynch continues her dominance in the women’s division. Obviously, WWE is high on Evans but it seems like she has to grow much more before she can be considered a worthy title contender and eventual champion.
(Prediction: Becky Lynch)

Jeff: If you haven’t noticed by now, WWE seems to be in a holding pattern. A boring, boring holding pattern, and as a result I don’t see any titles changing hands (unless Shane McMahon is involved). The Raw Women’s title is in a hard spot right now. Lacey Evans is NOT ready to be champion. Becky Lynch is infinitely more entertaining chasing the title instead of holding it, simply because they don’t have any real competition lined up for her. Presuming Sasha Banks doesn’t return from “vacation” that is. So, Becky keeps the belt here so they can continue being extremely tasteful and playing up the “Championship Couple” of her and Seth. Good to see WWE and the Women’s Revolution have moved on from women being enhancement characters for their boyfriends. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Becky Lynch

Kofi Kingston vs. Dolph Ziggler Steel Cage Match (WWE Title)

Ian: Lesnar cashing in on Kofi at some point is possible but it’s not happening here. Lesnar likely won’t be in Tacoma and a steel cage match is not an ideal place for MITB cash-in. When the time is right, however, Kofi dropping the title in less-than-fair circumstances is how they will try and get the title off him. It’s not happening here, however, and it’s not going to be Ziggler who does it. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Andrew: This is one of the easiest picks on the card as there’s no real reason to put the title on Ziggler at this point. WWE has done a good job of getting Kingston over as a babyface that fans can get behind and Ziggler has done a fine job at the role that he’s been put into. It appears that this path will be over and most likely Kingston feuds with Kevin Owens next.
(Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Jeff: Kofi has been here for 11 years, yadda yadda, Ziggler deserves it more, blah blah, fans turned their backs, so on, so forth. We’ve danced this dance so many times (and as recently as a couple weeks ago) that it’s hard to get excited about this match, even if it’s in a steel cage. Kofi wins, but it’s gonna be super weird when Shane McMahon walks away with the title in a Hogan-At-Wrestlemania-9 move. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Kofi Kingston

Seth Rollins vs. Baron Corbin With Mystery Referee (WWE Universal Title)

Ian: I have to imagine Seth Rollins is winning here but I’m not sure the match result is what will be most notable. There are two big questions regarding this match, the first being who the referee will be and the second is will Brock Lesnar cash-in? It feels as though no matter what the answer to either of those questions, it’ll be a let down. If Lesnar was going to be there they would have announced it, what with all they are doing to try and boost ticket sales. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Andrew: We’ve seen it before and will also see the same outcome as Super ShowDown. Obviously, the majority of fans are tired of seeing Corbin continue to be put in the main event scene. With this being a rematch, let’s hope WWE goes into a different direction come Extreme Rules next month. It will be interesting to see who’s next to challenge Rollins.
(Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Jeff: Shane McMahon is the special Guest Referee. The Brock cashes in his Money In the Bank contract. Then Shane produces a second MITB contract, cashes that in and becomes Universal Champion. Baron Corbin will also be there. Seriously though, the most entertaining thing the WWE has done in weeks is Seth Rollins madly destroying anyone who even thinks about being the special guest referee with a never-ending supply of chairs. Seth retains here, and please, for all of our sakes, moves onto a feud with someone who can actually feud back and main selling feature isn’t just “wears a vest for no reason now.” (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Seth Rollins

What are the “real experts'” predictions for this Sunday? Find out by checking out the latest WWE Stomping Grounds Betting Odds. What are YOUR predictions for this Sunday? Share them in the Comments section below.

Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com this Sunday for WWE Stomping Grounds results coverage.

Posted June 20th, 2019 in Features, News, WWE.

John Cena Loses “$1 Bet” With MLB Pitcher Logan Allen, Cena & Allen Comment

It looks like it’s time for John Cena to “pay up.”

The longtime WWE Superstar made a public one-dollar bet with MLB pitching prospect Logan Allen back in March. The terms of the bet were simple — if Allen makes it to the big leagues, Cena promised to hand over an autographed one-dollar bill to the MLB player. If Allen doesn’t make it to the big show, he’ll do the same for Cena.

WWE.com wrote the following about the bet back on March 8th:

“If and when Allen makes it to the show, Cena plans on delivering the dollar to Allen in person at Petco Park in San Diego.”

The WWE website article on the story also included a quote from Cena’s interview with Dennis Lin of The Athletic back on March 7th.

“It’ll be the greatest dollar that I ever spent,” Cena said to The Athletic of the bet with Allen.

John Cena Loses Bet With Logan Allen

Cena admitted in a tweet posted back in March when the story of the bet came out that he hopes he is wrong and that he would be honored to pay-up if it helps motivate Allen to reach his goal.

Well, that’s exactly what happened, as Logan Allen will make his first start for the MLB’s San Diego Padres franchise this week.

The future WWE Hall Of Famer and host of “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?” on Nickelodeon took to social media to post another update about the bet with Logan Allen.

“So, so thankful for [WWE] being in my life,” Cena wrote on Tuesday afternoon, as we noted here at SEScoops.com. “Sometimes ‘you can’t see me,’ but I’m always closer than you think.”

Cena added, “Love all of you and thank you for a wonderful evening. Tonight is another chance to be part of something so special #onedollarbet.”

Allen, MLB Tout Victory Over Cena In “$1 Bet”

Logan Allen also took to social media to comment on his bet with the pro wrestling legend.

“Unbelievable night,” Allen wrote via his official Twitter page. “One I truly will not forget. Thank you to everyone that reached out.”

He continued, “John Cena … you owe me a [dollar]. Let’s Go Padres!”

Additionally, the San Diego Padres released a video about the bet in a new tweet posted on Tuesday afternoon. The tweet would prompt another response from Cena.

“Tonight, [Logan Allen] earns his dollar from [John Cena] as he makes his Major League debut,” the San Diego Padres Twitter page wrote on Tuesday evening. “Tomorrow, the dollar gets paid in person. #onedollarbet.”

Cena replied, “Never underestimate the value of a dollar. Tomorrow I will gladly pay what is owed. Tonight is something special. #OneDollarBet.”

For more on the bet between Cena and Allen, check out the following story published on Wednesday on the official Major League Baseball (MLB) website at MLB.com.

Posted June 19th, 2019 in WWE. Tagged: .

The Crusher Statue Unveiling At ‘CrusherFest’ In South Milwaukee (Photos)

Late pro wrestling legend Reggie “Da Crusher” Lisowski has been immortalized by the city of Milwaukee.

This past week, the unveiling of a statue in honor of the late pro wrestling legend who had a historic career that spanned over five decades across 40 years, was unveiled at the special two-day CrusherFest festivities in South Milwaukee.

The Crusher was best known for his run in Verne Gagne’s American Wrestling Association (AWA) promotion.

The Crusher Makes His Mark In AWA, WWE

During his run with the company, The Crusher was a former three-time AWA World Heavyweight Champion and a former nine-time AWA World Tag-Team Champion with Dick the Bruiser (5), Verne Gagne (1), Red Bastien (1), Billy Robinson (1) and Baron von Raschke (1).

He also worked for Vince McMahon Sr. at the original World Wide Wrestling Federation, the promotion that would later become WWE, in the late 1960s, before returning to work for Vince McMahon when the AWA promotion was nearing its’ end in the 1980s.

During his original run with WWE, The Crusher worked with Johnny Valentine and a young Bruno Sammartino. When he returned in the 1980s, he worked a part-time schedule, mostly wrestling at the house shows in the Midwest area where his star-power was the strongest.

His last match for WWE was at a house show in Omaha, Nebraska on February 15, 1988. He filled-in for Billy Jack Haynes to team with Ken Patera, defeating the team of Demolition (Ax and Smash) via disqualification when their manager, WWE Hall Of Famer Mr. Fuji, tripped The Crusher with his cane.

The Crusher’s final television appearance for WWE was at their WWE In Your House – Over The Edge 1998 pay-per-view on May 31, 1998 at the Wisconsin Center Arena in Milwaukee. He was seated in the front row with fellow wrestling legend Mad Dog Vachon and was actually used in an angle on camera.

On commentary, Jerry “The King” Lawler referenced the two, mocking their age and trying to steal Vachon’s artificial leg, only to get hit by Vachon with it before The Crusher decked him with a punch.

CrusherFest Well Attended, Jerry Lawler Arrives Late

At the ceremony to celebrate his life and career over the weekend, South Milwaukee Mayor Erik Brooks declared June 8, 2019 “Reggie ‘Da Crusher’ Lisowski Day” in honor of his memory.

“What an amazing crowd; this is unbelievable,” said Brooks at the ceremony this past Saturday. “This is a beautiful, bold and lasting tribute.”

A number of additional politicians attended the event as well, including State Representative Jessie Rodriguez, State Senator Chris Larson and County Supervisor Steve Shea.

Governor Tony Evers also issued a proclamation that Larson delivered as Evers was unable to attend.

Members of the Lisowski family were also in attendance, as were various pro wrestling legends and current performers.

Fellow AWA legend Baron Von Raschke was also in attendance at the event, giving a short speech in honor of ‘Da Crusher.’

WWE Hall Of Famer and another former AWA World Heavyweight Champion, Jerry “The King” Lawler, was scheduled to attend, however his flight was reportedly late so he wasn’t able to make it in time for the unveiling of the statue in honor of Lisowski.

Statue Unveiled Thanks To GoFundMe Campaign

The statue that was made by Milwaukee-based artist Thomas Holleran featured The Crusher holding a beer barrel on his shoulder with an iconic facial expression and wearing a title belt that reads, “The Crusher.”

Vanguard Sculpture Services created the statue and Holleran designed the sculpture with the help of Lisowski’s family. The statue is estimated to weigh over 600 pounds.

The statue was funded by a GoFundMe campaign that was started in late-2017. The campaign ended up going viral with donations rapidly coming in and easily reaching the goal of $40,000 within a few months.

Reggie “Da Crusher” Lisowski passed away in 2005 of a brain tumor. He was 79.

Check out some photos and clips from the two-day CrusherFest event below. For additional coverage of this past weekend’s CrusherFest events, check out some more local news articles at JSOnline.com and TMJ4.com.

https://twitter.com/MrMykal87/status/1137469576629837824

DISCUSSION: What do YOU think of the CrusherFest two-day events? What is your thoughts on the statue and how it was funded? Share your memories of Da Crusher and chat about CrusherFest via the Comments section below.

Posted June 10th, 2019 in News.

WWE Super ShowDown Predictions

WWE returns to King Abdullah Sports City’s King Abdullah International Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this Friday for their WWE Super ShowDown live special on the WWE Network. The event marks the second show promoted under the “Super ShowDown” chronology, and the third under WWE’s new 10-year partnership supporting Saudi Vision 2030.

The company has promoted the WWE Super ShowDown special as a “WrestleMania equivalent” event, with a stacked lineup featuring several high-profile matches. Three WWE legends who don’t often perform will be dusting off their ring gear for featured matches on the card. Triple H will battle longtime rival Randy Orton, and The Undertaker returns to square-off against WWE Hall Of Famer Bill Goldberg in their “First Time Ever” showdown.

Additionally, WWE has announced a 50-Man Battle Royal and three title matches. Seth Rollins will defend his WWE Universal Championship against Baron Corbin, Kofi Kingston will put his WWE Championship on-the-line against Dolph Ziggler and “The Demon” Finn Balor returns against Andrade in a WWE Intercontinental Championship match.

Rounding out the card this Friday is a 3-On-1 Handicap Match, with Lars Sullivan taking on all three members of Lucha House Party (Kalisto, Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado). Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon and Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley is also scheduled.

Ahead of Friday’s highly-anticipated live special in Saudi Arabia, three SEScoops.com writers have come together to provide their in-depth analysis and insight into each match on the card, as well as their predictions for each bout. Veteran journalists Ian Carey, Matt Boone and Andrew Ravens have prepared their breakdowns and picks for Friday’s matches, so without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com predictions for WWE Super ShowDown.

Lars Sullivan vs. Lucha House Party

Ian Carey: I have to go with Lars Sullivan on this one. They are going to push Sullivan to the top of the card and having him destroy 3 luchadors on a show that is equal to or greater than WrestleMania is a good chance to showcase him. WWE didn’t match Sullivan up against 3 wrestlers half his size for him to lose. Consider this 3 squash matches in one.
(Prediction: Lars Sullivan)

Matt Boone: This appears to be a clear old-school “build a monster” handicap match. Three little dudes who have speed, agility and high-risk offensive skill sets against a big, strong dude who needs to be established as a killer. With that said, the outcome should be pretty obvious. This should be a good opening match to warm up the fans in Jeddah. (Prediction: Lars Sullivan)

Andrew Ravens: This is the easiest pick on the card as there’s no reason for Sullivan to lose here. I actually think that you could save this for television but WWE must have long events so they booked it here. Sullivan is the next big monster in WWE and will be victorious. (Prediction: Lars Sullivan)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Lars Sullivan

Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley

Ian: Braun Strowman should win this handily. If WWE wanted to push Lashley to the top of the card to face Brock or challenge for a title, they could do it but they would have done it by now if that’s what they were thinking. Strowman should win this on route to being pushed back to the Universal title picture. That we are more than 1-year since Strowman won the Greatest Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia and still hasn’t held a world title seems off. At some point, they have to make Strowman a champion. He shouldn’t lose again until that happens.
(Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Matt: I’m not really sure what to expect in this one in terms of substance. Clearly “The Monster Among Men” should be the favorite in this one, however there’s always the chance, especially in this particular contest, for some storyline-related shenanigans to affect the outcome. The last time Strowman was in Saudi Arabia, he won the “Greatest Royal Rumble” match and appeared geared towards a push to the title picture in the top of the mix in WWE. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Andrew: Unless WWE just wants to have a shock finish, Strowman should win here. I must point out that WWE doesn’t seem to know what to do with him right now as in one aspect, he’s a monster while the other the company doesn’t do anything big with him in 2019. Lashley has been lost in the shuffle for quite some time now. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Braun Strowman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pneeONzqMZc

Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon

Ian: Hopefully this feud will end here with the idea being that Shane McMahon won the Best in the World trophy in Saudi Arabia so if Roman wins then he’ll be the Best in the World and everyone can just drop it. That’s my hope anyway. I don’t think I’m alone in saying I find Shane McMahon as a heel unwatchable. Shane as a character is fine, sometimes it’s even pretty good, but this has been terrible.
(Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Matt: It doesn’t seem likely that Roman Reigns is going to travel across the country to lose to Shane McMahon in an undercard match buried half way down the card. With that in mind, I’ve got to believe that “The Big Dog” gets his hand raised when all is said-and-done. I’m sure in between his entrance and his victory celebration, Shane McMahon will jump off a bunch of high crap and get thrown and slammed around like a rag doll a bunch. There will also probably be some interference, likely from a certain man of Scottish descent. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Andrew: This is a questionable match as either guy could win here. While Reigns seems to be ready to move onto a feud with McIntyre, who has been paired with Shane, WWE could change things up and insert him into the Reigns – McIntyre match at Stomping Grounds. Let Reigns get his revenge. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Roman Reigns

“The Demon” Finn Balor (C) vs. Andrade (WWE Intercontinental Title)

Ian: There has been no build-up to this match whatsoever. Part of this has to do with Finn being on vacay since Money in the Bank and that huge ladder bump he took. Andrade may be at a disadvantage if Zelina Vega isn’t with him. Not sure if women valets are allowed on this show that is equal to or greater to WrestleMania. Renee Young is on commentary, perhaps women managers is the next step on the road to finally having women wrestlers on the show. Regardless, Demon Balor should retain here. (Prediction: “The Demon” Finn Balor)

Matt: It seems obvious that Finn Balor should get the “W” if he is dusting off his alter-ego, “The Demon,” for this “WrestleMania equivalent” show. Having said that, there’s part of me that thinks with WWE being high on Andrade, and every big show needing at least one big upset and / or title change, this could be the match for that. When it comes to making picks, however, you always play things safe! (Prediction: “The Demon” Finn Balor)

Andrew: WWE hasn’t done a great job of explaining as to why Balor is bringing back his darker character for this match as there hasn’t been much heat in this feud. Nonetheless, it’s a nice change and a cool sight. While I’m high on Andrade, these are nothing shows so Balor retains. (Prediction: “The Demon” Finn Balor)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, “The Demon” Finn Balor

Kofi Kingston (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler (WWE Title)

Ian: Is it possible to pick Brock Lesnar to win this match? Because I think Brock Lesnar is going to win this match. Think about it, why didn’t he cash in against Seth? Perhaps, Lesnar wants to cash in on Kofi at Super ShowDown. With the “Wild Card” rule a few Brock Lesnar appearances on Smackdown sure would be good for ratings. Before Lesnar cashes in, however, Kofi will pick up the win on Ziggler. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Matt: The return of Dolph Ziggler has been pretty interesting. He’s in the title mix, he’s playing a vicious old-school heel and he’s so long overdue for a run at the top in WWE that it’s beyond laughable at this point. Could this be the match where he captures the WWE Championship and starts the main event / title run he has long-deserved? I hope so, but I’m not convinced that Kofi-Mania is over just yet. I feel The New Day split and Big E. (or a surprise Xavier Woods) heel turn will be the catalyst. Could they turn on him and cost him the title against someone else? If so, Ziggler is as good an option as anyone else. At the end of the day, Kingston leaves Jeddah with a giant gold belt in his luggage. Could that only be because of a DQ win after a super vicious Ziggler beatdown? Hmm. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

Andrew: The only reason Ziggler is booked in this match is due to Kevin Owens not wanting to work it. Thus, he’s not a realistic challenger in my mind or other fans for the most part. It should be a good match but Ziggler is only a bump in the road for Kingston at this time. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Kofi Kingston

Seth Rollins (C) vs. Baron Corbin (WWE Universal Title)

Ian: If Baron Corbin wins the Universal Championship in Saudi Arabia, the groans will be heard worldwide. Corbin’s push to the top of the card on RAW has not been something Vince McMahon and the WWE Universe have seen eye to eye on. As much as WWE likes to push Corbin, I don’t think they will go as far as putting the belt on him. That seems like a step above what even WWE sees Corbin as, let alone the fans. Rollins should retain and possibly move into a program with a new challenger, one not named Brock Lesnar or Baron Corbin.
(Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Matt: Is it at all possible Vinnie Mac convinced Brock Lesnar to get on an airplane to Saudi Arabia this week? “The Beast Incarnate” vowed to cash-in at the WWE Super ShowDown “go-home” edition of RAW this past Monday evening and never did. After beating down WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins on RAW this week, Lesnar shouted “Friday!” to Paul Heyman, leading many to assume that “Mr. Money In The Bank” will cash-in his contract in Saudi Arabia. Although the track-record of delivering on officially advertised promises absolutely sucks as of late in terms of WWE and the Lesnar MITB contract in particular, I believe Friday will be the time when it happens. Having said that, I can’t even begin to speculate on how the cash-in will play out if it goes down, but if he hands over that briefcase, I don’t see any scenario where he doesn’t end up with the WWE Universal Championship as a result. Will a potential cash-in affect the outcome here, or happen after? I feel it will be the latter, and thus … (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Andrew: Ugh, Baron Corbin. Why this company must push this guy to the moon makes no sense to me. Brock Lesnar plays a bigger part in this contest as to whether he waits to see a winner or just cashes in his MITB contract mid-match. I have Corbin beating Rollins, who is hurt in storyline, then have Lesnar cash-in and beat Corbin for the title. (Prediction: Baron Corbin)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Seth Rollins

Triple H vs. Randy Orton

Ian: Based on Triple H’s promo from Monday, I think Orton is winning. Orton is still an active competitor with mileage left. Triple H has no mileage left, he’s just running on fumes at this point. It makes more sense for WWE to have Orton come out of Saudi Arabia looking strong but that doesn’t necessarily mean that is what will happen. It probably made more sense for Sting to beat Triple H at WrestleMania at WM31 but that’s not how things played out. Still, smart money is on Orton here.
(Prediction: Randy Orton)

Matt: This match features a rivalry that has such an incredibly strong off-and-on history in WWE over the past decade-plus. It’s such a shame to see it wasted in a forced-way just to fill up an open ‘big-match slot’ needed on the card. Having said that, the stellar WWE production crew still came through with some slick video packages that tells the storied history of the Triple H / Randy Orton rivalry. In terms of picking a winner, I’ve got to go with “The Game.” If he loses, it will likely be the result of outside interference, distractions or some kind of cheating spot. Just one man’s opinion. (Prediction: Triple H)

Andrew: While WWE has done a decent job at building up this contest, we’ve seen it several times over the years. I would assume that Orton wins here purely on the fact that he’s somewhat full-time at this stage in his career. Also, a loss to Triple H won’t hurt his standing with the fans. (Prediction: Triple H)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Triple H

The Undertaker vs. Goldberg

Ian: The Undertaker should win this match but it won’t be pretty. If Jim Ross watches this match he’ll likely refer to it as “bowling shoe ugly”. Such a comment might be more of a shot at bowling shoes than it is Goldberg and Taker, however. This is the kind of part-timer legends match that you could only do on a show like this now. It’ll be sloppy and hard to watch but it will also be a spectacle. Taker should win here as WWE has more invested in his legacy than Goldberg’s, especially now considering what they likely paid to get him out of Starrcast.
(Prediction: The Undertaker)

Matt: Once again, this is a “WrestleMania equivalent” special event. The Dead Man is associated with flawless performances at WrestleMania, having compiled the legendary 21-0 undefeated streak before dropping two of his next five matches, bringing his current record to 24-2. He lost in his initial WWE Super ShowDown performance in 2018, dropping a No Disqualification match to Triple H in the main event of last year’s show in Australia. The Phenom, along with Kane, also lost to Triple H and Shawn Michaels in the D-Generation X vs. Brothers Of Destruction tag-team main event in the first big WWE Saudi Arabian show, WWE Crown Jewel, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last November. This means outside of a lone victory over Rusev in a Casket Match at the WWE Greatest Royal Rumble event in Jeddah last April, The Undertaker has a winless streak at WWE Super ShowDown and in Saudi Arabia. He’s due for a win in one of these high-profile return bouts. The lone Rusev win on Taker’s Saudi Arabian record was a middle of the pack match, as opposed to a main event, like every other aforementioned example. Plus, as the expected main event, it makes sense that the shows goes off the air with a post-match Undertaker celebration, complete with the iconic music, cool lighting and “big moment” atmosphere. P.S. — Can you imagine convincing the old-school egotistical Bill Goldberg to make a WWE comeback … in Saudi Arabia … for one match … that he is going to lose? Gotta love the new Bill. (Prediction: The Undertaker)

Andrew: What’s the point of this match outside of having a match between two big names. The winner and loser here don’t matter. Hopefully, they will keep it short. I would assume that Taker goes over in a short match only for the reason that he works these shows twice a year. Goldberg heads back to retirement after this event. (Prediction: The Undertaker)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Undertaker

What do you think of the above WWE Super ShowDown predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Friday afternoon (2pm ET / 11am PT) for live results coverage.

Posted June 5th, 2019 in Features, News, WWE. Tagged: .

WWE Super ShowDown 50-Man Battle Royal Update: Four Entrants Confirmed

Although 46 spots remain, we finally have a couple of participants announced for Friday’s WWE Super ShowDown special.

WWE has been advertising “a 50-Man Battle Royal — the largest in WWE history” since the beginning of their promotional push towards their return to the Saudi Arabian market for WWE Super ShowDown on June 7. When the final week leading up to the event began on Monday, there had yet to be a single entrant announced for the match.

In fact, other than the official WWE Super ShowDown mini site at WWE.com, the company hadn’t really acknowledged the match.

Four Superstars Entered Into WWE’s 50-Man Battle Royal

During a commercial break segment on Monday’s “go-home” show for Friday’s live special, Mojo Rawley declared that he would be entering the 50-Man Battle Royal in Saudi Arabia. WWE followed that up on Tuesday night in similar fashion as Elias revealed during an off-air segment on last night’s SmackDown Live that he too would be entering the match.

Additionally, Karl Anderson took to social media on Tuesday evening to announce that he and Luke Gallows will be making the trip to Jeddah this week to compete in the 50-Man Battle Royal.

Other Rumored Entrants For Super ShowDown Battle Royal

While WWE has yet to reveal a list of participants for the match, there have been rumors that NXT Superstars will be flown to Saudi Arabia to be included in the match, with Matt Riddle being one specific name that has been making the rounds.

A.J. Styles has also been rumored, as he has been included in the advertising for WWE Super ShowDown, but does not have a match yet with only two days remaining until the show. With “The Phenomenal One” recovering from an injury as of late, it would make since for WWE to have him work a match with limited physicality.

With the aforementioned entrants now announced for the 50-Man Battle Royal at WWE Super ShowDown, featured below is an updated look at the latest officially advertised lineup for this Friday’s live special:

WWE SUPER SHOW-DOWN 2019

WWE Universal Championship
* Seth Rollins (C) vs. Baron Corbin

WWE Title Match
* Kofi Kingston (C) vs. Dolph Ziggler

WWE Intercontinental Title Match
* “The Demon” Finn Balor (C) vs. Andrade

First Time Ever
* The Undertaker vs. Goldberg

* Triple H vs. Randy Orton

* Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon

* Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley

3-On-1 Handicap Match
* Lars Sullivan vs. Lucha House Party

50-Man Battle Royal
* Participants Include: Mojo Rawley, Elias, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows (46 other entrants to be determined)

WWE Super ShowDown takes place this Friday, June 7th at King Abdullah Sports City’s King Abdullah International Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Friday. The event will be streamed live via the WWE Network starting at 2pm E.T. / 11am P.T. Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com this Friday afternoon for WWE Super ShowDown results coverage.

For detailed analysis and insight, as well as predictions for each match on the card from three veteran pro wrestling journalists, check out our exclusive WWE Super ShowDown Predictions.

Posted June 5th, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: , , , .

Lacey Evans On Proving Herself In WWE, Transition From NXT To RAW, Marine Corps

Lacey Evans has never had it easy, but that’s what makes her the focused, driven performer who is determined to achieve success at the highest level possible in WWE.

Although she is still only 29 years old, Evans has had a long lifetime full of struggles and obstacles en route to her current spot on WWE’s main roster as part of the RAW brand. The three-year WWE veteran who is a former military police officer with the Special Reaction Team (a specialized unit similar to SWAT), recently spoke with Brian Fritz (@BrianFritz) of Sporting News about a number of topics, including taking her daughter on the road with her in WWE.

“It’s amazing. It definitely motivates me,” Evans told Fritz about traveling on the road in WWE with her daughter. “It reminds me why I do what I’m doing and it really helps me through this process. I’m learning a lot within WWE. The biggest thing that I like is the fact that she’s here and she can watch me first-hand work really hard to fight for becoming a champion and doing good at whatever is expected from me.”

Evans continued, “Life is hard, new jobs are hard. They really put you out of your element and it takes a lot. So, to be able to show her first-hand the work that gets put in and show her that she’s capable of anything as long as she works hard, it means a lot to me.”

“The Sassy Southern Belle” knows first-hand about putting work in. She told Fritz, however, that she is eager to do more.

Evolution Of Lacey Evans On WWE Main Roster

After initially coming out, waving and leaving when first joining the WWE main roster, Evans has finally been able to show her physical side as of late.

She recently competed against RAW Women’s Champion Becky Lynch for the title at the WWE Money In The Bank 2019 pay-per-view. Although she came up short in her attempt to capture the top prize on the red brand in her first swing at the plate, she did manage to provide an enormous assist to Charlotte Flair.

Evans helped “The Queen” gain an advantage in her SmackDown Women’s Championship match with Lynch on the same PPV, as she hit “The Man” with her “Women’s Rights” finisher, which ultimately led to Flair beating Lynch for the title.

While talking with Sporting News this week, Evans spoke about being a very physical person, a trait she credits the U.S. Marine Corps for instilling it in her at a young, formative age.

“Oh, I’m a very physical person. Blame it on the military if you want, but I’m mean,” Evans said. “I’ve very mean and I was excited to get my hands on somebody. It didn’t matter who. I was just blessed that I got to walk out and show my face and remind the WWE Universe that Lacey Evans is here and ready for whatever the hell she wants.”

She added, “It was cool but, definitely, I was excited to get in the ring and start proving what I’m capable of.”

The Sassy Southern Belle Overcomes Adversity, Finds Herself In Marine Corps

Evans is capable of quite a bit after overcoming a difficult childhood and serving in the military for several years before making the transition to the pro wrestling world.

“There was depression, addiction and it was never enough,” Evans told Fritz about the environment she grew up in. “My father, unfortunately, lost his battle just two months before my WWE tryout. The Marine Corps saved me as far as getting my mind clear and being able to get myself in a place with better influences and role models in my life because I didn’t have that growing up.”

The WWE Superstar explained how joining the U.S. Marine Corps definitely changed her life for the better.

“If I didn’t join the Marine Corps, there’s no telling what would have happened to me, my family,” Evans said. “Me as a mother, me as a wife, but it’s definitely one of the best decisions I ever did make because growing up without a positive role model, you’ve got to find them somewhere and I found that in the United States Marine Corps. I found that in the leadership I had while in active duty and I couldn’t be more blessed to have that in my life because it definitely made me the woman that I am today.”

Lacey Evans Goes From Black & Gold To Red, Ready To Prove Herself

The woman Lacey Evans is today is one of the top contenders in the current women’s landscape on the WWE main roster. Not only did her transition from the black-and-gold brand in NXT to the red brand in WWE come with more career opportunities, it also helped improve her personal life at home.

“It’s been very good,” Evans said when asked how the transition from NXT to WWE went for her. “When you go from NXT to RAW, where I’m at now, you get to actually move back home from Orlando. That’s the best thing that I like is the fact that I actually go back home because we’re on the road so much. But I worked prior to WWE and I worked really hard to establish a home that had to go on the back burner in order for me to focus and hone in my skills as being a sports entertainer. I just get to be home a little more, my home in South Carolina and I get to raise my baby in the town that she’s from.”

As far as the business side of things, Evans admitted the transition came with bigger opportunities. This, according to Evans, is exactly what she wants. All she has ever wanted is a chance to prove herself, and now, she feels she is in a position to do exactly that.

“The spotlight goes from big to bigger and you’re really put out there and out of your element and expected to show what you’re capable of,” said Evans. “It’s motivating. It lights a fire under you to push yourself more. Show up and prove to them in WWE that you can do whatever they need you to do.”

After spending years proving herself in the U.S. military and again in NXT, Evans is ready now more than ever to prove herself to the WWE Universe.

Lacey Evans appears on WWE RAW every Monday night, 8ET/5PT, on the USA Network. Follow her on Twitter @LaceyEvansWWE, or check out any news or rumors related to Lacey Evans here at SEScoops.com.

What do you think Lacey Evans is capable of on the RAW brand? Do you think WWE is promoting her with the right character? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted June 3rd, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

ROH Fan Details Alleged Backstage Incident With Bully Ray, ROH Issues Statement

It looks like a Ring Of Honor fan found out first-hand that when it comes to Bully Ray and his woman — you do not mess around.

Twitter user Osh Kosh Big Josh (@xIAMHOLLYWOODx) posted a long statement on his feed on Monday, sharing a story about a wild alleged incident he had with the WWE Hall Of Famer backstage at the ROH: State of the Art show in Portland, Oregon on Sunday evening.

The fan claims that after he talked trash to some of the women talent during the opening dark match, he and Velvet Sky ended up getting into a heated exchange.

This is where things reportedly got intense.

According to the fan, after the verbal exchange concluded, he was approached by security. The security led the fan to a room backstage at Portland State University’s Viking Pavilion, the site of Sunday’s “State of the Art” event.

Bully Ray Allegedly Confronts ROH Fan Backstage

Big Josh then claims that Bully Ray entered the room, noting he was still in his ring gear and that he was clearly visibly angry. He wrote that Bully Ray got in his face and proceeded to lecture him like a mischevious child being scolded by their parents.

“Hey, I heard there was incident tonight with you and some of the girls,” Bully Ray said to Big Josh, according to a multi-tweet transcription of the alleged behind-the-scenes incident. Big Josh says his response was, “Uh … yeah? I guess.”

“So here’s the deal,” Bully Ray continued. “You’re done talking down to them. You need to treat them with respect. Don’t be saying anything you wouldn’t say to your mom, you got it?!” Big Josh claims he responded by saying, “Sure, yes sir. Yeah, I understand,” to which Bully Ray concluded, “End of [conversation]. Go be a fan.”

“Sure… yes sir. Yeah, I understand,” to which Ray concluded, “End of convo. Go be a fan.”

ROH G.M. Issues Statement On Alleged Incident

After the fan’s description of the alleged incident gained some traction online, ROH General Manager Greg Gilleland issued the following statement to the wrestling media:

“ROH has always taken fan-first approach, with fan experience being at the forefront of all of our live events. We consider this to be very serious and will be conducting an internal review over the next 48 hours to determine the appropriate actions.”

We will keep you posted here at SEScoops.com as updates to this story become available. For additional news and rumors coverage, follow the official SEScoops Twitter page @SEScoops.

What do YOU think of the alleged incident between ROH fan “Osh Kosh Big Josh” and Bully Ray at Sunday night’s ROH show in Portland? Sound off in the Comments section below.

Posted June 3rd, 2019 in ROH, News. Tagged: .

Batista Claims He “Lost Everything & Went Broke” After Leaving WWE In 2010 (Video)

Although he is swimming in cash these days, former WWE Superstar and actor Dave Bautista (Batista) revealed during his appearance at the Denver Pop Culture Con event this weekend that he went broke after leaving WWE several years ago.

According to the Hollywood big-shot, he “went broke and lost everything” after parting ways with the pro wrestling juggernaut to pursue his acting aspirations in 2010.

“I was with WWE at the time and I went and did a film,” Batista recalled during his ‘Spotlight Panel’ at the event in Colorado. “I had zero interest in acting, all I wanted to do was wrestle. I loved wrestling, I was obsessed with wrestling, and I went and did a film as a favor for a friend and I realized I was horrible.”

Batista continued, “I was a horrendous actor. I was so mortified that I wanted to prove I could be better, and the company [WWE], they wouldn’t let me do anything outside of the company.”

It was at this point that Batista parted ways with WWE and began pursuing his acting dreams full-time.

He claimed he “starved for three years” until eventually landing the role that would change his career when he played “Drax the Destroyer” in Marvel’s blockbuster phenomenon, Guardians of the Galaxy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jPb6Y8Vn44

“I starved for three years,” Batista claimed. “I went broke. I lost everything. I couldn’t get a job and I said that I will never go back to wrestling until I prove what I set out to prove, and that was that I can make it as an actor. Then I got the role on Guardians [of the Galaxy].”

That is when everything changed for “The Animal.”

Batista Succeeds In Hollywood, Makes WWE Comeback

It was at this point, when he was financially back on his feet and feeling content with his achievements in the acting world, that he decided to reach out to the WWE Chairman about making a potential return to the pro wrestling world.

“When I got the role, I finished the film and the first call I made after I wrapped was to Vince McMahon,” said Batista. “I said, ‘Hey man, I’d really like to come back and wrestle for a little bit.'”

His next stint in WWE wouldn’t last too long, however, as he went on to secure a spot in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, reprising his role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. He also landed roles in such films as The Man with the Iron Fists, Riddick, the James Bond film, Spectre, Blade Runner 2049, Avengers: Infinity War, Hotel Artemis and Avengers: Endgame, just to name a few.

Things are definitely going well for Dave Bautista these days.

(H/T to JK Schmidt and ComicBook.com for transcribing the above Dave Bautista quotes from the Denver Pop Culture Con.)

Posted June 2nd, 2019 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

Brian Cage vs. Michael Elgin World Title Match Announced For Slammiversary XVII

The World Championship match for Slammiversary XVII has been made official.

Impact Wrestling announced on this week’s episode on Pursuit / Twitch that Brian Cage will be defending his World Title against Michael Elgin at the July pay-per-view.

Cage, who was hospitalized after suffering a legitimate back injury at the Rebellion PPV back in April, vowed to be at the Slammiversary XVII PPV and announced that he will be defending his title against Elgin at the show.

As noted, Impact Wrestling will be introducing a new Titanium Package for tickets to the event. A press release for the show stated that they will “debut a new, expanded top-tiered ticket and fan experience program” at Slammiversary XVII called Titanium, which replaces the VIP Program. Titanium tickets will be priced at $200 and will include front-row seats, autographs, special photo opportunities and more.

Tickets for the Titanium Package at Slammiversary XVII go on sale May 17th, starting at 10am Eastern Time, and will be available at ImpactWrestling.com. All other tickets will go on sale on Monday, May 20, starting at 10 a.m. ET at ImpactWrestling.com. Front-row tickets for the show will be $100; premium floor seating will be $60 and general admission tickets will be on sale for $25.

The Impact Wrestling Slammiversary XVII three-hour event begins on Sunday, July 7th at 8pm Eastern Time and emanates from Gilly’s Dallas in Dallas, Texas. The show will be available on all major PPV distributors, including DISH, DirecTV, iN Demand, Vubiquity, Rogers, Bell, Shaw, Sasktel. Also, it will be streamed live globally on IMPACT Plus and the FITE.tv app.

What do YOU think about the announcement of Brian Cage vs. Michael Elgin for the World Title at Slammiversary XVII? Sound off in the Comments section below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5nVS8-EoWo

Posted June 1st, 2019 in TNA, News.

NXT TakeOver: XXV Predictions

The milestone twenty-fifth event under the NXT TakeOver chronology takes place this Saturday, as WWE presents NXT TakeOver: XXV from the Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The show will air live on the WWE Network featuring a five-match card, with four world championships up for grabs.

Topping the card will be two world championship matches. The NXT Championship will be on the line when Johnny Gargano defends against Adam Cole in a rematch. In the co-main event, Shayna Baszler defends the NXT Women’s Championship against Io Shirai.

Saturday’s show also features a four-team ladder match for the vacant NXT Tag-Team Championships. The match includes Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish of The Undisputed ERA vs. The Forgotten Sons (Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler) vs. The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) vs. Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch.

Also on the card is Matt Riddle vs. Roderick Strong, as well as a NXT North American Championship battle with current title-holder Velveteen Dream defending against Tyler Breeze.

NXT TakeOver: XXV kicks off live on the WWE Network on Saturday evening at 7 ET / 4 PT. There will be a 30-minute pre-show featuring a panel of Charly Caruso, Sam Roberts and Pat McAfee that will stream live from 6:30 ET / 3:30 PT on the WWE Network, as well as WWE.com, the WWE App, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.

SEScoops.com writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for NXT TakeOver: XXV.

Matt Riddle vs. Roderick Strong

Ian Carey: Riddle is coming off a loss to Velveteen Dream last Takeover, it feels as though he could use a win here as a result. He seems like someone they want to build towards the NXT title. I’m expecting Riddle to win here and move closer to the title while Roderick Strong loses, somehow blames his Undisputed Era teammates, and moves closer to a babyface turn and rivalry with Adam Cole.
(Prediction: Matt Riddle)

Andrew Ravens: An easy pick here as Riddle has been protected well in NXT and it’s only a matter of time that he becomes NXT Champion. There’s no reason for him to lose this contest and Strong can put on an excellent performance that doesn’t have him lose any steam. (Prediction: Matt Riddle)

Jeff Moss: This should be a fun match for a laundry list of reasons. First because it’s Matt Riddle. Even his 10 second squash matches have been super fun, and he’s taken the “Whats with all the hostility?” RVD stoner-bro character and made it even better and more relevant for 2019. Second, if the Undisputed Era has the night I hope they do, Strong being the only one in the group to lose would further fuel the budding animosity between him and the rest of his stablemates. Third: Pink flip flops. (Prediction: Matt Riddle)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Matt Riddle

Velveteen Dream (C) vs. Tyler Breeze (NXT North American Title)

Ian: As fantastic as it is to see Tyler Breeze back on a show where he can make an impact, he’s not walking away from Takeover with the North American title. Dream didn’t beat Matt Riddle last Takeover just to lose to Tyler Breeze on this show. Expect Breeze to put on a great match, get cheered, but then ultimately lose to the Dream.
(Prediction: Velveteen Dream)

Andrew: The most predictable match on the card as there is no way that Breeze wins the title here nor should he. Dream has been protected well in NXT and it’s only a matter of time that he becomes NXT Champion. Breeze has been a comedy figure on the main roster and hasn’t been back in NXT for long. (Prediction: Velveteen Dream)

Jeff: This is actually a tough one. It is so nice to see Tyler Breeze doing, well, anything again, that I almost want him to win that North American Title. It’d be a great chapter in his story to come back to NXT and finally grab some of the championship gold that eluded him when he was with the yellow brand. However, Velveteen Dream is precious, precious cargo. Even when he’s not firing on all cylinders he’s head and shoulders above most, and as they love to point out, he’s just getting his career started. If Breeze is sticking around for a while, it would be super fun to see them battle over the North American belt for a few months, which makes me think Dream retains here and perhaps sets up future bouts between the two gorgeous, gorgeous men. (Prediction: Velveteen Dream)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Velveteen Dream

The Undisputed ERA vs. The Forgotten Sons vs. The Street Profits vs. Oney Lorcan & Danny Burch (NXT Tag Title Ladder Match)

Ian: Kyle O’Reilly should be playing guitar on an NXT tag title belt again following this match. This seems like a match the Undisputed Era will win via the numbers advantage but it could go several ways. At some point, I think the Street Profits are going to be put in a program against the tag champs and probably win the titles but I don’t think they are winning them here.
(Prediction: The Undisputed ERA)

Andrew: It will be interesting to see which team comes out on top with the gold as any of these teams could serve as the champions. I think WWE goes in the safe direction by having O’Reilly and Fish win the titles because they’ve already proven themselves as champions. This could turn out to be the best match on the card due to the high spots these teams will do. (Prediction: The Undisputed ERA)

Jeff: While part of me wishes that this could just be a straight up match between Street Profits and Undisputed Era, I can also see this one being a standout banger of the night. There’s no reason for all of these teams not to give it 110% and get to that “Wrestlemania TLC Match” level where all hell breaks loose. I’ve never seen Lorcan and Burch (who really need a team name) in a ladder match, so I’m excited to see what they can pull off here. The logical part of my brain wants Undisputed Era to take the titles to cement the group as the top of the top in NXT, but my heart wants the Street Profits to get those straps. Much like the New Day, those guys were sitting in the back seat and handed a gimmick that could have been just awful, but they’ve made it super fun and had some great matches along the way (which I never thought I’d say about a team with Angelo Dawkins). All that said, they could be just as great feuding with the Undisputed Era as they would be as champions. Also, the Forgotten Sons will be in this match. (Prediction: The Undisputed ERA)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Undisputed ERA

Shayna Baszler (C) vs. Io Shiria (NXT Women’s Title)

Ian: Baszler has already dropped and regained the title once in her last reign, so I imagine if she loses it again, it means a main roster debut isn’t far off. I think ultimately, Baszler isn’t leaving NXT until at least after SummerSlam and NXT Toronto. I’m expecting her to pick up the win, albeit in possible controversial fashion, over Shirai. Expect Jessamyn Duke and Marina Shafir to play a big role in this match with Candice LeRae providing back up for Shirai.
(Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

Andrew: It seems like fans continue to enjoy what Baszler is doing on television but also waiting for the moment for her to drop the title and be called up to the main roster. Typically, WWE will call up stars after Mania and SummerSlam so I don’t see a reason for her to drop the title to Io, who has a ton of potential. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

Jeff: With Ronda Rousey out making babies, or farming, or whatever it is she does in her spare time, we can put aside the Horsewomen V Horsewomen stuff for a while and let Shayna Baszler continue helping to develop her pals and dominate the NXT Women’s Division. Shirai will give her a good match, one that’s different from the bouts Baszler had with Kairi Sane, and is a great opponent while some of the newer women in NXT are built up. Baszler continues as champion here, perhaps with some new challengers making themselves known. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, Shayna Baszler

Johnny Gargano (C) vs. Adam Cole (NXT World Title)

Ian: I think Cole walks away from Takeover the new NXT champion. With Gargano the thrill was in the chase, not the title reign. Gargano is not the guy Triple H wants the title on heading into NXT Toronto, so he’s either taking the belt off of him here or at an upcoming set of TV tapings. Either way, Gargano is down to his last few weeks with the title.
(Prediction: Adam Cole)

Andrew: Just like their first match, this should be one of the best matches on this stacked card. I’m interested in the fact that they ran this same match back with no gimmicks as it appears to be the blow-off contest. While I do think Gargano should and will retain the title here, I wouldn’t be shocked to see him lose as he is the underdog character. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)

Jeff: When a large Tomasso Ciampa-shaped hole appeared in my life, I never thought that it could be filled. I’ve always loved Johnny Gargano/Wrestling/Takeover/LeRae, but the fire in the feud between he and Ciampa is practically unmatched in today’s pro wrestling world. With all that said, I couldn’t be happier with what Adam Cole has brought to the table. He’s spent the last year making himself and Undisputed Era the best heel and group in WWE today, bar none. Based on their previous barn-burner of a match, I think a longterm program between Cole and Gargano has got nothing but dollar signs on it, and for it to work best, Cole should take the title here, clean. Really put Cole on the same level as all the top players and lets spend the summer with Gargano chasing him to get that title back. Johnny’s at his best when he’s working towards something and Cole can give him the rivalry he needs. (Prediction: Adam Cole)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, Adam Cole

What do the experts think is going to happen on Saturday? Check out the NXT TakeOver: XXV betting odds. What do you think of the above NXT TakeOver: XXV predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below. Make sure to join us here on Saturday for NXT TakeOver: XXV results coverage.

Posted May 30th, 2019 in News.

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