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Tony Schiavone Explains Absence from AEW Dynamite Amid Suspension Rumors

Tony Schiavone has addressed his recent absence from AEW Dynamite, which had fueled fan speculation about a potential suspension following a social media incident involving NJPW announcer Chris Charlton.

During the January 8 episode of Dynamite, Schiavone was notably missing from the commentary desk. Excalibur was joined by Matt Menard and Ian Riccaboni instead. This absence came after a contentious week in wrestling circles, as Charlton was reportedly suspended for calling Tony Khan a “money mark” and criticizing AEW’s booking of NJPW stars like Jay White, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay.

Schiavone defend TK on social media, posting a sharp response telling Charlton to “GFY” and suggesting he shower more often.

The post was quickly deleted, but the timing of Schiavone’s disappearance led to rumors that he had been disciplined for his remarks.

Why Has Tony Schiavone Been Off AEW TV?

Schiavone addressed the situation on his What Happened When podcast, explaining that his absence was due to a family matter. Adding his trademark humor, he playfully dismissed the rumors. Schiavone shared that his wife had undergone hip surgery and was discharged from the hospital the same day as Dynamite. In his characteristic joking style, he quipped about prioritizing work over family:

“As a matter of fact, she got out of the hospital on Wednesday, so I just let her walk home from the hospital instead of picking her up, and I went to TV and got suspended. But she made it home about six hours later with her walker on 285 in Atlanta.”

Tony Schiavone explains his absense from AEW

Schiavone’s clarification ends speculation about any disciplinary action, confirming that his absence was entirely unrelated to backstage drama. The veteran announcer continues to manage his personal commitments alongside his role at AEW.

“What Happened When” is a comedy-packed retro wrestling podcast hosted by Tony Schiavone and Conrad Thompson. Catch new episodes every Wednesday at 6 a.m. ET on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or the Cumulus Podcast Network.

Tom Pestock Faces Josh Barnett in GCW Debut at The People vs. GCW (1/19)

Tom Pestock, formerly known as Baron Corbin in WWE, is set to make his GCW debut against Josh “The Warmaster” Barnett in a Bloodsport rules match at The People vs. GCW on January 19, 2025, at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.

This match marks Pestock’s first appearance since leaving WWE in November 2024. Known for his impressive combat sports background, Pestock recently captured gold at the IBJJF Tampa International Jiu-Jitsu Tournament and holds accolades as a Golden Gloves boxing champion.

His opponent, Josh Barnett, is a seasoned combat sports veteran, boasting a resume that includes being a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and an accomplished catch wrestler.

In addition to Pestock vs. Barnett, The People vs. GCW features:

  • GCW World Title Match: Mance Warner (c) vs. Winner of Effy/Allie Katch
  • GCW Tag Team Title Match: Violence Is Forever vs. Gahbage Daddies
  • El Hijo del Vikingo vs. Sidney Akeem
IMG 1904

Corey Graves NXT Appearance Canceled: “Not a Work”

WWE broadcaster Corey Graves will no longer appear on tonight’s episode of NXT to address recent frustrations, as he had announced.

Graves took to social media last night, expressing anger over being told he wasn’t “famous enough” to join the new Raw and SmackDown broadcast teams. Following the post, he claimed he would clear the air during tonight’s NXT.

However, PWInsider reports that Graves was seen boarding a flight at Orlando Airport on Tuesday afternoon and will not be present for the broadcast. Sources indicate that Graves felt genuinely insulted by being relegated to the NXT commentary team as the ‘third wheel’ alongside Vic Joseph and Booker T.

Adding legitimacy to the situation, Graves’ brother, Sam Adonis, confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the matter is “not a work,” suggesting it’s not part of a WWE storyline.

https://twitter.com/realsamadonis/status/1879220916523336173?s=46

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

There’s growing speculation that Corey Graves, the former NXT Tag Team Champion turned WWE commentator, may be preparing to step back into the ring. Graves, who was forced to retire from wrestling in 2014 due to a series of concussions, hinted at having “a lot to say” on tonight’s episode of WWE NXT, sparking excitement among fans about his potential future in professional wrestling.

From the Ring to the Announce Table

Graves retired in December 2014 following NXT TakeOver: R Evolution, marking the end of a promising in-ring career cut short by medical concerns. Despite the setback, he transitioned seamlessly into commentary, quickly becoming one of WWE’s most prominent voices. Over the years, Graves has lent his sharp wit and insight to Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and countless premium live events, cementing his place as a cornerstone of WWE broadcasting.

Corey Graves and Michael Cole on commentary
WWE tapped Corey Graves and Michael Cole when WWE SmackDown moved to FOX

Frustration in His Current Role

On Monday night, Graves expressed frustration on social media, revealing his disappointment over being sidelined from WWE’s main commentary teams on Raw and SmackDown. In a pointed message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Graves wrote:

“Imagine chasing your dream. Then being TOLD (not deciding) that you’re no longer physically able to pursue your dream. Then you dedicate your life to something ‘dream adjacent’ and being pretty awesome at it. And then, when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, being told you’re not famous enough for your own job.”

Corey Graves

His candid remarks have fueled speculation about a possible return to active competition, especially given that he received medical clearance to wrestle again in 2022.

A Precedent for Comebacks

Bryan Danielson
Bryan Danielson returned to wrestling after several years on the sidelines due to concussions

Graves wouldn’t be the first WWE superstar to defy the odds and return to the ring after a career-ending injury. Bryan Danielson, Edge, and Christian Cage—each sidelined by serious injuries, including concussion-related issues—successfully made their way back to competition after years away, thanks to advancements in medical science. With his prior clearance and years of experience, Graves could follow in their footsteps.

What to Expect Tonight

Graves has previously expressed interest in dream matchups with some of WWE’s biggest names, including Seth Rollins and CM Punk. Both were pivotal figures in his early career, and potential showdowns with either would make for compelling storytelling and fanfare.

As fans eagerly await WWE NXT, many are speculating that Graves will shed light on his plans. Whether it’s a return to in-ring competition, a shakeup in his current role, or simply a response to recent frustrations, tonight’s episode promises to be must-see television.

Will Corey Graves make a comeback after nearly a decade away from active competition? Tune in to WWE NXT to find out what’s next for the former champion turned commentator.

WWE 2K25 Roster: Confirmed Superstars, DLC, and Screenshots

WWE 2K25, the upcoming installment in the popular wrestling video game series, is set to feature an extensive roster of current WWE superstars and legends. While the full roster has not yet been officially revealed, several key wrestlers have been confirmed for the game.

This article will be updated when additional information is available, expected January 28.

Confirmed Roster

The following characters have been officially announced for WWE 2K25:

Active Superstars

  • Bayley
  • CM Punk
  • Cody Rhodes
  • Damian Priest
  • Liv Morgan
  • Roman Reigns

Managers

  • Paul Heyman (Manager)

First WWE 2K25 Screenshots

DLC Plans

While specific DLC plans have not been announced, WWE 2K25 is likely to follow the pattern of previous installments by offering additional wrestlers and legends as downloadable content throughout the year.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for our ongoing coverage of WWE 2K25 in the lead-up to the game’s official releases.

Hulk Hogan Teases Role in Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration

Controversial professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan is in a celebratory mood one week after getting booed out of the Intuit Dome at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere.

Hogan appeared on Jesse Watters Primetime on FOX News last night to share his thoughts on the state of the country and his excitement for Donald Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Hogan pounded a beer and declared, “We’re already celebrating the inauguration, even before it happens because we know we’re getting our country back!”

According to Hogan, it now feels like a “dark cloud” has been lifted since Trump’s re-election. He says the “whiners and criers” brought the United States to the brink of destruction, but things will get back on track, jack, next week when Trump is inaugurated. When pressed about his plans for the event, Hogan replied:

“Well, there’s a little birdie that says I might just be there pulling a few shenanigans, brother.”

“I’ve got my ‘Trump Pump’ back on and I’m gonna be ridin’ dirty all the way to that inauguration. I cannot wait for him to be sworn in, brother!

It’s a new day, it’s a new country, and we’re gonna make America great again because we’ve got a real American President, brother!”

Hulk Hogan teases attending Donald Trump’s Second United States Presidential Inauguration

The 60th Presidential Inauguration is set to take place on Monday, January 20th, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Mark Henry Claims Hulk Hogan’s Made No Effort to Address Racist Comments

Catch Hulk Hogan’s appearance on Jesse Watters Live (January 13, 2025):

New Era Begins Tonight on WWE NXT (1/14)

WWE NXT returns tonight from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, broadcasting live at 8 PM ET on the CW Network.

This show serves as the fallout from last week’s New Year’s Evil premium live event. Fans can expect fallout, including reactions from new NXT Women’s Champion Giulia and new NXT Champion Oba Femi. We’ll also see the NXT tag titles on the line and two #1 contender’s matches.

WWE NXT Preview (January 14, 2025)

Confirmed matches and segments for tonight’s WWE NXT include:

  • NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Nathan Frazer and Axiom, collectively known as Fraxiom, will defend their NXT Tag Team Championship against the formidable duo of Bronco Nima and Lucien Price from OTM (Out The Mud). OTM earned this opportunity by winning a Christmas Chaos Fatal Four Way match on December 24th
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship #1 Contender’s Match: The Unholy Union (Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn) will face off against Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend to determine the next challengers for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship. The winners of this match will earn a shot at the current champions, Bianca Belair and Naomi.
  • NXT Women’s North American Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Shotzi will battle Stephanie Vaquer for a chance to challenge Fallon Henley for the NXT Women’s North American Championship. This match was set up after some controversy, with Shotzi arguing she deserved a title shot after pinning Henley in a recent six-woman tag team match.
  • Corey Graves Complains: After getting bounced from main roster commentary in favor of his more-famous co-workers, Graves says he’s headed to NXT with a lot to say.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest NXT news and catch up on everything that went down at New Year’s Evil 2025:

Lyra Valkyria Shares Her Vision for the WWE Women’s IC Title

On the January 13th edition of WWE Raw, Lyra Valkyria achieved a milestone that will forever be etched in wrestling history. By defeating Dakota Kai in the finals of a grueling tournament, Valkyria became the inaugural WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion.

WWE caught up with the winner backstage after her match. “The thrill of victory” was on full display here, as she processed the magnitude of the moment in real-time.

“I have dreamed about making a moment like this, carving out my own little piece of history,” she told Cathy Kelley. “There’s only ever one first-ever, and my name is now in the history books. I’m the Women’s Intercontinental Champion.”

Lyra Valkyria
Lyra Valkyria, WWE’s inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Championship

Her Goals as Champion

The new prize ushers in a new era for the increasingly-competitive women’s division. Valkyria shared her vision for what the belt represents.

“Being the Intercontinental Champion has always meant that you are the best when it comes to what happens between those ropes. That’s what I want this championship to mean, being the absolute best when it comes to the ring. That means that I am shaping what that looks like, what it looks like for the women’s division as the Women’s Intercontinental Champion.”

Valkyria understands that she now has a target on her back, and is ready to embrace the challenges that come with the throne.

“To be the champion at a time when, and I say this from the bottom of my heart, the women’s division right now is the best that it has ever been, ever, so I’m prepared for any challenger, anytime. It’s Rumble season, it’s ’Mania season. People are as hungry as they’ve ever been. I’m ready for anything. I’m ready to start my reign as the Women’s Intercontinental Champion.”

All Active Championships in WWE (Updated List)

WWE Raw Results: Lyra Valkyria Makes History, Penta Debuts

Here’s are results from the January 13, 2025 episode of WWE Raw from the SAP Center in San Jose, California:

  • CM Punk opened the show with a promo to discuss John Cena’s return, and his goal to win the Royal Rumble and become a World Champion one more time. Punk was interrupted by Seth Rollins and later Drew McIntyre. Al three declared their entry into the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble.
  • Penta made his WWE debut, defeating Chad Gable in an impressive match. Penta cut a promo after the match and immediately connected with the audience.
  • Sheamus defeated Ludwig Kaiser in a hard-hitting contest. Afterwards, Sheamus had a stare down with Bron Brakker, who was sitting at ringside.
  • Lyra Valkyria became the inaugural WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion by defeating Dakota Kai.
  • In the main event, Damian Priest defeated Finn Balor in a Street Fight.

WWE Raw heads to Dallas, TX next week, where Seth Rollins will face Drew McIntyre in the main event and the New Day returns to action.

Penta Arrives: Meet WWE’s New Dark Luchador

The wrestling world is abuzz as Penta, one of the most enigmatic and celebrated luchadores, made his WWE debut tonight on Monday Night Raw (January 13, 2025).

Over the past few weeks, WWE has aired cryptic vignettes teasing the arrival of a mysterious figure, culminating in last week’s reveal: Penta is coming.

Known for his iconic catchphrase, “Cero Miedo!” (Zero Fear), Penta embodies a fearless approach both in and out of the ring. This rallying cry has become a mantra for fans worldwide, symbolizing his unshakable confidence and indomitable spirit.

Who is Penta?

Penta is a global wrestling sensation whose name carries weight in the industry. Throughout his storied career, he’s competed under various names—such as Penta El Zero Miedo, Penta El Zero M, Penta Oscuro, Pentagon Dark, Pentagon Jr., and Dark Dragon—each reflecting a unique chapter in his evolution as a performer.

Where He’s Wrestled

Penta, an AEW original and one-half of the high-flying tag team The Lucha Bros alongside his brother Rey Fenix, has made a significant impact in the world of professional wrestling. He has left an indelible mark in various promotions, most notably in Lucha Underground, where he gained widespread recognition. Penta has also showcased his talents in TNA/Impact Wrestling and Major League Wrestling (MLW). Additionally, he has built a strong reputation across Mexico’s lucha libre circuits, cementing his status as a versatile and dynamic performer in both tag team and singles competition.

In-Ring Style

Penta’s ring style is a dynamic fusion of traditional lucha libre and hard-hitting modern wrestling. He is known for his aggressive and impactful moves, combining high-flying maneuvers with brutal strikes and innovative drivers. His signature “Cero Miedo” (Zero Fear) attitude is reflected in his fearless approach to high-risk moves. Pentagon’s arsenal includes a variety of kicks, including superkicks and shin kicks, as well as innovative variations of piledrivers and suplexes.

His finishing moves, such as the Fear Factor (Package Piledriver) and the Pentagon Driver (Pumphandle Driver), showcase his power and technical skill. While he doesn’t rely heavily on aerial moves, he does incorporate topes and hurricanranas into his matches when needed. Penta’s style is further characterized by his taunting and charismatic in-ring presence, which, combined with his brutal moveset, has earned him comparisons to wrestling legends and the nickname “Lucha Stone Cold”.

The Road to WWE

After a successful run in AEW, Penta decided it was time to test himself in WWE, seeking to thrive on the global stage that WWE offers. While Rey Fenix remains in AEW, rumors suggest he may follow Penta to WWE when his extended contract expires.

Pentagon’s arrival is particularly significant as WWE expands its global reach. With Monday Night Raw now airing live on Netflix worldwide, his debut gives him a platform to connect with an even broader audience. His popularity spans continents. His lucha libre roots in Mexico make him a hero to Latin American wrestling fans, while his runs in the U.S., Japan, and beyond have earned him a loyal, international fan base.

His signing bolsters WWE’s presence in key global markets, especially those with a strong wrestling tradition. Pentagon Jr.’s arrival is a major moment for WWE, signaling their commitment to diversifying the roster and appealing to fans worldwide. With his reputation as one of the best in the business and his fearless “Cero Miedo” attitude, Penta is poised to leave his mark in WWE.

Dakota Kai Ready for Championship Glory Tonight on RAW

Dakota Kai is gearing up for one of the biggest matches of her career as she prepares to face Lyra Valkyria in the finals of the tournament to crown the inaugural WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion.

The highly anticipated bout is set to take place tonight on the January 13 episode of WWE RAW. Ahead of the historic contest, Kai took to X to reflect on her journey. She described her seven-and-a-half-year tenure in WWE and her lifelong dream of becoming a champion.

“I’ve been about WWE for 7 and a half years. This has been my dream for as long as I can remember, way back when I was practicing DDTs on my lil bro in the lounge (don’t try this at home, lol).

With each opportunity to win a singles championship over the years, I’ve given my all every time… even if I fell short, every time. I don’t want to say ‘failure isn’t an option’ because failure has been a part of my story and I’ve learned from it. I hope to make you all proud.”

Women's Intercontinental Championship
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship

In a separate recent interview with The Ringer Wrestling Show, Kai opened up about her excitement for the championship match. Seven years into her WWE run, the “It feels like it’s been a long time coming,” she said.

“I’ve been in the company for about seven years now, and while I’ve had opportunities, it’s almost been like close but no cigar. So for me, next week is a big opportunity to show what I can do… and hopefully finish off that fairytale ending.”

Both Kai and Valkyria have fought their way through the tournament, making this clash one to watch. Fans will be tuning in to see whether Kai can finally achieve her dream or if Valkyria will make her own mark in history as the first-ever WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion.

Penta Merchandise Launches Ahead of WWE Raw Debut

Pentagon Jr., one of the most electrifying wrestlers in the industry, has launched a brand-new merchandise line on WWE Shop just hours ahead of his highly anticipated television debut on WWE Raw.

Fans can showcase their “Cero Miedo” spirit with exclusive WWE-licensed gear, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and a replica mask inspired by Pentagon Jr.’s iconic look. A product description for one of the shirts reads:

“Cero Miedo! For Penta, it’s not just a phrase. He has no fear of anyone or anything and is driven to be as aggressive as possible to reach his goals. Show that you also live life without fear by grabbing this Penta Logo T-Shirt. The mysterious logo printed across the chest leaves no doubt you’re eager to see the WWE’s newest dark luchador dive upon and dominate those daring to stand in his path.”

It may not seem like much, but the merchandise listings provide a fair amount of new information regarding how he’ll be presented in WWE:

  • His ring name will be Penta
  • He’ll continue using his “Cero Miedo!” catchphrase
  • Penta referred to as WWE’s “newest dark luchador”
  • What his mask will look like
penta wwe mask

Don’t miss Pentagon Jr.’s official WWE debut tonight on Raw, streaming live on Netflix.

Penta Arrives in WWE: What to Know Ahead of His Raw Debut

Tyson Fury Retires from Boxing, Next Stop WWE?


Tyson Fury, the renowned heavyweight boxer famously known as “The Gypsy King,” has officially announced his retirement from professional boxing. In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Fury delivered a concise but emotional farewell message to his fans:

“I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast. I’ve loved every single minute of it. I’m going to end with this – Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”

This announcement marks another milestone in a career defined by extraordinary highs and unexpected twists. Fury had previously retired in 2022 following a decisive victory over Dillian Whyte but later returned to the ring to defeat Derek Chisora later that year.

At 36, Fury leaves the sport following two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk. If this retirement is final, Fury concludes his illustrious career with a record of 34 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. Among his many accomplishments are multiple heavyweight championships, including the WBC heavyweight title and The Ring magazine’s heavyweight title.

Tyson Fury’s WWE Journey

Beyond his boxing achievements, Tyson Fury has made a significant impact in professional wrestling through his collaborations with WWE. He debuted with the promotion in October 2019 on an episode of SmackDown, where he confronted Braun Strowman. This encounter culminated in a high-profile match at the Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia later that month, which Fury won. Since then, his WWE appearances have been sporadic yet memorable.

In 2022, Fury made a surprise appearance at the Clash at the Castle event and went toe-to-toe with none other than Roman Reigns.

Despite ongoing speculation about potential appearances at major WWE events like the Royal Rumble or WrestleMania, logistical challenges—such as legal issues impacting his ability to travel to the United States—have reportedly complicated these plans.

Nonetheless, Fury has expressed strong enthusiasm for future collaborations with WWE, citing his lifelong passion for professional wrestling. As he steps away from boxing, fans are eager to see whether Fury might dedicate more time to WWE, potentially trading his boxing gloves for wrestling boots.

Tyson Fury Addresses WWE Future After Clash at the Castle

Drew McIntyre Eager to Promo Battle John Cena

Drew McIntyre is determined to get the opportunity to work with John Cena.

Cena kicked off his farewell tour at the WWE RAW on Netflix premiere. There, he declared for the Royal Rumble match, as he made it clear that he wants to win the world title one last time.

Speaking on the Babyfaces Podcast, McIntyre was asked to comment on John Cena in the Royal Rumble match and targeting the world title. He wished Cena luck, before cutting right to the trash talk.

“All I care about is, I want time on that microphone with him, and I want that one-on-one match, and I’m gonna make it happen one way or another,” McIntyre said.

“Let’s just hope he doesn’t end up in the ring with me in the Rumble because the last person who got in my way in the Rumble last year and was aiming to main event WrestleMania was CM Punk, and I tore his tricep off the bone, so I’ll maybe ask Cena pick the muscle, pick the bone because I’m tearing it or breaking it.”

End Zone Pedigree: Quinyon Mitchell’s Triple H Tribute Seals Eagles’ Wild Card Victory

In a pivotal moment during the Eagles’ wild card playoff game against the Packers, rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell clinched the victory with a game-winning interception. To celebrate, Mitchell paid homage to WWE legend Triple H by attempting to perform the iconic Pedigree move on his teammate, Cooper DeJean.

Triple H responded to the moment on social media, congratulating Mitchell and the Eagles on their big win. Since he “didn’t get all of it,” the WWE icon humorously commented on the botched move, noting that there’s a reason WWE advises fans not to try its moves at home.

Both Mitchell and DeJean have been instrumental in the Eagles’ success this season. The two rookie defensive backs quickly moved beyond their rookie status, emerging as key contributors to Philadelphia’s top-ranked pass defense.

Throughout the season, Mitchell and DeJean have developed a strong bond, characterized by friendly competition and mutual support. Their on-field synergy and off-field camaraderie have been evident, making this celebratory moment a fitting highlight of their standout rookie campaigns.

Wrestler Won’t Stop Playing Nintendo Switch During Match

Cody Rhodes Tours Dude Perfect’s New Headquarters

WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes recently made a surprise appearance in Dude Perfect’s latest YouTube video, which unveiled their new headquarters in Frisco, Texas. The video, titled “We Built The World’s Greatest Office,” showcases Dude Perfect’s impressive new 80,000-square-foot facility, complete with state-of-the-art video production capabilities.

In the video, Cody Rhodes is seen sitting in one of the Dude Perfect offices, explaining that it was their Cody who wanted “The American Nightmare” to be there. Rhodes fully embraced the fun atmosphere of Dude Perfect, shooting a Nerf gun and going down a huge slide.

What is Dude Perfect?

Dude Perfect is an American sports and comedy group consisting of five friends: Tyler Toney, Cory and Coby Cotton, Garrett Hilbert, and Cody Jones. Founded in 2009, they gained fame through their YouTube channel, which features trick shots, stunts, and comedic videos. With over 60 million subscribers and billions of views, Dude Perfect has become a global phenomenon.

The guys are known for their family-friendly content, including trick shots, stereotypes, and battles. The group has expanded beyond YouTube, creating a TV show, going on live tours, and breaking multiple Guinness World Records.

Features of the New Dude Perfect Headquarters

Here’s a rundown of what’s inside ‘DPHQ3’ and a video providing a lengthy tour of the state-of the-art facility.

  • A full video production facility spanning 20,000 square feet
  • Additional 60,000 square feet for business operations
  • State-of-the-art technology provided by Samsung
  • A Dude Perfect museum
  • A mini-golf course
  • Restaurants

Former WWE Star Melina Located and Safe

Former WWE star Melina Perez has been reported safe after concerns were raised about her whereabouts amid the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.

A Matter of Pride Wrestling, which had initially expressed fears over the former pro wrestler’s safety, provided an update on social media, stating, “We’re relieved to share that Melina has made contact and is safe. We want to thank everyone for their concern, support, and outreach during this time. Your kindness and compassion means the world to us”.

The 45-year-old Los Angeles native had been unresponsive during the wildfire crisis, prompting worry from various wrestling organizations and fans.

WWE Giant Omos Declares Himself Wrestling’s ‘Super Mega-Weight’

Since the beginning of the new year, Omos has been making waves in Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan. Teaming up with Jack Morris, he secured the GHC Tag Team Titles, solidifying his presence in the promotion. Following the latest Pro Wrestling NOAH event, Omos delivered a bold promo, declaring himself “the super mega-weight.”

“My dominance continues. I said it in the video, I did dominate. Every match, I have done nothing but dominate. Don’t forget that the moniker is now the super mega-weight, and there’s nothing no one can do about it.”

– Omos

Omos in Japan

Omos has made a significant impact in Japan over the past month, marking his debut in Pro Wrestling NOAH at their New Year 2025 event on January 1. The 7’4″ giant teamed up with Jack Morris to challenge for the GHC Tag Team Championship, facing the reigning champions Naomichi Marufuji and Takashi Sugiura.

In a surprising turn of events, Omos and Morris emerged victorious, capturing the GHC Tag Team Titles in Omos’ first match with the promotion This victory marked Omos’ first championship win outside of WWE and his first title since losing the RAW Tag Team Championship in 2021.

His appearance in NOAH is part of WWE’s ongoing collaboration with the Japanese promotion. Omos is set to remain active in Japan for Pro Wrestling NOAH until at least January 19, 2025.

Scott Steiner’s Son Brock Rechsteiner Offered WWE NIL Contract

WWE Hall of Famer Scott Steiner has announced that his son, Brock Rechsteiner, has been offered a WWE NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) contract by Triple H. Speaking on Busted Open Radio on Saturday, Steiner revealed,

“Hunter called me the other day, maybe like three weeks ago, and offered my boy an NIL deal.”

Brock Rechsteiner currently plays football as a wide receiver for Jacksonville State University. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 225 pounds, he has demonstrated strong potential on the field, recording 13 receptions for 205 yards and two touchdowns during the 2024 season.

The offer from WWE aligns with Brock’s athletic background and the Steiner family’s celebrated wrestling legacy. His cousin, Bron Breakker, has already established himself as a prominent WWE Superstar.

bron breakker ic champion02

Breakker, the son of Rick Steiner, competes on the Raw brand and boasts an impressive résumé, including two reigns as NXT Champion with a combined 425 days. He’s currently in his second reign as WWE Intercontinental Champion, cementing his place as one of WWE’s rising stars.

Scott Steiner has previously hinted at his son’s interest in pursuing professional wrestling after his football career concludes. “Once football’s over, he’s going to become a great wrestler,” Steiner shared.

With the NIL contract offer from WWE, Brock Rechsteiner may soon follow in his family’s footsteps, taking the first steps toward a potential wrestling career.

Roman Reigns Declares for the 2025 Royal Rumble

Roman Reigns has officially declared his entry into the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match, with his sights set on a potential showdown with Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41.

During the January 10 episode of WWE SmackDown, Paul Heyman addressed the fallout from Roman Reigns’ victory over Solo Sikoa in a Tribal Combat Match on the premiere of WWE RAW on Netflix. In the match, Reigns reclaimed the Ula Fala, signaling the conclusion of his feud with Sikoa and his readiness to move forward.

Heyman opened the show by “acknowledging” Cody Rhodes, the reigning, defending, Undisputed WWE Champion. According to Heyman, Rhodes had earned Reigns’ respect, but Reigns was determined to regain his championship. Declaring for the Royal Rumble, Reigns made it clear that his ultimate goal was to challenge Rhodes for the title at WrestleMania 41 if victorious.

img 6945 1

Reigns joins a growing list of high-profile entrants in the Royal Rumble match, including CM Punk and John Cena.

A former Royal Rumble winner in 2015, Reigns last competed in the event in 2020. In the years since, he dominated as Universal Champion, defending his title throughout an historic reign.

Now, he looks to reclaim his place at the top of WWE by winning the Royal Rumble and earning another chance at championship gold.

WWE Royal Rumble 2025 Odds: Current early favorites

WWE Debuts New SmackDown Commentary Team

WWE has officially introduced a new commentary team for SmackDown, featuring Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett. The duo made their debut on Friday’s episode, marking a significant shift in the show’s presentation.

This change follows closely on the heels of Pat McAfee and Michael Cole assuming commentary duties for WWE Raw, which recently premiered on Netflix. These updates to the commentary teams reflect WWE’s broader strategy to refresh its programming across its flagship shows.

Tessitore, renowned for his extensive career in sports broadcasting, brings a seasoned perspective to the SmackDown announce table. Meanwhile, Barrett, a former WWE Superstar, has been steadily building his reputation as a commentator on various WWE programs in recent years.

WWE’s New Commentary Teams

Updated Overview of WWE Broadcasters:

Raw

  • Commentary team: Michael Cole and Pat McAfee
  • Ring announcer: Alicia Taylor
  • Backstage interviewers: Jackie Redmond and Cathy Kelley

SmackDown

  • Commentary team: Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett
  • Ring announcer: Lilian Garcia
  • Backstage interviewer: Byron Saxton

NXT

  • Commentateam: Vic Joseph and Booker T
  • Ring announcer: Mike Rome
  • Backstage interviewers: Kelly Kincaid, Sarah Schreiber, and Blake Howard

TNA Champion Nic Nemeth Signs New Contract

Nic Nemeth, formerly known as Dolph Ziggler in WWE, has re-signed with TNA Wrestling. He’s the reigning TNA World Champion, a title he captured in a six-way elimination match at TNA Slammiversary in July 2024.

Nemeth’s journey with TNA began earlier in 2024 when he initially agreed to a short-term deal of just 10 dates. However, impressed by the company’s vision and the locker room atmosphere, he continued to extend his commitment. His decision to re-sign demonstrates his faith in TNA’s direction and potential for growth.

TNA’s Business Growth

Increased Viewership: The company has been seeing a steady increase in audience numbers, with Nemeth noting that they’re attracting “1% bigger audience every single week”.

Strategic Partnerships: TNA has formed partnerships with major media companies, including Warner Bros. Discovery’s Eurosport India, expanding its reach in the Asian subcontinent.

Streaming Service Launch: The company launched TNA+, a new streaming service, in partnership with Endeavor Streaming, offering fans enhanced access to TNA content.

International Expansion: TNA has partnered with StarTimes to bring exclusive content to over 30 countries in Africa, further extending its global reach.

Live Event Success: TNA has been selling out shows regularly, indicating growing fan interest and engagement.

Nemeth’s re-signing is likely both a result of and a contributor to this positive momentum. His continued presence adds star power and credibility to TNA’s product during this crucial growth period. His decision to stay with aligns with TNA’s goal of expanding into bigger venues and increasing its market share in the professional wrestling landscape.

Ronda Rousey Welcomes Second Daughter with Travis Browne

Ronda Rousey and her husband, Travis Browne, have welcomed their second daughter together. Born on Thursday, January 9, the baby girl has been named Liko’ula Pa’uomahinakaipiha Browne.

The couple previously celebrated the arrival of their first daughter, La’akea Makalapuaokalanip, in September 2021. Browne also has two sons from a previous marriage, making this a growing family of six.

Ronda Rousey in WWE

Rousey, a former WWE and UFC star, has had a storied career in professional wrestling. She made her WWE debut at the 2018 Royal Rumble, famously pointing at the WrestleMania sign to declare her arrival.

Her first match came at WrestleMania 34, where she and Kurt Angle defeated Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in a mixed tag team bout that received widespread acclaim.

During her WWE career, Rousey achieved significant milestones. She captured the Raw Women’s Championship at SummerSlam 2018 and later added two SmackDown Women’s Championship reigns to her resume. Teaming with Shayna Baszler, Rousey also became one-half of the Women’s Tag Team Champions, further cementing her legacy in the wrestling world.

Rousey’s most recent WWE appearance was at SummerSlam 2023, where she faced Shayna Baszler in an MMA Rules match. The bout received mixed reactions, with Rousey later reflecting on it as a bold statement to cap off her WWE tenure.

As much as she enjoyed aspects of her time as a WWE Superstar, Rousey said it was unsustainable for her to continue wrestling when she was more focused on motherhood

Big congratulations to Ronda Rousey, Travis Browne and their growing family.

WWE Raw Sets Viewership Records with Netflix Debut

WWE’s Monday Night RAW debuted on Netflix to a historic reception, garnering 4.9 million Live+1 global views. This milestone marks a strong start for the program under WWE’s partnership with TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO).

In the U.S., the premiere averaged 2.6 million households (Live+SD), more than doubling its 2024 average of 1.2 million households and achieving the highest viewership for a RAW episode in five years. The debut also saw significant growth in the Adults 18-49 demographic, with audience numbers more than doubling compared to the previous year.

The event, held at the sold-out Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, set records as the highest-grossing WWE arena event of all time. It also achieved the highest merchandise sales for a non-Premium Live Event in WWE history.

Netflix’s partnership with WWE has positioned RAW for continued global success, with this debut signaling a promising future for the Monday night staple.

Here’s the official press release:

WWE ‘RAW’ WRESTLES UP 4.9M GLOBAL VIEWS FOR NETFLIX DEBUT

Netflix (NYSE: NFLX) and WWE®, part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) today announced that the debut episode of RAW on Netflix got off to a strong start, with the Monday night program capturing 4.9M Live+1 views* globally.**

The inaugural event on Netflix averaged 2.6 million households (Live+SD) in the US, according to VideoAmp, which is 116% higher than RAW’s average 2024 US audience of 1.2 million households, and higher than any other Monday Night RAW broadcast in the past five years. The event also more than doubled the A18-49 audience vs. last year.

On X, as soon as the event started, #WWERaw was the #1 trending topic in the US, Brazil, Australia, and the UK.

  • #WWERaw trended #1 for 14 hours straight in the UK and occupied six of the top 7 trending topics in the US.
  • #RAWonNetflix and #WWEonNetflix also trended in Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Spain, and the US.

 

The debut of RAW on Netflix, which took place at a sold-out Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, set a company record as the highest-grossing WWE arena event of all time. Additionally, the event set a merchandise sales record, becoming the highest-grossing non-Premium Live Event of all time.

The event saw Rhea Ripley reclaim the Women’s World Championship with a win over Liv Morgan, Roman Reigns topple Solo Sikoa in a tribal combat match, CM Punk best Seth “Freakin” Rollins in a highly anticipated grudge match and Jey Uso with a win over Drew McIntyre. Monday’s event also featured appearances from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, The Undertaker, Logan Paul, Travis Scott and John Cena, who officially kicked off his year-long farewell tour which will be featured prominently on Netflix. 

In January 2024, WWE and Netflix struck a landmark deal to bring WWE’s flagship weekly program, RAW, to Netflix beginning in 2025. Netflix is now the exclusive home of RAW in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and Latin America, among many other global territories. Netflix is also the exclusive home of SmackDownNXT, archive content and all WWE Premium Live Events – including WrestleManiaRoyal RumbleSummerSlam and more — in most international markets.

Jade Cargill Returns to the WWE Performance Center Amid Injury Rumors

Jade Cargill was spotted at the WWE Performance Center today, according to PWInsider. The powerhouse performer has been working out in the ring, and will return this week, a significant update for fans following conflicting reports about her status.

  • During a Fightful Select Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp said that Cargill is “on their [WWE] internal injury list as best I know.”
  • Mike Johnson now reports that Cargill has been healthy, vacationing internationally and pursuing entertainment ventures outside of WWE.

Her absence from television has been storyline-driven, tied to an injury angle and a “mystery attacker” plot that remains unresolved.

The Storyline So Far

Cargill was written off WWE programming in dramatic fashion with a staged injury storyline, leaving fans speculating about her future.

The “mystery attacker” storyline continues to be a focal point in Cargill’s absence, keeping fans guessing about who might be behind the assault and what role Cargill will play upon her return.

During her hiatus, Naomi has (temporarily?) replaced her as one half of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions along with Bianca Belair. This adds a new dynamic to the tag division and the attacker’s identity.

Social Media Silence

Despite being active on social media in recent weeks with some bloody photographs (possibly from a project she’s working on), Cargill has remained tight-lipped about her storyline, her rumored injury, or when fans can expect her back on WWE television. This silence has only fueled further speculation about the direction of her character and the resolution of the mystery angle.

What’s Next for Jade Cargill?

Cargill’s return to the Performance Center suggests that her comeback may be imminent. Whether she will immediately re-enter the tag division alongside Naomi or pursue revenge against her “mystery attacker” remains to be seen. With her in-ring workouts resuming, fans can anticipate her eventual return to action as the storyline continues to unfold.