Jax Dane (Jeremy Laymon) died on December 25, 2024, due to complications from a heart attack suffered in late November.
Dane was a former NWA World Heavyweight Champion, holding the title for 419 days from 2015 to 2016. He also held multiple other championships throughout his career.
The NWA released a statement mourning Dane’s loss, with NWA President William Patrick Corgan describing him as a “friend, mentor, absolute professional in and out of the ring, and loyalist”.
The staff at SEScoops sends our condolences to the family and friends of Jax Dane. RIP
Remembering Jax Dane
Here are some tributes from the wrestling world honoring the life of Jax Dane:
The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) is heartbroken to announce the passing of Jeremy "Jax Dane" Laymon.
Born March 10, 1976, Dane left us on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, due to complications from a heart attack suffered in late November. Dane is survived by his wife… pic.twitter.com/wDMzRJxeNc
Friend, mentor, absolute professional in and out of the ring, and loyalist who went out of his way to support and rebuild the NWA of today, Jax Dane loved professional wrestling deeply and he certainly loved those he fought and rode with. I know I speak for all of the National… https://t.co/5JsrtJyJ0u
Wrestling aside, @TheJaxDane was an awesome friend. Hearing the news of his passing is devastating. I’ve not met too many people in my field who agreed with my world views and ways, but he sure did. He was the most gentle giant, always empathetic and true. A real champion in and… pic.twitter.com/a88wm4lEIe
Jax Dane…legit one of my favorite human beings, even laughed when I stole his gear to take promo pics as him in it (laughing thinking of it now.) A man with heart that matched his muscle, If there’s an afterlife, he’s going to be its champion. Dane Event….here’s to you brotha. pic.twitter.com/idT7iTfJdu
Netflix enlisted John Cena to bring Santa Claus to life in a festive and comedic twist during its NFL Christmas Gameday preshow on December 25, 2024. The promotional video, which kicked off the pregame festivities, featured Cena’s Santa grappling with the challenges of fulfilling the NFL’s Christmas “wish list.”
In the lighthearted sketch, Cena’s Santa lamented the modern-day difficulties of his job, including the dwindling number of fireplaces and chimneys in today’s homes. The humorous segment set a playful tone for Netflix’s inaugural foray into live-streamed NFL games, blending holiday cheer with the excitement of live sports.
This creative collaboration wasn’t just for laughs—it underscored Netflix’s bold expansion into live sports broadcasting. The Christmas Day lineup showcased two highly anticipated matchups: the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans. The preshow and games marked a new holiday tradition for Netflix, offering football fans a unique way to celebrate Christmas.
Cena’s turn as Santa Claus was part of a star-studded event that also included performances by music icons Mariah Carey and Beyoncé, as well as appearances from comedians Bert Kreischer and Nate Bargatze.
The fun doesn’t stop there for Cena on Netflix. Starting January 6, 2025, WWE Raw will debut on the platform, with Cena headlining the first night and making multiple appearances throughout the year as part of his 2025 retirement tour.
Posted December 25th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: John Cena.
Joe Tessitore continues to receive stellar reviews for his seamless transition to the WWE Universe. After three months into bis role as the new voice of WWE Raw, legendary commentator Jim Ross says Tessitore has exceeded his expectations.
Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Ross commended Tessitore’s impressive career path, highlighting his roles with both ESPN and WWE. “He’s built himself a nice business, hasn’t he? He’s making some serious money,” Ross remarked. “Gotta be making some big money with ESPN and WWE, two great clients to have if you’re an announcer.”
Ross also lauded Tessitore’s quick development in WWE, admitting he’s exceeded expectations. “He does a better job than I thought he ever would this early, to be honest with you. So they made a good hire there,” Ross said. He added that Tessitore’s success is rooted in genuine enthusiasm for wrestling. “I didn’t know he was a wrestling fan. You can’t be as successful as he’s been and as informative, timely, etc., without being a fan.”
Concluding his praise, Ross noted how Tessitore’s skills align perfectly with WWE’s needs. “Looks like they’re building their announcer base. It’s a good fit for them. Joe does a nice job, and I’m proud that he’s representing our trade as well as he is.”
Tessitore, known for his work in college football, boxing, and Monday Night Football, has infused a fresh energy into WWE commentary. His adaptability and storytelling have resonated with fans and industry veterans alike, proving his ability to thrive in this new environment.
With Jim Ross’s endorsement, Tessitore’s reputation as a top-tier announcer continues to grow. As he navigates his WWE journey, fans are excited to see how his distinct voice will shape the future of wrestling entertainment.
Charlotte Flair is edging closer to her return to WWE, and fans may witness a revamped version of The Queen upon her comeback.
Flair’s last match occurred on the December 8th, 2023, episode of SmackDown, where she suffered a devastating knee injury during a bout against Asuka. The injury, which involved a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus, required immediate surgery, sidelining her indefinitely. Initial reports suggested Flair wouldn’t step back into the ring until at least 2024.
Recent developments, however, hint at a sooner-than-expected return. Flair was recently spotted training alongside a former WWE star, sparking speculation about her comeback. Additionally, her name has been floated in connection with a marquee match at WrestleMania, suggesting that her return could be tied to a high-profile storyline.
A New Side of The Queen?
According to insights shared on the Backstage Pass podcast, WWE may be planning a shift in Charlotte Flair’s character. WrestleVotes revealed that Flair’s presentation could embrace an intensified version of her Queen persona.
The 14-time World Champion will have a different presentation when she returns to WWE than fans are used to seeing from her. She’ll be leaning into a ‘dark queen’ aura, with Wrestlevotes hinting, “Maybe like a little Seth Rollins-esque flair in her attire. She’ll just be turned up a little volume-wise.”
This potential transformation aligns with WWE’s pattern of evolving its top stars, giving Flair an opportunity to refine her regal character with a darker, edgier twist.
Rumors also suggest that WWE might be holding off Flair’s return to coincide with significant upcoming events, such as the debut of Raw on Netflix. If true, this would position Flair’s comeback as a major moment, tied to a broader effort to captivate both loyal fans and new audiences.
Whatever the exact plans, Charlotte Flair’s return promises to be a pivotal moment for WWE, showcasing a renewed energy and focus on one of its biggest stars. Fans can expect a compelling evolution of The Queen that could redefine her legacy in the squared circle.
WWE has opted not to tape its annual Tribute to the Troops special this year, marking the first time since the event’s inception in 2003 that the company has skipped the broadcast entirely. This has raised questions about the future of the event, which has historically been a significant part of WWE’s programming during the holiday season.
The decision comes during a year of substantial change within WWE’s leadership, leaving the status of Tribute to the Troops uncertain. While the promotion hasn’t made an official announcement about the event’s discontinuation, its absence has been noticeable. Historically, even in years like 2019 when no televised special aired, WWE still held live events to honor the troops. This year, however, no such activity has been reported.
The event is widely considered a Vince McMahon-driven initiative, originally proposed by WWE Hall of Famer John “Bradshaw” Layfield. The concept took shape in 2003, with WWE holding shows at military bases abroad until 2009. From 2010 onward, the event transitioned to domestic venues in the U.S.
The last notable mention of Tribute to the Troops came on the December 8, 2023, episode of SmackDown, which included a tribute-themed presentation but was not a dedicated event. With McMahon no longer at the helm, the show appears to have quietly faded from WWE’s calendar, further suggesting that it may no longer align with the company’s current direction.
As Christmas Day nears, WWE’s Drew McIntyre has delivered a festive yet fierce message by parodying the beloved 2003 romantic comedy Love Actually.
In the original film, Mark (played by Andrew Lincoln) silently confesses his love to Juliet (Keira Knightley) through a series of handwritten cards, accompanied by the song “Silent Night.” McIntyre’s playful spoof mirrors this iconic scene, but with his own WWE twist.
The multi-time World Champion uses the cue cards to send a pointed warning to The Bloodline, who made a surprise appearance on Monday’s WWE Raw and stuck their nose in McIntyre’s business.
Instead of Christmas carols playing in the background, like in the movie, Seth Rollins’ entrance theme sets the scene for McIntyre delivering a sequence of cheeky and ominous messages.
“Say it’s smart marks.”
“With any luck, by next year…
“One of these will be world champion.”
The video hilariously cuts to images of multiple Drew McIntyres before continuing:
“But for now, let me say…
“Without hope or agenda…
“Just because I’m Drew McIntyre (and Drew McIntyre always tells the truth)…
“The Bloodline will pay for their crimes.”
“And no one is getting in my way, even if I have to look like this…”
At this point, McIntyre reveals a comical depiction of himself sporting Cody Rhodes’ signature neck tattoo—a nod to Kevin Owens’ recent mockery of the tattoo during an invasion of WWE headquarters.
The video concludes with a final holiday-themed message:
“Merry Drewmas.”
McIntyre caps it off with a wink and a humorous imitation of Seth Rollins’ entrance before walking off, leaving fans both entertained and intrigued about what’s to come in his feud with The Bloodline.
The December 30 episode of WWE Raw will be a landmark event, marking the show’s final broadcast on the USA Network before its historic move to Netflix on January 6, 2025
WWE Raw Preview: December 30, 2024
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Semifinals: Dakota Kai faces Zoey Stark, and IYO SKY squares off against Lyra Valkyria.
Damian Priest & The War Raiders taking on The Judgment Day
Chad Gable vs. Otis in a battle of Alpha Academy alumni.
Pete Dunne vs. R-Truth
CM Punk and Seth Rollins will both be on hand ahead of their clash on the WWE Raw Netflix Debut.
As WWE bids farewell to its long-standing home, the episode promises action-packed matches and key developments that will set the tone for the new year.
The Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament reaches its semifinals, with Dakota Kai battling Zoey Stark and IYO SKY facing Lyra Valkyria. (Updated brackets)
Tensions between CM Punk and Seth Rollins are expected to escalate as both are confirmed to appear, fueling speculation about their brewing rivalry.
Other matches include Chad Gable versus Otis in a clash of Alpha Academy alumni, Pete Dunne against R-Truth in a battle of styles, and Damian Priest teaming with The War Raiders to face The Judgment Day in a hard-hitting encounter.
This final Raw on USA Network promises to be a memorable send-off as WWE begins its new chapter on Netflix.
Former WWE superstar Mustafa Ali, who has been actively competing on the independent wrestling circuit since his release in September 2023, remains optimistic about a potential return to WWE. During an interview with Insight host Chris Van Vliet, Ali shared insights into his journey post-WWE and the evolving dynamics of the wrestling industry.
Ali, a former X-Division Champion during his tenure with TNA Wrestling, is also preparing to launch a wrestling school in Chicago next month. He sees WWE’s upcoming transition to Netflix as a potential game-changer, offering new opportunities and flexibility for performers.
“There’s multiple paths. Their move to Netflix is very interesting… it opens up possibilities. I don’t know how much the show is going to change, but it might affect the dynamic, ratings, and what they’re open to.”
Reflecting on his time with WWE and working independently since his release, Ali believes he knows what it would take in order for him to have a more successful run than he did last time.
“Business is so good for them, and I do think there’s a pathway back. Even my release was handled respectfully, with a lot of kind messages exchanged. Ultimately, it’s about building something profitable and aligning with their needs. Wrestling is all about the right place and right time,” he explained.
While Ali is focused on carving his own path, his openness to a WWE return and his forward-thinking perspective highlight his understanding of the wrestling industry’s evolving landscape.
Second generation professional wrestling legend Dustin Rhodes has signed a new multi-year contract with All Elite Wrestling. The AEW-original says he’s grateful to Tony Khan for helping him rediscover his passion for the business after lazily it earlier in his career.
Rhodes shared on Monday that he didn’t anticipate his “One Last Ride” lasting this long but has cherished every moment of it.
AEW is his final career destination, describing it as “home” and a place where he feels respected, loved, and wanted. He pledges to continue working hard for AEW and pushing himself to new limits.
Rhodes expressed admiration and love for the AEW roster and the collaborative magic created in the locker room. Finally he thanked his family and fans for their ongoing support throughout his journey.
Today I have signed a new multi yr contract with @AEW
I want to thank my boss @TonyKhan for every opportunity he has given me. Since coming here and being an original since inception, I have truly had the time of my life. Everybody knows my story, and how much I have been… pic.twitter.com/bKmZWrXVsi
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has officially revealed two major events under the banner of “Maximum Carnage”, set to take place in January 2025. The announcement follows AEW’s recent trademark filings for terms like “Maximum Carnage”, “Maximum Mayhem”, and “Maximum Combat” with the United States Patent & Trademark Office, sparking fan speculation about potential new programming.
The first event, a live edition of AEW Dynamite, will be held on Wednesday, January 15, at the Andrew J Brady Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. The following night, Thursday, January 16, the same venue will host a taped episode of AEW Collision.
The Andrew J Brady Music Center confirmed the news via Twitter, unveiling the official event poster featuring AEW stars Swerve Strickland, Mercedes Moné, and hometown favorite Jon Moxley. These shows replace the originally scheduled Collision taping at the Broadbent Center in Louisville, Kentucky, for January 16.
? JUST ANNOUNCED ? @AEW brings you MAXIMUM CARNAGE with 2 action-packed nights of professional wrestling as AEW Dynamite AND AEW Collision invade Brady Music Center, 1/15 & 1/16!
— The Andrew J Brady Music Center (@BradyMusicCtr) December 23, 2024
AEW has not yet announced plans for the other trademarks, Maximum Mayhem and Maximum Combat, but additional updates on the Maximum Carnage events will follow as more details are released.
WWE fans can look forward to an additional hour of weekly programming starting in the new year.
On Friday, the WWE website released an updated guide detailing how to watch Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and premium live events across various regions worldwide.
The section for SmackDown includes the first following description:
“SmackDown continues to air on USA Network every Friday night at 8/7 C in the U.S. At the start of 2025, SmackDown will expand to three hours starting with the Jan. 3 episode from Phoenix, Arizona.”
This marks the first time SmackDown will expand to three hours since its debut in 1999, making it a historic moment for the show.
WWE Raw reverted to a two-hour format in October 2024, over 14 years after it first expanded to three hours in July 2012.
SmackDown expanding to three hours highlights WWE’s strategy to differentiate its flagship shows. This move positions SmackDown as a broader platform for storytelling and talent development, including showcasing the new Women’s United States Championship held by Chelsea Green.
Mixed Reaction to the Change
Reactions on X to SmackDown expanding to three hours have been mixed:
Some fans see this as a positive change, anticipating more screen time for storylines like the Bloodline, as well as greater opportunities for the women’s division and underutilized talent.
Others are concerned that the current two-hour format already struggles with consistency, fearing the additional hour may lead to repetitive or diluted content.
Some also view this as a strategic business move, benefiting WWE and USA Network by increasing advertising opportunities.
Overall, fans are divided between optimism for more in-depth storytelling and skepticism about whether the roster can sustain the added time with compelling content.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest wrestling news ahead of the big changes in store for WWE Raw and SmackDown.
This week’s episode of WWE SmackDown was pre-taped at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut, following last week’s show. The decision to tape the episode in advance gives the WWE roster additional time off for the Christmas season.
Matches and Segments
The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, and Tama Tonga) vs. LA Knight, Andrade, and Apollo Crews
This heated six-man tag team match stems from The Bloodline’s attack on Apollo Crews, which has only escalated tensions in recent weeks.
Women’s Tag Team Championship Match: Bianca Belair and Naomi (c) vs. Nia Jax and Candice LeRae
Belair and Naomi will defend their titles against the dominant Nia Jax and crafty Candice LeRae. Will the champs retain, or will new challengers claim the gold?
Kevin Owens Addresses the WWE Universe
Kevin Owens is set to address the crowd after his controversial actions at Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME). Following his loss to Cody Rhodes, KO attacked Cody and made off with the Winged Eagle Championship. Owens, who has been parading around with the stolen title, has even declared that he’ll defend it next week during the WWE holiday tour.
Braun Strowman vs. Carmelo Hayes (Rematch)
Braun Strowman and Carmelo Hayes will face off in a highly anticipated rematch. Last week, during The Grayson Waller Effect, Strowman appeared dressed as Santa Claus, but things took a chaotic turn, leading to this showdown.
Johnny Gargano vs. Alex Shelley
Johnny Gargano, riding a wave of momentum, takes on Alex Shelley in a singles match. However, Shelley is looking to settle the score after Gargano’s shocking heel turn.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest WWE SmackDown updates as the road to the big WWE Raw Netflix debut on Monday, January 6, continues
Dominik Mysterio didn’t hold back his thoughts on CM Punk’s in-ring performance after their match at a WWE live event on December 26, 2023. This marked Punk’s first WWE match since the Royal Rumble in 2014, a significant moment for wrestling fans. Despite the historic nature of the bout, Mysterio seemed unimpressed by Punk’s approach in the ring, taking aim at the wrestling icon’s repertoire of moves—a term that has become a meme in recent weeks.
Speaking on No Contest Wrestling with O’Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson, Dominik offered a sharp critique:
“I had the great dishonor of welcoming Punk back after ten long years. It was everything I expected it to be—just an old man trying to do his thing. Thinks he’s still got it. He went out there in some plain black underwear. Didn’t even have his gear. It was definitely a sight to see.”
– Dominik Mysterio
He went on to reflect on their shared history, referencing Punk’s feud with Rey Mysterio and a moment when Punk sang Happy Birthday to Dominik’s sister:
“I’m sure he remembers. He cornered my whole family back when he had that shitty long black hair. Now that I’m my own man, I’d love to get my hands on him again. I’ve seen what he can do—it’s nothing special. I know his moveset.”
– Dominik Mysterio
The term moveset has become a running joke in wrestling circles, spurred on by CM Punk’s recent dig at AEW rival Hangman Page’s use of the word. Punk mocked the term last week, leading to widespread commentary from wrestlers and fans alike. Mysterio’s jab is the latest in the ongoing meme-driven discourse surrounding Punk’s wrestling style.
Punk’s return to WWE has been a hot topic since his surprise appearance at Survivor Series 2023. While his match with Mysterio rekindled nostalgia for some, Dominik’s comments suggest not everyone is convinced of Punk’s current capabilities.
Punk’s next match is set for January 6, 2024, where he will face Seth Rollins during the WWE Raw on Netflix premiere. Fans eagerly await whether Punk can silence his critics or if the chatter about his moveset will persist.
The WWE Raw on Netflix Kickoff Event, held at WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, featured several major announcements that have left fans buzzing about the future of WWE on Netflix:
Main Event Announced:
CM Punk and Seth Rollins will headline Raw’s Netflix debut on January 6, 2025. The two rivals had yet another heated confrontation during the event, culminating in a face-to-face standoff that had to be broken up by Triple H.
Women’s World Championship Match:
Liv Morgan will defend her Women’s World Championship against Rhea Ripley on the highly anticipated Netflix premiere episode.
Triple H’s Vision:
Triple H addressed the audience, declaring that the “Triple H Era” is dedicated to the fans. He promised that WWE’s move to Netflix would elevate the company to unprecedented heights, especially as the road to WrestleMania begins.
Commentary Team Update:
Michael Cole announced that Pat McAfee will join him on commentary for Raw’s debut on Netflix, adding to the excitement of this new chapter for WWE.
The Bloodline Appearance:
Members of The Bloodline, including Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, and Tama Tonga, made an appearance. A highlight of the event was Fatu presenting Sikoa with the Ula Fala, a symbol of their heritage and unity.
Gunther and Logan Paul Exchange Words:
World Heavyweight Champion Gunther addressed Logan Paul’s recent championship aspirations, boldly stating that if Paul ever earns a title shot, he would “smack the stupid smirk off his face.”
The event, streamed live on YouTube from WWE Headquarters, included appearances from numerous WWE Superstars and set the stage for what promises to be an exciting new era for WWE on Netflix.
Recent reports suggesting that WWE’s iconic former headquarters has been sold are inaccurate. It was actually WWE’s old production studio located at 120 Hamilton Avenue, Stamford, that recently changed hands—not the legendary Titan Towers at 1241 E. Main Street.
Setting the Record Straight
The source of confusion appears to stem from WWE’s sale of their production studio to V20 Group, a Darien-based developer, for approximately $7.5 million. This studio, distinct from Titan Towers, spans 33,000 square feet and sits on a three-acre lot.
Meanwhile, Titan Towers, WWE’s former home base, remains under ownership ownership. Built in 1981, building boasts over 90,000 square feet of space, including 300 parking spots, and was valued at approximately $18 million in 2023. Located at 1241 E. Main Street, the iconic building has been listed for sale since May 15, 2024 but has yet to find a buyer.
A New Era for WWE Operations
New WWE Headquarters at 1241 E. Main Street in downtown Stamford, CT (Google Earth)
WWE has already moved its operations to a state-of-the-art headquarters at 677-707 Washington Blvd in Stamford. This expansive facility features 400,000 square feet of space and accommodates more than 800 employees. The new location also houses “The Studios at WWE,” which replaces the production studio sold earlier this year.
This past Saturday night, Jesse “The Body” Ventura made a triumphant return to WWE as a commentator for Saturday Night’s Main Event. After decades away from the company, Ventura reflected on his experience in a heartfelt post on his Substack. He shared his thoughts on stepping back into the world of wrestling, connecting with the new generation of talent, and his satisfaction with WWE’s new leadership.
Ventura’s return was a nostalgic and meaningful moment for the wrestling legend, who credits his son, Tyrel Ventura, for helping make it happen. “First of all, it was truly an honor to come back home to the WWE,” he wrote. “I have to thank my son, Tyrel, for putting the wheels in motion last summer. It’s been such an incredible feeling to return to the place where my career essentially began or, more accurately, really took off from.”
A New Era in WWE Leadership
In his post, Ventura highlighted the fresh energy he felt backstage, contrasting it with the WWE of his era. “The biggest thing I noticed was how different the energy and vibe is backstage,” he said. “You don’t feel a battle of egos like you often did back in my day. From the executive level to the locker room level, you instead feel a very strong sense of teamwork and creativity.”
He attributed this transformation to the leadership of Paul “Triple H” Levesque and WWE President Nick Khan. Ventura was full of praise for their efforts to foster a collaborative and innovative atmosphere:
“I think Paul, Nick Khan, and the team at WWE are creating a truly incredible and unique environment unlike any I have seen before in the world of wrestling.”
The New Generation
Ventura also enjoyed reconnecting with the wrestling world by mentoring and engaging with the current roster. “I loved being backstage and sharing stories, advice, and laughs with some of this generation’s new talent,” he shared.
His return marks a significant chapter in his relationship with WWE. After being away for years due to his tumultuous history with Vince McMahon, Ventura is clearly delighted with the company’s new direction.
Former WWE Women’s Champion Carmella has shared an emotional update on her health and life since stepping away from the spotlight. During a candid Instagram Live chat with fellow WWE star Bayley, Carmella opened up about the challenges of recovering from a nerve injury sustained during childbirth, her joy in motherhood, and her hopes of returning to the ring.
While she embraces her new role as a mom, the road to recovery has been a test of patience and determination. Read on as Carmella shares her journey of resilience and her longing to once again perform as the larger-than-life persona fans adore.
Becoming a Mother
In November 2023, Carmella and her husband, WWE commentator Corey Graves, welcomed their first child, Dimitri. Reflecting on this monumental life change, Carmella said during the live stream, “I love being a mom. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done ever, in my whole entire life.”
Motherhood has brought immense joy to the former WWE Superstar, but her delivery also marked the beginning of an unexpected health battle.
Health Challenges: Battling Drop Foot
During labor, Carmella experienced nerve damage resulting in a condition called drop foot, which impairs the ability to lift the front part of the foot. This condition, caused by damage to the peroneal nerve, can be particularly debilitating for an athlete.
In her conversation with Bayley, Carmella acknowledged the challenges of adapting to this condition. “This is the first major injury I’ve had in my entire career,” she shared, emphasizing the contrast to her injury-free decade-long wrestling tenure.
Working Towards Recovery
Carmella is actively addressing her condition with a combination of physical therapy, chiropractic treatments, and MRIs to monitor her progress. Recovery has been slow, but her determination remains steadfast. “Nerves do take a lot of time to heal, but eventually, we’ll get back to it,” she told Bayley during their chat.
Missing the WWE Ring
Though her recovery requires focus and time, Carmella admits to deeply missing her WWE persona and performing in front of fans. “Of course, I miss WWE. Of course, I miss everyone. I miss being Carmella. I miss performing. I miss it so much,” she confessed during the Instagram Live session.
Her connection to her fans and the adrenaline of performing continues to motivate her recovery journey, and she remains optimistic about returning to the ring.
Looking Ahead
Carmella’s candid conversation with Bayley revealed her determination to overcome this setback, embrace motherhood, and find her way back to WWE. With a strong support system and unwavering resilience, she is determined to write the next chapter of her remarkable journey. Fans eagerly await her return, confident she will step back into the ring stronger than ever.
Posted December 18th, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: Carmella.
Ahead of tonight’s Dynamite, get caught up on what happened last week.
AEW Dynamite: Winter is Coming 2024 Results December 11, 2024 from Kansas City’s T-Mobile Center
Jon Moxley & PAC def. Orange Cassidy & Jay White via DQ when Hangman Page interfered.
Adam Cole def. Kyle O’Reilly to earn a match against MJF at AEW Worlds End.
It was announced that Jon Moxley will defend the AEW World Title against Adam Page, Orange Cassidy, and Jay White at AEW Worlds End.
Ricochet def. Brody King in a Continental Classic Gold League match.
Mariah May def. Mina Shirakawa to retain the AEW Women’s Championship. Thunder Rosa appeared during the main event, followed by a surprise appearance by Toni Storm in her original attire
Kevin Owens has crowned himself the “True WWE Champion” and vowed to defend his stolen title during WWE’s annual holiday loop— a string of Christmas-week live events that brings WWE superstars to fans across multiple cities.
For those keeping track, Owens is not the WWE Champion. Cody Rhodes holds that distinction. Owens failed to capture the title from Rhodes this past weekend at Saturday Night’s Main Event. However, in a shocking post-match attack, Owens left with the iconic Winged Eagle Championship belt. The belt itself was being used by Cody for one night only, on loan from WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H.
That’s. Not. Yours.
Owens wasted no time seizing the moment, taking to social media with his trademark sarcasm to deliver this proclamation:
“BALLZ!!! Now that I have your attention, I have great news for you all! I am proud to officially announce that I will be competing in my first matches as your new, true WWE Champion on this year’s Holiday loop (that’s a term people in “the business” use that refers to a string of consecutive shows in different cities over a short period of time) starting in Jacksonville on the 26th, followed by 3 more shows in Florida and then one in Detroit for some reason. Be there to witness history! Oh, the Raw crew has shows too. Whatever.”
Kevin Owens Spreading Holiday Cheer
While Owens basks in the spotlight as the self-proclaimed champion, WWE has yet to hand down any formal disciplinary action for his post-match ambush and theft of the championship belt. Fans, however, are bracing for Rhodes’ inevitable revenge.
The company has provided a storyline update on Cody Rhodes’ condition following Owens’ attack, and it doesn’t sound good. The “American Nightmare” is reportedly dealing with significant injuries, adding to the anticipation of his eventual comeback. For now, though, Rhodes will have to sit out the holiday loop.
With Cody sidelined, Kevin Owens heads into the holiday season like the Grinch himself—winged eagle in hand, flaunting his “championship reign” in front of the WWE Universe.
Here are the matches confirmed for tonights WWE NXT live on The CW from Orlando, FL:
NXT Championship Match: Trick Williams (c) vs. Eddy Thorpe. This match has been building up for a while, with Thorpe calling out Williams for being undeserving of the NXT title.
NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Nathan Frazer & Axiom (c) vs. Gallus (Wolfgang & Mark Coffey). The champions have had an exciting reign thus far, but Gallus will provide a tough challenge.
Oba Femi vs. Axiom: Axiom will pull double duty, facing Oba Femi in a singles match. Femi is riding high with momentum from his Iron Survivor Challenge victory, so this will be a tough test for Axiom.
Zaria & Sol Ruca vs. Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson: This women’s tag team match features a classic clash of styles. Zaria and Ruca are high-flyers, while Legend and Jackson have the power.
Jaida Parker vs. Wren Sinclair: This match follows a heated backstage argument between the two last week.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest NXT news on the road to WWE New Year’s Evil on Tuesday, January 7 from Los Angeles.
.@Axiom_WWE will pull double duty THIS TUESDAY when Fraxiom defend the Tag Team Titles against Gallus AND he goes on-on-one with @Obaofwwe on #WWENXT!
Tonight’s December 16, 2024 episode of WWE Raw, is set to take place at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. There are several confirmed matches and segments, for the show, including two championship matches and fallout from Saturday Night’s Main Event:
Confirmed Matches
WWE World Tag Team Championship Match: Finn Balor and JD McDonagh of the Judgment Day (c) vs. The War Raiders (Erik and Ivar)
WWE Intercontinental Championship Match: Bron Breakker (c) vs. Ludwig Kaiser
Confirmed Segments
Feuding superstars CM Punk and Seth Rollins are both set to appear. They’re rumored to clash on Monday, January 6, 2025 on the WWE Raw Netflix debut.
Kofi Kingston’s Hometown Return will appear in front of his hometown crowd in Boston following he and Xavier Woods’ recent split from Big E.
Raw serves as the fallout show from Saturday Night’s Main Event, which took place at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island, New York (Results & Fallout).
Boca Raton Championship Wrestling (BRCW) hosted its annual Festival of Fights at the VIP Ballroom at CBI, blending professional wrestling with festive Hanukkah-themed entertainment. The event drew a crowd of approximately 350-450 attendees, including several wrestling legends and personalities.
Im at festival of fights in boca raton. Hanging out with fellow jews @The_MJF & @ColtCabana Known colt for several yrs. Miss his podcast. Mjf is the best heel in the biz. They have an open invite to my hannukah party pic.twitter.com/tWry02JnRt
Ariel Levy defeated Cha Cha Charlie, Steve Maclin, Tito Lincoln, and Lakay in an action-packed opener. Highlights included a Tower of Doom spot and a series of finishers broken up at critical moments. Levy secured the victory by donning Cha Cha’s “magic hat” and pinning him, earning a $5,000 check.
2. Mad Man Fulton vs. Chris Masters
Mad Man Fulton pinned Chris Masters following a devastating chokeslam. Observers noted that Masters appeared significantly larger than usual.
3. BRCW Cruiserweight Championship
Neil the Heel retained his title against Alan “S2S” Martinez in a competitive matchup.
4. Spin the Dreidel Match
The Righteous defeated Better Together in a match governed by the dreidel’s spin, landing on “Hardcore Match.” The contest featured plenty of weapons and comedic moments, keeping the audience engaged.
5. Colt Cabana vs. Bull James
On the 30th anniversary of his bar mitzvah, Colt Cabana triumphed over Bull James, adding sentimental value to his victory.
6. Open Challenge Promo
MTV reality star Mark Long cut a promo, issuing an open challenge for BRCW’s next event on March 9, 2024.
7. Deonna Purrazzo vs. Chelsea Durden
Deonna Purrazzo defeated Chelsea Durden, who wrestled in the very temple she grew up attending.
8. BRCW Tag Team Championship Match
Matt Riddle & Stallion Rogers (c) successfully defended their titles against Anthony Greene & Matt Taven in a highly competitive tag team bout.
9. Main Event: MJF vs. QT Marshall
MJF defeated QT Marshall in a match loaded with drama and crowd interaction.
QT Marshall cut a promo denouncing his Jewish heritage, claiming his Catholic side was superior and insulting both MJF and the audience.
MJF embraced his Jewish identity, humorously calling Boca Raton the “second most magical place in the world after Long Island” and promised to give Marshall a kangaroo kick.
Big Boom AJ made a surprise run-in, helping MJF by laying out QT Marshall, sealing the win for the “Salt of the Earth.”
The return of Saturday Night’s Main Event delivered a thrilling conclusion, with Cody Rhodes successfully retaining the Undisputed WWE Title. However, the celebration was cut short after the broadcast when Kevin Owens launched a brutal assault on Rhodes.
Some believe that Blanchard deserves a second chance, emphasizing the idea of redemption and acknowledging her talent in the ring. There’s a sentiment that everyone makes mistakes and should be given opportunities to make amends and prove themselves.
A few posts on X express optimism, suggesting that her return could be positive if she demonstrates good behavior and professionalism.
Let's be 100% honest Tessa Blanchard was always gonna eventually find her way back to an American Wrestling Brand either that was gonna be WWE Or TNA and well we see what happened
Anyone saying Otherwise are SERIOUSLY Deluding themselves
Many are skeptical or outright opposed to her return due to past controversies involving allegations of bullying and racism. There’s significant concern about whether TNA Wrestling has adequately considered the potential backlash and the impact on the locker room environment.
Some feel that TNA’s decision to bring her back reflects poorly on the company’s judgment and could damage its reputation further, especially given the history of her departure and the issues that followed.
There’s also concern about the morale of the current roster, with reports indicating that some wrestlers were surprised or even opposed to her return.
TNA re-signing Tessa Blanchard is the fable of the frog & the scorpion. Despite how disastrous their previous business relationship ended, they're trusting her not to sting them once again. Which everyone knows is going to happen.
— A Chief Rocka Called Bad News?????Razor Jerome (@5Deuce4Tre7) December 13, 2024
Tessa Blanchard being brought back is not that surprising. TNA will never be taken seriously; no matter how good members of their roster are. They have so many people who work their asses off and still consciously book the dumbest shit imaginable that makes them memeable and an…
There’s an acknowledgment of the business aspect; TNA might be looking to capitalize on her notoriety and wrestling ability, regardless of past controversies.
Discussions around her return often include a wait-and-see approach, where her actions post-return will determine the long-term sentiment. Some suggest that if she can maintain professionalism and avoid past mistakes, the negative sentiment might dissipate.
I'm all for redemption if someone has shown they have changed, and more importantly proved it to the people they treated like shit. I'm not someone who thinks we cant better ourselves. But this Tessa return is so yuck. Nobody but TNA wants her. What does that tell you?
Overall, the sentiment is complex, with a significant portion of the wrestling community and fans expressing doubt or opposition, while others advocate for giving her a chance to redeem herself professionally. The situation is seen as a high-risk move by TNA, with outcomes that could go either way depending on how Blanchard conducts herself moving forward.
The highly anticipated return of Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 14, 2024, promises a star-studded lineup of WWE legends, making it a must-watch event for wrestling fans. This weekend’s event will be held at the Nassau Coliseum, the historic venue where the inaugural Saturday Night’s Main Event aired nearly 40 years ago.
Headlining the list of legends is Jesse “The Body” Ventura, who will return to the commentary booth for the first time in years. Ventura, renowned for his sharp wit and distinctive voice, will serve as a commentator for Saturday Night’s Main Event’s quarterly specials on NBC. His return is a nostalgic highlight that fans won’t want to miss.
Although the specific details of their roles during the event remain under wraps, their presence ensures a night filled with nostalgia and excitement for long-time wrestling fans.
Saturday Night’s Main Event is shaping up to be a celebration of wrestling history, bringing together some of the most beloved figures in the sport. Stay tuned to SEScoops for more updates on this exciting event and the stars set to make an appearance.
