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DDP Discusses His New Netflix Project, “Change or Die”

WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page has another new project in the works.

Earlier this week, Guardians of Justice hit netflix, a live action super hero show with DDP on board doing voice work. The synopsis reads:

“The alien superhero MARVELOUS MAN has kept the earth at peace for 40 years. But when a devastating secret and its tragic consequences throws our world into chaos, it’s up to Marvelous Man’s bitter, violent lieutenant KNIGHT HAWK and idealistic do-gooder THE SPEED to stop nuclear war. A dark satire of the superhero genre, Guardians of Justice mixes live action with traditional animation, claymation, cut out paper animation, and 8-bit video game footage in a kaleidoscope of pop art insanity.”

Change or Die

According to DDP, he has another new show in the works. On the latest episode of his DDP Snake Pit podcat, the former WCW Champion discussed his new project, Change or Die.

The docu-series will feature everyday people moving in with him an an effort to turn their lives around. The show already began shooting in the Atlanta area.

“Jake moved into my place in the Accountability Crib,” said Page. “I rented it after everybody got out because I bought another place. I asked my renters to leave so we can go back in there because we have six bedrooms there.

He continued, “So we’re gonna bring five people into the house and try to help them through this journey. It will end up on a major cable network or who knows, maybe primetime. It’s gonna be really educational.”

DDP described Change or Die as a cross between The Biggest Loser, The Apprentice and Fear Factor.

SEScoops will keep you updated when there is more information available about Change or Die.Netflix.

AEW Revolution 2022 Predictions

We’ve got our AEW Revolution 2022 predictions ahead of the big pay-per-view this Sunday from Orlando, Florida.

SEScoops team members Fernando Quiles, Jr., Tyriese Simon and Andrew Ravens are here to provide their expert picks for each match on the card.

Check out their predictions below and hit up the comments section with your own.

AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill vs. Tay Conti

Andrew Ravens: There’s no chance Tay wins the title here and the oddsmakers are backing Jade by a lot. Tay is another opponent for Jade to work with and make her look good, but Jade walks away with the strap. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Fernando: This is a step up for Jade in terms of competition for her TBS Championship. I expect Tay to get a lot more offense in this one than past challengers but she will ultimately fall short. Jade’s title reign is too fresh to end now. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Tyriece: AEW is booking Jade Cargill as a dominant force in the women’s division, and I think she continues the momentum at Revolution. Tay Conti will get some offense and have her moments, but Cargill will win to continue her winning streak. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Consensus: Jade Cargill to retain the TBS Championship

Matt Hardy, Andrade El Idolo and Isiah Kassidy vs. Sting, Darby Allin and Sammy Guevara

Fernando: It seems like Jeff Hardy will eventually make his way to AEW and if that’s the case, Matt is definitely turning face and realigning with his brother. I think the seeds have been planted for the Hardy Family Office eventually crumbling or being taken over by Andrade. Things could very well break down in this match as I see Darby, Sting, and Sammy getting the win. (Prediction: Sting, Darby Allin & Sammy Guevara)

Andrew Ravens: This is a pretty easy pick here as the babyfaces should go over. If you need a weak link then Kassidy is the guy to take the loss. Let everyone goes their separate ways aside from Allin and Sting after this one. (Prediction: Sting, Darby Allin, and Sammy Guevara)

Tyriece: This match could begin the split between Andrade and Matt Hardy. Hardy has shown to be frustrated with the private party, and AEW teased tension between him and Andrade. (Prediction: Darby Allin, Sting, and Sammy Guevara)

Consensus: Sting, Darby Allin & Sammy Guevara

AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker vs. Thunder Rosa

Andrew Ravens: Oddsmakers are really behind Rosa to win here and while she is just one of two stars who could realistically beat Baker, the question comes down to why take the title off Baker when she’s far and above anyone else. The fans will still be behind Rosa despite the loss. Baker walks away with the gold. (Prediction: Britt Baker)

Tyriece: AEW has itself in an interesting situation with Baker vs. Rosa. The champion has reigned as AEW Women’s Champion since May. 30, 2021. She also defeated several of the top talents in the division, like Ruby Soho, Tay Conti, and Riho. Now is the time for Baker to lose the title, and Rosa can lead the division. I can also see Mercedes Martinez help Rosa in the match by taking out Jamie Hayter and Rebel. If AEW has Baker defeat Rosa, she Will have beaten all worthy babyface based on AEW’s win/loss record. I think Rosa pulls the upset. (Prediction: Thunder Rosa)

Fernando: Before the go-home show on Dynamite, my money was on Thunder Rosa becoming the new AEW Women’s Champion. With her pinfall victory over Britt in a tag team match, that thought has sailed. I think Britt wins this one through nefarious means and we get a rematch at Double or Nothing. (Prediction: Britt Baker)

Consensus: Britt Baker retains the AEW Women’s World Championship

Face of the Revolution Ladder Match

Andrew Ravens: Some interesting names in this one, but to me, it comes down to only two guys – Wardlow and Keith Lee. With Lee recently making his debut, I can see a case being made as to why he should win to keep his winning ways going forward. However, I side with Wardlow, who has been teasing for months splitting away from MJF. What better way for Wardlow to win gold without the help of MJF to make MJF even more upset with his security. (Prediction: Wardlow)

Tyriece: “Limitless” Keith Lee should be the favorite going into this match and for the right reasons. Lee is a new talent in AEW, and this match is a great way to show his ability. He’s also the only competitor without a faction. I think some inadvertent double-crossing may happen, particularly between Shawn Spears and Wardlow. I believe Lee throw someone off the ladder to win the match. (Prediction: Keith Lee)

Fernando: It’s interesting that they went with more muscle for a ladder match over the high flyers. Regardless, this is gonna be a fun one. I think Shawn Spears will cost Wardlow by “accidentally” hitting him with a chair. My pick for this one is “Limitless” Keith Lee, which means trouble for Sammy Guevara’s second TNT Title reign. (Winner: Keith Lee)

Consensus: Keith Lee earns the TNT Title Shot

AEW World Tag Team Championship

Andrew Ravens: I could see the possibility of reDRagon winning the titles here since they’ve been pushed strongly. To me, it just doesn’t make sense for there to be a title change as Jurassic Express is so over with the fans. It will be one of the best matches on the card though (Prediction: Jurassic Express)

Tyriece: In this match, it is difficult to say who wins. Jurassic Express won the Tag Team Championship on Jan. 5. Would AEW take the titles off of them with a two months reign? I think they will retain the championships. However, it wouldn’t surprise me if the ReDragons stole the win to add to the tension between them and the Young Bucks. (Prediction: Jurassic Express)

Fernando: My hope is that Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus don’t get overshadowed by the animosity between reDRagon and The Young Bucks. There will definitely be moments in this match where reDRagon and The Bucks fail to get on the same page and start brawling. It’ll ultimately lead to a successful title defense for Jurassic Express. (Prediction: Jurassic Express)

Consensus: Jurassic Express retains the AEW World Tag Team Championships

Chris Jericho vs. Eddie Kingston

Tyriece: It’s interesting to note that Eddie Kingston has never won at an AEW Pay per view. Unfortunately, I don’t think he will be at Revolution. Jericho seems to be transitioning to a heel as the “influencer,” and I don’t believe he takes the loss. AEW could decide to have Kingston win to push Jericho to a full-fledged heel after the match. However, I think Jericho cheats to defeat Kingston. (Prediction: Chris Jericho)

Fernando: There is an opportunity to extend this feud with a Chris Jericho win. Eddie is obviously long overdue for a big victory but I don’t think he gets it this weekend. I think Eddie gets screwed and continues to search for that elusive signature win, which he’ll get at Double or Nothing in a rematch with Jericho. (Prediction: Chris Jericho)

Andrew Ravens: Kingston is a big favorite here and I agree. Jericho doesn’t need the win, but Kingston does. Depending on the finish, we could get a second match out of this feud as Jericho has been acting very heelish as of late and if Kingston gets a cheap win then Jericho can point that out to make the case for a rematch. (Prediction: Eddie Kingston)

Consensus: Chris Jericho wins

Dog collar match: CM Punk vs. MJF

Andrew Ravens: This should be the blowoff match although if Punk wins here, which I expect to happen, a case could be made for a third match with an even greater stipulation taking place to decide a clear cut winner although I think this storyline has been drawn out enough to close it out here. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Fernando: There’s no way Punk is walking out of Revolution without a victory. MJF bloodied Punk on the go-home episode of Dynamite and it’s time for some payback. Max will finally get his comeuppance and one has to wonder if this is where Wardlow will turn face (Prediction: CM Punk)

Tyriece: Punk should win this match. MJF won the first encounter on Feb. 2, and I think Punk gets his revenge. Shawn Spears may come out to interfere, but Wardlow may do something to stop Spears and Punk gets the win. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Consensus: CM Punk wins

Bryan Danielson vs. Jon Moxley

Andrew Ravens: Honestly, this should be a coin flip as either guy could win here. I can see why Danielson wins and he earns the respect of Moxley to be his tag team partner, but I can also see how a Moxley win would upset Danielson, a heel, who takes it to the next level with attacks and it leading to a rematch. I’ll side with Moxley. (Prediction: Jon Moxley)

Tyriece: I expect this match to be very physical and hard-hitting. Moxley hadn’t lost a match since his AEW return, and I don’t think he loses at Revolution. Danielson wouldn’t be hurt by a loss to Moxley either. The question will be if Danielson and Moxley will team up afterward? (Prediction: Jon Moxley)

Fernando: Throughout the buildup to this match, Jon Moxley has been saying that if Danielson expects to fight with him, then he has to bleed with him. That means both men are definitely doing blade jobs in this match. I see Moxley standing tall with a crimson mask when this one is over. (Prediction: Jon Moxley)

Consensus: Jon Moxley wins

AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page vs. Adam Cole

Fernando: I think most can agree that Hangman is retaining the title but how they get there could be interesting. Will The Young Bucks thwart interference from reDRagon given their beef and the connection to Hangman? There are a few directions they go can in but all will lead to a win for Hangman Page. (Prediction: Hangman Page)

Andrew Ravens: Page has only been champion for just over 100 days so it seems a little early if you’re looking back at long-term AEW World Championship reigns to take the title off him despite Cole being an excellent choice to carry the top prize in the company. I don’t see a rematch coming out of this and Cole will certainly make his way back to the title in the distant future. Page keeps the gold. (Prediction: Adam Page)

Tyriece: Does Adam Page lose the AEW world title as champion after less than four months? I believe he does. It seems that AEW has featured Cole as more of a star than Page in the last few weeks. Cole has been given more screen time and has the storyline of being the new leader for the Elite. I think Cole wins, and Page will go back to chasing the title. (Prediction: Adam Cole)

Consensus: “Hangman” Adam Page retains the AEW World Championship

Tony Khan Buys Ring of Honor

AEW President Tony Khan has purchased Ring of Honor.

Khan has been promoting a “major announcement” and announced the news on at the start of this week’s AEW Dynamite.

https://twitter.com/BRWrestling/status/1499189906194649089

Khan issued a statement on social media addressing the acquisition, which includes the video library, brand assets and intellectual property.

“Ring of Honor’s influence on modern professional wrestling is etched permanently in the history books, and this acquisition ensures that its legacy will be kept alive and treated with the utmost respect,” said Tony Khan, CEO of AEW, Chief Football Strategy Officer of the Jacksonville Jaguars and GM/Sporting Director of Fulham F.C. “This deal adds thousands of hours of content to our rapidly growing library and creates new opportunities for us to expand our footprint on a national and global scale, while having the potential to produce new content under the ROH banner. I will immediately begin exploring opportunities to make ROH’s video library available to fans, who’ll have the opportunity to witness the beginnings of the careers of AEW’s biggest stars.”

The press release mentions that more than 40 members of the AEW roster first wrestled for ROH, including CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, Hangman Page, Dr. Britt Baker and Adam Cole.

Ring of Honor presents Supercard of Honor on Friday, April 1st from Dallas-Fort Worth, TX at the Curtis Culwell Center. This will be the first ROH live event since the company took a hiatus after December’s Final Battle pay-per-view.

Report: Triple H’s ‘Top Executive Assistant’ Gone from WWE

Lisette Pineda, Manager of Global Talent Strategy and Development for WWE, recently left the company. The news was first reported by PWInsider.

Pineda worked closely with Paul Levesque (Triple H), with some describing her role as his “top executive assistant.”

Levesque has yet to return to working full-time since suffering a ‘cardiac event’ last year. There is no timeframe for him to return, but Pineda’s release indicates it won’t be any time soon.

Levesque has made very few public appearances over the past few months. Back in November, he was spotted touring the building that will serve as WWE’s new headquarters.

In January, he appeared on NBC’s Nightly News to discuss WWE’s NIL (“Next In Line”) program and the company’s initiative to recruit collegiate athletes.

Lisette Pineda’s departure has led to speculation about Levesque’s future with WWE. PWInsider’s report states:

“Many who used to be in constant communication with him haven’t spoken with him in some time and there’s no indication he’s anywhere close to stepping back into his former roles for the company.”

Pineda had been with WWE for two years. According to her LinkedIn page, she previously spent 6 years at Goldman-Sachs.

Nia Jax Says “Everyone Is Miserable” In WWE

Don’t expect to see Nia Jax back in WWE any time soon.

Jax was released by WWE back on November 4th, along with Keith Lee, Killer Kross, Eva Marie and many others. She soon after released a statement and revealed that she was on a “mental health break” when WWE decided to cut her loose.

She has since stated that it’s very unlikely that she’ll wrestle again, but you never know in this crazy business.

On Wednesday, a fan on Twitter told Nia Jax that “we need her” back in WWE so she and Doudrop can team up and go after the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Jax is a former tag champion with Shayna Baszler.

Nia Jax on WWE Morale

Nia Jax did not mince words with her reply. She said, “lol no thank you!” She added that she speaks to friends in WWE on a regular basis and “everyone is miserable there.”

There have been widespread reports of low morale in WWE, especially around the time the company releases talent.

Nia Jax is now a free agent and is legally cleared to work for other wrestling promotions, if that’s something that interested her.

During a recent appearance on Renee Paquette’s The Sessions podcast, she admitted that her feelings were hurt by the perception that she was unsafe to work with.

This past weekend, she was a guest at the Alexa Bliss bachelorette party from Las Vegas.

Amari Miller Confirms She Suffered a Concussion on NXT

Amari Miller confirms she suffered a concussion on this week’s NXT 2.0.

Miller wrestled Lash Legend on the show. The duo recently joined forces in the Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament, but lost in the first round. The former partners squared off to determine who was the weak link in the team.

Tuesday’s match featured a few spots that could have been executed better and were reflective of the competitors being ‘developmental’ talents.

Miller sustained an injury during the match, although it is unclear exactly when. She was tended to afterwards and was taken away from the ringside area on a stretcher.

You can watch highlights from the match here:

Amari Miller Concussion

Amari Miller responded to fans on social media who commented on the situation and addressed the situation.

Miller clarified that she was up late tweeting because it can be very dangerous, even fatal, to fall asleep immediately after sustaining a head injury or concussion.

She later thanked everybody for their concern.

SEScoops wishes Amari Miller a speedy recovery.

ROH Supercard of Honor: Updated Card with New Matches

Ring of Honor presents Supercard of Honor on Friday, April 1st from Dallas-Fort Worth, TX at the Curtis Culwell Center.

This will be the first ROH live event since the company took a hiatus after December’s Final Battle pay-per-view.

During that time, Ring of Honor has been undergoing a period of re-evaluating its business operations. It also announced the inaugural ROH Hall of Fame class, featuring The Briscoe Brothers, CM Punk, Samoa Joe and Bryan Danielson.

Earlier this week, ROH made several announcements related to Supercard of Honor 2022.

Free agent Sw3rve The Realest (Shane Strickland) will make his ROH debut against Alex Zane.

Joe Hendry has signed on to compete at the event:

Popular wrestling YouTube personality Denise Salcedo will also serve as a special guest host.

ROH Supercard of Honor 2022 Matches

Here is the updated card for ROH Supercard of Honor XV:

  • ROH World Champion Jonathan Gresham vs. Bandido (Winner Takes All match to determine the Undisputed ROH World Champion
  • ROH World Tag Team Champions The Briscoe Brothers vs. TBA
  • ROH Women’s World Champion Deonna Purrazzo vs. TBA
  • Sw3rve The Realest vs. Alex Zane
  • Joe Hendry vs. TBA
  • Ninja Mack vs. TBA

If you’re in the Dallas area for WrestleMania 38 weekend, visit the Culwell Center website for ROH Supercard of Honor tickets.

Keep checking back to SEScoops for all the latest news about Ring of Honor and the upcoming Supercard of Honor 2022 event.

Alexa Bliss Bachelorette Party Photos from Las Vegas

Alexa Bliss celebrated her bachelorette party this past weekend in Las Vegas.

A few pro wrestling personalities were in attendance, including former WWE stars Athena (Ember Moon) and Lina Fanene (Nia Jax).

Bliss is engaged to be married to pop star Ryan Cabrera. Alexa Bliss and Ryan Cabrera got engaged in November 2020. The happy couple is planning to get married this spring, some time after WrestleMania 38 weekend.

The bride-to-be posted some photos from the festivities, which you can see below. The bachelorette party included a pole dancing class, hitting a nightclub, karaoke and some good food.

She wrote on Instagram, “What an amazing weekend! Thank you to @joylynnjohnson & @chrisprovino for planning & organizing the best bachelorette weekend ever. my heart is so full with love & fun from the whole weekend! Had an amazing time @mandalaybay.”

Ric Flair NFT Collection Launching, WoooooThings

A Ric Flair NFT collection is launching soon, WoooooThings.

The all-time great wrestling legend will soon be the star of a batch of NFTs Each one will be an animated GIF.

The official @WoooooThings account says,

“Each NFT will be a moving GIF. This project will represent the legacy of RicFlair on the Ethereum blockchain forevermore.”

Are you into NFTs? Would you invest in the Ric Flair NFT? Let us now in the comments section.

Here is some of the preview artwork for the Ric Flair WoooooThings NFT collection:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Caicn17pGJk/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ2aBuIlLID/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ2aaQsvNWh/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ2auWQPaex/

Paige Reacts to Being Left Out of WWE 2K22 Video Game

Paige is not happy she has been left off the roster for the new WWE 2K22 video game.

The WWE 2K22 Roster was revealed this week and features 149 wrestlers. This includes 59 wrestlers who are no longer with the company or legends.

This will be the first time since 2014 that Paige has not been a playable character in the WWE video game. She remains under contract with WWE for several more months, but is not one of the 149 people in this year’s game.

Paige previously appeared in the past six WWE video games (WWE 2K15-20).

On Monday, Paige asked the official @WWEGames Twitter account,

“where tf am i?”

https://twitter.com/realpaigewwe/status/1498440437312327684?s=217:27

Paige also asked @WWEGames about several other women left out of the game, including the Bella Twins, Zelina Vega and Doudrop.

https://twitter.com/realpaigewwe/status/1498450122140622849?s=217:28

Paige, the Bella Twins and others may eventually be released as downloadable content.

Former WWE/NXT star JONAH (Bronson Reed) also reacted to the WWE 2K22 roster list.

Check out SEScoops’ official WWE 2K22 Review

Logan Paul Reveals His Pro Wrestling ‘Bucket List’ Dream

Logan Paul hopes to make a “bucket list” dream come true at WrestleMania.

The YouTube star and podcaster made a surprise appearance on last week’s WWE Raw. He was revealed to be The Miz’s mystery partner for a match against Rey and Dominik Mysterio at WrestleMania 38.

Paul appeared on The MMA Hour on Monday and spoke with Ariel Helwani about his current involvement with WWE.

“Yeah man, I don’t know what’s going on, I don’t know what’s going on dude, I say yes to things that sound kind of fun,” he said about WrestleManai. “They wanted me to compete at WrestleMania. I like The Miz, I’ve had him on our podcast, we’re both from Ohio and we’ve always just gotten along. So, yeah, we ended up (laughs) teaming up against the Mysterios, which are a legendary WWE family in themselves… Same shit dude, I don’t know.”

Jake Paul’s Bucket List

Jake Paul then revealed his childhood dream is to jump off the top rope.

“I have one bucket list item that I’ve wanted to do my whole life,” he said. “This is before I ever considered doing WWE, or it even being a possibility, and that is to jump off the top rope. I want to jump off the top rope. I want to sail through the air like a fucking eagle and land on someone.”

Boyhood dreams are known to come true at WrestleMania. Logan Paul might get his chance to scratch an item off his bucket list in just under 5 weeks at WrestleMania 38.

The Miz and Logan Paul vs. Rey and Dominik Mysterio is scheduled to take place at WrestleMania Saturday.

Watch Jake Paul’s appearance on The MMA Hour and make sure to visit MMANews.com for all the latest UFC news.

Hulk Hogan Announces He’s Divorced From Jennifer McDaniel

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has announced he and second wife Jennifer McDaniel have divorced.

The Hulkster and McDaniel were married in 2010. No word on exactly when the marriage dissolved, but he says they are no longer together.

Over the weekend, Hulk Hogan posted a video on Instagram along with rock star Bret Michaels. Hogan was accompanied by a blonde woman who is not Jennifer McDaniel, which prompted him to clarify things on social media.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cae95N3vCtF/

Hulk Hogan was previously married to Linda Claridge Hogan from 1983-2009. They have two children together, Nick and Brooke.

Johnny Gargano Now Taking Independent Bookings

Johnny Gargano is now fielding offers for appearances and business inquiries.

Gargano became a free agent in late 2021 after his WWE contract expired. The company made an effort to keep him on board, but he had other plans.

During his time away from the wrestling world, Johnny Gargano has been active online with his Twitch streaming account. Earlier this month, he and wife Candice LeRae became proud parents of a beautiful baby girl, Quill.

He also wanted the freedom to selectively pick and choose select projects.

“Johnny Wrestling” is now accepting bookings and business inquiries at JohnnyGarganoBookings@hotmail.com.

Johnny Gargano hasn’t wrestled on the independent scene since 2015. He participated in a WWE tryout camp in June 2015 and wrestled for NXT for six and a half years.

As one of the most talented wrestlers in the world, he probably won’t remain independent for very long. For now, his publicist/manager is ready to field series offers.

Cody Rhodes Gives “BIG Props” to Brandi for AEW Detroit Debut

All Elite Wrestling is heading to Detroit, Michigan for the first time this summer.

AEW Dynamite and Rampage will take place from Detroits Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday, June 29th.

The venue is the home arena of the Pistons (NBA) and Red Wings (NHL). It has a max capacity of over 18,000 fans, but maxes out around 14,000 for wrestling events.

According to WrestleTix, WWE Raw on March 12, 2018 sold 13,791 tickets. WWE’s most recent show there, a Super Show featuring John Cena last summer (August 1, 2021), sold 10,790 tickets.

Tickets for AEW’s Detroit debut go on sale Friday, March 11th at AEWTix.com and Ticketmaster.

Cody Rhodes Reacts to AEW Detroit

Former AEW star Cody Rhodes commented on AEW heading to Detroit. He said it’s “very cool to see!” and congratulated his wife Brandi and AEW live event coordinator Rafael Morffi for “making Detroit finally happen.”

Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair Set for WrestleMania Saturday

Becky Lynch will defend the Raw Women’s Championship against Bianca Belair at WrestleMania Saturday, also known as “Night 1” of WrestleMania 38. The news was first reported by Joey Hayden of the Dallas Morning News.

As the card for WrestleMania takes shape, WWE has begun announcing which matches will take place on which night.

We are less than 5 weeks away from WrestleMania weekend and only three matches have been signed for “the most stupendous two-night WrestleMania in history.” Expect additional match announcements to begin rolling out as soon as this week.

WrestleMania 38 Schedule

Here is the updated schedule for WrestleMania 38:

WrestleMania Saturday

  • Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair
  • SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey

WrestleMania Sunday

  • WWE Champion Brock Lesnar vs. Universal Champion Roman Reigns (Winner Take All Unification Match)

Visit our official WrestleMania event hub for details on how to watch the event, rumored matches and more.

Sam Roberts’ SmackDown Appearance Came Together at the Last Minute

Sam Roberts made a surprise appearance on Friday’s edition of WWE SmackDown.

Roberts interviewed The Usos backstage, and also spoke with Drew McIntyre for a digital exclusive segment.

On the latest episode of his NotSam Wrestling Podcast, Sammy Bran Muffins, now known as Sammy SmackDown, spoke about the experience.

As it turns out, the appearance came together on short notice. Sam got a call from an unnamed WWE employee late Friday afternoon asking if he could be in Hershey, PA by 7:30pm for SmackDown.

Roberts immediately started “map questing” if he could make it from Westchester, NY (where he lives) to Hershey, PA in time. He estimated he could be at the venue by 8:02pm local tim, when SmackDown would already be on the air for two minutes. The WWE employee told him, “Well just get in the car!”

“I mean, when I tell you that for three hours, every 10 seconds, I’m just glancing at the GPS, glancing at the gas take, glancing at the road to make sure that I don’t run over something and end up with a flat tire,” said Roberts. “I think it was the quickest three hour trip that I’ve ever been on because my mind was occupied the entire time. I was like one tense muscle driving the entire way to Hershey, Pennsylvania.”

The rest, as they say, is history. Roberts took care of business on SmackDown to the delight of fans on social media.

Eric Bischoff: “AEW Has To Grow Their Business. They Haven’t Thus Far.”

Eric Bischoff continues to be outspoken about All Elite Wrestling’s level of success.

The former WCW President has been critical about various aspects of AEW. He acknowledges they have amassed a “super loaded” roster, but doesn’t feel the company has realized its full potential.

On the latest episode of his 83 Weeks podcast, Bischoff explained what he believes are AEW’s shortcomings.

“AEW has to grow their business,” he began. “They haven’t thus far. Now they’re inching up since NXT is no longer head-to-head. Dynamite, they’re probably 10% or 12% some are estimating ahead of where they were this time last year. But they’re still having a hard time consistently breaking a million viewers. It’s up and down with a super-loaded roster.”

AEW Dynamite viewership has increased year-over-year. The viewership trend is positive since moving to TBS at the start of this year. That said, there is still significant room for improvement.

Appealing to a Wider Audience

Eric Bischoff Tony Khan
Former WCW President Eric Bischoff & AEW President Tony Khan

Bischoff’s critique is sensible. AEW has all the star power they need at this point. So, what will it take for AEW Dynamite viewership to 1.5 million viewers each week?

“At some point, they’re going to need a world champion, or two, a men’s champion and a women’s champion.. They’re going to need somebody that’s a legitimate larger than life star, not just physically, but larger than life to a broader audience.”

Bischoff says AEW and Turner might be satisfied with one million viewers each week. If they intend to draw viewership that rivals WWE Raw and SmackDown, they need to appeal to a wider audience.

“They’re going to need to focus on some larger than life type characters that are going to attract more than just the hardcore fanbase that they currently have.”

Eric Bischoff is a free agent who has appeared on WWE and AEW television in recent years. His most recent national TV appearance took place last month on SmackDown.

Eric Bischoff Critiques AEW

Here are some related articles covering Eric Bischoff’s comments about AEW:

Britt Baker on Her WWE Tryout & Dental School Leading Her to AEW

Britt Baker is one of the most successful women’s wrestlers in the world, but it was a long journey to the AEW Women’s World Championship.

If you haven’t heard, she’s also a dentist. Baker somehow maintains two successful careers. This is a testament to her work ethic and determination. As it turns out, her dental school education kept her from fulfilling her dream of joining WWE.

On the latest episode of the Talk is Jericho podcast, Baker spoke to Chris Jericho about her hopes of signing with WWE several years ago

Baker had a tryout with the company and was in the same class as Lacey Evans. She felt confident WWE would offer her a contract, but her dental school education knocked those plans off course.

At the time of her WWE tryout, Canyon Ceman was a top executive in the talent development division. Baker described him as “the gatekeeper” who brought independent wrestlers on board to the company’s developmental system.

“He pulled me aside at the end of the tryout,” Baker recalls. “And he was like, ‘You know, you’ve just started dental school. As a father, I have a hard time pulling you from a professional degree.’ My heart dropped.”

Baker says she would have left dental school in a heartbeat if it meant she could join WWE. Looking back, she owes Ceman “the world” for not offering her a contract at the time.

“I would have left dental school in a heartbeat to go to WWE,” she said. “Because I was young, dumb, and I was like, ‘I’m going to be NXT Women’s Champion,’ like that would have got me far, right? He stayed in touch with me every few months after that. Like, ‘Let me know when you finish dental school, send me your matches.’ He always kept up with me.”

Ceman was released by WWE last year after nearly a decade with the company.

Britt Baker went on to join All Elite Wrestling in 2019. She captured the AEW Women’s World Championship at last year at Double or Nothing and is considered one of the most popular stars in the indsutry.

Baker defends the AEW Women’s champion against Thunder Rosa next weekend at AEW Revolution.

Corey Graves Teases a “Familiar Face” is Returning Before WrestleMania

WWE fans can expect a “familiar face” to return before WrestleMania 38.

We are now on the road to WrestleMania. The anticipation is building for WWE’s biggest event of the year. Brock Lesnar and Ronda Rousey are on board to ensure WrestleMania is a box office success. However, WWE isn’t done stacking the deck.

On the latest episode of his After the Bell podcast, WWE broadcaster Corey Graves addressed rumors that another big name will soon be back on television.

“… and who knows, if the rumors do in fact prove to be true, we may have another familiar face back in the fold between now and the Showcase of the Immortals,” said Graves. “This is one of those ones where: if you know, you know. I’m not going to speak to it any longer.”

Graves says he knows exactly what he’s doing: feeding the rumor mill.

“I’m stoking the flames and I am pouring gas on the fire,” he added. “If the rumors are true, I couldn’t be more thrilled.”

So, who is Corey Graves talking about? There are a few people rumored to be returning to WWE storylines ahead of WrestleMania 38. Three possibilities are Cody Rhodes, Vince McMahon or “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.

Cody Rhodes recently left AEW after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a new contract. WWE is rumored to be very interested in the American Nightmare’s services.

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon and Pat McAfee are reportedly scheduled to work a program at WrestleMania, while Steve Austin is rumored to come out of retirement to face Kevin Owens.

The good news is that WrestleMania is just five weeks away and we won’t have to wait much longer to find out who Corey Graves is referencing

NXT Star Ivy Nile Announces She Is Engaged

WWE Superstar star Ivy Nile is engaged to be married.

She posted the following photo on social media over the weekend, vowing to always love her fiancé.

Ivy Nile (Emily Andzulis) currently wrestles for WWE’s NXT 2.0 developmental brand. She is a member of the Diamond Mine faction.

Prior to joining WWE, she was a mixed martial artist and was the first woman to win the Titan Games championship, the reality competition series hosted by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Nile an Tatum Paxley recently entered the 2022 Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament. They were eliminated in the first round with a loss to Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter.

SEScoops extends our congratulations to Ivy Nile and fiancé on their engagement!

Steve Austin Hosting Beer Bash During WrestleMania Weekend

WWE Hall of Fame “Stone Cold” Steve Austin is headed to WrestleMania weekend.

The Texas Rattlesnake has announced Steve Austin’s Badass Broken Skull Bash, presented by El Segundo Brewing company.

Austin will be on hand at Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth, TX on Thursday, March 31st for the release of his brand new American Lager beer.

This will be El Segundo Brewing company’s second Steve Austin beer following the popular Broken Skull IPA.

According to BrokenSkullBeer.com, “This beer is our take on the classic American Lager. Made for the working man and woman, this beer is brewed with the finest American-grown barley and hops and is the ultimate reward for a hard days work. Coming in at 4.8%, this beer goes down easier than a 3-day weekend.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cac66idPtFW/

Steve Austin is rumored to be coming out of retirement to wrestle Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38. Austin has been involved with some of the promotional material for the event, but WWE has yet to confirm he will be there.

It remains to be seen if this actually happens, but now we know Austin will be in town that weekend.

Kevin Owens has been “stirring the pot” and getting people excited about the prospect of Austin wrestling again. In recent weeks, Owens has been dropping hints that he may in fact be having a confrontation with Steve Austin soon.

Owens has been talking trash about Austin’s favorite beverage (beer) and his hometown, Victoria Texas. More on that below.

Mick Foley on Cesaro Leaving WWE: Their Loss is Pro Wrestling’s Gain

Mic Foley is speaking out about Cesaro leaving WWE. Foley has long advocated for the company to get behind the Swiss Superman, as seen below.

Cesaro has received occasional pushes during his 11 years with WWE. He’s won championships and even main-evented a pay-per-view last year. However, many feel WWE never truly believed he could be a featured player like John Cena, Randy Orton or Roman Reigns.

On Friday, Foley released a video statement addressing Cesaro’s time with WWE and his future. Foley says he’s disappointed. He’s been a fan of Cesaro since his early days on the independent scene. He thinks Cesaro can work anywhere in the world and tear down the house working all different styles of wrestling.

Mick Foley called the 41-year old grappler “one of the greatest workers of his generation” who can and will be a world champion in the future.

“WWE’s loss is going to be professional wrestling’s gain”

– Mick Foley

Watch Mick Foley’s video statement about Cesaro’s WWE release:

Mick Foley Begs for Vince to Push Cesaro

This is far from the first time Mick Foley has advocated for Cesaro to be pushed as a main event player. During his appearance on Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Sessions, Foley literally begged Vince McMcMahon to give Cesaro a chance.

“Can I talk to the camera? Vince, please… you [Steve Austin] started in 88 or 89? 60 years of experience, we know a little something. We both proved Vince wrong, right? He had us set for this level and I’d say we exceeded that level. Trust us and give him the chance. Let him prove… I’ll get down on my knees, and I’ll beg… Vince, please. All we’re saying is give Cesaro a chance. I just believe in that guy wholeheartedly. Give him a chance.”

Steve Austin agreed with Foley’s assessment.

“Give him a chance, give him a gimmick. Just put a rocket ship on his back, no telling what the kid can do.”

Ronda Rousey Recalls Wanting to Curse Out WWE Fans

Ronda Rousey is opening up about her adversarial relationship with the WWE Universe.

On the latest episode of Ronda on the Road, Rousey spoke candidly about her departure from WWE in 2019 and her recent return.

Rousey made history at WrestleMania 35 when she, Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair became the first women to headline a WrestleMania. Unfortunately “shattered” a knuckle in her hand during the match. She was also extremely discouraged with WWE fans

“Everyone was booing me out of the stadium,” Rousey recalls. “I was just like, man, fuck these people, I can’t wait to go home.”

She added, “When I left WWE, I had been getting booed out of the stadium, like, every day for months.”

“Do I stay true to myself and tell them to go fuck themselves?”

– Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey has portrayed a babyface character for the majority of her time in WWE. However, she’s found it difficult to play the hero when fans have rejected her so forcefully.

“I think one of the most uncomfortable and disingenuous I’ve ever felt was when I had to be a babyface and the crowd was being hostile towards me and I couldn’t just tell them exactly what I fucking felt,” she said.

“I was stuck between, do I stay true to myself and tell them to go fuck themselves, or do I, you know, respect Vince who has done so much for me, and not go against what he wants me to do?”

When she’s had the chance to act like a heel, she’s loved it, because she could finally be herself.

Advice from Paul Heyman & Vince McMahon

Despite some unpleasantness, she really missed wrestling during her time away. She wanted to return, but knew fans might still harbor some animosity towards her.

When Rousey returned at the Royal Rumble, she admits she was “super defensive.” At Raw after the Rumble, she was ready for fans to troll her into oblivion. She expected them to heckle her and bring signs with hurtful messages directed at her.

During her promo at the post-Rumble Raw, Ronda Rousey seemed agitated. Backstage after her segment, Paul Heyman pulled her aside and told her Vince McMahon was going to tell her one thing: she has to smile. She met with Vince and thats exactly what he said. “That was fantastic, you just need to smile.”

She told Vince the fans were booing her out of the building toward the end of her first run. Vince told her, “Yeah, but they’ve forgiven you for that.” She said she hasn’t forgiven the fans yet, but Vince told her it’s not about her, it’s about the fans.

She’s taken these words to heart and now has a more-balanced outlook on her relationship with WWE fans.

Ronda Rousey will challenge Charlotte Flair for the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 38.

Watch Ronda Rousey speak about her WWE return on the latest episode of her Ronda on the Road series:

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any of the transcribed quotes in this article

Owen Hart “King of Harts” AEW T-Shirt Now On Sale

All Elite Wrestling’s first merchandise featuring Owen Hart is now on sale.

The “King of Harts” t-shirt is available for $24.99 at ShopAEW.com.

Owen Hart T-Shirt

The t-shirt is part of AEW’s partnership with the Owen Hart Foundation.

The primary focus of this working relationship will be the Owen Hart Foundation Men’s and Women’s Tournaments. The participants have yet to be announced, but we know the finals of the two tournaments will take place at AEW Double or Nothing in May.

Dr. Martha Hart, Owen Hart’s widow, will be on hand to present trophies to the winners.

Tony Khan Hopes to Drop His Major Announcement on AEW Dynamite

Tony Khan hopes to make his major announcement next week on AEW Dynamite.

Earlier this month, the AEW President began hyping something “massive” that he wasn’t able to reveal just yet.

Khan appeared on Friday’s edition of Busted Open Radio and provided some new details about what we can expect. He’s been working overtime behind the scenes to get everything in place and hopes to let the cat out of the bag next week.

“I am going to tell everyone right now, you definitely will not want to miss Wednesday night Dynamite next week,” said Khan.

“I promise you guys right now, I have a huge announcement coming and nobody knows what it is. It’s going to be something very important in the wrestling business.”

Khan previously compared the magnitude of this announcement to The First Dance, which turned out to be CM Punk joining AEW. However, Khan clarified that next week’s announcement is not “just one particular piece of talent.”

TK is setting high expectations, but he does have a track record of delivering on things like this.

Some fans have speculated that AEW will announce a formal working relationship with New Japan Pro Wrestling, a “super show” featuring talent from multiple promotions or the purchase of Ring of Honor.

Listen to Tony Khan tease his big announcement on Busted Open Radio, courtesy of our friends at the Putting You Over podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbwlR11QTus