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Backstage Update on Triple H Potentially Bringing CM Punk Back to WWE

CM Punk and All Elite Wrestling are reportedly about to go their separate ways.

The 44-year-old returned to professional wrestling last year on Rampage: The First Dance. AEW sold out the United Center in Chicago on a rumor that CM Punk would be there and the crowd absolutely erupted when he arrived.

A year later, CM Punk appears to be on the way out of All Elite Wrestling following the brawl with The Elite at the All Out media scrum. The Elite are reportedly on their way back to the promotion.

  • CM Punk Probably Won’t Return to AEW
AEW Negotiating to Buy Out CM Punk’s Contract (Report)

Update on how Triple H Feels About Bringing CM Punk Back to WWE

WrestleVotes recently spoke to GiveMeSport and provided an update on how Triple H feels about bringing CM Punk back to WWE. It was previously reported that The Game was open to bringing the former AEW Champion back to the company but likely not on a full-time deal.

During the interview, WrestleVotes revealed that Triple H wanted nothing to do with CM Punk, and even less to do with the person (Phil Brooks) in July.

I was told, I mean, pretty straightforward, that Triple H wants nothing to do with CM Punk, and even less to do with Phil Brooks. Well, that’s what I was told and that was July.

However, WrestleVotes claims that The Game’s stance on CM Punk has “softened” recently but animosity between the two still remains.

I did ask over the last couple of days, and it has softened a little bit from what I understand. I still think there’s animosity, I still think there’s a lot of pieces that need to be picked up between the two of them specifically. But Hunter, learned from Vince [McMahon] and Vince made amends with everybody.

WrestleVotes added that it is “ridiculous” to say that the door is closed for Punk to return to the company, especially in the ‘war’ that is happening right now between the promotions.

H/T: GiveMeSport

Posted October 26th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

3 Ways Jon Moxley Saved AEW This Year

Jon Moxley has been the MVP for All Elite Wrestling in 2022. The company has gone through unprecedented drama this year but Moxley has always been the constant. He has formed a connection with AEW fans and has signed a new deal that will ensure he’s with the promotion for years to come.

  • 5 Reasons Jon Moxley is AEW’s MVP in 2022

Here are three ways Jon Moxley saved AEW this year:

The Constant

All Elite Wrestling has been through it this year. At AEW All Out, the company crowned a new AEW World Champion in CM Punk and the inaugural Trios Champions in Kenny Omega and The Elite. They were all stripped of the titles on the following Dynamite.

AEW President Tony Khan was put in an impossible position during the AEW All Out media scrum. AEW World Champion CM Punk sat down directly beside Tony and went on a rant that insulted the company and several of its top stars. Tony was left to do nothing besides take a sip of his coffee and hope that Punk eventually stopped talking.

Jon Moxley had just lost the AEW World Championship to CM Punk at the PPV. He was set to go on a vacation but then Brawl Out happened. The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega went into CM Punk’s locker room and a brouhaha erupted.

Moxley became AEW World Champion once again because CM Punk couldn’t get it done. Jon was the AEW Interim Champion during CM Punk’s injury and is now carrying the ball after Punk dropped it. CM Punk is a two-time AEW World Champion without making a single title defense. Jon will make another title defense tonight on Dynamite.

The Promo

Wrestling fans were ecstatic when Jon Moxley arrived in All Elite Wrestling at Double or Nothing 2019. He made his way to the ring through the crowd and confronted Chris Jericho. Moxley planted Jericho with the Paradigm Shift and then battled with former AEW World Champion Kenny Omega.

If you take a step back now, Moxley’s debut remains the most important for AEW. Bryan Danielson is popular but hasn’t connected with AEW fans as much as Jon Moxley. Most of the other ex-WWE signings get a huge pop for their debut then quickly fritter away. Moxley has not only stuck around, he’s made it to the top of the company and isn’t going anywhere.

Jon cut quite possibly the best promo of his career on the Dynamite following All Out. AEW President Tony Khan had just been booed by AEW fans as he awkwardly announced that Punk and The Elite were being stripped of their titles. MJF had just hoodwinked the Buffalo crowd by wearing a Bills jersey and pretending he was their friend.

Mox made his way to the ring and told Maxwell that this was not the time. He added that MJF’s theme music sucks before delivering the promo that AEW fans needed to hear. Moxley stated that winners always want the ball when the game is on the line and went on to defeat Bryan Danielson at Dynamite: Grand Slam to once again become AEW World Champion.

The Future

The most important thing Jon Moxley has done for AEW this year is provide them with a foundation. AEW has seen an absurd amount of drama this year, whether it be Sammy Guevara, Thunder Rosa, CM Punk, Andrade El Idolo, etc. It has been never-ending this year.

Moxley inked a five-year contract extension with the promotion. The AEW World Champion is sticking around for a long time. His wife, Renee Paquette (formerly Renee Young in WWE) also recently signed with the promotion.

Details on Jon Moxley’s 5-Year AEW Contract Extension

Jon’s new contract also expands his responsibilities to include coaching and mentoring younger talent. The 36-year-old might not be everyone’s cup of tea but there is no denying that he puts in the work.

Moxley has performed in the independent scene during his time in All Elite Wrestling and was the GCW Champion up until recently. Jon’s new contract states that he will work exclusively for AEW and its international partners, including NJPW. Less time on the indies means more time for Moxley to devote to helping AEW.

MJF will challenge Jon Moxley for the AEW World Championship at Full Gear. It was clearly supposed to be CM Punk in this spot, as Maxwell confronted the former champion at the conclusion of the All Out PPV.

However, the brawl at the media scrum forced All Elite Wrestling to change course and revert back to the man that has been there all along. Jon Moxley now has the task of helping MJF not just become a bigger star, but become the face of AEW. Moxley’s track record in AEW suggests that Tony Khan made the right call by making him champion once again and Jon will deliver at the PPV on November 19th.

Posted October 26th, 2022 in Features. Tagged: .

Kofi Kingston Names His WarGames ‘Dream Team’ for WWE Survivor Series

This year’s WWE Survivor Series premium live event will feature a special WarGames theme, with men’s and women’s double-cage matches set to headline the event. This is a departure from recent years, which saw a contrived ‘brand supremacy’ format involving the Superstars from Raw, SmackDown and NXT competing.

Triple H recently commented on the changes coming to Survivor Series:

“The tradition of the Survivor Series has ebbed and flowed and changed slightly over time, but this will be similar to that,” he said in a press release. “This will not be Raw versus SmackDown. It will be much more story-line driven. I still look at it as a traditional component of Survivor Series in there because it’s large teams of people competing. We just upped the ante a little bit with WarGames and made it evolve.”

Kofi Kingston’s WarGames Dream Team

Former WWE Champion Kofi Kingston recently spoke with Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston and named his ideal partners in a hypothetical WarGames match. Unsurprisingly, his New Day teammates (Big E & Xavier Woods) were included.

We have actually teamed up with Braun Strowman a couple of times and he is just amazing to be in the ring with.

I find him to be such a character. He lives such a crazy life. He lives in the woods, hunts boars, and so many awesome stories.

So even sometimes when we are like, Woods will be in there wrestling and we are on the apron, I’m just like man this dude is huge. He’s a force to be reckoned with.

I would put Braun on my team. Shoot, I’ll put Bray on my team too. I don’t know if he’s looking for a team but I’ll put Bray on there.

I don’t know if Orton is coming back, but I’ll put Randy on my team. The Viper and the experience factor.

You mentioned Carmelo (Hayes), I’d put him and Trick Williams on my team because I think they have got a lot of potential.

I’m excited to see what they bring to the table when they get to the, well I guess Carmelo is on the main roster, he’s been on Main Event a few times now.

WWE Survivor Series takes place Saturday, November 26th from Boston’s TD Garden.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Ten Count and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 26th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

NJPW Warns Karl Anderson Over Booking Conflict with WWE Crown Jewel

Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson recently returned to WWE to help AJ Styles in his battle with The Judgment Day.

Finn Balor had been trying to get The Phenomenal One to join the faction but AJ ultimately declined. The Judgment Day attacked Styles in response and The Good Brothers made their return.

WWE has announced that The OC will battle The Judgment Day in a 6-man tag team match at Crown Jewel on November 5th.

NJPW Warns Karl Anderson That They Will Vacate His Title If He Works Crown Jewel

Karl Anderson is the current NEVER Openweight Champion and was scheduled to defend the title on the same day against Hikuleo. Karl and Luke recently uploaded a video and said that they will not be at Battle Autumn. Gallows added that Anderson’s bookings must go through him and NJPW didn’t clear it with him.

New Japan Pro-Wrestling has responded today with a statement that refutes the claims made above by Luke Gallows. NJPW stated that they booked the match through the proper channels with Karl Anderson and the match was announced on October 4th. NJPW added that Karl will have to vacate and return the NEVER Openweight Championship if he does not compete in the match he was scheduled for.

You can read the entire statement below:

Thank you for supporting New Japan Pro-Wrestling. 

Early morning Japan time on October 20, NEVER Openweight Champion Karl Anderson posted a video on social media indicating that he would not be making his advertised commitment on November 5 in Osaka. 

NJPW had announced Anderson’s match with Hikuleo for the NEVER Openweight Championship on October 4. Despite comments from Doc Gallows to the contrary in Anderson’s video, the booking was made through the appropriate channels, and with Anderson’s expressed approval.

However, after the match’s announcement, both Gallows and Anderson would appear on the October 10 edition of WWE’s “Monday Night Raw” broadcast. This led to WWE announcing a match featuring both men for their Saudi Arabia event on November 5, in direct conflict with Anderson’s prior commitment.

NJPW has for the past several days attempted to negotiate with Anderson, but has not been met with a response. Should Anderson decide to renege on his scheduled championship match, he will be required to vacate the NEVER Openweight Championship and return the title belt to NJPW immediately. 

New Japan Pro-Wrestling holds its champions to the highest standards of professionalism, and sincerely apologizes to fans for any disappointment or inconvenience caused by this matter. 

Posted October 26th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Britt Baker Comments on Thunder Rosa’s Hiatus from AEW: “I Was at Work Every Week”

Britt Baker has shared her thoughts on AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa’s hiatus from the company.

Thunder Rosa was scheduled to defend the AEW Women’s Championship against Toni Storm at the now infamous All Out PPV. She announced on the Dynamite before the PPV that she was pulling out of the match due to injury in a backstage interview.

Toni Storm is the current AEW Interim Women’s Champion and has taken some shots at the situation surrounding Thunder Rosa. She said the following to Bleacher Report:

I guess my first thing would be to beat Thunder Rosa and stop this interim nonsense. That’s kind of what’s been bothering me. I think that’s been bothering a lot of people because she’s still calling herself the AEW women’s world champion and I’m the one here every week doing the work.

Thunder Rosa responded on Busted Open Radio and said she will hopefully be returning to AEW in January. The AEW Women’s Champion added that she doesn’t book the show and it is not her problem what is decided backstage.

Thunder Rosa Responds to Toni Storm’s Comments About The AEW Women’s Championship

Britt Baker Comments on Thunder Rosa

Former AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker recently spoke with Swerve Strickland on The Swerve City podcast and commented on not missing time from All Elite Wrestling while out with an injury. Britt noted that she was at TV every week because she wanted to be there.

I never missed any episodes of TV, with every like broken bone and injury. I’m just sayin’.

What bone have I not broken at this point? My leg, my nose twice now, my wrist, the concussion, and I was at work every week because that is where I wanted to be.

I had my nose surgery on a Monday, Dynamite was on a Wednesday, and I was there cutting a promo. Because I wanted to be.

Tony (Khan) is the most caring and wonderful guy. But I was like this is an opportunity, I’m going to have a black eye, I’m sick in the head and thought I’m going to look cool.

Britt added during the podcast that they don’t get along but complimented Thunder Rosa for upping her game.

It is kind of like The Batman and Joker, like one needs the other for the success story to happen.

We don’t like each other. There’s always tension but that tension makes good TV. So, I still think it’s my division.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit The Swerve City podcast and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in AEW, News. Tagged: , .

CM Punk Breaks Silence on Social Media for First Time Since Fight at AEW All Out

Former AEW World Champion CM Punk has reemerged on social media for the first time since the All Out PPV.

CM Punk captured the AEW World Championship from Jon Moxley at the All Out PPV on September 4th. He was injured during the match and would likely have had to relinquish the title regardless.

However, the 44-year-old opted to go on a rant during the media scrum following the PPV. Despite just winning the title, CM Punk wanted to discuss his issues with The Elite, Colt Cabana, and Hangman Page while AEW President Tony Khan was seated directly beside him.

The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega reportedly went to CM Punk’s locker room following the rant and a brawl broke out. Ace Steel was released from the company and AEW is reportedly in negotiations for a contract buyout with the former champion.

CM Punk was stripped of the AEW World Championship on the Dynamite following All Out. He is a two-time AEW World Champion without defending the title a single time.

The Elite were stripped of their Trios Championships and have not appeared on AEW TV since the PPV.

AEW Negotiating to Buy Out CM Punk’s Contract (Report)

CM Punk Hypes AJ Mendes’ New Film

CM Punk’s wife, AJ Mendes (FKA as AJ Lee in WWE), co-wrote the film ‘Blade of the 47 Ronin’ which was released today on Netflix. The 44-year-old posted a story on Instagram and told fans to go check out the film.

cm punk social media

‘Blade of 47 Ronin’ is a sequel to the 2013 film ’47 Ronin’ starring Keanu Reeves. The story takes place 300 years after the original film and is about modern-day Samurai clans that exist in complete secrecy. You can check out a trailer for the film below.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in AEW, News. Tagged: .

The Boogeyman Set to Return to WWE Programming This Week

The Boogeyman is set to make his long-awaited WWE return this week as Halloween approaches.

He has been very active on social media as of late with fans trying to return to the company and now it appears that The Boogeyman has gotten his wish. The Boogeyman will appear on WWE programming this week a few days before Halloween.

The Boogeyman Will Return to WWE on The Bump

WWE legend The Boogeyman will make his triumphant return to the company tomorrow at 1 PM. The Boogeyman will join stars Liv Morgan and Shotzi on WWE’s The Bump tomorrow afternoon. It will be interesting to see if he makes an appearance on RAW or SmackDown as well.

The Boogeyman is currently on a legends contract with the company but has made it known that he wants to return to television on social media. He recently posted on Twitter that he wants to face Bray Wyatt following his return at the Extreme Rules PLE.

Shotzi hosted the NXT Halloween Havoc over the weekend and recently teamed up with Raquel Rodriguez to battle Damage CTRL. The team fell short of capturing the Women’s Tag Team Championships.

Liv Morgan lost the SmackDown Women’s Championship to Ronda Rousey in an Extreme Rules match at the Premium Live Event. Since losing the title, Liv’s attitude has completely changed. The 28-year-old attacked Sonya Deville backstage and Powerbombed her through a table on a recent episode of SmackDown. She went on to defeat Sonya in a singles match last week on the blue brand and hit her with a Superplex onto a stack of chairs after the match.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

WWE Stars Honor The Ultimate Warrior on 35th Anniversary of His Debut

The Ultimate Warrior debuted in WWE 35 years ago today. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014 and tragically passed away shortly after. Ultimate Warrior died at the age of 54 on April 8, 2014. WWE has since created the Warrior Award in his honor. Shad Gaspard was the recipient of this year’s Warrior Award.

WWE uploaded a video today featuring several of today’s most popular superstars discussing their favorite moments of The Ultimate Warrior’s career to pay tribute to the wrestling legend on the anniversary of his debut. He debuted in WWE 35 years ago and defeated Terry Gibbs.

Drew McIntyre said that WrestleMania VII was his favorite moment of The Ultimate Warrior’s career and claimed to have worn out the VHS tape of the event watching it with his brother growing up. The Ultimate Warrior defeated Randy Savage at the event.

The Miz stated that Ultimate Warrior was his favorite wrestler growing up. The Miz joked that his favorite “moment” of the Hall of Famer’s career was whenever he cut a promo because you couldn’t really understand what he said. The Miz added that he has “load the spaceship with the rocket fuel” embedded in his head.

Sheamus revealed that his favorite Ultimate Warrior moment was at SummerSlam 1988. The Ultimate Warrior demolished The Honky Tonk Man in quick fashion at the event. The Celtic Warrior added that it is moments like that one that will stick in fans’ heads forever.

Tamina Snuka told a story of The Ultimate Warrior signing a jacket for her when she was younger and her dad gave it to her on Christmas. Natalya selected his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame as her favorite moment from his career.

Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson also discussed how The Ultimate Warrior influenced their career. Gallows picked Warrior’s return at WrestleMania 8 as his favorite moment. You can check out the video presented by Mattel below.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Ric Flair Says He Would Love to Return to WWE

Ric Flair wrestled his last match during WWE SummerSlam weekend in Nashville.

The 73-year-old teamed up with his son-in-law, Andrade El Idolo, to defeat AEW star Jay Lethal and wrestling legend Jeff Jarrett in a tag team match.

Ric Flair’s Last Match was an event produced by Conrad Thompson and Jim Crockett Promotions and it was very successful. The event sold out the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, drawing 6.800 fans with a live gate of $448,402.

Ric Flair’s Last Match also brought in estimated 20-25k viewers on FITE and is the 2nd highest-grossing North American independent professional wrestling event behind All In in 2018.

Ric Flair on a Potential Return to WWE

The Nature Boy spoke about a potential return to WWE recently on his To Be The Man podcast. Ric said that he would “love to return to the company and do stuff with them” but did not disclose what his return would entail.

He also discussed his upcoming documentary and claimed that it was going to be better than the 30 for 30 produced by ESPN.

This will be better than my 30 for 30 on ESPN because I made them promise me that whatever I said, they wouldn’t edit. I’m not going to do something that’s going to be edited again.

“I was passionate and I expressed everything that I thought was good or bad in my life. I discussed my personal life, my personal problems, family problems, wrestling problems, issues with people that I have had.

I just answered questions and I answered them as truthfully as I could.

H/T: F4WOnline

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

WWE Legend Praises Logan Paul: “I Think This Guy is Going to do Very Well”

Logan Paul sent a message to Roman Reigns on last week’s episode of WWE SmackDown.

The 27-year-old made his way to the ring at the end of SmackDown for a promo. He suggested that he was going to shock the world and defeat Roman Reigns at Crown Jewel to capture the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Honorary Uce Sami Zayn was on the phone with Roman Reigns earlier on the show and was instructed to inform The Bloodline not to confront Logan Paul. Sami told The Bloodline not to do so but Jey Uso didn’t listen. Jey made his way to the ring and Logan knocked him out with one punch.

Jim Cornette Praises Logan Paul

Wrestling legend Jim Cornette had high praise for Logan Paul following his segment on last week’s episode of SmackDown. Speaking on the Jim Cornette Experience, the legendary manager praised Logan Paul for his promo ability and for taking the business seriously.

This guy can talk. He’s taking the business more seriously than the guys that are in it. He’s constructed, whether it is his story or whether they gave it to him and he’s fleshed it out, about nobody takes him seriously.

They don’t think he’s going to beat Roman Reigns but what if he gets one lucky shot? They said he couldn’t do this, they said he couldn’t do that and look where he is now.

He seems serious and motivated. And he’s got personality. It is not just scripted bullsh** or a monotone uninteresting delivery like Ronda Rousey has been, where she’s just like in a trance and doesn’t give a sh**.

I think this guy is going to do very well. Also, we’ve seen before he takes the physical part seriously too and he’s been training.

Cornette added that he is more offended by wrestlers like Orange Cassidy or Joey Janela than celebrities such as Logan Paul trying their hand in the wrestling business.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit The Jim Cornette Experience and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Former WWE Champion Very Impressed with Logan Paul

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Former WWE Champion Very Impressed with Logan Paul

Former WWE Champion Kofi Kingston is very impressed with Logan Paul’s in-ring performances thus far, and thinks Paul will fare well in his upcoming title match.

Roman Reigns is scheduled to defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Paul next month at WWE Crown Jewel.

The Tribal Chief most recently defeated Drew McIntyre at WWE Clash at the Castle in September to retain the title. Logan Paul enters the match as a heavy underdog as the popular YouTuber has only had two matches in his career.

He teamed with The Miz at WrestleMania to defeat The Mysterios and then defeated The A-Lister in a singles match at SummerSlam. Logan Paul was recently spotted training with a WWE Hall of Famer and Roman reacted to the photos.

Roman Reigns Reacts to Logan Paul Training with WWE Legend: “Hopefully He’s Training with God Next Week”

Kofi Kingston Picks The Winner Of The Title Match At Crown Jewel

Kingston recently spoke with Steve Fall for NBC Boston’s The Ten Count. Kingston is looking forward to Reigns vs, Paul and gave his pick for who will leave Crown Jewel as champion.

Look man, I know I’ve said on a lot of different interviews that I’m very impressed with the way that Logan Paul’s been able to like naturally be so good.

Not even good, but like kind of amazing in the ring these past couple of matches that he’s had.

You’re not supposed to be that good. You’re not supposed to be able to pick it up that fast, from promos, all the way to in-ring work, moves, and like attitude. Making things look realistic and believing it, you’re not supposed to be that good.

I love the way he’s brought just amazing energy to the WWE like you can’t take your eyes off him. It’s amazing. Having said that, I’ve got to go with Roman Reigns.

I mean, you’re not the Undisputed WWE World Heavyweight Champion for almost two years now without being very good.

His progression has been phenomenal. Seeing him develop in terms of character all the way from The Shield to what he is now, it’s remarkable, and just carrying the industry right now.

Realistically, I feel like Roman should kind of wipe the floor with him. But, Logan Paul, he’s surprised me the past couple of matches. So, I’m going to watch like everybody else and see what’s what.

WWE Crown Jewel takes place Saturday, November 5 at 12pm ET / 9am PT from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event streams live exclusively on Peacock in the U.S. and on WWE Network internationally.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Ten Count with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

Watch: Repackaged WWE Superstar Interferes in RAW Main Event

It appears that Nikki A.S.H. is no more and Nikki Cross is back in WWE.

Bayley squared off against Bianca Belair in the main event of tonight’s episode of WWE RAW. The EST defeated The Role Model in a Ladder match to retain the RAW Women’s Championship at Extreme Rules and tonight’s bout was a non-title match.

Women’s Tag Team Champions Dakota Kai and IYO SKY were ringside for the match to root on the leader of Damage CTRL. Bayley knocked the RAW Women’s Champion out of the ring and distracted the referee as Dakota and IYO beat Bianca down.

A mystery woman then flew off of the top turnbuckle and leveled the referee, Kai, and SKY with a Crossbody. Back in the ring, Belair connected with the KOD but there was no referee for the cover.

Nikki Cross then got into the ring and planted Belair with a Fisherman’s Neckbreaker. Bayley capitalized on the attack and covered Belair for the pinfall victory. After the bell, Nikki Cross attacked Bayley and stood tall in the ring as the crowd booed to close the show.

When was the last time Nikki was on WWE TV?

Nikki A.S.H. teased a character change on September 26th following her loss to Candice LeRae on RAW. She was scheduled to battle her former tag team partner, Doudrop, but Candice was revealed as a surprise opponent. Candice picked up the victory in her debut match on the main roster and Nikki took off her mask in frustration after the match.

She won the Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder match last year and cashed in on Charlotte Flair to win the RAW Women’s Championship. Nikki has also been in tag teams with Alexa Bliss and Rhea Ripley on the main roster. She debuted on the November 6, 2018, episode of SmackDown against Becky Lynch. The former NXT faction SAniTY accompanied her to the entrance ramp.

8 Takeaways From WWE RAW (10/24): Bianca Belair vs. Bayley, JBL & Baron Corbin, The Judgment Day

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

“False Advertising!” – WWE Star Takes Shot at Braun Strowman Ahead of Crown Jewel

Omos demolished four enhancement talents tonight on WWE RAW in dominant fashion.

The Nigerian Giant is scheduled to battle Braun Strowman in a couple of weeks at WWE Crown Jewel. The Premium Live Event will air from Mrsool Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Braun recently returned to WWE after being released by the company last year. He briefly spent some time in EC3’s Control Your Narrative promotion before re-signing with the company following Triple H’s rise in power. Strowman refers to himself as The Monster of All Monsters but is visibly several inches shorter than Omos.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

MVP Mocks Braun Strowman

Ahead of their matchup at Crown Jewel, WWE’s official Twitter account sent out an advertisement for the matchup between Braun Strowman and Omos at the Premium Live Event.

MVP is currently the manager of Omos and continues to hype the Nigerian Giant as a challenge that Braun Strowman has never dealt with before.

The 48-year-old took to Twitter and mocked Braun Strowman ahead of the Premium Live Event. MVP noted that the image has Strowman and Omos as the same height when Braun is clearly shorter.

This is FALSE ADVERTISING!!! Braun is MUCH shorter!

The Monster of All Monsters and The Nigerian Giant have been battling at WWE Live Events ahead of the big match on November 5th at Crown Jewel. A fan uploaded a confrontation between the two superstars at a house show on October 22nd and the video has already accumulated over 1.2 million views.

Omos and MVP attacked R-Truth after their match and Strowman made the save. Braun confronted the Nigerian Giant and knocked him out of the ring with a thunderous Clothesline. You can check out the full confrontation in the video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CurGsJ0n2Wk
8 Takeaways From WWE RAW (10/24): Bianca Belair vs. Bayley, JBL & Baron Corbin, The Judgment Day

Posted October 25th, 2022 in News. Tagged: .

Former WWE Superstar Reacts to AJ Styles Name Dropping Him on RAW

The Judgment Day kicked off this week’s episode of WWE RAW and cut a promo on The OC ahead of their match at Crown Jewel next month.

Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson recently returned to the company after two years away. Finn Balor had been trying to recruit AJ Styles to The Judgment Day but The Phenomenal One declined.

The Judgment Day attacked Styles but Gallows and Anderson made the save. WWE has announced that The OC will battle The Judgment Day in a 6-man tag team match at WWE Crown Jewel.

James Ellsworth Reacts to AJ Styles Referencing Him on WWE RAW

During The Judgment Day’s promo, Dominik Mysterio claimed that he was this generation’s Eddie Guerrero. Dominik picked up a victory over AJ Styles last week after Rhea Ripley interfered.

After the comment by Dominik, The OC interrupted and made their way to the entrance ramp. AJ Styles joked that Dominik is more like this generation’s James Ellsworth. Styles and Ellsworth had a humorous rivalry along with Dean Ambrose (Jon Moxley) several years ago.

James Ellsworth took to Twitter to upload a video of him spitting out a beer after AJ referenced him on RAW. Ellsworth defeated AJ Styles multiple times on SmackDown in 2016 thanks to interference by Dean Ambrose. He was released from WWE in November 2017.

Karl Anderson went on to battle Finn Balor in a singles match to begin RAW. Balor picked up the victory after Rhea interfered in the match again. Rhea also hit Luke Gallows with a Body Slam during the match in an awesome moment.

Posted October 25th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

8 Takeaways From WWE RAW (10/24): Bianca Belair vs. Bayley, JBL & Baron Corbin, The Judgment Day

WWE RAW aired live this week from the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Bianca Belair battled Bayley in a non-title match in this week’s main event.

RAW Results

  • Finn Balor def. Karl Anderson
  • R-Truth def. The Miz
  • Austin Theory def. Mustafa Ali
  • Omos def. four enhancement talent
  • Elias def. Chad Gable
  • Baron Corbin def. Johnny Gargano
  • Bayley def. Bianca Belair in a non-title match

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Rhea Ripley Helped Finn Balor Pick Up A Win

The Judgment Day kicked off this week’s episode of WWE RAW. Rhea Ripley insulted the crowd and claimed that Judgment Day runs Monday Night RAW. Ripley claimed that Dominik Mysterio is all man and Balor boasted about Dominik’s victory over AJ Styles last week.

Damian Priest claimed that Dominik Mysterio is the greatest luchador on the planet. The crowd booed as Dominik grabbed the microphone. Dom claimed that he proved all his haters wrong last week when he beat AJ Styles.

The OC (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, and Karl Anderson) interrupted and made their way to the entrance ramp. Styles compared Dominik to James Ellsworth before The OC got into the ring. The two teams stared at each other before Finn Balor spoke up. Finn claimed that AJ Styles is hiding in “The Club (Bulletclub)” that he built. Karl Anderson and Finn Balor then battled in a singles match.

Balor and Anderson locked up to start off the action. Finn connected with a shoulder tackle but Anderson battled back. Karl hit a Dropkick and Finn retreated out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Anderson connected with a Dropkick and focused his attack on Balor’s knee. Finn battled back and unloaded some punches in the corner of the ring. Anderson escaped and planted Balor with a Powerbomb for a near fall. Karl connected with a leaping Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Balor kicked out at two.

Finn Balor climbed to the top rope but Anderson tripped him up. Karl planted Balor with a Superplex but Dominik hopped on the ring apron for a distraction. AJ Styles tripped Dominik up but Damian launched The Phenomenal One over the barricade. Gallows leveled Damian Priest but Rhea shoved him into the ring post.

Ripley then planted Gallows with a Body Slam. Back in the ring, Rhea hit Anderson with a low blow and Balor covered Anderson for the pinfall victory. The OC will battle The Judgment Day at WWE Crown Jewel in a 6-man tag team match. Luke Gallows later said that he has a solution for fighting Rhea Ripley in a backstage segment.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Johnny Gargano Tricked The Miz

The Miz spoke about Dexter Lumis stalking him on WWE RAW as the crowd chanted “what!”. Miz claimed that Dexter Lumis was jealous that he chose Tommaso Ciampa as his protege, which is why he is bothering him. The A-Lister held up a missing poster for Tommaso Ciampa.

Johnny Gargano interrupted and said that The Miz knows Ciampa is injured. Gargano brought a whistle to the ring and threatened to blow it if Miz lies again. R-Truth joined the party and The Miz flipped out. R-Truth challenged Miz to a match and The A-Lister accepted.

The Miz started off the match in control and stomped on Truth in the corner. R-Truth hit an Atomic Drop but Miz responded with a big boot. A masked man showed up behind the barricade and distracted The Miz. R-Truth capitalized and rolled Miz up for the pinfall victory. It was then revealed to be Johnny Gargano and he mocked Miz from the crowd.

Damage CTRL Confronted Candice LeRae

Cathy Kelley interviewed Candice LeRae this week on RAW. Candice noted it has been crazy lately and that she has so much support from Alexa Bliss, Bianca Belair, and Asuka. Damage CTRL interrupted and Bayley boasted about putting Alexa Bliss, Asuka, and Becky Lynch on the shelf. LeRae said IYO is still untrustworthy, Dakota is still spiteful, and Bayley is still not RAW Women’s Champion. Bayley shoved the camera over and Damage CTRL attacked.

Theory def. Mustafa Ali, Seth Rollins Attacked

Austin Theory battled Mustafa Ali tonight on WWE RAW. United States Champion Seth Rollins joined commentary for the match. Austin Theory shoved Mustafa down to the canvas to start off the action. Theory connected with a shoulder tackle and taunted Ali before the two locked up again in the middle of the ring. Austin controlled the action early and sent Ali to the outside as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Austin Theory took a selfie and it backfired. Mustafa hit him with a Dropkick and followed it up with a Senton. Ali connected with a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Theory kicked out at two.

Ali connected with a Codebreaker and climbed to the top turnbuckle. Seth Rollins hopped in the ring for a distraction and Theory tripped Ali up. Austin connected with the A-Town Down for the pinfall victory. Seth Rollins posed with Austin after the match before attacking Mustafa Ali.

Baron Corbin def. Johnny Gargano

Johnny Gargano bumped into Baron Corbin and JBL. John told Gargano to introduce himself and he did so. Gargano poked fun at JBL and called him “MC Hammer pants”. Johnny added that Corbin is boring and it led to a singles match later on the show.

JBL hyped up Corbin before the match and mocked the crowd. Gargano knocked Corbin out of the ring and hit him with a dive through the ropes. Corbin battled back and leveled Johnny with right hand before bashing him into the ring post. Johnny went for a Crossbody but Corbin caught him. Baron connected with a slam on top of the announce table and gave JBL a high five as RAW went to a commercial break.

Gargano connected with a Running Bulldog and fired up the crowd. Corbin responded with an elbow to the face but Johnny shrugged it off and hit a Slingshot Spear for a near fall. Gargano went for a Crossbody but Corbin caught him. Baron hit a Fallaway Slam and taunted Gargano.

Corbin followed it up with Deep Six and went for the cover but Gargano kicked out at two. Baron perched Gargano up on the top turnbuckle and punched him in the face. Corbin cleared off the announce table but wound up running himself into the steel steps. Gargano took JBL’s cowboy hat and brought it into the ring. JBL tripped Gargano up and Corbin capitalized with the End of Days for the pinfall victory.

Omos Dominated

Omos defeated four enhancement talent tonight on RAW in dominant fashion. Omos will battle Braun Strowman at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th.

Elias def. Chad Gable

Elias battled Chad Gable tonight. Otis was ringside for the match. Gable and Elias went back and forth to start off the match. Elias went for a Suplex but Gable countered into a roll-up for a near fall. Gable knocked Elias out of the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Gable connected with a Suplex and then a Flying Headbutt for a near fall. Elias delivered a Clothesline and followed it up with a Splash in the corner. Otis distracted Elias and Gable capitalized with an Ankle Lock.

Gable escaped and connected with a slam for a two count. Gable went for a Moonsault but Elias countered with a knee strike for a two count. Elias sent Otis into the ring post and then hit Drift Away for the pinfall victory. After the match, Otis attacked Elias from behind and Alpha Academy beat him down. Matt Riddle rushed to the ring on his scooter and knocked Alpha Academy out of the ring. Riddle hit them both with a Moonsault before checking on Elias in the ring.

Nikki Cross Interfered In The Main Event

RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair battled Bayley tonight in the main event in a non-title match. Women’s Tag Team Champions Dakota Kai & IYO SKY of Damage CTRL accompanied Bayley to the ring for the match.

Bayley controlled the action early but Belair battled back with a Body Slam in the middle of the ring. The two stars locked up and Bianca connected with a shoulder tackle. Bianca flipped across the ring but The Role Model was ready and leveled The EST with a forearm strike for a two count.

Belair hit a Suplex and went for another one but Bayley blocked it. Bayley applied a Crossface in the middle of the ring but the champ countered into a Sidewalk Slam. Bianca knocked Bayley out of the ring and hit a Crossbody as RAW went to a commercial break.

The Role Model leveled Belair with a Clothesline for a two count when the red brand returned. Bayley taunted the crowd while unloading punches. The EST escaped and lifted Bayley up for the KOD but the challenger escaped.

Bayley targeted the champion’s arm and slammed her to the mat. Belair dodged an Elbow Drop and sent Bayley tumbling out of the ring. Back in the ring, Bianca connected with a Brainbuster and followed it up with a series of shoulder tackles. Belair unloaded some punches in the corner and then hit a Body Slam. The champ went for a Moonsault but Bayley got her knees up.

Belair escaped the Bayley to Belly and rolled The Role Model up for a near count. Bayley went for an Elbow Drop again but Bianca got her knees up. Belair hit the Moonsault but Bayley kicked out at two.

Bayley rolled out of the ring and Bianca chased after her. Bayley slammed Bianca into the barricade and planted her with a DDT on the floor as RAW went to the final commercial break of the night.

When RAW returned, Bayley went for the KOD but Belair escaped. Bianca then connected with the Bayley to Belly for a two count. Bayley dragged Belair out of the ring and launched her into the barricade.

Belair sent Bayley into the steel steps before the action returned to the ring. The two superstars traded strikes in the middle of the ring. Belair hit a Spinebuster and went for the cover but Bayley kicked out at two.

Bianca climbed to the top rope but IYO hopped on the apron for a distraction. Bayley capitalized with a Bayley to Belly off the middle turnbuckle for a near fall. Damage CTRL cleared off the announce table but Bianca battled back. Belair hit Bayley with a Powerbomb onto the table, the ring post, and the ring apron. IYO tackled Bianca into the table and Dakota followed it up with a kick to the face.

The referee saw that something had transpired and got out of the ring. Someone then hit them all with a Crossbody. Belair hit the KOD but the referee was knocked out. Nikki ASH/ Cross was revealed to the star that hit the Crossbody. She hit Belair with a Neckbreaker and Bayley capitalized with a cover for the pinfall victory. After the match, Nikki attacked Bayley as well as RAW went off the air.

Posted October 24th, 2022 in Results. Tagged: .

Kofi Kingston on How Winning The WWE Championship Established a “Sense of Hope” for Young Fans

Kofi Kingston captured the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 35 by defeating Daniel Bryan, now known in All Elite Wrestling as Bryan Danielson.

Kingston hit Bryan with the Trouble in Paradise for the pinfall victory. The veteran celebrated with the New Day in the ring as the crowd erupted. A video went viral featuring MVP and the tragically passed Shad Gaspard getting emotional following Kingston’s victory.

Speaking with Steve Fall of NBC Ten Count, a question was sent in by students for Kofi Kingston. He was asked if he felt his WWE character has impacted young African-American children and if he finds it a responsibility of his every time he’s in front of the camera. Kingston responded with

Absolutely. Being the first African-born WWE Champion impacted a lot of African-American children in ways, and really all children, but particularly African-American children because you didn’t really see African-born Superstars in championship roles.

And I mean main championship roles. It is something you didn’t see, and it is one thing to say like anything is possible because, in theory, anything is possible.

If you believe in yourself, you can be the one who breaks the ground and you can be the first person to do something.

But it is a whole other thing to say that anything is possible because it actually happened.

– Kofi Kingston

Kingston said that he was blown away by all the videos of him on social media after winning the WWE Championship. He still gets messages about it to this day.

“So we were in New Orleans, like me and my son walking in, and one of the security guards stopped me and talked to me about how impactful that moment was to him watching it as an adult.

You have all these videos of people watching it with their kids and it just really establishes a sense of hope, and belief that you can do whatever you want to do.”

Not the Typical WWE Champion

“By all standards, I shouldn’t be here. I’m not 6’8”, I’m not 300 pounds, and I don’t have a strapping chest.

As a matter of fact, I have pretty much all sternum. No muscle here. My legs are very skinny, I’m not as big as the other people on the roster.

When I was a kid and I told people that I wanted to be a WWE Superstar they laughed at me because I didn’t look the part.

Now, you fast forward all these years later, I’ve been able to have so many incredible accolades, so many awesome moments, I’ve had 22 different title reigns. This is all from a guy that wasn’t supposed to be here.”

Watch Kofi Kingston WWE Championship Celebration:

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Ten Count with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 24th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

“I Need to Beat You Tonight” – Bayley Sends Warning to Bianca Belair Ahead of Grudge Match on WWE RAW

Bianca Belair and Bayley have been involved in a rivalry in WWE since last year.

Bayley was training for her match against Bianca Belair at Money in the Bank 2021 when she tore her ACL. The Role Model returned at SummerSlam alongside IYO SKY and Dakota Kai. The trio is now known to WWE fans as Damage CTRL.

Dakota and IYO recently captured the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Bayley battled Bianca in a Ladder match at Extreme Rules but The EST was able to retain the RAW Women’s Championship. Their rivalry continues tonight on RAW in a non-title match.

Bayley & Bianca Belair Trade Words Ahead of Tonight’s Match on WWE RAW

The RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair and Bayley are set to battle tonight once again in a singles match. Bayley has not defeated Bianca in a singles match since 2020. The Role Model did get the pin on The Est during the 6-woman tag team match at Clash at the Castle last month.

Bayley posted on Instagram that tonight is the beginning of the end for the RAW Women’s Champion.

TONIGHT We’ve been through a lot together in these last couple of years and it’s been a journey. It’s been fun, annoying, tiresome, distracting, motivating, and some more annoying.

I’ve watched you grow from this young hopeful into a main eventer in what seemed almost over night.

But I know that wasn’t easy, because the lifestyle of a pro wrestler is far from easy. I’ve seen how dedicated you are to this company, I’ve seen you go out of your way for fans.

I’ve seen you not go home for weeks just to make the shows, I’ve seen you all over the country making appearances to make sure @wwe is represented the right way.

And for that, I thank you. But just know that all of those things are the EXACT reason I need to beat you tonight.

Nobody loves this company or business more than I do and I should be the one waving that WWE flag around the world, not you!!! This sh*t runs through my blood and I guarantee you have no idea what that feels like or how it fuels me.

So tonight when I beat you Bianca, it is the beginning of the end for you.
#raw

Belair took to Twitter and wondered if it was actually going to be a singles match or if Damage CTRL were going to interfere once again.

Soooo… is it Me vs. 1 of them?… or all 3 of them?… this time. Asking for a friend…

Posted October 24th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

Kofi Kingston Says WWE Could Introduce Trios Championships

Kofi Kingston is a former WWE Champion, four-time Intercontinental Champion, three-time US Champion, and thirteen-time tag team champion.

There are currently a lot of factions with three members in WWE. The Brawling Brutes, Imperium, Legado del Fantasma, New Day, etc.

Speaking with Steve Fall of NBC Ten Count, Kofi discussed the possibility of WWE introducing Trios Championships down the line.

Anything is possible, man. Like you said, there is a lot of trios going on, Sheamus and The Brawling Brutes, The Bloodline, New Day. We’ll see how E (Big E) does, he’s getting a lot better for those who are concerned.

He was actually rollerskating the other day and I’m like ‘oh my God is he okay?’. He’s coming along and he’s in great spirits. We’re just kind of taking it one day at a time with him.

But yeah, I think a Trios title would be interesting. It is obviously something that has never been done before in WWE. Who knows? You got to stay tuned and watch to find out!

Kofi Kingston on a Tag Team Match Headlining WrestleMania

During the interview on NBC Ten Count, it was pointed out that a tag team match has not headlined a WrestleMania since 1985. Kofi was asked if fans will ever see a tag team match main event a WrestleMania again and he said it was possible. Kingston added that The Usos would make the most sense as their opponent at WrestleMania.

Anything is possible, like I said. For example, Ronda Rousey being in a main event of WrestleMania. Who would have thought that would ever happen? Anything is possible, even like Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair main eventing the first night of WrestleMania.

Who would have ever thought that two women would be able to main event a WrestleMania? It is unheard of. I really enjoy the way that, especially now, WWE has done a great job over the past 8-9 years now of doing things that are completely just remarkable, and unheard of in the business.

The women’s revolution, having an all women’s PPV, the women having their own Royal Rumble is amazing and awesome.

So we are in a really special time right now in terms of wrestling. We are really doing things that are historical and groundbreaking, so a tag team match in the main event of WrestleMania is certainly not out of the cards.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Sports Boston and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 24th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Kofi Kingston Tells WWE Fans to Expect More Surprise Returns

WWE has undergone massive changes at the top of the company in 2022 and it has resulted in a completely new vision for the product.

Vince McMahon resigned in late July and was replaced by Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan as co-CEOs. The 77-year-old was being investigated by the company’s Board of Directors for alleged hush money payments to former female employees.

John Laurinaitis was dismissed from the company and replaced by Triple H as EVP of Talent Relations. The Game has since been named Chief Content Officer for the company as well.

Since gaining power in the company, Triple H has brought back several released stars and seems to be reverting some of the changes to WWE NXT.

Kofi Kingston on Triple H’s New Role

Speaking with Steve Fall of NBC’s Ten Count, Kofi Kingston was asked which former stars he wants to see return to the company. “I would have said Bray,” he said. I would have said Bray if he didn’t debut last week. But I don’t know man. Off the top of my head, there are just so many people.”

“Even people that haven’t been here in WWE I would love to see in WWE. There is so much talent. I’ve said it before, but this is a real special time in wrestling. There’s just so much talent out there.”

Kingston then brought up that there will likely be more surprises in store for WWE fans now that Triple H is at the helm.

Especially with Triple H at the helm right now, we are going to have a lot more surprises and we are going to have a lot more moments of people coming back. We are really ticking the people’s fancy and giving them what they want. And that is a great thing to be a part of.

WWE Crown Jewel

The New Day is not currently booked for WWE’s upcoming Crown Jewel premium live event from Saudi Arabia. Some people might enjoy a break from international travel, but Kingston says he loves Saudi Arabia and wants to be booked on every WWE show.

“I’m at the point now where I kind of, of course, I want to be on every single show,” he said. “You know what I mean? I’m still very hungry in that sense. But I just wait to see what is happening and how things are going to unfold. I know that things always change at the last minute.”

“So often times we are not on a show and then I’ll find out on social media that we are on the show. I’m always the last one to find things out. I would love to go to Crown Jewel. I love Saudi, I love the people there. “

“I was actually the first person to go there before we actually started running televised shows there. I stayed there for 7-8 days or so, and I got to really immerse myself in the culture. It was one of the best experiences that I’ve had as a WWE Superstar hands down.”

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Ten Count and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 24th, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Former WWE Superstar Claims Cody Rhodes Was “Entitled” Early in His Career

Cody Rhodes was an EVP of All Elite Wrestling before exiting the promotion earlier this year. He spent nine years with WWE before being released from the company in 2016.

The former TNT Champion returned to WWE at WrestleMania 38. He was former WWE CEO Vince McMahon’s handpicked opponent for Seth “Freakin” Rollins.

The American Nightmare went on to defeat The Visionary three times in a row but was injured ahead of their match at Hell in a Cell. Cody entered the steel structure with a torn pectoral muscle and left a legend amongst WWE fans.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Former WWE Superstar Rene Dupree on Cody Rhodes

Rene Dupree recently discussed Cody Rhodes on his Cafe de Rene podcast. The former WWE Superstar claimed that The American Nightmare was entitled early in his career. Rene recalled Cody getting hired by the company despite having little experience and trying to be an actor at the time.

I remember Cody Rhodes one time spotted off like yeah second generation guys don’t get along and I’m thinking what the f**k do you know about that. My days with Cody were different with other people because when I first met him like, entitled? like a hundred and f**king percent right… He got hired, no experience, no nothing, he was 21, he was trying to be an actor in Hollywood.

  • 5 Reasons MJF Should Win the AEW World Championship

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

When Will Cody Rhodes Return to WWE?

Cody Rhodes isn’t expected to return to action this year. Many have speculated that he will return at the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event but time will tell. The American Nightmare recently spoke to TMZ Sports and said that he hopes his return is a run fans remember. Cody added that his return before injury was the best three months of his life.

  • Chris Jericho’s Best Gimmicks Ranked

Posted October 23rd, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

3 Reasons Chris Jericho is the Right Choice as ROH Champion

Chris Jericho keeps adding to his incredible career and legacy. Jericho recently acquired his 8th world title at Dynamite: Grand Slam. He defeated Claudio Castagnoli to become the new ROH Champion at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

After winning the title, Chris Jericho vowed to defeat every former ROH Champion he can and even attacked ROH ring announcer Bobby Cruise. AEW President Tony Khan purchased Ring of Honor earlier this year and is hoping to secure a weekly TV show for the promotion in the near future.

  • Chris Jericho’s Best Gimmicks Ranked

Here are three reasons Chris Jericho is the right choice as the ROH Champion:

Reliability

Chris Jericho has proven to be one of the most valuable performers in All Elite Wrestling. His reign as the inaugural AEW World Champion laid the foundation for the promotion to be successful, and now Tony Khan is relying on Chris to do the same for Ring of Honor.

Jericho’s run as AEW Champion lasted 182 days after defeating Kenny Omega at Double or Nothing 2019. He eventually lost the title to Jon Moxley at Revolution 2020.

Jericho’s career has spanned three decades now and he has shown no signs of slowing down as of late. He recently got into the best shape of his life and is delivering consistently solid matches for AEW at 51 years old. Jericho signed a three-year contract extension with AEW last week.

It was rumored that WWE was expecting him to return to the promotion in 2024, which only further proves how valuable he remains in the professional wrestling business.

WWE Expected Chris Jericho to Return in 2024 (Report)

Creativity

Whether it be Y2J, Le Champion, or The Wizard, Chris has demonstrated an ability to reinvent himself countless times throughout the years. His run as Le Champion was a memorable one, and his “a little bit of the bubbly” catchphrase spawned a successful champagne brand for the wrestling legend.

Chris has already had two different factions in All Elite Wrestling and both of them have been a success. The Inner Circle and now the Jericho Appreciation Society. JAS refer to themselves as “sports entertainers” and oftentimes wear flashy outfits and ridiculous hats.

The storyline leading up to the ROH Championship match between Chris Jericho and Bryan Danielson surrounded ROH Pure Champion Daniel Garcia. Bryan Danielson wanted Garcia to be a professional wrestler and join the Blackpool Combat Club, while Chris wanted him to remain in JAS and be a sports entertainer.

Ultimately, Garcia opted to align with Jericho instead of his hero growing up, Bryan Danielson. Jericho Appreciation Society have already positioned themselves to be the focal point of Ring of Honor when the promotion launches a weekly TV show.

Chris can enter into a feud with anyone and make it entertaining. It is hard to imagine a trait more valuable than that when trying to build new stars in a relaunching a promotion.

Recognizability

Naturally, Chris Jericho has accumulated millions of fans throughout his thirty years in the wrestling business. Jericho performed in Mexico, Canadian Rocky Mountain Wrestling, Smoky Mountain Wrestling, ECW, and WCW early in his career. He interrupted The Rock to make his WWE debut in 1999 and has remained a star ever since.

Jericho had three successful runs in WWE before returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2017. Chris captured the IWGP IC Title at NJPW Dominion in 2018. AEW made Jericho it’s inaugural champion to instantly provide credibility to the promotion.

In addition to being a familiar face in wrestling, Chris has also become a star in the music industry. His rock band, Fozzy, debuted in 2000 and has released seven studio albums. Jericho’s entrance theme, “Judas”, is Fozzy’s most popular song to date. The music video is currently closing in on 60 million views.

Chris was also one of the first professional wrestlers to enter the podcast game. His “Talk Is Jericho” podcast has over 900 episodes to date and features interviews with some of the biggest stars in the industry today.

Jericho has a massive following and helped bring fans to All Elite Wrestling when the product first launched three years ago. It appears that we are about to watch history repeat itself when it comes to Ring of Honor.

AEW has had its pitfalls recently, but overall the promotion has provided what it set out to be, an alternative for wrestling fans. Chris Jericho carried the torch when AEW first launched and it will be interesting to see what the wrestling legend has in store for fans as the Ring of Honor Champion. One thing is for certain, many fans will tune in to find out.

Has Chris Jericho Revealed how he Really Feels about CM Punk?

Posted October 23rd, 2022 in Features. Tagged: .

CM Punk Moved the Needle During His Time with AEW

All Elite Wrestling is reportedly negotiating a buyout with CM Punk for the remaining years on his contract.

  • CM Punk Probably Won’t Return to AEW

The 43-year-old debuted to a sold-out United Center on the 2nd episode of AEW Rampage last year. AEW and Punk sold out the venue on a rumor that he would be making his return to professional wrestling after seven long years away.

It was electric in Chicago when “Cult of Personality” blasted through the speakers and The Voice of the Voiceless had finally returned. Unfortunately, the good vibes were short-lived and Punk seemingly has squandered the opportunity he always complained about not getting in WWE.

Was CM Punk a Draw in All Elite Wrestling?

One of the criticisms of CM Punk is that he wasn’t a draw for the promotion. AEW President Tony Khan once vehemently defended the former two-time AEW World Champion from criticism from Eric Bischoff during a media scrum.

‘It’s F*cking Bullshit’: Tony Khan Fires Back At Eric Bischoff For Saying CM Punk Is A Financial Flop

Wrestlenomics has provided some data that proves that CM Punk was a draw for All Elite Wrestling during his year in the promotion. According to Wrestlenomics, Punk increased quarter-hour ratings when he was on the screen. The five PPVs he appeared on are the highest-selling in promotion history. He main evented two $1m gates and has four of the top ten selling items on ShopAEW and PWTees this year.

Was CM Punk a draw for AEW? -His appearances often increased quarter-hours -5 PPVs he was on are AEW’s 5 highest-selling -Main evented two $1M gates, arguably drew a 3rd he wasn’t on -4 of 10 top selling items for the yr on ShopAEW & PWTees are his

CM Punk defeated Jon Moxley at AEW All Out in the NOW Arena in Chicago on September 4th. He tore his pectoral during the match and would have had to relinquish the title anyway.

However, CM Punk went on a rant to begin the media scrum after the PPV. During the rant, he insulted The Elite, Hangman Page, Colt Cabana, and others, all while AEW President Tony Khan was seated directly next to him.

After his rant, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks reportedly went to the former AEW World Champion’s locker room and a brawl broke out. CM Punk’s friend and former AEW producer Ace Steel has been released from the company.

Report: Talent who know CM Punk Predicted AEW Run Would Go Poorly

Posted October 23rd, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: .

Kofi Kingston Has “No Idea” Why He Never Got a Rematch Against Brock Lesnar

Kofi Kingston captured the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 35 by defeating Daniel Bryan.

He wrestled 75 matches as the champion and had long rivalries with Kevin Owens, Randy Orton, and Dolph Ziggler during his reign.

WWE SmackDown debuted on Fox on October 4th, 2019. The main event for the show was Kofi defending his WWE Championship against Brock Lesnar.

Most fans expected Brock to win but The Beast absolutely dominated and squashed Kofi to win the title.

Kofi Kingston on why He Never Got a Rematch Against Brock Lesnar

The former WWE Champion spoke with Steve Fall on NBC Ten Count recently and was asked why he never received a rematch after the shocking defeat.

Kofi admitted that he has no idea why he didn’t get a rematch for the title but claimed that it is not something he dwells on nowadays.

I have no idea. I don’t really dwell on the why, there is a lot of things in the industry that you look at sometimes and you’re like ‘whoa, why did that happen?’. And you just move on and the wheel keeps on turning.

Again, for me to like dwell on what happened in that match with Brock Lesnar, it doesn’t serve me any purpose, right? It’s not going to make me better, it’s not going to change what happened, it’s not really going to do anything besides make me feel bad.

So, I’m not going to let it do that. I have a lot more career left to handle. I think that it is a scenario where like, again this is such a unique opportunity to be on this roster.

As far as my run being WWE Champion, I got to go six months almost to the day. So that is a very long reign.

I think if you look back at how many of the past or current champions have had a reign of six months or more it’s Brock Lesnar, Bobby Lashley, Roman Reigns and myself.

Kofi spoke about his rivalries during his title reign and noted how it was cool to tie everything together by revisiting his rivalry with The Viper Randy Orton.

AJ Styles at the beginning, and then Randy Orton kind of like tying everything together.

Being that I was in for a push in 2009 and I was out in a rivalry with Randy Orton, and then it didn’t work out.

So to be able to kind of like button that up was great. So I enjoyed my title reign. I enjoyed every single moment of it because I know how rare it is to be in that championship role.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit NBC Ten Count and give a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 23rd, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

Jon Moxley Set to Defend AEW World Championship on Dynamite

AEW President Tony Khan has announced a big AEW World Championship match for this Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite.

The announcement came just a few minutes after NXT Halloween Havoc went on the air.

Jon Moxley will put the AEW World Championship on the line against Penta El Zero Miedo this Wednesday night on Dynamite.

Tony Khan took to Twitter to announce the match for next week’s show in Norfolk, VA.

Book it! This Wednesday, October 26 Chartway Arena, Norfolk VA Wednesday Night #AEWDynamite   LIVE on @TBSNetwork 8pm ET/7pm CT @AEW World Championship Match@JonMoxley vs@PENTAELZEROM See you this Wednesday on TBS!

Jon Moxley Confronted at Daily’s Place

AEW Rampage was live this week from Daily’s Place. AEW World Champion Jon Moxley cut a promo outside the venue and boasted about knocking out the #1 contender (Hangman) on Dynamite. Jon added that he’s not satisfied and wants to pick up where he left off next week on Dynamite.

I’m not happy, I’m not satisfied. I came here to Jacksonville this week for the sole purpose of walking into the Khan’s office and saying ‘I want to pick up on Dynamite next week right where I left off’. You only live once and I’ve wasted a lot of time in life. I don’t want to waste any more.

Penta and Alex Abrahantes interrupted Moxley outside of Daily’s Place. Penta claimed to be the only wrestler on the AEW roster that doesn’t have any fear and challenged the champion.

WWE NXT Reportedly Planning Next PLE on Same Day as ROH Final Battle

Posted October 22nd, 2022 in AEW, News. Tagged: .

WWE Legend on JBL Managing Baron Corbin: “They’re Trying”

Baron Corbin recently returned on WWE RAW with the legendary John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield as his manager.

JBL picked up Corbin in his limo on the September 2nd edition of SmackDown and they had not appeared on TV since Corbin’s return last week.

Rey Mysterio approached Triple H on a recent episode of SmackDown and tried to quit due to conflict with his son, Dominik Mysterio, and The Judgment Day. The Game opted to trade Corbin to the RAW roster and bring Mysterio to SmackDown instead.

Rey Mysterio Explains Why He Tried To Quit WWE & How Triple H Convinced Him To Join The SmackDown Roster

Baron battled Dolph Ziggler in a long match on RAW as JBL joined commentary. JBL referred to Corbin as the “Modern Day Wrestling God” after he defeated The Showoff.

Jim Cornette on Baron Corbin & JBL

Wrestling legend Jim Cornette praised JBL for his promo and on episode 266 of Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru. Jim and co-host Brian Last joked that JBL’s suit was a little too big for him.

Jim praised JBL for his promo ability and noted how he got the crowd to turn against him right away.

He acknowledged the people’s cheers and etc, and then went right into the f***ing best heel promo, the most natural.

He’s got the personality, the delivery, the material, it was all off the top of his head. He buried Oklahoma and praised Texas, like if you anyone from Oklahoma and Texas, that is all they do.

Cornette wondered if even the great JBL will be able to get Baron Corbin over with the crowd despite being a great promo.

JBL is a great promo. But can even he get Baron Corbin over? But it’s not Happy Corbin anymore. They’re trying.

It’s Baron Corbin. We were watching the show when he became homeless Corbin and then he became Happy Corbin, but did we ever just see a Baron Corbin? Before that he was the possum king, King Corbin.

Have we ever just seen Baron Corbin try to be serious?

The 61-year-old noted that Corbin’s new gear looks horrendous and compared him to “some kind of a mole creature” that resides underground.

His gear still looks horrendous. I don’t what the f***. He’s so hairless. He looks like some kind of mole creature. That lives underground and has no hair. I don’t know.

But his gear looks horrendous, which accentuates the paleness and lack of features he has. He seems to have lost weight. He’s trying to get in better shape.

His work, some of it looked okay. His physical appearance to me is odd and off-putting. I don’t know how to explain it.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Posted October 22nd, 2022 in WWE, News. Tagged: , .

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