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Black Adam is The Rock’s Biggest Opening as a Leading Man

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s new film ‘Black Adam’ is off to a strong start at the box office.

The film is expected to open with $60M-$62M over the weekend, making it the best domestic debut for The Rock outside of The Mummy Returns in 2001. As reported by Deadline, ‘Black Adam’ opened with a strong $26.8M on Friday and was The Rock’s best opening day for a film he’s the solo star of.

The reviews have been mixed for the film. The critic score on Rotten Tomatoes currently sits at 41% while the audience score is much more positive at 89% enjoyed the film. ‘Black Adam’ currently has a 7.2 rating on IMDb with over 28,000 reviews from fans.

The Rock on if a Presidential Run is Still on the Table

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson isn’t just a beloved wrestler and the biggest movie star on the planet, he’s also a potential presidential candidate in the eyes of some fans. The Rock recently shot down rumors of him running for public office in 2024.

However, The Great One claimed that he may consider it down the line in a recent interview with Jake Tapper on CNN. He noted that his main priority right now is to be a father to his daughters but wouldn’t rule out a possible run in the future.

Right now for my daughters, it is important that I’m home, and that stability is important for me to be there. That is the most important thing to me.

By the way, that is a tough thing I think to reconcile, I’m blown away by that. The fact that I’m even having this conversation with you.

The fact that I’ve been approached by the most influential in the world of politics, which I think you (Jake Tapper) know very well. It was really moving but right now the most important job I have is to be their father.

Backstage News on Willow Nightingale Signing with All Elite Wrestling

Willow Nightingale was supposed to battle Penelope Ford last night but the 30-year-old was pulled from AEW Rampage with an injury. Nightingale was given a new opponent, Leila Grey of The Baddies.

The match went back and forth but eventually, Nightingale took control. Willow hit a Spinebuster and then a Powerbomb for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Tony Schiavone got into the ring to interview Willow. He announced that Nightingale was officially All Elite and the crowd cheered. Willow celebrated for a moment but it was short-lived.

TBS Champion Jade Cargill interrupted and demanded that Nyla Rose return her title. Rose was then shown outside Daily’s Place in Jacksonville with Marina Shafir and Vickie Guerrero. Nyla laughed and drove away with the TBS Championship as Jade Cargill beat down several AEW security guards.

Congratulations @willowwrestles! Welcome to the team! Willow Nightingale is ALL ELITE! #AEWRampage

Backstage Update on Willow Nightingale Signing with All Elite Wrestling

According to a new report from Fightful Select, it was known that Willow had signed with All Elite Wrestling in some capacity, but wasn’t confirmed to be full-time until the October 21st edition of Rampage. Nightingale now has merchandise on the AEW Shop.

Fightful added that when Nightingale finished with MLW, they believed that she was going to sign a full-time deal with another company. The report noted that independent promotions did not have to go through AEW to book Nightingale over the summer. Backstage reaction to the Nightingale signing is said to be very positive.

Nightingale debuted with All Elite Wrestling in May last year. She wrestled at ROH Death Before Dishonor earlier this year and defeated Allysin Kay.

AEW Women’s Star Out With Another Injury

Willow Nightingale defeated Leila Grey last night on AEW Rampage but that wasn’t the opponent she was originally scheduled to face.

All Elite Wrestling had advertised Willow versus Penelope Ford hours before the show but the match never took place.

On the October 21st edition of AEW Rampage, undefeated TBS Champion Jade Cargill sat down with Tony Schiavone to address Nyla Rose.

Nyla has stolen Jade’s TBS Championship and Cargill wants it back. During the interview, Schiavone mentioned that Cargill is going to hijack Rampage if she doesn’t get her belt back and then said “we also know Penelope Ford is injured and will not be able to wrestle Willow Nightingale tonight”. Jade would later hold Rampage hostage and beat down security after Nyla drove away from Daily’s Place with the stolen title.

The tweet from AEW of the interview states Penelope would not be able to compete due to a preshow injury. It is unknown how long Penelope will be out with an injury. She did not wrestle for AEW from mid-January to August with an undisclosed injury.

Penelope Ford last wrestled on AEW TV earlier this month on October 5th. She teamed with Jamie Hayter and Serena Deeb in a 6-woman tag team match. The trio lost to Athena, Toni Storm, and Willow Nightingale in the match on the 3 Year Anniversary of AEW Dynamite.

Ford, Hayter, and Deeb went on to defeat Brittany Blake, Jordan Blade, and Trish Adora on AEW Dark. The 30-year-old teamed up with her husband, AEW star Kip Sabian, to defeat Jeremy Prophet and Jessiki Neri on AEW Dark: Elevation episode #85.

Watch: WWE Superstar Rushed to Local Medical Facility After Attack From The Bloodline on SmackDown

Sheamus battled Solo Sikoa tonight to begin WWE SmackDown. The Bloodline (besides Roman Reigns) and The Brawling Brutes (Ridge Holland and Butch) were ringside for the match.

The Celtic Warrior was in control of the match when Honorary Uce Sami Zayn hopped on the ring apron for a distraction. Sikoa capitalized and connected with the Spinning Solo Uranage for the pinfall victory.

After the match, The Bloodline continued the attack but one member may have taken things too far. Jey Uso grabbed a steel chair and bashed Sheamus’ arm several times against the steel steps.

Jey went on to attack Logan Paul against The Tribal Chief’s orders later on the show. Sami once again tried to stop him but it was too late. Logan Paul leveled Jey with one punch to send a message to Roman Reigns ahead of Crown Jewel.

Sheamus Rushed To Local Medical Facility

After the attack by The Bloodline, Sheamus and The Brawling Brutes were interviewed backstage in a WWE Digital Exclusive. Sheamus was taken to a local medical facility, AKA a hospital, and The Brawling Brutes stopped for a brief interview.

Butch delivered a warning to The Bloodline and stated that “The Bloodline picked on the wrong bunch of lads”. Ridge Holland that this isn’t over and The Brawling Brutes walked away.

The rivalry between The Bloodline and The Brawling Brutes is far from over. It was announced that Solo Sikoa and Sami Zayn will battle Butch and Ridge Holland next week on WWE SmackDown. Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will also return next week on the blue brand.

5 Takeaways From AEW Rampage (10/21): All-Atlantic Title Match,The Acclaimed, Willow Nightingale, Hook

AEW Rampage aired live this week from Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida. The Acclaimed battled the Varsity Athletes in a Title vs. Trademark match. Hook defended the FTW Championship, Willow Nightingale signed with AEW, and Orange Cassidy defended the All-Atlantic Championship in the main event.

AEW Rampage Results

  • The Acclaimed def. Varsity Athletes (Title vs. Trademark)
  • Hook def. Ari Daivari to retain the FTW Championship
  • Willow Nightingale def. Leila Grey
  • Orange Cassidy def. Preston Vance & Rush in a Triple Threat match to retain the All-Atlantic Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

The Acclaimed Can Scissor Once Again

AEW World Tag Team Champions The Acclaimed (Max Caster & Anthony Bowens) battled The Varsity Athletes (Tony Nese & Josh Woods) in a Title versus Trademark match. Mark Sterling had recently trademarks the term “scissoring” in regards to wrestling and The Acclaimed put the titles on the line in order to win it back.

Josh Woods tagged in and hit Bowens with a forearm to the face and followed it up with a knee strike. Tony tagged back in and hit a Neckbreaker for a two count. The Acclaimed battled back and Bowens knocked Woods to the outside with a flurry of strikes.

Max Caster tagged in as Bowens connected with a slam. Caster climbed to the top turnbuckle and delivered the Mic Drop Elbow Drop for the pinfall victory. After the match, Mark Sterling said he still has the contract but Billy Gunn snuck up from behind. The Acclaimed then stomped on Mark’s groin and Bowens followed it up with a Leg Drop. Billy Gunn ripped up the trademark and scissored with the champions.

Hook Retained The FTW Championship

FTW Champion Hook put the title on the line against Ari Daivari of the Trust Busters. Daivari offered Hook cash for the title but Hook wasn’t interested. Hook connected with an Exploder Suplex but the challenger battled back. Daivari stomped on Hook in the corner and followed it up with a lariat.

The butler distracted Hook and Daivari hit a Superkick for a near fall. Hook caught Daivari on the apron and dragged him back into the middle of the ring. Hook applied Redrum for the submission victory and retained the FTW Championship. Hook then got the butler in Redrum as well after the match.

Matt Hardy Rapped

Matt Hardy asked The Firm where Private Party was and Stokely Hathaway said they sent them to wrestling school. Stokely then informed Matt that he got him a match on AEW Dark on Monday night. Hardy then rapped and it was so bad that The Firm walked away in silence.

Willow Nightingale Picked Up a Win & Is All Elite

Willow Nightingale battled Leila Grey tonight on AEW Dynamite. Nightingale chased Grey around the ring and got distracted by Kiera Hogan. Kiera hit Willow with a cheap shot as Grey distracted the referee.

When Rampage returned from a break, Nightingale hit a boot to the face and followed it up with a Spinebuster for a two count. Willow followed it up with a Powerbomb for the pinfall victory. After the match, it was announced that Willow Nightingale has signed with All Elite Wrestling. Willow was supposed to face Penelope Ford tonight but she was not cleared due to an injury.

TBS Champion Jade Cargill made her way to the ring without her title because Nyla Rose stole it from her. Jade took a seat on a chair in the middle of the ring and gave Nyla ten seconds to bring her title back. Nyla, Marina Shafir, and Vickie Guerrero were shown driving away from Daily’s Place with the title. Jade sent The Baddies after them and continued to just sit and wait in the ring. Cargill started leveling security as the came down the entrance ramp.

Orange Cassidy Retained The All-Atlantic Championship

Orange Cassidy defended the All-Atlantic Championship against Rush and Preston Vance tonight in a Triple Threat match. Mark Henry interviewed the competitors before the match as usual. Brodie Lee Jr. (-1) accompanied Preston Vance (10) to the entrance ramp before the match.

Cassidy brought the title to the ring in a backpack. Danhausen was ringside for the match as well. Rush sent 10 into the barricade to start off the action as Jose the Assistant offered him some water.

Rush beat the hell out of Preston and choked him with a cable he found under the ring. He then choked Orange Cassidy as well and posed for the booing crowd. Preston battled back with some chops to the chest. Orange Cassidy went for a Suicide Dive but they caught him. Rush and Preston tried to slam Orange Cassidy through the table but it didn’t break. Rush then sent 10 through the table during the commercial break.

When Rampage returned, Danhausen hit Jose the Assistant with a low blow. Rush leveled Cassidy and Danhausen to knock them out of the ring. Rush connected with an Exploder Suplex that launched Cassidy into the turnbuckle. Preston hit Rush with a series of Clotheslines and then a Spinebuster. Vance connected with a big Clothesline on Cassidy and went for the cover but Rush broke it up at two.

10 unloaded some chops in the corner of the ring but Rush shrugged them off. Rush started to rip away at Preston’s mask but turned around into an Orange Punch from the champion. Rush tumbled out of the ring as Cassidy rolled up Preston Vance for the pinfall victory. Orange Cassidy is still the All-Atlantic Champion. Rush pointed at Cassidy after the match as he posed with Danhausen in the ring.

Rampage went off the air with a message from Tony Khan to Brian Muster. He was AEW’s lead video engineer for the company and sadly passed away recently.

9 Takeaways From WWE SmackDown (10/21): Logan Paul Knocks Out a Member of The Bloodline, Bray Wyatt

WWE SmackDown aired live from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio. Logan Paul appeared during tonight’s show to address Roman Reigns ahead of their title match at WWE Crown Jewel. Bray Wyatt cut a promo and Damage CTRL defended the Women’s Tag Team Championships tonight as well.

SmackDown Results

  • Solo Sikoa def. Sheamus
  • Liv Morgan vs. Sonya Deville ended in a double count out
  • Damage CTRL def. Raquel Rodriguez & Shotzi to retain the Women’s Tag Team Championships
  • Rey Mysterio def. Ludwig Kaiser

Here are the takeaways from this week’s WWE SmackDown:

The Bloodline Brutally Attacked Sheamus

Sheamus battled Solo Sikoa tonight on SmackDown. The Bloodline (without Reigns & Heyman) and The Brawling Brutes (Ridge Holland & Butch) were ringside for the match. Sheamus controlled the action early and connected with White Noise for a near fall.

Sikoa battled back and planted The Celtic Warrior with a Samoan Drop off the middle turnbuckle for a close near fall. Sheamus hit the Brogue Kick but Sami distracted the official. The Brawling Brutes and The Usos then brawlwed outside the ring.

The Usos flipped the announce table onto The Brawling Brutes but turned around into a Flying Clothesline from Sheamus. Sami tripped Sheamus up once again and Sikoa capitalized with the Spinning Solo (Uranage) for the pinfall victory.

After the match, The Bloodline isolated Sheamus ringside and beat him down. Jey Uso bashed Sheamus several times with a steel chair until Zayn stopped him. It was announced that Sheamus suffered an injury during the attack. Sami and Solo will face Butch & Ridge Holland next week in a tag team match.

https://twitter.com/WWESoloSikoa/status/1583624887792701441?s=20&t=MRMrseyNMYzSwz28Nr362Q

Bray Wyatt Delivered A Message

Bray Wyatt cut a backstage promo with “Shatter” by Code Orange playing throughout the segment. Wyatt said he knows he has problems and gets chances that most people will not get. Bray claimed that he wanted fans to leave him the hell alone but he is glad that they didn’t because he needed out all of them to lift him up. Wyatt added that he is just a servant now and he goes where the circle take him.

WWE later dropped another QR code for Bray Wyatt and you can check that out here.

Liv Morgan Has Gone Crazy

Liv Morgan battled Sonya Deville tonight and Sonya dominated the action early as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

Liv lost it and bashed Sonya’s face off the steel steps over and over. She then slammed Sonya on the ring apron and the announce table. The match ended in a double count out but Liv wasn’t done. Morgan brought a bunch of steel chairs into the ring and connected with a Superplex on top of them. Morgan laughed like a maniac after the move.

Omos & Braun Strowman Will Battle At Crown Jewel

Omos and Braun Strowman had a face-to-face on tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown. Strowman called Omos out but MVP came to the ring alone. MVP said that Braun Strowman was always the biggest and the strongest until he found himself in the vicinity of the giant Omos.

MVP advised Braun to stay away from Omos because once the WWE Universe sees Strowman against Omos he will be exposed. Strowman said he didn’t want MVP’s advice and issued a challenge to Omos. MVP accepted the challenge for a match at WWE Crown Jewel and introduced Omos. The giant stood tall over Strowman and knocked Braun out of the ring to end the segment.

Karrion Kross Will Battle Drew McIntyre in a Steel Cage Match At WWE Crown Jewel

Drew McIntyre said he was called to WWE Headquarters last week after his attack on Karrion Kross in the parking lot. McIntyre announced that he will face Karrion Kross in a Steel Cage match at WWE Crown Jewel.

https://twitter.com/WrestlingSZN7/status/1583625679673098240?s=20&t=csFZhFlFlDLuxiMK3YRQfA

Damage CTRL Retained The Women’s Tag Titles

Dakota Kai & IYO SKY of Damage CTRL put the Women’s Tag Team Championships on the line against Shotzi & Raquel Rodriguez tonight on WWE SmackDown. Shotzi and Raquel isolated Dakota in the ring to start off the match. Dakota tried to regroup on the outside but Raquel launched IYO on top of her. Shotzi climbed onto Raquel’s shoulders and hit a Crossbody onto Damage CTRL outside the ring.

Back in the ring, Raquel went for the cover but Kai kicked out at two. When SmackDown returned, Rodriguez unloaded some Clotheslines and planted IYO with a Fallaway Slam. Rodriguez delivered another one to Dakota and climbed to the middle turnbuckle.

IYO booted her down and hit an awesome Tornado DDT for a near fall. Damage CTRL isolated Shotzi in the ring and SKY hit her with a Moonsault for the pinfall victory. Damage CTRL are still the Women’s Tag Team Champions.

Ronda Rousey Mocked The Crowd

WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey mocked the fans and said that she didn’t come back for them. Rousey added that she was going to have an Open Challenge tonight but will do it next week when she feels like it. Ronda ended the promo by saying that she’s going to get the hell out of Ohio.

Rey Mysterio def. Ludwig Kaiser

Rey Mysterio battled Ludwig Kaiser of Imperium tonight on WWE SmackDown. . Rey will battle Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship in two weeks on SmackDown.

The action started off back and forth. Ludwig was in control following a commercial break but Mysterio battled back. Rey hit a Frankensteiner for a near fall.

The action spilled out of the ring and Rey paid tribute to Eddie Guerrero and pretended that Imperium hit him with a chair. The referee then ejected Imperium from the ringside area. Mysterio then took control and hit a Frog Splash for the pinfall victory.

Logan Paul Knocked Out Jey Uso

Logan Paul will challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Crown Jewel on November 5th.

The 27-year-old cut a promo to end the show and got booed by the crowd. Logan mocked Roman Reigns for needing The Bloodline to do his bidding and poked fun at Sami Zayn’s appearance.

Logan wondered what would happen if he actually defeats Roman Reigns at WWE Crown Jewel. Jey Uso attacked Logan Paul from behind, even though Sami claimed that Roman Reigns doesn’t want The Bloodline to go after Logan.

Jey hit Logan with a Superkick to the face and posed for the crowd. Uso followed it up with a Senton as the crowd booed. The Honorary Uce Sami Zayn showed up on the ring apron and said that The Tribal Chief doesn’t want this. Jey didn’t listen and Logan Paul decked Jey Uso with a right hand. Sami Zayn then stared at Logan in shock as he exited the ring.

WWE Drops Another QR Code for Bray Wyatt on SmackDown

Bray Wyatt made his shocking return to WWE at the conclusion of Extreme Rules. He arrived after Matt Riddle defeated Seth Rollins in the Fight Pit match. The lights in the arena went out and an abandoned Firefly Fun House set was shown. The puppets then came to life in human form and a mysterious door appeared on the entrance ramp. Bray Wyatt opened the door and walked through as the WWE Universe went crazy.

WWE ran a teaser campaign leading up to the Premium Live Event. The company played the 1967 song “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane randomly at live events and during commercial breaks. Several QR codes appeared that gave fans clues including a game of hangman. The question asked was “WHO KILLED THE WORLD?” and the answer was “YOU DID”.

Most fans figured that the QR codes were over now that Bray has returned to the company but another one appeared tonight on SmackDown. WWE was hyping up Logan Paul’s promo later tonight and a video for Bray appeared. The masked man said “never lie to the ones you love” in the video and you can check it out below.

A QR code appeared during the video and takes fans to another secret WWE website. This time the website has a psychiatric evaluation of Bray Wyatt. In the evaluation, Bray is stated to have “difficulty showing remorse or empathy”. It was also listed under “other” that Bray was “disregarding or violating the rights of others”. You can check out the full psychological evaluation of Bray Wyatt below.

Bray wyatt psych

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

AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa hasn’t appeared on television since before the All Out PPV.

Thunder Rosa announced in a backstage segment that she would be unable to compete at the PPV. Toni Storm went on to capture the Interim Women’s Championship and has recently taken a couple of shots at Rosa.

Toni recently spoke with Bleacher Report and said she’s the one here doing all the work and is getting tired of the “interim nonsense”. The 27-year-old debuted with All Elite Wrestling in March. Thunder Rosa defeated Britt Baker in a Steel Cage match at Dynamite: St. Patrick’s Day Slam to capture the title.

I guess my first thing would be to beat Thunder Rosa and stop this interim nonsense,” she said. “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.

AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa Responds to Toni Storm

Thunder Rosa recently responded to Toni’s comments during an appearance on Busted Open Radio. She told Toni to go complain to the booker (AEW President Tony Khan) if she has an issue. The 36-year-old added that she hopes to return to All Elite Wrestling in January. Rosa suggested that the AEW Interim Women’s Champion check out her updates on her YouTube page as well.

They haven’t given me a time yet when I’m coming back. I’m saying it’s January, and I hope it is January.

Again, if Toni Storm disagrees with what’s decided in the back, that’s not my problem. That is not my problem, Toni.

If you have something to ask, you can go on my YouTube and watch my YouTube videos I have posted every time I’m in a doctor’s office, showing you and explaining what’s going on with me.

Thunder Rosa(via Busted Open)

Backstage Update on CM Punk Returning to WWE if He Leaves AEW

CM Punk defeated Jon Moxley to win the AEW World Championship in the main event of AEW All Out on September 5th.

He suffered a torn tricep during the match and is out of action while he recovers from surgery. Following the PPV, All Elite Wrestling held a media scrum and led off with the newly crowned AEW World Champion.

CM Punk went on a rant for the ages while AEW President Tony Khan was seated right next to him. Punk claimed that the company’s EVPs weren’t capable of running a Target, let alone a wrestling company.

After his rant, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks confronted CM Punk backstage and a brawl broke out. Ace Steel has been released from the company, CM Punk and The Elite were stripped of their titles and have not appeared on TV since All Out.

Will CM Punk Return to WWE?

CM Punk on stage
(AEW)

It was reported earlier today by the Wrestling Observer that CM Punk is not likely to return to AEW and the company is working on a buyout for the former champion A non-compete clause appears to be the hold-up at the moment.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, sources within WWE believe that CM Punk would not have been brought back to the company with Vince McMahon at the helm, but that may not be the case with Triple H. A source told Fightful that Triple H wants to create compelling TV “more than anything” but can’t see WWE bringing CM Punk back on a full-time deal like he had in All Elite Wrestling.

However, if the money, creative and situation is right, Triple H’s regime can leave the door open for anything. It was also noted that Punk may not need to wrestle again if his contract gets bought out.

The report echoed previous sentiments that many within All Elite Wrestling do not want CM Punk back unless he makes serious amends for how he made the company look following All Out.

  • CM Punk Probably Won’t Return to AEW

3 Reasons MJF is Already a Generational Talent

MJF has taken the professional wrestling world by storm and he’s just getting started. Maxwell became wildly popular after his “pipebomb” promo about AEW President Tony Khan on the Dynamite after Double or Nothing.

He had skipped an autograph signing leading up to the PPV and there were rumors he was going to no-show the PPV. Friedman ultimately did show up and got squashed by Wardlow. However, it was MJF that emerged as the bigger star following the PPV.

Here are 3 reasons MJF is already a generational talent:

The Mic Skills

MJF has a skill that most of today’s wrestlers do not possess, he can captivate an audience with his words.

Maxwell doesn’t just hold the audience’s attention when he speaks, he has them hanging on every word. He’s an old-school heel that will say whatever it takes to get his opponent off their game. MJF is also old-school in regard to his interviews. He rarely breaks character and is the same on Dynamite as he is on a podcast.

The rivalry between former AEW World Champion CM Punk and MJF culminated in a Dog Collar match at AEW Revolution. Punk emerged victorious in the match to even the record up at 1-1. Time will tell if we ever get to see the third match in the series.

MJF has made the claim that his feud with CM Punk will go down as one of the best of all time. Their promo at Dynamite: Thanksgiving in 2021 alone makes their rivalry a memorable one.

The Character

It is easy to dismiss MJF as a jerk or just another heel, but you aren’t paying attention if you do so. Friedman has referenced being bullied in the past for being Jewish, as well as hinting that he’s not the biggest fan of himself recently.

AEW Dynamite had a special Tuesday night edition of Dynamite this week. During the show, Tony Schiavone was set to interview Blackpool Combat Club’s William Regal. MJF quickly interrupted and brought up an email Regal sent him 7-years ago.

Max had tried out for WWE and Regal told him that he was too young, but to email updates on his work. Regal apparently scolded MJF in one of the emails and Max resented it. William mocked the 26-year-old, called him sunshine, and claimed that he’s had it easy in his career if he’s hung up on an email.

Following Hangman Page’s injury, MJF and Jon Moxley had an impromptu promo while William Regal was ringside. MJF announced that he will be cashing in his chip for a shot at the AEW World Championship at Full Gear. He added “for once in my miserable life, I’m going to earn it” as Regal grinned.

Thus, he’s not a complete vile character. There is a kernel of dignity somewhere within MJF’s character that fans get to see from time to time.

The Future

MJF may just have the brightest future of anybody in wrestling.

There was a brief moment when Austin Theory appeared to be on his way to the top of the industry, but the 25-year-old seemingly hasn’t won a match since capturing the Money in the Bank contract.

At 26, the future is incredibly bright for Maxwell Jacob Friedman. He’s established himself as an attraction, meaning he doesn’t get inside the squared circle often. However, whenever MJF does get in the ring he proves that he is one of the best wrestlers on the planet as well.

It is must-watch television when MJF delivers a promo. When MJF wrestles a match, it is must-watch television because you don’t get to see it often and you know it is going to be worth your time.

MJF’s epic rant at The Forum in Los Angeles following Double or Nothing, and his subsequent absence from AEW TV, has made him a massive star in the wrestling industry. It was a promo that only a qualified oratory exhibitionist like MJF could deliver. The following months without him only proved how much AEW needed him.

His return at AEW All Out was overshadowed by CM Punk’s rant and the brawl at the media scrum after the PPV. However, Max has gotten fans to talk about him and less about the controversy since All Out.

It sure looks like MJF will be capturing the AEW World Championship at Full Gear on November 19th. He will also likely be heading into the bidding war of 2024 as one of the biggest free agents the industry has ever seen. MJF is Salt of the Earth, better than you and you know it, and has set himself up to become a legend in the years to come.

  • 5 Reasons MJF Should Win The AEW World Championship

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

Popular YouTuber, boxer, podcaster, and WWE Superstar Logan Paul is scheduled to battle Roman Reigns at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th.

The Tribal Chief will put the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship on the line against Logan at the Premium Live Event. Roman Reigns has held the title for 778 days now and the 27-year-old will look to put an end to his title reign in a couple of weeks.

Logan Paul and The Bloodline held a press conference in Las Vegas last month to make the match official.

Roman Reigns Reacts to Logan Paul Training with Shawn Michaels

Logan Paul has only competed in two matches during his young WWE career. He teamed up with The Miz at WrestleMania 38 to battle Dominik and Rey Mysterio. The A-Lister and Logan picked up the victory but The Miz betrayed him after the match.

The Miz planted Logan with a Skull Crushing Finale at WrestleMania as the crowd cheered. Logan got his revenge a couple of months later at WWE SummerSlam. Logan defeated The Miz in a singles match and impressed the WWE Universe with his skills in the squared circle.

He is in for the match of his life at Crown Jewel against The Tribal Chief but appears to be taking the necessary steps in order to give himself a fighting chance. Logan took to Twitter today to share a photo of him training with WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels. The 27-year-old is in mid-flip in the photo seen below.

Roman Reigns responded to the photos and joked that Logan Paul is going to need all the help he can get at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th.

He’s gonna need all the help he can get. Hopefully he’s training with God next week. #WWECrownJewel

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

Ring of Honor will hold its next PPV event on December 10th. ROH Final Battle will live from the University of Texas at Arlington with a start time of 4 PM ET.

The Wednesday night wars were revisited this week, only this time it was on a Tuesday. AEW Dynamite aired on Tuesday night this week due to postseason baseball. Dynamite drew a larger audience and a bigger number in the key demographic in this week’s ratings war.

AEW President Tony Khan also spoke with Sports Illustrated recently and said that there will be “great news” soon about a weekly ROH TV show after the PPV.

We’ll have great news soon about Ring of Honor weekly shows,” Khan says. “The success of Death Before Dishonor on pay-per-view has ensured there will be more Ring of Honor pay-per-views.

Our goal is to have one more great pay-per-view for Ring of Honor in 2022 and then follow that up with a weekly show in 2023.

Tony Khan on the future of ROH via Sports Illustrated

WWE Planning Show The Same Day As ROH Final Battle

WWE reportedly is planning an event on the same day as ROH Final Battle. The company employed a similar strategy against AEW All Out weekend, with Clash at the Castle and an NXT event happening the same weekend.

In a new report from Fightful Select, NXT talent were informed that December 10th is the date internally scheduled for the next WWE NXT Premium Live Event.

The show is rumored to be related to the “Deadline” trademark recently filed by WWE but that has not been confirmed.

While the shows will be on the same day, the companies will not be going head-to-head. ROH Final Battle is scheduled to air in the afternoon, while the unnamed NXT event will be at night.

Fightful’s report also notes that the NXT PLE will likely be held in the Performance Center and is expected to be announced at the Halloween Havoc event this Saturday.

MJF Responds to Praise From WWE Legend by Suggesting he Jump off a Bridge

MJF is one of the biggest stars of All Elite Wrestling and wrestling legends are starting to take notice.

On this week’s special Tuesday night edition of AEW Dynamite, Maxwell confronted William Regal of the Blackpool Combat Club. MJF brought up an email Regal sent him in the past that he thought was an attempt to crush his dreams. Regal responded by claiming MJF has had it easy if he’s hung up on an email from seven years ago.

William also referred to MJF as “sunshine” multiple times in the segment. The 54-year-old’s words must have left an impact on MJF as he made a proclamation to close the show. After Hangman Page suffered a concussion in the title match against Jon Moxley, the AEW World Champion called MJF out.

Jon wanted to fight but MJF announced that he will be cashing in his chip for a title match at AEW Full Gear. Maxwell added “for the first time in my miserable life, I’m going to earn it” before whipping the microphone to the floor.

https://twitter.com/TranquiloSZN/status/1582552149950504963?s=20&t=mzY_q6KTSd3M8eoOVcjRyQ

MJF Responds to Praise from Mick Foley

WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley took to Twitter after the incredible segment between William Regal and MJF on this week’s Dynamite. Mick praised MJF for his mic skills and added that he’s believable.

MJF HAS SOME SERIOUS SKILLS! While I might not believe every word @The_MJF says, I believe that HE believes every word he says – and that’s IMPORTANT!

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1582871797091139585?s=20&t=4nK-D5eFN9PRASZqoizObQ

MJF responded to the WWE legend and used his “right here” catchphrase. Maxwell joked that Foley should go take a “Nestea plunge off a bridge”.

Everything I say is true, especially here……Right here. On twitter. Now go take a Nestea plunge off a bridge, Mickey.

Jim Ross Comments on Ace Steel Being Released by AEW: “I Thought he was a Good Hand”

Wrestling legend and AEW commentator Jim Ross has shared his thoughts on Ace Steel being released from All Elite Wrestling.

Ace Steel had a hell of a run leading up until All Out but the brawl during the media scrum came back to bite him. He appeared on the Dynamite before the PPV to hype up CM Punk and convince him to challenge for the title once again.

CM Punk had dropped the AEW World Championship to Jon Moxley the week prior on Dynamite. Ace’s words of wisdom inspired Punk to accept the challenge and he fired up his hometown crowd in the NOW Arena.

Jim Ross on Ace Steel Being Released by All Elite Wrestling

Jim Ross spoke about Ace Steel being let go by AEW on a recent episode of his Grillin JR podcast.The 70-year-old complimented Ace as a producer and referred to him as a “solid hand”. Ross added that he didn’t work with him directly and called the situation “regrettable”.

“He’s a smart guy. He has a lot of product knowledge. Solid hand. I thought he did a nice job. I didn’t work with him directly a lot. I have seen him at TV and he was always friendly and approachable.

I’m sorry to hear that because I thought he was a good hand and did a nice job there. Things have a way of working out, you never say never, but I always thought he did a nice job for us. He was very loyal to CM Punk, nothing wrong with that, they were buddies. I’m assuming CM Punk is the guy that got Ace Steel his job.

I don’t know where all of that is going. I hate to see anybody lose a job, lose a paycheck. While he was there, he seemed to be a viable asset, but again, I didn’t work with him directly. I didn’t have any issues, pro or con, with him. The bottom line is, another guy lost his job. That’s what’s regrettable.”

JR wished Ace well and believes that he will find another job in wrestling.

He’s got skills. I would think, if given a fair shake within the landscape of wrestling in general, he’ll find some work. Smart guy. I hope it works out well. I regret that anybody, anywhere in wrestling, loses their job.

H/T: WrestleTalk

Joe Rogan on Ric Flair’s Figure Four Leg Lock: “It Doesn’t Work”

Ric Flair wrestled his final match at the “Ric Flair’s Last Match” event during SummerSlam weekend. The match took place at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium and was presented by Jim Crocket Promotions and Conrad Thompson.

He teamed up with his son-in-law, AEW star Andrade El Idolo, to beat wrestling legend Jeff Jarrett and AEW star Jay Lethal in a tag team match.

Flair has won countless matches throughout his career with the Figure Four submission hold, a move created by Buddy Rogers and has been used by many wrestlers throughout the years. Flair recently recounted his last match on his “To Be The Man” podcast.

Joe Rogan on Ric Flair’s Figure Four

Popular podcaster and standup comedian Joe Rogan recently discussed Ric Flair on a recent episode of his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. Rogan is also a commentator for MMA and broke down the Figure Four lock and referred to the legendary move as “dumb”. Rogan noted that the technique of the move doesn’t make sense when applied to real-life fighting.

A bunch of [pro] wrestlers got mad at me… I was trying to explain how dumb a figure-four leg lock was because I was like he was literally giving up an inside heel hook.

Inside heel hook is one of the most devastating submission techniques because once someone gets it the time you have to tap is so small before your knee gets ripped apart and so, a Figure-four leg lock you’ll never see in a jiu-jitsu competition.

It doesn’t work. It’s funny in that regard, you know, you are doing this thing but this thing in the real world is the worst thing you do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CquuH5Waln8

H/T: LowKickMMA

Sami Zayn Comments on Tension with Jey Uso in The Bloodline: “It’s Getting Kinda Weird”

The storyline of Sami Zayn becoming a member of The Bloodline has captivated the WWE Universe.

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns recently anointed Sami Zayn as the official Honorary Uce of The Bloodline and presented him with a new shirt. Sami was overcome with joy and celebrated with every member of The Bloodline besides Jey Uso.

Jey Uso is no fan of the Honorary Uce but has been instructed by The Tribal Chief to make things work. Time will tell if the tensions rise to a boiling point.

Sami Zayn Comments on Issues with Jey Uso

Sami Zayn and The Enforcer of The Bloodline Solo Sikoa appeared on WWE’s The Bump today. The Honorary Uce admitted that things are starting to get a little weird with Jey Uso. Zayn added that he has known The Usos for a decade and has always gotten along with them prior to him being named an Honorary Uce.

It’s getting kinda weird with Jey, because we used to get along great. I’ve known them [The Usos] for 10 years; we’ve always got along like peas in a pod. But this time around things are a little different, he [Jey] is a little different…. In the last 9 or 10 years, whatever it is, I’ve never known him to be like this, so snappy and so angry.

The 38-year-old added that many fans don’t realize that they have been working well together as of late. Sami noted that when they are typically on the same page when they are ringside for each others’ matches.

There is one thing though, that people fail to acknowledge with Jey. If you watch during the matches; when I’m out for his matches and he’s out during mine, we are kinda on the same page more often than not. Because when it comes to actually taking care of The Bloodline business, that’s what kinda brings us together.

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

Jim Cornette on Maximum Male Models in WWE: “The Worst Idea Anybody Has Ever Had”

LA Knight debuted on the main roster as Max Dupri, manager of Maximum Male Models.

The character and the group didn’t get over with fans and now Max Dupri is no more. Following Vince McMahon’s resignation from the company, several released stars have returned to the company and some had their names changed.

LA Knight has exited Maximum Male Models and now has his sights set on becoming a star on WWE SmackDown. He defeated Mansoor of MMM this past Friday night and warned the locker room in a promo after the match.

Jim Cornette on LA Knight’s Match and Promo on SmackDown

Wrestling legend Jim Cornette shared his thoughts on LA Knight’s match and promo this past Friday on a recent edition of the Jim Cornette Experience. Cornette said that Mace and Mansoor have to be embarrassed at this point to be a part of Maximum Male Models.

The thing about LA Knight is, I like the fact that they realize they’ve committed a crime against nature. Changing his name to Max Dupri, the whole male model thing, Mace and Mansoor, and by the way those guys have to be so embarrassed. They’re going out on TV looking like that and doing that s***.

Jim commented on LA Knight’s promo after his victory over Mansoor and said he expects WWE to never mention his involvement with MMM ever again.

He cuts the promo as LA Knight and he did a new catchphrase and blah blah blah. I expect they’ll just never mention this again. But you know me, I’ve got the OCD.

And I would have had to have given LA Knight some reason to impart to the people why he did this. To obviously put it to bed, get over it, it was the worst idea anybody has ever had. But what was the reason he went along with it for three weeks?

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

3 Reasons to Love WWE’s New Premium Live Events Strategy

WWE has canceled its Day 1 Premium Live Event and is expected to make more changes in 2023. It was reported over the weekend by Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer that WWE may be moving away from gimmick PLEs next year to focus on international events.

Here are three reasons WWE switching up its strategy for Premium Live Events is a good thing:

The Potential For New Fans

WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H has already laid out his vision for NXT in multiple interviews. The Game noted that he wants NXT to expand into an “almost World Cup scenario“, with brands like NXT Europe, NXT Australia, NXT South America, etc. NXT UK was shut down this year but the company will be launching NXT Europe in 2023.

It makes sense for his vision for WWE’s developmental system to also be implemented in some fashion on the main roster. The company held its first stadium show in the UK in over thirty years in September with WWE Clash at the Castle. The Premium Live Event attracted over 60,000 fans to Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. There are markets all around the world that will be overjoyed to see WWE live.

The long-term goal in that is to be in markets all around the world. With products that eventually can be competing against each other, world cup type scenarios, that are feeding into RAW, and to SmackDown, and to WrestleMania.

The Demand Is There

The shows in Saudi Arabia and Clash at the Castle have proven that WWE fans will come to the arena all around the world. Crown Jewel will air on November 5th from Mrsool Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Mrsool Park has a seating capacity of 25,000. For comparison, Survivor Series will be held at the TD Garden with less than 20,000 tickets available for purchase. Survivor Series is one of the most recognizable Premium Live Events to fans but Crown Jewel will likely earn more money for the company.

WWE held the Elimination Chamber PLE at the Jeddah Super Dome earlier this year with 33,328 in attendance. The company has a global audience, with transcendent stars like Roman Reigns that will instantly draw fans. The inclusion of celebrities like Logan Paul only brings more fans to the product as young people from all over the planet follow the 27-year-old.

Another market that WWE will likely be focusing on is India. The hashtag #SearchForMerch recently went viral as there is no option to purchase official WWE merchandise in India at the moment. Triple H responded to the hashtag and told fans “we hear you”. It feels like it is a good time to try and expand the audience when there are viral campaigns to be able to buy your merchandise.

Reserve The Gimmick Matches

Extreme Rules aired this past weekend and the card featured six gimmick matches. There was an Extreme Rules match, a Ladder match, a Strap match, an I Quit match, a Donnybrook, and a Fight Pit match.

While many fans enjoyed the show, there were definitely some that found it to be overkill. In other words, there’s an issue when the gimmick matches don’t feel special. Hell in a Cell used to be reserved to feuds that have become some personal, the two wrestlers needed to be locked inside a steel structure to sort out their differences.

Now, the feuds leading up to the Hell in a Cell PLE rarely reach the level of animus required for the stipulation to mean anything. A HIAC match should be special, and it instantly isn’t when there are multiple of them on the same show. Plus, the more gimmick matches you have, the quicker the audience will get tired of seeing it.

Cody Rhodes battled Seth Rollins at WWE Hell in a Cell earlier this year in June. It was the third time the two had faced each other in 2022 and The American Nightmare emerged victorious in all three. Rhodes went into the match with a torn pectoral and showed off the gruesome injury before the bell.

The Hell in a Cell stipulation added to the match tremendously given the brutal nature of Cody’s injury. It was also fitting that they battled inside the steel structure because their rivalry had been going on for months. The potential change in strategy in regard to Premium Live Events allows WWE to expand its audience while reserving gimmick matches for the rivalries that truly deserve them.

AEW Issues Statement on Hangman Page Injury & Provides Health Update

Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Adam Page in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.

It was a special Tuesday night edition of Dynamite in Moxley’s hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. Moxley was in control of the match at the Heritage Bank Center and connected with a Clothesline that knocked Hangman Page to the mat.

Hangman seemed to land awkwardly and the match was cut short due to injury. The former AEW World Champion was stretchered out of the arena after the medical staff had to loosen to the bottom rope to get Hangman out of the ring.

AEW Releases Statement On The Hangman Page Injury

A couple of hours after Dynamite went off the air, All Elite Wrestling released a statement about Hangman Page’s injury. He suffered a concussion and was taken to the trauma center at the hospital. Page was discharged from the hospital but will remain in AEW’s concussion protocol for the time being.

You can read the full statement below:

Hangman Adam Page was taken tonight by medical personnel to a Cincinnati trauma center and diagnosed with a concussion.

He was discharged, but will remain in AEW’s concussion protocol.

AEW and Hangman Page are grateful for the exemplary response and care of staff and local medical personnel, and are appreciative of the love and support of fans everywhere.

What Happened With Jon Moxley After AEW Dynamite Went Off The Air

Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Adam Page in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.

It was a special Tuesday night edition of the show in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jon was in control of the title match and hit Page with a Clothesline. Hangman appeared to land wrong during the spot and the match was cut short. Hangman was stretchered out of the arena and Moxley was named the winner.

After the match, Jon Moxley called out MJF for a title match tonight. MJF made his way to the ring but announced that he will cash in his chip at AEW Full Gear next month. Maxwell and William Regal had some choice words for each other earlier on the show.

https://twitter.com/TranquiloSZN/status/1582552149950504963?s=20&t=z2Q-v3ScHt9BDyQpj_02Hg

What Happened After Dynamite Went Off The Air?

AEW World Champion Jon Moxley didn’t just have to deal with MJF after his title match, another member of the roster confronted him. Ryan Nemeth, the brother of WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler, confronted him. Ryan and Dolph are from Cleveland, Ohio and mocked Cincinnati as “Cleveland Jr.”.Moxley poked fun at Nemeth for looking like his bortherDolph Ziggler and Claudio Castagnoli got him in the Swing.

Moxley joked about the sound system not working at the arena and put the responsibility on a member of the security team to make sure it is fixed for when they come back. Jonvowed to keep coming back to Cincinnati until they make it the hottest wrestling city. Jon then took a bunch of photos with the fans in attendance at the Heritage Bank Center.

AEW & WWE Stars React to Hangman Page Injury on Dynamite

Hangman Adam Page suffered an injury during the main event of tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite.

It was a special Tuesday night edition of the show, airing from AEW World Champion Jon Moxley’s hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. Hangman started off the match in control and connected with a Moonsault while the two were battling in the crowd.

The action returned to the ring and the champion battled back. Moxley connected with a Clothesline during the match and Hangman appeared to land wrong on the canvas. PWInsider recently reported that Page is being evaluated at a local hospital.

AEW & WWE Stars React To Hangman Page’s Injury

Former WWE Champion Big E is currently recovering from a neck injury and said that he will be praying for Hangman Page.

MJF echoed similar sentiments after Dynamite went off the air. Maxwell and Jon Moxley had an impromptu promo after the injury and it was announced that they will face each other for the title in the main event of Full Gear.

Mick Foley and former WWE star James Ellsworth wished Hangman well.

https://twitter.com/RealMickFoley/status/1582556630637420545?s=20&t=vvwT9F_DdLGEJak_ak_1Kw

Former WWE Superstar and current AEW star Matt Hardy sent out a photo of the two wrestling together at Dynamite: Breach Break.

Former WWE star Chris Nowinski sent positive thoughts to Hangman Page and noted that this was not a high-risk move. He also complimented referee Bryce Remsberg and AEW doctor Michael Sampson for treating Hangman within moments.

Former AEW star and Dark Order member Alan Angels said Hangman Page is one of the most genuine guys in the locker room. Dark Order’s John Silver sent out a message as well.

The Firm’s Lee Moriarty sent love to Hangman Page as well.

https://twitter.com/theleemoriarty/status/1582560435848753152?s=20&t=u_JB2CYXqDhI_PcG8AtT5Q

Saraya, formerly known in WWE as Paige, also sent out a message to Hangman.

SEScoops will provide updates on Hangman Page’s injury when available.

Big E Sends Message to Hangman Page After Scary Injury on AEW Dynamite

Hangman Adam Page wrestled Jon Moxley for the AEW World Championship in the main event of this week’s Dynamite.

The match kicked off with a bang and the two stars battled into the crowd. Hangman connected with a Moonsault and was in control as Dynamite went to a break.

After the break, the match continued back and forth for several minutes before the AEW World Champion connected with a Clothesline. Hangman had a rough fall and landed awkwardly on the canvas.

Hangman was stretchered out and MJF came to the ring at the conclusion of the show. Maxwell announced that he will be cashing in his chip for his title match against Jon Moxley at Full Gear on November 19th. Moxley wanted to have the match tonight but MJF said he wanted to beat Jon Moxley on his own when he is 110% at the PPV.

https://twitter.com/SteveFall/status/1582551611934580736?s=20&t=q1z0vLs4z5eJDgMWKyYf0w

Big E Wishes Hangman Page Well After His Injury

Former WWE Champion Big E has been out of action for months after suffering a scary neck injury earlier this year. The Brawling Brutes’ Ridge Holland connected with a Suplex outside the ring but Big E landed on his head.

The 36-year-old is recovering well and has made numerous appearances outside of WWE since the injury. He is scheduled to be reevaluated in March, a year after to the injury to assess if he can get back into the ring.

Big E took to Twitter to send a message to Hangman Page after the scary injury during tonight’s Dynamite main event.

Praying for Hangman.

8 Takeaways From AEW Dynamite (10/18): MJF & William Regal, Jon Moxley vs. Hangman Page, Full Gear

AEW Dynamite aired live tonight from the Heritage Bank Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Hometown hero Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Adam Page tonight in the main event.

Dynamite Results

  • Death Triangle def. Best Friends & Orange Cassidy to retain the Trios Championships
  • Toni Storm def. Hikaru Shida to retain the AEW Women’s Interim Championship
  • Chris Jericho def. Dalton Castle to retain the ROH World Championship
  • Jon Moxley def. Hangman Page to retain the AEW World Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Death Triangle Retained The Trios Championships

Death Triangle defended the Trios Championships against Best Friends & All-Atlantic Champion Orange Cassidy. Best Friends and Cassidy controlled the match early and isolated Rey Fenix in the middle of the ring. Pac and Pentagon Jr. broke it up and sent the babyfaces out of the ring. Death Triangle hit a triple Suicide Dive as the crowd cheered. Death Triangle controlled the next few minutes and took turns beating Cassidy down as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Fenix connected with a Double Stomp and an Arm Drag. Trent tagged in and planted Rey with a Tornado DDT in the corner of the ring. Trent planted Pentagon with a Piledriver and Best Friends shared a hug in the middle of the ring as the crowd popped.

Cassidy climbed onto Trent and Chuck’s shoulders and hit a Splash onto Penta. Pac got into the ring and started delivering kicks to faces. Pac tagged himself in and once again grabbed the timekeeper’s hammer. Rey Fenix argued with Pac in the ring about the hammer and ripped it away from him. Cassidy rolled up Pac for a near fall before connecting with the Orange Punch.

Trent Beretta tagged in and blocked a Destroyer from Pentagon. Chuck caught Penta with a Dropkick but turned around into a Cutter from Fenix. Rey tagged in and booted Trent in the face. Fenix followed it up with a Piledriver of his own for the pinfall victory. Death Triangle are still the Trios Champions.

Toni Storm Retained The AEW Interim Women’s Championship, Riho Returned

Britt Baker, Jamie Hayter, and Rebel cut a backstage promo tonight and claimed that one of them will be the AEW Women’s Champion in the near future.

Toni Storm then defended the AEW Interim Women’s Championship against Hikaru Shida. Storm perched Shida up on the top turnbuckle and went for a move but the challenger escaped. Shida hit Double Knees off the top rope and followed it up with a Gutwrench Suplex for a near fall. Toni battled back and hit Storm Zero for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Britt Baker, Rebel, and Hayter attacked Toni Storm. Saraya and Riho made the save to end the segment.

FTR vs. Swerve In Our Glory Set For Next Week’s Dynamite, Jay Lethal & Darby Allin

Renee noted that FTR are currently the #1 contenders for the AEW Tag Team Championships. FTR said that they want to be the greatest tag team of all-time.

Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler added that the AEW World Tag Team Championships are the ultimate goal moving forward. Swerve Strickland and Keith Lee interrupted and said that FTR have put every other company before AEW as of late and do not deserve a title shot. Dax suggested a match next week between the two teams to determine the #1 contenders.

Sonya Dutt, Jay Lethal, and Darby Allin were interviewed backstage. Sonjay and Jay wound up brutally attacking Allin after challenging him to rematch.

MJF Confronted William Regal

Tony Schiavone was set to interview Blackpool Combat Club’s William Regal but was quickly interrupted by MJF. Maxwell got a huge pop from the crowd and told Regal to put the brass knuckles away because he is here to talk.

MJF said that Regal owes him the time to tell a story. Maxwell told the crowd to bare with him and they booed. Maxwell

When he was 19 years old, he was pulled to the side at Create a Pro by his trainers Pat Buck and Brian Myers. They told him that he got a gig in WWE as an extra and drove to the Barclay’s Center.

Maxwell noted that the extras were greeted by Sir William Regal and he told them that they will have a try out matches before the show. MJF added that Arn Anderson, Dean Malenko, Adam Pearce, and William Regal watched the match.

MJF shouted that he wasn’t fighting for a contract, he was fighting for his life because professional wrestling is his life. After his match, Regal brought MJF to a separate room and gave him three minutes to sell himself. After the three minutes, Regal told MJF that he was going to get him a job in WWE.

Regal then asked how old MJF was and he said “19”. Maxwell claimed that Regal said “kid, you are much too young” and his dreams evaporated. The crowd loudly chanted “you f*cked up!” at Regal.

MJF added that Regal put his name on Claudio Castagnoli, Bryan Danielson, and Jon Moxley, and told MJF that he sees something in you. Regal told Maxwell to go home, work his ass off, send William a match and a promo.

He called Regal a “son of a bitch” and pulled out his phone to read an email from William years ago. “Max, I’m a very busy man, and I’ve just had to sit for minutes watching you “show me your acting” skills” and that WWE exclusively hires the best athletes. Regal smirked as MJF shouted that Regal tried to squandered his dream.

MJF claimed that email made him want to kill himself and regrouped for a moment in the corner. Maxwell called Regal a “sad withered old man” that got fired and snuck into AEW like a “flea-ridden rat”. Friedman shouted that he’s a generational talent and WWE will be willing to “take several human lives” to sign him in 2024.

Friedman added that Regal has become nothing more than a joke and he’s about to become the AEW World Champion because he’s better than you and you know it. MJF whipped down the microphone as the crowd cheered and Regal just stood in silence.

William Regal grabbed the microphone and told MJF that he was casting him aside and claimed that he wanted to light a fire under him. Regal added that if an email is what MJF has held onto for seven years, then he’s had it easy. William called MJF “sunshine” and mocked him for putting his hands on “Mr. Shiavone”.

Regal told MJF that he’s let him down and all he does is take shortcuts. William turned his back on MJF and told him to show that he’s The Devil. MJF put on the Dynamite Diamond Ring and was about to strike William but couldn’t do it. William said “you still have a lot to prove” and dropped the microphone to end the segment.

The Acclaimed Sent Out A Warning Ahead Of Rampage

AEW World Tag Team Champions The Acclaimed cut a backstage promo on the “Varsity Athletes” Tony Nese and Josh Woods. The Acclaimed will be putting their titles on the line this Friday on Rampage, the “scissoring” trademark will also be on the line in the match. Max Caster and Anthony Bowens vowed to win the match and stomp on Mark Sterlings’ balls.

There Is Friction Within The Blackpool Combat Club

Bryan Danielson and Wheeler Yuta were interviewed by Renee Paquette backstage. Danielson said it sucked to lose to Chris Jericho in his ROH Championship match because the title means a lot to him.

Danielson said he has a lot of high hopes for Daniel Garcia, and he can surpass a lot of things he’s done in his career. Bryan claimed that Garcia can be the best wrestler he’s ever seen with the proper guidance.

Wheeler Yuta wondered how Danielson couldn’t see this coming, while Yuta and Castagnoli saw it coming from a mile away. Bryan mocked Danielson and said “I guess I shouldn’t have met my hero” before storming off.

Chris Jericho Retained, Attacked Jerry Lynn After The Match

Chris Jericho defended the ROH Championship against Dalton Castle tonight on AEW Dynamite. JakeHager and The Boys were ringside. Jericho knocked Castle out of the ring and he regrouped with The Boys for an extended period of time. Castle threw one of The Boys at Jake Hager and then another one flipped onto him.

When Dynamite returned from a break, Castle connected with a running knee strike that sent Chris tumbling out of the ring. Dalton followed it up with a dive through the topes and beat Jericho down against the barricade.

Back in the ring, Jericho hit a Crossbody as The Boys stole Hager’s hat. Jake got angry and beat all The Boys down outside the ring before putting his goofy hat back on. Jericho rolled up Dalton for a near fall and then tried to apply The Walls but Dalton countered into a cradle for a two count.

Dalton then locked in a submission hold in the middle of the ring. Chris started arguing with Aubrey Edward after Dalton reached the ropes and the challenger capitalized with a slam for a two count. Jericho and Castle traded chops from their knees and then battled to their feet.

Jericho leveled Castle with a Clothesline and set up for a Lionsault but Dalton was ready. Dalton caught Jericho and planted him with a German Suplex for a near fall. Chris went for a Codebreaker but Castle countered with his finisher for a near fall. Chris responded with the Judas Effect for the pinfall victory. Chris Jericho is still the Ring of Honor World Champion.

After the match, Jericho went to attack ROH commentator Ian Riccanboni. AEW producer Jerry Lynn broke it up and Chris planted him with a Piledriver on the entrance ramp.

The AEW World Championship Match Was Cut Short Due To Injury, Main Event Announced For Full Gear

Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Hangman Page in the main event of this week’s Dynamite. The match started out with a bang as Hangman hit Moxley with a Moonsault in the crowd before a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Hangman connected with a Fallaway Slam and posed for the crowd. Moxley hopped up and hit the challenger with a Cutter in the middle of the ring. Jon was of course busted open at this point somehow and Hangman locked in a Boston Crab in the middle of the ring as Dynamite went to the final break of the night.

Jon Moxley hit Hangman Page with a Clothesline and the trainer got into the ring to check on the challenger. The match was then stopped short apparently due to injury and Jon Moxley was named the winner.

Jon Moxley spoke after the match and said that he will give Hangman another shot when he’s healthy again. Moxley noted that MJF was talking a lot of “sh*t” and joked that the Yankees didn’t go into extra innings and they still have some TV time. Moxley called out MJF and Maxwell’s music hit.

MJF dragged referee Bryce Remsburg toward the ring and had the chip in his hand. MJF opted to grab the microphone again and told Moxley that he wants him at 110%. Maxwell announced that he is cashing his chip in at Full Gear and called Regal a piece of sh*t. MJF added “for the first time in his miserable life he’s going to earn it” and William laughed. MJF fired up the crowd to close the show.

Moxley joked that they can’t get a microphone to work and the show is going downhill. Jon added that MJF has earned his first going directly up his ass, and his throat being squeezed until his head pops off. Jon added that he will show everyone at Full Gear that it is dangerous getting into the ring with him and he’s the best in the world.

Becky Lynch Appears at Event In New York Without an Arm Brace

Becky Lynch was injured during her match against Bianca Belair at WWE SummerSlam.

The EST avenged her quick defeat against Big Time Becks at last year’s SummerSlam and defeated Lynch to retain the RAW Women’s Championship.

After the match, Damage CTRL (Bayley, IYO SKY, and Dakota Kai) appeared and surrounded the two stars in the middle of the ring. Becky turned babyface and stood by Belair’s side and the heels retreated.

On the next episode of WWE RAW, Damage CTRL attacked Becky backstage as a way to right Lynch off of television as she recovers from a separated shoulder.

Becky Lynch Appears At AW New York

Becky Lynch appeared today during the Advertise Week New York marketing event. The 35-year-old was there to discuss wrestling and was not wearing an arm brace anymore. It was reported earlier today by Fightful Select that Becky is not close to returning to the company from injury.

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During the interview at AW New York, Becky stated that the worst match of her career was the one that she wasn’t nervous for.

I want to get people involved emotionally. How do I want them to feel after this? How do I get them to care? I think when your focus is on the job, on the task at hand, then it is a lot easier to forget about all the extra noise.

All the extra pressure that is on you. Of course, when you are going out there in front of 100,000 people for WrestleMania you are nervous.

But it is a good kind of nervousness. I’ve only ever not been nervous for one match and it was the worst match I ever had. So now any time the nerves get to me I’m like ‘oh this is good’.

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JBL Praises Baron Corbin After WWE RAW: “This Is The Debut Of The Modern Day Wrestling God”

Happy Corbin left in JBL’s limo on the September 3rd edition of SmackDown and made his triumphant return tonight on WWE RAW.

Following Rey Mysterio being moved to SmackDown, it was announced that Corbin was traded to RAW. JBL introduced Baron Corbin tonight and joined commentary for his match against Dolph Ziggler.

JBL hyped up Corbin on commentary and compared him to Michael Jordan as Baron connected with the End of Days on Ziggler for the pinfall victory.

JBL Praises Baron Corbin On RAW Talk

Byron Saxton caught up with JBL and Baron Corbin backstage following the match. Saxton asked why WWE Hall of Famer JBL decided to lend his support to Baron Corbin. JBL said the choice was easy.

This is the emergence, the debut, of the modern-day “Wrestling God”. The era of dominance, this man is a cornerstone. This is what you build a company on. So this has nothing to do with my return.

I came back for one reason, and one reason only, and that is because this man is here. There is a lot of people out there you think ‘oh, I could be that guy’. You can’t be him. So ask him the questions because that is the man.

Saxton asked Corbin how it felt to have JBL’s support in his career and Baron said anything is possible with the Hall of Famer’s guidance. Corbin added that landscape has officially changed to end the interview.

How do you think it feels? I went out there on Monday Night RAW on my first night and I dominated Dolph Ziggler.

With this man’s guidance, his wisdom, he’s a Hall of Famer and he’s passing this stuff onto me. The sky? There is no limit.

We are changing the game. Like he said, a modern-day “Wrestling God”. The landscape has officially changed.

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit RAW Talk and give a H/T to SEScoops.