SEScoops

Author: Steve Russell

  • AJ Lee Hired To Co-Write New GLOW Comic Book Series

    AJ Lee Hired To Co-Write New GLOW Comic Book Series

    Former WWE Divas Champion, and New York Times Bestseller, AJ Lee has been hired to help bring Netflix’s GLOW to the world of comic books. The third season of the ’80s based show was recently released on the streaming service.

    According to The Hollywood Reporter, AJ Lee will be co-writing ‘GLOW vs The Babyface’ alongside actress Aimee Garcia (Dexter, Lucifer). Hannah Templer will be providing art for the series.

    Speaking on her new writing position, Lee said:

    “As huge fans of the Netflix series, Aimee and I are thrilled and honored to get our hands on the ladies of GLOW. Aimee’s experience in acting and my experience in pro-wrestling makes us a formidable tag team with a unique perspective to truly channel the voices of these hilarious heroines. Our mission as writing partners is to represent diverse, complex, and unbreakable female characters, which is why GLOW feels like the perfect fit.”

    Garcia added, “I’m a huge fan of GLOW. I grew up reading comics and never saw myself represented in them, so I’m excited to explore these trailblazing characters and create the change for the next generation. AJ and I are basically writing for our younger selves.”

    The first issue of the GLOW comic book will be released by IDW this November.

  • Jack Swagger Talks About Balancing MMA and Pro Wrestling, Which Incurs More Expenses

    Jack Swagger Talks About Balancing MMA and Pro Wrestling, Which Incurs More Expenses

    Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Jack Swagger, has spoken about the differences between travelling the world as a WWE Superstar compared to as a mixed martial artist.

    Catching up with the WINCLY podcast, Swagger, who currently competes in Bellator, admitted that when he initially left WWE in 2017, he wanted to balance pro wrestling with his MMA ambitions.

    “When I left WWE in 2017, this was the plan. We could see pro wrestling really rising and becoming more popular, so it was a good opportunity to leave and do both,” said Swagger. “The MMA team has been great and have been accommodating with my schedule. We have lulls when we don’t wrestle, and we go harder and then times where I’m working on the [wrestling] shows.

    “They’ve been on board the whole time and understood what I’m trying to do as no one else is doing both – pro wrestling and MMA actively. It’s an exciting time.”

    Travel Expenses

    When it comes to the differences between sports entertainment and the world of MMA, Swagger admitted that the toll of excessive traveling was worse as a WWE Superstar. When asked which career incurred more expenses, Swagger responded:

    “Definitely WWE because they are on the road for 200-300 shows a year. So, all of the road expenses, car rentals, hotels, meals, gym memberships, bottles of water – it adds up, and then you take a big chunk out for taxes.”

    In between competing for Bellator, Swagger was a part of Lucha Underground. He would win the Gift Of The Gods Championship as well as the Lucha Underground Championship during his time with the promotion. 

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

  • News On Mauro Ranallo’s NXT Future Following USA Announcement

    News On Mauro Ranallo’s NXT Future Following USA Announcement

    WWE has officially announced that NXT will be debuting on USA Network. Thankfully, it appears as though their announce team will be moving with them come September.

    According to Dave Meltzer via Wrestling Observer Radio, the current broadcast team of Mauro Ranallo, Nigel McGuinness, and Beth Phoenix will continue to host NXT after it extends to its two-hour time slot.

    Meltzer hinted at the history that exists between Mauro Ranallo and Vince McMahon. He stressed that, at this point in time, Vince is not expected to be at these Wednesday night shows. This is apparently a contributing factor in having Ranallo continue as the lead commentator of the NXT team. 

    If Vince McMahon were to change his mind, deciding to become more involved as NXT competes with All Elite Wrestling, things may inevitably change.

    It was only recently speculated that, if NXT were to end up on the USA Network, there would be no way that Vince McMahon would be able to be “hands-off.“

    But for now, the WWE Universe will be able to continue enjoying the commentary from NXT’s announce team, led by Mauro Ranallo’s passionate contributions.

    NXT on USA Network will debut on September 18th at 8/7 C.

  • Kevin Owens Discusses Shane McMahon Feud, His Version Of The Stunner

    Kevin Owens Discusses Shane McMahon Feud, His Version Of The Stunner

    Kevin Owens has shared his thoughts on his feud with Shane McMahon in a recent interview with Sporting News. He also addressed his usage of the Stunner, and how he views his version of it versus “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s.

    When it comes to Shane McMahon, Owens believes that, despite the current length of their feud, the two still have avenues to explore together. 

    “I kind of expected it to keep going just because Shane, he’s obviously not going anywhere because of who he is,” Owens said. “I’m not surprised that we’re going to keep going. I feel like there’s still avenues to go. There’s still stuff we can do together, so we’ll see what happens.”

    He explained that playing a good guy in their feud has helped add a different element to their rivalry. The key thing Owens has relished is the change this new dynamic has given him.

    “It feels good just because it’s different. I was doing the same thing for a long time and it was great, but change is always good, I think. And trying to keep things different and interesting in wrestling is pretty important. I’m just glad to be doing something that feels different and is more stimulating for me and I think the fans, the audience, is reacting very well to it so we’re doing something right and hopefully it keeps going that way.”

    Stunner

    Insofar as how Owens views his version of the move synonymous with “The Rattlesnake,” Owens admitted that he doesn’t know how to describe it.

    “Obviously, it’s big shoes to fill, right? Not that I’m trying to be in Steve’s shoes, but when you’re doing a move that’s been so iconic for so long, it’s hitting right and it’s working well,” he said. “The crowd reaction is always really cool to it. It’s nice to almost be able to bring it back just because I remember how it used to make me feel when he’d hit it and how exciting it was visually and all that stuff. I’m just trying to do right by it, I guess.”

    Owens recently defeated Shane McMahon during their matchup at WWE’s SummerSlam pay-per-view.

  • R-Truth Wants To Be Remembered As “The Greatest All-Around Entertainer In The World”

    R-Truth Wants To Be Remembered As “The Greatest All-Around Entertainer In The World”

    R-Truth has helped elevate the 24/7 Championship with his constant commitment and willingness to entertain the fans, no matter what is asked of him. 

    Speaking with City Pages, R-Truth looked back on conversing with Little Jimmy and his love of entertaining the WWE Universe. He also shared what he wants to be remembered for.

    When it came to the invisible Little Jimmy, Truth believed that the fans were able to accept Jimmy because of R-Truth’s character. He stated that thanks to the fans acceptance of him, R-Truth can “get away with pretty much anything.”

    For him, however, it always comes down to entertaining the WWE Universe and helping them have a good time. 

    “I just liked entertaining people, man. I like the feeling it gives me,” Truth said. “I was performing when I was in middle school, being the class clown. I like laughter. I like humor. I like positive, good things, and entertainment is just positive.”

    This drive to entertain ties in with how he’d like to be remembered by the fans when he decides to retire. For him, he’d like to be remembered as the “greatest all-around entertainer in the world” adding that, for now, he can “[…] still go in the ring. I can go on the mic. And I can entertain. I am the best. Just to sum it up, period.”

    Just last night, R-Truth attempted to regain his “baby,” the 24/7 Championship from current champion, Elias:

  • Sheamus Addresses Retirement Rumors

    Sheamus Addresses Retirement Rumors

    During a recent international promotional tour for WWE, Sheamus participated in a Q+A session in Manila, Philippines. This was done to promote WWE Live Events taking place in the country in September. 

    During the Q+A session itself, Sheamus was asked about the retirement rumors that have been circulating him since his injury forced him out of in-ring action. 

    “I don’t know what the story is in my future,” Sheamus admitted. “I have no idea, I honestly don’t. I just know that I like have some time off, but I do miss being in the ring.”

    https://www.facebook.com/BryboysHuddle/videos/wwe-star-sheamus-in-manila-august-15-2019/497395227501738/

    Grand Slam Goals

    If The Celtic Warrior does return, he already has an opponent in mind. He also has clear championship aspirations. 

    The Superstar he would love to face off against is none other than The Beast Incarnate, Brock Lesnar. The championship? The Intercontinental title. 

    “If I get back to the ring, that would be the first thing I would go after. As of now I am still listed as a SmackDown superstar and the title is on SmackDown. But as of now, I have no access to the title but its definitely the one I want,” he explained.

    The Intercontinental championship is the only one to have eluded Sheamus during his tenure in WWE. If he were to win the Intercontinental champion, the victory would see him become a WWE Grand Slam champion.

  • Trish Stratus Reflects On SummerSlam Match, Calls It A Passing Of The Torch

    Trish Stratus Reflects On SummerSlam Match, Calls It A Passing Of The Torch

    Trish Stratus recently returned to in-ring action against Charlotte Flair at WWE’s SummerSlam pay-per-view. Despite a valiant effort, Stratus would ultimately suffer a submission loss to “The Queen.”

    In a reflective post to Instagram, Stratus admitted she initially believed she was stepping into the ring for her comeback match. However, she soon realized her SummerSlam clash was going to be her farewell match instead. 

    Stratus called her bout with Charlotte a “passing of the proverbial torch,” adding that “It was an honour and a privilege to step into the ring with @charlottewwe, one of the very best of her era, a total pro.” 

    Trish then expressed her gratitude to the current roster of women in WWE for allowing her to return, if only to “dip” her toes into the current waters.

    The former Women’s Champion then ruminated on her pro wrestling journey as she recalled:

    “In the beginning of my career, I set out to knock down the preconceived notion of what a female could do in this male oriented business and the current roster of ladies represent everything we dreamed of. If we laid the platform, you all have built a friggin skyscraper and we all couldn’t be prouder!”

    You can read her full post below:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1VCcvSlmTJ/?utm_source=ig_embed
  • Matt Taven Talks About Alex Shelley Influencing Him And His Career

    Matt Taven Talks About Alex Shelley Influencing Him And His Career

    A few weeks ago, Ring Of Honor (ROH) wrestler Matt Taven successfully defended his ROH World Championship against a returning Alex Shelley.

    In an interview with Wrestling Inc. prior to their matchup at ROH Summer Supercard, Taven spoke about Shelley and what it means to him to be wrestling the former Motor City Machine Gun.

    “Alex Shelley is one of those guys that, when I was getting into wrestling, I was watching Alex Shelley all the time. He’s one of those guys that I modeled my career after because I thought that was the way to do things—going to Mexico and Japan and learning all of these different styles. To me, I don’t think he gets enough credit. People kind of sleep on his legacy,” Taven said.

    He praised Shelley’s contributions to pro wrestling, adding that their match was a huge opportunity to prove himself against a competitor he has “nothing but respect for.”

    However, since winning the ROH World Championship back in April during the G1 Supercard, Taven has claimed he has been so busy defending the belt, he hasn’t been able to enjoy the fact he is champion.

    He admitted that “[…] this is what I’ve wanted, and this is the position I’ve wanted. As much as I jokingly say this is stressful, this is where I’ve always pictured myself. Now I’m about to defend it in Toronto against a guy I used to watch. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

  • Santino Marella Reflects On WWE Debut, His Lack Of Ego Helping Him To Stand Out

    Santino Marella Reflects On WWE Debut, His Lack Of Ego Helping Him To Stand Out

    When Santino Marella debuted for WWE, winning the Intercontinental Championship in the process, he was billed as being from Italy. Although he is of Italian descent, the former Superstar was actually born in Ontario, Canada.

    Catching up with Lilian Garcia for her podcast, Chasing Glory, Marella discussed his impressive Italian debut. He also spoke about how his lack of ego helped him gain popularity.

    Milan Miracle

    Marella recalled learning basic Italian phrases while stuck in horrific Toronto traffic during his daily 115-minute commute. Turns out these phrases would help change his life.

    “I didn’t really learn to speak Italian, but I can say things on the tape so when they [WWE] called me and asked me to say something in Italian I just said ‘I want to buy a half kilo of cheese’ in Italian. It was on the tape. I can hear them looking around with each other and thinking that it sounded pretty good even though they don’t know what I had said, so that was it. I had said another phrase and they were sold.”

    He continued, “They flew me to Italy and me winning the IC title had [been planned] the night before… I got the phone call Friday, flew out Saturday, landed Sunday and debuted Monday, so it was a crazy whirlwind of, like, ‘what just happened here?’ I didn’t even really believe it until it happened. I didn’t want to almost believe it and then something changes last minute, but it happened, and that was it.”

    No Ego

    Synonymous with comedy sketches and matches, Santino believes that his lack of ego helped him grow as a WWE Superstar.

    “[…] one of the things that made me different was that I wasn’t one of those guys that had a massive ego and I think that was what was refreshing for even some people. For example a lot of the guys I am the wives’ favorite, or I am someone’s grandmother’s favorite because everyone is putting on that macho, badass cool guy and this guy isn’t trying to do that. He is just going out and having fun and being silly which is what made me stand out as a character and as a person too.”

    Santino Marella is currently scheduled to appear at GCW’s BloodSport II event on September 14th. He will be competing under his real name, Anthony Carelli.

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

  • Brie Bella Credits Wrestling For Helping Her Business Mentality, Discusses Future Ambitions

    Brie Bella Credits Wrestling For Helping Her Business Mentality, Discusses Future Ambitions

    Brie Bella has opened up about the number of projects her and her twin sister, Nikki, have been up to since retiring from in-ring competition.

    The two recently discussed the upcoming fifth season of their reality show, Total Bellas, with Brie describing it as the next chapter of their lives, post-WWE. 

    In an interview with TVInsider.com, Brie spoke about her current ambitions and what the future holds for the twins. 

    Bella Businesses

    The Bella Twins have several businesses they are currently running. Alongside their wine company, they have their clothing brand, Birdiebee, a successful podcast, and are even working on a book, which is scheduled for 2020. 

    Brie credits the work ethic they apply to these projects to their time in WWE.

    “It’s such a different life now for me, but it’s still as satisfying as being a WWE superstar. I just think my sister and I with Birdiebee and Nicole and Brizee, all our companies were startups. The one thing my sister and I, and thank you Vince McMahon, for being our boss, have taken is our branding. [Business] is the same as in wrestling in not only branding but hard work. You have to work 24/7 every day. I really think we got that work ethic from wrestling.”

    She continued, “[…] when you are an entrepreneur creating and starting companies, your biggest goal is to sell them in the end. We work really hard to keep our brand going strong and constantly think of new creative ideas. Our biggest thing what we’re working on now is connecting all our companies. As business owners, we’re trying to think of steps ahead and grow our company.”

    “Nicole and I will be 36 in November. We always say by 40 [she] and I would be living in Napa Valley with our family. That’s the five-year plan: by then have a couple of companies sold, my own vineyard and [be] living in Napa Valley.”

    Total Bellas Season 5 will debut on E! in early 2020 and will consist of 10 hour-long episodes.

  • CaZXL Talks About Jon Moxley, The Difference Between WWE And Indie Wrestling

    CaZXL Talks About Jon Moxley, The Difference Between WWE And Indie Wrestling

    CaZXL, formerly known as WWE Superstar Big Cass, has spoken about his relationship with All Elite Wrestling’s Jon Moxley, and the differences between WWE and the independent wrestling scene.

    Speaking with WrestleZone, CaZXL recalled meeting Moxley, previously known as WWE’s Dean Ambrose, during their time together in developmental. 

    He explained the two would ride to shows together for approximately two years when they were a part of FCW, admitting that Moxley “educated” him early on about how the indie wrestling scene works. 

    At the time, he didn’t feel he would need any of that information. Now, however, it’s a different story. 

    The two recently faced off in a match for Northeast Wrestling. This was actually the first time the two have wrestled one another as opponents.

    “I’ve never been across the ring from him which is crazy that we were in the same company for that long and had never faced each other, not even in a practice match in FCW.”

    Difference Between WWE And The Indies

    Although the journeys between shows are similar between the indie and WWE life, CaZXL is quick to pinpoint a defining difference: freedom. 

    “You have a lot more freedom, so you can experiment a little bit more on the indies. And you don’t have time constraints, and you don’t have character constraints, so you can try something out and it sucked, and you’re like, ‘Well, not doing that again.’ Or you can try something out and it gets over, and you’re like, ‘Alright, I’m going to try that again tomorrow and see if it works,’ and if it keeps working, then you stick with it,” he explained.

    “So there’s a lot more experimentation you can deal with on the indies which is really cool ’cause it can help you develop further as character and as a performer.”

  • Matt Hardy Wants To Finish His Career As Broken Matt

    Matt Hardy Wants To Finish His Career As Broken Matt

    Matt Hardy has opened up about wanting to end his career in as a creative and productive way as possible. This extends to once again inhabiting the Broken Matt persona.

    His confession stemmed from a recent poll he uploaded via Twitter, asking fans if they enjoyed The Ultimate Deletion. He explained that he has some “hard decisions” to make in the next few months and that fan opinions matter to him, hence the public voting.

    With a total of 7,016 votes, 95% of people voted “YES, it was WONDERFUL!”

    “I Would Love To Be Broken Matt There”

    After a fan asked him to go back to being Broken Matt, Hardy replied: “That is my desire.” 

    When another fan asked if Hardy could actually use the gimmick in WWE now that he owns the rights, Matt Hardy responded he “absolutely can” and that doing so is how he wants to finish his career. 

    Hardy explained, “I’m very appreciative of the @WWE & will forever be grateful to them for giving me my first break. I would love to be #BROKEN Matt there & actually stay true to the origins of the persona & fantastical stories.”

    He also added that he would love to have Brother Nero by his side if given a chance to bring his Broken persona to WWE in the way he envisions. 

  • Breezango Discuss Returning To NXT, Finding Their Groove Again

    Breezango Discuss Returning To NXT, Finding Their Groove Again

    Breezango made their successful television return to the squared circle last week during an episode of NXT. The pair successfully defeated the team of Steve Cutler and Wesley Black from The Forgotten Sons.
     
    Fandango and Tyler Breeze now call the black-and-gold brand their home after time on WWE’s main roster. With Fandango having returned from surgery and reunited with Breeze, the duo discussed what it’s been like for them since joining NXT. 

    Fandango explained how the two have been teaming for a few weeks at NXT Live Events before their matchup against The Forgotten Sons, which took place before NXT TakeOver: Toronto.

    “Being a singles competitor is one thing, you got your timing down, your cardio down,” Fandango said. “But the timing of a tag team match is totally different. Not only do you have to be in sync with your opponents, but you got another guy in your corner that you gotta work with.”

    Tyler Breeze added, “It’s fun kind of finding the groove again, especially after 13 months. It was hard for me. I mean all of a sudden, we’re together for what, a couple of years, take him [Fandango] out of there, I’m kind of floating on my own, trying to figure out what I’m doing again.”

    The team confessed they don’t think their rivalry with The Forgotten Sons is over, anticipating that their victory may just be the start of a long-running feud between the teams. 

  • Bella Twins Reveal Details About The Next Season Of Total Bellas

    Bella Twins Reveal Details About The Next Season Of Total Bellas

    The Bella Twins have revealed details for the upcoming season of their reality series, Total Bellas.

    In a post to her Instagram account, Nikki Bella has shared that her former Dancing with the Stars partner and current boyfriend, Artem Chigvintsev, will be joining the cast for the new season. She accompanied the news with an image of the two embracing.

    “[…] As I start a new amazing journey with @totalbellas and my life, my @theartemc is starting the same,” she explained.

    “I am so excited for him to be on this journey with me. I’m thankful for him to showcase his life, love, ups and downs not only for me but for my Bella Army and my Total Bellas viewers.”

    The post then became reflective as Nikki wrote that “Sometimes we have a door shut and we don’t understand why, but honestly there is always a reason. I have been through that. And not through that just as a break up but through that professionally and personally. And when those other doors open they open SO big!”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1R_akAlB1I/

    “We Are In Our Next Chapter Of Our Life”

    Her twin sister, Brie, also spoke about the forthcoming season to TVInsider.com. 

    Brie admitted that the biggest difference between this season and previous seasons will be that Season 5 features less pro wrestling. Both women are now retired from the ring and are, according to Brie, in the “next chapter of our life.” 

    “You’re going to see cameras capturing Nikki’s retirement and her feelings on it. You’re going to see what happened when meeting the doctors. We both thought we were going back this summer. It’s our next chapter in life, which for me means growing my family. For my sister, it’s being in a new relationship with Artem [Chigvintsev] as a new cast member. He will be filming a lot. My sister is also building a house next door to me. I think it will show us as entrepreneurs.”

    Total Bellas Season 5 will debut on E! in early 2020 and will consist of 10 hour-long episodes.

  • NXT To USA Network: Vince McMahon’s Involvement, Announcement

    NXT To USA Network: Vince McMahon’s Involvement, Announcement

    With the news recently coming out that WWE’s NXT brand could wind up on the USA Network, fans are wondering what this could mean for the black-and-gold shows future.

    Rumors persisted for weeks that NXT may be heading to FS1, joining SmackDown in its move to FOX in October. However, according to Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com, the potential move to USA Network isn’t inspired by money. 

    Instead, it supposedly revolves around Vince McMahon’s competitive nature and fan recognition. He allegedly believes that the USA Network gives him a better shot against competition from All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

    Network Familiarity

    Meltzer stated that Vince McMahon’s reasoning relates to wrestling fans ingrained familiarity with the USA Network.

    He argued that fans are simply not used to FS1, which is more familiar to MMA and UFC fans. Meltzer explained that although people would naturally become adjusted in only two or three weeks, the instant network recognition apparently makes a significant difference to WWE.

    It was stressed that if WWE does bring NXT to the USA Network, there is no way that Vince McMahon would be hands-off with the show.

    The push for NXT to find a new home may see the show leave WWE’s own streaming service entirely. WWE’s decision to do so reportedly lies in the promotion wanting to actively counter-programme against AEW’s TNT October debut.

  • Sonya Deville Recalls Rejected Pitch To Wrestle Ronda Rousey

    Sonya Deville Recalls Rejected Pitch To Wrestle Ronda Rousey

    Sonya Deville has revealed she once pitched a match she believed to be “already written,” only to have it rejected due to time constraints.

    That match would have seen her square off against “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey.

    Speaking with Barnburner Radio, Deville admitted that as soon as Ronda was hired by WWE, she believed a match between them would be considered a natural bout.

    Given the women’s experience with MMA and the training involved, Deville pitched the matchup, believing that there wasn’t any real work to do to hype a confrontation. 

    She spoke with Triple H but was told that they wouldn’t have enough time to build any sort of satisfying feud between the women. This was due to Ronda’s strict, contractual time limit.

    Deville added that she is hoping to get her opportunity against Rousey when she comes back to the ring, believing that the two could do some “special stuff” inside the squared circle, if given a chance.

    Ronda Rousey last wrestled for WWE in the Triple Threat main event of WrestleMania 35. She competed against Becky Lynch and then-SmackDown Women’s Champion, Charlotte Flair. Rousey would ultimately take the loss, allowing Becky Lynch to claim both RAW and SmackDown’s Women’s Championships.

  • Santino Marella Announced For GCW’s BloodSport II

    Santino Marella Announced For GCW’s BloodSport II

    Josh Barnett has revealed that another former WWE Superstar will be a part of Game Changer Wrestling’s upcoming BloodSport II event.

    In a recent Tweet, Barnett shared that former WWE Intercontinental and United States Champion, Santino Marella, is set to appear at the show.

    There is no word on who Santino, whose real name is Anthony Carelli, will be competing against at the event at this point in time.

    “From Judo to Battlearts and MMA, this man has all the credentials for Bloodsport.

    Anthony Carelli is coming to score the ippon Sept 14th.

    Live on @FiteTV@GCWrestling_#Bloodsport @BattleArtsMMA“

    Carelli actually has an extensive history with Judo, having trained in the martial art since he was 9 years old.

    Given that GCW’s BloodSport II intends to be a hard-hitting blend of pro wrestling and mixed martial arts, it appears that the former Santino will fit in nicely with the promotion’s efforts.

    After initially retiring a few years ago, Carelli has since been competing in the odd match. He has competed and appeared for Destiny World Wrestling, Battle Arts Academy, and Impact Wrestling. He recently returned as Santino Marella for a short skit during WWE’s RAW Reunion show.

    BloodSport II takes place on September 14th. It will be available live via FITE TV.

  • More Information On Potential NXT Television Plans

    More Information On Potential NXT Television Plans

    In the past few days, a pitch was allegedly made that would see WWE reportedly move NXT to the USA Network. This follows rumors that the show would be appearing on FS1, alongside SmackDown’s debut on FOX.

    According to PWInsider, the promotion’s plans for the black-and-gold brand would see NXT extend to a live two-hour weekly show. Episodes would still take place primarily in Full Sail University, Florida.

    Notably, the proposed plans would see NXT’s television debut occur on October 2nd—the same day that All Elite Wrestling launches on TNT.

    NXT Runtime

    Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com also commented on the possibility of NXT going live with USA Network.

    He explained that WWE fans are more familiar with watching USA over FS1, which works in USA Network’s favor. He also questioned whether WWE would broadcast live every week or bi-weekly. Apparently, both options have been discussed, but, ultimately, there will be a live element incorporated going forward.

    It’s speculated that if WWE doesn’t remove NXT from the WWE Network, then the show could extend to three hours.

    If this were to happen, two hours would take place live on the USA Network. The third, presumably, would broadcast via the WWE Network. 

    If, however, WWE decided to remove NXT completely from their WWE Network lineup, the question becomes: how are Network subscribers going to feel about it, and will it harm their subscriber count?

  • Supervisor Behind The Fiend’s Mask And Lantern Discusses Collaborating With Bray Wyatt

    Supervisor Behind The Fiend’s Mask And Lantern Discusses Collaborating With Bray Wyatt

    The physical appearance of Bray Wyatt’s Fiend persona still has wrestling fans buzzing since its debut at SummerSlam.

    The unsettling mask would be accompanied that night with a disturbing lantern modelled on Wyatt’s head.

    With its mouth stretched and elongated to hold the light, and its eyes sewn shut, the lantern created an undeniably powerful statement, thanks to the work by Tom Savini Studios.

    Speaking with GameSpot, Savini Studios’ Jason Baker—who is credited as the supervisor of Wyatt’s mask construction—discussed their relationship with WWE, as well as the collaboration process with Wyatt.

    Baker explained that Savini Studios and WWE have a relationship stretching back almost ten years, naming Erik Rowan, Luke Harper, Kallisto, and Stephanie McMahon as some of the Superstars they have previously worked with.

    When it came to the Fiend, however, Baker asserts that Bray deserves all the credit.

    “It’s all Bray’s brainchild,” he said. “He had these ideas, and we did some concept art, but it wasn’t really hitting home with Bray. So he got a really, really good sketch artist named Kyle Scarborough, out of St Louis, to do some concept art for him. Those sketches were awesome, and we took those and brought them to life.”

    “They’re good blueprints, but we put our own stamp on the mask as well,” continues Baker. “It comes down to sculpting, logistics, and comfort. If the guy’s going to wear this while beating the living piss out of people, he should be able to see out of it and make sure it’s strapped to his head.”

    Baker teased that, despite the Firefly Funhouse and Fiend work that has consumed his life, the WWE Universe “haven’t seen anything yet.”

  • Christian Recalls Learning An Important Lesson From “Stone Cold” Steve Austin

    Christian Recalls Learning An Important Lesson From “Stone Cold” Steve Austin

    Christian has revealed a piece of advice he received from “Stone Cold” Steve Austin that helped change his approach towards his matches. 

    Speaking with SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Christian recalled his attitude towards his career at the time. He also described seeking feedback from Austin after an early match in his singles career.

    “For me, early on in my career, […] I think I was smart enough to realize what I was, and that I was never gonna be the biggest guy, I was never gonna be the strongest guy, I was never gonna be the fastest guy,” Christian explained. “So, instead of focusing and trying to be great at one thing, I wanted to be good at everything.” 

    “It’s funny, if I look back at tape of myself now when I first started with WWE, I was like ‘Man, how did I get a job?’ You know, I just wasn’t that good. It just seemed like I was out there trying to put 10 pounds of crap in a 5-pound bag, just trying to do things,” he said.

    Shortly after branching off into singles matches, he asked Austin for some thoughts on a match he believed had gone well. Turns out Austin thought differently.

    “I came back, I sought out Steve, I was like ‘Hey, what did you think?,’ he turns around and looks at me dead in the eyes and says ‘Why don’t you learn how to effin’ sell?’ and walked away. That was a kick in the face, and I was like ‘Wow, like..what?”

    Off this advice, Christian explained how he “went back and I watched a bunch of my tapes, and I was like ‘He’s right.’ I’m registering, but I’m not selling. So I had to fix that part of my game.”

  • The Miz Talks About SmackDown’s 20th Anniversary Show, Playing A Good Guy

    The Miz Talks About SmackDown’s 20th Anniversary Show, Playing A Good Guy

    With SmackDown’s FOX debut set for early October, WWE is hyping the event as much as possible. 

    The company has already released a list of notable names scheduled to appear, and are said to eagerly want Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to feature. 

    In a recent interview with Good Day L.A., The Miz discussed SmackDown’s 20th Anniversary show, which will be the blue brand’s debut show on FOX.

    “You have superstars from past, from present, you have RAW and SmackDown, everyone is going to be there,” Miz explained. “We are basically putting on a show that people are going to want to go to. And it’s one of those things where we try to create memories that will last a lifetime, and I think this is one of those shows that people will be talking about for a very long time. Expect the unexpected.”

    When asked about portraying a bad guy on WWE programming, Miz opened up about what it’s been like for him to be portraying a good guy.

    “I was a bad guy, and then my show Miz & Mrs. came out […] and now I’m a good guy. People cheer me,” he said. “Like, I’m used to people telling me I suck and that I’m a terrible human being, and I enjoy it, it was a compliment for me. Now, I don’t get that anymore. I get applauded and told how awesome I am, so I don’t mind it. I’m kind of enjoying it as of right now, and if people want to cheer me, let it be.”

    SmackDown will debut on FOX on October 4th from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. 

  • WWE Wants Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson To Appear On SmackDown’s FOX Debut

    WWE Wants Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson To Appear On SmackDown’s FOX Debut

    Much like their recent RAW Reunion show, WWE is inviting a number of former Superstars, Hall of Famers, and Legends for SmackDown’s upcoming FOX debut. The show also coincicdes with SmackDown’s 20th Anniversary.

    Kurt Angle, Lita, Booker T, Hulk Hogan, Mick Foley, Trish Stratus, Jerry Lawler, Goldberg, Sting, Ric Flair, and Goldberg are just some of the names already announced. 

    But they aren’t the only people WWE are hoping will be in attendance.

    WWE is still attempting to secure Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for the blue brand’s FOX debut, according to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. 

    It’s reported that whether Dwayne Johnson appears or not all comes down to his schedule. WWE apparently reached out to him a while back in order to try and book him, but nothing was confirmed at the time. Unfortunately, that still seems to be the case.

    According to Meltzer, Johnson has not yet committed to appearing, despite admitting he misses the squared circle.

    Given his popularity and acting career, finding time to appear on the show he named may not be as easy as he, or the WWE Universe, would like.

    SmackDown will debut on FOX on October 4th from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. 

  • Cody Discusses The Relationship Between AEW And TNT

    Cody Discusses The Relationship Between AEW And TNT

    All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is preparing for their next event All Out. Shortly after their pay-per-view, the company will be debuting their television show on TNT.

    Speaking with SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Cody has discussed AEW’s approach to working with TNT. He asserted that the promotion doesn’t work for TNT, but instead works with them in a joint effort to create something new for wrestling fans.

    “We can look at it like we are answering to them or we are working together with them,” he said. “I learned right away how good of a partner Warner Media and Turner was going to be when I was tying Matt Jackson’s tie in the back of a car service taking us to the Upfronts to the carpet where we were going to announce our show, and they tweeted that fire graphic and wrote that ‘Wrestling is returning to TNT.’ Since then, we couldn’t have asked for a more finger-on-the-pulse partner.”

    Working With, Not Answering To

    Cody explained that no one currently working for the Warner Media Group was there during WCW. Cody considers this a “massive blessing” as there has been no pre-existing grudges or misconceptions of what pro wrestling is or should be.

    He also spoke about the current president of TNT, Kevin Reilly, and how he supports AEW’s mission.

    “He has listened and looked at all of us in the eye and has asked us what is important to us. What is our passion about? What makes us different than any other wrestling out there? He likes our mission,” Cody stated. “Our mission is sometimes more popular than any wrestler on the card. The vision of what this is and the fact that there could be something else on television, there could be this alternative. So, yeah, I look at working with them instead of answering to them, and they have been wonderful in this build to the very first TV.”

    Before that, however, is All Out. The fallout from this event on August 31st, which includes crowning an inaugural champion, will no doubt lay the groundwork for the promotion’s storylines ahead of their television debut on October 2nd.

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription

  • Alex Shelley Opens Up About Being Homeless After Leaving ROH

    Alex Shelley Opens Up About Being Homeless After Leaving ROH

    Alex Shelley walked away from in-ring competition last year. He retired from pro wrestling days after his Ring of Honor (ROH) contract expired.

    Shelley has since returned to ROH, and in an interview with the promotion’s column ‘10 Questions With…’ revealed that he fell on some incredibly hard times after he left.

    “[…] full transparency: I went through a lot of life changes when I left ROH. I got divorced, I was homeless, no income, I was paying for school and working for free, and I had some dark, dark days,” he admitted.

    “Helping people is on my bucket list. I’d like to go back to school again, maybe for psychology this time. Pain management is a huge up and coming field, so is sports psych, and to bring this answer full circle, I’d like to be able to help people not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. And maybe charm them with my rapier, Oscar Wilde wit. Laughter is a solid medicine.”

    After leaving ROH, Shelley went to earn a second college degree, finishing his bachelor’s in physical therapy.

    He returned to the company during a TV taping on June 29th, and is scheduled to face off against ROH World Champion Matt Taven. The two will compete for the title on August 9th at ROH’s Summer Supercard event in Toronto, Ontario. p

  • WWE Confirms Chris Sabin Is Coaching At The WWE Performance Center

    WWE Confirms Chris Sabin Is Coaching At The WWE Performance Center

    WWE has confirmed that former Impact and Ring of Honor (ROH) wrestler Chris Sabin is currently guest coaching at their Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

    We recently reported on Sabin teasing he was at the WWE PC after he uploaded a series of tweets to his social media. One post included a heavily cropped image of the Performance Center logo.

    Now, the WWE PC Twitter account has uploaded a video with Sabin. The clip introduces who he is to the WWE Universe for those who might be unfamiliar.

    “My name is Joshua Edward Harter, also known as Chris Sabin. I’ve been a professional wrestler for 19 years,” he said.

    He touched on his history as a wrestling fan, remembering the specific event that helped him find his passion for pro wrestling: Royal Rumble ’93.

    “I’ve been a big fan of wrestling for most of my life. The first VHS tape that I ever owned was the 1993 Royal Rumble. It was the first pay-per-view my parents ever let me order, and I recorded it, and I watched it over and over and over. Wrestling, more specifically WWE, just kind of took over my life from there.””

    “You know, I love wrestling, ‘I’m very passionate about it, and I hope I can bring some of that passion here to the Performance Center and help some people out and just be a positive force here.”

    Wrestler Reaction

    Since the announcement was made, several wrestlers from across the business commented on Sabin helping at the PC:

    https://twitter.com/JohnThorneAIW/status/1156620375582760960