SEScoops

Author: Steve Russell

  • Cody Says AEW Is Scouting Stadiums For Future Shows

    Cody Says AEW Is Scouting Stadiums For Future Shows

    All Elite Wrestling’s next major event, Double Or Nothing, takes place in only a few months on May 25th. The show will unfold at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    Following up their historic All In event with Double Or Nothing hasn’t stopped the promotion from already looking towards the future.

    In an interview with the WINCLY podcast, Executive Vice President of All Elite, Cody, discussed a range of topics including potential television plans and the fact that AEW is scouting stadiums for future shows. He is hopeful that the company will be able to draw crowds comparable to a WrestleMania or Superbowl audience.

    “To be frank, I have a couple site visits in the next few weeks that are stadiums,” he confirmed. “So, it doesn’t mean anything. There’s no promises, no contracts, no nothing like that. Just me and my business partners checking out a few spots.

    “That would be really exciting [to host that many people]. I mean, that would be a dream come true to have over 40,000+. When you get between that 40 and 80 range a Wrestlemania-like event has, that Superbowl event-like has…that’s something special. But I know that we don’t want to — we really got to do this right. We got to crawl before we walk and we’ve got to walk before we run, and you’ve seen companies that have a lot of financial backing take shop that they shouldn’t take, so, we’re just trying to be careful.”

    Having a new promotion that offers a viable alternative to WWE is an exciting proposition for many, but should AEW be looking at stadiums or perhaps leaning towards smaller venues?

    As Cody himself said, “We got to crawl before we walk and we’ve got to walk before we run.”

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

  • Kevin Owens Reaches Out To Steve Austin Regarding The Stunner

    Kevin Owens Reaches Out To Steve Austin Regarding The Stunner

    The WWE Universe welcomed back Kevin Owens last night as he returned to SmackDown Live. “The Prizefighter” was introduced by Vince McMahon, who referred to him as “more deserving” of facing Daniel Bryan at Fastlane. Mr. McMahon’s decision would lead to Kofi Kingston losing his opportunity at the WWE Champion — something The New Day took issue with.

    Despite this turn of events, however, the two Superstars would end up teaming together by the end of the night. They would face off against “The New” Daniel Bryan and his partner, Erick Rowan.

    The match would end after Owens managed to hit Bryan with a Stunner, allowing him to scoop up the victory.

    This isn’t the first time that KO has used the Stunner. In the past though, it has led to some pretty lukewarm feedback from the man who popularized the move: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.

    This time, with Owens able to end the match with the finisher, it seems things are different, as Owens tweeted out to Austin, saying: “Hey @steveaustinBSR, I finally figured it out!”

    https://twitter.com/FightOwensFight/status/1100595564046139398

    “Put Some Stink On It, Kid”

    “Stone Cold” has been pretty vocal about his disdain regarding Superstars using variations of the Stunner in the past. His frustrations stemmed from the move being devalued, as it wasn’t used as a move to end the matchup. Instead, it was just another move.

    When Owens used the manoeuvre in the past, Austin actually tweeted:

    “Damn. I guess I gotta teach @FightOwensFight how to do a GD Stone Cold Stunner. Put some stink on it, kid. @WWE #royalrumble”

    Hopefully “The Rattlesnake” will be happy to see the Stunner returned to its status as a true finisher.

  • The New Day Reacts To Kofi Kingston Being Replaced At Fastlane

    The New Day Reacts To Kofi Kingston Being Replaced At Fastlane

    Kevin Owens returned last night during SmackDown Live. He was introduced by Vince McMahon as Kofi Kingston’s replacement for WWE’s upcoming Fastlane event as a man “more deserving” of the spot than the New Day member.

    The WWE Universe made their frustration known via social media after the announcement. This vocal disappointment was shared by fellow New Day members, Xavier Woods and Big E.

    Both expressed their clear exasperation with the decision via Twitter, taking umbrage with Vince McMahon’s ruling.

    Xavier, whose current Twitter name is #KofiVsBryan, said:

    “So what else does @TrueKofi have to do? He’s a multi-time champion. He’s given 11 amazing years to this company. He’s pinned the @wwe champion. Kofi is more than good enough. Kofi is more than worthy. What else do you want from him? WHAT ELSE?”

    His partner, Big E, however, took a more resentful approach, simply writing, “I don’t even know why we’re surprised anymore.”

    Despite this turn of events, Owens would eventually tag with Kofi Kingston in the main event of SmackDown. The two would defeat “The New” Daniel Bryan and Erick Rowan after Owens hit a Stunner for the victory.

    With WrestleMania edging ever closer, are WWE saving Kofi for a high profile title win? Could he finally do it on the “Grandest Stage Of Them All”?

  • Nikki Bella Wants Nothing But “Happiness” For John Cena

    Nikki Bella Wants Nothing But “Happiness” For John Cena

    Despite a pretty public, and well publicised, break up with her former partner, John Cena, Nikki Bella continues to wish him nothing but the best.

    Speaking with Hollywood Life, Nikki Bella addressed a number of topics. These ranged from John Cena and winning a ‘Best Actress In A Reality Series’ award for ‘Total Bellas.’

    When asked how she would feel if she were to find out that John Cena was officially dating someone else, Nikki Bella responded with a graceful answer — one that hinted towards a future that could perhaps, one day, see them together once more.

    “I always say that I would be OK [to see John with a new girlfriend], but I think no matter what, it’s always hard to see someone that you loved for so long be with someone else, but I honestly only care about his happiness. I just hope whoever that person is makes him the happiest man on earth because that’s what he deserves. You never know with the future, right? Sometimes people get back together, sometimes they don’t. I guess one day at a time.”

    The couple began dating in 2012 before announcing their separation last year. John Cena famously proposed to Nikki Bella in the middle of the ring at WrestleMania 33 after the two came out victorious over The Miz and Maryse in a tag team match. They were originally scheduled to be wed on May 5th 2018 prior to breaking up.

  • The Undertaker “Hated” The Idea Of Going Back To ‘The Dead Man’ Gimmick

    The Undertaker “Hated” The Idea Of Going Back To ‘The Dead Man’ Gimmick

    The Undertaker has been making news recently, with ‘The Dead Man’ taking bookings outside of WWE as well as his involvement with the upcoming Starrcast II event.

    During a recent episode of Something To Wrestle With Bruce Prichard — who has recently returned to WWE — Prichard talked about The Undertaker. He spoke about ‘The American Badass’ gimmick change that ‘Taker went through prior to returning to ‘The Dead Man’ gimmick at WrestleMania XX back in 2004.

    According to Prichard, Undertaker “hated” the idea of going back to his previous gimmick as he felt that he had more opportunities to wrestle different styles as the “American Badass.”

    “Mark Calaway [The Undertaker] hated the idea,” Prichard said. “Absolutely hated the idea of coming back as the ‘Dead Man’ because he thought with the ‘American Badass’ character, it was multi-dimensional and he wasn’t doing the head snaps and everything. He could work and go out and have a different style of match.”

    Prichard continued, “And he felt that if he came back as the Dead Man, that he would have to go back into the ‘Dead Man’ persona in the ring and we all felt, look, let’s give them [WWE fans] that at WrestleMania — the old ‘Dead Man’ — but then you can evolve it the ring, in your work. You can work like the ‘American Badass,’ but you’re The Undertaker. It was a battle.”

    As we all know, The Undertaker eventually return as the Dead Man character. He went on to continue his WrestleMania streak for another decade. During this time, he had some of the greatest matches of his career and in WrestleMania history.

    The Undertaker’s status for WrestleMania 35 is unclear. He was rumored for a WWE Hall of Fame induction, but the news of DX entering the Hall this year might delay Taker’s induction one more year.

    You can listen to the Something To Wrestle podcast on Youtube and all major podcast platforms. 

  • R-Truth Jokes About Being ‘Missing’ On SmackDown

    R-Truth Jokes About Being ‘Missing’ On SmackDown

    If you’ve been wondering where the current WWE United States Champion is, you’re not the only one. Turns out the champion himself, R-Truth, has noticed his absence on television.

    R-Truth won the title from Shinsuke Nakamura on the 1/29 episode of SmackDown Live, though he hasn’t appeared on the show in a while despite claiming gold.

    Poking fun at his own situation, R-Truth took to his Instagram account highlighting how he has been missing from action. The post displays a carton of milk with R-Truth plastered on the side under a ‘Missing’ headline. It asks that if he is to be found, people should contact Carmella.

    Next to the carton is a picture of R-Truth with his hands and feet tied and his mouth duct taped shut with the U.S. Championship around his waist.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BuRxJi7A66D/?utm_source=ig_embed

    R-Truth has become known over the years for being his part in numerous WWE skits and comedy segments. Years ago he was accompanied by a small, invisible child called ‘Little Jimmy’; more recently he has been associated with Carmella, especially during their stint as a team for WWE’s Mixed Match Challenge. The duo would eventually win the tournament and with it an all-expenses-paid vacation to anywhere in the world. R-Truth chose the WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut.

    What do you think? Is this tongue-in-cheek joke a good way for R-Truth to stay on people’s radar? Should he be featured more, considering he is a champion?

  • Cody Comments On Arn Anderson Departing WWE

    Cody Comments On Arn Anderson Departing WWE

    WWE has seen numerous internal changes made in recent weeks, with talent asking for their releases and backstage personnel departing the company. New backstage talent have started working, and some old faces have even returned.

    However, a major name to recently leave the promotion is Arn Anderson. Although details are still light as to the exact reason why, it appears to revolve around an argument that took place with WWE Chairman and CEO, Vince McMahon.

    Speaking with Ryan Satin of Pro Wrestling Sheet, Cody gave his thoughts on Anderson parting ways with WWE, claiming he was “shocked” by the announcement.

    “I’m just shocked because the entire current top talent at WWE — Seth Rollins, John Cena, Brock, even, Charlotte — I mean, everybody within the ‘golden circle’ is an Arn guy or girl. I feel like that blows my mind. […] Arn Anderson is a gift the to the industry,” he said. “He’s not corporate, he’s a wrestler, but you cannot take wrestlers out of the wrestling business. I don’t know, man. Especially because he was so instrumental to the Triple H character…gosh, I don’t know. My mind is blown.”

    Cody’s reaction came off of Satin confirming the story of Arn’s departure during the interview — something Cody was initially unaware of.

    You can watch the interview in its entirety below:

  • ROH HonorClub Now Available Via FITE TV

    ROH HonorClub Now Available Via FITE TV

    Ring Of Honor (ROH) has officially announced that their subscription service, HonorClub, will be available via FITE TV.

    The promotion released an official statement, highlighting the subscription services newest addition to FITE’s extensive options. ROH HonorClub subscribers can now take advantage of ROH’s service through every FITE-supported device worldwide.

    An HonorClub membership provides free access to all live ROH Tour events, their TV archive and “other historical on-demand programming.” In addition to this, HonorClub VIP members are able to stream all ROH pay-per-views (PPV) for free, whilst a standard membership grants a 50% discount on PPV prices.

    General Manager of ROH, Greg Gilleland, had the following to say regarding this new partnership:
    “FITE has developed a fantastic platform for distributing content and one that wrestling fans have come to know and trust. With our great relationship and a mutual commitment to deliver the best wrestling on the planet to all fans, this is a perfect integration that we are very excited about.”

    The statement mentions that FITE viewers can access all the benefits of ROH’s HonorClub service directly through their FITE account. They will have the option to sign up to either the monthly or VIP annual plan in-app. The first PPV event to stream via FITE will be ROH’s 17th Anniversary show, which will take place on March 15th.

    Are you a FITE TV user? Will you be making use of HonorClub via their service?

  • WWE Superstars React To Roman Reigns’ Remission Announcement

    WWE Superstars React To Roman Reigns’ Remission Announcement

    Last night saw “The Big Dog” Roman Reigns return to Monday Night RAW for the first time since October. Reigns was clearly thrilled to announce the great news that his leukemia is now officially in remission. Roman proudly told the WWE Universe that “We didn’t just swing for the fences…we hit a home run!” in regards to his journey.

    It didn’t take long for the wrestling world to react to this positive announcement, with other WWE Superstars taking to social media in order to give their congratulations and well-wishes.

    John Cena, Sami Zayn, Natalya, Mustafa Ali and more all commented on Reigns’ return.

    “Real superheroes exist,” John Cena tweeted. “Back and with strength and purpose! It’s your yard Roman. Your time is most certainly NOW!”

    Matt Hardy wrote, “Congrats on hitting a homerun & winning your fight, #RomanReigns! Like the @WWEUniverse, I am thrilled to hear this fantastic news.”

    The Usos added, “BIG UCE IS BACK!!!….@WWERomanReigns #RAW #YEEET”

    Even WWE Legend and Hall Of Famer, Booker T, tweeted out: “That’s some GOODT news! #WelcomeBackRoman @WWERomanReigns #RAW”

    Fastlane

    Roman Reigns would end up side-by-side with Seth Rollins later on in the night. The two came out in order to save their former-Shield brother, Dean Ambrose, from Elias, Drew McIntyre, Baron Corbin, and Bobby Lashley.

    This could have been done to tease a potential matchup at WWE’s Fastlane event, which takes place on March 10th from Cleveland, Ohio.

  • NJPW Releases New Japan Cup Card Information

    NJPW Releases New Japan Cup Card Information

    New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) has released full card information on their upcoming New Japan Cup tournament.

    For those who don’t know, the New Japan Cup is a single-elimination tournament. The winner of this tournament will go on to face the IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Jay White, at the G1 Supercard. This event is a co-promoted show with Ring Of Honor (ROH) and takes place at Madison Square Garden, New York, on April 6th.

    The tournament will host a number of New Japan talent, as well as ROH and members of NJPW’s L.A. Dojo and begins on March 8th.

    3/8

    Manabu Nakanishi vs YOSHI-HASHI

    Tomoaki Honma vs Taichi

    Juice Robinson vs Chase Owens

    Yuji Nagata vs Tomohiro Ishii

    3/9

    Mikey Nicholls vs HIKULEO

    Kazuchika Okada vs Michael Elgin

    Will Ospreay vs Bad Luck Fale

    Toa Henare vs Lance Archer

    3/10

    Kota Ibushi vs Tetsuya Naito

    “King Of Darkness” EVIL vs Zack Sabre Jr.

    Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Shota Umino

    Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs David Finlay

    3/11

    Togi Makabe vs Colt Cabana

    Hirooki Goto vs SANADA

    Satoshi Kojima vs Minoru Suzuki

    Toru Yano vs Davey Boy Smith Jr.

    With so many amazing matches already lined up for these first rounds, it’ll be interesting to see how the tournament plays out.

  • Randy Orton Describes Zack Ryder As An “Elite” Worker

    Randy Orton Describes Zack Ryder As An “Elite” Worker

    Not for the first time, Zack Ryder has harnessed social media in order to express his frustrations at his current position.

    This time, however, it was via a reply to WWE’s Viper, Randy Orton.

    Orton recently uploaded a video of himself at, what appears to be, a photo or video shoot. His post was captioned “Another day at the office.”

    Ryder, seeing this, would comment “They never ask me to do these shoots. Congrats man!”

    It would be easy for the response to be lost in the deluge of comments made by the WWE Universe, but somehow Randy Orton saw it.

    Randy would reply with words of encouragement to Ryder, saying, “‘their’ loss broski. I am sure someone will recognize your talents one day. Always considered you to be a very elite worker.”

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

    A Loaded Comment

    With the burgeoning promotion, All Elite Wrestling, continuing to spark excitement by providing an alternative, The Viper’s response can, of course, be construed to be somewhat loaded.

    With talent asking for — and getting — their releases, and major shake-ups occurring within WWE, it wouldn’t be out of the question for Ryder to do the same. But if he were to do so, would he end up in AEW?

    Either way, it’s high praise indeed to be recognized by someone of Orton’s talent and long-standing stature.

  • Ricochet Discusses Which Main Roster Brand He Will Feature On

    Ricochet Discusses Which Main Roster Brand He Will Feature On

    In case you somehow missed it, last week saw a number of NXT’s top Superstars make their main roster debuts. Tomasso Ciampa, Aleister Black, Johnny Gargano, and Ricochet would all appear on Monday Night RAW and SmackDown Live.

    To celebrate the achievement, over 60 of Ricochet’s friends and family held a surprise party for former-NXT North American Champion.

    WPSD Local 6 was on hand to cover the event, interviewing Ricochet in the process. During the conversation, Ricochet would comment on which brand he would subsequently be featured on.

    “I will be on RAW and SmackDown going forward,” he said. “At least until after ‘Mania. After ‘Mania, it’s gonna be one or the other. I’m assuming, I don’t know. But that’s what I’m assuming. But yes, going forward, I am now an official member of RAW and/or SmackDown.”

    “Doesn’t Matter Where You Are From, You Can Live Your Dream”

    Reflecting on the past week, Ricochet was clearly touched by the party held in his honor.

    “This [surprise party] was beyond amazing,” Mann said. “It was awesome. I got to see family, friends, people I haven’t seen in a long time. I was honestly surprised when I walked in, this was great. It just makes you happy to see that many people care. Whether it is close friends you have known since you were three years old or people maybe you have never met, it is just cool that you can inspire so many people. Doesn’t matter where you are from, you can live your dream.”

    Post-WrestleMania, which brand would you prefer Ricochet to be on?

  • Lana Admits She Is “Salty” Regarding Ronda Rousey

    Lana Admits She Is “Salty” Regarding Ronda Rousey

    In the wake of Lana taking to Twitter in order to call Ronda Rousey “overrated,” she has since launched a YouTube channel with Rusev. Her bitterness initially stemmed from being replaced on ‘Total Divas’ due to being “strongly disliked by the demographic” that watches the show.

    Lana responded to a Tweet by Ruby Riott in the build-up to Riott’s matchup against Rousey at Elimination Chamber, jumping at the opportunity to get her anti-Rousey opinions in.

    In a new video uploaded to her YouTube channel, she has continued her campaign, admitting that she is “salty” when it comes to Ronda Rousey.

    “I’m just going to address the elephant in the room,” she said. “Yes, I’m very, very salty. B***h, you know I’m salty.”

    “[…] I thought all you did was diss reality stars, diss the Bellas, and now you’re taking my spot on ‘Total Divas?’ Yes, I’m salty,” she exclaimed. “[…] I’m so furious. You know, I’m so proud of you Ronda for being the ‘Baddest Woman On The Planet,’ but you’re no reality star and guess the one thing you will never, ever, ever, ever, be? As entertaining as me.”

    The video ends with a request for people to write into her and share what they are salty about to be featured in her “I’m Salty” series.

    With the two women on separate brands, it’s unlikely that any of this will lead to a feud. So the question inevitably becomes: why is Lana doing this?

    https://youtu.be/IH7pLNeEIDE

  • Aleister Black Says Goodbye To NXT In Farewell Speech

    Aleister Black Says Goodbye To NXT In Farewell Speech

    Last week saw four of NXT’s top Superstars make their main roster debuts. The quartet was comprised of Tomasso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, Aleister Black, and Ricochet. They would wrestle on both Monday Night RAW and Tuesday Night SmackDown. All would come away with victories during their experiences on the red and blue brand.

    At a recent NXT Live Event, which took place on Saturday, Aleister Black took the opportunity to say goodbye to the NXT fans.

    He reflected on the “crazy” week that he’s just had, commenting that it is definitely one of the “craziest I’ve ever had.” He would go on to admit that the “work is far from done” before listing out the two things that always make him feel great. The first is the sport of professional wrestling, the second is coming home to NXT, which he referred to as a family.

    “Believe me, I am so, so proud I get to be a part of this family. Because this family, no matter where I go after this, will always be my home. It truly is.”

    Aleister Black is advertised for this week’s episode of SmackDown Live. He is scheduled to team up with Ricochet to take on Rusev and Shinsuke Nakamura in tag team action.

    https://twitter.com/briantheguppie/status/1099692328422436865

  • WWE Reportedly Planning Main Event Push For Lacey Evans

    WWE Reportedly Planning Main Event Push For Lacey Evans

    WWE is gearing up to position main roster newcomer Lacey Evans as one of the top female performers in the company.

    Evans appeared in a ‘blink-and-you’ll-miss-it’ segment during this past Sunday’s Elimination Chamber event. Her music would hit, Evans would strut out, turn around and leave.

    She replicated the spot on both Monday Night RAW and Tuesday on SmackDown Live. Tuesday’s appearance, however, would distract Asuka, giving Mandy Rose the chance to steal a victory. This could be hinting towards a potential Asuka vs Lacey Evans encounter.

    Turns out that the reason this lies in the company’s belief in her as a Superstar.

    According to Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com, WWE sees major things for Lacey Evans in the future, wanting to eventually position her as one of the top female Superstars in the company alongside Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch.

    “Lacey Evans — you have no idea how big they want Lacey Evans to be,” he explained. “You know we talked about Asuka and Lacey Evans, which I don’t think is going to happen, but that was the idea…right now the idea is that when Ronda leaves, whenever that will be, the big three will be Charlotte, Becky Lynch, and Lacey Evans. Which is, you know, kind of a shock — and she may not make it, but that’s where they see things.”

    Rousey is expected to take extended time off from WWE following WrestleMania 35.

  • Davey Boy Smith Jr. Discusses Interest In All Elite Wrestling

    Davey Boy Smith Jr. Discusses Interest In All Elite Wrestling

    Since leaving WWE, Davey Boy Smith Jr. has been making a name for himself amongst the independent scene. He is currently one-half of the Major League Wrestling (MLW) Tag Team Champions and is a member of Suzuki-Gun in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). In New Japan, he tags with Lance Archer, forming the formidable team of Killer Elite Squad.

    In an interview with the WINCLY podcast, Davey Boy Smith Jr. discussed the emerging All Elite Wrestling and commented on his interest in the promotion.

    He admits that he has yet to speak to anyone from AEW, stating that “I think that it’s awesome that they’ve created something new and different, and I hope it’s a fresh breath of air for the wrestling world. Something that’s just a different alternative, and hey, competition is always a good thing, right?”

    Elite Killer

    Smith Jr. would go on to say that if he were to be approached by AEW, he wouldn’t know what he’d be able to commit to due to his NJPW obligations.

    “I haven’t been contacted by them, but if I were to be, I don’t know what the situation is with New Japan. It seems that they’re not really working with AEW, which is too bad because guys like The Young Bucks & Kenny were featured stars in New Japan. And then when they started their own company, it seems that things have kind of split. I’d have to look into what would be the best situation for myself.”

    Wishing them all the best, he shared that he would like to be a part of the promotion “if there’s interest” before reiterating that his contract with New Japan may render it impossible.

    “You know what? I wish them all the best. I would like to be a part of it if there’s interest, if there’s a situation that I can be in there but I don’t know if it would work with New Japan. I’m not sure.”

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

    Would you like to see Davey Boy Smith Jr. in AEW? If he did appear for them, would Smith Jr. be better suited as a singles or tag competitor?

  • Vince McMahon’s Apparent Thought Process Behind NXT Call-Ups

    Vince McMahon’s Apparent Thought Process Behind NXT Call-Ups

    The major discussion amongst the WWE Universe this week has surrounded the recent NXT call-ups to WWE’s main roster.

    NXT Champion, Tomasso Ciampa, former-North American Champion, Johnny Gargano, Aleister Black, and Ricochet all performed this week. The Superstars appeared on both Monday Night RAW and SmackDown Live.

    Their appearances were announced prior to the shows themselves, surprising fans and backstage talent. It’s reported that Triple H wasn’t fully aware of their call up. Unsurprisingly, the decision is said to have been made by Vince McMahon.

    Turns out that Vince’s reasoning lay in wanting to try to improve ratings and shake up what he, allegedly, considers to be “stale” Superstars.

    Dave Meltzer discussed the debuts this week on Wrestling Observer Radio. He divulged that “Vince felt that the reason the ratings are down is because the product is stale, the stars are stale, and ‘We don’t have any superstars, and these guys that we have aren’t gonna be superstars so we need to make new superstars, so we gotta get guys that we haven’t ruined.’”

    The end result of this was the debut of the aforementioned quartet. It’s worth noting that every match wrestled by an NXT Superstar this week was subsequently won by NXT talent.

    Apparently, WWE’s plans for the foreseeable future is to have these four men work all three main brands until a more concrete decision is made.

    Not everyone was thrilled by the debuts, with TJP taking to Twitter to vent his frustrations. Although not necessarily connected, Tye Dillinger did ask for his release this week.

  • Zelina Vega Discusses Her Role In ‘Fighting With My Family’

    Zelina Vega Discusses Her Role In ‘Fighting With My Family’

    The new biopic, ‘Fighting With My Family,’ releases nationwide on Friday. Promotion for the movie has featured on WWE programming for the past few weeks.

    Sitting down with Kayla Braxton for WWE, Zelina Vega spoke about her role in the movie. She also recalled the audition process that she encountered.

    Vega discussed the connection she had with AJ Lee’s character. She credited their mutual love of video games and nerd culture.

    “Well, I play AJ Lee, the Divas Champion, and it was something that I really found a connection with her because we both were into video games, we’re both a little bit of, y’know, some nerds,” she said.

    “So, it was really easy to just really submerge myself into her, and become her for that moment.”

    “I Want You To Be My Divas Champion”

    Insofar as auditioning for the role, it turns out Vega was able to bypass this step. She explained that she has known Dwayne Johnson for 5 years and, whilst struggling, she reached out to him. His response was an offer of the role of AJ Lee.

    “Well actually, I’ve known Dwayne Johnson for around 5 years now, and I was going through a period of time where I was trying to get to WWE and it was…it wasn’t easy. It took me around 8 years to get here,” she explained.

    “But at a time where I was struggling to become a WWE Superstar and struggling to become an actress, I texted him one day and I was like, ‘I’m at the end of my rope here, what do you suggest I do? Please give me some guidance,’” she confessed.

    “He’s like, ‘Actually I’ve been working on something for the past few days now, give me a little bit and I’ll call you.’ And I was like, ‘OK’ and I didn’t think anything of it. And he called me and he said, ‘So I have this project that we’re working and it’s based on this documentary on Paige, and her family, and her life in wrestling and I would love for you to be involved.

    So I was like, ‘OK, sweet.’ I’ll probably just get a little scene in the background and that’d be great.’ And he said, ‘No, I want you to be champion. I want you to be my Divas Champion, and you don’t even have to audition for the role, it’s yours. I know you can do it.’ Of course, the waterworks and all that came afterwards, but it was pretty incredible because he’s somebody that’s believed in me from the start.”

  • Triple H Congratulates Velveteen Dream On Championship Win (Photo)

    Triple H Congratulates Velveteen Dream On Championship Win (Photo)

    The WWE Universe witnessed a big title change last night during WWE’s NXT as The Velveteen Dream defeated Johnny Gargano for the North American Championship. Gargano would fail to retain the championship in his first defense.

    Despite all the accolades, hype, and stellar performances over the years, this happens to be the first championship that Velveteen Dream has held in WWE.

    However, the WWE Universe weren’t the only ones congratulating Dream on his win.

    Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events, and Creative, Triple H himself, was also eager to praise Dream’s performance.

    Taking to Twitter, “The Game” wrote the following:

    “Believing you are absolutely everything you say you are is necessary if you want to be a champion.
    …backing it up is what ACTUALLY makes you one.
    Congratulations to the NEW @WWENXT North American Champion, @VelveteenWWE. #DreamOVER”

    Dream Over

    Velveteen Dream has often been outspoken about being put onto the main roster. This extended to wearing tights that had “Call Me Up Vince” emblazoned on them. He has also drummed up interest by using social media, encouraging fans in the past to Tweet en masse at WWE demanding that he be called up to the main roster.

    With this championship victory, however, it appears that the Dream may continue to be in NXT for the foreseeable future.

  • Details On WWE’s WrestleMania 35 Plans For Asuka

    Details On WWE’s WrestleMania 35 Plans For Asuka

    RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey’s WrestleMania 35 match is set. With only one more PPV on the way to ‘Mania, the same can’t be said for SmackDown Women’s Champion, Asuka.

    Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com recently discussed this situation. He spoke on the status of a match and an opponent for “The Empress Of Tomorrow.” Meltzer highlighted Lacey Evans as an opponent before adding that this plan was, apparently, being “reconsidered.”

    “As far as Asuka goes, I mentioned the thing with Lacey Evans last night. There actually was talk of Asuka and Lacey Evans being the WrestleMania match, and it was definitely on the books at one point,” he explained. “But I was led to believe that it was being reconsidered and that it was not a 100 per cent ‘no’ and it could happen, but it was actually on the books and the point is that it’s not a 100 per cent ‘yes,’ and it may be more than likely ‘no.’ I wasn’t given an opponent for Asuka yet. I don’t think they have one.”

    With Lacey Evans an unconfirmed then, Asuka still finds herself without a match.

    It’s worth noting that Asuka did lose a match to Mandy Rose last night on SmackDown Live. This was due to a distraction from Lacey that Rose capitalized on. This could, in theory, set up Asuka vs Mandy Rose at Fastlane, and then Asuka against Evans at WrestleMania.

  • The Young Bucks Cite “Creative Freedom” As Key Factor In Joining AEW

    The Young Bucks Cite “Creative Freedom” As Key Factor In Joining AEW

    Matt and Nick Jackson, The Young Bucks, are set to change the world with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Even lucrative offers from WWE couldn’t change their minds. WWE’s offer extended to an “Invasion angle,” and included the WWE Network hosting future episodes of ‘Being The Elite.’

    For some, this opportunity would have been too good to turn down. Not for The Young Bucks. The reason behind their decision couldn’t have been simpler and lies in creative freedom.

    “Nobody Else Can Compete With That”

    Speaking with SportingNews.com, The Young Bucks would divulge the power of creative freedom that has been granted to them. They cited this autonomy as a key factor in their decision in getting involved with AEW.

    Nick Jackson would state that “Right off the bat, I would say the freedom, the creative freedom. It was an outlet for us to express the way we feel pro wrestling should be done, the way we think it should be done in 2019 and the future. […] We were like ‘OK, we can should the world how we feel wrestling should be represented and this is how we feel like it should be.’”

    He continued, “The other options were to stay where we were or go to WWE. For me, personally, I feel like this was the easy choice because we’re going to be with all of our friends and we’re having a good time. It feels like it pretty much what we have been doing for the last four or five years but on a bigger scale.”

    His brother, Matt, would add that Tony Khan essentially gave them carte blanche control. He quoted Khan, saying, “‘Listen, hire who you want to hire and you’re in charge.’”

    Matt then added, “Nobody else can compete with that. A dollar figure can’t compete with that. We’re artists and we’re creative.”

  • Backstage News On Lio Rush’s Reputation

    Backstage News On Lio Rush’s Reputation

    At WWE’s Elimination Chamber event this past Sunday, Finn Balor would become crowned the new Intercontinental Champion. He emerged victorious despite wrestling a handicap match against former champion, Bobby Lashley, and Lio Rush.

    Balor would pick up the win after getting the better of Lio Rush. This would then lead Bobby Lashley to attack his partner, seemingly ending their short-lived association.

    Post-Elimination Chamber, PWInsider’s Mike Johnson would shed some light on their break up:

    “It appears Lio Rush is done with Bobby Lashley,” he explained. “I can tell you behind the scenes there were not a lot of people surprised at that and not a lot of people surprised that Lio took the pin. There are times Lio has a reputation for rubbing people, including other workers, the wrong way. Whether that was being held against him and that was part of the reasoning for him losing or whether it was just a decision to protect Lashley and shift the belt to Finn Balor, I guess we’ll have to see based on how Lio is presented in the weeks and months to come.”

    For those that missed this week’s Monday Night RAW, Lio Rush appeared on the show re-teaming with Bobby Lashley. This gave off the confusing impression that nothing had happened between them just the night before.

    H/T to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.

  • WWE Locker Room Response To This Week’s NXT Debuts

    WWE Locker Room Response To This Week’s NXT Debuts

    NXT Champion, Tomasso Ciampa, NXT North American Champion, Johnny Gargano, Aleister Black, and Ricochet all made their debuts this week. They would compete on both Monday Night RAW and SmackDown Live.

    If you were surprised to see NXT Superstars debut on the main roster this week, then you weren’t the only one. Turns out the WWE locker room weren’t aware that these four NXT standouts would be showing up, too.

    According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider, wrestlers were left confused and curious over why these four Superstars were brought up. Concern apparently spread through the locker room about even more main roster spots — already a contentious commodity — being taken.

    “Are They Coming For My Spot?”

    On the subject of the NXT call ups, Johnson said:

    “I can tell you from speaking to a number of people who work on the main roster, no one seemed to have any knowledge or understanding that they were coming to work the show. When they showed up, there was definitely some side eye at these guys going ‘Ok, why are they all here? Why are they all working RAW?’ There were definitely some talents who have been brought up within the last couple of months who really have kind of just floated around not due to their issues but just due to how they were treated on creative. They were kind of like ‘Oh, are they coming for my spot? What’s going on here?’”

    He would go on to say that, although there was no “resentment” towards the four men, he “[…] definitely heard some feedback from some WWE talents who were paying closer attention to their own spot and what these talents coming up could mean for their spot. I don’t mean people who just came up to the roster from NXT. I’m talking about existing mid-card talent who haven’t gotten a lot or are just starting to get a little bit of a push again. There was definitely some whispering among each other like ‘hey what’s going on here?’”

    Call Up Conundrum

    It was only a few months ago that a number of NXT call ups were made, with WWE heavily promoting their debuts. At this time, WWE Creative have yet to give them anything substantial on the main roster. This is also true for those called up a while ago, including talent like Sanity.

    This is particularly interesting in the wake of so many WWE Superstars expressing their displeasure and requesting their releases. Hideo Itami was granted his. Tye Dillinger has only just officially announced that he has now requested his.

    H/T to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.

  • 205 Live Plans For WrestleMania 35

    205 Live Plans For WrestleMania 35

    We are on The Road To Wrestlemania with only WWE’s Fastlane PPV before the extravaganza itself takes place in April.

    Whilst a number of main roster feuds have been developed, one brand had been left somewhat behind: 205 Live.

    This week’s episode of 205 Live changed that.

    The show opened with the brand’s General Manager, Drake Maverick. He proceeded to announce they would be running a single elimination tournament in the run-up to WrestleMania 35. The winner of the tournament will face current Cruiserweight champion, Buddy Murphy, on the “grandest stage of them all.”

    Tournament Hype

    Two first round matchups been revealed. These take place next Tuesday night and will feature Tony Nese in a matchup with Kalisto. Drew Gulak will also compete against The Brian Kendrick.

    WWE has not confirmed the other participants in the tournament. It is likely that the men will be Humberto Carrillo, Cedric Alexander, Mike Kanellis, and Ariya Daivari.

    WWE utilized their numerous Twitter accounts, uploading a few videos to hype the tournament announcement, writing:

    “This is a HUGE opportunity!@WWEMaverick reveals that there will be a single-elimination tournament to determine @WWE #Cruiserweight Champion @WWE_Murphy’s #WrestleMania challenger! #205Live”

    https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/1098068737750650880

    Are you looking forward to this mini-tournament? Who will face Murphy come WrestleMania? 

  • Aleister Black Comments On His RAW Debut

    Aleister Black Comments On His RAW Debut

    Aleister Black made his main roster brand debut last night during Monday Night RAW. He joined fellow NXT Superstars Ricochet, NXT North American Champion, Johnny Gargano, and NXT Champion, Tomasso Ciampa on the red brand. He would face off against Elias, coming away with a victory in the process.

    Black did make an appearance during January’s Royal Rumble match, entering the fray at number 21. He eliminated Dean Ambrose before being taken out of the match by Baron Corbin.

    Catching up backstage with WWE.com, the former NXT Champion, claimed that he had made an indelible impression during his RAW appearance. He would then proclaim that “Aleister Black is not the status quo” — a sentiment that correlates with WWE’s recent attempts to reinvigorate their product for the WWE Universe.

    “The significance is an impression,” he said. “An impression that is not only heard but is felt, and Elias felt that. With him, the entire WWE Universe and every Superstar, whether it’s the RAW or SmackDown locker room, now has the same realization that Aleister Black is not the status quo.”

    Do you agree with Black? Is his challenging of the status quo exactly what the main roster needs? Which brand would he be better suited for — red or blue?