SEScoops

Author: Steve Russell

  • Matt Riddle Feels He Should Have Been In WWE Years Ago

    Matt Riddle Feels He Should Have Been In WWE Years Ago

    A large contingent of indie pro wrestling fans would have loved for Matt Riddle amongst the WWE roster years ago.

    Turns out The King of Bros feels the same way.

    ESPN.com recently released an article that explores the ins and outs of the WWE Performance Center in Florida. During the piece, ESPN interview a number of different superstars and backstage talent, including Matt Riddle.

    He discussed his transition from MMA to pro wrestling and the decisions that helped solidify his resolve to commit to sports entertainment.

    Matt was candid in his feelings, stating that he felt he should have been a part of the WWE when he had his first try out.

    “I moved my family down here, I’ve got three kids and a wife, so it’s nice,” Riddle reflected. “I just wrestle in Florida every weekend. We occasionally do tours or TakeOvers, but for the most part, now I get to spend more time with my family. I’m more local, and it’s great. The training here is top-notch,” he continued. “Where I was, I was lucky to even train three times a week, because my schedule was so insane — and I didn’t have the coaches or amenities to do [much more than that].”

    “I just feel like I belong here. I felt like I belonged here three-and-a-half years ago when I had my first try out.”

    Riddle first appeared for the WWE in August during their NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn 4 event, where it was revealed he had signed with the company. He made his in-ring debut last month at TakeOver: War Games II, defeating Kassius Ohno in an astounding six seconds.

    With so much momentum already behind him, it’ll be fascinating to watch how far this bro will go.

  • Status Update On Velveteen Dream

    Status Update On Velveteen Dream

    Despite having impressed Triple H and others within WWE’s upper echelons, the Velveteen Dream has still not been called up to the main roster. At one point, Dream brazenly wore tights decorated with “Call Me Up Vince” in an effort to stand out and get his point across. 

    Main roster ambitions aside, at this point in time there’s no word on when we can even expect the Dream back on NXT TV.

    It’s been reported that he did not work the recent TV tapings from NXT’s home in Full Sail University. He did, however, return to in-ring competition for the black and yellow brand over the weekend for NXT’s live events in Florida. Dream picked up victories over Kona Reeves and Luke Menzies.

    Having finessed and improved during his time in NXT, the Velveteen Dream has been unsuccessful in his recent efforts for NXT gold. It’s a testament to the Dream’s charisma and character that these losses haven’t impeded his popularity or continued success.

    His last televised matchup took place at TakeOver: War Games II over Survivor Series weekend in a loss to current NXT champion, Tomasso Ciampa.

    Could this imply bigger plans for the Velveteen Dream in the future? With the Royal Rumble around the corner, could we be on the cusp of a main roster debut?

  • The Revival Want To Get ‘Lucha House Rules’ Suspended

    The Revival Want To Get ‘Lucha House Rules’ Suspended

    Recent weeks have seen The Revival go up against WWE’s resident luchadores, The Lucha House Party, in a string of losing efforts. This can be attributed to the warped ruleset undertaken under ‘Lucha House Rules,’ which creates a 3-on-2 handicap situation, much to the Revival’s chagrin. Despite this consistent unfairness, somehow the Revival remain the supposed heels in this feud.

    Now The Revival is taking matters into their own hands, by starting an online petition.

    https://twitter.com/ScottDawsonWWE/status/1070050491923554304

    Describing themselves as the “Absolute Best Tag Team on this Planet, [the] Mercedes Benz of the Tag Team Division,” Dawson highlights the unfairness of their situation, decrying the “3-on-2 matches. Even 3-on-1 matches!” in the hope to get people to sign their name to suspend ‘Lucha House Rules’ going forward.

    He concludes his plea by asking fans to “Please take a second out of your day and sign this petition. For a betterment of tomorrow’s Sports Entertainment. For the betterment of tomorrow’s Tag Team Wrestling. For the betterment of tomorrow’s youth. Thank you.”

    Hard to argue with that.

    “One Day”

    A few months ago, Dawson reached out via Twitter asking fans to not “[…] give up on us yet. There’s a reason we’re called ‘The Revival’.” Even more recently, they became embroiled in a back-and-forth with The Young Bucks, who promised that the two teams would wrestle each other “one day.”

    https://twitter.com/MattJackson13/status/1069775644261679105

    What do you think? Is it too late for the Revival on Raw? Would you like to see them face The Young Bucks?

  • Injured Raw Superstar On Track To In-Ring Return

    Injured Raw Superstar On Track To In-Ring Return

    Fandango, who comprised one half of the Fashion Police with partner Tyler Breeze, has been sidelined since July after suffering a torn left labrum. He would go on to have surgery over the summer and has been rehabbing since.

    At the time, Fandango noted via social media that he could be out for up to six months. We have since passed the five-month mark and the good news is that he appears to have healed to the point of actively training for an in-ring return.

    According to PWInsider, Fandango has been at the WWE’s Performance Center in Orlando over the past few days. He has reportedly been training hard and drilling in-ring work. Both are positive indications that he is on track for the projected six-month turnaround.

    Despite not yet being officially cleared by WWE and their medical team, if they do clear him before December ends there is a chance he may be brought back in January. Perhaps even in time for the Royal Rumble and start to the Road To Wrestlemania.

    That, naturally, is pending on WWE and their creative team having anything ready for either Fandango or the Fashion Police going forward.

    What would you like Fandango to do when he returns? Are you anticipating a Fashion Police reunion?

  • World Tag League Will See Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi Team Up For The First Time Ever

    World Tag League Will See Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi Team Up For The First Time Ever

    It’s a rivalry that seemed destined to last forever as each man strove to prove they were the dominant competitor in New Japan Pro Wrestling. But now, six years into their historic feud now turned friendly competition, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi about to team up together for the first time ever.

    With both having a common enemy in new Bullet Club member, Jay White, it has led the men to a tense truce and unlikely alliance.

    As part of New Japan’s current World Tag League tournament, we will get the opportunity to witness ‘The Ace’ and ‘The Rainmaker’ join forces on both the 29th and 30th of November.

    The first match will see Okada, Tanahashi, and KUSHIDA face off against Jay White, Bad Luck Fale and Taiji Ishimori — a clash that also further developments the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight feud between the champion, KUSHIDA, and Ishimori.

    The next day, the team will see Rocky Romero bolster their ranks in an eight-man tag team match as they compete against White, Fale, Ishimori, and the man who betrayed Okada, Gedo.

    It was Gedo’s betrayal and Jay White’s unrelenting attack post-match at NJPW’s Destruction in Kobe event that would lead to this unlucky team coming together.

    At a later New Japan show, ‘Road To Power Struggle’ on October 27th, Tanahashi would run in to save Okada from an assault at the hands of the Firing Squad, bringing the two men together in the face of a unified enemy.

    Okada will eventually face Jay White at next year’s Wrestle Kingdom 13 event. Tanahashi, meanwhile, will be cashing in his G1 Climax briefcase for a shot against IWGP Heavyweight champion, Kenny Omega.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=131&v=gAJVWrF8Q6o

  • Silas Young Spotted At Last Night’s Monday Night Raw

    Silas Young Spotted At Last Night’s Monday Night Raw

    It was only recently that we reported on how Ring Of Honor wrestler, Silas Young, defines a ‘real man.’

    Turns out ‘The Last Real Man’ can add ‘watching Raw live’ to that list.

    According to PWInsider, Silas Young was present at last night’s Monday Night Raw event in Milwaukee.

    Like the recent Enzo Amore debacle at Survivor Series, Young was a part of the crowd. Unlike the Amore incident, Young remained discreet and hidden throughout.

    This appearance comes at an interesting time given that his contract with Ring of Honor expires at the end of the year. Because of this, rumors have begun to circulate that Young may end up signing with the WWE once his contractual obligations to Ring of Honor are completed.

    Silas Young achieved quite a lot during his tenure with ROH. He has won the ROH World Television Champion twice and featured in a number of high profile, main event feuds. A consistent member of the ROH roster since 2012, losing him would be an unfortunate blow to the company.

    Ring of Honor still has their Final Battle PPV event coming up in December. Despite not currently having an opponent, Young is currently scheduled to participate when it goes down at the Hammerstein Ballroom, December 14th.

    What do you think? Would Silas Young make a great addition to the WWE roster? Who could you see him feuding with?

  • More On WWE Signing WALTER

    More On WWE Signing WALTER

    We recently reported that the WWE had signed WALTER. With the Austrian currently being one of the most popular independent talents in the world, this is a major acquisition.

    Further details have since come out regarding NXT UK’s most recent signee.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer highlighted that WALTER had no interest in joining the black-and-yellow brand in Florida.

    Not wanting to leave Germany has clearly influenced WALTER’s decision, leading him to NXT UK over moving to the United States.

    It’s reported that, though he’s open to taking trips over to America, he has no desire to live there or commit to lengthy WWE tours.

    NXT Germany

    Furthermore, it’s speculated that WALTER will inevitably become a cornerstone for WWE’s planned NXT German brand.

    Popular German based promotion, wXw are reportedly working with the WWE to bring NXT Germany to life. Their plans factor in having WALTER eventually teach at their facility.

    WALTER has been transparent over his feelings about the WWE in the past, expressing disinterest in both Raw and SmackDown. Conversely, the Austrian has always had high praise for NXT, so ending up a part of NXT UK and, ultimately, NXT Germany makes perfect sense.

  • Steve Austin Shares Which Current WWE Superstars He’d Like To Work With

    Steve Austin Shares Which Current WWE Superstars He’d Like To Work With

    When asked recently on his podcast, ‘The Steve Austin Show,’ which current superstar he would enjoy working a final feud with, Austin came back with two interesting answers.

    First up is the current WWE Universal Champion, Brock Lesnar.

    “I’m good friends with Brock Lesnar,” said Austin, “and it’d be fun to work with Brock ’cause I was supposed to all those years ago.”

    “Stone Cold” is actually referencing a storyline that was meant to occur in the early 2000s. That feud would have seen him go one-on-one with Brock Lesnar, back when Lesnar was known as “The Next Big Thing.”

    Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Austin famously “took his ball and went home” and left WWE because Vince McMahon wanted him to lose to Brock Lesnar on Monday Night Raw with virtually zero build up.

    The second name? Well, turns out that Austin wants to walk with Elias.

    “I also really think Elias is doing well. I’d like to work with that guy to elevate him,” he admitted. “I think he’s on his way to being a top guy.”

    “I’ve known Brock forever and we’re good friends,” Austin reiterated, “but Elias has been making more and more progress. The character is coming around. The guitar work is great. Damn good hand in the ring. Great gimmick. He’s working baby[face] now and I think that’s great.”

    If he were to do it one last time, who would you want to see “Stone Cold” feud with?

  • Tomasso Ciampa Belittles Open Challenges

    Tomasso Ciampa Belittles Open Challenges

    Tomasso Ciampa doesn’t care about Seth Rollins’ attempts at proving himself to be a fighting champion.

    Rollins hosted an open challenge for his Intercontinental Championship last night on Raw. He would go on to successfully defend his title against the man who answered the challenge, Dolph Ziggler.

    Prior to Raw, Rollins took to Twitter to hype up the open challenge:

    The current NXT champion, “Blackheart” Tomasso Ciampa, however, took chagrin to the Tweet and the entire concept of an open challenge.

    In a not-so-subtle shot, the NXT champion highlighted that “Cena had the US Title Open Challenge. Rollins has the IC Title Open Challenge,” but “CIAMPA does not, nor will he ever, offer an NXT Title Open Challenge.”

    He bluntly stated that if “You want a shot at The Champ, earn it,” before signing off with “#ZeroParticipationAwards”.

    The concept of the open challenge has become repopularized over the past few years, with both Cena and Rollins having hosted a successful series that helped to regain some prestige to the title they were defending. Cena’s long-running open challenge, in particular, helped to elevate the flagging US championship at the time.

    https://twitter.com/ProjectCiampa/status/1067125538643476481

    What do you think of Open Challenges? Do you agree with Tomasso Ciampa?

  • Potential Horsewomen Feud Escalates Online

    Potential Horsewomen Feud Escalates Online

    It appears an all-out faction war could be on the horizon within the WWE as tensions rise between the MMA Horsewomen and members of the WWE Horsewomen.

    The back-and-forth hostilities have only further escalated as Horsewomen members voiced their opinions and insults via social media.

    It all stemmed from the following Tweet by Charlotte Flair:

    Even ‘The Man’, Becky Lynch, involved herself in the fray:

    https://twitter.com/BeckyLynchWWE/status/1067136054669598726

    Current NXT Women’s Champion, Shayna Baszler, made sure to point out that her stable are a team, not just a collection of people who are “barely friends half the time.”

    Horsewomen Domination

    There were plans in place at one point for an MMA Horsewomen vs WWE Horsewomen matchup. That was originally slated for this year’s Survivor Series but, as things often are with the WWE, things changed and the match didn’t happen.

    That clearly hasn’t stopped the participants from planting seeds for what could take place in the future. However, whether this was planned amongst themselves or by WWE creative is uncertain at this time.

    What do you think? Is this a feud you want to see? With Charlotte Flair having recently turned heel, would this set up a heel WWE Horsewomen team to face off against a babyface MMA Horsewomen quartet?

  • Rey Mysterio Shares Thoughts On Retirement, Comments On Son Continuing Tradition

    Rey Mysterio Shares Thoughts On Retirement, Comments On Son Continuing Tradition

    We recently wrote about Rey Mysterio revealing that wrestling his son, Dominic would be a dream match he wants before he retires from in-ring competition.

    Speaking with Lilian Garcia on her ‘Chasing Glory’ podcast on the subject of leaving the squared circle, Mysterio shared his thoughts process on retirement, what that might look like, and when he predicts it could happen.

    “I’m definitely getting close to shutting down sometimes in the next couple of years,” he admitted, before adding, “I definitely don’t see myself going past five years. That’s without a doubt, you know, and I just wouldn’t wanna do it for the sake of my body and what I’ve gone through.”

    “I Don’t Want To Have To Keep Doing This Because I Have To”

    Allowing a unique insight into how he views his career at this stage, Mysterio hinted that he felt comfortable if he were to leave because of the decisions he and his wife have made over the years.

    “You know I think I’ve done the work at home and I’ve brought the money in and my wife has been very smart to administrate everything at home,” said Rey. “She’s been a wife, a mother, a friend, and she’s been my accountant all these years and my administrator and she’s known how to handle the money and how to invest and how to move it around in the right direction.”

    “I don’t want to have to keep doing this because I have to. I wanna keep doing it because I love it and you know I still feel like I have a little bit more to give to the audience.”

    A Mysterious Tradition

    Another subject discussed was the idea of Dominic continuing the Mysterio tradition, donning a mask when he debuts.

    Rey confessed that he doesn’t believe his son will. This would bring an end to the masked tradition within the Mysterio lineage. It is worth noting, however, that Rey recently trademarked the name, Principe Mysterio. Principe translates to Prince, which would be a fitting title for Rey’s son.

    “I don’t think he wants to [wear a mask],” Rey said. “He has something special to do with the mask just to represent and to pretty much honor his father,” he added, “but I think since he was known already when doing this as a kid and we post pictures together it is kind of hard.”

    Dominic technically made his WWE television debut back in 2005 when he became embroiled in an on-screen battle over who his biological father was, Rey Mysterio or Eddie Guerrero.

    He has since been training with Lance Storm in Canada and apparently has plans to move to Houston, Texas to continue his education under Booker T at Booker’s Reality of Wrestling school.

  • ‘Hurricane’ Shane Helms Clarifies His Position In Ring Of Honor

    ‘Hurricane’ Shane Helms Clarifies His Position In Ring Of Honor

    Earlier in the summer, Ring Of Honor announced that they had signed “Hurricane” Shane Helms to a deal that would see the wrestler become a part of the ROH roster. In that time, the Hurricane has had a number of matches with The Villain, Marty Scurll.

    Despite this initial Superhero vs Villain offering, Shane Helms hasn’t been featured heavily on ROH’s TV output, leading some to speculate there could be issues between Helms and ROH.

    Speaking with Jim Ross on Ross’ popular Ross Report podcast, the Hurricane took the opportunity to clear the air and clarify the situation.

    Helms states that he is still a part of the Ring Of Honor roster, but confesses that “[…] we just haven’t agreed to dates.”

    “We’re on wonderful terms. They are super happy with me. They’re happy with how everything worked out with me and Marty Scurll. Yeah, I like [ROH]. I like the locker room. They’re very positive. Everybody’s busy.”

    His feud with The Villain saw them wrestle four times since Helms’ initial signing. The record stood at a win a piece and a no-contest before Scurll ultimately came out on top over the former WWE Cruiserweight champion.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4VFahvxRgI&t=1s

    Who would you like to see “Hurricane” Shane Helms feud with next in ROH? Is ROH a good home for Helms?

  • Silas Young Defines What It Means To Be A ‘Real Man’

    Silas Young Defines What It Means To Be A ‘Real Man’

    Channelling a gritty, old-school mentality, Ring Of Honor’s Silas Young purports to be the ‘Last Real Man’ in pro wrestling.

    Speaking with the WINCLY podcast, Young offered his opinion on what defines a ‘real man’ in this day and age.

    “It means to stick to your guns,” he explained. “When you make a decision, [you] make a decision and stand by it. Don’t back-pedal. Stand up for what you believe in.”

    He does note during the interview, however, that your core beliefs should not hurt others, and stresses the importance of remaining true and positive for yourself.

    “[Being a ‘real man’] also means that realizing what you believe and what you stand for, is something that’s not hurting other people, that you’re doing something for yourself,” he extrapolated. “It’s just basically being a good person and standing by your word.”

    Silas Young has made a name for himself within Ring Of Honor as a brash throwback to a time when men would say little but could hit hard, if needed. Gruff, to the point, and prone to brawling rather than talking.

    Young was previously aligned with the Beer City Bruiser and, for a short time, Brian Milanos before distancing himself from them as he continues to climb the ROH rankings.

    What do you think of Silas’ take on what it means to be a ‘real man’? Agree or disagree? Do you think ‘The Last Real Man’ gimmick works in 2018?

  • Rey Fenix Injured At CMLL Show

    Rey Fenix Injured At CMLL Show

    It was only a few months ago that the internet was rife with rumors and speculation over where the Lucha Bros. (Rey Fenix and Penatgon Jr.) would end up.

    Unfortunately for Rey Fenix, it appears the answer for him is: at home, healing.

    Taking to Instagram, Rey Fenix updated his fans on his current situation, explaining that he would be taking the rest of 2018 off in order to heal and rehab his body. The luchador suffered an unfortunate injury, straining his groin, at a recent CMLL event.

    “Hello everyone. Today I don’t have a good news. Yesterday night, I wrestle one of the most important matches in CMLL #LaLeyendaDePlata. Like every match I wrestle my 100% excited and passionate. Unfortunately, last night I ended up with a muscular strain in my groin. Everything is good! Just the bad thing, I need cancel every show in December, I will keep every promoter and you guys informed abut my recovery. Thank you, everybody! Thank you for your messages and your love, I wish that people in attendance returned with a smile after the show. My apologies to all people who were waiting for me in their city soon.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BqkiNgzhNfu/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

    With a schedule that has seen him extensively travel the world throughout 2018, wrestling for promotions such as CMLL, AAA, MLW, Impact Wrestling, and Lucha Underground, Fenix has been on an undeniable run this year.

    We wish Rey Fenix a speedy recovery and look forward to what he achieves come 2019.

  • Information Regarding Drake Maverick At Survivor Series

    Information Regarding Drake Maverick At Survivor Series

    One week ago at Survivor Series, AOP picked up a victory for Raw by defeating SmackDown tag team champions, Sheamus and Cesaro. However, their victory that night might not be what most people remember from their matchup.

    During the match, AOP manager — and 205 Live General Manager — Drake Maverick, suffered a rather unfortunate mishap on live TV. Having been chased by Cesaro, he was subsequently knocked down by the Big Show. Maverick was then hoisted onto the ring apron where he would proceed to urinate himself out of fear.

    As noted in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the contraption that Maverick used to produce fake urine didn’t work as expected.

    During the sequence, you can see Maverick adjusting the device in an attempt to remedy the problem. Supposedly it wasn’t enough to fix the issue so Maverick, being the consummate professional he is, purposely urinated himself in order to make sure the angle went off as planned.

    Drake Maverick has a positive reputation backstage as a great team player, so his commitment to his role at that moment may have some credence to it.

    What did you make of this angle? Does Drake Maverick deserve recognition for ensuring it went off as planned?

  • Not Even AJ Styles Knows What The Future Holds

    Not Even AJ Styles Knows What The Future Holds

    There has been much speculation over what the future holds for AJ Styles when his WWE contract expires next year. With New Japan Pro Wrestling potentially interested in him, and alternatives such as All Elite Wrestling coming into play, the Phenomenal One has a number of choices before him.

    Turns out that not even AJ Styles is sure of what the future will hold for himself.

    Speaking candidly, Styles opened up during the filming of the WWE Network’s latest episode to their 365 series. The show followed and documented a year of AJ’s life with the company.

    When asked what was left for him to accomplish or achieve, he replied with:

    “What’s left for me? I don’t really know,” he confessed. “I always will find something new and I’m not sure what that new is quite yet, but at the same time, I’ve been doing this for 19 years and at what point do I go and call it quits? I don’t know what that is, but I can tell you I’m very proud of the year that I had.”

    Styles is at an interesting point in his WWE career having just lost the belt to Daniel Bryan prior to Survivor Series. This loss broke the impressive streak he was accruing. Having asked for a pared-back schedule akin to Randy Orton’s, it will be interesting to see if the WWE grant him his requests and, if not, how Styles will respond.

    What do you think of AJ’s response? More importantly, where would you like him to end up?

  • Paige Would Love To Become A Manager In WWE

    Paige Would Love To Become A Manager In WWE

    Despite having suffered a tragic, career-ending injury, Paige has managed to segue herself into a new position within the WWE as SmackDown Live’s General Manager. This has allowed her an opportunity to stay within an industry she loves and maintain an on-screen character to portray. If Paige has her way, however, General Manager may not be her final role.

    Speaking with Planeta Wrestling, Paige revealed that she is open to exploring different creative directions and opportunities within the WWE.

    During the interview, she expressed specific interest in managing other talents, highlighting the relationship between Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar as one she would like to potentially emulate.

    “Right now, I’m really happy being SmackDown General Manager,” Paige admitted. “It’s opened so many different doors and I get to do so many different characters just being Smackdown General Manager — I get to be a good guy, bad guy, I get to do whatever I want,” she said.

    “I would love to be a manager — kinda like Paul Heyman, one day,” she confessed. “I would love to do anything like that. I wanted to manage Ronda at one point, but she doesn’t need me!”

    Who could you see Paige managing if she were to do so? Would she have made a good manager for Ronda Rousey?

  • Information On Becky Lynch’s Projected Return Date

    Information On Becky Lynch’s Projected Return Date

    With Becky Lynch having suffered a concussion and broken nose due to a heavy strike from Nia Jax, fans are eager to know when she will be medically cleared to come back to the ring.

    Unfortunately, according to Dave Meltzer, it won’t be anytime soon. He noted, “Yeah, [Becky Lynch is] off of everything. No return date. Well, it’s a concussion. Becky Lynch and Alexa Bliss are still waiting.”

    That one punch from Jax, which took place on the Monday Night Raw before Survivor Series, would deprive the WWE Universe of the hotly anticipated confrontation between Becky Lynch and Ronda Rousey at Survivor Series.

    Nia Jax would receive a raucous negative reaction from the Los Angeles crowd when she made her entrance for the 5 v 5 Women’s Survivor Series clash. She would eventually lead Team Raw to victory, showing off the hand that had hurt Lynch throughout.

    Despite not having a projected return date at this time, Becky Lynch has managed to maintain and grow her surge of popularity, using her social media accounts to great effect.

    Whether it’s an exchange with Conor McGregor or having to remind the WWE that she is their SmackDown Women’s champion, the Lass Kicker has guaranteed she remains relevant as she strives towards her return.

  • Jeff Cobb Shares His Thoughts On Ring Of Honor

    Jeff Cobb Shares His Thoughts On Ring Of Honor

    It didn’t take long for Jeff Cobb to establish himself as one of Ring Of Honor’s top stars. After ripping through the roster, interrupting matches and securing his place as a top prospect, Cobb would go on to decimate ‘Punishment’ Martinez at ROH’s 10/21 TV episode, picking up the TV title in an astounding 1 minute and 27 seconds.

    Speaking with Jim Ross on The Jim Ross Report podcast, Cobb covered a range of subjects, including his previous and current experiences with both New Japan Pro Wrestling and Ring Of Honor.

    Effusive with his praise, Jeff Cobb shared that he was truly enjoying his time at ROH so far and that he would be a part of their roster for the “foreseeable future.”

    “My time at Ring Of Honor has been fantastic!” he exclaimed. “Every taping that I’ve done, every live show, live event, that I’ve done, every pay-per-view that I’ve made an appearance in, I’ve had a blast.”

    “Like, all the dudes in the back are great, from the top to the bottom, everybody has just been awesome,” he said. “Like, the staff [has] been cool, the booker’s cool, [ROH COO] Joe Koff has been super nice to me,” he said, before adding, “[…] it [has] been a great time back there and I’ll be with Ring Of Honor for the foreseeable future.”

    Having made such an immediate impact within their ranks, it probably won’t be long before we see Cobb in ROH’s main event scene.

  • Update To Brock Lesnar’s WrestleMania 35 Opponent

    Update To Brock Lesnar’s WrestleMania 35 Opponent

    As we hurtle towards ‘The Road To Wrestlemania,’ we have an update on who the WWE Universal Champion, Brock Lesnar, could be facing come April 7th. Early reports highlighted that Lesnar might clash with Braun Strowman. However, according to Dave Meltzer, this may not actually be the case.

    Reported in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the current plan for Brock Lesnar now sees him taking on, Seth Rollins. Unless the WWE want to commit to a champion-versus-champion matchup, the implication is that Seth will drop the Intercontinental title. This could possibly take place against Dean Ambrose at TLC.

    It’s reported that the Rollins vs Lesnar feud will use Roman Reigns’ unfortunate diagnosis as a narrative starting point but there are no specifics at this time.

    Tabbles, Ladders and Chairs

    ‘The Beast Incarnate’ vs ‘The Monster Among Men’ seemed secure as Raw’s main event scene for the foreseeable future. However, with Strowman scheduled to receive elbow surgery in order to remove bone spurs, it leaves the WWE’s initial plans in limbo.

    Although still slated to face off against Baron Corbin at TLC, it is unclear about the surgery’s rehabilitation time. However, the WWE appears confident in a January return.

    The major stipulation for their clash would have seen Strowman receive a WWE Universal Title shot if victorious. Conversely, if Corbin were to succeed, he would gain full General Managership of Monday Night Raw.

    Supposedly, the original outcome would have seen Braun win in order to challenge Lesnar going forward.

    Contractual Obligations

    With only a handful of matches left on his renewed contract, the WWE will want to pair up their Universal Champion against top contenders as we head towards April.

    Post-WrestleMania, it is expected that Lesnar will wrap up all WWE commitments and return to the UFC, where it is speculated he will compete against the champ-champ, Daniel Cormier.

    What do you think of this matchup? Would you prefer Beast vs Monster or Beast vs Architect? 

  • Speculation On Backstage Heat With The Usos

    Speculation On Backstage Heat With The Usos

    One of the most consistent tag teams that the WWE have to offer at the moment are the Usos. This became especially true once they adopted their Day One gimmick, leaving the face paint in the past.

    However, much like other talented teams on the WWE roster (The Revival, for instance) the Usos just haven’t been able to break through in recent months. Even when they were champions, their latter reigns weren’t particularly memorable. Through no fault of their own, the initially stellar and then overextended feuds with the likes of The New Day became unintentionally stale.

    Down Since Day One

    Speaking on the ‘Oh, You Didn’t Know’ podcast, reporter Brad Shepard speculated on the Usos’ current position within the WWE.

    He said that he had an “[…] interesting conversation with a source in WWE about the Usos” before proclaiming them to be his pick as the “the greatest tag team of this generation.”

    When questioning his source about the Usos’ current placement on the roster and Network events, his source supposedly agreed with Shepard when asked: “Who the hell have the Usos pissed off?”

    “[…] they still manage to be on the kickoff show so much, yet they’re having legitimate exceptional matches by today’s standards,” he said. “They do well, yet they always end up, it seems like, in every case, they end up on the kickoff show and I don’t understand that one at all.”

  • Kenny Omega Explains Why He Hasn’t Signed With The WWE

    Kenny Omega Explains Why He Hasn’t Signed With The WWE

    Ever since Kenny Omega usurped AJ Styles to become then then-leader of the Bullet Club, prior to forming The Elite along with the Young Bucks, his career has been on an impressive upward trajectory.

    Whether it’s racking up victories in the ring, picking up prestigious championship titles, or growing his audience via his Twitch streams and competitive video game appearances, Kenny Omega is consistently at the forefront, his stock, seemingly, still rising.

    So, when interviewed by The Business Times and asked why he hasn’t signed with the WWE, ‘The Best Bout Machine’ had a lot to say on the matter, making sure to highlight that he is “very much a part of representing an alternative.”

    Viable Alternatives

    “If my motivation was money, I would already be in the WWE,” he stated, frankly. “I was down on the current product and I wanted to create a style and have matches that my friends, my family and other athletes could watch and enjoy.”

    He extrapolated his point, asserting that “[…] there’s a certain kind of wrestling fan that will only like a certain style. They think that’s the right way, and that’s okay, but I’m not trying to impress those people. Those people are already kind of set in their ways. I’m trying to open the world to a different style, what pro wrestling has the potential to be.”

    Omega then stressed the importance of choice for fans, saying, “Everyone has a choice to watch whatever they want. It’s okay to like both or other promotions, too.”

    “When I was growing up, I thought there was only WWE,” he confessed. “That’s it. One promotion in the world. And then, as I grew up, I found that there’s local wrestling. There’s WCW, there’s ECW. In Mexico, there are the luchadores. And then, finally, I realized there’s wrestling in Japan. I think for many people, they think there’s one giant promotion and that’s all that there is. It must be the best. But as they expand their palate and their horizons, they realize that, oh, there’s other wrestling out there. They might not necessarily like it more but it’s an option now.”

    With the advent of streaming services, the rise of true, viable alternatives has become all the more prevalent, with fans who are bored or unsatisfied with the WWE’s product quickly finding a promotion more in line with what they enjoy — a fact Kenny is well aware of as he wrapped up his thoughts on the matter: “It’s cool that there are so many options for people all over the planet.”

  • Main Roster Plans For Lars Sullivan

    Main Roster Plans For Lars Sullivan

    It was revealed during Survivor Series weekend that Lars Sullivan would be moving up from NXT to the main roster, despite still being embroiled in feuds with members of the NXT locker room, including Keith Lee.

    Since then, new details have emerged about which brand he is heading to, and what the initial plan for Sullivan would be.

    Freak Accident

    Speaking on the ‘Oh, You Didn’t Know’ podcast, reporter Brad Shepard commented on WWE’s decision in drafting Sullivan to SmackDown Live.

    He stated that “[…] they believe that he would be overlooked on the main roster, especially if he goes to RAW because, basically, Strowman is a bigger Lars Sullivan right down to the mountain man look and beard.”

    It’s a fair comparison, though the decision does deprive fans of a potential Sullivan vs Strowman confrontation. That is until the WWE decide they want to see such a showdown take place.

    Shepard adds that “They [the WWE] believe Lars would start on SmackDown and work with some smaller talent, in the beginning, to be successful.”

    Sounds like Lars may be booked much in the same way as Strowman was (post-Wyatt Family breakup), with squash matches demonstrating his brute power and aggression before moving onto deeper storylines and feuds.

    What do you make of this? Would you have preferred Lars on Raw, eventually feuding with Strowman? Is this the kind of performer that SmackDown has been missing?

  • Information On AJ Styles’ Current WWE Status

    Information On AJ Styles’ Current WWE Status

    AJ Styles has proven himself a consistently popular superstar ever since his phenomenal debut during the 2016 Royal Rumble. He has had a plethora of main event matches and some fantastic feuds during his time within the WWE, breaking records and rubbing shoulders with the greats along the way.

    With supposed renewed interest from NJPW in bringing back a number of superstars that signed with the WWE, and AJ Styles’ contract due for renegotiation come April 2019, it’s fair to speculate over where the Phenomenal One will end up once his initial WWE contract has expired, especially as he just recently dropped the belt to Daniel Bryan, ending an impressive streak as WWE Champion.

    Commenting on the subject recently was Mike Johnson, who addressed Styles’ current status with the WWE.

    He observed that “[…] traditionally when someone’s deal is coming due they’re not really featured in a major way in a pay-per-view. Although there are exceptions to that,” he admitted. “Jeff Hardy being against CM Punk a few years ago and things of that nature, and Punk against John Cena where Punk could have left, so there are exceptions to the rule. It’s not a hard-rule.”

    “But one would think WWE will start to downplay him a little bit if they don’t lock him into a longer-term deal. Those discussions are on-going now so we’ll see what happens.”

    With real alternatives beginning to rear their head, it would be interesting to see where a number of these talents, including AJ, decide to call home in the future.

    What do you think? Would you prefer AJ Styles to stay in the WWE? Maybe go back to New Japan, or potentially even All Elite Wrestling?

  • Popular Superstar Predicated To Replace Baron Corbin As Raw GM

    Popular Superstar Predicated To Replace Baron Corbin As Raw GM

    With Baron Corbin having been Raw’s main authority figure for months now, going so far as to adopt the nickname ‘Constable’ Corbin, he appears to have secured a top position helping Stephanie McMahon run the red brand.

    WrestleMania Bound

    That could all change after his match up against Braun Strowman at December’s TLC event.

    The stipulation for their confrontation is simple: if Strowman wins, he receives a Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar. If Corbin wins, his position as Raw General Manager becomes permanent.

    It’s predicated that Strowman will be getting his hand raised in order to feud with Lesnar into WrestleMania. If that’s the case, the immediate question becomes: who will replace Corbin as Raw GM?

    Lil’ Miss.

    According to Mike Johnson of PWInsiderElite, it could be none other than Lil’ Miss Bliss, Alexa Bliss.

    Johnson states that Bliss went through medical testing whilst out in Los Angeles, highlighting there was “no clearcut indication that she was returning to the ring anytime soon.”

    He clarified his statement, adding, “it doesn’t mean that it’s not going to happen. […] to the best of my knowledge, it’s not a Paige situation where she’s been permanently sat out, but it did seem like, ‘Ok in two weeks you’re going to be good to go, or in three weeks you’re going to be good to go.”

    “[…] They’ll probably still keep testing her,” he said. “There was some expectation backstage at Raw that, when they come out of TLC, Alexa Bliss will probably end up the General Manager of Raw, which makes sense when you think about it. But given how they change ideas so quickly I don’t know that’s definitely 100% the plan.”