SEScoops

Author: Steve Russell

  • NJPW Hype Destruction In Kobe With New YouTube Series, ‘The Wire’

    NJPW Hype Destruction In Kobe With New YouTube Series, ‘The Wire’

    As if NJPW’s new mini-documentary series, ‘The Recount,’ wasn’t enough of a statement of intent, New Japan has now begun releasing a series of news videos entitled ‘The Wire.’

    The first of these videos, once again catering towards a growing Western audience, previews the upcoming battle between Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada. The rivals will face off once more this coming Sunday at Destruction in Kobe for the right to challenge Kenny Omega for the IWGP Heavyweight title at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

    The matchup sees Tanahashi defending his G1 briefcase as he attempts to best Okada, who fought Tanahashi to a time limit draw during the G1. If Okada were to come out victorious, he would claim the G1 briefcase and the contract inside guaranteeing a title match next January 4th.

    When asked by a reporter, “When do you hope to face Okada for the contract?” Tanahashi was thoughtful in response: “When should it be? I want to face him before my nerve fades away.”

    That honest reply has led to another match between these rivals, in a series that many consider the best NJPW feud in decades, if not ever.

    With ‘The Recount’ and now ‘The Wire,’ as well as another new show called ‘Top 5,’ it doesn’t appear that New Japan will be slowing down their aggressive expansion West any time soon.

  • Alexa Bliss Suffering From Numbness In Her Arm

    Alexa Bliss Suffering From Numbness In Her Arm

    We have an update on the injury that has taken Alexa Bliss out of action. The former Raw Women’s Champion was pulled from this week’s Mixed Match Challenge tournament. She is also being kept of this weekend’s WWE live events. WWE stated that Bliss injured her arm during her match against Ronda Rousey at Hell in a Cell. The Wrestling Observer has provided an update on the situation and it’s not good.

    The Observer reports, “Bliss is suffering from numbness in her left arm. The storyline reason behind it is the armbar Rousey used to beat her at Hell in a Cell.”

    As of this writing, Alexa Bliss has been cleared for “minimal exertion.” She won’t be wrestling full matches until she gets checked out again. Numbness in the extremities is a sign of nerve damage, which has shortened the careers of many Superstars.

    WWE Statement

    The official WWE response to the injury was reported this past Tuesday by Cathy Kelley. She highlighted that “despite appearing on Monday Night Raw last night, Alexa Bliss woke up this morning and sought medical attention complaining about numbness in her left arm.”

    WWE is using Ronda Rousey’s armbar finisher to explain Bliss’ arm injury. Cathy Kelley continued ,”As a reminder, Alexa had a match against the Raw Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey this past Sunday night at WWE Hell In A Cell, where Alexa tapped to the champion’s armbar. We can officially announce at this time that Alexa Bliss has not been medically cleared to compete at the WWE Live Events this weekend or in tonight’s WWE Mixed Match Challenge.”

    We hope that the injury Bliss is dealing with isn’t too serious and wish her a speedy recovery.

  • Rumor On Ronda Rousey’s Wrestlemania 35 Opponent

    Rumor On Ronda Rousey’s Wrestlemania 35 Opponent

    There is an interesting rumor going around about Ronda Rousey’s WrestleMania 35 opponent. For months, there has been speculation that the RAW Women’s Champion was on a collision course with SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte. Wrestling pundits and fans alike have speculated that this bout could be the first women’s match to ever headline a WrestleMania.

    Rousey vs. Charlotte could still very well happen. However, another name has surfaced as a potential challenger to Ronda Rousey on April 7th, 2019. It would be the culmination of a longtime feud that even UFC could not make happen. The latest rumored opponent for Ronda Rousey at WrestleMania is none other than UFC Women’s Featherweight champion Cris Cyborg. Cyborg called in to Ariel Helwani’s MMA Show and commented on the possibility of working with Rousey at WrestleMania.

    Cyborg Call In

    Ariel Helwani broached the subject of WWE wanting to bring Cyborg in to work with Ronda Rousey. “The WWE are considering trying to sign you to have you compete against Ronda Rousey at Wrestlemania 35 next year in New Jersey, is this accurate?”

    Cyborg was cryptic in her response, but seemed to be open to the idea, “I don’t know, I just heard this news today. If it is happening, maybe we can give all the fans the fight they’ve never seen…I think it would be great for all the fans that would like to watch but I’m not sure about that 100%, but…I’ll talk to my manager and see what’s going to be if its a good thing or not. I don’t know. Maybe it happens, maybe not.”

    The topic ended with Helwani asking, “ So you’d be interested if the deal is right?”

    Cyborg gave an responded with enthusiasm. “Yes, it would be great. I think it would be great.”

    Ronda Rousey vs. Cyborg at WrestleMania 35?

    Rousey and Cyborg actually have quite a storied history. Ronda arrived in Strikeforce in 2011, back when Cyborg was already a champion, before eventually carving a historic path in the UFC. It would take a while before the two women were once again in the same organization.

    A dream match between the two competitors would never take place, unfortunately. The weight difference between the athletes is what was blamed for this, with the two women fighting at different weight classes and no catch weight bout ever successfully negotiated.

    In the past, Cyborg has been critical of Rousey, believing Ronda was scared about facing her inside the octagon.

    “[…] when you see her [Rousey] fight Holly [Holm] and Amanda [Nunes],” she said to The Ring Report, “you see why she ran from me. She didn’t want to fight me, for sure.”

    Cyborg has also enjoyed poking light fun at her one-time potential opponent via Twitter:

    If the match were to go down, it would be a coup for the WWE, bringing to a head a feud that has lasted many years, across numerous promotions, and even entirely different entertainment mediums.

    Who would you rather see Ronda face off against? Charlotte Flair or Cris Cyborg?

  • Update On Jeff Hardy & Matt’s Compound After Hurricane Florence

    Update On Jeff Hardy & Matt’s Compound After Hurricane Florence

    Despite having been written off SmackDown Live due to injuries sustained at Hell In A Cell, Jeff Hardy is still competing at WWE Live Events. Hardy worked a WWE Live Event in Oklahoma City this past Monday night. He competed in a 6-person tag team match, teaming with AJ Styles and R-Truth. They defeated the team of Samoa Joe, Randy Orton and the United States Champion, Shinsuke Nakamura. He is scheduled this weekend’s WWE live events

    There is no indication as to how long the WWE will keep Hardy off of WWE programming as they continue to sell the severity of the injuries suffered. WWE previously provided a storyline update on Hardy, stating that he had complained of “severe abdominal pains backstage.” It was then reported that he had begun to cough up blood whilst in transit to a hospital.

    Woken Warrior

    His brother, Matt Hardy, has also been in the news recently, with what appeared to be a retirement announcement.

    Matt’s WWE contract expires next March. His future opportunities with the company allegedly depend on the continued treatment of his lower back and pelvis. If the treatment goes well, there may be a chance he could return to in-ring competition within the WWE.

    As if undergoing treatment wasn’t enough, he and his family are undergoing a major clean up effort at the Hardy Compound, thanks to Hurricane Florence.

  • Dwayne Johnson Debuts “Project Rock” Under Armour Collection

    Dwayne Johnson Debuts “Project Rock” Under Armour Collection

    Not content with his placement as the highest-paid actor in the history of Forbes’ Celebrity 100 list, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson continues to be the hardest working man in Hollywood.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BlVwla_l-Zr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Dwayne Johnson has partnered with Under Armour, releasing a new range that debuted today.

    Entitled “Project Rock,” the collection is officially described by Johnson via the Under Armour website as, “[…] a movement of people willing to put in the work. What we work for is what we become. Finding strength in the struggle. Joy in the grind. Excitement in the challenge. Always recognizing that the project of ‘you’ is never finished. Because there is always more work to do. And together with Under Armour, we’ve designed this gear to work just as hard as you do.”

    The Rock tweeted out this morning to his 12.9 million followers, mentioning that this was the “most anticipated collection of 2018.” He would go on to call the collaboration the “#AllDayHustleCollection,” before telling his fans to “Stay strong. Train hard. Enjoy the gear.”

    His words accompanied a hype video for the product launch, which you can watch below:

    You can view the entire “Project Rock” range here.

    What do you think? Will you be embracing the “All Day Hustle” collection?

  • NJPW Release English Documentary Series On YouTube

    NJPW Release English Documentary Series On YouTube

    New Japan Pro Wrestling continue to cater to their ever growing Western fanbase. For those unfamiliar with the promotion’s 46-year-old history, NJPW is now releasing a series of mini-documentaries to YouTube.

    Called ‘The Recount,’ the videos feature English NJPW commentator Kevin Kelly providing context and history. The documentaries are focused on getting new, English speaking fans up to speed on a number of key historical moments. So far, they have uploaded docs on the IWGP US title and the history of the Bullet Club.

    In the past few weeks, the NJPW Global twitter account has been openly asking fans what kind of English content they would like to see, asking the Twitterverse, “It’s time to hear from you. What would you like to see from us in terms of new English content?”

    English speaking NJPW fans were quick to respond to the question, sparking this response from NJPW:

    This ‘Recount’ series follows on the heels of the recently released “California Dreaming” two-part series NJPW uploaded to YouTube. That series followed Katsuyori Shibata in his journey becoming the head coach of the NJPW LA Dojo.

    With NJPW releasing even more English content, providing English commentary on the majority of their NJPW World shows, and actively engaging and responding to their burgeoning fanbase, it’s clear that NJPW has concrete plans of trying to further break and develop their brand in the West.

  • News On Kane’s WWE Return

    News On Kane’s WWE Return

    WWE will be donating $100,000 to the Knoxville Public Safety Foundation in exchange for their newly elected mayor, Glenn Jacobs (who has a long career in the WWE as Kane) making appearances for the company this fall.

    WWE Chairman Vince McMahon commented on the donation in a press release, saying, “ I appreciate his gesture to the heroes who selflessly put themselves in harm’s way and look forward to his continued progress in his mission.”

    Glenn Jacobs responded in kind, “I’m extremely proud that my career with WWE will have a positive impact on the community through my role as Knox County Mayor.”

    Big Red Mayor

    Jacobs won the mayoral election in Knox County, Tennessee in early August of this year. His election run didn’t stop him from appearing on WWE, however.

    Just a month earlier, he would be on fans’ screens worldwide, competing with his former tag team partner, Daniel Bryan, in a losing effort against the then SmackDown tag team champions, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan.

    Since his election, however, he has committed himself to his mayoral duties.

    That changed this past Monday on Raw.

    Brothers Of Destruction

    During the show, The Undertaker cut a promo on his upcoming match at WWE Super Show-Down in Australia. He stated that if Triple H will have Shawn Michaels in his corner, then “The Deadman” will have his brother, Kane, in his.

    WWE Super Show-Down (Under)

    • Triple H (with Shawn Michaels) vs. The Undertaker (with Kane)
    • #1 Contender’s Match: Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz
    • WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe
    • John Cena and Bobby Lashley vs. Elias and Kevin Owens
    • The Shield (Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns) vs. Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre – Six-Man Tag Team Match
    • Ronda Rousey & The Bella Twins vs. The Riott Squad – Six-Woman Tag Team Match
    • WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander vs. Buddy Murphy
    • Asuka and Naomi vs. Billie Kay and Peyton Royce
  • WWE And Impact Officials Meet At WWE HQ

    WWE And Impact Officials Meet At WWE HQ

    It has been reported that Impact Wrestling officials, Ed Nordholm and Scott D’Amore, were involved in a meeting with high ranking WWE executives.

    The meeting took place at WWE HQ in Stamford, Connecticut during the middle of last week. Vince McMahon was supposedly not involved in the meeting, but members of Triple H’s team were in attendence.

    The matters discussed have not bee disclosed. Given the Impact officials’ hectic travelling schedule, it could indicate the importance of it.

    Travel

    Nordholm and D’Amore returned to the United States from Manchester, United Kingdom. They were able to attend the meeting before heading straight to Mexico City for a pair of scheduled Impact Wrestling tapings.

    A WWE source allegedly described the meeting as a general discussion between the two companies. It was viewed as providing all parties an opportunity to be in the same room to discuss their future business relationship.

    Networking

    WWE has actually worked with Impact Wrestling on a number of occasions since Impact was purchased by Anthem.

    Previous discussions brokered the use of the TNA/Impact Wrestling video library for WWE Network content, such as with the Hardy Boyz “Broken Universe” and older AJ Styles footage.

  • Hiroshi Tanahashi Critical Of Kenny Omega’s In-Ring Style

    Hiroshi Tanahashi Critical Of Kenny Omega’s In-Ring Style

    It appears that NJPW’s Ace, Hiroshi Tanahashi, may already be looking past Kazuchika Okada and Jay White. In an interview with a Japanese radio station, Tanahashi had some harsh words for his future opponent, Kenny Omega. This is assuming he can defend his G1 briefcase against both Chaos members.

    Translated from Japanese, Tanahashi criticized Omega’s in-ring style. The wrestler claimed that it lacks drama because there is no narrative flow to his matches.

    “Kenny’s puroresu is like watching a movie with no Kishotenketsu (dramatic arc of traditional Japanese narratives).”

    Tanahashi stated that only the last 5 minutes of an Omega match matter because there’s no story being told.

    Begrudging Respect

    He admitted that he respected previous Bullet Club leaders, Prince Devitt (now wrestling as Finn Balor in the WWE) and AJ Styles, believing they were dedicated to the Bullet Club.

    With Omega, however, he thinks that ‘The Best Bout Machine’ has a poor attitude – one that leads him to want to “own” everything.

    Kenny has had some harsh words in the past for his potential Wrestle Kingdom opponent, calling Tanahashi a “complete egomaniac” and describing his fanbase as a “dwindling mini cult.”

    G1 Vengeance

    The winner of the G1 Climax tournament receives a briefcase with a contract for a title shot at Wrestle Kingdom inside. 

    Tanahashi, this year’s winner, was quick to highlight two opponents he wanted to face before Wrestle Kingdom 13 on January 4th 2019.

    “Switchblade” Jay White was the only wrestler to defeat Tanahashi. Okada fought him to an epic 30-minute draw on the final night of the tournament. The Ace hasn’t forgotten.

    What do you Tanahashi’s chances are of making it to the Tokyo Dome in order to claim his opportunity? And do you agree with Tanahashi’s opinion on Omega?

  • WWE Provides Medical Updates On Jeff Hardy, Dolph Ziggler

    WWE Provides Medical Updates On Jeff Hardy, Dolph Ziggler

    Following last night’s Hell In A Cell event, the WWE has released medical updates on Jeff Hardy and Dolph Ziggler.

    Jeff Hardy promised to deliver the “unexpected,” and he certainly delivered on that promise after working his way across one of the Cell’s support beams before attempting a splash on a prone Randy Orton, only for “The Viper” to move out the way. All that met Hardy on the way down was the table that Orton had, just moments ago, been laid across.

    Engimatic Enigma

    “Following his brutal Hell in a Cell Match against Randy Orton, Jeff Hardy was tended to by EMTs at ringside. [WWE Social Media Correspondent] Cathy Kelley then reported on Instagram that Hardy complained of severe abdominal pains backstage, prompting WWE medical personnel to have him transported to a local medical facility.”

    Michael Cole would later inform the audience that Hardy began coughing blood on the way to the hospital.

    Cathy Kelley rounded out the report, informing the WWE Universe that Jeff would be kept overnight for “further observation.”

    Stealing The Show

    Hardy wasn’t the only superstar to go flying from the Hell In A Cell last night. Both Seth Rollins and Dolph Ziggler found themselves victim to gravity, plummeting from the side of the cage after a tense exchange.

    WWE had this update on Ziggler:

    “After falling off the side of the Hell in a Cell structure during Roman Reigns’ Universal Championship Match against Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler was looked at by WWE medical personnel, but he refused to go to a local medical facility. Instead, Ziggler left the AT&T Center under his own power alongside tag team partner Drew McIntyre.”

  • Watch: MLW WAR GAMES (Video)

    Watch: MLW WAR GAMES (Video)

    Major League Wrestling (MLW) has uploaded its recent War Games encounter to their YouTube channel. MLW upload a new show to their channel every Saturday as part of a weekly series entitled MLW Fusion.

    The caged warfare sees the MLW debuts of both Tommy Dreamer and Abyss. Both of are competing for the first time in a War Games environment.

    Caged Warfare

    The YouTube summary provides context as to what has led to the heated matchup. It gives a detailed breakdown for those interested but unfamiliar with the current MLW product:

    “Sami Callihan and his Death Machines have targeted underdog Kotto Brazil and the mighty 469 pound Barrington Hughes after taking out their childhood hero MVP. […] All summer long Kotto and Barrington have clashed with Callihan and his Death Machines on MLW FUSION.”

    Turning to the team leaders, the official MLW description explains:

    “John Hennigan and Callihan collided in the final stages of the Battle Riot match and sources indicate there are undisclosed issues between the two that may be revealed on MLW Fusion in the weeks ahead.”

    War Games sees Sami Callihan and his team, the Ravagers – consisting of Jimmy Havoc, the Death Machines (Fulton and Leon Scott) and Abyss – go up against the John Hennigan helmed grouping of Tommy Dreamer, Barrington Hughes, Kotto Brazil, and Shane Strickland.

    With major feuds coming to a head inside 2 rings surrounded by steel, available via YouTube for free, it’s a great opportunity for curious fans to see what MLW is all about.

  • Jeff Hardy Promises The “Unexpected” Ahead Of HIAC

    Jeff Hardy Promises The “Unexpected” Ahead Of HIAC

    Matt Hardy may have recently retired, but that hasn’t stopped his brother, Jeff, from looking ahead to tonight’s Hell In A Cell match up against his opponent, “The Viper” Randy Orton. Speaking with TalkSport.com, Jeff Hardy had this to say in anticipation of his first Hell In A Cell matchup, Jeff said he can’t wait to see what he can do in his first-ever Hell in a Cell match.

    “Expect The Unexpected”

    He promises that the encounter in the newly red Cell will be “memorable,” and that he intends to do “something that people won’t forget,” before stating, “I think my thoughts are too big for my size sometimes, but I’ve got a lot of good ideas of what I can do inside that structure and this Sunday is when we find what will happen.”

    “It will be a very memorable Jeff Hardy match,” he declared, before adding, “Expect the unexpected.”

    When thinking on the possibilities, Hardy said, “[…] when I found out I got really excited about it, like a youthful spark from a Jeff Hardy in his twenties. I never asked, but they sure are giving it to me, so we’ll see what happens.”

    Daredevil Attitude

    The anticipation for their caged confrontation has led Hardy to study the previous Hell In A Cell matches, with him observing that “Randy Orton has been in six or seven of them, which is crazy. He’s very familiar with the structure and I’m not, but I’ve got a lot of big ideas and I’m going to try and pull them off.”

    As unforgettable as Jeff wants to make this match, let’s hope that the well-known daredevil doesn’t endanger himself in his attempts at making Hell In A Cell history.

    Hell In A Cell takes place tonight and is available to stream on the WWE Network.

    So who do you think is going to come away with a victory tonight? Randy Orton? Or Jeff Hardy?

  • Matt Hardy Retires, Thanks Fans (Video)

    Matt Hardy Retires, Thanks Fans (Video)

    Matt Hardy appears Matt Hardy is retiring as a full-time active competitor. Hardy competed at Saturday night’s WWE live event from Corpus Christi, Texas. Afterwards, he posted a video on Youtube

    “There’s been a lot of speculation for quite a while online if I’m going to be wrestling any longer or not, and WWE, fortunately, they let me fulfill all my advertised commitments,” Hardy said. “But tonight, here in Corpus Christi, this was the last advertised commitment I had. And I never say never, but tonight, here in Corpus Christi, is most likely the last time you’ll ever see Woken Matt Hardy in a WWE ring.”

    Watch Matt Hardy announce his retirement:

    Some fans are speculating that Matt Hardy is simply retiring his “Woken” character, but the ‘description’ of the above YouTube video clarifies that he is in fact stepping away from the ring.

    “Thank you for letting me live my dream for 26 years, wrestling fans,” Hardy wrote. “I don’t necessarily wish it was this way, but it’s time to go home. Time to go home and be a father. Time to go home and be a husband. I did so much more than I ever imagined I would do. Thanks for making this incredible journey with me, ladies and gentlemen. I love you all.”

    Team Xtreme

    Matt Hardy debuted for the company as a teenager in 1994 before earning himself a contract in 1998. He would go on to great success with his brother, Jeff, as they would revolutionize tag team wrestling in legendary feuds against teams like The Dudley Boyz and Edge & Christian.

    It has been rumoured that Hardy has been suffering from a serious back injury, so transitioning to a backstage role would not only protect him but allow him to continue to contribute to the industry he loves so much.

    Although yet to be confirmed by the WWE, the implication is clear. Sadly, it appears that Matt Hardy’s stellar in-ring career has come to an end.

    What are some of the most memorable Matt Hardy moments for you? Favorite matches, returns, or twists of fate?

  • “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey Debuts New Move (Video)

    “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey Debuts New Move (Video)

    RAW Women’s champion, “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey continues to evolve in her new role within the WWE, as she debuted a new move into her arsenal this past Friday during a live event in Edinburgh, Texas.

    Ronda has added a gut wrench powerbomb into her moveset, unleashing it during a house show match that saw her retain over former champ-Alexa Bliss, days before their championship rematch at tonight’s Hell In A Cell pay-per-view.

    You can watch Rousey execute the move in the video below:

    Her love of pro wrestling and, in particular, her personal fandom of “Rowdy” Roddy Piper has been well documented, and she has done an impressive job so far in the role that has been given to her. Many were positively surprised after her debut match went down at this year’s Wrestlemania 34, where she teamed with Kurt Angle, defeating Triple H and Stephanie McMahon via submission.

    It’s reaffirming to see Ronda Rousey endeavour to continuously apply herself as she continues to transition from former Mixed Martial Arts competitor into WWE Superstar. With a love for the product, a natural aptitude, undeniable athleticism, and a willingness to grow and change, Ronda could well be on her way to becoming one of the best in the business.

    Hell In A Cell

    WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman – Hell In A Cell Match With Mick Foley As Special Guest Referee

    WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe

    WWE RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey vs. Alexa Bliss

    The Miz & Maryse vs. Daniel Bryan & Brie Bella – Mixed Tag Team Match

    Jeff Hardy vs. Randy Orton – Hell In A Cell Match

    WWE RAW Tag Team Champions Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre vs. Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose

    WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch

    SmackDown Tag Team Champions The New Day vs. Rusev and Aiden English  – Pre-Show

  • Batista Provides WWE Update

    Batista Provides WWE Update

    It looks like Dave Batista won’t be at the historic 1000th episode of SmackDown Live. “The Animal” responded to a fan’s question on Twitter over whether he would be involved with the event or not, replying, “Surprise, surprise, I wasn’t invited!”

    As if to add further insult, the 1000th episode of SmackDown takes place in his hometown of Washington, DC – something Batista highlighted in his Tweet.

    Batista has been incredibly vocal in recent weeks over his longing for the squared circle, admitting that he “thinks about it [wrestling] daily. I miss it daily. I love it, I have a passion for wrestling. I feel that at the core of me that’s just who I am. I’m a physical performer, and I miss it every day.”

    SmackDown 1000

    SmackDown Live 1000 takes place on October 16th from the Capital One Arena in DC. The projected card (as advertised by the area itself) for the night looks stacked so far, though WWE have not yet officially confirmed them: 

    • Jeff Hardy vs Randy Orton
    • The Miz vs Daniel Bryan
    • WWE Champion AJ Styles vs Samoa Joe

    With it being a milestone episode of the show, WWE will probably attempt to bring in a lot of former superstars that became synonymous with SmackDown and it’s success, including WWE Hall Of Famer, Edge, and The Undertaker, to name just a few. 

    With Jericho offering Batista an “open invitation” into the Alpha Club in NJPW, and Batista’s name still a recognisable commodity within the industry, Batista probably has some very real alternative options if he ever chose to wrestle for another company. As it stands, “The Animal” appears to have unfortunately been left outside in the cold by the WWE once again.

  • Jimmy Hart Impostor Claims He’s Attending Klan Event

    Jimmy Hart Impostor Claims He’s Attending Klan Event

    “The Mouth Of The South” Jimmy Hart has run into some issues with Twitter after a fake account claimed that he would be in attendance at a “klan rally.”

    “there is a twitter account (claiming to be me) that states I will be attending a klan rally – that is not that case,” Hart declared, before stating, “I will not be at a klan rally.”

    He also reached out to Twitter’s official account, @verified, which determines which accounts will receive a ‘Blue Tick.’ That tick acts as a visual indicator that confirms that the actual celebrity/personality owns that Twitter account.

    Verification

    Without that Blue Tick, it’s far too easy for fake accounts to trick fans into following them and the lies they might spread.

    Many superstars have had issues with fake accounts trolling fans, interacting with their fanbase whilst posing as the celebrities they are impersonating.

    In the case of Jimmy Hart, however, the best thing he could have done is reach out the way he has done. It not only directly highlights the fact he won’t be attending this rally but also that some public personalities could do with the verification, if only so their fans won’t be left confused over potential poser activity that could ruin a person’s reputation.

  • Alexa Bliss Comments On Becky Lynch’s “Attitude Adjustment”

    Alexa Bliss Comments On Becky Lynch’s “Attitude Adjustment”

    Whilst on a recent media call, ex-Raw Women’s Champion, Alexa Bliss, commented on Becky Lynch’s recent “attitude change.” Bliss said that she was “always in favour when someone has a certain attitude adjustment and she undergoes a change,” before she confessed, “I think it’s been a long time coming for Becky.”

    “I think that attitude change is what she’s needed,” Bliss noted, before praising Lynch’s fire and spark. “The attitude change really allows her to show that. Where, before, she was restricted. I think it just fits her far better.” 

    Becky Lynch turned on her former best friend, Charlotte Flair, after the end of their triple threat match at SummerSlam in August.  Flair would hit her signature move, the Natural Selection, on her friend as Lynch was moments away from making Carmella tap out to her finisher, the Dis-Arm-Her. 

    Since that moment, the two have been sniping back and forth as tensions continue to rise, with fan support seemingly firmly with Becky, as we head towards their eagerly anticipated confrontation at Hell In A Cell this Sunday. 

    Hell In A Cell also sees Alexa Bliss receive her mandatory rematch against former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, and current WWE Raw Women’s champion, “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey. Rousey bested Bliss for the championship at SummerSlam. 

    Join us here this Sunday for WWE Hell in a Cell Results & Live Coverage. 

  • Cody Shoots Back At Firing Squad

    Cody Shoots Back At Firing Squad

    The civil war rages on within Bullet Club. With Cody and leader of the BC, Kenny Omega, having found common ground after their war at the G1 Special in San Francisco, things finally looked – as the Club are fond of saying – fine.

    That didn’t last long, as the Guerrillas of Destiny (comprised that night by Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and their father Haku) proceeded to attack their stablemates and proclaim themselves the Firing Squad.

    The war of words between Tama Tonga and Cody continued today, with the latter responding to Tama’s expert baiting. The Tongan claimed that Bullet Club “belongs to New Japan – not ROH or anyone else.”

    Cody’s Civil War

    Cody, who was commanding his own civil war against leader, Omega, finally put aside his claim for leadership of the Club after their match up back in July – with the Firing Squad forming a common enemy within their own ranks for them to now turn their attention to, if they chose.

    It’s unclear as to how this secondary Bullet Club civil war will transpire. Tama has had longstanding issues with the leadership and direction of the Bullet Club, taking offence to the The Elite existing within the faction at all.

    Given the betrayal at the G1 Special and their use of social media to further the division, here’s hoping that the story and payoff are as developed as the recent Cody/Omega civil war.

    What do you think? Did the Bullet Club need another civil war so soon? Who will win it this time? And who do you think is coming out on top in these Twitter exchanges?

  • Scott Steiner Insults Current WWE Product, Stephanie McMahon

    Scott Steiner Insults Current WWE Product, Stephanie McMahon

    Scott Steiner has never been one to mince his words, and this short interview with WhatCulture, captured during All In weekend at Starrcast, proves that all over again.

    In just over four minutes, Steiner puts the current WWE product on blast, insults both Stephanie McMahon and Triple H, and expresses his amazement with All In’s success. That’s quite a lot of ground for Big Poppa Pump to cover in such a short period of time.

    “Nobody Wants To Watch That Bulls**it”

    When speaking on All In, Steiner couldn’t help but juxtapose its unmitigated success with the rise and popularity of the nWo during its peak.

    “There was, like, two times since I’ve been wrestling, the last 25, 30 years when the nWo was hot, you know. I mean, that [the nWo’s fandom] was unprecedented, the sellouts, the record numbers of merch sales and everything. And like today, this is like the first time – I mean, they sold out in like 30 minutes. For an independent show, I’ve never heard of that before.”

    The praise soon turned to bitter reflection, as Steiner then reflected the All In experience against the current WWE product.

    “It just goes to show you nobody wants to watch that bulls**t that WWE puts out right now. You know, that product’s f*****g horrible.”

    Steiner blamed WWE for neutering their own talent, claiming that the company “pigeon hole”s its superstars, lumbering them with “stupid characters.”

    “They make everybody do the same interviews that they print out,” he stated. “You can’t expand, you know, be creative. It’s not what my picture of what wrestling was. And when things sell out like this, it proves that.”

    Big Poppa Pump also claimed that his time with the company was “f*****g brutal,” before lambasting Stephanie McMahon, claiming that the WWE now has “one of the biggest c**** running it,” subsequently questioning her understanding and knowledge about wrestling.

    Scott Steiner shot to fame tagging with his brother, Rick, as the Steiner Brothers. He would later go on to find singles success during the final years of WCW before a short stint in the WWE during 2002-2004.

  • Update On Pentagon Jr & Rey Fenix

    Update On Pentagon Jr & Rey Fenix

    Over the past few weeks, there has been a lot of talk regarding the futures of Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix. At one point, it seemed as though the Lucha Bros.’ future appeared obvious: WWE. However, Pentagon Jr. stated over the weekend that he is “not going anywhere” any time soon.

    According to Dave Meltzer, Pentagon and Fenix are currently tied up with their Lucha Underground contracts. He speculated that they might have an “out” clause after the current season ends, at which point they’d be able to negotiate with other companies. They very well might wind up in WWE next year, but you can be sure there will also be interest in the companies like Lucha Underground, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Libre AAA and MLW.

    Independent Living

    With so much interest in them from such major promotions, Pentagon Jr. and Fenix have the rare opportunity to control their own destiny with their decision.
    With The Young Bucks, Cody, and Kenny Omega having spearheaded a revolution, demonstrating that you don’t necessarily need the WWE to have a successful career in wrestling, all the wrestling world can do is wait in anticipation to see where they end up.

    Championship Bros.

    Pentagon Jr. has accomplished a lot on the independent scene. He has won the AAW Heavyweight Championship, AAA Latin American Championship, Impact World Championship, and Lucha Underground Championship.

    Fenix accomplishments include the AAW Heavyweight Championship and currently, he is the AAA Mega Champion. He is also a former Lucha Underground Champion.
    The Lucha Bros. currently hold the MLW World Tag Team Championship for Major League Wrestling.

  • PROGRESS Reveal Future Show Plans Post-Hello Wembley

    PROGRESS Reveal Future Show Plans Post-Hello Wembley

    PROGRESS Wrestling have just released information about the next round of shows they have lined up, post-Wembley at the end of the month.

    The info, which was sent out to those who are subscribed to PROGRESS Wrestling’s mailing list, as well as being uploaded to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, details two future shows, in addition to what their 2019 Season Ticket includes:

    CHAPTER 77: PUMPKIN SPICE PROGRESS 
    Sunday 28th October – Camden 
    Doors 2pm, show 4-8pm 
    Mailing list presale opens 12pm, Monday 1st October 
    General sale opens 12pm, Wednesday 3rd October (if necessary)

    UNBOXING LIVE: A DUKLA PRAGUE AWAY KIT
    Sunday 30th December – Camden 
    Times TBC (will be confirmed by the time we go on sale) 
    Season Ticket holder presale opens 12pm, Monday 17th Sept 
    General sale opens 12pm, Tuesday 18th Sept

    2019 SEASON TICKETS 
    To include all Electric Ballroom shows PLUS Super Strong Style 16 weekend PLUS the usual merch discount PLUS presale access to select other events. 
    Current Season Ticket holder renewal window opens 12pm, Monday 8th October 
    General sale opens 12pm, Wednesday 10th October

    We’ll email more info about the Season Tickets – dates, prices, etc – in a day or two.

    What’s In The Box?

    Their previous Unboxing Live events have all thrived on the relative unpredictability of pro wrestling, coupled with the promotions’ booking tastes, leading to unexpected, surprising matchups – all of which are only revealed on the day!

    2017 saw an unexpected appearance for WWE’s ‘Gentleman’ Jack Gallagher, who is familiar with PROGRESS; 2016 had Marty Scurll literally unbox Zack Sabre Jr. before they competed for the PROGRESS Tag Team Championship.

    Dream matches, match of the year candidates, all this and more can happen at an Unboxing Live event. No doubt, the best way to experience it is live, with an atmosphere that only the Ballroom can provide.

    Hello Wembley

    Prior to this, however, is their major Wembley show, ‘Hello Wembley.’

    Tickets are still available to purchase via AXS. This will be the biggest English independent show in years. The event is also the final indie appearance of former UFC fighter, Matt Riddle, before he heads to NXT.

    Eddie Dennis vs Mark Andrews
    Jimmy Havoc vs Paul Robinson
    Thunderb*stard Tag Team Title Match
    Mark Haskins vs Matt Riddle
    Ilja Dragunov vs Pete Dunne
    PROGRESS Women’s Title Match – Jinny (c) vs Millie McKenzie
    PROGRESS World Championship Match – WALTER (c) vs Tyler Bate

    Wrestling Weekender

    PROGRESS has also announced a ‘warm-up’ show on Saturday 29th featuring the following live shows:

    NEVER MIND THE WRISTLOCKS
    Doors 12.30pm; show 1-2.30pm

    TUESDAY NIGHT JAW LIVE
    Doors 3pm; show 3.30-5pm

    JIM SMALLMAN – I’M SORRY, I LOVE YOU
    Doors 5.30pm; show 6-7.30pm

    Tickets are available now, and the event itself will take place out of The Phoenix, London.

  • Revolution Pro (Rev Pro) Committed To TV Tapings

    Revolution Pro (Rev Pro) Committed To TV Tapings

    Revolution Pro (Rev Pro) have only just finished their first of TV tapings, which took place in York Hall, Bethnal Green in London over the course of September 5th and 6th, but that hasn’t stopped them from engaging with curious fans who can’t wait for its release.

    Today, the official Rev Pro Twitter account opened up to a Q+A session with its followers. Questions quickly turned to the tapings, the promotion’s future intentions and plans, and how the TV deal factors into their product going forward.

    “We Believe We Have Made Some Mighty Fine TV”

    When asked whether the TV deal was a “permanent thing” as opposed to a potential pilot to shop around to different networks, the Rev Pro account responded:

    “[It being permanent is] the intention, yes, however will stress that nothing is permanent, like anything it has to work for all parties. We are going into this with a level head. However do believe we have made some mighty fine TV!”

    Despite the initial set of tapings having only just been completed, another fan was eager to know when and where another set would take place.

    When discussing the two-day tapings, another supporter wanted to know whether RPW would use their ‘bigger’ shows as a part of their TV run, or if the TV shows were their own dedicated products, intended to feed into the big shows like High Stakes, Global Wars, or Summer Sizzler.

    On The Air

    With all the excitement over the tapings still fresh, fans are excited to know when they can actually watch the final product when it debuts on Free Sports in the UK.

    Rev Pro responded:

    It’s reaffirming to see the commitment that those involved with Revolution Pro Wrestling are bringing to this television deal.

    More competition can only further reinvigorate an industry already enjoying an undeniable upswing, and with programs like World of Sport once again on terrestrial screens across the UK, Rev Pro may offer up an engaging, entertaining alternative for British fans.

  • Jerry Lawler: WWE Is Politically Correct To A Fault

    Jerry Lawler: WWE Is Politically Correct To A Fault

    WWE Hall Of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler thinks political correctness and the Women’s Evolution are the reasons he is no longer featured on WWE television. Lawler was present for the recent Starrcast convention during All In weekend and filmed a live episode of his Dinner with the King podcast for the fans who were in attendance.

    During the course of the show, the topic of puppies was brought up. Of course, we’re not talking about young canines here. Longtime fans know that Lawler would use the term to describe women’s cleavage during the Attitude Era. This was back when WWE programming was much more adult-themed than today and long before the Women’s Evolution

    “They’re So Politically Correct To A Fault.”

    During the Attitude Era, Lawler was one of the most prominent voices on WWE television. That was a very different time and the King believes that association is why he’s no longer calling Raw or SmackDown.

    “The thing with the puppies, I did not coin the phrase. I was not the first one to say the phrase on WWE TV; but, because, like you said, I am so associated with that word ‘puppies,’ most people think that way,” Lawler explained.

    “That is probably the reason I’m not on TV anymore and I mean that seriously because they [WWE] went so politically correct. It’s not necessarily PG because they’re not PG. They’re further south than PG. They’re PC,” he said. “They’re so politically correct to a fault and especially like they got so right now into – starting with the Revolution – now it’s all about empowering women and that’s a big political correct thing these days and everything, so WWE jumped right on that, so it’s about empowering women.”

    Lawler revealed that WWE producers actually instructed the commentators to never call the women wrestlers beautiful, good looking or sexy.

    “You must treat them exactly like you would a male athlete,” Lawler recalled being instructed. “You could say that they are powerful, they’re strong, they’re athletic,’ all this stuff; but, nothing that would be considered sexist at all.”

    Lawler Saying ‘Puppies’ At RAW’s 25th Anniversary

    He would later reflect on sneaking the word into the RAW 25th Anniversary show, and McMahon’s immediate reaction to it:

    “This is like early on the show and I said, ‘JR [Jim Ross], it’s so nice to be here tonight and we’re gonna go back in time or something and I might even say puppies tonight.’ Immediately I hear [Vince McMahon] in my earphone (grunts), ‘Let’s stay away from that tonight.’ That was the last time it was ever said on there.”

    Listen to this special edition of Dinner With The King, recorded live from Starrcast:

  • NXT Superstar Receives Standing Ovation After Match With Ciampa

    NXT Superstar Receives Standing Ovation After Match With Ciampa

    Current WWE NXT Superstar and former indie sensation, Dominik Dijakovic (formerly known as both Chris Dijak in the WWE and Donovan Dijak on the independents) received a standing ovation from the crowd at a recent NXT event in Detroit.

    The match saw Dijakovic go up against current NXT Champion, Ciampa.

    https://twitter.com/DijakovicWWE/status/1038972167197794304

    Although ultimately defeated, that didn’t stop Dominik from receiving the kind of response that may have caught the attention of top officials in WWE.

    Top Prospect

    Dijakovic made his debut for Ring of Honor during the July 27th 2014 event, Future of Honor 2. He would go on to have a break out year with the company after winning their 2015 Top Prospect Tournament, defeating Will Ferrara in the finals of the competition.

    Dominik has had a wealth of phenomenal performances on the independent circuit, prior to signing with the WWE.

    The superstar would start his WWE career at the WWE Performance Centre during August 2017 before making his NXT debut on September 23rd. His NXT TV debut, under the name Chris Dijak, came on May 20th and saw him coming up short in a match against Ricochet.

    Feast Your Eyes

    If you haven’t had a chance to watch much of Dijakovic’s matches prior to the WWE, they’re absolutely worth your time.

    In particular, his match against fellow recent NXT signee, Keith Lee, which took place on September 3rd during PWG’s Battle Of Los Angeles tournament. This match would go on to be awarded a 5 Star Rating, and for good reason.

  • Stephen Amell Reflects On Wrestling Christopher Daniels At All In

    Stephen Amell Reflects On Wrestling Christopher Daniels At All In

    Stephen Amell, star of CW superhero show Arrow, took to his Facebook account in order to post a video reflecting on his match with The Fallen Angel, Christopher Daniels, and his experience being a part of All In. Amell, who appears to be sporting cuts and bruises on his face, had this to say:

    “I really wanted to pass along some gratitude for what was a once in a lifetime, possibly a last of a lifetime experience for me, being at All In,” he said. “Being part of the largest independent wrestling show ever, was seriously, seriously, seriously incredible.”

    Fallen Angel

    The subject would then turn to his opponent on that night, “I want to thank Christopher Daniels for being just a wonderful opponent. I don’t want to break kayfabe, but when it came time to selecting who we wanted me to work with here for All In, Cody was very insistent that I be with a guy that has the know-how and the wherewithal that Christopher Daniel’s has. He was nothing short of a lifesaver in the ring,” Amell admits, before confessing, “[…] about three minutes in, I did what I anticipated would happen, and what everyone told me would happen, and what I knew would happen. I blew up! Couldn’t catch my breath. I had no idea where I was and being with a guy like CD [Christopher Daniels]… I couldn’t have done it without him.”

    The Arrow star closed by thanking those that brought him in for All In and supported him throughout the entire endeavour.

    “Most of all I would like to thank Cody, Brandi, and the entire Rhodes family. I’ve known Cody for the better half of three years and to watch him come out for his match later on in the night and the emotion on his face, and to see him realise a show like All In was really quite amazing. I’m so very proud of him.”

    Credit to WrestlingInc.com for the transcription.

    https://www.facebook.com/stephenamell/videos/a-ton-of-gratitude-and-some-arrow-talk/296847004448606/