SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Dana Warrior Out of WWE’s Creative Department

    Dana Warrior Out of WWE’s Creative Department

    Over the past month, WWE has undergone several changes behind the scenes.

    Vince McMahon is now retired, having made his announcement on Friday, July 22, a month after stepping down as WWE’s CEO and Chairman.

    Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan are now serving as the co-CEOs of WWE, while Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque has replaced Vince McMahon as WWE’s head of creative.

    Dana’s Departure

    A lot has changed behind the scenes as of late, including a departure from WWE’s creative team.

    According to a report from PW Insider, Dana Warrior is no longer working as part of the promotion’s creative department.

    While she is reported to have been backstage at last weekend’s Summerslam Premium Live Event, it’s noted that she was not working behind the scenes.

    Warrior, the widow of WWE Hall of Famer the Ultimate Warrior, is said to have left the role months ago.

    Prior to her departure from WWE’s creative team, she had been working remotely from home and had not attended any of the weekly TV tapings in quite some time.

    Warrior joined WWE’s creative department in 2019, five years after joining the promotion as a community ambassador following her husband’s death in April 2014.

    Still with the Company

    Dana Warrior is gone from WWE’s creative department, but she remains a part of the company.

    Warrior is continuing to work as part of WWE’s Community Relations team and plays a significant role in the promotion’s community outreach program.

    She is also involved with the Warrior Award ceremony yearly at the WWE Hall Of Fame during WrestleMania weekend.

    Dana Warrior Blasts “Smut & Filth” Dark Side of the Ring Ultimate Warrior Episode
  • It Looks Like Kevin Dunn is Staying in WWE

    It Looks Like Kevin Dunn is Staying in WWE

    Last Friday, Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE, after four decades as the unquestionable leader of the promotion.

    A month after stepping down as CEO and Chairman of WWE, McMahon’s retirement saw him relinquish his role as head of WWE creative, which has been filled by Triple H.

    In addition to being the head of WWE creative, the former WWE World Champion now serves as head of Talent Relations.

    Kevin Dunn Staying

    Much has changed behind the scenes in WWE, and one name fans expected to depart the company is Kevin Dunn.

    Dunn, who serves as WWE’s Executive Vice President of TV Production has worked with the company for years, but is reportedly not liked by Triple H among others backstage.

    It was recently reported that Dunn was expected to leave WWE within the next year, either of his own choice or by being forced out.

    It now appears that Dunn will be sticking with WWE after all, as in a recent talk with the media, Triple H name-dropped Dunn as one of the people who is doing important work in the company.

    “The Game” spoke about building on the company Vince McMahon created and seemingly confirmed that Dunn will be staying despite the reports.

    “To take it [WWE] beyond where it is now, the only way we’re gonna do that is with a team. That’s with Steph [McMahon.] That’s with Nick Khan. That’s with myself. That’s with Kevin Dunn.”

    Triple H on the team who will lead WWE into the future in the post-Vince McMahon era.

    Tonight’s Friday Night SmackDown will be the first show fully under Triple H’s control.

    While this week’s Raw came after McMahon’s retirement, the show had been written last week.

    5 Changes We Want to See with Triple H Running WWE Creative
  • Pay Per View Buys for Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor 2022

    Pay Per View Buys for Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor 2022

    Last week, Ring of Honor hosted their latest Pay Per View, Death Before Dishonor 2022.

    The show marked the second Pay Per View of the Tony Khan era, and the second since returning from hiatus earlier this year.

    The event opened up with Claudio Castagnoli capturing the ROH World Championship from Jonathan Gresham, marking the Swiss wrestler’s first World title.

    Dalton Castle and the Boys captured the ROH World six-man Tag-Team Titles, while Wheeler Yuta and Mercedes Martinez retained their respective ROH PURE and ROH Women’s World Titles.

    Samoa Joe retained the ROH World Television Champion while FTR retained the World Tag Titles against the Briscoes in the main event.

    The Event

    In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it’s reported that Death Before Dishonor earned 36,100 buys.

    Breaking this number down, the vast majority of fans watched online, with 27,000 digital buys and 9,100 from classic television Pay Per View providers.

    This 36,100 buys is nearly double what Ring of Honor’s previous Pay Per View ‘Supercard of Honor’ which did

    Over two-thirds of those who bought Death Before Dishonor (67.4%) had previously purchased the AEW/NJPW: Forbidden Door crossover event.

    68.2% of those who purchased Death Before Dishonor had purchased AEW Double or Nothing 2022.

    38.5% of fans who purchased the ROH Pay Per View purchased AEW Revolution 2022.

    The crowd for Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor 2022 was the fourth-largest in the 20-year history of the promotion.

    It was also the largest attendance for any ROH event that has happened outside of WrestleMania weekend.

    ROH Death Before Dishonor 2022 Results: FTR vs. The Briscoes, Claudio Castagnoli Wins Title, Samoa Joe
  • Rey Mysterio is Waiting to Feud with Dominik Mysterio

    Rey Mysterio is Waiting to Feud with Dominik Mysterio

    In mid-2020, Dominik Mysterio made his in-ring debut, competing against Seth Rollins at that year’s Summerslam.

    After impressing fans with his ability, Dominik has worked alongside his father Rey Mysterio, capturing the SmackDown Tag Team Championships last year.

    Waiting for the Feud

    Rey and Dominik Mysterio have teamed together for years, but WWE has teased splitting the pair multiple times.

    In 2020, WWE teased that Dominik would betray his father and join Seth Rollins’ stable but that didn’t take place.

    More recently, it was teased that Dominik would join The Judgment Day, but that hasn’t happened yet at this time.

    Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Rey addressed the possibility of feuding with his son and isn’t against the idea (Via 411 Mania.)

    “We actually talked about that during his first couple of weeks of training. I remember sitting down with him, and telling him … ‘Could you imagine if you started working and then we teamed up and eventually, you know, whether I turned on you or you turned on me?’”

    “I need to feel it at the moment, during that time.”

    Rey Mysterio on waiting for the right time to feud with his son Dominik Mysterio.

    “Yeah that would be cool… storyline-wise, it might be attractive, but I need to feel it at the moment, during that time. Right now, I feel like we just, we have a really tight bond, but it would be something special.”

    Rey and Dominik will face The Judgment Day in a No-Disqualification Match at the WWE Summerslam 2022 Premium Live Event tomorrow night.

    When Does Rey Mysterio Plan to Retire?
  • Seth Rollins Calls Current WWE Superstar the Greatest of All Time

    Seth Rollins Calls Current WWE Superstar the Greatest of All Time

    For decades, there has been a debate about who is the greatest wrestler of all time.

    Names like Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and John Cena could all lay claim to being the G.O.A.T, but there’s plenty more than just those five wrestlers.

    Everyone has their personal pick for the greatest wrestler ever, including the current WWE roster.

    The Greatest of All Time

    Seth Rollins has plenty of accolades to his name, including reigns as WWE and Universal Champion, the WWE Grand Slam as well as capturing the Money in the Bank Briefcase in 2014 and the Men’s Royal Rumble match in 2019.

    Rollins is known, on and off-screen for his high opinion of himself, but has chosen a different current Superstar as the greatest of all time.

    Speaking to Sport1, Rollins named his wife Becky Lynch as the greatest to ever step foot in WWE (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “Becky has developed into one of the biggest stars in the history of our industry with her personality, she is now the greatest wrestler of all time for me. And you can see that there is more than one way to be ‘larger than life.’ If you’re already physically fit, it’s definitely easier, but there’s another way. You don’t have to look like Hulk Hogan or John Cena, Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather are also ‘larger than life,’ although they feel physically 1.50. In the end, it’s not about the physical conditions, it’s about what you make of your conditions.”

    “With her personality, she is now the greatest wrestler of all time.”

    Seth Rollins on his wife Becky Lynch.

    Lynch will challenge Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair at Summerslam, while Rollins’ match with Riddle has been postponed.

    Some have suggested that Rollins will still have a presence on the show tomorrow night.

    Seth Rollins Doesn’t Expect Shield Reunion Until WWE HOF Induction
  • Watch: Roman Reigns Comments on Vince McMahon’s WWE Retirement

    Watch: Roman Reigns Comments on Vince McMahon’s WWE Retirement

    Last Friday, Vince McMahon announced his retirement, bringing an end to his four-decade career as part of WWE. 

    McMahon’s retirement comes one month after he stepped down as CEO and Chairman of WWE, due to the ongoing investigation against him. 

    The former Chairman is alleged to have paid over $12 million to multiple women over 16 years in Non-Disclosure Agreements. 

    The Tribal Chief reacts

    Many WWE Superstars personally benefited from pushes by Vince McMahon, but few stars were treated better than Roman Reigns. 

    Under McMahon, Reigns was pushed heavily as one of the company’s biggest stars, earning a mixed response from fans. 

    It wouldn’t be until Reigns turned heel in August 2020 that he would win over his critics, and has dominated WWE since then. 

    While signing autographs following a recent appearance on the Today Show, and was asked for his comments on McMahon’s retirement.

    “I just wish him nothing but luck and happiness in the future. It’s been great.”

    Roman Reign on Vince McMahon’s retirement.

    There’s no word on what McMahon plans on doing with all his newly-acquired free time now that he’s retired.

    McMahon’s Future

    Vince McMahon may be retired, but that doesn’t mean he’ll be enjoying life away from WWE. 

    After the two articles from the Wall Street Journal, which made the claims against McMahon, the authors have teased another article coming very soon, and have been speaking to former employees.

    McMahon is still under investigation by WWE’s board, who are under investigation themselves over claims they breached their duties to shareholders, by not mentioning the McMahon scandal prior to it going public

  • WWE Superstar has Culinary Dreams After Retirement

    WWE Superstar has Culinary Dreams After Retirement

    Over the past month, a lot has been said about retirements in wrestling.

    Last week, Vince McMahon retired, a month after stepping down as CEO and Chairman of WWE due to the ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct with female employees.

    This Sunday, Ric Flair will officially retire from wrestling, having his final ever match as part of Starrcast V.

    A Happy Plan

    WWE Superstar Happy Corbin is several decades younger than either McMahon or Flair, but he too has plans for his retirement.

    Speaking with Rick Ucchino, Corbin said that he has already thought about when he will be finishing his time in WWE.

    “I want to have another five or ten years here in WWE, but eventually, like all athletes at some point, our body doesn’t keep up with our minds anymore.”

    Happy Corbin on when he plans on retiring from wrestling.

    Corbin also spoke about what he’ll do after he hangs up his wrestling boots for good, and has some strong connections with the Food Network.

    I’ve made some good buddies in the Food Network world. Chef Aaron May is one of my good buddies. He’s always on Guy’s Grocery Games… I definitely want to get into that food world, whether it’s Food Network, or it’s my own YouTube stuff, or, you know, my buddy Aaron does a lot of stuff where he’s a guest, where he’s a celebrity sponsored cook… There’s a lot of really cool opportunities that food will bring when I’m done throwing people like Pat McAfee around in a ring.”

    “I definitely want to get into that food world, whether it’s Food Network, or it’s my own YouTube stuff.”

    Happy Corbin on plans for after he retires.

    Corbin will face Pat McAfee at this Saturday’s Summerslam Premium Live Event.

    JBL Says He Wants To Manage Happy Corbin
  • Photo: AEW Star Gets Highly Questionable New Tattoo

    Photo: AEW Star Gets Highly Questionable New Tattoo

    Brody King has been a mainstay of AEW for years now, and has a very unique look.

    Kings’s body is covered in tattoos, which cover his entire torso, as well as his arms and legs.

    Now, King has a new tattoo, related to his ongoing storyline in the company.

    Brody King’s brand-new ink

    As a member of the House of Black, Brody King is currently feuding with Darby Allin, and has routinely attacked the former AEW TNT Champion.

    Now, King has a new tattoo to reflect his current feud with Allin, with the new ink depicting a tombstone, with the carving ‘HERE LIES DARBY ALLIN.’

    AEW’s official Twitter account was eager to show off the new tattoo that has added the many on King’s body.

    While some fans thought the new tattoo was very cool in the comments, many questioned getting the ink for a feud which will ultimately end in the not so distant future.

    The feud so far

    The feud between the House of Black and Darby Allin has played out on AEW TV, but that’s not the only place where it has happened.

    During a meet-and-greet in Seattle, Washington earlier this month, King attacked Allin, putting the face-painted wrestler through a table.

    Despite the attack, Allin was able to carry on with the meet-and-great with his fans.

    Mere days later, Allin was attacked again, this time as part of a panel at San Diego Comic Con.

    King grabbed Allin in a choke hold from behind, while Malakai Black delivered a kick to the former TNT Champion.

    Watch: AEW Wrestlers Brawl at Seattle Autograph Signing
  • WWE SummerSlam Tryouts are Underway in Nashville

    WWE SummerSlam Tryouts are Underway in Nashville

    WWE Summerslam will take place this Saturday, in the first instance of the ‘Biggest Party of the Summer’ not taking place in August.

    The show will feature some of WWE’s biggest names, including Roman Reigns, Brock Lesnar, Becky Lynch, and others.

    These Superstars are established names of WWE, recognisable around the world, but WWE is looking for its next breakout stars.

    The Tryouts

    With one of WWE’s biggest events of the year taking place this Saturday, the promotion has began hosting tryouts for potential future Superstars.

    These tryouts will be the first of their kind in the post-Vince McMahon era, after the former WWE CEO and Chairman announced his retirement last Friday.

    SEScoops will be on hand this Friday for Day 3 of the WWE Summerslam tryouts. SEScoops correspondent Ella Jay will provide an exclusive look inside the latest WWE Tryout Camp on the SEScoops social media channels.

    Updates from the tryouts will be shared on our Twitter and Instagram pages.

    The tyrouts also mark the first tryouts that Triple H will be attending since being appointed head of WWE Talent Relations and head of WWE Creative.

    The ‘King of Kings’ has been joined by former WWE Champion Big E, who is continuing to recover from a broken neck suffered in March.

    Paul Heyman

    Paul Heyman is on hand and delivered this impassioned speech to the athletes:

    TMZ Sports reports that NFL Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu’s nephew, Talati Polamalu, is taking part in the tryouts.

    Talati Polamalu is currently a rising senior offensive lineman at Georgetown.

  • Top SummerSlam Match Pulled Due to Superstar “Injury”

    Top SummerSlam Match Pulled Due to Superstar “Injury”

    This Saturday will mark WWE’s annual Summerslam Premium Live Event, marking the first time the show has taken place outside the month of August.

    The show will feature Superstars from both Raw and SmackDown, including a main event Last Man Standing match between Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar.

    Match Pulled

    Summerslam 2022, the first Premium Live Event of the post-Vince McMahon era will be a huge event, but one match is off the card.

    On Twitter, WWE confirmed that Raw Superstar Riddle has been medically disqualified from competing at Summerslam.

    WWE explained that due to an attack by Seth Rollins, who Riddle was scheduled to face at Summerslam, the ‘Original Bro’ has suffered a brachial plexus injury, more commonly known to fans as a ‘stinger.’

    Rollins’ attack came during this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw.

    WWE has confirmed that the match has been postponed until a later date, but did not disclose a specific date when the two will face off.

    The match had been considered a potential show-stealer as both men are very strong workers who have been prominently pushed on WWE programming.

    Rollins had this to say about his SummerSlam match being postponed:

    What now?

    With Riddle not competing, WWE’s report did not specify what plans there are for Seth Rollins.

    It’s possible that Rollins could still appear at Summerslam, and could face a WWE Hall of Famer instead.

    With this year’s Summerslam being the first show of a new era, WWE will no-doubt want one of their most consistent Superstars on the card.

    Earlier this week it was reported that WWE had contacted Bill Goldberg about competing at Summerslam, after Brock Lesnar walked out during SmackDown.

    With Lesnar now back and his match with Reigns still on, WWE could still call on Goldberg for an impromptu match with Rollins.

  • Alundra Blayze Returns on NXT, New Women’s Tag Champs to be Crowned

    Alundra Blayze Returns on NXT, New Women’s Tag Champs to be Crowned

    Earlier this month, Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez captured the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships, but their reign was short-lived.

    The next week, Perez was attacked at the start of NXT 2.0, ahead of her NXT Women’s Championship match with Mandy Rose.

    It was later revealed that Jade had betrayed her tag-team partner, attempting to take her out of the running so she could face Rose instead.

    During last week’s show, Jade threw her NXT Women’s Tag Team Title in the trash, signifying the end of the team.

    Blayze’s Surprise Appearance

    One person who knows all about throwing titles in the trash is WWE Hall of Famer Alundra Blayze.

    During last night’s NXT 2.0, Perez was seen with her NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship and was furious at Jade’s actions given the work they’d done to win the titles.

    That’s when Blayze appeared and revealed that a Tag Team Elimination Match will take place next week and that the winners will be crowned the new NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions.

    Blayze didn’t confirm any teams for the match, but Kayden Carter and Katana Collins were featured in a backstage segment along with Ivy Nile and Tatum Paxley.

    The two teams brawled and it was revealed that Toxic Attraction and Yulisa Leon and Valentina Feroz will also be competing.

    Blayze’s history

    It was in 1995, after leaving the WWF for WCW while still the former’s Women’s Champion, that Blayze infamously threw the title in a trashcan.

    It has since been explained that Blayze wasn’t comfortable with the action, but was made to do so by Eric Bischoff.

    Due to the action, Blayze was blacklisted from WWE for years before returning to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015.

    Madusa (Alundra Blayze) Asks WWE For Retirement Match
  • Latest on Titus O’Neil Wrestling in WWE Again

    Latest on Titus O’Neil Wrestling in WWE Again

    Titus O’Neil has been with WWE for 13 years, after first signing for the promotion in mid-2009.

    In recent years however, O’Neil hasn’t wrestled, and has spent his time working as an ambassador for the promotion.

    O’Neil’s last match was on the November 9, 2020, edition of Monday Night Raw, where he lost to WWE United States Champion Bobby Lashley in a title match.

    Titus’ Update

    While it’s been nearly two years since Titus O’Neil’s last match, the former WWE Tag Team Champion hasn’t hung up his boots.

    In an interview with Wrestling Inc earlier this month, O’Neil seemed confident that he will wrestle again, saying his return match will happen “at the right time.

    Speaking with Fightful, O’Neil gave an update and said he does not have any timetable to return but is still planning on doing so.

    Speaking to a source within WWE, Fightful also noted that O’Neil is not considered to be on WWE’s ‘active roster’.

    Titus’ Career

    Beginning in Season 2 of the original NXT, O’Neil would return for the show’s fifth season, before moving to the main roster in 2012.

    Teaming with Darren Young as the Prime Time Players, the pair would win the WWE Tag Team Titles in 2015.

    In May 2020, Titus became the inaugural WWE 24/7 Champion, winning the title in a battle royal, but was pinned shortly after by Robert Roode.

    For his charity work, O’Neil was WWE’s Warrior Award recipient at the 2021 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony and would co-host WrestleMania 37 over the next two nights with Hulk Hogan.

    Titus O’Neil Makes History With Oscar Nominations Announcement
  • Latest on When Edge is Expected to Return

    Latest on When Edge is Expected to Return

    This week’s Raw saw the red brand return to Madison Square Garden, but this was hardly the only notable aspect of the show.

    The show also served as the go-home Raw before this Saturday’s Summerslam, and marked 20 years since the WWE debut of Rey Mysterio.

    Behind the scenes, this week’s Raw was also the first episode of the show in the post-Vince McMahon era.

    Edge Doesn’t Show

    In the week running up to this week’s Raw, it was reported that Edge would be returning to TV after being betrayed and attacked by The Judgment Day last month.

    According to Fightful Select, plans were put in place for Edge to return on Raw, and the company went as far as to have “travel set for him into town.”

    It was later reported that “at least one element” of those travel accommodations had been canceled, and Edge did not appear on the show.

    When will Edge Return to WWE TV?

    For weeks, WWE has been teasing the return of Edge in a series of cryptic vignettes.

    While none of the videos have stated they are meant for Edge, fans have deduced that they relate to the WWE Hall of Famer given the imagery and references to some of Edge’s biggest feuds.

    After not showing up on Raw, the belief now is that Edge will return at this Saturday’s Summerslam Premium Live Event instead.

    On Raw, a match between The Judgment Day and the Mysterios was announced, and the no-disqualification will allow Edge to interfere.

    Edge Wasn’t Happy With The Judgment Day Change (Report)
  • Tony Khan Weighs in on Unifying AEW/ROH World Championships

    Tony Khan Weighs in on Unifying AEW/ROH World Championships

    In 2019, Tony Khan shook the wrestling world by founding AEW among others, bringing competition to Vince McMahon’s WWE.

    In March this year, Khan expanded his wrestling hold by purchasing Ring of Honor, making a rare appearance on AEW Dynamite to announce his acquisition.

    Hybrid Championships

    With Khan controlling both companies, some have speculated of a possible crossover World title, which would be defended in both AEW and Ring of Honor.

    During the ROH Death Before Dishonor Media Call, Khan was asked about a ‘hybrid’ title and is opposed to the idea (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “The titles, I think, are going to be kept separate. I wouldn’t have a hybrid championship or any hybrid championships, I think, between AEW and Ring of Honor.”

    Tony Khan on the possibilty of unifying the AEW and Ring of Honor World Championships.

    At this time, the ROH World Title is held by Claudio Castagnoli, with the AEW World Championship held by CM Punk, with Jon Moxley as interim AEW World Champion.

    AEW-ROH Crossovers

    Tony Khan may be against the idea of a hybrid World Championship, but both shows have had plenty of crossovers already.

    At Ring of Honor Death Before Dishonor, AEW’s Claudio Castagnoli captured the ROH World Championship from Jonathan Gresham.

    Gresham, who recently requested his release from ROH, has also made a handful of AEW appearances, with his most recent being a win over Jordan Oasis on the July 16, 2022 Dark.

    Samoa Joe, who signed with AEW earlier this year is the reigning Ring of Honor World Television Champion, having won the title from Minoru Suzuki on the April 12, 2022 AEW Dynamite.

    Jonathan Gresham Has Asked for His ROH/AEW Release

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  • When Does Rey Mysterio Plan to Retire?

    When Does Rey Mysterio Plan to Retire?

    This week, Rey Mysterio celebrated his 20th anniversary in WWE and has been one of the promotion’s most consistently popular Superstars.

    Debuting in July 2002 after making a name for himself in WCW and ECW, Rey is a three-time WWE World Champion, having won gold in 2006, 2010 and 2011.

    Rey is also a Grand Slam winner, having held the United States, Intercontinental and Tag Team Titles in addition to World Championship gold.

    Rey’s Retirement Plans

    Speaking recently to Ariel Helwani of BT Sport, Rey discussed his career, and that it will soon be coming to an end.

    Rey admitted that he knows he cannot wrestle forever, and has a plan to call it a career.

    “For me, now that I’m getting closer to my fifties and I see my son wrestling, I tell myself that I wanna go three more years and I don’t wanna go past fifty. But then I remind myself, what if I feel good. Can you still go another year? As of right now, my date has always been to not go over fifty.”

    “I wanna go three more years and I don’t wanna go past fifty.”

    Rey Mysterio on plans to retire.

    What’s left for Rey Mysterio?

    Rey Mysterio is currently 47, and will turn 48 in four months time in November this year.

    He’s has accomplished plenty throughout his two decades of WWE, but there are some accolades still missing from his career.

    Rey has yet to win a Money in the Bank contract, nor has he captured the King of the Ring crown.

    Despite winning his first World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22 in 2006, Rey is also yet to headline WWE’s biggest event of the year.

    Rey Mysterio Marks 20 Years with WWE
  • Cody Rhodes is Teasing a WWE Royal Rumble Return

    Cody Rhodes is Teasing a WWE Royal Rumble Return

    Hours before the WWE Hell in a Cell event in June, Cody Rhodes suffered a torn pectoral muscle but still competed at the event.

    Defeating Seth Rollins in the main event of Hell in a Cell, Rhodes was attacked by Rollins the next night on Raw, writing him off TV.

    “The American Nightmare” hasn’t competed since then but has been teasing a return to the ring.

    Cody’s Return?

    WWE has said that Cody Rhodes will be out until March 2023, though many expect him to be back far sooner than that.

    Some have suggested that the date WWE has given is to build up a surprisingly early return at next year’s Royal Rumble.

    Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con, Rhodes addressed rumors of a return at January’s Premium Live Event (via WrestleTalk.)

    “My Royal Rumble stats are top 10, they’re phenomenal. So if I was to come back at that event, there is a chance I could actually get up in the top five and I’m all about that …. You never know! We’ll see.”

    Rhodes currently boasts the ninth-longest cumulative time spent in Royal Rumble matches.

    Cody’s Rumble History

    Cody’s Royal Rumble stats are impressive, even though he has never won the prestigious 30-man match.

    In his first Rumble in 2008, Cody, then a World Tag Team Champion lasted over 23 minutes, the eighth longest Superstar in the match.

    A year later, Cody lasted over 37 minutes and was the second-to-last Superstar eliminated, making it to the final three.

    Rhodes’ most impressive Royal Rumble performance was in 2012 when he lasted 41:59, the second-longest in the match behind The Miz.

    He also eliminated six Superstars in that match, more than anyone else in the 2012 Rumble.

    Cody Rhodes on WWE Rule: ‘They Can Fine Me Every Time’
  • Will Ospreay Claims he Received Cease & Desist from Kenny Omega

    Will Ospreay Claims he Received Cease & Desist from Kenny Omega

    Will Ospreay is one of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s most popular stars, in addition to being the reigning IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion.

    Ospreay has amassed a huge fanbase who are willing to pay for merchandise, but one shirt is no longer available to them.

    The Shirt

    On Twitter, PW Tees announced that a shirt of Ospreay’s has been pulled, following a cease and desist being filed.

    The front of the shirt depicts the British wrestler hitting the One-Winged Angel, while the back features the phrase ‘Better Than The Best Bout Machine,’ a nod to a nickname for Kenny Omega.

    In response, Omega said that the shirt raised various legal concerns in AEW, and apologized to Ospreay’s fans.

    Omega added that all orders already made for the shirt will be fulfilled.

    Ospreay Fires Back

    Will Ospreay is furious that his shirt has been taken down, and believes Omega is acting like a hypocrite.

    In a video response, Ospreay referenced Omega’s own run-ins with C&Ds, noting that WWE filed a cease and desist when he and others were using the ‘Too Sweet’ hand gesture (via Fightful.)

    “I have just exposed Kenny as an insecure little b*tch. It was fine when those guys were throwing up the Too Sweet and got hit with a cease & desist. They continued to poke the bear. When it is me doing it to you guys, you have a problem with it. It’s because Kenny is a miserable little pr*ck. He takes it out on me because I’m actually having fun with my life.”

    “It was fine when those guys were throwing up the Too Sweet… When it is me doing it to you guys, you have a problem with it.”

    Will Ospreay

    Ospreay also claimed that Omega is unhappy that AEW has now “turned into something you don’t like.”

    He noted that while AEW have portrayed themselves as the underdogs to WWE, they are now “the big boys, trying to look down on the little guys.”

  • Tony Khan Says a Lot of Jim Cornette’s AEW Criticisms are Fair

    Tony Khan Says a Lot of Jim Cornette’s AEW Criticisms are Fair

    Since being founded in 2019, All Elite Wrestling has become a smash-hit with fans, earning legions of loyal supporters around the globe.

    Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, fans have stuck to AEW’s programming, calling it an alternative to WWE’s standard of entertainment.

    Not everyone has been impressed over the years by what Tony Khan has been able to produce.

    Cornette is “Fair”

    One of the most vocal critics of All Elite Wrestling is Jim Cornette, who routinely bashes the product on his podcast.

    From the booking to the in-ring style, Cornette has never shied away from taking shots at the All-Elite promotion and like AEW, has his own share of loyal listeners.

    During the media scrum following Ring of Honor’s Death Before Dishonor Pay Per View, Tony Khan admitted that some of what Cornette says has some truth to it (via Sportskeeda.)

    “Just as also some of the other vocal critics of AEW, including Jim Cornette. One of the more vocal critics, but at times also a lot of what he says is very fair.”

    Tony Khan admits that some of Jim Cornette’s criticisms of AEW are very fair.

    Khan didn’t give a specific example of one of these “fair” assessments of AEW by Cornette.

    Cornette and Omega

    Arguably Cornette’s biggest issue with All Elite Wrestling is one of the company’s Executive Vice Presidents: Kenny Omega.

    Earlier this month, Omega fired back to the constant criticisms by Cornette, saying that he has realized that “hateful speech” helps to pay his bills.

    Firing back on his podcast, Cornette blamed Omega for making “wrestling something to be laughed at,” and that the former World Champion has “ruined a pastime, a hobby, an interest and entertainment that a lot of us had.”

    Jim Cornette Thinks AEW Had “Worst Segment” Ever On Wrestling TV
  • Will Vince McMahon’s WWE Retirement be Permanent?

    Will Vince McMahon’s WWE Retirement be Permanent?

    This week, Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE, after decades of running the company.

    McMahon’s retirement comes one month after he stepped down as CEO and Chairman of the Board, due to the allegations of misconduct against multiple female employees.

    McMahon is alleged to have paid over $12 million in Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) over 16 years.

    Will He Stay Retired?

    For years, it was said that the only way McMahon would ever relinquish control of WWE is when he passes away, so the choice to retire is rightly being seen as a huge deal.

    While McMahon has insisted that he is finished with WWE, there are some who are skeptical about how long this will last.

    Fightful Select reports that some in WWE don’t see McMahon’s retirement as long-lasting, given that he has little hobbies or social circle outside of pro wrestling. (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “I’m not banking on anything being permanent,” one source said. “Triple H was phased out, Stephanie was phased out, Bruce left the company for a decade, Johnny has been in and out, and none of them has the power Vince does. I’m not convinced that he can actually stay away, especially if he feels the heat has died down.”

    “I’m not banking on anything being permanent… I’m not convinced that he can actually stay away.”

    The ‘Heat’

    If Vince McMahon is waiting for the heat of these recent scandals to die down, then he may be waiting a very long time.

    Reporters from the Wall Street Journal have said that they are conducting interviews with former WWE Superstars, and a third article is expected to be published.

    Wrestling World Reacts to Vince McMahon’s Retirement
  • Bianca Belair Calls WWE Raw Superstar the Next “Heavyweight World Champion”

    Bianca Belair Calls WWE Raw Superstar the Next “Heavyweight World Champion”

    Bianca Belair knows all about winning championships in WWE.

    The winner of the 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble match, Belair would capture the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 37, in the main event of the show.

    A year later, Belair would capture the Raw Women’s Championship, dethroning Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 38 this past April.

    Belair’s Pick

    Belair is no stranger to championship gold, but also sees big things in the future of Montez Ford.

    Speaking with Peter Rosenberg, Ebro, and Laura Styles on Hot 97 radio, Belair praised her husband’s in-ring work and called him the next WWE World Champion (via Sportskeeda)

    “There’s a lot of talk right now about Montez Ford. He’s the next Heavyweight World Champion. He’s been in the gym. He’s been changing his physique… I’m excited for the future for him. He has so much potential. He’s really focused on this tag team thing right now with Angelo Dawkins. The Street Profits are doing amazing things. All I can say is it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when for my husband. I’m putting it out there.”

    “He’s the next Heavyweight World Champion… it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.”

    Bianca Belair calls Montez Ford a future WWE World Champion.

    The People’s Endorsement

    Bianca Belair isn’t the only WWE Superstar to see big things in Montez Ford’s future.

    Last week, The Rock praised Ford as the “whole package” in the latest positive message from the ‘Brahma Bull.’

    In February this year, The Rock agreed with Belair’s mindset that Ford will be a future WWE World Heavyweight Champion.

    WWE has also reportedly been high on Ford, admiring his in-ring work and charisma.

    Montez Ford Got Emotional After The Rock Labeled Him A Future World Champion
  • Concerns & Optimism in WWE After Vince McMahon’s Retirement Announcement

    Concerns & Optimism in WWE After Vince McMahon’s Retirement Announcement

    This week, Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE; an act that countless people thought they’d never see.

    McMahon’s announcement comes a month after he stepped down from the roles of WWE CEO and Chairman of the Board, over allegations of improper conduct with female employees. 

    McMahon has allegedly paid over $12 million in Non-Disclosure Agreements to female WWE employees over the past 16 years. 

    Concerns Over McMahon

    McMahon’s decision to step down from WWE is unquestionably the biggest shift in power the promotion has ever seen, and there are concerns for the ex-CEO’s future. 

    According to Wade Keller of PW Torch, many close to McMahon are worried about how he will spend his time now, as he has no hobbies or social circles outside of pro-wrestling.

    Despite this, McMahon is not expected to return to WWE in any capacity other than as the father of Stephanie McMahon. 

    In his retirement statement, McMahon did not address the allegations against him, which many believe is the reason for his retirement. 

    Keller reports that with McMahon retiring days before Raw returns to Madison Square Garden, the claims against him must be serious, as Vince has a lot of love for ‘The World’s Most Famous Arena.’

    It is said to be in WWE’s interest to keep McMahon happy as he is still a large shareholder and his opinion carried a lot of weight.

    Future Plans in WWE

     After stepping down as WWE CEO and Chair, McMahon remained in charge of WWE creative, though that has changed now.

    Keller notes that Bruce Prichard is expected to take over the role as head of creative for the time being. 

    Kevin Dunn, a long-time confidante of McMahon (who some consider little more than a Vince yes man) is expected to remain in his role as an Executive Director of WWE, though it is unlikely he will remain in the role for the long-term.

    Changes are expected, but they will be gradual as the company wishes to demonstrate stability to stakeholders including stockholders, partners, and sponsors.

    There are even talks from AEW wrestlers, who believe they will have a better chance in WWE or that at the very least, WWE will show more of an interest in them without Vince McMahon in charge.

    Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan will serve as co-CEOs, and while they are not close, they are not considered enemies.

    Women and WWE

    Many Superstars are said to be optimistic that this change of leadership will help them, but it is understood that any changes to the rosters will be gradual rather than immediate.

    Female Superstars are reportedly the most optimistic, as WWE Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon is said to be well-liked and is a supporter of women’s wrestling.

    Some even think that Naomi and Sasha Banks could return after walking out of the May 16 Raw due to creative differences with Vince McMahon’s plan for that night’s main event.

    It’s believed that the former Women’s Tag Team Champions’ main beef was with Vince and that his retirement could smooth things over.

    However, other management may still hold a grudge against both women, who have shown no signs of being brought back to TV.

    Wrestling World Reacts to Vince McMahon’s Retirement

  • Bella Twins on The Demise of Total Divas & How it Should Return

    Bella Twins on The Demise of Total Divas & How it Should Return

    In 2013, WWE and E! launched ‘Total Divas’ a reality show focused on the lives of WWE’s female Superstars.

    The two central figures of the show, Brie and Nikki Bella, would go on to have their own spin-off series, ‘Total Bellas’ focusing on their lives, injuries, and later the birth of their children.

    Total Divas ran from July 2013 to December 2019 while Total Bellas lasted from October 2016 to January 2021.

    A Possible Return?

    Like many reality shows, Total Divas was criticized for what viewers believed were scripted scenes and not reflective of the day-to-day work of a WWE Superstar.

    Speaking to TV Insider, Nikki Bella told SEScoops correspondent Scott Fishman that the show did have a positive influence on WWE audiences.

    “It doesn’t get enough credit. I believe it was also a reason why we had more girls showing up. Here were these reality fans that believed in us and our stories inside and outside the ring. They wanted to come to watch it live and grew into fans. It changed the game so much for us. It made people believe in women’s wrestling.”

    “It was also a reason why we had more girls showing up [to WWE events.]”

    Nikki Bella on the impact of Total Divas.

    Nikki added that while she believes the show should come back, it should only do so under the right circumstances.

    “it has to be the right people behind it. We started to go in a direction where it became more to do with bad girls’ club drama. It’s why we walked away.”

    Nikki Bella on what a Total Divas return should be.

    In that same interview, Brie Bella said that a new cast of Superstars would be perfect for a revived show.

    “It would be awesome to see A bECKY lYNCH ON there. Does she cry after a match? Does she kiss her daughter before she comes out? I

    Brie Bella on a possible new cast for Total Divas.

    Brie also suggested that the show could “make stars” if it was brought back.

    WWE has given no indication that they plan on reviving either Total Divas or Total Bellas.

    The Bella Twins’ Kids Can’t Tell Them Apart
  • Mick Foley Reveals WrestleMania Request for After he Dies

    Mick Foley Reveals WrestleMania Request for After he Dies

    Mick Foley is a legend in the world of professional wrestling after decades of competing in various promotions.

    A three-time former World Champion, Foley also held gold in WCW and ECW and is also a best-selling author.

    After Life

    Foley has achieved plenty throughout his wrestling career, and has plans for after his time on earth is over.

    Speaking on his own podcast ‘Foley is Pod,’ the former World Champion spoke about his post-life plans and what he hopes WWE will allow.

    “I believe I’m going to be cremated when the time comes. We’ll see if Vince would let [my family] drop the ashes in the ring before the main event of WrestleMania. Wouldn’t that be great?”

    Mick Foley on what he plans for his remains after he dies.

    WWE has to date, not had an ashes-scattering during a WrestleMania Premium Live Event.

    Foley and WrestleMania

    After joining the WWF in 1996, Foley would make his WrestleMania debut the following year, teaming with Vader to face the British Bulldog and Owen Hart.

    In 1998, Foley, competing as Cactus Jack would team with Chainsaw Charlie (his mentor Terry Funk) to become WWF Tag Team Champions.

    At WrestleMania 15, Foley would compete against the Big Show, with the winner becoming the guest referee in the main event between WWF Champion The Rock and Steve Austin.

    For WrestleMania 2000, Foley would have his only main event, but failed to dethrone WWF Champion Triple H in the fatal four-way match also involving Rock and Big Show.

    Mick would wait four years before competing at WrestleMania 20, where he and The Rock lost to Evolution, and his last Mania match would be a loss to Edge at WrestleMania 22 in 2006.

    Mick Foley Details His First WWE Contract
  • Ex-Ref on Working for WWE: “I’ve Never Earned as Little Money!”

    Ex-Ref on Working for WWE: “I’ve Never Earned as Little Money!”

    The WWE is the unquestionable biggest wrestling promotion on the planet and has hosted some of the biggest, best-paid wrestlers of all time.

    Hulk Hogan, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, John Cena, and Roman Reigns have all made their fortunes working for a man with a $2.3 billion net worth: Vince McMahon.

    In recent years, the company has posted record profits, thanks in part to its lucrative broadcasting rights deals with FOX and the USA Network.

    Getting Underpaid

    WWE may have a ton of money, but not everyone associated with the promotion is well-off.

    In an interview with Cultaholic’s Desert Island Graps, former NXT UK referee Artemis discussed her career with WWE and her decision to leave (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “The pay, the pay is a big issue. I’ve never earned as little money as I did in WWE. I never thought I’d say that because I thought that would be my full-time job, that was going to be it. It was great. I took a massive pay cut from being a teacher to being a referee which is weird considering you’re on TV every week in several countries.”

    “I’ve never earned as little money as I did in WWE.”

    Artemis.

    Artemis also spoke about being offered a two-year new deal when her contract was coming to an end, but was told the pay would be the same.

    “I said, ‘I can’t do it.’ I’ve got a mortgage and I’ve got to take care of my mom. I can’t stay on that little money. And it’s a shame, but I need to take care of my family. So they extended my contract for two months, hoping to be able to negotiate, and then they came back to me. I was supposed to do one last camp back in April. They called me just a few days before to say, ‘Okay, so you don’t want to accept that contract? We have nothing better for you, so there’s no need for you to come back next week.’”

    Artemis finished with WWE in April 2022 and has announced that she will be taking bookings around the world.

    Ilja Dragunov Forced to Vacate WWE NXT UK Championship
  • The Rock Says His Mom Has ‘SmackDown Room’ Dedicated To Him

    The Rock Says His Mom Has ‘SmackDown Room’ Dedicated To Him

    In the world of pro-wrestling, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is known as ‘The People’s Champion’ for a reason, having millions upon millions of fans around the world.

    The Rock’s fandom grew when he became a leading man in Hollywood, with several blockbuster films featuring the former WWE World Champion.

    The Rock has plenty of fans, but there is one person in particular who stands out.

    The Rock’s Number One Fan

    As seen in NBC Universal’s ‘Young Rock’ Dwayne Johnson takes his family very seriously.

    Appearing this week on Jimmy Kimmel Live to promote his new movie, ‘DC League of Super Pets,’ The Rock spoke about his mother Ata Johnson and the special room she has just for him (via Essentially Sports.)

    “She has a SmackDown room… every guest wants to go to the SmackDown room but she insists I go with her. So there’s nothing more horrifying than just standing there. And she’s like ‘This is Dewey when you know and this movie’. It’s every poster, every award, any little and any kind of proclamation. Oh but that’s what our parents do.”

    Ata and Dewey

    Ata Johnson clearly cares a lot about her son and the feeling is mutual.

    Last December the former WWE World Champion made headlines for gifting his mother a new car for the holidays.

    Last month, The Rock continued his gift-giving ways, buying his mother and WWE Superstar Tamina Snuka a new house each.

    The Rock Praises WWE Star As ‘The Whole Package’