SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • AEW Rampage Spoilers: Airing July 15, 2022

    AEW Rampage Spoilers: Airing July 15, 2022

    This week’s AEW Dynamite was the show’s annual Fyter Fest which aired live from the Enmarket Arena in Savannah, Georgia.

    After that show, AEW taped their weekly Rampage, which will air this Friday night.

    AEW Rampage Spoilers (7/15/2022)

    Here are spoilers for the July 15, episode of AEW Rampage.

    • Malakai Black and Brody King defeated Alex Reynolds & John Silver. After the match, Darby Allin dove off one of the tunnels and attacked King. Black was confronted by Sting while King and Allin brawled.
    • ROH Champion Jonathan Gresham defeated Lee Moriarty via submission in a match that saw Bobby Cruise as the ring announcer. Post-match, Gresham claimed to be the best wrestler in the world which brought out Claudio Castagnoli.
    • Athena and Kris Statlander defeated Charlotte & Robyn Renegade. Leila Grey, AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill and Kiera Hogan got involved after the match and laid out Athena and Statlander.
    • The Gunn Club and the Acclaimed brawled. After running off the Club, Max Caster rapped about them daring the Club to come back and fight.
    • The Lucha Bros defeated Private Party in the main event of the Rampage taping.
  • Goldberg on Bret Hart Injury: “He Will Never Forgive Me”

    Goldberg on Bret Hart Injury: “He Will Never Forgive Me”

    At WCW Starrcade 1999, Bret Hart and Goldberg faced off in a match that would live on in infamy in the careers of both men.

    During one part of the match, Hart bounces off the ropes and receives a stiff kick to the head by Goldberg, resulting in a severe concussion.

    After decades in the industry, Hart would never fully recover, and his legendary career would end on a whimper.

    Forgiveness

    For years, Bret has blamed Goldberg for ending his in-ring career, and that attitude is unlikely to change.

    Goldberg recently joined The Michael Kay Show with Peter Rosenberg to promote his upcoming ‘Biography: WWE Legends‘ and was sad to think the Canadian legend will always hold a grudge (via Sportskeeda.)

    “When an accident happens and you tell your side of the story and nobody believes it, especially the person negatively affected by it, yeah it sucks. I will take it to my grave because I am sure that he will never forgive me. What else can I say? I said I was sorry and that it was unintentional, it was the furthest thing from my mind, I dont know, a million times?”

    “I am sure that he will never forgive me.”

    Bill Goldberg on Bret Hart.

    Bret has shown no signs of forgiving Goldberg over what happened, and made that clear during an appearance on the Broken Skull Sessions.

    On the show, Hart told ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin that Goldberg hurt everyone he worked with, and wrestling him was like fighting a gorilla.

  • Johnny Gargano Calls Two AEW Tag Teams Once in a Generation

    Johnny Gargano Calls Two AEW Tag Teams Once in a Generation

    All Elite Wrestling is home to some of the most popular tag teams in current-day wrestling, with plenty of duos, trios, and stables in the company.

    In October 2019, the promotion introduced the AEW World Tag Team Championships, allowing teams to compete with a specific goal in mind.

    There are a lot of stand-out tag teams in AEW, but according to one former NXT Champion, two of the teams on the roster stand out above the rest.

    One of a Kind

    From 2015-2017, Johnny Gargano was part of DIY, a popular tag team in NXT alongside Tommaso Ciampa.

    The pair had a run as NXT Tag Team Champions, but Gargano’s favorite teams right now are in AEW.

    While on Good Karma Wrestling, Gargano has a lot of praise for FTR and the Young Bucks.

    “FTR, Revival, whatever you want to call them, they’ve been one of the best tag teams for a very, very, very, very, very long time, and me and Tommaso were lucky enough to have that series with them where we did Takeover: Brooklyn and Takeover: Toronto and have those tag team matches with those two guys because, for my money, they are the best tag team in the world currently. And I always, I said for a very, very, long time and I still do believe this, FTR and Young Bucks are just once in a generation tag teams.”

    Both FTR and the Bucks have had reigns as AEW World Tag Team Champions, with the latter currently in their second reign.

    Johnny Gargano Not Ruling Out WWE Return
  • Another Huge Sign that Sasha Banks has Left WWE

    Another Huge Sign that Sasha Banks has Left WWE

    This Saturday will mark two months to the day that Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of the May 16 edition of Monday Night Raw.

    Since walking out over a creative difference with the planned main event, WWE has done all they can to distance themselves from the now-former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.

    Neither Banks nor Naomi have appeared on WWE programming in weeks and it once again appears that Banks is finished for good.

    The Signing

    In recent weeks, there have been reports that Sasha Banks has been released by WWE, though neither side has publicly confirmed the news.

    Now, there’s been a major sign that Banks is gone from WWE, as she is set for a meet and greet that is not affiliated with the company.

    On Twitter, the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) announced that Banks will be appearing at their upcoming convention, which will run from August 5 to August 7.

    The tweet referred to “The Boss” by her real name Mercedes Varnado, and referenced her role as Koska Reeves in Disney+ hit ‘The Mandalorian.’

    Interestingly, C2E2 refers to other wrestlers appearing, as “WWE’s Mick Foley, Trish Stratus, and Lita” but references Banks by her real name.

    https://twitter.com/c2e2/status/1547265837135970304

    What about Naomi?

    While Banks is seemingly already finished with WWE, her tag team partner’s situation is less clear.

    Naomi was also suspended due to the now-infamous Raw walkout, but it doesn’t appear that she has been released just yet.

    Responding to a tweet by ex-WWE Superstar Lince Dorado, who asked when they will be able to work together again, Naomi says she hopes to be able to work outside WWE as soon as possible.

    Some have speculated that Naomi’s family, as she is married to The Bloodline’s Jimmy Uso has saved her a harsher punishment by WWE.

    WWE Superstars are Making Sure not to Mention Sasha Banks
  • Is Chris Jericho Teasing a Return to WWE?

    Is Chris Jericho Teasing a Return to WWE?

    In 2019, Chris Jericho was one of the very first names to join All Elite Wrestling, a decision that has certainly paid off for the veteran wrestler.

    That same year, Jericho became the very first AEW World Champion and has been a mainstay of the company’s programming over the past three years.

    Jericho is one of the biggest names to ever compete for Tony Khan but it could be time he returns back to where he once worked.

    Jericho’s Return?

    Jericho may be a huge name in AEW, but it may be time for him to return to WWE.

    On Twitter, an article was shared dictating five reasons why the former World Champion will one day come back to WWE, now run by Stephanie McMahon.

    Jericho didn’t say anything about the content but did retweet the article, seemingly teasing a comeback.

    Jericho in WWE

    Jericho and WWE first began speaking in 1995, years before Y2J would actually join the promotion.

    That year, there was talk about bringing Jericho in, but he turned down the idea, fearing he would be cast as ‘The Goon,’ a heel ice-hockey player that Jericho felt was a reference to his father Ted Irvine.

    Joining in 1999, Jericho would go on to become a nine-time Intercontinental Champion, a record that stands to this day.

    He is also the first Undisputed Champion, having defeated The Rock and ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin at Vengeance 2001 to unify the WWF and World Championships.

    Chris Jericho Details ‘Terrible’ Experience Working With Attitude Era Star
  • New QR Code Shared on Latest WWE NXT 2.0

    New QR Code Shared on Latest WWE NXT 2.0

    During last week’s Great American Bash special of WWE NXT 2.0, a QR code appeared on the screen and was scanned by fans.

    The code sent fans to a web page, containing the sequence 8:10:11, leaving fans to try and figure out what these numbers mean.

    Now, a new code has been shared by WWE, giving fans more clues as to what the paint-splattered brand is working towards.

    The New Code

    On last night’s episode of WWE NXT 2.0, a new QR code was shared on-screen immediately after Solo Sikoa dumped Mr. Robert Stone into a huge trash can.

    Fans were quick to scan the code which brought them to a grid of words similar to the popular game ‘Wordle.’

    The guesses made are Quinn, Becky, Crews, Trick, Brock, and Toxic, which all relate to current WWE programming.

    Fans immediately connected the guesses to Xyon Quinn, Becky Lynch, Apollo Crews, Trick Williams, Brock Lesnar and Toxic Attraction, the stable led by NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose.

    Deciphering the Code

    Per the rules of Wordle, we know that the answer contains the letter O, and that the last letter in the five-letter sequence is C.

    If the Wordle connection is completely accurate, it means that whatever the answer is, does not contain the letters Q, U, I, N, B, E, K, Y, R, W, S, T, I, and X.

    That leaves the letters A, C, D, F, G, H, J, L, M, O, P, V and Z.

    WWE has given no indication as to when the answer to this latest code will be revealed in full.

    Fans Speculate on Mysterious QR Code During WWE NXT Great American Bash
  • Virgil Can Barely Use His Arms Due to Ongoing Health Battle

    Virgil Can Barely Use His Arms Due to Ongoing Health Battle

    Fans who watched WWF programming and later WCW, will know of Virgil, the manservant of Ted DiBiase who eventually turned on the Million Dollar Man.

    Since retiring from wrestling though, Virgil has had some rough patches, including infamous images of him sitting alone without anyone around at fan meet and greets.

    Now, a new update has come out about Virgil and his condition is not good.

    Virgil’s Sad Update

    Virgil has been going through some serious medical problems as of late, including having suffered multiple strokes, in addition to battling both dementia and colon cancer.

    An article posted by Slam Wrestling has given a sad update on Virgil’s condition, as it’s said that he can barely move his arms anymore.

    The article adds that Virgil’s friends, including Tito Santana, Rick Martel, and his former on-screen boss Ted DiBiase Sr., have not checked in on him since his health began deteriorating.

    Other Revelations

    The Slam Wrestling article didn’t just give an update on Virgil’s current condition, but also cleared up some of the rumors about the former Million Dollar Champion.

    According to Virgil’s close friend Mark Charles III, the story of the ex-wrestler once eating 150 breadsticks at an Olive Garden restaurant is not true at all.

    Virgil’s friend and roommate Shawn Raneri added that despite speaking multiple times about Olive Garden in the past, that Virgil prefers Five Guys.

    Another rumor that was debunked was that Virgil did not wrestle at Monroeville High School and he did not compile a 32-0 record at 186 pounds.

    Slam Wrestling also debunked the rumor that Virgil had once taught Math as an educator.

    Virgil Diagnosed With Early Stage Of Dementia
  • WWE Superstar Praises AEW’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournaments

    WWE Superstar Praises AEW’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournaments

    Earlier this year, AEW celebrated the life and legacy of Owen Hart with two tournaments named after the Rocket.

    Those tournaments concluded at Double or Nothing, with Adam Cole defeating Samoa Joe to win the Men’s Tournament, while Dr. Britt Baker bested Ruby Soho to win the women’s.

    Both successful wrestlers were presented with special titles designed around the legendary wrestler who fell to his death at WWF Over the Edge 1999.

    The tournaments earned widespread acclaim from fans, as well as support from one current WWE Superstar.

    Natalya Weighs In

    Speaking to Ariel Helwani of BT Sport, Natalya was asked about her thoughts on the tournament.

    It makes sense to ask Natalya, who is part of the Hart family, and her status as a WWE Superstar did not stop her from praising AEW’s work (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “They did a really nice job honoring Owen … the way Martha wanted to honor him.”

    Natalya

    Speaking about Owen’s widow Dr. Martha Hart, who appeared at Double or Nothing, Natalya commended her resolve.

    Martha has refused to work with WWE since her husband’s death in May 1999 which is why Owen has not gone into the Hall of Fame.

    “Nobody can understand or imagine what she went through. What would it be like if I got that phone call about TJ [TJ Wilson?]…Any way that she feels, I think she’s totally justified.  [The tournament] was her call. And it always should be her call.”

    “Any way that she feels, I think she’s totally justified.”

    Natalya on Martha Hart’s opposition to WWE.

    Natalya added that she has a tremendous amount of respect for her aunt despite her position with WWE.

  • Heartbreaking Photo of WCW Alum Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael Surfaces Online

    Heartbreaking Photo of WCW Alum Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael Surfaces Online

    For fans of WCW, Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael was one of the stars to watch during the mid to late 1990s.

    Unfortunately, these days, Mongo is doing very poorly and is battling a case of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS.)

    Now, a sad photo has surfaced online featuring the former wrestler.

    McMichael Resurfaces

    On Twitter, a photo surfaced of McMichael which was heartbreaking to see.

    As seen in the image below, Mongo appears to be confined to his bed, which follows on from reports by his sister last year, that her brother can no longer use his arms or his legs.

    Despite his condition, McMichael seemed to be in good spirits as seen in the image below.

    Ric Flair recently revealed on his podcast that accommodations will be made for McMichael to travel to Nashville so he can be in attendance for Flair’s last match later this month.

    McMichael: From the Gridiron to the Ring

    Long before McMichael was in WCW, he was making a name for himself in football, playing for the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers.

    It was with the Bears in 1986 that Mongo became a Superbowl champion, as they defeated his former team the Patriots.

    After an appearance at WWF WrestleMania 11 to aid fellow football star Lawrence Taylor, McMichael was signed to a lucrative deal with WCW.

    Mongo’s time with the company would see him feud with fellow football alum Bill Goldberg, join the Four Horsemen, and capture the WCW United States Heavyweight title in August 1997 at Clash of the Champions XXXV.

  • WWE Superstar is Ready to Leave and Work Elsewhere “ASAP”

    WWE Superstar is Ready to Leave and Work Elsewhere “ASAP”

    For many wrestlers, the ultimate goal of their careers is to one day work for WWE.

    While there are other wrestling promotions around, none are as big as the McMahon-founded promotion, which continues to air across the globe.

    Only a select handful of wrestlers will ever be called WWE Superstars, but one wrestler is wanting out now.

    Naomi Wants Out

    It’s been close to two months since Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of the May 16, Raw, over a creative difference with the planned main event.

    Reports have come out that Banks has parted ways with WWE, though haven’t been confirmed by either side, but now Naomi wants out.

    Responding to former WWE Superstar Lince Dorado, who asked the former SmackDown Women’s Champion when they’ll work together on “some lucha things” Naomi said she hopes to do so “Asap.”

    WWE and Naomi

    Naomi debuted on WWE TV in 2010, boasting two reigns as SmackDown Women’s Champion and one as WWE Women’s Tag Champion.

    After coming up short in season 3 of the original NXT reality show format, Naomi debuted as part of the Funkadactyls before branching out as a singles competitor.

    She is also married to Jimmy Uso and had previously discussed in the past wanting to join her husband and their family on-screen as part of the Bloodline.

    That idea seems highly unlikely now given her suspension and her desire to get out of the company and work with others as soon as possible.

    Naomi Says She is Tired of Being Taken Advantage Of
  • Who Came up with The Undertaker’s WrestleMania Streak?

    Who Came up with The Undertaker’s WrestleMania Streak?

    The Undertaker’s mythical WrestleMania streak began with a quick win over the late ‘Superfly’ Jimmy Snuka at WrestleMania 7

    The 260-second win over the controversial WWE Hall of Famer was, at the time, just another win for the undefeated rookie. Over the next twenty years, the Undertaker would rack up win after win at WWE’s biggest event of the year.

    The phenomenon would grow to be known simply as, ‘The Streak.’

    The Streak

    The Undertaker had always won at WrestleMania, but it wasn’t until much later in his career that the concept of a winning streak gained traction.

    In a recent interview with Peter Rosenberg on A&E Biography: WWE Legends, “The Phenom” revealed that the idea of the streak only came around after Michael Hayes checked the records.

    “It was WrestleMania [18] against Flair actually in Toronto that I think it was Michael Hayes that figured it out that I had not, I hadn’t lost. And that’s the first time that I acknowledged it is at the end of that route. I’m on the apron and I throw up all the fingers. And from that point on, it really kind of got the gas thrown on it and every year it just continued to get bigger and bigger and bigger.”

    “It was Michael Hayes that figured it out that I had not, I hadn’t lost. And that’s the first time that I acknowledged it.”

    The Undertaker on the origins of ‘The Streak.’

    Breaking the Streak

    The Undertaker’s winning streak would reach 21-0, with “The Phenom” dispatching of legends including Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Kane, and Edge.

    In 2014, Brock Lesnar seemed the next to fall victim, but in a true shock to fans, Lesnar broke the Streak.

    The match is not fondly remembered, as during the bout, The Undertaker suffered a concussion and was barely able to compete.

    Now retired, The Undertaker’s record at WrestleMania remains an impressive 25-2.

    The Undertaker Explains “Never Say Never” Line During WWE Hall Of Fame Speech
  • A Huge Name was Backstage at a Recent WWE Live Event

    A Huge Name was Backstage at a Recent WWE Live Event

    Last night, WWE hosted their Sunday Stunner event at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada, with eight matches (three of them title matches) on the card.

    The show saw Gunther retain his Intercontinental Championship against Ricochet while new SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan held off both Ronda Rousey and Natalya to keep the gold.

    The Usos defeated The New Day to retain the WWE Undisputed Tag team Championships while in the main event it was Drew McIntyre who bested Sheamus.

    The Rattlesnake Slithers into Town

    While the Reno, Nevada event had a stacked card, perhaps the biggest name at the show didn’t appear in the ring.

    On Twitter, Natalya revealed that ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin was backstage at the event, calling it the coolest part of the event.

    “The coolest part of tonight in Reno was having @steveaustinBSR at our show watching every match backstage… Steve is the best. Truly. ??”

    Austin replied to Natalya’s comments, calling the Reno untelevised “a helluva show.”

    “Reno was a damn good crowd. In it from start to finish. Y’all gave em a helluva show and that’s the bottom line.”

    Austin in 2022

    This year has been a huge year for Stone Cold Steve Austin, who competed at WrestleMania 38.

    In his first match in 19 years, the Rattlesnake defeated Kevin Owens in the main event of Night One, a moment fans for years thought would never happen.

    Despite his near two-decades spent not as a wrestler, Austin looked very impressive and held his own against the former Universal Champion.

    Austin has said that he has no plans to wrestle ever again after being able to end his in-ring career in his native Texas.

    Pat McAfee Didn’t Know Stone Cold Stunner Was Going to Happen
  • Watch: AEW Wrestlers Brawl at Seattle Autograph Signing

    Watch: AEW Wrestlers Brawl at Seattle Autograph Signing

    For wrestlers, meeting and greeting fans around the world is just one perk of the job.

    It can be a deeply rewarding experience for wrestlers to meet the people who admire them and give fans an experience they’ll remember.

    Darby Allin has a ton of fans, some of whom came to meet him this weekend, but one person arrived looking to cause trouble.

    The Attack

    Allin appeared at the Southcenter Mall in Seattle for what he had planned on being a standard meet and greet session.

    Before Allin began with what would be a four-hour autograph signing, he was ambushed by Brody King, who put him in a sleeper hold.

    Not finished with the former AEW TNT Champion, King proceeded to powerbomb the young wrestler through a table before leaving the area.

    After a brief window of time, Allin eventually recovered and completed the event as planned much to the surprise and delight of the fans who had paid to see him.

    King Vs. Allin

    This attack follows on from the recent Royal Rampage, where Allin and King were the last two in a match to determine the number one contender for the Interim AEW World Championship.

    King put Allin to sleep and threw him over the rope to win the match but failed to dethrone Jon Moxley.

    After Malakai Black came out to check on King, Sting did the same with Allin, telling King he belonged in AEW and asking for a handshake, an offer that King would refuse.

  • Watch Roman Reigns’ Return at Saturday’s WWE Live Event

    Watch Roman Reigns’ Return at Saturday’s WWE Live Event

    Roman Reigns is WWE’s reigning Undisputed Universal Championship, and has decimated the competition over the past two years.

    Reigns’ list of victims is a who’s who of WWE, with names including John Cena, Bray Wyatt, and Goldberg all falling to the “Tribal Chief.”

    As the unquestionable top star of WWE, matches featuring Reigns have become rarer and rarer but he returned to the ring this weekend.

    Reigns Back in the Ring

    Earlier this year, Roman Reigns signed a lucrative new deal with WWE, one that has seen him compete in far fewer matches.

    Reigns’ most recent televised match was nearly a month ago, where he defeated Riddle on the June 17, 2022 SmackDown to retain the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

    The Champ broke his hiatus from the ring last night, competing at the July 9, WWE Live Event in Sacramento, California. Unsurprisingly, Reigns headlined the event, successfully defending his title against Drew McIntyre.

    Roman Reigns is the top heel in all of pro wrestling, but he once again broke character and delivered a heartfelt message to the fans in attendance after his match.

    Below, you can see footage of Reigns addressing the audience at WWE Sacrameno:

    What Else Happened?

    Having the “Head of the Table” was a rarity, but it wasn’t all that happened on the show.

    The show opened with Intercontinental Champion Gunther retaining his title against Ricochet, followed by a Triple Threat in which Raquel Rodriguez defeated Shayna Baszler and Lacey Evans.

    The Viking Raiders defeated Jinder Mahal and Shanky while Happy Corbin got a win over Drew Gulak.

    SmackDown Women’s Champion Liv Morgan retained against Natalya and Ronda Rousey and Madcap Moss defeated Humberto.

    In the penultimate match, there was a triple threat for the Undisptued Tag Team Titles that saw the current champions The Usos take on The New Day and The Brawling Brutes, with The Usos retaining.

  • Rhea Ripley Reveals She’s Now Wearing a Heart Monitor

    Rhea Ripley Reveals She’s Now Wearing a Heart Monitor

    WWE has been plagued with a series of injuries in recent weeks which has kept a lot of top stars out of action.

    Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton are just two names who are hurt, and it’s not just the men’s division missing out.

    Rhea Ripley is also on the shelf, having suffered a brain injury, but the former Raw Women’s Champion may be dealing with another medical issue.

    The Heart Monitor

    On Instagram, Ripley showed off the new heart monitor she is now wearing but did not specify the reason.

    Typically, heart monitors are used to detect and record any irregularities in the heart.

    Seeing the funny side of things, Ripley joked that she’s now Iron Man, the MARVEL Comics character who uses a device on his chest to keep himself alive.

    Bad Timing for Rhea Ripley

    Ripley’s injury could arguably not come at a worse time for her character.

    Mere weeks before her injury, the Australian Superstar had been revealed as a new member of The Judgment Day, which turned on Edge shortly before her injury.

    Despite an initial strong start, The Judgment Day has struggled on WWE TV since Ripley’s absence, with Finn Balor and Damian Priest losing both matches since Rhea’s injury, albeit by disqualification.

    Ripley had also been next in line for a Raw Women’s Championship match, but was pulled from the Money in the Bank Premium Live Event due to her injury.

    Is Rhea Ripley This Generation’s Lita?
  • Naomi Says She is Tired of Being Taken Advantage Of

    Naomi Says She is Tired of Being Taken Advantage Of

    It’s been nearly two months now since Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of WWE Raw over a creative difference with the planned main event.

    The then-WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions believed that the main event, which would have seen Naomi earn a Raw Women’s Title match, lessened the importance of their tag titles.

    Since then, the duo has been suspended without pay, and WWE has done all they can to distance themselves from the pair.

    Naomi’s Comment

    Naomi worked for WWE for over a decade on TV before her suspension and has seemingly grown tired of the way talent are being treated.

    In an Instagram Story, the former SmackDown Women’s Champion didn’t mention WWE by name but had some choice comments about being taken advantage of.

    “The moment you stop people from taking advantage of you and disrespecting you is when they define you as tough, selfish or crazy. Manipulators hate boundaries.”

    Naomi.

    Fans were quick to assume that Naomi was speaking about WWE given how the company has treated her in recent months.

    Will Naomi go?

    While it has been reported that Sasha Banks has been released by WWE, Naomi is seemingly still with the company.

    The big question now is will she go, as her contract is reportedly set to expire later this year.

    It’s always worth considering that Naomi is married to Jimmy Uso, and that being part (albeit indirectly) of the Bloodline carries some significant influence.

    The last thing WWE wants to do is draw the ire of Roman Reigns should they release his cousin’s wife.

    Naomi is Spreading Positive Vibes During WWE Suspension
  • Kofi Kingston is Ready to Walk Through the Forbidden Door

    Kofi Kingston is Ready to Walk Through the Forbidden Door

    Having debuted on the main roster in 2008, Kofi Kingston is one of WWE’s most veteran Superstars and has faced several big names.

    Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, and Roman Reigns are just some of the Superstars Kingston has faced throughout his highly-successful 14-year career with WWE.

    Kingston is both a WWE triple-crown and Grand Slam champion, but there’s a lot that Kofi hasn’t done in his career yet.

    Kingston through the Forbidden Door

    Kofi Kingston may have faced some of WWE’s biggest stars of the modern era, but there are plenty of names the former World Champion has never faced.

    MJF, Will Ospreay, and Kenny Omega are just some of the big names Kingston has never stepped foot in the ring with.

    While speaking with Sebastian Hackl for WWE Deutschland, Kofi was asked about the ‘Forbidden Door’ which has allowed wrestlers to compete for other companies, and whether he’d be interested in stepping through (via Sportskeeda.)

    “Yeah, I mean there’s a lot, I think more so now. Well, you know, since Mickie James came to the Rumble right, the quote-on-quote ‘Forbidden Door, that was never to be talked about, was opened. So, there’s a lot of different people from a lot of different promotions that are incredibly talented that I would love to mix it up with and have matches with for sure.”

    “There’s a lot of different people from a lot of different promotions that are incredibly talented that I would love to mix it up with.”

    Kofi Kingston

    While WWE did allow Mickie James, an Impact Wrestling star to compete at this year’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, there’s been no word of a fully-fledged event featuring WWE talent wrestling those from another company.

    Kofi Kingston On Big E’s Neck Injury: “It Was The Scariest Night Of My Career”
  • Tony Khan Rules out Location for Future AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door Events

    Tony Khan Rules out Location for Future AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door Events

    Last month, AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling hosted their Forbidden Door Pay Per View, which proved to be a hit with fans.

    The show saw Jay White retain his IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, while Jon Moxley captured the Interim AEW World Championship.

    Unsurprisingly, the show’s success has led to talks of subsequent Forbidden Door shows,

    Location, Location, Location

    Forbidden Door took place at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, despite a ton of talent coming from New Japan Pro Wrestling.

    Of course, only one country could host Forbidden Door, and on this occasion, that was the U.S.

    While speaking to the New York Post about the future of the show, Tony Khan vowed that despite New Japan’s influence, Forbidden Door will never go overseas.

    “The idea of doing an event over there with AEW stars and New Japan stars is very potentially interesting, but if it happens it won’t be Forbidden Door. Forbidden Door is gonna stay in North America. It wouldn’t make sense with the time zones, the revenue.”

    Khan has vowed that Forbidden Door will become an annual event.

    Exceeding Expectations

    It should come as no surprise that Khan is already making plans for a second Forbidden Door Pay Per View.

    Speaking on the post-Forbidden Door media scrum, Khan said the show was a financial hit, exceeding over $1.1 million in ticket sales.

    Khan also said that surpassing 100,000 Pay Per View buys, which he believes happened, is a success for the show.

  • What Did Bray Wyatt tell Alexa Bliss Before his WWE Release?

    What Did Bray Wyatt tell Alexa Bliss Before his WWE Release?

    In July 2021, WWE shocked fans by releasing Bray Wyatt, bringing the three-time former World Champion’s lengthy run with the company to an end.

    Since returning as the leader of the Firefly Fun House in 2019, Wyatt had become one of the company’s most popular stars, and that support only grew after the debut of his ‘The Fiend’ alter-ego.

    Prior to his release, Wyatt worked closely with Alexa Bliss on-screen, who had been corrupted by his dark character.

    Bliss would ultimately turn on Wyatt, costing him his match against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 37, Bray’s most recent match to date.

    Bray’s Last Words

    After Wyatt was released, many fans got angry at Alexa Bliss, who they accused of having ‘stolen’ The Fiend character from him.

    While Bliss did keep using her ‘Dark Alexa’ persona, this wasn’t a dig at Wyatt.

    Instead, the former Raw Women’s Champion explained to Metro UK how Wyatt gave her some sage words of wisdom prior to his release (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “Before he left, he just said, ‘Keep it alive, keep it going’, so I took that to heart and tried to keep it alive and going.”

    Alexa Bliss shares Bray Wyatt’s last words to her,

    Bliss has since ditched the ‘Dark Alexa’ persona but still carries Lilly to the ring.

    Bray’s Next Move

    Bray Wyatt hasn’t wrestled or even appeared for any other company since his WWE release which took place nearly one year ago.

    However, Wyatt has said he “often” thinks about his return to wrestling, and has insisted that he’s not done in the ring yet.

    Alexa Bliss ‘Didn’t Care’ About The Negative Reaction To Her Dark Persona
  • Read WWE’s Memo to Employees After Latest Vince McMahon Bombshell

    Read WWE’s Memo to Employees After Latest Vince McMahon Bombshell

    WWE has sent an internal memo to their employees following another bombshell article by the Wall Street Journal.

    The Journal reported in May 2022 that McMahon allegedly arranged a $3 million payout to a female paralegal with whom he had an affair.

    Today, a second report from the WSJ claims that McMahon has had four affairs over the past 16 years in WWE, with close to $12 million being paid in ‘hush money.

    The Memo

    WWE shared the following message within the company:

    “The Wall Street Journal has published a second story with expanded details on its initial WWE report last month. We want to reiterate that we and our Board of Directors take these allegations seriously.

    We’ve been cooperating fully with the investigation led by our Board of Directors and will continue to do so until its conclusion. Please note that upon its conclusion, WWE leadership will make itself available to answer any questions you may have.

    Thank you.”

    What’s Next?

    While many believed that McMahon would survive the scandal when it was just one woman he is alleged to have had an affair with, the three new claims against him change everything.

    In the case of one of the women, a former WWE Superstar who departed in 2005, it is reported that she was coerced to perform oral sex on the Chairman despite not wishing to.

    McMahon has said he will respect the result of the investigation no matter what the findings may be.

    As he has stepped down from the role of CEO and Chair of WWE, Stephanie McMahon has filled both positions on an interim basis.

    Vince McMahon Steps Down, Stephanie McMahon Named Interim WWE CEO & Chairwoman
  • Ilja Dragunov Forced to Vacate WWE NXT UK Championship

    Ilja Dragunov Forced to Vacate WWE NXT UK Championship

    WWE has a loaded roster right now, but several of the promotion’s top Superstars are currently on the injured list.

    Cody Rhodes isn’t expected back for months after tearing his pectoral muscle just hours before the WWE Hell in a Cell Premium Live Event last month.

    Randy Orton has been out of action for over a month now, while Rhea Ripley had to be pulled from a Raw Women’s Championship match due to a brain injury.

    The Champion Vacates

    Now, another WWE Superstar is out, and it has cost them their championship.

    At the start of the latest NXT UK television tapings, NXT UK Champion Ilja Dragunov vacated the title due to an undisclosed injury.

    Reports from the BT Studios in London, England note that Dragunov was spotted wearing a protective boot over one of his legs.

    An eight-man tournament began during the tapings to crown a new champion with Tyler Bate, Trent Seven, Mark Coffey, and Oliver Carter all advancing to the next round.

    Dragunov’s Reign

    Dragunov’s reign marks the first time the NXT UK Championship has been vacated.

    His title reign began in August 2021, ending the record-breaking 870-day reign of WALTER, now Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER.

    Dragunov had six successful title defenses during his reign, retaining his title against A-Kid (Axiom), Jordan Devlin (JD McDonagh), Rampage Brown, Roderick Strong, and Nathan Frazier.

    Ilja’s reign has ended at 320 days, making him the third-longest reigning NXT UK Champion.

  • Worrying Update About Top AEW Star

    Worrying Update About Top AEW Star

    All Elite Wrestling has proven to be incredibly popular with fans, but the company is dealing with plenty of injuries at this time.

    Former World Champion Kenny Omega is still out of action with his last match taking place at last year’s Full Gear, and reigning AEW World Champion CM Punk is also injured.

    Recently, Tony Khan confirmed that Santana is injured and there’s a worrying update about one of the promotion’s biggest stars.

    Danielson’s Update

    Bryan Danielson is one of AEW’s top stars, but he too is dealing with an injury.

    Danielson hasn’t competed since AEW Double or Nothing 2022, where the Blackpool Combat Club lost to the Jericho Appreciation Society in the Anarchy in the Arena match.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that there’s still no word on when Danielson could be cleared to wrestle.

    “I know in real life and everything like that he’s fine, he can function, he can do everything. But as far as being cleared to wrestle, — no one knows – getting cleared from a concussion can be any time. There’s no timeframe.”

    “no one knows – getting cleared from a concussion can be any time. There’s no timeframe.”

    Dave Meltzer on Bryan Danielson’s injury.

    Danielson’s injury forced him to miss Forbidden Door and the Blood and Guts match on the following Dynamite.

    Danielson and Concussions

    Danielson is out with a concussion, which has some fans worried given his history of concussions.

    In 2014, a neck injury and concussion forced Danielson to vacate the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, and he retired two years later due to concussions.

    In 2018, Danielson was cleared to wrestle again and returned at that year’s WrestleMania 34 Pay Per View.

    AEW Stars Appear on WWE Raw to Salute John Cena
  • Buff Bagwell Addresses Recent Twitter Controversy

    Buff Bagwell Addresses Recent Twitter Controversy

    Like many wrestlers, Buff Bagwell has a Twitter profile that allows fans to keep up to date with the former WCW World Tag Team Champion.

    This week though, Bagwell’s name was trending for all the wrong reasons as fans began criticizing some of the comments they have received from his account.

    There were also issues raised by fans who say they purchased Buff Bagwell merchandise only to not receive it.

    Bagwell’s Response

    In a YouTube video, Bagwell addressed the situation head-on, saying that “a guy named Michael Long” has been operating his account.

    Bagwell admitted that a lot of fans paid for “certain merchandise that they ordered” and apologized for this mistake.

    He added that while fans paid, he did not see any of that money and plans on getting to the bottom of this.

    Long reportedly also has a criminal record, according to Bagwell, which the wrestler said he was unaware of when hiring Long to the position in charge of his social media.

    Bagwell also promised to deal with that situation on his own.

    Addressing claims that he wasn’t tweeting a lot and it was mostly Long who tweeted on his behalf, Bagwell said that he and his team discuss things when he is away, but that he is still a huge part of his Twitter profile.

    Nevertheless, Buff promised to be more “activated” with his online presence.

    Bagwell finished the video, which can be viewed below, saying he plans on making sure controversies like these do not happen again.

  • Wrestling Entertainment Series Confirm Debut Show has been Canceled

    Wrestling Entertainment Series Confirm Debut Show has been Canceled

    Former WWE tag team the Authors of Pain had hoped their Wrestling Entertainment Series promotion would be the next big thing in the industry, but the company has had a rocky time so far.

    After announcing a stacked card, including several former WWE Superstars, the company faced criticism from some wrestlers associated with the show, some of which were still featured on promotional materials after announcing that they wouldn’t be appearing.

    This Saturday was meant to see WES’ debut show in Nottingham, England, but that’s no longer the case.

    The Statement

    In a statement, WES confirmed that the debut show at the Motorpoint Arena was no longer happening.

    The promotion said they were “deeply disappointed” that the show would not go ahead as planned, and had some choice words about one member of the roster.

    WES said that all wrestlers who were promoted for the show will be paid in full, including Lina Fanene (Nia Jax) who they said will be paid her deposit even after she “changed her mind and did not want to show up and wrestle anymore.”

    The full statement can be read below.

    Image

    Mojo’s Response

    One name who had not pulled out of the show is Mojo Rawley, who tweeted that it is “unfortunate” to see WES’ debut show be canceled.

    Mojo added that while he won’t be wrestling, he will be doing a free meet and greet with fans who bought tickets to WES this Sunday.

    Fans who did not purchase a ticket will have to pay for the meet and greet, though the former 24/7 Champion has promised that 100% of all money raised will go to the UK talent who have yet to be paid by WES.

    Matthew Rehwoldt: ‘WES Has Cost Me Time & Money,’ Doesn’t Think Their Debut Show Will Happen
  • Don’t Expect AEW Star to Return Anytime Soon

    Don’t Expect AEW Star to Return Anytime Soon

    AEW has been plagued with injuries over the past month, with several stars being taken out of action.

    AEW World Champion CM Punk announced his injury just days after he captured the title from ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, and Bryan Danielson is also said to have suffered an injury and hasn’t wrestled in over a month.

    Former World Champion Kenny Omega continues to be away recovering from surgery after dealing with multiple injuries, and now another star is out of commission.

    Santana injured

    During the recent Blood and Guts match, Santana competed and had a spot that didn’t go according to plan.

    Santana had an awkward uranage spot with Daniel Garcia mere minutes after he entered the double cage, which led many to believe Santana is injured.

    While speaking on Busted Open Radio, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the news that Santana is injured, saying it “could be a relatively long injury.” 

    Khan added that he spoke to Santana after Blood & Guts, ensuring the wrestler that the company will stand by him throughout his recovery.

    Khan gave no specific time window as to when Santana will be back in the ring.

    His previous injury

    This is a bad time for Santana, but not the first time he’s had to deal with an injury.

    In May 2019, while working for Impact Wrestling, Santana suffered a stage two tear in his MCL.

    Santana was cleared to wrestle that same month, but would finish up with Impact in early August, and debuted for AEW at All Out on August 31.