SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • John Cena Reaches New Milestone with Make-A-Wish

    John Cena Reaches New Milestone with Make-A-Wish

    John Cena will return to WWE on next week’s Monday Night Raw, marking 20 years since his debut on the main roster.

    On the June 27, 2002, edition of SmackDown, Cena answered Kurt Angle’s open challenge, ushering in an era of ‘Ruthless Aggression.’

    Cena has become one of WWE’s most decorated champions of all time, but his actions outside of the ring should also be commended.

    Cena’s Record-Breaking Wish

    One of Cena’s biggest contributions outside of the ring is his work with the Make-A-Wish foundation, making dreams come true for children facing life-threatening battles or terminal diseases.

    Now, Cena has reached a milestone 650th wish and holds the record for the most wishes by far.

    While fellow wrestler Hulk Hogan has granted an impressive 200 wishes, no one has passed 300 other than “Big Match John.”

    WWE themselves shared news of Cena’s latest wish with a tweet.

    Cena’s first Wish

    While Cena has become a powerhouse of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, his first wish did not go exactly as the 16-time WWE World Champion had hoped.

    Speaking to People, Cena said how he granted his very first wish in 2002, mere months after his debut on SmackDown.

    Cena explained how he had not been requested, as the young fan wanted to meet another Superstar who was unavailable.

    “We’re shuttled in and [I] said my hellos and took my pictures and then left. And they’re like, ‘Thank you, Make-A-Wish thanks you.’ I was like, ‘What is Make-A-Wish.”

    After learning about Make-A-Wish, Cena vowed to always be around if a wish needed to be granted.

    Update on WWE’s Plans for John Cena at SummerSlam
  • Dewey Foley Parts Ways with WWE

    Dewey Foley Parts Ways with WWE

    WWE is full of writers and members of the creative team, who are tasked each week with coming up with new stories for the shows.

    The Company’s creative team are often criticized by fans for the storylines we see on TV, but will now have to operate without one notable name.

    Dewey Leaves

    PW Insider were the first to report that Foley has parted ways with WWE.

    It’s reported that while many have been released by WWE due to budget cuts, Foley chose to leave the promotion.

    One source claimed that Foley left in April though that has not been confirmed at this time.

    Dewey in WWE

    Dewey Foley’s first WWE appearance came all the way back in 1999, when he and the Foley family watched at ringside for Mick’s I-Quit match with The Rock at that year’s Royal Rumble.

    Before joining the WWE, Foley proved his credentials by posting writing samples on CreativeWWE.wordpress.com containing a lot of storyline ideas for the company.

    In 2015, Dewey signed with WWE and served initially as a writing assistant, before becoming a fully-fledged part of WWE creative.

    In August 2020, it was reported that Foley, alongside Adam Pearce was now running 205 Live, with the Wrestling Observer Newsletter describing the pair as “the key creative forces” behind the Cruiserweight division.

    Foley occasionally played the role of Mr. Bootyworth in segments featuring the New Day.

    Mick Foley’s Son Involved In WWE SmackDown Angle, The Rock Hypes His Latest Book
  • Ex-Ring of Honor World Champion Out With an Injury

    Ex-Ring of Honor World Champion Out With an Injury

    Fans of former Ring of Honor World Champion Bandido won’t be seeing much of him, as he’s currently dealing with some kind of injury.

    Bandido was advertised for a WrestleRex event set to go down in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on June 30, but has now been pulled from the event.

    The promotion confirmed that Bandido is dealing with some kind of injury, but did not specify what has happened to the wrestler.

    It isn’t known who Bandido was scheduled to face at the event, but he has been replaced by former WWE Superstar Lince Dorado.

    The Injury

    Bandido hasn’t confirmed when exactly the injury took place, but the current belief is that it happened at the recent AAA TripleMania event.

    On the show, Bandido faced Rey Fenix, Black Taurus, Laredo Kid and El Hijo Del Vikingo in a match for both the AAA World Cruiserweight and Latin American Championships.

    During the match, Bandido landed badly on his head and was stretchered out.

    He later stated on Instagram that his neck was not fractured though added that he did need to rest.

    Fenix would win the match and both titles.

    Future Plans

    At tomorrow’s Battle Riot IV event in New York, Bandido had been scheduled to face MLW World Champion Alex Hammerstone.

    However, given this injury, it is unlikely that Bandido will make it to the match.

    At this moment, no timeline has been given as to when Bandido will be fully healed and back in the ring.

    Bandido Breaks Silence On No-Showing GCW Event
  • Ric Flair Loses it After AEW Star No-Shows his Podcast

    Ric Flair Loses it After AEW Star No-Shows his Podcast

    Next month, Ric Flair will have his last ever match, bringing his incredible in-ring career to its final end.

    Flair has been training with AEW’s very own Jay Lethal ahead of his last match, and fans may remember their infamous interactions in TNA Wrestling many years ago.

    Given that the pair are training together, you’d naturally assume the duo is close, but things got tense this week.

    Lethal No Shows

    Lethal was scheduled to appear on Ric Flair’s podcast this week but didn’t appear in any capacity.

    In his response, Flair went on the show to claim that Lethal has an “attitude,” which has caused friction between them (via WrestlingNews.co.)

    “Is he gonna hear this, if I say it? I don’t care. He’s got an attitude. He wants to be part of the show. And I said it ain’t gonna happen. You know how that happens all of a sudden and everybody’s feelings are hurt. You know, this is what we discussed, some people’s feelings are gonna be hurt.

    “I’m not saying anything bad. I don’t have the authority, even though [I am a] co-owner of this venture. I don’t have the authority to put him on the card. So I think he’s upset about that, but he’ll get over it.

    “They can block this out but you can’t make chicken salad out of chicken sh*t.”

    Ric Flair, on Jay Lethal no-showing his podcast.

    Lethal hasn’t responded publicly to Flair’s comments at this time.

    Ric Flair’s Last Match Moved to a Much Larger Venue
  • AEW is Trying to Find the Best Home for Canadian Debut

    AEW is Trying to Find the Best Home for Canadian Debut

    In the three years since being founded, AEW has proven to be a hit with wrestling fans around the world.

    AEW content is aired in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia, but has so far only hosted shows in the United States.

    Fans around the world have been clamoring for AEW to bring their unique brand of programming to their countries, and now audiences in Canada are one step closer to watching AEW live and in person.

    AEW in Canada

    While speaking to The Star in Canada, Tony Khan addressed plans for one of his promotions to travel to the Great White North (via nodq.com.)

    “We’re all back on the road this past year and we’ve been all over America, but I do look forward to bringing an AEW live events to Canada soon. I think we have a chance to really build a strong presence, not only what we’ve established on television with TSN, but also with live events for the fans.”

    Khan also praised Canada for being the home of some of AEW’s wrestlers, including Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega, Christian Cage and Kyle O’Reilly.

    “We have a lot of great Canadian wrestlers and I’m excited about the possibility of our live events here because we’ve had great success on TV here.”

    Tony Khan.

    While Khan said that Toronto is his current favorite to host AEW’s debut event in Canada, he also mentioned Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver for future events.

    Cody Talks The Success Of TNT Title, Teases Canadian Version
  • Is Seth Rollins Actually Better than Roman Reigns?

    Is Seth Rollins Actually Better than Roman Reigns?

    Everyone wants to be the best at what they do, and professional wrestling is no exception.

    In WWE today, it’s safe to consider Roman Reigns the biggest Superstar of the current era, as the “Head of the Table” is now in his 661st day as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

    Reigns has dominated WWE since his heel turn and title win in August 2020, but Seth Rollins believes he has a leg-up on the Champ.

    Rollins’ Comment

    This week, the New York Post published an article, saying that Rollins is on an all-time run in WWE.

    The article said that Rollins’ current run may be better than the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

    Responding, Rollins told the NYP to drop the maybe, assuring that he is definitively better than the “Tribal Chief.

    Reigns Vs. Rollins. Who is Better?

    Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns have had their careers compared for years, thanks in part to their simultaneous debuts at Survivor Series 2012.

    In terms of metrics, Reigns has a clear advantage, being taller, bigger, and with more World Championships to his name.

    However, Rollins is often considered the better wrestler between the two given the multiple styles he can bring to the ring.

    Rollins is considered by many to be the more popular of the two, given that Reigns was hated by fans for much of his tenure as a babyface.

    “The Architect” also has some accolades Reigns does not have, including two tenures as Intercontinental Champion, as well as being a former Mr. Money in the Bank.

    Rollins is also the only person to hold a PLE victory over Reigns since the latter’s heel turn, albeit via disqualification at the 2022 Royal Rumble.

    With that said, it’s clear which name WWE considers to be a bigger star, as while Rollins competes each week, Reigns’ appearances are becoming rarer and treated as a much bigger deal.

  • Naomi to Make Return to TV, but Not for WWE

    Naomi to Make Return to TV, but Not for WWE

    Naomi hasn’t been seen on WWE TV since her now-infamous walkout during the May 16, 2022 episode of Raw.

    “The Glow” alongside Sasha Banks walked out due to a creative difference with the planned main event, which would have seen Naomi earn a shot at the Raw Women’s Title.

    The duo, then the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, believed the match would lessen the importance of their titles, and while Naomi hasn’t been seen since, she will soon be back on TV.

    Naomi’s Appearance

    On Twitter, the fan-run account @NaomiWWENews announced that the former SmackDown Women’s Champion will feature on an episode of the upcoming season of Celebrity Game Face, hosted by Kevin Hart.

    Naomi herself would go on to confirm the news by retweeting this tweet though there is no word on when the episode will air.

    More Guests

    After over a month off TV, Naomi’s appearance will be a huge deal for WWE fans, but she won’t be the only WWE names around.

    Eonline.com reports that WWE Hall of Famers The Bella Twins will also be appearing on the third season of Celebrity Game Face.

    The Miz has previously appeared on the show.

    Naomi is Spreading Positive Vibes During WWE Suspension

  • Good News for Vince McMahon as lengthy Lawsuit Ends

    Good News for Vince McMahon as lengthy Lawsuit Ends

    Vince McMahon has had a difficult time as of late, as the ex-WWE CEO is under investigation.

    In addition to the investigation into an alleged affair with a paralegal, McMahon’s company is also being investigated by multiple law firms for alleged violations to their shareholders.

    In just one week, McMahon has gone from the unquestionable head of WWE to stepping down as CEO and under investigation, but there is some good news for the billionaire promoter.

    McMahon and Luck Settle

    PW Insider reports that McMahon and former XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck have settled their lawsuit out of court.

    This settlement comes weeks before the two sides were set to go to trial on July 7, in Connecticut.

    In a statement to Brandon Thurston, an attorney for Luck said the decision had been amicable, and both sides wished the other the best in future endeavors.

    The Lawsuit

    Luck initiated his lawsuit against McMahon and Alpha Entertainment in 2020, shortly after the premature end of the XFL’s second incarnation.

    The suit claimed that Luck’s contract guaranteed him full pay, an estimated worth of $25 million over five years if his contract was terminated without cause.

    Luck claimed he was owed $23.8 million remaining on his deal, other damages, plus his attorney fees.

    McMahon’s legal team later responded that Luck had been negligent in his duties as XFL commissioner, giving the league cause to terminate him.

    McMahon’s counter-claim focused on Luck’s signing of wide receiver Antonio Callaway, whose 2018 legal issues violated the league’s mandate to not sign players with any off-the-field issues.

    The Rock & Investor Group Purchase The XFL for $15 Million
  • Booker T has “Nothing but Love” for Adam Cole After ‘Body Shaming’ Comments

    Booker T has “Nothing but Love” for Adam Cole After ‘Body Shaming’ Comments

    Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T recently made some comments about Adam Cole that didn’t go down well.

    Speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast recently, Booker said how “we gotta get more weight on Adam Cole” and said the former NXT Champion’s frame was a factor behind injuries in his career.

    Many fans on social media called out Booker as “body shaming” the leader of The Undisputed Elite and Renee Paquette seemingly reacted to Booker’s statement with a tweet.

    Clarifying his comments

    While speaking with Brad Gilmore, Booker clarified his comments about Cole, saying that he doesn’t want to come across as obtusely critical of the AEW star or AEW as a whole (via Wrestling Inc.)

    “People want to make it seem like I’m hating on an AEW guy – I’m not. If I didn’t like Adam Cole, I wouldn’t be saying that we need to get some muscle on him. I’d be saying a whole lot worse than that.”

    Booker T.

    In a tweet of his own, Booker said that his initial comments had been taken out of context.

    Is Cole injury-prone?

    In late, it was reported that Adam Cole was dealing with a shoulder injury, which would force him out of a match for AEW.

    Cole had been scheduled to compete in a tag match on the June 1, Dynamite, but was pulled, and Jeff Hardy was pulled from the opposing team to balance things out.

    It was later reported that AEW was hopeful that Cole will be healed up to compete by this weekend’s Forbidden Door event.

  • WWE in Trouble With ANOTHER Investigation

    WWE in Trouble With ANOTHER Investigation

    WWE has certainly had a difficult time over the past week with multiple investigations taking place throughout the company.

    Last week, it was announced that Vince McMahon is under investigation over an alleged affair and $3 million ‘hush money’ payout, an investigation that has seen McMahon step down as WWE CEO.

    Not long after, it was reported that the law firm Scott+Scott would be investigating members of the company’s management to determine if they’ve breached their duties to the company and its shareholders.

    Another Investigation

    As if having the Chairman and several high-profile names being investigated wasn’t bad enough, WWE is now facing another investigation.

    The Schall Law Firm have announced that they are investigating claims on behalf of the company’s investors, alleging that there have been violations of the securities law.

    The investigation will focus on whether WWE made false or misleading statements important to investors, or did not inform investors on matters that they should have been told about.

    A statement by the law firm suggests that by not informing investors about the investigation into McMahon (and John Laurinaitis,) WWE kept vital information that would have been important to investors.

    Any shareholders who have suffered a loss due to WWE have been asked to get in contact with the firm.

    McMahon’s next move

    On SmackDown, Vince McMahon made his first public appearance since stepping down as WWE CEO but did not address the ongoing investigation.

    Instead, McMahon stressed the ‘Together’ part of WWE’s tagline ‘Then. Now. Forever. Together,’ and welcomed fans to the show.

    McMahon has vowed to respect the result of the investigation, no matter the outcome, though many believe that he will survive the investigation into the alleged affair.

    Vince McMahon’s SmackDown Promo Described As ‘Tone Deaf And Embarrassing’
  • Internal Plans for WWE Raw Tonight

    Internal Plans for WWE Raw Tonight

    Tonight’s edition of WWE Monday Night Raw will air from Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska, and will see the company continue on the road to Money in the Bank.

    The first Raw of the Stephanie McMahon era will certainly be an interesting night for fans, and there’s plenty happening behind the scenes this week.

    What’s in store?

    One of the major selling points of tonight’s show is the return of Elias, who is set to appear alongside his ‘brother’ Ezekiel.

    Fightful Select reports that WWE is all-in on the return of the 24/7 Champion, who will have a guitar-smashing segment as part of his concert alongside his brother tonight, according to an internal listing.

    The report adds that an edition of Miz TV is also planned for tonight’s show, but there’s no word on who the two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion will have as his guest.

    One name who could be speaking to The Miz is Riddle, who after losing his WWE Undisputed Universal Championship match against Roman Reigns on SmackDown, is booked to appear tonight.

    WWE United States Champion Theory will continue his posing gimmick that began last week after he faced Bobby Lashley in a pose down.

    It has been confirmed by WWE that Asuka will face Becky Lynch with the winner earning a spot in the Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder match on July 2.

    Alexa Bliss, Carmella, MVP, The Street Profits, and Bobby Lashley have also all been booked for tonight’s show. 

    Wrestletix reported last night that 5,584 tickets out of a possible 5,990 had been sold for tonight’s show, meaning there were little over 400 seats left at the time of their report.

  • Ronda Rousey & Natalya Talk OnlyFans & Conspiracy Theories in Twitter Feud

    Ronda Rousey & Natalya Talk OnlyFans & Conspiracy Theories in Twitter Feud

    WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey will defend her title against Natalya at Money in the Bank on July 2.

    Natalya earned a shot at the “Baddest Woman on the Planet” a few weeks ago on SmackDown, and the pair aren’t backing down in their build towards WWE’s next Premium Live Event.

    Rousey and Natalya’s War of Words

    On Twitter, Rousey kicked things off with a tweet referencing Natalya’s sister Jenni, who has an account on OnlyFans.

    Speaking about the Neidhart sister’s Youtube channel ‘The Neidharts‘ Rousey described the channel as a “discount onlyfans sister fetish youtube channel” calling it “weird and embarrassing.”

    The channel, which began in January 2020 currently boasts over 78,000 subscribers and over 5 million views.

    Many of the videos show the incredibly close relationship between the Neidharts, who often share a bed, kiss, or try and expose one another as part of their content.

    Natalya fired back with a tweet of her own, saying she would rather make videos with her attractive sister than discussing “conspiracy theories” that are “weird.”

    You can check out both tweets below.

    Rousey’s Conspiracy Theory

    Natalya didn’t address any conspiracy theories specifically, but Rousey’s name is linked to one in particular.

    In December 2012, a shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School led to the deaths of 20 children and six staff members in one of the worst mass shootings in the United States of the past decade.

    Some have claimed that the shooting was staged, and in 2013, Rousey (then with UFC) shared a video claiming the shooting was not real and called the video “extremely interesting, and must-watch.”

    Deleting her first tweet, Rousey followed up saying “Asking questions and doing research is more patriotic than blindly accepting what you’re told,” before later apologizing for promoting the baseless conspiracy theory.

    Ronda Rousey’s Opinion of WWE Locker Room is Wild
  • WWE Raw Superstars Annoyed by Waiting Times Between Matches

    WWE Raw Superstars Annoyed by Waiting Times Between Matches

    Each week, WWE Superstars appear on hours of programming which is aired around the world across various continents.

    To keep producing WWE TV content, the company needs to work smoothly with its production team, who decides what airs and at what time in the shows.

    Lately though, a new trend has begun emerging on TV, one that has left the roster furious.

    An Unhappy Roster

    According to Fightful Select, a lot of the Raw Superstars are unhappy with having to wait around for long periods of time before their matches begin.

    Between commercials, video packages, recaps of earlier segments, and interviews, the waiting time after an entrance now regularly exceeds ten minutes.

    Superstars who have complained to WWE’s higher-ups about the waiting time have been told that the TV show’s format “was what it was” and that these segments “improve the show flow” for fans watching at home.

    One anonymous Superstar who was asked what they do during this wait said they “talk to the crowd, dance and get annoyed that I’m waiting that long.”

    Liv’s 19-Minute Wait

    One example of WWE Superstars having to wait far too long took place ahead of the main event of the May 30, edition of Raw.

    On the show, Liv Morgan had her entrance ahead of a match with her former Tag-Team partner Rhea Ripley, but the two didn’t lock up for nearly 20 minutes.

    Superstars have reportedly seen this as a particularly egregious waiting time for Morgan, who would go on to defeat Ripley.

  • Alexa Bliss has “Fun” Future Goal Outside of the Ring

    Alexa Bliss has “Fun” Future Goal Outside of the Ring

    Since debuting in WWE, Alexa Bliss has proven herself to be a formidable contender in the ring.

    One of a small handful of women to have held the Raw Women’s Title, SmackDown Women’s Title, and WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles, Bliss is also a former Ms. Money in the Bank.

    Bliss has accomplished much more than others in WWE, but the Raw Superstar has plans outside of the ring.

    Bliss’ new career goal

    On Twitter, Bliss expressed her desire to voice an animated character saying that it would be “so much fun.”

    Bliss earned a ton of responses, with many calling on her to try and get a role in a Disney or Pixar movie.

    Another suggested Bliss voice DC Comics character Harley Quinn, who Bliss used as inspiration for her Backlash 2016 ring-attire.

    At least one person suggested that the Raw Superstar obtain her release from WWE in order to be able to control what kind of roles she can go for.

    Bliss outside of the Ring

    Alexa Bliss may be best known for her role as a WWE Superstar, but a career away from wrestling isn’t too far-fetched.

    In 2017, Bliss joined E!’s Total Divas and has made regular appearances on Xavier Woods’ UpUpDownDown YouTube channel, under the name Miss Bliss.

    In early 2020, Bliss appeared in a music video for Bowling for Soup, her favorite band, which made a song dedicated to and named after her.

    A year later, Bliss would appear alongside Charlotte Flair on an episode of Punky Brewster.

    Alexa Bliss Responds to Rumors of Possible Tag Team with Liv Morgan
  • Matt Hardy Names AEW Star with the Potential of The Rock & Hulk Hogan

    Matt Hardy Names AEW Star with the Potential of The Rock & Hulk Hogan

    When you think of wrestling’s biggest ever stars, two names likely to come to mind are The Rock and Hogan.

    The Rock has transcended wrestling to become a leading man in Hollywood, while Hogan, for good or bad, is still known around the world.

    Almost every wrestler wants to reach the same kind of heights as the “Brahma Bull or “The Hulkster,” but there’s one name who could have the potential to be the next breakout star.

    The next Rock and Hogan

    Hardy has seen plenty of big names come and go throughout his decades in the wrestling industry and right now, he’s particularly high on AEW’s Wardlow.

    Speaking to Drinks With Johnny, Hardy praised the young powerhouse in a discussion about whether any wrestlers today could have the mainstream appeal as Rock or Hogan.

    “I feel like Wardlow’s is a guy that might have that possibility here in AEW. I think he’s very special, he’s a good-looking dude, chicks love him, he’s super athletic and talented. You have a guy like that and hopefully, that does elevate the view of a company and kind of their status where they can grow and become more mainstream or whatever.”

    Wardlow has been on the rise in AEW with his biggest win so far coming at last month’s Double or Nothing, where he handily defeated MJF.

    What’s next for Wardlow?

    On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Wardlow made it clear that he has his eyes on the TNT Championship.

    Despite being in AEW for over two years now, Wardlow has yet to hold any gold as he has spent most of his career as MJF’s bodyguard.

    Today marks Scorpio Sky’s 53rd day during this second reign (91 days overall) and with the MJF story finished, Wardlow could indeed be next in line for a shot at the gold.

    Matt Hardy Says Childhood Trauma Caused Some of Jeff’s Issues
  • Cody Rhodes to be Treated like WWE Hall of Famer Upon Return

    Cody Rhodes to be Treated like WWE Hall of Famer Upon Return

    Cody Rhodes isn’t expected back on WWE TV for months following his torn pectoral muscle suffered while training.

    Despite the injury, Rhodes muscled through to defeat Seth Rollins at WWE Hell in a Cell 2022 in one of the gutsiest performances of his career.

    On the Raw after Hell in a Cell, Rhodes was written off TV by a sledgehammer attack by Rollins.

    Losing Rhodes is a huge blow to WWE who have made him the de facto face of the company since returning at WrestleMania 38, but the “American Nightmare” can expect a huge push upon his return.

    Cody Rhodes – The New Triple H

    A new report in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter notes that there’s been talk about giving Cody a huge return, akin to Triple H in early 2002.

    After “The Game” tore his quadriceps in mid-2001, he was out for months and had a lot of build to his January 2002 return.

    WWE’s production team filmed Triple H’s surgery and recovery, with weeks of promotional videos hyping his return.

    Triple H eventually returned to a thunderous response inside Madison Square Garden and captured the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 18.

    Similarly, WWE reportedly recorded the entirety of Cody’s surgery and plans on using the footage in promotional packages.

    Despite WWE reporting that he will be out for nine months, Cody is expected to return much sooner, and could be a selling point for the 2023 Royal Rumble.

    The 2002 Rumble match marked Triple H’s first televised match back from his injury and he would win the 30-man bout.

  • Vince McMahon Could be Fired from WWE Under Certain Conditions

    Vince McMahon Could be Fired from WWE Under Certain Conditions

    Vince McMahon has stepped down from his role as WWE CEO and Chairman, in the biggest shift in power the promotion has seen in decades.

    While McMahon is under investigation for an alleged affair and $3 million hush-money arrangement, many have said that he is safe, given that he’s the voting majority on WWE’s board of directors.

    McMahon has survived scandals in the past, but this is a new battle for the Sports-Entertainment promoter and he could lose his job after all.

    The Conditions

    According to Brandon Thurston of WrestleNomics, McMahon’s contract does give the board power to remove him if certain conditions are violated.

    While most have nothing to do with the ongoing investigation, there are two that stand out (via eWrestlingNews.)

    (a) the Executive’s theft or embezzlement, or attempted theft or embezzlement, of money or property of the Company or its affiliates.”

    McMahon’s contract

    While the investigation has yet to be concluded some have argued that McMahon could face allegations of embezzlement given their relationship.

    It has been claimed that the paralegal was promoted rapidly, from a $100,000 contract to a $200,000 deal after beginning the alleged physical relationship with McMahon.

    Given that the payment would have come out of WWE’s pocket, an embezzlement claim could be made.

    “(c) the Executive’s willful and intentional material misconduct in performance of his duties or gross negligence of his duties (other than due to the Executive’s Disability), including an intentional failure to follow any applicable Company policies or directives.”

    McMahon’s contract

    Having an affair with an employee could certainly be considered misconduct in the performance of his duties.

    What’s next for McMahon?

    Vince McMahon appeared on last night’s SmackDown but did not address the allegations against him.

    In his absence, Stephanie McMahon will serve as interim CEO and Chairwoman of WWE until the investigation is concluded.

    McMahon has promised to respect the result of the investigation no matter the result.

    Vince McMahon Was In ‘Great Mood’ Before SmackDown
  • Matt Hardy Says Childhood Trauma Caused Some of Jeff’s Issues

    Matt Hardy Says Childhood Trauma Caused Some of Jeff’s Issues

    Jeff Hardy has been arrested for driving under the influence yet again, marking his third DUI arrest in under a decade.

    Hardy’s problems with substances have seen him face suspensions in WWE, Impact Wrestling and now AEW, in a sad repeated pattern of behavior from the former World Champion.

    Matt’s Comments

    On this week’s “Extreme Life” podcast, Matt said he is doing all he can to support his younger brother after his latest run-in with the law.

    Speaking about what he believes started Jeff’s problems, Matt said a traumatic childhood event had a profound effect on “The Charismatic Enigma.” (via WrestlingNews)

    “I feel like some of Jeff’s issues probably come from our mother dying when he was so, so young. That was always an issue that he carried with him deeply. I know 100%, the biggest thing that drives me to stay healthy and not have an addiction issue at all, because I’m sure I have an addictive personality, but the thing that keeps me running and stronger than anything else is my family, my children, specifically.”

    Ruby Moore Hardy died in 1986 of brain cancer when Matt was just 12 years old and his brother Jeff was nine.

    What’s next for Jeff Hardy?

    This week, AEW President Tony Khan suspended Jeff without pay, stating that he will only be able to return if he can prove his sobriety.

    That is a huge setback for Jeff, but things could get much worse for the popular albeit problematic star.

    If convicted of a DUI, his third in ten years, Jeff could face up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.

    Update on Jeff Hardy’s Arrest Changing AEW’s Plans
  • Update on why WWE Executives were Burying Stephanie McMahon

    Update on why WWE Executives were Burying Stephanie McMahon

    Stephanie McMahon is the interim CEO and Chairwoman of WWE in arguably the biggest shift in power the company has ever seen.

    Ms. McMahon’s rise to power comes mere weeks after she announced she would be taking a leave of absence from her WWE duties to spend more time with her family.

    Shortly after McMahon announced her departure reports came out that WWE executives had been burying her, claiming her some within the company had doubts about her abilities.

    WWE’s Reasoning

    In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, a person with “extensive knowledge” told Dave Meltzer that the comments about Stephanie were because of her decision to take a hiatus.

    WWE was seemingly worried about how its public image and stock price would be affected following McMahon’s decision to take leave (via WrestleTalk.)

    “To the outside world, the idea of Vince McMahon’s daughter and the heir apparent to the top position in the company leaving the company she’s worked for her entire adult life would sound like something is wrong with the company. So they leak out that she underperformed at her job and her father pushed her out so that would explain that there wasn’t anything wrong, she was just not good at her job.”

    “they leak out that she underperformed at her job and her father pushed her out so that would explain that there wasn’t anything wrong.”

    Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

    Stephanie McMahon hasn’t responded to any of the claims that her work was lacking prior to her decision to take her leave of absence.

    The allegations against Vince McMahon

    Vince McMahon is facing claims that he had an extra-marital affair with an employee who was hired as a paralegal in 2019.

    The unnamed paralegal was promoted in April 2021 and departed WWE earlier this year.

    McMahon has said he is cooperating fully with the investigation and will respect the result no matter what it is.

    Vince McMahon Steps Down, Stephanie McMahon Named Interim WWE CEO & Chairwoman
  • Vince McMahon Steps Down, Stephanie McMahon Named Interim WWE CEO & Chairwoman

    Vince McMahon Steps Down, Stephanie McMahon Named Interim WWE CEO & Chairwoman

    WWE has undergone arguably its biggest shift in power in decades today with the announcement of Stephanie McMahon as Interim CEO.

    McMahon, who announced last month that she would be taking a break from WWE duties, was appointed following the announced investigation into her father Vince McMahon.

    McMahon is alleged to have arranged a $3 million hush-money payment to a paralegal it is claimed he had an affair with.

    The statement from WWE Corporate is as follows:

    STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– WWE and its Board of Directors jointly released the following statement today:

    Independent directors continue review of alleged executive misconduct

    Stephanie McMahon named interim CEO and interim Chairwoman

    Stamford, Conn. – WWE (NYSE: WWE) and the Board of Directors today announced that a Special Committee of the Board is conducting an investigation into alleged misconduct by its Chairman and CEO Vincent McMahon and John Laurinaitis, head of talent relations, and that, effective immediately, McMahon has voluntarily stepped back from his responsibilities as CEO and Chairman of the Board until the conclusion of the investigation. McMahon will retain his role and responsibilities related to WWE’s creative content during this period and remains committed to cooperating with the review underway.

    The Special Committee has appointed Stephanie McMahon to serve as interim CEO and interim Chairwoman.

    “I have pledged my complete cooperation to the investigation by the Special Committee, and I will do everything possible to support the investigation. I have also pledged to accept the findings and outcome of the investigation, whatever they are,” said Mr. McMahon.

    “I love this company and am committed to working with the Independent Directors to strengthen our culture and our Company; it is extremely important to me that we have a safe and collaborative workplace. I have committed to doing everything in my power to help the Special Committee complete its work, including marshaling the cooperation of the entire company to assist in the completion of the investigation and to implement its findings,” said Ms. McMahon.

    WWE and its Board of Directors take all allegations of misconduct very seriously. The Independent Directors of the Board engaged independent legal counsel to assist them with an independent review. In addition, the Special Committee and WWE will work with an independent third-party to conduct a comprehensive review of the company’s compliance program, HR function and overall culture.

    The Company and the Board do not expect to have further comment until the investigation is concluded

  • Cody Rhodes Still has the Double or Nothing Triple H Throne

    Cody Rhodes Still has the Double or Nothing Triple H Throne

    Cody Rhodes has been one of WWE’s most prominently featured Superstars since returning to the company at WrestleMania 38.

    Rhodes has three Premium Live Event victories over Seth Rollins and despite his recent torn pectoral injury, is expected to be in the main event scene for a long time to come.

    Cody’s return this past April came after three years with All Elite Wrestling, and “The American Nightmare” has one interesting souvenir from his time working for Tony Khan.

    The Throne

    On Twitter, Cody shared an image of the infamous throne from AEW Double or Nothing 2019, the promotion’s first Pay Per View.

    For his entrance, Rhodes destroyed a throne that bore a striking resemblance to one used by Triple H.

    Destroying it with a sledgehammer (another symbol of “The Game”) the message was clearly a shot at WWE and their COO.

    The image Rhodes shared also included Rhodes’ daughter Liberty Iris Runnels, who turns one year old tomorrow.

    Anti-WWE

    Cody Rhodes may be considered by many as the face of WWE these days, but it wasn’t too long ago that “The American Nightmare” was opposed to Vince McMahon’s company.

    In an interview this past April, Cody said he takes some of the blame for the tribalism between WWE and AEW fans (via Cageside Seats.)

    “Before making this WWE return, I’m taking little fun potshots and talking smack which is what wrestlers do. I think sometimes the fans that attach themselves to those statements forget that we are in the realm of entertainment, but I added to the tribalism myself.”

    Fantasy Booking Cody Rhodes’ Road to the WWE Championship
  • Update on Jeff Hardy’s Arrest Changing AEW’s Plans

    Update on Jeff Hardy’s Arrest Changing AEW’s Plans

    AEW has been left reeling from Jeff Hardy’s recent arrest, as the popular wrestler has been charged with three felonies, including driving under the influence.

    Prior to his arrest, Jeff and Matt were scheduled to face AEW World Tag Team Champions Jurrasic Express and the Young Bucks in a triple-threat Tag Team Title Ladder match.

    The match went ahead without the Hardys, and while the Bucks won, becoming the first two-time AEW World Tag Team Champions, the company had much different plans at first.

    The Plan

    According to Bryan Alverez, the original plan for the match was for Matt and Jeff to win the AEW World Tag Team Titles, which would have marked their first reign in the company.

    However, those plans changed following Jeff’s performance at May’s Double or Nothing Pay Per View, as it was deemed that the former WWE World Champion looked too bad in the ring.

    There were at one point, plans for the Hardys to be attacked before the match began, but neither Jeff nor his older brother was used at all for the match.

    Jeff’s arrest as expected played a massive role in the decision to change plans, and it’s reported that his openly telling the officers that he was going to undergo a brain scan was also an issue.

    What’s next for Jeff?

    Jeff Hardy has been suspended from AEW without pay, according to a statement given by Tony Khan over Twitter.

    This marks Hardy’s third DUI arrest within a decade which could lead to a hefty jail sentence for “The Charismatic Enigma.”

    In the state of Florida, where Hardy was arrested, a third DUI in under ten years can lead to a maximum five-year prison sentence.

    Jeff could also face up to $5,000 in fines, and a minimum 10-year driver’s license revocation.

    Ex-WWE Star Questions Why Matt Hardy Allowed Jeff Hardy to Drive
  • Von Erich Family Not Involved In Upcoming Zac Efron-led Biopic (Exclusive)

    Von Erich Family Not Involved In Upcoming Zac Efron-led Biopic (Exclusive)

    The Von Erich family is one of the most iconic lineages in professional wrestling, with its origins dating back to 1953.

    The Von Erichs have seen both highs and lows throughout their lives, so it’s only fitting that a biopic about the legendary family is set to be made.

    ‘The Iron Claw,’ named after Fritz Von Erich’s iconic finishing move, will see Zac Efron (Firestarter, The Greatest Showman) involved, but he’ll be working without the family.

    No Involvement

    SEScoops has learned that the surviving members of the legendary Von Erich family are not involved with the production of The Iron Claw.

    Kevin Von Erich is the last surviving son of Fritz Von Erich. His sons, Marshall and Ross Von Erich, currently wrestle as a tag team for Major League Wrestling (MLW).

    Even without the Von Erich’s involvement, the film will go ahead, produced and financed by A24 (Euphoria, Ramy.)

    Sean Durkin (The Nest) is on board to direct.

    A synopsis for the film is as follows:

    “Based on the true story of the Von Erichs, the film follows the rise and fall of the Von Erich family, a dynasty of wrestlers who made a huge impact on the sport from the 1960s to the present day.”

    Synopsis for The Iron Claw

    The Von Erich Family tragedy

    The Von Erich name began in wrestling when Fritz Von Erich entered the industry in the early 50s.

    Fritz would have six children, almost all of whom would meet tragic ends.

    Jack Adkinson Jr. died aged 6 after being shocked unconscious and drowning in a puddle, and David Von Erich died in 1984, which many believe was due to an overdose.

    Kerry Von Erich, who would have a reign as WWF Intercontinental Champion, died via suicide in 1993, and his brother Mike would also end his own life four years later.

    After the death of Mike, Chris Von Erich took his own life in 1991, leaving Kevin Von Erich as the only surviving son of Fritz.

    The third generation of Von Erichs includes Lacey Von Erich, who wrestled for TNA Wrestling and retired in 2010, and Ross and Marshall Von Erich, who compete to this day for MLW.

  • Randy Orton Expected to Miss the Remainder of 2022

    Randy Orton Expected to Miss the Remainder of 2022

    WWE’s week of bad news just got even worse.

    Several of the company’s top Superstars are currently off television for a variety of reasons. Roman Reigns is appearing less frequently. Brock Lesnar has been absent since WrestleMania 38. Cody Rhodes just had pectoral surgery. Sasha Banks is reportedly gone from the company and now it appears Randy Orton won’t be seen any time soon, either.

    Randy Orton Injury Update

    Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select was the first to report that WWE fears Orton will be out of action for the rest of the year, a huge blow to the company.

    Orton last competed on the May 20th edition of SmackDown, teaming with Riddle in a losing effort to The Usos in the tag title Unification match.

    On the following Raw, Riddle revealed that Orton has been working through serious injuries and could “barely walk” prior to the tag title unification match.

    Unfortunately, Orton’s physical ailments are legitimate. According to the Fightful report, Orton needed to “have work done” in order for him to be able to compete in the tag title unification match. Things have gotten worse since then and there’s fear he will be forced to undergo back surgery.

    Randy Orton isn’t factored into creative plans for WWE at the moment, after being slated for a huge role this summer.

    – Fightful Select

    A Change of Plans

    Losing Orton for the rest of the year could not come at a worse time for WWE which is already missing several major players.

    It had been reported that Orton was the planned opponent for Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns at Summerslam, but that match is seemingly off now.

    With Reigns not competing at Money in the Bank, WWE will want to have a match featuring the “Tribal Chief” at their biggest party of the Summer.

    Though Drew McIntyre remains active on the roster, he has already called out Reigns for a match at September’s Clash at the Castle event.

    WWE Provides Serious Health Update On Randy Orton
  • Joey Janela is Suspicious of AEW Featuring Sonny Kiss on Dynamite

    Joey Janela is Suspicious of AEW Featuring Sonny Kiss on Dynamite

    AEW star Sonny Kiss was featured on last night’s AEW Dynamite, but it wasn’t in a match.

    Instead, the 28-year-old wrestler was part of a commercial celebrating Pride month, but the timing of this has been criticized by one ex-AEW talent.

    Janela’s response

    After the commercial aired, ex-AEW talent Joey Janela pointed out how Kiss was featured, but she hasn’t been used in a match on TV in years.

    Sonny Kiss’ last match on AEW Dynamite was back on the October 21, 2020 edition of Dynamite, where she lost to Kenny Omega.

    Janela said that AEW should “cut the bullsh*t,” insinuating that the only reason the company featured Kiss was due to Pride month.

    You can check out Janela’s tweet below.

    AEW and LGBTQ+

    Anthony Bowens with his partner Michael, in a 2019 video where the AEW wrestler announced he solely identifies as gay.

    Sonny Kiss is proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community but she isn’t the only star on AEW’s roster who is part of this group.

    Anthony Bowens previously identified as bisexual, but revealed that he solely identifies as gay in a 2019 video.

    Despite a recent injury, Bowens has appeared regularly on AEW programming as part of The Acclaimed.

    Nyla Rose is a transgender woman and was the first transgender World champion in a major American promotion after capturing the Women’s World Championship in February 2020.

    Diamante is openly gay and is in a relationship with Impact Wrestling star and former Knockouts Tag Team Champion Kiera Hogan.

    • Kiss uses both he/him and she/her pronouns. For consistency and given that Kiss identifies as transfeminine, the author has used she/her pronouns throughout this article.
    Sonny Kiss Opens Up About Lack Of TV Time In AEW