At TNA Genesis, Tessa Blanchard defeated Jordynne Grace in the controversial wrestler’s first match for the promotion since 2020. Many fans have been opposed to Blanchard’s return to TNA, but that won’t stop the former Impact World Champion.

On Instagram, Blanchard had a message at those fans angry to see her back in TNA. The second-generation wrestler told those mad to “just wait” and that “This is only the beginning.”

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A post shared by TESSA BLANCHARD (@tessa_blanchard)

Tessa Blanchard Controversy

Tessa Blanchard has faced significant controversy in professional wrestling due to allegations of racism and bullying, which have had lasting effects on her career and public image.

Allegations of Racism: In 2020, several wrestlers accused Blanchard of making racially insensitive remarks and using a racial slur during a 2017 incident involving wrestler La Rosa Negra. Negra claimed Blanchard spat on her and directed a racial slur at her while in Japan. Although Blanchard denied these accusations, the claims triggered widespread backlash within the wrestling community.

Bullying Accusations: Alongside the racism allegations, Blanchard was accused by multiple wrestlers, including WWE’s Chelsea Green, of exhibiting bullying behavior backstage. Wrestlers from promotions such as AEW, Impact Wrestling, and NWA voiced similar complaints, cementing her reputation as a divisive figure among her peers.

Career Impact: These controversies erupted as Blanchard was poised to make history as the first woman to win the Impact Wrestling World Championship. Despite the achievement, the allegations overshadowed her victory. Later in 2020, Blanchard was stripped of the title and her contract terminated. Although Impact Wrestling cited contractual disagreements, the allegations significantly influenced public and professional perceptions of her.

Efforts to Reconcile: Blanchard has made some attempts to repair her reputation, including a public reconciliation with La Rosa Negra in 2023. Photos of the two together suggested they had resolved their issues. However, despite some support from figures like TNA’s Matt Hardy, Blanchard continues to face criticism for not fully addressing or taking accountability for the allegations.

While Blanchard is currently active in wrestling, including with TNA Wrestling, which seems intent on showcasing her as a leading talent, it remains uncertain whether fans and the broader wrestling community will fully embrace her again. For now, she continues to focus on her in-ring performances amid ongoing debates about her place in the industry.

Tessa Blanchard Claims False Narrative Was Spread by Ex-TNA Individual

On the latest edition of the Insight podcast, WWE/TNA Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently opened up about his battles with addiction, his road to recovery, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. After joining WWE in 1999, Angle quickly became one of the promotion’s top stars, though painkiller addiction later in his career plagued the Olympic Gold Medalist for years.

The Destructive Grip of Addiction

At the height of his addiction, Angle’s reliance on painkillers became overwhelming. Like many wrestlers, Angle began using painkillers to manage injuries sustained from years in the ring. However, the pressures of maintaining a high-performance career in the ring quickly led to Angle abusing painkillers.

“I was taking 65 painkillers a day, about 2,200 pills a month. My addiction overtook my life.”

His addiction not only jeopardized his career but also strained his personal life. Angle revealed that the turning point came in 2012 when his wife, Giovanna, issued an ultimatum that saved his life: “Go to rehab, or I’m taking the kids and leaving.”

Kurt Angle Reflects on Career, Wishes He’d Retired a Decade Earlier

A Life-Altering Decision

Confronted with the possibility of losing his family, Angle knew he had to change. With his wife’s ultimatum, Angle entered rehab, marking the beginning of his journey toward sobriety. Reflecting on the experience, Angle shared credit to his family for making him change. “It wasn’t just about me anymore. I had to fight for them.” Since completing rehab, Angle has achieved an inspiring milestone: 14 years of sobriety. He considers this achievement to be the pinnacle of his life.

“I’ve been clean and sober for 14 years now. That’s my greatest accomplishment,” he said.

Rebuilding and Redefining His Legacy

Angle’s sobriety not only allowed him to repair his personal relationships but also to rebuild his professional reputation. In the years following his recovery, the Hall of Famer has become an advocate for addiction awareness. He has used his platform to share his story, hoping to inspire others facing similar struggles to seek help.

In 2016, Angle launched the Angle Strong brand to help those battle with addiction to substances. Looking back, Angle is grateful for the second chance given to him. For the Olympian, his true legacy lies not in his wrestling accolades but in his resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

Kurt Angle Reflects on Legendary Rivals Chris Benoit and Brock Lesnar

A Grateful Outlook on the Future

Clean and sober with a reputation as a true great in the ring, Angle hopes that his story serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with addiction. “It’s never too late to change,” he said. For Kurt Angle, his greatest victory is not found in the wrestling ring but in his triumph over addiction and his ability to reclaim his life.

Check out the full interview:

Kurt Angle recently opened up about his career which he wishes he had ended his in-ring career a decade earlier. On the Insight podcast, the Olympic gold medalist admitted that continuing to wrestle into his 40s took a toll on his body and affected the way he wanted fans to remember him.

“I wish I would have finished my career in WWE 10 years shorter in WWE or TNA… So in other words, instead of 20 years, I think 10 would have been enough and I think I would have been okay.”

Instead of retiring in 2009, which would’ve marked a decade since his Survivor Series 1999 debut, Angle wrestled for another ten years before his final match at WrestleMania 35 in 2019. On the podcast, Angle reflected on watching his matches and knowing he had to go.

“I didn’t like what I saw. I didn’t want the fans remembering me as a broken down Kurt Angle. I wanted them to remember me when I was in my prime.”

Had Angle retired when he wishes, fans would’ve lost out on much of the Olympian’s career in TNA Wrestling. In 2017, Angle returned to action as part of WWE and would be part of Ronda Rousey’s debut match the following year. During his return, would work with names including The Shield, Chad Gable, and Baron Corbin.

Kurt Angle Believes Final Match Was A Waste, Baron Corbin Responds

While Angle may have regrets about how long he stayed active, his legacy as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time remains intact. Fans will always remember the intensity, passion, and dedication he brought to the squared circle with many still regarding Angle as the greatest wrestling athlete of all time.

TNA Wrestling delivered with its Genesis 2025, which saw plenty of notable names appear from WWE NXT as part of a multi-year partnership. Nathan Frazer and Axiom were among those who ‘crossed the line’ and fans could soon see them share the ring with The Hardys.

During Genesis, it was announced that Fraxiom will defend their NXT Tag Team Titles against The Rascalz on Thursday’s live episode of TNA Impact. If Fraxiom retains their titles, The Hardys appear eager to step up as their next challengers. In an online promo, Matt Hardy shared that he and Jeff, already TNA’s World Tag Team Champions, are coming from Fraxiom.

“The Hardys, we are forever. Fraxiom, I noticed you were out there tonight. You’ve got a couple of titles too. We’d love to go on another expedition of gold. So maybe we’ll see you around.”

Throughout their storied career, The Hardys have captured numerous tag team championships across the pro wrestling world. Between WWE, TNA, and Ring of Honor, Matt and Jeff are 13-time World Tag Team Champions, in addition to holding titles from smaller promotions. Fraxiom are in their second reign as NXT Tag Team Champions, and their efforts with the gold earned the pair the ‘Tag Team Of the Year’ award during the recent NXT End Of Year Awards.

The Hardys are considered one of the greatest tag teams of all time, but the NXT Tag Team Titles remain a prize they have yet to claim. With both Matt and Jeff having discussed possibly wrestling in a WWE ring again as part of the TNA partnership, fans are excited to see the brothers potentially holding the NXT Tag Team Championships.

Joe Hendry Calls Out John Cena For TNA Vs. WWE Match

Malakai Black has been a part of AEW since 2021, but reports are growing that his time with the company is ending. Amid talk of an imminent WWE return, there was a potential tease for the former NXT Champion during the January 20, edition of Monday Night Raw.

In a backstage segment, Chad Gable seeked the Judgment Day’s help to deal with his ‘lucha problem.’ Dominik Mysterio was willing to help and offered Mysterio a piece of paper with the name of someone who’d help. While the name wasn’t shown, Gable was pleased and proclaimed that he’d be trained in the ‘Dark Arts’ of Lucha Libre.

Gable’s comments about learning the ‘dark arts’ has led some to speculate that this is a tease for Malakai Black. Though the Dutch wrestler is not a luchador, he does own and operate the ‘Dark Arts’ wrestling school and gym alongside his wife Zelina Vega. In 2022, Black said that WWE’s Performance Center helped inspire ‘Dark Arts’ saying that the Orlando facility uses a “system that works really well with the correct discipline.”

AEW Teases House of Black’s Future Without Malakai Black

Ideas for Black’s return to WWE are already being discussed, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has reported, with fans expecting a big push should he come back. Several AEW alum have received notable pushes in WWE including Ethan Page, Jade Cargill, and reigning Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Malakai Black as anticipation grows about a potential return to WWE.

The go-home episode of WWE Monday Night Raw before the Royal Rumble will be a star-studded show with plenty announced. During this week’s show, Michael Cole shared that Logan Paul will appear on the January 27. show. Paul appeared in the crowd during Raw’s debut episode on Netflix but fans can expect much more from the former U.S. Champion during the upcoming show.

Goldberg Set for WWE Raw This Month Ahead of Final Match

Logan Paul In WWE

Paul debuted for WWE in 2021 and signed with the promotion the following year. During a launch event for Raw on Netflix, the Maverick confirmed that he had signed with the red brand.

Notable Matches and Moments:

• WrestleMania 37 (April 2021): Paul made his first WWE appearance as a guest of Sami Zayn and was present ringside during Zayn’s match against Kevin Owens. Post-match, Paul was on the receiving end of Owens’ signature Stunner.
• WrestleMania 38 (April 2022): Teaming with The Miz, Paul secured a victory over Rey and Dominik Mysterio. However, The Miz betrayed Paul immediately after their win, delivering a Skull-Crushing Finale.
• Crown Jewel 2022: In a high-profile match, Paul challenged Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Paul was unable to dethrone the Tribal Chief, but delivered a strong performance and showed he could hang with WWE’s top star.

• Royal Rumble 2023: Entering at #29, Paul had a memorable mid-air collision with Ricochet, a moment that garnered significant attention. He eliminated Seth “Freakin” Rollins before being eliminated by Cody Rhodes.
• WrestleMania 39: Paul faced Seth Rollins in a singles match, which also featured an appearance by his business partner KSI. Paul was defeated by Rollins in this encounter.
• Crown Jewel 2023: Paul captured his first WWE championship by defeating Rey Mysterio for the United States Championship, using brass knuckles to secure the win.
• WrestleMania XL: Paul successfully defended the United States Championship in a triple threat match against Randy Orton and Kevin Owens, with assistance from YouTuber IShowSpeed.
• SummerSlam 2024: Paul’s reign as U.S. Champion came to an end thanks to the ever-popular LA Knight, marking the Megastar’s first championship on the main roster.

The January 20 episode of WWE RAW took place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas and saw the red brand continue on the road to the Royal Rumble. With the event set for February 1, in Indianapolis, CM Punk laid out his goals for the upcoming PLE.

During the second hour of RAW, CM Punk joined Jackie Redmond for an interview. Punk called himself a history maker, highlighting that he headlined the first-ever RAW on Netflix. Punk stressed the importance of staying relevant, stating, “It’s all about what have you done for me lately,” and assured the audience that he continues to prove himself.

He acknowledged the high stakes and pressure leading up to the Royal Rumble, adding that he thrives in such moments and believes nobody can beat him when he’s at his best.

Looking ahead to the Royal Rumble, Punk confidently stated that he “can’t see” John Cena eliminating him from the match. He also took a shot at Roman Reigns, claiming the “OTC” needed him at WarGames. Not finished, Punk made a bold claim about Hulk Hogan should the controversial Hall of Famer enter the Royal Rumble.

“You put Hulk Hogan in the Royal Rumble, I’ll throw his dusty ass over the top rope and kill Hulkamania forever”

Punk’s comment got a loud cheer from the crowd, another sign that wrestling fans are tired of Hogan, who was resoundingly booed at his last appearance. As for Punk, he aims to win his first Royal Rumble match, a victory that’d bring him one step closer to his dream of headlining WrestleMania.

On the January 13, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, Penta made his debut with a hard-fought victory over Chad Gable. In a behind the scenes video, Penta shared that the show was “the best night of my life.”

When asked what’s next for him, WWE’s newest Superstar wasn’t picky about where this next chapter of his career will take him.

“Everything. I come here to give my best every show, every night, everything. I want to win everything here. I finally achieved my dream of being in WWE and today I don’t plan on quitting. I’ve come to win everything there is to win in WWE.”

Penta had been a part of AEW since 2019 prior to his arrival on Monay Night Raw earlier this month. In AEW, he became a Tag Team Champion with Rey Fenix and a Trios Champion alongside Fenix and Pac. Though many fans hoped to see Fenix and Penta leave AEW together, time added to Fenix’s contract prevented that from happening.

Rey Fenix Alludes To “Huge Injustice” In AEW Amid Hiatus

Penta’s debut is just the latest success story for an AEW alum in WWE. Cody Rhodes returned to WWE in 2022 to become the company’s top star while names including Jade Cargill and Ethan Page have seen championship success. It remains to be seen if Penta’s debut encourages anybody else in AEW to join WWE, but in the meantime, the masked star is ready to do it all as a Superstar.

New TNA World Champion Joe Hendry is ready to take on all challengers, with WWE legend John Cena at the top of his list. Speaking to Busted Open Radio in his first interview since his victory at Genesis 2025, Hendry explained why he’s setting his sights on the 16-time world champion.

“[We are] in an era where anything is happen. And just before Genesis, Triple H tweeted about the show, Shawn Michaels tweeted the show, and John Cena posted the TNA logo on his Instagram. What kind of representative would I be for TNA if I didn’t call out John Cena?”

John Cena in TNA

A potential showdown with Cena would mean Hendry stepping up to the mic against Big Match John, a challenge that Hendry is “1000%” he can handle. While Hendry’s songs and promos have earned him a strong following, the TNA World Champion believes his best work is yet to come.

“I honestly believe that people haven’t seen what I can truly do on the microphone yet… and to me, John Cena is in the top-top echelon of talkers ever.”

John Cena’s Farewell Tour

Cena kicked off his farewell tour during WWE Raw’s debut on Netflix earlier this month by declaring for the Men’s Royal Rumble match. As part of his final year in the ring, Cena is expected to make between 30 to 40 WWE appearances. In addition to the Royal Rumble, he has been confirmed for Elimination Chamber on March 1, with plans underway for a major match at WrestleMania 41.

PCO had been a member of the TNA Wrestling roster for years, which is why his actions at The People vs. GCW event shocked fans. After destroying the TNA Digital Media Championship at GCW’s latest event, PCO has now addressed his surprising actions.

On X, PCO alluded to a state of victimhood, claiming that “People don’t care for victims, they care for the ones who stand up and Monsters their way through.” In a follow-up post, PCO shared his respect for many in TNA, while making it clear that he was less impressed with the company’s new management. He credited Scott D’Amore as the “architect” of TNA and advised people to gather all the facts before passing judgment.

Sources within GCW told Fightful that PCO “went into business for himself,” leaving those in TNA Wrestling shocked. PCO was reportedly set to finish with TNA at the upcoming tapings in San Antonio, though as things stand, he is not expected back.

As PCO moves forward, it remains to be seen what the future holds for him in professional wrestling. Whatever’s to come, PCO’s time with TNA Wrestling reached a violent end this week with the destruction of the Digital Media Championship.

Britt Baker has not appeared for AEW since November 2024, when she defeated Penelope Ford on Dynamite. New details have emerged regarding her absence from television and her reportedly strained relationship with individuals within the company.

According to Wade Keller of PWTorch, Baker is “wildly unpopular in the locker room,” with one source stating, “no one ever wants to see her come back.” The report further claims that Baker has “always had a reputation for being difficult to work with,” but the situation has allegedly worsened in recent months.

In August 2024, Baker was briefly suspended from AEW following an incident with MJF related to his storyline involving Alicia Atout. Keller notes that a “specific situation recently,” separate from the MJF issue, was “the straw that broke the camel’s back.”

Ultimately, it will be AEW President Tony Khan’s decision whether Baker returns to the company—if at all. Keller’s report suggests that Khan “might have her in the same category as some other wrestlers where they just don’t get phone calls and don’t get called in.” Additionally, Keller clarified that Baker’s breakup with former boyfriend Adam Cole is unrelated to her absence from programming, despite speculation.

Baker’s situation is the latest in a series of backstage issues within AEW, which have cast the company in an unfavorable light. Rey Fenix recently alluded to “inhumane treatment” during his tenure under contract, implying that the company ignored his requests for medical assistance. Meanwhile, Ricky Starks, once considered a future top star in AEW, has not appeared on television since March 2023—a decision that has left both fans and Starks himself puzzled.

Baker was once the top star of AEW’s women’s division and held the AEW Women’s World Championship from May 2021 to March 2022. However, her future with AEW now appears increasingly uncertain as the women’s roster continues to flourish in her absence.

Baron Corbin Defends Tony Khan’s Contract Practices

Britt Baker’s AEW Accolades

Britt Baker has been a cornerstone of AEW’s women’s division since its inception, solidifying her legacy as one of the company’s most successful homegrown stars.

The Pillar

As the first woman to sign with AEW in January 2019, Baker’s career has paralleled the promotion’s growth, earning her recognition as the “rock” of the women’s division over the past five years. From championship triumphs to historic matches, Baker’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping AEW’s identity.

Championships and Iconic Matches

Baker’s reign as AEW Women’s World Champion remains a highlight of her career, lasting an impressive 290 days between May 2021 and March 2022. During her time at the top, she defended her title against a diverse roster of challengers, including Nyla Rose, Kris Statlander, Tay Conti, and Riho.

In addition, her victory in the 2022 Owen Hart Cup Tournament further cemented her reputation as one of AEW’s most decorated talents. Beyond titles, Baker also made history as the first woman to main event AEW Dynamite in her iconic Lights Out match against Thunder Rosa, a bout widely regarded as a landmark moment for women’s wrestling.

Uncertainty

As AEW continues to evolve, Baker’s future with the company remains uncertain. Despite recent high-profile matches, such as her TBS Championship challenge against Mercedes Moné at All In London 2024, questions loom about her next steps. Regardless of what the future holds, Britt Baker’s legacy as an AEW original and a trailblazer for the women’s division is firmly established.

10 Matches We Need to See If Britt Baker Jumps to WWE

Joe Hendry’s World Championship win at Genesis is just the start of big things to come for TNA, the new champion shared after the show. At TNA’s first pay-per-view event, Hendry won the title from Nic Nemeth, the culmination of a long road to the top for the viral Scottish wrestler. Speaking after Genesis went off the air, Hendry gave praise to the Tna locker room.

“I’m so proud to be a part of this locker room. It is the greatest honor and privilege to share a locker room with the individuals in the back, and you have no idea how many of them have gone out of their way to help me get to where I wanted.”

Looking to the future, Hendry vowed to make sure fans still believed in him as TNA World Champion, saying it’s the audience who will help push TNA to a new level in 2025.

“The next order of business is for me to talk to Santino because my friends, we are just getting started. This title reign, I’m gonna give every ounce of being that I have.”

Hendry ended the festivities in Garland, Texas with a TNA chant that the fans joined in on before he said it’d been an honor and a privilege to compete at the show. With Hendry now sitting atop the TNA roster, fans are excited to see what the new year will bring TNA Wrestling and whether it can match the success the promotion saw in 2024.

Jordynne Grace Given Emotional Send-Off After TNA Genesis

H/T – Fightful

At The People Vs. GCW, Allie Katch suffered a serious injury in her match with Effy that brought an abrupt end to the contest. The match was to determine the challenger for Mance Warner’s GCW World Championship and the show saw Effy compete against Warner in the main event.

Learn More About Effy Vs. Warner For the GCW World Championship

In an update, Steph De Lander shared that Katch had been taken to a nearby hospital where doctors confirmed that her leg is broken in two places. A GoFundMe has been launched to help cover costs that has already raked in over $8,000 of its $13,000 goal. Notable names have been donating include AEW’s Kris Statlander and Deonna Purrazzo.

In an update, De Lander shared that Allie will be undergoing surgery in the next couple of days. She also expressed gratitude to those who have already donated to the GoFundMe.

Brett Lauderdale, GCW’s owner, also took to social media to confirm that this injury is not part of a storyline, and shared positive vibes for Katch.

Katch’s injury demonstrates the risks pro wrestlers put themselves in every single time they step in the ring. We at SEScoops would like to wish Allie a full and speedy recovery.

At TNA Genesis, Mike Santana defeated Josh Alexander in a brutal I-Quit match that ended with the Walking Weapon uttering those two dreaded words. After the match, the two shared a sign of respect, and Alexander heralded Santana as the new standard in TNA Wrestling. Alexander then went even further, declaring that he had not just quit the match, but that he was quitting TNA.

Though Alexander quit TNA, fans have seemingly not seen the last of him. After the show, Santino Marella, TNA’s Director of Operation, said that Alexander must attend the upcoming episode of TNA iMPACT.

Last month, Alexander shared on the Insight podcast that he will become a free agent on February 15. The Canadian shared that he is equally nervous and excited, as this will be his first time as a free agent in wrestling. Alexander shared that he is eyeing WWE and AEW as future prospects once he is on the market.

With Alexander’s days in TNA numbered, fans are excited to see where the former World Champion lands. In November 2024, Alexander announced his retirement from independent wrestling, suggesting that his future in wrestling will be as part of a major promotion. Joining WWE would allow Alexander the chance to reunite with Ethan Page as the pair dominated in Impact as ‘The North’ before Josh went solo.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Josh Alexander, who is ready to make an impact outside of TNA Wrestling.

At TNA Genesis 2025, Jordynne Grace lost to Tessa Blanchard in the first match back in TNA for the controversial star. After the show, Grace was given quite the sendoff by those on the TNA roster. The Juggernaut was presented with an autographed replica of the Impact Knockouts championship before having cake shoved in her face.

This emotional moment comes amid reports that Grace has finished her time with TNA Wrestling. Last month, Grace shared a cryptic ’29 days’ message, which fans speculated was counting down to the end of her contract. Fightful Select reports that Grace is effectively done with TNA and most expect Genesis to have been her last date there. The report adds that Gail Kim produced Grace’s match with Blanchard, who was among those who attended the send-off.

With Grace’s time with TNA seemingly in the rear-view, attention now turns to what’s next for the former Knockouts World Champion. Many fans have predicted that Grace will soon arrive in WWE as a full-time Superstar after her appearances in 2024 proved immensely popular. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Jordynne Grace and what’s next for her in this post-TNA chapter of her career.

In the days leading up to TNA Genesis 2025, it was teased that the show would see involvement from WWE NXT as part of a multi-year partnership between the two sides. This certainly proved to be the case with multiple names from the silver brand appearing in Garland, Texas.

Before the show, Arianna Grace served in her role as the offical liasion between WWE NXT and TNA Wrestling and brought out Ashante ‘Thee Adonis. The NXT Superstar issued an open challenge to the TNA roster, which was answered by Jake Something. Despite a valiant effort by Adonis, it was Something who got the win.

During the show, TNA World Tag Team Champions The Hardyz put their titles on the line against The Rascalz. During the match, NXT Tag Team Champions Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer & Axiom) arrived to get a better look at the action. Things turned ugly when The Rascalz attacked Fraxiom, but the match would end with Jeff Hardy getting the pin over Trey Miguel to retain.

In the brutal Clockwork Orange match, Masha Slamovich retained her TNA Knockouts World Championship against Rosemary. After the match, Cora Jade showed up and gestured that she wants a shot at the gold. Slamovich was featured in the crowd during the latest WWE NXT ahead of Jade’s match with Kelani Jordan, and traded some barbs on X with Jade after the match.

TNA’s multi-year partnership promises plenty of exciting crossovers with WWE, and that has already been the case. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on this partnership and to see who ever crosses the line.

Joe Hendry Wins The TNA World Championship at Genesis

Joe Hendry’s pursuit of the TNA World Championship culminated at this week’s Genesis with the viral scottish star’s victory in the main event. Hendry defeated Nic Nemeth to win the gold, and after the match, celebrated with his fans and his parents who were in the crowd.

Hendry’s win has been a long-time coming for arguably the most popular star in TNA and one of the most popular names in wrestling today. Joe challenged for the title at Slammiversary in a match won by Nic Nemeth. At Bound for Glory, Hendry challenged Nemeth for the title but interference by John Layfield cost him the match.

These previous setbacks had led to fans questioning if TNA would ever put the title on Hendry or if they had failed to pull the trigger in time to capitalize on Joe’s viral popularity. The title marks Hendry’s first World Championship in a major promotion and he is a former TNA Digital Media Champion.

Now as TNA World Champion, the question remains as to what’s next for Hendry, who fans have predicted will compete in the Men’s Royal Rumble match on February 1. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Joe Hendry after the new TNA World Champion massive win at Genesis.

PCO made his views on TNA and the promotion’s Digital Media Championship very clear in an appearance this week for GCW. At The People Vs. GCW, PCO, destroyed the title and spoke about selling out the biggest house in TNA history. The show cut to a break during PCO’s comments, and when the event returned, the veteran had left the ring. This segment took place just as TNA began the main card of their Genesis pay-per-view event.

PCO had held the Digital Media Championship since Slammiversary, where he defeated AJ Francis for the gold. The Canadian veteran had been a part of TNA since 2022. Previously, he had been with Ring of Honor but parted in late 2021 prior to Tony Khan’s purchase of the promotion.

This destruction of the title was not part of a storyline, PW Insider reports, but instead PCO airing his genuine frustrations at TNA Wrestling. TNA has yet to address the situation and PCO himself has not commented on what the future of his promotion will look like. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on this developing situation.

AEW fans witnessed the final chapter of The Acclaimed at AEW Collision: Maximum Carnage, as Anthony Bowens and Max Caster offically split. After weeks of escalating tension, Bowens turned his back on Max Caster, opting to align with Billy Gunn instead during the latest episode.

Reflecting on the end of The Acclaimed, Caster shared that his desire for personal growth and pointed the finger of blame squarely at Gunn.

“Anthony Bowens is my best friend for life. I know he’s hardheaded, and ever since he started listening to Billy Gunn, he’s been a real stubborn guy. Billy is a bad influence—has been since the ’90s.”

Caster shared that his efforts to grow led to him asking the group to quit scissoring, a request both Bowens and Gunn rejected. The self professed best wrestler alive compared his parting from The Acclaimed to a passenger fleeing a sinking ship.

“That life raft was me. I found self-worth, self-confidence. I love myself, and I think that’s a good thing.”

The Acclaimed began teaming in 2020 and Caster and Bowens captured the AEW World Tag Team Championships in 2022. The following year, the pair and Gunn won the AEW Trios Championships, titles the faction would hold longer than any other group. Now, Bowens and Caster will have to forge separate paths in AEW as one of the promotion’s most popular teams has come to an end.

Could UFC fighter Belal Muhammad compete in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match? According to CM Punk, it’s not out of the question. Backstage at UFC 311, the pair were interviewed by Cathy Kelley. When the WWE interviewer brought up the possibility of Muhammad entering the 2025 Royal Rumble, the fighter responded, “You never know what’s going to happen.” However, if Muhammad does compete, don’t expect an alliance with Punk, who made “no promises” about not tossing him over the top rope on February 1.

Punk has already confirmed his participation in this year’s Royal Rumble match, a contest in which he was the runner-up last year. Despite his decorated wrestling career, Punk has yet to secure a Royal Rumble victory and hopes that this year will finally bring him one step closer to headlining WrestleMania, another feat he’s yet to achieve.

Learn More About CM Punk’s WWE Royal Rumble Past

Belal Muhammad is the latest UFC star to show interest in transitioning to WWE. In recent years, fighters like Conor McGregor have teased a WWE crossover, though McGregor’s multiple controversies make such a move increasingly unlikely. Similarly, Oban Elliot hinted at an appearance at WWE Bash in Berlin last year, but that did not materialize. With WWE and UFC now united under the TKO umbrella, the potential for crossover between the two organizations is greater than ever. Whether Muhammad will step out of the Octagon and into the squared circle on February 1 remains to be seen.

Rumors continue to circulate that fans have seen the last of Malakai Black in an AEW ring, months after fans last saw the former Trios Champion on programming. On Instagram, AEW shared a hype video for Brody King, Buddy Matthews and Julia Hart. Not only did the video omit Black, but the caption avoided mentioning the House of Black stable by name, and similarly avoided mentioning the group’s namesake.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by All Elite Wrestling (@aew)

This interesting post comes amid reports that Black is finishing his time with AEW. On TV, Buddy Matthews has been encouraged to break away from Black’s control, and pursue a singles run in 2025. Brody King has filed a trademark for the term ‘Hounds Of Hell’ which many are seeing as a new stable name that demonstrates AEW is moving forward without Black being a factor in plans.

The Dutch wrestler last competed for AEW at November’s Full Gar pay-per-view. At the event, He teamed with Brody King for a fatal four-way tag team championship match but the duo were unsuccessful. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Malakai Black’s future in wrestling, as AEW continues to hint that fans have seen the last of the former NXT Champion in an AEW ring.

Tony Khan has acknowledged the legendary career of Christopher Daniels following what is believed to be Daniels’ final match in AEW. The AEW President took to social media to express his gratitude to Daniels, who faced Hangman Page in a brutal Texas Death Match at AEW Collision: Maximum Carnage.

Daniels was busted open early and, despite his resilience, was unable to withstand Hangman Page’s relentless offense. The match ended after Hangman delivered a Tombstone Piledriver on a chair, followed by a Dead Eye on another chair, and concluded with a Buckshot Lariat to the back of Daniels’ head, keeping him down for the 10-count. Adding insult to injury, Page also used the Angel’s Wings, a move Daniels used for years throughout his storied career, after the match.

Following the tapings of Collision earlier this week, it was reported that those in AEW were under the impression that this was Daniels’ final match. With Khan publicly praising Daniels for his efforts in his match with Page, it cerainly appears that fans have seen the last of the Fallen Angel in the ring.

Daniels’ lengthy career has seen him compete all over the world and is best known for his runs in Ring of Honor and TNA Wrestling. Though Daniels’ days wrestling are up, he remains a pivotal part of AEW as the company’s Head of Talent Relations.

The end of MVP’s career in the ring is in sight for the former WWE U.S. Champion, but he’s going to give his all while he can.

On Instagram, MVP shared that the “clock is taking on my in-ring career” and aded that “I don’t have much time left.” Ending on a positive not, MVP vowed to “give you everything I’ve got until I finally reach the final match.”

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MVP made his AEW in-ring debut during this week’s Dynamite: Maximum Carnage, where he, Shelton Benjamin, and Bobby Lashley defeated Mark Briscoe and Private Party. This wasn’t just MVP’s first match for AEW, but his first wrestling match on a major televised promotion since competing on WWE Raw in July 2022.

There’s no word on when MVP will wrestle again for AEW, if at all, but the veteran has certainly proven himself as a manager in recent years. Recently, the Hurt Syndicate expressed their desire to hold the AEW World Tag Team Titles, currently held by Private Party. Lashley has also expressed a desire to become AEW World Champion, and after MVP led him to the WWE title in 2021, such a win remains a genuine possibility.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on MVP, as the AEW star is giving his all in the ring before he hangs up his boots for good.

MVP: WWE Planned to Turn Hurt Business into Nation of Domination 2.0

Could John Cena’s farewell to in-ring competition see him compete in TNA Wrestling? World Champion Nic Nemeth certainly hopes so. Speaking to The Takedown on SI, Nemeth said that Cena appearing for the promotion would be special, no matter who he worked with.

“As much as I would like to hog it, no matter who was in that moment with him, that would be cool as hell, because he’s done so much for so many.”

Nemeth compared Cena to Hiroshi Tanahashi, who is also on a retirement tour. With “everyone dying to get in the ring” with the icon, Nemeth believes Cena in TNA would be groundbreaking for the promotion.

“It’d be game-changing for [TNA]. It would just help us one more notch at kicking ass, if we got John here on that deal, on that partnership.”

Cena kicked off his farewell tour on WWE Raw’s debut on Netflix by declaring himself for the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match. In addition to the February 1, event, Cena has been announced for March’s Elimination Chamber PLE as well as WrestleMania 41. Several Superstars have put themselves forward as potential opponents, including The Miz, Randy Orton, and Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker.

WWE and TNA have announced a multi-year partnership, meaning fans can’t count out an appearance by John Cena in the Impact Zone. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on John Cena and what will be a massive send-off to the Greatest Of All Time.

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels will have a hero’s welcome when he appears at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event this month in his native San Antonio, Texas. On this week’s SmackDown, it was announced that Michaels will oversee a contract signing between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens at the January 25, event. Owens and Rhodes will hand-over their respective WWE Championships which will be on the line at the Royal Rumble in a ladder match.

Rhodes and Owens have been at odds since WWE Bad Blood, where Owens attacked Cody following the show. Owens has claimed that Rhodes turned on him by agreeing to team with Roman Reigns. The issues between the pair grew uglier after Saturday Night’s Main Event, where Owens delivered a package piledriver to Rhodes after the show.

Jacob Fatu Match Announced For WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

Michaels won’t be afraid to lay down the law in his hometown at Saturday Night’s Main Event. The WWE Hall of Famer already serves as the head of WWE NXT and hasn’t been afraid to put his hands on talent if they cross the line. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from the Heart Break Kid ahead of his exciting appearance at the January 25 special event.