Triple H played a crucial role in the Montreal Screwjob, going as far as to put forth the idea, according to WWE’s current Chief Content Officer.
The infamous moment at Survivor Series 1997 saw Bret Hart lose the WWF Championship to Shawn Michaels, despite not submitting to the Sharpshooter. The plan, as shared to Hart, was for the match to end in a no-contest, and the Canadian would vacate the title the next night on WWF Raw before departing for WCW.
On The Roommates podcast, the Game recalled the meeting backstage between Michaels and Vince McMahon, who feared Hart would refuse to give up the gold. With Hart refusing to lose to Michaels in Canada, it was Triple H who put forward that Hart should do ‘business’ one way or another.
“I was the least important person in the room at the time, but I just said, ‘F*** that, if he won’t do business, do it for him.‘ That started a conversation that led to the Montreal screw job.”
The act would sour Hart’s relationship with WWE, which would also be damaged following his brother Owen’s tragic passing at Over the Edge 1999. Outside of a Hall of Fame appearance in 2006, it wouldn’t be until January 2010 that Hart would make a return.
Nowadays, Hart makes occasional appearances for WWE, including earlier this year in his native Canada. Nevertheless, the Montreal Screwjob will forever be a mark on the Hitman’s career, for which he has WWE’s Chief Content Officer to thank.
There’s no shortage of celebrities wanting to be a part of WWE WrestleMania 41 in April of next year, according to WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque. On The Roommates Show, Levesque shared that the 2025 two-night event has caught the attention of those outside of the world of pro wrestling.
“I have a celebrity list a mile long for people that want to do something for WrestleMania in Vegas. We just don’t have the real estate to do it with them, so we’ll pick the biggest ones.”
Using celebrities that “make sense storyline-wise” will also factor into Levesque’s decision-making process and it’s “incredible” just how many stars want to be involved. Next year’s show will be Levesque’s second time having full control over WWE’s most significant show of the years. WrestleMania 40 was the Game’s first time having full control of the show, following Vince McMahon’s resignation from WWE in January 2024.
Celebrity involvement in WrestleMania has been the case since the first event in 1985, which saw megastars including Liberace and Muhammad Ali participate on the show. At this year’s event, Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson got involved with the show, while Lil Wayne performed ahead of the Jey Uso Vs. Jimmy Uso showdown.
It remains to be seen which celebrities have a role to play at WrestleMania 41, but the show won’t be lacking in star power. WWE WrestleMania 41 will take place on April 19, and April 20, from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, and will be WWE’s first WrestleMania to stream on Netflix for fans outside the United States.
WWE Superstar Rhea Ripley has fired back at an ongoing meme about careers in McDonald’s, asking “Who’s the joke really on?” The meme sees AI-created images of notable names dressed as employees of the fast-food chain. On X, Ripley argued that the idea of making people look bad for working at McDonald’s didn’t hold much weight.
Are we supposed to be offended by these AI McDonald’s memes? McDonald’s workers just out there trying to make a honest living, while you all scream jobless. So who’s the “joke” really on? ?
The response to this latest viral social media trend has been mixed. While some find it funny, others, such as Ripley, see it as an attempt to mock working people. In the comments several fans agreed with Ripley’s response, appreciating those who work in a job to earn an honest living.
On WWE TV, Ripley has been continuing her feud with Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, though won’t be the Judgment Day star’s next challenger. Instead, Morgan will defend her title at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event this weekend against IYO SKY. This week’s Raw went off the air with both Morgan and SKY clutching the Women’s World Championship, as both women have their sights on the Women’s World Title.
It’ll be up to the fans to decide when Rey Mysterio will retire from the ring, according to the WWE Hall of Famer/former World Heavyweight Champion. This week, Mysterio reunited with Kurt Angle to watch their Saturday Night’s Main Event match from 2006, where the WrestleMania 22 opponents teamed with Randy Orton to face Triple H and John Cena. When Angle asked Kurt about his retirement plans, Mysterio shared that the final decision wasn’t up to him.
“Well, I’ll let the fans decide.”
Mysterio turned 50 years old this week and has spoken multiple times about retirement in the past. These include:
While Rey has spoken a lot about retiring, the masked legend signed a new five-year deal with WWE in late 2023, which should keep him with the promotion until the end of 2028. When that contract does expire, Mysterio will be 54, far past his previously planned retirement age.
Stau tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Rey Mysterio, as the Hall of Famer continues to carve his legacy in the ring before he hands up his boots and mask for good.
Carlos Silva has been named the new President of Anthem Sports Group, and will oversee the operations of TNA Wrestling going forward. In his role, Silva will answer directly to Anthem President and CEO Leonard Asper. In a statement, Silva shared his excitement for this new chapter.
“Anthem Sports Group’s diverse offerings represent a wide range of exciting opportunities for growth and development. TNA Wrestling, Invicta FC, and Fight Network are each poised to make a major impact in their respective arenas.”
Before joining Anthem, Silva has worked with several sports properties, including the World Series of Fighting/Professional Fighters League. Outside of the ring, he has worked for the Universal Sports Network, and WorldTeamTennis among other parties.
Behind the cameras, Anthem’s termination of Scott D’Amore shortly after Hard to Kill was heavily criticized, as D’Amore had helped steer TNA through turbulent times. TNA’s roster even crafted a letter to Anthem, encouraging the company to reconsider, but to no avail. D’Amore, a veteran of wrestling for decades, was replaced by Anthem’s own President at the time Anthony Cicione, a move that only furthered tensions.
Now, it’ll be Carlos Silva who takes the reigns as Anthem President, a role that’ll see him work closely with TNA Wrestling as well as Anthem’s other properties. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from TNA, including this week’s Final Resolution event.
The WWE Universe may have seen the last of Logan Paul in the ring now that the former United States Champion is a father. On the ImPaulsive podcast, Paul shared his excitement for WrestleMania 41 in April 2025.
“That s*** is crazy. WrestleMania in Allegiant Stadium, 100,000 people? Yeah, it’s going to go crazy.”
When asked if he’ll be back in time in the ring in time for the show though, Paul suggested that his days in the ring were done.
“I’m retired. I’m a dad bro.”
Paul became a father back in September when he and Nina Agdal welcomed their daughter. Fittingly, the pair of social media influencers shared their news on Instagram, sharing that ‘”Esme Agdal Paul has entered the chat.” The couple shared in April 2024 that they were expecting.
While Paul is teasing being done in the ring, he’s not ready to leave WWE entirely behind. On the podcast, Paul described working with WWE as “fun as f***” and encouraged his guest Fanum to do something with the promotion. With four million subscribers across YouTube and Twitch, Fanum certainly has a following that could be introduced to the world of WWE if a deal can be reached.
Paul has competed three times at WrestleMania, where he boasts an impressive 2-1 record. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Logan Paul, and whether The Maverick is indeed ‘retired’ from the ring.
‘Diamond’ Dallas Page’s days competing in the ring are behind the WWE Hall of Famer, but the positive legend has plans for at least one last Diamond Cutter. On the Insight podcast, Page, who is 68, was asked if he’d consider wrestling again, possibly for his 70th birthday.
“No [laughs]. It’s so important for me, my body feels good.”
Page recalled wrestling a 70-year-old Bruno Sammartino as part of a fan event, which Page saw as an incredible honor. Despite Sammartino feeling like he wouldn’t be able to do much due to his “aches and pains” Page recalled the former WWWF World Champion holding nothing back when he fought off an interfering Larry Zybysko.
Page’s last official match came on the Page has no plans on competing January 15, 2020, edition of AEW Dynamite, where he was on the losing end of a six-man tag-team match. While Page doesn’t plan on wrestling at 70, the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion does have something special planned to mark the occasion.
“I am there for a diamond cutter. I do want to hit one when I’m 70.”
With his commitment to fitness and his signature brand of DDP Yoga, Page remains in excellent shape at his age, and could theoretically have a match. Nevertheless, Page is happy to leave his time in the ring in the past, though wrestlers should watch out for a Diamond Cutter out of nowhere by the WWE Hall of Famer.
Kevin Owens’ Universal Championship victory was the culmination of years of hard work, but the Canadian has serious regrets over his reign. Owens won the gold on the August 29, 2016, edition of WWE Raw, one week after Finn Balor was forced to vacate the title due to an injury suffered at SummerSlam 2016.
Owens’ 188-day reign with the gold would see him retain against Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns before losing the title in seconds to Goldberg at Fastlane 2017. While fans to this day still criticize the way Owens lost the gold, the Canadian’s biggest regret about his reign came months before his reign ended.
“As far as what I wish I could change or appreciate more is basically every single night after that [title victory].”
As champion, Owens constantly worried about making the newly-introduced title as important as possible, leaving little room to enjoy being one of WWE’s top Superstars.
“I just got so into my own head… I really didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have, and that’s a real regret.”
AEW is halfway through this year’s Continental Classic, with wrestlers competing to rack up points to earn an opportunity at the AEW Continental Championship. Here are the scores from this year’s tournament as they currently stand.
Blue League
Kyle Fletcher
9 Points
Daniel Garcia
4 Points
Kazuchika Okada (c)
4 Points
Shelton Benjamin
3 Points
Mark Briscoe
3 Points
The Beast Mortos
0 Points
Gold League
Will Ospreay
6 Points
Claudio Castagnoli
6 Points
Ricochet
6 Points
Brody King
3 Points
Darby Allin
3 Points
Komander (replacing Juice Robinson)
0 Points
Though this year’s Classic is halfway complete, there are plenty more exciting matches confirmed. On this week’s AEW Collision, The Beast Mortos will face Kazuxhika Okada, while Mark Briscoe will take on Kyle Fletcher. On next week’s Holiday Bash edition of AEW Dynamite, Darby Allin will take on Will Ospreay.
The finals of the 2024 AEW Continental Classic will take place on December 28, at AEW Worlds End in Orlando, Florida. On the night, the Blue League’s winner will face the Gold League’s second place, while the Gold League’s winner will face the Blue League’s second place. The winners of these matches will face off later in the night to be crowned the AEW Continental Champion.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from the AEW Continental Classic including live scores and breaking news from this year’s round-robin tournament.
Ricochet could be the next member of the Hurt Syndicate if the former WWE Superstar’s actions on this week’s Dynamite are anything to go by. During this week’s show, Ricochet met Brody King in the Continental Classic. As per the rules of the round-robin tournament, neither man was accompanied for the match. Before the contest though, Ricochet flashed a Hurt Syndicate business card, suggesting that he was interested in aligning with the MVP-led faction.
Ricochet’s teased turn continued to play out in his match with King, which saw the House of Black star dominate for much of the contest and have the crowd on his side. The tables turned when Ricochet sent King head first into the steel post and was able to get the win and the three points. There were audible boos when Ricochet had the advantage, signaling that a turn could be coming.
Ricochet joining The Hurt Syndicate after the Continental Classic is a HUGE money move ? Bruh finna be a top heel #AEWDynamitepic.twitter.com/LfNxO4sCAi
On a recent edition of the Barstool Rasslin podcast, Ricochet shared that he was intrigued in joining the group that currently consists of MVP, Bobby Lashley, and Shelton Benjamin.
“I think there are some things I could learn from the Hurt Syndicate, but man, it’s maybe how to hurt people.”
The idea of Ricochet joining is somewhat ironic, considering that he feuded with The Hurt Business in WWE when the group formed in 2020. Ricochet has claimed that he and Apollo Crews were once planned to be a part of the Hurt Business before plans changed for the faction. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Ricochet, and whether he aligns with MVP and the rest of the Hurt Syndicate.
Bobby Lashley is excited to bring the Hurt Syndicate to AEW, and is ready for opportunities not afforded in other promotions. Lashley debuted in AEW in October and wasted no time in aligning with his fellow Hurt Business alum MVP and Shelton Benjamin.
Speaking to Justin Barrasso of Undisputed, Lashley shared that he joined AEW for the Hurt Syndicate and the natural chemistry he shares with MVP and Benjamin. Lashley added that he’s grateful to Tony Khan for giving him the opportunity to run with the group.
“We didn’t get the opportunity to show what we really wanted to do before. Now we do. The possibilities and ideas about what we can do in AEW, that keeps me up at night.”
Lashley’s comments echo the views of many regarding the handling of The Hurt Business in WWE. In 2021, the decision was made to split the group, an idea all four members reportedly pleaded against happening. While the group reunited a handful of months later, much of the group’s luster had gone, and a second split in 2021 ended the popular faction on a sour note.
Though best known for their work together in WWE, MVP and Lashley’s partnership dates back a decade or so to their days in Impact Wrestling (now TNA Wrestling.) In the interview, Lashley shared that he didn’t know what to expect when they were “thrown together” but the pair quickly found their “synergy.”
“He’s a natural bad guy. He’s the voice, I’m the power. Handling yourself against MVP on the mic and against me in the ring, that’s a challenge for everyone.”
With both MVP and Benjamin by his side, Lashley remains undefeated in AEW, with his most recent victory coming at Full Gear over Swerve Strickland. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Bobby Lashley, who’s ready to make the most of his opportunity in AEW.
Toni Storm made her long-awaited return on this week’s AEW Dynamite, and has seemingly left her ‘Timeless’ days in the past. On the Winter Is Coming show, Mariah May retained the AEW Women’s World Championship against Mina Shirakawa.
Storm arrived to interrupt May’s celebration and was in her original outfit and used her ‘Watch What’s Next’ theme song. May was shocked to see her former mentor’s return, while Thunder Rosa, who was sitting in the crowd, held a ‘WTF’ sign.
Storm had been missing since AEW All In: London in August, where she lost the AEW Women’s World Title to May. Storm, still the Timeless One at the time, left the show by wandering into the streets of London. Last month, Storm claimed that she was retiring from wrestling and that AEW would be fine without her.
Now though, Storm is back, much to the chagrin of May, and those wanting celebrity-endorsed tacos in Mexico. Storm has previously suggested she’d wait until AEW Grand Slam: Australia to challenge for the gold, and it remains to be seen if AEW will wait until the February 2025 show. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Toni Storm now that former champion is back, and isn’t living in the past.
Darby Allin intends to climb Mt. Everest later this year in his biggest risk to date, despite Sting trying to talk him out of the idea. Speaking to Denise Salcedo at the AEW All In: Texas tickets launch event, Allin shared that his friend and former tag team partner wanted him to reconsider the incredibly dangerous climb.
“He’s tried but he knows that I really want to do it. He’s like, ‘Alright man, if you’re on a vision quest and you want to do something, go do it.’”
Allin believes the climb will be a “very humbling experience” and will serve as a reminder of what he’s capable of. Allin intends to start his climb in April of this year after plans to climb last year were nixed due to an injury.
“I’m very excited for that opportunity and very grateful that AEW is letting me do this in the middle of my career.”
The 29,000-foot mountain is nothing to take lightly. According to Himalayan databases, over 320 people have died attempting to scale the mountain since records began in 1922. Climbers who perish on the mountain are often left there, due to the risks related to removing the body, a sign of their dedication to climbing, and as a somber reminder to others of the dangers of nature.
One landmark on Everest is ‘Green Boots,’ which is the body of an unidentified climber on the Northeast Ridge route who is noticeable for his brightly colored boots. While never officially identified, it is believed to be the body of Tsewang Paljor, an Indian member of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police expedition who died as part of a 1996 climbing disaster.
Becky Lynch has proven herself for years in the ring, but now ‘The Man’ is taking a bold leap into the popular world of Magic The Gathering. Lynch is joining actor Xolo Maridueña (Blue Beetle, Cobra Kai) for her very first game. The game’s latest expansion, Foundations, hit retailers last month.
While Lynch is prepared to bring the fight to her first Magic The Gathering game, wrestling fans are eagerly awaiting Lynch’s return to the ring. The Man parted ways with WWE in June of this year with her most recent match to date being a steel cage defeat to Liv Morgan, thanks in part to the interference of Dominik Mysterio.
Whether a return comes next month or not, Lynch’s Magic the Gathering debut, which will be part of the Deck Chair channel, will introduce the popular wrestler to fans of the iconic table-top card game. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Becky Lynch, as the former Women’s World Champion continues to make an impression outside of the ring.
Bayley is no stranger to competing at WrestleMania, and the Role Model is hoping her next match at the show of shows is against one of NXT’s top stars. Speaking to Going Ringside, Bayley shared that she’s eager to be the first WrestleMania adversary of NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez.
“She’s killing it as the NXT Women’s Champion… I know everybody wants to work with her, but I’m selfish, so I want to get her first Mania match.”
Perez and Bayley are “really tight friends,” the Role Model added, which would make a potential WrestleMania showdown even more special. Bayley knows all about facing friends at the Show of Shows, including her former ally IYO SKY at this year’s event in Philadelphia.
Perez has certainly impressed during her three years in WWE NXT. Already a two-time NXT Women’s Champion, The Prodigy has quickly established herself as a top-name with fans speculating that a main roster call-up will come in 2025. Whether that’s the case or not, Bayley is waiting for the 23-year-old, and ready to lock horns at WrestleMania 40.
Other Highlights
Bayley discussed more than her dream match with Roxanne Perez in the interviews. She covered a number of topics, including:
Speaking about WWE’s Holiday Tour, Bayley shared that travel has been easier this year thanks to several events being hosted in Florida in a row.
On the topic of fans becoming wrestlers, Bayley said it’s a beautiful full-circle moment and singled out her own superfan Izzy Moreno, who is now a wrestler.
Bayley shared that when she joined, Natalya, Tamina, and Naomi treated her with respect and helped her feel welcome. Now as a locker room leader herself, Bayley strives to be as supportive to newcomers, including NXT signings and those who’ve joined from other promotions.
Bayley is recovering after being part of the Women’s WarGames Match at Survivor Series and is currently enjoying some downtime before returning to action.
WWE Superstar Logan Paul could find himself back in the world of boxing soon after being challenged by Tyson Fury’s father John Fury. On Instagram, the elder Fury threw out the challenge for next year, when his son Tommy Fury faces Jake Paul.
“Tommy will fight Jake by January or February, and I’ll fight you. You’re younger and heavier, but I’ll let my punches go. Critics can say what they like, but I’ll prove them wrong.”
This post caught the attention of Paul, who responded in the comments by saying “Start training.” While neither man has set a date, it appears that a showdown could be in the future for the pair.
Paul hasn’t competed in WWE since SummerSlam 2024, where his lengthy reign as United States Champion was ended by LA Knight. Paul has impressed even his fiercest of critics since making his WWE in-ring debut in 2022, and currently has a win/loss record of 7-8. In boxing, Paul has competed in two professional fights, and boasts a 1-1 record, and fought Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather in June 2021 in an exhibition match.
The Fury family are no strangers to pro wrestling, with Tyson Fury defeating Braun Strowman via count-out at WWE Crown Jewel 2019. In 2022, Fury once again showed the impact of his devastating punches, as he KO’d Austin Theory at Clash At The Castle, preventing A-Town Down from cashing in his Money in the Bank contract.
With Paul being busy with WWE, his YouTube channel, and PRIME (as well as a series of lawsuits) it remains to be seen whether he can fit in a fight with John Fury. If so, then the match would no-doubt receive major coverage, as Logan Paul continues to drum up interest wherever he goes.
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes aims to prove that he’s the workhorse of WWE by reaching a milestone number of matches this year. On X, a fan shared the number of matches some of WWE’s top Superstars have competed in in 2024, and Rhodes shared that he’s eager to hit triple digits.
Rhodes will add another match to his record this Saturday when he faces Kevin Owens at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. Their deeply personal feud has been brewing since Bad Blood, where Owens attacked Rhodes following the show. Owens has justified his actions, claiming Rhodes betrayed him by teaming with Roman Reigns at the PLE despite all that the Tribal Chief has done to both men.
Last year, Rhodes competed in 102 matches across WWE TV and live events, including his first WrestleMania main event. In 2022, Rhodes competed 23 times for WWE, though spent much of that year on the shelf due to his torn pectoral injury. Rhodes’ first match of 2023 would see him win the Men’s Royal Rumble match, his first of back-to-back wins in the contest.
Highlights of Rhodes’ 2024 so far include headlining both nights of WrestleMania 40, as well as several other PLE main event matches. Mere days ahead of his win in Philadelphia, Rhodes inked a new contract with WWE that’ll keep him competing for the company for years to come.
Rhodes’ impressive numbers come in stark contrast to his predecessor Roman Reigns, who competed just a handful of times during his final years as champion. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Cody Rhodes as the American Nightmare continues to set the standard as WWE’s top Superstar.
Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf made a surprise appearance on this week’s WWE NXT and bonded with Lexis King. Backstage, Leaf said “Everyone is seeing your story play out,” referencing the second-generation wrestler’s efforts to be a better person. Leaf spoke about his own experience undergoing public scrutiny, a nod to his multiple legal troubles that have played out over the years.
In a surprise, King credited Leaf for his change. The NXT wrestler shared that it was Leaf who advised him to attend the recent NXT Deadline event, despite not having a match, something he never would’ve done as a heel.
Leaf’s appearance on the show further emphasizes NXT’s relationship with The CW, which has been airing the silver brand since October. Leaf is part of the CW’s college football broadcast team, calling Pac-12 games and building a presence in the sports media world.
It’s unclear if this was a one-off appearance for Ryan Leaf, or the start of something between himself and Lexis King. In the meantime, King will seek to prove he’s changed his ways. The former AEW star’s most recent match for NXT came on last week’s episode, where he was part of the Iron Survivor Challenge Last-Chance qualifying match that was won by Eddy Thorpe.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE NXT and Lexis King, as the second-generation Superstar continues to try and prove that he’s changed his ways.
ECW legend Sabu was far from impressed with WWE NXT’s recent visit to the 2300 Arena, which saw plenty of nods to the extreme promotion. Speaking to Covalent TV, the former ECW World Heavyweight Champion didn’t hold back with his take on the November 6, episode.
“I thought it was lame… it was lame for a nostalgia ECW thing… It’s not really a reunion or a top-notch thing without me or Sandman.”
Sabu added that the show’s lack of Paul Heyman also hurt the ECW feel of the broadcast. While some fans had expected Heyman to make an appearance, the WWE Hall of Famer was still selling the attack from Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline. Heyman would instead return to TV on the go-home SmackDown before WWE Survivor Series: WarGames.
Rob Van Dam assisted Je’Von Evans in his match with Wes Lee.
Bubba Ray Dudley teamed with Trick Williams to face Ethan Page and Ridge Holland
D-Von Dudley appeared after the aforementioned tag team match.
Nunzio faced NXT North American Champion Tony D’Angelo.
Rhino delivered a gore to Mr. Stone.
Dawn Marie officiated a Hardcore Match between Jaida Parker and Lola Vice.
Francine was seen in the crowd.
A WWE NXT Digital saw Steve Corino speak with Mr. Stone.
2024 has been a huge year for WWE NXT, which in addition to the ECW show, moved to The CW in the show’s biggest broadcast deal to date. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE NXT as the silver brand continues to be a show to watch.
AEW will produce more video games, Tony Khan has confirmed, while also continuing its work on its first console gaming entry, Fight Forever. Speaking to Mr. Wright Way at the AEW All In: Texas tickets launch event, Khan shared his excitement for the future of AEW’s video games department.
“I’m really excited about Fight Forever because there’s still more wrestlers and exciting updates coming to the game. Eventually, we’ll absolutely continue to put out more AEW games.”
For now, the focus is on making Fight Forever the best it can be, Khan said, adding that the game was a “great first entry” into the world of console video games. he spoke of the “many opportunities in the world of gaming” and is excited to explore what’s out there.
Fight Forever: Shaky First Outing
AEW Fight Forever launched in June 2023 after a series of delays to PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC, and the Nintendo Switch. The game received mixed to average reviews, including an average score of 63/100 on Metacritic. The game was praised for its arcade gameplay, but criticized for its limited presentation, modes, and customization features.
AEW worked with Yuke’s to develop Fight Forever, but this partnership may not continue for future projects. In September, it was reported that “decision makers” in AEW were strongly considering finding a new development partner. The belief is that developers were pressured to “deliver something faster than what it should’ve been,” leading to issues with the released product.
Check out our Gaming Hub for all the latest on AEW Fight Forever, the WWE 2K series and more from the world of pro-wrestling video games.
WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam has shown interest in honing the talent of tomorrow and welcoming them into the world of pro wrestling. Speaking on his 1 Of A Kind podcast, Van Dam shared that he’d love to do more with WWE from a talent development standpoint.
“I have some interest… I could see [myself] doing that, especially with the big welcome vibe. You know, like, ‘You’re welcome here anytime.’ That really encourages me.”
WWE’s newest tactic to bring new talent on board is WWE LFG (Legends & Future Greats.) The A&E-produced show will see wrestling legends team with young contestants, eager to earn a contract with WWE. These contestants (the titular Future Greats,) will participate in weekly matches, and learn the behind-the-scenes workings of the wrestling business. Mentors confirmed for the show include Booker T, Bubba Ray Dudley, The Undertaker, and Mickie James.
Van Dam has made several sporadic appearances for WWE in recent months, including being at SmackDown’s return to the USA Network in September. The next month, the WWE Hall of Famer appeared in NXT to share that he’d be at the following week’s show in the 2300 Arena. Inside the legendary ECW venue, RVD backed Je’Von Evans, who’d defeat Wes Lee on the night.
Whether fans see Rob Van Dam as part of WWE LFG, that remains to be seen, but the former WWE & ECW World Champion is certainly interested in doing more. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Rob Van Dam as the wrestling legend continues to tease a closer future with the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.
WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley wrestled for years as ‘Cactus Jack’ but has no issue with that moniker now being used by Travis Scott. Speaking to MuscleManMalcolm, Foley shared that he doesn’t mind the popular rapper using Cactus Jack for his branding.
“I don’t mind. I know a lot of people do, but I don’t mind… if Travis Scott wants to bring a little more love to the name Cactus Jack because it trickles down to me eventually. True, it’s definitely a big compliment.”
Foley’s willingness to share aspects of his character goes far beyond the Cactus Jack name. In the interview, he shared that he doesn’t mind seeing others use the Mandible Claw on TV, again seeing it as a compliment to his own career. The move was used by Bray Wyatt during his time as The Fiend and more recently has been used by Uncle Howdy.
Scott’s love of pro wrestling can’t be denied, with several of his tracks including some nod to the industry. Scott will not only provide the theme song for Raw when the red brand moves to Netflix, but will give a live performance on the debut show on January 6.
When we say WWE goes big, we mean it. The first #WWERaw of the @netflix Era will be at the @IntuitDome in Los Angeles on January 6th, and @trvisXX will be there live and in person.
As the Cactus Jack of the modern-day, Scott was gifted a custom WWE Hardcore Championship last month by Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque. Scott is already a huge name in the world of music and his role with WWE will provide the opportunity for more crossover for rap and wrestling fans.
Whether Travis Scott defends his Hardcore Championship, that remains to be seen, but expect plenty more from the artist, especially when Raw moves to Netflix in January. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Travis Scott as the popular rapper continues to grow his ties to the world of WWE.
The action didn’t stop after the latest edition of WWE Monday Night Raw went off the air. The show from Wichita, Kansas, served as the go-home show before WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event. Raw saw Drew McIntyre address his recent return to WWE programming, as well as a major change made to a championship match at this weekend’s event.
After the show went off the air, fans in Wichita saw two of WWE’s top female Superstars in action. Miss Money in the Bank Tiffany Stratton took on Bayley in a dark match that saw the Role Model get the victory.
Bayley was featured on Raw in an interview with Cathy Kelley, while eagle-eyed fans will have spotted the Buff Barbie. As Seth Rollins was seen backstage walking to the entrance area, Stratton could be seen speaking with Raw General Manager Adam Pearce.
Stratton’s cameo on the show has fueled speculation that she could be making a move to Raw as part of the WWE Transfer Window. The newly-announced program will see talent from Raw, SmackDown, and WWE be eligible to switch brands. On last week’s SmackDown, Nick Aldis was seen conversing with Dominik Mysterio and World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER.
In the meantime, Stratton remains Miss Money in the Bank, and has even teased inserting herself in the NXT Women’s Championship picture. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Tiffany Stratton and her plans heading into the new year.
Big Boom A.J. of the Costco Guys is eager to get back in the ring and plans to be a part of AEW’s programming once again later this month. A.J. suffered a foot injury during his Full Gear match with QT Marshall which has kept the viral TikTok star on the shelf ever since. Speaking at the All In: Texas tickets launch event, A.J. shared an exciting update.
“This cast will be off in about two weeks. I’ll be back in the ring about four weeks after that. We will see everyone up at the Hammerstein Ballroom.”
AEW will host Collision from the Hammerstein Ballroom on Saturday, December 21. The next night, the promotion will tape an episode of AEW Dynamite and AEW Rampage. Looking to 2025, A.J. also shared that he and his family are coming to All In: Texas.
“Texas, AJ, Big Justice, we will be here at All In, and we’re coming to bring the boom!”
A.J. earned praise for his match at Full Gear, his first professional match in close to two decades. The match also showed AEW’s growing appeal in the mainstream, as A.J. and his viral family brought their massive fanbase to Tony Khan’s promotion.
AEW All In: Texas will take place on Saturday, July 12, with tickets now on sale. The show will be AEW’s first All In event in the United States, as well as the promotion’s first pay-per-view in the Lone Star state. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest about All In: Texas as well as the Costco Guy’s future work with AEW.
Bryan Danielson will be present for AEW All In: Texas, though questions remain as to whether the former World Champion will be in action. This week, Danielson was in the Lone Star state as part of the All In: Texas tickets launch event and addressed his role for the show.
“As for my participation at All In, I don’t know what that looks like. I don’t know if I’ll be able to wrestle at that point. I don’t know if I’ll be able to wrestle again to be quite honest. But there’s one thing that I can tell you for certain: I will be here. There is nothing that you can do to make me miss All In.”
Danielson got “chills” walking into Globe Life Field, which will play host to All In: Texas on July 12. The show will be AEW’s first All In pay-per-view in the United States as well as the promotion’s first pay-per-view in Texas.
Danielson hasn’t competed since AEW WrestleDream, which marked the end of his full-time career, and his reign as AEW World Champion. The American Dragon has been open about his medical issues and believes he will require neck surgery before 2024 is over.
As one of AEW’s top stars, it’d certainly be fitting for Danielson to be a part of All In, even if a match isn’t in the cards for the former World Champion. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Bryan Danielson as the veteran continues to navigate this chapter of his career.