WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff has confirmed that he is not under contract with WWE, despite being featured in the upcoming WWE 2K25 video game. On X, Bischoff clarified his status with WWE after being announced as part of the playable roster during IGN FanFest.
I receive royalties whenever WWE uses my likeness. It was a part of my original talent agreement and is/was standard language for talent agreements. I have no contract w WWE. Legends or otherwise. https://t.co/syp8dI4l9g
While Bischoff does not have a formal agreement with WWE, the former Raw General Manager has maintained a positive relationship with the promotion. Bischoff was part of the December 3, 2024, episode of WWE NXT but reiterated at the time that he was not signed to any contract.
Bischoff isn’t the only notable name included as a playable character in WWE 2K25. Several stars who were recently released will also be playable including Baron Corbin, Blair Davenport, Cedric Alexander, Sonya Deville, and others. Paul Ellering will not be a playable character but will be a manager option despite his release from WWE.
WWE 2K25 will release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game launching a week earlier on March 7. With WWE 2K Mobile also announced, this year is shaping up to be a massive one for wrestling fans and gamers alike.
Mick Foley’s days competing in the ring may be in the past but the Hardcore Legend would have loved the chance to face some of the stars of modern-day wrestling. Speaking to Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at For the Love of Wrestling, Foley gave his dream opponents from the industry today.
“I could have torn it down with Darby Allin. When it comes to that wild stuff, Jon Moxley and I could have torn it down.”
Foley also threw Kevin Owens’ name on the list of talent he would’ve loved to face before sharing his interest in working with WWE’s resident, ‘Mami’ Rhea Ripley.
“I still think a 59-year-old Mick Foley and Rhea Ripley would draw at WrestleMania. [Or] Maybe I come on Mami’s behalf and seek vengeance on Dirty Dom! That could work, that would that would sell out stadiums.”
Foley has no shortage of dream opponents but it seems that these showdowns will remain a dream. In 2024, Foley shared his desire to have one final death match. Despite losing over 90lbs to make the match happen, signs of a concussion ultimately led to Mick backing down from the idea.
While Foley won’t be stepping back in the ring, the former WWE World Champion continues to be a figure of immense respect among fans and his peers. And with WWE 2K25 including intergender matches, Foley will soon get his chance to headline WrestleMania against Rhea Ripley, albeit in the virtual world.
“I wouldn’t want to just to do that… But definitely when it comes to work I think we could do some great stuff. We could bring the Mixed Match Challenge back.”
Stratton and Kaiser met as part of WWE with their first official meeting being inside the Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Though the pair couldn’t help but notice one another, it took time before they began conversing.
“We can be pretty stubborn I think. And I think nobody wanted to make the first step.”
It was sheer coincidence that the pair eventually took the brave step towards one another. Kaiser explained that he was out with some friends and spotted Stratton who was celebrating her birthday weekend with some pals. The pair eventually began talking and “I don’t know how it went, but somehow we got to that, hey, why don’t we go on a date?”
Though the pair are on different brands, Kaiser could not be happier to see Stratton thrive on WWE SmackDownas the reigning WWE Women’s Champion. Reflecting on Tiffy Time coming during the first SmackDown of 2025, Kaiser was glad he could be with Stratton every step of the way.
“I’ve been there for the lows, I’ve been there for the highs. I’ve seen it all very up close, and she created something there. She’s doing amazing.”
Kaiser has seen his own star grow on Monday Night Raw, where he has been in pursuit of the Intercontinental Championship and has been feuding with Penta. Whether it remains to be seen if Stratton wins gold of his own, the German is pleased that his WWE career is happening during ‘Tiffy Time.’
Joe Hendry merch has proven immensely popular among wrestling fans, which has prompted the TNA World Champion to warn those fans about bootlegs and scams. On X, Hendry called out TeePublic, a popular shirt design store, for selling bootleg shirts with the intellectual property of the Scottish star. Hendry gave TeePublic 24 hours to take the shirt down or face legal ramififcations.
When a fan pointed out that the shirt will have been uploaded by an individual who chose to use Hendry’s IP, the TNA World Champion pointed out that TeePublic knows wht they’re doing.
Later on, Hendry reflected on the production of counterfeit merchandise, including an ‘official’ website that is anything but. Hendry warned fans that if they buy from a platform outside of TNA, PW Tees, Hot Topic or Major Bendies, then they are buying a bootleg and aiding those trying to unfairly profit on Hendry’s IP.
Counterfeit merch has become a serious issue.
Unless you get it from me, TNA,Pro Wrestling Tees, Hot Topic or Major Bendies, it is FAKE
Joe Hendry merch is a fake site.
The attached images are examples of counterfeit items
For countless wrestlers, merchandise plays a pivotal role funding their lives and careers, so seeing someone else make money that could and should’ve gone to the wrestler is very frustrating. Now, Hendry is taking a stand against this practice and hopes that TeePublic will be the first of many to reconsider hosting bootleg merchandise.
Posted February 18th, 2025 in TNA. Tagged: Joe Hendry.
Wrestling legend The Great Muta was left far from impressed with the food provided by massive UK pub chain ‘Wetherspoons’ during a recent trip to the United Kingdom. Muta, real name Keiji Mutoh, was part of Monopoly Events’ For The Love of Wrestling convention, the largest wrestling convention in Europe.
On X (fka Twitter), Muta shared that he was at Bishop Blaze, a Wetherspoons-brand pub located next to the stadium of Manchester United. Sampling a taste from home, Muta shared that he ordered a katsu chicken curry and a ramen bowl.
In a follow-up, Muta shard that the curry was “okay” but was not a fan of the ramen, declaring “what the heck is this?!” Muta wasn’t the only famous face in Wetherspoons as several wrestling stars from the convention, including Mark Henry, Tajiri, Debra, and Sonny Onoo, dined at the Bishop Blaze.
Muta’s experience at Bishop Blaze is not Wetherspoons’ first time stepping foot in the squared circle. Ahead of All In: London 2024, AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone shared an image of her Wetherspoons breakfast that fans felt left a lot to be desired.
For the Love of Wrestling has already confirmed dates for its 2026 event which will see the massive convention return to Manchester’s Bowlers Exhibition Centre. As for Muta, he is enjoying his retirement from the ring, though will probably opt for the fish ‘n chips over the ramen the next time he steps foot in a Wetherspoons.
Roxanne Perez is feeling immensely confident about her future after qualifying for the Women’s Elimination Chamber match on the latest Raw. After defeating Raquel Rodriguez, Perez gloated to WWE’s camera crew backstage:
“The Prodigy is going to the Elimination Chamber! Because nobody is on my level! Not anybody from NXT, not anybody from Raw or SmackDown, and especially not Raquel Rodriguez!”
Perez’s harsh words didn’t stop there, as she claimed it was “embarrassing” for Perez to lose to Perez, who’s still a part of NXT. Signing off, Perez declared herself “your future Women’s World Champion,” sharing her confidence that she’ll have a title match at WrestleMania 41.
Perez may be confidence that she’ll challenge for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania but her journey to Las Vegas will not be easy. Perez will be joined by Liv Morgan, Bayley, Bianca Belair, Naomi, and Alexa Bliss. For Perez, this won’t just be a match pitting her against some of WWE’s top women, but it’ll mark her Elimination Chamber debut, the only woman entering the match for the first time.
The Prodigy’s win on Raw will only further fuel talks that a full-time move to WWE’s main roster is coming for the two-time former NXT Women’s Champion. Win or lose at Elimination Chamber, fans can expect plenty more of Roxanne Perez in the WWE spotlight.
The fans in Charlotte, North Carolina were treated to a special appearance from Cody Rhodes after the February 17, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw went off the air. In a special dark match, Rhodes received a hero’s welcome as he arrived in Charlotte to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Carmelo Hayes.
These two have a history, with Hayes ambushing Rhodes after an episode of Monday Night Raw in January 2025. This week, however, it was Rhodes who had the last laugh as he retained his title against ‘Him.’
Dark match after WWE Raw . Cody Rhodes vs Carmelo Hayes for the WWE championship pic.twitter.com/kXVvGFFp7J
Rhodes’ victory marks another succesful title defense for the Undisputed WWE Champion who has held the gold since WrestleMania 40 in April 2024. This match marked Rhodes’ 57th succesful title defense as the American Nightmare is proving himself as a workhorse champion.
With another win under his belt, Rhodes’ attention now turns to the Elimination Chamber 2025 Premium Live Event. While Rhodes isn’t set to compete in Toronto, the Men’s Chamber match will determine who will face the American Nightmare at WrestleMania 41. On Raw, Seth Rollins earned the final spot in the Chamber match, joining Drew McIntyre, John Cena, CM Punk, Logan Paul, and Damian Priest.
The final spots in this year’s Elimination Chamber matches were claimned during the February 17, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, giving a clear picture of what fans can expect next month.
Perez Punches Her Ticket
In out first of two qualifying matches, NXT’s Roxanne Perez earned a spot in the Women’s Chamber with a big win over Raquel Rodriguez. Perez scored the pinfall after hitting Pop Rox on Perez who’d been distracted with the ringside situation between Liv Morgan, Bianca Belair, and Naomi.
Perez joins a star-studded field of competitors that’ll include Bianca Belair, Naomi, Liv Morgan, Alexa Bliss, and Naomi. This win on Raw was also a longtime coming for Perez who hadn’t won a singles match since her October 1, 2024 win over Giulia during WWE NXT’s debut on The CW.
Seth Rollins Enters the Chamber.
The final spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier saw Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins defeat Finn Balor during this week’s Raw in Charlotte, North Carolina. With his win, Rollins will join John Cena, Logan Paul, Damian Priest, CM Punk, and Drew McIntyre. Rollins has faced all five men individually at WWE Premium Live Events and will now have to take all of them on once again.
The winner will earn a shot at The Undisputed WWE Championship held by Cody Rhodes, who returned to WWE in 2022 with a win over Seth Rollins. Now, McIntyre has the opportunity to get payback for that loss, and take the WWE Championship in the process, if he survives the Elimination Chamber.
Raj Dhesi isn’t opposed to signing with another major promotion in wrestling, but only under the right circumstances. Speaking with with Monopoly Events’ Jamal Niaz at For The Love of Wrestling in Manchester, England, the former WWE Champion reflected on his future in the ring.
“As far as signing with another major promotion, everything would have to be right. Storyline, business would have to make sense. Everything would have to make sense.”
Dhesi competed as Jinder Mahal for years, during which he became WWE Champion, U.S. Champion, and 24/7 Champion. Comparing WWE today to his tenure with the promotion, Dhesi wished that WWE had scaled back on live events during his run.
“I wish we would have had this schedule now with less emphasis on live events because we were worked pretty heavily. Our schedules were quite intense with live events.”
Some fans have predicted that Dhesi will land in AEW which has become home to other former WWE Superstars and Champions. Though Fhesi has a history with Tony Khan, he explained that “AEW, not at an official level [has reached out.] Nobody has on a really official level.”
For now, Dhesi is keeping himself active on the indpendents where he has quickly become a top draw. As far as a future in a major promotion is concerned, Dhesi isn’t opposed to a contract, but only under the right circumstances.
Posted February 17th, 2025 in News. Tagged: Raj Dhesi.
WWE 2K25 is set to be the biggest wrestling video game in history with the largest ever roster of over 300 Superstars. While many are returning to the WWE 2K series, some talents are set to make their debut in the upcoming game. They include:
Oba Femi: The reigning WWE NXT Champion, Oba Femi is known for his brutal and dominating style in the ring, making his much-anticipated debut in WWE 2K25.
Lexis King: NXT’s Heritage Cup Champion has quickly asserted himself as a top act in the silver act and will now carry on the Pillman legacy in WWE video games.
Jacob Fatu: The high-flying powerhouse and member of the legendary Anoa’i family, Jacob Fatu brings his explosive energy and intimidating presence to the WWE 2K25 universe.
Ethan Page: The former WWE NXT Champion was part of AEW’s first console game, Fight Forever, and will now make his WWE 2K debut.
Je’Von Evans: Ethan Page’s current rival in WWE NXT, the Young OG will bring his gravity-defying offense to the roster of the upcoming game.
Charlie Dempsey: The No Quarter Catch Crew member will bring his hard-hitting, no nonsense style to the world of WWE 2K25.
Ava: The NXT General Manager will make her WWE 2k debut in a major way by being a part of the Bloodline Showcase mode in the upcoming game.
Tama Tonga/Tonga Loa: The Tongas have proven to be ones to watch since arriving in WWE in 2024 and fans can expect that to continue in their WWE 2K25 debut.
Jaida Parker: The up-and-comer of WWE NXT, Jaida Parker will make her debut in this game, giving fans a chance to pit Parker against some of WWE’s biggest names.
Tatum Paxley: After playing a key part of the NXT/TNA crossover in 2024, Tatum Paxley will bring her unique personality to the WWE 2K25 roster.
Eddy Thope: One of the fastest rising names in WWE NXT, Eddy Thorpe will be one to play as when WWE 2K25 launches in March.
Elektra Lopez: Lopez’s inclusion in WWE 2K25 is historic in an unfortunate way, as she is making her debut in the game after already being released by the company.
Nick Aldis: The SmackDown General Manager will be a manager in WWE 2K25, allowing fans the chance to benefit from the former TNA World Champion.
WWE 2K25 will release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game launching a week earlier on March 7. With WWE 2K Mobile also announced, this year is shaping up to be a massive one for wrestling fans and gamers alike.
WWE has quietly changed its drug testing policy, officially removing marijuana from its list of banned substances. This change was confirmed by Mia ‘Michin’ Yim during a recent appearance on the Speak Easy Podcast, where she discussed the role cannabis plays in her recovery routine.
“Marijuana used to be on the drug list, and they took that off years ago. So when I get home on Saturdays, I’ll do that and just chill out all day.”
WWE allowing marijuana marks a major shift from the company’s previous stance where wrestlers could face fines or worse for testing positive.
In 2006, Rob Van Dam was suspended after being found with 18 grams of marijuana and five Vicodin pills during a police stop. The issue would see WWE quickly force Rob to lose both the WWE and ECW World Championships, accolades he’d never hold again in his career.
On the podcast, Yim explained the importance of recovery in professional wrestling, noting that maintaining her body is crucial given the toll the industry puts on her body.
“I go to a chiropractor once a week, cryotherapy once a week, a massage depending on how I feel… but if I had a hardcore match, I’m taking the whole weekend off.”
WWE accepting the use of marijuana aligns with the broader trend in sports and entertainment, with leagues including the NBA and NFL relaxing their stance. Many athletes have advocated for marijuana as a safer alternative to opioids for pain management, and WWE’s decision could signal a more progressive approach to wrestler wellness.
With WrestleMania season underway, Superstars are working tirelessly to prove they deserve to be on the two-night card in Las Vegas, and this policy shift will allow for Yim and others to help their bodies recovery through marijuana usage. As Yim put it, “If I’m not taking care of my body, my career isn’t going to last.”
WWE released several names from its roster in recent weeks, but those cut from the company aren’t entirely gone just yet. Instead, several names who’ve been given the dreaded pink slip will still be playable as part of WWE 2K25.
Released talent who will be playable in WWE 2K25 include:
Duke Hudson
Akam
Rezar
Blair Davenport
Cedric Alexander
Luke Gallows
Karl Anderson
Giovanni Vinci
Sonya Deville
Isla Dawn
Elektra Lopez
Paul Ellering was also among those released from WWE. While the Hall of Famer/Final Testament alum won’t be a playable character in WWE 2K25, he will be a non-playable manager in the game.
The inclusion of these released Superstars demonstrate how quickly things can change in WWE. While these talents hoped that WWE 2K25 would just be the latest in a series of games they would be a part of, next month’s instalment will most likely be the last time they are playable in a WWE video game.
These released talents will be part of the largest roster in the history of WWE video games with stars from the past and present. With over 300 names confirmed for the game, in addition to Wyatt Sicks-themed DLC, fans will be able to recreate their favorite matches or create never-before-seen contests in the upcoming game.
WWE 2K25 will release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game launching a week earlier on March 7. With WWE 2K Mobile also announced, this year is shaping up to be a massive one for wrestling fans and gamers alike.
WWE 2K25 is set to hit shelves in March 2025, giving fans the latest installment into pro-wrestling premiere video game series. Now, the full roster for the game has been revealed, courtesy of IGN:
Playable Characters
AJ Styles
Akam
Akira Tozawa
Alba Fyre
Alexa Bliss
Alundra Blayze
Andrade
Andre Chase
Andre The Giant
Angel
Angelo Dawkins
Apollo Crews
Ashante “Thee” Adonis
Asuka
Austin Theory
Axiom
B-Fab
Baron Corbin
Batista
Bayley
Becky Lynch
Berto
Bianca Belair
Big E
Blair Davenport
Boogeyman
Booker T
Braun Strowman
Bray Wyatt
Bret Hart
British Bulldog
Bron Breakker
Bronson Reed
Brooks Jensen
Bruno Sammartino
Brutus Creed
Bubba Ray Dudley
Cactus Jack
Candice LeRae
Carlito
Carmella
Carmelo Hayes
Cedric Alexander
Chad Gable
Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo
Charlie Dempsey
Charlotte Flair
Chelsea Green
Chyna
CM Punk
Cody Rhodes
Cora Jade
Cruz Del Toro
D-Von Dudley
Dakota Kai
Damian Priest
Dexter Lumis
Diamond Dallas Page
Diesel
Doink The Clown
Dominik Mysterio
Dragon Lee
Drew McIntyre
Dude Love
Duke Hudson
Dusty Rhodes
Eddie Guerrero
Eddy Thorpe
Elektra Lopez
Elton Prince
Eric Bischoff
Erik
Ethan Page
Eve Torres
Faarooq
Fallon Henley
Finn Balor
George “The Animal” Steele
Gigi Dolin
Giovanni Vinci
Grayson Waller
Gunther
Harley Race
Headshrinker Fatu
Headshrinker Samu
Honky Tonk Man
Hollywood Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan
Hunter Hearst Helmsley
Ilja Dragunov
Indi Hartwell
Isla Dawn
Islander Haku
Islander Tama
Ivar
Ivy Nile
IYO SKY
Jacob Fatu
Jacy Jayne
Jade Cargill
Jaida Parker
Jakara Jackson
Jake “The Snake” Roberts
JBL
JD McDonagh
Je’Von Evans
Jey Uso
Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart
Jimmy Uso
Joaquin Wilde
Joe Coffey
Joe Gacy
John Cena
Johnny Gargano
Josh Briggs
Julius Creed
Kairi Sane
Kane
Karl Anderson
Karrion Kross
Katana Chance
Kayden Carter
Kelani Jordan
Ken Shamrock
Kevin Nash
Kevin Owens
Kiana James
Kit Wilson
Kofi Kingston
Kurt Angle
LA Knight
Lash Legend
Lex Luger
Lexis King
Lita
Liv Morgan
Logan Paul
Lola Vice
Ludwig Kaiser
Luke Gallows
Lyra Valkyria
Mark Coffey
Maryse
Mankind
Maxxine Dupri
Michelle McCool
Michin
Mick Foley
Mighty Molly
Molly Holly
Montez Ford
Mosh
Mr. Fuji
Mr. Perfect
Naomi
Natalya
Nathan Frazer
Nia Jax
Nikki Cross
Nikkita Lyons
Noam Dar
Oba Femi
Omos
Oro Mensah
Otis
Pat McAfee
Pete Dunne
Peter Maivia
Piper Niven
R-Truth
Randy Orton
Randy Savage
Razor Ramon
Raquel Rodriguez
Rey Mysterio
Rezar
Rhea Ripley
Rick Rude
Rick Steiner
Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
Ridge Holland
Rikishi
Rob Van Dam
Roddy Piper
Rocky Maivia
Roman Reigns
Rosey
Roxanne Perez
Sami Zayn
Santos Escobar
Scarlett
Scott Hall
Scott Steiner
Sensational Sherri
Seth Rollins
Shawn Michaels
Shawn Spears
Shayna Baszler
Sheamus
Shinsuke Nakamura
Shotzi
Sol Ruca
Solo Sikoa
Sonya Deville
Stacy Keibler
Stardust
Stephanie McMahon
“Stone Cold” Steve Austin
“Superstar” Billy Graham
Syxx
Tama Tonga
Tamina
Tatum Paxley
Tegan Nox
Terry Funk
The Fiend
The Great Muta
The Hurricane
The Iron Sheik
The Miz
The Rock
The Sandman
Thea Hail
Thrasher
Tiffany Stratton
Tommaso Ciampa
Tonga Loa
Tony D’Angelo
Trick Williams
Triple H
Trish Stratus
Tyler Bate
Tyler Breeze
Ultimate Warrior
Umaga
Undertaker
Vader
Valhalla
Wade Barrett
Wendy Choo
Wes Lee
Wild Samoan Afa
Wild Samoan Sika
William Regal
Wolfgang
X-Pac
Xavier Woods
Yokozuna
Zelina Vega
Zoey Stark
Non-Playable Managers
Ava
Adam Pearce
Afa
Armando Alejandro Estrada
Bobby “The Brain” Heenan
Brother Love
Captain Lou Albano
Cathy Kelley
Jimmy Hart
Mick Foley
Miss Elizabeth
Nick Aldis
Paul Bearer
Paul Ellering
Paul Heyman
Stephanie McMahon
Theodore Long
Pre-Order Bonus Characters
Wyatt Sicks – Dexter Lumis
Wyatt Sicks – Erick Rowan
Wyatt Sicks – Joe Gacy
Wyatt Sicks – Nikki Cross
Wyatt Sicks – Uncle Howdy
WWE 2K25 boasts the largest-ever roster in a WWE video game, giving fans more opportunities than ever before to relive iconic matches and create never-before-seen shows of their own. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on WWE 2K25 ahead of the game’s release on March 7.
Andre the Giant is known for his sheer size and strength, but according to Jake “The Snake” Roberts, he also boasted a supersized wrestling IQ. On Six Feet Under with Mark Calaway, Roberts recalled facing Andre in Grand Rapids. During a moment when Andre was in control, Roberts was surprised that the giant backed away in fear.
Roberts was confused—until he turned and saw a 12-year-old girl standing in the ring, holding his snake. Rather than break character, Andre improvised by rolling out of the ring, grabbing a microphone and demanding security arrest the child. Andre’s performance clearly worked, as cops got in the ring and grabbed the girl, who was crying while Andre laughed in character.
“Andre was a thinker. He saw a perfect moment and made it work.”
Roberts and Andre would feud on TV with the French giant being petrified of Jake’s snake Damian. Despite initial concerns about working with Andre, Roberts is thrilled that fans still remember their program to this day.
“I thought, ‘There’s no way in hell I can make this match work’… Most guys would have just thrown the snake out of the ring. Andre turned it into something that people still talk about today.”
The Undertaker, also a massive Andre fan, was awestruck as he heard of the Giant’s in-ring wisdom and described Andre’s ability to adapt on the fly “next level storytelling.” Even decades after Andre’s tragically young passing in 1993, stories like these prove why the Giant wasn’t just an in-ring spectacle, but a mastermind of the craft.
The Undertaker’s WrestleMania legacy was a staple of WWE for decades, but nearly took a a disastrous turn early on thanks to Vince McMahon.
On his Six Feet Under podcast, Mark Calaway recalled McMahon being furious with him over his WrestleMania 8 match with Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts over a change to the finish.
“‘What the hell was that?! Nobody can see it!’, he recalled Vince yelling.
He eviscerated me. Oh my gosh, he lit me up.”
The planned finish was for The Undertaker to hit a Tombstone on Roberts in the ring, eaning the Deadman his second WrestleMania win. However, in the heat of the moment, he decided to deliver it on the floor instead.
While Calaway, still a relative newcomer to WWE, took the verbal onslaught, the veteran Roberts knew it was wise to avoid the irate McMahon.
“I didn’t shower. I just grabbed my stuff and got the hell out.”
Undertaker admitted that the moment taught him a hard lesson about following direct instructions in WWE. From that night on, he made sure to double-check finishes with McMahon before heading to the ring.
The Phenom’s WrestleMania streak would continue on until 2014, when Brock Lesnar conquered the Undertaker in New Orleans. Though McMahon was an obvious key part in the Deadman’s future success at the event, this story is a reminder of how one small misstep could have changed everything.
WWE LFG is the promotion’s newest show seeking to hone new talent, but Mickie James has rejected comparisons to Tough Enough. Speaking to Going Ringside, James, one of the show’s legendary trainers, shared how WWE LFG differs from the promotion’s most iconic show about young talent trying to earn a contract.
“It’s so different and dynamic [from Tough Enough.] You’ve never seen Undertaker as a coach before. In fact, this show is the first time—he says it openly—that it’s the first time he’s actually coached young, hungry wrestlers.”
Tough Enough launched in 2001 with its most reason season taking place in 2015. Notable alum from the show include The Miz, John Morrison, Maven, Nidia, Mandy Rose, Sonya Deville, and Chelsea Green.
The introduction of WWE LFG (which premiered on Sunday, February 16, at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on A&E) marks the promotion’s latest effort to hone new talent. The new show comes as WWE prepares for the launch of its Evolve show, set to premiere next month. Not only that, but WWE NXT and the Next-In-Line program continues to generate new talent for WWE, keeping the company’s pool of potential stars filled to its brim.
James has been joined by The Undertaker, Booker T, and Bubba Ray Dudley in mentoring the ‘future greats’ though in-ring battles and backstage challenges. With Triple H and Shawn Michaels also playing a role on the show, it remains to be seen which young wrestler earns a contract with WWE.
Jordynne Grace has arrived in WWE NXT and now the former TNA Knockouts World Champion has his sights set on a historic first. On Instagram, Grace declared that she will be the first wrestler in history to hold NXT and TNA Women’s gold.
Grace has already made waves in her efforts to capture a title in NXT. While still holding the TNA Knockouts World Championship, Grace challenged Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Title at Battleground 2024 but was unsuccessful. At the recent NXT Vengeance Day, Grace confronted NXT Women’s Champion Giulia and new NXT Women’s North American Champion Stephanie Vaquer, signalling her desire to hold gold. The show marked Grace’s first appearance for NXT as a WWE Superstar.
While Grace plans to be the first woman to hold TNA and NXT gold, she does have competition. Cora Jade has declared her interest in the TNA Knockouts Title. If succesful, Jade, a former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion, would be the history-maker, instead of Grace.
Grace was a leading woman in TNA Wrestling and plans to re-establish herself at the top of the card now as part of WWE NXT. Whether it is Giulia or Vaquer that the Juggernaut targets first, it may be just a matter of time before Jordynne Grace holds gold in NXT and makes history along the way.
The Nation of Domination were a force to be reckoned with during the Attitude Era and reunited this past weekend in Manchester, England. The quartet of D’Lo Brown, Mark Henry, The Godfather, and Ron Simmons were all guests at For The Love of Wrestling. On X, the convention’s organizers shared a clip of the group’s entrance.
The group didn’t just make a star-studded entrance, but also fielded questions from fans during a Q&A event. Fans were also able to get autographs and photos from the faction’s individual members, as well as as a group photo alongside the four legendary wrestlers.
As their name suggests, the Nation of Domination dominated during the late 90s, with multiple titles to their name. These include D’Lo holding the European Championship on two occasions while The Rock (who would replace Simmons as the faction’s leader in 1998) would hold the Intercontinental Championship.
The Nation were just some of the legends at For the Love of Wrestling, the largest wrestling fan convention in Europe. Attitude Era fans were also given the chance to meet legends including Sting, Mick Foley, and Lex Luger. For fans of more modern-day talents, Tyler Breeze, JDC (fka Fandango), Ash By Elegance (fka Dana Brooke), Heath Slater, and Raj Dhesi were on hand to sign autographs, take photos, and answer questions.
Fans were able to take out their frustrations on a replica Dominik Mysterio at the recent Daytona 500. As part of the massive racing event, those in attendance were given the opportunity to hit the makeshift Dirty Dom with a steel chair. Not only that, but fans were able to create their own unique championship entrance with a makeshift stage of Monday Night Raw on Netflix.
The Dominik dummy certainly caught attention online from both fans familiar with his dastardly deeds and from non wrestling fans. One fan on X (formerly known as Twitter) called this a perfect example of sponsor activation and added that “I’m not into WWE and I think this is fantastic!” Another non fan added that “even I’d be in line for this” and would love to see the “chair goes through the mf.”
WWE’s role at the Daytona 500 continues to demonstrate the company’s mainstream appeal, an appeal that has only grown with the Netflix deal. With fans and non-fans alike ready to pummel Dominik Mysterio, the Judgment Day star may want to be careful out in public, especially if he’s at any future Nascar events.
‘Timeless’ Toni Storm’s return to Australia proved to be a triumph as she regained the AEW Women’s World Championship at Grand Slam. In the show’s main event, Storm dethroned Mariah May, who had held the title since All In: London 2024, where she had defeated Storm.
Storm and May traded momentum and it would be a surprise roll-up that would give the Timeless One the win. With her victory, Storm has become the first-ever four-time Women’s World Champion. On X (fka Twitter) made note of Storm’s record-shattering achievement.
In the comments, fans quickly speculated that the finish, a small package, will set up a rematch between the two for the gold. While such a match has yet to be confirmed, fans can expect May to be hungry for another showdown with her former mentor.
May’s reign had seen her retain against the likes of Anna Jay, Thunder Rosa, Willow Nightingale, and her STARDOM ally Mina Shirakawa, among others. Now that Storm once again holds the gold, it remains to be seen what’s next for the Glamour and her former ‘mentor’ post-Grand Slam: Australia.
Harley Cameron’s homecoming did not go as planned at AEW Grand Slam: Australia as she was unable to capture the TBS Championship. Arguably the biggest sentimental favorite going into Grand Slam, Cameron arrived to a hero’s welcome in the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Harley Cameron has returned HOME for the BIGGEST CHALLENGE of her career!
The two women traded momentum, with Cameron’s puppet of the CEO also coming into play. Mercedes Moné would punt her miniature doopelganger into the second row, riling up the crowd, who were already firmly behind Harley, even further.
Despite Cameron’s best efforts, Moné won with her Mone Maker, earning her 14th consecutive TBS Championship defense. Though she didn’t linger in the ring with Cameron following her victory, the champ gloated in front of STARDOM’s Momo Watanabe, who was sitting ringside.
Cameron coming up short will come as a disappointment to many but only proves that The CEO is ready to dash the hopes of all challengers, even in their home country. It remains to be seen who will ultimately end Moné’s impressive title reign, and whether it could be Watanabe who takes the TBS gold.
WWE NXT Vengeance Day saw the arrival of a new faction, one that many fans compared to The Shield on social media. With the NXT Tag Team Titles on the line, Fraxiom retained against Josh Briggs and Yoshiki Inamura. After the match, the group, which has been teased for weeks on WWE NXT, struck.
This wouldn’t be the only appearance by the faction. After Oba Femi retained the NXT Championship against Grayson Waller and Austin Theory, he too was attacked by the group.
On social media, many compared this new faction to The Shield, the iconic trio of Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Dean Ambrose (now Jon Moxley) fans pointed out the group’s use of all black attire, their skull masks, and their use of a multi-man powerbomb as nods to The Shield. In several posts on X, many branded the group ‘Shield 2.0’ while others saw the group as the next Retribution.
Questions remain about the group and their intentions, but at least one member has been confirmed. After Corey Graves made reference to Dion Lennox being part of the faction. Lennox shared a photo from the group, making his involvement crystal clear.
Whatever the group has planned, their impact at NXT Vengeance Day can’t be denied. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from this faction that is poised to shake things up on the silver brand.
WWE Superstar Bayley was able to show her skills on the court as part of this year’s NBA All Star Celebrity game. Playing as part of Team Jerry Rice, Bayley took to X (fka Twitter) before the big game to share her excitement.
Before the game got started, Bayley had quite the entrance and introduction. The former WWE Women’s Champion came off the bench in the first half and started in the second half.
Despite a strong effort, Bayley didn’t score any points and her team would lose 66-55 to the team coached by Barry Bonds. On X, Bayley shared one aspect of the game that’ll haunt her for the rest of the week.
I had one shot. One opportunity. To score on Baron Davis, and I missed it.
With her NBA debut in the rear-view mirror, Bayley now looks towards WWE NXT Vengeance Day where she will challenge Giulia for the NXT Women’s Title in a match that’ll include Roxanne Perez. With an Elimination Chamber match also in the Role Model’s future, Bayley is certainly being kept busy back in her home of professional wrestling.
Penina Tuilaepa isn’t just another Performance Center prospect—she’s setting her sights on becoming WWE’s next GUNTHER. In a preview clip for WWE LFG, Tuilaepa made her bold comparison to WWE’s reigning World Heavyweight Champion.
“I see myself the most like Gunther. Same stature, big fella. I’m a big girl. I think his technique is top-tier. He does all the little things right, and in the end, that’s all that matters.
People can have the glitz and glam, the body, and whatnot, but if you can’t wrestle in the ring, if you can’t do all the little things right, then what are you really here for?”
Tuilaepa is set to make a strong first impression when WWE LFG premieres on February 16 on A&E. The show will follow Performance Center recruits as they navigate WWE’s grueling training system, with wrestling legends like Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Booker T, Bubba Ray Dudley, Mickie James, and The Undertaker guiding them along the way.
Tuilaepa isn’t just going to talk a big game but she’s ready to prove she can be WWE’s next powerhouse in the women’s division With WWE LFG set to showcase her journey, all eyes will be on whether she can back up her bold comparrison to the World Heavyweight Champion.
Tom Pestock’s WWE departure in 2024 was influenced by a single individual, according to the former Superstar. During an appearance on Busted Open Radio, Pestock, previously known as Baron Corbin, discussed his release.
“I believe there’s one person that made this decision or influenced this decision, and I think that’s what put me in the position I’m in now.”
Rather than being discouraged, the former U.S. Champion is using his release as motivation, stating he’s “not gonna let one person control me or my fate or my destiny.” Pestock vowed to demonstrate WWE’s error in releasing him, adding that “it’ll come back on them, whoever that person is.”
Pestock remains confident that his future accomplishments will make WWE regret their decision and potentially seek to bring him back. However, if a return does materialize, fans should expect a different persona entirely.
“Maybe that door will open again and they’ll say, ‘Hey man, come on back.’ But if they do, they’re not getting Baron Corbin. That man is dead. They’re getting Bishop Dyer.”
The emergence of Bishop Dyer represents a fresh start for Pestock following his 12-year tenure with WWE. Having already made his mark at GCW Bloodsport, Dyer is determined to show WWE—and one particular decision-maker—the magnitude of their mistake.
