SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Spoilers: Nic Nemeth Makes In-Ring TNA Debut, Cuts Emotional Promo

    Nic Nemeth had plenty to say about his past, his future, and TNA Wrestling in his first promo for the company. 

    In the main event of TNA Hard to Kill, Moose dethroned Alex Shelley to become the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion. After the match, Nemeth made his debut by confronting the new champion in the ring. 

    Nic Nemeth’s First TNA Promo

    Last night, TNA taped their Snake Eyes event, which saw Nemeth in action. During the show, Nemeth cut a promo in front of the fans. The former Superstar reflected on his debut the night prior and how he’s feeling right now. 

    “Hard to Kill was one hell of a moment, wasn’t it? TNA is back baby. From the opening match to that main event, there was something in the air and damn it, I loved every second.

    “I’ve been very fortunate. I’ve done 19 years, and a hell of a lot of events. I was very fortunate to rack up a lot of accomplishments in 19 years but I did it all in one world. I got some emotions running through. You said I still got it, I never lost it!

    “I’m intimidated. I’m scared. I’m nervous. I’m excited. And make no mistake about it, I picked my time and place. I showed up in this ring and I lined up face to face with the TNA world champion. I am going to become TNA world champion. I am going to celebrate with each and every one of you!

    “I respect the men and the women of this locker room way too much to stroll in here and demand a world title match and get it. This is my day one. This is my first day right here, right now, doing it all over again. It starts here, right now. This time, I earn it all the way to the top.

    “I promise I will do it again. I’ve done it in the past and I will never stop. It’s the first time in my life that I do it as Nic Nemeth!”

    Nemeth’s Debut Match

    Nic Nemeth did more than just talk during the TNA Snake Eyes taping. During the show, Nemeth defeated Zachary Wentz in his first match outside of WWE in decades. One fan who attended said the match was good and added that Wentz controlled the action early on. You can check out some photos from the match and Nemeth’s entrance below. 

    It’s not just TNA Wrestling where fans can see the ‘Wanted Man’… 

    H/T – No DQ

  • Shad Gaspard Memorial Cup Announced in Tribute to Hero Wrestler

    Shad Gaspard Memorial Cup Announced in Tribute to Hero Wrestler

    An eight-man tournament in memory of the late Shad Gaspard will begin later this year, it has been confirmed.

    Gaspard is best known for his time in WWE where he competed as part of the Cryme Tyme faction. In 2020, Gaspard heroically gave his life to save his son when they were caught in a rip current at Venice Beach. After his passing, a petition was made seeking to create more safety features at beaches to avoid similar tragedies. 

    In 2022, Shad was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as that year’s Warrior Award recipient. Shad was represented by his wife Siliana, his son Aryeh, and long-time tag-team partner JTG. 

    The Shad Gaspard Memorial Cup Tournament 

    In a video shared by the Love Alive Charity, D’Angelo Dinero spoke about how Shad gave so much to those around him. Dinero also spoke about Shad giving “the ultimate gift” as a father to his son.  Dinero added that Shad’s memory and impact on wrestling and those who knew him best will live on forever. 

    With the permission of Shad’s wife Siliana Gaspard, D’Angelo announced the Inaugural Shad Gaspard Memorial Cup Tournament for April 20. The tournament will be hosted by the Love Alive Charity. Dinero said that the tournament will allow those involved to “let out our inner beast” for a good cause. 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C2D-LPhOSR2

    The tournament will take place at the Murray Hill Baptist Church Gymnasium in Jacksonville, Florida. Doors for the show will open at 6 pm local time, with bell time at 7 pm.

     

  • Dax Harwood: AEW Dynamite is the Sports Entertainment Show, Collision is for Sport

    Dax Harwood: AEW Dynamite is the Sports Entertainment Show, Collision is for Sport

    Fans can find a more sports-orientated product on AEW Collision compared to the show’s Wednesday-night counterpart, according to Dax Harwood. 

    AEW Collision launched in June of last year, becoming the promotion’s third weekly wrestling show on TV. Collision follows on from Dynamite (launched in 2019) and Rampage (launched in 2021.) 

    Dax Harwood on Collision and Dynamite

    FTR has been a staple of AEW Collision since the beginning. The pair quickly became allies of CM Punk when Punk returned to AEW programming as part of the first Collision. Speaking to WTKR, Dax Harwood compared Collision to Dynamite. 

    “Dynamite could be more of your sports entertainment based show and I think Collision is more of your sports based show. On Collision, we like to feature that knockdown, drag out hard-hitting style.”

    Cash Wheeler also had praise for AEW’s newest weekly TV show. 

    “They’re really fun shows, especially on a Saturday night. There’s plenty of time to come in, have a great time, and get out by 10:00 and still have your Saturday night.”

    The Ultimate Goal

    For FTR, being one of the top teams in professional wrestling is nothing short of a dream come true. In the interview, Harwood said as a kid, he dreamed of being a wrestler or a power ranger. 

    “I was allowed to be a professional wrestler. Living that dream on national television every single week, the greatest tag team of all time, ten time world tag team champions, those are the things that you dream about.”

    Wheeler chimed in about the impact wrestling has had on them and what is the ultimate goal.

    “Wrestling has legitimately saved our lives. To leave wrestling better than we found is the ultimate goal.”

    Has FTR figured out the ‘real’ reason for Eric Bischoff’s criticism of AEW? 

  • TNA Wrestling Announces Partnership with Lucha Libre AAA at Hard to Kill

    TNA Wrestling Announces Partnership with Lucha Libre AAA at Hard to Kill

    The new era of TNA Wrestling will see the promotion work alongside Lucha Libre AAA to bring the most exciting stars of both companies to a greater number of fans. 

    During Hard to Kill, TNA President Scott D’Amore and Lucha Libra AAA Worldwide CEO Dorian Roldán Peña appeared in front of the fans in Las Vegas, Nevada. D’Amore said that TNA has already been about collaboration and spoke about the mutually beneficial partnership TNA and Lucha Libre AAA have enjoyed over many years. 

    Roldán Peña thanked Scott for inviting AAA to TNA, and said he has been thinking about how he could bring more luchadors and Lucha Libre to the U.S. He added that with the flair of Lucha Libre AAA stars and the intensity of TNA talent, they will change the landscape of wrestling over the next year. 

    TNA Wrestling & Lucha Libre AAA

    This upcoming partnership will hardly be the first time that the two promotions have teamed up. TNA Wrestling and Lucha Libre AAA began a working agreement in 2015, and in 2018, announced a partnership with the AAA-affiliated Lucha Underground. This allowed for AAA wrestlers to appear for TNA (IMPACT Wrestling at the time) on a regular basis. 

    In April 2018, the two promotions held Impact vs Lucha Underground from WrestleCon in New Orleans to a sell-out crowd. The following year, IMPACT and Lucha Libre AAA would co-promote the Ultra Clash supershow in the Monterrey, Mexico area. This event marked IMPACT’s first show in Mexico since 2019. 

    TNA Hard to Kill went off the air with a massive debut… 

  • WWE’s Dana Brooke Arrives in TNA Wrestling as Ash by Elegance

    Former WWE Superstar Dana Brooke will bring her own sense of elegance to TNA after making her debut at Hard to Kill.

    TNA Hard to Kill took place last night and marked the official relaunch of the promotion. The change from IMPACT to TNA Wrestling was announced at Bound for Glory in October 2023. As Alex Shelley told SE Scoops, the fan response to the change was even better than the high expectations those in TNA/IMPACT had for the move. 

    Ash By Elegance Arrives in TNA Wrestling

    At TNA Hard to Kill, Trinity lost the TNA Knockouts World Championship to Jordynne Grace. Before the match began though, Brooke appeared in the crowd, with a nameplate reading ‘Ash by Elegance.’ The former Superstar was certainly dressed to impress at the show, wearing a bedazzled outfit and white fur coat. 

    In a bold move, the TNA commentary team made reference to her time as Dana Brooke and mentioned both her WWE name and her former employer, by name. 

    Ash By Elegance

    This was Ash’s first appearance in wrestling since her release from WWE in September 2023. Ash had been part of the NXT roster at the time of her release. During a media call, NXT head Shawn Michaels admitted that her release caught him and the NXT backstage team by surprise. 

    Ash By Elegance competed for WWE from 2015 until last year. During her tenure, she became a 15-time WWE 24/7 Champion. She would also rack up the second-most days with the gold, only behind R-Truth. 

  • Trinity Gets Emotional After Knockouts Title Loss at TNA Hard to Kill, Wants Rematch

    Trinity Gets Emotional After Knockouts Title Loss at TNA Hard to Kill, Wants Rematch

    TNA Wrestling’s Trinity was understandably emotional after losing her Knockouts World Championship at Hard to Kill 2024. 

    In the penultimate match of the evening, Trinity lost the title to Jordynne Grace in 14:30. Grace earned a shot at the gold by winning the Call Your Shot Gauntlet at Bound for Glory in October 2023. She was the first woman to win the Call Your Shot Gauntlet. Last night’s victory marks Grace’s third Knockouts World Championship win after previously capturing the gold in January 2020 and at Slammiversary in June 2022. 

    Trinity Reacts 

    Trinity had held the Knockouts World Championship since Slammiversary 2023 when she dethroned Deonna Purrazzo in July of that year. Understandably, the Glow was emotional after her title loss, as seen in clips shared online. 

    What’s Next for Trinity? 

    Trinity’s Knockouts World Championship has ended and she’s hungry to regain the gold. On Twitter, Trinity made it clear she wants a rematch with Jordynne Grace. 

    Leaving TNA Wrestling? 

    Trinity left Hard to Kill without the Knockouts World Championship and could be leaving TNA Wrestling altogether soon enough. Trinity is expected to finish her TNA run at the promotion’s next set of tapings. She is also expected to make her return to WWE later this month as part of the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

    Trinity, then Naomi, walked out of WWE in May 2022 alongside Mercedes Mone (Sasha Banks). The two had different ideas about the creative plans at the time. The then-WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions felt that their title run was being overlooked as WWE had plans for singles feuds for both women. 

    Trinity isn’t the only surprising name the WWE Universe should expect to see at the Royal Rumble… 

  • Nic Nemeth Debuts at TNA Hard to Kill, First Match Announced

    Nic Nemeth Debuts at TNA Hard to Kill, First Match Announced

    The ‘Wanted Man’ of professional wrestling Nic Nemeth has arrived in TNA Wrestling after making his debut for the promotion at the Hard to Kill event. 

    In the main event of TNA Hard to Kill, Moose dethroned Alex Shelley to become the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion. After the match, Nemeth made his debut by confronting the new champion in the ring. 

    Watch Nic Nemeth’s TNA Debut

    Things got physical between the two and Nemeth would get the best of Moose. After the brawl, Nemeth went into the crowd and ripped off his shirt to reveal a TNA shirt underneath. 

    Nemeth’s First TNA Match

    Nic Nemeth made quite the ‘impact’ with his TNA Wrestling debut, and it won’t be long before fans see him in the ring. It has been confirmed that Nemeth will compete at the TNA Snake Eyes event that’ll take place in Las Vegas today. Nemeth will take on The Rascalz’ Zachary Wentz. 

    Wrestling’s ‘Wanted Man’

    Nemeth is best known for his time with WWE as Dolph Ziggler, a run that saw him become a two-time WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Dolph Ziggler was among those released by WWE in September 2023, as part of the first wave of cuts following the launch of TKO Group Holdings. 

    The release of the Show-Off led to several people in the industry sharing tributes to his WWE run, including John Cena. Nemeth has since admitted that he was being paid to sit at home and do nothing during the latter stages of his WWE career. More recently, Nemeth reintroduced himself as wrestling’s ‘Wanted Man’ with a zombie-apocalypse-themed video. 

    TNA Wrestling isn’t the only place fans can see Nic Nemeth… 

  • “Just One More Pay-Off” – ECW Legend Sabu Hopes to Have Final Match in 2024

    “Just One More Pay-Off” – ECW Legend Sabu Hopes to Have Final Match in 2024

    Fans will have one last chance to see wrestling legend Sabu in the ring if everything goes to plan for the ECW staple. 

    Known throughout his career for being homicidal, genocidal, suicidal, and death-defying in the ring, Sabu is synonymous with extreme wrestling. In the original ECW, Sabu would become a two-time World Heavyweight Champion and would hold the World Tag Team Championships three times, twice with RVD and once with Taz. Sabu was also part of the first year of the relaunched ECW when WWE brought the company back as a brand in 2006.

    Last year, Sabu would arrive in AEW as an ally of Adam Cole. The Devil was feuding with Chris Jericho at the time and Sabu proved to be backup for Cole’s Unsanctioned Match with Jericho at that year’s Double or Nothing event. 

    Sabu Planning for his Final Match

    During a recent edition of the Brisco and Bradshaw podcast, Sabu admitted that he wants to wrestle again but is only seeking one more match before he calls it a career. 

    “I’m actually hopefully setting up for my final match. I wanna do maybe a final match maybe in July or later. A real final match. Just one more pay-off.” 

    There’s no word on who Sabu will be facing in this final match if it happens at all. Last June, Sabu said he’d love to face Brock Lesnar in his final match. Sabu explained that Lesnar does stuff he doesn’t, and he does stuff Brock doesn’t, which would make the pair gel in the ring. 

    Could Sabu soon receive one of the highest honors WWE can bestow on a wrestler… 

  • Brandi Rhodes In Us Weekly, Maven’s Most Painful Finisher, WWE/AEW Lawsuit & More

    Brandi Rhodes In Us Weekly, Maven’s Most Painful Finisher, WWE/AEW Lawsuit & More

    Brandi Rhodes’ Yoga Studio is Featured

    Brandi Rhodes hasn’t appeared on WWE TV (yet!) since leaving AEW, but she is making waves outside of the ring. Rhodes recently opened up her own Yoga studio after getting certified to teach Yoga. This week, Rhodes was thrilled to see her work featured in Us Weekly. 

    Maven on the Most Painful Finishers

    It’s been years since Maven Huffman competed in a WWE ring, but the Tough Enough winner will never forget being leveled by Batista. In the latest video from his YouTube channel, Maven recalled the Batista Bomb as one of the most painful finishers to take.

    “It was one of those moves I felt in general, this was a move I took many times from him, and he always delivered safe. When you’re dealing with gravity, and then on top of that, dealing with gravity, and the force from an extremely strong guy, I’ve had funner nights.”

    Update on WWE-AEW Lawsuit

    Anthony Duane Wilson has filed a new lawsuit against WWE and AEW,  which is similar to his past attempts at litigation against both companies. Wilson claims that the idea for AEW was essentially stolen from him by the Bullet Club. He has also accused WWE of stealing his ideas. He is seeking $250 million in damages and control over AEW. 

    Royal Rumble Contract Signing

    Roman Reigns is far from happy that he will defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at the Royal Rumble in a fatal four-way match. During this week’s SmackDown, it was confirmed that a contract signing will happen on next week’s show. 

  • WWE Legend Afa Hospitalized with Pneumonia, Suffers Multiple Heart Attacks

    WWE Legend Afa Hospitalized with Pneumonia, Suffers Multiple Heart Attacks

    WWE Hall of Famer Afa is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia and suffering two heart attacks on the scene. 

    In a message shared on his Facebook page, it was stated that after being taken to hospital with pneumonia, Afa suffered two heart attacks. 

    “Update on Afa the Wild Samoan, affectionately known as Pops: Afa was admitted to the hospital last night with pneumonia, but had a mild heart attack upon arrival. Today, he had a second small heart attack and was sent for a heart catheterization. He is doing ok, his spirits are high. He isn’t out of the woods yet, but will be kept in the hospital for a day or two for observation and monitoring. He thanks everyone for their concern, continued love, and prayers.”

    This is sadly not the first time Afa has dealt with serious medical issues. Last month, Afa had two exploratory heart procedures to check valves. His son Afa Jr. was discharged from hospital in September 2023 after suffering a cardiac incident that left him “fighting for his life.” Afa Jr. is best known for his brief WWE tenure as Manu. 

    Afa the Wild Samoan

    Afa would wrestle for decades in various promotions and alongside Sika would hold tag team gold around the world. In WWE, the pair are three-time WWF Tag Team Champions. In 2007, the duo were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. At WWE Hell in a Cell 2020, the Wild Samoans appeared following Roman Reigns’ victory over Jey Uso and acknowledged Reigns as the Head of the Table. 

  • TKO Group Hires New Chief Legal and Administrative Officer

    TKO Group Holdings has continued to make waves with the hiring of a new Chief Legal and Administrative Officer.

    TKO Group Holdings was launched in September of 2023 and consists of WWE and UFC. In April 2023, it was announced that Endeavor was set to acquire WWE as part of a $9.3 billion deal. Shortly after TKO launched, over 100 employees would be let go from WWE as part of streamlining measures with UFC. It wasn’t long after that WWE released Superstars with Dolph Ziggler, Matt Riddle, and Mustafa Ali all being let go.

    TKO Group Holding’s New Hiring

    Seth Krauss has been brought on board as the new Chief Legal and Administrative Officer of TKO Group Holdings, the company revealed in a statement.  Krauss’ Term Employment Agreement is effective from January 1, 2024 and expires on December 31, 2027. The agreement states that Mr. Krauss may continue to provide services in his role and position at Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc., Endeavor Operating Company, LLC, and their respective subsidiaries. Krauss will report to TKO’s President or Chief Operating Officer Mark Shapiro.

    Krauss will be paid an annual base salary of $2,000,000 for the term.
    Krauss will also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in respect of fiscal year. This annual bonus will be based on the achievement of performance metrics based on TKO performance, as determined by the Governing Body in good faith.

    Krauss will be hoping to have a better start in TKO than WWE’s replacement for Kevin Dunn…

  • Bayley is Ready for Her First Singles Match at WWE WrestleMania

    Bayley is Ready for Her First Singles Match at WWE WrestleMania

    WWE Superstar Bayley may be a founding member of Damage CTRL, but the Role Model is eager for a singles match at WrestleMania 40. 

    WrestleMania 40 will take place from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA on April 6, and April 7, 2024. The show will be WWE’s fifth two-night WrestleMania, a tradition that began in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    Bayley Wants WrestleMania 40

    With WrestleMania 40 still months away, no matches have been confirmed for the show. Plans for WrestleMania 40 will be much clearer after the Royal Rumble PLE set to take place this month. Speaking to Cageside Seats, Bayley shared her excitement about the upcoming Women’s Royal Rumble match and hopes that a win will be the launching point for her first singles match at WWE’s biggest annual event. 

    “Everybody knows that when you win the Royal Rumble, you get to point at the sign and the fireworks go off. That’s the stuff you dream about. I’m excited to feel that. I wanna feel that and I wanna get that singles match at WrestleMania.”

    While Bayley has competed several times at the Showcase of the Immortals, she has yet to have a singles match at WrestleMania. Instead, she has competed in battle royals, six-pack challenges, tag-team matches and won a four-way in 2017 to retain the Raw Women’s Championship. 

    Bayley Reacts to Triple H

    Bayley’s lengthy tenure in WWE (in addition to her exemplary work during the pandemic) has resulted in plenty of praise for the Role Model. During the post-Fastlane press conference, WWE COO Triple H called Bayley the all-star of the Women’s Division, and someone who doesn’t always get the credit she deserves. In the interview, Bayley reflected on the Game’s comment. 

    “I hope he really meant it. It’s all over Twitter, so he can never take it back (chuckles)… to hear [Triple H] say that makes me feel like we’re like right there, because everything he said [at Fastlane] is everything I’m trying to be and more.”

    Bayley has plans to win the Women’s Royal Rumble match, unless… 

  • NWA’s Blk Jeez Survives Being Shot & Attempted Carjacking

    NWA’s Blk Jeez Survives Being Shot & Attempted Carjacking

    NWA wrestler Blk Jeez is lucky to be alive after he was attacked by four assailants this week who tried to steal his car. 

    In a media release, the NWA confirmed that Jeez, real name Darnell Kittrell, was approached by four masked men while in Philadelphia, PA on Thursday night. The men attempted to carjack Kittrell’s vehicle which the wrestler was set in at the time. During the altercation, Kittrell was shot in the hip. 

    Kittrell, who possesses a permit to carry a gun, used his registered firearm to defend himself and returned fire. The suspects fled the scene and investigators are reviewing surveillance footage.  Kittrell was taken to hospital and treated for what was described as non-life-threatening injuries. 

    In a statement, NWA President Billy Corgan said the following: 

    “We stand by Blk Jeez during this challenging time and wish him a swift recovery. His strength and resilience have inspired us all, and we eagerly await his return to the NWA ring. Our thoughts are with him and his family.”

    Blk Jeez’s Prior Battle

    This is the latest setback for Darnell Kittrell who recently battled cancer. In the Spring of 2023, Kittrell was diagnosed with a blood cancer that affects plasma cells in bone marrow. Kittrell was scheduled to return to action at the NWA Paranoia that will take place in Fort Lauderdale, FL. 

    Kittrell said the following in the statement about the shooting/attempted carjacking: 

    “I was looking forward to making my return this weekend. I would love to make the trip regardless of the soreness and pain that I’m in. However, my gut tells me to stay home with my family this weekend. I look forward to making my return at the next NWA event. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”

    We here at SE Scoops would like to wish Kittrell a very speedy recovery after this scary incident. 

  • John Cena’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Film Nominated For Six Awards

    John Cena’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Film Nominated For Six Awards

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, the animated film that features John Cena, is up for several Annie Award nominations. 

    The Annie Awards honors excellence in the field of animation. The 51st annual awards will take place on February 17, from the Royce Hall in Los Angeles, California. 

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem features Cena as the voice of TMNT staple Rocksteady, a mutant Black rhinoceros who is a henchman for the villainous Baxter Stockman. The film has been nominated for Best Feature, Best Direction, Best Music, Best Production Design, Best Editorial, and Best Writing. On Twitter, Cena reacted to the news of the many nominations. 

    TMNT: Mutant Mayhem’s Nominations

    The film is facing some stiff competition in the six awards it is nominated for: 

    BEST FEATURE

    “Nimona”
    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
    “Suzume”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”
    “The Boy and the Heron”

    BEST DIRECTION – FEATURE

    “Nimona”
    “Robot Dreams”
    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”
    “The Boy and the Heron”

    BEST MUSIC – FEATURE
    “Elemental”
    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
    “Suzume”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”
    “The Boy and the Heron”

    BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN – FEATURE
    “Elemental”
    “Nimona”
    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”
    “The Boy and the Heron”

    BEST WRITING – FEATURE

    “Nimona”
    “Robot Dreams”
    “Suzume”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”
    “The Boy and the Heron”

    BEST EDITORIAL – FEATURE
    “Elemental”
    “Leo”
    “Nimona”
    “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
    “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem”

    John Cena has come a long way from his feature-film debut… 

  • Factions of Bobby Lashley & Karrion Kross Get Confirmed New Names

    Factions of Bobby Lashley & Karrion Kross Get Confirmed New Names

    Faction warfare is set to unfold on WWE SmackDown with the groups led by Bobby Lashley and Karrion Kross both getting names this week. 

    Last year, Lashley returned to WWE programming and immediately aligned himself with the Street Profits. The faction has proven to be a force to be reckoned with on SmackDown though have so far been unable to capture championship gold so far. The All Mighty is seeking to bring out a new level of aggression from Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins. 

    Bobby Lashley’s Faction Name

    Before this week’s SmackDown, it was reported that The Pride was the expected name of Lashley’s faction. On Twitter, Lashley confirmed this new name for the group, as he stated in his Twitter bio that he was the leader of The Pride. Interestingly though, Lashley would change his bio shortly after to remove all references to The Pride. His bio currently reads as: 

    #SmackDown’s All-Mighty | Former WWE Champion. MMA Fighter | Professional Wrestler | Business Professional | Nutrabolics Athlete

    Karrion Kross’ New Faction

    Lashley’s faction didn’t confirm its new name on this week’s SmackDown, but Karrion Kross’ group did. On last week’s Smackdown, Kross and the returning AOP attacked Lashley, while Scarlett and Paul Ellering watched on. 

    During this week’s show, Lashley called out AOP and Kross but only received Ellering. The legendary manager pointed to the titantron where a video promo from Kross played. In it, the two-time former WWE NXT Champion confirmed his group’s name as The Final Testament.

    Things didn’t go exactly according to plan during this week’s SmackDown… 

  • CM Punk: I Treat Seth As An Equal, But He Sees Himself As My Little Brother

    CM Punk: I Treat Seth As An Equal, But He Sees Himself As My Little Brother

    Seth Rollins’s aura is that of a younger sibling to CM Punk, or at least that’s the vibe that the Best in the World picks up. 

    Since his shocking return to WWE at Survivor Series, Punk has proven to be a thorn in Rollins’ side. The reigning World Heavyweight Champion has made it clear why he’s against Punk, who for years would put down WWE in public appearances. Rollins has also been shutting down CM Punk chants at events the Best in the World hasn’t been present for.

    CM Punk’s Little Brother

    Rollins and Punk have never been short on words about each other, and this week, Punk tried to delve into what makes Rollins tick. Speaking to The Jackie Redmond Show, Punk said he believes Rollins sees himself as inferior to himself. 

    “We’re very similar. The difference is, I can talk about my career & not have to mention him. He can’t talk about his career without mentioning me. I understand where he’s coming from, you know, I understand, I think he’s always felt like he was the little brother. I’ve never tried to treat him that way, I’ve always tried to treat him like a peer but some people you just can’t reach. He hates me. He hates me, like Colorado Avalanche & Red Wings.”

    What’s Next? 

    CM Punk will compete in the Men’s Royal Rumble match, in what will be his first televised match for WWE since the 2014 Royal Rumble match. Punk has made it no secret that if he wins, he will challenge Rollins. 

    For Punk to challenge Rollins at WrestleMania 40, not only does he need to win the Men’s Rumble match, but Seth will need to remain World Heavyweight Champion. Rollins will defend his title on next week’s Raw against Jinder Mahal in a match that has gotten under the skin of AEW President Tony Khan. 

  • Bayley is Willing to Be Eliminated If a Certain WWE Icon Returns

    SmackDown Superstar Bayley has her sights set on winning her first Women’s Royal Rumble match unless a certain former Superstar makes a return.

    The 2024 Royal Rumble Premium Live Event will take place on January 27, from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The show will be the 37th annual Royal Rumble event and the seventh to feature both a Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble match.

    Bayley Hoping For a Return

    The Royal Rumble match is synonymous with surprise entrants and Bayley hopes this year’s match is no different. While speaking on Gabby AF, Bayley was asked about who she’d like to see in the Women’s Rumble.

    “Whoever wants to do a surprise entrance, just get ready to get thrown out by me. Mickie James is always awesome, I would love to see her again. Her music hits hard.

    “Trish and Lita are always so fun to get those reactions, although they were just around not too long ago, still a good reaction.”

    While Bayley would be fine throwing out Mickie, Trish, or Lita, a returning AJ Lee could prove to be too much for the Damage CTRL member.

    “In an interview I just had, they brought up AJ Lee since CM Punk is here. I wouldn’t mind that.
    I might actually let her throw me over the top rope if she came back. That’s how much I respect her.”

    The 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble Match

    Bayley was the first Superstar to be declared for the Women’s Royal Rumble Match. She is joined by Nia Jax and former Rumble winners Becky Lynch (2019 winner) and Bianca Belair (2021 winner.)

    Some surprise entrants won’t entirely be a surprise…

  • Black Taurus Announces Free Agency After Finishing With AAA

    Black Taurus Announces Free Agency After Finishing With AAA

    Black Taurus is ready to take the wrestling world by storm as a free agent after recently finishing his time with AAA. 

    Taking to Twitter, Black Taurus shared that his time with AAA has come to an end and that he is now a free agent. Taurus made it clear that he will continue to work in the United States as well as Mexico and teased working for AAA’s chief rival at CMLL.

    During his time with AAA, Taurus held the AAA Latin American Champion for 413 days and the AAA World Trios Title for 301 days. One of his final matches for AAA was against El Hijo del Vikingo, who recently broke the record for the longest reign as AAA Mega Champion

    What’s Next for Black Taurus?

    Taurus is now a free agent, but he may not be for much longer. Taurus recently competed for both AEW and Ring of Honor Wrestling. Taurus lost to Vikingo at ROH Final Battle and then on the December 22, 2023, episode of AEW Rampage. 

    Taurus’ future may also be as part of the soon-to-be revamped TNA Wrestling. Taurus has wrestled over 70 matches. for the promotion and made his debut for the company in 2019. He was part of the Decay stable alongside Rosemary, Havok, and Crazzy Steve. His most recent match for the promotion was in November of last year when he lost to Laredo Kidd and Tommy Dreamer. 

    Black Taurus isn’t the only notable free agent on the market right now… 

  • Grayson Waller Just Found Out Nebraska is Real, And it Sucks

    Grayson Waller Just Found Out Nebraska is Real, And it Sucks

    WWE SmackDown Superstar Grayson Waller only recently found out that Nebraska is real and was far from impressed by the state. 

    Taking to Twitter, Waller shared his shock that Nebraska is, in fact, a real place. Waller admitted he thought Nebraska was where one’s destination when you “go through the wardrobe” when that is the fictional land of Narnia. The Australian Superstar was unhappy that the temperature was -12 Fahrenheit (though he insisted on pointing out that it was 9 degrees Celsius.) 

    Waller added that Nebraska is “hands down” the worst place he’s visited in the United States. He went on to say that while Chicago was bad, the city has some history while Nebraska (according to Waller) has no positives. The Superstar ended with a plea to WWE to allow him to return to Australia, saying it was “criminal” for the company to keep him in Nebraska. 

    Pro Wrestling and Nebraska

    While Waller has a less-than-savory view of Nebraska, the Cornhusker State does have ties to the world of professional wrestling. In 1996, WWE held its In Your House 7: Good Friends, Better Enemies event at the Omaha Civic Auditorium. The main event saw Shawn Michaels defeat former friend Diesel to retain the WWF Championship in a No Golds Barred match. 12 years later, Judgment Day 2008 took place from the Qwest Center in Omaha. Triple H defeated Randy Orton in the main event to retain the WWE Championship.

    Nebraska is also the home state of several wrestlers including WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase Sr. The Million Dollar Man is a former WWE Champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010.

    Kevin Owens’ attacks have had a profound effect on the Aussie Superstar… 

  • Anna Jay on Brodie Lee, NWA on CW, Travis Kelce’s mom visits PC & More

    Anna Jay on Brodie Lee, NWA on CW, Travis Kelce’s mom visits PC & More

    Anna Jay Comments on Brodie Lee

    On this week’s AEW Dynamite: Homecoming, Anna Jay wore a shirt in tribute to Brodie Lee, who passed away in December of 2020. Speaking after competing on the show, Jay addressed her time working with the Dark Order leader. 

    “He’s really what started me here in AEW. He was here from the beginning when I was signed at 21, he kind of took me under his wing. I was in the Dark Order to begin with and he’s somebody who kind of showed me what was right… Now not having him is obviously really difficult, but tonight really sparked something in me that I haven’t had since then.”

    NWA on the CW App

    Last year, it was reported that the NWA had reached a deal with the CW, though the promotion has yet to air on TV. This week, the NWA confirmed that all-new NWA programming will be on the CW App starting February 6.

    Travis Kelce’s Mom Comes to the WWE PC

    Pop sensation Taylor Swift’s relationship with San Francisco 49’er Travis Kelce has dominated the headlines as of late, with even Grayson Waller getting in on the fun. Recently, Kelce’s mom visited the Performance Center and snapped a photo with Shawn Michaels. The USA Network made it clear they hope to see more Kelces and Kelce-affiliated people at the PC. 

    WWE Files Trademark

    Dragon Lee has been impressive on the main roster and has been winning over fans with his generosity at WWE live events. This week, WWE filed a trademark on the name of the former NXT North American Champion. The trademark covers the use of his name on merchandise and at wrestling events. 

  • UFC’s Jim Miller on Potential Brock Lesnar Fight: “I Could Kimura Brock”

    UFC fighter Jim Miller won’t back down from Brock Lesnar after recent comments about a potential fight between the two. 

    In 2007, Lesnar joined UFC and would see massive success as part of the promotion. In 2011, the UFC Heavyweight Champion would retire after facing Alistair Overeem. While Brock would lose the fight, he was paid $3 million for the 146-second fight, equivalent to $20,547 per second of action. 

    Brock Lesnar Vs. Jim Miller 

    Recently, Anthony Smith made headlines when he spoke about a fight between UFC fighter Jim Miller and Lesnar, and said that the match would be 50-50. With that said Smith added that he’d give Miller the advantage if he faced Brock on the street. At a pre-fight news conference for UFC Fight Night 234, Miller was asked whether he agreed with Smith. 

    “I’ve trained with plenty of heavyweights through the years. My team now is a little bit smaller than me. Training is training, and I’m not a fan of keeping score, but I’ve trained with plenty of heavyweight world champ grapplers and stuff like that and I’ve subbed ’em out. So I know that if I can isolate something, I could kimura Brock Lesnar.

    “I know that I could because I can lift enough. I can deadlift over 500 pounds. I can straighten the guy’s arm. He can’t single-arm curl 500 pounds. So it’s about isolating and stuff like that. It’s going to suck. I don’t want to be underneath him, but I appreciate the push. We’ll take it: 50/50.”

    For years there has been speculation about Lesnar potentially returning to the Octagon, and it’s not just the fans who are interested… 

  • WWE’s New Head of Media Lee Fitting Named in ESPN-Emmys Scandal, Ineligible for Future Awards

    WWE’s New Head of Media Lee Fitting Named in ESPN-Emmys Scandal, Ineligible for Future Awards

    The WWE career of Lee Fitting is already off to a shaky start after being named as part of a scandal regarding the annual Emmy Awards.

    Fitting joined WWE recently and is the promotion’s new Head of Media and Production. Fitting is replacing Kevin Dunn, who informed WWE last month that he planned to finish with the promotion. Dunn had been one of WWE’s most powerful people not to be a part of the McMahon family. His tenure with WWE began before the first WrestleMania event in 1985. 

    Lee Fitting Named in Scandal

    With Dunn gone, Lee Fitting will be making the big calls regarding WWE production, but his work with WWE won’t result in an Emmy nomination. A report from The Athletic reveals that ESPN (where Fitting had worked) has been inserting fake names in Emmy entries, taking the awards won by some of those imaginary individuals, and having them re-engraved before giving them to on-air personalities.

    ESPN changed the names of several of the hosts and labeled them as affiliated producers, according to The Athletic, with Kirk Herbstreit being referred to as “Kirk Henry” and Lee Corso as “Lee Clark,” among other made-up names. This tactic helped those working on College GameDay to be recognized, despite not being eligible for inclusion in a credit list until last year. 

    When contacted by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, ESPN admitted to using fictitious names. Fitting, among others, has been deemed ineligible for future Emmy participation as part of the punishment handed out for the scheme.

    Lee Fitting’s arrival in WWE has left many in the company resentful… 

  • Nick Aldis Pokes Fun at USA Network Over Tony Khan-Jinder Mahal Beef

    Nick Aldis Pokes Fun at USA Network Over Tony Khan-Jinder Mahal Beef

    WWE SmackDown Nick Aldis has had some fun at the expense of the USA Network following Tony Khan’s outburst about the booking of Jinder Mahal. 

    This week, the AEW President took aim at WWE for booking Mahal in a World Heavyweight Championship match for next week’s Raw. Khan reasons that Mahal shouldn’t be having a title match given his less-than-stellar win/loss record. This led to a backlash among fans, with some pointing at the sudden push of Abadon in the TBS title picture and the sudden push of Hook into the AEW World Championship picture. 

    Nick Aldis & the USA Network

    Tony Khan’s outburst all began in response to a tweet from the USA Network that did not refer to Khan or AEW. The tweet in question was a response to Raj Giri, who brought up the fact that Mahal and Rollins faced off in 2012 over the NXT Championship. The USA Network asked about the Cagematch rating for the match which Khan took as a dig at him. 

    Now, the USA Network is back to getting involved with WWE’s storylines. This week, Zelina Vega tweeted about not getting opportunities on SmackDown, and told Nick Aldis that RAW General Manager Adam Pearce never had any trouble believing in her. This earned a response from Raw’s broadcast partners at the USA Network, who made it clear they’ve always been impressed by Vega’s work. 

    This response wouldn’t go unnoticed by Aldis, who indirectly referred to the Khan-Mahal scandal with his response. 

    As SmackDown GM, it’d do Nick Aldis some good to make friends with those at the USA Network… 

  • Mickie James Joins OVW as Creative Director, Producer, and Head of Female Talent

    Ohio Valley Wrestling will benefit from the expertise of Mickie James now that the veteran has signed with the company. 

    In a press release, OVW confirmed that James will serve as Creative Director and Head of Female Talent, as well as Executive Producer for all OVW wrestling shows. Lead OVW Commentator and Producer Bryan Kennison said the following: 

    “Mickie James is a name synonymous with excellence in the wrestling industry, and we are incredibly excited to be working with her. Her experience, talent, and vision will be invaluable in elevating our programming and our women’s division to new heights.”

    OVW CEO Al Snow had a similar sentiment to James being brought in. He said: 

    “We are not just working with a superstar, we are embracing a vision for the future. Mickie’s influence will transcend the ring. inspiring a new generation of wrestlers and fans alike.”

    On Twitter, Matt Jones, the co-owner of OVW Wrestling, shared his excitement about the news. 

    Mickie James and OVW

    Mickie James is no stranger to Ohio Valley Wrestling as after signing with WWE in 2003, she was sent to OVW which was the promotion’s developmental territory at the time. Highlights of James’ tenure with OVW include winning a Halloween costume contest in October 2004 and defeating Jillian Hall in a $1,000 match the following month. 

    In 2005, James was part of a tournament to crown an OVW Television Champion after the title had been vacated. The only woman in the tournament, James defeated Mike Mondo in the first round before losing to ‘Blaster’ Lashley in the second. She was called up to the main roster that same year. 

    Mickie James is set to work with OVW, but the legend is also set to do big things down under… 

  • “Zero Chance!” X-Pac Denies WWE Royal Rumble Return Rumors

    WWE Hall of Famer Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman won’t be competing in the upcoming Men’s Royal Rumble match, according to the man himself. 

    The 2024 Royal Rumble will take place on January 27, from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The venue was once home to WWE’s Thunderdome. The show will be the 37th Royal Rumble event and the seventh to feature both a Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

    Waltman Denies Royal Rumble Rumors

    Earlier this month, it was rumored that Waltman would be competing in the Men’s Royal Rumble match. If so, the match will be Waltman’s first match in a WWE ring since a May 2002 edition of Monday Night Raw. On Twitter, however, the Hall of Famer downplayed the idea that he’ll be competing. 

    Sean Waltman in the Royal Rumble

    Waltman has competed in three Royal Rumble matches, with two being as X-Pac and one as the 1-2-3 Kid. Over these three appearances, Waltman has spent a total of 24:56 in the Royal Rumble match. His sole elimination came in the 2000 match where X-Pac, the #30 entrant, eliminated his former tag-team partner Kane. 

    Waltman (as X-Pac) also competed in a special Corporation Vs. DX Royal Rumble on Raw in 1999. He lasted 4:10 before being eliminated by the Big Boss Man. 

    Who’s In? 

    While Waltman is denying involvement with this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match, several names have been announced. Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Shinsuke Nakamura, Bobby Lashley, and Drew McIntyre have been announced for the Men’s match. Bayley, Nia Jax, Becky Lynch, and Bianca Belair have declared for the Women’s Royal Rumble match.

    Waltman has been rumored to make a return in the Men’s Royal Rumble match, but he’s not the only one…