SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Sting’s Final Match: What Sting Wants, Last Opponents, Ric Flair & More

    Sting’s Final Match: What Sting Wants, Last Opponents, Ric Flair & More

    AEW gave a big hint as to what Sting’s final match could look like ahead of the Icon’s retirement from the ring in less than two months. 

    In October of last year, it was announced that Sting’s final match would take place at AEW Revolution in March 2024. The show holds significance for Sting, who made his wrestling debut for AEW at the Revolution pay-per-view in 2021. 

    Sting’s Final Wrestling Match

    On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Sting was asked about his final match but was interrupted by the returning Young Bucks. This marked Matt and Nick Jackson’s first appearance for AEW in two months and has left many thinking that Sting’s final match will see the Icon and Darby Allin face the Bucks at Revolution. 

     Sting has had a “major say” in his final match, Fightful Select reports. Sting has said in the past that he didn’t want to wrestle a singles match and would prefer to work a tag-team match. As of a few weeks ago, the plan was for Sting and Allin to face the Bucks and the Icon was “on board” with the idea. 

    Tony Khan & Sting

    Tony Khan sees Sting’s retirement as very important and wants to make sure it’s done correctly and is a fitting send-off for the legendary wrestler. Whatever Sting wants for his last match and the build to it, AEW has been willing to do.

    Whatever Sting wants to do, it likely won’t involve Ric Flair stepping back in the ring. While Flair got physical on this week’s Dynamite, he hasn’t been considered for any actual matches. Flair has been pushing to do more physical things, including the chops and poke to the eye we saw on Dynamite. 

  • TNA Wrestling Unveils New Knockouts World Championship Belt

    TNA Wrestling Unveils New Knockouts World Championship Belt

    Fans have caught their first glimpse of the new TNA Knockouts World Championship which will be defended by Trinity at the upcoming Hard to Kill event. 

    Trinity has held the IMPACT Wrestling Knockouts World Championship since Slammiversary 2023, where she dethroned Deonna Purrazzo. Trinity currently has four successful title defenses to her name. 

    New TNA Knockouts World Championship

    In a video shared on Twitter, TNA President Scott D’Amore spoke about Trinity being an amazing representative of the Knockouts Division. D’Amore then presented Trinity with the new TNA Knockouts World Champion. Trinity was delighted with the new title and called the title “beautiful.”

    The new title features a white strap, which is seemingly a nod to the original TNA Knockouts Championship introduced in 2007. The title also features the new TNA Wrestling logo which will be used on branding going forward. 

    What’s Next for Trinity? 

    Trinity will defend the new TNA Knockouts World Championship at Hard to Kill against former champion Jordynne Grace. A title change could be in the works as it’s been reported that Trinity will be finishing her tenure with IMPACT/TNA at the next tapings. 

    The former Superstar is rumored to be returning to WWE as part of the Women’s Royal Rumble match that will take place on January 27. Trinity (then Naomi) walked out of WWE alongside Mercedes Mone (Sasha Banks at the time) in May 2022 over a difference with the company’s creative plans. Mone would join New Japan Pro Wrestling in January 2023 though her tenure with that promotion has since ended. 

    Trinity isn’t the only TNA star to be getting a new championship… 

  • Olympian Gable Steveson booked for more WWE TV tapings

    Olympian Gable Steveson booked for more WWE TV tapings

    Gable Steveson will continue to appear at WWE SmackDown events, though the Olympian is hardly impressing with his work in the ring. 

    Ahead of last week’s episode of WWE SmackDown, Steveson worked a dark match against Cedric Alexander. Steveson would win the match in his first bout for WWE outside of an NXT-branded show. The match was Steveson’s 13th match since joining WWE in 2021. Steveson currently boasts a 12-0-1 record, with the only blemish on his record being a count-out draw against Baron Corbin in July 2023.

    Gable Steveson at SmackDown

    Steveson’s performance at the latest SmackDown received mixed reviews from those in attendance, with the consensus matching what we’ve heard from sources in the Performance Center. The general gist is that Steveson has a long way to go and is not picking things up as quickly as others with similar amateur credentials. He also has a notable lack of charisma. 

    Despite this, fans can expect to see Gable Steveson at upcoming episodes of SmackDown. The Olympic Gold Medalist is booked for the next few TV events, according to PW Insider. There is no word on him being used during the broadcast, and it is likely his role at these tapings will be in dark matches. 

    What’s Next for Gable Steveson? 

    Outside of these SmackDown appearances, Steveson is not factored into any upcoming creative plans. There’s always the possibility that he could be a part of the upcoming Men’s Royal Rumble match, where he would have the chance to be showcased while also protected. We should stress that this is not something we’ve specifically heard from WWE. 

  • Steph De Lander: Matt Cardona & I Are Equal Partners, We’re Always Thinking Up Big Plans

    Steph De Lander: Matt Cardona & I Are Equal Partners, We’re Always Thinking Up Big Plans

    Steph De Lander is excited for what’s to come in the coming year and has big plans for herself and Matt Cardona. 

    The 26-year-old wrestler has become a force to be reckoned on the independent scene following her release from WWE NXT in 2021. Currently, she holds the Premier Women’s World Championship and has been dubbed the Women’s Internet Champion by Matt Cardona. 

    Steph De Lander on Working with Matt Cardona

    De Lander and Cardona are often a double act on the independents and can often be found aiding the other in matches. Speaking on the Insight podcast, De Lander revealed how she and Cardona came to be working together. 

    “We were on a tour in Australia, I think in March of this year, for World Series Wrestling and he came up to me. We’d met each other once before but it was a hi and bye. But he came up to me and said ‘Hey, I have a question to ask you.’ And instantly, I’m going I’ve done something wrong. I’ve s***-talked someone, I’ve buried myself somehow. I’m about to get yelled at. Instantly it was like, this is negative.

    “And he goes ‘Do you want to work with me on the indies? Do you want to be my heater?’ Are you serious? [Chelsea Green had recently re-signed with WWE] and he’s going what’s next? Actually, before he said that, he asks ‘Question, are you signed anywhere?’ I said no and he said ‘Perfect.’”

    Cardona was willing to give De Lander time to think it over, but the Australian wrestler wasted no time in answering. 

    “[I tell him] Yes, 1000% yes. He goes ‘You can take some time to think it over.’ There’s nothing to think about. What are you talking about?”

    What’s Next for Steph De Lander? 

    After a banner 2023, which saw De Lander become the first independent act to grace PWI’s cover in decades, the young wrestler is excited for what’s next. On the show, De Lander explained how she and Cardona aren’t planning on resting on their current success. 

    “Winding down the year and going into the next year, it’s common for everyone to get kind of reflective. We’ve both been sitting here going ‘Wow, we had such an amazing year. What are we doing next year?’ Because if you’re not going up you start going down. So we’re already brainstorming. Certain places we want to go that we haven’t wrestled at yet. Different countries we want to go to. What can we add to our act? What can we maximize for our social media? What can we be doing more of?

    “Him and I are always thinking of what’s next and what we can be doing more of and we’re never getting complacent. I think that’s why this pairing has worked so well. It’s not one person steering the ship and dragging the other person along. It is a very equal [partnership]. We’re both super motivated.”

    De Lander’s most recent match saw her work an MLW Reload taping, where she defeated Good Brother #3 (Mance Warner.)

    For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

  • AEW Drowns Out Fans During Chris Jericho’s Dynamite Segment

    AEW Drowns Out Fans During Chris Jericho’s Dynamite Segment

    AEW had a unique approach to their production when Chris Jericho made an appearance during the latest episode of AEW Dynamite. 

    The January 10, 2023, edition of Dynamite saw the first appearance of new AEW World Champion Samoa Joe following his victory at Worlds End. Joe was confronted by Swerve Strickland and ‘Hangman’ Adam Page before HOOK got in the face of the champ. A title match between Joe and Hook will take place next week.  

    Chris Jericho at AEW Dynamite

    During the show, Sammy Guevara earned a victory over Ricky Starks, but was attacked by Starks and Big Bill after the match. Chris Jericho would come out to make the save, though his music would play throughout the entire segment. 

    While Jericho’s theme is popular, using Judas throughout an entire segment is a new move by AEW’s production team. On Twitter, many suspected that this done to drown out boos from the crowd for Jericho, or keep fans ready to chant at the former World Champion distracted with singing his theme. 

    You can check out some of the reactions by fans below. 

    https://twitter.com/Gastodon/status/1745279367100424554https://twitter.com/KyleFourReal/status/1745270409610621278

    Chris Jericho Allegations

    It makes sense that AEW would want to drown out fans at AEW Dynamite, given the allegations against Jericho. AEW’s first World Champion allegedly acted inappropriately with Kylie Rae in 2019, which some have claimed led to Rae’s prompt exit from AEW that year. Jericho faced loud “Kylie Rae” and “NDA” chants at AEW Worlds End. Following the show, Tony Khan said that AEW took allegations very seriously but would not speak specifically about Jericho’s situation. 

    Chris Jericho recently had some choice words for Stephen New, the lawyer of CM Punk & Ace Steel connected to Brawl Out… 

  • Is Adam Cole Actually The Devil? One WWE Hall of Famer Doesn’t Think So…

    Is Adam Cole actually the Devil, or is the ‘reveal’ fans saw at AEW Worlds End just the latest chapter in a story yet to be revealed? 

    At the final pay-per-view of 2023, MJF lost the AEW World Championship to Samoa Joe. In the closing moments of the show, the Devil’s henchmen were revealed to be Matt Taven, Mike Bennett, Roderick Strong, and Wardlow. The four men beat down MJF before Cole produced the Devil’s mask, seemingly confirming that he was the one behind the mask. 

    Is Adam Cole the Devil? 

    Since Worlds End, AEW has leaned in heavily to the idea that Cole is the Devil, and has even produced a new t-shirt featuring Cole and the iconic mask. On Busted Open Radio, however, Bully Ray shared his doubts that the former NXT Champion is the mastermind. 

    “Adam Cole has never worn the Devil’s mask. He’s held it up, but he’s never worn it. If he’s the Devil, why has he never worn the Devil’s mask? This kind of goes back to my theory folks, of I think there’s another layer to this. And they’re going to stretch it out.

    “Who that person is? I can’t tell you definitively. If I had to bet a dollar, I’d say it could be MJF. and know you’ve heard me say that before. Or maybe it’s somebody else? But I don’t think we’ve seen the final chapter of the Devil story. Specifically, because I’ve never seen Adam Cole in the mask. Does anybody else feel the same way that I do about the Devil? Do you think there’s another layer to this? We’ve gotta see, we’ve gotta see.”

    Bully Praises AEW Dynamite Match

    Adam Cole didn’t compete on this week’s Dynamite due to his injury, but his friend Roderick Strong was in action. While Strong was victorious against Bryan Keith, Bully Ray was impressed by the efforts of Keith. 

    “The Roderick Strong segment, the Roderick Strong match. Do you know who I want to give some props to tonight? Bryan Keith. Now you might be saying to yourself ‘Uncle Bully, who the hell is Bryan Keith?’ Bryan Keith is the guy that Roderick Strong wrestled tonight and I thought that Bryan Keith did a pretty good job… I got some Bad News Brown vibes from Bryan Keith.”

    What did Adam Cole and others in wrestling have to say after AEW Worlds End… 

    For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.

  • Nic Nemeth Set for New Comedy Film Releasing Next Month

    Nic Nemeth Set for New Comedy Film Releasing Next Month

    Wrestling free agent Nic Nemeth will have the chance to flex his comedic muscles as part of a new film he’s been attached to. 

    Nemeth was released from WWE in September 2023, ending his nearly two-decade career with the Sports Entertainment juggernaut. Nemeth is best known for his time as Dolph Ziggler and is a two-time former World Heavyweight Champion and one-time WWE NXT Champion. The Show-Off was arguably the biggest name cut from WWE last year. 

    Nic Nemeth’s New Comedy Film

    Taking to Twitter this week, Nemeth shared that he has a part in the new comedy film Drugstore June. The former Superstar was pleased to be working with some very funny people and said that the film’s lead Esther Povitsky ‘kills it’ in her role. 

    According to IMDB, Ziggler portrays the role of a deliveryman. Other names attached include Bobby Lee (Pineapple Express), Haley Joel Osment (The Sixth Sense), Beverly D’Angelo (National Lampoon), and James Remar (Miracle on 34th Street). The film is set to be released next month. 

    What’s Next for Nic Nemeth?

    While Nemeth hopes to continue his comedy career, the Show-Off’s first passion remains pro-wrestling. Nemeth made his debut for NJPW at the recent Wrestle Kingdom event, where he brawled with David Finlay. The two will face off at The New Beginning on February 23. There have also been creative pitches within AEW for Nemeth’s arrival though it is unclear if the All-Elite promotion has reached out to the former Superstar at this time. 

    Nic Nemeth wasn’t kept busy during the final months of his WWE career… 

  • Kevin Patrick Needs to Prove He Can Be SmackDown’s Play-by-Play Commentator

    Kevin Patrick Needs to Prove He Can Be SmackDown’s Play-by-Play Commentator

    WWE SmackDown commentator Kevin Patrick now has arguably the most important role of his career, but the pressure is on to prove he belongs. 

    Ahead of the first SmackDown of 2024, Michael Cole was moved off the SmackDown commentary table, leaving Kevin Patrick and Corey Graves as the two announcers of the blue brand. Cole, a veteran of WWE for close to 30 years, is now solely working on Monday Night Raw, where he calls the action alongside Wade Barrett.

    Updated Raw and SmackDown Commentary Teams

    • Raw: Michael Cole and Wade Barrett
    • SmackDown: Kevin Patrick and Corey Graves

    Backstage Reception to Kevin Patrick

    With Cole gone, Patrick is now in the lofty position of being the lead play-by-play announcer for one of the most-watched wrestling shows on the planet. There are individuals within WWE who are closely monitoring Kevin Patrick’s performance, PW Insider reports. 

    There is a general belief within WWE that Patrick needs to demonstrate his abilities and make a strong impression in his new role to solidify his position on Fridays.

    Before coming to the U.S. Patrick studied journalism at Griffith College Dublin, and worked as part of the RTÉ Sport team covering the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. In 2009, Patrick left Ireland for the U.S. and has worked for CNN in the past. He has also worked for FOX Sports and was the commentator for Atlanta United home games on Apple TV+.

    Kevin Patrick isn’t the only notable member of his family. His father Liam was an All-Ireland-winning Gaelic footballer. While Kevin played for Raheny GAA, an injury would cut his athletics career short. 

  • Will Matt Riddle Sign With AEW? Ex-Superstar Shares His Current Priorities

    Will Matt Riddle Sign With AEW? Ex-Superstar Shares His Current Priorities

    Matt Riddle isn’t opposed to joining All Elite Wrestling when the time is right, but it’s not high on the Original Bro’s post-WWE bucket list. 

    Riddle, alongside other wrestlers, was released from the promotion in September, mere days after WWE parted ways with over 100 staff members from their offices in Stamford. Riddle was one of the biggest names released from WWE, a list that includes Dolph Ziggler, Mustafa Ali, Shelton Benjamin, and others. 

    Will Matt Riddle be All-Elite? 

    With his non-compete clause a thing of the past, Matt Riddle has been announced for several shows and events. One place fans have yet to see Riddle however is AEW, which is home to many former Superstars. Speaking during a virtual autograph signing, the former U.S. Champion was asked about potentially being All-Elite.

    “Yeah, honestly, I feel like a lot of the talent when I got released, were going to try to do that. I wanted to think outside the box and maybe not rush right back into doing TV matches. TV is a lot different than wrestling on ppl or the Indies. There are commercials, they cut times, they change things.”

    With Riddle not currently interested in AEW, the King of Bros shared what are his priorities at this time. 

    “For me, right now, New Japan, MLW, the Indies, I can display my art and I’m not under such a crunch of time or requirement. I have a lot more freedom. TNA isn’t out of the picture either. There are certain things I wanted to do. I really wanted to work in Japan and I made that a priority.”

    Matt Riddle plans on wrestling in Japan, and his wish is about to come true… 

  • Backlash in WWE As “Outsider” is Hired to Replace Kevin Dunn

    Backlash in WWE As “Outsider” is Hired to Replace Kevin Dunn

    There have been mixed feelings for the person chosen to replace Kevin Dunn as WWE’s Head of Media and Production. 

    Dunn left WWE last month, ending his lengthy tenure that began before the first WrestleMania event. Dunn was said to be unwavering in his stance not to comply with dictated directives and preferred his previous hands-on approach to production oversight.

    Internal Backlash to Kevin Dunn’s Replacement

    With Dunn gone, WWE has brought in Lee Fitting as the new Head of Media and Production. This has earned some backlash from those within WWE, PW Insider reports. Some have expressed discontent with an “outsider” assuming a leadership role. Executive Vice President of Television Chris Kaiser and Lighting/Set Director Jason Robinson are being touted as worthy internal candidates who could have replaced Dunn. There are also concerns that Fitting could bring in external personnel of his own, potentially affecting WWE staff. 

    Not everyone is so against WWE’s new Head of Media and Production. Some have adopted a wait-and-see approach to see how Fitting takes to his new role. 

    Who is Lee Fitting? 

    Fitting joins WWE from ESPN where he spent 25 years overseeing production on shows such as Monday Night Football, College GameDay, and the College Football Playoff. In a statement issued this week, WWE President Nick Khan described Lee as a “tremendous addition to our stellar media and production team and play a key role in helping catapult WWE’s growth.”

    WWE was hoping to keep Dunn around for longer than he planned… 

  • WWE’s Post-9/11 SmackDown Was Tough But Brought the Roster Closer Than Ever

    Shawn Stasiak was honored to be a part of the first SmackDown after the September 11 attack in 2001, a role he did not take lightly. 

    The September 13, 2001, edition of SmackDown was the largest gathering on U.S. soil following the attack on the World Trade Center in New York City, New York. The show featured several tributes from wrestlers and on-screen personalities as well as a heartfelt rendition of America the Beautiful by then-ring announcer Lilian Garcia to open the show. 

    Shawn Stasiak on WWE’s Post-9/11 SmackDown

    During the September 13, SmackDown, Stasiak, a comedy goofball on-screen worked with The Rock, whom he had a mini-feud with at the time. Speaking to Sportskeeda this week, Stasiak reflected on the show and being able to be a sense of relief at a dark time in American history. 

    “I got to work with The Rock and also I got to play a character role that was, yes the comical relief of the show, maybe I wasn’t crazy about it. But to be part of that special night, to be able to put smiles on faces, to be able to make people laugh for a moment during my segment. I did my job. I did my part. I played my role.”

    Stasiak, like many in the States, learned of the attack on that fateful Tuesday morning and watched the tragedy unfold live. With a numb feeling, Stasiak went to a nearby workout center, where he found Vince McMahon. 

    “I remember going into the fitness room and seeing Vince McMahon there and I remember him just sitting on the floor with his back up against the wall just staring at the TV monitor uh during the CNN Network. I don’t know what news it was but it was a major news network. He was just sitting there just nodding his head in disgust and saying ‘Those b***rds! Those b***rds and I think that’s how we all felt.”

    Being Brought Together

    After the attack, businesses and events immediately shut down fearing that another attack was coming. After much deliberation, the decision was made for the show to go on and SmackDown was held in Houston, Texas. In the video, Stasiak recalls this being a tough time but how the tragedy ironically brought the roster closer together. 

     “It was a tough time but at the same time ironically it really brought all of us closer together. Really like one big family to be honest. The people that you were already close with or that you traveled with you became even closer. The ones that maybe you didn’t care for, I mean in this business you don’t have to always like the person you’re doing business with, that happens all the time in this business.

    “But it just made you realize [what is really important.] It’s unfortunate that sometimes there has to be a traumatic event or something of that nature to take place for you to just bring things out into what matters and what’s important and I think that just brought us all together closer.”

    For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

  • Madi Wrenkowski Makes Appearance for WWE NXT Ahead of 1/9 Show

    Madi Wrenkowski Makes Appearance for WWE NXT Ahead of 1/9 Show

    An interesting name appeared for WWE NXT ahead of this week’s episode of the gold brand, one who fans may be seeing much more of going forward. 

    The January 9, 2023, episode of WWE NXT saw the gold brand continue forward after last week’s New Year’s Evil episode. In the main event of the show, Dragon Lee retained the NXT North American Championship against Lexis King. Lee had missed the previous week’s episode due to Visa issues. After the match, Oba Femi cashed in his Men’s Breakout Tournament win to dethrone Lee and become the new champion. 

    A Notable Name At WWE NXT

    Ahead of this week’s show, the NXT Anonymous account shared a video of Jacy Jayne and Thea Hail speaking with Chase U students. One person who was listening closely was Madi Wrenkowski who has been on WWE’s radar for some time. 

    Wrenkowski was part of a WWE tryout in September 2023 that included Richard Holliday and “HollyHood” Haley J. While it was reported by other outlets shortly after that she had been signed, it was later clarified that a deal had not been reached at that time. 

    Madi Wrenkowski In the Ring

    Wrenkowski is a former MPW Tag Team Champion and won the titles with Rache Chanel in May of 2022. Their reign was the longest in the short history of the promotion. Wrenkowski vacated her title last month, which sparked more speculation that she had signed with WWE. 

    Wrenkowski was also NWA Women’s Tag Team Champion from February to August of this year and held the titles with Missa Kate. The pair lost the titles at the NWA 75th Anniversary show on August 27, 2023, in St. Louis, MO. She has also appeared on episodes of AEW Dark. 

  • Investors Interested in Sukeban, Promotion Looking to Sign Free Agents

    Investors Interested in Sukeban, Promotion Looking to Sign Free Agents

    The Sukeban wrestling promotion is drawing some serious interest from investors which could lead to a crop of new signings. 

    Sukeban was announced in September 2023 and would host its first event that same month. The name itself means “delinquent girl” or “girl boss” and stems from the name Japanese women wrestlers were known as during an era when female wrestling was outlawed in the country. The promotion aims to bring a unique style of Japanese women’s wrestling to the United States. 

    Interest in Sukeban

    After hosting its second event last month in Miami, Sukeban is drawing some significant interest, PW Insider reports. Sources in Japan have indicated that there are investors in the country who have approached Sukeban management due to the attention it has received from mainstream outlets. The New York Times and Vogue are just some of the outlets that have covered Sukeban. The engagement that Sukeban has received on social media has also not gone unnoticed. 

    Sukeban’s unique approach to its production such as costumes, makeup, the Championship Title design and more has drawn attention from outlets, with many big names in the art and fashion world getting involved. The company is being seen as finding ways to “reinvent” the live event experience, with several notable experiences at its inaugural event. Attendees were greeted by a Japanese street fair and free popcorn before the action began.  

    Sukeban’s next event will take place in Los Angeles. There have been talks about a return to New York City, where the first event was held. 

    New Talent

    With the possibility of major investments, sources in Japan have noted that Sukeban is hoping to sign additional talent and is keeping an eye on which talents may become available in the weeks to come. 

    Which free agents could Sukeban have their eyes on? We may have an idea… 

  • AEW Star Hopes For Less Tribalism Amid Tony Khan-Jinder Mahal Conflict

    AEW Star Hopes For Less Tribalism Amid Tony Khan-Jinder Mahal Conflict

    One All Elite Wrestling star is hoping to see less tribalism among wrestling fans, following the recent furor over the booking of Jinder Mahal. 

    On this week’s WWE Monday Night Raw, Mahal confronted World Heavyweight Champion Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins. After a verbal back-and-forth, the pair brawled. It was later confirmed that a title match would take place between the pair on next week’s episode of the Red brand. 

    AEW star Wants Less Tribalism

    The booking of Mahal hasn’t gone unnoticed by AEW President Tony Khan, who has had some choice words for the use of the Modern-Day Maharajah. Khan took aim at Mahal, the USA Network, and Eric Bischoff in his latest Twitter outburst. In response, Mahal questioned as to who FTW Champion Hook is in a post that has since been deleted. 

    Now, AEW star Dustin Rhodes has weighed into the matter. While not addressing Khan’s comments of the various responses, Rhodes asked for fans to just enjoy wrestling, and to “lighten up on the tribalism.”

    WWE commentator Corey Graves would have his own response to the controversy.

    Tony Khan’s Twitter

    This is hardly the first time that Tony Khan has run his mouth on social media. When AEW Dynamite and WWE NXT went head-to-head last October, Khan took aim at WWE and dubbed Triple H and Shawn Michaels “bald a**holes.” Khan did a lot of talking in the run-up to the head-to-head, so it was pretty embarrassing when NXT comfortably beat Dynamite. While NXT scored one of its highest ratings of all time, AEW Dynamite scored its worst score in close to two years. 

  • Katsuyori Shibata Plans to End His Wrestling Career in AEW

    Katsuyori Shibata doesn’t know when his wrestling career will come to an end but intends to spend the rest of his career in AEW. 

    Shibata officially became All-Elite last month but has been competing for the promotion since 2022. Merely getting to this point is a huge feat for Shibata, who suffered a subdural hematoma in 2017 after a bout with Kazuchika Okada. At the time, it was thought that Shibata’s career had ended, but he would make a return to the ring at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 16 in early 2022. 

    Katsuyori Shibata Wants to End His Career in AEW

    Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Shibata commented on his health and his tenure with AEW thus far, compared to his run with New Japan. 

    “I can’t work as an affiliated fighter. I guess that (New Japan’s decision) is not wrong. But if there is no place for me, then there is no reason for me to be here. I’ve regained a lot of my senses after competing in AEW, and I feel like I want to finish my career here.”

    Shibata was also asked about his health. 

    “I’ve been checked by a doctor, and I’ve given him a medical certificate. If I don’t clear it, I can’t compete.”

    Shibata’s most recent match took place on the November 25, episode of AEW Rampage, where he lost the ROH Pure Championship to Wheeler Yuta. He has also challenged for the AEW International Championship and the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship. 

  • Cody Rhodes: CM Punk’s Great & The Rock Electrifies, But I’m Not Flinching

    Cody Rhodes: CM Punk’s Great & The Rock Electrifies, But I’m Not Flinching

    Cody Rhodes won’t let the recent returns of CM Punk and The Rock deter him from finishing the story and becoming a WWE World Champion. 

    Since returning to WWE, Rhodes has made it clear he plans on winning the title that his father never officially held. At the 2023 Royal Rumble event, Rhodes won the Men’s Rumble match, earning a shot at Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. At WrestleMania 39, Rhodes would fail to ‘finish the story’ in a shocking loss that left those in the industry in awe. 

    Cody Rhodes Isn’t Flinching

    Up until a few weeks back, it seemed a certainty that Rhodes would win the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble and finally dethrone Reigns at WrestleMania 40. Unfortunately for the American Nightmare, the return of CM Punk at Survivor Series as well as the return of The Rock on the Day 1 Raw has left his future less clear. 

    Though his long-awaited win over Roman Reigns appears to be slipping away, Cody Rhodes remains defiant that he can stand up to any WWE Superstar put in front of him. The American Nightmare made that clear when speaking with SI. 

    “The Rock is The Great One–he’s still electrifying. CM Punk is one of the greatest stars in the history of wrestling. I know what I’m up against. Look at the roster–it’s loaded with stars. But that doesn’t bother me. I’m not flinching. I’m not rooting against anyone else, I’m just working to make it happen.”

    No matter what comes next for Cody Rhodes, expect the American Nightmare to be his always-generous self… 

  • Shelton Benjamin’s First Post-WWE Booking Revealed

    Shelton Benjamin’s First Post-WWE Booking Revealed

    Shelton Benjamin is coming to Pro Wrestling REVOLVER’s upcoming event in March, in his first booking since his release from WWE. 

    The Gold Standard was among those released in September 2023, in the first wave of cuts following the launch of TKO Group Holdings. Benjamin’s most recent tenure with WWE kicked off in 2016 though he wouldn’t compete until the following year. During this run, Benjamin held the Raw Tag Team Championships (with Cedric Alexander) and the 24/7 Championship. 

    Benjamin’s Post-WWE Booking

    Shelton Benjamin will be a part of the REVOLVER ‘Ready or Not’ event on March 16, the promotion has confirmed. Fans will have the chance to meet the former Superstar before the show. 

    Wrestling REVOLVER: Ready or Not

    Fans will be able to watch Benjamin’s match, and the rest of the show, on Triller TV+ (formerly Fite TV). The show will take place at the Horizon Events Center in Clive, Iowa. Benjamin isn’t the only former Superstar fans can expect for the show, as ‘Indy God’ Matt Cardona has also been announced. Other names announced for the event include Sami Callihan, Masha Slamovich, Jake Crist, The Rascalz, SGC, Killer Kelly, and Steve Maclin.

    TNA Wrestling World Champion Alex Shelley has also been announced, as has Paul Walter Hauser of Netflix’s Cobra Kai. At this time, only one match has been announced, a dream match between ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey and Marina Shafir. 

    Shelton Benjamin is ready to take the wrestling world by storm, but he isn’t the only notable free agent in wrestling at the moment… 

  • WWE Warned LA Knight That He May Be Just a Flavor Of the Month

    WWE Warned LA Knight That He May Be Just a Flavor Of the Month

    LA Knight has become one of WWE’s most popular Superstars competing today, despite some thinking at first he’d just be the flavor of the month. 

    2023 saw a dramatic rise in popularity for the former Max Dupri, who kicked off the year the Pitch Black match at the Royal Rumble event. Throughout the year, Knight’s popularity continued to grow as fans continued to rally behind the veteran. At WWE Crown Jewel, Knight challenged Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns but failed to dethrone the Tribal Chief.

    Flavor of the Month

    LA Knight is one of WWE’s top stars right now, but not everybody had high hopes for the megastar. Speaking to Chris Van Vliet of Insight, Knight recalled WWE higher-ups being hesitant to go all in on him. 

    “There was skepticism at first. Is this really a thing? Is this just going to be a flash in the pan? Is this going to be a flavor of the month? And that’s a thing we had talked about and was even talked about with me. ‘Well, we don’t want to give it to you too soon because then they might get over it.’ Look, fine. If that’s the case and I’m not good enough to carry that, cool, let’s go with that.

    “I understand the idea of wanting to protect me at some point as well. But I have the belief in myself that I could pivot and move and adapt to whatever the situation is. You don’t want to give it to him too soon but if try and not give it to him at all, come on man. I feel like I’m better than that. And I don’t mean that in a boisterous way, but I’m confident in what I do. I’m confident in my skills. And at the same time, I want to be able to fail. Because when I fail, I get back up.”

    When Van Vliet rejected the notion that Knight has failed, the megastar corrected him and shared how crazy the past year has been. 

    “I’ve failed a million times but this year has been crazy… Apparently, I’ve been married twice this year as well. [Chris says Congratulations] Thank you, even though I’m not married.”

    An Overnight Success? 

    While Knight’s rise in WWE has been dramatic, this chapter is just the latest in his lengthy career. On the show, Knight explained how his success was both an overnight sensation as wel as something that was a long time coming. 

    “It was but it wasn’t. It was 20 years, but then it was an overnight success. It was 20 years to get the overnight success basically because all of a sudden you’ve got– anywhere I’ve been any other company, had a fraction of the audience we have now. So to any of the uninitiated, most of them are seeing me for the first time. So in a certain way, it is an overnight success to the broader audience.”

    La Knight will challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at the Royal Rumble, as will Randy Orton and AJ Styles. Roman Reigns is understandly not happy about this… 

    For use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

  • The Undertaker Shares Hilarious First Reaction to Mick Foley as Dude Love

    The Undertaker Shares Hilarious First Reaction to Mick Foley as Dude Love

    The Undertaker may have faced giants, kings, and even himself, but nothing could have prepared him for the enigmatic Dude Love persona. 

    The oldest of Mick Foley’s iconic characters, the WWE Hall of Famer first crafted Dude Love while still in his youth. The fun-loving character was brought to the WWF years later after Foley had competed around the world as the ultra-violent Cactus Jack and the tortured soul known as Mankind. 

    The Undertaker Reacts to Dude Love

    On a recent episode of his Six Feet Under podcast, The Undertaker spoke about the Dude Love persona. The Phenom recalled seeing Dude Love for the first time and questioning how he’d ever sold for Mick. 

    “I remember when he started doing Dude Love. He passed me in the hall and he could tell by the look on my face…I’ve sold more for him than anybody ever. We’ve been through hell and back together. Then here he is…Dude Love and all this tie-dyed stuff.

    “He was getting into character and he was walking down the hall. Then he’d seen me and then he’d seen the look on my face. I’ll never forget him just dropping his head and walking by [like] ‘I’m sorry.’ It’s like, ‘I can’t believe I sold for you.’”

    Mick Foley & The Undertaker

    The Undertaker and Dude Love never faced off, but Mick Foley shared the ring several times with The Undertaker. The pair’s most iconic match came in Pittsburgh at the 1998 King of the Ring event, where the pair battled in, and on top of Hell in a Cell. 

  • Latest on Giovanni Vinci After Injury On Day 1 Episode of WWE Raw

    Latest on Giovanni Vinci After Injury On Day 1 Episode of WWE Raw

    Fans won’t be seeing Giovanni Vinci in the ring for some time after the Imperium member suffered an injury during last week’s episode of Raw. 

    During the Day 1 episode of WWE Raw, Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser faced the tag-team experts Jey Uso and Kofi Kingston. The match came to a sudden conclusion when Kingston dropkicked Vinci and his head caught the back of the mat on the way down. After a consultation, medical officials at ringside determined that Vinci couldn’t compete. The match ended without a winner being determined. 

    Update on Giovanni Vinci

    During this week’s Raw, it was announced that Vinci would be out for “a number of weeks” due to the situation that unfolded on last week’s Raw. WWE has still not publicly disclosed details about the issue with Vinci. On Twitter, the Italian Superstar told fans “Sto bene. Grazie mille” which means “I’m fine, thanks a lot.”

    A Feud Brewing?

    On this week’s Raw, Ludwig Kaiser showed a new level of aggression in his singles match with Kofi Kingston. The match ended with a double count-out as Kaiser was attacking Kingston on the outside of the ring and would not stop to break the ref’s ten-count. 

    On social media, WWE shared footage of Kingston being taken backstage after the match. It was noted that Kingston is being evaluated by medical staff but an update on his condition is not public knowledge at this time. 

    Ludwig Kaiser was recently the victim of a sweet-treat incident at a WWE live event… 

  • Grayson Waller is “Fearing for His Life” Thanks to Madman Punching People in WWE

    Grayson Waller is “Fearing for His Life” Thanks to Madman Punching People in WWE

    WWE SmackDown Superstar Grayson Waller is ‘fearing for his life’ due to a string of attacks, but it’s not CM Punk who’s to blame. 

    In a video shared on Twitter, Waller spoke about his issues with Kevin Owens. The prizefighter made a surprise appearance on last week’s WWE NXT and attacked Waller during his match with Trick Williams. 

    “2024 hasn’t really started off the way that I was hoping for. Last Tuesday, I go to NXT because Ilja Dragunov is too scared to fight Trick Williams, and I save the show. You’re welcome, Shawn Michaels. But what thanks do I get? I get assaulted, punched in the face by Kevin Owens for no reason at all.”

    Waller then spoke about being at SmackDown in Vancouver, where he saw U.S. Champion Logan Paul suffer a similar fate. 

    “I got cuts inside my lip, my jaw is sore. What do I see while I’m watching the show? Kevin Owens punches Logan Paul, the United States Champion, in the face for no reason at all. Me and Theory had enough. We go and check on Logan backstage. Because you know what? We’re starting to fear for our lives backstage. There’s a madman running around punching people.”

    Waller’s comment about fearing for his life is an obvious nod to CM Punk’s release from AEW in September of last year. Addressing an AEW Collision crowd in Chicago after Punk’s release, Tony Khan claimed he was left fearing for his life during the Punk-Jack Perry altercation at AEW All In. 

    This isn’t the first time that Grayson Waller has poked fun at CM Punk’s exit from AEW… 

    H/T – WrestleZone

  • AEW’s Swerve Strickland Lands Role In Upcoming Slasher Movie

    AEW’s Swerve Strickland Lands Role In Upcoming Slasher Movie

    The star power of Swerve Strickland is only continuing to grow with the AEW wrestler landing a role in an upcoming slasher movie. 

    Strickland will star in ‘Stiletto‘, a new film from Samuel Gonzalez Jr. which will see Gigi Gustin (Night of the Missing) star and produce. Other names attached to the film include Charlotte McKinney (Fantasy Island), Colleen Camp (Amsterdam, American Hustle), Pancho Moler (3 from Hell), Tyler Abron (Fear), and Stephen Blackehart (Guardians of the Galaxy)

    A plot summary for the film reads as follows: 

    “A year after the grisly murder of a local exotic dancer, the victim’s sister, Lyric [Gustin], searches for the serial killer responsible as he stalks and kills his favorite dancers on the night of the anniversary.”

    It is unclear what role Strickland will have in the film. He is being represented by Fourth Wall Management and this will be his feature film debut. 

    What’s Next for Swerve Strickland? 

    While Strickland has yet to hold singles gold in AEW, many feel his time will come, possibly this year. Last month, Strickland declared that he will be AEW’s first African American World Champion, a goal he plans on achieving in 2024. Whatever Strickland’s future holds, it seemingly won’t include Keith Lee. The former allies were set to face off at Worlds End before Lee was pulled from the show due to a persistent injury. Speaking after the event, Strickland said he was done waiting for the Limitless One. 

  • First Look at New TNA World Tag Team Championships

    First Look at New TNA World Tag Team Championships

    Fans have caught their first glimpse of the new TNA World Tag Team Championships, ahead of the promotion’s official relaunch at Hard to Kill.

    It was announced in the closing moment of Bound for Glory 2023 that IMPACT would be rebranding as TNA. This news has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. Reigning World Champion Alex Shelley told SE Scoops that the reaction has even taken some in IMPACT/TNA by surprise. 

    New TNA World Tag Team Championships

    In a video shared to YouTube, TNA President Scott D’Amore spoke to reigning World Tag Team Champions ABC. D’Amore spoke about watching Chris Bey and Ace Austin grow up in the promotion, before revealing the new TNA World Tag Team Championships. 

    Fans will be immediately drawn to the bright red strap of the new TNA World Tag Team Titles. Each title has a total of five silver plates with the center plate being ornated with various patterns, as well as the TNA Wrestling logo. 

    What’s Next? 

    ABC may be the proud holders of the TNA World Tag Team Championships, but their time with the new titles may be short-lived. At TNA Hard to Kill, ABC will defend the gold in a four-way tag-team match. They will be challenged by The Rascalz (Zachary Wentz and Trey Miguel), Speedball Mountain (Mike Bailey and Trent Seven), and the debuting former WWE tag-team of the Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake).

    These new Tag Team Championships aren’t the only titles to get a makeover… 

  • “Please Be Careful!” Kota Ibushi Warns Fans of “Scam” Clinic Operating in Tokyo

    “Please Be Careful!” Kota Ibushi Warns Fans of “Scam” Clinic Operating in Tokyo

    AEW’s Kota Ibushi has hit out at a clinic in the Asakusabashi district of Tokyo, Japan, which he claims is little more than a scam. 

    In a tweet that has since been deleted, Ibushi speaks about being presented with a strange powder during a procedure. Ibushi added that the ‘scam’ is charging people 200,000 yen per visit, equivalent to $1384 USD. 

    “As for the details of the C5 clinic scam that I mentioned before, it starts with an IV drip, but when it doesn’t work midway through, they bring a strange powder (marijuana) without permission, so isn’t this a problem for the police? This is a fraudulent clinic that operates in Asakusabashi and all over the country. Please be careful as it will take about 200,000 yen per time.”

    You can see Ibushi’s deleted post below. 

    Kota Ibushi’s Injury

    Fans won’t be seeing Kota Ibushi in the ring for some time after suffering an injury during a recent match for Pro Wrestling NOAH.  Ibushi was seen clutching his foot after a moonsault, and reportedly walked into the match with an injury. Ibushi was rushed to hospital after the match. NOAH would later give an update on Ibushi, who suffered a right tibiofibular ligament tear and a right ankle lateral ligament complex injury. The Japanese wrestler has confirmed that he will have surgery to deal with this situation. There is no word on when he can be expected back in the ring. 

    SEScoops wishes Kota Ibushi a speedy recovery.

  • Bayley Gifts NFL’s San Francisco 49ers Custom WWE Belt to George Kittle

    Bayley Gifts NFL’s San Francisco 49ers Custom WWE Belt to George Kittle

    WWE Superstar Bayley recently showed her support for the San Francisco 49ers at the team’s recent game against the Los Angeles Rams. 

    Not only did Bayley attend the game, but she brought one of the WWE Legacy Championship titles, which featured the branding and colors of the 49ers. WWE entered a multi-year deal with the NFL last year that has seen custom titles created for each team.  

    The Role Model also helped psyche up the crowd in the pre-game festivities, as seen in the clip below. 

    Despite Bayley’s support, the 49ers would lose to the Rams in a close-fought game which ended with the Rams winning 21-20. 

    George Kittle and Wrestling

    Kittle will be thrilled to have received this title given that he is a known fan of WWE. Earlier in the 2023 season, he wore an Edge shirt ahead of a Monday Night Football game. Kittle also appeared at WrestleMania 39 and would help Pat McAfee defeat The Miz. 

    Speaking to Rich Eisen after his appearance, Kittle said that he’s been hoping for something with WWE for some time and was pleased to help out “one of the boys.” Kittle admitted that appearing at WrestleMania was the second-most anxiety-inducing experience of his life, only being beaten by singing with Kelly Clarkson. 

    Kittle added that he was worried about clotheslining The Miz, and was encouraged to hit harder than he thought was needed. Sure enough, Kittle decked the two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion and would help get the Miz back in the ring.