Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Wrestlers ‘Frustrated’ After Going Unused At Ring of Honor TV Tapings

    Wrestlers ‘Frustrated’ After Going Unused At Ring of Honor TV Tapings

    Ring of Honor is back and filming weekly content once more, but the promotion has left several wrestlers ‘frustrated.’

    This past weekend saw ROH create content for their weekly programming with the first episode airing last night.

    ROH was purchased by Tony Khan a year ago this month and hosted a handful of Pay-Per-View events ahead of this week’s relaunch.

    Frustrated

    Several people were flown in for last weekend’s Ring of Honor tapings, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports.

    It is noted that a lot of wrestlers canceled their weekend bookings on the indies to work the ROH tapings, but did not go used.

    While the unused talent was paid (reportedly more than what they would have earned at the indie events) it is reported that there was “frustration” among the talent who weren’t used.

    One independent promoter told WON that he lost four of his top guys and none of them got used on the ROH tapings.

    While the promoter said he did not have an issue with the wrestlers taking the ROH booking, he added that they really should have been used.

    Dak Draper was one name who was backstage and not used.

    Title Feud

    Not everyone made it onto the first Ring of Honor show of this new era, but Eddie Kingston did make his presence felt.

    After ‘quitting’ AEW following this week’s episode of Dynamite, Kingston appeared after the main event match between ROH World Champion Claudio Castagnoli and AR Fox.

    Kingston made it clear to Castagnoli (who he has spoken negatively about prior to the Swissman’s AEW arrival) that he plans on taking the ROH World Championship.

  • AEW Working On Video Game Projects Other than Fight Forever

    AEW Working On Video Game Projects Other than Fight Forever

    Gamers may still be waiting with bated breath for the release of AEW Fight Forever, but Tony Khan’s promotion is already working on what’s next.

    AEW’s first console video game project, Fight Forever was announced in late 2020 but has faced multiple delays.

    Fight Forever will be the third overall game for AEW, with Elite: General Manager and AEW Casino: Double or Nothing both releasing for mobile devices.

    Other Projects

    Given the two-and-a-half years since Fight Forever was announced, it’s hardly a surprise that expectations are high.

    AEW Fight Forever isn’t the only game in the works, however, as Aubrey Edwards explained on The Sessions.

    “I’m working in AEW Games, which is our games sort of umbrella. I’m working on a number of games for them which I can’t talk about yet.”

    Aubrey Edwards

    The AEW referee added that despite being a key part of the AEW Games department, she is not personally overseeing the development of Fight Forever.

    AEW Fight Forever – What We Know

    For many AEW stars, Fight Forever will mark their debut as playable at-launch characters.

    The game will include AEW staple stipulations, including the Casino Battle Royal and the Exploding Barbed Wire Death Match.

    The game has already picked up awards, and a playable demo has been shown at gaming events in Tokyo, Japan, and Cologne, Germany.

    While a release date for later this month was spotted on the Best Buy website, it is believed this is a placeholder date and not accurate.

  • Update on Several AEW Missing Talent – Miro, Hikaru Shida, & Others

    Update on Several AEW Missing Talent – Miro, Hikaru Shida, & Others

    A mixture of injuries and a lack of creative direction is keeping some stars of All Elite Wrestling away, it has been claimed.

    AEW is home to a wide array of talent under a large roster, one that some fans believe is too large.

    With limited weekly programming and no on-demand service (such as the WWE Network,) many wrestlers appear solely on AEW Dark or Dark: Elevation, or are seldom used.

    Injuries

    For many AEW stars, injuries are to blame for them missing weekly programming on TBS and TNT.

    Fightful Select reports that Hikaru Shida is in her native Japan at this time and is dealing with a finger injury, but worked the recent Jericho Cruise, performing in a couple of matches.

    Kris Statlander’s ACL injury continues to keep her away from the ring, though she has been backstage at several AEW shows in recent months, including the Lexington and Toronto shows.

    After having knee surgery last May, Fightful were told that Leyla Hirsch is “slowly getting there,” and it has been said that she recently resumed in-ring training.

    Missing

    Not everyone who has been absent from AEW programming as of late is down with an injury.

    In their report, Fightful notes that Scorpio Sky has been cleared to wrestle for months, after dealing with an injury last Summer.

    While Sky was at the recent Impact Wrestling No Surrender event, the former TNT Champion hasn’t attended many AEW shows as of late.

    Sky has several years left on his AEW deal, as he said in late 2021 that he signed a five-year extension.

    Fightful was told that Miro is healthy and ready to go, but haven’t heard an update on creative discussions between he and All Elite Wrestling.

    Miro has several years left on his contract after signing a four-year extension a year or so ago.

    The former TNT Champion and three-time WWE United States Champion has had one match for AEW over the past eight months.

  • “It’s Not Dead” – Latest on Bray Wyatt’s Horror Film Following WWE Return

    “It’s Not Dead” – Latest on Bray Wyatt’s Horror Film Following WWE Return

    The feature-film debut of Bray Wyatt, announced after his 2021 WWE release, is “not dead” according to horror movie effects veteran Jason Baker.

    Following his controversial exit from WWE in July 2021, it was announced in November that Wyatt was working on a horror movie, with Baker and Rob Fee.

    In addition to effects, Baker is the owner of Callosum Studios, which includes horror effects legend Tom Savini as a consultant.

    Callosum’s work will be recognizable for WWE fans, as they are the team behind masks for Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, Retribution, the Bludgeon Brothers, Carmella, Nikki A.S.H, and the Fiend, and also designed Alexa Bliss’ Lilly doll.

    WWE Return

    In October 2022, Wyatt made his return to WWE in the climax of the highly-acclaimed ‘White Rabbit’ series of vignettes.

    Since then, news of the movie project has been incredibly scarce, and when speaking to Metro, Baker explained how things have played out.

    “We were getting close, and then he started talking with Hunter, and then Hunter hired Rob. It was like, s**t, you guys aren’t gonna have any time to shoot a movie because we’re all gonna busy.

    “Then Bray came back, he’s like, ‘Well I need you to make a bunch of stuff.’ I’m like, ‘Well, when are we gonna shoot a movie if we’re all busy with WWE?’”

    Jason Baker.

    Despite the impact that WWE has had on the film’s production, Baker said this isn’t a bad thing, and called WWE the place that Wyatt “should be.”

    Not Dead

    Production on the film, which has been described as Ichi the Killer meets Xanadu, may have stalled, but things are still in the works.

    In the interview, Baker explained that the film remains in development, but there is no expected date for a release.

    “It’s not dead, it’s just we’re all working over at WWE now. I’m sure we’ll eventually get around to it, but – alright, let’s just go and do this for now!” 

    Jason Baker.

    Whatever Baker, Fee, and Wyatt have planned will have to wait until WrestleMania 39, where Wyatt is expected to face Bobby Lashley.

  • Major Update on Eddie Kingston After ‘Qutting’ All Elite Wrestling

    Major Update on Eddie Kingston After ‘Qutting’ All Elite Wrestling

    Eddie Kingston’s time with All Elite Wrestling has seemingly come to an end, and it hasn’t taken the Mad King long to find work elsewhere.

    During this week’s edition of AEW Dynamite, Kingston brawled with Ortiz, and announced after the show that he was quitting the promotion.

    This shock announcement garned a ton of reactions online, including one from Ortiz, who mocked the Mad King for taking an easy way out.

    Kingston in Ring of Honor

    While Eddie Kingston’s time in AEW is up, he has now found work in Tony Khan’s other promotion: Ring of Honor.

    After winning his match against AR Fox to retain the ROH World Championship, Claudio was met by Kingston on the first episode of the new ROH.

    Kingston didn’t mince his words when speaking to the two-time ROH World Champion:

    “Guess what? I’m an Independent Contractor, dawg. I’m 1099. Know how I promised Mox I wouldn’t beat your ass at AEW? This ain’t AEW, I’m coming for your Championship.”

    Eddie Kingston.

    ROH Honor Club

    The closing moments of the first Ring of Honor show of the new era was a fitting way to end an explosive night of entertainment.

    In the first match, Mark Briscoe, who remains a Ring of Honor World Tag Team Champion, defeated Slim J.

    The Kingdom made quick work of The Infantry, while NJPW World Television Chamber Zack Sabre Jr. stepped through the Forbidden Door to defend against Blake Christian.

    Christopher Daniels defeated Rohit Raju and Konosuke Takeshita bested Josh Woods.

    The Embassy picked up a six-man-tag win over Joe Keys, Rex Lawless and LSG, while Ari Daivari defeated fellow WWE alum Metalik.

    In Women’s action, Madison Rayne and Skye Blue defeated The Renegades and Willow Nightingale defeated Lady Frost.

  • What Would Tony Khan Need To Do To Make WWE Purchase Happen?

    What Would Tony Khan Need To Do To Make WWE Purchase Happen?

    Tony Khan has multiple wrestling promotions to his name, and is the owner of All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor next in line to run WWE?

    Since Vince McMahon’s return to WWE in January 2023, the billionaire has been focused on finding a new owner for the promotion and is reportedly hoping to sell for around $9 billion.

    Though several names were reported as potential buyers, many have dropped out of the race, including UFC parent company Endeavor, and Comcast.

    Tony Khan

    At this time, AEW President Tony Khan remains a possible buyer of WWE and has expressed interest in the company.

    While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer noted Khan buying WWE is possible under the correct circumstances.

    Meltzer said that Khan would need “a lot of partners” which is not out of the realm of possibility.

    It was reiterated that Khan has expressed interest, saying that he is watching the WWE situation very closely, but no deal has been offered at this time.

    Saudi Arabia

    With Comcast, considered by many to be the favorite, seemingly out of the running, many believe it is just a matter of time before the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund buys WWE.

    It has been reported that the Saudi PIF had already purchased WWE, though those reports were quickly debunked.

    On his show, Meltzer said that other than the Saudis and the Khan family, nobody else has publicly expressed interest in buying WWE.

    Speaking about the $9 billion asking price, Meltzer said that if the Saudis have agreed to this “highly inflated figure” then it’s unlikely anyone will match them.

  • Wade Barrett Knows Which WWE Superstar He’d Return to the Ring to Face

    Wade Barrett Knows Which WWE Superstar He’d Return to the Ring to Face

    WWE SmackDown commentator Wade Barrett hasn’t wrestled in years, but the Englishman is ready to don his trunks one more time with the right opponent.

    Barrett debuted on WWE TV in early 2010 and after winning the first season of the original NXT, would form The Nexus with his fellow ‘rookies.’

    After a run with The Corre and winning the 2015 King of the Ring, Barett would part ways with WWE, before returning as a commentator in August 2020.

    One More Match

    At 42 years old, Barrett isn’t a fresh face in WWE but still remains in great shape, meaning one final match is a possibility.

    Speaking to the Daily Star, Barrett named reigning WWE United States Champion Austin Theory as someone he’d consider wrestling.

    “In terms of his personality, his confidence on the mic, his smarts behind the scenes and of course his athletic ability, he’s a guy who could really go to the top.

    “That’s the kind of person I would certainly be looking at if it was to be a youngster I’d step in the ring with.”

    Wade Barrett.

    Theory has certainly proven himself since his return to WWE’s main roster in 2021, and is in his second reign as U.S. Champion.

    Though not confirmed, it is believed Theory will face John Cena at next month’s WrestleMania 39, with the former World Champion returning on next week’s Raw.

    Comparisons

    Like Theory, Barrett was once a youngster who was pushed to the very top of WWE, as the Englishman was headlining Pay-Per-Views mere months into his career.

    In the interview, Barrett acknowledged the similarities between himself and the reigning U.S. Champion.

    “In terms of being easy to detest, early in my career a lot of people probably really hated me, too, when I was with Nexus… so I have some admiration for that – that impresses me even more about him.

    Wade Barrett.

    Barrett was moved to SmackDown last year as part of commentary reshuffles across all three brands and is filling in for Pat McAfee, who is working on ESPN’s College Game Day.

  • Major Clues About Possible Future DLC for WWE 2K23

    Major Clues About Possible Future DLC for WWE 2K23

    A King of the Ring, a modern-day faction, and a Pyjama-clad powerhouse could be just some of the names coming to WWE 2K23.

    The latest installment in WWE’s video game franchise will release on March 17, with the Deluxe Edition being available for players on March 14.

    The game will have a special focus on John Cena, who celebrated 20 years on WWE’s main roster last June, including a Showcase Mode of some of his most iconic matches and moments.

    WWE 2K23 DLC

    While WWE 2K23 has a stacked roster, from top stars like Roman Reigns to fresh faces like Bron Breakker and Solo Sikoa, there is room for more Superstars as downloadable content.

    This week, 2K tweeted a QR code, which when scanned took fans to an interesting image, many have seen as full of DLC teases.

    Some potential Superstars in this image could include:

    • Bray Wyatt – QR Code & White Rabbit
    • Wade Barrett – It’s called the ‘Bad News’ Paper
    • Ivy Nile, Roderick Strong and/or Damon Kemp – Diamond imagery
    • Andre Chase – Chase U logo
    • Joe Gacy – Schism Tree
    • Wendy Choo – Sleeping Mask
    • Nathan Frazer – It says ‘Nathan Frazer’
    • Trick Williams – It says ‘Trick Williams’
    • Tony D’Angelo – It says ‘Don’
    • Harley Race – It says ‘Harley’
    • Eve Torres – It says ‘Eve’
    • Tiffany Stratton – Credit Card

    WWE 2K23

    WWE 2K23 will see the video-game debut of the WarGames match, which has been used in NXT in recent years, and on the main roster last November.

    MyGM mode will return, this time with longer match cards, more match types, and additional show options.

    Staples including MyRise and MyCareer will also return, and advanced customization features for the WWE 2K23 Creation Suite have been added.

    Female referees have also been added to the game.

  • Backstage Reason Behind Latest WWE NXT Parking Lot Attack

    Backstage Reason Behind Latest WWE NXT Parking Lot Attack

    Wendy Choo will be out of action for the time being, after being written off of NXT TV with an attack in the parking lot.

    During this week’s NXT, McKenzie Mitchell was set to interview Nathan Frazer, when there was a commotion heard off-screen.

    When cameras caught up to the scene, Choo was seen in the parking lot and was unable to move her arm.

    Real Reason

    As one would expect, this attack in the parking lot was just for the show, though Choo is needing some time away from the ring.

    Choo is dealing with a legitimate injury, according to the Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alverez, and will miss an undisclosed amount of ring time.

    That report adds that the Pyjama-clad Superstar is not expected to be out for long, as her injury isn’t considered “too serious.”

    The Most Dangerous Place on Earth

    Wendy Choo is just the latest person to fall victim to an assault in the WWE NXT parking lot.

    Months ago, Nikkita Lyons was attacked by a mysterious assailant, which in reality, was to write the popular star off TV to undergo surgery.

    When a fan accused The Schism’s Ava Raine of being the one behind the attacks, the fourth-generation Superstar denied that she is responsible, though wishes she was.

    There are currently no reports as to who will be revealed as Choo’s attacker, on when such a revelation will be made on WWE NXT programming.

  • WWE Opposes Ex-Superstar/Current AEW Wrestler’s Trademark Filing

    WWE Opposes Ex-Superstar/Current AEW Wrestler’s Trademark Filing

    Ring of Honor World Champion Claudio Castagnoli may have found new success outside of WWE, but the wrestler’s former employer isn’t making things easy.

    In 2012, Castagnoli debuted on WWE’s main roster as Antonio Cesaro, though his first name would be dropped soon enough.

    Just under a decade after his main roster debut, Cesaro would opt not to re-sign with WWE in early 2022 and would debut for AEW later that year.

    Trademark Opposition

    On March 14, 2022, Castagnoli filed a trademark for the term CSRO, for the following uses.

    G & S: Hats; Shirts; Socks; Sweatshirts; Hooded sweatshirts

    G & S: Coffee; Coffee beans; Coffee drinks; Ground coffee; Ground coffee beans

    G & S: Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, live appearances by a a professional wrestler and sports entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, personal appearances by a professional wrestler and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, televised appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network; Providing online interviews featuring a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality in the field of professional wrestling and sports entertainment for entertainment purposes.

    PW Insider reports that WWE is opposing Castagnoli’s registration of the filing, and requested a 90-day extension on filing their opposition.

    Given that the initial complaint was made by WWE on February 28, they will have until Monday, May 29, if their request is approved.

    PW Insider did not disclose the reason for WWE’s opposition, though it is believed that the CSRO term is too close to WWE’s ‘Cesaro’ term for the promotion’s liking.

  • WWE NXT Superstar Expected to be Called-Up After WrestleMania 39

    WWE NXT Superstar Expected to be Called-Up After WrestleMania 39

    A former WWE NXT North American Champion could be mere weeks away from being called up to the main roster in the post-WrestleMania 39 buzz.

    The Raw after WrestleMania has often been heralded as one of the most exciting nights of the WWE year, and traditionally features a call-up or two.

    Notable examples include Paige (AEW’s Saraya) winning the WWE Divas Championship in 2014, and Enzo Amore and Big Cass on the post-WrestleMania Raw in 2016.

    Called-Up

    The last time fans saw Cameron Grimes in NXT, the former Champion was losing to Joe Gacy on the November 8, episode of the gold brand.

    It has been reported that Grimes is finished with NXT, and that WWE are waiting on the right creative idea for his arrival on the main roster.

    In an update, PW Insider reported that there have been “rumblings internally” that Grimes will be called-up after WrestleMania 39.

    The former North American Champion has appeared on Raw in the past, as he enlisted the services of the O.C. during an October 22, episode.

    Grimes also competed on the October 17, 2022, episode of WWE Main Event, defeating Akira Tozawa.

    He has also competed for SmackDown, albeit in a dark match for the February 24, 2023, episode, where he defeated Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis.

    Cameron Grimes

    It was in January 2019 that the former Trevor Lee confirmed his signing with WWE, and began training at the Performance Center the next month.

    Grimes made it to the finals of that year’s NXT Breakout Tournament (which he lost to Jordan Myles.)

    After a knee surgery, Grimes returned to TV in February 2021, and referencing the rise in GameStop stock value, dubbed himself the richest man in NXT.

    In April 2022, Grimes would capture the NXT North American Championship, and would later challenge unsuccessfully for the NXT Championship.

  • Bill Goldberg: WWE “Owe Me” A Retirement Match

    Bill Goldberg: WWE “Owe Me” A Retirement Match

    WWE Hall of Famer Bill Goldberg will wrestle for the promotion at least one more time, if he gets his way.

    Goldberg, one of the homegrown talent in WCW, debuted in WWE in 2003 and would capture the World Heavyweight Championship before departing in 2004.

    Returning in 2016, Goldberg has wrestled a handful of times each year, with his most recent match coming in early 2022.

    Retirement Match

    At 56 years old, the two-time former Universal Champion is well aware that his career is winding down, and plans to end things on his own terms.

    Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Goldberg made it clear that he believes he deserves a retirement match, after making his deal with ‘the devil.’

    You never say never, especially in wrestling, and they owe me one. That’s all I can say. I made a deal with the devil and I did my job, and they owe me a retirement match. At the end of the day, at 56, it’s not something where I’m sitting by the phone waiting for a call. I’ve got a few ideas of how to do it on my own, possibly in Israel. So never say never.”

    Bill Goldberg.

    There are currently no reports of any plans for Goldberg to have a final match in WWE.

    Roman Reigns

    Goldberg’s most recent match for WWE came at Elimination Chamber 2022, where he lost to Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

    The match had been delayed by close to two years, as Goldberg Vs. Reigns was scheduled for WrestleMania 36 in 2020 before Reigns withdrew from the event.

    Speaking about the Tribal Chief, Goldberg had nothing but praise for his old adversary, and compared Reigns’ face run receiving fan backlash to his own career.

    “I’m really proud of him. I’ve dealt with some of that negativity, and it’s tough. You go out there, you work your ass off, and at the end of the day, you want to be appreciated. He’s quite dedicated. I respect that, I respect him, and I’d love to get in the ring and give him an ass-kicking, but this is his time.”

    Bill Goldberg.

    Roman Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion at WrestleMania 39 against Cody Rhodes this April.

  • Brock Lesnar Nixed Idea for Huge WrestleMania 39 Match – Vince McMahon Involved?

    Brock Lesnar Nixed Idea for Huge WrestleMania 39 Match – Vince McMahon Involved?

    Brock Lesnar will face Omos at WrestleMania 39 next month, but this isn’t the match WWE originally had in mind.

    Last week, Omos laid out the challenge to the Beast Incarnate, who most recently competed against Bobby Lashley at WWE Elimination Chamber.

    On this week’s Raw, Lesnar accepted the challenge and laid out MVP, Omos’ manager, in a message to the Nigerian giant.

    Nixed Match

    Fans have been surprised by WWE’s decision to go ahead with this match, which was not even being hinted at just a few weeks ago.

    Prior to WWE Elimination Chamber, Bray Wyatt stated that he would face the winner of Lesnar Vs. Lashley at WrestleMania 39.

    Fightful Select has learned that a match between Lesnar and Wyatt was pitched for the April two-night event, but Brock turned the idea down.

    No specific details were given as to why the former Universal Champion refused the match with Wyatt.

    It was confirmed to Fightful that Brock Lesnar personally approved the Omos match.

    Other Options

    In December 2022, it was reported that GUNTHER was being lined-up as Lesnar’s WrestleMania 39 opponent, and the two did have an altercation in the Men’s Rumble match.

    Fightful adds that while GUNTHER was also pitched for Lesnar, this match was nixed and that the match had already been scrapped when news in December came out.

    At the time that the GUNTHER-Lesnar match was a possibility, there was no mention whatsoever of the Intercontinental Championship being a factor in the match.

    Bobby Lashley was also pitched as an opponent for Lesnar at WrestleMania, though the All Mighty will seemingly be facing Wyatt instead.

    Vince McMahon

    In a tweet, Wrestle Votes implied that Vince McMahon personally had a hand in making the Lesnar-Omos match a reality.

    Fightful hasn’t confirmed that internally, but sources close to Lesnar had indicated that “could be true.”

    While sources in WWE have stated that McMahon has no official capacity with the creative department, one anonymous talent has stated that they believe the Executive Chairman has more of an influence on creative than publicly believed.

  • Sonya Deville Arrested in New Jersey Over Gun Possession Violation

    Sonya Deville Arrested in New Jersey Over Gun Possession Violation

    WWE Superstar Sonya Deville has been arrested after allegedly violating gun possession laws in the state of New Jersey.

    According to a report from TMZ Sports, court documents show that a valet contacted police on February 19, when they found a gun in the glove box of Deville’s vehicle.

    After an investigation determined that Deville did not have the proper permits to carry the weapon, the Superstar and former WWE authority figure was promptly arrested.

    Deville was charged with one count of unlawful weapon possession of a handgun without a permit.

    The Superstar, who recently announced her engagement to fiance Toni Cassano, is due to appear in court later this month.

    Possession of a firearm—including handguns, rifles, shotguns, machine guns, and assault weapons—without a permit is a third-degree crime, punishable by up to five years in prison, according to Rosenblum Law.

    This article will be updated as more information is made available.

  • Watch: Trailer for New John Cena Project with Kevin Hart

    Watch: Trailer for New John Cena Project with Kevin Hart

    John Cena’s expanse into the world of Hollywood has continued with his latest project with comedy staple Kevin Hart.

    Cena’s first foray into acting began in 2006 with the release of The Marine, a film the former WWE Champion had a less-than-favorable response to.

    In more recent years, Cena has gone from strength to strength, thanks to roles in major franchises including Fast and Furious and the DC Comics Cinematic Universe.

    Die Hart 2

    While Cena has becoming a leading man in Hollywood, the 16-time former World Champion has also taken on smaller projects.

    This week, the Roku Channel shared a trailer for the upcoming Kevin Hart vehicle “Die Hart 2: Die Harter” which features Hart, Cena, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Ben Schwartz.

    The film serves as a sequel to 2020’s Die Hart, which sees Hart’s character try and make a name for himself as an action movie star.

    John Cena’s WWE Return

    Cena is certainly kept busy with his acting commitments, but the iconic WWE Superstar will soon be back in the ring.

    The two-time Royal Rumble winner has been confirmed for next week’s Raw in Boston, MA.

    While not confirmed, it is believed that Cena will resume his feud with United States Champion Austin Theory, culminating in a match at WrestleMania 39.

    The pair teased a feud in mid-2022, and a match between the pair was rumored for Summerslam 2022 last July, though never transpired.

    Cena’s most recent appearance for WWE was on the final SmackDown of 2022, where he and Kevin Owens defeated Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn.

  • The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa Gets Married in WWE Superstar-Attended Ceremony

    The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa Gets Married in WWE Superstar-Attended Ceremony

    Solo Sikoa may be the silent enforcer of The Bloodline, but the former NXT North American Champion is also now a married man.

    After debuting in WWE NXT in 2021, Sikoa was called-up to the main roster at WWE Clash at the Castle last September.

    Sikoa aided Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns in his title defense against Drew McIntyre in Cardiff, Wales.

    Married Man

    As seen on WWE TV, Sikoa’s loyalty to his family runs deep, and now the Anoa’I family has a new member.

    On social media, photos and videos were shared of the wedding of Sikoa and Almia Williams, who tied the knot this week.

    It is reported that the pair, who have two children together, got engaged in 2020.

    In a social media post of his own, Sikoa called his blushing bride “forever my blessing,” and add that she loves ‘Mrs. Fatu.’

    Some photos included in Sikoa’s post show the bride and groom posing with reigning Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Jimmy and Jey Uso.

    Fellow WWE Superstar Naomi, who is married to Jimmy Uso, also attended the wedding.

    Naomi has been suspended from WWE since May of last year, and it was recently reported that she is recovering from shoulder surgery.

    There are no photos that featured current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns or any other known members of the Anoa?i family.

    We here at SEScoops would like to congratulate Sikoa and Almia on their joyous union.

  • “We Weren’t Blessed with Superstar Attributes” – Dax Harwood Opens Up on WWE Backstage Issues

    “We Weren’t Blessed with Superstar Attributes” – Dax Harwood Opens Up on WWE Backstage Issues

    AEW’s Dax Harwood has opened up about some of the issues that he experienced during his tenure with WWE.

    Signing with WWE in 2012, Harwood would spend time in NXT, Raw, and SmackDown, and would hold tag gold on each brand with Cash Wheeler.

    In 2020, the pair once known as The Revival were granted their requested releases from WWE, and would debut for AEW in May of that year.

    Superstar Attributes

    Standing at five-foot-ten and tipping the scales at 223lbs, Harwood isn’t what your non-wrestling fan would consider a prototypical WWE Superstar.

    Speaking to Sports Illustrated this week, Harwood opened up about his size and was well aware that he didn’t fit WWE’s mold of their usual top star.

    “We weren’t blessed with superstar attributes. Look at Hulk Hogan and then look at Dax Harwood, and you see the obvious differences.”

    Dax Harwood.

    Despite this, WWE has had some smaller stars reach the top of the card, including Shawn Michaels (at the time the smallest World Champion,) CM Punk, and Daniel Bryan.

    Backstage Issues

    In the years since his WWE exit, Harwood has spoken openly about his difficulties adjusting to the main roster, after an impressive run in WWE NXT.

    In the interview, Harwood said how issues affected every part of his run, right down to the verbiage he used on TV.

    “There were battles backstage in WWE. I’ve been handed a script where my verbiage was, ‘I’m going to take the tracker down yonder.’ That’s not how I speak. I have two degrees, one in business communication and one in English, ones that I paid for myself.

    “I had to fight for that verbiage to be taken away. If I hadn’t, I never would have reached the success I have.”

    FTR’s final nail in the coffin was when they were pitched ‘Flava Flav-inspired redesigns by Vince McMahon, and the tag-team left shortly after.

  • Bizarre WWE Video Package is Reminding Fans of Sasha Banks

    Bizarre WWE Video Package is Reminding Fans of Sasha Banks

    IWGP Women’s Champion Mercedes Moné won’t be making her WWE return anytime soon, but WWE doesn’t want the fans to know that.

    Moné debuted for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 17 in January, over seven months after walking out of the May 16, 2022, edition of Raw.

    At last month’s Battle in the Valley event, Moné captured the IWGP Women’s Championship from KAIRI, in the former’s first match post-WWE.

    Video Package

    On next week’s Raw, John Cena will make his return to WWE TV, in his first appearance since the final SmackDown of 2022.

    Unsurprisingly, WWE is hyping up the appearance of the 16-time World Champion, with a video that has reminded fans of Sasha Banks.

    WWE’s video said that next week, Raw would host the return “you’ve been banking on,” with text in a similar style to that of Banks’ WWE run.

    There are currently no plans for Moné to appear on next week’s Raw or any future episode of WWE programming going forward.

    John Cena’s Return

    Mercedes Moné won’t be on next week’s Raw, but Cena will be, likely to set up a WrestleMania match with United States Champion Austin Theory.

    A feud between the two began last year, and a match was rumored for Summerslam 2022, though that never transpired.

    It is unclear whether WWE will put Theory’s U.S. title on the line for the match with Cena, who is kept away from the promotion due to his Hollywood commitments.

    WWE WrestleMania 39 will take place on April 1, and April 2, in Inglewood, California, and will be WWE’s fourth two-night edition of the annual supershow.

  • Grayson Waller Effect with Guest Shawn Michaels Confirmed for WWE NXT Roadblock

    Grayson Waller Effect with Guest Shawn Michaels Confirmed for WWE NXT Roadblock

    Grayson Waller’s issues with NXT Head Shawn Michaels are likely to reach a boiling point at the upcoming NXT Roadblock event.

    Waller has proven to be a thorn in the side of the two-time WWE Hall of Famer for some time, after failing to dethrone NXT Champion Bronn Breakker.

    On the post-NXT Vengeance Day Conference Call last month, Waller confronted Michaels and asked what he needs to do to have the support of HBK.

    Grayson Waller Effect

    Waller’s actions have earned him a suspension from WWE NXT, but the Australian Superstar will be around for NXT Roadblock.

    On Twitter, Michaels confirmed with a statement that Waller will appear at NXT Roadblock, which will take place next week on March 7, and that he will be the guest on the Grayson Waller Effect.

    “Every day I focus on the development of the young men and women of NXT. I had my time in the spotlight. Now that attention should be directed on these incredible Superstars.

    “However, knowing Grayson’s behavior will only get worse, and against my better judgment, l accept the invitation to be on the Grayson Waller Effect next week at Roadblock and promise to be as professional as I can be.”

    Shawn Michaels.

    Other confirmed plans for NXT Roadblock include NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez defending against Meiko Satomura.

    Indus Sher will face the Creed Brothers and NXT Champion Bron Breakker in six-man tag-team action, while Dijak looks to settle things with Tony D’Angelo in a Jailhouse Street Fight.

    Waller Vs. Michaels?

    Many believe that this could set up a match between Waller and Michaels at a future NXT event.

    Michaels retired from in-ring competition following his loss to The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26 in 2010.

    In 2018, Michaels would have one more match, teaming with Triple H to defeat the Brothers of Destruction at that year’s Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia.

  • Released WWE Faction Reunites On The Independents

    Released WWE Faction Reunites On The Independents

    A former WWE tag team has shown that they are as unified as ever despite being released from the promotion a few years ago.

    In April 2020, WWE began a new strategy of releasing talents in massive waves, which at the time was explained to talent as being due to “budget cuts.”

    Many found the reasoning to be fishy, as the time of the releases was also a time when the company was recording the biggest profits and highest earnings.

    Sanity

    Members of Sanity were just some of the names cut as part of these waves, with Killian Dain being cut in June 2021.

    This week, Dain, back under the name Big Damo, lost the PROGRESS Atlas Championship to Ricky Knight.

    Post-match, Axel Tischer, formerly Alexander Wolfe in WWE, appeared to congratulate his Sanity comrade.

    Wolfe would be part of Sanity and Imperium in WWE, before his release from WWE in May 2021.

    His final match in WWE had been in a losing effort to Dain and was kicked out of Imperium afterward.

    Other Members

    Of all the members of Sanity, Nikki Cross (Damo’s wife) has gone on to be the group’s most successful member.

    The Scottish Superstar is a former RAW Women’s Champion, WWE Women’s Tag Champion and WWE 24/7 Champion, as well as a Money in the Bank winner.

    In December of last year, it was reported that Eric Young would be returning to WWE soon enough, after being released in April 2020.

    Young returned to Impact Wrestling at that year’s Slammiversary event, and would win the Impact World Championship that same year.

  • Stevie Richards Thanks Fans After Recent Hospitalization

    Stevie Richards Thanks Fans After Recent Hospitalization

    WWE and ECW veteran Stevie Richards has thanked fans for their support, after recently disclosing he is dealing with several health issues.

    In a message on Instagram last week, Richards shared a photo of himself wearing a medical gown and standing with the aid of a walker.

    Richards explained that the last four weeks have been “something else” and his hopeful that his road to recovery starts as soon as possible.

    The Update

    In an update, Richards said he was incredibly grateful for the heart-felt messages and shows of support fans have sent his way since his previous post.

    On Instagram, Richards wrote the following in the caption of a video.

    The prayers have definitely been felt by us and we appreciate them so much. Please take a moment to pray for those who are in worse medical condition and are alone in the hospital. It’s breaks my heart to see those laying in a hospital bed without a hand to hold nor someone to lean on while in pain. #loveoneanother #helpothers #prayerstillworks #prayersup.”

    It has been reported that Richards is dealing with back and spinal issues, brought on by his lengthy career in the ring.

    In addition to WWE and ECW, Richards has also competed for TNA/Impact Wrestling, as well as several independent promotions.

    Richards’ most recent match to date came in May 2019 as part of Beyond/WWR Wrestling, where he defeated Anthony Greene, who fans may know for his WWE run as August Grey.

  • Finn Balor Lays Out Challenge to Edge for WWE WrestleMania 39 Match

    Finn Balor Lays Out Challenge to Edge for WWE WrestleMania 39 Match

    Edge and Finn Balor will seemingly go one-on-one at WrestleMania 39 after the former Universal Champion issued a challenge this week.

    Balor and Edge have been on opposing sides for over half a year now, after the Rated-R Superstar was ejected from the Judgment Day in mid-2022.

    At Extreme Rules last October, Balor got an I-Quit match victory over Edge, who returned at the Royal Rumble last month to eliminate Balor.

    WrestleMania 39

    On last night’s Raw, Balor was interviewed backstage with the Judgment Day at his side and said he’s not done with Edge.

    The first-ever Universal Champion issued the challenge to a match at WrestleMania, which Edge has yet to respond to.

    It’s been reported that WWE planned on Edge Vs. Balor at the Royal Rumble but nixed the idea due to Edge’s commitments to the upcoming Percy Jackson series on Disney+.

    WWE and Edge felt that with the Hall of Famer not being able to appear on Raw in the run-up to the Royal Rumble, the match would not have received proper booking.

    It has been reported that the match in January was scheduled to take place inside Hell in a Cell, but there is no confirmation if this is the plan this time around.

    The Judgment Day at WrestleMania

    While Edge Vs. Balor has yet to be made official, it is expected to be confirmed for WrestleMania, which will be a busy night for the Judgment Day.

    By winning the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match, Rhea Ripley earned herself a match at WrestleMania, and will challenge SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair this April.

    Though it has not been confirmed, many expect Dominik Mysterio to face his father Rey Mysterio at WrestleMania 39.

  • Mark Henry: CM Punk Is Not a Cancer to Wrestling

    Mark Henry: CM Punk Is Not a Cancer to Wrestling

    Is CM Punk truly a cancer to the wrestling industry, as some have claimed?

    Punk has certainly been a controversial figure in recent months, following his inflammatory comments after last September’s AEW All Out Pay-Per-View.

    It was these comments, as well as the backstage fight, that resulted in Punk’s second reign as AEW World Champion coming to a swift and unceremonial end.

    Not a Cancer

    After the infamous Pay-Per-View, Chris Jericho branded Punk a “cancer” and the same term was used by WWE’s Seth Rollins last month during a Royal Rumble week interview.

    Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Mark Henry discussed Punk, and said that while he may rub some people the wrong way, that’s only because Punk is passionate about his craft.

    “He’s not a cancer. He’s opinionated, but he’s also a teacher and supporter. I’ve seen him do stuff he didn’t have to do. He just did it because he loved the business and he wanted to make that wrestler better.”

    Mark Henry.

    Punk remains the only person suspended after AEW All Out 2022 to still be suspended at this time.

    Others who have spoken favorably of Punk following All Out include FTR’s Dax Harwood and AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill.

    Bringing Punk Back

    CM Punk’s arrival in AEW saw the company’s ratings rise dramatically, and many believe that only by bringing Punk back can the company reach those heights again.

    While Punk has some allies backstage, it has been reported that some top names have refused to work with the former World Champion if he is brought back.

    Punk is currently healing from a torn triceps injury suffered at All Out, but should be 100% within two months.

    h/t – Wrestling Inc

  • WWE Superstars Unhappy With Fewer WrestleMania Spots On “Smaller” Card (Report)

    WWE Superstars Unhappy With Fewer WrestleMania Spots On “Smaller” Card (Report)

    This year’s WrestleMania will feature a smaller card, leaving some frustrated Superstars off the biggest show of the year, it has been claimed.

    WrestleMania 39 will take place on April 1, and April 2, in Inglewood, California, marking the fourth two-night WrestleMania in a row.

    Night Two of the Showcase of the Immortals will be headlined by Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns defending against Cody Rhodes.

    Smaller Card

    WrestleMania is WWE’s biggest event of the year, so it is expected that it is the longest and most stacked show of the year.

    For single-night events, WrestleMania 35 (2019) takes the record for the longest WWE event in history, clocking in at five hours and 20 minutes (or over seven hours if you watch the pre-show.)

    WrestlingNews.co was informed that WWE will be using a smaller card as compared to previous years, and this is an edict from WWE’s Head of Creative/Talent Relations Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque.

    It is reported that there will not be a WrestleMania Battle Royal at WrestleMania, which in years past allowed a lot of Superstars the chance to compete at the biggest show of the year.

    In more recent years, WWE has kept the men’s Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal for the SmackDown before WrestleMania.

    At this time, three matches have been announced by WWE, though this will of course change.

    Unhappy

    With a smaller card comes fewer spots for talent to appear on the show, which Wrestling News was informed has led to “some unhappiness” backstage.

    There is also unhappiness about some of the slots on the show being saved for part-timers, though the report did not state who.

    We do know that Brock Lesnar will answer Omos’ challenge for WrestleMania 39 on tonight’s Raw, and a match between Edge and Finn Balor is expected.

    There have also been reports that Trish Stratus and Lita will team with Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 39 to face Damage CTRL.

    John Cena is expected to face United States Champion Austin Theory this April, though the match has yet to be confirmed by WWE.

  • CM Punk Mocks “Cancerous” Locker Room Comments Amid AEW Suspension

    CM Punk Mocks “Cancerous” Locker Room Comments Amid AEW Suspension

    Is CM Punk truly a ‘cancer’ to the wrestling industry as some believe, or have those claims been greatly exaggerated?

    This week will mark the six-month anniversary since Punk’s infamous comments on the All Out post-show, and the backstage fight that led to his suspension.

    Punk is now the only person suspended following All Out to still be suspended, with the Elite and others being brought back to TV and Punk’s trainer Ace Steel being fired.

    Cancerous

    After the All Out fight, which came amid a difficult year for All Elite Wrestling, Chris Jericho branded Punk a “cancer” to the company.

    Jericho isn’t the only one who feels this way, with Seth Rollins using similar verbiage when asked about Punk during a pre-Royal Rumble interview with Wrestling Inc.

    In an Instagram post this week, Punk poked fun at the idea that he is cancerous, with the help of a photoshopped image of Danhausen.

    In the image, Danhausen can be seen taking lemonade from a child without paying, which is actually from a panel from Marvel Comics featuring Kang the Conqueror.

    Punk joked that ‘Danhausen’ was “cancerous” and needed to be blackballed for this action, and also made reference to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

    What’s Next for CM Punk?

    For Punk, the idea that he is “cancerous” may seem laughable, but many don’t find his actions at All Out so funny.

    In addition to calling him a cancer, Jericho is reportedly part of a group within AEW who are trying to fight against Punk being brought back to TV.

    Many in WWE also feel the McMahon-led promotion would be making a mistake if Punk is brought in, believing that he would just cause more problems as we’ve seen in AEW.