SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Huge Intercontinental Title Triple-Threat Planned for WrestleMania 39 (Report)

    Huge Intercontinental Title Triple-Threat Planned for WrestleMania 39 (Report)

    Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER’s reign may be in serious jeopardy if WWE goes ahead with plans for a blockbuster triple-threat match at WrestleMania 39.

    The Austrian powerhouse captured the title on WWE SmackDown in June of last year and is the longest-reigning champion since 2005.

    If GUNTHER holds on to the gold for another week, he will surpass Shelton Benjamin’s reign and become the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion of this millennium.

    WrestleMania 39

    GUNTHER’s performance since coming to the main roster has been heralded by fans, as seen with the response to his record-shattering performance at last weekend’s Royal Rumble.

    While it was previously reported that WWE was planning on GUNTHER Vs Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 39, that no longer appears to be the case.

    Wrestle Votes reports that WWE is considering an epic triple-threat in which the leader of Imperium will defend his title against Drew McIntyre and Sheamus.

    The Intercontinental Championship

    McIntyre is a former IC Champion, winning the title in December 2009 and holding the gold until May 2010.

    Though he was suspended (in storyline) and stripped of the title by then SmackDown GM Teddy Long, an edict by Mr. McMahon undid Long’s actions, and WWE counts McIntyre’s run as one, uninterrupted reign.

    Sheamus is yet to hold the Intercontinental Championship, which is the only title he needs to complete the Grand Slam.

    Both McIntyre and Sheamus have spoken previously about wanting to be the one to dethrone the Austrian, and Sheamus’ pursuit of the title led to the much-acclaimed match at WWE Clash at the Castle last September.

    Triple H Praises “Incredible” GUNTHER After Record-Breaking Rumble Performance
  • Another Law Firm Investigating WWE & Vince McMahon On Behalf of Shareholders

    Another Law Firm Investigating WWE & Vince McMahon On Behalf of Shareholders

    Vince McMahon is back and in charge of WWE once more, but the Chairman isn’t exactly feeling the love.

    McMahon returned to WWE’s Board of Directors less than a month ago and has since been appointed as Executive Chairman.

    The 77-year-old’s return has seen several departures, including his daughter Stephanie, and Man Jit Singh, the board member who oversaw last year’s investigation into the billionaire.

    Investigation

    It is believed by some that McMahon’s strong-arming his way back into WWE was in violation of rules set out by the company.

    Bronstein, Gewirtz, & Grossman announced this week that they are investigating WWE for “violations of the securities laws” on behalf of WWE investors.

    The investigation will look into “whether WWE and/or the company’s officers and directors violated the securities laws or breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the above-alleged misconduct.”

    More Investigations

    This investigation by Bronstein, Gewirtz, & Grossman is just the latest in a growing list of investigations looking at Mcmahon’s return.

    It has previously been reported that Detroit’s Police and Fire Retirement System filed a lawsuit against McMahon after being voted back on to the WWE Board of Directors.

    Another lawsuit into McMahon has been filed in Delaware’s Chancery Court, alleging McMahon pushed aside the board to install himself as chairman again illegally. 

    A separate lawsuit, suing over McMahon’s alleged history of paying to cover up sexual harassment accusations, also questions the legitimacy of McMahon’s return to WWE.

    It was reported that McMahon (WWE’s majority shareholder) was ready to vote against any sales offers or TV rights deals if he was not brought back to the promotion.

    Vince McMahon Has Not Attended Any TV Tapings or Creative Meetings Yet (Report)
  • Brock Lesnar Got Heat Backstage Over Unplanned WWE Royal Rumble Spots

    Brock Lesnar Got Heat Backstage Over Unplanned WWE Royal Rumble Spots

    Brock Lesnar’s time in the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match was short and sweet, but earned the Beast Incarnate some backstage heat.

    After returning to WWE programming on the Raw is XXX episode, costing Bobby Lashley his United States Championship match against Austin Theory.

    Lashley (who returned to WWE in 2018 in the hopes of facing Lesnar,) got a (controversial) win over Brock at Royal Rumble 2022, with Lesnar getting his win back (also in controversial circumstances) at WWE Crown Jewel. Entering the Royal Rumble last weekend, Lesnar scored three eliminations before his shocking elimination by Lashley.

    The former WWE Universal Champion lasted less than three minutes in the Rumble match but earned heat backstage over his actions after his elimination. Fightful Select reports that while a post-elimination freakout by Lesnar was planned, some of what happened caught many by surprise.

    Some in the ring were not prepared for Lesnar’s spot with the steel steps, and the spot where Lesnar threw a piece of the announcer’s table in the ring was also unplanned.

    The spot that earned Lesnar some heat was an unplanned situation when referee Eddie Orengo was thrown over the barricade.

    Sources in WWE told Fightful that it was initially believed that Orengo may have injured his foot, and his status remains unclear at this time.

    Orengo was supposed to raise the hand of Cody Rhodes, the winner of the Men’s Rumble match, but that was changed as he needed to sell Lesnar’s attack.

    No Punishment?

    While Brock’s actions caught many off-guard, the former Universal Champion is unlikely to face any serious consequences.

    One source told Fightful “heat is a relative term for Brock Lesnar. He’s not going to get in trouble.”

    The source added that WWE is under a new regime, but Lesnar’s standing seemingly stays the same, and said that while not everyone was mad backstage, some were.

    Looking Back At Brock Lesnar’s Dominant Run Through The WWE King Of The Ring Tournament
  • Charlotte Flair Only Learned Of Title Win While at the Final SmackDown of 2022

    Charlotte Flair Only Learned Of Title Win While at the Final SmackDown of 2022

    WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship Charlotte Flair is once again back on top, but her win came out of the blue.

    Flair returned to WWE programming on the December 30, episode of WWE SmackDown on FOX, where she dethroned Ronda Rousey.

    The match came after Rousey had already retained her title against Raquel Rodriguez, and marked Flair’s first appearance on WWE TV since May 2022.

    Out of the Blue

    Flair’s win was a shock to fans, as there had been no inclination of her return, but it also came as a shock to Flair.

    Speaking to Ryan Satin on the Out of Character podcast, Flair recalled learning of her latest championship victory.

    “I didn’t find out I was winning the title until I got there. I didn’t have gear with me. My amazing cleaning lady brought me my gear. I should have known better. I’m coming to a wrestling show, I just brought my outfit.

    “I thought it was just going to be a walkout surprise because I had been gone for so long, I really didn’t need to be any major fireworks, but when I got there they were like, ‘You need your gear.’ I got the call at maybe 5ish that I needed gear, right before I got to the arena. She got to the arena around 7, 7:15.”

    The final SmackDown of 2022 took place in Tampa, Florida, not far from Flair’s residence where her gear was in Orlando.

    The Future

    Flair did not expect to be SmackDown Women’s Champion at this point in time, but the Queen is on the Road to WrestleMania 39.

    During this week’s Raw, Rhea Ripley, the winner of the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match, selected Flair as her WrestleMania 39 opponent.

    The two previously faced off at WrestleMania 36, where Flair dethroned the Australian to capture the NXT Women’s Championship.

    Ric Flair Believes Charlotte vs. Rhea Ripley Should Be A WrestleMania Main Event

    h/t – Fightful

  • Dave Bautista Questions Why He Never Gets Rom-Com Movie Offers: “Am I That Unattractive?”

    Dave Bautista Questions Why He Never Gets Rom-Com Movie Offers: “Am I That Unattractive?”

    Former WWE Superstar Dave Bautista has made a name for himself in the world of Hollywood, but only under specific types of roles.

    With his impressive physique, the Animal is no stranger to action films, such as his role as Drax in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or as evil henchman Mr. Hinx in James Bond’s Spectre.

    Unappealing

    While Bautista has joined the likes of John Cena and Dwayne Johnson as a wrestler-turned-actor, the former World Champion is yet to show his more romantic side.

    Speaking to Page Six, Bautista questioned why offers for a rom-com continue to allude him.

    “I know I’m not your typical rom-com lead. I’m a little rough around the edges. But I always, you know, I look in the mirror and I say, I ask myself, ‘Am I that unattractive? Is there something that unappealing about me that excludes me from these parts?’”

    Dave Bautista.

    The Animal’s next film, Knock at the Cabin, which sees Bautista and others try to thwart the apocalypse by forcing a family to make an impossible choice, lands in cinemas this Friday.

    Genres

    Bautista may be best known for his action roles, but the future WWE Hall of Famer has been able to push outside that genre.

    For Blade Runner 2049, the retired wrestler showed a more subdued side, and will show yet another different side in Knock at the Cabin.

    Bautista has been able to flex his comedy muscles with projects like Stuber, and his years as a beloved babyface in WWE prepared him well for family movies like My Spy.

    Batista on Acting: I Never Wanted to be The Next Rock
  • The Rock Not Competing at WrestleMania 39 “Not a Work” – Door Remains Open for 2024 (Report)

    The Rock Not Competing at WrestleMania 39 “Not a Work” – Door Remains Open for 2024 (Report)

    Is Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson being honest when he says that he doesn’t feel he’s ready for a match at WrestleMania 39?

    In a word, yes.

    For years, fans have speculated on a possible match between the People’s Champion and his cousin Roman Reigns.

    It was reported last year that WWE was actively pursuing the match for this year’s WrestleMania 39 event.

    Not a Work

    Earlier this month, it was reported that Johnson had informed WWE that he did not feel like he could get in an adequate ring shape in time for WrestleMania.

    Of course, this statement has caused fans to believe he is going to compete, and that this claim is just to try and throw fans off the proverbial ‘scent.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that when The Rock says he’s not wrestling, he means it.

    “Dwayne could be there [WrestleMania 39 in Los Angeles, California] in some form or fashion. I mean there are some people going ‘don’t you think it’s a swerve?’ It’s not a swerve. I mean I’ve been told this for a while. Of course, there’s always the idea that maybe, there’s a secret. Like the Pat McAfee thing [referencing the commentator’s return at last Saturday’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event.] Only a few people know about that. But we’re past that point.

    “Cody won the Royal Rumble, he’s getting that championship match. It ain’t going to be Dwayne anymore.”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Other Plans

    The Rock could still appear at WWE’s showcase of the immortals, even if a match is off the table.

    On his show, Meltzer reiterated that Johnson will not be wrestling at WrestleMania 39, but said the option remains open for down the line.

    “Dwayne’s not wrestling anyone else on this show. Unless it’s a three-second match like he did with [Erick Rowan at WrestleMania 32.] He could go do that. He could do an angle if he wants to. But he did not feel like he had the time [to prepare for a match.] Which is basically what the story was. He did not feel that he had the time to get in the shape he needed to be in to do a WrestleMania-caliber main event. And the door is open for next year, if he has more time.”

    “The door is open for next year, if he has more time.”

    Johnson’s seven-second win over Rowan in 2016 was an attempt for the Brahma Bull to set the record for the fastest victory at a WrestleMania.

    ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin has Turned Down Offer for WrestleMania 39 Match (Report)

    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin has Turned Down Offer for WrestleMania 39 Match (Report)

    ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin has Turned Down Offer for WrestleMania 39 Match (Report)

    It seems like WrestleMania 39 will come and go without a match from ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, despite his impressive showing last year.

    At WrestleMania 38, Austin competed in his first match since March 2003, defeating Kevin Owens in the main event of WrestleMania: Saturday.

    It has been reported that WWE was trying to coax Austin into another match this year, with names like Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar being considered opponents.

    Not Happening

    With WrestleMania 39 drawing closer, WWE has yet to give any indication that Austin will compete at the show.

    On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that Austin has no intention on competing this April.

    “They did talk about Austin. As far as Austin goes, Steve might be at the show. I mean I wouldn’t be surprised at all. He might do something on the show, but he did in fact turn down wrestling at the show. He was offered Brock Lesnar, he was offered Roman Reigns. Probably, he could have named his opponent if he wanted to do it with anybody else. But he did not choose to wrestle on the show.”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Austin at WrestleMania

    If a match isn’t happening for the Rattlesnake, that doesn’t mean that Austin won’t be featured at WrestleMania.

    As one of (if not the) biggest stars in wrestling, WWE would be wise to have Austin on the show, even if he doesn’t wrestle.

    Austin has proven himself to be a referee at WrestleMania, officiating Brock Lesnar Vs. Goldberg (WrestleMania 20,) and Jerry Lawler vs Michael Cole (WrestleMania 27.)

    The Texas Rattlesnake could also serve as a guest host, as we saw by The Rock (WrestleMania 27,) Hulk Hogan (WrestleMania 30,) Alexa Bliss (WrestleMania 35), and the combination of Hogan and Titus O’Neil (WrestleMania 37.)

    Kevin Owens on His WrestleMania Match With Steve Austin: ‘I Still Don’t Know How That Happened’

    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • WWE Royal Rumble 2023 Main Event Was A “Curtain Sellout” Backstage

    WWE Royal Rumble 2023 Main Event Was A “Curtain Sellout” Backstage

    Sami Zayn’s turn at the end of Royal Rumble 2023 captivated the 51,000+ fans in the Alamodome, millions watching worldwide, and the WWE roster and crew.

    In the main event, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns retained his title against Kevin Owens, and the Bloodline continued their beatdown post-match.

    When Zayn refused to attack his best friend, he instead struck Reigns with a steel chair, and was beaten down by the Bloodline (sans Jey Uso) for his insubordination.

    Curtain Sellout

    The main event of WWE Royal Rumble 2023 and what transpired after the match has been heralded by many as some of the company’s best storytelling in years.

    The segment was also a hit backstage, with Fightful Select reporting that it was a “curtain sellout” with wrestlers and the crew gathering around monitors to see what happened.

    It has been reported that WWE’s plan for this angle will see Zayn challenge the Tribal Chief at next month’s WWE Elimination Chamber event, in Sami’s hometown of Montreal.

    During this week’s Raw, 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match winner Cody Rhodes confirmed his plans to challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 39.

    Rumble Backstage

    After the disaster of last year’s Royal Rumble (which resulted in Shane McMahon being fired) a lot was riding on this year’s event.

    Fightful adds that the mood backstage was “very laid back” and that the children of several wrestlers were having fun behind the scenes.

    The WWE Royal Rumble Premium Live Event went a bit over time, as it was scheduled for four hours and lasted four hours and 12 minutes.

    Pat McAfee Was Originally Supposed to Return in WWE Royal Rumble Match
  • Bianca Belair’s WrestleMania Opponent Will Be Decided in the Elimination Chamber

    Bianca Belair’s WrestleMania Opponent Will Be Decided in the Elimination Chamber

    Six WWE Superstars will fight next month inside the Elimination Chamber, with a prize of WrestleMania-sized proportions on the line

    During this week’s Raw, 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Rhea Ripley announced that she will face SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair this April.

    Ripley explained that she plans on getting payback for Flair defeating her at WrestleMania 36, and winning the NXT Women’s Championship in the process.

    Elimination Chamber

    Ripley Vs. Flair is set for WrestleMania 39, which leaves Bianca Belair without a dance partner for the biggest event of the year.

    During Raw, it was confirmed that Belair’s WrestleMania opponent will be decided inside the Elimination Chamber next month.

    Adam Pearce named four women who have already qualified by being the four final women in the Women’s Royal Rumble match: Raquel Rodriguez, Asuka, Liv Morgan, and Nikki Cross.

    Next week, another spot will be filled when Candice LeRae, Piper Niven, Mia ‘Michin’ Yim, and the returning Carmella, compete in fatal four-way action.

    Women’s Elimination Chamber

    Originally a match-type solely for the men-folk, it wouldn’t be until 2018 that fans saw their first Women’s Elimination Chamber match.

    At the 2018 Elimination Chamber event, Raw Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss would step into the structure with the gold and would also leave as champion.

    In 2019, the Boss ‘n Hug Connection became the first WWE Women’s Tag Champions, in the first (and so far, only) Women’s Tag Chamber match.

    2020 saw Shayna Baszler decimate the competition, eliminating every opponent in that year’s Women’s Chamber match.

    While there was no women’s Chamber match in 2021, 2022 saw Bianca Belair earn a WrestleMania Raw Women’s title match inside the barbaric structure.

    Elimination Chamber Main Event Will Culminate the Top Storyline in WWE

  • Seth Rollins’ WrestleMania Opponent Becomes Apparent at WWE Raw

    Seth Rollins’ WrestleMania Opponent Becomes Apparent at WWE Raw

    Seth Rollins won’t have to wait until the day of WrestleMania to find out his opponent this year, as who he’ll face this April is abundantly clear.

    This year’s show will mark Rollins’ 10th WrestleMania appearance, after making his Mania debut with the Shield back at WrestleMania 29 in 2013.

    WrestleMania 39

    At last weekend’s Royal Rumble, Rollins hoped to win his second Men’s Rumble match (his first win coming in 2019) but that was thwarted by Logan Paul.

    Rollins entered the match at #15 and scored two eliminations in his 37 minutes in the match, before being the 27th person eliminated.

    In a backstage interview at Raw, Rollins was his usual confident, cocky, self, but his mood completely changed when asked about Logan Paul.

    Paul has impressed so far, and Rollins is a great opponent for him, as the former Universal Champion is a veteran who can push Paul to be his best in a fast-paced match.

    WrestleMania 39

    It had previously been reported that WWE’s plans called for John Cena to face Logan Paul but that obviously isn’t the direction anymore.

    It has been reported that scrapping the Cena-Paul match is due to the belief that Cena will not have time to train and rehearse a match with the talented, but inexperienced YouTuber.

    More recent reports state that the plan now is for Cena to take on WWE United States Champion Austin Theory in the former’s first WrestleMania match since 2020, and his first non-cinematic WrestleMania match since 2018.

    During this week’s Raw, it was confirmed that Cody Rhodes will challenge Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns this April.

    2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match winner Rhea Ripley also declared that she will challenge SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 39.

  • Cody Rhodes’ WWE 2K23 Entrance Video is a Sight to Behold

    Cody Rhodes’ WWE 2K23 Entrance Video is a Sight to Behold

    Cody Rhodes is back in WWE and on the road to WrestleMania 39, and fans will soon get to play as the American Nightmare.

    Rhodes made an emphatic return at last weekend’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, entering the men’s match at #30 and eliminating five Superstars.

    Cody tossed out WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER to win the match after the Austrian broke the record for the longest time in a 30-Man Rumble match.

    In the Game

    Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE has been cemented with the American Nightmare’s inclusion into WWE 2K23.

    On Twitter, fans caught their first glimpse of Rhodes’ entrance in the upcoming video game.

    Rhodes is known as an avid video game fan, and early into his career, would include the Tri-Force from the Legend of Zelda on his ring attire.

    While some had hoped that Rhodes would be included in WWE 2K22, possibly as DLC, it was said that there wasn’t enough time to include the former AEW TNT Champion.

    WWE 2K23

    This will (if you include WWE 2K Battleground) be the tenth installment into the WWE 2K franchise, which began with WWE 2K14.

    WWE 2K23 will focus on the incredible career of John Cena, with a Showcase mode dedicated to some of the most important matches in John’s 20-year career.

    The upcoming game will also see the video game debut of the WarGames match, with 3v3 and 4v4 matches available to play inside the double-cage structure.

    WWE 2K23 will be released publicly on March 14, 2023 and you can pre-order the game by clicking here.

    Reigns vs. Rhodes, Flair vs. Ripley Set for WWE WrestleMania 39
  • Dave Bautista as Bane? WWE Legend Has Spoken with Director James Gunn About Portraying Iconic ‘Batman’ Villain

    Dave Bautista as Bane? WWE Legend Has Spoken with Director James Gunn About Portraying Iconic ‘Batman’ Villain

    Dave Batista may be a staple of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but WWE’s Animal has his eyes on the world of DC Comics.

    Since 2014, Batista has played Drax the Destroyer, a member of the Guardians of the Galaxy, and has won over audiences with his action scenes and his sense of humor.

    This year will see the release of Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3, which Batista has confirmed will be the final time he portrays Drax.

    DC Comics

    Drax is by far not the only muscle-bound character in Batista’s sights, as he hopes to one day play the DC Comics supervillain Bane.

    Speaking to Insider, Batista spoke about wanting to play the role but believes the opportunity has passed him by.

    “I have had conversations with James [Gunn, Head of DC’s film projects] about that but I think the direction he’s leaning in, completely rebooting that whole universe, he’s starting from scratch and starting younger and fresher and I think you need to do that.”

    Batista.

    The 54-year-old actor said that DC needs to start a plan for the next 15 years, something he believes he simply won’t be able to fit into.

    Several changes at Warner Bros. (who own the rights for DC’s film projects) have resulted in several plans being scrapped or severely altered.

    The Animal (and future WWE Hall of Famer) isn’t the only wrestler with his eyes on the role, as Braun Strowman shared his interest in playing Bane with an Instagram post in June 2021.

    The Man Who Broke the Bat

    Bane breaks the spine of Batman in one of the most shocking and iconic moments in comics.

    Debuting in comics as part of the 1993 Knightfall story, Bane didn’t just surpass Batman when it comes to strength but has a genius intellect that matches the Dark Knight.

    In one of the most infamous moments in comics, Bane, who had deduced Batman’s identity and the location of the Batcave, broke Bruce Wayne’s spine over his knee, rendering him temporarily paralyzed.

    On-screen, WCW wrestler Robert Swenson played Bane in the 1997 flop Batman and Robin, while Tom Hardy did the character more justice in 2012’s Dark Knight Rises.

    Batista on His First WWE World Title Win: “I Was So Unprepared”
  • LA Knight on Why His Max Dupri Character Didn’t Work

    LA Knight on Why His Max Dupri Character Didn’t Work

    LA Knight has proven to be a hit on WWE’s main roster, but only after ditching the name Max Dupri.

    Knight joined WWE in early 2021 after previous stints in TNA/Impact Wrestling and the NWA as Eli Drake, and is a former Impact World Champion.

    The 40-year-old wrestler made an impact (pardon the pun) upon his arrival to NXT, where he held the Million Dollar Championship.

    Dupri No More

    In May 2022, Knight was reintroduced to the WWE Universe as Max Dupri, the head of the Maximum Male Models.

    After his sister Maxine Dupri was introduced later that month, Dupri would split from the group, and revert to his LA Knight persona.

    Speaking to ComicBook.com, Knight explained why his tenure as Max Dupri was short-lived.

    “How honest do you want me to be? I’ll just say this, at the end of the day I can make anything work. But at the end of the day, I’ve got a real tough time not being [me]. I’ll tell you this, it wasn’t me. So when things came to pass and LA Knight started to shine through, it was the right place to go and not a moment too soon.”

    LA Knight.

    At WWE Royal Rumble 2023, Knight lost to Bray Wyatt in the Mountain Dew Pitch Black match, which marked Wyatt’s first televised match since returning to WWE.

    What’s in a Name?

    Whether it’s as LA Knight, Max Dupri, or Eli Drake, the SmackDown Superstar (real name Shaun Ricker) has made a name himself, but these aren’t his only names.

    Knight previously worked for WWE from 2013-2014 as Slate Randall but was primarily used as an enhancement talent.

    In 2011, Knight was an unnamed security guard during the infamous text message promo between Kevin Nash and CM Punk, when the latter joked that people thought Nash died years ago.

    Gamers may recognize Knight (or at least his voice) as “Paragon Jay Pierce” in WWE 2K22’s MyRise mode.

    LA Knight on Sharing the Ring With Undertaker, Being Managed by Paul Bearer
  • Elimination Chamber Main Event Will Culminate the Top Storyline in WWE

    Elimination Chamber Main Event Will Culminate the Top Storyline in WWE

    Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will seek to remind Sami Zayn who is the Head of the Table next month at WWE Elimination Chamber.

    At last weekend’s Royal Rumble event, Zayn’s tenure as the Honorary Uce ended when he refused to attack Kevin Owens, and instead struck Reigns with a steel chair.

    This moment of victory for Zayn was short-lived, as he was attacked by Reigns, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa immediately after.

    Elimination Chamber Main Event

    Reigns has been on the roll of his career since capturing the Universal Championship at Payback 2020, but Zayn is hoping to prevent the Tribal Chief from entering his third consecutive WrestleMania as Champion.

    Dave Meltzer reports that the main event of the upcoming show will see Zayn challenge Reigns for the title, in Sami’s hometown of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

    Sami Zayn and Roman REigns

    Though Meltzer said that plans are as always, subject to change, he said that major changes to plans have been far less frequent since Triple H’s appointment as Head of Creative.

    Next month’s event will be the first WWE Premium Live Event to take place in Montreal since Breaking Point in September 2009.

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2023 will take place on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at the Bell Centre in Montreal.

    Sami Zayn: Can He Do It?

    A year ago, the idea of Sami Zayn dethroning Roman Reigns was laughable, but there has been a growing consensus that this could happen.

    Not only will the Canadian have the home-field advantage, but Zayn’s popularity has proven to be undeniable in recent weeks.

    Many have compared Zayn today to Daniel Bryan circa 2014, and believe WWE may push him to the top as the crowd remains firmly on his side.

    There’s also the factor of Cody Rhodes (the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble winner) who has been one of WWE’s top babyfaces since returning to the promotion.

    WWE runs the risk of fans turning on Rhodes (a la AEW) if they push him instead of Zayn, and ironically, it was WWE’s steadfast focus on pushing Reigns as a babyface that caused the fans to turn on him.

    Sami Zayn Answers: Can He Be The Face of WWE?
  • WWE Reaches Interesting New Statistic With Royal Rumble 2023

    WWE Reaches Interesting New Statistic With Royal Rumble 2023

    Statistically, entering a Royal Rumble match from the #1 position is the worst possible number for a wrestler hoping to headline WrestleMania.

    As seen at the 2023 Royal Rumble, Rhea Ripley won the Women’s Rumble match from the #1 position and has made history in the process.

    With Ripley’s win, the #1 spot has now produced four winners, tying the coveted #27 spot.

    Being third from the last has often been touted as the best position to be in, with Big John Studd (1989,) Yokozuna (1993,) Bret Hart (1994,) and ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin (1997) all winning from #27.

    While #27 has long been considered the best spot, it has now fallen to second place, as Cody Rhodes’ victory in the #30 spot is the fifth overall.

    Winning from #1

    Rhea Ripley is just the latest Superstar (and first female) to win a Rumble match from the #1 position, and has joined some notable names.

    In 1995, Shawn Michaels became the first Superstar to go the distance, eliminating ‘The British Bulldog’ Davey Boy Smith, who had entered at #2.

    Nearly a decade later, Chris Benoit did the same, entering at #1 in 2004 and last eliminating the Big Show to earn a championship match at WrestleMania.

    Aware that then-SmackDown GM Paul Heyman was planning to screw him, Benoit jumped from SmackDown to Raw for his WrestleMania title opportunity.

    It was Benoit’s action that led to the rule that the Royal Rumble winner can choose which title they challenge for when there are two WWE World Championships.

    Fans would wait another 17 years before Edge won the Men’s Rumble at #1, at the (thankfully) only Rumble to happen without a live crowd.

    Gunther Sets Record for Longest Time in WWE’s Royal Rumble Match
  • Gallows & Anderson’s WWE Contracts Run For Several More Years

    Gallows & Anderson’s WWE Contracts Run For Several More Years

    Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson are locked into their WWE deals for quite some time, Fightful Select has learned.

    Gallows and Anderson returned to WWE in late 2022, coming to the aid of AJ Styles in his feud with the Judgment Day.

    Both men had previously been released by WWE in April 2020 as part of ‘Budget Cuts’ and had found success in Impact Wrestling, as well as other promotions.

    Contracts

    When Fightful Select asked sources in WWE, they were told that Gallows and Anderson are under five-year WWE contracts that have them set to stay until late 2027.

    These deals are far longer than the typical WWE contract, which like other promotions is a standard three-year deal.

    As WWE’s Head of Relations, Triple H oversaw the return of Gallows and Anderson, and it is reported that he encouraged the pair to re-sign with WWE in 2019, over tempting offers from Impact, AEW, and NJPW.

    Fightful’s report suggests that the Game felt bad that he cost The O.C. opportunities elsewhere, only for them to be released in April 2020, hence their longer new deals.

    Gallows and Anderson

    After debuting in WWE in 2016 (as part of AJ Styles’ feud with John Cena,) it wasn’t long before Gallows and Anderson captured their first of two reigns as Raw Tag Team Champions.

    The pair also has the distinction of being part of The Undertaker’s final match, as they (unsuccessfully) aided Styles during the Boneyard match at WrestleMania 36.

    Though the pair have worked with Styles since returning, the Phenomenal One is currently out of action after suffering an injury at a WWE live event.

    Karl Anderson Addresses Being Booked on The Same Date by WWE and NJPW
  • Cody Rhodes to Appear on Logan Paul’s ImPaulsive Podcast This Week

    Cody Rhodes to Appear on Logan Paul’s ImPaulsive Podcast This Week

    Cody Rhodes’ road to the main event of WWE WrestleMania 39 will see him make a stop as the guest of Logan Paul’s ImPaulsive podcast.

    Rhodes returned to competition at last Saturday’s event, entering the Men’s Rumble match at #30 and winning the entire thing.

    The American Nightmare eliminated five Superstars (including Paul) to win, last tossing out Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER, who was the #1 entrant.

    ImPaulsive Podcast

    In a video from the official ImPaulsive podcast Twitter account, Cody confirmed that he and the Maverick had just wrapped up recording an episode of the show.

    Rhodes also brought up the fact that he eliminated Paul, to which the young Superstar insisted “I’m not mad, because you did our show.”

    Like Rhodes, Paul made his own return from injury as part of the Men’s Royal Rumble match, his first time in the 30-man contest.

    Entering at #29, Paul lasted over 10 minutes in the match and was the penultimate person to be eliminated.

    WrestleMania

    With his win, Rhodes has earned the opportunity to challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania, currently held by Roman Reigns.

    Rhodes infamously vowed to become WWE Champion during his promo on the post-WrestleMania 38 Raw, and fulfill a promise to his late father, the American Dream Dusty Rhodes.

    As for Paul, the YouTuber had pitched to compete with John Cena this April, and at a time, it was reported that this match was in the works.

    With more recent reports of Cena Vs. U.S. Champion Austin Theory, it is now rumored that Paul will face Seth Rollins, who was eliminated by the Maverick at the Rumble.

    Logan Paul on a Tag Team With Jake Paul in WWE: “That Would be Amazing”

  • Triple H Praises “Incredible” GUNTHER After Record-Breaking Rumble Performance

    Triple H Praises “Incredible” GUNTHER After Record-Breaking Rumble Performance

    WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER did not win the Men’s Royal Rumble match, but the Austrian’s performance has had everybody talking.

    GUNTHER entered his first Royal Rumble match from the unfortunate #1 position, but lasted until the end and was the final person eliminated.

    The leader of Imperium lasted over 71 minutes, smashing Rey Mysterio’s record for the longest stint in a 30-Man Royal Rumble match.

    Incredible

    Joining WWE as WALTER as part of NXT UK and later WWE NXT, GUNTHER’s career with the promotion is closely tied to Triple H.

    Speaking at the Royal Rumble 2023 post-show press conference, the Game had nothing but praise for the Intercontinental Champion.

    “Sometimes when people look at the Royal Rumble, they just look at the winner. I tend to look at who has the moments that are most spectacular. That’s what our business really a lot of the time is. It’s about those big moments. That moment that catapult’s you to another moment that raises you up to another even bigger moment.”

    “There were a lot of people who had moments tonight. Logan Paul and Ricochet. It’s one of the craziest things I’ve ever seen. Cody with the win. But GUNTHER, going in there at number one, with Sheamus which is tough enough because you know you’re going to take a beating.”

    “To have the performance that he did, all through that hour [was incredible.] There was never a moment in that Rumble match I feel where you lost GUNTHER. Where he just blended into the background. He stood out the whole thing. He’s a star. He is an incredible talent.”

    “He stood out the whole thing. He’s a star. He is an incredible talent.”

    Triple H.

    “It’s funny how many talents come to me when they walk through that curtain after they work with him, whether it’s briefly or whether it’s a long match, and walk through that curtain and say ‘oh my God. He’s incredible.’ He’s a special talent and he had a big night tonight and I’m excited to see where he can take that. If each moment leads to another, I’m excited to see where he takes it next.”

    GUNTHER on Potential Brock Lesnar Match: “I Would Gladly Take It”

    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • Cody Rhodes Calls WWE Royal Rumble Win “Biggest Night of My Career”

    Cody Rhodes Calls WWE Royal Rumble Win “Biggest Night of My Career”

    The American Nightmare is one step closer to fulfilling his promise to his father the American Dream.

    Entering the Men’s Royal Rumble match at the coveted #30 spot, Cody Rhodes eliminated 5 Superstars to win the match, earning a Championship opportunity at WrestleMania 39.

    Rhodes’ final elimination saw him throw out GUNTHER, who broke the record for the longest time in a traditional Royal Rumble match.

    Biggest Night of My Career

    For Cody Rhodes, the road to this victory has been far from easy.

    Cody was not with WWE this time last year, and plans for his return were severely delayed by his torn pectoral muscle injury last June.

    Throughout his recovery, Rhodes has been on the receiving end of well-wishes from fans and those within the industry.

    Speaking after the match to Ryan Satin, Rhodes thanked the fans for their support

    “Thank you for everything. I can’t thank you enough [from the] bottom of my heart. The biggest night of my career so thank you very much.”

    Cody Rhodes.

    WrestleMania Moment

    With this victory, Rhodes now has a World Championship match assured for WrestleMania, something that alluded the American Nightmare during his first run with WWE.

    In a separate interview with Cathy Kelley, an emotional Rhodes made it clear he’s looking forward to walking into his first WrestleMania main event.

    “I don’t have a, sorry I’m very emotional. I don’t have a frame of reference. I’ve never punched a ticket to WrestleMania.

    “I don’t have any words other than, I’ve got to finish it, right? There’s no one better in the world than Roman Reigns. I can’t say I’m better, but I have to beat him to say I’m better.”

    Unless Reigns drops the title before April, the Tribal Chief will face the American Nightmare at WrestleMania 39.

    Original WWE WrestleMania 39 Pitch for Cody Rhodes Revealed
  • Chelsea Green Returns at WWE Royal Rumble – Breaks Rumble Record

    Chelsea Green Returns at WWE Royal Rumble – Breaks Rumble Record

    Chelsea Green has made her long-anticipated return to WWE, though her return didn’t go as she had planned.

    Green was released from WWE in April 2021, months after suffering an injury during her debut match on SmackDown in November 2020.

    After her WWE departure, Green returned to Impact Wrestling, where she became a former Impact Knockouts Tag Team Champion.

    Rumble Return

    After her contract with Impact Wrestling expired, it was reported that Green was set to return to WWE.

    Green had been teasing her return to WWE for months and said in November 2022 that she would be open to the idea, while saying she doubted she would join All Elite Wrestling.

    It had also been reported that the Canadian wrestler had been re-signed for months, and was waiting on WWE’s Creative team to figure out her return.

    That return came as part of the Women’s Royal Rumble as the #20 entrant.

    This match marked Green’s second time in a Royal Rumble, after competing in the 2020 Women’s Rumble match, where she eliminated Dakota Kai.

    Unfortunate Record

    Chelsea Green is once again a WWE Superstar, but she had the worst performance in the Women’s Royal Rumble match.

    Green was immediately tossed over the top rope, and her four-second stint has broken the record as the shortest appearance in a Women’s Royal Rumble match.

    Prior to the Canadian Superstar, the record was held by Liv Morgan, who was thrown over the top rope in 2019 after lasting eight seconds.

    Chelsea Green Discusses Possibility of the Cardonas in WWE or AEW
  • Roman Reigns Addresses The Rock Not Being Ready for WWE WrestleMania 39

    Roman Reigns Addresses The Rock Not Being Ready for WWE WrestleMania 39

    Roman Reigns has spoken candidly about the possibility (or lack thereof) of facing his cousin The Rock at WrestleMania 39.

    A showdown between the two members of the Anoa’I family has been a dream match for years, and it was reported last year that WWE was actively pursuing the match.

    The Rock’s most recent match was an eight-second win over Erick Rowan in 2016, while his most recent full match saw him lose to John Cena at WrestleMania 29.

    Roman Reigns

    While The Rock Vs. Reigns was once considered a virtual lock for WrestleMania, that is no longer the case.

    Earlier this month, it was reported that The Rock has informed WWE that he does not believe there is enough time for him to prepare for the Mania match.

    Speaking on the Tonight Show to promote tonight’s Royal Rumble, Reigns addressed the match seemingly being off the table.

    “I believe he just came out with a statement saying that he’s not gonna be ready in time, which, that’s the face that everyone’s making, like, ‘Hold on! He trains every single day. He’s huge!’ In his defense, it’s one thing to train with weights, the bodybuilding, the look, the part… but, to be able to get in the ring and do a main event match, a championship match, it takes a lot of conditioning, it beats up your body.

    “So there’s more that goes into it than training in the weight room. It’s a professional athlete type of situation where you have to condition. He does two out of three things perfectly. His nutrition and weight training is on point, but you have to condition yourself, you gotta be ready to fall down.”

    With The Rock not expected at WrestleMania, (and therefore tonight’s Rumble) other favorites to win the Men’s Rumble match include Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn.

    Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship tonight against Kevin Owens.

  • Triple H Provides Update on Upcoming WWE NXT Europe Brand

    Triple H Provides Update on Upcoming WWE NXT Europe Brand

    WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque has provided an update for the much-anticipated NXT Europe.

    The new brand was announced last August and coincided with the end of NXT UK as WWE’s overseas brand.

    Following the announcement of NXT Europe, almost all talent from NXT UK was released, with only a select few being moved to WWE NXT in the U.S.

    NXT Europe

    With considerable backlash from fans over the mass releases from NXT UK, a lot is riding on NXT Europe to be a runaway success.

    Speaking to Variety, Triple H shed light on WWE’s plans for NXT Europe.

    “There’s been a lot of progress on it. We are very excited about the prospect of taking NXT in a larger global direction. I would like to be able to find the best athletes and the largest personalities and the most entertaining people from every place in the world, and bring them into what we do.”

    Triple H.

    Triple H, who is also WWE’s Head of Talent Relations, also spoke about the importance of searching all over for talent to bring to NXT Europe.

    “When you begin to create those characters and those stars from every region, those regions become more engaged in what we do. If you can begin to go to all these places, and begin to find athletes there that can resonate on a global stage, some will make it big.”

    Triple H.

    The Game did not provide any date for when NXT Europe will premiere, though the brand is expected to air at some point in 2023.

    Amale Discusses Wrestling Meiko Satomura, Possible NXT Europe Involvement, NXT UK Mentors, & More
  • WWE’s Saudi Deal “Absolutely a Factor” in Possible Sami Zayn World Title Push (Report)

    WWE’s Saudi Deal “Absolutely a Factor” in Possible Sami Zayn World Title Push (Report)

    Could WWE’s relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia snuff out plans for a World Championship push for Sami Zayn?

    Zayn is arguably the most popular WWE Superstar competing today, having won over audiences with his work as the Honorary Uce.

    With tensions continuing to boil in the Bloodline, many feel it is a matter of time before Zayn challenges Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

    Sami and Saudi Arabia

    Sami Zayn is a regular on WWE TV, but due to his Syrian heritage, the decision was made years ago to keep him away from events in Saudi Arabia.

    That didn’t stop fans from chanting for the Honorary Uce during the press conference for last November’s Crown Jewel event in Riyadh.

    When Dave Meltzer was asked on Wrestling Observer Radio whether the Saudis could prevent Sami from becoming World Champion, the veteran journalist said that it could be a factor.

    “Yes, because Saudi Arabia would want the top guy and the champion. But John Cena hasn’t gone to Saudi Arabia lately [since 2018’s Greatest Royal Rumble.] And he’s a much bigger star than Sami. It’s something, but it’s not a death knell to him.”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Meltzer echoed recent comments from Zayn himself that even if he is to become champion, that won’t make the Honorary Uce the next face of the company.

    “They’re not going to make him the top guy. They can still make him the champion. Does Saudi Arabia play a part in the sense that they don’t want him in Saudi Arabia and he doesn’t want to go to Saudi Arabia anyway? And if he’s the champion, and they have a show coming up? Yes, that’s absolutely a factor. And it’s a really good point.”

    Getting Over

    Whether the Saudis will admit it or not, Sami Zayn is the most naturally ‘over’ star competing in WWE today.

    On his show, Meltzer discussed Zayn not having ‘the look’ of a top guy, and recalled when Bryan Danielson and CM Punk got ‘over’ years earlier.

    “Even if they’re over, in the minds of the people making the decisions, it’s ‘they’re over with our audiences, but they can’t really be over [in the mainstream.’] I’ve always argued that the test of who can get over is who gets over. There is no set thing.

    “I’ve always argued that the test of who can get over is who gets over.”

    Dave Meltzer.

    “Guys have gotten over and drawn big, big, giant, giant [numbers.] Mainstream stars have gotten over in different parts of the world and the country and everything like that, and they didn’t necessarily have to fit into this Roman Reigns look, not that there’s anything wrong with Roman Reigns.”

    After being found not guilty during the trial on this week’s Raw, Zayn will face a final challenge at tonight’s WWE Royal Rumble event.

    Zayn isn’t confirmed for the Men’s Rumble match, but his real-life best friend Kevin Owens will challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

    Sami Zayn: Becoming WWE Champion is “Not Totally Unrealistic”

    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • Yet Another WWE Vice President Departs Company

    Yet Another WWE Vice President Departs Company

    WWE’s promise that nothing would change following the return of Vince McMahon is seeming pretty hollow with the departure of another name backstage.

    McMahon returned to WWE as a member of the Board of Directors on January 6, 2023, and has since been appointed as Executive Chairman.

    In a meeting in WWE’s offices, Stephanie McMahon said that little would change with Vince’s return, days before her resignation as Chairwoman and co-CEO of the company.

    Departure

    WWE’s now former Vice President of International Matthew Drew has parted ways with the company, PW Insider was first to report.

    Drew took on the role in June 2021 and his departure is said to have come last week.

    Part of his role as VP of International was to work on “growing WWE’s brand and business outside of the United States.” 

    In addition, Drew worked “with other company leaders to devise WWE’s international strategy for live events, digital, consumer products, and new revenue opportunities.”

    Other Departures

    Matthew Drew is hardly the only person to part ways with WWE following the return of Vince McMahon.

    McMahon being reappointed to the Board saw the billionaire return with Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, and the departures of JoEllen Lyons Dillon, Jeffrey Speed, and Alan Wexler.

    Ignace Lahoud and Man Jit Singh (the latter having overseen the investigation into McMahon) resigned the following morning.

    Drew is the latest vice president to part ways with the company after Stefanie Fiondella and Adam Hopkins tendered their resignations as Vice Presidents of Communication.

    The company also recently laid off multiple names from their offices in Stamford, though no Superstars have been released at this time.

    Stephanie McMahon Was Slated For Demotion Before WWE Exit (Report)
  • Latest on Why Warner Bros. Discovery Banned The Briscoes from AEW TV

    Latest on Why Warner Bros. Discovery Banned The Briscoes from AEW TV

    Mark Briscoe was allowed to compete on this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite, but only after a lot of pushback from Warner Bros. Discovery.

    In the main event of the show, Briscoe defeated Jay Lethal in a tribute match to Mark’s brother Jay, who died earlier this month.

    It has been reported that the match was not approved until the day before Dynamite and that multiple segments were shortened to give the main event plenty of time

    Warner Bros. Discovery Ban

    Jay Briscoe unfortunately never got the chance to compete on AEW TV, due to a ban against the brothers implemented by Warner Bros. Discovery.

    This ban was due to controversial tweets made by Jay a decade ago, comments that Briscoe would apologize for and explain as part of his heel character.

    The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that WBD also had an issue with Jay and Mark’s use of the Confederate flag for their wrestling attire in the past.

    It’s noted that as part of their agreement with AEW, Warner Bros. Discovery has the power to remove anyone from TV they do not wish to appear.

    Following Mark’s debut, it was said that the ban on him is lifted and he is free to appear on future AEW programming.

    What’s Next?

    Jay’s daughters, who were in the car at the time of the accident, have undergone surgery and both are said to be doing okay despite what’s happened.

    A fundraiser has been created to support Jay’s family, as well as the family of the other driver, who was also killed in the crash.

    Mark has spoken about his brother, saying that Jay is still with him in spirit, and that he’s going to keep pushing forward.

    AEW Dynamite Results (1/25/23): Jay Briscoe Tribute, Darby Allin vs. Buddy Matthews