Consumers of The Rock’s new energy drink will experience ‘Big Dwayne Energy’ according to a new ad campaign from the Bloodline member. 

 BDE is the newest beverage from ZOA Energy, which is the sports drink company owned by the Brahma Bull. In a statement, Chief Visionary Officer Dany Garcia had this to say about BDE: 

“At ZOA Energy, we are illustrating that everyone has access to “Big Dwayne Energy” – this intangible concept of fearlessly owning who you are and unapologetically sharing your one-of-a-kind self with the world. By embracing this mindset and fueling the body with ZOA, people not only feel energized but confident, bold, and determined to reach their full potential.”

The Rock, who is the company’s ‘Chief Energy Officer,’ also weighed in on the impact of ZOA Energy: 

“When someone with a great, radiating energy enters the room, people feel it. ZOA Energy helps you be that best version of yourself and positively influence those around you – confidently owning your authentic self, having fun and doing your best to live life to the fullest. Before you know it, everyone is hooked on ZOA.”

ZOA Energy has also released a new video promoting BDE which shows consumers (literally) experiencing Big Dwayne Energy. The humorous commercial ends with modern-day Dwayne Johnson sharing the screen with his 90s counterpart. 

The Rock’s Other Ventures

In addition to ZOA, The Rock has his own award-winning Tequila brand which was launched in October of 2019. The Brahma Bull is also a co-owner of the United Football League. The UFL was confirmed last year and saw Johnson’s XFL merge with the USFL.

Roman Reigns has surpassed almost every other WWE Superstar when it comes to his dominant title run, and the Tribal Chief has even surpassed an entire era. 

Reigns’ historic tenure as champion began on August 30, 2020, at that year’s Payback event. Reigns, who had returned to WWE TV the week prior at SummerSlam, defeated ‘The Fiend’ Bray Wyatt and Braun Strowman in a triple-threat match to capture the gold. Reigns entered the match near the closing moments of the bout, signing a contract to make his participation in the bout official mere moments before his title victory. 

Surpassing An Era

Roman Reigns has dominated WWE for years, and now has surpassed the much-beloved Attitude Era. In WWE, the famed era is considered as lasting from Survivor Series 1997 (the Montreal Screwjob) to WrestleMania X-Seven in April 2021. This period of time spanned over 1,239 days. Recently, the Tribal Chief’s Universal title reign surpassed this figure. Roman Reigns is currently enjoying day 1268 of his historic tenure as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. 

What’s Next? 

Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40. While Reigns intended to face The Rock this April (ensuring the title remained within his family) Rhodes’ decision to face Reigns has ruined the Bloodline’s plans. On last week’s episode of WWE SmackDown, The Rock officially joined the Bloodline. In his first heel promo in years, The Rock mocked Cody’s ‘crybaby’ fans and vowed that his goal at WrestleMania is to ensure Rhodes doesn’t finish his story in Philadelphia. 

Paul Heyman has been by his Tribal Chief’s side for years, but who could be next for the legendary manager… 

It may be some time yet before fans see Netflix’s docuseries on the life of Vince McMahon, due to the allegations against him. 

McMahon re-signed from TKO and WWE last month, following a lawsuit filed by ex-employee Janel Grant. Miss Grant claims that McMahon was sexually abusive to her and that he trafficked her to others in the company, including a former UFC Heavyweight Champion.

Netflix Docuseries Delayed? 

In 2020, a docuseries focusing on McMahon was announced, though a lot has changed since this project was first revealed. While it was reported in 2022 that the project was scrapped, it was later confirmed that this was not the case. 

On a recent edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer discussed the future of the Netflix project. Meltzer said that while the project was set to be released soon, the resignation of McMahon may have resulted in the project being delayed. 

“I haven’t heard anything about [the release of] the doc. This changes the whole doc 100%… They were done. It was going to be out very, very soon. I don’t know how it can possibly be out very, very soon now.”

WWE And Netflix

It’s unclear when this project will be released, but WWE is set to have close ties with Netflix in due time. In January of next year, WWE Monday Night Raw will move to Netflix as part of a five billion dollar deal with the streaming service. Fans outside the U.S. will also receive SmackDown, and WWE NXT, as well as Premium Live Events. 

The recovery of Dakota Kai has seen the former WWE Women’s Tag Champion train with UFC fighter and TKO ally Israel Adesanya. 

In May of last year, Kai suffered a torn ACL that has kept her out of action ever since. While Kai hasn’t been competing, she has remained a presence on WWE programming as part of Damage CTRL. Recently though, Kai sided with Bayley upon the Role Model’s exit from the faction. Bayley will challenge WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY at WrestleMania 40.

On a recent episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, Kai was spotted out of her knee brace, raising speculation that she was healed. Kai would later explain that she simply forgot her brace for the show. On Instagram this week, Kai shared a photo of her training session with UFC’s Israel Adesanya, and was once again sans knee brace. The pair trained together at the City Kickboxing event in Kai’s native New Zealand.

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C3g-LOmLfPa

Israel Adesanya

While he’s yet to compete for WWE, Adesanya’s love for pro wrestling can’t be denied. For UFC 276 in 2022, Adesanya made an Undertaker themed entrance that caught the attention of the WWE Hall of Famer. Adesanya has also been open to competing for WWE but believes such a match would be a one off.

Fans attending WrestleMania 40 will be able to enjoy a time like no other as part of the ‘WWE World’ experience.

In a statement, WWE announced their partnership with Fanatics to produce WWE World, which will serve as a successor to the popular WrestleMania Axxess. 

Scott Zanghellini, WWE’s Co-Head of Revenue Strategy & Development, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Fanatics:

“Fanatics has a phenomenal ability to customize offerings for fans and we’re excited to partner with them on this first-of-its-kind experience for the WWE Universe at WrestleMania XL.”

Lance Fensterman, CEO of Fanatics Events, shared Zanghellini’s enthusiasm about the collaboration. 

 “Through unique content, Superstar access and immersive experiences, we look forward to curating a captivating event for all fans who are in Philadelphia for WWE’s marquee event.”

WWE World: What to Expect

Tickets for WWE World will go on sale this Thursday at 10 AM Eastern, with prices ranging from $30 to $300. Attendees can look forward to a diverse array of attractions, including roundtable discussions with top WWE Superstars, a WWE 2K24 gaming tournament, live podcast recordings, and direct memorabilia and autograph sales facilitated by Fanatics Live.

WWE World will be a five-day event, scheduled for April 4 to April 8 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The event will also feature a WWE Superstore filled with merchandise. 

WWE WrestleMania 40

WrestleMania 40 will take place on April 6, and April 7, and mark the promotion’s fifth two-night event. The card for the show so far is as follows: 

• Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns (c) Vs. Cody Rhodes

• WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY (c) Vs. Bayley

Former WWE Superstar Mandy Rose won’t have to worry about paying the bills for some time thanks to just one fan who paid for her FanTime account. 

Rose was released from WWE in December 2022, a day after she lost the NXT Women’s Champion to Roxanne Perez. Rose’s sudden release came after WWE officials learned of the explicit content shared on her website. Rose has stated that she was never given any warning to take her website down prior to her contract being terminated.

Mandy Rose’s Crazy Amount

Rose’s website has certainly granted the former NXT Superstar financial security. Within a month of her WWE departure, it was reported that the website had earned $1 million. Rose opened an OnlyFans account in September of last year. 

Speaking on the ‘Power Alphas‘ podcast hosted by her fiancé Tino Sabbatelli, Rose recalled one fan who was willing to pay big money to see her exclusive content. 

“I’ve had one person, I won’t say any names. One person, and this is on FanTime, spent $55,000 on me. One person. $55,000. So I’m like ‘Wow, what does he do for a living that he’s able to spend this kind of money on one person?’ $55,000. And it wasn’t even [over a long period.] It was definitely over a little time period. But it was definitely, yeah. Wild. So thank you! It is kind of crazy.”

Mandy rose says 1 person spent $55,000 on her onlyfans account

WHAT THE FUCK. pic.twitter.com/H1BVdMm2hm

— The Wrestle Plug (@wrestleplug_) February 19, 2024

Sabbatelli was also pleased to hear about his future wife’s boon, simply telling the fan who spent $50,000 “Thank you.”

Could Mandy Rose one day return to WWE… 

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

Could fans one day see Montez Ford step into the Octagon for a fight in the UFC? The former WWE Tag Team Champion certainly hopes so. 

Ford and his wife Bianca Belair attended the recent UFC 298 event, which took place at the Honda Center in California. The show was part of the first-ever WWE/UFC combo tickets, with attendees able to purchase seats for the show as well as this week’s episode of Raw. 

Montez Ford on UFC

Speaking to TNT Sports at UFC 298, Ford was asked if he’d ever shown interest in stepping into the Octagon. The Street Profit made it clear that it is something he’s considered.

“100 percent. Now I do get nervous about messing up this pretty face. I do look better in person, I know the camera is a little different. But I will say I’ve always been a fan of it, always trained for it. It is something I was talking about in the last two years, about actually going over and having a match. Seeing CM Punk, Brock Lesnar, and even Bobby Lashley, the guy I’m with now, doing different promotions, doing those fighting promotions… It’s something I had interest in but it got shut down quickly by… ahem [gestures to Belair.]”

Bianca Belair on UFC

While Ford is itching for a chance in the cage, Bianca Belair doesn’t share her husband’s desire. With that said, Belair made clear that she’d love to train with MMA fighters to hone her skills. 

“I would love to train and get the skills that they have. I’ve been in the ring with some women who have some of this background like Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler and they are tough. I would love to have some skills that they have. But as far as competing, I think I’m good in the WWE ring.”

WWE meets UFC ?

Is there an octagon appearance on the cards of either of these two superstars? @BiancaBelairWWE says no, but @MontezFordWWE didn't rule it out… ?

?? @CarolinePearce#UFC298 pic.twitter.com/QggnQfh8Oi

— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) February 18, 2024

What’s Next? 

While not a UFC cage, Belair will step inside the Elimination Chamber later this week for the Women’s Elimination Chamber match. Belair will face Tiffany Stratton, Becky Lynch, Naomi, Liv Morgan, and another entrant. A battle royal featuring Shayna Baszler, Mia Yim, Alba Fyre, Zelina Vega, and Zoey Stark will take place on this week’s Raw to decide the final entrant. 

H/T – Cageside Seats

Fans who attended the most recent Revolution Pro Wrestling event received a huge surprise in the form of reigning AEW International Champion Orange Cassidy. 

Cassidy was part of a multi-man scramble match that saw the International title on the line at the company’s High Stakes show.  He defended the gold against Sha Samuels, Spike Trivet, Richard Holliday, Cameron Khai, and TNA Wrestling’s Flash Morgan Webster. On Twitter, Rev Pro shared the moment Cassidy made his entrance and the electric response he received from the fans. 

Wait a minute! We thought Shigehiro Irie was the 6th man, but we now have a 7-way as @AEW's @orangecassidy is here – and it's for his International Championship!https://t.co/fX5Iut2Z5j#HighStakes2024 pic.twitter.com/UmyDl11HZ1

— Revolution Pro (@RevProUK) February 18, 2024

In a tweet of his own, Webster shared his delight at challenging for the AEW International Championship and believes it is a strong start to what will be an epic 2024. 

Just wrestled for the @AEW International Championship in front of 2000 rapid @RevProUK fans.

Starting off 2024 hot!

— Flash Morgan Webster (@Flash_Morgan) February 18, 2024

While Cassidy’s appearance at the show was a surprise, it was no secret that the Freshly Squeezed wrestler was overseas in the United Kingdom. Cassidy, alongside AEW World Tag Team Champion Darby Allin, was seen with AEW President Tony Khan at a Fulham FC soccer game. Unfortunately for the AEW trio, Fulham lost 2-1 to Aston Villa. 

Orange Cassidy in AEW

Cassidy is in his record-setting second reign as the AEW International Champion. His first reign with the title is the longest in the title’s history. Cassidy also holds the record for the most successful title defenses in AEW. Outside of singles competition, Cassidy is part of the Best Friends stable alongside Chuck Taylor, Trent Beretta, and Kris Statlander. Cassidy made his debut for AEW at their inaugural Double or Nothing event in 2019 and would sign with the promotion that same year. 

A former wrestler for Dynasty Wrestling has spoken out against the promotion for using Patrick Clark at one of their recent events. 

Clark, better known to fans as Velveteen Dream, was part of a show earlier this month that marked the former WWE NXT Superstar’s return to wrestling. In 2020, Clark faced allegations of sending inappropriate messages to minors. WWE claimed that their investigation into the matter showed no proof of misconduct, though one of Clark’s accusers would state that WWE never reached out as part of their investigation. After massive fan backlash, Clark was released from WWE in 2021. 

Terra Calaway on Dynasty Wrestling

Given the allegations Clark has faced as well as additional run-ins with the law, Dynasty’s decision to use him at their event has received a mixed response from fans. On Twitter, Dynasty defended using Clark, saying they wanted to give somebody a second chance to live out their dream. 

This message caught the attention of Terra Calaway, a former member of the Dynasty Wrestling roster. In a tweet of her own, Calaway shared her disappointment and disgust at using Clark. Calaway, a victim of sexual assault, said that using Clark made it clear that victims are not safe at Dynasty Wrestling. 

As a former member of your roster and a sexual assault victim, I am so beyond disappointed and disgusted.

Thank you for showing other victims they are not safe in your locker room or your crowd. https://t.co/p9HoWbKXVg

— ??? ??? (@TerraCalaway) February 18, 2024

Patrick Clark Outside of the Ring

Clark recently emerged in Culpeper and spoke at a County Board of Supervisors meeting. The former WWE NXT Superstar urged the board to prioritize the collective desires of the county’s residents and suggested potential drawbacks of solar power. In a recent video, Clark apologized to WWE and Triple H for causing them problems but stopped short of admitting to any of the allegations against him. 

WXW, the wrestling promotion run by WWE Hall of Famer Afa, will host its very last show in less than two months, it has been confirmed. 

In a statement from the WXW Wrestling account on Facebook, it was said that Afa’s health issues have led to this sad but ultimately necessary decision: 

Good morning, WXW Universe. Our wrestlers, staff, family, and fans are all heartbroken and reeling from the announcement last night from our beloved founder and Pops, Afa the Wild Samoan, that Saturday April 13th will be the last #WXWWrestling show.

“Instead of X-Treme War, that event will be called The Grand Finale. After 27 years, WXW will be opening our doors one last time. This news was not easy to hear last night.

“Due to Afa’s serious heart condition, his mild-moderate vascular dementia with Alzheimer’s, and other health complications, he felt that April would be the perfect time to take our final bows and close an amazing 27- year chapter. Being that he is the heart and soul of WXW, his family tearfully agreed, and his wrestlers, though very sad, support his decision.

“We’ll see you one more time in person, Saturday, April 13th for the Grand Finale super-show. There will be more matches, an earlier start time, and some big names from WXW’s incredible 27-year legacy. We love you all, thank you for all your support throughout these many years.”

In a separate statement, WXW’s COO and ‘Central Nervous System Vale Anoa’i added: 

“I handled it the best I could last night, but I’m an absolute sobbing mess this morning. WXW has been the center of my universe for 27 years, I was 11 years old when we started WXW after closing down its predecessor, Trans-World Wrestling Federation. 

“Now, on the verge of 39, I look back in wonder and astonishment at how much of an impact this company, this wrestling life, has made. How many people from all over the world were brought together for this one purpose? How many thousands of wrestlers, referees, managers, camera operators, ring announcers, music people, ring crew, students, editors, photographers, ticket takers, poster/flyer designers, commercial makers, food concession workers, bell ringers, etc. have been part of us through the decades. How many fans from near and far followed and supported WXW since the beginning. Most significantly, how many people learned something from my father?

“How some of the very biggest stars in wrestling history have been part of us. It’s an incredibly emotional time for me, my family, and all of WXW. So all I can say is thank you, I love you, and hopefully as many of us as possible will be together on April 13th to honor this astonishing legacy.”

At this time, no matches have been announced for The Grand Finale. 

GUNTHER is aware that his dream match with Brock Lesnar is unlikely but he’s not ready to give up hope just yet.

The prospect of the Ring General Vs. The Beast has been of great interest to the WWE Universe for some time. In late 2022, it was reported that GUNTHER Vs. Lesnar was in the works for WrestleMania 39. That didn’t happen as Lesnar faced Omos in LA while the Intercontinental Champion retained against Drew McIntyre and Sheamus.

GUNTHER On Brock Lesnar Match

Recently, Brock Lesnar was pulled from all WWE plans due to his reported ties to Janel Grant’s lawsuit against Vince McMahon. While Lesnar isn’t mentioned by name, Miss Grant alleges that McMahon trafficked her to a former UFC Heavyweight Champion believed to be the Beast. 

WWE had plans for Lesnar Vs. GUNTHER at WrestleMania 40 before plans changed. Speaking with GV Wire, the Imperium leader addressed the potential Lesnar match given the current circumstances. 

“I always was vocal about my dream match in the past, but that fell through now. I don’t know if we’ll see Brock again if that’s ever going to happen. But I’m wide open when it comes to that as of now.”

What’s Next? 

Lesnar had been scheduled to face Dominik Mysterio at WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth but that is no longer the case. Lesnar’s name is similarly not being brought up regarding plans for WrestleMania 40.

The future looks far brighter for GUNTHER. The Austrian is mere days away from breaking the record for the most collective days as Intercontinental Champion. GUNTHER broke the record for the longest individual title reign in September of last year.

El Hijo del Vikingo’s immediate in-ring future is currently uncertain after the wrestler suffered what is feared to be a serious injury at a recent event. 

On Twitter, Mas Lucha informed fans that Vikingo’s match at the López Mateos Arena had to be called off due to an injury to his right knee. Vikingo was assessed at the arena and there has been talk that he may have damaged a ligament. Mas Lucha also shared photos of Vikingo being tended to at the event. 

“El Hijo del Vikingo could not finish the fight in the López Mateos Arena. He injured his right knee after a movement.

“After the first assessment in the arena, there is talk that it may be a ligament rupture.”

El Hijo del Vikingo no pudo terminar la lucha en la Arena López Mateos. Se lesionó la rodilla derecha después de un movimiento.

Tras la primera valoración en la arena, se habla de que puede ser una ruptura de ligamentos. pic.twitter.com/XBOShTRy9N

— Más Lucha (@mas_lucha) February 18, 2024

El Hijo del Vikingo’s Injuries

This is the latest setback for Vikingo, who suffered a significant injury in late 2023. Vikingo suffered a hip injury at an ROH event when a dive went wrong and was seen using a wheelchair after the match. That incident happened just one month after Vikingo collapsed backstage at AAA TripleMania XXXI: Mexico City. On social media, a video backstage made its way around, showing the Vikingo down backstage and being stretchered away.

More on El Hijo del Vikingo

El Hijo del Vikingo is the current AAA Mega Champion in his first reign. He captured the title at Triplemanía Regia II in December 2021 in a five-way to win the vacant title. At over 800 days, Vikingo’s reign is the longest in the history of the title. He has the second most amount of collective days as champion, only behind El Texano Jr.’s 1,096 days across two reigns. Vikingo also holds the record for the most title defenses at 23. 

Reality of Wrestling, the promotion run by Booker T & Sharmell Huffman, are in search for their next break-out star with their ‘Search for the Ultimate Athlete.’

In a statement, Booker T shared the following information about their search: 

Embark on a Journey of Grit and Glory with “ROW Games: The Search for the Ultimate Athlete”

Reality of Wrestling (ROW), co-founded by WWE Hall of Famers Booker T and Sharmell Huffman, is excited to announce the launch of a groundbreaking competition series, “ROW Games: The Search for the Ultimate Athlete.” Hosted by the enigmatic Marty “The Boogeyman” Wright, this intense series will pit 20 of the country’s most promising athletes — 10 men and 10 women — against each other in a series of grueling physical challenges.

Over the span of six episodes, these competitors will test their limits, showcasing their strength, agility, and determination, all for the chance to be crowned the Ultimate Athlete and claim a grand prize of $5,000.00. The twist? Stars from Reality of Wrestling will not only serve as officials but also participate in the challenges, blurring the lines between competitors and the seasoned pros.

“ROW Games is not just another athletic competition; it’s the heart of what wrestling embodies — the blend of physical prowess, mental toughness, and sheer will to succeed,” says Booker T. “These athletes are about to face a challenge like no other, and only the best will make it to the end.”

Sharmell Huffman adds, “We’re looking for those who have the spark, the charisma, and the story that will inspire. It’s more than a competition; it’s about finding that star quality that shines even when the going gets tough.”

The Reality of Wrestling Games will be held at the Texas Entertainment Xperience (TEX), the largest indoor entertainment and gaming complex in the state of Texas located at 10000 Emmett F Lowry Expressway in Texas City, TX 77591. This top-tier venue is set to provide a spectacular backdrop for the physical prowess on display, ensuring an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.

Auditions are set to take place at the Texas City World Gym, with production slated to start on April 20th, 2024. The ROW Games will be accessible to its nearly 750,000 subscribers on the Reality of Wrestling YouTube Channel, bringing fans closer to the sweat, tears, and triumphs of these aspiring athletes. Check realityofwrestling.com

Searching For a Wrestler

It’s fitting that Marty Wright will have a role in the search for the ultimate athlete. Wright appeared on 2004’s edition of WWE Tough Enough but was ejected early on after he was found lying about his age to make the show’s limit. 

TNA Wrestling has also had its share of competitions to find new talent. In addition to TNA Gut Check, the promotion also had two seasons of TNA British Boot Camp. The first season resulted in Rockstar Spud earning a contract with TNA, while Mark Andrews would secure a contract after winning season 2. Notable names from British Bootcamp include Kris Travis, Grado, Noam Dar, Alba Fyre, Nikki Cross, and Piper Niven. 

UFC 298 saw some of the best fighters in the company step into the Octagon and also saw some notable names in the crowd for the night. 

WWE SmackDown Superstars Bianca Belair and Montez Ford were acknowledged in the crowd during the event at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. The real-life couple wore matching outfits for the evening. 

Bianca Belair y Montez Ford en UFC 298. #HFC #UFC298 #MMA #WWE pic.twitter.com/gWGZgmirZc

— Lucha Libre Online (@luchalibreonlin) February 18, 2024

WWE’s power couple weren’t the only names from the world of Wrestling at the event. CM Punk was also referenced in the crowd. The Best in the World wore a Bret Hart hoodie for the show and was described by UFC’s name banner as a “Retired UFC Welterweight.”

"The Best In The World" CM Punk en UFC 298. #UFC #UFC298 #MMA #WWE pic.twitter.com/Vu5chtnxal

— Lucha Libre Online (@luchalibreonlin) February 18, 2024

WWE & UFC

It shouldn’t be a huge surprise to see WWE Superstars at the UFC premier event. In September of last year, the two companies were merged with the launch of TKO Group Holdings. Since then, the two companies have been closely linked, with UFC President Dana White giving away tickets for WrestleMania 40. In November of last year, WWE U.S. Champion Logan Paul attended UFC 295 alongside his fiancee Nina Agdal. The Maverick sat alongside former two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic for the event. 

What’s Next? 

Earlier this week, WWE & UFC both signed deals with the Honda Center that will keep both companies appearing in the venue through 2028. Next week’s episode of Raw will also take place at the Honda Center, with fans able to purchase combo tickets for the UFC and WWE shows. 

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair could have had a fruitful career in politics had his prior controversies not intervened, according to the Nature Boy himself. 

In wrestling, Flair had a long, lustrious career with 16 World Championship wins to his name, though the actual amount of World title wins is reportedly much higher. Speaking to FOX News recently, Flair was asked what he’d look for in a leader of the United States. 

“I think we need someone who shows strength. We need somebody to say, ‘Hey, we are the United States. Kiss my ass!'”

Flair was then asked if he’d considered running for office himself. While the Nature Boy has never set his sights on the White House, he did recall a proposed run for Governor in 2001. 

“No [I have not thought about running for President] but I should have run for Governor in 2001. But, they said I had too many skeletons in my closet. Imagine that! I’d make Trump look like a baby.”

Flair didn’t go into what skeletons caused him to reconsider. During a 2020 interview, Jesse Ventura recalled encouraging Flair to reconsider after Ric disclosed 143 speeding tickets. 

Ric Flair And Politics

Flair has long supported Republicans in North Carolina politics. In 2008, Flair declared his support for the Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. In 2016, Flair endorsed Ted Cruz’s campaign.

 In December 2021, Flair was a guest at a fundraiser for former President Trump. This appearance came shortly after allegations of sexual misconduct on the infamous Plane Ride from Hell were addressed during an episode of Dark Side of the Ring. While Flair denied the allegations, WWE would temporarily remove Ric’s signature Woo! from their intro video. 

Pro Wrestling and NFL legend Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael has been diagnosed with MRSA in the latest of several health battles. 

On Twitter, Jarrett Payton, son of NFL icon Walter Payton and a former NFL star himself, gave an update on Mongo, who has been battling several issues. 

Update on Steve McMichael:

Steve is currently getting a blood transfusion and has MRSA. We are asking for your prayers to get Steve through this difficult time. Steve, his family and close friends believe in the power of prayer. Thank you.

-The McMichael Family#Bears

— Jarrett Payton (@paytonsun) February 17, 2024

Health Issues

In April 2021, McMichael was diagnosed with ALS, six months after former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle and broadcaster Tunch Ilkin, announced his own ALS diagnosis. The disease, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, results in the progress loss of neurons that control voluntary muscles. Earlier this week, McMichael was rushed to the emergency room with suspected pneumonia. 

Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael

Mongo would first be introduced into wrestling in the build to WrestleMania 11, as he would be one of the NFL entourage backing Lawrence Taylor for his main event with Bam Bam Bigelow. That same year, he signed with WCW as a commentator, and earned the Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s worst TV announcer award of 1996. Shortly after, he transitioned into an in-ring role the following year and captured the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship in 1997. 

McMichael is also known for his NFL career, where he played for 15 seasons as a defensive tackle. He would be part of the Super Bowl XX-winning Chicago Bears and would also play for the New England Patriots and for the Green Bay Packers before his career ended in 1994. Earlier this month, it was announced that McMichael will take his much-deserved spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame later this year. 

It’s been years since Ronda Rousey competed in a UFC cage, but WWE’s Ivy Nile is eager to step into the Octagon with the former Women’s Champion.

Rousey last competed for WWE at SummerSlam 2023, where she lost the first-ever MMA Rules match to Shayna Baszler. After Rousey informed WWE of her plans to finish up her career at SummerSlam, WWE fast-tracked her feud with Baszler. Rousey reportedly wanted to feud with her fellow MMA horsewoman to give her friend a singles spotlight.

Ronda Rousey Vs. Ivy Nile 

Before her impressive WWE career, Rousey dominated in the world of UFC and was arguably the first female fighter to become a name in the mainstream. While Rousey hasn’t fought in close to a decade, Ivy Nile is interested in throwing down. Speaking with Fightful, Nile was asked who she’d like to face in MMA. 

“Is Meisha Tate still in the UFC? I think the world of her. I love her. I’m a huge fan of Ronda Rousey too. I think I would do pretty well going toe-to-toe, I think we’re better off as allies.”

More on Ivy Nile 

The first female champion of NBC’s “Titan Games,” Ivy Nile has a background in CrossFit, Jiu Jitsu, and weightlifting. In 2021, she joined the Diamond Mine in WWE NXT, which would put her in a team with Brutus and Julius Creed. Last year, the three were called up to the main roster and signed with Monday Night Raw.

Have we seen the last of Ronda Rousey in UFC…

WWE SmackDown Superstar Shotzi has shared her heartbreak after her recent injury robbed her of a potential spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match. 

During a taping for next week’s episode of WWE NXT, Shotzi returned to the gold brand to challenge Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria. Unfortunately, Shotzi suffered a serious leg injury that resulted in the match being called off. WWE NXT officials were left “in a panic” over Shotzi’s injury as there was a scramble to fill the time left by her match ending early. 

Shotzi is Devastated

This injury meant that Shotzi could not compete at this week’s SmackDown, where she was set to compete in an Elimination Chamber qualifying match. Had Shotzi won this qualifier and won inside the Chamber, she would have competed for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania 40. 

Taking to Twitter, Shotzi expressed her disappointment over being robbed of such a golden opportunity. 

I don’t have much to say right now other than I am devastated. It’s heartbreaking to be missing my Elimination Chamber opportunity tonight. But I just wanted to wish all the women competing good luck. I’ll open up more about how I’m feeling and my injury later. @WWE

— Shotzi (@ShotziWWE) February 17, 2024

The Women’s Elimination Chamber Match

With Shotzi out of the picture, this week’s SmackDown saw Naomi and Tiffany Stratton qualify for the match with victories over Alba Fyre and Zelina Vega respectively. Naomi and Stratton now join Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, and Liv Morgan. A battle royal will determine the final entrant in the match. 

One name fans shouldn’t expect to see advance is Jade Cargill. While a graphic accidentally spoiling the participants seemingly confirmed the former AEW TBS Champion’s involvement, plans have seemingly changed. Cargill has reportedly been pulled from the match and is not expected at Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

Cargill appeared on this week’s SmackDown in a backstage segment that included Stratton and Belair. 

Brogan Finlay’s WWE in-ring debut saw him share the ring with another multi-generational Superstar this week. 

Finlaym the brother of New Japan’s David Finlay, signed with WWE in December of last year. He has been competing since 2021 and has worked for GCW, New Japan, Wrestling Revolver, Black Label Pro, and Blitzkrieg! Pro to name just a few companies.

At last night’s WWE NXT event in Tampa, Florida, Finlay added WWE to the list of promotions he has worked for. In his in-ring debut, he faced Charlie Dempsey. Unfortunately for Finlay, it was the No Quarter Catch Crew member who got the win. 

Brogan Finlay made his debut at tonight’s NXT live event against Charlie Dempsey.#NXTTampa pic.twitter.com/fklCWLaQxt

— kelsey (@itsmekelsey_x) February 17, 2024

Family History

It’s fitting that Finlay faced Dempsey in his WWE NXT debut, as the pair’s fathers also had some wars in the ring. Fit Finlay and William Regal feuded in WCW, with Finlay making his debut in the promotion with an attack on the Blackpool brawler. Years later, the pair would be forced to face off for Finlay’s U.S. title at Great American Bash 2006, after Bobby Lashley, Finlay’s original opponent, failed his medical test. Finlay bested Regal at the WWE pay-per-view to retain. 

On Twitter, Finlay made reference to the fact that their fathers fought in the past.

Finishing what our dads started… https://t.co/CXEcuyCb55

— URIAH CONNORS (@WWE_URIAH) February 17, 2024

WWE NXT: Tampa Results

Here are the results for the February 16, 2024, WWE NXT live event, courtesy of Wrestling Bodyslam:

• Fallon Henley and Wren Sinclair defeated Kiana James and Izzy Dame

• Charlie Dempsey defeated Brogan Finlay

• Josh Briggs defeated Jonah Niesenbaum

• Karmen Petrovic defeated Jazmyn Nyx

• Chase U (Thea Hail, Riley Osborne, & Duke Hudson) defeat OTM (Jaida Parker, Scrypts, & Bronco Nima)

• Hank Walker and Tank Ledger defeated Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe

• Luca Crusifino defeated Je’Von Evans

• Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson defeated Lainey Reid and Carlee Bright

• Andre Chase defeated Oro Mensah and Brooks Jensen in a Triple-Threat match to earn a future North American Title opportunity

• NXT Women’s Championship: Lyra Valkyria (c) defeated Blair Davenport

Fans can expect a night of excitement during next week’s SmackDown as the show has been taped in advance. 

Next week’s show, like this week’s episode, will take place in Salt Lake City, Utah. The show was taped following last night’s live episode, as WWE will be heading to Australia next week for Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth

WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth will take place from Optus Stadium on February 24. The show will mark WWE’s first Premium Live Event down under since the 2018 Super Showdown event. four matches have been confirmed for the show, including two Elimination Chamber matches with WrestleMania-sized implications. 

Australia’s own Grayson Waller will host his talk show with Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins as his guests. The American Nightmare and the World Heavyweight Champion seemingly formed a pact on this week’s Raw to counter the impact of the Bloodline. 

WWE SmackDown – February 23

Here are the results of next week’s episode of WWE SmackDown:

• Tiffany Stratton clinched victory over Liv Morgan using a small package

• A vignette featuring Ashante Thee Adonis & Cedric is shown.

• A segment featuring The Bloodline is shown.

• Bron Breakker defeated Dante Chen.

• Pete Dunne & Tyler Bate defeated The Judgment Day (Dominik Mysterio & JD McDonagh)

• Another Bloodline backstage segment

• The Authors of Pain secured a victory against the Street Profits.

• An Elimination Chamber package is shown on the screen.

• The match between Drew McIntyre and LA Knight ended in a disqualification. After the match, the Men’s Elimination Chamber participants brawled with Randy Orton standing tall at the end

This week’s episode of WWE SmackDown went off the air with a huge addition to the Bloodline… 

TNA Wrestling’s Tommy Dreamer has refuted the claim that he is now running TNA’s creative department following the dismissal of Scott D’Amore. 

D’Amore was released as TNA President last week and has been replaced by Anthem Entertainment’s President Anthony Cicione. Anthem, TNA’s parent company, reportedly wanted to have a closer connection to the promotion, hence the appointment of Cicione. 

Scott D’Amore attempted to purchase TNA Wrestling and made a serious offer to Anthem. D’Amore’s offer was made as he was aware Anthem had plans to get rid of him. D’Amore’s offer was not in response to the success of last month’s TNA Hard to Kill show. 

Tommy Dreamer Refutes Creative Claim

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it is reported that Tommy Dreamer is running TNA’s creative now that D’Amore has gone. This led to Dreamer’s name trending on social media. During Busted Open Radio, the former TNA Digital Media Champion refuted the claim with plenty of sarcasm. 

“Oof. I’m so glad people know things about my life that I don’t know… Thanks for the promotion. I hope I get a raise with this fictitious position. Because if I was head of creative, you know Moose is losing the [TNA World] title to me at whatever the next show is.”

After some laughs, Dreamer made clear that he had not been promoted to Head of Creative. 

“It’s the same deal as always before. It really and truly is. Nothing has changed within the creative process. Thank you very much.”

The TNA locker room isn’t going to let D’Amore go without a fight… 

H/T – Wrestle Zone

There has been frustration growing within AEW as the roster can’t help but notice the decreasing crowd sizes since the start of 2024, it has been claimed. 

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that there’s frustration from “a lot of circles” as talent comes to shows and sees small crowd sizes. The report adds the feeling within AEW is that the popularity in the product is declining overall. 

AEW President Tony Khan consistently paints a positive picture about the company’s standing. Khan often looks points to increased revenues or positive ratings as a sign of the company’s good fortune. 

The Hard-Cam

AEW is known to have fans moved to the side of arenas facing the hard-cam, giving the illusion that a venue is jam-packed. While this tactic works when it comes to TV, images often emerge of AEW events with throngs of empty seats, despite what things look like on TV. 

Damn. Feels like it's getting worse every week. pic.twitter.com/Gjmm5L6iyQ

— Julian Weeks (@JulianWks) October 15, 2023

It should be noted that this tactic isn’t exclusive to All Elite Wrestling. Other promotions have made sure that the majority of fans appear on the hard-cam to give the best look to fans watching worldwide. Part of the issue is that AEW continues to book venues far bigger than their average crowd size. 

What’s Next? 

AEW should see a boost in crowd size at several upcoming events, including the AEW Revolution 2024 show next month. March will also see AEW’s Big Business show at which Mercedes Mone is expected to make her debut. This August, AEW will return to London for its second All In event. 

The career of Nikkita Lyons has faced yet another setback after the WWE NXT Superstar suffered an injury not long after her recent return to action. 

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirmed that Lyons is injured once more but did not specify what issue the Lioness is facing. This comes as another blow to Lyons, who returned to the ring in December of last year. Lyons had been written off of TV with an attack in the highly dangerous NXT parking lot. It was later revealed that Blair Davenport was the attacker.

Nikkita Lyons

After graduating high school in 2017, Faith Jeffries began training under Selina Majors and would debut for Women of Wrestling as ‘Faith the Lioness.’ In 2021, she attended a WWE tryout and would sign with the company that summer. 

Jeffries, now Nikkita Lyons, made her debut on the New Year’s Eve edition of 205 Live in a loss to Amari Miller. Her NXT debut would come in February 2022 and saw her beat Kayla Inlay (now Kiana James.) 

While she has yet to capture gold in WWE, Lyons has worked with several top names. In June 2022, Lyons earned a DQ win over then NXT Women’s Champion Mandy Rose. That same year, she and Zoey Stark would unsuccessfully challenge for the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships. 

A Problem with Training? 

Lyons’ injury will once again raise questions as to the training that takes place at the WWE Performance Center. In April 2023, it was reported that people in WWE had blamed a series of injuries over the strength training at the center. In addition to Lyons, Sol Ruca and Arianna Grace have also recently been taken out due to injuries. Ruca only recently returned to action. 

Kevin Patrick’s days with WWE may be over, but the Irish broadcaster has landed on his feet in a much different sport. 

Patrick was released from WWE last month, mere days after he was pulled from SmackDown’s commentary team. The belief backstage that his tenure on the blue brand just wasn’t working. He has since been replaced by Michael Cole on SmackDown, who Patrick had replaced just a few weeks prior to his exit. 

Patrick was said to be well-liked by those in the company. In addition to his commentary duties, he was the co-host of the After the Bell podcast with Corey Graves. 

Kevin Patrick’s New Role

While Patrick is out of WWE, he will remain a part of sports broadcasting. Major League Soccer has announced that Patrick, under real name Kevin Egan, will be part of the panel for the second season of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. MLS Season Pass features expansive coverage including every match of the regular season, Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, the MLS All-Star Game, and Leagues Cup matches. 

Egan will be joined by returning accomplished studio talent and renowned professional soccer players Sacha Kljestan, Kaylyn Kyle, and Bradley Wright-Phillips. The Irish broadcaster previously did commentary for Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United home games on Apple TV+.

More on Kevin Patrick

Patrick studied journalism at Ireland’s Griffith College Dublin, and worked as part of the RTÉ Sport team covering the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. He left Ireland for the United States in 2009.

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

AJ Styles’ days with TNA Wrestling may be a distant memory, but the Phenomenal One was referenced on this week’s episode of iMPACT!

Styles joined TNA when the company launched in 2002 and was one of the company’s most accomplished stars before his exit in 2014. After leaving, Styles would join New Japan Pro Wrestling before making his WWE debut as part of the 2016 Royal Rumble match. 

AJ Styles Referenced in TNA Wrestling

At TNA Hard to Kill, Joe Hendry and AJ Francis began their feud with both men showcasing their musical talent. Hendry’s parody songs of wrestlers have proven to be immensely popular and this week’s TNA iMPACT! proved to be no different. 

During Hendry’s entrance for his match, Francis appeared on the titantron and mocked the Scottish wrestler. Francis made it clear he doesn’t believe in Joe and mocked Hendry for getting jumped at Hard to Kill. 

.@AJFrancis410 interrupts @joehendry entrance with a special song. #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/SyVMLx8gXi

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 16, 2024

Not to be outdone, Hendry revealed his song for Francis later in the show. Referring to another AJ, Hendry used the TNA theme song of Styles to poke fun at Francis. Referencing Francis’ infamous, though life-saving botched dive in WWE, Hendry said that the former Top Dolla nullifies TNA Wrestling’s insurance whenever he goes sailing over the top rope. 

.@joehendry is ready to fly with a brand new rendition of "I Am" just for @AJFrancis410. #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/aagkO663JF

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 16, 2024

Hendry didn’t stop there, as the song claimed that Francis was “banned from diving.” The Scottish wrestler shared footage of Francis partying with some attractive women who may be fine spending time on his boat “but they all laugh when you hit the top rope.”

Fans will have plenty to look forward to at the upcoming TNA No Surrender event…