WWE will posthumously induct Vader into the 2022 WWE Hall of Fame.

Bleacher Report first reported that WWE would add Vader to the Hall of Fame class this year. The WWE Hall of Fame will take place on Apr. 1 at the American Airlines Arena in Dallas, Texas. WWE confirmed the news in a press release on their website.

“As first reported by Bleacher Report, Vader will be posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022. The Mastodon will be enshrined in the hallowed hall during the 2022 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony as part of WrestleMania Week,” said WWE.

WWE Finally Inducts Vader to the Hall of Fame

For several years, wrestling legends and fans wanted WWE to induct Vader into the WWE Hall of Fame. After Vader passed away at 63 years old due to heart failure on Jun. 18, 2018, Mick Foley advocated that the company should induct “The Mastodon.” He called Vader’s absence into the Hall of Fame “the most glaring and obvious omission from the WWE Hall of Fame.”

Sean Waltman also expressed disappointment in the company’s hesitance to honor Vader. In an interview with The Tomorrow Show with Keven Undergaro, Waltman shared that Vader wanted WWE to induct him before he passed away.

“It was really important to him to be put in the Hall of Fame, and it really sucks. He deserved it too. Sometimes when you push too hard, and you’re out there, and you’re begging for it too much, it works against you. And that sucks in that case,” said Waltman(h/t Jon Feuntes).

It’s unclear if Vader’s family is disappointed in the WWE’s hesitance to induct Vader before his passing. However, this year “The Mastodon” will finally get his recognition by the company. He will also posthumously be honored alongside The Undertaker, his rival during his WWE career.

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon has shared his thoughts on the company’s hiring decision.

WWE has faced backlash for how they released talent last year. The company released over 80 talent in 2021, most of the reasons due to budget cuts. Meanwhile, WWE also praised themselves for their financial success last year.

McMahon explained his decision to release talent in an interview with Pat McAfee on Mar. 3.

“I’m always concerned about what’s best for the audience, always. What does the audience want, and if you have dead weight around you or if you had a situation by someone not cutting it and you have an opportunity for someone to come in, it’s like, okay, that’s probably the best thing,” said McMahon.

Vince McMahon on Listening to the Audience

Sometimes in professional wrestling, a talent may do something that could burn bridges to work with a company. An example could be Hulk Hogan working for WCW. However, McMahon believes that as long as the fans want valuable talent, WWE will always consider hiring a wrestler. He also tied in that while he releases talent, he also looks to add new people to the WWE roster.

“… Hogan and a lot of those guys left me at one time, why I brought them back. It’s like, ‘I’ll never bring that son of a b*itch back as long as I live.’ When you say stuff like that, you’re really hurting yourself because you’re not thinking about your audience. You’re not thinking about your product, and it’s not about you and your ego,” said McMahon.

He continued, “It’s like, ‘Yeah, okay, maybe I really felt that way. Maybe I didn’t, but nonetheless, it doesn’t matter. What’s the best thing for business? If the audience wants Hulk Hogan back, you bring him back if he has value that way.”

Vince McMahon on Proritizing the Stockholders

McMahon also believes that the WWE going public made him a better businessman. While the WWE releases seem unjust, McMahon expressed that he lets people go due to the business and isn’t personal.

“Once I took the company public, it helped me become a better businessman because prior to that, I was running the business with my head, but mostly with my heart as well, said McMahon. He continued, “These decisions are so damn tough when you do that, because of who it is, he has kids or this that and the other or someone has cancer in the family, and all that computes in your head, but once you’re a public company now you owe stockholders. It is the business then, so it helps me make easier and better business decisions.”

McMahon wants fans to know that he does have a heart. While WWE releases seemed callous, the WWE Chairman prioritizes his business.

Cody Rhodes’ future in professional wrestling is looking increasingly uncertain.

After his shocking departure from All Elite Wrestling, fans have speculated if Cody Rhodes would return to WWE. Sport’s Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso reported on Feb. 16 that Cody would be signing with his former employers.

Not So Fast

However, a new report suggests Cody to WWE is far from a sure thing. On Friday, Cassidy Haynes of BodySlam.net dropped the bombshell that talks between Rhodes and the WWE have “fizzled out.”

Haynes also shares that a source claims that the former Executive Vice President of AEW may actually return to the company.

“… I was told that discussions had been ongoing between Cody and WWE, but I was told, ‘those conversations have since fizzled out.’ One source indicated that there is hope that Cody can be brought back into the AEW fold. The idea was floated to me that there might be a possibility again, with a new role involving the ROH acquisition.”

On Saturday, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer corroborated the news from Cassidy Haynes. Meltzer tweeted there has been a “definite change” in the expectation that Cody returning to WWE was inevitable.

Days after word leaked that WWE creative is working on plans for Cody Rhodes, Meltzer wrote on the members-only F4W message board, “Creative was told last night [Friday] a change in Cody status from sure thing to uncertain.”

• AEW Has New Cody Rhodes Action Figures in the Works

Cody Rhodes on his time with AEW

Cody Rhodes also posted and deleted an Instagram post on Instagram on Feb. 19 that he retired from pro wrestling.

Earlier this week, Cody Rhodes spoke very fondly about his time with All Elite Wrestling. “I’ll let you in on a little secret, wrestling fans are the face of it all – I was lucky to carry the baton for several years, and I am incredibly proud of the changes we made for the industry and livelihood of wrestlers the world over. A great time, stuff for the history books.”

Tony Khan on Cody Rhodes’ Future

While fans wonder what is next for Rhodes, Khan seems to have an idea. The AEW President shared his thoughts on Busted Open on Sirus XM that the free agent already has something planned.

“It’s very sad and not something any of us wanted to happen, I think, but I believe that Cody’s got something else in the works, I’m not sure about that, but we’ll see,” said Khan. “I’m sure they’re going to have great opportunities in wrestling and in life. You never know what’s going to happen in the future. I wish them the best and am very appreciative of everything they did here.”

Friday Night Smackdown Commentator Pat McAfee will be making his main roster in-ring debut at Wrestlemania.

Since working on the main roster, McAfee has stayed behind the commenter desk working alongside Michael Cole. However, WWE initially brought McAfee to compete as a wrestler. The former Indianapolis Colts Punter made his in-ring debut in NXT against Adam Cole at NXT Takeover 30 on Aug. 22, 2020.

Despite his inexperience in the ring, McAfee impressed his peers with his athleticism and wrestling ability. He also competed in an NXT Wargames match on Dec. 6, 2020. Once called to the main roster, fans expected McAfee to wrestle or manager, but WWE made him Smackdown’s commentator. After accepting the commentator role, it seemed that McAfee’s wrestling career had ended.

On The Pat McAfee Show, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon praised McAfee’s work and allowed him to have a match at Wrestlemania 38.

“…I know you love what we do, and you are a part of the time big time. People in the organization really enjoy you, and fans all over the world really enjoy you being you,” said McMahon. He continued, “…With that, I’d like to offer you an opportunity to actually wrestle at Wrestlemania.” McMahon also cautioned McAfee that it would be different from his time playing for the NFL and would find a worthy opponent.

Will Austin Theory Be Pat McAfee Opponent?

During the Pat McAfee Show broadcast, Austin Theory’s name came up, and McAfee’s co-host AJ Hawk thought Theory might appear. Theory is also the companion of McMahon and teased potentially confronting the Smackdown Commentator at Monday Night Raw on Feb. 28. Although he didn’t show up on the show, WWE could decide to make McAfee vs. Theory at Wrestlemania 38.

It’s unclear whether WWE decided that Theory will be McAfee’s opponent. McAfee also joked that he must get in shape to make his Wrestlemania debut. Regardless, the former Indianapolis Colts Punter will look to have a Wrestlemania moment next month.

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon will help induct “The Deadman” The Undertaker into the WWE Hall of Fame.

The WWE announced on Feb. 18 that The Undertaker would be inducted into their 2022 Hall of Fame Class. So far, he is the only member revealed to be going into this year’s Hall of Fame. After the announcement from WWE, wrestling fans have wondered who will help induct “The Deadman.” On The Pat McAfee Show on Mar. 3, McMahon shared that he will help induct The Undertaker.

Vince McMahon on Why He’s Inducting The Undertaker

The WWE Chairman hasn’t inducted a wrestler since Stone Cold Steve Austin on Apr. 4, 2009. When explaining why he chose to introduce The Undertaker, McMahon gave an emotional response and why it will be the most challenging thing McMahon has ever done.

“This will be one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done in my life. He explained I like the guy. I love the guy. We’ve known each other for so many years. We’ve you been through all kinds of situations, some that glad didn’t make the newspapers and so forth. When you live on the road like that, you know you have your family at home. When you live on the road, man, you have to have a family on the road, and you have to have people you can count on, you rely on, that are loyal and trustworthy and not have to look over your shoulder. He’s that kind of guy. He’s an extraordinary human being.” He also shared that it will be difficult because he knows The Undertaker personally.

It’s unclear if The Undertaker will be the only inductee for this year’s Hall of Fame. However, McMahon personally inducting “The Deadman” will make for an emotional moment.

The Undertaker Reacts

The Undertaker has commented on the news that Vince McMahon will induct him into the WWE Hall of Fame. The Dead Man said McMahon is the perfect person to bestow the honor upon him.

Drew McIntyre will get a chance at revenge against Happy Corbin next month at WrestleMania 38.

The “Scottish Warrior” has feuded with Corbin since Day 1 on Jan. 1. Corbin and Madcap Moss attacked The “Scottish Warrior” backstage. The attack resulted in the storyline for McIntyre to take time off from WWE TV. The company’s reason for briefly sidelining the former WWE Champion was to deal with a neck injury.

McIntyre returned in the Men’s Royal Rumble match on Jan. 30 to eliminate Corbin and Moss. He also defeated Moss at Elimination Chamber on Feb. 19 to continue his feud with the Corbin. On Mar. 3, WWE officially announced that McIntyre would face Corbin at Wrestlemania 38 Saturday on Apr. 2.

Drew McIntyre Recovering From Neck Issue

WWE fans were uncertain if McIntyre would return to wrestle in time for Wrestlemania 38. PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that he had neck issues for several weeks and needed testing. Although he did not compete for 29 days, doctors were surprised that McIntyre recovered quickly.

In an interview with the Sports Guy Talk Wrestling Podcast, the “Scottish Warrior” shared how he rehabbed his neck.

“They dropped a lighting rig on my head, and I came back three and a half weeks later. I think everybody, including the doctor, was surprised at how soon I was able to come back. They told me, ‘You’re not making the Rumble. WrestleMania is possible, but let’s say it’s unlikely right now,” said McIntyre(h/t Fernando Quiles Jr). He continued, “Okay, Doc, no problem. I went straight to rehab, and I’ve always had the John Cena approach to rehab with every injury. What’s the most I can do for maximum benefit? ‘Well, you could come twice a day for six days a week, but that would be crazy.'” 

Mcintyre took the doctor’s advice and did his best to return before Wrestlemania 38. “…I did that, rehab-wise, twice a day, six days a week, while also working out, so three times a day, six days a week, take Sunday off. When I saw the doctor a few weeks later, they were like, ‘All right, wow, you’re a cyborg, probably why you were called the Scottish Terminator. I guess you’re ready to go,” said Mcintyre(h/t Fernando Quiles Jr).

The former WWE champion will look to defeat Corbin at Wrestlemania 38. Although with Moss in his corner, Corbin has the advantage.

Heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury says there is a “One Million Percent” chance that he will return to WWE one day.

Fury made his WWE debut on Fox’s first Friday Night Smackdown on Oct. 4, 2019. His appearance led to a brief feud with former WWE talent Braun Strowman, culminating at Crown Jewel on Oct. 31, 2019. The boxing star won his match against Strowman by countout. His last WWE appearance was at Smackdown on Nov. 8, 2019.

Although Fury hasn’t competed in WWE for two years, fans and WWE stars have remained curious if he will return. In an statement from GiveMeSport, he promised that he will return to the company in the future.

WWE Stars Want to Wrestle Fury

The “Gypsy King” has become a dream matchup for several top talents in the WWE. Both Fury and Drew McIntyre have teased wanting to have a match against each other in 2020. In an interview with The Sun, Big E has also expressed intrigue about a possible Wrestlemania match between himself and the WBC Heavyweight Champion.

“Of course, that’s just rumors and speculation, but I think he’s going to find a way to get back into WWE soon. That’s what we do at WrestleMania. It’s about theatrics, entertainment and being larger-than-life. So, if we are going to do it, that would be the place to do it,” said Big E. He continued, “So I am open to a Tyson Fury WrestleMania match. As absurd as it may be to some, it would be a lot of fun.” (h/t SEScoops’s Anutosh Bajpai).

Before Fury can return to WWE, he will defend his WBC and The Ring Heavyweight Championship against Dillian Whyte on Apr. 23. He also teased fighting UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou in MMA. It’s unclear when he wants to return to the WWE, but he believes fans haven’t seen the last of him wrestling.

Samoa Joe enjoys his options as he remains a free agent.

“The Samoan Submission Machine” wants to return to professional wrestling after WWE released him on Jan. 6. During his last tenure with the company, Joe competed in NXT before rebranding into NXT 2.0. He relinquished the NXT Championship, after testing positive for Covid-19.

Since Joe couldn’t compete and was taken off NXT TV, he worked as a trainer at the Performance Center. It’s unclear why the WWE released Joe, but he shared that he was grateful for his time with the company.

Wrestling fans wonder which promotion will be lucky enough to add Samoa Joe to its roster. In an interview with Busted Open on Sirus XM, Samoa Joe commented on the potential of signing with All Elite Wrestling or returning to WWE.

“…I’m open to whatever opportunity. Obviously, at this point, I’m blessed enough that I get to make decisions, and I get to work on some things outside of wrestling. Which is a rarity when you are this far in and committed to the business, said Joe.

He continued, “…I got my team working on stuff, and when they eventually connect, we’ll see if something works out.”

What’s Next for Samoa Joe?

Joe will be under the WWE 90 non-compete clause until Apr. 6. However, he keeps himself busy with projects outside of wrestling and being with his family.

“We’re training. We’re ready. Honestly, I’m not on paper with anybody anywhere. We haven’t signed anything. We’re just kind of exploring our options, and I’m taking little time personally just to be with the family and shore up some things home side, and we’ll see what the coming months hold,” said Joe.

He did share during the interview that he’d like to wrestle against Powerhouse Hobbs and Jon Moxley if Joe were to sign with AEW.

Samoa Joe is also working as a voice actor for the upcoming Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League video game. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League was scheduled to be released this year, but the developers have pushed it back to next year. It’s unclear if he has to do additional voice acting for Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.

AEW or WWE hasn’t publically expressed interest in signing the free agent. Although it doesn’t seem like Joe is rushing to sign with anyone.

Diamond Mine manager Malcolm Bivens has big plans for his faction Diamond mine.

Since the rebranding of NXT, Diamond Mine has become a prominent group on the developmental show. Besides the leader Roderick Strong and Bivens, the other members are rookies. Regardless, WWE has pushed the group in NXT 2.0, and are they having a successful run.

The Creed Brothers won the 2022 Dusty Cup by defeating former NXT Tag Team Champions MSK at NXT Vengeance Day on Feb. 15. The tag team will challenge the NXT Tag Team Champions Imperium’s Fabian Archer and Marcel Barthel. While it’s unclear when the match will occur, it may happen at NXT Stand and Deliver on Apr. 2.

In an interview with The Black Announce Table Podcast, Ms. Sookoo asked Bivens what he expects for the group after The Creed Brothers tournament win. He shared that he expects the match at NXT Stand and Deliver. He also believes Niles will challenge for the NXT Women’s Championship at some point and hopes the faction wins all of the NXT titles.

“I think it’s the NXT championships. I am eyeing Stand and Deliver in Dallas and we also have the pitbull of NXT Ivy Nile and I think she has her eyes set on the NXT Women’s Championship, so If I could have all the gold that’d be great. That be fantastic,” said Bivens.

Will the Creed Brothers Defeat Imperium?

As NXT 2.0 progresses, the brand is slowly replacing it’s veterans with newer talent. The show has also seen veteran NXT talents either move to the main roster, get released from the WWE or choose to leave. After winning the Dusty Cup, the WWE may have The Creed Brothers defeat Imperium to win the NXT Tag Team Championships to become the face of the NXT 2.0 tag team division.

WWE main roster could also use a fresh tag team like Imperium on either the Friday Night Smackdown or Monday Night Raw roster. In addition, Gunther may also be staying in the United States and possibly lead the group on the main roster. However, it’s unclear if WWE has interest in taking Imperium faction from NXT 2.0.

Game Changer Wrestling ended their two show in Los Angeles, California with GCW: The Coldest Winter on Feb. 26.

The main event saw Blake Christian wrestle “Speedball” Mike Bailey. All Elite Wrestling talent Thunder Rosa also competed against Tony Deppen. The event aired live on FITE and is available for on-demand purchase. Fans could also watch GCW: Welcome to Heartbreak, if they buy the bundle package.

Before starting the pay-per-view, Joey Janela did an in-ring promo explaining why he attacked X-Pac at GCW: Welcome to Heartbreak. X-Pac interrupted Janela to challenge him to a match at GCW’s Joey Janela’s Spring Break 6.

Here are quick results from the show:

• Ninja Mack defeated Jack Cartwheel

• Jordan Oliver defeated Dark Sheik

• Thunder Rosa defeated Tony Deppen

• Jimmy Lloyd defeated Alex Zayne in a Do or Die Deathmatch

• Second Gear Bussy defeated Team LA Fight in a 8 person tag team match
• After the match, Mance Warner made his GCW return to reunite with the Second Gear Crew. He and Mathew Justice challenged H8 Club to a GCW Tag Team Championship match at GCW’s Astronaut on Mar. 12 in Atlanta, GA.

• Kevin Blackwood defeated Grim Reefer

• Gringo Loco defeated Mascara Dorada

• Blake Christian defeated “Speedball” Mike Bailey

After the match Christian praised Bailey by calling him one of the best wrestlers in the world and thanked him for the match. The show ends with both wrestlers hugging in the ring.

WWE Hall of Famer X-Pac made his in-ring return at Game Changer Wrestling: Welcome to Heartbreak on Feb. 25 in Los Angeles, California.

The main event saw X-Pac team with All Elite Wrestling talent Joey Janela against The Major Players’ Matt Cardona and Brian Myers. The event aired live on FITE and is available for on-demand purchase. Fans could also get the GCW: The Coldest Winter event on Feb. 26 if they buy the bundle package.

Here are quick results from the show:

• The Briscoes defeated Jacob Fatu and Juicy Finau

• Blake Christian defeated Nick Wayne

• Tony Deppen defeated Kevin Blackwood

• “Speedball” Mike Bailey defeated Ninja Mack

• AJ Gray defeated ACH to retain the GCW Extreme Championship After the match Gray cut a promo challenging GCW Champion Jon Moxley for the title at GCW’s Joey Janela Spring Break 6.

• Dr. Wagner Jr. defeated Homicide

• Second Gear and Friends( Mathew Justice, Gringo Loco, Dark Sheik and Allie Katch) defeated Team Reefer(Grim Reefer, Jimmy Lloyd, Jack Cartwheel and Jordan Oliver)

• Chris Dickinson returned to GCW to cut a in-ring promo to challenge Minoru Suzuki at GCW’s Josh Barnett Bloodsport 8 on March 31st. The Major Players with Chelsea Green interrupted Dickinson before their tag team match. Dickinson challenged Matt Cardona to a match at GCW’s Joey Janela Spring Break 6 and Cardona accepted.

• X-Pac and Joey Janela defeated The Major Players with Chelsea Green

After the match, X-Pac thanked the GCW crowd and teased retirement from wrestling. As X-Pac was about to end his promo, Janela super kicked him and stood over him to close the show.

Former Coach Hideki Suzuki recalls getting into a heated argument with his co-worker in WWE.

WWE hired Suzuki as a performance center coach on Apr 23, 2021. He also worked under the name Hachiman in NXT as a member of Diamond Mine. While he didn’t have a long career in WWE, the former coach had some thoughts about the company’s developmental program.

In an interview with Weekly Pro Wrestling and translated by Connor Writing, Suzuki shared that he disagreed with WWE’s style of coaching talent. When asked if he disobeyed the other coaches, the former coach gave his honest opinion.

“I didn’t disobey them, but I did kick up a fuss and give them attitude. As you might expect, WWE’s a big company, even in NXT alone, there are so many people employed, and things change day-by-day, so a lot of things get decided without any contact with you,” said Suzuki(H/t Connor Writing)

Hideki Suzuki Altercation with NXT Coach

When asked about his style, Suzuki shared that he did things at his own pace. He also admitted that he chose not to attend the coach meetings because he felt unnecessary. Although Suzuki thought it wasn’t necessary, one NXT coach decided to address him.

“I’m not gonna go into details about this, but one day one of the coaches asked me, “Why the hell did you [not go to the meeting]?” He tried explaining to me what he was mad about, but I didn’t understand anything of it, and I wasn’t convinced,” said Suzuki. (H/t Connor Writing)

He continued, “This was happening in front of the wrestlers, so a bunch of them got in between us like, “Calm down, coach!” Afterward, Bernard told me, “(The coach I fell out with) is really mad at you.” and I just said, “So what?” Something had to change. We always kept telling the trainees, “You gotta change, we need to change things up,” but at that moment, I thought, “It’s you guys who really have to change. Wrestlers don’t need coaches, but coaches couldn’t exist without wrestlers. You’ve forgotten that.”(H/t Connor Writing)

WWE Released Hideki Suzuki

Although Suzuki had a heated argument, he shared that he respected the coaches’ work and they were nice people. He also believes that the NXT coaches acted more friendly towards him after the incident. It’s unclear if the incident or his coaching beliefs played a role in WWE releasing Suzuki on Jan. 5.

The company released talent and employees throughout last year due to budget cuts. He revealed in the interview that Matt Bloom gave him the news that WWE decided to let him go. While he’s still unsure why WWE released him, Suzuki is ready to move on.

Former WWE star Nixon Newell (Tegan Nox) has provided a health update as she prepares to return to the ring.

Newell was called up to the main roster on Jul. 9, 2021, along with Shotzi Blackheart. She was only given a few opportunities to compete before wrestling her final SmackDown match on August 20th of last year.

She suffered three ACL tears in her WWE career that sidelined her significantly. It’s unclear if Newell’s injuries during her run resulted in the company’s decision to release her on Nov. 18, 2021.

During an interview with Chris Denker, Nixon Newell admitted that she is the happiest she’s been since getting released from WWE. While she is ready to compete again, she is really enjoying the time off being a traveling pro wrestler.

“I miss wrestling,” said Newell. “I really miss being in front of the fans. I miss building a bond with the fans throwing myself around, but it’s been nice to give my body a little bit of time off after wrestling for ten years, almost non-stop, even when I was in rehab,” said Newell.

She continued, “I was still working every day doing hard stuff, so for ten years, my body just being like I f*cking hate you, you stop listening to me. The last 90 days, I think I’ve been in the ring three times, and it’s been great, but my body is needed to relax recharge like build yourself up, and it’s been bloody lovely, but I do miss wrestling, and I’m hoping I can figure something out.” She also shared that her knee is healed and doesn’t need a knee brace.

Where Does Newell Want to Wrestle?

As a free agent, Newell has an opportunity to sign or wrestle with any wrestling promotion. While she isn’t sure where she’ll wrestle, Newell named several wrestlers from All Elite Wrestling and Impact Wrestling.

“…There’s so many people from so many different companies that I want to work with. I’d like to work with Ruby Soho again. We’ve done some stuff on the indies and Chikara, which was so much fun. She’s one of my favorite people to be in the ring with,” said Newell.

She continued, “I’d like to actually have time with Deonna to longer than three minutes, including entrances. I’d like to do stuff with her, Chelsea Green, Mickie James, Serena Deeb, Taylor Wilde. I have such a huge list of people I want to work with from not just Impact or AEW, but worldwide.”

Her 90 days non-compete clause ended on Feb. 18. Stay tuned to see if Nixon Newell shows up in AEW, Impact, or elsewhere.

WWE’s 205 Live show will no longer be around in the near future.

The company’s developmental system is going through a revamp. NXT was rebranded to NXT 2.0 on Sep. 14, 2021. NXT 2.0 has featured newer talent from the developmental system to build them to be the next company star. While introducing new talent like NXT Champion Bron Breakker, the company has released or let go several veterans from the NXT era like Samoa Joe on Jan.6.

While NXT 2.0 features new talent, not every wrestler can compete on the show weekly. The WWE decided to have the fresh talent from developmental to compete on 205 Live. Wrestlers like Draco Anthony have competed on the 205 Live last year before his NXT 2.0 debut on Feb. 1. PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reports that 205 Live will be ending and that the WWE will rebrand it to NXT: Level Up. The taping of the new show starts on Feb. 15 and will be 60 minutes episode.

“…Instead of 205 Live, WWE are slated to tape the first episode of NXT: Level Up prior to tonight’s NXT Vengeance Day live broadcast in Orlando, Florida at the WWE Performance Center. We are told the episode is slated to be 60 minutes long, said the report(h/t Mike Johnson).

Problems With 205 Live

While 205 Live will end, fans can hope that the company will pay more attention to NXT: Level Up. 205 Live started as a show for the WWE cruiserweight division and had great talents like Cedric Alexander and Mustafa Ali, and Tony Nese. While the show had cruiserweights putting on incredible matches, the WWE failed to promote the shows. Former 205 Live talent Tony Nese shared his experience being on the show with Chris Van Vliet on Oct. 27, 2021.

“We would always say that we were in this wrestling purgatory. Even though I was there, when it comes to the company’s decisions, I’m on the outside looking in too. This is all speculation, but it seemed like they had an idea for the show. It was Triple H’s idea. It was his baby. He wanted the show to have a yearly tournament, win/loss records, all that stuff. He wanted it to be a different feel. As soon as it was announced that the cruiserweights would be a part of RAW, that was where Vince was like, ‘No, it’s my show now.’ All that other stuff went out the window,” said Nese(Fernando Quiles Jr.).

It’s unclear what WWE has planned for the first NXT: Level Up episode.

“The Natural” Dustin Rhodes reconfirms he is still with All Elite Wrestling.

His employers shocked the professional wrestling community with the announcement of Cody and Brandi Rhodes’s departure from the company. Both Cody and Brandi signed a multi-year contract with AEW before the the start of the promotion on Jan. 1, 2019. The “American Nightmare” confirmed reports on Jan. 26 that he didn’t have a contract with the company.

Cody’s lost his last match against Sammy Guevara at Beach Break on Jan. 26. The company teased a feud between Brandi and former UFC star Paige VanZant at AEW Dynamite on Feb. 2. It’s unclear what the company had planned for Brandi and Van Zant. However after failed contract negotiations, both Cody and Brandi decided to test free agency.

Now that both his brother and sister in law aren’t with AEW, fans have started to wonder if Dustin would leave the company. However, he shared on Twitter that he is still with his employer and doesn’t plan on leaving.

Why Did Dustin Rhodes Join AEW?

Before joining AEW, Dustin felt that he lost his passion for wrestling with WWE. Under the persona Goldust, he has wrestled for and left WWE on different occasions over the years. His his last stint with the company lasted for six years. After feeling underutilzed with his former employers, he requested his release. While not immediate, WWE granted Dustin’s release on Apr. 21, 2019.

In an interview with AEW Unrestricted on Apr. 23, 2020, Dustin shared why he lost his passion for wrestling in WWE.

“When you’re sitting at home for a couple of months with another company who doesn’t value you at all, and you’re sitting there knowing you have so much more to offer. You kind of lose your passion, and for the first time in my 31 years, I lost my passion for the wrestling business,” said Dustin(h/t Anutosh Bajpai).

He also discussed the moment he decided to ask for his release in the interview.

“They just will not give me the time of day, and I had enough.” said Rhodes,” I said enough was enough, and for the first time, I kind of stood up for myself in a big way and said, ‘I am quitting. I am asking you for my release. I am done. I’m not happy here anymore, said Dustin(h/t Anutosh Bajpai).

Dustin signed a multi-year contract with AEW on Aug. 30, 2019. While he has no interest in leaving, it’s unclear if AEW will renew his contact when it’s up.

Kofi Kingston still hasn’t fully recovered from an injury he sustained during last month’s Royal Rumble match

The former WWE champion is known for his Royal Rumble moments using his eye-popping athleticism to avoid elimination. Kingston has done incredible things like walking on his hands to get back into the ring. Every year, he and WWE try to create more moments for fans to remember. However, this year they were unsuccessful.

After Kevin Owens threw Kingston out of the ring during the 2022 Rumble, Kingston tried to catch himself on the barricade without his feet touching the floor. Unfortunately, his feet did touch. The error was caught on camera, resulting in his elimination from the match.

Kingston tells The Week in Geek Radio Show that his toe is bothersome from the botched “Kofi spot.”

“It was definitely a risky move, he said. “I knew I was going to be in pain no matter what. You know, whether I hit it or not, and unfortunately, I got the pain and didn’t get the benefit of actually doing what I wanted to do.”

He continued, “The ribs are doing okay. My toe is actually in a lot of pain, which is really weird, but I didn’t expect to come down with such velocity from that height. Although looking at it now, I’m like, well, what did I expect? I don’t know.”

Kofi Kingston Has No Regrets

It’s unclear how bad is Kingston’s toe injury, but he is still competing on Friday Night Smackdown in tag team matches. The former WWE Champion also doesn’t regret his failed Royal Rumble moment and believes it’s essential to take risks.

“…I tell people that it’s so important to go out and try as hard as you can, even if there is a risk of failing and it might be a high risk of failing. You still have to go out and try. You can’t do anything epic without risk, so go out and put yourself out there, and don’t be afraid to fail,” said Kingston.

He teamed with Big E in a loss against Los Lotharios at Smackdown on Feb. 11. Kingston didn’t share in the interview if he considered taking time from wrestling to heal his injury. It seems the WWE will continue to let him wrestle unless the damage gets worse.

AEW broadcaster Jim Ross shared his thoughts on Sting’s relationship with Darby Allin.

Wrestling fans didn’t know what they would see from the WCW legend when he arrived in AEW on Dec. 2, 2020. At 61 years old, he signed a multi-year deal after initially retiring from wrestling due to a neck injury. His new employers decided to pair him with Darby Allin on Jan. 20, 2021, and make him an on-screen mentor.

Teaming with Allin, Sting has had a resurgence in his wrestling career. He made his in-ring debut for AEW with Allin defeating Team Taz’s Brian Cage and Ricky Starks at AEW Revolution on Mar. 8, 2021.

Since his in-ring debut, the company has had Sting and Allin team up against other groups like FTR and the Acclaimed. Ross on Grilling Jr. shared that Sting is also helping Allin and others behind the scenes.

“… He’s taken Darby under his wing. If nothing else on traveling and planning a match or whatever it may be, said Ross. He continued, “… He’s really a good mentor to the entire roster. He also added that AEW is blessed to have Sting on the roster.

Sting Wanting to End His Career on His Terms

Before signing with AEW, wrestling fans thought Sting’s career was over. He suffered his neck injury during his match with Seth Rollins at Night of Champions on Sep. 10, 2015. While recovering from his injury, he decided to retire from wrestling. However, the success of AEW made him choose to end his retirement and finish his career on his terms.

The legend spoke to Sports Illustrated Justin Barrasso on Dec. 22, 2021, about rewriting the end of his wrestling career.

“Not many people get to rewrite their final chapter, not at this level,” Sting says. “I had great matches at the Greensboro Coliseum with Lex Luger, and now I get to do it with Darby and CM Punk against MJF and FTR. It’s a great way to end my career. The crowd their appreciation makes me want to tear up. It’s almost as if they don’t want to say goodbye.” (h/t Justin Barrasso)

Sting doesn’t seem ready to end his career anytime soon. Based on Ross’ comments, the company also wants the legend to continue helping mentor younger talent.

“The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels is unsure if he’ll wrestle for All Elite Wrestling again.

Daniels hasn’t competed for AEW since he and Frankie Kazarian’s lost to the Young Bucks at AEW Dynamite on May. 12, 2021. The result of the loss made him and Kazarian end their tag team. While his partner has competed for AEW as a singles talent, the company has Daniels working as a Head of Talent Relations.

Although he hasn’t wrestled for AEW, he is competing for other wrestling promotions. He made his Impact Wrestling return defeating Madman Fulton on Sep. 30, 2021. However, in an interview with Chris Van Fleet, Daniels shared that he still hopes to be an in-ring talent for AEW soon.

“…The landscape of AEW is in constant flux. Addition, subtractions, so I mean it’s just a crowded field right now, and hopefully, I can make my way back there, said Daniels. He continued, “…There no real timetable as to when that might be, so I’m sort of at the mercy of circumstance.”

AEW Signing New Talent

Daniels isn’t the only talent unsure of his in-ring future in AEW. Joey Janela revealed on the Barstool’s Rasslin Podcast with Brandon Walker that his AEW contract is coming up on Apr. 30, and he isn’t sure if the company will re-sign him. As some talent in the company is unsure of their future, AEW President Tony Khan continues to sign free agents like Keith Lee on Feb. 9.

When the WWE released or didn’t re-sign talent throughout last year, fans speculated if Khan would attempt to sign them. With the signing of Lee, Khan has signed four former NXT Champions within a year. As the AEW roster gets more stacked with talent, veterans like Daniels or Janela may lose opportunities to compete.

It’s unclear if AEW has plans for an in-ring return for Daniels.

All Elite Wrestling talent Lance Archer has detailed the severity of the neck injury from last year.

Wrestling fans were concerned about Archer’s wrestling career in a match against Eddie Kingston at AEW Dynamite on Oct 23, 2021. The neck injury occurred when he landed on his head doing a moonsault from the top rope. While he finished the match, the damage caused him to miss two months from wrestling.

Archer returned to AEW on Jan 12 by attacking AEW Heavyweight Champion Adam Page. He challenges the champion for the title in a Texas Death Match on AEW Dynamite on Feb 9. The title challenger appeared on Busted Open on Sirus XM to discuss his neck injury and if he’s ready to wrestle again.

“I feel great. Beyond blessed for the fact that I actually didn’t break my neck,” said Archer. He explained,”… A centimeter a different way and, it could’ve been a different result. I basically gave myself an extreme version of whiplash because I bounced off my forehead, but if it had been any part of the crown of my head, I probably would’ve been paralyzed or dead. So beyond blessed that it didn’t happen, and then the medical staff here has been extremely amazing.

They kept me on the road and kept me in physical therapy here with our guys and, I’ve done everything they asked me to do before coming back and even before this match. You know every day that the different physical exercises that they asked me to do, I’ve stayed on top of them and, they’ve been extremely happy and like I said I feel great.”

Is Archer Concerned Taking the Buck Shot Lariat?

Archer feels confident challenging Page for the AEW title. He has competed in a Texas Death Match before and has a win over Jon Moxley for the IWGP United States Championship at Fyter Fest on Jul 21, 2021. Although, recovered neck injury does create concern if he could take certain moves, including Page’s Buck Shot Lariat. The champion connects with the lariat to the neck and chest area, potentially causing whiplash to the opponent’s neck. However, Archer isn’t concerned and plans to win the championship.

“…If you go into this business if you go into any match with any trepidation and worry that when you get hurt. If I’m worried about his finish, If I’m worried about any of these moves, If I’m worried about doing another moonsault and landing on my head, If I’m worried about any of that when I’ll get hurt,” said Archer.

It’s unclear if Page will try to be extra protective of Archer after his neck injury. Although it seems the challenger is ready to do what it takes to defeat the AEW champion.

Kyle O’Riley credits WWE legend Shawn Michaels for teaching him how to structure a main event wrestling match.

Before his departure for All Elite Wrestling, O’Riley had singles run as a main event talent in NXT. At the time, the WWE wanted to give him a push while his partner Bobby Fish dealt with an injury. NXT had him feud against his former Undisputed Era leader Adam Cole and Finn Balor.

O’Riley had experience as a singles wrestler in other promotions, like Ring of Honor and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla. However, he thanks Michaels for learning new skills on how to compete in the main event. On the All Elite Wrestling Unrestricted Podcast the new signee explained how the legend help him.

“I learned alot about structuring like a main event match and you know there’s that age old adage of pro wrestling listen to the people, listen to the people, ane never really got what the meant,” said O’Riley.

He continued, “…Shawn really kind of taught us just to instead of going up and down with the crowd reaction you try and just keep it at a level. So like on a double down just don’t move and like until they start to die and, then you can move and, then you can bring them back up and, it’s just little things like that you don’t really think of and, it’s really hard to learn on your own until someone just kind of explains it to you and, then a light bulb goes off and just helps take your game to next level.”

Shawn Michaels Current Role in NXT

O’Riley isn’t the only former NXT talent to praise Michaels for his help. Adam Cole and Johnny Garagno have also credited the WWE legend for his coaching and appreciates their time working with him.

While NXT has changed to NXT 2.0, he continues to work closely with younger talent to succeed. His job as a coach helped Michaels get promoted to NXT 2.0 Vice President of Talent Development.

Kyle O’Riley in AEW

O’Riley signed with AEW on Dec. 22, 2021, but he still is thankful for his time in NXT. In the interview, he didn’t share any ill will to his former employer.

In AEW, he’s reformed ReDragon with Bobby Fish and hope to become AEW Tag Team Champions. Although he is back in a tag team, it’s still possible to see O’Riley compete in one on one matches.

It’s unclear if AEW fans will see him compete in the main event as a singles star.

WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil (Thaddeus Bullard) and his middle school have made Academy Awards (Oscars) history.

On Tuesday, O’Neil appeared on ABC’s Good Morning America to reveal the nominees for the Best Animated Feature. The announcement was made live from the Thaddeus M. Bullard Academy at Sligh Middle Magnet School in Tampa, Florida. This was the first time Academy Award nominees were announced from a middle school.

“Today we not only got to celebrate the best in cinema, but we got to celebrate diversity and the first black producer in Oscar history,” Bullard said. “Our foundation is about providing opportunities to youths in our most struggling neighborhoods to inspire them and to show them that anything is possible.”

He added, “We continue to try to bring opportunities to these kids to level the playing field and expand their minds far beyond their circumstances. I can’t thank Will Packer and the Academy enough for this amazing opportunity for exposure which will surely lead to expansion for so many of these kids and families.”

The 94th Academy Awards take place Sunday, March 27, 2022.

Titus O’Neil: WWE Global Ambassador

Although O’Neil isn’t wrestling for the company consistently, he has contributed greatly as the WWE Global Ambassador. His employers has allowed O’Neil to help with their charity programs like Be A Star. However, he also continues work on his own charities and help his community in Tampa, Bay, Florida.

On Jul. 17, 2020, he was a named a finalist for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. While he wasn’t the winner, the WWE honored him with the Warrior Award at the 2021 WWE Hall of Fame.

O’Neil continues to expand his legacy outside of wrestling for WWE. While his in-ring career may be over, he has accomplished great things as the company’s Global Ambassador.

Congratulations to Keith Lee and Mia Yim on getting married.

The couple tied the knot on Feb. 5 after spending several years together. It’s unclear when Mr. and Mrs. Lee began their relationship, but WWE fans knew they were together in NXT.

Mia Yim commented on her magical night. She thanked all the guests who attended their “Disney” wedding and feels proud and lucky to finally be Mrs. Lee.

Several past and present WWE stars were in attendance for the ceremony, including Shelton Benjamin and Damien Priest.

Keith Lee and Mia Yim

Mia Yim and Keith Lee are free agents after being released by WWE on November 4, 2021.

However, Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer speculates that Mr. Lee already agreed to a deal with All Elite Wrestling. “Keith Lee is on that list, and we’re told that he’s been talked about for [AEW] if not has already agreed to a deal here,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

After his 90-day WWE non-compete clause expired, Lee posted on Twitter that he is looking forward to wrestling again. His last match was on Oct. 25, 2021, when he defeated Cedric Alexander at Monday Night Raw.

Wrestling fans are awaiting his return to competition. Based on Meltzer’s report, AEW wants Lee on their roster. However, AEW hasn’t shared if they have signed Lee or spoken with him. AEW President Tony Khan revealed on Busted Open on Sirus XM that the “forbidden door” would open again and expect more free-agent talent signed.

“…Just in the last several weeks, we’ve made some big one, and I plan to make some more big signings and not in the long term future. I mean in the short-term future,” said Khan.

While it’s unclear when Mr. or Mrs. lee will wrestle again, they seem to be enjoying this new chapter in their lives.

Former WWE superstar Nia Jax wants fans to know that she isn’t an unsafe wrestler.

Jax appeared on the Sessions with Renee Paquette podcast on Feb. 1 to discuss her career in WWE and what’s next for her. In the discussion, Jax shared that she was hurt when wrestling fans labeled her as “unsafe” and harassed her online.

Jax acknowledged that she had to be cautious working due to her size, but she claims to have only injured two people throughout her career.

“… I’ve already acknowledged that my coach Sara Amato had always said you always have to be aware because you are so much bigger that like you throwing your arm and hitting somebody in the face is not going to be the same as somebody smaller than you and so I was always conscious of that, and I always try to take pride like I worked with Lexi (Alexa Bliss) for most of my career like she’s so tiny and she trusted me,” said Jax.

She continued, “…That hurt when people just like, ‘Oh, she just injuries everybody. She just hurts everybody,’ and I can tell you this right now in my career I know I’ve injured two people. Obviously, Becky was one of them, and there’s another one that, like you know I don’t want to call her out, but like I know I did, and I profusely apologized.”

Nia Jax Injuring Becky Lynch

Nia Jax’s most infamous incident of injuring an opponent is when she gave Becky Lynch a concussion and left her bloodied. The injury occurred during a brawl on Monday Night Raw on Nov. 13, 2018, when she hit Lynch in the face. While fans vilified Jax, she shared that it was an accident.

“The producer of that match, I won’t name names, basically was like, ‘this needs to look real. Say sorry, later,’ and We were all like, okay cool, let’s go, let’s have fun, whatever and being the larger person, I feel as though people feel, ‘Oh, we can hit the shit out of her. She’ll be fine’, which is true. For the most part, like I get wailed and whatever. I’m okay,” said Jax.

During the segment, Jax claims that wrestlers hit her on the back of the head and swung back on someone, which happened to be Lynch.

“…My fist wasn’t closed. I didn’t punch her. But it did connect. I didn’t even realize it was Becky. I honestly thought it was Lana, said Jax. The former WWE talent continued, “…Then I look around, and I’m like, Oh my gosh, there’s blood everywhere. Then I look, and I’m like, Oh crap, Becky’s down.”

WWE released Nia Jax on Nov. 4, 2021, ending her seven-year career with the company. Now a free agent, she wants to enjoy the time away from wrestling and engaging in new opportunities.

Jax also revealed to Renee Paquette that she turned down an offer by WWE to appear in the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble match. You can read more about that below:

All Elite Wrestling first signed trans wrestler Nyla Rose, shares her thoughts regarding a wrestling fan offensive sign aimed towards her.

On Dec. 22, 2021, Rose wrestled Ruby Soho on AEW Dynamite. A fan hoisted a transphobic sign for the AEW camera to see during the match. Rose responded by giving the middle finger, and her employers removed the male fan from the event. Sports Illustrated Justin Barrasso spoke with Rose about the incident that upset those that supported her and diversity.

Barrasso also transcribed the following quotes.

“For the most part, people understood why that sign was wrong,” Rose said. She continued, “Maybe that person didn’t quite understand the gravity of what they were doing. You want to boo, that’s cool. But there is a line. People might feel it’s a conflict of their beliefs by simply respecting someone else, but it’s not. You don’t have to understand or even agree with somebody’s situation to show them simple respect and kindness, like respecting their pronouns and respecting their way of life. I’d love for people to be cool with it, but if that’s not your thing, it’s not your thing. But shouldn’t people want to treat their fellow humans with a little respect and kindness?”

Nyla Rose’s on her Influence in AEW

As an African and Native American transgender wrestler in AEW, Rose is a role model for others. Although the article notes that Rose believes she is a wrestler and not a pioneer, the former AEW Women’s World Champion recognizes how influential she is.

“People from so many different walks of life have connected with me, and I think that’s wild,” Rose said. She continued, “I grew up a wrestling fan, and I found inspiration in my life from the things the wrestlers did. I’m going out there thinking, I’m just performing and putting on a show, but people have told me I’m a beacon for them. Black families have said they see me as someone who is so strong. As a Native person, I’ve heard from families that tell me it makes them so proud of their heritage that they’ve broken down in joy when they see themselves reflected in the Iroquois flag. The LGBTQ community has such a prominent figure [in Nyla Rose], and I understand the importance of that.”

Rose isn’t the only AEW wrestler from the LGBTQ community that had to deal with an offensive spectator. On Dec. 8, 2021, at AEW Dynamite, an instigator called Anthony Bowen a homophobic slur during his match. Like Rose, Bowens hopes to continue ignoring the hate and positively influence those who look up to him.

All Elite Wrestling superstar Jade Cargill appreciates fans comparing her to wrestling legend Goldberg.

The State of Florida Sports Podcast’s Tim Walters interviewed Cargill about her successful run in AEW. She kept her undefeated streak alive and won her 26th match on Jan. 28 against Julia Hart. The booking of Cargill reminds fans of Goldberg’s undefeated streak in WCW. The AEW TBS Champion finds it flattering when asked about the Goldberg comparisons.

“It’s amazing. It feels great. Being that I have no type of wrestling background prior to my first match Mar. 3. It’s breathtaking. It feels amazing for me to be compared to somebody with such a stature, and I’m blessed. Our owner Tony Khan put me in a remarkable position, and I’m grateful. I work hard, but I’m very grateful,” said Cargill.

Jade Cargill’s Undefeated Streak

AEW has treated Cargill as a dominant force in the women’s division since her first match. She teamed with NBA legend Shaquille O’ Neal to defeat Cody Rhodes and Red Velvet in her debut match on Mar. 3, 2020. Since winning the tag team match, Cargill has defeated the likes of Santana Garrett, Leyla Hirsch, and Thunder Rosa. To become the TBS Champion, Cargill also defeated Ruby Soho at AEW Dynamite on Jan. 5. At 26-0, it is unclear how long her employers will extend her winning streak.

How Chyna Influenced Jade Cargill

Later in the interview, Cargill revealed that WWE legend Chyna inspired her before getting into professional wrestling. She praised Chyna for her presence on TV and making her feel comfortable about her body, as Cargill loved to exercise and be fit growing up.

“…Chyna made you put down whatever you were doing and watch her. Her presence was unmatched. I don’t think anybody else to me, to this day, made me sit down and focus on what she was doing,” said Cargill. She continued, “…She made me love my body more than anything. She was different. She looked different than everybody else that was in the divas’ era. So she looked totally different, her build was different, her confidence was different, and I grew up very muscular, and the fact that she loved herself, she loved what she was doing, she loved her body, it made me love myself more than anything. If anything, she helped my confidence rise to a remarkable chunk, and I felt good about myself growing up.”

The AEW TBS Champion hopes to continue her success and influence young girls as Chyna did.