SEScoops

Category: AEW

  • Sting Hypes His First Wrestling Match On TNT In 20 Years

    Sting Hypes His First Wrestling Match On TNT In 20 Years

    Wrestling legend Sting is set to compete on TNT for the first time in 20 years.

    Sting will be teaming with Darby Allin to take on 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match on the Aug. 18 edition of AEW Dynamite. While Sting has been a regular character on AEW since his promotional debut back in Dec. 2020, this will be his first match on TNT since March 26, 2001.

    In a press release, Sting discussed making his in-ring return to TNT.

    “My relationship with TNT goes back more than 25 years, so having the opportunity to wrestle on the network that housed some of my most important moments is pretty surreal. The return of crowds has already been electric enough over the past month and a half, but there’s going to be an extra surge of adrenaline in Houston knowing that we’re live on TNT on Wednesday night.”

    AEW head honcho, Tony Khan, also chimed in.

    “When we first launched AEW, I was ecstatic to bring professional wrestling back to TNT after such a long absence. So many wrestling fans, myself included, watched Sting defeat the legendary Ric Flair 20 years ago in that last match on TNT, and now it’s such a thrill that Sting will finally return to the ring on Wednesday Night Dynamite to team with Darby Allin against 2point0 in a Texas Tornado Tag Team Match. This historic match on Wednesday in Houston is just another example of AEW’s commitment to bring wrestling fans the great moments that they deserve.”

    Sting has played a vital role in AEW since debuting for the company. He has aligned himself with Darby Allin. Sting is often seen at ringside during Darby’s matches. Sting has only had two matches with AEW, both tag team matches that resulted in victory.

    What are you expecting for Sting’s in-ring TNT return?

  • Fuego Del Sol On AEW Contract: ‘I Didn’t See It Coming’

    Fuego Del Sol On AEW Contract: ‘I Didn’t See It Coming’

    Fuego Del Sol has revealed what he knew about his big AEW Rampage segment.

    On the debut episode of Rampage. Del Sol battled AEW TNT Champion Miro. The stipulation was that if Del Sol won, then not only would he take the gold but he’d also be offered a contract with AEW.

    Del Sol was unable to defeat Miro. After getting the early jump on the champion, Del Sol was stopped in his tracks after eating a Machka Kick. Miro then applied Game Over and Del Sol was forced to tap. Miro then ripped up Del Sol’s contract, or at least he thought he did.

    Following a commercial break, Sammy Guevara, Del Sol’s close friend, walked out and AEW President Tony Khan handed him a contract. Guevara entered the ring and revealed that Del Sol is All Elite.

    During a Twitch stream, Del Sol revealed that he was unaware that he’d be getting a contract on television.

    “They told me to lay there and after commercial comes back, get your standing ovation. ‘Hey, these people love you,’ Bryce (Remsburg) was getting it in his ear, ‘Hey, lay here, after commercial break, stand up, get your standing ovation, these people love you. I stood up, I thought, ‘Hell of a match, fun night.’ Sammy Guevara’s music hit, my heart dropped into my stomach because I knew what was happening in that moment. I was overwhelmed with emotion.

    “I get goosebumps. I enjoyed the match so much. I was so amped all day about the match. I had this vision in my mind. Three DDTs. I was on cloud nine all day. We filmed the package they aired before the match, the night before, and it felt big, but I had no idea that they were going to do that after the match. Sammy was dressed nice and I didn’t even think about it. I was so focused on the match that everything else was white noise. I was laser-focused on Miro. It was perfect because I didn’t see it coming.”

    Del Sol’s comments confirm what Tony Khan told Sports Illustrated. The AEW boss said the moment that Del Sol received his AEW contract on television was a “complete shoot.”

    Fuego Del Sol only has one win in AEW. That victory was a tag team match so he remains winless in singles competition. With a fresh contract in hand, however, that figures to change soon.

  • CM Punk Shares Cryptic Message Ahead Of AEW Rampage

    CM Punk Shares Cryptic Message Ahead Of AEW Rampage

    After waiting a few weeks, fans are just days away from the heavily speculated AEW debut of CM Punk on Friday’s episode of Rampage. 

    Punk seems to be having fun teasing the fans on social media as he dropped an “All Elite” reference during commentary at the CFFC fight over the weekend and then posted a cryptic message on his Instagram Stories. 

    The post had the numbers: 05, 11, 21. Fans quickly picked up on how the first two numbers are from Punk’s hottest years in the wrestling business. It also references the three times he signed a full-time wrestling contract.

    2005 would’ve marked Punk’s time in ROH while the second number was when he re-signed with WWE and had a huge run that summer that included his famous pipebomb promo. Obviously, 2021 would be the year when he signed with AEW.

    It was reported several weeks ago that Punk had been in talks about an in-ring return with AEW being the most likely landing spot. It was all but confirmed when they announced a special edition of Rampage on August 20th from Chicago, Illinois at the United Center, which sold out right away.

    CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast
  • First Post-All Out Dynamite in Cincinnati ‘Closing In On Sellout’

    First Post-All Out Dynamite in Cincinnati ‘Closing In On Sellout’

    All-Elite Wrestling Dynamite at Fifth-Third Arena in Cincinnati has sold around 8,000 tickets three weeks prior to the Wednesday Sept. 8, 2021 event, according to a staff member at UC’s ticket office this morning. The arena’s capacity for the show will be near 10,000

    It will be AEW’s first TV after the All Out PPV on Sept. 5 and its first show in Cincinnati. The show will be a homecoming for Jon Moxley and Karl “Machine Gun” Anderson. Moxley is from Cincinnati while Anderson grew up in Northern Kentucky.

    AEW has 3,756 ticket for Dynamite in Houston on Wednesday, according to WrestleTix. Friday’s “The First Dance” Rampage show at the United Center in Chicago is sold out as is the Sept. 5 All Out PPV at NOW Arena. According to Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, 5,000 tickets (around 50 percent capacity) remain for both Rampage and Dynamite shows prior to the PPV at the same venue.

    Moxley and Anderson grew up in the area and trained in Cincinnati. Moxley trained under Cody Hawk and Les Thatcher at former WCW and WWE developmental territory Heartland Wrestling Association in Cincinnati. Anderson trained with Thatcher at the HWA and later with Roger Ruffen at Cincinnati’s Northern Wrestling Federation’s BoneKrushers wrestling school before moving to the New Japan Pro Wrestling Dojo in Los Angeles in the mid-2000s.

    AEW tried to book the Heritage Center (Cincinnati’s former US Bank Arena) early in its touring days, but the venue has an exclusivity agreement with World Wrestling Entertainment.

    The arena, which is located on the UC campus, will have capacity of around 10,000 according to the university. The UC ticket office told SEScoops.com it expects the event to be sold out. This will be the first major wrestling show at the arena since it underwent renovations in 2018. AEW will tape the Friday, Sept. 10 episode of Rampage the same night.

  • Jon Moxley Files Trademarks For Team With Sami Callihan

    Jon Moxley Files Trademarks For Team With Sami Callihan

    Jonathan Good, better known to wrestling fans as Jon Moxley, filed some interesting trademarks on August 11th. Moxley filed to trademark the terms “The Switchblades” and “Switchblade Conspiracy” for wrestling purposes.

    The terms are former team names used by Jon Moxley and Sami Callihan. Joe Gacy has also been associated with them in the past. In 2010, Moxley and Callihan held the WXW tag-team titles for 310 days. They defended the titles for months in Germany before dropping them to the American Wolves on a show from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

    Moxley and Callihan are set to team up for the first time in years this October. They will reform the Switchblade Conspiracy on a show for Callihan’s Pro Wrestling Revolver promotion.

    In 2019, Callihan spoke about his relationship with Moxley on the WINCLY podcast.

    “It’s a weird relationship of ‘little brother, big brother’ and it’s always the two of us striving to see who’s better. We’re both weird human beings and messed-up individuals. One day we’re gonna get back in the ring together as grown-ass adults and see who’s better.”

    Some thought Moxley may have chosen Sami Callihan as his partner at NJPW Resurgence. Moxley teamed with Yuji Nagata on the show and lost to the Good Brothers, however.

  • Lance Archer Says He Would “Happily” Put Nick Gage Through Glass

    Lance Archer Says He Would “Happily” Put Nick Gage Through Glass

    AEW star and the former IWGP United States Champion Lance Archer recently spoke to Nick Hausman on The Wrestling Inc. Daily. The former champion discussed several topics during the interview, including Deathmatch King, Nick Gage.

    “I’ll gladly put him through some broken glass and kick his ass,” Lance Archer revealed. “I’m good with that.”

    Archer would also discuss the ‘forbidden door’ angle that has seen performers from several companies cross the borders over the past year. NJPW, NWA, AEW, IMPACT and more have seen wrestlers from around the globe perform on their cards.

    Lance Archer on The Forbidden Door

    “I think it intrigues everybody,” Archer noted. “I think that’s the fun part. Again, we keep going back and forth on the Forbidden Door, and the fact that we have a working relationship with New Japan right now, we have a working relationship with Impact.”

    “And whatever it is, the different people that are coming in and out of AEW on a consistent basis” Lance Archer added. “I think that would be interesting for anybody. The fact if there was some kind of supershow  that involved several different companies with talents from every one of them, fighting each other, fighting for their championships, whatever the case may be. I think that’s the perfect element for a place like MSG.”

  • Tony Khan: Fuego Del Sol’s AEW Contract Was A ‘Complete Shoot’

    Tony Khan: Fuego Del Sol’s AEW Contract Was A ‘Complete Shoot’

    Tony Khan claims that when Fuego Del Sol was offered his AEW contract on the debut episode of Rampage, it was a total shoot.

    This past Friday night (Aug. 13), Del Sol challenged Miro for the TNT Championship. The stipulation was that if Del Sol won then not only would he become a titleholder but he’d also be offered an AEW contract. Despite getting off to a blazing start, nailing Miro with three tornado DDTs, Del Sol was crushed by the Machka Kick and was forced to tap out to the Game Over.

    After the match, Miro seemingly tore up Del Sol’s contract. When Rampage returned from commercial break, Del Sol was in the ring and received cheers from the Pittsburgh crowd. Sammy Guevara then made his entrance and was handed a contract by Khan. He then presented it to Del Sol, revealing his best friend is now All Elite.

    “Fuego, Fuego man you lost but sometimes there’s victory in defeat. I mean, you’ve been coming here for the past year, you’re like 1-50 but who cares cause these people love you. And Fuego, whether you know it a lot of guys love you back there too. Tony Khan thought it was only right for me to be the one to come out here, since you’re my best friend, to say officially Fuego Del Sol is All Elite.”

    During an interview with Sports Illustrated, Khan revealed that the moment Del Sol received his contract was a legit shoot.

    “That was a complete shoot. Fuego had no idea that was going to happen. Sammy was the only person I told, and Fuego was legitimately surprised to receive the contract he’s been dreaming of and chasing.”

    Fuego Del Sol has yet to have a singles victory under the AEW banner. His only win with the promotion was a tag team match.

  • CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast

    CM Punk Drops Latest AEW Hint During MMA Broadcast

    CM Punk continues to get the wrestling world talking with another AEW hint.

    Back in July, it was reported by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful that Punk is looking to make his return to the pro wrestling industry. The report also noted that the likely candidate to scoop Punk up is AEW.

    AEW hasn’t been shy in dropping references either. Darby Allin recently cut a promo where he said anyone looking to prove themselves has to compete in AEW, even if they think they’re the “Best in the World.” That, of course, is CM Punk’s catchphrase.

    Punk, who serves as a color commentator for the CFFC promotion, dropped a big hint regarding his future inside the ring during an event. Take a listen below.

    https://twitter.com/joedaddy85/status/1426760880293883904

    This isn’t the first time Punk has dropped an AEW hint. He recently took to his Instagram Stories to post a quote that is tattooed on Darby Allin’s chest.

    CM Punk hasn’t been seen inside a wrestling ring since 2014. He made his final appearance for WWE at the Royal Rumble PPV. Punk says he was due to face and defeat Triple H at WrestleMania but he grew tired of what he claims to have been broken promises, a misdiagnosis of his staph infection, lack of time off, and creative differences.

    It was reported by Fightful Select that Punk has looked as if he hasn’t missed a beat when it comes to training. Punk had to do some in-ring work for the Heels show starring Stephen Amell. Those who were on set say Punk looked so fresh in the ring that they believe he has been training for a while now.

    How big of an impact do you think CM Punk would make if he does indeed return?

  • Kenny Omega Reacts To Ric Flair (Video), Omega-Andrade Trash Talk

    Kenny Omega Reacts To Ric Flair (Video), Omega-Andrade Trash Talk

    Kenny Omega retained the AAA Mega Championship over Andrade El Idolo at Saturday night’s Triplemania XXIX event.

    Andrade was accompanied to the ring by Ric Flair, who couldn’t help getting physically involved in the match. Flair roughed up Kenny Omega before slapping his figure four leglock on Konnan. You can see video of that altercation here.

    Despite taking several chops and a punch from the Nature Boy, Omega was victorious. He commented on his match backstage after TripleMania and had some words for Ric Flair. As you can imagine, Omega was none too pleased that Flair roughed him up during the match.

    Kenny Omega & Andrade Trash Talk

    On Sunday morning, Kenny Omega sent Andrade a message on Twitter. The Best Bout Machine told Andade that he is a tough competitor and came close to winning the AAA Mega Championship. However, he crossed the line with that “stunt” involving Ric Flair. “Not in 2021, and not in my ring, pal.” Omega wrote.

    Andrade paid respect to Omega as well, but said he’s glad the champion took things personal Saturday night.

    It’s clear that Andrade still has sights on Omega’s AAA Mega Championship. Since both men are signed to All Elite Wrestling, there’s a good chance they will cross paths again in the future.

  • Tony Khan Reacts To AEW Rampage Debut

    Tony Khan Reacts To AEW Rampage Debut

    Tony Khan is quite pleased with how the debut episode of AEW Rampage unfolded.

    This past Friday night (Aug. 13), the first-ever Rampage event took place inside the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, Pennslyvania. Rampage got off to a hot start when Christian Cage defeated Kenny Omega to capture the Impact Wrestling World Title. We then saw Fuego Del Sol fail to capture the TNT Title from Miro. Despite the loss, Del Sol was given a contract with AEW.

    Headlining the card was an AEW Women’s World Title match. Champion Britt Baker put her gold on the line against Red Velvet. Baker won the match via Lockjaw. After the match, Kris Statlander attempted to thwart Britt’s post-match attack on Velvet. Statlander ended up being ambushed by Jamie Hayter, who is now All Elite.

    Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Khan expressed joy in how AEW was able to pull off the first Rampage show.

    “This was one of the biggest nights in the history of the company, and it was a great show. We went in with a tremendous card of three championship matches and a plan to deliver the best one-hour wrestling TV show anyone’s seen in a very long time. We needed to hit a home run, and we did. Everyone across the board, including production and staff, did a tremendous job.”

    Tony Khan also hyped up the Aug. 20 edition of Rampage and seemingly dropped another CM Punk hint.

    “We highlighted our people, and that led to great moments. Tonight was all about showing fans the top stars of AEW, ones that are becoming mainstream names in wrestling and even outside of it, too. This is the perfect time to launch Rampage, and I wanted to go in as hot as possible.

    “Next week’s Rampage is ‘The First Dance’, and I think everyone knows what to expect—and everyone is very excited. We built a foundation here for what you’re going to see next week. This was a huge premiere, and there is tons of anticipation for next week in Chicago.”

    Did you like the debut episode of AEW Rampage?

  • Kenny Omega Reacts To Title Loss On Rampage Premiere

    Kenny Omega Reacts To Title Loss On Rampage Premiere

    Kenny Omega suffered a big loss at the premiere episode of Rampage where Christian Cage beat him for the Impact Wrestling world title in the opening bout of the night.

    The now-former Impact champion took on his Twitter after the show to react to the loss. He made a tweet on his way to the airport, claiming that he feels cheated and disrespected after tonight’s events:

    “Not a cheerful ride to the airport. Baggage is light and I feel so cheated and disrespected. You’re all on notice. I’m taking this personally.”

    Kenny Omega defended the Impact world title against Christian in the opening match of the premiere episode of Rampage. The match saw both the competitors pulling some impressive offense.

    Towards the ending of the bout, Don Callis came up on the apron. He distracted the referee, allowing Omega to hit a low blow on his opponent.

    The Young Bucks then came out and slide a chair in the ring for Omega to finish the job. However, Christian countered Kenny’s attempt of a one winged angel.

    The former WWE star hit Kenny Omega with a kill switch instead. As the referee brought his attention back to the match, Christian pinned Omega to become the new Impact world champion.

  • DDP Believes AEW Has Become ‘Real Competition For WWE’

    DDP Believes AEW Has Become ‘Real Competition For WWE’

    AEW has been growing steadily since its launch in 2019. The company even managed to survive and grow during the pandemic era and DDP believes it has finally risen to a level where it can be considered competition for WWE.

    The WWE Hall Of Famer recently had an interview with Foundation Radio. He talked about the growth of the company and claimed that it now looks like AEW is not just another wrestling organization:

    “All of a sudden, it looks like AEW is not just another wrestling organization,” said DDP, “They have risen to the level of like real competition for WWE and I never thought that would be possible again.”

    “Real Competition”

    The former WCW champion then talked about the company’s ticket sales. He mentioned how AEW sold tickets for their Chicago shows very fast. He compared the ticket sales for Rampage to WWE’s shows:

    “I know they just sold tickets for Chicago, and it was a number of shows like three nights in a row.” mentioned DDP, “They all sold out. I would say it’s about ten, eleven thousand people, and then they got the United Center.

    They’re doing a new show now. I think it’s called Rampage. They sold out the United Center in 30 minutes. You can’t tell me they ain’t the real deal. WWE’s tickets aren’t selling like that.”

    Apart from this, DDP also offered praise to AEW President Tony Khan calling him ‘the most amazing cat.’ He claimed that you’d never know he is a billionaire by seeing him because he acts like a regular dude.

    DDP On His Love For Darby Allin: “He’s a Bigger Risk-Taker Than Jeff Hardy”
  • Jamie Hayter Returns To AEW, Aligns With Britt Baker

    Jamie Hayter Returns To AEW, Aligns With Britt Baker

    Jamie Hayter has made her way back to AEW and she is joining forces with Britt Baker.

    In the main event of the debut edition of Rampage, Baker defended her AEW Women’s World Championship against Red Velvet. Baker fought through a wrist injury in order to defeat the challenger. To do so, “D.M.D.” had to use her uninjured hand to secure Lockjaw for the tap.

    After the match, Britt attempted to add insult to injury. She went to Curb Stomp Velvet’s head onto her title but Kris Stantlander initially thwarted Baker’s attack. This didn’t last, however, as Hayter rushed the ring and attacked Statlander. Ultimately, Baker was able to Curb Stomp Velvet into the championship gold.

    Watch Hayter’s AEW return below.

    AEW announced that Jamie Hayter is All Elite, which means she’s signed a full-time contract with the promotion.

    https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1426380556548325378

    Jamie Hayter had made some appearances for AEW prior. Her close friend and fellow former Stardom wrestler, Bea Priestley, was released as she simply couldn’t get into the United States to compete due to global restrictions. Many believe this is why Hayter hasn’t worked with AEW more regularly.

    What’s interesting about Hayter’s return is that the last time she competed in a singles match on AEW television, it was inside the same venue as her appearance on Rampage. She competed inside the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her opponent was none other than Britt Baker.

    https://twitter.com/williamrbr/status/1426384373759156228?s=21

    To make things even more intriguing, Baker seemingly teased this alliance with Hayter all the way back in April.

  • Fuego Del Sol Earns AEW Contract Despite Losing To Miro

    Fuego Del Sol Earns AEW Contract Despite Losing To Miro

    Fuego Del Sol is All Elite.

    Del Sol challenged Miro for the AEW TNT Championship on the debut episode of Rampage. The stipulation was that not only was the gold on the line, but Del Sol would earn an AEW contract with a victory. Despite a red hot start, Del Sol failed to vanquish Miro.

    After the match, Miro ripped up what would’ve been Del Sol’s contract. Luckily for the masked luchador, the story doesn’t end here.

    Once Rampage returned from a commercial break, Del Sol stood in the ring and received a standing ovation. Sammy Guevara made his way out and he was handed a contract by Tony Khan.

    Guevara then entered the ring to inform Del Sol that he is the latest addition to the AEW roster.

    “Fuego, Fuego man you lost but sometimes there’s victory in defeat. I mean, you’ve been coming here for the past year, you’re like 1-50 but who cares cause these people love you. And Fuego, whether you know it a lot of guys love you back there too. Tony Khan thought it was only right for me to be the one to come out here, since you’re my best friend, to say officially Fuego Del Sol is All Elite.”

    The debut episode of Rampage opened up with an Impact World Title match. Kenny Omega put his gold on the line against Christian Cage. Cage turned the tables on Omega, who tried to plant him with the One-Winged Angel on a chair. Cage reversed and nailed Omega with a Killswitch on the chair to capture the Impact World Title.

    What do you make of Fuego Del Sol being All Elite?

  • Riho’s Absence From AEW TV Explained

    Riho’s Absence From AEW TV Explained

    Former AEW Women’s Champion Riho is expected to return to AEW television soon.

    Many have wondered why Riho hasn’t been seen in action for over a month. Her last appearance took place on the July 7 edition of AEW Dark: Elevation. Riho picked up a victory over Amber Nova.

    Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that Riho has a bad reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine. The good news is that she has been feeling better and is looking to return to the ring soon. An exact timeframe wasn’t revealed.

    Riho decided to make the full-time jump from Stardom to AEW. Stardom reportedly wanted to sign her full-time but AEW got the jump on it first. She was reportedly in the process of moving from Japan to the United States.

    Back in Oct. 2019, Riho became the inaugural AEW Women’s World Champion. She held on to that title for 133 days before losing it to Nyla Rose. Her last high-profile match took place back in May at Double or Nothing. She challenged Serena Debb for the NWA Women’s Title. Riho was submitted in the title match.

    Who would you like to see Riho feud with upon her return to AEW TV?

  • CM Punk Thinks Pro Wrestling “Really Needs A Kick In The D***”

    CM Punk Thinks Pro Wrestling “Really Needs A Kick In The D***”

    CM Punk is busy doing media rounds to promote the debut of Heels on Starz. He was recently interviewed by TV Insider and was asked his thoughts on the current state of pro-wrestling. According to Punk, the industry could use a shakeup, of sorts.

    When asked about the current state of wrestling, Punk said he much prefers content from past genreations.

    “I think it’s partly unfortunate that WWE owns the super good libraries in pro wrestling,” said Punk. “I think that stuff is classic and they don’t even put it on their network. They are sitting on it. I want to watch Austin Idol versus Jerry Lawler in Memphis.”

    There’s Nothing Better

    Punk would continue to talk about what wrestling needs right now. He would say that he believes there are people out there stirring the pot.

    “I do think the landscape of pro wrestling in general really needs a kick in the d***. I think we are about there. I think there are people out there stirring the pot and causing trouble in a good way. It’s a fun world. There is nothing like it. Pro wrestling gets crapped on by a number of people. But when it’s done on a high level and it’s really good, there is nothing better.”

    CM Punk’s return to pro-wrestling could only be a week away. He is speculated to return next Friday night when AEW presents The First Dance live from Chicago’s United Center.

    CM Punk Reveals Whether Or Not He Follows Current WWE Product
  • Hangman Page Taking Time Off For Birth Of Child

    Hangman Page Taking Time Off For Birth Of Child

    Adam “Hangman” Page is due to become a father and will be taking some time away from AEW as a result. According to a report from PW Insider, this is the reason why Page is not facing Kenny Omega for the World Championship at All Out and why he was recently taken out by the Elite on AEW Dynamite.

    “PWInsider.com is told that the plan was always for (Page) to take time off for family time in advance of his first child being born,” wrote Mike Johnson.

    Page had a chance to earn an AEW World Championship match at Fight for the Fallen recently. Page teamed with the Dark Order and faced the Elite in a 10-man elimination tag-team match. If Page and the Dark Order won, Page would receive a world title shot and the Dark Order would get a shot at the tag belts. The Elite won the match, however, knocking Page out of title contention.

    It was announced this week on Dynamite that Omega will defend his title against Christian Cage at All Out. Additionally, Omega will defend the Impact World Championship against Cage tonight on Rampage.

    “Hey, we got a baby on the way! we’re excited, terrified, but mostly overjoyed. thank you,” Page posted to Instagram in early June to announce the news.

    Page has wrestled 12 singles matches in AEW so far in 2021. He holds an 11-1 record. His only loss was to Brian Cage, who he then defeated at Double or Nothing.

  • Preview For Tonight’s AEW Rampage Series Premiere

    Preview For Tonight’s AEW Rampage Series Premiere

    AEW Rampage premieres tonight on TNT at 10pm (Eastern). It’s the second weekly cable TV show from All Elite Wrestling.

    The debut episode of AEW Rampage will take place from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the Petersen Events Center.

    In an effort to establish Rampage as a must-watch show right out the gate, we have three championship matches signed for the broadcast.

    The first match on the first episode of AEW Rampage will see Kenny Omega defending the Impact World Championship against Christian Cage. This will be the first time in history that the Impact World title is defending on AEW programming.

    Christian is also scheduled to battle Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship at the upcoming AEW All Out pay-per-view.

    TNT Champion Miro will put his title on the line against Fuego Del Sol. In addition to his title shot against Miro, FDS will be awarded an AEW contract if he’s victorious over The Redeemer.

    Image

    Finally, Dr. Britt Baker will battle Red Velvet in the main event of the first AEW Rampage. Britt Baker typically portrays a villain in AEW. However, she received a hero’s welcome at Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite from Pittsburgh.

    It’s sure to be an eventful show for AEW fans. A new chapter begins tonight, just one week away from AEW Rampage: The First Dance from Chicago, IL.

    AEW “First Dance” In Chicago Sells Out
  • Gable Steveson Responds To Challenge From Jake Hager

    Gable Steveson Responds To Challenge From Jake Hager

    Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson recently responded to some comments from AEW’s Jake Hager on Twitter. Hager put out a Tweet saying he’d bet $20K that Steveson couldn’t take him down. Steveson eventually responded that he has never heard of Hager.

    https://twitter.com/GableSteveson/status/1425952917761269763
    https://twitter.com/GableSteveson/status/1425962793212207108

    Jake Hager was recently angling for a fight with Fedor Emelianenko. Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett spoke out about this, saying Hager was not good enough to be lobbying for such a fight.

    Gable Steveson On WWE Ambitions

    In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Steveson spoke about his WWE ambitions.

    “If I ever go to WWE, I’d be a ‘Paul Heyman Guy,’ ” said Steveson. “Heyman is a legend. We’d be two people doing great things, and that would be a tough team to beat.”

    “And I’ve known Brock since I was in high school. He’s been there for me for a long time, making sure I do things the right way and put my best foot forward.”

    “So many great organizations and teams have reached out. A scout from the Bills, there is a connection with the Ravens. The Olympic gold medal is helping me see the world, so my next step is going to be a big decision. I’m going to decompress now and think about it.”

  • Ric Flair Expected To Sign With AEW

    Ric Flair Expected To Sign With AEW

    Wrestling legend Ric Flair is considered to be “a lock” to be joining AEW, according to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

    “While nothing has been announced, the word going around is that it seems to be a lock Ric Flair will be headed here when he is legally able,” wrote Meltzer.

    On a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, it was also mentioned that Flair and Tony Khan are long-time friends.

    “Ric had a great contract with WWE, it was exceptional. Ric Flair is also friends with Tony Khan, I mean they’ve been friends for years.”

    – Dave Meltzer

    Khan was a guest when Ric Flair married Wendy Barlow in 2018 and the two have been photographed socializing several times over the past few years.

    Ric Flair: I Will Never Retire!

    Ric Flair was recently granted his release by WWE. He had previously expressed frustration with his creative direction (the Lacey Evans romance storyline) and also how his daughter Charlotte has been used in recent months.

    The Nature Boy spoke with People earlier this month about the departure.

    “We just didn’t see eye to eye on some business opportunities that I wanted to pursue, so I asked for my release,” Flair said. “There has been no animosity and everything has been on friendly terms.”

    “It was a mutually agreed-upon decision and I will be moving forward to pursue other exciting endeavors such as my own line of wine, my own network, as well as comic books,” he continued. “I had to make this decision personally for my business and my brand.”

    Visit f4wonline.com to subscribe to the Wrestling Observer.

  • Max Caster Sent To Sensitivity Training (Report)

    Max Caster Sent To Sensitivity Training (Report)

    After an episode of AEW Dark had to be pulled and re-edited due to controversial lyrics of a rap by Max Caster, the member of the Acclaimed has reportedly been sent to sensitivity training. The Acclaimed were also removed from the AEW top-5 tag-team rankings this week after having sat in the #2 position the week prior.

    “After what happened last week and the fallout, Max Caster has been sent to sensitivity training,” wrote Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter.

    Offensive Max Caster Rap Edited Out of AEW Dark

    The Acclaimed had a match taped on August 4th that was supposed to air on the August 10th Dark but didn’t.

    Anthony Bowens worked a singles match at Wednesday’s AEW TV tapings from Pittsburgh, PA. It will likely air on Dark next week. It’s worth noting that Bowens did not use the Acclaimed’s entrance music for the match.

    Tony Khan Addresses Max Caster’s Rap

    On Busted Open Radio recently, Tony Khan addressed what happened.

    “Last night on Dark, Max Caster’s rap was terrible. I was not out there in the moment when he did it, it was not during Dynamite,” Khan said. “I had not heard it until last night, truthfully. In the editing process, it should have been caught. We deleted the episode and re-posted it with that edited out but it shouldn’t have aired.” 

    “This would never have happened (on Dynamite) because Max’s raps, I have always gone over them with him,” he continued. “I don’t script or write wrestler’s promos, but the bullet points I give. In this case, it shouldn’t have happened and what will happen going forward is I will take over the editing of Dark and Elevation myself.”

    A transcript of Caster’s rap is below:

    “The Acclaimed kicking ass for miles, make you claim mental health like Simone Biles. The Sydals gonna pay the cost, I’m gonna treat those bitches like Duke lacrosse. The Blondes say they the best but those dudes are faker than a PCR test. And what’s that smell here in North Carolina, oh wait that’s Julia’s …”

  • DDP On His Love For Darby Allin: “He’s a Bigger Risk-Taker Than Jeff Hardy”

    DDP On His Love For Darby Allin: “He’s a Bigger Risk-Taker Than Jeff Hardy”

    There are not many wrestlers like Darby Allin. He has it all, from his persona, his in-ring skills, his ability to sell moves and build an underdog connection with the fans. This is a viewpoint shared by wrestling legend Diamond Dallas Page, who has developed a friendship with Allin.

    Talking on a recent episode of the It’s My House podcast, Diamond Dallas Page had plenty of say about Darby and his future in wrestling.

    DDP holds a very special place in the wrestling community. He has worked with many different promotions and has literally saved the lives of fellow wrestlers with his DDP Yoga lifestyle. He leads a very strict and healthy lifestyle, and that is something he and Darby Allin share. Albeit if via different methodologies.

    “I love Darby. He’s a great kid, he’ll call me up if he’s coming into town.”

    Page wasted no words in showing his appreciation for Darby as a technician and a hard-working athlete. “Darby is someone who puts the work in and does everything he can to reverse the risk-taking that he does,” said DDP. “But, he doesn’t even need to do that s*it anymore. He could do a coffin drop here and there, he could do like one or two high spots a match. Because Darby really knows how to wrestle, Darby knows how to sell. And the people love him!”

    DDP Understands the Jeff Hardy Comparisons

    Any fan of professional wrestling will always make comparisons between wrestlers. Especially wrestlers that have that special something about their character. There has been no shortage of comparisons between Darby Allin and the charismatic enigma Jeff Hardy. Comparisons that DDP understands. However, he also spots one core difference between them.

    “He’s a bigger risk taker than Jeff Hardy, and that says something. The difference between [the] two is one is straight edge and one’s not.”

    DDP went on to discuss the career of Jeff Hardy and how remarkable it had been. “I think Jeff Hardy is just an unbelievable athlete. I don’t know how he’s still being able to do the s*it he’s able to do. But, he’s still in his 40s. And you really don’t feel this s*it until you start getting in your 50s, and when you get in your 60s. That’s when you feel your shoulders, your knees, your back, your neck.”

    Darby Allin is an exciting prospect and has the entire wrestling world ahead of him. With the likes of Diamond Dallas Page and Sting in his corner, there is no end to what he can achieve in this business.

  • Bronson Reed Calls Out AEW TNT Champion Miro

    Bronson Reed Calls Out AEW TNT Champion Miro

    Former NXT star Bronson Reed (Jonah Rock) has called out AEW TNT Champion Miro.

    Reed was a part of a slew of NXT roster cuts. The list included Reed, Bobby Fish, Mercedes Martinez, Leon Ruff, Tyler Rust, Jake Atlas, and others. For many, Reed was the most shocking name on that list. After all, he was called upon to work some dark matches before an episode of SmackDown and the belief was that he’d make his main roster debut soon.

    Now that he is no longer a part of the WWE, Reed is turning his attention to other promotions. It’s quite clear that he has at least one man in mind to pick a fight with. Here’s the message Reed sent out on Twitter.

    https://twitter.com/bronsonreedwwe/status/1425638618350108672

    Fans on social

    Miro has held the TNT Championship since May 12. He ended the 186-day reign of Darby Allin. On the debut episode of AEW Rampage, Miro will put the gold on the line against Fuego Del Sol.

    Recently-released NXT stars have 30-day non-compete clauses, so Bronson Reed could show up in AEW within a matter of weeks.

    Time will tell when Reed will be able to showcase his talents in another promotion.

  • Kiera Hogan Makes Surprise Debut at AEW Dark Elevation Taping

    Kiera Hogan Makes Surprise Debut at AEW Dark Elevation Taping

    There has been a lot of movement in the wrestling world this year. Every week seems to bring a new debut in one show or another. One of the quieter ones was recorded this week and will air on the next episode of AEW Dark Elevation.

    Kiera Hogan, the former two-time IMPACT Knockouts tag team champion took on former AEW Women’s champion Hikaru Shida.

    Image
    Kiera Hogan’s AEW debut (Pittsburgh, PA, 8/11/21)

    Kiera Hogan was wrestling on Impact as recently as last week where she was attacked and left behind by her Fire ‘N Flava partner Tasha Steelz. The AEW women’s division is well-populated right now, and get most of their coverage on the Dark shows. However, with Kenny Omega having recently spoken about his desire to push women’s wrestling even more on Rampage, the addition of a wrestler like Kiera Hogan makes sense.

    Hogan is a tag team wrestler, and with talk of a women’s tag team title being introduced at some point down the road, you have to think that if Kiera Hogan earns a contract, she would have her eyes on that gold.

    Kiera Hogan Looking to Bounce Right Back into the Ring

    Nobody was expecting Kiera Hogan to announce her departure from IMPACT wrestling. While her appearance should not be a surprise given her talent, it adds to the mystery of her departure. IMPACT has an open relationship with AEW. While there has been recent criticism of how the Forbidden Door seems less open to female wrestlers, it still doesn’t really explain why Hogan left the promotion.

    In any case, she has wasted no time in getting back into the ring and keeping herself in match shape.

    Kiera Hogan is a difficult fighter to face in the ring. She is talented and athletic, standing just 4’11’’ which makes her an interesting fighter to have to deal with.

  • Tony Khan – “TNT Is So Happy With How Rampage Is Tracking Already”

    Tony Khan – “TNT Is So Happy With How Rampage Is Tracking Already”

    AEW President Tony Khan recently appeared on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio in his now permanent slot. The owner of All Elite discussed several topics during his latest appearance, including AEW Rampage which debuts on Friday night.

    “TNT is so happy with how Rampage is tracking already” Tony Khan began. “I think they think it’s going to be a huge hit. There’s definitely a lot of interest and we owe the people at TNT.”

    “They could not have rolled out the red carpet anymore for us” Khan continued, praising AEW’s network. “They have so much in terms of promoting the show. There’s been ads all over the place.”

    “I watched Seinfeld on TBS last night when I checked into the hotel in Pittsburgh. Every time it went to break, there were Rampage commercials, which is great” Khan added.

    Tony Khan on TNT Network

    “So it’s on all kinds of shows, including other wrestling shows. And I really, really am happy that they’re promoting it… Really, I think with two shows it’s going to provide more opportunities, more upward mobility” Khan noted, alluding to the huge roster that All Elite now has.

    “But it’s still going to be a star-driven show, Rampage, just like Dynamite is a star-driven show. And I think what Elevation and Dark have given us the ability to do is develop stars and get them TV ready. Now there’s more TV real estate for everyone to work towards getting in there and fighting for” the AEW President concluded.

    AEW confirmed several matches for Rampage this Friday on this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite. Here’s the full confirmed card for the debut show on Friday 13th:

    • IMPACT World Championship – Kenny Omega (c) vs Christian Cage
    • AEW Women’s Championship – Dr Britt Baker D.M.D (c) vs Red Velvet
    • TNT Championship – Miro (c) vs Fuego Del Sol