SEScoops

Category: AEW

  • Update On Ricky Starks And His Relationship With AEW

    Update On Ricky Starks And His Relationship With AEW

    Where has Ricky Starks been on AEW? “Absolute” is completely cleared to wrestle but one of the company’s biggest stars on the rise has been nowhere to be seen since being hurt months back on AEW Collision.

    Starks took a nasty DDT during Tag Title Tournament match on Collision. He ended up taking a full three count, allowing Top Flight to advance. Reports were that Starks and his partner Big Bill were supposed to advance. However, the potential injury to Ricky prompted an immediate audible.

    Of all things, Reddit conjured up the discussion of Starks, and Fightful decided to look into the situation. Some of their AEW sources claim that Starks turned down pitches to be on television. A different source said that the only pitch Starks turned down was breaking up with Big Bill. The plan was to turn Bill full heel and Starks babyface, but Starks reportedly believed a contentious break-up wouldn’t benefit either. Starks reportedly wasn’t particularly happy with the lack of follow-up to his memorable match with Bryan Danielson.

    There was also speculation that Starks wasn’t allowed in Calgary due to legal matters, but those rumors have been dispelled. Starks is not in the men’s bracket of The Owen Hart Cup after winning the tournament in 2023. Ricky defeated CM Punk in the finals of the tournament last year.

    Regarding Starks’ interest in WWE, Fightful states there is a contingency in AEW who believe WWE is a goal. That notion makes complete sense considering that he’s close friends with Cody Rhodes, Jade Cargill and CM Punk. It was actually Rhodes who brought Starks into the AEW fold. Starks was one of the names during COVID to challenge ‘The American Nightmare’ for the TNT Championship.

  • Penta El Zero Miedo Addresses AEW Status & WWE Interest

    Penta El Zero Miedo Addresses AEW Status & WWE Interest

    Penta El Zero Miedo has an AEW contract reported expire this summer, but would The Lucha Brother go to WWE?

    Lucha Libre Online reported this month that Penta’s current AEW deal is done sometime in August or September and that WWE is interested in scooping the luchador up.

    Penta was a guest on COMIENDO CARNITAS, and addressed the matter, stating that the WWE interest was only a rumor. Miedo confirmed that his contract did indeed end in August or September (noting his agent had to remind him). Penta makes clear that AEW is currently where his alliegance stands and prefers to focus on the present.

    “There isn’t anything tangible. If there was to be anything tangible, we would need to evaluate it, check what is more convenient both financially and in-ring. Someone told me that it was like playing for Barcelona while you should play for Real Madrid. I can see that perspective, but I am not that young and it would be my last big contract.”

    Penta makes clear he has no problems with either company and was asked if he’d be interested in going to WWE.

    “It would be a good episode in my career, but I do not like to fantasy book. If it happens, it happens. I am focused on AEW and I am happy where I am at right now. Of course there is some complaints like more focus on the projection and rivalries, like it happens with every wrestler and company.”

    Penta signed with AEW back in 2019 wrestled on AEW television earlier this month against The Butcher, but hasn’t been in a prominent television storyline in quite some time. 

    H/t to Fightful for the transcription.

    RELATED: Penta El Zero Miedo & Rey Fenix Present: Hit the Lights Lucha Libra Show For 6/1 At The Temple

  • Kayla Braxton Denies AEW Rumor During Her Final Week With WWE

    Kayla Braxton Denies AEW Rumor During Her Final Week With WWE

    On June 22nd, WWE interviewer and on-air talent Kayla Braxton (real name Kayla Becker) announced her departure from the Stamford promotion after an 8-year tenure with the company. Quicky, rumors began to swirl about the future for the 33-year-old. Unsurprisingly, this included predictions that Becker may look to continue a career in the professional wrestling industry and potentially join another promotion.

    If you were one of the many fans hoping to see Becker display her elite skills on someone else’s show, well, in the words of SmackDown commentator Wade Barrett, we have some “Bad News!”

    On Monday morning, Becker took to social media to set the record straight. In a post on X, Becker bluntly stated that she wouldn’t be leaving “the largest wrestling company in the world” if she wanted to stay within the industry. 

    Becker signed with WWE in 2016 and started as a ring announcer in NXT. She would soon find herself on the main roster, working as a backstage interviewer, talk show host, and pre-show panelist. In recent years, Becker has become the lead backstage interviewer for the blue brand, with her humorous interactions with Paul Heyman have become a favorite among the WWE Universe.

    In a lengthy social media post, Becker thanked the linked of Michael Cole, Triple H, and Nick Khan for all the opportunities she had been afforded during her time with the company. As of this writing, her final scheduled date with WWE will be on Friday, June 28th edition of SmackDown, which is set to take place in Madison Square Garden.

    In playful banter on X, AEW on-air talent RJ City jokingly replied “Thank God” to Becker’s post about not joining another promotion. Becker would slap back by saying, “What I meant to say, was I wouldn’t leave to go be within 10 feet of this creep .@RJCity1”. The “war” between WWE and AEW has truly never been more intense! 

    SEScoops wishes Kayla Braxton (Kayla Becker) a big congratulations on an incredible run with WWE. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

  • Tony Khan Previews Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door

    Tony Khan Previews Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door

    All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling collaborative pay-per-view event is fast approaching with an exciting card. AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door will occur at the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, on June 30.

     So far, the card has eight matches announced, including five championships set to be defended. One of the matchups that the PPV has been built towards is AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm defending her title against Mina Shirakawa. 

    The feud has been building for several months, with both competing over the attention of Mariah May. The matchup would become official when Storm and Shirakawa signed their contracts on the June 19 episode of AEW Dynamite. Both superstars are expected to be at their best, as they hope to walk away as the AEW Women’s Champion and have May at their side. 

    Related: Mariah May, Toni Storm Storyline Inspired By ‘All About Eve’?

    Tony Khan On Storyline Between Toni Storm, Mina Shirakawa & Mariah May

    AEW President Tony Khan spoke with Bleacher Report’s Doc-Chris Muller to give his insight on the storyline heading into the women’s title match. Khan praised all three superstars for how they have generated intrigue from fans, particularly the growth of Storm and May in AEW. 

    “…It’s a storyline that I put together based on things Toni Storm has done since becoming ‘Timeless,’ and the integration of Mariah May, and it’s a fascinating dynamic between Toni and Mariah, and I think it’s some of the most captivating on AEW television week in and week out and it’s been fascinating to watch Mariah progress since she came in,” said Khan. 

    Khan spoke highly of May and how she embraced her character of idolizing Storm since joining AEW. He also credited RJ City for helping him craft the storyline and believes Shirakawa could be a regular on the AEW roster. 

    “…Mina has become a major part of AEW in recent weeks and I think she’s somebody that can be here on a regular basis. Somebody that can represent us as the AEW Women’s World Champion and Mina has a lot of history with Mariah, and Toni has a ton of history now with Mariah that has been built in this past year, and I felt like this dynamic would work so well, and everybody’s been great,” said Khan.

    Related: Tony Khan On Shane McMahon’s AEW Interest: ‘I’ve Never Met Or Spoke With Him’

    Tony Khan Previews Toni Storm vs. Mina Shirakawa At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door

    The AEW President praised all three performers and believes the women’s title match could be great. He didn’t share who he thought would be victorious but hinted that the storyline could conclude at the PPV. 

    “…All three of them, Toni, Mariah, and Mina, are fantastic wrestlers, and it’s going to pay off at Forbidden Door in a fantastic match when Toni Storm fights Mina Shirakawa for the AEW Women’s World Championship and also possibly for the respect and affection of Mariah May, and I cannot wait for the match,” said Khan.

    Khan added that he loved working with them to create the storyline and how well everyone has performed. It seems likely that Storm will retain her championship, but fans will be interested to see if the results will make May choose who she’d rather be with. Fans must tune in at AEW x NJPW to know how the storyline will unfold. 

    Related: Mercedes Mone Confronts Stephanie Vaquer Ahead of Forbidden Door Showdown

  • Update On Darby Allin’s Absence After AEW Double Or Nothing 2024

    Update On Darby Allin’s Absence After AEW Double Or Nothing 2024

    All Elite Wrestling superstar Darby Allin is taking some time off after a rough few months. His last match was teaming in a loss with FTR (Cash Wheeler & Dax Harwood) and Bryan Danielson against The Elite (Jack Perry, Kazuchika Okada, Matthew Jackson & Nicholas Jackson) at AEW Double Or Nothing on May 26. Since the brutal Anarchy In the Arena Match, Allin has not been on TV. A new report has shared an update on his absence.

    Fightful Select has reported that AEW has given Allin time off to heal from his injuries, including a broken nose. It’s unclear when he may return, but the company is ensuring the AEW superstar has enough time to recover.

    Darby Allin’s Eventful Year

    The first half of 2024 has been a very eventful time for the former TNT Champion. He started the year off strong alongside Sting, as they quickly became title contenders in the tag team division. The fan-favorite duo eventually became champions and successfully defended themselves against The Young Bucks (Matthew & Nicholas) at AEW Revolution on March 3. Although he found success early in the year, injuries took a toll on Allin’s body.

    In the brutal tag team match against The Young Bucks, Allin had a spot where he launched himself off a ladder from inside the ring to the ringside on a pane of glass. The dangerous move resulted in Allin’s back being cut up and needing stitches. After relinquishing the titles due to Sting’s retirement, Allin would then take some time off with hopes of climbing Mount Everest.

    Darby Allin’s Injuries Continue To Take Its Toll

    AEW put him against Jay White for a loss on the March 13 episode of AEW Dynamite to take him off TV. Unfortunately, Allin suffered a broken foot in the matchup that caused the daredevil performer to be inactive and ruined his hopes of traveling up Mount Everest. Allin’s injuries woes continued the following month when he was hit by a bus, resulting in a broken nose. 

    Allin returned to action earlier than expected to compete at AEW Double Or Nothing, as a replacement for the injured Eddie Kingston. In the match, fans noticed he was wearing a face mask and had not recovered fully from his injuries. That said, it didn’t prevent him from dangerous moments, including being Superkicked in the face while suspended above the ring by The Young Bucks.

    The proper time away from wrestling is necessary for Allin to recover from his issues. Hopefully, he can be at full strength soon and plot revenge on The Elite for his last defeat at AEW Double or Nothing.

  • AEW’s Taz Has “ZERO” Interest In Having One Last Match, Happy With How Things Are

    Wrestling returning to action after lengthy hiatus’ may have grown increasingly common as of late, but don’t expect Taz to step back in the ring. 

    In recent years, fans have seen the in-ring return of the likes of Bryan Danielson, Adam Copeland, and Saraya, all of whom were told at one point or another that their careers in the ring were over. Ric Flair also returned to the ring for his final match in 2022 though his tag-team match in Nashville was not well-received by fans. 

    With stars from the past returning to the ring, it’s hardly a surprise that fans are wondering whether Taz could have one final bout left in him. When the AEW commentator was asked though, the Human Suplex Machine made it clear he won’t be wrestling. 

    Though Taz won’t be donning his singlet for AEW, he has gotten physical in All Elite Wrestling in the past. During the April 17, 2024, edition of AEW Dynamite, Chris Jericho attacked his fellow ECW alum as part of Jericho’s feud with Taz’s son HOOK. 

    While Taz won’t wrestle for AEW, the veteran forged an impressive career in the ring. The two-time ECW World and Television Champion also held gold in WWE and competed at several major events. These days, Taz can be found commentating for AEW as his legacy in wrestling continues to grow, this time behind the commentary table. 

  • Christian Cage: ‘I’m Not Sorry For Dead Father Comments, It’s Allowed Me To Stand Out’

    Christan Cage won’t stop speaking his mind on AEW programming, especially when it comes to bringing up the deceased parents of others on the roster. 

    Since turning heel in June 2022, Cage has transformed into a loathsome individual in AEW who often shocks fans with his promos. One of Cage’s most cutting lines sees him bring up an opponent’s deceased father. Those subject to this particular line from Cage include Jack Perry, Brian Pillman Jr. (now Lexis King), Wardlow, and Nick Wayne.

    On a recent edition of the Insight podcast, Cage spoke about his promos in AEW. When asked if he can believe the stuff he’s allowed to say, Cage revealed that he doesn’t consult with AEW management before he grabs the mic. 

    “I’ve never told anybody what I’m going to say. I’ve never had it cleared with anybody. I’ve never asked anybody. I just go out there and do it. It’s one of those things.

    Addressing his dead father comments, Cage reflected on how this line of attack has allowed him the chance to stick out on AEW’s massive roster.

    “You have to be willing to go places others are unwilling to go to stand out, especially in this day and age. I saw an opportunity that I could jump on and I took it and I wrote it. Sometimes things happen and you’re not expecting to happen. I said one phrase and it turned into a wildfire and I just embraced it and ran with it. 

    When asked if he felt any remorse, Cage made it clear he would not apologize for anything he’s said. With that in mind, fans of AEW can expect plenty more shocking comments, many about parents, to come from the Canadian veteran. 

  • Brian Cage Isn’t Planning On Leaving AEW Anytime Soon After Confirming Length Of Current Deal

    Brian Cage re-signed with AEW over a year ago and the length of ‘The Swole-verine’s’ deal is pretty swole.

    ‘The Machine’ has been running with The Gates of Agony as The Mogul Embassy recently turned on AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland, but no matter what the future holds for the group, who just added Hechicero on AEW Rampage, Cage is completely content with sticking around All Elite Wrestling.

    Speaking on “The Lightweights Podcast,” the former FTW Champion expressed just that about his current deal.

    “I don’t see myself going anywhere else. With how long I’ve been there and how long my contract is for and everything else, it makes sense to stay put and I’m happy with that.”

    When Cage was asked if his deal was about six more years, Cage said it was and he didn’t negotiate it alone. ‘The Machine’ had an agent to help nail down a deal for him. That was a first for Cage as he flew solo when negotiating his first few name deals in wrestling.

    Cage has been with AEW for years at this point, first aligning himself with the now defunct Team Taz and has primarily remained a heel for the majority of his run.

    While Cage is locked down by AEW, some names have been floating around as free agents recently. Arn Anderson, Mark Henry and Jake Hager all just announced their exit from AEW, but one major name to leave WWE is Becky Lynch. While it’s expected that Becky will stick around WWE after an extended leave, AEW could front the kind of contract Cage has in an effort to secure ‘The Man’ comes around AEW.

    H/t to Fightful for the transcription.

  • Will Ospreay, Swerve & DVD’s Top AEW Merchandise For May 2024

    Will Ospreay, Swerve & DVD’s Top AEW Merchandise For May 2024

    In May 2024, ShopAEW saw strong sales across various categories, with Double or Nothing capping off the month to give them a new boost of momentum. The month’s top merchandise sellers reflects who is on top in the fans’ eyes. 

    Wrestlenomics reports that AEW branded merchandise led the way with the highest number of items in the top ten daily rankings. Will Ospreay followed, showing significant sales. 

    Top-Selling AEW Merchandise for May 2024

    Top Superstars:

    • AEW
    • Will Ospreay
    • ROH
    • Swerve Strickland
    • Adam Copeland
    • Kenny Omega
    • Young Bucks
    • Mercedes Moné
    • Toni Storm
    • Jack Perry

    In terms of individual items, two Blu-ray disc releases top the list. The AEW WrestleDream October 1, 2023 Blu-ray Disc stayed in the top ten for 19 days. The AEW ALL IN LONDON August 27, 2023 Blu-ray 2-Disc Set performed well, remaining in the top ten for 18 days. 

    Will Ospreay’s “The Feeling” also saw consistent sales, along with the pre-order for the ROH Final Battle 2023 DVD 2-Disc Set. The ROH Final Battle 2022 DVD 2-Disc Set maintained a strong presence in the rankings.

    Best-Selling Items:

    • AEW WrestleDream October 1, 2023 Blu-ray Disc
    • AEW ALL IN LONDON August 27, 2023 Blu-ray 2-Disc Set
    • Will Ospreay – The Feeling
    • Pre-Order: ROH Final Battle 2023 DVD 2-Disc Set
    • ROH Final Battle 2022 DVD 2-Disc Set
    • Limited Edition – Kenny Omega Vs King – Tekken 8 Series
    • Pre-Order: Matthew & Nicholas Jackson AEW Micro Brawler Tag Team 2-Pack
    • 2023 AEW Trading Cards (Blaster)
    • Nyla Rose – HER (All Royalties Will Go To Freedom Oklahoma’s 501c3)
    • Orange Cassidy Beaded Bracelet 3-Pack

  • Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda In “Good Talks” With AEW’s Will Ospreay

    Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda In “Good Talks” With AEW’s Will Ospreay

    Fans could be seeing much more of Will Ospreay in Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda as the two sides are said to be currently in positive talks. 

    SGW Uganda has become a hit online in recent months after notable names began sharing the promotion on social media. Ospreay, as well as TNA Wrestling’s Jordynne Grace, donated to a GoFundMe fundraiser aimed at providing a standard wrestling ring as well as other operating needs. 

    Ospreay has spoken in the past about wanting to compete for Soft Ground Wrestling Uganda and that could soon be the case. Responding to an article about the reigning AEW International Champion, the official SGW Uganda Twitter account confirmed that their promotion and Will Ospreay had been in talks. 

    What’s Next? 

    It’s possible that Ospreay will challenge for the newly-instated SGW Uganda Championship which was introduced earlier this year. The first-ever champion is Anoa who won the title in the finals of a tournament that saw him beat Tate Mayfairs

    Back in the United States, Ospreay has his sights set on capturing more gold in All Elite Wrestling. On the most recent edition of AEW Dynamite, Ospreay won a Casino Gauntlet Match to earn an AEW World Championship match at AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door. Ospreay has held the AEW International Title since Double or Nothing and barring a last-minute title change, he will challenge Swerve Strickland later this month in 

  • Top 10 Most Effective Brand Advertisers For WWE & AEW Television

    Top 10 Most Effective Brand Advertisers For WWE & AEW Television

    Pro wrestling is going through a booming period, and let’s take a look at some of the biggest players in their advertising game.

    EDO, a TV advertising analytics company, has profiled WWE and AEW, giving strong marks to both. Wrestling remains a major draw for TV advertisers due to its large, engaged audience.

    WWE’s Monday Night Raw, the longest-running weekly episodic program, will move to Netflix in January 2025. This transition signifies a major shift in the platform for WWE’s flagship show. Meanwhile, AEW has established itself as a strong competitor in the wrestling world. Its Dynamite show frequently tops cable ratings on Wednesday nights, demonstrating its popularity among viewers.

    WWE’s rise is thanks to Endeavor merging the company with the UFC and Vince McMahon departed from the company, leaving things to Triple H and Nick Khan’s vision. That momentum has been noticed all over.

    AEW’s ad effectiveness has seen notable growth, particularly on its Rampage program. Brands such as Bud Light and Crest have experienced increased engagement through their advertising on AEW shows.

    WWE’s programs, including Raw and SmackDown, also show significant ad engagement. Top advertisers like Credible and Purple have reported impressive results from their campaigns on these shows. Advertisers benefit from the high engagement rates of these programs, making them effective platforms for brand promotion.

    Top 10 AEW Advertisers

    Here are the top 10 most effective advertisers on AEW programming, among brands with 10 or more airings from April 2023 through March 2024:

    • Innovation Refunds (+284% more effective than the average AEW advertiser)
    • Just for Men (+201%)
    • Pampers (+195%)
    • Ferrero Rocher (+182%)
    • Bud Light (+169%)
    • Crest (+108%)
    • Miller Lite (+102%)
    • Schwarzkopf (+97%)
    • Applebee’s (+93%)
    • Diet Coke (+93%)

    Top 10 WWE Advertisers

    The top 10 most effective advertisers on WWE programming, among brands with 10 or more airings from April 2023 through March 2024, include:

    • Credible (+2,978% more effective than the average WWE advertiser)
    • Purple (+490%)
    • Dawn (+224%)
    • Depend (+215%)
    • Hot Pockets (+200%)
    • NyQuil (+194%)
    • Mattel (+190%)
    • Puffs (+180%)
    • Miller Lite (+177%)
    • Mr. Clean (+177%)

  • Toni Storm Makes Surprise STARDOM Appearance To Challenge Mina Shirakawa At Forbidden Door

    Toni Storm Makes Surprise STARDOM Appearance To Challenge Mina Shirakawa At Forbidden Door

    AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm recently issued a challenge to STARDOM wrestler Mina Shirakawa.

    Storm made an appearance during the June 2 STARDOM event through a video as she challenged the Japanese wrestler for the upcoming AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view later this month. Toni Storm was featured with, “STARDOM legend” Mariah May. She said that she had her eyes on Mina, who has made appearances in AEW in the past. She said:

    “Hello, STARDOM, this is your AEW Women’s World Champion and STARDOM legend ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm and this is my trusty protege and STARDOM legend, Ms. Mariah May. Mina-san, I see you’ve been at AEW when I’ve not been around but I’ve been watching you. Oh, I’ve been watching you.”

    Toni Storm said that wanted to square off against Mina Shirakawa and she wouldn’t have to knock or ring the doorbell as she has kept the forbidden door open. 

    “You do not need to knock, you do not need to ring the doorbell, because I have opened the forbidden door and I want you. Don’t worry, any friend of Mariah’s is a friend of mine. I just want to see what kind of woman you really are.”

    While Toni issued the challenge, Mariah didn’t seem to be impressed. Toni’s protege Mariah May has been closely linked with Mina and teamed up with her. They have even shared a kiss on AEW. The match hasn’t been made official yet but the relationship between Mariah and Mina might come into play during the match.   

    Toni Storm and Mariah May made STARDOM appearance in April

    In April, Storm showed up at the STARDOM American Dream event in Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena (better known as ECW Arena). During that appearance, she had given her flowers to Mariah May and said she was proud of her understudy. That night, she also had eyes on Mina Shirakawa and told her that “the Forbidden Door is always open.”

    Toni Storm is coming off a title defense against Serena Deeb at AEW Double Or Nothing. She is likely to face Mina Shirakawa at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden which is set to take place on June 30 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

  • MJF Shows Off Remarkable Physical Transformation

    MJF Shows Off Remarkable Physical Transformation

    Pro wrestlers rely on their bodies to make a living, and keeping in peak shape is a priority for a majority of them. MJF recently showed off his physical transformation, and it’s quite impressive. 

    MJF has worked hard to reach the top of the pro wrestling world. His impressive physique is the result of his dedication, but he didn’t achieve it alone.

    He recently posted a before-and-after photo on Instagram, showcasing his progress. In the post, he credited Adam Pfau, a personal fitness coach, for helping him achieve his current look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C7p6g5Euioz

    Double or Nothing Return & Nixed Plans

    MJF returned to AEW at Double or Nothing, ending his hiatus since losing the AEW World Title to Samoa Joe at Worlds End. During his return, he also revealed a new tattoo, signifying that he re-signed with AEW and bet on himself.

    Although MJF missed the Dynamite episode following Double or Nothing, he is set to appear on next week’s show. Fans are eager to see what the former AEW World Champion will say and who he will face next.

    Adam Cole’s injury forced AEW to alter plans for him and MJF. A match was planned for 2023 but did not happen. While the timing of their face-off remains unclear, Cole’s involvement in MJF’s return segment is promising.

  • Swerve Strickland Flexes His New AEW World Championship Grill

    Swerve Strickland is enjoying his time as AEW World Champion and recently showed off a new grill.

    Formerly known as Swerve Scott in WWE, he was released during the pandemic. By the time Triple H wanted him back, Swerve was already under contract with AEW and couldn’t enter talks. Tony Khan has taken good care of Strickland, and he is now sitting on top of the Land of All Elite.

    Swerve’s hard work has paid off, leading to his reign as AEW World Champion. He’s living it up and has plenty to be proud of.

    https://twitter.com/puroresuflow/status/1796941947052970101

    Strickland’s Next Title Defense

    Swerve Strickland will defend the AEW World Title against Roderick Strong on the June 5th episode of AEW Dynamite.

    The bout came together on the June 1st episode of AEW Collision, with Strong saying he was supposed to be the last man in the Casino Gauntlet on Wednesday’s AEW Dynamite. Strong suggested to Tony Khan that he should face Swerve for the championship on Dynamite. Tony Khan agreed that it was a good idea, giving him the title match.

    Roderick Strong has a message for Swerve Strickland, which he shared in a viral video after the June 1 AEW Collision broadcast.

    “SWERVE! Listen, I don’t care what you do when you drive. I care what you do in that ring. When I’m looking back through the history books, I’m 2-0 against you. So, you may be the AEW World Champion for now, but come Wednesday in Colorado, I will be your new AEW World Champion.”

    After defeating Lio Rush on June 1, 2024, AEW Collision, Strong appealed to Tony Khan for a match for the AEW World Title on the June 5 episode of AEW Dynamite. Now, Strong has the chance to win the most prestigious prize he has yet to challenge for in his AEW career. Obviously, Swerve Strickland is not ready to give up his title just yet.

  • Chris Jericho Replaced On AEW Rampage Commentary Team

    Chris Jericho has taken on many roles in AEW. He is a former World Champion, Wizard, and currently the Learning Tree. However, he is stepping down from his commentary duties. 

    AEW has named Jericho’s replacement: Matt Menard, Jericho’s former Jericho Appreciation Society teammate, will take over commentary on AEW Rampage.

    Author and podcast host Pat Laprade announced the news via X on Saturday. Menard has experience in commentary, having worked on AEW Dark and Dark Elevation. This led to occasional Rampage appearances when Jericho was unavailable.

    On Friday’s Rampage, Jericho revealed his decision to leave commentary. He wants to focus more on appearing on Dynamite and Collision. Jericho will still carry on in his Learning Tree gimmick alongside Big Bill and Bryan Keith. 

    Matt Menard’s Commentary Experience

    Menard, previously known as Matt Lee in WWE’s NXT brand, signed with AEW in August 2021 with his partner Angelo Parker. They joined forces with Daniel Garcia and eventually became part of Jericho’s faction. Together, they competed in the first-ever Anarchy in the Arena match and a Blood & Guts match in 2022.

    Since the faction dissolved, Menard has wrestled infrequently, with just six matches this year. His last match was a win over Mike Bennett in Ring of Honor in early May. Parker has been off following his recent marriage to Ruby Soho. Now, Menard has a spot on television every week, and he gets to stay out of action in the process. 

  • Swerve Strickland Next AEW World Title Defense Announced

    Swerve Strickland Next AEW World Title Defense Announced

    Swerve Strickland is set to put his AEW World Championship on the line against Roderick Strong on this week’s AEW Dynamite.

    Strong dropped the AEW International Championship against Will Ospreay at last weekend’s AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view. It seems that the Undisputed Kingdom member has his sights set ton the AEW World title.

    He picked up a win over Lio Rush on last night’s AEW Collision. He asked Tony Khan for a shot at Swerve’s title so that he becomes the one to defend the title at the upcoming AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door on June 30. Khan felt it was a good idea and agreed to his proposal to book the match for Dynamite. 

    The upcoming edition of Dynamite will emanate from Blue Arena in Loveland, Colorado. The show will feature the return of MJF to the show after he made surprise appearance at Double Or Nothing. Meanwhile, Saraya is also scheduled to face Mariah May

    Swerve Strickland captured the AEW World title after defeating Samoa Joe at AEW Dynasty last month. He made his first title defense at a pay-per-view against Christian Cage at Double Or Nothing. Following the match, Swerve celebrated with the fans in the front row as well as boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. 

    Swerve Strickland already has another title defense lined up

    During the May 29 edition of AEW Dynamite, a Casino Gauntlet match took place to determine Strickland’s challenger at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view on Sunday, June 30. The match was ultimately won by Will Ospreay, who is all set to challenge Strickland at the show. This will mark the third annual of the crossover event featuring AEW and NJPW stars. 

    Well, Swerve Strickland also feels that this is the right time to have a WWE-AEW crossover. Read more below:

  • Swerve Strickland: ‘If Ever There Was A Time For WWE-AEW Crossover, It’s Now’

    Swerve Strickland: ‘If Ever There Was A Time For WWE-AEW Crossover, It’s Now’

    WWE and AEW may be the most direct competition of one another, but that doesn’t mean that a crossover between the companies isn’t possible. 

    Since AEW launched in 2019, both companies have taken aim at each other both on and off TV. While AEW Dynamite won the Wednesday Night Wars, it was WWE NXT that won the October 2023 ‘Tuesday Night War’ against AEW’s weekly flagship show. 

    Swerve Strickland On WWE-AEW Crossover

    Reigning AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland knows what it’s like to work in both companies, though his WWE tenure ended long before the current regime. Speaking to The Bootleg Kev podcast, Strickland was asked about a potential crossover between WWE and AEW. 

    “If there’s ever a time it could happen, now is more likely than it’s ever been. I don’t think either person [Tony Khan and Triple H] is opposed… I don’t think there’s ever been a time that’s more likely than now.”

    It’s not hard to see why Strickland feels like a team-up is more likely than ever before. In recent years, WWE has become more open to working with other promotions, as seen with TNA’s Jordynne Grace’s appearance on the May 28, WWE NXT. Grace will face NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez at NXT Battleground. 

    Could the two huge companies work together? 

    WWE And AEW

    Though a crossover event has yet to happen, WWE and AEW have worked together in the past. Billy Gunn was allowed to appear at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony in 2019 despite being part of AEW at the time. The future ‘Daddy Ass’ was inducted as part of D-Generation X. 

    In 2022, multiple AEW stars appeared on Raw to wish John Cena congratulations on the 20th anniversary of his WWE debut. Bryan Danielson, Chris Jericho, and Paul Wight were among those who sent their best to John, with this sign of cohesion showing just how much respect Cena carries across pro wrestling. 

  • Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach: ‘I’m Just As Much a Wrestler As Chris Jericho Is A Singer’

    Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach: ‘I’m Just As Much a Wrestler As Chris Jericho Is A Singer’

    Sebastian Bach, the frontman for legendary heavy metal band Skid Row, has taken aim at Chris Jericho’s singing in a response to the AEW star. 

    Since 2020, Bach has taken aim at Jericho for allegedly using pre-recorded tracks while singing for the AEW star’s band ‘Fozzy.’ In response, Jericho has challenged Bach to a sing-off. When asked by Metal Hammer Magazine whether he plans on accepting Jericho’s challenge, Bach, who has no wrestling experience, once again took aim at Fozzy’s leading man. 

    “The better question would be, will he do a wrestle-off with Sebastian Bach? Because I’m as much of a wrestler as he is a singer.”

    Bach doesn’t hold back with his view on Chris Jericho. 

    Chris Jericho: The Singer

    While Bach is no fan of Jericho’s vocals, Fozzy has had more than its fair share of success. Jericho has been named one of heavy metal’s top 50 singers though squeaked into the rankings at the #50 spot. Bach fared far better in the rank and reached the #8 spot. 

    Jericho’s work with Fozzy has bled over into his role as a professional wrestler. In 2005, the band’s track Enemy was the theme song for that year’s WWE No Way Out pay-per-view. That same year, Fozzy would perform on Raw in a ‘Battle of the Bands’ with John Cena, stemming from Jericho’s feud with the then-WWE Champion. 

    In AEW, Jericho has (until recently) used Enemy as his theme song which fans have been happy to sing along to. Jericho performed the track live with Fozzy at AEW All In as seen in the clip above. While Sebastian Bach may not be a fan of Jericho’s singing, his lengthy career with Fozzy has clearly worked out well for the FTW Champion. 

  • Jon Moxley Challenged By EVIL To A Lumberjack Match At NJPW: Dominion 6.9

    Jon Moxley Challenged By EVIL To A Lumberjack Match At NJPW: Dominion 6.9

    Earlier this month, New Japan Pro Wrestling officially announced that AEW star and current IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Jon Moxley would face EVIL on June 9th at the historic Osaka-jo Hall in Japan. EVIL, the leader of the Bullet Club sub-group “The House of Torture,” has now demanded that their match be a Lumberjack Match, adding an extra challenge to the already anticipated showdown.

    During an Interview with New Japan Pro Wrestling, EVIL declared that he is the rightful IWGP Champion and that a Lumberjack Match would ensure that Moxley would have “no escape.”

    “Since this low life mud show ‘wrestler’ wants to run away from any kind of a fair fight under IWGP rules then I have something for him. June 9 in Osaka Jo Hall, a Lumberjack Match for the title. That way he has no escape…

    He can talk about “gang warfare” all he wants, but all he has in his gang of reprobates is that waste of space, Umino, right? When he’s trapped in the ring with no way out around him, he’ll see his future is as bleak as that fake title he carries around.

    If he wants to bring his snot-nosed brat with him, he can, and we’ll make sure both understand what justice looks like. June 9 in Osaka Jo Hall, I’ll crush you in a Lumberjack Match. Don’t you forget it!” – EVIL

    (h/t New Japan Pro Wrestling)

    The match type is one that EVIL is very familiar with; in January, he defeated Tama Tonga for the NEVER Openweight Championship in the aforementioned match stipulation. One can assume he’s hoping for the same results at Dominion. EVIL’s clash with Jon Moxley was made official shortly following his attack on Moxley At NJPW Resurgence. 

    While this is the first time Moxley and EVIL will square off one-on-one, it isn’t the first time they have shared a ring. Recently, the two faced off as part of a 6 man-tag-team match at Night 1 of NJPW Wrestling Dontaku 2024.

    Jon Moxley has been nearly unstoppable since winning the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.

    Since dethroning Tetsuya Naito at Windy City Riot to win his first IWGP Heavyweight Championship, Jon Moxley has been on a solid run in both NJPW and AEW. Moxley has already defended the championship three times since winning it in April, defeating Powerhouse Hobbs, Ren Narita, and Shota Umino. 

    Jox Monley was supposed to defend the championship against Takeshita at AEW Double or Nothing. However, it was later reported that NJPW vetoed the match being for the title. 

    AEW Double or Nothing Match Card (Photo Credit: All Elite Wrestling)

    The report from The Wrestling Observer noted that the Japanese promotion likely did not want to announce another title match ahead of Moxley’s bout against EVIL at Dominion. The match was later made into an “Eliminator Match,” meaning that Takeshita could have received a championship match at a future date if he had won.

    Moxley faced off against Rocky Romero in a match with the same stipulation on the latest episode of AEW Dynamite. 

     

  • AEW EVPs Matthew & Nicholas Jackson Confirm Reports Of Sneaker Sell-Out

    AEW EVPs Matthew & Nicholas Jackson Confirm Reports Of Sneaker Sell-Out

    On May 15th, The Young Bucks announced on AEW Dynamite that Champs Sports would sell an exclusive Reebox AEW Pump Omni Young Bucks Zone II sneaker. Today, The All Elite Wrestling EVPs have confirmed reports of strong sales, revealing that their limited-time sneaker is completely sold out.

    As previously reported, Champs Sports held nearly 3,000 pairs of sneakers, selling them for $130.00. They were available in sizes 7.5 to 12. The Young Bucks promoted the sneakers on social media and at AEW’s Double or Nothing Media Scrum. 

    In a short post on X, the current AEW Tag Team Champion revealed that Champs Sports was totally sold out. 

    According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the reception of shoe sales was overwhelmingly positive, noting that future footwear collaborations could be coming. 

    “It was a one time special edition release, but with the success they are already in talks about a future project for the next year.”

    The Elite’s reign over AEW has hit a speedbump

    At AEW Double or Nothing, The Young Bucks, along with fellow members of The Elite, Jack Perry and Kazuchika Okada, narrowly defeated the AEW frontlines contingent of Bryan Danielson, Darby Allin, and FTR in an Anarchy In The Arena Match. This essentially cemented The Elite as the unmatched powerhouse stable of All Elite Wrestling.

    On the following edition of AEW Dynamite, The Young Bucks attempted to present Jack Perry with the newly vacated TNT Championship. Thus ensuring that every member of The Elite would be draped in gold. 

    Unfortunately for the corrupt outfit, AEW President Tony Khan threw them a curveball. As The Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels returned, following his “firing” weeks before. Daniels revealed that Khan had appointed him as Interim EVP and that, going forward, he would be a direct spokesman for The President.

    Daniels interrupted The Young Bucks’ impromptu coronation ceremony to announce that a new TNT Champion would be crowned at Forbidden Door through a multi-man ladder match. He also mentioned that qualifying matches would be arranged for the ladder match, ensuring that no one would receive any free passes. This led to The Elite attempting to attack Daniels, but The Acclaimed and Billy Gunn intervened to even the odds.

    It appears that The Elite’s hold on AEW is not as tight as they had assumed! 

  • Mercedes Mone Defends NBA Star Jaylen Brown Over Recent Criticism

    Mercedes Mone Defends NBA Star Jaylen Brown Over Recent Criticism

    AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone has backed Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown after the latter faced criticism.  On ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith claimed that his NBA sources texted him saying Brown is not “liked” due to his ego and that’s why he’s not marketable. Boston Celtics shooting guard responded to Smith on X and asked him to reveal his sources. 

    Mercedes Mone also entered the fray. She backed Jaylen Brown and said that she wanted to have a chat with Stephen A. Smith’s source. ‘The CEO’ further questioned the identity of the ‘source.’ She also flaunted her AEW TBS title win and said she’s “super excited” to see Brown win the NBA title.

    “Hey
    @stephenasmith, from one #GOAT to another, The CEO wants to sit down with your source.
    @FCHWPO, from one superstar to another, I just won my championship & I’m super excited to see you win yours. Keep lifting the game and the community the way you’ve been doing. Go Celtics”

    Mercedes Mone has been an ardent Boston Celtics fan and she is often spotted in attendance for their NBA games. She was also spotted at a game following her AEW debut at ‘Big Business’ edition of AEW Dynamite in her hometown, Boston.  

    ‘The CEO’ recently made an impactful in-ring debut for AEW. She dethroned Willow Nightingale at AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view at MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. In the final moments of the match, Mercedes hit her finisher, Mone Maker, and captured the title on her in-ring debut. 

    Huge match for Mercedes Mone teased 

    During the latest edition of AEW Dynamite, Skye Blue was revealed as Mone’s mystery attacker which set up a title match between the two. ‘The CEO’ successfully retained her title and this marked her first title defense.

    Following the match, CMLL’s Stephanie Vaquer, who is the NJPW Strong Women’s Champion made an appearance. As AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door is approaching soon, it seems that Mone and Vaquer could have a match at the pay-per-view.  

  • Bryan Danielson Reveals How He Celebrated His Birthday

    Bryan Danielson Reveals How He Celebrated His Birthday

    Bryan Danielson celebrated his birthday in a unique style.

    ‘The American Dragon,’ who turned 43, marked the occasion on May 22 in a different fashion. It seems his birthday wish was to test himself ahead of the chaotic Anarchy In The Arena match at AEW Double Or Nothing PPV. He told Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated that he was fasting for a day before going for a five-mile hike. He revealed: 

    “I was fasting for over 24 hours. Meanwhile, I drove from Bakersfield [California] to Las Vegas, got in at midnight, and was up by 5:30 for a five-mile hike.”

    Danielson’s birthday was last Wednesday and he competed against 7-foot giant Satnam Singh in the main event of AEW Dynamite. The veteran wrestler won via DQ after he was attacked by Jay Lethal and Sonjay Dutt. Eventually, The Elite also took him out until Darby Allin made the save.

    Bryan Danielson competed in Anarchy In The Arena

    The Elite (The Young Bucks, AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada, and Jack Perry) emerged victorious over the team of FTR, Darby Allin, and Bryan Danielson after a chaotic Anarchy In The Arena match at Double Or Nothing pay-per-view. Fans at MGM Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada were ecstatic throughout the gruesome battle. Bryan Danielson’s ROH theme song ‘The Final Countdown’ was also played in the background during the match which thrilled the fans even more. 

    The final moments of the match saw The Elite taking out Bryan Danielson with their finishing moves. Jack Perry then secured the victory by pinning Danielson – one of the biggest moments in Perry’s career. AEW Double or Nothing went off the air as The Elite stood tall with Perry on their shoulders. 

  • George Clooney Gifted Casamigos Tequila To Mercedes Mone for AEW Double or Nothing Win

    George Clooney Gifted Casamigos Tequila To Mercedes Mone for AEW Double or Nothing Win

    New AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone received a special case of Tequila from George Clooney following her victory at AEW Double or Nothing 2024. 

    In one of three advertised main events of the show, Mone captured the title from Willow Nightingale, a year on from their NJPW Resurgence encounter. This title win was also Mone’s first match since joining AEW at the Big Business: Dynamite in March 2024. Double or Nothing would go from bad to worse for Nightingale who was also betrayed by Kris Statlander following her title loss.

    George Clooney’s Gift to Mone

    On social media, Mone shared that she had received a case of Clooney’s Casamigos Tequila from the Ocean’s Eleven and Batman And Robin star. Mone explained that since she already had plenty of celebratory Tequila after her victory at Double or Nothing, she wanted ‘the boys’ to enjoy some of Clooney’s brand Tequila. This was good news for Orange Cassidy who was able to enjoy a drink with the new AEW TBS Champion. 

    https://twitter.com/PuroresuFlow/status/1796342803980840975

    What’s to Come? 

    On the May 29, edition of AEW Dynamite, Mone made her first successful title defense when she retained against Skye Blue. The young wrestler had been revealed as the woman behind a recent attack on Mone that set up their title match. 

    After that match, Mone was confronted by CMLL’s Stephanie Vaquer. In addition to appearing for CMLL, Vaquer is the reigning NJPW Strong Women’s Champion. It appears that a match between the two is being set up between the two at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door. 

  • Which Names Were Behind The Booking Of Casino Gauntlet Match?

    Which Names Were Behind The Booking Of Casino Gauntlet Match?

    Several names took part in creating the blueprint for the Casino Gauntlet match that went down on the 5/29 episode of AEW Dynamite, but one significant name was a catalyst, as expected.

    According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Khan was instrumental in laying out the main event match for AEW Dynamite, which happened to be the fallout show for this past weekend’s Double Or Nothing. 

    Internally, Khan was listed as a coach on the match and had help from QT Marshall, Colt Cabana and Serpentico at laying out the match. AEW has been very happy with the reception as it will be Will Ospreay challenging Swerve Strickland for the AEW World Championship at Forbidden Door.

    Some surprise names were implemented into the bout including Mistico, Shota Umino, Lio Rush and Hechicero. The other competitors were PAC, Claudio Castagnoli, Orange Cassidy and Jay White.

    Ospreay happened to also be the winner of the first Casino Gauntlet, a match that actually earned him the right to face Roderick Strong for the AEW International Championship at Double or Nothing, who Ospreay ended up defeating.

    Many were speculating that Strickland and Ospreay would first go head-to-head later this year at ALL IN at Wembley Stadium, but fans will get at least an early sample of that fight next month when Forbidden Door takes place in Long Island.

    This news of Tony Khan laying out the fight comes not long after the AEW President was accused of booking AEW television last minute by Bryan Alvarez.

    Other matches that went down on the 5/29 AEW Dynamite was Jon Moxley in another IWGP World Title Eliminator Match against Rocky Romero, Mercedes Mone took on Skye Blue and Swerve Strickland faced Killswitch.

  • Tony Khan Accused Of Booking AEW Television On The Fly

    Tony Khan Accused Of Booking AEW Television On The Fly

    Tony Khan is clearly passionate about the “one true sport” of professional wrestling, but has his booking method been to AEW’s detriment?

    F4WOnline‘s Bryan Alvarez was chatting with users on the website’s forum and stated that Tony Khan has been making last-minute decisions when it comes to finalizing shows, including AEW Double Or Nothing this past Memorial Day weekend.

    “Tony switched the script on [AEW Double or Nothing] multiple times during the afternoon. Most people, not just the wrestlers, have no idea what they’re doing until the day of the show, and sometimes not until an hour or so before the show. People are flown to towns and given nothing to do, others are begged the day before the show to please get to the town so they can do something last-minute.”

    There may have been an example of this on Wednesday as Saraya was set to go one-on-one with Mariah May, marking her first singles match since her absence, but that bout was removed and rescheduled for next week’s episode of Dynamite. In between those changes Saraya took to social media to briefly post “About to really start speaking my mind,” before deleting her comment.

    On the recent AEW Double or Nothing media call Tony Khan was asked by Alvarez’s co-hort in Dave Meltzer if there’s anything he’d like to change over the course of AEW”s five years to which Khan credited himself as a wrestling historian and would like to learn from the mistakes of pro wrestling’s past. Khan potentially booking weekly television last minute is falling in line of the footsteps of Vince McMahon, also to his product’s detriment, would book WWE RAW and SmackDown at the very last minute.

    However, Khan making last-minute changes appears to not be a recent occurance.  For what it’s worth, during ALL OUT 2023 weekend, I overheard two AEW talents talking about how they were uncertain of their status for that night’s episode of AEW Collision (the one before CM Punk was terminated), with one prominent name making it known “That’s AEW.”

    H/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.