SEScoops

Category: AEW

  • AEW Rankings Report (12/9): Jon Moxley #1 Contender

    AEW Rankings Report (12/9): Jon Moxley #1 Contender

    AEW has released new top-5 rankings ahead of tonight’s Dynamite. They are the first rankings since last week’s Winter is Coming event.

    Men’s Singles Rankings

    AEW World Champion: Kenny Omega (8-0)
    TNT Champion: Darby Allin (14-5)

    1. Jon Moxley (21-1) (previously AEW World Champion)
    2. Maxwell Jacob Friedman (10-1)
    3. Cody Rhodes (20-3-1)
    4. Brian Cage (12-1)
    5. Ricky Starks (15-2)

    With Kenny Omega the new AEW World Champion, Jon Moxley drops to the #1 ranked spot. There was no other movement this week in the men’s singles division.

    #2 Maxwell Jacob Friedman will face the unranked Orange Cassidy tonight with the winner being awarded the Dynamite Diamond ring.

    #3 Cody Rhodes teamed with TNT Champion Darby Allin to defeat Powerhouse Hobbs and #5 Ricky Starks last week as the American Nightmare Family vs Team Taz rivalry continues. #4 Brian Cage, also a member of Team Taz, picked up a win on Dark this week.

    Women’s Singles Rankings

    AEW Women’s Champion: Hikaru Shida (21-1)

    1. Big Swole (14-4)
    2. Nyla Rose (13-3)
    3. Serena Deeb (4-2)
    4. Penelope Ford (11-5) 
    5. Abadon (5-1)

    There was no movement in the women’s singles rankings this week. Champion Hikaru Shida has been challenged by the frightening #5 Abadon, and it seems she has been left a little unnerved by the situation. Abadon will be in singles action tonight.

    #1 Big Swole and #2 Nyla Rose both picked up wins on Dark this week.

    #3 Serena Deeb and #4 Penelope Cruz stay put in the rankings this week.

    The unranked Britt Baker and Thunder Rosa were involved in a big pull apart last week after Baker defeated Leyla Hirsch, so we could see something between them soon in AEW.

    Tag Team Division Rankings

    Tag Team Champions: The Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson) (11-3)

    1. FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) (12-1)
    2. The Best Friends (Trent & Chuck Taylor) (19-7)
    3. Jurassic Express (Jungle Boy & Luchasaurus) (14-5)
    4. The Natural Nightmares (Dustin Rhodes & QT Marshall) (9-2)
    5. The Dark Order (Evil Uno & Stu Grayson) (14-2)

    There were no changes this week in the tag-team division.

    A non-title match between The Young Bucks and the Hybrid2 will take place on tonight’s show. The Bucks said last week that if Angelico and Jack Evans can beat them tonight, they’ll get a future shot at the belts.

    Former champion, #1 FTR, will also be in action tonight. They’ll face Brian Pillman Jr. and Griff Garrison, collectively now known as The Varsity Blondes.

    The unranked teams of the Lucha Bros and Butcher and the Blade will be in action tonight as well. Lance Archer will team with the Lucha Bros to take on Eddie Kingston and the Butcher and the Blade.

  • Kenny Omega Appears On Impact Wrestling, Promises Big Announcement

    Kenny Omega Appears On Impact Wrestling, Promises Big Announcement

    After the controversial finish to the AEW World Championship match between Kenny Omega and Jon Moxley during last week’s episode of Dynamite, Don Callis had announced that the new AEW champion will make an appearance on this week’s episode of Impact Wrestling to explain things.

    The new champion then made an appearance on the show alongside Callis where he set down with Josh Mathews and the two opened up about the events of this past Wednesday night.

    The interview began with Mathews asking how long the AEW and Impact alliance has been in work, to which Callis replied that it all began when he met Kenny at the age of 10. From there Callis made it his mission to be in Omega’s corner and so the idea has been in works for nearly 27 years.

    Omega Explains His Actions

    Josh Mathews then moved the conversation towards the AEW title match. Josh asked the former NJPW star why he decided to use a microphone as a cheap shot to gain victory over Moxley, despite saying that he wouldn’t do so during their gentlemen’s agreement.

    Replying to it, the new champion explained that Moxley shouldn’t have hit Don Callis saying “When you involve family, when you lay your hands on the invisible hand – what do you expect me to do?”

    Later in the interview, Kenny Omega declared that collecting world championships is his new hobby and he wants to face other world champions from different promotions, including Impact.

    The duo concluded the interview by claiming that they have a big announcement to make at this week’s episode of Dynamite on Wednesday. You can check out Kenny Omega’s Impact Wrestling appearance in the video below:

    https://twitter.com/KennyOmegamanX/status/1336515978281283586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

    Kenny Omega’s declaration that he wants to face other world champions is very interesting. we will have to see what other crossovers it leads to in the coming times and if it means that AEW world title will be defended at other promotions.

  • Sting Expected To Wrestle In AEW, Will Have Creative Input

    Sting Expected To Wrestle In AEW, Will Have Creative Input

    After Sting’s AEW Dynamite debut last week, many fans likely did not assume the 61-year-old would become an active member of the roster. According to Justin Barrasso of SI.com, Sting is expected to wrestle for the promotion.

    “Sports Illustrated has learned the relationship between Sting and AEW president Tony Khan will be collaborative, which was certainly not the case in WWE with McMahon,” Barrasso wrote. “Even with his advanced age, there are plans for Sting to eventually enter the ring in AEW,” he continued.

    ‘A Motivated Steve Borden Can Be A Powerful Addition to AEW”

    Lengthy singles matches are probably not the right vehicle for Sting at this stage in his career. However, he could be used strategically teaming with other AEW wrestlers and even in cinematic matches.

    Sting’s most recent match took place five years ago. The last time he was in the ring, Sting was injured during a match with Seth Rollins at Night of Champions 2015. He wrestled 4 matches for WWE that year, including his loss to Triple H at WrestleMania 31. Last week’s AEW Dynamite was Sting’s first appearance on TNT since wrestling Ric Flair on the final episode of WCW Nitro back in 2001.

    Sting speaks to Tony Schiavone Wednesday night in a reunion of sorts for the longtime colleagues.

  • Should AEW Sign Brock Lesnar? “Everybody Has Their Damn Price”

    Should AEW Sign Brock Lesnar? “Everybody Has Their Damn Price”

    Brock Lesnar is a free agent. The 43-year-old megastar could retire comfortably after lucrative runs with WWE and the UFC. He also remains one of the biggest box office attractions on earth. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) could garner tremendous attention by signing him. WWE Hall of Famer Gerald Brisco thinks Lesnar would entertain the right offer.

    Brisco recently spoke with Nick Hausman of Wrestling Inc about Lesnar’s future. The man who recruited Lesnar to WWE twenty years ago says you can ‘never say never’ in the pro wrestling business.

    “If the money is right, and I believe this with all my soul that Brock Lesnar would not do it unless he was offered one of those .. as Ted DiBiase said, ‘Everybody has their damn price.’”

    Brisco says that AEW would have to offer Brock Lesnar an ‘ungodly’ amount of money to sign him. Even then, he think Lesnar would approach Vince McMahon with the opportunity to match such an offer.

    “You talk about frugal,” Brisco said of Lesnar. “He is one of the most frugal guys there is on the face of the Earth. Did he save us money? Yes, every damn penny of it, but I think it would have to be an extreme circumstance, and I think he would pick up the phone and call Vince about the amount of money that he got offered and see if Vince is going to go to do anything. And honestly, I think Vince would do something.”

    WarnerMedia and the billionaire Khan family have the financial resources to make Brock Lesnar an offer that would qualify as an “extreme circumstance.” It remains to be seen if they view the cost of acquiring Lesnar to be worthwhile.

    Gerald Brisco hosts the “Mailbag with Gerald Brisco” podcast at AdFreeShows.com.

    More News on Brock Lesnar’s Free Agency

    Watch Gerald Brisco’s interview with Nick Hausman for Wrestling Inc:

  • Tony Khan Appearance Rumored For Tonight’s Impact Wrestling

    Tony Khan Appearance Rumored For Tonight’s Impact Wrestling

    AEW World Champion Kenny Omega and Don Callis will appear on tonight’s episode Impact Wrestling TV. According to a HeelByNature, AEW President Tony Khan is also scheduled to make a cameo on the broadcast.

    Khan and AEW broadcaster Tony Schiavone are expected to appear on the show in a “paid advertisement.” This sounds similar in format to when the NWO would run promo spots during WCW programming.

    Longtime fans remember the black and white segments that began with a voiceover stating, “The following announcement has been paid for by the New World Order.”

    Impact Wrestling Preview

    In addition to the Kenny Omega & AEW involvement, the following matches are announced for tonight’s Impact Wrestling:

    • Cody Deaner vs Eric Young
    • Brian Myers vs TJP
    • Josh Alexander vs Chris Sabin
    • Knockouts Tag Team Title Tournament (1st Round)
      Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary vs Deonna Purrazzo & Kimber Lee

    If you don’t have access to AXS TV, you can watch for free at the Impact Wrestling Twitch Channel starting at 8PM (Eastern). Melissa Santos hosts during commercial breaks. Note that a replay of the show is not available on Twitch after it has aired, however.

    AEW Dynamite Preview

    AEW has announced the following matches for tomorrow night’s show:

    • Dynamite Diamond Ring Match
      Maxwell Jacob Friedman vs Orange Cassidy
    • The Young Bucks vs The Hybrid2
    • FTR vs The Varsity Blondes
    • Lance Archer and The Lucha Bros. vs. Eddie Kingston, The Butcher & The Blade
    • Dustin Rhodes vs 10
    • Abadon vs TBA

    Additionally, Sting will appear in a speaking segment and the Inner Circle will decide if they should disband.

  • Mark Henry Talks AEW and IMPACT Wrestling Partnership

    Mark Henry Talks AEW and IMPACT Wrestling Partnership

    WWE Hall of Famer and co-host of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio Mark Henry recently discussed the working partnership between IMPACT Wrestling and AEW. Henry would say that he is a fan of the two brands working together.

    “I do think it will work” Mark Henry began on Busted Open Radio. “I think that is something that for a long, long time? Fans have wanted. They’ve wanted to see fantasy booking. They wanted to see who was the best from WWE versus the best at WCW, and they got that. Look how successful that ended up being!”

    Mark Henry on WWE ‘Invasion’

    Henry would then address a rumor that was originally being discussed amongst the likes the of Vince Russo. “Just a few months ago there was a rumor, and it was just a rumor, because if it had any legs? It would have happened. An invasion from WWE to AEW, and I was like, ‘oh, man. That would be cool.’”

    It seemed odd for Henry to address this rumor as it appeared to be fairly baseless from the get go.

    “AEW made [the partnership], they made it a reality with IMPACT” Mark Henry continued. “There’s some good, really outstanding talent on Tuesday nights, so I’m looking forward to seeing how that’s gonna happen.”

    Mark Henry would finish by mentioning how the relationship with NWA has helped AEW. Specifically, with the National Wrestling Alliance allowing the likes of Thunder Rosa to appear on All Elite programming and PPV. “I mean you see Thunder Rosa is coming in and wrestling the women at AEW, and she’s adding a lot to their women’s division. So it’s good relationship for both and it’s good for every company involved.”

    AEW Champion Kenny Omega will be appearing on IMPACT this week. The newly crowned Champion took the belt last week with help from IMPACT’s Don Callis.

    Will you be watching IMPACT this week? Let us know in the comments

  • Shaq Announced For AEW Dynamite This Wednesday

    Shaq Announced For AEW Dynamite This Wednesday

    Shaq is All Elite. All Elite Wrestling has announced that basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal will be appearing on this week’s episode of Dynamite on TNT.

    The NBA Hall of Famer will be interviewed by Tony Schiavone. AEW newcomer Jade Cargill dropped Shaq’s name on Dynamite last month when confronting Cody Rhodes. She has since attacked Brandi Rhodes, leading to speculation that we will see a mixed tag match pitting Shaq & Cargill vs. Cody & Brandi Rhoes.

    This isn’t the first time Shaq is crossing over to the world of professional wrestling and he has made several WWE appearances in the past.

    At one point he was even scheduled for a match against WWE’s resident giant Big Show at the WrestleMania 33 event but those plans were nixed later on.

    Dynamite Preview (12/9)

    This isn’t the only big segment announced for this week’s episode of Dynamite and the company has announced a number of interesting matches and segments for the show as well.

    The segments announced for the show include things like Sting, who made his surprise debut for the promotion last week, breaking his silence for the first time since his arrival.

    The matches announced for the show includes bouts such as The Young Bucks defending their AEW tag team titles against TH2, MJF putting his Diamond Ring on the line in a bout against Orange Cassidy and more.

    Shaq’s addition to this line up makes this show even bigger and it would be interesting to see if the legendary basketball player ends up getting involved in any angle to keep him around for longer.

  • Jim Ross Doubles Down on AEW Retirement Comments

    Jim Ross Doubles Down on AEW Retirement Comments

    AEW commentator and WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross recently discussed his retirement plans on the Grilling Jr podcast. JR had made it clear recently that AEW will likely be his ‘last gig’ in professional wrestling.

    Jim Ross doubled down on those comments on his podcast this week. “I got a lot of comments online about a remark where I mentioned that; as far as I’m concerned? At this point in my life? AEW is my last gig, and I met that.”

    Jim Ross on Tony Khan

    JR would then compare working for All Elite Wrestling to WWE, saying that not everything is solely based on the owner’s whim. “I love working for Tony Khan, he’s a whole different ballgame. People just don’t understand, that the culture of WWE? It is what it is. It is all Vince [McMahon] related and oriented. When you get on the Vince’s good list? It’s a wonderful thing. If you’re not? It’s not so great.”

    “Tony Khan’s about the same every time you see him” Jim Ross continued. “And he’s still a fan. He still loves the business, he loves talking about the business, telling stories and asking questions. He has an innate knowledge of things that went on before he was even born. So it’s really a fun experience.”

    JR would finish by once again saying that this will indeed be his last job in pro wrestling. “I think at my age? I need to be realistic. As long as my work holds up to acceptable levels, hopefully better than that, but at least acceptable levels? I don’t see any reason to go anywhere else.”

    Can you see Jim Ross ever returning to WWE or NJPW? Let us know in the comments

  • Rocky Romero Refutes AEW-NJPW Rumors

    Rocky Romero Refutes AEW-NJPW Rumors

    Earlier this week, it was reported that Tony Khan was still beating down NJPW’s door in the hopes of developing a working agreement between the two promotions. It was reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, that Khan was speaking with NJPW’s Rocky Romero regularly to get something done.

    “Khan has been speaking to Rocky Romero regularly of late to try and open doors to New Japan, feeling the odds are better to do something with Harold Meij gone,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

    Romero refuted these reports recently on an episode of Talk N Shop with Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows. According to Romero, he hasn’t talked to Tony Khan in over a month.

    “I guess Meltzer’s reporting that me and Tony Khan are having calls all the time, like every week, which is not true at all,” Romero said on the show.

    “I’m not talking to Tony weekly, no. I mean, I’ve talked to Tony in the past, of course,” Romero continued. He was then asked about the last time he spoke with the AEW President.

    “I’ve talked to Tony probably a month ago, maybe more,” Romero continued.

    “(Meltzer) is not completely lying but he’s making it seem… he’s selling something and trying to make it seem something… He’s trying to get clicks,” Romero continued. He would later refer to the report as “misleading.”

    Shortly after this, the subject of what exactly Rocky Romero’s role with NJPW is concerning American talent. Although unofficial, Romero has long been thought of as NJPW’s point person for American and English-speaking talent.

    “I’ve never said that,” Romero said when the Good Brothers referred to him as working for talent relations in NJPW. Gallows wasn’t convinced, however.

    “I’m saying that, it might not be your actual title,” he said. “Your pay cheque says differently. They don’t just pay you to talk guys out.”

    “Yes, they are!” Romero responded.

    The full Talk N Shop episode can be listed to here.

  • QT Marshall Talks ‘Nepotism’ in AEW, Having To Prove Himself

    QT Marshall Talks ‘Nepotism’ in AEW, Having To Prove Himself

    AEW star QT Marshall recently appeared on Chris Jericho’s Talk Is Jericho podcast. The Nightmare Family member discussed a number of topics during his time on the show, including teaming with Dustin Rhodes in All Elite Wrestling.

    “There’s a lot of nepotism and stuff that goes along with that, being friends with Cody” QT Marshall began on the podcast. “I always feel like I just, I need to prove myself. Even though like I’ve been training in wrestling for 16 years and I don’t really need to prove myself? But to certain fans? I feel like I always do. I always have to justify why I’m here.”

    QT Marshall also discussed the Bunkhouse match that he took part in recently. The Natural Nightmares took on The Butcher and The Blade on Dynamite in a bloody affair. Marshall hit a massive elbow drop during the match from the top of a ladder, something he discussed on the Talk Is Jericho podcast.

    QT Marshall on The Bunkhouse Match

    “What could I do…that if I never wrestle again? What could I do that would live forever? The night before I was just at the building looking over stuff, you know as I do for the production side of things. I saw a humongous ladder and I was like, ‘what if I jump off this ladder?’ And then I climbed up when no one was here, I just climbed up and I looked down. I literally yelled to one of the production guys and was like, ‘hide this ladder, because this one is way too big!”‘

    Did you watch the Bunkhouse match on Dynamite? Are you impressed with the tag team of QT Marshall and Dustin Rhodes? Let us know in the comments

  • MJF Reveals The Length Of His AEW Contract

    MJF Reveals The Length Of His AEW Contract

    MJF is just one of many talented wrestlers who were under the radar before because WWE officials did not see value in them but have become big stars after getting a platform in form of AEW.

    During his recent interview with MMA Fighting, the young star talked about things like how AEW has provided a platform to many young wrestlers and more.

    Talking about how AEW does not restrict its stars, MJF said that you are the only person to blame if you don’t make it in the promotion. He then went on to reveal the length of his current contract:

    “We’re all going out there and doing our thing, we’re doing our version of what we feel the sport of professional wrestling is supposed to be and what I feel the sport is supposed to be — which is just me, my face, 24/7 and if we can be honest here, it’s working out for AEW which is why they signed me to a five-year deal.”

    MJF signed his current deal with the company back in 2019 which means that the 24-year-old wrestler will be staying with the promotion at least until 2024.

    Apart from this, the former MLW star talked about things such as why he stands out from the rest of the AEW roster and more. You can check out his full interview at this link.

  • AEW Dynamite To Be Preempted Christmas Week

    AEW Dynamite To Be Preempted Christmas Week

    It appears that the AEW Dynamite episode to air during Christmas week will have to change dates thanks to the NBA, which released its regular season schedule on Friday. 

    During the reveal of the schedule, it was confirmed that the Milwaukee Bucks vs. the Boston Celtics will take place on Wednesday, December 23 at 7:30 pm ET and live air on TNT. AEW usually airs at 8 pm ET every Wednesday night. As a result, the show will have to be moved.

    This also means that WWE NXT will go unopposed on this night. The good news for AEW, this will be the only time that they’ll have to deal with this issue until the NBA playoffs start. 

    As of this writing, AEW has not announced a new date for the December 23 show, but that will likely change in the near future. 

    AEW has already announced several matches and segments for next week’s episode of Dynamite. 

    Among things set for the show include FTR facing The Varsity Blondes (Griff Garrison and Brian Pillman Jr), Orange Cassidy vs. MJF for the Dynamite Diamond Ring, and Sting speaking for the first time about his promotional debut. 

    Chris Jericho Talks Working With Dean Malenko in AEW, Changing ‘Coach’

  • Eric Bischoff On Sting In AEW: ‘A Motivated Steve Borden Can Be A Powerful Addition’

    Eric Bischoff On Sting In AEW: ‘A Motivated Steve Borden Can Be A Powerful Addition’

    Former WCW President Eric Bischoff has commented on Sting’s recent AEW debut at Winter is Coming. Bischoff responded to fans commenting on the debut on Twitter. He shared his excitement over what Sting’s signing means for AEW and “The Icon” himself.

    Bischoff discussed the future storyline potential that would include the former WCW World Champion. He explained how AEW has so far “[…] over delivered on one very important story element and have laid an intriguing foundation for another.” As far as Bischoff is concerned, he’s all in on Sting’s involvement with the promotion.

    In response to another fan commenting on Sting’s WCW ‘Crow’ gimmick, Bischoff reflected on how it was an “amazing story/arc” that helped redefine his character. He added how a “motivated Steve Borden can be a powerful addition to the cast.”

    Sting Debuts

    “The Icon” debuted during this Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite. The Winter is Coming special not only saw the surprise debut of Sting, it also saw Kenny Omega dethrone Jon Moxley to become the new AEW World Champion.

    AEW has hyped up Sting’s appearance on next week’s episode of Dynamite. “The Icon” is set to speak about his actions at Winter is Coming and will no doubt hint towards his future intentions.

  • MJF Named In The New York Times’ Best Performances of 2020

    MJF Named In The New York Times’ Best Performances of 2020

    The New York Times has named its Best Performances of 2020.

    Alongside distinguished actors and actresses in big budget dramas by Netflix and HBO sits Maxwell Jacob Friedman for his performance in Le Dinner Debonair.

    Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Wesley Morris gushes about MJF’s talent, stating that nobody in WWE matches what he brings to the table.

    “Some weeks the athleticism at this professional wrestling start-up [AEW] is more exciting than anything happening in Vince McMahon’s empire. And no one in the WWE has this kid’s combination of diction (Juilliard by way of Long Island), intensity or cheesiness, either.”

    The critic continued, “Even when Friedman’s lost his cool (his nom de ring is MJF), he still has astounding control. The character is part heel, part tool (hair gel, loafers, Burberry bling — tacky, tacky, tacky) and part goodfella wannabe; his mouth does more running than he does.”

    Morris said that Jericho & MJF’s rendition of Me and My Shadow was ‘less than spectacular,’ but credits MJF for making it so memorable.

    “He wasn’t embarrassed at all. He was smooth in a way that should worry Ric Flair. This kid makes you wanna say, ‘Woo!’”

    MJF defends his Dynamite Diamond Ring against Orange Cassidy next week on AEW Dynamite.

    You can read the full feature at the New York Times. 

  • Sting’s AEW T-Shirt Sets Pro Wrestling Tees Sales Record

    Sting’s AEW T-Shirt Sets Pro Wrestling Tees Sales Record

    Sting made his All Elite Wrestling debut during this week’s episode of Dynamite. The appearance of “The Icon” shocked wrestling fans across the world and has already helped to set a new record.

    Pro Wrestling Tees has shared that Sting’s debut has helped set a new record for the store. Following Wednesday’s special episode, Winter is Coming, Sting’s new shirt on Pro Wrestling Tees set a new record for the most shirts sold in 24 hours.

    Although they hyped the accomplishment, the Instagram caption highlighted that it hadn’t even been 24 hours at the time of the post. The total number of shirts sold by the end of the actual 24 hours would, in theory, easily surpass previous records for the popular t-shirt company.

    Following his debut, Pro Wrestling Tee’s released a brand new t-shirt, baseball cap and hoody, all adorned with Sting’s new AEW logo. “The Icon” sported the t-shirt himself during his debut on the show.

    Sting in AEW

    Sting came out following the tag team match between Cody Rhodes and Darby Allin versus Team Taz representatives Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs.

    “The Icon” would make his way into the ring and stare down Nightmare Family members Arn Anderson, Dustin Rhodes and Cody Rhodes. He then stared down Darby Allin before leaving the ring.

    Sting will speak for the first time live on AEW next week on Dynamite.

  • Update On AEW’s Potential Interest In Tessa Blanchard

    Update On AEW’s Potential Interest In Tessa Blanchard

    Tessa Blanchard has wrestled just one match since leaving Impact Wrestling this year. She never returned to the promotion following the onset of the global pandemic. Impact ultimately stripped her of the world title as a result.

    According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW is not interested in bringing her in, despite her immense talent. “Based on what we were told, when her name came up, the feeling was that while nobody will deny her talent and from that standpoint they know she’d be very valuable, especially with the nature of their women’s division, the decision was made to not pursue her,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

    In September, Blanchard released a statement addressing her hiatus from wrestling in 2020 and future plans.

    “I’ve been away for a while, the main reason for that is to focus on my wedding & honeymoon. The past few months I’ve gotten back to the basics & been focusing on the relationships I have with family, friends & myself,” Blanchard wrote. 

    “The point of this post is because I’m taking back the control of my narrative. I’ve had people weigh in on what I should do, what I should say, what interview to do, where to go.. now, I want to listen to what I want and what’s in my heart.”

  • Kenny Omega Impact Wrestling Appearance Details

    Kenny Omega Impact Wrestling Appearance Details

    Kenny Omega defeated Jon Moxley during this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite to become the new AEW World Champion. Omega secured the gold after assistance from Impact Wrestling’s Don Callis. He will now appear on next Tuesday’s episode of Impact Wrestling.

    It turns out that Omega was not present for Impact Wrestling’s last set of tapings. The promotion has reportedly already pre-recorded their shows up until the end of 2020.

    Mike Johnson of PWInsiderElite.com recently discussed the forthcoming appearance. He explained how “Kenny Omega was not at the last set of IMPACT Wrestling tapings, they are done, they have filmed all their TV for the year.”

    “I was told that the plan is this coming week Don Callis and Kenny Omega will be filming something, I assume in Canada, I don’t know for sure, for IMPACT that will inserted into the TV show.”

    Kenny Omega On Impact Wrestling

    Don Callis revealed how wrestling fans will first hear from the new AEW World Champion on Impact Wrestling. Callis shared the news as he and Omega fled from Daily’s Place, the current resident home of AEW Dynamite at the end of Winter is Coming.

    This was followed up by a tweet from Impact Wrestling’s official account. The message hyped Omega’s appearance, proclaiming that “Tuesdays are the new Wednesdays!“

    AEW’s working relationship with Impact Wrestling adds to their pre-existing partnership with the National Wrestling Alliance.

  • Wardlow Talks WWE Tryout, Says “I’m a Wrestler. I’m Not an Entertainer.”

    Wardlow Talks WWE Tryout, Says “I’m a Wrestler. I’m Not an Entertainer.”


    Wardlow is the latest guest on the AEW Unrestricted podcast. The ‘muscle’ of Chris Jericho’s Inner Circle spoke to Aubrey Edwards and Tony Schiavone about his journey to AEW, his tryout with WWE and more.

    Wardlow was introduced to AEW as the bodyguard of MJF. The 32-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio’s first match for the company took place on February 19th. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as he faced Cody Rhodes inside a steel cage. Wardlow says he has virtually no memory of that night, despite the effect it had to solidify him as a devastating force inside the ring.

    “It’s like that whole evening and match is like a blackout. I don’t remember the entrance. The only thing I really remember is when I was standing in the ring, and Cody and I were squaring off when the bell rang.”

    Wardlow’s WWE Tryout

    Prior to joining AEW, Wardlow had a tryout for WWE. He believes he “smoked” the tryout and could not believe how unprofessional and disinterested some of the other participants were.

    “I was literally the only dude there in a suit. It was mind blowing. Dudes are there in shorts and t-shirts. That’s because they’re not recruiting wrestlers. They’re recruiting ex-NFL athletes or college wrestlers, people that have never watched wrestling.”

    He felt sick to his stomach knowing that some of these guys were getting multiple tryouts with WWE and didn’t even like the sport. Wardlow was so confident WWE would hire him that he sold his house, motorcycle and possessions expecting to move to Florida for training. He was floored when they decided against signing him.

    “I’m Not An Entertainer”

    Wardlow ultimately signed with All Elite Wrestling and hasn’t looked back. He knows exactly who he is and what he is capable of. He is still hovering in the background of MJF and Chris Jericho, but it’s only a matter of time before he takes center stage.

    “Wrestling for me, you know, this is what I do. This is what I know. This is very real to me. When I get out there, I’m competing. I’m an athlete. I’m a wrestler. I’m not an entertainer. I’m not an artist. You know, when I’m out there, am I entertaining? Absolutely. Do I create art? Art of war, sure. I’ll create a painting with their blood.”

    You can listen to Wardlow’s appearance on AEW Unrestricted at Omny.fm or in the player embedded below:

  • Update On AEW’s Efforts To Work With NJPW

    Update On AEW’s Efforts To Work With NJPW

    AEW’s Winter is Coming show ended with Impact Wrestling executive Don Callis telling fans to tune into his show Tuesday night on AXS TV. According to a recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW is open to working with all wrestling companies right now and is still hoping to create a working relationship with New Japan Pro Wrestling.

    “Khan has been speaking to Rocky Romero regularly of late to try and open doors to New Japan, feeling the odds are better to do something with Harold Meij gone,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

    Earlier reports stated that Tony Khan was cautiously optimistic about what Harold Meij leaving NJPW would do for a potential working relationship.

    “I’m not sure yet,” was Tony Khan’s reaction to Meij’s departure in the Wrestling Observer in October. “But my initial gut feeling is it could be good.”

    Khan also spoke about wanting a relationship with New Japan during a media scrum after AEW Revolution.

    “We all definitely watch a lot of New Japan in this room. I think they are a great company and a lot of my people have worked shows there and I have no problem with guys – as long as its not interfering on a regular basis with what we do on Wednesdays and with our PPVs, guys working there. That’s some of the flexibility we have. Can’t have it all the time but I think it’s been fine for me, it doesn’t really bother me.”

  • The Young Bucks Discuss Sting’s AEW Debut

    The Young Bucks Discuss Sting’s AEW Debut

    All Elite Wrestling’s Young Bucks have opened up about Sting’s AEW debut on this week’s episode of Dynamite. The special episode, entitled Winter is Coming, saw the former WCW World Champion make his debut for the promotion.

    Speaking with the Living the Gimmick podcast, The Young Bucks explained how Sting was hidden backstage throughout the day. When it came time for him to make his debut, Sting was accompanied by a member of Atlas Security.

    He reportedly walked through the backstage area with an intense tunnel vision. Members of AEW’s staff and roster all turned their heads “like it was the Exorcist” to watch the Icon walk by.

    The Young Bucks described the shock the AEW roster collectively experienced as Sting prepared to debut. According to the Young Bucks, it was a lot of fun to see the locker room have a “mark out” moment like that.

    Witnessing the way the AEW talent reacted to Sting helped build their personal excitement for his on-screen reveal. This is because The Young Bucks were confident it would be an “even bigger moment on television.”

    Sting debuted following a tag team matchup between Cody Rhodes and Darby Allin versus Team Taz’s Ricky Starks and Powerhouse Hobbs. Upon entering the ring, he stood face-to-face with Arn Anderson before leveling intense looks at Dustin Rhodes, Cody Rhodes, and, finally, Darby Allin.

    Sting remained silent throughout his first appearance. He is set to speak for the first time on next week’s episode of AEW Dynamite.

    The Young Bucks interview on the Living the Gimmick podcast drops next week, but you can listen early at the show’s Patreon page.

  • Young Bucks Talk About AEW Working With Impact & Other Companies

    Young Bucks Talk About AEW Working With Impact & Other Companies

    Don Callis dropped a bombshell at the conclusion of this week’s AEW Dynamite. Kenny Omega’s first comments as new AEW World Champion will not take place on next week’s Dynamite, but on Tuesday’s edition of Impact Wrestling. It was a huge development that signals a working relationship between the two organizations. Wrestling fans are excited at the prospect of inter-promotional matches, especially in the women’s and tag team divisions.

    AEW Executive Vice Presidents Nick and Matt Jackson have revealed interesting details about how the AEW-Impact situation came together. The Young Bucks spoke with Jon Alba and Doug McDonald this week for the Living The Gimmick Podcast. According to Matt, the working relationship has been in the works for nearly two years

    “Two years ago, this is something Nick and I actually brought up and we wanted to get this going,” Matt said. “And for whatever reason, it just didn’t work out. I don’t know if that was more on our side or what, but we just couldn’t get everyone to agree on what the creative would be.”

    This is something we’ve been whispering in Tony Khan’s ear for two years. So we’re all about collaboration and partnering with everyone and working together .. This is something that we truly wanted to do for a very, very long time. And I guess the timing was right and we got done.”

    Collaborating With Other Promotions

    In the lead-up to the launch of AEW, the Bucks made surprise appearances at independent wrestling shows across the United States. The All In pay-per-view was a “super show” of independent wrestling that showed the benefits of companies working together for a greater good. Matt thinks this attitude is “what wrestling needs” and will help AEW further transforming the landscape.

    “I just think [working with other promotions] makes things unpredictable when you’re working with companies,” he said. “That’s what wrestling needs. It gets stuck in the same formula for so long it gets boring. It’s too easy to predict at times and you don’t want that to happen. So when you can make it different and change things up a bit, make it unpredictable, the fans like it more. It’s almost an easy formula when you explain it that way.”

    Nick agrees that inter-promotional matches makes wrestling interesting. The entire industry benefits when companies ‘relax their borders’ to present the most compelling storylines and matches that are possible.

    “This is a way to make things interesting, and if you do it right it can be very good for business,” said Nick. “We’ve done it, like Matt said earlier, it worked well when we’ve done it in the past.”

    Both men talked about their feud with The Hardy Boyz doing massive business for Ring of Honor.

    AEW & Impact Wrestling

    So, what will a working relationship between AEW & Impact look like? Nick says it’s still so early, he doesn’t think they know exactly how things will play out. They’re dipping their toes in the water, but already have some big picture plans in place.

    “There are immediate plans that I can’t exactly just give away right now. But my dream, if I had it my way, I just think about the possible dream matches. People are already hitting me up like, ‘Oh my god, can you imagine if it was the Young Bucks and the Motor City Machine Guns 10 years later?’ How can you not jump ahead and fantasize and fantasy book?”

    AEW has the strongest tag team division in the world. In addition to established acts like the Young Bucks, FTR, the Lucha Bros. and Dark Order, they are still introducing exciting young talent, like Top Flight and The Acclaimed. The Bucks know fans are eager to see AEW’s top teams work The North, the Good Brothers and the Motor City Machine Guns. Matt once again hinted that there are some big surprises coming that fans are sure to enjoy.

    “Are we going to do that stuff? I’m not sure yet, we’re still in the beginning of this. But there are some big surprises coming and I’m really excited about it,” Matt said.

    The Young Bucks interview on the Living the Gimmick podcast drops next week, but you can listen early at the show’s Patreon page.

  • AEW Dynamite & NXT Viewership For December 2nd

    AEW Dynamite & NXT Viewership For December 2nd

    Sting’s AEW debut, Jon Moxley’s World title defense against Kenny Omega and the shocking conclusion of last night’s Dynamite helped Winter is Coming score a decisive win over WWE NXT. Here’s the breakdown, courtesy of PWTorch.com:

    • AEW: 913,000 viewers, 0.42 rating (Adults 18-49)
    • NXT: 658,000 viewers, 0.16 rating (Adults 18-49)

    In the Men 18-34 demographic, AEW crushed NXT .29 to .04.

    For comparison, Monday’s WWE Raw averaged 1,741,000 viewers and did a 0.53 rating in the key demo.

    This week’s Impact Wrestling data is available this week, since they made the Top 150 shows on cable. Tuesday’s Impact on AXS-TV did 166,000 viewers with a 0.05 in the Adults 18-49 demographic. It ranked 121 on cable for the night.

    With new AEW World Champion Kenny Omega appearing on Impact next week, it’s going to be interesting to see how much of a boost Impact gets from this appearance.

    AEW President Tony Khan thanked the great fans who helped make the ‘biggest Dynamite of all time’ a viewership success.

    Check out our results and takeaways from this week’s AEW and NXT:

  • Renee Paquette Talks Starting Podcast Whilst Pregnant During COVID-19 Restrictions

    Renee Paquette Talks Starting Podcast Whilst Pregnant During COVID-19 Restrictions

    Former WWE on-screen personality Renee Paquette (Young) recently discussed her pregnancy on the Oral Sessions Podcast. Oral Sessions is Paquette’s newest venture; now on the second episode which features former MMA and Pro Wrestling star Josh Barnett.

    Barnett hosts the annual BloodSport events and Paquette’s husband Jon Moxley has been a long admirer of the concept. The ‘shoot’ based event saw Moxley appear for the 2020 iteration back in October, facing Chris Dickinson in the main event.

    Renee Paquette on new Podcast

    Prior to the event Renee would record her episode of the podcast with Josh Barnett. “What’s kind of funny is that this was literally recorded days after I found out that I was pregnant” Renee would reveal on the show. “So, I had no idea what was going on with anything.”

    “It was a very interesting time” Paquette would continue. “I was just wrapping my head around the fact that I was pregnant. AND trying to get this podcast off the ground.”

    Renee would then discuss the difficulties of recording the interview during the COVID-19 pandemic whilst also being pregnant. “I was in Indianapolis with Jon (Moxley) who was going to do Bloodsport finally for the very first time. So I was stuck in the hotel room, I had to fully quarantine and couldn’t hang out or do anything because I just found out I was pregnant. I couldn’t do anything! Josh had been COVID tested, Jon had been COVID tested, so we were all safe to be able to gather around and crank out this podcast.”

    Have you started listening to Renee Paquette’s Oral Sessions podcast? Have you got over the name yet? It’s ridiculous, right? Let us know in the comments

    Check out the full episode of Oral Sessions view the embedded player below.

  • Backstage News On AEW & Impact Wrestling Relationship

    Backstage News On AEW & Impact Wrestling Relationship

    AEW’s Winter is Coming was an eventful show, to say the least. We saw Sting’s AEW debut, which garnered mainstream headlines and was still trending on social media on Tuesday morning. However, that memorable moment was overshadowed by what transpired at the end of the broadcast.

    Dynamite closed with Kenny Omega winning the AEW World Championship with help from longtime friend (and Impact Wrestling executive), Don Callis. As Omega and Callis were leaving the arena, Callis said that Omega would be on Impact Wrestling next Tuesday night.

    AEW’s relationship with Impact Wrestling was discussed on the latest Wrestling Observer Radio. “The Callis thing has been in the works for a while,” Dave Meltzer. “I didn’t know this but I presume that Don Callis – you know, Don Callis came up with the Omega Jericho match- I presume he came up with this idea and Tony Khan went with it and Omega probably wanted it.”

    Kenny Omega is now a full-blown heel, with Don Callis at his side. Hijacking the AEW World Championship and are taking it to another ‘territory’ is a huge development that presents a multitude of storyline options.

    In addition to Omega appearing on Impact television next week, we’ve heard that this affiliation will naturally lead to some talent exchange. It is very likely that some Impact talent will end up on AEW television, which is win-win for both sides. Impact has a strong women’s division, as well as several tag teams like The North, Gallows & Anderson and the Motor City Machine Guns. You can also expect some AEW talent appearing on Impact.

    Kenny Omega will address his actions next Tuesday on Impact Wrestling.

  • News On Sting’s AEW Deal & How He Will Be Used

    News On Sting’s AEW Deal & How He Will Be Used

    Sting debuted for AEW last night at Winter is Coming. Shortly after his appearance on the show, it was announced that he signed a full-time multi-year agreement with the promotion.

    Sting’s deal with AEW was discussed recently on Wrestling Observer Radio. “It’s not like WWE where you show up once every year or whatever. I mean, he is going to be on this thing. They wanted the idea of the big star from the old generation TNT being back as a regular.”

    At 61-years-old, Sting is limited with how physical he can get. Don’t expect to see him working 20-minute singles matches, but he can still be a valuable asset to AEW.

    “Whatever physical stuff he does, they are going to have to do very safely,” Meltzer continued. “There will be physical stuff but I don’t think he’ll be taking any bumps or anything like that. But he’s in, he’s going to be a character in some form.”

    Sting’s debut was timed for the holiday season in part to sell merchandise. Fans probably noticed Sting was wearing an official AEW t-shirt for his debut. Immediately after his segment on Dynamite, a line of Sting t-shirts, hoodies and hats was added to the AEW store.

    Check out Sting’s new AEW merchandise at ShopAEW.com.