SEScoops

Category: TNA

  • Impact Wrestling Introduces Digital Media Championship

    Impact Wrestling Introduces Digital Media Championship

    Impact Wrestling is introducing a new championship belt. Impact has announced a single-elimination tournament to crown the inaugural Impact Digital Media Champion.

    The tournament kicks off Tuesday, October 5th. The finals will be held at Bound For Glory on October 23rd. Here’s a look at Impact’s hype video announcing the new title:

    It appears Knockouts will also be able to contend for the title as they were featured alongside the male stars in the promo video. The company hasn’t officially confirmed that is the case, but one would imagine so.

    Impact Bound For Glory 2021

    Bound For Glory is beginning to take shape. There will be a bevy of title matches on Impact’s biggest show of the year. Take a look at the matchups that have been scheduled for the PPV event so far.

    • Impact World Championship: Christian Cage (c) vs. Josh Alexander
    • Impact Knockouts Championship: Deonna Purrazzo (c) vs. Mickie James
    • Call Your Shot Gauntlet Match: Rich Swann vs. Brian Myers vs. TBA
    • Impact X Division Championship: Trey Miguel vs. TBA vs. TBA
    • Impact Digital Media Championship: TBA vs. TBA

    Stick with SEScoops for the latest updates on the Impact Wrestling Bound For Glory card as we get closer to the show.

  • Don’t Expect FinJuice To Split Any Time Soon

    Don’t Expect FinJuice To Split Any Time Soon

    World title aspirations may be in full effect but don’t count on FinJuice breaking up in the near future.

    David Finlay and Juice Robinson have had success as a tag team in both New Japan Pro Wrestling and Impact Wrestling. They have won tag team gold under both promotions. Lately, the two have been spending their time in Impact.

    Finlay hopped on the Wrestling Perspective Podcast and admitted that while he is chasing singles gold, he doesn’t see himself breaking away from Juice yet.

    “I do have aspirations of one day becoming World Champion,” Finlay shared. “At the same time, though, I have so much fun doing tag matches. I really, really enjoy them. I Love tagging with Juice. It’s a blast and never feels like work. So yeah, like I’ll do this until I don’t want to do it anymore and then I guess we part ways, maybe? Or maybe we don’t, I don’t know. But I do have aspirations of being a World Champion somewhere.”

    Finlay recently competed for the NEVER Openweight Title. While it isn’t a world championship, a win over Jay White at NJPW Strong Resurgence would’ve given him his first singles title run. It wasn’t meant to be as White scored the pinfall after hitting Bladerunner.

    Meanwhile, Juice Robinson has tasted singles gold. He is a former two-time IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion. Juice gained a ton of momentum in NJPW pre-pandemic.

    Time will tell whether or not David Finlay can realize his dream of becoming a world champion. For now, he’ll be looking for tag team gold once again with Juice Robinson as FinJuice.

  • Impact Results (9/23): The Fallen Angel Returns

    Impact Results (9/23): The Fallen Angel Returns

    Impact wrestling on September 23rd was the first show since the promotion presented Victory Road over the weekend. It also started the build towards next month’s Bound for Glory. This week’s episode would also feature the return of Christopher Daniels to Impact for the first time since 2014.

    Impact 9/23 Quick Results:

    1. David Finlay defeated HIKULEO
    2. Rohit Raju defeated Chelsea Green
    3. Rich Swann & Willie Mack defeated Brian Myers & VSK 
    4. Josh Alexander defeated Ace Austin

    Josh Alexander Officially Cashes In Option C

    Scott D’Amore kicked off the show and introduced Josh Alexander to come out and officially cash in Option C. Alexander commented on having left the business years ago and his neck injuries but said he is ready to be the face of Impact Wrestling. To do that, he must win the Impact World Championship. Christian Cage came out and told Alexander he will not be the face of the company, he will be another face in the crowd after talking about having had his career taken from him for 7 years.

    Ace Austin and Madman Fulton then confronted both of them, bitter about Austin having lost the title match at Victory Road. A melee breaks out between all 4 and Austin hit Cage in the eye with his cane. It would later be revealed in the back that Cage was not medically cleared to compete tonight but Alexander would face Ace Austin in the main event.

    ELP Returns, Bullet Club Has Strength In Numbers

    David Finlay got a measure of revenge against Bullet Club this week when he pinned HIKULEO in singles action. The end of the match came when HIKULEO rebounded off the ropes and fell backward over top of a crouching Finlay, who then scored the pinfall with a cradle.

    After the match, Bullet Club attacked both David Finlay and Juice Robinson but FinJuice was able to fend off the assault. Then El Phantasmo returned to Impact to give Bullet Club the numbers advantage and the edge in the melee. Impact’s Bullet Club faction looks to be growing and becoming more dominant with Chris Bey, HIKULEO, and El Phantasmo.

    Rohit Raju Gets Help From Raj Singh To Defeat Chelsea Green

    An inter-gender match took place last night on Impact. Green was holding her own and even appeared poised to hit her UnprettyHer, but the returning Raj Singh caused a distraction allowing Raju to score the pinfall on Green with a small package.

    Rich Swann & Willie Mack Beat Brian Myers & VSK

    This match was made after Brian Myers interjected himself into Swann and Mack’s backstage promo earlier in the night. Mack announced he was gunning for the now vacant X-Division title and Swann is entering the Gauntlet battle royal at Bound for Glory.

    Myers said that none of the students in his Learning Tree faction were ready to be his partner for this match against Mack and Swann. So, Myers introduced VSK as his partner.

    The finish of this match came when Sam Beale attempted to help out his side by pushing Swann off the top rope. Unfortunately for Beale, Swann landed right on top of VSK and got the pin. VSK did not look pleased with Beale’s actions here.

    Mickie James Calls Out Deonna Purrazzo For Bound For Glory

    Mickie James came out for a promo. She talked about how she was glad that Purrazzo was part of the big NWA Empowerrr show but her actions that night are not something she’s going to let go. She called out the Knockouts champ and challenged her to a match at Bound For Glory.

    Purrazzo denied James’ challenge and the two brawled. Scott D’Amore then came out and said Purrazzo doesn’t get to turn down James’ challenge and made a match between the two official for Bound For Glory.

    Eddie Edwards vs W. Morrissey Street Fight Booked For Next Week

    A show-long angle this week involved Sami Callihan and Eddie Edwards looking for W. Morrissey. At Victory Road, Morrissey power-slammed Alisha Edwards and Eddie is out looking for revenge. Callihan and Edwards took a baseball bat and kendo stick to Morrissey’s run-in buddy Moose and searched all backstage for Morrissey. When they finally found him, however, security separated them but D’Amore made a street fight between the two for next week.

    Gail Kim Announces Knockouts Knockdown Tournament

    The Knockouts Knockdown event on October 9th will feature an 8-woman tournament involving 4 of Impact’s top talent against 4 wrestlers from outside the promotion. Gail Kim announced this backstage but was interrupted by The Influence who demanded a tag title shot. Kim said if they can beat Jordynne Grace and Rachael Ellering next week, they will get that shot.

    Christopher Daniels Returns!

    Josh Alexander defeated Ace Austin in the main event this week after delivering a C4 Spike. After the match, however, Austin and Madman Fulton attacked. Cage came out to make the save but then while he and Alexander were having a stare down, Austin and Fulton attacked again. Then “The Fallen Angel” Christopher Daniels returned to the Impact Zone for the first time since 2014 to make the save.

    Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

    Next Week:

    • X-Division BFG Title Match Qualifier
      Trey Miguel vs Laredo Kid vs Alex Zayne
    • Street Fight
      Eddie Edwards vs W. Morrissey
    • Knockouts Tag Team Title #1 Contendership
      The Influence (Tenille Dashwood & Madison Rayne) vs Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering

    Bound For Glory (October 23rd, 2021)

    • Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Josh Alexander
    • X-Division Championship (Vacant)
      TBD vs TBD vs TBD
  • Rich Swann ‘Cherished’ His Match With Kenny Omega

    Rich Swann ‘Cherished’ His Match With Kenny Omega

    Rich Swann is honored to have shared the ring with Kenny Omega and would like to do it again.

    Swann was the Impact Wrestling World Champion as well as the TNA World Champion before Omega challenged for the gold. The title match took place at the Rebellion PPV back in April. Omega ended up scoring the pinfall to lay claim to the gold.

    During an interview with Sportsman, Swann reflected on getting to go one-on-one with “The Best Bout Machine.”

    “I lost my IMPACT World Championship and TNA World Championship, but at the end of the day, it’ll come back around, you never know. Just that feeling of having that high pressure and being able to deliver, it was something that I cherish and don’t take for granted. Kenny Omega, he’s one of the hardest hitter, smoothest performers, great talker. Just to be put in that light and put up there with somebody that has been in a high regard, number one in Pro Wrestling Illustrated, it’s something that I would love to do again and I loved the experience.”

    Swann had been Impact World Champion for 183 days. Omega’s reign lasted 110 days. He saw that title run come to an end on the debut episode of AEW Rampage. Omega was beaten by Christian Cage. Cage ended up retiring the TNA World Championship.

    A future rematch between Swann and Omega may not be impossible but we could be waiting a while. Omega appears to be done with Impact for the time being. With cross-promotion in full effect, one can’t rule out the possibility.

  • Tommy Dreamer Removed From Busted Open Radio

    Tommy Dreamer Removed From Busted Open Radio

    Busted Open Radio’s Dave LaGreca briefly addressed Tommy Dreamer’s status with the show on today’s episode. Dreamer has been a longtime co-host of Busted Open but has not appeared on it since the airing of a recent Dark Side of the Ring episode focussed on 2002’s Plane Ride From Hell.

    LaGreca noted that Dreamer is off the show for the time being but he does not know how long Dreamer will be gone for.

    “As far as Tommy’s future on Busted Open, he’s off the show. How long? I don’t know. I don’t know how long Tommy is going to be off the show,” said Dave LaGreca (transcriptions via WrestlingNewsCO).

    Dreamer took to social media recently to apologize for the comments he made on the Dark Side of the Ring episode. His statement is below:

    Dreamer was also suspended by Impact Wrestling. He was sent home from the promotion’s recent tapings in Nashville.

    “We are aware of Mr. Laughlin’s (Tommy Dreamer) comments on ‘Dark Side of the Ring.’ The views expressed by him in the interview are completely unacceptable. We can confirm Mr. Laughlin was suspended this morning with immediate effect, pending further action,” reads a statement released by Impact.

  • Sami Callihan Undergoes Surgery After Suffering Broken Ankle

    Sami Callihan Undergoes Surgery After Suffering Broken Ankle

    Sami Callihan will be out of action for a while.

    Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that Callihan suffered a broken ankle during this past weekend’s Impact Wrestling tapings. Callihan isn’t expected to return to the ring this year.

    “Sami Callihan suffered a broken ankle Saturday at the Impact tapings and had surgery. Looks to be out until spring 2022.”

    It’s a tough pill to swallow for Impact Wrestling fans. Those who were hoping to see the return of Switchblade Conspiracy will also be disappointed. Switchblade Conspiracy is the team of Sami Callihan and Jon Moxley. The two were set to reunite at The Wrestler Revolver’s Tales From The Ring show on Oct. 30.

    Callihan recently competed at Impact Wrestling’s Victory Road PPV. He teamed with Eddie Edwards to take on Moose and W. Morrissey. Callihan and Edwards lost the match. This match had been taped back in August but didn’t air until Sept. 18.

  • Tommy Dreamer Addresses ‘Dark Side Of The Ring’ Controversy

    Tommy Dreamer Addresses ‘Dark Side Of The Ring’ Controversy

    Tommy Dreamer has issued a statement after recent controversial comments got him in hot water.

    Dreamer appeared on an episode of Dark Side of the Ring covering the “Plane Ride From Hell.” The former ECW Champion received massive pushback for his comments on the episode defending Ric Flair. Flair is accused of sexual assault by a flight attendant from that plane ride.

    Dreamer has now taken to his Twitter account to issue an apology.

    “Regarding my comments on Dark Side of the ring. It was never my intention to offend, hurt or victim shame anyone. I understand my comments were insensitive & could trigger emotions in someone’s own personal past. I do not condone sexual misconduct of any kind. I apologize to anyone I offended. From the bottom of my heart I am so sorry.”

    Tommy Dreamer works under the Impact Wrestling banner. Ed Nordholm of Anthem Sports and Entertainment revealed to PW Insider that Dreamer has been suspended.

    “We are aware of Mr Laughlin’s (Tommy Dreamer) comments on ‘Dark Side of the Ring.’ The views expressed by him in the interview are completely unacceptable. We can confirm Mr Laughlin was suspended this morning with immediate effect, pending further action”.

  • Josh Alexander To Challenge For Impact Title at Bound For Glory

    Josh Alexander To Challenge For Impact Title at Bound For Glory

    It was confirmed on the IMPACT Victory Road 2021 event that Christian Cage will be defending his IMPACT World Championship against Josh Alexander at Bound For Glory 2021.

    Both Alexander and Christian Cage successfully defended their titles at the Victory Road event, to Chris Sabin and Ace Austin respectively.

    After Cage beat Austin in the main event, Josh Alexander appeared and declared that he was going with Option C.

    Option C was first introduced by Hulk Hogan at the start of the last decade, where the IMPACT X-Division Champion had the ability to trade in their X-Division title to gain a shot at the IMPACT World Championship.

    Pre-Order Impact Bound For Glory now from FITE

    Christian Cage vs Josh Alexander

    The stipulation has remained in TNA/IMPACT since then, with many former X-Division Champions going on to win the World Championship in the company.

    So far this is the only match confirmed for the event on October 23, 2021, at Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    It was revealed earlier in the year that  All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Mexico’s Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA), and Japan’s New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) will all be part of the PPV event in October.

    Mickie James vs Deonna Purazzo is also being rumored for the event with the IMPACT Knockouts Championship on the line.

  • Spoiler: Impact Inducts Former Champion Into Hall of Fame

    Spoiler: Impact Inducts Former Champion Into Hall of Fame

    Impact Wrestling is currently taping shows from the Skyway Studios in Nashville. One of the shows taped yesterday was the Knockouts Knockdown event and during the event, Impact inducted a new member to its Hall of Fame.

    After officially retiring from the ring at NWA Empowerrr, Awesome Kong was inducted into the Impact Hall of Fame, according to a report from Fightful. Kong said she dedicated her induction to Daffney. A special Daffney memorial Monster’s Ball match will take place to honor her on the Knockouts Knockdown event as well.

    Awesome Kong is a 2x Knockouts Champion and also won the Queen of the Knockouts tournament in 2015. Her long-running feud with Gail Kim is often considered one of the greatest programs in the history of the promotion. Kim was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016.

    Impact Wrestling Hall of Fame Members

    Impact Wrestling’s Hall of Fame dates back to 2012 when Sting was the inaugural inductee. 

    1. Sting (2012)
    2. Kurt Angle (2013)
    3. Team 3-D (Bully Ray & Devon) (2014)
    4. Jeff Jarrett (2015)
    5. Earl Hebner (2015)
    6. Gail Kim (2016)
    7. Abyss (2018)
    8. Ken Shamrock (2020)
    9. Awesome Kong (2021)

    Impact Wrestling presents Victory Road tonight on the Impact Plus App. Christian will defend against Ace Austin in the main event.

  • AEW Wrestler Spotted At Impact Tapings

    AEW Wrestler Spotted At Impact Tapings

    Impact Wrestling is currently taping shows in Nashville. Victory Road airs tonight on the Impact Plus app. According to a report from Fightful, Christopher Daniels is at the tapings. Daniels hasn’t wrestled for Impact Wrestling in over 7 years, having last performed for the promotion in 2014.

    It is being speculated that Daniels could wrestle as part of the tapings, something he hasn’t done since the May 12th episode of Dynamite. Daniels and Kazarian lost an AEW tag title shot to the Young Bucks on that show.

    Daniels is a 4x X-Division Champion with Impact Wrestling/TNA Wrestling. His 280 days spent with the title belt ranks him 8th all-time in that category. He also twice held the Impact tag-team titles along with Kazarian. He also held the NWA tag-team titles 6x while a member of TNA.

    Victory Road Lineup

    Impact Wrestling presents Victory Road tonight from Nashville. The lineup for the show is below:

    1. Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Ace Austin
    2. Impact Tag Team Championships
      The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows) (c) vs. Rich Swann and Willie Mack
    3. X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander (c) vs Chris Sabin
    4. Knockouts Tag Team Championships
      Decay (Rosemary & Havok) vs Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans
    5. Chris Bey & Hikuleo vs FinJuice (David Finlay & Juice Robinson)
    6. Moose & W. Morrissey vs. Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan
    7. Steve Maclin vs. Petey Williams vs TJP
    8. Taylor Wilde vs. Tenille Dashwood (with Kaleb with a K)
    9. Matt Cardona (with Chelsea Green) vs. Rohit Raju (with Shera)
  • Impact Victory Road: Final Card For Tonight, How To Order

    Impact Victory Road: Final Card For Tonight, How To Order

    Impact Wrestling presents Victory Road tonight live from Nashville, Tennessee at Skyway Studios. The show begins at 8pm (Eastern).

    Order Impact Victory Road at FITE ($9.99)

    The main event will see Christin Cage defend the Impact World Championship against Ace Austin.

    The “Walking Weapon” Josh Alexander looks to prove he’s the greatest X-Division Champion in history. He defends against 8-time champion, Chris Sabin.

    The Knockouts Tag Team Titles will also be up for grabs, as Rosemary & Havok defend against Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans.

    Victory Road Matches

    The following matches are scheduled for tonight:

    • Impact World Champion Christian Cage vs Ace Austin
    • X Division Champion Josh Alexander vs Chris Sabin
    • Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan vs Moose & W. Morrissey
    • FinJuice (David Finlay and Juice Robinson) vs Bullet Club (Chris Bey and Hikuleo)
    • Knockouts Tag Team Champions Decay (Havok and Rosemary) vs Savannah Evans and Tasha Steelz

    How to Order Victory Road

    Order Impact Victory Road is available to fans who subscribe to the Impact Plus streaming service. You can also purchase the event easily from FITE for just $9.99.

  • Tommy Dreamer Suspended By Impact Following ‘Dark Side Of The Ring’ Appearance

    Tommy Dreamer Suspended By Impact Following ‘Dark Side Of The Ring’ Appearance

    Tommy Dreamer has been suspended by Impact Wrestling “effective immediately” following his appearance on this week’s Dark Side of the Ring episode about the Plane Ride from Hell. Dreamer’s defense of Ric Flair’s behavior on the infamous plane ride has drawn backlash online.

    https://twitter.com/BasilCabana/status/1438680426579644424

    PWInsider reports that Ed Nordholm of Anthem Sports and Entertainment sent an email to the Impact roster today addressing the matter. Nordholm called Dreamer’s comments “out of line with our core values.”

    Impact confirmed news of Dreamer’s suspension:

    “We are aware of Mr Laughlin’s (Tommy Dreamer) comments on “Dark Side of the Ring”. The views expressed by him in the interview are completely unacceptable. We can confirm Mr Laughlin was suspended this morning with immediate effect, pending further action”.

    In addition to periodically wrestling on the show, Dreamer was a member of Impact’s creative team. As of the spring, Impact’s creative team reportedly consisted of Scott D’Amore, Tommy Dreamer, RD Evans and Jimmy Jacobs.

    Impact is in Nashville currently for tapings at the Skyway Studios. Dreamer was reportedly in Nashville but was asked to leave by Nordholm. On Saturday, Impact will present Victory Road on the Impact Plus App. Christian Cage vs Ace Austin will headline the show.

  • Impact Results (9/16): Victory Road Go-Home Show

    Impact Results (9/16): Victory Road Go-Home Show

    On Impact 9/16, the promotion continued to build to this Saturday’s Victory Road event. The main event featured a 10-man tag match between Christian Cage’s team and Ace Austin’s.

    Impact 9/16 Quick Results:

    1. Fallah Bahh & No Way defeated Hernandez & Johnny Swinger (Before the Impact)
    2. Decay (Black Taurus & Crazzy Steve) defeated Rhino & Deaner (Violent By Design)
    3. Petey Williams defeated TJP
    4. John Skyler defeated Laredo Kid
    5. Trey Miguel defeated Drama King Matt
    6. Christian Cage, Josh Alexander, Chris Sabin, Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan defeated Ace Austin, Madman Fulton, Brian Myers, Moose & W. Morrissey

    Rhino Turns On Eric Young & Violent By Design

    In recent weeks, we’ve seen videos of Eric Young saying he needs to cleanse the sickness out of Rhino. This week, Rhino finally had enough of Young and his cronies. Violent By Design lost another one this week when Deaner accidentally hit Rhino with the VBD flag and then took a second-rope DDT from Crazzy Steve for the pin. After the match, Young was berating Rhino but had enough and grabbed Young’s arm. Deaner then attacked Rhino and the segment ended with Young breaking the VBD flag over Rhino’s back.

    Steve Maclin Takes Out Petey Williams and TJP

    Petey Williams got some revenge on TJP this week after TJP cost him a match last week. This all stems from the illegal underground gambling operation that Johnny Swinger is running in the back and TJP betting against Williams last week.

    Williams countered a cradle attempt into a pin for the win on TJP. After the match, however, both TJP and Williams were attacked by Steve Maclin.

    Willie Mack Returns For Revenge Against The Good Brothers

    After being injured at the hands of the Good Brothers a few weeks ago, Willie Mack returned this week and along with his partner Rich Swann attacked the Impact tag champs. Shortly after the melee, Scott D’Amore granted Swann and Mack a title shot against Anderson and Gallows this weekend at Victory Road.

    John Skyler Picks Up Win Over Laredo Kid

    John Skyler cut a promo this week on Laredo Kid who defeated him recently on an episode of Before the Impact. He said that tonight when they meet again, the luchador won’t be so lucky. Skyler pulled out all the stops in this match and the finish came after he twisted Laredo Kid’s mask, cradled him and pulled the tights to get the pin.

    Taylor Wilde Pays The Influence A Visit

    Taylor Wilde invaded the set of the Influence’s various talk shows this week. She didn’t come alone, however, but brought Jordynne Grace and Rachael Ellering as backup. Wilde then informed Tenille Dashwood that they have a match this weekend at Victory Road.

    Matt Cardona and Rohit Raju Brawl in the Back

    In a recent match, Rohit Raju hit Chelsea Green with a Tiger knee to the face. Cardona has taken exception to this and the two were brawling in the back this week. It was later announced that Cardona and Raju will face each other at Victory Road in a no DQ match on Saturday.

    Mickie James Saves Trey Miguel From Deonna Purrazzo and Drama King Matt

    Trey Miguel used his submission skills to pick up a win over Drama King Matt this week. After the match, however, Deonna Purrazzo attacked Trey from behind and began delivering the boots to him. This brought out Mickie James to make the save. James then dove onto both Purrazzo and Drama King Matt on the outside to end the segment.

    Christian Cage’s Team Stands Tall Ahead of Victory Road

    Several of Impact Wrestling’s top feuds played out in this match. Chris Sabin and Josh Alexander were on the same side in this match but will be on opposing sides at Victory Road. W. Morrissey and Moose will take on Sami Callihan & Eddie Edwards at Victory Road but also had a chance to face each other here. Finally, when the smoke cleared Christian hit Brian Myers with a spear and Josh Alexander gave him the C4 Spike to give the win to the babyfaces to close the show.

    Victory Road Lineup

    1. Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Ace Austin
    2. Impact Tag Team Championships
      The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows) (c) vs. Rich Swann and Willie Mack
    3. X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander (c) vs Chris Sabin
    4. Knockouts Tag Team Championships
      Decay (Rosemary & Havok) vs Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans
    5. Chris Bey & Hikuleo vs FinJuice (David Finlay & Juice Robinson)
    6. Moose & W. Morrissey vs. Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan
    7. Steve Maclin vs. Petey Williams vs TJP
    8. Taylor Wilde vs. Tenille Dashwood (with Kaleb with a K)
    9. Matt Cardona (with Chelsea Green) vs. Rohit Raju (with Shera)
  • Rhino Signs Contract Extension With Impact Wrestling (Report)

    Rhino Signs Contract Extension With Impact Wrestling (Report)

    It looks like Rhino is staying in Impact Wrestling.

    PWInsider is reporting that Rhino has re-signed with the promotion. The terms of the new deal have not been revealed. Rhino’s previous deal with Impact Wrestling began back in 2019 after he made the decision to leave WWE.

    During an interview with Sporting News back in 2019, Rhino explained why he chose Impact as his landing spot.

    “It’s a company on the right path for almost two years,” Rhino said when asked what signing with Impact meant to him. “They have been moving in a direction where wrestling fans want a company to go in terms of letting the talent be the talent, having bookers booking the matches on the card as opposed to writers.

    “I think a lot of fans are drawn to a promotion like that. Not speaking against other promotions, but other promotions are doing it differently because they’re very successful. But I think there’s a niche where you have to let talent be talent and have enough talent where it’s not drowned out too much and where you don’t have enough TV time and run enough shows to use them. It’s up to the talent, whether to sink or swim. And Impact because guys have more control when their contracts are up.”

    Rhino has had success with Impact. Back when the promotion was called TNA Wrestling, he captured the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. He also won tag team gold in the company alongside members of Violent By Design.

  • Announce Team Revealed For Impact Knockouts Knockdown

    Announce Team Revealed For Impact Knockouts Knockdown

    Impact Wrestling has unveiled the announce team for Knockouts Knockdown.

    The special all-women’s event is scheduled to take place on Oct. 9. This will be the first time the event will be held since 2017. It used to run annually beginning in 2013.

    Gail Kim made the announcement that the event is making a comeback. The show will feature the likes of Impact Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo, Mercedes Martinez, Lady Frost, Renee Michelle, and more.

    Now, Impact has revealed the announce team.

    “BREAKING: Here is your Knockouts Knockdown announce team!

    Ring Announcer:
    Melissa Santos

    Color Analyst:
    Mickie James

    Play-By-Play:
    Veda Scott”

    In addition to the announce team and the wrestlers revealed for the show, there will also be a Monster’s Ball match in honor of the late Daffney. Here’s what Impact had to say about the memorial match.

    “Knockouts Knockdown will feature the Daffney Memorial Monster’s Ball match – a tribute to Daffney, who competed in the first Knockouts Monster’s Ball alongside Taylor Wilde in 2009.”

    Keep it locked on SEScoops.com as more details of the Impact Knockouts Knockdown event become available. We’ll be sure to keep you posted on additions to the show as well as any potential changes.

  • Impact Reveals Knockouts Knockdown, Will Hold Daffney Memorial Match

    Impact Reveals Knockouts Knockdown, Will Hold Daffney Memorial Match

    Impact Wrestling has revealed the return of Knockouts Knockdown.

    This will be a special event set for Oct. 9. A pioneer of Impact Wrestling Knockouts, Gail Kim, made the announcement.

    “BREAKING: As revealed by Gail Kim, the all Knockouts event Knockouts Knockdown will return on October 9th.”

    Impact has nabbed the services of Mercedes Martinez for the event. Martinez was recently released from WWE. She was a part of a slew of NXT roster cuts.

    Also part of the special event will be a Daffney memorial Monster’s Ball match. Daffney passed away on Sept. 1.

    “Knockouts Knockdown will feature the Daffney Memorial Monster’s Ball match – a tribute to Daffney, who competed in the first Knockouts Monster’s Ball alongside Taylor Wilde in 2009.”

    Daffney competed in Impact when the promotion was known as TNA Wrestling. She worked with the company dating back to her early appearances in 2002.

    Also set for the show will be Impact Wrestling Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo. She’ll be putting her gold on the line against a mystery opponent.

    Fans will also get to see Lady Frost and Renee Michelle.

    Impact Wrestling’s Knockouts Knockdown began in 2013 as an annual event. The shows ran through 2017.

  • Deonna Purrazzo Says She Considered Quitting Wrestling After NXT Run

    Deonna Purrazzo Says She Considered Quitting Wrestling After NXT Run

    Deonna Purrazzo had such a bad experience during her run with WWE that the former NXT star had seriously considered quitting the wrestling business altogether after being released from the promotion. The Impact Knockouts champion recently appeared on Oral Sessions with Renee Paquette. She talked about her wrestling career in detail including her time in NXT.

    Opening up about how she felt upon her release from the promotion, Purrazzo said that she was emotionally drained. She revealed that she had started thinking about quitting the business to lead a normal life:

    “I was just kind of emotionally drained from wrestling, that environment and that system just really didn’t work for me as a person. I was just very much, ‘this is such b******t! This is not what I love about wrestling.

    When I was fired, I had contemplated going back to school a whole bunch.” said Deonna Purrazzo, “and I was like, ‘okay, I’m definitely going to go back to school.’ So I immediately sent in applications to different schools that were online, and I was like, ‘maybe I’ll just be a normal person again.’”

    What Deonna Purrazzo Would Have Done After Quitting

    The Impact wrestling star also talked about what she was planning for herself after her release. According to her, she had contemplated becoming a full-time teacher:

    “I am really, just a big history buff. So when I was released in May, that was the first thing. ‘I’m going to go to school and I’m going to be a history teacher maybe!’”

    Deonna Purrazzo was released from her WWE contract in April 2020, after wrestling only 16 televised matches in her two-year-long stint. The female star thankfully didn’t quit wrestling and she has since returned to Impact where she is in her second reign as the Impact Knockouts champion.

    Deonna Purrazzo Would Love to Team With Dr Britt Baker
  • Free Agency Updates On Bray Wyatt & Braun Strowman

    Free Agency Updates On Bray Wyatt & Braun Strowman

    Former Universal Champion Braun Strowman was released from WWE on June 2nd, 2021. He’s now free to sign with other promotions. Former Universal and WWE Champion Bray Wyatt was released from WWE on July 31st, 2021. Assuming he is under a 90-day no-compete clause, he’ll be free to sign with another promotion at the end of October.

    Both Braun Strowman and Bray Wyatt’s free agency status was addressed recently in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. It appears both Wyatt and Strowman could end up in Impact Wrestling but Wyatt could also end up signing with AEW.

    “Regarding newcomers (to Impact), Adam Scherr, the former Braun Strowman, is in talks but has not signed but they are in talks with him,” wrote Dave Meltzer about Strowman’s negotiations with Impact. Strowman has also been announced for EC3’s “Free the Narrative 2” PPV on October 1st.

    Bray Wyatt’s Future

    As for Wyatt, it is thought he’ll either end up in Impact or AEW.

    “As far as Windham Rotunda, the former Bray Wyatt, it appears it’ll be (Impact) or AEW,” Meltzer continued.

    “If it is AEW, the talk is that it would be on the 9/29 Dynamite in Rochester, NY, which is Brodie Lee’s home city. If not there or soon after, it would likely be here.”

    Braun Strowman To Wrestle EC3 At “Free The Narrative 2” PPV
  • Impact Results (9/9): More Bullet Club Members Walk Through Forbidden Door

    Impact Results (9/9): More Bullet Club Members Walk Through Forbidden Door

    Impact Wrestling on September 9th featured the continued build to Victory Road and another Bullet Club member walking through the forbidden door. Much of this show also involved Christian Cage and Ace Austin putting together teams for a big multi-person tag match next week.

    Impact 9/9 Quick Results:

    1. Rosemary defeated Tasha Steelz
    2. Bunkhouse Brawl
      Karl Anderson defeated Rich Swann
    3. David Finlay defeated Chris Bey
    4. Steve Maclin defeated Petey Williams
    5. Moose defeated Eddie Edwards

    Tasha Steelz and Savannah Evans Steal KO Tag Title Belts

    Decay’s Rosemary picked up a win in the night’s opening contest against Tasha Steelz. Things seemed even between the two but then Rosemary caught Steelz coming out of the corner with a spear and picked up the win.

    As Decay was celebrating, Savannah Evans hit the ring and distracted Rosemary and Havok. This allowed Steelz to grab the Knockouts tag title belts as Evans attacked Decay. Steelz and Evans hurried away with the title belts with Decay in pursuit to end the segment.

    Karl Anderson Needs Doc Gallows’ Help To Beat Rich Swann

    Rich Swann was without his tag partner Willie Mack at ringside this week, and that was the difference here. Mack is on the shelf with an injury after The Good Brothers put him through a table recently. This meant that Swann had nobody in his corner for this Bunkhouse brawl against Karl Anderson. It would be the numbers advantage that would allow Anderson to pick up the win.

    The finish of the match saw Swann go to the top rope, possibly to go for his Phoenix Splash while Anderson was on top of a table. Gallows got involved, however, and grabbed Swann’s leg. This allowed Anderson to recover and deliver a top rope Gun Stun to Swann onto a table (that didn’t break) for the win.

    Bullet Club’s HIKULEO Walks Through The Forbidden Door

    David Finlay picked up a measure of revenge on Bullet Club this week. He scored a pin on Chris Bey moments after Juice Robinson thwarted Bey’s attempt to use the ropes for leverage on a pin attempt of his own. The real action came after the match, however.

    As FinJuice was celebrating their win, Bullet Club’s HIKULEO hit the ring and attacked. Bey and HIKULEO wrapped Juice’s injured knee in a chair and stomped on it. Bullet Club then celebrated in the ring to end the segment.

    Gambling Scandal Costs Petey Williams Match Against Steve Maclin

    Sadly, an underground gambling operation backstage in Impact has reared its ugly head. Backstage this week in Swinger’s Casino, TJP placed a bet on Steve Maclin in his match this week against Petey Williams. Then during the match, TJP led a conga line with Fallah Bah and No Way to the ring just as Williams was going for the Canadian Destroyer. This distracted Williams and allowed Maclin to hit his finisher for the win.

    Moose Defeats Eddie Edwards With Help From W. Morrissey

    Moose and W. Morrissey have aligned in Impact and have targeted Eddie Edwards and Sami Callihan. Edwards could have used Callihan’s help in this match as Morrissey’s interference on the outside allowed Moose to gain the advantage. He eventually put Edwards away with a spear. A melee after the match would eventually force Callihan to come to Edwards’ rescue, however.

    Eddie Edwards and Sami Callihan’s Uneasy Alliance

    After the match, a huge melee took place featuring the wrestlers scheduled for the 10-man tag match on next week’s show. Chris Sabin came out to make the save but was thwarted by Brian Myers and his “professionals.” Josh Alexander then came out to fight them off but he was then attacked by Ace Austin and Madman Fulton. Christian Cage then came out to take on Fulton and Austin. Edwards came in to help Cage with the numbers advantage but then Moose and Morrissey rejoined the fight and attacked him. This led to Alisha Edwards coming out with a kendo stick to try and help but was not overly effective at this. Morrissey was ready to pick her up for a choke slam when the lights went out. When the lights came back on, Sami Callihan was in the ring with two baseball bats. He gave one to Edwards and the two of them fought off the heels. Cage then played peace-broker between the two longtime rivals turned uneasy partners as the show came to a close.

    Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

    Much of this week’s episode featured Ace Austin and Christian Cage recruiting team members for a big multi-person tag match next week.

    Next Week:

    • Ace Austin, Madman Fulton, Brian Myers, Moose & W. Morrissey vs Christian Cage, Josh Alexander, Chris Sabin, & TBA

    Victory Road (September 18th)

    • Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Ace Austin
    • X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander (c) vs Chris Sabin
    • Knockouts Tag Team Championships
      Decay (Rosemary & Havok) vs Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans
    • Chris Bey & Hikuleo vs FinJuice (David Finlay & Juice Robinson)
    • Moose & W. Morrissey vs. Eddie Edwards & Sami Callihan
  • Bound For Glory Headed To Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas (10/23)

    Bound For Glory Headed To Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas (10/23)

    Impact Wrestling has announced the location and a special start time for their upcoming Bound For Glory pay-per-view.

    Impact’s biggest event of the year will take place Saturday, October 23rd from Sam’s Town Live! in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    The event will have a special start time of 10pm (Eastern).

    Bound for Glory 2021

    Before Bound For Glory, Impact has its Victory Road event set for Sept. 18. In the main event of that card, Christian Cage will defend the Impact World Title against Ace Austin. X-Division titleholder Josh Alexander will put his gold on the line against Chris Sabin.

    Also set for Victory Road will be a Knockouts Tag Team Title match between Decay and the team of Tasha Steelz and Savannah Evans. Also, Chris Bey and Hikuleo will meet FinJuice. Moose and W. Morrissey will take on Sami Callihan and Eddie Edwards.

    After Victory Road reaches its conclusion, Impact will start building towards Bound For Glory. With cross-promotion in full effect, it’ll be interesting to see if any surprises are in store for fans on Oct. 23.

    Impact Results (9/9): More Bullet Club Members Walk Through Forbidden Door
  • Impact Results (9/2): Tommy Dreamer vs Ace Austin Headlines

    Impact Results (9/2): Tommy Dreamer vs Ace Austin Headlines

    Tommy Dreamer vs Ace Austin headlined this week’s Impact Wrestling. The stipulation was that if Dreamer could defeat Austin, he’d be added to the world title match against Christian Cage at Victory Road.

    Impact Wrestling 9/2 Quick Results:

    1. Taylor Wilde, Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering defeated The Influence (Madison Rayne, Tenille Dashwood & Kaleb With a K)
    2. Decay (Black Taurus & Crazzy Steve) defeated Fallah Bahh & No Way
    3. X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander defeated Jake Crist
    4. Rohit Raju & Shera defeated Matt Cardona & Chelsea Green
    5. Ace Austin defeated Tommy Dreamer

    Taylor Wilde Teams With Grace & Ellering To Defeat The Influence

    T

    Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering recently came out to save Taylor Wilde from an attack by the newly formed “The Influence.” The consists of Tenille Dashwood, Madison Rayne, and Kaleb with a K. Finally, the heels would not have the numbers advantage against her here. Wilde got a measure of revenge against the Instagram-savvy trio this week, pinning Kaleb after a tornado DDT and German suplex.

    Don’t Cross The King and Queen, Drama King Matt & Deonna Purrazzo

    Footage of Deonna Purrazzo from this weekend’s two NWA events was shown. The Virtuosa defeated Melina at Empowerrr and then attacked Mickie James at NWA 73. She spoke to Gia Miller along with Drama King Matt backstage this week and said that nobody should cross the King and Queen.

    Decay Wins Tag Match, But Tasha Steelz & Savannah Evans Get In Cheap Shot

    Taurus and Crazzy Steve took on Fallah Bah and No Way this week. As No Way’s conga line was making its entrance, however, one member dressed up as a hamburger gave Rosemary a codebreaker. It turns out that hamburger was actually Tasha Steelz in disguise. Havok then chased Steelz but got caught by Savannah Evans on the stage area. Steelz and Evans were then chased away by Rosemary.

    Meanwhile, Crazzy Steve picked up the win for Decay in the ring by delivering a top rope DDT to Fallah Bah.

    Moose & W. Morrissey Align

    Two of the biggest heels in Impact Wrestling, Moose and W. Morrissey, appear to have aligned. Morrissey was being interviewed in the back this week but Moose interrupted to say they share common enemies in Eddie Edwards and Sami Callihan. Moose then came out later to call out Edwards. Morrissey then came out to give the heels the 2-on-1 advantage but Sami Callihan never came out to help Edwards.

    Eric Young Is Doing Somthing To Rhino

    After Rhino took the pin for his team in a recent tag-team title match, Eric Young feels that he must do something about a “sickness” that is within him. A vignette aired this week featuring Young saying he must cure Rhino. The video ends with Rhino being placed in darkness. It seems like a change could be coming to Rhino’s character soon.

    Jake Crist Returns, Answers Josh Alexander’s Open Challenge

    Former X-Division Champion Jake Crist returned to Impact Wrestling on this show. Josh Alexander’s Open Challenge was only open to former holders of the title, a requirement that Crist meets. Alexander picked up the win with Divine Intervention and then cut a promo after the match.

    Chris Sabin Challenges Josh Alexander

    As Alexander was being interviewed, another former X-division champion came out to challenge him. Chris Sabin came out and said if Alexander wants to be considered the greatest X-Division Champion of all time, then he’ll have to beat him. The match was later made official for Victory Road on September 18th.

    Brian Myers Cuts Most Of His Recruits

    Brian Myers cut all but two recruits for his crew of wrestlers who want to learn how to become just as “professional” as he is. Zicky Dice and Manny Lemons were the only ones to make the cut and will now seemingly be under Myers’ tutelage.

    Rohit Raju Pins Chelsea Green In Tag Action

    Chelsea Green and Matt Cardona teamed up to take on the team of Rohit Raju and Shera this week. After Shera refused to wrestle Green, Cardona hit him with Radio Silence. Raju then drove Cardona into the steel post, however, and then hit Green with a jumping knee and got the pin.

    A New Soul Becomes Su Yung’s Minion

    Last week, Brandi Lauren was attacked by Su Yung and the former Kimber Lee. This week, Lauren appeared in a creepy backstage vignette along with Yung and Lee. She was wearing the same makeup and appears to have been inducted into the group.

    The Good Brothers Address Rich Swann and Willie Mack

    After losing to Willie Mack and Rich Swann in a recent non-title match, the Good Brothers assaulted the team in a post-match beatdown. Willie Mack is now on the shelf with an injury after having been put through a table. Swann came out to confront the tag champs with a steel chair this week but was eventually subdued by security. Scott D’Amore late booked a bunkhouse brawl match between Swann and Karl Anderson for next week.

    Ace Austin Defeats Tommy Dreamer in the Main Event

    The stipulation here was that if Dreamer could beat Austin, he’d be added to the match at Victory Road with Christian Cage, making it a triple threat. Dreamer looked to have the match won with a cutter but Fulton put Austin’s leg under the rope to break up the pin. Dreamer then went to the outside to confront Fulton and drive him into a steel post. As Dreamer was getting back into the ring, however, Austin hit him with the Fold and picked up the win.

    Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

    Next Week:

    • Bunkhouse Brawl
      Karl Anderson vs Rich Swann
    • Moose vs Eddie Edwards
    • Chris Bey vs David Finlay
    • Rosemary vs Tasha Steelz
    • Steve Maclin vs Petey Williams

    Victory Road (September 18th):

    • Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Ace Austin
    • X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander (c) vs Chris Sabin
  • X-Division Title Match Added To Sept. 18 Victory Road Card

    X-Division Title Match Added To Sept. 18 Victory Road Card

    The Impact Victory Road card for Sept. 18 just got another title match.

    On the Sept. 2 edition of Impact Wrestling, Josh Alexander put his X-Division Title on the line in an open challenge. Jake Crist ended up accepting the challenge. Alexander defeated Crist to retain his gold.

    After the match, Alexander said he feels he has to be in the conversation for the greatest X-Division Champion of all time.

    Alexander was interrupted by Chris Sabin, who knows a thing or two about carrying the X-Division Title.

    Sabin showed his respect for Alexander. He went as far as to say Alexander is one of the best wrestlers he’s ever seen in the ring. With that said, Sabin let Alexander know that must beat him to be in that conversation as the greatest X-Division Champion of all time. Sabin laid down the challenge for Victory Road.

    Alexander shook Sabin’s hand, signaling an acceptance of the challenge. Now, Impact has made the match official.

    “BREAKING: Josh Alexander will defend the X-Division Championship against Chris Sabin at Victory Road on September 18th!”

    Headlining Victory Road will be an Impact Wrestling World Title match. Champion Christian Cage will put his gold on the line against Ace Austin.

  • Impact Results (8/26): Christian Cage Returns, The Good Brothers vs Swann & Mack

    Impact Results (8/26): Christian Cage Returns, The Good Brothers vs Swann & Mack

    Impact Wrestling on 8/26 featured the Good Brothers vs Willie Mack & Rich Swann in the main event, Mickie James was there to promote NWA Empowerrr this weekend, and Christian Cage returned to the Impact Zone.

    Impact Wrestling 8/26 Quick Results:

    1. Chris Sabin defeated Sami Callihan
    2. Chris Bey defeated David Finlay
    3. The Influence (Tenille Dashwood, Madison Rayne, & Kaleb with a K) defeated Taylor Wilde
    4. Willie Mack & Rich Swann defeated The Good Brothers (Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows)

    Chris Sabin Beats Sami Callihan

    The opener this week saw two of the promotion’s top-ranked singles wrestlers and former world champions go one-on-one as Chris Sabin faced Sami Callihan. Sabin somehow found the strength to kick out after Callihan hit him with a curb stomp and piledriver. Shortly after, Callihan just barely got his shoulder up on a pin attempt. He probably shouldn’t have taken a moment to confirm with the referee that it was only a 2-count, however, as Sabin quickly hit his Cradle Shock finish for the win after.

    After the match, Moose attacked and was about to inflict more damage on Callihan when Eddie Edwards made the save.

    Deonna Purrazzo, Melina, & Mickie James Build To NWA Empowerrr

    The Knockouts title will be on the line this weekend from St. Louis. Deonna Purrazzo will face Melina on the NWA Empowerrr show Saturday night. The Virtuosa and Mickie James came face to face this week, with James warning the champion not to underestimate Melina. She reminded Purrazzo that she will not have Drama King Matt’s help at Empowerrr like she did at Emergence. Purrazzo attacked James but Melina and Trey Miguel came out for the save.

    Chris Bey Defeats David Finlay

    David Finlay was likely wanting some revenge against Bullet Club here after dropping his match against Jay White at NJPW Resurgence recently. After a competitive and action-filled match, Bey rolled up Finlay and gained leverage by putting his feet on the ropes for the win.

    Christian Cage Returns To The Impact Zone

    Christian Cage returned to the Impact Zone this week. His next challenger for the title will be Ace Austin at Victory Road but Christian sounded quite confident that the former X-Division Champion doesn’t represent a significant threat to his title. Tommy Dreamer then came out and let Christian know that he wants to face him down the line but plans on earning his opportunity first. Ace Austin and Madman Fulton then came out and a melee ensued between the 4 men.

    Later in the show, Scott D’Amore announced that next week Ace Austin will face Tommy Dreamer in singles action. If Dreamer wins, he’ll be added to the match at Victory Road.

    Eric Young Blames Rhino For Loss At Emergence

    Rhino took the pin at Emergence, costing his Violent By Design faction a chance to regain the Impact tag-team titles. Eric Young was not happy about this. A vignette aired this week featuring Young telling Rhino he needs to cleanse him in the holy waters of change.

    Jordynne Grace & Rachael Ellering Come To Taylor Wilde’s Rescue

    Taylor Wilde had a tough task this week. She faced all 3 members of The Influence, Madison Rayne, Tenille Dashwood and Kaleb (With a K) Konley. Although Wilde got in some offence, she was eventually hit with a Spotlight Kick and pinned. After the match, the 3 Instagram-savvy wrestlers kept up the attack on Wilde until former tag champs Rachael Ellering and Jordynne Grace made the save.

    Su Yung & Kimber Lee Take Brandi Lauren’s Soul

    Brandi Lauren was being interviewed in the back when things took a turn. The lighting changed and it became clear that Su Yung and the now somewhat demonic Kimber Lee were going to attack. Gia Miller exclaimed that they needed to get out of there but it was too late. Kimber gave Lauren the mandible claw and took her into a room with Yung to end the segment.

    Willie Mack & Rich Swann Beat The Tag Champs

    Willie Mack and Rich Swann have likely earned a future shot at the Impact tag team championships after defeating the champs in non-title action this week. After a competitive match, Swann countered Karl Anderson’s Gun Stun into a pinning combination and got the 3-count. The Good Brothers were not good sports about the loss. They attacked Swann and Mack after the match. They tossed Swann into the steel post and gave Mack a Magic Killer before power-bombing him through a table. The Good Brothers stood tall to end the show despite losing the main event.

    Coming Up In Impact Wrestling

    Next Week:

    • Tommy Dreamer vs Ace Austin (If Dreamer wins, he’s added to the world title match at Victory Road)
    • The Influence (Tenille Dashwood, Madison Rayne, & Kaleb with a K) vs Taylor Wilde, Jordynne Grace and Rachael Ellering
    • Rohit Raju & Shera vs Matt Cardona & Chelsea Green
    • X-Division Championship
      Josh Alexander Open Challenge

    Victory Road (September 18th)

    • Impact World Championship
      Christian Cage (c) vs Ace Austin
  • Christian Cage & Ace Austin Meet Face-To-Face (Video)

    Christian Cage & Ace Austin Meet Face-To-Face (Video)

    Impact World Champion Christian Cage has gone face-to-face with Ace Austin and things got physical.

    Cage will be making his second Impact World Title defense at Victory Road on Sept. 18. He’ll be putting the gold on the line against Ace Austin, who won a fatal four-way match at Emergence to earn his title opportunity.

    On the Aug. 26 edition of Impact Wrestling, Cage and Austin exchanged words inside the ring. Austin confronted Cage and said the following.

    “You are the world champion. Got a pretty busy schedule too, don’t you? AEW, Impact Wrestling and making all the towns. Just like the old days, huh? But after Victory Road, your schedule’s gonna be a whole lot lighter, your bag is gonna be about 10 pounds lighter when you meet ‘The Inevitable.’”

    Cage responded by getting under Austin’s skin with a dig at his height.

    “Well Ace, ‘Mr. Inevitable,’ I’m glad you came out to introduce yourself, I really am. Now there’s no doubt about it you’re talented. You’re 24, you wanna be the youngest Impact champion in history. That’s great, set your goals high, kid. You might be the guy or think you’re the guy, but you’ll never be the man as long as I’m here. Now let me give you a little bit of advice, kid. Since you come out and talk such a big game. If you want these people to hang on your every word, make sure you stand on your tippy-toes so they can see your face over the top rope.”

    This led to both men brawling with Cage getting the better of Austin.

    Cage won the Impact World Title on the debut episode of AEW Rampage. He defeated Kenny Omega for the gold with a Killswitch on a chair, which Omega had intended to use but it backfired. Cage and Omega will meet again on Sept. 5 at All Out, this time for the AEW World Title.

  • Deonna Purrazzo Talks Getting Emotional Ahead of Triplemania Victory

    Deonna Purrazzo Talks Getting Emotional Ahead of Triplemania Victory

    There has been a lot written in the press recently about professional wrestling and tears. Wrestling unites people and when looked at objectively, is a very emotional event. You have heroes and villains, champions conquering the world and prodigal sons returning. This level of emotion is not just felt in the crowds, but by those performing in the ring. IMPACT Knockouts champion and new Reina de Reinas champion Deonna Purrazzo recently spoke about how she cried ahead of her Triplemania victory.

    Talking during an interview on Busted Open Radio, Deonna Purrazzo didn’t hide the fact that she got so emotional ahead of her win.

    “I cried, I cried before the match. I was just so worked up.”

    Deonna Purrazzo

    The wrestling life is not always easy, and it is not always kind. Deonna Purrazzo has not enjoyed an easy road to her current position. Despite being just 27 years old, Purrazzo has been pushed to the limit by her love of wrestling.

    Deonna Purrazzo Appreciates Where She is by Understanding Where She has Been

    After finding herself stagnating inside of WWE, Purrazzo made her way onto an IMPACT stage. From there she has moved from strength to strength and is growing in both character and confidence every week.

    “Like I love wrestling, I love wrestling so much. And it means so much to me to be put in these positions and for people to trust me in these positions and to get to do these cool life things. I wanted to do this my whole life. Especially more now I’m so appreciative of these opportunities because I came from a place where I wasn’t getting those opportunities and didn’t know if I wanted to wrestle anymore.” Deonna Purrazzo explained. “And the last two years of my life, I’ve just really embraced the opportunities and the gratefulness to get them. I always like to go out and just sit in the crowd when there’s no one, and just look around, look at the ring. I was crying all day because I was just like ‘oh shoot, this is so frickin’ cool.’”

    Right now, Deonna Purrazzo is a two-promotion champion, and has spoken of her interest in forming a forbidden door tag team with Britt Baker. She is also part of the upcoming NWA Empowerrr PPV. It’s safe to say she’s come a long way in recent years and has not yet even reached her prime.