Pat McAfee admits that he didn’t know every name involved with the 2024 Royal Rumble, but the NFL-punter-turned-WWE-commentator was impressed.
Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, the new WWE Raw color commentator noted that he was unaware of some stars in the respective Rumble matches, one was current TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace, who shocked everybody with her appearance.
“Jordynne Grace. I had no clue who that was. As I was going through Gorilla to get up and out … I see her, and I’m like, because she had a title around her and she was facing away, I’m like, ‘Holy f***. Who is jocked, absolutely jocked?’ Then I come out there, and they’re like, ‘TNA Knockouts Champion.’ It’s like, ‘Holy s***.’”
Pat McAfee Admits to Not Recognizing Jordynne Grace at WWE Royal Rumble:
“There were some people that came out; I had no idea who they were. I had no clue. I was looking over at the trons, and I’m like, ‘What’s the name here? What’s the name here?’ And [Michael] Cole and Corey… pic.twitter.com/MMheEwDx0b
Grace didn’t eliminate anyone in the Women’s Royal Rumble match, but she did last over 20 minutes before being taken out by Bianca Belair. She also had a memorable run-in with Naomi, who just this past month dropped the Knockouts Championship to Grace at TNA Hard To Kill.
It was reported by PWInsider that Grace’s appearance in the match was actually an overture made by WWE to TNA with one source even believing that Triple H was the catalyst behind it all happening.
Grace also recounted the phone call she received from Scott D’Amore asking if she’d be interested in working the match to which Grace was shocked about it all occurring,
McAfee also happened to be an entrant in the men’s Royal Rumble match, but when he realized he was going to have to go up against Omos and Bron Breakker, he swiftly eliminated himself.
Kazuchika Okada is going to be a free agent on Groundhog’s Day, and if one were to go by the 1993 movie with Bill Murray by that very name, one major wrestling company wants to tell “The Rainmaker” “I got you, babe.”
It was revealed on January 30 that Okada’s merchandise on Pro Wrestling Tees had been removed from the website and it led many to wonder what that could mean for the NJPW legend. Considering that PWTees has a strong relationship with AEW, the initial thought may be this is a sign that Okada is WWE bound, however, a new report from PWInsider thinks otherwise.
According to Mike Johnson, Okada evidently has a strong relationship with Matt and Nick Jackson of The Young Bucks and due to that, his sources lead him to believe that The Rainmaker will eventually become All Elite.
Okada’s agent happens to be pro wrestling super agent Barry Bloom. Bloom also represents The Young Bucks, Kenny Omega, Hangman Page and recent AEW signee Will Ospreay. Ospreay didn’t spend long at all on the free agent market and AEW was quick to ink him to a deal.
While Okada will be a free agent on Tuesday, he still has a major obligation to finish up with NJPW. On February 11, he’ll be facing off against long-time rivl and current NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi. Tanahashi has recently stated he wants to become the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion once again and additionally, has big plans for NJPW moving forward.
Seth Rollins further makes his case for Cody Rhodes to challenge him instead of Roman Reigns at WrestleMania and Ric Flair has taken note.
Rollins continued his campaign for Cody on social media as a compelling video package was put together by WWE with Rollins doing the narratiion and asking Rhodes what road he wants to take in finishing his story.
“Cody Rhodes – look in your heart and ask yourself what kind of champion do you want to be? Do you want to be like the Ultimate Warrior or do you want to be like The Nature Boy Ric Flair? Tell me, Cody, what kind of champion do you want to be?”
During the clip, it was highlighted how “The Nature Boy” was a staunch defending champion of the “Big Gold” during his Jim Crockett Promotions prime and although unprompted, Ric Flair looks to be in support of Cody choosing Rollins over Roman.
“The answer to that question is obvious! Just look at how Cody Rhodes styles & profiles! WOOOOO!”
During WWE Raw this past Monday, Rollins interrupted the 2024 Royal Rumble winner right before he was going to stake his claim for the WWE Undisputed Universal Title and pitched himself to The American Nightmare as the appropriate opponent for him at WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia.
While The WWE World Heavyweight Championship doesn’t have direct lineage to the original World Heavyweight Title in WCW, it sure bears a resemblence. Rollins may have invoked Ric Flair’s name during the video package, but he also spoke of Dusty Rhodes as someone whom held the “working man’s” title.
Pro wrestling fans are used to outsiders dismissing their fandom by talking down to pre-determined sports entertainment events. When the subject came up for Larry David, he admitted that the moment he figured out the results are prearranged, he became a big detractor.
Larry David Gives His 2 Cents On Pro Wrestling
During a recent interview on the Bill Simmons Podcast, Larry David touched on pro wrestling, but he didn’t have very nice things to say about it, or the fans who show up to watch events in person.
When asked why he still watches pro wrestling, Simmons, who is directing the upcoming Netflix Vince McMahon docuseries, replied that he’s been watching since he was a kid.
“Yeah, I watched when I was a kid too, and then I realized it was fixed, and I stopped watching,” the Curb Your Enthusiasm creator said. “They’re all the same, aren’t they? Every match looks the same.”
Bill Simmons tried to defend the storylines in pro wrestling, and the two-month character arcs that culminate into a big pay-per-view match, but Larry David didn’t seem interested. Instead, he focused on those fans who are under the mindset that it’s still real to them.
You’re watching at home, but the people there … [laughs] they think it’s real! The people there, are you kidding? They go crazy! They wouldn’t go crazy if they didn’t think it was real!
They continued a short debate on pro wrestling, but things didn’t get too heated. “I’m trying to,” Larry David responded when Simmons asked him if he was staging an intervention. This is a subject that David has tackled on his long-running HBO series, that is due to make its return for a 12th season on February 4th.
Simmons then said that he would make David watch the first episode of his six-part upcoming Netflix documentary on Vince McMahon, and he guaranteed that he would want to watch the rest of them. “Is it scripted?” Larry David asked, to which Bill Simmons said, “no.”
Dave Meltzer noted on Wrestling Observer Radio that the interview with Vince McMahon stood out as the most captivating aspect of the documentary. The project will also dive into Vince’s return and the subsequent merger of WWE and UFC into TKO Group Holdings. It appears that Netflix is fully committed to thoroughly narrating the intricate McMahon tale.
When this documentary started, ordered by Netflix years and years ago, obviously, this was not the end result that anyone imagined. It was going to be something that they did. And Vince told them that he does not want a fake documentary. And Vince was probably the most interesting interview on the documentary. I don’t know all the different people they talk to. I only know what I talked about. And they were told this was anything but meant to be a puff piece if it ends up being, perhaps, much of the documentary.
Simmons’ Vince McMahon docuseries on Netflix may be a massive deal, especially since the streaming service just secured the rights to WWE RAW and every premium live event for non-US subscribers in a massive deal that Larry David called “ridiculous.”
WWE fans saw a few surprises during the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. Tiffany Stratton’s appearance in the match may not have been a main roster call-up, but that time NXT may not last long for the former Women’s Champion.
WWE’s NXT brand may see the departure of one of its key stars, as Tiffany Stratton could be on her way to RAW.
PW Insider reports that there was backstage chatter at Monday’s Raw, specifically regarding Tiffany Stratton’s standout performance in the Royal Rumble match. The buzz has led to discussions about her potential transition to the Raw brand.
While not officially confirmed, there is speculation within the company that she might make her main roster debut as early as next month. If these discussions materialize, it could mark a significant shift in Stratton’s career and bring a fresh face to the Raw roster with a ton of potential.
It makes sense that WWE would put Stratton on the RAW brand, because she is in a real-life relationship with Ludwig Kaiser, and the company historically doesn’t like splitting up couples with brand lines.
Tiffany Stratton In NXT
Stratton joined WWE in 2021 after getting her initial training with of Greg Gagne. She held the title for 107 days, with her reign coming to an end after a loss to Becky Lynch last September at NXT Battleground 2023.
Although Tiffany Stratton is a former NXT Women’s Champion, they have kept her out of the title picture to a large extent since that Battleground loss. She has still remained a regular on the weekly television show.
In early January, Stratton concluded a feud with Fallon Henley in a unique “ranch hand or servant for a day” match at New Year’s Evil. That resulted in some notable vignettes of Stratton failing several ways while assisting on the ranch.
She is an incredibly talented wrestler and continues to make waves. After making her way into the Royal Rumble in the #29 spot, she certainly gained a lot of attention.
NJPW legend Kazuchika Okada will be a free agent in just a matter of days. As the wrestling world braces for news about his next career move, an announcement regarding his current line of merchandise being pulled has fans jumping to conclusions about what what this really means.
‘The Rainmaker’ will soon be able to see what his services are worth on the open market. In the increasingly competitive wrestling war between WWE and AEW, Okada is one of the most valuable pieces on the chess board.
Okada’s merch removed
Pro Wrestling Tees owner Ryan Barkan posted a message on social media on Tuesday evening announcing that all of Okada’s merchandise is being removed within 12 hours.
What does this mean?
Pro Wrestling Tees sells very limited merchandise for a few WWE Superstars, but they’re primarily a store selling merch for everyone else – All Elite Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, GCW, and countless other independent wrestlers and promotions.
Okada’s merchandise being pulled from PWT is not a confirmation that he’s headed to WWE. Whichever company signs Okada will immediately get to work slapping his likeness on everything from t-shirts to keychains.
Thankfully, Okada will be a free agent very soon. He’s working NJPW New Beginning on February 24, but could sign with another company as early as next week.
WWE has several soon-to-be big deals in NXT, and a few of them are ready for their spotlight right now. Although it may not be Trick Williams’ time yet, they are preparing him for big things internally.
Trick Williams Has Eyes On Him
Haus of Wrestling reports that the WWE SmackDown creative team was highly impressed with the crowd’s reaction to Trick Williams. Some influential figures within the company now believe that Williams possesses “future WrestleMania main eventer potential.”
One top WWE talent reportedly said that Trick has a “great attitude and skill set that he’s cultivating.” They are seeing a future with some positive outcomes for him.
Williams is set for significant momentum this week with two crucial matches. He teamed up with Carmelo Hayes in a Dusty Rhodes Classic semi-final match against the LWO this week on NXT. After winning, it was determined that the two will advance to the finals this Sunday at Vengeance Day, where they will face Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker.
Trick Williams’ Big SmackDown Reaction
This past Friday on WWE SmackDown, WWE NXT star Carmelo Hayes faced off against Austin Theory. The two men had a previous encounter a few weeks ago, but it was cut short due to a botched Avalanche Spanish Fly that worried a lot of people.
In their rematch, Austin Theory secured the win with the help of distractions from Grayson Waller and a roll-up involving a handful of tights. Following the victory, Waller and Theory initiated a beatdown on Hayes, prompting WWE NXT Star Trick Williams to make a save amid the crowd’s enthusiastic chants of “Whoop That Trick!” WWE higher-ups certainly noticed that reaction for Trick.
Damage CTRL leader Bayley recently gave a cheeky response as she was not included in WWE’s promotional banner.
‘The Role Model’ is heading to WrestleMania 40 after a historic win in Saturday’s 30-Woman Royal Rumble match.
Bayley, a multi-time Women’s Champion in WWE, has an opportunity to showcase that she’s still a champion material. She is eyeing to cement her legacy in WWE after winning the Royal Rumble, an achievement that has eluded her for a long time.
Bayley’s performance this past Saturday set a new record for the longest time spent a Women’s Royal Rumble at one hour and three minutes.
She entered at #3 following Natalya and the returning Naomi. After receiving some help from Damage CTRL teammates, Asuka and Kairi Sane, she eliminated Candice LaRae, Indi Hartwell, Maxxine Dupri and finally Liv Morgan to win the 7th Women’s Royal Rumble.
On January 30, WWE dropped the posters for their upcoming Road To WrestleMania tour with 2023 and 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes and 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Bianca Belair gracing them. It seems that didn’t set well with Bayley.
Bayley’s response
She quote-tweeted and gave a hilarious reply as she asked why the female superstar didn’t look like her. She wrote:
Bayley has secured a championship match at WrestleMania 40 with her victory. Bayley, the self-proclaimed ‘Mami-Slayer’ is eyeing to go up against Rhea Ripley for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania.
Having said that, a lot of people doubt that a Bayley-Rhea bout is in the works. Some have conjectured that the ‘Role Model’ might battle WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY at the two-night mega event in April, given the tensions within Damage CTRL.
Who will Bayley face at WrestleMania 40?
By winning the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble, Bayley earns the right to challenge for any championship at WrestleMania 40.
The two top women’s champions in WWE are Rhea Ripley (Women’s World Champion) and her Damage CTRL partner, Iyo Sky (WWE Women’s Champion).
Bayley announced that she will make her decision on who she will challenge at WrestleMania 40 on this Friday’s February 2 episode of SmackDown.
WWE fans have seen Sonya Deville on the screen as herself on Total Divas, but they are about to get another chance to see her flex that acting muscle.
Sonya Deville’s New Project
Deville is working on a movie in Florida. She’s taking on the role of a police officer in the film “DNA Secrets,” currently being shot in Clearwater. The movie, described as a murder mystery, revolves around the owner of an antique store, as shared by producer TJ Yates in a discussion with the Tampa Bay Times.
While speaking with 10 Tampa Bay, Deville commented on acting and highlighted how it’s different from performing in WWE.
“Obviously, the hustle and bustle, the hurry up and wait, the cameras, the memorization of lines, the having to constantly be ready and on, is very similar. I do have to say, I do like that in filmmaking you get more than one take. When you’re on Monday Night Raw or Friday Night SmackDown, it is live, live, and that is it.”
Deville experienced a torn ACL during the July 28th, 2023, episode of WWE SmackDown while being one-half of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions with Chelsea Green. Piper Niven stepped in to replace Deville due to her need for surgery. Deville has been on the path to recovery ever since.
WWE made a big change to the SmackDown announce team when they took Kevin Patrick off of his duties. It was confirmed a short time later that Patrick has been released from the company, but they still needed to figure out a replacement.
According to PW Insider, Wade Barrett has been moved over to SmackDown to replace Kevin Patrick. The new SmackDown announce team will be Corey Graves and Barrett.
The future broadcast team for WWE SmackDown involves Wade Barrett and Corey Graves. Graves is set to take on the lead announce position, while Barrett will continue in his role as a color commentator.
The reason given to me for Kevin Patrick’s removal was that it just wasn’t working out. Now, Barrett is taking that role for him.
WWE RAW’s New Announce Team
Pat McAfee was revealed as the new full-time announcer on RAW. He will sit alongside Michael Cole every Monday night to call the action in the ring. That helped facilitate this change for Barrett’s blue brand move.
Wade Barrett’s Career In WWE
Wade Barrett’s real name is Stu Bennett, which he has used for several projects outside WWE. He had a notable career in WWE as a Superstar as well.
He joined the company in 2007 as part of the developmental system, Florida Championship Wrestling, and he rose to prominence in the first season of NXT, as he won the competition.
Barrett later led the group known as The Nexus, making a significant impact in storylines. Throughout his WWE tenure, he engaged in various feuds and alliances, including commentator and an authority figure role.
After leaving WWE in 2016, Barrett pursued other ventures, contributing to his diverse career in the wrestling industry. He eventually returned to WWE in 2022, where he was placed on the NXT announce team. He was later placed on main roster commentary, and that is where we find ourselves today.
This week on Raw, Punk addressed the fans and said he will miss this year’s WrestleMania. Eventually, Drew McIntyre interrupted him and said that “I’m not a spiritual person, but I prayed for this to happen.” Then Punk said that he would be coming back for McIntyre when he returns.
It’s worth noting that McIntyre’s future in WWE is uncertain. His contract is not confirmed beyond April. Meanwhile, Punk’s return from injury is likely to be around in September. Now, the question stands what will be the future of the feud.
Uncertainty looms over CM Punk-Drew McIntyre feud
Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio reported that a reasonable timeline for CM to return is in September. Given Drew McIntyre’s contract status, doubt remains what the future holds for the storyline.
I’d say September is a reasonable return (for CM Punk). Which is interesting, really interesting, because they set up the big angle with Drew McIntyre tonight to be his opponent when he returns, and Drew McIntyre’s not under contract past April. And that has not changed. Which really surprised me when I watched it.”
This is not the first time Punk has suffered this injury. He has sustained a triceps tear at All Out in Chicago in 2022 during the main event against Jon Moxley. After immediate surgery, he remained inactive for over nine months and made his return for the debut of AEW Collision show. We will have to wait and see when he is able to return this time around.
Brock Lesnar was set for the 2024 Royal Rumble event, where he would have been a part of the big over the top rope match. He was replaced by Bron Breakker in that match, and now there is a lot of doubt that Lesnar will be back any time soon.
Brock Lesnar May Not Be Back In WWE
Lesnar’s name was not explicitly mentioned in the earth-shattering lawsuit that Janel Grant filed against Vince McMahon, WWE and John Laurinaitis. A former UFC Heavyweight Champion who was a WWE Superstar talking about a new contract at the time was mentioned. This didn’t paint Lesnar in the best light at all.
During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer mentioned that he has heard from some people who believe that Brock Lesnar may not ever be back in WWE. Then again, with a name that draws the kind of money that Lesnar does, you can never say never.
“As far as what happens next, I don’t know. It appears that Brock Lesnar is not going to be around for a while, some people think ever, you know, when it comes to talent I hate to say ‘forever,’ because it is almost never the case, because if someone can draw they almost always find their way back. As far as Vince, I cannot imagine Vince coming back this time.”
Brock Lesnar’s Link to Vince McMahon Lawsuit
The Janel Grant lawsuit did not specify a wrestler but described one as both a former UFC Heavyweight Champion fighter and WWE talent. Given the timeline of 2021, it’s relatively easy to narrow down those choices, although it’s important to note that Brock Lesnar was not explicitly named.
The lawsuit mentioned that McMahon shared explicit photos with the WWE Superstar, who stated, “he likes what he sees.” Four WWE Producers and television production techs were also alleged to have received this explicit content.
In March 2020, McMahon began sharing sexually explicit photographs and videos of Ms. Grant (including pornographic content he recorded) with other men both inside and outside the company, including with members of the television production “tech” team, executive(s), 4 producer(s), and a world-famous athlete and former UFC Heavyweight Champion with whom WWE was actively trying to sign to a new contract (and ultimately did sign that contract).
In December of the same year, McMahon allegedly provided Grant’s personal cellphone number to the unnamed WWE Superstar. The lawsuit claims that the wrestler requested a video of her urinating, and after she complied, he used derogatory language, calling her ‘b*tch.” She was also later informed that sleeping with this talent was part of his contract renewal, although a “play date” could not be arranged.
‘The Great One’ is certainly one of the biggest superstars of WWE and has tasted success outside the company as well. Whether as an actor in Hollywood or in his business ventures, The Rock has excelled in every aspect.
The former WWE Champion has a diverse business background that includes Seven Bucks Productions, Teremana Tequila, ZOA Energy, Project Rock, and the United Football League (UFL), a recently merged spring football league. He has also involved himself in revenue-generating opportunities in live events, media rights, sponsorship, licensing, and social media. In addition, he is among the most popular men on the planet with massive social media followers.
The Rock: I have the privilege now to sit at the table
Taking to Twitter/ X, The Rock once again cherished the huge opportunity that has come in his path. He posted a video capturing the moments from his TKO Board of Directors appointment and in the caption, he said that it was his “honor to join” TKO Board of Directors.
He believes that it was “an historic day of big business.” The Rock noted that the achievement holds “life comes full circle” significance for him. He added:
“I have the privilege now to sit at the table, that my grandfather and my dad helped to build. Now the fun part – we go to work. We build. Thanks to all you guys out there for your support and hype.”
He finally thanked TKO/WWE partners- Ari Emmanuel, Mark Shapiro, Nick Khan and Paul “Triple H” Levesque.
My honor to join @TKOGrp Board of Directors (parent co who owns @WWE@UFC)
An historic day of big business with deep and personal “life comes full circle” significance for me.
I have the privilege now to sit at the table, that my grandfather and my dad helped to build.
TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace was stunned when she learned that she’d be in the WWE Women’s Royal Rumble match and that she’d walk down the aisle.
During the post-Royal Rumble press conference, WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque shared his gratitude to TNA for allowing them to use Grace for the match. In a video shared by TNA’s Twitter account, Grace explained how her surprise appearance came together.
“Scott called me, I’d actually just landed from our tapings that we did in Orlando. And I was waking up and he called and he was like ‘Oh, how do you feel about wrestling this weekend?’ And I was just there thinking to myself ‘Oh my God, what does he want me to do?’
“And he was like ‘How do you feel about being in the Rumble?’ And I was like ‘What? What are you talking about?’ And he just said ‘Yeah, how do you feel about being in the Rumble?’ Did they ask? And he would go ‘No, they didn’t ask. I just want you to be there and jump the barricade.’ And honestly, that was more realistic to me than WWE calling TNA and being like ‘Can your Women’s Champion be in our Royal Rumble?’”
Kevin Owens’ efforts to regain the United States Championship were in vain at the Royal Rumble, and the Prizefighter walked into the match with a serious injury.
Owens unsuccessfully challenged U.S. Champion Logan Paul at last Saturday’s Premium Live Event. The Prizefighter had earned a shot at Paul by winning a tournament on SmackDown. Owens dispatched of Austin Theory and NXT’s Carmelo Hayes before defeating Santos Escobar in the finals on the New Year’s Revolution edition of SmackDown.
Kevin Owens Worked Hurt
Much of Owens’ storyline during the tournament and with Paul saw the Canadian wrestler deal with an ‘injured’ hand which resulted in KO wearing a cast. Despite this, F4W Online reports that Owens worked his match with Logan Paul at the Royal Rumble with a fractured foot injury. Owens reportedly suffered the injury during his tournament finals match with Escobar. While Owens had been in physical segments after suffering this injury, the match with Paul was his first actual match since the injury occurred.
Owens failed to capture the U.S. title at the Royal Rumble as he was disqualified. While Paul had introduced the brass knuckles into the match, Owens used them and the referee spotted them on KO’s hand during a pinfall attempt.
Kevin Owens and the U.S. Championship
In 2015, Owens made his WWE main roster debut by confronting then-U.S. Champion John Cena. After cleanly beating Cena in non-title action, Owens would fail to dethrone John at that year’s Battleground event. At WrestleMania 33 in 2017, Owens would win the U.S. Championship for the first time, defeating former ally Chris Jericho. After losing the gold to AJ Styles at a WWE MSG event, Owens would win it back at Battleground 2017 but lost the title back to Styles two days later on SmackDown.
Pat McAfee’s music surprised fans in Tropicana Field as he kicked off the Royal Rumble event. He joined Michael Cole and Corey Graves to call every match on the show, even the Men’s Royal Rumble, where McAfee had an impromptu appearance in the match. Now, he is back on WWE television on a weekly basis.
Pat McAfee Is Back on WWE Television
McAfee’s “Let’s Goooo!” music kicked off WWE RAW this week. This appearance was more than Royal Rumble fallout, because Cole and McAfee are back together.
Michael Cole was happy to announce that McAfee is now back on WWE RAW as a full-time announcer for the red brand. He will be joined by Cole on the show every week, and they were very happy about this reunion.
Cole and McAfee work together very well, because they are legit good friends. Cole has spoken on many occasions how close he is with McAfee, and now the two real-life friends get to talk about pro wrestling on RAW for three hours every week.
McAfee cut his teeth in WWE on the NXT brand. He not only got some commentary experience in, but he also had one impressive feud with Adam Cole, which resulted in a legit match. He later went on to become SmackDown announcer.
Austin Theory stepped up to face Pat McAfee at WrestleMania 38, in a match that was first thought to be Vince McMahon vs McAfee. That match was quite interesting, as it saw McMahon make his final WrestleMania appearance (probably ever) as he sold a Stone Cold Stunner like a lead balloon.
Since then, we’ve learned the new SmackDown announce team has been finalized:
Endeavor instituted two-man announce teams with their new set-up. It appears that three-man teams are out now, which is what helped lead to Michael Cole and Pat McAfee’s reunion on the red brand.
It was reported today that CM Punk suffered a triceps injury during the Royal Rumble match. There was no official confirmation from Punk or WWE. Then, the Second City Savior addressed the WWE Universe to kick off RAW this week.
Punk made his way to the ring with his right arm in a sling. After saying that he hopes Cody finishes his story, Punk said he never believed in luck, but he feels unlucky.
“In the course of the Rumble, I tore my right tricep,” Punk admitted. He thought about taping it to work on that injury, but WrestleMania is not in the cards for him. He said that maybe main eventing WrestleMania isn’t in the cards for him after all.
Fans cheered for CM Punk as he continued on and said this is just a bump in the road. He’s overcome adversity countless times in the past, and he doesn’t focus on people who tell him that he can’t. His promo, although the message was terrible that he will miss Mania, was very motivational.
Then CM Punk said, “there’s always next year,” before Drew McIntyre interrupted him. McIntyre could only relate to Punk’s heartbreaking career setbacks. Then he said that “I’m not a spiritual person, but I prayed for this to happen,” to get a big heel reaction from fans. Then Punk said that he’s coming back for McIntyre upon his return.
What’s Next for CM Punk?
At this time, we do not have an exact return timetable for CM Punk. We can only hope that he gets that WrestleMania match eventually, but this year’s show of shows isn’t happening for Punk.
Punk suffered a triceps tear at All Out in Chicago in 2022 during the main event against Jon Moxley. Following immediate surgery, he remained inactive for over nine months before making his return for the debut of the Collision show. Now, he is dealing with another similar injury.
The pro wrestling world was shaken up in a huge way when Janel Grant’s lawsuit against Vince McMahon was made public. This lawsuit, which alleges sexual abuse, extortion, and assault, could break the company wide open if private texts and emails are exposed for all to see. To prepare themselves for what’s to come, Nikki and Brie Bella are now speaking out.
The Garcia Twins Respond
The Bella Twins are no longer in WWE, as they allowed their contracts to expire. Now as the Garcia Twins, they are doing their thing in the public eye. After those damning allegations against Vince McMahon, Nikki and Brie had to speak up.
The official Twitter/X account for the Garcia Twins sent out a public announcement about the recent lawsuit and the mountain of allegations that it included. It was made very clear that the WWE Hall of Fame team do not condone anything that the earth-shattering lawsuit alleged, and they support women in every way that they can.
We are shocked and disheartened with the recent allegations against members of the WWE. It has been a lot to process since we found out this past week as you all did. This is something we don’t stand for or condone from anyone no matter who they are. We want all women to feel safe and supported in the workplace and in their everyday lives.
The Bella Twins’ Connection to Vince McMahon’s Big Lawsuit
That lawsuit from Janel Grant wasn’t just against WWE and Vince McMahon, because John Laurinaitis was also named as a defendant. Laurinaitis is also married to Nikki and Brie’s mother.
John and Kathy Laurinaitis were married in 2016, years before the allegations in that lawsuit allegedly took place. Their wedding was also used as a storyline device on Total Divas. As of this writing, Laurinaitis has not released any public statement on this matter, but Vince McMahon’s camp sent out a response of denial.
It was also made clear in McMahon’s statement after his resignation from WWE that he was still claiming total innocence from the allegations in Grant’s lawsuit. SE Scoops will have continued coverage of this story.
Allegations In Janel Grant’s Lawsuit
Former WWE employee Janel Grant has filed a lawsuit against McMahon, accusing him of sex trafficking. The lawsuit, filed on Thursday morning, alleges that McMahon, while serving as WWE’s Chief Executive, subjected Grant to sexual abuse and exploitation. The suit claims McMahon coerced her into sexual relations under the promise of career advancement and later trafficked her to other men within WWE.
Grant, who signed a nondisclosure agreement with WWE in 2022, asserts that she first encountered McMahon in 2019 in their shared apartment building. McMahon purportedly promised her work at WWE and showered her with gifts. The lawsuit further claims that McMahon pressured her into sexual activities to secure her a job. Grant was hired as an “administration coordinator” in June 2019, a position the suit alleges McMahon created for her under John Laurinaitis. However, she reportedly had little work, leading to complaints from other WWE employees and Grant feeling her job was undeserved.
Grant further alleges that McMahon sent explicit messages, increased demands for sex, and used “toys” forcefully during intimate encounters, causing injuries. She claims McMahon shared photos and videos of her with other WWE executives and wrestlers, recruiting others within WWE to have sex with her, including then WWE head of talent relations John Laurinaitis. The suit alleges Grant’s mental and physical health declined, leading to McMahon sending her to a “celebrity doctor” in November, with McMahon later paying $20,000 for surgery.
The lawsuit contends that Grant was transferred to the talent-relations division in May 2021, working directly under Laurinaitis. A month later, Grant alleges McMahon and Laurinaitis locked her in an office, sexually assaulting her in turns, followed by McMahon assaulting her again a week later.
Dutch Mantell has always gotten bad vibes when he was around Vince McMahon and the Memphis wrestling legend thinks with the latest allegations where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
On his “Story Time with Dutch Mantell” podcast, Mantell and his co-host covered the 67-page legal document of the horrific allegations McMahon has been accused of.and Dutch thinks with all the NDAs signed that where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
“If he’s already paid out that much money, he’s guilty.”
Mantell then pulls from his personal experience with Vince McMahon and how he got some different energy from McMahon.
“I think he’s guilty of all of this and Vince is not right. I’ve always detected a vibe around Vince that something is off.
“I didn’t know exactly what it was, but even talking to him sometimes, he’d look at you and you’d think, ‘What the f*** is he talking about?’ And then you get up and leave the room and you may not have even gotten an answer to the question you asked, but you got a lot of Vince’s vibe cause when he would walk into the whole room, the attitude in the room would change.”
Mantell then addresses the allegations that McMahon used sex toys on the victim, Janel Grant, named after WWE Superstars. Dutch believes this certain detail is so unique that nobody could conjure something up like that.
“This is only a detail that she would know. I mean, if I was a woman and I was making up stuff, I couldn’t even make that up so that’s what makes me think it’s real, that it really happened because that does sound like Vince.”
Mantell goes on to add that he doesn’t believe that we’ll see this matter go to trial and a settlement will be reached because other parties don’t want to be implicated and the damage is already done.
Please credit “Story Time With Dutch Mantell” and h/t to SEScoops for the transcription.
Becky Lynch is going around to make towns for her forthcoming book.
With her autobiography, “Becky Lynch: The Man” coming out on March 26, Lynch. revealed that she’ll be hitting several book stores to sign copies of the book in person with fans. Lynch posted the following on social media.
“I can’t wait to share my story, in person, when The Man’s book tour comes around starting March 26th!”
Lynch is set to appear at the following book stores starting on March 26, the day the book hits stores.
Becky Lynch Book Tour Dates & Cities
March 26 at 123:00 PM ET: Barnes & Noble, Fifth Ave., New York, NY
March 27 at 6:00 PM ET: Bookends, Ridgewood, NJ
March 28 at 7:00 PM ET: Washington, DC
March 29 at 12:00 PM ET: RJ Julia Booksellers, Madison, CT
April 2 at 6:00 PM ET: Barnes & Noble, Philadelphia, PA
April 13 at 2:00 PM PT: Barnes & Noble, The Grove, Los Angeles, CA
I can't wait to share my story, in person, when The Man's book tour comes around starting March 26th! pic.twitter.com/th7atUuHOr
Lynch was one of the few favorites to win the Royal Rumble and “The Man” made her run-in at #21 and lasted over 20 minutes in the bout before being eliminated by a returning Naomi and a debuting Jade Cargill. The winner ended up being Lynch’s fellow Four Horsewoman, Bayley who entered the match at #3.
Where Lynch may land for WrestleMania is currently undetermined, but with Bayley likely challenging her current Damage CTRL teammate Iyo Sky for her title, Rhea Ripley still needs an opponent.
As she continues the transition to life on WWE’s main roster, Ivy Nile looks forward to partaking in some major premium live events and wrestling some notable competitors from RAW and SmackDown.
During a recent conversation I had with Nile, she spoke about her aspirations on WWE’s main roster, citing a pair of powerhouses as women she’s particularly keen on working with.
“I love working with huge, strong women because I feel like I’m really good at breaking them down,” Nile said. “I’ve worked with Lash Legends a lot in NXT and some of my favorite fights have been with her. Rhea Ripley [as well]. I just love working with these strong big women because it makes me want to match their energy and match what they can do. I’m like, ‘You can do that, I can do that.’
So to name a few, Nia Jax maybe. Bianca Belair, we’re [from] the same Knoxville place. I don’t know if I want to go toe to toe with her, maybe team up with her, maybe. I think the sky’s the limit. I’ll go toe to toe with anyone. Just because they’re bigger than me doesn’t doesn’t mean anything.”
In addition to competing with more main-roster talent, Nile is also aiming to land a spot on some of WWE’s biggest events, such as Elimination Chamber, WrestleMania 40, and the 2024 Royal Rumble, which will take place on January 27.
“There’s so many things I’ve trained for that I didn’t know what was to come, but I’m ready for it,” Nile said. “So many people will be like, so you have this certain event in a couple of weeks, ‘Oh, I have to get ready.’ That’s not me. I’m ready.
It’s ambitious to say, this is my first year in, in RAW, we have Rumble coming up. We have Elimination Chamber coming up. We have WrestleMania. There’s so many things this year, dare I say, I want to get my hands on everything, but gosh, you just never know.”
NXT Standouts
While her focus on now centered on the main roster, Ivy Nile hasn’t forgotten about the up-and-coming stars in WWE NXT. In assessing the current landscape in NXT, Nile pointed out three competitors she has been particularly impressed with, all of whom Nile has previously shared a ring with.
“I worked with Fallon Henley a lot. I feel like she’s definitely starting to get more noticed and more eyes on her. And I think she is one of the sassiest and feistiest girls there. She definitely will pack a punch, let me tell you. We worked together a lot and she’s always just one of the hardest workers in the room. Kiana James is another one. To work with her, she is just incredible. She’s just always bringing out new things and just very, very fierce in everything that she does.
I think Roxanne Perez is also so, I wouldn’t say underdog at all, it’s just when you look at her, she just always surprises me in what she does. I can just feel her emotion and feel everything she’s doing. Every time I see her, she just elevates herself. And that’s so inspiring for myself to kind of just keep getting better if she’s elevating herself every single match. I think she’s amazing.
Read more from my interview with WWE Superstar Ivy Nile:
The 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble came equipped with several surprises, one of which was the return of Liv Morgan. The former WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion had been out of action since sustaining a second shoulder injury — an injury that later resulted in her being written off WWE television in late July 2023.
After six months on the shelf, Morgan resurfaced in WWE’s Women’s Royal Rumble match on January 27, entering the field from the number 30 position. Morgan was one of the final two competitors in the match, but was eliminated by the winner, Bayley.
During an interview with Denise Salcedo, Morgan commented on her return, sharing her excitement to being back in a ring.
“It’s been a journey the
last 6 months,” Morgan said. “It’s been a fight, it’s
been a struggle, so to come back at the
Royal Rumble in the coveted 30 spot, I
was very happy. I felt honored and
just happy to be back, happy to be back
doing what I love, doing my thing, came
really really really close, but I am
happy for Bayley, nonetheless.”
Despite a lengthy absense from WWE due to injury, Morgan returned to action just in time to keep an impressive Royal Rumble streak in tact.
“Last year
I came very close as well. I was also a
runner-up last year when Rhea beat me. I think Nattie and I are the
only superstars in WWE to be in all
seven women’s Rumble match, so I am a
little bit of a veteran in this match. Maybe next year will be my year.”
Liv Morgan Channels Christina Aguillera
Morgan paid homage to singer Christina Aguilera’s outfit from her Dirrty music video with her ring gear in the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble:
CM Punk had his first match on WWE television at the Royal Rumble, but sadly, that resulted in an injury. Now, there is a plan for Punk, but it doesn’t include wrestling right away.
CM Punk is Injured
According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Select, over the weekend, WWE had concerns about a potential significant injury to CM Punk. It was previously reported that Punk suffered a triceps injury, with PW Insider suggesting that surgery might be necessary, projecting a prolonged absence extending beyond WrestleMania.
Although information about Punk’s triceps injury was reported, there’s no official confirmation from Punk or WWE. At this time, fans should still expect to hear from Punk this week on RAW.
Punk suffered a triceps tear at All Out in Chicago in 2022 during the main event against Jon Moxley. Following immediate surgery, he remained inactive for over nine months before making his return for the debut of the Collision show.
WWE’s Plan For CM Punk On RAW Tonight
It is reported that Punk is currently listed for tonight’s WWE RAW, where it’s anticipated that he will address the reported injury. Internally, he was planned to face Seth Rollins at WrestleMania, who is dealing with a torn MCL and meniscus.
During the conclusion of the WWE Royal Rumble match, a WWE referee checked on CM Punk, inquiring about the need for medical attention. Punk declined, expressing his intent to complete the match. There’s no information suggesting that Cody Rhodes’s Royal Rumble win was a result of Punk’s injury.
WWE’s WrestleMania Plan For CM Punk
This is terrible timing for CM Punk, because he was set to take on Seth Rollins at WrestleMania. Now, with Punk out of the mix, they will need to figure out a new match for the Visionary.
The ‘Road To WrestleMania’ may look bleak for WWE superstar CM Punk. He competed at WWE Royal Rumble on January 27 for the first time in over a decade and looked in good shape. However, fans noticed he favored his arm in the Men’s Royal Rumble Match.
According to PWInsider, Punk suffered a torn triceps during Saturday’s Royal Rumble match. Sources indicate that he will need surgery, which would keep him out for 4-6 months.
‘The belief among sources we have spoken with is that post-surgery, CM Punk would likely need in the area of 4-6 months of recovery and physical therapy.’
Punk is expected to address the WWE Universe on the January 29 episode of Monday Night Raw from Tampa, FL.
How did CM Punk’s Injury Occur?
Fans have pointed out that Punk looked hurt after he took a Future Shock DDT from Drew McIntyre in the Men’s Royal Rumble match. The report noted that Punk allegedly told a referee during the match that it was his tricep.
CM Punk might've injured his arm last night #RoyalRumble
he was clutching his right arm after the DDT and spent several minutes in the corner having a lengthy chat with the referee. hopefully it's nothing serious. pic.twitter.com/yPf7ZS3hqz
PWInsider has confirmed CM Punk did suffer a torn triceps during the Royal Rumble, likely on a Future Shock DDT from Drew McIntyre, and will need surgery. His Wrestlemania hopes have been dashed. Thankfully for WWE, they have a deep bench, but that’s a huge blow to that card.
While it seemed WWE was leaning towards a Punk and Rollins showdown at WWE WrestleMania 40, they have also teased WWE Intercontinental Champion Gunther as the title challenger. On the January 22 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, ‘The Ringe General’ had an in-ring segment with Rollins and showed interest in becoming the WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
Although Punk vs. Rollins may have been in the works, a potential title vs. title match between Gunther and Rollins could make for a big program for WWE WrestleMania 40. If Punk is injured, hopefully, he can fully recover and reignite his feud with Rollins later this year.
WWE saw a few surprises during the 2024 Royal Rumble event. Naomi and Andrade both returned to the company, and now we have an update on what is next for them.
Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that Andrade was scheduled for tonight’s WWE Raw. Charlotte Flair, who advocated for his return, showed support backstage at the WWE Royal Rumble, as she helped prepare him for his big moment.
Charlotte, who is on the Smackdown brand, is currently sidelined with a terrible knee injury. She may be out for about a year at this point, so the fact that they are on different brands isn’t a big deal.
Having previously performed in TNA under her real name, Trinity, Naomi openly communicated her return to WWE and likely participation in the Royal Rumble. TNA sources reportedly mentioned that it became apparent by the start of the year that Naomi would be concluding her time with TNA.
WWE maintained interest in Naomi for over a year, but due to an informal hiring freeze, her return was delayed until after her TNA obligations were fulfilled. Now, she is back, and ready to battle on the blue brand, where her husband, Jimmy Uso, is still a top act as part of The Bloodline.
