SEScoops

Category: WWE

  • WWE Higher-Up is “Confident” Naomi Will Return in Time

    WWE Higher-Up is “Confident” Naomi Will Return in Time

    WWE Superstar Naomi’s return to the promotion is just a matter of time, according to one higher-up with the promotion.

    Naomi walked out with Sasha Banks (now NJPW’s Mercedes Moné) during the May 16, 2022, episode of Monday Night Raw, over a creative dispute with Vince McMahon.

    Naomi and Mone felt that the planned feuds they were going to be in for the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships devalued the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles they had won at WrestleMania 38.

    Confident

    It is far too late for WWE to get Moné but there’s still time to win over Naomi.

    One WWE higher-up who spoke to Fightful Select said they are “confident” she will be returning to the promotion.

    The report adds that prior to the May 2022 walkout, Naomi’s contract was coming up and that she and WWE were excited for her to sign a new deal.

    The new contract Naomi was on the cusp of signing was likely the biggest money deal the former SmackDown Women’s Champion had ever seen from WWE.

    Naomi has reportedly kept positive contact with WWE despite the walkout and some have speculated that she could be part of next week’s Bloodline Acknowledgement Ceremony (as she is married to Jimmy Uso.)

    The higher-up who is confident of her return did not provide a timeline for when fans can expect Naomi back on TV.

    Naomi Outside of WWE

    It has been over seven months since Naomi walked out, but she has been busy in this time.

    In September 2022, Naomi and Moné walked the runway for New York Fashion Week, a first for both women.

    The pair also appeared at the premieres for Marvel film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and walked the (green) carpet for the premiere of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.

    The Glow made the trip to Japan earlier this month to watch Moné’s debut for New Japan at Wrestle Kingdom 17.

    WWE Statement on Sasha Banks & Naomi Walking Out of Raw
  • Sami Zayn: Becoming WWE Champion is “Not Totally Unrealistic”

    Sami Zayn: Becoming WWE Champion is “Not Totally Unrealistic”

    Sami Zayn may be the Bloodline’s Honorary Uce, but recent comments may have jeopardized that position.

    Zayn has been associated with the group for close to a year now and has routinely helped out other faction members in matches.

    The Canadian wrestler has had some tensions with the group, most notably with Jey Uso last year who didn’t believe he belonged.

    Becoming WWE Champion

    As a member of the Bloodline, Zayn’s role is to protect Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns from all potential challengers.

    With that in mind, Zayn has dreams of becoming WWE’s top champion himself, as he explained to the Detroit News.

    “When you get this close and you’re in the in the periphery of the WWE title, it makes you think, well, I’m already here, maybe winning it’s not totally unrealistic. That would for sure be like a cherry on top of everything else. If it happens, awesome. If it doesn’t happen, it still would have all been awesome.”

    Sami Zayn.

    Zayn’s former best friend Kevin Owens will face Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship next weekend at the Royal Rumble.

    While Zayn hasn’t been declared yet for the Men’s Rumble match, some are considering him a dark-horse favorite in the 30-man bout.

    Reflecting on his Career

    Prior to coming to WWE in 2013, Zayn worked as El Generico in various promotions and has had plenty of success both in and out of the mask.

    Reflecting on what he’s accomplished, Sami is proud of what he’s done, even though he is yet to have a WWE World title reign to his name.

    “Whatever happens, I’m good. It could end tomorrow, and knock on wood, I really hope it doesn’t, but I would feel very complete and very satisfied with everything I’ve ever done.”

    Sami Zayn.
    Is Sami Zayn the “Top Performer in the Entire Industry?”

    h/t – Fightful

  • Ric Flair Doesn’t Like Women Bleeding In Wrestling, Wants Men To Do It More

    Ric Flair Doesn’t Like Women Bleeding In Wrestling, Wants Men To Do It More

    WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair doesn’t like seeing women bleed in professional wrestling – but wants men to do it more.

    Flair recently took to his podcast, “To Be The Man,” and touched on the subject of bleeding in pro wrestling. “The Nature Boy” admitted he doesn’t like seeing women bleed inside the ring, suggesting he’d hate seeing his own daughter, SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair, bleed if she were in that situation.

    He did add, however, that he does believe men in professional wrestling should do it more, especially when it comes to cage matches.

    “I don’t like it,” Ric Flair said. “I mean, I guess everybody’s got their own opinion, but I certainly wouldn’t want to see Charlotte bleeding. I think there should be more with the guys. No matter how you look at it, how do you put two people in a cage match?

    “Ten years ago, every time we hit the cage, we’re bleeding. Now nothing happens. That’s one thing I don’t like. I don’t like the girls in a cage match for sure because I think it limits their ability, their athleticism, and their ability to do athletic things like off-the-top rope and that.”

    Ric Flair after his last match

    Flair himself has seemingly doubled down on his retirement from professional wrestling. After wrestling his “Last Match” last year, Flair seemed to flirt with the idea of coming back for another match. However, Flair recently clarified that he has no desire to wrestle again at this point in time.

    Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

  • D-Von Dudley Announces His WWE Departure

    D-Von Dudley Announces His WWE Departure

    D-Von Dudley, real name Devon Hughes, has announced that he is no longer with WWE. 

    Following a run with Bubba Ray Dudley from 2015-2016 in WWE, D-Von retired from in-ring action to start working as a producer for WWE and later as an NXT trainer. 

    As part of The Dudley Boyz tag team, he wrestled for ECW from 1995 to 1999 and WWE from 1999 to 2005 as D-Von Dudley and Reverend D-Von. He performed for TNA from 2005 to 2014 as Brother Devon and Devon.

    He labeled the departure a mutual decision and thanked Vince McMahon, Paul Levesque, and Stephanie McMahon. You can read his statement below: 

    The Statement

    “The company (WWE) and I have decided to parted ways, and feel this is the best Decision for all parties it’s been a pleasure and an honor to work with the young talent when bubba as well as everyone over in NXT. As well as working with some of the best producers in the world. would mike to thank Vince , Paul (HHH), Stephanie, and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the Opportunity that was given. I’m very excited to see where God brings me next, Oh my brother……. TESTIFY!!!!”

    His sons Terrence and Tyrell have worked on the AEW YouTube shows and on the independent wrestling scene. He had publicly hoped to have them join NXT one day to wrestle.

  • Bret Hart Opening Hitman’s Bar Next Month in Calgary

    Bret Hart Opening Hitman’s Bar Next Month in Calgary

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret “Hitman” Hart is getting into the bar business.

    The seven-time world champion has announced Hitman’s Bar is coming soon to his hometown of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

    According to Hart, the establishment will be “a place to gather, enjoy a great meal, live, laugh, and celebrate.” The establishment opens next month (February 2023) and grand opening details are coming soon.

    Hitman’s Bar already has a Twitter account set up, which you can follow at @Hitmansbar.

    We’ll provide an update when more information is available.

    Bret Hart-Themed Drinks

    Hitman’s Bar is not the first time Hart has dabbled in the world of adult beverages.

    In 2018, Calgary’s very own Village Brewery released a citrus hibiscus ale called, The Village Hitman Citrus Hibiscus Ale. The brewery described the beer as follows:

    “Like a sharpshooter, the Hitman takes you by surprise. Unlike his contenders, he’s not bitter. Instead, this champion has a subtle bite; a citrus tang of orange and lemon tag teamed with hibiscus and fragrant hops. It catches you off guard. Before you know it, the Hitman has a hold on you.”

    Bret Hart Beer

    More recently, Hart teamed up with Alberta-based Romero Distilling Co. on a special promotion for their dark rum.

    Mockery Brewing Co. out of Denver, CO also has a Hart-themed drink, Brett The Hopman Tart, a Tart Bourbon Barrel-Aged Sour IPA. Hart is not affiliated with this one.

  • Reason Why WWE Announced Cody Rhodes’ Return in Advance of Royal Rumble

    Reason Why WWE Announced Cody Rhodes’ Return in Advance of Royal Rumble

    Cody Rhodes will return to the ring at the WWE Royal Rumble event. WWE confirmed the news on Monday’s Raw, where they aired a video package showing Cody’s rehab since suffering a torn pec several months ago. 

    In the video, Rhodes stated that he plans to become a World Champion in WWE. The first step in that direction is by winning the men’s Royal Rumble match. 

    WWE has been airing these types of videos since last month. Many people were surprised to see the company make the announcement instead of saving his return as a surprise. 

    The Reason

    WrestleVotes reported today that WWE knew everyone was expecting to see him return at the event, and they’re more than pleased with other surprises they have so they decided to announce it.

    “Asked a source the reasoning behind Cody’s Rumble return being announced as opposed to a surprise…Source said it’s twofold, one being that nearly everyone expected it to happen already & two, source states they are “more than pleased” w/ the other surprises that are lined up.”

    GUNTHER, Austin Theory, Kofi Kingston, Ricochet, Seth Rollins, Bobby Lashley, Baron Corbin, Santos Escobar, and Rey Mysterio are the other names confirmed for the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match. 

  • Will Ospreay Would ‘Love’ Match With Seth Rollins

    Will Ospreay Would ‘Love’ Match With Seth Rollins

    Will Ospreay still wants to share the ring with WWE’s Seth Rollins.

    Ospreay has been very vocal about his desire to wrestle against WWE’s “Architect” in recent weeks. He was asked about these aspirations during a recent appearance on The Sessions with Renee Paquette.

    Despite the fact that both men are currently wrestling for different promotions, Ospreay says he wants to make it work while the potential window for such an arrangement is still open.

    “I would love to do it. I liked Seth before he was Seth. I liked him when he was Tyler Black. I used to think he was a good wrestler in Ring of Honor, and I think he still is a good wrestler. So if there was a chance of making it work, I’d absolutely love to make it work.

    “It’s just, we are bound by contractual obligations that say that we can’t do it. But I don’t know. I feel like the doors are slowly opening to other exports, and maybe things can happen here and there. But I don’t know. A little bit, like someone opened a window, but not the good window, like that little small bathroom [window].”

    Seth Rollins
    (via WWE)

    The history between the two men began back in 2019, when a Twitter feud between Ospreay and Rollins broke out. Since, Ospreay himself has said that he’s put that behind him, however, he can’t ignore that there’s a story to be told inside the ring given the history.

    However, given the current state of confusion surrounding WWE at the moment, any such crossover bout likely won’t be in the cards any time soon.

    Quotes via WrestleZone

  • Vince McMahon Reaches Multi-Million Dollar Settlement with Former WWF Referee

    Vince McMahon Reaches Multi-Million Dollar Settlement with Former WWF Referee

    WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon has settled with former WWF referee Rita Chatterton after years of sexual assault allegations.

    Chatterton has spoken publicly for decades about McMahon’s alleged assault on her. In 1992, Chatterton appeared on Geraldo Rivera’s talk show and went into detail about McMahon’s assault. She shared that he used his power over her as an employer and forced her to give oral sex.

    At the time, she said, “…I was forced into oral sex with Vince McMahon. When I couldn’t complete his desires, he got really angry, started ripping off my jeans, pulled me on top of him, and told me again, If I wanted a half-a-million-dollar contract, I have to satisfy him. He could make me or break me, and if I didn’t satisfy him, I was blackballed,” said Chatterton.

    The World Street Journal’s Joe Palazzolo and Ted Mann report that McMahon and Chatterton settled with Chatterton last month. Last November, Chatterton’s attorney sent a legal demand letter seeking $11.75 million in damages. However, the report states that Chatterton “…agreed to a lesser amount in the millions of dollars, one of the people familiar with the matter said.”

    McMahon’s lawyer Jerry McDevitt shared with The World Street Journal after the settlement that “Mr. McMahon denies and always has denied raping Ms. Chatterton. And he settled the case solely to avoid the cost of litigation.”

    What’s Next For Vince McMahon?

    The report shared that McMahon is still facing potential legal troubles with a former Spa Manager he allegedly assaulted at a California resort. The World Street Journal’s Palazzolo and Mann reported on Dec. 13, 2022, that McMahon’s attorneys were talking with the Spa Manager. They added that it’s unclear the negotiation status between McMahon and the former Spa Manager.

    McMahon is also dealing with a lawsuit from WWE investors and stockholders for his return to the WWE. They alleged that McMahon went against the interest of his business partners and forcefully reclaimed his position in the company after retiring following alleged sexual misconduct with employees on July 22, 2022.

    The WWE Chairman claims he returned to the company to help it negotiate a new TV deal or potentially sell WWE to buyers. McMahon’s legal troubles could halt WWE’s opportunity to sell, forcing McMahon to try to reach settlements to avoid going to court.

    For much more on the Vince McMahon-Rita Chatterton abuse allegations, we recommend this 1-hour video by POST Wrestling featuring wrestling historian David Bixenspan:

  • Batista on His First WWE World Title Win: “I Was So Unprepared”

    Batista on His First WWE World Title Win: “I Was So Unprepared”

    Batista (Dave Bautista) is one of the biggest stars to come out of WWE over the past 20 years. Throughout his WWE career, he racked up six world title reigns, won the Royal Rumble twice and was a founding member of the Evolution faction.

    It’s hard to think of The Animal as anything but a main event star, but even he was a rookie at one point. He wrestled in WWE developmental as the demonic character Leviathan. In May 2002, he made his main roster debut as Deacon Batista, an enforcer for Reverend Devon, a short-lived gimmick by tag team legend Devon Dudley.

    It didn’t take long for WWE officials to see Batista’s potential. Less than three years later, he was handed the keys to the castle and defeated Triple H in the main event of WrestleMania 21 to win his first World Heavyweight championship.

    Earlier this week, Batista celebrated his 54th birthday. To mark the occasion, he looked back on his first world title victory. It was a special moment he’ll never forget. Despite the fact that everything turned out just fine for him, he admits he was completely unprepared for that achievement and all the responsibility that would soon be placed upon him.

    “I just really wanted to make a living and be able to support my family. Being champion, being on top of the company, was something that was beyond my dreams.”

    Batista got emotional while watching the final moments of his WrestleMania 21 encounter with Triple H. Never in his wildest dreams did he expect to be the top guy in WWE. He is honored that Vince McMahon and others had faith in him, but he believes he was wholly unprepared for what was coming.

    “I can’t believe this is happening at this point, because this happened so fast, where I went from being a guy in the background who they never had any big plans for, to being the top guy in the company. Now I’m the flagship. Now I’m out here holding the belt and there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with that. I was just so unprepared. I was not prepared for what was coming my way.”

    Batista and Triple H
    (Photo: WWE)

    Unexpected Success

    In the early days of his run with WWE, Batista was just happy to be employed. At times, he felt he could get fired at any moment. The last thing he expected was to be ‘the guy.’

    “Triple H was my mentor. He groomed me as best as he could up until then. There just came a point where.. I was on top now and so I had to come into my own. It was still a lot of learning lessons after this, but I was thrown into the deep end. I didn’t plan on this, so watching it makes me emotional. I just never planned for this. When I was wrestling, I was just happy to have a job. I was thinking, ‘I’m going to lose my job any day,’ so becoming the world champion was something I just never imagined.

    It’s weird, they always say, ‘Why do you want to be there if you don’t want to be champion? Just because, I was content just having a job. I just really wanted to make a living and be able to support my family. Being champion, being on top of the company, was something that was beyond my dreams.

    So with me, it’s always baby steps. I find things by accident, almost and then I chase them. Once I find something I really love, I’ll put everything I have into it. I put blinders on and sometimes thats been a fault. I’ve sacrificed some things because of that, but also my life is what it is because of it. But this is still surreal.”

  • GUNTHER on Potential Brock Lesnar Match: “I Would Gladly Take It”

    GUNTHER on Potential Brock Lesnar Match: “I Would Gladly Take It”

    GUNTHER has continued to be pushed as a top star on the main roster that he had been in WWE NXT UK and NXT. 

    GUNTHER is the reigning WWE Intercontinental Champion, having held the title for over 200 days. His most recent title defense came when he defeated Braun Strowman on the January 13 episode of WWE SmackDown.

    GUNTHER would welcome a match with Brock Lesnar, something he discussed while speaking with Tim Battle & Eli on the Battleground Podcast.”

    GUNTHER on the Match

    “Yeah, definitely. To get the opportunity to prove myself in that scenario would be fantastic. When I started as a wrestler and got back into wrestling, I always watched Brock’s matches because they are fantastic, they stand out right away. There is nobody like him. I always like those characters. Most of the people doing this who are successful, there is no copy of them. He’s always been a great wrestler, and from when I grew older in my career, I was able to analyze the work and understand the psychology and stuff. You can tell he’s one of the best to ever do it. If I get a chance to get in the ring with him, I would gladly take it.”

    Lesnar hasn’t wrestled since WWE Crown Jewel 2022 when he defeated Bobby Lashley. GUNTHER may have his wish granted by Triple H if WWE stays with its internal plans for him at an upcoming event. 

    H/T to Fightful for the transcription

  • Shawn Michaels on the Early Days of WWE Raw & the Challenges of Live TV

    Shawn Michaels on the Early Days of WWE Raw & the Challenges of Live TV

    Shawn Michaels has been a part of WWE for a long time and he has seen the company go through many monumental changes. Perhaps the biggest one was when the promotion shifted from taped shows to live television with the January 11, 1993 episode of Raw. HBK not only witnessed this change but he was a part of it. He was one of the talents who wrestled on the very first live episode of the red-branded show, defending the Intercontinental championship against Max Moon.

    The former world champion and Shelton Benjamin were the latest guests on The Bump. Celebrating 30 years of WWE’s flagship show, the duo discussed the various stages of Raw’s evolution. Reflecting on the shift to Live Television, Michaels explained the biggest challenge of it was communicating the transition to commercials:

    “Live television, of course, Shelton can attest to, we’ve come a long way now as far as you know commercial breaks and how you get there, the timing and stuff like that.” said Shawn Michaels, “So honestly that was the most difficult transition is understanding the live television, going to commercials, coming back from commercials.

    The way you communicate knowing when you’re in commercials and out of commercials. You have all these things that are already running through your head in a wrestling match, the added element of live television was something that was truly fascinating and ground-breaking at the time for me. But again, all of it, a wonderful journey to [have] been able to [be] part of.”

    WWE will be celebrating Raw’s 30th anniversary during the January 23 episode of the show. Apart from Shawn Michaels, the episode will feature legends such as The Undertaker, Ric Flair, Kurt Angle and many more.

    You can check out full episode of The Bump featuring Michaels below:

    If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

  • Roman Reigns Breaks GUNTHER’s Impressive WWE Record as Champion

    Roman Reigns Breaks GUNTHER’s Impressive WWE Record as Champion

    Roman Reigns has added yet another milestone to his impressive run on top as the  Undisputed Universal Champion.

    At Payback 2020, Reigns became the Universal Champion when he beat Bray Wyatt and Brown Strowman in a No Holds Barred Triple Threat Match.

    He later scored a victory over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 38 last year. Reigns became the first star to hold both the WWE and Universal Championships simultaneously.

    The Stat

    Wrestling Stats & Info on Twitter noted that Reigns has now been the Universal Champion for 871 days, surpassing GUNTHER’s 870-day NXT UK Title reign.

    “Today, @WWERomanReigns’s active reign as Universal Champion (2020-Present) reaches 871 days, surpassing @Gunther_AUT’s NXT UK Title reign (2019-2021) for the longest single/consecutive championship reign in the entire @WWE Universe in the last 35+ years. #HeadOfTheTable.”

    Throughout his time as the Universal Champion, Reigns has defended it against some of the biggest names in the company, including John Cena. Reigns will make his next defense as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion against Kevin Owens at the Royal Rumble next weekend. This is a rematch from the 2021 event where Reigns won their Last Man Standing Match. 

    GUNTHER is currently the Intercontinental Champion and is slated to work the 30-Man Royal Rumble match.

  • Longtime Indie Talent to Help With The WWE Royal Rumble

    Longtime Indie Talent to Help With The WWE Royal Rumble

    WWE is bringing in an outside name to help with this year’s Royal Rumble event, and that’s Jason Cade. 

    Fightful Select reported today that the indie wrestler will be working as a producer for the company, specifically in helping produce the 30-Woman Royal Rumble Match next week. 

    The report noted that WWE Producer Tyson Kidd was said to be instrumental in helping Cade come in, as Kidd usually produces women’s matches in the company, including the Royal Rumble match. 

    Jason Cade’s Background

    Cade has trained alongside Kidd and Natalya in the past. Last month, Cade noted on Instagram that he was leaving Orlando to move to Los Angeles so that he can pursue his dreams.

    Cade hasn’t wrestled for quite a while after breaking into the business in August 2012 after training under Norman Smiley, who currently works at the WWE Performance Center. 

    Throughout his in-ring career, Cade has worked for numerous promotions over the years, such as CZW, EVOLVE, GCW, GFW, Impact Wrestling, MLW, Lucha Underground, PWG, ROH, WWN Live, and others.

    In 2020, Cade worked two WWE matches where he lost to Aleister Black (Malakai Black) on the March 30, 2020, Raw episode, then lost to Ariya Daivari as a part of his $10,000 Challenge on the September 18, 2020 edition of WWE 205 Live. 

    He also worked two matches for AEW that same year as current AEW All-Atlantic Champion Orange Cassidy defeated him on the May 12, 2020 edition of AEW Dark, and Marko Stunt on the May 19, 2020 edition of Dark.

  • Kurt Angle Reveals The Worst Bump He Ever Took

    Kurt Angle Reveals The Worst Bump He Ever Took

    WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle has revealed the worst bump he has ever taken in his career.

    The Olympic gold medalist has competed in some grueling matches over the course of his career, so there’s a wide variety of bumps to pick from. However, Angle recently took to Twitter and revealed a 2002 match with Kane on RAW provided the honors.

    During the match, Kane hit a double chokeslam on Angle and referee Charles Robinson, resulting in the referee landing on Angle. Check it out here:

    “My match against the big red machine… Kane. This is the worst bump I ever took in my career. Referee Charles Robinson landed right on top of me. I thought I was going to crap myself. Lol.”

    Angle has certainly been around the block in the professional wrestling industry. First beginning in the business in 1998, Angle signed with WWE and quickly established himself as one of the company’s top stars.

    He lasted with WWE until 2006, winning five World Titles, a Tag Team Title, a King Of The Ring tournament win, and much more. Angle was finally inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2017.

    Kurt Angle Intercontinental and European Championships
    (WWE)

    Angle even spent a decade in IMPACT Wrestling; where he won six World Titles, and X-Division Title win, and was also inducted into the TNA Hall Of Fame in 2013. Now, Angle has retired from in-ring competition, and spends his time hosting his podcast, “The Kurt Angle Show.”

  • John Cena Shares Cryptic Photo of Logan and Jake Paul Amid Rumors He’s Competing at WWE WrestleMania

    John Cena Shares Cryptic Photo of Logan and Jake Paul Amid Rumors He’s Competing at WWE WrestleMania

    John Cena knows how to get people talking with his provocative social media posts. Pro wrestling’s ‘other’ 16-time world champion has proven to be a master at dropping cryptic comments and photos that touch upon current events.

    His tweets are primarily inspirational quotes. His Instagram posts range from playful to downright bewildering. The photos are almost always submitted without a caption, which fuels speculation about what exactly he’s referencing.

    Cena returned to the ring on the final SmackDown of 2022. He and Kevin Owens teamed up to defeat The Bloodline’s Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn. The show delivered massive viewership, proving that Cena can still deliver eyeballs when needed.

    John Cena’s Latest Tease

    The leader of the Cenation is rumored to be competing at WrestleMania in April, with Logan Paul and Austin Theory discussed as his most likely opponents. Both men have campaigned for a match against Cena at WrestleMania.

    Cena’s in-ring career is winding down, so this is a fleeing opportunity for anyone hoping to work with the iconic star before he hangs up the boots once and for all.

    Amid reports that WWE is attempting to get Logan Paul to appear at the Royal Rumble on January 28, Cena shared a photo of Logan and his brother Jake Paul on Instagram. It’s worth noting that he didn’t post just any random photo of them. He chose a photo that included Logan Paul holding the WWE Championship.

    Jake Paul has never competed in a pro wrestling match, but he’s no stranger to WWE. He’s spoken about being a pro wrestling fan while growing up. The Problem Child even appeared at WWE Crown Jewel to help back his brother Logan against The Bloodline. He later teased that they might team up at some point.

    During a recent interview with DAZN, Jake Paul spoke about his love for WWE. While wearing a Hulk Hogan t-shirt, he was asked to name his all-time favorite wrestler.

    “Hulk, probably, yeah,” said Paul. “Him or John Cena, which is like super cliché, but there’s a reason why John Cena was the greatest in the world, brother.”

  • Details on When Bray Wyatt and JoJo Offerman Are Getting Married

    Details on When Bray Wyatt and JoJo Offerman Are Getting Married

    WWE Superstar Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda) is going to walk down the aisle later this year.

    Wyatt is engaged to former WWE ring announcer JoJo Offerman. They couple has been together for several years and have two children together. Their son Knash was born in May 2019 and their daughter Hyrie came the following year in May 2020.

    Offerman spoke to Nikki and Brie Bella this week for The Bellas Podcast and dropped some new details about her upcoming wedding to WWE’s creepiest competitor.

    Bray Wyatt’s Wedding to JoJo Offerman

    Bray Wyatt JoJo Offerman Engaged

    The latest Total Bellas Podcast looks at the upcoming 10-year anniversary of Total Divas, the reality series that helped the Bellas break through to a mainstream audience. The series premiered on the E! Network on July 28, 2013.

    Show originals JoJo, Nattie and Ariane (Cameron) joined Nikki and Brie to discuss the “beautiful journey” that was Total Divas, including their favorite scenes and memories.

    During the episode, JoJo revealed that she and Wyatt are currently planning their wedding ceremony, which is scheduled to take place later this year. She was asked, “How’s married life?” and clarified that they’re still preparing for their big day.

    “We’re not officially married, [we’re] engaged, but we will be married at the end of the year, We picked our date and everything. It’s fun, the kids are crazy.”

    – JoJo

    She said her son looks like her, while her daughter has Windham’s face but her attitude.

    JoJo, 28, also recalled being young and inexperienced when she joined the cast of Total Divas a decade ago. At the time, she was just a few months removed from graduating high school and needed to use a fake ID to attend Natalya’s bachelorette party in Las Vegas during season one.

    Her favorite memories were getting to know the Bellas, forging lifelong friendships with her cast mates and getting to travel the world.

  • WWE CEO Nick Khan: “There’s Only One Boss at WWE and It Ain’t Me”

    WWE CEO Nick Khan: “There’s Only One Boss at WWE and It Ain’t Me”

    WWE CEO Nick Khan has come a long way in his few years with the promotion, but he doesn’t consider himself the top dog.

    Khan joined WWE in the summer of 2020 as the company’s president, replacing Michelle Wilson and George Barrios who had departed earlier that year.

    Following Vince McMahon’s resignation in 2022, Khan was appointed co-CEO with Stephanie McMahon and now serves as the promotion’s sole CEO.

    The Boss

    Khan’s rise to the top of WWE has been unparallel in the company’s history, but even he acknowledges Vince McMahon as the head of the company.

    On the Bill Simmons podcast, Khan spoke about the hierarchy in WWE and knows that he is not on top.

    “My thought has always been that there’s only one boss at WWE and it ain’t me. Vince is obviously the founder, the creator of the company. He’s also the controlling shareholder, which is not a ‘work’ term. It’s a legal term. So it was always my point of view and Stephanie’s point of view that he would come back.

    “There’s only one boss at WWE and it ain’t me.”

    Nick Khan.

    “I think the way he played it, to me, was smart. He went away for five, six months. The audience seems to like when somebody does that. He came back and took control back of his company as the controlling shareholder. It is a public company, it is a publicly-traded company. But with that controlling share, gave him a lot of authority and he used it and I applaud him for doing so.”

    Retirement

    For decades, it was assumed that Vince McMahon would never retire from WWE given his workaholic attitude.

    Once he did retire, WWE’s entire corporate system needed changing, and at the time, many felt that the board of directors, now against McMahon due to the allegations of misconduct, forced him out of the door.

    On the podcast, Khan refuted the idea that McMahon was forced out by anyone other than what he personally believed.

    I didn’t see it as a force. I think Vince saw, the tonnage of things that were coming at him and us. One thing he’s always said, you’ll know as a long-time fan and I’m a long-time fan also, is he’ll do whatever is best for business. Whether it’s bringing the Ultimate Warrior back twenty years ago (referencing Warrior’s 1996 WWF return) or whatever it may be.

    “I think at that moment in time, what was best for business was for him to step away for a while. So he did, and he really did step away. There was no ‘hey why are you doing this,’ or ‘I wouldn’t do it this way.’ It was, in my opinion, total freedom, for Stephanie, myself, and Triple H on the creative side.”

    The Future

    Once McMahon retired, fans thought that they would never see him again, only to be proven wrong by the 77-year-old billionaire for the second time.

    Speaking about what the future may bring, Khan was optimistic that McMahon’s return will make a potential sale of WWE all the easier.

    “It’s only been a week, but he really, I believe, what he said publicly about ‘hey, I’m here to engage in strategic alternatives and the media rights,’ so far the engagement has been that, and other board issues.”

    “WWE is Vince. Vince is WWE.”

    Nick Khan.

    “It’s his company. To me, WWE is Vince. Vince is WWE and we’re going to do the best we can to keep a living company.”

    When asked about McMahon reportedly speaking to multiple departments, Khan said there has been “zero” interactions between McMahon and the company’s creative team.

    Latest on Vince McMahon’s WWE Return: Creative Input, If He’ll Be at TV

    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • Jeff Jarrett Makes the Case for Vince McMahon Taking WWE Private

    Jeff Jarrett Makes the Case for Vince McMahon Taking WWE Private

    WWE Hall of Famer ‘Double J’ Jeff Jarrett has encouraged Vince McMahon to take the promotion private amid ongoing talks of a potential sale.

    McMahon returned to WWE earlier this month to oversee a sale of the promotion, less than six months after retiring in July of last year.

    The 77-year-old billionaire has been unanimously elected Executive Chairman following the resignation of his daughter Stephanie in the role.

    Private

    There’s no shortage of potential buyers for WWE, with names like Comcast, FOX, Disney, Netflix and even Tony & Shahid Khan being reported.

    After it was reported that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund had bought the company (which was later debunked) it was noted that the PIF intends to take WWE private.

    On his ‘My World’ podcast, Jarrett, the founder of TNA/Impact Wrestling, suggested that WWE going private would be the right call.

    “The professional wrestling industry is run much better in a private setting because there’s a vision, there’s a final decision maker, the buck stops with one person, it’s just how I think the success of our industry can thrive. “I think the wrestling industry can be much more successful if WWE is private.”

    Jeff Jarett.

    WWE became a publicly traded company in the Summer of 1999 and stock in the company rose dramatically this month following McMahon’s return.

    Saudi Arabia PIF

    With over $600 billion to its name, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund has more than enough to purchase WWE.

    Not only is the PIF expected to take WWE private if a sale goes through, but are expected by many to keep McMahon as the company’s key decision-maker.

    The possibility of WWE being purchased by the Saudi PIF has been received poorly, with talent reportedly threatening to walk if a deal is reached.

    Eric Bischoff’s Predictions for a WWE Sale, AEW TV Deal, CM Punk

    h/t – Wrestling Inc

  • WWE is Hoping on Logan Paul Appearance At the Royal Rumble

    WWE is Hoping on Logan Paul Appearance At the Royal Rumble

    Logan Paul’s return to WWE programming could be a matter of days away if WWE gets its way.

    The Youtuber-turned-boxer made an impression last year, having victories at both WrestleMania 38 and Summerslam, but lost at WWE Crown Jewel.

    During the latter match with Roman Reigns, Paul suffered a torn meniscus injury which has kept him on the shelf since.

    The Rumble

    Fightful is hoping that Paul is fully healed and ready to appear at next week’s Royal Rumble, Fightful Select reports.

    The report says that WWE hopes for an appearance by the Maverick, but does not confirm if WWE wants him in the Men’s Rumble match.

    Fightful did specify that WWE is hoping he will train for an “upcoming match” and that they have “at least inquired” about it.

    Recent reports suggested that Paul will face John Cena at WrestleMania 39, but an updated report has stated it will be Cena against U.S. Champion Austin Theory in April.

    CryptoZoo

    Paul hasn’t competed for WWE in months, but his name has been in the media for all the wrong reasons.

    CryptoZoo, a game that Paul has heavily promoted on his ImPaulsive podcast, has been called little more than a scam by several users.

    The game (which is currently offline) allows users to make money in the form of NFTs designed as various cartoon animals.

    Paul has apologized to those who have lost money in the game, and Fightful’s report says that this controversy hasn’t been an issue for WWE’s booking of the YouTuber.

    Top 5 Breakout Wrestlers of 2022
  • Another WWE Vice President Parts Ways with WWE

    Another WWE Vice President Parts Ways with WWE

    Another long-time WWE higher-up has parted ways with the company in the latest shakeup to the company’s corporate landscape.

    Earlier this month, Stephanie McMahon resigned as WWE’s Chairwoman and Co-CEO, with Vince McMahon replacing her as Executive Chairman.

    Vince McMahon’s return was initially described as solely to oversee the sale of WWE though many have cast doubt on this claim given the billionaire’s new backstage role.

    Stefanie Fiondella

    Stephanie McMahon’s resignation has not been a one-off event, as it was reported this week that WWE’s Vice President of Communications Adam Hopkins has left the company.

    In an update, PW Insider reports that Stefanie Fiondella, who also served in the capacity of Vice President of Communications, has resigned as well.

    Fiondella joined WWE in 2004 as Vice President of Marketing & Communications Operations and after leaving in 2019, returned in 2021 for her final role.

    Fiondella was also the co-chair for the WWE Women’s Affinity Group as well.

    This latest resignation comes after WWE held a meeting earlier this month, in which employees were assured that little to nothing would change in corporate following Vince McMahon’s return.

    Resignations

    Fiondella and Hopkins are just the latest prominent names to exit WWE as more and more people have parted ways since McMahon’s return.

    McMahon’s return to the board alongside former WWE co-Presidents Michelle Wilson and Geroge Barrios resulted in the removal of JoEllen Lyons Dillon, Jeffrey R. Speed, and Alan M. Wexler.

    In response, Man Jit Singh and Ignace Lahoud chose to leave the board, citing that they felt McMahon’s return was wrong.

    Singh’s departure is especially notable given that it was he who oversaw the investigation into McMahon last year.

    Vince McMahon Faces New Lawsuit from WWE Stockholders
  • “Sh*t Got Real” – Braun Strowman Recalls Brock Lesnar Shooting on him in the Royal Rumble

    “Sh*t Got Real” – Braun Strowman Recalls Brock Lesnar Shooting on him in the Royal Rumble

    Braun Strowman is touted as The Monster Among Men, but he met his match when stepping into the ring with Brock Lesnar. He even received the end of a stiff punch from Lesnar.

    It happened when he worked a triple threat match at the 2018 Royal Rumble with Lesnar and Kane. Strowman caught The Beast’s head with a knee. This led to an angry Lesnar reacting with a legitimate right-hand punch to the jaw of Strowman. 

    Braun Strowman’s Reflection

    Strowman described the moment in an interview with BT Sport:

    “Sh*t got real! I mean at the end of the day it’s two scary guys, two dominant males not wanting to give an inch to either one and we took it from each other. Things happen, we’re not playing, we’re not ballet, we’re not badminton. We’re physical, he’s 300lbs, of just unadulterated animalistic beast and I’m a 385lbs monster. Things happen. At the end of the day, we made one hell of a segment, that’s what really happened.”

    “I pat myself on the back, I think I’m the only person in history to take an overhand right from Brock Lesnar and not get knocked out. Anytime you get in the ring with The Beast and mix it up, the bigger the challenge the better. If you’re not wrestling the best, then who’d you beat?”

    Lesnar won the match to keep the Universal Title until losing to Roman Reigns at Summerslam later that year.

    H/T to TJRWrestling for the transcription

  • Tony Khan Comments on Potential WWE Sale

    Tony Khan Comments on Potential WWE Sale

    Tony Khan has weighed in on the WWE sale rumors following Vince McMahon’s return to the company as the Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. McMahon has returned to the company to explore the possibility of a sale as well as lead the company in its negotiations for the next TV rights deal. 

    Last week, Barron’s reported that Tony and Shad Khan were “in the pool of” potential WWE buyers and the Khan family will likely look for a financial partner if they are to acquire WWE. CNBC later reported that the Khans were interested in a merger between AEW and WWE.

    While appearing on The Maggie and Perloff Show, the AEW President was asked about his interest in potentially purchasing WWE.

    Khan’s Thoughts

    “I am interested in the news that there is potentially a sales process and certainly, I think we’ve shown, when there are acquisitions and transactions, we’re capable of making the big purchases, whether my dad steps up with the (Jacksonville) Jaguars or Fulham FC in the Premier League and he’s done such a great job building up the club and putting resources into it and we’re playing football at a high level. With AEW, we’ve shown that we can build a company.”

    Khan noted that when he bought ROH, he enjoys running it and has done all-time highs in terms of every business metric since they took over. 

    “AEW is my main focus, but certainly, when that news is out there, it’s very interesting. Stay tuned to AEW Dynamite and AEW Rampage, you never know when I’m going to address something. On the other hand, it’s very preliminary to talk about that process. If there is a process there, which it sounds like there may be, I’m interested in being part of it.”

    Regarding whether he has a relationship with Vince McMahon, Tony noted he doesn’t have a relationship with him, but has talked with Stephanie in the past and had good conversations. 

    H/T to Fightful for the transcript

  • Two More Legends Set to Appear at WWE’s ‘Raw is XXX’ Anniversary Special

    Two More Legends Set to Appear at WWE’s ‘Raw is XXX’ Anniversary Special

    It seems more WWE legends will appear on the Raw 30th-anniversary show.

    WWE has reached a major milestone with their longest-running TV show, Monday Night Raw reaching 30 years of programming. Although the first episode of Monday Night Raw happened on Jan. 11, 1993, WWE decided to celebrate their milestone on Jan. 23.

    The company has advertised several WWE legends, including The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels, to appear at the event. However, it seems WWE has at least two unannounced legends to pop in for the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw.

    Spoiler Warning

    The Daily Items’ Francis Scarcella reports former WWE talent Rikishi and Samu will appear at the 30th celebration of Monday Night Raw. In the article, Samu confirmed that he would be at the event on Jan. 23.

    “…I want to thank the WWE for everything they have done for myself and my family,” Anoa’i said. “I look forward to next week when I can see a lot of familiar faces and be reunited with a lot of my family members,” said Samu(h/t Francis Scarcella).

    Rikishi hasn’t shared if he will be at the event yet. The WWE has yet to advertise either Samu or Rikishi, so it’s possible their potential appearance is to be a surprise. The Bloodline faction led by Roman Reigns is to have a segment on Monday Night Raw listed as the “Acknowledgement Ceremony.” Samu and Rikishi could make an appearance during that segment.

    What to Look Out For During the 30th Anniversary of Monday Night Raw?

    Raw is XXX

    The 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw could be an exciting event to watch. While the WWE has advertised several legends, there could be more surprise appearances. WWE has also promoted two championship matches and a steel cage match between Becky Lynch and Bayley.

    WWE fans may also be curious if WWE Chairman Vince McMahon will come out on the show. He hasn’t appeared on WWE TV since he unceremoniously retired from WWE following allegations of misconduct with female employees on July 22.

    He returned to the company on Jan. 6 to take his place on the Board of Directors. His supporters, like Ric Flair, want to see McMahon walk down the ring during the show. However, he has claimed that he’s only interested in helping WWE negotiate a TV rights deal or potentially selling WWE to buyers.

  • WWE’s VP of Communication Departs After 25 Years

    WWE’s VP of Communication Departs After 25 Years

    WWE has lost another employee this month as the Vice President of Communication departs the company

    The company is off to a rough start to the year. It began with the unexpected return of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon after retiring last year. His comeback led to uncertainty for the company’s future, as WWE might be sold. As a result of McMahon’s return led to the departure of WWE Board of Director members JoEllen Lyons Dillon, Jeffrey R. Speed, Alan M. Wexler, Man Jit Singh, and Ignace Lahoud.

    One of the significant departures from the company was former Co-CEO and daughter to the WWE Chairman, Stephanie McMahon. She resigned from her role with the company after taking over with current CEO Nick Khan after Vince’s retirement. While WWE fans may have hoped that would be the end of employees leaving the company, it’s now reported not to be the case.

    Fightful Select reports that WWE’s VP of Communications, Adam Hopkins, has left the company. Hopkins has worked for WWE for over 25 years, from Fan Service Coordinator to his last role as VP of Communication. It’s unclear if his departure is a resignation or if he was fired.

    The Current Status of WWE

    The WWE Chairman claims his main objective for returning is to assist WWE in talks of TV rights negotiations or to sell the company. He also claims he doesn’t plan to disrupt the company’s plans on TV. However, WWE fans and talent are still concerned if he will stand by his words.

    On Jan. 13, it was reported that Triple H met with talent before Smackdown to reassure them that he is still the Chief Content Officer and that McMahon’s return would not affect WWE creative or talent relations. He also acknowledged that McMahon’s stance could change.

    It’s unclear what the future holds for WWE. However, the departure of employees is not a good sign to help concerned fans.

  • Michelle McCool Clarifies Status For 2023 Royal Rumble

    Michelle McCool Clarifies Status For 2023 Royal Rumble

    Former WWE Women’s Champion Michelle McCool has clarified her status for the upcoming 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble match.

    The event will go down from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on January 28. As per tradition, the winner of the women’s Royal Rumble match will go on to headline WrestleMania against the World Champion of their choice.

    Every year the WWE brings back familiar faces to participate in the match, providing some exciting surprise returns for fans. One name that has already returned for the Rumble back in 2018 is none other than Michelle McCool.

    The former WWE Women’s Champion took to Twitter and responded to a fan question about whether or not we can expect her in this year’s Royal Rumble match. However, McCool admits that WWE hasn’t contacted her about getting involved in the match.

    McCool is a two-time WWE Women’s Champion and two-time Divas Champion. She retired from professional wrestling full-time in 2011, but has made sporadic appearances for WWE over the years.

    Michelle McCool
    (via WWE)

    These include matches at WWE’s Evolution pay-per-view (PPV), as well as her appearance in the 2018 Women’s Royal Rumble, where she had the highest number of eliminations on the night at five.

    It remains to be seen if WWE will ultimately decide to reach out to McCool to get her in the match with just a little over a week to go.