SEScoops

Category: WWE

  • Charlotte Flair Eying Champ vs. Champ Match with Bianca Belair

    Charlotte Flair Eying Champ vs. Champ Match with Bianca Belair

    Charlotte Flair isn’t resting on her laurels after reclaiming the SmackDown Women’s Champion in dramatic fashion. She’s looking to take on all challengers, including the reigning queenpin of Monday Night Raw, Bianca Belair.

    Flair made a triumphant return to WWE on the final SmackDown of 2022. She showed up with a purpose and made an immediate impact. When all was said and done, she stunned Ronda Rousey in an impromptu match to begin her 13th reign as a WWE Women’s world champion.

    Rousey is probably still wondering how her role as SmackDown Women’s champion could be snatched from her so abruptly, but Charlotte isn’t worried about that. She’s already looking ahead and focused on solidifying her legacy as the premiere Superstar of this generation.

    Bring It

    Charlotte Flair appeared on WWE’s The Bump this week and had very positive things to say about Bianca Belair. She knows what it’s like to be the top dog of a WWE brand and all the responsibilities that come with it.

    “First, I want to give kudos to Bianca,” said Charlotte. “I know what it’s like to be in that role she’s in, from the matches to live events to being a spokesperson, the media, the obligations, the signings. I know that schedule and how grueling it is, and she’s doing it.”

    Belair has been destined for greatness ever since her days in NXT. She’s living up to the hype, an impressive feat to say the least. Flair says she’s proud of Belair, and would have no problem getting in the ring with her to see which of them is the true Queen of WWE.

    “She’s doing it well, and she’s striving, and she’s turning into what everyone said she was gonna be, the face of the women’s division, and I couldn’t be more proud of her.”

    “From a competitive side, the best for last, baby. Bring it.”

    – Charlotte Flair on facing Bianca Belair

    Charlotte Flair vs. Bianca Belair History

    Flair and Belair have wrestled each other several times over the past several years. Flair defeated Belair on the February 26, 2020 edition of NXT.

    On the main roster, they’ve wrestled many times in multi-person matches, but have only wrestled twice in singles action. Belair won both of those matches by disqualification (WWE Raw, October 4, 2021 and WWE Raw, October 18, 2021).

    (Stats courtesy of Cagematch.net)

    Conclusion

    Will this match actually happen? WWE has unified the top championships in the men’s singles division, as well as the tag team divisions. Roman Reigns is the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, while The Usos hold the Raw and SmackDown tag belts. Based on what we’ve heard about WWE wanting to split up Reigns’ belts, it seems unlikely they’d continue moving in the ‘unification’ direction with the women’s titles.

    Watch Charlotte Flair’s appearance on WWE’s The Bump:

  • Vince McMahon Returns to WWE’s Board of Directors

    Vince McMahon Returns to WWE’s Board of Directors

    Vince McMahon has officially returned to WWE with immediate effect following his retirement from the promotion in July of last year.

    McMahon stepped down from his roles with WWE following allegations of misconduct with female employees, leading to millions of dollars paid out in NDAs.

    In his place, Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan were appointed co-CEOs with Stephanie serving as Chairwoman of the Board.

    The Comeback

    In late 2022, it was reported that McMahon regretted retiring from WWE, and believed the allegations against him would have blown over had he stayed.

    McMahon had been telling those close to him that he was plotting a return to WWE, though it is unclear if he spoke to Stephanie.

    Yesterday, McMahon issued a press release confirming his desire to return to WWE, believing it was in the company’s and the investors’ best interest.

    McMahon reportedly threatened to vote down any attempts at a sale of the company, or any offers for new TV distribution rights.

    Vince McMahon’s 37% share of WWE stock gives him an 80% majority voter share over the board’s actions.

    Immediate Effect

    In a SEC filing confirmed today, it was announced that McMahon is back on WWE’s Board of Directors with immediate effect.

    McMahon isn’t coming alone, as former WWE co-Presidents Michelle Wilson and George Barrios are also returning.

    Barrios and Wilson were with WWE until their dismissal in January 2020 as disagreements with McMahon led to a slump in the market price.

    It was the dismissal of the pair that led WWE to hire Nick Khan as President.

    McMahon, Wilson, and Barrios are replacing now-former board members JoEllen Lyons Dillon, Jeffrey R. Speed, and Alan M. Wexler.

    The full SEC filing can be found here.

    What now?

    McMahon’s departure last year is something fans thought they would never see, and the same can be said for his return.

    WWE talent have been virtually unanimous in opposition to McMahon’s return and were said to have been “floored” by his statement.

    Those in Creative were not told about his statement ahead of time, and one “top WWE talent” has questioned if he will return as Head of Creative, a role occupied by Triple H.

    The “unanimous decision” among those in production who spoke to Fightful said that this is bad news, or news about their pay grade.

    For the time being, it is believed that Stephanie is still the Chairperson of the Board and that she and Khan are co-CEOs.

    It is possible for Vince McMahon to force a vote on the positions, a vote he would have the ultimate majority over the result.

    Vince McMahon Reportedly Wants to Return to WWE In Order to Sell It
  • AAA Believed Dragon Lee Going to WWE was a Joke (Report)

    AAA Believed Dragon Lee Going to WWE was a Joke (Report)

    Dragon Lee shocked the wrestling world by announcing he was going to join WWE, but those working at AAA didn’t believe his claim.

    Lee, 27, captured the AAA World Tag Team Championships with Dralistico last month at Noche de Campeones, dethroning FTR and ending their 438-day reign.

    After the match, Dragon Lee announced his impending arrival at WWE and the titles have since been vacated.

    Just a Joke

    Dragon Lee’s announcement came as a shock to fans, but those in AAA didn’t believe it, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports.

    Given that the date of Noche de Campeones, December 28, fell on their version of April Fool’s day, many saw this announcement as just a prank.

    The Observer adds that AAA management “no sold” his announcement of signing with WWE even after he and Dralistico won the AAA World Tag Team titles.

    After Dragon Lee’s announcement, Triple H took to Twitter to call him an “unbelievable athlete” who is just getting started.

    What’s Next?

    It has been reported that Dragon Lee’s deal will see him earn much more than your standard NXT signing, but not as much as a main-roster performer.

    WWE also reportedly has plans for Lee to be on the main roster sooner rather than later, and believe he will be there by WrestleMania 40.

    In an interview with ESPN, Dragon Lee said signing with WWE has always been ‘the dream’ and is confident he can be the new Rey Mysterio if given the opportunity.

    WWE has plans for more high-profile signings in 2023, with another “standout” talent expected soon.

    Report: WWE Were Interested in Dragon Lee After Seeing Him in AEW
  • A Drunk Shawn Michaels Cussed Out “Wannabe” Jeff Hardy in 2007

    A Drunk Shawn Michaels Cussed Out “Wannabe” Jeff Hardy in 2007

    Shawn Michaels may have mellowed out considerably from the man he was during the 1990s, but the WWE roster got a glimpse of the old HBK in 2007.

    During the 1990s, Michaels was notoriously difficult to work with and would use his position as part of the Kliq to play politics backstage.

    After a back injury ended Michaels’ career in 1998, the former World Champion would find his faith and return to the ring in 2002.

    A Devil in a Robe

    By 2007, Michaels was far from the wild child that terrorized the locker room during the New Generation Era, but there was still a spark of the old HBK.

    Speaking on his Extreme Life podcast, Matt Hardy recalled the WWE roster going out to celebrate following Michaels’ near-one-hour match with John Cena on Raw in 2007.

    “Shawn at this point, was not drinking, very religious. And Ric [Flair] was down there just annoying the sh*t out of him. He’s like ‘Come on Shawn! Look at the champ John! He’s the leader now. He’s having some drinks. Shawn, you can have a drink! It doesn’t make you a bad person.’

    Matt Hardy.

    The old Shawn Michaels

    After plenty of nagging by Ric Flair, Michaels eventually caved, which brought out a side that the roster didn’t expect to see.

    “Ric finally got Shawn to cave and have some drinks. So he’s sitting there having his drinks, and you’re seeing the ‘old’ Shawn Michaels starting to come out. And Jeff and I, we were just tickled.

    “Look at you Jeff Hardy. A Shawn Michaels wannabe!”

    A drunk Shawn Michaels in 2007.

    “You see Shawn and now that he’s had a few, he says ‘yeah look at you Jeff Hardy. A Shawn Michaels wannabe! People know that I’m the real deal. You think you’re hot sh*t right, just because people love you. Well people will always believe in me! Are they going to always believe in you?”

    Matt added that Jeff was wowed by the drunk Michaels, but that he and Matt found the situation to be hilarious.

    Confrontation

    Well and truly inebriated at this point, Michaels turned his attention to Umaga, who was having none of his antics.

    “Shawn’s like ‘hey, look at the big man over here. I’m incredible! If I hit you with that superkick, everybody knows I can beat you.’

    “And I will never forget Umaga just jumped up and [aggressively] said ‘why don’t you give me a shot right now then? Go on!’ and Shawn backed off. ‘Whoa brother, I’m just working brother. Work with me brother.’”

    “I will never forget Umaga just jumped up and [aggressively] said ‘why don’t you give me a shot right now.”

    Umaga confronting a drunk Shawn Michaels about his superkick.

    Hardy said at this point, he and Jeff were crying with laughter, calling it one of his favorite stories of life on the road.

    Matt Hardy Reveals Which Company He Wants to Retire with

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

  • WWE Roster “Floored” by Vince McMahon’s Attempted Return

    WWE Roster “Floored” by Vince McMahon’s Attempted Return

    Vince McMahon is attempting the mother of all comebacks, and this week’s news is something those in WWE did not see coming.

    McMahon retired from WWE in July 2022 following allegations of misconduct with female employees and reports of paying out millions in Non-Disclosure Agreements.

    With McMahon gone, Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan have operated as co-CEOs with Stephanie serving as Chairwoman of the Board.

    This week, McMahon confirmed reports of his intention to return with a statement.

    Floored

    WWE’s roster has been “floored” by McMahon’s plan to come back, a source told Fightful Select this week.

    Nobody in any department, whether it talent, production, creative, or general staff, was given any information prior to the statement McMahon shared this week.

    One Superstar told Fightful they had no inclination he’d return but “considering some people from his regime were kept this long, they must have known it would happen.”

    That same source also questioned whether WWE will host a talk with the roster at tonight’s taping of WWE SmackDown on FOX.

    A different talent said, “Finding out online is scary, and it’s Vince, so I don’t believe a word he says.”

    One concerned higher-up added that former talent who believe Vince liked them are kidding themselves.

    “He didn’t like you, he didn’t like any of them. He fired or they wouldn’t have been fired during a pandemic.”

    Creative

    Prior to his retirement, McMahon served as WWE’s Head of Creative, a role now occupied by Triple H.

    One anonymous Superstar, described as a “top WWE talent” questioned whether McMahon could return to creative if his plan is a success.

    The idea that McMahon could return to creative has been a common concern among talent.

    The two sources within the creative department who spoke to Fightful said they had not learned of any adjustments to their duties.

    “I would be blown away if he returned to creative,” a recently signed talent said.

    Production

    Like the roster and those at creative, the production team had no heads-up about McMahon’s statement prior to its publication.

    The “unanimous decision” among those in production who spoke to Fightful said that this is bad news, or news about their pay grade.

    One source did acknowledge WWE’s stock price seeing a dramatic increase following McMahon’s stated intention to return.

    Vince McMahon Reportedly Wants to Return to WWE In Order to Sell It
  • Grayson Waller: I Can Win the Rumble – I Can Beat Roman Reigns

    Grayson Waller: I Can Win the Rumble – I Can Beat Roman Reigns

    Will NXT’s Grayson Waller win this month’s Men’s Royal Rumble match? It’s certainly a possibility according to the man himself.

    Waller made his WWE TV debut in June 2021 and was one of the top names in WWE NXT 2.0.

    His prominent position on the card continued following the end of NXT 2.0 and the revamp back to WWE NXT.

    Royal Rumble

    Waller has had a handful of appearances outside of NXT on WWE Main Event, but he is optimistic about his chances on one of WWE’s biggest shows of the year.

    Speaking to Steve Fall of Ten Count, the Australian Superstar was asked about possibly entering the Royal Rumble.

    “You’re trying to get me in trouble with Roman right now. I can feel it. I know what you’re doing, but that’s okay. Because if I get the opportunity in the Royal Rumble, I have confidence. I know I could go on and win that thing.”

    Grayson Waller.

    Waller mentioned that he has experience defeating Bloodline members, as he holds a victory over Solo Sikoa, which came “pretty easily” according to the NXT star.

    Roman Reigns

    Roman Reigns has been virtually untouchable since his return in August 2020, and is closing in on 900 days as WWE Universal Champion.

    Calling the Tribal Chief the toughest challenge in wrestling today, Waller was optimistic about facing the Champion, if he has plenty of time to prepare.

    “if I get in there with Roman, and I have time, and I can come up with a strategy, and I can get some backup [I can beat him.] …Who knows? Imagine me doing a shoey with three championships in my hand? That’s pretty impressive.”

    Grayson Waller.

    The third title Waller is referring to is the NXT Championship, which Waller will challenge for as a result of winning the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge at NXT Deadline.

    Grayson Waller Calls Mandy Rose a Pillar of WWE NXT

    h/t – 411 Mania

  • Read Vince McMahon’s Statement Addressing Dramatic WWE Return

    Read Vince McMahon’s Statement Addressing Dramatic WWE Return

    Vince McMahon released the following press release on Thursday addressing his plan to stage a WWE comeback and assume the role of Executive Chairman of the Board.

    More: Vince McMahon Wants to Return to WWE In Order to Sell It (WSJ)

    Vince McMahon Takes Actions in Support of Plan for WWE to Undertake a Review of Strategic Alternatives and Capture Unique Opportunity to Maximize Long-term Value for All Shareholders

    Submits written consent to WWE Board electing himself and Company veterans George Barrios and Michelle Wilsonas Directors

    Actions are necessary to ensure McMahon’s full participation in upcoming media rights negotiations and review of strategic alternatives

    GREENWICH, Conn., Jan. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Vince McMahon, the founder and controlling shareholder of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. (“WWE” or the “Company”) (NYSE: WWE), announced today that he has taken necessary actions to position the Company to capitalize on a unique opportunity to maximize long-term value for all WWE shareholders. The actions, communicated to WWE’s Board of Directors today via written consent, include the election to the Board of Mr. McMahon, as well as Michelle Wilson and George Barrios – former WWE Co-Presidents and Board members, and currently the Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Isos Capital Management – and the requisite removal from the Board of three directors. Mr. McMahon expects to assume the role of Executive Chairman of the Board.

    Mr. McMahon’s new role will enable unified decision making through the Company’s upcoming media rights negotiations and a parallel full review of the Company’s strategic alternatives, which Mr. McMahon believes is the right course of action and in the best interests of WWE and WWE shareholders amidst the current dynamics in the media and entertainment industry. As Mr. McMahon has communicated to the Board, he believes there is a narrow window of opportunity to create significant value for all shareholders and that to do so, the strategic alternatives review must occur in tandem with the media rights negotiations. He also expressed to the Board that he believes these two initiatives require Mr. McMahon’s direct participation, leadership, and support as controlling shareholder.

    “WWE is entering a critical juncture in its history with the upcoming media rights negotiations coinciding with increased industry-wide demand for quality content and live events and with more companies seeking to own the intellectual property on their platforms,” said Mr. McMahon. “The only way for WWE to fully capitalize on this opportunity is for me to return as Executive Chairman and support the management team in the negotiations for our media rights and to combine that with a review of strategic alternatives. My return will allow WWE, as well as any transaction counterparties, to engage in these processes knowing they will have the support of the controlling shareholder.”

    Prior to delivering written consent, Mr. McMahon sent two separate letters to the Board in late December in which he expressed the urgency of his return to the Company as Executive Chairman and his desire to work collaboratively with the Board and management team. Following conversations with representatives of the Company both before and after Mr. McMahon’s most recent letter on December 31, Mr. McMahon determined, consistent with his rights as controlling shareholder, that the steps announced today are necessary to maximize value for all WWE shareholders.

    Mr. McMahon said, “Ms. Wilson and Mr. Barrios are highly qualified directors whose professional experience positions them well to help the Company achieve the best possible outcomes in both initiatives. As former WWE Co-Presidents and Board members, they are intimately familiar with industry dynamics and the organization’s operations and have helped guide the Company through past successful media rights negotiations. I look forward to working closely again with Michelle and George – as well as the Company’s remaining directors and management team, who have my full support and confidence. WWE has an exceptional management team in place, and I do not intend for my return to have any impact on their roles, duties, or responsibilities.”

    In conjunction with the changes to WWE’s Board, Mr. McMahon’s written consent also includes certain amendments to the Company’s bylaws to ensure that WWE’s corporate governance continues to properly enable and support shareholder rights. These changes will be detailed in a Schedule 13D amendment to be filed by Mr. McMahon and a Form 8-K to be filed by the Company in the coming days.

    No assurances can be given regarding the outcome or timing of the review process. Mr. McMahon does not intend to comment further until the process has concluded or Mr. McMahon has otherwise determined that further disclosure is appropriate or required.

    Michelle Wilson Biography

    Ms. Wilson is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Isos Capital Management. She is a leading sports and entertainment c-suite executive and, prior to founding Isos with Mr. Barrios, most recently served as Co-President and Board Member of WWE until January 2020. In 2018, Forbes named Ms. Wilson one of the 10 Most Powerful Women in Sports. She also was featured on the Adweek 50 list, which highlights the leading executives in Media, Marketing and Technology, and named one of Sports Illustrated’s 10 Most Influential Women in Sports. She joined WWE in 2009 and prior to her appointment as Co-President, served as Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer.

    Previously, Michelle served as the Chief Marketing Officer of the United States Tennis Association, oversaw all marketing efforts for the launch of the XFL, a partnership between WWE and NBC, and held consumer products and brand management positions at the NBA and Nabisco, respectively. She received her MBA from Harvard Business School and currently serves on the Boards of Bowlero Corporation and Turtle Beach Corporation.

    George Barrios Biography

    Mr. Barrios serves as Isos Capital Management’s Co-Founder and Co-CEO. He is an award-winning c-suite executive and most recently served as Co-President and Board Member of WWE until January 2020. In 2017, Institutional Investor ranked George among the Top 3 CFOs in the Media Industry as part of its All-America Executive team rankings. He joined WWE in 2008 as its Chief Strategy and Financial Officer.

    Previously, he held leadership roles in finance, strategy and operations at the New York Times, Praxair, Time Warner and HBO. He received his MBA from the University of Connecticut School of Business and currently serves as the National Board Chair of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

    Kirkland & Ellis is serving as legal counsel to Mr. McMahon.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward looking statements include statements regarding Mr. McMahon’s return to the Board as Executive Chairman, the impact of Mr. McMahon, Ms. Wilson and Mr. Barrios as members of the Board, the timing and success of the Company’s media rights negotiations and the Company’s review of strategic alternatives. In addition, the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “continue,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “believe,” “expect,” “outlook,” “target,” “goal,” “guidance” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such words. These statements relate to future possible events, as well as plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and are not historical facts and accordingly involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties relating to, without limitation, the matters referred to in this release, the complexity of the Company’s rights agreements across distribution mechanisms and geographical areas and the Company’s review of strategic alternatives. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and are subject to change without any obligation to update or revise them. Undue reliance should not be placed on these statements.

    Contact
    Steven Goldberg / Beau Falgout
    August
    (323) 892-5562
    Inquiries@AugustCo.com

    SOURCE Vince McMahon

  • Vince McMahon Reportedly Wants to Return to WWE In Order to Sell It

    Vince McMahon Reportedly Wants to Return to WWE In Order to Sell It

    In the newest twist to the Vince McMahon story, the Wall Street Journal is reporting that McMahon wants to return to WWE in order to sell it.

    That comes from a January 5 WSJ article from Lauren Thomas, who wrote that McMahon, the majority owner of WWE wants to return to the company after his retirement last year amid multiple sexual harassment claims. That’s according to “people familiar with the situation,” Thomas stated.

    “Mr. McMahon, who has majority voting power through his ownership of WWE’s Class-B stock, has told the company that he is electing himself and two former co-presidents and directors, Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, to the board, the people said,” wrote Thomas. “The move to reinstate Mr. McMahon, which the board previously rebuffed, and the others will require three current directors to vacate their positions.”

    According to the article, McMahon penned a letter to the WWE’s Board of Directors in late December, stating that he wanted to return to the company to “spearhead a strategic-review process,” which would result in the sale of the company.

    “Mr. McMahon believes the media landscape is evolving quickly and more companies are looking to own the intellectual property they use on their streaming platforms, making WWE an attractive takeover target, the people said,” Thomas wrote. “WWE, which generates most of its revenue from selling content rights, posted its first year of over $1 billion in revenue in 2021. The company currently has a market value of just over $5 billion.”

    McMahon believes that many companies, such as NBC Universal, Warner Brothers Discovery, and more are wanting to own their own intellectual property to use on their streaming services. This makes WWE a prized pig.

    “The board responded last month in a letter to Mr. McMahon that it was prepared to initiate a review process and would welcome working with him on it,” the article stated. “However, it said it unanimously agreed that Mr. McMahon’s return to the business wouldn’t be in shareholders’ best interest, according to people familiar with the letters.”

    The board also asked that McMahon confirm his commitment to repay the expenses that were incurred as a result of the investigation into his sexual misconduct allegations. They also asked that McMahon not return to the company while the federal government is still investigating the allegations.

    Wrestlers' Court

    Vince McMahon Wants to Return to WWE or He Won’t Approve of a Sale

    “Mr. McMahon said in response that he remains willing to continue working to complete any reimbursement for reasonable expenses related to the investigation, to the extent they aren’t covered by insurance, but he declined to agree to not return to the company,” the WSJ article wrote.

    The article noted that McMahon said that unless he is directly involved as the executive chairman from the outset of the strategic review, he wouldn’t support or approve any media-rights sale.

    Recently, reports came out that McMahon was planning a comeback to the company. He stated that he was given bad advice from people close to him, who told him to step down.

    It was reported that many people in WWE were against McMahon returning to the company.

    Currently, Vince’s daughter Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan are serving as Co-CEO’s of WWE, while Triple H (Paul Levesque) is serving as the head of creative.

  • Top Stars Booked for WWE Raw’s 30th Anniversary

    Top Stars Booked for WWE Raw’s 30th Anniversary

    WWE is looking to load up the Raw 30th Anniversary show later this month.

    Roman Reigns and Ronda Rousey are being advertised for the show on WWE’s website, which will emanate from Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center on January 23, 2023. The company will celebrate three decades since Raw first appeared on television on January 11, 1993.

    The Other Names

    According to the company’s website, Seth Rollins, Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, and Bobby Lashley are also advertised. WWE is expected to bring in Legends, but it’s unknown who will be used. WWE will likely load up the card with big matches as well. 

    Ric Flair recently said on his To Be A Man podcast that he has also been invited to the show, while Kurt Angle stated in a recent interview that he expects to be there. 

    WWE started working on plans in October for this special edition of the show, as the first episode took place on January 11, 1993.

    WWE celebrated Raw’s 25th anniversary in 2018 with a special episode that took place across two locations – in New York City at both the Barclays Center and the Manhattan Center – as the Manhattan Center was the original home of Raw in 1993.

  • John Laurinaitis’ First Post-WWE Appearance Canceled Due to Negative Feedback

    John Laurinaitis’ First Post-WWE Appearance Canceled Due to Negative Feedback

    A day after John Laurinaitis’ first public appearance since being fired from WWE was announced, it was nixed. 

    On Wednesday, Bobby Fulton announced that Laurinaitis would take part in a Big Time Collectibles event in Los Angeles over WrestleMania Weekend. 

    Fulton announced Laurinaitis for the event by writing, “John ‘Johnny Ace’ Laurinaitis will be making his first-ever appearance WrestleMania Weekend in LA, courtesy of Big Time Collectibles! More info coming soon!”

    However, on Thursday, Fulton revealed that Big Time Collectibles will no longer be working with Laurinaitis because of the negative feedback they have received since the announcement. 

    Nixed

    Fulton wrote: “Yesterday we announced John Laurinaitis would be doing an appearance with Big Time Collectibles. Upon announcement we received only negative feedback. After much consideration we have decided to not work with him. We apologize to those that were offended by us working with him.”

    Last August, Laurinaitis was released from WWE following allegations of misconduct in a Wall Street Journal article. His departure ended a 21-year run with the company as he had been with the company since 2001. 

  • Dominik Mysterio Announces Engagement

    Dominik Mysterio Announces Engagement

    Dominik Mysterio has announced his engagement.  In a recent post on Instagram, the 25-year-old posted a picture of his longtime girlfriend, Marie Juliette wearing an engagement ring on January 2, 2023. 

    This past November, Dominik posted about his and Juliette’s 11-year anniversary.

    SEScoops extends our congratulations to the happy couple. 

    Dominik’s Progression on WWE TV

    Dominik is involved in an undefined relationship with Rhea Ripley in the storyline, as the two stars are part of The Judgment Day faction with Damian Priest and Finn Balor. On television and social media, Dominik refers to Ripley as “Mami.” 

    He has attempted to bring her to his father’s home on both Thanksgiving and Christmas, with the latter leading to the police being called and Dominik being sent to prison for a short time. 

    In a segment on Monday Night Raw this week, he revealed on Raw that the experience really impacted him.  

    Ripley commented on Dominik’s engagement post but didn’t keep kayfabe as she wrote”Congratulations” to the young couple. 

    In September, Dominik turned on his father and Edge at Clash at the Castle. He would officially join the Judgement Day group two nights later on Monday Night Raw. Before this, The faction had been recruiting him in the weeks leading up to the event. 

  • Bret Hart Turned Down Kurt Angle Match for Fear He’d Embarrass Himself

    Bret Hart Turned Down Kurt Angle Match for Fear He’d Embarrass Himself

    Who would have won in a dream match between two of the greatest technical wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots?

    For years, Bret Hart was the standard-bearer for excellent wrestling in WWE, becoming the promotion’s World Champion on five separate occasions.

    At Survivor Series 1999, two years after Bret’s departure in Montreal, Kurt Angle would bring his amateur wrestling background to the promotion and become a huge star.

    Dream Match

    Kurt and Angle never had the chance to wrestle each other in any promotion, but the Olympic Gold Medalist tried to make that happen over 15 years ago.

    Speaking in an interview with The A2theK Wrestling Show, Angle said that he always hoped to face the Hitman during his career.

    “Bret Hart was always my dream match from when I started in WWE. I always thought I’d have a match with him… He went to WCW, and unfortunately, he got knocked out and had the concussion and then he had a stroke.”

    Kurt Angle.

    Hart’s in-ring career ended after a concussion during a match at Starrcade 1999 but he would perform in a handful of matches in 2010 for WWE.

    WrestleMania

    Even after Hart’s retirement, Angle was hopeful that he could pull off a match with the Excellence of Execution.

    On the show, Kurt recalled pitching the match which was promptly declined.

     “I tried to get Bret to wrestle at WrestleMania, I believe, 21 (in 2005). I understood why he said no because where I am in my life now, I know I can’t have the Kurt Angle match that fans expect and Bret was trying to tell me at that particular time ‘I’m not the Bret Hart I used to be and I’m not gonna go out there and embarrass myself.’

    “I’m not the Bret Hart I used to be and I’m not gonna go out there and embarrass myself.”

    Bret Hart’s response to Kurt Angle when offered a match.

    “That’s where Bret Hart always was. And if he can’t do that, he’s not gonna do it at all.” 

    Instead of Hart, Angle would have a match-of-the-year candidate with Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 21, getting a victory over HBK.

    Bret Hart: Punching Vince McMahon is Probably the Greatest Thing I Ever Did

    h/t – Sportskeeda

  • Ric Flair Didn’t Know Charlotte Was Returning At SmackDown

    Ric Flair Didn’t Know Charlotte Was Returning At SmackDown

    Two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair didn’t know his daughter, Charlotte, was returning on last week’s SmackDown.

    Flair recently took to his podcast, “To Be The Man,” and discussed a variety of topics. The 16-time World Champion discussed being backstage for last week’s episode of SmackDown Live. The show featured some big spots, including a main event with Kevin Owens and John Cena teaming up against Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn.

    Charlotte Flair wwe
    (WWE)

    However, it also featured Flair’s daughter, Charlotte, returning from a long layoff to capture the SmackDown Women’s Title yet again. As it turns out, Flair had no idea his daughter was going to be at the show, and he had already left the building when she did.

    “I was in the building and left and didn’t know it. It was the first time in so many years that nobody knew. I was in the building, I went and saw Roman (Reigns) and John (Cena), it was the greatest time and I really felt like part of the family again.

    “I had a ball, but I didn’t even know. I left and went to American Social [sports bar in Tampa, FL], and then I got word that she was there. I had a couple of drinks with the hockey players.

    “Hockey players on the Lightning like to drink. I wasn’t going to go back to the building. I watched it and they put it on every TV for me. It was amazing. That was old-school kayfabe.” 

    Charlotte Flair returned on SmackDown, challenging Ronda Rousey for her title just after Rousey had defended the title successfully against Raquel Rodriguez. After a big boot and a spear, Flair was crowned the new SmackDown Women’s Champion.

    It was Flair’s first appearance since she dropped the title to Rousey last year at WrestleMania Backlash in their I Quit Match.

    Quotes via NoDq.com

  • WWE Expects Mercedes Mone To Return Eventually

    WWE Expects Mercedes Mone To Return Eventually

    WWE expects Mercedes Mone (Sasha Banks) to return to the company eventually.

    As noted, Mone made her New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) debut this week at Wrestle Kingdom 17. She confronted IWGP Women’s Champion KAIRI, teasing an eventual title match.

    Also, it was teased that Mone could end up being revealed as Saraya’s surprise tag team partner against Britt Baker and Jamie Hayter for next week’s episode of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) Dynamite in Los Angeles.

    However, on yesterday’s episode, it was revealed that Saraya would be teaming up with Toni Storm instead. Baker did tease the Mone rumors during her own promo, suggesting that she is “The Boss.” Dave Meltzer shed some light on the situation during a recent edition of Wrestling Observer Radio.

    Meltzer noted that Mone is not in Los Angeles and is not coming to AEW. He speculates that Mone doesn’t want to make the commitment to AEW, as any would be a long-term one. It was added that WWE feels “very strongly” that she won’t wrestle for AEW.

    In fact, WWE expects Mone back at some point after she gets this out of her system. Mone will do a few NJPW matches which will only keep her contracted for a short period of time. However, if she were to work with AEW it would likely be under a three-year deal minimum.

    It wouldn’t be a smart move on AEW’s part to put Mone on television, only to have her back with WWE in a few months.

  • “Hollywood” – Will Roman Reigns be Stepping Away from WWE in 2023?

    “Hollywood” – Will Roman Reigns be Stepping Away from WWE in 2023?

    Is Roman Reigns’ tenure as the most dominant star in WWE going to come to an end this year?

    Reigns has for years been WWE’s top performer, which earned him considerable backlash from fans who didn’t appreciate the Big Dog being forced on them.

    In 2020, Reigns returned from a four-month absence as his current Tribal Chief character, earning acclaim from fans and those in the industry for his transformation.

    Hollywood

    Since capturing the Universal Championship at WWE Payback in August 2020, Reigns has been virtually untouchable in the ring.

    Last year, Reigns signed a new deal with WWE, one that has resulted in fewer matches and fewer appearances by the Head of the Table.

    Giving his 2023 predictions during his Strictly Business podcast, Eric Bischoff suggested that Reigns may walk away from the ring this year, then pursue a career in acting.

    “[I predict] Roman Reigns is crossing over into mainstream entertainment. You know, I haven’t had my finger on you know Roman’s career or his trajectory so far, but [with his cousin The Rock] it kind of makes a little bit of sense doesn’t it?

    You know in Hollywood it’s not about how good you are necessarily, It’s how good you are and who you know. I think Roman has put his toe in the water and now he’s got a little bit of a taste of Hollywood.

    “Roman has put his toe in the water and now he’s got a little bit of a taste of Hollywood.”

    Eric Bischoff.

    I think Roman Reigns’s long Title reign will come to an end this year and I think the best thing that you could do would be for him to step away for a few months.”

    In 2019, Reigns appeared alongside his cousin in ‘Hobbs and Shaw’ a spin-off of the Fast and Furious franchise.

    Dethroning the Tribal Chief

    Reigns has been Universal Champion for the past 857 days, and captured the WWE Championship last April at WrestleMania 38.

    After Bischoff’s co-host Jon Alba said he believes the long-rumored WrestleMania match between Reigns and The Rock isn’t happening, Bischoff gave his pick for who should be WWE’s next Undisputed Universal Champion.

    “I just saw a picture on social media of a WWE truck, a production truck, wrapped with a WrestleMania rap that featured Cody Rhodes. I think Cody’s going to be the guy this year and as he should be in my opinion.”

    “I think Cody’s going to be the guy this year and as he should be in my opinion.”

    Eric Bischoff.

    Bischoff reiterated that Reigns would be smart to walk away the ring at 37 years old with plenty of time to try new projects.

    “If I’m Roman and I know my bank account’s good. My Investment Portfolio is good and I’m still young enough and healthy enough especially given his circumstances, I’m going to get out while the getting’s good brother and step into the next phase of my life.”

    In addition to Hobbs and Shaw, Reigns appeared in The Wong Missy (2020,) and provided his voice for the animated wrestling movie Rumble (2021.)

    Roman Reigns Addresses The State Of His WWE Title Run
    For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.
  • William Regal is Officially Back With WWE (Report)

    William Regal is Officially Back With WWE (Report)

    William Regal has returned to WWE in an official capacity. 

    His previous title with the company had been WWE Director of Talent Development and Head of Global Recruiting. He was released from WWE on January 5, 2022, due to budget cuts, along with several others who were part of Triple H’s team in NXT. 

    According to a report from PWInsider, Regal is back with WWE as of this morning and is set to be a vice president, although his actual job title has not yet been revealed.

    How We Got Here

    Regal joined AEW at the Revolution pay-per-view on March 6, 2022, before he officially announced his departure on December 30, 2022. 

    AEW President Tony Khan previously revealed the details behind Regal’s AEW release during an ROH Final Battle press conference on December 12, 2022. According to Khan, Regal wanted to return to WWE to be with his friends and work with his son, who wrestles in NXT as Charlie Dempsey. 

    Regal had the following to say about his time in AEW. 

    “Yesterday was my last official day with @AEW. I’d like to thank @TonyKhan, Megha and all the hard working crew. Contrary to people who’ve never spoken to me or have their information from people who don’t know me or are trying to make themselves noticed, I had a lovely time working there and had a great time. Lots of talented Wrestlers, and lovely people to work for. To my fellow BCC members, it was a special, albeit brief few months but it cemented our already strong friendship. To everyone there, thank you for welcoming me. Best wishes.”

    Regal and Triple H have been friends for years. In his previous stint, Regal was Triple H’s, right-hand man.

  • Will Ospreay Discusses Potential Crossover Match With Seth Rollins

    Will Ospreay Discusses Potential Crossover Match With Seth Rollins

    Will Ospreay seems to be interested in a crossover match with WWE’s Seth Rollins.

    Ospreay recently spoke with Sportkeeda’s WrestleBinge on a variety of topics, including a potentially crossover match with WWE’s “Architect.” He noted that Rollins is more than welcome to make the trip over to Japan to settle their differences.

    “I think it would be good to — I mean, obviously all the smoke is cleared between myself and Seth. But like, there’s always that desire or want to see two guys just beat the crap out of one another, right? So if Seth’s still got a bit of an issue, then I’ve got a bit of an issue. So he’s more than welcome to come over to Japan.” 

    Seth Rollins
    (WWE)

    Back in 2019, Rollins and Ospreay found themselves in a Twitter back-and-forth that apparently developed some bad blood between the pair. Ospreay has seemingly noted that the issues have now subsided, but a match between them would still be interesting.

    Recently, Ospreay dropped the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship to Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom 17. As for Rollins, he failed to capture the United States Championship from Austin Theory on Monday Night RAW this week.

    He also apparently suffered an injury during the bout, meaning any potential matchup between Ospreay and Rollins won’t be happening anytime soon.

    Quotes via 411Mania

  • Mick Foley On He & Stephanie McMahon Standing Up To Vince

    Mick Foley On He & Stephanie McMahon Standing Up To Vince

    WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley and Stephanie McMahon teamed up against Vince McMahon to get their way on television.

    Foley recently took to his podcast, “Foley Is Pod,” to discuss his 2016 return to WWE as RAW General Manager. The former WWE Champion explained what it was like to work alongside Stephanie McMahon for that period of time.

    “I got maybe ten percent of what I wanted out of Vince. Then Stephanie and I went and cut the promo our own way. It was a lot of tension. We are overriding Vince’s edict. We cut the promo. He sees us cutting the promo, he goes “what the hell is going on here?”

    “Stephanie goes “dad, Mick and I did this just to see what happened. We’d like you to take a look at it.” And it was about a three minute segment. He looked at it after, seemed like an eternity, nodded his head and went, “we’ll do it your way.”

    “As soon as he turned the corner, we hugged. We were just so happy that we had stood up for ourselves.”

    Mick Foley
    Mick Foley

    He detailed how he and Stephanie teamed up with one another against Vince McMahon to get their way for a promo on television. Ultimately, their efforts proved to be successful after it was all said and done.

    Mick Foley returned to WWE in 2016 to serve as General Manager for Monday Night RAW alongside commissioner Stephanie McMahon. The stint lasted just under a year as Foley was eventually written off television when he was fired by Stephanie McMahon.

    Since, Foley has continued to make sporadic appearances on WWE television.

    https://youtu.be/qtuntLOhdc8

    Quotes via 411Mania

  • Sasha Banks Thanks WWE, Triple H, and Vince McMahon

    Sasha Banks Thanks WWE, Triple H, and Vince McMahon

    Mercedes Varnado, formerly known as Sasha Banks, has given her thanks hours before she is reportedly expected to appear at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17

    The former WWE star sent out multiple thank you messages on social media to WWE, Vince McMahon, Triple H, William Regal, the WWE Universe, The Krew (her fans), and her former persona. 

    Banks hasn’t appeared on WWE television since last May when she and Naomi, who were the reigning WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions at the time, walked out on the company due to a creative dispute with Vince McMahon. 

    Giving Thanks

    Banks negotiated her WWE release months ago before becoming a free agent on January 1. 

    AEW talent told Fightful Select they’ve been “no sold” when asking about Sasha Banks being Saraya’s partner on January 11, but they’re still of the belief it’s her. 

    “The fact that it wasn’t shot down either on screen or internally, promoting it a month out, it being a week after her Wrestle Kingdom appearance, and the cast of characters involved in the tag match were all points brought up to us by talent in the company when assuming it was her.”

    One talent said they didn’t believe a deal was done or “could have been completed” as of last week because she had to wait out her WWE non-compete clause. 

  • Bianca Belair Receives Stitches After Alexa Bliss’ Attack on WWE Raw

    Bianca Belair Receives Stitches After Alexa Bliss’ Attack on WWE Raw

    Bianca Belair had to get stitches following her match on Monday’s WWE Raw.

    On the January 2 edition of the weekly show, Belair defeated Alexa Bliss via disqualification to retain the Raw Women’s Championship after Bliss snapped and attacked Belair after more mind games by Bray Wyatt. 

    After the match, Bliss continued to attack Belair by throwing her into the steel steps and then hitting a pair of DDTs on the steps. Belair came out bleeding from the match after the attack.

    Stitches

    Belair took to Twitter to post photos showing several stitches to her face after the attack with Bliss. The E.S.T. of WWE wrote the following caption:

    “I am not okay…But @AlexaBliss_WWE won’t be either…Payback is a…3 Stitch Belair.”

    WWE had Bliss explain later in the broadcast why she attacked Belair, which was her taking control back and wanting the Raw Women’s Title back as she felt it was hers, not Bianca’s.

    This is leading to a rematch between Bliss and Belair, but the question remains when it will occur. While it’s possible they run it back on an upcoming episode of Raw, perhaps even the 30 Anniversary show, WWE may save it for the Royal Rumble. 

  • Naomi Reportedly Expected to Return to WWE

    Naomi Reportedly Expected to Return to WWE

    Hours before her former WWE tag team partner prepares to make an expected return to the wrestling stage on Wednesday in Japan, Naomi’s wrestling future has some clarity after several months of uncertainty as she is slated to make a return to WWE. 

    Bryan Alvarez reported on Tuesday’s Wrestling Observer Live that his impression is that Naomi would be returning to the company, meaning she will not be joining NJPW along with Sasha Banks.

    Naomi is Staying

    “My belief is she will be returning to WWE because she will almost certainly be returning to WWE,” he said on the broadcast, although he did not give any return date or timeline.

    Banks is expected to appear at tonight’s NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17, marking her promotional debut. As previously reported, Naomi is reportedly in the country, as is Bayley, in a show of support for their good friends. 

    Banks and Naomi, then WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, walked out before an episode of WWE Raw in May 2022 due to issues with their creative direction. They were later stripped of the titles and suspended. 

    Throughout 2022, fans speculated about them potentially returning to WWE, especially after Vince McMahon resigned and Triple H took over as head of creative as part of the new regime this summer.

    Last month it was first reported that Banks was headed to NJPW with her expected to make an appearance at this event.  She is currently a free agent after she negotiated her WWE release several months ago. 

  • Booker T Will Remain NXT Announcer, Wade Barrett’s Future Uncertain

    Booker T Will Remain NXT Announcer, Wade Barrett’s Future Uncertain

    Booker T is staying full-time with WWE NXT. 

    After the Triple H regime took over in the middle of 2022, the broadcast teams for Raw, NXT, and SmackDown were switched up. 

    Wade Barrett was moved from NXT to SmackDown as Pat McAfee focused on his duties with ESPN’s College Gameday. WWE brought in Booker T for the NXT role and has been calling the action alongside Vic Joseph. The belief was that after McAfee would return after the college football season wrapped up, Barrett would return to NXT. 

    While speaking on the newest episode of Booker’s ‘Hall of Fame’ podcast, the WWE Hall Of Famer shared that his NXT commentary stint was supposed to wrap up in December, but he’s now full-time on the brand and joked about taking Wade Barrett’s spot.

    Booker T is Staying

    “I gotta get back to work. NXT duties start tomorrow. My thing is, that job was only supposed to be until the end of December. But like I say, what’s that kid’s name that used to work there?… Yeah, Wade Barrett. He’s gone and forgotten as you can see. That’s my job now. That’s my job, full-time… I’m full-time now. I’m full-time on NXT, all right? I’m gonna be up in your ear, all up in your ear, every Tuesday (Booker laughed)… Wade Barrett, I don’t know if they’re gonna keep him on, find a spot for him over on Raw or SmackDown or something but his ass ain’t coming back to NXT.

    This week’s episode of NXT is the first live show for the brand in several weeks and will be the go-home episode before the New Year’s Evil special on January 10th. 

    H/T to POST Wrestling for the transcription

  • Alexa Bliss Plans to Stay Off Twitter for Mental Health Reasons

    Alexa Bliss Plans to Stay Off Twitter for Mental Health Reasons

    Alexa Bliss is just one of many WWE stars who have to deal with negativity on social media. While there is negativity on social media platforms, there is also positivity, and they receive praise from fans. 

    Bliss is looking to stay off social media to improve herself heading into the new year. 

    Despite her success and fame, some fans don’t like her. In a post on Twitter, Bliss stated that she is focusing on improving her physical and mental health by going off Twitter. This appears to be a new year’s resolution. She wrote the following: 

    The Change

    “This year I’m focusing on my mental & physical health & I think majority of that is gonna boil down to staying off twitter lol.”

    The WWE star has found a lot of success in WWE across all three brands Raw, NXT, and SmackDown. Throughout her time in WWE, she has won a total of 8 championships. 

    Bliss was in action on Monday’s episode of Raw when she challenged Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair. The match saw Bliss snap at a WWE official and give Belair a beatdown. It appears that WWE will build to a rematch at the upcoming Royal Rumble event, but that has yet to be confirmed. 

  • Cody Rhodes’ WWE Return ‘Absolutely Not’ Going To Be A Surprise

    Cody Rhodes’ WWE Return ‘Absolutely Not’ Going To Be A Surprise

    When Cody Rhodes does return to WWE, it’s “absolutely not” going to be a surprise.

    As seen on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW, WWE has begin hyping up Rhodes return with a multi-part video series. Dave Meltzer addressed this on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio. Meltzer noted that, many speculated that Rhodes would return as a surprise entrant in this year’s Royal Rumble match.

    However, Meltzer says that’s “absolutely not” going to be. Instead, WWE is focusing on their multi-part series to hype up his return. He ended by saying, evidently, Rhodes will be slotted into a high spot on the WrestleMania 39 card.

    Rhodes returned to WWE in April of last year as the surprise opponent for Seth Rollins at “The Show Of Shows.” After emerging victorious in, arguably, the match of the weekend, Rhodes went on to continue an excellent feud with Rollins over the next several weeks.

    Cody Rhodes
    (via WWE)

    This culminated into a Hell In A Cell match at the similarly named Premium Event later in the year. However, it would prove to be Rhodes’ final match before an injury layoff, as he entered the bout with a torn pectoral muscle that would need surgical repair and rehabilitation.

    Now, Rhodes is expected to be wrapping up his recovery soon, and is right around the corner from getting back into the ring – just in time for WrestleMania season. While it’s expected he’ll have a high profile match at WrestleMania 39 in Los Angeles, it remains to be seen who his opponent will be.

  • Booker T Doesn’t Believe Mandy Rose’s FanTime Earnings Will Be Sustainable

    Booker T Doesn’t Believe Mandy Rose’s FanTime Earnings Will Be Sustainable

    Although it’s said she made a staggering amount of money, WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T doesn’t believe Mandy Rose’s FanTime earnings will be sustainable in the long run.

    The two-time WWE Hall Of Famer recently took to his podcast, “The Hall Of Fame,” to offer his thoughts on the situation. After it was claimed that Rose made about $1 million in earnings last month from her FanTime account, Booker said he doesn’t believe that will be enough to hold her over if she’s “living large.”

    “Speaking on the staggering dollar figure, Booker T said. “”A million dollars ain’t gonna take care of you for a solid year if you’re living large.” He continued, “I think [Rose launching a FanTime account] was the wrong decision, and I stand by that because I feel that Mandy Rose’s talent was so much more than her beauty.”

    Mandy Rose
    (WWE)

    FanTime actually congratulated Rose for earning $1 million in the month of December. She’s listed as one of the site’s top creators on its homepage. However, WWE didn’t appear to be too excited by Rose’s side business.

    She was released from the company after it was discovered that she was posting mature content on her profile. Rose had reigned as WWE NXT Women’s Champion for 413 days before she was defeated by Roxanne Perez on the December 13 episode of NXT.

    It proved to be Rose’s final match before news of her release came through. Just prior to her release, Rose’s FanTime content got leaked to the public, which is likely what put it on WWE’s radar.

    Quotes via Wrestling Inc.