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Category: WWE

  • Unannounced Match Listed Internally For WWE Clash At The Castle

    Unannounced Match Listed Internally For WWE Clash At The Castle

    WWE has officially announced one match for the upcoming Clash at the Castle premium live event, but there’s a second match internally listed for the show. 

    Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that Riddle vs. Seth Rollins is “confirmed internally” for this event. 

    Riddle vs. Rollins was originally scheduled for SummerSlam this past Saturday night but the company did an injury angle where Riddle suffered a stinger due to an attack from Rollins on the SummerSlam go-home episode of Raw.

    At the time, it was reported that WWE had tentative plans to do the match down the line with the working plan for it to be held at Clash at the Castle. 

    At SummerSlam, Rollins attacked Riddle, who wanted to go through with the match. On Monday’s Raw, Rollins teased, eventually going after Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. 

    WWE presents the Clash at the Castle event on Saturday, September 3, 2022, from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, that will air on Peacock. 

    Drew McIntyre will challenge Reigns for the title at the main event at this show. WWE will be announcing more matches for this event in the coming weeks.

  • Former WWE Star Recalls Vince McMahon Nearly Making Out With John Laurinaitis

    Former WWE Star Recalls Vince McMahon Nearly Making Out With John Laurinaitis

    When Rusev lost the WWE United States Championship (and his undefeated streak) to John Cena at WrestleMania 31 in 2015, the Bulgarian didn’t take it well.

    After failing to regain the title, Rusev would blame his manager Lana, played by his then-girlfriend and future-wife CJ Perry.

    What followed was a love triangle over the Summer, in which Rusev aligned with Summer Rae, while Lana had an on-screen romantic relationship with Dolph Ziggler.

    The Kiss

    On the May 18, 2015 Monday Night Raw, Lana confirmed her relationship with Ziggler, kissing the two-time former World Heavyweight Champion.

    Speaking to Renee Paquette on ‘The Sessions,’ Perry recalled rehearsal for the angle, and having to practice kissing in front of the then-WWE CEO (via Wrestling News.)

    “It’s Ace [John Laurinaitis] Vince [McMahon, Dolph, and Miro. We had to practice the kiss and Miro is turning red in the corner. Vince is like, ‘What? We’re all adults. What’s the problem? We’re all adults. It’s professionalism. Don’t be weird.’ So we do it, and Vince goes, ‘No, no, no, no, way slower.’ He doesn’t fully kiss Johnny Ace, but he gets like this close. I mean, it was hilarious. Dolph is dying.”

    “He doesn’t fully kiss Johnny Ace, but he gets like this close.”

    CJ Perry on Vince McMahon’s attempts to teach her how to kiss Dolph Ziggler

    Perry added that when she recently rewatched the kiss with a friend, it was noticed how slow she and Ziggler kiss.

    She adds that McMahon “wanted it to be innocent,” as if she had never kissed a man before.

    Lana Says She Was “Brainwashed” By Toxic WWE
  • Logan Paul Won’t Be Wrestling Again Anytime Soon

    Logan Paul Won’t Be Wrestling Again Anytime Soon

    Logan Paul picked up a win over The Miz in his singles debut at last Saturday’s WWE SummerSlam event. This was just one match as part of his multi-year contract with WWE. 

    Unfortunately, Logan Paul won’t be wrestling for WWE anytime soon, as he’s focusing on a proposed boxing match in December. Paul confirmed this during the latest episode of the Pat McAfee Show as he revealed he hopes to get the fight booked.

    Logan Paul’s Next Boxing Fight

    Although he teased having a few people in mind for the fight, Logan Paul didn’t reveal who he would be fighting next. 

    In the past, Paul has been linked to several different fighters, including a boxing match against former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva, but the fight has yet to be made. He has also expressed interest in fighting former two-division UFC Champion Conor McGregor. 

    Paul’s last fight came against fellow YouTuber KSI back in 2019, losing via a split decision. It’s possible a third fight with KSI could be an option for his return to the ring.

    Paul’s first wrestling match was when he teamed with The Miz against The Mysterios at WrestleMania 38 in April.

    Visit MMANews.com for more on Logan (and Jake) Paul’s fighting careers, as well as general news about UFC and the world of Mixed Martial Arts.

  • Potential Reason Why Vince McMahon Changed His Mind About Retirement

    Potential Reason Why Vince McMahon Changed His Mind About Retirement

    Vince McMahon’s abrupt WWE departure is still a puzzling development. Famous for his work ethic, people thought that McMahon will work till his wheels fell off. Even when the allegations against him first came to light, the boss had been promising talent that he was going to stick around. Many still wonder what made him change his mind.

    Dave Meltzer believes the prospect of hurting the legacy of the company could have been the reason behind this change. The wrestling journalist opened up about McMahon’s departure on Talk Is Jericho. He explained what could have forced the former WWE chairman to change his mind:

    “Obviously there was something huge. I’m sure it was not a voluntary decision, but it was one of those things where you are now in a position where you’re going to hurt the company. I do believe that if Vince McMahon thought that he was going to hurt the company by staying that he would leave.

    I think that’s the one thing he would do. He’s not gonna take his legacy down. The WWE is his life legacy. He’s gonna be there long after he’s gone. I don’t think he wants to be the one to take it down, I think he wants it to live forever.”

    Meltzer also talked about the allegations against Mr. McMahon. He explained how the the board of directors first became aware of the accusations despite an NDA being signed. You can check out his comments here.

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  • Backstage News On How Vince McMahon Allegations Came To Light

    Backstage News On How Vince McMahon Allegations Came To Light

    The wrestling world has been shaken with the retirement of Vince McMahon. The majority of the wresting fans didn’t expect to see this day anytime soon. However, in only a few short weeks, the boss has not only been forced to relinquish all his positions in the company but his name has essentially been erased from the promotion.

    It all started with the first allegation that was made against the boss back in March. It was revealed that McMahon had signed an NDA worth $3 million with a released WWE employee. Dave Meltzer discussed it during his appearance on Talk Is Jericho. He explained how the allegations became public despite an NDA:

    “She had an NDA, somehow one of her friends found out. Her friend sent a message to every member of the board [of directors]. So this would have been in late March saying, ‘This is what happened.’ [She was] very negative about [WWE attorny] Jerry McDevitt , like pressuring her and things like that.

    She [the ex-employee] couldn’t come out but somebody did, and they investigated and found out that it was real. In the investigation they found out it was not the first NDA. That there had been several others over the years.”

    The discovery of the first NDA led to further investigation. It unearthed more nondisclosure agreements related to misconduct claims against Vince McMahon totalling $12 Million. These NDAs had not been disclosed in WWE’s SEC filing which is believed to be a big reason why the WWE owner had to leave the promotion.

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  • Update on Riddle’s WWE Return After Storyline Injury

    Update on Riddle’s WWE Return After Storyline Injury

    At Summerslam 2022, Riddle was scheduled to face Seth Rollins, the culmination of a lengthy feud between the two.

    Before the show began, it was announced that Riddle had been pulled from the show, as he had been “medically disqualified.”

    On The Bump, it was said that Riddle had suffered a brachial plexus injury, better known to fans as a ‘stinger’ while being attacked by Rollins.

    Riddle’s Return

    Riddle hasn’t wrestled since the July 25, 2022 episode of Raw, where he and the Street Profits lost to The Bloodline.

    According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Riddle will wrestle Seth Rollins at the “Saturday Night’s Main Event” show in North Charleston, South Carolina.

    The two will also face off at the “Sunday Stunner” event in Fayetteville, North Carolina the next night.

    While these matches had been advertised in the local area, there was uncertainty over Riddle’s availability due to his injury from Rollins.

    Rollins Vs. Riddle

    When WWE announced that the Riddle Vs. Seth Rollins Summerslam match was off, they confirmed that the bout had been ‘postponed.’

    WWE has not given an update as to when the match will happen though many believe it will happen next month.

    The belief is that WWE delayed the Summerslam match so that they have a big match to promote for WWE Clash at the Castle.

    Clash at the Castle will take place at the Principality Stadium, in Cardiff, Wales, and will mark WWE’s biggest event in the UK since Summerslam 1992.

    Riddle Offers Injury Update On Randy Orton
  • UFC Star ‘Desperately’ Wants To Be In WWE

    UFC Star ‘Desperately’ Wants To Be In WWE

    Current UFC Star Sam Alvey thinks that his stint with the MMA giant might be coming to an end soon, and he is eying a potential WWE career if that turns out to be the case.

    The MMA star is set to face Michael Oleksiejczuk on ESPN 40 on Saturday, August 6. With a 33-17-1 record, he is not sure he will be fighting again after his upcoming match.

    Alvey talked about the possibility of this being his last UFC fight in an interview with SportsKeeda. He said that if his relationship with UFC ends, he ‘desperately’ wants to join WWE:

    “You know, if the UFC and I decided not to continue our relationship together, I want so desperately to be in the WWE. That is what got me into fighting, to begin with. I love that sport. I love every part of it. That would be a dream.

    But I like fighting so much, I don’t want to stop. I’m sure I will land on my feet in, I don’t know, Bare Knuckle boxing, maybe, I’ll go back to Bellator, or, I love tournaments the PFL tournament might be perfect for me,”

    Later in the interview, Sam Alvey also discussed his love for pro wrestling and revealed who were his favorite wrestlers as a child growing up.

    He noted that he loves The Rock and claimed that Chris Jericho is high on his list too. Alvey revealed that he has been re-watching stuff from Jericho recently.

    Visit MMANews.com for more from the UFC and the world of Mixed Martial Arts

    Quotes via Fightful

  • Bayley Explains Idea Behind Her New Faction

    Bayley Explains Idea Behind Her New Faction

    Bayley made her triumphant return at SummerSlam but she wasn’t alone. She shared her moment with Dakota Kai and Io Sky and formed a new faction with both the stars.

    The former women’s champion talked about her new group on After The Bell. She explained that it’s something that she had wanted for a while and they had considered different versions of the group. The idea was that it would help evolve her character:

    “This is something that I’ve wanted for a while, I would say a couple of years. [It’s] actually something that I’ve talked to Hunter about before. Just wanting something different for the division and using girls that I think were either underutilized or that didn’t get that opportunity or didn’t get that spotlight. Just a way to evolve myself as in like many different variations of this faction or group that I wanted.”

    ‘Ultimate Goal Of Everybody’: Bayley

    Bayley made her return at SummerSlam

    Though as she got the time to think more about it during her rehab, Bayley realized that she wanted to help underutilized talents. She wanted to take names that hadn’t been on Raw or SmackDown and get them to WrestleMania level:

    “But as I got injured and got to spend more time really thinking about it, I knew that I wanted literally girls who haven’t had the opportunity [to be on] Raw or Smackdown or that haven’t been given an opportunity to feel what WrestleMania is like. Because that’s the ultimate goal of everybody.

    I just felt like if I look for girls that haven’t had that yet, just the hunger is gonna be that much stronger. It’s just gonna be fresher for the fans and fresher for the locker room where they’ll get excited to work with different people.” said Bayley, “So once I thought of it like that. [I] thought let me look at NXT. It was so easy. I knew who I wanted and I knew who could benefit from it. I knew who I can benefit from.”

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  • Lex Luger: I’d Walk Again for WWE Hall of Fame Induction

    Lex Luger: I’d Walk Again for WWE Hall of Fame Induction

    For years, Lex Luger was a wrestler who’s character was based on his incredible physique.

    Famously boasting a 4% body fat, Luger was referred to in WWE as ‘The Narcissist’ but a series of medical issues, including a spinal stroke have taken their toll.

    In 2014, Luger said he was using a wheelchair on a regular basis, though he was still able to walk short distances, but became completely reliant on a wheelchair for mobility last year.

    The Hall of Fame

    Luger has said he would work hard to walk again if he could walk onto the stage at the WWE Hall of Fame. 

    In an interview with Sports Illustrated released on Thursday, Luger spoke about his health and possible induction into the WWE Hall of Fame.

    “I might pop out of the chair for that [a WWE Hall of Fame induction.] I would take that chance if that moment comes. That honor would be the cherry on top of my career.”

    “I might pop out of the chair for that.”

    Lex Luger on a possible WWE Hall of Fame induction.

    The 64-year-old will be the focus of Sunday’s episode of Biography: WWE Legends on A&E. 

    Is an induction coming?

    A former WCW World Heavyweight Champion, Luger had a rich career in wrestling that certainly warrants a Hall of Fame induction.

    Last year, Jim Ross said that Luger should be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, saying that it would be a “popular decision.”

    Mick Foley has also expressed support for a Luger induction.

    Latest On Lex Lugar’s Health
  • Watch: ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan Provides Emotional Update On Cancer Treatment

    Watch: ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan Provides Emotional Update On Cancer Treatment

    WWE Legend ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan has provided a great news about his health to his fans and confirmed that he is officially cancer free.

    The WWE Hall of Famer shared a video on Instagram. It showed him ringing the cancer bell that hospitals have to celebrate the end of treatment for cancer patients.

    In an emotional speech, Duggan mentioned how he had been listening to other people ringing the bell for weeks. He had been looking forward to getting the chance himself:

    “For 8 weeks I’ve been coming by, looking at this bell, listening to the other folks coming by and ringing the bell,” said Jim Duggan, “I’ve been looking forward to it.”

    The wrestling veteran went on to thank his doctors, nurses and technicians as well as his family, friends and all the fans for their support.

    Jim Duggan underwent a procedure to remove his prostate in October 2021. He had announced later that year that he was cancer free.

    Unfortunately for the former WWE star, the cancer returned in March earlier this year. He described it as a ‘terrifying time’ for his family and confirmed that he would have to undergo treatment.

  • Has The Backstage Environment Changed After Vince McMahon’s Retirement

    Has The Backstage Environment Changed After Vince McMahon’s Retirement

    Fans were expecting major changes in WWE after Vince McMahon’s retirement. However, we have only seen small adjustments both on screen and behind the scenes as well.

    WWE star Butch, previously known as Pete Dunne had an interview with Digital Spy. When asked about the backstage environment, he reiterated the remarks of Ciampa.

    Butch revealed just like fans, people backstage were also shocked upon hearing the news of McMahon’s retirement last month. Though according to him, things have been ‘strangely normal’ since then:

    “To be honest, up till now, it all feels strangely normal. Even the day when we were at SmackDown and we got notified that Vince had retired, obviously there’s that second of people looking around like, ‘Did you see that? Can you believe this has happened?’

    But then after that,” recalled Butch, “Everyone’s so focused on the job that’s at hand it kind of feels strangely normal but exciting at the same time.”

    The former NXT UK champion also discussed Triple H taking over the WWE creative. He claimed that the former world champion is extremely approachable.

    He explained that Triple H is someone who is excited to put out the best content he can, and it’s what the Black and Gold NXT was all about.

  • Update On Length Of Booker T’s WWE Contract

    Update On Length Of Booker T’s WWE Contract

    Despite not having wrestled a televised match in over a decade, Booker T knows how to remain in news. He continues making headlines one way or the other.

    With AEW successfully using legends like Sting and Tully Blanchard to help promote younger talents, many wonder if we can see the former WCW champion joining Tony Khan’s promotion anytime in the near future.

    T was asked about this on the latest episode of his Hall of Fame podcast. Replying to it, Booker revealed that he actually has a lot of time left on his contract with WWE:

    “I got about six years left on my contract, seven maybe, I ain’t going nowhere, man. I’m never going to say never, or anything like that, but I actually love where I’m at with the WWE.”

    – Booker T

    Booker T does make indie appearances every now and then while also running his Reality of Wrestling promotion from the Houston area.

    The former world champion just recently created some buzz by returning to in-ring action for a 10 men tag team match at an ROW event.

    Though despite his recent outing, Booker T has claimed that he has no intention of holding a ‘Ric Flair’s Last Match’ type event of his own.

    Quotes via WrestlingInc

  • Glenn Jacobs Re-elected As Mayor Of Knox County

    Glenn Jacobs Re-elected As Mayor Of Knox County

    Glenn Jacobs, better known to WWE fans as The Big Red Monster Kane has been re-elected as the mayor of Knox County, Tennessee.

    The wrestling veteran defeated Democratic nominee Debbie Helsley in the election. Speaking about his victory at a watch party at the Crowne Plaza in downtown Knoxville, he said that he is grateful for people’s trust:

    “It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve as mayor for the past four years,” said Glenn Jacobs, “and I am just so grateful that you have trusted me to work hard to keep our economy strong and to protect our freedoms and our way of life,”

    The former world champion also thanked his political opponents who ran for the office in his address. He said that we should respect anyone who is willing to put their name on the ballot in the current contentious political environment.

    As of this writing, a total of 63% of precincts had been counted. Jacobs had been leading the tally by more than 4,400, in a total of 43,000 votes that had been cast

    Glenn Jacobs first announced his political intentions back in March 2017. He had defeated Linda Haney to become the Mayor of Knox County back then.

    Kane has been criticized for some of his recent remarks on issues such as abortion rights, but it doesn’t appear to have affected his political career.

  • Latest On Lex Lugar’s Health

    Latest On Lex Lugar’s Health

    Lex Lugar had a wrestling career spanning two decades across multiple well-known promotions. At 64 years old, the former WWE star says that it’s mind-boggling how good of a shape he is in.

    The latest episode of Biography: WWE Legends on A&E will focus on the former world champion. He spoke to Sports Illustrated to promote the upcoming documentary.

    During the interview, Lugar provided some updates on his health. He claimed that it’s a miracle of God how good of a shape he is in:

    “It’s mind-boggling. I’m in phenomenal health, other than my mobility issues from my spinal cord issue, I’m very healthy, and that’s a miracle of God after what I put my body through. I usually use a wheelchair or a walker, but I can walk some.”

    The former WCW star then mentioned that he has great mobility and he can drive. Though he also revealed some concerning issues:

    “I have great mobility; I drive. But you know how your power will go out for a moment during a storm? That can happen to me, and I’m on the floor before I know it.

    So I take a lot of precautions. I live totally independently, which wasn’t supposed to happen. I don’t look the same because I don’t hit the weights like I used to, but I’m healthy.”

    The retired wrestling star commented on the potential of a Hall of Fame induction as well. Lex Lugar said that the honor would be a cherry on the top of his career and he might ‘pop out of the chair’ for it.

  • Becky Lynch Calls Triple H Heading WWE Creative ‘Phenomenal’

    Becky Lynch Calls Triple H Heading WWE Creative ‘Phenomenal’

    Becky Lynch thinks that Triple H heading WWE creative now is “phenomenal.”

    There have been a ton of changes within WWE as of late. Following sexual misconduct allegations, Vince McMahon stepped down as WWE CEO, leaving Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan as co-CEOs.

    Soon after, McMahon retired as head of WWE creative after several investigations into those allegations began. In his place, his son-in-law, Triple H, has stepped in to fill the void.

    Speaking to ESPN recently, Becky Lynch has offered her take on the regime change. Although she’s saddened by McMahon retiring, Lynch admits that Triple H stepping in is “phenomenal.”

    “It is the dawning of a new era. For me, it’s crazy and sad because everything I’ve ever known about WWE has always had Vince in charge, and we wouldn’t have WWE the way it is if it wasn’t for Vince.

    “He’s somebody who believed in me and allowed me to do everything that I’ve done. We have the opportunity to change some things that maybe weren’t so great that we didn’t love.

    “I think everybody’s very excited and optimistic because we know that the people in charge [are] some of the greatest minds in the business, you know. Having Triple H at the helm of the ship is phenomenal.

    “There has been a tendency in the past for creative to change last minute, or we don’t know where we’re going. It’s hard to bring everybody along on this journey if we’re rambling.”

    Lynch is currently sidelined with an injured shoulder. She suffered that injury in her matchup with Bianca Belair at SummerSlam. Lynch failed to capture the RAW Women’s Title from Belair at the event.

    On this week’s episode of RAW, Lynch confirmed that she suffered the injury, and was subsequently written off TV after an attack by Bayley and her new stable backstage.

  • Undertaker Believes The WWE Product Will Get More Aggressive With Triple H In Charge

    Undertaker Believes The WWE Product Will Get More Aggressive With Triple H In Charge

    The wrestling world is still reeling from the shocking retirement of Vince McMahon, who decided to call it quits at 76 while he deals with the fallout from multiple allegations that surfaced in the mainstream media. In his absence WWE is now being run by Nick Khan and Stephanie McMahon as co-CEOs, and Triple H taking charge as head of the company’s creative.

    ESPN conducted an interview with several top superstars giving their thoughts on McMahon’s retirement, which included some input from one of the most respected WWE legends of all time, The Undertaker. The Deadman began by discussing what he foresees for the WWE now that there’s some new blood in charge.

    “They’re loosening the reins a little bit as far as what guys can say and do. I think the product will probably be a little more aggressive. I think that’s going to come through in the creative.”

    Taker already sees WWE attempting to make improvements, citing some recent action where commentators took notice of Montez Ford getting busted open and how little things like that help tell a bigger story.

    “Those things are going to help because WWE is going to do it better than anybody else, and they don’t throw things away. Hopefully, a lot of people there know how to rein things in and make things like that mean something instead of just doing it to do it.”

    The Hall of Famer would then discuss his longtime friend/rival Triple H running the creative side of WWE. Taker calls The Game brilliant, someone who he believes doesn’t get enough credit for his “wrestling acument.”

    “I mean, he’s brilliant, he really is. I don’t think he gets enough credit for his wrestling acumen. I think he’ll be a huge asset to the development of a lot of guys. And he’s a no bulls— kind of guy too. He’s going to let you know what you’re doing that’s right and what you’re doing that’s wrong.”

    When asked about his faith in Triple H’s leadership, Taker was quick to respond.

    “I think it’s going to be a step in the right direction with Hunter.”

    WWE is coming off a well-received SummerSlam, and a strong showing on Monday Night Raw. Can the momentum continue on this Friday’s SmackDown?

  • Pat McAfee Reveals How Often WWE Is Drug Testing Him

    Pat McAfee Reveals How Often WWE Is Drug Testing Him

    Pat McAfee has revealed how often WWE is drug testing him as a competitor and SmackDown Live commentator.

    McAfee was recently a guest on The Dan Patrick Show, where he talked about his time with the company. McAfee noted that, since joining WWE, he has been tested “numerous” times.

    “They drug test rather often at the WWE,” McAfee said. “Yes, they actually do now. There are always going to be people that talk about some people maybe aren’t getting tested.

    “There’s always conspiracy theories about everything, but I’ve been tested and given my blood to the WWE numerous times.… There was a lot of things that happen whenever you start injecting your body with stuff.

    “And people who were already maybe high energy or very emotional, and then there was some stuff that has happened through the evolution of human and the evolution of WWE where they have had to put in different rules.”

    Pat McAfee
    (via WWE)

    WWE has really ramped up their wellness policy over the years. No matter how big the star, seemingly nobody is given any leeway when it comes to the wellness policy. Names such as Roman Reigns, Rey Mysterio, Randy Orton, and more have faced suspensions over the years for failing drug tests.

    As for Pat McAfee, he’s likely tested more due to WWE also utilizing him as an in-ring competitor as well. Back at WrestleMania 38, McAfee went one-on-one with Theory in a bout that the ex-NFL punter won.

    However, he subsequently lost an impromptu match to Vince McMahon moments later. At SummerSlam last weekend, McAfee returned to the ring, defeating Happy Corbin in a singles contest as well.

    McAfee will remain a regular at the SmackDown Live commentary desk, while likely continuing to return to the ring on occasion.

    Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

  • Dwight Howard Details WWE Tryout Experience

    Dwight Howard Details WWE Tryout Experience

    Dwight Howard has opened up on his experience trying out for WWE.

    Last week, NBA star Dwight Howard took part in WWE tryouts during SummerSlam week. He was arguably the biggest surprise entrant in the entire crop of candidates who got into the ring.

    The Los Angeles Lakers center took part in a variety of drills, including cutting a promo. Speaking on WWE’s The Bump recently, Howard opened up about his tryout experience.

    Howard explained that he’s always had an interest in professional wrestling, and when Titus O’Neil presented him the opportunity to try out, he jumped on it.

    “Well, Titus O’Neil and myself are close friends, and we’ve talked about me being a wrestler one day. I told him that I was very, very interested in becoming a wrestler one day. It’s been a dream of mine.

    “I’ve always wanted to be on the big stage of wrestling, and I have all the WWE games and WCWs on N64 I play. So I just wanted to have an opportunity, and he said if you’re serious about wanting to be a wrestler, make your way to Tennessee, Nashville for SummerSlam and we’ll see how serious you are.

    “So I drove down to Nashville from Atlanta, me and my son and my cousin. We got this show on the road. I showed everybody how serious I was about the WWE and how honored I was about being in the presence of so many great people and just all the people at WWE. It was an amazing experience.”

    WWE is no stranger to signing professional athletes. They’ve inked the likes of various ex-NFL players, mixed martial artists, and various other sporting stars. Names such as Ronda Rousey, Pat McAfee, and Brock Lesnar top that list.

    Should Howard end up signing with WWE, he’ll certainly be one of the biggest names in sports to have made the transition over to professional wrestling.

    Quotes via WrestleZone

  • WWE Prospect Charged with Felony Sexual Battery

    WWE Prospect Charged with Felony Sexual Battery

    Last December, WWE announced the Next in Line Program, after an NCAA policy change allowed college athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness.

    Rather than focus on established wrestlers with years of experience outside WWE, the promotion’s strategy is to sign young athletes who they can train in WWE’s style of professional wrestling.

    Being a part of the NIL program gives the athletes access to WWE’s Performance Center in Orlando, but one of the company’s young prospects is in serious trouble.

    The Warrant

    Yesterday, a court issued an arrest warrant for AJ Ferrari, who faces a felony charge of sexual battery.

    According to documents obtained by The Oklahoman newspaper, the warrant was issued after an affidavit was filed by a detective in the Stillwater Police Department’s criminal investigations division.

    Bond has reportedly been set by Payne County District Court at $25,000, according to the Stillwater News Press.

    The Charge

    Ferrari is alleged to have performed unwanted sexual acts on a woman while holding her down on her bed on July 2.

    Three days after the alleged incident, the woman filed for an emergency protective order, and a hearing is scheduled for September 15.

    On July 13, Oklahoma State University announced that Ferrari is no longer on their wrestling team.

    Under Oklahoma law, sexual battery faces a penalty if convicted of between one to 15 years in prison.

    Ferrari’s attorney, Derek Chance, has claimed that his client is innocent and that he is confident that AJ Ferrari will be exonerated in due time.

    WWE NIL Signee Dismissed From College Wrestling Team
  • Paul Heyman Reveals Interesting Advice from Vince McMahon

    Paul Heyman Reveals Interesting Advice from Vince McMahon

    In the Attitude Era, Paul Heyman and Vince McMahon led different promotions, but the two weren’t entirely at odds.

    Heyman, aware that his ECW could never compete for dominance over the much bigger WWF, struck a deal with McMahon.

    This deal saw McMahon pay ECW $1,000 a week, as well as a $500,000 payment in mid-2000, while the WWF received the first chance on signing ECW talent, and had a much easier time purchasing ECW when the company eventually collapsed.

    The Advice

    Before ECW folded, Heyman jumped to the WWF and returned to the WWE in 2012.

    This return saw Heyman work closely with McMahon now in the same company, and the two workaholics worked well together until the latter’s retirement last month.

    In June 2019, Heyman was appointed an Executive Director of Raw, and during an appearance on The Mackmania podcast on The Ringer Wrestling Show, shared some advice he got by McMahon when receiving the role.

    “Make sure you pick your successor, in case you drop dead.”

    Paul Heyman reveals the advice given to him by Vince McMahon.

    According to Heyman, McMahon made it clear that even in the times of Vince’s passing, the show must go on without him.

    McMahon was under the impression that he would remain as WWE CEO and Chairman until his death.

    Heyman’s Future

    While many are optimistic for WWE’s future with McMahon now retired, Heyman isn’t celebrating.

    On the show, Heyman made it clear that he’s fully on board with the new vision for WWE, but it’s foolish to celebrate McMahon’s departure, as his work ethic made a lot of people a lot of money.

    Many believe that Heyman could be in line for a backstage role with creative, as he has good relationships with WWE Co-CEO Stephanie McMahon and Head of Creative/Talent Relations Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque.

    Triple H Explains Paul Heyman’s Role At WWE Tryouts
  • Dakota Kai Says her WWE Return Was a Last-Minute Call

    Dakota Kai Says her WWE Return Was a Last-Minute Call

    At Summerslam 2022, Dakota Kai returned to WWE, receiving her main-roster call-up in the process.

    Kai, alongside the returning Bayley and IYO SKY, appeared early in the show, after the Raw Women’s Championship match between Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch.

    Last-Minute

    Fans were shocked to see Kai appear at Summerslam, as she had been released by WWE in April this year.

    Speaking on the latest episode of WWE The Bump, the New Zealand-born Superstar revealed that there was never a long-term plan to bring her back.

    “You thought you’d seen the last of me, huh? It still feels like a whirlwind to me with everything that happened. It all happened so last minute too. To be talking with you guys right now is exciting. Everything that has happened since Saturday has been insane, it’s been crazy.”

    “It all happened so last minute.”

    Dakota Kai on her abrupt return to WWE.

    Kai added that she has been wanting to work with Bayley and IYO SKY for a very long time.

    Kai’s Release

    Kai was one of ten NXT Superstars released earlier this year, but her situation differed from others.

    While Superstars such as Harland were cut for not showing improvement, Kai had reportedly received several main-roster dark matches, but WWE had no plans to push her to Raw or SmackDown.

    Seeing herself in a rut, Kai reportedly told WWE that she did not plan on re-signing her contract when it expired in April 2023.

    Has Bayley Revealed The Name Of Her New Stable?
  • The Best Way to Get Front Row Seats for WretleMania Hollywood

    The Best Way to Get Front Row Seats for WretleMania Hollywood

    WWE brings WrestleMania to Hollywood in 2023. WrestleMania 39 is scheduled to take place Saturday April 1st and Sunday April 2nd from Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, CA. The venue holds an estimated 70,000 fans.

    WrestleMania Hollywood tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, August 12th.

    The day before (Thursday, August 11th), a WrestleMania ticket launch event will be held at Sofi Stadium. The free event will feature live in-ring matches, as well as celebrity appearances from Snoop Dogg, JoJo Siwa and Gabriel Iglesias. WWE superstars advertised to appear include Seth “Freakin” Rollins, The Miz, Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, The Usos, Theory and more.

    WrestleMania Hollywood Front Row Tickets

    SoFi Stadium
    SoFi Stadium

    If you want to score front row or ringside tickets for WrestleMania Hollywood, your best bet is WWE Priority Pass. WWE has partnered with On Location to offer premium all-inclusive ticket packages for WrestleMania.

    “A limited number of the top-tier packages remain available and are the only way to guarantee a front row seat today to WrestleMania.”

    – WWE Priority Pass

    “Also included is the most robust offering in history of WWE’s all-inclusive ticket packages, including a selection of private event transportation, an exclusive backstage experience, an evening event with a WWE Superstar and an excursion at Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Brewery or Mattel’s Design Studio where WWE’s Action Figures have been developed for over a decade.”

    There are five tiers of ticket packages available, all including lots of perks, starting at $675 per person.

  • Gunther Aims To Elevate WWE Intercontinental Title, Wants John Cena Match

    Gunther Aims To Elevate WWE Intercontinental Title, Wants John Cena Match

    Although Gunther initially didn’t want to move to the United States full-time when he signed with WWE for the NXT UK brand, he has found a lot of success on the WWE main roster. 

    Gunther is now on SmackDown as the Intercontinental Champion, and is looked at a future World Champion. Now that he’s on the main roster, it opens up a new page of dream matches for him that were previously considered impossible.

    While speaking with Sports Illustrated, Gunther discussed wanting to give the Intercontinental Championship it’s prestige back. He also expressed interest in wrestling John Cena.

    “I am going to give this title the prestige it needs and make it the greatest prize in wrestling. I would like to wrestle John Cena and anyone else who is considered elite. I didn’t come here to be mediocre. I came here to be in the ring with the best.”

    Gunther is currently in a storyline with Shinsuke Nakamura with many expecting a match to take place at last Saturday’s SummerSlam. That didn’t happen, but it’s possible the bout is saved for Clash at the Castle on September 3rd.

  • Liv Morgan Explains How John Cena Influenced Her Career

    Liv Morgan Explains How John Cena Influenced Her Career

    Liv Morgan was heavily influenced by John Cena in her professional wrestling career.

    Morgan was recently interviewed on Complex, where she explained how Cena helped influence her career inside the squared circle as a young fan.

    “I loved John Cena, I thought he was the s***. I had such a crush on him. He would pump his little sneakers, and I’d pump my sneakers, and I didn’t even have pumps. I would just press my little tongue [on her shoe].

    “Yeah, I thought he was amazing. And so, he, I think, has been, whether I know it or not, a subconscious influence on my career, you know, because he wore sneakers for the majority of his career, so I think maybe it’s something that kind of embedded in my mind, and maybe a reason why I like to wear sneakers.”

    Morgan is currently in the middle of her first-ever reign as a World Champion in WWE. She won the SmackDown Live Women’s Title at Money In The Bank against Ronda Rousey.

    Liv Morgan at Money In The Bank

    Earlier in the night, Morgan won the women’s Money In The Bank ladder match. She cashed in the briefcase later that same night after Rousey defeated Natalya to retain the SmackDown Women’s Title.

    Recently, at SummerSlam, Morgan successfully retained her title against Rousey in a rematch, in controversial fashion. As for Cena, he hasn’t been a full-time regular with WWE in several years.

    He will, however, return on occasion for a one-off match every so often. Recently, he returned to Monday Night RAW this past June to celebrate his 20th anniversary since making his main roster debut.

    During his promo, Cena promised he’d be back for another match, but he didn’t clarify when. Whenever that time comes, it’s certain to be a massive event.

    Quotes via 411Mania

  • Wrestling Couple Expecting Their First Child Together

    Wrestling Couple Expecting Their First Child Together

    One wrestling couple has just announced that they’re expecting their first child together.

    All Elite Wrestling star Shawn Spears and former WWE Superstar Cassie Lee (Peyton Royce) shared a video of social media sharing the news. Spears and Lee married back in 2019.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CgzZYpKF46R/

    Spears ran with WWE from 2013 to 2019, during which he spent four of those years with NXT before being called up to the main roster. Unfortunately, Spears never got a run as a champion during his time with WWE.

    However, he was one of SmackDown Live’s most promising young stars at the time. In February of 2019, Spears asked for his release from WWE, and it was later granted. A few months later, he made his AEW debut at Double Or Nothing.

    Shawn Spears
    Shawn Spears

    As for Lee, she had a six-year run with WWE as one-half of the tag team, The IIconics, alongside Billie Kay. The pair had runs on NXT and the WWE main roster, which included a reign as the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.

    However, Lee was released from WWE in April of 2021 along with several other talents, including Kay. She had a brief run with IMPACT Wrestling in 2021 before ultimately requesting her release this past April.

    Now, it appears she’ll take some time away from the ring as she and Spears start their family together.