SEScoops

Category: WWE

  • Details On Shane McMahon and Tony Khan’s Meeting Earlier This Week

    Details On Shane McMahon and Tony Khan’s Meeting Earlier This Week

    No, you didn’t misread that headline: Former WWE Executive and Superstar Shane McMahon, had a private meeting with All Elite Wrestling President Tony Khan. The meeting took place at a private airport in Arlington, Texas, according to WrestleTalk and Fightful:

    Shane McMahon in AEW

    This surreal development comes just over a month after rumors circulated that Shane McMahon was interested in joining AEW. Former WWE and current AEW commentator Jim Ross mentioned in mid-June that he had received information that McMahon had expressed some interest in collaborating with AEW.

    McMahon hasn’t been seen on WWE television since WrestleMania 39 when he made a surprise appearance for an impromptu match against The Miz. Unfortunately, the Shane-O-Mac would suffer a torn quad moments following the opening bell.

    In a recent interview with SI’s Justin Barrasso, Tony Khan spoke about the possibility of Shane McMahon joining AEW and expressed great respect for McMahon:

    “I heard the rumor he might be interested. I’ve never met Shane, but we have a lot of mutual friends…I have a lot of respect for him as an executive and a professional wrestler. Shane is always welcome in AEW.”

    Shane McMahon appearing for All Elite Wrestling would be as much of a “never say never” moment as there is in wrestling. One of the only comparisons is when the Prodigal Son appeared on the last episode of WCW Nitro in 2001. It would also be a direct shot across the bow, as his brother-in-law Triple H currently serves as Chief Content Officer of AEW’s biggest rival promotion, WWE.

    Will we see Shane McMahon attempt an on-screen hostile takeover of AEW? Will AEW fans get to see Shane McMahon and Darby Allin have a contest to see who can do the most death-defying dive? These might be premature questions now, but one’s that are not out of the realm of possibility after today’s developments.

  • Seth Rollins: ‘Betraying the Shield Changed Wrestling for the Better’

    Seth Rollins: ‘Betraying the Shield Changed Wrestling for the Better’

    Seth Rollins wouldn’t change a thing about betraying the Shield over a decade ago, as what he did on that June 2, 2014 RAW changed the face of wrestling. After the Shield defeated Evolution at the previous night’s Payback pay-per-view, Rollins betrayed his brothers with a steel chair and aligned with Triple H.

    Since then, all three Shield members have gone on to become huge names in wrestling as well as all holding World Championships. When asked on ESPN SportsCenter if he’s reflected on the paths his betrayal caused, Rollins admitted that he wouldn’t change a thing about what he did.

    “I’ve been asked about it a lot. Obviously, that’s the one thing if you’re a fan of Seth Rollins or the Shield or Jon Moxley or Roman Reigns, that’s the one thing that sits with you. Over the course of the last ten years, essentially. And I get asked about it all the time and I’ve thought about it. ‘Would you go back? Would you change it? Would you do something different?’ And my answer is unequivocally no, I wouldn’t.

    “Because where we’re at now, the business as a whole is healthier than its ever been and that moment of time shifted everything. That’s what put us all on our separate paths. Our goal in the beginning was to run the show. To run the business, to change it, to make it better. And here we are, a decade later, and I dare say that it was accomplished with the swing of that steel chair.”

    That steel chair shot certainly changed the landscape of WWE and Seth got a taste of his own medicine at WrestleMania 40 this past April when Roman Reigns delivered a chair shot of his own to the Architect. Ironically, this chair shot would cost the Tribal Chief, as picking Rollins over Cody Rhodes gave the latter the opening to hit three Cross Rhodes’ and end Reigns’ tenure as Undisputed WWE Champion.

    Reigns, Rollins, and Moxley may be on separate paths, but the Shield will live on as one of the greatest factions in WWE. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on Seth Rollins and his Shield brothers as they continue to dominate the wrestling business.

    For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.

  • Seth Rollins Doubles Down On His Outlandish Referee Outfit on RAW

    Seth Rollins Doubles Down On His Outlandish Referee Outfit on RAW

    Seth Rollins was par for the course when it comes to outlandish outfits but his referee shirt had a little extra flare to it. Unlike Jerry Seinfeld, Rollins really wanted to ‘be a pirate’ as his officiating garb was a puffy shirt with the standard WWE zebra stripes.

    Per usual, Rollins’ outfit of choice got wrestling fans talking online and Seth stated how he’s merely dipping his toe into the pizzazz pool.

    “This is just the appetizer, baby. You gotta tune into #SummerSlam on Saturday for the main course…we’re gonna be eatin’ goooood!”

    RELATED: Seth Rollins Will Enforce Any Rules He Wants for Punk-McIntyre at SummerSlam

    Rollins was a major player on the go-home episode of WWE RAW before SummerSlam as he was the main aspect to a near 20 minute segment on Monday. Rollins laid out the ground rules for CM Punk and Drew McIntyre for their grudge match this weekend as it will be Seth in the role as the special guest referee for the fight. Rollins has shown that he has no love loss for Punk or McIntyre.

    On the previous episode of RAW, GM Adam Pearce made it clear that McIntyre and CM Punk cannot lay a finger on one another before their big fight.

    Seth Rollins has equal incentive to cost Punk or McIntyre their victory against one another. Drew aimed to cash in his Money In The Bank briefcase during Rollins’ match against Damian Priest and it was Punk who ultimately cost Rollins a victory by stopping McInytre.

    RELATED: Seth Rollins Says Wife Becky Lynch Is Doing Great

  • The Miz Offers Big Praise To Pat McAfee For His WWE Work

    The Miz Offers Big Praise To Pat McAfee For His WWE Work

    The Miz has offered big praise to Pat McAfee for the way he’s been able to adapt to the WWE climate and excel at the art of storytelling.

    The A Lister recently appeared on The Rich Eisen Show to promote this Sunday’s SummerSlam event. The WWE star will be hosting the event that will be held in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio.

    During the interview, they talked about the former NFL star. The Miz mentioned how Pat brings a unique energy to the WWE programming with his work on the commentary desk:

    “He’s been amazing for us in WWE. He’s a ball of energy. You know? He usually flies in, because he does his show, and then he’ll fly right in, and he’ll do our show, and it’s very difficult to do. A lot of people are like, ‘Oh, color commentary, it’s not that hard,’ It’s very difficult. It’s a whole different mindset.”

    We Tell Stories: The Miz

    The Miz explained that wrestling is all about telling stories. According to him, the way Pat McAfee has been able to adapt to it and connect with the audience is unmatched:

    “The way he’s been able to come into WWE and really just take the bull by the horns and really go out there and do just a fantastic job of storytelling. That’s what we do. We tell stories, and the way he’s able to communicate that to our audience is unmatched. He’s been doing a great job at it.”

    McAfee joined WWE back in 2018 when he started appearing on pre-show panels for NXT: Takeover events.  He officially signed a contract with the company in 2019 and he has been a regular part of the WWE crew since then.

    The former football player has recently exchanged words with NXT personnel over the new WWE 2K24 DLC pack that features his talk show co-hosts alongside McAfee himself. It appears very likely that we’ll be seeing him getting a match on the development brand sooner or later.

  • WWE Teaming With Games Global For Trio Of Branded Slot Machines

    WWE Teaming With Games Global For Trio Of Branded Slot Machines

    WWE’s latest venture into the world of gaming will see the company produce three themed slot machines with supplier Games Global. Three slot machines will be produced over three years, a statement confirmed this week, with the first, WWE Bonus Rumble: Gold Blitz, being released this August. Andy Booth, Chief Product Officer at Games Global, shared his excitement over the partnership.

    “Games Global is thrilled to step into the wrestling ring with WWE and deliver powerhouse content that will appeal to our audiences around the world. Some of the most iconic WWE® superstars will bring our three titles to life and ensure players are immersed in the exciting world of sports entertainment.”

    Booth added that partnering with WWE is “monumental” for Games Global and that he is looking forward to the release of WWE Bonus Rumble: Gold Blitz.

    This isn’t WWE’s first foray into the world of slot machines. Developer All For One Studios has multiple slot machine games including WWE Legends: Link & Win as well as WWE: Clash of the Wilds. The question now is whether these new slot machines will receive much, if any promotion on WWE programming, as given the company’s PG rating, it could be considered as advertising of gambling to minor fans.

  • The Undertaker Reveals One Thing That Worries Him About Current Generation of Wrestlers

    The Undertaker Reveals One Thing That Worries Him About Current Generation of Wrestlers

    The Undertaker says the one thing that worries him about professional wrestlers today is the longevity of their careers because of all the crazy moves they do.

    The Phenom recently sat down with “Mighty” Demetrious Johnson for an interview. He talked about things such as his pairing with Paul Bearer, his WrestleMania 40 appearance and more.

    During the talk, Taker was asked for his thoughts on the current era of wrestling. The former World Champion first mentioned how WWE is breaking new records with each show so there is not a lot for him to complain. There is one thing, however, that the wrestling veteran is worried about:

    “There’s nothing that I can say that like, ‘They should probably be doing this,’ Because they’re killing it. They’re killing it. The only thing that worries me, because I know the physical shape and condition that I’m in, and the things that I’ve had to do since I’ve been in the business, is I worry about their longevity, because of how much they continue to push the envelope.”

    Get Them Invested In The Character: The Undertaker

    The Undertaker claimed that the lack of character development made a lot wrestlers turn towards high risk moves. Though he still believes that getting the audience invested in your story is the best way:

    “What ends up happening a lot of times. You mentioned it a little bit earlier, about like the character development. There was a time period there, where the character development was really lacking and the athleticism part was there. So they would, they started doing these crazy moves to [compensate].

    Then what they end up trying to do is like, okay, well, after two or three times of seeing a double backflip twist off the top rope to the floor, your audience gets desensitized to that, like ‘I’ve seen that. What do you got now?’ Now you have to push the envelope a little bit further, and there’s limitations to what the human body can do. But if you can get them invested in the character, you either gotta make them love you, or you gotta make them hate you.”

    The Risks of Wrestling

    The Dead Man closed his argument saying that a lot of people do not understand the risks involved in wrestling. That’s why he wishes that talent would focus more on character side of things:

    “That’s kind of the one thing that I wish, as a whole, that there would be more of, just because, you know what most people don’t realize about wrestling. What people really don’t realize is that within any given match, on any given night, you’re two inches away from something catastrophic happening. Regardless of how much training you’ve had.

    Then when you think about the number of dates per year that you’re working, that risk factor goes up exponentially. When you’re doing double back flips off of the top rope into a group of people, it only takes one time.”

  • Charlotte Flair Is ‘Adding Up The Inches’ In WWE In-Ring Recovery

    Charlotte Flair Is ‘Adding Up The Inches’ In WWE In-Ring Recovery

    WWE Superstar Charlotte Flair is back in the ring training for her return after being out of action with an injury since last December. On Instagram, Flair shared some footage of her in-ring training which included running the ropes and a series of rolls. In the caption, Flair channeled Tony D’Amato’s (Al Pacino) speech from 1999’s Any Given Sunday.

    We CLAW with our finger nails for that inch.
    Cause we know
    when we add up all those inches
    that’s going to make the f***ing difference
    between WINNING and LOSING
    between LIVING and DYING.

    I’ll tell you this
    in any fight
    it is the guy who is willing to die
    who is going to win that inch.
    And I know
    if I am going to have any life anymore
    it is because, I am still willing to fight, and die for that inch
    because that is what LIVING is.

    Flair has been out of action since December after suffering a leg injury during a match with Asuka, who is also currently out with an injury. Flair’s setback has forced her to miss several major WWE events, including WrestleMania, a show that she has competed in a title match for seven times in the past.

    While Flair has been missing from WWE programming, the Queen of All Eras has kept a close eye on programming. Flair recently said that she’s sure a match with NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez will happen when the time is right. Perez named Flair alongside several female Superstars on an episode of NXT before stating none of them compare to The Prodigy.

    Away from the ring, Flair has been filming scenes for an upcoming indie horror/thriller film titled You Lose You Die. Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest on Charlotte Flair and her return to the squared circle.

  • The Undertaker Looks Back On Pairing With Paul Bearer: It Was Meant To Be

    The Undertaker Looks Back On Pairing With Paul Bearer: It Was Meant To Be

    You cannot talk about the career of Undertaker without talking about Paul Bearer. The legendary manager not only provided a much-needed edge to the character on screen, but he also helped the former world champion in subtle ways that many may not have realized.

    The Dead Man recently joined “Mighty” Demetrious Johnson for an interview on his YouTube channel. He talked about things such as his WrestleMania 40 appearance, how he feels about today’s wrestling and more.

    When the topic of Paul Bearer was brought up, Taker explained how the pairing first came about. He recalled how Bruce Prichard was his original manager, but they had to find a new one because of Prichard’s other commitments:

    “So originally, I had my manager. They brought me in with Brother Love. So Brother Love, his name is Bruce Prichard. He was on the creative team. So he was trying to make the towns with me. Back then we travelled all the time. We’d be out 30-40, days in a row, and he just couldn’t cover both of them.

    So they had to find somebody else for me. So they find Paul Bearer, name’s William Moody and come to find out. This is just how everything works out the way it’s supposed to. He was a legitimate funeral director.”

    The Perfect Mix

    The Undertaker then discussed how Paul Bearer’s personality and his background as a funeral director was the perfect mix for his character:

    “He had a degree in mortuary science or whatever the degree is. So he’s a legit Undertaker. What was so good about it is like he had all this insight into, like language that I could use.

    Like If I talked about embalming somebody, I knew exactly what, a trocar or whatever, to use. So it was a really cool mix. He had a really high voice. I had a really low voice. It was just…it was meant to be.”

    Apart from being a funeral director, Paul Bearer was also a soldier once and he served in the US air force for 4 years. He made his first appearance for WWE in February 1991 and went on to become a legend in his decade long run with the company.

  • U.S. Army Reportedly Loses Big On $11 Million Investment In The Rock’s UFL

    U.S. Army Reportedly Loses Big On $11 Million Investment In The Rock’s UFL

    The United States Army reportedly spent a fortune on Dwayne Johnson’s UFL, but it didn’t work out well for the military branch. Military.com reports that the U.S. Army spent $11 million on the UFL with the hope of driving up enlistments. Despite this mammoth effort, the “high-dollar, high-profile deal likely didn’t lead to a single new Army recruit. In fact, the partnership was so poor that it “may possibly have had a negative impact on finding new enlistments” according to internal documents and emails.

    The deal between the UFL and the Army was supposed to feature Johnson as a “pseudo brand ambassador” with social media posts by WWE’s Final Boss valued at $1 million each. It’s reported that the Army expected five posts, but Johnson only made two posts. The deal also included UFC players wearing Army branding during games.

    In a statement, Laura DeFrancisco, a spokesperson for the Army’s marketing end said “We are in the process of working with the UFL to determine the final cost.” The Army is seeking to regain $6 million of its $11 million payment into the partnership.

    The UFL was launched in December 2023 following the merger of the XFL and the USFL. Johnson, alongside business partner Dany Garcia, purchased the XFL in 2020 after Vince McMahon’s attempt to revive the league was snuffed out by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    This failed partnership with the Army does not reflect well on Johnson, who has faced a series of business shortfalls in recent years, including Black Adam, a film he’d been closely tied to for years, bombing at the box office, and the cancellation of NBC’s Young Rock. It’s been reported that some in WWE believe Johnson’s return to WWE has been an effort to break a ‘losing streak’ by returning to an industry he knows he will be successful in.

  • Shawn Michaels Names One Reason Why His SummerSlam 95 Match Doesn’t Get Enough Credit

    Shawn Michaels Names One Reason Why His SummerSlam 95 Match Doesn’t Get Enough Credit

    Shawn Michaels’ ladder match with Scott Hall at WrestleMania X is one of the most iconic bouts in the history of wrestling. It was the first ever match of the stipulation to be featured on a WWE PPV, which would later become a staple of WWE programming.

    The two stars were tasked with recreating the magic at SummerSlam 1995. Even though both the wrestling stars delivered what was asked of them in a big way, HBK believes the match doesn’t get the credit it deserves because of one reason.

    Michaels was originally scheduled for a match against Sycho Sid at the Pittsburgh PPV. A late change was made when the feud failed to garner the interest of the audience. During a talk with Sports Illustrated, Shawn mentioned how it was a challenging task to build a face vs. face match in the limited time:

    “This one was very different, the whole story going into it was different and very challenging. I will say this–Scott and I did everything we could to make it epic. I think it was.”

    While the match ended up stealing the show, Shawn Michaels believes the bout doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, only because it was a rematch:

    “Sequels are always tough, but this is one I think that doesn’t quite get the recognition it deserves, there’s a simple reason for why: it’s number two. Number one is always first. That’s when the moment shifts. There’s only one first time. I’m still proud of it, but it’s not as special because it’s not the first.”

    Scott Hall had picked up the win in their WrestleMania encounter but the former DX member got his revenge in their SummerSlam rematch. This would end up being the final time the two legends faced each other in a singles match.

  • NFL Signing Reported to Participate At WWE SummerSlam 2024 Tryouts

    NFL Signing Reported to Participate At WWE SummerSlam 2024 Tryouts

    The stars will be coming out for WWE’s tryouts this week in Cleveland, Ohio as part of a stacked SummerSlam weekend in the city. Atrilleon “Trill” Williams, 24, who played football for the University of Syracuse, will be among the participants in this week’s WWE tryouts, PW Insider reports. Williams played in 28 games for Syracuse and had 93 tackles and four interceptions over three seasons.

    In 2020, Williams put his name forward for the NFL Draft and was signed by both the Miami Dolphins and The New Orleans Saints at different points. With that said, he never officially played for either team.

    Williams isn’t the only notable name expected to attend these tryouts as Elijah Holyfield will also reportedly be a part of the showcase. The 26-year-old has played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the practice squads of the Carolina Panthers and The Cincinnati Bengals. Elijah is the son of boxing icon Evander Holyfield, who appeared for WWE in 2007 in a boxing match with Matt Hardy. The elder Holyfield also attended a WWE SmackDown taping years later.

    For the first time ever, fans will be able to watch these tryouts in person as part of WWE’s ‘On Location’ experience. In the past, After these tryouts, WWE will host SummerSlam 2024 on August 3, from the Cleveland Browns Stadium. In 2021, tryouts held over SummerSlam weekend in Las Vegas resulted in Nikkita Lyons, Tatum Paxley, Edris Enofe, Javier Bernal, and Monday Night Raw’s Maxxine Dupri being signed.

    Will a future WWE World Champion take their first steps into the squared circle as part of the tryouts this weekend in Cleveland? Stay tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest from the SummerSlam tryouts and the Biggest Party of the Summer!

  • Rhea Ripley: Everything You Need To Know About The WWE Superstar

    Rhea Ripley: Everything You Need To Know About The WWE Superstar

    Rhea Ripley has rapidly ascended the ranks of professional wrestling to become one of WWE’s most beloved superstars in modern times.

    Known for her powerful in-ring presence and striking look, Ripley has captivated audiences worldwide, earning a litany of Championships across RAW, SmackDown, NXT and NXT.

    Here, we delve into the key phases of her career, personal life, and the milestones that have shaped her into the iconic Superstar that she is right now.

    Early Wrestling Career

    Rhea Ripley, born Demi Bennett on October 11, 1996, in Adelaide, South Australia, began her professional wrestling career on the independent circuit in 2013.

    Competing under her real name, she quickly made a name for herself in promotions like Riot City Wrestling and New Horizon Pro Wrestling.

    NXT UK

    In 2017, Ripley joined WWE and participated in the inaugural Mae Young Classic. Though she didn’t win, she would end up joining the original NXT UK roster.

    In August 2018, she made history by becoming the inaugural NXT UK Women’s Champion, defeating Toni Storm in the finals of a tournament to crown said Champion.

    Ripley held onto the title for 139 days, showcasing her dominance and paving the way for future successes in WWE.

    NXT

    After her tenure in NXT UK, Ripley moved to the NXT brand in 2019. She quickly established herself as a top contender and won the NXT Women’s Championship by defeating Shayna Baszler in December 2019.

    Ripley would then make history by defending the title at WrestleMania 36 against Charlotte Flair in the first time that a Royal Rumble winner (Flair) would challenge an NXT Champion with their guaranteed title shot at ‘Mania.

    Main Roster

    Ripley made her main roster debut on Raw in March 2021, challenging Asuka for the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 37.

    Throughout her main roster journey, Ripley has held the Raw Women’s Championship, WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship, and the SmackDown Women’s Championship, which was later renamed the Women’s World Championship.

    Personal Life

    Rhea Ripley Husband

    Rhea Ripley is married to fellow wrestler and AEW star Buddy Matthews, whose real name is Matthew Adams.

    The couple, both hailing from Australia, announced their engagement in August 2023 and tied the knot in June 2024.

    Rhea Ripley Wedding

    Ripley and Matthews’ wedding was a significant event, and the couple shared their big day on social media, with Ripley captioning a photo of their kiss with “Til death. ?23.06.24.”

    The wedding featured a gothic theme, with both dressed in black.

    Rhea Ripley Return

    Rhea Ripley made a surprise return to WWE Raw in July 2024 after a hiatus due to an injury.

    Her return was kept a secret, with WWE going to great lengths to maintain the element of surprise. Ripley was hidden from the roster and flown to the event on a WWE corporate jet.

    Rhea Ripley Injury History

    Throughout her career, Ripley has faced several injuries. Her most recent injury occurred in April 2024, leading to her vacating the Women’s World Championship and Liv Morgan then becoming the new Women’s World Champion.

  • WWE RAW Tickets: How To Buy (Guide)

    WWE RAW Tickets: How To Buy (Guide)

    WWE RAW is the flagship programme of the company, but how can you get tickets to watch a Monday night show live?

    With a litany of top Superstars appearing on the show weekly, including CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley, it’s always worth getting to see WWE live when you get the chance as it is a VASTLY different experience than watching from your couch.

    Here, we’re going to go through how you can purchase tickets to WWE RAW, whether you’re looking to get them for yourself or as a gift for the holidays or birthdays!

    Read More – WWE RAW Schedule: Dates, Venues and more

    Where to Buy WWE RAW Tickets

    Official Ticketmaster Website

    The most reliable and official source to purchase WWE RAW tickets is through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster provides an extensive range of ticket options, including standard tickets, VIP packages, and exclusive offers.

    To buy WWE RAW tickets from Ticketmaster:

    • Visit the WWE Ticketmaster Page: Go to Ticketmaster’s WWE page.
    • Select Your Event: Browse through the list of upcoming WWE RAW events and select the one you want to attend.
    • Choose Your Seats: There is an interactive seating chart where you can then pick your preferred seats dependent on how close you’re looking to get to the ring.
    • Purchase Tickets: Once you’ve picked you’ll then just have to follow the checkout process to get your tickets.

    How to Download the Ticketmaster App

    Downloading the Ticketmaster app for iOS and Android is a good way to keep on top of getting tickets from the site. If you’ve never done it before here is exactly what you need to do for each device:

    For iOS Devices

    • Open the App Store: Unlock your iPhone or iPad and open the App Store application.
    • Search for Ticketmaster: In the search bar, type “Ticketmaster” and press enter.
    • Download the App: Find the Ticketmaster app in the search results. Tap the download icon (a cloud with an arrow) to start downloading.
    • Install the App: Once the app is downloaded, it will automatically install on your device.

    For Android Devices

    • Open Google Play Store: Unlock your Android device and open the Google Play Store app.
    • Search for Ticketmaster: In the search bar, type “Ticketmaster” and press the search icon.
    • Download the App: Locate the Ticketmaster app in the search results. Tap on it and then select “Install.”
    • Install the App: The app will start downloading and automatically install on your device.

    Setting Up the App

    • Sign In or Create an Account: Open the app and sign in with your Ticketmaster account. If you don’t have an account, you can create one within the app.
    • Enable Notifications: Make sure that you allow notifications to stay updated on upcoming events, ticket sales, and other important information.
    • Explore Features: Browse events, manage your tickets, and access special offers through the app’s user-friendly interface.

    Secondary Marketplaces

    If tickets are sold out on Ticketmaster, you can always consider reputable secondary marketplaces like StubHub or Vivid Seats.

    With these sites offering secondhand tickets, there is a good chance that you could get a bargain for RAW to get a much better seat than you would on the likes of Ticketmaster, but it is always a risk waiting to grab something at the last minute.

  • WWE 2K25: News, Rumors, Potential Release Date, Roster Predictions and More

    WWE 2K25: News, Rumors, Potential Release Date, Roster Predictions and More

    WWE 2K25 is already generating buzz among wrestling and gaming fans following the immense success of WWE 2K24. Expectations are high for the next instalment in the franchise, with 2K Games hoping to take the hot streak of current WWE programming and translate that to gaming consoles and PC.

    Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest news, rumors, potential release date, and roster predictions for WWE 2K25 right now:

    News

    The development of WWE 2K25 is reportedly well underway. Following the positive reception of WWE 2K24, 2K Games and Visual Concepts are focused on continuing to improve the series. According to a report by WrestleTalk, WWE 2K25’s development has started with the aim of refining the gaming experience even further. The team behind the game is likely looking to build on the innovative changes introduced in WWE 2K22 and further enhanced in WWE 2K23 and WWE 2K24.

    Rumors

    There are several rumors surrounding WWE 2K25, and one of the most intriguing is the potential for new gameplay features and match types.

    Fans have been vocal about wanting more variety and realism in match stipulations, and hopefully the developers are listening.

    One rumor suggests that WWE 2K25 will have an even more extensive roster than its predecessor, possibly including several legends and new superstars who have made an impact over the past year. Names like Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa are all pretty much dead certs for the 2K25 roster, considering their massive impact since debuting in 2024 with The Bloodline.

    It’s worth noting of course that these rumors are just that, rumors, and won’t be confirmed until closer to the release of the game itself.

    Potential Release Date

    When can fans expect WWE 2K25 to hit the shelves? According to a report from EssentiallySports, Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of 2K Games, has confirmed that WWE 2K25 is scheduled for release in Fiscal 2025.

    This timeline suggests that the game will likely be released between March and April, 2025.

    Historically, WWE 2K games have been released in March, aligning with the hype of WrestleMania season, so we expect similar timeframe for WWE 2K25.

    Cover Star Predictions

    As you’ve probably guessed from the featured image of this article, we believe that Rhea Ripley will be the cover star for WWE 2K25, considering her massive popularity right now which is only likely to grow heading into 2025 and WrestleMania 41 season.

    WWE 2K25 Roster

    Predicting the roster for WWE 2K25 is always a fun exercise, especially with so many talented performers stepping up every year and the chance to bring back some legends.

    Legends

    Here are some of the legends that we predict will be getting a showing in WWE 2K25:

    • Afa
    • AJ Lee
    • Alundra Blayze
    • Batista
    • Bob Backlund
    • Bull Nakano
    • “Cowboy” Bob Orton
    • The Godfather
    • Haku
    • Mickie James
    • Pat Patterson
    • Rikishi
    • Sgt. Slaughter
    • Sika
    • Wendi Richter
  • Bill Goldberg Talks Vince McMahon, Bret Hart, Infamous Undertaker Match

    Bill Goldberg Talks Vince McMahon, Bret Hart, Infamous Undertaker Match

    Former WWE and WCW champion Bill Goldberg recently sat down with wrestling journalist Chris Van Vliet on Insight for a wide-ranging interview. The 57-year old legend discussed his relationship with former WWE boss Vince McMahon, his infamous match with The Undertaker and of course, Bret Hart.

    Here are some of the key takeaways of what Goldberg said about:

    Vince McMahon’s Broken Promise

    Goldberg maintains that Vince McMahon broke a promise for him to receive a proper retirement match:

    “If that match was still on the table, it would have been done, I would have thought. But hey, man, I was thinking about it this morning in the shower, right? And I thought, Man, I had one of the best wrestling careers ever and don’t think for one second that I don’t understand that and I don’t appreciate it. And so to sit here and cry over a person not keeping his word in a business, that’s as cutthroat as humanly possible and he gets cast out.”

    His Dud Match With The Undertaker

    Goldberg discussed his disappointing match with The Undertaker at WWE Super Showdown 2019, which he blames on giving himself a concussion before he even made it into the ring.

    “I knocked myself out before walking to the frickin ring. You know, when I came back, intensity is something very hard to replicate and I had forgotten my sequence to the ring. I had forgotten my preparation.”

    His Relationship With Bret Hart

    Goldberg and Bret Hart’s bitter feud is well-documented. Hart blames Goldberg for cutting his career short due to injures he sustained during their match at WCW Starrcade 1999. For all that’s been said about it, Goldberg admits mistakes were made.

    “It was a screw-up in the match and it’s live on national television. There’s two people that have to dance and you can only do so much and I mean, things went awry. It is what it is.”

    Goldberg says it’s time to move on and leave the bitterness behind them, especially since he claims Hart accepted a favor from him after he got injured.

    “I really don’t care anymore about Bret, I couldn’t care less. You know Louis, right? All I can tell you is this. Louis and I know and [Brian] Knobbs knows, through Legends of Wrestling that shortly thereafter all that sh*t that happened. I talked Louis into giving Bret Hart a job at Legends of Wrestling. He must forget about stuff like that.”

  • Giulia Confirms Date of Final Match in Japan Amid WWE Arrival Reports

    Giulia Confirms Date of Final Match in Japan Amid WWE Arrival Reports

    Giulia will compete for the final time in Japan within a matter of weeks amid reports that she will soon be appearing for WWE. Last weekend, Giulia shared that she had an important announcement to make which would be made in the historic Korakuen Hall.

    At a Dream Star Fighting Marigold show, Giulia teamed with Marigold World Champion Sareee to defeat Victoria Yuzuki and Kizuna Tanaka. After the match, Giulia shared that August 19, will mark her final match in Japan and vowed to challenge the world of professional wrestling.

    Giulia’s announcement comes amid several reports that the former NJPW Strong Women’s Champion is coming to WWE. In late 2023, it was reported that WWE and Giulia had been in talks and speculation grew after she appeared at NXT Stand & Deliver in April 2024. Giulia was seated alongside William Regal and Marigold founder Rossy Ogawa, and was later seen backstage with Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque.

    Giulia saying goodbye to Japan, where Marigold hosts its events, is something of a surprising move. Earlier this year, Rossy Ogawa shared that he hoped to work closely with WWE. It was later reported that the plan was for Giulia to work a handful of Marigold dates per year even after committing to WWE. With that said, Ogawa more recently said that Giulia’s time in Marigold was coming to an end, which certainly appears to be the case.

    WWE’s Female Signings

    Should she compete for WWE, Giulia will be part of something of a renaissance with the hiring of female talent. Stephanie Vaquer, who dethroned Giulia as NJPW Strong Women’s Champion, has signed with WWE mere days after appearing at AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door. It has also been reported that DELTA has signed with WWE. The Australian wrestler reportedly impressed during tryouts in Perth over Elimination Chamber weekend in February of this year.

  • Cleveland’s The Miz Hosting SummerSlam This Weekend

    Cleveland’s The Miz Hosting SummerSlam This Weekend

    The Miz has been revealed as the host of the WWE SummerSlam Premium Live Event which will take place in his hometown, Cleveland, Ohio. During the latest edition of Raw, ‘The A-Lister’ himself made the massive announcement. The Miz revealed that he will be hosting this year’s ‘Biggest Party of The Summer.’

    During the segment, his tag team partner R-Truth was also involved who cracked a few jokes. He mistook when The Miz said “his house” which he referred to Cleveland. The segment closed with the SummerSlam host promising both R-Truth and Cathy Kelley about bringing the hors d’oeuvres.

    This isn’t the first time that he is hosting a WWE PLE. In the past, he was the host of SummerSlam 2013. He also hosted last year’s WrestleMania 39 when WWE went to Hollywood.

    Last month, The Miz and R-Truth dropped the WWE World Tag Team Championships against The Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and JD McDonagh.

    Meanwhile, WWE SummerSlam: Cleveland is stacked with some huge matches. The show will feature the in-ring returns of Rhea Ripley and CM Punk. While ‘The Eradicator’ will have a shot to reclaim the Women’s World title against Liv Morgan. On the other hand, ‘The Second City Savior’ will finally face his arch-nemesis Drew McIntyre with Seth Rollins being Special Guest Referee.

    SummerSlam 2024 match card:

    • WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes defends against Solo Sikoa
    • WWE World Heavyweight Champion Damien Priest defends against Gunther
    • WWE Women’s Champion Bayley defends against Nia Jax
    • WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan defends against Rhea Ripley
    • WWE U.S. Champion Logan Paul defends against LA Knight
    • WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn defends against Bron Breakker
    • CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre with special guest referee Seth Rollins
    • Jelly Roll to perform
  • Finn Balor Shows Off Bruises After Facing Gunther On Raw

    Finn Balor Shows Off Bruises After Facing Gunther On Raw

    Finn Balor is bruised and battered after sharing the ring with Gunther in the headlining match on last night’s Raw. It is needless to mention that ‘The Ring General’ is one of the hardest hitters inside the squared circle. He once again had his thunderous chops on display against Balor.

    Following the match, WWE dropped a couple of photos of Finn Balor on social media. The photos revealed Balor’s bruised chest as a result of a series of chops from Gunther.

    The highly anticipated contest featured some spectacular spots. The final moments of the match saw Balor climbing up to the top rope and attempting the Coup De Grace. However, Gunther managed to dodge the move and countered with a Sleeper hold. Balor eventually passed out and the ref awarded the win to ‘The Ring General.’

    Following the match, Gunther tried to send a message to the World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest. He didn’t relinquish the hold on Balor even after the match ended. Priest rushed down to the ring to the aid of Balor. The show concluded with Priest and Gunther brawling outside the ring.

    Gunther is posing to be a massive challenge to Damian Priest. ‘The Ring General’ earned a World Heavyweight Title shot after winning this year’s King Of The Ring Tournament by defeating Randy Orton.

    On the other hand, Damian Priest has been a fighting champion and he has successfully defended his title against the likes of Seth Rollins, Jey Uso and Drew McIntyre. ‘The Archer of Infamy’ will now put his title on the line against Gunther at this Saturday’s SummerSlam PLE in Cleveland, Ohio.

  • WWE RAW Video Highlights: July 29th 2024

    WWE RAW Video Highlights: July 29th 2024

    There were a number of big moments during the go-home WWE RAW ahead of SummerSlam leading up to the ‘Biggest Party of the Summer.’ Seth Rollins “confirmed” the stipulations for the CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre match, the Wyatt Sicks unmasked and took out the Creed Brothers and

    WWE has now uploaded all of the video highlights for the show to their official YouTube channel, which we have compiled in an easy to view format on one page below.

    Read More – WWE Raw Results (7/29)

    WWE RAW Full Highlights This Week

    If you didn’t get the chance to watch the show in full, you can see a Full Recap of WWE RAW this week via the video below:

    WWE RAW Segments This Week

    Special Guest Referee Seth “Freakin” Rollins lays down the law with CM Punk and Drew McIntyre prior to their SummerSlam showdown.

    After The Creed Brothers defeat Otis and Akira Tozawa, Maxxine Dupri sends a painful post-match message to Chad Gable.

    The Wyatt Sicks interrupt Chad Gable, and a melee ensues.

    One week after her victory over Zoey Stark, an already injured Zelina Vega is attacked by Stark, Sonya Deville and Shayna Baszler.

    Pete Dunne cost his former Brawling Brute cohort Sheamus his match against “Big” Bronson Reed.

    After “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio told her off in humiliating fashion, Liv Morgan looks to make him and the rest of The Judgment Day suffer.

    Carlito fails to teach “Main Event” Jey Uso a lesson on behalf of The Judgment Day.

    Xavier Woods vs Karrion Kross

    Karrion Kross once again attempts to get Xavier Woods to join Final Testament during their one-on-one showdown.

    Sami Zayn’s match against “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio results in a brawl involving The Judgment Day, Bron Breakker and “Main Event” Jey Uso.

    Damage CTRL attack moments after Sonya Deville, Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark defeat Lyra Valkyria, Kayden Carter and Katana Chance in a Six-Woman Tag Team Match.

    WWE RAW Finn Balor vs GUNTHER

    A matchup pitting Finn Bálor against Gunther leads to a post-match ambush by World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest on The Ring General en route to SummerSlam.

  • Drew McIntyre-Jack Perry Photo Referenced On 7/29 WWE RAW

    Drew McIntyre-Jack Perry Photo Referenced On 7/29 WWE RAW

    Drew McIntyre’s photo with Jack Perry may have been deleted, but that didn’t stop the meeting of the ‘We Hate CM Punk’ club being referenced on RAW. The viral image was shared by McIntyre earlier this month and is of course in reference to Punk’s issues with Perry that resulted in Punk’s termination from AEW last year.

    While the image was not featured on this week’s Raw, Michael Cold did bring it up as he spoke during Drew McIntyre’s entrance.

    “Drew McIntyre was stirring up things this week… bringing up things from CM Punk’s past.”

    On Monday Night RAW, McIntyre met with CM Punk and Seth Rollins, as the former Universal Champion will officiate their upcoming match at SummerSlam. Rollins, fittingly decked in a black and white striped outfit, made clear that his rules will be in effect this Saturday in Cleveland, whatever they may be.

    McIntyre and Punk’s feud has been a hit with fans, and has kept Punk a mainstay of WWE programming in spite of his injury. McIntyre has continued to make reference to Punk’s family, including his dog Larry who now has WWE merch of his own. Not to be outdone, Punk has had some choices words for Drew, and has repeatedly cost him matches for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Will their issues be resolved at SummerSlam, and what role will Seth Rollins play in the finish? Keep tuned to SE Scoops for all the latest.

    CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre Timeline: Everything you need to know before WWE SummerSlam
  • Kofi Kingston Reflects On New Day’s Promo Battle With The Rock

    Kofi Kingston Reflects On New Day’s Promo Battle With The Rock

    Kofi Kingston was a big fan of The Rock growing up and so getting to have a promo battle with The Great One was like a dream come true for him.

    The New Day star recently had an interview with DraftKings. He discussed things such as his WWE title reign, his feud with Randy Orton and more.

    During the interview he was asked about the best insult he has received on the mic. Kingston recalled the time the trio went toe to toe with The Rock and said that it was a really cool moment for them:

    “We actually got to go toe to toe with the Rock. For me getting insulted by The Rock was really cool because in college before I went to bed every night, I would look at my Rock poster. I would jump and do a jumping elbow into my dormitory bed and pull my sheets up. That’s how I went to bed.

    We brought our A game he brought his A game and he’s insulting us. We had these unicorn horns on our heads and they light up. He said that they were llama penises. You get a Rock promo cut on you, as a kid who grew up watching the Rock cut these Rock promos on other people. I’m like ‘Wait now it’s happening to me. Ooh I should be mad but this is really cool.’”

    Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

    Kofi Kingston was also inquired about any notable backstage interaction with The People’s Champion. The former champion recalled the advice he received from the Rock that he understood later in his career:

    “We had done some media together. I remember like being backstage I just asked him. I said ‘Hey you have any advice or whatever’ and he’s like ‘yeah just don’t take yourself too seriously’ He said ‘Don’t worry about like oh you gotta go out there and look strong.’ At the time I had no idea what he was talking about.

    I think a lot of people want to be the big tough guy all the time to the point where you’re like ‘Oh well I can’t have someone say something about me and look stupid out there because oh I’m too tough’ versus ‘Hey let this person say something to me so that I can say something to them so that the crowd and the people can be entertained’

    We’re all trying to work together to tell a story. So I didn’t really understand that. Then you fast forward to the New Day and here we are again going out as grown men twerking and shaking our hips and gyrating and wearing these like crazy flamboyant colors.”

    Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods have recently been involved in a rivalry with Karrion Kross. They are currently not booked for the SummerSlam PPV.

  • WWE Shares ‘Banned’ CM Punk Tryout Match Against The Road Warriors

    WWE Shares ‘Banned’ CM Punk Tryout Match Against The Road Warriors

    Wrestling fans can see generations collide in a new video from WWE’s vault which sees CM Punk in a tag team match against the Road Warriors. In the latest video from the WWE Vault YouTube channel, Punk speaks of the match that saw himself and Doug Delicious face the legendary tag-team. This match was quite a surprise for Punk at the time, as after using a grapevine hammerlock DDT in a separate dark match, he was deemed unsafe in the ring and effectively ‘banned’ from being used again.

    Despite this ban, Punk was brought in alongside Delicious to face the Road Warriors as the originally planned opponents for Hawk and Animal were severely lacking in the skills department. It was Sgt. Slaughter who proposed the match to the ‘banned’ Punk. You can check out Punk’s comments and the match in the video below.

    This match would be Punk’s second in a WWE ring and holds the unfortunate distinction of being the final WWE match of Road Warrior Hawk. After competing in the Velocity dark match, Hawk died of a heart attack in October that year at the age of 46. He, alongside Animal and Paul Ellering, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2011.

    CM Punk may be one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, but as this match shows, even the top stars have to start somewhere. Punk will return to action this weekend at WWE SummerSlam where he will take on Drew McIntyre.

  • Jesse Ventura Says “Hell Froze Over”, Meets with CM Punk at WWE RAW

    Jesse Ventura Says “Hell Froze Over”, Meets with CM Punk at WWE RAW

    Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura has acknowledged that many will have been surprised by him attending WWE RAW, given his past issues with the company. The WWE Hall of Famer/former Governor of Minnesota was at the July 29, episode of the Red brand which took place in St. Paul, Minnesota. On Twitter, WWE cameras shared Ventura’s meeting with WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque.

    In a tweet of his own, Ventura compared his unlikely return to CM Punk’s Survivor Series 2023 comeback, saying hell has frozen over once more.

    The WWE Hall of Famer also shared a photo with CM Punk, adding that he returned to WWE for moments such as this one.

    Jesse Ventura’s WWE Past

    Though a wrestler and broadcaster in the WWF for years, Ventura’s return to WWE is something of a surprise. In 1991, Ventura brought litigation against the promotion after discovering that non-feature performers received royalties on videotape sales but he had not. Four years earlier, Ventura had waived his rights to royalties on videotape sales when he was falsely told that only feature performers received such royalties.

    The case entered federal court and Ventura won $801,333 when a jury ruled in his favor. The judge also awarded Ventura $8,625 in back pay for all non-video WWF merchandising featuring Ventura. The suit soured Ventura’s relationship with WWE, which had consistently been under strain due to Ventura’s previous attempts to form a union in wrestling.

    Despite this, Ventura was welcomed back for SummerSlam 1999 (after his Governor victory) and he officiated the Minnesota pay-per-view’s main event. Ventura also returned for an ‘Old School Raw’ in 2009 in which he once again donned the headset alongside Vince McMahon on commentary.

  • Watch: What Happened With Damian Priest After (7/29) Raw Went Off Air

    Watch: What Happened With Damian Priest After (7/29) Raw Went Off Air

    Judgment Day teammates Finn Balor and Damian Priest shared a moment after the SummerSlam go home episode of Raw from Xcel Energy Center in St Paul, Minnesota went off air.

    The main event of this week’s episode of the Red Branded Show saw Gunther taking on Finn Balor in a singles match before he challenges Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Title at the PLE this Sunday.

    The one half of the current World Tag Team Champion tried to do his best to take out the Ring General before the upcoming show but Gunther ended up winning the match with a sleeper hold in the end.

    When Gunther refused to let go even after the bell rang, Damian Priest ran down to make the save. The two brawled around the ring to end the broadcast.

    Priest got the upper hand with help from Balor after the show went off air. The two teammates then shared a hug before posing with their titles:

    What’s Next For Judgement Day

    Balor was not the only Judgement Day star in action tonight. Dominik Mysterio took on Sami Zayn and Carlito tried to take care of Jey Uso. Unfortunately, both of them lost their respective matches.

    The faction has been involved in a long-term storyline with the Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan. It’s very much possible that we may see the group imploding at the SummerSlam PPV.

    Liv originally tried to take Dominik away from Rhea Ripley when the Mami was out of action but her efforts failed when Ripley returned.

    She might still have a plan b however as fans have spotted clues of Morgan working together with Balor in some capacity. Their alliance might finally be revealed at the show this Sunday.

  • The Wyatt Sicks Unmask, Will Make In-Ring Debut On 8/5 WWE RAW

    The Wyatt Sicks Unmask, Will Make In-Ring Debut On 8/5 WWE RAW

    Fans will get to see The Wyatt Sicks in action next week as three members of the faction will be in six-man tag-team action. During this week’s RAW, The Wyatt Sicks once again came face-to-face with Gable and the Creeds. On the ring apron, three members unmasked to reveal they are Erick Rowan, Dexter Lumis, and Joe Gacy. When Gable tried to leave, he received a crossbody from Nikki Cross. When Gable left to go to the back, he was confronted by Uncle Howdy, who remained masked.

    It has been confirmed that the group will take on Chad Gable and the Creed Brothers during the August 5, episode of Monday Night RAW. This will mark the in-ring debut for the faction with these current characters.

    The Wyatt Sicks has been targeting Gable ever since making their much-anticipated debut on WWE Monday Night RAW back in June of this year. Gable was seen bleeding from the head when the faction arrived. While the cryptic, mysterious actions of the group so far have won over audiences, there have been questions as to how the faction will work when trading holds and strikes like everyone else on the roster. Fans will get the answer to those questions on next week’s Monday Night RAW.

    WWE RAW – August 5

    Next week’s show will also deal with the fallout from WWE SummerSlam 2024. That show will take place this Saturday, August 3, from the Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, Next week’s RAW will also see faction warfare as Damage CTRL’s Dakota Kai will take on the leader of RAW’s newest women’s faction Sonya Deville.