Ari Emanuel, the corporate powerhouse who serves as CEO and executive chairman of TKO Group Holdings, has reached billionaire status for the first time of his life. Emanuel was added to the Bloomberg Billionaire index for his personal wealth, signifying his vast fortune. In addition to his role with TKO, Emanuel serves as the CEO of Endeavor Group Holdings, who launched TKO (which consists of WWE and UFC) in September 2023.

TKO has nearly doubled in value over the past 12 months, with the share price increasing by 48% over the last year. The company is now valued at over $27 billion, and recently added Professional Bull Riders to its portfolio. While Emanuel isn’t an on-screen figure for WWE, he has been referenced on programming by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who serves as part of TKO’s Board of Directors.

While Emanuel’s fortunes continue to soar, many in TKO have been left feeling drained. This week, it was reported that there are several backstage issues, including an increased workload that can reach up to 60 hours a week. Reducing employee perks has also led to staff members increasingly feeling undervalued. WWE has ditched its previous policy allowing employees to purchase stock with a 15% reduction in price. Complimentary WWE tickets have also been nixed, in another blow to company morale.

With WWE’s female Superstars also having concerns, morale has taken a turn in WWE on the road to WrestleMania 41. Nevertheless, the success of TKO can’t be ignored, while Ari Emanuel will be more than pleased to have reached billionaire status.

WWE has been experiencing a period of record growth and posting unprecedented profits but the benefits of this boom do not seem to be far-reaching within the organization. A new report from Wrestlenomics has chronicled multiple issues that have led to a decline in employee morale behind the scenes since the WWE-UFC merger in September 2023.

A big reason for this merger was to consolidate services under the branding of Endeavor, which resulted in significant layoffs in multiple departments at the time.  Since then, the workload for the remaining employees has increased significantly with some people saying that they’re working 50 to 60 hours per week, particularly during the WrestleMania season. In addition to the responsibility in their WWE role, many have also been assigned additional UFC-related tasks.

The compensation for employees has not kept up with the increased workload, however, with multiple staff members saying that they’ve received a meagre 3% cost-of-living raise this year. Many with strong performance reviews, have been told they would not be receiving comparable raises due to budget constraints set by upper management.

The same constraints do not seem to apply to the top brass, however. In addition to bonuses received by top executives at the time of the merger, the nearly 50% increase in Endeavor Group Holdings shares since the time has helped people in administrative positions amass more wealth. The TKO Group Holdings CEO Ari Emanuel has reached billionaire status for the first time thanks to this significant increase in share values this month. This is in stark contrast to the cost-of-living raises given to employees which many argue hardly keeps pace with the rising living costs around the areas of WWE Headquarters in Connecticut and New York

• How Did The Rock’s Appearance Affect SmackDown TV Ratings

In addition to the limited increase in pay, reducing employee perks has also led to staff members increasingly feeling undervalued, while the management continues to emphasize the value of its workforce in town hall meetings. Some significant perks that have been discontinued include the removal of the peer-recognition initiative called ‘WWE Superstar’, as well as the elimination of complimentary live event tickets for employees.

This decline is in addition to frustration within the talent side, specifically among the female roster members. It’s been reported recently that female talents have been frustrated with their WrestleMania build and a recent WWE departure has left many feeling insecure about their position. You can check out more about it here.

• Carmella Breaks Silence After Unceremonious End To WWE Run

Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez are the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions after winning the gold in the main event of the February 24, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw. The finish of the match saw Raquel prevent Naomi from hitting the split legged moonsault and then ram Naomi head into the post. With Naomi out cold, Morgan got the pinfall to end the reign of the Glow and Bianca Belair.

Belair and Naomi had been recognized as tag team champions since November 2024. Belair had held the gold since August’s Bash In Berlin PLE, where she won the gold since Jade Cargill. After Cargill was taken out by a mystery assailant, Naomi replaced her in the tag team.

This loss raises questions as to how Cargill will respond once she’s back, as she has lost a title in WWE without even being a part of the match. Many fans predict that either Belair or Naomi were behind the attack, an act that would turn either woman heel. Both have accused Liv and Raquel of being the attackers, though they have denied the claim.

This victory makes Liv Morgan a record-tying four-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, while Raquel Rodriguez is now a three-time champion. As a team, this is the third reign for the Judgment Day members.

The Rock returned to WWE last week to cut an awkward promo on Cody Rhodes and help kick the SmackDown ratings into the WrestleMania gear.

The months after Royal Rumble is usually the period that sees an increased interest in WWE programming as the company builds storylines for the Show of Shows. This hadn’t been the case for SmackDown whose ratings had more or less been steady in the past few weeks but it changed with the February 21 show.

Despite The Rock’s WWE return coming together very quickly, the Great One’s comeback generated enough buzz for The Blue Branded show to garner 1,736,000 viewers overnight per Programming Insider.

• The Rock Reveals Wrestling Moment That Broke His Spirits

This is a huge increase for the show from last week’s 1,384,000 overnight viewers, which featured multiple qualifying matches for the Elimination Chamber and an appearance from Cody Rhodes.

The show also saw an increase in the key 18-49 demo which rose up to 0.51. This is a significant increase from last week’s 0.42 rating.

The Rock is not advertised for this week’s episode of SmackDown but the company will continue to unravel the meaning of his promo on the show.

The People’s Champion will return to WWE programming the night after. The Hollywood star has been announced for the Elimination Chamber PPV on March 1, where he will expect an answer from The American Nightmare on his proposal.

• Sami Zayn Reveals How He Felt Taking The Package Piledriver After So Long

Carmella has broken her silence for the first time since the unceremonious end of her 12-year run with WWE earlier this month.

The former Women’s Champion posted a short video on Instagram thanking fans who have reached out and shown their appreciation since the news broke. She also mentioned how there’s a lot of uncertainty around her future. The female star noted that she has ‘a lot’ to say and promised to jump on a podcast this week to address her WWE departure in more detail:

“Hi guys. I am aware I’ve been MIA for the last week. If you can’t tell I’m so sick. I’ve been sick for over a week now. There’s also obviously been a lot happening. Some news broke last week and I just wanted to let you know that I’ve seen all of your texts and tweets and messages and DMs and like oh my god, you guys are just the best.

I’m so grateful for you and everything that you’ve been saying about Carmella and my career and I’m so blessed. So thank you. I know there’s a lot of questions and uncertainty around everything. I will be going on a podcast later this week, answering some of those questions and telling my side because I have a lot to say about the situation. So yes, stay tuned, I’ll give you the details later when I can and I can’t wait to fill you guys in.”

• Female Talents Feel Insecure About WWE Spot After Sonya Deville’s Abrupt Departure

The news of Carmella’s WWE deal expiring first broke out earlier last week. The company then moved her to the alumni section of their website. The former champion herself also changed her name on various social platforms to essentially confirm that the two parties were no longer working together.

The Staten Island Princess had not been active in the ring since March 2023, when she took maternity leave from the company. She gave birth to a son in November 2023, but health complications arising from childbirth have prevented the wrestling veteran from making an in ring return.

• The Rock Reveals Wrestling Moment That Broke His Spirits

WWE Superstar Sami Zayn recently shared his thoughts on why the company avoids political themes in its storytelling, contrasting the current approach with past eras when real-world conflicts often influenced wrestling narratives.

During a media call on Monday to promote this weekend’s WWE Elimination Chamber event from Toronto, Zayn talks about professional wrestling’s history of reflected societal issues, citing past examples such as Sergeant Slaughter’s controversial Iraq storyline in the early ’90s and the presence of stereotypical foreign villains in the mid-20th century. However, he pointed out that today’s WWE takes a different stance, deliberately steering clear of political content. In response to a question from Jan Murphy of the Toronto Sun, Zayn said:

“Wrestling is sort of a reflective art form. It mirrors societies and the times,” Zayn explained. “Now, I think in a strange way, we’re doing a sort of weird anti-reflection reflection wherein we just simply don’t touch politics. As a company, nothing about the political climate is reflected in the product anymore.”

Zayn attributed this shift to the heightened sensitivity surrounding political issues, as well as WWE’s role as a form of escapism. He suggested that, in an era where real-world challenges like economic concerns impact daily life, wrestling provides a space where fans can disconnect from those stresses.

“WWE is meant to be like an escape from all that stuff—especially when people feel it in their day-to-day lives,” he added.

The approach marks a departure from previous decades, when wrestling often incorporated contemporary political tensions into its storytelling. While some fans appreciate the shift toward pure entertainment, others debate whether avoiding political narratives entirely limits creative possibilities.

Escapism vs. Realism in Wrestling

WWE’s current stance reflects a broader trend in entertainment, where some franchises choose to keep politics out of their content to maintain universal appeal. With a diverse fanbase spanning multiple demographics and political beliefs, WWE’s decision to remain neutral allows it to cater to as wide an audience as possible.

At the same time, some wrestling promotions continue to embrace real-world issues in their storylines, showing that there remains an appetite for blending reality with fiction. For now, the company appears committed to maintaining a space where fans can simply enjoy the spectacle without outside distractions, brother.

Former Major League Wrestling (MLW) World Heavyweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone has been medically cleared to return to the ring.

Hammerstone suffered a knee injury at TNA Turning Point in November, which required surgery. Now, in an update on his official X account, he has revealed that his rehabilitation is complete and he has received medical clearance to return to action. In his post, Hammerstone reflected on his experience before announcing that he is now accepting bookings.

The 34-year-old Hammerstone has been part of the professional wrestling industry since 2013, competing for promotions such as MLW, Pro Wrestling NOAH, and TNA. During his tenure, he held the MLW World Heavyweight Championship and won the promotion’s National Openweight Championship Tournament in 2019.

Hammerstone officially signed with TNA in February of last year. In September, as part of WWE and TNA’s talent exchange agreement, he made his NXT debut as Tony D’Angelo’s hand-picked opponent for North American Champion Oba Femi. Hammerstone ultimately lost the non-title match.

Now medically cleared, Hammerstone can resume his in-ring career and look to regain momentum under the TNA banner.

Sami Zayn is keeping quiet about the status of his current contract with WWE. During a media call to promote this weekend’s WWE Elimination Chamber PLE, Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful asked how much time remains on his contract.

“I’m usually kind of private about that stuff, to be honest with you,” Zayn said. “But, I don’t think I’m going anywhere. I think I’ve got kind of a good thing going here, and I see it continuing for the foreseeable future.”

Zayn, 40, has been with WWE since 2013. During his tenure, he has won the Intercontinental Championship four times and held both the RAW and SmackDown Tag Team Championships. Before joining WWE, he competed in promotions such as Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, Chikara, Ring of Honor, Dragon Gate, and more.

The former NXT Champion has become a fan favorite on Monday Night RAW, especially after his rise in popularity due to his involvement in The Bloodline storyline alongside Roman Reigns and The Usos.

Currently, Zayn is on the road to WrestleMania, having recently reignited his feud with longtime friend Kevin Owens. The two are set to collide in an unsanctioned match at Elimination Chamber this Saturday.

All Elite Wrestling star Hook has signed with sports agent Barry Bloom ahead of upcoming contract negotiations. According to PWInsider, Bloom actually signed Hook several months ago, but the news is only now coming to light. AEW is expected to make efforts to ensure the second-generation talent remains with the company.

Bloom represents several notable wrestling personalities, including Kenny Omega, Josh Alexander, and announcer Jim Ross.

Hook made his AEW debut in 2020 as part of Team Taz, aligning with his father, Taz, as well as Brian Cage, Ricky Starks, and Powerhouse Hobbs. He transitioned to singles competition in 2021 and, in July 2022, defeated Ricky Starks to win the FTW Championship—a title originally established by his father in ECW.

He held the championship for an extended period and feuded with Jack Perry over the FTW Title in the summer of 2023. He later regained the title in August 2023 before retiring it and presenting it to his father, Taz, in September 2023.

Currently, Hook is aligned with Samoa Joe and Katsuyori Shibata. As of this writing, he’s not scheduled to compete at AEW Revolution on March 9th. 

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s production company, Seven Bucks Productions, has signed a first-look television deal with 20th Television, a division of Disney TV Studios. The agreement, as first reported by Deadline, will allow Seven Bucks to develop and executive produce comedy, drama, adult animation, limited series, and unscripted content for both streaming platforms and traditional networks.

The deal further strengthens Seven Bucks’ relationship with Disney, following a first-look agreement signed in June 2024 for film development across theatrical and streaming releases.

In a joint statement, Johnson and Seven Bucks co-founder Dany Garcia expressed their excitement about expanding their collaboration with Disney:

“Disney has been our trusted partner in storytelling and entertainment for years now, and we’re ecstatic to expand our partnership with them beyond film as we set out to work hard and achieve the same success in the television space.”

They also praised 20th Television’s leadership, calling the deal an “unlimited opportunity for creative storytelling.”

Busy Week for The Rock

This announcement adds to an eventful week for Johnson. He was recently confirmed to star alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Emily Blunt in an upcoming crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese. Additionally, he made his highly anticipated return to WWE on SmackDown (Feb. 21), where he confronted Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes in a heated segment.

While his long-term WWE plans remain unclear, The Rock is set to appear at Elimination Chamber in Toronto on March 1, where he expects Rhodes’ response to his challenge.

SmackDown star LA Knight has been seen in Cincinnati, Ohio, ahead of tonight’s episode of WWE Raw on Netflix (February 24).

The final Raw before WWE’s Elimination Chamber event will take place at the Heritage Bank Center. According to PWInsiderElite, the former United States Champion is in town.

Confirmed for tonight’s show are appearances from three competitors in Saturday’s Men’s Elimination Chamber match—Logan Paul, Seth Rollins, and CM Punk.

Additionally, two championship bouts are set: Lyra Valkyria will defend the Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Dakota Kai, while Women’s Tag Team Champions Bianca Belair and Naomi put their titles on the line against Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.

Nearly fifteen years after his passing, ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage remains a pop culture phenomenon, with Heritage Auctions’ recent ring-worn collection sale and his Super Bowl commercial appearance both testifying to the wrestler’s timeless appeal.”

An exclusive Heritage Auctions sale of ring-worn memorabilia from WWE Hall of Famer “Macho Man” Randy Savage concluded on February 23, 2025, featuring iconic outfits spanning his legendary wrestling career from the late 1980s through 2000.

Auction Highlights

• Total Items Sold: 16 ring-worn outfits and memorabilia pieces
• Total Revenue: $197,531.00
• Highest Sale: $45,140.00 for a 1990’s Macho Man Randy Savage worn jacket and outfit with glasses
• Average Sale Price: $12,345.69

Notable Items

1. 1990’s Era Jacket & Outfit with Glasses – $45,140.00
2. 1992 Twice-Signed Outfit – $12,810.00
3. 1991 Ring Worn & Signed Outfit (Used in Royal Rumble) – $19,520.00
4. 1990 Ring Worn & Twice Signed Outfit (Checkered) – $26,840.00
5. 1999 Ring Worn Outfit – $8,235.00

Collection Details

The collection featured memorable pieces from different eras of Savage’s career, including Halloween Havoc outfits, World Championship wrestling gear, and NWO-era items. Each piece was authenticated by Heritage Auctions (Auction 50075) with specific lot numbers.

Most items were not only ring-worn but also signed by Randy Savage himself, with several pieces bearing double signatures, significantly increasing their collector value.

The auction demonstrates the enduring popularity of the Macho Man’s flamboyant wrestling persona nearly 15 years after his passing, with collectors willing to pay premium prices for authentic pieces of wrestling history.

WWE 2K25’s Showcase Mode will highlight The Bloodline and the legendary Anoa’i family, one of wrestling’s most iconic dynasties. Now, the full list of Bloodline members featured in the game has been revealed.

With a roster of over 300 playable characters, WWE 2K25 will be the largest WWE game ever.

All Bloodline Members in WWE 2K25

• Headshrinker Fatu (NEW)
• Headshrinker Samu (NEW)
• Haku
• Islander Tama (NEW)
• Jacob Fatu (NEW)
• Jey Uso
• Jimmy Uso
• Naomi
• Nia Jax
• “High Chief” Peter Maivia (NEW)
• Rikishi
• Rosey (NEW)
• Roman Reigns
• Solo Sikoa
• Sami Zayn
• Tama Tonga (NEW)
• Tamina
• The Rock
• Tonga Loa (NEW)
• Umaga
• Afa (NEW)
• Sika (NEW)
• Yokozuna

WWE 2K25 Release Details

WWE 2K24 will be available in three editions: the Standard Edition releasing on March 14, 2025 with a pre-order bonus of the Wyatt Sicks Pack and digital game, and the Deadman and Bloodline Editions, both offering early access on March 7, 2025 with pre-order, including the digital game, Wyatt Sicks Pack, and additional extras, with the Bloodline Edition containing even more exclusive content.

Mike Santana has his eyes on a dream opponent, and he knows exactly where he wants the match to take place—inside a TNA ring.

Speaking with MuscleManMalcolm on Muscle Memory, the reigning House of Glory Heavyweight Champion made it clear that if he could face one wrestler from WWE or NXT, it would be none other than AJ Styles.

“TNA was the place that put me on the map… AJ Styles is the face of TNA, the number one homegrown talent, and I consider myself one, too,” Santana said. “To go head-to-head with him and elevate myself would be amazing.”

While the idea of a match between the two may have seemed impossible in the past, the recent working relationship between TNA and WWE makes it more realistic than ever. With Styles being the wrestler who is most identified with TNA Wrestling, it seems all but certain that the “Phenomenal One” will return home for at least a few matches while he’s still active.

Santana has been on a tear recently, defeating KENTA in a grueling match to retain the HOG Heavyweight Championship. He also recently took down former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander, further proving that he belongs among the best.

Having already checked off one dream opponent in KENTA, Santana believes a match with Styles would be the ultimate test. And while the bout could theoretically happen in WWE, he insists it belongs in TNA.

“I want it in a TNA ring,” Santana emphasized.

With both men sharing a connection to the promotion that helped define them, a Santana vs. Styles clash could be a show-stealer if the stars align. Now, the ball is in TNA and WWE’s court—will they make it happen?

John Cena’s portrayal of Peacemaker has been a fan favorite since his debut in The Suicide Squad (2021), leading to the spinoff series Peacemaker on the Max streaming service.

HBO has confirmed that Season 2 of Peacemaker will premiere in 2025, with Cena reprising his role. According to Deadline, DC Studios co-chiefs James Gunn and Peter Safran have stated that the second season remains on track for an August release.

The series also stars Steve Agee, Jennifer Holland, Freddie Stroma, Danielle Brooks, Robert Patrick, and Chukwudi Iwuji. Peacemaker is a superhero who values peace so much that he is willing to kill—even innocents—to achieve it.

Before Peacemaker Season 2, DC plans to release Waller. Filming for the second season wrapped in November 2024. Gunn wrote all eight episodes of the first season and directed five, including the premiere. The Peacemaker finale, which aired on February 17, 2022, set a single-day viewership record for the then-newly rebranded Max streaming service.

Although Cena is set to retire from WWE at the end of this year, he continues to be active in Hollywood, which has affected his WWE availability. He took time off between his appearance on Raw on Netflix and the Royal Rumble. Since Royal Rumble, he has not been seen on WWE television, but he is set to wrestle at Saturday’s Elimination Chamber premium live event. If he wins the men’s gimmick match, he will challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42.

The Undertaker is one of the most legendary figures in wrestling history, but even he struggled with retirement. On Six Feet Under, he opened up about the difficult transition out of the ring.

“I didn’t know that I wanted to coach. I didn’t know what to do. This is all I’d known for 30 years,” he admitted.

For decades, The Undertaker was the locker room leader in WWE. He traveled nonstop, performed at the highest level, and helped shape the business. But when the time came to step away, he felt lost.

“You can still love the business, but it doesn’t love you back the same way after you’re done,” he said.

DDP, who also struggled with life after wrestling, could relate. “That’s why I threw everything into DDP Yoga. I had to find something that gave me purpose again,” he said.

Undertaker admitted that watching DDP’s second act was inspiring.

“Honestly, as great as your wrestling career was, I think what you’re doing now might be your greatest legacy,” he told DDP. “Helping people walk again, giving them hope—man, that’s bigger than selling out arenas.”

Now, Undertaker has found his own path, but he acknowledges how tough retirement can be.

“It’s hard to walk away from something that’s been your life for so long. And no one really prepares you for that part.”

Life After Wrestling

Since retiring from in-ring competition in 2020, The Undertaker has remained actively involved in WWE through various roles. You may have heard, he hosts the popular “Six Feet Under” wrestling podcast.

He also continues to tour with his successful “1 deadMAN SHOW” stage show, featuring him sharing never-before-heard stories from his Hall of Fame career and taking questions from fans in an intimate setting. The show has consistently sold out venues across major cities across the US and UK.

He currently serves as a coach on A&E’s reality series “WWE LFG (Legends and Future Greats)” alongside fellow wrestling icons Mickie James, Booker T, and Bubba Ray Dudley. On the show, which premiered in February 2025, Taker mentors the aspiring wrestlers who are competing for potential WWE contracts.

Through these endeavors, The Undertaker continues to shape the future of professional wrestling, passing on his unique perspective and expertise to the next generation of WWE talent.

DDP’s WWE debut was one of the most controversial in wrestling history. Instead of being presented as a top WCW star, he was booked as The Undertaker’s wife’s stalker. Looking back, DDP regrets not fighting it.

“If I had been in WCW, I would have fought it. But I wanted to be a team player in WWE, so I went with it,” he admitted on Six Feet Under.

DDP explained that he had pitched an entirely different idea—The People’s Champion vs. The People’s Champion—where he would challenge The Rock.

“I had this whole vision: lights go out, everyone thinks it’s Jericho, and then boom—‘Who’s the real People’s Champion?’ But I let them talk me out of it,” he said.

Instead, he found himself stuck in a storyline that didn’t make sense.

“I should have said, ‘Are you looking at my wife? She’s one of the most beautiful women in the world. You think I’d stalk Undertaker’s wife?’”

The angle flopped, and DDP’s WWE career never recovered. But he took an important lesson from it.

“That was the first time I let someone talk me out of my gut instinct, and I learned a big lesson from it.”

When WCW was bought by WWE in 2001, many wrestlers chose to sit out the remainder of their lucrative contracts. But not Diamond Dallas Page. On Six Feet Under, DDP revealed he left $487,000 on the table to jump to WWE early—against the advice of Dusty Rhodes.

“Dusty told me, ‘Don’t do it. Take the money.’ But I was 45, my body was breaking down, and I didn’t have time to sit around,” DDP said.

At the time, top WCW stars like Kevin Nash and Goldberg had contracts that allowed them to be paid in full while staying home. WWE offered them a fraction of that to start working immediately, and most declined.

“I could have sat at home, done nothing, and still made nearly half a million dollars,” he admitted. “But I wasn’t 35 anymore. I wasn’t even 40. If I sat out for another year, my window might’ve closed.”

DDP explained that while money was important, he had a deep love for wrestling that made the decision easy.

“Kevin Nash is one of the smartest businessmen in wrestling history. He told me, ‘Dude, take the money.’ And if I listened to him, I probably would’ve had a couple million more in my account today. But I had to bet on myself.”

Unfortunately, DDP’s WWE run didn’t go as planned. Despite how things unfolded, the master of the Diamond Cutter wouldn’t change a thing.

“Looking back, would I make the same choice? Hell yeah. Because if I didn’t, I wouldn’t have learned the lessons that made me who I am today.”

Before Scott Hall became the legendary Razor Ramon, he was struggling to find his place in the wrestling world. But thanks to Diamond Dallas Page, his entire look and career trajectory changed forever.

On Six Feet Under with The Undertaker, DDP shared the untold story of how he helped Hall completely reinvent himself.

“Scott said, ‘I’ve had this mustache since I was 15!’ And I said, ‘Another reason to shave it!’” DDP recalled with a laugh.

Hall had returned from a run in Germany, unsure of his next move. DDP saw potential in him but knew he needed a new look. That’s when inspiration struck.

“I was watching MTV and George Michael came on. He had this patent leather outfit, that brush-cut beard, that five o’clock shadow. I thought, ‘That’s a smaller version of Scott Hall!’”

DDP immediately called Hall at 2 a.m. to pitch the idea.

“I said, ‘Dude, walk outside right now. I got an idea. You gotta shave the mustache.’ He goes, ‘What?!’ I said, ‘You have to shave it and grow out a five o’clock shadow. Trust me, this is gonna work.’”

Reluctantly, Hall agreed. But it wasn’t just the facial hair—DDP had a full makeover planned.

“I dyed his hair jet black, gave him a full-length lambskin coat, baggy pants, tank top, sunglasses—told him not to take them off. When we walked into WCW, nobody recognized him.”

The final piece of the puzzle? The infamous toothpick.

“We were at Waffle House, and I grabbed a toothpick. I said, ‘At the end of every promo, we both flick these into the camera.’ Right in the middle of talking, mine falls out of my mouth. I was pissed, but Scott? He nailed it. And that became his thing.”

Hall later took that entire persona to WWE, where it evolved into Razor Ramon. Looking back, DDP takes pride in seeing how one simple idea changed a career.

“Scott didn’t drink back then, but he sure as hell loved to roll a joint and quote Scarface. That was just him naturally. He was already Razor before WWE even knew it.”

A wedding reception recently took an electrifying turn when newlyweds made their grand entrance to WWE Superstar Jey Uso’s “Main Event Ish” theme song. As the iconic “YEET” catchphrase played, guests raised their phone lights in the darkened reception hall, just like a WWE crowd.

The wedding party preceded the couple in pairs, building anticipation. When the DJ finally announced the newlyweds, the room erupted with guests performing Jey Uso’s signature “”YEET handwave” gesture.

TikTok user @playwithjambo shared the video with the caption,

“my cousin and his wife walked into their wedding reception to jey uso’s intro and the entire reception yeeted for them ?”

Guests enthusiastically participated in “YEET” chants as the couple made their way through a sea of phone lights, creating an unforgettable moment.

If you can find a partner that supports your love of professional wrestling, you’re in good shape. If they’ll agree to something like this, you’ve hit the jackpot!

Elektra Lopez, recently released from WWE in February 2025, may soon find a new home in TNA Wrestling. The former NXT competitor was spotted backstage at TNA’s iMPACT tapings on February 21 at Full Sail University, fueling speculation about her next move.

According to Sportskeeda’s Backstage Pass reporter Chris Featherstone, TNA Wrestling is in active discussions with Lopez, with sources indicating a “very high interest” in signing her once her 90-day non-compete clause expires.

While other promotions have reportedly shown interest in acquiring Lopez, she appears to be leaning toward TNA. Given the strengthening partnership between WWE NXT and TNA, a move to the promotion could be a natural transition.

Lopez’s WWE Journey and Potential Future in TNA

Lopez first appeared in WWE in 2018, returned in 2019, and officially signed with the company in 2021, becoming a key figure in NXT. With her WWE chapter recently closing, TNA could offer a fresh opportunity for her wrestling career.

If finalized, Lopez’s signing would further bolster TNA’s growing roster while continuing the talent exchanges between WWE NXT and TNA Wrestling.

Tonight, February 24, 2025, WWE Raw is set to deliver an exciting show live from the Heritage Bank Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, airing at 8 PM ET on Netflix. With the Elimination Chamber event looming, here’s what’s on tap based on the latest announcements and developments:

Matches

• WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match: Bianca Belair and Naomi will defend their titles against Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. This match stems from a heated rivalry, sparked by video evidence linking Morgan and Rodriguez to an attack on Jade Cargill. The personal stakes are high, and a title change could shake up the women’s division heading into WrestleMania season.
• WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Match: Lyra Valkyria puts her newly won title on the line against Dakota Kai, who earned her shot by defeating Ivy Nile last week. Valkyria beat Kai in the tournament final to claim the inaugural championship, so this rematch promises to be a fierce battle as Kai looks to reclaim her momentum.
• Triple Threat Match: Penta vs. Ludwig Kaiser vs. Pete Dunne: After a chaotic brawl last week, these three hard-hitting competitors will collide in a triple threat match. It’s a chance for each to prove their dominance, with no alliances likely to hold in this unpredictable showdown.
• The New Day vs. LWO: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods of The New Day take on Cruz Del Toro and Joaquin Wilde of LWO. This feud intensified after The New Day’s brutal attack on Rey Mysterio, prompting LWO to seek retribution. Expect a fast-paced, emotionally charged tag team clash.

Segments

• CM Punk, Seth “Freakin” Rollins, and Logan Paul Appear: Just days before they step into the Elimination Chamber, these three larger-than-life personalities are slated to be in the building. Expect some intense verbal sparring and maybe even a physical preview of what’s to come, given their history of backing up their egos in the ring.
• Rhea Ripley’s Message: Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley returns with a message for IYO SKY ahead of their anticipated title match next week. After SKY’s warning last week, this segment could set the tone for their showdown.

What Else to Expect

• Jade Cargill Return Rumors: There’s chatter about Jade Cargill making a comeback after her recent assault, possibly confronting Belair and Naomi or Morgan and Rodriguez to settle the score.
• Gunther Buzz: The World Heavyweight Champion is rumored to appear, likely addressing his ongoing tension with Royal Rumble winner Jey Uso. Their heated exchanges have been a highlight, and tonight could escalate their road to WrestleMania.

With Elimination Chamber qualifiers wrapped up last week, it’s full speed ahead to Saturday’s premium live event from Toronto!

Drew McIntyre was a part of WWE’s Topps Rip Night in Jersey City, but the Scottish Warrior had more than trading cards on his mind. When McIntyre pulled a Cody Rhodes card from a pack, he warned the reigning Undisputed WWE Champion “I’m coming for you.” McIntyre will be a part of the Men’s Elimination Chamber match which will determine Rhodes’ challenger for WrestleMania 41 in April.

McIntyre later pulled a card featuring LA Knight, an individual the three-time former WWE World Champion has had issues with as of late. Referring to their issues stemming from the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match, McIntyre shared that “Alright, let’s do the bit. My good buddy, LA Knight. See, I got your stuff in for you.”

McIntyre was reportedly left furious as Knight’s attempts to ‘get his stuff in’ affected Drew’s role in the Rumble, including his elimination. While these issues have seemingly simmered down, with the matter even being addressed on SmackDown, WWE are reportedly considering ditching a McIntyre Vs. Damian Priest feud, another idea McIntyre has taken issue with.

With McIntyre not a favorite to win the Elimination Chamber match, questions remain as to what his role at WrestleMania 41 will look like. Though WWE has yet to confirm anything, many believe a showdown with Knight is coming, especially after his comments this week.

On his Extreme Life of Matt Hardy podcast, Matt looked at the recent push of Harley Cameron, who despite her popularity, came up short against Mercedes Moné at Grand Slam: Australia. Hardy argued that even if Cameron isn’t on Mone’s level when it comes to in-ring wrestling ability, that shouldn’t have been a factor in the event’s booking.

“Who cares? Harley doesn’t match her in the ring. That’s irrelevant.”

Hardy shared his issue with Tony Khan’s mantra that AEW is ‘Where the best wrestle.’ While this is some effective promoting of the company, Hardy believes that Khan’s focus on in-ring work is having a negative impact on popular acts on the roster who may not be the ‘best’ in the ring.

“It doesn’t matter if she doesn’t match up. It drives me nuts man. If you are over (as a) character, if people are interested, it’s gonna help sell tickets, it’s gonna move merch, and someone that’s popular, utilize them.”

While Cameron may still become AEW TBS Champion, many believe the promotion’s ideal window has passed, and that a victory in her native Australia should have happened. The match in Brisbane marked Cameron’s first time competing for any championship in AEW, with fans hoping it is not her last.

As for Hardy, he will be a part of the upcoming WWE NXT, in a historic return for both himself and Jeff. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Matt Hardy and his views on AEW and the wider wrestling world.

Sami Zayn has revealed how his relationship with WWE creative has changed over the years.

Whether it’s giving a celebrity like Johnny Knoxville a good match or putting over young stars like Bron Breakker, Zayn is a name that WWE officials always seem to rely on more than most veteran talents on the roster.

During a recent interview with Flamesnation, the Underdog from The Underground was asked if the creative ever hear no from him for anything they throw at him. Sami Zayn explained that they don’t hear no but they always hear different ideas:

“I don’t think they hear no, but they hear ideas, that’s for sure. They hear a lot of them. I think I’ve been pretty fortunate over the years to have a pretty decent success rate to where it’s given me a certain amount of equity with them that my ideas will be heard. And again, I’ll also give a little bit of credit to the sort of change in creative and the creative shift over the years.

Last couple of years under Triple H, but even a little bit prior to that, just with my relationship with the creative team to where just my voice feels heard. They’re not gonna do everything I suggest but they don’t look at it like ‘Gosh, these wrestlers giving us these ideas.’ Some wrestlers might give bad ideas. I hope I’m not throwing anything bad out there.”

• Female Talents Feel Insecure About WWE Spot After Sonya Deville’s Abrupt Departure

Privilege That’s Earned Over Time: Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn explained that the equity he has built with the creative over the years has allowed the two parties to be more communicative. His positive reputation is one of the reasons why the former IC Champion is always factored into plans:

“So I’ll throw a lot out there and I really appreciate having a voice that’s heard and being met or if an idea doesn’t work, they kind of explain why and ‘Hey we want to do this idea instead’ or whatever and you just go with it.

But even that’s sort of like a privilege that’s earned over time. Because they don’t write everybody into stories all the time. I feel like over the last 4-5 years I’ve been consistently written into a story at all times. Then it’s incumbent on me to just make it work. So that I don’t know, that’s not lost on me.”

• The Rock Reveals Wrestling Moment That Broke His Spirits