Linda McMahon, former WWE CEO, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee today for her confirmation hearing as Secretary of Education. McMahon was joined by her daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Paul ‘Triple’ Levesque at the proceedings at the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Levesque was seated directly behind the nominee while Stephanie was to the right of her husband. Linda’s son Shane was also present alongside his wife Marissa.

McMahon’s hearing comes at a pivotal moment for the Department of Education, as President Trump has openly declared his intention to eliminate the agency. Trump, who McMahon worked for during his first presidency, has referred to the department as a “big con job.” Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has already reduced the department’s funding by nearly $1 billion, raising questions about McMahon’s potential role in leading an agency marked for dissolution.

McMahon brings significant business acumen from her tenure transforming WWE into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise though has little background in education. Though McMahon previously served for one year on Connecticut’s State Board of Education, her departure came with controversy. After her exit, it was revealed that she had misled the board when applying, claiming she had a Bachelors degree in Education. Her degree is actually in Frnech.

This confirmation process represents a crucial juncture for federal education policy as McMahon may be tasked with overseeing major structural changes. With McMahon dedicating her loyalty to Trump/Musk’s plot to abolish the department, her time leading the DOE may be a short one if confirmed.

Big E has proven to be a larger-than-life personality in WWE, but he’d take it to the next level as part of the Marvel Universe. Speaking on  X-Pod 97 with Mega Ran and Marcos, Big E hilariously described his unique character, ‘The Pec Shield’ and his unique powers.

“I absorb strikes via the pec, then send them back double-fold. You try to punch me, and I’ll catch it with the pec, and I’ll break your hand. It’s all pec-based offense.”

Big E’s poignant pectoral powers wouldn’t just be for defense, however. On the podcast, the former WWE Champion explained that his alter ego would also be able to attack.

“I should be able to shoot things, too. You try to throw me out a window? It’s like airbags—I bounce! You throw me off an 80-story building, and I just land on my feet, no problem.”

If made into a reality, The Pec Shield would join a rich catalog of characters including members of the Avengers, the X-Men, and the Fantastic Four. For his dream Marvel team-up, Big E would love to see The Pec Shield team up with fan-favorite Wolverine.

“Wolverine was my favorite growing up, and I feel like it’d be a perfect buddy-cop situation. He’s got all that hothead energy, and I’m the guy trying to get him to meditate.”

Whether The Peck Shield shows up in a comic-book store near you or not, Big E has already landed in the world of Marvel. The former WWE Champion is the voice of ‘Bulldozer’ in Disney+’s new series ‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man,’ proving that his eclectic personality cannot be contained to the squared circle.

Throughout her WWE career, Mandy Rose put countless opponents away with her ‘Kiss The Rose’ finisher; a running bicyle knee. On a recent edition of her Power Alphas podcast, Rose recalled how her finisher came together.

“When I started to do my bicycle knee, I remember specifically Sarah Amato, she was the one that helped me with that because she was like ‘I feel like you’d have a good bicycle knee.’ And I was like ‘Yeah let’s do it.'”

Despite Rose’s eagerness to add the move to the arsenal, she revealed that she had to seek permission to use the bicycle knee that others in WWE were using at the time.

“In the beginning, it was ‘Oh well let’s ask a couple of people.’ There was a few that did it, that it’s okay to do and I remember doing it. I think I went up to Sheamus I remember a few people I went up to.”

Rose’s situation demonstrates the respect-based nature of the wrestling business and how younger, newer stars often find themselves seeking permission and validation from veterans.

While Rose was granted permission by the powers that be, many are not so fortunate. Gabbi Tuft, who competed as Tyler Reks, has claimed that she was told to stop using the Burning Hammer, as it was deemed too similar to John Cena’s Attitude Adjustment.

Rose was let go under controversial circumstances in late 2022 and has yet to compete since then. Though questions remain as to whether fans will ever see her back in a WWE ring, she won’t have to ask permission to hit ‘Kiss The Rose’ should she return to competition.

Mandy Rose is making clear that she never “bashed” Tiffany Stratton after a recent comment from the former NXT Women’s Champion made waves. During an episode of her Power Alphas podcast, Rose made clear that she doesn’t have ‘beef’ with WWE’s reigning Women’s Champion.

“I never bashed Tiffany Stratton. I actually put her over weeks before about how I think she’s an amazing talent. I think she’s definitely going places.”

Rose’s comments come after a previous episode of her podcast in which she suggested that Stratton had ‘stolen’ a line of hers. The line in question, ‘put some respect on my name,’ was used by Rose shortly after her NXT Women’s Title victory and was used by Stratton in her first appearance as Champion.

“People were just going nuts, like, ‘Oh my God, you’re just jealous!’ You’re this, you’re that. She’s done more.’ And I’m like, ‘Guys, calm down.'”

Fans have often compared Stratton and Rose, both of whom joined WWE without a past in pro wrestling. Though some fans may have taken Rose’s initial comments as a dig at Stratton, she’s now made clear that “there’s no hate, trust me!”

Stratton will almost certainly walk into WrestleMania 41 as WWE Women’s Champion, with a title match against Charlotte Flair expected. Whether Stratton wins or loses this April, Rose is pleased to see Tiffy Time reign in WWE, despite speculation of heat between the pair.

For Roxanne Perez, the 2025 Royal Rumble wasn’t just a career milestone—it was a childhood dream realized. Nearly a decade before she became the longest-lasting competitor in the Women’s Rumble, a young Perez stood outside a wrestling event, waiting to meet her hero, Nikki Bella.

In a resurfaced video, a teenage Perez excitedly tells Bella, “In five years, you’re going to need a tag partner.” But when Bella playfully suggested the idea, Perez had a different vision. “I’d rather wrestle you,” she replied.

Fast forward to this year’s Royal Rumble, and that’s exactly what happened. In a surreal full-circle moment, Perez found herself face-to-face with Nikki Bella in the ring, even engaging in a push-up contest before tensions boiled over. During an appearance on the No-Contest Wrestling Podcast, Perez recalled:

“Ten years later, I’m in the ring with Nikki Bella… and I almost slapped her!”

The moment encapsulates just how fast Perez has risen in WWE. The former two-time NXT Women’s Champion has already broken records, headlined pay-per-views, and now gone toe-to-toe with one of the biggest female stars in WWE history.

While she may not have won the Royal Rumble, her performance—including being one of the final two competitors—cemented her as a future main event player. And if history is any indication, it won’t be long before Perez’s next dream turns into reality.

As WWE continues its road to WrestleMania 41, this week’s episode of SmackDown promises high-stakes action with the Elimination Chamber event fast approaching (3/1). However, regular announcer Joe Tessitore will be absent from the February 14 edition of the show due to prior commitments with ESPN.

Tessitore’s Absence and Possible Replacement

Tessitore, who has been a key part of the SmackDown commentary team alongside Wade Barrett, will instead be covering a live boxing event for ESPN, featuring Denys Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn Davis at Madison Square Garden. This scheduling conflict leaves WWE searching for a temporary replacement.

While no official announcement has been made, long-time WWE commentator Michael Cole is widely expected to fill in for Tessitore. Given Cole’s extensive experience in WWE broadcasting, he would be a natural choice to step in for the night. Tessitore is expected to return to his regular duties the following week.

SmackDown Preview: Feb. 14, 2025

Even without Joe T on the call, SmackDown at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, is shaping up to be destination viewing.

Some of the night’s major matches include:

• WWE Women’s Championship: Tiffany Stratton defends her title against former champion Nia Jax. Charlotte Flair has expressed interest in the outcome as she considers her WrestleMania opponent.
• Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier: Braun Strowman, Jacob Fatu, and Damian Priest will compete in a triple-threat match for a spot in the Elimination Chamber.
• Women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier: Naomi takes on Chelsea Green, with the winner advancing to the upcoming match.

On the Insight podcast, Michelle McCool opened up about her marriage to WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker. McCool shared that while dating within WWE wasn’t uncommon, her relationship with the Deadman made her a target for criticism in ways others weren’t.

“I just know that I wasn’t the only one dating guys around there, and I definitely didn’t see that from anybody else.”

The pair began dating in the late 2000s, coinciding with McCool’s lengthy reign as WWE Women’s Champion. While some may suspect that her relationship with the WWE icon gave her advantages, McCool was adamant that she always fought her own battles.

“I actually am so stubborn, I don’t ever need any type of help to fight any battle, to fight a storyline, to pitch a storyline… I can look in the mirror and just say that’s never happened.”

On the podcast, McCool recalled an incident with a colleague, andshared that she had to “beg” The Undertaker not to escalate the matter, fearing it’d look bad on McCool’s part. Though she avoided naming names, McCool shared that writers within WWE took issue with her relationship.

“There were writers that literally threw up their papers. ‘If she wasn’t The Undertaker’s girlfriend…’”

McCool also battled two-faced individuals within WWE, sharing that people treated her very differently once they learned of her relationship with the Phenom. Michelle recalled making clear to someone that she was the same person she was ten minutes ago, before they’d learned of her relationship.

Despite these experiences, McCool remained steadfast in proving herself through hard work and resilience. Her insights provide a rare glimpse into the backstage dynamics of WWE and the challenges that come with being in a relationship with one of the most respected women in WWE history.

Michelle McCool has opened up about being part of the Piggy James storyline.

In 2009, the former Divas Champion was involved in a demeaning storyline with fellow legend Mickie James. The storyline saw McCool, alongside her tag team partner Layla bullying James for supposedly being overweight and nicknaming her Piggy James.

The retired wrestling star opened up about the feud during a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet. Michelle McCool noted that she hated the whole thing and revealed that she used to apologise to Mickie constantly for it:

“The whole Piggy James storyline, me at heart hated it, just because of what it was. You’re bullying somebody, supposedly that they’re supposedly overweight, and that has never been me. Every week I’d go up to her, ‘Mickie, I’m so sorry. This is what they want us to say’.”

• Michelle McCool Names Current WWE Star She Is Interested In Facing

Michelle McCool Praises Mickie James

Michelle McCool later gave praise to Mickie James for never complaining about it or trying to change the story like other talents. She also expressed the belief that the storyline is what got the LayCool tag team off the ground:

“Complete professional. Not once did she try to change things, which often girls did. Not once. She’s like, ‘No, it’s good. It’s cool.’ She knew that took two to tango. She knew what her role was. She knew what our role was, and she really, I think, put us on the map with that storyline.”

Apart from this, Michelle McCool talked about a potential Hall of Fame induction. She said that being inducted individually will be an honor but she hopes that LayCool also gets inducted as a team.

• Sheamus Reunites With Former Teammate After AEW Release

Chad Gable is ready to hold a singles title in WWE.

The American-made leader has won gold while competing in all three brands of WWE as part of various tag teams. Despite his decade-plus career with the company, however, he is still in the hunt for his first singles championship in the world of professional wrestling.

The former Olympian talked about his predicament during a recent appearance on The Jay Ferruggia Show. Gable claimed that he is considering the ‘dangerous’ idea of making this his goal for 2025:

“I’m entertaining the idea if I’m going to put ‘win a singles title’ on my goals for 2025 because it’s not all in my hands. I will be very disappointed if I don’t deliver.

I’m a goal guy. I’m a goal-driven guy. I’m interested to see what I will do, on top of everything else I do, to try to make that happen or force it to happen. I know I’m ready. I can carry a title.”

• Shelton Benjamin Opens Up About Failed Tag Team With Chad Gable

People Are Going To Have Respect For That: Chad Gable

Chad Gable came very close to winning his first singles title in 2023 when he feuded with the then Intercontinental Champion Gunther. Gable even picked up a victory over the Ring General via countout in one of the title matches during their feud, ending Gunther’s undefeated streak on the main roster.

To the frustration of a lot of fans, however, it was Gunther who got the upper hand in the end. He ended the feud with a decisive win over Gable, making Chad’s daughter cry in the process. When the host mentioned that people have been ready for a Chad Gable title run, the 38-year-old noted that fans mention it to him every time he interacts with them:

“You can sense that, I get that any time I interact with people at a meet and greet. ‘You gotta get your singles title.’ It’s almost cool in a sense that no matter what it is or which title ends up being, I think people are going to have respect for that. ‘He earned it. He deserved it.’

Gable lost a match to the debuting Penta during the January 13th episode of Raw. Since then he has embarked on a quest to learn the ‘dark arts of Lucha Libre’ to enact revenge on the masked star.

• Sheamus Reunites With Former Teammate After AEW Release

Could CJ Perry and Miro reunite, potentially in WWE? The Ravishing Russian has teased that fans shouldn’t count the idea out just yet. On X, Perry suggested that Miro could rekindle his feud with WWE’s Andrade and that the Bulgarian would need her help to win.

Perry’s post comes after Miro was released from AEW, an exit he reportedly requested in 2024 but was denied at the time. Andrade parted ways with AEW in early 2024 and would waste no time in returning to WWE as part of that year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match. Perry confirmed her exit from AEW in July 2024 though has yet to appear for another promotion.

In March 2024, it was revealed that Perry and Miro had separated, ending their marriage that had began in 2016. Her comments this week are not the first time she has teased reuniting with Miro on-screen, leaving fans wondering if the pair could soon be back together as a couple. In the comments, one fan questioned if the couple are “trying to repair things” while another asked Perry “Girl are you back together?”

With Miro only recently leaving AEW, its too early to say what’s next for the Bulgarian, who wrestled just seven times in his final two years under Tony Khan. Whatever comes, fans can expect Perry to take an interest in the actions of Miro and Andrade, leaving fans curious to see what’s to come.

Miro Reunites With WWE Star After Exit from AEW

John Cena will compete for the final time in 2025, and AEW’s Tony Chimel hopes to be a part of the huge send-off to the WWE icon. Despite being contracted to AEW, Chimel told Donnie DaSilva and Jimmy Korderas on their HUGE POP! podcast that he would love to play a role in Cena’s goodbye.

“They (AEW) are pretty free with their guys and I’m sure if — you know, I can talk to my bosses over there… I don’t think anyone would have a problem.”

While AEW are “pretty free” when it comes to allowing talent to work elsewhere, putting Chimel back on WWE programming could prove to be an issue. Since launching in 2019, AEW has proven to be WWE’s most fierce rival with both promotions often clasing in head-to-head battles.

Ricky Starks In NXT & Every AEW Name To Sign With WWE

Although WWE and AEW have been at odds, Cena could prove to be a bridge between the two companies. In 2022, AEW allowed several names on its roster to appear on WWE Raw via videos, congratulating Cena on the 20th anniversary of his WWE debut. It’s clear that Tony Khan holds respect for Cena, making Chimel’s potential role with WWE unlikely, but not impossible.

John Cena’s next match will come at Elimination Chamber 2025, where he hopes to win the Men’s Chamber match and earn a WWE Championship opportunity at WrestleMania 41. It remains to be seen if Chimel is allowed to play a part but no matter what, fans can expect a fitting send off for the WWE icon.

Sheamus recently reunited with his former teammate Miro known to WWE fans as Rusev after the latter’s departure from AEW.

The former TNT Champion was one of the names released by Tony Khan’s company earlier this month, ending his 5-year run with the company.

The Celtic Warrior seemingly reunited with the now former AEW star recently for a drink and he shared a photo with Miro from a pub:

• Sheamus Praises Cesaro’s Genius and Their Legacy as The Bar

The History of Sheamus And Rusev

Sheamus and Rusev have history together as both partners and rivals. It was the Irish star who Rusev defeated to win his first ever title in WWE, winning the United States Championship in a WWE Network exclusive match in 2014.

The duo also teamed together as part of the short-lived League of Nations faction also featuring Alberto Del Rio and King Barrett back in 2016.

The former WWE star however, has not been active in the wrestling world for over a year. His last match came at the 2023 Worlds End PPV where he picked up a victory against Andrade.

All kind of rumours have persisted as to why the company did not book the former TNT Champion for any shows since then. With Miro now a free agent, it’d be interesting to see if we get some answers to his AEW mystery.

• Paul Heyman Reveals New 2K25 Mode Never Seen Before In WWE Games

Winning a WWE championship is the dream of every wrestler, but for Tiffany Stratton, the moment was a blur.

The current WWE Women’s Champion reflected on her title victory in a recent interview on Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, revealing that she wasn’t sure if her Money in the Bank cash-in would work as planned.

“That night was high stress. I didn’t know if it was the perfect moment or not…

I ran out there and I was just on autopilot. I had no idea if the fans were even going to bite on anything,” Stratton admitted.

Stratton’s cash-in, which saw her seize the championship in dramatic fashion, could have easily gone wrong.

While the Money in the Bank contract is a powerful tool, failed attempts have happened before—something she was keenly aware of in the moment.

“There was always that ‘what if?’ Like, I could have failed. It could have been unsuccessful,” she explained.

Luckily for Stratton, everything fell into place. The match-ending moonsault connected perfectly, securing her first WWE title.

“The moment I hit my moonsault and it landed perfectly and it was 1-2-3, I finally felt like I could really relish in the moment. It was so amazing, so surreal.”

Stratton’s championship reign is still in its early stages, but with her confidence growing and WWE’s biggest season ahead, it’s clear she’s just getting started.

Roxanne Perez isn’t just making history—she’s rewriting it. At the 2025 Royal Rumble, the two-time NXT Women’s Champion lasted a record-breaking 67 minutes, outlasting WWE’s top stars before being eliminated by Charlotte Flair in the final moments. Now, Perez has her sights set on something even bigger: WrestleMania.

Speaking on the No Contest Wrestling Podcast, Perez laid out an ambitious roadmap to the biggest show of the year.

“I’m going to go to Vengeance Day, I’m going to beat all three of those women and become a three-time NXT Women’s Champion,” Perez declared.

“Then, I’m going to go to Raw with my title and beat Raquel Rodriguez, win the Elimination Chamber, and go to WrestleMania to become double champion.”

It’s a bold plan, but Perez has a track record of turning dreams into reality. From becoming the youngest Ring of Honor Women’s Champion at 19 to winning the first-ever NXT Iron Survivor Challenge, she has consistently proven she belongs among WWE’s elite.

Her Royal Rumble performance cemented that. Entering early, she survived attacks from former champions and found herself face-to-face with Charlotte Flair in the final two. Though she came up short, the moment was a glimpse into the future.

“I don’t think the main roster girls are ready for me,” she said with confidence.

First, she’ll need to get past Vengeance Day on February 15, where she faces NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria, Bayley, and Cora Jade in a Fatal 4-Way match. But if Perez continues her rapid rise, her WrestleMania dream might not be far off.

WWE Superstar Big E has always been known for his infectious energy and larger-than-life personality, but in a recent interview on X-Pod 97 with Mega Ran and Marcos, he opened up about the importance of community, resilience, and the overwhelming support he received after his severe neck injury in 2022.

For many, a career-threatening injury would be an isolating experience. But for Big E, the outpouring of love from friends, fans, and colleagues made all the difference.

“I had so much love, man. I never felt alone, never felt depressed, because I had this constant barrage of love and support from strangers, from friends, from people I’d never met.”

“I Got So Much Love”

Reflecting on what got him through such a challenging time, Big E emphasized the power of leaning on others.

“When I was going through my mental health struggles in college and beyond, I so often felt like a burden. I didn’t want to lean on others. But we need each other. We forget how much we need each other.”

He pointed out that simple gestures meant the world to him during recovery.

“Every text message, every call—I got so much love. I had so many people reaching out. Even Mustafa Ali sent me a Lego Seinfeld set. The IIconics sent me Edible Arrangements. It didn’t matter what it was—it was the thought that meant everything.”

Big E’s words serve as a reminder that no one has to go through hard times alone.

“We are meant to lean on each other. Life is not always going to be like this. It comes in waves—ups and downs. But when we’re down, having people there to pick us up makes all the difference.”

As Big E continues to explore new ventures in entertainment, including his work with Marvel and WWE’s Raw Classics on Netflix, his message remains clear: Strength isn’t just about muscle—it’s about the community that surrounds and uplifts you.

• Lawsuit Filed: An Ohio woman is suing Hulk Hogan, Real American Beer, and a local bar after being struck in the head by a thrown beer can at a promotional event, suffering a severe injury.
• Negligence Alleged: The lawsuit claims the event organizers created an unsafe environment by tossing full beer cans into the crowd, leading to medical expenses, pain, and permanent scarring for the victim.

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and his beer company, Real American Beer, are facing legal trouble after an Akron, Ohio, woman was injured at one of the brand’s promotional events.

Akron’s Fox 8 reports that Michelle Harlukowicz has filed a lawsuit against Hogan, his company, and a Medina, Ohio, bar after being struck in the head by a sealed beer can thrown into the crowd during an event on August 19, 2024. The lawsuit, filed on February 10, 2025, alleges negligence, arguing that Hogan and other event promoters created an unsafe environment by tossing full cans of beer to attendees.

Severe Head Injury from Thrown Beer Can

According to her attorney, Eric Tayfel, Harlukowicz suffered a deep wound on her forehead, requiring nearly 10 stitches and leaving permanent scarring.

“She had an open wound to her forehead,” Tayfel stated. “It was pretty big. She ended up needing a number of stitches to her head, and she’s going to have some permanent scarring from that.”

The lawsuit claims that Hogan or another event promoter threw the can from an estimated 50 feet away, striking Harlukowicz while she stood near the back of the venue. She reportedly had no warning and no chance to avoid being hit.

Lawsuit Alleges Negligence by Hogan, Venue

Medina Township Police responded to the incident, but no charges were filed as officers were unable to determine who threw the beer. However, the lawsuit holds Hogan, Real American Beer, and Thirsty Cowboys—along with its owner, Aaron Lind—responsible for failing to ensure guest safety.

“How does a responsible company allow full cans of beer to be thrown into a crowd of its guests?” Tayfel questioned.

Harlukowicz is seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

“First of all, we want some accountability,” Tayfel added. “He is still touring around hocking his beer. We certainly don’t want to have this happen to anyone else.”

Fox 8 reached out to Real American Beer and Thirsty Cowboys for comment, but neither responded.

Real American Beer and WWE Partnership

In January 2025, WWE and Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer entered into a multi-year partnership, expanding the brand’s presence within the wrestling industry. As part of the deal, WWE acquired a minority stake in the beer company, which launched in June 2024 and is now available in 20 U.S. states.

The partnership includes extensive branding integration, with the Real American Beer logo displayed on ring mat corners during Monday Night Raw on Netflix. Additionally, WWE provides promotional support across its digital platforms, which reach over 700 million users worldwide. WWE trademarks and Superstars also feature in retail promotions and point-of-sale displays, further solidifying the connection between the beer brand and professional wrestling.

Big E recently opened up about his return to WWE and the fan reactions surrounding his storyline with Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods. Speaking on X-Pod 97, the former WWE Champion shared his excitement over the moment, emphasizing its uniqueness in wrestling history.

“I had never seen anything done like what we did in that ring before,” Big E said. “I can’t think of another turn that happened the way this one did. Ultimately, I’m really happy.”

The storyline has reignited interest in The New Day, sparking intense discussions among fans. While some have embraced the direction, others have taken to social media with divided opinions. Big E acknowledged the passionate reactions, even joking about how his personal posts now draw unexpected commentary.

“Now I got pro-Kofi and Woods trolls every time I post about Spider-Man,” he quipped.

The New Day’s Legacy and Future Evolution

Beyond the immediate fan reactions, Big E reflected on the evolution of The New Day and its place in WWE history. He emphasized the importance of change in the industry, noting that even successful acts must continue to grow.

“In this industry, you have to evolve. Even when you find gold, you can’t just stay on the same path,” he explained. “Once people love you and you get the chants down, you can keep coasting—but then that’s all you are, you know what I mean?”

Despite their initial struggles, Big E remains proud of what he, Kingston, and Woods built together. He believes the latest developments have reignited excitement around his longtime partners, ensuring The New Day remains a central focus in WWE.

“We were three guys trying to save our careers. But now, for better or worse, the wrestling world is talking about those two again. I feel like a fire has been reignited.”

While Big E didn’t reveal specific plans for his own future, his comments suggest that his return could have lasting implications—not just for himself, but for the legacy of The New Day.

Catch Big E’s inteview on X-Pod 97 with Mega Ran:

Ricky Starks has withdrawn from a scheduled independent wrestling appearance following his debut on this week’s WWE NXT.

Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling (TCW), based in Atlanta, announced that Starks will be unable to appear at Saturday’s live event due to “circumstances beyond their control.”

“Important Announcement: Due to circumstances beyond our control, Ricky Starks will not be in attendance on Saturday, February 15th, at the Tannery Row Ale House. However, you can still expect the same incredible evening of Georgia’s premier star-studded, action-packed, family-friendly independent professional wrestling that TCW Live has to offer! We will see you at the matches!”

Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling was founded in 200 by the late “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. The concept was to present old school Southern style professional wrestling on a local level, while serving as a training ground for wrestlers climbing the ranks in the business. After a 20-year hiatus, the promotion was relaunched in 2024 by QT Marshall and Dusty’s daughter Teil Rhodes, who serves as an authority figure.

If Starks is having to withdraw fro scheduled independent dates, that does not bode well for his reign as the new Defy World Champion which began a few days ago.

Drew McIntyre is a proven master of social media trolling and has now set his sights on SmackDown rival LA Knight. On X (fka Twitter,) McIntyre used a viral absent tattoo meme to mock Knight’s lack of WWE World Championships.

McIntyre’s latest barb at Knight is just the latest interaction between the two. The Scottish Warrior was said to be furious at the 2025 Royal Rumble PLE as Knight disrupted the flow of the match and Drew’s elimination. Though things have cooled down behind the scenes, Knight made reference to ‘getting his stuff in’ during a promo against McIntyre on the latest WWE SmackDown.

This online dig by McIntyre has left fans excited at the prospect of a one-on-one showdown between the two Superstars. Though McIntyre was initially set to face Damian Priest at WrestleMania 41, an idea he reportedly opposed, this dig could be a sign that it’ll be Knight who faces McIntyre this April in Las Vegas instead.

Update On Drew McIntyre’s WrestleMania Plans After Royal Rumble Incident

Drew McIntyre has never shied away from using social media to play mindgames, as he did exactly that in his feuds with CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and others. With LA Knight now offically on the Scottish Warrior’s radar, fans should expect a full-blown collision between the two popular Superstars very soon.

In a stylish social media reveal, Karyn Best has announced her WWE persona as “Summer Sorrell,” accompanied by professional photos and Jay-Z’s iconic line “Allow me to reintroduce myself.”

The announcement marks the latest milestone in Best’s transition from track and field star to WWE-contracted professional wrestler. She’s set to be featured on the new WWE Evolve series, coming to Tubi starting March 5.

Before joining WWE, Best dominated high school track and field, setting 16 school records and collecting multiple titles including a state championship in the 300-meter hurdles and two USATF Youth National Championships in the 400-meter hurdles. She continued her athletic career at Cal State Fullerton, competing in events including the 60-meter hurdles and 400-meter dash.

Best’s journey to WWE began at tryouts during SummerSlam weekend in August 2024, leading to her joining the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida as part of the company’s new recruitment class.

The newly-minted Summer Sorrell is engaged to fellow WWE performer, Kale Dixon.

Since cashing in Money in the Bank, Tiffany Stratton has made the WWE Women’s Championship her own, but could the title be in store for a serious makeover?

During her recent interview on Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, Stratton was asked if she’d consider customizing her title to match the pink aesthetic. The self-professed ‘Buff Barbie’ previously introduced a pink Money in the Bank briefcase after capturing the contract last year.

“I say never say never. I’m Tiffany Stratton—I’m an icon living, I’m a legend living. A pink title would totally fit Tiffy Time.”

Stratton’s fashionable transformation of the Money in the Bank briefcase certainly turned heads in 2024, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if she took the same approach with the Women’s Championship.

The question among fans is whether WWE would approve a change to the title design, which was introduced in 2023. Given Stratton’s rising star power and dedication to her brand, it’s not out of the question as she told fans “you’ll have to wait and see, guys!”

Stratton’s reign is just getting started, and with WrestleMania 41 approaching, the champ plans on holding her gold for a very long time. Whether a pink title is in the cards remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—it’s Tiffy Time no matter the color of the WWE Women’s Championship.

Tiffany Stratton Pitches Netflix Title For Women’s Mid-Card In 2025

Custom WWE Championships

Throughout WWE history, several iconic Superstars have personalized their championships, including the Ultimate Warrior (belt color variations), Bryan Danielson (Eco-Friendly WWE Championship) and John Cena (spinner versions of the United States and WWE Championships).

Others introduced their own titles entirely, such as like Ted DiBiase (the diamond-encrusted Million Dollar Championship) Stone Cold Steve Austin (Smoking Skull belt in 1998) and The Rock, who recently received the prestigious People’s Championship from Muhammad Ali’s wife at the 2024 Hall of Fame ceremony.

For decades, The Undertaker played a key role in WWE both as an on-screen performer and as a backstage figure. Though his career in the ring is a thing of the past, the WWE Hall of Famer continues to influence wrestlers throughout WWE.

In 2015, Bray Wyatt feuded with The Undertaker in a clash of two of WWE’s darkest characters. In a video hyping up WWE LFG, Wyatt reflected on The Undertaker’s teaching nature in footage from before the passing of Windham Rotunda.

“He teaches everyone, everything. That’s just how powerful he is here. To say I learned one thing from him is an understatement.”

Wyatt was not the only name who had praise for the Undertaker in the video. WWE CCO Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque highlighted the importance of talent like the Phenom to “pass on their knowledge,” adding that it is key to the “survival of the business.” John Cena feuded with The Undertaker in 2003 and the pair would share the ring several in the subsequent years. A WWE icon in his own right, Cena described The Undertaker as “our never-ending, ass-kicking, undead phenomenon.”

Why The Undertaker Opposes John Cena Winning A 17th WWE World Title

Bray Wyatt tragically passed in August 2023, and new footage of the former World Champion is a rarity for fans to witness. As this video shows, Wyatt was among the many WWE Superstars who benefitted greatly from the work of The Undertaker.

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair believes AEW star Mercedes Moné will eventually return to WWE and wrestle again as Sasha Banks.

Moné left WWE in 2022 due to creative differences with Vince McMahon. After a stint in NJPW, she signed with AEW, where she has remained undefeated since her debut in March 2024. She currently holds four championships and boasts a 15-0 record.

However, while speaking on Busted Open, Flair expressed doubts about AEW being the right long-term home for Moné. The Nature Boy argued that AEW lacks the world-class competition she’ll require to remain driven.

“Right now, I do think WWE is a better fit, yeah, because she doesn’t have that many good opponents over there in AEW.

Everybody’s good. To be in the business, you’ve got to be good, but to be great, that encompasses a whole different word. ‘Great’ and ‘good’—you know what I mean? And I truly believe she’ll end up over there back in WWE.”

Despite Flair’s prediction, Moné has downplayed any possibility of returning to WWE. She has previously stated that she is happy in AEW and does not envision a WWE comeback anytime soon.

Flair’s daughter, Charlotte Flair, recently made history by becoming the first woman to win the Royal Rumble twice and is now headed to WrestleMania 41. Given their legendary rivalry in WWE, Flair seems convinced that Moné and Charlotte will share the ring again.

For now, Moné remains focused on AEW, where she is scheduled to defend the TBS Championship against Harley Cameron this Saturday at Grand Slam Australia.

After years of estrangement, legendary WWE tag team Demolition appears to be mending fences with the company, potentially paving the way for their long-awaited Hall of Fame induction.

The iconic duo of Ax (Bill Eadie) and Smash (Barry Darsow), who dominated WWE’s tag team division in the late 1980s and early 1990s, held the Tag Team Championships for a combined 698 days across three reigns, including a remarkable 478-day stretch that stood as a record for nearly three decades.

The relationship between Demolition and WWE became complicated following legal disputes, including a 1997 lawsuit over the rights to the team’s name and gimmick, and their involvement in a 2016 class-action lawsuit regarding concussion-related injuries. However, recent developments under Triple H’s leadership suggest a significant improvement in relations.

Barry Darsow revealed that WWE extended an invitation to the team for last year’s WrestleMania and Hall of Fame ceremony, though prior commitments prevented their attendance.

Bill Eadie has expressed optimism about their future with WWE, noting that while past politics under Vince McMahon’s leadership may have blocked their Hall of Fame induction, the new regime offers fresh possibilities.

With their profiles now restored to WWE’s Alumni section and improved communication between both parties, Demolition’s long-overdue recognition may finally be on the horizon.

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan have concluded their criminal investigation into former WWE CEO Vince McMahon, his attorney has claimed. Speaking to The New York Post, Robert W. Allen shared that a ruling from a three-panel judge determined whether McMahon broke the law by hiding allegations of sexual misconduct from two former two female employees.

The judge’s verdict does not mention McMahon by name but refers to a CEO who allegedly mislead company auditors to conceal allegations of sexual misconduct. Sources close to the situation told The Post that this was about McMahon, who paid $10.5 million to keep the two former employees quiet.

Allen shared on Tuesday, February 12, that the prosecutors have ended their probe without seeking indictments against McMahon by a grand jury.

“This is simply the result of an appeal of a procedural matter that was argued five months ago. We have been in consistent communication with the government since that time and understand, with no ambiguity, that the investigation has definitively concluded and will not result in charges.”

The end of this probe into McMahon’s activities comes after the 79-year-old billionaire paid $1.7 million to the Securities and Exchange Commission in January 2025 as part of a settlement over financial mistatements. At the time, McMahon dismissed the matter as “minor accounting errors” and shared that “I’m thrilled that I can now put all this behind me.”

Stephanie McMahon Weighs In On Vince: “I Know Where I Stand”

McMahon has been accused of sexual abuse and trafficking by Janel Grant as well as sexual misconduct by other women who have previously worked for WWE. McMahon stepped down from WWE in January 2024 over Grant’s lawsuit but has denied the notion that their relationship was not consensual.