Tonight’s WWE Monday Night Raw will air live from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Netflix.  

Raw Preview: January 20, 2025

Here are the advertised matches and segments:

Seth “Freakin” Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre: Following a tense confrontation involving CM Punk, Rollins and McIntyre will face off in singles competition. 

The New Day’s Return to Action: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods will make their in-ring return after their recent fallout with Big E. 

WWE Hall of Famer JBL Appearance: JBL is scheduled to make a special appearance on Raw. 

Jey Uso’s Address: Ahead of his World Heavyweight Title Match against Gunther at Saturday Night’s Main Event (1/25), Jey Uso will share his thoughts with the WWE Universe. 

Lyra Valkyria: The inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion begins her reign.

Sami Zayn to Appear: After his victory over The Miz, Sami Zayn is set to address the audience. 

Damage CTRL vs. Pure Fusion Collective: In a tag team grudge match, Dakota Kai and IYO SKY of Damage CTRL will seek payback against Pure Fusion Collective. 

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest WWE news on the road to Saturday Night’s Main Event (1/25) and the 2025 Royal Rumble.

10 Matches We Need to See If Britt Baker Jumps to WWE

What’s a United States presidential inauguration without a touch of WWE flair? On Monday, WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump will reclaim his ‘United States Presidential Championship’—making history as only the second president to serve non-consecutive terms. The first was Grover Cleveland, who held office as the 22nd and 24th president.

WWE and the Trump Inauguration

In addition to Trump’s administration once again including former WWE President Linda McMahon as a key cabinet member (Education Secretary), the inauguration festivities promise plenty of star power. Many of the stars have direct ties to WWE.

• WWE Superstar Logan Paul is in attendance, along with his brother, boxing prizefighter Jake Paul.
• UFC CEO Dana White, Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones and Conor McGregor are there.
• WWE Hall of Famer Mike Tyson will be on hand.
• Longtime Trump ally Hulk Hogan teased that he’ll show up too.

Social media is already abuzz with photos of the Paul brothers and McGregor showcasing their signature showmanship at the celebration.

The Second Trump Inauguration

President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration is set to take place on Monday, January 2025, in Washington, D.C., marking the formal beginning of his presidency. The event is expected to draw a mix of high-profile attendees, including prominent figures from the world of sports and entertainment.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has credited Trump for his support of international soccer, is also planning to be present. The day’s festivities will include the swearing-in ceremony, followed by black-tie receptions co-hosted by major industry leaders, such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, alongside influential sports team owners.

Attendees are expected to celebrate Trump’s ties to the sports world, as many of these athletes and officials have publicly expressed their support for the president-elect.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for coverage of the professional wrestling aspects of United States President Donald Trump’s second Presidential Inauguration.

Britt Baker has cultivated a unique persona as “The DMD”—a supremely confident and accomplished professional who flaunts both her wrestling and dental credentials with an air of superiority. With the recent report from Wade Keller via PWTorch suggesting Baker is “wildly unpopular” in the AEW locker room and potentially finishing up with the company, fans are speculating about her next move. Naturally, this raises an exciting question: what could a run in WWE, the world’s premiere wrestling promotion, look like for Britt Baker?

Baker’s Unique Appeal: A Blend of Reality and Wrestling

Baker’s character work has evolved significantly during her career. Starting as an initially bland babyface, she found her stride as a compelling heel who masterfully taps into her real-life success to generate heat. As “The Role Model,” Baker uses her dual accomplishments in wrestling and dentistry to position herself as superior to others, creating a character that is both despicable and fascinating.

In the ring, Baker employs a technical style highlighted by her signature Lockjaw finishing move—a hybrid scissored armbar and mandible claw that ties into her dentistry background. While her in-ring skills have received mixed reviews, her promo work and character consistency have made her a standout. Whether playing a despised villain or a brash anti-hero, Baker knows how to command attention and elicit strong reactions.

This combination of charisma, storytelling ability, and technical skill makes her an intriguing potential addition to WWE, where she could create memorable matchups with some of the company’s top talent.

Britt Baker Talks Rollercoaster Year After Injuries And Adam Cole Split

Dream Matchups for Britt Baker in WWE

Britt Baker’s in-ring style and larger-than-life persona would make her a natural fit for a variety of opponents across WWE’s roster. Here are ten dream matches that could define her WWE career:

1. Bianca Belair: The EST vs. The DMD would be an incredible clash of personalities and in-ring styles. Both women have carried their respective divisions as champions and proven themselves as main event talents.
2. Charlotte Flair: A showdown between two of the most confident and accomplished women in wrestling would create instant electricity. Their cocky personas and championship pedigrees would make for compelling television.
3. Becky Lynch: The Man vs. The Role Model is a dream match in terms of both wrestling ability and mic work. Their similar journeys as division-defining stars make this matchup a natural fit.
4. Rhea Ripley: The Eradicator vs. The DMD would showcase a compelling dynamic between Ripley’s raw power and Baker’s technical prowess. Their contrasting styles could create an engaging and hard-hitting in-ring story.
5. IYO SKY: SKY’s technical mastery and aerial prowess would pair brilliantly with Baker’s well-rounded skillset, likely producing an in-ring classic filled with high-level storytelling and action.
6. Bayley: As two of wrestling’s most naturally charismatic women, their shared trajectories from beloved babyfaces to despised heels would create rich storytelling opportunities.
7. Asuka: The striking and submission-based style of Asuka matched against Baker’s technical wrestling would result in an exciting clash of styles, with both women pushing each other to the limit.
8. Tiffany Stratton: This pairing of a rising star and an established veteran could elevate both performers. Stratton’s brash personality and athleticism would create interesting segments with Baker’s polished, self-assured character.
9. Liv Morgan: Morgan’s high-flying and risk-taking style contrasts well with Baker’s technical approach. Both women have demonstrated resilience and a connection with the audience, making this matchup dynamic and emotionally engaging.
10. Giulia: As NXT Women’s Champion, Giulia brings a hard-hitting, intense style that would mesh intriguingly with Baker’s technical finesse. This match could serve as a bridge between NXT and WWE’s main roster, spotlighting both competitors’ strengths.

WWE Hall of Famer Hungry For A Match With AEW’s Britt Baker

The DMD’s WWE Future: Endless Possibilities

Britt Baker’s ability to seamlessly blend her real-life accomplishments with wrestling storytelling, combined with her gift for generating heat on the microphone, makes her a natural fit for WWE. Whether working as a heel or an anti-hero, Baker’s persona provides creative flexibility, allowing her to adapt to any storyline.

With proven success in high-profile matches, Baker has the potential to deliver memorable moments and elevate any feud she’s involved in. These ten potential matchups not only offer fresh in-ring combinations but also highlight the compelling character dynamics Baker could bring to WWE’s women’s division. If the rumors of her AEW departure prove true, the DMD’s arrival in WWE could redefine her career—and create must-see television in the process.

WWE has confirmed that Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) will make an appearance on the January 20th episode of Monday Night RAW. This announcement follows JBL’s string of appearances for GCW, TNA and more in recent months. In a recent episode of the Something To Wrestle podcast, JBL shared his thoughts on returning to WWE.

“I’m excited. They gave me a call, and I said, ‘Hey, I’m thrilled to be coming in,” he stated.

JBL also hinted at the possibility of filling in for Pat McAfee, who will be occupied with the National Championship Game. He expressed a desire to reunite with commentator Michael Cole during his appearance, though he noted that specifics about his involvement are still being finalized.

While the exact details of JBL’s role on the show remain unclear, he revealed that WWE’s creative team provided some initial ideas, which he described as “fun.” Sharing his excitement to return, JBL added,

“When you’re gone for a while, you just kind of enjoy being back in the arena, seeing the guys that you know, seeing the new guys. They treat you unbelievably well. The way they handle legends is just fantastic.”

JBL’s return highlights WWE’s continued celebration of its legends, adding an extra layer of excitement to the January 20 episode of RAW. The following week, Bill Goldberg will be at WWE Raw from Atlanta, GA.

WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley recently revealed his remarkable weight loss journey and hinted at the possibility of entering the 2025 Royal Rumble.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Foley shared that he weighed 360 pounds a year ago and set a goal to get down to 280. Despite hitting a peak of 377 pounds, Foley achieved his target, clocking in at 279.9 pounds during a live weigh-in.

He credited his transformation to a combination of healthier eating, consistent workouts, and the use of Wegovy, a weight-loss medication.

“I did it the old-fashioned way. It was really a three-step process: healthier eating, working out, and, I’ll admit, I cheated a bit,” Foley said.

“A doctor suggested Wegovy after seeing me at over 370 pounds. I know some people see it as cheating, but I felt like it leveled the playing field. My strength was gone, my metabolism had tanked, and I was gaining weight every day. I couldn’t even handle walking up a slight incline without needing to rest. I thought, ‘I’m a heart attack waiting to happen.’”

Foley credited DDP Yoga and swimming as key components of his fitness routine, adding that he’s mindful of his age, saying, “I’m not 21 anymore. I can’t jump into things like I did back then. But I feel good—really good.”

Royal Rumble Speculation

The former WWE Champion revealed he participated in Ohio Valley Wrestling’s (OVW) Nightmare Rumble and felt strong after his performance. However, when asked about entering WWE’s Royal Rumble, Foley gave a cryptic response.

“I wouldn’t say I’m not entering the Royal Rumble.”

Foley initially said with a laugh. He later took a call from someone implied to be Triple H. In a playful exchange, Foley hinted at the possibility of a Royal Rumble comeback.

During the call, he joked, “You saw me in the Nightmare Rumble? I’ve lost some weight, yeah. I’ve been working out. Royal Rumble? Let me call you right back.” The clip ended with Triple H’s iconic theme music playing, leaving fans wondering if Foley might indeed make a surprise appearance.

While Mick Foley stopped short of confirming his participation, his improved health and training have reignited speculation among fans about a potential Royal Rumble entry.

Updated List of 2025 Royal Rumble Participants

Ethan Page has issued a bold invitation to WWE legend John Cena, suggesting the two meet in NXT during Cena’s ongoing retirement tour. The challenge follows Page’s recent interaction with another iconic figure, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, during the NXT New Year’s Evil special, where Page proved he’s ready to share the spotlight with some of wrestling’s biggest stars.

Speaking on Busted Open Radio with Bully Ray, Page reflected on his career and emphasized his readiness to take on top-tier talent. Drawing attention to his confidence and ambition, Page didn’t hesitate to call out Cena directly.

“There’s not a single wrestler living that intimidates me,” Page declared. “John Cena, on this retirement tour—hey, stop by NXT, pal. I’ll look you dead in the eyes. We could do something.

There’s not a single living, breathing wrestler that would make me feel anything other than excitement for the opportunity to take their spot and their money.”

Groomed for Greatness

Page also spoke about his growing list of career highlights, including sharing the ring with wrestling legends like Bully Ray, and his desire to continue proving himself at the highest level. “I’ve shared the ring with many Hall of Famers, many big names, many legends, many of the most dangerous men in professional wrestling,” Page said.

“Just one step at a time to reach the top. That man [The Rock] was the top. I was prepared for this. I’ve been prepared for this, and I’ll continue to be prepared for this.”

Ethan Page’s invitation to Cena underlines his confidence in facing wrestling’s biggest names, reinforcing his determination to climb to the top of the industry.

Whether Cena accepts remains to be seen, but Page is clearly ready to seize any opportunity to cement his legacy in the sport.

Lince Dorado has officially returned to WWE, surprising fans at Friday’s NXT live event in Citrus Springs, Florida.

The former Lucha House Party member and 205 Live star had been the subject of speculation in recent weeks, particularly after relinquishing his Lucha Premier Championship.

Known for his high-flying offensive move-set, Dorado had been getting “Lucha Lit” wrestling around the world since his WWE departure in 2021. Now, he’s back – with a dual role. In addition to competing for the developmental brand, Dorado has been hired as a coach for NXT at the Performance Center.

He wrote on Twitter that he’s back with “positive vibes only,” and is looking forward to teaching the next generation of high flyers. He also updated his Twitter bio to reflect his new role as coach.

Dorado’s return aligns with WWE’s continued emphasis on enhancing its developmental system. His deep experience in lucha libre and years with WWE make him a valuable asset in training the next generation of wrestlers, particularly those who specialize in high-flying styles.

WWE Superstar Naomi has been credited with inspiring the historic collaboration between WWE and TNA Wrestling. According to TNA star Jordynne Grace, this partnership would not have been possible without Naomi’s influence and efforts.

As a champion in both promotions, Naomi’s career has bridged two of the biggest names in wrestling. She captured the SmackDown Women’s Championship twice in WWE and went on to win the Knockouts World Championship in TNA Wrestling under her real name, Trinity Fatu.

Her success across both companies has positioned her as a vital figure in fostering this partnership, which could lead to future cross-promotional events and opportunities.

Naomi’s contributions extend beyond the ring, shaping the future of the wrestling industry and paving the way for greater unity between major promotions.

Jordynne Grace: Ultimate X Will Happen At WrestleMania

D-Von Dudley believes Paul Heyman’s habit of doing everything on his own was one of the reasons for the downfall of the original ECW.

The Attitude Era star who worked extensively with both Vince McMahon and Heyman during his career talked about the difference between the two in a video on his new YouTube channel.

While discussing the things he didn’t like about both the bosses, D-Von noted that Paul did not like asking for help even when he knew that he needed it:

“Paul had so much responsibility on his hands, he trusted nobody. Even though he knew he needed help, he was still going to carry the load all by himself. He didn’t care. I think that’s what burned him out.

Probably one of the things that I feel that probably closed the doors of ECW. You got to have that help. You got to be able to put your pride aside and go ‘Hey I need help. Can you help do this? Can you help do that?'”

• D-Von Dudley: I Faced Racism As Soon As I Joined WWE

It Was My Home: D-Von Dudley

According to the wrestling veteran, this is one of the reason for the failures of the original ECW as Heyman burnt himself up while trying to keep the brand going:

“When you’re trying to live up to the hype that ECW created, it’s hard to keep doing it on a regular basis when you don’t have any help. So that was one of the things I wish Paul could have done because maybe the company would have been around, who knows.

But that’s one of the things that I feel that Paul basically I didn’t like about it. I wanted to see ECW survive because it was my home. It was my first home and it was sad to me when it was gone.”

Paul Heyman took over the creative of ECW in 1993. He became the sole owner of the company in 1995 and started it off on the path that changed the wrestling world. The promotion folded due to financial difficulties in 2001, however, as Heyman failed to secure a new TV deal for it before WWE bought it in 2003.

Could UFC fighter Belal Muhammad compete in this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match? According to CM Punk, it’s not out of the question. Backstage at UFC 311, the pair were interviewed by Cathy Kelley. When the WWE interviewer brought up the possibility of Muhammad entering the 2025 Royal Rumble, the fighter responded, “You never know what’s going to happen.” However, if Muhammad does compete, don’t expect an alliance with Punk, who made “no promises” about not tossing him over the top rope on February 1.

Punk has already confirmed his participation in this year’s Royal Rumble match, a contest in which he was the runner-up last year. Despite his decorated wrestling career, Punk has yet to secure a Royal Rumble victory and hopes that this year will finally bring him one step closer to headlining WrestleMania, another feat he’s yet to achieve.

Learn More About CM Punk’s WWE Royal Rumble Past

Belal Muhammad is the latest UFC star to show interest in transitioning to WWE. In recent years, fighters like Conor McGregor have teased a WWE crossover, though McGregor’s multiple controversies make such a move increasingly unlikely. Similarly, Oban Elliot hinted at an appearance at WWE Bash in Berlin last year, but that did not materialize. With WWE and UFC now united under the TKO umbrella, the potential for crossover between the two organizations is greater than ever. Whether Muhammad will step out of the Octagon and into the squared circle on February 1 remains to be seen.

Brooke Hogan, daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, has announced the birth of her twins, Oliver Andrew Oleksy and Molly Gene Oleksy, on January 15, 2025. The former TNA personality shared the joyous news on Instagram, captioning a photo with her newborns, “Our hearts have been made whole by the arrival of these two sweet souls we get to love. God is good.”

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A post shared by Brooke Oleksy (@mizzhogan)

This milestone makes Hulk Hogan a first-time grandfather, adding another chapter to the legacy of one of wrestling’s most iconic families. Fans are already speculating whether the third generation of Hogans might step into the wrestling ring in the decades to come.

Brooke, who served as an on-screen authority figure in TNA Wrestling from 2012 to 2013, has largely stayed out of the spotlight in recent years. However, her father’s influence in professional wrestling continues to draw interest in her personal life.

Brooke married NHL player Steven Oleksy in a private ceremony in Florida in 2022, a union kept secret until late 2023. Oleksy, a Stanley Cup-winning defenseman with the Pittsburgh Penguins, is also an entrepreneur and founder of ESE Hockey. While the couple values their privacy, Oleksy has praised Brooke’s strength and authenticity, calling her the “most authentic person I’ve ever encountered.”

With the Hogan legacy expanding, wrestling fans are left wondering if Oliver and Molly might one day follow in their grandfather’s legendary footsteps. Could we see the third generation of Hogans stepping into the squared circle by 2050? Time will tell.

Drew McIntyre recently reflected on his interactions with CM Punk, offering a candid take on their dynamic both on-screen and off. Speaking openly to Alex McCarthy for the Daily Mail, McIntyre acknowledged his no-holds-barred approach toward Punk during their feud, emphasizing how Punk stood out by handling the pressure without faltering.

“I went completely gangbusters for him,” McIntyre explained, recounting his aggressive tactics, particularly on social media. He clarified that, while he can be limited in what he says on TV, his personal social platforms give him freedom to be unfiltered. Despite his relentless approach, McIntyre admitted Punk remained unfazed:

“I went at him and went at him. And I’ve done that with a couple of people, and they have got a boo boo face. Not that I care, but he didn’t. He ate it like a man and then came back with what he had to say. So I’ll give him that.”

McIntyre also mentioned that WWE did not intervene to tone down his rhetoric, further demonstrating the intensity of their storyline. “The company could have asked me to pull back if they wanted me to, and I’d have said, ‘No, it’s my social.’”

Although McIntyre’s comments hint at mixed feelings toward Punk, he seemed to appreciate Punk’s resilience and ability to engage in the back-and-forth exchange. His remarks offer insight into the complexities of their professional relationship and highlight the impact of their feud.

For more insights from McIntyre, including his thoughts on The Rock and John Cena, check out the full article on Daily Mail.

Drew McIntyre Taunts CM Punk’s Dog Larry With Futurama’s Saddest Scene

Could John Cena’s farewell to in-ring competition see him compete in TNA Wrestling? World Champion Nic Nemeth certainly hopes so. Speaking to The Takedown on SI, Nemeth said that Cena appearing for the promotion would be special, no matter who he worked with.

“As much as I would like to hog it, no matter who was in that moment with him, that would be cool as hell, because he’s done so much for so many.”

Nemeth compared Cena to Hiroshi Tanahashi, who is also on a retirement tour. With “everyone dying to get in the ring” with the icon, Nemeth believes Cena in TNA would be groundbreaking for the promotion.

“It’d be game-changing for [TNA]. It would just help us one more notch at kicking ass, if we got John here on that deal, on that partnership.”

Cena kicked off his farewell tour on WWE Raw’s debut on Netflix by declaring himself for the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match. In addition to the February 1, event, Cena has been announced for March’s Elimination Chamber PLE as well as WrestleMania 41. Several Superstars have put themselves forward as potential opponents, including The Miz, Randy Orton, and Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker.

WWE and TNA have announced a multi-year partnership, meaning fans can’t count out an appearance by John Cena in the Impact Zone. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on John Cena and what will be a massive send-off to the Greatest Of All Time.

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels will have a hero’s welcome when he appears at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event this month in his native San Antonio, Texas. On this week’s SmackDown, it was announced that Michaels will oversee a contract signing between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens at the January 25, event. Owens and Rhodes will hand-over their respective WWE Championships which will be on the line at the Royal Rumble in a ladder match.

Rhodes and Owens have been at odds since WWE Bad Blood, where Owens attacked Cody following the show. Owens has claimed that Rhodes turned on him by agreeing to team with Roman Reigns. The issues between the pair grew uglier after Saturday Night’s Main Event, where Owens delivered a package piledriver to Rhodes after the show.

Jacob Fatu Match Announced For WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

Michaels won’t be afraid to lay down the law in his hometown at Saturday Night’s Main Event. The WWE Hall of Famer already serves as the head of WWE NXT and hasn’t been afraid to put his hands on talent if they cross the line. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from the Heart Break Kid ahead of his exciting appearance at the January 25 special event.

Wade Barrett has been confirmed as the fill-in for Pat McAfee for the January 20th Raw from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

ESPN announced earlier this week that McAfee will be a part of the broadcast team for the College Football National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame, calling the action from inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Due to the ongoing drama over the Raw commentary position, fans wondered who will replace the former NFL star on the show. Barrett then revealed during the latest episode of SmackDown that he’ll be joining Michael Cole on Monday.

• Corey Graves In-Ring Return: From Commentary to Comeback?

WWE made changes to both Raw and Smackdown commentary teams to start off 2025. With McAfee’s return to the company, Michael Cole was put back with the Football star on Monday nights. The duo of Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett who had been on the Red Brand were moved to Friday nights.

These changes left Cole’s existing partner Corey Graves in an awkward position. Despite being only behind the EVP in experience among the mentioned names, Graves was forced to return to NXT instead. The Savior of Misbehavior was visibly unhappy with what he considered a demotion.

He was taken off TV by the company after Corey took to social media to express his frustrations in now-deleted tweets. Graves’ status remains very much in the air since then with no updates on his return to TV.

WWE has announced a match between Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre for Monday’s episode of Raw as well as an appearance from JBL. The New Day are also expected to compete at the show but their opponents have not been confirmed.

• Jim Ross On Corey Graves: We Choose This Life

A new match has been added to the lineup for WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event special, as Jacob Fatu is set to face Braun Strowman in singles competition.

The announcement follows a confrontation on this week’s episode of SmackDown, where Braun returned to back up LA Knight during an altercation with Fatu and Tama Tonga. This will mark the first-ever singles meeting between Fatu and Strowman, making it the most high-profile singles match of Jacob Fatu’s WWE career to date.

WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. The event will air live on NBC at 8 PM ET.

Updated Card:

• WWE World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER vs. Jey Uso
• WWE Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker vs. Sheamus
• Jacob Fatu vs. Braun Strowman

The WWE on Peacock schedule previously revealed that there are Saturday’s Night Main Event specials planned for May 24th and July 12th. The latter of which is slated to go head-to-head with AEW All In: Texas at Globe Life Field. WWE will also present the Royal Rumble PLE on February 1st.

The anticipation for Charlotte Flair’s WWE return continues to grow, with recent teasers and appearances sparking speculation. During this week’s SmackDown, a promo highlighted Flair’s star power with visuals of private jets and yachts, emphasizing her dominant presence in WWE.

Flair has been absent from WWE since December 2023 after suffering a severe knee injury in a match against Asuka on SmackDown. The injury, which involved a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus, required surgery in January 2024. Since then, Flair has kept fans updated on her recovery journey through social media, sharing training videos and photos.

Flair attended Tuesday’s WWE NXT and posted a picture alongside NXT Tag Team Champions Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend, captioning it, “Some girls want to be a princess when they grow up, I wanted to be in a bad b**ch girl gang.” The post has fueled speculation that Flair could lead a faction upon her return. A source at the WWE Performance Center who saw Flair training in the ring tell SEScoops she looked great and is ready to wrestle, pending the right scenario to get her back on television.

While WWE has not officially confirmed a return date, her recent activity, combined with the 2025 Royal Rumble just weeks away, suggests Flair’s comeback may coincide with the high-stakes event.

What Fans Can Expect from Charlotte Flair’s WWE Return

WWE crowned new #1 contenders for the Tag Team Titles on this week’s SmackDown. Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin of the Motor City Machine Guns defeated Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo of Legado Del Fantasma. With this victory, they have secured a future opportunity at the WWE Tag Team Championships, currently held by Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa of #DIY.

The Motor City Machine Guns overcame the challenge despite interference attempts by Pretty Deadly’s Kit Wilson and Elton Prince.

After achieving individual success in NXT, Gargano and Ciampa transitioned to WWE’s main roster. In 2023, WWE teased a potential reunion of #DIY on Monday Night Raw. When they officially reunited, fans welcomed them back enthusiastically, eager to see the duo reclaim tag team glory.

The Motor City Machine Guns previously held the WWE Tag Team Titles before losing them to #DIY on the December 6th episode of SmackDown. A rematch on the January 3rd episode of SmackDown ended in a no-contest, leaving fans eager for a decisive conclusion.

The journey of #DIY is one of persistence, chemistry, and emotional storytelling. Their rise from NXT to WWE Tag Team Champions has been a compelling narrative, filled with memorable moments and fan support.

It remains unclear when Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin will receive their rematch for the WWE Tag Team Championships.

Braun Strowman has made his return to WWE television, appearing on Friday’s episode of SmackDown to make a dramatic save.

The segment began with Jacob Fatu delivering an in-ring promo, following Solo Sikoa’s decision not to address his recent loss to Roman Reigns during the Raw on Netflix premiere. As tensions escalated, LA Knight stormed the ring to confront the heels but was quickly overwhelmed by the numbers advantage. Just when the situation seemed dire, Strowman made his return to even the odds and rescue Knight.

WWE incorporated Strowman’s real-life struggles into the storyline, explaining that he had been recovering from a brutal attack by The Bloodline. Strowman had been sidelined at the start of 2025 due to a severe illness.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Strowman revealed that he had been battling a serious health issue, which forced him into recovery at a hotel. The illness took a toll on his health, causing him to lose over 30 pounds in just one week. Before his return, Strowman had not wrestled since late December during a SmackDown live event.

Jordynne Grace is confident that one of TNA’s most iconic matches will come to WrestleMania as part of the promotion’s multi-year partnership with WWE. On X, Grace was so confident that Ultimate X will take place at a future WrestleMania that she encouraged fans to bookmark her post.

Ultimate X sees a prize, typically a championship or red X suspended 15 feet above the ring by two crossing cables. The winner is the first person to take possession of the hung object. Ladders are banned from being used to climb but can be used as weapons.

The match debuted in 2003 with Chris Sabin, Michael Shane, and Frankie Kazarian battling for the X-Division Championship. Sabin, who debuted in WWE last year alongside Alex Shelley, holds the record for the most Ultimate X match appearances (18) and most wins (8.) Last year, NXT’s Riley Osborne competed in Ultimate X at TNA Emergence but failed to get the win.

Tessa Blanchard Talks WWE-TNA Partnership (Exclusive)

WWE and TNA Wrestling

The partnership between WWE and TNA was announced this week, promising years of exciting crossover at weekly TV tapings and Premium Live Events. Grace has played a pivotal role in TNA and WWE working together as she entered the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble last January. In May, Grace returned to WWE and compete for the NXT Women’s Championship at June’s Battleground event.

This weekend, TNA will host its Genesis event and have teased NXT involvement for the show. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on this exciting partnership between WWE and what was once the promotion’s biggest rival.

What WWE Stands To Benefit from the TNA Partnership

This week, Bayley Humphrey went viral among wrestling fans as pictures of the young athlete in action were shared online. With her jacked physique and black attire, fans have already ben comparing her to WWE staples including Rhea Ripley and the late Chyna.

Here’s all you need to know on Bayley Humphrey.

A native of Arizona, Bayley Humphrey was invited to join WWE’s fourth NIL (Next in Line) class following a collegiate career in acrobatics and tumbling. After competing in artistic gymnastics, Humphrey transitioned to acrobatic gymnastics during her senior year of high school, paving the way for her to attend Baylor University. There, she graduated in 2024 as a four-time National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association (NCATA) national champion.

Bayley graduated with a degree in health science studies but is now ready to make an impact in the ring. Humphrey’s debut came as part of the tapings for WWE LFG: Legends and Future Greats which will see young prospects trained by veterans of the squeed circle. The show is set to debut in early 2025.

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A post shared by Bayley Humphrey? (@_bayyyleyyy_)

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A post shared by Bayley Humphrey? (@_bayyyleyyy_)

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A post shared by AJ Amrhein (@danipalmer_wwe)

The buzz around Humphrey certainly bodes well for the young athlete, who seeks to etch her name in WWE’s history books. You can follow Bayley Hymphrey on Instagram for more.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Humphrey and WWE LFG as the next chapter of upcoming WWE Superstars will soon be on screens.

Find Out All You Need To Know On WWE LFG

Logan Paul, KSI, and their Prime Hydration brand have pledged over $6.25 million in donations to support California wildfire victims. So far, 1.7 million bottles of Prime Hydration, worth nearly $5 million, have been distributed to firefighters, shelters, first responders, and over 700 food banks in Los Angeles County. An additional $1.5 million worth of donations is expected to be delivered by the end of the week, according to a spokesperson for Prime.

In addition to the efforts by Paul and KSI, several Hollywood celebrities have stepped up to assist in the relief efforts. Stars like Tyler Sebago, Bella Thorne, and Benny Blanco have actively participated in transporting supplies to areas of Los Angeles County most in need. Speaking about his involvement, Sebago expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute, saying, “It’s really up to all of us to be a net positive… and leave our communities better than we found them.”

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has publicly acknowledged the generosity of Prime Hydration and its volunteers through social media, sharing gratitude for their substantial contributions to the ongoing wildfire relief efforts.

Chelsea Green has explained why traditional babyface and heel roles don’t work in 2025.

With fans becoming smarter about every aspect of the wrestling industry, it’s gotten much harder to sort talents into traditional babyface and heel roles. The modern era instead increasingly features babyfaces with split opinions of fans with heels that get cheered more and more.

The longest-reigning Women’s US Champion is an example of this change in dynamic. While she’s slotted into the role of a villain, her entertaining character and real-life story have led to her getting some of the biggest cheers on WWE shows in recent times. This popularity is the reason the company has chosen her as the Inaugural champion.

The WWE star was asked if she finds it hard to get cheered as a heel during a recent interview with The Law. Chelsea Green explained that for her, it’s harder to see the babyface against her not getting the reaction they deserve:

“So at first it wasn’t challenging. When I was paired with Sonya [Deville], I felt like it was good. As it evolved to more of like a comedy fun role and when they put me with Piper [Niven], that’s when it became a little more difficult. I’ve seen it get more difficult week by week. Now at this point, the fans are so smart. I’m sorry but you just cannot tell the fans how to react.

If they have found that they like somebody or that someone has worked hard and they’ve seen someone put blood sweat and tears into this industry, they’re just not going to boo you. I got a quick little boo when I said something about Piper the other day in my inauguration speech. I got a little boo so that was interesting.

I actually, I feel worse for my opponent. It’s not necessarily about me, it’s about my opponent not getting the reaction that they deserve as a babyface. That makes me feel uncomfortable. Because as a former babyface I wouldn’t want to be in that position.

So that’s where I struggle. That’s where I’ve kind of spoken to the writers ‘How can we write some things in that will rub maybe the crowd the wrong way and we can turn this in our favor.’ But at the end of the day the WWE universe and pro wrestling fans in general are, they’re just smart. They’re just smart and they want what they want. We gave them what they wanted and that was me as champion. So now I’m not sure how we take that back.”

• Chelsea Green Feels Safe, Supported & Equal In Triple H’s WWE

That’s Not What Fans Look Like: Chelsea Green

While discussing how hard it is to get a traditional babyface over in the modern era, Chelsea Green suggested that the entertaining heel-to-babyface route is the necessity of the time. She explained that fans today find it hard to cheer for a babyface they can’t relate to as opposed to the older times:

“They love an underdog story. Don’t we all? At the end of the day I’ve got to say like as a fan as well I don’t necessarily love to see this perfect human with a perfect body and perfect gear and a perfect speech go out and beat up a bad guy who actually isn’t perfect. There’s just like, there’s something kind of ‘blah’ about that.

So I think us seeing these turns from heels into baby faces – maybe that’s just the way we have to go you know. Maybe the bad guy are the perfectly groomed superhumans. Because that’s not what the fans look like. That’s not what the fans sit down and think ‘Oh I could be that guy’ That’s not realistic. Some of the people in WWE are superhuman.”

• Chelsea Green Open to Rematch With Penta In WWE: “Never Say Never”

WWE will host a Premium Live Event in Paris, France this year, WWE President Nick Khan confirmed this week. During a fireside chat Khan confirmed the Paris PLE will take place, though the name and date of the show have yet to be publicly disclosed.

The show will be WWE’s second Premium Live Event in the country and follows on from last year’s Backlash event in Lyon. The show received positive reviews from fans, with the loud, rauccous crowd inside the LDLC Arena proving to be a highlight of the night.

WWE’s Paris PLE will be the latest example of the promotion taking its biggest monthly events outside the United States. Since 2022, WWE has grown more accustomed to hosting events internationally with shows taking place in the UK, Australia, and Germany. WWE continues to host events in Saudi Arabia, with next year’s Royal Rumble PLE set to take place in the middle eastern nation.

The wrestling world has been abuzz with excitement following the announcement of a groundbreaking collaboration between WWE and TNA Wrestling. Wrestling stars took to social media to share their thoughts on the unexpected partnership.

WWE Superstar Bayley joked, “Finally, my TNA Gut Check tryout has paid off!!!” referencing TNA’s developmental program from years past.

Santino Marella, known for his comedic persona, chimed in with, “This feels so right!!” hinting at the potential nostalgia and excitement surrounding the deal.

Mickie James, who has deep ties to both WWE and TNA, expressed her enthusiasm with, “Ooooh… I like this,” adding fuel to the growing speculation about what this collaboration might entail.

Zachary Wentz, currently a part of WWE NXT, delivered a series of humorous tweets. In one, he asked, “Yo, so when y’all gonna let me tag with @gigidolin_wwe at TNA? We do mixed tags over here! Pleasseeeeee!” In another, he quipped about his history with TNA, saying, “I do believe @TheTreyMiguel and I are still the number one contenders for the NXT Tag Titles right?”

Former WWE Champion John ‘Bradshaw’ Layfield (JBL) also reacted in his signature style, tweeting, “I guess I should pack an extra clothesline for Dallas next week,” likely hinting at potential cross-promotional appearances.

Meanwhile, A.J. Francis joked about the unpredictability of the wrestling world, saying, “When you walk in the back door after they kicked you out the front…”

Xia Brookside, a former NXT UK star, raised eyebrows with her cryptic tweet, “Am I going to @WWENXT?!”

The possibility of talent swaps between WWE and TNA has fans speculating about dream matches and new opportunities for wrestlers across both rosters.

Nathan Frazer kept it simple yet intriguing with, “The possibilities…”

What the Deal Means for Wrestling Fans

The WWE-TNA deal represents a significant shift in the wrestling landscape, creating opportunities for cross-promotional events, dream matchups, and shared storytelling. Both WWE and TNA have rich histories and passionate fanbases, and this partnership could bridge the gap between the two companies in unprecedented ways.

What WWE Stands To Benefit from the TNA Partnership