Former WWE General Manager Teddy Long is skeptical about the possibility of WWE bringing back Miro (formerly Rusev) or Malakai Black following their rumored AEW releases.

Speaking on WrestleBinge, Long suggested that WWE has moved on from these talents and is unlikely to reach back for them.

“I think Rusev has had his day with WWE. I don’t think they’re going to take him back,” Long said.

He acknowledged that Miro was given opportunities during his WWE run but questioned what the company could do with him now.

“They gave him a push… I don’t know if it was his attitude or something else, but what are you going to do with him after all this? How are you going to repackage him?”

As for Malakai Black, Long believes WWE is more focused on building fresh talent rather than bringing back former stars.

“Bringing in somebody who was already in your company looks like you’re reaching back to pull some, and they’re not outstanding superstar talent,” he explained.

While he praised their in-ring ability, he didn’t see them as major draws WWE would be eager to re-sign.

Once They Go To AEW…

Long also took a shot at AEW’s use of former WWE wrestlers, suggesting that many of them are just collecting a paycheck rather than advancing their careers.

“Once they get to AEW, they’re working for a payday and that’s it… They’re not going to get being creative, that’s for sure.”

With WWE reportedly shifting its focus toward homegrown talent and younger stars, Long’s comments align with the company’s recent booking philosophy.

While surprises are always possible in pro wrestling, his skepticism raises doubts about Miro or Malakai Black finding their way back to WWE anytime soon.

Vince McMahon is a known workaholic and there are a lot of stories about how the retired wrestling promoter almost never went to sleep. Former WWE employee Teddy Long got to experience the boss’ relentless routine firsthand on multiple occasions while working in the company.

The former WWE Chairman was recently spotted at the Superbowl event alongside his son Shane McMahon and The Undertaker. A lot of people noted that McMahon looked to be in good shape physically despite his age.

Teddy Long talked about this Vince sighting in a new WrestleBinge video. Recalling his time as the SmackDown General Manager, the former WWE official discussed how Mr. McMahon went to gym at crazy times:

“Well, one thing about Vince, and I know this for a fact, he stays in the gym. Okay? I’ll tell you a story about Vince maybe you guys don’t even know. Sometimes at night after he would leave the TV, which means around midnight, 1 o’clock, he would fly his plane into the next town. And when they got into that town, it may have been 2 o’clock or 2:30 in the morning.

Vince got right out of that plane, got with his trainer [who] was already in the town and made arrangements to get the gym open. So when Vince landed, he got off that plane at 2:30 in the morning, got with his trainer, picked him up and they went straight to the gym. That’s where he went. The next morning, he would get up, he would go back to the hotel, he didn’t sleep. Next morning, he would get up, be the first one at TV.”

• Baron Corbin Reveals Immediate Reaction To WWE Release

Sleep Is My Enemy

When asked if he ever saw Vince McMahon taking a nap backstage, Teddy Long replied negatively. He then discussed how the former WWE executive not only never seemed to rest himself but he hated seeing others sleep as well:

“I remember one time at WrestleMania, I know I left him at the Hall of Fame. He was the last one there. This was 2 o’clock in the morning, we got out of there like real late one time.

The next morning about 9 o’clock we had to be back and the first person I see is Vince. So I waited to see if he was in a good mood and everything. So he spoke to me that let me know he’s in a good mood and I asked him, I said, “Have you been to sleep?” And he said to me that sleep was his enemy. Michael Cole told me one time.

I was on Vince’s plane and Michael Cole sat right next to me and he told me ‘Do not go to sleep on this plane unless Vince goes to sleep.’ One time they went overseas and they went with Big Show. Big Show went to sleep after they took this water bed off the plane. They put it wherever they landed, they put it somewhere. Big Show got on the water bed and went to sleep. Well, Vince came by, seen him, stuck a hole in it, let all the water out.”

• Matt Hardy Reveals Unthinkable Gift He Once Received From Wild Fan

Fans were able to take out their frustrations on a replica Dominik Mysterio at the recent Daytona 500. As part of the massive racing event, those in attendance were given the opportunity to hit the makeshift Dirty Dom with a steel chair. Not only that, but fans were able to create their own unique championship entrance with a makeshift stage of Monday Night Raw on Netflix.

The Dominik dummy certainly caught attention online from both fans familiar with his dastardly deeds and from non wrestling fans. One fan on X (formerly known as Twitter) called this a perfect example of sponsor activation and added that “I’m not into WWE and I think this is fantastic!” Another non fan added that “even I’d be in line for this” and would love to see the “chair goes through the mf.”

WWE’s role at the Daytona 500 continues to demonstrate the company’s mainstream appeal, an appeal that has only grown with the Netflix deal. With fans and non-fans alike ready to pummel Dominik Mysterio, the Judgment Day star may want to be careful out in public, especially if he’s at any future Nascar events.

The Undertaker has revealed which current WWE stars he likes to watch.

The Dead Man recently had an interview with Shak Wrestling to promote WWE LFG. During the interview, he talked about the stacked main event scene in the company currently and how there are a lot of guys reaching for that ‘brass ring.’

When asked if there is anyone in particular that stands out to him, The Undertaker once again named Gunther. He reiterated his comments about how there is no wasted movement with the Ring General. The WWE Hall of Famer explained that every move the world champion does means something and his character work is equally as impressive:

“He believes in who he is, and in turn, the audience believes that’s who it is. And I haven’t really seen him ever where he was that far different than what you see on TV, even backstage. Which you know me I appreciate that more so than anything. I like Gunther.”

• Matt Hardy Reveals Unthinkable Gift He Once Received From Wild Fan

I Love Watching Jacob: The Undertaker

The wrestling veteran also gave a nod to the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble winner Jey Uso before discussing how Jacob Fatu has a bright future ahead:

“Obviously, Jey Uso’s ascent. Jacob [Fatu], he hasn’t even scratched the surface. Dude, I love watching Jacob. I mean, he’s got that thing. He’s got it. When he’s on TV you want to see what he’s doing. And so again, he’s another one of those that just scratched the surface to where he has the potential to go.”

The Undertaker later talked about John Cena’s retirement tour. He said that not everyone deserves such a tour and explained how Cena’s retirement will change wrestling farewells. You can check out his comments on the matter here.

• Baron Corbin Reveals Immediate Reaction To WWE Release

A former WWF Women’s Champion & sister of WWE Hall of Famer is set to make her final wrestling appearance at an upcoming convention in July.

TMart Promotions recently sent out a press release regarding their upcoming The Gathering VI convention from Hilten University Palace in Charlotte NC. They announced that former WWF star Rockin Robin will be making her last wrestling appearance at the event from July 30 to August 3:

“This talent has informed me that this will be the Final Appearance of her career. So this will be your last opportunity to get your Autographs or Photo ops.. We welcome her for the first time ever to the Hilton and her final Appearance. Former WWF Women’s World Champion Rockin Robin”

• Baron Corbin Reveals Immediate Reaction To WWE Release

Robin is a retired professional wrestler who was active in the business from 1986 to 1992. Real name Robin Denise Smith, the wrestling veteran is the half-sister of legendary Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts.

Hailing from Charlotte itself, she had a stint with the then-WWF between 1987 and 1990, after the company restarted its women’s division. Rockin Robin defeated Sensational Sherri in October 1988 to win the WWF Women’s World Title. She held on to the title for the remainder of her WWF stint and the belt was retired upon her exit from the company in 1990.

After leaving the company, Robin had multiple stints in Japan and she even formed a tag team with Wendi Richter before retiring from in-ring action in 1992. She was inducted into the Women’s Wrestling Hall of Fame last year.

• Watch: Tony Khan Booed In Australia After Grand Slam Venue Debacle

Jordynne Grace made a dramatic surprise appearance at WWE NXT Vengeance Day on February 15, 2025. She emerged at the conclusion of the event to confront NXT Women’s Champion Giulia and NXT Women’s North American Champion Stephanie Vaquer.

The confrontation took place following the main event, where Giulia successfully defended her NXT Women’s Championship in a fatal four-way match against Bayley, Roxanne Perez, and Cora Jade. Earlier in the night, Vaquer had captured the NXT Women’s North American Title from Fallon Henley in the opening contest.

As both champions were in the ring, Grace’s music played and she made her way to the ring. The show concluded with all three women facing off, setting up potential future matchups in NXT’s women’s division.

Grace’s appearance marks another chapter in the ongoing partnership between WWE and TNA. Her transition from TNA to WWE has been significant, particularly following her reign as TNA Knockouts Champion prior to signing with WWE.

The moment concluded NXT Vengeance Day, with Grace’s presence adding new possibilities to both women’s championship pictures.

Former AEW star Ricky Starks made his WWE NXT debut during the second hour of this past Tuesday’s show. Now, he has confirmed that he will be appearing again this week.

In a video shared on Twitter, Starks announced that he would be signing his official NXT contract on the February 18th edition of NXT.

“The hottest free agent shocked the world last week when I appeared on NXT. And tonight, it’s Vengeance Day, and I’m going to be watching on Peacock. And I know you probably are wondering what’s next? Well, I got the answers for you. This Tuesday, live on NXT, in the middle of that ring, I’m going to be signing my official NXT contract, and then you’re going to have the absolute truth from the man himself.”

Starks made his debut by appearing in the crowd, where he was instantly recognized by fans. Acknowledging their reaction, he stated that it was clear they knew exactly who he was. He then declared that if NXT represents the future of wrestling, it needs a superstar of the future. He added that if NXT is the highest brand, it requires the highest free agent, vowing to turn the place upside down.

Previously, Starks had requested his release from AEW, but CEO Tony Khan reportedly refused to grant it. It was widely believed that he would have to wait out the remainder of his contract before pursuing other opportunities. However, that situation recently changed when Starks was officially granted his release.

WWE officially announced on this week’s episode of SmackDown that Charlotte Flair will challenge Tiffany Stratton for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 41.

The match was set up after Stratton retained her title by disqualification against Nia Jax on SmackDown when Candice LeRae interfered. A brawl broke out involving Stratton, Jax, LeRae, and Hall of Famer Trish Stratus, who was ringside. Jax and LeRae ultimately left both Stratton and Stratus laid out.

As the Women’s Champion was down in the ring, Flair entered and declared that she had chosen Stratton as her opponent for WrestleMania 41.

According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, Flair’s Royal Rumble victory and her selection of Stratton as her opponent had been planned for some time. In fact, the plan for Charlotte vs. Tiffany Stratton has reportedly been in place since December.

Flair earned her title shot by winning the 2025 Royal Rumble. This is a major match for both competitors—Charlotte is a 14-time Women’s Champion and a seasoned WrestleMania veteran, while Tiffany Stratton is a rising star who won the title earlier this year.

WrestleMania 41 will be a two-night event, taking place on Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

WWE RAW Superstar Chad Gable has embraced a new chapter in his career as a mentor to younger talent, particularly within his stable, American Made. In a recent appearance on The Jay Ferruggia Show, Gable reflected on his evolving role within WWE.

“When these younger guys come to me for advice, I know I need to give them my full attention,” Gable explained. “People did that for me when I was coming up, and now it’s my turn to pay it forward.”

The transition to mentor has brought unexpected growth in Gable’s own approach to teaching.

“What’s really special about these relationships is how they’ve changed me,” he noted. “When they come with questions, I find myself being more thoughtful and deliberate with my responses, moving beyond just giving the expected answers.”

The shift in his status became apparent to Gable over the past year and a half, as he found himself increasingly sought out for guidance.

“There was this moment when I realized more of the roster was coming to me for advice, and I thought, ‘Wait – when did I become the old guy?'”

While the realization caught him by surprise, Gable has found fulfillment in his role as a mentor. His experience exemplifies WWE’s tradition of veteran performers helping to develop the next generation of talent, continuing a cycle that has long been vital to the company’s success.

Seth Rollins, a mainstay in WWE for over 14 years, is beginning to think about his long-term future beyond the ring. While still performing at a high level, Rollins has revealed that he is in the early stages of discussions about a potential backstage role in WWE, whether in an executive or creative capacity.

During an interview with Bloomberg’s Kim Bhasin at Super Bowl LIX Radio Row, Rollins discussed his post-wrestling aspirations.

“Someone’s gonna have to run that place eventually… I like to fancy myself as someone who might be interested in that,” he said, acknowledging that he wants to learn more about the business side of WWE.

However, he clarified that these conversations are still in their early stages.

At 38 years old, Rollins believes he is in his prime but is beginning to see the wrestling industry from a new perspective.

“My mental and my physical are kind of locked in right now where my physical hasn’t declined too much, and my mental side is really on the rise,” he explained.

While he remains focused on his current role as an in-ring competitor, he is open to exploring opportunities within WWE management in the future.

Beyond WWE, Rollins also has aspirations in sports media. A passionate football fan, he expressed interest in working as an NFL commentator, particularly for the Chicago Bears.

“My ultimate goal is to be in the broadcast booth and call Chicago Bears games on Sundays,” he shared.

For now, Rollins’ focus remains on competition. His next match takes place on the February 17 episode of Monday Night Raw, where he will face Finn Bálor. The winner will claim the final spot in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match at the upcoming Premium Live Event, joining a stacked field that includes John Cena, CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, Logan Paul, and Damian Priest.

While his in-ring career is far from over, Rollins is already looking ahead, ensuring that when the time comes, he remains a key figure in WWE’s future.

WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has established himself as a keen talent evaluator through decades of experience, his successful Texas-based Reality of Wrestling school, and his current role as a coach on WWE LFG.

In a recent interview with TV Insider‘s Scott Fishman, Booker identified two NXT performers he believes are ready for WWE’s main roster.

Jacy Jane

Jayne has impressed throughout her NXT tenure, from her work with Toxic Attraction to her ongoing singles career. According to Booker T, she possesses all the necessary tools to make an immediate impact on either Raw or SmackDown.

“I think Jacy Jayne has been such a role player in NXT for quite some time. I’ve always thought she was main roster ready,” Booker T said. “I do feel like she is like a player-coach at the same time.”

Fallon Henley

The WWE legend also highlighted Fallon Henley as another NXT talent primed for advancement.

“Fallon Henley is someone else who could be on the main roster,” he noted. “I think if we lose her… man, do we want to lose her right now? It’s one of those type of things.”

This assessment carries significant weight given Booker T’s proven eye for talent. He has mentored numerous successful performers, including Roxanne Perez, whom he considers his “star pupil.”

Roxanne Perez

Speaking about Perez, Booker said,

“She has excelled and exceeded all expectations. She’s a household name now. She is a star.”

Beyond his work with NXT talent, Booker T is currently featured on WWE LFG, A&E’s new developmental competition series premiering February 16.

The show offers viewers an inside look at the demanding journey to becoming a WWE superstar, with Booker T joining fellow legends The Undertaker, Mickie James, and Bubba Ray Dudley as mentors.

Given his extensive experience and demonstrated ability to identify future stars, Booker T’s endorsements of Jayne and Henley deserve serious consideration from both fans and WWE management.

The Undertaker Calls Out Rising WWE Talent: “He Thinks He Has All the Answers”

WWE has made another significant change to its creative team, with former D-Generation X member Road Dogg (Brian James) stepping into the role of co-lead writer for SmackDown. According to PWInsider, James will work alongside John Swikata, who was promoted to lead writer in June 2024.

This marks another chapter in James’ evolving role within WWE’s corporate structure. After serving as a producer from 2014 to 2022, he had previously held the position of lead writer for SmackDown. He briefly departed the company in 2022 due to the demanding schedule under then-CEO Vince McMahon, but returned later that year as Senior Vice President of Live Events.

In his SVP role, James has been responsible for overseeing the creative direction of WWE’s live events, maintaining a biweekly office presence while visiting selected live shows monthly. This latest appointment suggests a further expansion of his creative influence within the company.

The writing team’s leadership now combines James’ veteran wrestling experience with Swikata’s proven track record as a longtime member of WWE’s creative staff. Swikata, who replaced Ryan Callahan, has worked his way up through the ranks, moving from senior writer to his current position as lead writer.

Tiffany Stratton is fully embracing the WWE Universe’s excitement over her dynamic with Rhea Ripley, as fans have dubbed them “Strapley.” The reigning WWE Women’s Champion recently spoke about the pairing and even floated the idea of a style swap with Ripley, imagining the dark and dominant Women’s World Champion in her signature pink.

Stratton on the ‘Strapley’ Phenomenon

Stratton discussed the growing buzz around “Strapley” during interviews with DS for Ring The Belle and Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez. She acknowledged that fans created the name, and she immediately found it appealing.

“The internet did! Someone said ‘Strapley,’ and I was like, that’s kind of cool!” she shared on RTB.

Stratton’s chemistry with Ripley gained attention when the two shared the ring before the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event. Their contrasting personas—Ripley’s dark, intense presence and Stratton’s glamorous, self-proclaimed “Center of the Universe” energy—have intrigued fans.

Freaky Friday: Ripley in Pink and Stratton in Back

Taking things a step further, Stratton suggested a “Freaky Friday” scenario where she and Ripley swap aesthetics. She firmly believes Ripley could pull off her signature pink, while she has already shown she can rock all black.

“I definitely see that in our future,” Stratton said on Unlikely. “I feel like pink would look so good on Rhea. And I feel like I can rock black. Like, I’ve rocked it before. I actually rocked it this past Friday. And I feel like I looked pretty good in black. So, I definitely see that in our future. You have to stay tuned for that as well.”

WWE has a history of incorporating social media-driven pairings into its programming. The contrast between Ripley’s dominant, goth-inspired character and Stratton’s ultra-glam persona makes for a compelling on-screen dynamic.

Baron Corbin has revealed his issue with the way his WWE release came about.

The former US Champion was one of the surprise departures from the company in recent months. He was considered the ultimate utility player so people were shocked when the officials decided not to renew his deal at the end of 2024.

The 40-year-old opened up about the end of his 13-year run with the company during a recent appearance on Busted Open Radio. Revealing his immediate reaction to the release, Baron Corbin said that he did not panic:

“I was always smart with my money, so I didn’t hit the panic button of like, ‘Oh no, how am I gonna pay my bills?’ It was like, I clicked right into, I think in November is when they told me, ‘Hey, we’re not gonna renew.’

And I was like, ‘All right, let’s go. Next step. Let’s see what I got.’ I’ve been trying to create other stuff whether it be in the food world, I want to get in horror movies. I want to do some fun stuff with that. So I was excited, like right out the gate. I didn’t have the panic.”

• Booker T Discusses Working With Corey Graves After Recent Controversy

My Feelings Were Hurt: Baron Corbin

This is not to say that Baron Corbin was not upset with his release. He has previously implied that there is a particular person behind the scenes who wanted him gone. During the interview, Corbin confirmed that the person in question was not Triple H. Though he was bummed that the news was given to him by Talent Relations, instead of it coming from the current creative head:

“I was bummed. I think my feelings were hurt a little bit sadly enough because of everything I’ve given to the company for 13 years. Getting called on a Thursday, ‘Hey, we need you here tomorrow. We know you were supposed to be off this weekend.’ or leaving for my family vacation, eight months ago when we were in Spain on a family vacation, to fly to Scotland to do a match.

I was always a company guy and put them first. Then to get a call from TR that we’re not gonna do it. I think it would have hurt my feelings less maybe if Hunter had called and been like, ‘Hey man, this is where we’re at’ or whatever. But again, I don’t think he played that much of a role in it. So I don’t know. I think that was my issue.”

• New Evidence In Jade Cargill Case Implicates Raw Tag Team In Mystery Attack

The Undertaker has never been one to sugarcoat things, and his recent comments about WWE newcomer BJ Ray prove just that. In an interview with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri, The Phenom weighed in on a heated moment from WWE LFG, where Bubba Ray Dudley clashed with the young talent over his approach to the business.

The Undertaker, who serves as a coach on the show, made it clear that BJ Ray still has a lot to learn, despite being a Duke wrestling alum.

“He’s got a ton of personality, but I think he’s going to outwork himself,” he said. “He’s one of those people who thinks they have all the answers and doesn’t know one of the questions.”

The Deadman didn’t question BJ Ray’s ambition, but he did warn that confidence without humility can be a dangerous mix.

“I think he just believes, ‘I’m going to garner attention and people are going to notice me.’ But what ends up happening is he rubs people the wrong way. He’s a minnow swimming with sharks, and it’s not pretty.”

The Undertaker’s words reflect a long-standing truth in WWE—star power alone isn’t enough. To make it in the industry, talent must be paired with respect, patience, and a willingness to learn from veterans.

WWE LFG offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at this challenging journey, premiering February 16th at 8/7c on A&E. The show follows aspiring superstars as they navigate the grueling world of WWE, featuring exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage, and the return of WWE Rivals immediately afterward.

For decades, The Undertaker has been a cornerstone of WWE, witnessing the rise and fall of countless superstars. In a recent interview with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri, he reflected on the competitive nature of WWE’s main event scene and what it takes to truly stand out.

Looking back at the Attitude Era, The Undertaker acknowledged that breaking through to the top has never been easy.

“Stone Cold had that number one spot—nobody can deny that,” he said. “And it is what it is. It was what it was. But that was still motivation for everybody underneath him. Everybody was reaching for that brass ring.”

He emphasized that frustration is part of the journey, but sitting back and complaining won’t change anything.

“Sometimes you have to wait, but you have to be prepared. You can’t sit back and say, ‘Oh man, I got overlooked.’ You have to look at what you’re doing, be able to evolve, take chances, and never be content.”

The Undertaker believes this relentless mindset is what separates legends from those who fade away.

“Regardless of whether I ever achieved the top spot while Steve was there, my goal was always to get there. That’s the mindset you have to have. You just can’t let frustration overtake you.”

As WWE continues to evolve, The Undertaker sees a hunger in today’s roster that reminds him of the past. For rising stars, his message is clear—work harder than everyone else and seize every opportunity.

Fans can watch WWE’s next generation put this philosophy to the test in WWE LFG, premiering February 16th at 8/7c on A&E. The series takes viewers inside the world of WWE’s rising talent, featuring exclusive content, interviews, and never-before-seen footage.

The Undertaker has opened up about John Cena’s retirement tour.

The Dead Man recently had an interview with Shakiel Mahjouri to promote the new WWE LFG show. He talked about things such as the current main event scene in WWE, the future of stars such as Gunther and Jacob Fatu and more.

The experience of Taker on the last leg of his career was very different than Cena as he went back and forth on retirement for multiple years before finally calling it a career. During the interview, the wrestling veteran was asked what are some of the signs that wrestlers should look for to make the decision at the right time. The Phenom explained that you have to regularly assess your physical condition and love for the business:

“You have to constantly assess where you’re at physically. Although we have the ability to push through pain, you have to realize ‘How important is this still to me?’ There’s a time period that Cena did everything. He was on every house show. He was on every pay-per-view. He did every meet and greet. He did all the make-a-wish. And he wanted it. He was like ‘I want it all’ and now he’s had this 20-year run or however long his run was.

Now he is trying to branch out and to do other things. So you have to, you can’t mail it in. You can’t do this business the way it needs to be done if you’re not 100% committed. I think that’s where he’s at. Like I know in John’s soul he loves this business, just like Rock loves the business but there’s this thing – you want to test the water to different things and challenge yourself in a different way.”

• Booker T Discusses Working With Corey Graves After Recent Controversy

This Might Be The Prototype: The Undertaker

The Undertaker had multiple WrestleMania matches which he considered to be the end of his in-ring career but he was always convinced by Vince McMahon to come back. The WWE Hall of Famer finally hanged his boot after competing in the highly praised boneyard match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36.

Speaking about the approach of John Cena who is spending the whole of 2025 going to different places one last time, The Last Outlaw expressed the belief that it’ll become a prototype for other wrestlers who want to retire:

“I think it’s great that they’re doing this tour the way they are. I don’t think everybody deserves that. I think Cena definitely does because of the workhorse that he was for so long. I think it’s great because people will have an opportunity to know where he’s going to be and you’re going to get one last opportunity maybe to see him live. I think that’s pretty cool.

I think John gets to get his flowers the way he should. I think this might be the prototype for certain wrestlers to do their Swan Song and leave. But your original question I mean you have to be 100% committed to making this everything. Your whole career has to evolve or revolve around the wrestling part of it.”

• Matt Hardy Reveals Unthinkable Gift He Once Received From Wild Fan

WWE’s Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque has received official recognition from the Connecticut State General Assembly ahead of WrestleMania 40. The legislative body honored the wrestling legend with an official citation on February 6, 2025, acknowledging his upcoming WWE Hall of Fame induction and contributions to the sports entertainment industry.

The Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus specifically recognized Levesque, a longtime Connecticut resident, for his “extraordinary legacy as a legendary competitor and visionary executive.” The citation celebrates his role in revolutionizing the professional wrestling industry.

Responding to the honor on Twitter, Levesque expressed his gratitude: “An honor to receive…Thank you to all in the Connecticut State Assembly for the recognition and the excitement around this year’s #WrestleMania.”

Certificate Details:
The official citation, signed by the President Pro Tempore, Speaker of the House, and Secretary of State, was presented at the State Capitol in Hartford. It was introduced by a bipartisan group of representatives and recognizes Levesque’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The document acknowledges his dual impact as both a performer and executive, highlighting his ongoing influence in the professional wrestling industry.????????????????

Charlotte Flair has made her choice.

The Queen made her triumphant return to WWE after a year-long injury at the Royal Rumble event this month. She re-established herself as the top competitor of the Women’s Division by winning the Women’s Battle Royal and earning the right to yet another WrestleMania title match.

Fans had been speculating who Flair would choose as her Mania opponent since then. Charlotte even teased going the NXT route once again instead of choosing one of the main roster champions.

This week’s episode of SmackDown saw one of the two main roster women’s champions Tiffany Stratton defending her title against former friend Nia Jax.

• Reason Ricky Starks Was Not Referred By His Name On NXT

Charlotte Flair Picks WrestleMania Opponent

The title match ended in disqualification after Candice LeRae attacked the Women’s Champion just as she was setting Jax up for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever. WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus who was in the arena tried to make the save for Stratton but couldn’t get the job done.

Charlotte Flair who was at the ringside watching the bout closely then strolled into the ring and announced that she’ll be challenging Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania 41 from Las Vegas.

This will be The Queen’s first WrestleMania match since 2023 after she missed the show last year due to her injury.

For Stratton, this will be her first WrestleMania match ever. She’s following in the footsteps of Flair herself who 9 years ago made her Mania debut as a champion as well. Charlotte entered the WrestleMania 32 bout as the Divas Champion and walked out with the Women’s Championship that replaced the old title.

• New Evidence In Jade Cargill Case Implicates Raw Tag Team In Mystery Attack

WWE Superstar Bayley was able to show her skills on the court as part of this year’s NBA All Star Celebrity game. Playing as part of Team Jerry Rice, Bayley took to X (fka Twitter) before the big game to share her excitement.

Before the game got started, Bayley had quite the entrance and introduction. The former WWE Women’s Champion came off the bench in the first half and started in the second half.

On the court, Bayley showed off her driblling and her athleticisim, honed by years as a WWE Superstar.

Despite a strong effort, Bayley didn’t score any points and her team would lose 66-55 to the team coached by Barry Bonds. On X, Bayley shared one aspect of the game that’ll haunt her for the rest of the week.

With her NBA debut in the rear-view mirror, Bayley now looks towards WWE NXT Vengeance Day where she will challenge Giulia for the NXT Women’s Title in a match that’ll include Roxanne Perez. With an Elimination Chamber match also in the Role Model’s future, Bayley is certainly being kept busy back in her home of professional wrestling.

WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus is set to make her return to in-ring competition at the upcoming Elimination Chamber premium live event in her hometown of Toronto, Canada.

The announcement came during Friday Night SmackDown, where Stratus revealed she will team with current WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton.

The seven-time Women’s Champion, who is celebrating her 25th anniversary in professional wrestling, has been making waves since her surprise return at the 2025 Royal Rumble.

On SmackDown, Stratus came to Stratton’s aid following a chaotic championship match involving Nia Jax and Candice LeRae. Later in the evening, she officially extended an invitation to Stratton to form what Stratton is already dubbing “Tiffy and Trishy Time” and battle Jax and LaRae.

The WWE Elimination Chamber event takes place on March 1, 2025, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, marking Stratus’s first official match since her brief return in 2023.

WWE revealed a big hint about the mystery attacker of Jade Cargill on this week’s episode of SmackDown from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

The former AEW star has been off TV after being attacked backstage by unknown assailants during the November 22, 2024 episode of the Blue Branded Show. Cargill held the Women’s Tag Team Championships with Bianca Belair at the time and was replaced by Naomi in the team.

There hadn’t been a lot of development in this storyline since then but with Cargill seemingly getting ready for her comeback now, it appears the company is finally ready to move this story forward.

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Jade Cargill Attacker Revealed On SmackDown?

General Manager Nick Aldis called the current tag champs to his office during the latest episode of the Blue Branded Show and revealed that he’s received an ‘anonymous tip’ on the Jade Cargill situation.

“Theres been a development in the Jade situation. We’ve received an anonymous tip.”

Video footage makes it look like Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez were responsible for Cargill’s attack. #SmackDown
pic.twitter.com/KT9MVxYcqa

— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 15, 2025

He went on to play an alternate-angle video of the night of the attack, in which Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez can be seen walking away from the scene as the former TBS Champion is stretchered into the ambulance.

Before being taken out, Jade Cargill was originally supposed to compete at the Survivor Series WarGames event and the duo of Morgan and Rodriguez were part of the opposing team at the match beyond. So it makes sense for the Raw duo to have taken out the SmackDown star before the PPV.

Though many believe that this is a red herring and the real culprit is Naomi who ended up taking Jade’s title and her place at the Survivor Series team.

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Penina Tuilaepa isn’t just another Performance Center prospect—she’s setting her sights on becoming WWE’s next GUNTHER. In a preview clip for WWE LFG, Tuilaepa made her bold comparison to WWE’s reigning World Heavyweight Champion.

“I see myself the most like Gunther. Same stature, big fella. I’m a big girl. I think his technique is top-tier. He does all the little things right, and in the end, that’s all that matters.

People can have the glitz and glam, the body, and whatnot, but if you can’t wrestle in the ring, if you can’t do all the little things right, then what are you really here for?”

Tuilaepa is set to make a strong first impression when WWE LFG premieres on February 16 on A&E. The show will follow Performance Center recruits as they navigate WWE’s grueling training system, with wrestling legends like Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Booker T, Bubba Ray Dudley, Mickie James, and The Undertaker guiding them along the way.

Tuilaepa isn’t just going to talk a big game but she’s ready to prove she can be WWE’s next powerhouse in the women’s division With WWE LFG set to showcase her journey, all eyes will be on whether she can back up her bold comparrison to the World Heavyweight Champion.

In a hard-fought WWE Women’s Championship match on SmackDown, champion Tiffany Stratton’s defense against Nia Jax came to an abrupt end when Candice LeRae interfered, causing a disqualification. The match had been an impressive display of power and athleticism from both competitors until LeRae’s sudden intervention.

The drama continued to unfold as WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus rushed to Stratton’s aid, only to fall victim to Jax’s devastating offense. The situation took another dramatic turn when Charlotte Flair made her entrance, methodically walking to the ring with a steel chair in hand. In a moment dripping with intensity,

Flair positioned herself above the fallen champion and delivered a chilling message:

“The Queen chooses you. I’ll see you at WrestleMania”

With those words, the stage was set for what promises to be an explosive WrestleMania showdown between Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair.

A mysterious Wyatt6 glitch disrupted SmackDown during a backstage reunion between former tag team partners Alexa Bliss and Nia Jax, alongside Candice LaRae.

The broadcast was interrupted by the Wyatt6 logo and a series of cryptic imagery, including footage of Bliss from the 2023 Royal Rumble – her last appearance before returning at the 2025 event.

The glitch also featured a “HEAL” glove, an enigmatic riddle, and a silhouette of Uncle Howdy, accompanied by the haunting message “Do you feel in charge?” – the same question Howdy posed to Bliss in their last encounter.

While the group has yet to make their physical debut on the blue brand, this supernatural interruption suggests that long-rumored plans for Bliss to align with the Wyatt6 are finally materializing.

The broadcast briefly displayed the ominous message “Do you feel in charge?” – the same question Uncle Howdy posed to Bliss in their last encounter two years ago.

The incident has fueled speculation about an imminent confrontation between Bliss and the Wyatt6 faction on SmackDown.