John Cena proved the lengths he’ll go to entertain with his viral appearance the 2024 Oscars, according to his friend and former rival Booker T. 

At this year’s Academy Awards, Cena was on-hand to present the award for ‘Best Costume’ alongside Jimmy Kimmel. In a throwback to the 1974 ceremony that saw a streaker interrupt a speech by David Niven, Cena appeared in the ‘nude’ and covered his unmentionables with a large envelope. 

Of course, Cena wasn’t actually nude at the Oscars, despite what some may believe. Backstage photos have revealed he wore skin-colored trunks to give the illusion of nudity. 

John Cena at the Oscars

Cena’s performance at the Oscars immediately went viral with people from both in and out of wrestling weighing in. Addressing what happened in Tinseltown during the latest episode of his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T said it demonstrated how willing John is to entertain. 

“That was risky, but it just goes to show you how far we have come and how far John is willing to go to entertain. That’s all. That’s all it is. That’s a wrestler, doing something like that. Wrestlers gonna put themselves out there.”

What’s Next? 

John is hoping to appear (clothed no less!) at WrestleMania 40 when the Showcase of the Immortals comes to Philadelphia, PA next month. The show will be the fifth-annual two-night WrestleMania, a tradition which began thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of right now, there have not been any publicly confirmed plans for the 16-time WWE World Champion. 

H/T – Fightful

NXT Superstar Impressing

Je’Von Evans is proving to be one to watch at NXT live events and has been impressing officials according to Fightful Select. He is expected to be a regular on NXT TV moving forward. Evans, who previously competed as Jay Malachi, featured in a backstage segment on the February 13, edition of the show. He signed with the company in November of 2023. 

Praise for Byron Saxton

Byron Saxton has received praise for taking up Booker T’s role as part of the commentary team. Shortly before NXT Vengeance Day, Booker announced that a medical issue would keep him from that show and upcoming events. He is expected to return very soon. 

Plans for the War Dogs

WWE NXT Tag Team Champions Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker have proven to be a hit with fans and with those backstage. There have been discussions about Corbin joining Breakker on the main roster now that Bron has signed with SmackDown. There are also talks about renaming the group to ‘Spear of Days.’ 

Not Taking WWE NXT Off Air

Earlier this month, the WWE NXT crowd were told to watch their language after heavy profanity was sent the way of Carmelo Hayes. Despite rumors suggesting last week’s NXT could have been taken off the air due to the chants, there was ‘no chance’ it would be taken off the air by the USA Network. 

Edris Enofe Injury

It was previously reported by the Wrestling Observer that Edris Enofe suffered an injury on the February 6, WWE NXT. Fightful reports that Enofe is said to have suffered the injury about halfway through the tag team bout with Nathan Frazer and Axiom.

WWE fans are waiting in anticipation for Jade Cargill’s next match for the company. She made her in-ring debut in the Women’s Royal Rumble Match on January 27, where she impressed many with her performance. Although she didn’t win, it had fans buzzing about her future in the company. However, WWE is taking it slow in showcasing her more in-ring. 

Since the WWE Royal Rumble, the newly signed WWE superstar has appeared on WWE Monday Night Raw and Friday Night Smackdown. Cargill’s current storyline is that she is trying to decide what brand she wants to sign with. 

On the February 16 episode of WWE Friday Night Smackdown, Cagill seemingly hinted at not wanting to sign with the brand and looked annoyed by the lack of attention. 

Although the company features her on TV, Booker T has spoken openly about wanting to see her in the ring soon. On his podcast Hall of Fame, the WWE legend was asked by a fan what brand he believes Cargill will sign with and if she could have her singles debut at WWE WrestleMania 40 in April. 

 Booker T responded that he wanted to see her in the ring more and wouldn’t mind WWE using her like All Elite Wrestling did.

“…I don’t care if they did the same thing they did with her over in AEW. Just put her in there and beat up some people. You know what I mean? Squash a few girls,” said Booker T. 

Booker T On Jade Cargill Training & Potential Match At WrestleMania 40

While Cargill’s in-ring career has been put on hold, Booker T acknowledges that she is actively training at the WWE Performance Center. Cargill showed the results of her work in the Women’s Royal Rumble Match and believes the company knows what they have with her. 

 “I’m sure she is down in the PC training on a regular basis, and that might be even better for her. You know, you never know. Just because the last time we saw Jade Cargill, she looked pretty damn good in the ring,” said Booker T. He explained, “She did not look like she was out of place at all, and I think that comes from just that little bit of training. Trying to learn that intricate detail, as far as why you are in the ring.” 

Regarding her making her singles debut at WWE WrestleMania 40, Booker T thinks it could help with her appeal. 

“…It may not be a bad thing her having a match at Mania, then going out there and shocking the world man! Letting the people see what Jade Cargill is all about. I’m not opposed to that,” said the WWE Hall of Famer.

A featured singles match at WWE WrestleMania 40 could be a great way to showcase Cargill’s skills on a big stage. However, the company is trying to ensure she is prepared to be a regular roster member. Booker T and fans will have to wait and see what the company has in store for her. 

Feeling a Harlem Hangover due to Booker T’s NXT absence? Fear not, sucka, the two-time, two-time, two-time WWE Hall Of Famer says he’ll be back behind the commentator’s table.

Booker T revealed back on February 4 that he’d be undergoing an undisclosed medical procedure that would keep him off television for a few weeks.

“I will not be at #NXTVengenceDay tonight and I’ll be off TV the next couple weeks due to a medical procedure I had to have. But – I’m all good and I’ll be back in action on NXT in no time! Thank you all for your support, couldn’t do it with out the people. Shucky Ducky!”

I will not be at #NXTVengenceDay tonight and I’ll be off TV the next couple weeks due to a medical procedure I had to have. But – I’m all good and I’ll be back in action on @WWENXT in no time! Thank you all for your support, couldn’t do it with out the people. Shucky Ducky!

— Booker T. Huffman (@BookerT5x) February 4, 2024

Speaking on the latest Hall Of Fame podcast, Booker said he’s likely only seven days away from being back by the side of Vic Joseph.

“I’m back in the gym. I’m feeling good. I’m one week out, and I’ll be back at the table, doing my thing, doing it like it’s supposed to be done, making all them suckas bow down, making them pay, making them say, ‘Daddy, I don’t want none.’ I can’t wait, man.”

While Booker was away, Byron Saxton sat in his steed as he and Joseph both got to witness Bron Breakker and Baron Corbin becoming the new NXT Tag Team Champions against The D’Angelo Family last week.

Booker in the past has giving big credit to Vic Joseph as being a stellar play-by-play man, even making a play for Joseph to get called up to the main roster in a commentary role.

Please credit Hall of Fame and h/t Fightful for the transcription.

Reality of Wrestling, the promotion run by Booker T & Sharmell Huffman, are in search for their next break-out star with their ‘Search for the Ultimate Athlete.’

In a statement, Booker T shared the following information about their search: 

Embark on a Journey of Grit and Glory with “ROW Games: The Search for the Ultimate Athlete”

Reality of Wrestling (ROW), co-founded by WWE Hall of Famers Booker T and Sharmell Huffman, is excited to announce the launch of a groundbreaking competition series, “ROW Games: The Search for the Ultimate Athlete.” Hosted by the enigmatic Marty “The Boogeyman” Wright, this intense series will pit 20 of the country’s most promising athletes — 10 men and 10 women — against each other in a series of grueling physical challenges.

Over the span of six episodes, these competitors will test their limits, showcasing their strength, agility, and determination, all for the chance to be crowned the Ultimate Athlete and claim a grand prize of $5,000.00. The twist? Stars from Reality of Wrestling will not only serve as officials but also participate in the challenges, blurring the lines between competitors and the seasoned pros.

“ROW Games is not just another athletic competition; it’s the heart of what wrestling embodies — the blend of physical prowess, mental toughness, and sheer will to succeed,” says Booker T. “These athletes are about to face a challenge like no other, and only the best will make it to the end.”

Sharmell Huffman adds, “We’re looking for those who have the spark, the charisma, and the story that will inspire. It’s more than a competition; it’s about finding that star quality that shines even when the going gets tough.”

The Reality of Wrestling Games will be held at the Texas Entertainment Xperience (TEX), the largest indoor entertainment and gaming complex in the state of Texas located at 10000 Emmett F Lowry Expressway in Texas City, TX 77591. This top-tier venue is set to provide a spectacular backdrop for the physical prowess on display, ensuring an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.

Auditions are set to take place at the Texas City World Gym, with production slated to start on April 20th, 2024. The ROW Games will be accessible to its nearly 750,000 subscribers on the Reality of Wrestling YouTube Channel, bringing fans closer to the sweat, tears, and triumphs of these aspiring athletes. Check realityofwrestling.com

Searching For a Wrestler

It’s fitting that Marty Wright will have a role in the search for the ultimate athlete. Wright appeared on 2004’s edition of WWE Tough Enough but was ejected early on after he was found lying about his age to make the show’s limit. 

TNA Wrestling has also had its share of competitions to find new talent. In addition to TNA Gut Check, the promotion also had two seasons of TNA British Boot Camp. The first season resulted in Rockstar Spud earning a contract with TNA, while Mark Andrews would secure a contract after winning season 2. Notable names from British Bootcamp include Kris Travis, Grado, Noam Dar, Alba Fyre, Nikki Cross, and Piper Niven. 

WWE Hall of Famer and Reality of Wrestling owner Booker T has responded to claims that he fired a wrestler because she was the victim of stalking. 

This week, Raychell Rose spoke about her experiences with ROW, and claimed that a trainee called Shawn Reed stalked her for years. Reed even went as far as to threaten a shoot-up at a ROW event, according to sources close to the situation. 

Booker T Responds

Rose claims that after an incident with Reed at a bar that resulted in multiple arrests, she was let go from Reality of Wrestling. This bar was a known hangout for ROW talent after shows, and it is believed Reed deliberately went with the intent of stalking Rose. The wrestler alleges that the blame for Reed’s behavior was put on her as an alleged source of issues.

 On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker addressed the incident at the bar and said he encouraged Rose to not go to the bar despite the tradition. 

“I stressed, ‘Raychell Rose, go somewhere else. Go anywhere. So many other places you can go to. Do that for me so we can diffuse the situation.’ I left, went home, next thing you know, I’m getting a phone call from the bar owner, I’m getting a phone call from the police and the boys to come back and figure out what happened. Raychell Rose chose to go to the bar. What happened after that was totally out of my control.”

When asked about Reed reportedly bringing a weapon to a ROW event, Booker denied the notion. 

“That’s not true. The place he sat, I made sure he was watched by an armed guard and six other people. I made sure of that. I got instinct. I could have easily let Shawn Reed leave the building that night and he left in a depressed state and something really happened that night, but nothing happened at Reality of Wrestling.”

Not Stalking? 

When asked about Reed’s alleged stalking of Rose and if he was aware, Booker said he was more concerned over Reed’s situation. 

“Not stalking. He made aware that he did not want to date her. He said, ‘I don’t want to date her, I just want to be part of Reality of Wrestling. This is something I’ve missed for the last four years.’ That’s what my concern was. My concern was the kid. I didn’t know about her issue. Maybe had I been aware of her issue, I would have taken just as much consideration.”

Raychell is Fired

Booker added that following the incident at the bar, a phone call happened between himself and Rose in which it was agreed she wouldn’t be returning for ROW events. Booker said that the decision was amicable and that she was not ‘fired.’

“No one ever said to Raychell Rose, ‘You’re fired.’ That’s not a word we use at Reality of Wrestling because we don’t hire people. Raychell Rose, if she would have did what I asked, she says it, ‘I remember him saying go somewhere else, but we have a tradition to go to the bar.’ If we have a tradition to go to the bar, we have a problem. I’m trying to help you and save your life. That was disregarded.”

Booker added that there has not been an incident like this in the 20 years of Reality of Wrestling. He added that even if he could have seen the bar incident coming, he does not believe anything he could have done would have changed the situation. 

H/T – Fightful

Reality of Wrestling owner Booker T fired Raychell Rose from the promotion because she was being stalked, the young wrestler has claimed this week. 

Fightful reports that trainee Shawn Reed was asked to stay away from ROW’s training facility after several instances of his behavior making Rose and others uncomfortable. Despite this, he would make himself present numerous times. Rose attempted to file stalking and harassment charges but they were denied on the grounds the pair had never been in a relationship. 

Early Problems

In conversations obtained by Fightful dating as far back as August 2021, it is made clear to Reed that his behavior was an issue. Reed claimed that Rose had “manipulated him into thinking she was single” despite it being widely known in ROW that she was in a long-term relationship. A ROW official, who Rose said was Kevin Bernhardt, urged Reed to train at Premier, as his attendance at ROW had been sparse as is. Rose told Fightful that Bernhardt knew she performed at Premier. Bernhardt was supposed to inform Booker T but did not do so. 

After an incident in March 2022, Reed was ejected from the Houston Premier Arena, where Rose had been wrestling. On March 10, Bernhardt instructed Reed not to come to an upcoming event that Rose would be featured on. Reed contacted Bernhardt again in June for permission to attend an upcoming show, but Bernhardt denied him. It’s reported that this exchange was amicable. 

Police Involvement

In September, Reed messaged Rose in an alleged attempt to make amends, despite being instructed multiple times not to contact her, including by police. That December, a situation at a ROW show saw multiple arrests, with Reed being among them. Students said at the time that this situation could have been prevented. 

Reed would once again appear at a ROW show Rose was competing at. Rose claimed that she was told to notify police immediately if Reed was around her.

Booker T Involved

Booker T encountered Reed in the parking lot of that event. Talent claim that Reed had made threats on himself and implied to Booker that he was considering attacking the students, with some claiming he threatened to shoot up the venue. Booker reportedly walked Reed back into the venue after he’d been ejected in an effort to calm him doing and stop him doing anything “crazy.”

Arrests Made

After that event, Reed went to a bar that the ROW performers visted after every show as a tradition. Many claimed that Reed knew of this tradition and deliberately went to the bar to see Rose. She approached him at the bar and told him to stay away from her and that she was calling the police. Before they arrived, ROH talent confronted Reed. Rose claims Reed hit a ROW wrestler with a glass mug and attempted to hit her. 

Reed and a ROW talent were arrested due to the incident at the bar. Booker T claimed the talent’s charges were expunged and he was quickly bonded out. Those we spoke to said that the attacked ROW talent’s medical expenses weren’t covered, though Rose thought they should be.

Rose added that she was told ROW would have armed security to deal with Reed at future events. She says this did not end up happening. 

Raychell Rose is Fired

Rose said that upon speaking with Booker T after the incident, that she was fired from Reality of Wrestling, which she felt wasn’t justified. She believes she lost her role due to having a stalker she’d warned the company about. Those familiar with the situation said she was blamed for causing the problematic Reed to be around. 

When Fightful asked Booker T, he confirmed Rose was fired from ROW. Booked cited internal reasons he wouldn’t elaborate upon as the reason for her exit. Booker called the issue a “nonstory” and pointed to Reality of Wrestling’s track record of not having similar stories emerge from their company.

Rose claimed that Booker was angry at her over the December incident which resulted in multiple arrests. 

“Booker screamed and cursed at me when he arrived on the scene while I was talking to police at the December incident that this was my fault and I’m the reason people got hurt and arrested.”

ROW Departures

Fightful can confirm that multiple wrestlers left ROW in protest after the situation. One said that they left because the situation left them feeling unsafe and not protected at the venue after the situation unfolded, in light of the threats they heard Reed had spoken of.

Raychell Rose Comments

In her discussion with Fightful, Rose added the following: 

“My safety has not been secure for years due to Shawn Reed and the lack of support I received from the people in charge at Reality of Wrestling which allowed Shawn’s actions to escalate the way they did unchecked. This issue being allowed to fester for so long has resulted in many hours of speaking in person to and on the phone with police officers, district attorneys, and lawyers because of this situation.

“I’ve spent and continue to spend a great deal of time in therapy sessions to process trauma related to this incident in hopes of one day fully overcoming the effects of it. That itself comes with a stigma, but it’s all a part of the healing process which I am learning to navigate and fully embrace.

“Overall I hope what comes out of this is Booker, along with the people placed in charge at his school, implement procedures and protections to ensure all threats are taken seriously in the future.

“Should they continue to not make students’ safety their priority, I hope that at the very least any women who train there or are looking for a place to train see this and are able to make an educated decision before they to put their safety into the hands of Reality of Wrestling.”

Rose added that she was thankful for the start ROW gave her and was grateful to the original trainers that she worked with who protected her and created a culture where people looked out for each other. She added: 

“Despite these positive feelings about how things used to be, it doesn’t absolve the actions taken by Booker T and Kevin Bernhardt that were geared towards protecting their reputation and downplaying the events that led up to and followed the events of that night.”

Tonight’s NXT Vengeance Day event will sound much different than expected, as Booker T will not be commentating on the show.

On Twitter, the two-time WWE Hall of Famer shared that a medical procedure will keep him from the latest Premium Live Event of the gold brand. Booker will also miss the next few weeks due to this situation and thanked the fans for their support. 

I will not be at #NXTVengenceDay tonight and I’ll be off TV the next couple weeks due to a medical procedure I had to have. But – I’m all good and I’ll be back in action on @WWENXT in no time! Thank you all for your support, couldn’t do it with out the people. Shucky Ducky!

— Booker T. Huffman (@BookerT5x) February 4, 2024

Booker T Behind The Desk

Booker has been a commentator for WWE NXT since October of 2022, and calls the action each week with Vic Joseph. Booker’s tenure with NXT has allowed him to remain close to Roxanne Perez, who was mentored by Booker before she joined WWE. 

Booker’s role as an NXT commentator isn’t his first time behind the desk. In February 2011, shortly after his return to WWE, Booker was revealed as the new color commentator for SmackDown. He has also had multiple stints as a commentator for WWE Monday Night Raw. 

WWE NXT Vengeance Day

Here is the card for WWE NXT: Vengeance Day as it stands: 

• Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker vs. Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams (Men’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Finals)

• Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Roxanne Perez (NXT Women’s Championship)

• Oba Femi (c) vs. Dragon Lee (NXT North American Championship)

• The Family (Tony D’Angelo, Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo, and Adriana Rizzo) vs. Out The Mud (Lucien Price, Bronco Nima, and Jaida Parker) (with Scrypts)

• Dijak vs. Joe Gacy (No Disqualification Match)

• Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. Trick Williams (NXT Championship)

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T is ready to lace up his boots one more time for this weekend’s Men’s Royal Rumble match. 

The 2024 Royal Rumble event will take place this weekend from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The show will be the 37th annual Royal Rumble event and the seventh to feature a Men’s and Women’s match. On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker made his case for why he should be in the match. 

“I’m in the best shape of my life, y’all. I’ve been training, I’ve been hitting the gym harder than I’ve ever hit it before. I’m serious, man. I’m serious on this. So if they need an extra man, if they need me to make that walk just one time going down in St. Petersburg, Florida, oh yeah, man. I will be ready, willing and able to get the job done, guys.”

Booker went even further, saying he’s not taking any phone calls unless it has a 203 area code, the code for Stamford, CT, where WWE’s headquarters are located. The former World Champion added that he’ll already be in St. Petersburg for the show, as he’ll be part of the kick-off panel. 

Booker T in the Royal Rumble Match

After joining the WWF following the demise of WCW, Booker’s Rumble debut would come in the 2002 match. The ‘favorite’ Superstar of Mr. McMahon at the time, Booker entered at #30 but his time in the match would be woefully short-lived. Booker has appeared in a total of 9 Royal Rumble matches. He has a total of 11 eliminations to his name and has lasted in the match for a combined time of 42:57.

WWE Royal Rumble 2024

Here is the card for the WWE 2024 Royal Rumble PLE as it currently stands:

• Men’s Royal Rumble match (Confirmed entrants: Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Shinsuke Nakamura, Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre, GUNTHER, Chad Gable, Otis, Akira Tozawa, Kofi Kingston, Damian Priest)

• Women’s Royal Rumble match (Confirmed entrants: Bayley, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, Nia Jax, Maxxine Dupri, Ivy Nile)

• Roman Reigns (c) (with Paul Heyman) vs. Randy Orton vs. AJ Styles vs. LA Knight (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship)

• Logan Paul (c) vs. Kevin Owens (WWE United States Championship)

Who else should the WWE Universe expect during this week’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event… 

H/T – Fightful

There are a good deal of pro wrestling fans in the NBA and Tyrese Haliburton was pumped to Booker T was there to catch a game

Booker T is based out of Houston, TX and the Indiana Pacers were in town to face the hometown Rockets. The Pacers’ social media account caught their star shooter Haliburton running his wy to the court when Tyrese saw Booker T standing off to the side. Haliburton was clearly well-aware of who Booker was and also his wife Sharmell who was at his side.

Haliburton came in for a hug and was excited to see that the two-time WWE Hall Of Famer in the house. It happened to be WWE Night for the Rockets so “King” Booker and “Queen” Sharmell were the guests of honor that evening.

The Pacers ended up getting the win that night and after the game Haliburton said that he was “locked in” due to it being WWE Night.

“Booker T, no way…And the Queen!”

Tyrese Haliburton met @WWE Hall of Famers Booker T and Queen Sharmell before last night’s game. safe to say he was a little excited 🥹😂 pic.twitter.com/Ik4q2yZOTG

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) December 27, 2023

Several Modern NBA Players Have Gotten Involved With Wrestling

Many NBA players keep tabs on what goes down in wrestling. In addition to Haliburton’s excitement, Giannis Antetokounmpo was an avid attendee to AEW events. A name to be a physical factor in the WWE was Trae Young who fully embrace being a heel on WWE SmackDown.

Since they started, AEW has made sure to cross-promote the NBA product, the biggest of note was Shaquille O’Neal returning to the ring to face Cody Rhodes. That particular bout also happened to be the in-ring debut of Jade Cargill. 

Booker T believes CM Punk has brought back a refreshing attitude since returning to WWE.

The two-time WWE Hall Of Famer was speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast with Brad Gilmore, and made mention of Punk’s presence, who has been a very proactive participant in helping out down in NXT.

“Punk seemed to enjoy it. He’s been down there every time I’ve been to work. ‘What are you doing here?’ He’s been very refreshing. It’s been a different CM Punk. CM Punk said this time around, it’s not about him, it’s about the fans.”

The talent down at NXT have clearly welcomed Punk in with open arms, who is reportedly eyeing a leadership role down the road with the brand. Both Cora Jade and Roxanne Perez were photographed working out with Punk who playfully called the session a “father/daughter” day at the gym.

Being a commentator for NXT, Booker speaks to the energy down in NXT with Shawn Michaels and the crew he’s assembled. He believes Punk is feeling a good deal of that energy as well.

“At NXT, these guys are learning and trying to figure it out. I can give advice here, give advice here. For me, I think that’s what he’s feeling, being down there because it is uplifting be part of the system down there. Those guys give you that kind of energy.”

Punk is clearly making an effort to show an ability to change and work with everyone. On a recent YouTube episode of the ‘Oh You Didn’t Know’ podcast, Road Dogg Brian James talked about he and Punk hugged it out at catering when the two saw one another and that hug was prompted by Punk himself.

Since his recent WWE return, CM Punk has already proven to move a staggering amount of merchandise. As WWE negotiates the next media rights deal for Monday Night Raw (starting October 2024), Punk is already giving WWE increased leverage as it finalizes where Raw will air for the next several years. More on that right here:

Ahmed Johnson is no longer associated with WWE, as his career in the ring is in the rearview mirror. That won’t stop him from throwing bombs at his former coworkers. Now, Booker T is answering back.

In case you need a refresher, Ahmed Johnson straight-up challenged Booker T to a fight. The former WWE Superstar said that he has a time and location for the confrontation to go down as well.

“Brother, I got a dojo for us. If you wanna get to the streets with this, let’s do it. Because I didn’t appreciate what he said. And before you call somebody a scum, look at your past, and then really know who the scum is.”

Booker T’s Reaction to Ahmed Johnson

During a recent episode of his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T addressed comments made by Ahmed Johnson on another podcast concerning Booker’s time in prison.

Booker also confronted Johnson’s claims that he possessed a story about an incident involving Booker during his prison days. The five-time WCW Champion issued a warning to Johnson in the event that he decides to make the story public.

“I actually heard the interview…he said what a low life I was, going to prison for robbing people. And I must say, I did go to prison for robbing people…I was a kid, and I think I’ve atoned for every piece of dirt I put down back in the day. I was a kid that made a mistake. He talks about being in a gang as a youth himself. What do gangs do? What do they normally do? They’re normally not the pillars of society, I’m just saying.”

“I hope he tells that story, I really do. He’ll see a different side of me if he does tell a false story that’s totally not true. Because I’ve got facts, I’ve got receipts as far as everything I’m saying. If he tells a lie about me, he’s probably going to end up in court, and he’s probably going to end up getting sued from defaming me.”

Booker T didn’t sound down to face Ahmed Johnson in any dojo, but he certainly had a lot to say in the process. Odds are, this beef is far from settled, because Ahmed Johnson is not the kind of person to let go of a grudge easily.

You may check out Booker T’s reaction to Ahmed Johnson below. It will be interesting if they are ever booked at the same event in the future, because fans might get more than their money’s worth if those two bump into each other in public. 

WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has been able to have an up close and personal look at the NXT brand as a color commentator when he replaced Wade Barrett in the color commentator role last year when Barrett was moved to SmackDown to replace Pat McAfee. 

Since then, Booker T has called several episodes and Peacock specials. The wrestling legend recently gave praise to an NXT tag team. Speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker praised Indus Sher (Veer and Sanga).

Old School

“I love those guys, Indus Sher. Those guys are so old school. They take me back to, Sanga and Veer, they take me back to what tag team wrestling once upon a time was and it was all about going out there and creating havoc.”

Booker T thinks they have a bright future on the main roster and could make a splash on the main roster should Triple H give them the opportunity. 

“I think Sanga and Veer could really make a splash on the main roster. Together that’s, that’s two big gears. I don’t need to have more than that.”

After returning to NXT last year after a main roster stint, he reunited with Sanga before being joined by Jinder Mahal. The faction just beat Bron Breakker and the Creed Brothers on last week’s NXT Roadblock show. 

Transcription via Wrestling Inc.

The new season of Pawn Stars is set to feature a longtime WCW and WWE fan favorite.

Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion and 5-time WCW Champion Booker T will appear on the show. On offer during the new season are a pair of his wrestling boots. The owner in question reveals he’s looking to get them pawned off for at least $6000.

Along with longtime star Rick Harrison, the man himself makes an appearance. Booker T is spotted pulling his signature pose, entering the show in a similar fashion to how he would the ring. The Houston-native also readily confirms the authenticity of the boots.

Pawn Stars is set to premiere on March 15th.

Will Booker T Wrestle In WWE Again?

Booker T made a surprise appearance during this year’s men’s Royal Rumble match. The San Antonio crowd gave the spinaroonie master a major pop when his iconic entrance theme hit.

The 2006 King of the Ring only lasted 42 seconds in the bout. Intercontinental Champion Gunther sent the Reality of Wrestling founder crashing to the floor to a chorus of boos.

While the Bad Bunny musical subject looked to be in solid shape, it was clear that decades of explosive action between the ropes have taken their toll. During an edition on his Hall of Fame podcast shortly after the Rumble, Booker T discussed his appearance and high opinion of Gunther.

“Gunther did an awesome job making history,” Booker T said. “That guy’s gonna be a major, major player here for WWE for a long time and it was my honor to do the favor for him and I’ve seen people, stupid people saying, ‘Booker got jobbed out.’ Let me just say this, Booker got jobbed out by Gunther and I wanna say this publicly just so everybody can hear it. I’d rather be jobbed out by Gunther than Gunther be jobbed out by me any day of the week.” (h/t WrestleTalk)

For now, it does not appear there are any angles or more long-form matches planned for the WWE Hall-of-Famer. He does, however, perform on ROW from time to time.

Do you plan on watching Booker T’s Pawn Stars appearance?

Booker T has weighed in on the possibility of AEW’s Kenny Omega going to WWE. 

As previously reported, some in AEW have overheard the promotion’s founder Tony Khan say that Omega has substantial injury time that “could be” added to his deal if he decides to extend it this year.

Those in AEW don’t believe the injury time has been added yet. Several in WWE believe that they can land Omega as it’s been said Omega had a positive relationship with WWE. 

On his latest Hall Of Fame podcast, the WWE Hall Of Famer commented on the reports of WWE being interested in signing the former AEW World Heavyweight Champion. 

Booker T on Kenny Omega

Booker T thinks while it would be a big loss for All Elite Wrestling, they could recover from Omega’s departure and Omega could be a big star in WWE

“I don’t know how many years Kenny Omega has left in the ring. WWE would make Kenny Omega’s star shine brighter than any other place he ever could be in. If Omega was to sign with WWE, he would likely be presented as one of their biggest stars and potentially work at WrestleMania.

Booker continued: “If you don’t work at WrestleMania, you know throughout your career, you missed out on something. I can understand why Kenny Omega would want to mix it up with AJ Styles, two of the best at what they do, at WrestleMania.”

Omega is currently an AEW Trios Champion along with The Young Bucks. 

H/T to Wrestling Inc for the transcript

WWE and Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling have announced a partnership involving NXT.

In a social media post, Reality of Wrestling said “Reality of Wrestling is taking the roster to the NEXT Level! We are proud to announce that we’ll be working with NXT to bring our fans incredible match ups they can’t see anywhere else.”

Ivy Nile will be competing on Saturday, February 11 in Texas City.

Booker T tweeted that he is “excited to merge my NXT favorites with the roster of my students at ROW.”

NXT Allowing Talent to Work Indies

NXT’s current Women’s Champion, Roxanne, is a product of ROW. She and Booker T both competed in the Royal Rumble matches last Saturday. The WWE Hall of Famer had previously said “if I get an invitation I’m definitely going to execute it.”

Bryan Alvarez tweeted that “NXT is going to allow talent to work select indies going forward, which is a pretty big deal.” It is unclear if any other indie promotions will be involved or if it just ROW.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest.

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WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T believes Rhea Ripley is the future of the women’s division.

Booker T took to his podcast, “The Hall Of Fame,” and offered up some predictions for this weekend’s Royal Rumble. He picked Rhea Ripley as the winner for the Women’s Royal Rumble, going as far as suggesting Ripley is the future of the division.

“Of course in the men’s, it’s gonna be Cody Rhodes,” Booker said. “In the women’s, it’s going to be the Rhip (Rhea Ripley). It’s time for the Rhip to get that push. It’s time for the Rhip to come out of that shadow of the women.

“Being able to just sit back in the wings, watch and wait, you know, with Judgment Day as of late, has given her a little bit of time to get that hunger back to go out there and really take control of that women’s division. I really think she can. I really think Rhea Ripley is the future of the women’s division.”

Ripley has certainly made a name for herself since joining the WWE’s main roster in 2021. After making a name for herself in NXT UK and NXT, winning the women’s title for both brands.

Upon making it up to the main roster, Ripley went on to defeat Asuka for the RAW Women’s Title at WrestleMania 37. She also won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles alongside Nikki A.S.H.

Currently, Ripley is a member of The Judgement Day alongside Finn Balor, Damian Priest, and Dominik Mysterio.

• Rhea Ripley: “I Would Most Definitely Love to Enter the Men’s Royal Rumble”

Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

Booker T is staying full-time with WWE NXT. 

After the Triple H regime took over in the middle of 2022, the broadcast teams for Raw, NXT, and SmackDown were switched up. 

Wade Barrett was moved from NXT to SmackDown as Pat McAfee focused on his duties with ESPN’s College Gameday. WWE brought in Booker T for the NXT role and has been calling the action alongside Vic Joseph. The belief was that after McAfee would return after the college football season wrapped up, Barrett would return to NXT. 

While speaking on the newest episode of Booker’s ‘Hall of Fame’ podcast, the WWE Hall Of Famer shared that his NXT commentary stint was supposed to wrap up in December, but he’s now full-time on the brand and joked about taking Wade Barrett’s spot.

Booker T is Staying

“I gotta get back to work. NXT duties start tomorrow. My thing is, that job was only supposed to be until the end of December. But like I say, what’s that kid’s name that used to work there?… Yeah, Wade Barrett. He’s gone and forgotten as you can see. That’s my job now. That’s my job, full-time… I’m full-time now. I’m full-time on NXT, all right? I’m gonna be up in your ear, all up in your ear, every Tuesday (Booker laughed)… Wade Barrett, I don’t know if they’re gonna keep him on, find a spot for him over on Raw or SmackDown or something but his ass ain’t coming back to NXT.

This week’s episode of NXT is the first live show for the brand in several weeks and will be the go-home episode before the New Year’s Evil special on January 10th. 

H/T to POST Wrestling for the transcription

Although it’s said she made a staggering amount of money, WWE Hall Of Famer Booker T doesn’t believe Mandy Rose’s FanTime earnings will be sustainable in the long run.

The two-time WWE Hall Of Famer recently took to his podcast, “The Hall Of Fame,” to offer his thoughts on the situation. After it was claimed that Rose made about $1 million in earnings last month from her FanTime account, Booker said he doesn’t believe that will be enough to hold her over if she’s “living large.”

“Speaking on the staggering dollar figure, Booker T said. “”A million dollars ain’t gonna take care of you for a solid year if you’re living large.” He continued, “I think [Rose launching a FanTime account] was the wrong decision, and I stand by that because I feel that Mandy Rose’s talent was so much more than her beauty.”

FanTime actually congratulated Rose for earning $1 million in the month of December. She’s listed as one of the site’s top creators on its homepage. However, WWE didn’t appear to be too excited by Rose’s side business.

She was released from the company after it was discovered that she was posting mature content on her profile. Rose had reigned as WWE NXT Women’s Champion for 413 days before she was defeated by Roxanne Perez on the December 13 episode of NXT.

It proved to be Rose’s final match before news of her release came through. Just prior to her release, Rose’s FanTime content got leaked to the public, which is likely what put it on WWE’s radar.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

All Elite Wrestling has some of the most passionate wrestling fans in the world, but they may be a bit too devoted for Booker T’s liking.

AEW was founded in 2019 to serve as an alternative to WWE, though the promotion is home to several former WWE Superstars.

Given the promotion’s role as an alternative to WWE, the company has developed a large fanbase from an audience tired of what they’ve seen from the Stamford-based promotion.

Cult

AEW fans are extremely loyal to the promotion, but Booker T believes some go too far.

Speaking on the latest Hall of Fame podcast, Booker addressed tribalism in wrestling when one listener referred to AEW fans as like a ‘cult.’

“You know, I agree 100 percent. I wouldn’t say all of them, I’m not going to say all of them, but a lot of them. Sometimes they’re just looking for it. It’s like being in a relationship, you know where you got one of those girlfriends that’s just looking through your phone all the time, just looking for something … making up excuses to have a fight, stuff like that, that’s the way AEW fans are.”

“Making up excuses to have a fight, stuff like that, that’s the way AEW fans are.”

Booker T.

“You could be talking about something totally irrelevant to AEW and they’re like, ‘Wait a minute, he’s talking about AEW, did he say Kenny Omega?’ It’s that kind of stuff, it’s like they’re paranoid. Relax, no one’s thinking about AEW that much enough to where we’re going to try to talk in code about it.”

AEW recently held its Winter is Coming event, and next week’s Dynamite will see the launch of a new production design for Tony Khan’s first wrestling company.

h/t – 411 Mania

Booker T has finally revealed whether or not he’d be willing to wrestle in the Royal Rumble match next year.

The two-time WWE Hall Of Famer took to his podcast, “The Hall Of Fame,” to discuss his return to the wrestling ring. Booker announced recently that he’ll be returning to the ring on December 18 for his Reality of Wrestling’s Christmas Chaos event.

Since making the announcement, the former World Champion admits that his phone has been ringing nonstop with offers to wrestle. He even revealed that WWE has made offers themselves, but the circumstances just weren’t right at the time.

He did, however, note that he could be interested in doing a match for one of WWE’s Saudi Arabia shows. In regards to potentially competing in January’s Royal Rumble match, Booker T seems very interested, and is simply waiting on the call.

“I will be checking the mail everyday all the way up until that day, because if I get an invitation I’m definitely going to execute it, I’m definitely going to be there and I’m going to be prepared to be in the middle of the ring if that happens.

“But no, nobody’s talked to me or anything like that about being in the Rumble. I don’t have any itches to scratch or anything like that, but hey man, I’m always down.”

This year’s Royal Rumble event will take place from San Antonio, Texas, Booker’s home state. His presence would certainly be an electric one, as the Texas native is a six-time World Champion.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

Booker T is returning to the ring, but WWE is yet to give the two-time Hall of Famer a call.

This week, it was announced that Booker will return to wrestling for his Reality of Wrestling promotion on December 18.

The former World Champion will team with Mysterious Q to challenge Fly Def (Zack Mason & Warren Johnson) for the ROW Tag Team Championships

The match will be Booker’s first in five months after wrestling for Reality of Wrestling at the Summer of Champions VIII in July 2022.

Booker T and WWE

In addition to his work with Reality of Wrestling, Booker can regularly be found providing commentary for WWE NXT.

When Fightful Select asked, they were told that there have been no inquiries for Booker to wrestle by WWE, despite his return to the ring.

That doesn’t mean there haven’t been any, but the several times Fightful asked they have been told that they didn’t hear anything.

Speaking on his podcast earlier this year, Booker said he wouldn’t say no to a return match for WWE but it is not something he is actively pursuing.

NXT Commentator

Booker T joined the NXT commentary team in October of this year, as part of major shakeups to all three brands.

Booker is replacing Wade Barett, who has joined SmackDown while Pat McAfee is on hiatus with College Game Day.

It is unclear what will happen with the five-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion once Barrett returns to NXT when McAfee comes back to SmackDown.

In addition to providing commentary for NXT, Booker T has called the action on both Raw and SmackDown.

The Elite returned at AEW Full Gear at the Prudential Center to a great reaction. They came to the ring to “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas and battled Death Triangle in a Trios match.

• 11 Best Moments from AEW Full Gear 2022

Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks came up short in their return match but it was later announced that they would get another shot at the titles, six of them in fact. Death Triangle are currently in a Best of 7 Series for the Trios Championships.

PAC and the Lucha Brothers are up 2-0, with both matches being one by Death Triangle striking The Elite with a hammer. AEW Dynamite aired from the Wintrust Arena in Chicago last week.

The crowd was all over the place during the match, with some fans chanting “f*** CM Punk!” and “f*** The Elite!”. All Elite Wrestling EVPs Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks took the opportunity to mock CM Punk two and a half months after All Out. Matt Jackson mocked CM Punk for missing the Buckshot Lariat, Kenny Omega did the GTS and bit his opponent.

Booker T on The Elite Mocking CM Punk

Booker T discussed Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks mocking CM Punk months after AEW All Out on his Hall of Fame podcast.

The two-time WWE Hall of Famer said he doesn’t see the benefit of rehashing the CM Punk issue again if he’s not coming back and noted that it does nothing for the company.

Booker T went on to say that it was childish and he’s had beef with wrestlers in the past before but they were able to move passed it. He added that today’s generation of wrestlers doesn’t fear consequences and lacks locker-room etiquette.

H/T: Wrestling Inc

Booker T is set to return to the ring as the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion announced on his Hall of Fame podcast that he would wrestle again on December 18 for Reality of Wrestling.

Booker T is slated to team with Mysterious Q to challenge Fly Def (Zack Mason & Warren Johnson) for the ROW Tag Team Championships at the show. 

His Previous Match

Booker last wrestled at ROW Summer OF Champions VIII in July by teaming with (Blake Cortez, Bryan Keith, Gasper Hernandez & Mysterious Q) where they lost to Team Sharmell (Edge Stone, Gino Medina, Ryan Davidson, Stephen Wolf & Will Allday).

A few months ago, Pat McAfee went on hiatus from his duties as the WWE SmackDown color commentator, so they moved NXT’s Wade Barrett to the role and brought in Booker to do commentary for NXT.

Booker achieved a lot of success with 35 championships across WWE, WCW, and Impact Wrestling. He is the most decorated wrestler in WCW history, holding a total of 21 titles, including a record six WCW World Television Championships and a record eleven WCW World Tag Team Championships, 10 of which he won with his brother Stevie Ray in WCW (the most reigns in that company), and one in the WWE with Test. Booker served as the final WCW United States Heavyweight Champion and WCW World Heavyweight Champion.

In April 2013, Stevie Rae presented him with his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. He and Ray were both inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019.

Booker T had a dream run in WCW. He started off at the bottom as part of the Harlem Heat tag team and worked his way up to the main event scenes, eventually becoming the final WCW champion in the history of the company. Apart from his talent, Booker’s luck played a big part in his success, including his first singles title in the company.

The wrestling veteran recently appeared on Ryan Satin’s Out of Character. Talking about WCW, the former world champion mentioned how he got to learn a lot during his time in the company. T then recalled how he won his first singles title because Rick Martel had forgotten to bring his wrestling boots:

“I miss WCW. I had a great time getting polished up, to cut my teeth in WCW working with a lot of great talent. Just getting a chance more than anything. That’s the only thing I was looking for in WCW – a chance and an opportunity.” said Booker T, “I got several opportunities in that company. Every time I got an opportunity, I pretty much cashed in on it. When I got the Television Championship, it was because Rick Martel had forgotten his boots. He forgot his boots and he was supposed to win the championship that night from Disco Inferno.

He thought he was coming to TV just to do an interview but they still had to get the title off Disco. So they said ‘Book, we’re gonna put the title on you and we’re gonna give Rick Martel a couple of weeks down the road. When [will] that [be] we’ll figure that out. We’re gonna put it on you tonight.’ I was thinking ‘Man you put the title on me, you’re never gonna get it back. I’m gonna hold onto that title forever. What are you thinking.'”

You can check out Booker T’s full interview below:

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If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription