Legendary trailblazer Sweet Daddy Siki has passed away at the age of 91 following a long battle with dementia.
Siki made his name greatly known as a big personality and talent, wrestling all over North America before becoming notorious for training the likes of Adam Copeland and Christian Cage.
He became one of the first big African-American heels and leaned into that role as he and promotions pushed the envelope.
Siki, real name Elkin James, infamously took on “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers in Greensboro, NC, which according to Siki had the Klu Klux Klan picketing outside the Greensboro Coliseum. Siki also felt the wrath of promoters due to his interracial marriage. Siki also worked a great deal for Stu Hart up in Calgary for Stampede Wrestling.
WWE took to social media to pay tribute to Siki, stating “WWE is saddened to learn that Elkin James, known to wrestling fans as Sweet Daddy Siki, passed away on December 31, 2024, at age 91. WWE extends its condolences to Siki’s family, friends and fans.”
WWE is saddened to learn that Elkin James, known to wrestling fans as Sweet Daddy Siki, passed away on December 31, 2024, at age 91.
WWE extends its condolences to Siki’s family, friends and fans.
Rest in Peace, Sweet Daddy Siki, a pro wrestling trailblazer if ever there was one. One of the first successful Black wrestling heels, not to mention one of the last surviving wrestlers of the 1950s. And still a Toronto legend to this day. #RIPSweetDaddySikipic.twitter.com/ktlZeuzflR
Christian Cage has reinvented himself while competing in AEW after joining the promotion a few years ago. However, he recently tried to bring back a nickname that he got over and used in WWE for years.
In the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that Cage tried to trademark the term ‘Captain Charisma’ and was opposed by WWE.
It’s unclear whether Cage will appeal the filing as of this writing. Some fans could argue that he doesn’t need the name, considering his placement in AEW since joining the rival promotion in 2021 after returning to in-ring action after years of being in retirement.
Cage was hyped as Tony Khan’s Hall of Fame-worthy talent signing at the time. Since then, he has been used in a top position, challenging for the World Heavyweight Title and holding the TNT Title multiple times. He currently holds the right to a World Title shot of his choosing, something he attempted to cash in on at Full Gear last Saturday on AEW World Heavyweight Champion Jon Moxley only to be stopped.
After opting to sign with AEW over WWE, he filed to regain the trademark rights to the Christian Cage name. Cage was last in action on the November 13th episode of Dynamite when he teamed with Hangman Page to beat Bang Bang Gang (Jay White & Juice Robinson) in a tag team match.
Bret Hart may go by ‘The Excellence of Execution’ but ‘Hitman’ himself may give that designation to the late great Leo Burke.
Burke, a pro wrestling legend out of Canada, sadly passed away on July 24, 2024 and Hart shared a beautiful tribute on his social media, noting of the legacy Leo left on the industry and on himself.
Less than a week ago, I got to speak with Bret Hart in detail about Burke’s influence on not just him, but other wrestlers who have left an impact on the business
How Bret Hart Learned From Leo Burke
Burke made a pro wrestling name for himself wrestling for the likes of Stu Hart, The Funks, Jim Crockett and so many other names across the globe. Hart was familiar with Burke when Leo first got his start in 1966. Bret was just a kid at the time, but remembered Burke came into Calgary with a ‘Batman’ gimmick, and while the memory stuck with Bret, the gimmick didn’t for Burke, who became a big star for Stu Hart and a good in-ring rival for Bret while in Stampede. Bret noted what a master of ring psychology Burke was. He credited both Leo and the late Dynamite Kid for helping him become in-ring legend he is today.
“Like I learned so much from both Dynamite and Leo, that when I think of like my style and my career, and how I maybe blossomed as a wrestler in WWF, it was all because of both those guys.”
“”I picked up the ring bell and I’ m gonna take it over the apron and take it in the ring and I’m gonna brain Steve Austin with the bell, and I walk over and I set it on the apron and then I change my mind and then I go over and get a chair, I pick up one chair and I go, ‘Ah this one’s not good enough, it’s got padding on it,’ or something. I pick up a metal chair and go, ‘This is perfect,’ and I forget all about the bell, slide under the bottom rope and I’m going to the ring and I’ m working Steve over with a chair.
“I mean everyone forgets about the the bell then, and the bell is the key right sitting on the apron for the whole thing … that’ s a real Burke type of [move]. You know he would tell you, ‘They’ll forget all about the bell.’
“those are the kind of things that Leo taught me like to think ahead and how to think, imagine things. He WAS SUCH A MASTER CLASS.”
The ‘Master Class’ Of Leo Burke With Adam Copeland
Bret mentioned how historic names like Harley Race and Terry Funk would revere Burke’s talent in god-like fashion and Burke eventually got to instill that knowledge into major names of the late 1990s. Adam Copeland, Christian Cage, Ken Shamrock and Mark Henry all learned under Leo Burke up in Calgary while Bret worked in WWE.
“Leo would train them, and Leo got paid the same every day, he got a certain check every week, and he would just have classes. He would tell everyone what time to come, and Test was another one that was there.
“He was one of those guys I met him in Toronto; he was a bouncer at a club, and I remember the next day he was sitting in my living room.
“And Leo was training all these guys, and I remember I would come home from being on the road, and then Leo would say, ‘ Could you just work with one guy?'”
That one guy was Copeland.
“I did it with Edge, I remember wrestling Edge, I did it with a couple of guys, I remember, it might have been Mark Henry, and I remember, I’ m like, ‘I am so beat up.’
“I’ ve been on the road for six weeks or something, and I come home and Leo’ s like, ‘Can you just come in for a couple of weeks? Just a couple.’ I didn’ t even care, you know? I was the one that would do it, I’ d be so sore I’ d spend the afternoon in there taking arm drags and stuff, like that, working stuff out.”
Hart commented on how much he garnered from working with and being around Leo, who had a great sense of humor and was a big factor at making life on the road fun, pulling light-hearted, yet memorable ribs on his brothers and other workers. However, if there was one thing Hitman would want wrestlers today to take note of by studying Burke, it would be the best thing he was known for.
“I would you think if there’s a big aspect you want them to take away from him, I would say Leo was most famous for his psychology.”
Vince McMahon allegedly had no appreciation for the talent of Christian Cage while in WWE, but someone who does is his current boss Tony Khan.
Cage trended on social media on Thursday night after former WWE commentator Todd Grisham shared an antedote that Vince McMahon once gave him on the headset to hype Christian to the ring. Cage was set to go against then ECW Champion Jack Swagger, but Grisham very much undersold the surprise that was Christian Cage.
Cage did have a World Heavyweight Title reign while in WWE, but the veteran could still that in AEW. The company’s ‘Father Figure’ has a World Title contract he can cash in at anytime.
As it stands now, Jon Moxley will challenge Bryan Danielson for the AEW World Championship this Saturday night at WrestleDream, but one of wrestling’s top heels isn’t beyond inserting himself into the equation. Cage has tried to do so previously against Danielson, but was thwarted by Claudio Castagnoli and PAC.
Christan Cage won’t stop speaking his mind on AEW programming, especially when it comes to bringing up the deceased parents of others on the roster.
Since turning heel in June 2022, Cage has transformed into a loathsome individual in AEW who often shocks fans with his promos. One of Cage’s most cutting lines sees him bring up an opponent’s deceased father. Those subject to this particular line from Cage include Jack Perry, Brian Pillman Jr. (now Lexis King), Wardlow, and Nick Wayne.
On a recent edition of the Insight podcast, Cage spoke about his promos in AEW. When asked if he can believe the stuff he’s allowed to say, Cage revealed that he doesn’t consult with AEW management before he grabs the mic.
“I’ve never told anybody what I’m going to say. I’ve never had it cleared with anybody. I’ve never asked anybody. I just go out there and do it. It’s one of those things.
Addressing his dead father comments, Cage reflected on how this line of attack has allowed him the chance to stick out on AEW’s massive roster.
“You have to be willing to go places others are unwilling to go to stand out, especially in this day and age. I saw an opportunity that I could jump on and I took it and I wrote it. Sometimes things happen and you’re not expecting to happen. I said one phrase and it turned into a wildfire and I just embraced it and ran with it.
When asked if he felt any remorse, Cage made it clear he would not apologize for anything he’s said. With that in mind, fans of AEW can expect plenty more shocking comments, many about parents, to come from the Canadian veteran.
The AEW World Championship reign of Swerve Strickland is going strong after retaining the gold against Christian Cage at Double or Nothing 2024.
In the penultimate match of the night, Strickland and Cage met with Swerve having Prince Nana in his corner while Cage had the might of the Patriarchy. With the numbers advantage in his favor, Christian took the early advantage. Things went from bad to worse for the champion after interference from Nick Wayne resulted in Prince Nana being ejected from the ringside area.
They always get the second guy! Nick Wayne's underhanded tactics get Prince Nana ejected!
Despite this, Strickland was able to fight back and withstand all that Cage was able to deliver. The finish of the match saw Swerve hit his patented Swerve Stomp and Swerve’s House to get the win and retain the gold.
After retaining the title, Strickland had quite the celebration and even shared the screen with boxing legend (and WWE WrestleMania 24 competitor) Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather.
With the AEW World Championship still in his possession, Swerve Strickland will now look ahead to his next title match which will come at the AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view. On the May 29, edition of AEW Dynamite, a Casino Battle Royale will determine Strickland’s opponent at the upcoming crossover event. At this time, no names have been confirmed for the battle royale.
AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door 2024 will on Sunday, June 30, 2024, from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. It will be the third annual Forbidden Door event and once again see AEW talent and stars from New Japan Pro Wrestling face off. Keep tuned to SE Scoops for all the news regarding AEW and the Forbidden Door show.
AEW Double or Nothing is happening tonight in Las Vegas, and fans can expect some surprises. One possible surprise is the appearance of Gangrel on the pay-per-view.
Gangrel, also known as The Vampire Warrior, was initially advertised for the WrestlingKult event in Germany on the 24th and 25th. However, the event stopped promoting his appearance.
— Wrestlingkult – WK (@WrestlingKult16) May 1, 2024
Adam Copeland, formerly known as Edge, is set for a barbed wire steel cage match against Malakai Black at Double or Nothing. Copeland has been making many Brood references recently, including a bloodbath segment on Dynamite to build up the match.
Die letzten Stunden des VVK sind angebrochen. Um 22 Uhr ist Zapfenstreich. Lasst euch diesen Kader nicht entgehen!
Speaking with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Copeland was open about his attempt to revive the Brood entrance for WWE Day 1 in 2022. He wanted Gangrel to join him, reminiscent of their Attitude Era days, but WWE rejected the idea, believing fans wouldn’t remember. Copeland disagreed, feeling that wrestling fans appreciate nostalgia and should be rewarded for their loyalty. Despite his efforts, WWE shut down the idea, and Copeland realized it wasn’t his decision to make.
Copeland also mentioned starting talks with AEW right after his WWE contract expired. He referenced Matt Cardona’s recent return to AEW, where Cardona challenged him for the TNT Championship, recognizing that fans remember Cardona’s ‘Edge Head’ days. Although WWE didn’t support bringing back Gangrel, Copeland continues to find ways to engage the audience through his work in AEW, leaving the possibility of Gangrel’s appearance open.
Christian Cage, another member of The Brood, is also scheduled for a major match at AEW Double or Nothing. He will face Swerve Strickland for the AEW Title, a match that has become personal with many insults about Swerve’s personal life and career.
You can find the full AEW Double or Nothing card below. The pay-per-view starts at 8:00 EST, with a Zero-Hour show beginning at 6:30 PM EST.
Thunder Rosa vs. Deonna Purrazzo: Singles match (Zero-Hour Match)
The Acclaimed (Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, and “Daddy Ass” Billy Gunn) vs. Cage of Agony (Brian Cage and Gates of Agony (Toa Liona and Bishop Kaun)): Trios match (Zero-Hour Match)
Adam Copeland (c) vs. Malakai Black: Barbed Wire Steel Cage match for the AEW TNT Championship
Roderick Strong (c) (with Matt Taven and Mike Bennett) vs. Will Ospreay: Singles match for the AEW International Championship
Bang Bang Gang (Jay White and The Gunns (Austin Gunn and Colten Gunn)) (c) vs. Death Triangle (Pac, Rey Fénix, and Penta El Zero Miedo) (with Alex Abrahantes): Trios match for the Unified World Trios Championship
Chris Jericho (c) (with Big Bill) vs. Hook vs. Katsuyori Shibata: Three-way FTW Rules match for the FTW Championship
Jon Moxley vs. Konosuke Takeshita (with Don Callis): IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Eliminator match (If Takeshita wins, he will receive a future IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match)
“Timeless” Toni Storm (c) (with Luther and Mariah May) vs. Serena Deeb: Singles match for the AEW Women’s World Championship
Willow Nightingale (c) vs. Mercedes Moné: Singles match for the AEW TBS Championship
The Elite (Kazuchika Okada, Jack Perry, and The Young Bucks (Matthew Jackson and Nicholas Jackson)) vs. Team AEW (Bryan Danielson, Darby Allin, and FTR (Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood)): Anarchy in the Arena match
Swerve Strickland (c) (with Prince Nana) vs. Christian Cage (with Killswitch, Nick Wayne, and Mother Wayne): Singles match
Welcome to the Daily Drop for Saturday, May 4. WWE Backlash is this afternoon, and fans are waiting for that historic event. We have a lot of other things we must mention as well.
WWE released several NXT Superstars from their contracts on Friday. Aside from Drew Gulak, the biggest name that the company cut was Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson. Things just never panned out for him in the company, despite years of trying to get him ready for a massive spot that they wanted to carve out for him.
We have updated our 2024 WWE release and departure tracker, which you can check out here.
Let’s get into today’s Daily Drop!
WWE:
WWE Backlash is upon us, and the show will start much sooner for fans in the United States. The France-based event will start at 1:00 PM EST. You can find the card below.
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka & Kairi Sane) (c) vs. Bianca Belair & Jade Cargill
Randy Orton & Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga)
WWE Women’s Championship: Bayley (c) vs. Naomi vs. Tiffany Stratton
World Heavyweight Championship: Damian Priest (c) vs. Jey Uso
Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes (c). vs. AJ Styles
WWE’s Noise Warning: The SmackDown fans received a noise warning in France. We can only imagine how loud it will be for Backlash.
WWE Speed: The company has a new champion after the first WWE Speed tournament is over. In the end, Ricochet pulled down the championship, which earned him a classic point pose photo with Triple H.
No Collision: AEW Collision will not air this week due to the playoffs. They will resume their weekly Saturday night schedule next week on May 11.
Christian’s HOF Stance: Christian Cage appeared at the Steel City Comic Con, where he was his trademark self. When asked about whether he wants to get into the WWE Hall of Fame, he replied: “I could give two sh*ts bout the Hall of Fame … when there is a Hall of Fame, let me know.”
Christian Cage at Steel City Con was asked about not being inducted in the WWE HOF yet:
“I could give two shits out about the Hall of Fame. When there's actually is a Hall of Fame, let me know.” pic.twitter.com/aw0DoMTVTX
Former WWE NXT Superstar Debut: During the recent ROH Honorclub show, Amari Miller debuted under the new ring name Camron Branae. She faced Nyla Rose in her first match for the brand. Although Branae lost the bout, she made a strong impression on the fans.
Julia Hart Return Timeline: We have an injury update on Julia Hart. She has already gone through a surgery and will be out of action for a few months from now. The earliest one can expect for her to return to the ring would be late Summer or early Fall.
Adam Copeland puts a lot of thought into his ring gear during special matches. He had quite a contest against Christian Cage in Toronto this week. He also had gear made up, and some fans might recognize the theme.
Edge wore Maple Leaf themed gear in his final WWE match in Toronto, a homage to his Canadian roots. Now, returning to Toronto for an AEW Dynamite main event as Christian Cage, Adam Copeland continues to honor his heritage with similar attire, symbolizing his enduring connection to the city.
Adam Copeland Gear
In a meaningful nod to his Canadian roots, Edge covered his ring gear in Maple Leaf-themed attire during his final WWE match in Toronto, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans and symbolized his connection to the city. That was his final WWE match, but his pro wrestling journey was far from over.
This ends RIGHT NOW! Adam Copeland challenges “The Patriarch” Christian Cage for the #TNT Championship in an I QUIT MATCH!
Now, in a twist of fate, Adam Copeland was set to return to Toronto, this time under an AEW banner. As Copeland stepped into the main event spotlight of AEW Dynamite, he continued to honor his Canadian heritage by donning Maple Leaf-themed gear, bridging the past and present while paying homage to his wrestling legacy in the city where it all began.
In the end, Copeland was able to beat Christian Cage in an I Quit match to claim the victory. We’re not sure if it was the Maple Leaf design on the tights, but we’re guessing it didn’t hurt his chances.
Edge wore Maple Leaf themed gear in his last WWE match in Toronto.
Adam Copeland is wearing Maple Leaf themed gear in his return to Toronto in the main event of AEW Dynamite! pic.twitter.com/hlMwRmNKCr
— A Kenny For Your Thoughts (@_kennythoughts) March 21, 2024
What’s Next For Copeland in AEW
Adam Copeland chased the AEW TNT Title for a while. He briefly won that title before at Worlds End, but Christian Cage was able to quickly win the belt back. Now, it appears that Copeland will get a much longer run with the title than under five minutes.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more from all over the pro wrestling world. Keep checking back for more updates as more headlines break from all over the pro wrestling world.
Adam Copeland entered AEW as a WWE Hall of Famer already. Now, he as picked up a title in another company. Copeland’s big chase of Christian Cage and the TNT Title has come to an end once again.
On AEW Dynamite this week, Adam Copeland took on Christian Cage with the TNT Title on the line in an I Quit match. In the end, the Rated R Superstar was able to claim the gold after a bloody contest to become a two-time TNT Champion.
Christian vs Adam Copeland
The rivalry between Christian Cage and Adam Copeland has intensified since the former Edge joined AEW last year. Copeland’s return sparked a heated confrontation, leading to an ‘I Quit’ match for the TNT championship in their hometown of Toronto on AEW Dynamite.
What will Christian Cage have to do to keep his #TNT Championship in this I QUIT MATCH against Adam Copeland?
The match included a few foreign objects, backstage brawls, and there was also blood. Both Cage and Copeland tore each other apart during the live show on TBS.
Adam Copeland took out Christian Cage's whole family with one dive.
Despite interference from The Patriarchy, Copeland received backup from Daddy Magic and Daniel Garcia. Finally, with Cage handcuffed and vulnerable, Copeland delivered a final blow, forcing Cage to submit as a new TNT champion was crowned.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more, as we continue down the road toward AEW Dynasty and beyond. Keep checking back throughout the day for constant updates.
Imitation is considered the sincerest form of flattery, and Christian Cage certainly felt flattered during a segment on this week’s WWE Monday Night Raw.
“You know why everyone boo’s you? You don’t belong here. You think the internet hates you? You should hear what the girls in the locker room say. It’s a good thing your dead brother isn’t here to see what an embarrassment you’ve become.”
Christian Cage Weighs In
LeRae’s comment about Maxxine’s brother has spawned a debate about whether WWE went too far in the name of entertainment. Plenty of people have taken to social media to share their take on the situation. In a tweet of his own, Christian Cage didn’t mention the segment by name, but said how everybody wants to be him. As the comments showed, it’s clear that the AEW TNT Champion who has a tendency to bring up dead relatives was talking about LeRae’s comment on Raw.
They ALL want to be me
— Jay 'Christian' Reso (@Christian4Peeps) March 12, 2024
Maxxine Dupri’s Brother
Wyatt Zmrzel passed away at the age of 22 after a life of numerous challenges. Wyatt was born with adrenoleukodystrophy; a rare genetic condition that affected his ability to use the right side of his body and left him prone to seizures.
Due to adrenoleukodystrophy, Wyatt relied on car services for transportation. In December 2017, a Lyft driver made a turn onto a highway at a rural intersection. The Lyft vehicle collided with a Toyota 4-Runner, killing Zmrzel.
On the March 6, episode of AEW Dynamite, Copeland ambushed Cage and challenged him to an I-Quit natch for the TNT Championship for the March 20, episode. The choice of date is no coincidence, as the show will take place in Toronto, Canada.
On the March 9, edition of AEW Collision, Copeland once again got the better of Cage and the Patriarchy. He also teased having a surprise for Cage when they next face for the TNT Championship. Taking to Twitter, Copeland continued to tease having something special for his former friend.
Hopefully, Copeland’s surprise will help nullify the numbers advantage that the Patriarchy gives the reigning AEW TNT Champion. In addition to Killswitch, Cage has Nick Wayne at his beck and call, as well as Mama Wayne. Copeland has some allies of his own in AEW, including Darby Allin and FTR.
Adam Copeland may be at odds with Christian Cage on AEW television, but the former Edge appreciates what his best buddy is doing.
Speaking with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, Copeland commented on Cage’s run as an ultimate heel and noted why the current TNT Champion is so good at what he does.
“He does this so well because he wants to be one,” said Copeland. “Somewhere along the way, that’s got lost. Heels became cooler than the babyface. That’s not how it should be. That’s not how he sees it, either. I mean, the man wears a cut-off turtleneck. There’s nothing cool about what he’s doing.
“He’s fully committed to it. He’s a Bond villain and loving it. It’s fun to be involved with.”
Copeland finally crossed pathes with Cage not just on AEW Dynamite but World’s End where the WWE Hall Of Famer actually defeated Cage for the TNT Championship, but quickly lost it back to Killswitch, who won a battle royal earlier in the evening. The belt went back to Cage who continues his heelish run.
Adam Copeland On AEW Being Different: “I Want More Choices”
When it comes to AEW being an alternative than WWE, Copeland pulled from his own fandom as a kid and getting access to different territories in wrestling.
“I remember growing up and dying to be able to get my hands on NWA tapes. It didn’t air where I lived, where there was WWF. I found International Wrestling from Montreal. I found All Star Wrestling from Vancouver. I found all these other shows, and I loved that. I’d get little snippets of guys I’d only seen in magazines. Then the show Pro Wrestling Plus with Ed Whalen, who was the announcer for Stampede, started, and I finally got to see wrestlers from the NWA and Continental. I just thought, give it all to me.”
Adam Copeland had a WWE contract renewal in his inbox, but he decided against signing it. He wanted something else out of this chapter of his career, and he is finding it in AEW.
Adam Copeland Is Having Fun In AEW
Since arriving in AEW, some fans have noticed that Adam Copeland has worked with a variety of people, including an old frenemy in Christian Cage. The fact that Copeland is holding open challenge matches is also proof that anyone could face him next.
During a conversation with Busted Open Radio, Adam Copeland made it very clear that he wants to have as much fun as possible with his life. Wrestling is his first love, and it’s also a pleasure to work in that world, so he is making the most of every opportunity he can.
Anything I do at this stage of life has to be fun or I’m not going to do it. Wrestling was the first love and it always will be. That can never be taken away. I still find so much fun. The minute it stops being fun is the minute I need to be done. Because it was taken away from me the first time, and then to come back, and have this whole new generation of talent that I’ve never performed with or got in there with. It’s fun. I’ve repeatedly said how much fun I’m having. That’s what it boils down to. No matter what I’m doing, I’m having fun, or I wouldn’t be doing it. I wouldn’t be wrestling Griff Garrison if I didn’t find the fun in that. I wouldn’t be wrestling Lee Moriarty if I didn’t find the fun in that. It’s just a blast.
Copeland later stated that he’s still having fun while wrestling. At this stage in his career, the Rated R Superstar wouldn’t keep going if he wasn’t enjoying himself.
This may sound like a lie, but I’m at a stage in life where, if it’s not fun, I don’t need the money. I know that sounds really bad, but I was always really smart. I still drive a pick-up truck. I don’t waste my money. It hurt too much to make. If I’m doing it, it’s purely for the joy of it.
Adam Copeland’s Road in AEW So Far
Tony Khan was quick to place Adam Copeland right in a feud with Christian Cage, a spot he remains to this day. As the two carry on, it is evident that there are a lot more stories to tell that reek of awesomeness.
Adam Copeland had a hard-fought No DQ match at Worlds End in Long Island, and he actually won the AEW TNT Title while he was at it. Sadly for him, that reign was incredibly short-lived, but the Rated R Superstar has the battle wounds to prove he was in a war.
Adam Copeland vs Christian Cage at AEW Worlds End
Adam Copeland made his AEW debut at WrestleDream and the WWE Hall of Famer was off to the races with his old friend, Christian Cage. His feud with former friend Christian Cage reached its peak in a No DQ match at AEW Worlds End. Copeland initially won the title but faced surprising twists that led to its loss.
Killswitch, who won a battle royal for a #1 contender match previously on the show, came out and presented that contract to Christian, who cashed in like it was a Money in the Bank situation to steal the TNT Title back. Now, Adam Copeland is revealing the aftermath of the intense match.
”It’s not a tumah! Now the work starts on becoming a 2 time TNT Champion.”
Adam Copeland and Christian Cage’s story in AEW doesn’t appear to be over yet. They are apparently going to stretch that feud into 2024, but they also have a lot of unfinished business between E&C.
The former Edge wants to hold the TNT Title again, and next time he wants it for more than 3 minutes.
Adam Copeland has suffered bumps and bruises for decades at this point, so that gash on his head isn’t going to keep him down. If anything, the blood in that AEW Worlds End match only added to the drama.
Adam Copeland captured the AEW TNT Championship at Worlds End, in his first title win in over a decade, but the Canadian’s run with the gold was very short-lived.
Since joining AEW at WrestleDream, Copeland has been feuding with his former friend and ex-tag team partner Christian Cage. The two faced off for the TNT title in Montreal earlier this month on an episode of Dynamite in a match that Cage would win.
Adam Copeland Wins (and Loses)
In a No-Disqualification match at AEW Worlds End, Cage and Copeland held nothing back in their efforts to leave Long Island with the TNT Championship. As the winners of the first two TLC matches, it was fitting that the bout featured Tables, Ladders, and Chairs. In the end, Copeland hit Cage with Christian’s own Killswitch finisher to get the win and become the new TNT Champion.
This was an emotional win for Copeland, as it was his first time winning a championship since he captured the WWE World Heavyweight Championship from Dolph Ziggler in early 2011. Unfortunately for the Hall of Famer, his time on top was short-lived. After the match, Killswitch (formerly Luchasaurus) hit the ring with a guaranteed TNT Championship match contract Killswitch had won the opportunity during the Zero-Hour pre-show battle royal.
Look who’s here to cash in their TNT Title Shot!!! KILLSWITCH!
Rather than challenge Copeland, Killswitch surrendered that contract to Christian who had the match restarted. Cage then used Copeland’s finisher, a spear, to win the title back.
This makes Copeland a history maker in AEW, but not in a good way. The Canadian legend now holds the record for the shortest title reign in the history of the company.
AEW Worlds End is just a week away and it has been made official that Adam Copeland will face Christian Cage at the pay-per-view. Two more title matches have been announced as well.
Following a surprising defeat in the headlining match in Montreal, Quebec, on AEW Dynamite, Adam Copeland issued a challenge to Christian Cage to a no-disqualification match. On last night’s AEW Collision which emanated from the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas, Christian Cage gave his response.
Cage also accepted Copeland’s challenge and the match will see Cage put his TNT Championship on the line. During the show, Shayna Wayne also explained why she helped Cage defeat Copeland.
Cage said he would accept Copeland’s challenge to a fight because according to him, it’s not a challenge as he’s already beaten him.
Meanwhile, Hook also accepted a challenge from Wheeler Yuta, and the match will take place for the FTW Championship in an FTW Rules match at Worlds End. Hook, while accepting the challenge stated that he would do it under his rules.
It was also confirmed that TBS Champion Julia Hart will defend her title against Abadon, as the two have ignited a feud in recent weeks. On Saturday’s Collision, Thunder Rosa and Abadon teamed up and faced Julia Hart and Skye Blue in a winning effort.
TNT Champion "The Patriarch" Christian Cage will defend the title vs "Rated R Superstar" Adam Copeland in a No DQ Match NEXT SATURDAY at Worlds End ppv! pic.twitter.com/N0YolWhk9F
TBS Champion Julia Hart will defend the title vs Abadon NEXT SATURDAY at Worlds End, but first they clash TONIGHT next on TNT on #AEWCollision in a huge tag bout! pic.twitter.com/e4X4s1koG5
Fans tuning in to this weekend’s AEW Revolution 2023 Pay-Per-View will see one wrestler on the show receive their ‘final burial.’
Last June, Christian Cage turned heel on Jungle Boy Jack Perry, attacking the young star after he and Luchasaurus lost the AEW World Tag Team Championship to The Young Bucks.
This betrayal would also mark the end of Jurassic Express, as Luchasaurus would align himself with Cage as part of the feud.
Burial
During last night’s AEW Rampage, Jungle Boy appeared in a video promo and said that a fight with Cage isn’t enough, and he looks to end the Canadian veteran.
Jungle Boy vowed that there will be “grave consequences” for Cage, who has referenced Jack’s father Luke Perry as part of their feud.
The actor, best known for roles in Beverly Hills 90210 and CW’s Riverdale, died in March 2019, and his passing has been used for heat by Cage.
Jungle Boy said that he’ll allow Cage to say ‘hi’ to his dad, and promised that their match at Revolution will be the “final burial.”
While not sharing the same name as WWE’s Buried Alive match, the Final Burial has clear similarities to the bout.
WWE’s first Buried Alive match came in 1996, when Mankind defeated The Undertaker, and the Phenom would also lost the second match against ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin in 1998.
It wouldn’t be until the August 30, 1999, edition of SmackDown that The Undertaker would win a buried alive match, teaming with the Big Show to defeat the Rock ‘n Sock Connection.
Unfortunately for the Phenom, he would lose the two following matches, losing to Mr. McMahon at Survivor Series 2003 (thanks to the interference of Kane) and being bested by his brother (thanks to the interference of the Nexus) at Bragging Rights 2010.
On AEW Dynamite, “Jungle Boy” Jack Perry defeated Brian Cage. As he was going up the ramp after the match, the familiar music and countdown appeared on the screen. His mentor-turned-nemesis, Christian Cage, had returned.
Cage was still wearing a cast and shoulder sling when Perry came at him. Cage sprayed Perry with something in the face. He removed his arm contraptions in order to put “Jungle Boy” in the Killswitch Engage and left him laid out on the ramp.
Matt Hardy has big plans for his final-ever match, including facing a WWE Hall of Famer.
Hardy’s wrestling career began in 1992 and has seen Matt hold gold in WWE, TNA/Impact Wrestling, and Ring of Honor.
In April 2020, Hardy made his debut for All Elite Wrestling where he competes to this day.
Retirement
With 30 years in the wrestling business, Matt is fully aware that his days as an active competitor are coming to an end.
Speaking on his ‘Extreme Life’ podcast, Hardy revealed that he wants The Hardy Boyz’ final match to be against Edge & Christian.
“Our rivalry is just so iconic. I feel like that would be a pretty amazing way to end it, having one last match with those guys.”
Matt Hardy.
No Mercy 1999
The Hardys and Edge & Christian faced off countless times in WWE, but perhaps their best-known match took place at No Mercy 1999.
In the finals of the Terri Invitation Tournament (or T.I.T as Jerry Lawler reminded fans on commentary), the two teams faced off in the first tag-team ladder match in WWE history.
With their win, the Hardyz (then known as the New Brood) won $100,000 and the managerial services of Terri Runnels.
In their memoirs, ‘Exist 2 Inspire’ the Hardyz wrote that the four celebrated the match backstage with beers, the first time either Matt or Jeff drank alcohol.
The death-defying spots would cement both teams as ‘legitimate’ in the eyes of fans, with John Powell of SLAM! Wrestling writing at the time that the match overshadowed the Triple H Vs. Steve Austin WWF Title main event.
Christian Cage has joined the list of AEW wrestlers who will need to take a long break from AEW programming due to an injury.
The former WWE star competed in a very short match at the All Out PPV. He defeated Jungle Boy with a spear and a killswitch in just 33 seconds. Jungle Boy was attacked by Luchasaurus before the match began.
A lot of people wondered about the length of the bout. After the PPV it was revealed that the wrestling veteran is actually dealing with an injury.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer provided the latest update on Christian recently. He confirmed that the AEW star will be out of action for 6 to 9 months:
“His injury may be the exact same injury as [CM] Punk. So we’re talking again like an eight-month-ish, six-to-nine months of being out.”
CM Punk suffered the injury during his AEW World Championship match against Jon Moxley at All Out. It’s believed that he suffered a torn triceps that will see him stay out of action for the remainder of the year.
Christian has joined the list of AEW stars that are expected to stay out of action for the foreseeable future with Punk and Thunder Rosa.
In WWE, Christian captured the World Heavyweight Championship for the first time in 2011, after the title had been vacated following the retirement of Edge.
This was the highest peak of Christian’s WWE career, which also included reigns as ECW Champion, Intercontinental Champion, and several tag titles.
For many fans, Christian’s World Championship win was a long-time coming, as fans had followed his career since 1998 both in WWE and later in TNA Wrestling.
Parents Know Best
Cage’s two WWE World Heavyweight Championships were something fans (or rather ‘peeps’) were thrilled to see, but it could’ve happened much earlier.
In his new memoir, ‘There’s Just One Problem…: True Tales from the Former, One-Time, 7th Most Powerful Person in WWE’ former WWE head writer Brian Gewirtz recalled writing for Saturday Night Live as The Rock’s writer, and dropped a bombshell on Cage.
“SNL doesn’t really like outsides, especially friends of the host coming in and attempting to write material. As someone who’s received countless pitches from friends agents and even wrestlers’ parents who feel their prodigy should be Champion *cough* Christian *cough* I completely got the mindset.”
Gewirtz didn’t specify which title Mr. and Mrs. Cage pitched for his son to win, though it’s believed to be a World title.
Christian Today
Last year, Cage made his in-ring return, nearly seven years after his last match, competing in the 2021 WWE Men’s Royal Rumble match.
Despite this, Cage would leave the promotion, and join AEW at their March 2021 Revolution Pay Per View.
At this year’s Road Rager edition of AEW Dynamite, Cage turned heel, attacking Jungle Boy after he and Luchasaurus lost the AEW World Tag Team Titles to the Young Bucks.
AEW star Jungle Boy and Christian Cage have been in a feud on Dynamite for the past two months. Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus were known as Jurassic Express in the promotion, and Christian served as their manager during their reign as AEW Tag Team Champions.
However, the 48-year-old betrayed Jungle Boy at AEW Dynamite: Road Rager and even convinced Luchasaurus to turn heel for a couple of weeks. Christian has made it even more personal with references to Jungle Boy’s mother and his recently passed father, famous actor Luke Perry.
He recently challenged Christian to a match at AEW All Out on September 4th and brutally attacked him on this past Wednesday’s episode of Dynamite. Jungle Boy has since responded with a promo of his own and beat Christian down on last week’s episode of Dynamite.
Jim Cornette Wonders If Jungle Boy Will Figure It Out
On a recent episode of the Jim Cornette Experience, he was very critical of Jungle Boy and wondered if he was ever going to “get it”.
Does Jungle Boy have it? Is it going to come out? If it was, would it have come out by now? Verbally, speaking on television, having any kind of passion or emotion. Are all people of his age bracket this boring?
Jim Cornette on Jungle Boy
Co-host Brian Last suggested that Jungle Boy may find more success down the road as a heel but Cornette wasn’t optimistic. Jim claimed that the only way he could pull that off was if Jurassic Express reunited as heels, and Jungle Boy played the role of an instigator hiding behind Luchasaurus.
While Jungle Boy may not be dynamic on the microphone yet, he’s already established himself as one of the talents with the most potential on the AEW roster. The 25-year-old’s match against Christian Cage at all All Out will be the biggest match of his young career.
Do you agree with Jim Cornette’s assessment of Jungle Boy or do you believe he will be one of AEW’s biggest stars down the line? Let us know in the comments section below.
Former AEW wrestler Marko Stunt recently spoke with SEScoops correspondent Steve Fall for NBC Sports Boston about hearing his name on AEW Dynamite in a negative context during a heel Christian Cage promo.
“Let me put it this way: I was not aware. I was not aware that it was going to be said or anything or that when my name was going to be thrown out in any context because it hasn’t been since October and for them (AEW) to do it in that context I thought it’s kind of lame.”
He continued, ”I mean, it makes sense though in a way you know like I was and I was a part of that group before him and what he’s basically saying is he came in and got me fired. So in story sense, love it. In real life sense you know….it is what it is.”
Did Christian take Marko’s Spot in Jurassic Express?
A brotherhood shattered
Later, Marko Stunt was asked if he feels like Christian intentionally “took his spot” in Jurassic Express.
“I don’t think that he necessarily took my spot because we are two completely different roles for sure,” said Stunt. “I was more of a hype guy and he was more and he’s more of a more of a like leader role.”
Stunt says he didn’t think Christian added anything to Jurassic Express.
“I did not think that he fit with the group at all. I didn’t think he added any sort of dynamic. I think it would have been better to have him mentor, or really, what it was, was him mentoring Jack and that’s ultimately the the whole goal with that.”
I and you know they’re setting up Jack to do great things you know they’re setting him up to have this great push right now … and I’ve known that he was going to do that from the start. He’s one of my best friends that I made there and like we still talked to the day and he even texted me when it happened”.
Catch Steve Fall’s full interview with former AEW star Marko Stunt:
Another episode of AEW Dynamite is over and something took place after the June 15 airing.
AEW stacked this Road Rager special for Dynamite. Fans got to witness a stellar main event for the AEW World Tag Team Championships. The Young Bucks are now two-time AEW World Tag Team Champions after defeating Jurassic Express in a ladder match.
After the match, Christian Cage turned heel by hitting the Killswitch and a Conchairto on Jungle Boy.
That wasn’t all for the show as Will Ospreay and Dax Harwood had a fantastic match. Orange Cassidy also made his return from injury and it was announced that he’ll take on Ospreay at Forbidden Door.
After The Show
(via AEW)
Asa Gray was kind enough to send us the following recap of what transpired once the cameras stopped rolling:
“After they went off the air, Cage confronted the crowd and went to the back. Tony Khan came out to check on Jungle Boy, he apologized to the crowd for what we just saw and then plugged the Rampage matches. Moxley vs. Dante Martin. Jade Cargill vs. Willow Nightingale for the TBS title, Max Caster and The Ass Boys (Gunn Club) vs. Ruffin It (Leon Ruff & Bear Country), Darby vs. Bobby Fish.”
Here is footage of Tony Khan’s speech to the crowd following Dynamite:
