The wrestling world tragically lost Windham ‘Bray Wyatt’ Rotunda in August 2023, who died at the young age of 36 years old. Speaking at Monopoly Events’ For The Love of Wrestling convention in the UK, Jake Roberts, who many saw a lot of in the Bray Wyatt character, reflected on Rotunda’s passing.

“What a loss, just an incredible loss. I loved it, I loved everything that he did. I couldn’t wait to see what he was going to do next. God man, that one hurt. That one hurts.”

Roberts’ comments echo the feelings of many in the wrestling world. After Rotunda’s passing, WWE and promotions Rotunda had never worked for paid tribute to the former World Champion. WWE would also share that proceeds from Bray Wyatt merch would go to support his widow JoJo Offerman and Windham’s four children.

Though Rotunda is no longer with us, the late wrestler’s creative influence remains a significant presence on WWE programming. In 2024, WWE introduced the Wyatt Sicks, a macabre faction led by Uncle Howdy, whose character has clear ties to the three-time World Champion. Uncle Howdy is portrayed by Bo Dallas, with every idea for the group being from the mind of his late brother.

As we approach the two-year anniversary of his passing, the Bray Wyatt character remains in the hearts of fans and Hall of Famers alike. Though fans will never have the chance to see him compete, the legacy left by Windham Rotunda can never be taken away.

Jake “The Snake” Roberts has had one of the most tumultuous careers in professional wrestling history. On Six Feet Under with Mark Callaway, Roberts revealed how a WCW contract dispute triggered his worst personal spiral—and ultimately fueled his cocaine addiction.

In 1992, Roberts had negotiated a multi-million dollar deal with WCW’s Kip Frye. However, before he could sign, Vince McMahon enforced a 90-day no-compete clause as part of his WWF exit. When Roberts’ non-compete expired, Frye was gone, and Bill Watts had taken over WCW.

Watts discarded Roberts’ original contract and offered him a fraction of the deal, telling him:

“You and I both know you can’t go back. You’re gonna take what we give you.”

Roberts accepted, but WCW then stripped him of his signature gimmick by banning his snake.

“They took my gimmick away. Now I’m back to zero. What the f*** can I do?” he recalled.

That was the breaking point. “That right there pushed me off the deep end, brother. I really dug into the coke after that.”

Roberts acknowledged that his subsequent 20-year cocaine addiction nearly killed him, but at the time, he was just trying to cope with the loss of his career.

“Not many people have a 20-year cocaine career… by the grace of God, I’m not dead.”

His exit from WCW triggered years of struggles with substance abuse, financial problems, and personal demons. Looking back, Roberts recognizes that wrestling politics and addiction were his greatest adversaries.

“Jealousy in wrestling has killed more people than war ever has,” he said.

Roberts’ story illustrates how a single career setback can have devastating personal consequences—and how the wrestling industry has often failed to protect its biggest stars.

Jake Roberts has revealed why he picked snakes as part of his gimmick over a different animal.

The WWE Hall of Famer recently spoke to Chris Van Vliet for a new interview. He discussed things such as DDP helping him with his alcohol addiction, his iconic promos, DDT not being used as finishers anymore and more.

Talking about his famous gimmick, Roberts discussed how he’s actually not a fan of snakes and joked that he should have adopted a different creature-based character:

“I don’t like snakes at all. I’m terrified of them. They scare the piss out of me, and you never get used to getting bit. I should have been like Billy the bug, just carry a cockroach around.

You know, if I shoved a cockroach in your ear, that would mess with your head, yeah, yeah, especially your ear. Little cockroach dug in there.”

• Jake Roberts Claims AEW Faction is “Without a Doubt” Better than The Bloodline

Because People Are Afraid: Jake Roberts

The WWE legend was then asked why he still chose snakes as part of his character despite hating them. Jake Roberts explained that this phobia which he shares with a lot of fans is the thing that made him a successful heel:

“Because of that, because most people are afraid of snakes. Your parents tell you from the get go, keep away snakes. And that’s ingrained in you.

It’s sort of something that is taught to us from the very beginning, and kids dig it, because mom and dad can’t stand it. You know, it makes mama squirm. I love to see your mother squirm. I still love seeing that.”

Roberts also revealed that he’s received more than 15 snake bites over the course of his career. He discussed how people are told not to move quickly when a snake bites but it’s the natural reaction for anyone. He recalled one such incident where he got bitten by a large reticulated Python who ended up tearing a chunk off his arm.

• Jake Roberts Recalls Fan Shooting At Him During A Show

Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts would not be living right now if not for the immense effort from him and others to combat his substance abuse issues. For years, Roberts battled an addiction to alcohol and other substances and would spend 14 weeks in a WWE-endorsed rehab clinic in 2007. Despite this, it wouldn’t be until Page moved in with ‘Diamond’ Dallas Page in 2012 that Roberts was able to turn his life around.

Speaking on the Insight podcast, Roberts was asked if he still struggles with his sobriety and shared that alcohol no longer is able to coax him.

“The smell of alcohol turns my stomach. I can walk through an airport blindfolded and tell you where the bars are at. Because of the smell. That’s my stomach now and I’m glad.”

Roberts’ time with DDP and battle with substance abuse was documented in the documentary The Resurrection of Jake the Snake. When asked how he was able to overcome his demons, Jake made clear it wasn’t a solitary venture.

“A lot of damn work, it took a lot of work. It took a lot of patience and some good friends.

Roberts is just one of several wrestlers helped by DDP, who also aided Scott Hall with his battles with substances. Had Page not stepped in, Roberts would not have been alive for the interview according to the WWE legend.

“Nope. No doubt in my mind. I’d have been dead several years ago. That’s where I was going.”

Roberts is not just surviving, but thriving at the age of 69 as the manager of La Facción Ingobernable. Roberts also serves as an advisor for the community outreach program AEW Together where he uses his experience to help others make the right choices.

Jake Roberts remains a hot commodity in pro wrestling and ‘The Snake’ slithered some major news about what he decided to do regarding his future with AEW.

SEScoops can confirm The Master of the DDY has inked a new contract with Tony Khan’s All Elite Wrestling. Roberts addresses the situation on the next episode of his Snake Pit, which has yet to be released publicly. Roberts tells co-host Marcus DeAngelo:

“Well folks, just to let you know, you’re gonna be looking at me on AEW for another year. That’s right, they re-signed me so that’s great news. Looking forward to doing it.”

Roberts has notoriously been a creative mind on screen and behind the scenes in pro wrestling and he revealed that he had a big pitch in mind to make to Khan for this upcoming year.

“Crossing my fingers that – wouldn’t be something if we started the ‘Snake Pit’ back up? Listen, I’d love to talk to Tony about that.

“I’m damn sure gonna pitch it.”

Much like ‘Piper’s Pit,’ ‘The Snake Pit’ was Roberts’ memorable talk show segment in WWE that featured major names such as Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Piper himself and many more.

Roberts signed with AEW back in 2020, confronting Cody Rhodes and teasing further doom to come for ‘The American Nightmare.’ He then became the manager for Lance Archer whom he has been paired with ever since.

Jake Roberts Has Even More Pro Wrestling Related Plans For 2024

In the same breath of breaking the AEW news, Jake Roberts also revealed that like Chris Jericho, ‘The Snake’ plans to set sail like a fellow legendary AEW colleague.

“Everybody’s been on a Jericho Cruise, but have you been on the Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts cruise? That’s on the way so folks get ready, we’re gonna take it out on the middle of the ocean and do what I do.”

You can the new episode of  “The Snake Pit” this coming Tuesday or you can catch it early at AdFreeShows.com.

Please credit “The Snake Pit” and h/t to SEScoops for the transcription.

One really couldn’t think of a greater moral compass for a wrestling company than Bryan Danielson. He by all accounts, has the perfect balance of life – one that exists outside of wrestling (which is pretty key if we’re being honest – wrestlers and fans alike). He’s got a family to keep him grounded, causes to be an advocate for and plenty of books to read. He can disassociate from pro wrestling, a career he’s still absolutely passionate about, but bring in out of the ring elements for better synergy.

Even that considered, he’s a team player, extremely considerate and a modern wrestling oracle to pick the brain of. You factor in Jerry Lynn, those two are the ultimate good cops.

You need a bad cop.

A heavy. Someone who doesn’t take any kind of nonsense, looks at the bottom line for what it is. Does “they” or “their actions” or what they’re doing help the growth of the company? If they don’t do such, cut whatever fat there may be. There should be two credible sheriffs in town and that “bad cop” onus should not be burdened upon one of your top on-air talents.

That’s also not saying Tony Khan should recruit a “yes man, either. Being a billionaire, he’s probably got a few already and they’re certainly not helping to grow the product. However, if Tony could take himself out of the equation, and put the trust in the team he’s assembled, he would do wonders for his company. A company that quite frankly, is failing to hit its mark in certain ways.

In addition to a heavy, there’s so many established names who could help better the promotion if he gave them full autonomy to regulate like Nate Dogg and Warren G. And instead of just one, why not make it two? Here are some “tag teams” behind the scenes that Tony Khan could utilize (two of which who currently aren’t under contract).

Jake Roberts & Arn Anderson

Who was equally excited and intrigued at the possibility of Jake Roberts back with a pro wrestling company? Who was also equally disappointed that Arn wasn’t made the most of during his tenure here? Both he and his son Brock were not re-signed when their contracts expired and it feels like a missed opportunity by Tony Khan on both names, who seemed to only associate them with Cody Rhodes’ time here.

How much could that young talent learn from “The Snake” or “The Enforcer”when it comes to promo skills, ring psychology and real life problems?

Re-sign the Andersons and designate Arn and Jake as your Dusty Rhodes to your NXT. Let them filter through the good and the bad before they’re Dynamite ready and don’t let anybody tell them “no” either.

Jeff Jarrett & Jim Ross

Tony Khan admittedly says he overworks himself and that’s why Bryan Danielson appointed Jimmy Jacobs to help as an assistant. Khan did tap into wrestling history when he signed Jeff Jarrett, first as a talent and then as the Senior Vice President of Live Events, but Double J wears a lot of hats. Khan has shown the capability of laying out a great (albeit very long) PPV, but weekly television programming is another story. Actually sometimes there’s so many stories it’s hard to pin good ones down, especially if you’re a casual viewer.

Allowing Jarrett and JR (who currently is away from television), to be your ultimate booking brain trust lends your company to the old school booking mindset, a structure AEW truly needs. Paring two names who learned from the best in the territory days is really only going to help a show that’s too fast-paced and too cluttered.

Karen Jarrett & Mickie James

If you watch the AEW women’s division, you know it feels neglected. Major names and pinnacle storytellers like Thunder Rosa and Britt Baker are currently not competing, and the announcements of any women’s match feels sudden without any pomp, circumstance or substance (with the exception of “Timeless” Toni Storm, of course.)

She may not be under contract with AEW, but Mickie James knows how to book an all-women’s wrestling show. She did that with NWA Empowerrr and she’s doing it again in 2024 in Australia as a part of Starrcast VI.

Karen Jarrett knows how to make the most of her on camera without even doing a hip-toss. Unfortunately for the women, many don’t receive the experience or the opportunity to let their personalities shine. Both these veterans tagging up would do wonders for bringing the AEW women back to relevancy.

Paul Wight & Mark Henry

Remember the aforementioned “heavy”? Taking it figuratively and literally with this these two. Both legends are currently signed with AEW, but not much is being done with either and it’s unfortunate. Wight is someone who’s main-evented and worked with main-eventers his entire career while Henry has been someone who’s wrestled all throughout the card.

You think a talent is going to go off-script or do a dangerous move for a forgettable pop if they have to answer to Wight or Henry afterwards? If they did it would most likely be their last time and that’s not even considering the name cache they. Make these two your “bad cops” and they would know how to maintain a healthy relationship in the locker room.

Matt Hardy & Chris Jericho

From how it sounds, AEW has its fair share of locker room leaders behind the scenes, but what about having two primary checkpoints who have shown the ability to adapt, innovate and sympathize?

Jericho and Hardy have formed friendships with anybody and everybody of whatever status or age, including the AEW EVPs. Maybe they already are, but making them the go-to mediators for any issues between boots and management could cultivate a solid structure within AEW’s loaded ecosystem of stars.

Jerry Lynn & Dustin Rhodes

Nobody should ever have a bad word to say about Jerry Lynn and if you do, you’re likely part of the problem. It’s been too awesome to have Lynn and Dustin Rhodes be a vital part of AEW’s growth and if there’s been chaos backstage, you can guarantee neither have been apart of it.

Giving them the opportunity to harness and harmonize your roster from an in-ring standpoint is likely something that has happened on several occasions. Both have an old-school upbringing, but very different styles, Make them have the final say as to what goes down between the ropes every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Appreciate The Past & Look Forward To The Future

With all these legendary names behind the curtain or in the ring, it’s easy to say so many are being under-utilized, but the presentation of the current AEW product speaks to the notion that they’re standing on the apron. 

Give them the hot tag and let them take you home. That’s teamwork.

Comments, questions … complaints? Email Dominic at dpdeangelo@gmail.com

The Bloodline may be one of WWE’s most popular acts in years, but they apparently cannot hold a candle to The Elite.

Following Roman Reigns’ heel turn in 2020, his cousins The Usos would fall in line behind their Tribal Chief, who has been advised by his special counsel Paul Heyman.

Last September, Solo Sikoa was added to the faction by helping Reigns retain the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Clash at the Castle.

Without a Doubt

The Bloodline storyline, especially the chapter with Sami Zayn, has been heralded as one of the best thing wrestling fans have seen in years, but they are not the only faction around.

Last November, the Elite made their AEW return at Full Gear, after being suspended for their roles in the backstage fight following All Out.

Speaking on the Cafe de Rene podcast, Jake Roberts was asked which group he thinks is better.

“Kenny. Kenny and The Bucks without a doubt. I think Kenny Omega is f***ing unbelievable. He is f***ing on spot. I don’t like a lot of stuff The Young Bucks do but brother they’re doing it and getting away with it.”

At AEW Revolution 2023, the Elite lost the AEW Trios Championships to the House of Black.

The Elite Vs. The Bloodline?

At this time, the idea of a six-man-tag match between the two factions is purely hypothetical, but that is something WWE hopes to change.

In February, it was reported that WWE was expected to pursue multiple top-level AEW talent, including Omega.

The belief is that if they can sign Omega (who has previously been under a WWE developmental deal) then it may encourage the Bucks to jump ship to WWE.

h/t – Sportskeeda

Ahmed Johnson was a force to be reckoned with throughout his WWF career, but the powerhouse was hardly making friends in the locker room.

Johnson debuted in the WWF in 1995, and captured the Intercontinental Championship at the following year’s King of the Ring event.

This win made Johnson the first African-American Intercontinental Champion, setting the path for future stars including modern-day talent like Kofi Kingston, Shelton Benjamin, and Big E.

The Kiss

Prior to his IC title win, Ahmed feuded with Goldust, who played mind games with the powerhouse.

On the May 27, 1996 Raw, the Bizarre One performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on Johnson, who was laid out backstage.

This act of CPR played into the gay panic that was more prevalent at the time, which Jake Roberts addressed on the latest Snake Pit podcast.

“I was there when they had him [Goldust] kiss Ahmed. Oh, boy, I wouldn’t have wanted to be in his way. He lost his sh*t!”

Jake Roberts.

Injuring Talent

As a former Football star, Johnson was used to letting his intensity do the talking and garnered a reputation among some for being dangerous in the ring.

On his podcast, Roberts suggested that Vince McMahon, well aware of how Ahmed would react to the kiss, booked it on purpose to try and get Johnson to leave the promotion.

“Vince did that on purpose. Vince needed a black superstar, and Ahmed was gonna be it, but then Ahmed just got to where he wouldn’t show up. He was hurting people every f*ing night. He just became unruly, unable to deal with him. Too demanding. They finally had to let him go.”

Jake Roberts

After leaving the WWF in 1998, Ahmed would join WCW in 1999 as ‘Big T,’ and would form ‘Harlem Heat 2000’ with Stevie Ray.

In a feud that would have filled arenas on Sesame Street, Big T feuded with Booker T over the usage of the letter ‘T,’ a feud Big T would win, leaving the future WWE Hall of Famer to go by just ‘Booker.’

For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

Jake Roberts’ return to WWE in 2014 proved to be a pivotal moment in the life of the legendary wrestler.

Roberts returned to WWE on the ‘Old School Raw’ in January 2014 in his first appearance for the promotion in nearly nine years.

For his segment, Roberts confronted the Shield, and after Deam Ambrose was laid out with CM Punk’s GTS, Jake placed a snake on the future Blackpool Combat Club member.

Before the Return

Roberts’ problem with substances has been well-documented, and by the time of his return, the legend had only recently begun working with ‘Diamond’ Dallas Page.

Speaking on his Snake Pit podcast, Roberts recalled the dark place he was in prior to his Raw appearance.

“You’ve got to remember as to where I was at. I was hating myself. I was still in the hate mode with myself because I was getting in shape and I’d look at myself and I’d think “why didn’t you f***ing take care of yourself? Why didn’t you do this Jake? No instead you had to smoke crack and f***ing drink and f***ing take pills.'”

During his WWE Hall of Fame speech that March, Roberts would mention DDP as a key influence on his life.

His Appearance

Roberts got the call a few weeks prior to Raw and spoke to now-former WWE talent liaison Mark Carrano about the plans for his return.

Speaking about the day of his return, Roberts joked that his waiting backstage was hardly that becoming of a legend.

“They brought me in, and they wanted it to be a surprise, not only for the fans but for everybody. So they snuck me into town, and snuck me into a bus. And I just sat in the bus for what must have been eight hours, by myself, twiddling my thumbs. About once every four hours, they’d send someone in to check on me. See if I needed anything. Like a gun to blow my brains out (laughs.).”

Addressing his return on TV, Roberts recalled a moment between Punk and Ambrose that he has never forgotten.

“CM Punk tells Mox ‘the snake’s s**t on your chest.’ And Mox is just f**ing bursting. He’s grinning from ear to ear. He couldn’t hold it.”

Jake Roberts.

While Ambrose was supposed to be unconscious for the placing of the snake, the Shield member can be seen grinning, as he had been a huge fan of Roberts since childhood.

The Rush

Roberts’ return to WWE had not been reported anywhere prior to his appearance, which made his comeback even more special.

After everything he had been through, Roberts was grateful that he was able to have a moment like this after years of struggle.

It was great. What a great moment for me. Walking down that damn ramp. The people were screaming so loud, it was deafening. What a rush I got. It felt like my hair was growing. It felt like my skin was on fire.

“I had come back. I had come back from the gates of hell.”

Jake Roberts.

“It took my breath away. You see me walking down there, I should have been more serious but I couldn’t. There was so much joy that was flooding me because I had come back. I had come back from the gates of hell.”

Speaking about what happened backstage after, Roberts recalled meeting Vince McMahon and the bittersweet moment.

“[Our meeting was] just a handshake. ‘I’m glad to have you back home. That’s what I got… It was kind of sad in a way because a lot of the guys had already left. That was the last match and they wanted to get out of the building before they got out with the crowd. Ted DiBiase had left, but Dallas was still there.”

Roberts would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame that year and would make sporadic appearances for the company prior to signing with AEW.

For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

Wrestling legend Jake “The Snake” Roberts has experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows throughout his decades-long career.

It’s been a long and winding road, but he’s healthy and optimistic about the future. Roberts works for All Elite Wrestling and is getting ready to embark on a new role with the company: serving as an ambassador visiting hospitals and doing other community outreach initiatives.

• Jake Roberts Announces He’s Returning to AEW, No Longer Requires Oxygen Tank

Roberts was at rock bottom when Diamond Dallas Page took him in to his ‘Accountability Crib’ a decade ago. DDP helped Roberts get his life together in many ways.

On a special “Ask Jake Anything” edition of his Snake Pit podcast, Roberts looked back at a difficult period in his life and the importance of knowing fans appreciate him and his legacy.

Blown Away by Fan Support

A listener asked Roberts how it feels to receive so much love from his fans. He admits he didn’t feel very loved for a long time, but it was his work with DDP that opened his eyes to how much support he really had.

“Well, here’s the thing, I didn’t know it for so many years,” said Roberts. “I didn’t have a clue, didn’t know that the fans felt the way they do about me. Not until I was in the Accountability Crib and all the people raised money for me to have a surgery. I couldn’t believe it. It blew me away. I cried and cried over that, because I didn’t think anybody gave a shit about me.

Then, to hear all this love that was pouring out, man, it just it really freaked me out and that was probably part of my recovery, man. That was a big thing to happen in my life and my daughter was there when [it was] happening and she was blown away too.”

• Jake Roberts Reflects On AEW Debut “I Felt Like I Was At Home Again”

Smell The Roses

Roberts says it’s easy to lose touch with reality when you’re living a hard life of drugs and alcohol. You don’t realize there are people that love you and want you to do well. He cites his traumatic childhood as the source of this unhealthy outlook.

“Sometimes you just you’re running so hard through life,” Roberts continued. “You don’t take time to smell the roses or anything else. You’re just fighting till the next day, fighting till the next day, fighting till the next day and you don’t pay attention to what’s going on around you.”

“You don’t realize that people care and the people support you. People love you. That’s on me, because I was just, you know, I was a kid that was battered and bruised and abused and I couldn’t see how anybody would care about me. It was an enlightenment for sure. “

Thankfully, he now has a better perspective and is continuing to write the later chapters of his story on his own terms. Jake Roberts is a success story. The drive and determination that took him to the top of the wrestling world has brought him to where he is today. He’s a living testament that it’s never too late to turn yourself around.

Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts is one of the wrestling legends who has had a resurgence in recent times.

The Wrestling Veteran was one of the top stars of the golden era. However, he disappeared from the public eye later on as battled with addiction and other demons. While he kept making sporadic appearances for WWE, the Hall of Famer got a real second chance when AEW brought him in as a TV regular in 2020.

The wrestling legend opened up about his AEW debut on the latest episode of his Snake Pit podcast. Roberts explained that he was blown away by people’s reactions. When he touched the ropes, he felt like he was at home again:

“Incredible reaction. If you go back to that picture, you can see that all the fans are standing too.” said Jake Roberts, “That doesn’t happen very often anymore. When I walked out there and that rush hit me – Oh my God.

Then whenever I touched the ring apron. I could just feel it come right back through me, man. I felt like I was at home again. It had been so long. It had been so long. It’d been 20 years since I’d been in the ring. To go out there and have that type of ovation happen, to be doing it in the ring with Cody, it couldn’t have been any better.”

Jake Roberts made his AEW debut during the March 4, 2020 episode of AEW Dynamite. He interrupted a promo of Cody Rhodes. He claimed that he had a client coming to AEW, which turned out to be Lance Archer.

You can re-live the incredible moment below:

More Originals From SEScoops:

• Dolph Ziggler Discusses Future Of His Stand-Up Comedy Career
• Kurt Angle Reflects On TNA’s Aces & Eights Storyline
• Matt Cardona’s Advice For Young Talent: “Slow The F*ck Down”
• Drew McIntyre On Vince McMahon’s Original Plans For 3MB
• Shawn Michaels On What Makes Logan Paul A Great Performer

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

Wrestling legend Jake Roberts took to Twitter today to announce some great news.

Jake has been battling COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and hasn’t appeared on AEW television in some time. The WWE Hall of Famer announced that he is at AEW Dynamite tonight and no longer requires an oxygen tank.

Jake debuted in AEW in March 2020. He confronted former TNT Champion Cody Rhodes and said that he has a client ready to conquer The American Nightmare. Roberts serves as the manager of Lance Archer in AEW.

Jake Roberts on His Health Issues

Jake Roberts was recently interviewed on Premier Live TV and discussed his health issues. The 67-year-old said that he had difficulty talking for more than 20-seconds at the time and complimented All Elite Wrestling for caring about him.

“I’m just gonna hit on it fairly briefly because we’re still struggling with it. About a week ago, I just couldn’t quit coughing and couldn’t breathe. That’s not good, you know? I wound up having to get to the hospital and stay for a few days. I wish I could say this was COVID but it’s not. What I’ve got is worse than COVID.

It’s something that was passed down to me through the bloodlines and all that stuff, and it’s issues with COPD – of course, me being a dumb son of a b*tch, I smoked cigarettes, you dumb f*ck. Guys, if you don’t ever do anything in your life, just don’t smoke and you’ll live much happier. I promise you that……it’s serious for me. I don’t get the right amount of oxygen into my blood and that’s not good.

I don’t know how much it’s gonna limit me in my future……I know that without the oxygen and I talk for about 20 seconds, I’m done. I can’t do it anymore. It’s just not there. So, it’s gonna be something Im gonna have to work with. The thing I’m happiest about is I’m with AEW and they actually give a damn. It’s really wild, they actually care about the athletes, they actually give us the help we need, and they actually set up protocols……these guys are smart enough to protect us from ourselves. I am so over the top happy with them.”

H/T: 411Mania

Did Bret screw Bret as Vince McMahon once infamously claimed? Certainly so, according to Jake ‘The Snake Roberts.

In 1997, Hart was infamously ‘screwed’ out of the WWF Championship at the Survivor Series, after refusing to lose to real-life rival Shawn Michaels.

An agreement was made that Bret would retain at Survivor Series and vacate the title the next night on Raw, while not under contract with the WWF.

Instead, Hart and Michaels ‘screwed’ Bret of the title, giving Shawn a submission win without Bret tapping out.

You Deserve It

Bret being screwed is the most infamous example of a champion not losing the title, but hardly the only one.

When Rick Rude left the NWA to join the WWF, he did so as one-half of the NWA World Tag Champions.

Speaking on this week’s DDP Snake Pit podcast about Rude made his thoughts clear on champions and on Montreal.

“I don’t agree with that [leaving as Champion] at all. You know, there’s been so many guys who get away with it too. Holding up promoters because they don’t want to lose the title in a certain area. Maybe Canada, has that ever happened? Oh wait, it did. Shawn and Bret. He didn’t want to drop it in Canada, so they [Vince McMahon and others] screwed him.

“You didn’t get screwed a**hole! You got what you deserved. How do you have the right, not to drop that title? That title, that was given to you. You did not beat up anybody to get that.

“You didn’t get screwed a**hole! You got what you deserved.”

Jake Roberts on Bret Hart.

“The reason you have that title is because some other schmuck was a good enough guy to lose to you [The Undertaker at Summerslam 1997.] So you not dropping that title tells me you don’t give a flying f*ck about anybody else but yourself, and that’s very selfish. It’s wrong and if you are contemplating doing it, that’s for you.”

Working with Rick

While Rude would be part of DX at the time of the Montreal Screwjob, the act left a deep impression on the Ravishing One.

Rude would leave for WCW immediately after the Screwjob, and would bash Shawn Michaels and DX.

Speaking about Rude, Roberts said it was great working with him.

“It was very easy for me. I always play up to whatever they have. And Rick had a lot, so I could play up to a lot of things with him. So I was very comfortable with him and I was very fortunate that he listened to me.”

Rude sadly passed in 1999 and would be posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.

For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

Stone Cold Steve Austin has chosen who he thinks was the best on the microphone during the Attitude Era, and believe it or not, it isn’t himself.

The WWE Hall of Famer named his longtime rival turned Hollywood juggernaut Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as the top talker during the height of pro-wrestling in popular culture. Austin, who is well-known for his skills on the mic, throws praise to the Great One during his recent appearance on the “First We Feast” program on Youtube, but does acknowledge that Rocky didn’t start out as a fan-favorite.

“You cannot overlook The Rock. When he first arrived on the scene, he was this good-looking, third-generation babyface and people just didn’t take to him. They’d say, ‘Die Rocky Die! Die Rocky Die!”

The Rattlesnake later discusses the work The Rock did to improve his character, which started with his decision to join the Nation of Domination. From there, he took his persona to the next level.

“He started wearing the silk shirts and he started referring to himself in third person and working that eyebrow. And he electrified and captivated crowds with his catchphrases, his cadence and his delivery, and his message and calling everybody ‘jabroni. He commanded the audience’s respect, attention and elicited the response that he was looking for from them.”

Who Else Does Austin Revere As A Great Talker?

The Rock wasn’t the only WWE legend Austin decided to call attention to. He also highlighted current AEW star and fellow WWE Hall of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts as a talent who captivated audiences by sometimes saying nothing at all.

“Once Jake got in the ring, he commanded your respect. He had this presence about him, and he’s one of the most economic, efficient workers out there, where he didn’t do a whole lot, but everything he did meant something, and he was always working for that DDT.”

Austin may hold these talents in high regards, but few would argue that he doesn’t belong at the top of the list as it is well documented that his run in the late 90s was considered one of the greatest of all time, and catapulted the Rattlesnake to monumental levels.

(Quotes via Wrestling Inc.)

In 1987, a decade before he’d become the evil on-screen monster fans know him for, Vince McMahon appeared in a video for ‘Stand Back.’

The music video saw the then-commentator strut his stuff with gorgeous women, while the Superstars of the time performed on stage.

The Worst Time I Had in WWE

Vince McMahon may have had a lot of fun with ‘Stand Back’ but Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts is not a fan.

For the performance at the 1987 Slammy Awards, the future-WWE Hall of Famer played a trumpet with his fellow wrestlers.

When asked about Stand Back during the latest episode of the “DDP Snake Pit” podcast, Roberts said it was the worst thing he’s ever done (via Wrestling News.)

“I don’t claim to be a dancer. I like to watch dancers, but I wouldn’t be a dancer. Musical instruments, I can’t carry a tune in a bucket, much less play a trumpet. That whole shenanigan was probably the worst time I’ve had in the WWE or any other organization.”

“That whole shenanigan was probably the worst time I’ve had in the WWE.”

Jake Roberts on his performance for ‘Stand Back.’

Making a Loss

Not only was Jake Roberts mortified to be part of ‘Stand Back’ but his performance ultimately cost him money.

Roberts told listeners that they were not paid for their performance and that because of the free time they had during the shoot at a hotel in Atlantic City, he ultimately made a loss.

“That trip cost me like six grand because they had gambling, they had alcohol, and we had way too much time on our hands.”

Jake Roberts.

Roberts did say that they were well taken care of at the hotel, but is pleased that the wrestling world ‘moved forward’ and there were no repeat performances.

There is frustration brewing over the booking of one AEW star.

AEW’s success has been quite impressive considering the company has only been around since 2019. Tony Khan has been able to score a TV deal with WarnerMedia and figures to be in for a massive broadcast deal once it’s time to renew.

Just as is the case with any other company, AEW does have its faults. Fans and experts have criticized the promotion for signing so much talent that many of them are off TV for weeks and only return in random spots.

It has left one Hall of Famer frustrated.

Jake Roberts Not Happy With Lance Archer’s Booking

Jake Roberts, a wrestling legend who currently manages Lance Archer, had some things to say on a recent edition of the DDP Snake Pit.

Jake “The Snake” expressed frustration over how AEW has been using Archer.

“It is so frustrating for me to see Lance in the spot that he is in. He’s such a phenomenal athlete, he’s in such great shape, he’s got an unbelievable look. The only thing Lance doesn’t do really well is talk and that’s why they brought me.”

Archer has more often been seen on AEW Dark and when he has appeared on AEW TV, he’s been used to put others over. He did have a title match against Hangman Page but the booking just seemed random as AEW didn’t do much to build him up before he attacked Hangman to set up the match.

It’s a far cry from the promo Sting cut on Archer and Roberts back in 2021. Sting told Archer on an episode of Dynamite that he thinks he has what it takes to win the AEW World Championship.

It had been reported by Voices of Wrestling that there are some other stars in AEW that aren’t happy with how they’ve been used.

Archer will be able to show off more of what he can do soon as he’s been announced for this year’s NJPW G1 Climax.

Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

WWE Hall of Famer and AEW performer Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts has praised MJF’s work as a heel, comparing him to the late ‘Rowdy’ Roddy Piper.

MJF has proven to be a stand-out talent for AEW due to his heel persona and refusal to break character when appearing in public.

Speaking on his DDP Snake Pit podcast, Roberts was asked about just how similar MJF is to the former WWE Intercontinental Champion.

“Absolutely (on the piper-mjf comparrison.) Because he rants on you, man. he gets in your face. he throws sh*t at you quick and fast.”

Jake Roberts

MJF is expected to face Wardlow at Double or Nothing 2022 on May 29.

Will MJF jump to WWE?

MJF may be one of the most popular acts in AEW, but according to reports, he’s not happy with the promotion.

MJF has reportedly been at odds with Tony Khan in recent months and has openly teased going to WWE, saying he would have a “tremendous” match with Roman Reigns.

MJF’s contract with AEW will expire in 2024, and the “Salt of the Earth” has reportedly rejected all attempts to extend his current deal.

• MJF Hardly the Only Talent Unhappy in AEW (May 2022)

Thanks to Sportskeeda for the transcription.

AEW Commentator Jim Ross has said that he didn’t mean to cause an issue for Jake Roberts after reporting that the former wrestler is in poor health.

Earlier this month, JR reported that Roberts’ health is “not good” but Jake later refuted the claim via tweet.

Speaking on this week’s ‘Grillin’ JR’ podcast, Ross said that Roberts will know his own health better but that he still believes he is dealing with multiple issues.

“I said some stuff about Jake’s health and his breathing issues and he denies as sickly as I portrayed him to be,” Ross said.

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging, he’s got a breathing machine, oxygen he carries with him and to me, that’s not normal but he’s dealing with it. He’s under great doctor’s care and I didn’t want to start some bullsh*t about Jake because it might affect his bookings.”

“Maybe he’s right, he’d know better than me. But I know that his health has been challenging.”

Jim Ross

Roberts’ most recent AEW appearance came on the April 27, Dynamite, where he accompanied Lance Archer for his match with Wardlow.

• Jim Ross has Signed a Contract Extension with AEW (May 2022)

Thanks to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Jake Roberts is aware of rumblings that he isn’t in good health and he has responded.

Jim Ross gave fans a scare during an episode of his Grilling JR podcast. Ross said that Jake “The Snake’s” health was “not good” but that he was taking measures to address it.

Here’s what the legendary play-by-play ace had to say (h/t WrestlingNews.co).

“I just saw him here a few weeks ago and he’s still battling his breathing issues. He’s not in great health. That’s why you don’t see him as often on AEW television as he once was when he was fronting Lance Archer.

“But his health is not good and he’s taking the means to address it. He still has surgeries left. But he has breathing issues.”

Jake Roberts Dismisses Health Claim

Jake Roberts took to his Twitter account and insisted that he’s not in bad health.

“Hey guys once again someone wants to make a splash on the internet and what better way is there than putting out Jake Roberts is in bad health. Totally untrue. I’m going to be around a long time.”

Jake has come a long way from the days when he was addicted to drugs and alcohol. Roberts was lifted back to his feet by DDP and he credits the former WCW star for saving his life.

Roberts recently revealed to SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio that he was preparing for hip surgery. He also admitted that he’ll be using an oxygen tank again from time to time. There was a point where he didn’t need it anymore but now he’s back on it.

AEW play-by-play ace Jim Ross has a health update on Jake Roberts and it isn’t a positive one.

These days, Jake “The Snake” serves as a manager for Lance Archer on AEW TV. While Jake makes appearances from time to time, he hasn’t been around as much lately.

Sadly, it looks like this is due to some health problems.

Jake Roberts’ Health

During an episode of his Grillin’ JR podcast, Jim Ross revealed that some breathing troubles have been plaguing Jake Roberts.

“I just saw him here a few weeks ago and he’s still battling his breathing issues. He’s not in great health. That’s whyai you don’t see him as often on AEW television as he once was when he was fronting Lance Archer.

“But his health is not good and he’s taking the means to address it. He still has surgeries left. But he has breathing issues.”

Many believe that Jake Roberts has cheated death more than just about anyone in the industry. Jake “The Snake” had to overcome drug and alcohol addiction.

UPDATE: Jake Roberts Refutes Jim Ross’ Claim That He’s Not In Good Health

Roberts had been spiraling before getting clean thanks to DDP. While Jake has seemingly been in much better health and spirits in recent times, this update is sure to leave fans concerned.

Jake revealed back in February that he was diagnosed with COVID-19. The silver lining at the time was that he no longer needed an oxygen tank. He was preparing for another hip surgery, however, and said he will indeed be taking oxygen again here and there.

We’ll keep you posted on Jake Roberts’ health and we wish him nothing but the best.

Quotes via WrestlingNewsCo

WWE Hall of Famer Jake Roberts spoke in-depth about his past substance abuse issues on the latest edition of his DDP Snakepit podcast.

The Master of the DDT began by discussing his love of marijuana, and how it never got him or any of the boys in trouble. He further elaborates by saying that anytime he got a drop of alcohol, which he considers a gateway drug, bad things would follow.

“I don’t think marijuana is a gateway drug. I think alcohol is. I never got in a fight when I was smoking pot. I never got in trouble when I was smoking pot. I never wanted to do cocaine when I was smoking pot. But you give me a few Jack Daniels, brother, I want to fight and I want some s**t to go down.”

Roberts reveals that he had a regular marijuana routine that would help him relax after wrestling. However, that routine would be compromised as Vince McMahon would at one point ban marijuana for all the WWE talent at the time, a move that led to harder drugs entering the picture.

“My routine, in the beginning, was beer, a little pot, a little sleeping pill. And then Vince came along and cut the pot out. Man, when he cut that pot out, that was tough, because we didn’t have a go-to thing to relax us now. We had to double up on the beer. Then a lot of us started taking different pills and that leads to problems.”

Ending his rant…Roberts believes that banning marijuana was one of the worst things McMahon could have done because it led to many wrestlers not taking as good of care of themselves.

“For Vince, the worst thing he could’ve done was take marijuana away from us. Because that was everybody’s go-to thing, to relax.”

Roberts wasn’t the only one who felt this way. Bret Hart has gone on record in the past stating that marijuana was very beneficial to wrestlers during the grind of the 90s, even going as far as to say that many more would be alive if the substance wasn’t frowned upon.

You can check out the full DDP Snakepit episode here.

(Quotes via Wrestling Inc.)

WWE Hall of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts is preparing to undergo hip surgery, the wrestling legend has confirmed.

In February, Roberts gave an update on his health, saying he had recently tested positive for COVID-19 and that he no longer needs to use an oxygen tank.

Speaking to SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, Roberts discussed his health issues and confirmed the upcoming surgery, adding that he now needs to use oxygen again from time to time.

“There’s no warranty on those damn things.”

– Jake Roberts on needing another hip surgery

“When you’re getting to the age that I am, which is too old, you’re gonna have problems,” said Roberts. “Because your parts are breaking down. You know, if I’d have known I was going to live this long I would have taken better care of myself, but to tell you the truth, I’m about to get my third hip.

“There’s no warranty on those damn things, that’s bullsh*t, but anyway. You have little issues here and there. Unfortunately, may mom gave me a few diseases that there’s no cure for in my lungs. I have to do a little oxygen here and there.”

In more positive news, Jake revealed that he has reconciled with a former partner that left him years ago due to his drug and alcohol problems:

“In the last year, we’ve gotten back together, which is an amazing story. I mean for all the crap that I did, for her to forgive me. Our love is so strong now.”

Jake and his partner will be at 80s Wrestling Con, which will take place this weekend at the Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown, New Jersey.

Jake Roberts simply wants Cody Rhodes to be happy.

Back in February, wrestling fans were shocked to learn that Cody and his wife Brandi Rhodes would be leaving AEW. Cody is one of the founding members of AEW and was known for taking shots at WWE.

Ultimately, he has decided to return to the Vince McMahon-led empire according to PWInsider.

Jake Roberts On Cody Rhodes’ Decision

During an episode of the DDP Snakepit Podcast, Jake Roberts said that if signing with WWE is what makes Cody Rhodes happy then he has to accept it (h/t Wrestling Inc).

“Whatever he wants. Whatever his heart desires that will allow him to be around his child as much as possible. I know what I missed over the years, being on the road all the time. Nobody should have to miss the things that I missed. Nobody.

“Kids growing up are the most important thing because they help keep you young, you know? Watch them enjoy the things that you did, maybe 20 years before, but you get to taste some more of that. I think it’s important. Certainly, a strong family base is so important these days.

“That’s my desire for him, and Dustin I hope does whatever he wants to do and certainly deserves the opportunity to do whatever they want to do. If you have a job and you don’t love it, you’re going to work. I don’t want to work. I want to do something that I did that’s fun. That makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something.

“Makes me feel like I’ve helped somebody out. Contributed to mankind in some way. Maybe moved a pebble or rock or a boulder, it doesn’t matter. I moved it. And that’s when you accomplish things, man.”

Jake “The Snake” continues to work for AEW. He currently manages Lance Archer.

Jake “the Snake” Roberts says he no longer requires the use of an oxygen tank. Roberts gave a health update recently on his podcast along with Diamond Dallas Page.

“Genetics being what they are, my mother had two lung diseases that she passed on to me. There’s no cure for either one of them,” Roberts said.

“The last thing I should ever do is smoke a cigarette, and yet I’ve been smoking since I was 17, to the point that I have COPD and a little emphysema tossed in,” he continued.

Roberts noted that his conditions left him vulnerable to COVID-19. He got full vaccinated as quickly as he could, however. Roberts also recently recovered after having contracted the virus.

“Today, I feel great. I don’t have to use any oxygen at all. I do have to use it on the airplanes when they pressurize and go up high, but it’s something that can be dealt with. I can still live a great life.”

Roberts has been back to accompanying Lance Archer to the ring for his matches. He continued to say that while he’ll never be able to run a marathon (and never was able to in the first place), he’s still got everything he needs to have a great life.

H/T To Wrestling Inc. for the above transcriptions.

AEW star and WWE Hall of Famer Jake Roberts has revealed that he has tested positive for coronavirus.

The wrestling veteran revealed the news on Twitter. He wrote “I’ve waited so long. Actually thought I was bulletproof. Yes I’ve gotten Covid-19!”

The former WWE star followed this up with another tweet. He mentioned how he hasn’t made an AEW appearance in nearly 3 months. Jake Roberts claimed that Tony Khan has gone above and beyond to keep everyone safe:

“Yes after not going to do my AEW work for nearly 3 months. Tony Kahn knows I’m high risk and has gone above and beyond all expectations trying to keep everyone safe. Pretty sure I got it from family or when I was out shopping.”

Jake Roberts revealed in July earlier this year that he has signed a new 2-year contract with AEW. Though he had been off TV in recent months after undergoing a foot surgery where he had pins inserted in his toes.

A positive test for the wrestling legend is concerning news, especially because of his battle with COPD which makes it hard for Roberts to breathe. COVID-19 is known to attack the lungs of its patients.

SEScoops wishes a speedy recovery to Jake Roberts.