Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently discussed Vince McMahon and WWE ‘barring’ Superstars from using third party sites as a revenue stream. You can check out what the full show at The Ryback Show podcast or via Patreon.

WWE’s recent crackdown on third party streaming platforms has been gaining a lot of traction, even in the mainstream. WWE has always been quick to refer to their ‘independent contractor’ status of their Superstars; however this recent move to choke Superstar’s earning potential on external services has called this into question once again.

Ryback on WWE Third Party ‘Ban’

“What they’re [WWE] doing? Obviously revenue is the name of the game” Ryback began on the podcast. “They have wh*red out these human bodies. We’ve talked about this before, they make money off of you all these other backend ways that you usually don’t get reciprocated for. Or, not reciprocated for nearly as well as you should be. Especially compared to other sporting agencies, entertainment agencies and things of that nature.”

Ryback would then discuss his beliefs as to why WWE would be looking to keep such a ‘stranglehold’ on the performers. “What they are doing? They don’t want mega stars. They don’t want people making a certain level of money where they’re comfortable leaving. Vince wants to keep every talent, male or female, working for them as long as humanly possible. As a business? Okay that’s fine. You want somebody working there as long as possible. The problem is? It’s all a** backwards how they treat people.”

• Miro Talks AEW Not Barring Third Party Revenue for Performers

“They do it by not paying them what they’re worth” Ryback continued. “First of all on the contracts, through the [actual] wrestling, and then on these other agencies [Cameo, Twitch etc] as they’re growing.”

Ryback would finish by mentioning Vince McMahon’s claims that the reason for the ‘crackdown’ is that it is potentially “hurting” the WWE brand. “They’re going to take control. Everything Vince put out is all bullsh*t as far as ‘damaging the brand.’ This is all money. So what he was trying to do? People are now making a lot of money doing these other things. And he’s [McMahon] trying to find a way to control it.”

Do you agree with Ryback here? Let us know in the comments

Former WWE Superstar Rusev/Miro recently appeared on The Ryback Show podcast. The ‘Bulgarian Brute’ would discuss a number of topics from his time with the company; including his ‘Rusev Day’ run, NXT and working with John Cena.

Ryback himself referred to John Cena on the podcast, bringing up a story that involved (previously) company COO Triple H making a major claim to the The Big Guy.

Ryback on Triple H Comments

“This goes back when I was there and Hunter told me…when I was in that top position, or working in that top position; and then the contract negotiations were coming up” Ryback began on the podcast.

Ryback would then refer to arguably his biggest run with WWE, which was back in 2012. The ‘Big Guy’ was ascending the card and would eventually get a Hell In a Cell main event against then WWE Champion CM Punk.

Unfortunately, the timing was completely off. There was no chance that Ryback was going to be given the belt in October of 2012. Even though Ryback had a huge wave of momentum behind him at the time and the support of live crowds? The Rock was due to face the WWE Champion at the Royal Rumble in January, and the marquee match for that night was pencilled in with CM Punk entering as said WWE Champion.

• Rusev: “People That Are Multi-Dimensional Have a Lot More Longevity in WWE”

“He (Triple H) goes, ‘Ryan,’ and he was just shooting me straight, he goes; ‘we’re never gonna have another marquee name after [John] Cena ever again. He’s the last one.” These comments seem to echo those previously made by Vince McMahon. McMahon stated that WWE’s ‘brand’ is the attraction, not the actual names on the marquee/card.

Even still, it is very enlightening to hear that one of WWE’s top brass behind the scenes believes that there won’t be another megastar in the company. With the Roman Regins experiment having seemingly failed over the last 5/6 years maybe ‘The Game’ has a point?

Do you agree with Triple H? Let us know in the comments

Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently discussed the state of professional wrestling in 2020. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic causing television ratings to decline? The ‘Big Guy’ believes that a major reason for the slowdown is that the likes of WWE are more based on in-ring than creating larger than life characters.

Ryback on The Business Shifting

“The business shifted to where the moves have become…I’ve said it all along, move based wrestling does not draw” Ryback began on The Ryback Show podcast.

“We’ve seen it in the independent promotions” Ryback continued. “Like Ring of Honor, they’ve not existed to the world. I’m not talking about the wrestling community, the wrestling community is well aware of them. But the majority of the world isn’t [aware of them].”

Ryback would then discuss his own experience on the big stage of WWE. “I love and respect wrestling, I love it. But anyone that actually knows and has been on the big stage? Knows that’s [move based wrestling] not what sells tickets at the end of the day. The [current] formula is not working overall.”

Despite his own opinion, Ryback would refer to the fact that WWE are making a substantial amount of money. “WWE is making more money than ever. So that’s all they care about. That’s directly from Vince [McMahon]. It’s a business, that’s all they’re looking at.”

Ryback elaborated further, saying “they’re not looking at all these other things, he [McMahon] doesn’t look at it like ‘well if this goes back to this? I could be making double what I’m making.’ He doesn’t, he just looks at he’s making more money than ever and he has control over pretty much all of it.”

Do you agree with Ryback? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently commented on the company continuing to tape their shows from the Performance Center in Florida. The ‘Big Guy’ joined Raj Giri to discuss the ongoing tapings on this week’s episode of the Shooting Blanks Wrestling Report.

The ratings for all shows, RAW, SmackDown and NXT have seen a steady decline over the past few months, partly due to the pandemic and seemingly due to the lack of crowds in attendance at shows and lack of ambience. Although the restrictions around live crowds has somewhat been lifted, WWE’s weekly shows continue to see a decline in ratings.

Ryback on NFL Returning

“They are talking about having football without fans” Ryback began on the podcast, saying how the NFL potentially returning will impact WWE’s viewership. “And if they do? People are going to watch football regardless. They’re [WWE] going to lose a chunk of their audience on that.”

“The trend it just keeps going down more and more and more” Ryback continued. “I think really, filming at the Performance Center? I don’t think it’s working. It’s great, it’s a great place, don’t get me wrong. It’s a great training facility, but for shooting regular TV every week? There’s just no energy there and it comes across [on television].”

Ryback was quick to point out that this was not a dig at the performers themselves. “Again, this isn’t because of the performers, wrestlers or anything. It’s just the environment and the lack of energy from a crowd. So, I’m not shocked. I think they [the ratings] go lower, I really do. But I don’t really know what their [WWE] options are, how can they really change anything?”

Do you think that WWE’s ratings will continue to decline during the pandemic? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE Superstar and NWA Commentator Stu Bennett recently appeared on Ryback’s Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. The former Bad News Barrett discussed a number of topics during the interview; including his recent discussions with WWE and a potential Nexus reunion that was recently rumored.

Ryback confirmed on the show that he was not contacted by WWE. Either for the potential Nexus reunion or any other reason. The Big Guy was part of the group after appearing as Skip Sheffield in the first ‘season’ of NXT.

Ryback on Nexus Reunion

“I did not get a call and I don’t think I will be the with my trademark deal coming up in August” Ryback confirmed on the podcast.

The Big Guy tweeted his anger at WWE keeping the ‘Ryback’ trademark ‘unnecessarily’ back in February of this year. “Publicly asking @WWE @VinceMcMahon @TripleH to let the Ryback trademark go” Ryback tweeted. “It wasn’t created by them and trying to make someone spend nearly $200,000 to keep their legal name and brand is petty and unnecessary. Please move on and erase me from your history and programming.”

Ryback elaborated further on the podcast, saying “I had to send our little boy Mark Carrano a message, ‘I need you guys to respond to the attorney, if I have to go through with it? It’s going to cost upwards of $200,000.’ Which I might not even need to do. There’s ways around it.”

Do you think that we’ll see Ryback appear in another promotion at some point? Maybe AEW, IMPACT or NJPW? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently commented on the creative direction of WWE on his Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. During the show Ryback would discuss ‘scripted’ promos and how he feels WWE in particular need to dial back on them.

Road Dogg recently appeared on After The Bell w/Corey Graves and talked about Superstars being scripted until they can be ‘trusted.’ The NXT producer said “they [the fans] can’t fathom like ‘okay, this guy is a loose cannon, he might say a cuss word or something.’ So we script his promo and he has do it word for word now, because we don’t trust you yet.”

Ryback on Road Dogg

“When I saw Road Dogg again mentioning the promo thing? We’ve talked about this in the past where they say they give you promos until they can quote unquote trust you” Ryback began on the podcast. “Very corporate answer, and I love Road Dogg.”

“Here’s what they need to do” Ryback continued. “If they want to increase ratings? You have to have an idea of what you’re doing, you have to let guys go out there and start shooting at each other.”

Ryback elaborated further, discussing stars of the past. “That’s what made The Rock and Austin, even if they were scripted to a degree. You got allow guys to go out there and I experienced this with John Cena when he was the baby face. Okay, I’m the heel now, we’re gonna make the baby face. Well, you gotta go out there and let guys shoot on each other. that’s what people want to see. Who’s going to get the better of each other?”

Do you agree with Ryback? Do WWE need to give their Superstars more free reign on the microphone?

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently commented on the creative direction of the company on his Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. During the show Ryback would make some huge statements regarding WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, saying that he needs to sell the company as soon as possible.

“He tapped out, he’s not hungry anymore” Ryback began on the podcast. “From the level of a creative aspect of things? He hasn’t been. Because he’s got too much money. It’s [WWE] too big for his own good.”

Ryback on Vince McMahon

The Big Guy would elaborate further, saying “he’s being pulled in too many different directions. He has too many people working for him. The business is not…he’s not doing much wrong from a financial standpoint of creating revenue. That is what he cares about. That’s all he is, he goes ‘Ryan I am a business man;’ that’s all he’s looking at is the numbers. Vince McMahon is no longer interested in the details of creating compelling long term storylines and mega stars.”

Ryback would finish by referring to the Paul Heyman situation; with the former Executive Director of RAW being removed from his position. “We see it with the writers, like the Paul Heyman stuff, and they are crucial. He’s [McMahon] not…he doesn’t want to relinquish any control. He needs to sell the company and they need to get people that are hungry in these positions and the product. They have the stars there, they just need to get the right people that have a vision that want to prove themselves.”

Do you agree with Ryback’s assessment? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently commented on the creative direction of the company on his Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. The ‘Big Guy’ talked about Paul Heyman being removed as the Executive Director of RAW; plus the reasons he feels the company made that decision.

Ryback on Paul Heyman

“Vince [McMahon] is in control at the end of the day” Ryback would begin. “Heyman? Even with the little issues that I had with him from a personal standpoint and working together? He’s a creative individual, and I knew that being down at Ohio Valley Wrestling. Heyman had some good stuff down there.”

Ryback then claimed that anyone in that position with WWE ends up being Vince McMahon’s ‘bitch.’ “The problem is when…anybody who gets put in that position up there? You’re just Vince’s bitch. You’re going to work non stop, your stress level is going to go through the roof and your blood pressure is going to go through the roof. You are that much closer to a heart attack each and every day.”

The ‘Big Guy’ elaborated further, saying “you draw your best pictures and he [Vince] just rips it up and says ‘draw me another picture! Draw me another picture!’ There’s only so much you can do. Out of 100% of your ideas? You might see 10% make it to TV, but even that 10% is not your true 10%. It’s just Vince taking whatever scraps he takes from it to put out there.”

Do you think that Paul Heyman being removed from the position of Executive Director was a mistake? Let us know in the comments

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WWE Superstar Ryback recently made some extraordinary claims on a recent episode of the Shooting Blanks Wrestling Report podcast.

Ryback and co-host Raj Giri were discussing the recent furloughing of WWE’s Gerald Brisco. The former on-screen ‘stooge’ for Vince McMahon has been a fixture in the company for a number of years, having been one of the more prolific ‘scouts’ for the company. Brisco is credited as discovering Brock Lesnar, among others.

Ryback on Gerry Brisco

“He’s done so much for WWE, and for Vince [McMahon]” Ryback would begin, talking about the recently furloughed Brisco. “He’s one of those guys. But we’ve seen Vince cut ties with people that have been a part of that company from the beginning. [People who were] with him building all of this.”

Ryback would then discuss his time in FCW with Gerry’s son Wes Brisco. “I came up with Wes Brisco, his son, in developmental. Wes was always a great guy and Gerry was always so fantastic with me.”

‘The Big Guy’ would then reveal a fascinating story from his time in FCW. Gerald Brisco told the then ‘Terminator’ character that he would be a big star in WWE; and, that there was potential for Ryback to be the person to beat the then undefeated Undertaker at WrestleMania and break the historic streak.

The Streak

“He [Brisco] came up to me when I was in FCW as the ‘Ryback The Terminator’ character. I’d had a match, and I was new to the system. I never got a lot of positive reinforcement from anyone, like as far as anyone from the office. He [Brisco] was still in the position there at the time [helping and building talent]. And he just said ‘you’re going to be a major star in this company.’ He even said ‘I could see you breaking the Undertaker’s streak.’ He was dead serious. I remember thinking like, ‘holy sh*t like he sees something in me.’ I’ll never forget that.”

When Ryback first hit on the main roster at WWE he was being groomed for a major push and had a lot of potential heading into his first WWE Championship match against CM Punk. The circumstances of the situation meant that Ryback would not win the title, as Punk was on the road to his 434 day reign as Champion and a match against The Rock at the Royal Rumble.

Having said that, beating The Undertaker’s WrestleMania streak? Do you think Ryback could’ve been the guy to do so? Let us know in the comments.

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently commented on the WWE Championship situation on his Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. The ‘Big Guy’ would praise Drew McIntyre; discussing how he went from perennial jobber for life to become one of the most promising prospects of the next decade.

Another Superstar that Ryback would comment on was Jinder Mahal. The former 3MB member of course teamed with McIntyre for a big chunk of his WWE career alongside the now released Heath Slater. Both Mahal and McIntyre have held WWE main event gold; however while the seemingly ‘shocking’ WWE Championship win of Mahal seemed to be an anomaly? McIntyre looks set to remain in the main event picture.

Jinder Mahal Returns

Ryback would discuss how Jinder Mahal is a potential opponent for McIntyre down the line, seeing as both have parallels in their career paths and their history in the 3 Man Band stable. “He [Jinder Mahal] was off TV I think for like nine or 10 months? For a pretty significant period of time” Ryback would begin. “They [WWE] just assume that everyone forgets everything.”

Ryback would then talk about how WWE fans have a good memory when it comes to the perception of talent, with Jinder having previously played a lower-card comedy character. The subsequent rise of Mahal to the WWE Championship originally was such that unlike McIntyre, fans didn’t really seem to latch on to the ‘Modern Day Maharaja’ as a main event character.

In The ‘Circle’

“This is one of those things, I don’t think Jinder is in the ‘circle'” Ryback would continue. “I don’t think he ever was in the ‘circle.’ I think that he served a purpose for them by putting the title on him, because of the rumours of that whole thing with India? Whatever the reason was.”

The ‘Big Guy’ would then finish by talking about how Jinder was dropped down the pecking order by WWE after he lost the WWE Title. Ryback would also claim that talents in that coveted ‘circle’ do not get demoted after they lose a title. “You see the guys that are in the circle? They will stay [in the main event] well after. Jinder didn’t, and he was relegated back to no entrance, which is the worst thing for any wrestler. When you’re getting put out there with no entrance? That sh*ts not good.”

Scottish Psychopath vs Modern Day Maharaja?

Ryback finished by saying that he believes Jinder will get a shot at the title, but it will be a short program with McIntyre. “I think he’ll be used for a matchup for Drew. They’re [WWE] gonna make Jinder look like he was this former champion, build them up and to serve the purpose of getting a one off probably. My personal opinion? I hope it’s more for Jinder. But, just based on how they have used him throughout? He’s never, never been in the circle.”

Do you think that Jinder Mahal will get a match for the WWE Championship? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback has claimed that WWE’s Human Resources department is “non-existent.”

Ryback made his statements during a recent episode of his podcast, Conversation with the Big Guy Ryback, following comments from an anonymous WWE employee named ‘John.’ 

‘John’ stated he was afraid to work during the coronavirus pandemic but was worried about speaking out to WWE’s higher-ups as he needed the job. He claimed that “Despite sanitary precautions, we cannot maintain social distancing and have to touch other people. I request the government to shut down these tapings and enforce so my colleagues and I may follow social distancing rules without fear or repercussions of losing our jobs.” 

In response to this, Ryback stressed how he had never even heard of WWE HR. He asked listeners what they think would realistically happen if anybody did go forward to voice their concerns. “They [WWE] know, but nobody under contract is going to go do that. If you go to HR? It is career suicide. That’s the reality of the situation.”

Ryback argued how WWE suggests Superstars had a choice whether to work or not. He added how the majority of the talent wouldn’t contradict what WWE’s official statement is as they don’t want to risk their livelihoods. 

WWE has refuted the comments made by John. They explained that the accusations weren’t true and that employees can confidentially go to Human Resources if needed. WWE stressed that no one would be fired if they were uncomfortable to work amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

WWE also pointed out how they have previously made “accommodations” for individuals upon request. 

Former WWE Superstar Ryback recently made some explosive comments regarding Vince McMahon and his status as the biggest name in sports entertainment. With the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic causing most major sports leagues and brands to cease operations; WWE has continued to tape shows and it has created controversy that has seen WWE in the mainstream news cycle.

It is arguable that last week was potentially one of the worst in Vince McMahon’s career as the CEO of WWE. The XFL went bankrupt, WWE had to offload numerous on-air and backstage personalities on ‘Black Wednesday.’ Legendary Hall of Fame announcer and the first ever WWE employee Howard Finkel tragically passed away, and Oliver Luck, the former XFL Head is suing Vince McMahon for wrongful termination.

Vince McMahon The Businessman

On top of this, there are reports and rumors that WWE may be ‘forcing’ staff to work during the pandemic. This however is not confirmed but we will be following the situation closely.

“Just knowing what I know. Vince [McMahon] as a businessman? He is a very savvy, very cutthroat businessman” Ryback began on his Conversation With The Big Guy podcast. “What he’s been able to achieve? It’s at the expense of human lives and there’s a lot of things wrong with how he treats, specifically the wrestlers and people in general. I don’t even really need to even say anything anymore.”

Ryback “speaking up” for WWE Talent

Ryback would then elaborate further, discussing how fans have thanked him in the past for speaking up for the talent at WWE. “I’ve said my peace time and time again. I get people messaging me saying ‘you’ve told us the truth from the very beginning,’ and now they’re they’re finally seeing it just sit back and let everything play out this way. That’s kind of my take on this. I speak up for the wrestlers and I think karma is playing out.”

Losing Everything “In The Battle”

The ‘Big Guy’ would then reveal that he believes the worst is to come for Vince McMahon. “I honestly think we’re seeing the fall of Vince McMahon” Ryback stated. “He is truly being tested now, and I think he’s going to go down in flames. He’s going to go down swinging. Regardless, I could see him…he’s the type that will lose everything in the battle. And it’s the fact that there, it’s so public this, it’s right in your face what’s going on. And it’s almost like well ‘what do you guys gonna do about it?’ Okay, that’s worked in the past. The coronavirus is the one variable that he can’t control, and all it’s gonna take is one superstar dying, or their family member dying. Or just something, just even superstars getting it [COVID-19]. and it’s going to, it’s going to be a fire that not even Vince McMahon will be able to put out.”

WWE had previously announced that they would be taping live shows going forward on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. This has since been changed and certain shows will be taped to air at a later date. Either way, WWE seems to be playing with fire in this unprecedented situation.

Do you think WWE needs to take a break during the pandemic? Let us know in the comments

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Former WWE star Ryback has given his reaction to the situation of Roman Reigns pulling out of WrestleMania 36.

Reigns was supposed to challenge Goldberg for the WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania 36 – Night 1 earlier this month. However, Reigns announced his decision to pull out of the contest due to his concerns about the coronavirus as he has a weakened immune system with his leukemia battle.

Reigns is at a higher risk of complications from the virus and he didn’t feel comfortable with working the match. Thus, WWE got Braun Strowman to replace Reigns in the contest and had “The Monster Among Men” beat the legendary pro wrestler. 

Ryback defended Reigns from fan criticism during a recent talk with Wrestling Inc.

“It’s horrible and that’s that wrestling fanbase, and it’s more than wrestling, it’s a human thing that’s going on now and this is, again, social media,” Ryback said. “There’s nobody in person who is going to go up and criticize him, it doesn’t exist.”

Ryback continued by noting that when you get on social media, you need to have the full spectrum of it. He thinks the lowest of low people are the ones who are being critics of Reigns’ decision. 

He thinks those people haven’t evolved and just horrible human beings. He thinks that people need to be themselves and will get love and hate no matter what. 

“I’m so happy he stepped up, and a guy in that position is actually doing it, but he’s in that position. Now if he didn’t have that and did it, the criticism he would get a hell of a lot more, and internally in WWE it would be a different situation. 

He has that though, which is they cannot do anything with him, as far as depush him or anything of that nature. He has a little bit of built-in security with that.”

Ryback continued by noting that’s the negative wrestling fans. He thinks these are the same people that don’t want Reigns here. 

He thinks if Reigns does something and now that he’s not around, the name-calling is always a go to for that portion of the people. The reason for the name-calling is due to them not having any other options. 

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Former WWE Superstar Ryback has slammed Vince McMahon during a recent episode of Shooting Blanks Wrestling Report Podcast with Raj Giri. Reacting to McMahon’s decision to continue with WrestleMania 36 despite the coronavirus pandemic, Ryback claimed how the WWE Chairman doesn’t care about anyone or anything except his bank account.

“At the end of the day, and this is just this is my personal opinion, Vince doesn’t give a f*ck about anyone except for his bank account” Ryback began. “That is me being there and talking to a lot of other people in different generations, at different times, that have worked there [WWE]. And just personally? Seeing how things operate and looking him in his eyes on many many occasions; and just instinctually knowing that I never want anything to do with this type of human being.”

Ryback’s Opinion

Ryback stressed that this was just his opinion. He noted how the coronavirus is a “real-life experience” that humanity is collectively going through. He then reiterated his feelings, noting that Vince McMahon will at least “pretend” to care.

“I think he will…he’ll pretend that he cares but I don’t see it,” Ryback said. “The fact that they haven’t seen the other sporting organisations step up and say ‘we’re going to take care of this?’ They’re trying to figure out ways to run everything still. So that should tell you all that you need to know.”

WrestleMania 36 will now take place in multiple locations on April 4 and April 5. The decision was made to relocate from Raymond James Stadium in the wake of current coronavirus concerns. 

H/T to WrestlingNews for the transcription. 

Former WWE Superstar Ryback has shared that some current roster members believe WrestleMania may be cancelled due to coronavirus concerns. Addressing the situation on Ryback TV Shooting Blanks Wrestling Report With Raj Giri, Ryback highlighted the spread of the virus in the United States. He noted how it would only take one Superstar to get sick. If they did, the entire locker room would be affected in no time.

“From a wrestler’s standpoint, [WrestleMania] is in Tampa and they’re gonna bring people from all over the world to this location. If I’m a wrestler – and I’m speaking from the talent as I’ve talked to a couple of people – the talent believe that WrestleMania is possibly going to get cancelled. This is a business and it will impact a lot of things but you have to protect the wrestlers at all costs.”

Ryback On Fan Interactions During Coronavirus Concerns

Ryback added how there should be no fan interaction between Superstars and fans at any Axxess events, noting how “[…] wrestlers should only have to show up to WrestleMania and if you do the Hall of Fame, you keep the talent away from the audience.”

He continued, “You have to be really protective of the wrestlers from a business perspective if you go through with this. I have a feeling [Vince] is gonna try to go through with it no matter what. He’s gonna have to be forced to say ‘No’ if it does happen.”

Multiple events, conventions, attractions and concerts have been shut down, rescheduled and cancelled in order to combat the spread of the coronavirus. With ‘Mania taking place next month, officials are reportedly in serious talks to ensure the safety of fans and talent.

WrestleMania 36 takes place on April 5 from the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. 

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription. 

Former WWE Superstar and host of the Conversation With The Big Guy podcast Ryback recently discussed the situation regarding Matt Hardy.

Matt Hardy recently left WWE after his contract with the company finished. With the ‘Free The Delete‘ YouTube series Hardy has been teasing his next destination in the wrestling world.

The overwhelming belief is that Hardy will eventually end up in AEW; with The Young Bucks having appeared in a recent episode of Hardy’s online series.

Matt Hardy Going To AEW?

Ryback says he hopes Matt Hardy winds up in All Elite Wrestling, but expects him to enjoy a little ‘down time’ following his release from WWE.

“I had a little interaction with him, maybe four or five weeks ago” Ryback began. “He’s been in that system for so long. I think we all know how it works. And think it was just let the contract run out, and he’ll probably enjoy a little downtime. After you know, being there for the last few years. I would hope he goes to AEW personally, because I think a guy like that? You want their work; not just for himself, but to be working with the younger guys and instilling some of that psychology. Because he [Matt Hardy] does have good psychology.”

Potential Run on the Independent Scene

Ryback would elaborate further, describing how beneficial Matt Hardy could be to the AEW brand. “He’s very creative, and I think he’s gonna he’ll be very beneficial to that AEW roster…if he can get there eventually. I wouldn’t be shocked if he did a little run on the Indies again though, just because.”

He continued, “I mean you can clean up as far as financially [working the independent scene]. It’s very laid back and it’s very enjoyable there when you first leave WWE as far as what that money that is offered on the table. It’s great and he, he will be able to probably have a nice run with that if you want and then go to AEW or just jump right in one day a week anyways. He may just be ready to go, So, I hope he’s at AEW at end of the day.”

Subscribe top Matt Hardy’s YouTube channel to follow his Free The Delete series and other Hardy-branded digital content.

Ryback has addressed WWE’s decision to block their Superstars from appearing on Vickie Guerrero’s podcast. This comes in the wake of her appearance last December on an episode of AEW’s YouTube show, Dark. The revelation has sparked some debate from those within the industry. To Ryback, however, people shouldn’t be surprised.

“Not surprising,” Ryback said during an episode of Shooting Blanks Wrestling Report. “There’s some WWE guys, and I’m friends with some of them, that I can get on [this show].”

He continued, “Even guys that I’m friends with, I know they have to go the office to get approval to do [things]. That’s what I remember when I was there. They added that in which is crazy for independent contractors. They’re not allowed to make decisions on their own. WWE says you’re not allowed to do any interviews unless it’s approved by us, so that’s really odd to do that to independent contractors.”

Ryback: “That’s What They Do”

Ryback explained how “that’s what they do.” He pointed to a time he had Dolph Ziggler come onto the show. He highlighted how they didn’t even talk about wrestling and instead stuck to comedy for a full hour. They did this because if they spoke about wrestling, there would have been “repercussions” for Ziggler, be it a fine or punishment. 

Although not surprised by WWE’s ruling, Ryback shared how he doesn’t like hearing it happen. “It makes it tougher. I would love to talk to guys that I’ve wrestled with and could share stories with. It’s just the way that it is. It’s what they do. It shouldn’t come to a surprise to anybody.”

Vickie Guerrero appeared on the 12/11 episode of Dark, where she joined Excalibur as a guest commentator. 

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

The Big Guy wants to be fed more. Ryback sat down recently for an interview with Chris Van Vliet and said he plans to return to wrestling in 2020. He talked about how recent stem cell treatments have left his back feeling great and when he’s healthy enough, he plans on making the call to return.

“I’ve been told I have a meeting (with WWE) whenever I want,” Ryback said. “Now, how true that is, I don’t know, don’t really care. Getting my health back is my main priority.”

He did say he does not want to return to a hectic wrestling schedule, however.

“I never want to return to it 4-5 days a week,” he said. “People always ask, when I’m healthy and when I know when I’m going to be available, I will pick up the phone and make a phone call and we’ll go from there.”

He continued to say his first priority is his Feed Me More nutrition, however.

Ryback also mentioned that he and Vince McMahon’s brother Rod McMahon are friends.

“Me and Rod are friends and he goes ‘Well, Vince always speaks very highly about you,'” Ryback said during the interview.

Ryback Legally Changes His Name To Ryback

Ryback has legally changed his name to Ryback to combat any trademark issues with WWE. His birth name is Ryan, which he says made the decision easier for him.

“I didn’t necessarily want to do that,” Ryback said. “If my wrestling name was Grizzly Bear, I wasn’t going to change my name to that more likely than not. I looked at it like Ryback/Ryan, that’s not too bad.”

He then mentioned that he’s spoken to Mark Carrano from WWE recently, asking them to drop their trademark filing for Ryback.

“I actually sent Mark Carrano a message last week, nothing mean, just ‘I would really appreciate it if you guys dropped this on your own. I’m going to be really upset if you don’t.'”

Ryback also discusses AEW, the state of wrestling, and much more. The full interview can be viewed in the player below:

Former WWE Superstar Ryback was declared that All Elite Wrestling’s “excitement period” is officially over.

Speaking on a recent episode of his podcast, Conversation with the Big Guy, Ryback explained why he thinks people are over the initially boon of interest in AEW’s alternative product.

“The excitement period is over for the new company, essentially. That was going to happen and there was nothing they can do,” he stated. “I think though, as time goes on, and I think as more names become freed up in pro wrestling and other opportunities arise; say, Rusev’s contract is up and the following week he shows up on AEW or whenever he can, that would be a big deal and that would spark some interest because Rusev has a fanbase. That would kick them up a little notch and you would have more angles that you can do with Rusev, or whoever it is, a Luke Harper shows up. That’s another guy now where you just start slowly building that roster up who has name value.”

Several WWE Superstars have openly vented their frustrations with the company in recent months. Ryback noted how WWE has been ensuring talent can’t simply jump over to AEW, doing all they can to entice Superstars in staying.

“[…] the problem is that WWE is really f—g smart. They locked down so many of those guys it’s like, AEW what are you going to do? Because they know how it is to get guys over, you can’t get independent guys over as a group. It is a tough sell so I think as time goes on, I think that AEW is going to continue to try. They have to stay afloat and I think eventually guys will start getting freed up and by then it’s going to create some opportunities for them to be pushing the numbers.”

You can see the latest viewership figures from this past Wednesday’s NXT and AEW shows here.

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription. 

While CM Punk is back with WWE as an analyst on WWE Backstage, there are no plans of him getting back in the ring. Many fans believed that if Punk were to go to a wrestling company, it would be AEW. Punk’s return to WWE was a shock to many and Ryback discussed this matter and gave his opinion on why Punk signed with WWE instead of AEW.

Speaking to Wrestling Inc.’s Raj Giri, Ryback revealed that he believes Punk signed with WWE because the company and FOX have allowed him to give his opinion “shoot on stuff” if he wants to. Ryback also added that this opportunity might get Punk his dream WrestleMania match that he always wanted.

“CM Punk, this weird dynamic, who at one time didn’t want anything to do with pro wrestling is all of a sudden going in and talking about WWE. And like I said, I think it is a weird chess game going on where he is going to go there and shoot on stuff in a more negative way and call bulls**t when he sees it on things that he doesn’t like, and he is allowed to give his opinion on different things. And FOX is going to allow it, where it is going to create a situation where he is going to probably be able to go back and get the WrestleMania main event match that he always wanted. That is what I feel like is going on, and that is why I feel like he didn’t go to AEW,” said Ryback.

It’s known that one of the reasons Punk left WWE was that he never got to headline WrestleMania in a final main event match. Ryback thinks Punk was fed up with not getting a WM main event and was done for good with the company. Ryback says that once you get out of the wrestling bubble you wouldn’t go back and work the exhausting full-time WWE schedule ever again. He compares it to Shawshank Redemption. “It’s like Shawshank Redemption, once you are out, it is a beautiful thing when you are truly free from there.”

Ryback added that there is a weird dynamic going on with Punk being able to come on WWE programming and shoot on what he wants. He believes Punk might have even figured out how to get himself into the main event of WrestleMania.

h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the quotes

Former WWE Superstar Ryback has discussed the rise of WWE talent requesting their releases from the company. Speaking on an episode of his podcast, Conversations with the Big Guy, Ryback highlighted Sin Cara’s recent request to leave the promotion. Like several Superstars before him, including Luke Harper and Mike Kanellis, Sin Cara took to Twitter and shared the news with his fanbase. 

“The lack of respect they [WWE] give to so many of the guys,” Ryback said. “Especially guys that have tenure there who have helped you make the guys that you are investing in, even more, that is the part of wrestling that really upsets me, they treat you like you are not a winner if you are not winning, but it’s fake. It’s the most ass backward community I have ever seen in my life.”

He continued, “That is the system that they [WWE] try. They want you to feel insecure and to not speak, they want you to do whatever, so I believe, and he is a man who I have no doubt in my mind that he has had conversations with Vince McMahon and Triple H, for him, if he is going on social media and doing it, this was his way of saying f–k you to you guys, you’re not listening I’m just going to put it out in public now you are going to acknowledge it one way or another and he gets to go home.”

Ryback then claimed that WWE has “walked all over pro wrestlers.” He noted how, now that talent have more than one company to make a living with, they need to “man up more than ever.” Ryback juxtaposed their requests his own WWE exit, explaining that he waited until he had saved enough money. Only then was he confident that he could leave and be comfortable as he pursued other opportunities.

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription. 

On a recent episode of his podcast, Conversations with the Big Guy, Ryback speculated over what might happen if All Elite Wrestling (AEW) beat WWE’s NXT in the ratings.

He stated he doesn’t believe WWE will lose the Wednesday Night War as “NXT is a reflection of the WWE brand.”

“It is WWE, so I don’t know how long they keep the current format, but I think if they go in, I think they are going to be shocked if they go into the losing end in all of this,” said Ryback.

“Vince McMahon Is Very Highly Competitive”

If they were to begin losing ratings to AEW, Ryback believes that WWE would probably change the format. He suggested that the promotion would pair NXT with RAW or SmackDown. This would give them the chance to capitalize on bigger crowds versus filming at Full Sail University.

“If they do [lose ratings], I wouldn’t be shocked at all if they do switch the format where they record NXT on a RAW or SmackDown brand and they adjust things where they have the big crowd currently there. I think they will definitely look for something if they think they are losing because of the live audience. They are not going to want to keep losing in the ratings, I know that much. Vince McMahon is very highly competitive, so I think they are looking at it like this is a good way to slow down AEW with NXT.”

NXT moves to USA Network on September 18th. AEW’s debut show on TNT will air a few weeks later on October 2nd.

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

With CM Punk in attendance for Starrcast III, speculation has sparked once again over Punk returning to professional wrestling.

During an episode of Conversation With The Big Guy, Ryback addressed Punk’s Starrcast booking. He also spoke about the possibility that Punk could one day wrestle for All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

“I’m sure that those guys [AEW] have made it known that they are open to signing him. In pro wrestling, guys can wrestle well in their older age, but he has been out of it for a while, and I don’t know. I think it’s just him taking a signing,” Ryback observed.

He added that, if Punk were interested in coming back to in-ring action, he would have to “do it at an upper level, and he has to have that hunger to do it again. […] only he will know that.”

Open Arms

“I have heard The Young Bucks talk about it to welcome him with open arms, and maybe they believe if he comes around it that itch will come back, which is very possible. If anywhere he is going to go, I think AEW with that schedule is the most welcoming of all the situations for him.”

He continued, “I would personally think it would be a great move if he was able to go back and maybe he does do a surprise appearance there and hits the GTS and cuts a promo and to see how the reception is, but obviously being in Chicago he is going to have a great reception there regardless.”

AEW has now revealed details over their anticipated TNT TV show, which will debut on the network on October 2nd. Their next pay-per-view event is All Out, which takes place on August 31st.

Starrcast III takes place between August 29-September 1st in the Hyatt Regency Chicago, Schaumburg, Illinois.

Thanks to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

Next week sees WWE host a special RAW Reunion of their long-running Monday night show. Numerous past WWE Superstars and Hall Of Famers will be participating, including Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin to name a few.

Former WWE Superstar, Ryback, has shared his thoughts on this RAW Reunion. Speaking on an episode of his podcast, Conversation with the Big Guy, Ryback commented that WWE should be pairing their current talent with the returning legends.

In the past, Superstars have shared interactions with returning legends, usually in promo or comedy segments.

RAW Reunion

“You have to use today’s talent with those [classic superstars on RAW Reunion],” Ryback claimed. “This is why I talk about AEW is going to have a real issue making stars, it’s like me when I got to working in the main event scene working with CM Punk. I had wrestled nobody up until that point, but when you put me in the ring with CM Punk, it elevates me instantly because I’m getting the rub of being in the ring with this famous guy and hanging with him. And then you see me in the ring with Chris Jericho, and John Cena, and all these other big names, so that’s what happens with other guys. It’s harder when you don’t have those big, marquee names to help elevate the new guys.”

He added that WWE should “[…] put a Finn Balor in the ring with a Stone Cold Steve Austin, or you put Razor Ramon in the ring with Elias, or whoever and you use them in a good capacity with those guys. [….] It elevates them, and I think, especially if the guys are able to work, you’re able to do it even better when you can pay it off with a match. But that’s the whole celebrity thing in wrestling that’s missing that’s very, very important. So hopefully they make some changes on that and do something big.”

Despite the appearances of legends next week, Ryback remains dubious they will have a significant effect on WWE’s ratings. He believes that the promotion needs to drastically reformat their strategy moving forward.

With Heyman and Bischoff now Executive Directors of RAW and SmackDown, ‘The Big Guy’ may just see his assertions come true.

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

At one point, Ryback was one of the hottest pro-wrestlers in the world. The 37-year-old left WWE in 2016 and has since been vocal in his criticisms of his former employer.

Ryback sat down for an interview with Chris Van Vliet and spoke on quitting WWE, his thoughts on AEW, and if he plans to get back into wrestling.

“I told them f**k you, take me off TV and I left,” Ryback said on leaving WWE. “I walked out of St. Louis and I went home. They tried to stop my pay and they weren’t going to pay me while I rode out my contract so I went on injury pay and got my ear and nose fixed and they paid me all the way up until my contract expired on August 8th I believe.”

Ryback also spoke during the interview about trying to be more positive on social media and said that is working out much better for him.

Ryback Interview Highlights

He also spoke about what being booked to lose frequently was like in his final stretch with the company.

“You can only do what they tell you to go out and do. People that say ‘Oh you lost the big one’ no, I won. I played the role. You don’t say to an actor because he got killed in a scene that he lost or that he was a loser. Pro wrestling is the exact same thing as far as that goes it’s just portrayed a little differently.”

Ryback also said he’s very excited for the changes AEW could bring to the industry.

“I’m excited, we got AEW here and I’m very happy for Cody and everybody involved in that. They have a huge advantage in wrestling right now because they’re starting fresh and and they can do it right and they can do wrestling better than WWE. Now are they going to come in and take over right away? Not right away. But if they put out a great product and they take care of the wrestlers, every pro wrestler will want to go wrestle there.”

• Ryback Comments On WWE’s “Grueling” Schedule