Sheamus is hungry for the King of The Ring crown, fella. ‘The Celtic Warrior’ made his memorable return to WWE over a week ago on WWE RAW and quite the chatter revolved around Sheamus’ new waist size.
While the former WWE Champ hasn’t missed a beat in the ring, Sheamus has clearly put on a couple pounds and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans or his colleagues. Fortunately for Sheamus, he’s self-aware of his own size.
Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger after Burger
This past week on RAW, Sheamus confronted an old friend in Drew McIntyre, noting that he took his eye off the ball at WrestleMania and blew his World Title reign to a one-armed CM Punk. Sheamus shot straight with McIntyre, but so did Drew, criticizing his long-time buddy’s noticable weight gain. Sheamus laughed off the criticism, noting to McIntyre that he’s been getting at better one-liners.
McIntyre sat at ringside to witness Sheamus defeat RAW, but his comments on Sheamus’ size lingered long after the tape stopped rolling.
Sheamus took to social media to share a picture of the longtime creepy Burger King mascot, indicating that he wants to be known has the “Burger King” after he wins the King Of The Ring in Saudi Arabia.
Sheamus Takes Another Shot At Drew McIntyre
Sheamus wasn’t finished with his quips against McIntyre, but neither was Drew. McIntyre shared the classic Scott Steiner interview clip calling Samoa Joe “fat.”
Sheamus shot back, stating once more that McIntyre fumbled his shot at a lengthy World Title reign.
“After you gave him a deranged lapdance at Mania… CM Punk Kicked Your Arse.”
Welcome to the Daily Drop for Friday, April 19, 2024.Tonight on TV we have WWE SmackDown and AEW Rampage, which will serve as one of the final stops on the road to Sunday’s AEW Dynasty pay-per-view.
There was a lot of news coming out of this week’s ‘World Congress of Sports’ convention from Los Angeles, including Paul Levesque and Nick Khan talking about WWE changing up its approach to WrestleMania locations and dates. We can also look forward to seeing more International premium live events, but not the ‘Big 5.’
Don’t miss SEScoops correspondent Scott Fishman’s write-up of his first visit to the ECW Arena in Philadelphia over WrestleMania 40 weekend. He survived and had a pretty great time visiting the home of ‘extreme’ Here we go:
AEW:
Tonight on Rampage:
Jamie Hayter & Dr. Britt Baker vs. Ruby Soho & Toni Storm
TNT Championship Match: Powerhouse Hobbs vs. Wardlow
Jay White vs. Komander
The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn vs. Matt Menard, Angelo Parker & Jake Hager
Plus, Chris Jericho confronts Adam Cole and we’ll hear from The Elite and FTR.
Schamberger All Elite? Former WWE ‘artist in residence’ Rob Schamberger appears to be collaborating with AEW.
AJ Styles vs. LA Knight to determine the #1 contender to Cody Rhodes’ WWE Championship
Naomi challenges Bayley for the Women’s Championshi
SmackDown Tag Team Title #1 Contender’s Match: The Street Profits vs. Pete Dunne & Tyler Bate vs. Angel & Humberto vs. The Authors of Pain
Cody Rhodes vs. The Rock: On WWE Raw the night after WrestleMania 40, The Rock congratulated Cody Rhodes on finishing his story and assured the new champ they will square off in the ring one day. The ‘American Nightmare’ appeared on Good Morning Britain on Thursday to promote this week’s UK live events tour. He fully expects ‘Final Boss’ to back up his words and has an interesting reason for why.
Fella Fires Back: Sheamus was a recent victim of ‘body shaming’ from online trolls, but responded to one of the trash talkers directly on social media. ** Not that he has to explain his physical appearance to random people on the Internet, but Sheamus said he was expecting to have several more weeks to get in shape before returning to television.
Bloodline Reunion? Jey Uso said on The Bump that he hopes he can one day reunite with Solo Sikoa, Roman Reigns and his brother.
“All in all though, I would like for us to come back together, but as a healed up family. We fighting right now. All families fight, but I want us to come back as the good guys one time and see how works. But if it wasn’t for The Bloodline, I really wouldn’t be Main Event or sitting here with YEET shirts. I had to go through that whole process to help me grow, and I feel like the people watched my story unfold.”
WWE superstar Sheamus made his highly anticipated return to the company on the April 15 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw. He took on Ivar in a physical matchup that saw him win with his signature Brogue Kick. Although some fans were happy to see him back after neck surgery, he drew criticism over his physique.
Sheamus appeared noticeably heavier than when he last appeared on WWE TV. While he competed similar to what he had in the past, some fans couldn’t help poking fun at his body. This has led to a debate on social media and memes from fans criticizing ‘The Celtic Warrior’ appearance.
After his match with Ivar, the WWE superstar noticed the fan reaction and tried to play it off. The following day, he responded to fans’ body-shaming by writing on Twitter that “I’m just big boned.”
After hearing more complaints from the internet wrestling community, Sheamus took to Twitter again to defend himself.
Sheamus Comments On Body-Shamming From Fans
On Twitter, the former WWE Champion acknowledged the body shaming he’s received by posting a meme about himself. He also shared that he wasn’t supposed to compete on the April 15 episode while preparing for a return at the WWE Draft. However, he has been working to get back into the shape he desires.
Ok Ok take your best shots.. Whalemus, Too Many Pies, etc.. and then we’re done with the photoshopping & shaming. I was aiming for the Draft & got an early call-up. My bad. On me. Been sleeping in the gym ever since SO watch this space ?? i appreciate the love too #Sheamoosepic.twitter.com/KlO6TmWTz4
Unfortunately, some of the WWE fanbase continued to body-shame Sheamus, leading to his supporters coming to his defense online.
Fans Come To Defense Over Sheamus Being Body-Shamed
In response to the criticism over Sheamus’s physique, wrestlers and wrestling content creators have come to his aid on Twitter. One of the notable support came from Impact Wrestling superstar Jordynne Grace.
“Every single person I’ve seen talking shit either doesn’t have a profile or look like they haven’t lifted a weight in their entire life,” wrote Grace.
More support has come in for Sheamus. Here are a few.
You don't owe none of these shits an explanation!! As long as you're healthy and happy.. we're happy!!
I’m just thankful to have Sheamus back in the ring ??
Anyone clowning him & his body can fck off
Sidebar: I hope he brings back Celtic Warrior Workouts…really appreciate those vids & him jumping out of his comfort zone ?? pic.twitter.com/Yt7bYAbrxb
If I see anyone body shaming Sheamus, it’s an instant block. You’ve got to have rocks for brains if you think Sheamus can’t beat you to a pulp and then steal your girl.
The USA Channel Twitter account has also expressed support for ‘The Celtic Warrior’ by posting, “You look great!”
What’s Next For Sheamus?
Although Sheamus is receiving negative backlash, he also has fans who are happy that he is back and ready to speak in his defense. As stated in his tweet, he prepares to make the best of his return.
The win over Ivar was an excellent showing for his comeback and set up opportunities for the future. Sheamus will be involved in the WWE Draft from April 26 through April 29. It’s unclear what he’ll sign with, but the former WWE Champion will likely want to make his presence felt. If his match with Ivar indicates his condition and motivation, Sheamus could be a force to be reckoned with in WWE.
Sheamus has sent a stern warning to the talents in the locker room after making a triumphant return on last night’s WWE Raw.
The ‘Celtic Warrior’ spoke to backstage interviewer Jackie Redmond in a Raw Exclusive. He was thrilled with the warm ovation from the wrestling fans in Montreal and said it was great to be back on Canadian soil, the site of his last match before taking time off to heal injuries. The niceties then shifted to a stern warning for the WWE locker room: you “don’t want this.”
“It’s kind of ironic. My last match at WWE before tonight was in Toronto, Canada, in August. My first match back is in Montreal, Canada, and I couldn’t have ever expected a response like that from these Canadian fans tonight in Montreal. It was off the charts, and that’s why it’s been so hard sitting at home for the last couple of months. But if you want me to send a message to everyone in the WWE locker room, I only have four words. You don’t want this.”
Sheamus returns from injury
After last week’s teaser, Sheamus made his return and also brought back his old theme song, “Written In My Face.” He emerged victorious over Ivar and following the win, he celebrated with WWE commentators, Pat McAfee and Michael Cole.
This marks his first appearance since last year’s August 18 edition of Friday Night SmackDown. That night he fought WWE Hall of Famer Edge in the latter’s final match for the company before heading to AEW. The Irish superstar had been sidelined after he faced some shoulder issues and underwent surgery.
There is no doubt that the WWE roster is stacked with a plethora of talents. But Sheamus’ return only bolsters the roster as WWE ushers in a new era with Triple H at the helm.
However, there had been reports that his contract would expire this year. The details of his current contract have not emerged. If he hasn’t penned a new deal already, he would join the long list of superstars whose contracts run out this year.
Multi-time World Champion Sheamus will be back on television very soon. A promo aired on this week’s WWE Raw touting the Celtic Warrior’s imminent return.
Sheamus has been out of action since last summer. His most recent match took place on a very special episode of WWE SmackDown back on August 18, 2023. He wrestled WWE Hall of Famer Edge that night in what would ultimately be the Rated R Superstar’s final match before jumping to AEW.
While WWE says Sheamus is officially back, Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select reports that WWE sources have indicated we may not see him until the week of the 2024 WWE Draft, “or won’t have a defined brand until then.”
More on the 2024 WWE Draft
The 2024 WWE Draft begins later this month on WWE SmackDown (4/26) and will continue on WWE RAW (4/29). WWE typically runs a ‘supplemental draft’ with additional roster moves announced in the following day(s).
The WWE Draft is a chance to ‘shake things up’ and creating a host of fresh matchups for the year ahead. It’s also an opportunity for the top stars of NXT to be ‘called up’ to the main roster.
We already know that NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov will be part of this year’s Draft and will be a top prospect for General Managers Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis. Another NXT star expected to be joining Raw or SmackDown is Carmelo Hayes, who we spoke with over the weekend just before Saturday’s NXT Stand & Deliver premium live event:
WWE Superstars use social media all the time to connect with fans, hype their matches, and comment on society. Now, fans have one less Superstar to follow on Twitter/X.
Sheamus has been out of action since last year with a shoulder injury. Word is that his contract is up this year, but he still hasn’t returned. Now, the Celtic Warrior has taken himself off Elon Musk’s social media platform.
Sheamus Leaves Twitter/X
Although it is unclear why Sheamus would have nixed his Twitter/X account, that is the case. He hasn’t had any controversial posts, but he still exited the site.
His hiatus from WWE television aligns with a significant shoulder injury he’s been dealing with. Coincidentally, this absence also corresponds with the nearing expiration of his WWE contract, prompting speculation among fans regarding his potential re-signing with the company.
Sheamus is known for his active presence on Twitter, often providing updates on his status during his WWE break. That being said, he hasn’t upset anyone or had any reason to deactivate his account. Even though that is the case, his sudden deactivation of his Twitter account has come as a surprise to many.
What’s Next For Sheamus
It is very possible that WWE is freezing Sheamus’ contract, so he can’t leave so soon. We will have to see when he returns, but the Brawling Brutes faction was also disbanded in the meantime.
SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more, in case there are new updates. Hopefully, Sheamus will be back soon, because you know if would rather not miss WrestleMania 40.
AEW wrestler Nyla Rose has proven to be a force to be reckoned with in the ring, and she now wants to take her shot at the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Taking to Twitter, Rose shared her experience watching last year’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, and was moved by a scene in which the humans helped the Turtles leader Shredder. In a follow-up tweet, Rose shared her hope to play TMNT staple baddie Krang in the sequel.
It has been confirmed that Mutant Mayhem will receive a sequel though details remain scarce on the plot. A TV series about Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michaelangelo is also in the works.
Who is Krang?
An alien being from Dimension X, Krang first appeared in the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated show as part of the second episode. His first comic book appearance was in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures vol. 1, #1, published by Archie Comics in August 1988. Krang is often seen working alongside Shredder, another staple villain of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles universe.
While not physically imposing, Krang possesses an impressive intellect and some psychic powers. He can often be found piloting an android body which provides him with great strength.
Wrestling and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Should Rose be selected as the voice of Krang, she’ll join former WWE Champion John Cena who voiced Rocksteady in Mutant Mayhem. Sheamus played the same character in the 2016 live-action film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out Of The Shadows.
WWE fans resisted Pete Dunne’s name change to Butch at first. That one-word name grew on people eventually, but it appears more changes are coming for the former NXT UK Champion.
Changes Coming For Butch
The Brawling Brutes stable, consisting of Sheamus, Ridge Holland, and Butch, are no more. The faction quietly broke up, as Butch made mention of that fact during a promo with Tyler Bate a couple of weeks ago.
Now, Sean Ross Sapp reports on Fightful Select that Butch is in for a presentation change. Those hints were already dropped on SmackDown.
It was noted that, during that pre-produced vignette on Smackdown where Butch revealed that the Brawling Brutes broke up, he said he had to make a name for himself. Now, a change back to Pete Dunne is being discussed.
Fightful has confirmed that a change back to Pete Dunne has long been discussed, with one source in WWE telling Corey Brennan “it’s exactly what it looks like.”
Backstage Reaction To Butch’s Initial Name Change
The report further noted that when “Butch’s name was changed from Dunne, it got some of the heaviest pushback in recent WWE memory.” Fans did not love the name change at first, either.
One source reportedly brought up Bushwhacker Butch as they said, “It wasn’t even that it was a bad name. The name was okay, it was fine. But there was already a Butch. An actual wrestler named Butch already in our Hall of Fame.”
WWE has changed Superstar names for one reason or another throughout the years, for any number of reasons. While Butch did have a good run on the WWE main roster, it appears that Vince McMahon change to Pete Dunne’s character may get swapped back by Triple H.
Pete Dunne returned this week on SmackDown, under that name, He received a massive pop as he came out to team with Tyler Bate. The team took on Pretty Deadly, and his change back to the Dunne name received a great reaction.
WWE started off 2024 for RAW in a huge way with Day 1. That included The Rock’s return. It is SmackDown’s turn now, as they have New Years Revolution ready to go. That may include a long-awaited return.
Possible Spoiler for 1/5 WWE SmackDown
PW Insider reports that Paul Ellering has been spotted in Vancouver, the site of WWE’s New Years Revolution SmackDown. Naturally, an AOP return is expected for tonight’s show.
WWE Hall of Famer Paul Ellering was spotted in Vancouver this morning.
The expectation, as PWInsider.com reported previously several weeks ago, is that he and The Authors of Pain will return to WWE on tonight’s Smackdown as part of an alliance with Karrion Kross and Scarlett.
Authors of Pain Future in WWE
Many WWE Fans expect that Karrion Kross will be aligned with the Authors of Pain upon their return. That could be a powerful faction with Kross, Scarlett, Paul Ellering and AOP.
I was told that Authors of Pain were quietly signed to new deals well over a year ago. It’s been the plan to pair them back up with Paul Ellering as well. That trio was a favorite of Triple H’s, one that Vince McMahon disbanded upon AOP’s entry onto the WWE main roster.
Vince McMahon wanted someone younger, and an active wrestler, to lead AOP to the ring. That is why Paul Ellering was replaced by Drake Maverick. Now, Ellering is getting back with AOP.
This week’s SmackDown will be their New Years Revolution show. They have a loaded card planned, which you may find below.
Second Possible Spoiler For 1/5 WWE SmackDown
Pretty Deadly has a match against Butch this week on SmackDown. Butch needs to find a partner for that match. It was also noted on PW Insider that Sheamus is expected to fill that slot.
Sheamus, whose WWE contract expires this year, has been out of action with a shoulder injury. He sat on the sidelines while other members of the Brawling Brutes carries on without him. This week may see the Celtic Warrior’s return.
WWE SmackDown January 5th New Years Revolution Card:
Roman Reigns returns LIVE to SmackDown
AJ Styles, Randy Orton and LA Knight to collide in Triple Threat Match
Kevin Owens battles Santos Escobar in the United States Championship Tournament Final
Logan Paul comes to SmackDown
Butch must find a partner to take on Pretty Deadly
WWE is closing out 2023 with some big headlines, and a ton of momentum as they race toward the Royal Rumble on January 27th. This next calendar year will also include some notable moments with WWE’s business, and they want to make sure a big roster shake-up isn’t a part of that.
2024 Will Be A Big Year For WWE
WWE faces significant changes as they navigate new television deals in 2024. There are indications that WWE RAW might depart from the USA Network, and it’s confirmed that NXT will transition from the USA to the CW Network, while SmackDown is set to leave FOX for a return to the USA. Superstar contracts are also a big matter of concern for the company in 2024.
Expiring WWE Talent Contracts in 2024
The upcoming year brings the expiration of contracts for notable stars like Becky Lynch, World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins, Sheamus, and Drew McIntyre.
Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio have secured new deals with WWE, with Dominik’s contract reportedly spanning five years. While the length of Rey’s deal remains unconfirmed, there’s a belief that it’s a substantial, long-term commitment.
While going over all of these subjects during Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer highlighted WWE’s strategy to prevent talent from entering the free-agent market by securing them with substantial, extended contracts, a practice they’ve adhered to for decades.
“They’re [WWE] obviously very happy because they signed both of them. Both of them could have waited until free agency, and at that point, they could have gotten probably a giant offer from AEW and a giant offer from WWE. But obviously, WWE really made it worth their while, which was what I was told is that they are going to they were looking at longtime deals with, greatly increased compensation for the guys because they don’t want free agents right now,”
It was also noted that WWE is planning to pick up those contract talks once again in 2024. They may wait until the Holidays are behind them, but there is no doubt that they don’t want to lose those top Superstars.
AEW could be in the market to offer big money to any of those top Superstar with expiring deals. WWE realizes that, and they also do not want to lose people who they used to promote those new blockbuster television deals before they start in October, either.
Which match will close out WrestleMania 39: Night One on Saturday, April 1?
With the star power in the match between Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns Vs. Cody Rhodes, it has long been accepted that this match will headline Night Two.
WWE is yet to confirm the main event for either night, or whether any match will be on Saturday or Sunday.
Intercontinental Main Event
WWE SmackDown Superstar Sheamus has never closed out a WrestleMania, but he plans on changing that in a matter of weeks.
Sheamus will face friend and longtime rival Drew McIntyre this Friday, with the winner facing Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER at WrestleMania 39.
Taking to Twitter to promote the St. Patrick’s Day clash, Sheamus said that his victory would mean he headlines WrestleMania 39: Night One.
St. Patrick’s Day 2023. Kansas City. Drew McIntyre V Sheamus. Winner: IC Title Match Main Event at Wrestlemania 39 Day One.. Next Friday “Remember Murrayfield” #SCOvIRE#luckoftheirishpic.twitter.com/UDGCPhmi23
The Sheamus-McIntyre match was formed last week, after both men scored a pinfall during a five-way to determine GUNTHER’s opponent.
It has been reported that WWE’s plan is for a triple-threat match for the title at WrestleMania 39.
The Intercontinental Championship has headlined one WrestleMania, that being WrestleMania 6 when Champion the Ultimate Warrior faced WWF Champion Hulk Hogan in a title-for-title match.
Other Night One Contenders
Sheamus Vs. McIntyre Vs. GUNTHER would be a physical main event to WrestleMania 39: Night One, but it isn’t the only option.
It has been reported that WWE is considering SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair Vs. Rhea Ripley as the closer for the show.
Some have argued that given his popularity, Sami Zayn should headline Night One in the rumored tag match with Kevin Owens against Undisputed WWE Tag Champions The Usos.
Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER’s reign may be in serious jeopardy if WWE goes ahead with plans for a blockbuster triple-threat match at WrestleMania 39.
The Austrian powerhouse captured the title on WWE SmackDown in June of last year and is the longest-reigning champion since 2005.
If GUNTHER holds on to the gold for another week, he will surpass Shelton Benjamin’s reign and become the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion of this millennium.
WrestleMania 39
GUNTHER’s performance since coming to the main roster has been heralded by fans, as seen with the response to his record-shattering performance at last weekend’s Royal Rumble.
While it was previously reported that WWE was planning on GUNTHER Vs Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 39, that no longer appears to be the case.
Wrestle Votes reports that WWE is considering an epic triple-threat in which the leader of Imperium will defend his title against Drew McIntyre and Sheamus.
I’m told while not decided 100%, there are plans to feature an Intercontinental Championship 3 way match at WrestleMania: Gunther v Sheamus v Drew McIntyre. There are a number of supporters within creative that not only want the match, but they want it towards the top. TBD.
McIntyre is a former IC Champion, winning the title in December 2009 and holding the gold until May 2010.
Though he was suspended (in storyline) and stripped of the title by then SmackDown GM Teddy Long, an edict by Mr. McMahon undid Long’s actions, and WWE counts McIntyre’s run as one, uninterrupted reign.
Sheamus is yet to hold the Intercontinental Championship, which is the only title he needs to complete the Grand Slam.
Both McIntyre and Sheamus have spoken previously about wanting to be the one to dethrone the Austrian, and Sheamus’ pursuit of the title led to the much-acclaimed match at WWE Clash at the Castle last September.
The Intercontinental Champion, Gunther, has set a new record in the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match.
Gunther entered as number one, going up against Sheamus at the start of the Royal Rumble match. He outlasted 28 other opponents in the Royal Rumble before getting eliminated by a returning Cody Rhodes. While he didn’t win, he had a great showing and broke a new record.
The intercontinental champ has set the record for the most time spent in a Royal Rumble match. He lasted one hour, eleven minutes, and 25 seconds. The previous record holder was Rey Mysterio from the 2006 Royal Rumble match, with one hour, two minutes, and 12 seconds.
Although Gunther lost the Royal Rumble match, he had exciting encounters with several wrestlers. He had a standoff with Brock Lesnar, an opponent he has not faced. However, it seems WWE may have teased another match between Lesnar and Bobby Lashley.
In the match, Gunther eliminated both Sheamus and Drew McIntyre at the same time. Sheamus and Gunther have unfinished business, but McIntyre has yet to go against Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship. McIntyre seems to be taking a step back from the universal title picture, so WWE could have him work with Gunther.
Regardless, WWE seems to be investing in Gunther to make him a threat to the company. While he didn’t win, it’s possible the company could have big plans for the Intercontinental Champion this year.
Former WWE Champions Sheamus and Drew McIntyre’s on-screen reunion has been greeted by respectable fan fare and a rather unfortunate choice of team name.
In a nod to Sheamus’ ‘Banger after banger after banger’ meme, his newly reformed team with Drew McIntyre was initially named The Banger Bros. The real-life pals were previously portrayed as allies back in 2020. At the time, Drew McIntyre was riding high as the lead babyface on RAW.
The usually heelish Sheamus enjoyed a quasi-face turn as the then-WWE Champion’s main ally. ‘The Celtic Warrior’s subsequent betrayal of McIntyre in early 2021 was poorly received by fans, with many feeling it had come too soon and ruined the angle.
Sheamus and the rest of his Brawling Brutes team turned babyface following notable fan support during his acclaimed feud with Intercontinental Champion Gunther last year.
Ahead of Survivor Series, he was reunited with McIntyre to feud with The Bloodline heading into Survivor Series. The pair unsuccessfully challenged The Usos for the WWE Undisputed Tag Team Championships earlier this month. While the team garnered support from audiences, their-ill-fated team name recently caused some trouble.
WWE Drops Banger Bros. Due To XXX Connotations
It turns out there’s a pornographic website with an eerily similar name to Sheamus and Drew McIntyre’s team moniker. As a PG company, the prospect of a WWE act potentially leading to Google searches turning up something adults-only would be disastrous.
With this in mind, WWE have quickly vetoed the Banger Bros. moving forward. A similar incident occurred back in the summer of 2015. Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch were called up from NXT to form a faction with Paige dubbed The Submission Sorority. The name turned out to also belong to a pornographic, leading to a similar slew of search engine mishaps for those who wanted to look the team up.
The Submission Sorority were subsequently renamed Team PCB to sidestep any further confusion.
For now, the new moniker for the team remains unconfirmed. Both Sheamus and Drew McIntyre have joked about the name on social media in recent days.
The venue, Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, set to hold Friday’s (January 20) WWE SmackDown event, had to be evacuated on Thursday night (January 19).
This is according to the Detroit News, which noted the Little Caesars Arena was evacuated after an ammonia leak in the building. It happened around 3:15 pm in the arena’s basement.
Detroit Fire Department chief of community relations and public information officer James Harris stated that two men near the leak suffered chemical burns. They were transported to Detroit Receiving Hospital with minor injuries.
Statement
Firefighters, medics, and a hazmat specialist responded at the time. Harris shared the following statement to the press:
“The leak was contained by us. Little Caesars Arena did their due diligence. They went into action, and the situation will be mitigated shortly.”
Other details, including the cause of the leak, were shared. WWE is expected to move forward with SmackDown. They’ve previously announced two things for the show: Here’s the announced lineup for the episode:
– Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens meet for a contract signing
– Drew McIntyre & Sheamus vs Viking Raiders – SmackDown Tag Team Title Tournament First-Round
Posted January 20th, 2023 in WWE, News. Tagged: Sheamus.
Drew McIntyre and Sheamus were unsuccessful in their bid to become Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions, and that was just the start of a bad night.
In the main event, McIntyre and Sheamus faced The Usos for the gold but came up short against the longest-reigning WWE Tag Team Champions.
This match had originally been scheduled for weeks in advance but didn’t take place when McIntyre was medically disqualified.
After SmackDown
Following this setback, McIntyre and Sheamus (now going by the unfortunate moniker the Banger Bros.) were trying to recover in the ring.
After SmackDown went off the air, the pair of former WWE Champions were attacked by the Viking Raiders.
Erik and Ivar laid out both men with Ragnaroks (their name for the double powerbomb) and after exiting the ring, had a moment with Valhalla (Sarah Logan.)
With this attack, it appears that the Banger Bros. will be sticking together for the time being.
What Else Happened?
This week’s SmackDown was the first of the new year, and WWE looked to kick off the blue brand’s 2023 with a bang.
SmackDown also saw Top Dolla and Hit Row turn heel, attacking Ricochet after the One and Only’s Royal Rumble qualifier victory over Dolla.
The Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match for the Rumble was confirmed as Roman Reigns will defend against Kevin Owens.
New WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair kicked off her latest reign with a successful title defense against Sonya Deville.
WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER has dominated since winning the title, but 2023 is shaping up to be one very difficult year.
After debuting on the main roster in April, GUNTHER captured the Intercontinental title in June of this year, dethroning Ricochet.
Since then, GUNTHER has retained against Ricochet, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Rey Mysterio, and had an acclaimed match with Sheamus at WWE Clash at the Castle.
Sheamus
Sheamus Vs. GUNTHER earned five stars from Dave Meltzer, but their Welsh war saw the leader of Imperium keep the gold.
On Twitter, Sheamus responded to a clip of the Clash at the Castle match, claiming that he will become Intercontinental Champion in 2023.
Sheamus is a former WWE, World Heavyweight, U.S., Raw, SmackDown, and WWE Tag Champion, but needs the Intercontinental Gold to complete both the Triple Crown and the Grand Slam.
Drew McIntyre
Sheamus is fixated on dethroning GUNTHER, but Drew McIntyre also has his sights on the Austrian and his title.
During this week’s ‘Absolute Best of 2022’ edition of Monday Night Raw, McIntyre declared his interest in the gold.
“I’ve got my eyes on GUNTHER with the Intercontinental Championship. I see the chatter on social media, I see what happened with himself and Sheamus, I saw the battles. I love competition, I’m a former Intercontinental Champion and I would love to tangle with that man.”
Drew McIntyre.
McIntyre’s one and only Intercontinental title reign saw him dethrone John Morrison at WWE: TLC in December 2009 and would hold the title for 161 days before losing to Kofi Kingston.
It has been reported that GUNTHER Vs. Brock Lesnar is also in the works for WrestleMania 39.
A huge match has been announced to kick off tonight’s edition of WWE SmackDown.
Sheamus will battle Sami Zayn to begin tonight’s show in a few hours at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. It is the first episode SmackDown following WWE Survivor Series WarGame this past Saturday night.
8 Best Moments from WWE Survivor Series WarGames
WWE uploaded a video of Cathy Kelley making the announcement that the Honorary Uce versus the Celtic Warrior will begin tonight’s show. Sheamus took to Twitter and promised another banger for the WWE Universe.
The Bloodline battled Sheamus, Butch, Ridge Holland, Drew McIntyre in the Men’s WarGames match in the main event of WWE Survivor Series WarGames.
Sheamus didn’t play much of a factor in the match, despite The Bloodline’s brutal attack on him on the October 21st edition of SmackDown. The Celtic Warrior may be able to get some revenge tonight against Sami.
Sami Zayn proved his worth to The Bloodline at Survivor Series WarGames. Jey Uso eavesdropped on a conversation between Sami and Kevin Owens on last week’s SmackDown. KO suggested that Sami turn his back on The Bloodline before they betray him. Jey asked Sami if he had spoken to anyone and the Honorary Uce lied to his face.
At Survivor Series WarGames, Roman confronted Sami about the lie and Zayn claimed that he was just trying to protect Jey because The Usos had a big match last week on the blue brand. Sami proved he had The Bloodline’s back by hitting Kevin Owens with a low blow, a Helluva Kick, and then stepping aside so Jey Uso could have the moment. Jey hit KO with a Frog Splash for the pinfall victory. Sami shared a hug with Jey and the Tribal Chief after the match and it appears that The Bloodline is as strong as ever.
Sheamus is set to battle in a WarGames match this Saturday at WWE Survivor Series.
The Celtic Warrior will team up with Budge, Ridge Holland, Drew McIntyre, and Kevin Owens to battle The Bloodline in the men’s WarGames match this Saturday at the TD Garden in Boston, MA.
The Bloodline brutally attacked Sheamus on a recent edition of SmackDown and sent him to a local medical facility. Sheamus returned with revenge on his mind heading into the WarGames match at the premium live event. Sami Zayn has also already guaranteed a victory for The Bloodline.
Sheamus on Treating Every Match Like it is WrestleMania
Sheamus has had an amazing year in WWE so far. He came up short in his battle against Gunther at Clash at the Castle, but received a standing ovation from the fans in Cardiff.
Speaking with Shak Wrestling, the 44-year-old noted that he thought his career was over recently, so he doesn’t take any opportunity to get inside the ring for granted.
I knew I had more to prove, and I came back and [thought] what have I got to lose? I thought my career was gonna be over and I got a second chance.
Every time I get in that ring, it’s a blessing. It’s an opportunity to show everybody what I can do because that literally could be my last time in the ring.
I don’t wanna go out that way, I don’t wanna go out in a way where it’s something lackluster. So my mentality is to treat every match as possible, given the time and given the segment and given where it is, but try and make every match you do like a WrestleMania moment or a WrestleMania match.
I can’t go out there and half-ass anything. It’s just not in my DNA. I wanna go out there and put on banger after banger after banger. I wanna raise everybody.
WWE’s Butch, fka as Pete Dunne in NXT, recently joined Ryan Satin on the Out of Character podcast. He discussed numerous topics, including Triple H as a boss in WWE and how Sheamus is having the best run of his career.
Butch and Ridge Holland are scheduled to battle The Usos this Saturday at WWE Crown Jewel for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships. The Bloodline brutally attacked Sheamus on a recent episode of SmackDown and the challengers will look for revenge at WWE Crown Jewel.
During the conversation, Satin asked if Butch had a good relationship with WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H and the the 28-year-old said that their relationship was great.
It is great. He is a great boss to work for. There are no bad things to say at all. I loved the time under him in NXT and NXT UK was a blast. He has always been great with me and super approachable.
To be honest, I was just really happy to see him back in any capacity. Obviously, when he came back from his troubles, it was just great to have him around and to see him in some capacity and see him back to work.
Now for him to be heading creative and all that kind of stuff, it is even better because he is there every single week fully involved. He’s so approachable, I could go to him with any small thing. To be honest, a lot of the time I just leave him to it and I have full trust in him.
Sheamus Having the Best Run of His Career
Sheamus is the leader of The Brawling Brutes and Butch said that the 44-year-old is having the best run of his career.
The great thing about Sheamus is how hungry he still is. He has been with WWE probably as long as I have been wrestling, 14-15 years, whatever it is. But he is as hungry as day 1 and he actually has said quite a few times that this is his favorite and best run of his career.
Because this connection that he’s got with the crowd now is so organic and real. From my perspective, a lot of this is built on the effort he has put in during those matches. And I think that is more rewarding than any other run up until this point.
Butch noted that there is a “visceral” reaction from the crowd toward Sheamus and he can see how proud The Celtic Warrior is of that. The 28-year-old added that Sheamus still isn’t satisfied.
There is like a visceral reaction when he comes out and you can see how proud he is of that. But he is not satisfied with it, he wants to keep pushing forward.
And not just to elevate us (The Brawling Brutes) but to have the best run of his career.
Even though he’s been there that long and that is the most impressive thing about Sheamus I think.
If you use any quotes from this article, please credit the Out of Character podcast with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.
It appears that it hasn’t been that bad of a week for Sheamus after all.
The 44-year-old reportedly was married this past weekend and the attack from The Bloodline was done as a way to write The Celtic Warrior off of television for the time being.
Drew McIntyre is reportedly not going to be on tonight’s edition of SmackDown because he was the best man at Sheamus’ wedding. Sheamus’ wife, Isabella Revilla announced their engagement last year.
Former WWE Superstar Lana (CJ Perry) and Miro (FKA Rusev in WWE) were in attendance for the ceremony. Miro can be seen as a groomsman in the photo below.
Sheamus recently was involved in a bitter rivalry with Gunther over the Intercontinental Championship. The two battled at Clash at the Castle, WWE’s first UK Stadium show in over thirty years. The Celtic Warrior and The Ring General provided the 60,000+ fans in Cardiff with an instant classic but Sheamus ultimately came up short.
The Celtic Warrior received a standing ovation after the match and then another opportunity on a recent episode of SmackDown. Gunther retained by hitting Sheamus over the head with a shillelagh. Time will tell if Sheamus challenges Gunther again down the line or now has his sights set on getting revenge on The Bloodline.
Sheamus battled Solo Sikoa tonight to begin WWE SmackDown. The Bloodline (besides Roman Reigns) and The Brawling Brutes (Ridge Holland and Butch) were ringside for the match.
The Celtic Warrior was in control of the match when Honorary Uce Sami Zayn hopped on the ring apron for a distraction. Sikoa capitalized and connected with the Spinning Solo Uranage for the pinfall victory.
After the match, The Bloodline continued the attack but one member may have taken things too far. Jey Uso grabbed a steel chair and bashed Sheamus’ arm several times against the steel steps.
Jey went on to attack Logan Paul against The Tribal Chief’s orders later on the show. Sami once again tried to stop him but it was too late. Logan Paul leveled Jey with one punch to send a message to Roman Reigns ahead of Crown Jewel.
After the attack by The Bloodline, Sheamus and The Brawling Brutes were interviewed backstage in a WWE Digital Exclusive. Sheamus was taken to a local medical facility, AKA a hospital, and The Brawling Brutes stopped for a brief interview.
Butch delivered a warning to The Bloodline and stated that “The Bloodline picked on the wrong bunch of lads”. Ridge Holland that this isn’t over and The Brawling Brutes walked away.
BREAKING: Due to the attack earlier tonight by #TheBloodline, @WWESheamus has a non-displaced fracture near his elbow and is still under observation. #SmackDown
The rivalry between The Bloodline and The Brawling Brutes is far from over. It was announced that Solo Sikoa and Sami Zayn will battle Butch and Ridge Holland next week on WWE SmackDown. Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will also return next week on the blue brand.
Sheamus recently had his passion for professional wrestling rejuvenated.
“The Celtic Warrior” was recently interviewed on “The Ringer Wrestling Show,” where he discussed his current involvement with The Brawling Brutes, Ridge Holland and Butch. Sheamus admits that working with Holland and Butch have brought back his passion for professional wrestling to its highest point.
“[We] are so passionate about what we do. I’ve been here over 13 and a half years on the main roster, and these two boys… really brought my passion back to a level 10. … There’s no level of authority here.
“We’re just three boys, three mates, who will bleed and die for each other out there… There is no ego. I’ve never had that reaction before in my career. The last [eight months] with these guys has been incredible, and it’s been organic.”
Sheamus first joined WWE back in 2006. He broke out into the World Title picture in 2009 when he defeated John Cena for his first WWE Championship.
Over the years, Sheamus would become one of WWE’s top stars, winning several notable accolades.
He is a four-time World Champion, a three-time United States Champion, and a five-time Tag Team Champion with Cesaro. Sheamus has also won the Money In The Bank, King Of The Ring, and Royal Rumble.
Sheamus sent a message to Intercontinental Champion Gunther following WWE Extreme Rules.
The Brawling Brutes battled Imperium in a Donnybrook match to start off Extreme Rules. Sheamus, Butch, and Ridge Holland isolated Gunther in the ring at one point during the match. Sheamus hit the 10 Beats of Bodhran as Butch & Ridge stomped the champion down to the mat.
The Celtic Warrior picked up the win for his team by hitting the Brogue Kick on Giovanni Vince for the pinfall victory.
After WWE Extreme Rules went off the air, The Celtic Warrior took to Twitter to take a shot at the champion. Gunther defended his Intercontinental Championship against Sheamus at Clash at the Castle in an instant classic.
They met again on this past Friday’s episode of SmackDown in the main event. Sheamus appeared to have the match won after applying the Cloverleaf and Gunther pounded on the mat. Referee Jessika Carr claimed that Gunther didn’t tap out and the match continued. Gunther then bashed Sheamus over the head with a shillelagh to retain the title.
Sheamus claimed that Gunther is a cheat and tapped out on SmackDown. The Celtic Warrior also boasted about The Brawling Brutes beating down the champion tonight at Extreme Rules.
Let it be known that 24 hours in hell showed ‘The Ring General’ to be nothing more than a dishonorable defeated cheat.. submitted then torn apart by 3 hungry dogs. Oh, and he tapped. What’s mine is mine. #ICTitle
Let it be known that 24 hours in hell showed ‘The Ring General’ to be nothing more than a dishonourable defeated cheat.. submitted then torn apart by 3 hungry dogs. Oh, and he tapped. What’s mine is mine. #ICTitlepic.twitter.com/fIEVFZW0hJ
Sheamus has never won the Intercontinental Championship in his incredible WWE career. Time will tell if he will be able to take it from the hands of The Ring General.
Gunther will be defending the Intercontinental Championship against Sheamus this week on the season premiere of SmackDown.
The Ring General and The Celtic Warrior put on an instant classic at Clash at the Castle. In the end, it was Gunther who emerged victorious but the crowd in Cardiff gave Sheamus a standing ovation after the match.
The Celtic Warrior was without his stablemates this past Friday on SmackDown. Butch and Ridge Holland of The Brawling Brutes were stuck in Florida due to the hurricane. Sheamus tried to get in a few shots with his shillelagh but the numbers game caught up to him. Imperium beat The Celtic Warrior down and left him laying in the ring. Sheamus will now enter his Intercontinental Championship match on SmackDown at a distinct disadvantage.
Here are three reasons Sheamus deserves to win the Intercontinental Championship on the season premiere of WWE SmackDown:
The Storyline
The main reason Sheamus should become the Intercontinental Champion is because of his storyline with Gunther. The Ring General has already proven he can defeat Sheamus, but has he proven he can bounce back from a loss?
Gunther has yet to lose a singles match on the main roster and losing a match to a veteran like Sheamus does not equate to getting “buried”. It presents an opportunity to show the WWE Universe just how vicious Gunther can be in his pursuit to get his title back.
Gunther has lost two singles matches in NXT during his WWE career. He lost the NXT UK Championship to Ilja Dragunov in an incredible match at TakeOver 36 and to NXT Champion Bron Breakker in April. Gunther made his main roster debut a few days later on SmackDown and defeated Joe Alonzo in a squash match.
A loss for Gunther would give WWE a reason to have them fight again at an upcoming Premium Live Event. There likely won’t be too many fans complaining about these two facing off again if their match on SmackDown delivers as expected.
In January of 2023 @Gunther_AUT will have been with @WWE for 4 years.
And in that long period of his run he has only suffered TWO clean singles losses.
The Brawling Brutes seemed like they were an act that was destined to fail. They came off as a Vince McMahon creation that maybe would have connected with fans in the 1950s as they would have been wearing similar attire in the audience. Many fans were disappointed to see Pete Dunne portray “Butch”, a scrappy underdog comedy character, instead of The Bruiserweight the WWE Universe had grown to love in NXT.
After Triple H took over creative responsibility for the company, The Brawling Brutes have been presented as a group that fans should take seriously. They battled The Usos for the Undisputed Tag Team Championships in a great match a couple of weeks ago on SmackDown.
Butch and Ridge Holland were moments away from becoming champions before Imperium interfered. The Usos escaped with the titles but the crowd was heavily behind The Brawling Brutes.
The crowd in the DCU Center in Worcester this Friday will likely be cheering for Sheamus as well. There is currently a heel faction dominating the top of the promotion with The Bloodline, why not have a babyface group run the midcard?
Sheamus has called this the greatest moment of his wrestling career.
Sheamus spoke with Ariel Helwani of BT Sport ahead of his Intercontinental Championship match against Gunther at Clash at the Castle. Ariel asked why the title was so important Sheamus gave two reasons.
“The first reason is it’s the one championship that I need to complete my collection and become WWE’s first-ever Ultimate Grand Slam Champion. And number two, it’s because to me it is the first title I watched when I started watching WWE as a kid.
It was the title that was always on television. It was the title I saw every single week and it was the working man’s title. That was a great platform for a lot of talents who started out like you know, Macho Man, Mr. Perfect, Bret Hart, Shawn (Michaels), all those guys.
Sheamus joined the main roster in 2009 and has had an incredible 12-year career in WWE thus far. The 44-year-old is a four-time World Champion in the company and a three-time United States Champion. He captured the RAW Tag Team Championships four times as well with former WWE star Cesaro, now known as Claudio Castagnoli in All Elite Wrestling.
The Celtic Warrior won the King of the Ring in 2010, the Royal Rumble in 2012, and the men’s Money in the Bank Ladder match in 2015. The only thing missing from his resume in WWE is the Intercontinental Championship and it would be great to see that rectified against Gunther on SmackDown.
Would you like to see Sheamus win the Intercontinental Championship or would you rather see Gunther continue his dominance this week on WWE SmackDown? Let us know in the comments section below.
