AEW International Champion Konosuke Takeshita and Taya Valkyrie are set to make their debut in CMLL as they have been announced for future CMLL events at Arena Mexico.
CMLL recently dropped video clip on social media on Wednesday night and announced that Konosuke Takeshita is scheduled for future appearance at an Arena Mexico show. CMLL’s weekly show takes place every Friday night in the iconic arena. However, the promotion didn’t reveal any dates for the Japanese star’s debut.
??
Próximamente… El súper estrella de AEW, NJPW y DDT, Konosuke Takeshita llegará a la Arena México…. pic.twitter.com/W2WQFV9AjQ
On the other hand, Taya Valkyrie will also be making an appearance for CMLL for the first time soon. In another video clip on social media, Taya Valkyrie, who is a former AAA regular, announced that she will make her CMLL debut on the Friday, March 7th show. She will be going up against Lady Frost in a World Women’s Tag Team title qualifying match.
Valkyrie is replacing Red Velvet in the match after the latter announced that she was unable to compete due to injury.
#CMLLInforma || ¡La Wera Loca en el CMLL! Taya Valkyrie será quien sustituya a la lesionada Red Velvet para hacer pareja con Lady Frost el próximo Viernes 7 de Marzo en la Arena México.
‘The Alpha’ will be putting his AEW International Championship on the line against Orange Cassidy on February 26 edition of AEW Dynamite. The winner of that match will defend the title against Kenny Omega at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view on March 9th.
The AEW International title picture has gotten interesting. On this week’s AEW Dynamite, Orange Cassidy defeated The Undisputed Era’s Roderick Strong in an International Championship Series Match to earn a shot at Konosuke Takeshita’s title next week. The series was announced over the weekend as Kenny Omega challenged Takeshita to a match at AEW Revolution. Next week’s outcome of the title match will determine which superstar Omega is going to face.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and AEW is introducing a new series on their YouTube channel with the theme of romance and comedy, featuring Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie.
Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie’s relationship blossomed in the world of pro wrestling and they are among several other couples whose love stories bloomed in the industry. The couple tied the knot in June 2018 after being in a relationship for two years. The duo has performed in several promotions and currently performing in AEW.
Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie to star in new AEW series
The official AEW Twitter/X account made the announcement of the brand new series for their YouTube channel which will star real-life wrestling couple and AEW stars, Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie. A short teaser has already dropped on the platform which gives a sneak peek for the fans.
In addition to this, the show has been billed as the debut of first wrestling romantic comedy on Valentine’s Day with new episodes releasing every week. The show will premiere on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
“Coming to #AEW’s YouTube channel on Valentine’s Day, it’s Johnny Loves Taya!
Watch the debut of wrestling’s first romantic comedy on Wednesday, February 14th, with new episodes every week
@TheRealMorrison
@TheTayaValkyrie.”
Coming to #AEW's YouTube channel on Valentine's Day, it's Johnny Loves Taya! Watch the debut of wrestling's first romantic comedy on Wednesday, February 14th, with new episodes every week 💕@TheRealMorrison | @TheTayaValkyriepic.twitter.com/KbAT3nYOwa
Recently, Johnny TV accompanied her wife Taya Valkyrie, who squared off against Deonna Purrazzo on Dynamite. Valkyrie endured a defeat against Purrazzo, who has moved one step closer to getting a shot at the AEW Women’s title against former best friend, Toni Storm. In the final moments of the match, Purrazzo executed a double arm lock as Valkyrie submitted.
Jade Cargill’s reign as AEW TBS Champion could be in grave jeopardy if she steps into the ring with one of women’s wrestling’s most decorated champions.
This week, AEW Dynamite will make its debut in Winnipeg, Canada, and Tony Khan wants to make a great first impression in the city.
It has been announced that Cargill will put her title and her undefeated streak on the line against a Canadian wrestler.
Cargill Vs. Taya?
One name being thrown around as a possible contender for Cargill is Taya Valkyrie, who recently finished up her time with Impact Wrestling.
Many have seen this as a sign that the former Franky Monet is AEW-bound, and this isn’t the only clue.
During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided another clue that Valkyrie may be the Canadian set to face Cargill.
“She [Valkyrie] was scheduled to be on a World Series Wrestling tour of Australia that’s taking place right now, and she’s not there. That leads me to believe… I actually thought that she’s the mystery Canadian that Jade Cargill is going to wrestle on Wednesday, and the fact that she has a tour scheduled, and she’s not there, she did give notice.
“She’s done with Impact, and she’s leaving MLW, and she isn’t on this tour. We know she’s either going to WWE or AEW, but the point is, they talked about a mystery Canadian, and she’s Canadian and it’s starting to add up that it could be. So, unless she’s debuting on Raw, SmackDown, or NXT this Tuesday, she didn’t have to leave that tour.”
Dave Meltzer.
Valkyrie is no stranger to championship matches, being a former Reina de Reinas Champion, Knockouts Tag Champion, and the longest-reigning Impact Knockouts World Champion.
AEW is Winnipeg
Whether Valkyrie is Cargill’s mystery opponent or not, this week’s Dynamite debut in Winnipeg will be one to remember.
The stacked card includes new AEW Trios Champions the House of Black defending their gold against The Elite and Jericho Appreciation Society.
The Blackpool Combat Club will face the Dark Order (including the returning Stu Grayson.)
AEW All-Atlantic Champion Orange Cassidy will take on Jeff Jarrett to determine the first AEW International Champion.
When you look at all the social media collages from pro wrestling companies celebrating “International Women’s Day,” there was one constant among many of them. It was Taya Valkyrie. Rather than take her ball and go home after her WWE release more than a year ago, she used the setback to fuel her fire, even more, to show the world what she could do. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes, Valkyrie was reborn.
She became the Reina de Reinas Champion once again in AAA. She returned to Impact and won the Knockouts Tag Team titles along with her Death Dollz sisters Rosemary and Jessicka. The hard-working veteran continued to make history as the first-ever MLW World’s Featherweight Champion.
“I keep feeling like last year happened in a flash so to speak,” Valkyrie reflected. “I’m very proud of myself. I’m not going to apologize for that. I worked my butt off and got it done and proved myself. It has been exciting. I’m excited about what’s in the future as well.”
Taya Valkyrie’s Next Move
Her future has been a hot topic lately if you look at the pro wrestling sites. And given all Valkyrie has accomplished in such a short time, it’s no surprise she is wanted by numerous companies.
“Everyone wants to speculate and talk and gossip. I just want everybody to enjoy what I’m doing. That’s it,” she said. “No matter where I am or what I’m doing, I’m just trying to put out the best version of myself and performance, the best moments and best experience for the fans and the viewers. That’s what I want to do in the next year. Do I know where I’m going? No. Are people gossiping about it? Of course. That’s the nature of the beast. Keep them talking. I see no problem with that. Just wait. Everything will work out.”
Speaking of talk, many fans have fantasy-booked Valkyrie to be the mystery opponent for AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill. The undefeated title holder issued a challenge to the best Canada has to offer. “La Wera Loca” certainly would fit the bill.
“Canada is notorious for having amazing pro wrestlers. Let’s be real here,” she responded when asked about the challenge. “There have been so many people from Canada, so, of course, she is going to try to call out someone from Canada. Guess what? We are some of the best in the world. All the best of luck to her because we are tough.”
Her Time in MLW, Working Alongside Husband John Hennigan
One thing we do know is Valkyrie is set to defend the MLW gold against the newly signed Delmi Exo on April 6 at War Chamber. She is looking forward to this first-time matchup against someone known in the tag ranks as part of the Sea Stars.
“It’s very exciting because I’m the first women’s champion in MLW history,” she said. …I don’t think I’ve ever faced it before…We’ll see what happens. I clearly have proven myself at MLW at building this division on my back and giving more opportunities for women to be seen. It’s exciting to be at the forefront of that.”
Another fun aspect of being part of MLW is being able to work with her tag partner in life, husband John Hennigan. It has been a sort of Lucha Underground reunion of sorts with many alums finding their way to the company, which has been enjoying its best exposure with Underground airing on Reelz.
“[John and I] hadn’t tagged together or been in a faction together since the summer of 2019 when John worked for WWE. So much time has gone by. Just being there with Cesar Duran, having Willie Mack there, Matt Striker on commentary, I’m like, ‘Is it 2017?’ It’s really exciting,” Valkyrie said.
“It feels very comfortable and fun. We play so well off each other. Just creating magic again. Lucha Underground was such a wonderful part of my career. I will always speak highly of it. It was really that first big break for a lot of us. When you look back on that show, it was groundbreaking. A lot of people have taken from that show without even acknowledging they have. This was a groundbreaking show with so many new faces, and those faces are everywhere on your television. It has been really fun to get the band back together.”
Impact, NWA & Finding Her Spot in the Business
Valkyrie sees pro wrestling as creating art where there are so many ways to present this art form. In her eyes, everything doesn’t have to be for everyone. She feels creatively fulfilled being able to play in various places. This includes Impact where there is a supernatural tone to her character’s development these days.
“The last few months working with the Death Dollz have been so much fun,” she explained. “I think it is written all over our faces. We’re having the best time learning from one another and working off one another. When we go to signings together, we call it the Death Dollz experience because there is just mayhem all the time.”
Valkyrie has broken through many doors, forbidden or not, during this new era in her career. Add the NWA to the list where she is gunning for the new NWA Women’s Television Championship. During her time in the Billy Corgan-owned promotion, she has developed respect and admiration for Kamille, who has surpassed more than 600 days as Women’s Champion. For Valkyrie, the imposing figure hasn’t even scratched the surface of what she is capable of doing in the business. Adding that, “She is one to watch.”
Other names she passes along are Heather Monroe & Raelyn and the teenage prodigy Billie Starkz. Her advice to them is to work so hard, decision-makers can’t say no.
“I have worked very hard to find my spot in the business,” she said. “Rejected over and over again. I had to really claw and find my way. For me, it’s always cool to meet people in the business that have the same respect for it as I do. I feel they are doing a phenomenal job.”
Wanting to Work with Mercedes Moné
One star the former Franky Monet would also love to tangle with is Mercedes Moné, who recently won the IWGP Women’s championship. Valkyrie has no problem adding another award to her stacked trophy case.
“Mercedes bet on herself. I see a lot of similarities in both of us because that is what I feel I’ve done with myself over and over again. I feel she has such respect for lucha libre. Whenever I see her, we talk about Mexico and lucha libre. So I would love to get in the ring with her and have a shot at that New Japan Women’s Championship. She is at the top of the list for a lot of people right now She is on top of my list. So we’ll see.”
Valkyrie has the same answer about if she wants to settle down with one company. She goes back and forth on the idea.
“I’ve been having so much fun working everywhere,” she added. “It would be nice to be with one company. But I have never chosen the easy road. And I don’t know if I’m going to start now. We’ll see what happens.”
MLW Underground airs at 10 p.m. ET Tuesdays on Reelz. MLW Fusion airs at 8 p.m. ET Thursdays on Pro Wrestling TV
A new report from PWInsider claims that a former Impact Knockouts Champion has wrapped up with the company and is now a free agent.
Spoiler on Former Knockouts Champion
The report shared that former Impact Knockouts Champion Taya Valkyrie has left Impact Wrestling and will be with a new promotion.
“Taya Valkyrie has finished up with Impact Wrestling as of their TV tapings in Las Vegas. As we noted at the time, Taya was not signed to Impact, and the word is that she is believed to be signing elsewhere,” said the report.
On the March 8 episode of AEW Dynamite, TBS Champion Jade Cargill issued an open challenge to a Canadian opponent for next week’s episode. It’s worth acknowledging that Valkyrie is Canadian, which makes sense for her to accept the challenge. AEW hasn’t revealed if she is signed with the company. However, based on her history with WWE, AEW seems to be where she could sign, especially if it happens soon.
Where do you think Valkyrie will sign, and are you excited about her becoming a free agent?
Wrestling Revolver held its live event, Drip, on March 4 at the Horizon Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa.
The event had a mix of talent from Impact Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and other independent promotions. The card saw Revolver World Champion Steve Maclin defending his title against Rich Swann in an Iowa Street Fight. Both wrestlers work for Impact Wrestling but can compete for independent promotions. Another match on the card had The Bullet Club’s Chris Bey and Ace Austin defending their Revolver World Tag Team Championships against The Rascalz’s Trey Miguel and Zachary Wentz and The Second Gear Crew’s Matthew Justice and Mance Warner.
The event went live on FITE for their subscription service, FITE+, for free. To subscribe, fans wanting to watch the card and other Wrestling Revolver events must pay 7.99.
Wrestling Revolver: Drip Results
(C) Steve Maclin def. Rich Swann in an Iowa Street Fight Match for the Revolver World Championship
(C) Rocky Romero def. Jake Crist vs. Lince Dorado in a CMLL World Historic Welterweight Championship Match
1 Called Manders def. Crash Jaxon in a Hoss Match
(C) Alex Shelley def. Matthew Palmer in a Revolver Remix Championship Match
The UNIT (JT Dunn & Infrared w/ Phil Stamper) def. The Death Dollz (Rosemary, Taya Valkyrie, & JesSICKa) in a No DQ Trios Match
Fulton with Matthew Rehwoldt def. Dan the Dad
Johnny Revolver def. Ninja Mack
Kushida def. Jonathan Gresham
The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz) def. The Second Gear Crew (Matthew Justice & Mance Warner) & (C) The Bullet Club (Chris Bey & Ace Austin) in a Revolver World Tag Team Championship Match
Since its inception in 2019, the AEW women’s division has steadily grown in size and strength.
Dr. Britt Baker emerged as an early pillar, and arguable face, of the division, standing at the forefront for the majority of her tenure. The integration of a secondary title — the TBS Championship — then opened a window of opportunity for more talent to be regularly showcased on company programming. With another hour of programming added to their schedule on Rampage as well, All Elite Wrestling has allowed a vast expansion of their women’s roster.
One of those newer additions include former WWE Divas Champion Saraya. At Full Gear in November, she returned to in-ring action for the first time in nearly five years, defeating Britt Baker. On January 11, she geared up for her second match back, teaming with Toni Storm in a losing effort against Baker and AEW Women’s Champion Jamie Hayter. While Saraya’s own appearances in AEW have garnered great buzz, “The Glampire” wants to see another talent get time in the spotlight.
“I wanna see @thetayavalkyrie in @aew” she tweeted on Sunday.
Taya Valkyrie, of course, has made successful rounds on the professional wrestling circuit, especially in the past year. In 2022, Valkyrie held championships in major promotions like Impact, MLW, and AAA.
Valkyrie quickly responded to Saraya’s message, writing “Ilysm”.
Though Valkyrie’s venture into AEW is unconfirmed at this time, she previously stated she was open to competing there. Her husband, known as John Morrison in WWE, made his AEW debut last year, facing Samoa Joe in the opening round of the men’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. He went on to accumulate two more appearances, once on Dark, and a match against Miro on Dynamite in June.
Taya Valkyrie of IMPACT Wrestling recently spoke with Steve Fall of NBC Sports Boston about ideas she pitched to WWE that never ended up happening.
Taya’s WWE Tenure
On February 14, 2021, it was reported that Taya signed a contract with WWE. On February 24, Valkyrie officially began working at the WWE Performance Center.
At NXT TakeOver: Stand & Deliver 2021, a vignette aired promoting Taya’s arrival to the brand with her new ring name revealed to be Franky Monet. On the May 25 episode of NXT, she made her in-ring debut by defeating Cora Jade. She would eventually join the Robert Stone Brand. On the September 28 episode of NXT 2.0, Raquel Gonzalez would defeat Franky Monet to retain the title.
On November 4, Franky Monet was released from her WWE contract as part of the seventh round of layoffs, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that involved administrative staff, plant, and wrestlers.
The current MLW World Women’s Featherweight Championship said:
“I feel like every kind of creative meeting, everyone like listens to you and stuff. If it comes to fruition is a whole other thing. But that’s just kind of the general. No one was ever like, ‘Oh my god, that idea’s stupid, or anything like that.’ It was never like that. It was always quite positive. But I mean, there’s just so many moving parts and so many people that it could be the creative team thinks, ‘Oh, that’s a really cool idea. But let’s put a twist on it.’ Or, you know, the top doesn’t like it at all, and then it never ends up even being spoken of again, you know. It just- it’s there’s so many moving parts in WWE. So it’s very, sometimes it’s very difficult to get your idea to even you know, get a proper look at.”
Taya’s WWE Pitch That Wasn’t Carried Out
Taya then went on to share one of the ideas that she pitched at the end of her WWE tenure.
The AAA Reinas de Reinas champion said, “Well, towards the end, I was really wanting Taya, ugh, Taya- Frankie to be more serious. And I was really pushing to like, kind of have her be a little bit darker even staying as a heel. But I was, you know, pitching different colors for outfits and different vibes and kind of like kind of someone who loses themselves in the, you know, wanting to be champion or loses themselves as they’re trying to, you know, reach a level of perfection, kind of like the ballerina in Black Swan the movie. So, I was trying to kind of bring this kind of crazy, unhinged version of her through but unfortunately, that didn’t end up happening, but it is what it.”
Taya Explains The Origin Of The Franky Monet Name
Taya clarified that she was the one who picked the heavily criticized name Franky Monet.
The current MLW World Women’s Featherweight Championship and AAA Reinas de Reinas champion said, “Ah, contrary to popular belief, it was actually me that picked that name. And everybody seems to have a massive problem with it. And I’m just like, but I liked it.”
She continued by talking about the process of picking a name in WWE. She explained the lengthy process that she went through to end up with the name Franky Monet.
“Nobody- we- like it’s a long process. They give you lists of ideas, and they want to talk to you about your ideas and stuff. So, there’s a lot of names thrown around. But ultimately, that was the one that won. I like to sound different, be different. I never want to be put in a box or told to you know, don’t want to be called, you know, something that you would expect. So, I definitely went there and yeah, Franky was born.”
Taya’s Upcoming Events
Taya Valkyrie is currently performing in IMPACT Wrestling, AAA, Major League Wrestling, the National Wrestling Alliance, and many others.
On the IMPACT Emergence Countdown show, Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary put their titles on the line against VXT (Deonna Purrazzo & Chelsea Green) in a losing effort.
Taya Valkyrie is set to compete against Kamille at NWA 74 on August 27 for the Women’s World Championship.
AAA also recently announced that Taya Valkyrie vs. Thunder Rosa will be taking place at Triplemania XXX Chapter 3 in Mexico City on October 15.
On the IMPACT Emergence Countdown show, Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary put their titles on the line against VXT (Deonna Purrazzo & Chelsea Green) in a losing effort.
On the July 7 episode of Impact, Mia Yim defeated Deonna Purrazzo to become the number one contender for the Impact Knockouts World Championship. This led to Yim earning a title match against champion Jordynne Grace at Emergence.
However, Purrazzo and Chelsea Green, collectively known as VXT, defeated Grace and Yim two weeks later. This earned them a match for the Impact Knockouts World Tag Team Championship against champions Rosemary and Taya Valkyrie at the event.
Taya Isn’t Afraid of Deonna & Chelsea
Before the event, the current AAA Reinas de Reinas Champion had the following to say about her competitors:
“We are four absolute killers in the ring. And we all know each other extremely well, for years. And I just know that we’re going to let it all out there like Rosemary and I are Knockouts Tag Champions. We will defend these championships with our lives send people the undead realm. I don’t care like we are going to defend these championships and still retain the knockouts World Tag Team Champions championships on Emergence.
I don’t care what Deonna and Chelsea say or if they’re you know, VXT or V(e)XT whatever, you know. We have been doing and grinding as friends, as foes as you know as tag partners for a while and I hope they they bring their 110% on that day.”
AAA announced a unique match for the Ring Rock StAAArs event on September 10 as married couple John Morrison and Taya Valkyrie are slated to wrestle each other.
Valkyrie will team up with Impact star Laredo Kid to take on her husband under the name Johnny Caballero and Christi Jaynes.
— Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (@luchalibreaaa) July 5, 2022
They have worked for AAA since the start of this year, with the latest show being TripleMania XXX: Tijuana, where Taya called out AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa and Morrison teaming with Matt Hardy to take on Dragon Lee and Dralistico as a replacement for Jeff Hardy, who was pulled due to his recent DUI arrest.
This marked the second time Morrison headlined an AAA event as he had previously headlined AAA Rey de Reyes, unsuccessfully challenging Hijo del Vikingo for AAA Mega Championship.
At the June 26th tapings, Taya sided against Johnny, cornering Arez and AEW star Rey Fenix as they took on Johnny and Absimo Negro Jr. Taya previously scored a win over her husband at the WrestleCon Supershow.
Since hitting the free-agent market after being let go by WWE, Valkyrie has found a lot of success as she is currently the AAA Reina de Reinas Champion, one-half of the Impact Knockouts Tag Team Champions with Rosemary, the inaugural MLW Women’s Featherweight Champion, and the inaugural XPW Women’s Champion.
Former WWE Superstar Taya Valkyrie is open to joining All Elite Wrestling.
Vaklyrie recently wrapped up a short run with WWE, where she portrayed the character Franky Monet in NXT. She was released by WWE back in November already has a number of appearances lined up in the weeks ahead.
During a virtual autograph signing for East Coast Autograph Auctions over the weekend, Valkyrie said “of course” she’s interested in joining AEW’s women’s division.
“Of course, I would go to AEW, she said. “They are doing something different, a lot of my peers and best friends, my brothers Fenix and Pentagon are over there. Why not? We’ll see what happens.”
Taya Valkyrie as Franky Monet in NXT (2021)
Taya Valkyrie’s Future
Taya Vaklyrie Valkyrie extensively in Mexico during the early part of her career. She worked for Impact Wrestling from 2017-2021 before a stint in NXT. She returned to AAA in December.
The sky is the limit for Taya Valkyrie in 2022. She is a veteran performer that would be an asset to any locker room she joined. We could see her back in Impact, or in AEW.
Over the weekend, Valkyrie expressed interest in working with AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker.
The free agency market for women’s wrestling has never been deeper. Aside from the incredible talent on the independent scene, talent released by WWE in 2021 include Valkyrie, Toni Storm, Nixon Newell (Tegan Nox), Athena (Ember Moon), Nia Jax and Mia Yim.
Taya Valkyrie issued a lengthy statement after her WWE release that you can read here:
Taya Valkyrie signed with WWE back in February this year. The promotion officially confirmed her new ring name Franky Mone in April. Though her NXT career didn’t include a lot of highlights.
The now-former WWE star was released from her contract on November 4 alongside people such as Keith Lee, Karrion Kross, and Ember Moon.
WWE also released Valkyrie’s husband, John Morrison a few days later on November 18. Though due to his main roster contract, Morrison will have to wait a couple more months before becoming a free agent.
Taya Valkyrie has already started making appearances for other promotions. She showed up at AAA Triplemanía tonight and issued a challenge to the current AAA Reina de Reinas Champion Deonna Purrazzo.
The former NXT star has been announced for several upcoming indie shows as well. This includes shows of Outlandish Paradise on 15 January, Prestige Wrestling on 20 February, and Nation Extreme Wrestling on 25 February.
There is no word on if any of the big promotions are interested in bringing Valkyrie in but it’s more than likely that she will be signed by a brand sooner rather than later.
Franky Monet, who will very likely be returning to the name Taya Valkyrie shortly, has released a statement on her release from WWE. She offered thanks to Triple H and Shawn Michaels specifically.
“Well that didn’t go as planned! First and foremost I would like to thank WWE for allowing me to live my dream, even if it was cut short. To say I am disappointed would be an understatement, I’m confused, hurt, sad and honestly mad. I came there as one of the top luchadoras of our era and honestly leaving there a little broken,” Monet began her statement.
“I LOVED everyday when I got to go to work, being around the greatest minds in this business, getting to train in the BEST pro wrestling training facility in the world and see my friends everyday. I was completely enveloped in the industry. Thank you to Triple H, Shawn Michaels and the entire PC staff for welcoming me with open arms and allowing me to learn from you.”
The former Taya Valkyrie continued:
“I know who I am, I know what I’ve done and I know I have more to give. This is just another swerve in my journey that I didn’t expect but to be honest, my life has always been filled with those. Im a fighter, im stubborn and I am a very, very good pro wrestler.”
“Thank you to everyone that’s supported me through this chapter and thank you to everyone that will continue to support me into the next one. Time to let la WERA LOCA loose. Let’s make magic.”
Kira Foster, aka Franky Monet, aka Taya Valkyrie, was trained by Lance Storm at the Storm Wrestling Academy in 2010. Although she had discussions with WWE about coming in early in her career, they never materialized. Instead she went to Mexico where she became a big star with AAA as Taya Valkyrie aka Wera Loca. She was part of the Los Perros del Mal stable led by the late Perro Aguayo Jr.
Valkyrie holds the record for the longest-single reign and most combined days spent with AAA’s Reina de Reinas Championship.
In 2016, she would debut in Lucha Underground as part of the World Wide Underground stable. That is where she would meet her now-husband, John Morrison.
In 2017, Valkyrie would debut with Impact Wrestling. She holds the record for the longest single-reign with the Knockouts Championship. In storyline, Valkyrie was arrested for the attempted murder of John E. Bravo which was meant to explain her departure from the company.
Taya Valkyrie is now Franky Monet. She had been wrestling under her previous name for more than a decade. As is often the case, however, she changed it for her debut under the WWE NXT banner.
Monet recently took to Twitter to comment on her name change.
“Hey guys, I LOVE MY NAME…..maybe since I picked it. Go figure!” she Tweeted. “I could be called Sunshine Tuna and I would make it work!!! So take a breath, stop complaining and enjoy this evolution and ride with me. Thanks”
She also explained her reasons for the name.
“Monet for the French artist, Franky because I’ve always loved unisex names and I think it’s super cute, spunky and different,” she Tweeted.
The name “Sunshine Tuna” seemed to gain traction online.
“And for the record, nobody was going to name me Sunshine Tuna, it was just an example,” Monet continued. “The name does not make the wrestler. One that’s powerful and strong helps of course but just know we all think long and hard about these things. I’m me, la WERA LOCA. Always, now, forever.”
Ok wow new pc recruits take note of Sunshine Tuna 😍 first come first served https://t.co/y3ruxecWLM
Hey guys, I LOVE MY NAME…..maybe since I picked it. Go figure! 💁🏼♀️ I could be called Sunshine Tuna and I would make it work!!! So take a breath, stop complaining and enjoy this evolution and ride with me. Thanks 🙏🏻 #FrankyMonet
“For those that have been on this decade long journey with me, you know how badly I have wanted this,” she wrote. “I’ve sacrificed and dedicated my life to this. Moved across continents, learned languages, immersed myself in new styles, cultures and experiences with the over all goal of making it one day to the @wwe. I have worked my butt off and today my dream has come true.
I promise to work harder than I ever have, to show the world who I am as a performer and human being. I love my life and take absolutely nothing for granted. I’m hungrier than I have ever been and now the work begins. Thank you to all those that have supported me, and to those that don’t like me…welp, too bad [shrugs emoji] I know my worth, my talent and I will always strive to be better. Now buckle up because this is going to get interesting. LETS GET TO WORK!!”
She had been under contract with Impact Wrestling from 2017 to the end of 2020 where she was positioned as a top star in the women’s division during her entire run. Taya had the longest single-reign in Impact Knockouts Championship history.
Before she left Impact, she had also been a big star in Mexico with AAA. She worked for Lucha Underground from 2016-18. Valkyrie got her start in the business after being trained by Lance Storm at the Storm Wrestling Academy in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
The NXT Women’s division is about to get a major player. According to a report from PW Insider, Taya Valkyrie has signed with WWE and will be headed to the NXT brand. Taya had been with Impact Wrestling from 2017 to the end of 2020. She was a focal point in the promotion throughout her entire run.
Prior to ending up in Impact Wrestling, Taya Valkyrie was a big star in Mexico with AAA. She is a multi-time Reina de Reinas Champion (a title she still holds) and was part of the Perros del Mal faction. She also performed in Lucha Underground from 2016-18.
Valkyrie trained with Lance Storm at the Storm Wrestling Academy in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She is originally from Victoria, BC, Canada.
Taya had the longest single-reign in Impact Knockouts Championship history during her run with the company. She was voted Knockout of the year in the promotion in 2019. In storyline, her run with the promotion came to an end when she was arrested for the shooting and attempted murder of John E. Bravo.
“Well, I really enjoy both products” Taya Valkyrie began. “Obviously, I’m a wrestling fan, always have been. There’s a lot of people that get into wrestling [that] are wrestling fans, surprise, and honestly, I don’t know what’s gonna happen next for me because as a lot of people don’t realize is that I have been signed for about eight-and-a-half years from AAA into Lucha Underground into IMPACT.”
💋 Happy Valentine’s Day to my best friend, my lover, my biggest supporter, the best doggy daddy and nicest human in the world. I love you @TheRealMorrison ❤️ pic.twitter.com/zcvzMwlaYS
Former IMPACT Wrestling performer Taya Valkyrie recently spoke to the Highsports Wrestling Network. Valkyrie discussed a number of topics during her time on the show, including the two promotions where she is likely to end up: AEW and WWE.
Taya Valkyrie’s husband John Morrison currently works for WWE, so it was believed that she may have left IMPACT to join him in the company. With the comments Taya made during this interview, it appears as though she has a few performers in both companies that she wants to work with.
“Well, I really enjoy both products” Taya Valkyrie began. “Obviously, I’m a wrestling fan, always have been. There’s a lot of people that get into wrestling [that] are wrestling fans, surprise, and honestly, I don’t know what’s gonna happen next for me because as a lot of people don’t realize is that I have been signed for about eight-and-a-half years from AAA into Lucha Underground into IMPACT.”
Taya Valkyrie on Free Agency
“This is actually my first-ever time in my career as a free agent,” revealed Valkyrie. “So, it’s a really important time for me to really think about what’s important for me, for my family and make the best decision moving forward for my career. So, we will see. It will all play out, don’t worry.”
Valkyrie finished by naming the specific performers in both companies that she would like to get in the ring with.
“Well, I have never wrestled Kris Statlander” Valkyrie stated. “I’ve never wrestled her. Is that weird? There’s somebody like that too that I’ve never wrestled before. I don’t know. Even someone like Britt Baker, I’ve only ever been in a tag match with her for like — I think we were against each other for like two seconds. There was never any sort of actual, you know, interaction there so I would love to face both of them,” said Valkyrie.
“I would love to face obviously some people like Charlotte and Sasha Banks and I have wrestled Io [Shirai] before one time in STARDOM and I would like to wrestle her again. So those are kind of my current top chicks if I had to pick.”
Where would you like to see Taya Valkyrie end up? WWE or AEW? Let us know in the comments
Impact Wrestling on 1/19 featured the first episode filmed during the tapings over the weekend. Some significant events took place on the show including an in-person appearance by Tony Khan. “Big Money” Matt Hardy brought Private Party into the promotion as well.
Impact 1/19 Quick Results:
Eric Young defeated Rhino
Kimber Lee & Susan defeated Jordynne Grace & Jazz
Brian Myers defeated Fallah Bah
#1 Contenders Impact Tag Team Titles Private Party defeated Chris Sabin & James Storm
Here are 8 Takeaways from Impact Wrestling 1/19:
Tony Khan & Jerry Lynn Help Matt Hardy & Private Party Qualify For Tag Title Shot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hcf5KipibqM
Earlier in the night, the Good Brothers were cutting a promo when they were interrupted by Chris Sabin. With Alex Shelley on the shelf with an injury, James Storm also came out as Sabin’s new, albeit temporary, partner. All 4 men were then interrupted by Matt Hardy making his return to Impact Wrestling. Hardy was decked out as “Big Money Matt” and lobbied for his clients, Private Party, to be added to the tag title mix as well. The Good Brothers then pointed out that Private Party and Sabin/Storm could face each other with the winner facing the Good Brothers down the line. This set up the main event for later in the evening.
Before the match began, Tony Khan and Jerry Lynn came out in person and set up chairs at ringside. Lynn, of course, has a long history in Impact. Along with guys like AJ Styles and Low-Ki, Lynn is a pioneer of the X-Division.
After a fun back and forth match, Lynn would get involved in the finish. Sabin was on the top turnbuckle as Private Party was looking to set him up for their Gin and Juice finisher. Sabin tried to escape but Jerry Lynn ran to ringside and held onto his foot, holding him in place for Private Party to hit their finisher and get the win. Now, Private Party has earned a title shot against the Good Brothers.
Taya Valkyrie Arrested For Attempted Murder, Future Plans Teased
It’s not clear if Taya was really at these tapings or if they just filmed this scene ahead of time. Regardless, it appears Taya Valkyrie’s run in Impact Wrestling has come to an end. What a run it was too. She held the Knockouts Championship for the longest single-reign in history and was involved in major storylines throughout her entire time here. I don’t even think she missed anytime for injury either.
Acey Romero brought new evidence to Tommy Dreamer this week that proved Taya Valkyrie was the one who shot John E Bravo. She was taken away to prison after sharing an emotional moment with Rosemary.
After Taya was gone, Tommy Dreamer, Acey Romero, and John E Bravo had a very humorous exchange where they commented on what “prison” Taya might be going to. I’ve taken the liberty of transcribing their comments:
Tommy Dreamer: “If she’s lucky, she’ll go to Jacksonville (AEW)….state prison. But for what she did and she’s not that lucky, I think they are going to send her to Stamford (WWE) Maximum Penitentiary for 2 years, maybe an option for 3, and trust me, that will change a person’s soul forever.”
Acey Romero: “I hope they don’t send her to Baltimore (ROH)”
Tony Khan Explains Why He Sent “Big Money Matt” To Impact
After Matt Hardy had made his first appearance on the show, we were treated to another Tony Khan video this week. Tony Schiavone wasn’t with him this time, however, rather it was Jerry Lynn by his side. In this video, Khan explained why he sent Matt Hardy to Impact. Khan explained that he can’t “out carny” Impact because he’s a nice guy, and not a carny. Big Money Matt is a carny, however, so Khan sent him to Impact to cause chaos in response to Impact stars showing up on his program.
Moose and Rich Swann Rivalry Continues
At Genesis a couple of weeks ago, Moose earned a title shot against Rich Swann by defeating Willie Mack in an “I Quit” match. Then, after their Hard to Kill main event match where they teamed together along with Chris Sabin against Omega and the Good Brothers, Moose attacked Swann in the back. Swann cut an in-ring promo this week and said he had trust issues with Moose in the match at Hard to Kill. He calls out Moose, who joins him in the ring. Swann said he wants to give Moose his title shot tonight, but Moose declines, saying he wants the match to take place on his terms. The champion can’t wait, however, and goes after Moose and sends him retreating to the back after a Phoenix Splash.
Violent By Design Takes Out Rhino
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzoiF_bXE9s
Eric Young and Rhino faced off in singles action to kick-off Impact this week. Both had been involved in the trios “Old School Rules” match at Hard to Kill. Young had Joe Doering and Deaner at ringside and Rhino brought Cousin Jake with him. Deaner would provide a distraction at ringside that allowed Doering to hit a brutal clothesline on Rhino and toss him back into the ring where Young was waiting. Young locked in a heel hook and made Rhino tapout for the win.
After the match, the faction continued the assault on Rhino’s leg, much like Young has done to Rich Swann in the past. They wrapped Rhino’s leg in a steel chair and Doering stomped on it, possibly leading to an injury. It might be awhile before Rhino is 100% again.
Kimber Lee & Susan Pick Up Win Over Jordynne Grace & Jazz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFuLHHsjekw
Su Yung was Susie and is now Susan, a straight-laced business-suit wearing persona. She teamed with Kimber Lee this week and had Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo on the outside. Their opponents were the team of Jordynne Grace and Jazz, who went to the semi-finals of the Knockouts tag-team title tournament.
The finish of this match came, when Kimber Lee had the ref distracted, allowing Purrazzo to hit Jazz with the Knockouts title. Susan then covered Jazz and picked up the win for her team.
It appears Susan is something of a “Susan” as well:
Brian Myers Defeats Fallah Bah, Will Face Eddie Edwards Next Week
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4XLUaI8hvE
The “Most Professional Wrestler” Brian Myers didn’t shy away from taking shortcuts to pick up the win this week. He was taking on Fallah Bah, who has lost a dramatic amount of weight lately and is looking good. The finish of the match came when Fallah Bah inadvertently poked Myers in the eye. As Myers was explaining this to the referee, he was able to hit a low-blow with the ref out of position. Myers then hit a big clothesline and got the pin.
Later in the show, Myers went to Dr. Ross Foreman to get his poked eye evaluated. At the time, the doctor was treating Eddie Edwards for the many injuries he sustained at Hard to Kill. This set up a match between Myers and Edwards for next week.
Taya Valkyrie is done with Impact Wrestling. This week’s episode of Impact on AXS TV featured a segment to write her off TV. PW Insider was first to report this would be her last appearance for the promotion.
Valkyrie originally signed a two year contract with Impact back in 2017. Officials chose the option to roll over her deal for another year in 2019. The extended contract expired last month. The former Lucha Underground star decided to stay with the company until last Saturday’s Hard To Kill PPV where she put over Deonna Purrazzo.
This week’s episode of Impact then saw a segment featuring Valkyrie where it was revealed that she was the one who shot John E. Bravo at his wedding segment with Rosemary. The explanation for her actions were that Taya was trying to protect her friend Rosemary without realizing that the demon Mary was using Bravo to get his “virgin blood.” Tommy Dreamer then had Taya Valkyrie taken to jail as a way to write her off TV.
Dreamer also joked about Taya’s future saying that she will go to Jacksonville State Prison if she is lucky, referencing AEW. However, if she is not lucky she will end up at Stamford Correctional where WWE’s headquarter is situated which, according to Dreamer, changes a person’s soul forever.
News broke yesterday that the hit Netflix series GLOW will not return for a 4th season. The next season was set to be the final one for the series but showrunners made the decision to cancel it due to the pandemic. The show not returning will hit former Knockouts Champion, Taya Valkyrie, particularly hard as she was set to join the cast for the 4th and final season.
Taya took to Twitter to release a statement on GLOW’s cancellation:
“To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement. This past February I was cast on @GLOWnetflix S4. This was finally my chance to be seen as an actress, to work with some of the most talented women behind and in front of the camera.”
“I’m heartbroken that the work we did will never be seen and that we didn’t get to finish what had been started. Thank you to everyone that was so nice to me and supportive on set. I guess I’ll just have to wait longer to meet ya Hollywood.”
A Netflix spokesperson spoke with Deadline regarding the decision to cancel the show.
“We’ve made the difficult decision not to do a fourth season of GLOW due to COVID, which makes shooting this physically intimate show with its large ensemble cast especially challenging,” A Netflix spokesperson told Deadline. “We are so grateful to creators Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch, Jenji Kohan and all the writers, cast and crew for sharing this story about the incredible women of GLOW with us and the world.”
Former Knockouts and Reina de Reinas Champion, Taya Valkyrie, was recently a guest on Konnan’s “Keepin it 100” podcast. During the conversation, Taya talked about what she has been enjoying about empty arena wrestling as of late.
“I watch everything, I try to, at least. So, we’re watching WWE, we’re watching AEW, AAA stuff I watch stuff on YouTube when we can,” Taya said about which promotions she follows. She also noted that empty arena wrestling was hard for her to watch at first.
“I thought it was weird at first,” Taya responded when Konnan asked her about empty arena matches. “I think it’s fine, I actually enjoy a lot of promo segments more without fans because you can really understand what everybody’s saying.”
She continued to use the example of the Miz and Morrison’s segments on Smackdown lately.
“I’m going to put over Mike (the Miz) and John’s (Morrison) segment from this past Friday and they did a really cool in-ring thing and then they sang their rap live. It was cool because you can hear them, you’re paying attention to them and not the reaction of the fans.”
Disco Inferno then chimed in that fans are unable to hijack any segments.
“It reminded me more of a television segment like on Saturday Night Live,” Taya continued.
In addition to wrestling for Impact Wrestling as of late, Taya has been seen in the last couple of Being the Elite episodes. She has been a character in Luchasaurus’ ongoing search for his tail. In Lucha Underground, Taya’s character chopped the head off Luchasaurus’ character.
Impact Wrestling 2/25/20 took place from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas. The main event of the show featured Tessa Blanchard challenging for the X-Division title against champion Ace Austin.
Impact Wrestling 2/25/20 Quick Results:
Daga defeated Rob Van Dam via count-out
Rohit Raju defeated Wentz
Knockouts Championship Jordynne Grace (c) defeated Miranda Alize
Eddie Edwards defeated Michael Elgin (series tied 2-2) (match took place at Wrestling Revolver show)
X-Division Championship Ace Austin (c) vs Tessa Blanchard – No Contest (Taya Valkyrie interference)
Taya Valkyrie Attacks Tessa Blanchard
After Tessa Blanchard defeated Ace Austin at Sacrifice over the weekend, Scott D’Amore granted her a shot at Austin’s X-Division title. Blanchard looked poised to become “Tessa 2 Belts” but Taya Valkyrie hit the ring and attacked her. Valkyrie’s actions caused the match to be thrown out and cost Blanchard her chance to add another belt to her collection.
Valkyrie and Blanchard are no strangers, having previously feuded over the Knockouts championship. The two have also feuded over AAA’s Reina de Reinas championship. Based on the closing segment of Impact Wrestling this week, it looks as though the Taya vs Tessa rivalry has been renewed, this time with the Impact World Championship in the mix.
Do Joey Ryan, Rob Van Dam, & Katie Forbes Share Common Ground?
Rob Van Dam lost to Daga via count-out this week after he bailed on his match to search for Katie Forbes. RVD’s girlfriend accompanied him to the ring for his match but later left to go backstage after being upset with fans saying negative things about her on social media (she was checking her phone the whole match).
When RVD caught up with Forbes backstage, they were both approached by Joey Ryan who let them know he understands where they are coming from. Ryan told RVD and Forbes that the same people who are attacking them on social media also attack him. It seems as though these 3, who previously had issues with each other, may have found some common ground.
Eddie Edwards Evens Best-of-5 Series At 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2X0QFjcIII
Michael Elgin had jumped out to a 2-0 lead in his series with Eddie Edwards but things are all tied up now. This match took place at a Wrestling Revolver show and saw Edwards pick up the victory with a pinning combination. The series will now come down to a 5th and final match.
Strange vignette type things have been airing at random intervals on Impact Wrestling in recent weeks. It appears a mystery person is stalking the goings-on in the promotion from afar. Time will tell when the person behind the vignettes chooses to reveal themselves.
It was announced on Twitter that ICU had hacked Josh Matthews’ account.
Jordynne Grace cut a promo in the back this week saying she plans on being a fighting champion and issuing an open challenge. This brought out 5x Knockouts champion Madison Rayne who thought Grace was acting a bit too confident for a 1x champion who just got the belt. Rayne would then accompany Miranda Alize to the ring for her shot against Grace for the belt.
While Alize would get in some offense and even a near fall, Grace would ultimately pull out the win with a Grace Driver.
A backstage segment featuring Johnny Swinger and Disco Inferno aired this week. Inferno attempted to explain to Swinger why Willie Mack doesn’t want to be his tag team partner but somehow this led to the two deciding they should form a team, although Disco was still a little hazy on the details as the segment came to a close.
Gut Check Returns
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZzhkSw6gvw
Impact announced the return of Gut Check this week. Full episodes of the show are available to watch on Impact Plus but a preview was shown on this week’s episode. On the show, John E Bravo serves as a trainer and is not shy at pointing out trainees’ bad habits.
A vignette for Chris Bey’s signing aired this week on Impact Wrestling. The 24-year old is from the Las Vegas area and has wrestled for the Future Stars of Wrestling promotion in the city. He is a former FSW Heavyweight Champion.
Rohit Raju Picks Up Win Over Wentz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHvI8YBWHEc
The Desi Hit Squad and the Rascalz appear destined for a rivalry. Rohit Raju suggested in a backstage promo that he is upset with the tag title shot the Rascalz were recently given and felt that shot should have gone to the Desi Hit Squad.
In single’s action between Raju and Wentz this week, interference from the rest of the Desi Hit Squad allowed Raju to pick up the win. Things are likely not finished between these two factions, however.
The longest-reigning Knockouts Champion in history will face Jordynne Grace for the belt on Impact Wrestling next Tuesday night. The match was taped in Mexico last month. Taya is the only wrestler ever to hold the championship for longer than a year, having initially won it from Tessa Blanchard at Homecoming on January 6th, 2019.
Valkyrie spoke to Steel Chair Magazine recently about what being the longest-reigning Knockouts champion of all-time means to her.
“I’m extremely blessed and also feel extremely proud of myself. Nobody else understands how much work I put into this than myself, the ups, the downs, the heartaches, the heartbreaks, the successes, everything,” Valkyrie said.
“I’m very proud of myself that it is now manifested itself as the longest-reigning Knockouts Champion,” Taya continued. “To have my face and my name in the Impact Wrestling’s history books with that title is just unreal.”
Revival Of Taya Valkyrie vs Tessa Blanchard Rivalry?
During the interview, Taya also discussed her rivalry with Impact World Champion, Tessa Blanchard.
“On Tessa Blanchard, I’ve beaten her over and over again on many, many occasions. I beat her for the Knockouts Championship, I defended my Knockouts Championship in a Street Fight in Mexico City against her and was successful, I then continued to carry the women’s division for an entire year. I then beat her at Madison Square Garden for the AAA Reina de Reinas championship.”
Taya feels she should be next in line for a shot at Blanchard’s title.
“If anybody has the number one contender spot, it’s me, and I know that in 2020, you will see the revival of the Taya versus Tessa Blanchard rivalry and it is going to get pretty messy because both of us are extremely passionate, hard-working, dedicated, mentally and physically strong.”
She concluded the interview by stating that she plans to be the one to make history in 2020.
“I know this year will be another record-breaking year for me. I will be the one who will be making even more history and even more noise in 2020.”
Taya Valkyrie is working alongside her husband, John Morrison, on a horror film with a premise many wrestling fans will likely find quite entertaining. The film “The Iron Sheik Massacre” focusses on a toy Iron Sheik doll that becomes sentient. The doll then targets a group of new school wrestlers who it feels are insulting old school wrestling traditions. The sentient Iron Sheik doll will be voiced by none other than the Iron Sheik himself.
Valkyrie and Morrison co-wrote the script together on their Honeymoon.
“As of right now, last week John was doing some meetings with the special effects people,” Valkyrie told Metro.
“It’s a very effects-heavy short film because of the nature of it being a horror-comedy. There’s a lot of stuff that’s being worked on right now that did take longer than expected – I’m slowly learning about this. I always thought things just happened, and they were out and ready [laughs] – which sounds ridiculous, but I’ve learned that things take time.”
“It is taking its time, but I think it’s all going to be extremely worth it. We have some of the best special effects people working on it. It will be done this year, 120%.”
John Morrison spoke to BANG Showbiz about the project last May.
“The last thing that I did that I’m finishing right now is a horror-comedy short that Taya and I wrote on our honeymoon. It’s called ‘The Iron Sheik Massacre’,” Morrison told the outlet.
“It’s about a group of new school wrestlers who are dumping on old school wrestling, lightning hits the house and an Iron Sheik doll becomes sentient.”
Impact Wrestling presented its first show from their recent tapings in Mexico last night on AXS TV. The show did not air on Twitch this week due to the ongoing ban that likely stems from Rob Van Dam’s celebration with his girlfriend and his girlfriend’s girlfriend last week.
Here are 8 takeaways from Impact Wrestling 1/21/20:
Challengers Step Up To Tessa Blanchard
Impact Wrestling kicked off this week with Tessa Blanchard delivering an in-ring promo. She was interrupted by Taya Valkyrie who noted that Blanchard was afraid to return to the Knockouts division. Taya and Blanchard have a long history and have feuded over the Knockouts title and AAA’s Reina de Reinas title. Ace Austin also came out and noted he was victorious over Blanchard at Bound for Glory when he won the X-Division Championship ladder match.
A brawl started as Austin and Taya teamed up on the champion. This brought out Trey who still has a grudge against Ace Austin for the things he said about his mother. A tag match pitting Blanchard and Trey against Austin and Valkyrie was scheduled for the main event.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23XP9z9WGRA
During the match, Blanchard took Taya out with a plancha but this left Austin and Trey alone in the ring. Austin would then pick up the win with the Fold (flipping neckbreaker/blockbuster) on Trey. Taya and Ace celebrated to end the show but Taya didn’t want him to get too close.
What does this mean in terms of who will face Blanchard for the title next?
Taurus Steals A Victory Over Moose From Rhino
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW9oOR-soUI
Moose defeated Rhino at Hard to Kill but this week another wrestler with a large animal name was thrown into the mix. AAA’s Taurus, Moose, and Rhino kicked off Impact this week with a triple threat match.
It looked like Rhino had Moose down and was ready to avenge his PPV loss when he hit Moose with a Gore. Taurus swooped in, however, and delivered a headbutt to Rhino to take him out before stealing the pin on Moose for the victory.
Joey Ryan Defeats Maximo, RVD Embarrassed To Be A Wrestler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHKQWPwT0I4
Joey Ryan faced AAA Exotico Maximo this week in singles competition. After some shenanigans, Ryan was able to deliver a penis suplex to Maximo followed by a lollipop-assisted superkick for the win.
After the match, Rob Van Dam was interviewed in the back. RVD said he’s embarrassed to be a pro-wrestler based on what he just saw in the ring. He would continue to say that he’d rather wrestlers just steal his moves if that is the alternative.
Havok Earns A Victory In The Dark War
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eo12RUuM4
Havok picked up a victory over Rosemary in the latest battle of the Dark War. Mitchell and “Suzie” accompanied Havok to the ring this week for her match against Rosemary. The Demon Assassin has been attempting to stop Mitchell from continuing his manipulation of Suzie.
Rosemary was distracted by Mitchell at ringside and delivered a poison mist blast to his face. Her distraction led to Havok gaining the advantage, however, delivering a tombstone piledriver and picking up the win. In the midst of the match, however, Suzie wandered off.
On another note, Father James Mitchell is hoping wrestling fans can help his family raise money for his step-daughter who is battle stage 3 lymphoma. Mitchell posted the following GoFundMe appeal to social media:
I would be grateful if you could share the link and read about my step-daughter. This is a truly difficult time and my wife and I would appreciate it. https://t.co/4LU5ccIsPTpic.twitter.com/wmHAOMKnRD
Elgin is all upset he didn’t win Eddie Edwards’ Call Your Shot trophy at Hard to Kill. He claims Edwards tapped while in a crossface (he was actually just reaching for the ropes.) Edwards attempted to announce he was calling his shot at the next PPV when Elgin interrupted. It was then announced that a best-of-5 series between the two will begin next week.
The Rascalz tend to prefer when Impact’s tapings are held in Nevada, California, anywhere in Canada, or similar locations. Tapings in New York or Mexico provide somewhat of a challenge for the trio and possibly for Rob Van Dam as well.
This week, Wentz announced that he had picked up some peyote instead and that this location was “no longer a desert.” Since Trey was wrestling in the main event, he chose not to participate, however. Wentz and Dez seemed to have a good time until Pagano and Murder Clown sat down and scared them away. The Rascalz will face their scary clown hallucinations in tag action next week.
Johnny Swinger Attempts To Rescue Willie Mack
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLan9BHivGo
During a backstage interview with Jimmy Jacobs, Willie Mack was interrupted by Johnny Swinger this week. Swinger said that if Mack teams with him as the Mack and Pack Connection they will draw a lot of money. Mack did not seem interested, however, since Rich Swann is his partner.
After Mack picked up the win on Rohit Raju, Mahabali Shera hit the ring and began delivering a post-match beatdown to Mack. Swinger then attempted to make the save but was outnumbered by the Desi Hit Squad, who are without Raj currently as Shera sent him on a spiritual journey without first checking in with Gama.
