In an interview with Rolling Stone, Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque promoted the upcoming 25th Anniversary of RAW by answering a host of questions surrounding the event.

The Game started off by describing the palpable energy that is shared between the fans, talent, and management in the WWE Universe.  He described the awe that is experienced when thinking about the longevity and consistency of RAW over 25 years, especially when reminiscing about the first episode which he watched from his home in 1993.

When asked about managing expectations of the fans and talent, Levesque revealed the secret sauce to RAW’s success.  He explained that the show has always been made to meet the expectations of the fanbase, encouraging and including them to be part of what is happening.

However, Triple H also described the difficulties that he faced when arranging the episode that has to celebrate 25 years of coverage.

The first problem is trying to fit everything into a 3 hour show:

“When you take 25 years of memorable moments and characters, trying to boil that down to a three-hour Raw episode being simulcast and in two places, how do you whittle that down to certain people and times and events?”

It’s not physically possible to celebrate everything and everyone in a 3 hour show, but social media and YouTube can be used to help with this issue, as shown by this top 10 list of RAW’s most extreme moments:

The second difficulty that The Game will have to deal with, is remembering that the world keeps on spinning.  Even after the 25th Anniversary episode of RAW, he won’t be given a chance to relax.  Levesque described how Vince McMahon took his headset off at the end of last year’s WrestleMania, and was immediately handed the script for the following night on RAW; but at the same time, The Game highlighted the importance of celebrating the next 25 years as well.

The third, and most interesting, issue that Triple H discussed was not being able to include those who had passed on or those who weren’t able to attend.  While Levesque shows sadness towards those who are no longer here, he emphasized the importance of celebrating the living and the now, as well as repeating the impossibility of including everyone in the show.

“I wish they were, but it’s been 25 years, so people who had a big contribution unfortunately are no longer here. But no different than anything else in life, the celebration is for living and now. It’s the excitement for what the people who are here now have accomplished. It doesn’t mean that the other people didn’t contribute in dramatic ways. Again, 25 years, we’re gonna miss stuff, and I wish everybody could participate in it and celebrate with us, but it just can’t be.”

Opinion:

The more I read the last quote above, the more I question how controversial this statement could be.  It appears like a blanket policy that is being used so that WWE doesn’t celebrate anyone who has passed away, which means they miss out big names from RAW’s history.  However, this also allows WWE to steer clear of controversial names that they’ve hidden from the Network too.  It seems a shame, and a little disrespectful, not to have some form of montage that celebrates moments from those passed on, but I can understand their reluctance to do so – even if I don’t necessarily agree with it.

Last night Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and the New Day competed in a lip sync battle on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

The competition started with New Day singing “Motownphilly” by Boyz II Men. Jimmy Fallon went with “Billy Don’t You Lose My Number” by Phil Collins. As for Stephanie and Triple H, they ended up singing “How Far I’ll Go” from the Moana soundtrack, even though Triple H had wanted “Seek and Destroy” by Metallica. He got into it by the end, though.

Check out the video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsSxRElRe1I

New Day on Smackdown Live!

New Day has fallen out of the tag-team title picture recently on Smackdown. For the last few weeks, the trio has been focussing on Xavier Woods’ inclusion in the U.S title tournament. Woods was recently eliminated in the semi-finals by Jinder Mahal.

It has been confirmed that Jim Ross and Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler will feature on RAW’s 25th Anniversary episode.  The two commentary legends have a long and successful history with WWE, and have become synonymous with professional wrestling commentary.

Triple H recently spoke to USA Today’s “For The Win” to promote the historic episode of RAW, where he highlighted and praised the careers of these two commentary giants.

Some people just have chemistry with each other

The Game pinpointed Lawler’s knowledge and understanding of the business, as well as his ability to turn situations on their head with humour, or the inflection of his voice.  Contrast that with ‘the straight man’ attitude and persona of JR, and it makes an extremely effective duo.  Triple H explained that while Lawler has his excitement and energy, JR provides the intensity, passion, and a sense of realism.

“I would see JR […] on the edge of his seat like every fan in the arena, because at the end of the day he’s just a fan and he was going crazy for what we did, but that’s what made him so good. When you put that energy that he and Jerry [brought] together, it was magical.”

Moreover, it’s their dedication beyond being commentators which is also admirable.

Jim Ross recently appeared on the Unsanction Podcast, where he discussed Shelton Benjamin, as well as disagreements with Vince McMahon.

The commentary legend explained that Shelton Benjamin was a top worker, but the timing always seemed to be off whenever he was in a position to win a heavyweight championship title.  Ross continued by describing Benjamin’s ability on the mic as his main downfall.

But JR was also able to be critical of himself:

“I wasn’t the easiest guy to manage. The story about McMahon used to give J.R. hell; he did sometimes. But guess what, guys? I deserved it sometimes. I deserved to get my ass taken to the woodshed. I’m not infallible, I’m a human being, I have strong opinions, and sometimes I forget who my audience is. And also, I was like one of those guys that I don’t like now and disagreed with every damn thing you say – if you don’t agree with everything I say, you’re an idiot, and I used to think that.”

It’s clear to see that Triple H’s praise seems to be mirrored by Jim Ross’ attitude towards his own work, career, and passion:

“If you’re asking if I could carry the mail on today’s WWE product, absolutely. I like to consider myself a 40-plus year broadcaster. I’ve done boxing, I’ve done MMA, I’ve done NFL, I’ve done XFL. I’d like to think I’m a broadcaster/storyteller. And I believe that if I couldn’t adapt, it’d be on me, not on the product. Because product’s what it is. I’ve done everything from WrestleMania to Smokey Mountain Wrestling. It’s all different man.”

Opinion/Discussion:

Is the combination of Jim Ross and Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler the ultimate commentary team in professional wrestling, let alone just WWE?

As we’ve reported last week, WWE COO Triple H and ex-UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, along with her agent, were having dinner in Los Angeles Tuesday night. Both Rousey and Triple H were asked about what was discussed in the meeting but nothing was said.

Per a report from Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it’s believed this was a planted story by WWE. It’s possible the company wanted major news outlets such as TMZ to pick up the story to build-up hype around Rousey’s future WWE debut. Meltzer revealed this is something that occasionally happens between TMZ and WWE, and stated if WWE truly wanted to keep things a secret they wouldn’t have held the dinner in a public restaurant.

They also wouldn’t have shot angles with Rousey at the Mae Young Classic last summer if the two sides hadn’t already come to an understanding. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more…..

As we’ve noted, WWE COO Triple H had dinner with Ronda Rousey and her agent at a famous LA restaurant this past Tuesday. “The Game” missed SmackDown Live’s tapings in Alabama for the dinner, and with Rousey’s agent being present, it’s expected that business was discussed.

Rousey’s WWE debut has been rumored to occur at or before WrestleMania 34 this upcoming April. With the first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble taking place later this month speculation has arisen that she could possibly debut at the event. Triple H recently spoke to The Associated Press about his dinner meeting with Rousey and confirmed that they are talking to Rousey about a possible WWE deal:

“We are talking to Ronda, as we’ve been for a while,” Triple H said. “She has a lot of things going on. We have a lot of things going on. But we have a great relationship with her, a very friendly standpoint for a long period of time now. It was great to catch up with her.”

As far as if a deal has been reached and whether or not a Royal Rumble appearance is planned for Rousey, “The Game” said they have nothing to announce at this time:

“We have nothing to announce at this time,” Triple H said. “But she’s a huge fan of what we do and she’s incredibly interested in what we do and the opportunities that lie there. We’re fans of hers and incredibly interested in what those opportunities could be with us. But there’s a lot of things to walk through. We’re talking. We’re having conversations.”

One of the biggest stories to watch in 2018 will be whether or not WWE clears Daniel Bryan to wrestle again. Bryan was forced into retirement back in February 2016 due to the numerous concussions he sustained throughout his career. Since then, several neurologists have given him the green light to step back in the ring.

WWE COO Triple H maintains that WWE has still not cleared Bryan to compete and is adamant that there will be no exceptions if WWE’s medical staff feels the risks to the performer are too high.

While speaking at the Television Critics Association winter press tour panel to promote the upcoming RAW 25 special, Triple H shed new light on the situation.

”There can be no exception, medically,” he says. “If the belief is that he’s not healthy enough and it is a risk for to perform, then I don’t know why we would ever allow him to step in the ring unless it can be proven otherwise.”

He continued, “We have some of the best medical people in the world working for us. Our wellness policy, our concussion programs, out protocols–I’ll put them up against any on the planet. The medical experts will make the determination of whether Bryan can set foot in that ring or not,” Triple H explains.

“Personally, for him, I know it’s something he loved doing and I hope he has that opportunity. But at the same point in time, he’s married and has a child. We serve the human being first.”

It’s believed that Daniel Bryan’s WWE contract runs through this summer, at which point he could become a free agent and wrestle elsewhere.

H/T to GameSpot.com for the transcribed quote

Last month former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann was arrested for an incident that occurred between himself and his wife. Swann’s wife, Vannarah Riggs (aka Su Yung), competed at a FEST wrestling event earlier in the night and was being critiqued by Swann while riding together in a car. Things got heated and Riggs got out of the vehicle as it was still in motion. Swann stopped the car and chased Riggs down before forcing her back into the car via headlock.

Swann was subsequently arrested for the incident. In late December Swann’s wife posted a picture indicating that she and Swann had made-up:

“I can not wait to see my husband tomorrow! After such an awesome weekend of wrestling debuting in two different promotions across America nothing would be better than to see his face.”

We noted earlier today that Stephanie McMahon, Triple H, The New Day, Mark Henry, The Miz, Maryse, and WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels were in California for the Television Critics Association Winter Tour event. Stephanie McMahon and Triple H took the stage for a panel and were asked about Rich Swann’s WWE status. Here’s what they had to say:

Triple H:

“We are just waiting on legal,” Triple H said. “We have a zero tolerance policy on that, as you’ve seen, so he’s suspended until it is determined legally one way or the other.”

Stephanie:

“And if he’s convicted, he will be released.”

Triple H:

“Immediately.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

WWE COO Triple H recently did an interview with Sporting News to promote this past Wednesday’s airing of NXT on the USA Network. “The Game” revealed if he’s surprised by the success NXT has seen and if he pushed for it to air on the USA Network. You can check out the highlights here:

You’ve had NXT on the WWE Network now for 3-4 years. Is there anything that’s really surprised you about its growth and what it is now?

“Look, I’m always surprised. I don’t want to say surprised because it’s pleasantly surprising. You planning for it to be great and you hope that it is and then you’re pleasantly surprised that it is. You want to put on the best product possible. I think, for me, I look at the Performance Center and the talent there and I look at the talent that we have coming in and I just try to say what would I want to see if I’m a kid and if I put myself that way. At the end of the day, I’m just a fan, right? A fan of this industry and the business of what we do and I say I really like that talent. I’d love to see him face this talent. I there would be a really cool way to do it but doing this and that’s how we put it together. What’s been nice about it is even when we’ve had setbacks, I think the thing that’s been probably, if there’s been one thing that’s surprising is the ability to continue to just let it evolve organically on its own.

“You can look at the short period of time that NXT’s existed in that four years or whatever and you can see distinct, almost little eras of the Finn Balor time and then Samoa Joe, then there was (Shinsuke) Nakamura, then Bobby Roode. Before that it was Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn and Neville. You have these sections of time that almost become these eras of NXT. Whether talent gets called up or whatever the situation is, there’s kind of that next thing that begins to pocket in there and people latch onto. There are a lot of talented performers available. Yes, they’re all learning. Yes, they’re all getting better every day but there’s a lot of talented performers available. To me, the exciting part about it is if you build it, they will come. We just put it out there in a way that people seem to appreciate and they continue to watch so it’s exciting.”

NXT being on USA Network is part of WWE week on the channel. Is this something you have previously pushed for, getting NXT on USA Network, even for a one-shot?

“No. It’s funny, I really haven’t. This has been exciting in that … break this down however you want and you can look at it and say holiday week or however you want. NBCUniversal, USA Network, the No. 1 cable channel in America, is taking an hour of primetime television and giving it to NXT which is huge from where this has come the last two, three years, where NXT has come. And they called us for it.

“It wasn’t like we went to them and pitched it. This was a “we would like to do Monday ‘RAW,’ Tuesday ‘SmackDown,’ Wednesday we’ll do ‘NXT.'” When they sent me the email, our television studio, to ask if I would be interested in doing this, I was like, is this a trick question? Yeah, I’ll put “NXT” on USA for a week and expose it to a much, much, much larger audience than what we have on the (WWE) network.

“While the WWE Network will always be NXT’s home in some way for sure, this is a great opportunity for a lot of people to see a product they’ve never really had an opportunity to see before other than clips and bits and pieces. I’m sure they’ve heard a lot about it and I’m hoping a lot of people will tune in and sample it for the first time because it’s different. It’s an alternative and it’s a different flavor and I’m hoping people will sample it.”

You’ve obviously learned a lot of different things behind the scenes over the last five, ten years. Is there anything in particular that you’re looking at now that you want to learn or get more experience at?

“This industry, what we do, is fluid. It’s constantly changing and I feel like you’re never going to stop learning. The generation that watches right now is different than a generation that watched five years ago, 10 years ago, 15 years ago. It’s totally different. So, you’re constantly learning, you’re constantly having to put your finger on the pulse of what works today. It’s like music in a way and it’s the closest thing that I can relate what we do.

“When you make music, when it’s really good, it stays classic forever. That song will stay classic forever. But a song that’s classic today from 30 years ago, if you wrote that song today, would die. It would be miserable. No one would like it. It’s changed. People’s tastes have changed. People’s acceptance of things has changed. Everything changes on a constant basis so you have to stay ahead of that and the people that are open to that and can continue to change and are willing to change stay consistently successful. The ones that aren’t are one-hit wonders or are successful for a period of time and then it goes away for them. It’s constantly learning and staying open to that because, I think, the moment that you start thinking I know what I’m doing, you just do this and it’s good; you’re done.”

You can check out Triple H’s full interview with Sporting News by clicking this link here.

Triple H was recently interviewed by CBS Sports and threw cold water on rumors Ronda Rousey’s WWE signing was imminent. He does admit the two sides are talking but indicates that media reports regarding Rousey and WWE are inaccurate.

Triple H Interview Highlights

“It’s funny because every now and then I wake up and I look at either social media or the news and I see a report and it’s like, well, that’s news to me because I’m the one who would be having that conversation,” Levesque said to CBS Sports “So it’s interesting with ‘sources say.'”

“Everybody is very busy and I know that from Ronda’s side and her team, they are looking for an opportunity,” Levesque said. “I have made it very clear that an opportunity exists and it’s just a matter of us getting together and having conversations.

“I wish I had something more to tell you than that but we are just kind of talking and feeling where it goes and she is making movies and doing other things. But it’s exciting and there are a lot of interest on both sides so let’s see where it goes.”

Triple H recently conducted an interview with CBS Sports and revealed his opinion of Chris Jericho facing Kenny Omega in NJPW.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3Qp-Yy7WpQ

Triple H on Kenny Omega vs. Chris Jericho

Triple H seems happy for Jericho, Omega, and everyone involved. Here is what he told CBS Sports recently:

“I think it’s great. Good for Chris,” Levesque said. “It’s phenomenal. Good for Kenny, good for New Japan. We were aware. That was a conversation that was had.”

“It’s great, it’s good for him,” Levesque added. “Chris is one of the greatest talents in the history of the business, so I think it’s great. Good product is good product. I’m happy for them, happy for Chris and happy for everybody.”

the full interview can be read here.

Chris Jericho on Clearing the Match with Vince McMahon

Triple H also confirmed Jericho’s comments earlier this week regarding having cleared the match with Vince McMahon.

Jericho had this to say on the “Busted Open” radio program:

“I know [McMahon] wasn’t upset because I called him six weeks before and told him as soon as the deal was done,” Jericho said. “I would never surprise him like that. I didn’t ask him for his permission, but I didn’t have to. I told him what was going on — and to be quite frank for you guys, he was super excited about it.”

“If you know Vince, he loves wrestling. It’s what he knows, and it’s what he knows best. I think, obviously, his mission is to seek and destroy and kill every other company, but I think he secretly likes it when other companies do good, because it just makes it better for his company.”

Triple H and Jinder Mahal’s highly-anticipated match in India has now come and gone. Both men got a tremendous pop from the crowd as they made their entrances. Mahal kicked out of a Pedigree at the two count and some “This Is Awesome” chants rang out. Mahal reportedly got distracted by the Indian crowd and was hit with another Pedigree for the three count. The match lasted roughly around 30 minutes.

“The Game” praised Mahal after the match, and Mahal promised the crowd that the next time he returns to India he will be WWE Champion. Also after the match, Triple H danced with Mahal and the Singh Brothers – before hitting one of the Singhs with a Pedigree and leaving. Check it out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEVcFqu-LDQ&feature=youtu.be

WWE Superstar Jinder Mahal (with The Singh Brothers) recently did an interview with TOI Sports to promote his upcoming match against Triple H in New Delhi, India. “The Modern Day Maharaja” discussed feeling the pressure of facing off against someone such as Triple H, and his belief that “The Game” is past his prime. You can check out the highlights here:

His match with Triple H:

“This is definitely the biggest match of my career. Probably the biggest match in Indian wrestling history. I’m really disappointed that I’m not here as WWE champion, but a match against Triple H is more than making up for it. I was really looking forward to [facing] Kevin Owens, but this is a really big match.”

Feeling the pressure of measuring up to “The Game”:

“I would be lying if I said it was not a little bit nervous. I definitely feel the pressure. I’m very, very nervous. Triple H said in a recent interview that now his job is to ensure that the next generation of WWE superstars are up to par, so basically Triple H is the measuring sick, so I need this match personally. I want to see how I measure up to Triple H, the ‘King of Kings’.”

His belief that Triple H is past his prime:

“I personally believe that Triple H is a bit past his prime, whereas I haven’t even hit my prime. I’m 31 years old. Day by day, week by week, month by month I’m getting better. I hope Triple H sees that, and come tomorrow I think he’s going to see that my arm is going to be raised at the end of the night [in celebration of victory].”

You can check out Mahal’s full interview with TOI Sports by clicking here.

– WWE Hall Of Famer Kevin Nash underwent a right knee replacement surgery earlier this week. Nash posted the following photos and revealed it took more than 20 staples to close him up:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcXrwhRgWxZ/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcaxo22g0DA/

– Jinder Mahal was gifted a custom ring jacket by designer Narendra Kumar to wear for his match against Triple H tomorrow at the WWE Supershow live event in New Delhi, India. Mahal Tweeted out the following photo:

Thank you to @Narisworld for creating this beautiful ring-jacket which I will proudly wear to face @TripleH tmrw in New Delhi in #TheBiggestMatchInIndianHistory pic.twitter.com/N6lEbg5oQk

— The Maharaja (@RajTheMaharaja) December 8, 2017

The main event from WWE’s 2nd Abu Dhabi show featured Triple H challenging for the Intercontinental Championship against the current title-holder, Roman Reigns. Roman Reigns successfully defended his title at the event.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcc3qnVAuPh/?taken-by=wwe

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bcc70SggvO9/

#WWEIndia Supershow On Saturday

Saturday’s WWE live event from India has been billed as a “Super Show” and will feature Triple H vs. Jinder Mahal in the biggest match in the country’s history. The rest of the card is as follows:

• The Shield: Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose vs. Samoa Joe and RAW Tag Team Champions Cesaro and Sheamus
• Braun Strowman vs. Kane
• Finn Balor vs Bray Wyatt
• RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss vs. Sasha Banks
• Jason Jordan vs Elias
• WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore vs. Kalisto
• Apollo Crews and Titus O’Neil vs Gallows and Anderson
• Jeet Rama and Kishan Rafter vs The Miztourage

Thank you to @Narisworld for creating this beautiful ring-jacket which I will proudly wear to face @TripleH tmrw in New Delhi in #TheBiggestMatchInIndianHistory pic.twitter.com/N6lEbg5oQk

— The Maharaja (@RajTheMaharaja) December 8, 2017

Triple H recently announced WWE has signed 2 new developmental prospects. The signings include the first ever Kuwaiti WWE signee as well as the first female superstar from the Middle East.

The signings were made official recently in Abu Dhabi during WWE’s 2-day tour of the country.

Another historic moment here in #WWEAbuDhabi as we welcome @shadiabseiso, the first woman from the Middle East and Nasser Alruwayeh the first Kuwaiti signee, to @WWE. @WWEmena pic.twitter.com/DnFbZlazQL

— Triple H (@TripleH) December 8, 2017

Shadia Bseiso

Bseiso is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu blue belt who has been featured on ESPN. In addition to her martial arts background, she has worked as a TV presenter in Jordan.

https://twitter.com/shadiabseiso/status/939165597958574081

Nasser Jamal Alruwayeh

Nasser has competed in jiu-jitsu tournaments and frequently works as an athletic coach. Videos on his YouTube channel feature him doing CrossFit and various other workout routines.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXsrxdMjJzj/?hl=en&taken-by=nasserjimmy

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcckCH1ngID/?hl=en&taken-by=nasserjimmy

Roman Reigns’ Intercontinental championship will be on the line when he battles WWE COO Triple H at Friday night’s live event from Abu Dhabi. Both men spoke with GulfNews.com about the match.

Reigns said he’s a fighting champion and has no problem putting the gold on the line against anybody. “I’m super excited,” he said. “Going against Triple H, I think that speaks for itself. I’m always down to defend my yard… It’s not just a regular match, it’s for my Intercontinental title. I’m looking forward to put it up on the line… that’s the type of champion I want to be.”

Triple H said “we’ll see” what happens when the Big Dog and The Game step in the ring together. They’ve tangled before and he thinks his intensity will give him the edge.

“I bring a different intensity that my era brought to the ring. This is kind of a rematch from WrestleMania 32… and Roman is probably one of the most intense competitors in the WWE right now so I look forward to stepping in the ring with him. He calls himself the ‘Big Dog’, I call myself ‘The Game’… So, we’ll see.”

Friday night will mark the first time Triple H has challenged for the Intercontinental Championship since 2006. He’s a 5-time IC champion.

Triple H spoke with ESPN yesterday to hype WWE’s upcoming tour of Abu Dhabi and India. During the course of the interview, he commented on the possibility of being cheered over Jinder Mahal in India.

Triple H Interview Highlights

On possibly being cheered over Jinder in India:

“I don’t know. I’m a lot better at being the villain,” Levesque said. “It would be interesting to see when we get there. I’ve been cheered and I’ve been booed. If the fans want to support me because they have been watching me for the last 20-plus years, that’s great.”

On if the fans in India like Jinder:

“When I was in India, a lot of people asked about him (Mahal) and what I thought about him. Did I respect him? A lot of people have mixed feelings about Jinder Mahal as a representative. In some ways he represents India, but a lot of people don’t like the way he represents himself as a WWE superstar.”

“The question was asked so many times that I thought what better way to prove what I thought than stepping into the ring with him. If Jinder wants to prove it to the fans in India, there could be no better way than by doing it against me there.”

On why he still wrestles:

“It’s still fun for me. It’s still something I enjoy. And it’s something that I will always enjoy. It’s fun to get out there and remember why you enjoy this in the first place.”

The full interview can be read here.

Later this week, WWE heads to the United Arab Emirates for two shows in Abu Dhabi at the Zayed Sports City Tennis Stadium. During an interview with Abu Dhabi’s The National newspaper, The Game spoke about competing in UAE for the first time about, wrestling at 48 years old and his match against Roman Reigns this Friday night.

WWE has been traveling to Abu Dhabi for the past five years and sees the Middle East as an important market for both holding shows and recruiting talent. “We have had recruiting trips in the Middle East,” said Triple H. “We are also doing recruiting trips in India. I think as the world becomes more connected it is more imperative than ever before for you to not only to expand everywhere in the world but to localise and be on the ground in those markets.”

Roman Reigns gets a lot of backlash from fans who perceive him as the ‘chosen one’ by management, but Triple H said those fans really don’t know what they’re talking about.

“Roman is in an unique position because the fan base tends to believe that he is this chosen one that the WWE wants in this position so they choose not to accept that position. But the truth is, and some people will listen to this and want to argue against it, but honestly most of the people who argue against it aren’t qualified to make that argument. I am. Roman is one of the most skilled performers bar none in the WWE right now and that is on every level.”

As for how long he plans to keep wrestling, Triple H said right now, it’s still fun for him and it’s something that he enjoys. He knows he can’t perform forever, but he doesn’t ever see a time when it’s not fun for him anymore. He has certainly grown into his corporate executive role at WWE, but he doesn’t have 10,000 people going nuts for him when he’s at the office.

You can check out the full interview at TheNational.ae.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BbgHQGeleFG/

– Below is video of Samir Singh talking about Triple H to promote The Game’s match with Jinder Mahal at the WWE Supershow live event in New Delhi next Saturday night. Singh talks about how Triple H suggested they go to Bollywood following their WWE tryout matches and how getting into Bollywood led to Triple H signing them for the Cruiserweight Classic, then the roster. Singh goes on about Jinder and how they belong with him and says The Modern Day Maharaja will reign supreme over Triple H in India, where he will be the underdog. Samir says they will show Triple H why they are the new “Games” in town.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow2IBN7uHs4?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– WWE taped the following matches tonight in Los Angeles for this week’s Main Event episode:

* Akira Tozawa vs. Brian Kendrick
* Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson vs. Heath Slater and Rhyno

– Rapper Machine Gun Kelly, who has appeared on WWE TV in the past and provided a few theme songs for pay-per-view events, announced on Twitter that he will be performing at WWE’s Tribute to The Troops special tomorrow from Naval Base San Diego in California. He will be performing his new “Home” single. As noted, WWE will tape the Troops Tribute tomorrow morning before SmackDown airs later in the night from the same city. MGK tweeted the following on the performance:

going to be performing our new song “Home” for the first time in front of our soldiers at the @WWE Tribute to the Troops.. tune in 12/14 on USA ???

— mgk (@machinegunkelly) December 5, 2017

On a recent episode of former WWE official Bruce Prichard’s podcast, Something To Wrestle With, the WWE’s Survivor Series 2002 pay-per-view (PPV) was reviewed. During the episode, Prichard discussed the infamous Katie Vick storyline that WWE put on, which is widely considered as one of the worst in the company’s history. For those of you who don’t know, Triple H feuded with Kane and would continuously bring up “The Big Red Machine’s” deceased ex-girlfriend, Katie Vick.

At one point Triple H (dressed as Kane) did a segment in which he snuck into a funeral home where Vick’s body was being held and performed necrophilia on it inside a casket. The segment was done in very poor taste and WWE has removed virtually all references to it from their archives. Prichard revealed that WWE originally had planned to introduce Scott Vick, who was Katie’s storyline brother, into the WWE.

Scott went by the name “Sick Boy” in WCW, but was later signed to WWE’s developmental system at the time of the storyline:

“You ever have those moments in your life where there are things that are so traumatic that you block them out entirely? (This) really and truly is one of them on so many different counts. The original idea behind Katie Vick was a way to introduce Scott Vick, who was a part of our developmental system.

“We were going to bring Scott in, and he was going to work with Kane or Triple H, I forget which at this point. Scott just had some really, really horrible dark matches at TV and on the road. When he got the nod to come up to the show, all of his matches from that point going forward just, the bottom fell out. Vince is like ‘What the hell are we doing?”

Apparently Vince McMahon scrapped those plans and the entire storyline was changed:

“So, he changed, and we had already teased the name Katie Vick. So it’s like ‘Ok, let’s change this and move it over to Kane. It can be his girlfriend.’ It was during a time that Vince was big into ‘We need more soap opera, we need more stories behind the characters.’

“So we started creating stories and it came to the story of what if Kane accidentally, didn’t murder her, but was driving and, oh my god, then the drinking and it just grew. It’s another glowing example of ‘Don’t suggest or say things in jest that you don’t want to have show up on the show”

– During the latest edition of The Ross Report Podcast, Jim Ross interviewed his former commentary partner Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler. When asked who was the most difficult celebrity to deal with at WrestleMania, Lawler took the name of Aretha Franklin:

“Aretha Franklin is still alive. Remember what a pain in the butt she was at WrestleMania that year? Oh my gosh! Way passed her glory days, but still the biggest diva that we’d ever seen. Very high maintenance, Aretha Franklin.”

– As noted before yesterday was the first night of the final NXT Tapings of this year. After the tapings, Triple H sent out the following tweet, commenting on the final NXT Tapings of 2017:

The last @FullSail taping of 2017
…AND the first taping of a new chapter in @WWENXT’s history.#WeAreNXT
@AndradeCienWWE @Zelina_VegaWWE pic.twitter.com/gnizBueaiX

— Triple H (@TripleH) November 29, 2017

You can check out the complete spoiler results for NXT tapings from last night including a title change here.

– As we’ve noted, former WWE Champion Chris Jericho will be taking on Kenny Omega for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 12. Omega is a member of the infamous Bullet Club; which has seen high-profile members such as Finn Balor, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, The Young Bucks, and many more.

The tagline for Jericho and Omega’s match has bee deemed “Alpha vs. Omega,” and it seems Jericho has launched the “Alpha Club” in a slight jab towards Omega and The Bullet Club. “Y2J” posted the following picture of himself wearing an Alpha Club t-shirt which you can buy here. All proceeds go to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcDil_SDcUm/

– Triple H and former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal will be going head-to-head in the main event of WWE’s live event in New Delhi, India on December 9th. WWE posted a video of Triple H cutting a promo on Mahal from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando. Check it out:

Triple H has sent Formula One champion driver, Lewis Hamilton, a custom WWE Championship Title.

From us @WWE to @F1 Champion @LewisHamilton, finish the season strong at the #AbuDhabiGP…hope to see you when @WWE comes to Abu Dhabi on December 7 & 8. #WWEAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/NXw7pMuOxT

— Triple H (@TripleH) November 24, 2017

WWE Abu Dhabi Tour

WWE will be in Abu Dhabi, where Lewis will have his final race of the season, on December 7th and 8th. Originally, WWE was only to hold one event in the country but added a 2nd date after canceling their 2nd show in India.

Triple H vs. Roman Reigns has already been announced as the main event of the show on the 8th. The next night WWE will be in India where Triple H is scheduled to take on Jinder Mahal.

– Below is a preview for this week’s WWE SmackDown from Houston, featuring the fallout from Sunday’s Survivor Series pay-per-view:

Catch the fallout from #SurvivorSeries on an all-new #SDLive, LIVE TOMORROW NIGHT on @USA_Network! #RAW pic.twitter.com/7work6RP9q

— WWE (@WWE) November 21, 2017

– WWE taped the following matches tonight in Houston to air on this week’s Main Event episode:

* Gran Metalik vs. Brian Kendrick
* Apollo Crews vs. Curt Hawkins

– WWE continued teasing Triple H vs. Braun Strowman and Triple H vs. Kurt Angle in the opening segment of tonight’s RAW from Houston. You can see photos & video from the segment below:

This can't be good… @RealKurtAngle is coming for @TripleH after The #KingOfKings betrayed the #RAW General Manager at #SurvivorSeries! pic.twitter.com/3Izt6KWx7f

— WWE (@WWE) November 21, 2017

.@RealKurtAngle's son @JasonJordanJJ is HERE and he wants a match with The #CerebralAssassin @TripleH!!! #RAW @StephMcMahon pic.twitter.com/vH7Ou8Zzkw

— WWE (@WWE) November 21, 2017

A FIRED UP @RealKurtAngle is not about to sit back and watch @TripleH and @StephMcMahon gloat about #SurvivorSeries… #RAW pic.twitter.com/L9zwR7mQgT

— WWE (@WWE) November 21, 2017

Business just picked up…#RAW @BraunStrowman @TripleH pic.twitter.com/IzxGGEItd3

— WWE (@WWE) November 21, 2017

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llUlBn63bec?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

Above is video of Stephanie McMahon entering the ring to check on Triple H after WWE Survivor Series went off the air. For those who missed it, Triple H and Braun Strowman won the men’s 5-on-5 Traditional Elimination Match for Team RAW but the pay-per-view ended with Braun destroying The Game.

Below is a fan clip of Triple H walking into the set as he and Stephanie left to go to the backstage area:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bbs_mbQlnq-/