WWE NXT’s Je’Von Evans has impressed plenty of people during his run so far, and now he has the backing of Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman. During the latest episode of WWE NXT, Waltman approached Evans and spoke about his 1-2-3 Kid victory over Razor Roman, which took place at the same age Evans is now. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer gave him a ton of kudos while proclaiming how much he believes in him.

Waltman is just the latest name to throw their support behind the Young OG. Last month, WWE NXT arrived in the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, where Rob Van Dam shared his support for Evans. The former WWE/ECW World Champion stood in Evans’ corner for his match with Wes Lee and raised his hand afterward.

Eric Bischoff’s WWE NXT Debut Sets The Stage For Deadline

Evans signed with WWE in November 2023 after making a name for himself as Jay Malachi on the independent scene, and has received quite the push already. A video package hyping Evans debut would play at NXT Stand & Deliver, arguably the brand’s biggest event of the year, back in April.

Evans has already challenged for the NXT and NXT Tag Team Championships, as well as the NXT Heritage Cup. Not confined to the silver brand, Evans has also been in the hunt for the WWE Speed Championship, earning a spot in a tournament finals in August before losing to Pete Dunne.

Expectations are high for the 20-year-old Evans, who shared the ring with Randy Orton in October in only the Viper’s second match in NXT to date. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on the Young OG who continues to impress each week in WWE NXT.

Few things excite wrestling fans more than when a WWE Superstar debuts a new theme song, often due to a dramatic change to their on-screen character. In 1998, Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman returned to WWE with a brand new theme that has held a secret for many fans of the two-time Hall of Famer until now.

The track, which borrows heavily from the D-Generation X theme, starts with some aggressive vocals that fans for years believed was the vocalist shouting ‘X-PAC!’ Thanks to Wrestling Bios though, fans are now learning, 26 years later, that the track instead starts with the phrase “Make Some Noise.”

This revelation has certainly taken many fans by surprise who believed that the opening line was X-Pac’s name.

X-Factor’s Theme Song

Make Some Noise isn’t the only notable theme that Waltman used during his time in WWE. After forming X-Factor, a group consisting of Waltman, Justin Credible, and Albert, the trio used What ‘Chu Lookin’ At? by Matthew ‘Uncle Kracker’ Shafer. The story goes that Shane McMahon approached Waltman and shared that the Red Hot Chilli Peppers would provide the X-Factor theme only for Waltman to refuse and request Uncle Kracker instead.

Whatever song he uses, Waltman continues to get an ovation anytime he appears for WWE. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on the DX/New World Order legend.

Legends pass away like regular humans, which is a hard reality to face. Sadly, the world lost a remarkable talent as Carl Weathers passed away recently. The pro wrestling world took notice as well.

Tributes For Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers died on Thursday at the age of 76. His family said in a statement that he “died peacefully in his sleep.” We do not know the cause of death yet, but the world is mourning this great loss.

Xavier Woods from WWE honored the late Carl Weathers, who recently passed away. Weathers’ portrayal of Apollo Creed in the Rocky franchise served as the inspiration for Woods’ TNA persona, Consequences Creed.

“Today one of my biggest inspirations died. Carl Weathers brought Apollo Creed to life and in doing so he inspired me to become something that helped me achieve my wildest dreams. You really never know what you just doing what you love does to inspire others. #Rip Carl Weathers”

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C23CYHmMHyc

Jesse Ventura shared the screen with Carl Weathers. He posted a photo of them together on the set of Predator, along with a touching tribute.

We lost an icon. Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. All my sympathies and love to his family. I loved working with him on Predator and then celebrating that film with him at various conventions in the ensuing years. Thank you, Carl.

We lost an icon. Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional, and a dear friend. All my sympathies and love to his family. I loved working with him on Predator and then celebrating that film with him at various conventions in the ensuing years.
Thank you, Carl. pic.twitter.com/29OJoe8qcu

— Jesse Ventura (@GovJVentura) February 2, 2024

Sean Waltman also paid his respects to the great man that the world lost this week. While posting an animate gif of Weathers playing Chubbs Peterson from Happy Gilmore, in the scene where he’s showing Happy that he got both hands back after his death, X-Pac wrote: “Thank you for everything.”

Thank you for everything.? #RIPCarlWeathers pic.twitter.com/wPIKOLD10J

— Sean Waltman (@TheRealXPac) February 2, 2024

Carl Weathers was a great actor, and he kicked down barriers for others with his fantastic career in entertainment. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

Our thoughts are with Carl Weathers’ family, friends, and fans at this time as they cope with losing such a talented man. RIP.

WWE Hall of Famer Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman won’t be competing in the upcoming Men’s Royal Rumble match, according to the man himself. 

The 2024 Royal Rumble will take place on January 27, from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The venue was once home to WWE’s Thunderdome. The show will be the 37th Royal Rumble event and the seventh to feature both a Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

Waltman Denies Royal Rumble Rumors

Earlier this month, it was rumored that Waltman would be competing in the Men’s Royal Rumble match. If so, the match will be Waltman’s first match in a WWE ring since a May 2002 edition of Monday Night Raw. On Twitter, however, the Hall of Famer downplayed the idea that he’ll be competing. 

I can still go at the drop of hat, at least for a few minutes. I can do all my kicks, except the one in the corner & I can do that again with a few weeks training. I'm at least month away from taking my shirt off in public, so zero chance I'll be in the Rumble.

— Sean Waltman (@TheRealXPac) January 12, 2024

Sean Waltman in the Royal Rumble

Waltman has competed in three Royal Rumble matches, with two being as X-Pac and one as the 1-2-3 Kid. Over these three appearances, Waltman has spent a total of 24:56 in the Royal Rumble match. His sole elimination came in the 2000 match where X-Pac, the #30 entrant, eliminated his former tag-team partner Kane. 

Waltman (as X-Pac) also competed in a special Corporation Vs. DX Royal Rumble on Raw in 1999. He lasted 4:10 before being eliminated by the Big Boss Man. 

Who’s In? 

While Waltman is denying involvement with this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble match, several names have been announced. Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Shinsuke Nakamura, Bobby Lashley, and Drew McIntyre have been announced for the Men’s match. Bayley, Nia Jax, Becky Lynch, and Bianca Belair have declared for the Women’s Royal Rumble match.

Waltman has been rumored to make a return in the Men’s Royal Rumble match, but he’s not the only one… 

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman has praised the Bloodline, calling Roman Reigns’ faction “up there” with the New World Order.

The influence of the NWO continues to be felt to this day, with groups including D-Generation X and the Bullet Club borrowing the iconic staple of ‘cool’ heels.

Coming together in late 2020, The Bloodline has been heralded as one of the best angles in wrestling today, thanks in part to the spectacular heel work of leader Roman Reigns.

“Right Up There”

Sean Waltman is no stranger to impressive groups, having been part of both DX and the NWO.

Speaking to TMZ, Waltman said that there are some comparisons between the NWO and Roman Reigns’ dominant faction.

“The Bloodline thing, I mean, it’s right up there [with the New World Order] as far as I am concerned quality-wise.”

Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman.

Waltman is hardly the first Hall of Famer to compare the two groups, with Eric Bischoff saying that the Bloodline is a better storyline than the New World Order.

Cracks in the Group

While the Bloodline may indeed be a force to be reckoned with, the group has shown serious cracks over the past month.

At WWE Royal Rumble 2023, Sami Zayn’s tenure with the group came to an end when he refused to attack Kevin Owens with a chair, and instead struck Reigns.

Jey Uso, who had been suspicious of Zayn for months before he was won over in late 2022, refused to attack Sami in response and has said he is out of the Bloodline as well.

At WWE Elimination Chamber, Jey again refused to attack the former Honorary Uce.

WWE Hall of Famer Sean X-Pac Waltman made a surprise appearance at The Wrld on GCW event from Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, New York.

Waltman appeared during the chaotic match between Matt Cardona and Joey Janela, which also saw appearances from Marko Stunt, Hornswoggle, Virgil and Brian Myers.

X-Pac would help Joey Janela after he was defeated by Cardona, who had major help from his tag team partner Brian Myers.

The WWE legend actually came down to the ring with the D-Generation X music blaring for the crowd in attendance, and both Janela and Waltman celebrated to end the segment.

X-Pac Appears in GCW

Here is the full card for The Wrld on GCW PPV event:

• GCW World Championship Match – Jon Moxley (c) vs. Homicide
• Lio Rush vs. Blake Christian
• Gringo Loco, Flamita & Arez vs. Bandido, ASF & Laredo Kid
• Jeff Jarrett vs. EFFY
• Allie Katch vs. Ruby Soho
• Joey Janela vs. Matt Cardona w/ Chelsea Green
• GCW Tag Team Championship Match – The Briscoes (c) vs TBA
• Grab The Brass Ring Ladder Match – Jordan Oliver vs. Jimmy Lloyd vs. Alex Colon vs. Lio Rush vs. PCO vs Tony Deppen
• PBR Kickoff Battle Royal (Kickoff Show)
• PBR Kickoff Scramble: Jack Cartwheel vs. Dante Leon vs. Grim Reefer vs. Ninja Mack vs. Nick Wayne vs. Alex Zayne (Kickoff Show)

The show is available to watch now via FITE TV for $14.99.

Sean Waltman, better known to WWE Attitude Era fans as X-Pac, is gearing up for an in-ring return.

Waltman appeared to be done with wrestling back in 2019. He teamed with Jushin “Thunder” Liger and Hurricane Helms to defeat Caleb Konley, Jake Manning, and Zane Riley. After the match, Waltman claimed to be done with in-ring work.

As we get ready to roll the calendar over to 2022, it appears Waltman, a WWE Hall of Famer, has had a change of heart. In fact, he’s getting back in ring shape.

X-Pac Opens The Door

During an appearance on WWE’s The Bump, X-Pac said that if WWE gives him a call, he’ll be ready to listen.

“I’m just gonna get in better and better shape. I’ll be ring-ready beginning of next year and in case my phone rings [I’m open].”

Waltman also listed some talented individuals on the WWE roster. He named a current champion and three NXT 2.0 wrestlers.

“I was mentioning Damian Priest but everyone already sees how great he is and how great he’s gonna be. Carmelo [Hayes] down at NXT, Xyon [Quinn]. I mean there’s a lot going on. Obviously Bron Breakker so yeah, the future is very bright.”

It appears Waltman already has a willing dance partner if he does end up making his WWE return. Ricochet threw down the challenge on Twitter.

Waltman hasn’t had a match under the WWE banner since 2002. He’s wrestled for the likes of TNA Wrestling and other promotions throughout the years.

Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Sean Waltman is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for the second time this spring. He was first inducted in 2019 as a member of DX and is also apart of the 2020 class with the NWO. The 48-year-old isn’t finished wrestling, however. He recently spoke to SI.com about potentially returning to in-ring action. If WWE isn’t interested in his return, Waltman said, there are other places putting on great wrestling too.

“I’d be psyched to have more matches in a WWE ring,” said Waltman. “If they’re not interested, there are a lot of other places putting on great matches too.”

“I didn’t leave this business on my terms,” Waltman continued. “I wasted a lot of years of my life wandering around in the darkness, but I’m grateful that I still have some time left. And the style has changed, which is good. The bumps are more meaningful than in my era, which is a difference, but they bump less. That extends your shelf life.”

Waltman continued to talk about if he thinks he can keep up with today’s younger wrestlers.

“I watch the product now and I think, if I had both knees under me, I could keep up with a lot of these guys. If people want me, I’ll do it, but I am also mindful of being an older guy taking up too much oxygen. That’s not what I want. If there is some room for me to have a few matches, that’s all I want.”

Pro Wrestling 4 Life

Waltman has a new podcast out as well. Replacing his older X-PAC 1-2-360 podcast is “Pro Wrestling 4 Life.”

WWE Hall of Famer and AfterBuzz TV podcast star Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman recently discussed the AEW debut of Sting.

The Icon Sting of course made his AEW debut this past week at the ‘Winter Is Coming’ episode of Dynamite. Whilst the appearance of Sting was shocking, fans are now wondering how the WCW legend will be used in All Elite Wrestling.

Sting’s last match took place in 2015, where he lost to Seth Rollins at WWE’s Night of Champions event. Sting suffered an injury during that match that meant his in-ring career was over…seemingly.

Sean Waltman on Sting

“We’re in the situation right now where there’s really not big crowds” Sean Waltman began on the 1-2-360 podcast. “Although it was kind of cool, they did have a bit of a crowd there. You could see the reaction on some of their faces when the Stinger came out, it was a big deal. It came off like a big deal.”

Waltman would then praise Sting personally, saying “it totally was a big deal for me. It made me happy. He’s [Sting] a great guy, he’s just the nicest classiest guy.”

• Kenny Omega Appears On Impact Wrestling, Promises Big Announcement

X-Pac would finish by saying that Sting was never going to get the right treatment during his past WWE run. “The thing is, is he was never going to get the treatment from WWE that his fans thought he deserved. And that he did deserve. He’s not a WWE icon.”

Do you agree with Sean Waltman? Do you think that Sting will get better treatment back on TNT with All Elite Wrestling? Let us know in the comments

WWE announced recently that the New World Order faction will be inducted into the Hall of Fame next year at WrestleMania. Four members of the NWO were chosen to represent the faction: Hollywood Hogan, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and Syxx Pac (Sean Waltman/X-Pac). One big omission from the group being inducted is Eric Bischoff, who played a large role both on-screen and off-screen concerning the NWO angle.

Waltman commented on Bischoff’s omission from the group being inducted recently on his “X-Pac 12 360” podcast.

“I think it’s crazy, I’m bummed out that Eric Bischoff is not in on this. I feel bad for that, I actually feel bad about that. It goes without saying,” Waltman said.

Waltman also spoke about several other former members of the New World Order he feels deserves credit.

“The Scott Nortons, the Buff Bagwells, NWO Sting, Mike Rotunda, Virgil, all those guys because everybody contributed something,” Waltman said. “I’d like for everyone – I want to shout out to all of them, they deserve it.”

Big Show/Giant was also mentioned as a key member of the NWO on the show.

Sean Waltman On NWO Memories

Waltman has been posting some of his favorite memories from his time in the NWO to his Twitter account.

On a recent episode of his podcast, X-Pac 12360, WWE Hall of Famer Sean “X-Pac” Waltman addressed why he thinks some NXT Superstars are reticent in joining the RAW or SmackDown rosters. 

“There are people that have just started, that don’t have any experience. People that have been around forever. There’s older people, younger people, there are a few people that are pushing 40 on the NXT roster,” Waltman stated. “So there’s going to be different mentalities. And there are some people that have military backgrounds, that have a different mentality because of that. So it depends on who you talk too.”

He noted how there are certain Superstars that are doing really well on the black-and-gold brand. Despite their success, however, Waltman added how there are still some who are motivated in joining WWE’s main roster.

Waltman also spoke about how money isn’t necessarily the primary motivating factor for most younger talent. He confessed that his generation has difficulty understanding this mentality. 

“[…] we all like money, and it’s a big driving force but money doesn’t spend very well if you’re not fn happy. And the younger generations are realizing that there are more important things. And people my age are scratching our heads going ‘wtf’, we don’t know how to deal with that, because you can’t hold things over somebody’s head.”

Waltman’s take on this situation comes off the back of Tommaso Ciampa’s recent comments. The former NXT Champion allegedly told WWE management that he would rather retire than join either RAW or SmackDown. 

H/T to Wrestlezone for the quotes.

WWE Hall of Famer Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman recently spoke about making a name for himself in pro wrestling despite being smaller compared to the majority of his fellow Superstars at the time. He stressed the importance for smaller wrestlers to do something different in order to stand out and make an impact during an episode of his podcast, X-Pac 1,2, 360.

Referencing the recent discussion surrounding All Elite Wrestling’s Marko Stunt, Waltman highlighted how people used to laugh at him for being smaller and leaner compared to his muscular opponents.

“The first time I got in the ring, I wrestled Ricky Rice. He’s built very well, I mean not huge but f’n built well. And I was totally pale, skinny af, and so everyone laughed, they were all laughing at me as I come to the ring,” Waltman stated. “So it took about a minute and then they were on their feet because I German-suplexed them, wrestled them, and then I dove out of the ring. No one had ever seen that kind of s**t.

He continued, “So, it didn’t take long. They took to me really quick, it was something different. Everyone else were these big jacked up guys, and to be honest with you, a lot of them had this sense of entitlement. That they were from Minnesota and they were jacked up on the gas, and that they were gonna get a phone call.”

Waltman admitted he used to have a chip on his shoulder and wanted to go an extra mile to bring “believability” into his matches. He wanted fans to look at him and think that, although he was skinny, he was also a “buzzsaw.”

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

Scott Hall recently joined friend, and former nWo stablemate, Sean Waltman on the latter’s podcast, X-Pac 12360.

The two discussed last week’s RAW Reunion special as Hall reflected on his favorite backstage moment.

“My favorite part of the whole experience was sitting in what they call ‘the legends lounge and just hearing the guys talk and laugh,” Hall said.

“I feel that the wrestling business today is so politically correct that even when the performers talk to each other, they’re real guarded with what they say. […] But in the Legend’s Lounge, a bunch of old-timers like us that came up in a different era when you could talk to a guy using colorful language. It didn’t mean you didn’t like them, it’s just how guys communicated. It’s really fun to hear,” he explained.

One of the former Superstars in attendance was “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. Hall commented on how, since Flair’s multiple health scares, it appears as though Ric looks at life differently.

“Being around Ric Flair these days—it’s always enjoyable, but these last few days—I am not putting words in his mouth but just my take on it: since he had that major health scare, he looks at life differently now.”

“It’s not like he didn’t enjoy life before, but he is completely cool with the point that it might end tomorrow, so I am going to enjoy every moment of every day. And when you’re around somebody like that, it’s kinda fun.”

Hall and Waltman also discussed wanting to put over younger WWE Superstars during their RAW Reunion segment—a wish that was supposedly overruled.

H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

It was recently reported that Ricochet was meant to be included during a key segment from this past Monday’s RAW Reunion featuring D-Generation X and nWo. Seth Rollins replaced Ricochet after it was revealed Ricochet was suffering from an elbow infection.

On an episode of Sean Waltman’s podcast, X-Pac 12360, the former Superstar discussed the segment with his nWo stablemate, Scott Hall.

Overruled

They addressed the issues some people have had off the back of the reunion show, as the Legends weren’t put into positions to help give current talent a chance to shine.

According to Waltman and Hall, that was the original purpose of their segment with Ricochet. The topic of “burying” the current roster was brought up, and they were, apparently, overruled.

“It was the perfect spot for him because we could’ve given the rub to him,” Scott said. “Yeah, you bunch of haters, it was gonna be Ricochet, and we were trying to elevate him!”

He explained that “What people don’t realize is that everybody in that room when it was presented to us said, ‘Well, geez. Kinda burying those guys.’ It was addressed and it was overruled.”

“We said it,” Waltman added. “It’s just like … what’re we gonna do? Say ‘No, we’re not gonna do it?'”

D-Generation X would come out to assist an outnumbered Seth Rollins against The OC. They would then be further supported by the arrival of nWo members Kevin Nash and Scott Hall.

H/T to Pro Wrestling Sheet for the transcription.

Sean Waltman recently shared his thoughts on the opening night of New Japan Pro Wrestling’s G1 Climax and named the wrestler he believes to be the “guy” to help propel their global expansion plans.

Speaking on his podcast X-PAC 12360, Waltman pointed to Will Ospreay as the individual that NJPW shoul push to help them grow and reach a wider audience. From his in-ring ability to his physical look, Waltman is clearly a fan of what Ospreay can bring to the table.

“As someone that’s specialty was that style of match, a David and Goliath match, I just thought it was done really well,” Waltman said. “Ospreay, I think he’s the best guy they have especially for the global expansion here in the States. You know, a blond-haired f*****g kid with blue eyes. Good looking f****r, too. His gears are all on point – I was hoping he would win. Lance [Archer] did great though, I was really happy for Lance. I hope they use Lance more moving forward. I hope they use him better.”

The G1 Climax continues on July 13th with the opening night of B Block action. Ospreay will be competing in a tag team match alongside Young Lion, Yuya Uemura, and an injured Kota Ibushi. They will face off against Los Ingobernables de Japon members BUSHI, EVIL, and SANADA.

Sean Waltman recently made a bold prediction on his podcast, X-Pac 1, 2, 360. He revealed that he believes it’s only a matter of time until former WWE Superstar, CM Punk, returns to pro wrestling. Not only that, but it won’t be WWE that he returns to.

Instead, Walkman points to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as the most likely promotion that Punk will end up calling home.

“I promise you at some point, CM Punk will be back involved in wrestling”

– Sean Waltman

“I haven’t said it in a while because the subject hasn’t come up really as much, because he’s doubled down on, ‘I am never coming back to wrestling.’ I mean, he’s said that over and over again. And I just — history tells me that eventually he will return to wrestling. A lot of people in entertainment that mean it just as much as he does eventually come back. I’m talking about, look at musical acts for instance: The Eagles, ‘When hell freezes over,’ right? Legit. They meant it just as much as he does,” he explained.

“The Misfits, Glenn Danzig’s war […] Never gonna happen, never gonna reunite with Jerry Only and the rest of the Misfits. They’ve had several shows. It just goes to show you. And trust me, I know Glenn Danzig and like, no one is as stubborn as that guy. So, trust me. He will be back. I promise you at some point, CM Punk will be back involved in wrestling. And no one should go, ‘Oh, see, we told you!’ because it’s his life. And at the time, he means it. When he says, ‘I’m never coming back,’ he means it. It’s just that history shows that everyone else that meant it too ends up coming back. And I can honestly see him showing up in AEW. That could be like this huge surprise they’re waiting to drop with the announcement of a TV deal.”

CM Punk was once again on the minds of wrestling fans worldwide after he made a surprise appearance at an independent show. He would sneak into the ring under a mask and deliver a GTS during a match for an MKE event in Wisconsin last Friday.

Thanks to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.

Sean “X-Pac” Waltman believes El Hijo del Fantasma will end up in WWE. Fantasma is one of the wrestlers who has been granted a release from Lucha Underground. He worked there as King Cuerno.

According to Waltman, Fantasma has everything WWE looks for in a lucha star and would be a great fit for NXT. In fact, he encouraged WWE to sign him when the company asked about scouting Mexican wrestlers.

On the latest episode of his X-Pac 12360 podcast, Waltman said, “He was a guy that I talked to WWE about when they asked me. Canyon Ceman had asked me to take a trip down to Mexico after Alberto Del Rio left the first time.”

He continued, “Fantasma was one of the guys I told them about. He can speak English, he’s got a great look, and he fit most of the criteria they were looking for.”

Waltman says that Fantasma got as far as a tryout with WWE several years ago, but the company ended up not offering him a contract.

“He had a tryout down there, and he got a lot of heat for going in there and doing it, and then ended up not getting hired, for some technical reason,” says X-Pac.

Waltman believes that whatever the issue was that prevented Fantasma from signing years ago, would not be an issue today.

“It was some silly little thing, that, obviously, I think they would overlook now,” he says. “Maybe they changed their criteria, or maybe they just got less picky on certain things.”

• Update: WWE Reportedly Offers El Hijo del Fantasma A Contract

Batista vs Triple H is one of the hotter angles heading into WrestleMania. On this week’s X-Pac 12360, Sean “X-Pac” Waltman makes the case why neither Triple H nor Batista is likely to end up playing the villain in their feud.

Batista vs. Triple H: Who Is The Heel?

After laying out Ric Flair at his television birthday party, it would seem that the WWE creative team’s idea is for Batista to play the bad guy.

Not so fast, says Waltman.

“People who want to cheer Batista, there’s no reason why they can’t,” says Waltman.

“We’re not pigeonholing him in a way where if he’s not cheered, there’s a problem.”

Waltman recalls that Batista’s last run with the company saw him brought in as a babyface, right in the middle of Daniel Bryan’s ascent.

While fans were clamoring for Bryan to be positioned as the top good guy, they were instead treated to a Batista Royal Rumble win.

Ultimately, there was a change of direction, and Batista ended up playing the bad guy.

“Remember what happened last time?” Waltman asks. “And that’s not his f—ing fault. And I felt really bad for Dave.”

Reality-Based Batista vs. Triple H Feud

This go-around, Waltman says that by playing off some tension between the two that are based in reality, WWE will end up with a more realistic feud, not one where there needs to be a traditional good and bad guy.

“This is really smart,” Waltman says. “And if you don’t try to tell people who to cheer for, it will usually work out okay.”

“Triple H is a human being. That’s his character,” says Waltman. “The feud is a personal beef. There’s no total good guy, total bad guy.”

“Imagine that. It’s kind of like in real life… It’s always shades of gray in relationships.”

Regardless of the storytelling device being used, X-Pac says that he thinks WWE hit a home run, and he looks forward to Batista vs. Triple H.

“It’s a very nice way of doing it,” says Waltman. “It’s a really smart way of using Dave [Batista].”

Check out this week’s X-Pac 12360 below.

This transcript has been edited for clarity. When referencing this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. 

Do you agree? Does there need to be a traditional babyface/heel dynamic in Batista vs. Triple H?

It was announced earlier this week that X-Pac would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year as a member of D-Generation X. On his podcast, X-Pac 12360, the the star opens up on what it means to him to be inducted.

X-Pac also discusses his feelings on being inducted as part of a group rather than being honored individually. He also gave his take on the controversy surrounding Chyna and the Hall of Fame.

X-Pac Hall Of Fame Call

X-Pac says that he learned of his induction through a phone call from WWE’s head of talent relations, Mark Carrano.

He says that he recently renewed his WWE Legends contract, but did not see that as a hint that his induction was forthcoming.

“It kind of made me assume it was just because of everything going on with AEW,” X-Pac says of his contract renewal.

“I never really connected it to a Hall of Fame thing.”

X-Pac On Being Inducted As Part Of A Group

Although X-Pac made his feeling clear earlier this week on Twitter, he again says on his show that he is happy to go in as part of DX.

“I could give two sh-ts about going in on my own,” he says.

https://twitter.com/TheRealXPac/status/1097976050905038848

“If you ask me what my choice is, go in on my own, or go in with the people I had the greatest time in my life with, I’m going to pick going in with them every single time you ask me.”

X-Pac Calls Chyna Being Inducted “A Win”

Chyna’s inclusion with DX in this year’s induction was considered by some to be WWE doing the bare minimum in honoring her. There are many fans, and some in the industry, who believe that anything short of a solo induction for Chyna is not good enough.

X-Pac sees the matter differently.

“Obviously she is worthy of being inducted by herself,” says X-Pac. “For a lot of people, this wasn’t good enough.”

“I would encourage them to take the win. A win doesn’t always come exactly how you want it to, but it’s a win none the less,” X-Pac says.

X-Pac Says Chyna Getting In WWE Hall of Fame with DX 'Is a Win' https://t.co/pfwrk0Yq6B

— TMZ (@TMZ) February 19, 2019

X-Pac Hall Of Fame Worthy?

As to whether he feels worthy of induction, X-Pac allows that he understands his contributions to the wrestling industry, but was still caught off guard.

“It’s not that I don’t feel worthy, because I do understand the things I’ve done in the industry and in my career and all that, but I’m just blown away by all of it,” X-Pac says.

After a history of issues related to addiction, X-Pac says he is grateful to get to experience his induction.

“I’ve done things in my career, accomplishments, DX, nWo, being in The Kliq and all that. You go, okay, eventually that induction will happen, but I wasn’t sure I would still be around for it to be honest with you,” X-Pac says. “Not everyone is going to make it up to that stage.”

“My children are going to come see me inducted, and that’s really cool.”

You can hear X-Pac’s entire discussion on X-Pac 12360. The full episode can be found below.

When using this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. This transcript has been edited for clarity.

Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Chyna, Road Dogg, Billy Gunn and X-Pac will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year. All 6 will be inducted as members of the legendary DX faction. Two versions will be celebrated, the original and the “DX Army” version.

ESPN broke the story earlier today.

“I think it’s the most meaningful for us all to go in together and to be recognized together,” Tripe H told ESPN. “Because I think both groups were [just] as impactful.”

Triple H would continue to tell ESPN about how the faction formed.

“It’s a funny thing, because DX was something that, before Kevin [Nash] and Scott [Hall] left, at the time we all talked about using ‘The Kliq’ as it was — kind of morphing that into television, since it was so out there anyways,” said Levesque. “But things worked out the way they did — they left, and the timing was right.”

He mentioned Chyna’s involvement in the faction to ESPN as well.

“Shawn and I still wanted to do it. Vince saw the value in it, I guess, and finally let us go at it,” Levesque continued. “By that point in time I was looking for a heater, and we had brought Chyna.”

• New Video Shows How Much Chyna Missed Her Wrestling Family

Triple H Says Chyna Deserves To Be In The WWE Hall of Fame

Triple H also stated his belief Chyna deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and addressed previous statements he made on the matter.

“Look, people believe what they want to believe. When I said a few years ago on the Austin podcast, or show, or whatever you want to call it, there’s complexities around it,” said Triple H. “But absolutely, definitely deserves to be in there. It’d be tough to pick a female that was more impactful on the business. She did something that was completely so out of left field that it wasn’t even being considered when we first brought it up for her to come in. It wasn’t even a consideration… it wasn’t an easy thing, and against all odds she did all of that.”

He even continued to say Chyna likely should go into the Hall of Fame as an individual as well.

“From that standpoint, absolutely 100 percent deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, and should probably be more than once — as a group, but individually as well,” Levesque continued. “There’s more complexity to that than meets the eye, but here we are. I’m just happy that it’s here. I’m happy for her family, the people that she was close to, that hopefully this is super meaningful to them. I know it would be to her. It’s a great thing — very deserving.”

You can read the full interview with Triple H here.

Sean Waltman is known for speaking his mind, and this week’s X-Pac 12360 illustrates that fact. The former WWE star took the company to task for a promo segment from Monday’s Raw show.

Raw this week featured a promo battle between Smackdown head writer Road Dogg and Elias, followed by a match between the latter and Jeff Jarrett.

In his promo, Elias made an insider reference to Road Dogg tanking Smackdown’s ratings, which was likely designed to get a reaction from fans aware of Road Dogg’s backstage role.

Waltman was critical of the scripting of Elias’s promo and held nothing back as he gave his take.

Sean Waltman On Elias’ Promo From RAW

“Speaking of the Elias, Road Dogg, Jeff Jarrett ting, the one thing I could have done without was them going ‘Oh, what are you doing here Road Dogg, shouldn’t you be tanking Smackdown’s ratings'”, said Waltman.

“How does that help anything? How is that anything other than inside baseball, let’s have a few little chuckles for the inside baseball team here?”

“It’s bulls–t.”

Much was made of Smackdown’s post-Royal Rumble episode’s flat rating, and Waltman explains why that might be.

“At Survivor Series, all the Smackdown vs. Raw matches, Smackdown got obliterated,” Waltman said.

“So Smackdown has to deal with that, with all their guys getting their asses handed to them. And then after the Royal Rumble, you take Smackdown’s post-Rumble ratings bump, by putting your top star, Becky Lynch, on f—ing Raw the night before.”

“Gee, I wonder why Smackdown didn’t get their post-Rumble bump? Because you took it and gave it to Raw,” explained Waltman.

You can hear Waltman’s thoughts in context below.

When referencing this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. This transcript has been edited for clarity. 

Do you agree with X-Pac on the Raw promo segment? Do you agree with his take on Smackdown’s positioning? 

The wrestling world is still reacting to Dean Ambrose’s decision to leave WWE once WrestleMania 35 has passed. Despite the money WWE was offering, Ambrose was reportedly not interested, instead wanting to explore new avenues and opportunities. Since the news broke, many within the industry have offered their thoughts on Ambrose’s decision.

One such individual is Sean “X-Pac” Waltman. Commenting on the Ambrose situation on his podcast, X-Pac 12360, Waltman would give his thoughts on not only Ambrose leaving WWE but also on Hideo Itami’s recent request, and granted, release.

Hitting The X-Factor

“You don’t abuse someone like that on their way out. You don’t shame them, or humiliate them because you want them to come back. It’s like the statement WWE made. A lot of people say, ‘Oh, this must be a work because they never come out and say this type of thing,’ this is a different time and Dean Ambrose is not a talent that you go ‘we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors’ to because you want him back at some point.

You use him to do honors for other people on the way out but within reason. Dean Ambrose came back from his time off in shape, looking good. His whole game was on point, every aspect was on point. He’s either going to show up in AEW or he’s just gonna go out and find himself.”

Regarding Hideo’s release request, X-Pac would say the following:

“I think around the time that he signed with WWE, no one had more of a buzz in wrestling than KETNA. […] this guy is pound for pound the best in the world. That’s the kind of talk you heard about. I am just thinking [about] how he’s so great of a performer, everyone likes him too, you don’t hear anything bad about him, behind the scenes or any other matter. Just what a string of bad luck for him.”

H/T to WrestleZone.com for the transcription.

Sean “X-Pac” Waltman revealed his choices for the best matches of 2018 on a recent episode of X-Pac 12360.

Waltman selected a match under the WWE banner, as well as a bout from the biggest independent show of the year, and his choices may raise eyebrows.

For his WWE choice, Waltman selected a contest from the most recent NXT TakeOver event, a show that Waltman watched the majority of from the gorilla position backstage.

“Maybe because it’s fresh on my mind, but Johnny Gargano vs. Aleister Black, in WWE.”

As for his non-WWE choice, Waltman went with an instant classic from “All In”.

“I can also tell you, Marty Scurll and Kazuchika Okada from All In,” Waltman said. “An amazing match.”

With most major promotions having their own streaming services, and with WWE churning out so much content, Waltman admits that his choices were just two of many valid selections that fans can readily access.

“In 2018, going into 2019, there are so many great matches out there, so many guys and ladies for people to like,” Waltman said.

Waltman went on to answer questions on a wide range of subjects on the special Q & A episode of X-Pac 12360. The entire episode is available below.

What are your picks for best matches of 2018?

Recently, former WWE Champion Kane joined ex-Tag Team partner Sean “X-Pac” Waltman’s podcast, “X-Pac 12360.” The pair reminisced about their days teaming together in the late ’90s, which included two WWE Tag Team Championship runs. Kane debuted in WWE back in October of 1997. He interfered in the first-ever Hell In A Cell (HIAC) match at the Badd Blood: In Your House pay-per-view (PPV).

Kane hit his storyline brother, The Undertaker, with a Tombstone, allowing Shawn Michaels to win the match. Over the next few years, Kane’s character was portrayed as a silent monster with little personality other than evil. However, that all began to change when he aligned himself with D-Generation X’s X-Pac in the late ’90s. Kane slowly started to come out of his shell and became more relatable to WWE audiences.

He even had an on-screen companion in Tori. Kane said that his run with X-Pac really “humanized” the Kane character:

“It was great. It helped me out tremendously. Because up until that point Kane had just been like a emotionless monster and what that did for me, our tag team, was it really helped round out my character because it showed that Kane has feelings and all that stuff which I never had before.

“It humanized me enough that people could relate much better, but all that stuff it really helped my character in, in my career. And all the stuff we got to do man, it was a blast, and like you said a lot of times when you have tag teams that are bookends having something that contrasted so much and was so unique and we can have great matches with anybody.”

What do you make of Kane’s comments regarding how teaming with X-Pac “humanized” his character?

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

News broke on Monday of WWE signing WALTER to be a part of the NXT brand in some form, likely first in NXT UK, and later in the likelihood that NXT Germany is established.

On this week’s X-Pac 12360, Sean Waltman gave his take on WWE signing WALTER, and specifically what having him in the locker room will mean.

“Walter is a hell of a commodity, the type of guy you want in your locker room,” Waltman said. “Not a bunch of guys who act like Walter.”

Waltman is likely referring to someone with WALTER’s natural aura and presence, something I can attest to having seen him perform live at an EVOLVE show in 2017.

WALTER has reportedly expressed no interest in joining Raw or Smackdown. Waltman sees this as the true expression of an independent contractor.

“Apparently it sounds like he knows what he wants,” Waltman said. “It’s not like he was begging to go anywhere. The buyers were coming.”

“It’s like a seller’s market, sort of, when there’s something really good to sell,” Waltman continued.

The full episode of X-Pac 12360 can be found below. When referencing this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity.