SEScoops

Author: Bishal Roy

  • John Cena Revives Hilarious Alter-Ego \’Juan Cena\’ In Mexico

    John Cena recently embraced Mexican culture and brought back his iconic \’Juan Cena\’ gimmick.

    The 17-time World Champion made an appearance at CCXP Mexico. During a conversation, the host gave John Cena a Lucha Libre mask and asked if he would bring back Juan Cena.

    Initially, Cena laughed it out and thanked them for the Lucha Libre mask. He said that he was uncertain whether fans want him to wear it. He teased fans for sometime and eventually wore the mask. John Cena then hyped up the crowd before saying that wearing the mask made him feel like a different person.

    Cena then told fans that they might remember a WWE character named Juan Cena, who was a masked wrestler.

    Origins of Juan Cena

    John Cena had introduced his masked persona, Juan Cena during his feud with The Nexus back in 2010. After Wade Barrett \”fired\” Cena, he had a brief run as a luchador. Juan Cena claimed to be a distant cousin of John Cena, wearing a purple mask and made non-televised appearances.

    Juan Cena would make his final appearance at a house show and ensured that Wade Barrett never become a world champion by involving himself in a three way match featuring then WWE Champion The Miz. Though Juan Cena never made it to television, it remains one of the most hilarious storylines in WWE.

  • Lyra Valkyria Open to Major Stipulation Match Against Becky Lynch: \’How good would that be\’

    WWE Women\’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria is open to inflict more pain on her former mentor Becky Lynch.

    Valkyria is already 2-0 against \’The Man\’ but their heated rivalry seems to be far from over. The first-ever WWE Women\’s Intercontinenal Champ was betrayed by her mentor Becky Lynch during the ‘Raw After WrestleMania 41.’ Lynch had attacked Valkyria after the pair lost the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships. They went on to face each other at WWE Backlash PLE where Lyra Valkyria prevailed.

    Speaking with Dublin Live, Lyra Valkyria was asked where this feud is heading, and where she draws the line. The 28-year-old wrestler doesn\’t seem to stop anytime soon. She said:

    “Oh, no, there is no line. Really. I\’ve kicked Becky in the head a lot of times, but she still doesn\’t seem to have gotten the message. I\’ve now beaten her twice. So, the next thing to do is… I suppose I could beat her with some weaponry.”

    As WWE is heading to Dublin for WWE SmackDown in August, Lyra was pitched about possibly facing Becky Lynch in a Dublin Street Fight match and she replied:

    “How good would that be? It\’s Smackdown that\’s coming to Dublin on August 22 [Lyra is part of the Raw lineup] but I really hope I get to be a part of that one. You know, it\’s the first televised event coming live from Ireland. I\’d love to be a part of it!”

    Lyra Valkyria has been on a meteoric rise and she has come a long way. It is needless to mention that she thrives on the constant challenges, but her feud with Becky Lynch has given a massive boost to her career. Lyra Valkyria has showcased her incredible in-ring skills and she has brought out her best with the mic in exchanges with \’The Man.\’

    WWE SmackDown will take place in Dublin on August 22nd and it will mark the first-ever televised SmackDown to emanate from Dublin. We will have to wait and see if the street fight takes place at the show. But before that, the Irish brawlers will go head to head for the title at WWE Money In The Bank on June 7th.

  • Backstage Plans Behind Bronson Reed’s Alliance With Seth Rollins

    Bronson Reed shocked fans with his return at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event when he joined forces with Seth Rollins, Paul Heyman and Bron Breakker. Some details have now emerged regarding the reason behind aligning with the group.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reflected on Bron Breakker joining Seth Rollins’ faction. He then highlighted the fact that Bronson Reed joining Rollins and co. adds a dimension to the group and makes it stronger.

    Meltzer also reckoned that Bron Breakker is being built as a future WrestleMania main eventer and they would want to protect him. So, eventually when the group takes a loss, Bronson Reed could be the one. He explained:

    “Yeah. I think it adds a dimension, and it makes the group even—it makes them even more of a strong group because also, the other thing with Bronson being there is that, you know, when you have the matches where they have to lose—and they probably won’t be doing much losing early on—but when you have those matches, you don’t have to beat Bron Breakker, who, you know, is obviously someone they have as a WrestleMania main eventer, whereas Bronson Reed is not going to be a WrestleMania main eventer. But, you know, I mean, he’s—he’s very good. He’s very good in his role.”

    Reed had been on the shelf after sustaining an injury at Survivor Series: WarGames last year. Bronson returned during the tag-team match as CM Punk & Sami Zayn battled Seth Rollins & Bron Breakker. In the final moments of the match, Reed came out of nowhere and sent Punk through the barricade.

    Sami Zayn was outnumbered before Breakker pinned him for the win. Following the match, Breakker and Reed had a staredown before Rollins hugged him. Reed and Breakker then shook hands. Reed hit a Tsunami on Punk to end the segment.

  • Lucha Libre Takes Over Dodger Stadium For Mexican Heritage Night Celebration

    The spectacular pro wrestling style, Lucha Libre was on display recently at the iconic Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

    As part of the team\’s Mexican Heritage Night celebration, the event was stacked with live matches on the field and fans were treated with a dose of Mexican culture.

    One of the matches that took place was a tag team match featuring The Wolf Zaddies (Bad Dude Tito & Che Cabrera) against Mariachi Montaña (Jose Calamaco & Ro Montaña).

    A handful of \”enmascarado\” or masked wrestlers, a common tradition in Mexican lucha libre, competed at the event. It was further advertised that former WWE star Chavo Guerrero would throw the ceremonial first pitch.

    Speaking about lucha libre, CMLL has also partnered with Airbnb which gives fans a chance to participate in a unique three-hour lucha libre training session in Mexico.

    It is hosted by 52-year-old veteran Retro and the experience enables guests to step into the ring and learn the ropes. the training experience costs $216 per person and takes place at the famous, Arena Mexico in Mexico City.

    Meanwhile, during WrestleMania 41 weekend, WWE also announced its acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA. The historic acquisition has significantly changed the landscape of Mexican pro wrestling.

    WWE also revealed a new crossover event: Worlds Collide, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. The joint event will feature wrestlers from both AAA and WWE.

  • WWE Legend Lilian Garcia Returning At Saturday Night\’s Main Event: \’I’m back on the mic\’

    Legendary ring announcer Lilian Garcia recently let her fans know that she is set to return at WWE Saturday Night\’s Main Event on May 24th.

    Taking to Instagram, Garcia revealed that she will back on mic in front of fans:

    \”9 more days until I’m back on the mic inside a wrestling ring in front of the best fans in the world!\”

    Lilian Garcia previously returned to the company last year after Samantha Irvin departed the company. She worked on WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown until March before finishing up with the company full-time after the SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain.

    During an interview with Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Lilian Garcia stated that her initial return to WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown led to her involvement in Saturday Night\’s Main Event. She loves what she does and said:

    \”But what was so beautiful that has evolved from it is that even though I’m not going to do the full-time SmackDown announcer anymore, they said, ‘You know what? We love having you [be a] part of this. We want to extend. We want you to Saturday Night’s Main Event. We think you’re a perfect fit for that.’

    \”I love it, I get to wear gowns for that, we dress up a little bit…Then they’re like, look, we’ve got a lot of other shows that we know we’re in talks right now on what we can do. So I’m like, whatever you guys need. Again, whatever you need. Just put me in coach, I’m here.\”

    Saturday Night\’s Main Event will emanate from the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. A couple of matches have been announced for the event. Jey Uso will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Logan Paul, while CM Punk and Sami Zayn will join forces to face Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker.

  • Joe Hendry Returns Home to Support Hearts at Tynecastle

    Say his name and he appears. Well, TNA World Champion Joe Hendry recently showed up at the Edinburgh’s Tynecastle stadium on Wednesday, May 14th.

    Joe Hendry returned to his hometown and cheered on for Heart of Midlothian FC in their match against St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership. He appeared during half-time and came out to his iconic entrance music.

    Joe Hendry also joined in for an on-pitch interview and revealed that his family is a lifelong Hearts fans. The Scotsman then said that the Edinburgh-based club would win the big one, similar to his TNA title victory in January. Hendry had a great time watching the clash as Heart of Midlothian FC indeed won the game with 2-1 score.

    Hendry surprised fans last month when he turned up to answer Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41. Though he faced \’The Viper\’ in a losing effort, he had his WrestleMania moment. The appearance in Edinburgh marks his first apperance in his hometown after WrestleMania 41.

    In March, he also competed in the city for Discovery Wrestling’s Year 10 event. At the show, he defeated Man Like DeReiss. He is currently in a feud with NXT\’s Trick Williams and has been making regular appearances on NXT alongside TNA Wrestling.

  • Motor City Machine Guns On TLC Match Getting Snubbed From WrestleMania 41: \’It showed that the fans cared\’

    Former WWE Tag Team Champions Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin & Alex Shelley) recently opened up on their fans who were disappointed after their match was snubbed from WrestleMania 41 lineup.

    Motor City Machine Guns, one of the legendary tag teams in the business had their tandem wrestling prowess on display during SmackDown after WrestleMania 41. They headlined the show as they challenged WWE tag team champions the Street Profits and #DIY in a memorable TLC match.

    The match featured some epic moments and it was arguable a WrestleMania-worthy match. Las Vegas crowd were thrilled when it was announced the night before WrestleMania.

    However, they were left disappointed as the match was scheduled for the following week. WWE\’s decision to not book the match for \’The Grandest Stage of Them All\’ left fans frustrated. Speaking with CBS Sports, Motor City Machine Guns recalled the fan reaction that night. Sabin said:

    \”To see the response from the fans and everyone after the match, I think it worked out how it was meant to work out. I\’m very happy with everything, and I wouldn\’t change a thing.\”

    Shelley added:

    \”It\’s one ear and out the other. It\’s nice we got these accolades, but at the same time, those are done with and don\’t benefit us going forward. We need to stay grounded, stay humble and work even harder because if there\’s another one, you better believe we\’ll want to top it.\”

    Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford successfully defended their WWE Tag Team Championships on WWE SmackDown in a brutal TLC match on April 25th. The Streets Profits pushed to their limits going up against two of the most reputed tag teams, #DIY and the Motor City Machine Guns. The champs also labeled WWE\’s decision a \’mistake\’ after they decided to keep the match off WrestleMania 41 card.

    Street Profits: TLC Match Proved WrestleMania Snub Was A Mistake

  • Saraya Discusses AEW Departure, Says Door Remains Open For Return

    Former AEW star Saraya recently revealed that her departure from AEW was amicable and that the door remains open for her potential return in the future.

    The former AEW Women’s Champion recently departed AEW. Since then talks of a potential return to WWE has been on the cards. While she hasn\’t joined any pro wrestling promotion yet, she doesn\’t rule out a return to AEW in the future as well.

    During an appearance on Women\’s Wrestling Talk, Saraya discussed her departure from AEW and stated that Tony Khan was supportive of her decision. She then revealed that Khan has left the door open for a possible comeback. Saraya revealed:

    \”I was like, alright, time for me to bow out. Tony was amazing with it. It ended up being mutual, which is great. He was like, let\’s do it. Like- that\’s perfectly fine. He was extremely supportive about my my future endeavors and he encouraged me and the door was left open, you know, which is great, and yeah, it was just a lot of brainstorming on my time off where I was like, okay, now it\’s time for me to bow out gracefully, I guess.\”

    Saraya is currently a free agent in the market and on multiple occasions, she has teased her possible comeback to WWE. She had previously stated that she wanted to tick-off a couple of things off her bucket list.

  • WWE Draft 2025 Could Be Right Around the Corner

    There has been an update regarding the date for this year\’s WWE Draft which shakes up the rosters.

    A couple of months back, it was reported that WWE had chalked out plans for this year’s WWE Draft. However, the company hasn’t officially announced the shake-up.

    WWE usually holds a Draft annually where WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown rosters are shuffled and NXT wrestlers are called-up to the main roster. An update has emerged on the WWE Draft. It has come to light that the company is still planning and a potential date has been noted.

    Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Radio reported that the draft is “very likely” to happen at the end of May. It could potentially take place over the weekend in Tampa, Florida.

    Alvarez said:

    “For whatever reason, Giulia and Roxanne are still considered NXT talents. Roxanne has been a regular on the main roster since Royal Rumble; she should be petitioning for main roster back pay. She’s been here so often. But I was told it’s not set in stone, but very likely at the end of this month, when they’re doing that series of dates in Tampa, it’s very likely there might be a draft on that weekend or that week, which would probably mean that some people are being called up.”

    WWE had announced the weekend takeover at Yuengling Center in Tampa, FL. It will start on May 24th as Saturday Night’s Main Event takes places, followed by NXT Battleground the next night. Yuengling Center will also host WWE Raw and NXT the following Monday and Tuesday respectively.

    In the past, WWE Draft started on WWE SmackDown and continued on WWE Raw. If WWE decides to follow the tradition, this year it could kick off on May 23rd on the blue brand and continue to the red brand on May 26th.

  • Blair Davenport Talks Possible AEW Return, Open to Facing Toni Storm: \’We’re Hoping It’s Going to Happen\’

    Former WWE star Blair Davenport (real name Bea Priestley) is not ruling out a potential return to All Elite Wrestling and facing AEW Womens\’s World Champion Toni Storm.

    Davenport\’s WWE non-compete clause has now expired which means she could be signed by any promotion including AEW. Speaking to Tom Campbell of Cultaholic, Blair Davenport revealed that she remains close with AEW Women\’s World Champion Toni Storm and values their friendship.

    While she is open to having conversations about her next move, she also wants to follow her own path. Blair Davenport also expressed her desire to take on projects she genuinely enjoys rather than being obligated to perform:

    “Definitely now with Toni (Storm), everyone knows how close me and Toni are. We’re like sisters at this point. She lives in Orlando as well, we see each other fairly often. But I’m also along the lines of I’m definitely open to having conversations but I do also want a little bit of time just to do my own thing because I’ve just come out of a contract where it’s like you have an app. If you’ve got a dot on this day, you have to be there, you have to show up.

    “If you’re sore from the gym or you’ve had a hard match and they book you the next day, you can’t say you don’t feel like it. You have to go do it even when you don’t feel 100 per cent or you don’t particularly feel wanting to do it. You just have to.”

    Blair Davenport recalled being cooperative during her time in WWE but now she wants the freedom to choose her matches, especially the ones she is excited about. The former NXT star also said that she was open to sharing the ring with Toni Storm:

    “So I kind of just want to be able to take things that I want to do and do it because I’m looking forward to it or enjoying it rather than doing it because someone else is telling me to. Even WWE, I was very happy like, ‘Tell me what to do. I’m more than happy to do whatever.’ I’m not one of those people who is like, ‘Oh, I don’t want to lose.\’” I’m just generally excited, say if there’s an opponent who I really want to wrestle that I can push that and get excited to wrestle someone who I’ve always wanted to and never had the chance to, or have another match with someone who I really enjoyed wrestling in the past.

    “I’m looking forward to taking on my own stuff for a little bit and then maybe after I’ve done that, maybe I’ll push a little bit harder…But I know Toni really wants to wrestle me, so we’re hoping it’s going to happen someday.”

    Toni Storm and Blair Davenport previously fought each other in a singles match in June 2018 at Frontline’s Build Me An Empire in London, England. They could once again share the ring if Davenport decides to sign with AEW.

    Blair Davenport had previously signed with AEW in January 2019 but she was released in 2020 after being unable to travel to the US during the pandemic. She went on to ink a deal with WWE in June 2021, joining NXT UK. The following year she joined NXT before being called-up to the main roster in June last year. However, she was released from the company earlier this year.

  • CM Punk Opens Up On John Cena’s Farewell Tour: \’We’re on the Same Road\’

    CM Punk is eager to be a part of the Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena\’s farewell tour but whether to fight with him or against him, that is the question.

    John Cena is currently on the final run of his illustrious career. While he currently holds the top prize of the company, he is still set to hang up his wrestling boots by the end of this year. Cena, who recently turned heel, has said that he’ll retire as the “Last Real Champion.” While it has opened the doors to dream matches, Cena could be facing one of his rivals, CM Punk.

    CM Punk is one Cena’s greatest rivals. They have had storied rivalry back in the day and it could be reignited. However, Punk is also ready to team up with John Cena is the situation arises.

    Speaking to Tudum by Netflix, Punk highlighted being on a similar path as Cena. He stated that Cena deserves more credit for putting WWE above himself. Punk said:

    “I think me and him are on the same road. We’re [both] closer to the end of our career than we are to the start of it. He’s another guy who doesn’t like talking about himself too much. John Cena has never asked for anyone to give him any kind of credit, he always put the company before himself, always put others before himself — I think it’s time we give back, say thanks, pat him on the back.\”

    While CM Punk and John Cena have crossed paths during Royal Rumble 2025, they are yet to compete in a singles match. They were the final two superstars in the Elimination Chamber match before Cena tapped him out. While CM Punk has expressed his desire to be a part of Cena\’s farewell tour, he is not sure whether he will team up or fight him:

    \”I feel like it’s my duty to talk about him. Selfishly, I’d love to be a part of [Cena’s farewell tour] in any which way he possibly sees fit. He wants to tag with me, awesome. He wants to lock back up with me, fantastic. But as a fan, I’m just excited to be here to witness it all.”

    Speaking of rivals, John Cena will be competing against Randy Orton at WWE Backlash on Saturday, May 10th in St. Louis. This will mark his first title defense after winning record-breaking 17th championship at WrestleMania 41.

  • Damian Priest Hails Bad Bunny For Setting A New Standard as Celebrity Wrestler: \’Nobody Touches Him\’

    WWE star Damian Priest spoke highly of Grammy Award-winning artist and celebrity wrestler Bad Bunny for his impressive accomplishments inside the squared circle.

    Since making his WWE debut during the pandemic, the Puerto Rican rapper and singer has enjoyed one of the most remarkable runs in the company. Speaking on MLB Central, \’The Archer of Infamy\’ praised Bad Bunny for his performances in the ring. Damian Priest emphasized that while many celebrities come to WWE to promote their movies or music, Bad Bunny has \”set a new standard.\”

    Priest also expressed his surprise at seeing Bunny risk everything in a brutal Street Fight in front of the San Juan crowd, especially considering his accomplishments outside the ring. Damian Priest was visibly impressed by Bunny\’s passion for the sport. The former World Champion said:

    \”So celebrities come and go all the time in our business. You know, either you want to promote a song, a movie, whatever. Bad Bunny took it differently because he\’s a big fan. He put in the work training and everything and for me, a celebrity coming in and doing this style of match, a street fight and it was Backlash. So it\’s anniversary time. It\’s incredible to see somebody willing to risk, you know, he has a career like that. He\’s obviously very successful at… But for his fans, for our fans and he showed us respect and everything.\”

    \”To me, when it comes to celebrities, nobody touches him. He set a new standard. If anything, for celebrities to come in and want to be a part of our world, you gotta look at what Bad Bunny was willing to do — and willing to take.\”

    Bad Bunny has competed in a handful of matches in WWE, but his most memorable performance against Damian Priest at WWE Backlash 2023 set a new benchmark for celebrity wrestlers. It marked the first time the music superstar competed in a singles match, and he completely stole the show.

    Bad Bunny previously held the now-defunct 24/7 Championship during his WWE tenure. He also partnered with Damian Priest at WrestleMania 37 and has competed in the men\’s Royal Rumble match.

    Damian Priest is scheduled to compete at this year\’s WWE Backlash where he will face Drew McIntyre, LA Knight, and Jacob Fatu in a fatal four-way match for the United States Championship.

    If you use any quotes from this article, please credit SEScoops for transcription.

  • Lyra Valkyria Thrives on WWE’s Constant Challenge: \’That’s What I Love About This\’

    WWE Women\’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria recently reflected on her whirlwind first year on WWE\’s main roster. She also opened up on the constant pressure and unpredictability of her journey.

    From winning the Women\’s NXT title to scripting history as the first-ever WWE Women\’s Intercontinental Champion, Valkyria has come a long way. While her journey on the main roster hasn\’t been the smoothest, she doesn\’t want to change anything.

    Lyra Valkyria has been on the main WWE roster for almost a full year. Her inspiring journey has featured some unexpected moments, twists and turns. Valkyria is also the only Women’s Intercontinental Champion to date which she won after defeating former WWE star Dakota Kai earlier this year.

    While speaking to SI The Takedown\’s Zach Heydorn in a new interview, Lyra Valkyria opened up on her journey in WWE. Valkyria stated that the main roster is quite different from NXT. She said that her head is always spinning:

    \”It\’s never going to be on straight. It\’s just always spinning.\”

    While she reached the Queen of the Ring finals and became the Women\’s IC champion, she still feels the hunger to achieve more. She has embraced the ever-changing nature of pro wrestling and she is always striving for growth:

    \”I can\’t say that I\’m absolutely thrilled with everything I\’ve done. Like, of course, who could imagine in my first year I\’d have been in the Queen of the Ring finals in Saudi Arabia. That was my first PLE with Raw. The first Intercontinental Women\’s Champion. I\’ve had some matches that I\’m very, very proud of — some very proud title defenses as well. So, I\’m very, very proud, and it\’s hard to feel like anything has ever gone wrong in my life. Because look where I am. I\’m very happy.

    \”As far as going forward, just naturally what we do, I\’m never going to feel like, \’yeah, I\’ve got it now. Yeah, I\’m great.\’ There\’s always going to be something that I\’m working on, or something I haven\’t done, and that\’s just the nature of of what this is like. The second you feel like you\’ve got it figured out, the board changes, and you have to figure something else out. That\’s what I love about this.\”

    Lyra Valkyria recently faced betrayal when her mentor Becky Lynch turned on her during the \’Raw After WrestleMania 41.\’ \’The Man\’ attacked Valkyria as the duo lost the WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships to Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.

    On last week\’s edition of Raw, Lynch took yet another cheap shot at Valkyria. The two Irish brawlers will face each other and the WWE Women\’s Intercontinental title will be up for grabs at this Saturday\’s WWE Backlash PLE.

    Becky Lynch is also set to call out Lyra Valkyria on tonight\’s edition of WWE Raw.

  • WWE SmackDown Returning to Two-Hour Format, Tentative Date Revealed

    WWE SmackDown is reportedly moving back to two-hour format and now an update has emerged regarding when the change in runtime of the show could happen.

    Earlier this year, an hour was added to WWE SmackDown runtime. While the company\’s flagship show WWE Raw on Netflix has met with positive reactions, fans feel that quality of SmackDown has degraded due to the additional hour.

    WWE SmackDown is currently a three-hour show. It was previously reported that an extra hour was added to the show as the USA Network didn’t have any programming for the 10-11 pm slot on Fridays and that the move would be temporary.

    Reports suggest that the show will go back to its previous shorter length. A date has been also discussed when the change could occur and Dave Meltzer says it could be in June.

    He has recently reported in Wrestling Observer Newsletter that while not a ‘hard date’, June 6 has been expected to be the date. He wrote:

    “There has been talk that SmackDown goes back to two hours on (June 6), but that is not a hard date. It was expected at the end of May would be the move back. Company sources say the date isn’t etched in stone but they expected it will be finalized this week.”

    WWE SmackDown currently airs on the USA Network in the United States and on Netflix internationally.

  • Shotzi Opens Up on Losing Herself and Why the \’New Ballsy Badass\’ Is Unstoppable

    WWE star Shotzi recently delivered a powerful promo outlining the struggles in her career.

    Taking to her social media account, she posted a video clip in which she cut a promo about her setbacks and how she transformed herself. She highlighted how she lost so much in her life. She said:

    “Have you ever lost so much that you start to wonder if you’re even real anymore? I called myself the Ballsy Badass because I was wild, reckless, chaotic. I lived for the danger—loved every second of it. That confidence and fearlessness… it was intoxicating. It’s why I loved being in the ring so much.

    But it felt like, in the blink of an eye, that feeling was gone. I lost. I lost people who meant everything to me. And I let that grief consume me. I let injuries make me feel worthless. And somewhere along the way, I lost myself. I wish I could stand here and tell you that I walked through the fire and rose from the ashes like a damn phoenix. But you know what? That’s not my story. I struggled—a lot. I fought through years of darkness.\”

    Shotzi revealed that self-doubt caused her to lose her fearless identity which she once embraced as \’Ballsy Badass.\’ However, Shotzi has managed to overcome the hindrances and never gave up.

    Unlike the typical redemption story which is often narrated in wrestling, Shotzi didn\’t have a triumphant arc. However, she has persevered through the years of struggle and criticism. She is not just back, she has evolved and gotten stronger than ever:

    \”But here’s where I’m going to give myself some credit: through all of that—every dark thought, every injury, every crippling criticism—I never quit. I never asked for time off, even when I was down to just a sliver of who I used to be. I held on. I held on, hoping that same carefree Ballsy Badass would come back. But you know what I realized? As I was rebuilding myself, I realized that Ballsy Badass? She’s gone. She’s gone, and she’s never coming back. And that’s okay.

    Because I redefined what it means to be the Ballsy Badass. It’s not just about being reckless or having brutal matches. It’s about having the guts to face your demons. It’s about standing tall, even when you feel like you’ve got nothing left. It’s about refusing to break—even when the world is telling you that you should. That takes bigger balls than anything I’ve ever done in the ring. Am I still wild? Yeah. A little unhinged? Sure. But now? Now I’m also unstoppable. The Ballsy Badass isn’t just back. She’s evolved. And this time—nothing, and I mean nothing—can shake me.”

    Shotzi recently returned to WWE TV at NXT Stand & Deliver. She had been on the shelf for months after suffering ACL injury . She has been associated with Tatum Paxley and Gigi Dolin in a faction that is known as, Chemical X. The former one-half of the NXT Women\’s Tag Team Champion is yet to compete inside the ring. Her televised last match took place in January when she battled Fallon Henley.

  • AAA CEO Details Sponsorship Struggles That Led to WWE Acquisition

    Dorian Joaquín Roldán Peña, CEO of Mexican pro wrestling promotion AAA, recently opened up about what led to the acquisition of AAA.

    The historic acquisition has significantly changed the landscape of Mexican professional wrestling. The announcement was made during the WrestleMania 41 Saturday Countdown show. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul \”Triple H\” Levesque was joined by Fillip Chairman Alberto Fasja, AAA\’s Marisela Peña and Dorian Roldán Peña, as well as WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio and AAA standout El Hijo Del Vikingo.

    WWE also revealed a new crossover event: Worlds Collide, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. The joint event will feature wrestlers from both AAA and WWE.

    During the Sports Summit, Dorian Joaquín Roldán Peña emphasized that competing against other forms of entertainment and sports industries in Mexico is particularly challenging. He further explained that securing sponsorships has become increasingly difficult.

    Peña noted that soccer generates substantial revenue in the country, making it difficult for AAA to compete against Liga MX, the Mexican National Team, and the soccer industry in general. He said:

    \”I went three weeks ago, it was a brand\’s turn, and I told that brand, \’Hey, I need money…\’ And no, the money is in football, the money is in the Super Bowl, the money is in whatever property is hot. You have to chip away at a lot of money.\”

    It has been speculated that the acquisition of AAA by WWE\’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings, was worth approximately $50 million, though exact figures remain undisclosed. The acquisition enables WWE to collaborate with a talented roster of luchadors, create exciting crossover matches, and further expand their international market presence.

  • British Bulldog’s Daughter Battles for Late Father’s Legacy in Hometown: \’They Are Ignoring Him Every Year\’

    Georgia, daughter late wrestling legend The British Bulldog (also known as Davey Boy Smith) is campaigning for her father to be honoured in his hometown, Wigan.

    Georgia has made calls for her late father to be acknowledged by Wigan Council. The British Bulldog, who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame 2021, was one of the biggest wrestling stars in the 90s. But his premature passing in 2002 at the age of 39, was a massive blow to the pro wrestling fraternity. His legacy remains intact but he is not honoured in the town.

    Calgary-born Georgia spoke to the Daily Star and said that she wants her father to be acknowledged in Wigan, where he was born and raised. She said:

    \”When you think of famous people from Wigan, my dad is number one in my eyes for what he did on a global stage. I think it\’s only right he is recognised in his hometown. He\’s been recognised by the WWE in their hall of fame, but his family in the UK couldn\’t be there because it was during Covid.\”

    Georgia has called on the council to honour Davey Boy Smith on its \’Walk of Fame\’, officially known as Believe Stars. The honor is given to the notable local heroes. However, the authority stated its walk of fame \’celebrates the contributions of living residents\’, indicating that Davey is not eligible. On the matter Georgia said:

    \”It\’s ridiculous in my opinion. Hollywood has a walk of fame and they give out posthumous stars, do I don\’t understand why Wigan can\’t.\”

    \’I\’d just like them to do something, rather than just ignoring him\’

    Though The British Bulldog was previously featured in an exhibition at town\’s museum, Georgia revealed that she had previously had a discussion with the council permanently celebrated his legacy. They include a blue plaque at his childhood house, but Georgia said she nominates her dad every year for one but gets turned down.

    She added:

    \”At this point, I\’d just like them to do something, rather than just ignoring him every year. What about a blue plaque on the house he was born in? I don\’t understand what the hesitation is with that. They\’re just very difficult.\”

    A council spokesman said:

    \”Our walk of fame celebrates the contributions of living residents of Wigan Borough. While Davey Boy Smith does not meet the criteria to be considered for a star, there are alternative ways to commemorate his memory, which we are happy to discuss with the family.\”

    The British Bulldog started his wrestling journey at a very young age in the north west of England when his father, Sid, did some building work for legendary trainer Ted Betley. He then moved to Canada where he worked for Stu Hart\’s famous Stampede Wrestling.

    During his time in Canada, he met his future wife and Stu\’s daughter Diana. The British Bulldog won the Intercontinental Championship, the European Championship twice, the Tag Team Championship twice, and the Hardcore Championship twice.

    The British Bulldog also won the memorable Battle Royal at the Albert Hall special showcase in 1991. He headlined WWE SummerSlam 1992 at the original Wembley Stadium where he defeated his brother-in-law and WWE Hall of Famer Bret \’The Hitman\’ Hart.

    With the win, he captured the coveted Intercontinental title in front of 82,000 fans and scripted one of the most historic moments in pro wrestling. He also held the European Championship twice, the Tag Team Championship twice, and the Hardcore Championship twice.

    If you wish to support Georgia, you can sign her petition here.

  • Jey Uso Talks Retirement: \’I Feel the Years Catching Up\’

    Jey Uso has recently confirmed that he has entered the latter stages of his career but he will still be around to perform for the next couple of years.

    During a recent interview on The Ringer Wrestling Show, Jey Uso, reflected on his illustrious pro wrestling career but highlighted that he is on the end of his in-ring journey. \’Main Event\’ Jey Uso, who will soon hit 40, said that age is catching up with him. He still feels strong and passionate about wrestling but he has also started to consider exploring other opportunities beyond the ring. Here is what he said:

    “I’m on the end of my career. I feel like I still have a couple years left. I still feel strong, but this is the first time I kind of felt the years are catching up on me. I think I’m getting older. I’ll be 40 in August. I love wrestling. Wrestling is everything. I’m just getting to the point where I want to venture out a little bit more.”

    Jey Uso started his WWE career as part of the tag team with his brother Jimmy Uso. They achieved significant success and won the tag-team titles eight times. He later transitioned to a singles star and won the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal and WWE Intercontinental title.

    Jey Uso\’s meteoric rise to the main event picture is certainly commendable. He shocked the world when he eliminated 16-time World Champion John Cena to win this year\’s Men\’s Royal Rumble match in February. He earned a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship against Gunther at WrestleMania 41. Jey is not headlining either of the nights, but he is fine with it as he is set to compete in the biggest match of his career at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

  • The IInspiration Returns To Tag-Team Action At Prestige Wrestling

    The IInspiration, comprising Cassie Lee and Jessie McKay recently had a reunion at Prestige Wrestling\’s \’Northing To Lose\’ event.

    Nearly after three years, Lee and McKay joined forces and competed inside the squared circle. They faced the team of Kylie Rae and Nicole Matthews in a winning effort.

    This marked McKay\’s first match since she and Lee teamed at IMPACT Rebellion 2022. Meanwhile, Lee has made several appearances over the years. However, she hasn\’t been full-time competitor since 2023. Lee worked a handful of matches for World Series Wrestling in Australia in 2023.

    The IInspiration, formerly known as IIconics in WWE, are former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. After working with WWE for six years, Lee and McKay were let go on April 15th, 2021.

    They debuted for TNA Wrestling six months later at Bound for Glory PPV. After joining the promotion, The IInspiration said the company “feels like home.” They also went on to capture the Knockouts Tag Team titles.

    During their hiatus, both Cassie Lee and Jessie McKay have become mothers. Cassie Lee & Shawn Spears have two boys and McKay and her husband welcomed their first son in 2023.

  • Becky Lynch’s WWE Return Stalled Over Creative Concerns

    Former WWE Women\’s Champion Becky Lynch has been away from WWE TV for quite some time and her rumored return was also delayed. Well, reports have emerged regarding the reason behind it.

    Speaking on The Hump, Sean Ross Sapp discussed Lynch\’s return plans and noted that creative plans were pitched for her a few months back. However, those plans didn\’t materialize.

    “There was creative pitched for her in January. It didn’t end up happening. I don’t know exactly what the creative was, but I know it wasn’t like a one-on-one match. I don’t know if it was a three-way, four-way, tag team—whatever it might’ve been.\”

    Sapp said that though \’The Man\’ has not been featured on WWE programming, she has been under WWE contract for at least four or five months. However, he noted that Becky Lynch hasn\’t shown interest in being part of uninspired or lazy storytelling. Sapp said:

    \”She’s been signed, she’s been under contract for months—at least four or five that I know of. But she hasn’t been brought to TV to do anything or anything like that. She’s very smart though. She knows what creates buzz. But she also doesn’t want lazy booking. I don’t think she wants that. She wants something inspired.”

    While fans were expecting Becky Lynch to return around WrestleMania, she cleared the air regarding her pro wrestling future. During her appearance as Guest Monologist at the Ultimate Improv Show on April 11th, Lynch stated:

    “It’s WrestleMania season, isn’t it? Look, I’m not wrestling anymore. Maybe one day, but not right now. But my husband is!”

    Meanwhile, her husband and fellow WWE star Seth Rollins is headlining WrestleMania Saturday against CM Punk and Roman Reigns. Amid her absence, Becky Lynch was also featured in Chime’s commercial, joining Deion Sanders and Kai Cenat in a campaign.

  • Mariah May Expected to Leave AEW, WWE Believed to Be Her Next Destination

    Former AEW Women\’s Champion Mariah May is believed to be parting ways with AEW to join WWE. Reports recently emerged that her contract is likely to expire this summer and she might not sign a new deal. May also recently dropped a cryptic message on social media and the photo tagged in Orlando, Florida, the city with WWE operations and it fueled speculation about her potential move to WWE.

    Last year at AEW All In London, Mariah May captured the Women’s Championship for the first time in her career during her rivalry with her former mentor Toni Storm. However, after a reign of 174 days, May dropped the title back to Storm at Grand Slam Australia. Their rivalry culminated at AEW Revolution as Storm retained her title. Since then, Mariah May hasn\’t made any appearances and it is speculated that she could be leaving the promotion soon.

    Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio highlighted the cryptic social media post from May and added that there is a belief in WWE that the former Women’s Champion wants to go there. Dave Meltzer said:

    ”She has a photo of Orlando, Florida. I know from people in WWE they know she wants to go there. I think people saw that cryptic thing. I don’t know when her contract is up, everyone seems to think it’s this summer that’s it up.”

    Bryan Alvarez agreed and said:

    “I was given the impression it’s a two-year deal that she signed originally, so you can do the math. I have heard the same thing that at least in AEW, there’s a belief she’s heading to WWE.”

    AEW President Tony Khan has a reputation of writing talents off programming if they are willing to leave the promotion. In this case, it\’s speculated that Mariah May could be the one to exit and that\’s why she is not participating in the Owen Hart tournament.

    Over the past few years, a handful of AEW stars have departed the company before joining WWE. Most recently, Ricky Starks, Penta and Rey Fenix have inked a deal with WWE. Now, there is a huge possibility that Mariah May could be next.

  • Jeff Cobb Leaves NJPW Amid WWE Interest, Final Match Scheduled for April 19

    One half of the IWGP Tag Team Champions Jeff Cobb has decided to part ways with NJPW.

    New Japan Pro Wrestling recently announced that Cobb is set to depart the company and the IWGP Tag Team titles which he currently holds with Callum Newman have been vacated. The promotion has also announced that Jeff Cobb will face Hiroshi Tanahashi in a singles match on April 19th at Korakuen Hall. This will mark his final match for the promotion.

    The company wrote the following on their website:

    “New Japan Pro-Wrestling has come to terms with the departure of Jeff Cobb at his request. With Cobb one half of the IWGP Tag team Champions, those titles have now been vacated. Cobb’s final match in NJPW will take place in Korakuen Hall on April 19 against Hiroshi Tanahashi. New Japan Pro-Wrestling profoundly apologises for the sudden nature of this news and joins fans in wishing Cobb the best in all his future endeavours.”

    This news comes after Fightful reported that WWE was interested in signing Cobb. The outlet noted that he was already on the internal roster. Dave Meltzer reported that there had been talks between the two parties. However, there was no confirmation of a deal. Cobb’s contract with NJPW ran out earlier this year, but he continued to serve the company as a free agent.

    The 42-year-old powerhouse has been a key member of the United Empire faction and has had a great run with the promotion. But he is eager to look out for new opportunities and even added fuel to the speculation of his NJPW exit in a post-match interview last month:

    “Maybe it’s time to take my bags and go somewhere else.”

    His comments came last month after he faced El Phantasmo in a losing effort, for NJPW World Television Championship match at the NJPW Road to the New Beginning on February 3rd, 2025.

    WWE have been making massive signings in recent memory. It is needless to say that they have their eyes on Jeff Cobb\’s status and if they are able to secure a deal, Jeff Cobb could be an impactful acquisition.

  • Kevin Owens Speaks Out on Body Shaming: \’I\’m Comfortable With How I Look\’

    Kevin Owens recently opened up on critics saying he doesn\’t look like a wrestler. More often than not KO has faced body shaming due to his physique. But, \’The Prizefighter\’ has proved critics wrong every time he stepped foot inside the ring. He is one of the best and talented members of the current WWE roster. Despite the criticism over his shape, he has showcased quality performances over the years and continues to do so.

    Though he has maintained a similar shape over the years, Kevin Owens lost a considerable amount of weight and returned with a much leaner physique in 2019 which was commendable.

    Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Kevin Owens said he still faces comments about body shaming. However, he said that he feels comfortable with how he looks and it doesn\’t hamper his work:

    “Yeah, I mean, I still get it all the time. But really, the people that feel like that’s a knock or an insult, they’re just very stupid. I’m so comfortable with how I look. I always have been, which is probably what’s driven so many people crazy, because my weight has fluctuated over the years for sure. There were times where I was much heavier than I am now and there are reasons for that. They’ll say, ‘Well, you weren’t working out enough. You were eating like sh*t.’ Yeah, that’s true, but it never hindered my work.

    The former WWE Universal Champion added that weight has never been an issue as he continues to put up great quality of work inside the ring as well as on the mic. Though Kevin Owens has lost weight, he said that he hasn\’t worked for it:

    \”So you might have not liked looking at me the way I looked at that point, but I was having killer matches either way, I was able to talk better than most people on the roster, and that never changed. So now I’ve lost weight because honestly, I haven’t done anything. This is the funny part. I haven’t done anything to lose weight. I didn’t set out and go, I’m gonna lose weight. I really didn’t, just my weight fluctuates a lot. I might be a little more active in my everyday life than I was for a while, whatever it may be. I don’t know my metabolism. I really have no idea, but yeah right now I’ve shed some pounds. I might put more on. I really don’t know. But I’ve never made a conscious choice to be heavier or be lighter or look better and man, that really drives a lot of people crazy.”

    Kevin Owens is currently out with neck injury and it has forced him to miss WrestleMania 41. The seriousness of the injury has also put his pro wrestling future up in the air. We will have to wait and see what the future holds for him.

  • Michael Cole and Jey Uso Make Surprise Appearances At Pat McAfee\’s \’Big Night AHT\’

    WWE commentary legend Michael Cole and Jey Uso recently showed up at a special show known as the \’Big Night AHT,\’ hosted by none other than NFL legend and WWE Raw commentator Pat McAfee.

    It is needless to mention how much McAfee loves \’Yeeting\’ during Jey Uso\’s entrance. Well, the NFL legend brought out Jey Uso for a surprise appearance in PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh for a \’Yeet\’ session. \’Main Event\’ Jey Uso, who recently blasted his critics, even put up noted on social media that he \”needed\” the experience.

    McAfee\’s commentary partner, Michael Cole, also appeared on the show. Pat McAfee introduced Cole as the \’GOAT\’ and revealed he would be doing the play by play commentary for the Sumo wrestling match. Michael Cole then came out with a bottle of Whiskey in his hand. Michael Cole called McAfee his best friend and gave a shoutout to him for the event. The segment ended with them drinking some \’Jack Daniels.\’

    The show also included stars like Jelly Roll, Wiz Khalifa, Parker McCollum, and Snoop Dogg.

    Pat McAfee hosted \’Big Night AHT\’ in his hometown of Pittsburgh. The main aim to host this was to give fans a show for all kinds of entertainment. McAfee wanted the show to feature a variety of entertainment acts.

    McAfee had described the show as different from his typical weekly Pat McAfee Show. However, his co-hosts were still a part of the show. The name of the show is officially \”Big Night AHT with Pat McAfee and Friends.\” It is pronounced \”Big night out…\” but the word \”aht\” replaced the word \”out,\” as it would be big night out instead.

  • Tiffany Stratton Speaks Out After Tense Promo With Charlotte Flair: \’It\’s live TV, stakes are high\’

    WWE Women\’s Champion Tiffany Stratton has opened up on the controversial promo segment with Charlotte Flair on last week\’s edition of WWE SmackDown.

    Charlott Flair and Tiffany Stratton\’s segment grabbed some eyeballs after they were involved in a war of words on the blue brand. \’The Queen\’ went personal, taking shot at Stratton\’s voice. The reigning champ clapped back mentioning Flair’s personal real-life relationship issues. Stratton even referenced Flair’s divorce from Andrade and her failed marriages.

    During the Babyfaces podcast, Stratton opened up on the segment, saying she feels Charlotte Flair didn\’t expect her to stand up to her. She then hyped up their title match at WrestleMania 41 and felt the duo did well in getting fans invested in the upcoming match. Tiffany Stratton said:

    \”Being so new into this business and being so new as champion, I don\’t think she really expected me to stand up to her and I don\’t think she expected me to, almost clap back. All I have to say is, it\’s live TV, stakes are high. We\’re going into WrestleMania. I have the title, I want to keep the title. I\’m going to pull out every stop that I can and people want to see our match. I think we did a very good job or getting people wanting to see our match and invested in our story. Now, I\’m ready to put on the best women\’s match ever and ready to go to war.\”

    It has been reported that many believe that Tiffany Stratton had to fight back but taking personal shots on TV was not recommended. Their digs at each other were also removed in the video clip of the segment which dropped on WWE\’s social media accounts. The whole situation has been referred to as a ‘wreck,’ and both the wrestlers faced had heat for going off-script.