SEScoops

Author: Mike Reichlin

  • Swerve Strickland Overpaid? \”We Shake the Foundation of Things\”

    Swerve Strickland says he\’s worth every penny that he earns, and thinks its kind of funny that these \”overpaid\” labels get thrown around with people of color.

    The former World Champion of All Elite Wrestling recently put pen-to-pater on a new multi-year contract with the organization. He signed the contract at Wembley Stadium on the AEW All In London kickoff show, just hours before he\’d lose the title against Bryan Danielson. Shortly thereafter, it was rumored that WWE was interested in signing Strickland, but felt AEW overpaid and offered a sum that was far above market value.

    In a candid interview with The Breakfast Club morning radio show, Strickland did not hold back, pointing out how conversations around athlete pay often change when it involves a Black performer.

    “They only complain when a Black person gets paid, I will say that. We shake the foundation of things like that,” Strickland remarked.

    He went on to challenge WWE’s stance, questioning why his contract was even a topic of discussion for a company that had parted ways with him two years ago.

    “‘Oh snap, wait. That’s not what we would pay.’ Then why are you calling me? Why are you asking me? If I’m not your concern, then don’t worry about it. Don’t worry about my pockets and our money.”

    Strickland made it clear that he holds no grudges towards WWE, acknowledging their decision not to renew his contract previously. Instead, he emphasized his determination to continue succeeding in the wrestling world.

    “We’re good. You have your talent. You made your decision with me two years ago. No hard feelings from me. I keep it moving and I’m going to figure my way out and I’m going to build myself up.”

    Strickland’s comments highlight a broader conversation about fairness and representation in sports contracts, particularly regarding Black athletes.

  • WWE News: The Rock and Mankind’s \’This Is Your Life’ Turns 25

    On September 27, 1999, Mankind (WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley) hosted a special “This Is Your Life” segment on WWE Raw in honor of his close friend, The Rock.

    Mankind introduced several figures from The Rock’s past. Among the guests were The Rock’s high school sweetheart, sparking a hilarious moment when he reminisced about her parents’ couch. Another notable guest was The Rock’s former football coach, which led to The Rock humorously recalling how he was forced to run sprints after delivering a DDT to an opposing quarterback.

    The Rock had the audience in the palm of his hand, effortlessly delivering his iconic catchphrases while roasting each of Foley’s special guests.

    The segment showcased both The Rock and Mankind at their comedic best and remains a prime example of how entertaining “sports entertainment” can be when it\’s done right.

    WWE has attempted to recreate this magic through subsequent “This Is Your Life” efforts, none have quite captured lightning in a bottle like that unforgettable night on 9/27/99.

    The Rock \’and\’n\’ Sock Connections Most Memorable Moments (Playlist)

  • SmackDown Preview: Solo Sikoa\’s Return, 3 Matches

    Tonight\’s WWE SmackDown airs live on the USA Network at 8/7 from the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville , SC.

    The road to WWE Bad Blood continues, with less than two weeks until the upcoming premium live event.

    Matches and Segments for tonight:

    • Solo Sikoa Returns: The Tribal Chief returns ahead of his big tag match with Jacob Fatu against Cody Rhodes and roman Reigns next weekend.
    • Michin vs. Piper Niven: This bout was signed after Niven attacked Minchin with a trash can after lsat week\’s broadcast on SmackDown LowDown. This singles match adds fuel to Michin’s ongoing rivalry with Chelsea Green, whom she\’ll soon will battle in a Dumpster Match.
    • #1 Contender\’s Match: Bayley will take on Naomi, with the winner earning a shot at the WWE Women’s Championship.
    • Match 6: Andrade vs. Carmelo Hayes: In their ongoing series, Andrade leads 3-2 and looks to close out the rivalry against Carmelo Hayes

    What happened last week?

    Catch up on all the action from last week\’s show, with the Top 10 Moments and the SmackDown Lowdown post-show:

    Michin suffers a brutal attack while Carmelo Hayes and Giovanni Vinci issue strong statements following Friday Night SmackDown.

  • AEW Rampage 9/27: House of Black, Takeshita, Willow Nightingale in Action

    All Elite Wrestling announced that the main event for Friday\’s September 27th episode of AEW Rampage on TNT.

    Brody King & Buddy Matthews of the House of Black will square off against the high-flying team of Lio Rush & Action Andretti. We\’ll also see Konosuke Takeshita, Willow Nightingale, The Acclaimed and more in action.

    Here is the updated lineup for tonight\’s AEW Rampage (9/27):

    • House of Black (Brody King & Buddy Matthews) vs. Lio Rush & Action Andretti
    • Konosuke Takeshita vs. Angelico
    • Anna Jay vs. Robyn Renegade
    • Willow Nightingale vs. Taya Valkyrie
    • The Acclaimed (Max Caster & Anthony Bowens) in action

    Watch AEW Rampage Fridays at 10/9c on TNT.

    Highlights from last week\’s AEW Rampage:

  • Saraya Re-Signs With AEW

    Saraya has reportedly signed a new contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), according to Fightful. This news comes two years after Saraya made her debut with AEW at Dynamite Grand Slam 2022.

    Saraya is a former AEW Women’s World Champion, and has wrestled 10 matches this year. She currently leads the Outcasts with Harley Cameron.

    At AEW All In, Saraya was confronted by Jamie Hayter. The two have been feuding ever since and they’ll square off this Saturday night on AEW Collision (TNT, 8/7c).

    Saraya’s upcoming book, Hell in Boots: Clawing My Way Through Nine Lives, will be released March 25, 2025.

  • CM Punk Eyes New WWE Rivals After Drew McIntyre Feud

    CM Punk’s current feud with Drew McIntyre is set to culminate at WWE Bad Blood, where the two will clash in a Hell in a Cell match. After this rivalry, Punk is already eyeing new opponents, starting with World Heavyweight Champion Gunther.

    The former WWE & AEW World Champion spoke with 103.5 KISS FM this week, and expressed interest in facing a mix of familiar rivals and fresh competitors.

    Among his past adversaries, he named:

    • Rey Mysterio
    • John Cena
    • Randy Orton
    • Cody Rhodes.

    As for new opponents, Punk is eager to step into the ring with:

    • GUNTHER
    • Chad Gable
    • Ludwig Kaiser
    • Dominik Mysterio
    • Liv Morgan
    • Damian Priest

    What CM Punk Expects When Raw Moves to Netflix

    In addition to his in-ring aspirations, Punk commented on WWE Raw’s upcoming move to Netflix in January 2025. He downplayed the likelihood of significant changes to the show’s content, emphasizing that it will largely stay the same.

    While nostalgia is powerful, many fans are advocating for a more edgy product in the hopes of recapturing the magic of the R-Rated Attitude Era. However, Punk warned that fans anticipating a return to mature content—such as excessive profanity or lingerie pillow fights—will be disappointed. Reflecting on the Attitude Era, he pointed out that pushing boundaries often resulted in unsustainable, lower-quality programming over time.

    WWE Hell in a Cell takes place next Saturday, October 5 from Atlanta, GA at the State Farm Arena. The premium live event will stream live on Peacock.

  • WWE to Host First 2-Night SummerSlam at MetLife Stadium in 2025

    New Jersey will host the first-ever two-night WWE SummerSlam next year.

    WWE SummerSlam 2025 will take place Saturday August 2 and Sunday, August 3 from MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.

    In a press release, WWE and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) provided the additional details. Peter Dropick, TKO Executive Vice President of Event Development and Operations, touted NJ Governor Governor Phil Murphy and the NJSEA team as being, \”phenomenal to work with.\”

    General on-sale ticket information will be announced soon, but fans who are looking to attend SummerSlam 2025 can visit WWE.com to sign up and be one of the first to receive exclusive-presale information.

    SummerSlam Going Big

    \"Open
    WWE SummerSlam can no longer be contained in 20,000-person basketball arenas

    This year\’s WWE SummerSlam took place from Cleveland Browns Stadium in Ohio. During the post-show press conference, WWE exec Paul \”Triple H\” Levesque said this was likely the last one-night SummerSlam for a while.

    Following today\’s announcement, we know WWE SummerSlam will be two-night stadium-event weekends for the foreseeable future.

    WWE SummerSlam 2025

    • Dates: Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3
    • Venue: MetLife Stadium
    • Location: East Rutherford, NJ

    WWE SummerSlam 2026

    • Dates: Saturday, August 1 and Sunday, August 2
    • Venue: U.S. Bank Stadium
    • Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

  • TNA Impact Preview: Bound For Glory Main Event, NXT Debut

    TNA Wrestling is back tonight with an all-new episode of TNA Impact! broadcasting on AXS TV at 8/7C.

    This week\’s episode takes place from San Antonio, Texas at the Boeing Center At Tech Port. We\’ll see a #1 contender\’s match, a debut and more involvement from NXT talent.

    Confirmed Matches and Segments:

    • #1 Contender\’s Match: Joe Hendry vs. Frankie Kazarian (Winner challenges Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Title at Bound For Glory)
    • Zachary Wentz & ABC (Ace Austin & Chris Bey) vs. Leon Slater, Kushida & Mike Bailey
    • Wendy Choo & Rosemary vs. Jordynne Grace & Mystery Partner from NXT
    • Heather Reckless vs. Xia Brookside
    • Jonathan Gresham vs. Laredo Kid
    • Ying Lee (formerly Xia Li) debuts

    Plus, we\’ll hear from former TNA Champion Josh Alexander.

    Stay tuned to SEScoops for more news from TNA Wrestling in the lead-up to TNA Bound for Glory on Saturday, October 26.

    Highlights from Last Week\’s TNA Impact (9/19/24)

    The road to Bound for Glory begins:

  • Mercedes Mone: Vince McMahon’s Disrespect Drove Me Out of WWE

    Mercedes Mone (formerly known as Sasha Banks in WWE) recently revealed that disrespectful treatment by Vince McMahon was a key factor in her decision to leave WWE—a career she once considered her dream.

    While promoting AEW’s Grand Slam event in New York City, Mone appeared on The Breakfast Club, where she candidly discussed her departure from WWE and shared her thoughts on McMahon, the subject of the Netflix docuseries Mr. McMahon.

    Mone explained that personal issues, particularly how McMahon spoke to her in a demeaning manner, played a significant role in her decision to leave. She felt “talked down to” and realized it was time to move on.

    “I left for many different reasons. A lot of personal stuff happened with myself and the Chairman at the time. I didn’t like how he talked to me and how I was talked down to. I was like, ‘It’s time to listen to your soul and your heart.’

    \"Sasha
    Sasha Banks and Vince McMahon backstage in WWE
    (Photo: WWE)

    A turning point came when she experienced what she described as a “light” urging her to follow her heart. She recognized that staying in WWE would negatively impact her future and the values she wanted to live by and instill in others.

    \”There was a light that came to me, and I left WWE. A guide told me, ‘That day he talked to me a little crazy. It was enough for my source of light to come into my body and go, “If you stay, that’s not okay. This is for the rest of your life. What are you going to teach your kids? What are you going to teach people?”’

    Mercedes Mone\’s Inspirational Message

    Ultimately, Mone’s decision was about standing up for herself. She reflected on the long-term consequences of staying in a toxic environment, considering how it might affect her children, her fans, and her own well-being. After spending a decade in WWE, Mone left to pursue a better path for herself.

    \”After ten years, if you’re feeling like this from words, you have to stand up for yourself. That’s what I did. A light came to me and said, ‘You have to walk away and do something better for yourself.’”

    Longtime fans know to \”never say never\” in pro wrestling, and there are legions of Sasha Banks fans hoping she\’ll return to WWE one day. Mone calls AEW her home and has \”the best\” relationship with the company. She feels mentally and physically at her best, feels blessed to be living out new dreams after 14 years in the industry.

  • Watch the New Vince McMahon Docuseries on Netflix

    The highly-anticipated Netflix docuseries, Mr. McMahon, premiered on September 25, 2024 and is now available for streaming (subscription required)1.

    The series explores the controversial life and career of Vince McMahon, the former WWE Chairman who revolutionized the world of professional wrestling. Known for his larger-than-life persona both in and out of the ring, McMahon’s story is filled with success, controversy, and behind-the-scenes drama that shaped the WWE into the global phenomenon it is today.

    Watch Mr. McMahon on Netflix here

    The series consists of six episodes, each approximately one hour long. Directed by Chris Smith (Tiger King), Mr. McMahon includes over 100 hours of interviews with McMahon, WWE personalities, journalists, and McMahon\’s family.

    Whether you’ve been following our updates on the docuseries or are just learning about it this is your chance to get inside the mind of Vince McMahon—from the creation of WrestleMania to the major controversies that marked his career.

    Stay tuned to our site for more coverage and analysis of what we uncover from this series.

    1. Netflix offers various subscription plans that give you access to its full library, including the Mr. McMahon docuseries, which can be streamed on multiple devices depending on your plan. ↩︎

  • William Regal Sets the Record Straight on His AEW Departure

    William Regal has long been a pivotal figure in professional wrestling, particularly in WWE’s NXT brand, where he played an instrumental role in its growth and success. With the final NXT episode on USA Network airing this week, Regal took to social media to reflect on his journey with the brand and address rumors surrounding his stint in All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

    In response to a video posted by WWE commemorating this era, Regal shared a heartfelt message on Twitter, thanking key figures like Triple H, Shawn Michaels, and Matt Bloom for their efforts in shaping NXT’s evolution. Regal’s post read:

    \”I was part (except for H’s family) of the very beginning of @WWE’s @NXT. I’m still involved but not as much as I was. Thank you to H, Shawn, Matt and everyone else that fought the fight of making a one-hour program on The WWE Network to traveling the world and making new stars and memories for the fans. It continues today. Doesn’t matter what the color scheme is or was, or has been—we changed the wrestling world, although few will want to admit it. It’s been the best part of a 41-year career being @WWENXT to the core.\”

    Defending His AEW Run

    While Regal expressed pride in his NXT tenure, a fan brought up his time with AEW, where he briefly worked in 2022. The fan thanked Regal for his contributions to NXT but also referenced his “snaking out the competition”—an implication that he had nefarious motives while working for a rival promotion.

    Regal was quick to push back, clarifying the reasons behind his AEW tenure and debunking any rumors about leaving under questionable circumstances. He responded with a firm message to set the record straight:

    \”FYI, although it serves some people’s agenda and despite a massive amount of people in AEW who can back me up, I went to AEW to help because Bryan Danielson asked me to. Please find me one person who can say otherwise. I arrived at 10 a.m. and stayed until 6:15 p.m. to train anyone who wanted to come. Apart from going to the restroom and refilling my water container, I never attended a single production meeting. I needed people to realize I was only there to help, not to interfere.\”

    Regal further clarified his lack of involvement in AEW’s internal workings, noting:

    \”I didn’t ask a single question about anyone’s contract status. I helped at the ring with whatever the talent needed. I showered, got into a suit by 6:30, and watched the monitor with everyone else. Feel free to ask anyone backstage if I did anything but help with no agenda.\”

    Additionally, Regal addressed a rumor about a personal phone call with AEW President Tony Khan during a difficult family period. Regal explained:

    \”I didn’t call Tony when his mom was ill—he called me. As soon as he told me where he was, I ended the phone call, and we spoke two weeks later. My deal was up in December 2022, and that’s when I left. These are all facts I can prove. Anyone trying to twist this can feel free to check.\”

    His time in AEW, though brief, gave us the Blackpool Combat Club and some other memorable moments. As NXT enters a new chapter on The CW, Regal’s legacy remains deeply intertwined with the brand’s success. His son Charlie Dempsey is the reigning NXT Heritage Cup Champion and the leader of the No Quarter Catch Crew faction.

  • Titus O’Neil Featured on “I Am The Storm” WWE Bad Blood Track

    WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil is featured on the song “I Am The Storm” by Vo Williams, which accompanied the highly praised segment between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns on the September 20 episode of SmackDown.

    The cinematic confrontation, filmed at Reigns\’ alma mater Georgia Tech, set the stage for the upcoming tag team match at Bad Blood, where Rhodes and Reigns will team up to face the new Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fat of The Bloodline.

    In the segment, the two top stars agreed to support each other in the upcoming match while teasing a potential renewal of their own rivalry, adding more depth to their dynamic. It\’s still pretty surreal to see these former hated rivals working together against a common enemy, but this segment deserves the acclaim it\’s received and this tag match is going to be something.

    Titus O\’Neil\’s Involvement

    O’Neil is credited with a guest spot on \”I Am The Storm,\” along with artist Sonya Bryson-Kirksey. The former Prime Time Player confirmed his involvement on social media.

    \"I

    Twitter user @Ucepenitentiary identified that O\’Neil\’s voice is used in the opening of the song.

    Vo Williams says the streaming numbers were \”wild\” after the song premiered on SmackDown. He\’s helped pioneer a genre that\’s been dubbed Epic Hip Hop, which can best be described as anthemic hype songs that you\’d hear at championship sports games.

  • Preview: WWE NXT’s Final USA Network Episode Before Move to The CW

    This week’s episode of WWE NXT marks the end of an era, as it will be the final broadcast on the USA Network before the show officially moves to The CW. Since its debut as a standalone show on USA in September 2019, NXT has grown into a vital part of WWE’s programming lineup, transitioning from its developmental roots into a legitimate third brand.

    As NXT closes this chapter, the September 24 episode promises to deliver high-impact matches and segments that will set the tone for the show’s future on The CW.

    Here’s a preview of what fans can expect, live from Orlando, FL:

    • NXT on CW Press Conference: Featuring Ethan Page, Trick Williams, Giulia, Roxanne Perez, Wes Lee, and Zachary Wentz
    • NXT Women’s North American Championship match: Kelani Jordan (c) vs. Wren Sinclair
    • Singles Match: Lexis King vs. Oro Mensah
    • Singles Match: Ridge Holland vs. Riley Osborne
    • The Grayson Waller Effect featuring Nathan Frazer and Axiom

    NXT’s Evolution on USA Network

    NXT first debuted on the USA Network on September 18, 2019, marking a significant milestone in WWE’s decision to showcase NXT as a two-hour live program, in direct competition with rival wrestling promotions. This move was pivotal in NXT’s transition from WWE’s developmental system to being recognized as the company’s third major brand, alongside Raw and SmackDown.

    Prior to its arrival on USA, NXT had aired on the WWE Network, with occasional broadcasts on USA as part of special programming. The expanded exposure allowed NXT to reach a broader audience, helping it cultivate stars who have since become mainstays in WWE’s larger ecosystem.

    The Road to The CW

    With NXT’s move to The CW, WWE aims to reach an even wider audience, positioning the brand for continued growth. The NXT on CW Press Conference this week featuring stars like Ethan Page, Trick Williams, and Roxanne Perez will provide a look at what’s to come in the next chapter.

    Stay tuned for more updates as NXT prepares for its debut on The CW and continues to evolve as a dynamic force in professional wrestling.

    Playlist: “WWE NXT on The CW” Superstar Profiles

  • Jey Uso Joins Exclusive Club with Historic WWE IC Title Win

    On Monday night, Jey Uso etched his name in WWE history by winning the Intercontinental Championship. The thrilling result was the culmination of a long campaign to establish himself as a top singles competitor. He\’s cemented his legacy not just as a decorated tag wrestler who achieved success independently, but as part of an exclusive club of father-son duos to hold the Intercontinental title.

    Jey’s victory marks a historic moment in WWE, as he becomes only the second man in the company’s history to win the Intercontinental Championship after his father, Rikishi, held the title. This rare distinction places Jey Uso and Rikishi alongside another iconic father-son duo, the late Curt Hennig (known as Mr. Perfect) and his son, Curtis Axel, as the only two pairs to share this unique achievement.

    A Rare and Exclusive Club

    \"WWE

    Before Jey Uso and Rikishi, the only other father-son pair to achieve this feat were Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig and his son, Curtis Axel (Joseph Hennig). Perfect held the IC title twice, first winning it on May 19, 1990, after defeating Tito Santana in a tournament final. His second reign later that year solidified him as being synonymous with the title to this day.

    Mr. Pefect\’s son Curtis Axel won the Intercontinental Championship in 2013, on WWE’s Payback pay-per-view. His victory came on the same night as Father’s Day, a symbolic tribute to his late father, Mr. Perfect, making the moment even more special for wrestling fans who appreciated their family’s contribution to the business.

    We\’ve seen many father-son combinations rise to prominence—most recently Rey and Dominik Mysterio, who became the first father-son pair to win the tag team titles. However, only Curtis Axel and Jey Uso can say they\’ve held the prestigious Intercontinental Championship just like their fathers.

    As Jey Uso carves out his own path, the bond between generations of superstars continues to be a rewarding aspect of of wrestling for longtime fans.

  • Braun Strowman and Bronson Reed Clash Before WWE Bad Blood

    Coming out of this week’s RAW, we’ve already got a big card to look forward to a full week away. Next week’s September 30 RAW from Evansville, Indiana will be the final episode before WWE Bad Blood.

    Last Man/Monster Standing Match: “Big” Bronson Reed vs. Braun Strowman

    After weeks of chaotic brawls around the arena, Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman will finally settle their score in a Last Man/Monster Standing Match. RAW General Manager Adam Pearce announced this high-stakes showdown to bring an end to their XXL feud.

    Rey Mysterio vs. Xavier Woods

    Last week’s miscommunication, which saw the Latino World Order (LWO) cost The New Day a match, left Xavier Woods feeling disrespected. He believes Rey Mysterio, Finn Balor, and even his own partner, Kofi Kingston, look down on him for never winning singles gold. As a result, Rey has put his match with Finn Balor on hold to face Woods in a personal bout.

    Kofi Kingston vs. Chad Gable

    After The New Day’s loss to The Creed Brothers, Kofi Kingston is set for a singles match against Chad Gable. This match is not only a chance for Kofi to redeem himself but also to restore momentum for both him and Woods ahead of WWE Bad Blood.

  • WWE Airs Cryptic ‘Fate Is Woven’ Promo On Raw

    During the September 23 episode of WWE Raw, a mysterious vignette aired, catching the attention of fans. The cryptic video prominently featured the letters “PFR,” which were set ablaze in a circle. As the flames consumed the symbol, a narrator ominously declared, “Fate is woven.”

    The video aired just before a commercial break, with no additional context provided. WWE has a history of using such enigmatic promos, similar to past storylines like the Wyatt Sicks and The Fiend.

    X user @WrestlingCovers noted that the symbols in the vignette are Viking runes, also known as Futhark. According to their interpretation, the symbols spell out “WAR,” potentially linking the promo to the Viking Raiders. The tag team has been off television since the May 14, 2024, episode of WWE Raw due to various injuries, adding fuel to speculation that this may signal their impending return.

    For now, fans are left to speculate as WWE has yet to provide any further clues.

  • Ric Flair and Wife Wendy Part Ways Amicably After 13 Years

    Ric Flair has announced his separation from his wife, Wendy. Flair acknowledged that, like all couples, they had faced their share of ups and downs. He emphasized that the separation was mutual and respectful.

    Flair expressed deep gratitude for Wendy’s unwavering support during his severe health crisis in 2017, noting that she never left his side throughout the ordeal. He also mentioned that both he and Wendy are now focused on different projects, making it difficult to maintain their relationship due to conflicting schedules.

    While this separation marks the end of Flair’s fifth marriage, he wished Wendy the best in her future endeavors:

    “Wendy and I enjoyed 13 great years. As with every couple, we have experienced our ups and downs. I think it’s important for everyone to know right now that we have decided to part ways respectfully. I’ll never ever be able to thank her enough for standing by my side through my terrible health crisis in 2017. She never left my side! And for that I will always be grateful! We both are working on different projects at the current time and it becomes difficult with my schedule and her schedule to make this work. I wish her the best of luck with her projects, and I know that she supports mine!”

  • Vince McMahon Criticizes Netflix Documentary for Misrepresentation

    Vince McMahon has publicly voiced his disappointment with a Netflix documentary that chronicles his life and career. In a statement, McMahon expressed regret over the documentary’s portrayal of him, specifically criticizing how it conflates his wrestling persona, “Mr. McMahon,” with his true self.

    According to McMahon, the producers missed an opportunity to provide an objective, well-rounded account of his life and the business empire he built. He claims the final product distorts reality, using selective editing, outdated soundbites, and out-of-context footage to mislead viewers. McMahon argues that these editorial choices were designed to create a deceptive narrative.

    He further highlights how the documentary references a past lawsuit and an affair in a misleading way, reinforcing the misconception that his “Mr. McMahon” character is an accurate reflection of who he is.

    McMahon hopes viewers will approach the film with an open mind, urging them to remember that there are two sides to every story.

    Vince’s McMahon’s Statement on Netflix Series

    McMahon writes, “I don’t regret participating in this Netflix documentary. The producers had an opportunity to tell an objective story about my life and the incredible business I built, which were equally filled with excitement, drama, fun, and a fair amount of controversy and life lessons. Unfortunately, based on an early partial cut I’ve seen, this doc falls short and takes the predictable path of conflating the “Mr. McMahon” character with my true self, Vince. The title and promos alone make that evident.

    A lot has been misrepresented or left out entirely in an effort to leave viewers intentionally confused. The producers use typical editing tricks with out of context footage and dated soundbites etc. to distort the viewers’ perception and support a deceptive narrative.

    In an attempt to further their misleading account, the producers use a lawsuit based on an affair I ended as evidence that I am, in fact, “Mr. McMahon.”

    I hope the viewer will keep an open mind and remember that there are two sides to every story.”

  • WWE Raw Preview For Tonight: Jey Uso IC Title Shot, McIntyre Returns

    WWE Monday Night Raw airs tonight at 8/7c on the USA Network, live from the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California. With Bad Blood just around the corner next weekend, this episode will feature several storyline advancements leading into the premium live event.

    Jey Uso is \”so ready\” to be a singles champion, and he\’ll get his shot in just a matter of hours. The former Bloodline member has done a commendable job without the support of his brother or family, but he\’ll have to go through Bron Breakker if he wants to etch his name in the history books.

    Matches and segments for the show will include:

    • Jey Uso challenges Bron Breakker for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
    • Sami Zayn vs. Ludwig Keiser
    • Drew McIntyre is also scheduled to return. He\’s set to address CM Punk’s recent comments in what will undoubtedly escalate tensions heading into Bad Blood.

    We\’ll update this article if Raw General Manager Adam Pearce announces additional matches or segments, as he\’s known in the hours leading up to the show.

    Catch up on the Top 10 Moments from last week\’s WWE Raw:

  • Seth Rollins Has Viral Moment with TY Hilton At Bears vs. Colts Game

    WWE superstar Seth Rollins was spotted at the Chicago Bears game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium. A die-hard Bears fan, Rollins attended the game during his current break from WWE and found himself in an unexpected viral moment with former Colts wide receiver, TY Hilton.

    A Surprise Encounter with TY Hilton

    In a playful interaction that delighted fans, Hilton, a former Colts standout, engaged with Rollins near the stands. Hilton humorously “threw” Rollins out of the seating area, causing the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion to tumble onto the field. The light-hearted scene was caught on camera and quickly spread across social media.

    Rollins Reacts to the Bears’ Loss

    The game didn’t go well for Rollins’ Bears, who lost 21-16, dropping their season record to 1-2. Following the defeat, Rollins took to social media to vent his frustration, rekindling his well-known frustrations with the Bears’ performance. He reiterated his disappointment with football as a whole, continuing a theme he’s expressed in previous seasons.

    The viral nature of the incident with TY Hilton generated significant buzz on social media. Fans of both WWE and the NFL discussed the crossover moment, making Rollins’ tumble one of the most talked-about highlights from Sunday’s game.

    Rollins’ WWE Absence

    Rollins’ appearance at the game comes amid his time off from WWE. He has been absent from programming since August 5, when he was brutally attacked by Bronson Reed on WWE Raw. Rollins has been recovering since the assault, and his time at the Bears game marked one of his rare public appearances during this hiatus.

  • Mercedes Mone Shares Concerns About WWE Raw’s Move to Netflix

    WWE has announced that its flagship program, Monday Night Raw, will undergo significant changes starting in October 2024. The show will shift from its current three-hour format to a two-hour runtime, which will remain in place until the end of the year. Even more notably, starting in January 2025, Raw will move from cable television to Netflix—a monumental shift, marking the first time in its 31-year history that the show will no longer air on traditional TV.

    This decision has stirred mixed reactions within the wrestling community, with fans and industry insiders alike weighing in on the potential impact of these changes. One prominent voice sharing thoughts on this transition is AEW star Mercedes Mone, formerly known as Sasha Banks in WWE. The “CEO” and reigning AEW TBS Champions expressed her opinions through her Mone Mag newsletter.

    Having been a key figure in WWE during her time there, Mone has firsthand experience with Raw‘s three-hour format, having headlined numerous episodes. She discussed both the benefits and potential drawbacks of the show’s upcoming changes.

    Opportunities vs. Concerns with a Shorter Runtime:

    Mone pointed out that while the three-hour format was often criticized for dragging at times, it provided valuable opportunities for underrepresented talent—especially women—to get more screen time. With the show reverting to a two-hour window, she expressed concern that some performers might find it harder to secure consistent airtime, which could, in turn, limit their visibility and career growth.

    However, Mone also sees a potential upside. She acknowledged that the move to Netflix could open new doors for creative storytelling. She speculated that the streaming platform might allow WWE to explore fresh ways to showcase talent, possibly compensating for the loss of an hour of weekly programming. In her view, the success of this transition will largely depend on how well WWE utilizes this new format to highlight its diverse roster.

    Ultimately, Mone remains optimistic that WWE’s ability to create more opportunities for its talent will be crucial, not just for the performers but also for the overall health of the industry.

    Mone’s AEW Status

    In the meantime, Mone continues to shine in AEW. She is currently in her fourth month as the AEW TBS Champion, having most recently defended her title against Hikaru Shida at All Out 2024. Her career has continued to evolve since leaving WWE, but it’s clear that she still has a vested interest in the future of the company that helped make her a star.

    As Raw prepares for a new chapter, the wrestling world will be watching closely, with veterans like Mone offering insights into how these changes could shape the future of WWE and the broader wrestling landscape.

  • Speculation Grows Over Potential Wade Barrett In-Ring Return

    The September 9 episode of WWE Raw ignited rumors of a potential in-ring return for Wade Barrett after an on-screen confrontation with Drew McIntyre. McIntyre, following his recent attack on CM Punk, addressed Barrett during a segment, prompting wrestling fans to wonder whether the former WWE Intercontinental Champion might be considering a return to the squared circle.

    Barrett, who officially retired from in-ring competition in late 2015 after a series of injuries, was released from WWE in June 2016. He returned to the company in 2020, not as a competitor, but as part of the commentary team on NXT. Despite his current role behind the announce desk, the possibility of a comeback remains a topic of discussion within the wrestling community.

    WWE Hall of Famer John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) added fuel to the fire during a recent interview on Huge Pop. JBL expressed his belief that Barrett still has something to offer inside the ring if he’s willing to take the chance. “If Wade has that desire, I say go for it,” JBL stated. “Commentary will always be there for him, but the window for an in-ring career isn’t open forever. If it doesn’t work out, he can always come back to commentary.”

    Barrett, a five-time WWE Intercontinental Champion, wrestled for WWE from 2006 to 2015. He was released the following year, before returning in 2020 and transitioning to his current role as a broadcaster. While there has been no official word from Barrett or WWE on a potential return, JBL’s comments suggest that the door is not entirely closed.

    At the time of writing, Barrett has not indicated any plans to step back into the ring, leaving fans to speculate about what the future holds for the former leader of the Nexus.

    Wade Barrett’s Best WWE Moments (Playlist)

  • Dustin Rhodes Celebrates 36 Years – AEW Is “Good for My Soul”

    Dustin Rhodes continues to be a force in All Elite Wrestling, showing no signs of slowing down. Having been with AEW since its inception, Rhodes’ passion for pro wrestling remains as strong as ever. His enduring love for the business has likely contributed to his impressive longevity in the ring. Earlier this month, he celebrated 36 years since his debut.

    On the September 21 episode of AEW Collision, Rhodes and Sammy Guevara defended their ROH World Tag Team Titles in a Bunkhouse Brawl, a stipulation created by Dusty Rhodes in 1985. The duo took on Mike Bennett and Matt Taven of the Undisputed Kingdom in a brutal, hard-hitting contest.

    The Natural Reflects on His AEW Journey

    Following the victory, Rhodes shared his thoughts on social media, expressing his deep appreciation for AEW and the opportunity to continue performing at a high level. He remarked that his time in AEW has been “good for his soul,” and reflected on his five-year journey with the company, referring to it as his “One Last Ride.”

    Guevara Reacts and Challenges Kazuchika Okada

    The Spanish God celebrated the victory issuing a challenge to none other than Kazuchika Okada for an AEW Continental Championship Eliminator Match for the September 28 Grand Slam episode of AEW Collision. If Guevara secures a victory, he plans to challenge Okada for the AEW Continental Championship on AEW Dynamite’s 5-Year Anniversary show on October 2.

  • Lucha Bros Set to Join WWE After Leaving AEW

    Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fénix, the Lucha Bros, have signed multi-year WWE contracts, as first reported by Cory Hays. They’re expected to join the main roster soon.

    Penta and Fénix are AEW originals, having been with the company since its inception in 2019. Over the years, they participated in some of the greatest matches in AEW history, both as a tag team and in singles competition. Together, they held the AEW World Tag Team Championships, the AEW World Trios Championships (alongside PAC as Death Triangle), and Fénix held the AEW International Championship.

    Recent reports suggested that Pentagon and Fenix’s AEW contracts were nearing expiration. The wrestlers subsequently filed applications to trademark their ring names, a sign they were exploring opportunities beyond AEW.

    This latest departure from All Elite Wrestling will undoubtedly shake up the tag division and creates a slew of fresh match-ups. The jump is a significant shift in their careers, as WWE’s global reach will bring their talents to the industry’s largest platform.

    Stay tuned to SEScoops for further updates on the Lucha Bros’ transition to WWE, as well as information on other AEW contracts set to expire by the end of the year.

    The Lucha Bros’ Best AEW Matches

    Rey Fénix and Penta El Zero Miedo delivered numerous memorable matches during their time in AEW, showcasing their exceptional in-ring skills. Here are four of our favorites:

    1. The Young Bucks vs. The Lucha Brothers (Double or Nothing 2019)
    2. The Young Bucks vs. The Lucha Brothers (All Out 2021)
    3. The Lucha Brothers vs. FTR (Full Gear 2021)
    4. Death Triangle vs. The Elite (Escalera De La Muerte, January 11, 2023)
    https://youtu.be/SX9PFBWydX0?si=8Wu6x3kXS4qiKEoJ

  • The Queen of Villains: Netflix Series Spotlights Wrestling Icon Dump Matsumoto

    Netflix has a new documentary series titled The Queen of Villains, focusing on the life and career of Dump Matsumoto, a central figure in women’s professional wrestling during the 1980s.

    Queen of Villains explores the untold story of Dump Matsumoto, played by comedic actress Yuriyan Retriever. Matsumoto, known as Japan’s most infamous wrestling heel, was instrumental in the surge of women’s wrestling in Japan during the 1980s.

    Unlike her contemporaries of the time, she gained fame through her brutal wrestling style and flamboyant personality, becoming a cultural phenomenon alongside the iconic tag team duo, the Crush Gals. The series also features Erika Karata and Ayame Goriki, who portray members of this legendary tag team.

    Watch The Queen of Villains on Netflix (Subscription Required)

    QOV Cast

    \"Dump
    Dump Matsumoto and Yuriyan Retriever

    Starring: Yuriyan Retriever, Erika Karata, Ayame Goriki Nobuko Sendo, Takuma Otoo, Daisuke Kuroda, Takumi Saitoh, Jun Murakami

    • Developer/Producer/Writer: Osamu Suzuki
    • Supervising Director: Kazuya Shiraishi
    • Directors: Kazuya Shiraishi (Episodes 1-3), Katsuhito Mogi (Episodes 4-5)
    • Theme song: \”Are you serious?\” by Awich

    Trailer

    How did one girl become hated in Japan and whip everyone into a frenzy? One ordinary girl went on to captivate all of Japan. Now, the story of her viciously vile fight for survival is about to begin!

    Get a first look at shocking scenes of Dump Matsumoto versus the Crush Gals! A girl named Kaoru Matsumoto works tirelessly to realize her dream of becoming a professional wrestler. However, she is oppressed by both her employers and her father, and starts to lose her sense of belonging. In time, she channels her sorrow and rage toward all of Japan, transforming into a villainous heel dreaded by everyone.

    This set the stage for the Hair vs. Hair Death Match between the nation\’s darling Chigusa Nagayo and enemy of the people Dump Matsumoto — a legendary women\’s pro wrestling match that is still talked about to this day. Follow the lives of girls who were once nobodies, witness the sheer excitement they sparked, and discover what these wrestlers, who fought with all their might through a bygone era, are asking us in the present day.\”

    Described as a “fictional story based on real people and real events,” The Queen of Villains blends dramatic storytelling with elements of Matsumoto’s life. The series delves into her journey, highlighting the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated wrestling industry.

    QOV promises to combine intense wrestling action with introspective storytelling, making it a highly anticipated release for wrestling fans and those intrigued by women’s contributions to sports history.

    Stay tuned for our continued coverage of The Queen of Villains, premiering September 19, 2024 on Netflix.