SEScoops

Author: Mike Reichlin

  • John Cena Teases WWE Return: \”I\’ve Been Gone for Too Long\”

    John Cena says he\’s been gone from WWE for too long and hopes to return sometime in the near future.

    The 16-time world champion was in NYC on Wednesday for Warner Bros. Discovery\’s upfronts event, where TV networks pitch their upcoming lineups to prospective advertisers. Cena was on hand to promote the new season of his game show Wipeout that airs on TBS.

    \"John

    John Cena Talks WWE Return

    Street journalist Adam Glyn caught up with Cena on Wednesday and addressed the upcoming 20th anniversary of John Cena\’s WWE television debut.

    Cena\’s WWE debut took place on the June 27, 2022 edition of SmackDown, when he answered an open challenge by Kurt Angle. Even though he came up short that night, he earned the respect of The Undertaker, who greeted him backstage and shook his hand in a sign of respect.

    Cena says he knows the 20th anniversary milestone is fast approaching.

    \”I know in WWE years I turn 20 pretty soon, so that\’s a pretty big thing, and from a pretty storied class of folks: Batista, Randy Orton, Brock who kind of all turned 20 this year,\” said Cena I\’m aware that that\’s coming around the corner — and who knows?\” 

    Cena still loves wrestling, but he\’s got a lot of projects going on and it\’s hard to turn down opportunities that present themselves.

    That said, Cena admits he\’s been gone for \”too long\” and hopes to be back in the mix with WWE sooner than later.

    \”I don\’t know when I\’ll be back but hopefully it\’s soon. I\’ve been gone for too long.\”

    – John Cena

    Cena\’s most recent televised match occurred last year at SummerSlam, when he lost to Roman Reigns. Back in September, as last year\’s \’Summer of Cena\’ was winding down, he competed in a 6-man tag match at Madison Square Garden house show. Cena and the Mysterios defeated The Bloodline.

    What\’s Next for Cena?

    If and when John Cena does return to WWE, he\’s got a high-profile feud waiting for him. Theory, the reigning United States Champion, has been talking about Cena a lot lately.

    Below, you can check out some of our recent coverage of Theory calling out Cena:

  • CM Punk, Bayley & More Sound Off on Sasha Banks & Naomi Situation

    The hot topic of the day remains Sasha Banks and Naomi walking out during Monday\’s WWE Raw broadcast due to unhappiness with the creative direction of their characters.

    As details emerge about what transpired behind the scenes at Raw, fans and wrestlers alike are sounding off about who they feel is right and wrong.

    On Tuesday afternoon, former Matt Cardona (former WWE Superstar Zack Ryder) posted a tweet mocking Sasha Banks and Naomi\’s decision to forfeit their tag titles at Raw.

    Cardona referenced his infamous 2012 WWE storyline that saw Kane push him (and his wheelchair) off the Raw stage. He wrote, \”If I could go back in time…the night I was pushed off the stage in a wheelchair on Raw, I should have walked into Johnny Ace\’s office…placed my neck brace on the table and walked out because I wasn\’t being respected enough as Internet champion.

    Talent Supports Sasha Banks

    AEW stars CM Punk and Dax Harwood of FTR expressed their support for Sasha Banks and Naomi.

    CM Punk replied to Matt Cardona and told him, \”If you\’d go back in time to stand up for yourself, you should stand up [for] the workers now.\”

    Meanwhile, Harwood encourages his followers to \”ALWAYS\” stand up for what you belive in. He included a photo of Banks giving him a big hug.

    Finally, Sasha Banks’ longtime friend and former tag team partner Bayley provided this quote:

  • Another New ROH Logo Revealed by Trademark Application

    We have an updated look at two new Ring of Honor logos.

    ROH Acquisition Co., LLC, an entity based out of AEW headquarters at 1 TIAA Bank Field Drive in Jacksonville, Florida, submitted a trademark application with the US Patent & Trademark office on May 6.

    The \”word mark\” usage for this logo includes:

    Entertainment services in the nature of live wrestling performances; Entertainment services in the nature of production of television shows and multimedia entertainment content featuring wrestling programs and events; Entertainment services, namely, an ongoing multimedia program featuring wrestling distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media over a Global Computer Network.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Cda07M-uY6T/

    Update: ROH Acquisition Co., LLC filed another trademark application on May 12th or the following alternate logo:

    ROH Acquisition Co., LLC

    The entity also filed to trademark the phrase, \”Ring of Honor.\” The Goods and Services description includes the following:

    \”Entertainment services in the nature of live wrestling performances; Entertainment services in the nature of production of television shows and multimedia entertainment content featuring wrestling programs and events; Entertainment services, namely, an ongoing multimedia program featuring wrestling distributed via various platforms across multiple forms of transmission media; over a global computer network or via a global computer.\”

    The New ROH Logo

    SEScoops\’ Fernando Quiles Jr. was first to report that a new Ring of Honor logo was on the way.

    Prior to being acquired by Tony Khan, Ring of Honor\’s previous owners had a new logo designed and a total rebranding in the works that would represent the company’s \”new chapter\” after Supercard of Honor.

    ROH had a new company logo set to debut at Supercard of Honor. The logo was used on digital assets, ring skirts and turnbuckle pads. However, none of those were used at the event.

    The new ROH regime, leg by Tony Khan, wanted to use the \”classic\” logo at Supercard of Honor, to represent the final chapter of the previous era of ROH.

    It\’s unknown if this new ROH logo is the one that was going to be used at Supercard of Honor, or if Khan\’s team created this entirely new logo for the company\’s new direction.

  • Becky Lynch Attacked Cody Rhodes After WWE Raw (Video)

    Becky Lynch attempted a physical attack on Cody Rhodes after Monday\’s WWE Raw went off the air.

    Rhodes is currently embroiled in a heated feud with Lynch\’s husband, Seth Rollins. When the American Nightmare came out for his dark match main event, Big Time Becks couldn\’t contain herself.

    Lynch competed against Asuka in the main event of Raw. The winner would become the #1 contender to Bianca Belair\’s Raw Women\’s Championship. Asuka got the victory and Lynch was left with a face full of green mist.

    During Rhodes\’ ring entrance, he was confronted by Lynch, who attacked him with a flurry of punches and kicks – none of which landed.

    You can see footage of the incident here:

    Cody went on to defeat Seth Rollins in the dark match main event of the evening. The third (and likely final) televised match between these two will take place at Hell in a Cell on Sunday, June 5th.

    After Becky Lynch made it backstage, she was interviewed by WWE\’s digital team. As seen below, she wasn\’t in the best mood about how things transpired on Raw:

  • Seth Rollins Fires Back at Booker T Saying He \”Made it to the Top Easily\”

    Seth Rollins is taking issue with Booker T\’s remarks about him on Monday\’s edition of the Raw Talk post-show.

    On Raw, WWE announced that Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins will \”run it back\” with another match at the upcoming Hell in a Cell premium live event.

    Booker T believes Rollins needs the win more than Rhodes does. He argue that Rhodes never had it easy in his career, unlike Rollins, who made it to the top \”relatively easy\” and \”had a lot of help\” along the way.

    \”Seth Rollins is a guy that made it to the top relatively easy, but I must say, he had a lot of help. Cody had to break himself down and rebuild himself, and that\’s the Cody Rhodes we see today.\”

    – Booker T

    Seth Rollins Fires Back

    Rollins was caught off guard by Booker T\’s interpretation of his career path. He said, \”this narrative is false\” and touted the dues he paid en route to joining WWE.

    \”I started wrestling at 18 years old in back rooms of bars, in pole barns, at UAW Halls, the occasional parking lot.\” said Rollins. \”Lost money. Broke bones. Drove countless hours alone just to build a name that got erased the second I walked in the WWE door.\”

    Rollins did, in fact, have a lengthy career before making it to WWE in 2010. Prior to landing at Florida Championship Wrestling, WWE\’s former developmental territory, Rollins competed for many independent promotions across the United States.

    As Tyler Black, Rollins worked for IWA Mid-South, NWA Midwest, Full Impact Pro, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla and Ring of Honor, where he won the ROH World Championship.

    You can see Booker T\’s original comments and Seth Rollins\’ reply here:

  • Zachary Wentz Issues Statement Addressing Hitler Photo

    Zachary Wentz (Former WWE/NXT Superstar Nash Carter) has issued a statement addressing a photo of himself impersonating Adolph Hitler that surfaced online last month.

    Wentz was released in April 2022 after an online spat with his then-wife brought up allegations of physical abuse and also the incriminating photo.

    On Monday, Wentz issued issued the following statement on Twitter:

    A statement by Zachary Green.

    “No words can truly describe how ashamed and apologetic I am for my conduct in the photograph. There is no excuse for such behavior and I take full responsibility for my actions and ask for forgiveness. This picture was taken in 2015, a time where I was uneducated on the topic and therefore didn\’t understand the magnitude of how hurtful it was. In 2020 someone was trying to extort me by threatening to post it on social media. sent it to my wife to discuss the situation. Apparently, she kept it and then decided in retaliation for the filing of the divorce to post it to social media. Regardless how the photograph came to light, there is still no excuse for my actions.

    “Over the past month I have taken time to reflect on my conduct to which I express my utmost remorse and regret. I have spent time off social media to refresh and re-educate myself about of the horrors of the Holocaust. I truly do hope that this situation will teach and bring awareness to the horrific tragedy that took place so that something like this will never happen again. I can assure you that this is not who I am or what I represent as a human being, and I feel it is never too late to educate and better yourself.

    “If you are ever in the Orlando/Maitland area, take some time to visit the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida where you can learn about the history and depth of what took place. It was an incredibly eye-opening, and impactful experience that teaches the importance of this history.”

    Nash Carter Takes First Booking Since WWE Release

  • Cody Rhodes Shocked by Legend\’s Reaction to His Neck Tattoo

    • Cody Rhodes surprised top people in WWE haven\’t mentioned his neck tattoo
    • \’American Nightmare\’ temporary tattoos will soon be on sale at WWE Shop
    • \”People now see it as an extension of me. That’s what it is.\”

    Wrestling fans will soon be able to show their love for Cody Rhodes with an official WWE \’American Nightmare\’ temporary tattoo.

    Rhodes shocked the world in February 2020 when he appeared at AEW Revolution looking a bit different than fans were used to. As he made his way to the ring, we got a first glimpse at the ink in all its red, white & blue glory.

    Some people ridiculed the neck tattoo, while others embraced Cody\’s latest bold act of self expression. It was a controversial decision by Cody, to say the least. However, he didn\’t get this far by playing by the rules and doing what people expect of him.

    \"Cody
    Cody Rhodes\’ neck tattoo

    Cody Rhodes brought the neck tattoo and his American Nightmare branding along with him when he returned to WWE last month at WrestleMania 38. His ring entrance features a giant CGI American Nightmare logo, while his merchandise is all based around the signature American winged skull.

    During a new interview with Sports Illustrated, Cody revealed to Justin Barrasso that the backstage reaction to his neck tattoo has been surprisingly silent.

    “Vince hasn’t said anything about the tattoo,\” said Cody. I’ve been waiting for some of these guys who knew me back in the day to say something, specifically Bruce [Prichard] and Michael Hayes. Even Randy [Orton] hasn’t said anything, and that was a shock to me because I wasn’t a tattoo guy and he was covered. But it’s a good thing to have.\”

    \”Temporary tattoos are going to be released by WWE Shop, and people now see it as an extension of me. That’s what it is.\”

    – Cody Rhodes on his neck tattoo

    Cody said he is a different person today than he was during his previous WWE run, which ended in May 2016. He knows he was undeveloped back then and was searching for himself.

    \”Now, I’m reaching my final form,\” said Rhodes. \”That’s why I am sticking to my guns about my character, keeping it as close as possible to who I am. But I’ll promise you this: I’m not getting another one.\”

    Head over to Sports Illustrated to read Justin Barrasso\’s complete interview with WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes.

    We\’ll provide an update when the American Nightmare temporary tattoo is available at WWE Shop.

  • Maki Itoh Returning to the US Ahead of AEW\’s Wild Card Wednesday

    Maki Itoh is teasing that her next match will take place in the United States.

    The self-proclaimed Cutest Wrestler in the World is the reigning International Princess Champion for Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling. She tweeted on Sunday that she\’s returning to the US soon.

    Itoh wrestled a handful of matches for All Elite Wrestling in 2021. At AEW Revolution 2021, Maki Itoh teamed with Dr. Britt Baker against the team Thunder Rosa and Riho.

    This Wednesday on AEW Dynamite, Britt Baker will battle a mystery opponent in the quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Foundation women\’s tournament.

    The timing of Maki Itoh\’s announcement about returning to the US has some fans speculating that she will be revealed as Baker\’s opponent at \’Wild Card Wednesday.\’

    \"Britt

    Back in January, Maki Itoh vowed to return to AEW. After winning the International Princess Championship, she said, “With this belt, Ito will definitely go to AEW! And I’ll fight Thunder Rosa one more time. And Ito will definitely win!”

    She added, “There are many, many more attractive people in the world. So Ito wants to beat them one by one with this belt.”

    Thunder Rosa, who currently holds the AEW Women\’s World Championship, welcomed another opportunity to share the ring with Maki Itoh.

  • Jeff Hardy Says \”It\’s Going To Be Exciting\” When Willow Returns

    Jeff Hardy continues to tease that we haven\’t seen the last of his alter ego, Willow.

    Hardy portrayed Willow during the early days of his wrestling career. He brought Willow to TNA Wrestling back in 2014, as seen below.

    Hardy has referenced the dark and mysterious spirit several times over the past few months.

    In September, Hardy said he was talking with the artist who created the Willow mask about reviving the gimmick at one more time before retirement.

    In November, Hardy pitched the idea of bringing back Willow as an artsy Bob Ross character, similar to Bray Wyatt\’s The Fiend.

    Since then, Hardy left WWE and joined AEW, where he\’d have more creative freedom to explore Willow in a new environment.

    Jeff Hardy Bringing Willow to AEW?

    On the latest episode of the AEW Unrestricted podcast, Jeff Hardy was asked if we could see Willow in All Elite Wrestling.

    The Charismatic Enigma says, \”Yes, of course there is\” a chance Willow could appear in AEW. He scoffed at the idea of Willow being aligned with the House of Black, but assured fans that Willow is a part of him.

    \”When he comes out to play, he comes out and it’s going to be exciting.\”

    – Jeff Hardy on Willow in AEW

    Jeff Hardy joined AEW back in March. Since then, he\’s reunited with his brother and the Hardys are now gearing up for a feud with the Young Bucks. The teams are expected to square off at the upcoming AEW Double or Nothing pay-per-view later this month.

    You can listen to Jeff Hardy on the AEW Unrestricted podcast:

  • Details On Ric Flair\’s Rumored Return Match Involving FTR

    Wrestling legend Ric Flair has been back in the ring as of late. The 73-year-old Hall of Famer is taking bumps and showing fans that he can still \”go.\”

    He isn\’t just hitting the ropes for old time\’s sake. Ric Flair is reportedly training for an in-ring return, despite his advanced age and recent health issues.

    Flair has been training with former ROH World Champion and AEW star, Jay Lethal.

    Ric Flair\’s Return to the Ring

    The word going around is that Ric Flair will compete in a 6-man tag team match that would see him aligned with FTR. Their opponents would be The Rock \’n Roll Express and a mystery partner.

    Whether or not this match ever comes together remains to be seen. There are several ways where this plan could fizzle out, including Flair\’s health and the \’business\’ side of the equation. At this stage, this should be considered a rumor – but it\’s definitely being talked about amongst people in the industry.

    Ric Flair retired back in 2008 when he lost to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24. He\’d go on to wrestle several more times, including the \”Hulkamania: Let The Battle Begin\” tour of Australia in November 2009 and for Impact Wrestling (2011). Flair made several wrestling appearances last year, including for WWE, AAA and the NWA.

    Outside the ring, Flair has remained very active on the fan convention circuit. He\’s also launching a new NFT collection (WoooooThings) and a line of cannabis products with boxing icon \”Iron\” Mike Tyson.

    He\’s also been involved in a nasty feud with Becky Lynch and wants to manage former WWE Superstar Cesaro (Claudio Castagnoli), wherever he shows up next.

    Say what you want about Ric Flair, and there\’s a lot to say, but he shows no signs of slowing down. The man who was once known as the Dirtiest Player in the Game remains one of the sport\’s most talked about figures.

  • Rick Boogs Injury Update: Ahead of Schedule a Month After Surgery

    Rick Boogs has provided an update on the torn quad he sustained at WrestleMania 38.

    At the time, doctors told him his quad was \”too strong for the tendon\” and it was flexing so hard, it ripped the tendon totally off the bone. The heavy metal heavyweight underwent surgery in the week following the injury.

    Early estimates had him away from the ring for 6-12 months.

    \"Rick

    Rick Boogs Injury Update

    On Saturday morning, Boogs posted a \”recovery update\” video detailing his current status.

    \”I\’m just doing machines at the gym, like a cookie-cutter right now, that\’s all I can do,\” said Boogs. \”I can\’t use the lower extremity, you know what I\’m saying, the horse leg, I\’ve gotta let that puppy heal.\”

    Boogs says he\’s ahead of schedule on his physical therapy and is eager to test the horse power of the repaired horse leg. He\’s also keeping his fanny pack stuffed with fig bars.

    Watch Rick Boogs\’ latest injury update here:

    In the days following his quad tear, Rick Boogs to address the injury and assured fans he will come back bigger, better and stronger.

    “From the highest of highs to lowest of lows. Having my beautiful wife with me to experience my first Wrestlemania,\” he wrote on Instagram. \”Getting the incredible opportunity to open the show! Being able to demonstrate brute strength in front of millions of viewers! Unfortunately, the doctor told me my quad was too strong for the tendon and it was flexing so hard, it ripped the tendon totally off the bone. I’m still incredibly grateful for the experience and for all the love and support. History proves I will come back bigger, better, and stronger. IT’S A MINDSET.”

  • (Spoilers) MLW Kings of Colosseum Results from Philadelphia (5/13/22)

    Major League Wrestling returned to Philadelphia, PA on Friday night for the latest MLW Fusion TV tapings from the 2300 Arena.

    Here are the spoiler results from MLW Kings of Colosseum 2022, courtesy of Pro Wrestling.net: 

    Gangrel defeated Budd Heavy via pinfall. 

    National Openweight Champion Alex Kane and Davey Richards went to a 20-minute time limit draw. Afterwards, while Kane was attacking Richards, Myron Reed came out for the save but then joined in on the beatdown and aligned with Kane.

    Lince Dorado, Taya Valkyrie and Microman defeated Arez, Holidead and Mini Abismo Negro. After the match the heels, the babyfaces were getting beat down which brought out The Blue Meanie and later The Sandman to make the save.

    Los Maximos defeated two local wrestlers.

    Middleweight Champion Myron Reed defeated KC Navarro and Arez via pinfall.

    MLW World Heavyweight Champion Alexander Hammerstone retained against Richard Holliday.

    The Samoan Swat Team defeated Los Aztecas via pinfall. Afterward, nZo attacked Fatu, who was at ringside.

    Taya Valkyrie beat Holidead via submission to become the inaugural MLW Women’s Featherweight Champion.

    “Hustle and Power” Calvin Tankman & EJ Nduka defeated “5150” Rivera & Hernandez and Ross Von Erich & Marshall Von Erich in a three-way via pinfall to retain the MLW Tag Team Championships. After the match, Los Maximos attacked the champs.

    nZo defeated Lince Dorado via pinfall.

    Brittany Blake defeated Zoey Skye via submission.

    Matt Cross defeated ACH via pinfall.

  • Starrcast Convention Returning for SummerSlam Weekend

    The popular Starrcast wrestling fan convention is returning this summer after a 3-year hiatus.

    On Friday, SEScoops received word that Starrcast V is headed to Nashville, Tennessee, from July 29th – 31st. This coincides with WWE SummerSlam weekend.

    The event will also be made available worldwide, exclusively on FITE.

    \"\"

    “The number one question I’ve gotten over the past three years, at live shows, on social media, or in interviews is, ‘When is the next STARRCAST,’ said STARRCAST founder and creator Conrad Thompson.

    \”I’m so happy I can finally answer; July 29th through the 31st at the beautiful Nashville Fairgrounds. As our Top Guys at AdFreeShows.com know, when my team and I get together on these events, our goal is to over-deliver for the fans, and the line-up and events we have scheduled for STARRCAST V will make it a can’t miss event for any wrestling fan.\”

    FITE COO Michael Weber also commented on partnering with STARRCAST once again

    “Having already worked with Conrad Thompson and his team on the previous four, very-successful STARRCAST events, FITE is excited to present STARRCAST V. The excitement that a STARRCAST event brings to those in attendance, and extending to those watching at home, is second-to-none,\” said Weber. \”I have fans to this day talk to me about re-watching the stage shows and events from the past STARRCAST events on FITE. We can\’t wait to be in Nashville to present what\’s going to be another historic event for professional wrestling fans.\”

    Starrcast tickets go on sale Friday, May 20th. For more information, visit Starrcast.com.

  • New Footage of Ric Flair Back in the Ring Taking Bumps

    Ric Flair was recently back in the ring and wants the world to know he can still \”do this.\”

    The 73-year-old living legend has been retired for years. Back in 2017, he was fighting for his life and in critical condition due to various health complications. He was placed into a medically-induced coma, but made a miraculous recovery.

    Try as you may, you can try to take the Nature Boy out of wrestling, but you can\’t take the love of pro wrestling out of Ric Flair.

    On Monday, Ric Flair posted a video on social media of himself taking bumps with AEW star Jay Lethal. Flair says he was inspired to show off his abilities after someone had the audacity to question if he can still \”go\” in the ring. He wrote:

    \”Someone had the audacity this weekend to ask me if I can still do this. I said \”Really??? Naitch don\’t play! WOOOOO!\”

    – Ric Flair

    Flair has publicly flirted with the idea of wrestling another match, as many retired pro wrestlers tend to do. We hope this never happens, but it\’s good to see Flair looking healthy enough to take a few bumps and relive what he spent so many years doing.

    Ric Flair Back in the Ring

    As seen below, Flair takes a few bumps, including a headlock takedown, a bodyslam and a running shoulder tackle. He also gets in some offense of his own, and what video of Ric Flair and Jay Lethal would be complete without a strut-off?

    Watch Ric Flair in the ring taking bumps at 73-years-old:

    Flair has uploaded another video of himself taking bumps in the ring with Jay Lethal. On May 11th, Flair released a video titled, \”Ric Flair vs. Jay Lethal Round 2\”

  • AEW Grand Slam Returning to Arthur Ashe Stadium This Year

    Tony Khan says AEW Grand Slam will return to Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, New York later this year.

    All Elite Wrestling is currently in New York for tonight\’s AEW Dynamite from the UBS Arena on Long Island, New York. It\’s sure to be a unique show, since Long Island is the one place on earth that MJF is celebrated as a hero, instead of the despicable worm that he is.

    Khan spoke with News 12 Long Island this week to promote Dynamite and said AEW Grand Slam will return to Arthur Ashe Stadium later this year.

    AEW Grand Slam Returning in 2022

    Tony Khan says the first AEW Grand Slam was a massive success that almost hit $1 million in ticket sales. AEW has since hit that mark twice, with the upcoming Double or Nothing and Forbidden Door PPV\’s.

    Khan believes the inaugural Grand Slam event was the beginning of a longterm partnership with the United States Tennis Association (USTA), which owns Arthur Ashe Stadium.

    \”Yes, I expect we\’ll be back to have Grand Slam, AEW Grand Slam, Dynamite and Rampage, back in Queens at Arthur Ashe Stadium again,\” said Khan. \”It was a huge success to everyone involved and it\’s all thanks to this great partnership with the USTA. They were so kind and I think it resulted in a big partnership.

    [Grand Slam] was almost the first million dollar gate in AEW history, just came shy of that, but it was real close and of course we set that record now, for AEW Double or Nothing Las Vegas, became our first million dollar gate for live tickets, and now just hit it again for our partnership with New Japan, for our Forbidden Door show at the United Center.

    So, we will be back, and it will be hopefully another huge success going back to Queens for AEW Grand Slam, Dynamite and Rampage, later this year, in 2022 again.\”

    Watch Tony Khan\’s full interview with News 12 Long Island:

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

  • Juice Robinson Was \”Lying to Gullible Idiots\” by Teasing NJPW Exit

    New Japan Pro Wrestling star Juice Robinson says he was just working fans online with his recent talk about leaving the company.

    Just a few weeks ago, Robinson said his contract extension with NJPW was set to expire at the end of April. He said, \”I will not be wrestling under the New Japan banner any longer” after then.

    We now know that was a premeditated lie. Robinson made a surprise appearance at NJPW Dontaku on May 1, joined the Bullet Club and attacked new IWGP United States Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi.

    \”Rock Hard\” Robinson spoke with the NJPW website this week and had a laugh at the expense of people who believed his talk of leaving NJPW.

    \”Not that I owe anyone any explanation, but I was never going to retire,\” said Robinson. \”That was just me lying to a bunch of gullible idiots. People believe that if they read something on the internet it has to be true. So all I had to say is make sure it landed on the internet, and everybody believed it, hook line and sinker.\”

    Robinson gets a shot at the IWGP United States Championship at the upcoming NJPW Capital Collision event from Washington, D.C. He\’ll compete in the 4-way title match involving Tanahashi (c), Jon Moxley and Will Ospreay.

    \"NJPW

    The Bullet Club\’s newest member says he will continue shaking things up for the faction, as Jay White has been doing.

    \”He got rid of dead weight and brought in new blood,\” Robinson said of White. \”That’s where I come in. I’m the booster for Bullet Club, and with me there, I see Bullet Club going right to the top of the wrestling world.\”

    Visit NJPW1972 to read their latest interview with Juice Robinson.

  • CM Punk Fed Up With \’Bad-Take Carnies\’ Critical of Today\’s Wrestling

    CM Punk is fed up with \”old-head, bad-faith, bad-take, carny dipshits\” who bury modern pro wrestling on their \”ego podcasts.\”

    There are countless wrestling legends with podcasts and radio shows, including Eric Bischoff, Jim Cornette, Bully Ray, Jim Ross, Tony Schiavone, Vince Russo, and Booker T, to name a few.

    Punk was specifically replying to Eric Bischoff, who has been a vocal critic of AEW. On a recent episode of his 83 Weeks podcast, Bischoff ranted about AEW\’s storytelling. He feels that AEW caters to a small segment of the wrestling audience, which is hindering their growth.

    Bischoff wrote on Twitter, \”Better storytelling = Growth If AEW ever wants to get the other 900 fans in the room, they\’ll need to stop booking for one small segment of the audience.\”

    CM Punk Fed up

    CM Punk is encouraging \’wrestling Twitter\’ to stop amplifying these legends.

    \”They had their moment in the sun. Let them die in the dark with their ego podcasts. Quote me.\”

    – CM Punk

    You can watch a 2-minute clip of Bischof\’s critique of AEW in the tweet embedded below, along with Punk\’s full tweet.

    Eric Bischoff has since replied to CM Punk\’s tweet about him.

    Bischoff quoted CM Punk talking about AEW signing him, Bryan Danielson and Adam Cole last year. Punk said:

    \”So, I’m not Hogan or Savage. Daniel Bryan and Adam Cole, they’re not The Outsiders, I see the parallels, but this is totally different. I’ll go ahead and say it and people can quote me and they’ll be p*ssed off about it, but to me, this is bigger.\”

    Bischoff now asks, \”How’s that working out?\”

  • Battle Slam: Vendetta Streams Free Tonight on Fite

    Wrestling fans across the world will soon have a chance to witness the premiere live event from the upstart Battle Slam promotion.

    Battle Slam: Vendetta premieres tonight, Tuesday May 10th, at 10pm EST. The show will stream for free at FITE.tv.

    The worlds of pro wrestling & hip-hop collide at Battle Slam: Vendetta. Witness world-class in-ring action featuring top Wrestlers from national TV and the independent circuit.

    There will also be live performances by Pastor Troy, Josiah Williams and more.

    Battle Slam: Vendetta Preview

    \"Battle

    The following matches are set for the first Battle Slam event:

    Prestige Wrestling Tag Team Championship:
    C4 (Cody Chhun & Guillermo Rosas) (c) vs The Infantry (Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo)

    Free Four All Eliminator:
    Angelica Risk vs Janai Kai vs Queen Aminata vs Robyn Renegade

    Open Challenge:
    Austin Green vs TBA

    Baron Black vs Lee Moriarty

    Leon Ruff vs Darius Martin

    Max Caster vs Myron Reed

    Fuego del Sol vs Alex Kane

    Shazza McKenzie vs Ashley D\’Amboise

    KC Navarro vs Shoot Taylor

    Plus, Lee Moriarty, Adam Priest, JDX, Zenshi, Chad Skywalker, and Baron Black are also set to appear.

  • WWE Raw Reactions (5/9/22): Getting Red Ep. 4

    Steve Fall is here for Episode 4 of Getting Red, featuring a recap of the May 9, 2022 edition of WWE Raw in a strange and unique way.

    Steve runs down the Good, the Bad and the What The Heck?! moments from this week’s Raw. Plus, we name the MVE: Most Valuable Entertainer.

    Check out the show below, Subscribe to the SEScoops YouTube Channel and be sure to leave a comment letting us know what you think.

  • MLW Kings of Colosseum \’22 Preview for This Friday

    Major League Wrestling returns to the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA this Friday for Kings of Colosseum \’22.

    This will be an MLW Fusion TV taping. If you\’re in the Philadelphia area, limited tickets are still available at MLW2300.com and at the 2300 Arena box office.

    The following matches are signed for the event:

    • World Heavyweight Champion Alex Hammerstone vs. Richard Holliday (with Alicia Atout)
    • Weapons of Mass Destruction Match: Jacob Fatu vs. Mads Krugger
    • Inaugural Women\’s World Featherweight Championship: Taya Valkyrie vs. Holidead
    • nZo vs. Lince Dorado
    • The debut of the Samoan Swat Team vs. Los Aztecas
    • World Tag Team Championship 3-Way: Hustle & Power vs. Von Erichs vs. 5150
    • National Openweight Champion Alex Kane vs. a mystery victim/opponent
    • Matt Cross vs. ACH
    • World Middleweight Champion Myron Reed vs. Arez vs. KC Navarro
    • Brittany Blake vs. Zoey Skye
    • Microman vs. Mini Abismo Negro

    Plus, appearances from Davey Richards, Cesar Duran, Gangrel, The Sandman, Blue Meanie and Savio Vega.

  • Bret Hart Advises AEW Talent, But is Happy at Home

    Bret Hart says he enjoys mentoring members of the AEW roster, but considers himself happily retired from the wrestling world.

    The Excellence of Execution spoke with Mike Dagger for Lucha Libre Online earlier this week. During the conversation, Hart spoke about rumors of him coming out of retirement to appear for All Elite Wrestling.

    Hart says he has no plans to appear on television any time soon. After a decades-long career that kept him on the road several hundred days per year, he\’s making up for lost time and spending as much time at home as possible.

    As he\’s said before, he wants to be remembered as a wrestler and is not interested in being a manager or authority figure.

    \”I\’m happy retired,\” said Hart. \”I\’m a \’home\’ guy now. There\’s not a lot I can do in wrestling. People say, \’What are you going to do? What would you do in AEW?\’ It\’s like, what would I do? Referee? Manage? Be a chairman? I don\’t want to be remembered that way. I want to be remembered as a wrestler.\”

    Bret Hart & AEW

    Bret Hart remains a hero to countless wrestlers throughout the industry. He\’s considered one of the greatest performers of all time and his legacy is still celebrated to this day.

    Hart says he keeps in touch with several wrestlers on the AEW roster. They call him and text him asking for advice about their matches and their careers.He enjoys giving back to the business in this way, but enjoys his time at home.

    \”I’d be happy to help a lot of them,\” he said about AEW talent. \”.. and I know a lot of them, and I talk to them, a lot of them sometimes, by text or on the phone, and people call me up and I always got advice and I can always pinpoint little things that can make a difference in a guy’s match or something he’s doing but, I’m a guy that likes being home. So, they’re gonna have to call me on the phone.\”

    He wishes he could still travel like he used to, but it\’s getting harder for him to fly around the country at this stage in life. That said, he respects AEW as an organization and will continue mentoring people remotley.

    \”There’s a lot of things I would love to be part of with AEW and what they’re doing. I know they’ve got some great wrestlers there and I have a lot of respect for the organization and all that but right now, I’m happy at home.\”

    Watch Bret Hart\’s interview with Lucha Libre Online:

  • WWE Smackdown Reactions (5/6/22): Getting Blue Ep. 3

    Steve Fall returns for another edition of Getting Blue, recapping the May 6, 2022 edition of WWE SmackDown in a strange and unique way.

    We run down SmackDown\’s Good, Bad and What The Heck?! moments.

    Plus, we’ll name the show\’s MVE (Most Valuable Entertainer).

    Subscribe to the SEScoops YouTube Channel and comment below to let us know what you think!

  • It\’s a Championship Contender’s Match, Not a \”Non-Title\” Match

    Certain words are not supposed to be used on WWE television. In fact, WWE has developed its own alternate verbiage for wrestlers and announcers.

    • They\’re not wrestlers, they\’re Superstars and Sports Entertainers.
    • They\’re not fans, they\’re members of the WWE Universe.
    • It\’s not a belt, it\’s a championship. (A belt holds up your pants!)
    • It\’s not a title match, it\’s a championship opportunity.

    Earlier this week, United States Champion Theory competed on Raw. His title was not on the line and the match was referred to as a \”non-title championship contender\’s match.\”

    Another one of these banned phrases has come to light. According to Dave Meltzer, \”non-title\” has been added to WWE\’s banned words list.

    “Well, they can’t say non-title. That’s a banned term.”

    – Wrestling Observer Radio

    Instead of non-title, these contests will be referred to as \”Championship Contender’s\” matches in the future.

    WWE Banned Words

    WWE has a long history of \”banned words\” and instituting its own jargon. Vince McMahon is a master of promotion and branding, so he knows what he is doing in this respect.

    A few times over the past few years, there have been leaks of lists WWE has sent to media partners about what not to say when discussing the product.

    This \”banned words\” list is not set in stone, but included \”insider\” terms such as kayfabe, babyface, heel, job/jobber, house show, push and \”over.\” There are also certain words related to violence, including head shot, trauma and curb stomp.

  • New AEW Reality Show Coming Soon to TBS


    All Elite Wrestling is bringing additional AEW programming to TBS.

    On Tuesday, select AEW fans received a survey announcing details of the show.

    The reality series will follow AEW talent and document their lives on the road. The official synopsis reads:

    \”AEW’s top performers are ushering in a new behind-the-scenes wrestling series like no other… Every episode will track our core cast on the road at AEW events as they try to hold onto the titles they have or win back the ones they’ve lost, with everything culminating at the biggest Pay-Per-View event of the year.

    They all hope to walk away champions, but there aren’t enough belts for everybody. Heroes will rise, villains will fall, champions will be crowned… and with more access, more star talent, and more drama than ever before, we’ll see it all through the eyes of the biggest names in the company.\”

    AEW is asking for feedback on what the show should be title. Suggested names for the new AEW reality show on TBS include:

    • AEW: FRIENDS AND ENEMIES
    • AEW: FIGHT TO THE FINISH
    • AEW: TO THE MAT
    • AEW: TO THE TOP
    • AEW: ROAD TO THE BELT
    • AEW: BREAKOUT
    • AEW: GRIT AND GLORY
    • AEW: All Access
    • AEW: THE CLIMB
    • AEW: ON THE ROPES
    • AEW: UPRISE

  • WWE Raw Reactions (5/2/22): Getting Red Ep. 3

    Steve Fall is back for Episode 3 of Getting Red, recapping the May 2, 2022 edition of WWE Raw in a strange and unique way.

    Steve and his guest Stephanie Hypes run down the Good, the Bad and the What The Heck?! moments from this week’s Raw.

    Plus, we name the MVE: Most Valuable Entertainer.

    Check out the show below, Subscribe to the SEScoops YouTube Channel and be sure to leave a comment letting us know what you think.