Author: Mike Reichlin

  • WWE 2K26: Jelly Roll Confirmed with 80 Overall Rating

     WWE and 2K Games unveiled the full roster ratings for WWE 2K26 on Thursday, and as is tradition, the numbers wasted no time igniting passionate debate across social media.

    The highly anticipated ratings reveal — hosted by Joe Tessitore, Big E, and Kevin Owens — covered the entire playable roster ahead of the game\’s March 13, 2026 release on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

    Jey Uso Rated Above AJ Styles

    Among the more talked-about ratings, Jey Uso checked in at an 91 overall, placing him above veterans like AJ Styles, a placement that drew mixed reactions online.

    While Uso has undeniably been one of WWE\’s hottest babyfaces over the past year, many fans questioned whether the \”Main Event\” star\’s stock has truly surpassed that of \”The Phenomenal One,\” who has logged over two decades of elite in-ring work across multiple major promotions.

    Jelly Roll Outranks Established Superstars

    Perhaps no rating generated more conversation than that of celebrity addition Jelly Roll, the Grammy-nominated rapper and country singer confirmed as a playable character in the game\’s Celebrities category.

    The Nashville-born artist was assigned an 80 overall — higher than several full-time, full-time roster members, including rising star Je\’Von Evans, who received a 78.

    \”The Young OG\” has been building momentum on WWE\’s main roster with notable victories over names like Rey Mysterio and AJ Styles. Fans and fellow WWE talent alike took to social media to express frustration, with many arguing that a performer logging nights in the ring week in and week out deserves recognition over a celebrity appearance, regardless of how beloved Jelly Roll may be.

    Another Year…

    Ratings controversies are essentially a WWE 2K rite of passage at this point. Every year, the reveal cycle generates its own wave of debates, memes, and hot takes — and in many ways, that engagement is part of the fun.

    With Super John Cena rated a perfect 100 overall in the game, and the full roster now public, fans will have plenty to dissect between now and launch day.

    WWE 2K26 hits shelves and digital storefronts on March 13, 2026.

  • Jey Uso Attacked on SmackDown Before Elimination Chamber

    Jey Uso was attacked backstage by an unknown assailant before the February 27, 2026, edition of WWE SmackDown at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky — just 24 hours before he was scheduled to compete in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match.

    The Attack & SmackDown Opening

    Before SmackDown even went on the air, WWE posted a photo and video on Instagram showing officials and other WWE stars surrounding a Superstar on the ground, appearing to have been put through part of the backstage set. WWE issued the following official statement: 

    \”BREAKING: Emergency medical personnel have been called backstage minutes before SmackDown. Reports are that a WWE Superstar was attacked backstage, but have yet to be confirmed.\” 

    As the show went live, it was revealed to be Jey Uso who was attacked and left for dead. Uso was loaded onto a stretcher and into an ambulance, with his cousin Jacob Fatu at his side, demanding that SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis find the attacker.

    The atmosphere backstage was described as chaotic in the immediate aftermath. The attacker\’s identity remains unknown at this time.

    Jey Uso\’s participation in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber on February 28, 2026, is now seriously in question. The match features six competitors — Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, LA Knight, Trick Williams, Je\’Von Evans, and Uso — with the winner earning a shot at Drew McIntyre\’s Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42.

    Social media speculation has already begun over whether a replacement — such as Oba Femi or a returning superstar — could be inserted into the match should Uso be deemed unable to compete.

  • WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 Start Times Around the World

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 takes place this Saturday, February 28 live from Chicago, Illinois. The event streams exclusively on the ESPN App in the United States and on Netflix internationally, with a scheduled start time of 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

    For fans tuning in from around the globe, here is a full breakdown of local start times:

    • Chicago (US): 6:00 PM
    • Toronto (Canada): 7:00 PM
    • São Paulo (Brazil): 9:00 PM
    • London (UK): 12:00 AM (Sunday)
    • Paris (France): 1:00 AM (Sunday)
    • Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): 3:00 AM (Sunday)
    • Mumbai (India): 5:30 AM (Sunday)
    • Sydney (Australia): 11:00 AM (Sunday)

    Elimination Chamber is one of WWE\’s marquee premium live events, traditionally serving as a key stop on the road to WrestleMania. This year\’s event is presented by DoorDash and hosted in Chicago for the first time.

    Stay with SEScoops for live results and full coverage of WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 throughout the night.

  • WWE 2K26 Soundtrack: Full 16-Song List Revealed

    WWE 2K26\’s official soundtrack has been unveiled, featuring 16 tracks spanning rock, metal, punk, and hip-hop from a diverse lineup of artists.

    The full WWE 2K26 soundtrack is as follows:

    • \”Dull\” – Turnstile
    • \”Two Faced\” – Linkin Park
    • \”Reckless\” (feat. Denzel Curry) – Hanumankind
    • \”Extral\” – Jennie
    • \”Diamonds and Guns\” – Transplants
    • \”When Worlds Collide\” – Powerman 5000
    • \”Anything > Human\” – Bad Omens x Erra
    • \”Cruising to Self Soothe\” – Ecca Vandal
    • \”Qué Más Quieres\” – The Warning
    • \”Party Hard\” – Andrew W.K.
    • \”Bender\” (feat. Travis Barker) – The Paradox
    • \”Lie Between the Lines\” – Better Lovers
    • \”The Black Curtain\” – Gatecreeper
    • \”Man Made of Meat\” – Viagra Boys
    • \”Upside Down\” – Ho99o9
    • \”Heathens\” – The Mistakes

    The list features some notable names, including Linkin Park — who recently returned with a new lineup — as well as K-pop star Jennie of BLACKPINK fame making a solo appearance on the tracklist. Travis Barker of Blink-182 appears as a featured artist alongside The Paradox on \”Bender.\”

    The official WWE 2K26 soundtrack is available to stream now on Spotify and Apple Music.

  • Elimination Chamber 2026 Betting Odds: Favorites & Underdogs

    With WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 set for this weekend in Chicago, oddsmakers at BetOnline have updated their lines for the event\’s 4 matches. While there are no guarantees, the numbers paint a pretty clear picture of what bettors are expecting.

    Men\’s Elimination Chamber Match

    In the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, Cody Rhodes is a heavy favorite at -400, meaning you\’d need to bet $400 just to win $100. Randy Orton is the second choice at +225, followed by LA Knight at +425. The longest shots in the match are Trick Williams (+1600), Je\’Von Evans (+1400), and Jey Uso (+1100) — all massive underdogs according to the betting market.

    Women\’s Elimination Chamber Match

    The Women\’s Elimination Chamber is considerably more competitive. Rhea Ripley is favored at -155, but Tiffany Stratton is right behind her at +110 — essentially a coin flip between those two. Alexa Bliss checks in at +525, while Raquel Rodriguez (+900), Asuka (+1400), and Kiana James (+2000) round out the field as significant underdogs.

    World Heavyweight Championship Match

    In the World Heavyweight Championship match, CM Punk is an overwhelming -5000 favorite over Finn Bálor (+1000) — one of the most lopsided lines you\’ll see on any wrestling card. The market is giving Bálor almost no chance of walking out with the gold.

    Women\’s Intercontinental Championship Match

    The most intriguing individual match may be the WWE Women\’s Intercontinental Championship bout. AJ Lee is favored at -275 over Becky Lynch (+185) — a notable line given Lynch\’s star power, suggesting the market expects Lee to leave with the title.


    Of course, betting odds reflect public money and expectations — not spoilers. But for fans trying to gauge how Elimination Chamber storylines might play out, these numbers offer a revealing look at what people are willing to put their own money behind.

    For the full match card and event details, check out our WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 preview.

  • Nick Gage Returning to GCW for 1 Night Only at 2300 Arena

    Game Changer Wrestling has officially announced that Nick Gage — will make a one-night return to the promotion on Saturday, May 2, when GCW presents GCW One Night Only at the 2300 Arena (formerly the ECW Arena) in South Philadelphia.

    The event is set to air live on Triller TV, with tickets on sale now at 2300arena.showare.com/GCWPresentsONENIGHTONLY.

    The announcement, made by GCW with the tagline \”The King Is BACK,\” is tremendous news for Gage\’s fans, in light of his personal struggles throughout last year.

    A Year of Hardship and Recovery

    2025 was one of the most difficult years in Nick Gage\’s personal life. The Deathmatch King\’s longtime partner, Sondra Culbertson, passed away in April 2025 at the age of 43 after 26 years together.

    Shortly after making a surprise return at GCW Homecoming on August 23rd — helping Shotzi Blackheart fend off Matt Cardona — Gage competed one final time at Focus Pro\’s My Friends Over You event on September 20th before disappearing from the scene entirely.

    In October 2025, GCW owner Brett Lauderdale confirmed the news that many fans had feared: Gage had entered a long-term treatment program. \”Nick Gage will not be attending any shows for the foreseeable future,\” Lauderdale wrote at the time. \”He is currently in treatment (and has been for several weeks) and plans to stay indefinitely.\”?

    Then, on October 1st, Gage reportedly came face-to-face with death before his recovery took hold.?

    \”The King Is Back\”

    By late December 2025, the tone had shifted dramatically. Lauderdale took to social media to share photos of a healthy-looking Gage and a stirring update on his progress. \”On Oct 1st, this guy was face to face with death,\” Lauderdale wrote.

    \”In less than 3 months, the turnaround is shocking & remarkable. This is what it looks like when you break free from decades of addiction and finally start believing in yourself. The king is back and I couldn\’t be more proud MDK.\” Lauderdale also credited WWE Hall of Famer Sean \”X-Pac\” Waltman for his role in assisting Gage\’s recovery.?

    For full details on Gage\’s health journey, read SEScoops\’ coverage:

    MDK All Day, Every Day

    Gage, 45, is widely considered the face of Game Changer Wrestling. A three-time GCW World Champion, his career highlights include a nationally televised match against Chris Jericho on AEW Dynamite in July 2021 and a title-winning victory over Jon Moxley in a Title vs. Career match.

    His story, including a five-year prison stint from 2011–2016 for bank robbery, was documented in an acclaimed 2021 episode of Dark Side of the Ring.

    Event Details:

  • Bobby Lashley: Healed, Ready to Target AEW Trios Titles

    Bobby Lashley says he is healed and ready to return to AEW. Lashley last competed at AEW Full Gear in November 2025 and was sidelined due to an undisclosed injury.

    MVP announced Lashley\’s injury on the December 13 episode of AEW Collision. Speaking to Monopoly Sports, Lashley declared his fitness to return to the ring after MVP announced his injury. Lashley hinted at going after the AEW Trios titles with Shelton Benjamin and MVP, stating:

    “We’re ready go back out there and win some titles.’ I am healed. Everybody thought I was hurt. I’m not hurt. You can’t hurt the Almighty,” Lashley said.

    The AEW Trios titles are currently held by Hangman Page, Kevin Knight, and Speedball Mike Bailey.

    Lashley signed a two-year contract with AEW in October 2024, and the time missed due to injury is expected to be added to the contract.

  • ESPN Unlimited Now Free for Xfinity Subscribers

    Xfinity subscribers can now authenticate on the ESPN app at the Unlimited tier, giving WWE fans access to the platform just in time for Saturday\’s Elimination Chamber premium live event.

    The rollout comes as WWE\’s second PLE of 2026 approaches, with authentication completing ahead of the marquee event. However, not all pay-TV providers are on the same timeline — YouTube TV subscribers are still waiting due to lingering technical work.

    Other providers are already up and running. Charter Spectrum, DirecTV Stream, Hulu Live, and Fubo have all completed the necessary authentication work and are fully active on the platform.

    YouTube TV subscribers hoping to watch WWE programming through the app are still without a firm launch date. YouTube TV access is expected this year, but that could be another 10 months away.

    For those unfamiliar with ESPN\’s tiered access structure, WWE premium live events are available at the ESPN Unlimited level. The lower ESPN Select tier is largely comprised of content previously available on ESPN+.

  • WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 Preview: Final Card, How to Watch

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 is now fully set, with the complete card locked in following this past Monday\’s WWE Raw. We\’ve got two marquee title matches, plus both the Men\’s and Women\’s Chamber fields are now complete ahead of the event this Saturday, February 28, at the United Center in Chicago.

    Updated Elimination Chamber 2026 card

    MatchStipulation
    CM Punk (c) vs. Finn BálorWorld Heavyweight Championship
    Becky Lynch (c) vs. AJ LeeWomen\’s Intercontinental Championship
    Randy Orton vs. LA Knight vs. Cody Rhodes vs. Je\’Von Evans vs. Trick Williams vs. Logan PaulMen\’s Elimination Chamber (WrestleMania 42 title shot)
    Rhea Ripley vs. Tiffany Stratton vs. Alexa Bliss vs. Asuka vs. Kiana James vs. Raquel RodriguezWomen\’s Elimination Chamber (WrestleMania 42 title shot)

    Elimination Chamber 2026 Confirmed Participants

    • Men\’s Chamber: Randy Orton, LA Knight, Cody Rhodes, Je\’Von Evans, Trick Williams, Jey Uso
    • Women\’s Chamber: Rhea Ripley, Tiffany Stratton, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Kiana James, Raquel Rodriguez

    Men\’s Chamber

    • Randy Orton qualified on SmackDown in a Triple Threat match against Solo Sikoa and Aleister Black.
    • LA Knight qualified on Raw in a Triple Threat match against Penta and Austin Theory.
    • Cody Rhodes qualified on SmackDown (Feb. 13) in a Triple Threat match against Jacob Fatu and Sami Zayn.
    • Je\’Von Evans qualified on Raw (Feb. 16) in a Triple Threat match against Gunther and Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio.
    • Trick Williams qualified on SmackDown (Feb. 20) in a Triple Threat match against Damian Priest and Carmelo Hayes.
    • Jey Uso qualified on Raw (Feb. 23) in a Triple Threat match against Bronson Reed and El Grande Americano. Reed was removed from the match after suffering an apparent arm injury during the bout.

    Women\’s Chamber

    • Tiffany Stratton qualified on SmackDown in a Triple Threat match against Chelsea Green and Lash Legend.
    • Rhea Ripley qualified on Raw in a Triple Threat match against Lyra Valkyria and Ivy Nile.
    • Alexa Bliss qualified on SmackDown in a Triple Threat match against Women\’s United States Champion Giulia and Zelina.
    • Asuka qualified on Raw (Feb. 16) in a Triple Threat match against Bayley and Nattie.
    • Kiana James qualified on SmackDown (Feb. 20) in a Triple Threat match against Charlotte Flair and Nia Jax, pulling off an upset victory.
    • Raquel Rodriguez qualified on Raw (Feb. 23) in a Triple Threat match against IYO SKY and Kairi Sane.
  • WWE Announces 11 New Raw, SmackDown Dates for 2026

    WWE has announced eleven new Raw and SmackDown live event dates for 2026, with tickets going on sale Friday, March 6 at 10am local time in each market.

    Here are all 11 newly announced dates:

    • Friday, April 24 – SmackDown | Dickies Arena | Fort Worth, Texas
    • Monday, April 27 – Raw | Sames Auto Arena | Laredo, Texas
    • Friday, May 1 – SmackDown | BOK Center | Tulsa, Oklahoma
    • Monday, May 4 – Raw | CHI Health Center | Omaha, Nebraska
    • Friday, May 8 – SmackDown | Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena | Jacksonville, Florida
    • Monday, May 11 – Raw | Thompson-Boling Arena | Knoxville, Tennessee
    • Friday, May 15 – SmackDown | Colonial Life Arena | Columbia, South Carolina
    • Monday, May 18 – Raw | First Horizon Coliseum | Greensboro, North Carolina
    • Friday, May 22 – SmackDown | Rupp Arena | Lexington, Kentucky
    • Monday, June 15 – Raw | CFG Bank Arena | Baltimore, Maryland
    • Friday, June 19 – SmackDown | T-Mobile Center | Kansas City, Missouri

    Tickets for all events are available via Ticketmaster, with the Kansas City date available through AXS.

  • Cody Rhodes Reacts to the \’Cody Sucks\’ Chants

    Cody Rhodes is addressing the growing number of arenas where the crowd isn\’t fully in his corner – and he\’s taking it in stride. Much like he refers to himself as the \”Quarterback\” of WWE, Rhodes used a sports analogy to describe his current standing with live audiences across the country.

    During a Wednesday appearance on ESPN\’s Unsportsmanlike podcast, the American Nightmare explained how another sports analogy helps him process the fact that fans won\’t always cheer for his success.

    \”I\’m in a funky spot as a wrestler on the show now where not every game is a home game anymore,\” Rhodes said.

    \”I started getting some, \’Let\’s go Cody, Cody sucks.\’\”

    Rhodes also shared a memorable backstage moment from a recent tour stop in Germany, where veteran Bobby Roode gave him a heads-up before he headed to the ring.

    \”Bobby Roode walked up to me backstage. He goes, \’They just showed you on the screen. It\’s going to be an away game,\’\” Rhodes recalled. \”I thought, \’Alright.\’ The energy is all that matters, so it\’s not a thing.\”

    Some Markets Still Firmly Behind Rhodes

    Despite the mixed reactions in certain venues, Rhodes noted that key markets remain solidly in his camp.

    \”There are places like Florida and there\’s places like Texas, it\’s like, \’Ah, still feel good. We\’re cool. We\’re cool still,\’\” he said.

    The candid comments come at an interesting time for The American Nightmare. Rhodes recently lost the Undisputed WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre in a Three Stages of Hell match in January 2026, and has been navigating a complicated road back toward WrestleMania 42.

    Some crowds have grown resistant to seeing him back in the title picture, making the \”away game\” dynamic very much a real factor heading into the spring.

    Rhodes has repeatedly stated his intention to remain a babyface despite the pressure, though he acknowledged on a recent podcast episode that a heel turn is something he may eventually need.

    For now, he appears content to embrace whatever energy the crowd brings — home game or not.

  • 8 Elimination Chamber Winners Who Lost at WrestleMania

    Winning an Elimination Chamber match is often seen as a guaranteed path to WrestleMania success. However, history shows that for some WWE Superstars, winning the Chamber only led to heartbreak on the grandest stage of them all.

    In reality, all it does it guarantee an opportunity.

    WrestleMania Losses After Elimination Chamber Wins

    In recent years, the stipulation has been that the winner of Elimination Chamber goes on to challenge the World champion who was not selected by that year\’s Royal Rumble winner. However, past Chamber matches have been for the championship itself.

    Here are eight Superstars who won an Elimination Chamber match but ultimately failed to leave WrestleMania with the gold.

    • In 2008, Edge won the World Heavyweight Championship at No Way Out (also known as Elimination Chamber 2008) but lost it at WrestleMania 24 to The Undertaker.
    • Randy Orton retained the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the 2014 Elimination Chamber but lost it at WrestleMania 30 to Daniel Bryan in a Triple Threat match.
    • Bray Wyatt won the WWE Championship in the 2017 Elimination Chamber but lost it at WrestleMania 33 to Randy Orton.
    • Alexa Bliss retained the Raw Women’s Championship in the 2018 Elimination Chamber but lost it at WrestleMania 34 to Nia Jax.
    • Daniel Bryan retained the WWE Championship in the 2019 Elimination Chamber but lost it at WrestleMania 35 to Kofi Kingston.
    • Shayna Baszler won the 2020 women’s Elimination Chamber match by eliminating all opponents but lost to Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 36.
    • Asuka won the 2023 women’s Elimination Chamber but lost to Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 39.
    • Roman Reigns won the 2018 Elimination Chamber (First Blood Match) but lost to Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 34.

    Join us here this weekend at SEScoops for our coverage of WWE Elimination Chamber 2026.

  • Fred Ottman (Typhoon) Home After Surgery, Begins Recovery

    WWE Hall of Famer Fred Ottman — known to fans as Typhoon — has shared a positive update following his recent surgery, confirming he is home and beginning his road to recovery.

    Ottman posted a video to his Facebook page after being discharged, revealing that doctors kept him under observation for additional days due to the complexity of the procedure. He is now home with wife Sheila and has home health care in place.

    \”They released me from the hospital yesterday,\” Ottman said. \”They kept me in the hospital an extra couple of days for observation because the surgery was pretty tough. But, I\’m home with my beautiful wife Sheila, and I got home health care coming in checking on me today, and then will become the road to recovery, which ought to take a while I believe.\”

    https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HnkCgD6jP

    A Long Road Ahead

    Ottman\’s recovery is expected to be lengthy. During his nearly 30-day hospital stay, he suffered significant muscle loss and has been working to relearn how to walk. Despite the difficult road ahead, his spirits appeared high in the video update.

    \”But I just wanted to keep you guys in the loop, and thanks for all the prayers and all the thoughts and everything and the cards and letters that have been sent to me. God bless you, each and everyone. I really appreciate the support. You know, you\’re my extended family so I just wanna keep you in here. All right, I love you and I won\’t bother you no more. Have a great day.\”

    Background on Ottman\’s Health Crisis

    As previously reported by SEScoops, Ottman revealed earlier this month that he had been hospitalized for approximately 30 days after his gallbladder exploded, releasing toxins throughout his body. Doctors told his wife that had he waited just one more day to seek treatment, he likely would not have survived.

    This was also not Ottman\’s first recent health scare — in September 2025, friend and fellow WWE legend Leilani Kai revealed he had previously undergone vascular surgery.

    Ottman was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2025 as part of The Natural Disasters alongside his late tag team partner Earthquake (the late John Tenta). During his career, he also portrayed the beloved Tugboat character and the infamous Shockmaster in WCW.

    We wish Fred and his family all the best as he continues his recovery.

  • TNA iMPACT Tonight (2/26/26): Start Time, Card & How to Watch

    TNA Thursday Night iMPACT airs tonight (Thursday, February 26, 2026) from The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tennessee, live on AMC and AMC+ starting at 9 PM ET / 8 PM CT.

    TNA continues its weekly programming with a loaded episode in the wake of No Surrender. Tonight\’s show features TNA World Champion Mike Santana teaming with X-Division Champion Leon Slater, a Mickie James AMC debut, and a sit-down with Steve Maclin. Here\’s everything you need to know including start times, how to watch, and the full card.

    How to Watch TNA iMPACT Tonight

    DateThursday, February 26, 2026
    VenueThe Pinnacle, Nashville, Tennessee
    Channel/StreamAMC / AMC+ / TNA+
    US Start Time9 PM ET / 8 PM CT / 6 PM PT
    Canada Start Time8 PM ET on Sportsnet 360
    UK Start Time2 AM GMT (Friday)
    India Start Time7:30 AM IST (Friday)
    Duration2 hours

    TNA iMPACT Match Card for February 26, 2026

    Here are the matches and segments announced for tonight\’s show:

    Leon Slater & Mike Santana vs. Nic Nemeth & Ryan Nemeth

    Two of TNA\’s top champions collide on the same team tonight as X-Division Champion Leon Slater partners with TNA World Champion Mike Santana against the Nemeth brothers. Frankie Kazarian — who recently signed a new TNA contract at No Surrender — joins Tom Hannifan on commentary, adding another layer of intrigue to the match. Nic Nemeth still holds his Call Your Shot trophy, keeping his future championship opportunity very much in play.

    Eight-Man Tag Team Match: The Hardys & The Righteous vs. The System: Matt Hardy, Jeff Hardy & The Righteous vs. The System

    The Righteous extended an olive branch to Matt and Jeff Hardy, apologizing for the communication breakdown that cost the Hardys at No Surrender, and the legendary duo accepted. The System\’s Brian Myers has already warned the Hardys not to trust their new allies — so whether The Righteous have truly turned a corner remains to be seen when all eight men collide tonight.

    Jada Stone vs. Tasha Steelz

    This rivalry has been steadily boiling over, fueled by Order 4\’s controversial interference in their previous tag team match. Tonight they settle things one-on-one, with no team dynamic to hide behind.

    AJ Francis vs. Mance Warner (w/ Steph De Lander)

    The backstage attack at No Surrender — where Warner went after Francis in his private room — set this one up. Steph De Lander is expected to be a major factor at ringside, so Francis will need to keep his head on a swivel both in and outside the ring.

    Dani Luna vs. Léi Ying Lee (w/ Xia Brookside)

    This matchup has been a long time coming. Originally scheduled when Lee held the Knockouts Championship and Luna was the number one contender, visa issues forced a delay. Tonight the two finally get to settle what should have happened months ago, with Xia Brookside in Lee\’s corner.

    Appearances

    Steve Maclin Sit-Down Interview

    Steve Maclin breaks his silence tonight in a sit-down with Tom Hannifan. After recent chaos surrounding his character, all eyes will be on what Maclin has to say about what comes next.

    Mickie James & Ash By Elegance Face-Off

    TNA Hall of Famer Mickie James makes her AMC debut tonight and is set to confront Ash By Elegance following the shocking attack at No Surrender. It\’s a marquee moment for TNA\’s new home on AMC.


    Follow SEScoops for live coverage and results from tonight\’s TNA iMPACT on AMC.

  • Bronson Reed Issues First Post-Injury Message

    Bronson Reed has broken his silence following the torn biceps injury he suffered on WWE Raw, vowing to return “better than ever” in his first public comment since the setback.

    “Big” Bronson Reed took to X on Wednesday evening to thank fans for their support and promise a destructive comeback after suffering a distal biceps tear on the February 23 episode of WWE Raw. Reed tweeted:

    “Appreciate the kind words. I’ll be back better than ever, causing destruction like no one else can!”

    The post marks Reed’s first message since he was injured during an Elimination Chamber qualifying Triple Threat Match against Jey Uso and The Original El Grande Americano, when he hurt his arm attempting to break up a pinfall.

    The prior day, he posted a meme indicating he’ll be out for a while.

    Details On Reed’s Injury

    During Raw, lead announcer Michael Cole revealed that Reed had suffered a distal biceps tear and would be out of action indefinitely. The injury occurred late in the match, with Reed rolling to the floor and being examined by medical personnel while the finish was adjusted without him.

    Reed has reportedly been sent to Birmingham, Alabama, where he is expected to undergo surgery for the torn biceps. A distal biceps tear often requires a multi-month recovery, putting Reed on the shelf during a crucial stretch of WrestleMania season.

    Impact On WWE Plans

    Reed’s injury is another blow to The Vision, the faction already dealing with the absences of Bron Breakker and Seth Rollins due to their own injuries. Reed was believed to be in line for a major role in the Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 42 storylines before the injury forced WWE to change creative plans on the fly.

  • British Bulldog\’s WWE Hall of Fame Ring Stolen

    Diana Hart Smith has issued an urgent plea to the wrestling community after a thief broke into a trailer belonging to her son Davey Boy Smith Jr. and made off with a number of irreplaceable items — including the British Bulldog\’s WWE Hall of Fame ring.

    In an Instagram post, Diana Hart Smith revealed the incident occurred early in the morning and that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have been called, confirming the theft took place in Canada. She urged fans to contact any Hart family member if they have information that could help recover the stolen items.

    \”Please help us find Harry\’s things that were stolen from him. This is horrible for him!\” Diana wrote. \”Please contact any Hart family member if you have any information helping find his most personal valuables.\”

    https://www.instagram.com/dianahartsmith

    What Was Stolen

    According to Diana\’s post, the following items were taken from the trailer:

    • \”The British Bulldog\” Davey Boy Smith Jr.\’s wrestling gear and travel bag
    • Hart Foundation leather vest
    • British Bulldog WWE Hall of Fame ring
    • Gold chain and jewelry
    • CWE (Canadian Wrestling\’s Elite) Tag Team Championship Belt

    Why These Items Are Irreplaceable

    The WWE Hall of Fame ring is among the most significant items stolen. The original British Bulldog, Davey Boy Smith — Harry\’s father — was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame posthumously in 2020, nearly two decades after his passing in 2002. The ring represents not just an honor bestowed upon one of wrestling\’s most beloved figures, but a deeply personal family heirloom passed down to his son.

    The Hart Foundation leather vest carries similar historical weight. The Hart Foundation — one of wrestling\’s most iconic stables — is a cornerstone of the Hart family legacy that Diana Hart Smith has spent decades protecting. Davey Boy Smith Jr. has continued that legacy in the ring, most recently competing in Major League Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling.

    The post was notably liked by the official @thebritishbulldogwwe Instagram account, which is run by Georgia Smith, Harry\’s sister, underscoring the family\’s deep concern over the theft.

    Anyone with information on the stolen items is urged to reach out to a member of the Hart family directly.

  • Timothée Chalamet Credits WWE as \”Hugely Influential\” to Acting Career

    Timothée Chalamet has opened up about the unexpected source of inspiration behind his acting career — professional wrestling. During a CNN/Variety Town Hall aired February 21 alongside Matthew McConaughey, the Oscar-nominated star of Marty Supreme described WWE as \”hugely influential\” to his development as a performer.

    Asked by a student audience member whether wrestling had shaped his approach to acting, Chalamet didn\’t hesitate. \”Hugely. Professional wrestling for me was sort of a guidepost growing up because I wanted to be an athlete, I just didn\’t have the skill, the body, the physique, the speed,\” he said. \”WWE and professional wrestling was somewhere in the middle. It was like the titans — our athletes, both men and women — but with this showmanship and storytelling.\”

    Chalamet pushed back on the common criticism that wrestling is scripted, drawing a distinction between predetermined outcomes and the real physical toll on performers. \”It\’s planned, it\’s scripted, it\’s fake some people say — but the blows are real. The bruises are real.\”

    Greek Theater, The Boogeyman, and Sabu

    The Dune and A Complete Unknown star waxed philosophical about wrestling\’s deeper appeal, comparing it to ancient performance traditions. \”Not to get too pretentious, but almost in a Greek theater setting — the archetypes that these guys represent,\” he said. \”I loved a wrestler named The Boogeyman and he was just archetypally nightmarish.\”

    Chalamet also paid tribute to ECW legend Sabu, who passed away in May 2025 at the age of 60 just weeks after wrestling his retirement match. \”When I listen to those old WWE clips or this guy Sabu who just passed away this past year, his entrance theme,\” Chalamet said, his reverence clearly genuine.

    He also revealed that earlier the same day, he had shown McConaughey a Kevin Nash entrance video — an especially fitting moment given that Nash appeared alongside McConaughey in Magic Mike (2012). \”I showed [Matthew McConaughey] a Kevin Nash entrance video because he did Magic Mike with Kevin Nash,\” Chalamet explained.

    WWE Is \”Of the People\”

    Chalamet connected his passion for wrestling to a broader point about WWE\’s cultural identity, name-dropping Bad Bunny and IShowSpeed as examples of the company\’s mainstream pull. \”I just feel like it\’s of the people, no matter how cheesy that sounds,\” he said. \”WWE is more of an Americana thing. New York\’s got a lot of love for WWE.\”

    Bad Bunny has been one of WWE\’s most celebrated celebrity crossovers, headlining Backlash 2023 in Puerto Rico in what many consider the greatest celebrity match in company history. Chalamet\’s comments suggest he views that kind of crossover appeal as central to wrestling\’s enduring power.

    This isn\’t the first time Chalamet has publicly gushed about WWE. He previously appeared on Cody Rhodes\’ What Do You Wanna Talk About? podcast in late 2025, where he dove deep into his love of wrestling with The American Nightmare.

    When asked what his wrestling name would be, Chalamet had a ready answer: \”The French Fool.\”

    The CNN/Variety Town Hall, filmed before a live audience at the University of Texas at Austin\’s Moody College of Communication, is now available to stream in full on Variety\’s YouTube channel.

  • WWE Surpasses UFC in Annual Revenue for First Time Under TKO

    WWE has officially surpassed UFC in annual revenue for the first time since the two properties merged under TKO Group Holdings, according to the company\’s fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings report released today.

    WWE generated $1.709 billion in revenue for fiscal 2025, a 22% increase year-over-year. UFC posted $1.502 billion for the same period — putting WWE $207 million ahead of its sister promotion. It marks a milestone that would have seemed unlikely when TKO was first formed in 2023.

    WWE Revenue by Category

    The full-year breakdown tells the story of a company firing on every cylinder. Media rights, production and content crossed the billion-dollar threshold for the first time, reaching $1.000 billion — up $135.1 million (+18%) year-over-year. That growth was driven primarily by WWE\’s landmark deals with Netflix (Monday Night Raw) and ESPN, which came into effect in 2025 and represent a major step up in rights fees from the prior USA Network arrangement.

    Live events and hospitality — the category that most closely reflects Premium Live Event and house show performance, including ticket revenue and site fees — reached $412.8 million, up $74.3 million (+22%) from 2024. That\’s the largest revenue category outside of media rights, and its growth reflects both higher ticket prices and WWE\’s expanding international PLE calendar.

    Partnerships and marketing was the fastest-growing segment, jumping $76.6 million to $159.6 million — nearly doubling year-over-year. New sponsorship deals and renewals at higher rates drove the increase, a sign that advertisers and brand partners are placing significant value on WWE\’s expanded reach through Netflix and ESPN.

    Consumer products licensing and other came in at $136.4 million, up $25.3 million (+23%), rounding out a year of broad-based revenue growth across every line item.

    WWE Profitability: Now Outpacing UFC

    WWE\’s Adjusted EBITDA — a key measure of operating profitability — climbed 32% to $896.5 million in 2025, up from $681.1 million. The Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 52%, up from 49% the prior year.

    In a remarkable reversal, WWE now out-earns UFC in absolute profit dollars. UFC\’s Adjusted EBITDA was $851.0 million — still elite at a 57% margin, but $45 million behind WWE\’s dollar figure. UFC had long been considered the financially dominant half of TKO\’s portfolio.

    Q4 2025: The PLE Timing Factor

    WWE\’s Q4 results highlight how much the international PLE calendar can swing quarterly numbers. Live events and hospitality revenue fell $24.8 million in Q4 compared to the prior year, which TKO attributed directly to holding one fewer international Premium Live Event in the quarter. That\’s a meaningful data point: a single international PLE is worth in the range of $20–25 million to WWE\’s top line.

    Despite that headwind, WWE\’s Q4 revenue still grew 21% overall, powered by the $64.9 million surge in media rights revenue — the Netflix and ESPN deals running at full strength for the first time. Partnerships and marketing added another $13 million in Q4, and consumer products grew $8.2 million.

    WWE\’s Q4 Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 46%, up from 38% in Q4 2024 — a 8-point improvement in a single quarter, even while absorbing higher talent costs.

    TKO\’s Overall 2025 Performance and 2026 Outlook

    On a consolidated basis, TKO posted full-year revenue of $4.735 billion and Adjusted EBITDA of $1.585 billion — a 47% EBITDA increase year-over-year. Free cash flow reached $1.159 billion. The company returned more than $1.3 billion to shareholders through buybacks and dividends during the year.

    For 2026, TKO is targeting $5.675–$5.775 billion in revenue and $2.240–$2.290 billion in Adjusted EBITDA — roughly 20% top-line growth. The company also announced plans to launch up to $1 billion in share repurchases beginning in March 2026.

    \”2025 was a milestone year, underscoring the durability of our premium IP through record-setting live events and transformational global partnerships,\” said TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro. With WWE\’s media rights agreements fully in effect and the international PLE slate continuing to grow, the financial trajectory heading into WrestleMania season looks as strong as it ever has.

  • WWE Tryout Attendee Regina Tarin Makes UFC Debut This Saturday

    A familiar name from WWE\’s January Performance Center tryout is stepping into the Octagon this Saturday — and she\’s doing it on short notice.

    Regina Tarin, the undefeated Mexican MMA fighter who attended WWE\’s Performance Center tryout during the week of January 12, will make her UFC debut at UFC Mexico City on February 28 when she faces Ernesta Kareckaite in a 130-pound catchweight bout on the prelims.

    Tarin stepped in as a last-minute replacement for Sofia Montenegro, who withdrew from the flyweight bout for undisclosed reasons. The news was first reported by Eurosport\’s Marcel Dorff.

    From the Performance Center to the Octagon

    Nicknamed \”Kill Bill,\” the 21-year-old from Mexico City is one of the most hyped undefeated prospects in women\’s MMA. She holds a perfect 7-0 professional record with six finishes — four knockouts and two submissions — having competed for Combate Global and the Budo Sento Championship, where she won the women\’s bantamweight title.

    It was at WWE\’s January 2026 tryout camp — the same one where John Cena served as a promo coach — that Tarin documented her time at the Performance Center on social media, noting she was the only Mexican fighter invited. She confirmed she would continue pursuing MMA regardless of any WWE interest.

    On Instagram, Tarin reacted to her UFC call-up with characteristic confidence:

    \”God\’s plans are perfect and good people always have good things happen. This Saturday is my debut in UFC Mexico people. I\’m going to give it all I\’m ready and it\’s my time.\”

    A Poetic Twist: Montenegro Connection

    There\’s an added layer of storyline to Tarin\’s debut. She was originally booked to compete on Dana White\’s Contender Series in 2025 — but her team pulled her from that fight in a bid to secure a direct UFC contract. Montenegro stepped in and took her slot on that card. Now, with Montenegro withdrawing from UFC Mexico City, Tarin has gotten an even bigger stage than the one she originally walked away from.

    The MMA-to-WWE pipeline has a proven track record. Ronda Rousey became one of WWE\’s biggest stars, and Shayna Baszler parlayed her MMA credibility into a long run in NXT and on the main roster. With her natural charisma, undefeated record, and the \”Kill Bill\” nickname ready-made for a wrestling persona, Tarin clearly has the tools that caught WWE\’s attention.

    For now, her focus is Saturday night in Mexico City. UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Kavanagh airs live on Paramount+ in the United States.

  • AEW Star Pulled From Dynamite, Indie Dates Due to Health Issue

    An AEW veteran has been pulled from tonight\’s Dynamite and a series of independent bookings this week due to a health issue.

    According to PWInsider, Eddie Kingston is not present at tonight\’s AEW Dynamite & Collision taping at Mission Ballroom in Denver. The Mad King has been dealing with severe migraine headaches and is tending to his health.

    Beyond missing tonight\’s show, Kingston has also withdrawn from his scheduled independent appearances this weekend. P

    ro Wrestling Junkies confirmed he was set to lead a seminar alongside Ortiz and participate in a meet & greet, but will no longer be attending. The promotion announced that all meet & greet ticket money will be fully refunded, with Ortiz offering to run the seminar free of charge.

    Significant Timing for Kingston

    The missed dates carry added weight given where Kingston is in his career. He has publicly stated that 2026 will be his final year working the independent circuit, with plans to step away from indie bookings entirely by November. He and Ortiz are also working toward opening a wrestling school together.

    There is no timetable given for Kingston\’s return, but AEW and the wrestling community will hope the veteran is back on his feet quickly.

  • AEW Dynamite Tonight (2/25/26): Start Time, Card & How to Watch

    AEW Dynamite: Mile High Madness airs tonight (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) from Mission Ballroom in Denver, Colorado, live on TBS and HBO Max starting at 8 PM ET.

    All Elite Wrestling returns to the Mile High City for a pivotal Road to Revolution episode. Tonight\’s card is headlined by MJF and Hangman Adam Page deciding the stipulation for their AEW World Championship match at Revolution on March 15, plus a chaotic 10-man Mile High Madness Anything Goes match and an AEW Women\’s World Tag Team Championship defense. Here\’s everything you need to know.

    How to Watch AEW Dynamite Tonight

    DateWednesday, February 25, 2026
    VenueMission Ballroom, Denver, Colorado
    Channel/StreamTBS / HBO Max
    US Start Time8 PM ET / 7 PM CT / 5 PM PT
    UK Start Time1 AM GMT (Thursday)
    India Start Time6:30 AM IST (Thursday)
    Duration2 hours

    AEW Dynamite Match Card for February 25, 2026

    Here are the matches and segments announced for tonight\’s show:

    MJF & Hangman Adam Page Finalize the Revolution Stipulation

    Last week, Hangman Adam Page proposed a Texas Death Match at Revolution — with the monumental caveat that if he loses, he will never challenge for the AEW World Championship again. Page carries a 5-1 record in Texas Death Matches in AEW, his only loss coming to Swerve Strickland at Full Gear 2023. Tonight, MJF must respond. Whatever stipulation is agreed upon, the stakes for Hangman have never been higher.

    Mile High Madness – Anything Goes (10-Man Tag Team Match): FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler), Ricochet & Gates of Agony (Bishop Kaun & Toa Liona) vs. Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson), Jungle Jack Perry & The Rascalz (Dezmond Xavier & Zachary Wentz)

    The Young Bucks have unfinished business with FTR after the AEW World Tag Team Champions crossed the line on Collision. Tonight, the Bucks team with Jungle Jack Perry and the Rascalz for a no-holds-barred 10-man brawl in Denver. With FTR\’s tag title defense against the Bucks looming at Revolution, expect this to escalate fast.

    Non-Title: AEW Continental Champion Jon Moxley vs. El Clon

    The war between the Death Riders and the Don Callis Family spills into singles action tonight. AEW Continental Champion Jon Moxley faces El Clon in a non-title match, looking to rebound after the Callis Family picked up a trios win on Collision. With Moxley\’s match against Konosuke Takeshita set for Revolution, tonight is a critical tune-up heading into the PPV.

    Brody King vs. Mark Davis

    After coming up short in his AEW World Championship bid against MJF at Grand Slam Australia, Brody King has vowed to work his way back to the top. Standing in his way tonight is Mark Davis, who has struggled to find consistent footing in singles competition. King is expected to make a statement in Denver.

    AEW Women\’s World Tag Team Champions The Babes of Wrath (Willow Nightingale & Harley Cameron) vs. MegaBad (Megan Bayne & Penelope Ford) w/ Lena Kross

    The Babes of Wrath defend the AEW Women\’s World Tag Team Championships in a rubber match against MegaBad. The challengers get added reinforcement in new AEW signee Lena Kross, who debuted at Grand Slam Australia by attacking the champions after their successful defense. Nightingale and Cameron will need to account for Kross at ringside if they hope to retain.

    Orange Cassidy vs. Gabe Kidd

    Gabe Kidd made a surprise return on Collision alongside Clark Connors and immediately set his sights on Orange Cassidy following recent interference. Tonight, Kidd gets his opportunity to make an impact in what promises to be a hard-hitting clash heading into Revolution.

    Road to AEW Revolution 2026

    AEW Revolution 2026 takes place Sunday, March 15, 2026.

    Tonight is the ninth episode of the 11-week build to Revolution and one of the final major Dynamites before the PPV.

    With the World title stipulation being finalized, the Mile High Madness match adding fuel to the FTR/Young Bucks war, and Moxley gearing up for Takeshita, Denver could be the most important stop on the Road to Revolution yet.


    Follow SEScoops for results and coverage of all the news developments from tonight\’s AEW Dynamite.

  • Elio LeFleur Wins WWE Speed Championship in Triple Threat

    Elio LeFleur defeated Jasper Troy and Eli Knight in a Triple Threat match on the February 24 edition of WWE NXT to become the new WWE Speed Champion.

    The match was a special seven-minute Speed Championship Triple Threat due to the format, announced by Interim NXT General Manager Robert Stone.

    LeFleur pinned Jasper Troy to win the title, ending Troy\’s reign at 106 days.

    The first-ever Triple Threat match for the WWE Speed Championship saw Eli Knight and Elio LeFleur work together at points to neutralize Troy’s power advantage. LeFleur\’s victory marks his first WWE title.

    Prior to signing with the promotion, he built his reputation across the European independent wrestling scene under the name Aigle Blanc.

  • Dynamite Kid\’s Daughter Launches WWE Hall of Fame Petition

    The daughter of Thomas \”Dynamite Kid\” Billington, Bronwyne Billington, has launched a petition on Change.org urging WWE to induct her father into the Hall of Fame. The petition highlights Dynamite Kid\’s career in Stampede Wrestling, his unforgettable matches in Japan, and his run in WWE as part of the British Bulldogs.

    Bronwyne Billington\’s Plea

    Bronwyne Billington created the petition on November 17, 2025, and it currently has 834 signatures. Dynamite Kid passed away on December 5, 2018 — his 60th birthday — at the age of 60.

    Bronwyne Billington shared an emotional message about her father. \”Losing my father, known to the world as The Dynamite Kid, was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. As his eldest child, I carry his memory in my heart every day. His contributions to the world of professional wrestling were not only significant, but revolutionized the industry as a whole,\” she said.

    Dynamite Kid\’s Legacy

    Widely regarded as one of the most influential in-ring performers of his era, Dynamite Kid captured the WWF Junior Heavyweight Championship in 1984, becoming the first British wrestler to hold a singles title in the then-WWF.

    His legendary matches in Japan — most notably against Tiger Mask in New Japan Pro-Wrestling — are considered among the greatest in wrestling history, with his 1982 bout earning Wrestling Observer\’s Match of the Year.

    His legacy continues to be cited by modern stars who credit him for shaping the athletic, hard-hitting style seen in wrestling today. With the petition now circulating, the question becomes whether WWE will respond to the renewed public call for recognition.

  • Randy Orton Previews His 10th Elimination Chamber Match

    Randy Orton enters Saturday\’s Men\’s Elimination Chamber match in Chicago as the most experienced man in the structure — and he\’s not shy about using that edge.

    Appearing on ESPN\’s Get Up, Orton broke down the field ahead of the six-man match, which determines who challenges Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42. This will be his record 10th Elimination Chamber appearance.

    \”10 Elimination Chambers is a lot of Elimination Chambers. My body\’s been beaten up all over that ring and that chamber, man — it is unforgiving. But I take a lot of experience with myself into that chamber, and I\’m going to use it this Saturday and I\’m going to win the thing and go to WrestleMania.\”

    Orton on the Field: Respect for the Young, History With Cody

    The confirmed participants alongside Orton are Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, Trick Williams, and Je\’Von Evans, with one spot still to be determined. Evans earned his spot on Raw with a win over Dominik Mysterio, and Orton acknowledged what the rising star brings to the table.

    \”Javon Evans — he\’s an amazing athlete. I\’ve been in there with him before. Trick Williams, same goes for him. Both those guys are awesome. But Cody Rhodes and I have quite the history. So it\’s going to be an interesting night.\”

    The remark about Rhodes is purposefully understated. The two have a layered rivalry spanning years, and their shared presence inside the Chamber adds a secondary storyline to an already loaded match.

    Experience as the Great Equalizer

    No one in the match comes close to Orton\’s ten Chamber appearances. He\’s framing that experience not as wear and tear, but as an advantage — a vault of institutional knowledge about how to pace, how to survive, and when to strike.

    It\’s a case that carries weight. Orton qualified for the match on SmackDown with an RKO to Solo Sikoa in a triple threat that also included Aleister Black — a reminder that The Viper still finds ways to win when it matters most.

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 takes place Saturday, February 28 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois at 7 PM ET on the ESPN App.

  • IC Title Match, Roman Reigns Returns Next Week on Raw

    WWE has loaded up the March 2 edition of RAW at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana with a stacked lineup that includes a title match, a heated grudge match, a major return, and a confrontation that could reshape the Road to WrestleMania.

    Roman Reigns Returns — And CM Punk Is Waiting

    Roman Reigns is set to make his return on the March 2 episode of RAW. The appearance immediately raises the stakes for the night, as CM Punk has strongly hinted that he intends to take the fight directly to Reigns — and sooner rather than later. A Punk-Reigns confrontation would be one of the most anticipated moments heading into WrestleMania season.

    Intercontinental Title on the Line

    Dominik Mysterio will defend the Intercontinental Championship against Penta El Zero Miedo. Penta earned the opportunity by defeating El Grande Americano on the February 16 episode of RAW, setting up what will be their third encounter for the title — Dominik having successfully turned him away twice before. Dominik originally reclaimed the IC Title at Survivor Series with an assist from Liv Morgan, after previously dropping the championship to John Cena on November 10.

    Dragon Lee vs. Gunther

    The card also features Dragon Lee going one-on-one with Gunther in what promises to be a hard-hitting grudge match. The rivalry between the two has been building, and with WrestleMania on the horizon, this clash carries real implications for both men\’s trajectories heading into WWE\’s biggest event of the year.