SEScoops

Author: Mike Reichlin

  • French High-Flyer Elio LeFleur Introduced During NXT

    WWE NXT introduced incoming wrestler Elio LeFleur via a vignette that aired during the New Year’s Evil special episode on Tuesday night.

    The promotional package hyped LeFleur as a dynamic French high-flyer coming soon to the brand, emphasizing his athletic, lucha-influenced wrestling style. The vignette showcased his aerial offense and positioned him as a fresh addition to NXT’s men’s division for 2026.

    https://x.com/wwe/status/2008714552943243407?s=46

    Elio LeFleur is the new ring name for French luchador Aigle Blanc, who signed with WWE after competing on the European independent wrestling scene. His character presentation maintains the stylish, high-flying approach and “white eagle” imagery carried over conceptually from his previous persona.

    The New Year’s Evil platform provided a strong introduction for the international signee, giving NXT audiences their first look at one of the brand’s newest acquisitions. LeFleur joins a growing roster of international talent helping strengthen NXT’s men’s division heading into 2026.

    https://x.com/eliolefleurwwe/status/1982089044956770442?s=46

  • Stephanie Vaquer Injury Update: Not Expected to Miss Significant Time

    WWE Women\’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer is working through an ankle injury but is not expected to take any significant time off, according to PWInsider Elite\’s Mike Johnson.

    Vaquer suffered the ankle injury during her Triple Threat championship defense on the January 5 episode of Raw against Raquel Rodriguez and Nikki Bella. She appeared on the show wearing a walking boot and cut an in-ring promo where she vowed the injury wouldn\’t stop her from continuing as champion.

    \”Stephanie Vaquer is a little banged up but not to the point she\’s expected to take any large amount of time off,\” Johnson reported.

    The injury was further incorporated into storyline when Rodriguez attacked Vaquer twice during the broadcast, targeting the injured ankle. Despite the legitimate injury, WWE is not expected to have Vaquer vacate the championship.

    The fact that Vaquer appeared in a walking boot rather than a full cast and was cleared to participate in physical segments is viewed as an encouraging sign. WWE may limit her in-ring action as she recovers while keeping the title on her heading into Royal Rumble on January 31.

    Vaquer has held the Women\’s World Championship since defeating IYO SKY at Wrestlepalooza on September 20, 2025.

  • Mick Foley Discusses Nostalgia, Touring, and Why \’Kindness Is Cool\’

    Mick Foley says he\’s embraced his role as a piece of wrestling fans\’ collective memories.

    In an interview with Orlando Weekly ahead of his \”40 Years of Foley\” show at the Funny Bone Comedy Club on January 6, the WWE Hall of Famer reflected on how nostalgia has shaped his connection with fans.

    \”Somewhere around 2010, I went from being washed up to being part of people\’s childhoods,\” Foley said. \”I\’m the same guy. I\’ve only gotten older, but I\’m no longer old and irrelevant. I\’m part of people\’s collective memories.\”

    The 60-year-old, who relocated to Orlando approximately a year ago to be closer to family, has been touring as a storyteller since 2009. His one-man show features humorous behind-the-scenes tales from his legendary career, including his iconic 1998 Hell in a Cell match against The Undertaker.

    \”I don\’t want to be the man who refuses to play his biggest hit,\” Foley said of discussing the infamous match. \”I don\’t want to deprive them of that.\”

    Foley noted he\’s been surprised by how many younger fans have discovered him through social media, despite retiring from in-ring competition over two decades ago.

    \”So many of my fans are children — kids who weren\’t even born until 15 years after the Hell in a Cell match,\” he said.

    As for the message of his show, Foley keeps it simple:

    \”The closest I get to making a political statement in the show is saying that kindness is cool.\”

  • TNA Signs BDE

    Popular YouTube content creator BDE has officially signed a contract with TNA Wrestling, the company confirmed today.

    BDE, whose real name is Brandon Collymore, has built a massive following with over 1.4 million YouTube subscribers through his wrestling-focused content. The New Jersey native began training with former TNA World Champion Sami Callihan in 2024 and made his in-ring debut in January 2025 with Wrestling Revolver.

    BDE in TNA Wrestling

    His TNA journey began at Bound for Glory 2025, where he competed in the Call Your Shot Gauntlet and impressed fans by countering AJ Francis\’ finisher into a cutter. He has since made multiple appearances on TNA programming, including the Christmas Surprise 10-Person Tag Match on the December 25 episode of Impact.

    BDE currently holds the Wrestling Revolver Remix Championship, which he won by defeating Francis in October 2025 — a victory that added fuel to their ongoing rivalry.

    \”I\’m so grateful to TNA for giving me this opportunity,\” BDE said when he first appeared for the company. \”Getting the chance to step into their ring for the first time, this early in my career, is something I\’ll never forget.\”

    BDE and the rest of the TNA roster will be in Dallas for two nights of action January 15 and 17, including the Genesis pay-per-view at the Curtis Culwell Center.

  • Netflix Officially Becomes Home of WWE Library in United States

    Netflix and WWE have announced an expansion to their long-term partnership that makes the streaming giant the official home of WWE\’s content library in the United States, effective immediately.

    The deal brings WWE\’s Premium Live Events catalog (prior to September 2025) to Netflix, including classic WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble events. Award-winning documentaries and original programming are also part of the expanded library. Past episodes of Monday Night Raw are now available as well.

    The announcement builds on WWE\’s move to Netflix in January 2025, when Monday Night Raw began streaming weekly on the platform. Since the transition, Raw has become a consistent presence in Netflix\’s global English Top 10.

    The library expansion arrives ahead of Season 2 of WWE: Unreal, the behind-the-scenes documentary series, which premieres on Netflix on January 20.

  • Stone Cold Steve Austin Says He Could Still Wrestle, Won\’t Rule Out Return

    Stone Cold Steve Austin has revealed that he is physically capable of returning to the ring, though he has no immediate plans to do so.

    The WWE Hall of Famer appeared on Insight with Chris Van Vliet for an in-depth interview from his Broken Skull Ranch in Nevada. When asked whether he could still compete, Austin provided a surprisingly candid response.

    CVV observed: \”You look like you could still go.\”

    Austin: \”I could,\” he confirmed.

    CVV: \”Would you?\”

    Austin: Probably not. I\’ll say that. But you never say never.\”

    Austin\’s comments come nearly four years after his triumphant return at WrestleMania 38 in Dallas, where he defeated Kevin Owens in what was his first match in 19 years. The Texas Rattlesnake admitted he rushed through that match and wished he had savored it more.

    Will Steve Austin Wrestle Again?

    WWE had pitched Austin for WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, but the timing simply did not align with his schedule. \”Was it pitched to me? Or did they want me there? Yeah,\” Austin acknowledged. \”But I wasn\’t in a position to go. Sometimes the multi-billion dollar company has an idea that the dude that has the metal shop, it just don\’t work.\”

    How Stone Cold Stays in Shape at 61

    The 61-year-old recently underwent knee replacement surgery in December 2024, which has significantly improved his mobility. \”I was thinking, why didn\’t I do this sooner?\” he said of the procedure, noting that arthritis had been affecting him so severely that he was limping without even realizing it.

    Austin follows a strict fitness regimen that began in fifth grade and continues to this day, subscribing to The Undertaker\’s philosophy that \”motion is lotion\” when it comes to maintaining physical health at an advanced age.

    While another in-ring appearance remains unlikely, Austin\’s refusal to close the door entirely will undoubtedly fuel speculation about a potential farewell match down the line.

  • Stone Cold\’s Take on John Cena\’s Heel Turn: \’This Far In, Forget About It\’

    Stone Cold Steve Austin has weighed in on John Cena\’s recent heel turn, revealing he prefers Cena as a babyface and believes the turn came too late in his career.

    Appearing on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Austin shared his honest assessment of Cena\’s shocking alignment with The Rock at Elimination Chamber 2025.

    \”It was okay,\” Austin said of the turn. \”I like him better as a baby face. I wanted to see him as a heel at some point during his career. This far in, forget about it. Just let him do his thing. Kids love that guy.\”

    Austin suggested that 2012, before Cena\’s historic match with The Rock at WrestleMania 28, might have been the ideal time for a heel turn. At this point in Cena\’s farewell tour, Austin believes it was unnecessary.

    It Ain\’t Ballet, At Least it Shouldn\’t Be

    The Texas Rattlesnake also offered advice to modern wrestlers, criticizing the overly polished nature of current WWE programming.

    \”Don\’t make it look like a dance. Not everything is perfect. Put some struggle in there. Put a little bit of slop in there when slop would be warranted,\” Austin said.

    He pointed to Bret Hart as the gold standard for selling fatigue during long matches.

    \”Just looks like he\’s beat to death. He\’s huffing, he\’s puffing, he ain\’t blown up. That\’s him just showing how tired he is.\”

    Austin emphasized that today\’s wrestlers need to feel more dangerous and authentic.

    \”If you saw me walking down the ramp when I was white hot, I could beat anybody\’s ass that was going to come up that ramp to get me. Sometimes I just don\’t feel that,\” he observed, noting that Brock Lesnar is one current star who still projects genuine danger.

  • Stone Cold Recalls Being Paralyzed for 60 Seconds After Breaking His Neck

    Stone Cold Steve Austin has opened up about being paralyzed for 60 seconds after breaking his neck at WWE SummerSlam 1997 in his infamous match with Owen Hart, an injury that changed the trajectory of his entire career.

    Speaking candidly to Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Austin opened up about the terrifying moment that nearly ended his wrestling career permanently.

    \”When you get paralyzed, which I was for, a transient quadriplegic for a length of time, 60 seconds, it scares you,\” Austin explained. \”And so, you don\’t want to go back to that place again. And I didn\’t think I was coming back.\”

    The injury forced Austin to transform his wrestling style from a technical approach to the hard-hitting brawler fans came to know.

    \”A tragedy or mishap turned into a bonus\” for the Stone Cold character, he reflected, though the neurological aftermath would eventually force his retirement.

    What Happened Before Steve Austin\’s \”Last\” Match?

    Austin also revealed a harrowing story from the night before WrestleMania 19 in 2003. Running ragged from dehydration and excessive caffeine consumption, his heart began racing at 180 beats per minute. \”I looked at Liz. I said, \’Liz, I\’m in trouble,\’\” Austin recalled, noting that a doctor never actually cleared him but he wrestled anyway.

    After his neck fusion surgery, Vince McMahon called Austin while he was recovering, already planning a comeback. Austin was initially offended given how close he came to permanent paralysis. \”But once I got solid again, confidence returned. There\’s things to be done and I\’m not through yet.\”

    Austin also shared a bizarre moment from his recovery, describing how he nearly choked on jalapeño burgers while driving to Sonic with his neck brace on, asking himself, \”Godamn, am I fixing to die? Is this how it ends?\”

  • Je\’Von Evans Signs WWE Raw Contract, Officially Joins Main Roster

    Je\’Von Evans is now officially a WWE Raw Superstar.

    During a commercial break on the January 6, 2026 episode of Monday Night Raw from Brooklyn, New York, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce signed Evans to a main roster contract, confirming him as a full-time member of the red brand.

    The signing concludes weeks of storyline positioning that saw the 21-year-old portrayed as a \”soon to be free agent\” fielding interest from both Raw and SmackDown. Evans defeated Rayo Americano on Raw in December and was scheduled to meet with Pearce afterward to discuss his future.

    Evans has been one of NXT\’s hottest prospects since his television debut in April 2024. The Greensboro, North Carolina native won the 2024 Iron Survivor Challenge and was named NXT Male Superstar of the Year for 2025. His triple threat match against Oba Femi and Trick Williams at NXT Stand & Deliver also won Match of the Year honors.

    \”The Young OG\” received significant main roster exposure in recent months, including a featured spot at Saturday Night\’s Main Event XLII, where John Cena selected him to team with Leon Slater.

  • MLW Sells Out February 7 Return to Cicero Stadium

    Major League Wrestling has sold out its February 7, 2026 return to Cicero Stadium in Chicago, marking the promotion\’s fourth consecutive sellout at the venue.

    The February event continues MLW\’s remarkable success in the Chicago market, with all four Cicero Stadium shows since May 2024 selling out in advance. The venue previously hosted sold-out MLW events on May 11, 2024, November 9, 2024, and May 10, 2025.

    The February 7 show, titled Lucha Apocalypto 2026, was rescheduled from its original November 15, 2025 date. MLW has promised a stacked card featuring title fights and major action.

    \”Your energy, loyalty, and unwavering support continue to raise the bar and fuel the momentum behind Major League Wrestling,\” MLW stated in thanking Chicago fans.

    Cicero Stadium, located eight miles from downtown Chicago, has become MLW\’s strongest market in the United States. The November 2024 event set an all-time attendance record for MLW in the U.S.

    MLW announced it is already planning its next Chicago show, with details to be revealed soon.

  • 3 Stars Depart AEW as Contracts Expire

    AEW has parted ways with three talents as 2026 begins, with Matt Taven, Mercedes Martinez, and Alex Abrahantes all leaving the promotion after their contracts expired.

    Fightful Select reports that all three were removed from the AEW roster page on January 5. The departures stem from contract expirations rather than releases, and AEW has not issued any public statement regarding the exits.

    Taven’s departure ends a three-year run that began in October 2022 when he debuted alongside Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis as The Kingdom. The former ROH World Champion remained a regular fixture on Ring of Honor programming and captured the ROH Tag Team Championship with Bennett for a third time. Notably, his tag team partner Mike Bennett remains listed on the AEW roster page, raising questions about The Kingdom’s future.

    Martinez’s exit was largely expected after she announced on January 1 that 2026 would be her final year as a full-time active wrestler. The 45-year-old veteran and former ROH Women’s World Champion revealed she would be working without contracts in 2026, focusing instead on the independent circuit.

    “No contracts. No agents. No creative. Just me – and everything I’ve earned over 25 damn years in this business,” Martinez stated, adding that her goal is to mentor the next generation of talent.

    Abrahantes, who joined AEW in 2019 as part of the Spanish announce team, became a popular on-screen personality as manager for the Lucha Brothers and Komander. His absence from programming had been noticeable in recent months before the departure was confirmed.

  • Netflix Releases WWE Unreal Season 2 Trailer Ahead of Raw Anniversary

    Netflix has released the official trailer for WWE Unreal Season 2, dropping ahead of tonight\’s WWE Raw on Netflix—marking the one-year anniversary of Raw\’s move to the streaming platform.

    The five-episode docuseries goes behind the scenes on the road to SummerSlam, featuring Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, Pat McAfee, Jelly Roll, R-Truth, Iyo Sky, Naomi, Chelsea Green, Penta, and Lyra Valkyria. Each episode runs 50 minutes, offering an inside look at WWE\’s creative process including rare access to the writer\’s room.

    \”Wild plot twists. Larger-than-life personas. And a whole lot of drama,\” reads the official description. \”Go behind the scenes with the biggest Superstars and back into the writer\’s room on the road to SummerSlam for Season 2 of WWE: Unreal.\”

    The series is directed by Chris Weaver with Erik Powers serving as showrunner. NFL legend Peyton Manning leads the executive producer team alongside Jamie Horowitz, Ross Ketover, and others. Production companies include Omaha Productions, NFL Films, Skydance Sports, and WWE.

    Fans can add WWE Unreal Season 2 to their Netflix list here.

    Tonight\’s Raw features Stranger Things Night as part of the anniversary celebration.

  • Will Ospreay Announces NJPW Return Plans at New Year Dash, Callum Newman Attempts Attack

    Will Ospreay made a surprise appearance at NJPW New Year Dash 2026 on January 5, announcing plans to return to NJPW full-time once medically cleared from neck surgery while nearly becoming the victim of an attack from his former protégé.

    Following United Empire\’s eight-man tag victory over Yota Tsuji, David Finlay, Shingo Takagi and Drilla Moloney, Ospreay emerged to address the faction. The AEW star embraced HENARE and Great-O-Khan but notably ignored Jake Lee completely.

    Ospreay told Callum Newman he\’s like his \”little brother\” and apologized for not realizing his NJPW departure caused United Empire\’s struggles. \”Once I handle business in AEW, I\’ll return to NJPW to support Newman,\” Ospreay stated, offering to do things Newman\’s way.

    Newman appeared to accept the olive branch before grabbing a chair to attack Ospreay. HENARE and Great-O-Khan quickly intervened, stopping the assault while Ospreay\’s back was turned. Newman stormed out of the ring without explanation.

    The tension stems from Newman\’s resentment over Ospreay\’s 2024 departure. In a pre-Wrestle Kingdom interview, Newman revealed Ospreay never contacted him after leaving NJPW, stating: \”He gave me a hug and said \’Behave.\’ That\’s it, and he got in a taxi and left. Didn\’t get a phone call, didn\’t get a text message even.\”

    Ospreay underwent neck surgery in September 2025 and has been recovering with a projected timeline that could see him return to action later in 2026.

  • Oba Femi: Inspiring African Kids to Dream Big in Wrestling

    In a recent BBC Sport interview, NXT Champion Oba Femi opened up about his mission to inspire young African wrestling fans—proving that geographical barriers and limited accessibility don\’t have to stop dreams from becoming reality.

    The Lagos-born superstar, who is currently enjoying his second NXT Championship reign, explained the personal journey that shaped his mission. Growing up in Africa without live WWE events, Femi initially doubted whether a wrestling career was even possible.

    \”I grew up a fan and I was like, man, I would kill to be a wrestler, but it just didn\’t feel plausible,\” Femi said. \”I\’m in Africa, it\’s run out of the United States. They don\’t even really come to Africa for live events. You start telling yourself all these things.\”

    Despite those barriers, Femi persevered—and now uses his platform to reframe what\’s possible. \”My goal is more to let them know that you can dream big and it\’s okay and it\’s possible,\” he emphasized, noting his mission extends beyond recruitment to genuine empowerment.

    Femi also discussed how he intentionally infuses Nigerian authenticity into his character, rejecting the typical approach many wrestlers take. \”How much of a human being can I put into this one character? Let me have that natural cadence of a Nigerian man,\” he explained, emphasizing cultural integration over stereotyping.

    With main roster vignettes already airing across Raw and SmackDown, Femi\’s elevation continues—positioning him as a trailblazer for underrepresented wrestling talent worldwide.

  • Olympic Gold Medalist Aaron Wolf Wins NJPW Title in Pro Wrestling Debut

    Aaron Wolf made history at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, winning the NEVER Openweight Championship in his very first professional wrestling match. The 29-year-old Olympic gold medalist submitted EVIL with a triangle choke in just under 13 minutes, overcoming heavy interference from the House of Torture faction to capture his first championship at the Tokyo Dome.

    From Olympic Gold to Pro Wrestling Gold

    Wolf won gold in the 100kg judo category at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, defeating South Korea\’s Cho Gu-ham in the final via ippon after more than five minutes of golden score overtime. He also won the 2017 World Judo Championships and became just the 10th male judoka in history to complete the \”triple crown\” of All-Japan Championships, World Championships, and Olympic gold.

    Born to an American father and Japanese mother, Wolf became the first athlete of U.S. descent to win the All-Japan Judo Championships in 2019. He retired from competitive judo in June 2025 and signed with NJPW that same month, with Wrestle Kingdom 20 announced as his in-ring debut.

    Young Lion Look Shocked Fans

    Wolf surprised the sold-out Tokyo Dome crowd by appearing not as an Olympic celebrity, but as a traditional NJPW young lion. He shed his judo gi on the stage to reveal plain black trunks and boots, with a shaved head completing the stripped-down look typically reserved for NJPW\’s rookie trainees. The presentation signaled that Wolf wanted to earn respect the hard way.

    Match Overcame House of Torture Chaos

    True to form, EVIL\’s House of Torture faction turned the match into controlled chaos. Early on, EVIL wrapped a chair around Wolf\’s neck and struck it with another chair. Multiple House of Torture members attacked Wolf while referees were distracted, and the towering Don Fale splashed Wolf through a table from the ropes.

    Toru Yano, Master Wato, and YOH ran out to help even the odds, but they were overwhelmed by House of Torture\’s numbers. Wolf survived a ref bump, powder to the eyes, and EVIL\’s lariat before finally turning the tide.

    Judo Background Wins the Day

    Wolf showed impressive offense throughout, hitting an Olympic Slam and a top rope splash for near falls. When EVIL attempted his Everything Is EVIL finisher, Wolf countered with a judo throw and locked in an armbar. EVIL escaped, but Wolf transitioned to a triangle choke that put the champion to sleep.

    The finish played perfectly into Wolf\’s legitimate combat sports background. Rather than pin EVIL, he submitted him with a technique rooted in his judo expertise, giving the victory an air of authenticity that resonated with the Tokyo Dome crowd.

    Building to Wrestle Kingdom

    The feud between Wolf and EVIL began at King of Pro-Wrestling in October, when Wolf saved Boltin Oleg from a House of Torture attack. At a subsequent press conference, EVIL spray-painted the NEVER Openweight Championship and mocked it as Wolf\’s \”gold medal,\” setting up the championship match.

    Wolf trained at NJPW\’s Noge Dojo in Tokyo since signing, working to translate his judo instincts into professional wrestling. In interviews, he credited watching NJPW since college and specifically mentioned Katsuyori Shibata and Tomohiro Ishii\’s rivalry for the NEVER Openweight Championship as an inspiration.

    What It Means

    Wolf becomes the first Japanese Olympic gold medalist to pursue professional wrestling, and NJPW\’s decision to put a championship on him immediately shows enormous confidence in his star power. The company\’s scouting department head, Yuji Nagata, has publicly stated Wolf has the potential to become a \”new ace\” for the promotion.

    With the NEVER Openweight Championship around his waist, Wolf\’s next challenge will be proving his debut wasn\’t a fluke. NJPW has announced \”Death Vegas\” for April 16 in Las Vegas, which could provide an opportunity for Wolf to showcase his new championship to American audiences.

  • NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 Results: Tanahashi Retires, AEW Stars Appear, New Champion

    NJPW\’s biggest show of the year delivered Hiroshi Tanahashi\’s emotional retirement, a title unification, and several appearances from AEW stars that WWE fans will recognize. Here\’s everything you need to know from the sold-out Tokyo Dome.

    Tanahashi Retires in Main Event Loss to AEW\’s Okada

    Hiroshi Tanahashi, often called \”the John Cena of Japan,\” wrestled his final match after a 26-year career. Kazuchika Okada, currently signed to AEW, defeated \”The Ace\” in 33 minutes with his Rainmaker finisher. Okada played full heel throughout, even pulling Tanahashi up from a pin at the two-count to inflict more punishment. The match saw Tanahashi pay tribute to former rivals Shinsuke Nakamura (now in WWE) and Katsuyori Shibata by using their signature moves.

    AEW Stars Appear for Retirement Ceremony

    The post-match celebration featured a parade of wrestlers from Tanahashi\’s past. Jay White, Will Ospreay, Kenny Omega, and Kota Ibushi all appeared to present flowers. Ibushi, still recovering from a broken femur, limped to the ring in an emotional Golden Lovers reunion with Omega. The surprise of the night was Tetsuya Naito\’s return to NJPW after leaving the company in April 2025. Keiji Mutoh (The Great Muta) and legend Tatsumi Fujinami also paid their respects.

    AEW\’s Takeshita Loses IWGP Title to Yota Tsuji

    In the co-main event, NJPW\’s Yota Tsuji submitted AEW\’s Konosuke Takeshita in nearly 30 minutes to unify the IWGP World Heavyweight and IWGP Global Heavyweight Championships. Tsuji forced Takeshita to tap to a Boston Crab, becoming the undisputed top champion. Jake Lee attacked Tsuji after the match, setting up a future title feud.

    Olympic Gold Medalist Wins in Pro Wrestling Debut

    Aaron Wolf, who won Olympic gold in judo at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, made his pro wrestling debut and immediately won the NEVER Openweight Championship by defeating EVIL via submission in 12 minutes. Wolf overcame heavy interference from the House of Torture faction, including a table splash from Don Fale, to choke out EVIL with a leg-based submission hold.

    Andrade Reveals He\’s Been Running United Empire

    Former WWE star Andrade (formerly La Sombra in NJPW) was revealed as the mystery businessman controlling the United Empire faction. His team, which included returning Jake Lee, defeated Bullet Club War Dogs in a 10-man tag match when Lee pinned Hiromu Takahashi.

    Complete Wrestle Kingdom 20 Results

    Main Card:

    Kazuchika Okada def. Hiroshi Tanahashi (Retirement Match, 33:00)

    Yota Tsuji def. Konosuke Takeshita (IWGP World & Global Championship Unification, 29:30)

    Aaron Wolf def. EVIL (NEVER Openweight Championship, 12:10)

    United Empire def. Bullet Club War Dogs (10-Man Tag, 14:40)

    El Desperado won Four-Way (Jr. Heavyweight #1 Contender, 8:25)

    Syuri def. Saya Kamitani (IWGP & Strong Women\’s Championship Unification, 12:10)

    TMDK (Zack Sabre Jr., Oiwa & Jackson) won Rambo (NEVER 6-Man Tag Championships, 20:46)

    Pre-Show:

    El Phantasmo def. Chris Brookes (NJPW TV Championship, 11:49)

    Murashima & Yasuda def. Kato & Matsumoto (6:19)

    What\’s Next for NJPW

    The company announced \”Death Vegas\” for April 16, 2026 in Las Vegas, plus G1 Climax 36 will include U.S. tour dates. Tanahashi continues as NJPW President while stepping away from the ring. New Year Dash on January 5 typically sets up the year\’s direction.

  • WWE Raw Preview (January 5, 2026): Stranger Things Night, CM Punk vs. Bron Breakker

    WWE kicks off 2026 with a stacked \”Stranger Things Night\” edition of Monday Night Raw, celebrating the one-year anniversary of Raw\’s historic move to Netflix. The show emanates live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

    • CM Punk (c) vs. Bron Breakker – World Heavyweight Championship
    • The Kabuki Warriors (c) vs. Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky – Women\’s Tag Team Championship
    • Maxxine Dupri (c) vs. Becky Lynch – Women\’s Intercontinental Championship
    • Liv Morgan vs. Lyra Valkyria
    • Advertised: Jey Uso, Penta, Stephanie Vaquer, Gunther, AJ Styles & Dragon Lee, The New Day, The Vision, Paul Heyman, Logan Paul

    World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Bron Breakker

    Breakker earned this shot by pinning Punk at Survivor Series WarGames. The feud has turned deeply personal, with both men targeting each other\’s families in promos. With Austin Theory revealed as The Vision\’s masked man and the full faction in Breakker\’s corner, the odds are stacked against the champion.

    Women\’s Tag Team Championship: The Kabuki Warriors (c) vs. Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky

    Asuka and Kairi Sane defend against the duo they betrayed. RHIYO has momentum after Iyo pinned Sane in an eight-woman tag on SmackDown, setting up this Crown Jewel rematch.

    Women\’s Intercontinental Championship: Maxxine Dupri (c) vs. Becky Lynch

    Lynch returned two weeks ago seeking to reclaim her title. Dupri, now training at the Hart Family Dungeon, has developed a new edge and promises to prove her first victory was no fluke.

    Singles Match: Liv Morgan vs. Lyra Valkyria

    Morgan makes her first televised in-ring return since June shoulder surgery. Tension is brewing between Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez within The Judgment Day heading into WrestleMania season.

    WWE Monday Night Raw streams live on Netflix at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT.

  • Raw GM Adam Pearce Drops Major Chris Jericho WWE Return Tease

    WWE Raw General Manager Adam Pearce appears to have teased the return of Chris Jericho in his official preview video for Monday\’s show.

    In a video posted to WWE\’s social media accounts on Sunday, Pearce hyped the January 5 episode of Raw emanating from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. While running down the stacked card for the Netflix one-year anniversary show, the GM dropped a not-so-subtle reference that immediately caught fans\’ attention.

    \”There are also three massive championship matches on the card. Who will break down the walls and walk out with gold?\” Pearce said.

    The phrase is unmistakably tied to Chris Jericho, whose iconic WWE entrance theme \”Break the Walls Down\” has been synonymous with the nine-time world champion since his legendary 1999 debut.

    The timing of Pearce\’s comment is significant. Jericho\’s AEW contract officially expired at midnight on December 31, 2025, making him a free agent. The 55-year-old hasn\’t appeared on AEW programming since April and hasn\’t wrestled for WWE since the Greatest Royal Rumble in April 2018.

    Multiple reports have indicated WWE is interested in bringing Jericho back for a retirement run, with some sources suggesting he could appear as soon as Monday\’s show. When asked about a potential return during a December 27 livestream, Jericho offered a cryptic response: \”You never know. You never know.\”

    Monday\’s January 5, 2026 edition of WWE Raw also features CM Punk defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Bron Breakker, The Kabuki Warriors defending the Women\’s Tag Team titles against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY, Maxxine Dupri defending the Women\’s Intercontinental Championship against Becky Lynch, and Liv Morgan returning to singles action against Lyra Valkyria.

  • \”Welcome Home\”: Triple H, John Cena Praise Matt Cardona After WWE Signing

    Matt Cardona has officially re-signed with WWE after five years on the independent circuit, and the wrestling world is taking notice

    WWE confirmed Cardona is now a full-time member of the SmackDown roster following his victory over Kit Wilson on January 2. Michael Cole announced during the match that General Manager Nick Aldis had signed Cardona to the blue brand. The former Zack Ryder returns under his real name — now dubbed \”The Complete\” — rather than his previous WWE character.

    Cardona reflected on his journey in an emotional statement, revealing he was released on April 15, 2020 after 14 years with the company.

    \”I knew I had 3 options. I could feel sorry for myself, become bitter, and fade into obscurity. I could coast off my WWE name and make some money for the rest of my life playing the greatest hits. OR I could reinvent myself, work my ass off, try to outwork every motherfucker out there, and create my own path. I chose option 3,\” Cardona wrote.

    During his time away, Cardona reinvented himself on the independent scene, capturing the GCW World Championship, NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship, and IMPACT Digital Media Championship. Pro Wrestling Illustrated named him Indie Wrestler of the Year in both 2022 and 2023.

    \”My goal was to get back to WWE. And as of last night, January 2, 2026, I am back in WWE…MATT CARDONA is in WWE,\” he continued. \”My advice is don\’t quit. You might make it if you don\’t. You definitely won\’t make it if you do.”

    Triple H and John Cena React

    Triple H responded directly on Twitter: \”A lesson to learn for everyone going into 2026: Stay Ready. Congrats and welcome back home @TheMattCardona.\”

    John Cena also praised Cardona and his wife Chelsea Green: \”Persistence and preparation tend to help manufacture luck. I couldn\’t be more proud of both @TheMattCardona and @ImChelseaGreen. They stand as a tremendous example of making luck through effort. Welcome home Matt.\”

  • Rusev Opening Pro Wrestling School in Nashville This March

    WWE Superstar Rusev is stepping into a new role as he prepares to open his own professional wrestling training facility in Nashville, Tennessee.

    The Bulgarian powerhouse announced his KECH Pro Wrestling Academy will officially open its doors on March 1, 2026. The school will offer training programs for both adults and children, including a specialized \”SUPER KECH\” program designed for younger aspiring wrestlers.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DS-vBrTkk6B

    Operating under the tagline \”Train like a pro — Trained by a pro,\” the academy positions Rusev as a hands-on instructor sharing his experience from years competing at the highest levels of professional wrestling.

    Registration for the school is currently open, with interested trainees able to sign up through the academy\’s official channels. The school has already established its presence on social media, launching an Instagram account to share updates as the March opening approaches.

    Nashville continues to emerge as a destination for professional wrestling, with Rusev\’s academy adding to the city\’s growing presence in the industry.

    Rusev returned to WWE on the April 21, 2025 Raw, reverting from his AEW “Miro” persona and immediately reestablishing himself as a dominant heel by destroying Alpha Academy during a tag match involving The New Day. Now part of the Raw roster on a reported two-year deal, the three-time United States Champion has worked a limited but high-profile schedule, including his in-ring return win over Otis on May 5 and featured bouts like Clash in Paris against Sheamus and a multi-man King of the Ring match won by Jey Uso.

    In interviews, he has framed this run as both a quest to finally become a world champion in WWE and an opportunity to mentor younger talent, stressing that his main goal is to push them to seize their opportunities and work harder than he once did.

  • NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 Preview: Full Match Card, How To Watch, Start Times

    NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 takes place this Sunday, January 4, 2026, from the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan. The 20th edition of New Japan Pro-Wrestling\’s signature event is already sold out and is expected to be the best-attended Wrestle Kingdom in history, with the promotion expanding seating to accommodate overwhelming demand.

    The show is headlined by Hiroshi Tanahashi\’s retirement match against longtime rival Kazuchika Okada. \”The Ace\” ends his legendary 25-year career against \”The Rainmaker\” in what marks their 18th singles encounter and first since February 2024. Okada, currently signed to AEW, returns to the promotion where he made his name to send off his greatest rival in what promises to be an emotional farewell.

    How To Watch NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20

    Wrestle Kingdom 20 streams live on NJPW World, New Japan\’s official streaming service, with both Japanese and English commentary options available. This marks the first January 4 Tokyo Dome show to air on TV Asahi in Japan since 2004.

    Subscriptions to NJPW World are available for $9.99 per month for international fans. If you miss the live broadcast, NJPW World typically keeps major events available for replay.

    Wrestle Kingdom 20 Start Times

    • Japan: 4:00 PM JST (Sunday)
    • Eastern: 2:00 AM ET (Sunday morning)
    • Pacific: 11:00 PM PT (Saturday night)
    • United Kingdom: 7:00 AM GMT (Sunday)

    NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20 Full Match Card

    Main Event — Hiroshi Tanahashi\’s Retirement Match: Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada

    The greatest rivalry in modern New Japan history concludes at the Tokyo Dome. Tanahashi and Okada have met 17 times in singles competition, with Okada holding an 8-6 advantage and three matches ending in time-limit draws. Three of their encounters have taken place at Wrestle Kingdom, with their last Tokyo Dome clash coming at Wrestle Kingdom 10 in 2016.

    Tanahashi has competed at all 19 previous Wrestle Kingdom events and is regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. His legendary career includes eight IWGP Heavyweight Championship reigns, three G1 Climax victories, two New Japan Cup wins, and recognition as the second NJPW Grand Slam Champion.

    Winner Takes All Match: Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Yota Tsuji (c) — IWGP World Heavyweight Championship & IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship

    Both titles are on the line in this champion vs. champion clash. AEW\’s Takeshita captured the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Zack Sabre Jr. at King of Pro-Wrestling in October, while Tsuji won the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship from Gabe Kidd on the same show. The winner will walk away with both prestigious titles.

    NEVER Openweight Championship: EVIL (c) vs. Aaron Wolf

    Former Olympic gold medalist judoka Aaron Wolf makes his professional wrestling debut against the NEVER Openweight Champion. Wolf\’s signing was announced in June 2025, and the decorated Olympian has been training for his Wrestle Kingdom debut ever since. This marks a major crossover moment for NJPW.

    Four-Way #1 Contender\’s Match for IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship: El Desperado vs. Kosei Fujita vs. Taiji Ishimori vs. SHO

    Four of NJPW\’s best junior heavyweights compete for a future shot at the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship in what should be a fast-paced, high-flying encounter.

    Ten-Man Tag Team Match: United Empire vs. Bullet Club War Dogs & Unaffiliated

    United Empire: Callum Newman, Great-O-Khan, HENARE, Andrade El Idolo & TBA
    vs.
    War Dogs/Unaffiliated: David Finlay, Gabe Kidd, Drilla Moloney, Shingo Takagi & Hiromu Takahashi

    Andrade El Idolo returns to New Japan for the first time since 2015 when he wrestled as La Sombra. HENARE also returns to action after being sidelined since December 2024. United Empire still has one mystery partner to reveal heading into the Tokyo Dome.

    Winner Takes All Match: Syuri (c) vs. Saya Kamitani (c) — IWGP Women\’s Championship & NJPW STRONG Women\’s Championship

    Both women\’s championships are on the line as IWGP Women\’s Champion Syuri faces NJPW STRONG Women\’s Champion Saya Kamitani. Kamitani made history as the first woman to win overall Tokyo Sports MVP, cementing her status as the top star in Japanese women\’s wrestling.

    NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Championship — Tornado Ranbo: YOH, Master Wato & Toru Yano (c) vs. Multiple Teams

    The defending champions face a gauntlet of challengers in this chaotic multi-team Tornado Ranbo format. Teams include: Kaisei Takechi, Shota Umino & Yuya Uemura; Satoshi Kojima, Taichi & Tomohiro Ishii; Oleg Boltin, YOSHI-HASHI & Hirooki Goto; TMDK (Hartley Jackson, Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa); Ryusuke Taguchi, Togi Makabe & Tiger Mask; Clark Connors, OSKAR & Yuto-Ice; and House of Torture (Ren Narita, SANADA & Yoshinobu Kanemaru).

    Pre-Show — NJPW World Television Championship: El Phantasmo (c) vs. Chris Brookes

    El Phantasmo defends the NJPW World Television Championship against DDT Pro Wrestling\’s Chris Brookes, who makes his NJPW debut at the Tokyo Dome.

    What To Expect

    Wrestle Kingdom 20 carries immense emotional weight with Tanahashi\’s final match serving as the centerpiece. The Ace has been the heart of New Japan Pro-Wrestling through its modern era, and his retirement against Okada provides the perfect bookend to one of wrestling\’s greatest rivalries.

    Beyond the main event, the card features significant championship implications with multiple Winner Takes All matches that could reshape NJPW\’s title picture heading into 2026. The debuts of Aaron Wolf and Chris Brookes, plus Andrade\’s return, add fresh intrigue to the proceedings.

    Wrestle Kingdom 20 airs live Sunday on NJPW World.

  • SmackDown Preview for Tonight: Ambulance Match, 3-Hour Format

    WWE kicks off 2026 with a new era for Friday Night SmackDown tonight at 8/7c on USA Network. The show returns to a three-hour format, debuts a new announce team, and features a stacked card from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

    • Ambulance Match: Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black
    • 8-Woman Tag Team Match: Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY vs. The Kabuki Warriors, Nia Jax & Lash Legend
    • Non-Title Match: Jade Cargill vs. Michin (if Michin wins, she earns a title shot)
    • New Announce Team: Joe Tessitore & Wade Barrett debut on SmackDown
    • Appearances: Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, Carmelo Hayes, Solo Sikoa, The Wyatt Sicks and more expected

    New Announce Team

    Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett take over the SmackDown commentary desk, swapping places with Michael Cole and Corey Graves, who move to Raw ahead of Monday\’s Netflix anniversary episode. Tessitore and Barrett previously called SmackDown before switching to Raw in September to accommodate Tessitore\’s college football schedule.

    Ambulance Match: Damian Priest vs. Aleister Black

    The months-long rivalry between Priest and Black should finally reach its conclusion. Black won their Last Man Standing match in October with help from wife Zelina Vega, including a fireball that injured Priest\’s eye. Priest got payback when the Terror Twins defeated Black and Vega in a mixed tag earlier this month, but Black responded with a vicious shovel attack backstage. One man leaves in an ambulance tonight.

    8-Woman Tag Team Match: Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY vs. The Kabuki Warriors, Nia Jax & Lash Legend

    A showcase of the women\’s division kicks off 2026 as four of SmackDown\’s top babyfaces unite against the heel alliance. WWE Women\’s Tag Team Champions Asuka and Kairi Sane team with Jax and Legend in a match with major tag title implications. Expect chaos with this many rivals in one ring.

    Jade Cargill vs. Michin

    WWE Women\’s Champion Cargill faces Michin in a non-title match, with Michin earning a future title shot if she wins. Note: Michin was reportedly injured during the WWE Holiday Tour, so her status is uncertain—rumors suggest Tiffany Stratton could return to take her place and reignite her rivalry with Cargill.

    Cody Rhodes/Drew McIntyre Fallout

    Last week, Drew McIntyre announced he\’ll face Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in a Three Stages of Hell match on January 9 in Berlin. After telling Rhodes to \”say hi to your dad in hell,\” McIntyre dropped the champion with a Claymore. Rhodes also accidentally struck GM Nick Aldis while trying to get at McIntyre—expect fallout tonight as the Road to Berlin intensifies.

    Looking Ahead

    • SmackDown in Berlin – January 9: Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre, Three Stages of Hell for the WWE Championship
    • Raw Netflix Anniversary – January 5: First year of Raw on Netflix, with Cole and Graves on commentary
    • Royal Rumble – January 31 in Saudi Arabia

    WWE SmackDown airs tonight at 8/7c on USA Network. This is the first three-hour SmackDown of 2026.

  • TNA Impact Preview for Tonight: Frankie Kazarian vs. Bear Bronson

    TNA Wrestling kicks off 2026 with a loaded episode of Impact tonight at 8/7c on AXS TV, Sportsnet 360 in Canada, and TNA+ worldwide.

    TNA World Championship: Frankie Kazarian (c) vs. Bear Bronson

    Bear Bronson earned this title shot in just his second TNA match, winning a 20-man Battle Royal on December 18 by last eliminating Eric Young. Kazarian won the title controversially in November by cashing in on Mike Santana after NXT invaders attacked the then-champion. With Santana\’s rematch waiting at Genesis, Kazarian can\’t afford a slip-up against the hungry challenger.

    Indi Hartwell, Jody Threat & Jada Stone vs. Tessa Blanchard, Victoria Crawford & Mila Moore

    After a tag team loss on December 18, Blanchard\’s faction issued an open challenge. Hartwell answered, looking to build momentum toward her goal of becoming Knockouts World Champion.

    The Angel Warriors vs. The Elegance Brand

    TNA Knockouts World Champion Léi Y?ng Lee teams with Xia Brookside against the 2025 Knockouts Tag Team of the Year. Both tandems have their eyes on tag team gold.

    Mustafa Ali vs. Home Town Man

    The Order 4 leader continues his war after ambushing Elijah with a guitar shot on the last Impact. The fan-favorite Home Town Man looks to play spoiler.

    The Righteous Speak

    Vincent and Dutch address their kidnapping of Matt Hardy during the Steel Cage match. They claim they want to help the Hardys \”become immortal\”—Matt isn\’t buying it. This sets up Hardys vs. Righteous at Genesis.

    The System Addresses JDC\’s Retirement

    JDC faces Eddie Edwards in his retirement match at Genesis after 26 years in the business. Tonight, The System speaks ahead of the emotional farewell.

    Looking Ahead

    • TNA Genesis – January 17 in Dallas: Kazarian vs. Santana, JDC vs. Edwards, Hardys vs. Righteous
    • Impact on AMC debuts January 15 with Nic Nemeth reportedly cashing in his Call Your Shot trophy

    TNA Impact airs tonight at 8/7c on AXS TV, Sportsnet 360 in Canada, and TNA+ worldwide.

  • AEW Dynamite Preview for Tonight: New Year\’s Smash

    AEW closes out 2025 with a bang tonight as Dynamite presents \”New Year\’s Smash\” live from the Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Omaha, Nebraska.

    Fresh off the chaos of Worlds End, where MJF reclaimed the AEW World Championship and Jon Moxley captured the Continental Championship, tonight\’s show promises to deliver fireworks on New Year\’s Eve with three championship bouts and the new world champion\’s first address since his victory.

    • TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Willow Nightingale
    • AEW National Championship: Ricochet (c) vs. Jack Perry
    • AEW Continental Championship Eliminator: Jon Moxley vs. Josh Alexander
    • Appearance: MJF speaks as new AEW World Champion

    TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Willow Nightingale

    Mercedes Moné is furious after Willow Nightingale pinned her at Worlds End during the Women\’s Tag Team Championship match. In a heated backstage tirade, Moné challenged Nightingale for her TBS title. A victory would make Nightingale the first two-time TBS Champion, ending Moné\’s 581-day reign just short of 600 days.

    AEW National Championship: Ricochet (c) vs. Jack Perry

    Jack Perry earned this shot by pinning Ricochet in an eight-man tag at Worlds End\’s Zero Hour. Despite a disappointing Continental Classic, Perry remains dangerous and is hungry for his first singles title in AEW. Ricochet makes his fourth defense of the newly-minted National Championship.

    AEW Continental Championship Eliminator: Jon Moxley vs. Josh Alexander

    Fresh off his Continental Classic victory—defeating Kyle Fletcher and Kazuchika Okada in the same night to capture the title—Moxley faces Josh Alexander in an eliminator match. Alexander can earn a future title shot by winning or surviving the 20-minute time limit. Per eliminator rules, there\’s no outside interference, keeping the Death Riders at bay.

    Segments to Watch

    MJF Addresses His World Championship Victory: The new two-time AEW World Champion speaks for the first time since stealing the title at Worlds End. MJF picked his spots in the four-way, hitting a low blow on Hangman and the Heatseeker on a wounded Samoa Joe for the pin. At 29, he joins The Rock and John Cena as the only wrestlers to win a world title twice before 30. Expect a confrontation from Page, Swerve, Joe, or Maximum Carnage challenger Bandido.

    Looking Ahead

    • How will the Athena/Moné partnership fallout continue after their miscommunication cost them the tag titles?
    • Will any of MJF\’s Worlds End opponents—Page, Swerve, or Joe—crash his celebration?
    • Can Jon Moxley\’s injured leg hold up against Josh Alexander after wrestling twice at Worlds End?
    • What\’s next for Kris Statlander following her successful Women\’s World Championship defense against Jamie Hayter?

    AEW Dynamite: New Year\’s Smash airs tonight at 8 PM ET on TBS and Max.

  • MJF\’s Twitter Hacked, His Attempt to Profit Backfires Hilariously

    AEW World Champion MJF had his Twitter account hacked on Tuesday morning, just three days after winning the title at Worlds End—and his attempt to spin the situation in his favor backfired spectacularly.

    Hackers sent direct messages from MJF\’s account requesting money for a fake medical emergency. SEScoops received one such message claiming MJF\’s mother needed two kidney transplants costing $250,000 each and requesting $80,000 in assistance.

    After regaining control of his account, MJF addressed the situation in typical fashion: \”My Twitter got hacked. If you were messaged by me that I needed money, my apologies. However if you were messaged by me and you were dumb as fuck enough to believe that. My Venmo information is below.\”

    The newly crowned champion then shared his actual Venmo account information, seemingly inviting anyone gullible enough to believe the scam to send him money anyway.

    The plan immediately backfired. Instead of receiving donations, MJF was flooded with payment REQUESTS from fans looking to get money from wrestling\’s self-proclaimed \”Salt of the Earth.\” Within minutes, MJF posted \”STOP REQUESTING MONEY!!!!\” followed by a simple \”FUCK\” along with screenshots showing requests ranging from $100 to $1,000.

    MJF won his second AEW World Championship on Saturday by pinning Samoa Joe in a four-way match that also included Hangman Adam Page and Swerve Strickland. His first title defense is scheduled for January 14 at Maximum Carnage against ROH World Champion Bandido.