WWE returns to Full Sail University tonight for a special NXT Homecoming episode of NXT on The CW.
The show features the in-ring returns NXT alums Tyler Breeze, and several main roster stars including Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair. Two title matches are scheduled, and the show celebrates NXT’s legacy with top talent from its history.
Ahead of tonight\’s NXT Homecoming special, catch up on the Top 10 Moments from last week. Stay tuned to SEScoops for our coverage of Homecoming and all things WWE.
WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels discussed the challenge of transitioning from performer to coach during his Nightcap appearance, revealing why natural talent often struggles with instruction.
\”What came easy is hard. Those that can do, those that can\’t teach, you did because you could do. Now, how do you show patience, show grace, and say, \’What came so easy to Shawn Michaels? What was a God-given gift? How do I convey that?\’\” Michaels explained.
The NXT leader emphasized timing as wrestling\’s most crucial yet unteachable element.
\”The hardest thing for us is a very natural feel and also as you gentlemen know you almost can\’t teach timing. Timing is something that our business as yours sort of hangs on.\”
Changing Wrestling Culture, Finding Fulfillment
Michaels expressed determination to improve wrestling\’s working environment for future generations.
\”We want the culture of our business to be different and to be more positive than it was when we got into it. We want to leave it better off than the way we came into it,\” he stated.
His role at the WWE Performance Center focuses on developing complete performers rather than just athletes. Through repetition and mentorship, Michaels helps translate raw talent into television-ready superstars.
Physical Sacrifice for the Craft
Despite his legendary status, Michaels paid dearly for his in-ring career. \”I have had my back fused. I\’ve had my shoulder replaced. I got two knees that I\’m getting replaced in probably a month. And I wouldn\’t change it for anything in the world,\” he revealed without regret.
His dedication extended to an exhausting schedule that few modern performers could match.
\”When I worked on the road, we did 286 days. When I got a part-time schedule, it was 150 days… I enjoyed every minute.\”
Perfect Retirement Timing
Michaels found peace in his final match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25.
\”I had a match… with Undertaker WrestleMania 25 in Houston that made me feel so peaceful in a way that I\’d never felt after a match in my entire life,\” he reflected. \”I was able to leave, as they say, on a high note… I\’ve never looked back and regretted it.\”
The wrestling legend found fulfillment in developing others after his own career concluded.
\”I do one thing well in this lifetime and it\’s wrestle. I\’m able to use that gift to give other young men and women… the opportunity to have the amazing life that I\’ve been given through this line of work.\”
Shawn Michaels responded humbly to Ric Flair recetly declaring him the greatest all time.
\”Ric Flair says your understanding of the moment and the timing and the theatrics of it… there\’s no one close to Shawn Michaels. He\’s the greatest,\” Shannon Sharpe quoted, adding \”That\’s no disrespect to Hogan. That\’s no disrespect to anyone… But Shawn Michaels is the greatest wrestler.\”
Michaels accepted the compliment graciously while maintaining perspective.
\”It\’s the greatest compliment a guy could have to even be in the conversation,\” he replied, acknowledging the significance of Flair\’s endorsement.
WWE Raw airs live tonight from the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, at a special start time of 7:00 PM ET on Netflix.
Tonight’s go-home show for Wrestlepalooza is loaded with major segments, star appearances, and final hype for Saturday’s premium live event.
Major Segments & Star Appearances
CM Punk & AJ Lee vs. Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch: All four will share the ring for an intense face-to-face segment, fueling one of Wrestlepalooza’s most talked-about storylines. Expect fireworks as this mixed tag feud reaches a boiling point.
Jey Uso Heel Tease: The fallout continues from Jey’s shocking spear to LA Knight last week, with fans awaiting further signs of a Bloodline split or heel turn.
Confirmed Match Card
John Cena\’s Final Springfield Raw: Cena says farewell to Springfield ahead of his final clash this weekend with Brock Lesnar.
Lyra Valkyria vs. Roxanne Perez: Valkyria looks to bounce back from defeat in a singles contest against Judgment Day’s Roxanne Perez.
Penta vs. Kofi Kingston: The rivalry continues with high-flying action showcased in this anticipated bout.
Dragon Lee vs. El Grande Americano: General Manager Adam Pearce announced this match following the World’s Collide fallout, promising a fast-paced affair.
What To Expect
Fireworks. Expect fireworks. It\’s the go-home show before Wrestlepalooza, WWE will have all hands on deck to hype the PLE, and John Cena makes his final appearance in Boston. Keep the tissues nearby.
Viewing Details:
Location: MassMutual Center, Springfield, MA
Start Time: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT (special early start due to the NFL season)
Streaming: Netflix (Worldwide)
Stay with SEScoops for live coverage, results, and breaking news throughout Raw and all Wrestlepalooza weekend.
The Undertaker supplied his unfiltered opinion about the most important aspect of professional wrestling during his recent interview with Nightcap. The Deadman explained to Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson that technical execution serves a larger narrative purpose.
\”Wrestling isn\’t about wrestling moves. Wrestling is about telling stories. We use the moves to help tell the story, but it\’s all about the connection.\”
Professional wrestling is a business, and Undertaker argues there\’s bigger factors at play than snug ring work and a killer move set.
\”If you love somebody you pay money to see him kick the other guy\’s ass, or if you hate him, you pay to see him get beaten. That\’s the gist of what we do.\”
Modern Recruitment Challenges
Storytelling is important, but athleticism is still WWE\’s canvas. Charisma is the X factor, but Undertaker detailed how WWE still aggressively scouts collegiate athletes instead of waiting for independent wrestlers to show up on their radar.
\”We recruit at the combine, go to colleges, pro days…because we have to continue to feed the system.\”
This approach creates unique teaching challenges.
\”When I came up, either you had it or you didn\’t. Now we get people from ground zero who don\’t understand the business, so you have to break it down.\”
Remembering Bray Wyatt\’s Unique Presence
When asked about potential supernatural character successors, The Undertaker immediately thought of the late Bray Wyatt.
\”Do I see any young Undertakers coming up? Hard to say, but the closest in the past few years was Bray Wyatt. He was in that category. We lost him last year.\”
Rob Gronkowski praised WWE\’s audience engagement during his interview with Steph McMahon, drawing sharp contrasts with NFL fan behavior based on his WrestleMania experience. The former Patriots star found wrestling crowds more consistently invested in the action.
\”NFL fans sometimes grabbing beer if their team\’s not on offense… WWE fans, they\’re ready at all times, truer fans.. energy is kinetic, nothing like it,\” Gronkowski said.
Behind-the-Scenes Wrestling Mishap
Gronkowski shared details of a security miscommunication during his WrestleMania involvement that created unscripted drama.
\”My favorite was the security guy didn\’t know I was part of the show. She looked at me, grabbed me, and I could tell she wasn\’t tipped off,\” he recalled.
The confusion led to improvised moments that enhanced the segment.
\”So I played back—it was fixed, but I wasn\’t going to fight her. Eventually, she realized, and I got to level [Jinder] Mahal. Wasn\’t supposed to kick him—did it anyway.\”
Attitude Era Influence
Gronkowski referenced wrestling\’s cultural impact through his DX tribute at recent events.
\”I chose to do a DX crotch chop entrance at Fanatics Fest—\’Can\’t really do that anymore, but I can\’… Attitude Era, best era—kids sent home for crotch chops.\”
His foundation work includes gifting equipment to youth organizations, continuing his philosophy of turning opportunities into positive outcomes for others.
Gronk Nation Youth Foundation
Beyond the gridiron and the ring, Rob Gronkowski’s passion for giving back is embodied in the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation. Established with his family, the foundation is dedicated to supporting youth through sports, education, fitness, and community engagement.
Recent initiatives include a $315,000 donation to the Tampa Bay Resiliency Fund for regional disaster relief, as well as numerous community sports equipment drives and regular visits to children’s hospitals. Gronkowski’s foundation also partners with organizations such as Kids 2 Camp to provide scholarships and memorable camp experiences for disadvantaged youth.
Gronkowski’s commitment to philanthropy extends far beyond his own organization. In 2025, he participated in charity pickleball events to raise funds for cancer research, and he frequently lends his voice to causes close to his heart, including The Jimmy Fund and ALS awareness.
Rob Gronkowski’s WWE Career Highlights
Gronkowski’s journey from NFL superstar to WWE personality is marked by several memorable moments that underscore his genuine love for professional wrestling. Gronkowski made his WWE debut at WrestleMania 33 in 2017, storming the ring to help longtime friend Mojo Rawley claim victory in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
Three years later, Gronkowski officially signed with WWE and was named the host of WrestleMania 36, where he stunned fans by capturing the WWE 24/7 Championship in a daring on-screen leap – reportedly only after WWE Chairman Vince McMahon demonstrated the jump himself to boost Gronk’s confidence.
Mads Krugger was crowned the new MLW World Heavyweight Champion at Saturday\’s MLW Fightland 2025 event. He clinched the title in dramatic fashion, cashing in his Gravity Gamble contract to make the main event a triple threat match against then-champion Matt Riddle and challenger Donovan Dijak. The bout was originally set as Riddle vs. Dijak, but Kruger’s surprise move changed the stakes.
Riddle hit his signature Brostone Piledriver on Dijak and looked poised to retain. Kruger broke up the pin, delivered a full nelson face slam to Riddle, and pinned him to win the championship. After the bell, Kruger and Dijak brawled around the arena, with Alex Hammerstone joining in the fray by attacking Kruger with a chair outside the ring.
MJF’s Return to MLW:
AEW star MJF (Maxwell Jacob Friedman) made a buzzworthy return to MLW during the show, appearing in a backstage segment with former Dynasty teammate Hammerstone. MJF delivered a promo reflecting on their shared history and encouraging Hammerstone to reclaim his former dominance. The reunion tease left fans speculating about a build to future storylines between these stars.
WWE superstar Kofi Kingston didn\’t hold back during his recent appearance on the Battleground Podcast, delivering both humorous and insightful commentary on the current state of professional wrestling\’s tag team landscape and WWE\’s unprecedented global reach.
New Day\’s \”Mourning\” Over Tag Team Division Status
In a pointed observation, Kingston expressed his feelings about New Day\’s current championship status.
\”Even though we are in the state of mourning… we are mourning the loss of the tag team division. And we are, you know, anytime the New Day is not at the helm, we are not champions, then that just means the tag team division is dead,\” Kingston told host Battle from Q95. \”So what I mourn, we all mourn, you know, as the world should be mourning.\”
The WWE veteran playfully criticized the interview\’s opening, adding: \”You should have started off the interview saying sorry for your loss, expressing condolences, but I just somehow knew that you weren\’t going to do that. If history is any indication, I knew that you weren\’t going to do that.\”
While delivered with humor, Kingston\’s comments reflect the genuine impact New Day has had on tag team wrestling and their desire to reclaim championship gold.
WWE\’s Revolutionary Collaboration Era
Kingston highlighted WWE\’s current unprecedented period of cross-promotional partnerships and global expansion, particularly praising the company\’s willingness to break traditional barriers.
\”We are in such a special time right now. WWE has always been about like expanding, but I feel like in the past year and a half, two years, we have really just kind of sunk our teeth into anything and everything that we possibly can, bro,\” Kingston explained. \”Even having advertisements in the ring, all the international shows, just wild to me, man, how we can keep pushing the boundaries and I love it, man.\”
The New Day founding member specifically emphasized WWE\’s international focus: \”Especially worldwide, like we have such a rabid fan base throughout the entire world and they also deserve to have shows brought to them. The collaborations with different companies with Triple A, wrestling for the AAA tag team titles is going to be amazing at Worlds Collide. I\’m still kind of in awe that it\’s actually even happening.\”
Breaking Down Industry Barriers
Reflecting on WWE\’s evolution, Kingston noted how previously impossible signings have become reality, fundamentally changing the wrestling landscape.
\”There was a time where you never thought you would see AJ Styles on a WWE screen… Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Shinsuke Nakamura… all of a sudden we cross that barricade and that barrier and it\’s like, oh my gosh, we did it. What else can we do? And we\’re still doing things that are groundbreaking,\” he observed.
Looking Forward
Kingston\’s comments reveal a wrestler deeply invested in both his team\’s success and the industry\’s continued evolution. His blend of humor and genuine insight demonstrates why New Day remains one of WWE\’s most beloved acts, even when not holding championship gold.
MLW FIGHTLAND arrives in Dallas this Saturday, September 13, featuring multiple championship matches and a highly anticipated debut at NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills, Texas. The event streams free on YouTube at 10pm ET and airs on beIN SPORTS.
World Heavyweight Champion Matt Riddle defends his title against Donovan Dijak in what promises to be their final confrontation. Riddle has held the championship since January, but Dijak has emerged as his most dangerous challenger. MLW President César Duran has declared this their definitive battle after previous encounters were marred by outside interference.
The vacant World Middleweight Championship will be decided when Templario faces Ikuro Kwon. The title became available after Místico\’s departure, with controversy surrounding Kwon\’s theft of the physical belt. Templario now seeks to restore honor to the championship.
Women\’s World Featherweight Champion Shoko Nakajima puts her title on the line against the undefeated Yuki Kamifuku, who earned this opportunity after attacking the champion. The match represents a clash between two of Japan\’s premier female wrestlers.
?? Blood. Chaos. Carnage. ?? Hammerstone vs. Matthew Justice in a TEXAS DEATH MATCH! This Saturday at #FIGHTLAND… there are no rules, no mercy, no escape.
Violence takes center stage as Alex Hammerstone battles Matthew Justice in a Texas Death Match. Their rivalry intensified when Justice cost Hammerstone a title opportunity this summer.
We\’ll also see Shotzi Blackheart back in action against Alejandra Quintanilla.
The Opera Cup tournament begins with two opening round matches: Último Guerrero versus Esfinge, and Zandokan Jr. against Blue Panther Jr.
ICYMI: The 2025 Opera Cup ? continues this Saturday when Okumura meets @LondonFu during the TV taping portion of MLW FIGHTLAND!
The evening\’s most intriguing element is the debut of Don Gato, the mysterious figure teased by César Duran and Salina de la Renta. His intentions remain unclear as Dallas awaits his arrival.
Amigos… @DonGatoTequila will be in the house this Saturday for MLW FIGHTLAND. ??
Hit up the concession stands and discover exclusive Don Gato cocktails. ?? Bold, smooth, unforgettable — drinks designed to hit as hard as the action in the ring. pic.twitter.com/6XZLhIvqX6
All Elite Wrestling returns to Toronto with one of its most stacked cards to date as AEW All Out 2025 emanates live from the Scotiabank Arena on Saturday, September 20. This year’s signature pay-per-view event is set for a special afternoon bell time of 3:00 PM ET, promising high-octane action and major championship bouts for fans watching both in the arena and around the world.
Headlining the show, AEW World Champion “Hangman” Adam Page puts his title on the line against Kyle Fletcher, with a no-interference stipulation ensuring a truly definitive showdown. The night features multiple championship matches, including Toni Storm defending the AEW Women’s World Title in a wild four-way clash, and Brodido fending off three challenger teams in a jaw-dropping ladder match for the AEW World Tag Team titles.
The card is rounded out by high-risk stipulation bouts,and a deep undercard packed with international stars and crowd favorites. With AEW’s biggest names set to compete and a globally accessible broadcast on HBO Max, PPV.com, and major streaming platforms, All Out 2025 is a can’t-miss event for wrestling fans worldwide.
Whether you’re tuning in from the U.S., Canada, or across the globe, here’s everything you need to know about the updated match card, start time, and how to watch live from Toronto.
U.S.: Available on pay-per-view via HBO Max, Prime Video, and PPV.com
Canada: Available through cable/satellite PPV providers and streaming outlets such as PPV.com
International: Available in certain markets on YouTube and other digital platforms
Main Card
AEW World Championship: “Hangman” Adam Page (c) vs. Kyle Fletcher (NEW stip: If Don Callis Family interferes, Fletcher is DQ’d and stripped of TNT Title)
AEW Women’s World Championship (Four-Way): Toni Storm (c) vs. Jamie Hayter vs. Kris Statlander vs. Thekla
Coffin Match: Jon Moxley vs. Darby Allin
AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Riho
MJF vs. Mark Briscoe — Tables ‘n’ Thumbtacks Match
Adam Copeland & Christian Cage vs. FTR
The Hurt Syndicate (Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin & MVP) vs. Ricochet & Gates of Agony (Bishop Kaun & Toa Liona)
Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Konosuke Takeshita vs. Máscara Dorada — AEW Unified Championship Three-Way
Eddie Kingston vs. Big Bill
AEW World Tag Team Championship Ladder Four-Way: Brodido (Brody King & Bandido) (c) vs. The Young Bucks vs. JetSpeed (Kevin Knight & “Speedball” Mike Bailey) vs. Don Callis Family (Hechicero & Josh Alexander)
Zero-Hour Kickoff Show
Eight-Woman Tornado Tag: Willow Nightingale, Mina Shirakawa, Harley Cameron & Queen Aminata vs. Megan Bayne, Penelope Ford, Julia Hart & Skye Blue
The Opps (Samoa Joe & Powerhouse Hobbs) vs. The Workhorsemen (Anthony Henry & JD Drake)
Daniel Garcia vs. Katsuyori Shibata
Stay tuned to SEScoops all weekend for our coverage of AEW All Out Toronto.
Director James Gunn has revealed a surprising casting detail about his hit HBO Max series \”Peacemaker\” – the role was originally written for Dave Bautista, not John Cena.
Speaking on The Howard Stern Show, Gunn disclosed that he initially offered the titular character to Bautista, who plays Drax in the \”Guardians of the Galaxy\” films. However, financial considerations led to a different outcome.
\”It was Dave Bautista. He\’s a good friend of mine, obviously he plays Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy,\” Gunn explained. \”I wrote the character of Peacemaker for him and we offered him the role, but he was offered two movies and we weren\’t paying him a lot, so he had to go where the money was.\”
The rejection ultimately led to one of Gunn\’s most successful creative partnerships. After seeing John Cena\’s comedic performance in \”Trainwreck,\” Gunn cast the WWE superstar-turned-actor in the role.
\”I had always been a fan of John since Trainwreck especially, I thought he was so, so funny in that movie. I met with him, we talked, we became instant, instant friends,\” Gunn said.
The collaboration has proven fruitful, with Cena appearing in \”The Suicide Squad,\” two seasons of \”Peacemaker,\” and future projects planned. Gunn praised both Cena\’s talent and their working relationship, stating: \”I think I love the Peacemaker show more than anything else I\’ve ever done.\”
John Cena as The Peacemaker
John Cena’s portrayal of The Peacemaker in the DC Extended Universe has been widely acclaimed for its blend of humor, depth, and complexity. Debuting in 2021’s “The Suicide Squad,” Cena brings a unique vibrancy to the character—a heavily armed, patriotic antihero whose misguided sense of justice often leads to over-the-top violence and darkly comedic moments.
Cena’s performance perfectly balances Peacemaker’s macho bravado with surprising vulnerability, especially showcased in the HBO Max spin-off series, where layers of trauma and humanity are peeled back beneath the character’s bombastic exterior. His interpretation has solidified Peacemaker as one of DC’s most compelling and unconventional recent characters, thanks largely to Cena’s comic timing, physicality, and unexpected emotional range.
AEW wrestling superstar Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known to fans as MJF, continues his crossover into the world of Hollywood with a major new role. Justin Kroll reports for Deadline that the newlywed star has officially joined the cast of Universal Pictures’ upcoming action sequel ‘Violent Night 2.’
The critically acclaimed wrestler-turned-actor will appear alongside David Harbour (reprising his role as the not-so-jolly, ass-kicking Santa Claus) when the film hits theaters on December 4, 2026.
Details about MJF’s character remain under wraps, but his addition to the project signals continued momentum for the AEW star’s acting ambitions.
AEW Star Maxwell Friedman And Andrew 'King Bach' Bachelor Latest To Join 'Violent Night 2' From Universal And 87North https://t.co/ORf2StPKPS
Also joining the cast is Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, social media influencer and actor, with a supporting roster featuring Kristen Bell, Daniela Melchior, Jared Harris, and Joe Pantoliano. ‘Violent Night 2’ is produced by 87North’s Kelly McCormick and David Leitch, with Tommy Wirkola back as director.
MJF’s previous film credits include a breakout role in A24’s ‘The Iron Claw’ and a part in Netflix’s ‘Happy Gilmore 2.’ In wrestling, MJF is widely regarded as one of the industry’s top heels and continues to draw massive crowds, including a record-setting AEW All In main event at Wembley Stadium in 2023.
BetOnline has released their official odds, offering insight on the favorites and underdogs for each marquee matchup.
Top Matches & Odds (courtesy of BetOnline):
Mixed Tag Team Match: CM Punk & AJ Lee are the strong favorites at -1000, while Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch stand as significant underdogs at +550.
Singles Match: John Cena leads as the favorite with -300 odds against Brock Lesnar, who is a +200 underdog.
Tag Team Match: Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker are heavily favored at -500, outpacing The Usos who are listed at +300.
Women\’s World Championship: Stephanie Vaquer is the dominant favorite at -600, with Iyo Sky positioned as the underdog at +350.
These odds reflect sportsbook confidence in certain storylines and fan-favorite performers heading into the event. All betting lines and specials are available through BetOnline. Please gamble responsibly and note that odds are subject to change as the event draws closer
Wrestling legend and AEW commentator Bryan Danielson recently sat down with Pario Magazine host Jamie Apps to discuss his surprising transition to the commentary booth and his philosophy on making an impact in every role. Danielson revealed that his new position as AEW commentator came as unexpectedly for him as it did for fans.
“I found out the same way everybody else found out… they sent me the tweet Tony Khan sent out and I was just like, ‘Oh, okay. Yep. I guess so.’”
Starting this Wednesday,@bryandanielson The American Dragon will join the Wednesday Night #AEWDynamite commentary team full-time!
Welcome back Bryan on Dynamite this Wednesday Night, + See you on@TNTdrama And/or HBO Max 8pm ET/7pm CT For Saturday Night #AEWCollision TONIGHT!!
Despite the abrupt announcement, Danielson is approaching the new challenge with the earnest work ethic that has defined his celebrated career.
“My philosophy from a commentary standpoint is to do whatever I can to help move the story along, to help things seem more important… try to make sense out of the fun, right?… But to be honest, I’m going to have to develop a stronger philosophy of commentary.
Anything I do, I try to do my very best. I worked at McDonald’s when I was 15 and I literally aspired to be the best burger flipper while I was doing it. Now if I’m going to be on commentary full-time…I want to be the best that I can be to help make the show as good as I can make it.”
Why Bryan Danielson Avoids Social Media
Ever humble and focused on the big picture, Danielson closed the conversation by encouraging fans to focus on AEW rather than his own social media.
“I have no need for people to follow me as an individual. If you’d like to follow AEW, search AEW on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube—the AEW YouTube channel is putting up all these tremendous matches… if you haven’t seen AEW before, check it out, there’s going to be something incredible that’ll blow your mind.”
Legendary comedian and vintage automobile collector Jay Leno discussed his experience wrestling Hulk Hogan and shared insights on the parallels between wrestling and show business during his appearance on Marc Summers Unwraps.
The Hogan Wrestling Experience
Leno described participating in a charity wrestling event with Hulk Hogan, emphasizing the rehearsed and performative nature of the spectacle:
\”I wrestled Hulk Hogan. We did—I did it for charity at some dome. We had 100,000 people. So it was all staged, I\’m assuming, because you rehearsed for six weeks. I run this way, you throw me this way… To this day, people go, \’Jay, I know wrestling is fake, but I could tell, man, you were pissed.\’ I go, \’No, I wasn\’t… No, you can\’t. Don\’t you understand? It\’s not real. We\’re pretend.\’… We\’re acting. It\’s stupid.\”
During another recent episode of his podcast, host Marc Summers recalled his own experience with the Hulkster.
\”I did a personal appearance with him, and we were going to the airport together. His deal was anytime he did a personal appearance, he had to have a yellow Rolls-Royce… And he says to me as we\’re driving to the airport in a yellow Rolls-Royce, \’I hate being recognized.\’ Well, he\’s got the bandana on and he\’s wearing the tights, right?\”
Andy Kaufman and Career Boundaries
During his chat with Leno, Summers prompted a broader discussion by mentioning Andy Kaufman\’s involvement with wrestling. Summers remarked:
\”My feeling was when he [Andy Kaufman] went into the wrestling thing, he kind of crossed the line and I kind of think his career was over with after that. I don\’t know where he was going to go from that…\”
Leno noted the performative element in both wrestling and entertainment:
\”Wrestling was wrestling, you know.\”
Their conversation highlighted the blurred boundaries between reality and performance in both comedy and wrestling. Leno drew a direct parallel between acting for an audience—whether in the ring or on stage—and the public\’s willingness to believe in the spectacle.
Relive the night Jay Leno stepped in the ring with Diamond Dallas Page against the nWo\’s Hollywood Hogan and Dennis Rodman:
Wrestling power couple Myron Reed and Killer Kelly took their relationship to the next level at Wrestling REVOLVER Clean Slate on September 6, creating one of the most memorable moments in recent wrestling history.
Following Reed\’s successful defense of the Wrestling REVOLVER World Championship against TNA\’s Steve Maclin at the Horizon Events Center in Clive, Iowa, Kelly surprised fans by waiting in the ring with one knee bent. In a role reversal of traditional proposals, the two-time TNA Knockouts Tag Team Champion popped the question to her longtime partner.
Digital Exclusive:@Kelly_WP asks @TheBadReed to MARRY HER, in the middle of the ring!
\”Will you marry me?\” Kelly asked as Reed turned around after his victory celebration. The champion\’s heartfelt response sealed the moment: \”I love you no matter what other people say,\” before accepting the proposal and showing off the engagement ring to the cheering crowd.
The engagement marks another major milestone for the couple, who welcomed their first child together, daughter Ruby, in November 2024. Originally due on Halloween, Ruby made her arrival on November 6, adding to the family\’s growing list of special dates.
Killer Kelly and Myron Reed
Both wrestlers have established themselves as prominent figures in the wrestling world. Reed, a former three-time MLW World Middleweight Champion and member of The Rascalz, currently holds the Wrestling REVOLVER World Championship. Kelly, whose real name is Raquel Lourenço, has made her mark in TNA Wrestling as a former two-time Knockouts Tag Team Champion alongside Masha Slamovich.
The couple, who team together as \”Killer Goat\” in mixed tag matches, has been together for several years and announced their pregnancy in September 2024. With their wedding plans now in motion, Reed has jokingly asked fans not to \”jinx their special day by suggesting a wrestling-themed wedding.\”
Logan Paul offered extensive praise for John Cena\’s in-ring abilities during a recent episode of his IMPAULSIVE podcast, providing detailed insights into their match at WWE Clash in Paris on August 31, 2025.
\’About halfway through the match, I felt very viscerally two things. One, holy [S], John Cena is so [F] good. He just… he *is* that good.
There will be people who hear that who know wrestling and people who don\’t know wrestling… The viewer will never truly understand just how difficult this sport is,\’ Paul explained to co-host Mike Majlak.
He\’s been gushing about the match for weeks. During another recent episode, he praised the 17-time world champion as an \”absolute mastermind of the craft\” and said Cena wrestles better than Pablo Picasso painted.
Paul described the transformative experience of facing the WWE legend. Despite the magnitude of the moment, he was able to stay present and appreciate what was unfolding.
\’I\’m in there in the ring with literally the greatest of all time. Not only working, but admiring and also learning. … That was my last match with John Cena. This guy is so [__] good at this. It\’s scary. … John Cena wrestles better than Pablo Picasso paints. Sorry to all the Picasso stands out there, but he is so good at what he does. Working with him was such a privilege… I leveled up not just like, I climbed a couple rungs of the ladder that night, but also in my ability to assess our work.\’
The historic match at Paris La Défense Arena earned a 4.5-star rating from respected wrestling critic Dave Meltzer, which Paul couldn\’t help but bring up.
\”\’Although I did not come away with the victory, Mike, I did come away with more victories than I can count in terms of what I learned in this sport and hopefully the respect that I gained because I knew that this match was going to be a banger… it got a Dave Meltzer 4.5 star rating, which is tough. He\’s a tough critic,\”\’\” Paul noted.
The event marked Cena\’s final European match before his retirement at year\’s end, with WWE setting a new attendance record of 30,343 fans at the venue.
AEW Dynamite returns this Wednesday night (September 10) from the legendary 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. AEW wraps up its residency at the storied venue with plenty to look forward to.
AEW World Champion Hangman Page collides with Josh Alexander in a heated non-title grudge match, while the women’s division takes center stage with a no-holds-barred Philly Street Fight between Toni Storm and Skye Blue. Plus, Shelton Benjamin faces Ricochet in their first singles clash in six years, and Mercedes Moné teams up with Emi Sakura to take on Riho and Alex Windsor in tag action that could shift the TBS title picture.
AEW Dynamite Announced Matches and Segments:
Hangman Adam Page vs. Josh Alexander – Non-title Grudge Match After Page handed Alexander a hard loss in his AEW debut, the challenger is out for redemption. Can the World Champion hold his ground, or will Alexander get the last laugh?
Toni Storm vs. Skye Blue – Philly Street Fight Expect chaos as these fierce rivals compete under street fight rules—with Philadelphia’s hardcore wrestling legacy looming large.
Shelton Benjamin vs. Ricochet Six years since their last singles meeting, two of wrestling’s most athletic competitors look to settle the score and gain momentum ahead of All Out.
Mercedes Moné & Emi Sakura vs. Riho & Alex Windsor With the TBS title scene at a boiling point, Moné enlists Emi Sakura to help take on Riho (making her return) and Windsor, both seeking vengeance after recent attacks.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest AEW news on the road to All Out 2025 next weekend on Saturday, September 20.
Before Riho vs Moné for the TBS Title at #AEWAllOut, the CEO aims to settle business when she teams with Riho’s trainer Sakura vs Riho + Windsor THIS WEDNESDAY! pic.twitter.com/4iAYr5C2Vt
Wrestling fans will have a few more opportunities to meet Sting before the icon rides off into the sunset for good. Following his in-ring retirement match at AEW Revolution 2024, the WCW legend announced he\’d embark on his \’2025 or Never\’ meet and greet tour, which has been in full swing.
I have enjoyed meeting fans at events around the world.
As much as I have loved interacting with you all in the traditional Stinger war paint, I’ve decided that 2025 will be my last year appearing in full gear.
During a conversation with The Wrestling Classic, Sting revealed that he\’s adding \”many, many\” more dates to his appearance schedule. Despite not providing specifics, Sting assured fans that details are forthcoming, and we haven\’t seen the last of him.
\”I’m getting a lot of responses from the fans, yes. And, you know, the common question is, ‘Are you sure this is it? I mean, you’re never going to be in the face paint again? What about if you did Surfer Sting?’
It’s like, I can’t pull off Surfer Sting anymore. so yeah, I’m not… It’s not a goodbye, okay?\”
– Sting talks about his future in wrestling
This news is significant for wrestling fans eager to see Sting one last time and marks the end of an era as Sting confirmed that he will not return to his previous personas, including \’Surfer Sting.\’ The face paint, synonymous with Sting\’s illustrious career, is officially retired, signaling the end of a legendary chapter in professional wrestling.
Check out Sting\’s complete interview on Casual Conversations:
AJ Lee made a triumphant return to WWE on last Friday’s episode of SmackDown, marking her first appearance in the company in nearly a decade. The former Divas Champion addressed her loyal supporters on Monday via social media, dedicating this run to the “weirdos” who never forgot about her during the time away.
“You’ve had my back for a decade. This run is for you, my wonderful weirdos,” in a nod to the fans who have stood by her throughout her career.
Lee is set to appear on tonight’s episode of WWE Raw, where she is expected to continue building momentum following her comeback.
Wrestlepalooza
AJ Lee\’s WWE return match is expected to take place next weekend at WWE Wrestlepalooza, where she\’ll team up with CM Punk to face Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch in a high-profile mixed tag team match. As of this writing, the confirmed matches include:
John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar: Billed as their final encounter.
IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer for the vacant Women\’s World Championship: Naomi vacated the title due to pregnancy, and Raw GM Adam Pearce set up this match between IYO SKY (the original #1 contender) and Stephanie Vaquer (who earned her shot via a battle royal) to determine the new champion.
WWE Wrestlepalooza takes place next Saturday, September 20, 2025 and will be the first WWE premium live event streaming on ESPN+.
WWE NXT returns to the Performance Center in Orlando, FL, this Tuesday night at 8 PM ET on CW Network (and streaming on Netflix worldwide), as the brand shifts into high gear on the road to NXT No Mercy.
North American Champion Ethan Page puts his pride on the line in a Flag Match against Tavion Heights, while Tag Team Champions DarkState (Dion Lennox & Osiris Griffin) defend against powerhouses Hank Walker & Tank Ledger in a can’t-miss clash.
The women’s roster spotlights a triple threat elimination match for the next shot at the NXT Women’s Tag Team Titles, with Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley & Jazmyn Nyx), The Culling (Izzi Dame & Tatum Paxley), and Sol Ruca & Zaria battling it out for supremacy. Plus, Faby Apache collides with Lainey Reid in the first round of the Women’s Speed Championship tournament.
Meanwhile, Je’Von Evans and Josh Briggs look to settle their heated rivalry after last week’s wild brawl, and Trick Williams will call out #DIY following their dramatic confrontation.
WWE NXT Announced Matches and Segments:
Ethan Page vs. Tavion Heights – Flag Match
DarkState (c) vs. Hank & Tank – NXT Tag Team Championship match
Fatal Influence vs. The Culling vs. Sol Ruca & Zaria – Women’s Tag Team Title #1 Contenders Elimination Match
Faby Apache vs. Lainey Reid – Women’s Speed Championship Tournament First Round Match
Je’Von Evans vs. Josh Briggs
Trick Williams calls out #DIY
Expect additional appearances and surprises as NXT continues its march toward No Mercy. Don’t miss what promises to be a monumental episode with championship implications and unresolved vendettas coming to a head.
After their intense back and forth last week, @WWEJeVonEvans looks to get some payback when he takes on Josh Briggs THIS TUESDAY on #WWENXT!
WWE Raw heads to Milwaukee\’s Fiserv Forum tonight for what promises to be a pivotal episode in the road to Wrestlepalooza. The show streams live on Netflix at 8 PM ET, featuring the highly anticipated return of AJ Lee to Monday Night Raw for the first time in over a decade.
Following her memorable SmackDown appearance, AJ Lee is expected to confront Becky Lynch tonight, with speculation mounting about a potential power couples tag team match at Wrestlepalooza featuring AJ Lee and CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins.
The women\’s championship picture takes center stage as IYO SKY and Stephanie Vaquer will officially sign their contract for the Women\’s World Championship match at Wrestlepalooza. Meanwhile, AJ Styles seeks redemption against El Grande Americano after losing his Intercontinental Title due to interference.
The Usos story continues to evolve as Jimmy and Jey, now reunited after Jimmy\’s dramatic save last week, will address their future and ongoing feud with The Vision. The eight-time tag team champions are expected to make a significant announcement regarding their next chapter.
Tonight\’s Announced Matches and Segments:
AJ Lee returns: Her first Raw appearance in over 10 years, Becky Lynch confrontation expected
Contract signing: IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer for Women\’s World Championship at Wrestlepalooza
AJ Styles vs. El Grande Americano: Styles seeks payback for Intercontinental Title interference
Lyra Valkyria vs. Raquel Rodriguez: Valkyria returns to action following SummerSlam
The Usos reunion announcement: Jimmy and Jey address their future and The Vision feud
Additional appearances confirmed for Seth Rollins, CM Punk, Rhea Ripley, Penta, and Jey Uso, with more matches likely to be announced throughout the evening as Wrestlepalooza anticipation builds.
WWE has announced three NXT live events across Michigan and Ohio, marking the developmental brand\’s first return to these markets in over five years. The tour will span three consecutive nights from October 9-11, 2025.
The tour kicks off Thursday, October 9 at KEMBA Live! in Columbus, Ohio, followed by Friday, October 10 at Detroit\’s historic Masonic Temple, and concludes Saturday, October 11 at The Agora Theatre in Cleveland.
The events will showcase NXT\’s current championship lineup, including NXT Champion Oba Femi, NXT Women\’s Champion Jacy Jayne, NXT North American Champion Ethan Page, NXT Women\’s North American Champion Sol Ruca, and TNA Champion Trick Williams.
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, September 10 at 10am ET through AXS.com. Wrestling fans can access an exclusive presale beginning Tuesday, September 9 at 10am ET using code \”WWENXT\” on AXS.com, with presale access running until 11:59pm ET the same day.
The announcement represents a significant return for NXT to these Midwest markets, where the brand hasn\’t held live events since before 2020.
Wade Barrett has been removed from WWE’s main roster commentary duties with no immediate timeline for his return.
According to PWInsider The former Intercontinental Champion is reportedly “off the road” indefinitely and will not be part of the broadcast team for Monday Night Raw or Friday Night SmackDown moving forward.
This change became apparent during the September 5, 2025 episode of SmackDown, where Michael Cole announced that he and Corey Graves would serve as the commentary duo for the blue brand over the next couple of months.
Cole and Graves are now set to handle both Raw and SmackDown as a two-person team, filling the gap left by Barrett’s absence as well as other commentators like Joe Tessitore, who is committed to college football coverage.
Barrett’s WWE Commentary Career
Barrett returned to WWE in 2020 as a commentator, starting on NXT before transitioning to the main roster. He has been a key voice on shows like Raw and SmackDown in recent years, bringing his experience as a former wrestler to the commentary booth.
The exact reason for Barrett’s removal has not been disclosed, leaving fans and insiders speculating on the circumstances. WWE has not issued an official statement on Barrett’s status.
With Graves shifting focus to the main roster, NXT will revert to its previous two-man booth of Vic Joseph and Booker T. Updates will be provided if more details emerge about Barrett’s situation.
I had no idea Nicole felt this way, and I’m happy to have this ‘conversation’ any time she likes. I wish she’d brought it up when we said hello to each other at Raw, rather than via her podcast. I don’t understand the avoiding claim at all, simply not true. https://t.co/H7lkgKxkp0
Great news, fight fans.. @NikkiAndBrie and I have spoken, we’ve smoothed things over, and I’ve graciously been allowed back into the Bella Army. Fully paid-up member since FCW 2008 ???
A difference of perspective – to which we are all entitled – but to be clear, some of the…
WWE has announced that 17-time World Champion John Cena will make his final appearances in Boston and New York City this November as part of his farewell tour. Cena is scheduled for two episodes of WWE Raw from two iconic venues:
Monday, November 10: TD Garden in Boston, MA
Monday, November 17: Madison Square Garden in New York City
Tickets for both events go on sale Wednesday, September 10, with a presale beginning September 9 via Ticketmaster.
As part of his farewell tour which comes to an end this December, John Cena will make his final appearances in Boston on Nov. 10 at @tdgarden and New York City at @TheGarden on Nov. 17!
Cena’s legendary WWE career includes two World Title wins at TD Garden and a memorable 2008 Royal Rumble victory at Madison Square Garden. These November dates come after Cena’s highly anticipated matchup with Brock Lesnar at Wrestlepalooza on September 20.
Special Raw Priority Pass packages are available for fans looking for a premium experience at Madison Square Garden.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Cena’s farewell appearances and his matchup with Brock Lesnar at Wrestlepalooza.
WWE has made a series of new trademark filings, according to recent filings with the USPTO database obtained by SEScoops. Here are the key details:
Succession: Perhaps the most attention-grabbing of the new filings. The name is famously associated with the acclaimed HBO television series, but WWE has now secured rights to use it for their own entertainment purposes.
WWE Films: This trademark is likely a standard renewal, protecting the branding of WWE’s film production division. The studio has a legacy of producing movies featuring popular WWE Superstars.
Reckoning: Wrestling fans may recall this name from Mia Yim’s stint as “Reckoning” during her time in the Retribution faction in 2020.
Filing Date: September 4, 2025
The “goods and services” description for all three trademarks is broad, granting WWE the flexibility to use these names across a wide variety of wrestling-related performances and media.
WWE Trademarks
Other recent trademark filings from this summer include:
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