WWE is gearing up for WWE Evolution 2, a premium all-women\’s event, amid rumors of Gail Kim\’s surprise return.
Gail Kim has been spotted backstage at WWE NXT shows recently, according to Fightful, hinting at improved relations with WWE executives.
The event is scheduled for July 13, 2025, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, where Kim may make an unexpected appearance.
WWE has maintained secrecy about Kim\’s possible involvement in the event, but an on-screen homecoming would be exactly the type of buzz worthy surprise fans are hoping for this weekend.
Since being fired from TNA Wrestling on March 25, 2025, ending her 14-year tenure with the company, Gail Kim has become one of the most sought-after free agents in professional wrestling.
Following her departure, Kim issued a statement on Instagram expressing gratitude for the support she received and promising that “this is not the end of Gail Kim in the wrestling world,” emphasizing her continued passion for the industry after 17 years with one company.
Kim made her first post-TNA wrestling appearance at the National Wrestling Alliance’s 2025 Crockett Cup event on May 17 in Philadelphia, where she participated in an exclusive autograph signing.
While she has stated she is taking time for self-care and preparation for what lies ahead, both WWE and AEW are expected to pursue her for leadership positions given her extensive experience as a producer and her respected insights into women’s wrestling.????????????????
Charlotte Flair addressed speculation about her undergoing cosmetic procedures in a personal essay published in The Player\’s Tribune.
\”I’ve dealt with stuff like that my whole career … but I try not to take it personally.” Flair said. “On some level, I get it: I’m (relatively) famous, and I make a very good living from work that involves showing off my body.\”
Flair discusses the challenge of her accomplishments being overshadowed by remarks on her appearance and the difficulty in separating her character \”Charlotte Flair\” from her real self, Ashley.
\”The smarter that people get about wrestling?? The easier they seem to forget the basic concepts. Like the concept that I’m not Charlotte Flair.\”
Charlotte Flair is set to compete at WWE Evolution 2 on July 13, 2025, in Atlanta, where she and her partner Alexa Bliss will challenge for the WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships in a Fatal 4-Way match. The duo, representing SmackDown after qualifying by defeating The Secret Service and Michin & B-Fab in a triple-threat match, will face current champions Raquel Rodriguez & Roxanne Perez, Raw\’s Kabuki Warriors (Asuka & Kairi Sane), and NXT\’s Sol Ruca & Zaria.
This notable pairing of two decorated former singles champions has already surprised fans, and Flair aims to add another title to her illustrious career following her recent loss to Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania 41, with no indication she\’ll be backing out of this high-stakes championship opportunity.
When Ricky Stars received “the call” from Triple H about the possibility of WWE, he initially thought it was a prank. During a visit to Seattle, Triple H called Saints to express WWE\’s interest in him, though not immediately for the main roster.
Saints spoke about his road from free agency to NXT gold during a recent conversation with longtime friend Cody Rhodes.
\”Triple H called me. Just got off a flight to Seattle actually, and he called me and I was just like, ‘Uh,’ because I didn’t know the number, and it didn’t say Stamford or anything so I was like who is this? And I always answer it. Even if it’s an unknown, I’ll always answer…
So Hunter calls me, I’m getting off this flight in Seattle and I can barely hear him. The airport’s so loud and he asks me, ‘Hey, would you wanna come in?’ And, ‘We’re interested,’ blah, blah. ‘We’d love to have you. You’re talented,’ X, Y and Z and I was like, ‘Oh yeah, sure. Hell yeah.’\” – Ricky Starks on What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes
Saints was caught off guard when Triple H asked his next question.
– \”Right as I’m getting on the tram, he says something about — he was like, ‘Raw or SmackDown’ and I was like, ‘Wait, what? What did you say?’ And I was so scared to say, ‘Hey, could you repeat yourself?’ Because I know how it feels, that I said, ‘Yeah, yeah, for sure.’\”
Triple H\’s invitation included a meeting with Shawn Michaels, leading Saints to eventually win the NXT North American Championship.
\”Basically, what he was saying was, ‘Hey, we’re not gonna put you on Raw or SmackDown just yet…’ But he wanted me to meet Shawn (Michaels), and so that was like a big thing. I was like, ‘Of course I will. Yes, I would love that.’ That’s all I really wanted is just resources. I feel like I’m a rough diamond that just needs a little polishing.\”
Check out the full interview right here:
Ricky Saints has quickly become a prominent figure in WWE NXT since his February 2025 debut, capturing the NXT North American Championship from Shawn Spears on April 1 before losing it to Ethan Page on May 27 in a heated rivalry that left Saints injured with a laryngeal contusion.
After recovering and winning a challenging Gauntlet Match against the Vanity Project trio on July 8, Saints is set to face Page in a Falls Count Anywhere match at the Great American Bash on July 12.
Broadcaster Scott Stanford, a longtime WWE employee, has announced his departure from the company after 15 years. He shared the news via Twitter, expressing gratitude and hope to return one day.
\”When you walk out of the studio on your last day @WWE ! 15 year run… nothing but love! Hope to make it back one day!\” – Twitter
Stanford joined WWE in 2009, hosting WWE Bottom Line and later becoming a commentator on WWE Superstars. In more recent years, he’s hosted pre-shows and studio programs such as Raw Talk, SmackDown LowDown, Afterburn, and This Week in WWE.
AEW Dynamite airs live tonight at 8:00 PM ET on TBS and Max from the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Texas. This is the go-home show for AEW All In: Texas, which takes place this Saturday, July 12th.
Confirmed Matches
All-Star 8-Man Tag Team Match features Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, and The Young Bucks taking on Hangman Adam Page, Will Ospreay, Katsuyori Shibata, and Powerhouse Hobbs. This match brings together several ongoing storylines, with Page getting another chance to get his hands on Moxley ahead of their AEW World Championship match at All In: Texas.
Samoa Joe vs. Wheeler Yuta continues the feud between The Opps and the Death Riders. This singles match promises intense action as these factions continue their rivalry heading into the weekend.
4-Way Match for Casino Gauntlet Position will determine who gets the No. 2 spot in the Women’s Casino Gauntlet Match at All In: Texas. The competitors are Megan Bayne, Tay Melo, Queen Aminata, and Thekla, with the winner earning a significant advantage in Saturday’s gauntlet match.
TONIGHT!
It's the FINAL #AEWDynamite before #AEWAllInTexas! What are you looking forward to the most from the show?
Final Face-to-Face Between Champions brings together AEW Women’s World Champion “Timeless” Toni Storm and TBS Champion Mercedes Moné. This confrontation sets the stage for their highly anticipated championship match at All In: Texas, with tensions expected to reach a boiling point between these two champions.
“Talky Talk” Between Mark Briscoe and MJF promises to be explosive, as both wrestlers are known for their unfiltered mic work. This segment will further build their storyline heading into All In: Texas weekend.
Tonight’s Dynamite serves as the final opportunity to build momentum and storylines before Saturday’s All In: Texas pay-per-view event, making it a must-watch episode for AEW fans.
WWE\’s groundbreaking all-women\’s premium live event returns for the first time since 2018, taking place Sunday, July 13, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Evolution caps off WWE\’s historic weekend takeover, showcasing the incredible depth and talent of today\’s women\’s division.
When & Where to Watch
Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025 Start Time: 8:00 PM ET Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia Streaming: Peacock (United States) International: Netflix
Evolution will stream live exclusively on Peacock in the United States and on Netflix in most international markets, following the same distribution model as other WWE premium live events.
Confirmed Match Card
Women\’s World Championship: Iyo Sky (c) vs. Rhea Ripley
WWE Women\’s Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Trish Stratus
Women\’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Bayley vs. Lyra Valkyria
Women\’s Battle Royal: Winner receives championship match at WWE Clash in Paris
Championship Spotlight
Women\’s World Championship
Iyo Sky defends her Women\’s World Championship against Rhea Ripley in what promises to be a hard-hitting encounter. The match represents the culmination of ongoing tensions between the champion and the former Judgment Day member.
WWE Women\’s Championship
Tiffany Stratton puts her WWE Women\’s Championship on the line against WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus. The match pits the young champion against one of the most accomplished women in WWE history.
Triple Threat Championship Match
The Women\’s Intercontinental Championship will be decided in a triple threat match featuring champion Becky Lynch defending against both Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. This match showcases the depth of talent across multiple generations of WWE women\’s wrestlers.
Cross-Promotional Elements
Evolution features significant cross-promotional storylines, with Jordynne Grace earning a championship opportunity after her impressive performances. Grace\’s journey from TNA Wrestling to this championship match represents the continued collaboration between WWE and other promotions.
The event also showcases Blake Monroe\’s continued integration into WWE programming following her debut at NXT Great American Bash the previous day.
Historic Return
Evolution\’s return after seven years highlights how far women\’s wrestling has come in WWE. The original 2018 event broke new ground as the first-ever all-women\’s pay-per-view, featuring matches at all levels of the card and proving the drawing power of women\’s wrestling.
The 2025 version promises to showcase the incredible evolution of the women\’s division, with multiple championship matches and storylines that demonstrate the depth of talent available across WWE\’s brands.
Ticket Information
Individual tickets for Evolution are available via Ticketmaster.com. Two-day combo packages with Saturday Night\’s Main Event start at $152, providing access to both weekend events at State Farm Arena.
VIP packages through On Location offer premium experiences including ringside seating, all-inclusive pre-show hospitality featuring WWE Superstar meet-and-greets, and exclusive photo opportunities.
Women\’s Division Showcase
Evolution represents WWE\’s commitment to showcasing their women\’s roster on the biggest stage possible. The event will feature championship matches across multiple divisions, demonstrating the company\’s investment in women\’s wrestling as a main event attraction.
The Women\’s Battle Royal adds an additional layer of excitement, with the winner earning a championship match at the upcoming WWE Clash in Paris, extending storylines beyond the Atlanta weekend.
Weekend Finale
Evolution serves as the perfect finale to WWE\’s unprecedented Atlanta weekend, following NXT Great American Bash and Saturday Night\’s Main Event. The all-women\’s showcase caps off four days of premium wrestling content that began with ROH Supercard of Honor on Friday.
WWE\’s legendary Saturday Night\’s Main Event returns to primetime television on Saturday, July 12, 2025, headlined by Bill Goldberg\’s retirement match against World Heavyweight Champion Gunther. The NBC special takes place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta as part of WWE\’s massive weekend takeover.
The primetime special will air live on NBC across the United States with a simultaneous stream on Peacock. International fans can watch live on YouTube, following the format of previous Saturday Night\’s Main Event specials.
Complete Match Card
World Heavyweight Championship – Goldberg\’s Final Match: Gunther (c) vs. Bill Goldberg
Singles Match: Seth Rollins vs. LA Knight
Singles Match: Randy Orton vs. Drew McIntyre
Goldberg\’s Final Chapter
The main event features WWE Hall of Famer Bill Goldberg in what has been announced as his retirement match. The WCW legend challenges World Heavyweight Champion Gunther in his hometown of Atlanta, where WCW once ruled supreme. This emotional farewell takes place in the city where Goldberg first rose to prominence during his iconic undefeated streak.
Goldberg\’s last in-ring match was in 2022, making this comeback at age 58 a significant moment for wrestling history. The question remains whether the veteran has one more spear and jackhammer left to capture championship gold in his final performance.
Key Storylines
Seth Rollins vs. LA Knight
LA Knight earned his opportunity against Seth Rollins through a sneak attack on \”The Visionary\” during Monday Night Raw. Knight is on a long list of wrestlers wanting to get their hands on Rollins, but the Megastar moved to the front of the line with his aggressive tactics.
Randy Orton vs. Drew McIntyre
Drew McIntyre made his return on SmackDown after being out of action since his Steel Cage Match loss to Damian Priest in May. The Scottish Warrior immediately targeted Randy Orton with verbal attacks, but made the mistake of turning his back on The Viper, leading to an RKO and this grudge match.
Saturday Night\’s Main Event Legacy
Saturday Night\’s Main Event was revived in late 2024 after lying dormant for more than 16 years. The show now airs approximately four times per year as special NBC primetime events, featuring a mix of Raw and SmackDown superstars in high-profile matches.
This marks the first time Saturday Night\’s Main Event has ever taken place in Atlanta, adding to the city\’s rich WWE history that includes WrestleMania XXVII, Royal Rumble events, and most recently Bad Blood 2024.
Ticket Information
Individual tickets for Saturday Night\’s Main Event are available via Ticketmaster.com. Combo packages with Evolution (July 13) start at $152, providing access to both State Farm Arena events. VIP packages through On Location offer premium seating, pre-show hospitality with WWE Superstar appearances, and ringside photo opportunities.
Competition Weekend
Saturday Night\’s Main Event serves as the evening centerpiece of WWE\’s Atlanta triple-header, following NXT Great American Bash at 3:00 PM ET and preceding Evolution on Sunday. The event airs during the same weekend as AEW\’s All In: Texas, creating a massive weekend of wrestling content for fans.
Ring of Honor kicks off the biggest wrestling weekend of 2025 with Supercard of Honor, taking place Friday, July 11, 2025, at Esports Stadium Arlington in Arlington, Texas. The event marks the 18th edition of this annual showcase and will air exclusively on Honor Club.
When & Where to Watch
Date: Friday, July 11, 2025 Start Time: 8:00 PM ET Venue: Esports Stadium Arlington, Arlington, Texas Streaming: Honor Club exclusively via WatchROH.com
American viewers can watch the event live via an HonorClub subscription at WatchROH.com, with the event included in the monthly package. The service is accessible worldwide for international fans.
Supercard of Honor takes place this Friday, and with a stacked card already announced, and one more episode of ROH TV still to air this week!
— ROH – Ring of Honor Wrestling (@ringofhonor) July 6, 2025
Confirmed Match Card
Despite being less than a week away, only four official matches have been announced for the pay-per-view:
ROH World Championship: Bandido (c) vs. Konosuke Takeshita
ROH Women\’s World Championship: Athena (c) vs. Thunder Rosa
ROH World Tag Team Championship: Dustin Rhodes & Sammy Guevara (c) vs. Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo
ROH Pure Championship: Lee Moriarty (c) vs. Blue Panther
Key Championship Matches
ROH World Championship
Konosuke Takeshita declared his contention for Bandido\’s ROH World Championship during a backstage segment at Global Wars Mexico, where the title match was later announced for Supercard of Honor. This match showcases ROH\’s international flavor with Mexico\’s Bandido defending against Japan\’s hard-hitting Takeshita.
ROH Women\’s World Championship
The women\’s division takes center stage as ROH Women\’s World Champion Athena defends her title against Thunder Rosa. This represents one of Rosa\’s biggest matches since joining the ROH roster and could serve as a springboard for future storylines.
ROH World Tag Team Championship
On the July 3, 2025 episode of ROH, The Infantry (Capt. Shawn Dean and Carlie Bravo) defeated Top Flight (Dante Martin and Darius Martin) in a #1 Contender\’s match to earn their shot at Sons of Texas (Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara) for the ROH World Tag Team Championships.
Ticket Information
Tickets for ROH Supercard of Honor are exclusively available through the purchase of an All In VIP or Champion VIP package for AEW All In: Texas. These premium bundles are the only way to secure entry to the event.
Additional Matches Expected
Several potential matches could be added to the card, including a six-man tag bout featuring John Silver and The Dark Order against Preston Vance\’s Frat House faction. Additionally, the budding tournament to crown the inaugural ROH Women\’s Pure Championship winner could see first-round matchups on the show.
On April 12, 2025, Tony Khan introduced the ROH Women\’s Pure Championship to the Ring of Honor women\’s division, with Serena Deeb, Queen Aminata, Deonna Purrazzo, Taya Valkyrie, Leila Grey, and Billie Starkz officially announced for the tournament.
Event Background
Originally scheduled for Atlantic City during WrestleMania weekend, the event was rescheduled for July 11 at Esports Stadium Arlington as part of All In weekend. This move aligns with AEW\’s All In event, creating a perfect storm of wrestling entertainment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Supercard of Honor is a professional wrestling event annually presented by Ring of Honor, traditionally taking place during WrestleMania weekend. It has been a yearly tradition since 2006, marking this as the 18th edition of the event.
AEW\’s flagship annual event makes history as the first professional wrestling show at Globe Life Field and the first All In event on American soil. Taking place Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Arlington, Texas, this Texas-sized spectacle promises to be AEW\’s most stacked card of the year.
When & Where to Watch
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Start Time: 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT / 12:00 PM PT Venue: Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas Price: $49.99
How to Watch:
Traditional Pay-Per-View providers
Amazon Prime Video (with $10 TVOD credit for US customers)
TrillerTV
YouTube PPV
PPV.com
A 2-hour pre-show begins at 1:00 PM ET, featuring additional matches before the main card.
Complete Match Card
World Championship Matches
AEW World Championship – Texas Death Match: Jon Moxley (c) vs. \”Hangman\” Adam Page
AEW Women\’s World Championship: \”Timeless\” Toni Storm (c) vs. Mercedes Moné
The AEW World Championship takes center stage in a Texas Death Match between champion Jon Moxley and \”Hangman\” Adam Page. Page earned this opportunity by winning the men\’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament, setting up a redemption story as he attempts to reclaim the title he once held. The Texas Death Match stipulation adds extra intensity to this already personal rivalry.
Historic Championship Unification
Perhaps the most anticipated match sees the return of one of wrestling\’s greatest rivalries. Kenny Omega puts his AEW International Championship on the line against Kazuchika Okada\’s AEW Continental Championship in a winner-take-all unification match. The victor will be crowned the inaugural AEW Unified Champion, adding another chapter to these legends\’ storied history.
High-Stakes Tag Team Action
The Young Bucks defend their Executive Vice President status against Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay. If Strickland and Ospreay lose, they cannot challenge for the AEW World Championship for one full year, adding massive stakes to this grudge match.
Historic Significance
AEW All In: Texas marks several firsts:
First AEW pay-per-view held in Texas
First professional wrestling event at Globe Life Field
First All In event held in the United States
AEW\’s first afternoon pay-per-view
First All In to stream on Amazon Prime Video
All In: Texas Week Events
The weekend features a full lineup of events across the Arlington and Garland area:
July 9: AEW Dynamite (Curtis Culwell Center, Garland)
July 10: AEW Collision (Curtis Culwell Center, Garland)
July 11: ROH Supercard of Honor (Esports Stadium Arlington)
July 11-12: Starrcast convention (Sheraton Arlington Hotel)
On Saturday morning before All In, AEW will host a \”Texas Tailgate\” inside Texas Live!\’s Shift4 Arena, with an \”After Party\” in The Arlington Backyard immediately following the event.
WWE\’s developmental brand returns to Atlanta for NXT The Great American Bash 2025, taking place Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the historic Center Stage Theater. The event notably airs head-to-head with AEW\’s All In: Texas, marking the 13th Great American Bash under the WWE banner.
When & Where to Watch
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Start Time: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT Venue: Center Stage Theater, Atlanta, Georgia Streaming: Peacock (United States), Netflix (International)
The event will stream live exclusively on Peacock in the United States and on Netflix in most international markets. For all other countries, the show will be available on the WWE Network.
Complete Match Card
NXT Championship: Oba Femi (c) vs. Yoshiki Inamura
NXT Women\’s North American Championship: Sol Ruca (c) vs. Izzi Dame
Tag Team Match: Jordynne Grace & Blake Monroe vs. Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley & Jacy Jayne)
TNA World Championship Contract Signing: Trick Williams, Joe Hendry, and Mike Santana
Championship Showdowns
NXT Championship Match
The powerhouse champion Oba Femi defends his title against Pro Wrestling NOAH\’s Yoshiki Inamura, continuing the cross-promotional rivalry that\’s added an international flair to the NXT main event scene. Inamura earned his shot by defeating Jasper Troy in a hard-fought number one contender\’s match on July 1, setting up this international clash for NXT\’s top prize.
NXT Women\’s North American Championship
Sol Ruca\’s athleticism and momentum will be tested against the relentless Izzi Dame in what promises to be a high-energy, fast-paced contest. Dame earned this championship opportunity after pinning Ruca in a recent tag team match, thanks to an inadvertent spear from Ruca\’s partner Zaria.
Cross-Promotional Elements
One of the most intriguing segments involves the contract signing for the TNA World Championship match at TNA\’s Slammiversary. Current champion Trick Williams, who became the first WWE-contracted wrestler to hold any TNA title at NXT Battleground, will face both Joe Hendry and Mike Santana in a three-way match on July 20, representing the continued partnership between WWE and TNA Wrestling.
The event also features a tag team match between Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe against Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Jacy Jayne), marking Monroe\’s televised WWE debut. Grace earned a shot at the women\’s championship at Evolution after her impressive victory in a number one contender\’s match.
Historic Venue
The Great American Bash returns to the historic Center Stage Theater – the former home of WCW Saturday Night from 1989-1992. This marks a nostalgic homecoming for the event, as the last time Great American Bash was in the Georgia area was the 1992 event.
Competition with AEW
The event\’s 3:00 PM ET start time puts it in direct competition with AEW\’s All In: Texas, which also begins at 3:00 PM ET. This head-to-head battle represents the most significant scheduling conflict between WWE and AEW since the Monday Night Wars era.
The Great American Bash serves as the opening act for WWE\’s Atlanta triple-header weekend, followed by Saturday Night\’s Main Event at 8:00 PM ET the same day, and Evolution on Sunday, July 13.
Pat McAfee has been absent from WWE Raw commentary for several weeks, with the popular host citing exhaustion as the primary reason for his break from the announce desk.
Speaking on \”The Pat McAfee Show,\” the former NFL punter explained his decision to step away: \”Continuing to just kind of catch up on life as a whole. Post-Money in the Bank, pre-Night of Champions feels like a good time. I was getting pretty exhausted there. So shoutout to everybody at the WWE looking out for me, too. Very, very thankful.\”
Demanding Schedule Takes Its Toll
McAfee\’s grueling schedule has been particularly intense, as he produces and hosts a five-day-a-week show while managing his growing company with 14 employees and caring for his 2-year-old daughter. The multi-media personality had been juggling his daily ESPN show, WWE Raw commentary duties, and various other commitments since returning to full-time WWE commentary in January 2025.
Since Money in the Bank earlier this month, Wade Barrett initially filled in for McAfee on Raw, with Corey Graves subsequently taking over the color commentary position alongside Michael Cole for the past two weeks.
Future Commitments Add Complexity
Adding to McAfee\’s scheduling challenges, ESPN has confirmed that \”The Pat McAfee Show\” will broadcast live from Atlanta on July 14 for Home Run Derby coverage, emanating from the Coca-Cola Roxy adjacent to Truist Park. This commitment further demonstrates the competing demands on McAfee\’s time between his ESPN obligations and WWE responsibilities.
McAfee addressed criticism from some fans on social media, defending his decision by highlighting his extensive workload: \”I produce/host a 5 day a week show, have been on the go every week since Dublin last year before College Football.\”
No Clear Return Timeline
While McAfee hasn\’t provided a specific return date to WWE programming, his comments suggest the hiatus was planned around WWE\’s event schedule. The timing between Money in the Bank and Night of Champions appeared strategically chosen for his break.
The absence represents a three-week break from WWE, where McAfee has served as lead analyst on Raw since the show\’s Netflix debut earlier this year. Given his pattern of taking time off during football season, this mid-year break reflects the demanding nature of his multi-platform career.
McAfee\’s situation highlights the challenges faced by talent working across multiple high-profile platforms, balancing personal well-being with professional commitments in today\’s fast-paced media landscape.
Cody Rhodes has unveiled his latest persona transformation, evolving from \”The American Nightmare\” to the \”Nightmare King\” ahead of his SummerSlam 2025 championship rematch with John Cena.
Rhodes announced the change via Twitter with an image of himself holding the King of the Ring crown, declaring simply: \”Nightmare King @WWE.\” WWE\’s official account responded with \”We\’re speechless…\”
Rhodes, a master storyteller who has utilized numerous personas throughout his career, strategically combines his iconic \”American Nightmare\” identity with his recent King of the Ring victory. The timing is deliberate—Rhodes faces the nemesis who took his WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41 in a controversial finish involving Travis Scott.
Rhodes earned his crown by defeating longtime friend Randy Orton at Night of Champions on June 28, showcasing a more aggressive edge. The victory guaranteed his SummerSlam title shot and made him one of only seven superstars to win both the Royal Rumble and King of the Ring while also being WWE Champion.
The Stakes
After acknowledging fan disappointment with their WrestleMania encounter, Rhodes has promised to \”get them to the finish line\” at SummerSlam. The \”Nightmare King\” persona signals a darker, more determined approach as he seeks redemption against Cena, now wrestling\’s most decorated champion with 17 world titles.
As SummerSlam approaches, one thing is certain: the Nightmare King is coming for his throne.
Sami Zayn\’s night on the July 7 episode of WWE Raw took a devastating turn before his scheduled match against Bron Breakker even began, resulting in his indefinite removal from WWE programming.
As Zayn made his entrance for what was expected to be a competitive singles match, Karrion Kross launched a brutal blindside attack from behind. With assistance from Scarlett, who provided the weapon, Kross struck Zayn repeatedly in his already-injured ribs with a steel lead pipe, leaving the former Intercontinental Champion writhing in pain on the entrance ramp.
WWE official Adam Pearce and medical personnel immediately rushed to the scene, confiscating the weapon and calling for medical assistance. Despite the vicious assault and visible injuries, Zayn demonstrated his characteristic determination by insisting he could still compete in his scheduled match against Breakker.
Zayn\’s Stubborn Determination Proves Costly
Against Pearce\’s wishes and medical advice urging him to withdraw, Zayn pushed past officials and humorously \”diagnosed\” himself as fit to compete. The weakened superstar entered the ring to face Bron Breakker, but the damage from Kross\’s attack had already been done.
Breakker, who had earlier declared his vision of a WWE \”without Sami Zayn,\” capitalized on his opponent\’s compromised condition. The match became a one-sided affair, with Breakker easily dominating the already-injured Zayn. Multiple devastating spears later, Breakker secured a decisive victory in what effectively became a squash match.
Paul Heyman Delivers the Final Verdict
The severity of Zayn\’s condition became clear later in the evening when Paul Heyman addressed the situation. In a gloating statement that sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe, Heyman confirmed that Sami Zayn was now out of WWE indefinitely due to his injuries sustained from the attack.
\”Sami Zayn was now out of WWE indefinitely due to his injuries\” – Paul Heyman
This announcement effectively writes Zayn off television for the foreseeable future, leaving fans wondering when they\’ll see the beloved superstar return to action.
The Escalating Kross-Zayn Feud
The attack represents the latest chapter in an intensely personal rivalry between Kross and Zayn. Despite Zayn\’s recent victory over Kross at Night of Champions, where he broke a 210-day losing streak, Kross has continued his relentless psychological campaign against the former champion.
During a post-attack interview in the upper deck of the arena, Kross made his intentions crystal clear. \”Every single week that Zayn comes out here, Kross is going to blast his guts with a steel rod,\” he declared to a surprisingly supportive crowd that chanted \”We Want Kross\” throughout his appearance.
Kross\’s message to Zayn was unmistakable: acknowledge that Kross was right about his character, or face continued punishment. \”Until you do that, this will continue,\” Kross warned, positioning himself as \”the devil they know\” while calling Zayn \”the devil they don\’t know.\”
Implications for WWE Programming
Zayn\’s indefinite absence creates significant ripple effects across WWE\’s programming. The popular superstar had been involved in multiple ongoing storylines, including his conflicts with Seth Rollins\’ faction consisting of Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed.
Karrion Kross\’s stock continues to rise following this attack, with the former NXT Champion receiving unexpectedly positive crowd reactions despite his heel tactics. The fan support suggests WWE may be positioning Kross for a significant push, especially given his renewed contract status and the company\’s apparent confidence in his ability to connect with audiences.
For Zayn, this forced hiatus could provide creative opportunities for character development and a potential reinvention upon his eventual return. Commentary teams have noted that Zayn may need to \”save himself from himself\” and reassess his approach to competition.
What\’s Next?
With Zayn out of the picture indefinitely, attention turns to how WWE will fill the void left by one of their most reliable performers. Bron Breakker\’s dominant victory positions him strongly within Seth Rollins\’ faction, while Kross appears poised for bigger opportunities given his current momentum with fans.
The wrestling world will be watching for any signs of Zayn\’s return timeline, though WWE\’s use of the word \”indefinitely\” suggests this absence could extend for several weeks or potentially months.
As the dust settles from this shocking turn of events, one thing remains certain: when Sami Zayn does return to WWE programming, the landscape may look very different from the one he left behind.
Professional wrestling fans are in for an unprecedented treat this weekend, as multiple major promotions deliver a stacked lineup of premium events across three action-packed days. From WWE\’s ambitious Atlanta triple-header to AEW\’s biggest show of the year in Texas, this weekend represents one of the most significant periods in modern wrestling history.
The weekend kicks off Thursday with ROH\’s Supercard of Honor, followed by the highly anticipated head-to-head battle between WWE\’s NXT Great American Bash and AEW\’s All In: Texas on Saturday. WWE closes out the weekend with their groundbreaking all-women\’s Evolution event on Sunday.
Complete Event Schedule
Friday, July 11, 2025
ROH Supercard of Honor – 8:00 PM ET (Esports Stadium Arlington, TX)
Saturday, July 12, 2025
WWE NXT Great American Bash – 3:00 PM ET (Center Stage Theater, Atlanta, GA)
AEW All In: Texas – 3:00 PM ET (Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX)
WWE Saturday Night\’s Main Event – 8:00 PM ET (State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA)
Sunday, July 13, 2025
WWE Evolution – 8:00 PM ET (State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA)
Here\’s everything you need to know about each major event happening this historic wrestling weekend.
ROH Supercard of Honor 2025
Date: Friday, July 11, 2025 Location: Esports Stadium Arlington, Arlington, Texas Streaming: Honor Club Start Time: 8:00 PM ET
Ring of Honor kicks off the weekend festivities with their biggest annual event, marking the 18th edition of Supercard of Honor. Originally scheduled for Atlantic City during WrestleMania weekend, the event was moved to align with AEW\’s All In weekend, creating a perfect storm of wrestling entertainment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Key Championship Matches
The ROH World Championship takes center stage as Bandido defends against the dangerous Konosuke Takeshita. This match promises to showcase the international flavor that has become ROH\’s calling card, with Mexico\’s Bandido facing off against Japan\’s Takeshita in what should be a hard-hitting affair.
The women\’s division features a highly anticipated clash between ROH Women\’s World Champion Athena and former WWE star Thunder Rosa. This represents one of Rosa\’s biggest matches since joining the ROH roster and could serve as a springboard for future storylines.
Tag team action highlights the Sons of Texas (Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara) defending their ROH World Tag Team Championships against The Infantry (Capt. Shawn Dean and Carlie Bravo), who earned their shot by defeating Top Flight in a number one contender\’s match.
Tournament Spotlight
A major tournament continues at the event as ROH crowns the inaugural ROH Women\’s Pure Championship winner. This tournament has been building for months and represents the company\’s commitment to expanding their women\’s division with prestigious titles.
WWE NXT Great American Bash 2025
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Location: Center Stage Theater, Atlanta, Georgia Streaming: Peacock (US), Netflix (International) Start Time: 3:00 PM ET
WWE\’s developmental brand returns to the historic Center Stage Theater – the former home of WCW Saturday Night – for an afternoon of high-stakes action. This marks the 13th Great American Bash under the WWE banner and notably airs directly opposite AEW\’s All In event.
Championship Showdowns
The NXT Championship headlines the card as Oba Femi faces his toughest challenge yet against Yoshiki Inamura. The Japanese challenger earned his shot by defeating Jasper Troy in a hard-fought number one contender\’s match, setting up this international clash for NXT\’s top prize.
Women\’s championship action features NXT Women\’s North American Champion Sol Ruca defending against Izzi Dame of The Culling. Dame earned this opportunity after pinning Ruca in a recent tag team match, thanks to an inadvertent spear from Ruca\’s partner Zaria.
Cross-Promotional Elements
One of the most intriguing segments involves the contract signing for the TNA World Championship match at TNA\’s Slammiversary. Current champion Trick Williams will face both Joe Hendry and Mike Santana in a three-way match, representing the continued partnership between WWE and TNA Wrestling.
The event also features a tag team match between Jordynne Grace and Jacy Jayne against Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Jacy Jayne), marking Grace\’s televised WWE debut ahead of her championship opportunity at Evolution.
AEW All In: Texas 2025
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Location: Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas Pay-Per-View: $49.99 (Traditional PPV, Amazon Prime, Triller.TV) Start Time: 3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT
AEW\’s flagship annual event makes history as the first professional wrestling show held at Globe Life Field and the first All In event on American soil. The company has pulled out all the stops for this Texas-sized spectacle, creating what many consider their most stacked card of the year.
Main Event Championship Drama
The AEW World Championship takes center stage in a Texas Death Match between champion Jon Moxley and \”Hangman\” Adam Page. Page earned this opportunity by winning the men\’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament, setting up a redemption story as he attempts to reclaim the title he once held. The stipulation adds an extra layer of intensity to this already personal rivalry.
Women\’s Championship Excellence
The women\’s division features a dream match between AEW Women\’s World Champion \”Timeless\” Toni Storm and current TBS Champion Mercedes Moné. Moné earned her shot by winning the women\’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament and brings an undefeated streak since joining AEW into this championship clash.
Historic Championship Unification
Perhaps the most anticipated match on the card sees the return of one of wrestling\’s greatest rivalries. Kenny Omega puts his AEW International Championship on the line against Kazuchika Okada\’s AEW Continental Championship in a winner-take-all unification match. The victor will be crowned the inaugural AEW Unified Champion, adding another chapter to these legends\’ storied history.
Tag Team Spectacle
The Young Bucks defend their Executive Vice President status against the team of Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay. If Strickland and Ospreay lose, they cannot challenge for the AEW World Championship for one full year, adding massive stakes to this grudge match.
Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin, known as The Hurt Syndicate, challenge for the AEW Tag Team Championships against the defending champions Kevin Knight and Mike Bailey in what promises to be a hard-hitting affair.
Casino Gauntlet Opportunities
Two Casino Gauntlet matches round out the card, with the winners earning future world championship opportunities. Mark Briscoe and MJF have earned the first two spots in the men\’s gauntlet, while Kris Statlander secured the number one position in the women\’s version.
WWE Saturday Night\’s Main Event
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025 Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia Network: NBC (Primetime Special) Start Time: 8:00 PM ET
The legendary Saturday Night\’s Main Event brand returns to NBC primetime as part of WWE\’s Atlanta takeover weekend. This marks another chapter in the show\’s storied history and serves as the perfect bridge between the afternoon\’s NXT event and Sunday\’s Evolution spectacle.
Goldberg\’s Final Chapter
The main event features WWE Hall of Famer Bill Goldberg in what has been announced as his retirement match. The WCW legend challenges World Heavyweight Champion Gunther in his hometown of Atlanta, where WCW once ruled supreme. This emotional farewell takes place in the city where Goldberg first rose to prominence.
Additional Attractions
While the full card hasn\’t been revealed, expect WWE\’s biggest stars to deliver memorable moments on network television. The primetime spotlight ensures maximum exposure for WWE\’s premium talent and storylines.
WWE Evolution 2025
Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025 Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia Streaming: Peacock (US), Netflix (International) Start Time: 8:00 PM ET
WWE\’s groundbreaking all-women\’s premium live event returns for the first time since 2018, capping off an incredible weekend of wrestling action. Evolution represents WWE\’s commitment to showcasing their incredible women\’s roster on the biggest stage possible.
Championship Opportunities
The event will feature championship matches across multiple divisions, with Jordynne Grace earning a shot at the women\’s championship after her impressive victory in a number one contender\’s match. Grace\’s journey from TNA Wrestling to this championship opportunity represents the continued collaboration between promotions.
Historic Significance
Evolution\’s return after seven years highlights how far women\’s wrestling has come in WWE. The original 2018 event broke new ground, and this 2025 version promises to showcase the incredible depth and talent of today\’s women\’s division.
A Historic Weekend for Professional Wrestling
This weekend represents more than just individual events – it\’s a showcase of professional wrestling\’s current golden age. The direct competition between WWE and AEW on Saturday afternoon hearkens back to the Monday Night Wars, while the cross-promotional elements with TNA Wrestling show how the industry has evolved to embrace collaboration.
For wrestling fans, this weekend offers something for everyone: hardcore technical wrestling, sports entertainment spectacle, emotional storytelling, and historic moments. Whether you\’re team WWE, AEW, ROH, or TNA, this weekend proves that professional wrestling is thriving in 2025.
The stage is set for one of the most memorable weekends in wrestling history. From Thursday\’s ROH action through Sunday\’s Evolution finale, this four-day stretch will likely be remembered as a turning point in the industry\’s ongoing evolution.
Tonight\’s WWE NXT serves as the crucial go-home show for this Saturday\’s Great American Bash 2025, and the stakes couldn\’t be higher.
Championship gold is on the line and the July 8 episode from the WWE Performance Center promises to deliver the final momentum shifts before the weekend\’s premium live event.
Confirmed Matches & Segments
NXT Tag Team Championship Match
Hank & Tank (c) vs. The Culling (Shawn Spears & Niko Vance)
Champions Hank Walker and Tank Ledger have held the titles for over 70 days
The Culling brings a brutal, unorthodox style that could end the champions\’ reign
A title change would send shockwaves through the tag division heading into Great American Bash
Gauntlet Match – North American Title Contention
Ricky Saints vs. The Vanity Project (Jackson Drake, Brad Baylor, and Ricky Smokes)
Winner earns another shot at NXT North American Champion Ethan Page
Saints seeking redemption after losing the title to \”All Ego\” Page
Must overcome three opponents to secure his championship opportunity
Tag Team Clash
Joe Hendry & Mike Santana vs. High Ryze (Tyriek Igwe & Tyson DuPont)
TNA stars continue their NXT integration after Santana helped Hendry defeat Wes Lee last week
Hendry building momentum toward an eventual confrontation with TNA World Champion Trick Williams
High Ryze looking to bounce back and assert dominance
Contract Freedom Match
Tavion Heights vs. Charlie Dempsey
Stipulation: If Heights wins, he can leave the No Quarter Catch Crew
Heights\’ freedom from the NQCC hangs in the balance
Dempsey must win to keep his stablemate under contract
Final Thoughts
With just days remaining before Great American Bash 2025, tonight\’s NXT episode could reshape multiple divisions and storylines. The tag team championships face their most serious threat in months, while Ricky Saints battles for another crack at singles gold.
The TNA involvement continues to gain steam, and personal freedom is literally on the line in the Heights-Dempsey clash.
Expect the kind of chaos that only a go-home show can deliver as NXT builds the final bridge to Saturday\’s premium live event.
WWE Evolution returns this weekend with updated matches after the July 7th episode of Monday Night RAW. Nikki Bella will participate in the Battle Royal to potentially earn a title shot at WWE Clash in Paris.
WWE Hall of Famer NIKKI BELLA will be in the WWE Evolution Battle Royal this Sunday!
The Kabuki Warriors, reformed by Kairi Sane\’s victory over Roxanne Perez, are set to join the Fatal 4-Way for the Women\’s Tag Team Championship.
The confirmed matches include Becky Lynch defending her Women\’s Intercontinental Championship in a Triple Threat match and Tiffany Stratton facing Trish Stratus for the Women\’s Championship.
Jade Cargill and Naomi will meet in a No Holds Barred match.
Other match participants include Ivy Nile and the newly formed team of Asuka and Kairi Sane.
Bray Wyatt’s presence remains a part of WWE programming to this day. In a heartfelt revelation on The Nikki & Brie Show, Alexa Bliss shared how she carries a piece of Bray Wyatt with her, literally. Months after the passing of the beloved WWE star, Bliss has incorporated a patch of Wyatt’s gear into her ring attire.
Quote “That’s one of the things I try to always keep a part of it with me. I actually have a piece of his gear on my skirt. My skirt has a patch of his gear. And then we all have—I’ll grab it, one second—we all have these bracelets with his gear on it. So this is the gear that’s also on my skirt,” Bliss explained, showcasing the tangible memories she cherishes.
This gesture goes beyond mere tribute; it\’s a personal reminder of the profound impact Wyatt, whose real name was Windham Rotunda, had on her career and wrestling approach.
Quote Bliss continued, “It’s… it’s how do we… how do we, you know, respect Windham’s vision and keep his memory alive without, you know, making it a tribute—making it more of like this is Alexa now, and this is part of her past that’s always going to be with her.”
Wyatt’s legacy still resonates deeply with fans, coming up on two years since his untimely passing.
Tony Khan, president of AEW, remains hopeful about Jim Ross\’s appearance at the much-anticipated All In 2025 event in Texas, despite Ross\’s recent battle with colon cancer.
Khan expressed this optimism to TMZ Sports, noting, \”It would be amazing. I don\’t want to put too much on Jim\’s plate, but it certainly would be amazing and I would love it and I hope that it\’s possible.\”
Ross, considered by many to be the greatest wrestling commentator of all time,\” has had to scale back his commentary duties in recent years due to health issues.
JR was part of AEW from the ground floor, and his potential involvement in All In 2025 would be a true symbol of his resilience.
Ric Flair Shows Fighting Spirit with Gym Return After Skin Cancer Battle
WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair is proving his legendary toughness extends beyond the wrestling ring, sharing a workout video that has fans celebrating his recovery progress from skin cancer treatment.
The Nature Boy posted footage of himself doing cardio at the gym on Twitter, accompanied by his trademark enthusiasm and a message that perfectly captures his resilience.
\”Back In Business! A Little Blood Can\’t Hold Me Back! I\’ve Been Bleeding My Whole Life! WOOOOO!\” – Ric Flair
Back In Business! A Little Blood Can’t Hold Me Back! I’ve Been Bleeding My Whole Life! WOOOOO! pic.twitter.com/BE19syBldN
The post comes as welcome news for fans concerned about Flair\’s health journey. The 16-time world champion has been open about his skin cancer battle, recently revealing he\’s undergoing treatment and will require surgery. His health issues forced him to cancel a fan event last month, leading to increased worry among the wrestling community.
True to form, Flair\’s approach reflects the same toughness that made him a wrestling icon. His reference to \”bleeding his whole life\” connects his current struggles to decades of in-ring warfare, showing fans that the \”Dirtiest Player in the Game\” remains unbroken as he continues his treatment journey.
WWE is bringing the excitement of NXT directly to Philadelphia with a special edition broadcast scheduled for Tuesday, August 19 at The Met Philadelphia. This marks a significant milestone for WWE\’s developmental brand as it continues to expand its presence under the new partnership with The CW network.
The live broadcast represents more than just another NXT event – it symbolizes the brand\’s evolution since transitioning to broadcast television under a five-year agreement with The CW that was announced in 2023. This deal has positioned NXT alongside other major sports programming on the network, giving the brand unprecedented mainstream exposure.
Fans eager to witness this historic broadcast in person will have their chance when tickets go on sale Wednesday, July 9. Those looking to secure their seats early can take advantage of a special presale opportunity on Monday, July 8, using the exclusive code \”NXTLIVE.\”
The Met Philadelphia provides an ideal venue for this special edition of NXT, offering an intimate setting that has become synonymous with the brand\’s unique atmosphere. The venue\’s capacity allows for the close-quarters energy that NXT is known for, while still accommodating the production requirements of a live television broadcast.
Philadelphia\’s rich wrestling history makes it a natural choice for this special broadcast. The city has long been a hotbed for professional wrestling, with passionate fans who always add a unique backdrop to the action in the ring.
AEW powerhouse Bobby Lashley has thrown his name into the ring as a potential opponent for celebrity boxer Jake Paul, expressing genuine interest in a crossover fight during a recent interview with WFAA. The wrestling and MMA veteran didn\’t hold back his enthusiasm for the opportunity, despite acknowledging some reservations about the matchup.
\”If I had an opportunity to box him, 100% I\’d do it tomorrow. You know, I stay in good shape, let\’s go hit some mitts, let\’s do some sparring, let\’s get ready for it, I\’d be ready, I\’d sign a contract,\” Lashley stated during the interview.
Lashley\’s interest stems from his competitive nature and genuine respect for what Paul has accomplished in the boxing world. The AEW star, who joined the promotion in September 2024, praised Paul\’s impact on the sport and his ability to elevate the profiles of fighters appearing on his cards.
\”Jake is doing some big things in the fight world. He\’s helping out boxing tremendously because he\’s bringing a lot of eyes to it, and the fighters that are fighting on his card are getting paid really well,\” Lashley explained.
However, Lashley demonstrated strategic thinking about the potential matchup, suggesting that Paul might benefit more from facing established boxers to further legitimize his boxing career. Despite this assessment, the former WWE Champion\’s competitive drive remains undeterred.
\”I don\’t know if I\’m the right matchup for him. I think what he needs is some more like seasoned boxers to fight because he\’s good, yeah, he\’s actually good, so if he\’s good, he needs to keep fighting boxers that can legitimize him more,\” Lashley noted.
The potential bout would represent another high-profile crossover opportunity for Paul, who has built his boxing career by facing opponents from various combat sports backgrounds. For Lashley, it would mark a return to combat sports outside of professional wrestling, drawing on his extensive MMA experience.
\”I\’m the kind of guy that I love competition, so I\’d love to be able to fight him and see what he\’s all about, see how good he is,\” Lashley added, emphasizing his motivation for the potential fight.
Lashley\’s openness to the fight reflects the growing trend of crossover matches in combat sports, where athletes from different disciplines test themselves against one another. His wrestling pedigree, combined with his MMA background, would certainly bring a different dynamic to any potential matchup with Paul.
While no official discussions have been reported, Lashley\’s public interest and immediate availability could make this an intriguing option for Paul\’s future fight calendar. The combination of Lashley\’s legitimate combat sports credentials and Paul\’s promotional machine would likely generate significant interest from both wrestling and boxing audiences.
As AEW continues to build its roster with high-profile signings like Lashley, the crossover potential between wrestling and other combat sports continues to create compelling storylines and opportunities for athletes to expand their competitive horizons.
WWE Hall of Famer Alundra Blayze has thrown her hat into the ring for a potential return at WWE Evolution, the upcoming premium live event scheduled for July 13 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The former Women\’s Champion took to Twitter to express her enthusiasm for participating in a Battle Royal at the historic women\’s wrestling showcase.
\”THIS WAS FUN!! Looking forward to #WWEEvolution #BattleRoyal. It would be great again! I wish?\” – Alundra Blayze (@Madusa_rocks)
— Madusa/AlundraBlayze (@Madusa_rocks) July 6, 2025
The tweet from the wrestling legend has sparked excitement among fans who remember her groundbreaking contributions to women\’s wrestling during the 1990s. Blayze, who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015, remains one of the most respected figures in women\’s professional wrestling history.
WWE Evolution promises to be a landmark event for women\’s wrestling, with the confirmed Women\’s Championship match between Trish Stratus and Tiffany Stratton already generating significant buzz. The addition of veteran competitors like Blayze would add another layer of star power and nostalgia to the card.
Blayze isn\’t the only veteran showing interest in the event. Michelle McCool, another former Women\’s Champion, has also expressed desire to participate, though she has not yet received an official offer from WWE. The interest from multiple Hall of Fame-caliber performers suggests WWE Evolution could become a true celebration of women\’s wrestling across different generations.
The potential return of Alundra Blayze would be particularly meaningful given her pivotal role in elevating women\’s wrestling during its formative years. Her legendary feuds with competitors like Bull Nakano helped establish the foundation for the women\’s division that exists today, making her presence at Evolution both symbolic and significant.
While WWE has not officially responded to Blayze\’s public pitch, the company has historically been receptive to incorporating veteran talent into special events, particularly those celebrating milestone moments in wrestling history. WWE Evolution certainly qualifies as such an occasion.
As July 13 approaches, fans will be watching to see if WWE takes advantage of the opportunity to feature some of women\’s wrestling\’s most influential figures alongside today\’s rising stars. For Alundra Blayze, the chance to step back into the ring at WWE Evolution would represent a fitting continuation of her lasting impact on the industry.
Former WWE champion Nic Nemeth has weighed in on AEW\’s tag team division, offering his perspective on the current championship picture during a recent appearance on Busted Open Radio. The wrestling veteran specifically highlighted the dynamic between dominant champions The Hurt Syndicate and rising challengers Jet Speed, suggesting that AEW should pay close attention to crowd reactions when developing storylines.
The Hurt Syndicate, featuring powerhouses Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin, have established themselves as a formidable force in AEW\’s tag team division. Their combination of experience and raw power has made them seemingly unstoppable champions, creating a challenging landscape for potential challengers.
Enter Jet Speed – the high-flying duo of Mike Bailey and Kevin Knight who represent everything The Hurt Syndicate is not. Where the champions rely on dominance and intimidation, Jet Speed brings speed, agility, and an underdog spirit that has begun resonating with AEW audiences.
\”You gotta listen to the crowd, that\’s who decides if it was good or bad that night or the next week they tune in,\” Nemeth explained during the radio appearance.
Nemeth\’s analysis goes deeper than simple David versus Goliath storytelling. He acknowledges the tactical challenge facing Jet Speed while simultaneously seeing opportunity in their unconventional approach.
Bailey recently revealed on YouTube that their strategy involves wearing down the champions through persistence and unpredictability – a game plan that Nemeth finds compelling.
\”They need something different because they are going to get murdered. But oh? They\’re unkillable? Okay! So, they\’re gonna get their ass kicked but maybe, just maybe, if they hit it right together and they get rocking and rolling and with their speed they can steal a roll up and steal the titles and get out of there? Alright! I\’m behind those guys,\” Nemeth stated.
The endorsement from Nemeth carries weight given his extensive experience in both WWE and his current success in other promotions. His perspective highlights how effective storytelling in professional wrestling often comes from genuine crowd investment rather than predetermined booking decisions.
For AEW\’s tag team division, this rivalry represents more than just championship competition. It\’s a test of whether the promotion can successfully balance dominant heel champions with credible underdog challengers, creating the kind of organic crowd engagement that Nemeth believes should guide storyline development.
Whether Jet Speed can translate their speed advantage and crowd support into championship gold remains to be seen, but they have at least one former world champion in their corner believing it\’s possible.
The ongoing rivalry between Grayson Waller and Austin Theory has taken a comedic turn, with Waller recently posting a TikTok video that directly mocks Theory\’s motivational speaking style. The Australian superstar\’s playful jab comes at a time when WWE fans are increasingly anticipating Theory\’s long-rumored transition from heel to babyface.
\”You can do anything if you try. If you work hard you can achieve your dreams!\” – Grayson Waller mocking Austin Theory on TikTok
In the TikTok video, Waller mimics Theory\’s earnest delivery style before breaking character with laughter. He continues his mockery by adding, \”And what I\’ve worked out is that these people think they\’re doing the right thing…\”
What makes this social media interaction particularly intriguing is the underlying narrative tension it represents. Austin Theory has been receiving increasingly positive fan reactions in recent months, yet WWE continues to position him as a heel character. This disconnect between fan sentiment and character positioning has fueled speculation about an imminent babyface turn.
Social Media as Storyline Extension
Waller\’s comedic approach allows him to maintain his heel persona while engaging directly with fans in a format that feels authentic and spontaneous.
This type of cross-platform storytelling has become increasingly important in WWE\’s content strategy, allowing wrestlers to develop their characters and rivalries in real-time while building audience engagement between weekly shows.
Looking Forward
The fan support Theory has been receiving suggests that WWE may be building toward a natural character shift, with Waller serving as the perfect foil to help facilitate that transition. His willingness to mock Theory\’s genuine motivational content creates clear villain dynamics that could help cement Theory\’s eventual face turn.
As this rivalry continues to develop both on television and social media, fans will be watching closely for signs of Theory\’s character evolution. Waller\’s latest TikTok mockery may be just the beginning of a storyline that could reshape both wrestlers\’ positions within WWE\’s roster hierarchy.
Tonight’s WWE Raw broadcasts live from the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, beginning at 8 PM ET exclusively on Netflix. This episode serves as the final build before Evolution 2 and Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Tonight\’s Match Card
Sami Zayn vs. Bron Breakker
Zayn seeks to rebound from his pinfall loss to Breakker in last week\’s tag team match. The singles encounter gives Zayn an opportunity to even the score against the former NXT Champion in what should be a competitive showcase.
Jey Uso vs. Bronson Reed
This match stems from Uso\’s interference last week when he prevented Reed from attacking Zayn and Penta after their match. Reed now gets his chance to address Uso\’s involvement directly in the ring.
Seth Rollins vs. Penta
Rollins faces Penta in a first-time singles meeting. Penta has recently positioned himself in opposition to Rollins\’ group, setting up this cross-promotional encounter between the former World Champion and the lucha libre veteran.
Roxanne Perez vs. Kairi Sane
Women\’s Tag Team Champion Perez confronts Sane following the injury Sane caused to Liv Morgan, which ultimately created the opening for Perez\’s championship opportunity. This represents Perez\’s first significant singles match since capturing the tag titles.
Scheduled Segments
Becky Lynch Championship Promo
Women\’s Intercontinental Champion Lynch will address her upcoming triple-threat title defense against Bayley and Lyra Valkyria at Evolution 2. This marks Lynch\’s final public comments before defending her championship.
Gunther-Goldberg Contract Signing
World Heavyweight Champion Gunther and Goldberg will complete the formalities for their title match at Saturday Night\’s Main Event. Both men will be present for the final preparations before their championship encounter.
Broadcast Information
United States: 8 PM ET on Netflix
International: Available on Netflix in participating regions
Key Storylines
Tonight’s show focuses on resolving several feuds ahead of the weekend’s events. The women’s division receives particular attention with both Lynch’s title defense preparation and Perez’s singles showcase. The men’s championship picture advances with the Gunther-Goldberg segment, while several mid-card programs reach resolution points.
The episode is expected to establish final match stipulations and conclude recent storylines before transitioning focus to Evolution 2 and Saturday Night’s Main Event programming.