SEScoops

Author: Mike Reichlin

  • WWE To Run Shorter PLE\’s, Update on Unreal Netflix Series

    On May 13, 2025, TKO Group Holdings President and COO Mark Shapiro discussed WWE’s media strategy during the J.P. Morgan Global Technology, Media and Communications Conference, offering insights into the company\’s evolving direction.

    Short and Sweet PLE\’s

    Shapiro confirmed WWE’s intent to maintain shorter, high-impact Premium Live Events (PLEs). The strategy reflects WWE’s response to changing viewer habits, prioritizing engagement over event length. This strategy has already been implemented, as we\’ve seen with WWE running two-night editions of WrestleMania and soon Summerslam, instead of single night marathon shows. WWE\’s events that have clocked in under 3 hours have been generally well-received.

    WWE: Unreal

    He also addressed the upcoming Netflix docuseries WWE: Unreal, noting concerns about the potential risks of overexposing backstage operations. Shapiro said he had cautioned WWE about revealing too much, stressing the importance of preserving the brand’s mystique and entertainment value.

    These remarks were part of Shapiro’s broader participation in the high-profile conference, where he outlined WWE’s positioning within the TKO portfolio alongside UFC and PBR. WWE continues to expand its media footprint through key partnerships, including a forthcoming move to Netflix and ongoing streaming negotiations with Peacock.

    Shapiro’s comments underscore WWE’s focus on balancing fan engagement with brand protection as it navigates an increasingly competitive media environment.

  • WWE to Receive Record $7.1M Site Fee for SummerSlam 2025 at MetLife Stadium

    WWE is set to receive $7,125,250 in public funding from the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) to support the first-ever two-night SummerSlam, scheduled for August 2–3, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The figure represents the largest known site fee ever awarded for a WWE event in the United States, according to reporting from Wrestlenomics\’ Brandon Thurston.

    The funding, drawn from the federal Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund under the American Rescue Plan Act, is being allocated as an incentive to support tourism and economic development through major entertainment events.

    The NJSEA resolution outlines the fee as a strategic investment in New Jersey’s hospitality and events sector.

    An economic impact study commissioned by WWE and conducted by Applied Analysis estimates the event will generate $80.7 million in total economic impact for the region, including $32.4 million in salaries and wages.

    NJSEA spokesperson Brian Aberback said the funds aim to offset the incentive fee based on projected benefits, citing increased global visibility and boosts to local businesses like hotels and restaurants.

    By comparison, other known WWE site fees include $5 million from Las Vegas for WrestleMania 41 and $500,000 from Tampa-St. Petersburg for Royal Rumble 2024.

    The NJSEA also provided $5 million earlier this year to support UFC 302, a TKO Group Holdings event held at the Prudential Center in Newark.

    Wrestlenomics Patreon

  • Booker T Urges Young Stars to \’Stay Above the Fray\’ After Ricochet and Je\’von Evans Social Media Clash

    WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has offered his perspective on the recent social media feud between Ricochet and NXT star Je\’von \”Young OG\” Evans, suggesting that both talents could have handled the situation differently.

    Speaking on his \”Hall of Fame\” podcast with co-host Brad Gilmore, Booker addressed the online exchange that began when someone commented that Evans was one of the best up-and-coming high-flyers in wrestling, leading to Ricochet responding about his own status in the business.

    \”I think Ricochet missed the point as far as what the question was more than anything,\” Booker said. \”I just think that\’s where we are in the business, where we got to try to bring somebody down opposed to trying to lift somebody up.\”

    Booker\’s Advice for Veterans

    The two-time WWE Hall of Famer expressed disappointment that Ricochet, who has been praised for innovating the aerial style in modern wrestling, didn\’t take the opportunity to support a younger talent making his way up.

    \”Because for me, if I see that young dude, Javon Evans, and what he\’s doing, I don\’t care. I don\’t care who I am. I\’m going to give him props because he\’s freaking so good,\” Booker emphasized.

    \”To see a young brother coming up and to not push him to the next level, especially after what you\’ve brought to the table, speaking of Ricochet, how he\’s innovated the game from his aerial assault prowess and whatnot—you supposed to be pushing for that guy no matter what company he\’s in.\”

    Escalating Tensions

    The exchange between the two wrestlers escalated when Evans responded to Ricochet with: \”I bet yo brown egg head ass would squash me if Tony told you to. Much love OG,\” which Booker\’s co-host Brad Gilmore noted was at least somewhat respectful while still maintaining the competitive banter.

    However, the situation turned more contentious when Evans made a personal comment about Ricochet\’s current position in AEW, stating: \”Now you\’re wrestling in front of 2,000 people every week for a crackhead,\” which both Booker and Gilmore agreed crossed a line.

    Booker acknowledged the generational differences in how social media is used, noting that Evans, who is only 20 years old, has a different approach to online interaction.

    \”You got to understand that Ricochet is dealing with a young guy who\’s still a kid. Still a kid, man, who does this social media totally different than you and I,\” Booker explained. \”He grew up with an iPad in his hand when he came out the womb. The way Javon Evans talks and the way Ricochet talks is two totally different worlds.\”

    Learning Opportunity for Young Talent

    While offering some understanding toward Evans\’ youth, Booker still offered advice to the NXT star:

    \”That\’s where Je\’von Evans is going to have to learn too, to leave that kind of mess in the gutter. Don\’t go down to somebody else\’s level. If you do go down to somebody else\’s level, just go down to bring them up to your level.\”

    Booker concluded with some wisdom for Evans, who has been featured prominently in NXT, including main eventing Stand & Deliver:

    \”Especially when you\’re shining, man. Like you\’re doing so great. You\’re main eventing Stand and Deliver and you\’re doing all these huge things. Just fall back on people who trying to bring you down.\”

    The WWE Hall of Famer\’s comments reflect his consistent approach to mentoring younger talent, focusing on rising above negativity and building a positive reputation in the industry.

  • TNA Champions Set for Historic Triplemanía Regia Featuring AAA and WWE Talent

    Four of TNA Wrestling’s top champions are officially set to compete at Triplemanía Regia, a marquee event from Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide that will feature talent from AAA, TNA, and WWE.

    Set for Sunday, June 15, at 6 p.m. local time inside Arena Monterrey in Mexico, Triplemanía Regia will host TNA World Champion Joe Hendry, X Division Champion Moose, along with reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions, Nic and Ryan Nemeth. The news was first reported by Sports Illustrated.

    AAA CEO Dorian Joaquín Roldán Peña emphasized the significance of this international collaboration.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome these four incredible TNA stars to AAA,” Roldán Peña said.

    “This collaboration represents the best of both worlds – the passion and tradition of Lucha Libre, and the global momentum of TNA.”

    TNA Wrestling President Carlos Silva echoed the sentiment, calling the event a “milestone moment” in professional wrestling, highlighting its unique inclusion of stars from AAA, WWE, and TNA under one roof.

    Triplemanía Regia continues AAA’s tradition of high-profile, cross-promotional events, and this year\’s edition promises a historic night of competition and spectacle.

    For more information, visit TNA\’s official website.

  • Dominik Mysterio Humbled by John Cena\’s Endorsement

    Dominik Mysterio may portray wrestling\’s most despised villain on television, but behind the scenes, \”Dirty Dom\” still gets starstruck when legends of the industry sing his praises.

    In a revealing interview with The Wrestling Classic, the current Intercontinental Champion opened up about his reaction to John Cena\’s recent comments on the Pat McAfee Show, where the 17-time world champion identified Mysterio as the future of WWE.

    Cena\’s Unexpected Endorsement

    \”I think that was super dope of him to do that,\” Mysterio admitted, momentarily dropping his heel persona.

    \”John doesn\’t have to do any of that stuff. John doesn\’t have to – he\’s John Cena. He\’s the biggest, if not the biggest movie star in the world, along with the biggest wrestler currently in the world.\”

    The significance of Cena\’s endorsement isn\’t lost on Mysterio, who confessed to being a lifelong fan of the \”Doctor of Thuganomics\” long before sharing the ring with him.

    \”I\’ve known that dude since I was a kid,\” Dominik revealed. \”I love the doctor of thuganomics. I played his album when I was in school. Before I jumped in the showers, I always got to listen to music or have a speaker on. I\’d play his CD. It was signed for me. I was a Cenomark, you know?\”

    From Fan to Colleague

    Mysterio\’s journey with Cena began professionally when live crowds returned after the pandemic.

    \”He was the guy that was there for me with the tag matches giving me advice as a good guy. We both were baby faces at that time. I was tagging with John Cena and Rey Mysterio against Roman and the Usos.\”

    This early mentorship evolved as Dominik\’s career progressed.

    \”The fact that Cena was able to see me from that beginning to then a couple months later when he came back – a year or two later when he came back, I was a bad guy then and I got to wrestle him in a dark match. So he\’s seen me through this whole process and what I\’ve gone through.\”

    For Dominik, having witnessed his transformation from rookie to champion makes Cena\’s words particularly meaningful.

    \”For him to say those words about me, it\’s really special,\” he said.

    Global Ambassador Status

    Beyond the support from wrestling royalty, Mysterio\’s rising status within WWE is further evidenced by his selection as one of the company\’s ambassadors for their crucial Indian market.

    Alongside Women\’s World Champion Liv Morgan, Dominik recently completed a whirlwind promotional tour in Mumbai.

    \”It was so life-changing for me, going out there and seeing India and just seeing how big and massive WWE actually is out there,\” Mysterio explained. \”The impact that we were having – just going out there and doing all this social stuff – it was honestly super surreal.\”

    Despite being in India for only two days, the pair created extensive content, participating in Bollywood-themed photoshoots, cultural activities, and media appearances.

    \”We were nonstop from 6:00 in the morning till 7:00 p.m. at night,\” Dominik recalled. \”The fact that we were the chosen ones to go out there just goes to show you the power that me and Liv have.\”

    As Mysterio continues to forge his own path separate from his famous father\’s legacy, the support from established legends like Cena provides both validation and motivation. F

  • Dominik Mysterio Clears Up the Biggest Misconception About His WWE Success

    Dominik Mysterio wants to set the record straight: his rise in WWE wasn’t a product of nepotism – it was years in the making.

    In a candid interview on the Intoxicados Podcast, the Intercontinental Champion addressed one of the biggest misconceptions about his career: that he simply inherited his place in WWE because of his legendary father, Rey Mysterio.

    “People think I just walked into WWE overnight,” Dominik explained. “But I trained for almost three years. I lived in Tampa and trained with Jay Lethal, then moved to Canada to train with Lance Storm. My first match was in 2020, but I’d been training since 2017.”

    He even documented parts of his journey.

    \”I did post my progress—like my first 619 or stuff I’d do in the ring. It wasn’t sudden…

    I’ve missed birthdays, my first wedding anniversary. My dad missed my birthdays too. But now as an adult in the business, I understand—you make sacrifices to succeed.”

    Stepping Out of His Father\’s Shadow

    The shadow of his father’s Hall of Fame legacy loomed large, but Dominik has steadily emerged as a standout in his own right.

    “Everyone was saying like, you know, I wasn’t going to be able to do it or like I was never going to be able to fill Rey’s shoes or I’d never get out of his shadow,” he said. “But it’s like – I did it in less than five years.”

    Breakout Babyface

    That breakout moment came at WrestleMania 41, when years of boos gave way to cheers.

    “That reaction… was definitely a surreal moment,” Dominik recalled. “It felt different for sure.”

    For Dominik, the journey hasn’t just been about proving others wrong – it’s been about proving he\’s a bonafide star on his own merits. Five years in, it\’s safe to say he\’s succeeding.

  • NXT Preview (5/13): Oba Femi Title Defense, Battleground Contract Signing

    Here’s the preview for tonight’s WWE NXT, broadcasting live on the CW Network at 8/7c from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida:

    NXT Champion Oba Femi vs. Charlie Dempsey

    The dominant Oba Femi puts his momentum to the test against technical specialist Charlie Dempsey of the No Quarter Catch Crew in a highly anticipated singles match.

    Wes Lee vs. Tony D’Angelo

    \”The Don of NXT\” Tony D’Angelo faces off with the high-flying Wes Lee in a clash that could have major implications for the NXT North American Title scene.

    Joe Hendry and Trick Williams contract signing for the TNA World Championship at Battleground

    With Battleground approaching, TNA World Champion Joe Hendry and NXT’s Trick Williams will make their title match official with a contract signing, promising fireworks ahead of their showdown.

    Tonight’s episode continues the build to WWE Battleground on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida.

  • Finn Bálor and Roxanne Perez Spotted Backstage Again on WWE Raw

    WWE has once again placed Finn Bálor and Roxanne Perez in the background of a backstage segment, marking the second consecutive week the two Superstars have appeared together on camera. Though no interaction has been acknowledged on commentary or in storylines, their recurring presence hints at a developing connection.

    The company has previously used similar visual cues to build anticipation for future alliances or feuds, making this pairing worth noting.

    Wrestling fans on social media have taken notice of this subtle on-screen detail, with some speculating where this could be headed. Pairing Finn Bálor and Roxanne Perez is an intriguing prospect, and could be a vehicle to help establish Perez on the main roster. We’ll be tracking this developing situation.

  • Tag Team Match Announced for WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event

    WWE has confirmed another high-profile bout for the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event special from Tampa, FL airing May 24 on NBC and Peacock.

    Seth Rollins will team with Bron Breakker to take on the duo of CM Punk and Sami Zayn in a blockbuster tag team match. This adds to the already intruiging card, which includes Logan Paul challenging Jey Uso for the World Heavyweight Championship.

    The next WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event airs live 5/24 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.

  • Hogan and Bischoff Share Vision for Real American Freestyle Wrestling: ‘This Is Pro-Pro Wrestling’

    Bringing Amateur Excellence to the Professional Stage

    In a new interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff elaborated on their ambitious plans for Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW), the new combat sports league designed to provide a professional platform for elite amateur wrestlers.

    “This is pro-pro wrestling, brother,” said Hogan. “This is the elite of the elite… somewhere in between UFC and WWE, there was a market that was really underserved.”

    The promotion, which launches August 30 in Cleveland, aims to fill the gap left for athletes who reach the top of the NCAA or Olympic ladder, only to find limited options outside of MMA or sports entertainment.

    “We didn’t want to compete with UFC or WWE,” Hogan said. “But we wanted the opportunity to be as big as them.”

    Execution and Funding in Place

    Eric Bischoff, who helped lead WCW during its heyday, emphasized their readiness to execute.

    “The reason most good ideas don’t succeed is because they’re not well-funded or can’t execute. We don’t have that issue,” Bischoff said. “We’ve got serious backing from Left Lane Capital… They’re also behind Shaun White’s snowboarding league and women’s volleyball. They believe in this.”

    The league plans monthly events and is currently in talks with two major media platforms.

    “I have a call with a major platform after this interview,” Bischoff added. “We’re confident we’ll land a streaming deal—possibly even cable.”

    Building Stars from Real Athletes

    Hogan’s role goes beyond branding. He plans to work closely with the talent and help develop the next Conor McGregor.

    “I’m boots on the ground,” he said. “These amateur wrestlers—turns out they all grew up watching me. I want to help them not become characters like Doink the Clown, but organically grow into megastars.”

    Bischoff echoed that storytelling will be critical to engaging broader audiences.

    “We’re going to show their backstories, their failures and triumphs,” he said. “It’s not just about matches. We’re going to make people care.”

    Hulk Hogan on Booing Fans: ‘I’d Rather Be Booed Than Forgotten’

  • Hulk Hogan on Booing Fans: ‘I’d Rather Be Booed Than Forgotten’

    A Complex Legacy Acknowledged

    Hulk Hogan addressed the polarized public reception he continues to receive, speaking candidly on The Ariel Helwani Show about his relationship with the fans and media in 2025.

    “They’re still nipping at my heels,” Hogan said. “I can go out and get booed in LA… The Rock gets booed, Cena gets booed. But when I get booed, there’s a whole different reaction media-wise.”

    He sees the reaction—good or bad—as a sign of relevance.

    “For those that are on the team and riding the train to the station, that’s great. For the haters, there’s nothing I can do except keep proving by my actions that I’m still in the game.”

    Still Moving Forward

    Now 71 and recovering from numerous surgeries, Hogan says the criticism doesn’t faze him.

    “Even in the 80s, I was the guy everyone tried to knock off the top spot. I’ll trade that any day for being forgotten.”

    “I’m just like an old scarred-up seal,” he added. “Most people relate to that. They’ve made mistakes too. I’m still here, still pushing forward.”

    No Illusions About the Past

    Hogan acknowledges that some of the boos are personal, not just aimed at a character.

    “It’s all the above—character, professional, personal,” he said. “There are WWE guys who’ve had opinions. But when I go to New York or Chicago and the crowd cheers out of the rooftops, I’d like to hear their advice then.”

    He added, “I’m not hating on anybody, brother. I’m leaning into the wind.”

  • Cora Jade (Elayna Black) Returns to GCW for Summer Tour

    Former WWE NXT standout Cora Jade, returning to her pre-WWE ring name Elayna Black, has been announced for an upcoming summer tour with Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). The tour marks her return to the independent scene following her release from WWE.

    Black is set to appear at five GCW events across the United States, beginning June 20 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Additional stops include Hartford, CT (July 5), Dallas, TX (July 11), Coney Island, NY (July 19), and Rutherford, NJ (August 1).

    Her return continues a trend of recently released WWE talent quickly finding high-profile opportunities on the independent circuit. The tour will stream live on TrillerTV+.

  • Everything on the Menu with Braun Strowman Coming to USA Network in Fall 2025

    Braun Strowman will headline a new television series on USA Network this fall, marking a major post-WWE project for the recently released giant.

    Everything on the Menu with Braun Strowman is a food-driven travel series produced by WWE Studios in partnership with BrightNorth Studios.

    Show Format and Premise

    • In each episode, Strowman travels across the United States, visiting different restaurants and local eateries.
    • The show\’s signature twist: he orders every item on the menu at each stop and attempts to eat it all.

    Production Details

    • WWE Studios leads the production alongside BrightNorth Studios.
    • Executive producers include Paul \”Triple H\” Levesque, Lee Fitting, Marc Pomarico, and Ben Houser from WWE.
    • BrightNorth Studios\’ team includes Matthew J. Braley, Kevin Duncan, Morgan Hertzan, Pat Dimon, Shawn Efran, and Azadeh De Leon.

    Context and Release

    • The series was officially announced during NBCUniversal’s May 2025 Upfronts.
    • Despite his release from WWE earlier this month, Strowman remains the face of the series, which retains WWE’s production backing.
    • Everything on the Menu with Braun Strowman is scheduled to debut in fall 2025 on USA Network.

  • Priscilla Kelly (Gigi Dolin) Set for First Post-WWE Appearance

    Former WWE Superstar Gigi Dolin is set to make her first appearance since being released from the company – and she’s doing so under her pre-WWE ring name, Priscilla Kelly.

    Kelly will debut at Wrestling REVOLVER’s Cage of Horrors event on Saturday, June 14th at the Horizon Events Center in Clive, Iowa. The event will stream live on TrillerTV+.

    She joins a growing list of recently released WWE talent quickly resurfacing on the independent scene. Fellow ex-WWE stars Shotzi Blackheart and Cora Jade have also been announced for upcoming events.

    Kelly’s return marks a significant moment in her career, as fans eagerly anticipate her next chapter outside of WWE.

  • Pat McAfee Reflects After WWE Backlash: \’Don’t Be Scared to End a Chapter\’

    Following his hard-fought match against Gunther at WWE Backlash, Pat McAfee took to Twitter/X last night with advice for WWE fans.

    “Life’s a book… each day being a page leading to the next,” McAfee wrote. “Phases of life come and go like chapters… not every character/job/idea has to appear in every chapter.”

    McAfee continued, offering encouragement to those contemplating change:

    “Don’t be scared to end a chapter and start anew… you’re gonna have to do it eventually anyways. And always remember to check with the mirror every once in a while and make sure your book is one that makes you happy… and if it’s not, change direction… we have NO IDEA when the final page is being written… with no sequels.”

    The message ended with gratitude and McAfee’s signature charm:

    “I appreciate you all so much for everything. I’m living the dumbest book of all time… trying to figure it all aht as I go… UpToSomethingSZN.”

    Gunther ultimately defeated McAfee at WWE Backlash by choking him out with a sleeper hold. One thing he did make clear: he didn’t tap out.

    “Just to be clear,” he reminded fans, “I didn’t tap.”

  • Shotzi Blackheart Set for Wrestling Return Next Month

    Major League Wrestling (MLW) has teased the arrival of former WWE Superstar Shotzi Blackheart at their upcoming \”Summer of the Beasts\” event. The show is scheduled for June 26 at NYC\’s Melrose Ballroom.

    During MLW Azteca Lucha this past weekend from Chicago, the promotion aired a promotional vignette featuring imagery of a tank—Shotzi\’s signature entrance prop—along with text reading: \”June 26. Hearts Turn Black. The Warning SHOTZ Will Be Fired.\”

    This development comes shortly after Shotzi\’s release from WWE in the company\’s latest round of talent cuts.

    The green-haired grappler had previously assured fans they would see her again soon, and this announcement appears to confirm her next destination in professional wrestling.

    The June 26 event marks Shotzi\’s first post-WWE appearance, giving fans an opportunity to see what\’s next for the popular and distinctive performer.

    MLW\’s female roster includes Women\’s World Champion Shoko Nakajima, Miyu Yamashita, Delmi Exo and Gigi Rey.

    Shotzi Describes Her \”Mind Numbing\” Final Days with WWE

    Shotzi Opens Up on Losing Herself and Why the ‘New Ballsy Badass’ Is Unstoppable

  • Aleister Black Reveals the Best Advice He Received from The Undertaker

    WWE Superstar Aleister Black is one of wrestling\’s remaining characters that taps into dark, supernatural elements. It\’s not an easy feat to pull off in 2025, but Black has had career guidance from the greatest supernatural character of all time: The Undertaker.

    During a recent appearance on the Wrestling the Rap Game podcast, Black revealed:

    \”Taker\’s always been very cool. Gave me tons of advice. I think the biggest thing he always told me is force people to sell your character. You\’re not a regular character. You cannot have people do certain things to you… they have to react to you. They have to have a visual reaction to you. And to this day, I still try to implement it.\”

    Black shared that The Undertaker would regularly take time to speak with him about character development, noting:

    \”Every once in a while he would just take me to the side and was just talking to me about like this character stuff and it was just very very cool cuz he didn\’t have to do that but he did.\”

    Protecting His Character and Himself

    Most wrestlers are very active on social media, but Aleister Black is not among them. He\’s purposely all-but-stepped away from social media, in part because he considers himself a private person, but also because he feels it helps protect the aura of his mysterious character.

    \”It\’s also always been a little bit by design that I have slowly and gradually been okay with wanting to allow people to kind of see that side of myself. Both characteristic protection but also just human protection because I\’m a pretty private person. I\’ve always been a private person…

    The more that I kind of distance myself from that, the more I\’m okay with putting certain stuff forward because, you know, it\’s not the focal point anymore.\”

    The Golden Age of NXT

    Elsewhere in the extensive interview, he spoke about his surprising deep connection to hip-hop music despite his black metal aesthetic, his martial arts background, and what many fans consider to be the \”golden age\” of WWE\’s NXT brand.

    \”It was the perfect storm because it was a bunch of the older veterans like Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Terry Taylor, Norman Smiley, Robbie Brookside, William Regal, Scotty Tahi, all these guys that did it in their way… and they took us, a bunch of guys that were like these ravenous crazy indie dudes, and kind of blend their thoughts and styles into us and just shaped what became NXT Black and Gold. I feel that that era of NXT from 2015 to 2020 was the best pro wrestling at that time. I don\’t think there was anything better.\”

    Watch the full interview here:

  • Mercedes Mone Teasing Something Big for AEW All In Texas

    In a revealing interview with Denise Salcedo for Instinct Culture, Mercedes Mone said she\’s \”blown away\” by Timeless Toni Storm. The \”CEO\” has been wrestling for nearly 15 years, but admits she\’s never seen a woman captivate an audience like the reigning AEW Women\’s World Champion .

    \”I am blown away by her work. Before I even thought about signing with AEW, I\’ve just been watching her weeks upon weeks and I was just so captivated by her charisma, by her character, by her presence. I think she is not one of the best women, one of the best talents in the whole world.

    I\’ve never seen a woman captivate a character so just on demand like she does. She brings so much to AEW and I can\’t wait to take that all away from her.\”

    Emotional Stakes in Texas

    The prospect of winning the AEW Women\’s World Championship at All In in Texas clearly holds profound significance for Mone. When discussing what such a victory would mean to her, she momentarily broke from her confident persona:

    \”I can feel the emotions right now. I feel like I\’m about to cry. But I\’m going to save that for Texas. But really, that\’s what I\’ve been dreaming about, main eventing All In. This is our Super Bowl. This is our biggest pay-per-view of the year. And you\’re talking to the biggest star in all of professional wrestling, of all of women\’s wrestling. I put women\’s wrestling on the map.\”

    The Beyoncé of Wrestling

    True to her character, it wouldn\’t be a Mercedes Mone interview without talking up herself as well. She also sees herself as a transformative figure in women\’s wrestling, comparing herself to one of music\’s most iconic performers.

    \”To do that in Texas, where I am the Beyoncé of wrestling, I cannot wait to show everybody not only my gear, my outfit, the look, just the match alone.\”

    Despite the setback of losing one of her championships over the weekend at NJPW Resurgence, Mone\’s confidence remains unshaken.

    AEW All In: Texas will take place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

    Mercedes Mone Declares, ‘Toni Storm, Your Time is Up’ at AEW All In Texas

  • Mercedes Mone Declares, \’Toni Storm, Your Time is Up\’ at AEW All In Texas

    Two of All Elite Wrestling\’s biggest stars are on a collision course. In an exclusive interview with Denise Salcedo for Instinct Culture, an emotional Mercedes Mone didn\’t hold back following her championship loss at New Japan Resurgence. The typically confident superstar, now dubbing herself \”Rebounce Mone,\” immediately shifted focus to her AEW aspirations despite the setback.

    \”I\’m really sad. This is my first interview as Rebounce Mone because we were backstage at New Japan Resurgence after my main event. After I put this company on the map, I made this company money. And did you see what happened out there? I got screwed. I\’m pissed off.\”

    While visibly frustrated about losing her New Japan Strong Championship, Mone was quick to emphasize that she wasn\’t the one pinned in the match. Mina Shirakawa took the fall, a detail Mone seemed to find little consolation in as she mapped out her immediate plans in AEW.

    \”Now that I\’m only three belts Mone, I need to become four Belts Mone again. So, TonI Storm, your time is up.\”

    Before any potential showdown with AEW Women\’s World Champion \”Timeless\” Toni Storm, Mone faces Jamie Hayter at AEW Double or Nothing 2025 in the Owen Hart Cup tournament finals. The significance of potentially winning this honor resonates with Mone on a personal level.

    \”It would mean everything to me to honor Owen\’s legacy. The hearts are very close to me. Natalya Hart, TJ Wilson, DH Smith, the hearts. And don\’t forget Uncle Bret. Hi Bret. Love you so much. The best there is, the best there was, just like me.\”

    Texas-Sized Ambitions

    Beyond her immediate challenge, Mone revealed her ultimate goal in AEW with unwavering confidence:

    \”Double or Nothing is on my mind. I\’m ready to beat Jamie Hayter. She has been pissing me off weeks upon weeks. But really, my goal is to main event All In in Texas. That is my dream. That is my goal and that\’s what I\’m going to get to.\”

    The prospect of headlining AEW\’s biggest event of the year clearly means everything to Mone, who emotionally described what capturing the AEW Women\’s World Championship would represent to her.

    \”I can feel the emotions right now. I feel like I\’m about to cry. But I\’m going to save that for Texas.\”

    What\’s Next

    Despite the championship loss at New Japan Resurgence, Mone remains focused on her multi-promotion domination strategy. She promised viewers they\’d see immediate action on her revenge tour starting this Wednesday on AEW Dynamite.

    \”Let me regroup after losing my beautiful New Japan Strong championship. I need a massage. I need a bath. I stink. I\’m a little pent up with aggression right now, but I\’m going to relax. I\’m going to replant. I\’m going to regroup. And this Wednesday at AEW Dynamite, I\’m coming for my revenge.\”

    For Mone, the path forward is clear: defeat Jamie Hayter, win the Owen Hart Cup, then set her sights on \”Timeless\” Toni Storm and the ultimate prize of main eventing All In Texas as AEW Women\’s World Champion.

    AEW All In: Texas will take place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

  • 2 More Matches Added to NJPW Dominion 2025 on June 15 (Updated Card)

    Six matches are officially announced for NJPW Dominion 2025 on June 15 at Osaka-Jo Hall, with more potentially being added as the event approaches.

    IWGP World Heavyweight Championship
    Hirooki Goto (c) vs. Shingo Takagi

    After a controversial double pin at NJPW Resurgence in Ontario, California, Goto retained his championship against Zack Sabre Jr. Now, Shingo Takagi steps up as the next challenger to the \”Goto Revolution.\”

    IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship
    Yota Tsuji (c) vs. Gabe Kidd
    (A highly anticipated rematch after their previous classic ended in a double knockout)

    IWGP Tag Team Championship
    United Empire (Callum Newman & Great-O-Khan) (c) vs. Tomohiro Ishii & Taichi

    Dog Collar Chain Deathmatch
    David Finlay vs. EVIL

    NEVER Openweight Championship
    Konosuke Takeshita (c) vs. Boltin Oleg

    This rubber match follows their encounter at New Beginning in Osaka, where Takeshita emerged victorious. However, Oleg previously defeated Takeshita during last year\’s G1 Climax, making this a crucial deciding bout between the two powerhouses.

    Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Yuya Uemura

    Part of Tanahashi\’s retirement tour, this match has been billed as a \”Connection\” bout between the veteran \”Genius of the Sun\” and Uemura, who many consider the \”sun\” of the next generation. It could represent the passing of a torch—or Tanahashi teaching the rising \”Heat Storm\” a valuable lesson.

  • Raw Preview: CM Punk, Styles vs. Balor, SKY & Ripley vs. Perez & Giulia

    Tonight\’s WWE Raw broadcasts live on Netflix at 8/7c from the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky (Tickets). The first Raw after WWE Backlash promises fallout from a dramatic weekend as WWE looks to set the tone for the summer.

    WWE Raw Preview: May 12, 2025

    AJ Styles vs. Finn Bálor
    Two of Raw’s most decorated veterans reignite their rivalry in a match that could determine the next challenger for the Intercontinental Championship.

    IYO SKY & Rhea Ripley vs. Roxanne Perez & Giulia
    The Women’s World Champion IYO SKY gets backup from Rhea Ripley to take on the rising duo of Roxanne Perez and Giulia in a blockbuster tag team match.

    Penta vs. Chad Gable
    After being robbed of the Intercontinental Title at Backlash, Penta looks for revenge against Chad Gable (aka El Grande Americano) in a heated singles bout.

    The War Raiders (Erik & Ivar) vs. American Made (The Creed Brothers)
    Tag team supremacy is on the line as the experienced War Raiders battle the explosive Creed Brothers, with potential title implications for the winners.

    CM Punk to Address WrestleMania Fallout
    Following his shocking return and chaotic involvement last week, CM Punk will address the WWE Universe for the first time since Paul Heyman’s betrayal at WrestleMania 41. Expect fireworks as Punk sets his sights on the new power alliance of Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, and Heyman.

    Jey Uso Speaks
    The World Heavyweight Champion will address the fallout from his controversial title defense against Logan Paul at Backlash and last week’s sneak attack by Paul after Raw went off the air. With their rematch set for Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24, Uso’s response could shape the weeks ahead.

    Also advertised to appear: Gunther, Seth Rollins, Dominik Mysterio, Kofi Kingston, and Xavier Woods.

  • WWE Set for Saudi Arabian Double-Header with SmackDown and Night of Champions in June

    WWE will return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in late June for a two-night event featuring both Friday Night SmackDown and Night of Champions at Kingdom Arena.

    The General Entertainment Authority and WWE announced today that Night of Champions will take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, with Friday Night SmackDown airing live from the same venue on June 27. This marks the first time SmackDown will be held in Saudi Arabia\’s capital city.

    Friday Night SmackDown will air on USA Network in the United States, while Night of Champions will stream on Peacock. Both events will be available on Netflix for viewers in Saudi Arabia and most international markets.

    Ticket sale information and additional event details are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

  • Wrestling World Mourns Sabu

    Earlier today, news broke that wrestling legend Sabu has passed away. Here are some of the latest reactions from some of his closest friends and peers honoring the late icon:

  • Boston’s TD Garden to Host John Cena’s Final Match in December

    John Cena will retire in December 2025, concluding his legendary WWE career with a final match at Boston’s TD Garden, according to WCVB. The venue serves as a symbolic setting for the 17-time world champion, who will retire in his hometown.

    The retirement news arrives shortly after Cena retained the WWE Championship against Randy Orton at WWE Backlash. The match, which saw Cena deliver a decisive performance, further solidified his status as one of the company’s most enduring figures.

    Details on Cena’s final opponent have yet to be revealed, but the event is expected to be a major milestone in WWE’s calendar, marking the end of an era.

  • Becky Lynch and MJF Share Mutual Respect After Filming Happy Gilmore 2

    WWE star Becky Lynch recently opened up about working alongside AEW’s MJF on the set of Happy Gilmore 2 in a new interview with Variety.

    “I did [cross paths with MJF on set],” Lynch said. “You know, a very nice boy. Great chats. Of course, he knows he’d lose at [a promo battle], but we had great chats.”

    She added, “Unfortunately, it was way before this happened, but I feel like he would completely agree with everything that I’m saying about Lyra.”

    MJF responded to Lynch’s remarks on Twitter with his signature blend of sarcasm and bravado:

    “Agree with Becks fully on Lyra, she seems like a horrible person and clearly a gross poor.

    Enjoyed my time with ‘the man’ on set. A very nice girl and an upstanding citizen.

    However….. not too sure about her thoughts on a potential promo battle ? #BetterthanYou”

    The crossover between wrestling’s top stars continues to blur lines as both Lynch and MJF expand their reach into Hollywood.

    Happy Gilmore 2 is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix on July 25, 2025.