Author: Mike Reichlin

  • WWE Releases Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler & More

    WWE has released a group of superstars from both its main roster and NXT brand as of May 2, 2025.

    Among the names confirmed are Dakota Kai, Shayna Baszler, Braun Strowman, Katana Chance, Gigi Dolin, Kayden Carter and Gallus. These names were first reported by Fightful. The cuts reflect ongoing internal evaluations and strategic changes within the company.

    Cora Jade, Eddie Thorpe and Jakara Jackson are also gone, according to PWInsider. These departures affect a mix of veteran talent and rising prospects, signaling another significant shift in WWE’s talent landscape.

    The releases follow a familiar pattern of post-WrestleMania adjustments, as WWE continues to streamline its rosters across both brands.

    Reactions

    This story is still developing, with further details expected in the coming days.

  • AEW Announces Extended Philadelphia Residency at Historic 2300 Arena

    All Elite Wrestling has officially announced an unprecedented two-week residency at Philadelphia\’s legendary 2300 Arena, marking the promotion\’s debut at the historic venue formerly known as the ECW Arena.

    The residency will span from late August through mid-September 2025, featuring seven total events including three episodes of Dynamite, three Collision tapings, and Ring of Honor\’s Death Before Dishonor premium live event.

    Complete Schedule

    The full slate of events at the 2300 Arena will include:

    • Wednesday, August 27 – AEW Dynamite
    • Saturday, August 30 – AEW Collision
    • Wednesday, September 3 – AEW Dynamite
    • Friday, September 5 – ROH Death Before Dishonor
    • Saturday, September 6 – AEW Collision
    • Wednesday, September 10 – AEW Dynamite
    • Thursday, September 11 – Special Taping of AEW Collision

    Historic Venue

    This extended Philadelphia stay represents AEW\’s first-ever events at the 2300 Arena, a venue that gained legendary status as the home of Extreme Championship Wrestling throughout the 1990s. The intimate setting, which holds approximately 1,300 fans, has long been considered hallowed ground for hardcore wrestling enthusiasts.

    AEW\’s History of Venue Residencies

    The Philadelphia residency continues AEW\’s strategic approach of establishing extended stays at landmark venues. The company\’s first major residency was at Daily\’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida, which served as AEW\’s home base during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 to July 2021. The 5,500-seat amphitheater, connected to the Jacksonville Jaguars\’ stadium, hosted the majority of AEW programming during this period.

    In summer 2024, AEW established a successful residency at the Esports Stadium in Arlington, Texas, featuring multiple episodes of Collision and ROH\’s Death Before Dishonor as part of the \”Path to All In Summer Series.\” The Arlington residency included 10 live wrestling events in the intimate 2,500-capacity venue.

    The upcoming 2300 Arena residency represents AEW\’s third major extended venue partnership and first in the historic Philadelphia wrestling landmark that gained fame as ECW\’s home territory.

    The extended Philadelphia run continues AEW\’s strategy of establishing regional hubs for multiple event tapings, maximizing production efficiency while creating unique opportunities for fans to experience several shows in a single location.

    Ticket information and on-sale dates for the Philadelphia residency are expected to be announced in the near future.

  • WWE SmackDown Preview: May 2, 2025

    Tonight\’s WWE SmackDown promises exciting action as the road to Backlash 2025 continues. Here\’s what to expect:

    • Aleister Black vs. The Miz: One week after his shocking return to WWE, Aleister Black faces The Miz in his first match back in five years. Last week, Black made an impactful return by taking out The A-Lister with a Black Mass kick.
    • Randy Orton Appearance: The Viper is scheduled to appear tonight as he prepares for his Undisputed WWE Championship match against John Cena at Backlash. Their \”One Last Time\” rivalry has reached a fever pitch following last week\’s volatile face-to-face encounter.
    • Women\’s Division Action: Lyra Valkyria is preparing to defend her WWE Women\’s Intercontinental Championship against Becky Lynch at Backlash, so expect developments in this storyline tonight.
    • Backlash Build-up: With WWE Backlash just over a week away (May 10, 2025), expect more matches to be announced for the Premium Live Event, which will take place at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

    Tonight\’s show emanates live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, and airs at 8 ET/7 CT on USA Network.

  • Tony Khan Promises AEW PPV Return to New York City \’Within the Year\’

    All Elite Wrestling fans in the New York City area have reason to celebrate as a major pay-per-view event is officially headed their way. Speaking with iHeart Radio\’s Josh Martinez on Z100 New York City and 1035 Kiss FM Chicago, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the promotion\’s plans to bring a significant PPV to the Big Apple within the next twelve months.

    Official Confirmation and Timeline

    \”You better believe we\’re going to bring a big AEW pay-per-view back to New York soon and within the year,\” Khan stated definitively when pressed about the company\’s plans for the city.

    The announcement marks a strategic return to one of wrestling\’s most passionate markets, with Khan emphasizing the importance of New York\’s fanbase:

    \”I am very focused on coming back to New York with great events. There\’s a lot of great arenas and venues in the market, but also there\’s the best market of wrestling fans in the world, which is all of you.\”

    Multiple Venue Options Under Consideration

    While AEW has previously found success at Arthur Ashe Stadium with their Grand Slam event, Khan indicated that multiple venues are being considered for the upcoming pay-per-view. The promotion appears committed to exploring various options throughout the five boroughs and surrounding areas.

    \”AEW is coming back to New York with a big pay-per-view. And I also love doing the TV there, so keep an eye out for that, too,\” Khan added, suggesting additional television tapings may also be in the works.

    Historical Success in New York

    Khan\’s enthusiasm for the New York market stems from AEW\’s previous successes in the area, particularly the first Grand Slam event at Arthur Ashe Stadium in 2021. When asked about his favorite New York City memory, Khan didn\’t hesitate:

    \”That was an amazing event and it\’s my personal favorite New York memory coming and doing the first ever wrestling show at Arthur Ashe Stadium.\”

    He specifically highlighted the opening match between Kenny Omega and Bryan Danielson as the perfect way to kick off what he called his \”favorite night I\’ve ever spent in New York.\”

    What This Means for AEW\’s Future

    The commitment to bringing a major pay-per-view back to New York City aligns with AEW\’s current momentum. With the promotion experiencing what Khan describes as their \”best run of TV ever\” in 2025, this announcement signals continued expansion and investment in key markets.

    As AEW continues to grow its presence on streaming platforms like Max while maintaining its cable television footprint, the return of a major pay-per-view to New York City could mark another significant milestone in the promotion\’s evolution.

  • Carmella Talks \’Snatch\’ Platform to Support Women Through Pregnancy Loss and Motherhood

    Former WWE star Carmella has channeled her personal experiences with pregnancy loss into creating a supportive community for women facing similar challenges. Speaking on Wrestling Classic\’s Casual Conversations, she revealed the inspiration behind her new platform, Snatch.

    Born from Personal Tragedy

    \”When I had my miscarriages, I feel like I kind of was alone in that and I wanted to share my experience. And through that, I realized how much we needed to talk about these things as women. And so, that\’s why I created Snatch,\” Carmella explained.

    The platform addresses a critical gap in women\’s health discussions.

    \”Snatch is a platform for women um to kind of be educated and discuss all things related to fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood.\”

    Real Impact on Real Women

    The response to her openness has been overwhelming, with women sharing how her vulnerability has helped them through their own struggles.

    \”There was a woman here today and her she was with her son the same age as Dimmitri and she was like because you spoke up about your birth story, it made me feel so much better about mine cuz she had a really traumatic birth.\”

    Carmella shared that the impact extends beyond pregnancy and birth experiences.

    \”I feel like there are so many women that have come out of the woodwork and just said like even today, women coming up to me today saying and and men coming up to me today saying that I helped their wives to talk about my ectopic pregnancy or to talk about the miscarriages.\”

    Transforming Platform into Purpose

    This venture represents a significant shift in how Carmella uses her public platform.

    \”It\’s just really really cool to know that like I\’ve taken my platform and turned it into something different and just meeting so many people that it\’s helped.\”

    She takes particular pride in building a genuine community focused on real-life experiences rather than highlights.

    \”I feel like because I\’ve had a platform through WWE and kind of like years ago and just kind of lean more into just like showing like the highlights and the best clips of your life that now I\’m like what I\’m really leaning into is the real life aspect and I love that.\”

    Through Snatch, Carmella is proving that sometimes our greatest challenges can become our most meaningful contributions to others facing similar struggles.

  • Carmella Opens Up About WWE Contract Ending: \’I Was Shocked But Now I\’m So Happy\’

    Former WWE star Carmella has finally addressed the circumstances surrounding her contract ending with the company, clarifying misconceptions about her departure while expressing gratitude for her time in WWE. In an interview with Wrestling Classic\’s Casual Conversations, she opened up about the emotional journey.

    The Shocking Moment

    \”In the moment it was very jarring. I was shocked. I feel like it was shocked and immediately I was shocked and because I didn\’t get a lot of notice to me. That\’s what kind of was like, wow,\” Carmella explained about learning her contract wouldn\’t be renewed.

    However, she emphasized that her feelings have evolved significantly since then.

    \”But I\’m so happy. I\’m so so happy. Everything happens for a reason. I feel so blessed. Like with my time at WWE, I I mean, everyone that I\’ve seen here today, it\’s like joking around with Big Show and like I saw Ellsworth. I\’m like, this is wild.\”

    Addressing the Misconceptions

    Carmella directly addressed criticism and misconceptions that arose after her podcast comments about leaving WWE.

    \”I wasn\’t at all saying anything bad about WWE. I\’m like so grateful for my time at WWE. Eventually, I\’m going to leave WWE. Like, there\’s no way I can live like work there forever.\”

    She acknowledged feeling hurt about how things ended while maintaining perspective.

    \”For me personally, I was just a little upset and hurt, I guess, with how it ended, but it was going to end no matter what, you know? And I was just a little hurt with how it ended, that\’s all.\”

    Looking Forward

    Now several months removed from the situation, Carmella is embracing her new identity outside of wrestling.

    \”I even though I had been away for 2 years, I was still under contract. And it\’s like for the first time in 12 years, I\’m like, \’Oh, I\’m Leah. I\’m not Carmela.\’ Like, but who is Leah without wrestling?\”

    Despite this transition, she remains open to future opportunities with WWE.

    \”I will for sure hope that someday I go back, you know, whether it\’s like a oneoff or for a Rumble or something. Um, it\’s in my blood and I I love it.\”

  • Carmella Reveals Promo Performance That Changed Vince McMahon\’s Money in the Bank Plans

    Former WWE star Carmella has revealed how a single promo performance altered WWE\’s plans for the 2018 Money in the Bank briefcase, leading to her historic second win. Speaking to Wrestling Classic\’s Casual Conversations show, Carmella detailed how Vince McMahon\’s reaction to her performance changed everything.

    The Promo That Changed Everything

    \”I went out there, cut a promo. I think we opened the show and um came back through the curtain and like got standing ovation. And I remember Vince was like, \’I wish my top guys could cut a promo like that,\’\” Carmella recalled during the interview.

    The impact was immediate and significant. When asked about winning Money in the Bank for the second time, Carmella confirmed that plans had originally been different.

    \”Were you not supposed to win it again the second time? No, it was supposed to be Becky. Becky was supposed to win the second time,\” she revealed.

    How Plans Changed

    Carmella explained that the pivotal moment came on the SmackDown following the Money in the Bank pay-per-view. After delivering her promo and receiving a standing ovation backstage, she noticed immediate changes to the show\’s format.

    \”We had a segment later that night was I think the closing segment of the night. We were out there with Daniel Bryan and there were supposed to be physicality and I think Becky or Charlotte was supposed to like tag team me to the floor or I was supposed to beat them up.\”

    The physical dynamics of the segment were altered, with Carmella recognizing what it meant.

    \”They changed all the physicality to them beating me up and I was just like I just knew in my heart I\’m like I am going to win it again and um I did.\”

    Making History

    This promo performance led to Carmella becoming the first woman to win Money in the Bank twice, and she holds the record for the longest reign with the briefcase. Her ability to showcase her character work when given the opportunity proved pivotal to her career trajectory, demonstrating that sometimes one standout performance can change everything in professional wrestling.

  • NXT Star \’Shoots His Shot\’ With Bayley After On-Screen Breakup

    Ashante is already teasing his next move following the end of his on-screen relationship with Karmen Petrovic on WWE NXT.

    During this week\’s episode, Petrovic suffered a non-title loss to NXT Women’s North American Champion Sol Ruca. In a surprising turn, she lashed out at Ashante post-match with a kick, signaling the abrupt end of their storyline.

    Shortly after the segment aired, Ashante took to social media to address Bayley, referencing her recent comments during an interview with Chris Van Vliet. Bayley had expressed a willingness to take on any role WWE presents to her, including romantic storylines.

    \”Hey @itsBayleyWWE, I heard you are looking for romance,\” Ashante wrote on X, hinting at a potential new angle.

    Bayley has not publicly responded to the message. With Ashante already moving in a new direction, attention now turns to how Petrovic may react in the weeks ahead.

  • Before the Idol Killer Strikes: What to Know About Thekla

    Fresh off a highly successful stint in Japan, Austrian sensation Thekla is poised to spin her web stateside – drawing serious interest from WWE, AEW, and other leading promotions. Before the “Toxic Spider” makes her North American debut, here are a few key things every fan should know about one of the most intriguing gaijin to emerge from the Joshi scene in years:

    Toxic Spider

    Thekla is an Austrian wrestler known for her aggressive, acrobatic style and \”Toxic Spider\” persona, making her a standout gaijin (foreigner) in Japan\’s top women\’s promotions. She is recognized for her unique look and in-ring psychology, often playing a villainous \”idol killer\” character that contrasts with the typical \”idol\” image of Japanese women\’s wrestling.

    Accolades

    She is a decorated former champion in Japan, having held the Goddesses of Stardom and Artist of Stardom titles in World Wonder Ring Stardom, and the Triangle Ribbon Championship in Ice Ribbon. Thekla was a core member of the Donna del Mondo (DDM) stable alongside Giulia, a name familiar to American fans through her own rising international profile. Thekla and Giulia, as part of the \”Baribari Bombers,\” were ranked among PWI\’s top 100 tag teams in 2023.

    What\’s Next

    Thekla is reportedly drawing interest from both WWE and AEW after finishing her run in Japan, setting the stage for a high-profile debut in the U.S. She has worked with and against top names from the Japanese scene, including Giulia, Suzu Suzuki, and Mayu Iwatani, and is known for her adaptability and strong presence in both singles and tag competition-qualities that could make her a breakout star in American promotions.

    With championship pedigree, a distinctive villainous edge, and the versatility to thrive in singles or tag competition, Thekla arrives on U.S. soil as far more than a curiosity—she’s a breakout star in waiting. Whether she lands in WWE, AEW, or elsewhere, expect the “idol killer” to inject fresh venom into the women’s division and capture global attention the moment the bell rings.

  • Hulk Hogan Teases Donald Trump Appearance at Real American Wrestling\’s Inaugural Event

    Hulk Hogan’s new freestyle wrestling league is already generating buzz—but now there’s a political twist. In a recent interview, Hogan hinted that none other than former President Donald Trump may appear at the league’s debut event in Cleveland on August 30.

    “We were way ahead of the game… but to see our president step up and be involved, I said, I think I know who\’s going to be at our August 30th event in Cleveland,” Hogan said. “I might know somebody. I’d say so. The big man himself.”

    Hogan and Trump have a longstanding relationship, dating back to their shared ties with WWE and appearances at WrestleMania. Trump recently drew headlines for attending the NCAA Wrestling Championships, a moment Hogan says “definitely factored in” to the timing and positioning of his new league.

    The comment adds a new layer of intrigue to Hogan’s Real American Wrestling launch, which has already positioned itself as a disruptor by offering elite amateur wrestlers paid opportunities outside traditional promotions.

    While no official confirmation has been made, Hogan’s playful yet pointed comments suggest fans and media should expect more than just athletic fireworks when the league makes its debut.

    What to Watch: Will Trump’s presence turn the launch into a political spectacle? All eyes are now on Cleveland, August 30.

  • Thekla Exits Stardom, Teases U.S. Move Amid AEW and WWE Interest

    Thekla has concluded her time with Stardom, ending a three-year tenure with the Japanese promotion as she prepares for the next chapter in her wrestling career. Thekla\’s contract with Stardom has expired, and her planned relocation to the United States is now underway.

    Her free-agent status has already attracted strong attention from major companies, with both AEW and WWE monitoring her closely. Sources indicated that WWE had taken interest in Thekla during the period surrounding Giulia’s signing, while AEW’s interest intensified toward the end of 2024.

    Independent promotions have also reached out regarding bookings. However, Fightful reports that sources within AEW believe Thekla is expected to join their company—marking AEW as her likely next destination.

    Thekla\’s Next Chapter

    Thekla has been keeping fans apprised of her status on social media. Most recently, she posted a photo on Thursday of herself holding her passport with the caption, “Off to new lands.”

    With her Stardom chapter officially closed and a move to the U.S. confirmed, Thekla is poised to make an impact in WWE, AEW, or other top US-based promotions very soon.

  • TNA Impact Preview: Special Start Time, Live from Irvine, CA

    Show Details & How to Watch

    • Live from Bren Events Center, Irvine, California
    • Special start time: 10/9c on AXS TV (US), Sportsnet+ (Canada), TNA+ (worldwide)

    Featured Matches & Segments

    • Six-Man Tag Team Main Event:
      TNA World Champion Joe Hendry teams with The Hardys (Matt & Jeff Hardy) to face the new TNA World Tag Team Champions, The Nemeths (Nic & Ryan Nemeth), and Frankie Kazarian. This follows the Nemeths stealing the tag titles at Rebellion, promising high-stakes chaos.
    • Indi Hartwell Speaks:
      After her shocking debut at Rebellion, the newest Knockout, Indi Hartwell, addresses the TNA audience for the first time.
    • X-Division Title Match:
      Zachary Wentz, who pinned Moose in six-man action at Rebellion, challenges Moose for the X-Division Championship. Will Wentz capitalize on his momentum or will Moose retain?
    • Singles Match:
      KC Navarro (with AJ Francis) battles Leon Slater in a one-on-one bout after both impressed in the Ultimate X match. This is expected to be a show-stealer.
    • Mike Santana in Action:
      Fresh off a brutal Falls Count Anywhere victory over Mustafa Ali, Mike Santana returns to the ring. His opponent has not been announced.
    • Steve Maclin Speaks:
      Still International Champion after surviving Eric Young and an attack by the Northern Armory, Steve Maclin will address the TNA audience live.
    • Jody Threat vs. Maggie Lee:
      Jody Threat seeks redemption against Maggie Lee, the Elegance brand’s newest weapon, after choosing honor over brutality at Rebellion.

    Tune in for the fallout from Rebellion and several high-stakes matches and segments, all live at a special time.

    TNA Rebellion 2025 Fallout

    • Joe Hendry retained the TNA World Championship in a triple threat match but was attacked post-match by Trick Williams, setting up a new rivalry.
    • The Nemeth Brothers (Nic & Ryan Nemeth) defeated The Hardys to become new TNA World Tag Team Champions, using underhanded tactics to secure the win.
    • Moose retained the X-Division Championship in an Ultimate X match, overcoming multiple challengers in a chaotic bout.
    • Steve Maclin successfully defended the International Championship against Eric Young, but was attacked and left laying by The Armory after the match.
    • Indi Hartwell made her debut as the newest Knockout, officially joining the TNA Knockouts division and promising to shake up the women’s roster.
  • WWE Star Dakota Kai Reveals New Natural Look

    Dakota Kai has revealed a striking new hairstyle while remaining away from in-ring action. Known for frequently changing her look, the WWE Raw star showcased her natural curls in a recent Instagram post, departing from her usual straightened styles.

    Opening up about her hair transformation, Kai shared that she previously damaged her hair through years of straightening and bleaching, which led her to cut it down to an inch in 2020. She admitted to struggling with her natural texture due to teasing and lack of care knowledge growing up.

    “Surprise haha,” Kai wrote. “In 2020, I had to cut all my natural hair to an inch. I had been straightening and bleaching the s**t out of my hair since high school and it took its toll. I never loved my curly hair because I didn’t know how to look after it and I got teased for it growing up.”

    She credited Kendra Simmons of Her Hand Styles for helping restore her hair’s health, adding, “@herhandstyles played the biggest part of helping it get healthy. I love her sm for that and I’m learning to love my hair too.”

    Kai last competed on the March 24 WWE Main Event taping, which aired March 27, where she scored a win over Ivy Nile. Her most recent Raw appearance also featured a victory against Nile on the March 17 episode.

  • AEW Dynamite Results & Fallout – April 30, 2025

    Steel Cage World-Title Match Headlines Beach Break

    Moments after the Death Riders ambushed reigning Trios Champions The Opps, Samoa Joe strode onto the stage and challenged AEW World Champion Jon Moxley to defend the title inside a steel cage at Beach Break on May 14 in Chicago. Moxley—still seething from the post-match brawl—accepted immediately. The bout will be the first singles meeting between the two since Moxley captured the championship.

    Owen Hart Cup Finals Finalized for Double or Nothing

    Both tournament brackets reached their conclusions tonight, completing the card for the annual Owen Hart Cup Finals at Double or Nothing on May 25:

    • Men\’s Final – \”Hangman\” Adam Page vs. Will Ospreay
    • Page punched his ticket by defeating Kyle Fletcher with the Buckshot Lariat, setting up a first-ever singles showdown with Ospreay.
    • Women\’s Final – Mercedes Moné vs. Jamie Hayter
    • Although the bracket wrapped last week, Mercedes Moné\’s post-match confrontation with Women\’s World Champion Toni Storm and Hayter\’s surprise assault on Moné reignited hostilities. Commentary confirmed the winner will earn a future championship opportunity.

    Women\’s Division Turmoil

    Toni Storm survived a stiff non-title test from Japan\’s Miyu Yamashita, but her celebration was cut short when Mercedes Moné confronted her in the aisle. Before Moné could issue a formal challenge, Jamie Hayter blindsided the CEO, turning the title picture into a three-way collision course. Storm now faces Hayter\’s ally Lady Frost in an eliminator match this Saturday on Collision—a bout AEW officials note could vault Frost into title contention.

    The Hurt Syndicate\’s Ultimatum to MJF

    In a tense backstage segment, Bobby Lashley informed MJF that his long-teased entry into The Hurt Syndicate hinges on a \”trial by fire\” next week. MJF must \”prove himself in blood\” on the May 7 Dynamite; failure means the invitation is off the table. The opponent—and stipulation—will be revealed live.

    Other Key Results & Angles

    • All-Star Eight-Man Tag: Kazuchika Okada and the Young Bucks joined Ricochet to defeat Kenny Omega, Leon Slater, Mike Bailey and Mark Briscoe. Okada stole the pin on Briscoe, then locked eyes with Omega—a clear signal that their rivalry is far from over.
    • ROH World Television Championship: Nick Wayne retained against Jay Lethal after a hard-fought House Call, marking his first successful defense since capturing the belt.
    • The Opps vs. Titus/Comoroto/Hawkins: The champions rolled, but were attacked post-match by the Death Riders, escalating the factions\’ bad blood.

    Newly Announced Matches

    AEW Collision – Saturday, May 3

    • Toni Storm (non-title) vs. Lady Frost – Women\’s World Title Eliminator
    • Brody King vs. Josh Alexander – First-time ever singles encounter

    AEW Dynamite – Wednesday, May 7

    • MJF\’s Hurt Syndicate \”trial by fire\” (opponent TBA)

    Beach Break – Tuesday, May 14

    • Jon Moxley (c) vs. Samoa Joe – AEW World Championship, Steel Cage

    Double or Nothing – Sunday, May 25

    • Owen Hart Cup Men\’s Final: \”Hangman\” Adam Page vs. Will Ospreay
    • Owen Hart Cup Women\’s Final: Mercedes Moné vs. Jamie Hayter
    • Women\’s World Title Match – Date and challenger to be determined following the Owen Hart Final and Toni Storm\’s eliminator bouts

    Looking Ahead

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    With the World Title now locked inside a cage and both Owen Hart Cup finals set in stone, AEW\’s route to Double or Nothing suddenly looks crystal clear—but hardly calm. Next week will reveal whether MJF can survive the Hurt Syndicate\’s gauntlet and whether Toni Storm can navigate a division coming at her from two directions. One thing is certain after tonight\’s fireworks in Norfolk: May is going to be a brutal, unmissable month on the road to Las Vegas.????????????????

  • Logan Paul Rejects \’YouTuber\’ Label, Eyes the WWE Championship

    Logan Paul joined the Raw Recap podcast directly from his private jet, fresh off his backstage attack on World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso. The social media star turned WWE Superstar made it clear he\’s moved beyond his digital content origins and is fully committed to wrestling success.

    Cutting the YouTuber Narrative in Half

    When addressing Jey Uso\’s \”punk ass YouTuber\” comments from Monday Night Raw, Paul didn\’t hold back:

    \”Yeah, he\’s mistaken. I don\’t blame him. He\’s just a headline hunter. I\’m not a YouTuber anymore. And I\’m cutting that narrative in half right now. That\’s not the case. And I prove that every time I wrestle. When I\’m in there, if I\’m a YouTuber, why am I looking better than my peers who do this full time, who\’ve done this 15 years?\”

    Paul pointed to his match with Roman Reigns – just his third WWE contest – as evidence of his natural wrestling ability.

    Despite taking an unconventional path to WWE, Paul believes his performances speak for themselves and deserve respect from both fans and locker room veterans.

    Championship Aspirations

    Paul made no secret of his championship ambitions, stating the World Heavyweight Championship is just one of many titles he feels he should possess:

    \”For sure. And that\’s, by the way, one of the many titles I think I should be holding. If they were up to me, I\’d be holding all of them. I think when it comes to box office, views, capability, everything, I\’m the full package. Anyone who denies that is just oblivious.\”

    The controversial Superstar has clearly set his sights on Jey Uso\’s recently-won championship, seemingly unbothered by the traditional path most wrestlers take to reach title contention.

  • Big E Breaks Down Gunther vs Pat McAfee, Logan Paul vs Jey Uso

    During his appearance on Raw Recap, Big E provided expert analysis on two significant matchups taking shape in WWE – Pat McAfee vs. Gunther at Backlash and the brewing conflict between Logan Paul and World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso.

    Gunther\’s Dangerous Potential

    Big E expressed genuine concern for commentator Pat McAfee as he prepares to face the recently dethroned Gunther at WWE Backlash:

    \”Of all the guys that I\’ve seen since I have been out that I have watched come up on the main roster that I thought were real forces that I imagine myself in the ring with. Gunther is gonna put it on you, Gunther is gonna, if you end up winning that match, you are going to leave hurting. I am worried about Pat, I think his family should be worried about Pat.\”

    The former champion noted that Gunther\’s frustration after losing his title makes him particularly dangerous, comparing him to old-school wrestlers who would return from injuries still in casts just to seek revenge.

    Logan Paul\’s Legitimate Threat

    Despite his unconventional background, Big E acknowledged Logan Paul represents a genuine threat to Jey Uso\’s championship:

    \”He\’s a guy who is obviously very athletically gifted. He\’s someone that so many of us don\’t wanna root for, we don\’t wanna see him do well. But then he goes out there and he beats AJ Styles and he goes out there and he has incredible matches with Roman Reigns, with so many people on the roster, the dude is very talented.\”

    Big E noted that just three weeks into Jey\’s hard-earned championship reign, he\’s already facing an opponent who has demonstrated the ability to compete with top WWE talent. The former champion cautioned that regardless of how fans feel about Paul personally, his capabilities in the ring make him a legitimate championship contender.

  • Steve Austin Explains What Went Wrong With His WrestleMania 41 ATV Mishap

    When the glass shattered at WrestleMania 41 Night 2, fans expected \”Stone Cold\” Steve Austin to roar down the aisle on his trademark ATV, raise a few fists (and a few beers), and deliver the evening\’s attendance figure. Instead, the WWE Hall of Famer gave Las Vegas a moment he\’d rather forget: on his second lap around the ring, Austin clipped the ringside barricade, sending both himself and a front-row fan sprawling.

    What Went Wrong?

    Chatting with Ariel Helwani on The Ariel Helwani Show today, April 30, 2025, Austin explained that the stunt vehicle wasn\’t the familiar rig he\’s been tearing up arenas with since the Attitude Era.

    \”Different throttle set-up than what I\’m used to. Long story short, just a different throttle system. I\’m pretty dang handy on a four-wheeler,\” he laughed.

    Seconds later, his confidence overruled the new controls—and the barricade won. WWE President Nick Khan rushed over to check on the startled fan, while Austin—ever the pro—made sure the attendee was okay before climbing between the ropes to handle his duties. After the segment, the Texas Rattlesnake circled back a second time to apologize in person.

    The Rattlesnake\’s Reaction

    Despite everyone walking away unscathed, Austin admits the mishap stung more than a Stunner gone wrong:

    \”I was embarrassed by it. You go out there on the biggest night in wrestling and you end up like that—it\’s not the greatest day at the office. You want to give people the best show you can, and when you fall short of that, it\’s not great.\”

    A Hall of Fame Weekend—With a Bump

    The ATV snafu came just 24 hours after Austin and Bret Hart jointly received WrestleMania\’s inaugural \”Immortal Moment\” Hall of Fame honor for their legendary WrestleMania 13 bout. One embarrassing spill won\’t tarnish that legacy, but it did remind the six-time WWE Champion that even icons can hit the brakes—literally—on the grandest stage.

    Bottom Line

    Accident or not, Austin still delivered his signature swagger (and the attendance number) to 60,000-plus fans in Allegiant Stadium. As for the unlucky speed bump in the front row? They\’ve now got a once-in-a-lifetime tale to tell—and maybe a souvenir handshake from the toughest SOB in the business.

  • More Details About Real American Freestyle Wrestling

    In a bold move that merges Olympic-style grappling with professional wrestling spectacle, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff have officially announced elite coach Israel \”Izzy\” Martinez as the third partner in their new venture: Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW). The announcement came via an nWo-inspired teaser video that has already generated significant buzz in both the wrestling and combat sports communities.

    During the announcement, Bischoff highlighted Martinez\’s impressive credentials, describing him as a \”nine-time state high-school champion\” and \”coach of eight UFC champions.\” Hogan promised fans a \”black-and-blue\” fight scene where athletes \”get paid to beat people up.\”

    Martinez himself addressed viewers directly: \”You\’ve seen what these two have done before. We\’ve got the cash, we got the talent, we got real American freestyle wrestling.\”

    A Groundbreaking Concept

    According to a press release, Real American Freestyle is being positioned as \”an unscripted freestyle wrestling league injected with storytelling and colorful characters\” that aims to \”blend the drama of pro wrestling and reality shows with the unscripted competition of freestyle wrestling.\” This represents a significant departure from traditional freestyle wrestling competitions, which typically lack the entertainment elements that make professional wrestling so popular.

    Hogan explained their mission in the official press release:

    \”Real American wrestlers are some of the most disciplined, elite athletes in the world — but until now, they haven\’t had a true professional stage to showcase their greatness. Eric and I know how to build the kind of heat that grabs attention and we\’re going to make Real American Freestyle wrestling a must-see for fans.\”

    The Elite Partnership

    The partnership brings together three individuals with complementary expertise and official roles:

    Hulk Hogan will serve as Commissioner of Real American Freestyle, bringing his decades of experience in professional wrestling entertainment and global name recognition.

    Eric Bischoff takes on the role of Chief Media Officer, contributing his extensive business acumen and experience in wrestling production. In the press release, Bischoff stated:

    \”I intimately understand and appreciate what it takes to perform at the level these athletes do, and I was always curious why this sport wasn\’t recognized for the potential it has.\”

    Israel \”Izzy\” Martinez joins as Chief Operating Officer, providing the technical wrestling expertise and coaching prowess that gives RAFW its competitive legitimacy. Martinez expressed in the press release:

    \”I\’ve been an athlete and a coach in the sport of wrestling, and couldn\’t be more proud of what the Real American Freestyle team has built.\”

    Martinez\’s Wrestling Pedigree

    Martinez brings over two decades of elite wrestling coaching experience to the partnership. As the founder of Izzy Style Wrestling in Illinois, he has developed numerous NCAA All-Americans through his program.

    He currently serves as the head wrestling coach at Jackson-Wink MMA, where he helped shape the career of Jon Jones, who captured eight UFC titles under his guidance. Martinez has also worked with other MMA champions including Holly Holm and top contender Yair Rodríguez.

    His coaching philosophy blends traditional folkstyle fundamentals with freestyle techniques—an approach that forms \”the backbone of RAFW.\”

    Competition Format and Roster

    Real American Freestyle has already announced an impressive roster of talent. Former UFC fighter Ben Askren, former Olympian and world champion Kennedy Blades, and former national champion Zahid Valencia have all signed on to compete.

    When asked about the ideal athlete for RAFW in an interview with Alfred Konuwa for Forbes, Hogan emphasized their approach:

    \”We went to Ohio, Wisconsin, hung around some of the colleges… and it wasn\’t like just plain white toast. It wasn\’t flat. It was like these guys have a Conor McGregor swagger already. They know about branding. They\’re smartened up way ahead of their time.\”

    Bischoff added during the same interview:

    \”Wrestling in particular, you\’ve got to be wired a little differently to reach the elite level that some of our athletes have. And part of that is just really, really interesting individual personalities and characters, and the things that these people have to overcome.\”

    Business Model and Media Approach

    RAFW will receive venture capital investment from Left Lane Capital, backers of Gerard Piqué\’s Kings League, Shaun White\’s Snow League, and League One Volleyball. This significant financial backing suggests a serious commitment to building the promotion as a long-term venture.

    Regarding their media approach, Bischoff explained to Forbes:

    \”It is about, as Hulk said, much like The Voice on NBC, it is a show about singers… You don\’t really care until you find out what it took for them to get there. And you learn about their families, you learn about the history… Those are the stories that matter the most. Much more than something a Hollywood writer could come up with.\”

    While no TV deals have been announced yet, Bischoff noted in his Forbes interview:

    \”We know that right now the market for sports rights, television rights. It\’s a very healthy market and we\’re glad to be in it, but we\’ve got our work to do.\”

    The Future of RAFW

    The promotion aims to create a unique format that bridges the gap between amateur wrestling and professional entertainment. According to Hogan in the Forbes interview: \”I think with this amateur wrestling, the storytelling is going to be so organic, that once these guys get in that gladiator arena and they start tugging and pulling for position… their whole life is on the line, I think the storytelling is going to get really crazy as to how far these guys are going to go to win.\”

    Bischoff emphasized to Forbes that: \”These are not sports entertainment stories. These are not crafted by writers… You learn about their families, you learn about the history. You learn about the people in their church who inspired them and kept them going.\”

    According to Martinez in the press release, this new venture represents a significant opportunity for amateur wrestlers: \”Until now, wrestlers have not had the opportunity to seek a professional career as there was not adequate funding or attention being paid to it. This league will provide them with a platform to not only do that, but build their skills, brand, and legacy.\”

    As RAFW continues to develop its roster, ruleset, and media presence, the wrestling world will be watching closely. With the combined industry expertise of these three figures, RAFW\’s debut could represent one of the most significant innovations in wrestling entertainment in recent memory.

  • Hulk Hogan Critical of John Cena\’s WWE Heel Turn: \’I Just Got Disconnected\’

    Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has offered candid thoughts on John Cena\’s recent heel turn while discussing his new venture with longtime collaborator Eric Bischoff. In a wide-ranging interview with Forbes published on April 30, 2025, Hogan didn\’t hold back when comparing Cena\’s character switch to his own historic 1996 heel turn that launched the nWo.

    When asked to compare John Cena\’s heel turn to his own historic turn, Hogan initially deflected, saying: \”I\’m going to let Eric comment on that, because if I talk first, I could say something that\’s [not appropriate].\”

    This hesitation suggested Hogan had strong opinions about the execution of Cena\’s character change, which he later elaborated on after Bischoff shared his thoughts.

    Respect for Cena as a Performer

    Despite his criticisms, Hogan expressed genuine respect for Cena, stating:

    \”Well, first off, John Cena was my favorite wrestler. Let me start there. Because I grinded for years, brother, and there was no Rock, no Stone Cold. There was only me for 20-plus years. I saw all the Make-A-Wish kids… So John stepped up and really ran with the ball and he did a really great job.\”

    The acknowledgment of Cena\’s charitable work and his role in carrying WWE during his era demonstrated Hogan\’s appreciation for Cena\’s contributions to professional wrestling.

    Criticism of Cena\’s Heel Turn Execution

    However, Hogan criticized how Cena\’s heel turn was executed compared to the nWo storyline:

    \”We set it up, we set up, we set up, then we delivered. And then not only did we deliver, we rolled out with me, Hall and Nash. And that story kept snowballing and snowballing, and we kept getting more evil and evil.\”

    Continuing his critique, Hogan added:

    \”And so for me, watching that story with John Cena, when The Rock did the throat thing, cut his throat, and John Cena turned heel, I expected more of the same. And then John Cena came out and there was no Rock, and I just got disconnected at that point, \’cause I was expecting the characters to keep rolling out like we did.\”

    Comparing the Impact of Both Turns

    Hogan emphasized the greater impact of his nWo turn:

    \”Like when the nWo took over, man, I even hate to say the word, we just cleaned house and beat everybody\’s ass, and we just killed it. All the babyfaces were crying and complaining, and it got really ugly. We were so powerful with that trio.\”

    The wrestling icon clearly believes the follow-through and long-term storytelling behind his own heel turn created a more significant impact than what he\’s seen from Cena\’s character change so far.

    Real American Freestyle Wrestling

    The interview was conducted as part of Hogan and Bischoff\’s promotion of their new venture called \”Real American Freestyle,\” an unscripted freestyle wrestling league that aims to combine legitimate wrestling competition with the storytelling elements that made professional wrestling successful.

  • JBL on WWE\’s AAA Acquisition: \’Don\’t WWE It, Preserve Lucha Libre\’s Heritage\’

    WWE legend JBL has enthusiastically endorsed WWE\’s acquisition of Mexican wrestling promotion AAA, calling it a \”fantastic partnership\” while emphasizing the importance of preserving lucha libre\’s unique cultural identity.

    Speaking on Conrad Thompson\’s Something to Wrestle podcast, JBL expressed excitement about the business move while cautioning against completely transforming the product as WWE has done with past territory acquisitions.

    \”I\’m excited about them with Triple A. I think it\’s great,\” JBL said during the interview. \”I always thought that WWE should have done this maybe back in the day where you acquire a territory like Mexico that is completely different that wants their own culture and wants their own heritage and wants their own history, but wants to be a part also.\”

    The former WWE Champion elaborated on his vision for the partnership, emphasizing cultural preservation.

    \”Not where you WWE it… but where you buy it and you have a WWE influx into it, but you leave the culture and heritage the same with Lucha Libre,\” he stated, highlighting a key concern among wrestling fans about corporate acquisitions.

    JBL also used the opportunity to spotlight rising talent he\’s observed through his visits to Triple A events.

    \”That [Vikingo], I think that\’s how you say his name. I watched him have a match down there with Del Rio. That kid is freaking amazing,\” he raved.

    This acquisition, scheduled to close later this year, represents a significant step in WWE\’s global strategy under Triple H\’s leadership.

    The first AAA event under the WWE banners is taking place in less than six weeks at WWE NXT x AAA: Worlds Collide on June 7, 2025.

  • JBL: Paul Heyman-Seth Rollins Alliance \’Perfect\’ Move for WWE\’s Future

    WWE Hall of Famer JBL has given his emphatic approval of Paul Heyman\’s shocking alliance with Seth Rollins at WrestleMania, calling it the \”perfect\” creative direction for everyone involved.

    Speaking on Conrad Thompson\’s Something to Wrestle podcast, JBL explained why pairing Heyman with Rollins makes strategic sense, especially with Roman Reigns and CM Punk currently positioned as fan favorites.

    \”Seth Rollins was the right choice. I thought that was the way… that was 100% the way I would go,\” JBL stated firmly. \”Paul Heyman, I think is a separate issue. But if you want to put a fresh coat of paint on Paul, which is really hard to do after 30, 40 years in the business of being constantly in main events, all of a sudden now Paul Heyman is just as rejuvenated as ever.\”

    The former World Champion further praised Heyman\’s legendary career while noting how this new alliance continues his unprecedented success as a manager.

    \”He\’s got the greatest run of a manager in the history of the world and he\’s done it again and he\’s on fire again with a new guy that went over two incredible legends,\” JBL added.

    This alliance could significantly impact WWE\’s main event scene moving forward, with Heyman once again positioned to influence championship storylines despite his decades-long career already being considered the most successful managerial run in wrestling history. The move gives Heyman a fresh start after his iconic pairings Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns and The Bloodline.

  • Karrion Kross Teases Joining Seth Rollins\’ New Power Alliance After Sami Zayn\’s Rejection

    WWE\’s newest power alliance may soon be adding another member to its ranks. Following Seth Rollins, Paul Heyman, and Bron Breakker\’s brutal attack on Sami Zayn during Monday Night Raw, Karrion Kross has begun teasing his potential interest in joining the dominant faction through cryptic social media posts.

    Sami Zayn\’s Confrontation

    On Monday\’s Raw (April 28), Sami Zayn confronted Seth Rollins about his hypocrisy in allying with Paul Heyman and Bron Breakker, calling the new faction a \”load of crap\” and pointing out that Rollins was just becoming another \”Paul Heyman guy\” like Roman Reigns and CM Punk.

    Rollins offered Zayn an ultimatum: move to SmackDown or face consequences. Heyman sweetened the deal by promising Zayn a championship match against the Cena-Orton winner at Backlash if he accepted. When Zayn refused, Breakker delivered multiple devastating spears before Rollins finished with a Curb Stomp.

    Karrion Kross Shows Interest

    Following the confrontation, Karrion Kross took to social media asking fans if they thought Zayn made the right choice. When a fan suggested Kross should join Rollins\’ faction due to their aligned visions, Kross responded with intrigue, posting: \”Oh really? Elaborate. You have my attention?\” before sharing a telling GIF that suggested further interest.

    While initial reports indicated the faction would remain a three-man team, Kross\’s social media activity suggests potential expansion. WWE is reportedly planning to elevate Kross in a \”unique manner\” with focus on character development after he \”turned heads\” with his viral WrestleMania 41 rant.

    Kross\’s Recent Character Evolution

    Since the disbandment of his previous faction, The Final Testament, in February 2025, Kross has been involved in backstage segments trying to convince various superstars to \”embrace their dark side\” – making this potential alliance with the Rollins-Heyman-Breakker group a natural progression.

    With recent rumors mentioning \”Karrion Kross opportunities\” in WWE\’s future plans, his potential inclusion in what some are calling the new \”Dangerous Alliance\” could represent a significant elevation on the roster.

  • AEW Dynamite Preview: April 30, 2025

    AEW Dynamite roars into the Chartway Arena in Norfolk, Virginia tonight (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) at 8 p.m. ET on TBS and streams simultaneously on Max, bringing a card head-lined by Hangman Page vs. Kyle Fletcher in the Owen Hart Cup semifinal, an All-Star eight-man tag that pits Kenny Omega’s crew against The Elite, and a “Timeless” Toni Storm eliminator bout—all while MJF and The Hurt Syndicate promise volatile mic time.

    Tonight’s AEW Dynamite airs live on TBS (8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT) with streaming on Max, emanating from the Chartway Arena in Norfolk, VA. The show serves as AEW’s final Dynamite of April and sets the table for next month’s Double or Nothing, as tournament spots and simmering rivalries collide under one roof.

    \"AEW
    Match / SegmentPreview
    Owen Hart Foundation Men’s Tournament Semifinal
    Hangman Adam Page vs. Kyle Fletcher
    Page looks to punch his ticket to the finals and a potential rematch with Will Ospreay, while Fletcher fights to keep Don Callis Family momentum rolling.
    All-Star 8-Man Tag
    Kenny Omega, Mark Briscoe, “Speedball” Mike Bailey & Kevin Knight vs. The Young Bucks, Kazuchika Okada & Ricochet
    Omega seeks payback on The Elite, adding the high-flying Bailey, Knight and Briscoe to counter Okada and Ricochet’s debut Dynamite alliance with the Bucks.
    AEW Women’s World Championship Eliminator
    Champion “Timeless” Toni Storm vs. Miyu Yamashita
    Storm’s red-carpet open challenge at the TCM Film Festival lures Japan’s “Pink Striker”; if Yamashita wins, she earns a future title shot.
    MJF appearanceStill desperate to impress Bobby Lashley, Max promises “something unforgettable” in Norfolk as he angles for Hurt Syndicate membership.
    The Hurt Syndicate speakAEW World Tag Champions will respond to MJF’s overtures and address their next title defense.

    Catch real-time results, backstage updates, and post-show analysis all night long here on SEScoops.com – your home for the latest AEW news.

  • Real American Freestyle Wrestling: Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff Unveil Izzy Martinez

    In a bold move that merges Olympic-style grappling with professional wrestling spectacle, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff have officially announced elite coach Israel \”Izzy\” Martinez as the third partner in their new venture: Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW). The announcement came via an nWo-inspired teaser video that has already generated significant buzz.

    The High-Profile Partnership

    During the announcement, Bischoff highlighted Martinez\’s impressive credentials, describing him as a \”nine-time state high-school champion\” and \”coach of eight UFC champions.\” Hogan promised fans a \”black-and-blue\” fight scene where athletes \”get paid to beat people up.\”

    Martinez himself addressed viewers directly: \”You\’ve seen what these two have done before. We\’ve got the cash, we got the talent, we got real American freestyle wrestling.\”

    The video concluded with Hogan\’s iconic delivery style: \”Whatcha gonna do when Real American Freestyle comes for you?\”

    Who Is Izzy Martinez?

    Martinez brings over two decades of elite wrestling coaching experience to the partnership. As the founder of Izzy Style Wrestling in Illinois, he has developed numerous NCAA All-Americans through his program.

    He currently serves as the head wrestling coach at Jackson-Wink MMA, where he helped shape the career of Jon Jones, who captured eight UFC titles under his guidance. Martinez has also worked with other MMA champions including Holly Holm and top contender Yair Rodríguez.

    His coaching philosophy blends traditional folkstyle fundamentals with freestyle techniques—an approach that Hogan indicates will form \”the backbone of RAFW.\”

    What to Expect from RAFW

    The new promotion aims to create a unique format that bridges the gap between amateur wrestling and professional entertainment. Bischoff has teased the possibility of open-weight freestyle tournaments alongside traditional card-style events featuring crossover stars from MMA and collegiate wrestling.

    According to Hogan, Martinez will oversee a developmental system designed to \”turn mega-stars loose\” under the RAFW banner.

    While specific launch dates and media partnerships remain under wraps, industry sources suggest a summer debut may be in the works. There are also reports of interest from retired Olympic wrestlers looking to join the promotion.

    As Hogan enthusiastically put it: \”Izzymania is gonna go wild on the whole world of wrestling.\” With the combined industry expertise of these three figures, RAFW\’s debut could represent one of the most significant crossovers between amateur and professional wrestling in recent memory.

  • Meta-Four Disbands on WWE NXT Following Noam Dar’s Return

    A WWE faction disbanded on the April 29 episode of NXT on The CW, as Meta-Four—comprising Noam Dar, Lash Legend, Jakara Jackson, and Oro Mensah—agreed to go their separate ways.

    Noam Dar returned last week in Las Vegas to capture the NXT Heritage Cup Championship from Lexis King, marking his first appearance since a May 2024 injury. However, he was notably unaccompanied by the rest of Meta-Four during his comeback.

    During Dar’s absence, Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson made strides on the main roster, including competing for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles at Crown Jewel and participating in the Royal Rumble. Oro Mensah, meanwhile, has shifted focus to WWE’s new Evolve brand, where he’s become a consistent presence.

    On this week’s episode, the group briefly reunited backstage. Legend addressed how each member had started moving in different directions and suggested it might be time to officially part ways. The group shared a final hug, leaving Dar standing alone with the Heritage Cup trophy as the segment closed.