Author: Mike Reichlin

  • AEW Moves All In Texas Start Time to Avoid WWE Conflict

    AEW has officially shifted the start time of its All In: Texas pay-per-view to the afternoon on Saturday, July 12, 2025. The event will now begin at 3 PM ET (2 PM local time) in Arlington, Texas, moving away from prime time.

    The change comes after WWE announced its own event, Saturday Night’s Main Event, scheduled for the same evening at 8 PM ET. AEW\’s adjustment avoids direct competition, highlighting the ongoing pattern of strategic scheduling between the two wrestling promotions.

    All In: Texas is AEW’s first pay-per-view in the state and will be held at Globe Life Field. Despite the scheduling shift, the company is maintaining a full week of events, including AEW Dynamite on July 9 and AEW Collision on July 10 at the Curtis Culwell Center.

    Tickets are available now, with VIP packages offering ringside or lower bowl seating, AEW star meet and greets, pre-show photo ops, and other premium perks.

  • The Rock’s \’Final Boss\’ Character Toned Down for Disney, Says Vince Russo

    Former WWE writer Vince Russo says Dwayne Johnson\’s lucrative five-film deal with Disney is affecting the presentation of his character in WWE.

    On Sportskeeda\’s Wrestling Outlaws, Russo claimed The Rock intentionally distanced himself from his “Final Boss” persona in WWE cannon to stay in line with the Mouse. According to Russo, The Rock told TKO executives, including CEO Ari Emanuel, “Guys, I’ve got a five-picture deal with Disney. So I am going to make it clear to the fan base that I am just an actor. I am just playing a character.”

    The Rock Draws The Line

    This statement allegedly preceded the media scrum that took place after Elimination Chamber, where The Rock broke kayfabe and clarified to fans:

    “The Final Boss is a character. It’s a performance.”

    Russo suggests the move was strategic, aimed at protecting both The Rock’s public image and financial interests. Full-time wrestling could pose risks—physical injury, conflicting schedules, or public controversies—that might conflict with Disney’s family-friendly brand and contractual expectations.

    “Rock’s trying to protect all sides of his business,” Russo explained. “There’s no kayfabe anymore… it doesn’t matter to the fans today.”

    While The Rock’s in-ring persona is that of a ruthless heel, his Hollywood obligations may require clear boundaries between character and reality.

    If true, The Rock’s kayfabe break wasn’t a misstep—it was a calculated move to keep Disney happy while maintaining his WWE presence.

  • Trailer for WWE\’s WrestleMania 9 Doc coming April 11 to Peacock

    WWE is dusting off the archives with the long-awaited release of WrestleMania IX: Becoming a Spectacle, premiering Friday, April 11, exclusively on Peacock. The documentary dives deep into the chaos and charisma of WrestleMania IX, the infamous 1993 Las Vegas event known as the “World’s Largest Toga Party.”

    The documentary offers never-before-seen footage and behind-the-scenes insights from the first WrestleMania held outdoors, staged at Caesars Palace. Viewers will get an insider look at the production challenges, outrageous set design, and memorable in-ring moments that helped shape WWE’s future.

    The film features appearances from WWE legends like Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, Bret “Hit Man” Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Lex Luger, alongside modern stars like Kofi Kingston and Natalya. WWE and Caesars Palace executives, producers, and directors also lend their voices to offer a full-circle view of the event’s cultural and operational impact.

    Timed ahead of WrestleMania 41, which returns to Las Vegas more than 30 years later, the documentary adds historical weight to this year’s festivities. WWE fans can catch WrestleMania IX: Becoming a Spectacle on April 11 and stream WrestleMania 41 live on Peacock, April 19–20.

    This retrospective joins other WWE Originals on Peacock, including Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal and Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair.

  • From Trish to Tiffy: Charlotte Flair Talks Mentorship and Carrying the Torch

    Charlotte Flair is firmly in the prime of her career. Once tasked with living up to the legacy of Ric Flair, she’s long since stepped out of her father’s shadow to forge a Hall of Fame-worthy path of her own. Along the way, she’s not only become one of the most decorated women in WWE history, but has also transitioned from rising star to standard-bearer—shifting from student to teacher.

    In a recent interview with Alex McCarthy for Daily Mail, Flair reflected on her pivotal matches with wrestling legends and her role in mentoring emerging talents like Tiffany Stratton. Flair drew parallels between her 2019 SummerSlam bout with Trish Stratus and her current storyline with Stratton, emphasizing the responsibility she feels in shaping the next generation of WWE superstars.

    Trish Stratus

    Recalling her match with Stratus, Flair shared:

    \”In 2019, Trish Stratus wanted to come back, and I kept thinking to myself, \’Trish Stratus wants to come back and wrestle me.\’ I have to be as good as she thinks I am; I can\’t be less than. Charlotte Flair is that good that I have to come back.\”

    Tiffany Stratton

    This sentiment resonates in her current feud with Tiffany Stratton. Flair recognizes the significance of being the benchmark for up-and-coming wrestlers:

    \”This is a similar situation. I am going to be as good as everyone thinks I am, and now I feel like I\’m even that much better because 2024 did kick my ass and it did give me the clarity and it did like the spark like no, my career is on my time and I\’m coming for everything. I\’ve done my homework.\”

    Flair\’s commitment to excellence not only cements her legacy but also sets a high standard for newcomers like Stratton, ensuring the evolution and continuity of women\’s wrestling.

  • DDP Recalls the Day Lex Luger Was Paralyzed: \’I Thought He Had a Heart Attack\’

    When wrestling legend Lex Luger collapsed in a San Francisco hotel room in 2007, Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) was one of the first people on the scene—and his emotional recollection of that day is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change.

    “I ran through the door… and he’s sitting there like this in the chair. Cleaned up,” DDP recounted during a recent conversation with Eric Bischoff and Luger himself. “I give him a hug and didn’t even notice he didn’t move. It wasn’t even in my brain.”

    Initially, those around Luger believed he was having a heart attack.

    “The promoter calls me and says, ‘DDP, I just heard Lex had a heart attack—they had to break down his door.’” But the reality was more devastating: Luger had suffered a spinal cord injury that would leave him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down.

    The journey that followed was anything but typical. The EMTs transporting Luger were wrestling fans and made a bold decision to bypass local hospitals to take him to Stanford—a world-class facility 45 minutes away.

    “We might get fired,” one EMT said. “Let’s do it,” the other replied. Luger was then treated by nurses with symbolic names like Faith and Hope. “When I got to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, they put me in room 3:16,” Luger said. “I was like, ‘What are the odds of that?’”

    Faced with the prognosis of lifelong paralysis, Luger leaned into his newfound faith.

    “Either bring me home or teach me how,” he prayed. “I knew that whatever happened, God had me in his hand.”

    For DDP, it was a full-circle moment—seeing a man transformed not just physically, but spiritually.

    “He’s a different person,” DDP said. “God gave Lex a new purpose.”

    Though once told he\’d need 24/7 care forever, Luger has since regained partial movement and a renewed sense of mission, crediting the inspiration he found in others DDP had helped, like Jake \”The Snake\” Roberts and Butterbean.

    “I still have a purpose,” Luger said. “I can be a light for others.”

    Lex Luger: WWE Hall of Famer

    Lex Luger\’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame later this month is a fitting culmination of a life and career defined by resilience, transformation, and inspiration.

    From his days as \”The Total Package\” dominating the wrestling world to his personal battles and physical challenges, Luger\’s journey has been inspirational.

    His ability to overcome adversity, including a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed, and his embrace of faith and purpose have made him a beacon of hope for many.

    This honor not only celebrates his in-ring accomplishments—such as his iconic bodyslam of Yokozuna and being a co-winner of the 1994 Royal Rumble—but also recognizes the man he has become outside the ring. Luger\’s gratitude, humility, and dedication to helping others serve as a testament to his enduring legacy.

    As he takes his place among wrestling\’s greatest at the Hall of Fame ceremony in Las Vegas, it is clear that Lex Luger\’s story is one of redemption, perseverance, and triumph—a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

  • AEW Reveals Four-Day \’All In: Texas Week\’ Lineup for July

    AEW has confirmed a major four-day stretch of programming with All In: Texas Week, scheduled for July 9 through July 12, 2025. The events will span two cities—Garland and Arlington, Texas—featuring multiple top-tier shows and fan events.

    The week kicks off with AEW Dynamite on Wednesday, July 9, followed by AEW Collision on Thursday, July 10. Both shows will be held at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland.

    On Friday, July 11, ROH Death Before Dishonor takes place at Esports Stadium in Arlington. That same day also marks the start of Starrcast Texas, running Friday and Saturday at the Sheraton Arlington.

    All In: Texas Week wraps up on Saturday, July 12, with AEW All In Texas at Globe Life Field in Arlington, starting at 2 PM.

    For more information and tickets, fans can visit AEWAllInTexas.com.

  • Giulia Update Amid NXT Absence

    Giulia has not appeared on WWE television since her title loss at NXT: Roadblock 2025, though she was recently spotted at a WWE live event. At the March event, Giulia dropped the NXT Women’s Championship to Stephanie Vaquer, the reigning champion who just forfeited the NXT Women\’s North American title.

    Giulia has been at the WWE Performance Center in recent weeks, per Fightful, but has not participated in any in-ring training since her title loss. While there is speculation of a possible ankle injury, this has not been officially confirmed. WWE is said to remain hopeful about her return.

    Giulia’s 2025 in NXT has marked a breakout year, firmly establishing her as one of the brand’s top stars. She captured the NXT Women’s Championship at NXT: New Year’s Evil on January 7 after defeating Roxanne Perez, becoming only the third wrestler to hold both the World of Stardom Championship and the NXT Women’s Championship—joining Asuka and IYO SKY. Her reign featured a high-profile defense at NXT Vengeance Day in February, where she retained her title in a fatal four-way against Perez, Bayley, and Cora Jade.

    Though her championship run ended on March 11 in a Winner Takes All match against Vaquer, Giulia’s impact on the women’s division has been undeniable. Her charisma, in-ring style, and ability to elevate talent around her have positioned her as a standout presence in NXT.

  • WWE 2K25 Confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2

    Nintendo has confirmed that WWE 2K25 will be available on the Nintendo Switch 2, marking the franchise\’s return to Nintendo platforms since WWE 2K18 in 2017. The announcement was made during Wednesdays Nintendo Direct presentation.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025. This new iteration maintains the hybrid design of its predecessor but introduces several enhancements. It features a larger 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a more vibrant and smoother visual experience.

    The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned for improved ergonomics and now attach magnetically to the console. Additionally, these controllers can function similarly to a computer mouse, offering new gameplay possibilities. A notable addition is the \”C\” button, which activates the GameChat feature, allowing players to communicate with friends during online gaming sessions.

    The Switch 2 also boasts 256GB of internal storage, accommodating a more extensive game library and media. The accompanying dock supports 4K output, enhancing the gaming experience on compatible televisions.

    To provide gamers with a hands-on experience before the official release, Nintendo will host \”Switch 2 Experience\” events in major cities, including Los Angeles, New York, London, and Paris, starting this month. These events will offer an opportunity to explore the new features and capabilities of the Switch 2 firsthand.

  • Preview for Tonight\’s AEW Dynamite Before Dynasty

    Here\’s the preview for tonight\’s AEW Dynamite, broadcasting live from the Peoria Civic Center in Peoria, Illinois at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT on TBS and streaming on Max.

    Tonight marks the go-home show for AEW Dynasty, which takes place this Sunday in Philadelphia. The card features several high-profile matches as tensions build heading into the pay-per-view.

    AEW Dynamite Preview: April 2, 2025

    • Adam Copeland vs. Claudio Castagnoli: With Rated-FTR\’s Trios Championship opportunity at Dynasty looming, Copeland faces a vengeful Claudio who has promised to \”beat the Rated R Superstar to a pulp\”
    • Mixed Tag Team Match: AEW World Champion Jon Moxley teams with Marina Shafir to face #1 contender Swerve Strickland and Willow Nightingale in tornado tag team action
    • Toni Storm vs. Penelope Ford: The AEW Women\’s Champion looks to deal with Megan Bayne\’s ally ahead of her championship defense against \”The Mighty Megasus\” at Dynasty
    • Will Ospreay Returns: The aerial sensation makes his first appearance on AEW programming in weeks, declaring \”Restore the feeling? I AM the feeling!\”
    • Owen Hart Foundation Tournament: The brackets for both the Men\’s and Women\’s tournaments will be unveiled tonight

    This episode sets the stage for AEW Dynasty this Sunday, April 6th at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, where Jon Moxley will defend the AEW World Championship against Swerve Strickland, Toni Storm puts her Women\’s Championship on the line against Megan Bayne, and Rated-FTR will challenge for the AEW World Trios Championships.

    What Happened Last Week?

    Ahead of tonight\’s AEW Dynamite, here\’s a quick recap of last week\’s show:

    • Swerve Strickland called out AEW World Champion Jon Moxley ahead of their title match at Dynasty
    • MJF responded to MVP\’s proposal
    • The Don Callis Family (Takeshita, Fletcher, and Davis) competed in singles matches against Mark Briscoe, Brody King, and Powerhouse Hobbs
    • Toni Storm and Thunder Rosa teamed up against Megan Bayne and Penelope Ford
    • Adam Copeland and Dax Harwood had a sit-down interview with Tony Schiavone to address their issues
  • Ricky Saints Wins NXT Gold, Ethan Page Attacks

    Ricky Saints captured the NXT North American Championship in a hard-fought victory over Shawn Spears during the April 1 episode of WWE NXT on The CW. The win marks Saints’ first title since debuting in WWE earlier this year.

    The match was set following a heated exchange between the two former AEW stars on the March 25 episode. In a competitive main event that showcased both men’s in-ring strengths, Saints overcame Spears to secure the championship.

    Moments after the victory, Ethan Page launched a surprise attack on the new champion. Standing tall over Saints while raising the North American Title, Page signaled himself as the first challenger of the new reign.

    The crowd chanted “Tony fumbled” throughout the match—a pointed reference to AEW President Tony Khan. The phrase has become a fan-favorite chant when former AEW talents find greater success elsewhere, suggesting that Khan failed to fully utilize their potential before they departed.

  • \’They Wrestle My Style\’: Bret Hart Reflects on His Lasting Legacy

    WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart offered a candid, self-aware take on his own legacy during his appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani.

    In response to Hulk Hogan’s recent remarks questioning Hart’s self-confidence, the “Hitman” didn’t push back—instead, he subtly embraced the critique while highlighting a deeper truth.

    “I heard something a few months ago where Hulk Hogan was talking about me,” Hart said. “He said the problem with Bret Hart is that he doesn\’t think he was the greatest wrestler of all time. And I remember thinking about that and going, yeah, maybe… that might be the most truthful thing he\’s ever said.”

    But rather than comparing careers in terms of charisma or mainstream fame, Hart pointed to his technical wrestling style—and how it continues to shape the next generation of talent.

    “You don\’t see anybody imitating Hulk Hogan or Ultimate Warrior,” Hart said. “You see a lot of the wrestlers today really trying their best to capture my style—or some of the guys I worked with, like Dynamite Kid, Kurt Hennig, and my brother Owen.

    That’s the biggest compliment I can get from today’s generation.”

    As WWE honors Hart and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin with the inaugural Immortal Moment award for their iconic WrestleMania 13 match, it’s clear his influence runs deeper than catchphrases or theatrics. It’s in the craft—and the countless wrestlers who’ve studied his every move.

    WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony

    When: Friday, April 18 at 8 PM PT (following SmackDown)
    Where: BleauLive Theater, Fontainebleau Las Vegas
    Inductees: Paul “Triple H” Levesque, Michelle McCool, Lex Luger, the Natural Disasters. WWE’s first Immortal Moment will go to Bret Hart Vs. ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13.

  • Tyler Bate Returns on WWE Raw, New Catch Republic Reunites

    Tyler Bate made his long-awaited return to WWE Raw tonight at London\’s O2 Arena, reuniting with Pete Dunne to reform the New Catch Republic. The duo surprised the UK crowd as the mystery opponents for The New Day.

    This marks Bate\’s first in-ring appearance since July 2024, when he suffered a torn pectoral muscle during a tag match with Pete Dunne against Hank & Tank on WWE NXT. The injury required surgery and kept the 27-year-old sidelined for nearly eight months.

    Bate, the inaugural WWE United Kingdom Champion and former NXT Tag Team Champion, was medically cleared for return in February 2025. While initial reports suggested he might return on the February 24 edition of Raw, fans had to wait until tonight\’s show in London for his comeback.

    The New Catch Republic, which debuted on SmackDown\’s New Year\’s Revolution episode in January 2024, had been building momentum before Bate\’s injury. The team had challenged for tag team gold at both WrestleMania XL and Elimination Chamber prior to Bate being sidelined. WWE trademarked the team name in February 2024.

  • Netflix to Host WaleMania X During WrestleMania Week in Las Vegas

    Netflix will present WaleMania X on April 17 at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas, aligning with WrestleMania week festivities. The event will include special guest appearances, a live edition of The Masked Man Show, and a performance by Grammy-nominated rapper Wale.

    Currently the U.S. streaming home for WWE Raw and WWE programming internationally, Netflix shared the announcement via social media, highlighting the event as one of the weekend\’s major attractions. Wale also acknowledged the event online with a simple post: \”Viva Las Vegas.\”

  • John Cena Advocates for Sun Protection After Skin Cancer Diagnosis

    WWE star and actor John Cena has become an unlikely advocate for sun protection after being diagnosed with skin cancer. Growing up in a coastal Massachusetts town in the 1970s, Cena admits he never used sunscreen as a child, and this habit continued into adulthood despite moving to Florida.

    His wake-up call came when dermatologists discovered and removed cancerous spots on his right pectoral and near his right shoulder. In an exclusive interview with People, Cena shared his own experience in hopes of inspiring others to protect their skin on a daily basis.

    \”I\’m so grateful to be able to dodge those two bullets,\” Cena shared, adding that he now wears his scars \”as a reminder… you need to take the extra few seconds to protect yourself every day.\”

    John Cena partners with Neutrogena

    Cena has partnered with Neutrogena for their Ultra Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70 campaign, cleverly playing on his wrestling catchphrase \”You Can\’t See Me\” while highlighting that quality sunscreen can be invisible on skin. The campaign blends humor with education alongside dermatologist Dr. Neera Nathan.

    Now a dedicated sunscreen user, Cena emphasizes that sun protection isn\’t about vanity: \”It\’s something you should exercise to allow you to be who you are for a longer period of time.\”

    Though an unexpected spokesperson for skincare, Cena embraces his new advocacy role, noting, \”You never know who you\’re going to reach.\”

  • Jake Paul Rules Out Wrestling for WWE, But Would Manage His Brother \’Paul Heyman Style\’

    Jake Paul isn’t planning a leap into the WWE ring anytime soon, despite his brother Logan Paul’s growing success in the company.

    In a recent interview with Newsweek, Paul revealed he’s more comfortable taking on a supporting role than competing himself.

    “I would be down to be Logan’s manager, Paul Heyman-style in WWE,” Jake said. “But I don’t think my body is cut out for the athleticism and the madness that the WWE takes.”

    While he’s made a few appearances during major WWE events like Crown Jewel, Jake sees himself more as a ringside figure than an in-ring performer. This is a departure from what he\’s previously said about a potential WWE career, and has expressed interest in getting in the ring on several occasions.

    Shifting focus, Paul also highlighted his continued interest in mixed martial arts.

    “I definitely want to do MMA. Nate Diaz, still to this day, has not accepted the $15 million deal that we have for him,” he said. “For me in MMA, it’s just about finding the right opponent.”

    Though not ruling out further WWE involvement entirely, Jake Paul appears firmly focused on his fighting career outside the squared circle—for now.

  • Carmella Defends Corey Graves: \’One Of, If Not The Best Commentator in WWE\’

    Former WWE star Carmella is standing by her husband Corey Graves following his recent frustration over being moved to NXT commentary—a move that led to now-deleted tweets and widespread online reactions.

    When asked about the topic in a new interview with New York Post Sports, Carmella defended Graves as \”an incredible talent\” and emphasized her full support.

    \”I feel like he\’s such an incredible talent. He has so much passion and so much love for this business, and I will always have his back. I feel like he deserves everything,\” she said.

    Carmella continued, praising Graves as one of WWE\’s top commentators.

    \”He\’s one of, if not the best, commentator WWE has—maybe other than Michael Cole,\” she added. \”He\’s just incredible, and I support him no matter what.\”

    Industry Colleagues React

    Graves\’ commentary shift prompted several wrestling broadcasters, many former colleagues, to weigh in on the situation.

    WWE Hall of Famer Booker T didn\’t mince words about his feelings toward Graves\’ public reaction. \”We\’re not cool, not cool at all—I didn\’t like the tweet. I didn\’t tell him I didn\’t like it, but I\’m sure there perhaps will come a time when I might say it,\” Booker stated.

    Despite the controversy, longtime WWE announcer Michael Cole expressed hope for Graves\’ WWE future while acknowledging his talents. \”He\’s an unbelievable commentator,\” Cole said. \”I hope he stays with us, because he\’s one of the best.\”

    Wrestling commentary legend Jim Ross supported WWE\’s decision, suggesting that Pat McAfee\’s broader appeal justified the move. \”Would you trade Pat McAfee and his massive broadcast platform for Corey Graves? I wouldn\’t, to be honest,\” Ross remarked.

    Former WWE commentator Jonathan Coachman offered perspective based on his own experiences, noting that such changes are commonplace in wrestling broadcasting. Coachman emphasized that many top commentators, including Jim Ross and Michael Cole, have experienced similar role adjustments throughout their careers, and encouraged Graves to embrace whatever position he\’s given in the company.

  • Carmella Would Return \’Home\’ to WWE: \’I Don\’t Wanna be a Hypocrite.\’

    Former SmackDown Women\’s Champion Carmella has confirmed that her WWE contract has officially expired after 12 years with the company. In a recent interview with New York Post Sports, she expressed openness to a potential return despite previous statements about feeling \”ghosted\” by WWE.

    \”So I\’m not like a never-say-never person. To me, I do feel such loyalty to WWE. I loved my time working there,\” she said.

    \”If I ever went back, I would hope it would be for WWE. I would wanna go back as Carmella and moonwalk my way out there and be in a WWE ring.

    I do feel like that would be my home, but I\’m not gonna say never, right? Who knows what the future holds. I don\’t wanna become a hypocrite.\”

    Visit NY Post Sports for the full interview.

    Feeling Ghosted

    This marks a notable shift from comments she made earlier this month on Kail Lowry\’s Barely Famous podcast, where she expressed frustration with how WWE treated her after becoming a mother.

    \”Why would you want to be somewhere that doesn\’t want you?\” Carmella said on the podcast. \”It\’s like you\’re in a relationship and someone is trying to break up with you. \’No, don\’t leave me. I promise.\’ No, you\’re not wanted in that relationship. It\’s not for me, and I truly feel that door is closed.\”

    She added that she\’s not trying to bury the company but wants to be honest about how women—especially mothers—are still treated in wrestling.

    \”I feel like I\’m being punished because I had a baby,\” she said. \”I wouldn\’t change a damn thing. I\’m obsessed with my son… but it\’s just the reality of the situation.\”

    The 37-year-old wrestler gave birth to her first child with WWE commentator Corey Graves in November 2023 and hasn\’t competed since March of that year.

    During her WWE career, she accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments including holding the SmackDown Women\’s Title, Women\’s Tag Team Championships with Zelina Vega, and four reigns as 24/7 Champion. She also made history as the first-ever Women\’s Money in the Bank winner and won the Mixed Match Challenge alongside R-Truth.

  • WWE Superstars Coming to \’Clash of Clans\’ Mobile Game in April 2025

    WWE and Supercell have launched a new partnership that will bring top WWE Superstars into Clash of Clans for a limited-time crossover beginning April 1 and running through the month.

    The collaboration includes in-game appearances and themed content, leading to a special match integration at WrestleMania 41 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

    Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes headlines the crossover, reimagined as the \”Barbarian King\” character.

    A long-time player under the alias \”OverlordRhodes,\” Rhodes also features in the game\’s live-action promotional video, embodying a strategy focused on domination and conquest.

    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/03/\"WWE

    Other WWE stars receive similar in-game transformations, including:

    • Rhea Ripley as “Archer Queen”
    • The Undertaker as “Grand Warden”
    • Bianca Belair as “Royal Champion”
    • Rey Mysterio as “Minion Prince”
    • Kane as “P.E.K.K.A”
    • Becky Lynch as “Valkyrie”
    • Jey Uso as “Thrower”

    Starting April 1, players will experience a variety of WWE-themed gameplay additions, such as exclusive environments, cosmetics, and interactive Easter Eggs. The event also includes WWE-inspired challenges and content accessible to millions of players globally.

    “This isn’t about playing fair in the ring, it’s about ruling the battlefield,” said Rhodes. “Villages will fall, and any opposition will be crushed under my command.”

    Supercell emphasized the scale of the collaboration, noting its unprecedented scope both in-game and at WrestleMania. “This partnership is on a scale we’ve never created before,” said Sara Bach, Head of Live Games at Supercell.

    Fans can follow Clash of Clans on social media for ongoing updates throughout the event.

  • Raw Preview: IYO vs Ripley, Cody & Cena Faceoff at London\’s O2

    Here’s the preview for tonight’s WWE Raw, broadcasting live on Netflix at 3 PM ET/12 PM PT from the O2 Arena in London, England.

    With WrestleMania 41 just days away, tonight’s Raw promises major developments. Cody Rhodes and John Cena will meet face-to-face for the third consecutive week, as Cena continues his shocking heel turn and vows to \”destroy wrestling\” by retiring as champion. Meanwhile, Logan Paul is expected to escalate his feud with AJ Styles, likely setting up a WrestleMania showdown.

    The main event will feature IYO SKY defending her Women’s World Championship against Rhea Ripley, with Bianca Belair serving as the Special Guest Referee. This high-stakes match could determine the landscape of WrestleMania 41’s women’s title picture.

    WWE Raw Preview: March 31, 2025

    • IYO SKY (c) vs. Rhea Ripley – Women’s World Championship Match with Special Guest Referee Bianca Belair
    • Cody Rhodes and John Cena – Face-to-face confrontation ahead of their WrestleMania 41 clash
    • Jimmy Uso vs. Gunther – Non-title match
    • Logan Paul calls out AJ Styles
    • Bron Breakker & Penta vs. The Judgment Day (Finn Balor & Dominik Mysterio) – Tag Team Match
    • The New Day in action

    Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest WWE news on the road to WrestleMania 41.

    What Happened Last Week?

    Last week’s Raw saw Cody Rhodes confront John Cena in a heated exchange, The Usos reunite in tag team action, and Bron Breakker win the Intercontinental Championship despite interference from The Judgment Day.

  • Cole Radrick Knee Injury: Torn ACL, Surgery Thursday

    Independent wrestler Cole Radrick has sustained significant knee injuries, including a torn ACL and a torn bucket-handle meniscus, which are expected to sideline him for approximately six to nine months. He is scheduled to undergo surgery on Thursday.?

    The injury occurred during the GCW No Compadre event, where Radrick teamed with Alec Price to defend the GCW Tag Team Titles in a four-way match. Midway through the contest, Radrick was assisted to the back due to the injury.?

    Expressing his disappointment, Radrick tweeted, \”so, yeah. heartbroken. i\’ll see you next time.\” 

    He also informed fans about his upcoming surgery, stating, \”Surgery Thursday. Rock and Roll.\”?

  • Saraya Confirms Her Wrestling Career Isn\’t Over

    Earlier this week, Saraya announced her departure from All Elite Wrestling (AEW), marking the end of her two-and-a-half-year tenure with the company. The run culminated with Saraya winning the AEW Women’s World Championship at AEW All In 2023 in front of her hometown crowd at Wembley Stadium.

    Reflecting on her exit during an interview on Busted Open Radio, Saraya shared insights into her decision to leave AEW and her overall experience.

    \”When I came into AEW, the thing that I wanted to do was just help build stuff. I didn’t want to be the top dog or the face or anything—that’s not what I wanted,” she explained. “What I wanted to do was put girls over, if that helped them in any way. That’s all I wanted to do. And I feel like I was coming to the end of that. There wasn’t very much left I could do. I don’t think there was a place for me anymore in there.\”

    Saraya also expressed gratitude for AEW owner Tony Khan’s support throughout her time with the company.

    \”Tony was so amazing with it. It was mutual. He was really great; he’s been so supportive since I asked for time off in November. I’ve been gone for a minute, and I was like, well, there’s really no place for me anymore, so we came to that decision. I’m happy about it. He wished me luck with everything, and the door’s always open.\”

    Despite stepping away from AEW, Saraya emphasized that she cherished her time working with talented women such as Toni Storm, Ruby Soho, and Harley Cameron:

    \”I’m really happy that I got the stories that I got because I got to hang with wonderful women… Even if not everyone was happy with the way storylines were or how I was portrayed, I had a great time behind the scenes\”.

    She also acknowledged occasional frustrations with certain creative directions but maintained that she enjoyed herself overall: \”Even sometimes maybe I was like, oh, I wish we could be doing XYZ, but I was having a great time behind the scenes\”.

    Looking ahead, Saraya plans to focus on several outside projects, including her new podcast Rulebreakers, her memoir Hell in Boots, and an upcoming acting role. While she is stepping away from wrestling for now, she assured fans that this is not the end of her career:

    \”This isn’t the end of my wrestling career… Maybe I’ll do something later on down the line that everyone will be proud of and want to love\”

  • \’I Was Shocked\’: Hulk Hogan Reacts to John Cena\’s Heel Turn

    Hulk Hogan is weighing in on the most buzzed-about topic in WWE: John Cena’s heel turn. Cena\’s turn was one of the shocking moments in wrestling history, right up there with Hogan being revealed as Kevin Nash and Scott Hall\’s \”third man\” in the formation of the New World Order back in 1996.

    Speaking with Scott Johnson on Going Ringside and News4JAX, Hogan shared his genuine surprise at Cena’s new direction and offered a personal comparison to his own notorious transformation into “Hollywood Hogan” during the NWO era.

    “John Cena is a great wrestler… he’s my favorite wrestler without a doubt,” Hogan said. “I was shocked. I never thought John would turn into a bad guy.”

    While Hogan embraced the shift as part of wrestling’s ever-evolving storytelling, he pointed out a key difference in crowd reaction.

    “The fans are booing him out of the building,” Hogan observed. “The difference is, when I turned into a bad guy, the fans were cheering me more than ever. So it was a little crazy.”

    WWE fans have long speculated whether Cena—known for his squeaky-clean image and massive youth following—would ever take a darker turn. The recent shift has sparked both shock and admiration from fans and insiders alike.

    Hogan’s comments also provide context for how heel turns function differently across eras. In the \’90s, Hogan’s villain arc revitalized his career and helped usher in WWE’s Attitude Era. Whether Cena’s pivot will leave a similar legacy remains to be seen.

    “It’s a great storyline,” Hogan said. “I like to see where this goes and how long he’s going to run with it.”

  • Miss Elizabeth Exhibit Launches in Frankfort, KY on March 31

    A new exhibit celebrating the life and legacy of Miss Elizabeth, one of professional wrestling’s most iconic figures, will open at the Capital City Museum in Frankfort, Kentucky, on March 31, 2025.

    Dubbed “The Lovely Miss Elizabeth” and widely regarded as “The First Lady of Wrestling,” she left a lasting impact on sports entertainment through her memorable presence in the ring and on television screens throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

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    The Capital City Museum’s exhibit is set to run for two years, offering fans and visitors an opportunity to explore her career and cultural influence. Admission is free, and the exhibit will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    Located at 325 Ann Street in downtown Frankfort, the museum invites fans of wrestling history and local heritage to experience this tribute to a legendary figure who helped define a generation in wrestling entertainment.

  • Sting ‘2025 or Never’ Appearance Tour Schedule: Dates, Locations

    Wrestling legend Sting has revealed the full lineup for his “2025 or Never” farewell appearance tour. Following his in-ring retirement, he’s now stepping away from the autograph circuit as well.

    Fans are hopeful he’ll make one final appearance at the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame to induct his longtime friend and rival, Lex Luger. Based on his schedule below, it seems possible.

    • April 5 – Astronomicon, Ypsilanti, MI

    • April 6 – SC Comic Con, Greenville, SC

    • April 27 – Huntsville Expo, Huntsville, AL

    • May 3 – Heart of Texas Comic Con, Waco, TX

    • May 4 – Pandora’s Box, Lafayette, NJ

    • May 24 – GalaxyCon OKC, Oklahoma City, OK

    • April 19–20 – WrestleCon, Las Vegas, NV

    • May 31 – Arizona Collectors Expo, Phoenix, AZ

    • June 28 – WrestleVerse Fest, Kansas City, MO

    • July 25 – Big Time Wrestling, Charlotte, NC

    • August 2 – WrestleCon, East Rutherford, NJ

    • August 9 – Madison Comic Expo, Madison, WI

    • August 15 – Monster-Mania Con, Cherry Hill, NJ

    • August 30 – WrestleVerse Fest, Chattanooga, TN

    • September 13 – HorrorHound Weekend, Cincinnati, OH

    • September 20 – Houston Celebrity Comic Con, Houston, TX

    • October 4 – Spookala, Tampa, FL

    • October 11 – Comic Con Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland

    • November 8 – Twin Cities Con, Minneapolis, MN

    • November 9 – Rhode Island Comic Con, Providence, RI

    • December 20 – WrestleVerse Fest, Pittsburgh, PA

  • Brian Cage\’s Knee Injury Altered AEW Dynasty Tag Title Match Plans

    AEW wrestler Brian Cage sustained a knee injury during an independent match against Chris Masters on March 20 in Los Angeles. 

    This injury has led to changes in the AEW World Tag Team Championship match at the upcoming Dynasty event, according to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Originally, Cage and his tag team partner Lance Archer, collectively known as the Murder Machines, were scheduled to challenge The Hurt Syndicate—Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin—for the titles. 

    Due to Cage\’s injury, AEW has announced that Big Bill and Bryan Keith will replace the Murder Machines as the challengers for the championship.

    Despite this setback, Cage remains committed to AEW. He has expressed his satisfaction with the promotion and confirmed his long-term contract, indicating his dedication to returning to the ring once recovered. 

    Prior to his injury, Cage was also scheduled to face notable opponents like Will Ospreay on AEW Dynamite.