Jon Moxley once again proved his unwavering dedication to AEW, enduring an 11-hour drive through a severe blizzard to defend his AEW World Championship against Cope in a brutal Street Fight on AEW Dynamite. The match, which took place in Omaha, Nebraska, was as chaotic as Moxley’s journey, featuring weapons, surprise run-ins, and a dramatic finish.
Moxley Battles Through Blizzard Nyla to Make AEW Dynamite
The central United States has been hammered by Winter Storm Nyla, with blizzard warnings spanning from Colorado to Minnesota. Nebraska, where Dynamite took place, saw treacherous travel conditions, including wind gusts of 50-70 mph and over a foot of snow in some areas. Despite the dangerous weather, Moxley made the grueling trip to ensure he was in the ring for his scheduled title defense.
Mayhem Unfolds in AEW World Title Street Fight
The no-holds-barred showdown between Moxley and Cope delivered a wild brawl that spilled throughout the arena. The two competitors fought in the backstage area, down hallways, and even into the crowd, using a variety of weapons, including a guitar, a trash can, and a kendo stick.
Cope took control at points, delivering a suplex on the floor and hammering Moxley with the remnants of the LED board. The match escalated when Cope attempted to put Moxley through the announce table, only for Moxley to counter with a devastating Paradigm Shift.
Chaos and Interference Define the Final Moments
As the fight continued, Cope introduced a spike into the match, driving it into Moxley’s back. Just as Cope seemed poised for victory, Wheeler Yuta intervened, setting off a chain reaction of outside interference. Claudio Castagnoli and PAC joined in on Moxley’s behalf, but FTR arrived to even the odds. Cope managed to rally, delivering a spear through a table, but interference continued as Marina Shafir attacked Cope, only to be neutralized by Willow Nightingale.
The bout finally ended when Nick Wayne hit his Wayne’s World finisher on Cope, allowing Moxley to lock in a chokehold. Cope fought but ultimately passed out, giving Moxley the victory and keeping the AEW World Championship around his waist.
WWE Superstar Bianca Belair has taken to social media to document her ongoing tattoo removal process, sharing the painful experience with her followers. In candid posts on her Instagram story, Belair revealed she\’s removing a tattoo featuring cupcakes and stars that she got during her college years.
\”Tattoo removals hurt worse. Than getting a tattoo. I regret ever getting this stupid tattoo,\” Belair wrote in her post. She humorously added, \”I don\’t even like cupcakes or stars… I hate you 3am Houston Texas tattoo parlor lol. Young and dumb in college.\”
In a follow-up post, Belair confessed that this was actually her second removal session, but with an unexpected timeline.
\”This is my 2nd session. Youre suppose to do them 7 weeks apart…. I did my 1st session 1.5 years ago and it hurt so bad that I never came back until now ?\”
The revelation that Belair waited a year and a half between sessions—despite the recommended seven-week interval—highlights just how painful the removal process has been for the wrestling star.
Bianca Belair, whose real name is Bianca Blair Crawford, has come a long way since her college days. Before becoming a WWE superstar, she was a track and field athlete at the University of Tennessee, where she was an All-SEC and All-American in the hurdles. This suggests her time in Houston, where she got the regrettable tattoo, may have been during a competition or visit during her collegiate athletic career.
Since joining WWE in 2016, Belair has become one of the company\’s most prominent stars. She has held both the Raw and SmackDown Women\’s Championships and made history alongside Sasha Banks as the first Black women to main event WrestleMania.
The top stories in professional wrestling for March 19, 2025 include Alberto El Patron receiving a six-month wrestling ban after attacking a fan in Mexico, WWE unveiling its massive \”Road to Clash in Paris\” tour across Europe this summer, the cancelation of Alexa Bliss\’ appearances at WWE World Las Vegas and more.
WWE Announces Major European Tour Ahead of Clash in Paris
WWE has unveiled an extensive European tour leading up to their first-ever Premium Live Event in Paris on August 31, 2025. The \”Road to Clash in Paris\” tour will span the UK, Ireland, and France, featuring stops in Dublin, Liverpool, Newcastle, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Cardiff, and Lyon.
Notably, Dublin will host its first televised SmackDown in 12 years, while Birmingham welcomes back Monday Night Raw after a similar hiatus. This tour marks a significant expansion of WWE\’s presence in Europe, offering fans across multiple countries the opportunity to experience live WWE action.
John Cena\’s Heel Turn Fallout
John Cena\’s recent heel turn has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, with his first appearance as a villain in Brussels eliciting an explosive reaction from the European crowd. The unexpected character shift has had ripple effects on WWE programming, including a last-minute change to the Austin Theory vs. Jey Uso match timing on Raw.
Cena\’s transformation is building significant momentum heading into WrestleMania 41, where he is set to face Cody Rhodes in a highly anticipated showdown. This dramatic shift for one of WWE\’s most iconic faces is reshaping storylines and fan expectations.
Alberto Del Rio Suspended From Wrestling After Fan Attack
Former WWE star Alberto Del Rio has been handed a six-month suspension from wrestling in Tijuana following a disturbing incident at a recent event. Del Rio allegedly threw a chair into the crowd after spectators hurled coins at him, resulting in an elderly woman being injured and requiring hospitalization. The Tijuana Wrestling Commission issued an official statement confirming the suspension, effective immediately. This incident raises concerns about wrestler-fan interactions and safety protocols at live events.
AEW Dynamite in Omaha Tonight Despite Blizzard
AEW Dynamite is set to proceed as scheduled in Omaha, Nebraska, tonight, despite severe weather conditions dubbed \”Winter Storm Nyla\”. The event, taking place at the Liberty First Credit Union Arena, will feature Jon Moxley defending the AEW World Championship against Cope in a Street Fight, as well as a four-way International Championship Eliminator match. AEW President Tony Khan confirmed via Twitter that all advertised wrestlers have safely arrived in Omaha, demonstrating the company\’s commitment to delivering live events even under challenging circumstances.
WWE\’s \”Roast of WrestleMania\” Announced
WWE has announced a new addition to the WrestleMania 41 weekend lineup: \”The Roast of WrestleMania\” featuring Tony Hinchcliffe. This closed-door, non-televised event will take place on April 20, 2025, at the BleauLive Theater in Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The roast will feature WWE Superstars Sami Zayn, The Miz, Braun Strowman, and Paul Heyman, among others. This unique event showcases WWE\’s willingness to explore new entertainment formats and provide diverse experiences for fans during their biggest weekend of the year.
Alexa Bliss Pulled From WrestleMania 41 Weekend Appearances
In an unexpected turn of events, Alexa Bliss has been removed from her scheduled appearances during WrestleMania 41 weekend. No official reason has been provided for her withdrawal, leading to speculation about her potential involvement with the Wyatt Sicks faction. Bliss\’s status for WrestleMania 41 itself remains unclear, leaving fans and analysts to wonder about her future role in WWE storylines. This development adds an element of mystery to the WrestleMania build-up and raises questions about Bliss\’s current standing in the company.
WWE NXT \”Darkstate\” Faction Revealed
NXT has introduced a new faction called \”Darkstate,\” consisting of Saquon Shugars, Cutler James, Keanu Carver, and Dion Lennox. The group made their presence known by attacking Tony D\’Angelo backstage and later delivering their mission statement on air. Darkstate\’s emergence has drawn comparisons to the former RETRIBUTION faction, sparking interest in how this new stable will impact NXT\’s storylines and talent development. Their introduction adds a fresh dynamic to NXT\’s roster and creates potential for intriguing feuds.
Tony Khan Addresses Mystery Attack, Teases Women\’s Star Return
Kurt Angle Grateful for Fans Dropping \”Perc Angle\” Nickname
WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has expressed gratitude to fans for discontinuing the use of the \”Perc Angle\” nickname, which referenced his past struggles with addiction. Fans have instead adopted the moniker \”Peak Angle,\” showing respect for Angle\’s recovery journey. This shift demonstrates an evolving attitude within the wrestling community towards addressing addiction and mental health issues, reflecting a more supportive and understanding fan culture.
Dragon Lee Successfully Defends WWE Speed Title
Dragon Lee successfully defended his WWE Speed Championship against Ivar on today’s episode of WWE Speed. The match, filmed earlier this month in Philadelphia, showcased a classic clash of power versus agility.
Despite Ivar’s size and strength advantage, Lee managed to reverse a Death Valley Driver attempt into a crucifix pin to secure the victory. The match lasted just over three minutes, adhering to the show’s fast-paced format that has become a fan favorite for its quick and action-packed storytelling.
This marks Dragon Lee’s second successful title defense since winning the championship in November 2024, following a previous victory over Chad Gable. After the match, Ivar showed sportsmanship by shaking Lee’s hand despite the loss. WWE Speed continues to highlight cross-brand talent and innovative three-minute matches, solidifying its place as a unique offering in WWE’s programming lineup.
WWE superstar Karrion Kross is stepping into the world of film as an executive producer for Blue Evening, an independent drama set to premiere at the Pasadena International Film Festival on April 8. The screening will take place at the Laemmle NoHo 7 Theater, with tickets becoming available on March 21.
Written and directed by Jett Jansen, Blue Evening tells the story of a homeless addict in Los Angeles who stumbles upon a lost masterpiece in a thrift store. This discovery sets him on a desperate journey of redemption, survival, and self-discovery as he faces a pivotal choice between his destructive past and an uncertain future.
We are thrilled to announce, as an Official Selection, BLUE EVENING will have its World Premier @PasFilmFest this April 8th. This years screening will be held at the Laemmle Noho 7 Theater in the 8:05pm Block, tickets will be available 3/21 on their website, stay tuned & follow… pic.twitter.com/8FK7xucMHZ
The film stars Gustavo J. Ramirez, alongside Sari Sanchez and Sammy Horowitz. It is produced by Cory DeMeyers, Jett Jansen Fernandez, and Kale Murphy, with Kross—credited under his real name, Kevin Robert Kesar—serving as an executive producer. The cinematography is handled by Deangelo Harding.
Kross, known for his intense presence and captivating promo work in WWE, shared a still from the film, adding to the anticipation surrounding its debut.
AEW isn’t just making waves in the wrestling world—it’s breaking into Hollywood as well. Speaking on The Battleground Podcast, Tony Khan discussed AEW talent’s increasing presence in film and television, including stars like MJF, Samoa Joe, and Toni Storm.
The AEW boss acknowledges the balancing act of letting AEW stars pursue outside opportunities. Despite these commitments, Khan ensured that AEW remained their primary focus.
\”MJF was working on Happy Gilmore 2, and Samoa Joe was filming Twisted Metal… but now, everyone’s back,\” Khan said.
Toni Storm, the current AEW Women’s World Champion, has also expanded her reach with a role in Queen of the Ring. Khan was directly involved in helping Storm land the role, saying,
“Tony Storm is the greatest actress in Hollywood. She’s the AEW Women’s World Champion, and when I think of Hollywood and pro wrestling, they fit like a glove.”
With AEW talent gaining more mainstream exposure, Khan sees this as an opportunity for the company to grow beyond wrestling. “AEW is where the best come to wrestle,” he said, emphasizing that AEW’s stars are becoming crossover entertainers while still delivering in the ring.
With a fully stacked roster, Khan is confident that AEW is set for a major run in 2025.
“If you haven’t watched AEW before or you haven’t watched recently, now’s a great time to come in,” he added. With AEW Dynasty on the horizon, the company looks poised to continue building on this momentum.
AEW’s women’s division continues to grow, and Tony Khan hinted at some intriguing developments on The Battleground Podcast. One major storyline fans have been speculating about is the return of Camille, who was mysteriously attacked the last time she appeared in AEW.
\”We don’t know who attacked Camille… When she does return, it’ll be interesting to see who she goes after,\” Khan said.
Camille’s absence has left a major question mark in AEW’s women’s division, and her eventual comeback could lead to a major revenge storyline.
Khan also addressed the buzz around newly signed powerhouse Megan Bayne and the possibility of a dream match between her and Camille.
“That would be a great matchup [Megan Bayne vs. Camille], and something to keep an eye on,” he teased.
With stars like Toni Storm, Mercedes Moné, and Willow Nightingale leading the division, AEW’s women’s roster is deeper than ever. If Camille does return, AEW fans could be in for a major shake-up in the division’s hierarchy.
The State of AEW\’s Women\’s Division
The AEW Women\’s Division is in a state of intense competition and high-level performances. The current AEW Women\’s World Champion is \”Timeless\” Toni Storm, who is in her record-setting fourth reign after defeating Mariah May at Grand Slam Australia on February 15.
Storm\’s reign has been marked by her continued evolution as a performer and her ability to deliver classic matches.
The division also boasts other top-tier talents such as Mercedes Mone, who holds multiple championships and has been putting on great performances against challengers like Mina Shirakawa, Harley Cameron, and Momo Watanabe.
The roster depth of the AEW Women\’s Division has grown significantly, with a mix of established stars and promising newcomers.
Top challengers include former champions like Britt Baker, Hikaru Shida, Jamie Hayter, and Thunder Rosa, as well as rising stars such as Mariah May, who had a 174-day reign as champion before losing to Storm.
The division also features talented performers like Riho, Emi Sakura, Athena, Deonna Purrazzo, and Kris Statlander.
Up-and-coming talents such as Willow Nightingale, Julia Hart, and Skye Blue are making waves and adding depth to the division.
With this combination of experienced veterans and emerging stars, the AEW Women\’s Division is poised to continue delivering high-quality matches and compelling storylines throughout 2025.
AEW has recently shifted its TV tapings to smaller, more intimate venues, and according to Tony Khan, this decision has been a game-changer for the fan experience. Speaking on The Battleground Podcast, Khan explained how these venues have recaptured the energy that made AEW stand out in its early days.
\”We\’ve been able to capture the spirit of places like Daily’s Place in venues like the Hammerstein Ballroom and Fenway Music Hall,\” Khan said, referencing AEW’s frequent home during the pandemic era.
While AEW has continued to run major arenas for its pay-per-views—such as Crypto.com Arena for Revolution—Khan sees these smaller spaces as the perfect setting for AEW’s weekly TV.
\”For pay-per-views, packing in 10,000 to 12,000 fans is great, but for TV, these theaters and amphitheaters bring a different kind of energy,\” he explained.
AEW has recently held events in Cincinnati’s Andrew Brady Theater and the Virgin Theater in Las Vegas, with more unique venues planned for the future.
This shift has been well-received by fans, with the packed, energetic crowds giving AEW’s TV product a fresh new feel. With AEW Dynasty and more marquee events on the horizon, Khan seems intent on balancing large-scale spectacle with the raw, intimate atmosphere that helped AEW build its passionate fanbase.
WWE RAW has been the flagship program of the company for many years, now airing live every Monday night at 8 p.m. ET on Netflix. The weekly show continues its tradition of traveling to different arenas every week, bringing the live WWE experience to fans worldwide. If you\’re able to make it to a live RAW event, then it is absolutely worth doing, as nothing compares to being at a pro wrestling show live.
Here is a detailed WWE RAW live schedule through June 2025, including the newly announced \”Road to Clash in Paris\” tour dates:
March 2025
March 24, 2025: Glasgow, Scotland – OVO Hydro
March 31, 2025: London, England – O2 Arena
April 2025
April 14, 2025: Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center
April 28, 2025: Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center
May 2025
May 12, 2025: Louisville, KY – KFC Yum Center
May 19, 2025: Greenville, SC – Bon Secours Wellness Arena
June 2025
June 2, 2025: Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
June 16, 2025: Green Bay, WI – Resch Center
June 23, 2025: Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena
June 30, 2025: Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena
August/September 2025 – Road to Clash in Paris Tour
WWE has announced an exciting European tour leading up to the Clash in Paris premium live event on August 31. The Raw episodes included in this tour are:
August 25, 2025: Birmingham, UK – BP Pulse Live (first Raw broadcast from Birmingham in 12 years)
September 1, 2025: Paris, France – Paris La Défense Arena (following the Clash in Paris premium live event)
This European tour also includes additional SmackDown episodes and live events across cities in Ireland, the UK, and France, creating WWE\’s most comprehensive European tour in recent years.
WWE SmackDown is one of professional wrestling\’s most iconic weekly television shows, airing live every Friday night on USA Network. The program expanded to a three-hour format in January 2025, continuing to deliver high-stakes wrestling entertainment to fans across North America and internationally on Netflix.
As the WWE continues its 2025 schedule, SmackDown is currently in the midst of an exciting European tour, with upcoming shows in Bologna and London. Following its return to the United States in April, the blue brand will bring live action to fans across various cities throughout spring and summer 2025, culminating in another major European tour for the \”Road to Clash in Paris\” in August.
This list has been updated as of March 19, 2025
Upcoming SmackDown Shows
Here is a detailed WWE SmackDown live schedule through June 2025:
March 2025
Mar 21: Bologna, Italy – Unipol Arena
Mar 28: London, UK – The O2
April 2025
Apr 4: Chicago, IL – Allstate Arena
Apr 18: Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena (WrestleMania Week)
May 2025
May 16: Greensboro, NC – First Horizon Coliseum
May 23: Savannah, GA – EnMarket Arena
May 30: Knoxville, TN – Thompson Boling Arena
June 2025
June 13: Lexington, KY – Rupp Arena
June 20: Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena
After WrestleMania 41, fans should mark their calendars for WWE\’s major summer events, including WWE Saturday Night\’s Main Event XXXIX on May 24 in Tampa, WWE NXT Battleground on May 25, and the two-night WWE SummerSlam on August 2-3 at MetLife Stadium.
August 2025 – Road to Clash in Paris Tour
WWE has announced an exciting European tour leading up to the Clash in Paris premium live event on August 31. The tour includes these SmackDown dates:
August 22: Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
August 29: Lyon, France – LDLC Arena
This marks WWE\’s most comprehensive European tour in recent years, with Raw episodes also scheduled for August 25 in Birmingham, UK at BP Pulse Live and September 1 in Paris, France following the premium live event.
\’Speedball\’ Mike Bailey has made an immediate impact in AEW. The high-flying star stunned fans with his debut on the March 12 episode of AEW Dynamite, where he faced The Beast Mortos. Now, he’s set for a high-stakes match on March 19, competing against Ricochet, Mark Davis, and Orange Cassidy for a shot at Kenny Omega’s AEW International Championship at AEW Dynasty.
In a recent interview with Chris Mueller for Bleacher Report, Bailey reflected on signing with AEW, calling it a necessary next step in his career.
\”I think my biggest accomplishment in pro wrestling, and in life to be honest, is making every single year better than the last.\”
The highly-skilled martial arts practitioner says he felt the need to step up his level of competition, and wanted to test himself \’Where the Best Wrestle.\’
\”It was time for me to step up and make it to the big leagues, and AEW is where the best wrestle, and in my opinion, it\’s where I belong.\”
Bailey, who previously aimed to wrestle in as many promotions as possible, now sees AEW as his primary home. However, he remains open to representing the company in NJPW and CMLL.
\”Obviously, right now, AEW is my focus. It\’s where I want to be, it\’s where I want to wrestle, but wrestling for New Japan and CMLL and going to those places to represent AEW would be a huge honor.\”
Bailey has long been chasing a match with Omega, a goal he has pursued for over a decade. With a win on March 19, he’ll finally have his chance.
On his 83 Weeks podcast, former WCW president Eric Bischoff shared his thoughts on John Cena’s long-awaited heel turn, calling it “beautiful” and praising its execution. However, he also laid out his own vision for how he would have handled Cena’s transformation, opting for a slower, more mysterious approach.
Bischoff admired the cinematic quality of the turn, describing it as “theatrically done” with a strong focus on subtlety, body language, and nuance. “Good television is nothing more or less than the artful use of little details,” he explained, emphasizing how Cena’s shift was built on carefully crafted moments rather than a single shock factor.
While WWE chose to have Cena debut his new persona in an aggressive and defiant manner on RAW, Bischoff suggested an alternative strategy.
“I’d lean into ‘less is more,’ at least initially,” he said. “Make it mysterious. Don’t be definitive. Don’t come out in week one and tell me why—you’ve already planted the hook, so leave it in as long as you can.”
Despite his personal take, Bischoff acknowledged that Cena’s turn was a major moment in wrestling history, something fans had clamored for over two decades. He noted that with Cody Rhodes stepping into the role of WWE’s top babyface, the timing was right for Cena to finally embrace his darker side—especially if this is truly his final year in the ring.
Another key factor in Cena’s turn is his alliance with The Rock, creating an intimidating duo that could reshape WWE’s landscape. Bischoff compared the moment to Hulk Hogan’s infamous heel turn in 1996 but highlighted one major difference—the involvement of mainstream celebrities. The presence of music star Travis Scott, who was featured alongside The Rock and Cena, added another layer of intrigue and unpredictability to the storyline.
As Cena prepares to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 41, the question remains: Is Rhodes walking into a two-on-one fight? With The Rock backing Cena and Rhodes’ allies preoccupied, the odds could be stacked against the champion.
Triple H has added another accolade to his storied career. The WWE Chief Content Officer was recently honored with the Full Sail University Industry Icon Award in Orlando, Florida, recognizing his contributions to NXT during its time at Full Sail Arena.
For nearly a decade, Full Sail served as the home of WWE NXT, hosting the brand from 2012 until the COVID-19 pandemic led to a move to the WWE Performance Center. Under Triple H’s leadership, NXT became a critically acclaimed brand, helping launch some of WWE’s top superstars.
Reflecting on the honor, Triple H shared his gratitude on social media, writing:
\”Last week I was honored to receive the @FullSail Industry Icon Award. Full Sail gave #WWENXT a home and helped us create industry-defining moments. Will always be proud of our connection. Thank you to President Garry Jones and congratulations to all this year’s honorees.\”
From shaping NXT to now leading WWE’s creative direction, Triple H’s impact on the industry continues to grow.
Last week I was honored to receive the @FullSail Industry Icon Award. Full Sail gave #WWENXT a home and helped us create industry-defining moments. Will always be proud of our connection. Thank you to President Garry Jones and congratulations to all this year’s honorees. pic.twitter.com/Ny9NKA5Esf
WWE is adding a comedic twist to WrestleMania 41 weekend with The Roast of WrestleMania Featuring Tony Hinchcliffe & Friends. The event is set for Sunday, April 20, at 10 p.m. PT at the BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
Hinchcliffe, a well-known comedian and host of the Kill Tony podcast, will be joined by fellow comedians, celebrities, and WWE superstars, including Sami Zayn, The Miz, Braun Strowman, and Paul Heyman.
While the roast will not be televised, fans can secure tickets via Ticketmaster, with presale beginning on March 19 at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT. General public sales start on March 21 at the same time. On Location, WWE’s official fan hospitality partner, will also offer access to the event.
This marks a significant moment for Hinchcliffe, a longtime pro wrestling fan, who recently secured a deal with Netflix for three Kill Tony specials and a new stand-up special.
WrestleMania 41 itself will take place at Allegiant Stadium on April 19 and 20, featuring matches such as Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship, Tiffany Stratton vs. Charlotte Flair, and Gunther vs. Jey Uso.
WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has expressed his appreciation for fans who stopped using the \”Perc Angle\” nickname after he shared that it brought back painful memories of a difficult period in his life.
During a recent interview with Bro Bible, the Olympic gold medalist acknowledged the overwhelming support from his fanbase after they decided to retire the moniker, which referenced his past struggles with addiction.
Kurt Angle on Fans Retiring the ‘Perc Angle’ Nickname
In the interview, Angle revealed his reaction to learning that WWE fans had chosen to stop using the nickname after he publicly voiced his discomfort with it.
“Thank you so much. I was really pleasantly surprised that they responded that way,” Angle said. “It makes me know that I have true fans out there that really enjoyed my career and loved me for what I did. I’m just grateful that they’re going to drop the name.”
Angle explained that hearing the phrase reminded him of a dark chapter in his life, one that he has since worked hard to overcome.
“It was not cool. I’m just glad that they’re now using ‘Peak Angle’ instead,” he added. “I’m very grateful for that.”
Angle’s Journey to Redemption
Throughout his career, Angle has been open about his struggles with painkiller addiction, which stemmed from severe injuries sustained in both amateur and pro wrestling. He has since turned his life around and remains dedicated to helping others and mentorship.
Beyond his legacy in WWE and amateur wrestling, Angle continues to advocate for the growth of wrestling, including the recent addition of women’s wrestling as an NCAA championship sport and increased funding for Team USA athletes.
While his in-ring days are behind him due to significant health issues—including multiple knee and neck surgeries—Angle remains deeply involved in wrestling through public appearances and interviews.
Angle is focused on producing two biographical films about his life, with filming set to begin later in the year. His story is set to hit the big screen with Jon Bernthal cast as his father and discussions underway for Gabriel LaBelle to portray Angle himself.
Leyla Hirsch has officially announced her return to the independent wrestling scene. The former AEW and ROH star took to Twitter on March 18, sharing,
“After taking some time to reflect and recharge, I’m beyond excited to announce that I’m BACK on the independent wrestling scene!”
In addition to her career move, Hirsch recently celebrated a personal milestone, tying the knot earlier this year.
During the Fightful Select Podcast on March 18, Sean Ross Sapp was asked whether WWE NXT had interest in Hirsch. His response: “Nothing so far.” While that doesn’t rule out future interest, there’s currently no indication that WWE is pursuing her.
Hirsch signed with AEW in 2020, quickly gaining attention with her amateur wrestling background. She competed against top names like Serena Deeb, Thunder Rosa, and Kris Statlander before shifting to ROH in 2022.
A knee injury sidelined her for over a year, but she returned in 2023, aligning with The Kingdom. Her AEW/ROH tenure ended after losing the ROH Women’s World Television Title to Red Velvet at Final Battle 2024.
Now a free agent, Hirsch has plenty of options. WWE NXT, NJPW, TNA, and other promotions could be in the mix, but for now, she’s focused on taking bookings on the independent scene.
Hirsch’s departure from AEW comes amid a wave of recent exits. Malakai Black and Rey Fenix are reportedly heading to WWE, while Miro is another name that could be WWE-bound.
Kevin Nash has weighed in on John Cena’s shocking heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber, suggesting that Randy Orton should be the third man in the newly formed faction alongside Cena and The Rock.
On his Kliq This podcast, Nash, a founding member in the industry-changing New World Order (nWo), expressed skepticism about rapper Travis Scott’s involvement in the group. Instead, he believes adding a veteran like Orton would elevate the faction’s credibility and intensity.
“Have Randy Orton join Cena and Rock,” Nash said. “I don’t think Travis Scott is the right guy to be out there as the third.
You would have to have somebody come back, like if you could get Austin or ‘Taker… But we’ve all timed out. I think Randy looks amazing right now.”
The Third Man?
Orton and Cena have a storied history as rivals, making a potential alliance even more intriguing.
The Viper recently referenced Cena’s shocking turn on WWE SmackDown, fueling speculation about his next move.
With Cena and The Rock embracing their dark side, the addition of Orton could take the faction to another level. Whether WWE will shake up the lineup remains to be seen, but Nash’s insight carries weight given his experience in industry-defining stables.
WWE NXT star Jaida Parker has responded to criticism of her finishing move, the hip attack known as Hipnotic, making it clear she has no plans to change it—though an upgrade might be on the horizon.
Some fans have questioned the impact of the move, suggesting she should adopt a new finisher. Addressing the criticism on No-Contest Wrestling, Parker dismissed the idea of replacing Hipnotic while emphasizing its effectiveness.
“Not to be disrespectful, but if I were to use another one, then I wouldn’t be Jaida Parker,” she said. “That Hipnotic is Jaida Parker. People don’t like it or understand it, but they’re not me.”
Not Backing Down
Parker, a former soccer player for LSU’s Lady Tigers, explained that the move draws from her athletic background, likening it to powerful hip-checks in soccer. She defended its legitimacy, stating that if critics experienced the move firsthand, they wouldn’t be questioning its impact.
While Parker has no intention of replacing her finisher, she did tease potential improvements.
“I might upgrade it, but I’m not changing it,” she said. “I can only go up from here.”
Parker signed with WWE in August 2022 after completing her final college soccer season in 2021.
TNA Wrestling has gained significant momentum over the past year, with growing live audiences and increased exposure through its partnership with WWE. Now, the company\’s next major goal is securing a larger distribution deal. Speaking on Stories with JBL & Gerald Brisco, veteran grappler Frankie Kazarian highlighted the importance of expanding TNA\’s reach.
“Internally, the focus is on getting distribution and landing on a bigger network,” he explained.
He cited the recent move to Sportsnet 360 in Canada—following WWE’s shift to Netflix—as a major step, comparing it to being on ESPN in the U.S. Kazarian also pointed to the growing impact of streaming, suggesting platforms like Paramount+ as potential avenues.
“Management is working tirelessly on this, and with our current momentum, I’d hope by year’s end we’ll have a new deal bringing more eyes to our product,” he added.
Frankie Kazarian in TNA
Frankie Kazarian remains a key figure in TNA Wrestling, balancing in-ring competition, mentorship, and strategic influence. After re-signing in January 2025, he holds the Call Your Shot Gauntlet Trophy, positioning him as a TNA World Championship contender.
Currently portraying a heel, Kazarian attempted to cash in his title opportunity at TNA Genesis during Joe Hendry’s match with Nic Nemeth, reinforcing his main-event status. His tenure since 2003 makes him a respected locker room leader, mentoring younger talents.
Despite multiple X-Division and Tag Team Championship reigns, Kazarian has never won the TNA World Championship. He remains determined, stating, “I have unfinished business… I want to be TNA World Champion.” His pursuit of the title continues to shape his current role.
Jake Roberts doesn’t believe John Cena ever had the “It Factor” that defined other top wrestling stars.
The 16-time WWE Champion shocked fans by turning heel for the first time in two decades at Elimination Chamber, aligning with The Rock and betraying Cody Rhodes. His villainous transformation continued on Raw, where he delivered a scathing promo that drew overwhelming boos from the crowd.
Speaking on his Snake Pit podcast, Roberts supported the decision to turn Cena heel, stating it was necessary to solidify Cody Rhodes as WWE’s top babyface.
“Absolutely. Why not? It’s time for it—for a couple of reasons,” Roberts said. “Cody’s your top babyface now, so you’ve got to get those other guys out of there so he’s the only one.
And to turn heel? He’s gonna end up putting Cody over, which is exactly what they want.”
However, when asked whether Cena had the “It Factor” that legendary wrestlers possess, Roberts gave a blunt response:
“I don’t think he did. I don’t feel it, man. Nothing personal, but I’ve just always struggled with him.”
Cena’s shocking heel turn has divided fans, but Roberts remains firm in his stance that while the move benefits WWE’s storytelling, Cena himself may not have ever truly had that special star quality.
During an appearance on The F Y’all Podcast with C.T. Fletcher, MVP was asked which figure in wrestling history he would have liked to slap if given the chance. While he didn’t name anyone outright, he strongly hinted that it was a certain wrestling executive.
“You know who I want to see? You know who I want to say? I just don’t know if it would be the best thing to say right now,” MVP said.
He went on to reveal that there was only one person he truly regretted not confronting.
“Let’s just say, in my professional career, I have only one regret. There’s one individual—an executive for a wrestling company—that I wish I had slapped the sh*t out of when I had the chance. But I never got the chance. And I’ll leave it at that.”
Shelton Benjamin, also on the podcast, jokingly added that his answer would be Mia Yim, continuing their playful social media rivalry.
While MVP didn’t specify who he was referring to, fans speculate that it could be someone from WWE. He has previously voiced frustrations about how The Hurt Business and Black talent were handled, as well as his experiences working under Triple H and Vince McMahon. However, unless MVP decides to reveal more, the identity of the executive remains a mystery.
ECW legend The Sandman recently opened up about his negative experience in WWE while appearing on 1 of a Kind with RVD. The hardcore wrestling icon, known for his beer-drinking and kendo stick-wielding persona, revealed that his time in WWE was far from enjoyable, calling it “soul-sucking.”
Sandman explained that while ECW was the most fun and TNA was the easiest job for the money, WWE was the most lucrative but also the most frustrating. He shared that the corporate structure and backstage atmosphere in WWE made him miserable, stating he dreaded traveling to shows and being in the locker room.
“I love the business… until I had to go deal with WWE,” Sandman admitted. “A week there, I’m like, I’m ready to kill myself, dude. If I didn’t have a couple of my boys with me…”
One of his biggest frustrations was WWE limiting his signature beer-drinking entrance. Before SummerSlam, he was told he could no longer drink beer on TV, which he later realized was because WWE wanted to protect Steve Austin’s beer-drinking gimmick. This decision left Sandman feeling stripped of his identity in the ring.
“Johnny [Laurinaitis] calls me into his office and goes, ‘You can’t drink the beer anymore.’ And I’m like, ‘What?!’” He later realized WWE wanted to protect Steve Austin’s beer-drinking gimmick. “I was hot, and I hated it there. I had no friends… It was soul-sucking.”
He also recalled the overwhelming environment in WWE, mentioning that there were often over 100 wrestlers backstage, but only a fraction would actually be used on shows. He preferred dressing in stairwells with Sabu to avoid the crowded locker rooms.
“There’s a hundred guys there for Raw, and they’re using like 30 of them,” he said. “I can’t be in that locker room stepping all over people… and everybody’s lying to you.”
Ultimately, Sandman admitted that he was so unhappy in WWE that he would intentionally cut his matches short just to leave the arena sooner. His time with the company ended after conflicts with management, making it clear that WWE was never the right fit for him.
“They had to tell me to stop going home early,” he revealed. “I was going in there, giving them five minutes, and getting out.”
The Sandman\’s WWE career lasted approximately 15 months, from June 2006 to September 2007. While his time in WWE was relatively short compared to his legendary ECW tenure, it provided WWE fans with a glimpse of the hardcore icon who had been so instrumental in ECW\’s popularity during the 1990s. After his WWE departure, The Sandman returned to the independent wrestling circuit, where he has continued to make appearances well into the 2020s, with matches documented as recently as this month.
Catch The Sandman\’s comments about working for WWE on the latest episode of Rob Van Dam\’s 1 of a Kind podcast:
Nikki Bella made her in-ring return at the 2025 Royal Rumble, entering the women\’s match as the final participant at number 30. Following the event, she hinted at a possible extended run with WWE but has yet to appear on television since.
Speaking with Foothills Focus, Brie Bella discussed her sister’s return and the possibility of joining her in the ring.
“I’m grappling grapes while Nikki is grappling some girls this year. You never know—I might join her. I have a few tricks up my sleeve,” Brie shared.
“For the first time, I’m so content in my life. I’m exactly where I wanted to be.”
Beyond wrestling, the Bella twins remain busy with their wine brand, Bonita Bonita, and their podcast, the Nikki and Brie Show. Now based in Napa Valley, the sisters embrace their passion for winemaking while staying connected to their Scottsdale roots. She sees wine as a way to foster connection, emphasizing its role in bringing people together.
Jaida Parker’s journey to WWE has been anything but easy, but she believes her success is a testament to faith and perseverance. After her standout moment at NXT Roadblock, Parker opened up about how overcoming adversity led her to this defining stage of her career.
\”You can’t tell me God ain’t real,\” Parker said on the No-Contest Wrestling Podcast.
\”There’s no way I can go through all these trials and tribulations and then still end up on top. That ain’t nothing but God.\”
Parker’s passion was on full display when she shared the ring with top WWE stars like Bianca Belair, Naomi, Lash Legend, and Chelsea Green. For her, it was more than just another match—it was a realization of years of hard work paying off.
\”I turned and I’m like, oh, that’s Bianca, and I look, I was like, oh, that’s Naomi. I was just embracing that moment because a lot of people can’t say they’ve ever had that,\” she shared.
She also praised Belair and Naomi for paving the way for Black women in wrestling, calling them an inspiration. But Parker isn’t just here to admire—she’s here to compete.
\”I’m trying to make my idols become my rivals… because iron can only sharpen iron at the end of the day.\”
With her faith driving her and a hunger to prove herself, Parker is determined to keep climbing in WWE. And if her Roadblock moment was any indication, she’s only just getting started.
Tyler Bate, former NXT UK Champion and one half of New Catch Republic, has been medically cleared to return to WWE. Reports indicate his comeback is imminent, with RAW as his confirmed destination.
Bate suffered a torn pectoral muscle in July 2024 during an NXT tag match alongside Pete Dunne. After successful surgery, he spent seven months rehabbing before receiving clearance to compete.
Return Plans and Future Direction
Initially rumored for a February return, Bate’s comeback was delayed but is now expected soon. WWE officials have confirmed he will remain on RAW, where he competed before his injury, according to PWInsider.
At just 28, Bate boasts an impressive career, including becoming the first WWE United Kingdom Champion at 19 and achieving NXT UK Triple Crown status. His return raises questions about whether he will reunite with Dunne, who has since adopted a heel persona, or pursue a singles run.
With his mix of technical skill and power, Bate’s return promises to add excitement to WWE’s flagship brand. Fans can expect his reappearance any time now.
Netflix has released a second trailer for Happy Gilmore 2, with the highly anticipated sequel set to premiere on July 25, 2025. The latest preview, unveiled on March 18, follows a brief teaser that debuted on Christmas Day 2024.
Around the 0:35 mark, AEW star MJF appears alongside Happy Gilmore and other cast members, jumping in excitement. MJF will portray one of Gilmore’s sons in the film, and was also shown in the first trailer.
Notably absent from the trailer is Becky Lynch, who was reported to be part of the project in January. WWE star Seth Rollins later confirmed her involvement in February.
The new footage also features Bad Bunny, Ben Stiller, Conor Sherry, Julie Bowen, and Christopher McDonald, further building anticipation for the sequel.
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