SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Vince Russo: John Cena Is Going to Be Killed over Vince McMahon Comments

    John Cena\’s recent comments about Vince McMahon and the lawsuit against him will come back to haunt him, according to Vince Russo.

    McMahon stepped down from WWE one month ago due to the shocking allegations made against him in Janel Grant\’s lawsuit. McMahon has claimed that the litigation is rife with fabrications and has claimed he is completely innocent. Former WWE executive John Laurinaitis, who is named in the suit, has claimed he is a victim, not a predator, in this situation.

    Cena\’s Comments

    Few WWE Superstars have closer ties to McMahon than John Cena who owes a wealth of success to McMahon\’s booking of him in the 2000s and 2010s. When asked about the allegations, Cena did speak about accountability but also spoke about his deep love the the ex-WWE Chairman.

    Vince Russo on John Cena

    Many have taken issue with Cena\’s comments, believing he put too much emphasis on his love and respect for McMahon as opposed to the allegations made by Miss Grant. Sitting down with Sportskeeda, Vince Russo shared his surprise over this blunder by the usually well-spoken Cena.

    “I am reading Cena’s comments, and I am like, he is going to get hammered for this… I knew Cena was going to get killed for this. There is no way he is NOT gonna get killed for this. I just wish he would have said, you know, you could love him.\”

    Russo added that Cena isn\’t the only Superstar who\’s comments about McMahon missed the mark. 

    \”Same thing with Orton, you know, ‘made your career,’ this that and the other thing. But man if it’s me, I am gonna say all that, but I am also gonna say, ‘But if he is found guilty of these charges… he is gonna have to take full responsibility.’ At least say something like that.”

    What\’s Next? 

    John Cena is hoping to do \’something\’ at WrestleMania 40, which is now less than 40 days away. Cena hasn\’t appeared for WWE since his Crown Jewel 2023 loss to Solo Sikoa. At this time, there are no confirmed plans for Cena this April in Philadelphia. 

  • NXT Star Impressing At Live Events, Big Future Plans for the War Dogs

    NXT Superstar Impressing

    Je\’Von Evans is proving to be one to watch at NXT live events and has been impressing officials according to Fightful Select. He is expected to be a regular on NXT TV moving forward. Evans, who previously competed as Jay Malachi, featured in a backstage segment on the February 13, edition of the show. He signed with the company in November of 2023. 

    Praise for Byron Saxton

    Byron Saxton has received praise for taking up Booker T\’s role as part of the commentary team. Shortly before NXT Vengeance Day, Booker announced that a medical issue would keep him from that show and upcoming events. He is expected to return very soon. 

    Plans for the War Dogs

    WWE NXT Tag Team Champions Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker have proven to be a hit with fans and with those backstage. There have been discussions about Corbin joining Breakker on the main roster now that Bron has signed with SmackDown. There are also talks about renaming the group to \’Spear of Days.\’ 

    Not Taking WWE NXT Off Air

    Earlier this month, the WWE NXT crowd were told to watch their language after heavy profanity was sent the way of Carmelo Hayes. Despite rumors suggesting last week\’s NXT could have been taken off the air due to the chants, there was \’no chance\’ it would be taken off the air by the USA Network. 

    Edris Enofe Injury

    It was previously reported by the Wrestling Observer that Edris Enofe suffered an injury on the February 6, WWE NXT. Fightful reports that Enofe is said to have suffered the injury about halfway through the tag team bout with Nathan Frazer and Axiom.

  • Ric Flair Turns 75: Charlotte Shares Heartwarming Birthday Tribute To Her Father

    Charlotte Flair has shared her tribute to her legendary father Ric Flair as the Nature Boy has turned 75 years old. 

    Born February 25, 1949, Flair is considered one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. Flair is already a two-time WWE Hall of Famer and was the first inductee to receive a second nod. Flair is also hopeful for a third WWE Hall of Fame induction for his role in Evolution. 

    In October of last year, Flair joined AEW and has been part of Sting\’s retirement run. The pair were fierce rivals in the NWA and WCW and competed in the final WCW match during the March 26, 2001, edition of WCW Monday Nitro. 

    Ric Flair\’s Birthday Wish

    As a megastar in wrestling, Flair\’s birthday earned a ton of well-wishes from fans around the world. On Twitter, Charlotte shared a heartfelt message to her father, saying her love for him is as big as the sky. The Younger Flair included a photo of herself, Ric, and her husband Andrade El Idolo. 

    AEW also shared its birthday wish to the legendary wrestler. 

    In a tweet of his own, Ric Flair was grateful for the well-wishes by fans. 

    What\’s Next? 

    Charlotte suffered an injury in December of last year that has kept the Queen out of action ever since. Flair recently said that she is ahead of her recovery time-frame in positive news from the former Women\’s Champion. The Queen was spotted at WWE\’s Performance Center with John Cena last week. 

  • Randy Orton: Giving Back To The Business Is So Important to Me Right Now

    Randy Orton is motivated by giving back to the wrestling business in the latter stages of his career with WWE. 

    Orton is one of WWE\’s most decorated Superstars, with 14 World Championships, a Grand Slam, and two Royal Rumble victories to his name. The Viper returned to TV at last year\’s Survivor Series: WarGames event after a severe back injury nearly ended his wrestling career. 

    Randy Orton On His Role in WWE

    Speaking for his A&E Biography: Legends episode, Orton addressed the importance of giving back to the business that has done so much for him. 

    \”I\’d say paying it forward, giving back to the business [is the most important thing to me at this stage of my career.] Just helping out the guys who need the help. When I was coming up, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Triple H, all these guys. They made sure to instill in me as many good habits as they could. Here I am, 20 years later and a lot of things come full circle.\”

    WWE Superstars on Randy Orton

    Borrowing a line from his WWE return promo, Cody Rhodes spoke about his mentor, and how despite Orton often being against authority, he has become a moral compass. 

    \”The path we take to avoid our destiny is often the one that leads us directly to it. I think Randy senses that he is now in a position where he can leave the industry better than he found it.

    Cody also recognized the irony of Orton of all people now being a person who is looked to as a leader given his often controversial actions in the past. 

    For an individual who has [been] so adamantly against rules and structure and management, the irony is that he\’s become such a great leader. 

    Seth Rollins, who was Orton\’s first feud after his 2015 WWE World Heavyweight Championship win, was appreciative of all the Viper does. 

    \”He\’s really taken on the responsibility of helping out the younger generation.\”

    The Miz, who defeated Orton in November 2010 to win his first of two WWE Championships, also had praise for the Viper. 

    \”Yeah he\’s a locker room leader now [but] he didn\’t have to be either. But he took on that role because he cares about this business. And he doesn\’t get the credit. He\’ll never get the credit that he deserves. Until now hopefully.\”

    What\’s Next? 

    At last weekend\’s WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 event, Orton competed in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match. The Viper was able to eliminate Logan Paul but was attacked by the Maverick with brass knuckles afterward. The match was won by Drew McIntyre. Given what happened in Perth, it has been rumored that Orton and Paul will face off at WrestleMania 40. 

    For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

  • What Was Said AT TNA\’s Meeting with Talent & Management After Scott D\’Amore\’s Firing?

    The TNA Wrestling roster was able to have its say at a large meeting with management following the firing of former President Scott D\’Amore. 

    D\’Amore was fired earlier this month by TNA\’s parent company Anthem Entertainment, who have replaced him with their own President Anthony Cicione. Replacing D\’Amore with Cicione has been part of an effort to strengthen ties between the two parties. The decision to cut D\’Amore has been met with backlash. TNA\’s roster has issued a letter to Anthem, expressing their views on the matter. It was reported last week that a meeting between TNA talent and management would take place 

    Who Was At TNA\’s Meeting?

    The meeting was meticulously planned out ahead of time, according to Fightful Select. Attendees of the meeting included TNA Wrestling talent and bosses within Anthem, some familiar to TNA\’s roster and others that talent will be answering to from now on. Some of the TNA wrestlers had spoken with higher-ups on a one-on-one basis as well.

    What Was Said at the Meeting? 

    The general consensus of the meeting was that nobody wanted the roster to abandon the hard work they\’ve done collectively, even if the roster wasn\’t in agreement with the decision to fire D\’Amore. One top name with TNA was reportedly looking to leave the company as a result of D\’Amore\’s exit. They later decided to work the weekend\’s taping and see how the meeting went before doing anything too extreme. 

    The Future of TNA Wrestling

    TNA’s new higher-ups were said to be open to feedback from the talent roster. Many wrestlers in the company said that while they disagreed with the decision, the meeting did do a good job of getting them excited about the possibilities going forward. While many in the company are still hoping Scott D’Amore will rejoin TNA at some point, it is not expected to happen.

  • Swerve Strickland is A Paul Heyman Guy, Talks AEW Ideas With WWE Mentor

    Swerve Strickland may have found a home for himself in AEW, but the popular star remains in touch with one of WWE\’s most notable on-screen personalities. 

    Strickland joined WWE in 2019 and the former NXT North American Champion was released in late 2021. He would later join AEW at Revolution 2022 in March. On the latest edition of his Swerve City podcast, Strickland spoke about his journey in wrestling and revealed that he still converses with Paul Heyman. 

    “Little do people know, I still talk to Paul Heyman. Just on a mentorship-type state. I go to him for advice on like my promos and my segments that like … when I was doing the home invasion segments and all this stuff, I was like ‘how did this make you feel?’ I would get reception back from him.”

    Paul Heyman on AEW

    Heyman has unsurprisingly never appeared for AEW, but the special counsel to Roman Reigns does keep an eye on the competition. Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Survivor Series 2021, Heyman was asked for his take on Tony Khan\’s company. 

    “Oh, they’re viable. They are a viable entity, and God bless them for being there.\”

    What\’s Next? 

    This weekend, Swerve Strickland will compete in the main event of AEW Revolution 2024. Strickland will challenge AEW World Champion Samoa Joe in a triple threat match that will also feature \’Hangman\’ Adam Page. With that said, the Cowboy may not be in the match despite his recent \’injury\’ on Dynamite being confirmed to be a work. This match will mark Strickland\’s first AEW pay-per-view main event. 

    As for Heyman, he will remain close to The Bloodline on WWE TV. Roman Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40. At WWE Elimination Chamber 2024, Cody Rhodes challenged The Rock to go one-on-one. 

  • Baron Corbin Clinches Silver In Jiu-Jitsu World League, Vows to Win Gold Next Time

    WWE NXT Tag Team Champion Baron Corbin is ready to improve after clinching a silver medal in a Jiu-Jitsu World League tournament. 

    Taking to Instagram, the Lone Wolf shared a photo of himself as well as the Bronze and Gold medalists on their respective podiums. Corbin admitted it wasn\’t the result he wanted but is ready to learn from his mistakes. 

    Obviously not the result I wanted last night! Lost 2-0 on points in the finals. @the305mvp put it in perspective and said “You win or you learn. What did you learn?” I defn learned a few things and will get back in the Lab and work! The work is never done! @rudos_bjj already has a plan.

    We all stumble and it should push us to get better. I’m taking home another gold in the next tournament. I hope the guy who beat me is there so I can get it back. Let’s go!

    #bjj #silversucks #oss #fujibjj

    https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C3xesiOrNxf

    Baron Corbin in WWE

    Corbin has been a part of the WWE roster since 2014. In addition to his current reign as an NXT Tag Team Champion with Joe Gacy, he is a former United States Champion. Corbin has also captured the King of the Ring crown and Money in the Bank briefcase but failed in his cash-in attempt. 

    Baron Corbin\’s Fighting Prowess

    Baron Corbin\’s fighting skills were long established before he stepped foot in a WWE ring. He is a two-time Golden Gloves regional amateur boxing champion. In 2008, he competed in the Golden Gloves National Tournament of Champions in the super heavyweight division and made it to the quarter-finals. 

    More recently, Corbin captured gold at a different Jiu-Jitsu World League contest as a representative of the Rodos BJJ fighting gym. Alumni of Rudos BJJ include Matt Riddle, Shayna Baszler, and reigning WWE Women\’s Champion IYO SKY.

  • Update on Finn Balor After Injury Scare At WWE Elimination Chamber 2024

    An update has emerged on Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champion Finn Balor following some concerning scenes at WWE Elimination Chamber 2024. 

    In the sole tag-team match on the card, Balor and Damian Priest retained the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships against New Catch Republic (Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne.) The British tag team qualified for this match by winning a four-way tag match and then became number-one contenders by defeating DIY. 

    Latest On Finn Balor

    After the match, WWE\’s camera team spotted Balor who was bleeding heavily from his thumb. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez gave an update on the Judgment Day member. 

    \”We had Finn Balor who, at the end of the match, holds up his hand and his thumb is bleeding like crazy. And man, he sold that thing big. And we weren’t sure if he had broken his thumb or cut it open or whatever. But apparently, whatever it was, he’s alright.“

    What\’s Next? 

    With Elimination Chamber 2024 out of the way, Balor and Priest will be looking ahead to WrestleMania 40 and defending their titles in Philadelphia. The show will mark one year since the Undisputed WWE Tag Titles headlined WrestleMania 39: Saturday.

    It\’s unclear who the champs will face this April but the future is clear for Judgment Day ally Rhea Ripley. After retaining against Nia Jax in Perth, the WWE Women\’s World Champion will defend against Becky Lynch, who won the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match to earn a title shot at WrestleMania 40. 

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: WWE Had Huge Original Plans for Bronson Reed in Perth

    \’Big\’ Bronson Reed didn\’t compete at WWE Elimination Chamber 2024, despite the company having some huge plans for him in Perth at first. 

    The February 24, event marked the first WWE PLE in Australia since Super Showdown in 2018. In the main event, Rhea Ripley retained her Women\’s World Title against Nia Jax in front of thousands of her fellow Australians. Drew McIntyre won the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, earning a World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40. Becky Lynch won the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match. She will face Ripley at WrestleMania 40. 

    Bronson Reed Misses Elimination Chamber 2024

    Rhea Ripley, Grayson Waller, and Indi Hartwell were all given the chance to appear in her native Australia, but Bronson Reed wasn\’t at the show. As Reed explained, he was pulled from the show so he could be with his wife when she gave birth to their child. Triple H congratulated Reed on social media and said that the Australian Superstar was exactly where he needed to be. 

    Original Plans for Bronson Reed

    Reed made clear that he was once planned for the show, but did not specify what his role would\’ve been. The original plan was for Reed to challenge World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins, according to Fightful Select. Their match was hinted at earlier this year when Reed started cutting promos saying he was coming after a champion who had no idea he was being targeted. 

    Even if Reed\’s wife hadn\’t given birth, these plans had to be scrapped due to Seth Rollins\’ knee injury suffered earlier this year. The report adds that Reed was \”more than willing\” to compete in Perth in some capacity, but when his wife went into labor earlier than expected \”everything ended up working out for the best.\”

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 Results

    Here are the results of WWE Elimination Chamber 2024:

    • Kick-off Show: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) (c) defeated Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae (WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships)
    • The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) defeated New Catch Republic (Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)
    • Becky Lynch defeated Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Naomi, and Raquel Rodriguez (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE Women\’s World Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)
    • Rhea Ripley (c) defeated Nia Jax (WWE Women\’s World Championship)
    • Drew McIntyre defeated Randy Orton, Bobby Lashley, LA Knight, Kevin Owens, and Logan Paul (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: How Much Wrestling Happened At WWE\’s Perth PLE?

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 was a huge event for the fans down under, though the show had a surprising amount of wrestling. 

    The February 24, event in Perth, Australia marked the first WWE PLE in the country since Super Showdown in 2018. In the main event, Rhea Ripley retained her Women\’s World Title against Nia Jax in front of thousands of her fellow Australians. Drew McIntyre won the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, earning a World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40. Becky Lynch won the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match. She will face Ripley at WrestleMania 40. 

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 Stats

    Including the hour-long kick-off show, WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 lasted for four hours and 30 minutes. Of that time, only 1:50:13 was dedicated to in-ring action from bell to bell. That means that approximately 40.8% of the total run time was scheduled for wrestling. The rest of that run-time was video packages, Peacock advertisements, and endorsements from the Australian Tourism Board.

    The biggest gap in the action took place between the Undisputed WWE Tag Title match and the opening bell of the Men\’s Elimination Chamber. The time between these two matches was 55 minutes. The Grayson Waller Effect which featured Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins lasted 22 minutes. 

    WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 Results

    Here are the results of WWE Elimination Chamber 2024:

    • Kick-off Show: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) (c) defeated Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae (WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships)
    • The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) defeated New Catch Republic (Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)
    • Becky Lynch defeated Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Naomi, and Raquel Rodriguez (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE Women\’s World Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)
    • Rhea Ripley (c) defeated Nia Jax (WWE Women\’s World Championship)
    • Drew McIntyre defeated Randy Orton, Bobby Lashley, LA Knight, Kevin Owens, and Logan Paul (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)

  • Kevin Owens: A Lot Of Sami & My\’s WWE Tag Title Reign Went Under the Radar

    Kevin Owens was thrilled to win the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles with Sami Zayn last year, though feels more could\’ve been done with their reign. 

    The pair captured the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships in the main event of WrestleMania 39: Saturday in April of last year. The emotional climax of Zayn\’s story with the Bloodline saw the pair end the record-breaking reign of The Usos. 

    Kevin Owens On His WWE Tag Team Title Reign

    The pair held the titles until Payback 2023 where they would lose the gold to Damian Priest and Finn Balor of the Judgment Day. Speaking with Mail Sport, Owens reflected on his title reign and felt much went under the radar due to being kept off of Premium Live Events. 

    “Me and Sami worked our asses off to give main events on RAW every week that had people going wild and we succeeded, and I’m not one to toot my own horn, I really am not, but I think Sami and I did a lot of special things as champions that went under the radar because they weren’t on pay-per-views. They weren’t under the big bright lights. They were usually on RAW.”

    Sami & Kevin\’s Tag Title Reign

    It\’s not hard to see why Owens believes a lot of the title reign wasn\’t given a spotlight. As champions, the pair were granted just one successful title defense, which came at WWE Night of Champions 2023. The pair held the gold for 154 days but is recognized by WWE as lasting 160 days. 

    What Came Next? 

    Following their loss, Owens would be moved to SmackDown and would quickly enter a feud with Logan Paul. Paul got a controversial win over Owens at the 2024 Royal Rumble PLE after the Prizefighter used brass knuckles introduced by Paul. Owens also worked the match with a legitimate injury. At the WWE Elimination Chamber 2024 event, both men competed in the Men\’s Chamber match won by Drew McIntyre. 

  • Randy Orton Was \”Definitely Not Ready\” To Become WWE World Heavyweight Champion in 2004

    Randy Orton was honored to become WWE World Heavyweight Champion at SummerSlam 2004, despite feeling totally unprepared for the responsibility. 

    In the main event of the event from Toronto, Canada, Orton dethroned Chris Benoit, who had won the title at WrestleMania 20. The win marked Orton\’s first of 14 World Championship wins in WWE. At 24 years old, Orton also became the youngest WWE World Champions in history when he captured the title. 

    Orton On His First World Title Win

    Winning a World Championship was a feat for Orton that neither his father nor grand father could lay claim to. In a video previewing his upcoming A&E Biography: Legend documentary, Orton spoke about how it felt to win the title and being able to speak with his family after the match. 

    \”This was the culmination of all this hard work. I knew my father and my grandfather would be watching me, proud of me. I believe Stephanie McMahon gave me her cell phone. She was like \’Call your dad. Call your grandpa. Talk to them.\’ And I\’m so glad that she did.

    My grandpa, he was only around for a few years after so just hearing his voice, hearing how proud he was of me, you know, that\’s a conversation I will never forget.  

    \”Same with my father, I called him next. I\’d never heard my old man get choked up. Like, he\’s old school to the bone. But he was choked up on the phone that night. So it was a special night.\”

    Orton\’s father, Cowboy Bob Orton, was also interviewed for the documentary and recalled his father\’s reaction to his grandson\’s huge victory. 

    \”Dad was just beaming. To come up that fast and to learn so much in such a short period of time, [I was] so proud.\”

    Not Ready to Be Champion

    With little more than two years on the main roster, Orton\’s thrust to the World Heavyweight Championship picture was rapid, to say the least. In the interview, the Legend Killer recalled the pressure and not being ready to be the top star. 

    It\’s hard to describe the feeling of the responsibility, the amount of awesomeness that comes with holding that belt. I had the title but I didn\’t have the maturity. I definitely was not ready. I\’m really just sitting on top of the world. I\’m making a lot of money for someone my age and I\’m living the dream. And I am a cocky son of a b**ch.\”

    What Came Next? 

    After retaining the title the next night on Raw against Benoit, Orton was betrayed by Evolution as Triple H wanted to be World Heavyweight Champion again. This led to Orton turning face but he would lose the title to the Game the following month at Unforgiven 2004.

    For the use of quotes please give an H/T to SE Scoops.

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: Raquel Rodriguez Explains Make-Up Free Look in Perth

    Raquel Rodriguez was happy to walk into the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match sans make-up amid her battle with Mast Cell Activiation Syndrome. 

    Rodriguez was one of six women in the Elimination Chamber match that started the main show. The match marked Raquel\’s second time stepping foot inside the Elimination Chamber. The fifth woman to enter the match, Rodriguez was the third eliminated after being pinned by Bianca Belair following the KOD. Becky Lynch would win the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match, earning a Women\’s World Championship at WrestleMania 40. 

    Raquel Rodriguez Goes Make-Up Free

    In the days before Elimination Chamber 2024, Raquel spoke about living with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, which causes the WWE Superstar to experience symptoms seen from allergic reactions, including rashes and hives. 

    For the Women\’s Chamber match, Rodriguez arrived sans make-up in a unique look from the former WWE NXT Women\’s Champion. Taking to social media, Rodriguez explained her \’Alicia Keys style,\’ a nod to the singer who stopped wearing makeup in 2016. 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C3vGiU1r8ma

    What\’s Next? 

    With her victory inside the Chamber, Becky Lynch will now face Rhea Ripley at WrestleMania 40. The Eradicator of The Judgment Day retained in the show\’s main event against Nia Jax. Lynch herself had a unique look for Elimination Chamber 2024, which was a tribute to Scott Hall. As for Rodriguez, her path to WrestleMania 40 remains unclear. 

  • WWE\’s Rey Mysterio Appears At UFC Mexico In Latest TKO Crossover

    WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio surprised fans with an appearance at the UFC Mexico event, in the latest example of a crossover between the two companies. 

    Mysterio was shown on the video screen during the show and was seen to be having a great time. The three-time former WWE World Champion had a beverage and threw up his signature hand gesture as the crowd cheered for him. 

    WWE & UFC

    Mysterio\’s presence at the event is just the latest example of a crossover between UFC and WWE. On this week\’s Raw, Michael Chandler appeared in the crowd with plenty to say. The UFC fighter grabbed the mic and called out Conor McGregor and said he\’d \”See you at the top.\”

    At UFC 298, several WWE Superstars appeared in the crowd at the event. WWE\’s resident power couple Bianca Belair and Montez Ford were at UFC 298 as was CM Punk. The Chicago-Made star was described as a \”retired welterweight\” in a nod to his underwhelming UFC career. 

    Seth Rollins recently addressed Punk\’s tenure in UFC. When asked about his prospects in the Octagon, Rollins said he\’d do poorly, but would do better than Punk. 

    Rey Mysterio\’s Current Status

    In November of last year, Mysterio underwent knee surgery that has kept him out of action ever since. The masked legend had reportedly been putting off the surgery for some time. He was written off of TV with an attack by Santos Escobar as part of the latter\’s exit from the LWO. While Mysterio hoped to return to the ring in time for the Royal Rumble, that did not happen. It is now believed that Rey will return ahead of WrestleMania 40 in April of this year. 

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: Candice LeRae Pays Tribute to Aussie Hit Bluey with Ring Attire

    Candice LeRae proved her Bluey fandom at WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth with a unique attire inspired by one of the hit show\’s main characters. 

    On the kick-off show, LeRae and Indi Hartwell challenged the Kabuki Warriors for the WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships. This was an emotional homecoming for Hartwell who was born in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Unfortunately for the pair, it was the Kabuki Warriors who got the win during the WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth kick-off show. 

    Candice LeRae\’s Tribute to Bluey

    Given that she was in Australia, Candice LeRae paid tribute to the Australian children\’s show hit Bluey during her appearance in Optus Stadium. LeRae wore an attire bearing a striking resemblance to Chilli, the matriarch of the Heeler family and mother of the titular Bluey. It\’s hardly a surprise that LeRae identifies with Chilli given that she knows a thing or two about being a mother. In February 2022, LeRae and Johnny Gargano welcomed their son Quill into the world.  

    The Bluey Phenomenon

    Bluey premiered in October 2018 and focuses on Bluey, a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy, and her family Chilli, dad Bandit, and younger sister Bingo. The show has been universally praised for its sharp all-ages humor, positive representation of parenting, and ability to tackle social themes. The show\’s popularity has spawned merchandise and a stage show featuring its characters and has been a success with kids and adults alike. 

    More Notable Attires

    Candice LeRae wasn\’t the only Superstar dressed to impress inside Optus Stadium. Becky Lynch wore an attire reminiscent of the late Scott Hall, who passed away in March 2022. LeRae\’s tag-team partner Indi Hartwell wore green and gold. The color scheme is used by several Australian teams, including the Olympic team, the national Ruby teams, and the national Cricket team. 

    WWE Elimination Chamber Results

    Here are the results of WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

    • Kick-off Show: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) (c) defeated Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae (WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships)
    • The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) defeated New Catch Republic (Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)
    • Becky Lynch defeated Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, Naomi, and Raquel Rodriguez (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE Women\’s World Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)
    • Rhea Ripley (c) defeated Nia Jax (WWE Women\’s World Championship)
    • Drew McIntyre defeated Randy Orton, Bobby Lashley, LA Knight,  Kevin Owens, and Logan Paul (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: WWE Superstars React to Epic Perth, Australia Event

    The Superstars of the WWE have been talking following the explosive WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth Premium Live Event. 

    The event marked WWE\’s first Premium Live Event in Australia since 2018. In the main event, Rhea Ripley retained her Women\’s World Title against Nia Jax in front of thousands of her fellow Australians. Drew McIntyre won the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, earning a World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40. Becky Lynch won the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match. She will face Ripley at WrestleMania 40. 

    WWE Elimination Chamber Reactions

    Taking to Twitter after the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match, Seth Rollins was thrilled to see his wife Becky Lynch emerge the victor. 

    Cody Rhodes reacted to his own segment and found it hilarious that the crowd was happy to be recognized as \’Cody Crybabies.\’

    Raw announcer Samantha Irvin had a mixed time watching the show. While she was thrilled to see Randy Orton eliminate Logan Paul, her mood soured when Paul attacked Orton, helping Drew McIntyre get the win. 

    Trinity shared some photos of her time at Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

    Drew McIntyre was proud to dub himself the Savior of WrestleMania. McIntyre has taken credit for injuring CM Punk and pushing Cody Rhodes to challenge Roman Reigns instead of Seth Rollins. 

    It wasn\’t just WWE Superstars who reacted to the show. Ahead of her Women\’s World title match, Rhea Ripley\’s fiancee Budy Matthews wished the Eradicator luck in her title match. 

    https://twitter.com/SNM_Buddy/status/1761374368767062370

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: Rhea Ripley Retains in Triumphant Homecoming Main Event

    Rhea Ripley\’s return to Australia proved to be a triumphant homecoming for \’Mami\’ after retaining the Women\’s World title at WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth. 

    In the main event of the show, Ripley defended her title against Nia Jax. The Judgment Day member received a huge ovation from the 50,000+ fans in Optus Stadium. Rhea\’s family were at ringside for the event and celebrated with her fans after the match. 

    You can check out some highlights from the match below.

    What\’s Next? 

    Rhea Ripley will now defend her Women\’s World Championship against Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 40. The Man won the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match earlier in the night to earn a shot at the Women\’s World Championship. 

    WWE WrestleMania 40 Card

    Here is the WrestleMania 40 card as it currently stands:

    IYO (c) Vs. Bayley (WWE Women\’s Championship)

    Roman Reigns (c) Vs. Cody Rhodes (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship)

    Seth \’Freakin\’ Rollins (c) Vs. Drew McIntyre (WWE World Heavyweight Championship)

    Rhea Ripley (c) Vs. Becky Lynch (WWE Women\’s World Championship)

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: Kevin Owens Fulfills Make-A-Wish Request In Men\’s Chamber Match

    Kevin Owens entered the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match with the desire to earn a title shot at WrestleMania 40, but that wasn\’t his only goal for the match. 

    Owens was one of the six entrants in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, alongside Bobby Lashley, LA Knight, U.S. Champion Logan Paul, Randy Orton, and Drew McIntyre. This marked the Prizefighter\’s second time competing inside the Elimination Chamber match, after previously competing in the bout in 2021 which was won by Daniel Bryan. 

    Kevin Owens\’ Make-a-Wish Promise

    Early into his part of the match, Kevin Owens hit a chokeslam, a move that isn\’t typically used by the former Universal Champion. 

    As explained on commentary, Owens had granted wishes with the Make-A-Wish foundation earlier in the day. One young fan had asked Owens to hit a chokeslam during the Elimination Chamber match, a request the Prizefighter was happy to oblige. 

    Kevin Owens in the Elimination Chamber

    While Owens was able to fulfill this request, he did not emerge victorious in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match. The former WWE Universal Champion was the third man to enter the match and was the third Superstar to be eliminated. Owens was eliminated by Randy Orton, who would make it to the final two before being beaten by Drew McIntyre. The Scottish Warrior will now face Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40.  

  • Drew McIntyre Wins Men\’s Elimination Chamber 2024, Will Face Seth Rollins at WrestleMania

    Drew McIntyre is officially on the Road to WrestleMania after winning the Men\’s Elimination Chamber at WWE Elimination Chamber 2024. 

    At the Premium Live Event from Perth, Australia, McIntyre outlasted Randy Orton, Logan Paul, Kevin Owens, Bobby Lashley, and LA Knight to win the Men\’s Chamber match. McIntyre entered the match from the #2 position and eliminated Randy Orton last to win the contest. You can check out some of the highlights from the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match down below. 

    What\’s Next? 

    With this win McIntyre has earned himself a World Heavyweight Championship match against Seth \’Freakin\’ Rollins at WrestleMania 40. Rollins is currently out with an injury but has vowed he will defend his title at the two-night show this April. This match will mark McIntyre\’s third time competing in a World Championship match at WrestleMania.

    The match will mark the first time that this iteration of the World Heavyweight Championship has been defended at a WrestleMania. This version of the title was introduced in 2023 with Seth Rollins winning the gold in the finals of a 12-man tournament at WWE Night of Champions last May.

    WWE WrestleMania 40

    Here is the card for WWE WrestleMania 40 as it currently stands: 

    IYO (c) Vs. Bayley (WWE Women\’s Championship)

    Roman Reigns (c) Vs. Cody Rhodes (Undisputed WWE Universal Championship)

    Seth \’Freakin\’ Rollins (c) Vs. Drew McIntyre (WWE World Heavyweight Championship)

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: Did You Catch Becky Lynch\’s WWE Hall of Famer Tribute in Perth?

    Becky Lynch is on the Road to WrestleMania 40, and paid tribute to a late WWE Hall of Famer inside the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match. 

    Lynch won the match as one of the first two entrants. This match marked Lynch\’s first time inside the Elimination Chamber. The Man was able to outlast Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Tiffany Stratton, and Naomi to emerge victorious in Perth. 

    Becky Lynch\’s WWE Hall of Fame Tribute

    Lynch rocked a unique attire for the Women\’s Elimination Chamber match which featured a red dripping effect. As pointed out on Twitter, Lynch\’s attire was reminiscent of the late Scott Hall.

    Hall, also known as Razor Ramon in WWE, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice. The Bad Guy was inducted as a singles Superstar in 2014. Years later, he would be inducted for his pivotal role as part of the New World Order. 

    In March 2022, Hall was hospitalized after suffering a fall and breaking his hip. During surgery, Hall suffered multiple heart attacks and was later taken off life support after his family were able to say goodbye. WWE announced his death later during that day\’s Raw episode with a tribute video.

    What\’s Next?

    With this win, Becky Lynch has earned a Women\’s World Championship opportunity at WWE WrestleMania 40. She will face either Rhea Ripley or Nia Jax at the April 2024 event. This year\’s two-night event will be the first WrestleMania to see the Women\’s World Championship defended, as it was previously recognized as the WWE SmackDown Women\’s Championship. 

  • New Mugshot of Tammy Sytch As Disgraced Wrestling Valet Is Moved to Florida Prison

    A new mugshot of disgraced former WWF valet Tammy Sytch has emerged online following her transferral to a Florida State Prison. 

    Sytch, known during her WWF career as Sunny,  was sentenced to 17 years in prison in November 2023, as well as eight years probation once she is released. This sentencing comes after Sytch pleaded no contest to the DUI Manslaughter charge against her, stemming from the death of 75-year-old Julian Lasseter in March of 2022. The no-contest plea means that Sytch accepts the conviction but avoids a factual admission of guilt.

    In court, Sytch was emotional and both sobbed and laughed during her sentencing. Sytch also mentioned Chris Candido and said her boyfriend\’s death was a key part of her downfall. This comment drew backlash from those in the industry, who believe Sytch\’s destructive behavior had been established long before Candido\’s passing in 2005. 

    Tammy Sytch\’s Home and Mugshot

    Sytch had been at the Florida Women\’s Reception Center in Ocala but has now been moved to Lowell Correctional Institution just a mile away. A new mugshot of Sytch was taken at the center which was obtained by TMZ. 

    Sytch\’s mugshot from Lowell Correctional Institution.

    More on Lowell Correctional Institution. 

    Lowell is the oldest all-women\’s facility in the state and holds around 1,000 inmates. LCI features several different programs for inmates, including cosmetology, cooking classes, and operating heavy machinery. The prison also offers aid to inmates battling alcohol addiction, something Sytch has struggled with over the years. 

    Sytch may also have the opportunity to hold down a job in LCI, though a rep for Lowell told TMZ that she does not yet have a work assignment. Sytch\’s release date is listed as January 3, 2040.

  • Watch: Action Figure Cody Rhodes Is A Playable Character In WWE 2K24

    Cody Rhodes will be a playable character in the WWE 2K24 video game, as both himself and an action figure recreation of the American Nightmare. 

    On social media, a clip was uploaded featuring the action-figure version of Rhodes making his entrance in the upcoming video game. This figure of Rhodes depicts his WWE Hell in a Cell 2022 attire, complete with torn pectoral injury. Rhodes would compete despite the injury and defeat Seth Rollins inside Hell in a Cell. This figure comes from the WWE Mattel Elite: Defining Moments range of action figures. 

    Cody Rhodes & WWE 2K24

    In addition to being a playable character, in both flesh and plastic form, Cody Rhodes is one of the cover stars for WWE 2K24. That\’s despite Cody being unable to finish the story at WrestleMania 39, a loss that hit the popular Raw Superstar hard. Rhodes has even said that he doesn\’t want to be part of the next WWE 2K video game if he is unable to become a WWE World Champion.

    Unusual WWE Video Game Characters

    Ribbie, a delicious BBQ rib, was a playable character in WWE 2K20. 

    The action-figure version of Cody Rhodes is hardly the first bizarre entry into a WWE video game. For WrestleMania 2000, fans could play as a Crash Test Dummy, not to be confused with then-Hardcore Champion Crash Holly. Al Snow was a part of WWF Attitude, as was \’Head\’ which for the game had grown hands and feet and hovered at head height above the canvas. 

    Colonel Sanders would bring his finger-lickin\’ fury to WWEK 2K18 while WWE 2K20 saw the inclusion of \’Ribbie\’ a BBQ rib brought to life who serves as the mascot for a minor league baseball team referenced in the game\’s story mode. 

  • AEW\’s MJF & Alicia Atout Celebrating Milestone In Their Relationship

    Former AEW World Champion MJF and Alicia Atout are celebrating after hitting the one-year mark in their relationship. 

    Taking to Twitter, Atout made it clear that there is nobody else she\’d rather have by her side. Atout also made it clear that she loves MJF, even if her descriptors for the AEW wrestler were hardly complimentary. 

    MJF & Alicia Atout

    Atout and MJF met during their respective runs in Major League Wrestling, where Atout worked as a backstage interviewer. The pair would also interact on Atout\’s A Music Block Yeah (AMBY) vlog when MJF was active on the independent circuit.

    While the pair are celebrating one year of their relationship, much of that time has been kept out of the public eye. It was only when the pair were spotted at a baseball game together in late 2023 that rumors circulated of a relationship. In November 2023, the couple went public with their relationship. 

    Past Relationships

    MJF had previously been engaged to artist Naomi Rosenblum. During a fiery promo segment in early 2023 with Bryan Danielson, MJF said that his fiancé dumped him since he wanted to have kids with her. It was later confirmed that the breakup was legitimate and not an angle for the feud with Danielson. 

    Atout was previously in a relationship with Richard Holliday. She managed Holliday during their time in MLW. It would appear that Atout and Holliday ended their relationship at some point in 2023. 

  • How Much Did Scott D\’Amore Offer Anthem to Purchase TNA Wrestling?

    Scott D\’Amore was willing to pay big money to purchase TNA Wrestling and save his role with the promotion in the process. 

    D\’Amore was fired as TNA President by Anthem Entertainment, TNA\’s parent company, earlier this month. The Team Canada alum has been replaced by Anthony Cicione, Anthem\’s President, in an effort to strengthen ties between the two parties. The decision to cut D\’Amore has been met with backlash. TNA\’s roster has issued a letter to Anthem, expressing their views on the matter. 

    Purchasing TNA Wrestling

    Shortly before his exit from TNA Wrestling, D\’Amore attempted to purchase the company from Anthem. While the figure was not disclosed at the time of his departure, it was said to be a serious offer with the backing of a major financial institution. 

    D\’Amore offered $10 million to acquire TNA Wrestling, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported this week. In addition to this, Scott offered to take on all existing debts. Anthem turned down the offer out-right without a counter offer being made. The D’Amore group believed the company value was between $7 million and $12 million.

    What\’s Next?

    A meeting will take place at this week\’s tapings of TNA Wrestling and it is believed the D\’Amore situation will be addressed. Some in TNA believe that Len Asper, the head of Anthem, will be at the meeting. 

    With or without D\’Amore, TNA will move on ahead with its weekly entertainment. On March 8, the promotion will host its Sacrifice pay-per-view from Windsor, Ontario, Canada. The show will be TNA\’s second PPV since relaunching at last month\’s Hard to Kill show.

  • Elimination Chamber 2024: WWE Stars Entertain At Rowdy Perth Press Conference

    The Superstars of WWE certainly put on a show at this week\’s press conference ahead of the Elimination Chamber: Perth event. 

    The February 24, Premium Live Event will be WWE\’s first PLE in Australia since 2018. Understandably, the excitement in Perth is at a fever pitch ahead of tomorrow\’s show. The show will feature two Elimination Chamber matches, with the Men\’s and Women\’s winners challenging for the World Heavyweight and Women\’s World Championships at WrestleMania 40. 

    Elimination Chamber Press Conference

    Some of WWE\’s top Superstars made their presence felt at the press conference. World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins led the Aussie crowd in trashing The Rock. Rollins & Cody Rhodes will be guests on the Grayson Waller Effect tomorrow. 

    Things got heated between Men\’s Chamber participants Kevin Owens and U.S. Champion Logan Paul which resulted in Triple H having to step in. 

    Becky Lynch and Bianca Belair, both of whom will compete in the Women\’s Chamber Match, also came face-to-face in a tense stare down.

    WWE Women\’s World Champion Rhea Ripley certainly had the crowd on her side when she came face-to-face with her upcoming opponent Nia Jax.

    And finally, Australia\’s own Rhea Ripley and Grayson Waller celebrated WWE coming to Perth with the Australian good-luck tradition of doing a \’Shoey.\’ 

    WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth

    Here is the card for WWE Elimination Chamber: Perth as it currently stands:

    • Kick-off Show: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) (c) vs. Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae (WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championships)
    • The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest) (c) vs. New Catch Republic (Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) (Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships)
    • Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair vs. Liv Morgan vs. Tiffany Stratton vs. Naomi vs. Raquel Rodriguez (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE Women\’s World Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)
    • Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Nia Jax (WWE Women\’s World Championship)
    • Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton vs. Bobby Lashley vs. LA Knight vs. Kevin Owens vs. Logan Paul (Elimination Chamber Match for a WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at WWE WrestleMania 40)