SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • WWE Warned LA Knight That He May Be Just a Flavor Of the Month

    LA Knight has become one of WWE\’s most popular Superstars competing today, despite some thinking at first he\’d just be the flavor of the month. 

    2023 saw a dramatic rise in popularity for the former Max Dupri, who kicked off the year the Pitch Black match at the Royal Rumble event. Throughout the year, Knight\’s popularity continued to grow as fans continued to rally behind the veteran. At WWE Crown Jewel, Knight challenged Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns but failed to dethrone the Tribal Chief.

    Flavor of the Month

    LA Knight is one of WWE\’s top stars right now, but not everybody had high hopes for the megastar. Speaking to Chris Van Vliet of Insight, Knight recalled WWE higher-ups being hesitant to go all in on him. 

    \”There was skepticism at first. Is this really a thing? Is this just going to be a flash in the pan? Is this going to be a flavor of the month? And that\’s a thing we had talked about and was even talked about with me. \’Well, we don\’t want to give it to you too soon because then they might get over it.\’ Look, fine. If that\’s the case and I\’m not good enough to carry that, cool, let\’s go with that.

    \”I understand the idea of wanting to protect me at some point as well. But I have the belief in myself that I could pivot and move and adapt to whatever the situation is. You don\’t want to give it to him too soon but if try and not give it to him at all, come on man. I feel like I\’m better than that. And I don\’t mean that in a boisterous way, but I\’m confident in what I do. I\’m confident in my skills. And at the same time, I want to be able to fail. Because when I fail, I get back up.\”

    When Van Vliet rejected the notion that Knight has failed, the megastar corrected him and shared how crazy the past year has been. 

    \”I\’ve failed a million times but this year has been crazy… Apparently, I\’ve been married twice this year as well. [Chris says Congratulations] Thank you, even though I\’m not married.\”

    An Overnight Success? 

    While Knight\’s rise in WWE has been dramatic, this chapter is just the latest in his lengthy career. On the show, Knight explained how his success was both an overnight sensation as wel as something that was a long time coming. 

    \”It was but it wasn\’t. It was 20 years, but then it was an overnight success. It was 20 years to get the overnight success basically because all of a sudden you\’ve got– anywhere I\’ve been any other company, had a fraction of the audience we have now. So to any of the uninitiated, most of them are seeing me for the first time. So in a certain way, it is an overnight success to the broader audience.\”

    La Knight will challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at the Royal Rumble, as will Randy Orton and AJ Styles. Roman Reigns is understandly not happy about this… 

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

  • The Undertaker Shares Hilarious First Reaction to Mick Foley as Dude Love

    The Undertaker may have faced giants, kings, and even himself, but nothing could have prepared him for the enigmatic Dude Love persona. 

    The oldest of Mick Foley\’s iconic characters, the WWE Hall of Famer first crafted Dude Love while still in his youth. The fun-loving character was brought to the WWF years later after Foley had competed around the world as the ultra-violent Cactus Jack and the tortured soul known as Mankind. 

    The Undertaker Reacts to Dude Love

    On a recent episode of his Six Feet Under podcast, The Undertaker spoke about the Dude Love persona. The Phenom recalled seeing Dude Love for the first time and questioning how he\’d ever sold for Mick. 

    \”I remember when he started doing Dude Love. He passed me in the hall and he could tell by the look on my face…I\’ve sold more for him than anybody ever. We\’ve been through hell and back together. Then here he is…Dude Love and all this tie-dyed stuff.

    \”He was getting into character and he was walking down the hall. Then he\’d seen me and then he\’d seen the look on my face. I\’ll never forget him just dropping his head and walking by [like] \’I\’m sorry.\’ It\’s like, \’I can\’t believe I sold for you.\’\”

    Mick Foley & The Undertaker

    The Undertaker and Dude Love never faced off, but Mick Foley shared the ring several times with The Undertaker. The pair\’s most iconic match came in Pittsburgh at the 1998 King of the Ring event, where the pair battled in, and on top of Hell in a Cell. 

  • Latest on Giovanni Vinci After Injury On Day 1 Episode of WWE Raw

    Fans won\’t be seeing Giovanni Vinci in the ring for some time after the Imperium member suffered an injury during last week\’s episode of Raw. 

    During the Day 1 episode of WWE Raw, Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser faced the tag-team experts Jey Uso and Kofi Kingston. The match came to a sudden conclusion when Kingston dropkicked Vinci and his head caught the back of the mat on the way down. After a consultation, medical officials at ringside determined that Vinci couldn\’t compete. The match ended without a winner being determined. 

    Update on Giovanni Vinci

    During this week\’s Raw, it was announced that Vinci would be out for \”a number of weeks\” due to the situation that unfolded on last week\’s Raw. WWE has still not publicly disclosed details about the issue with Vinci. On Twitter, the Italian Superstar told fans \”Sto bene. Grazie mille\” which means \”I\’m fine, thanks a lot.\”

    A Feud Brewing?

    On this week\’s Raw, Ludwig Kaiser showed a new level of aggression in his singles match with Kofi Kingston. The match ended with a double count-out as Kaiser was attacking Kingston on the outside of the ring and would not stop to break the ref\’s ten-count. 

    On social media, WWE shared footage of Kingston being taken backstage after the match. It was noted that Kingston is being evaluated by medical staff but an update on his condition is not public knowledge at this time. 

    Ludwig Kaiser was recently the victim of a sweet-treat incident at a WWE live event… 

  • Grayson Waller is \”Fearing for His Life\” Thanks to Madman Punching People in WWE

    WWE SmackDown Superstar Grayson Waller is \’fearing for his life\’ due to a string of attacks, but it\’s not CM Punk who\’s to blame. 

    In a video shared on Twitter, Waller spoke about his issues with Kevin Owens. The prizefighter made a surprise appearance on last week\’s WWE NXT and attacked Waller during his match with Trick Williams. 

    “2024 hasn’t really started off the way that I was hoping for. Last Tuesday, I go to NXT because Ilja Dragunov is too scared to fight Trick Williams, and I save the show. You’re welcome, Shawn Michaels. But what thanks do I get? I get assaulted, punched in the face by Kevin Owens for no reason at all.\”

    Waller then spoke about being at SmackDown in Vancouver, where he saw U.S. Champion Logan Paul suffer a similar fate. 

    “I got cuts inside my lip, my jaw is sore. What do I see while I’m watching the show? Kevin Owens punches Logan Paul, the United States Champion, in the face for no reason at all. Me and Theory had enough. We go and check on Logan backstage. Because you know what? We’re starting to fear for our lives backstage. There’s a madman running around punching people.”

    Waller\’s comment about fearing for his life is an obvious nod to CM Punk\’s release from AEW in September of last year. Addressing an AEW Collision crowd in Chicago after Punk\’s release, Tony Khan claimed he was left fearing for his life during the Punk-Jack Perry altercation at AEW All In. 

    This isn\’t the first time that Grayson Waller has poked fun at CM Punk\’s exit from AEW… 

    H/T – WrestleZone

  • AEW\’s Swerve Strickland Lands Role In Upcoming Slasher Movie

    The star power of Swerve Strickland is only continuing to grow with the AEW wrestler landing a role in an upcoming slasher movie. 

    Strickland will star in \’Stiletto\’, a new film from Samuel Gonzalez Jr. which will see Gigi Gustin (Night of the Missing) star and produce. Other names attached to the film include Charlotte McKinney (Fantasy Island), Colleen Camp (Amsterdam, American Hustle), Pancho Moler (3 from Hell), Tyler Abron (Fear), and Stephen Blackehart (Guardians of the Galaxy)

    A plot summary for the film reads as follows: 

    “A year after the grisly murder of a local exotic dancer, the victim’s sister, Lyric [Gustin], searches for the serial killer responsible as he stalks and kills his favorite dancers on the night of the anniversary.”

    It is unclear what role Strickland will have in the film. He is being represented by Fourth Wall Management and this will be his feature film debut. 

    What\’s Next for Swerve Strickland? 

    While Strickland has yet to hold singles gold in AEW, many feel his time will come, possibly this year. Last month, Strickland declared that he will be AEW\’s first African American World Champion, a goal he plans on achieving in 2024. Whatever Strickland\’s future holds, it seemingly won\’t include Keith Lee. The former allies were set to face off at Worlds End before Lee was pulled from the show due to a persistent injury. Speaking after the event, Strickland said he was done waiting for the Limitless One. 

  • First Look at New TNA World Tag Team Championships

    Fans have caught their first glimpse of the new TNA World Tag Team Championships, ahead of the promotion\’s official relaunch at Hard to Kill.

    It was announced in the closing moment of Bound for Glory 2023 that IMPACT would be rebranding as TNA. This news has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. Reigning World Champion Alex Shelley told SE Scoops that the reaction has even taken some in IMPACT/TNA by surprise. 

    New TNA World Tag Team Championships

    In a video shared to YouTube, TNA President Scott D\’Amore spoke to reigning World Tag Team Champions ABC. D\’Amore spoke about watching Chris Bey and Ace Austin grow up in the promotion, before revealing the new TNA World Tag Team Championships. 

    Fans will be immediately drawn to the bright red strap of the new TNA World Tag Team Titles. Each title has a total of five silver plates with the center plate being ornated with various patterns, as well as the TNA Wrestling logo. 

    What\’s Next? 

    ABC may be the proud holders of the TNA World Tag Team Championships, but their time with the new titles may be short-lived. At TNA Hard to Kill, ABC will defend the gold in a four-way tag-team match. They will be challenged by The Rascalz (Zachary Wentz and Trey Miguel), Speedball Mountain (Mike Bailey and Trent Seven), and the debuting former WWE tag-team of the Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake).

    These new Tag Team Championships aren\’t the only titles to get a makeover… 

  • \”Please Be Careful!\” Kota Ibushi Warns Fans of \”Scam\” Clinic Operating in Tokyo

    AEW\’s Kota Ibushi has hit out at a clinic in the Asakusabashi district of Tokyo, Japan, which he claims is little more than a scam. 

    In a tweet that has since been deleted, Ibushi speaks about being presented with a strange powder during a procedure. Ibushi added that the \’scam\’ is charging people 200,000 yen per visit, equivalent to $1384 USD. 

    “As for the details of the C5 clinic scam that I mentioned before, it starts with an IV drip, but when it doesn\’t work midway through, they bring a strange powder (marijuana) without permission, so isn\’t this a problem for the police? This is a fraudulent clinic that operates in Asakusabashi and all over the country. Please be careful as it will take about 200,000 yen per time.\”

    You can see Ibushi\’s deleted post below. 

    Kota Ibushi\’s Injury

    Fans won\’t be seeing Kota Ibushi in the ring for some time after suffering an injury during a recent match for Pro Wrestling NOAH.  Ibushi was seen clutching his foot after a moonsault, and reportedly walked into the match with an injury. Ibushi was rushed to hospital after the match. NOAH would later give an update on Ibushi, who suffered a right tibiofibular ligament tear and a right ankle lateral ligament complex injury. The Japanese wrestler has confirmed that he will have surgery to deal with this situation. There is no word on when he can be expected back in the ring. 

    SEScoops wishes Kota Ibushi a speedy recovery.

  • Bayley Gifts NFL\’s San Francisco 49ers Custom WWE Belt to George Kittle

    WWE Superstar Bayley recently showed her support for the San Francisco 49ers at the team\’s recent game against the Los Angeles Rams. 

    Not only did Bayley attend the game, but she brought one of the WWE Legacy Championship titles, which featured the branding and colors of the 49ers. WWE entered a multi-year deal with the NFL last year that has seen custom titles created for each team.  

    The Role Model also helped psyche up the crowd in the pre-game festivities, as seen in the clip below. 

    Despite Bayley\’s support, the 49ers would lose to the Rams in a close-fought game which ended with the Rams winning 21-20. 

    George Kittle and Wrestling

    Kittle will be thrilled to have received this title given that he is a known fan of WWE. Earlier in the 2023 season, he wore an Edge shirt ahead of a Monday Night Football game. Kittle also appeared at WrestleMania 39 and would help Pat McAfee defeat The Miz. 

    Speaking to Rich Eisen after his appearance, Kittle said that he\’s been hoping for something with WWE for some time and was pleased to help out \”one of the boys.\” Kittle admitted that appearing at WrestleMania was the second-most anxiety-inducing experience of his life, only being beaten by singing with Kelly Clarkson. 

    Kittle added that he was worried about clotheslining The Miz, and was encouraged to hit harder than he thought was needed. Sure enough, Kittle decked the two-time WWE Grand Slam Champion and would help get the Miz back in the ring. 

  • Matt Hardy Blasts \”Pathetic\” Fans Creating Narrative That Jeff Isn\’t A Good Wrestler

    AEW\’s Matt Hardy has hit back at \’haters\’ who have taken aim at his brother Jeff following a mistake on the most recent episode of Rampage. 

    The January 5, edition of AEW Rampage saw the Hardyz team with Mark Briscoe for the first time in their careers. The trio of tag-team specialists proved to be quite the group as they defeated Kip Sabian, The Butcher, and The Blade. 

    Jeff\’s Mistake & Matt Reacts

    During the match, Jeff attempted to jump off his brother\’s back but slipped in an awkward moment. Many fans leapt onto this mistake on social media and have attempted to make it into a big deal. Not every fan has acted this way, however, and one sarcastically commented that the world was going to end because Jeff made a mistake. Replying to this tweet, Matt pointed out that mistakes are bound to happen. The veteran also had some choice words about those trying to create a \’narrative.\’

    Speaking about a Whisper in the Wind spot from Jeff\’s return to AEW that was \’botched\’, Matt claimed that this was supposed to be messed up to show some ring-rust on his brother\’s behalf. Matt also made it clear he\’s extremely proud of what his brother has been doing. 

    Jeff joined AEW in 2022 following his controversial release from WWE the previous year. In June of 2022, Hardy was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. The case against Hardy was later dropped due to unreliable breath test results and he returned to programming in April 2023.

  • Triple H Shares Generous Offer to NFL Legend & Wrestling Superfan Shannon Sharpe

    Shannon Sharpe and the crew of the Nightcap Show are more than welcome to visit a WWE event anytime after the NFL legend shared his love for the wrestling business. 

    During a recent episode of the Nightcap Show, the topic of wrestling came up. Sharpe spoke about growing up watching Georgia Championship Wrestling and named some of the stars of the era he loved to watch. Sharpe recalled traveling across Georgia with his family to see the likes of Dusty Rhodes, Bobo Brazil, Ox Baker, Andre the Giant, Harley Race, and Nick Bockwinkel. 

    Taking to Twitter, Triple H was impressed by Sharpe\’s love of the business. In a tweet, the Game appreciated Sharpe\’s passion and said that he and the Nightcap Show crew are welcome to attend a WWE event any place any time. 

    Shannon Sharpe

    Regarded as one of the greatest tight ends of all time, Sharpe is best known for his time with the Denver Broncos, who he played for from 1990 to 1999 and later from 2002 to 2003. Sharpe holds the record for the most receiving yards in a game by a tight end (214) and is a three-time Super Bowl Champion (twice with the Broncos and once with the Baltimore Ravens). 

    WWE & The NFL

    Despite Vince McMahon being the founder of the XFL, WWE and the NFL have close ties. Not only are several Superstars former football players, but WWE entered a multi-year licensing deal with the NFL last year to create team-themed titles. Last month, Liv Morgan gifted one of these titles to the Green Bay Packers ahead of their win over Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs. 

  • ESPN Responds After Pat McAfee Claims Executive \”Rat\” is Sabotaging Show

    ESPN has responded to recent accusations by Pat McAfee stemming from alleged sabotage of his popular talk show. 

    In May 2023, McAfee signed a multi-million dollar deal with ESPN to bring his show to the sports channel. This deal saw McAfee leave a lucrative contract with FanDuel in which he was set to earn $120 million over four years.

    ESPN Responds to Pat McAfee

    During a recent episode of his show, McAfee claimed that some in ESPN were trying to sabotage his efforts. The WWE correspondent called out ESPN executive Norby Williamson, claiming he is a \”rat\” leaking false information. 

    In a statement, ESPN said the following: 

    \”No one is more committed to and invested in ESPN’s success than Norby Williamson. At the same time, we are thrilled with the multi-platform success that we have seen from The Pat McAfee Show across ESPN. We will handle this matter internally and have no further comment.\”

    Pat McAfee Show Controversy

    McAfee\’s show recently saw criticism after Aaron Rodgers made baseless claims that Jimmy Kimmel would be named on the list of those who traveled to the island of Jeffrey Epstein. So far, no hard evidence has proven Rodgers\’ claim, and several fake lists shared online have been debunked. McAfee made no effort to challenge Rodgers on his claim. 

    Corey Graves took it personally when Pat McAfee replaced him on SmackDown. Click here to find out more. 

  • Chris Masters Hopeful for Opportunity in WWE, AEW, or TNA Wrestling

    Chris Masters is ready to take his skills to a larger stage than the NWA and has set his sights on AEW, IMPACT, and WWE. 

    The Masterpiece is best known for his time with WWE from 2005 to 2007 and his subsequent run from 2009 to 2011. He has also competed in IMPACT Wrestling and the NWA and is a two-time NWA National Champion. 

    Chris Masters Wants To See What\’s Out There

    In a video shared on his Instagram, Masters spoke about wanting to see what\’s out there beyond the realities of the NWA. 

    “[I’m looking to] see what’s out there for me. The last couple years I’ve been at NWA, [I’ve been] trying to develop myself and kind of evolve my character in every way I possibly could. And now I’d like to bring that to AEW, Impact Wrestling, and of course, WWE.”

    Masters recently shared a video of himself making his entrance at an event. With the caption \”and now the participant who drew number 2\”, Masters was referring to a surprise return in the Men\’s Royal Rumble match. 

    Chris Masters and Returning to WWE

    This isn\’t the first time Masters has made his intentions to return to WWE very clear. In late 2022, Masters spoke about a potential feud with Bobby Lashley, which would see a battle of the Full Nelson submission hold. In January, Lashley said he\’d love to face Masters, though a match has yet to happen. 

    Chris Masters was seriously worried about his reputation after his WWE debut match went horribly wrong. Click here to find out more. 

  • Matt Striker Regrets ‘Wrong’ & ‘Tone Deaf’ Defense of Matt Riddle

    MLW commentator Matt Striker has responded to the backlash from comments he made during Matt Riddle\’s first match back with the promotion. 

    At MLW\’s Kings of Colosseum show, Riddle defeated Jacob Fatu. This was the former WWE United States Champion\’s first match since being released from WWE in September 2023. After the match, the two men shared a sign of respect. 

    Matt Striker\’s Comments

    Striker was commentating on the match and was impressed with what he was seeing from Riddle. During part of the match, Stiker said the following: 

    \”How do you let this guy go? This guy is a star, a mega-million dollar star. I don’t care what he does. How do you let him go?\”

    Many have taken issue with Striker\’s comment about not caring what Riddle\’s done. Riddle has faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct including from his ex-girlfriend Daniella Petrow. Riddle was also accused of sexual misconduct in 2020 by wrestler Candy Cartwright. While Riddle admitted to having an affair with Cartwright, he claimed it was entirely consensual. This affair led to Riddle\’s marriage to his ex-wife Lisa ending. A legal case by Cartwright against Riddle and others was dropped in 2021.

    Later in the match, Striker doubled down on his comment about Riddle being able to do whatever he wanted. 

    \”He can do whatever he wants, he can kick your ass. Anyone out there (has) got a problem with him, step to him out on the street, watch what happens. End of conversation.\” 

    Matt Striker Responds

    Striker\’s comments during the show have faced a backlash, with many taking issue with the notion that somebody accused of sexual misconduct can do \”whatever he wants.\” On Twitter, Striker reflected on what he had said. 

    https://twitter.com/MLBMattStriker/status/1744006398776627545

    At this time, MLW has not commented publicly on Striker\’s comments or his subsequent tweet. MLW\’s next major event will be Intimidation Games on February 29. 

    Matt Riddle recently showed up in New Japan and already has laid out a challenge to a huge star. Click here to find out more. 

  • Jinder Mahal Challenges The Rock to a Match in India After Showdown on Raw

    WWE Superstar Jinder Mahal is eager to step into the ring with The Rock once again, after their collision on this week\’s episode of Raw. 

    The Brahma Bull returned to WWE programming during this week\’s Day 1 edition of Raw to an eclectic response from the crowd. WWE had been teasing the return of a former WWE Champion in the days before the show, which at first appeared to be Mahal. The Modern-Day Maharaja ran down the United States before the return of The Rock, who had some choice words for his fellow former WWE Champion. The Rock then laid out Mahal with a spinebuster and his People\’s Elbow. 

    Jinder Mahal Challenges The Rock

    The Rock may have handily dispatched of Mahal on Raw, but now the 3MB alum is ready for another shot at the Great One. Speaking to WWE Super Dhamaal, Mahal has praise for his own efforts on Day 1 Raw. 

    “I had many good points before Rock even came out. I was feeling confident until I was on the receiving end of, you know, Rock gave me a spinebuster. Up until then, I really believed that I had The Rock. You know, I had his confidence choked. I could see the look in his eyes. You know, I am the Modern Day Maharaja, he may be The People’s Champion, they were cheering him on. For someone who had no respect from the crowd, I think I did really well.\”

    Mahal then made his intentions clear and challenged the Brahma Bull to a match. 

    \”I want to issue a challenge to The Rock. Anytime in India, you can step into the ring with The Modern Day Maharaja.”

    https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1743894248024609054

    After dealing with Mahal, The Rock teased going after Roman Reigns\’ role as Head of the Table. Click here to check out the reaction from the Tribal Chief. 

  • PAC Expected Back Soon In AEW After Missing Months Of Action

    AEW star PAC is set to make his return soon after close to half a year out of action with an injury. 

    During a virtual signing for Highspots, Penta El Zero Miedo recently stated that PAC will be back in AEW soon. During a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that the British wrestler is indeed expected to return in the not-too-distant future. 

    \”He\’s back soon, I know that.\”

    PAC\’s most recent match took place on the July 26, episode of AEW Dynamite, where he faced Gravity. In August, it was announced that PAC had suffered an injury, though it was unclear what sort of injury he was facing. This has been the latest setback for PAC, who was out of action from March to July of last year. That hiatus was because he needed to get a nose injury fixed. 

    PAC in AEW

    After his tenure with WWE as Neville ended in 2018, PAC joined AEW on January 8, 2019, one week after the promotion was announced. At AEW\’s inaugural rally, PAC confronted \’Hangman\’ Adam Page, setting up a match for Double or Nothing. That match wouldn\’t take place however as it was scrapped due to \”creative differences.\” 

    In June 2022, PAC became the first AEW All-Atlantic Champion, which is today known as the AEW International Championship. He is also part of Death Triangle with Rey Fenix and Penta. He is a former AEW World Trios Champion and the first AEW star to be a double champion. 

  • NJPW Talent\’s Contract Set to Expire Later This Month

    A prominent name will be leaving New Japan Pro Wrestling at some time this month, until a new deal can be reached very soon. 

    The contract of Alex Coughlin is set to expire this month, Fightful Select has reported. Coughlin is a current member of the Bullet Club and joined the faction in June of last year. 

    Alex Coughlin in New Japan

    At NJPW Independence Day 2021: Night One, Coughlin teamed with Gabe Kidd to capture the NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships. The pair defeated Bishamon to win the titles, the first taste of New Japan gold for either man. The pair would hold the gold until October\’s Destruction in Ry?goku where they lost the titles to Guerrillas of Destiny.

    Coughlin Outside of New Japan

    In addition to his work with NJPW, Coughlin is known for his work with Ring of Honor. After appearing a few times in 2019, Coughlin returned to ROH in April 2023 and would team with Katsuyori Shibata, to defeat The Workhorsemen. After the match, Coughlin pointed at Shibata\’s ROH Pure Championship, teasing a future match. That match would happen in June and saw Shibata retain the Pure Championship. 

    Coughlin has also appeared for AEW. He made his debut on the May 10, 2022, edition of Dark . He and other members of the LA Dojo would save LA Dojo’s The DKC and Kevin Knight from a post-match attack by The Factory. At the AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door Buy-In show, Coughlin teamed with Yuya Uemura, The DKC, and Kevin Knight in a losing effort to Max Caster, Billy Gunn, Austin Gunn, and Colten Gunn.

  • Mariah May Affected by Fire, Interesting Name at Collision, Kurt Angle Cameo & More

    New AEW Trademark Filing

    The fans of AEW will have a chance to \’Get the Feeling\’ thanks to a new trademark filing by the promotion. This week, AEW filed a trademark for the phrase for its use on merchandise, as well as at professional wrestling events. At this time, there\’s no word on what \’Get the Feeling\’ will mean for the on-screen product. 

    Interesting Name at AEW Collision

    The January 6, 2024, edition of AEW Collision featured some top names, including Adam Copeland, Ric Flair, and Sting, but a different WWE Hall of Famer remained backstage. PW Insider reports that former NWA United States Heavyweight Champion Magnum TA was backstage at the Collision taping in Charlotte, NC. 

    Kurt Angle\’s AEW Cameo

    Kurt Angle has made it clear he\’s a WWE guy, but that didn\’t stop the Olympian from making a cameo for AEW this week. On Twitter, Stokely Hathaway shared a Cameo featuring Angle, in which he claims that Hathaway is a changed man to Willow Nightingale and Kris Statlander. It seems Kurt didn\’t stop recording when he should have, as the video ends with Angle asking Stokely where\’s his money. 

    https://twitter.com/StokelyHathaway/status/1743696461047406826

    Mariah May Home Affected By Fire

    Mariah May looked to set the wrestling world on fire during her AEW in-ring debut this week before the debuting Deonna Purrazzo interrupted. On Twitter, May shared that the place she lives suffered a fire. Fortunately, everyone is okay and the hunky firefighters proved to be a silver lining for the British wrestler. 

  • Unique Reason Why Most Serious Charge Against Liv Morgan Was Dropped

    A unique technicality was crucial for the most serious drug-related charge against WWE Superstar being dropped this week. 

    Morgan was arrested on December 14th in Sumter County, Florida, following a traffic stop and was charged with possession of drugs, possibly synthetic cannabinoids. She was also charged with marijuana possession, not exceeding 20 grams, and possession of drug equipment.

    Why the Charge Was Dropped

    This week, the possession of drugs, possibly synthetic cannabinoids charge was dropped against Morgan, which will come as a huge relief to the Superstar. This was the most serious charge against the former SmackDown Women\’s Champion. 

    The decision to drop the charge came as a surprise to many, but there is a reason for this. An Assistant State Attorney in Sumter County told KOMO News that to prove the charge, the State is required to prove that the THC came from synthetic sources and was not derived from plant sources. No labs in the State of Florida perform such tests, so it was remanded to county court as possession of cannabis. 

    With no labs to perform the test, this charge was dropped. In a statement to The Messenger, Morgan\’s attorney Jack Goldberg said: 

    \”We are extremely pleased that the State Attorney\’s office made the correct decision to not purse felony charges against Gionna [Morgan].\”

    What\’s Next? 

    The charge of possession of marijuana, less than 20 grams, is a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida. It can be punishable by up to one year in jail or on probation, along with a $1,000 fine. Conviction of possession also results in a six-month driving license suspension, random drug testing, and the reimbursement of all fees related to the sentence. There is no heat on Morgan for this arrest within WWE. 

  • \”F*** Them! Show Them!\” Mustafa Ali Says He Was Told No-One Would Chant His Name in Emotional Promo

    Mustafa Ali is ready to prove all his doubters wrong as he made clear during his first promo at a wrestling event following his WWE exit. 

    Ali was among those cut from WWE in September 2023, as part of the first wave of talent cuts following the launch of TKO Group Holdings. Ali\’s release came as a surprise given that he was in the middle of a storyline in WWE NXT. There had been plans for Ali to win the NXT North American Championship before being cut. 

    Mustafa Ali Post-WWE Promo

    After waiting out his 90-day non-compete clause, Ali made his return to action this weekend as part of an event at the APC 20th Anniversary event in Nanterre, France. Speaking to the fans after the match, Ali addressed what he\’s been told in the past and made clear he\’s ready to prove his doubters wrong. 

    \”For more than the past 90 days [I\’ve thought], what\’s the first thing I want to say? And it\’s as simple as this and if I tear up I apologize from the bottom of my heart. Every upper management that I have ever worked for in this industry has told me to my face that no one will ever cheer for someone named Mustafa Ali. [Fans boo, one says \”f**k them!\”] No, even better than f**k them, show them!

    \”And if those people are watching, right now I\’m in a sold-out house in APC. And every single person in this building is chanting Mustafa Ali! I\’m going to leave the ring with one more point. This is what I want in the industry. I want change in the industry. I want guys that are a certain level to reach down and pull people up.

    \”The young man, the young man that I just shared the ring with, let me tell you something. I have shared the ring with Rey Mysterio! I have been in the ring with AJ Styles! Name them, I\’ve been in the ring with them and you my good man are just as good as them. It was an absolute honor to perform here. I landed this morning and I have not slept and I don\’t give a s**t because this gives me life! Thank you all, good night, I love you.\”

    Where will Mustafa Ali compete next? Click here to find out more about the former Superstar\’s massive schedule. 

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

  • Cody Rhodes Just Agreed to be the Best Man at a WWE Fan\’s Wedding

    Cody Rhodes is focused on \’finishing the story\’ and becoming Undisputed WWE Universal Champion but will make time out of his schedule to be a fan\’s Best Man. 

    At a WWE live event in Spokane, Washington, Rhodes picked up a victory over Shinsuke Nakamura. After the match, Rhodes spotted a fan\’s sign, asking the American Nightmare to be the Best Man at their upcoming wedding. Cody agreed, much to the delight of the Washington crowd. 

    Cody\’s Connection with the Fans

    This is hardly the first time that Cody Rhodes has made a unique connection with a member of the WWE Universe. For the final live Raw of 2023, Rhodes gifted a fan an entire Christmas tree which had been part of the stage. This generosity came mere weeks after Rhodes purchased WWE tickets for a family of fans to ensure they saw him in action live. More recently, Rhodes has shared his generosity with the kids of the popular \’The Wrestling Club.\’ Rhodes recently purchased tickets and a hotel for the club of KIPP AMP Middle School students to attend WrestleMania 40. 

    WWE Live Event – Spokane, WA

    Here are the results for the WWE live event in Spokane, Washington:

    • LA Knight defeated Jimmy Uso (w/Solo Sikoa)
    • Brutus Creed defeated JD McDonagh
    • Bianca Belair, Shotzi, and Becky Lynch defeated Damage Ctrl (Asuka, Kairi Sane, and WWE Women\’s Champion Iyo Sky)
    • Cody Rhodes defeated Shinsuke Nakamura (Street Fight)

  • Watch: Hook is Coming for Samoa Joe & the AEW World Championship

    Hook may already be the reigning FTW Champion, but the second-generation wrestler feels it is now time to add the AEW World Title to his collection. 

    This week\’s AEW Collision was the first of the new year and the first episode following last weekend\’s AEW Worlds End pay-per-view. At that event, Samoa Joe won the AEW World Championship from MJF, ending the latter\’s record-breaking reign. After the match, Adam Cole would be revealed as the Devil with Matt Taven, Mike Bennett, Roderick Strong, and Wardlow as his minions. 

    Hook is Coming for Samoa Joe

    During this week\’s AEW Collision, FTW Champion Hook appeared and pointed out that his win/loss record in the promotion is second to none. Hook added that it\’s time for him to go after another championship. Hook went on to say that thanks to \’personal connections\’ he\’s had a close eye on the person he has his crosshairs on. Hook ended his promo by making it clear he\’s coming for Samoa Joe and his AEW World Championship. 

    Hook in AEW

    Hook debuted for AEW in 2020 and wasted no time in aligning himself with his father Taz as part of Team Taz. It wouldn\’t be until December of 2021 that Hook made his in-ring debut, besting Fuego Del Sol on an episode of Rampage. 

    Hook is a two-time FTW Champion, a title introduced by his father in the original ECW. Hook\’s current reign began with his victory over Jack Perry during the AEW All In Zero Hour pre-show. 

  • Tyler Bate is \”Here to Stay\” After Making WWE SmackDown Debut

    Tyler Bate is looking forward to a lengthy future on SmackDown after arriving on the scene during this week\’s episode. 

    The January 5, 2024, episode of SmackDown was the show\’s New Year\’s Revolution special and was the final show of WWE\’s stacked first week of 2024 programming. In the show\’s main event, Randy Orton, AJ Styles, and LA Knight competed for a shot at Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Thanks to interference from The Bloodline, no winner would be determined, and Nick Aldis\’ announcement of a fatal four-way match would infuriate the Tribal Chief. 

    Tyler Bate is Here to Stay

    On this week\’s SmackDown, Bate made his debut as the mystery tag-team partner of Butch. The pair of former WWE United Kingdom Champions proved to team together seamlessly and got the victory over Pretty Deadly. 

    In a post-match interview, Bate shared his thoughts on finally making it to the blue brand. The Big Strong Boi also stated that he was here to stay after making his debut. 

    ”Finally, it’s been a long time coming but the big strong boi has finally arrived on SmackDown, and I am here to stay!\”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/reel:C1vkGjsMo00

    Tyler Bate on The Main Roster

    Bate\’s arrival this week shouldn\’t come as a huge surprise to fans. Last month, it was reported that WWE was considering bringing Bate to the main roster. While Bate is smaller than many on the main roster, his size isn\’t considered as big a deal now with Vince McMahon no longer running WWE\’s creative department. It is stated that WWE CCO Paul \’Triple H\’ Levesque is far more open-minded as to who can be a top star.

  • Dutch Mantell Lucky To Be Alive After \”50/50 Chance\” of Surviving Medical Emergency

    \’Dirty\’ Dutch Mantell is fortunate to be alive after being given bad odds of surviving a recent medical emergency. 

    Mantell began his career in wrestling in the 1970s and would achieve success in various promotions, including the NWA. For more modern-day fans, Mantell is best known for his role as a manager. During WWE\’s New Generation, he managed the Blu Brothers as Uncle Zebekiah and would manage Jack Swagger in the 2010s as Zeb Colter. 

    Dutch Mantell is Lucky to be Alive

    On the most recent episode of his Storytime podcast, Mantell spoke about being unable to stay awake during his recent birthday and said his daughter Amanda noticed other signs something was wrong. 

    \”She said I kept giving her gibberish answers that made no sense. She was looking at me funny and this continued for like an hour or two. Finally, she said there’s something wrong and she called 911 and they came and picked me up and I don’t even remember that.\”

    Mantell explained that he was battling E. Coli and sepsis and made it clear that if he hadn\’t gone to the hospital, he would not be alive today. Mantell\’s condition, which also included a fever, meant he struggled to remember much of what happened, but knew his odds of survival weren\’t great. 

    “I was given medicine every three hours. This is what I don’t remember. I was given a blood transfusion. I don’t remember that, so it had to be serious. They did give me, I think I remember they said a 50/50 chance. I think. Don’t mark me down on that being the truth. I could have just imagined that.”

    Mantell concluded by saying he was given a large selection of medicines and instructions on what to take and when. Mantell added that he believes part of the illness may have been self-induced as he has not been taking care of himself. Mantell said he\’s hoping to avoid making the same mistake and is currently feeling good. 

  • Pat McAfee Says Some in ESPN Are Sabotaging His Show, Calls Executive a \”Rat\”

    Pat McAfee has taken aim at Norby Williams, dubbing the ESPN executive a \”rat\” who leaks false information to sabotage Pat\’s show. 

    In May 2023, McAfee signed a multi-million dollar deal with ESPN to bring his show to the sports channel. This deal saw McAfee leave a lucrative contract with FanDuel in which he was set to earn $120 million over four years. 

    Pat McAfee Accuses Norby Williamson

    On his show, McAfee spoke about having a positive relationship with ESPN for the most part. The WWE correspondent then aimed at those attempting to make the show worse and called out Williamson. 

    “I believe, Norby Williamson is the guy who is attempting to sabotage our program. Now, I’m not 100 percent sure. That is just seemingly the only human that has information, and then that information gets leaked, and it’s wrong, and it sets a narrative of what our show is.

    “Are we just gonna combat that from a rat every single time? Somebody tried to get ahead of our actual ratings release with wrong numbers 12 hours beforehand. That’s a sabotage attempt. It’s been happening this entire season from some people who didn’t necessarily love the old addition of ‘The Pat McAfee Show’ to the ESPN family. There’s a lot of those.”

    It\’s certainly a bold move for McAfee to call out Williamson like this. Calling out executives rarely works out well, as we\’ve seen in the past in the world of wrestling. McAfee\’s show recently saw criticism after Aaron Rodgers made baseless claims that Jimmy Kimmel would be named on the list of those who traveled to the island of Jeffrey Epstein. So far, no hard evidence has proven Rodgers\’ claim and several fake lists shared online have been debunked. 

  • The Rock Thanks \”Sacred Connection\” With Fans After WWE Raw Return Shatters Record

    WWE may be happy to credit the recent record-breaking views on social media to The Rock, but the man himself believes that the \’people\’ deserve the credit. 

    The Brahma Bull returned to WWE programming during this week\’s Day 1 edition of Monday Night Raw to an eclectic response from the crowd. WWE had been teasing the return of a former WWE Champion in the days before the show. During his promo, The Rock asked the fans if they\’d like to see him as Head of the Table, alluding to taking the spot held by Roman Reigns. Reigns had quite the reaction to his cousin\’s threat on social media.

    The Rock Reacts to Raw Record

    The return of the Brahma Bull has proven to be a hit with fans, as the figures on social media prove. WWE recently disclosed that in its first few days, The Rock\’s return has racked up over 171 million views across multiple platforms, a record for any WWE moment during such a timeframe. Taking to Twitter, The Rock was grateful to the fans who he argued were the ones breaking the record. 

    In a separate tweet, the Most Electrifying Man in Sports Entertainment spoke about his \”sacred connection with the people.\” The Rock added that while he\’s had some loud crowd pops in his time, the one he received on this week\’s Raw simply hit differently from the rest. 

    What\’s Next? 

    With what transpired on Raw, many feel that the long-awaited dream match between The Rock and Roman Reigns will finally happen this year. Many predict the match will happen at WrestleMania 40, though this hasn\’t been confirmed This will come as bad news to fans of Cody Rhodes, who hoped he\’d \’finish the story\’ and dethrone Reigns after his loss at WrestleMania 39. While WrestleMania 40 is seen as the ideal location by many, there are other events that WWE could choose for the Rock-Roman match if not WrestleMania 40.