SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • ESPN’s Chris Fowler Botches John Cena and Brock Lesnar Names Ahead of Wrestlepalooza

    WWE and ESPN have entered a major partnership that begins this weekend with WWE Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis. The stacked event is expected to feature what many believe will be the final showdown between John Cena and Brock Lesnar. However, ESPN’s Chris Fowler appeared unfamiliar with the two icons while promoting the show.

    Sayna vs. Lester

    During a broadcast, Fowler mispronounced their names, referring to Cena as “John Sayna” and Lesnar as “Brock Lester.” Between them, the two Superstars hold 27 World Championships and four Royal Rumble victories, making the blunder all the more noticeable.

    Fans on X quickly mocked Fowler’s slip, calling it an awkward way to kick off WWE’s new partnership with ESPN.

    Cena and Lesnar were part of the same OVW class and both debuted on WWE’s main roster in 2002. Their rivalry reignited in 2012 following Lesnar’s return, with Cena defeating him in his first match back.

    Now, the two legends are set to meet once more. With Cena’s retirement tour nearing its end, this encounter is widely expected to be their last. Fans can anticipate a memorable clash at Wrestlepalooza—and hopefully, Fowler will have the names right this time.

    WWE Wrestlepalooza, the inaugural premium live event on the the ESPN app, streams live this Saturday, September 20 starting at 7PM ET.

    Watch: Brock Lesnar Suffers Hilarious Accident On SmackDown

  • Bret Hart Wishes He\’d KO\’d Triple H After The Montreal Screwjob

    Bret Hart infamously gave Vince McMahon a black eye after being “screwed” at Survivor Series 1997, but the Hitman now wishes he could have landed another knockout punch. Speaking in Manchester at an Inside The Ropes event, Hart revealed he would have liked to knock out Triple H as well, speculating that WWE’s history might have been very different if he had.

    “Triple H, I wish he’d been in the dressing room when I knocked Vince out… because he might not be married to Stephanie [today].\”

    Hart has often been critical of Triple H, now WWE’s Chief Content Officer and one of the most influential figures behind the scenes. Addressing a packed crowd at New Century Hall, Hart described Triple H as “a guy I had very little respect for” and claimed there wasn’t a single match from WWE’s “King of Kings” that he would consider great.

    The Hitman branded Triple H a “phony” who “became Vince’s hit guy” during his WWE career. Returning to the events of Montreal, Hart placed Triple H among those who “screwed” him before and during Survivor Series 1997.

    “They were all such scumbags. Triple H, Shawn [Michaels], Vince [McMahon]. They were set out to destroy me.”

    Hart acknowledged that speaking so candidly about WWE’s CCO may not help his chances of working with the company again. Still, he once more made it clear that he has little regard for the 14-time WWE World Champion.

    Bret Hart Knocks GUNTHER’s In-Ring Style, Calls Him ‘Unprofessional’




  • Bret Hart Was Sure He\’d Failed WWE Tryout

    Bret Hart may be WWE’s first and only three-time Hall of Famer, but his career with the company had an uncertain beginning. Speaking at an Inside The Ropes event in Manchester, Hart recalled his first WWE match, which he wrestled while injured.

    Determined not to miss the opportunity, he competed despite having a bad knee—a decision he quickly regretted.

    \”He totally ignored me… I knew then they I\’d failed my audition… It was a big mistake wrestling with a bad knee.\”

    What made the experience worse was seeing McMahon praise Dynamite Kid Tom Billington, who was also trying out that night. Fortunately, Hart’s second WWE match went much better, setting the stage for his legendary career as a multi-time World Champion.

    After establishing himself in WWE, Hart was turned heel and paired with Jim Neidhart. While Hart embraced the change—since heels typically called the matches for their babyface opponents—his father Stu wasn’t pleased.

    \”He thought they\’d turn me into a heel in a way to p*ss him off.\”

    Despite Stu’s reservations, Hart enjoyed showing a more villainous side in the ring. His mother, meanwhile, loved the new persona and had fun watching her son play dirty when she and Stu were able to see their son in action in person.

    \”[I\’d say] You shut your face you old b***h… She had so much fun watching me cheat the whole match.\”

    Today, Hart is remembered as “the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be,” having excelled for decades as both a hero and a villain in WWE.

    Bret Hart Feels Underappreciated by WWE After SummerSlam Snub











  • Nigel McGuinness & Partner Expecting First Child: Our Crumpet is Toasting!

    Nigel McGuinness is thriving both in and out of AEW, and now the British star has shared some major personal news. On Instagram, McGuinness’ partner, Kaori Takee, revealed that the couple is expecting a child. Alongside photos of the two together—featuring a visibly pregnant Takee—she wrote that “something magical has happened” and playfully referenced Nigel’s English roots by adding, “our crumpet is toasting.”

    The announcement was quickly met with an outpouring of congratulations from fans and colleagues across the wrestling world. WWE’s Natalya shared her best wishes, while AEW’s Taya Valkyrie expressed her excitement. Dustin Rhodes, PROGRESS Wrestling, and Jimmy Jacobs were among others who also sent messages of support.

    McGuinness and Takee are the latest to join wrestling’s wave of baby announcements in 2025. Pete Dunne and his partner Demi welcomed another child in May, Roman Reigns became a father for the sixth time in July, Naomi stepped away from her WWE Women’s World Title reign due to pregnancy, and Mark Briscoe celebrated the arrival of a baby boy in August.

    This is a joyful new chapter for McGuinness and Takee as they prepare for parenthood. Everyone at SEScoops sends their congratulations and best wishes to the couple at this exciting time.

    Couple Names Baby After Joe Hendry

  • Dax Harwood Says He’ll Retire if FTR Loses at AEW All Out

    Dax Harwood is ready to put it all on the line at AEW All Out in his and Cash Wheeler’s efforts to take down Adam “Cope” Copeland and Christian Cage. A fan recently asked Harwood on X what his plan would be if he and Cash came up short against the pair of former World Champions. Showing just how serious he is about the match, Harwood replied: “I’ll retire from being an in-ring competitor.”

    FTR turned on Copeland at AEW Dynasty in April after the group failed to win the AEW Trios Titles from the Death Riders. Following the loss, the pair delivered a piledriver to Copeland, and Wheeler added a brutal con-chair-to. On the following episode of Collision, FTR explained their actions, accusing Copeland of being selfish and only caring about himself.

    With his former allies determined to destroy him, Copeland has formed an uneasy alliance with Christian Cage, despite their long and turbulent history. Once celebrated as one of the greatest tag teams of all time, the two now face the challenge of whether they can truly co-exist.

    Whether Harwood will follow through on his retirement vow if FTR loses at All Out remains to be seen, but his comments make it clear how high the stakes are. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from AEW All Out, including breaking news and live results.

    FTR Refutes Jake Hager’s Claims About Tony Khan And Talent Meeting

  • WWE Referee Reveals Harrassment & Threats Over Misinterpreted Post

    A single post on X from WWE referee Daphanie LaShaunn led to harassment and threats, according to the official. LaShaunn initially shared a message that read, “It’s not goodbye, it’s see ya later,” alongside a broken heart emoji. Many fans interpreted this as a sign that she had left WWE, prompting her to issue a clarification.

    Despite her explanation, LaShaunn’s follow-up received a mixed response. Some fans expressed condolences, while others criticized her for being unclear. In another post, LaShaunn revealed that the situation escalated, claiming she was harassed and threatened. Disturbingly, she shared that some individuals went as far as saying they would spit on her late grandmother’s grave.

    LaShaunn’s experience highlights the ongoing issue of online harassment in wrestling. In June, Elayna Black publicly called out fans for harassing her, reminding them she is a human being. Days later, Rhea Ripley revealed that a fan had shown up at her home in a frightening encounter.

    As LaShaunn mourns the loss of her grandmother, she should not have to endure this type of abuse from fans. Our thoughts are with Daphanie during this difficult time.

    Skye Blue Grateful For Support After Being Harassed By Unruly Fan At AEW/ROH Event

  • AJ Lee Grateful For Fans As In-Ring Return At WrestlePalooza Nears

    AJ Lee will compete for the first time in over a decade at WWE WrestlePalooza, in one of the year’s most anticipated matches. Ahead of teaming with CM Punk to face Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, Lee has expressed her gratitude to the fans eager to see her return.

    On X, Lee reacted to a compilation of emotional fans watching her comeback during the September 5 episode of WWE SmackDown. Thankful for the outpouring of support, she wrote that “you all made my year.”

    Lee’s return has been a talking point since her departure from WWE in 2015. With years of tension between WWE and her husband CM Punk, many believed she would never step back into a WWE ring. Now, not only is she back, but a new contract ensures fans will be seeing much more of AJ Lee on WWE programming.

    Despite her decade-long absence, Lee’s bond with wrestling fans never faded. With her in-ring return just days away, the former Divas Champion remains deeply appreciative of those who have supported her every step of the way.

    Roxanne Perez: AJ Lee Is Wrestling’s Greatest Return

  • John Cena On Movie Casting: When Fans Are Loud, Someone Hears

    John Cena has found a home in the DC Comics Cinematic Universe, and now the Peacemaker star wants fans to use their voices. At the recent Boston Fan Expo, the WWE \”GOAT\” was asked who he hopes will don the cape and cowl of Batman in the shared universe helmed by James Gunn.

    \”Gosh, I would just like to see Peacemaker and Batman in the in the same room. Uh I don\’t care who Batman is. I might get one of my old younger brothers to put on a Batman costume. I\’ll steal the Peacemaker outfit just so we can make it happen.\”

    While Robert Pattinson portrayed the Dark Knight in 2022’s critically acclaimed The Batman, it’s believed that a different actor will take on the role in Gunn’s universe. Whoever that may be, Cena hopes fans will have their say in the casting.

    \”If I\’ve learned one thing about entertainment, when you guys are interested, eventually someone hears you. So, I\’m crossing my fingers and hopefully that can happen.\”

    Cena first entered the DC world in 2021 with The Suicide Squad, portraying Christopher \”Peacemaker\” Smith. The jingoistic antihero is willing to kill as many people as he deems necessary in his twisted pursuit of world peace. Since then, Smith has headlined his own Peacemaker series, also overseen by Gunn.

    With Gunn’s DC Universe recently scoring another success with Superman, fans are optimistic about the future of several beloved characters. As for Cena, he continues to carve out his niche as Peacemaker—while quietly hoping for a showdown with the Caped Crusader.

    James Gunn Reveals Dave Bautista Was His First Choice for Peacemaker Before John Cena

  • Title Match Official For Wrestlepalooza After Delayed Contract Signing

    A major title match for WWE Wrestlepalooza has finally been made official, just days before the highly anticipated event airs on ESPN. On Instagram, IYO SKY confirmed that the contract for her bout with Stephanie Vaquer has been signed. The two will meet in Indianapolis on September 20 to crown the next WWE Women’s World Champion.

    The contract signing was originally scheduled for the September 8 episode of WWE Raw but did not take place, leaving both fans and talent questioning the reason. Rumors circulated that Vaquer was dealing with an injury, though the former NXT Women’s Champion later denied those claims.

    With the paperwork now complete, SKY and Vaquer will battle for the title vacated by Naomi following her pregnancy announcement. SKY is a former champion, while Vaquer earned her spot in the title match by winning a battle royal at WWE Evolution. Vaquer was initially slated to challenge for the championship at Clash in Paris before Naomi’s pregnancy reshaped the title picture, but she will now finally get her opportunity at Wrestlepalooza.

    Will SKY reclaim the championship she held for much of 2025, including a successful defense at WrestleMania 41? Or will Vaquer seize the moment and establish herself as a force on the main roster? Stay tuned to SEScoops for full coverage of WWE Wrestlepalooza.

  • LA Knight Justifies WWE Raw Attack On Jey Uso: Now We\’re Even

    Payback was the theme for Jey Uso on the September 15 episode of WWE Raw, where he was blindsided by LA Knight. In the closing moments of the show, Jey and Knight shared a handshake—only for Knight to drop the former World Heavyweight Champion with his signature BFT.

    Backstage after the show, Knight explained his actions. Rather than a shocking betrayal of his tag team partner in the main event against Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker, Knight said he was simply evening the score after being speared by Jey the previous week.

    \”I came out with the outcome I wanted. Cos I wanted that other little taste, that receipt you were talking about. Yeah, I got that back, right there! Dropping you on your head. And guess what? At this point, now we\’re good. Now we\’re even. Now walk off into the sunset and I wish you the best.

    Whether this leads to a one-on-one showdown between the two remains to be seen. If that’s the plan, it won’t happen at WWE Wrestlepalooza. At the upcoming PLE, Jey and his brother Jimmy Uso are set to face Reed and Breakker. Knight isn’t currently booked, but that may not stop him from pursuing his growing feud with “Main Event” Jey.

    With two of WWE Raw\’s top stars expected to collide soon, fans can expect some heavy hitting if Jey doesn\’t feel he\’s \’even\’ with LA Knight after this attack.

    LA Knight: A WWE World Title Run Is In My Future

  • Andrade Thanks WWE Following Exit

    Andrade’s time with WWE has officially come to an end, though the former NXT Champion appears to be leaving without hard feelings—at least publicly. Taking to X, Andrade expressed his gratitude to WWE now that his second run with the company has concluded.

    It wasn\’t just X where Andrade shared his gratitude to WWE. Taking to Instagram, the former Superstar again shared that he appreciates all WWE has done for him.

    Andrade\’s profile was moved to WWE.com\’s Alumni section, an act that left fans believing his time had ended. Fightful Select later confirmed the news, marking the end of Andrade\’s second run, less than two years after his surprise comeback in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match.

    While Andrade’s public statement suggested no ill will toward WWE, reports indicate that the situation behind the scenes was more complicated. According to The Takedown on Sports Illustrated, Andrade was “effectively released” by WWE in what was described as a non-mutual decision. The report also noted that Andrade had not been backstage at TV tapings for nearly a month, further signaling a disconnect between him and the company.

    Andrade’s departure has already sparked reactions across the wrestling world. AEW’s MJF referenced him in a post on X while promoting a match against Mistico.

    With his WWE run over and his AEW tenure in the past, Andrade’s next move remains uncertain. Whether he returns to Mexico or pursues opportunities elsewhere, the future of the former NXT Champion will be closely watched.

    Charlotte Flair Opens Up On Andrade Divorce

  • Young Bucks Warned By Betrayed Former Ally With Mystery Note

    The Young Bucks\’ are continuing to rack up wins on AEW programming, but now the brothers have a ghost from their past to deal with. During the latest episode of Being The Elite, the brothers tried to double their recent $500,000 winfall. The Bucks won their money during the September 10 edition of AEW Dynamite as part of the show\’s stacked ten-man tag-team main event.

    Unfortunately for the Bucks, gambling their money did not prove fruitful. In the closing moments of the vlog, a mysterious package was discovered in their suitcase. Inside was a knife accompanied by a chilling note that read: “For the next time you want to stab me in the back.”

    Given the Bucks’ past actions, there’s no shortage of individuals who might feel betrayed by the brothers. One possibility is Kenny Omega, who was ousted from The Elite by the Bucks in 2024. If so, this could signal that Omega is seeking revenge on the men who were once his closest allies.

    Whatever the note’s origin, it could mean troubling times ahead for the Young Bucks. Despite their current streak of three consecutive wins on AEW weekly programming, the duo may need to watch their backs both inside and outside the ring.

    AEW’s The Young Bucks Discussing Starting A New Wrestling Promotion

  • Jerry Lawler Recalls Stroke, Happened In His Sleep

    Jerry “The King” Lawler is dealing with the serious effects of a recent stroke, the latest health setback for the WWE Hall of Famer. On Friday, September 12, Lawler suffered a stroke at his home in Florida. Speaking to Action News 5, Lawler recalled the moment he realized something was wrong.

    “I knew something was bad wrong at that time, but I didn’t feel it happening when it was happening. It just happened while I was asleep and when I woke up, I knew I had to call somebody so they could get there and help me out with the situation.\”

    As a result, Lawler has withdrawn from planned events for the next month. While fans may be disappointed by his absence, it’s clear that The King must put his health first.

    This marks Lawler’s third stroke in the past seven years and comes just two years after he suffered one at his home in February 2023. He previously suffered his first stroke in 2018, and many fans remember the heart attack he experienced live during WWE Raw in September 2012.

    Lawler’s situation highlights the importance of prioritizing health, as both past and recent health issues continue to affect him. We at SEScoops send our best wishes to Jerry Lawler during his recovery.

    Jerry Lawler Opens Up About Memory Loss After 2023 Stroke

  • Rey & Dominik Mysterio Trade Barbs After Dom\’s Historic AAA Championship Win

    Dominik Mysterio is now pulling double duty as both the WWE Intercontinental Champion and the brand-new AAA Mega Champion — and his latest win has only escalated his feud with his legendary father, Rey Mysterio. Shortly after the event, Rey took to Instagram to remind his son that he wasn’t the first young Mysterio to hold multiple championships at once.

    Dominik wasted no time firing back with trademark sarcasm, highlighting that his father never held the AAA Mega Championship.

    \”Good job son. Maybe one day you’ll be as great as me. Now post a pic of you holding the AAA Mega Championship ?\”

    Dominik\’s victory at Worlds Collide saw him dethrone El Hijo del Vikingo to win the gold, much to the delight of the AAA crowd who are far from fond of Vikingo. After the match, Dominik had Rey place the title around his waist before ordering his father out of the ring.

    This war of words is the latest development in the Rey-Dominik feud that has been simmering for over three years. Dominik turned on his father at WWE Clash At The Castle 2022 in Cardiff, Wales, following Rey and Edge\’s win over the Judgment Day. Dominik would join the faction shortly after, where he remains a member to this day.

    Now, with two championships around his waist, Dominik’s stock is at an all-time high. Meanwhile, Rey is inching closer to an in-ring return, and another clash between father and son feels inevitable.

    Rey Mysterio’s Daughter, Tatanka’s Sons, Training With WWE Stars

  • Jake Hager Shuts Down Idea Of WWE Royal Rumble Return

    Jake Hager’s time in AEW may be over, but fans hoping for a WWE comeback shouldn’t hold their breath. Speaking with Sportskeeda\’s WrestleBinge, the former World Heavyweight Champion dismissed the idea of entering a future Men’s Royal Rumble match, saying bluntly

    \”I don\’t think they like me very much.\” When pressed to clarify, Hager didn’t name names, instead replying \”Whoever books the Royal Rumble.\”

    Hager, then competing under the name Jack Swagger, made his Royal Rumble debut in 2010 as the #26 entrant. His run was short-lived, as John Cena tossed him out in just over two minutes. His last Rumble outing came in 2016, when he entered at #24 but was eliminated in just 15 seconds by Brock Lesnar.

    After leaving WWE in 2017, Hager transitioned to mixed martial arts, signing with Bellator MMA. Fighting under his real name, he went unbeaten with a professional record of 3-0 (1 NC) between 2019 and 2020. His debut win came via first-round submission at Bellator 214.

    Hager\’s comments come after he shared that he finished with pro wrestling and has started his own trucking company based out of Tampa, Florida. Hager himself isn\’t driving the trucks in his new company \’Hauling Oats\’ but is overseeing those who do.

    Since finishing up with AEW in 2024 and reportedly turning down a new contract, Hager has been outspoken about his dissatisfaction with the company, even admitting he regrets his run there. Now, the former “All-American American” has shifted gears entirely, meaning fans shouldn\’t expect an in-ring return.

    Jake Hager Rips Tony Khan: “He Can’t Make Himself A Sandwich, Let Alone Write A Storyline That Will Last”

  • Boxer Ricky Hatton, Former WWE Raw Host, Dead Aged 46

    Hatton also worked with Floyd Mayweather, another boxing name with ties to pro wrestling., We at SEScoops would like to share our condolences to his family at this sad time.

    Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, the former world boxing champion who made a memorable crossover into WWE in 2009, has died at the age of 46. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers were called to an address in Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 a.m. local time on Sunday, September 14, where they discovered Hatton’s body. Authorities have stated that his death is not being treated as suspicious.

    Hatton was one of the fiercest and most popular boxers of his generation, achieving major success in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions. His career peaked in 2005, when he defeated Kostya Tszyu in Manchester to claim the IBF light-welterweight championship — a win that cemented him as a British sporting hero.

    In the world of professional wrestling, Hatton made a guest appearance as host of WWE Monday Night Raw in Sheffield in 2009. During the broadcast, he stepped into the ring for a special “boxer vs. wrestler” match against Chavo Guerrero. The match ended with Hatton knocking out Guerrero to a thunderous ovation from the UK crowd.

    Rest in peace, Ricky Hatton.

    Boxing Champ Amir Khan Wants To Be WWE’s Next Crossover Star

  • Rhea Ripley \’Killed\’ By Art The Clown In Dream Come True

    Rhea Ripley has been brutally \’killed\’ by Art the Clown, in a dream come true for the former WWE Women\’s World Champion. Appearing at Silver Scream Con, Ripley shared the stage with the star of the Terrifier film series, played in the films David Howard Thornton.

    After some tensions between the two when Art grabbed Ripley\’s Labubu toy, Ripley slapped Art, only to be slapped in return. This sent Ripley to the floor and a cleaver shot to the WWE Superstar finished her off. Individuals dressed as medical staff would carry away Ripley\’s lifeless body

    But Ripley’s untimely demise didn’t stop her from taking to social media. Shortly after the convention stunt, the WWE Superstar posted on X to share her excitement about the moment, calling it a dream come true.

    Ripley has long been vocal about her love for the Terrifier franchise and its villain, Art the Clown. She has even expressed interest in being killed by Art in a future film. Recently, Ripley and Art collaborated on exclusive merchandise, with themed shirts available at Hot Topic.

    Despite taking a cleaver to the head, fans won’t have to wait long to see Ripley again. She remains a key part of WWE Raw, where she’s been feuding with another face-painted demon — Asuka. Her appearance at Silver Scream Con is the latest reminder that Ripley’s popularity extends far beyond the wrestling ring.

    CM Punk Slams Insane Behavior As Fans Mob Rhea Ripley

  • Jillian Hall Denies Claim WWE Gimmick Parodied Brooke Hogan

    In WWE, Jillian Hall is best remembered for her over-the-top gimmick as a terrible singer who believed she was destined for pop stardom. For years, many assumed the character was a jab at Brooke Hogan, who was pursuing a music career at the time with support from her father, Hulk Hogan.

    While speaking on Ring the Belle, Jillian was asked about how the gimmick came about. The former WWE Divas Champion refuted the notion that the character was any sort of swipe at Brooke.

    “I don’t know where all these people get that I was making fun of Brooke Hogan. That is so ridiculous. Untrue. Rumor. Bye.”

    Instead, Hall explained that the gimmick originated at a WWE house show during a planned “best body” contest. Backstage, Ashley Massaro and Michelle McCool overheard her singing and encouraged her to turn it into a way to rile up the crowd. With the approval of agent Fit Finlay, Hall put the idea to the test.

    \”I took the mic and I did my thing. I said, ‘I didn’t come here to take off my clothes. I came here to sing.’ And I got the biggest boo of the night.\”

    From that point on, Hall’s “pop star” persona became a staple of her WWE career. She even reprised the character in the 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble match, once again belting out off-key notes to the dismay of fans. Now, Hall has made it clear: the infamous gimmick wasn’t aimed at Brooke Hogan — it was all in the name of entertainment.

  • Shawn Michaels Rules Out Return, Reveals Upcoming Surgery

    Shawn Michaels’ in-ring career is long behind him — and now the two-time WWE Hall of Famer is preparing for major surgery. Speaking on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, Michaels was asked about the possibility of one more match. His answer was blunt: “Not a chance.”

    Michaels, now the head of WWE NXT, recalled his years of injuries, including a fused back and a replaced shoulder. HBK also revealed that a double knee replacement surgery is scheduled within weeks.

     \”I got two knees that I’m getting replaced in, probably a month.\”

    Despite the toll wrestling has taken on his body, Michaels has no regrets about his career. Michaels acknowledged that \”I knew the price that was going to come along with it\” but that he enjoyed every minute of being an active pro wrestler.

    With WWE expected to bring in major names for WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh, fans should not expect HBK to be among them. Instead, Michaels’ focus remains on shaping the next generation of WWE talent through NXT — the latest chapter in a legendary career.

    Shawn Michaels: Cody Rhodes’ Work Is A Huge Comfort in WWE

  • Thunder Rosa: WWE in Saudi Arabia Won\’t Change Society

    WrestleMania 43 is officially headed to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the biggest step yet in WWE’s partnership with the kingdom. At the press conference announcing the event, Bianca Belair offered her perspective on what the move means for women in wrestling.

    “[Saudi Arabia is] a space specifically for women to make amazing moments.”

    The role of women’s wrestling in Saudi Arabia has often been a hot-button topic, and AEW star Thunder Rosa weighed in with a much more critical take. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Rosa argued that WWE’s deal with Saudi Arabia ultimately comes down to money.

    “They give them money. We’re gonna give you a show. That’s it. The stakeholders are calling the shots. And you have to go for what they tell you to do.”

    While Rosa acknowledged the progress WWE’s women have made by competing in Saudi Arabia, she questioned whether those milestones create any lasting societal change.

    “You’re not gonna change how society looks at women in these countries. This is part of historical religions and everything else.”

    The announcement of WrestleMania 43 has already been met with backlash online, with many fans echoing Rosa’s belief that money is the driving factor. With less than two years to go before WWE’s biggest event of the year lights up Riyadh, the company faces an uphill battle convincing parts of its fanbase that the move is more than financial.

    Fans Rally Behind UK WrestleMania After Riyadh Announcement

  • Anthony Bowens Says Lack of AEW TV Time Leaves Him Overlooked

    Anthony Bowens has spoken out about what he sees as a lack of television time in AEW, saying it has left him “overlooked” by many. Responding to a supporter who called him underrated and urged AEW to “let him run with it,” Bowens explained why he feels overlooked. The former Tag Team Champion argued that his absence from longer matches has prevented him from fully showcasing his ability in the ring.

    Bowens signed a five-year contract with AEW in November 2020 alongside Max Caster. Together, The Acclaimed captured the AEW Tag Team Championships in 2022 before later teaming with “Daddy Ass” Billy Gunn to win the AEW Trios Championships. Their trios title reign lasted 238 days — still the longest in company history.

    His recent comments arrive at a pivotal point in his career. On the September 13 episode of Collision, Bowens and Caster crossed paths backstage for the first time in months. A fight broke out, ending only after Jerry Lynn intervened, reminding both men they were stronger as a team than as rivals.

    Whether this moment sparks a reunion remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Anthony Bowens wants more opportunities — and longer matches — to prove his worth in AEW.

    Anthony Bowens Misses Collision Taping Due To Paradise Fire

  • Details Behind Andrade\’s WWE Exit After 2024 Return

    Andrade is gone from WWE once again, with his second stint ending less than two years after his January 2024 return. New details have now emerged about the circumstances surrounding his departure.

    According to The Takedown on SI, Andrade was effectively released by WWE, and the decision was not mutual. Sources indicated he had not been backstage at TV tapings for nearly a month, and by Saturday afternoon multiple talents had been informed that he had been let go.

    Unlike many past roster cuts, Andrade’s release was not tied to budget reductions. PW Insider’s Mike Johnson also confirmed the news, reporting that it was WWE’s decision to part ways. The Takedown on SI reached out to the company for comment but did not receive a response.

    Andrade rejoined WWE as part of the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match following a turbulent run in AEW. During this second tenure, he captured the WWE Speed Championship and nearly won the 2025 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Carmelo Hayes.

    His final WWE appearance came at SummerSlam 2025, where he competed in the six-team TLC match for the Tag Team Championships, ultimately won by the Wyatt Sicks. At the show, Andrade teamed with Rey Fenix, who joined WWE this year.

    With his WWE run now over and AEW potentially hesitant to bring him back, questions remain about Andrade’s next move. Whether he heads back to Mexico, explores opportunities in Japan, or takes time away from wrestling, the future of El Idolo is once again uncertain.

    Charlotte Flair Opens Up On Andrade Divorce

  • Andrade Gone From WWE, Profile Moved to Alumni Section

    Andrade has parted ways with WWE once again, officially ending his second stint with the company. Fightful Select first reported the news, and fans can now see Andrade’s profile moved from the active roster to the “Alumni” section of WWE.com.

    This marks the second time Andrade has left WWE. Originally released in 2021, he made a surprise comeback in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble match. During his latest run, Andrade captured the WWE Speed Championship and came close to victory in the 2025 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Carmelo Hayes.

    With Andrade’s departure, speculation immediately turns to what’s next. From 2021 to 2023, he wrestled in AEW but never won a championship. His run there was marred by inconsistency and a backstage altercation with Sammy Guevara in 2022, which took place shortly after the infamous “Brawl Out” incident. That history may make AEW hesitant to bring him back following his latest WWE exit.

    Andrade’s final WWE appearance came at SummerSlam 2025, competing in the six-team TLC match for the Tag Team Championships, which was ultimately won by the Wyatt Sicks. For now, Andrade’s future remains uncertain. Whether he resurfaces in AEW, returns to CMLL, or pursues opportunities elsewhere, his time inside a WWE ring has come to a close once again.

    Charlotte Flair Opens Up On Andrade Divorce

  • New WWE Performance Center Under Construction in Orlando, FL

    A new WWE Performance Center is in the works, in the promotion\’s latest effort to hone its Superstars of the future. During his appearance on Nightcap with Unc & Ocho, Triple H revealed that WWE is in the process of building a brand-new Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.

    “It’s in Orlando. We’re in the process of building a new one now in Orlando. It’ll be even bigger and better. Our main offices are in Connecticut and L.A., but Orlando’s the developmental.”

    The current WWE Performance Center, located at 5055 Forsyth Commerce Road in Orlando, opened its doors in July 2013. Some of WWE\’s current top stars honed their skills in the Performance Center including Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, and many more.

    In July of this year, WWE and AAA shared plans for a Performance Center in Mexico, which will hone lucha talent and give them a taste of the WWE style of doing things. With another PC planned for Orlando, WWE again demonstrates that it is ready to stack the deck with young talent to hone for the future.

    Time will tell how long it\’ll take for the second Orlando Performance Center to go from idea to opening day. What is clear is that WWE is sparing no expense with the development of stars.

    CM Punk Eyeing Leadership Role At WWE Performance Center

  • Nikki Bella: Asuka Match Shows How The Industry Has Changed

    WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella battled Asuka during the September 8, episode of WWE Raw, in a match that did far more than showcase two female talents. Speaking on her Nikki and Brie Show podcast, Nikki shared how the match demonstrated how wrestling has changed, allowing older women to demonstrate their skills, in stark contrast to how things used to be.

    \”When you look at Asuka and I\’s match, you have two women in their 40s, moms – this used to only be men they would let at this stage doing things.\”

    Nikki added that she was \”truly honored\” to share the ring with Asuka, who recently marked a decade since singing with WWE in September 2015.

    WWE, and the wider wrestling world has, more so in the past, taken an issue with women growing older. Women in their late 30s and 40s have often been cast aside, while the same isn\’t the case for their male counterparts of the same age. Earlier this year, Charlotte Flair told the Players Tribune that this age gap remains an issue.

    \”There are people in this industry who already consider me old. Nevermind that I’m literally younger than Cody, who is considered the face of the company, and Roman, who is probably our biggest star.\”

    For Nikki Bella, she is grateful that she was given time in the ring with Asuka, as both women proved that age is often just a number in the ring. While many believe there is still more work to be done, Nikki is ready to prove herself as a mom and as a professional wrestler.

    Wade Barrett & Nikki Bella Smooth Things Over After “Desperate” Line