SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Booker T: Nick Aldis \”Wasted\” his Time with \”Relic\” of the Past NWA

    Nick Aldis wasted some of the best years of his wrestling career with the NWA, Booker T has claimed.

    Aldis joined the NWA following the promotion\’s relaunch in 2017 and is a two-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

    Seen by many as the face of the company since its relaunch, Aldis recently publicly announced that he will be leaving when his contract expires.

    Wasted

    With Aldis departing the NWA, many have speculated on his next move, and whether he could be the face of another promotion.

    Speaking on his weekly Hall of Fame podcast, Booker T doubts that the 36-year-old will be able to be a top star again.

    \”He’s past his prime… He really wasted a lot of time trying to make that thing work.\”

    Booker T on Nick Aldis.

    Booker added that Aldis was one of the very few names with any \”recognition\” when the NWA was relaunched five years ago, but has doubts any star could have helped the NWA.

    \”I didn’t see one Nick Aldis match in the NWA. I’m gonna tell you that right now, so I’m not going to sit here and say I saw a whole lot or anything like. But to try to bring that brand back, it’s almost impossible. I mean, the NWA is a relic of what professional wrestling was back then.”

    \”To try to bring that brand back, it’s almost impossible.\”

    Booker T on the NWA.

    Aldis has been openly critical of NWA President Billy Corgan since the announcement of his departure.

    Audience

    Booker evidently doesn\’t think too highly on the NWA\’s product, no matter who is the face of the company.

    Speaking about underlying problems in the promotion, the two-time WWE Hall of Famer believes that fans have grown accustomed to a much different style of wrestling product.

    \”Nobody wants to watch wrestling like that anymore, in a little studio like that where [there’s] like no people, they’re doing the interviews after the matches like they did back in you know, Ole and Arn Anderson’s days in Minnesota. Don’t nobody want to see that.\”

    While Booker said he has nothing against the Andersons, he made it clear that the NWA needs to change in order to have a chance of surviving in today\’s market.

    World of Sport Planning UK Relaunch – Have Spoken to Nick Aldis & Mickie James

    h/t – eWrestlingNews

  • Swerve in Our Glory Splits Up at AEW Full Gear 2022

    Swerve in Our Glory appears to be done for good after failing to capture the AEW World Tag Team Championships at Full Gear 2022.

    On AEW\’s latest big event, Swerve Strickland and Keith Lee faced off against The Acclaimed, who won the titles from Swerve in Our Glory at AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam.

    This match marked The Acclaimed\’s third title defense and the first championship opportunity for Swerve in Our Glory since losing the titles in September of this year.

    The Split

    Despite appearing to be on the same page at first, issues began in the match when the team disagreed over whether to put a piece of barricade on the ring apron.

    Lee had to save his partner from being put through it, then was sent crashing through it himself by The Acclaimed.

    When The Acclaimed went for their tandem finisher, Anthony Bowens\’ arm gave out, and Lee cleaned house.

    When Strickland told Lee to use the pliers on Bowens, the big man said no, and Strickland slapped the Limitless One.

    Irate, Keith Lee helped Bowens up and walked out of the match, and The Acclaimed would hit their tandem finisher to get the win.

    The Build

    In the run-up to AEW Full Gear, there had been tension within Swerve in Our Glory, which reached its boiling point on the Pay-Per-View.

    The two have been noticeably at odds for months, and many fans have been predicting a split for some time.

    The now former tag team is expected to feud immediately on AEW programming, though it is difficult to say if they will have a Pay-Per-View match at AEW\’s next major event Revolution in March 2023.

    Swerve Strickland: AEW-Hip Hop Crossover is Attracting New Fans

  • Jim Ross References AEW All Out Backstage Fight at Full Gear

    With the investigation into the backstage fight at AEW All Out 2022 concluded, it appears that those working for the company are now able to address it.

    After an explosive media scrum in which CM Punk bashed The Elite, Colt Cabana and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page, a fight broke out backstage between The Elite against Punk and Ace Steel.

    In response, Tony Khan suspended all parties involved with the fight, though everyone except Punk and Steel has since been brought back.

    Jim Ross

    This week\’s AEW Full Gear marked the first match for the Elite since the controversy at All Out.

    Taking on the Death Triangle, the match saw Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks challenge for the AEW Trios titles they had been stripped of following All Out.

    On commentary, JR made reference to the backstage fight, saying:

    “They are going to settle this behind closed doors in a locker room or something.\”

    Jim Ross.

    The Death Triangle retained their titles at Full Gear, after Rey Fenix used a ring-bell hammer to escape from Omega\’s One-Winged Angel finisher.

    Tony Khan

    After the controversy at AEW All Out, Tony Khan was adamantly against speaking about the matter, given that it was under investigation at the time.

    With that investigation resolved, even Khan has addressed what happened, saying on the Full Gear press conference that he had no idea about what Punk was going to say at All Out.

    While Punk\’s AEW status is currently unclear, many expect that his deal will be bought out and he will be released by the promotion.

    Chris Jericho Comments on AEW All Out Brawl Between The Elite and CM Punk

  • \”F*** CM Punk\” – Fans support The Elite at AEW Full Gear 2022

    CM Punk once called himself the Voice of the Voiceless, speaking up for fans. Well, those fans made their voices heard at last night\’s AEW Full Gear Pay-Per-View.

    Punk hasn\’t been seen on AEW programming since his infamous All Out post-show media scrum in September, which was followed by a backstage fight with The Elite.

    With the investigation into the backstage fight over, it is believed the results have condemned Punk, who is expected to depart the promotion.

    The Voice of the Voiceless

    CM Punk wasn\’t at last night\’s AEW Full Gear Pay-Per-View, but The Elite made their in-ring return on the show.

    In their first match back, the trio of Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks challenged for the AEW Trios titles, which they had won at All Out.

    The Elite had been stripped of the titles due to the backstage fight, which were won by the Death Triangle on the following AEW Dynamite.

    During the much-anticipated six-man-tag at Full Gear, fans made their voices heard, chanting \”F**k CM Punk!\” during the opening moments.

    Tony Schiavone, acknowledging the chant, called the crowd \”lively\” and \”salty\” while Taz made note that the show was in New Jersey.

    The Death Triangle would retain the titles, after Rey Fenix used PAC\’s weapon of choice the ring-bell hammer, to escape Omega\’s One Winged Angel.

    On Twitter, Punk\’s former best friend Colt Cabana reacted, saying he was chanting for The Elite in the match.

    Punk mocked Cabana during the All Out media scrum, claiming that Colt shares a bank account with his mother.

    CM Punk\’s Next Move

    With CM Punk\’s name in the metaphorical dirt in AEW, it appears that his time with the promotion is about to come to an end.

    It has been reported that AEW is attempting to buy out Punk\’s contract and release him, with the roster reportedly refusing to work with him if he\’s brought back.

    Despite the belief that WWE will be the only option that can pay his high asking price, the reception within WWE to Punk possibly returning hasn\’t been much warmer.

    AEW Full Gear 2022 Results, Takeaways: Jon Moxley vs. MJF, The Elite Return

  • \”You Can\’t do Anything\” – Kurt Angle Names Injury Worse Than a Broken Neck

    Kurt Angle has dealt with countless injuries throughout his wrestling career, but none compete with back issues.

    In 1999, Angle would debut for the World Wrestling Federation and would become World Champion in under a year.

    The Olympian would leave in 2006 and join TNA Wrestling that same year.

    Back Issues

    Angle enjoyed one of the most impressive careers of all time, but had to deal with several injuries over the year.

    On this week\’s episode of The Kurt Angle Show, the WWE Hall of Famer reflected on Survivor Series 2002, and reports at the time that he would be working a lighter schedule because of his back.

    The Olympian explained that the reports at the time were true, and that he had dealt with back pain before he stepped in the ring.

    \”Ever since high school. I had some back problems in high school. But I didn\’t have any [as serious] as up until this moment. The thing is, with my back, it was really painful.\”

    Kurt added that while he\’s no stranger to a broken neck, the effect that horrific injury has on the body can\’t compare to back issues.

    \”What I want to tell you is this. Breaking my neck five times, it debilitates you, where you can\’t do certain things, especially in your arms. Your arms go numb and sometimes you lose strength in your arms.

    \”Your back controls everything. You can\’t do anything when your back is hurting\”

    Kurt Angle.

    \”But your back controls everything. You can\’t do anything when your back is hurting. I\’ll give you an example. Randy Orton just had surgery on his back. He literally couldn\’t do anything. This surgery is actually, hopefully, saving his career. But that\’s how much back problems can affect you as a pro wrestler.\”

    The Viper has been out since May and is expected to miss the rest of 2022 due to his back injury.

    Olympic Dreams

    As fans know, Kurt Angle won an Olympic Gold Medal (with a broken freakin\’ neck!) at the 1996 Summer Games in Atlanta, Georgia.

    While Kurt would tease returning to the Olympics several times in his career, he never did so, but explained why he missed the 2004 Games in Athens, Greece.

    \”I had just started training [for the Olympics] at this particular time three days a week. But what I was going to do in 2003 is take time off and train full-time for a year in the run-up to the Olympics. WWE had agreed to give me a year off. But that never happened because unfortunately in 2003, at the beginning, I broke my neck again.\”

    Instead of the Olympics, Angle feuded with Eddie Guerrero during the 2004 Games, getting a win over Latino Heat at that year\’s Summerslam.

    ‘None Of Us Were Happy’: Kurt Angle Reflects On Disappointing WrestleMania Debut

  • Braun Strowman\’s Controversial Tweets Referenced on WWE SmackDown

    Braun Strowman\’s controversial tweets did not go unnoticed during this week\’s episode of WWE SmackDown on FOX.

    Earlier this month, Strowman took aim at independent wrestling and mocked smaller, more athletic wrestlers, which he called \”flippy floppy\” wrestlers.

    This earned the backlash of fans and wrestlers alike, with Jeff Jarrett calling the former Universal Champion \”naive\” and EC3 calling his CYN co-founder \”idiotic.\”

    When confronted by others, including Will Ospreay, Strowman would backtrack on his comments, claiming he has \”mad respect\” for all wrestlers and that it was just a joke.

    SmackDown

    On SmackDown, Strowman had a backstage segment where he was confronted by Ricochet, one of many high-flying Superstars in WWE who made their name on the indies.

    Promoting their match next week, the One and Only warned Strowman not to underestimate him and referenced the tweet.

    \”I know you’re not one for big thinking. You’re looking way too far into the future because if you keep looking past these ‘flippy flipper’, your words not mine, it might come back to bite you.”

    Ricochet.

    Strowman and Ricochet, both representing the United States, will face off next week in a SmackDown World Cup Tournament semi-finals match.

    Heat

    Strowman may insist that he was just kidding with his comments, but it appears the damage has been done.

    Fightful report that while Braun has been on his best behavior when at WWE events, his only presence, dubbed \”social media Braun\” is another story.

    WWE management is said to be well aware of Braun\’s recent comments that caused so much ire, and Fightful adds that this was not part of any storyline.

    During SmackDown, Michael Cole teased that next week he would elaborate on what Strowman said on social media.

    Jake Roberts Names the Huge Mistake Braun Strowman is Making

  • AEW Confirms the Return of the House of Black

    The House of Black is set to return to AEW, and in full, the company has confirmed.

    The group officially made its debut in January of this year, initially consisting of leader Malakai Black and Brody King.

    The following month, Buddy Matthews would join the faction, which would recruit Julia Hart in May.

    The Hiatus

    At AEW All Out, Black, King and Matthews lost to the trio of Darby Allin, Sting, and Miro, and after the match, Black took a bow to the Chicago crowd.

    Many saw this as a sign of Black\’s exit from AEW, which was not the case, but the Dutch wrestler did confirm that he would be taking a break from wrestling for an unspecified time.

    Not long after, Matthews would also announce his own hiatus from wrestling, though both confirmed they would return to AEW.

    The Return

    On Twitter, AEW\’s official account shared a promo video highlighting the return of the House of Black.

    All four members of the group appear in the video, hitting moves on various victims, intermixed with clips from their work on AEW programming.

    An ominous voice warns that the human race has made \”complacency and sub-par have become both standard and rewarded.\”

    New Members?

    \"\"
    Could the House of Black be ready to welcome new members into its flock?

    The four members of the House of Black were shown, but the video may have teased bringing in new members.

    At moments in the video, masked figures were seen walking with the House of Black, which could be a sign that new members will soon be added.

    Malakai Black Shows Off Dragon Tattoo On His Head

  • CM Punk Jokes About Locker Room Brawl at AEW All Out 2022

    CM Punk has seen the funny side to the infamous backstage locker room fight from AEW All Out 2022.

    After winning his second AEW World Championship, Punk had explosive comments for The Elite, Colt Cabana and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page during the post-All Out media scrum.

    A fight backstage resulted in Punk and the Elite being stripped of the AEW World and AEW Trios titles respectively, and all parties involved in the fight were suspended.

    Seeing the Funny Side

    Punk hasn\’t appeared for AEW since All Out, but recently made his return to the world of Mixed Martial Arts, albeit as a commentator.

    Appearing at CFFC 115, Punk\’s co-commentators suggested that Punk could compete with Fury Pro Wrestling next year, but the Chicago-Made star quickly declined.

    \”I\’m bad news. You don\’t want me in the locker room.\”

    CM Punk.

    Not to be outdone, another commentator made reference to Punk\’s All Out media scrum comments, adding that he should be kept away from press conferences.

    CM Punk would also make reference to his shoulder injury suffered at AEW All Out, adding that \”everything\’s hurt.\”

    Leaving AEW

    Punk may be able to see the funny side of things now, but his actions at AEW All Out have likely cost him his job.

    After all parties involved in the backstage fight were suspended, a third-party investigation was conducted that has seemingly damned the former Champion.

    While the results of the investigation have not been made public by AEW, everyone who was suspended except Punk and Ace Steel have been brought back.

    The Elite will make their in-ring returns at tonight\’s Full Gear Pay-Per-View against AEW Trios Champions Death Triangle.

    It is believed that AEW is seeking to buy out the remainder of Punk\’s contract and release him.

    Things Between AEW and CM Punk Were Made Worse By Colt Cabana’s TV Return

  • Kevin Owens Returns on SmackDown, Joins WarGames Against the Bloodline

    Kevin Owens will step inside the iconic WarGames structure for the second time in his career after making his return to TV on this week\’s SmackDown.

    Owens had been missing from programming in recent weeks, with his most recent televised match being a six-man tag victory in September of this year.

    Return and WarGames

    This week\’s SmackDown kicked off with a segment between the Bloodline\’s Sami Zayn and The Brawling Brutes with Drew McIntyre.

    After the Honorary Uce vowed that the Bloodline will win the Men\’s WarGames match, Sheamus said that Zayn in particular wouldn\’t appreciate their fifth member.

    In the main event, Butch defeated Zayn in the SmackDown World Cup Tournament but was attacked by Solo Sikoa after the match.

    When Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns arrived to take care of business, he was confronted by the returning Owens.

    The two brawled until Owens turned his attention to Zayn, and the Tribal Chief took advantage with a Superman punch.

    Reigns\’ attempt to hit the spear did not work out, as Owens hit him with a knee to the face followed by a Stunner to send the Head of the Table reeling.

    Injury

    Owens involvement in the Men\’s WarGames match is certainly interesting considering the injury he recently suffered.

    At a WWE Sunday Night Stunner event in Madison, Wisconsin last week, Owens suffered an injury during his match with Austin Theory.

    While he was able to finish the match, Owens needed the assistance of a referee to stand afterward, and it was reported that he had suffered an MCL sprain.

    The former Universal Champion is scheduled to be on next week\’s SmackDown, the go-home episode before Survivor Series WarGames.

    Kevin Owens Names NXT Stars He Would Call If He Needs Backup

  • Plans for Two Recent WWE Signees Debuting for NXT Soon

    The WWE NXT roster is set to grow soon as two signings to the company will likely be making their TV debuts in the near future.

    In July 2021, WWE began their Next in Line program, which has see the promotion focus on signing collegiate athletes that they can mold in their own style of wrestling.

    Despite a belief that the NIL program means WWE won\’t be signing indie wrestlers anymore, NXT head Shawn Michaels has said that this isn\’t the case at all.

    The Debuts

    AJ Amrhein and Isaac Odugbesan are the next rookies in line to join NXT, according to the Wrestling Observer. Both are signings from WWE\’s Next in Line program and signed with the company earlier this year.

    Amrhein tried out for WWE at the WrestleMania 38 tryouts in April, while Odugbesan was part of the Summerslam 2022 tryouts from Nashville back in July.

    AJ Amrhein

    \"AJ

    A fitness instructor from Scottsburg, Indiana, Amrhein was a member of the acrobatics and tumbling team at Baylor University. In 2020, Amrhein was awarded Baylor\’s \’Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year\’ award and is a three-time national champion with The Bears.

    Amrhein made her in-ring debut at an NXT live event on September 24 from Citrus Park, LF. She teamed with Arianna Grace and Kiana James in a losing effort against Fallon Henley, Thea Hail, and Valentina Feroz. 

    Last month, Amrhein changed her social media profiles to Dani Palmer, which is likely to be her ring name in WWE.

    Isaac Odugbesan

    Unlike Amrhein, Odugbesan is still using his real name, though the Observer writes that this will be changed soon enough.

    Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Odugbesan has made his name as one of the best shot putters in the college ranks.

    Odugbesan placed third in the NCAA championships with a 67-2 throw and won the Eastern finals with a 68-5 throw.

    The 21-year-old placed seventh in the indoor finals earlier this year.

    Details on WWE Launching 2 New NXT Brands in 2023

  • Update on CM Punk\’s Recovery from Torn Triceps Injury (Report)

    CM Punk may have already wrestled his last match for AEW, but the former World Champion is recovering nicely.

    At AEW All Out 2022, Punk regained the AEW World Championship from Jon Moxley, but his media-scrum comments and the backstage fight led to his being suspended.

    It is believed that AEW will buy out Punk\’s contract and release him, but are trying to negotiate a non-compete clause.

    The Injury

    During his All Out match with Moxley, Punk suffered a torn triceps injury which he has undergone surgery for.

    In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter Dave Meltzer reports that Punk\’s recovery is going \”really well.\”

    Punk was reportedly advised to undergo surgery as soon as possible after the injury was confirmed, to avoid muscle atrophy.

    A torn triceps injury typically takes six months to recover from but can be longer in some instances.

    What\’s Next for Punk?

    Punk could be in fighting shape sooner than expected, but that doesn\’t mean he\’ll be welcomed back to AEW.

    During his All Out rant, Punk bashed several prominent and well-liked members of the roster, including Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks, Colt Cabana, and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page.

    It has been reported that AEW talent, including those at the top of the card, have made it clear that they will not work with Punk if he is brought back.

    The reception isn\’t much better for Punk in WWE, with some in the company saying they \”absolutely do not want\” him back, believing he\’d only cause more trouble.

    Tony Khan Praises CM Punk & Reveals if He Knew What He was Going to Say During His Media Scrum Rant

  • The Usos Succeeded in WWE \”In Spite\” of Vince McMahon

    The Usos have become one of, if not the greatest tag team in WWE history, but had to overcome much more than their opponents.

    Debuting on the main roster in 2010, Jimmy and Jey have become one of the longest-tenured teams in WWE history.

    This week, the brothers broke the record for the longest reign as WWE Tag Team Champions of all time, having held the SmackDown Tag Team Titles since July 2021.

    In Spite

    The Usos have faced and defeated some of the greatest teams in recent history, but arguably their biggest foe was Vince McMahon\’s booking.

    Speaking on After the Bell, Corey Graves recognized Jimmy and Jey\’s recent accomplishment and highlighted how they had to deal with a boss who had little interest in tag wrestling.

    \”Let\’s be honest. The old boss [Vince McMahon] looked at tag team wrestling different than the current boss [WWE\’s Head of Talent/Creative Triple H.] But the Usos began succeeding when there was an old boss when the old boss was still in charge.

    \”The Usos, in spite of the fact that it was his [McMahon\’s] never favorite flavor of ice cream, still, week after week after week, would go out there and tear the house down.\”

    Corey Graves.

    Jimmy and Jey secured their record by retaining the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles on last week\’s SmackDown against the New Day.

    What\’s Next for The Usos?

    After becoming the longest-reigning WWE Tag Champions of all time, The Usos next high-profile match won\’t be for the gold.

    Jimmy and Jey are expected to enter WarGames later this month, alongside Sami Zayn, Solo Sikoa and Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

    The Bloodline are expected face The Brawling Brutes, Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens, though there are questions about Owens\’ status given his recent MCL injury.

    Owens, a Raw Superstar, is scheduled to be on this week\’s and next week\’s episodes of SmackDown.

    3 Tag Teams Who Could Dethrone The Usos in WWE

  • Corey Graves Names Ex-United States Champion the Next \”Megastar\” of WWE

    Bruno Sammartino. Hulk Hogan. \’Stone Cold\’ Steve Austin. John Cena. Roman Reigns. Austin Theory?

    Earlier this year, it appeared that Theory was destined for greatness, having been personally endorsed by Mr. McMahon and holding the Money in the Bank contract.

    Since McMahon\’s retirement in July, things have gone downhill for Theory, who failed in his MITB contract cash-in attempt on U.S. Champion Seth Rollins last week.

    Megastar

    On this week\’s Raw, a much-more serious Theory defeated Dolph Ziggler and attacked Rollins, signaling that his feud with the latter is far from over.

    During After the Bell, Corey Graves, who called on fans to give the story a chance last week, had a huge prediction for WWE\’s youngest United States Champion.

    \”I believe in Austin Theory. I don\’t believe he\’s \’that guy\’ yet, but in my heart of hearts as a nerd who\’s spent way too much time studying the history of this business and watching it and loving it with all my being, I believe Austin Theory is the next megastar [of WWE.] And I think on Monday a lot of people started to believe as well.\”

    \”I believe Austin Theory is the next megastar.\”

    Corey Graves

    Letting things Play Out

    After Theory\’s failed cash-in attempt, fans were quick to criticize WWE for \’burying\’ the young Superstar and \’wasting\’ the contract.

    On his show, Graves noted how fans were quick to jump the gun and called it a problem that exceeds far past just Theory\’s situation.

    \”Let everything play out. Everybody loves to get ahead of themselves and jump on Twitter. \’Oh this is it! Austin Theory\’s done. He\’s buried. Why would you do this to the guy?\’ Let the story play out. This is WWE. World Wrestling Entertainment [emphasis on entertainment.]

    \”Let the story play out.\”

    Corey Graves\’ advice to fans.

    \”There is a story involved. There\’s curiosity. There\’s drama. There are red herrings. Just like any source of literature. It\’s entertainment. So let it play out. What we saw was a whole new chapter for Austin Theory.\”

    Seth Rollins

    Theory has been a main event star in recent weeks but has been working closely with Seth Rollins.

    With Roman Reigns missing from Raw on a weekly basis, the reigning U.S. Champion has taken the mantle as WWE\’s top Superstar on the red brand.

    On his show, Graves explained why Rollins is playing such an important role to elevate Theory.

    \”Rollins has been one of the mechanisms in this story, that has helped elevate Austin Theory\’s stock in the eyes of the viewers. Yes, Rollins was the one who beat him but that was an essential part of the story. What Rollins is doing simultaneously is elevating the United States Championship.\”

    While no championship rematch has been announced, Rollins and Theory are expected to feud in the coming weeks, including a possible match at Survivor Series WarGames.

    Who Produced Austin Theory’s Failed Money in the Bank Cash-in On WWE Raw?

  • Bret Hart: Punching Vince McMahon is Probably the Greatest Thing I Ever Did

    Bret Hart is a two-time WWE Hall of Famer with dozens of titles to his name, but none of it compares to giving Vince McMahon a shiner.

    After being screwed of the WWF Championship in Montreal, Hart confronted McMahon and punched his soon-to-be ex-boss, giving the then-Chairman a black eye.

    The wrestling urban legend is that Hart knocked out McMahon with his one punch.

    Dark Thoughts

    Hart being screwed out of the title came after over a decade of dedicated work for McMahon, and after Earl Hebner swore on his kids\’ lives that there\’d be no funny business.

    As you\’d expect, Hart was furious after the match, and made that clear when speaking to The Ringer.

    \”I\’m a pretty easygoing guy. But I do know that I had a lot of dark thoughts, really crazy, dark thoughts about how angry I was when that happened.\”

    The Hitman added that he initially tried to confront McMahon in his office, but felt relieved that the door was locked.

    The Greatest Thing I Ever Did

    Hart didn\’t confront the Chairman in his office, but McMahon made the brave decision to approach Hart in the locker room.

    Speaking about the punch he gave the billionaire, Hart admitted it could be seen as foolish, but he does not regret it one bit.

    \”It was probably the greatest thing I ever did, in the sense that I stood up for myself like no other wrestler ever stood up for themselves.\”

    Bret Hart.

    Hart would exit the WWF for WCW, and it wouldn\’t be until January 2020 that the Hitman next appeared on a Vince McMahon broadcast.

    What WWE Originally Planned for Bret Hart’s Return after Montreal Screwjob

    h/t – Wrestling Inc

  • Kevin Owens Booked for WWE SmackDown Despite Recent Injury

    Could Kevin Owens compete in WarGames at Survivor Series later this month despite his injury?

    At a WWE Live event, Owens suffered an injury during his match with Austin Theory which the Canadian Superstar would go on to win.

    It was later reported that Owens is dealing with a sprained MCL and has been rehabbing at WWE\’s Performance Center in Florida.

    SmackDown

    With Owens injured, many assumed that plans for him to compete at WWE\’s upcoming Premium Live Event had been canceled.

    According to PW Insider however, Owens is scheduled to be on this week’s Smackdown, despite being a Raw Superstar.

    The former Universal Champion is also scheduled for next week\’s SmackDown, which will be the go-home episode before Survivor Series WarGames.

    The original plan was for Owens to be part of the Men’s WarGames match, which would have seen him team with Drew McIntyre and the Brawling Brutes against the Bloodline.

    On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that Owens \”better heal up quick\” if he wants a chance to compete in WarGames.

    Survivor Series WarGames

    This month\’s Survivor Series will mark the first time that WarGames has been used on the main roster.

    In addition to the men\’s match, the event will also feature a women\’s match, between Team Bianca and Team Damage CTRL.

    Bayley, IYO SKY, Dakota Kai, Rhea Ripley, and Nikki Cross will face Raw Women\’s Champion Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim, and one final teammate yet to be announced.

    It has been reported that WWE is planning some \’craziness\’ in this year\’s WarGames matches, to produce footage that can be used in the future.

    Kevin Owens Opens Up About ‘Wrestler’ Promo With Drew McIntyre

  • Vince McMahon Told an NWA World Champion he Hated his \”Pasty, Flabby Body\”

    Could Trevor Murdoch have done more in WWE? Perhaps, but only if he had lost a considerable amount of weight.

    Murdoch debuted on WWE TV in 2005 as part of a tag team with Lance Cade, who he would become a three-time WWE World Tag Team Champion with.

    Murdoch was released from his contract in 2008 and would go on to compete for TNA Wrestling and more recently the NWA.

    Flabby

    Last year, Murdoch won his first of two NWA World Heavyweight Championships, dethroning Nick Aldis, who had been the face of the company since its 2017 relaunch.

    In June of this year, Murdoch would regain the title (which he\’d lose to Tyrus at NWA Hard Times 3) but the wrestler has always hoped for a main event run.

    Speaking on Foley is Pod, Mick Foley recalled a discussion between Murdoch and then-WWE CEO Vince McMahon about trying to get a push.

    \”Trevor told me that he once sat down with Mr. McMahon and said \’what can I do to catch your eye? What can I do to get to the next level?\’ And Vince looked at him and said \’I hate that pasty, flabby body of yours.\’ It\’s kind of tough when you\’re dealing with a weak genetic hand. That\’s something I know a little about.

    \”I hate that pasty, flabby body of yours.\”

    Vince McMahon to Trevor Murdoch.

    Foley added that despite these comments, he is pleased that Murdoch finally reached that top spot, albeit years later with the NWA.

    \”He was Trevor Rhodes back then, because he did look a bit like Dusty. He was a really good effective babyface. He just wanted a chance to do something… To become that guy [is difficult.] But he did. He bulked up.\”

    Of course, Murdoch\’s success in the NWA has only come about due to the booking of Billy Corgan, who has an opposite approach to body types than McMahon according to Foley.

    \”Billy likes the big brawlers on top. That\’s the good thing about having a company that\’s yours to run. You get to decide the talent you want to see there [on top.]\”

    Chris Jericho

    Murdoch\’s WWE name comes from Dick Murdoch, the legendary brawler who was known for his hard-hitting wrestling style and once dominated in New Japan.

    On the podcast, Foley explained how decades ago, Japanese audiences expected the heavy American wrestler, and that\’s something Chris Jericho took on board in 2017.

    \”Now, he [Trevor Murdoch] has that look that Japan liked in the 80s. Stan Hansen-esque. So when Jericho went over to face Kenny Omega, Jericho specifically put on weight because in his mind, that\’s what Japanese fans saw as an American main eventer. It is really interesting to see the way his mind works.\”

    In his first non-WWE match since July 1999, Jericho faced Kenny Omega at Wrestle Kingdom 12 in January 2018, which Omega would win.

    Trevor Murdoch Reveals WWE Paid For Harley Race’s Last Flight Home

  • Kevin Owens Struggling to Move After WWE Live Event Injury (Report)

    Kevin Owens is said to be struggling after suffering an injury at a recent WWE Live event.

    Over the weekend, Owens suffered an injury during a match with Austin Theory which the Prizefighter would go on to win.

    Owens was helped to the back by the referee and it was later reported that he is dealing with a sprained MCL.

    Struggling

    Owens was not part of this week\’s WWE Monday Night Raw, which served as the penultimate episode of the red brand before Survivor Series WarGames

    While speaking during the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer explained that Owens is struggling after his injury according to a source close to the situation.

    \”I did hear that he’s not moving very well. So he better heal up quick if he’s gonna make that pay-per-view.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Meltzer added that as of Monday morning, Owens\’ injury has not been checked by a medical professional, but he has been rehabbing at the WWE\’s Performance Center in Florida.

    Survivor Series WarGames

    It is expected that Owens will miss this month\’s Survivor Series Premium Live Event, which will mark the debut of WarGames on the main roster.

    Owens was reported to have been part of the Men\’s WarGames match, which would have seen him team with Drew McIntyre and the Brawling Brutes against the Bloodline.

    Given Owens\’ injury, the Prizefighter is unlikely to compete, and Meltzer said an angle may be filmed for this Friday\’s SmackDown to introduce someone else as the fifth member.

    Kevin Owens Appears to Mock CM Punk Following All Out Media Scrum

  • JONAH Receives Offer to Return – Will Have to Decide Between WWE and NJPW (Report)

    Will JONAH continue forward with his success in New Japan Pro Wrestling, or try his luck with a second run in WWE.

    JONAH , known in WWE as Bronson Reed, was part of NXT from 2018 to 2021 and is a former NXT North American Champion.

    Despite an impressive push and rumors of a main roster call-up, Reed was released in August 2021.

    Decisions, Decisions…

    In August of this year, it was reported that Triple H, now WWE\’s Head of Talent, was interested in bringing the Australian wrestler back.

    During the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that an offer has been made to JONAH.

    \”JONAH certainly has an offer from WWE and he\’s got to make a decision. Will it be New Japan or WWE? He\’s got a great push in New Japan, but you know, it\’s going to be his call.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Meltzer also gave his two cents on the matter, believing that JONAH would be better off staying in New Japan.

    \”He would actually, probably do much better in New Japan Pro Wrestling than he will do in WWE, but there is a big difference in money. Or at least the potential money. You just don\’t know what you want. ]

    \”They\’re completely different lifestyles. It depends on [what he wants.] I know a lot of guys would choose WWE, and a lot of guys would choose New Japan. It\’s the circumstances.\”

    New Japan or WWE?

    With an offer on the table, JONAH will have to make a decision soon about where his future lies.

    If JONAH\’s long-term goal is to be a headline act, then his future should be with NJPW according to Meltzer.

    \”The one thing with New Japan is he\’s going to get a really big push, we\’ve already seen that. He\’s going to be protected and he\’s going to get over because he did get over at a high level. In WWE, on the main roster, you just don\’t know. You just don\’t know.\”

    If JONAH is wanting a more secure future and to earn more, then a WWE return makes more sense.

    \”Main roster WWE, even the bottom number is a quarter-million [dollars a year.] That\’s bottom, and obviously top is millions if you make it to the top.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Being Released

    It\’s unclear if JONAH holds any ill will to WWE given his release in August of last year.

    Speaking about the release, Meltzer said that the decision specifically came from WWE\’s head at the time.

    \”It was a big surprise. It was Vince McMahon who made the call.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    After JONAH\’s release, it was reported that WWE did not see the Australian as the right fit for NXT 2.0.

    The revamped NXT would launch in September 2021, a month after JONAH\’s release.

    JONAH Explains Difference Between Western & Japanese Wrestling Fans

  • AEW Star Booked for Full Gear Possibly Injured

    This weekend\’s AEW Full Gear card may be forced to change as Anthony Bowens is believed to be injured.

    Bowens and Max Caster are scheduled to defend their AEW World Tag Team Championships against Swerve in Our Glory this Saturday in Newark, New Jersey.

    The Acclaimed captured the titles from Keith Lee and Swerve Strickland at September\’s AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam special, making Bowens the first openly gay champion in the promotion\’s history.

    Bowens Injured

    Fightful Select reports that sources who spoke to them said that Bowens may have suffered an aggravated shoulder injury during Dynamite.

    On last night\’s show, Bowens faced Swerve Strickland after The Acclaimed debuted their special music video featuring Paul Wight as Captain Insano.

    The finish of the match saw Strickland hit Bowens with the JML Driver for the pinfall victory.

    Fightful added that they can\’t say for certain if this is legit or if it\’s being worked into a story. 

    AEW has not publicly commented on Bowens\’ status and he remains booked for Full Gear at this time.

    Previous Injury

    If Bowens is indeed injured, it won\’t be the first time that he will have been hurt during his AEW tenure.

    In May, Bowens underwent a procedure on his knee that kept him out of action for months, after suffering a knee injury in March of this year.

    Despite the injury, Bowens continued to appear on AEW programming and used a wheelchair to get around.

    Anthony Bowens On Being Worried That Coming Out As Gay Would Impact His Wrestling Dream

  • WWE Superstars Don\’t Hear from Vince McMahon Anymore

    Vince McMahon is truly gone from the world of professional wrestling and communication between the ex-CEO and the roster has dried up.

    McMahon retired from all roles with WWE in July of this year, a month after stepping down as CEO and Chairman of the Board.

    McMahon\’s resignation came following accusations of millions of dollars paid out in NDAs related to extramarital affairs with female employees.

    Silence

    Though McMahon publicly announced his retirement, some have questioned if the ex-Chairman is as truly gone as it seems.

    In August, Vince Russo said it was \”impossible\” that McMahon had retired, during an interview session on his Patreon.

    Fightful Select reports that McMahon\’s retirement is the real deal and that those in the company don\’t hear much from him their former boss these days.

    In his place, Stephanie McMahon has been appointed WWE\’s Chairwoman and is Co-CEO with Nick Khan.

    Triple H has replaced the Billionaire as WWE\’s Head of Creative and replaced long-time McMahon advocate John Laurinaitis as Head of Talent Relations.

    Getting Out More

    During his decades on top of wrestling, McMahon was a known workaholic but is finding a life outside of the ring.

    Fightful\’s report adds that McMahon has been known to be out and about more than he was while still in WWE.

    The billionaire was spotted in New York in August for his 77th birthday, which was attended by WWE alum including John Cena and Brock Lesnar.

    McMahon was also spotted with an unknown woman, leading to speculation that his marriage to Linda McMahon has ended due to the recent controversy.

    Vice’s Vince McMahon Documentary Premieres December 13

  • Logan Paul\’s Podcast Co-Host Suffered Jaw Injury at WWE Crown Jewel 2022

    Logan Paul left Riyadh worse for wear after his Crown Jewel match with Roman Reigns, and he isn\’t the only one.

    In his third match, Paul challenged the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and despite coming up short, impressed fans with his in-ring ability.

    After the match, the Maverick took to Twitter to state that he has suffered a knee injury that will keep him out of the ring.

    Mike Majlak

    Paul wasn\’t alone when he squared off against the might of the Bloodline, as his brother Jake and his co-hosts from the ImPAULsive podcast were also at Crown Jewel.

    During the match, co-hosts Mike and George were pulled from the crowd after trash-talking the Usos and earned a superkick each from the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions.

    While on ImPAULsive, Mike discussed the injuries he sustained on WWE\’s latest trip to Saudi Arabia.

    \”My jaw came out of place. Everybody\’s like \’WWE is fake.\’ Yeah, why don\’t you get tossed around bro. I have bruises all over my back. My jaw is out of place.

    -Mike Majlak.

    What\’s next for Logan Paul?

    Paul\’s knee injury is the biggest roadblock for the YouTuber\’s WWE career, but Logan remains optimistic about his recovery.

    This week, Paul said he has spoken to WWE\’s Head of Talent and Creative Triple H about a WrestleMania 39 match with John Cena, which he is confident would \’break\’ the internet.

    Speaking to DAZN this week, Jake Paul said his brother\’s recovery is going better than expected, as while it was believed to have been an ACL injury at first, it has since been diagnosed as an MCL and meniscus injury.

    Logan Paul Already Back Training As He Eyes WWE Return

    h/t – WrestleTalk

  • World of Sport Planning UK Relaunch – Have Spoken to Nick Aldis & Mickie James

    World of Sport may soon be back on screens in the UK with some high-profile talent as part of the promotion.

    The show first debuted on ITV in 1965, and covered many sports in the UK, including Soccer, Horse Racing and wrestling.

    In 2018, over two decades after the final episode, World of Sport was brought back exclusively as a wrestling promotion.

    The Revival

    2018\’s World of Sport Wrestling did not last long, as the show featured 10 episodes and was not renewed by ITV, making the September 29, episode the final broadcast.

    When Inside the Ropes recently spoke to sources close to World of Sport, they were told that there are aspirations for the show to be revived for the second time in the UK.

    Their report adds that there is a \”number of different approaches\” on the table, including a style similar to the NWA.

    This would see World of Sport run low-cost, free-to-air television shows from a studio, alongside live events.

    This style proved to be effective during the Covid-19 Pandemic due to the lower risk of infection compared to having arenas filled with fans.

    Aldis and James

    If World of Sport Wrestling is to relaunch, they\’ll need a big name, and that could be Nick Aldis.

    The two-time former NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Aldis recently announced his intention to leave the NWA, and has been vocal about his issues with Billy Corgan.

    Sources from World of Sport said that there has been communication between themselves and Aldis, and that the Brit\’s wife Mickie James is also interested in getting involved.

    James is currently enjoying her ‘Last Rodeo’ with IMPACT Wrestling, having announced back in September that she will retire after her next defeat.

    Nick Aldis Reveals His Reaction To Being Suspended By NWA

  • Iron Survival Challenge Rules Explained for NXT Deadl1ne

    WWE NXT will soon see the debut of the promotion\’s newest match stipulation: the Iron Survival Challenge

    On this week\’s WWE NXT, Shawn Michaels appeared to announce the new match, adding that NXT is a brand focused on \”innovation.\”

    The match will have its debut on December 10, at WWE NXT\’s newest event \’NXT Deadl1ne.\’

    The Rules

    With a brand new match type debuting, comes brand new rules for fans to learn.

    In his announcement, Michaels confirmed that there will be two Iron Survivor Challenge, one men\’s and one women\’s match.

    The 25-minute match will see five Superstars compete, with two opponents starting, with a new entrant entering every five minutes.

    Every fall a Superstar earns grants them a point, and forces the pinned Superstar into a penalty box for 90 seconds.

    The person with the most falls at the end of the match will be the winner.

    The victors of the men\’s and women\’s matches will earn an NXT Championship match and NXT Women\’s Championship match respectively.

    NXT Deadl1ne

    Little is known about NXT\’s newest Premium event, but the timing of the show has been notable.

    The event will be held on the same day as Ring of Honor\’s Final Battle Pay-Per-View, the third major event for ROH since Tony Khan\’s purchase in March.

    ROH Final Battle will have a special start time of 4 pm Eastern and is expected to finish before NXT Deadl1ne kicks off in the evening.

    UFC 282 is also scheduled for December 10.

    Details on WWE Launching 2 New NXT Brands in 2023

  • People in WWE \”Absolutely Do Not Want\” CM Punk to Return (Report)

    Is CM Punk going to return to WWE soon? Not if some in the company can help it.

    Since his explosive comments at AEW All Out and the backstage fight, it has been rumored that Punk could return to WWE despite his infamous 2014 walkout.

    Punk has been suspended from AEW since All Out and there is no sign of his return despite the investigation into the backstage fight recently concluding.

    Do Not Want

    Punk in WWE, despite the frosty relationship between the two sides over the years, would certainly be a huge deal at a time when the company is at war with AEW.

    Triple H has reportedly \”softened\” his stance on CM Punk but not everyone is wanting to see him return.

    While speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that many in WWE do not want Punk back, but they have no say over the creative.

    \”I know people in WWE who absolutely do not want him [CM Punk] there, but they are not the people on the creative team.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Meltzer added that those people in WWE are aware of what happened in AEW, and seriously question why risk the same happening in their promotion.

    This attitude isn\’t too different from the feeling in AEW, with reports that talent will refuse to work with Punk if he is brought back by Tony Khan.

    WWVD?

    Many in WWE may be opposed to a CM Punk return, but it will ultimately come down to what WWE co-CEOs Nick Khan and Stephanie McMahon, and WWE Head of Creative/Talent Triple H, think is best.

    On his show, Meltzer said that Triple H may be against bringing Punk in, and questioned what Vince McMahon would do if he was still in charge.

    \”“Paul may just go in there and go, ‘Look what happened, we don’t need it’. And they don’t. They don’t need it, and he may just do that.

    \”“If it was Vince, Vince would do it I think, with that kind of money at stake.”

    Dave Meltzer.

    CM Punk\’s status with AEW remains unclear, and Tony Khan has made it clear he will not be addressing the matter in public.

    Fightful have previously reported that there are currently no plans to bring Punk back to AEW.

    “Issues” May Keep AEW From Releasing CM Punk from Contract (Report)

  • WWE had Main Event Plans for Kevin Owens Before Injury (Report)

    Kevin Owens\’ return to WWE programming would have seen him thrust into the main event, had he not gone down with a recent injury.

    Owens has been absent from programming as of late, with his most recent televised match seeing him compete in a six-man tag on SmackDown in September of this year.

    At a WWE Live event earlier this month, Owens addressed his absence from TV, saying he is going to \”kick everyone\’s ass\” when he is back.

    The Injury

    Any plans for Owens to kick ass won\’t be happening anytime soon, as the Prizefighter suffered an injury at a WWE Live event last week.

    Competing at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin, Owens suffered an MCL sprain during his match with Austin Theory, and quickly finished with a Stunner.

    After the match, Owens had to be helped to the back by the referee of the match.

    Plans

    Owens\’ injury comes at a time when he hasn\’t been featured on TV, but WWE did have plans that were going to start soon.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said that Owens was going to be the final man for the face team at Survivor Series WarGames.

    Had he not suffered the injury, Owens would have likely teamed with The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland, and Butch,) and Drew McIntyre.

    The four tackled the Bloodline on last week\’s SmackDown and while the match hasn\’t been confirmed yet, it is expected that the Men\’s WarGames match will be made official this Friday.

    Given Roman Reigns\’ involvement in the match, the bout is guaranteed to headline Survivor Series WarGames.

    Kevin Owens Names NXT Stars He Would Call If He Needs Backup