SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • WWE May Have Scrapped Another Vince McMahon-Era Rule

    Another one of Vince McMahon\’s rules has seemingly been scrapped, judging by what happened on last night\’s Monday Night Raw.

    McMahon retired from all roles with WWE in July, following allegations of misconduct with female employees.

    The 77-year-old billionaire is alleged to have paid millions in non-disclosure agreements to multiple women who have worked for WWE.

    Scrapping the Rule

    During last night\’s Raw, the main event saw Alexa Bliss and Asuka win the WWE Women\’s Tag Team Championship from Damage CTRL.

    Before the match begun, referee Shawn Bennett was mentioned by name, something that was banned under the previous regime.

    McMahon infamously banned the use of referee names years before his retirement, after hearing a name he did not recognise during a WWE Live event.

    Speaking on Talk is Jericho in 2020, former WWE official Mike Chioda explained how McMahon made his decision.

    \”He was like, ‘Who is this? Whose name is this?’ And they said, ‘Oh it’s the referee.’ He goes, ‘Goddammit, I am done hearing the referee’s name. I don’t want to hear the referee’s name no more.\”

    The win this week marks the third Women\’s Tag Titles for Bliss and Asuka, albeit with different partners.

    Asuka now holds the record for the most tag partners, having won the titles with Kairi Sane, Charlotte Flair, and now Bliss.

    More Changes

    WWE has undergone several changes since McMahon\’s retirement, including ending some of his long-standing rules.

    Not long after his departure, WWE began using the term Hospital again, while McMahon had preferred the vague \’Local Medical Facility.\’

    In September, it was reported that WWE had reversed a rule banning tag-team partners from attacking when not the legal participant.

    Alexa Bliss & Asuka React to Winning Women’s Tag Titles on WWE RAW

  • NXT UK Superstar Makes NXT Debut at Live Event

    The NXT UK brand may be a thing of the past, but one of the brand\’s popular Superstars has now taken their first steps in WWE NXT.

    In August, WWE announced the formation of NXT Europe, which is set to launch at some point next year.

    In the same statement, WWE said that NXT UK will be on hiatus until the new brand is up and running.

    A New Dawn

    Immediately after the announcement of NXT Europe, WWE released the vast majority of their NXT UK talent.

    Those who weren\’t released, including Ilja Dragunov and Pretty Deadly, have since made their way to WWE NXT: the company\’s U.S.-based developmental brand.

    At a recent WWE NXT Live event, Isla Dawn made her debut for the white and gold brand, facing fellow NXT UK alum Alba Fyre.

    The match, which took place at last weekend\’s NXT Live event, say Fyre get the win.

    https://twitter.com/rosendevilletm/status/1586545266819493888

    Isla Dawn

    Dawn\’s career with WWE began in 2017 when she lost a November 6, Raw squash match to Asuka.

    Competing in the 2018 Mae Young Classic, Dawn was eliminated in the first round, but would still be signed by WWE.

    Competing for NXT UK, Dawn would be unsuccessful in the tournament to crown the first NXT UK Women\’s Champion, being eliminated in the first-round by eventual winner Toni Storm.

    In February 2022, Dawn would steal the title from then-Champion Meiko Satomura, and would return the gold in exchange for a title match that she\’d lose.

    Dawn would compete in a fatal four-way match on what would be the final episode of NXT UK, losing to Blair Davenport.

    NXT UK Stars Talk WWE Network Show

  • Karl Anderson Off Battle Autumn Show – NJPW Cancels Title Match

    NJPW Never Openweight Champion Karl Anderson is officially off the card for Battle Autumn, the promotion has confirmed.

    Anderson had previously been booked for the show on November 5, where he was scheduled to defend his title against Hikuleo.

    In a statement on their website, New Japan confirmed that despite \”extensive efforts,\” the match is now off.

    New Japan apologized for Anderson not being on the show, adding that they hold their champions \”to the highest standard of professionalism.\”

    Instead of the pre-announced title match, Hikuleo will now face Yujiro Takahashi in a non-title match.

    The Openweight Championship

    Anderson returned to WWE earlier this month as the NJPW Never Openweight Champion, and the match with Hikuleo had already been booked and announced.

    It was in a social media video that Anderson claimed he would not be at Battle Autumn and instead compete at WWE Crown Jewel (also November 5.)

    In a response, NJPW said that Anderson will be stripped of the title if he does not compete at Battle Autumn, but the title\’s future was not addressed in the recent statement.

    More than Meets the Eye

    The conflict between Anderson, New Japan and WWE has been going on for weeks now, but this isn\’t how things are behind the scenes.

    A report last week notes that there have always been plans for Anderson to wrestle for New Japan despite his WWE return.

    Sources close to the situation said that “things are fine” between Anderson and the two promotions.

    Karl Anderson Addresses Being Booked on The Same Date by WWE and NJPW

  • Former Superstar Accuses WWE of Stealing his Ideas

    Were the ideas for Retribution and Raw Underground original concepts from WWE\’s vast creative team? Not according to EC3.

    After being released in May 2013, EC3 returned to WWE in 2018 and was a prominent upper-mid-carder in NXT.

    This would not translate over to the main roster and after an underwhelming run, EC3 was released for the second time in April 2020.

    Stolen Ideas

    Not long after his release from WWE, EC3 shared cryptic videos, claiming he would control his narrative.

    In August of that same year, WWE would introduce their Retribution stable, and later their Raw Underground show.

    Speaking to the Wrestling Outlaws, EC3 claimed that the masked gang and the grimy setting were too similar to his videos to be a coincidence (via Sportskeeda.)

    \”The two things [Retribution and Raw Underground,] they stole from Control Your Narrative and my little video! Like, pull back in time and watch my original Control Your Narrative, my original little narrative, and watch RAW Underground and watch RETRIBUTION.

    \”A bunch of guys in hoods, walking around, real tough, causing mayhem. Where did I see that before? Oh yeah, Control Your Narrative on YouTube.”

    Earlier this year, EC3 would found his \’Control Your Narrative\’ promotion, though the show is on hiatus at this time.

    Retribution & Raw Underground

    While EC3 believes WWE stole his ideas, neither Retribution nor RAW Underground received rave reviews.

    After members of Retribution were revealed, the group faced ridicule from audiences until the group\’s end in early 2021.

    Raw Underground, a reported personal favorite of Vince McMahon, would only last a few weeks and received criticism for being too different from the wrestling fans tuned in for.

    EC3 Weighs In on Braun Strowman’s WWE Return, CYN, NWA, More

  • Dax Harwood Addresses FTR\’s Future – is Ready for \”One Last Run\”

    Dax Harwood has said that he and Cash Wheeler are prepared for their \”one last run\” in the ring.

    Harwood and Wheeler, collectively known as FTR, have been with AEW since 2020 and previously worked for WWE as The Revival.

    The duo currently holds the IWGP Tag Titles, the Ring of Honor World Tag Titles and the AAA World Tag Titles, the first team to have the three championships simultaneously.

    One Last Run

    FTR has proven to be one of the most successful and popular teams around today, but Harwood is thinking about the group\’s future.

    On Instagram, Harwood shared images of FTR\’s biggest matches, and addressed the possibility of \”one last run.\”

    \”All we’ve ever wanted to do in life was be a professional wrestler. Height, body-type, accent, life situations, we had all of it against us. Now, we leave a body of work I think we can be proud of.

    When we started this journey in 2014, we tried to make sure we were always different from the everyone else wrestling currently. We also wanted to work so hard that eventually we’d go down as one of the greatest tag teams to ever do it. I’m not sure if we have reached that, but we’ll damn sure keep trying.

    Thank y’all for going on this journey with us. Not sure where the next few years will take us, but I can’t wait for One Last Run

    Top Guys, out.

    Dax Harwood.

    FTR\’s Future

    Earlier this week, it was announced that FTR will compete at New Japan\’s upcoming \’Battle Autumn\’ event.

    In a video, the IWGP Tag Team Champions demanded that NJPW provide their best team to face them at the November 5 show.

    It is currently unconfirmed who FTR will face, and while likely that it will be a title match, this has yet to be confirmed.

    FTR will also team with Ricky Steamboat on November 27 for Big Time Wrestling, in the WWE Hall of Famer\’s first match in over 12 years.

    FTR Sends Message To AEW President Tony Khan: “Book Us, Brother”

  • Update on Plans for Mike Tyson\’s Appearance on AEW Rampage

    Will Mike Tyson\’s appearance on next week\’s AEW Rampage be a one-off? Don\’t bet on it.

    During this week\’s Rampage, it was confirmed that the Boxing icon will be on next Friday\’s show, where he will provide guest commentary.

    This marks the latest appearance from the \’Baddest Man on the Planet,\’ whose deal with AEW came together just days before the announcement.

    More than a Commentator

    After Tyson\’s appearance for next week was announced, it was reported that this will be a one-off for the Boxing legend.

    That no longer appears to be the case, as PW Insider reports that his return to AEW will include multiple appearances.

    If so, it is likely Mike will get physical during his time on Rampage, setting up a future appearance.

    The last time Tyson appeared for AEW, he became a member of the Inner Cirlce, but Chris Jericho has since dissolved the group and formed the heel Jericho Appreciation Society.

    Tyson and Boardwalk Hall

    Friday\’s Rampage will be at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall which has played host to some of \’Iron Mike\’s biggest fights.

    In October 1987, Tyson knocked out Tyrell Biggs in the seventh round, retaining his Undisputed Heavyweight Championship.

    Less than a year later, the undefeated Tyson would face the also undefeated Michael Spinks, who also had a legitimate claim to being the heavyweight champion.

    Tyson would again win, this time with a first-round knockout, giving Spinks his first loss in 32 fights.

    Mike would fight Carl Williams in July 1989 and Alex Stewart in December 1990, winning both fights with first-round knockouts.

    WWE Champion Approached About Possible Mike Tyson Fight

  • AEW Wrestlers Attend Snoop Dogg\’s Birthday Bash (Photos)

    Some of the big names from All Elite Wrestling represented the company at the recent birthday bash for Snoop Dogg.

    The music legend turned 51 earlier this month and had a huge party in Miami, Florida.

    On Twitter, AEW\’s official account shared images of TBS Champion Jade Cargill, Swerve Strickland, and Ricky Starks at the event.

    Cargill, who attended in her wrestling gear, later shared a video of her giving Snoop his cake, calling it a bucket list moment.

    Snoop and AEW

    Snoop Dogg appeared for AEW on the January 6, 2021 edition of Dynamite, which was the company\’s \’New Year\’s Smash\’ special.

    Appearing in the corner of Cody Rhodes for his match with Matt Sydal, the rap legend would get physical himself later on, delivering a frog-splah to Serpentico.

    Rhodes would then deliver a three-count, given Snoop an unofficial victory in AEW.

    Snoop was one of the four judges for season one of the Go-Big Show, which Rhodes is also a judge for.

    Snoop and WWE

    Snoop has appeared for AEW, but the vast majority of his wrestling appearances have come with WWE.

    The rapper was the Master of Ceremonies for a women\’s tag team match at WrestleMania, and later shared a kiss with Maria Kanellis, who won the match alongside Ashley Massaro.

    In March 2016, Snoop was inducted into the celebrity wing of the WWE Hall of Fame the night before WrestleMania 32.

    At WrestleMania, Snoop would perform for the entrance of his cousin Sasha Banks, who unsuccessfully competed for the WWE Women\’s Championship.

    Snoop Dogg Gifted Custom WWE Championship Belt

  • Bayley Wants to See WWE Introduce a Women\’s Mid-Card Championship

    Is WWE prepared to add another singles championship to its women\’s division? Bayley certainly hopes so.

    In the Men\’s division, each brand has a mid-card championship, the United States title (Raw,) the Intercontinental title (SmackDown,) or the North American Championship (NXT.)

    In AEW, the company has a Women\’s World Championship (and currently an Interim Women\’s World Champion) but also has the AEW TBS title held by Jade Cargill.

    WWE does not have a mid-card title for their women\’s division, only the Raw and SmackDown Women\’s Championships and the Women\’s Tag Team titles.

    Mid-Card Championship

    Bayley has had reigns as the Raw, SmackDown, and NXT Women\’s Championships, and is a multi-time WWE Women\’s Tag Team Champion.

    Speaking to Sportskeeda, the Role Model said it wouldn\’t hurt WWE to introduce a mid-card title for their women\’s division.

    \”I mean, it wouldn’t hurt. It would be nice to have another title. I think it’s just gonna take time. When we wanted those Women’s Tag Team titles, it took a long time and it took someone actually fighting for them.

    \”So if that’s what we want, someone has to stand up for it and really fight for it and prove that it’s going to be a benefit for the division.”

    WWE introduced their Women\’s Tag Team Titles in early 2019 which fans, and Bayley herself, had been calling on for some time.

    Bayley and Sasha Banks would become the first Women\’s Tag Team Champions, winning a tag-team Elimination Chamber match.

    Rallying Support

    Bayley is hopeful to see WWE introduce a women\’s mid-card title, but she\’s not the only one.

    Speaking to SEScoops\’ own Steve Fall earlier this month, Raquel Rodriguez expressed her desire for a mid-card title.

    \”I think that would be something so great for the women’s division especially because we have so much diversity in the women’s division.”

    Rodriguez is a former NXT Women\’s Champion, NXT Women\’s Tag Champion and WWE Women\’s Tag Team Champion.

    Bayley Reveals Which Veteran From Past She Wants To Face

  • Mick Foley on Injuries: \”I\’m Paying a Steeper Price than I Thought Imaginable\”

    WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley wowed fans for years with his work in the ring, but that has come at a hefty price.

    Considered by many as \’the King of the Death Match,\’ Foley earned a reputation for his hardcore style, which would be used in WWE, WCW, ECW, and other promotions.

    Foley\’s last official match came at a February 2015 event for OMEGA (the promotion founded by Matt and Jeff Hardy) where he defeated Mickey Gambino.

    Paying the Price

    In 2012, after a run in TNA Wrestling which saw Foley become World Champion, Mick returned to WWE as an ambassador for the company.

    Speaking on the latest Foley is Pod, the Hardcore Legend said he imagined he\’d have a handful of matches a year, but that was before a grim diagnosis from a physician.

    \”He said, \’We\’ve been looking over your MRIs and your X-rays. You\’ve got too many issues. You got muscular, neurological, skeletal, and even if we are able to help from a neurological standpoint, there\’s nothing we can do with those other things.\’ I\’m looking at all these things I did during the course of my career and I mean, I\’m paying a steeper price than I thought imaginable.\”

    \”I\’m paying a steeper price than I thought imaginable.\”

    Mick Foley.

    Foley\’s one and only in-ring appearance for WWE after returning would be as an entrant in the 2012 Royal Rumble.

    The #7 entrant, Foley would eliminate Primo, Epico, and Justin Gabriel before being dumped out by Cody Rhodes.

    Returning?

    In 2016, Foley returned to WWE again as the General Manager of Monday Night Raw but was fired by Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon in 2017.

    Speaking about a possible return to WWE, Mick said it is unlikely to happen.

    \”I can\’t remember a written promo. That\’s one of the reasons why if I do get a call for TV, I\’m more likely to say no…  If you\’re gonna bring me back, I want to help out with the storyline.

    \”I don\’t want to just get the pop. I don\’t want to just promote something I have coming up. I want to make a difference. Now, I\’m going to tell them I cannot remember a storyline, and I don\’t want to just be a hanger-on in the back for an old school day.\”

    Foley\’s most recent Raw appearance came in 2019 when he was attacked by \’The Fiend\’ Bray Wyatt.

    Mick Foley Would’ve Loved Doing Post-Show Press Conferences

  • Cody Rhodes\’ Agent – Former WWE/TNA Employee – Fired After Misconduct Allegations

    Cody Rhodes\’ agent has been fired from his role with Hyperion Talent Agency after allegations of misconduct.

    Deadline reports that Brian Wittenstein, who represents both Cody and Brandi Rhodes, has left the agency after a client made a complaint about inappropriate behavior.

    When the agency looked into the matter, they found more instances of unprofessional conduct, leading to his dismissal.

    In a statement, the agency told Deadline \”Brian Wittenstein is no longer an employee of Hyperion Talent Agency. We have no further comment at this time.”

    In addition to the Rhodes family, Wittenstein is said to have represented several other wrestlers though it is not public knowledge who they are.

    Wittenstein has said that he and Hyperion parted ways amicably.

    Wittenstein in Wrestling

    Wittenstein has been involved in the world of professional wrestling, as he worked for Impact, then TNA, until 2011.

    After his departure from TNA Wrestling, Wittenstein joined WWE, resulting in a lawsuit filed by TNA against him and WWE.

    The lawsuit alleged that Wittenstein had violated a Non-Disclosure Agreement by sharing confidential information with WWE.

    TNA alleged that this information allowed WWE to gain an advantage in contract negotiations but withdrew the suit in 2013.

    Cody Rhodes Out of the Ring

    Cody Rhodes is best known for his time with WWE and AEW, but he has also taken on TV roles outside of wrestling.

    Rhodes made his non-WWE debut in a 2010 episode of \’Warehouse 13,\’ and had seven appearances in CW hit series \’Arrow.\’

    Rhodes was the feature of AEW series \’Rhodes to the Top\’ before his departure and is a judge on the Go-Big Show.

    Former WWE Superstar Claims Cody Rhodes Was “Entitled” Early in His Career

  • Booker T: AEW Fans Don\’t Care About Wrestlers Getting Hurt in the Ring

    Booker T has lashed out at fans of All Elite Wrestling, saying they treat the wrestlers as nothing more than toys who can be broken.

    AEW has been plagued with injuries this year, with CM Punk, Bryan Danielson and Adam Cole all being on the shelf at some point in 2022.

    In Cole\’s case, he has been out since June\’s AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door event with a concussion and there have been concerns he may never be cleared to wrestle again.

    Don\’t Care

    During last week\’s Tuesday edition of AEW Dynamite, \’Hangman\’ Adam Page was left motionless after a lariat during his title match with AEW World Champion Jon Moxley.

    The match was ended ten minutes earlier than scheduled, and the Cowboy has been diagnosed with a concussion.

    Speaking on his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker said that AEW\’s audience don\’t care about who gets hurt as long as they are entertained (via 411 Mania.)

    \”The AEW fans, man. They don’t care about those guys in the ring. They do not care about those guys working. Those guys could — they’re nothing more than toys, video games for these guys.

    \”They don’t care about those guys in the ring.\”

    Booker T on AEW fans.

    \”If they’re not out there getting a ‘This Is Awesome’ chant, they don’t give a damn about these guys going out there getting hurt. They really don’t.”

    Hangman Page

    After the match was ended, Page was stretchered to the back and later taken to Cincinnatti trauma center.

    In a statement, AEW confirmed that he has suffered a concussion but has since been discharged.

    AEW added that both they and Page are \”grateful\” for the response from the medical staff and thanked fans for their support.

  • \”Total Psycho\” CM Punk Did Not Care About Larry the Dog During AEW All Out Fight (Report)

    CM Punk showed no interest in the safety of his dog Larry during the backstage fight at AEW All Out 2022, it has been claimed.

    After Punk\’s explosive comments during the All Out post-show media scrum, a fight broke out backstage which resulted in CM Punk, Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks and others being suspended.

    This month, Ace Steel was fired from AEW, presumably for his role in the fight, and the investigation into the matter has since concluded.

    Total Psycho

    This week, it was reported that CM Punk\’s dog Larry was injured during the All Out fight, when the Elite \’kicked\’ the door to Punk\’s locker room.

    Punk\’s camp claimed that the door connected to Larry\’s face, damaging two teeth which were later removed, though many are suspicious of the claim.

    In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that Punk showed no interest in his pet, according to a neutral source who was present for the fight.

    \”The dog story is a complete lie. When the altercation was happening Punk was a total psycho and could [not] have cared less about the dog. Kenny picked the dog up to save him from being hurt and gave him to Megha. Megha was holding the dog screaming at Punk to stop. Punk didn’t even register that his `baby’ was being held by a stranger in the middle of a fight. It didn’t stop him one bit.”

    \”Punk was a total psycho and could [not] have cared less about the dog.

    The Outright Lie

    This is the latest claim against the dog story, which has been previously described as an \”outright lie.\”

    Meltzer questioned, if Larry\’s injury is true, why did Punk\’s side not mention this in the seven weeks since the All Out fight?

    It is believed that AEW will buy out the remainder of Punk\’s contract with the company and release him soon.

    Chris Jericho Told CM Punk he is a Cancer After AEW All Out Fight

  • Latest Update on Sasha Banks\’ Status with WWE

    Fans eager to see Sasha Banks back in a WWE ring will have to keep waiting, as there\’s still no confirmation on when she\’ll be back.

    Banks was suspended from WWE in May of this year after she and Naomi walked out of an episode of Raw over creative differences.

    Despite belief earlier this year that both women would be leaving, it is now reported that both will return under WWE\’s post-Vince McMahon era.

    Where is The Boss?

    It has been reported for some time that Banks\’ return to WWE TV is imminent, but there\’s been no sighting of the former Women\’s Champion.

    In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that there\’s been a hold-up in bringing The Boss back.

    \”She is still under contract to WWE but there is no word on when she’ll return as there were said to be hang-ups in negotiations for a new deal.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    During Extreme Rules 2022, Banks was mentioned during the Raw Women\’s Championship Ladder Match, the first time her name has been used on air since the suspension.

    Naomi

    Like Banks, Naomi was also suspended for walking out during the May 16, episode of Monday Night Raw.

    Earlier this month, it was reported that WWE may have frozen her contract, which was set to expire this year, and if so, means she cannot discuss signing elsewhere.

    Banks and Naomi have appeared together in non-WWE appearances since the suspension, including at the recent Black Panther: Wakanda Forever premiere alongside the New Day and Jimmy Uso.

    Sasha Banks Says Modeling Debut Felt Like Her ‘First Wrestling Match All Over Again’

  • Report: AEW Talent Refusing to Work With CM Punk if he Returns

    CM Punk\’s days with AEW are seemingly at an end, but things will be far from easy for him if he somehow is brought back.

    Punk has been suspended from AEW since September\’s All Out Pay-Per-View for his role in the backstage fight.

    Earlier this month, it was reported that AEW is seeking to buy out the remainder of his contract.

    Refusing to Work

    Many suspect that Punk will be released from AEW soon, but nothing has been confirmed by Tony Khan at this time.

    In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that some of the \”top people\” in AEW have been saying that he is gone.

    One unnamed star with AEW told Meltzer that Punk is not worth the trouble he\’s brought.

    \”Punk won’t be back. His value on screen isn’t one percent worth the hassle and black cloud he causes backstage.\”

    Meltzer reports that Chris Jericho has made it very clear that he believes Punk\’s time with AEW is over.

    Jericho, who\’s been with AEW since the start, has also said that he is unwilling to work with Punk again if he somehow returns.

    The Observer adds that \”many if not most of the key top names were saying that they wouldn’t work with him.\”

    Return to WWE?

    If Punk is released from AEW, then WWE will likely be the only promotion that can afford his asking price.

    WWE and Punk have been heavily critical of each other, stemming from Punk\’s walkout in January 2014.

    AEW reportedly is concerned about Punk returning to WWE and is negotiating a non-compete clause as part of their buy out.

  • Kazuchika Okada: I\’m Embarrassed Jay White is IWGP World Heavyweight Champion

    Kazuchika Okada has made his thoughts on Jay White abundantly clear ahead of their IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match at Wrestle Kingdom 17.

    At the January 4 event (the first time since 2019 Wrestle Kingdom will be a one-night show) the two will face off in a rematch from their Dominion 6.12 in Osaka-jo Hall collision.

    At Dominion, White pinned Okada to win the title in a 36-minute main event to begin his first reign as World Heavyweight Champion.

    Embarrassed

    Okada earned his rematch against the New Zealand-born wrestler with a victory in the G1 Climax, becoming a four-time winner and a back-to-back winner.

    Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Okada spoke about White and his attitude as IWGP World Heavyweight Champion.

    “I find Jay White’s attitude embarrassing, to be honest. It’s a disgrace to have him representing New Japan Pro-Wrestling as our top champion, and that’s why I have to show just how great an Okada title match is at the Tokyo Dome—and to end that era of his.\”

    Kazuchika Okada.

    Okada added that he will have his work cut out for him, as White has emerged victorious in four of their last five matches.

    Forbidden Door

    Okada\’s most recent title opportunity against White came at the AEWxNJPW: Forbidden Door crossover event in June of this year.

    That match also saw Adam Cole and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page involved but it was White who won the fatal four-way.

    Speaking about his relationship with AEW, Okada had plenty of praise for Tony Khan\’s first foray into wrestling.

    \”There are places where they win out over NJPW, and areas where New Japan is superior as well. I think both sides came away with something to learn and work on, and I’d love to have another event with those lessons learned.\”

    Okada also expressed his hope that the next Forbidden Door event will happen in his homeland.

    \”Last time was in the U.S., so let’s have it in Japan next time.”

    Kazuchika Okada.

    While Okada hopes for a Japan show, Tony Khan has ruled out any future Forbidden Door shows going outside North America.

    Okada Teases We Haven’t Seen The Last of Him in AEW

  • Chris Jericho Told CM Punk he is a Cancer After AEW All Out Fight

    CM Punk wanted wrestlers who have an issue with him to speak to him face-to-face, and Chris Jericho certainly did that.

    During the AEW All Out 2022 post-show media scrum, Punk had explosive comments for AEW\’s EVPs The Elite, former best friend Colt Cabana and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page.

    Backstage, a fight broke out which resulted in Punk, Kenny Omega, the Young Bucks, and others being suspended.

    Cancer

    AEW\’s roster is reported to be \’anti-Punk\’ at this time, with many believing he has proven to be toxic to the company.

    Fightful Select was told by numerous sources that after the fight, Chris Jericho confronted Punk and was extremely unhappy with what had happened.

    Jericho told Punk that he is a cancer to the AEW locker room, and that he has been detrimental to the company.

    While Punk\’s response was not captured verbatim, the two-time former AEW World Champion effectively told Jericho that it wasn\’t his business and he should leave.

    When Fightful reached out to Jericho and AEW regarding the matter, they did not hear back, but sources close to Punk confirmed the interaction happened.

    After the heated words between the two, Jericho, fresh off an All Out win over Bryan Danielson, appeared on the media scrum.

    Time\’s Up for Punk

    This week, it was reported that AEW\’s third-party investigation into the All Out fight has concluded.

    On his Wrestling Observer Radio show, Dave Meltzer said it was obvious by this week\’s Dynamite who has been punished and who hasn\’t.

    While Dynamite saw no mention or sighting of Punk, a promo package aired highlighting the return of the Elite.

    There have been talks that AEW will buy out the remainder of Punk\’s contract, but fear he will sign with WWE.

    Backstage Update on Triple H Potentially Bringing CM Punk Back to WWE

  • Jim Ross Provides Update on Skin Cancer Battle and Recovery

    AEW commentator Jim Ross is optimistic that a new treatment will speed up his recovery time after defeating cancer.

    In October 2021, Ross was diagnosed with skin cancer which resulted in him missing several weeks of AEW programming.

    Ross informed fans that December that he was cancer-free and made an immediate return to the announcer\’s desk.

    New Treatment

    JR may be cancer free now, but he still has a long road to recovery before he is fully healed.

    Speaking on the latest episode of Grilling JR, Ross explained the new treatment he will be starting soon.

    \”I\’ve had a good week regarding my cancer issues. I\’m going to start next week with some treatment. I can\’t remember what the thing is called. Hyperbaric Chamber? Something along those lines. I\’m going in on Tuesday for my first test run. See how it works. They think it will speed up the healing. And if it does, I win. And that\’s what I\’m looking for.\”

    Hyperbaric Chambers are often used during a cancer battle, but have been used after people have beaten cancer.

    Recover Time

    While JR will start treatment soon, the WWE Hall of Famer is well-aware that his recovery process will not be quick.

    On the podcast, Ross explained that it\’ll be at least a year before he\’s 100%.

    \”We\’re making some progress there. But I still think it\’s going to be about a year of healing this wound. I\’m just tired of dressing it and undressing it. Medicating and all that s***.\”

    Ross remained positive in the face off his new treatment, saying:

    \”Life is good. I\’m alive, I have no cancer and I\’m just healing. These burns, that\’s what they look like. It looks like I\’ve been caught in a fire. But it\’s looking a lot better than it did.\”

    Jim Ross Can’t Understand Why AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam Didn’t have More Viewers

  • CM Punk\’s Dog Larry Being Injured at All Out \”Outright Lie\” (Report)

    The claims that CM Punk\’s dog Larry was injured during the backstage fight at AEW All Out may not be entirely truthful.

    Larry, a rescue from a Chicago shelter, was reportedly present during the backstage fight which pitted CM Punk and Ace Steel against the Young Bucks and Kenny Omega.

    The fight has resulted in Punk, Steel, the Bucks, and Omega (among others) being suspended from AEW, with Steel later being fired.

    Outright Lie

    This week, CM Punk\’s side claimed that Larry was injured before the fight backstage, as the Elite \’kicked\’ the door open.

    It has been said the door hit Larry in the face, resulting in two of his teeth being knocked loose and later removed.

    Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio Dave Meltzer said that when speaking to the Elite\’s side, he was told this was a complete fabrication.

    \”What was said is basically, it\’s an outright lie. I did have that told to me.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Meltzer added that the timing of this \’revelation\’ about Larry is very suspect, given that Punk\’s side has been reportedly sitting on this information for nearly two months.

    \”I had heard from his [CM Punk\’s] side on and off since a couple of days right after it happened… Never in seven weeks have I heard anyone mention anything about the door opening [and] hitting the dog. The dog being hurt or anything like that. I just find that so weird.

    \”The side that was trying to defend him, all along, never brought that up once, and now all of a sudden, that\’s the story. And like I said, the other side just called it a lie.\”

    Investigation Over

    On his show, Meltzer added that the investigation into the matter is now complete.

    He also added that judging by who was featured on AEW Dynamite last night and who wasn\’t, it\’s clear who is being punished.

    Last night\’s Dynamite saw no reference to Punk, but did feature a video package hyping the Elite\’s return.

    Investigation Into AEW All Out 2022 Backstage Fight is Over (Report)

  • Investigation Into AEW All Out 2022 Backstage Fight is Over (Report)

    The investigation into the backstage fight at AEW\’s All Out 2022 Pay-Per-View has reportedly reached its end.

    After the show, CM Punk had explosive comments during the media scrum, lashing out at the Elite, former best friend Colt Cabana, and \’Hangman\’ Adam Page.

    After Punk\’s comments, a fight broke out backstage resulting in Punk, the Elite and others being suspended.

    The Investigation

    After the fight, AEW arranged for a third-party investigation into the matter to determine what happened and who is responsible.

    Speaking on the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that while talent are banned from discussing the matter, the investigation is over.

    \”Everyone is still banned publicly from talking about what happened and the situation. The investigation is over and you can tell by who\’s back and who\’s not back [who will be punished.]\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    During this week\’s AEW Dynamite, a video promo teased the return of Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks, and the trio was reported to be backstage.

    This week\’s Dynamite saw no mention of Punk, who is believed to have thrown the first punch.

    CM Punk

    There is a growing belief that CM Punk will lose his job with AEW as all signs have pointed to him instigating the fight.

    On his show, Meltzer suggested that comments made by those close to Punk are a sign that the former World Champion is unhappy with the investigation.

    \”[Punk\’s camp] mentioned that the investigation never talked to Lucy Guy [wife of Ace Steel who was present at the fight] which is true. They never did… He mentioned that which would tell you that he was not happy with the investigation.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Ace Steel, who aided Punk in the fight, was fired from AEW last week, presumably for his role in what happened.

    Meltzer added that with AEW teasing the return of the Elite this week, while avoiding Punk, it is clear what the investigation has determined.

    \”If what happened, happened as he [Punk] claimed, it would be the other way around. He would be the one back and they would be the ones not back. So I think that is pretty clear as far as to what the investigation found.\”

    Dave Meltzer.

    Punk\’s side have claimed that the Elite kicked the door open and instigated the fight, and if Punk threw the first punch, it was because he feared that the Bucks and Omega were about to fight him.

    Backstage Update on Triple H Potentially Bringing CM Punk Back to WWE

  • CJ Perry on Miro\’s Lack of AEW TV Time: \”Tony Khan has his Favorites\”

    CJ Perry has insinuated that Miro not being a \’favorite\’ of AEW President Tony Khan has resulted in the Bulgarian not getting regular TV time.

    Miro, formerly Rusev in WWE, joined AEW in September 2020 and is a former TNT Champion.

    Over the past year though, Miro\’s TV time has greatly diminished and he has been the victim of lengthy absences from programming.

    Playing Favorites

    Weeks and months can go by without an appearance from Miro, which his wife is, unsurprisingly, not a fan of.

    During an appearance on Busted Open Radio on Tuesday, Perry was asked about her husband\’s stop-start booking in AEW (via F4W Online.)

    \”Tony Khan has his favorites and he\’s going to push the favorites just like Vince [McMahon] would push his favorites, just like Hunter is going to push his people. It\’s show business.\”

    CJ Perry on her husband\’s AEW booking.

    Miro himself has teased being unhappy in AEW, liking a tweet that suggested he would do better back in WWE.

    The Bulgarian worked for WWE from 2010 to 2020 and held the United States Championship three times.

    Miro has wrestled just one match in the past four months for AEW, competing at All Out 2022 where he teamed with Sting and Darby Allin to defeat the House of Black.

    Unhappy

    Miro doesn\’t wrestle in AEW nearly as much as he did in WWE, but the former Superstar still has big dreams.

    When asked whether her husband is enjoying his time working for Tony Khan, Perry responded:

    \”I mean, he wants to be champion so he\’s not going to be happy until he\’s champion. I\’m just going to leave it at that.\”

    CJ Perry.

    There have been rumors that AEW could sign Perry to a contract, presumably as the on-screen manager for her husband.

    Miro Addresses His Lack Of Television Time In AEW

  • Latest On Karl Anderson\’s Status With WWE and New Japan Pro Wrestling

    Will Karl Anderson miss NJPW Battle Autumn as he claims? Perhaps, but that isn\’t a bad thing.

    Earlier this month, Anderson returned to WWE as the NJPW Never Openweight Champion and was booked for a title match at Battle Autumn on November 5.

    Anderson has made it clear that he intends to compete at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5 and will miss Battle Autumn.

    The Update

    Anderson, WWE, and New Japan appear to be at odds, but that couldn\’t be further from the truth.

    Fightful Select reports that there have always been plans for the \’Machine Gun\’ to compete for New Japan despite his WWE return.

    It is unclear what will happen with the Never Openweight Championship, which NJPW has insisted must be defended at Battle Autumn or Anderson will be stripped of the title.

    The report adds that New Japan was aware that Anderson and Luke Gallows would be returning to WWE as early as August.

    Sources close to the situation said that \”things are fine\” between Anderson and the two promotions.

    More Appearances

    In their report, Fightful reported that New Japan expects more appearances from Anderson and Gallows after Battle Autumn and that WWE is fine with this.

    It was previously reported that NJPW is hopeful that Gallows and Anderson will make multiple appearances in the run-up to their big annual event Wrestle Kingdom.

    NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17 will take place on January 4, 2023, marking the first time since 2019 the show has happened in one day.

    Four matches have been announced so far, including the crowning of the inaugural NJPW World Television Champion.

  • Billy Corgan Open to the NWA Being a Developmental System for WWE

    WWE\’s new regime has shown it isn\’t afraid to work with other promotions, but could the Sports Entertainment juggernaut one day team up with the NWA?

    In 2017, the NWA was purchased by Smashing Pumpkins star Billy Corgan, who has breathed new-life into the historic part of wrestling.

    Once a governing body, the NWA\’s control over wrestling dipped in the 1980s with the rise of the WWF, and today is just one singular promotion.

    Working with WWE

    The NWA has come a long way under Corgan\’s leadership, but the promotion could soon become part of WWE\’s empire.

    Speaking to the Metro, Corgan recalled conversations he\’s had with WWE regarding getting his promotion on the WWE Network and Peacock.

    \”Very, very good discussions, very open and cool. They certainly liked what I was trying to do, and they\’ve always been cool about what I was doing in the NWA, so I remain optimistic going into the future that there might be some business there to do.\”

    Billy Corgan.

    Corgan added that the NWA could potentially be a developmental brand for the WWE where he can \”help develop\” wrestlers who aren\’t main-roster ready.

    Other Options

    Corgan is open to working with WWE, but they\’re not the only promotion on the Smashing Pumpkin star\’s radar.

    In the interview, Corgan added that he is willing to work in a similar way with All Elite Wrestling, saying the Tony Khan-run company \”has a tremendous amount of talent under contract.\”

    While WWE uses NXT as their developmental program, AEW features young talent on Dark and Dark: Elevation before calling them to Dynamite or Rampage.

    NWA Host Talent-Wide Meeting After Recent Tapings

  • Report: 13-Year WWE Event \”Completely Dead\” Thanks to Triple H

    One of WWE\’s staple events of the past 13 years is said to be \”completely dead\” as part of changes made under the new regime.

    Since July, Triple H has operated as both Head of Creative and Head of Talent Relations, implementing several changes.

    The Game\’s tenure has seen several released Superstars be rehired, including Bray Wyatt, Braun Strowman, Karrion Kross, and Hit Row among others.

    Completely Dead

    \"WWE

    Triple H isn\’t just changing the rosters of WWE, but is also changing the line-up of Premium Live Events. According to Wrestle Votes, the annual Hell in a Cell Premium Live Event is said to be \”completely dead\” and will not return next year.

    Speaking to GiveMeSport, Wrestle Votes explained Triple H\’s personal attachment to the stipulation.

    \”That match, from what I understand, means a lot to Hunter, just think of the classics that he’s had in there. Roman Reigns & Jey, so they’ve been feuding for six weeks. They got to be there now because the calendar says so… That’s not going to happen anymore.”

    Wrestle Votes.

    Triple H entered Hell in a Cell for the first time at No Way Out 2000 with a victory over Cactus Jack, and has competed in the match nine times.

    The King of Kings has the second most Cell appearances (behind The Undertaker at 14) and boasts a 66.6% win rate.

    It is believed that the stipulation will still be used but only when the storyline demands it.

    More Changes

    WWE Hell in a Cell may be finished as an event, but it may not be the only show on the chopping block.

    This month, it was reported that WWE\’s new regime will move away from stipulation events, meaning shows like Elimination Chamber and WWE TLC could also be scrapped.

    WWE is also reportedly interested in hosting more international Premium Live Events, following the monumental success of WWE Clash at the Castle in Cardiff, Wales.

    3 Reasons to Love WWE’s New Premium Live Events Strategy

  • The Kingdom Signed to Full-Time Contracts with AEW

    The Kingdom has become the newest team to be All Elite, after signing full-time deals with AEW.

    The group currently consists of Matt Taven, Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis-Bennett and debuted for AEW during the October 14, episode of Rampage.

    The group has previously worked in Ring of Honor and recently finished up with Impact Wrestling.

    All-Elite

    Despite debuting close to two weeks ago, The Kingdom were not signed to AEW at that time.

    Fightful Select reports that Taven and Bennett lost the Impact Wrestling World Tag Team Championships during the Bound for Glory tapings, but the match hasn\’t aired yet.

    This means that given delay, the group were in canon, still Impact\’s top team when they appeared on Rampage.

    The report adds that all three members of The Kingdom have signed multi-year deals with AEW.

    WWE

    Before appearing on the October 14, Rampage, it was reported that WWE had been interested in signing Matt Taven.

    In their report, Fightful notes that both Mike and Maria had conversations with WWE, but clearly did not reach an agreement.

    It is not currently known if a firm offer was made by Head of Talent Relations Triple H.

    All three signings had been part of Impact\’s Honor No More stable, alongside Vincent, who was backstage at a recent Monday Night Raw.

    Friends

    The Kingdom debuted by challenging FTR for the Ring of Honor World Tag Team Championships, but the two groups aren\’t enemies.

    In fact, Fightful\’s report noted that it was FTR who were pushing backstage for Taven and the Bennetts to be hired.

    While Maria has openly discussed helping Tony Khan with the ROH Women\’s division, she is contracted solely as an on-screen performer.

    Matt Taven Shares When He Found Out About ROH Hiatus

  • Britt Baker on \’Toxic\’ Wrestlers: Anybody Can be Replaced in AEW

    Dr. Britt Baker DMD has become one of AEW\’s most featured stars, but she\’s well aware that she could be replaced.

    Baker signed with AEW in January 2019 and was the first female wrestler to ink a deal with the upstart promotion.

    At Double or Nothing 2021, Baker captured the AEW Women\’s World Championship and held the title for 290 days before losing the gold to reigning Champion Thunder Rosa.

    Replaceable

    Baker is, to many fans, the biggest female star in AEW today but is aware that this is only thanks to Tony Khan.

    Speaking on the Swerve City podcast, Baker spoke about what she believes to be the most \’toxic\’ attitude a professional wrestler can have.

    \”What’s so toxic is when somebody thinks they’re bigger than the company. Or that the company needs them. There’s literally no one in AEW that they need, other than Tony Khan to survive. Everybody can be replaced.”

    – Britt Baker

    Baker is currently embroiled in a feud with Saraya, who debuted at the AEW Grand Slam: Dynamite show last month.

    A match between the two, which would be Saraya\’s first match in nearly five years, is yet to be announced.

    Baker Vs. Rosa

    Baker\’s on-screen feud with Thunder Rosa is long over, but there is reportedly very real beef between the two.

    It was reported earlier this year that Rosa has significant heat, not just with Baker but in the AEW locker room, especially after breaking the nose of Jamie Hayter.

    Rosa is currently out of action with an injury but has not been stripped of the AEW Women\’s World Championship.

    Some have claimed that the injury is not legitimate and that AEW is using this as an excuse to keep her away from the locker room, a claim Rosa has denied.

    It has also been claimed that Rosa has exaggerated her real injury, as she only told AEW of the injury after learning she\’d be losing her title to Toni Storm at All Out 2022.

    Britt Baker Comments on Thunder Rosa’s Hiatus from AEW: “I Was at Work Every Week”

    HT: PWTorch