SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • WWE May Have Done Away with Another Vince McMahon-Era Rule

    In July, Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE, bringing his four-decade-plus run as head of the company to an end. 

    McMahon\’s retirement came one month after stepping down as CEO and Chairman of the promotion, due to the ongoing investigation against him. 

    The now former Chairman is alleged to have paid millions in NDAs to female employees he had extramarital relationships with, with at least one claim of pressuring a woman into sex. 

    The Change

    Since McMahon retired, a lot have changes have happened, and now a subtle change may have been revealed.

    During last weekend\’s Clash at the Castle event, a six-woman tag opened the main show, pitting Damage Control against Raw Women\’s Champion Bianca Belair, Asuka and Alexa Bliss. 

    During multiple parts of the match, there was interference from both teams that did not result in a disqualification. 

    On the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer pointed out that Damage Control were not DQ\’d when IYO SKY performed a moonsault on Belair. 

    Meltzer explained how for years, the act of an illegal Superstar attacking the legal opponent would have resulted in a DQ, and suggested that the rule has been removed in this post-Vince McMahon era.

    Other Changes

    There have been several changes made to WWE since McMahon\’s retirement, which have been well-received by fans. 

    WWE has undone the ban on certain words, including \”hospital\” and \”wrestler\” which were outlawed during recent years under McMahon. 

    WWE is also undoing McMahon\’s ban on real names, which has resulted in Austin Theory getting his first name back.

    Cody Rhodes on WWE Rule: ‘They Can Fine Me Every Time’

  • Tony Khan Explains How MJF\’s AEW Return Came About

    AEW All Out 2022 is in the history books and has proven to be yet another huge night for the promotion.

    In the main event, CM Punk regained the AEW World Championship from Jon Moxley in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois, and had fiery comments for the roster after the show.

    Toni Storm captured the Interim AEW Women\’s World Championship, marking her first title since joining the promotion.

    MJF

    During the Casino Ladder Match, a mystery man won the bout with the help of Stokely Hathaway, and earned an AEW World Championship match.

    After the main event, the mystery man was revealed to be MJF, making his return after a three-month hiatus from TV.

    During the All Out post-show media scrum, Khan explained the decision to bring MJF back (via Wrestling Inc.)

    \”I\’m the one who asked him to come back, because MJF\’s a big star in this company, and this is one of the biggest events.

    \”A year ago, CM Punk debuted here, and I thought it was right for the fans … For the fans, I thought the best that would do as a company was bring MJF back.\”

    MJF\’s Absence

    MJF\’s return at All Out 2022 comes three months after an explosive worked-shoot promo about AEW.

    Channeling alleged real-life issues with the promotion, MJF addressed how former WWE Superstars are reported to be paid much more than homegrown AEW talent.

    The promo culminated in MJF begging Tony Khan to fire him, believing he would do better in AEW if he had a few years with WWE to his name.

    Chris Jericho Shares His Shocking Take on MJF

  • AEW Star Teases Leaving the Company at All Out (Video)

    Malakai Black, leader of AEW\’s House of Black faction, appears to be on his way out of the company.

    Sunday\’s All Out pay-per-view from Chicago was another huge night for Tony Khan\’s promotion, but could also mark the end of the line for Black. At least, for the foreseeable future.The House of Black competed in the penultimate match on the card. In six-man tag-team action, the House of Black lost to Sting, Darby Allin and Miro.

    After the match concluded, the House of Black embraced one another at ringside.

    The group exited the ringside area. As they arrived on the stage, Black blew a kiss to the audience and bowed. Here\’s footage of the scene, courtesy of Twitter user KayyDott:

    Leaving AEW?

    In the run-up to AEW All Out 2022, it had been reported that Black had requested his release from the promotion.

    Wrestling reporter Raj Giri recently stated that that Black \”has repeatedly shown concerns about his mental health due to personal life and demoralization due to the booking and handling of his character.\”

    A follow-up report from PW Insider indicated Black is dealing with \”a personal situation\” that\’s been weighing heavily on him. \”He\’s privately talked about taking a long, perhaps permanent, break from professional wrestling.\”

    AEW President Tony Khan was asked about the situation during the post-show media scrum, but had no comment about Malakai Black\’s symbolic bow.

  • Backstage Chaos Following CM Punk\’s Explosive Comments at AEW All Out Media Scrum (Updated)

    CM Punk won the AEW World Championship for a second time by defeating Jon Moxley in the main event of Sunday\’s AEW All Out pay-per-view.

    Punk appeared at the post-All Out media scrum and had some harsh words for Colt Cabana and some of AEW\’s top stars. Punk also blasted AEW\’s Executive Vice Presidents (Young Bucks and Kenny Omega), accusing them of \”spreading lies and bullsh*t\” and claiming they \”couldn’t f*cking manage a Target.\”

    Punk also took some shots at Hangman Adam Page, who he called \”an empty-headed f*cking dumb f*ck.\”

    Backstage Melee

    Punk\’s remarks about Colt Cabana, Hangman Page and AEW\’s Executive Vice Presidents led to chaos backstage at the Now Center.

    After Punk finished speaking, a \”melee\” broke out between Punk and the Young Bucks. Bryan Alvarez, who was in attendance for the scrum, stated on Wrestling Observer Radio that there was an \”altercation\” that saw security rushing to restore order.

    AEW President Tony Khan was completely unaware of what was happening, because he was participating in the scrum and did not have his phone on him (and nobody pulled him aside to inform him).

    Fightful reports that Punk has significant heat with the locker room after his comments. Omega and the Bucks said to be furious about his comments. It\’s reported that at least one of them threatened to walk out of the company due to what was said.

    The Elite had been scheduled to speak at the media scrum, but decided against speaking after Punk\’s comments.

    Watch the full AEW All Out media scrum:

  • Update on Plans for Jeff Jarrett after WWE Release

    In May, WWE rehired Jeff Jarrett as their Senior Vice President of Live Events, though his tenure in the role was short.

    Last month, it was reported that Jarrett had been released from WWE, and it later transpired that \’Road Dogg\’ Jesse James had taken the SVP role.

    Road Dogg (who ironically began his WWE career as the \’roadie\’ for Jarrett) was released in January 2022 but rehired for the SVP role.

    Jarrett After WWE

    With Jarrett now out of WWE, the Hall of Famer/former WCW World Heavyweight Champion is now able to appear elsewhere.

    During a recent episode of his \’My World\’ podcast, Jarrett and co-host Conrad Thompson announced that they will be going to Mexico in a few weeks.

    While the pair did not specify the reason for the trip, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that they could be there to collaborate with AAA.

    It was noted that Jarrett could appear at some of the company\’s events in the future, but no deal between him and AAA has been confirmed.

    Thompson did clarify that neither he nor Jarrett are making the trip to start their own promotion.

    Jarrett and AAA

    Jarrett is no stranger to AAA, having appeared for the promotion multiple times over the years.

    In 2005, AAA promoters called police to a show at the El Toreo arena in Mexico City, fearing that a full-scale riot was going to happen.

    Jarrett had infuriated fans by throwing tortillas into the audience and fans rushed into the ring multiple times during the main event.

    Double-J became AAA Mega Champion in 2019 and had been feuding with Latin Lover recently until the feud was dropped due to Jarrett\’s WWE commitments.

    Jeff Jarrett Believes There’s Room For Multiple Major Wrestling Promotions

  • A \”Serious\” Offer has been Made to Bray Wyatt – Not by WWE

    WWE shocked fans in July 2021 when they decided to release Bray Wyatt, despite the former Universal Champion being over with the audience.

    Wyatt\’s reinvention as \’The Fiend\’ in 2019 had made the once-fledgling Superstar into one of the most unique characters fans had ever seen in the company.

    Bray hasn\’t wrestled since his controversial release, making his most recent match his WrestleMania 37 loss to Randy Orton.

    The Offer

    Bray has vowed that he is not done wrestling, but when his next match will be remains uncertain.

    In a new report from Fightful Select, there is reportedly a standing offer from a \”startup wrestling company\” for Wyatt to join.

    A source who spoke to Fightful said the offer was \”serious\” but there is no word on whether Wyatt is interested.

    It was heavily implied that the offer came from Freddie Prinze Jr. who announced earlier this year that he is starting his own promotion.

    It was also mentioned in Fightful\’s report that AEW had \”at least some interest\” in signing Wyatt.

    Bray and Freddie

    Bray Wyatt may soon be working for Freddie Prinze Jr. in the She\’s All That actor\’s new promotion.

    During a June episode of his \’Wrestling with Freddie\’ podcast, Prinze said that he has revenue for a \”three-year plan.\”

    Prinze also declared that he plans for his promotion to be a SAG show, meaning employees will be members of the Screen Actors Guild union.

    Being part of SAG will make sure employees are entitled to all the insurance and medical benefits and retirement plans.

    However, attempts to unionize in wrestling in the past have failed and being a SAG member could harm a wrestler\’s future bookings.

    Bray Wyatt Resurfaces With a Poetic Take on Pro Wrestling

  • WWE Disappointed With Gable Steveson\’s Training Progress (Report)

    When WWE signed Gable Steveson to a contract in late 2021, there was a lot of buzz around the young athlete.

    Steveson had just won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics (which took place in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and had been considering his options.

    It had been suggested that Steveson would sign with AEW, or possibly enter the Octagon for a career in MMA.

    Going Cold

    Steveson impressed in last year\’s Summer Olympics, but his skills haven\’t transitioned into pro wrestling.

    In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it\’s reported that WWE has gone \”cold\” on the Olympic Gold Medalist, as the reviews of him in training have been poor.

    There were plans for Steveson to be fast-tracked to the main roster after he finished his last amateur season in March, but that hasn\’t been talked about in some time.

    Steveson appeared at WrestleMania: Saturday, celebrating with RK-Bro and the Street Profits, and suplexing Chad Gable (a fellow Olympian) with ease.

    Family Ties

    Gable Steveson isn\’t doing too well in training to be a WWE Superstar, but the opposite is the case for his brother.

    Bobby Steveson, aka Damon Kemp has said to be doing \”great\” according to the Observer.

    Kemp made his WWE in-ring debut in December 2021, in a losing effort to Andre Chase on 205 Live and would have to wait until a March 2022 edition of NXT LVL UP to get his first victory.

    In addition to competing on NXT LVL UP and 205 Live, Kemp has worked on NXT and NXT UK.

    Gable Steveson Reacts to WrestleMania Moment, GCW Confirms Dates & Venue for the Collective 2023

  • Malakai Black Calls WWE\’s Judgment Day a Copy of The House of Black

    In January, Malakai Black began teaming with Brody King, forming the team the \’House of Black.\’

    This came after months of Black teasing that a stable was in the works, and in February, 2022, fellow WWE alum Buddy Matthews debuted for AEW and became the group\’s third member.

    Most recently, the group added Julia Hart to the faction, who had previously been aligned with the Varsity Blonds.

    Mimicking the House of Black

    The House of Black are a dark stable, but they\’re not the only macabre group in wrestling today.

    At WrestleMania 38, Edge began The Judgment Day with Damian Priest, before adding Rhea Ripley and Finn Balor.

    Balor\’s arrival also marked the end of Edge\’s time with the faction, and the WWE Hall of Famer has been feuding with The Judgment Day since then.

    Speaking on his Twitch stream, Black addressed the comparisons between the group.

    \”I was well aware that WWE were going to basically mimic the House of Black. Y\’know, what can I do? It is what it is. It only tells me that what we\’re doing is clearly something that is very interesting and going very well.\”

    \”It only tells me that what we\’re doing is clearly something that is very interesting.\”

    Malakai Black on WWE \’mimicking\’ the House of Black with The Judgment Day.

    \”I\’m well aware of it. Nothing I can do. I\’m going to continue what I do because I\’ll always be one step ahead. I have no cuffs. The reason why it [The House of Black] works is because it\’s myself and two other people who have great minds for it.\”

    The Judgment Day\’s Damian Priest and Finn Balor will face Edge and Rey Mysterio at tomorrow\’s WWE Clash at the Castle event in Cardiff, Wales.

    Malakai Black On His Relationship With Tony Khan

    If using quotes, please give a h/t to SEScoops.

  • AEW: Fight Forever to be Featured at Tokyo Games Show

    So far, All Elite Wrestling has released two games for mobile devices, the AEW Double or Nothing Casino game, and AEW Elite General Manager.

    Fans and gamers are eagerly anticipating the launch of AEW: Fight Forever, the first console wrestling video game by the company.

    The game is rumored to launch later this year for all expected consoles as well as PC.

    Tokyo Games Show

    \"\"
    Tokyo Games Show 2022

    A lot is riding on the success of AEW: Fight Forever, with reports that AEW has invested an eight-figure sum (at least $10 million) into their gaming department.

    Fans in Tokyo, Japan will soon get to check out the upcoming game themselves, as it has been confirmed that AEW: Fight Forever will be featured at the upcoming Games Show.

    In addition to the game, there will also be live wrestling at the Games Show featuring talent from AEW, though no matches have been confirmed so far.

    This is similar to AEW\’s recent visit to Cologne, Germany for GamesCon 2022, where Fight Forever won Best Game in the Sports/Racing category.

    Tokyo Games Show 2022 will take place from September 15, to September 18, and will also feature Xbox, Capcom, and Konami at the event.

    What we know about AEW: Fight Forever

    At GamesCon, Evil Uno and Colt Cabana spoke about AEW: Fight Forever, promoting a rich story for the game.

    The pair confirmed a “deep career mode” which will see players go “on the road” with AEW in this mode and select a manager as well.

    It was also said that online play will be a large part of the game.

    Possible Reason FTR Was Cut from AEW: Fight Forever Video Game

  • Daniel Garcia Gives his Pick for the Greatest of All Time

    Daniel Garcia has been with AEW for less than a year, but has made a name for himself working with several top stars.

    Garcia has proven he can hold his own against the likes of Bryan Danielson, as well as facing Jon Moxley and Sammy Guevara.

    In addition to working with All Elite Wrestling, Garcia competes for Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, where he is the reigning PWG World Champion.

    The Greatest of All Time

    Daniel Garcia may be an established member of the Jericho Appreciation Society, but the first-ever AEW World Champion is not the greatest ever.

    In a Q&A with Bleacher Report, Garcia was asked about working with Bryan Danielson, and had nothing but praise for the American Dragon.

    \”I think Bryan is the greatest wrestler of all time. I think his body of work speaks for itself. His longevity, the matches he\’s had across different countries, different promotions, different areas; it really speaks for itself. And being able to share the ring with somebody with that wealth of knowledge, and in a style that I\’ve always appreciated so much, is really special to me.

    \”I think Bryan [Danielson] is the greatest wrestler of all time.\”

    Daniel Garcia.

    Garcia added that he is content if he never wrestles Danielson again, as he is still learning from the matches he\’s already had with the former WWE World Champion.

    Still part of JAS?

    Last week\’s AEW Dynamite opened with Garcia speaking about the prior week\’s show, where he, Danielson and Jericho had a segment.

    That segment saw the two veterans plead their case as to why Garcia should side with them, but the young star left without making a clear decision.

    When asked, Garcia confirmed he is still part of the Jericho Appreciation Society.

    \”\”It\’s not something that you just say that you\’re in or out of. It\’s a brotherhood.\”

    Daniel Garcia.

    The segment between the three led to a match between Jericho and Danielson being confirmed for this Sunday\’s AEW All Out.

    Daniel Garcia Is A Huge Fan Of Bryan Danielson, Talks Similarities In Style

  • Latest on WWE\’s Plans for Solo Sikoa on the Main Roster

    Late last year, as part of the revamped NXT 2.0, Solo Sikoa debuted on WWE Television. 

    Despite being part of the legendary Anoi\’i wrestling family, Solo, as his name suggests, has gone it alone in NXT 2.0

    Sikoa has been absent in recent weeks, as he is recovering from a sprained PCL.

    The Call-Up

    Solo Sikoa has impressed fans during his run in WWE NXT 2.0, but it may be about to come to an end. 

    According to PW Insider, the plan isn\’t just for Sikoa to be called up to the main roster, but for it to happen as soon as possible, maybe even this month. 

    This report is hardly surprising, as it has been previously reported that WWE planned on fast-tracking Sikoa to the main roster. 

    PW Insider also confirmed reports that Sikoa will be on SmackDown if the current plans don\’t change, the same brand as his brothers Undisputed WWE Tag Champions The Usos and his cousin Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns.

    The recovery window for his sprained PCL would line up with a debut on the main roster at some point this month. 

    Sikoa celebrated one year of being with WWE earlier this week.

    https://twitter.com/WWESoloSikoa/status/1564725858157449216

    Another Call-Up

    Solo Sikoa could be just days away from his debut on the main roster, but he\’s not the only call-up being considered. 

    It\’s been reported that WWE has considered Indi Hartwell for a call-up, presumably as part of Monday Night Raw.

    Hartwell\’s on-screen husband Dexter Lumis has been appearing on Raw since being rehired by Triple H last month. 

    Lumis and Hartwell recently reunited on the August 23, 2022, episode of NXT 2.0.

  • WWE Looking for More Ways to Use The Undertaker After Retirement

    For years, The Undertaker refused to break character, and his dedication to being the character earned him the respect of fans and his peers alike.

    Since his Final Farewell at Survivor Series 2020, The Undertaker has taken on more out-of-character projects, both as part of WWE and outside of the promotion.

    Fans learned a lot more about the man from the acclaimed \’Last Ride\’ series on the WWE Network and Peacock, as well as his appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast.

    More Opportunities

    This weekend, The Undertaker will host a \’1deadMAN Show\’ in Cardiff, as part of WWE\’s Clash at the Castle festivities in the Welsh capital.

    It has also been confirmed that the Phenom will host another one-man show on October 7, at TLA on South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in time for WWE Extreme Rules 2022.

    PW Insider reports that WWE is figuring out more ways “to utilize The Undertaker going forward post-retirement.” 

    It is unclear what plans, if any, WWE has lined up other than his upcoming one-man shows this weekend and next month.

    Out of the Ring

    \"\"
    The Undertaker makes a surprise appearance at San Diego Comic Con.

    The Undertaker is certainly enjoying retired life, and has been speaking freely with fans at public appearances.

    In July, the former WWE World Champion made a surprise appearance at the Mattel panel at San Diego Comic-Con.

    The Undertaker joined a panel consisting of Cody Rhodes (who has been out with a torn pectoral since June,) Ciampa, Zelina Vega, and Sam Roberts who acted as host.

    The panel revealed new WWE Mattel figures in the works, including a 30th Anniversary Monday Night Raw set, which includes figures of Razor Ramon the 1-2-3 Kid and The Undertaker himself.

  • NWA Host Talent-Wide Meeting After Recent Tapings

    It was reported last month that AEW held a talent-wide meeting prior to an episode of Dynamite, to discuss and address reports of wrestlers being frustrated.

    The meeting, led by Tony Khan, also saw Chris Jericho and Tony Schiavone speak about the roster, Khan, and allegations of contract tampering by WWE.

    PW Insider reports that NWA also recently hosted a talent-wide meeting to discuss issues within the promotion.

    The Meeting

    The meeting got off to a rocky start, as due to a production meeting running late, the time for the talent-wide meeting was also delayed.

    Jay Bradley and Sal Rinauro acted as if they were running the meeting and were in charge, which some initially thought was a rib.

    Others took offense that the two took it on themselves to begin the meeting, as veteran wrestlers including Bully Ray, Jazz and Homicide were present, and seen as far more \’deserving\’ to speak.

    It has been reported that some wrestlers walked out once they \”realized\” Bradley and Rinauro had \”called for the meeting\” as well but that has not been confirmed.

    It was clarified that Bradley and Rinauro did not call the meeting, which \”ruffled some feathers\” with talent.

    Clean Up

    After the meeting, Luke Hawx spoke about having respect for the locker room, and made it clear that people need to clean up after themselves.

    Hawx said that while people are asked to tidy after themselves, others have been left to spend time cleaning up food and others items after events are completed.

    He pointed out that Billy Corgan is investing a lot of money in the NWA and the roster, and the least they can do is show the locker room common respect.

    Hawx was said to be in \”that realm so certainly, some of that may have turned off others but we were told his heart was in the right place.\”

    Billy Corgan Confirms Plans for Future NWA Empowerrr Event

  • What Happened with Kenny Omega After AEW Dynamite Went Off the Air?

    This week\’s edition of AEW Dynamite took place in Chicago, Illinois, and served as the go-home show for the All Out 2022 Pay Per View this Sunday.

    Last night\’s episode saw the main event of All Out be confirmed that AEW Undisputed World Champion Jon Moxley will defend against CM Punk.

    In the main event of this week\’s Dynamite, Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks defeated the United Empire to advance to the finals of the AEW Trios Tag Title Tournament.

    The other finalists will be determined on tomorrow night\’s Rampage, with the finals scheduled for All Out.

    After the Show

    Once AEW Dynamite went off the air, Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks remained in the ring to the delight of the crowd. He spoke about how great it was to be in Chicago, which he called the birthplace of AEW.

    The former AEW World Champion also said that it had become a privilege and a purpose to provide an alternative (though didn\’t reference WWE by name) in professional wrestling.

    While speaking about the upcoming Trios Tournament finals, Omega and the Bucks were attacked by the United Empire.

    Grabbing the microphone, Will O\’Spreay said that things between himself and Omega aren\’t over by a long shot, before continuing his attack with a steel chair.

    Despite the best efforts of the Young Bucks to protect their tag-team partner, the two were attacked, and the United Empire only left after Ospreay relieved an elbow to Omega.

    After the attack, Omega was helped to the back by officials at ringside.

  • Impact Wrestling\’s Joe Doering Battling Cancer for the Second Time

    Impact Wrestling star Joe Doering is taking an extended break from wrestling due to being diagnosed with cancer.

    A two-time Impact World Tag Team Champion, Doering signed with the promotion in 2020, after making appearances for the company (then TNA Wrestling) from 2005 to 2006.

    In July, Doering had his first World Championship opportunity, facing Josh Alexander at Against All Odds but was unsuccessful.

    The Statement

    In a statement to ImpactWrestling.Com, Doering confirmed that he is facing cancer once again, and is thinking positively about the future.

    \” They told me in 2016 that I would never wrestle again, and I proved them wrong. Guess I’m going to have to do it again

    Joe Doering.

    Doering told Impact Wrestling officials of his cancer diagnosis at last weekend’s TV taping at The Factory in Dallas, Texas.

    The six-foot-five wrestler called the Impact locker room his \”family,\” and looks forward to seeing them very soon.

    Scott D’Amore, IMPACT Wrestling Executive Vice President added that Impact\’s employees, fans, and wider community all wish Joe a speedy recovery and are looking forward to seeing him wrestle again.

    Joe is set to undergo surgery in the coming weeks.

    First Diagnosis

    Doering\’s recent diagnosis marks the second time the wrestler will battle cancer.

    In February 2016, he was diagnosed with brain cancer, and successful treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation beat the tumor.

    Doering was back in the ring in just one year\’s time, though doctors told him that his cancer could return.

    We at SEScoops would like to send our best wishes to Joe, his wife Lindsay, and their family at this time.

    IMPACT Wrestling Against All Odds 2022 Results (7/1)

  • John Cena Needed a Drink After Watching The Marine

    Since leaving WWE, John Cena has become a leading man in Hollywood, working in huge franchises like the Fast and the Furious.

    Last year, Cena became Christopher Smith/Peacemaker for \’The Suicide Squad,\’ and reprised the role for the Peacemaker series on HBO Max.

    In February, Peacemaker was renewed for its second season following critical acclaim for the show.

    The Marine

    Before Cena was sharing the screen with the likes of Margot Robbie and Vin Diesel, his first leading role was in The Marine.

    The 2006 action film sees Cena as discharged U.S. Marine John Triton who must rescue his wife Kate (Kelly Carlson) after being kidnapped by gangsters led by Rome (Robert Patrick.)

    The film was Cena\’s first time as the main star, but the 16-time WWE Champion wasn\’t thrilled with the final project.

    In his book \’There\’s Just One Problem,\’ ex-WWE Head Writer Brian Gewirtz recalls watching the final cut of the film with Cena, weeks before the premiere.

    \”We sat in silence after it was over, both of us realizing it didn\’t really capitalize on John\’s strengths and probably wasn\’t going to make any year-end \’Best Picture\’ lists. Finally, John broke the tension by simply saying \’we need to go drink.\’\”

    \”We need to go drink.\”

    John Cena\’s less than favorable review to his first watching of \’The Marine.\’

    Gewirtz explained that while The Marine is no doubt an action film, it gave little opportunity for Cena to show his range as an actor and prevented him from sharing his funny side.

    The Marine Today

    Cena\’s role as John Triton would be the first and last time he would be in the franchise.

    The Marine 2, starring Ted DiBiase Jr. released in 2009 without a theatrical release, as did the rest of the series.

    The Marine films 3 to 6 all starred The Miz in the leading role as \’Jake Carter.\’

    John Cena Gives Status Update for Clash At The Castle

    For the use of quotes please h/t SESCoops.

  • Eddie Kingston Has a Match for AEW All Out – Won\’t Face Sammy Guevara

    This weekend, AEW will present its annual All Out Pay Per View from the Now Arena, in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.

    Nine matches have been confirmed for the main card, including the finals of the AEW Trios Tag Title Tournament, and a fatal-four-way for the Interim AEW Women\’s World Championship.

    While not confirmed, it is expected that AEW Undisputed World Champion Jon Moxley will face CM Punk in the show\’s main event.

    Kingston Gets a Match

    In addition to the main card, AEW All Out 2022 will feature a Zero Hour pre-show before the Pay Per View gets started.

    On Twitter, AEW President Tony Khan confirmed the Zero Hour event, which will be free to view for fans, and that it will feature Eddie Kingston taking on Tomohiro Ishii.

    Khan hyped up the match as a rematch of their bout from Capital Collison in May this year.

    At that NJPW event, Ishii got the win after a hard-hitting 16-minute match with Kingston.

    No Guevara

    Kingston Vs. Ishii should be an excellent match on the pre-show, but it is not the match fans were expecting.

    It has been reported that Kingston recently completed a suspension, rumored to have lasted two weeks, over an incident with Sammy Guevara.

    During a promo, Guevara called Kingston a \”fat son of a b***h\”, a line that Kingston was not aware of ahead of time.

    A segment that would\’ve seen the two make the match official was filmed last week but was cut before the show made it to air.

    Sammy Guevara Issues Statement on Backstage Incident With Eddie Kingston

  • Latest on USA Network\’s Reaction to Changes to WWE Monday Night Raw

    Since Vince McMahon retired from WWE, the promotion has undergone several changes both on screen and behind the scenes.

    With McMahon gone, Paul \’Triple H\’ Levesque has replaced him as Head of Creative and replaced McMahon loyalist John Laurinaitis as Head of Talent Relations.

    On-screen, there have been several returns, including Johnny Gargano, Dexter Lumis, Hit Row, Dakota Kai, Karrion Kross, and Scarlett.

    USA Reacts

    For the most part, the changes made to WWE post-Vince McMahon have been met with acclaim from the fans.

    According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, NBC-Universal and those at the USA Network have also been pleased with the changes.

    The report states that the Network is pleased that Raw viewership has improved, after a difficult few years.

    Noting that the pandemic changed \”everything\” one source said they never imagined Raw would drop below two million viewers, particularly on a consistent basis.

    Since the changes were implemented, Raw has consistently been over two million viewers.

    Another source said they expect the ratings at SmackDown on FOX to increase as well.

    One person from the USA Network said that Raw feels more natural, and it has become \”appointment viewing,\” a term for a show that people make plans to see.

    Another longtime USA Network employee said that the relationship between the network and WWE has been very easygoing, but has gotten even better as of late.

    That source said they would be surprised if USA didn’t try to renew WWE programming when negotiations begin next year.

    WWE TV Has More Wrestling Since Triple H Took Over Creative

  • Indie Wrestler Competes for WWE and AEW on the Same Night

    WWE and All Elite Wrestling have been in a battle for years to establish which brand of pro wrestling is dominant.

    While AEW would win the Wednesday Night Wars, resulting in NXT moving to Tuesdays, the two companies continue to compete for fans and that all-important 18-49 demographic.

    Double-Feature

    For wrestlers, competing on AEW or WWE programming can be a huge step in their careers, and now Katie Arquette has done both on the same night.

    On this week\’s Raw, Arquette, working under the name Katie Arks, teamed with Dani Mo and Kay Sparks, in a squash match loss to Raw Women\’s Champion Bianca Belair, Asuka, and Alexa Bliss.

    The self-professed \’Queen of the Silver Screen\’ didn\’t have much better luck on AEW programming, losing to Serena Deeb on Dark: Elevation.

    Arquette is the second person to achieve this impressive feat, after Cameron Stewart competed on Raw and AEW Dark in September 2021.

    Katie Arquette

    Despite her name, Katie is no relation to former WCW World Heavyweight Champion David Arquette, though the two have appeared in the ring together.

    After training, Arquette made her professional wrestling debut at IWC Proving Ground 6 in February 2017, in a losing effort to future AEW star and then-IWC Women’s Champion Dr. Britt Baker.

    A year later, Arquette would challenge Baker again for the title, this time getting the win, which she told Daily DDT was \”just incredible.\”

    Arquette would celebrate with David Arquette, who was also at the show, and would give her a fur coat which she still wears for matches to this day.

  • AEW DVD\’s No Longer For Sale Online

    AEW has accumulated a huge fanbase since launching back in January 2019, which has in turn made the company a fortune in merchandise sales.

    T-Shirts, hats, action figures and memorabilia are all available to buy from the company directly at ShopAEW.com, while shirts can be purchased from their global online shop.

    AEW has a lot of merchandise available to fans, but some content is no longer available to buy. Admit discussions about AEW finding a streaming home with parent company Warner Bros. Discovery, it\’s interesting to note that all AEW DVD\’s have been pulled from the AEW Shop and Pro Wrestling Tees.

    At this time, Ring of Honor Supercard of Honor XV, the first ROH after the company\’s purchase by AEW President Tony Khan, remains available on Pro Wrestling Tees.

    No explanation has been given as to why the AEW DVDs have been removed from both websites.

    Streaming Deal Imminent?

    AEW has given no reason publicly to pull their DVDs, though the act has fueled rumors of an AEW Network.

    The idea of an AEW streaming service, akin to WWE\’s award-winning Network, has been something fans have been wanting to see for a long time.

    In October 2021, Tony Khan said he was \”trying to build the library up\” in an interview with Brandon Walker of Rasslin.

    After purchasing Ring of Honor earlier this year, Khan gave an update on plans for a streaming service, saying he was working to make sure ROH\’s large video library is available to fans.

    MJF Removed From AEW Roster & Shop Pages

  • Buff Bagwell Enters Rehab After Experiencing Relapse

    In WCW, few stars were more excitable than Marcus \’Buff\’ Bagwell, who worked for the promotion from 1991 to 2001.

    A five-time WCW World Tag Team Champion, Bagwell would later join the WWF but his career only lasted for one match.

    Considered by many to be the worst Raw main event, Bagwell faced Booker T on the July 2, 2001 episode, and was released from the company for reported \’attitude issues\’ not long after.

    In recent years, Bagwell has been dealing with numerous substance abuse and legal issues.

    Relapsing

    As of late, the former WCW star has been working with WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page, who helped changed the lives of Jake Roberts and Scott Hall among others.

    Unfortunately, Bagwell has relapsed, as DDP explained in a video on his YouTube channel (via ITR Wrestling.)

    \”Because of some of the negative influences and Mark’s life, and I’m talking about people who love him and enable him. He’s had a relapse. So we had a meeting with all of my people and Marcus. And we all agreed that it was time for him to go to a rehab facility.\”

    DDP added that Bagwell is in a positive mindset, but will have to cancel some upcoming scheduled appearances due to rehab.

    \”he needs to take care of himself. Addiction. We all know someone who’s fighting it. And it’s a tough place

    DDP on Buff Bagwell missing scheduled appearances.

    We at SEScoops with Buff nothing but the best as he works hard to get back on track.

    JBL Denies Trying To End Buff Bagwell’s Career

  • Possible Reason FTR Was Cut from AEW: Fight Forever Video Game

    So far, AEW has released two mobile games for fans to play, the Double or Nothing Casino game and AEW Elite GM.

    Right now, AEW is working on its first console video game, AEW: Fight Forever, which is hotly anticipated by fans and gamers alike.

    Fight Forever will be the first wrestling action game by the company, allowing fans to play as their favorite AEW stars

    FTR Pulled

    Fans will get to play as their favorite AEW talent, with Kenny Omega, Adam Cole and Bryan Danielson just some of the names confirmed, but they won\’t be playing as FTR.

    It was reported this week that FTR had been pulled from the game, but no explanation was given as to the reason.

    On Twitter, Sports Gamers Online managing director Mike Straw addressed FTR\’s removal, and said that a problem with move set captures and nominations was a factor in AEW\’s decision.

    If so, it is possible that more AEW talent could be pulled from the game, as this isn\’t just a problem exclusive to FTR.

    AEW: Fight Forever

    Last week, fans caught a glimpse of AEW: Fight Forever at the 2022 Gamescon in Cologne, Germany.

    Speaking about the game, Evil Uno and Colt Cabana said that Fight Forever will feature a “deep career mode” which will see players go “on the road” with AEW.

    AEW: Fight Forever also picked up the Best Sports Game award at Gamescon.

    Despite reports of a release this year, no date has been confirmed for when AEW: Fight Forever will hit shelves.

    FTR Reacts To Winning The IWGP Tag Team Championships

  • Sasha Banks & Naomi Expected Back in WWE Any Week Now

    During the May 16, episode of Monday Night Raw, Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of the show over a creative dispute.

    There had been plans for Banks and Naomi, then the WWE Women\’s Tag Champions, to enter feuds for the SmackDown and Raw Women\’s Championships, but losing both feuds.

    The then-Women\’s Tag Team Champions felt this was disrespectful to their titles, and haven\’t been seen on WWE TV since.

    Any Week Now

    While there was a time when it seemed Banks and Naomi were gone from WWE for good, that is no longer the case.

    With Vince McMahon retired, it has been reported that the pair have agreed to return, as their main issues were with the former Chairman.

    On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reports that Banks and Naomi are expected back any week now.

    Bryan Alverez added that both women have been re-added to the internal roster, a huge sign that they\’ve resolved the issues between them and the company.

    Tonight\’s Raw will see new WWE Women\’s Tag Team Champions be crowned after Banks and Naomi were stripped of the gold in May.

    Changes

    Banks and Naomi are expected to be back soon, but they are returning to a much different WWE.

    Reports at the time of the walkout stated that the former champions left their WWE Women\’s Tag Team Titles on the desk of then Head of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis.

    Laurinaitis has since been released from WWE over his alleged role in the alleged misconduct between Vince McMahon and WWE employees.

    In his place, Triple H is serving as Head of Talent Relations, and reportedly has a good relationship with both women.

    Charlotte Flair: “I Can’t Imagine Never Wrestling Sasha Again”

  • Potential Spoiler on Plans for WWE Clash at the Castle Main Event

    For the past two years, Roman Reigns has dominated WWE like never before, holding an iron grip on the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

    Winning the Universal title in August 2020, a week after returning to TV, Reigns unified the title with Brock Lesnar\’s WWE Championship at WrestleMania 38. 

    The list of names who have lost to Reigns is a who\’s-who of WWE, including Lesnar, John Cena, Edge, Finn Balor, Bray Wyatt, and others. 

    The End is Near?

    This Saturday, Reigns will defend the WWE Undisputed Universal Championship at Clash at the Castle against Drew McIntyre. 

    The two faced off one-on-one at Survivor Series 2020, where Reigns got the win, but the result could be much different this time. 

    WrestleVotes reports that for the first time in a long time, there have been discussions about Reigns losing at this weekend\’s event.

    It\’s reported that \”multiple ideas\” have intrigued those who will decide the finish for Reigns Vs. McIntyre, which will headline Clash at the Castle. 

    Today marks Day 729 since Reigns became Universal Champion. 

    McIntyre: Why it makes sense

    While Reigns has been virtually untouchable since turning heel and becoming the Tribal Chief, a McIntyre win makes sense. 

    McIntyre is yet to have a World Championship win in front of a live crowd, with his first coming at the empty-arena WrestleMania 36, and his second in the Thunderdome. 

    McIntyre has also been kept protected in recent years and is arguably the only Superstar active at this time who would make sense as the one to defeat Reigns. 

    With reports of WWE considering more international stadium shows (depending on whether Clash at the Castle is a success) a World Title change this weekend would go a long way in proving stadium shows outside the U.S. are important.

    Drew McIntyre Has Something “Extremely Special” Planned for WWE Clash at the Castle

  • Samoa Joe Expected Back in AEW/ROH Soon

    At Ring of Honor\’s Supercard of Honor XV event this past April, Samoa Joe made his return to the promotion.

    Joe had been released from WWE in January, as part of several cuts to the team running WWE NXT, all of which had either been signed by or worked closely with Triple H.

    His January release marked his second time being cut by WWE, after being released in April 2021.

    Where has he been?

    In addition to his work in ROH, where he is the reigning World Television Champion, Joe also makes appearances for Tony Khan\’s other promotion, AEW.

    Over the past month, Joe has been away filming for the character of \’Sweet Tooth,\’ for the Peacock live-action adaptation of the popular video game Twisted Metal.

    Fans may not be waiting much longer to see Samoa Joe back in the ring, as the show\’s first series has wrapped shooting.

    On Twitter, showrunner Michael Johnathan confirmed that the show has wrapped.

    https://twitter.com/beardymcwhisker/status/1563627366106255360

    Joe is providing the physical performance for his character, while Will Arnett (The Lego Batman Movie, Arrested Development, Bojack Horseman) will be providing the voice.

    His absence from programming has been explained as him recovering from an injury after being attacked by Jay Lethal, Satnam Singh and Sonjay Dutt.

    Joe Outside of the Ring

    The character of Sweet Tooth will be a huge role for Samoa Joe, but that\’s not the only role for him.

    Joe has also provided voice-over work for the character of King Shark, as part of the upcoming game \’Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.\’

    The game, which will include fellow squad members Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, and fan-favorite Harley Quinn, is scheduled for a 2023 release.

    Samoa Joe on AEW & WWE: “I’m Open to Whatever Opportunity”