SEScoops

Author: Thomas Lowson

  • Alexa Bliss Declares \”I Am In Charge\” Amid Wyatt Sicks Speculation

    Alexa Bliss made her return at the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble, and now the Goddess of WWE has shared her big plans. After a two-year absence, Bliss is back, and is ready to take control.

    The February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown included a video segment with Bliss, where she reflected on her time away. She acknowledged that while the faces in WWE may have changed, she remains the same. She also emphasized her experience with the Elimination Chamber, reminding everyone that she’s won the match before. Bliss then promised her opponents in next weekend\’s Women\’s Elimination Chamber match a \”hell they haven’t experienced before.\”

    Bliss ended by declaring that SmackDown’s women’s division belongs to her and that she’s in charge. The segment featured glitchy cuts, similar to what fans have seen from The Wyatt Sicks. Fans have already begun to speculate that Bliss\’ comment about being in charge could be hinting at a major role with Uncle Howdy\’s faction.

    The Wyatt Sicks have seemingly taken an interest in Bliss, with the group interrupting Bliss\’ promo during the Februrary 14, edition of SmackDown. Since the group arrived in WWE, it had been speculated that Bliss would join, and now fans can expect a major role for the former WWE Women\’s Champion going forward.

  • Trish Stratus Appears On SmackDown, Attacked By Nia Jax

    WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus was a part of the February 21, edition of WWE SmackDown, but the Canadian legend was left hurting in New Orleans. On the show, Tiffany Stratton defeated Candice LeRae, but was attacked by Candice and Nia Jax after the match. Though Stratus made the save, Nia and Candice were able to get the upperhand on the WWE Hall of Famer and WWE Women\’s Champion. The segment ended with Jax laying out Stratton and Stratus with an Annihilator.

    Stratus\’ appearance comes ahead of her return to the ring at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025, where she will team with Stratton in tag-team action. The show will take place in Trish\’s home town of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on March 1.

    Stratus\’ most recent match was as part of the 2025 Women\’s Royal Rumble match which was on by Charlotte Flair, Stratton\’s WrestleMania 41 opponent. Whether she competes at Elimination Chamber or not, Stratus remains one of WWE\’s most iconic women, and continues to have the fans on her side.

    Trish Stratus Reveals WWE Debut Tribute At 2025 Royal Rumble

  • Scott Steiner\’s Son Brock Rechsteiner Signs WWE NIL Deal

    WWE has another Steiner to its name as Brock Rechsteiner, the son of Scott Steiner, has reportedly signed a WWE Next-In-Line contract. During an interview with Jim Varsollone, Brandon Rechsteiner shared that his brother Brock has inked a deal with the promotion. Brock was offered a NIL deal in January 2025 and now fans can expect to see much more of the second-generation athlete.

    Brock Rechsteiner is the latest member of his family to ink a contract with WWE. For years, his father Scott and uncle Rick competed for WWE and the duo would become multi-time Tag Team Champions. In more recent times, Brock\’s cousin Bron Breakker has been asserting himself as a two-time NXT Champion and two-time (and current) Intercontinental Champion.

    WWE launched its NIL program in 2021 with Olympian Gable Steveson being the first recruit. While Steveson\’s WWE career would amount to very little, fans are seeing one NIL signing succeed on a weekly basis. Oba Femi was an NIL signing and has since risen the ranks to become WWE NXT Champion.

    It remains to be seen if Brock Rechsteiner reaches the success of Femi or of his family members in WWE. Whatever comes, the young Steiner is ready to make an impact on WWE\’s NIL contract.

  • Matt Riddle Eyeing WWE Return: \”I Never Would Have Left\”

    Matt Riddle hopes to one day be called a WWE Superstar again, but knows that the decision will not be his to make. Speaking on Stories With Brisco and Bradshaw, Riddle made it clear he’d return to WWE in a heartbeat if given the chance.

    \”I would love to go back to WWE one day eventually, maybe soon. But the thing is, whatever they want. It’s not up to me, that’s their decision.\”

    Riddle \”never would have left\” WWE had he been given the chance to stay, and wishes that his exit in September 2023 had never occurred. As he waits for WWE to give him a call, the reigning MLW World Heavyweight Champion has big plans in mind.

    \”I’m going to win every championship possible, I’m going to wrestle everywhere under the sun, in every country.\”

    Riddle had asserted himself as a top act in WWE, even challenging for World Championships on occassion. By 2023 though, a series of controversies, including an altercation at JFK airport, resulted in the \’Original Bro\’ being cut. These releases, which also saw Nic Nemeth and Mustafa Ali cut, were the first following the official launch of TKO Group Holdings.

    Whether Riddle returns to WWE or not, he is focused on establishing himself as a top draw in wrestling, no matter the promotion. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Matt Riddle and his dreams to return to WWE superstardom.

    Matt Riddle Wishes He Could Have Finished The RK Bro Run In WWE

  • Backlash Over WWE SmackDown Cuts as The Rock Returns

    The Rock\’s return on tonight\’s WWE SmackDown will be exciting for fans, but will come at the expense of many on the roster. WrestleVotes reports that WWE has adjusted the line-up to the February 21, SmackDown following the announcement of the Final Boss. There have been \”rumblings\” that a six-man tag-team match, pitting Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman vs. Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga has been cut.

    A match pitting Liv Morgan against Naomi has also reportedly been cut, angering many fans of both women. On X, several fans shared their issue with the two women losing their time to a part-time performer in an already male-dominated program.

    This backlash comes amid a wider conversation about the treatment of women in WWE. Several women in WWE are said to be frustrated with their current positions in the promotion. Some have also pointed out that the introduction of mid-card championships for the women have done little to help. The hashtag #WWEWomenDeserveBetter trended on X, as fans shared their agreement with those in the company who are feeling frustrated.

    The Rock is one of the biggest stars in entertainment, and having him on SmackDown during WrestleMania season has left many excited. With that said, there are plenty of fans who are far from happy with the Final Boss taking the spotlight from full-time talent.

    The Rock Awarded Nearly $14 Million Worth Of TKO Stock

  • Logan Paul: I Have \’Go Away Heat\’ With WWE Fans

    Do WWE fans want to see Logan Paul get his comeuppance in the ring, or do they just not want to see him at all. Paul himself thinks it is the latter. On a recent edition of his ImPaulsive podcast, Paul shared that he believes fans truly would rather see him gone from wrestling above anything else.

    “I think I have go away heat. So, the only reason why it works is because I’m a great wrestler. There’s a handful of the audience that is genuinely like, ‘Get this guy out of here.\’\”

    Go away heat occurs when fans legitimately dislike a wrestler to an extent that they would rather not see them in any role, even if they are getting beaten up. In the early 200s, Sean \’X-Pac\’ Waltman received so much go away heat that many dubbed it \’X-Pac heat.\’

    A more recent example of go away heat is playing out in TNA Wrestling with fans wanting to see Tessa Blanchard gone rather than seeing the heel get beaten up. During the latest iMPACT, fans chanted \”please don\’t wrestle\” at Blanchard when Santino Marella ordered Tessa to wrestle next week or be fired.

    As for Paul, he will be a part of the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match, set for the March 1, PLE in Toronto, Canada. With a WrestleMania 41 oportunity awaiting the victor, fans may soon be seeing much more of Logan Paul, despite his alleged go away heat.

    Logan Paul Banned By Egyptian Government: ‘You Can’t Come’

  • NXT\’s Cora Jade To Challenge For TNA Knockouts Title At Sacrifice

    The NXT-TNA collaboration will see one of the silver brand\’s best and brightest challenge for the Knockouts World Championship at the upcoming Sacrifice event. During the February 20, edition of TNA iMPACT, Tessa Blanchard refused to wrestle her planned opponent for the show, much to the ire of the Orlando crowd. Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich appeared to chastise Blanchard and made quick work out of Tessa\’s would-be opponent.

    Before Slamovich could celebrate for too long, NXT\’s Cora Jade ambushed the reigning Knockouts Champion. Santino Marella, TNA\’s Director of Authority, would then announce that Jade will challenge Slamovich for the gold at Sacrifice on March 14.

    Jade has previously shown interest in winning the TNA Knockouts Title, and will make history if she wins the gold. A victory at Sacrifice will make Jade the first-ever active WWE talent to win a title from TNA Wrestling. In the past, Izzi Dame, Wendy Choo, and Karmen Petrovic have challenged for the gold, but were unsuccessful.

    Jade\’s involvement with Genesis represents the strength of the TNA-WWE partnership, a multi-year deal that has already seen plenty of crossover. Whether Jade makes history at Sacrifice or not remains to be seen, but neither she nor Slamovich will hold back with the title on the line next month.

    Oba Femi Appears On TNA iMPACT, Match Set For Upcoming Show

  • Oba Femi Appears On TNA iMPACT, Match Set For Upcoming Show

    WWE NXT Champion Oba Femi was confronted by TNA X-Division Champion Moose on the February 18, edition of WWE NXT and now The Ruler has returned the favor. During the February 20 episode of TNA iMPACT Wrestling, Oba Femi made a surprise appearance, interrupting Moose to the delight of the live crowd in Orlando\’s Full Sail University.

    Although Femi didn’t get physical, his presence alone made Femi and The System running, leaving Femi to stand side-by-side with The Hardys and JDC. Following the confrontation, Santino Marella made a match for next week: Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers, and Moose will take on the Hardy Boys and Oba Femi.

    Femi and Moose\’s face-to-face on WWE NXT saw the pair vow that a match between the two is coming, with Moose adding that it\’s just a few weeks away. Though no date has been confirmed, speculation is growing among fans that TNA Sacrifice on March 14 could be when this showdown takes place.

    Femi\’s arrival on iMPACT shows that even the top stars of NXT aren\’t afraid to \’cross the line\’ as part of the WWE-TNA partnership. With a six-man tag-team match set for next week\’s iMPACT, and the Hardys heading to NXT next week, fans have plenty to look forward to in this exciting crossover.

  • Cedric Alexander Signs with Paragon Talent Group After WWE Exit

    Cedric Alexander has been cut from WWE but now he is making waves in the world of free agency. It has been confirmed that Alexander has signed with the Paragon Talent Group, signaling his intent to stay active and explore new opportunities.

    Alexander\’s decision to sign with Paragon puts him in the company of top-tier talent who have also signed with the talent agency. Last year, CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, Tiffany Stratton, Liv Morgan, Damian Priest all signed with Paragon, as has Jade Cargill. Paragon, operated by former WWE Superstar Dean \’Mojo Rawley\’ Muhtadi, also played a key role in Alexa Bliss\’ contract negotiations, culminating in her return at the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble Premium Live Event.

    Cedric Alexander: All Elite?

    While Alexander is ready to be represented in non-wrestling projects, his in-ring future could see him join AEW. Tony Khan\’s first promotion is already home to the Hurt Syndicate, comprising of Alexander\’s former allies Bobby Lashley, Shelton Benjamin, and MVP. Alexander himself has teased joining the group, leaving fans excited to see the high-flyer reunite with his peers.

    Whatever comes next for Cedric Alexander, it is clear he\’s just getting started. After many years with WWE, fans are excited to see what he can do, both in and out of the ring, now his days as a Superstar are in the past.

  • Dijak Wrestling Academy: Ex-WWE Star Teaching Online Course

    Would-be wrestlers will have the opportunity to learn from industry veteran Donovan Dijak as part of the ex-WWE Superstar\’s new online wrestling academy. Speaking to The A2theK Wrestling Show, Dijak shared that the online courses will help aspiring wrestlers learn a vital side of the business outside of the ring.

    \”There\’s a huge part of professional wrestling that\’s mental and learning and applying concepts and psychology and even about the physicality. We can talk about the physicality and some of the pitfalls and things that I see.\”

    Dijak aims for his online courses to be an \”introduction to professional wrestling\” but acknowledged that it should not be a trainee\’s only guide to the ring. Instead, Dijak hopes for his courses to be used in parallel to physical wrestling training to help craft an all-round talent.

    When asked what he\’ll be looking for in talent as part of the Dijak Wrestling Academy, the former WWE star had one word in mind: effort.

    \”I don\’t need you to be the greatest wrestler in the world. I don\’t need you to be the most charismatic person in the world. I need nothing besides 100% effort.\”

    Those willing to make the effort can learn more about the Dijak Wrestling Academy at the official website, including the full eight-week program that covers match basics and in-ring psycholgy. While Dijak\’s career in the ring is far from over, the former WWE Superstar is ready to feast his eyes on the potential stars of the future.

    Donovan Dijak Reflects on WWE Release: “It’s a Business Decision”

  • Donovan Dijak Reflects on WWE Release: \”It\’s a Business Decision\”

    Donovan Dijak was disappointed to be released from WWE in 2024, but isn\’t going to hold too big of a grudge over what was ultimately a business decision. Speaking to The A2TheK Wrestling Show, Dijak reflected on his abrupt exit in June of last year.

    \”At the end of the day it\’s a business decision, right? Of course I wanted to say. I made that very clear in in the the letter that I wrote and things like that.\”

    While Dijak\’s days as a WWE Superstar are a thing of the past, his time with the company continues to prove beneficial. Not only did Dijak\’s name in wrestling circles grow considerably thanks to his WWE run, but his time as a Superstar allowed for immense growth as a character.

    \”There was a ton of things that happen in WWE that are helping me to this day, right? Whether it be the the the picture of me in the jacket and the glasses with that character… all of that wouldn\’t exist without the opportunity that I was given.\”

    Since his WWE exit, Dijak has wasted no time in re-establishing himself outside the Sports Entertainment juggernaut. With matches for Rev Pro, Beyond, House of Glory, MLW, Limitless, DPW, and more, Dijak is ready to prove his value in the ring, but will never forget how WWE helped him, and continues to help him to this day.

  • How 3MB Paved the Way for Raj Dhesi\’s WWE Title Glory

    At Monopoly Events\’ For The Love of Wrestling, Raj Dhesi spoke about his WWE run as Jinder Mahal and how his role in 3MB led to his unlikely WWE Championship victory. Dhesi shared that when he first heard about Heath Slater getting a band, he speculated who\’d be cast. While he saw names like Johnny \’Fandango\’ Curtis and Jon Moxley as potential band members, the idea was not for him.

    \”I jokingly said watch all be in the band complete joke and lo and behold I found out that I was going to be a member of the band.\”

    Dhesi was distraught at the idea of being part of the comedy group, equating the idea to \”career s*icide.\” After this initial shock, however, Dhesi decided to embrace the role, for better and worse.

    \”You just have to embrace it and we actually embraced it too much where we thought we were legit rock stars which led to the downfall.\”

    The downfall in question saw Dhesi released in 2014, a setback that forced the wrestler to re-evaluate his life. After focusing himself on getting in better shape, Dhesi was rehired in 2016 and became WWE Champion the following year.

    \”Without 3MB, there would be no Maharaja, there would be no WWE Champion.\”

    Dhesi\’s story highlights the importance of wrestlers embracing what they are given as even the most unlikely characters can rise up to become World Champion. With all three members of the band seeing success after the group\’s split, Dhesi\’s unlikely journey to the WWE Champion is a story that should inspire wrestlers on all rungs of the proverbial ladder.

    Raj Dhesi On Future Wrestling Contract: “Everything Would Have To Be Right”

  • JBL Praises Jacob Fatu, Wants To Work With \”Unbelievable\” WWE Star

    Jacob Fatu has caught the attention of many since his arrival in WWE in 2024, and John \’Bradshaw\’ Layfield would love the chance to work with him. Speaking to Monopoly Events at For The Love of Wrestling 2025, the WWE Hall of Famer shared his amazement at Fatu\’s work.

    \”Jacob Fatu to me is, just that kid is, a kid, I\’m almost 60 so everybody\’s a kid to me. [Fatu] is unbelievable. He\’s unreal, how good he is. I\’d love to work with Jacob Fatu.\”

    Fatu isn\’t the only member of the extended Bloodline that has caught the eye of the former WWE Champion. In the interview, JBL also praised the rise of Jey Uso and shared that he hopes Jey becomes World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 41. JBL has \”loved him and his brother since they came in\” and will no-doubt be YEETing along with countless others should Jey dethrone GUNTHER this April.

    As for Fatu, his WrestleMania debut could see a showdown with Solo Sikoa in a match that could prove to be another pivotal turning point for the Bloodline. Time will tell whether JBL ever gets to work with Fatu, but with such a bright future, anything seems possible for the Samoan Werewolf.

  • Jacqueline Calls Out Charlotte Flair For WWE Retirement Match

    WWE Hall of Famer Jacqueline is ready to get back in the ring one more time and has set her sights on WWE\’s \’Queen\’ Charlotte Flair. Appearing at Monopoly Events\’ For The Love of Wrestling, Jacqueline made her case to WWE\’s most decorated female Superstar of all time.

    \”Charlotte, please give me my retirement match! Please give me my [retirement match.] Please bring it! I\’m begging you, I\’m begging you!\”

    Jacqueline, a former WWE Women\’s and Cruiserweight Champion, last competed as part of the inaugural Women\’s Royal Rumble in 2018. The 21st entry in the match, Jacqueline lasted 1:52 and scored no eliminations before being eliminated by Nia Jax.

    As for Flair, her return from a career-threatening injury has seen her once again thrust into the main event, a source of contention among fans believing she has hogged the spotlight. After becoming the first-ever two-time Women\’s Royal Rumble winner, Flair, a 14-time Women\’s Champion, will challenge reigning Women\’s Champion Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania 41.

    Whether Jacqueline gets her retirement match with Flair or not, the WWE Hall of Famer forged a legacy in wrestling as a trailblazer, including being the first African American woman to win gold in WWE. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Jacqueline, and whether a showdown with Flair is in her future.

  • Big E Talks Current WWE Role: \”I Get To Be A Fan Again\”

    After suffering a broken neck in 2022, Big E has remained a part of WWE\’s product by serving as a correspondent on pre-shows and post-shows for Premium Live Events. Speaking to Kevin Iole, the former WWE Champion was able to focus on the positive side of things despite his injury.

    \”The cool thing now for me in this role is I do the pre-shows and post shows for all the PLEs… I get to be a fan again. I get to cover the card and I have a lot of fun with that. So I really enjoy it.\”

    Like many fans as well as those in WWE, Big E is looking ahead to WrestleMania 41, set to take place this April in Las Vegas. Big E shared that he\’s \”really excited\” about the upcoming two-night mega-show, and discussed The Rock\’s potential involvement.

    \”The Rock was heavily involved last year at WrestleMania. We\’ll see if he\’s involved at all [this year.]\”

    Rock or no Rock, WrestleMania 41 is shaping up to be another huge event with two title matches confirmed, and two more set to be finalized at Elimination Chamber on March 1 (which will also mark Big E\’s 39th birthday.) Whatever comes this April, Big E will have a blast covering the event, both as a member of WWE\’s on-screen team, and also as a diehard fan of pro wrestling.

    Big E’s Message on Overcoming Adversity: “We Need Each Other”

  • AEW TBS Title Match Teased For Revolution Pay-Per-View

    Mercedes Moné retained her AEW TBS Title at Grand Slam: Australia against Harley Cameron and now the CEO has her next challenger lined up. During Wednesday’s Dynamite, Moné was being interviewed by Renee Paquette when a video aired featuring Stardom star Momo Watanabe issuing a challenge for the TBS Championship at next month’s Revolution pay-per-view in Los Angeles, California.

    Watanabe was in attendance at Grand Slam: Australia and was shown at ringside during Moné’s successful title defense. After the CEO\’s victory in Brisbane, Moné gloated in front of Watanabe, teasing a future showdown. On Dynamite, Moné wasn’t pleased with the surprise challenge, stating that if Watanabe wants an answer, she needs to show up on Dynamite.

    If the match takes place, it won\’t be the first time these two have faced off. Last August at Capital Collision, Moné successfully defended her NJPW Strong Women’s Championship against Watanabe. Mone still holds the title as one of the many championships in her possession.

    AEW Revolution 2025 is set for March 9th, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This will be the sixth annual Revolution event and AEW’s first at the Crypto.com Arena.

    Latest AEW Revolution 2025 Card

    • AEW World Championship: Jon Moxley (c) vs. Cope (Adam Copeland)
    • MJF vs. “Hangman” Adam Page
    • AEW International Championship: Konosuke Takeshita (c) (with Don Callis) vs. Kenny Omega
    • Will Ospreay vs. Kyle Fletcher – Steel Cage Match

  • WWE 2K25: 15 Bloodline Showcase Matches Revealed

    WWE 2K25\’s Showcase Mode will focus on The Bloodline and the legendary Anoa\’i family, one of wrestling\’s greatest dynasties. Now, fans have learned what matches they can look forward to as part of the Bloodline Showcase in three exciting modes:

    Relive History:

    • Yokozuna w/ Mr. Fuji vs. Hulk Hogan – King of the Ring ‘93;
    • Rocky Maivia vs. Hunter Hearst Helmsley – RAW February 13, 1997;
    • Nia Jax vs. Lyra Valkyria – Queen of the Ring ‘24;
    • The Usos vs. The New Day w/ Big E – Hell in a Cell ‘17;
    • Solo Sikoa vs. Carmelo Hayes w/ Trick Williams – NXT September 13, 2022.

    Change History:

    • The Headshrinkers (Samu and Fatu) vs. The Steiner Bros – WrestleMania IX;
    • Rikishi vs. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin – No Mercy 2000;
    • Umaga w/ Armando Estrada vs. John Cena – New Year’s Revolution 2007;
    • Tamina vs. Natalya vs. Carmella vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch – Money in the Bank ‘17;
    • Naomi vs. Bayley – Super ShowDown ‘20;
    • Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins – Royal Rumble ‘22.

    Create History:

    • “High Chief” Peter Miavia vs. George “The Animal” Steele;
    • The Wild Samoans (Afa and Sika) vs. The Dudley Boyz;
    • The OG Bloodline vs. New Bloodline in WarGames;
    • The Islanders (Haku and Tama) vs. The Street Profits;
    • And more!
    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"
    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"
    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"
    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"

    WWE 2K25 is set to release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game set to release one week early for eager gamers. With a roster of over 300 playable characters, this year\’s game will be the literal biggest WWE game of all time, and one that will feature plenty from The Bloodline.

    WWE 2K25: Which Active Superstars Are Missing From The Game?

  • From Diva To The DA\’s Office: WWE\’s Debra Shares Surprising Journey

    Former WWE manager Debra may have spent years helping heels but now her life is dedicated to putting the bad guys of real-life behind bars. Appearing at Monopoly Events\’ For The Love of Wresting, Debra shared the unlikely path her life took after leaving wrestling.

    \”I ended up going to University of Alabama and I received a Bachelor [degree] and then I received a master of science in criminal justice. [Applause] From the University of Alabama, now I currently work for the District Attorney\’s Office in New Orleans Louisiana so it\’s been an interesting journey from wrestling to what I do now.\”

    Though Debra\’s days in the wrestling inustry are in the past, the former WWE Women\’s Champion had fond memories of her time. When asked by SoCal Val, Debra recalled being \’Queen Deborah\’ in WCW and working with Mick Foley as highlights of her career.

    Debra also talked about the \’puppies,\’ the of-the-time description of her breasts that was brought up regularly on TV. While WWE\’s stance of the sexualization of women has changed over the past decade or so, Debra simply chalked up her work with the puppies as \”it was the Attitude Era.\”

    Today, the puppies are no longer a factor in Debra\’s working life, but the legacy she built with fans continues to last to this day. Any would-be ne\’erdowells should be wary of breaking the law in New Orleans, or find themselves face-to-face with the former WWE Women\’s Champion.

    Nation Of Domination Reunite At ‘For The Love Of Wrestling’ UK Convention

  • Ricky Saints Reveals Backstage Issues That Pushed Him Out of AEW

    Ricky Saints, the Absolute superstar formerly known as Ricky Starks, has opened up about his exit from All Elite Wrestling, a departure that came close to a year after his final match. Appearing on the Busted Open Radio podcast, Starks teased what led to his departure from the All-Elite promotion.

    \”There are some people who stuck their nose in my creative business that shouldn’t have happened. Veterans.\”

    Saints stopped short of naming these veterans, but was ready to discuss the matter further with them. The former AEW World Tag Team Champion shared that \”if they got a problem with me, they got my number\” and dared anyone with an issue to \”text me about it.\”

    Ricky Saints Opens Up About WWE Name Change, NXT Debut

    The departure of Ricky Saints in early 2025 came after the former World Tag Team Champion hadn\’t been used since March 2024. Though Saints had been dealing early into his hiatus, he was cleared to wrestle for much of this break. In November 2024, Saints shared that he had theories behind his absence, but had not been told anything from management.

    Saints has since left AEW and wasted no time in joining WWE NXT, where he will compete as Ricky Saints. While the Absolute One is ready to focus on his WWE future, including his upcoming debut match, there\’s still bad blood between Saints and these unnamed veterans.

  • Ricky Saints Opens Up About WWE Name Change, NXT Debut

    On the February 18, edition of WWE NXT, Ricky Starks signed a contract with the silver brand, where it was confirmed that his new name will be Ricky Saints. On Busted Open Radio, Saints addressed the name change, which he said is \”as close as you\’re going to get to Starks.\”

    \”I like the name. I know a lot of people are going to be… It\’s going to take time for them to get used to it.\”

    The Saints name holds significant meaning to the former AEW World Tag Team Champion, who is from New Orleans and \”I want to pay respect that that as well. Saints also reassured fans that, despite the new name, his persona remains unchanged.

    \”The person doesn\’t change. I\’m still that guy, so it is what it is.\”

    Saints debuted in WWE NXT during the February 11, broadcast, though his name was not uttered by the commentators or the wrestler himself. This, alongside WWE avoiding mentioning him by name on social media, led fans to speculate that a change was coming.

    Looking ahead, Ricky Saints is set to make his in-ring debut on the upcoming episode of NXT in Cincinnati, Ohio. In his debut match, he will team up with Je\’Von Evans to face the duo of Wes Lee and Ethan Page, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in his wrestling career.

  • Jake Roberts Was Excited To See Bray Wyatt\’s WWE Future: \”What A Loss\”

    The wrestling world tragically lost Windham \’Bray Wyatt\’ Rotunda in August 2023, who died at the young age of 36 years old. Speaking at Monopoly Events\’ For The Love of Wrestling convention in the UK, Jake Roberts, who many saw a lot of in the Bray Wyatt character, reflected on Rotunda\’s passing.

    \”What a loss, just an incredible loss. I loved it, I loved everything that he did. I couldn\’t wait to see what he was going to do next. God man, that one hurt. That one hurts.\”

    Roberts\’ comments echo the feelings of many in the wrestling world. After Rotunda\’s passing, WWE and promotions Rotunda had never worked for paid tribute to the former World Champion. WWE would also share that proceeds from Bray Wyatt merch would go to support his widow JoJo Offerman and Windham\’s four children.

    Though Rotunda is no longer with us, the late wrestler’s creative influence remains a significant presence on WWE programming. In 2024, WWE introduced the Wyatt Sicks, a macabre faction led by Uncle Howdy, whose character has clear ties to the three-time World Champion. Uncle Howdy is portrayed by Bo Dallas, with every idea for the group being from the mind of his late brother.

    As we approach the two-year anniversary of his passing, the Bray Wyatt character remains in the hearts of fans and Hall of Famers alike. Though fans will never have the chance to see him compete, the legacy left by Windham Rotunda can never be taken away.

    Bray Wyatt Speaks on The Undertaker’s Influence in Archival Footage

  • Shawn Michaels Has \”One Or Two Matches\” Left In Him

    Shawn Michaels last competed in the ring in 2018, but the Head of NXT has a couple of matches left in him, according to TNA Wrestling\’s JDC. Speaking at Monopoly Events\’ For the Love of Wrestling convention in the UK, JDC (formerly Fandango) shared that Michaels told him he has \”one or two matches left\” in him.\” Though JDC doubts he\’ll ever get the chance to face the two-time WWE Hall of Famer, he would love the opportunity.

    \”He’s the reason why I got into the business. So honestly, it’d probably never happen, but that would be my dream match.\”

    Michaels\’ in-ring career took an extended break in 1998 due to a severe back injury and issues with substance abuses. After healing up and finding his faith, Michaels returned to action in 2002 and would remain an active talent until 2010.

    Michaels\’ final match came in 2018 when he and Triple H defeated the Brothers of Destruction at that year\’s Crown Jewel. Many at the time were disappointed with the bout, not only for the four men under-delivering in the ring, but for Michaels \’spoiling\’ what had been a perfect career sendoff against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26.

    The Showstopper was part of the recent WWE Saturday Night\’s Main Event, where he showed he can still rile up a crowd and hit Sweet Chin Music (a lesson Kevin Owens\’ learned firsthand.) Whether Michaels ever competes again or not, the possibility is out there, according to JDC.

    Kevin Owens Says He Has Tried To Bring Shawn Michaels Out Of Retirement

  • Moose Says Match With Oba Femi Will Come In A Few Weeks

    On the February 18, edition of WWE NXT, TNA\’s X-Division Champion Moose made his stunning arrival, confronting NXT Champion Oba Femi. In an NXT Digitial Exclusive, Moose shared his excitement after finally making his presence felt in WWE.

    \”It’s been awesome. Great, great feeling. It’s been a long time coming, and I’m happy I’m finally here.\”

    During NXT, Femi and Moose agreed that a match between the two must happen. In the interview, Moose shared that he\’s had his eyes on Femi for \”a very long time\” and doesn\’t plan on waiting much longer to face The Ruler.

    \”In a few weeks, I feel like we will lock horns and we will see who the better man is.\”

    Before Moose locks horns with Femi, he will put the X-Division Championship on the line during next week\’s WWE NXT against Lexis King. Moose won\’t be the only notable TNA name on the show, as Matt and Jeff Hardy, the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champions, will take on the No Quarter Catch Crew during the February 25, show in Cincinnati, Ohio.

    Moose has spent years as one of TNA\’s leading names and now fans will get to see what he\’s capable of against some of the top stars of WWE NXT. With the partnership between WWE and TNA set to last for years, fans can expect plenty more huge crossover moments like we saw this week.

    Oba Femi Teases ‘Invasion’ of TNA After Moose Confrontation

  • Oba Femi Teases \’Invasion\’ of TNA After Moose Confrontation

    Could WWE NXT Champion Oba Femi be the next to \’cross the line\’ and show up in TNA Wrestling? Don\’t count it out according to the Ruler. After being confronted by TNA X-Division Champion Moose on the February 18, episode of WWE NXT, Femi teased showing up in TNA.

    \”Moose invaded my territory tonight. I think it\’s time I invaded his.\”

    WWE NXT opened with an angry Femi addressing the attack on him by four masked men after his succesful title defense at NXT Judgment Day. Femi said that the four made a fatal error in that they didn\’t finish the job. Though Femi demanded that the four men come out to the ring, he was confronted by Moose instead.

    Though a match has been yet to be made between the two champion behemoths, it appears a showdown is inevitable. Fans can look forward to seeing two of the very best on their respective brands locking horns as the WWE-TNA partnership continues to prove to be stronger than ever.

  • WWE 2K25: Which Active Superstars Are Missing From The Game?

    WWE 2K25 will boast the largest roster in a WWE video game in history with over 300 playable characters as well as managers and other personalities. While the game will indeed be bigger than ever, not everyone competing for the promotion has made it into WWE 2K25.

    Just three Superstars from WWE\’s main roster will not be included in WWE 2K25 when the game hits shelves next month. The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) will not be playable at launch. The former WWE Tag Team Champions joined the promotion in late 2024 and have been an intrinsic part of the SmackDown tag team roster ever since.

    Penta is the third Superstar who won\’t be a part of WWE 2K25 at launch. After a messy exit from AEW, the former Trios and Tag Team Champion arrived in WWE during the January 13, 2025, edition of WWE Raw. Since then, the masked star has quickly grown popular with the WWE Universe and was the Iron-Man in the 2025 Men\’s Royal Rumble match after lasting over 42 minutes.

    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/02/\"

    H/T to @SmackTalks for uncovering this stat. Stay tuned to SEScoops for more interesting wrestling facts and statistics.

    The exclusion of these three Superstar isn\’t about their talent, but rather that the three only arrived recently in WWE, well during the creation of WWE 2K25. Many have predicted that Penta and the Guns will be a part of upcoming DLC for the game.

    WWE 2K25 is set to release on March 14, with the Deadman and Bloodline Editions of the game set to release one week early for eager gamers. While Penta and the Guns won\’t be available at the start, fans shouldn\’t be surprised to see the trio added as fully-fledged playable creations down the line.

    Shane McMahon Not In WWE 2K25, Ending Decade-Long Streak