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Tag: DDP

  • Randy Orton Confesses He Lied About DDP, Recalls WrestleMania With Stone Cold

    Multi-time WWE World Champion Randy Orton recently spent part of his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show doing something he rarely does: telling stories that don\’t exactly flatter the legend.

    From a long-denied phone call to Diamond Dallas Page to forgetting how to hear at WrestleMania, the Pat McAfee interview brought out Orton at his most candid and self-aware.

    The DDP Confession — Years in the Making

    For years, Orton publicly denied a story DDP had been telling: that a young Randy called him to ask permission before adopting the Diamond Cutter — rebranded as the RKO — as his finish. Orton finally set the record straight.

    \”There\’s a story that goes way back where DDP did an interview and said that I had given him a call and asked him if I could use the Diamond Cutter as a finish,\” Orton said. \”I called him out and said, \’It\’s a lie. I never called him.\’ Sorry. I totally did. I thought I might have been dreaming it, but no.\”

    He attributed the initial denial to being \”a little rough around the edges\” in his early 20s — not fully remembering a conversation he apparently had.

    Receiving the Stunner — A Lifelong Dream

    McAfee told a WrestleMania story of his own: Steve Austin called him up to the ring at AT&T Stadium in Texas,.

    \”We\’re out there. Steve Austin says, \’Come up here.\’ It\’s all getting called on the fly,\” Orton recalled. \”And he starts talking — I can\’t hear him. Gravelly voice. He said [to take a] beer, and I watched the video back. He points to both things. I couldn\’t hear a word he was saying and I was like, okay, I\’ve done it before. We\’re doing beers. Thank God I was a fan and knew what the hell he was talking about.\”

    As a lifelong wrestling fan, the moment carried a weight that went well beyond the performance.

    \”When you receive a stunner — like as a wrestling mark and as somebody that\’s watched the entire thing — it\’s like this is the greatest thing that could ever happen to me in my entire life,\” he said. \”I\’ve been thinking of how I would take a stunner for 20, 30 years. So it\’s like, immediately — we\’ve been planning.\”

    Five Kids, a Gaming Habit, and a Lucky Man

    Away from the ring, Randy Orton described a domestic life he clearly cherishes. He has five children, stays out of celebrity culture by design, and has a gaming habit his wife has long since made peace with.

    \”My poor wife. I\’m like, \’Hey honey, Brooklyn\’s in bed, I\’m going to go down to the media room.\’ She\’s like, \’See you in 3 hours,\’\” he said.

    He\’s currently working through Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, having previously put time into Elden Ring.

    The bigger picture, though, is one of genuine appreciation:

    \”My wife is absolutely amazing, man. And I\’ve got five amazing kids. I feel I got to pinch myself every morning when I wake up. I am like the luckiest guy in the world.\”

    Orton competes in the Men\’s Elimination Chamber match this Saturday, February 28th at the United Center in Chicago, live at 7 PM ET on the ESPN App.

  • DDP Says Jake Roberts Movie Is In The Works, Shares Struggles

    Jake \’The Snake\’ Roberts has led a captivating life, one full of highs and lows, both personally and professionally. Now, a movie about the WWE Hall of Famer\’s life is in the works, but getting the production finished is proving easier said than done.

    Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page shared that writers have tried to turn Jake\’s story into a screenplay. Despite their best efforts, none have been able to capture Roberts\’ story and DDP\’s connection to his friend.

    \”We’ve had a couple of guys come in and try to write it… The writing was great, really great, but it didn’t quite capture what they wanted it to be.\”

    Roberts was the subject of The Resurrection of Jake the Snake, a 2015 documentary chronicling his battles with substances and the help he\’s received from DDP. Speaking to Helwani, DDP acknowledged that getting a feature film project off the ground is easier said than done.

    \”It\’s been going on for years. I don\’t really talk about it because… You know how hard it is to get something made, bro.\”

    Wrestling biopics have proven popular, including the critically acclaimed The Iron Claw from A24 that detailed the lives and tragedies of the Von Erich family. Mildred Burke\’s life was the subject of Queen of The Ring, chronicling the life and career of one of pro-wrestling\’s most influential women.

    Whether this project ever sees the silver screen, time will tell. Nevertheless, Jake\’s story of struggle and redemption shows the determination of the beloved WWE Hall of Famer.

  • DDP Undergoes Heart Procedure After Health Scare

    WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page has shared a health update with his fans, revealing that he recently underwent a cardioversion medical procedure after going into Atrial fibrillation (AFib).

    In a post on social media, the 69-year-old legend detailed the recent health scare, which he said occurred while he was working out without his heart monitor.

    \”Last week, I went into AFib. I normally wear a heart monitor when training, but for some reason didn’t this day. I pushed myself too hard, felt ‘off’, dizzy, and heart racing… and well, here we are…\” Page wrote. He then shared a photo of himself stretching minutes after waking up from the successful procedure, adding that his wife, Payge McMahon, was asking him to rest.

    AFib is a condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly and rapidly. A cardioversion is a medical procedure used to restore a normal heart rhythm.

    Page explained that this is the second time in three years he has dealt with the condition. \”I’ll have a cardio ablation next month and should be good to go,\” he added.

    He also used the experience to offer a warning to his followers. \”I will never not wear a heart monitor and/or @Apple watch when working out again… If you are over 50 and or have a slightly enlarged heart, you should wear a heart monitor too!\”

  • D-Von Dudley Reveals 85-Pound Weight Loss Saved His Wrestling Career

    Wrestling legend D-Von Dudley has opened up about his incredible health transformation that not only saved his career but potentially his life, losing over 85 pounds and regaining his ability to walk properly after career-threatening back surgery complications.

    The WWE Hall of Famer revealed he had ballooned to nearly 300 pounds following his L4, L5, and S1 spinal fusion surgery, leaving him barely able to walk.

    \”I was almost 300 lb. And basically what happened was I had an issue even after the back surgery where everything was tight. I couldn\’t walk barely.

    I was walking with a limp like some of the old-timers used to see who never really took care of their bodies and they paid for it in the end,\” D-Von explained during his recent appearance on Chris Van Vliet\’s Insight.

    The turning point came when someone suggested he contact Diamond Dallas Page, the former WCW star who has helped numerous wrestlers overcome health challenges through his DDP Yoga program.

    \”I called him and I said, \’Dallas, I\’m in trouble.\’ I said, \’My back the back surgery was supposed to make me walk straight, make me do things, and it just it\’s not doing it.\’ And he was like, \’Devon, I\’m going to send you something. I want you to not I\’m going to send you to DDP Yoga.\’\”

    The transformation was remarkable and swift. \”DDPY has been one of the greatest things I had ever done. It got to the point where even after the first two to three weeks I was able to walk. The scar tissue in the body had loosened up everything,\” D-Von said, explaining how the yoga helped break down layers of scar tissue that had built up after his surgery.

    Beyond the physical therapy, D-Von also made dramatic dietary changes after watching documentaries about food production. He eliminated wheat, dairy products, and fried foods while focusing on organic and grass-fed options. The combination of DDP Yoga and clean eating resulted in his 85-pound weight loss.

    The health transformation proved pivotal when Bubba Ray called about reuniting for TNA\’s 1000th episode of Impact.

    \”It was where I came from, the back surgery, the stroke, and to be able to come back and to be able to do that was just man, it was incredible. And I thank God… If it wasn\’t for the grace of God giving me the opportunity to do DDPY, I wouldn\’t be there.\”

    Now in the best shape he\’s been in years, D-Von operates a successful wrestling school in Winter Park, Florida, where he still takes bumps with students. His transformation serves as inspiration for anyone facing similar health challenges, proving that with the right approach and dedication, it\’s possible to reclaim your physical well-being even after serious setbacks.

  • DDP Thinks WWE Star Will Be Future \’Babyface Of The Company\’

    WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) believes current Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio is destined for a massive babyface run, potentially becoming the \”biggest babyface\” in WWE. Speaking with CasinoBeats, the WCW legend gave high praise for the young star\’s development and connection with the audience.

    DDP pointed out the positive reactions Dominik often receives despite his heel persona during recent appearances, including at WrestleMania 41.

    \”It was interesting because he\’s the biggest heel, and yet at that last WrestleMania, boy you swear to God he was the biggest babyface of the company,\” DDP stated.

    He advised Dominik to maintain his current character for now.

    \”The kid\’s going to be a hell of a babyface when he makes that flip,\” DDP stated. \”Hold onto that heel thing as long as you can, because when he flips, I\’ll tell you what that\’s a kid I\’m a big fan of.\”

    DDP also praised Dominik\’s journey and work ethic.

    \”I am personally a big fan of how hard he\’s worked to get to this spot,\” he said, recalling Dominik\’s early days. \”I don\’t know many young kids who could have come in the way he did with his dad, not really know how to work at all, and has turned himself [around]… that kid, he has got it all and some.\”

  • D-Von Dudley Credits DDP Yoga For Dramatic Weight Loss

    D-Von Dudley is feeling better than ever thanks to the work of DDP Yoga. In a moment with \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page at WrestleCon, D-Von shared that he\’s lost 85lbs and that he \”looks and feels great.\” D-Von added that his body feels \”phenomenal\” and wants everyone to know the wonders of Page\’s program.

    \”DDP Yoga was the best thing that ever happened to me. I go on Busted Open [Radio,] I go on my podcast and preach about it.\”

    Fans can add D-Von Dudley to the growing list of wrestling legends helped by Page and DDP Yoga. Page has worked closely with several troubled indivudals, including Jake \’The Snake\’ Roberts, the late Scott Hall and Lex Luger, the latter of whom recently became a WWE Hall of Famer. Wrestling stars who have felt the effects of DDP Yoga include Mick Foley, Chris Jericho, and Shawn Michaels.

    DDP\’s success in the wrestling world has been matched by his giving nature as the WCW icon continues to help others to this day. Now, D-Von can look forward to many more years of healthy living thanks to Page and his efforts.

  • DDP Recalls the Day Lex Luger Was Paralyzed: \’I Thought He Had a Heart Attack\’

    When wrestling legend Lex Luger collapsed in a San Francisco hotel room in 2007, Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) was one of the first people on the scene—and his emotional recollection of that day is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change.

    “I ran through the door… and he’s sitting there like this in the chair. Cleaned up,” DDP recounted during a recent conversation with Eric Bischoff and Luger himself. “I give him a hug and didn’t even notice he didn’t move. It wasn’t even in my brain.”

    Initially, those around Luger believed he was having a heart attack.

    “The promoter calls me and says, ‘DDP, I just heard Lex had a heart attack—they had to break down his door.’” But the reality was more devastating: Luger had suffered a spinal cord injury that would leave him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down.

    The journey that followed was anything but typical. The EMTs transporting Luger were wrestling fans and made a bold decision to bypass local hospitals to take him to Stanford—a world-class facility 45 minutes away.

    “We might get fired,” one EMT said. “Let’s do it,” the other replied. Luger was then treated by nurses with symbolic names like Faith and Hope. “When I got to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, they put me in room 3:16,” Luger said. “I was like, ‘What are the odds of that?’”

    Faced with the prognosis of lifelong paralysis, Luger leaned into his newfound faith.

    “Either bring me home or teach me how,” he prayed. “I knew that whatever happened, God had me in his hand.”

    For DDP, it was a full-circle moment—seeing a man transformed not just physically, but spiritually.

    “He’s a different person,” DDP said. “God gave Lex a new purpose.”

    Though once told he\’d need 24/7 care forever, Luger has since regained partial movement and a renewed sense of mission, crediting the inspiration he found in others DDP had helped, like Jake \”The Snake\” Roberts and Butterbean.

    “I still have a purpose,” Luger said. “I can be a light for others.”

    Lex Luger: WWE Hall of Famer

    Lex Luger\’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame later this month is a fitting culmination of a life and career defined by resilience, transformation, and inspiration.

    From his days as \”The Total Package\” dominating the wrestling world to his personal battles and physical challenges, Luger\’s journey has been inspirational.

    His ability to overcome adversity, including a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed, and his embrace of faith and purpose have made him a beacon of hope for many.

    This honor not only celebrates his in-ring accomplishments—such as his iconic bodyslam of Yokozuna and being a co-winner of the 1994 Royal Rumble—but also recognizes the man he has become outside the ring. Luger\’s gratitude, humility, and dedication to helping others serve as a testament to his enduring legacy.

    As he takes his place among wrestling\’s greatest at the Hall of Fame ceremony in Las Vegas, it is clear that Lex Luger\’s story is one of redemption, perseverance, and triumph—a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

  • DDP Offers To Help Child Actor Michael \’Donkeylips\’ Bower

    Former child actor Michael Bower is battling serious health issues which have led to serious distress and mobility issues. Recently, Bower expressed interest in DDP Yoga but said he was unable to affordthe program from the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion.

    On X, the DDP Yoga account reached out. The account asked for Bower to get in touch, citing that there are workouts that\’d be perfect for him.

    Bower is best known for his role as Eddie \”Donkeylips\” Gelfen on the television program Salute Your Shorts. He also appeared in The Woner Years as well as Doogie Howser, M.D.

    DDP Yoga has been changing lives for years and played a key role in helping save the lives of Jake \’The Snake\’ Roberts and the late Scott Hall. Hopefully Bower can be the latest name to change their life with the help of \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page and we wish him the best on his journey.

  • Lex Luger Names Two Legends He Wants At His Hall of Fame Induction

    Lex Luger has revealed the two names he would like to join him at the WWE Hall of Fame.

    The former WCW Champion has recently been training with DDP to regain his mobility following his spinal cord injury. He was visited by Cody Rhodes in the facility and the Undisputed WWE Champion broke the news of his Hall of Fame induction to the wrestling legend.

    Luger joined Eric Bischoff for an interview on his podcast after this announcement. During the interview, Lex revealed that he is trying to get both DDP and Sting to appear alongside him at the upcoming event:

    \”If I could have my two guys up there with me, man, DDP on my shoulder kind of spotting me and Sting on the other, if it’s possible. I go, man, that would be amazing. So we shall see. If I have anything to say about that, that would be my pick.\”

    Sting signed a Legends deal with AEW following his retirement at Revolution 2024. Lex Luger who is under a similar WWE deal was allowed to attend the AEW PPV by the company but he was not allowed to appear on camera. So bringing the Icon in for a TV appearance will be harder.

    Lex Luger will join the WWE creative head Triple H and veteran female star Michelle McCool in the 2025 class. You can check out the details of this year\’s ceremony here.

  • Lex Luger Opens Up About Working With DDP

    Lex Luger has opened up about working with DDP.

    The wrestling veteran recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet. He talked about things such as the passing of miss Elizabeth, his relationship with Eric Bischoff, making his debut on the very first WCW Nitro and more.

    During the interview, Luger went into depth describing his health issues and revealed the moment he finally asked for DDP\’s help. The former World Champion discussed being present for Sting\’s retirement match at Revolution 2024 in Greensboro, North Carolina:

    \”I saw DDP back at Sting’s retirement match that we both were able to go to, which was awesome. I just said, ‘Hey, D. You think we could do maybe a little bit of work on getting a little more movement? I’m pretty much in this chair full time, I’m having trouble just doing everyday stuff and brushing my teeth and to shower, my quality of life’s dropped quite a bit, my energy levels, everything.’\”

    He\’s A Special Guy: Lex Luger

    Lex Luger discussed how he had actually regained a lot of mobility following his original 2008 spinal cord injury after spending 2 years in a rehab center. After he fell down a few times, the doctors convinced him to start using mobility devices to avoid further damage. This change however, led to him losing his confidence and he became dependent for even the most basic day to day tasks.

    Revealing how DDP reacted to his request, the former WCW star said that he was more than willing to help and their friendship has only grown strong since then:

    \”You know DDP, all you got to do is tell him that he goes, ‘Brother, I’ve been waiting for you to come to me on this.’ So we went to work, and we made amazing progress that we were going to reveal to everybody for his incredible partner, Steve and him are documenting, kind of filming it and the progress, and it’s going to be pretty cool. I’m real excited and thankful for what he’s doing with me. Our friendship was always there, but our friendship is growing. So he’s a special guy.”

    Lex Luger seems to be making great progress in his recovery with DDP. A recent video showed that the wrestling veteran is able to stand up on his own and move his body a lot freely than he did before. During the talk, Luger noted that he is able to do the basic tasks like brushing his teeth or getting into the bathroom by himself once again as well.

  • DDP Puts Over Former Champion After NXT Appearance

    Diamond Dallas Page has put over former NXT Champion Trick Williams after his surprise appearance at last night\’s episode of the Black & Silver show.

    The wrestling veteran made a brief on-screen appearance during the show, being shown as part of the crowd during the main event NXT Championship match between Oba Femi and Eddy Thorpe.

    Page took to X on Wednesday morning to comment on his visit. He posted some backstage photos with Williams, claiming that the 30-year-old has a bright future ahead:

    \”A little over a year ago I was doing an interview and I was asked who I thought would be the next #NXT Superstar to cross over to the main #WWE roster and make a serious impact. I said it would be Trick! Nothing has changed. I think you can expect big things when my man crosses over\”

    \"DDP

    Trick Williams dropped the NXT title to Oba Femi in a triple-threat match at New Year\’s Evil earlier this month. This ended his second run with the championship at 98 days. The former champion confronted Femi after he retained his title at last night\’s show, indicating that he was not out of the title picture just yet.

    It\’s not known if DDP\’s surprise visit to the performance center had any behind-the-scenes significance. He signed a new legends deal with the company in October last year and it\’s possible that his on-screen appearance is tied to some future storyline development.

    DDP Says No To One More Match But Isn’t Done In Wrestling

  • DDP Says No To One More Match But Isn\’t Done In Wrestling

    \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page\’s days competing in the ring are behind the WWE Hall of Famer, but the positive legend has plans for at least one last Diamond Cutter. On the Insight podcast, Page, who is 68, was asked if he\’d consider wrestling again, possibly for his 70th birthday.

    \”No [laughs]. It\’s so important for me, my body feels good.\”

    Page recalled wrestling a 70-year-old Bruno Sammartino as part of a fan event, which Page saw as an incredible honor. Despite Sammartino feeling like he wouldn\’t be able to do much due to his \”aches and pains\” Page recalled the former WWWF World Champion holding nothing back when he fought off an interfering Larry Zybysko.

    Page\’s last official match came on the Page has no plans on competing January 15, 2020, edition of AEW Dynamite, where he was on the losing end of a six-man tag-team match. While Page doesn\’t plan on wrestling at 70, the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion does have something special planned to mark the occasion.

    \”I am there for a diamond cutter. I do want to hit one when I\’m 70.\”

    With his commitment to fitness and his signature brand of DDP Yoga, Page remains in excellent shape at his age, and could theoretically have a match. Nevertheless, Page is happy to leave his time in the ring in the past, though wrestlers should watch out for a Diamond Cutter out of nowhere by the WWE Hall of Famer.

    Jake Roberts On Sobriety: I’d Have Died Years Ago If Not For DDP

  • Jake Roberts On Sobriety: I\’d Have Died Years Ago If Not For DDP

    Jake \’The Snake\’ Roberts would not be living right now if not for the immense effort from him and others to combat his substance abuse issues. For years, Roberts battled an addiction to alcohol and other substances and would spend 14 weeks in a WWE-endorsed rehab clinic in 2007. Despite this, it wouldn\’t be until Page moved in with \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page in 2012 that Roberts was able to turn his life around.

    Speaking on the Insight podcast, Roberts was asked if he still struggles with his sobriety and shared that alcohol no longer is able to coax him.

    \”The smell of alcohol turns my stomach. I can walk through an airport blindfolded and tell you where the bars are at. Because of the smell. That\’s my stomach now and I\’m glad.\”

    Roberts\’ time with DDP and battle with substance abuse was documented in the documentary The Resurrection of Jake the Snake. When asked how he was able to overcome his demons, Jake made clear it wasn\’t a solitary venture.

    \”A lot of damn work, it took a lot of work. It took a lot of patience and some good friends.

    Roberts is just one of several wrestlers helped by DDP, who also aided Scott Hall with his battles with substances. Had Page not stepped in, Roberts would not have been alive for the interview according to the WWE legend.

    \”Nope. No doubt in my mind. I\’d have been dead several years ago. That\’s where I was going.\”

    Roberts is not just surviving, but thriving at the age of 69 as the manager of La Facción Ingobernable. Roberts also serves as an advisor for the community outreach program AEW Together where he uses his experience to help others make the right choices.

  • DDP Inks WWE Legends Deal Following Bad Blood Appearance

    WWE is once again going to \”feel the bang\” as DDP has signed a legends deal with the company. Cody Rhodes\’ \’Nightmare Family\’ crew is finding themselves into the WWE fold as \’The Master Of The Diamond Cutter\’ announced via social media that he put pen to paper on a WWE legends deal.

    Dallas was a prominent presence last night at WWE Bad Blood as he was shown hanging out in a \”Superstar\” suite before they showed the WWE Hall of Famer sitting at ringside for the PLE alongside several other legends including Mickie James and Scott Steiner. A former rival Goldberg nearly got physical with WWE World Champion GUNTHER as well.

    Page kept his ties to Cody Rhodes all the way back at the Royal Rumble earlier this year when Dallas sat in the post-show media scrum for Cody after \’The American Nightmare\’ won the 30-man match.

    Despite his kindship with Cody, Page has his ties all over the mainstream wrestling world as WCW\’s \”People\’s Champion\” is proactive in the wellness of both legends and modern talent alike. Dallas has notoriously helped names like Jake Roberts and Scott Hall on their roads to sobriety in addition to helping current stars bounce back like Drew McIntyre, Darby Allin and Big Bill.

    Another \’Nightmare Family\’ name who was in attendance for WWE Bad Blood was WWE Hall Of Famer Arn Anderson who has been a prominent presence at the side of Rhodes both in AEW and WWE. On the latest episode of \”ARN\”, \’The Enforcer\’ revealed that as of that recording, he was not under a legends deal with WWE, but it remains to be seen if he signed a deal while in Atlanta this past Saturday.

  • Chris Jericho, DDP, Cody Rhodes & More Contribute Big Money To Ice Train\’s GoFundMe Campaign After His Passing

    The pro wrestling world is like a family in many ways. When someone is taken from us, many times the community steps up to help those who were left behind. After Ice Train\’s passing, many of those who knew him are now helping his family through this trying time.

    Ice Train\’s GoFundMe

    Ice Train passed away at 56-years-old, and many who worked with him during his days in the ring spoke out to grieve the loss. As of this writing, his cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, but he had health issues. Now, his family is in need of assistance. 

    The description for the GoFundMe, written by Diamond Dallas Page, explains how the money will be used to help Ice Train\’s family. The two had a 30-year friendship, and now DDP wants to make sure that Harold Hogue\’s family is taken care of to the best of his ability.

    Ice Train was born with congenital heart disease, so he couldn\’t get insurance. Due to this, his family is in a terrible circumstance right now.

    Harold Hogue aka \”Ice Train\” aka \”Smooth\” (to me he was always \”H\”) was a warrior and one of the kindest people I’ve ever known. Our 30 year relationship was filled with laughter & brotherhood. We were always there for each other.

    Our families are one family.

    Harold was born with a congenital heart disease and passed away unexpectedly on January 23, 2024. Because of his condition, he was unable to get life insurance, leaving his wife Tiana and his 7 kids too soon…without their rock, and their primary provider.

    Please consider donating in honor of Harold, to help support his family after losing such a great husband, father, and friend. I love you H – DDP.

    As of this writing, they have raised $17,990 of their $50,000 goal. Some notable names have already contributed substantial donations for the campaign. 

    Notable Donations Already

    Several figures from the wrestling community have contributed to Ice Train\’s GoFundMe campaign. Dallas Page donated $10,000, Chris Jericho contributed $5,000, and Cody Rhodes put in $1,000. 

    Our thoughts are with Ice Train\’s family, friends, and fans at this time. We hope that they reach their goal, because his family could certainly use the assistance. You may visit the link here for more information on Ice Train\’s GoFundMe account.

  • Paul Walter Hauser references Matt Cardona, Get The Tables, nWo & More in Emmys Acceptance Speech

    Matt Cardona has been making his name ever since his release from WWE, and now the \’Indy God\’ had his name mentioned during the Emmy Awards. 

    The 75th annual Emmy Awards took place this week from the Peacock Theater in Downtown Los Angeles, California. The awards covered programming from June 2022 to May 2023, with nominations announced in July of 2023.

    Paul Walter Hauser took home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his role as Larry Hall in Apple TV+\’s Black Bird. 

    Hauser\’s acceptance speech included several name-drops and references from the world of pro wrestling, including Matt Cardona and \’get the tables!\’

    Paul Walter Hauser brings pro wrestling to the Emmy\’s

    If Hauser\’s name sounds familiar, it\’s because had a match for Pro Wrestling REVOLVER last November. 

    During his acceptance speech, Hauser name-dropped Matt Cardona, saying he\’s going to beat the \’Indy God\’ at the upcoming Ready or Not event on March 16. 

    It wasn\’t just Matt Cardona that Hauser referenced during his rap-based acceptance speech. The actor also gave a shoutout to Kota Ibushi and referred to the \’Wolfpac\’, a nod to the NWO off-shoot faction.

    WWE Hall of Famer \’Diamond\’ Dallas Page was among the lengthy list of people that Hauser wished to thank. Hauser ended his speech with a \”get the tables\”, a nod to the legendary tag team the Dudley Boyz. 

    Paul Walter Hauser won his Emmy award in a category that also included Murray Bartlett (Welcome to Chippendales, Nick De Noia), Richard Jenkins (Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, Lionel Dahmer), Joseph Lee (Beef, George Nakai), Ray Liotta (Black Burd, James \’Big Jim\’ Keener), Young Mazino (Beef, Paul Cho), and Jesse Plemons (Love and Death, Allan Gore).

  • Hidden Feature Uncovered in WCW/nWo Revenge After 25 Years, DDP Reacts

    It may have been decades since the release of the popular WCW/nWo Revenge video game, but this week, a hidden feature has been discovered. 

    WCW/nWo Revenge was released on the Nintendo 64 in late 1998 and as the name suggests, leaned heavily into the popularity of the New World Order at the time. The game featured one of the most up-to-date rosters as well as several arenas. 

    A New Feature

    As one of the most popular wrestling games around, WCW/nWo Revenge still has a legion of loyal players. This week, one player learned of a hidden feature in the game, which allows for running grapples. Rather than a running strike as is the norm, these moves allowed players to perform sequences while in motion, in what was a revolutionary concept for the time. 

    This reveal even got the attention of Diamond Dallas Page, who was a playable character in the game, and took to Twitter to share his reaction. 

    The Reception of WCW/nWo Revenge

    WCW/nWo Revenge received overwhelmingly positive reviews from fans and critics. Within a month, the game became the top-selling third-party Nintendo game ever. The game was praised for its improved graphics on its predecessor WCW Vs. nWo: World Tour, as well as new features including a Championship Mode. The game would eventually sell 1.88 million copies in the US, making it one of the best-selling N64 games of all time. It would also outsell the also-popular WWF No Mercy game, which would be released two years later. 

  • DDP reveals his advice to Sami Zayn

    Sami Zayn may have come up short against Roman Reigns at Elimination Chamber, but some fans are still rooting for him to be added to the WrestleMania match with Reigns and Cody Rhodes.

    WWE is reportedly concerned about Zayn\’s popularity overpowering Rhodes. There has been speculation that Zayn and Kevin Owens will headline Night One of WrestleMania 39 against The Usos for the Undisputed Tag Titles.

    What DDP told Sami Zayn

    \"DDP\"

    WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page said in an exclusive interview with Forbes that he gave Zayn advice at Royal Rumble. “I literally walked up to Sami at the Rumble and gave him a hug.\”

    “I love the Bloodline stuff. And Sami is a guy that, if you look at it, you don’t say ‘that guy’s money.’ But if you watch him and his storylines, and his interviews and his work in the ring, he’s money. He’s top guy money. Put him in a main event and he will draw, especially against the Bloodline, but really anyone.”

    “I told him ‘bro, I love what you’re doing. Just be patient. Because it’s gonna happen.’ That’s the hardest thing for talent, is to be patient.”

    Do you think Sami Zayn should be added to the Rhodes vs. Reigns match or do you think he should compete with Owens for the tag titles?

  • DDP Explains Why Dominik Mysterio Should Be Booked Like The Rock

    Is Dominik Mysterio this generation\’s The Rock? Perhaps not, but WWE could book him like the Hollywood A-Lister.

    Dominik had his in-ring WWE debut at Summerslam 2020, and has worked with his father Rey Mysterio since then. 

    At Clash at the Castle, Dominik turned on his father and Edge, and is now aligned with the Judgment Day. 

    Booking like The Rock

    Dominik has certainly gained a ton of heat since turning heel, but he\’s hardly the only cocky young heel in WWE history. 

    After debuting as a babyface in 1996, a hostile response from the crowd would force WWE to turn Rocky Maivia heel and he became The Rock the following year. 

    Speaking on the latest episode of the DDP Snake Pit podcast, Diamond Dallas Page said WWE should antagonize fans as they did with the Brahma Bull. 

    \”If I was booking, I would have Dominik beat anyone that he gets in front of. Because if you push him like that, they [the fans] are going to hate him even more. A la The Rock. Remember when they gave him that big push as Rocky Maivia? People hated him! [Now] Rock is the most beloved human being on the planet right now. He\’s not the People\’s Champion, he\’s the World\’s Champion. 

    \”When you\’re pushing someone in wrestling that fans don\’t think should be pushed, it gets that other level of heat… He doesn\’t need to say anything and they go crazy.\”

    Speaking about  Rey Mysterio, Page speculated that the three-time WWE World Champion must feel conflicted feuding with his son. 

    \”Dominik doesn\’t have to say anything. They want Rey to beat his a**!

    \”\”I\’m sure this is something that Rey is loving doing and also hurting [him] at the same time. Because it\’s his kid… He\’s so proud of his son.\”

    Diamond Dallas Page.

    On last week\’s SmackDown, Rey threatened to quit WWE rather than fight his son, and an agreement was made to move the older Mysterio to the blue brand.

    The Judgment Day

    Mysterio is the latest addition to the Judgment Day, which also consists of Finn Balor, Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley. 

    When asked about the group, Page said that Balor has benefitted greatly from the stable. 

    \”They\’ve given Finn a lot of spots, championships. But they never really gave him the real push. Now he\’s getting that. Every one of them. They\’re talented. They look good and they can deliver in the ring. Finn of all of them, is the master. Finn can do anything.\”

    The Judgment Day is set to compete at Crown Jewel on November 5, where they\’ll face AJ Styles, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson.

    Triple H

    Dominik\’s heel turn, like much of the Judgment Day\’s booking, was the decision of WWE\’s Head of Creative Triple H.

    Speaking about the Game, Page said he knew from the start that things would change for the better.

    \”I knew when Hunter [WWE Head of Talent Relations & Creative Triple H] got a hold of the booking of it, it was going to change and be more wrestling-oriented. Hence less matches, more time, because that\’s where stories really get told.\”

    Triple H is currently away from WWE after testing positive for Covid-19.

    “Looks Like You’ll Need A Real Man” – Dominik Mocks Rey Mysterio After He Joins WWE SmackDown Roster

  • DDP and Jake Roberts Reminisce on Living Together, Helping Marcus Bagwell

    On the most recent edition of DDP Snake Pit, WWE Hall of Famers \”Diamond\” Dallas Page and Jake \”The Snake\” Roberts took questions from listeners with co-host Conrad Thompson. One question led to DDP and Roberts discussing the more difficult times they had while living together.

    Roberts has battled addiction to drugs and alcohol, but it reached a tipping point before he moved in with Page in 20212. Roberts, under the guidance of Page, was able to overcome his tribulations as documented in The Resurrection of Jake Roberts.

    Living together through troubled times

    \"Jake
    (via AEW)

    Listener Dan asked, \”When you lived together and times got tough, how were you both able to realize that tough love and getting Jake help was more important than just giving in to outbursts, even if it may have cost you your relationship?\”

    After a pause and a laugh from Page – \”As Jake points to me\” – Page said he usually does some morning meditative time, but he wasn\’t doing it at the time they were living together. What he did have was gratitude, specifically toward Roberts and the late Dusty Rhodes. Page was a little choked up as he discussed how those two were the only ones who really believed in him.

    When Page asked Roberts how he could repay him for his time and investment, he said Roberts simply replied, \”Pass it on.\” He said that respect he had and still has for Roberts led to not only taking in Roberts, but, \”It could takedown the sometimes anger, sometimes bewilderment (laughs), you know, and know that I just needed to breathe and believe and keep moving forward.\”

    Roberts added that when he and Page had their confrontations, he knew the bottom line: \”If I leave here, I\’m done.\” He admitted he would argue points, but not to \”being ran out of there.\” He said he wasn\’t afraid to drop down to his knees and asked to stay, that he needed Page.

    Continuing to \”pass it on\” with Marcus Bagwell

    \"Buff
    Buff Bagwell

    They used that moment to transition into who they\’re helping now: Marchs \”Buff\” Bagwell. Page said while Bagwell is a good guy, \”He\’s an asshole.\”

    Roberts added that as performers, \”Sometimes we get caught up in our own publicity and our own bullshit that we get lost, and once you\’re lost, it\’s hard to get back. He said Bagwell is adapting like Roberts did a decade ago, but added, \”This is your last chance, Buff – Marcus. If you don\’t make it through this, don\’t find a better path, you\’ll be the next one we bury.\”

    Bagwell was in at least two major auto accidents in the past decade, one in 2012 and another in 2020. Both left him with multiple fractures and other injuries, and the 2020 accident resulted in an arrest on multiple charges.

    Roberts ended this listener question by saying he likes to mentor and help people that are still struggling, but the tough thing is to not become emotionally connected to that person because \”their sickness will end up hurting you, and that\’s something I have to be careful of.\”

    The two went on to answer more questions, including the WCW locker room in 1995 when Atlanta won the World Series, if either were interested in running their own promotion or a show (an emphatic no from both), Roberts\’ (negative) experience with World Class Championship Wrestling, and more.

    If using this transcription, please give credit to SEScoops and DDP Snake Pit.

  • Conrad Thompson Tried Getting DDP To Do a \’Last Match\’

    It appears as though Conrad Thompson also tried getting WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page to do a Last Match.

    Recently, two-time WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair headlined a Last Match event in which the main event was headlined by the last match of his career. Flair teamed up with Andrade El Idolo to defeat Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett.

    The event was promoted by Conrad Thompson and Jim Crockett Promotions at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium. Since, Thompson has teased doing more events allowing legends to have their \”Last Match.\”

    On a recent episode of his podcast, \”DDP Snake Pit,\” Diamond Dallas Page revealed that Thompson suggested that he take part in a Last Match. However, it doesn\’t seem to be something DDP is interested in.

    \”It\’s nothing I\’ll ever do,\” DDP said. \”Conrad was like \’You know DDP, you\’d be perfect to do one of these,\’ I was like \’Nah bro, I\’m good. I had my last match, it\’s never going to be better than that.\’ I was lucky enough to have all my boys around me and it was fun. I\’m good with that.\”

    Page did get to do a match two years ago in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he teamed up with Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall against MJF and The Butcher and Blade.

    DDP was also at Flair\’s Last Match event, where he hit Matt Cardona with a Diamond Cutter, which got quite the reaction from the crowd. He was one of several professional wrestling legends at the show; including The Undertaker, Bret Hart, and Mick Foley.

    Quotes via Wrestling Inc.

  • WWE Hall of Famer Wants AEW To Sign Dakota Kai

    One WWE Hall of Famer thinks Tony Khan should be rushing to the phone to call Dakota Kai.

    WWE has been known for having waves of talent releases. The promotion\’s most recent one took place in late April. In total, 10 members of the NXT roster were cut. Among the names released was Dakota.

    DDP Urges AEW To Sign Dakota Kai

    During an appearance on SportsKeeda\’s The Bro Show, WCW legend DDP explained why he thinks AEW President Tony Khan should reach out to Dakota Kai.

    \”I was surprised they got rid of Dakota [Kai]. She\’s good-looking, her work is really good, I was expecting to see her up there, but she never got that shot. If I was Tony Khan, I\’d pick her a** up.

    \”They have some good talent there with the women now. WWE\’s women\’s talent is off the charts. Most of the girls are better than the guys.

    \”If I was Tony, I\’d pick her up. But it\’s a different world now bro.\”

    AEW hasn\’t been afraid to snag former WWE talent. Some feel that Kai could be at the top of Khan\’s list as far as female talent is concerned.

    During her time in WWE, Dakota became a two-time NXT Tag Team Champion alongside Raquel Gonzalez, now known as Raquel Rodriguez.

    Kai also won the 2021 Dusty Rhodes Classic with Raquel. In 2019, Dakota won the NXT Year-End Award for \”Future Star of NXT.\”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CdM28iNKsdC

  • Big Cass Says DDP Was Instrumental in Alcoholism Battle

    Former WWE star Big Cass has touted Hall Of Famer Diamond Dallas Page as an instrumental figure in his battle with alcoholism.

    Recently, Cass, real name William Morrissey, was a guest on Renee Paquette’s podcast, The Sessions. Morrissey opened up about his battle with alcoholism, being released from WWE, and how Dallas Page helped him get back on his feet.

    He first noted that the drinking got out of hand in 2017 just before his WWE release. Morrissey admitted that everyone knew he was having a drinking problem, and he didn\’t care at the time. However, looking back, he now views the situation as \”sad.\”

    “Like in 2017, the drinking was really out of hand. It was easy to hide, because alcoholics are very good at hiding their alcoholism. So I was hiding it from a lot of people.

    \”I got injured and when I came back, I was just in a bad place mentally, and not to blame it on taking medications that I definitely shouldn’t be drinking with, but I guess I just kept drinking and kept fuc*ing up. The drinking, yeah, it got completely out of hand to the point where everybody was noticing.

    \”There was no hiding it anymore. Everybody knew. It’s sad to say looking back, but at the time, I knew everybody knew and I still didn’t give a fu*k. I was like, I didn’t care.

    \”I don’t know what switch flipped in my head, but I really gave up spiritually. At that point, I was done.”

    Morrissey then talked about having his seizure at the House Of Hardcore event in Philadelphia. He revealed that, shortly after the incident, Diamond Dallas Page reached out to him. Page offered his help and the pair finally linked up in Atlanta in 2019. Morrissey touted Page as \”instrumental\” in getting him through rehab the first time.

    “After I had that first seizure in Philadelphia back in 2018, he got in touch with me. He said, ‘You know if you’re ever ready to come down here and visit Atlanta, I’d really like to help you.’

    \”I guess in May of 2019 is when I went down to Atlanta to link up with him just hanging out, working out, and talking. We developed a relationship and a bond.”

    Quotes via WrestlingNews.co

  • DDP Reveals His Pick for \”Best Match of the Past Decade\”

    AEW has put on many great matches in the short history of the company. DDP believes one such match from the very first PPV of the promotion is the best wrestling match of the decade.

    The wrestling veteran talked about a number of things in the latest episode of his Snake Pit podcast. He first discussed Hulk Hogan\’s WWE return after his WCW run.

    Speaking about Cody Rhodes, DDP discussed the match between him and Dustin Rhodes from Double Or Nothing 2019. He called it the best match of the decade:

    “That match was old school and new school mixed the way it needs to mix to really do something, Vince would’ve never given them that opportunity.

    Because he didn’t believe in it.” said DDP, “But he went out there and he proved it, and to me, it’s the best match of the decade.\”

    The former WCW star mentioned how the fans were invested in the bout from start to finish. According to him, the AEW fans remind him of ECW fans because of this quality.

    DDP also talked about Rhodes\’ decision to leave WWE in 2016. He explained that Dusty Rhodes would have been very proud of his son for taking the risk.

    Big E Receives Generous Offer From DDP Following Neck Injury

    Quote via WrestlingInc

  • DDP Reveals What Cody Rhodes Told Him About AEW Exit

    Wrestling legend \”Diamond\” Dallas Page is a long time friend of the Rhodes family, and thus, may be able to provide some insight into why Cody has left All Elite Wrestling.

    Rhodes\’ exit from the company he helped start came out on February 15th, with both Cody and Brandi Rhodes commenting on their exits, as well as an official company statement on the news. Since then, there has been nothing new to report despite rumors persisting that Cody will sign with WWE.

    DDP shed some light on the Cody situation during an interview with Fightful. A portion of that interview was released early via Fightful Select.

    \”Cody called me two days before,\” Page said. \”He said, \’Listen, I\’m gonna tell you something. But I can only tell you so much. But I know if I don\’t call you and tell you, you\’re gonna want to kill me. You\’ll be so pissed off, so I have to call and tell you that I love Tony Khan. He\’s a great guy. He loves me. But we\’re gonna split up and I want to go off and do something else. I can\’t tell you about what it is right now, but I promise at some point I will.\’\”

    Page explained, \”I don\’t want to know sometimes. You know what I mean? I want to be surprised. I gave him all of my viewpoints on everything. I don\’t know if you\’re doing this, I don\’t know if you\’re doing that, I don\’t know if you\’re doing this. But I gave him my viewpoints and then Cody\’s a man. He\’s very successful. To me whatever he does, I wish him the best. I hope I helped him with some of my insights to help direct him. But he\’s gonna do what he\’s gonna do.\”

    Several reports have circulated about Cody potentially losing influence backstage at AEW and that being a catalyst for his leaving the company. The two sides were unable to come to an agreement on a new contract, and AEW also opted to not utilize their option on Cody\’s initial deal with the company. Per Dave Meltzer, Cody and Brandi had three year contracts with two year rollover options that were not exercised by Tony Khan.

    Check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube.