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Tag: Kurt Angle

  • Kurt Angle Explains Why Chad Gable Hasn\’t Become WWE Main Eventer

    WWE Hall of Famer and Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle has shared his thoughts on the frequent comparisons between himself and WWE Raw superstar Chad Gable. Both men share a decorated amateur wrestling background, with Angle winning Olympic gold in 1996 and Gable competing in the 2012 London Games.

    In a recent appearance on the Ariel Helwani Show, Angle discussed Gable\’s talent and the \”niche\” he has carved out for himself, even if it is \”kind of identical\” to his own legendary character. During the interview, Angle was asked how he feels about the constant comparisons from fans.

    “I think he’s great. I’m just happy that he was able to find his niche. I know it’s kind of identical to mind. If it works for him, I’m happy for him. I think, regardless of whether he did my character or anyone else’s, I think the kid’s incredibly talented. So, I think he would have succeeded either way.”

    Angle also addressed a common critique that has followed Gable throughout his career: his size. The Hall of Famer dismissed the idea that Gable is \”undersized\” for the main event, pointing to other smaller superstars who have reached the top of the industry.

    “You know, I think the problem with him, and I think it’s only because the office looks at him like this, but he’s a little undersized. But that’s not an excuse. Chris Benoit was five-nine. Eddie Guerrero was five-eight. Rey Mysterio is five-five. So, someone like Chad could certainly be a main eventer.”

    Chad Gable is currently out of action with a legitimate injury. He was last seen on WWE programming in June, when he was written off television after a backstage attack by Penta.

  • Kurt Angle Praises The Rock\’s \”Smashing Machine\” Performance

    WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has given a glowing review of the new film \”The Smashing Machine\” and, in particular, the performance of his former rival, Dwayne \”The Rock\” Johnson. In a post on X, the Olympic Gold Medalist called the movie a \”fantastic film that I believe will be considered a classic\” and stated that The Rock\’s portrayal of MMA legend Mark Kerr has elevated him into the conversation of the \”greatest performers today.\” Angle\’s has a personal history with Mark Kerr, having competed against him for a spot on the Olympic wrestling team.

    “Just watched The Smashing Machine. What a fantastic film that I believe will be considered a classic,” Angle wrote. “Mark Kerr was ‘The Guy’ I had to beat to qualify for the Olympic Games, which pushed me to transform into a version of myself I never thought I could be. Your story, beyond wrestling, is truly inspirational, my friend. For Dwayne Johnson to take on such a role and elevate it to another level in his career makes me consider him one of the greatest performers today. Watching Dwayne transform into Mark Kerr through this film was like deja vu…..no words, just applause. This movie deserves an Oscar, and I believe it will receive the recognition it merits. Well done, my brothers.”

    \”The Smashing Machine\” tells the story of Mark Kerr\’s rise to stardom in the early days of mixed martial arts, as well as his battles with painkiller addiction and his complex relationship with his wife, Dawn. While the film has received some criticism for its underwhelming opening weekend box office numbers, which were the lowest of The Rock\’s career, the performance from the man himself has been met with widespread critical acclaim and has even generated Oscar buzz.

    The Rock has stated that he is committed to this new phase of his career, where he is focused on expanding his range as an actor. “In our storytelling world, you can’t control box office results — but what I realized you can control is your performance, and your commitment to completely disappear and go elsewhere,” he wrote in a recent social media post. “And I will always run to that opportunity.”

  • Kurt Angle Reveals How The Rock Treated Him Early In His Career

    Kurt Angle has explained how The Rock helped his career.

    The WWE Hall of Famer recently had an interview with Sports Illustrated. He talked about things such as making a movie about his life, his start in WWE and more.

    During the talk, the former world champion was asked if he had any stories he wanted to share about The Rock. Kurt Angle said that he can\’t remember a story but he remembers The Hollywood star being very generous during their interactions:

    \”Rock and I had such a blast. I don\’t have any stories, but the cool thing about him is he was really giving. I was an Olympic Gold medallist. It wasn\’t like I was a nobody coming into WWE.

    But when you go in there and you go in there with an ego, you\’re going to get in trouble very quickly. So I never had that ego. I always felt that these stars that I was going to wrestle like the Rock and Stone Cold, I put them at a higher level above me.\”

    You\’re With Us: Kurt Angle

    The wrestling veteran explained that The Rock always treated him as an equal despite his limited experience in the business. Kurt Angle also recalled pinning The Great One to win his first world title in the company:

    \”But Dwayne always brought me up to that level and said, \’Hey, you\’re with us, you\’re up here with us, you\’re not down there with the rest.\’ So, he was always very generous with the way he wrestled.

    He allowed….he was my first world championship match where I won the world championship. He didn\’t have to say yes, but he did. So I\’m just very grateful. I think the Rock has done so much for my career.\”

  • Kurt Angle Reveals Upcoming Movie Based On His Life

    Kurt Angle is making a movie about his life.

    The Olympic Gold Medallist recently had an interview with Sports Illustrated. He talked about things such as his start in wrestling, how The Rock treated him early in his career and more.

    During the interview, the former World Champion also discussed the Smashing Machine movie based on the life of his former rival Mark Kerr. When asked if we\’ll ever see his own life story being shown on the big screen like that, Kurt Angle revealed that he\’s actually working on a movie based on his life:

    \”Yeah, you know what, we are working on that movie. I have the directors Ian and Eshom Nelms, they\’re brothers.

    They were former wrestlers in high school and college. So they understand my sport. We\’ve been talking to each other. We\’re almost done with the script.\”

    Before We Do Anything: Kurt Angle

    Kurt Angle did not reveal which periods of his life the movie will cover. He explained that the project is in the pre-production stage right now, and they want to perfect the script before doing anything else:

    “We already got the investors. So we\’re in a good position right now, but we\’re gonna make sure the script\’s perfected before we do anything, before we pick the cast and everything like that.

    So we\’re taking our time and knowing the Smashing Machine just came out. It might be a good time to breathe a little bit, let that movie digest, and then continue on.

    But yeah, the crazy thing is, ironically, Mark Kerr and I are doing a movie, and we wrestled each other for the Olympic team, and it\’s just really ironic that his story\’s coming out close to mine.\”

  • John Cena Honors Past Rivals In Final SmackDown Match

    John Cena has wrestled for the final time on WWE SmackDown, a brand that Cena was a staple of for much of his wrestling career. In his final encounter on the blue brand, Cena battled United States Champion Sami Zayn in an encounter that saw several throwbacks to John\’s epic past.

    During the match, John delivered a Pop-Up Powerbomb, a nod to his wars with Kevin Owens in 2015. Owens\’ main-roster debut match would see him beat Cena clean, instantly putting him on the map as someone to take seriously.

    Cena would also hit an Angle Slam and an Ankle lock, honoring WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle. John made his SmackDown debut in 2002 by answering Kurt\’s open challenge, ushering in the \’Ruthless Aggression\’ era in the process.

    A GTS in honor of CM Punk was fitting given that the show was taking place in Chicago. A spear in the corner was a nod to Edge, considered by many to be John\’s greatest rival. John delivered a wild-eyed performance, making clear that this was a tribute to the Canadian.

    A JBL-inspired Clothesline From Hell would complete John\’s tributes to his past rivals in his final SmackDown match. With only a handful of days left in his career, it remains to be seen what else Cena pulls out before saying his in-ring farewell.

    Brock Lesnar Attacks John Cena On SmackDown, WrestlePalooza Match Set

  • Kurt Angle Reveals Permanent Health Repercussions of Wrestling Career

    Kurt Angle has revealed the permanent health issues he is forced to deal with due to injuries suffered in his long wrestling career.

    The Olympic Gold Medalist was the most recent guest on Undertaker\’s Six Feet Under podcast. They talked about things such as Angle\’s wrestling career, his retirement match and more.

    During the talk, the former TNA World Champion also provided an update on his health. Kurt Angle claimed that he feels pretty good overall, and the only thing that gives him trouble is his motor skills resulting from various neck injuries:

    “Yeah, I feel pretty good. The only thing that bothers me now is I have motor skill problems. My hands shake ‘cause my neck is so bad. And there’s nothing I can do about it.\”

    There\’s Just Nothing: Kurt Angle

    Kurt Angle mentioned that he went to a doctor to explore a potential disc replacement surgery. An MRI, however, revealed that he didn\’t have any discs in the vertebrae as they have all fused together and there is nothing they can do about it:

    \”And so I have a hard time, I get pain going down my arms. My pinkies, I can’t feel either one of my pinkies. They’re gone.

    So, I just have a lot of functional problems. You know, it just sucks. There’s nothing I can do. I tried stem cell; I tried disc replacement. There’s just nothing. I have to deal with it.\”

    Though later, the former world champion, who underwent double knee replacement surgery back in 2022, claimed that he would take neck issues over bad knees.

  • The Undertaker Recalls Vince McMahon Going \’Batsh*t Crazy\’ Over Botched Finish

    The Undertaker has recalled Vince McMahon being very angry with the finish to a classic SmackDown match.

    The Dead Man invited Kurt Angle as a guest on the latest episode of his Six Feet Under podcast. They talked about things such as Angle\’s career before WWE, his transition to wrestling and more.

    During the session, they also discussed the infamous SmackDown match from July 2002 whose ending was shot twice. Undertaker mentioned how the match was supposed to end in a draw, but the camera crew messed up the angle and McMahon was not happy with it:

    \”So the finish was again, you end up in Hell’s Gate, yeah, and then you stack me, right? Or you stack me up. And it was supposed to be a simultaneous 1, 2, 3 on you and me, tap. We did at the same time.

    One, two, three, tap, right, yeah. They missed the camera angle… They didn’t get the tap. And that was the end of the night. The bell rings. People start leaving. And Vince loses his mind. He is batsh*t crazy.”

    Kurt Angle Recalls The Match

    The match that main evented the show saw Kurt Angle challenging The Phenom for the WWE Undisputed World Heavyweight Championship.

    The Olympic Gold Medalist recalled how the fans started leaving after the bell rang and they had to re-shoot the ending using the employees:

    “We had to wait till the whole arena left. And then we had to place all the employees in a corner of the arena to make it look like this whole arena. And so they have one camera shot on the opposite side showing our match.”

    The two WWE legends would face each other many times after this infamous match, which The Last Outlaw picking the victory in the majority of their encounters.

  • Kurt Angle Seeks Fans\’ Help In Search Of Lost Owen Hart Match

    Kurt Angle has faced countless wrestlers, but now the Olympic Gold Medalist is on the hunt for a very rare match. On X, Angle recalled facing Owen Hart in a dark match mere days before Hart\’s tragic passing at Over the Edge. In his plea, Angle was hopeful that a fan recorded the match and encouraged anyone with footage to get in touch.

    Considered by many as two of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time, a showdown between Hart and Angle would be a must-see if footage exists. With Hart fondly remembered for his matches to this day, it\’s hardly a surprise that Kurt hopes that somebody will have footage of his time in the ring with the Rocket.

    Over 25 years after his passing, Owen Hart remains a beloved name in wrestling, and tributes continue to pour for the Canadian legend. It remains to be seen if footage of Hart Vs. Angle ever sees the light of day.

  • Kurt Angle Joins Real American Freestyle as Live Event Commentator and Partner

    Wrestling legend Kurt Angle is making his return to the wrestling world in a new capacity, as Real American Freestyle announced today that the Olympic gold medalist will serve as live event commentator, analyst, and partner for the emerging freestyle wrestling organization. Angle will join Chael Sonnen and Bubba Jenkins in the commentary booth for RAF01, the company\’s inaugural event scheduled for August 30, 2025, at Cleveland\’s Wolstein Center.

    Olympic Hero Brings Credibility to New Wrestling Venture

    The announcement represents a significant coup for Real American Freestyle, bringing in one of wrestling\’s most accomplished figures to lend his expertise and star power to their launch. Angle\’s credentials span both amateur and professional wrestling, making him uniquely qualified to analyze the freestyle wrestling format that RAF is promoting.

    Angle\’s amateur wrestling resume is unparalleled – he captured NCAA Division I Championships in 1990 and 1992 for Clarion University and was later named by USA Wrestling as the greatest shoot wrestler of all time. His crowning amateur achievement came at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where he won freestyle wrestling gold despite competing with injuries, capturing the hearts of the hometown crowd.

    From Olympic Glory to Professional Wrestling Stardom

    Angle\’s transition to professional wrestling proved equally successful. After entering WWE\’s developmental system in 1998, he made his television debut in 1999 and quickly established himself as a main event talent. Within two months of his introduction, he held both the European and Intercontinental Championships simultaneously – a testament to his rapid rise.

    His professional wrestling achievements include: five-time WWE Champion, 13-time world champion overall, and the only wrestler to have captured the WWE Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, WCW Championship, TNA World Heavyweight Championship, IWGP Heavyweight Championship, and NCAA Wrestling Championship. Angle holds the distinction of being both the tenth wrestler to achieve the WWE Triple Crown and the fifth to complete the WWE Grand Slam, while also becoming the first person to hold both WWE and TNA Triple Crowns.

    Hall of Fame Recognition Across Multiple Organizations

    Angle\’s impact on wrestling has been recognized with inductions into three separate halls of fame: the WWE Hall of Fame (2017), TNA Hall of Fame (2013), and Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame (2004). He formally retired from in-ring competition in 2019, making the announcement at WrestleMania 35 after a storied career that spanned over two decades.

    \”Kurt Angle is a living legend. He\’s achieved every accomplishment he could in wrestling, so it makes sense that he\’s partnering with Real American Freestyle as we actively change the name of the game across the sport. Kurt will provide fire, infamy, and unparalleled experience to the commentary and analysis of our live events. We couldn\’t be more excited to have him on the Real American team.\” – Hulk Hogan, RAF Commissioner

    Perfect Fit for Freestyle Wrestling Coverage

    Angle\’s appointment appears to be a natural fit given his freestyle wrestling background and proven ability to connect with audiences. His aggressive in-ring style, influenced by the Attitude Era\’s top stars including Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, and The Rock, should translate well to providing energetic commentary and analysis.

    \”I grew up freestyle wrestling, and achieved the highest level of success in the sport. I couldn\’t be prouder to support athletes at all levels of their careers and partner with Real American Freestyle to make it happen. Chael and Bubba will bring a unique aspect to their analysis given their own backgrounds in combat sports, and I\’m excited to join them for RAF01 to bring freestyle wrestling to audiences around the world.\” – Kurt Angle

    Real American Freestyle\’s High-Profile Launch Strategy

    The Angle signing adds further momentum to Real American Freestyle\’s ambitious rollout, which has already featured signings of top freestyle wrestling talent. The organization, founded by Chad Bronstein, Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, and Israel Martinez with backing from Left Lane Capital, launched in 2025 with a 40-athlete roster.

    RAF promises a \”dynamic modern approach\” to freestyle wrestling coverage, with high-impact entertainment elements designed to captivate both live audiences and television viewers. The commentary team of Angle, Sonnen, and Jenkins brings together expertise from Olympic wrestling, mixed martial arts, and professional wrestling backgrounds.

    Tickets for RAF01 on August 30 at Cleveland\’s Wolstein Center are currently available through Ticketmaster. The event represents the beginning of what Real American Freestyle hopes will be a full slate of events throughout their debut season, positioning themselves as an innovative force in combat sports entertainment.

    For more information about Real American Freestyle and upcoming events, visit realamericanfreestyle.com or follow @RAFWrestlingUSA on social media.

  • Kurt Angle Believes WWE Treated Him As A ‘Liability’ During 2017 Return

    WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently revealed that he believes WWE viewed him as a \”liability\” when he made his celebrated return to the company in 2017. After an 11-year absence, Angle’s comeback was rolled out in a unique sequence that he feels was intentionally backward due to the company\’s concerns.

    Speaking with Inside the Ropes, Angle explained that instead of returning as a wrestler first, WWE started him with a Hall of Fame induction, then a run as the Raw General Manager, before finally allowing him to compete in the ring.

    “What they did with me—especially—they felt like I was a liability. So they started with the Hall of Fame first, they wanted to start slow and easy,” Angle said. “They started with the Hall of Fame, then they went with the GM role second, and then I wrestled third. But in reality, it’s supposed to be the opposite. You wrestle first, you play the GM role second, then you get inducted into the Hall of Fame third.”

    Angle concluded that the only reason he can think of for this cautious, \”opposite\” approach was the company’s perception of him at the time.

    “They did the complete opposite with me. And I have no idea why, and I can only think it’s because I was a liability.”

    Kurt Angle Explains Why He Doesn’t Shy Away From His Dark Past

  • Kurt Angle & The Sandman Trade Barbs Over Infamous ECW Segment

    Kurt Angle has share the ring with countless opponents, but now the Olympian is beefing with The Sandman on social media. Though this is a new conflict, the issues between the two date back to 1996 when Angle appeared at an ECW taping. That same taping saw Raven infamously crucify The Sandman, resulting in Kurt walking out and threatening to sue ECW if he was used on the show.

    In an interview clip recently shared online, The Sandman called Angle a \”p***y\” for walking out in offense of the crucifixion segment. This caught the attention of Angle, who in the comments declared \”If Sandman has a problem with me then do something about it. You p***y.\”

    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/05/\"https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/05/\"

    While Sandman believes Angle was wrong to walk out, ECW did backtrack on the crucifixion. In a character-breaking moment, ECW had Raven apologize for the use of religious symbology that many may have found was in poor taste.

    Nearly three decades later, the crucifixion remains an iconic, infamous part of ECW, even with The Sandman and Kurt Angle having very opposing views on the matter.

  • Kurt Angle Calls John Cena The Michael Jordan Of Pro Wrestling

    Kurt Anglehas drawn a significant comparison between John Cena and basketball legend Michael Jordan, highlighting Cena\’s dedication to professional wrestling. Angle, who was Cena\’s debut opponent on SmackDown in 2002, has long been a supporter of Cena\’s career, even expressing a desire for Cena to be his own retirement opponent at WrestleMania 35.

    While that didn\’t come to fruition due to Angle\’s storyline with Baron Corbin, his high regard for Cena is still strong.  WWE announcers frequently refer to Cena as the \”Greatest of All Time,\” and he stands on the verge of potentially winning his record-breaking 17th World Championship.

    Just as many consider Michael Jordan the GOAT in the NBA with an undefeated NBA Finals record, Angle sees a similar level of commitment and dominance in Cena.

    “He’s the Michael Jordan of wrestling. He committed himself to wrestling entirely — and he drowned himself in it,\” Angle told Timothy Bella of the New York Times. 

    Cena is set to challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in the main event of WrestleMania 41, a match that could further solidify his legendary status in the eyes of many, including Angle, as he can be the all-time World Title record holder.

  • WWE Legend Says It\’s Time For Chyna\’s Solo HOF Induction

    In 2019, Chyna was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for her role as part of D-Generation X. Ever since, fans have argued that Chyna should have had a solo induction, giving fans the chance to celebrate the career of the Ninth Wonder of the World away from DX.

    Speaking to Bill Apter of Sportskeeda, WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle threw his support behind those calling for a solo induction. As for as the Olympian is concerned, it only makes sense for Chyna to be inducted a second time, this time for her role outside the faction.

    \”She frontiered Women’s wrestling and not just women but wrestling men too. She had such a huge impact on the business. She was part of the reason that the business skyrocketed.\”

    Chyna sadly passed in 2016 without ever getting to live the recognition of a Hall of Fame induction, either as a singles star or as part of DX. This year\’s ceremony will see Triple H, Chyna\’s DX ally (and ex) receive his second induction, this time for his singles career.

    Chyna proved herself an icon of women\’s wrestling, which is why Rhea Ripley is honored to be compared to the late wrestler. As for whether a solo induction comes, only time will tell, but many believe her solo induction is long overdue.

    Triple H Confident Chyna Will Get A Solo WWE HOF Induction One Day

  • Kurt Angle Grateful WWE Fans Dropped \’Perc Angle\’ Nickname After Speaking Out

    WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has expressed his appreciation for fans who stopped using the \”Perc Angle\” nickname after he shared that it brought back painful memories of a difficult period in his life.

    During a recent interview with Bro Bible, the Olympic gold medalist acknowledged the overwhelming support from his fanbase after they decided to retire the moniker, which referenced his past struggles with addiction.

    Kurt Angle on Fans Retiring the ‘Perc Angle’ Nickname

    In the interview, Angle revealed his reaction to learning that WWE fans had chosen to stop using the nickname after he publicly voiced his discomfort with it.

    “Thank you so much. I was really pleasantly surprised that they responded that way,” Angle said. “It makes me know that I have true fans out there that really enjoyed my career and loved me for what I did. I’m just grateful that they’re going to drop the name.”

    Angle explained that hearing the phrase reminded him of a dark chapter in his life, one that he has since worked hard to overcome.

    “It was not cool. I’m just glad that they’re now using ‘Peak Angle’ instead,” he added. “I’m very grateful for that.”

    Angle’s Journey to Redemption

    Throughout his career, Angle has been open about his struggles with painkiller addiction, which stemmed from severe injuries sustained in both amateur and pro wrestling. He has since turned his life around and remains dedicated to helping others and mentorship.

    Beyond his legacy in WWE and amateur wrestling, Angle continues to advocate for the growth of wrestling, including the recent addition of women’s wrestling as an NCAA championship sport and increased funding for Team USA athletes.

    While his in-ring days are behind him due to significant health issues—including multiple knee and neck surgeries—Angle remains deeply involved in wrestling through public appearances and interviews.

    Angle is focused on producing two biographical films about his life, with filming set to begin later in the year. His story is set to hit the big screen with Jon Bernthal cast as his father and discussions underway for Gabriel LaBelle to portray Angle himself.

  • Kurt Angle Explains Why He Doesn’t Shy Away From His Dark Past

    Many wrestlers from the Attitude Era battled with issues like addiction but a lot of them do not like to talk about it. Kurt Angle is different, however, as the Olympic Gold Medallist does not shy away from discussing his past mistakes. He is very open about his pill and alcohol addiction through his early WWE and TNA days.

    The WWE Hall of Famer recently had an interview with TribLive to talk about a new movie about his life that is in the works. The film will focus on Angle\’s journey from his childhood through his victory in the Olympics.

    During the interview, Kurt Angle also talked about his past demons and explained that he always talks about it in hopes that people will learn from his mistakes:

    “It is important I use that platform to be able to talk about my life story and hopefully help people out by talking about mistakes I’ve made about my addiction, how I overcame that, and what I had to do to make that happen,”

    I\’m Happy To Motivate People: Kurt Angle

    Kurt Angle explained that he wants people dealing with similar issues to take inspiration from his own journey and know that they can also get their life in order if they try:

    “I am a pretty open book about my life. I want to share that with people to hopefully give them motivation to go ahead and get their lives in order if it has turned into a mess.

    I tell them my story and how I have been clean and sober for more than 14 years. I get a lot of great responses. I am just happy to be able to motivate people to better their lives.”

    The wrestling legend had recently detailed his mindset during those times and opened up about the passing of his sister due to drug overdose. You can check out his comments on the matter here.

  • Kurt Angle Defends Hulk Hogan: \”He\’s An Incredible Human Being!\”

    The WWE Raw Netflix premiere on January 6, 2025, was a historic night for the company, marking the beginning of its partnership with the streaming giant. However, one of the biggest talking points from the event was the unexpected reaction Hulk Hogan received from the Los Angeles crowd. When the WWE Hall of Famer made his appearance, he was met with a chorus of boos, a stark contrast to the hero\’s welcome he typically received in decades past.

    Wrestling legend Kurt Angle weighed in on the incident during an interview with legendary wrestling journalist Bill Apter for WrestleBinge. Angle, a former Olympic gold medalist and WWE Champion, acknowledged Hogan’s legacy while addressing the crowd’s reaction.

    Kurt Angle’s Perspective

    Angle didn\’t seem surprised by the reaction but made it clear that Hogan’s status in the industry remains undisputed. He stated:

    “Let the fans do what they want to do. I mean, Hulk Hogan is a legend. You can’t take that away from him. He’s probably the most popular pro wrestler of all time. He’s an incredible human being, but sometimes politics gets in the way. That’s what happened.”

    Angle’s comments suggest that Hogan’s reception may have been influenced by factors outside of wrestling, possibly referring to past controversies that continue to affect the way fans perceive him.

    Wrestlers React to Hogan Getting Booed

    Kurt Angle isn’t the only one who has spoken about the incident. Several prominent wrestlers have shared their thoughts on why the Los Angeles crowd reacted the way they did.

    Seth Rollins’ Response

    Seth Rollins didn’t hold back when discussing the reaction to Hogan’s appearance. He expressed satisfaction with the crowd’s response, stating that people ultimately get the reaction they deserve when facing a live audience. While he acknowledged Hogan’s contributions to wrestling, Rollins emphasized that past actions have consequences and that Hogan has yet to fully take responsibility for some of the controversies surrounding him.

    The Undertaker Reacts

    Former The Undertaker joked about the backlash against Hogan, stating \”things come back\” and implying that karmic justice may be at play.

    Kevin Nash’s Perspective

    Kevin Nash, a long-time friend of Hogan, was surprised by the intensity of the boos. He noted that Hogan’s approach to the event may not have resonated with the Los Angeles audience. Nash also pointed out that Hogan’s physical condition made the appearance more challenging, as he has been dealing with severe back pain in recent years.

    Rob Van Dam’s Analysis

    Rob Van Dam took a different approach, questioning why the reaction became such a major talking point. He suggested that the situation gained traction because it seemed unplanned and went against WWE’s expectations. Van Dam also noted that Hogan has experienced multiple cycles of popularity and controversy throughout his career, indicating that this is just another phase in his storied legacy.

    Final Thoughts

    Hulk Hogan’s appearance at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere was meant to be a celebratory moment, but the reaction from the crowd highlighted the complicated relationship he has with today’s wrestling audience.

    While legends like Kurt Angle continue to respect his legacy, the strong reaction from fans and the varied responses from fellow wrestlers indicate that Hogan remains a polarizing figure in the industry.

    More from Kurt Angle about the Hulkster:

  • WWE Legend Contacted For Royal Rumble Appearance (Report)

    Kurt Angle might be one of the names making a surprise appearance at this weekend\’s Royal Rumble event from Indianapolis, Indiana.

    The Olympic Gold Medallist is already scheduled to be in the area. He has been announced as part of the WrestleCon convention alongside other legendary guests such as Sting, Ric Flair and Hacksaw Jim Duggan.

    Now Fightful Select is reporting that to people close to him, Angle has divulged that he has been contacted by WWE to participate in something for Saturday\’s Premium Live event.

    It\’s unknown what role the company is considering Angle for, but given his physical condition, it\’s likely that he\’ll be appearing in a non-wrestling role if he is indeed brought in for the PPV.

    Kurt Angle also recently explained that he is not interested in an extended role with the company so his appearance will be a one-off thing if it happens.

    The WWE Hall of Famer is not the only big name expected at the show. The company has already announced that Charlotte Flair will be making her in-ring return at the Premium Live Event after her year-long injury.

    Several NXT stars are also expected to be brought in for the show per reports. You can check out a list of the NXT names that might appear at the event here.

  • Kurt Angle Believes John Cena Is Deserving of The 17th World Title

    Kurt Angle believes John Cena is WWE\’s greatest star.

    Cena has announced that 2025 will be his last year as an active performer in wrestling. With his retirement tour officially kicking off earlier this month, many believe that he\’ll be headlining the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame. There are many names which are thrown around when it comes to the people who can induct John Cena, but very few of them have had the impact on Cena\’s career like Kurt Angle.

    The Olympic Gold Medallist was asked about the potential during his recent interview with Chris Van Vliet. He mentioned how there are many contenders for the spot, while throwing the name of Stephanie McMahon on the list as well:

    \”There are a lot of people that deserve to induct John. Randy Orton, who was his biggest competition, or his nemesis. But Stephanie McMahon, don’t forget that she’s the one that discovered his rapping ability, and she was a big fan of his, she really supported him quite often. But no I’d be honored to induct John Cena.\”

    The Greatest WWE Superstar of All Time: Kurt Angle

    Kurt Angle faced Cena in the latter\’s famous main roster debut match which kickstarted the Ruthless Aggression era of WWE. Angle would go on to face the Cenation Leader in dozens of other encounters in the next few years before his 2006 WWE departure, providing him invaluable in-ring experience and exposure on his way to becoming the face of the company.

    This solid foundation allowed Cena to launch what became one of the most successful runs for any pro wrestler in the history of the business. The former TNA Champion believes that John deserves to be called the greatest of all time for it:

    \”The one thing I want to say about him is he has shown that he is possibly the greatest WWE superstar of all time. Winning 16 World Heavyweight Titles in one company,

    Ric Flair won 16, but he won them in NWA and WCW and WWE and you can’t take that away from him, they were all major promotions. But to do it all in one company, that makes you that company’s greatest star. And I really believe that he deserves another title before he retires.”

    Opponents have continued to line up for John Cena in his final year of wrestling and names from around the wrestling world have expressed interest in a potential showdown with the wrestling veteran. This list includes a current world champion outside of the company. You can check out more about it here.

  • Kurt Angle Reflects on Addiction, Recovery, and Leaving a Lasting Legacy

    On the latest edition of the Insight podcast, WWE/TNA Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently opened up about his battles with addiction, his road to recovery, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. After joining WWE in 1999, Angle quickly became one of the promotion\’s top stars, though painkiller addiction later in his career plagued the Olympic Gold Medalist for years.

    The Destructive Grip of Addiction

    At the height of his addiction, Angle’s reliance on painkillers became overwhelming. Like many wrestlers, Angle began using painkillers to manage injuries sustained from years in the ring. However, the pressures of maintaining a high-performance career in the ring quickly led to Angle abusing painkillers.

    “I was taking 65 painkillers a day, about 2,200 pills a month. My addiction overtook my life.\”

    His addiction not only jeopardized his career but also strained his personal life. Angle revealed that the turning point came in 2012 when his wife, Giovanna, issued an ultimatum that saved his life: “Go to rehab, or I’m taking the kids and leaving.”

    Kurt Angle Reflects on Career, Wishes He’d Retired a Decade Earlier

    A Life-Altering Decision

    Confronted with the possibility of losing his family, Angle knew he had to change. With his wife\’s ultimatum, Angle entered rehab, marking the beginning of his journey toward sobriety. Reflecting on the experience, Angle shared credit to his family for making him change. “It wasn’t just about me anymore. I had to fight for them.” Since completing rehab, Angle has achieved an inspiring milestone: 14 years of sobriety. He considers this achievement to be the pinnacle of his life.

    “I’ve been clean and sober for 14 years now. That’s my greatest accomplishment,” he said.

    Rebuilding and Redefining His Legacy

    Angle’s sobriety not only allowed him to repair his personal relationships but also to rebuild his professional reputation. In the years following his recovery, the Hall of Famer has become an advocate for addiction awareness. He has used his platform to share his story, hoping to inspire others facing similar struggles to seek help.

    In 2016, Angle launched the Angle Strong brand to help those battle with addiction to substances. Looking back, Angle is grateful for the second chance given to him. For the Olympian, his true legacy lies not in his wrestling accolades but in his resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

    Kurt Angle Reflects on Legendary Rivals Chris Benoit and Brock Lesnar

    A Grateful Outlook on the Future

    Clean and sober with a reputation as a true great in the ring, Angle hopes that his story serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with addiction. “It’s never too late to change,” he said. For Kurt Angle, his greatest victory is not found in the wrestling ring but in his triumph over addiction and his ability to reclaim his life.

    Check out the full interview:

  • Kurt Angle Reflects on Legendary Rivals Chris Benoit and Brock Lesnar

    Rivalries are the heart of professional wrestling, creating unforgettable moments that define careers. During a discussion with Chris Van Vliet for Insight, WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle recently reflected on some of his most iconic opponents, shedding light on the matches and competitors who pushed him to his limits and cemented his legacy.

    From his unparalleled chemistry with Chris Benoit to his physically grueling battles with Brock Lesnar, Angle’s reflections offer a deep dive into what made these rivalries legendary.

    Chris Benoit: A Rivalry of Intensity and Skill

    Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit shared a rivalry marked by unparalleled intensity and technical brilliance. Their match at Royal Rumble 2003 is often regarded as one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time. Angle, too, holds this encounter in high regard, calling it “the greatest wrestling match of all time.”

    “Chris Benoit was like wrestling my twin,” Angle shared. “The intensity we brought out of each other was unmatched.”

    Despite Benoit’s controversial legacy, Angle emphasizes the respect they shared in the ring. Their chemistry was rooted in their similar styles, with both being technical masters who elevated each other during every clash.

    Brock Lesnar: Brutality and Respect

    https://media.sescoops.com/uploads/2025/01/\"Kurt
    Photo: WWE

    Another rivalry that defined Angle’s career was with Brock Lesnar, one of the most dominant athletes in WWE history. Known for their intense physical matches, including the main event of WrestleMania XIX, the two shared a relationship built on mutual respect and toughness. Angle recalled the toll their battles took on his body, revealing:

    “Brock Lesnar broke my neck twice. But I called both those spots, so I don’t blame him.”

    Despite the injuries, Angle has always admired Lesnar’s raw power and athleticism. Their matches weren’t just about brute strength; they combined storytelling and technical prowess, creating some of the most memorable moments in WWE history.

    Other Iconic Matches and Dream Opponents

    While Benoit and Lesnar were two of Angle’s defining rivals, other opponents also shaped his career. His emotional match against Eddie Guerrero at WrestleMania 20 remains a fan favorite, showcasing Guerrero’s charisma and Angle’s versatility. Angle also expressed admiration for wrestlers he never got to face, including Bret Hart, whom he regards as a dream opponent.

    “Bret was the kind of wrestler who could adapt to anyone. I wish I had the chance to step in the ring with him,” Angle shared.

    How Rivals Shaped His Legacy

    Looking back, Kurt Angle credits his greatest rivals for pushing him to his peak as a performer. Whether it was the raw intensity of his matches with Chris Benoit, the physical toll of facing Brock Lesnar, or the storytelling brilliance of his clash with Eddie Guerrero, these rivalries helped define one of the greatest wrestling careers of all time.

    Through it all, Angle’s ability to connect with his opponents—and with fans—solidifies his place as one of wrestling’s all-time greats.

    Check out the full interview:

  • Kurt Angle Reflects on Career, Wishes He\’d Retired a Decade Earlier

    Kurt Angle recently opened up about his career which he wishes he had ended his in-ring career a decade earlier. On the Insight podcast, the Olympic gold medalist admitted that continuing to wrestle into his 40s took a toll on his body and affected the way he wanted fans to remember him.

    \”I wish I would have finished my career in WWE 10 years shorter in WWE or TNA… So in other words, instead of 20 years, I think 10 would have been enough and I think I would have been okay.\”

    Instead of retiring in 2009, which would\’ve marked a decade since his Survivor Series 1999 debut, Angle wrestled for another ten years before his final match at WrestleMania 35 in 2019. On the podcast, Angle reflected on watching his matches and knowing he had to go.

    \”I didn\’t like what I saw. I didn\’t want the fans remembering me as a broken down Kurt Angle. I wanted them to remember me when I was in my prime.\”

    Had Angle retired when he wishes, fans would\’ve lost out on much of the Olympian\’s career in TNA Wrestling. In 2017, Angle returned to action as part of WWE and would be part of Ronda Rousey\’s debut match the following year. During his return, would work with names including The Shield, Chad Gable, and Baron Corbin.

    Kurt Angle Believes Final Match Was A Waste, Baron Corbin Responds

    While Angle may have regrets about how long he stayed active, his legacy as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time remains intact. Fans will always remember the intensity, passion, and dedication he brought to the squared circle with many still regarding Angle as the greatest wrestling athlete of all time.

  • Kurt Angle Is Done with WWE Roles: \”I Don\’t Need To Do That Anymore\”

    Kurt Angle enjoyed an illustrious career, but it may be a very long time before fans see him in any capacity in pro wrestling again. During an appearance on Story Time with Dutch Mantell, Angle was asked about a potential non-active role with WWE, and shared that he\’s in no rush to do more with WWE or any other promotion.

    \”I’m at a point in life where I’m okay. I don’t need to do that anymore. I don’t need to prove who I was or add anything to my legacy.\”

    Angle has not competed in a wrestling match in close to six years, with his final bout taking place against Baron Corbin at WrestleMania 35 in 2019. Since then, he has made a handful of guest appearances for WWE, but hasn\’t had an official on-screen role with the promotion. His most recent appearance for WWE came at the Raw is XXX in January 2023.

    Though Kurt\’s days in the ring are over, the Olympian remains active. Currently, two biopics are in the works about Angle\’s life and career. The Olympian recently shared on Talk Is Jericho that the first film will document his journey to Olympic success while the second will focus on his career in professional wrestling. Though neither film has received a release date, fans are excited to see the WWE/TNA Hall of Famer\’s life and career brought to the big screen.

    Kurt Angle Laments WWE Wasting Baron Corbin After Retirement Match

  • Kurt Angle Jokes Vince McMahon’s Afterlife ‘Won’t Be Heavenly’

    Kurt Angle recently joked that an eternity of hellfire and brimstone awaits his former boss Vince McMahon given the billionaire\’s behavior. Reflecting on his time working with the former WWE CEO, Angle shared a damning assessment during a conversation with Inside the Ropes.

    \”He does some crazy sh*t, and for a guy who’s the owner and CEO of a company, it’s like, ‘What the f**k, man? You’re the boss. You can’t be doing this stuff.’\”

    Angle also suggested that McMahon’s actions won’t go unpunished in the afterlife, adding, \”He’s going to hell when he dies.\” During the interview though, Angle also praised McMahon\’s work ethic that turned WWE into the premiere name in professional wrestling. The Olympic Gold Medalist also commended McMahon\’s mind for the business that allowed him to fend off rivals, including WCW.

    McMahon’s legacy has faced intense scrutiny in recent years, particularly following the hush money scandal of 2022 and the lawsuit filed by Janel Grant earlier this year. The allegations against McMahon extend beyond Grant’s case. He is also named in a separate lawsuit alleging he was aware of the sexual abuse of underage ‘ring boys’ by former WWE employee Mel Phillips but failed to intervene. This lawsuit, brought by five anonymous former ring boys, also names Linda McMahon, WWE, and TKO Group Holdings.

    Despite the ongoing legal battles, McMahon has plans to launch a new film and TV production company. However, it appears unlikely that the 79-year-old billionaire will return to the world of professional wrestling promotion anytime soon. Stay tuned to SEScoops for updates on Vince McMahon’s legal and professional developments, as Kurt Angle suggests that the pearly gates may not be in his future.

  • Kurt Angle Won\’t Return for John Cena’s Retirement Tour

    Kurt Angle is one of John Cena’s most iconic rivals, but the Olympic Gold Medalist has confirmed he won’t be stepping back into the ring for Cena’s highly anticipated 2025 retirement tour.

    Angle and Cena shared the ring nearly 100 times between 2003 and 2006, crafting a storied rivalry that fans still celebrate today. Their last encounter occurred at Survivor Series 2017, where Team RAW (Braun Strowman, Finn Balor, Kurt Angle, Samoa Joe, and Triple H) triumphed over Team SmackDown (John Cena, Randy Orton, Shane McMahon, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Bobby Roode).

    As Cena prepares for his final year as an active competitor, many wrestlers have expressed interest in facing him one last time to etch their names in history. However, Angle will not be among them.

    “No. No, listen, my body … I have knee replacements, I had five neck surgeries, I had my back surgery last year. I have to have shoulder replacements. I am in no condition to be getting in the ring and wrestling… I don’t think I can get in the ring. I can probably get in the ring and wrestle, but I don’t want to take the chance of getting injured.”

    – Kurt Angle on the possibility of wrestling John Cena in 2025 (Sports Illustrated)

    Angle’s final match took place five years ago at WrestleMania 35, where he faced Baron Corbin in a losing effort. Reflecting on that bout in a recent interview, Angle expressed frustration with how WWE squandered Corbin, especially after he put the younger star over during his farewell match.

    Meanwhile, John Cena has a packed schedule as he approaches his retirement. He is slated to appear at the WWE Raw Netflix premiere on January 6 and has already announced himself as the first entrant in the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble Match, scheduled for February 1.

  • Baron Corbin Responds To Kurt Angle Lamenting WWE Wasting His Career Despite WrestleMania 35 Win

    Former WWE star Baron Corbin recently responded to WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle and he wished that he could make him proud.

    \’The Lone Wolf\’ emerged victorious over the Olympic gold medalist at WrestleMania 35 in the legend\’s farewell match. Corbin was expected to gain momentum following the win, especially after he won the King of the Ring that year. However, things went south for him and he was ultimately released this month.

    During a recent interview, Angle lamented how WWE handled Corbin\’s career since his win in Angle’s retirement match. The former World Champion felt his retirement match against Corbin was wasted as it didn\’t benefit Corbin\’s career.

    Taking to social media, Baron Corbin addressed Angle\’s comments and wrote that the win was one of the reasons he wished to have become world champion. He said it would honor what Angle did for him. Baron Corbin further expressed his regret for how things didn\’t work out but appreciated Angle for his help. Check out his Tweet below:

    Corbin’s career received a little push when he arrived in WWE NXT last year. He had a great run on the developmental brand and even won the NXT Tag Team Championships with Bron Breakker. However, WWE decided not to renew his contract when it expires. Corbin had previously said that WWE ‘fumbled the bag’ by releasing him.