The Wrestling Discussion Thread


AEW Fight Forever Review by IGN, do you guys think it's fair ?

Reviews have been mixed to positive, I think the fan response has been a bit better compared to critics

Yes I've been trying to join. But the verification method is odd. My Pakistani simcard isn't working here and I am not getting the verification code. I'll try again tonight.
 

AEW Fight Forever Review by IGN, do you guys think it's fair ?

Reviews have been mixed to positive, I think the fan response has been a bit better compared to critics

These released are prices crazy I remember when they used to be way cheaper, doesn’t surprise me when emulation is preferred
 
MITB this weekend, the card is not spectacular outside the gimmick matches but it should deliver on the night
 
MITB this weekend, the card is not spectacular outside the gimmick matches but it should deliver on the night

Here's hoping our boy LA Knight wins the MITB. I know Priest is a hot favorite but they really need to pull the trigger on Knight. The crowd loves him and he basically got over on his own personality. Not to mention, he is great in the ring.
 
While I am no longer a hardcore wrestling fan that I used to be as a child, this news of Bray Wyatt's passing has left me feeling devasted. The last time a wrestler dying hit me this hard was when Eddie Guerrero died in 2005. This is tough to take.

RIP Bray Wyatt and condolences and prayers to his loved ones.

Also, RIP Terry Funk!
 
And they continue to drop like flies. The number of premature deaths in pro wrestling is absolutely shocking.
 
Extremely sad news. SRS reported that Bray had been dealing with post covid heart issues (probably myocarditis). He was getting better but suffered cardiac arrest unexpectedly today.
Regarding Terry Funk, his terminal dementia diagnosis had been well known and was living in a nursing facility for over a year. The style of work he did (those violent hardcore matches), not surprising that he ended up with brain damage, but still he got to live over the average expected age of men.
 
Three-time WWE world champion Bray Wyatt has died at the age of 36.

The wrestler had been dealing with an undisclosed health issue that had kept him out of the ring since February, but his death was characterised as sudden by his family.

The news was announced by WWE content officer Triple H, who posted on social media that Wyatt, real name Windham Rotunda, had "unexpectedly passed".

Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock, was among those paying tribute to the star.

Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Johnson said he was "heartbroken" and had "always had tremendous respect and love" for the wrestler.

"Loved his presence, promos, in ring work and connection with @WWE universe," he wrote. "Very unique, cool and rare character, which is hard to create in our crazy world of pro wrestling."

WWE commentator Mick Foley added: "I thought so highly of Bray Wyatt... He was a true visionary; one of the most compelling presences that wrestling has ever seen."
 
Sheik Adnan Al-Kaissie (AKA General Adnan) has sadly passed away at the age of 84.

WWE confirmed Adnan's passing, writing: "WWE is saddened to learn that Adnan Al-Kaissie, known to sports-entertainment fans as Billy White Wolf, Sheik Adnan Al-Kaissy and General Adnan, passed away on Sept. 6 at 84."

Al-Kaissie was born in Baghdad, Iraq but moved to the United States in the 1950s to play American Football. He first moved to Houston before settling at Oklahoma State, where he became an amateur wrestler. Al-Kaissie then transitioned to pro wrestling in the late 1950s, first wrestling as the Native American character Billy White Wolf.


Cultaholic.com
 
WWE and UFC have completed a £17.3bn merger and launched under a new name, TKO.

UFC owners Endeavour Group Holdings control 51% of the new public trading company, TKO Group Holdings, while WWE shareholders have 49%.

The business is led by Endeavour chief executive Ari Emanuel.

"The creation of TKO marks an exciting new chapter for UFC and WWE as leaders in global sports and entertainment," said Emanuel.

"With UFC and WWE under one roof, we will provide unrivalled experiences for more than a billion passionate fans worldwide."

Dana White has become the UFC's new CEO and Vince McMahon has been appointed as TKO's new executive chairman.

In a statement to announce the completion of the merger, TKO said: "TKO brings together UFC, the world's premier mixed martial arts organisation, and WWE, an integrated media organisation and the recognised global leader in sports entertainment, to create a new premium sports and entertainment company serving more than one billion young and diverse fans, reaching viewers in 180 countries, and producing more than 350 annual live events."

McMahon, whose January return to the WWE board followed his 2022 retirement amid misconduct claims, added: "This is the culmination of a decades-long partnership between Endeavor and WWE across strategic initiatives including talent representation and media rights.

"Given our collaborative, trusted relationship and Endeavor's incredible track record of success growing UFC, we believe WWE is optimally positioned for future growth and success as part of TKO.

"Our focus remains on delivering for our fans across the globe as we take the business to the next level alongside UFC and Endeavor."

WWE has a global reach and fanbase. The company had more than 16 billion social media video views in the final quarter of 2022. It has nearly 94 million YouTube subscribers and has more than 20 million followers on TikTok.

Five of its female wrestlers are in the world's top 15 most-followed female athletes across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, led by former UFC fighter Ronda Rousey, who has 36.1 million followers.

BBC
 
So Vince McMahon relinquishes majority control of WWE, as they merge with UFC.

Will this have any tangible effects on the product? From what I heard, HHH is still in charge of Creative.
 
Whether you love or hate Vince, one can not deny his impact on professional wrestling. He had been in control of WWE since 1982, and in his 40+ years of being the head of WWE, he changed the landscape of professional wrestling.

Thank you Vince!
 
Reports suggest Cristiano Ronaldo might make his WWE debut alongside John Cena in November at Crown Jewel show in Saudi Arabia.

[talkSPORT]
 
RAW Confirmed Matches (December 4, 2023)

  • Seth “Freakin” Rollins defends World Heavyweight Title against Jey Uso
  • Drew McIntyre vows to knock Sami Zayn with a Claymore
  • Shayna Baszler takes on Nia Jax
  • Kayden Carter and Katana Chance contend with Tegan Nox and Natalya
  • The Creed Brothers to battle “Dirty” Dom and JD McDonagh of The Judgment Day
  • Cody Rhodes to clash with Shinsuke Nakamura
 
With Orton and CM Punk both back at the same time, they have my attention again :afridi Gotta tune in for Rumble season!
 
RAW Confirmed Matches (December 11, 2023)

  • Cody Rhodes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Jey Uso
  • Rhea Ripley vs. Maxxine Dupri (Non-Title Bout)
  • Becky Lynch calls out Nia Jax
  • CM Punk returns
 
Exclusive update on WWE WrestleMania plan for Roman Reigns

Roman Reigns has an ultimate part-time schedule at this point. Any match for the Tribal Chief is a rare occasion, as Undisputed Universal Champion, he doesn't warm up for a match on a regular basis, and that has caused him to miss some big events. It appears that he won't be making a very important trip for WWE in May.

Backlash is set to be the inaugural WWE premium live event hosted in France at the LDLC Arena in Lyon-Decines on Saturday, May 4th. The preceding night, WWE will broadcast SmackDown from the LDLC Arena, marking the first airing of SmackDown in France.

Roman Reigns doesn't appear to be making that trip to France with the rest of the SmackDown roster, because he's not currently advertised for the show.

Roman Reigns Missing From WWE Backlash Poster. The official poster for WWE Backlash France has been released, featuring a lineup of wrestling talent including World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins, Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley, Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, and other WWE Superstars.

Notably, Roman Reigns is missing from the poster, sparking speculation about his potential absence from the event. It's unclear how WWE will write things for Backlash without Roman Reigns, but they've arranged plenty of premium live events without The Tribal Chief already.

Source : SESCOOPS
 
SmackDown Confirmed Matches (December 15, 2023)
  • Kevin Owens vs. Austin Theory
  • Grayson Waller vs. Carmelo Hayes
  • Roman Reigns makes his triumphant return
 
SmackDown Results (December 15, 2023)

U.S. Title Contender Tournament

Carmelo Hayes vs. Grayson Waller
Winner and ADVANCING in the tournament: Carmelo Hayes

U.S. Title Contender Tournament
Kevin Owens vs. Austin Theory
Winner and ADVANCING in the tourney: Kevin Owens

The Kabuki Warriors vs. Michin & Zelina Vega
Winners: The Kabuki Warriors

Randy Orton vs. Jimmy Uso
Winner: Randy Orton
 
MATT RIDDLE UNVEILS INTERESTING POST-WWE WRESTLING VENTURES

Matt Riddle became a controversial name in WWE because of his problematic actions outside the squared circle, which led to him getting released from the company. He is clearly setting up a busy 2024 as Riddle recently unveiled interesting plans for his pro wrestling career after his WWE tenure ended.

Matt Riddle officially confirmed WWE fired him back in September, and he almost immediately got interest from other wrestling promotions after his release. He also purchased new car and started his own business venture afterwards.

While speaking in interview with Muscle Man Malcolm during the Jake Paul vs Andre August boxing match, Matt Riddle talked about what plans he has now that his WWE career is over.

Matt Riddle made it clear that while he has MMA interests, pro wrestling is the way to go for him. Riddle then noted that he is interested in competing in New Japan Pro Wrestling somewhere down the line.

Source : Ringside News
 
RAW Confirmed Matches (December 18, 2023)
  • Undisputed Tag Team Titles: Finn Balor & Damian Priest (c) vs. Julius & Brutus Creed
  • Intercontinental Championship: Gunther (c) vs. The Miz
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles: Chelsea Green & Piper Niven (c) vs Kayden Carter & Katana Chance
  • Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre come face-to-face
 
It would be really interesting to see the Rollins and McIntyre segment.

What I would like is a Attitude Era style Storyline similar to the Rock being run over. This time, though, I’d like to see a giant monster truck run the entire mens roster over, and by the end of that CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Orton, Styles and Rhodes are still left alive.

I’d watch to reverse over Rollins repeatedly especially, sick of his drag queen gimmick; what a shambles.
 
What I would like is a Attitude Era style Storyline similar to the Rock being run over. This time, though, I’d like to see a giant monster truck run the entire mens roster over, and by the end of that CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Orton, Styles and Rhodes are still left alive.

I’d watch to reverse over Rollins repeatedly especially, sick of his drag queen gimmick; what a shambles.
Rollins cut the best promo of his career with Punk last week where he didn't come off as fake fired up.

Drew's character arc is extremely captivating.

Really liking Damian Priest slowly turning face.

Randy Orton is atm better than Cena in terms of consistency and likeability factor.
 
MATT RIDDLE UNVEILS INTERESTING POST-WWE WRESTLING VENTURES

Matt Riddle became a controversial name in WWE because of his problematic actions outside the squared circle, which led to him getting released from the company. He is clearly setting up a busy 2024 as Riddle recently unveiled interesting plans for his pro wrestling career after his WWE tenure ended.

Matt Riddle officially confirmed WWE fired him back in September, and he almost immediately got interest from other wrestling promotions after his release. He also purchased new car and started his own business venture afterwards.

While speaking in interview with Muscle Man Malcolm during the Jake Paul vs Andre August boxing match, Matt Riddle talked about what plans he has now that his WWE career is over.

Matt Riddle made it clear that while he has MMA interests, pro wrestling is the way to go for him. Riddle then noted that he is interested in competing in New Japan Pro Wrestling somewhere down the line.

Source : Ringside News
If Riddle had stayed off drugs and not made some weird choices off screen, he would still be getting a push.
 
What I would like is a Attitude Era style Storyline similar to the Rock being run over. This time, though, I’d like to see a giant monster truck run the entire mens roster over, and by the end of that CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Orton, Styles and Rhodes are still left alive.

I’d watch to reverse over Rollins repeatedly especially, sick of his drag queen gimmick; what a shambles.
Finn should have beaten Seth.
But now we know that Punk is taking the belt off him but we'll have to suffer Seth as champion till Mania.
 
Finn should have beaten Seth.
But now we know that Punk is taking the belt off him but we'll have to suffer Seth as champion till Mania.

I highly doubt it, Punk will get to main event but would shock me if he won. He has Hunter’s favour. They’ve approached this wrong, you need big names to make the title, it would have meant something more. Seth can’t carry the strap, Rhea has more of an aura them he does
 
Seth will lose the title to Punk and Roman is also going away as I can see that Randy is winning it against Roman.
 
I highly doubt it, Punk will get to main event but would shock me if he won. He has Hunter’s favour. They’ve approached this wrong, you need big names to make the title, it would have meant something more. Seth can’t carry the strap, Rhea has more of an aura them he does
Nah Seth may be Trips' golden boy but either Punk or Drew are dethroning him. Hunter isn't indispensable now considering Endeavor now owns WWE. He has no choice but to listen to the crowd.
 
MATT RIDDLE ADVERTISED FOR FIRST TELEVISED PRO WRESTLING GIG SINCE WWE RELEASE

WWE finally released Matt Riddle, terminating his contract due to series of incidents that strained his relationship with the company. Throughout his tenure, there were numerous instances of backstage issues, totaling more than two dozen, leading to a significant accumulation of heat. Despite these challenges, the name recognition associated with Matt Riddle still holds considerable value in the industry.

A lot of questions were out there about where Matt Riddle will go next. It appears that, as his non-compete clause ends today, he has his first televised appearance booked.

Advertisements in the Philadelphia area reveal an upcoming matchup at the Kings of Colosseum event scheduled for January 6th, 2024, at the 2300 Arena. Matt Riddle is a part of that advertisement.

The featured bout is set to showcase former WWE star Matt Riddle facing off against Jacob Fatu. Upon verification with sources affiliated with MLW, it has been confirmed that Riddle is poised to make his debut for the promotion on the specified date.

The future trajectory of Matt Riddle’s appearances remains uncertain, and it raises anticipation within the wrestling community. Given his marketable name and potential drawing power, there's keen interest in discovering which wrestling event or promotion will be fortunate to host him.

Source : Ringside News
 
WWE House Show Results From Las Vegas, NV 12/29/23
  • The O.C. (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson) defeated Grayson Waller & Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson & Elton Prince)
  • Butch defeated Austin Theory
  • Bobby Lashley defeated Cameron Grimes
  • Kevin Owens defeated Solo Sikoa in a last man standing match
  • The Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) (w/ Bobby Lashley) defeated The LWO (Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde)
  • Bianca Belair & Shotzi defeated WWE Women’s Champion IYO Sky & Bayley
  • LA Knight defeated Jimmy Uso in a steel cage match
 
WWE House Show Results From Las Vegas, NV 12/29/23
  • The O.C. (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson) defeated Grayson Waller & Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson & Elton Prince)
  • Butch defeated Austin Theory
  • Bobby Lashley defeated Cameron Grimes
  • Kevin Owens defeated Solo Sikoa in a last man standing match
  • The Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) (w/ Bobby Lashley) defeated The LWO (Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde)
  • Bianca Belair & Shotzi defeated WWE Women’s Champion IYO Sky & Bayley
  • LA Knight defeated Jimmy Uso in a steel cage match
Seems like AJ is working as a face in house shows. His heel turn has been poorly done.
 
Drew McIntyre is currently the best character in WWE with the most logical character arc. He isn't really a true heel. Most of his anger and frustrations have looked justfied. You really get a sympathetic element in his story from his point of view. And he's portrayed that role incredibly well. His promos have been great. His matches are always full of effort and energy.
Think Miz calling Drew and Cody Batman and Superman of WWE respectively is going to be a big story in future.
If it wasn't for Punk returning, i'd have had Drew winning the Rumble and winning the title from Rollins at Mania. Drew can carry the belt much much better than Rollins has done in his 3 runs as a face champ (all 3 have been massive downers)
 
WWE RAW Card for January 1st, 2024 Episode:

WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins (c) vs. Drew McIntyre
WWE Women’s World Championship: Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Ivy Nile
Becky Lynch vs. Nia Jax
#1 Contenders match for Women’s Tag Team Titles: Tegan Nox and Natalya vs. Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark
 
SmackDown Results: Jan. 5, 2024

  • Kevin Owens def. Santos Escobar to win the U.S. Title Tournament
  • IYO SKY def. Michin to retain the WWE Women’s Title
  • Tyler Bate & Butch def. Pretty Deadly
  • Roman Reigns ensured Randy Orton vs. LA Knight vs. AJ Styles ended in controversy
 

WWE RAW RESULTS FOR JANUARY 8, 2024​

  • Tommaso Ciampa def. Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champion Finn Bálor
  • Kofi Kingson vs. Ludwig Kaiser went to a DCO
  • Kayden Carter and Katana Chance def. Chelsea Green and Piper Niven to retain the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship
  • The Miz def. JD McDonagh
  • Ivar def. Otis
  • “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes def. Shinsuke Nakamura in a Street Fight
 

WWE RAW RESULTS FOR JANUARY 8, 2024​

  • Tommaso Ciampa def. Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champion Finn Bálor
  • Kofi Kingson vs. Ludwig Kaiser went to a DCO
  • Kayden Carter and Katana Chance def. Chelsea Green and Piper Niven to retain the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship
  • The Miz def. JD McDonagh
  • Ivar def. Otis
  • “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes def. Shinsuke Nakamura in a Street Fight
was a very good edition of raw
 
Taker recently started doing his lists of mt rushmore. 4 of various categories.

Saw his mt rushmore of small guys.
his four guys were: Eddie Gurrero, Chris Benoit, Kurt Angle and AJ Styles.
A lot of people pointed out the absence of rey mysterio. but to me the more obvious exclusion was of Daniel Bryan. (if Taker rates AJ better than Rey and Bryan, then AJ is definitely something special.

Another rushmore of his was, people with mic skills
His four were: Arn Anderson, Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair and The Rock.

He seems like a guy with 80s at his yardstick. Ric, Dwayne and Dusty being there was pretty logical. But Arn Anderson for me was the outlier.

@shaz619 what's your opinion?
 
Taker recently started doing his lists of mt rushmore. 4 of various categories.

Saw his mt rushmore of small guys.
his four guys were: Eddie Gurrero, Chris Benoit, Kurt Angle and AJ Styles.
A lot of people pointed out the absence of rey mysterio. but to me the more obvious exclusion was of Daniel Bryan. (if Taker rates AJ better than Rey and Bryan, then AJ is definitely something special.

Another rushmore of his was, people with mic skills
His four were: Arn Anderson, Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair and The Rock.

He seems like a guy with 80s at his yardstick. Ric, Dwayne and Dusty being there was pretty logical. But Arn Anderson for me was the outlier.

@shaz619 what's your opinion?
Taker knows his wrestling history. The man is a true student of the game.

I would personally replace Stone Cold Steve Austin with Arn Anderson and for the smaller guys, I would replace Mysterio with Benoit.
 
Taker recently started doing his lists of mt rushmore. 4 of various categories.

Saw his mt rushmore of small guys.
his four guys were: Eddie Gurrero, Chris Benoit, Kurt Angle and AJ Styles.
A lot of people pointed out the absence of rey mysterio. but to me the more obvious exclusion was of Daniel Bryan. (if Taker rates AJ better than Rey and Bryan, then AJ is definitely something special.

Another rushmore of his was, people with mic skills
His four were: Arn Anderson, Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair and The Rock.

He seems like a guy with 80s at his yardstick. Ric, Dwayne and Dusty being there was pretty logical. But Arn Anderson for me was the outlier.

@shaz619 what's your opinion?

AJ deserves his due, tbh both Bryan and Rey get their plaudits rightly but AJ deserves more appreciation, a once a generation talent. Rey redefined Lucha globally and Bryan was technically innovative.

Yeah he grew up idolising those guys, am not surprised he said Arn due to his aura and charisma, he has had similar impact on others and for his work backstage
 
AJ deserves his due, tbh both Bryan and Rey get their plaudits rightly but AJ deserves more appreciation, a once a generation talent. Rey redefined Lucha globally and Bryan was technically innovative.

Yeah he grew up idolising those guys, am not surprised he said Arn due to his aura and charisma, he has had similar impact on others and for his work backstage
I think AJ doesn't get the adulation he deserves. It's usually Bryan who gets all the plaudits for being the best technical wrestler and Rey being a trail blazer for lucha libre style. AJ for me is the complete wrestler that can just about wrestle every single style and do it pretty well. In addition, he has the history of being a safe worker and not being injury prone.

Looking now at all the brainless lucha wrestlers these days, that style really pisses me off.
 

WWE RAW January 15, 2024: Confirmed Matches​


  • WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins vs Jinder Mahal
  • The Miz & R-Truth vs. Finn Balor & Damian Priest
  • #DIY vs. DJ McDonagh & Dominik Mysterio
  • GUNTHER Returns
 
What's with Hulk Hogan and his relentless lying and embellishing of stories ? It's got to the point of parody, and what's worse is most are easily debunkable !

Here's one I just heard now. Hogan claimed he wrestled Andre at WM3 (which was 1987) and "two days later" Andre passed away. Eh ? Even a child can Google search to find Andre died in January 1993 !

I just laughed so hard to the point of tears.

If Hogan was wised up to cricket, he probably would claim he gave Imran Khan the idea for the cornered tigers t-shirt.
 

Rumor Roundup (Jan. 17, 2024): Brock Lesnar plans, WWE Raw booking, Dakota Kai, more​

Speculating on the rumors surrounding pro wrestling is a favored pastime of many fans, perhaps second only to actually watching the matches. In this daily column, we take a look at the latest rumors being churned out by the pro wrestling rumor mill.

Important reminder: Rumors are just that — rumors. None of this has been confirmed as fact, it’s just circulating around the pro wrestling rumor mill. We track rumor accuracy in a weekly feature called Rumor Look Back you can find here. Remember, take it all with a grain of salt.

Rumors for the Day:
On Wrestling Observer Radio, there was speculation that GUNTHER vs. Brock Lesnar could be the plan for WrestleMania 40.

Fightful Select notes that WWE never gave any real consideration to having Jinder Mahal win the world heavyweight championship from Seth Rollins on Raw this week. Further, a Damian Priest cash-in was never happening either, although it was teased yet again.

During a live stream on Twitch recently, Dakota Kai told fans she’s yet to receive medical clearance, despite how well she’s moving around these days.

Dave Meltzer said on WOR that Giulia never got a contract offer from AEW “at least as of a couple weeks ago” going on to say “for whatever reason, they didn’t go after her. I don’t know why.”

Source : SB Nation
 
I think AJ doesn't get the adulation he deserves. It's usually Bryan who gets all the plaudits for being the best technical wrestler and Rey being a trail blazer for lucha libre style. AJ for me is the complete wrestler that can just about wrestle every single style and do it pretty well. In addition, he has the history of being a safe worker and not being injury prone.

Looking now at all the brainless lucha wrestlers these days, that style really pisses me off.

Lucha now is basically the equivalent of adult pornography. That’s how badly its image has been maligned.

Lucha is not just high spots, a fundamental requirement is to develop your technical ability and wrestling IQ.
 
Lucha now is basically the equivalent of adult pornography. That’s how badly its image has been maligned.

Lucha is not just high spots, a fundamental requirement is to develop your technical ability and wrestling IQ.
The lucha wrestling that features prominently on tv these days is. I have no idea how it is in CMLL or AAA.
 
What's with Hulk Hogan and his relentless lying and embellishing of stories ? It's got to the point of parody, and what's worse is most are easily debunkable !

Here's one I just heard now. Hogan claimed he wrestled Andre at WM3 (which was 1987) and "two days later" Andre passed away. Eh ? Even a child can Google search to find Andre died in January 1993 !

I just laughed so hard to the point of tears.

If Hogan was wised up to cricket, he probably would claim he gave Imran Khan the idea for the cornered tigers t-shirt.
His lies are pretty funny these days tbh. He also said he was the one who told WWE to sign Brock and probably said something similar about him in regards to his UFC career as well.
 
What's with Hulk Hogan and his relentless lying and embellishing of stories ? It's got to the point of parody, and what's worse is most are easily debunkable !

Here's one I just heard now. Hogan claimed he wrestled Andre at WM3 (which was 1987) and "two days later" Andre passed away. Eh ? Even a child can Google search to find Andre died in January 1993 !

I just laughed so hard to the point of tears.

If Hogan was wised up to cricket, he probably would claim he gave Imran Khan the idea for the cornered tigers t-shirt.

He has turned into the Donald Trump of wrestling, his impact can never be doubted but he is a walking/talking meme

He heroically rescued a family from a turned over car recently to :)
 
The lucha wrestling that features prominently on tv these days is. I have no idea how it is in CMLL or AAA.

In my opinion from the little I’ve seen of it, the old school of thought has declined.

Am afraid after the 90’s boom, they’ve failed to produce anything remotely close to Rey Mysterio, Gurrero family, Konnan or Ray Mendoza. I think Andrade is a special exception so there is some hope at least.
 
In my opinion from the little I’ve seen of it, the old school of thought has declined.

Am afraid after the 90’s boom, they’ve failed to produce anything remotely close to Rey Mysterio, Gurrero family, Konnan or Ray Mendoza. I think Andrade is a special exception so there is some hope at least.
Yes there are a few good wrestlers I have seen.
 

WWE SmackDown Results | January 19, 2024​

  • Legado Del Fantasmo def. LWO
  • Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate def. Pretty Deadly
  • Carter and Chance def. The Unholy Union | WWE Women’s Tag Titles
  • LA Knight def. AJ Styles by Disqualification
 

WWE RAW Card for January 22nd, 2024 Episode:​

  • Cody Rhodes and CM Punk face-to-face
  • Drew McIntyre vs. Damian Priest
  • Chad Gable vs. Ivar
  • Ivy Nile vs. Valhalla
  • Seth Rollins kicks off the show to address his future
  • The Miz vs. Dominik Mysterio
 
RAW has agreed a 10 year, live streaming deal, worth $5 billion with Netflix !!!!

The TV rights have been up in the air for a while, they’ve been clever bringing in Punk et al conveniently for the bidding wars.

This is staggering stuff, it’s fair to say, Nick Khan has taken the company to new heights financially speaking, I’ve not seen a bloke who is as slick and shrewd in a high level position since Vince himself.
 
AEW lifers having a big meltdown, they may yet agree a streaming deal with a competitor, but the product is the living embodiment of a sexually transmitted disease
 
How they fumbled the two guys who WWE are now presenting as their top draws is beyond me, and one of them hated the place more than anything, yet that toxic environment made the WWE set up an appealing option and it’s firing on all cylinders
 
Netflix will be the new home of the WWE for fans in the UK after striking a long-term agreement.

From January 2025, the streaming platform will be the home of Raw in the US, Canada, the UK and Latin America.

Netflix is set to become the new home of the WWE for fans around the world
2

Netflix is set to become the new home of the WWE for fans around the worldCredit: X - @TripleH
Outside the US, Netflix will also be the home of WWE Smackdown and NXT, as well as blockbuster events Wrestlemania, Summerslam and Royal Rumble which will all be available to view on Netflix.

This means that Netflix fans will be able to see stars such as Roman Reigns, CM Punk and even Logan Paul in action.

According to the Financial Times, the deal could be worth £3.93billion [$5billion] over the next 10 years.

TNT Sports is currently the home of the WWE in the UK, but that will change with this blockbuster deal coming into effect in 2025.

Ranking the top five greatest Royal Rumble matches in WWE history

'You have to be big' - Inside Edge’s body transformation at age 50 to play Greek god
The news comes on the same day that Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson was appointed to the board of directors at TKO, the company who own both the WWE and MMA.

TKO took ownership of the WWE last year when Vince McMahon sold the company

Speaking of the deal, TKO's president Mark Shapiro said: "This deal is transformative.

"It marries the can’t-miss WWE product with Netflix’s extraordinary global reach and locks in significant and predictable economics for many years.

Source: talkSPORT
 

WWE Monday Night RAW Results | January 22, 2024​

  • Imperium (Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci) vs. The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) went to a DCO in a Tag Team Match
  • Ivy Nile def. Valhalla
  • “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio def. The Miz
  • Ivar def. Chad Gable
  • Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark def. Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell in a Tag Team Match
  • Drew McIntyre def. Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champion “Señor Money in the Bank” Damian Priest
 
How they fumbled the two guys who WWE are now presenting as their top draws is beyond me, and one of them hated the place more than anything, yet that toxic environment made the WWE set up an appealing option and it’s firing on all cylinders
Edge in WWE (despite that wretched feud with Judgement Day) and AEW is a pretty big indicator of how AEW takes away the "grand" feeling of a wrestler's presence in their roster.
 
RAW has agreed a 10 year, live streaming deal, worth $5 billion with Netflix !!!!

The TV rights have been up in the air for a while, they’ve been clever bringing in Punk et al conveniently for the bidding wars.

This is staggering stuff, it’s fair to say, Nick Khan has taken the company to new heights financially speaking, I’ve not seen a bloke who is as slick and shrewd in a high level position since Vince himself.
And till a few years ago, he was the representative of Ariel Helwani. And now the guy is the president of WWE. A late bloomer.
 
John Cena finally reveals his WWE retirement timeline — and it’s coming fast

The 16-time world champion, who turns 47 this April, revealed for the first time during an interview with “Entertainment Tonight” that he plans to retire from the in-ring competition within the next three years.

Cena, who is promoting his new movie “Argylle,” acknowledged that he made a “promise to the consumer early on” to honor them spending their money on a quality product from him and that WWE has a ton of content right now.

I never wanted to go out there just for the sake of going out there,” Cena told ET. “And I’m gonna be 47 this year. I feel great. So inside I feel great, but I know what it takes to be a WWE performer night in and night out and I don’t ever wanna just go out there and do it to do it. I wanna have the passion — the same passion as the fanbase — and I wanna give them exactly what they give me. The miles on the speedometer say, ‘Hey, that’s gotta be done before 50.'”

During a separate interview with People last week, he noted that winding down his WWE career is something that has been on his mind for a while.

“I’ve got to admit when I hit the 45 mark, I had to begin to try to form an exit strategy and I’m trying to work on that currently,” Cena said.

The “Peacemaker” star has been a special attraction performer for WWE since around 2019 as his career took off in Hollywood.

Though has had at least one match for the company for 23 straight years, Cena has wrestled just nine times on TV for the company since 2019.

Cena, however, is coming off a two-half-month run with WWE in 2023 from September to November during the Hollywood actors and writers’ strikes.

“It’s tough to juggle both because, you know, when you’re filming Argylle, Matthew [Vaughn] won’t let you go do anything else because of insurance,” he told ET. “So as long as the phone keeps ringing and we’ve had some good opportunities here, I’ll kind of preserve that for as long as I can. But even coming back for these one-at-a-time things or short three-month periods, it takes its toll more and more and I’ve just had an incredibly fortunate run with my health. I feel great. I just want to continue to feel great the rest of my life.”

During that time he gave back to younger talent, losing to then-United States champion Austin Theory at WrestleMania 39, wrestling for the company in India and losing to up-and-coming star Solo Sikoa at Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia.

Cena left his WWE story off with his character uncertain if he could hang with the current stars after he hasn’t been booked to win a singles match since he beat Triple H at The Greatest Royal Rumble in April 2018.

After his loss to Sikoa in November, he and WWE teased that retirement is near, now Cena is officially saying the clock is ticking — and fast.

Though Cena’s not sure it will happen, he does have a venue he would consider retiring in.

“Fans in the UK, WWE fans, they’re the best and fans in London specifically they will let you know how they feel and I don’t think I’ll be able to choose my opponent but if I could choose a venue it’d be the O2 in London,” Cena said during an interview with the “The One Show” on BBC.

During an appearance on WWE’s “The Bump,” longtime WWE rival Randy Orton offered an idea for a dream match in the future where he faced Cena for the first time in a singles match with the world title on the line at WrestleMania.

Being able to revisit that after all this time, I think it’s not only something that I would want,” Orton said. “I think the fans would eat it up, too.”
 
WWE boss Vince McMahon quits after sex-trafficking lawsuit

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) boss Vince McMahon has quit in the wake of sex-trafficking allegations from a former employee.

Janel Grant alleges Mr McMahon and another ex-executive, John Laurinaitis, sexually assaulted and trafficked her to entice wrestling talent.

Mr McMahon, 78, said in a statement that he had made the decision to resign as executive chairman of TKO, the parent company of WWE.

He has denied the allegations.

"I stand by my prior statement that Ms Grant's lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth," Mr McMahon said in a statement on Friday.

He added: "Out of respect for the WWE Universe, the extraordinary TKO business and its board members and shareholders, partners and constituents, and all of the employees and Superstars who helped make WWE into the global leader it is today, I have decided to resign from my executive chairmanship and the TKO board of directors, effective immediately."

In a staff memo obtained by ESPN, WWE president Nick Khan shared that "Vince McMahon has tendered his resignation from his positions as TKO Executive Chairman and on the TKO Board of Directors".

"He will no longer have a role with TKO Group holdings or WWE."

Ms Grant, a former WWE employee, accused Mr McMahon and Mr Laurinaitis of trafficking her to other men "as a sexual pawn to entice world-famous wrestling talent". The BBC could not reach Mr Laurinaitis for comment.

Ms Grant was unemployed at the time of meeting Mr McMahon and was dealing with her deceased parent's bankruptcy.

The lawsuit alleges that Mr McMahon pressured her into a physical relationship, making her promises of a job at WWE.

According to the legal case, Ms Grant went on to work at WWE's headquarters in Connecticut between 2019 and 2022.

She says she felt trapped "in an impossible situation... submitting to Mr McMahon's sexual demands or facing ruin".

The lawsuit alleges Mr McMahon "expected and directed Ms Grant to engage in sexual activity at the WWE headquarters, even during working hours".

She also accuses both defendants of sexually assaulting her at WWE headquarters in Connecticut of June 2021.

Back in 2022, the WWE board announced an investigation over an alleged $3m (£2.5m) settlement between Mr McMahon and an ex-employee with whom he had a consensual affair.

The 78-year-old was replaced as acting chief executive and chairperson by his daughter. In January 2023, he returned as WWE chairperson after the investigation ended.

In Thursday's legal filing, Ms Grant called the WWE's special committee investigation "a sham" and accused the company of attempting to "sweep the matter under the rug". She says the committee never contacted her or requested documents from her.

Mr McMahon has overseen WWE's growth into a media juggernaut whose weekly content is broadcast in more than 180 countries and 30 languages.

BBC
 

WWE Royal Rumble 2024 Lineup:​

  • WWE Undisputed Universal Championship: Roman Reigns (c) vs. Randy Orton vs. AJ Styles vs. LA Knight
  • Men’s Royal Rumble match
  • Women’s Royal Rumble match
  • WWE United States Championship: Logan Paul (c) vs. Kevin Owens
Which match are you really looking forward to?
 
WWE boss Vince McMahon quits after sex-trafficking lawsuit

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) boss Vince McMahon has quit in the wake of sex-trafficking allegations from a former employee.

Janel Grant alleges Mr McMahon and another ex-executive, John Laurinaitis, sexually assaulted and trafficked her to entice wrestling talent.

Mr McMahon, 78, said in a statement that he had made the decision to resign as executive chairman of TKO, the parent company of WWE.

He has denied the allegations.

"I stand by my prior statement that Ms Grant's lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth," Mr McMahon said in a statement on Friday.

He added: "Out of respect for the WWE Universe, the extraordinary TKO business and its board members and shareholders, partners and constituents, and all of the employees and Superstars who helped make WWE into the global leader it is today, I have decided to resign from my executive chairmanship and the TKO board of directors, effective immediately."

In a staff memo obtained by ESPN, WWE president Nick Khan shared that "Vince McMahon has tendered his resignation from his positions as TKO Executive Chairman and on the TKO Board of Directors".

"He will no longer have a role with TKO Group holdings or WWE."

Ms Grant, a former WWE employee, accused Mr McMahon and Mr Laurinaitis of trafficking her to other men "as a sexual pawn to entice world-famous wrestling talent". The BBC could not reach Mr Laurinaitis for comment.

Ms Grant was unemployed at the time of meeting Mr McMahon and was dealing with her deceased parent's bankruptcy.

The lawsuit alleges that Mr McMahon pressured her into a physical relationship, making her promises of a job at WWE.

According to the legal case, Ms Grant went on to work at WWE's headquarters in Connecticut between 2019 and 2022.

She says she felt trapped "in an impossible situation... submitting to Mr McMahon's sexual demands or facing ruin".

The lawsuit alleges Mr McMahon "expected and directed Ms Grant to engage in sexual activity at the WWE headquarters, even during working hours".

She also accuses both defendants of sexually assaulting her at WWE headquarters in Connecticut of June 2021.

Back in 2022, the WWE board announced an investigation over an alleged $3m (£2.5m) settlement between Mr McMahon and an ex-employee with whom he had a consensual affair.

The 78-year-old was replaced as acting chief executive and chairperson by his daughter. In January 2023, he returned as WWE chairperson after the investigation ended.

In Thursday's legal filing, Ms Grant called the WWE's special committee investigation "a sham" and accused the company of attempting to "sweep the matter under the rug". She says the committee never contacted her or requested documents from her.

Mr McMahon has overseen WWE's growth into a media juggernaut whose weekly content is broadcast in more than 180 countries and 30 languages.

BBC
Heinous crimes if the reports are true.
 
Bayley wins the women’s royal rumble. I am glad for her. She is so underrated, in my opinion.
 
WWE boss Vince McMahon quits after sex-trafficking lawsuit

World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) boss Vince McMahon has quit in the wake of sex-trafficking allegations from a former employee.

Janel Grant alleges Mr McMahon and another ex-executive, John Laurinaitis, sexually assaulted and trafficked her to entice wrestling talent.

Mr McMahon, 78, said in a statement that he had made the decision to resign as executive chairman of TKO, the parent company of WWE.

He has denied the allegations.

"I stand by my prior statement that Ms Grant's lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth," Mr McMahon said in a statement on Friday.

He added: "Out of respect for the WWE Universe, the extraordinary TKO business and its board members and shareholders, partners and constituents, and all of the employees and Superstars who helped make WWE into the global leader it is today, I have decided to resign from my executive chairmanship and the TKO board of directors, effective immediately."

In a staff memo obtained by ESPN, WWE president Nick Khan shared that "Vince McMahon has tendered his resignation from his positions as TKO Executive Chairman and on the TKO Board of Directors".

"He will no longer have a role with TKO Group holdings or WWE."

Ms Grant, a former WWE employee, accused Mr McMahon and Mr Laurinaitis of trafficking her to other men "as a sexual pawn to entice world-famous wrestling talent". The BBC could not reach Mr Laurinaitis for comment.

Ms Grant was unemployed at the time of meeting Mr McMahon and was dealing with her deceased parent's bankruptcy.

The lawsuit alleges that Mr McMahon pressured her into a physical relationship, making her promises of a job at WWE.

According to the legal case, Ms Grant went on to work at WWE's headquarters in Connecticut between 2019 and 2022.

She says she felt trapped "in an impossible situation... submitting to Mr McMahon's sexual demands or facing ruin".

The lawsuit alleges Mr McMahon "expected and directed Ms Grant to engage in sexual activity at the WWE headquarters, even during working hours".

She also accuses both defendants of sexually assaulting her at WWE headquarters in Connecticut of June 2021.

Back in 2022, the WWE board announced an investigation over an alleged $3m (£2.5m) settlement between Mr McMahon and an ex-employee with whom he had a consensual affair.

The 78-year-old was replaced as acting chief executive and chairperson by his daughter. In January 2023, he returned as WWE chairperson after the investigation ended.

In Thursday's legal filing, Ms Grant called the WWE's special committee investigation "a sham" and accused the company of attempting to "sweep the matter under the rug". She says the committee never contacted her or requested documents from her.

Mr McMahon has overseen WWE's growth into a media juggernaut whose weekly content is broadcast in more than 180 countries and 30 languages.

BBC
Vince is a sick and disgusting individual. He should get the Benoit treatment, if these allegations are proven to be true.
 
Vince is a sick and disgusting individual. He should get the Benoit treatment, if these allegations are proven to be true.
Yeah, it is disgusting to even think about such stuff. Vince's career is pretty controversial and IMO, these allegations might have some facts as well. But until they are proved right, he is still not a criminal.
 
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Yeah, it is disgusting to even think about such stuff. Vince's career is pretty controversial and IMO, these allegations might have some facts as well.
I believe that he is guilty of what he has been accused of. But can it be proven? That is another question.

It is a sad end to his career and puts a massive stain on his legacy.
 
I believe that he is guilty of what he has been accused of. But can it be proven? That is another question.

It is a sad end to his career and puts a massive stain on his legacy.
Yeah, he built a company out of dust. You have to acknowledge this but these kind of allegation will put a dent in his legendary term as the chairman WWE.
 
I believe that he is guilty of what he has been accused of. But can it be proven? That is another question.

It is a sad end to his career and puts a massive stain on his legacy.
Everyone knows Vince was a pervert. He might end up settling the case outside or may even win it. But the thing is everyone will still have reservations about him that even then some of the stuff mentioned the in lawsuit might be true which makes him a detestable person especially for his age.
 

CM Punk training with Bron Breakker, Carmelo Hayes, Trick Williams and Lexis King(Brian Pillman Jr)

Very good to see the training side of things. WWE runs it like an institute and on most of the levels, it is quite professional. There's way lesser botches and horrible injuries happening in WWE than other promotions (esp indies)

Another good thing is to see Punk getting to teach the younger guys something he has been pretty vocal about wanting to do.
 
Everyone knows Vince was a pervert. He might end up settling the case outside or may even win it. But the thing is everyone will still have reservations about him that even then some of the stuff mentioned the in lawsuit might be true which makes him a detestable person especially for his age.
You knew that Vince was a messed up individual when he started having his “kiss my backside club” on live TV.
 

WWE Royal Rumble 2024 Results​

  • Bayley wins WWE Women’s Royal Rumble
  • Roman Reigns def. AJ Styles, LA Knight and Randy Orton | WWE Undisputed Universal Championship
  • Logan Paul def. Kevin Owens | WWE United States Championship
  • Cody Rhodes wins Men’s Royal Rumble
Which match you enjoyed the most?
 

WWE RAW Card for January 29th, 2024 Episode:​

  • WWE Intercontinental Championship: Gunther (c) vs. Kofi Kingston
  • Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles: Damian Priest and Finn Balor (c) vs. DIY
  • Jey Uso vs. Bronson Reed
  • Cody Rhodes will speak
  • The fallout from the Royal Rumble
 
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