WWE SmackDown Preview 2/6/2026

WWE SmackDown airs live tonight on the USA Network in the United States and on Netflix for international fans at 8:00 pm ET from the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

  • Fallout from Royal Rumble
  • Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Tama Tonga
  • Women’s Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan announced on this past Monday’s Raw that she will be SmackDown, as she is still deciding if if she will challenge for the Women’s World Championship or the Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 42.
  • Royce Keys (FKA Powerhouse Hobbs) rumored to be appearing
  • United States Champion Carmelo Hayes will probably be having a open challenge match

TNA Parent Company Files Lawsuit Against Gail Kim Over Contract and Jurisdiction Dispute

A surprising and serious legal situation has emerged involving one of TNA Wrestling’s most iconic figures.

According to a report from PWInsider, TNA parent company Anthem Wrestling Exhibitions, LLC — operating under Anthem Sports & Entertainment — filed a lawsuit against TNA Hall of Famer Gail Kim on January 10 in Nashville’s Chancery Court. The filing comes after Kim notified the company that she believed she may have potential legal claims following her departure in March 2025.

The core issue centers on jurisdiction and classification. Anthem’s lawsuit is a preemptive move, asking the court to rule that any disputes between the company and Kim must be handled under Tennessee law, not Florida law. Kim had reportedly indicated that she may pursue claims under the Florida Private Whistleblower Act, though Anthem’s filing does not outline the specific allegations behind those potential claims.

Anthem argues that Kim’s contractual agreements clearly state Tennessee law governs any disputes. The company points to a Services Agreement signed in September 2022 that outlined Kim’s responsibilities in talent relations, match production, and performer services, along with helping identify new revenue and growth opportunities. While the agreement expired at the end of 2024, it was reportedly extended on a month-to-month basis before the relationship ended.

The filing also references a separate, non-exclusive Booking Agreement that allowed Kim to work for other promotions or entertainment projects, as long as they were not direct competitors to TNA. Anthem is emphasizing that both agreements classified Kim as an independent contractor rather than an employee.

To support that claim, Anthem notes that Kim was not eligible for employee benefits such as health insurance, pensions, workers’ compensation, or paid leave. The company also states that during her most recent run, Kim primarily worked remotely, did not have dedicated office space, and wrestled only once. Her outside television appearances on The Amazing Race Canada and The Traitors Canada were also cited as examples of her independence, along with the fact that she received 1099 tax forms for her compensation.

Anthem further states that Kim’s exit was part of a broader “strategic decision to restructure.” That restructuring reportedly included the non-renewal of contracts for Kim and two other independent contractors, as well as the termination of five employees. The filing also mentions that Anthony Ciccione, former President of the Sports Group for Anthem Sports & Entertainment, stepped down from his role in May 2025.

Based on all of this, Anthem is asking the court to rule that Kim does not have viable claims under the Florida Private Whistleblower Act, the Florida Civil Rights Act, or Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The company is also seeking reimbursement for legal fees and court costs.

The situation is especially notable given Kim’s legacy within TNA. She is widely viewed as a cornerstone of the Knockouts division, with her feud against Awesome Kong helping legitimize women’s wrestling in the company during its early years. Kim first debuted in TNA in 2005, returned in 2011 after a WWE run, and remained with the promotion until 2022 before transitioning into backstage roles. She was inducted into the TNA Hall of Fame in 2016, becoming the first woman to receive the honor.

After her departure, Kim publicly thanked fans and colleagues, emphasizing her pride in helping build the Knockouts division and making it clear she wasn’t done with wrestling altogether. She later revealed during a December 2025 fan Q&A that she had turned down a WWE offer, saying she “had to decline” despite wanting to accept.

As of now, court records do not show whether Kim has been formally served with the lawsuit, and no court dates have been scheduled. The situation remains fluid, but it’s a rare and uncomfortable development involving one of TNA’s most respected names.

AEW Dynamite Moment Goes Viral For “Fk ICE” Chants Overshadows Brody King’s Defeat of MJF – Ref Suggests He Waited To Ring Bell So Chant ‘Could Resonate’ –

On most nights, Brody King pinning AEW World Champion MJF in under two minutes would dominate the conversation coming out of AEW Dynamite. Instead, Wednesday’s show in Las Vegas is being remembered far more for what happened before the opening bell than the shock result that followed.

As MJF stood in the ring awaiting the start of the match, the crowd erupted into a loud and sustained “F**k ICE” chant aimed at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The chant immediately caught attention—not only because of its volume, but because it was allowed to continue uninterrupted until referee Bryce Remsburg finally rang the bell.

It turns out that delay wasn’t accidental.

In the early hours of Thursday morning, Remsburg responded on X to a viral clip of the moment, jokingly acknowledging his role in letting the chant breathe. “It seems like the referee may have waited to ring the bell so these could resonate longer?” Remsburg wrote. “Oh no. Whoops.”

Remsburg wasn’t the only one who appeared to step back and let the moment happen. On commentary, Tony Schiavone stopped speaking as the chant broke out, with Excalibur also staying silent until it ended. Notably, AEW made no visible effort to censor the profanity, which is often muted during live broadcasts when chants cross that line.

The chant itself reflects a broader wave of political protest that has recently surfaced within the wrestling world. ICE has faced heightened criticism following the reported deaths of two citizens in Minnesota involving ICE agents last month, and several wrestling personalities have used their platforms to speak out. WWE’s Becky Lynch previously made subtle comments aimed at the agency on social media, while former NXT General Manager Ava was far more direct in her criticism over the weekend.

Brody King, whose in-ring win was ultimately overshadowed, has been one of the most outspoken critics. He previously wore an “Abolish ICE” shirt during AEW Grand Slam: Mexico City and has helped raise funds for Minnesota families affected by ICE-related actions.

While King’s lightning-fast victory over MJF will still go down as a rare and surprising result, the night’s lasting image is the crowd-driven moment that AEW chose not to silence—adding another example of how wrestling crowds, and sometimes the performers themselves, continue to blur the line between the ring and real-world issues.

AEW referee Bryce Remsburg posted a follow up after receiving lot of attention:

“Will donate ALL proceeds from Cameos until 2/13 to Lancaster Neighbor Fund, who supports immigrants right in my city of welcome. Kindness onward.”

As of Now John Cena Not Expected for 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Induction — Stephanie McMahon Tapped as Headliner

John Cena may be officially retired, but fans hoping to see him resurface through a WWE Hall of Fame induction might need to be patient a little longer.

According to a recent report from WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, Cena is currently not listed internally for the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Despite his legendary status and career-ending match against Gunther last year, there’s no indication that WWE is planning to induct him in the upcoming class.

Instead, the report suggests that Stephanie McMahon is penciled in as the headline inductee for 2026. Notably, her induction is said to include an “Immortal Moments” component, highlighting her long-running influence on WWE both on-screen and behind the scenes. If accurate, it would make her the centerpiece of the ceremony rather than a traditional in-ring legend.

Cena, meanwhile, has remained largely out of the WWE spotlight since his retirement. After completing a brief media run, his only public appearance tied to wrestling was at a FAN EXPO event in January. With WrestleMania season approaching, some fans speculated that WWE might use the Hall of Fame as a way to bring him back into the fold — but that doesn’t appear to be the case for now.

It’s also worth noting that leading into his final match with Gunther, Cena reportedly wasn’t eager to frame the bout as a career retrospective. That mindset could play a role in WWE holding off on honoring him just yet, allowing more time before fully celebrating his legacy.

There’s little doubt that John Cena will eventually take his place in the WWE Hall of Fame. The question now isn’t if, but when — and based on the latest backstage chatter, 2026 likely won’t be that moment.

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT! Preview 2/5/2026

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT on AMC taped from the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

  • Daria Rae is set to address the upcoming No Surrender match, building the intensity as anticipation builds toward the event.
  • Tessa Blanchard in action
  • Trey Miguel in action
  • Elijah & Jade Stone vs. Mustafa Ali & Tasha Steelz
  • The Elegance Brand vs. Xia Brookside, Lei Ying Lee & Indi Hartwell
  • The Righteous in action

AJ Styles Finally Speaks After His WWE Retirement Match

AJ Styles’ loss at the 2026 Royal Rumble is still being talked about across the wrestling world. Few fans expected “The Phenomenal One” to fall in a career-on-the-line match, but GUNTHER did exactly that, putting Styles to sleep in a hard-hitting showdown that took place in Saudi Arabia. The moment felt final — especially when Styles lingered in the ring afterward, teasing the possibility of leaving his gloves behind.

But that moment never fully came.

Now, AJ Styles has finally addressed the emotional aftermath of that match and what it could mean for his future in WWE. Appearing on Stephanie McMahon’s What’s Your Story? podcast, the former WWE Champion explained why he ultimately chose not to leave his gloves in the ring — a longtime wrestling tradition signaling retirement.

Styles admitted he didn’t have a clear answer at the time, but his mindset was simple: never close the door completely. While he stopped short of confirming any kind of comeback, he emphasized that retirement in wrestling is rarely as final as it seems. According to Styles, everyone deserves at least one chance to return, even if that opportunity never materializes.

Perhaps the most interesting part of his comments involved family. Styles floated the idea that one day his son could step into the ring, and the possibility of tagging together — even just once — is something that keeps him from saying “never.” While he acknowledged that there will eventually be a moment when the gloves go on for good, he made it clear that he’s not rushing to define when that day comes.

For now, AJ Styles remains in a strange in-between space — not officially retired, but not actively competing either. Whether the Royal Rumble loss truly marked the end of his legendary WWE career or simply a pause remains to be seen. One thing is certain: if the gloves ever do hit the mat for good, Styles wants to be sure it’s on his own terms.

During his appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, Stephanie read a letter AJ’s wife wrote.

You can check out the letter below:

“To my loving husband whom I call Allen and the world calls ‘The Phenomenal AJ Styles,

“Growing up, who knew I would marry a wrestler? Sure, I would watch wrestling with my grandmother, but I never had a desire to marry one. Well, we paid for our small wedding with money made by your short stint in the WCW when you started chasing this dream. You always told me to trust you that you would make it. Never once did you doubt yourself. As your bride, I trusted you and even encouraged you to go when the WWE came knocking very early in your career. I believe that required you to move to Cincinnati. I was in college at the time. As a young married couple, you refused. You chose me. Even when I was pushing you to go, you politely declined the offer.

You always said we would do this together and not apart. Together we have. You have traveled the world wrestling and conquered what many only dream of accomplishing. You have put God and your family first in this business. I truly believe God opened every door and allowed not just you but our family to walk through them. For that, I am eternally grateful. You wanted to beat the house. Well, you did. A phenomenal career. Four amazing and individually gifted kids. And a loving, always supportive wife who has stood beside you the entire time. You won; come home. The phenomenal times are just beginning. I love you, babe!”

AEW Dynamite Preview 2/4/2026

AEW Dynamite airs live tonight on TBS and HBO Max from the Pearl Concert Theater at the Psalms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.

  • AEW World Championship Eliminator Match: MJF (c) vs. Brody King
  • AEW National Championship: Ricochet (c) vs. Jungle Jack Perry
  • Kenny Omega vs. Andrade El Idolo
  • Hangman Adam Page vs. Mark Davis

ROH x MPX Global Wars 2/5/2026

ROH x MPX Global Wars. The special episode, which is the 21st Global Wars event, will air on February 5th on HonorClub in the usual ROH timeslot at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT.

  • ROH Women’s TV Championship Proving Ground Match: Red Velvet (c) vs. VertVixen
  • MPX Women’s Championship Match: Abadon (c) vs. Ray Lyn.
  • Athena, Diamante, & Billie Starkz vs. Deonna Purrazzo, Hyan, & Mya World
  • Big Bill & Bryan Keith vs. Surf & Turf
  • Trish Adora, Shane Taylor & The Infantry vs. Reiza Clark, Demo Diamond, LVJ, & Kari Jai Wright

The show was taped on Saturday before the weekend’s AEW Collision show and was originally set to take place last week, with the taping scheduled for January 24th. Those dates both ended up pushed back due to the winter storm that caused the January 24th episode of AEW Collision to be taped instead of air live.

WWE NXT Preview 2/3/2026

WWE NXT tonight on The CW network.

  • NXT Championship Ladder Match: Ricky Saints vs. Shiloh Hill vs. Sean Legacy vs. Jackson Drake vs. Dion Lennox vs. Keanu Carver vs. Joe Hendry
  • Hendry’s involvement dependant on being cleared.
  • TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship Match: The Elegance Brand (c) vs. ZaRuca
  • NXT Women’s North American Championship Match: Izzi Dame (c) vs. Lola Vice vs. Thea Hail
  • Tony D’Angelo explains his actions

Hiromu Takahashi Set To Leave NJPW As Major Roster Changes Continue

New Japan Pro Wrestling is preparing for another significant shift, as the company has officially confirmed that longtime standout Hiromu Takahashi will be departing the promotion once his current contract expires.

NJPW announced the news on its official website earlier today, explaining that the decision came after discussions between both sides. Officials apologized to fans for the abrupt nature of the announcement and expressed gratitude for Takahashi’s contributions, wishing him success in whatever comes next.

While the news marks the beginning of the end of an era, Takahashi still has a handful of appearances left with the company. He is currently touring with the roster on The Road To The New Beginning, which wraps up on February 11 at The New Beginning in Osaka. That night will feature Takahashi’s final NJPW match, where he will team with fellow Unbound Co. member Taiji Ishimori against United Empire’s Jakob Austin Young and Francesco Akira. Once the bell rings for the final time, Takahashi will officially become a free agent.

Following the announcement, “The Time Bomb” spoke with Tokyo Sports in an exclusive interview, shedding light on his mindset and why now felt like the right moment to move on. Takahashi described the decision as something he had given serious thought to, noting that the outpouring of love from fans reinforced just how meaningful his NJPW run had been.

While he made it clear that his ambitions within wrestling haven’t changed — including his long-standing dream of eventually holding the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and competing at the very top of the card — Takahashi revealed that another personal dream has taken priority. He explained that waiting any longer could have led to regret later in life, making the timing of this decision crucial for him.

Takahashi exits NJPW with one of the most decorated résumés in junior heavyweight history. His accomplishments include five reigns as IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion, a run as IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, a NEVER Openweight Six-Man Tag Team Championship reign, and a record-setting four Best of the Super Juniors tournament victories.

As NJPW continues to evolve, Takahashi’s departure leaves a massive hole in the junior division — and opens the door to endless speculation about where one of the most influential performers of his generation may land next.