Shayna Baszler Set for TNA Wrestling Debut at Bound For Glory

Shayna Baszler is heading to TNA Wrestling, with the former WWE star set to make her promotional debut at this weekend’s Bound For Glory pay-per-view. Baszler will reunite with Zoey Serrano to challenge for the TNA Knockouts World Tag Team Championships after the pair’s reunion was arranged on Thursday Night Impact.

The unexpected partnership came together after Serrano was confronted by reigning champions Allie and Kiera Hogan. The champions challenged Serrano to find a partner for a tag team match at Bound For Glory, putting the former WWE star in search of someone who could help her capture the gold.

Serrano didn’t have to look far, reaching out to her former teammate Baszler during a video call and asking her to join forces for the championship opportunity.

Zoey Serrano Recruits Shayna Baszler for Bound For Glory

During the call, Serrano got straight to the point, explaining that Hogan and Allie had challenged her to a match for the Knockouts Tag Team Championships.

She then asked Baszler to team with her, even jokingly offering to pay her for the favor.

Baszler wasn’t interested in taking money from her former teammate. Instead, she wanted to know when and where the match would take place, quickly agreeing to join Serrano for the title opportunity.

The conversation also highlighted the pair’s shared taste for an aggressive approach to wrestling. The two joked about dividing up the limbs they would break during the match, with Serrano suggesting they split the damage between them.

It was a brief but entertaining exchange that established their reunion ahead of one of TNA’s biggest events of the year.

Baszler and Serrano Have Previous Tag Team Experience

Although Baszler’s arrival in TNA may come as a surprise to some fans, she and Serrano are already familiar with working together.

The two recently teamed up at a RevPro event in England in July, where they picked up a victory over Myla Grace and Kanji.

Their history also stretches back to their time in WWE, when they were members of the Pure Fusion Collective faction alongside Sonya Deville.

Interestingly, Deville is also currently working with TNA, creating another connection between the promotion and the group’s former WWE members.

Baszler brings considerable experience to the partnership, having established herself as one of WWE’s most physically imposing performers. Her background in mixed martial arts and submission wrestling could make her a particularly dangerous addition to the Knockouts tag team division.

Can Baszler and Serrano Win the Knockouts Tag Team Titles?

Baszler’s debut immediately puts her in a championship match, giving her the chance to make a significant impact in TNA from the outset.

However, standing across the ring will be Hogan and Allie, who will be looking to protect their status as Knockouts World Tag Team Champions at Bound For Glory.

The reunited team of Baszler and Serrano will have to turn their familiarity into effective teamwork if they want to leave the event with the championships.

Baszler’s hard-hitting style and submission expertise could complement Serrano’s approach, making the duo an intriguing challenge for the reigning champions.

With Bound For Glory approaching, the biggest question is whether Baszler’s first appearance in TNA will end with championship gold or whether Hogan and Allie can spoil the reunion.

Either way, Baszler’s arrival adds another notable name to TNA’s women’s division, while her connection to Serrano gives the championship match an added layer of history.

WWE SmackDown Preview 10/9/2026

WWE SmackDown live tonight at 8/7c on USA Network in the U.S. and Netflix internationally from the Cajundome in Lafayette, Louisiana.

  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match: Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley & Lainey Reid) (c) vs. Charlotte Flair & Tatum Paxley
  • Men’s Money in the Bank entrants CM Punk, Kevin Owens, Trick Williams, Je’Von Evans, Penta, and Bron Breakker appear
  • Women’s Money in the Bank entrants Roxanne Perez, Tiffany Stratton, Sol Ruca, Lash Legend, Lola Vice, and Jacy Jayne appear

Tessa Blanchard Reportedly Set for MLW Debut After CMLL Situation Gets Resolved

Tessa Blanchard’s complicated situation involving Major League Wrestling (MLW) and Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL) appears to have reached a resolution, with the former world champion reportedly cleared to compete for MLW.

According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer, the situation has been worked out between the promotions, paving the way for Blanchard to make her MLW debut on November 7 at Saturday Night Super Fight.

Meltzer shared the update on X on Thursday morning, writing, “Tessa Blanchard headed to MLW. All worked out with CMLL.”

The latest development follows weeks of uncertainty surrounding Blanchard’s status and whether she would be permitted to wrestle for MLW while maintaining her connection with CMLL.

Tessa Blanchard’s MLW Status Takes Another Turn

Blanchard initially announced on September 1 that she had signed with MLW, seemingly confirming a new chapter in her wrestling career.

However, that announcement was followed by a clarification from CMLL just days later. The Mexican promotion stated that Blanchard had not actually signed a contract with MLW and was only scheduled to compete in a match for the company.

The situation eventually resulted in Blanchard being removed from MLW’s September 12 event, leaving questions about her immediate future with the promotion.

Now, with Meltzer reporting that the situation has been resolved and CMLL announcing Blanchard’s upcoming MLW appearance, it appears the necessary arrangements have been made for her to compete.

MLW has Blanchard scheduled for Saturday Night Super Fight on November 7, which could provide a fresh opportunity for the former Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Champion to establish herself with the promotion.

Blanchard to Represent CMLL in the Grand Prix de Amazonas

Blanchard’s upcoming MLW appearance is not the only major development involving her schedule. CMLL has also announced that she will represent the promotion in the Grand Prix de Amazonas on October 23.

She will compete alongside La Jarochita and Thunder Rosa as part of CMLL’s representation in the event.

The tournament will feature wrestlers connected to several promotions, making it an international showcase of women’s wrestling talent.

CMLL’s team will include Blanchard, La Jarochita, and Thunder Rosa, while MLW will be represented by Blackheart and Killer Kelly. Alice Crowley will represent MLP, and AEW will have Megan Bayne, Queen Aminata, and Harley Cameron competing.

The event gives Blanchard another opportunity to compete on a major international stage before her scheduled MLW appearance in November.

What Happens Next for Tessa Blanchard?

With the reported agreement between MLW and CMLL, Blanchard appears poised to work with both promotions without the scheduling dispute that previously threatened her MLW plans.

The situation also highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of professional wrestling, with talent appearing across multiple promotions and international partnerships creating opportunities for crossover matches.

For Blanchard, the next few weeks could prove important as she prepares for the Grand Prix de Amazonas before moving on to Saturday Night Super Fight.

Although the latest report indicates that the issue has been resolved, fans will be watching to see how MLW ultimately presents Blanchard and whether her November appearance leads to a more regular role with the company.

For now, her MLW debut is back on the schedule, and the apparent resolution with CMLL puts the focus back on what Blanchard can accomplish inside the ring.

WWE Crown Jewel and WrestleMania 43 Plans Face Security Concerns After U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia Issues New Security Alert

WWE’s plans to hold major events in Saudi Arabia are facing renewed scrutiny following a security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy amid escalating tensions involving Iran and ongoing threats against Saudi Arabian airports and airspace.

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Riyadh published the alert on October 7, advising American citizens in Saudi Arabia to exercise heightened vigilance due to the developing security situation. The warning has raised further questions about WWE’s upcoming Crown Jewel premium live event and WrestleMania 43, both of which are scheduled to take place in Riyadh.

Despite the concerns, WWE has not announced any changes to either event as of the latest available information.

U.S. Embassy Warns of Potential Travel Disruptions

According to the security alert, the ongoing conflict and public threats from Houthi forces could lead to further escalation, including potential disruptions to air travel throughout Saudi Arabia.

The embassy urged U.S. citizens to monitor their travel arrangements closely, check directly with airlines and airports for flight updates, and follow guidance issued by Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense authorities.

Americans were also advised to keep a low profile, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and stay away from areas with a significant police presence.

The alert additionally warned against traveling near the Yemen border, with certain restrictions in place for U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. State Department had already issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Saudi Arabia in September, encouraging Americans to reconsider travel to the country. Some areas are subject to a Level 4 advisory, the highest level, which advises against travel and may recommend that U.S. citizens leave.

While the embassy confirmed that regular and emergency consular services remain available, the warning highlights the potential risks facing travelers as the regional security situation develops.

WWE Crown Jewel Still Scheduled for November 7

WWE is currently scheduled to hold Crown Jewel in Riyadh on November 7, 2026. The event is one of the company’s major international premium live events and is part of WWE’s ongoing partnership with Saudi Arabia.

However, the latest security alert could add to the concerns surrounding the show, particularly for WWE personnel, production crews, performers, and fans who will need to travel to the country.

Reports from September indicated that construction was expected to begin on a temporary outdoor venue at Riyadh Seasonal Stadium, where Crown Jewel is scheduled to take place.

There have also been reports of internal questions within WWE about whether the ongoing conflict could lead to changes or a potential postponement. According to WrestleVotes Radio, as reported by Fightful Select, individuals who regularly travel to Saudi Arabia for WWE events had been asking internally about the possibility of rescheduling Crown Jewel.

So far, however, there has been no official announcement indicating that the event will be moved or canceled.

WrestleMania 43 Also Scheduled for Riyadh in 2027

The situation could have implications beyond Crown Jewel, as WWE is also planning to bring WrestleMania 43 to Riyadh in April 2027.

WrestleMania is WWE’s biggest annual event, making the Saudi Arabian show a significant part of the company’s long-term international strategy.

With several months remaining before WrestleMania 43, it is too early to determine whether the current security concerns will affect those plans. Much will depend on how the regional situation develops and whether travel conditions improve or deteriorate in the coming months.

For now, there has been no official announcement that WWE intends to relocate WrestleMania 43.

Will WWE Make Any Changes?

The latest embassy warning does not confirm that Crown Jewel or WrestleMania 43 will be affected. However, potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and broader travel disruptions could create logistical challenges if the security situation worsens.

WWE will need to consider the circumstances as it approaches Crown Jewel, especially given the number of people and resources involved in producing a major international event.

At this stage, the company appears to be proceeding with its existing plans for Riyadh, although that could change depending on future developments.

For WWE fans, the key question is whether the situation will remain stable enough for the November event to go ahead as scheduled. Until WWE provides an official update, Crown Jewel remains planned for November 7, with WrestleMania 43 still slated for April 2027.

Any decision to change those plans would likely depend on security assessments, travel conditions, and discussions with the relevant authorities and local partners.

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT! Preview 10/8/2026

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT! tonight at 9/8c on AMC. Tonight’s episode is the last one before Sunday’s Bound For Glory pay-per-view.

  • TNA World Tag Team Championship Match: The Nemeth Brothers (c) vs. The Hardys
  • TNA Knockouts Television Championship Match: M By Elegance (c) vs. Elayna Black
  • Call Your Shot Gauntlet Advantage Match: Frankie Kazarian, Trey Miguel, Bear Bronson & Elijah vs. AJ Francis, Brian Myers, The Home Town Man & Joe Alonzo
  • Allie and Kiera Hogan vs. TBA
  • KC Navarro vs. Fabian Aichner
  • Xia Brookside & Indie Hartwell’s final words before Bound For Glory

Cody Rhodes Reveals New WWE Deal, Plans To End Career With The Company

Cody Rhodes Says He’s Signed New WWE Contract, Plans To End Career There

Cody Rhodes has confirmed that his future remains firmly tied to WWE after revealing that he recently signed a new contract with the company.

While making media appearances to promote the upcoming Street Fighter movie, Rhodes shared what he described as “breaking news” during an interview on FLAGRANT, announcing that he has agreed to a new deal with WWE and intends to remain with the company for the rest of his wrestling career.

According to Rhodes, the new agreement reflects not only his commitment to WWE but also the flexibility that talent now have to pursue opportunities outside the wrestling business. He explained that performers are increasingly able to work on projects such as movies and television while maintaining their relationship with WWE, allowing them to step away temporarily and return when those commitments are completed.

The former Undisputed WWE Champion noted that this evolving approach has changed the way he thinks about the future. Earlier in his career, Rhodes had a specific age in mind for retirement, but he now sees a variety of paths available within WWE beyond being a full-time in-ring performer. Whether that means transitioning into another role within the company or continuing to make appearances after slowing down in the ring, Rhodes appears confident that WWE will remain his professional home.

Family also plays a major role in how he views the next chapter of his life. Rhodes spoke about the importance of being present for his children and referenced the support he received growing up from his parents, including WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes. He said he hopes to provide the same kind of stability and presence for his own daughters as they grow older.

Rhodes’ comments come during another high-profile year for the WWE star. In addition to his Hollywood projects, he remains one of the company’s top names on SmackDown. Most recently, he came up short in his attempt to qualify for the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match after interference from Randy Orton affected the outcome.

Since returning to WWE at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, Rhodes has reestablished himself as one of the promotion’s biggest stars. His return followed his departure from AEW, a company he helped launch in 2019, and culminated in his championship victory at WrestleMania 40.

With a new contract now in place and outside opportunities continuing to grow, it appears that WWE and Cody Rhodes will remain linked for years to come. And if Rhodes has his way, when the time eventually comes to step away from active competition, it will be while still representing the company he now calls home.

Indie Legend Necro Butcher Signs WWE Legends Deal Despite Never Wrestling For WWE

Few names in professional wrestling are as closely associated with the independent scene and hardcore wrestling as Necro Butcher. That’s why many fans were caught off guard when the veteran brawler announced that he has officially signed a WWE Legends deal.

Necro Butcher, whose real name is Dylan Summers, shared the news through a post on Facebook, revealing that WWE approached him with an offer shortly after he left his previous job. According to Summers, the timing was unexpected, but the agreement has already opened the door for potential future projects with the company.

In his statement, Necro reflected on the significance of receiving recognition from WWE despite never having wrestled for the promotion. He emphasized that his career was built by working hard across the independent wrestling landscape rather than following the traditional path to WWE. He also assured fans that the deal would not affect his current bookings and that he intends to continue honoring his scheduled appearances.

Following the announcement, PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reported that WWE officials confirmed the agreement, describing it as the type of arrangement often referred to internally as a “nostalgia agreement.” These deals typically allow WWE to feature a wrestler’s likeness and legacy in various projects, including merchandise, documentaries, video games, and other content.

Necro Butcher’s profile has grown in recent years thanks in part to VICE’s Dark Side of the Ring. One episode focused heavily on his acclaimed 2005 match against Samoa Joe, a bout widely regarded as one of the most memorable matches in independent wrestling history. The documentary also highlighted Summers’ personal battle with Hodgkin lymphoma, a serious health struggle that left him using a wheelchair in 2020. Fortunately, he later announced that he had beaten cancer and was officially cancer-free.

Over the course of his career, Necro became one of the most recognizable figures on the independent circuit. He competed for a long list of promotions, including Ring of Honor, IWA Mid-South, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, Full Impact Pro, Combat Zone Wrestling, Big Japan Pro Wrestling, and Juggalo Championship Wrestling, among many others. His reputation was built on an intense, no-nonsense style that often blended brawling and deathmatch wrestling, making him a cult favorite among hardcore wrestling fans.

Outside the ring, Necro also gained mainstream exposure through his appearance in the 2008 wrestling drama The Wrestler.

While WWE Legends deals are typically associated with former WWE stars, Necro Butcher’s signing stands out because he never spent time wrestling for the company. For many fans of independent wrestling, the agreement serves as recognition of a career that left a lasting mark on the industry without ever requiring a run in WWE.

WWE NXT Preview 10/06/2026

WWE NXT tonight at 8/7c on The CW.

  • NXT Women’s Championship #1 Contenders Battle Royal: Arianna Grace, Layla Diggs, Indi Hartwell, Xia Brookside, M by Elegance, Heather by Elegance, Ivy Nile, Kiana James, Adelicious, Lady Shani, Lizzy Rain, Thea Hail, Skylar Raye, Zaria, Izzi Dame, Kali Armstrong, Reina Volcan, Nikkita Lyons, Chantel Monroe, and La Catalina
  • Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic First Round Match: Sean Legacy & Dorian Van Dux vs Tokyo Bad Boys
  • Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic First Round Match: Shido Ash & Viktor Zanov vs Hank & Tank
  • Naraku vs. Shiloh Hill
  • Zilla Fatu goes after Lexis King

AEW Dynamite Grand Slam France Preview 10/6/2026

AEW Dynamite Grand Slam France special tonight at 8/c on TBS and HBO Max from the Adidas Arena in Paris, France..

  • AEW World Championship Match: Will Ospreay (c) vs. Kazuchika Okaka
  • AEW Women’s World Championship Match: Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Queen Aminata
  • TNT Championship Match: Darby Allin (c) vs. Kyle Fletcher
  • Clockwork Carnage World Title Qualifying Match: Samoa Joe vs. “Jungle” Jack Perry
  • ROH World Championship Match: Bandido (c) vs. Kofi
  • Death Rider (Jon Moxley & Gabe Kidd) vs. Don Callis Family (Mark Davis & Jake Doyle)
  • Jericho vs. Nick Wayne

Jim Ross Reveals He Is Undergoing Another Brain Surgery

AEW commentator and WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has announced that he will undergo another brain surgery this week following complications related to a previous procedure.

Ross shared the news on social media, revealing that doctors will perform surgery on Wednesday to address an issue involving a shunt that was placed in his brain earlier this year.

“Getting another brain surgery Wednesday morning to address an issue with my shunt. Positive thoughts appreciated. Thanks,” Ross wrote.

The legendary broadcaster previously underwent surgery in August 2026, forcing him to miss AEW All In London. However, recent complications have reportedly led to the need for additional medical treatment.

Ross recently discussed the situation on his Grilling JR podcast, explaining that he has been dealing with severe headaches that have significantly impacted his quality of life. According to Ross, the pain has been intense enough to interfere with his sleep, and he compared the symptoms to what someone suffering from extreme migraines might experience.

In addition to his current brain-related issues, Ross revealed that doctors have discovered a spot on his kidney that could potentially be cancerous. He is scheduled to travel to Oklahoma City to meet with a specialist and determine what further testing or treatment may be necessary.

The longtime wrestling voice has battled numerous health challenges in recent years. Since 2021, Ross has undergone treatment for skin, hip, and colon cancer, as well as several other medical procedures. Despite those setbacks, he announced in 2025 that he was cancer-free for the third time and later returned to call the final two matches at AEW All In Texas.

At this time, there is no word on when Ross may return to AEW programming. Everyone at WrestlingNewsBlog.com joins wrestling fans around the world in wishing JR a successful surgery and a speedy recovery.