Month: July 2019

Maria Kanellis Spent Tuesday In The Emergency Room

Maria Kanellis took to Instagram this week and revealed that she spent Tuesday in the emergency room of the Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Florida.

Kanellis, who appeared on Monday’s WWE RAW Reunion special in a backstage segment, noted on Instagram that she was hospitalized due to complications from her second pregnancy.

This could be why the WWE 205 Live contract signing between Mike Kanellis and 205 LiveGeneral Manager Drake Maverick never happened. Drake did appear in a backstage segment to announce that next week’s match would be Unsanctioned, but they never appeared in front of the live crowd.

Maria wrote on Instagram, “This is where I spent my day yesterday. Baby number 2 is giving me a run for my money. I had acute vomiting, a headache, and I was dehydrated. I threw up from 6am-3pm nonstop. I have never missed a day at WWE that wasn’t planned for in advance. But yesterday I was forced to stay away. It was a wild day! I received fluids, nausea meds, and Tylenol. They think I had a flu bug but I am feeling much better today. The nurses and doctors were fantastic and very caring. This pregnancy is definitely different from the first time. Baby 2 is doing good and that is what matters most. I am blessed to be pregnant and to have a beautiful 15 month old. Plus, women get pregnant all the time, work jobs, have other children, keep house, go to school, travel, have a second job, no paid maternity leave, are single, adopt, and so many other things. So, I keep things in perspective even when I have a tough day or 6 weeks…. I am still incredibly BLESSED!!! #secondpregnancy #12weekspregnant #seeyounextweek”

Maria indicated that she will be back next week.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Jimmy Uso Arrest Update, More Details On What Happened

As noted, WWE Superstar Jimmy Uso was arrested for DUI while driving near Pensacola, FL early yesterday morning, and booked into the Escambia County Jail at 3:04am ET under a $1,000 bond. He reportedly refused DUI tests and was also cited for speeding. He was later bonded out of jail at around 10:45am ET, and is scheduled to be in court on the morning of Thursday, August 15.

The local ABC affiliate has revealed more details on what happened. ABC3 reports that a deputy was dispatched to the area of Pine Forest and Nine Mile Road in Escambia County at 1:30am ET, in reference to a possible DUI complaint. The deputy was advised by an off-duty police officer that a vehicle was traveling westbound on Interstate 10, doing an excess of 100 mph, and drifting from “left to right and going out of its lane.”

Uso’s vehicle then left Pine Forest Road and continued northbound, according to the off-duty officer. The vehicle then pulled into Ticket Sports Bar, but the car was no longer in the parking lot by the time the deputy arrived. The deputy was parked at a nearby Public when he observed a vehicle turn from Pine Forest Road onto Highway 297A, rapidly accelerate, and then travel very close to another car. That’s when the deputy conducted the traffic stop on Uso in the area of Highway 97A and Brockwood Place.

The officer noted that Jimmy appeared to have some issues holding documents in his hands after the officer asked for his license, registration and proof of insurance. The deputy also observed Uso to have bloodshot, watery, droopy eyelids, and dilated pupils, along with slow and slurred speech. The officer said he could smell an alcoholic beverage coming from the driver side window. That’s when he asked Uso to step out of the vehicle to speak with him in front of the patrol car. Jimmy had to be told several times to get out of the car, according to the deputy’s report.

Once Uso finally got out of the car, he appeared to be unsteady on his feet, noted the officer. The deputy asked Uso if he was willing to ride to an adjacent parking lot which was flat, level and well-lit. Uso agreed to take the ride, but then seemed confused and asked what was happening. The deputy explained that he was going to give Uso a ride to the adjacent parking lot to conduct a Field Sobriety task. Uso started asking if he needed a lawyer, and if he was being detained. The officer then informed Uso that he was conducting a DUI investigation, and that it was not possible to have a lawyer present.

The report noted that Uso then took his phone out of his pocket and tried to put the phone towards the officer’s face. The officer then placed Uso in handcuffs and placed him under arrest for the DUI. Uso became uncooperative and had to be told multiple times to have a seat in the patrol car. While in the back of the patrol car, Uso told the officer he was uncomfortable with it and that he wanted to speak with another officer. Then while on the way to the jail, the officer said he had to roll down his back windows due to the overwhelming smell of an alcoholic beverage that was engulfing the vehicle.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Vince McMahon Talks AEW, Says He Can’t See TNT Tolerating “Blood And Guts” Content For Too Long

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon made several references to All Elite Wrestling during today’s Second Quarter 2019 Earnings call from WWE HQ in Stamford, CT.

When discussing the WWE creative content getting a bit more edgier, Vince said they will remain in the PG environment” and they will not go back to the Attitude Era, but they will do some more controversy with better storylines. He then said WWE will not “do blood and guts and things of that nature, such as what is being done on our new potential competitor” – a reference to AEW and what they have been doing on their sows.

Vince later talked more about competition during the Q&A with investors, and said he generally believes that competition is good for everyone. Vince said they are hoping to the extent that they, presumably AEW, remains competition, but that AEW doesn’t continue “the blood and guts and gory things that they have been doing,” which he says are bad things.

Vince added that he can’t speak for TNT, but he can’t imagine that the network “would put up with that” kind of content continuing from AEW.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

CM Punk Says He Received An Offer From All Elite Wrestling Via Text Message

A large portion of the wrestling community is hoping to see CM Punk in AEW, and now the former WWE star has confirmed he recently received an offer from the company (via text message).

Punk was brutally honest, so it would seem, about his relationship with All Elite Wrestling while speaking with ESPN’s Marc Raimondi to promote an upcoming appearance at Starrcast.

When asked if he had a relationship with AEW, Punk firmly stated no.

“I know they like to talk about me a lot. If I text Matt Jackson, “Hey, have a great show tonight,” which I did when they had their big show in Vegas, that somehow turns into Tony Khan telling people he has a great relationship with me. I’ve said in the past I’ve talked to them, but nothing ever came of anything,” he added.

Punk also addressed fans having expectations to see him at All Out because of his scheduled appearance at Starrcast:

“I think if there’s an expectation, it’s purely been built by them. My silence to some fans means something. They’re trying to read the tea leaves, but there’s nothing to read. I even feel like talking about it may feel like I’m putting some sort of negative slant on it, but I’m really not. The fact is I know they’ve teased me ad nauseam, and if anybody is gonna get mad it’s at me because I don’t show up. Well then, I don’t know what to tell you. That’s one of those things that’s none of my business.”

“They do videos where they talk about me. They’re constantly talking about me in the media. And again, maybe this sounds like I’m badgering them, but I’m not. It’s just something that happens. I’m a popular guy to talk about. But I’m not doing interviews talking about them. If people ask me about it, I say no, I won’t be there.”

Punk was then asked straight up if anything between he and AEW was imminent and this is what he said:

Punk: The last thing I got — I got a text from Cody [Rhodes]. And again, I almost don’t even know how to reply to them sometimes, because if I reply, they do interviews and are like, “Oh yeah, I just talked to Punk.” I’m kind of damned if I do, damned if I don’t. I always think if somebody wants to do business with me, they can come talk to me. Texting offers isn’t really a way to do good business, at least.

ESPN: Was it an offer via text?

Punk: It was texted through three people and an offer came in through text. This is like a month ago, maybe.

ESPN: An offer for All Out?

Punk: I think it was just a general offer. I never could have done the last one in Vegas [Double or Nothing], because I was in California for CFFC.

Punk talked about his UFC future as well in the interview and how he wouldn’t be surprised to get cut.

“I’m not that dude that sat down on a stage in Vegas eight years ago,” he added. “I’m not the dude that left WWE. I’m not that guy. That was five-years-ago Phil. I’m a different dude now. People still have that connotation, like, “Oh, he hates WWE.” And it’s just like, no, I’ve let all that go, and I’ve let all that go so long ago. But there are people that hold on to that. They still think or want me to be who I was. I’m not who I was yesterday. This is my journey, this is my odyssey.”

Punk also said he doesn’t expect to be involved in wrestling by 2020 — but anything is possible.

Source: Pro Wrestling Sheet

WWE Network Rolling Out Updated Version This Week, Aims To Satisfy Fan Feedback With Updated Interface, Free And VIP Tiers On The Way

WWE has announced to Network subscribers that they’ll be rolling out an updated version of the platform this week.

The company sent an email to subscribers which explains:

We are pleased to inform you that WWE Network is being updated this week with a new design, a simpler navigation and smarter search tools. In addition, please be aware of the following:

1) You will need to log in with your email address and password the first time you use the updated WWE Network on each streaming device.
2) You will NOT need to set up a new account. You should use your existing WWE Network email address and password.
3) The update will occur on different devices at different times during the week.

CLICK HERE for a video on WWE.com showing some of the changes, like Superstar specific pages and the promise of additional features that fans have been asking for.

The WWE Network launched in 2014. This was before every major media company had an over-the-top streaming service, like the current entertainment landscape, and it was huge for wrestling fans. Not only did the platform allow subscribers the ability to watch monthly pay-per-views for a low price, but it also gave access to a massive catalogue of content that’s only grown over the years.

Image result for wwe network launch

This includes classic content from WWE, WCW and ECW, as well as territories such as AWA, World Class, Mid-South and Smoky Mountain Wrestling. The platform also launched NXT UK, 205 Live, the Mae Young Classic and premiered exclusive documentaries and shows.

WWE began surveying wrestling fans shortly after launching their network. While subtle changes have been implemented over time due to feedback, the interface as a whole has largely remained the same.

That changes beginning today.

Pro Wrestling Sheet got a sneak peak of the platform’s updated look and it features a sleek, new standout design that’s comparable to Netflix or Hulu. Aside from a more visually pleasing look, the platform now provides more viewing options as well.

Pro Wrestling Sheet was told the team spent lots of time taking in the feedback to craft an experience that will allow subscribers to discover content more easily. This note is evident right away.

Past pay-per-view content is featured more prominently on the homepage with bigger versions of the posters showing off what’s available in reverse chronological order. The navigation bar has also moved to the left hand side of the platform with new options — including a Superstars landing page.

This page includes WWE roster specific cards you can click on to see featured matches from the performers, stats and more. Each Superstar page can be favorited to make it easier to find new content from your favorite WWE stars upon return.

Something else users will notice is that finding WWE pay-per-views in that section of the platform has been simplified, as each event is listed at the top of the page. Even better, when you open a PPV, a carousel of thumbnails is shown at the bottom so you can jump to any match or moment in the show. This feature will work with some of the TV shows as well, though not all.

There’s also a skip match button that’s been added which allows users the ability to jump ahead while watching something that isn’t live. This is very handy if you’re not feeling a match or segment.

According to WWE, today’s rollout is only the first phase of the new version of their network. This will open the door to additional tiers and more global localization on the platform.

Beginning today with phase one … fans will see a sleeker design, a better user experience and search functionality that makes it easier to find content.

It’s no secret that the search functionality of the original interface has been criticized by fans since day one. For example, searching “Stone Cold” yields over 139 pages of results and it’s difficult to find something you might want to watch. In the new interface, however, results show notable pay-per-views he was featured on alongside famous moments and matches.

“Over the next few months we plan to launch a free tier with select WWE programming and – a few months after that – a VIP tier with additional programming similar to the EVOLVE 10th anniversary celebration that WWE Network streamed earlier this month,” WWE tells Pro Wrestling Sheet.

WWE’s relationship with EVOLVE got taken to a new level this month after the two companies produced their first joint event on the WWE Network. The event showcased indie talent in matches against NXT Superstars like Matt Riddle, Babatunde, Arturo Ruas and Adam Cole, as well as 205 Live wrestlers Drew Gulak and Akira Tozawa. Paul Heyman was also on the show.

WWE Photo

Similar to EVOLVE, WWE has had a relationship for years now with PROGRESS and ICW. WWE didn’t confirm either promotion would be included in the VIP tier, but “programming similar to the EVOLVE 10th Anniversary Celebration” sounds like that’s a possibility.

Additional details on WWE’s free and VIP tiers in the coming months were not made available, nor how the new tiers might affect programming currently available to subscribers.

WWE did confirm, however, that they have a long term goal of localizing WWE Network “by language and currency in key markets around the world.”

The launch video below also promises better scrolling through video content, but we weren’t able to test it out while getting a tour of the new features. Fans will certainly be happy if WWE has been able to fix this part of the app though, as it’s another one of the most criticized parts of the platform.

WWE did not say whether there are plans for shared/custom playlists in the near future. Same for the possibility of downloading content for offline viewing. Hopefully these features aren’t far behind though, as the updated version of WWE Network looks to have addressed almost all of the complaints from subscribers and it makes for a much better experience.

Source: Pro Wrestling Sheet

Partnership Between ROH And NWA Ends

The partnership between Ring of Honor and the National Wrestling Alliance has come to an end, according to PWInsider. The two sides reportedly had an amicable split, but have left the door open down the road to partner up again.

NWA Worlds Champion Nick Aldis was originally advertised for ROH Summer Supercard on August 9 in Toronto, but he will no longer be working the event.

NWA Vice President Dave Lagana—who had produced numerous videos for ROH over the last several months—also finished up with ROH this past weekend. NWA President Billy Corgan is looking to put together a weekly stand-alone NWA series later this year.

The two promotions worked together for last April’s NWA Crockett Cup where PCO and Brody King won the tournament and are the current NWA World Tag Team Champions.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Jimmy Uso Arrested Again For DUI

WWE RAW Superstar Jimmy Uso was arrested for driving under the influence near Pensacola, Florida early this morning, according to TMZ.

Uso was booked at 3:04am ET and charged with “DUI – driving with an unlawful blood alcohol level.” Uso was still in jail as of press time, with a bond set at $1,000.

Law enforcement has stated that Uso was swerving his vehicle and smelt of alcohol when he was pulled over. He is alleged to have refused a DUI test. Uso was also hit with a citation for speeding.

He was arrested back in February after a drunken altercation with police in Detroit, charged with obstruction and disorderly conduct.

This past Monday night on RAW during a segment with John Cena, Cena rapped and joked about both brothers past arrests.

“Respect for calling me out, but ain’t no way I’m getting bested,” Cena rapped. “Ya’ll look just like your mugshots! How was it getting arrested?”

Below is Jimmy’s mugshot photo from this morning:

Image result for Jimmy Uso mugshot from July 25, 2019

UPDATE:

The Escambia County website now shows that Uso was bonded out of jail at 10:15am ET. He is scheduled to be in court at 8:30am ET on Thursday, August 15, according to court records.

WWE issued the following statement to the media this afternoon in response to Jimmy Uso’s latest arrest:

“Jonathan Fatu is responsible for his own personal actions.”

WWE NXT Preview 7/24/19

NXT, streaming tonight at 8 ET on WWE Network.

* Adam Cole and Johnny Gargano announce their NXT Title Match stipulations

* Keith Lee takes aim at The Archer of Infamy in colossal clash

* Kacy Catanzaro first to take on new-attitude Io Shirai

* Jordan Myles and Angel Garza face off in Breakout Tournament Semifinals

* Who will be next to experience Velveteen Dream?

WWE NXT UK Preview 7/24/19

NXT UK, today at 3 ET/8 GMT on WWE Network.

Trent Seven is out for payback on WALTER and Imperium

This week on NXT UK, following the brutal Imperium assault that put Tyler Bate on the shelf several weeks ago, United Kingdom Champion WALTER has agreed to face Trent Seven, who is out for payback. But, will the forces of Imperium make things less than “sacred” for The Artful Dodger?

Plus, at Kenny Williams request, The Lucky Yin will battle Noam Dar one-on-one and NXT UK Women’s Champion Toni Storm will team with Piper Niven & Xia Brookside against the woman who will challenge her at NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff, Kay Lee Ray, and her partners Jinny & Jazzy Gabert – the first-ever Six-Women’s Tag Team Match in NXT UK history.

AEW Weekly TNT TV Show Officially Announced, Location For The First Episode, Launch Trailer

TNT and AEW have announced that the weekly AEW TV show will air on Wednesday nights from 8pm until 10pm ET, beginning on Wednesday, October 2.

The first AEW TV show will air from the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. AEW will be announcing details on tickets this coming Monday.

TNT Premieres All Elite Wrestling’s Live Weekly Matches on Wednesdays Beginning October 2

July 24, 2019 – WarnerMedia announced today that the new professional wrestling league All Elite Wrestling (AEW) will begin airing its two-hour weekly matches on TNT on Wednesday, Oct. 2, from 8 p.m. ET to 10 p.m. ET. The highly-anticipated, action-packed matches will take place in different cities across the nation each week on Wednesdays, starting in Washington, D.C., at the famed Capital One Arena. Ticket pricing and on-sale date for the televised live event will be announced on Monday, July 29, at 12 p.m. ET via AEW’s social media platforms.

AEW features a world-class roster of diverse male and female wrestlers, giving fans a new wrestling experience for the first time in 20 years. Founded by President and CEO Tony Khan, AEW is headlined by Cody & Brandi Rhodes, The Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson), Kenny Omega, Hangman Adam Page, Chris Jericho and Jon Moxley. The roster is also filled with incredibly skilled competitors including Nyla Rose, Awesome Kong, Dustin Rhodes, Jungle Boy, Dr. Britt Baker, MJF and SCU. In addition to being in-ring talent, Cody, The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega also serve as EVPs with Brandi Rhodes serving as Chief Brand Officer. Renowned commentator Jim Ross has also joined the league.

Focused on fast-paced, high-impact competitions, AEW offers fans more athleticism along with real sports analytics. Wrestlers are also given freedom to explore their characters and highlight their athletic abilities. Introducing statistics to wrestling for the first time ever, AEW will raise the stakes for its matches and deepen fan engagement by tracking each competitor’s wins and losses as wrestlers pursue championships. Their moves and damage to their opponents will also be analyzed on-air to provide insights into their winning streaks.

WarnerMedia has been offering fans exclusive access to AEW’s previous matches that kicked off in May. Their extremely popular events DOUBLE OR NOTHING, FYTER FEST and FIGHT FOR THE FALLEN were all streamed on B/R Live. The highly anticipated ALL OUT event in Chicago on Saturday, Aug. 31, will also stream on the platform. B/R Live’s high fan engagement provides an invaluable opportunity to build AEW’s audience and maximize its viewership.