Author: John Bass

Legendary WCCW Announcer Bill Mercer Passes Away at 99

The wrestling world has lost a true broadcasting icon, as Bill Mercer, best known as the voice of World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), passed away on Sunday at the age of 99.

A Storied Career in Wrestling and Beyond

Mercer’s journey in wrestling began in the 1950s in Oklahoma before he made his mark in Texas. By 1976, he was a familiar voice in the industry, but it was his time calling WCCW from 1982 to 1987 that cemented his place in wrestling history. His commentary became synonymous with the golden era of WCCW, where he narrated the rise of legends like The Von Erichs, The Fabulous Freebirds, and Gino Hernandez.

However, Mercer’s talents extended well beyond the squared circle. His broadcasting career spanned 60 years, covering baseball, football, basketball, and even historic news events. He was on the ground as a news reporter covering the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963 in Dallas, a moment that forever shaped American history.

A Legacy in Education and Broadcasting

Beyond his work in media, Mercer was also a dedicated educator. From 1966 to 2006, he taught at the University of North Texas, shaping the careers of over 700 students in radio and television broadcasting. His contributions to the industry were recognized with inductions into both the Texas Radio Hall of Fame (2002) and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame (2020).

Before his passing, Mercer held the distinction of being the oldest living past president of the Dallas-Fort Worth SAG-AFTRA, an organization he served during the 1960s.

Remembering a Voice That Defined an Era

Bill Mercer’s influence on wrestling, sports, and journalism is undeniable. His voice provided the soundtrack to some of wrestling’s most unforgettable moments, and his impact will live on through the many students and broadcasters he mentored over the decades.

Rest in peace, Bill Mercer—your voice and legacy will never be forgotten.

Chris Bey Walks to the Ring and Shares Emotional Message at Benefit Show Following Injury Recovery

TNA Wrestling star Chris Bey took center stage at FSW Mecca X in Las Vegas this past Sunday, delivering an emotional speech to the fans who supported him through his difficult recovery. The event, which aired on TrillerTV, served as a benefit show for Bey, who has been sidelined since October due to a serious neck injury.

A Night of Love and Gratitude

Accompanied by his girlfriend, Brittnie Brooks, Bey walked to the ring to a warm reception. Once inside, he embraced Karrion Kross and Hammerstone, who had just competed in the main event. He then called for his long-time tag team partner, Ace Austin, to join him in the ring before addressing the crowd.

In an emotional speech, Bey expressed his deep appreciation for the wrestling community, emphasizing the support he has received from fans, fellow wrestlers, and everyone behind the scenes.

“I’d be lying if I said I did it by myself because I truly and honestly believe that because of each and every one of you, and everybody in the back, that’s the reason why I’m standing here right now.”

Bey spoke about his lifelong love for wrestling, his gratitude for the opportunity to live his dream, and how much the overwhelming support has meant to him during this time.

“Love is a real thing, and all my life, all I’ve ever truly, truly, truly loved—until I met her [Brittnie]—was professional wrestling.”

The TNA star encouraged everyone in attendance to cherish the moment, embrace their emotions, and appreciate the significance of the night.

The Injury That Changed Everything

Bey’s injury occurred last October during a TNA Tag Team Title match against Matt and Jeff Hardy at an IMPACT taping in Detroit following Bound for Glory. A botched move resulted in a broken neck, forcing him to undergo surgery and take an indefinite hiatus from the ring.

While his in-ring return remains uncertain, Bey’s heartfelt words at FSW Mecca X made it clear that he hasn’t lost his passion for wrestling—or the fans who have stood by him. His speech was a powerful reminder of the bond between wrestlers and their supporters, proving that even in the toughest moments, the love for the business remains unshaken.

With an unforgettable night in the books, the question now remains: When will Chris Bey make his return to the ring?

Date And Location Set For ROH Supercard Of Honor

Ring of Honor is gearing up for Supercard of Honor, but this year’s event is breaking from tradition. The annual pay-per-view, which has historically taken place during WrestleMania weekend, is now set to happen independently on May 2 at the Adrian Phillips Theater at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.

A Historic Venue for a Historic Show

The choice of Boardwalk Hall adds an interesting layer of wrestling history to Supercard of Honor. The venue was home to WrestleMania IV and WrestleMania V, making it the only location to host back-to-back WrestleMania events. While AEW, ROH’s parent company, last ran shows in Atlantic City in 2022, this marks the first time Supercard of Honor will take place in May since 2011.

ROH’s Journey Under Tony Khan

Ring of Honor has seen major changes since Tony Khan purchased the company in 2022. After financial struggles forced ROH into a temporary shutdown in 2021, Khan revived the promotion under the AEW umbrella. Despite AEW’s recent media rights renewal with Warner Bros. Discovery, ROH remains a streaming-exclusive product, airing weekly on HonorClub—just as it did before Khan’s ownership.

With Supercard of Honor moving to its own standalone date, this could signal a shift in ROH’s strategy, allowing the brand to establish itself further outside of AEW’s orbit. More details, including the start time and full match card, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Will this move help Supercard of Honor stand out more, or will it struggle without the buzz of WrestleMania weekend?

AEW Ramifications Of Potential WBD-UFC Deal

AEW’s partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is locked in through 2028, but potential changes could be on the horizon for the company’s Saturday night show, Collision. According to a new report, WBD is interested in acquiring UFC broadcast rights, which could have a direct impact on AEW’s programming schedule.

What’s the Situation?

Per Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer, if WBD successfully secures a deal with UFC, the promotion’s events would likely air on TNT—the same network where Collision currently resides. This raises questions about AEW’s Saturday night time slot. If UFC takes priority, Collision could be moved out of primetime or potentially shifted over to TBS, where Dynamite airs on Wednesdays.

What This Means for AEW

AEW has already seen one major network switch in its history when Dynamite moved from TNT to TBS in 2022. While shifting Collision to TBS could provide brand consistency, Meltzer warns that constantly changing time slots could be detrimental to the show’s viewership. However, there is also a scenario where Collision remains on TNT but airs after UFC events. If that happens, AEW might actually benefit from a strong lead-in audience.

The Bigger Picture

UFC’s current media rights deal with ESPN expires at the end of 2024, making it a prime target for networks looking to boost their sports programming. It’s also worth noting that UFC’s parent company, TKO Group, also owns WWE, adding another layer of intrigue to WBD’s interest in the MMA promotion.

Meanwhile, AEW’s own media landscape has evolved. At the beginning of the year AEW programming became available for streaming on MAX, and its pay-per-views can now be purchased on Amazon Prime Video—marking a notable expansion of their distribution reach.

For now, AEW remains a key player in WBD’s programming lineup, but if UFC enters the equation, Collision’s Saturday night home could be in for a shake-up.

AEW Collision Preview: Slam Dunk Saturday & Sunday 3/22 & 3/23

AEW kicks off a special weekend of AEW Collision on back-to-back nights this weekend. AEW Collision Slam Dunk Saturday tonight and AEW Collision Slam Dunk Sunday tomorrow night.

The show’s will start on TNT immediately following the NCAA tournament coast-to-cast and will also stream on Max. 

Slam Dunk Saturday:

  • TNT Championship Match: Daniel Garcia (c) vs. Adam Cole
  • Julia Hart vs. Queen Aminata
  • Konosuke Takeshita & The Murder Machines vs. Powerhouse Hobbs, Mark Briscoe, & Rocky Romero
  • The Greatest Wrestler Alive Max Caster Open Challenge’

Slam Dunk Sunday:

  • AEW world Trios Championship: Death Riders (c) vs. Top Flight & AR Fox
  • Los Titanes Del Aire vs. The Beast Mortos
  • Johnny TV vs. Bandido
  • Harley Cameron in action

The Latest On Sting Possibly Inducting Lex Luger Into WWE Hall Of Fame

The 2025 WWE Hall of Fame will feature a long-overdue induction, as Lex Luger is set to take his place among wrestling’s greatest legends. But when it comes to who will induct him, Luger has made his request clear—he wants Sting.

As reported earlier here on Wrestling News Blog, WWE plans to ask Sting about making the appearance if they haven’t done so already.

According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Luger personally asked WWE to have his longtime friend and former tag team partner Sting do the honors. WWE reportedly has no issue with the request, but the decision ultimately lies with AEW CEO Tony Khan.

Will AEW Approve Sting’s Appearance?

Historically, AEW has been open to allowing its talent to appear on WWE programming under certain conditions. However, there have been exceptions. When WWE held a D-Generation X reunion, AEW star Billy Gunn (aka “Daddy Ass”) was invited, but Khan reportedly wanted WWE to acknowledge Gunn’s AEW affiliation—something WWE wasn’t willing to do. As a result, Gunn did not appear.

This situation could unfold similarly. While Khan will likely give Sting the freedom to make his own decision, there’s always a chance AEW and WWE will negotiate terms.

Adding another wrinkle to the situation, Luger was not permitted to appear on-screen when Sting wrestled his final match at AEW Revolution 2024. Given that precedent, it’s unclear whether Khan would be willing to let one of AEW’s biggest legends take part in a WWE event without some form of recognition for AEW.

A Legendary Friendship

Luger and Sting’s careers have been intertwined for decades, from their days as tag team champions in WCW to their storied rivalry. Their bond extended beyond the ring, as Sting played a significant role in Luger’s personal redemption story after his career-ending spinal injury in 2007.

Having Sting induct Luger into the WWE Hall of Fame would be a fitting tribute to their history, but whether AEW allows it remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

With WrestleMania season approaching, WWE will likely reach out to AEW (if they haven’t already) to discuss the possibility of Sting appearing at the Hall of Fame ceremony. If AEW agrees, it would mark a rare moment of collaboration between the two companies and a heartfelt moment for wrestling fans.

Will AEW give Sting the green light? Or will WWE need to find another inductor for Luger? Stay tuned.

Backstage Update on Wyatt Sicks & Alexa Bliss Ahead of WrestleMania

With WrestleMania 41 fast approaching, fans have been wondering about the status of Alexa Bliss and the eerie Wyatt Sicks faction. Bliss made a surprise return at the Royal Rumble in February, fueling speculation that she would soon align with the group inspired by the late Bray Wyatt. However, after falling short in the Elimination Chamber match, Bliss has been absent from WWE programming—just like the Wyatt Sicks, who haven’t been seen since their loss to Karrion Kross’ Final Testament (a faction that has since mostly disbanded).

So, what’s going on with Bliss and the Wyatt Sicks? And will they be involved in WrestleMania?

Wyatt Sicks Cleared, Waiting for the Right Time

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE plans to keep Bliss off TV until the Wyatt Sicks return to SmackDown. Meanwhile, Fightful Select reported that the reason for the group’s lengthy absence was an injury to their leader, Bo Dallas (Uncle Howdy). However, Dallas—and the faction as a whole—has now been medically cleared to compete.

While WWE’s creative team is actively discussing their return, there’s no official word on exactly when they’ll be back. The company is reportedly waiting for the perfect moment to bring them back into the fold.

Is Bliss Still Set to Join the Wyatt Sicks?

Since Bliss’ return, WWE has dropped multiple hints about her potential involvement with the Wyatt Sicks, including subtle flashes of the faction’s emblem appearing on screen when she was on camera. Given her history with Uncle Howdy, dating back to early 2023 before she took time off for pregnancy, many believe she’s destined to be the sixth member of the group.

Recent reports caused some confusion when Bliss was removed from certain WrestleMania Week appearances, but it was later clarified that these were WWE World events, not WrestleMania itself. While it’s unclear if Bliss and the Wyatt Sicks will be part of The Show of Shows, their return seems inevitable.

What’s Next?

With WrestleMania just weeks away, could we see the Wyatt Sicks and Alexa Bliss make their return on the Grandest Stage of Them All? Or will WWE hold off and bring them back in a more calculated fashion after the event?

For now, it’s a waiting game, but when the Wyatt Sicks do return, expect them to make an impact—and possibly bring Bliss along for the ride.

Rey Fenix Officially Signed To WWE Contract

WWE is on the verge of adding another high-flying sensation to its roster, as reports indicate that Rey Fenix has officially signed with the company. The news follows a mysterious vignette aired last week on WWE SmackDown, which many fans speculated was teasing Fenix’s arrival. Now, per Fightful Select, those suspicions have been confirmed.

Fenix Bound for SmackDown

According to reports, WWE plans to introduce Fenix on SmackDown, the same brand where his teaser aired. However, an exact debut date remains unknown. The signing comes after weeks of speculation, as Fenix underwent routine medical evaluations before finalizing his WWE deal.

This move marks the latest chapter in the career of the former AEW Tag Team Champion, who made a name for himself alongside his brother Penta as one of AEW’s most dynamic duos. While both men had been linked to WWE interest as early as last year, Fenix’s jump to WWE was delayed due to injury-related contractual obligations in AEW. Initially, Tony Khan extended Fenix’s contract to account for missed time, but he later reversed the decision, ultimately granting Fenix his release.

Another AEW Star Makes the Jump

Fenix now joins a growing list of former AEW stars transitioning to WWE. In the past year alone, WWE has welcomed the likes of Ethan Page, Ricky Saints (formerly Ricky Starks), Shawn Spears, and his own brother Penta, who debuted on WWE Raw in January with a win over Chad Gable.

With Fenix expected to join SmackDown, the question now is: How will WWE utilize one of the most electrifying luchadors in modern wrestling? Could a reunion with Penta be in the cards, or will Fenix carve out his own singles path in WWE? Fans won’t have to wait much longer to find out.

UPDATE

The latest Rey Fenix teaser video:

What Is the Queen of Southside Championship That Mercedes Moné Carries?

Mercedes Moné has been making headlines not just for her dominance in AEW and NJPW, but also for the collection of championship gold she proudly displays. Among her titles is the Queen of Southside Championship, a belt that has left many fans scratching their heads. Unlike the TBS Championship or the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship, which are well-known in mainstream wrestling, the Queen of Southside title carries a legacy that some might not be familiar with.

So, what is this championship, and why is Moné still carrying it?

A Championship With Deep Roots

The Queen of Southside Championship originates from Southside Wrestling, a UK-based independent promotion that was active for nearly a decade. In 2019, Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) acquired Southside’s venues and video library when the promotion ceased operations. As part of this transition, Southside’s championship titles were absorbed into RevPro’s lineage.

According to RevPro owner Andy Quildan, the Queen of Southside Championship was officially unified with the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, meaning that the two titles are technically one and the same.

“I’ve never seen a championship belt cause so much confusion and controversy,” Quildan admitted on the Cultaholic Podcast. “The Queen of Southside belt is a legacy title from Southside Wrestling. When RevPro took over, we inherited all their championships, and they were unified with our own.”

Why Does Mercedes Moné Carry It?

Typically, when championships are unified, only the primary title belt is carried going forward—much like what happened with RevPro’s Tag Team and Heavyweight Championships. However, in this case, Moné has personally chosen to continue carrying the Queen of Southside belt alongside the Undisputed British Women’s Championship.

“It’s similar to boxing,” Quildan explained. “Unified, undisputed champions often carry multiple belts. In wrestling, there’s no commission governing each belt separately, so there’s no risk of the titles being split again. If Mercedes Moné decides she only wants to carry the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, she can. Or, she can choose to be covered in gold.”

Given Moné’s history of embracing championship legacies, it’s no surprise she’s opted to carry the belt. Whether it’s a tribute to Southside Wrestling’s history or simply a statement of dominance, one thing is clear—Mercedes Moné is making sure that wherever she goes, she brings gold with her.

H/T to BritWrestling 

WWE SmackDown Preview 3/21/2025

WWE SmackDown from the Unipol Arena in Bologna Italy.

  • Braun Strowman vs. Jacob Fatu
  • Jade Cargill vs. Liv Morgan
  • Zelina Vega vs. Piper Niven
  • Roman Reigns, CM Punk and Seth Rollins to appear