Author: John Bass

Saraya Says Her Wrestling Career Is Ending “Very Soon” – Wants to Help AEW Women’s Division

Former AEW Women’s World Champion Saraya has revealed that her time in professional wrestling is nearing its end. Speaking with Rick Ucchino of Sports Illustrated, the ex-WWE Divas Champion shared that she plans to step away from the ring in the near future, but she’s focused on uplifting the AEW women’s division before she leaves.

“I’m letting people beat me, left, right and center. I was on a losing streak, but I just wanted people to get their rub. I want to uplift everybody. I’m not gonna be in wrestling forever. I’m coming to the end of it and it’s very soon. And I don’t wanna go out being like, I need to be on top.”

Saraya’s AEW Run and Focus on Elevating Others

Saraya signed with AEW in the fall of 2022, returning to in-ring competition after a five-year retirement due to a career-threatening neck injury. Since then, she has been vocal about her mission to help grow AEW’s women’s division in any way she can.

During her time in AEW, Saraya worked closely with Toni Storm and Harley Cameron, mentoring them on promos and character work. She recalled how Storm, now one of AEW’s most beloved personalities, initially struggled with confidence on the microphone.

“I just remember when we were in a group, me and Ruby [Soho] were helping [Toni] with promos. She would just have one line and be terrified to do this line. She’d be going over it and over it and over it, while me and Ruby had all these lines.”

Saraya isn’t taking credit for Storm’s rise, but she’s proud to have played a small role in helping her find confidence. She also gave credit to AEW personality RJ City for assisting in the development of Storm’s “Timeless” persona, which has since become one of AEW’s most entertaining gimmicks.

“She’s one of the best promos and characters, I think, of all time. And she’s one of my favorites altogether right now. She is making wrestling fun and exciting, and I love that. It’s just funny seeing her from two years ago… when she was scared to pick up a microphone.”

Saraya also reflected on her time working with Harley Cameron, who has gained popularity as an energetic babyface. Interestingly, Saraya felt the best way to help Cameron was to step away and let her shine on her own.

“People love her. I’m like, ‘I need to take a break. And then maybe, eventually, I can come back and we can go into a story where I’m just trying to hold you back again, and then you get your big pin on me.’ That’s the idea that I wanted. I don’t think we’re doing that now, but I said the best thing I can do is take a step back.”

Saraya’s AEW Status and Future

Saraya last competed in October 2023 and has since been absent from AEW television. Her break has allowed her to focus on her book tour and other outside projects, but she assured fans that she’s ready to return whenever the opportunity arises.

She won the AEW Women’s World Championship at All In: London 2023, defeating Hikaru Shida, but held the title for just 44 days before dropping it back to Shida.

With her AEW contract set to expire in September, the clock is ticking on Saraya’s in-ring future. While she hasn’t given an exact retirement date, her comments make it clear that the end is near.

What’s Next for Saraya?

As she prepares to close the chapter on her wrestling career, Saraya seems content with her contributions to the industry. Whether she remains involved in AEW in a non-wrestling capacity or steps away entirely, her impact—both in WWE and AEW—won’t be forgotten.

Homicide Announces Retirement Due to Health Issues, Wrestles Final Match

The wrestling world was left stunned earlier this month when Homicide, a former Ring of Honor World Champion and TNA Tag Team Champion, revealed that he would be stepping away from the ring. His farewell match took place on March 20, where he teamed with former WWE star Bull James against TNA’s Mike Santana and Afa Jr. However, while fans initially speculated on why Homicide was retiring while still actively competing, he has now provided clarity on his decision.

Homicide Reveals Health Concerns Behind Retirement

One day before his final match, Homicide took to Facebook to explain that his retirement is due to a serious health issue—a cyst on his brain that has worsened over time.

“Reason I’m leaving cause I went to my Doctor and found cyst my brain,” Homicide shared. “Had it for months getting worst. My vision, speech is bad. Cause the hard hitting getting knock out and hitting a plane to travel.”

The 46-year-old veteran has built a reputation for his hard-hitting, no-nonsense style, competing in countless brutal battles throughout his career. Unfortunately, the physical toll of his in-ring wars has now led him to step away for the sake of his health.

A Celebration, Not a Goodbye

Despite the circumstances, Homicide made it clear that he wanted his final match to be a celebration rather than a somber farewell.

“I want people to party, and smile, except for Afa Jr.,” Homicide joked. “I’m survivor, I always win bS battles, bottom my heart. Thank you for your support. This not a goodbye. This is I see you later.”

Homicide’s contributions to professional wrestling, particularly in Ring of Honor, TNA, and the independent scene, have left an undeniable mark on the industry. His legacy of grit, passion, and intensity will continue to inspire future generations.

AEW Honors Homicide’s Career

For fans looking to relive some of Homicide’s greatest moments, AEW has released a special episode of “ROH Timelines: Homicide” on their YouTube channel. The episode highlights his incredible career in Ring of Honor, including classic matches against Bryan Danielson and other top names.

A Wrestling Legend Steps Away

While his in-ring career has come to an end, Homicide’s impact on wrestling will never be forgotten. Whether he stays involved behind the scenes or simply enjoys a well-earned rest, his influence remains undeniable.

Kamala Reportedly Considered for WWE Hall of Fame 2025 Induction

WWE is reportedly considering the late James “Kamala” Harris for induction into the Hall of Fame Class of 2025, according to WrestleVotes. While WWE has yet to make an official announcement, the legendary “Ugandan Giant” could soon be honored among the all-time greats.

A Unique and Unforgettable Legacy

Kamala first arrived in WWE in 1984, making an immediate impact as a fearsome, face-painted competitor with a mysterious aura. With his imposing presence and unique character, he quickly became a top adversary for WWE Champion Hulk Hogan and continued his feud with Andre the Giant, carrying over their battles from Mid-South Wrestling. His initial WWE run was brief, but he returned in 1986 for another rivalry with Hogan before departing again in 1987 due to a pay dispute.

After bouncing between promotions, Kamala had a notable WWE run from 1992 to 1993, feuding with the likes of Randy Savage and The Undertaker. He later made sporadic WWE appearances in the early 2000s and even had a surprising match in Ring of Honor in 2006, challenging Bryan Danielson for the ROH World Championship. His career also included a brief stint in WCW as a member of Kevin Sullivan’s Dungeon of Doom.

A Warrior in and out of the Ring

Despite his success in wrestling, Kamala’s later years were marked by significant health struggles. Complications from high blood pressure and diabetes ultimately led to both of his legs being amputated. He sadly passed away in August 2020 at the age of 70 due to cardiac arrest, compounded by diabetes and COVID-19.

Hall of Fame Class of 2025

If Kamala’s induction is confirmed, he will join an already impressive class that includes Triple H, Michelle McCool, and Lex Luger. The ceremony is set to take place on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Fontainebleau Las Vegas during WrestleMania Week. The Natural Disasters are expected to be announced shortly.

Kamala’s contributions to wrestling, from his unforgettable character work to his rivalries with some of WWE’s biggest names, make him a deserving candidate for Hall of Fame recognition. Fans will now wait for WWE’s official word on whether “The Ugandan Giant” will finally take his place among wrestling’s legends.

TNA Impact Preview 3/20/2025

TNA Wrestling will present a new episode of Impact tonight on AXS TV, featuring the fallout from Sacrifice and more. The lineup includes:

  • Joe Hendry & Elijah vs. The System (Eddie Edwards & Brian Myers)
  • Mustafa Ali vs. Mike Santana
  • The Northern Armory vs. The Rascalz
  • Mance Warner vs. TBD
  • Nic & Ryan Nemeth address Sacrifice
  • First Class Penthouse with Chavo Guerrero Jr
  • Championship Celebration by Elegance
  • Masha Slamovich kicks off the show

ROH TV Preview 3/20/2025

Ring of Honor will present a new episode of ROH TV tonight on HonorClub, with several matches announced. The lineup includes:

  • ROH World Television Championship: Komander (c) vs. Dark Panther
  • Winner Receives Future ROH World TV Championship Shot: Kevin Knight vs. AR Fox
  • La Catalina vs. Viva Van
  • Mistico, Neon, & Fuego vs. Volador Jr, Rugido, & Hechicero
  • QT Marshall & Aaron Solo vs. Top Flight
  • Satnam Singh vs. TBA
  • The Beast Mortos & Dralistico vs. TBA

Seth Rollins to Guest Host Good Morning Football—Plus His Thoughts on Becky Lynch’s Return and WrestleMania

Seth Rollins is taking his talents from the squared circle to the NFL Network next week. In a recent interview with Front Office Sports, Rollins confirmed that he will be guest hosting Good Morning Football from March 24 to March 26. The WWE World Heavyweight Champion has appeared on the show before and is good friends with co-host Kyle Brandt, making this a natural fit.

Rollins on His Friendship with Kyle Brandt

Rollins and Brandt bonded over their shared love of football and professional wrestling, particularly their mutual passion for the Chicago Bears. Rollins spoke about how their friendship developed over time:

“Kyle and I probably admired each other from afar for a while, and then the opportunity came up to go on Good Morning Football to talk football and promote WWE. We got to meet, hang out, and talk Bears and wrestling. He’s got the energy that WWE brings to the table—he’s already there with it.”

Stepping into the Host’s Chair

Rollins, known for his confident mic skills in WWE, is eager to take on the hosting gig. He admits he loves to talk—especially about football—and sees this as a great opportunity to do just that.

“I love hearing myself talk, and I love football. I’ve gone down to the Super Bowl, done Radio Row, and found myself guest spots on all these shows talking about football and the Bears. I’ve really enjoyed it—meeting the people, enjoying the process.”

Will Becky Lynch Return to WWE?

Beyond his upcoming Good Morning Football appearance, Rollins also addressed speculation about the return of his wife, Becky Lynch. While Lynch has been absent from WWE in recent months, Rollins assured fans that she isn’t done just yet.

“I don’t think we’ve seen the last of her in a WWE ring. When the timing is right, she’ll be back. I know the fans are looking forward to it. I just enjoy having my wife on the road with me, so I’ll be excited about it as well. But I’m not exactly sure what the timing is on that.”

WrestleMania 41: Where Will Rollins vs. Reigns vs. Punk Land on the Card?

There’s been plenty of speculation about where Rollins’ rumored Triple Threat match against Roman Reigns and CM Punk will be placed on the WrestleMania 41 card. Rollins, however, isn’t concerned about labels like “main event.”

“I don’t think it’s terribly important where it sits on the card. Because to be honest with you, you just look at the names in that match, and it’s a main event. It doesn’t really matter where it sits.”

With Rollins making waves both in and out of the ring, it’s shaping up to be a huge WrestleMania season for the Visionary.

Would AEW Possibly Let Sting Induct Lex Luger Into WWE Hall Of Fame

Sting may not be done with WWE appearances just yet, despite officially retiring from in-ring competition and signing a long-term deal with AEW. According to Fightful Select, WWE is reportedly interested in having “The Icon” induct his longtime friend and former rival, Lex Luger, into the Hall of Fame during WrestleMania 41 weekend.

Luger himself has expressed his wish for both Sting and Diamond Dallas Page to be the ones to induct him, citing their deep personal and professional connections. While it remains unclear whether AEW would need to approve Sting’s involvement, it’s worth noting that his current AEW contract is described as similar to a WWE Legends deal—meaning he remains affiliated with the company but is not expected to wrestle.

Sting’s Expanded WrestleMania Weekend Plans

Originally, Sting was scheduled for a limited appearance in Las Vegas during WrestleMania week, but that has reportedly expanded. Whether that has anything to do with a potential Hall of Fame induction role remains unknown, but the timing is certainly interesting.

Sting officially retired at AEW Revolution 2024, ending his legendary career on a high note. While he’s no longer stepping into the ring, his ongoing AEW deal ensures he stays involved with the promotion in some capacity.

A Long-Awaited Hall of Fame Induction for Lex Luger

Luger, one of the most iconic stars of the ’80s and ’90s, will finally take his place in the WWE Hall of Fame on April 18, 2025, alongside Triple H and Michelle McCool. He’s also been working closely with DDP, who has helped him regain strength in hopes of one day walking again.

Another rumored induction for this year’s class is The Natural Disasters—the powerhouse tag team of Earthquake and Typhoon—but WWE has yet to confirm their inclusion.

Will WWE and AEW Work Together?

If WWE follows through with inviting Sting, it would be a rare case of the two promotions cooperating. AEW allowed Ric Flair to appear for WWE’s tribute to Bray Wyatt, so there’s some precedent for flexibility. But whether AEW would approve Sting’s involvement remains to be seen.

Would you like to see Sting induct Luger into the WWE Hall of Fame? Let us know in the comments!

Former WWE Champion Suspended from Wrestling in Tijuana for 180 Days

A former WWE Champion has found himself in hot water south of the border.

Alberto El Patrón (formerly known as Alberto Del Rio in WWE) has been suspended from wrestling in Tijuana, Mexico, for 180 days. The decision was handed down by the Tijuana Wrestling Commission following a controversial incident at a recent event.

Translated from Spanish by Google

“Alberto El Patrón (also known as Alberto del Río in WWE) has been suspended by the Tijuana Commission for six months due to what happened at a AAA event this past Friday.

During his main event match against Dr. Wagner Jr., Alberto confronted a fan who threw several coins at him, which angered him and prompted him to go look for him in the audience.

This got to the point where El Patrón threw a chair at the fan, only to be hit with another chair himself, starting a fight in which an elderly woman was injured and had to be taken to the hospital.

He will not be able to fight in Tijuana for the next 180 days.”

Below is a statement from the Tijuana Commission:

“In the city of Tijuana, Baja California, on the 17th day of March 2025, in the facilities of the honorable wrestling commission, located at 12421 Diaz Ordaz Boulevard, estate El Paraiso, zip code 22440, in an extraordinary meeting and with the presence of a legal quorum, it was determined that in accordance with the established in the wrestling regulations for the city of Tijuana, Baja California, it was determined that the wrestling regulations for the city of Tijuana, Baja California, would be in effect on the 17th day of March, 2025.
Tijuana Baja California.

The professional wrestler Alberto Del Rio is suspended for 180 days in the city of Tijuana.
In the city of Tijuana, Baja California on the 17th day of the month of March, 2025, the present notice is hereby given, for all the effects that may be applicable, at the offices of the Honorable Wrestling Commission, in the city of Tijuana, Baja California”.

While specific details about what led to the suspension remain unclear, it’s not the first time El Patrón has faced issues outside the ring. The former WWE Champion has had a history of controversies throughout his career, both professionally and personally. This latest development could have significant implications for his status in the Mexican wrestling scene, as Tijuana is a major hub for lucha libre promotions.

El Patrón has continued to wrestle on the independent circuit following his last WWE run, making appearances in various promotions across the U.S. and Mexico. However, this suspension could limit his opportunities in one of Mexico’s most active wrestling markets.

It remains to be seen if El Patrón will address the suspension publicly or if any appeals will be made. For now, he will have to sit on the sidelines in Tijuana for the next six months.

AEW Dynamite Preview 3/19/2025

AEW Dynamite airs live tonight on TBS and Max from the Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Ralston, Nebraska just outside of Omaha.

  • AEW World Championship – Street Fight: Jon Moxley (c) vs. Adam Copeland
  • International Championship Eliminator 4-Way Match: Orange Cassidy vs. Mark Davis vs. Ricochet vs. “Speedball” Mike Bailey
  • Megan Bayne vs. Kris Statlander

A blizzard is expected to hit the Omaha, Nebraska area today, coinciding with the AEW Dynamite TV tapings.

According to local reports, rain will transition to snow during the morning commute, with wind gusts reaching 40-50 MPH.

Blizzard conditions will persist throughout the day, with snow and wind gusts up to 60 MPH, potentially affecting both the morning and evening commutes. Local schools have already been shut down.

AEW President Tony Khan has taken to X to announce that all currently advertised AEW talent scheduled for this week’s episode of Dynamite are currently in Omaha.

What’s Going On with Hikuleo and Lance Anoa’i in WWE?

Back in 2024, WWE made a couple of intriguing signings that had fans speculating about the future of The Bloodline. The company brought in former NJPW star Hikuleo—brother of Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa—and former MLW standout Lance Anoa’i, a direct cousin of Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, and Jimmy Uso. Given their family ties, it seemed like a natural fit for them to join the dominant faction. However, nearly a year later, neither man has appeared on WWE television, leading to growing questions about their status.

On the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided an update on both Hikuleo and Anoa’i, but even he seemed uncertain about WWE’s plans. Meltzer did confirm that Hikuleo is under contract, despite some speculation to the contrary. However, the reason behind his absence remains a mystery.

“He’s been in Orlando forever,” Meltzer noted. “They just haven’t decided… I don’t know what the deal is. Maybe they’re waiting until he’s ready for the main roster and don’t want to put him in NXT early. I don’t know… but they have a reason.”

One thing Meltzer made clear is that WWE remains high on Hikuleo, and he hasn’t heard any negative reports about the 6’8″ powerhouse. That said, the same can’t be said for Lance Anoa’i. While Anoa’i was initially believed to be off TV due to an injury, Meltzer mentioned that there has been some criticism of his potential within the company, though he didn’t specify exactly what those concerns were.

With The Bloodline storyline continuing to evolve, it’s possible WWE is waiting for the right moment to introduce Hikuleo—or perhaps they have other plans entirely. As for Anoa’i, his WWE future seems a little more uncertain at this point. Either way, fans will have to keep watching to see if these two ever make their long-awaited debuts.