Author: John Bass

WWE Evolve Set to Debut Tonight (3/5/2025): A New Era for WWE’s Developmental System

WWE is expanding its developmental system with the launch of WWE Evolve, a brand-new show set to debut on March 5, 2025. Designed to bridge the gap between the WWE Performance Center and NXT, Evolve will give rising stars a platform to gain valuable TV experience before making the jump to bigger stages.

The name Evolve is a nod to the former independent wrestling promotion of the same name, once run by Gabe Sapolsky—who is now helping shape this new WWE venture. WWE Hall of Famer and Senior VP of Talent Development Creative, Shawn Michaels, emphasized the brand’s mission in a statement:

“This is something that, as we continue to look at the future health of WWE talent, it’s incumbent on us to find the best and the brightest out there, train them at the Performance Center in Orlando, and take WWE into the future.”

With a mix of former college and pro athletes alongside independent wrestling standouts, WWE Evolve is set to introduce fresh faces and create new opportunities for the next generation of superstars.

How to Watch WWE Evolve

  • Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
  • Time: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT
  • Where to Watch:
    • United States: Exclusively on Tubi
    • International (including the UK): Streaming for free on WWE’s YouTube channel

WWE Evolve: Roster & Commentary Team

While details on matchups remain under wraps, WWE has confirmed several talents set to appear on the premiere episode. The roster includes a mix of former professional athletes and independent wrestling standouts:

Confirmed Roster:

  • Trill London – Former NFL safety (Trill Williams)
  • Tate Wilder – Former Arizona fullback (Case Hatch)
  • Keanu Carver – Former Temple defensive tackle (Kevin Robertson)
  • Drako Knox – Former Mercer tight end (Drako Starks)
  • Harlem Lewis – Former Morehead State linebacker (Vincent Winey)
  • Kylie Rae – Independent wrestling star with experience in AEW, WWE, and Impact Wrestling
  • Zayda Steel – Rising star in WWE’s women’s division

Commentary Team:

  • Robert Stone – NXT Assistant General Manager and former TNA Tag Team Champion (as Robbie E)
  • Peter Rosenberg – WWE panelist and sports personality

A Must-Watch for Wrestling’s Future

With a unique blend of raw athleticism and wrestling pedigree, WWE Evolve looks to be a game-changer in WWE’s developmental pipeline. It will give fans an early look at potential future stars, while offering a fresh, fast-paced presentation that could shake up how WWE builds its talent.

Will Evolve become a key stepping stone to NXT and the main roster? Time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this is where WWE’s next breakout stars will begin their journey.

Stay tuned for updates as WWE Evolve makes its highly anticipated debut!

Update On Cora Jade Following WWE NXT Match Stoppage

Last night’s NXT saw an unfortunate turn of events when Cora Jade’s match against Jordynne Grace had to be stopped early due to a legitimate injury. The abrupt ending left fans concerned, especially given Jade’s history of knee issues, but the 24-year-old quickly took to social media to clarify that her knees were fine—she had simply been “rocked” during the match.

According to Fightful Select, the injury was related to Jade’s head, leading many to speculate that she may have suffered a concussion. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding the severity of the injury or whether it will sideline her for any length of time.

The timing of this setback couldn’t be worse for Jade, who only recently returned from a devastating knee injury that kept her out for nine months. In January 2024, just days before her birthday, she tore her ACL, MCL, and meniscus in her left knee, forcing her to undergo an extensive recovery process. Though she made an early return to the ring, she has been competing with a knee brace ever since.

Beyond potentially missing ring time, this latest injury puts Jade’s upcoming match against TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich at risk. The two were scheduled to clash at TNA Sacrifice on March 14, with Slamovich’s title on the line. Adding to the hype, Slamovich was even spotted in the crowd during Jade’s match against Grace, building anticipation for their showdown. Now, with Jade’s status uncertain, fans will have to wait and see whether the match goes on as planned.

Stay tuned for updates on Cora Jade’s condition and what this means for her highly anticipated title opportunity.

Natalya Set for NWA Debut at Crockett Cup 2025

Veteran WWE star Natalya is set to make her mark in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) as she has officially been announced for the NWA Crockett Cup 2025. The event, which takes place on May 17th at the iconic 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA, will be Natalya’s first-ever appearance in an NWA ring. The news was revealed on Busted Open Radio, adding to the excitement surrounding the upcoming tournament.

This move follows another major announcement for the former WWE Women’s Champion, as she was recently confirmed to compete at Bloodsport, a hard-hitting, hybrid wrestling event that focuses on a more MMA-inspired style. With these appearances, Natalya is proving she’s ready to test herself outside of WWE and showcase her versatility in different wrestling environments.

Natalya’s involvement brings even more prestige to an event already known for its rich history and high-caliber competition.

https://twitter.com/nwa/status/1896970810436231176

WWE NXT Preview 3/4/2025

WWE NXT tonight on TheCW.

  • NXT North American Championship: Tony D’Angelo (c) vs. Shawn Spears
  • Kelani Jordan vs. Jaida Parker
  • Piper Niven & Chelsea Green vs. Zaria & Sol Ruca
  • The Hardys appear

IYO SKY Becomes First Grand Slam Champion Across Two Promotions

The Road to WrestleMania 41 took an unexpected turn last night on WWE RAW, as IYO SKY pulled off a stunning victory over Rhea Ripley to become the new WWE Women’s World Champion.

This marks SKY’s first reign with the prestigious title and cements her legacy as a history-maker in professional wrestling.

A Grand Slam in Two Promotions

With this win, SKY achieves a unique distinction—she is now the first woman to complete a Grand Slam in both WWE and STARDOM.

Before arriving in WWE, SKY dominated STARDOM, winning every major championship the promotion had to offer and becoming its first-ever Grand Slam Champion. Now, with WWE’s Women’s World Championship added to her résumé, she joins an elite group of WWE Grand Slam Champions, including:

  • Charlotte Flair
  • Mercedes Moné (FKA Sasha Banks)
  • Becky Lynch
  • Bayley
  • Rhea Ripley
  • Asuka

What’s Next for the Genius of the Sky?

SKY won’t have much time to celebrate, as her path to WrestleMania is already set. She will defend her newly won Women’s World Championship against Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas.

With the biggest show of the year on the horizon, the question now is: Can SKY hold onto the gold, or will Belair reclaim her spot at the top?

Stay tuned as the road to WrestleMania continues to heat up!

Rey Fenix Becomes a Free Agent, WWE Move Reportedly Imminent

High-flying luchador Rey Fenix is now officially a free agent, according to Fightful Select, and all signs point to an imminent move to WWE. Despite AEW’s ability to extend his contract due to injury time, sources indicate that he is free to sign with any promotion—and WWE seems to be wasting no time preparing for his arrival.

WWE Already Making Plans for Fenix?

Reports suggest that WWE’s merchandise and creative teams are already at work in anticipation of Fenix’s signing, strongly hinting that his debut could be sooner rather than later. If true, this move would bring him into the same company as his brother PENTA, setting up the possibility of a reunited Lucha Bros on WWE’s main roster.

AEW Exit and Controversy

Fenix’s departure comes after a complicated contract situation. Both he and PENTA were reportedly close to leaving AEW last year, but their deals were extended after AEW caught wind of their talks with WWE. Adding to the tension, Fenix previously accused AEW of “inhumane treatment”, though the company privately denied the allegations. It’s also rumored that a non-disparagement agreement may have been included as part of his release, which would prevent him from publicly criticizing AEW.

Missed Creative Opportunities in AEW

Before his contract situation took a turn, Fenix, PENTA, and Pac were reportedly in line for an AEW Trios Championship run. However, once negotiations with WWE came to light, those creative plans were seemingly dropped, leaving Fenix with little direction in AEW’s booking.

With his jaw-dropping aerial offense and lucha libre expertise, Fenix has been a standout performer for years. Now, with WWE apparently rolling out the red carpet, it looks like his next chapter could be unfolding on the biggest stage in sports entertainment.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!

Natalya Set to Make Debut in Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport During WrestleMania 41 Weekend

WWE veteran Natalya is stepping into unfamiliar territory this April as she makes her debut at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XIII, a hard-hitting, no-ropes event promoted by Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). The event will take place on April 17, 2025, just two days before WrestleMania 41, at the Pearl Concert Theater in Nevada.

A New Challenge for the Queen of Harts

Josh Barnett took to social media to announce Natalya’s participation, emphasizing her roots in the legendary Hart Dungeon, where she trained in the art of submission wrestling.

“The Queen of Harts. A member of the legacy-filled Hart family. She spent time in the Hart Dungeon learning how to crank, rip, and tear wrestlers apart. You could say she was BORN for this. Will she torture her opponent to the point of submission, or will it be her hung from the rack? What will Bloodsport bring out of this veteran wrestler?”

Natalya’s inclusion in the event is a historic one, as it marks her first match outside of WWE since 2007. Known for her technical prowess, submission skills, and resilience, she is set to bring a new dynamic to Bloodsport’s unique, no-pins, knockout-or-submission-only format.

WWE Stars Making Their Mark in Bloodsport

GCW’s Bloodsport has increasingly become a stage for WWE talent to showcase their skills in a different environment. In October 2024, Charlie Dempsey and Karmen Petrovic competed at Bloodsport XII, proving that WWE stars can thrive in the no-holds-barred setting.

Joining Natalya at Bloodsport XIII will be other notable names, including former WWE stars Timothy Thatcher and Simon Gotch, as well as NJPW’s Tom Lawlor.

With WrestleMania 41 weekend bringing the entire wrestling world to Las Vegas, Bloodsport XIII is shaping up to be a must-see event. How will Natalya adapt to the brutal, unforgiving nature of Bloodsport? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out.

WWE Raw Preview 3/3/2025

WWE Raw airs live tonight globally on Netflix from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York beginning at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

  • Fallout from Elimination Chamber
  • WWE Women’s World Championship: Rhea Ripley (c) vs. IYO SKY
  • WWE World Tag Team Championship: The War Raiders (Erik and Ivar) (c) vs. American Made (Brutus Creed and Julius Creed)
  • WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Ivy Nile
  • WW World Heavyweight Champion Gunther to appear
  • Bianca Belair to appear
  • Seth Rollins to appear
  • CM Punk to appear

Faith in the Ring: How UK Church Uses Pro Wrestling to Share the Gospel

Professional wrestling and church services might seem like an unlikely pairing, but for St. Peter’s Church in Shipley, UK, the two go hand in hand. Every month, the church transforms into an arena for Kingdom Wrestling, a faith-based wrestling promotion that blends high-flying action with an even higher message—the Gospel.

Wrestling with Purpose

Founded in 2018 by Gareth “Angel” Thompson, Kingdom Wrestling isn’t just about putting on a show—it’s a ministry. Thompson and his team use the classic wrestling trope of good versus evil to connect with audiences, drawing parallels to biblical teachings. Whether attendees are regular churchgoers or newcomers stepping into the building for the first time, the goal remains the same: to share the message of Jesus Christ in a unique and engaging way.

In an interview with Channel 5 News, Thompson explained how wrestling serves as the perfect platform to capture people’s attention:

“Whenever I shared my story with people to tell them about what Jesus has done for me, when I told them I was a wrestler, they paid attention.”

From Hardship to Hope

Thompson’s personal journey is one of resilience and redemption. His early life was filled with hardship—he endured abuse as a child, his father left, and his mother struggled with alcohol. By the age of 15, he found himself homeless, living in a skip (dumpster).

But wrestling provided an escape. Spending Fridays at his grandmother’s house, he found solace in World of Sport and later the WWF, dreaming of one day stepping into the ring himself. Now, he’s not just living that dream—he’s using it to inspire others, proving that faith and perseverance can change lives.

Bringing the Fight to the Faithful

With each event, Kingdom Wrestling delivers action-packed matches infused with meaningful storytelling. Wrestlers embody the classic battle between good and evil, echoing themes found in scripture. The events not only entertain but also serve as a way to reach those who may never have considered attending a church service.

By combining faith and wrestling, Kingdom Wrestling is breaking barriers and showing that inspiration can come from anywhere—even inside the squared circle.

R-Truth Struggles to Cope with John Cena’s Shocking Heel Turn at WWE Elimination Chamber

John Cena’s shocking heel turn at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025 has left the WWE Universe stunned—but perhaps no one is more affected than R-Truth. A longtime admirer of Cena, Truth has often parodied and mimicked the 16-time world champion, even calling him his childhood hero. Now, with Cena embracing the dark side in brutal fashion, Truth is struggling to accept the change.

Denial Runs Deep: “Say It Ain’t So, John”

Following Cena’s vicious assault on Cody Rhodes inside the Elimination Chamber, Truth took to social media to express his disbelief. In one of his posts on X (formerly Twitter), he questioned why Cena would do such a thing. He even went so far as to suggest that the brutal images of a bloodied Cody Rhodes were AI-generated, seemingly unable to process the reality of Cena’s betrayal.

Truth also made a subtle but telling change to his X profile header, which now reads: “Say it ain’t so, John.” It’s clear that Cena’s heel turn has hit Truth on a deeply personal level.

A Long and Complicated History

Truth and Cena’s history goes back nearly two decades. From their battles over the WWE Championship to their moments of friendship and rivalry, their paths have intertwined many times. Interestingly, Truth recently revealed that he and Cena recorded a rap song together, dispelling rumors that there was any real-life tension between them.

However, one fan on X reminded Truth of his own dark past, posting a throwback image of Truth smoking a cigarette during his 2011 heel run on Monday Night Raw. The implication? That Truth knows exactly what it’s like to embrace villainy, even if he refuses to accept Cena’s current transformation.

Could Truth Get Involved in Cena’s Feud with Cody Rhodes?

While Cena’s betrayal of Rhodes is set to play a major role in the ongoing Road to WrestleMania 41, Truth’s recent interactions with Cody on Raw raise an interesting question—could he somehow be pulled into this high-profile feud?

Cena and Truth last shared a ring on the Raw after WrestleMania 40, teaming with The Miz to defeat The Judgment Day. But with Cena now aligned with The Rock and seemingly embracing a darker persona, Truth may find himself at a crossroads. Will he stand against his former hero, or will he try to reason with the man who once inspired him?

One thing is certain: R-Truth isn’t ready to accept this new version of John Cena just yet.

UPDATE

“Just trying to stay positive,” Truth wrote on social media, sharing the music video for his new single “For Real.” The single was released on February 28, just a day before Cena joined “The Final Boss” Dwayne Johnson’s quest to take Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes’s soul.