Author: John Bass

Backstage Update On Situation Between TNA & PCO After Incident At GCW Show

The wrestling world is buzzing after a chaotic weekend that included major events like TNA Genesis and The People vs. GCW pay-per-views. At the center of the drama is veteran wrestler PCO, whose shocking actions at the GCW event have sent shockwaves through both promotions.

PCO, who won the opening rumble match at The People vs. GCW, stunned fans by smashing his TNA Digital Media Championship belt and cutting a fiery promo on TNA. Before he could go further, PCO was cut off mid-promo, but the damage—both literal and figurative—had already been done. His actions have led to a wave of speculation about his frustrations with TNA, with many questioning what pushed him to this breaking point.

The Contract Saga: Why PCO is Reportedly Upset

On a recent episode of “Wrestling Observer Radio”, Dave Meltzer shed light on what might have led to PCO’s shocking outburst. According to Meltzer, it all comes down to a messy series of contract negotiations with TNA.

Meltzer explained that PCO was initially offered a new contract by TNA, which he verbally agreed to but had not yet signed. However, things took a turn when TNA rescinded the original offer and presented him with a revised deal for less money. Despite the pay cut, PCO reportedly accepted the new terms. But that wasn’t the end of the ordeal.

TNA allegedly came back again, this time informing PCO that they would not be renewing his contract at all. On top of that, they asked him to drop the Digital Media Championship before his departure. This series of back-and-forth negotiations, coupled with TNA’s recent cost-cutting measures that have impacted other talents as well, likely left PCO feeling disrespected and undervalued.

Miscommunication Between GCW and TNA

PCO’s actions at The People vs. GCW have left both promotions scrambling. GCW has claimed they were unaware of PCO’s intentions to destroy the TNA Digital Media Championship belt, assuming his actions were part of a storyline that would eventually play out on TNA programming.

TNA, however, is reportedly livid about the incident, with sources indicating that PCO’s stunt has effectively burned any remaining bridges between him and the company. While TNA had planned for PCO to lose the title at their upcoming San Antonio tapings, the company has allegedly had no contact with him since December, adding to the confusion.

What’s Next for PCO?

At this point, it seems unlikely that PCO will return to TNA, given the fallout from his actions and the apparent breakdown in communication between the two sides. PCO’s profile has been removed from the promotion’s roster section of its website. For GCW, the situation could be seen as a boost in notoriety, as the chaotic moment has generated significant buzz.

PCO, known for his unpredictable and wild persona, has always thrived in environments where he can push boundaries. Whether this incident leads to opportunities in other promotions or further isolates him from the wrestling mainstream remains to be seen.

The Bigger Picture

This incident highlights the challenges wrestlers face when navigating contract negotiations in a rapidly changing wrestling landscape. For TNA, the controversy is a reminder of the risks associated with cost-cutting measures, which can alienate talent and lead to public relations nightmares.

As for fans, PCO’s shocking actions at The People vs. GCW will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about moments of the year, cementing his status as a wrestler who refuses to play by the rules.

Corey Graves Returns to NXT Commentary After Brief Absence

It didn’t take long for Corey Graves to find his way back behind the microphone. After a one-week absence from WWE programming, Graves made his return to the commentary table on last night’s episode of NXT, stepping into his new role with an air of enthusiasm and a touch of grit.

Graves had been vocal on social media about his frustration after being shifted from the main roster commentary team to NXT—a move that caught many fans off guard. However, his return to NXT was marked by a confident statement that set the tone for the evening.

“I am right where I want to be,” Graves declared as the show kicked off. “Where passion is everything and only the hungry survive, and pro wrestling never stopped being cool.”

https://twitter.com/PWUnlimited/status/1881870446934766049

A Fresh Start or a Reluctant Transition?

While Graves’ comments last night seemed to convey pride in being part of the NXT brand, his initial reaction to the move painted a more complicated picture. The shift from calling flagship shows like Raw and SmackDown to the developmental brand appeared to come as a disappointment for the veteran commentator, who has been a staple of WWE programming for years. His brief absence led to speculation among fans about whether the transition was entirely smooth.

Despite the initial frustration, it seems Graves is now embracing the opportunity to lend his voice to NXT’s unique energy. The black-and-gold brand has long been a platform for hungry up-and-coming Superstars, and Graves’ passionate commentary style could help elevate the show’s growing roster of talent.

A Voice That Resonates

Corey Graves has built a reputation as one of WWE’s most dynamic and opinionated commentators. His sharp wit and deep knowledge of the business have made him a standout presence on the headset. While moving from WWE’s main roster to NXT may have seemed like a step down at first glance, his return to the developmental brand could breathe new life into the product, particularly as NXT continues to build momentum heading into 2025.

It’s worth noting that Graves himself has a deep connection to NXT. Before transitioning to commentary, he competed as a wrestler on the brand during its early days, making his return last night feel somewhat full-circle.

What’s Next for Corey Graves and NXT?

Graves’ return to NXT could signify a renewed focus on the commentary team as WWE looks to keep the brand competitive in an increasingly stacked wrestling landscape. Whether he’ll be a long-term fixture on Tuesday nights remains to be seen, but his passion for the business is undeniable.

For now, Corey Graves is back where “pro wrestling never stopped being cool,” and fans can expect his signature mix of sarcasm and insight to add a spark to NXT’s weekly broadcasts.

WWE World Returns During WrestleMania Week in Las Vegas – Here’s What Fans Can Expect

WWE has officially announced the return of WWE World, its fan-focused multi-day convention, during WrestleMania 41 week in Las Vegas. After its successful debut in 2024, WWE World is back, promising five days of immersive wrestling experiences from Thursday, April 17, to Monday, April 21, 2025.

The event will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall and will feature the largest WWE Superstore in WrestleMania history—a dream for collectors and merch enthusiasts. Tickets for WWE World go on sale Monday, February 3, at 12 PM ET/9 AM PT, with an exclusive pre-sale starting Wednesday, January 29, at 12 PM ET/9 AM PT on FanaticsEvents.com/WWE.

What Fans Can Look Forward To

In a press release accompanying the announcement, WWE teased an action-packed lineup of activities that fans won’t want to miss. Here’s what to expect:

  • Superstar Roundtables & Live Podcasts: Fans will get a chance to watch live discussions and recordings with some of WWE’s biggest names on the central main stage.
  • Memorabilia & Autograph Sessions: Fanatics Live will host live auctions of WWE memorabilia, alongside autograph sessions and meet-and-greets with current stars and wrestling legends.
  • Exclusive Merch: WWE World promises exclusive merchandise that will only be available at the event, making it a must-visit for collectors.
  • Immersive Exhibits: Celebrate over four decades of WrestleMania history with exhibits and memorabilia showcasing key moments from WWE’s flagship event.

While WWE hasn’t yet revealed which Superstars will participate in meet-and-greets this year, last year’s WWE World featured big names like Chelsea Green, Johnny Gargano, Andrade, and former NXT Champion Trick Williams. Fans can expect another star-studded lineup for 2025, given WWE’s track record of delivering memorable fan experiences.

WWE & Fanatics Team Up Again

The return of WWE World highlights WWE’s growing partnership with Fanatics, the global leader in licensed sports merchandise and memorabilia. Together, they’ve been creating exclusive WWE products and enhancing fan experiences through live events and digital activations. WWE World is the latest extension of this collaboration, giving fans a one-of-a-kind way to connect with their favorite Superstars.

Don’t Miss Out!

With WrestleMania 41 set to electrify Las Vegas, WWE World is shaping up to be the perfect complement to the Showcase of the Immortals. Whether you’re looking for exclusive merch, autographs, or the chance to soak in WrestleMania history, this five-day extravaganza promises something for everyone.

Mark your calendars, secure your tickets early, and get ready to dive into the ultimate WWE fan experience in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

WWE NXT Preview 1/21/2025

WWE NXT live tonight on The CW.

  • NXT Championship Match: Oba Femi vs. Eddy Thorpe
  • NXT North American Championship Match: Tony D’Angelo vs. Ridge Holland
  • NXT Women’s Champion Giulia to appear
  • Roxanne Perez has dared Bayley to show up
https://twitter.com/roxanne_wwe/status/1881527366155215303

What’s Going on with Britt Baker in AEW? Sorting Fact from Fiction

As we previously reported, Baker’s days on AEW programming may have already come to an end. Speculation around Britt Baker’s status with AEW has been swirling ever since her last televised appearance in November 2024. Reports and rumors have suggested everything from backstage heat to Tony Khan being “fed up” with the former AEW Women’s World Champion. However, as often happens in the wrestling world, the truth seems to be far less dramatic than the headlines suggest.

Recent discussions on Wrestling Observer Radio with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez provided some clarity on Baker’s situation. According to Meltzer, while there may be some underlying truths to certain reports, the narrative has been “blown way out of proportion.”

The Backstage Buzz

The most talked-about rumor involves Baker’s alleged unpopularity backstage. Some reports claim she’s “wildly unpopular” in the women’s locker room and territorial about her position in AEW’s women’s division. Meltzer and Alvarez pushed back on this idea, noting that while Baker is indeed a polarizing figure, the claim that “nobody” likes her is simply false.

Alvarez explained how the story snowballed into something bigger than it actually is. According to him, it all started when Wade Keller briefly discussed Baker’s situation on his podcast. From there, other outlets began picking up the story and publishing increasingly exaggerated headlines, leading to rumors that Baker was “done” with AEW altogether.

Is Tony Khan “Fed Up” with Britt Baker?

Another major point of speculation is that Tony Khan has grown tired of Baker and has chosen to focus on other talents instead. While it’s true that Baker hasn’t been utilized recently, Alvarez noted that no one he spoke to within AEW indicated that Khan has written her off for good. Instead, it appears to be more of a creative decision, with no concrete explanation provided as to why Baker hasn’t been on TV.

Britt Baker’s Contract Status

Meltzer and Alvarez both confirmed that Baker remains under contract with AEW for “quite a while.” This dispels any rumors that her absence is tied to contract disputes or that she’s preparing to leave the company. According to Alvarez, “Nobody said she’s not coming back. It’s not like she’s never going to be used again.”

What’s Next for Britt Baker?

While her current absence has sparked plenty of debate, Britt Baker’s future in AEW is ultimately up to Tony Khan. For now, it seems the situation isn’t nearly as dire as some reports have made it out to be. As one of AEW’s cornerstone stars, Baker has played a pivotal role in establishing the women’s division since the company’s inception. Whether fans love or hate her, there’s no denying her impact.

It’s not uncommon for wrestlers to take a step back from TV, either to recharge creatively or to make room for other talent. With her contract still in place, it’s likely only a matter of time before we see the DMD back in action.

Final Thoughts

The wrestling rumor mill has a habit of taking a kernel of truth and turning it into a full-blown soap opera. While it’s clear that Britt Baker is a polarizing figure in AEW, the reports of widespread hatred or Tony Khan’s outright refusal to use her seem to be overblown.

For now, the best course of action is to wait and see what AEW has planned for Baker. Whether she returns as a babyface or a heel, it’s safe to say her next move will have the wrestling world talking once again.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for all the latest updates on Britt Baker, AEW, and the ever-evolving wrestling landscape!

ROH Supercard of Honor 2025 May Skip WrestleMania Weekend in Las Vegas

WrestleMania weekend has become a magnet for wrestling fans and promotions alike, with companies from across the globe flocking to the host city to put on their own shows and ride the wave of wrestling’s biggest annual event. However, as WrestleMania 41 gears up to take over Las Vegas, Nevada, in 2025, it seems Ring of Honor (ROH) may not be part of the festivities.

According to a report from WrestleZone, sources in Las Vegas have indicated that the Supercard of Honor—one of ROH’s marquee events—will not be taking place during WrestleMania weekend. Initial plans reportedly targeted a venue near Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas, with the event set to coincide with Easter weekend. However, those plans have been scrapped, leaving the future location and date for the Supercard of Honor in limbo. AEW and ROH officials have yet to provide an explanation for the sudden change of plans.

While the idea of Supercard of Honor happening during WrestleMania weekend seems unlikely for now, fans shouldn’t lose hope. It was noted that the event could still take place on a different weekend and possibly in another city. ROH has a history of adjusting the timing of Supercard of Honor under certain circumstances. For example, the 2010 and 2011 editions were pushed to May, taking place in Manhattan, New York, and Chicago, Illinois, rather than aligning with WrestleMania weekends in Phoenix (26) or Atlanta (27).

Of course, ROH has also made its mark on WrestleMania weekends in the past, most notably teaming up with NJPW for the G1 Supercard at Madison Square Garden in 2019. That show ran alongside WrestleMania 35 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, demonstrating ROH’s ability to capitalize on the heightened buzz that WrestleMania brings.

This latest shake-up raises questions about the future of the Supercard of Honor and its positioning as a key event on ROH’s calendar. Could it still make a surprise appearance during WrestleMania weekend, or will it shift to a different date and venue entirely? As the company continues to rebuild under AEW’s ownership, decisions like this may reflect a broader strategy for how ROH is presented in the crowded wrestling landscape.

With the details still up in the air, fans will need to stay tuned for updates on what’s next for Supercard of Honor. One thing is certain: WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas is shaping up to be a spectacle with or without ROH, as numerous promotions have already announced their plans to invade Sin City. Whether ROH chooses to join the party or take a different path, the 2025 wrestling calendar is bound to deliver excitement on all fronts.

Keep an eye on WrestlingNewsBlog.com for all the latest developments regarding ROH, WrestleMania weekend, and more!

Bayley Switches From SmackDown to Raw, Declares for the 2025 Royal Rumble

Bayley is back where it all began for her main roster career—on WWE Raw. The announcement of her roster move was first made by WWE official Adam Pearce, who confirmed the change during the “transfer window” via X (formerly known as Twitter). Bayley, however, made it official herself during a backstage segment on Raw, shortly before stepping into the ring for a match against WWE SmackDown’s Nia Jax.

In addition to addressing her return to Raw, Bayley took the opportunity to make another big announcement—she’s officially entering the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble match. Fans will remember that Bayley won last year’s Rumble and used that victory to dethrone her former Damage CTRL ally, IYO SKY, for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40. However, Bayley’s title reign came to an end at SummerSlam when Nia Jax captured the gold. To add salt to the wound, Jax once again came out on top in their match on Raw, solidifying her dominance over the former champ.

Interestingly, Bayley and Jax now stand as the only two women who have declared their entry into this year’s Rumble so far. With the road to WrestleMania just heating up, it will be worth watching to see if Bayley can recapture the magic of last year’s win or if her recent struggles with Jax will continue to haunt her.

Meanwhile, Bayley’s schedule has been as chaotic as ever. She appeared on WWE NXT last week in what seemed like an attempt to mentor former NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez. However, things took an unexpected turn when Perez attacked Bayley in the middle of the ring. The confrontation ended with “The Prodigy” extending an invitation for Bayley to return to NXT this week, as revealed in a SmackDown digital exclusive.

With tension rising across Raw, NXT, and even SmackDown, it’s clear that Bayley’s presence is felt throughout the WWE Universe. Whether it’s reclaiming gold, asserting her dominance in the Rumble, or dealing with fiery up-and-comers like Perez, Bayley has no shortage of challenges ahead. Fans will undoubtedly be glued to their screens to see how “The Role Model” navigates this pivotal chapter in her career.

Stay tuned for updates as the Royal Rumble approaches, and be sure to catch all the action as Bayley continues to make waves across WWE programming.

WWE Raw Preview 1/20/2025

WWE Raw will air live globally on Netflix tonight from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

  • WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria returns to Raw
  • Pure Fusion Collective vs. Damage CTRL’s Dakota Kay and IYO Sky
  • WWE Hall of Famer “JBL” John Bradshaw Layfield to appear
  • The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) in action
  • Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre
  • Sami Zayn to appear
  • Jey Uso to appear

Jordynne Grace, Josh Alexander, & PCO Leaving TNA Wrestling

It appears TNA Wrestling is heading into a period of transition, with three high-profile names seemingly on their way out of the company. As contracts come to an end, the promotion could be set for some major roster shake-ups.

Jordynne Grace Wraps Up TNA Run After Loss to Tessa Blanchard

Jordynne Grace’s time with TNA seems to have reached its conclusion. After suffering a hard-fought loss to Tessa Blanchard at the Genesis 2025 pay-per-view, reports indicate that Grace’s contract is set to expire this month, making her exit almost certain. If Genesis was indeed her final appearance, Grace leaves behind a legacy as one of the company’s most dominant and dynamic performers, having elevated the Knockouts Division during her tenure.

The departure of Grace raises questions about where she’ll land next. With her impressive resume and undeniable star power, speculation is bound to swirl around potential moves to other major promotions like WWE, AEW, or a return to the indie scene.

Jordynne Grace posted this Thank You on X.

Josh Alexander Nearing the End of His TNA Contract

Josh Alexander, another cornerstone of TNA’s roster, is also reportedly on his way out. His current contract is set to expire in mid-February, and expectations are that he’ll part ways with the company soon afterward.

As a former TNA World Champion and one of the most technically gifted wrestlers on the roster, Alexander’s potential departure is a significant blow. Known for his gritty in-ring style and consistency, Alexander has been a fan favorite and a reliable workhorse for the promotion. Like Grace, his next move will undoubtedly attract attention, with fans eager to see where “The Walking Weapon” ends up next.

PCO Parts Ways with TNA After Controversial Championship Incident

PCO’s exit from TNA Wrestling appears to be far more dramatic. During the The People vs. GCW event on Sunday night, the veteran made headlines by smashing the TNA Digital Media Championship in a shocking moment. This symbolic destruction of the title came as rumors of his departure from the company began circulating.

PCO later took to Twitter to address the situation, delivering a cryptic and frustrated message aimed at TNA’s management. In his tweet, he praised the talent roster, production, and creative teams, while taking issue with what he described as “new management.” He hinted at behind-the-scenes issues, calling out TNA President Scott D’Amore as a key figure in his dissatisfaction.

The 55-year-old has carved out a unique niche in the industry, bringing a chaotic energy and an “anything can happen” vibe wherever he goes. Whether this explosive departure marks the end of his storied career or a new chapter elsewhere remains to be seen.

What’s Next for TNA?

These departures highlight an intriguing moment for TNA Wrestling. While losing key talent like Jordynne Grace, Josh Alexander, and PCO is undoubtedly a blow, the promotion has rebounded from roster turnover before. With its renewed focus on expanding its brand and delivering compelling storylines, the company will need to bolster its roster and maintain momentum moving forward.

As 2025 kicks off, the wrestling world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on where these departing stars land—and what TNA does to fill the gaps left behind. Will we see new faces step up to take their places, or could TNA surprise fans with big-name signings? Only time will tell.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on this developing story!

Britt Baker’s AEW Future Reportedly in Question Amid Backstage Tensions

Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., a cornerstone of AEW since its inception, finds herself at the center of backstage drama once again. Despite being one of the most recognizable faces in the company, the latest reports suggest her time in AEW may be nearing an end.

On a recent episode of the PWTorch VIP podcast, wrestling journalist Wade Keller shed light on Baker’s standing within AEW’s locker room, claiming the dentist-turned-wrestler has faced increasing frustrations from colleagues and higher-ups. Keller noted that Baker is “wildly unpopular” with many of AEW’s women’s roster, though he acknowledged that some in the company might disagree with that assessment.

Is AEW Moving On from Britt Baker?

Keller suggested that Tony Khan might be considering phasing Baker out of AEW programming entirely, placing her in a similar category as other wrestlers who are no longer contacted for appearances. “She might be done with AEW,” Keller said, hinting at growing internal friction.

Reportedly, one factor contributing to Baker’s diminished presence on AEW television is her backstage altercation with Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) last year. The situation stemmed from Baker allegedly criticizing MJF’s lengthy match with Will Ospreay, a comment that made its way back to MJF via Alicia Atout. This led to a confrontation involving Ospreay and later escalated when Baker reportedly made disparaging remarks about Atout, prompting MJF to get involved. Following an internal investigation, Baker was reportedly suspended for her role in the incident.

Additionally, it’s believed that a minor backstage incident since the MJF altercation has further cast doubt on Baker’s value as a key player on AEW programming, leaving Khan to question whether keeping her on TV is worth the potential drama.

Britt Baker’s History of Controversy

This isn’t the first time Baker has faced issues behind the scenes. Her strained relationship with Thunder Rosa was well-documented on the short-lived reality show AEW All Access, where tensions between the two were a recurring theme. Keller further described Baker as having a reputation for being “fiercely territorial” about her position in AEW.

However, not all the challenges Baker faces stem from her professional relationships. Keller clarified that her recent absence has nothing to do with her break-up with former AEW star Adam Cole, which reportedly ended without animosity between the two.

Baker’s Commitment to AEW

Despite the drama, Baker has made her feelings about AEW clear in past interviews. She has expressed a genuine love for the company and a desire to elevate the women’s division, even as rumors about her behavior continue to circulate. While her passion for AEW appears sincere, the question now is whether the backstage environment—and AEW management—are willing to invest in her moving forward.

As AEW heads into another pivotal year, it remains to be seen whether Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., will continue to carve out a place in the company or if this chapter of her career is nearing its end. Fans will be watching closely to see what happens next for the inaugural AEW Women’s Champion.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for more updates on Britt Baker’s status and all things AEW!