Author: John Bass

Danhausen’s AEW Future in Limbo Amid Long Hiatus

Danhausen, AEW’s “Very Nice, Very Evil” sensation, has been notably absent from television since Worlds End 2023, and a new report reveals that his status with the company remains uncertain. According to Fightful Select, Danhausen is not currently part of AEW’s creative plans, and discussions about his return have been minimal at best.

Communication Breakdown

Sources indicate that communication between AEW and Danhausen has been sporadic, limited primarily to securing approvals for his independent wrestling bookings. While this practice is standard for talent under AEW contracts, it highlights the lack of ongoing dialogue about his role within the company.

Plans for Danhausen’s return from injury were reportedly in the works last year but were later shelved. Frustrated by the situation, Danhausen directly approached Tony Khan to express his concerns. Earlier this year, there were attempts to integrate him back into AEW programming, with Bryan Danielson championing his return. Despite this support, no concrete plans materialized.

Creative Challenges and Personal Priorities

One potential sticking point was scheduling. AEW insiders reportedly believe Danhausen prioritized independent bookings over AEW’s Collision, which airs on Saturdays. However, Danhausen has maintained that his availability was dictated by family commitments, which fluctuated throughout the year.

Contract Status

Danhausen’s AEW contract is set to expire in the summer of 2025, leaving the door open for a potential return or departure from the company. For now, no active creative plans are in place, and it seems his focus remains on independent wrestling, where his eccentric persona continues to thrive.

What’s Next for Danhausen?

Fans of Danhausen, known for his unique mix of humor and supernatural antics, are left wondering what the future holds. Whether he finds a path back to AEW or explores opportunities elsewhere, his charismatic presence remains in high demand on the indie circuit.

Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for updates on Danhausen’s status and all the latest AEW news!

Josh Alexander Bids Farewell to the Independent Scene

Josh Alexander, one of the most respected wrestlers to emerge from the Canadian independent circuit, has announced his retirement from indie wrestling after 20 years. The 37-year-old TNA star shared the news on social media, reflecting on his journey, the grind of constant travel, and his desire to make way for the next generation of wrestlers.

Reflecting on Two Decades of the Grind

In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Alexander expressed gratitude for the promotions, wrestlers, and fans who have been part of his journey. He acknowledged the toll that wrestling’s demanding schedule has taken on him, emphasizing how the relentless travel, especially on the indie scene, has shaped his career and, ultimately, his decision to step back.

“I’ve loved my time in the independents these past 20 years,” Alexander wrote. “I’ve done amazing things, worked with amazing people, and got to travel the world performing in front of amazing fans. That being said, I’m tired of the hustle. It’s time for the next crop to step up and fill whatever void I may leave behind in the Canadian scene.”

The “Walking Weapon” also shared gratitude for the experiences that led him to prominence, even crediting his time as a tire technician—a job he held to supplement his wrestling income—as part of the grind that ultimately gave him a livelihood. He ended his announcement on a positive note, using a classic wrestling sendoff: “It’s not goodbye. It’s just see you later.”

A Continued Legacy in TNA

Though Alexander is stepping away from independent wrestling, his career is far from over. He remains a cornerstone of TNA, where he has wrestled since 2018 and achieved Triple Crown Champion status. His accolades include two reigns as TNA World Champion, with his second reign setting a record at 335 days. In 2023, his efforts earned him a spot in the PWI 500’s top 10, ranking ninth overall.

Alexander is expected to continue as a pivotal figure in TNA’s resurgence, and fans can still look forward to seeing him in high-profile matches under the promotion’s banner.

Interest from WWE or AEW?

As of now, it’s unclear if WWE or AEW has their sights set on Alexander. He recently faced AEW’s Konosuke Takeshita for the International Championship in October, though the match took place at a Maple Leaf Wrestling event, not an AEW show. While his future outside of TNA remains speculative, Alexander’s impressive resume makes him a potential asset for any promotion.

The End of an Era

Josh Alexander’s departure from the independent scene marks the end of a remarkable chapter in his career. For 20 years, he has been a fixture in Canadian wrestling, inspiring countless performers with his work ethic, skill, and dedication. Now, as he focuses on the next phase of his journey, he leaves behind a legacy for the next wave of talent to build upon.

Alexander’s fans, both on the indies and in TNA, know that this isn’t truly goodbye—it’s simply a new beginning for the “Walking Weapon.” Stay tuned to WrestlingNewsBlog.com for updates on his career and the latest in professional wrestling!

Becky Lynch Provides An Update On Her WWE Future

Becky Lynch, one of WWE’s most beloved and iconic Superstars, is dropping strong hints about a return to the squared circle. With WWE’s historic move to Netflix for Raw on January 6, 2025, fans are eager to see if The Man will play a role in this monumental shift.

Lynch, currently on hiatus, hasn’t wrestled since May 27, 2024, when she faced Liv Morgan in a grueling cage match. That contest, marred by interference from Dominik Mysterio, ended with Lynch suffering a bitter defeat. Since then, she’s been absent from WWE programming, with her contract expiring shortly after the match. However, As documented by Sports Illustrated,, Lynch recently confirmed during an interview at the 2024 Vulture Festival that she isn’t retired and has unfinished business in WWE.

“The Man” Isn’t Finished

“If you think I’m going out with Dominik [Mysterio] slamming a cage door in my face, that’s definitely not gonna happen,” Lynch emphatically stated during her Vulture Festival appearance. This bold comment suggests she’s itching to return to action and settle scores with Mysterio and Morgan.

Her words come as a welcome update for fans, as speculation about her future has been swirling for months. Reports indicated that contract negotiations between Lynch and WWE broke down earlier this year, allegedly due to financial disagreements, with Lynch reportedly seeking a $2 million per year deal. Despite this, her recent comments hint at a willingness to step back into the ring and possibly reignite her feud with Morgan and the Mysterio-led Judgment Day faction.

Lynch’s Role in the Raw Netflix Premiere?

While Lynch hasn’t confirmed an exact return date, her potential comeback aligns perfectly with WWE’s plans to load the Raw premiere on Netflix with major names and storylines. The January 6, 2025, episode will feature John Cena kicking off his farewell tour, appearances by Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Bianca Belair, and even a performance from Travis Scott. Lynch’s return would add yet another layer of star power to what’s shaping up to be an unmissable night for WWE fans.

A Return Fueled by Revenge

If Lynch does return before the Raw premiere, it’s likely she’ll pick up where she left off: seeking revenge against Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan. With Morgan holding the WWE Women’s World Championship, Lynch could set her sights on reclaiming the gold while dismantling the duo that cost her her last match.

The WWE Universe Awaits

Becky Lynch’s undeniable charisma and fighting spirit have made her one of WWE’s biggest stars, and her return would be a game-changer for the women’s division. Whether she re-signs in time for the Netflix premiere or shortly thereafter, one thing is clear: The Man isn’t done making history.

WWE Announces Venue For Raw Netflix Premiere, Advertises Returning Legend And Major Celebrity

The WWE Universe is gearing up for a major shakeup as “WWE Raw” prepares to make its highly-anticipated move to Netflix on January 6, 2025. This marks a new chapter for the flagship wrestling program, and WWE isn’t holding back in making the debut a spectacle.

The first-ever episode of Raw on Netflix will air live from the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. Adding to the excitement, rap superstar Travis Scott is set to appear, a moment that was teased in a big way when WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H made a surprise announcement alongside Scott at ComplexFest. The rapper, whose track “FIEN” was previously featured as the theme for WrestleMania 41, was even gifted a custom WWE Hardcore Championship to mark the occasion.

John Cena’s Farewell Tour Kicks Off

Adding even more star power to the debut is the return of John Cena, whose appearance is expected to kick off his much-talked-about farewell tour in 2025. WWE fans will get a chance to say goodbye to the 16-time World Champion as he embarks on what promises to be an emotional final run.

But Cena isn’t the only big name set to make waves on this historic episode. The promotional materials also showcase Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Bianca Belair, who are currently part of the SmackDown roster. This comes amidst reports of a potential roster shakeup, with Netflix reportedly expressing interest in featuring marquee talent like CM Punk as well. While it’s unclear how the rosters for Raw and SmackDown will look in 2025, it’s safe to say fans should expect some crossover and surprises as WWE adjusts to its new streaming home.

Netflix’s Big Challenge

WWE’s move to Netflix comes at a time when the platform is doubling down on live programming. Just last Friday, Netflix hosted its largest livestream yet—a headline-grabbing fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. However, the event encountered streaming issues due to overwhelming demand, sparking concerns about how Netflix’s infrastructure will handle the massive audience expected for Raw’s premiere. Despite this, Netflix has assured WWE that it’s taking measures to ensure a smooth broadcast.

What This Means for WWE Fans

The Netflix premiere of Raw isn’t just a new chapter for the show—it’s an opportunity to introduce the product to a broader, global streaming audience. With major stars, a potential reshuffling of rosters, and a high-profile celebrity tie-in with Travis Scott, WWE is making a bold statement about the future of its programming.

Make sure to mark January 6, 2025, on your calendar, as WWE promises to kick off this new era with a bang. Will this new platform elevate Raw to even greater heights? We’ll find out soon enough!

AEW Collision Preview 11/16/2024

AEW Collision tonight on TNT, tonight’s show was taped at the MVP Arena in Albany, New York on Thursday night.

  • AEW Full Gear Contender Series Match: La Faccion Ingobernable (Rush and Mortos) vs. The Acclaimed
  • AEW Women’s World Championship – No DQ Match: Mariah May (c) vs. Anna Jay
  • Harley Cameron vs. Mina Shirakawa
  • Johnny TV vs. Daniel Garcia
  • Shelton Benjamin vs. Komander
  • Powerhouse Hobbs vs. Bulk Bronson

Becky Lynch Rumored To Be Nearing WWE Return – By Raw Netflix Premiere

“The Man” Becky Lynch could soon be making her highly anticipated return to WWE. The former Women’s Champion has been out of action since May, following her loss to Liv Morgan on Raw just days before her WWE contract expired in June. While Lynch’s absence sparked plenty of speculation, reports have consistently suggested she planned to take some time off before deciding on her next steps.

Signs of a Comeback

A new report from PWInsider indicates that Lynch’s return to WWE may be on the horizon. Adding fuel to the fire is her upcoming appearance at the 2024 Vulture Festival, marking her first public engagement in months. The festival’s promotional material hints at a potential revelation about her future, teasing, “We’ll look back on her legendary career … and just maybe get a glimpse at what ‘The Man’ has in store for us next.”

The timing aligns with whispers that Lynch is expected to be “back in the mix” by the time Raw debuts on Netflix in January 2025. While it remains unclear whether she and WWE have finalized a new deal, the latest developments suggest negotiations are nearing completion.

Free Agency’s Impact on WWE Stars

Lynch is one of several prominent WWE superstars whose contracts expired this year. While her husband Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Sheamus, and Chad Gable have secured new deals with WWE, others like Dijak, Ricochet, and Baron Corbin have opted to test the waters of free agency.

Lynch’s free-agent status has been closely watched, given her status as one of WWE’s most marketable stars. From headlining WrestleMania 35 — the first-ever women’s main event in the event’s history — to dominating as both a singles competitor and a crossover media personality, her return would undoubtedly be a major boost to WWE.

What’s Next for Becky Lynch?

While no official announcement has been made, all signs point to Lynch resuming her in-ring career with WWE. Whether her Vulture Festival appearance will provide more concrete details remains to be seen, but her return could come at a pivotal moment as WWE heads into a new era with its Netflix partnership and evolving roster.

Stay tuned to wrestlingnewsblog.com for updates on Becky Lynch’s status and what could be next for “The Man” in WWE!

Shinsuke Nakamura Returns With A New Look, Attacked LA Knight After US Title Defense On WWE SmackDown

Shinsuke Nakamura has reemerged on WWE SmackDown, and he’s bringing a darker edge to his character. Months after a house show loss in Cardiff, Wales, Nakamura made a surprise return to confront United States Champion LA Knight.

Knight, fresh off a victory over Legado del Fantasma’s Berto, found himself blindsided by Nakamura. This wasn’t the flashy “King of Strong Style” fans remembered, however. Gone was the red gear synonymous with his WWE run. Instead, Nakamura sported a long, brown duster over a black leather shirt and pants. His crimson face paint, shaped into striking diamond patterns, added an air of menace as he silently admired the damage he inflicted before leaving the ring.

A Long-Awaited Return to Action

Fans have been waiting months for Nakamura to step back into the spotlight. His last televised WWE match was a loss to Sheamus on the April 22 episode of Raw. Despite his absence from WWE programming, Nakamura has kept fans intrigued, especially with Pro Wrestling NOAH announcing his return for their New Year’s Day show in 2024.

This marks a special homecoming for Nakamura, who previously appeared at NOAH’s New Year’s Day event in 2023, where he defeated The Great Muta during the Japanese legend’s retirement tour.

What’s Next for Nakamura?

Nakamura’s sudden targeting of LA Knight raises plenty of questions. Was this a one-off attack, or the beginning of a feud? Either way, Nakamura’s shift in presentation suggests that the WWE veteran is ready to reinvent himself yet again, a hallmark of his career in both WWE and Japan.

As he balances his WWE commitments with his anticipated Pro Wrestling NOAH appearance, one thing is certain: Shinsuke Nakamura is back, and he’s making waves in more ways than one.

Injured WWE Star Braun Strowman Makes Surprise Return In Post-SmackDown Dark Match

WWE fans in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, got an unexpected treat after last night’s episode of SmackDown went off the air. Braun Strowman, the “Monster Among Men,” made a shocking return to action during a dark match that pitted The Judgment Day against the LWO.

The post-show matchup saw Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio struggling against The Judgment Day’s Finn Balor, JD McDonagh, and surprise ally Carlito. The odds turned in the LWO’s favor when Strowman made his entrance, stepping in to even the playing field. Strowman’s involvement helped the team secure the win, and he left fans with a memorable moment, stuffing Carlito’s signature apple down his trunks after the match.

https://twitter.com/Steven_R/status/1857625920871313918

Strowman’s Road to Recovery

This surprise appearance marks Strowman’s first action in months following a groin injury sustained during his Last Monster Standing match against Bronson Reed on the September 30 episode of Raw. Strowman later revealed on Instagram that he tore his groin just two minutes into the match, but fortunately, surgery was not required for his recovery.

Before that injury, Strowman had already been through a challenging year. After undergoing neck surgery in 2023, he finally returned to WWE in April, only to face another setback with the groin tear during his feud with Reed. While his recent dark match appearance is a promising sign, there’s no official word yet on when he’ll be back on WWE television.

A Busy Schedule Ahead

Fans eager to see more of Strowman won’t have to wait long. He’s confirmed to appear at Great Lakes Championship Wrestling’s Blizzard Brawl on December 7, revisiting a promotion he last worked with in 2022.

Whether his dark match return signals a storyline reintroduction or serves as a tune-up for his independent commitments, Strowman’s return adds a new layer of excitement to WWE’s roster. With his larger-than-life persona and renewed momentum, the Monster Among Men is once again ready to dominate the ring.

AEW Rampage Preview 11/15/2024

AEW Rampage tonight on TNT.

  • Ricochet vs. Dante Martin
  • Mark Briscoe vs. Ariya Daivari
  • Leila Grey vs. Hikaru Shida
  • Rocky Romero vs. Komander
  • La Faccion Ingobernable in action

WWE SmackDown Preview 11/15/2024

WWE SmackDown will air live tonight on the USA Network from the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

  • WWE Tag Team Championship Match: Motor City Machine Guns (c) vs. The Street Profits
  • WWE Women’s Championship Match: Nia Jax (c) vs. Naomi
  • Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes to appear
  • Kevin Owens to appear