Author: John Bass

AEW’s Bullet Club Gold Getting New Members ‘Imminently’

Fightful Select is reporting that Bullet Club Gold is set to get at least one new member imminently, though there’s no confirmation on who it may be. Former AEW World Champion CM Punk might be heading for a feud with the group after he returns to AEW programming for the debut episode of “Collision.”

The main event for the June 17 premiere of “Collision” is CM Punk and FTR versus Jay White, Juice Robinson, and Samoa Joe, but Fightful was unable to confirm whether or not Joe is or was planned to be a permanent addition to Bullet Club Gold. 

Back in Japan, Bullet Club “proper” recently made a number of additions at the recent NJPW Dominion event. United Empire’s Dan Moloney and former Young Lion Clark Connors both joined the David Finlay-led Bullet Club. Former Bullet Club member Tama Tonga is currently working in NJPW without a contract. With the previously expelled White wearing Bullet Club colors in AEW, former members like Tonga or the recently-expelled El Phantasmo are also possibilities.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

AEW Dynamite Preview 6/7/2023

Tonight’s AEW Dynamite from the Broadmoor World Arena in Colorado Springs, CO. at 8/7c on TBS.

Texas Tornado Tag Team Match: JungleHOOK (“Jungle Boy” Jack Perry & HOOK) vs. Dralistico & Preston Vance

  • AEW International Championship Match: Orange Cassidy (c) vs. Swerve Strickland
  • TBS Championship Open Challenge Match: Kris Statlander vs. Anna Jay A.S.
  • Ricky Starks vs. Jay White (FTR & Juice Robinson are banned from ringside)
  • Blackpool Combat Club (Wheeler Yuta, Jon Moxley, and Claudio Castagnoli) vs. CHAOS (Rocky Romero, Trent Beretta, and Chuck Taylor)
  • We’ll hear from AEW World Champion MJF
  • Tony Khan to announce main event for the debut episode of Collision

Bron Breakker Challenges Seth Rollins For World Heavyweight Title On WWE NXT

After this week’s episode of “WWE NXT,” it seems Bron Breakker is looking past the “NXT” Championship and toward a larger goal. During Tuesday’s episode, Breakker revealed that he wants to face new WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins for the title.

Breakker called out Rollins in the final moments of the show, saying he wanted Rollins to prove that he was “the workhorse of WWE” by coming to the developmental brand and putting his title on the line. He also said that while Rollins was the inaugural “NXT” Champion, Breakker was the most dominant holder of that title. Breakker is a former 2-time “NXT” Champion, his most recent reign lasting nearly a year, from April 4, 2022, to April 1, 2023.

Rollins became the WWE World Heavyweight Champion last month at WWE Night of Champions after defeating AJ Styles in the finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament. Rollins has already made his first defense of the title, defeating the Judgment Day’s Damian Priest this week on “WWE Raw.” He’s also a former 2-time WWE Champion, a former 2-time Universal Champion, and of course, the first-ever “NXT” Champion, having won a tournament for that belt, as well, back in 2012.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

The Iron Sheik Has Passed Away

The Iron Sheik has passed away at the age of 81

In a statement posted to The Iron Sheik’s Twitter account on Wednesday, it was announced that Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known to the world as The Iron Sheik, passed away peacefully.

Remembering The Iron Sheik

Today, we gather with heavy hearts to bid farewell to a true legend, a force of nature, and an iconic figure who left an incredible mark on the world of professional wrestling. It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The Iron Sheik, but we also take solace in knowing that he departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

Beyond the wrestling persona that the world knew so well, The Iron Sheik was a devoted family man. He cherished the love and support of his wife of 47 years Caryl, who stood by his side through thick and thin, offering unwavering encouragement throughout his life. Their bond was an anchor, providing him with the strength to face the challenges that life presented.

To his children, Tanya, Nikki, Marissa and son in law Eddie, he was not just a wrestling icon. He was a loving and dedicated father. He instilled in them the values of perseverance, determination, and the importance of following their dreams. The Iron Sheik’s guidance and unwavering belief in their potential served as a driving force for his children, empowering them to become the best versions of themselves.

The Iron Sheik’s love also extended to his grandchildren,Marissa, Zahra, Alexis, Chloe and Niko who brought immeasurable joy into his life. As a doting Papa Sheik, he cherished every moment spent with them, creating memories that will forever be treasured. He shared his wisdom, humor, and zest for life with his grandchildren, leaving an incredible impression on their hearts. The Iron Sheik, (whose real name was Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri), transcended the realm of sports entertainment. With his larger-than-life persona, incredible charisma, and unparalleled in-ring skills, he captivated audiences around the globe. He was a trailblazer, breaking barriers and paving the way for a diverse range of wrestlers who followed in his footsteps. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the squared circle, The Iron Sheik was a man of immense passion and dedication. He embodied resilience. He overcame countless challenges in his life, both inside and outside the wrestling ring. His journey from a small village in Iran to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in the world of wrestling is a testament to his unwavering determination. However, it was not just his in-ring prowess that defined him. The Iron Sheik was a beloved figure who was known for his humor, his larger-than-life personality, and his ability to connect with fans on a personal level. He embraced his role as a heel, becoming one of the most notorious villains in wrestling history… but he also won the hearts of millions with his charm and infectious spirit.

In the realm of family, love, and friendship, The Iron Sheik’s bond with his nephews, Page and Jian Magen was unparalleled. They recognized the significance of their uncle’s legacy and worked tirelessly to ensure that his impact would never be forgotten. They dedicated themselves to preserving his legacy, celebrating his accomplishments, and sharing his story with the world. Their unwavering commitment showcased the profound love and respect they have for him. These devoted nephews poured their hearts into honoring their uncle every single day, reflecting the profound love and admiration they hold for him. They understand the influence he has had on countless lives and embrace the responsibility of carrying forward his legacy. Through their heartfelt dedication, they ensured that The Iron Sheik’s impact would continue to resonate for generations to come.

Throughout his career, The Iron Sheik became a cultural phenomenon, transcending the realm of professional wrestling to become a pop culture icon. His memorable catchphrases and unforgettable moments are etched into the memories of fans worldwide. He left an indelible mark on the industry, and his influence can still be felt in the world of wrestling today. As we bid farewell to The Iron Sheik, let us remember him not only for his athletic prowess but also for the joy and inspiration he brought into our lives. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of fans, as well as in the annals of wrestling history. To his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his larger-than-life presence, we offer our deepest condolences. May you find solace in the knowledge that The Iron Sheik’s legacy will forever be cherished and celebrated. Rest in peace, dear Sheik, and thank you for the memories.

RESPECT THE LEGEND.”

Vaziri leaves behind his wife Caryl of 47 years, his children Tanya, Nikki, Marissa, and son-in-law Eddie, as well as five grandchildren.

Iron Sheik was a one-time WWF Heavyweight Champion and a former WWF Tag Team Champion with Nikolai Volkoff. He received his WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2005.

Update On Bray Wyatt’s WWE Status

Bray Wyatt’s status with WWE appears to be a bit more than the previously reported “physical” issues other outlets have reported on.

According to a source close to the situation, Wyatt has been going through what is being described to us as a “mental break.”

We do know that Bray had battled a case of COVID-19 and the belief is that the illness either “brought on” or “coincided” with some sort of mental health issue.

Additionally, it was said that when Wyatt returned to WWE at the Extreme Rules pay-per-view event on October 8, 2022, he expressed concern over simply saying the words “I’m here” as the show came to a close. There was a debate that took place between Wyatt and several writers at the time regarding whether he should say more. During the post-WWE Extreme Rules 2022 edition of RAW, Wyatt appeared in front of live fans for the first time since his WWE release in July 2021.

Due to the sensitive nature of the matter, WWE officials are giving Bray as much time as he needs. One source added that Wyatt seemed a bit “out of it” when spoken to over the past few months. We also know that he wasn’t happy with the creative plans for his character as time went on.

As of this writing, there is no timetable for Bray Wyatt’s return to WWE.

Source: Exclusive from eWn

WWE NXT Preview 6/6/2023

WWE NXT from the Capitol Wrestling Center inside the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, FL. on USA Network at 8/7C.

  • #1 Contender Battle Royal to determine the next challenger for Tiffany Stratton’s NXT Women’s Championship
  • Mustafa Ali vs. Joe Gacy
  • Dani Palmer vs. Blair Davenport
  • The Schism (Jagger Reid, Rip Fowler & Ava) vs. Diamond Mine (Ivy Nile, Brutus Creed & Julius Creed)
  • Eddy Thorpe vs. Damon Kemp
  • Ilja Dragunov returns

WWE RAW Preview 6/5/2023

Tonight’s WWE Raw is live on the USA Network from the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match: Seth Rollins defends against Damian Priest of The Judgement Day

Women’s Money in the Bank Qualifying Match: Becky Lynch vs. Sonya Deville

Women’s Money in the Bank Qualifying Match: Natalya vs. Zoey Stark

Cody Rhodes to appear on Miz TV

Wrestling Legend Stan Lane Proves He’s Not Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s Father

The worlds of politics and professional wrestling continue to be linked in the most bizarre ways, with the most recent being the paternity of Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. In the past, both Boebert and her mother have accused retired pro wrestler “Sweet” Stan Lane of being the congresswoman’s estranged father. These accusations have now been disproven, with a press release given to PWInsider on behalf of Stane Lane saying that a DNA test has shown that he is not the father of the politician.

This conclusion comes after years of turmoil between both parties, one that Lane elaborated on in his press release. “We went through the legal system and completed a court-ordered paternity test. I was declared not to be the father and the case was dismissed,” The former NWA star explained, “In spite of the court verdict, the mother of [Lauren Boebert] has continued to stick to her original claim.”

Eventually, Lane allowed the congresswoman to oversee another DNA test herself, confirming, once again, that the former pro wrestler was not her father. “Once we both reviewed the results Lauren and I agreed that this matter is settled, and I accepted Lauren’s apology on behalf of herself and her mother,” Lane concluded.

Lane expressed his desire to return to his quiet life as a retired performer coming out of this situation. As a pro wrestler, “Sweet” Stan Lane was best known for his proficiency as a tag team competitor, with many wrestling fans knowing him for his time as a part of The Fabulous Ones with Steve Keirn and The Midnight Express with Bobby Eaton. However, Lane’s tag team success wasn’t confined to just two partners. Throughout his career, the wrestling legend celebrated 35 tag team championship reigns with six different partners across the United States.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

WWE Announces Multi-Year Partnership Deal With Streaming Platform Twitch

WWE announced this morning that they’ve entered into a multi-year partnership with online streaming platform Twitch. As part of that partnership, WWE will re-introduce its official channel, set to feature “live and exclusive content” with WWE stars. Additionally, the channel will stream a “companion sidecast” to “WWE Raw,” set to debut alongside tonight’s episode. The stream will alternate between different hosts and will include appearances from WWE stars, providing a behind-the-scenes look at “Raw” on a weekly basis.

The company announced that its Twitch channel will also stream all premium live event press conferences and “other live productions.” The company’s press conferences will continue to stream on other platforms as well, namely YouTube.

In the past, Twitch has been a source of controversy for WWE. Back in 2020, the company instructed talent to deactivate their Twitch accounts before then offering a deal that allowed performers to continue streaming — as long as they shared a cut of the revenue with WWE. This past April, an agreement between WWE and Twitch allowed talent to get back on the platform with few restrictions, and it seems this new partnership is a continuation of that relationship.

Even prior to the April announcement, a number of WWE stars have gradually returned to the Amazon-owned platform, including Drew Gulak, Dakota Kai, Zelina Vega, and Xavier Woods. It remains to be seen if other WWE stars who stopped streaming, such as AJ Styles, could return, or if the new partnership will introduce new talent to the streaming landscape.

WWE issued the following: 

WWE® Announces Multi-Year Partnership With Twitch

Official Monday Night RAW Sidecast on Twitch Launches Today

–(BUSINESS WIRE)– WWE® (NYSE: WWE) today announced a multi-year partnership with Twitch that will see the return of the official WWE channel and popular WWE Superstar channels, featuring live and exclusive content.

In addition to the launch of the channel, WWE will debut today a companion sidecast to Monday Night RAW, bringing the WWE Universe behind the scenes and closer to the in-ring action. The weekly viewing experience will be led by a rotating cast of hosts and will regularly feature appearances by WWE Superstars, unique and exclusive content such as backstage interviews, and more. Viewers can stream the sidecast live every Monday beginning at 8 p.m. ET via https://www.twitch.tv/wwe or the Twitch App.

Additionally, the official WWE channel will be home to other live productions and will serve as an alternate live streaming feed for all of WWE’s premium live event press conferences.

Daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter Is Not Happy About Lacey Evans’ New Look

The daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter is not happy with Lacey Evans’ new look.

As seen on Friday Night SmackDown, Evans came out wearing a drill instructor cover, similar to what Sgt. Slaughter wore during his heyday. Although he never served in the military, Slaughter’s gimmick is inspired by the United States Marine Corps. Evans enlisted in the Marine Corps at the age of 19 and served for 5 years. 

Slaughter’s daughter tweeted, “No. This is NOT okay. @WWE Who the f**k does @LaceyEvansWWE think she is?!? There’s only 1 @_SgtSlaughter, there’s only 1 Slaughter Daughter, and she’s just a poser.”

Evans responded, “Your daddy’s biggest fan. A United States Marine. And a bad Mfer. you know who I am. And where to find me.”

The official Sgt. Slaughter Twitter account has been retweeting fan comments accusing Evans of “identity theft” and calling her a “fraud.”

Sgt. Slaughter tweeted at Lacey that she has pissed off his daughter.

“Lookout @LaceyEvansWWE You’ve Got @_sgtdaughter Pissed. She’s One Tough MF’er. I Know Jarhead I Trained Her, & Like ME, She Takes NO Prisoner’s ”There’s Only 2 Ways Out Of Camp Slaughter, On YOUR Feet or In A Ditty Bag, An Itty, Bitty, Ditty Bag” YO JOE.”

Lacey responded back:

“Between your hips and her ability, the chances of anyone in your bloodline to put me in a bag is 0. When you birth someone who can carry your legacy or take me out, call me. Until then, salute me. Like the real Marine I am. Rah.”

WrestleVotes reported today that Slaughter previously turned down WWE’s offer to be part of vignettes for Evans in January: 

“Adding to the Lacey Evans / Sgt. Slaughter story… back in January WWE asked Sarge to appear in the Lacey return vignettes, where he would “teach” & pass down the Cobra Clutch. Slaughter adamantly denied any involvement.”

Credit to WrestlingNews.co for part of the story