Tonight’s taped AEW Dynamite On 34th Street takes place from the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, airing on TBS and HBO Max with a special 6:00 pm ET start time.
Continental Classic Blue League Match: Konosuke Takeshita vs. Orange Cassidy
Continental Classic Blue League Match: Roderick Strong vs. Mascara Dorada
MJF in action
Dynamite Diamond Ring Final: Ricochet vs. ROH World Champion Bandido
Continental Classic Gold League Match: PAC vs. Jungle Jack Perry
Several rising NXT stars may be getting the call sooner rather than later, as a new backstage report suggests WWE is actively lining up its next wave of main roster promotions.
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, discussions within WWE have intensified following the recent Saturday Night’s Main Event special, with multiple performers now firmly on the company’s internal call-up radar. While names like Trick Williams and Je’Von Evans were part of the broader conversation, Meltzer specifically pointed to Joe Hendry and Sol Ruca as talents being seriously considered.
Meltzer noted that Sol Ruca, in particular, appears to have gained significant momentum after her appearance on the special, where she was positioned strongly against Bayley. That showing reportedly stood out backstage, with Meltzer saying he was told as early as the following Sunday that Ruca’s main roster future was already being discussed. While there’s no confirmed timeline for her move, the belief is that her call-up is no longer a matter of “if,” but “when.”
Another name drawing major internal praise is Oba Femi. Meltzer indicated that WWE sources see Femi as more than just a typical NXT standout, describing him as someone the company views as legitimate main event material on the main roster. That level of confidence suggests WWE may have big plans once he officially transitions out of NXT.
One of the key takeaways from Meltzer’s comments was the importance WWE placed on how these talents connected with a broader, more traditional WWE audience during Saturday Night’s Main Event. The response from that crowd reportedly played a role in accelerating discussions, potentially fast-tracking call-ups that may have originally been planned further down the line.
While nothing has been officially announced, the backstage buzz points to WWE continuing its trend of refreshing the main roster with younger, homegrown talent. If these reports hold true, fans could soon see familiar NXT faces stepping into much bigger spotlight — and possibly making an immediate impact — on Raw or SmackDown.
Andrade El Idolo’s path back to the ring just became a lot clearer, and it opens the door for some major possibilities across the wrestling landscape.
According to recent reports, Andrade’s contractual ties to WWE officially ended on December 12, meaning he is now free to sign with any promotion he chooses. While his WWE departure dates back to September, the biggest hurdle was a reported year-long non-compete clause that could have kept him sidelined well into 2025. That obstacle, however, has now been removed.
Fightful Select reports that Rush played a key role behind the scenes by connecting Andrade with an attorney and representative who has an extensive working history with WWE. That assistance helped lead to an agreement that waived the non-compete entirely. Since Andrade had not been paid by WWE since his September release, both sides were able to reach terms allowing him to immediately explore opportunities elsewhere.
As a result, Andrade could soon appear in AEW once again. Andrade is now free to negotiate with any promotion, including AEW, CMLL, AAA, TNA, or others around the world. There were also visa-related complications after WWE’s sponsorship ended, but those issues are reportedly being addressed, and Andrade is said to be back in the United States.
On the AEW side, Tony Khan has remained openly optimistic. During the Worlds End media call earlier this week, Khan spoke highly of Andrade, noting mutual respect and interest between both parties. While Khan stopped short of confirming any immediate appearances, his comments only fueled speculation that Andrade’s AEW return could be closer than ever.
AEW has reportedly been cautious throughout the situation, especially following Andrade’s surprise appearance on AEW programming earlier this year, when he aligned with Don Callis and attacked Kenny Omega. Once WWE’s legal stance became clearer, AEW aimed to ensure the transition wouldn’t create further complications.
Adding even more intrigue, Andrade recently announced his return to NJPW, where he is scheduled to appear at Wrestle Kingdom 20 as part of the United Empire. That confirmation further supports the idea that his contractual limitations are now fully behind him.
With his non-compete waived, international bookings lined up, and AEW interest still very much alive, Andrade finds himself in one of the strongest positions of his career. Wherever he lands next, it’s clear that his name is once again a major player in the global wrestling conversation.
Tonight’s episode of WWE Raw, which was taped on December 19, emanates from the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan – airing on Netflix at 8pm ET/5pm PT
Je’Von Evans vs. Rayo Americano
Bayley vs. Roxanne Perez
Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka
What’s next for Women’s Intercontinental Champion Maxxine Dupri
New Japan Pro Wrestling wrapped up its 2025 schedule on December 22 with Road To Tokyo Dome (Day 3) from Korakuen Hall, and the promotion didn’t go quietly into the offseason. Instead, NJPW delivered a surprise that instantly sent the wrestling world into speculation mode: Andrade El Idolo is officially returning to a New Japan ring.
The reveal came after United Empire scored a win over Gedo, Shingo Takagi, and Hiromu Takahashi. With momentum on his side, United Empire leader Callum Newman addressed the crowd and promised an early Christmas gift — not just for the fans, but for their Wrestle Kingdom 20 opponents as well. Newman announced that United Empire would have mystery partners lined up for the January 4 Tokyo Dome event, and the first reveal was delivered via a video package on the big screen.
That video featured Andrade, confirming that he will compete at Wrestle Kingdom 20 as a member of United Empire. Andrade will join Newman, HENARE, Great-O-Khan, and one yet-to-be-revealed partner in a massive ten-man tag team bout. On the opposite side will be Shingo Takagi, Hiromu Takahashi, and Bullet Club War Dogs members David Finlay, Drilla Moloney, and Gabe Kidd.
The match marks Andrade’s first NJPW appearance in over a decade. His last run with the company came back in January 2015, when he wrestled under the La Sombra name while still affiliated with CMLL. Andrade’s history in New Japan runs deep — he is a former IWGP Intercontinental Champion and once held the distinction of being the youngest competitor in G1 Climax history when he entered the tournament in 2011 at just 21 years old. Interestingly enough, that record was later matched by his upcoming United Empire teammate, Callum Newman.
Beyond the in-ring excitement, Andrade’s return raises plenty of questions about his current contract status. Following his surprise appearance on AEW Dynamite in October, WWE reportedly enforced a non-compete clause that could keep him sidelined from in-ring action for up to a year. However, Andrade has already been active elsewhere, having received WWE approval to wrestle for WWC in Puerto Rico on December 13 and later appearing at a House of Glory event in New York.
Whether Andrade needed — or received — clearance from WWE to compete at Wrestle Kingdom 20 remains unclear. Still, his involvement on NJPW’s biggest show of the year is notable, especially given the ongoing partnership between NJPW and AEW that has been in place since 2021. For many fans, Andrade’s Tokyo Dome appearance could be another sign pointing toward an eventual full-time return to AEW once all contractual dust settles.
Either way, Andrade’s name on the Wrestle Kingdom 20 card adds another layer of intrigue to an already stacked event, and all eyes will be on the Tokyo Dome to see what this surprise comeback leads to next.
Concerns are swirling around Dominik Mysterio following his appearance at AAA’s Guerra de Titanesevent. According to Bryan Alvarez, the reigning AAA Mega Champion and WWE Intercontinental Champion may have suffered a shoulder injury during the show’s main event.
Dominik teamed with El Grande Americano to take on his father, WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio, alongside Rey Fenix. The babyface duo ultimately scored the victory after interference from Penta, but the spotlight quickly shifted to Dominik’s condition late in the match.
Alvarez noted that the injury appeared to occur after Dominik took a DDT from Rey Mysterio near the closing moments of the bout. Following the move, Dominik was reportedly struggling badly, with limited use of his arm once the match concluded. Based on the way he landed, a shoulder separation is being speculated, though nothing has been confirmed.
Alvarez added that the situation could range anywhere from a minor issue to something far more serious, potentially even requiring surgery. However, the full extent of the injury won’t be known until Dominik undergoes a medical evaluation.
After the bell, Dominik was seen shoving his own partner, El Grande Americano, before walking to the back under his own power. Americano appeared confused by the exchange and later shook hands with Rey Mysterio before exiting the ring.
At this point, there is no official word on how much time, if any, Dominik may miss. With him currently holding both the AAA Mega Championship and WWE Intercontinental Championship, a lengthy absence would create major ripple effects across two promotions.
Dominik most recently reclaimed the Intercontinental Title at Survivor Series: WarGames 2025, defeating John Cena with assistance from Liv Morgan, continuing his controversial run at the top of WWE’s mid-card.
AAA closed out the year in style with Guerra de Titanes, a wild event packed with lucha chaos, celebrity moments, shocking alliances, and future-shaping outcomes. Corey Graves, JBL, and Konnan guided fans through the English commentary as the action unfolded.
La Parka & Octagón Jr. defeated Mr. Iguana & Niño Hamburguesa, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde, Bravo Americano & Rayo Americano
The show kicked off at full throttle with a four-team tag match featuring La Parka & Octagón Jr., Mr. Iguana & Niño Hamburguesa, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde, and Bravo Americano & Rayo Americano. From the opening bell, the bout was a nonstop sprint filled with dives, creative offense, and crowd-pleasing madness.
Standout moments included Iguana’s spinning headscissors, Wilde’s slingshot dive to the floor, Parka walking the ropes before launching himself outside, and Hamburguesa using his signature hamburger distraction to help Iguana score a big rana. The closing stretch saw Parka and Octagón hit a stereo Spanish Fly on Cruz Del Toro, followed by Octagón wiping everyone out with a tornillo. Parka sealed the win with a playful dance and slam, putting his team firmly in line for a future title opportunity.
After the match, Parka shared a wholesome moment dancing with a young fan—only for another masked Parka at ringside to reveal himself as boxing superstar Canelo Álvarez, drawing a huge reaction.
AAA Latin American Championship: El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. (c) defeated Ethan Page to retain the Title
El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. successfully defended the AAA Latin American Championship against Ethan Page, though not without drama. Page immediately leaned into his dirty tactics, even twisting Wagner’s mask to blind him and scoring a near-fall with a powerbomb.
Page appeared to steal the title after using a wrench behind the referee’s back, but Mr. Iguana rushed in to expose the cheating. Once the referee discovered the weapon, the decision was overturned and the match restarted. Wagner wasted no time, planting Page with the Wagner Driver to retain his championship decisively.
Carnival of Carnage: Psycho Circus & Pagano defeated The Wyatt Sicks
The “Carnival of Carnage” match between Psycho Circus & Pagano and The Wyatt Sicks was exactly as unhinged as advertised. The action began backstage in a twisted carnival setup, complete with surprise appearances from Mascarita Sagrada swinging a kendo stick and Pimpinela Escarlata distracting Joe Gacy with a kiss.
After Pagano was powerbombed through a table, the fight eventually spilled back to the ring with the Wyatts holding a numbers advantage. That changed when Pagano returned to even the odds. Psycho Clown fully embraced the madness, ripping off his own mask before chaos erupted around the ring. In the end, Psycho Clown drove Dexter Lumis through a table with the Psycho Driver to score the win.
AAA World Cruiserweight Championship: Laredo Kid (c) defeated Je’Von Evans and Jack Cartwheel to retain the title
Laredo Kid retained the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship in a jaw-dropping three-way match against Je’Von Evans and Jack Cartwheel. The bout felt like a highlight reel from start to finish, featuring aerial insanity, destroyers, massive dives, and lightning-fast counters.
The finish came when Laredo unveiled a never-before-seen Spanish Fly variation, dropping Cartwheel in spectacular fashion to keep his title in one of the night’s most memorable performances.
Natalya, Lola Vice & Faby Apache defeated Las Toxicas
Faby Apache teamed with Natalya and Lola Vice to defeat Flammer, La Hiedra, and Maravilla. The heels isolated Lola early, but a hot tag to Natalya shifted the momentum. The babyfaces landed a double Hart Attack before the match broke down into chaos. Faby ultimately pinned the women’s champion with a crisp bridging snap dragon suplex.
Hijo del Vikingo defeated Dragon Lee with help from Omos
Hijo del Vikingo defeated Dragon Lee in a heated battle that took a shocking turn. Dragon nearly had the match won after landing his finisher, but a downed referee changed everything. Vikingo resorted to a low blow, and then the real surprise arrived—Omos.
Dragon attacked the giant, only to be flattened by a massive powerbomb. Vikingo capitalized with a 450 splash to score the victory as Omos returned the referee to the ring. Afterward, Dorian Roldán appeared and announced the formation of El Ojo, officially aligning Vikingo and Omos as a new power faction in AAA.
Rey Mysterio & Rey Fenix defeated Dominik Mysterio & El Grande Americano
In the main event, Rey Mysterio and Rey Fénix defeated Dominik Mysterio and El Grande Americano in an emotionally charged tag match. The crowd loudly booed Dominik as he targeted his own father, even tearing at Rey’s mask during the closing moments.
Outside interference teased the finish, but Rey finally connected with the 619 and followed with a slingshot splash to pin his son, sending the fans home happy. After the match, Dominik stormed off alone with his titles, while Americano refused a babyface moment, leaving Rey, Fénix, and Penta confused but celebrating with the crowd.
The 26th annual AAA Guerra de Titanes streams free Saturday, December 20 at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT on the WWE YouTube channel, WWE Español YouTube channel, and Lucha Libre AAA YouTube channel from Arena Guadalajara.
Match Card:
Rey Mysterio & Rey Fenix vs. Dominik Mysterio & El Grande Americano
Carnival of Carnage: The Wyatt Sicks vs. Pagano & Los Psycho Circus (Psycho Clown, Dave the Clown & Murder Clown)
AAA Latin American Championship: El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. (c) vs. Ethan Page
AAA World Cruiserweight Championship: Laredo Kid (c) vs. Je’Von Evans vs. Jack Cartwheel
Dragon Lee vs. El Hijo del Vikingo
Natalya, Lola Vice & Faby Apache vs. Las Tóxicas
Fatal Four-Way Tag: Los Americanos vs. Mr. Iguana & Niño Hamburguesa vs. La Parka & Octagón Jr. vs. LWO
AEW Collision ‘Holiday Bash’ on TNT and HBO MAX today at 2:30 PM Eastern. This is part two of Collision as it was taped while AEW was in England on Wednesday.
Continental Classic Gold League: Kazuchika Okada vs Kevin Knight
Continental Classic Gold League: Speedball Mike Bailey vs Jungle Jack Perry
Mercedes Moné Undisputed British Women’s Championship Open Challenge
Wrestling News Blog 